Our Town 2017 NOV-DEC (High Springs & Alachua)

RECIPE WONDERS: HOLIDAY FIXIN’S OPERATION CONE HOBBIT HOUSE BREAD OF THE MIGHTY

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 | VOL. 15 ISSUE 06

Kindness, Charity & Giving Back Meet Retired USAF MSgt Matthew Burke, founder and executive director of 10 CAN, a faith-based nonprofit for military and first responder families, aims to enrich the lives of children and youths.

HIGH SPRINGS & ALACHUA EDITION

S! A Miracle Red Ruffed

PLU

Lemur Named Juno

Bringing People and Dogs Together in Pawsitive Ways Thrifty Gift Ideas Santa’s Shop in Haile Village & more!

Boots on the Roof With a focus on veterans, this program provides roofs for local families who otherwise could not afford the cost.

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As we purchase more things online, more cardboard boxes are being delivered to our doors.

When you place those broken down boxes into your orange recycling bins, they can be turned into containers for breakfast cereal or kids toys or anything that uses pasteboard packaging. So when you say goodbye to your old cardboard boxes, you’re really saying, “See you at the grocery store.”

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CONTENTS

N OV EM B ER/ D ECEM B ER 2017

G R E AT E R A L A C H U A C O U N T Y

| V O L . 1 5 | N O. 0 6

IN THIS ISSUE >> WE HIGHLIGHT THE MANY WAYS COMMUNITY MEMBERS ARE GIVING BACK. LEARN HOW PAYING IT FORWARD ACTUALLY PAYS YOU BACK WITH INCREASED LONGEVITY, HEART HEALTH AND MORE. AND ENJOY SOME RECIPE WONDERS TO ADD TO YOUR HOLIDAY FEASTS, AS WELL AS THRIFTY WAYS TO GIFT YOUR LOVED ONES THIS SEASON WITH PRESENTS STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART! C O V E R P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y K R I S T I N KOZ E L S K Y.

FEATURE STORIES 54

THE POWER OF GAMING Meet Heath Locklear, a high school student who founded Charity Nerds – a nonprofit that donates video game equipment to children in need.

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HONOR, REVIVE & GROW 10 Can, a faith-based nonprofit for military and first responder families, aims to enrich the lives of children and youths.

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FOOD FOR THE SOUL Bread of the Mighty Food Bank celebrated its 30th anniversary doing exactly what our community needed most – providing relief for the hungry during and after Hurricane Irma.

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SUBTERRANEAN SPLENDOR How a High Springs couple brought a once-dying dwelling back to life. Now it’s affectionately known as the “Hobbit House.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

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CONTENTS

N OV EM B ER/ D ECEM B ER 2017

COLUMNS

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THRIFTY GIFTS Give more by shopping smart! Ways to save this holiday season with gifts that still come straight from the heart.

A MIRACLE NAMED JUNO The Carson Springs Wildlife Foundation springs into action, giving 24/7 care to a newborn lemur abandoned at birth.

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RECIPE WONDERS Enjoy the unique tastes of fall and winter with these special family recipes for pumpkin bread, baked squash and a broccoli casserole to swoon over!

GRACE MARKETPLACE Working with individuals to better their lives beyond just the basic necessities, helping them on a path towards a selfsustaining future.

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CHICKEN SOUP Since she was a teenager, Connie Biddle Morrison loved to write, she kept journals, wrote newsletters and personal letters.

Now one of her stories is published in the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series.

GIVING BACK Spotlight on a few local charities that lend a helping hand to those who need it most.

124 FARM TALES

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REVIEWS

40 EMBRACING LIFE

by Donna Bonnell

42

FUREVER FRIENDS Spotlight on Rescue Animals

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NAKED SALSA

by Crystal Henry

136 HEALTHY EDGE

by Kendra Siler-Marsiglio

36 THE ACT OF GIVING Giving back can pay you in return with increased longevity, reduced stress, heart health and more!

44 A PAWSITIVE CAUSE Who’s a good boy? Learn about three charities dedicated to helping our four-legged canine friends

76 O FOR A MUSE OF FIRE! The University of Florida’s Constans Theatre celebrates 50 years.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

BOOTS ON THE ROOF With a focus on veterans, this program provides roofs for local families who otherwise could not afford the cost.

by Mother Hen

86 READING CORNER

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

116 GATE CRASHING 130 MARC WOODSTUFF Driven by his family and his faith, this local leader strives to be an example for his children and his community — proving that a life of giving is the real good stuff.

138 SANTA’S SHOP A Gainesville couple creates Christmas Magic for the community by using 3D printing & some imagination to design a robotic window display in Haile Village.–

by Brian “Krash” Kruger

INFORMATION 95 2017 Food Fest 100 Taste of the Town 110 Community Calendar The articles printed in Our Town do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Tower Publications, Inc. or their editorial staff. Our Town Magazine endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we can not be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Our Town Magazine reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. All rights reserved. © 2017 Tower Publications, Inc.

Caring for our community s most precious gifts Board certified, University of Florida trained Pediatricians with over 20 years of experience.

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PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Hank McAfee

Anthony B. Agrios, MD Joseph S. Iobst, MD Jean C. Cook, MD Nicole Scogin, MD Shelley Russell, ARNP, CNM Julie Rischar, ARNP, CNM Kristen Cook, ARNP, CNM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ericka Winterrowd editor@towerpublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jordan Albright, Kaitlin Applegate, Gabrielle Calise, Cameron Cobb, Crystal Henry, Monica Humphries, Cecilia Lemus, Stephanie Richards, Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kristin Kozelsky ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com Helen Mincey helen@towerpublications.com Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com INTERN Cameron Cobb

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS If you would like us to publicize an event in the greater Gainesville area, send information by the 1st day of the month prior to the next issue.

For example, submissions for the March/April issue are due by February 1. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available.

Take care

of you.

AllAboutWomenMD.com • 352.331.3332 Helping You Live A Healthy Lifestyle!

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We want to hear from you. Send your letters to the attention of the editor at 4400 NW 36th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32606 or editor@ towerpublications.com. Letters must be signed and include a phone number in the event we need to contact you. (Your phone number will not be published.)

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY TOWER PUBLICATIONS, INC. REPRODUCTION BY ANY MEANS OF THE WHOLE OR PART OF OUR TOWN WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE EDITORIAL PAGES DO NOT IMPLY OUR ENDORSEMENT. WE WELCOME YOUR PRODUCT NEWS. INCLUDE PRICES, PHOTOS AND DIGITAL FILES WITH YOUR PRESS RELEASE. PLEASE FORWARD PRODUCT SAMPLES AND MEDIA KITS TO REVIEWS EDITOR, OUR TOWN MAGAZINE, 4400 NW 36TH AVENUE, GAINESVILLE, FL 32606. WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNSOLICITED PRODUCT SAMPLES.

A Publication of Tower Publications, Inc. 4400 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32606 phone: 352-372-5468 fax: 352-373-9178

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EDITOR ’ S LET TER

“

N OV EM B ER/ D ECEM B ER 2017

” -Ken Eats Gainesville

Daily Happy Hour & Weekend Brunch Take your palate on an intercontinental journey to exotic and wordly flavor, where exceptional ingredients are expertly fused into cocktails, delectable dishes, exquisite homemade desserts and delicious brunch.

Featuring

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The Spirit of New Beginnings Season’s Greetings, loyal readers! As your new editor, I am honored to carry on the tradition of bringing you stories about the fascinating people and important events that make our communities so wonderful. Speaking of wonderful, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! Can you believe the holidays are already upon us?

A monumental event recently happened in my family that definitely made time fly by. This past September my little niece, Mollie Briar, made her grand debut. And it’s pretty obvious she already has each one of us wrapped around her tiny pinky.

It was the first time I have ever witnessed the miracle of birth, and I have to say -- seeing that magical little being open her eyes for the first time made me feel like anything in this world could be possible and good.

With that same spirit in mind, this issue brings you uplifting information about the charitable deeds being done around our town. Of course there are far too many local individuals and organizations to name in one magazine.

However, just that fact alone makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Another topic on the (Thanksgiving) table is food! Enjoy three recipes that offer unique fixin’s to add to your holiday meals. Squash, anyone? When there’s butter, pecans, and brown sugar involved, I’m definitely in!

Lastly, I want to send heartfelt thanks to our previous editor and my dear friend Albert Isaac. Albert taught me so much and for that I am very grateful.

So with that said, here’s to our next big adventures! May the New Year bring each one of you prosperity, health and oodles of happiness.

Blessings to all!

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Ericka Winterrowd, Editor-In-Chief

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To protect and serve... ice cream! Representatives from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Mark Radio Group hand out ice cream at the truck unveiling this past summer.

The Human Side of the Badge

24910 West Newberry Rd., Newberry, FL

352-472-7100

This past summer, The Alachua County Sheriff ’s Office unveiled a new ice cream truck under Operation Cone, which stands for Community Outreach and Neighborhood Engagement.

“Our goal here, thanks to our great sponsors: Sunstate Federal Credit Union and The Mark Radio Group –- specifically Magic 101.3, is that we meet children right where they stand,” said Chris Sims, Sergeant Public Information Officer for the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.

He explained that the ice cream truck would go into neighborhoods where there may not be the best perception of law enforcement, or where children may not have had the best experience with police officers and begin to unveil the human side of the badge.

“We go out and we start with an ice cream,” he said. “And we begin with conversation and playing sports.”

The idea came about a year ago, after taking note of a similar initiative being done at the Boston Police Department. “We decided, hey, this would be such a great idea for our community,” Sims said. “We have a way to interact with our community in an insurmountable way.”

Sims said that they want to give children a “face to the name” and that zone deputies would be participating in the operation as well. “These are the deputies they interact

RedBarnHomeCenter.com 16 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

with every day,” he said. “And even when that bad situation may occur when we have to come into the neighborhood and take some kind of enforcement action, they’ll understand who we are and what we’re about.

They’ll realize we have a job to do, and they’re still going to love us where we are just as we love them where they are.”

Sims explained that the ice cream truck and everything else needed for Operation Cone was a donation. None of the operation is funded by county taxpayers. “There is no fee, this is all donated by community partners,” Sims said. “This ice cream is free. We’re not coming out to collect any money from you, we simply want your participation and your conversation.”

Sims said that they also have ladies working with them who will be offering to do hair and nails for kids as well. “So the great thing is maybe some of these young folks who may be a little mischievous -- they’ll come hang out with us instead of going and doing things they shouldn’t do,” he said.

Since ice cream is a big hit for most children, Sims believes it will be a great way to open the door for starting conversation and building relationships.

“We’re going to meet them wherever they are,” he said. “And we’re going to show them the human side of the badge that is commonly worn by law enforcement.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

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CONTRIBUTOR S

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

N OV EM B ER/ D ECEM B ER 2017

MONICA HUMPHRIES is a senior journalism student at the University of Florida. Beyond writing, she loves going to local concerts, traveling the world and exploring all Gainesville has to offer. monicamh@centurylink.net

CAMERON COBB is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida as well as an Air Force veteran. She loves traveling, writing, ballet and all animals (her favorite being her rescue dog, Maggie). cameronacobb5@gmail.com

GABRIELLE CALISE is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida and freelance writer.

In her spare time she enjoys collecting vinyl records, taking photographs and watching movies. gcalise@ufl.edu

BRIAN “KRASH” KRUGER is a writer, musician and a graduate of the UF College of Law. He has played in some 17 or so local bands, playing most every Gainesville venue friendly to original music (and some not so friendly). bkrashpad@yahoo.com

CRYSTAL HENRY is a freelance writer and columnist born and raised in West Texas. She received her B.S. in Journalism in 2006 from the University of Florida. She is in love with the Florida landscape. ces03k@gmail.com

KAITLIN APPLEGATE is a recent Rock School graduate. In her spare time she enjoys creative writing and finding inspiration in unexpected places (in truth, mostly from Netflix). kaitlinapplegatewrites@gmail.com

CYNTHIA WONDERS WINTERROWD is an award-winning writer who was raised in Illinois and lives in Gainesville. She is proud to be a “Gator Mom” of three daughters, all UF graduates. Cynthia loves sharing family recipes that have been passed down in her mother’s handwritten cookbooks. recipewonders@gmail.com

STEPHANIE RICHARDS is a freelance writer and a native of suburban Chicago. She was the Story Editor for The Sturbridge Times Magazine before recently moving to Newberry from New England. She loves to exercise, volunteer and spend time with her family. sarichards7@gmail.com

CECILIA LEMUS is a freelance writer and junior journalism major at UF. In her free time she enjoys photographing animals, watching movies and trying different flavors of tea. lemusc26@ufl.edu

JORDAN ALBRIGHT loves to learn and explore. She is a fifthyear senior at UF pursuing two majors: dance and photojournalism; and three minors: business administration, entrepreneurship and theatre. Her passion is learning about your passion. jordanalbrightphotography@gmail.com

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THRIFTY GIFTS GIVING >> FIVE TIPS FOR SENSIBLE GIFTS

W RIT TE N BY G A BRIE LLE C A LI S E

Five Ways to Save this Holiday Season

W

hile the holiday season is filled with fun times, delicious meals and fond memories, it can also be one of the most financially stressful periods of the year. From pricey plane tickets to visit faraway relatives to parties, gifts, food and other costs, the financial pitfalls can seem endless.

Gift-giving is one of the priciest expenses of the holiday season. According to a 2016 Gallup poll, Americans anticipated spending $785 on Christmas gifts. However, with a little planning, you can still bestow thoughtful gifts on your loved ones without shelling out too much cash.

1.

STRATEGIZE

Before even stepping foot in a store, make a list of people to shop for. Set a budget and stick to it. It is also helpful to see what money is already lying around.

Compile credit card reward points, coupons sitting in your mailbox or email inbox, or old unused gift cards and use those up first.

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GIVING >> FIVE TIPS FOR SENSIBLE GIFTS

2. DO IT YOURSELF Spending a few hours preparing homemade goodies can be a fun and affordable way to knock several people off your gift list at once. After all, who can say no to edible treats? Fruit butters, candies, or salsa can be made in large batches and given as sweet gifts. Self-care products are also easy to make and have a big wow factor, from sweet-smelling soaps to hand scrubs and bath bombs. Search the internet for recipes and tutorials, and buy supplies in bulk to save money.

The key to pulling off DIY gifts is to package everything well. Mason jars and some ribbon or paint can go a long way when it comes to making the gift look thoughtfully created instead of slapped together. Don’t forget to print out labels from the internet or handwrite a thoughtful note.

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by

3. AVOID THE MALL Discount stores such as Ross, T.J. Maxx or Marshalls are great places to pick out stocking stuffers like fuzzy socks, mugs, or pretty candles for a fraction of the price.

You can even make your own gift basket using cheaper goodies found at these stores instead of ordering a pricey pre-made one.

Small businesses and farmer’s markets can also be great places to pick out affordable, locally-made items. You will also encounter more unusual finds in these places — think anything from craft beer made right here in town to jewelry and trinkets handmade by local artisans.

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GIVING >> FIVE TIPS FOR SENSIBLE GIFTS

Kristen Hagopian, who hosts the radio program, “The Brilliant Frugal Living Show,” says you also can find treasures at your local thrift stores.

Sometimes you’ll run across new pieces with the tags still on them.

4. UPCYCLE For an affordable, fun, and eco-friendly gift-giving experience, try upcycling. Gently used clothing, books, handbags and furniture can all make lovely gifts. Scouring yard sales and antique shops can be a great way to find cheap, gently used items that can easily be transformed with a little bit of paint or polish.

5. FIND DIGITAL DEALS Online shopping is an easy way to tackle shopping during an already hectic holiday season, but the convenience doesn’t have to come at a price.

Download the browser extension “Honey” to track the prices of items on Amazon. The extension tells users the best time to buy items based on price history. Honey also automatically finds and uploads coupon codes for online shopping sites.

The website RetailMeNot.com is also helpful for saving money online. The site tracks trending deals around the web and allows users to search for coupon codes and promotions by store.

Using creative strategies to save money on gifts can even be a fun way to spend time with loved ones. With a little bit of planning, there are many ways to make money stretch further while still dazzling the gift recipients. Try these tips this holiday season — you might even start using them year round.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

If visiting stores in-person is too time consuming, try looking online for deals. Craigslist and “Free and For Sale” group pages on Facebook are easy ways to see what people in the area are selling. An app called “letgo” also lets users swipe through items for sale in the area.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the

Merchants of High Springs

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RECIPE SERIES >> THANKFULL

THANKFULL

Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd ’s

RECIPE WONDERS FOOD ST Y LING & PHOTOGR A PH Y BY ERICK A WINTER ROWD

HOLIDAY FIXIN ’ S

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all and winter are my most favorite times of the year. I just love when the crisp, cool air arrives to give us respite from the heat and humidity of summer. As soon as the thermometer dips below the 90s here in Florida, I start thinking about my favorite cool weather recipes! These are my staples for the holiday menus, as well as any dinner table.

First up I have included my mother’s version of pumpkin bread. Always moist and topped off with slivered almonds, it’s a hit with everyone. She would have loaves made up and wrapped in cellophane during the holidays for any guest who might stop in unexpectedly. Knowing this, I’m sure she had a few extra visitors who dropped by especially hoping for a loaf of Ronelva’s pumpkin bread. It’s that good!

Also in this article is my mother’s take on roasting squash in the oven. You readers probably remember that Ronelva was a farmer’s daughter/wife who enjoyed the country life and eating healthy homegrown food. As an adult, a favorite side job of hers was working at a local farmer’s market in the fall. There she could

revel at the beauty of nature’s harvest. The colors of the various varieties of squash, pumpkins and Indian corn were favorites of hers. During her hours at the market, she would ponder the different vegetables and come up with ideas on how to prepare them for a new tasty treat. Neighbors would stop by to visit with her and they would share recipe ideas with one another. Food and its preparation was a passion of hers.

Lastly, I have added a favorite recipe of mine for a broccoli casserole. It dates back to the early 70s when I wanted to impress my new husband with my cooking abilities. I think it worked, as we are still together after nearly 44 years. This recipe may be a little different than one you have tried before, as it has water chestnuts layered in it to give an unexpected but satisfying “crunch.” Even your most picky vegetable eater is sure to like this one!

Nothing makes a home feel more welcoming than something home cooked. The aromas wafting from your kitchen will soon have your family asking, “Mmm. What smells so good?” So what are you waiting for? Let’s get your oven pre-heating while we whip up these delicious holiday fixin’s! Because… there’s nothin’ like home cookin’.

CYNTHIA WONDERS WINTERROWD IS AN AWARD-WINNING WRITER WHO WAS RAISED IN ILLINOIS AND LIVES IN GAINESVILLE. SHE IS PROUD TO BE A “GATOR MOM” OF THREE DAUGHTERS, ALL UF GRADUATES. CYNTHIA LOVES SHARING FAMILY RECIPES THAT HAVE BEEN PASSED DOWN IN HER MOTHER’S HANDWRITTEN COOKBOOKS. recipewonders@gmail.com

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RONELVA’S PUMPKIN BREAD When testing breads or cakes/cupcakes for doneness, inserting a toothpick into the center of the item will indicate if it is ready.

If it is finished baking, the toothpick will come out clean. However, if you need a few more minutes of baking you will know because the wet batter will adhere to the wood toothpick.

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/ 2 cup white sugar 1/ cup vegetable oil 2 2 eggs 1 cup canned pumpkin 1/ teaspoon cinnamon 2 1/ teaspoon cloves 2 1/ teaspoon nutmeg 2 1/ teaspoon salt 2 1 2/ 3 cup sifted all-purpose flour 1/ teaspoon 4 baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup water slivered almonds METHOD:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cream the sugar, oil and eggs. Add the pumpkin, spices and salt.

Blend well. Next, mix the baking powder and baking soda with the flour. Add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture alternately with the water, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix well after each addition. Put combined mixture into greased and floured loaf pans. Sprinkle a line of slivered almonds along the top of the batter.

Bake for one hour, or until it tests done with an inserted toothpick.

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RONELVA’S BAKED SQUASH INGREDIENTS:

Squash: any size or number, variety of your choice (usually Turban, Buttercup or Acorn) 1 cup brown sugar – more or less, depending upon the number of squash you are using 1 stick butter (yes, use the real thing – not margarine) 1 sweet onion, cut up (depending on how many squash you are baking, you may use less) 1/ cup chopped walnuts 2 (more or less – to taste)

with the recipe’s ingredients.

For an Acorn squash I cut it lengthwise, following the same instructions above.

CYNTHIA’S BROCCOLI CASSEROLE To keep the casserole from becoming watery I strain the cooked broccoli well, then place on folded paper towels to absorb even more of the water before putting in the baking dish. I also do the same with the water chestnuts after draining away the water they were canned in.

When adding the ingredients you begin with a base of the brown sugar. On top of this, place a tablespoon of butter with the onions and chopped nuts. Sprinkle a little more brown sugar on top and add a few more tablespoons of butter.

INGREDIENTS: METHOD:

Select a nice sized squash at the produce department of your grocery store or your local farmer’s market. Rinse it well at your kitchen sink to remove any soil that may still be attached. Carefully use a strong, sharp kitchen knife to open the squash (similar to cutting open a pumpkin for a jack-o’-lantern). For Buttercup and Turban squash I set it on a cutting board with the bottom side down and the “bumpy” top of the squash facing upwards. At the base of the bumpy top, I start cutting in a circular pattern, just like you do for the top of your Halloween pumpkin. You must be extremely careful that you have control of the knife at all times so that it doesn’t slip and cut your hand. Once this is done, lift up the top of the squash and use a large spoon to clean out the seeds and stringy insides. You are left with a natural “bowl” to fill

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Line a baking sheet with foil and nestle the squash on the pan with crumpled foil wrapped around it to keep it standing upright. Bake for about an hour in a preheated oven at 425 degrees. Test for doneness by inserting a table knife into the deepest part of the squash. The knife should slide in easily.

When the squash is done, remove and set it on the top of your stove. After it sits for about five minutes, take a large fork to fluff up the baked squash and allow the brown sugar and butter mixture to permeate the entire vegetable. You can remove the “meat” of the baked squash into a serving dish, or place the entire squash on a serving dish with the “bowl” nature gave it. This is especially appealing when serving a baked Turban squash. A treat for the eye as well as the palate.

3 1 1 1 1 1

packages frozen chopped broccoli can water chestnuts (sliced and drained) cup Velveeta (cut into small cubes) can cream of mushroom soup small can (2/3 cup) evaporated milk can French onion rings

METHOD:

Cook broccoli about four minutes. Drain well and put in a three quart baking dish.

Add water chestnuts. Sprinkle cheese over this. Then combine the soup and canned milk in a small mixing bowl. Pour this over all. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 25 minutes. Remove and arrange onion rings on top and bake for another 10 minutes. Serves 6-8.

‘Tis the season to start cooking! Happy Holidays from my kitchen to yours…

RECIPE SERIES >> THANKFULL

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LITERATURE >> CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL

SOUL FOOD

CONNIE BIDDLE MORRISON

Books for a Benefit STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY CECILI A LEM US

Since she was a teenager, Connie Biddle Morrison loved to write, she kept journals, wrote newsletters and personal letters.

Years later, Connie still finds herself writing and reading in her spare time.

One of Morrison’s short stories “The Cat That Wouldn’t Hunt,” was published in “Chicken Soup For the Soul: The Cat Really Did That?” The story is about a stray cat who entered the Morrison family and earned the name “Fetcher” for his ability to fetch pecans that rolled across the floor. But, when the Morrison family tried to catch a loose mouse in the house, Fetcher did everything except hunt.

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The mouse haunted the house in the evenings as it hid in the piano and struck keys. At first, the piano noises would wake up the Morrisons late at night, but eventually they strategized a plan to catch the pest. Eventually, the mouse was caught by a peanut butter and bacon trap.

As for Fetcher, he continued chasing pecans and never showed any interest in rodents.

Morrison said in a phone interview that Fetcher was a curious and adventurous cat by nature. At the time Fetcher was an outdoor cat and he turned into a bully, he would go next door and eat the cat food in the garage, Morrison said. She did everything to keep Fetcher in the yard, but Fetcher liked to roam and he finally disappeared one day. She searched the neighborhood but never found him.

Morrison said the story was one she had written several years ago. She was scrolling through the internet back in January when she came across topics on the Chicken Soup website.

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LITERATURE >> CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL

Chicken Soup for the Soul is donating royalties from this book to American Humane. The effort is part of the company’s widespread support for animal shelters and pet adoption.

At the age of 73, Morrison lives with her striped cat, Mopsy, in a quaint neighborhood in Gainesville. Just like Fetcher, Mopsy wandered through the neighborhood as a kitten and ended up at the Morrison household.

“That light bulb went off as I remembered a story I had written about a cat we had many years ago that fit one of the topics, a cat that wasn’t the least bit interested in chasing a mouse. I dug it out, spruced it up a little, and hit the send button,” she wrote in an email.

The lighthearted and quirky story fits right in with the collection of 100 other feline stories in this series of Chicken Soup for the Soul stories. Royalties from the book sales will be donated to American Humane, an animal welfare organization that helps care for shelter animals and promotes adoption.

The book features other stories, including one of a cat that survived through being a load of laundry in a dryer and another cat that only answered to the sound of music.

Morrison intends on donating part of the check she was 32 |

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given to the Alachua County Humane Society. “I think that’s great, cat or animal lovers will be buying this book,” she said.

The book can be found online and at Barnes and Noble.

Originally from the eastern shore of Delaware, the Morrison family, including Connie, her husband and two children, moved to Gainesville in the late 1980s with the intention of reconnecting with family in Florida for some time. They ended up liking Gainesville so much that they permanently moved. Morrison worked as a book keeper for a real estate developer until her retirement in the late 1990s.

It was after her retirement that Morrison began to take writing seriously. In 2008, she joined an online community of writers that posted their work. And in 2013, after taking a writing course at the public library, Morrison began to write a memoir.

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“That resulted in several childhood short stories which seemed to grow and grow. I’m at the point now of making sense of it all so a reader doesn’t get bored with my sort of ordinary life, looking for a theme, bridging some stories together, and leaving the reader with that all-important take-away,” she said.

Morrison said her influences include Jane Austin and the Brontë sisters. “I think I have started only one or two books in my life that I haven’t finished. That’s not to say I liked them all, but I feel a sort of responsibility to read once I have chosen so I try to choose carefully. I especially like historical novels and mysteries.”

At the age of 73, Morrison lives with her striped cat, Mopsy, in a quaint neighborhood in Gainesville. Just like Fetcher, Mopsy wandered through the neighborhood as a kitten and ended up at the Morrison household.

Mopsy is very independent, she lets her know when she wants to eat and she wakes Morrison up sometimes up to three times at night. “She’s the boss and most cats are the boss.”

Morrison also spends her time writing and painting watercolors and acrylics. She is also a member of the Gainesville Writers Alliance, she said it has been a great way of meeting other local authors and a way to bounce ideas off each other.

“It’s amazing the stories that people write that you can connect too,” she said.

“It’s very nice to be with a group of people that have so much in common.”

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GENEROSITY >> FIVE BENEFITS OF GIVING

REACHING OUT

The Act of Giving Five Ways that Generosity Pays You Back W R I T T E N B Y C R Y S TA L H E N R Y

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lmost every classic holiday movie has undercurrents that encourage generosity. But the old adage “to give is far better than to receive” is more than a Hallmark movie tagline. There is actual scientific research that the act of giving is good for your health. Altruism is defined as giving without expecting anything in return, however new studies show that the pure intention to give without receiving is actually the most beneficial type of philanthropy. Here are the top five ways that it pays to be generous.

Work Perks

Heal the World

One of the best places for generosity is at work.

Not only does it build a sense of community, but according to a study at the University of WisconsinMadison, employees who help their co-workers are more committed to their jobs and are happier at work than their colleagues. The researchers found that being altruistic wasn’t about appearing better to other people, but instead it’s a healthy psychological reward system. We feel happy when we’re making others happy.

Giving to others is just plain better for society.

Holding the door for someone might just inspire them to hold it for the next person. And that person may be inspired to pay for someone else’s groceries, until a snowball of kindness rolls through town. In 2014, more than 750 people paid for a stranger’s coffee in a Starbucks pay-it-forward chain. The idea is that kindness is contagious.

Dr. Donald O. Clifton wrote a book called “How Full Is Your Bucket? Positive Strategies for Work

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A study in the International Journal of Psychophysiology showed that people who gave social support to their friends had lower blood pressure than those who didn’t.

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In 2014, more than 750 people paid for a stranger’s coffee in a Starbucks pay-it-forward chain.

and Life” with his grandson, Tom Rath. The book is based on the idea that people have an invisible reservoir that represents their mental and emotional self. Their book was a bestseller, and in the 1970s a psychologist named John E. Valusek talked about bucket filling and dipping in order to help explain the effects of human behavior. “How we feel and how we will behave at any given moment is dependent upon how much or how little we have in our buckets,” he explained in his writings.

The idea is that we all have an invisible bucket that we draw from to deal with life’s ups and downs. A full bucket gives a sense of calm, happiness, patience and security. When someone smiles at you as they hold the door open, your bucket will fill up. But 38 |

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you can also fill your own bucket by doing something kind for someone else. A full bucket is necessary to deal with the ups and downs of life.

An empty bucket is void of positive thoughts or feelings.

Bucket dipping happens when you say or do something unkind to someone or they say or do something unkind to you. Too many dips from your bucket will leave you feeling angry, sad and insecure.

Most of the world’s problems are the direct result of an empty bucket. But the bucket theory doesn’t leave your feelings up to the world. You can also fill your own bucket, and the bucket of those around you by being supportive and giving.

Brain Boost While mental health is a hot topic right now, people are talking about ways to help those suffering. But one of the biggest ways to help them is to find small ways they can help others. In a February 2016 study published in Psychosomatic Medicine, researchers found that those who give to others may benefit more than those on the receiving end. Participants in the study were asked about times they either gave or received social support. Both givers and receivers reported positive outcomes, but a series of MRI tests that explored how different areas of the brain were affected indicated that giving ultimately had greater brain benefits than receiving.

Lending a shoulder to cry on or helping someone in need was proven to reduce stress and activate greater reward and caregiving-related areas of the brain.

Happy Heart Helping others makes your heart happy in more ways than one. Aside from the warm fuzzy feeling you get from paying for someone else’s Starbucks, paying it forward may actually lower your blood pressure. A study in the Intl. Journal of Psychophysiology showed that people who gave social support to their friends had lower blood pressure than those who didn’t. Interestingly, those people also reported that they received greater support from friends as well.

Live Longer A study by Michael J. Poulin, an assistant professor of psychology at the University at Buffalo, found that helping others not only reduces stress, but it may actually help you live longer. Stress and social isolation are significant predictors of how long you’ll be around. But so far, research wasn’t able to show that receiving support in stressful situations helps improve mortality. In this study, researchers sought to find out if helping others would also benefit the people who were doing the helping. They found that when dealing with their own stressful situations, the people who had helped others in the past year tend to live longer than those who hadn’t.

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COLUMN

DONNA BONNELL’S

Embracing Life WORLD KINDNESS DAY

DONNA BONNELL BECAME THE AUTHOR OF HER COLUMN, EMBRACING LIFE, MORE THAN A DECADE AGO. SHE SHARES HER PERSONAL CHALLENGES AND VICTORIES WITH THE GOAL OF INSPIRING HER READERS TO ANALYZE WHY THINGS HAPPEN IN THEIR OWN LIVES. bonneldj@gmail.com

THE 14TH DALAI LAMA HELPED ME SETTLE A DILEMMA THAT I STRUGGLED WITH FOR A LONG TIME.

H

is quote, “Our prime purpose in life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.”

Regular readers know my desire to research and analyze ideas, thoughts or theories. This particular quest began after my job was terminated. During an impromptu meeting, I received dreadful news. After 17 years of documented stellar service, the request of a newly-hired official (with his own agenda) was granted.

An admirable administrator, aware of my strong work ethic and impeccable moral values, volunteered to participate in that gut-wrenching conference. She knew my heart would be broken and my positive approach to life (temporarily) shattered. I left that life-changing devastating event with one small shred of comfort – her final statement. She said, “Don’t worry, Donna, karma will prevail.”

Karma? Like many folks, I considered karma a generic term.

Synonymous, it seemed, to the proverb, ‘What goes around comes around.’ Therefore, her kind comment put a bandage on my raw wound and I began to heal.

Since forgiving is part of the recovery process, I turned to a highly recommended movie for insight – “The Shack.” Yes, it helped, but the film’s plot strongly suggested that karma does not exist in Christianity. When our church’s minister confirmed my interpretation, the band aid protecting my psyche was ripped off. A sharp sting permeated my entire being, which propelled my proverbial pursuit to understand karma into high gear.

The idea of karma differs depending on religion. Dalai Lamas are Tibetan Buddhists who believe in karma and reincarnation.

Karma is defined as action driven by intention; which leads to future consequences. A karmic reaction (good or bad) may manifest in this lifetime or in a future life.

Christians do not believe in reincarnation, which is why karma is not a factor. Yet, the New Testament, 2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

I was completely confused, as were many of my friends. So,

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I gave up looking for a clear cut concise answer and waited for the Universe to deliver a message.

Along came Hurricane Irma. God answered my prayers for answers in a huge way. Irma affected millions of people. While some became greedy and/or impatient, most folks exuded compassion. Shelters for evacuees fleeing Irma’s wrath were set up all over the state.

Locally, a plea was publicized for donations of bedding.

Evacuees ‘hunkering down’ needed blankets, sleeping bags, sheets, etc. Valerie, a kind-hearted friend, suggested we go to K-mart to purchase pillows. The store manager immediately reduced the price so that we were able to buy everything they had in stock.

We were overwhelmed by his generosity and the community’s quick response for assistance. Within hours, shelters received a surplus of supplies. Valerie posted a shout-out on Facebook that captured my attention and possibly Irma’s intended lesson.

Her comment was, “Kindness is easy!”

Kindness! What a seemingly simple concept! Kindness is considered a behavior. Individuals who portray kindness have a pleasant tender disposition and a charitable spirit. In catastrophic situations, as Hurricane Irma, kindness is contagious. Perhaps when persons without a kind persona face their own mortality, their souls absorb the positive vibes and embrace goodness.

Everything happens for a reason, even challenges. Both the loss of my job and Hurricane Irma led me to The Law of Cause and Effect. It states that whatever you send into the Universe comes back. It is powerful and like a boomerang. In other words, if we project kindness, it multiplies and returns. If we throw out negativity, that is exactly what we get back. Ralph Waldo Emerson called this, “The Law of Laws.”

My conclusion! A specific religious belief is immaterial. The bottom line is that individuals who contribute positive energy, receive goodness in return. Those disseminating detrimental energy, will receive the same. Maybe not immediately, but it will come.

Prior to the holidays, let’s celebrate World Kindness Day on November 13. It is a day promoting universal unity and kindness regardless of boundaries, race or religion. Can you think of a better way to kick-start the holiday season?

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SPOTLIGHT

RESCUE ANIMAL ADOPTIONS

Furever Friends SALEM & EMILY

FUREVER FRIENDS IS A RECURRING PROFILE THAT FEATURES A LOCAL RESCUE ANIMAL AND THEIR OWNER, WRITTEN FROM THE ADOPTED PET’S “POINT OF VIEW.” NOMINATE YOURSELF OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW FOR OUR NEXT RESCUED PET PROFILE! CONTACT: EDITOR@TOWERPUBLICATIONS.COM.

Hi everyone! I’m Salem — a frisky feline with a love for curiosity, cuddles and catnip.

I was brought to the Alachua County Humane Society shortly after being born on June 11, but my life truly began Sept. 1 when my mom, Emily Reynolds, rescued me.

My mom is a full-time nanny and an avid animal lover, which is why she actively volunteers with the ACHS. When she first visited me in the shelter’s kitten room, I wasted no time in showing off my agility skills by pouncing into arms for a snuggly embrace. My mom said it didn’t take long to decide to adopt me after she instantly fell in love (and I mean, look at those eyes, can you blame her?!).

When my mom brought me home, I was so excited to start exploring my kingdom! But before the adventures could begin, I had to get acquainted with my two new siblings — another kitten like myself named Kida and a huge husky named Roxy. They’re the greatest; Kida loves to wrestle with me (sometimes I even let her win), and Roxy’s the most purrfect cuddle buddy — it almost makes up for the dog smell!

Some of my favorite activities include climbing to the top of Cat Tree Meowtain, going for rides in the car with my mom, and hunting throughout the house for all sorts of hiding places and toys. My mom has tons of these rolls of paper, and when she’s done with them, I get to play with the cardboard tubes!

Crazy how she just gives the best part away.

I pawsitively love meeting new people (more people means more cuddles!), though I’m pretty partial to my mom. In fact, the 42 |

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most anticipated part of my day is getting to greet her by the front door every time she comes home (and not just because I know she keeps treats stashed in her pockets). If she ever seems sad, I’m always happy to offer extra comfort by cradling up to her neck.

As the fun-filled days come to their ends and it’s time for bed, I make sure to sleep right on my mom’s face so she stays warm and cozy enough. I don’t even get all that annoyed whenever she wakes up and has to move me in the middle of the night.

My mom said she recommends adoption because every animal deserves to have a home, and I sure got lucky that she

Emily and Salem snuggling together — one of their favorite activities to do after Emily adopted the cuddly kitten in September.

chose me! I’m so thankful for her and for all the volunteers and staff at the ACHS who showered me with lots of love and attention and continue to do so for my many feline friends and canine companions still there. I miss them lots, but I can’t wait until they find their furever homes, too!

Thanks Salem and Emily for sharing your story! To find out about other amazing animals available for adoption or how to get involved with volunteering, visit: www.alachuahumane.org or call 352-373-5855.

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ANIMALS >> CHARITIES FOR DOGS & PEOPLE

HAPPY TAILS

Pawsitive Thinking Charities Dedicated to Helping our Four-Legged Canine Friends W RIT TE N BY C A MERON COBB

O

ver three million dogs nationwide end up in shelters annually, according to aspca.org. And for some, it’s the only home they’ve ever had. For many others, it’s the only home they’ll ever have. Thankfully, there are many local ways to get involved in helping man’s best friend.

Learn about a few “pawesome” canine charities around town.

Pets and Patriots Foundation Who rescued who? Times two!

By finding a home for a shelter dog all the while easing if not eliminating the suffering of a veteran diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, the Pets and Patriots Foundation works to save two lives 44 |

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at once. With the organization’s mission to “train dogs to become PTSD service dogs for veterans” (according to the organization’s website), this nonprofit helps match vets with life-changing pets.

Depending on the era, PTSD affects anywhere from 10 to 30 percent of veterans, according to ptsd. va.gov. While some veterans seek the organization’s assistance with training a dog they already have, many of the service pups are saved from shelters and then trained by qualified members of the organization before being donated to veterans in need.

Maintaining a focus on assisting without discrimination, well-mannered dogs of any size, shape and breed are evaluated and, upon program approval, undergo extensive training. These sessions include teaching the dogs behavioral basics and the specific needs of the veteran receiving the animal. All

According to the organization’s website, roughly 30 percent of post-9/11 veterans treated at VA medical facilities have screened positive for PTSD. Medications may be helpful, but often lead to a host of crippling side effects. A service dog can often mediate symptoms of PTSD far better than medications.

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ANIMALS >> CHARITIES FOR DOGS & PEOPLE

As a service dog from this organization, the animal will help a veteran struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Though the specific symptoms can differ from veteran to veteran, they may include hypersensitivity to sights and/or sounds, anxiety, irritability, feelings of panic and more.

training is in accordance with the set standards

by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) and International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP), according to the organization’s website. If a dog is unable to graduate the training program, he or she is put up for adoption as a pet dog instead of a working service animal.

Along with a dedication to saving both dogs and veterans suffering in their current situation, the organization advocates for spaying and neutering pets in hopes to decrease the number of animals that wind up in shelters. The organization promotes this by offering incentives and providing services like veterinary appointment transportation, covering associated copays and more. Donations are used in all sorts of ways, from funding accepted dogs’ adoption fees to covering equipment and training costs, and even fully sponsoring a PTSD dog for a veteran in need. petsandpatriotsfoundation.org petsandpatriotsfoundation@gmail.com 46 |

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Olivia’s mom Caroline (immediate left) is one of the many adopters who has become a whole-hearted advocate for the breed after falling in love with one pit bull in particular.

Plenty of Pit Bulls Because punishing those for simply existing is just plain “pit-iful.”

In 2014, a chart displayed pit bulls as making up over one-third of the number of dogs taken in to the 45 shelters referenced in this database, according to aspcapro.org. In the same set of data, pit bulls accounted for about 56 percent of all euthanasias, with the breed’s death toll of 25,000+ totaling more than the combined numbers of the following four top types of dogs featured in the chart.

On the pupside? The website refers to the same shelter information taken from the previous year’s database, with 2014 showing lower numbers and thus an improvement for pit bulls in relation to 2013. This breed may be more susceptible to stereotypes than others, but with organizations like Plenty of Pit Bills (POPB), hopefully both the statistics and pit bull prejudice overall will continue to decline.

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Plenty of Pit Bulls focuses on rescuing these kinds of dogs from shelters in both Alachua and other neighboring counties.

The breed-specific focus is due to the negative connotations wrongfully associated with pit bulls, subjecting them to increased chances of abuse, neglect and abandonment, according to the organization’s website. Along with showering these pups with lots of love and attention, POPB works to end breed discrimination through educational programs and community outreach.

Since first beginning with adoptions in 2012, the organization has assisted hundreds of these dogs in finding their forever homes. And with adoption events every Saturday alternating between Petco (6869 West Newberry Road) and Millhopper PetSmart (NW 16th Ave. at 43rd Street), there are certainly plenty of opportunities for anyone looking to pick their perfect pit! popb.org, gainesvillepitbulls@gmail.com

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ANIMALS >> CHARITIES FOR DOGS & PEOPLE

Paws on Parole Time in the doghouse can get a little “ruff.”

Paws on Parole is a partnership program between the Florida Department of Corrections Gainesville Work Camp and Alachua County Animal Services, according to the organization’s website. With an overall goal of increasing the Alachua County Animal Shelter’s adoption and retention rates, the program also provides inmates with the chance to gain knowledge in canine education and firsthand experience with dog training.

Dogs selected for the program are paired up with an approved inmate in the work camp, where they will then act as the dog’s handler for eight weeks and assist the animals in basic obedience training. Volunteer professionals supervise inmates throughout this period of time, giving them the opportunity to care for the dogs and help them achieve the official standards set by the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizens (CGC) program, according to the organization’s website.

Aside from just leading shelter dogs down the road towards obtaining “good manners at home and in the community,” this program provides inmates with the chance to serve some of their time by working to improve the lives and futures of these animals.

Upon completion of the training and then passing of the CGC test, Paws on Parole pooches are eligible for adoption and are fully vaccinated, microchipped, spayed/neutered and receive monthly heartworm prevention. With dozens of graduates, these proficient pups are ready to showcase their best behavior as “paw-abiding” citizens! pawsonparole.com heh@alachuacounty.us Whether it be multitudes of military mutts or a plethora of pits, there are countless ways to extend a helping hand (or paw) to these extraordinary companions!

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Anne Pantall (below) is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) with over 25 years of training and teaching experience. She is strongly committed to using only humane, force-free, positive-training methods that are based on the science of animal learning.

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Growing through

Gardening

By Christina Miller President, Millhopper Montessori School

“There is in the soul of a child an impenetrable secret that is gradually revealed as it develops.” — DR. MARIA MONTESSORI

t is developmentally appropriate for children to learn hands on and through their five senses. One of the most joyful ways is to plant seeds and watch them grow. Children are constantly drawn to smell, touch, and gather collections of leaves, seeds, flowers, and even insects. They are fascinated by the tiniest of things and watching a tiny seed gradually reveal itself as it grows provides a magical experience and can bring about a peace of mind.

Children as young as two years can and should have the opportunity to garden before they develop an aversion to nature. Often children are told not to touch something or put something in their mouths. All the attitudes that accompany the sanitizing trend have contributed to children being tactilely defensive. Many children today cannot tolerate putting their hands in paper machete or scooping seeds out of a pumpkin.

A garden is appropriate for all ages and a wonderful

I

family activity. It has many extensions for classrooms too.

One year for our 4th grade students we planted a variety of seeds and plants which tied in directly to our core subjects.

For example, when we studied Florida’s native Timucua people who used agricultural techniques to grow gourds for use as drinking vessels, students planted the same type of gourds in our class garden. This was one of our most exciting experiments, as the vines grew at an amazing pace and the giant fruit was something most students had never seen before. To connect with Spanish class we grew marigolds, which are the traditional flower of Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday to honor departed friends and family members. We used our marigolds to decorate the authentic altar we created in celebration of this holiday. Our gardening endeavors not only connected students with their core classes in a more meaningful way, but inspired them to learn more about plants and start gardens of their own.

As the weeks passed, our gardening time also gave us a chance to observe the changing seasons, the birds which frequent our schoolyard, and the types of trees and wildflowers that grow there. In a time when many children are focused on indoors activities, such as computer and video games, our students had a chance to experience the natural world in a more meaningful way. Rather than looking to nature and seeing woods, children can identify pine trees, oak trees, and native flowers. Rather than just seeing birds, children see more specifically robins, bluebirds, and others. In this way our gardening and exploration of the outdoors has served to enrich their world view.

352-375-6773 • 8505 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville • millhopper.com •

/millhoppermontessorischool NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

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SUNSTATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION’S

Community Connection SunState Federal Credit Union has been serving our community for over 60 years. Since the beginning we’ve always found ways to support some of the area’s most amazing charitable organizations.

Check out our Facebook page for more information and get involved!

Dreamer’s Foundation IMPROVING LIVES ONE EVENT AT A TIME Most of us remember our Senior Prom. That high school right of passage where women don gorgeous dresses and men wear fancy suits and bow ties. Almost all of us can think back to our proms and remember our dates, what we wore and even where we had dinner before the event.

Maybe you remember the theme, the decorations or the music you danced to. But for some, an event as common as prom just isn’t an option.

It was a 10-year dream for Wanda Jackson, founder of the Dreamer’s Foundation, to host a free, community-wide dance for the hundreds of intellectually challenged men and women living in group homes, ARC or other facilities in our area.

“There is no greater achievement than empowering intellectually challenged persons in our community and helping them with their dreams,” said Wanda recently. “Any opportunity where they can be a part of our community, and get out of the homes in which they spend most of their lives, provides them with a joy that is incredible to witness. Our annual gala event does this and so much more.”

The Dreamers Foundation was established almost eight years ago and is dedicated to enriching and strengthening the lives of the intellectually disabled community. As 52 |

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Wanda Jackson and her son, Dan Jackson Jr.

NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE CHARITY AS THE CHARITY OF THE MONTH AND GIVE THEM A CHANCE TO WIN $1000 FROM SUNSTATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION! Dreamer’s Foundation board of advisor’s and staff.

Visit the SSFCU Facebook page for more information.

a mother to an intellectually challenged son, Wanda learned quickly that help for people with intellectual challenges, or support for their families, wasn’t readily available. The Dreamer’s Foundation provides opportunities for people with disabilities in Alachua County by promoting the capabilities and talents of youth, adults, and senior citizens facing those challenges. As a volunteer organization, The Dreamer’s Foundation seeks to provide family and individual services in an effort to further develop interpersonal skills that will lead to an improved quality of life for the families involved.

“Our whole goal is to help people in need.

Through our events we are able to bring people together, give them a sense of community and most importantly, help them to live more fulfilling lives.”

“Our whole goal is to help people in need,” Wanda said. “Through our events we are able to bring people together, give them a sense of community and most importantly, help them to live more fulfilling lives.”

In addition to the annual “Prom” style event, Wanda and her team of volunteers hold other community events, all geared towards helping families and people in need. From an annual fashion show to the huge bake sale event held in November each year, the Dreamers Foundation depends on the generosity of area businesses and individuals to financially support the various programs the foundation offers. With no overhead costs, all of the donations raised each year go directly to furthering the mission and supporting their clients.

“Almost all of the money we raise goes right back towards the events we produce. Partners like SunState Federal Credit Union play such an important role in our ability to continue from year to year. They’ve always helped us when we needed them and we are so lucky to have them as a community partner.”

Wanda and her team are always looking for people who have the heart of a servant and the will to help others. Donations can be accepted by making a check payable to the Dreamer’s Foundation, Inc. and mailing it to 914 NW 16th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32601. If you’re interested in learning more about this amazing group or ways you can help, contact Wanda directly at 352374-7955, or you can call the marketing department for SunState FCU.

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352-381-5200 www.sunstatefcu.org

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GIVING BACK >> CHARITY NERDS

NERD ALERT

The Power of Gaming Heath Locklear Took His Passion for Video Games and Turned it into a Nonprofit for Those in Need W RIT TE N BY MONIC A H UMPH RIE S P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y K R I S T I N KOZ E L S K Y

H

eath Locklear came up with the name for Charity Nerds sitting in a Dairy Queen drive-thru. His dad, John Locklear, and him were discussing a name for their new nonprofit.

“Well it’s a charity for nerds,” the 15-year-old said.

And it was just that simple.

Charity Nerds, a nonprofit organization that donates video game equipment to kids in need, started two summers ago. Heath just finished eighth grade, and his dad encouraged him to start a summer project. He came up with the idea to host gaming tournaments. The plan was to gather a group of friends, charge a tournament fee and donate the money to a local charity.

John told him it was a good start but to think bigger.

Heath then came up with the concept for Charity Nerds. The goal is to raise money, collect old and new games, consoles and equipment and find people who need them. This was bigger. John and Heath both thought it had a chance to be a great organization. They hired a lawyer, partnered with the Ronald McDonald House and created a brand.

“In my mind it was sort of on a summer scale,” John said. “But we both saw the potential right away.”

Charity Nerds went from a small summer project to a tangible nonprofit. The idea for the organization came from Heath’s personal experience. When he was six years old, he spent four days in the hospital because of surgery and a cancer scare. During that time his family gave him his first video game system — a Nintendo DS.

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Heath started the nonprofit a year and a half ago. Since then, he’s given families across the United States video games and consoles. Charity Nerds is one of the few video game nonprofits that collect new and used games and gaming equipment for hospitalized children.

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While confined to a hospital room for an extended time when he was young, Heath said playing games allowed him to get out of the hospital in virtual worlds and helped him keep his chin up.

Later, when challenged to do something to make the world a better place — Heath knew he wanted to share the comfort and joy that video games brought to him with kids in need.

“That was the first time I had ever had surgery or been in a hospital,” Heath said. “I remember being scared and there was nothing to remind me of things I loved.”

The video games gave him a chance to take his mind off the pain and unfamiliar place, he said. Before that, Heath didn’t have any video games. His dad had a console and he had a toddler version of a Gameboy, but nothing like his new DS. “That’s where he really sparked off on video games,” John said.

His first games, Spiderman Battle for New York and Star Wars, developed into a passion for video games. Since then, he’s collected a dozen retro consoles and spends any free moment gaming. So when his dad encouraged him to help others, it just 56 |

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made sense to do it through video games.

Charity Nerds partners with other organizations to raise money and donate games.

A great example is its partnership with Stack-Up. Stack-Up donates video games to deployed troops so their teams can play together. Once they’re back home and the teams are no longer in the same area, the video games give them an opportunity to connect and play online so they can stay united.

Charity Nerds reaches out to the families’ troops and gives the military member and kids the same game to play. That way the children can play video games with their deployed parents and stay connected.

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The Locklear family poses for a photo in 2016. Charity Nerds provides an escape for both the child and their family coping with the healthcare experience.

John said that video games have long had negative stigmas. “Lazy kids play video games or that they make people mindless dummies and promote violence,” he said. “In the last few years we’ve really seen that change.” John explained that it’s really a powerful community and games are being used for

a lot of different things, including mental health, soldiers with post-traumatic stress disorder and teens with anxiety.

Charity Nerds donates a monthly grant to Anxiety Gaming, a nonprofit that links people in need of mental health care to professionals

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through video games. Heath’s organization is also helping on a local level. Through car washes, restaurant nights and local events, Charity Nerds raises money and spreads awareness.

The charity has also donated to Shands, the Ronald McDonald House and other local organizations.

Charity Nerds is one of the few organizations that collects used games and equipment. Used video games and consoles can be a little challenging because most hospitals require the games to be brand new and packaged. However, Charity Nerds does its best to find groups that need it. In the past it’s donated games and gear to foster homes, at-risk youth groups, schools and churches.

John said they constantly receive boxes from across the country with used games. From Wisconsin to Chicago, donations come from many different areas. The charity has also been to a

couple MegaCons to raise money and promote the organization.

In late September, Heath and some volunteers went to MegaCon in Tampa, Florida, where they spread the nonprofit’s message and also raised over $1,000.

Charity Nerds had a booth and also hosted a retro game room.

The room had 15 video game consoles where people could come and play old-school games. “It’s a great place to increase brand awareness and get the message out,” John said. Some people hadn’t played those games since their childhood and others played the games for the first time.

“We had everything from the Atari 2600 to the original Xbox,” John said.

The game room was constantly packed with 40 to 50 people.

One of Heath’s favorite memories to this day is the organization’s first donation. The Cortes family had been at the Ronald

GIVING BACK >> CHARITY NERDS

Charity Nerds donates a monthly grant to Anxiety Gaming, a nonprofit that links people in need of mental health care to professionals through video games.

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McDonald House for a few months. The mother had a premature baby that was staying in the NICU. For the three sons, the hospital was a scary and boring place. Charity Nerds raised enough money to give them a PS2 and some games. Heath said their faces lit up.

The family ended up spending six months in the hospital. After Heath gave the donation, he had the chance to play their new games with them. Between Pac-Man and Pole Position, a racing game, he said he saw how thankful they were to have something to do. Heath realized the kids were about his age when he got his Nintendo DS in the hospital, so he could relate to how important those games were for them.

Another one of Heath’s most impactful memories was helping with granting a wish at the Ronald McDonald House. A 14-year-old was battling cancer, and one of his last wishes was to play Battlefield 1 with his brothers when it first came out.

Charity Nerds collected used video games and turned them in for store credit. With the store credit they bought the game and gave it to the teenager.

“It really went to show how important gaming is to some people,” Heath said. “He was on the verge of death and that was a way of bonding with his brothers.” Luckily, the cancer went into remission, and the boy is still playing video games.

John said Charity Nerds is also a venue for students to learn about business and other skills they wouldn’t typically be taught in a school setting. “How to sell, how to convince others of your cause, how to talk to strangers,” he said. “Get them out there learning something new.”

Charity Nerds plans to grow in the future through a variety of ways. John wants to gain corporate promotion and get involved with Esports and Heath plans to focus on the local level. “We’re tag teaming on that,” John said. “We’ve been working really hard to increase our footprint.”

After a year and a half, the organization still hasn’t had a video game tournament, which is where the idea for the charity came from.

“It’s on our to-do list,” Heath said.

Here’s to looking forward to that!

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FULL HEARTS

Food for the Soul

Bread of the Mighty Food Bank has Served the Community for Thirty Years W RIT TE N BY CECILI A LEMUS

T

his year marked the 30th anniversary of the nonprofit organization, Bread of the Mighty Food Bank. The organization which is one of 14 food banks across the state of Florida, serves five counties in North Central Florida including: Alachua, Dixie, Gilchrist, Lafayette and Levy County.

The organization’s mission is to hope and encourage the hungry and food instable community. In their 20,000 square foot warehouse, volunteers and workers receive food donations, then sort and distribute the food to their 160 donation partners including local soup kitchens, churches, food pantries and shelters.

The organization’s latest effort began when Hurricane Irma hit Florida. The organization received increased donations to meet the

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growing need, Marcia Conwell, president and CEO of Bread of the Mighty Food Bank said.

“We gave up our 30th year event without really even thinking about it, because we were needed somewhere else. We could have a party here and have the community come in and celebrate 30 years or we could not do that right now and feed the people that got hit by the storm,” Conwell, who has been working with the organization more than 14 years, said.

A celebration event was planned five months before the storm hit Florida. Money and effort from the community went into planning the event, which was scheduled for September 14 and then subsequently canceled when the storm came on September 11, she said.

“When you do our work day to day, we didn’t even need to think about it. We will just continue to celebrate as we go into the 31st year PHOTOGRAPHY: KRISTIN KOZELSKY

Marcia Conwell is the president and CEO of Bread of the Mighty Food Bank, and has been working with the organization for more than 14 years. Conwell said the decision to cancel their 30th celebration event, after Hurricane Irma hit, did not take much thought at all. They knew their efforts were needed.

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now and maybe next year we can look back and see where we have come,” Conwell said.

Three of the five counties which Bread of the Mighty Food Bank supplies were strongly affected by the storm Conwell said.

Some residents in affected counties were dis-

their area. “If somebody needs food, we don’t see a line. If you are over past this line and you are hungry, we are going to feed you,” Conwell said.

Conwell also said in an interview in her office, that improvements made in the facility have been tremendous.

“When you look at hunger face-to-face and you realize that it’s hunger that you are looking at, it’ll change you.” placed by the storm for weeks after it had passed.

The food bank assisted shelters that housed people during the storm. Since shelters were still open after the storm passed, the food bank also provided resources to those in need.

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“We came from a place the size of our warehouse.

One truck, four employees. But we have quadrupled in everything that we do.”

Last fiscal year, more than 7.4 million pounds of food were distributed, Loretta Griffis, director of community outreach, said.

Through expansions, the facility is now able PHOTOGRAPHY: CECILIA LEMUS, CARLA HILL

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to store more supplies. The shelf life of food donations and storage capacity of the facility are also factors the food bank considers while packing and distributing food. Conwell said the food bank usually loads up trucks and ships the items as fast as possible.

“We get it in today and try to get it out in the afternoon or next morning,” Conwell said.

A wide variety of products are loaded up in trucks and trailers out the back door of the facility.

The organization receives everything from meat, dairy, deli, produce, crackers, cereal and apples.

The nonprofit receives most of their donations from the community, grants and food drive donations.

Conwell said the need is also growing as the facility seeks to grow as well. One in four children in the area and one in six in the general population are food insecure, she said.

The food bank also believes that the work they do will positively impact future generations.

“You have the school kids that are now our future and you have the high school kids that are quicker to be our future, and then you have the working-class two parents or one parent, or the grandmother that is trying to feed (her) family,” Conwell said.” People will always be standing in the food lines, “We will never make it go away but we can shorten the lines.”

The message that the organization hopes to share with the community is that the only way to help is to get to know what the organization does. The organization continues to tell their story and tell it in a different way to make people understand why their work is valuable.

“When you look at hunger face-to-face and you realize that it’s hunger that you are looking at, it’ll change you,” Conwell said.

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Loretta Griffis said the organization receives donations from other states too. They were sent 27 pallets of apples from the state of Washington to help with hurricane relief.

Volunteer Cathryn Gregory and Herbert Scott (below) walk through the aisles of the food pantry.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CECILIA LEMUS

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GIVING BACK >> 10 CAN

SALUTE

Honor, Revive & Grow 10 Can, a Faith-based Nonprofit for Military and First Responder Families, Aims to Enrich the Lives of Children and Youths W RIT TE N BY S TE PH A NIE RICH A R DS

M

atthew Burke knows first hand the difficulty of transitioning back to civilian life after deployment. A retired U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant, the 38-year-old completed four tours in the Middle East. His last tour in Afghanistan left him with physical injuries, requiring him to learn to walk again and live with chronic pain, as well as unseen emotional wounds.

He found healing in outdoor rehabilitation, undergirded by faith, through a horticulture therapy program at Veterans Farm with support from the Farmer Veteran Coalition. The experience planted the seed to purchase 10-acres in Newberry, and together with his wife and two teenage daughters, the land was transformed into a family farm. You could say that is where the vision for the nonprofit began to take root.

Created in 2014, 10 CAN’s mission is to “honor, revive, and grow military and first responder families through outdoor recreation, education, and rehabilitation.” Overseen by

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PHOTOGRAPHY: KRISTIN KOZELSKY

“I’m no longer focused on my disability, but rather my new ability that will positively impact my faith, family, and community.”

— Retired USAF MSgt Matthew Burke, founder and executive director of 10 CAN.

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GIVING BACK >> 10 CAN

(Above) Matthew Burke and his eldest daughter, Jasmine, pose with some animals at their Newberry home. Upon medically retiring from service in 2013, Burke established 10 CAN with the help of his daughter who serves as co-founder and vice president of the nonprofit.

(Right) Burke assists with organizing water and emergency ration meals at the High Springs Fire Department following Hurricane Irma.

“We have a team of veterans that are combating poverty by teaching gardening and farming skills to underprivileged families.” a board of directors, the all-volunteer, faith-based organization “strengthens families through outdoor adventures, enhances the quality of life through nonclinical therapies, and builds impact-driven youth through wilderness development camps and volunteerism.”

Burke said focusing on veterans as well as their families has greater impact in the healing process. “We bridge the gap that combat created,” said Burke, who is 10 CAN’s president. “We are a nonclinical, local asset and that is where the future is for veterans, first responders and their kids. We can’t just put bandages over wounds anymore; we need the ‘antibiotic’ that can bring healing.”

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10 CAN has assisted over 2,500 military, first responder and civilian families with emergency aid, bills, food and family and youth development programs. More than 100 volunteers assist in their efforts annually.

The nonprofit has held 14 adventure retreats for disabled veterans as part of its Outdoor Recreational Therapy (ORT) initiative. These have included activities such as wilderness survival races and fishing and hunting retreats. In addition, an Annual Survival Race for Heroes is held, which covers 50 miles from Blue Springs Park to Hart Springs Park and challenges a participant’s land, water and wilderness survival skills. Burke said the race PHOTOGRAPHY: STEPHANIE RICHARDS

is designed so those with disabilities can participate. “This is a true survival race, built with adaptive sports in mind, for only those daring enough,” he said. “Earlier this year, a quadriplegic from North Carolina teamed up with local U.S. Marine Corps recruits and Marker One Flats Fishing Charters to safely complete the arduous course. We all take for granted warm beds, electricity, hot showers and the availability of food and clean water.

Experiencing a trip like this shows how good life is despite the challenges.”

These alternate therapy programs are tools that help disabled veterans transition back to civilian life. “The public perception is to judge others on what we see, feel, taste and touch. When someone sees a veteran being insensitive, they don’t know that there is a sixth sense — a hidden trauma. That veteran has witnessed something catastrophic,” Burke said. “After four to sixth months of deployment, it is difficult to know how to handle civilian drama when you come back.

You have to rekindle what is important.”

Another facet of ORT is sustainable agriculture programs. Through its Operation Farm2Health (OF2H), 10 CAN teamed up with the Newberry American Legion to create a sustainable food assistance program for families in need. A pantry through the Blessed Hope Foundation was also setup on-site, with the help of a small Bank of America grant. In addition, 10 CAN has partnered with GrowHub to establish an agri-therapy program for disabled veterans. “We have a team of veterans that are combating poverty by teaching gardening and farming skills to underprivileged families,” Burke said. “Our volunteers also established Newberry’s first community orchard, planting 100 fruit trees in the back of the Legion property.”

In addition to activities like family fishing days, 10 CAN also sponsors special events like a mother-son spring day and the Alachua County father-daughter dance. “We partner with Soldiers Freedom Outdoors to offer retreats that promote a holistic health and wellness model of building strong families through outdoor adventures. Strengthening the mind, body, and spirit while building a solid family foundation is the epitome for healing hidden wounds,” Burke said.

Child and youth development is a third area of focus for the nonprofit, which holds

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PHOTO COURTESY OF 10 CAN, INC.

GIVING BACK >> 10 CAN

The organization’s philosophy for their family fitness program is focusing on the family as a vital component for healing. Events such as family fishing day (above) bring everyone together for bonding and fun. (Left) During 10 CAN’s third annual fundraiser “A Wild Florida Feast,” wild game was served. The event raised about $7,000 for programs and services.

a variety of fishing, hunting, and wilderness survival events.

“These are foundational for youth to lean on when traumatic experiences come into their life,” said Burke, who is also a motivational speaker for children and youth.

Burke’s oldest daughter, Jasmine, knows the pride and struggles of being a military kid. She serves as the nonprofit’s vice president. “You watch with pride as your parent wears their uniform. It is the same uniform that was used to defend their home country… to serve and protect those who they love,” 72 |

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the 17-year-old Newberry High School senior said. “But it also means that sometimes you have to get to know your parent all over again when they come back from a long deployment. You can see that they aren’t completely the same person they were before they left.’”

10 CAN works in collaboration with the Veterans Administration (VA) to enhance rehabilitation efforts. The nonclinical programs are impactful to the care of veterans, according to army veteran, Captain David Gray, who is the service chief for the VA’s transition care management in Gainesville.

Gray recently joined 10 CAN’s board. “I was struck by Matt’s mission to work together to bring veterans the help they need.

For many, it goes beyond medications and traditional therapies and there is a need for other support systems in the community.

That is where 10 CAN comes in and I am proud to sit on the board,” said Gray, who won 10 CAN’s 2016 survival race with his son Jackson. “We have a symbiotic relationship. In my position, I am in touch with a community of veterans and Matt focuses on developing and providing activities. I provide the pipeline of veterans who can benefit from programs.”

Recently, 10 CAN became part of the R4 Alliance, a national association of integrative wellness and therapeutic recreation providers. In July, the R4 Coordinated Care Network was launched to provide an online site of recreational, therapeutic, and rehabilitation organizations across the nation. According to their website, their goal is to make integrative wellness services more easily accessible to service members, veterans, and their families.

In June, the Alachua County board passed a proclamation PHOTOGRAPHY: STEPHANIE RICHARDS

declaring it a Hidden Heroes County to encourage government, nonprofit, and faithbased organizations to work together to provide services. Hidden Heroes Caregiver Community (HHCC) is a program of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation that provides an online group of emotional support and local resources for caregivers of veterans, according to Jennifer Mackinday, HHCC program coordinator. “The Foundation wants to support resources like 10 CAN,” Mackinday said at a recent fundraiser. “We love alternate therapies like fishing, equine and hunting because they can break the barrier for some veterans and their families to heal.”

As with any nonprofit, 10 CAN relies on donations and fundraising events to provide its programs and services. Burke said support from local businesses is vital to its mission. In September, it held its third annual fundraiser, A Wild Florida Feast, raising about $7,000 through ticket sales and silent and live auctions, Burke said. “We receive more in-kind contributions than financial gifts, but it does take funds to do retreats,” he said. “A number of groups have stepped up to hold fundraisers for us too.”

Two events in November will benefit 10 CAN’s efforts: the Gainesville Harley-Davidson’s Bikers on Parade (Nov. 5) and the Mayor’s Masters (Nov. 18), an 18-hole golf scramble hosted by Newberry Mayor Jordan Marlowe. “These fundraisers free up our time to focus more on missions or retreats,” Burke said. “We are grateful to these individuals and groups and welcome others to do the same.”

As for the future, Burke is pursing a doctorate in public policy and administration from Walden University. He is writing his dissertation on a case study of secondary trauma in police officers that responded to the Pulse nightclub shooting. “We need to bring on a professional executive director to do the fundraising and pursue federal grants. I want to focus on expansion and growth of retreats and programs,” Burke said. “We’ve been able to make partnerships that most nonprofits don’t make in 10 years.

It is all about collaboration. We don’t have to be nationwide; we can stay local and bring warriors here for retreats and programs that promote healing.”

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COLUMN

CRYSTAL HENRY’S

Naked Salsa ‘TIS THE SEASON

CRYSTAL HENRY IS A FREELANCE WRITER AND COLUMNIST BORN AND RAISED IN WEST TEXAS. SHE RECEIVED HER B.S. IN JOURNALISM IN 2006 FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA. SHE IS IN LOVE WITH THE FLORIDA LANDSCAPE. ces03k@gmail.com

AS A PARENT I THOUGHT MY MAIN JOB WOULD BE TO TEACH SMALL VERSIONS OF MYSELF TO READ AND WRITE WELL ENOUGH SO THAT THEY WOULDN’T LIVE IN MY HOUSE IN THEIR 30s.

B

ut by the time my children started walking, I realized my real job was to teach them to be good humans.

I have two daughters, and between shattering gender roles and smashing the patriarchy, I’ve had to devise ways to teach them empathy.

I started a Girl Scout troop in an effort to indoctrinate the next generation of do-gooders. We do community service projects, talk about world issues, and yes we hustle cookies like drug dealers. Cookie sales are hard work, and people often asked why our troop got such a small cut of the profits from each box. Between slinging cookies and counting change, I’d quickly rattle off that the majority of the cookie profits went to help fund the Girl Scouts camps each summer. But I wasn’t even sure what that meant.

This summer, I decided to cash in on those cookie perks and sent my little Brownie and Daisy girls to Girl Scout camp. The camp was only about 20 minutes away from my office. I work in a disgustingly rich part of town that I don’t belong in, but the camp is in an incredibly poor part of town that no one belongs in.

In true form, we were running late on the first day. While I hustled to get them signed-in my youngest nervously whimpered for me to walk her into breakfast. The counselors asked if the girls would be parent pickup, and if Mom or Dad would be picking them up from camp. I told them my husband would get them in the afternoon, and Violet buried her face in my shirt and begged, “No Mommy I want you to pick me up.” I told her I’d meet them at home after work, and she sulked off with her sister toward the cafeteria.

As I turned to walk out the door I almost bumped into two campers walking in. They passed just as I realized I was still holding Violet’s backpack, so I spun back around and waited my turn in line.

Both of the new campers stared at the ground as a woman with a clipboard checked them in. I was reading emails on my

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phone when I heard them say the girls were from the orphanage in town. As the counselor showed them the way to breakfast, my breath caught in my throat. No one asked if their mom or dad would be picking them up, and they didn’t have a choice who would walk them in for breakfast.

The image of those two young girls, who looked to be the same ages as my own daughters stuck with me all day. When I got home I asked how camp was, and my excited little campers asked if I’d be coming to their share day on Thursday. They said they were putting on skits, so I told them I would, and they ran around squawking.

Then Violet piped up and asked if I’d ever been to jail. The closest I’d ever come was a curfew ticket when I was 16, so I told her no. She asked if I knew where jail was because she met a new friend named Season at camp, and her mom couldn’t come to the share day because she’s in jail. She asked if I would come and cheer for Season on Thursday too. I assured her that I’d cheer for all of them.

On Thursday I brought two small bouquets of flowers to share day, and all the parents cheered while our little ones put on some pretty hilarious musical skits set to Taylor Swift songs. When I handed Violet her bouquet she immediately ripped it in half and ran through the crowd of parents. When I saw her coming back through the crowd she was gripping half her flowers in one hand, and Season’s hand with the other.

Season giggled and held onto the other half of the flowers as she was dragged through the crowd and over to my table. I immediately scooped both girls up, gave them a giant bear hug, and I told them both how proud I was. Season hugged me back with everything she had.

As the gym started to clear out, the counselors called for the bus-riders to start lining up. Season had to run, but before she left she gave my daughter a huge hug and thanked her for the flowers.

I learned more of Season’s story over the summer, and each piece was more heartbreaking than the last. Violet insisted on packing extra snacks for her, and I made sure to give her a hug and tell her I loved her every time I saw her.

This Girl Scout cookie season was particularly brutal, and I swore it would be my last. But after meeting Season and seeing what those boxes can do, I realized it’s actually one way I can be a good parent to more than just my two girls.

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DR AMA COMMUNITY >> CONSTANS THEATRE

Built alongside the Reitz Union in 1967, this theatre is uniquely and intentionally placed to serve the University of Florida and the Gainesville community.

UF’S CONSTANS THEATRE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

O for a Muse of Fire!

WRITTEN BY JOR DA N A LBRIGHT

This year the Constans Theatre is celebrating 50 years of transforming lives in the heart of the UF campus.

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In the beginning…

What’s unique about Constans?

The University of Florida didn’t have a structured academic theatre department until 1971, but it did have students with a passion for the dramatic arts. In fact, the longest running student theatre group started in 1929 under the name Florida Dramatic Society, it was renamed to the Florida Players in 1931 and still exists today. Speech professor Henry Philip Constans, the theatre’s namesake, helped advise and direct the student group from 1929 to his retirement in 1965.

Before the Constans Theatre was built, students found venues across Gainesville. One of the most used spaces was Norman Hall on campus. Students would create sets in a barn north of Broward Hall and transport them across 13th street to Norman.

When the Constans was built in 1967 theatre finally had a home.

The Constans Theatre makes viewing performances easy and intimate. The slope and placement of the rows make any seat a good seat. The large apron, the space between the curtain and audience, lends itself to host a variety of non-traditional performances and events without having to open the curtain.

The theatre has a modest 415 seats, making it smaller than some auditorium-style classrooms on campus, and offers an ideal space for performances and classes.

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COMMUNITY >> CONSTANS THEATRE

Fun Fact: UF Theatre Alumni, Jacob and Angela Pinholster, got married on stage in Constans Theatre in 2012.

the theatre becomes a home away from home. A strong sense of family is built when students work hard to prepare for and perform in shows. Conversely, the Constans introduces theatre and dance to many UF students, nurturing the audiences of the future.

The School of Theatre + Dance is dedicated to the constant mutual exchange of engagement for the stage and classroom.

There are plans for the expansion and modernization of Constans Theatre in order to advance the education and training for its students, which will help enable them to compete successfully in the professional world. There is need for expanding the scenic studio, the creation of a prop shop, faculty and grad student offices, a musical theatre rehearsal studio, a green room, and possibly a small performance 78 |

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venue. Upgrades to modernize scenery movement systems are needed as well.

Be a part of the Constans Legacy Support the next generation of artists, performers, scholars, designers and educators in theatre and dance. Consider joining the Friends of the Theatre + Dance, membership begins at $50; Put your name on a seat in the theatre with a contribution of $500 or more; consider a gift in your estate plans; and talk to the College of the Arts Director of Development, Jennifer Coolidge, at jcoolidge@arts.ufl.edu or by calling 352-846-1211 regarding other ways to enhance the School of Theatre + Dance.

Over the past 50 years, the Constans Theatre has brought thousands of people together.

Here’s to the next 50!

PHOTOGRAPHY: JORDAN ALBRIGHT

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HIGH SPRINGS >> HOBBIT HOUSE

SUBTERR ANEAN SPLENDOR

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here are home improvement projects, and then there’s the Hobbit House.

Located in High Springs, Kathy and John Bryan bought the 3,265-sqaure-foot subterranean house over two years ago and have dedicated nearly every day to it ever since.

Originally built in 1979 by an architect for his family, this art-project-in-progress was long overdue for some TLC after falling on some hard times, Kathy said.

Kathy, 59, and John, 64, found out about the house after one of their daughters, Allison, and her husband, Colin Kelly, traveled from New Jersey a few years ago for a Christmas visit. She and Colin were toying with the idea of moving to Florida and became interested in the house after seeing it online. After John took them to explore the residence, it didn’t take long for Allison to decide it would be far too much work.

“She knew that it was a disaster,” Kathy said. “Which is why we decided to take on the challenge.”

Before their discovery, the house sat empty for about two years after

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John and Kathy Bryan stand outside the Hobbit House, which was built in 1979 and sits in the heart of High Springs. The pair said they worked to fix it as they envisioned it to be, an artistic creation that mirrors the colorful culture of the community.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CAMERON COBB

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

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HIGH SPRINGS >> HOBBIT HOUSE

previously being owned by an artist who had similar hopes of Kathy and John for transforming it into a modern-day masterpiece. Sadly, Kathy said that economic issues arose, and the artist’s in-works work-of-art demanded too much money, and the following years of neglect on the house took their toll.

“We’ve gutted pretty much everything because it had sat for so long,” Kathy said. “We call it ‘Renovation CSI.’” But that’s not the only thing they call it. Allison appropriately nicknamed the down-to-earth dwelling “the Hobbit House.”

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At that time, Allison was teaching English and her class was reading the book “The Hobbit,” and the fitting title became a lasting one.

Kathy and John’s first entrance introduced checkerboard-tiled flooring, a crumbling foundation once catered to supporting water beds, and peculiarly painted rooms with walls ranging from forest green and dusted with sparkles to an oversized sun mural. But somewhere among the original oddities, Kathy and John saw a hidden gem just waiting to be uncovered.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CAMERON COBB, KATHY BRYAN

“Way back in the day, people always had fun things they did to make their house different,” Kathy said. “Everything’s so cookie-cutter now.”

The couple said they wanted to respect what the original architect envisioned and simply enhance the beauty of what’s already there, even if that means things stay “a little bit retro.”

“You had to love it. It was definitely of its era,” Kathy said.

Though every piece of the house has been carefully chosen and creatively crafted, from dome-shaped sinks to recycled beer-bottle kitchen countertops, the heart of the house is what instantly grabs guests’ attention.

The building’s central area offers an inside escape to the outside world within a glass terrarium. The opening invites visitors to submerge themselves in the tan, warm wood and towering banana palms that hug the room’s transparent frame.

“I want when you walk down that hallway for you to feel like you’re in a jungle,” Kathy said.

Along with having this encasing, the Hobbit House sits partially underground surrounded by natural elements of the lush, thriving environment. With an abundance of greenery that encompasses the pool and patio, teeming with curious critters, the habitat provides plenty of life both inside and out.

“It’s very Florida,” Kathy said.

Though this house has presented some unusual challenges, home improvements are no foreign activity for the pair. Within their 30 years of marriage, Kathy and John have renovated seven different houses.

“We both grew up with it, and we both really enjoy it, even if we don’t always agree most of the time,” Kathy said. “We’re both passionate about it, and we’re both stubborn.”

“Well, you are,” John said with a laugh.

While Kathy was an artist and an architect and John a high school math teacher and seller of real estate in the past, the two are now retired, allowing them the opportunity to combine their skills and restore a place desperately needing of those with the talent and time to do so — just as they did for the Hobbit House.

“When you first got here you didn’t know what to do with it,” Kathy said. “We’re really

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HIGH SPRINGS >> HOBBIT HOUSE 84 |

convinced that there are just some houses that tell you they need help.”

Kathy and John met 40 years ago when the pair was studying at William Paterson University, and they moved down from New Jersey in 2007. Besides both wanting a permanent escape from the cold, John said his love for the state goes way back. In the early 1960s, he and a friend came to visit Florida (around the area of High Springs), and it’s been a dream for him ever since.

“I said, ‘you know what? I want to live here,’” John said. “And so that’s what we did.”

This past September, Kathy and John were putting their finishing touches on the house before it would be ready to put on the market just a few weeks from then. The two initially made the purchase with the intention of moving into the Hobbit House and out of their current residence, but unfortunately, as often happens, the unpredictability of life got in the way.

During the fall of 2016, Kathy began having some problems with her back, and right when things started to improve in November, John, unknowingly, had a major heart attack. After a visit to the hospital for something seemingly minor, the doctor told John that he’d sustained an attack and advised him to go to the emergency room. Kathy said she barely had time to park the car before they had John in the operating room.

“And all the while, throughout the panicking, I’m going, ‘you can’t die, we’ve got to finish this house!’”

Kathy said.

And while no one can be truly prepared for such trauma, it especially came as a surprise to John. Nine months earlier, his physical results indicated a clean bill of health and a mere 6.3 percent chance of having a heart attack, John said. Two months and 40 pounds later, John said he finally got to leave the hospital and has been on the road to recovery ever since.

“It was a horrendous couple of months,” Kathy said.

Though the whole ordeal set them back in their renovations, they were thankful for the improvements made to John and now set on completing the last of those for the Hobbit House.

“Had he not been in such good shape from doing what we do here [working on the house], he’d been dead,” Kathy said. “There’s no doubt in my mind.”

Despite the hang-ups over the years, Kathy and John said the transformation process has been a remarkably rewarding experience. The two felt they needed to carve out the house’s artistic wonders and put it back into the community for all to enjoy.

“We owed it to ourselves,” Kathy said. “And we owed it to this house.”

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Kathy said they had to completely gut the residence due to the prior deterioration that occurred from lack of upkeep. The Hobbit House is the couple’s seventh home renovation project.

They said they both enjoy bringing their different skillsets to the table for each house, such as Kathy’s expertise in architecture and John’s mechanical knowlege.

PHOTOGRAPHY: KATHY BRYAN

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BOOK REVIEW

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner RETTIE AND THE RAGAMUFFIN PARADE written by Trinka Hakes Noble, illustrated by David C. Gardner C.2017, SLEEPING BEAR PRESS, $17.95, 32 PAGES

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER HAS BEEN READING SINCE SHE WAS 3 YEARS OLD AND SHE NEVER GOES ANYWHERE WITHOUT A BOOK. SHE LIVES WITH HER TWO DOGS AND 11,000 BOOKS. HER BOOK REVIEWS ARE PUBLISHED IN MORE THAN 200 NEWSPAPERS AND 50 MAGAZINES THROUGHOUT THE U.S. AND CANADA. bookwormsez@yahoo.com

THE BIG, BOOMING DRUMS ARE YOUR FAVORITES.

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h, but you also like flag-wavers and the majorette with her whirling batons. And you can’t forget the gigantic balloons or, of course, the floats with people waving hello. A lot of things go into making a great parade, but as you’ll see in the new book “Rettie and the Ragamuffin Parade” by Trinka Hakes Noble, illustrated by David C. Gardner, all it used to take were a few pennies.

Everyone in Rettie S t a n ow s k i ’s n e i g h b o rhood was excited for the Ragamuffin Parade. It would happen Thanksgiving morning, and it was so much fun: all the kids in the Lower East Side tenements dressed up in old raggedy clothes and they’d walk down Broadway with their hands open.

“Fancy uptown people” then gave them pennies, and on the street corners, pennies were tossed in the air!

It was 1918 and a penny stretched a very long way – just not far enough. Because Mama was sick with consumption and Papa was away at war, nine-year-old Rettie had taken odd jobs and was earning as much as possible to feed her sisters and brother. She simply had to do more if they were to have a good Thanksgiving.

Times were “rough,” though, and things were hard. Everyone was sick, or so it seemed. Lots of children had become orphans and were living on the streets, quarantine signs were everywhere, and schools had closed early. Food was sometimes hard to find,

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and it was expensive. What if they canceled the Ragamuffin Parade, too?

When a nurse showed up to check on Mama, Rettie fretted more: if Mama didn’t get better, Rettie and her siblings would be sent to an orphanage, which couldn’t happen. She just wouldn’t allow it, so while Mama rested, Rettie got up early each morning to clean their building and mop the stoop, saving her pay for her family’s Thanksgiving meal.

Thoughts of the Ragamuffin Parade were never far away, though. Would there be enough money to make it a happy celebration?

Based loosely on several real events, “Rettie and the Ragamuffin Parade” may come as a nice surprise to both you and your child: who knew that Thanksgiving and Halloween once went hand-in-hand?

It’s true, and at the end of her story, author Trinka Hakes Noble explains how it all came about. Noble puts a human face on tragedy and poverty, and it’s one that kids will relate to, since the young heroine here is at about the age of the target audience.

While kids will love the tale and you can explain the history behind it, the illustrations by David Gardner will keep them coming back to this book. Gardner’s artwork subtly shows the right amount of bleakness inside this story, quietly growing warm toward the (happy) ending.

Kids ages six-to-nine will love this unique story. But beware, that for them, this is absolutely a read-aloud. Despite some big words and big concepts here, “Rettie and the Ragamuffin Parade” is a book to march out and get.

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CARING >> BABY LEMUR NAMED JUNO

ANIMAL INSTINCT

A Miracle Named

Juno Abandoned Baby Lemur Beats the Odds W RIT TE N BY C A MERON COBB

A

s soon as little Juno was welcomed into the world, he began fighting for his life.

Two red ruffed lemurs, Juno and his brother, were both immediately rejected by their mother after being born around midnight on June 1 at the Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation. The following morning, staff of this Gainesville animal rescue organization placed the mother and her two offspring in a small enclosure, hoping the close quarters would promote a bond to form. After doing everything they could to encourage her maternal instincts to kick in, she still refused to care for her young. Any additional time spent trying would only further compromise the newborns’ lives.

“She just wouldn’t have anything to do with them, and every time they tried to come to her to nurse, she just shoved them away,” said Christine 88 |

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Janks, president and cofounder of the foundation.

“She just didn’t seem to understand [how to be a mother].”

This rejection is rarely seen with primates, Janks said, but it does and did happen, giving these babies an extremely low chance of survival. After taking the responsibility of two not-even-a-day-old lemurs into their hands, staff and interns worked relentlessly.

At birth, red ruffed lemurs typically weigh about 115 – 120 grams, Janks said, and should eat at least 50 percent of their body weight every day. Staff provided the baby lemurs with the only possible substitution: a one-milliliter syringe filled with infant formula.

But without access to their mother’s nutrient-rich milk, Juno’s 105-gram brother passed away after 24 hours. With Juno’s birth weight of merely 100 grams now steadily declining, the odds were not in his favor.

Juno’s beginning of life was a constant cycle of

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CARING >> BABY LEMUR NAMED JUNO

The little lemur is now thriving, thanks to the dedicated care he received at Carson Springs.

one crisis after another. He’d lose weight almost instantly after gaining it and battled multiple bouts of dehydration and sickness from lack of necessary immunities.

“There were at least three different times we thought for sure he wasn’t going to make it,” Janks said.

Despite the grim outlook, staff continued to hand-feed Juno drop by drop for about 30 minutes every two hours. He would have to be force fed many times because he refused to eat. They even tried offering him a stuffed-animal lemur to cuddle up with, but baby Juno saw right through the impersonator.

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“There’s not the warm fur to nuzzle in, it doesn’t smell like mom,” Janks said. “It’s just not the same.”

This routine continued for 30 days, and overtime Juno started to more willingly take the formula. At two months, they added cereal and baby fruit into his diet, but it still took three months before he could feed himself.

“We didn’t really consider being mostly out of the woods until he started eating on his own,” Janks said.

In September, Janks said Juno was doing great and that staff were working on introducing him to other lemurs so he could

“She just wouldn’t have anything to do with them, and every time they tried to come to her to nurse, she just shoved them away.” learn to interact with his own kind. But given the circumstances, it’s easy to permit some special attention for Juno every now and then.

“He’s going to be a very spoiled little lemur,” Janks said.

Janks described the vigilant ritual of caring for Juno when he was at his most vulnerable as “a complete readjustment” of the lives of those involved, with his thriving survival proof that it was well worth it.

However, Janks said as far as other options go, there really wasn’t any, and the same would’ve been done for any other being of Carson Springs in a heartbeat.

“Our animals are like our children, so we can’t ever turn our backs or consider it too much work,” Janks said.

With no state or federal funding, the wonderful successes of this organization are dependent on the generosity of donations, Janks said. With tons of animals to continue to love and care for, she stressed the importance of any contribution.

“Every little bit helps,” Janks said. “Even if it’s one day of food [for an animal], that makes all the difference in the world.”

To find out more about Juno and the many other animals home to Carson Springs, visit: www.carsonspringswildlife.org or call 352-468-2827.

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HELPING HOMELESS >> GRACE MARKETPLACE

OPEN DOORS

GRACE MARKETPLACE OFFERS REFUGE IN TIMES OF NEED

Saving Grace W R ITTEN BY CA MERON COBB

On any given night, GRACE Marketplace shelters roughly 113 people, said Jon DeCarmine, director of the organization.

Besides just shelter, the group offers an abundance of resources for those in need of assistance, such as daily meals and access to restrooms, showers, laundry and storage facilities.

Located at 3055 NE 28th Drive in Gainesville, the nonprofit organization opened and began providing limited assistances to the community in May of 2014, according to gracemarketplace. org. By the next month, GRACE Marketplace was officially offering a full-range of services and has continued to combat the area’s issue of homelessness ever since.

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Additionally, GRACE Marketplace works with individuals to better their lives beyond just the basic necessities and helps get people on a path towards a self-sustaining future. The organization combats substance abuse through counseling and offers services for improving individuals’ physical and mental health. GRACE Marketplace also provides programs periodically for professional training and skill development, according to their website.

While only a few years old, the nonprofit has worked to make a lasting, positive impact for the area’s homeless population. In 2016, GRACE Marketplace provided 2,142 community members with services, moved 102 people into housing and reduced the number of unsheltered homeless by 38 percent, according to gracemarketplace.org.

The organization also has an emergency plan in place for events like cold weather, tropical storms, hurricanes and more, DeCarmine said. When this plan is activated, for instance, during

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HELPING HOMELESS >> GRACE MARKETPLACE

Hurricane Irma, GRACE Marketplace ensures it has plenty of food, water and other necessities, and the organization’s services are available to anybody in the community. During these periods, GRACE Marketplace can accommodate an additional 100 - 150 people, with the gates kept open all day for 24-hour, round-the-clock access.

“So even if somebody thinks they can weather out the storm, and they change their mind at 2 a.m., they can still come in and seek a safe place to stay,” DeCarmine said.

Plans like this are imperative to those individuals who are without shelter during such disastrous times, including assisting those in Dignity Village, which neighbors GRACE Marketplace. Dignity Village is a separate homeless 94 |

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community of about 200 tent dwellers, and especially during natural disasters, the resources of GRACE Marketplace help to save lives of those who may be far more vulnerable than most others.

GRACE Marketplace thrives on the support from donors, whether that be monetary or needed items, along with help from volunteers. With opportunities ranging from preparing a meal as a group service project or volunteering individually as a greeter, there are plenty of ways to get involved with the organization and assist the community.

For more information about GRACE Marketplace, such as what resources and services are most needed, or to make a donation and find out more about volunteering, visit: gracemarketplace.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

community event sponsored by

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AWESOME Food From

SF College • Thursday, Nov 9 3000 NW 83 St, Gainesville

40+ Local Restaurants

Gate opens at 5:30pm

Get your tickets today!

GainesvilleFoodFest.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

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SunState Federal Credit Union with donations benefiting United Way.

Who’s Ready to Eat ?

Gainesville has plenty of great places to eat and for about 3 hours on Thursday November 9th, Santa Fe College will become the epicenter of the Gainesville Food Scene. This year’s Gainesville Food Fest will feature over 40 local restaurants serving their most delicious appetizers and samples of their most popular entrees.

Gainesville Food Fest features national restaurants such as Chili’s, Texas Roadhouse and Buffalo Wild Wings in addition to some the area’s best local eateries. Favorites such as Piesano’s, Sabore, Pomodoro and Gators Dockside will be serving plenty of options to festival attendees.

This year’s event will bring together some of the area’s best restaurants, great music and local craft beer. Tickets start at $10 and provides access to all of the restaurants – with group discounts and VIP tickets available at GainesvilleFoodFest.com

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t a h w ’s e r e H ? o g a nn a W you need to know !

We can’t wait to chow down with you

When is it?

at Gainesville Food Fest

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 9 , 2017

How do I buy Tickets?

starting at 5:30. Event should last until

Visit GainesvilleFoodFest.com

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4-packs and VIP tickets available.

Where is it?

3000 NW 83 83rd Street, Gainesville, Florida

We will also be selling tickets at the

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TASTE OF THE TOWN

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Serving both lunch and dinner, we have a variety of choices. From our Fried Green Tomatoes, Chicken and Waffles, to our Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads or Soups. And entrees such as Shrimp and Grits or Florida Cut Sirloin, all are sure to satisfy. But save room for our delicious dessert selection and DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookies. Enjoy our daily Happy Hour menu with Specialty drinks, Beer, and Wine. Don’t forget our amazing Sunday brunch with a Bloody Mary Bar and Endless Mimosas, and all day Happy Hour that is sure to end your weekend off just right.

Copper Monkey West 14209 W Newberry Road, Jonesville, FL 32669 Across from the Steeplechase Publix Sunday-Thursday 11:00am - 11:00pm Friday-Saturday 11:00am - 12:00am

352-363-6338 mycoppermonkey.com Restaurant & Pub — Now serving Breakfast on Saturdays & Sundays 8:30am - 10:45am. We are located in the heart of Jonesville, this All-American dining is convenient to all neighborhoods in Gainesville, Alachua, Newberry, High Springs and beyond. Our family-friendly dining features great food at a great price. Whether you come in for the “best burger in town” or try any one of our freshly made salads, pastas or sandwiches, you will not leave disappointed. Our USDA choice steaks, served with 2 sides, offer a great alternative for the perfect celebratory meal. We also feature a full-service bar with signature drinks and many options for your viewing pleasure.

Great food, great price, we’ll see you soon.

Gators Den Sports Grill 4200 NW 97th Blvd Gainesville, FL 32606 Sunday 11:00am — 11:00pm • Monday - Thursday 5:00pm — 11 :00pm Friday 5:00pm — 12 :00am • Saturday 11:00am — 12 :00am

352-331-4875 Gatorsdensportsgrill.com Bar & Grill— Offering a full bar, fantastic food and flat screen televisions to watch the big game. The Gators Den Sports Grill is the best spot to unwind, meet up and grab a bite to eat. Gators Den Sports Grill has your front row seat to every game. Besides showing all of the televised University of Florida football games, we also feature NFL Ticket, NBA League Pass and MLB Extra Innings, so you can root on your favorite team. You may come for the game, but you’ll stay for the food! Featuring a large selection of American favorites. Why not try a Southern staple, like our award-winning Mac and Cheese, Fried Pickles, Down Home Meatloaf. Enjoy game-day classics like Buffalo Wings, All-American Burgers or one of our Knockout Premium Steaks, cooked to perfection.

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Napolatanos 606 NW 75th Street Gainesville, FL Tuesday - Thursday & Sunday 4:00pm-10:00pm Friday 4:00pm-1:00am • Saturday 4:00pm-11:00pm

352-332-6671 www.napolatanos.com ITALIAN — Napolatanos is the longest original owner operated restaurant in Gainesville. Nappys, the name the locals have given Napolatanos has the most extensive menu.

Whether you choose pizza, calzones, salad, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, seafood, steak dinners or the best chicken wings in town, Nappy’s uses only the freshest ingredients.

Visit on Tuesday for half price appetizers. Burgers & Brew Night on Wednesday and live music inside. Thursday is Pub night with Better than England’s Fish & Chips $7. Outside dining with live music, on the patio, on Sunday evenings. GRAB & GO family dinners feeds 4-6 adults, starting at $25.95. Choose from Ziti, Lasagna, Chicken Alfredo, Chicken Marsala and more!

Dave’s New York Deli Tioga Town Center 12921 SW 1st Road, Newberry, FL Park Lane Plaza – 5750 SW 75th Court, Gainesville, FL Two Locations - Open 7 Days

352-333-0291 Tioga 352-363-6061 Pk Ln DavesNYDeli.com Authentic NY deli — Dave’s NewYork Deli Tioga Town Center and our newest location, Dave’s NY Deli South (near Haile Plantation), continues to be the place to go for authentic NY Deli food. Owner Dave Anders says “Nothing beats quality ingredients combined with a friendly staff. We bring in all of our Pastrami and Corned Beef from New York’s world famous Carnegie Deli. In addition we offer Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Paninis, Wraps, Cubans, Hot & Cold Subs, Kids Menu and more.”Come out and enjoy Breakfast or Lunch at either of our two locations.

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 1999 NW 43rd St., Gainesville Monday - Saturday 11am - 11pm Sunday 11:00am -10:00pm

352-379-7800 www.beefobradys.com Family Friendly — Beef O Brady’s is a neighborhood pub where friends and families can gather to enjoy hot, fresh and great food. Grab a cold beer or a signature drink and watch your favorite sports on multiple TV’s in a fun, comfortable atmosphere. The menu starts with plenty of sharable starters to choose from. Beef’s is known for their “award winning” wings and famous wing sauce. Hand crafted sandwiches and the “build your own” Angus burgers are always sure to please. Be sure to visit their website for daily specials such as,Taco Tuesday and seafood combo Fridays. If it’s the lighter side you are looking for, they do have salads and soups. Plenty of choices for the kids to please even the smallest of appetites. See you at Beef’s!

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I Love NY Pizza 2645 SW 91st St, Haile Plantation (Market square) Gainesville Monday-Saturday 10:00am – 10:00pm Closed on Sundays

352-333-6185 www.ilnyp.com Pizzeria — We are a family owned, family friendly restaurant that serves authentic New York style pizza and delicious Italian entrees. We offer dine, take out, delivery and catering. We make everything fresh and with high quality ingredients from our dough, to our sauce, to each of our dishes — including classics such as Baked Ziti, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, Chicken Marsala or Alfredo, and many more. If you are in the mood for pizza, you can “take and bake” at home or let us prepare you one of our specialty Brick oven pizzas. So many choices of specialty pizzas, try them all! Pizza by the slice is available for lunch or dinner! Let’s not forget about the Stromboli, Calzones, Salads, Desserts and yes, we have a kids menu too! What ever you choose, we guarantee to bring you all the unique flavors of New York City. Visit our website for a full menu and coupons.

Gator’s Dockside 3842 W Newberry Rd #1A, Gainesville, FL 32607 Mon - Sun 11am - Midnight

352-338-4445 gatorsdockside.com family-friendly — Gator’s Dockside is a family-friendly, sports-themed restaurant that offers a fun atmosphere for everyone! We’re known for our big screen TVs, great food, and friendly service. Our signature wings are flavored with our tasty wing sauces that have made us famous, especially our award-winning Scooter sauce. We only use the freshest, highest quality ingredients in all our menu selections, including burgers, hearty sandwiches, made-from-scratch ribs, entree salads, and desserts. We also have some of the best meal deals in town, like all-you-can-eat wings on Mondays and Wednesdays, and 2-for-1 on select drafts, house wine, and liquors all day, everyday. We can’t wait to see you at Gator’s!

Pomodoro Café 9200 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606 Monday - Saturday 11am - 10pm Sunday 11am - 9pm

352-380-9886 pomodorocafe.com Italian — Step away from the hustle and bustle of Gainesville and enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening in the Italian countryside at Pomodoro Café. Just off I-75 via exit 390, Pomodoro’s is the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a simple night out with family.

We’ll pour you a glass of wine and prepare for you a delicious, authentic Italian meal, such as Chicken Parmigiana, Shrimp Fra Diavolo, and Gnocchi Madiera. Our pasta is imported from Italy and has been voted some of the best in Gainesville. As the sounds, aromas, and tastes of wholesome, authentic Italian swirl around you, you’ll believe you’re actually in Italy!

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Mi Apá Latin Café Gainesville – 114 SW 34th Street (352-376-7020) Alachua – 15634 US Highway 441 (386-418-0838) Both locations open every day 7:00am - 10:00pm

MiApaLatinCafe.com Cuban — Everyone knows Mi Apá has an amazing lunch and dinner menu, but we also have Gainesville’s best cup of coffee and a delicious, authentic selection of Cuban breakfast items. Enjoy a Cuban egg sandwich, Arroz a la Cubana, a stuffed arepa, and much more at either of our two locations in Gainesville and Alachua. Mi Apá Latin Café serves traditional Cuban breakfast prepared using only the freshest, most authentic ingredients. Have a seat in our casual dining area and enjoy the morning newspaper or order carryout on your way to work. Our Gainesville location even has a convenient drive-thru window. The best Cuban food north of Miami is always just minutes away!

Bangkok Square 6500 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm-9:30pm • Friday-Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm

352-375-4488 www.bangkoksquarefl.com Authentic Thai Cuisine — Thai cuisine, blending the best elements of the freshest foods. Thai herbs; garlic, basil, ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal root, chili and more, prepared with the finest blending of fish sauce, shrimp paste, and coconut milk. All of our meals are made to order and prepared on site. We specialize in vegetarian, vegan and gluten free orders. All of our foods can be prepared to your satisfaction with mild, medium, hot, or Thai hot, balanced to the four tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and slightly bitter. Meals can be prepared for take out and we cater to any event. We also have gift cards available. Save 10% off your next dining experience when a gift card is purchased.

Adam’s Rib Co. 2109 NW 13th Street, Gainesville, Florida 32609 1515 SW 13th Street Gainesville, Florida 32608 Monday-Saturday 7:00am – 9:00pm Closed Sunday

352-373-8882 NW 352-727-4005 SW AdamsRibCo.com BBQ — Celebrating our 10 year Anniversary. Looking for the best BBQ in Gainesville?

Then look no further than Adam’s Rib Co. Adam’s is North Florida’s Premier Barbecue restaurant, serving North Florida’s finest bbq spare ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, slow smoked chicken and turkey. Choose from over 20 sauces – from honey sweet to habanero hot – and everything in between. Don’t forget dessert, like our scrumptious banana pudding and famous peach cobbler. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Adam’s can cater any event locally. Give Adam a call for your next tailgate party 352-514-8692!

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Pepperoni’s 19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs Mon -Thurs 11:00am — 9:00pm • Fri & Sat 11:00am — 10:00pm Sunday 12:00pm — 9:00pm

386-454-3858 Pizzeria — Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings, boneless wings and salads in town using Grande brand premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. We also have great lunch specials starting at only $4.99. All of our specialty pizzas are loaded with toppings.

Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located on U.S. Highway 441.

Brown’s Country Buffet 14423 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua, FL 32616 Monday-Friday 7:00am - 8:00pm Saturday 7:00am - 2:00pm Sunday 8:00am - 3:00pm

386-462-3000 brownscountrybuffet.net Casual — Country-style cooking at its finest, just like Grandma’s house! A buffet style restaurant, Brown’s Country Buffet is open seven days a week! Foods like fried chicken, grilled pork chops, real mashed potatoes, steamed cabbage, banana pudding and coconut pie, just to name a few, are served in a laid-back, relaxing environment. We offer AYCE fried shrimp on Friday nights from 4-8 along with whole catfish & ribs. In addition to their buffet, Brown’s also offers a full menu to choose from. Serving lunch and dinner daily and a breakfast buffet Friday-Sunday until 10:30am, you’re sure to leave satisfied, no matter when you go. So, when you’re in the mood for some good home cooking, Grandma’s style, visit Brown’s Country Buffet.

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza (Archer Road) 5757 SW 75th St. — 352-371-8646 • (Millhopper Road) 5200 NW 43rd St. — 352-371-7437 (University) 1250 W University Ave. — 352-375-2337 • (Grand Oaks Plaza) 2575 SW 42nd St. Ocala — 352-351-6000

Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm Sun: 11am-10pm

www.piesanostogo.com Pizza, Pints & Pies — Piesanos is a locally owed and operated restaurant that is proud to use only the finest ingredients available, including Grande brand premium mozzarella. We are a full service dine in restaurant with an attached take out center and also offer catering. Our dough is made fresh daily and all of our pizzas are baked directly on the stone in our unique Granite Stone Fired Pizza Oven. We offer a great variety of Specialty pizzas, such as our Pizza Antico-(ultra thin crust- Fresh Mozzarella, mini cup & char pepperoni & fresh basil) Specialty Pastas, Calzones, Fresh soups and salads, classic italian entrees, and a great selection of craft beer. We also offer a gluten free menu. For full menu please visit PIESANOSTOGO.COM.

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Smoke Fried 23352 W US Hwy 27, Suite 50, High Springs, FL 32643 Monday -Thursday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM • Friday - Saturday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

386-454-7031 www.smokefried.com Casual — Offering traditional smokehouse flavors through a variety of BBQ favorites and dishes with a new spin, served in a casual setting with a large portion of friendly service. Getting home late, running from appointments to practice, just too exhausted to cook? We have the whole family covered with home style favorites or BBQ packs for dine in or carry out. In a hurry? Order online and zip by on your way from here to there. Half priced kid’s meals on Monday nights with the purchase of an adult meal.

Grab some friends and family and come try “The Lid,” our BBQ feast served on a garbage can lid for sharing.

Bev’s Burger Café 315 NE Santa Fe Blvd. • High Springs Monday - Saturday 7am-9pm

386-454-9434 Casual — If you’re looking for fresh, homemade food in High Springs, look no further than Bev’s Burger Cafe. Known for the best burgers in town and fast, friendly service you’re sure to leave satisfied. You may also want to try one of their BBQ dinner favorites such as sliced pork, smoked turkey, BBQ chicken, baby back ribs, and more. Stop on by with the kids on Monday nights for some magic & balloon animals with Magic Mike.

Every Tuesday pork sandwiches are $3.00 all day. Also, on Wednesday nights starting at 5pm sodas and their famous tea are only $1.00, and bottled beer only $1.50. Don’t forget Bev’s is open for breakfast, also, served from 7am to 10:45am. Come check out our newly renovated kitchen & dining room, and our new menu items including fried chicken!

World of Beer 140 SW 128th Street Tioga Town Center, Jonesville 32669 Open at 11am Everyday

352-727-4714 worldofbeer.com TAVERN FARE — At World of Beer, we have 40 craft beers on tap, over 500 in the cooler and now we have added a tasty tavern fare that’s crafted to go perfectly with any beer. Our menu offers a wide variety of choices including a giant pretzel with beer cheese dip, artisan sausage boards, flat breads, innovative sandwiches and burgers, soups, salads and so much more! Visit our web site for a full menu and event schedule.

Whether you’re a beer master or just beer curious, our insanely knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through every last pint, pour, and pairing. So c’mon. Let’s go. Because there’s no better place to go around the world, one sip at a time.

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FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

Saboré 13005 SW 1st Road, Tioga, FL 32669 (Tioga Town Center) Tuesday - Friday: 5pm - 10pm • Saturday: 10am - 3pm (brunch), 5pm - 10pm (dinner) Sunday: 10am - 3pm (brunch), 5pm - 10pm (dinner) • Open Mondays for special events only

352-332-2727 www.saborerestaurant.com Fusion — Saboré [sa-bohr-ay] is a modern world-fusion restaurant featuring a variety of dishes inspired by dynamic cuisine from places like Europe, Asia, and South America.

Their recipe is simple: authentic global flavors, quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and exceptional service. Saboré offers customers a unique dining experience, shareable plates, delicious dishes, signature cocktails, desserts and now brunch that will keep you coming back for more. So let us surprise your palate with our global flair and exotic ingredients. Experiencing world cuisine this fresh usually requires a passport.

Pizza in the Hood 14212 NW 154th Avenue, Alachua, FL 32615 Tuesday – Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.

386-518-5656 Italian — Pizza in the Hood is a new and unique restaurant and pub in the City of Alachua. We use the highest quality ingredients imported from around the country, and fresh produce sourced locally when in season. All meals are made fresh with original Italian recipes. In addition to 16 New York style specialty pizzas, there are a variety of appetizers, salads, hot subs, burgers, pasta dishes, vegetarian entrees, and dessert. Customers have praised the chicken wings, with over 20 varieties, as the best in town. Our pub has icy cold imported and domestic beers and beer on tap. There are daily happy hour specials from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. We deliver all around northern Alachua County.

Flying Biscuit Café 4150 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 Located in the Fresh Market Center Monday-Friday 7:00am – 3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 7:00am – 4:00pm

352-373-9500 www.flyingbiscuit.com Breakfast — The Flying Biscuit is out to reinvent breakfast in Gainesville! Maybe you’ve tried their soon-to-be-famous creamy, dreamy grits or their “moon dusted” breakfast potatoes, but did you know you can have them at anytime? With a unique open menu, all the items that appear are available throughout the day. With a variety of healthy and hearty dishes, The Flying Biscuit caters to a variety of tastes. With options ranging from the Smoked Salmon Scramble, the Bacon Cheddar Chicken Sandwich or the Tofu and Tater Salad, there’s something for everyone. Call us up to an hour before your expected arrival time to add your name to our call ahead seating list.

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ADVERTISEMENT

Jazz Radio is Back SLIDE YOUR RADIO DIAL TO GAINESVILLE’S SMOOTH JAZZ 98.9FM

JAZZ MUSIC IS BACK ON THE LOCAL RADIO DIAL AT 98.9 FM GAINESVILLE’S SMOOTH JAZZ. Smooth Jazz is a popular genre of music that grew out of jazz and is influenced by blues, funk, rock and roll, and pop music styles. Musicians such as Kenny G and Dave Koz have had hits with instrumental recordings, while singers like Sade, Sting, and Norah Jones have found major success with vocal recordings.

Listen to win cash on the 98.9 Timeline by remembering important events.

Well known artists like Al Jarreau, Chuck Mangione, Barry White, George Benson, and Louis Armstrong will be on 98.9 FM as well as new artists. Over one third of Gainesville’s Smooth Jazz’s library is newly released music by up and coming artists. Smooth Jazz fans can take 98.9 with them to their office through streaming on their desktop computer,

laptop, or smartphone with the 98.9 Smooth Jazz App for iOS or Android.

Gainesville’s Smooth Jazz 98.9 works to provide all the most up-to-date information about Smooth Jazz artists, tours, and scheduled performances in Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami, St. Petersburg, and Tampa.

Whether it’s one of many Jazz Festivals in Florida, tour schedules of major Jazz artists, news about Jazz cruises leaving from Ft. Lauderdale, and who is playing jazz R&B, or any other form of Jazz in local clubs, smoothjazz989.com wants to promote it.

Look for the most up-to-date events in Gainesville’s Bo Diddley Plaza, Café C, Dirty Bar, The Bull, High Dive, Leonardo’s, and any local venue that hosts live jazz music.

Regionally, look for the Palladium in St. Pete, House of Blues in Orlando, Little Havana’s Ball and Chain, Blue Bamboo in Winter Park, and the Tampa Jazz Club, as well as all the Jazz Festivals.

Gainesville’s Smooth Jazz 98.9 is owned by KISS 105.3 and will operate with the same focus on good entertainment, with a lot of community service, and fun local contests.

NEWS/EVENTS/ CONCERTS VIP LISTENER CLUB CONTESTS ARTIST INFO WIN $98.90 EACH WEEKDAY LISTEN LIVE ONLINE ANYTIME smoothjazz989.com

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We feel the best way to find and recognize local charities in our communities is by asking you!

The SunState Community Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves the communities in and around North Central Florida by promoting and facilitating philanthropy.

The Foundation was established to promote and provide charitable assistance that contributes towards the development, education and well-being of the communities, areas and residents of Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, and Levy Counties in Florida. The foundation’s initial goal is to administer and fully fund the award winning Facebook Charity-of-the-Month program. SunState Federal Credit Union started the program in 2013, but has turned over administration of the program to the foundation, with SunState Federal Credit Union acting only as a sponsor. This has been done in the belief that this path will ensure the program remains a strong and expanding community resource long into the future.

The SunState Community Foundation, Inc., provides donors/members opportunities to participate in the furtherance of the foundation’s goals in multiple ways. First, and foremost, the donors/members are providing funds to support the foundation’s charitable initiatives. Donors/members can also nominate groups for the Charity of the Month program, and then vote for the group of their choice. Donors/members are encouraged to participate and vote in the Charity of the Month program. Ultimately, the voters choose where foundation donations go as part of the infrastructure of the program.

SunState Community Foundation, Inc.

SPONSORSHIP L EVEL S AVAIL ABL E $

1,000 CHARITY OF THE MONTH SPONSOR

$

•

Recognized on all 4 Entercom Communication stations, 30 times (120 total); KTK, SKY, WRUF and ESPN.

•

Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page, KTK’s Facebook page and Our Town’s Facebook page.

•

Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine.

•

•

•

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500 RANDOM CHARITY SPONSOR Recognized on 2 of Entercom Communications stations, 30 times (60 total); WRUF and ESPN Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page, KTK’s Facebook page and Our Town’s Facebook page.

Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine.

$

300 NOMINATOR SPONSOR

•

Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page, KTK’s Facebook page and Our Town’s Facebook page.

•

Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine.

$

100 RANDOM VOTER SPONSOR

•

Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page.

•

Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine

MOST RECENT WINNING ORGANIZATIONS TO NOMINATE A CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE OR TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE NOMINEES, VISIT:

www.facebook.com/SunStateFCU and click on “Charity of the Month”

AUGUST 2017 WINNER – 4,374 VOTES

SEPT. WINNER - 577 VOTES

Gentle Carousel Therapy Horses

High Springs

Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses is a nonprofit that provides over 25,000 people annually with love from these animals when it is needed most.

For over 20 years, the organization’s highly trained therapeutic horses have eased all kinds of suffering, including during times of natural disasters, medical challenges and more — thanks to the generosity of volunteers, donors and partners.

The High Springs Community School PTSA is a group of parents, teachers, students, support staff and other members of the community who strive to provide the school with necessary information, services and resources for academics and related programs.

Members of the PTSA aim to be positive role models for children along with promote a strong relationship between parents, teachers and children.

Other winners include Debbie Garcia, who will win $300 for nominating them. The random charity is Pets and Patriots Foundation, and they will receive $500.

The random voter, Carolann Book, will get $100.

Other winners include Paul Hamlin, wo will win $300 for nominating them. The random charity is Sunrise Wildlife Rehabilitation, and they will receive $500.

The random voter, Sharon Henry, will get $100.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS >> CHARITY OF THE MONTH

CH A RIT Y OF THE MONTH WINNER S

Community PTSA

A project of the SunState Community Foundation, Inc. Presented by SunState Federal Credit Union, Our Town Family of Magazines and Entercom Communications

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COMMU NIT Y C A LENDA R

N OV EM B ER/ D ECEM B ER 2017

Downtown Festival & Art Show

Sat & Sun, November 11 & 12 Enjoy the 36th annual event along the streets of historic downtown Gainesville. A celebration of art and creativity complete with live music, performing arts and a spectacular array of food.

GAINESVILLE MUSIC ASSOCIATION PUBLIC SYMPOSIUM & WORKSHOP First Monday 6:30pm – 7:30pm

GAINESVILLE - Aurora Downtown, 109 SE 4th Ave. Join the music community for a workshop on a carefully developed aspect of different areas of the music business. These events begin with a presentation and workshop on a thoughtfully researched topic that our organization thinks will genuinely help the music community. www.gainesvillemusicassociation.com.

TAP DANCE WITH CHAYA Tuesdays Times Vary

GAINESVILLE - North Central Florida YMCA, Studio 2, 5201 NW 34th Blvd. Designed to demonstrate that creativity can be fun for everyone and make the community stronger and healthier! Open to the public, all are welcome.

6:00pm beginner and 7:00pm intermediate.

Class cards are 6/$74 or 10/$108. 352-358-5005.

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BIRD WALK

BIRDS AND BREW

Wednesdays 8:30am

First Thursday 7:00pm – 8:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Rd. Trips led by volunteers from Alachua Audubon Society. Walks are free, but park admission is $5 per car. www.alachuaaudubon.org.

GAINESVILLE - First Magnitude Brewery, 1220 SE Veitch St. Meet at the Brewery each month for a stroll to Depot Park to look for birds, and return to First Mag for a cold brew and good conversation.

All birding skill levels are welcome; enthusiasm is what matters! www.alachuaaudubon.org.

WIND DOWN WEDNESDAY Wednesdays 7:00pm - 11:00pm

GAINESVILLE - 101 Downtown, 201 SW Second Ave. Enjoy live Jazz and great wine – Seasonal wines are available for half price to give patrons the ability to find their perfect wine. $20 all-youcan-drink house wine. 352-283-8643.

ROCKEYS COMEDY BOOM Wednesdays 9:30pm – 11:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Rockeys Dueling Piano Bar, 112 S Main St. Local comedians open the show for a different nationally touring headliner each week.

Doors open at 8:45pm and price is $5, with drink specials accompanying the show. 352-505-0042.

GAINESVILLE HARMONY SHOW CHORUS Thursdays 7:00pm – 9:30pm

GAINESVILLE - Grace Presbyterian Church, 3146 NW 13th St. For all who are interested in learning and singing women’s Acapella barbershop harmony music. 352-318-1281.

ARTWALK GAINESVILLE Last Friday 7:00pm - 10:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Downtown. Artwalk is a free monthly self-guided tour that combines exciting visual art, live performance and events with PHOTOGRAPHY: XX

many local galleries, eateries and businesses participating. artwalkgainesville.com.

LADY GAMERS Fridays 1:00pm

HIGH SPRINGS - New Century Woman’s Club, 40 NW 1st Ave. The Lady Gamers meet for fun, friendship and food. Everyone is invited.

Meet old friends and make some new ones.

386-454-9828.

GUIDED WALK First Saturday 10:00am – 12:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Dr. Come out for a guided tour of the Gardens the first Saturday of every month. Regular admission price for non-members and members are admitted free of charge.

352-372-4981.

Great Suwannee River Basin Cleanup

MUSIC IN THE PARK

GAINESVILLE - Locations vary. The cleanup encompasses the Suwannee River and its surrounding areas, including tributaries, the Withlacoochee River, the Santa Fe River, the Ichetucknee River, and the Alapaha River. You can choose what date works best for you. The river has been broken up into small sections and you choose what section your group would like. Bags, scales, grabbers, gloves, nets and more can be provided upon request. For more information and a signup sheet, visit: http://bit.ly/RiverCleanup2017.

Third Sunday 2:00pm – 4:00pm

HIGH SPRINGS - 120 NW 2nd Ave. A free concert featuring artists from all over North Florida.

Performances take place at locations in and around the James Paul Park area.

SESQUISENSATIONAL: 150 YEARS OF MATHESON HISTORY Saturday, Nov. 4 5:30pm – 9:30pm

GAINESVILLE - Matheson History Museum, 513 East University Ave. This year, the historic 1867 Matheson House is turning 150 years young! This event will honor five families whose ancestors were in Alachua County 150 years ago and have made a significant contribution to our community’s history. The evening will include cocktails and tours of the 1867 Matheson. Dinner will be served inside the museum, where fifteen themed tables representing each decade from the1860s to the present. www.mathesonmuseum.org.

BLUE STAR MEMORIAL MARKER DEDICATION

Through Nov. 30

NEWBERRY MAIN STREET FALL FESTIVAL Saturday, Nov. 4 9:00am – 4:00pm

NEWBERRY - Downtown Newberry. This 11th annual festival will feature an assortment of ventures and activities. newberrymainstreet.com

BIKERS ON PARADE 2017 Sunday, Nov. 5 8:00am – 2:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83 St. The staging lot opens at 8:00am and kickstands up at 11:00am. The ride ends at Gainesville Raceway with an after party of live music, BBQ, beer and raffles! This event is presented by the Community Sponsors and 10 CAN, Inc. is the benefiting charity. www.GainesvilleHarley.com/—bop.

Saturday, Nov. 4 10:00am

WRITERS ALLIANCE OF GAINESVILLE

GAINESVILLE - Veteran’s Memorial Park, 7400 SW 41 Pl. This event in support, respect, and honor for the military and hosted by the Gainesville Garden Club and the Gainesville Elks Lodge 990. Reception will follow dedication in the Freedom Center. 352-332-6341.

Sunday, Nov. 5 2:30pm — 4:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Millhopper Branch Library, 3145 NW 43rd St. Free and open to anyone interested in readings of prize-winning work from the organization’s eighth annual international

print journal, Bacopa Literary Review 2017.

Refreshments and conversation afterward with journal editors and local writers and poets. www. writersalliance.org.

GABRIEL FAURE’S REQUIEM Sunday, Nov. 5 4:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 100 NE 1st St. The Annual All Saints’ Concert features The Holy Trinity Choir, Chamber Orchestra, and guest artists Dance Alive National Ballet. The concert is presented free of charge and a reception (wine and hors d’oeuvres) follows the concert. 352-372-4721 x. 120.

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW Thru Nov. 5 Times vary

GAINESVILLE - Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S Main St. Brad and Janet are a simple engaged couple whose lives get turned upside down by the “sweet transvestite” Frank ‘n Furter and his household of strange Transylvanians on a stormy night. Sing along to this cult favorite and prepare to have the time of your life!

352-234-6278.

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UF HEALTH SEMINAR & TOUR Nov. 8 – 9 Times vary

GAINESVILLE - 1505 SW Archer Road, UF Health will host three events over two days for an informative update from UF Health providers on heart and neuro care in the community. Registration is required as seating is limited, and the seminars include lunch or dinner, free parking and a tour of the new hospitals (UF Health Heart & Vascular Hospital and UF Health Neuromedicine Hospital) following each presentation. 352-733-0000.

GAINESVILLE FOOD FEST Thursday, Nov. 9 5:30pm – 8:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83 St., Bring your family, friends & appetites to enjoy great food from over 40 of Gainesville’s most popular restaurants. General Admission is only $10, and VIP Tickets available are only $25. To purchase tickets ahead of time, visit: www.gainesvillefoodfest.com

PARTNERSHIP FOR STRONG FAMILIES SUPERHERO 5K Saturday, Nov. 11 7:00am - 12:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th St. Calling all superheroes! Partnership for Strong Families’ Superhero 5K Run/Walk is a family-friendly event that invites superheroes of all ages and experience levels to dress as their favorite superhero and race to the finish. Funds raised from this event will go toward finding forever families for children awaiting their permanent homes. Directly after the 5K, there will be a Superhero After Party to recognize some amazing Adoptive Families. www.PSFSuperhero5k.org.

VETERAN’S DAY SPECIAL Saturday, Nov. 11 Times Vary

GAINESVILLE - Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Dr. Any enlisted or retired military get free admission into the Gardens on this day as a thank you to their service to the country! 352-372-4981.

array of food. More than 100,000 art lovers will fill the streets to enjoy and purchase one-of-akind artwork. This is a free event. www.gainesvilledowntownartfest.org.

ages will delight in this Broadway hit which was nominated for three Tony Awards – including Best Musical. 352-375-4477.

CALL TO ARTISTS

Nov. 25 – Dec. 22 Times vary

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Beginning Nov. 14 Times vary

NEWBERRY - Newberry Main Street’s “Fire House Gallery,” 25435 W. Newberry Road. Artists are invited to submit two pieces of artwork up to 18x24 or one piece up to 24x36. Artwork should represent the theme for the exhibit. Acceptance is first come first serve. Drop-off is Tuesday, Nov. 14 or Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 11:00am – 3:00pm.

Pick-up will be Tuesday, Jan. 31 or Wednesday, Feb. 1 from 11:00am – 3:00pm. Reception is Friday, Dec. 1 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Contact Linda Lehrman at 352-222-8209 or Peggy Loy at 352-363-4262.

BOOK DISCUSSION AND SIGNING: IDYLWILD COWGIRLS Thursday, Nov. 16 6:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Matheson History Museum, 513 East University Ave. Local author Debra Segal to discuss her young adult adventure novel, Idylwild Cowgirls. Set in 1973, the book follows a group of adventurous young cowgirls through their many escapades along the roads and trails of rural south Gainesville. A book signing to follow the presentation. 352-378-2280.

BEEKEEPING SERIES GARDENING & BEES Saturday, Nov. 18 9:00am – 12:00pm

GAINESVILLE - UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County, 2800 NE 39 Ave. This series of classes are designed for the beginner and intermediate beekeepers. The classes are scheduled to help you manage the needs of the hive throughout the year. Live bees will be used; please dress in protective clothing. Registration fee for this class is $5.00. Contact Tatiana Sanchez, Commercial Horticulture Agent, at 352-955-2402.

A YEAR WITH FROG & TOAD 36TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL & ART SHOW

Nov. 24 – Dec. 17 Times vary

Nov. 11 & 12 Times vary

GAINESVILLE - The Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. A whimsical musical that tells the tale of two best friends: the easy-going Frog and the curmudgeonly Toad. The story follows Frog and Toad through four colorful seasons, along with their lively, quirky friends Snail, Turtle, the Birds, and more. This holiday season, audiences of all

GAINESVILLE - Downtown. The streets of historic downtown Gainesville, from City Hall to the Hippodrome State Theatre will be transformed into a celebration of art and creativity complete with live music, performing arts and a spectacular

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GAINESVILLE - The Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. Share the joy of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The Hipp’s production carries the timeless messages of redemption, charity, and goodwill in a heartfelt, traditional adaptation.

The perfect way to spend time with your loved ones at the holidays. 352-375-4477.

ST. ANDREW’S DAY SERVICE Sunday, Nov. 26 5:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 100 NE 1st St., The Annual St. Andrew’s Day Service features music by the Holy Trinity Choir, Bagpipes, and Scottish singing and dancing.

Come, and wear your kilt! The service is presented free of charge and a reception (wine and hors d’oeuvres) follows the concert. 352372-4721 x. 120.

2017 SUWANNEE VALLEY WATERMELON INSTITUTE IN GAINESVILLE Thursday, Nov. 30 1:00pm – 7:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Straughn IFAS Extension Professional Development Center, 2142 Shealy Dr. The University of Florida IFAS Extension agents in the Suwannee Valley of North Florida and the Suwannee River Partnership are planning the annual Suwannee Valley Watermelon Institute including educational sessions, an industry trade show, and dinner. The objective of the meeting is to gather watermelon producers from the Suwannee Valley and surrounding areas to meet. 352-294-2917.

DUDLEY FARM FALL FARM AND CANE FESTIVAL Saturday, Dec. 2 9:00am - 3:00pm

NEWBERRY - Dudley Farm Historic State Park, 18730 W. Newberry Road. See an original Florida working farm from the post-Civil War to the 1940s as they grind sugar cane using mule power and boil it into cane syrup. See old-time craft demonstrations, such as grinding corn into cornmeal, ironsmithing, woodworking, and washday demonstrations. There will also be children’s activities and toys, old-time music, quilt drawing and vendors are featured on this living history day. www.friendsofdudleyfarm.org.

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SONGS OF THE SEASON Saturday, Dec. 9 1:30pm & 4:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Gainesville: 4225 NW 34th St., A Holiday concert by the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus & the Barbergators Chorus.

FROZEN SILENT GALA CHRISTMAS BANQUET Saturday, Dec. 9 6:00pm – 9:00pm

GAINESVILLE - 3575 NE 15th St. This is the 4th Annual Silent Gala Christmas Banquet.

Invite friends and come and enjoy this beautiful day. Dress Attire: Formal. Please no jean no open shoe like sandal shoe. This is a Formal Event so dress to impress. Silent Gala background: The focus is to help every deaf family or any family that has a deaf child. If you have any questions, please email Silentgala2015@gmail.com.

THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 15 - Dec. 17 Times vary

GLAM Craft Show Sunday, Dec. 3

10:00am - 4:00pm

GAINESVILLE - First Magnitude, 1220 SE Veitch St. GLAM Craft Show provides shoppers the opportunity to purchase unique holiday gifts made right here in the local community. 352-234-6614.

CRAFT FESTIVAL 2017 Dec. 2 & 3 10:00am – 5:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Stephen C. O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Drive. This annual event showcases crafts that are authentically made by talented artisans and crafters. The festival provides an excellent opportunity to shop for unique merchandise and gifts and features hundreds of different vendors. Come find something special for yourself or that hard to shop for person in your life. Contact Tiffany Griffith at 352-392-7238.

ANNIE Thru Dec. 3 Times vary

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. In the depths of the 1930s, Annie is a fiery young orphan girl who must live in a miserable orphanage 114 |

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run by the tyrannical Miss Hannigan. Unlike most of the other children at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, spunky Annie’s seemingly hopeless situation changes dramatically when she is selected to spend a short time at the residence of the wealthy Oliver Warbucks. Fun for the whole family, you will leave humming songs like Tomorrow, Maybe, It’s a hard knock life, and many more. 352-376-4949.

ARTUSICWEST Saturday, Dec. 9 10:00am – 5:00pm

NEWBERRY * Canterbury Equestrian Facility, 23100 W. Newberry Rd. A showcase event of local artists, vendors and local musicians, with food and artwork available for purchase.

The facility also features a horse show in the covered arena that guests are welcome to watch. Free parking, entrance and music!

352-328-6112.

GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, SW 34th St. and Hull Road. Become entranced by the beauty of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her dazzling court, enchanted by the swirling snowflakes and breathtaking snow, and cheer for the tiny toy soldiers and their leader, the handsome Nutcracker Prince. A sparkling production with beautiful costumes and sets, this is truly... ‘the all-time family favorite.’ “Entrancing, enchanting and exciting, The Nutcracker is a ballet for the young at heart of all ages.” 352/392-ARTS performingarts.ufl.edu.

RARE, BEAUTIFUL & FASCINATING: 100 YEARS @ FLORIDAMUSEUM Thru Jan. 7 Times vary

GAINESVILLE - Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road. The Florida Museum marks its 100th anniversary as the state’s official natural history museum with a free exhibit highlighting objects from its collections! The “Rare, Beautiful & Fascinating” exhibit showcases some of the Museum’s most treasured objects and features scientists in a working lab, extinct species, a 26-footlong humpback whale skeleton and a 3-D printer in action. www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/exhibits/100-years.

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tis th

es n DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS

THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 15TH & 16TH | 7:30 PM and DEC. 16TH & 17TH | 2 PM

The all-time family favorite.

MOMMY & ME DECEMBER 13TH | 5 PM

A special experience for that very special child.

ALL AT THE CURTIS M. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS. Tickets available at:

352-392-ARTS 800-905-ARTS

(toll-free)

or online at:

performingarts.ufl.edu More information available at dancealive.org or email: dalive@bellsouth.net Photos Pho tos by by:: AAni ni Col Collie lier,r, Col Collee leenn RRand and an andd Moni Monica ca Sue Ni Niels elsen en

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BAND B BA ND REVIEW

BRIAN “KRASH” KRUGER’S

Gate Crashing ON DECK: RAMOSPINTA, BOILIN’ OIL, JAZZOLOGY, MAMA TRISH VS GODZILLA, HAIL CASSIUS NEPTUNE BRIAN KRUGER IS A WRITER, MUSICIAN AND A GRADUATE OF THE UF COLLEGE OF LAW. HE HAS PLAYED IN SOME 17 OR SO LOCAL BANDS, PLAYING MOST EVERY GAINESVILLE VENUE FRIENDLY TO ORIGINAL MUSIC (AND SOME NOT SO FRIENDLY). bkrashpad@yahoo.com

DATE: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2017 VENUE: BO DIDDLEY DOWNTOWN PLAZA

they mentioned that any of the songs were originals, I missed it, but conversely the (apparent) traditionals they played were not so popular or commonplace that I recognized any of them (admittedly I’m no bluegrass expert) with the exception of reetings, live music aficionados! This installBill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys’ “Y'all Come.” As with ment finds us at the Bo Diddley Plaza, downthe predecessor band, the songs were all sung and played well. town, for this year’s “Labor Daze” event, founded by Genre-appropriate, the leads tended towards the banjo and local muso and activist Mama Trish in 2011. Labor Daze celemandolin, with the guitar and bass playing more rhythm roles. brates working families, just like the official holiday, but with Third up, after local activist Nkwanda Jah, executive director music, food, and more (lots of group “tabling,” vendors, a rock of the Cultural Arts Coalition, and city commissioner Harvey wall, etc.), in addition to the usual speakers. (Disclosure: my Ward, spoke, was quintet Jazzology, whose name should band played the first two events, and I’ve subsequently helped tell you what genre they played. Like many local out volunteering.) bands not specializing in original music, their The first band up, after local union activist membership is apparently a somewhat Jeremiah Tatersall spoke, was the Latin Jazzology’s fluid collective, as last year I saw them music trio Ramospinta. The lead singer was perhaps the at the Friends of Jazz Fest at Tioga played a Fender acoustic-electric guitar most diverse set of the as a sextet, with slightly different (with a distinctive Stratocaster headevent. Although all the songs members. The Labor Daze lineup of stock), accompanied by a drummer were within the broad rubric of the group was bass (the same musion cajon (literally, Spanish for “box;” cian from Ramospinta), drum kit, the player sits on the wooden box “ jazz,” the opener was more modern keyboard, sax, and a female lead and strikes it with his/her hands), soul, another song had a reggae singer from Atlanta sitting in. and a third member who alternated feel, and Coltrane’s bebop take Jazzology’s was perhaps the most (sometimes during the same song!) on “Favorite Things” made diverse set of the event. Although all between trumpet and a silver sparkle an appearance. the songs were within the broad rubric “P/J” (so named for being a combination of “jazz,” the opener was more modern soul of Fender’s Precision and Jazz models) style (complete with slightly risqué lyric), another bass. Their set began, somewhat incongruously, song had a reggae feel (difficult to pull off without with the song popularly known as “Volare,” which a guitar to scratch upstrokes), and Coltrane’s bebop take on was originally written and sung in Italian (not Spanish). The “Favorite Things” made an appearance. More: Brasil ‘66’s “So remainder of the entertaining set, however, was comprised Nice (Summer Samba),” almost a disco-jazz arrangement of of songs from across Latin America — Cuba, Colombia (the “My Funny Valentine,” Stevie Wonder’s funky “I Wish,” and percussionist’s country), Venezuela (the lead singer’s country), closer, Gloria Gaynor’s disco anthem “I Will Survive.” and Mexico (Richie Valens’ “La Bamba”), including a couple Mama Trish Vs. Godzilla was the penultimate band, after originals. The occasional instrumental leads were all by the city commissioner David Areola and Mayor Lauren Poe spoke. trumpet, one of which briefly quoted “Flight of the Bumblebee.”

With Trish providing electric guitar and lead vocals and a crack After Trish’s husband, James Ingle (of the International rhythm section (drums/bass), each of them also doing some Brotherhood of Electrical Workers local) spoke, local bluegrass great backing vocals (playing either of these 2 instruments and quartet Boilin’ Oil played. The lineup included gents on acoustic singing can be very difficult), their set was comprised of rock guitar, banjo, and mandolin, and a gal on acoustic (stand-up) covers and a somewhat larger portion, of Trish’s originals. The bass. The guitarist and mandolinist traded off on lead vocals. If

G

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Hail Cassius Neptune

Boilin’ Oil

Mama Trish vs Godzilla

former included R.E.M.’s “Life’s Rich Demands,” Rufus & Chaka Khan’s “Tell Me Something Good,” Billy Joel’s “Moving Out,” and the Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” Even though I’m a big fan of both R.E.M. and the Who, truthfully I enjoyed the originals more, particularly Trish’s more activist songs. “Let Them Eat Cake” and “God Save the Queens” especially are just great anthemic songs.

Closing was Gainesville band Hail Cassius Neptune, who have now moved up to North Carolina, but came back to play Labor Daze. The sextet included guitar (a Gibson SG for those of you scoring at home), a 6-string bass, keyboards, a full drum kit, and a second percussionist (with a floor tom, smaller tom, and cymbal), and a female singer. These were supremely gifted instrumentalists, with a fine lead vocalist (the bassist also sang backing vocals), when she sang (there were long stretches of instrumental music with no vocals). They had fun on stage and got a good reaction, but the music was just too proggy for my tastes. Many in the crowd obviously disagreed.

Now, go see some bands.

Jazzology

Ramospinta

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GIVING BACK >> LOCAL CHARITIES

HELPING HANDS

Giving Back Charitable Organizations Making a Difference Around Town W RIT TE N BY C A MERON COBB

I

t’s easy to get caught up in the celebratory chaos during the holidays as you count your blessings without realizing their absence in the lives of others.

Thankfully, plenty of local groups offer opportunities to help get involved, so there’s always a chance to be a part of a greater purpose. And while charity may begin at home, it certainly doesn’t have to end there.

Below are just a few of the many charitable organizations that give back to our communities — specifically for the homeless, children, veterans, and animals. Hopefully you’ll feel inspired to get to know these giving groups and explore many others, too.

ST. FRANCIS HOUSE Mission: “To empower families with children to transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency by providing case management, housing, food, training and educational resources in a secure environment.”

St. Francis House (SFH) is located on 413 S. Main Street in Gainesville and was established in 1980, according to stfrancishousegnv.org. This 118 |

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organization aims to empower families and their children by providing transitional assistance from being homeless to becoming self-sufficient.

SFH features a wide range of services, including but not limited to: lunch provided daily and open to the public, access to laundry facilities, free public phone use, tutoring for children, showers, clothing

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

— MAHATMA GANDHI

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and personal hygiene items, and bus passes, according to their website.

Outside of simply tangible offerings, SFH provides a plethora of professional and educational resources to assist the specific needs of different individuals. Some of these include tutoring, victim advocacy, job opportunities, life-skills development classes and GED certificates, all from the comfort of a safe, peaceful environment.

Along with this, SFH serves roughly 200 lunches daily to the public, owns over 30 apartments to provide solutions for specific members needing permanent housing, temporary shelter for 35 individuals, and 60 beds during days of drastic weather, according to their website.

The efforts and successes of SFH wouldn’t be possible without funding from donations, volunteer involvement, and support from partners and the community. stfrancishousegnv.org

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

— WINSTON CHURCHILL

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB Mission: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of Alachua County is located on 2661 NW 51st Street with a total of three locations in Gainesville: Northwest Club, 2700 NW 51st Street; Woodland Park Club, 1900 SE 4th Street; and Southeast Rotary Club, 1100 SE 17th Drive.

According to bgca.org, Boys & Girls Clubs offer children and teenagers the chance to begin developing necessary life skills, the opportunity to build and maintain positive relationships, and overall a place to have fun in a safe and supportive environment surrounded by mentors.

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Boys & Girls Clubs of America has been enhancing the lives of children and volunteers alike for over 100 years. The organization originally began in 1906, after a few Boys Clubs officially banded together. This led to the formation of the Federated Boys Clubs in Boston, which included 53 member organizations and created a nationwide movement, according to myboysandgirlsclub.com.

Overtime, the organization expanded, and eventually the name changed in 1990 to Boys & Girls Clubs of America in recognition of the important part girls hold in the movement.

Thanks to the hard work of all involved with Boys & Girls Clubs, “97% of Club teens expect to graduate from high school and 88% expect to complete some kind of post-secondary education, 74% of Club youth volunteer in their community at least once a year, and 90% of members who attend Clubs regularly say they can stand up for what is right, even if their friends disagree,” according to BGCA youth outcome data listed on bgca.org. myboysandgirlsclub.org

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Whether you’re looking to build new or just keep your current pool sparkling, we can help. Look to us for prompt, professional service at a reasonable price. Call today!

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VETSPACE, INC. Mission: “To provide homeless veterans with resources, services, and referrals necessary to facilitate and maintain independent residential and employment/ financial stability.”

VETSPACE, which stands for “Veterans Providing a Caring Environment,” is located at 1220 NE 8th Ave., Suite A in Gainesville. This organization provides bridge housing to homeless veterans, offering a helping hand to their families too.

In 1999, VETSPACE was awarded its first supportive housing grant, and the nonprofit wasted no time in sheltering its first homeless veteran in 2000, according to vetspace.org. The organization started out by providing assistance in any possible way they could — whether that be covering the cost for a bus ticket back home for a terminally ill veteran, bicycles for those in need of transportation, helping to insure a veteran had necessary tools, uniforms and licenses for work, celebrating Christmas with children of homeless veterans and much more.

According to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there are nearly 40,000 homeless veterans on any given night, with 11 percent of the overall homeless population being those of veteran status.

VETSPACE relies on the generosity of individuals who support the organization’s dedicated, ongoing work of helping homeless veterans. vetspace.org

“Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.”

— EDMUND BURKE

MILL CREEK FARM Mission: “To provide lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks” (millcreekfarm.org) Retirement Home for Horses is located at 20307 NW C.R. 235A in Alachua. The organization provides care, attention and a forever home for rescued horses (not from private owners).

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with the purchase of 140 acres of land in Alachua. The area has since been expanded to 335 acres, and over time hundreds of horses have found freedom and an escape from past lives filled with neglect and abuse, according to millcreekfarm.org.

Retirement Home for Horses provides its four-legged residents with food, treats and water, weekly grooming, veterinary care, and an unlimited supply of love and compassion — something these animals might’ve never had the chance to experience prior to their “retirement.” The organization operates under the promise that its horses “will never be ridden or worked again and that they can

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

— MAYA ANGELOU roam freely and live out their life here in tranquility,” according to millcreekfarm.org.

Sadly, in 2014, Peter passed away, though his son, Paul, lives with Mary on the farm and helps to carry out his father’s dream for loving and caring for these gentle giants. The organization currently houses and attends to more than 130 horses, along with three dogs and two cats, according to millcreekfarm.org.

With the annual cost of maintaining the farm around $350,000, donations are crucial for continuing the current and future efforts of the Retirement Home for Horses.

Along with funding, the organization is supported by the hard work of volunteers, crediting their efforts for up keeping the farm and the lives of the horses who have a home there, according to millcreekfarm. org. The Retirement Home for Horses invites visitors to come out on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with an admission price of merely two carrots. millcreekfarm.org Anne Frank said, “How wonderful that no one need wait a single moment to improve the world.”

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COLUMN

FARM TALES

From Mother Hen LITTLE PAPER BAGS

MOTHER HEN IS PROUD TO BE A “BABY BOOMER” RAISED ON A FARM POPULATED BY DOGS, CATS, CHICKENS, DUCKS, GEESE, HORSES AND COWS. THE WISDOM SHE GAINED WHILE GROWING UP IN THE COUNTRY CAN’T BE FOUND IN BOOKS. YOU CAN CONTACT MOTHER HEN AT motherhenfarmtales@gmail.com.

I’M A PRODUCT OF THE 1950s – THE TAIL END OF THE BABY BOOMERS, THE GENERATION THAT TURNED EVERYTHING UPSIDE DOWN.

U

ntil then, “children were seen and not heard.”

However, when the tidal wave of newborns were born nine months after our soldiers returned from WWII, retailers soon discovered that it was a good idea to cater their products to these little consumers.

It’s been that way ever since.

At every stage of this generation’s life a new improved invention or discovery hass come along to make our life better in somee way. When we were babies our motherss didn’t have the convenience of disposable diapers. Years later, the Baby Boomers started having babies of their own and you better believe we came up with a more convenient solution.

Throughout the years more and more conveniences such as contacts instead of eyeglasses, or more stylish frames for those who chose to wear glasses evolved. There used to be only a handful of frame styles to choose from, and believe me – they weren’t made by designers.

As we have aged, another example is the simple home hair color products we use to cover those grays. Grandmothers used to look like grandmothers because hair coloring was unheard of.

Not anymore. Thank you, Miss Clairol.

Obviously most of these changes have made a positive impact on society, but some could argue to go back to the good old days. I was sharing some memories in a conversation with my daughters recently (who I lovingly refer to as my three chicks) and I realized how little they know of my childhood and youth. It’s a very different world now. This is the inspiration for my column where I will jot down my memories for them, and you dear readers, hoping it will bring you a smile or trigger a memory of your own to resurface. For those of you too young to remember, I hope it will inspire you to take a few minutes for yourself each day to “stop and smell the roses.” (Yes, you will

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be reading quite a few quips like this in the months to come.)

So, let’s begin with my earliest memory. I was an only child, growing up in the country. I’m not sure how old I was at the time, but old enough to stand at the window as night began to fall and watch for my father to return home from working in the fields all day. His truck had a distinctive row of lights above the cab of the truck and I knew it was him when I saw those lights. All little girls adore their daddies, and I wasn’t any different. I loved his aroma of gasoline from the tractors he drove mixed with the earthy smell of the black soil on his clothes. I worked myself up in excitement watching those lights come up the long lane to our cottage in the timber. I would run to greet him at the door, and usually the most he could muster up in u his fatigue from a hard day’s work was a h pat on the head. p Then, suddenly, he started coming in the door with a small paper bag that had a th treat inside. It wasn’t every day, but sevtr eral times a week, I would say. Sometimes er it w was a bit of candy, a little bracelet, or maybe a trinket from a bubble gum machine. mayb I was thrilled, and I felt so loved. My father was a quiet man of few words, and being the hard-working farmer he was we had little interaction or playtime. Those little paper bags with surprises inside meant the world to me.

It wasn’t until I was an adult, with a child of my own, that I asked my mother how Dad ever found time to go to town and get me a surprise before coming home for dinner. Mother reluctantly told me that it was she who bought the trinkets and would leave them outside the door for him to give me when he came home. She saw how disappointed I was when my understandably exhausted father walked past me, and she came up with a solution of her own. Her selfless act gave me the love from my father that I was seeking. And she kept her precious secret for more than thirty years.

I am the product of the 1950s. I am also the product of being raised on a farm by hardworking, God-fearing parents. In my opinion, it doesn’t get much better than that.

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VOLUNTEER >> BOOTS ON THE ROOF

UP ON THE ROOFTOP

Boots on the Roof Giving Back to Veterans and Those in Need W RIT TE N BY S TE PH A NIE RICH A R DS

Y

ou could say that Christmas came e a r l y f o r Ja m e s a n d Clarissa Green of Archer as they welcomed the sound of Boots on the

Roof in October.

The boots were not Santa’s, but that of volunteers putting a new roof on the Green’s double wide trailer through a community service program called Boots on the Roof.

Created five years ago by members of the North Central Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (NCFRSA), the program provides roofs for families in the local community who cannot afford it. NCFRSA members donate the cost of materials, permits, labor and dumpsters needed to complete most projects.

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time in the Mediterranean on the USS John F. Kennedy guarding nuclear weapons. He spent his last year and a half as part of an elite Marine Recon unit, working his way up to Sergeant. Born in Plant City, but raised in Newberry, Green came home with hopes and dreams of being a farmer. “Farming had changed and it was difficult to make a living.

I invested heavily in pigs but ended up having to sell them,” said the 62-year-old. “I went back to what I had done in high school, being a meat cutter, and worked at Newberry Cold Storage and mostly at Hitchcock’s.”

Green has diabetes and developed Charcot foot, a complication of the disease. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the condition deforms the shape of the foot and can lead to disability. “I wasn’t walking well and went to the doctor,” said Green, who moved to Archer 23 years ago.

Boots on the Roof completed two re-roof projects for veterans this year. In June, a project was done for veteran Alton and Freda Jenkins of Orange Heights. North Central Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (NCFRSA) president Chris Tenney (left), stops for a photo with Alton Jenkins. Volunteers from NCFRSA donated their time to install the metal roof on the Jenkins’ home.

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Chris Tenney (above, left), owner of Godwin Green Roofing, helps a volunteer put down a moisture barrier in preparation for new shingles.

McFall Residential Roofing volunteers begin work on installing a new roof for Marine veteran James and Clarissa Green of Archer.

Fourteen roof projects for those in need have been completed through NCFRSA’s Boots on the Roof program.

Chris Tenney of NCFRSA’s Boots on the Roof program (far left) with Marine veteran James and Clarissa Green of Archer. The couple received a new roof in October through the program.

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and Girls Club of Gainesville.

Shingles and other materials for the roof projects are usually donated by NCFRSA members. “We reach out to our supply houses, such as ABC, Gulfeagle and Gulf Coast Supply, as well as manufacturers,” he said.

“Once in a while materials are donated, like from Home Depot for this project, but usually members of the association supply materials as well as the labor.

For example, I had expensive shingles left over from a job and the material couldn’t be returned. We were able to put a roof on a small house in High Springs with it.”

“Our motivation is that we can see the good it has done in the community.” worse than I thought.”

Home Depot donated the materials for this roof project and the association volunteered the labor.

“They worked to get the funding and people (labor) together,” Green said. “It has been a long, but worthwhile process. They are putting a roof on our home that we wouldn’t be able to. It is truly an amazing program that helps people.”

The original date of the roof project was scheduled the day after Hurricane Irma hit, so it had to be delayed. Volunteers from McFall Residential Roofing and Godwin Green Roofing completed this project over two days in October. “As roofers, we have all been very busy after Hurricane Irma, but we were committed to it,” said Chris Tenney, NCFRSA president and owner of Godwin Green Roofing. “We have done a lot of other pro bono work since then too.”

The program was created as a way to impact and give back to the local community. “We wanted to give back to the community and the best way we knew how was to install new roofs for people in need.

We initially just asked people if they knew of a need through family, friends or church members. The first project we did was in December for a widow with children,” said Tenney, who has been doing roofing for 18 years. “The next year we did two projects and then it grew to three a year.”

To date, 14 roofs have been completed in Gainesville and the surrounding area. Tenney said most homes are less than 2,000 square feet and take six to eight hours to completely roof. The average donation with materials and labor is between $5,000 to $6,000. All have been residential projects, except one that was for the Pavilion/ Bath House at the Boys

VOLUNTEER >> BOOTS ON THE ROOF

“They took x-rays and said I had Charcot foot and my bones were dissolved and separated. I had surgery and could no longer stand for long periods of time to work — that is how I became disabled.”

One day Green said he noticed some shingles were missing from the roof. “I knew we weren’t financially able to do anything about it. I started asking around if there were any programs that would cover at least the cost of materials,” he said. “Several people told me to get a hold of NCFRSA and I found out about the Boots on the Roof program. After I filled out an application, they came out to assess the roof. It was

As the program grew so did inquiries, so the association had to create an application form and selection process. Tenney said Rebuilding Together North Central Florida helps facilitate getting candidates for projects. “Sometimes we have gone and interviewed candidates. A few years ago we had two candidates and couldn’t decide, so we committed to do both,” he said.

The focus of this year’s efforts has been on helping veterans and this is the second project completed.

Tenney said a few years ago the association partnered with Habitat for Humanity to do a veteran’s roof. He said although all projects are worthwhile, something stood out about it that was different for everyone involved.

Tenney said it is fulfilling to be involved in helping those who need it the most. “Recipients are very emotional, and many cook us breakfast or lunch to show appreciation. Often when we do these jobs we see other needs and we try to help out where we can,” said Tenney, who took over operations of Godwin Green Roofing from his grandfather in 2009. “Our motivation is that we can see the good it has done in the community.”

As this issue was going to press, the association hadn’t yet determined their next candidate. “We don’t need the publicity, but it is good for the community to hear about these types of projects,” Tenney said. “I know I am extremely blessed as a business owner and it is the least I can do to give back to the community. If this is the sole purpose of the NCFRSA as a whole, then that is okay.”

For more information on the Boots on the Roof program, check out their website at northcentralfloridaroofers.com.

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GIVING >> MARC WOODSTUFF

PAYING IT FORWARD

The Good Stuff Marc Woodstuff ’s Life of Giving W R I T T E N B Y K A I T L I N A P P L E G AT E

I

magine a tent patched with holes being the place you call home.

While inside, heat slips from your shivering limbs. As your stomach churns, your tired mind struggles to ask where you will get your next meal. For thousands of homeless residents living in Alachua County, this situation is their current reality.

In the face of poverty, our community has been granted a hero. But he doesn't wear neon tights.

Nor is he a political typhoon, armed with a Ph.D. and unlimited resources. This local hero is a father, financial advisor, and a soccer coach on the side. He drinks an extra shot of espresso every once in a while, and sometimes gets stuck behind the railroad tracks on his way to work, like most Newberry residents.

Marc Woodstuff leads a normal life, but has made an abnormal choice to make giving a priority.

The motivations behind combating poverty

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can be complex and varied. However, Woodstuff’s charitable drive started with a simple joy. “I love to cook,” Woodstuff said. “I believe that I can reach people through their bellies.” Woodstuff’s love for feeding people became the starting point for feeding the homeless.

Despite Woodstuff’s desire to serve Gainesville’s homeless community, his initial reaction to local poverty was not easy to process. After reading about Dignity Village’s compassionate, but declining atmosphere in the newspaper, Woodstuff saw an opportunity to connect his love for feeding people with service. Woodstuff partnered with a team of volunteers, and went out for his first service project at Dignity Village in the middle of a frigid November. “My first thought was shock,” Woodstuff said. "Dignity Village has a population that is about 200 people in a centralized area. And you see their lifestyle; living in tents that have holes in them."

PHOTOGRAPHY: SARAH BRIGHT

Marc Woodstuff poses for a photo at Abundant Grace Community Church in Gainesville. His life motto is to “give sacrificially.”

Through his work at Dignity Village, Destiny Community Church and Thrivent, Woodstuff strives to contunie to give back as much as he can.

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Although jarred by the abundance of needs, the team came prepared to provide a hot meal and long term warmth for the residents there. “I collected fifteen hundred pounds of jackets and blankets and they were gone in four minutes,” Woodstuff said. “I left there thinking that I didn't do good enough.”

Despite his discouragement, Woodstuff and his team managed to feed over 200 people that day.

Since then, Woodstuff has allowed his initial shock and struggle to fuel his generosity.

Professionally, Woodstuff works as a holistic financial consultant for Thrivent, a Christian based, not-for-profit company that provides financial counseling to its clients. For his first service project in conjunction with Thrivent, Woodstuff organized a feed the homeless event sponsored by the company.

So, in the Fall of 2016, Marc, along with his family and friends, ventured over to Dignity Village to provide a hearty meal and clothing for the community there. “The response was overwhelming,” Woodstuff said. In addition to his team, a youth group from Lake Butler came to help with the event. Woodstuff had no idea that this team was going to come until an hour and a half before the event started.

“We got to do so much more because they showed up,” Woodstuff said. This event allowed Woodstuff’s community and a youth group that he had not previously met to come together and meet a common need. Ultimately, because of the extra help, Woodstuff and his new team were able to exceed their original goals and met other needs as well, like picking up trash around the property.

Woodstuff’s willingness to serve produced a domino effect that not only impacted the residents of Dignity Village, but also inspired others in Florida’s community to give generously of their time.

Christian faith is at the center of Woodstuff’s ability to inspire others. For Woodstuff, his faith in Jesus Christ is what shapes his view on compassion.

“My Christianity is to love all people,” Woodstuff said. "It's being able to see a need and loving the person enough to serve the need." This personal belief has not only shaped how Woodstuff uses his time and resources, but also how he leads his family.

Currently, the Woodstuff family attends Destiny Community Church. Marc and his wife Rachael started attending the church because they “wanted something different for our kids.” Since then, the couple’s faith in God has grown, and inspires them to raise their kids in a lifestyle of generosity.

“We get one shot,” Woodstuff said, in reference to Rachael and himself when asked about their OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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Marc Woodstuff (top) thanks the volunteers from Destiny Community Church for helping to distribute toiletries and snacks at Dignity Village.

Children and parents (above) from Destiny Community Church listen as Marc Woodstuff explains how they as a team will be serving Dignity Village.

Volunteers serve food (below) at Dignity Village in conjunction with Thrivent.

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Marc Woodstuff coaching The Rock School’s soccer team.

three children. While neither Marc nor Rachael claim perfec- day?’” At the table during Christmas dinner, this tradition becomes a special experience. Woodstuff, who placed his tion, they are committed to raising their kids in faith. “We’re gonna screw up,” Woodstuff said, “but we prioritize our church, hands over his face in an attempt to contain his emotion during serving, giving, [and] being compassionate.” Together, they are the interview, said that his kid’s favorite part of the day on Christmas is not about the gifts, it is about how they loved getworking to “raise children who are good stewards of their local ting to serve. Woodstuff’s eyes were still red and glossed when community,” he said.

One of the ways that the Woodstuffs put their faith into he said, “That's a generational, transformative thing.” After the excitement of gifts has waned, the spirit of generosity remains practice each year is on Christmas morning. "Before we open in the Woodstuff household, up a stocking, before we open and in the hearts of the people up presents, we go out and they help. serve our local community," For those who are ready Woodstuff said. So, for the past to live generously, Woodstuff two years, the Woodstuffs go offers this encouragement: downtown on Christmas morn“There’s definitely a way in ing, three kids in all, and give out each community that you breakfast. live in, whether it be locally "Whoever we encounter in Gainesville, or in New York that day, they love interacting City, that you can find chariwith my kids,” Woodstuff said. ties that are into feeding the Furthermore, he related what homeless. You can partner a joy it is “when you see people The Woodstuff family with wife Rachael, husband Marc, 5-year-old with organizations that are that haven't smiled in a while Cohen (pictured on the left), 3-year-old Wren (center), and 9-yearalready doing it well, they just just beaming from ear to ear old Rosslyn (right). need extra support.” Woodstuff because my kid's dancing on the sidewalk and just having fun.” Woodstuff said that the people said “a good initial step is to volunteer one night" for an established local organization. While poverty in Alachua County is they meet have often lost touch with their families, so sitting and talking with them is meaningful. “God has blessed our family overwhelming, so is the positive impact that can be made by one individual. so that we can be a blessing to others,” he said.

From coaching soccer practice to getting through traffic on For Woodstuff and his kids, the joy of Christmas morning the way to drop his kids off at school, and everything in between, stays long after Christmas leaves. He said that one of their family traditions is “everyday, when we meet around the dinner Marc Woodstuff is proving that generosity is infectious — one family dinner at a time. table, we always talk about ‘what was your favorite part of the 134 |

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COLUMN

KENDRA SILER-MARSIGLIO’S

Healthy Edge TEACHING KIDS TO “PAY IT FORWARD”

KENDRA SILER-MARSIGLIO, PH.D. IS A NEUROSCIENTIST, MEDICAL WRITER, COLUMNIST AND PRESIDENT OF THE NON-PROFIT COMMUNITYHEALTH IT AT NASA/ KENNEDY SPACE CENTER. KENDRA ENJOYS TRAVELING, DANCING LIKE NO ONE’S WATCHING, AND LISTENING TO PEOPLE’S STORIES. kendra.sm@gmail.com

P

aying it forward is about performing “random” kindness and generosity, without having the expectation of a reward or recognition. What’s the pay-off for paying it forward? And, how can we, as parents, nurture kindness in our kids?

There’s a Confucius quote that, if followed, keeps us all from being “doormats” to others in our personal and professional lives. He said, “There is one word which may serve as a rule of practice for all one’s life: reciprocity.” (Many of us have had a “friend” that we support routinely and that friend is conspicuously missing when we need some help. Based on Confucius’ principle, if you or your kid has a “friend” like that, then you might want to re-think what that friendship means.)

Yet, how can you follow this principle of reciprocity and be generally kind and generous? What do you do when a person you’ll maybe never see again needs help, or you just want to pick up someone’s spirits?

There’s a scientific term that may shine light on how reciprocity and random kindness fit together. In research studies about altruism, kindness, and game theory, “paying it forward” is actually called “upstream reciprocity.”

A study performed by University of California professor of medical genetics and political science James Fowler, PhD showed that random acts of kindness receivers want to “reciprocate” the kindness they receive by paying it forward. Dr. Fowler found that one act of kindness typically had a multiplying effect, inspiring several acts of generosity down the line. Taking it a step further, Dr. Fowler’s work also showed that just witnessing or hearing about generosity inspires more acts of good. Dr. Fowler contends that humans often mimic behavior they see, including generosity.

Emory University found that kindness to another person activates pleasure and reward centers in the GIVER’S brain (as if the giver were on the receiving end). Psychologists who study generosity call this “helper’s high.”

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Science has shown that upstream reciprocity leads to the following benefits: • Increased happiness. A 2010 Harvard study showed that, worldwide, people who are charitable are happiest overall.

• Lowered cortisol (stress hormone). According to the DrGreene health education website, perpetually kind people have 23% less cortisol circulating in their bodies and age slower than the average population.

• Heightened self-worth and compassion. Witnessing acts of kindness produces oxytocin, which increases feelings of self-esteem, optimism, and empathy.

So, how do we help our kids embrace upstream reciprocity?

“It’s kind of like weight training, we found that people can actually build up their compassion ‘muscle’ and respond to others’ suffering with care and a desire to help.”

— Dr. Ritchie Davidson, University of Wisconsin

Try these tips: • Demonstrate a pay it forward lifestyle every day. Kids emulate what they see. What better way to teach kids to be kind than being kind ourselves?

• Plan how to celebrate “World Kindness Day” (November 13, 2017) and “Pay It Forward Day” (April 26, 2018). You’ll likely come up with so many great ideas that you may end up doing them weekly!

• Help promote a Pay It Forward culture at your child’s school. For some inspiration, check out Hidden Creek Elementary School in Washington: http://blogs.ibo.org/.

Need some ideas about what you and your child can do? Try these recommendations from the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation: • Write to a former teacher who made a difference in your life.

• Tape coins around a playground for kids to find.

• Send a “Thank you” note to the officers at your local fire station.

• Donate old towels or blankets to an animal shelter.

• Write a gratitude list.

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

— Winston Churchill

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KINDNESS >> CHRISTMAS MAGIC

HO, HO, HO!

Santa’s Shop A Couple Creates Christmas Magic for the Community S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY ERICK A WINTER ROW D

T

hree animatronic elves named Elmer, Elsie, and Elfis work diligently in Santa’s Shop. A blinking clock above them points to the word “work” while toy trains whiz by on surrounding tracks. Other fantastical figurines dance and move about; creating a scene that feels very much alive. Then all of a sudden the clock points to “play,” and the elves begin to take a well-deserved break. Their workshop tables flip over to display delightful treats, which prompts Elfis to start playing his guitar. Before you know it the whimsical clock reverts back to work mode, but the King of Rock n’ Roll is not yet finished with his mini concert. As he continues on with his guitar solo, Santa catches wind of his naughty antics. Obviously, Elfis forgot that Santa knows when you’ve been bad or good – so he better get back to work for goodness sake!

This story can be seen as a window display, located in the Brightway Insurance office of the Haile Village Center. The creators behind this magical scene are Haile Plantation residents Mike and Annelle Rigsby. The husband and wife team sought to give back to their community by sharing some holiday cheer. Mike, an electrical engineer, handles the technical side of the creation while Annelle, an artist, designs and paints all of the aesthetics.

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The Rigsbys spent over 2,000 hours creating Santa’s Shop.Ten Arduino microcontrollers and dozens of motors were combined with hundreds of 3D printed parts to make the display possible.

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Annelle said the two loved collaborating together because they were able to utilize their different strengths. “And we’ve been married 41 years, so I guess we make a good team, period,” she said with a chuckle.

Santa’s Shop received rave reviews during its debut last year, and since then the Rigsbys have been busy adding new elements to freshen up the scene. A flying reindeer ride as well as two more trains are a few of the new surprises onlookers can enjoy.

According to the couple, about 90 percent of the window display is handmade or very heavily modified.

Mike explained that now with 3D printing capabilities, they’re able to do so much more. Instead of buying toys for a project like this they can create their own, which they said has been the most exciting aspect of the project for them. Growing up in Chattanooga, Mike recalls his parents taking him to see Christmas window displays as a child. The experience left a lasting impression. “You don’t see as many department stores doing that now and we wanted to re-create that kind of magic,” he said.

The Rigsbys are seasoned creators when it comes to making movable scenes. In the early 90s the couple lived in Sanibel with their two young children, and had designed a Christmas display that remained in the public library there for many years. Then in 2013 they created “Froggy World,” which traveled to California for the Maker Faire.

The Rigsbys said they were surprised by the amount of positive attention their “Amusement Park for Adventurous Frogs” received, fascinating onlookers for hours.

Mike said there are 12 computers that control various aspects of Santa’s Shop, all of which he has programmed himself. However, he said there’s still one guy in particular that is the real director of the show. “Santa’s actually in charge,” Mike said. “He sends out the signal that tells everyone when to start [moving].”

Annelle quipped that this makes perfect sense. “Who else should be doing that?

Santa’s in charge,” she said with a laugh.

When they first started planning the display, the couple had many discussions about what would and should go on in Santa’s Shop, which they said became great fun. “It got to be very real in our minds,” Annelle

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said. “And we laugh because we would think of things like putting a snowman in, and then we’d say ‘no we can’t do that because he would melt!’”

Retro toy enthusiasts will delight in seeing some familiar faces, such as the B-9 Robot from “Lost in Space,” that are tucked into the display as well. Mike 3D printed the design for the well-known robot after heavily modifying it in order to fit the specific needs of the display. Gumby and Pokey figurines can also be spotted, along with an elf that bounces a slinky—an item that received a little tweaking this time around.

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“Last year the slinky was a little too long and it would occasionally get tangled up in Santa’s beard,” Mike said. “So after cutting him loose two or three times last year, I decided to shorten the slinky a little bit.”

Annelle first sketched the elf characters before creating clay models of their heads.

Using a 3D printer, Mike was able to make new versions of her models at a much lighter weight, which he could then wire and program as robots. The creations were then handed back to Annelle the artist, whose job she said was to “make it pretty.” Responsible for the costuming as well, she would have to make sure their outfits did not restrict any movement. “I’d have to see the movement

“We really wanted to share the joy of Christmas and the magical excitement of the season.” before I could do the costume,” Annelle said.

Mike explained that there were masses of wires she would have to be mindful of when dressing the robotic elves. “So she had to leave space in the costumes to get those wires out,” he said.

According to the couple, by the time they transport all of the pieces to the site and put them in place – it takes about a full day to set up the window display. “But it’s well worth it and it’s so exciting,” Annelle said. “To see people enjoying it and little children laughing. That is such a great gift for us.”

Barring any technical issues, Santa’s Shop is scheduled to be up and running the night of Saturday November 25. The whimsical scene will continue to spread Christmas joy every evening through December, from 5:30pm to 9pm.

Mike and Annelle said they are very

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KINDNESS >> CHRISTMAS MAGIC

Two 3D printers (above) helped produce many of the characters and set pieces found in Santa’s Shop.

A new feature to this year’s scene is the additon of the reindeer ride (left). Annelle also formed clay models for the smaller elves, dozens of animals and other parts seen in the Christmas display.

grateful to Kristy Moffat, the owner of Brightway Insurance, for graciously providing a home for their heartfelt creation. And as a testament to the popularity of Santa’s Shop, Annelle said the window required some occasional cleaning last year due to the little fingerprints and nose marks left on the glass by mesmerized children.

“We really wanted to share the joy of Christmas and the magical excitement of the season,” Annelle said. “And it’s a way to say thank you to our community, and to share what gifts God has blessed us with.”

To learn more about Santa’s Shop as well as other projects the Rigsbys have created, visit: misterengineer.com

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See the display starting November 25th before Haile Plantation’s “Light the Village” event, and continuing every night through December.

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