Our Town 2018 MAY-JUN (High Springs & Alachua)

3 4 T H S T R E E T WA L L V I B R A N T C U I S I N E S U M M E R VAC AT I O N S 2 018 D ECO R AT I N G T R E N D S

MAY/JUNE 2018 | VOL. 16 ISSUE 03

HIGH SPRINGS & ALACHUA EDITION

ADD A LITTLE

COLOR TO YOUR LIFE

Follow us on Facebook

1

2

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

Ronald Emerick, D.O.

Sarah Garrett, ARNP Levette Dunbar, M.D.

Lauren Womack, ARNP

Same-day Sick Visits Year-round Free Sports Physicals • Immunizations Flu Vaccines • Newborn Services at NFRMC Member of Peds After Hours in Gainesville Open M-F 8am–5pm Saturdays 9am-Noon 15260 NW 147 th Drive, Suite 200, Alachua

i ng cept s! c a Now patient new

386-518-0102

2 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

www.LittlePinePediatrics.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

EMERGENCY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

From Our Family to Yours

• IMPLANTS • PORCELAIN CROWNS & BRIDGES • COSMETIC DENTISTRY • INVISALIGN • ORAL SURGERY • DENTURES - PARTIALS • TMJ TREATMENTS

DR. PATTI WEBB & DR. JORDAN WEBB

352.378.2555 www.gainesvilledentist.com 3655 SW 2nd Avenue Gainesville, Florida MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 3

3

4

Solid Waste and Resource Recovery

Start

a recycling center in your own backyard.

Recycling your yard waste is good for everyone.

Composting yard waste such as grass clippings, leaves and twigs is easy.

By placing yard waste around the base of trees in your backyard or in a compost pile, you can improve your soil quality, and also reduce collection costs! That’s good news for the environment and your wallet.

So be a total recycler with orange and blue recycle bins in the front yard, and compost in the backyard.

(352) 338-3233 Composting.AlachuaCountyRecycles.com 4 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

The

Best Burgers

in town!

WEEKENDT BREAKFAS

SAT & SUN 8:30 am – 10:45 am

M O N D AY N I G H T S

$ 99

3 BURGERS! KIDS EAT FREE!* T U E S D AY N I G H T S

*One free kids meal with the purchase of one adult meal at full price. Valid for kids under 12 years old.

ALL YOU CAN EAT SPAGHETTI W E D N E S D AY N I G H T S

ALL YOU CAN EAT WINGS! with Fries + Cole Slaw $ T H U R S D AY

15.99

2 Fried Pork Chop Dinner with Two Sides $ S U N D AY

12.99

6oz NY Strip Dinner with Two Sides $

10.99

SEPARATE FULL LIQUOR BAR WITH 7 TVS!

HAPPY HOUR DAILY FROM 3-7pm 14209 W. Newberry Road 352-363-6338 ACROSS FROM JON ESVI LLE PU BLIX Now open

3501 SW 2nd Avenue 352-505-3595 I N TH E CREEKSI DE MALL PLAZA

$

5.00 OFF

any purchase of $30 or more

MAY/JUNE 2018 TOWN MAGAZINE | 5 LIMIT ONE COUPON PER VISIT. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITHOUR OTHER OFFERS.

5

6

LAND-ONLY LOANS

6.19% APR

*

10-Year Term, 85% LTV Are you ready to take the first step toward your dream home? **

Membership is open to everyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or does business in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist or Levy County.

Proudly serving our members and our community since 1957

352-381-5200 www.SunStateFCU.org *ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE WITH APPROVED CREDIT. FLORIDA PROPERTIES ONLY. OFFER VALID ON NEW LAND LOANS ONLY. **MAXIMUM PURCHASE LTV (LOAN-TO-VALUE) LIMITED TO THE LESSER OF EITHER 85% APPRAISED VALUE OR PURCHASE PRICE.

6 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

MILLHOPP ER NOW OPEN

232

Millhopper Rd.

NW 39th Ave.

NW 43 St.

Location, Location, Location!

NW 53rd Ave. 441 222

121

75

Newberry Rd.

26

NW 8th Ave.

ga Tio

Three North Florida Regional ERs to choose from, each open 24/7

NFRMC.com MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 7

7

8

Paradise This is

Enjoying your pool?

Let Paradise Pools maintain your pool for just a little more than the cost of chemicals. Call today and ask about our ONE MONTH FREE service agreement.

WITH MENTION OF THIS AD

WEEKLY & BIWEEKLY POOL SERVICE AVAILABLE.

NEW CONSTRUCTION | REMODELING | REPAIR | MAINTENANCE Serving Gainesivlle & the surroudning areas 8 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

352-472-8484 License # CPC1456716 & CPC1457841

MEMBER OF

CONTENTS

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 8

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

| V O L . 1 6 | N O. 0 3

IN THIS ISSUE >> WE INVITE YOU TO DELVE INTO ALL THE COLORS OF THE RAINBOW. UNDERSTAND COLOR THEORY AND HOW CERTAIN HUES CAN IMPACT YOUR MOOD. ALSO, PEEK INTO THE WORLD OF COLORFUL ARTISTS — THESE LOCAL CREATORS ADD A SPLASH OF COLOR TO OUR VIBRANT TOWN. HERE’S TO HUE!

FEATURE STORIES 20

RAINBOW BRIGHT Check out some of the hair trends in our community that continue to make the cut.

24

COLOR YOUR TROUBLES AWAY Adult coloring has become a welcomed trend in the mental health community, learn how this healthy habit has been incorporated into local programs.

68

HOW GAUDY! The stunning creations of Antoni Gaudi, Spain’s most whimsical architect.

72

OUR TOWNIES Another installment of the recurring series of interviews with people who live in our town.

Everyone’s got a story to tell.

80

A PEACE OF HISTORY The psychedelic past of tie-dying around the world.

It’s totally tubular!

94

IN MISSING COLOR A look into the world of colorblindness from those who have experienced it first-hand.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 9

9

10

CONTENTS

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 8

28

62

COLORFUL ARTISTS Peek into the lives of artists in our community, from makeup to stained glass — all of these creators have a unique story to tell.

OUR COLORFUL TOWN A spotlight on some of the most colorful destinations in our community.

36 SUMMER VAYCAYS Dreaming of getting away? Check out these summer vacation destinations of 2018.

74 RECIPE WONDERS Cooking with Color! Adding fresh veggies from your local farmer’s market can brighten up a meal in no time.

Get this issue’s recipe stirring up in your kitchen today.

COLUMNS 40 NAKED SALSA

by Crystal Henry

60 FARM TALES

by Mother Hen

98 EMBRACING LIFE

by Donna Bonnell

128 FUREVER FRIENDS Spotlight on Rescue Animals

82 BED AND BREAKFAST This unique piece of Victorian splendor brings vivid color and history to the Gainesville area. The Sweetwater Branch Inn is truly one of a kind.

REVIEWS 78

READING CORNER

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

42 IF WALLS COULD TALK Take a look at how the graffiti wall of 34th Street has become integrated into the Gainesville community.

86

48

90

HISTORY OF RAINBOWS Where do rainbows come from?

Learn about the science and magic behind this unique phenomenon in nature.

J’ADORE DECÓR Get in-the-know with these 2018 decorating trends and techniques.

FEELING BLUE? Learn the red-hot truth about color and how it affects your mind and mood.

118 GATE CRASHING

by Brian “Krash” Kruger

INFORMATION 102 Taste of the Town 108 Community Calendar

120 52 A COLORFUL TRIBUTE Blake Harrison pays his respects to the life of Tom Petty through his art.

10 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

TASTE THE RAINBOW Looking to add some color to your palate this summer? Check out these colorful dishes served in our community.

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. © 2018 Tower Publications, Inc.

10 2 1

lymph n lymph nodes odes aand nd a ttumor umor rremoved emoved nights in nights in the the hospital hospital robotic-assisted ssurgery robotic-assisted urgery Another sseason Another eason o off sseeding eeding the the future. future.

We hope Jerri has many more seasons to bloom.

At the University of Florida Health Cancer Center, our comprehensive team of dedicated experts in clinical research, diagnosis, treatment and wholelife care are ready to celebrate milestones with you like we have with Jerri.

After a minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery to remove her lung cancer, Jerri can return to planting seeds for a healthier future. At the UF Health Cancer Center, you’re not just our patient, you’re our partner.

UFHealth.org/cancer

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 11

11

12

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 Steph Strickland, Savannah Austin, Kacey Finch, Cameron Cobb, Stephanie Richards, Jessica Schein, Peggy Macdonald, Hayli Zuccola, Monica Humphries, Gabrielle Calise, Coral Dixon, Kaitlin Applegate, Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Blake Harrison ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com Helen Mincey helen@towerpublications.com Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com INTERNS Steph Strickland, Savannah Austin, Kacey Finch, Jasmine Dahlby

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!

12 | OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

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

“I believe we can live as emotionally healthy people in a healthy society.”

DR. ADIL A. MOHAMMED, M.D. Medical Director | Board Certified Psychiatrist

HARMONY UNITED IS COMMITTED TO YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. EVALUATIONS, PSYCHOTHERAPY, DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF:

Depression • Anxiety Disorders Bipolar Disorder • Memory Problems Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD) ADHD • Substance Abuse Adjustment Disorder We conduct testing for Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Dementia and Traumatic Brain Injury

NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENTS

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY WE ACCEPT MOST FORMS OF INSURANCE

912 NW 57th Street, Suite B | Gainesville

352-431-3940 www.HarmonyUnitedHC.com LEESBURG | LADY LAKE | GAINESVILLE MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 13

13

14

EDITOR ’ S LET TER M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 8

The Hue in You

CED OFFEE PM PM

PM PM

EVE E VER RY YD DA AY Y!!

ALL SIZE ES S

As a child my favorite color was yellow. Pink wasn’t an option because my big sister informed me that it was already taken. My young mind wandered to other options that would suit me, and I settled on yellow because it was the same color as my hair. It’s interesting how different hues seem to define us – our tastes, our moods, and even our skin tones.

I’ve always been a big fan of mixing as many different colors as possible. In fact, as a kid I can vividly remember this one magical crayon that was made up of every color you can imagine. My siblings and I called it the “rainbow crayon.” As you can probably guess, it was always in demand. No two strokes were ever the same because the wax of the crayon was ever-changing. When the blues and reds happened to rub together, an enchanting purple became present. Purple was my second favorite color because every middle sister needs a backup in case her “first-second choice” becomes off limits. After crayons came the magic markers, and there was even a pack called Mr. Sketch that was scented like fruit. That was mind-blowing.

Now as an adult, my color preferences have varied just a tad. I suppose they’re more specific now, like my love for the color chartreuse. It’s still in the family of yellow, but with a tinge of lime green. Bold patterns like black & white stripes and polka dots are another favorite of mine. In fact, a couple years ago I insisted on a thick pinstripe accent wall in my home office, along with the rest of the walls painted a color called “That’s My Lime.” It might sound like a strange combination to some, but to me it just feels right.

In this issue we explore the wonderful world of color. As summer approaches, treat your palate to something fun and bright with a few local restaurants’ most colorful dishes.

Also, learn about some of the vibrant landmarks our town is known for — like the little red schoolhouse found in Newberry. Did you know that color can impact your mood? Picasso had a blue period, after all. Understand what certain colors mean and the emotions they can evoke within us.

Cooking with color? Let Recipe Wonders show you the way! By incorporating vibrant veggies found at your local farmer’s market, your next home-cooked meal could be oh so bright! Finally, peek into the lives of some of the most colorful artists in our town. Their imagination and dedication adds to the creativity of our beloved community.

This and so much more can be found within these pages — where we invite you to delve into all the colors of the rainbow...

May the hue be with you!

Gainesville 114 SW 34TH ST.

(352) 376-7020

Alachua 15634 NW HWY 441 (386)418-0838

www.m i a pa lat i n ca fe.c o m

14 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Ericka Winterrowd, Editor-In-Chief

Windows The Home Improvement Specialist Florida Home Owners Trust.

CRC050304

Energy Efficient Replacement Windows FINANCING AVAILABLE (W.A.C.)

BUY SIX WINDOWS, GET ONE FREE No other discounts apply. Must present coupon on initial presentation. Minimum installed purchase of 6 windows to qualify for free window promotion. Expires 6-30-18.

Easy terms & low monthly payments to fit your budget

352-433-0019 FairbanksConstruction.com| MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

15

15

16

Wood Buildings

LOOKING U P

Metal Buildings

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 8

Carports

needs! r u o y o t d e iz Custom

Fanfares & Fireworks Oooh Ahhh! Grab some lawn chairs, blankets and family & friends to celebrate America’s 242nd birthday with colorful fireworks and live music at the annual Fanfares and Fireworks event. This celebration is hosted by WUFT-TV and WUFT-FM. The free annual independence day event will take place at the University of Florida Bandshell at Flavet Field, 605 Woodlawn Drive, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 3.

Sponsored by the City of Gainesville, Florida Credit Union and Gainesville Regional Utilities, WUFT-TV and WUFT-FM have been hosting the family-friendly fireworks celebration since the 1990s, according to the Gainesville Sun. The event will be emceed by WUFT-FM Morning Edition host Glenn Richards, and participants can enjoy live music from reggae band The Duppies and rock ‘n’ roll group Hedges.

Gainesville Community Band, an 80-person concert band and Fanfares event regular, will be also be performing for an hour, according to the Gainesville Community Band website, ending with their national march, “Stars and Stripes Forever.” The song will continue as the soundtrack for the fireworks display, which will follow performances starting at approximately 9:40 p.m. The event usually attracts over 20,000 people each year, according to the Gainesville Community Band website.

Concessions will be available for purchase and LifeSouth Community Blood Center will be holding a blood drive during the event. For safety concerns, organizers are asking that participants do not bring dogs, sparklers or alcohol to the event. However, coolers are allowed, but may be searched by the University of Florida Police Department for prohibited items.

Stay in touch with the action by using the hashtag #fanfares18, and view photos of last year’s fireworks extravaganza at #fanfares17.

Happy Birthday, America!

24910 West Newberry Rd., Newberry, FL

Fanfares & Fireworks UNIVERISTY OF FLORIDA BANDSHELL AT FLAVET FIELD

Tuesday, July 3rd

352-472-7100

wuft.org

RedBarnHomeCenter.com 16 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Coming Fall 2018

WE’VE GOT BIG NEWS! Thanks to all our amazing patients, we’ve outgrown our current offices!

We’re building a state of the art facility with a free standing birth center.

Along with the new location, we’re also getting a new name, Comprehensive Women’s Health.

We’ll still have the same great doctors, midwives, and staff that you’ve come to know and love and we’ll have even more great services just for you at our new location at 724 N.W. 43rd Street.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 17

17

18

CONTRIBUTOR S

18 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 8

STEPH STRICKLAND is a first year journalism student within the UF Honors Program and she loves telling stories through writing, photography and digital media. Outside of her studies she enjoys mountain hiking, nature photography and spending quality time with friends and family. stephanieannestrickland@gmail.com

SAVANNAH AUSTIN is a journalism and art student at UF. She is a passionate advocate for the color mustard yellow and can be found making hand-lettered greeting cards, binge-watching Jane the Virgin or incessantly taking photos of friends and family. savannahkaustin@ufl.edu

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

JESSICA SCHEIN is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida and freelance writer.

Jessica likes to workout, read, play the piano, and spend time with her friends. jschein@ufl.edu

PEGGY MACDONALD is a native Gainesvillian and the executive director of the Matheson History Museum. She has taught history at Florida Polytechnic, Stetson and UF. She is also the author of Marjorie Harris Carr: Defender of Florida’s Environment. peggymacdemos@gmail.com

KACEY FINCH is a sophomore journalism major at the University of Florida. When she’s not writing, you can find her drinking Starbucks, binge-watching Netflix and trying to explore all the world has to offer. kaceyfinch@outlook.com

HAYLI ZUCCOLA is a New England native who enjoys listening to music and traveling. After graduating high school with her AA degree she got her Bachelor’s in Journalism from the University of Florida.

HayzDesigns@yahoo.com

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

CORAL DIXON is a graduate student in the Museum Studies program at the University of Florida, concentrating in Communications.

She is also the PR and Marketing Graduate Assistant for the UF College of the Arts. coraldixon@ufl.edu

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

Delivered in just 7 days !

FREE DELIVERY & SETUP • • • • • • • • • •

386-454-2728

Rent-To-Own (36/48 Month) No Credit Checks 8’ Wide No Downpayment 10’ Wide only $100 deposit 12’ Wide only $200 deposit 50 Year Warranty on siding 30 Year Warranty on roof 15-Year Smart Shed flooring Only 21 days on custom orders All pressure treated underneath

17410 NW US Hwy 441 High Springs, Florida

WE OFFER A FULL LINE OF VEHICLES AND TRAILERS! MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 19

19

20

STYLE TRENDS >> HAIR COLOR & HIGHLIGHTS

GOOD OMBRÉ

Vibrant Colors and Highlights Continue to Make the Cut in Hair Trends S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY S TE PH A NIE RICH A R DS

C

lothing styles may be one way to make a statement, but colorful locks in trendy colors are a “manestay” in expressing individuality and providing a new look any time of the year.

Salon services are a retail business of $63 billion dollars, and hair coloring continues to remain a “vital anchor at U.S. salons,” according to a 2017 Professional Salon Industry Haircare Study from Professional Consultants & Resources highlighted in Salon Today. Hair coloring services grew 2.6 percent last year, attributed to a combination of middle agers covering their gray and younger adults looking for trending colors in different techniques including highlights, babylights (natural, subtle highlights), balayage (dye painted on hair for gradual effect), and shadow roots (only roots colored).

20 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Pantone’s Color of the year is Ultra Violet, described by the company’s website as a “dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade” that “communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” It is no surprise that violets, plums and blackberry are popular favorites in hair color, according to “The Best Hair-Color Trends of 2018” in ALLURE. The article cites other favorites this year, including Caramel Ombré (where one color blends into another), Honey Rose and Hollywood Opal, described as a “pastel, opalescent color.”

Platinum, silver and gold rose are also trending, according to “Hair Color Trends 2018” in all hair, fashion and makeup. In addition, the article said warm, rich color tones in dark chocolate, chestnut and hazel brown are making appearances on the hair color scene.

Newberry resident Taylor Walker gets ready for a darker hair color with highlights.

Leyna Peters, Stylist/Owner of Mirror Mirror Salon Studio in Newberry, applies a dark auburn color to Walker’s hair.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 21

21

22

STYLE TRENDS >> HAIR COLOR & HIGHLIGHTS 22 |

As the onset of summer approaches, northern Floridians are looking for a change of color to give their short and long locks a fresh look. “Lots of clients are requesting highlights now to lighten the look of their hair color. We haven’t seen as many requests for natural color as much as highlights mixed with darker colors like chocolate.

Caramel and platinum highlights are also very popular,” said Leyna Peters, stylist/owner of Mirror Mirror Salon Studio in Newberry. “The combination gives hair a dimensional look.”

For 18-year-old Taylor Walker, darker hair with highlights recently gave her the change she was looking for. “I have darkened my hair before, but never tried a combination of dark color with highlights,” said the college student from Newberry, who is a client of Peters. “I thought I’d try a darker auburn color with highlights and love how it turned out.”

Multidimensional highlights with classic foiling or balayage techniques and vibrant hair colors are popular among clients of Crystal Castoral at All Creations Salon in High Springs.

“We definitely had a surge in middle age and active generation ladies getting purple color or peek-a-boo highlights of fantastic colors after a television commercial showed two ladies getting purple streaks before a high school reunion,” said Castoral, who has been a full cosmetologist at the salon for 12 years. “Some of the younger generation has gone a different direction with color by choosing to go gray intentionally. Others lean toward a pastel purple gray or shadow roots in smokey gray ombré.”

Peters said her clients also request vivid colors that make a statement. “Vivids in purple, reds and pinks are very popular colors. I’ve also done mermaid hair, such as purples and greens with blues mixed in. Earlier this year, I did rainbow hair on a male client,” said Peters, who has been a stylist for five years. “Bright colors are fun, but clients need to understand they are higher maintenance. To keep the color longer, I tell them to avoid washing their hair every day and use colder water; hot water will drag the color out quicker.”

Castoral also recommends using good quality salon products, such as a color extender shampoo and conditioner and thermal protection from heat, to keep colors from fading quickly. She said a lot of younger clientele want more vivid colors. “I personally get quite a few teens who love fantasy mermaid hair, which makes a transition through a multitude of rainbow colors or can be in a specific color family like blue roots, fading OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

to purple midshaft and ending with fuchsia tips,” she said.

Purple has been on the mind of 39-year old Liz Edinger for a while now. She recently decided to have Peters do a vibrant purple underlay on her hair. “I had done an espresso color on my hair, which is naturally a warm, medium brown, but wanted to try something vibrant. My daughter has had purple and pink highlights before, so I decided to give it a try,” said the Newberry resident. “This was my way of easing into more bold hair color and I love it.”

Castoral’s advice to anyone thinking about getting a new color is to avoid box color. “We can fix it, but it’s cheaper to do it right the first time [see a stylist]. Definitely don’t go with a jet black because it takes lots of work to get it out if you change

STYLE TRENDS >> HAIR COLOR & HIGHLIGHTS

“We definitely had a surge in middle age and active generation ladies getting purple color or peek a boo highlights of fantastic colors.”

your mind,” she said. “If you are afraid you won’t like it, get a temporary color before choosing a permanent one. If you are planning to go lighter, I suggest adding foils over time to slowly adjust if you are not sure. If you’re really ready to rock a new look, don’t hesitate to try something different… go bold.”

Finding a good stylist is key to the end result when it comes to hair color, Peters said. “My advice is to find a good stylist who will really listen to you about the look you want and tell you the truth. You also want someone who will take their time and not rush things as all hair doesn’t process the same way,” she said.

“The consultation is the most important part… finding out what a client wants to see when they look in the mirror. You can really change someone’s life by doing their hair.” s MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 23

23

24

CREATIVITY >> ADULT COLORING

COLOR YOUR TROUBLES AWAY

WHO SAYS YOU CAN’T STILL BE A KID SOMETIMES?

Adult Coloring STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY J ESSICA SCHEIN

Typically, coloring is thought of as a “kids-only” club.

But now adults have decided that coloring transcends age, with intricate coloring books to match.

Adult coloring books come in different themes, from Harry Potter to landscapes, there are choices for every interest. Putting a colored pencil to paper is not just for fun – it is also said to be beneficial for mental health.

According to an article from the Cleveland Clinic, coloring can help a person meditate, relax the brain and perform an activity that has no consequence of right or wrong. Local libraries recognized the importance of this right for adults to relax and created specific times for community members to meet and color together. The High Springs Branch and the Headquarters Branch of the Alachua County Library district hold weekly meetings for this activity.

24 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

The High Springs Branch offers a passive program for people to color together. Alicia Antone, the Branch Manager at the High Springs Branch Library, said the library sets up a coloring table where they place handouts for people to sit down, socialize and color together or to take one with them for later.

“I think the best thing about it is seeing the adults make friends with someone that they may have not made friends with before,” Antone said. “Seeing them taking on this whole movement of being mindful, just living in the moment, it really relaxes you, and actually it is quite therapeutic in the same way.”

The program, which started this January, is every Tuesday at 3 p.m. Antone said the library began offering adult coloring

We helped Abby take center stage. — Abby, age 7, Ocala

An early diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes hit a sharp chord with Abby and her family. Only 3 years old at the time, Abby dreamed of being a singer-songwriter and did not want her hopes to fall at. She relied on her UF Health pediatric endocrinologist and other expert caregivers to work in harmony. Together, they composed the perfect treatment medley to help her grow healthy and strong. Now she is upbeat about her future.

Visit UFHealth.org/peds to learn more.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 25

25

26

Now Ope in High S

n

prings!

“For many people, it is a sense of getting away from whatever might be stressing them out and having a time to just sit, reflect, make art and do something for themselves.”

Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Koi & Ponds • Reptiles Live and Frozen Rodents Small Animals Bird Supplies

(386) 454-PETS

7 3 8 7

18467 US HWY 441 High Springs 32643

because of a true interest expressed by library visitors.

“We do have a passive program with coloring for children, and we noticed that so many adults were kind of hovering over the table and actually getting involved with the coloring with their children, so I thought, let’s do something specifically for adults,” she said.

The library wants community members interested and engaged, believing that libraries are more than books. This program strives to help bring people together.

“For many people, it is a sense of getting away from whatever might be stressing them out and having a time to just sit, reflect, make art and do something for themselves,” Antone 26 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

said. “You are kind of feeling less unbalanced and bringing more balance to your life by just kind of sitting there and creating something.”

Overall, Antone said, it is meant to bring back the child in all of us. “I remember digressing as a child thinking about how fun it was just coloring on a sheet of paper and having a picture to show, being able to stay within the lines kind of comes back to you when you are doing the coloring sheets,” she said.

The Headquarters Branch of the Alachua County Library also offers a coloring program that is focused on bringing the entire family out to color. The weekly Coloring for Families program offers both kid-friendly and adultfriendly coloring options. s

O W V N E ED T E & R O A P N ER AT ED

NORTH FLORIDA FENCE & TREE SERVICE • • •

Tree Work Tree Trimming Storm Clean Up

• • •

Debris Removal • Fence Maintenance • Monthly Line Sprays •

Driveways Lawn Maintenance Land Clearing

WE’LL HANDLE ALL YOUR FENCING NEEDS CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE TODAY! 661-607-5571 www.NorthFloridaFenceLines.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 27

27

28

PROFILE >> COMMUNITY ARTISTS

VARIED PALETTE

Local Creators Who are Adding Brightness to the Community S T O R Y A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S AVA N N A H A U S T I N

C

olor can set apart a painting, photograph, stained glass piece or even a tattoo. It is a significant aspect of art, and our town is bursting with artists of all mediums who utilize and manipulate color to create masterpieces.

DIANA TONNESSEN Gainesville, Printmaker Favorite Color: Fire engine red Diana Tonnessen, 61, is an artist who never thought she would be one. In 2011, she hit a wall in her journalism career and met Leslie Peebles, a woman who was doing linoleum block printing.

Peebles taught her how to make the prints, and the minute Tonneseen learned how to cut, she couldn’t stop. Her first design was of the Florida Motel sign on U.S. Route 441. From there, she continued to print images of early- to mid- 20th Century American car culture in Florida.

“I discovered I had a good eye for composition and use of color and all these design principles,” she said.

28 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

“And that was so exciting for me too.”

Tonnessen spends nearly 20 hours carving and pressing the black and white prints and about five hours hand-painting each. Inspired by the many neon signs she grew up seeing on road trips and the amusement park she lived by, she uses vibrant, neon-colored acrylic wash paints.

The journalist and artist now sells her colorful linoleum block 2D and 3D prints at the Artisans’ Guild Gallery, 201 SE 2nd Place.

“I had no plans for this to become something more than a hobby,” Tonnessen said. “And when I saw the response of people to what I was doing, I thought, I’ll just make some more.”

PHOTO BY RAY CARSON

Ray Carson, 63, has been a commercial, editorial, portrait and fine art photographer for over 30 years.

As an avid history lover, he began to record history by photographing Civil War reenactments in black and white film and hand-coloring each photograph. His work in reenactments ended up comprising the content of his book, “The Civil War Soldier: A Photographic Journey.”

Hand-coloring photographs was a technique he learned about in college, inspired by 20th century postcards he used to collect that were colored by hand. The process involves applying and wiping away translucent oils onto photographic paper, then going in with pencil.

“In hand-coloring, what it does is it gives you the ability to combine art and photography,” Carson said. “You’re adding in color which also gives you the ability to add in any color you want.”

Carson now sells his photographs and hand-colored pictures through the Artisans’ Guild Gallery.

PHOTO BY RAY CARSON

RAY CARSON High Springs, Photographer Favorite Color: Blue

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 29

29

30

PROFILE >> COMMUNITY ARTISTS 30 |

BOB ROBINS Gainesville, Lighting Designer Favorite Lighting: Lavender, Amber, Pink

LINN CHECK–MATHIS Alachua, Stained Glass Artist Favorite Color: A blend of aqua, teal & turquoise

With over 33 years of experience, 56-year-old Bob Robins is the lighting designer and production manager at the Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd place.

To design the lighting for shows, he begins with production meetings, rehearsals and scripts. Then, he creates light plots, or schematic drawings, of where he wants each light placed and its characteristics.

Electricians hang the lights and Robins moves every light exactly where he wants it to shine, and then he gets to sit behind the lighting computer and “paint” with different textures and colors.

The colors he uses depend on the type of play and the mood of the show as well as the skin tones and costumes of the actors.

For ghostly scenes, such as those in “A Christmas Carol,” he tends to use green shades, while Godly, religious and life or death themes are represented through white.

“Half of it is so technical … but the other side is just painting … with light,” Robins said. “Sometimes we use big strokes, and sometimes we use little subtle brushes.”

Linn Check-Mathis had never had any artistic training when she learned to make stained glass in an art community in Michigan. She began to spend so much time in the shop that she eventually managed the store. Yet, when the 73-year-old moved to Florida, she couldn’t find a proper glass shop, so she started her own.

For 35 years she ran the North Florida Stained Glass studio and created panels for public places, residences and churches, including an 8-foot by 12-foot stained glass piece for The Family Church in Gainesville.

Glass and color are synonymous, Check-Mathis said. “In terms of colors I use, it depends on what my eye lands on.”

At 70, she retired and now creates stained glass pieces of jewelry to sell in Lanza Gallery.

“I realize when I die there’s going to be little pieces of me.

Whether it be a front door panel, a church window, a piece of jewelry,” Check-Mathis said. “It’s kind of nice that I made little dents in somebody’s life.”

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Keep your Mood Ring showing Dark Purple with a new home from Showcase Homes!

Now on Clearance... the "Country Ridge"

4 BED / 2 BATH 2,280 SQ. FT. Lot model only – available for immediate delivery!

P R I C E I N C LU D E S :

SET-UP, A/C & HEAT PUMP AND CODE STEPS

$134,900 was $145,900

CALL TOLL-FREE TODAY!

888-313-2899 VISIT US ONLINE ANYTIME! www.SHOWCASE LC.com MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 31

31

32

PROFILE >> COMMUNITY ARTISTS

TINA CORBETT High Springs, Painter Favorite Color: Garnett Born in Brooklyn, or as she calls it, “The best place in the world,” 59-year-old Tina Corbett started painting at age 12 in Miami where she grew up. She continued to paint all through school, but went to work for the U.S. Postal Service where she was the artist and illustrator for the post office. Eventually, she returned to painting when she moved to High Springs and opened Lanza Gallery and Art Supplies in 2015.

As a kid, Corbett used to attend art festivals and was always drawn to the tents with the brightest colors. That attraction to bold colors and the influence of Latin painters who use vibrant hues inspire the landscape paintings that she does now, including vivid illustrations of local springs.

“I’m traditionally a plein air painter,” Corbett said.“So when I paint outdoors, I do bump up the natural color of the landscape only because that’s my style.”

Corbett’s store, located at 23645 U.S. Highway 27 W., is supported by the Gainesville Fine Arts Association and offers high-quality supplies as well as work from herself and over 20 other nature-oriented local artists.

KARA WINSLOW Gainesville, Makeup Artist Favorite Color: Sequin by M.A.C. Ten years ago, Kara Winslow was cast as an actress in a film and jumped in to help out after the makeup artist left. A year later, she was called by a producer who told her MTV wanted to hire her as a head stylist for a project.

Jobs like that kept happening for the 36-year-old to the point where the city of Gainesville called to tell her she owed money for a business license.

“Sorry, I didn’t realize I had started a business,” Winslow said. Now, she has been a full-time makeup artist for six years, working with clients for special occasions or on-screen talent and performers.

“Color is actually really, really important. I have to look at a human’s face and clean the canvas,” she said.

“I have to go in and remove the color from a person’s face before I add the color.”

When Winslow gets to do a high fashion shoot or theatrical performances, that’s when she gets to truly play with color and materials like acrylic body paint.

“I pinch myself when I wake up because I have the most fun job on the planet,” Winslow said. “Every woman deserves to feel beautiful and if I can help her achieve that, that’s an amazing thing to do.”

32 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Do you need a storage unit in High Springs?

Whether you’re moving in, moving out or just need some extra room, we’re here to help you get the space you need.

Climate Controlled Units Available!

17774 US Hwy 441 High Springs

386-454-4137

1ST & MAIN HAIR STUDIO

PHOTOS COURTESY KARA WINSLOW

COLOR & HIGHLIGHTING • HAIRCUTS WAXING • PERMS • STRAIGHTENERS • STYLING

MEGAN 352.278.5844

KIM 386.965.9319

LAUREN 352.214.2883

PAIGE 352.284.4574

WHITNEY 352.538.9912

DANI 352.466.8068

MEGAN 352.317.0759

OPEN TUESDAY – SATURDAY 23673 W US HWY 27

•

HIGH SPRINGS MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 33

33

34

PROFILE >> COMMUNITY ARTISTS

MARC VENEZIANO Gainesville, Tattoo Artist Favorite Color: Graffiti neon green If a client comes into Addiction Tattoo, 12 NW 7th Terrace, wanting a colorful, comic-book style tattoo, Marc Veneziano is the man for the job.

“I enjoy everything color. Everything around me I try to make as colorful as possible.

I always think the brighter the colors, the more vibrant it will come out,” the tattoo artist of 12 years said.

Veneziano’s workspace is littered with multi-colored posters, superhero action figures and ink in just about any color a client could want. The decorations act as inspiration for the colors and figures he uses in drawing tattoos for clients.

“I think it makes it more enjoyable having a colorful work area,” he said. “It’s easier for me to show clients what the colors actually look like in contrast to each other.”

Whether it’s carved into linoleum blocks or an illustration inked onto an arm, these local artists help make the world a little bit brighter with each piece they create. s 34 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

KNOW THE FACTS:

2

UF Health stroke patients are cared for by a stroke neurologist within an average of two minutes after arrival to the E.R.

Catherine Flanigan Gainesville, Florida

Catherine had a stroke and was taken by ambulance to the UF Health Shands Comprehensive Stroke Center. There she received quick care that had her walking out of the hospital just a few days later with no evidence of her stroke. That’s problem-solving care that you find at a true comprehensive stroke center designated by The Joint Commission.

IN CASE OF STROKE, KNOW THE FACTS. CALL 911, AND ASK TO BE TAKEN TO UF HEALTH. Nationally certified by The Joint Commission, the American Stroke Association and the American Heart Association.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 35

35

36

TRAVEL >> SUMMER VACATIONS

ALL I EVER WANTED

Destination:

Vacation W R IT TE N BY K AC E Y F I NC H

With summer coming in hot, it’s time to start planning those much-needed getaways. Nancy Greenwell, a travel advisor for Continental Capers Travel in Gainesville, shares her ideas for all kinds of travelers and destinations.

36 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

TRYING TO FIND A FUN TIME WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK? HERE ARE THREE GREAT BUDGET-FRIENDLY IDEAS… 1. STAY IN STATE

2. GO ON A CRUISE

Living in Florida gives residents ample opportunity to travel to some of the most beautiful beaches without even leaving the state.

Florida is home to Clearwater Beach, named the best beach in the United States

by TripAdvisor. In fact, eight of TripAdvisor’s top 25 U.S. beaches of 2018 are located in the Sunshine State: Clearwater Beach, Siesta Beach, South Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach, St. Pete Beach, Hollywood Beach, Panama City Beach and Fort Myers Beach.

Florida even has a Club Med, an all-inclusive resort with tons of sports and activities, in South Florida. “That is good for families,” , Greenwell said. “We don’t Meds]] in have too manyy [Club [ the United States.”

“The cruise lines out of Florida all have pretty good deals, and they have promotions,” Greenwell said. Cruises closest to Gainesville depart from Port Canaveral; where vessels stop in the Bahamas, Caribbean, Key West and the cruise line’s private island; as well as Tampa, where stops are made in Cozumel and Grand Cayman. Florida resident discounts are also common among cruise lines, Greenwell said.

3. SKIP THE FLIGHTS AND DRIVE INSTEAD A lot of travelers like to visit nearby hotspots, so they don’t have to fly. St. Augustine, Charleston, Savannah and Key West are some popular destinations that aren’t too far to travel by car and offer rich history, quaint shops, beautiful beaches and delicious food.

St. Augustine, the oldest town in America, is home to the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress and a must-see for all history buffs, and Flagler College, the old Hotel de Ponce de León built by Henry Flagler in 1888. Ride a horse drawn carriage around town and hear about some of St. Augustine’s history; it’s totally worth it!

Go on a walking tour down the cobblestone streets of Charleston to the sight where the first shot of the Civil War was fired back in 1861, Fort Sumter National Monument.

Find time to snorkel the coral reefs, visit Ernest Hemingway’s home and take a picture at the Southernmost Point in Key West. States like Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia hold gorgeous sights and require less than a 10-hour drive from Gainesville to arrive. There’s plenty to do without the pain of getting on a plane.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 37

37

38

TRAVEL >> SUMMER VACATIONS

VACATIONS FOR THE ADVENTURE SEEKER If you’re looking for an active vacation, Greenwell recommends Backroads, a company that offers expertise in hiking and bicycle tours. Backroads takes travelers to destinations all over Europe, Canada, the United States, Latin America, Asia, Africa and even Antarctica.

“It’s not really budget friendly, but people who are really gung ho on this will save their money to do something like this because it’s really awesome,” she said.

POPULAR 2018 SUMMER DESTINATIONS This summer travel season, Greenwell has seen patterns of where people are gravitating towards. In the U.S., western treks appear to be popular this year.

“We see a lot of people that are going to the Grand Canyon,” she said. “Something they can do as a group or they can do their own thing.”

Traveling as a group makes trips cheaper, and travelers are all about saving a few bucks whenever they can.

Outside of the U.S., vacation seekers 38 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

crave European destinations.

“Right now, in our office, one of the most popular things is going over to Europe and doing your own thing,” Greenwell said. “We just plan where they want to go, hotels, tours and areas they want to go.”

Another hot spot this summer is the Greek Islands, where tourists can enjoy sandy beaches, history and culture. Who wouldn’t want to take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean and Ionian Seas?

TIP FOR YOUNGER TRAVELERS For wanderers aged 18 to 35, Greenwell suggests checking out Contiki, a travel company designated for young travelers.

They offer “300 trips spanning 6 continents,” according to their website.

“They’re going to do things with that age group in mind,” Greenwell said.

With all these new travel ideas, get out there and start planning the summer vacation of your dreams.

Let’s hear it for vaycays! s

PACKING LIST FOR A

CAMPING TRIP CLOTHES (locale dependent): Hat, waterproof jacket, socks, hiking boots, sunglasses, swimsuit, sandals with a good grip.

FOOD & DRINK: Camping stove, pots and pans, utensils, reusable water bottle, water filter, towel and soap, cutting board, foods (pre-packed snacks and pre-planned meals).

PERSONAL ITEMS: Toilet paper, sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, hand sanitizer, first aid kit, toiletry kit, medicine.

CAMP NECESSITIES: Tent, mallet, tarp, sleeping bags and sleeping pads, travel pillows, pocket knife.

NAVIGATION TOOLS: Compass, GPS, map, pen/pencil, paper, radios, flashlight.

OTHERS: Camera, board games, cards, fishing gear, bikes, s’mores!

SOURCE: EAGLECREEK.COM

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 39

39

40

COLUMN

CRYSTAL HENRY’S

Naked Salsa COMPLEMENTARY COLORS

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

I WASN’T EVER THE LITTLE GIRL WHO DREAMED OF GETTING MARRIED, AND PINTEREST ENVY WASN’T EVEN A THING IN MY EARLY 20S.

Y

es I was happily single and sailing through college when I met a boy who would dash my single-until-35 plans to bits. Although I was super set on flying solo to New York to be an amazing magazine writer, I was sufficiently side tracked when I met this witty, ambitious blonde-haired boy in an Irish Pub. Just nine months after we met, and three months after our official first date he popped the question.

Well technically he didn’t pop any questions, but rather initiated several thoughtful discussions with me about possibly starting a life together.

We still joke that I never actually got a wedding proposal, but the bra burning feminist side of me actually respects the fact that he didn’t ask anyone for my hand in marriage except for me.

We’d initially planned our wedding for the following Christmas. Then we figured it was a little selfish to bogart everyone’s holiday, so we settled on a summer wedding just three months away.

If you’ve ever seen a frantic Bridezilla raging because no one has the exact robin’s egg blue fondant she wants — that wasn’t me. I wasn’t really hung up on details, and we opted for a simple outdoor wedding in my cousin’s backyard. They had a donkey named Baby, which I thought was cool. But other than Baby’s heehaw, details weren’t really my thing.

I knew I wanted a string quartet (hired from my old high

school orchestra). But I didn’t know what songs they should play. I literally Googled “wedding songs” and chose the top 4 that popped up. The only original piece I chose was the most basic of jams, Pachelbel’s Canon. My 8th grade English teacher used to play it in class, and he was one of the teachers who inspired me to go into writing. He could also whistle and hum at the same time, but I wasn’t sure how to work that into the ceremony.

Then my mother asked me what my wedding colors would be. I assumed white was a given, but I really didn’t know about the rest.

I don’t really have a favorite color, and to be honest I always found that question strange. My favorite color of clothing is probably black. My favorite color drink is margarita green. And my favorite color food is anything fried brown. I need more context when choosing a favorite color.

I tapped into my future husband, and he said his favorite was probably yellow. No reason. I assume because he loves cheese. I had to pick a second color because... tradition? So I consulted the color wheel, and chose purple. Purple is directly opposite of yellow on the wheel, and therefore the two colors are considered complementary. As a writer I love hidden meanings, and my future husband and I were polar opposites that beautifully complemented each other.

So it was perfect.

Against a beautiful West Texas sunset, I walked down the aisle of purple and yellow daisies toward my altered plans.

Three and a half years later, I completed my undergrad in journalism and Hubs was wrapping up his Ph.D. in engineering.

And with the promise of a steady salary for both of us in sight,

Two and a half years later we had our second child.

Again my strong instinct that it was a boy turned out to be wrong, and we were blessed with another beautiful baby girl. She was completely perfect, and we both knew our family was complete. So we ended our rainbow baby tribe with Violet.

40 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

we decided to start a family.

I was thrilled when I found out we were expecting, then I was devastated when we lost the pregnancy. It was the first major tragedy my husband and I would face together.

Six months later, on the day of my grandmother’s funeral, I found out I was pregnant again. I had an intense feeling that the baby was a boy, and I was excited to meet my son whom I’d already named Asher. When my daughter was born I was totally shocked, and I really wasn’t sure what to call her.

Hubs suggested Sonoma so that we could call her Sonny. Rather than naming our daughter after a truck or a fancy chafing dish, I suggested Sunny, since she was our rainbow baby. Rainbow babies are the children we get to hold after the storm of a miscarriage. And you can’t have a rainbow after a storm without the Sun. So Sunny it was.

Two and a half years later we had our second child. Again my strong instinct that it was a boy turned out to be wrong, and we were blessed with another beautiful baby girl. She was completely perfect, and we both knew our family was complete. So we ended our rainbow baby tribe with Violet.

I never did go to New York. My life took a completely different path to an even better destination. I was married before 35, but I do write for some incredible magazines. Those two little girls have been my greatest inspiration, and writing about Sunny and Violet has led to some of my greatest professional successes.

A few years ago we adopted a fluffly little white dog who my oldest daughter named Daisy. One day as I was sitting between Sunny and Violet, with Daisy perched at my feet, I reached for my wedding album to show the girls some pictures of their mom in her glory days.

As I thumbed through the album, Violet piped up, “Mom look! It’s us!”

I thought maybe she was talking about her cousins who were about their age when I got married. But when I looked I realized she was talking about the flowers I held in my bouquet. It was those beautiful purple and yellow daisies that I carried down the aisle, as my life took the best unexpected turn it could take. s

Fresh, custom flowers for all occasions Beautiful arrangements at affordable prices!

, DAY ER’S E! H T • MO MOR ONS ANCE & I T P E A, ROM REC CHU GS • PROM • , ALA N Y I R R D • WBE LISTON WED HDAYS E, NE IL VILL SON, W S E BIRT IN A ON IN G NGS, BR BLE I A R L P I AVA HIGH S

Annie’s Sweet Blossoms

352-222-7576

anniessweetblossoms@gmail.com

KNOW WHAT’S BELOW.

IT’S SPRING TIME! Get your chimney & dryer vent clean A CLOGGED DRYER LINT DUCT CAN RESULT IN:

• Damp Clothes • Long Dry Times • Dryer Damage • Fire and more!

Call 811 before you dig to have underground utility lines located on your property.

KEEP YOUR DRYER SAFE & EFFICIENT! SUPEr SWEEP says “Be Fire Safe!”

AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Chimney Sweeps of America LLC 42 YEARS LIC# 0488

IN BUSINESS! LICENSED & INSURED

352-378-7020 OR 386-462-7050

$

5 OFF MAY/JUNE 2018

ANY SERVICE CALL!

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 41

41

42

eeffiti TThha Groff o tthh .

T S .

T S

34

TO ND PHO S TORY A

42 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

ICA

BY MON GR APHY

HUMPHR

IES

There’s an estimated 250 layers of paint coated on the wall.

WATCHING PAINT DRY

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY TRADITION >> 34TH STREET WALL GRAFFITI

C

olorful graffiti isn’t often celebrated in communities. But in Gainesville the 34th Street Wall is a tradition that has existed for decades.

Layers of paint cover old happy birthday messages, announcements for student organization meetings, advertisements for community events, proposals and rest in peace messages. Bold blues, shiny metallic colors, sunny yellows, bright whites and purple pastels stretch across the 34th Street Wall.

It’s a wall that’s recognized across Gainesville. It is considered a University of Florida tradition, a cultural landmark and one of the many things that add to Gainesville’s creative community.

It’s a 1,120-foot wall of graffiti. The wall was built by the Florida Department of Transportation in 1979 when 34th Street widened from two to four lanes. It was also built to help to preserve The Mark Bostick Golf Course, which is directly behind the wall.

The wall has an estimated 250 layers of paint. People come with paintbrushes, spray paint cans, rolling brushes and even markers to leave their mark on the wall.

It serves as a community bulletin board. When the Gators win a big game or there’s a march at Bo Diddley Plaza, there’s a colorful message celebrating and motivating people to join.

When a community member dies, there’s a somber rest in peace message.

When an artist finds old paint or has a creative itch, you’ll see art in all forms sprawled across the wall.

And although it’s not technically legal to paint on the wall, the Gainesville Police Department and Alachua County Sheriff’s Office haven’t enforced the rule in years.

Emily Pendas, a University of Florida student, has painted the wall four times.

She’s the vice president of membership for She’s the First at the University of Florida. She’s the First is a nonprofit organization that sponsors girls in developing countries.

One of the main ways the organization gains support is through fundraisers. This year the organization raised money through a kickball tournament.

Pendas said one of the easiest ways to promote an event is by painting the 34th Street Wall.

“It’s a great way to promote an event,” she said. “It’s become one of our biggest traditions.”

The club gathered bright yellow and purple paint and found a part of the wall that looked a little older.

Pendas said she wanted to make sure that she wasn’t painting over anyone else’s events, promotions or any new artwork.

They found a spot, and two hours later, the advertisement was completed.

| 43

43

44

COMMUNITY TRADITION >> 34TH STREET WALL GRAFFITI

Cars cons Car Ca co onnstantly ons taa tly tan tlly zip zip past zi s th thee mura mura urals. lss. ls.

Wit Wi W iitth eeach achh da ac ach dayy,, ffre reesh eshh pai p nt cov pa ovvers err p paarts off th thhe wa the wall alll — w whic hich haass bee hic beeenn refe refe efferre rrrred to ass a comm comm om mm m muni un tyy bul uni un buu let eettin in boa board, oard rd, d w d, whhere erre annyyo any one ne ca can post po osst me ost m ssages ssa sag gee . ges

The permanent memorial (above) recognizes the victims from the Danny Rolling murders.

The wall is constantly filled with birthday wishes, prayer requests and an occasional marriage proposal.

Painting the 34th Street Wall is in the University of Florida’s “F Book,” which is a book filled with traditions for students to complete throughout college.

“It was easy, it was free,” she said. “And it was fun.”

Pendas lives near the wall. She said she drives by it every day.

“It’s so fun that it’s constantly changing,” she said.

One day she’ll notice a new ad for a campus event, the next day it might be some cool lettering or a character from a show.

“It’s a Gainesville tradition,” she said. “It’s something every student or Gainesville resident should do at least once.”

And although the constant change was exciting, the community wondered if there was any way to document the art.

So the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries created an online photo album to remember and record the past messages. The online portfolio can be found at ufdc.ufl.edu/wall/.

The album, called Messages on the Wall, is like a diary. It records the history of the 34th Street Wall.

“It shows the change over the time, of the different 44 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

things that were important at the time,” the Director of Digital Support Service Chelsea Dinsmore said in an interview with WGFL. The first picture in the archive dates back to 1988.

It reads, “Gator D.M.D’s At Last!” which celebrates graduating dental school students.

Honoring Others A bright red heat and white lettering is contrasted against a black background. It’s the only part of the wall that remains the same. Five names are listed: Sonja Larson, Christina Powell, Christa Hoyt, Manuel Taboada and Tracy Paules.

The names are the victims from the Danny Rolling murders in 1990.

A red border frames the permanent tribute in honor of these victims.

And although the wall is known for its constant change, it’s the only panel that remains consistent.

Each time it gets painted over, the next morning

ENJOY YOUR FAVORITE FOODS AGAIN!

, YOU CAN TASTE AND ENJOY THE FOODS YOU LOVE WITHOUT HESITATION. You can bite naturally and eat virtually anything you want. Unlike removable dentures that can feel uncomfortable and limit the taste of food, dental implants let you experience eating comfortably again.

Gary I. Altschuler, DMD BOARD CERTIFIED PERIODONTIST

CALL TODAY FOR A CONSULTATION. 352-371-4141 altschulercenter.com 2251 NW 41st St, Suite F Gainesville, FL 32606 MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 45

45

46

“It’s a wall filled with stories.

Perfect for our creative city.”

it’s fixed. Sadie Darnell, a previous public information officer for the Gainesville Police Department and now Alachua County Sheriff, used to be in charge of touchups on the wall. Now members from the Interfraternity Council fix the wall.

Adam Bryn Tritt and Paul Chase were the original painters of the mural in 1990.

They drove a Honda scooter to Walmart where they bought leftover paint for $11.25.

“At the time, we didn’t have money for food,” Tritt said. “But that’s all the wall cost.”

Tritt originally decided to paint the wall to help keep the city clean.

There were memorials sprinkled throughout the city. He wanted one place for all the candles, stuffed animals, flowers and photographs, he said.

But he never thought it’d last this long.

“It’s utterly crazy,” he said. “I thought

POOL CONSTRUCTION • RE-SURFACE • DESIGN • MAINTENANCE

A beautiful tropical oasis…

LIC.# CPC1457976

352-494-5986 www.H2OasisPool.com 46 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

COMMUNITY TRADITION >> 34TH STREET WALL GRAFFITI

maybe five, six days.”

But 28 years later, it’s still there. On the 10-year anniversary, Tritt went and repainted the wall with Darnell and some of the victim’s family members. On the 20-year anniversary, a plaque was placed below the mural, which read “In Memory Of,” and the five names of the victims.

“It became the one place for everyone to focus grief,” he said.

But decades later a new mural has found a home next to Tritt’s. One commemorating Tom Petty.

“Love you always, Gainesville No. 1 Son, Thanks, Tommy”

is transcribed across the wall in letters, and a guitar pierces through a heart, which represents the Heartbreakers symbol.

The mural has been defaced a few times but each time is retouched.

As the city debates how to honor Petty, the community wonders if this mural will become permanent. But for the rest of the wall, it’s in constant change. Each day new people, new colors and new ideas visit the “community canvas” of 34th Street.

“It’s a wall filled with stories,” Pendas said. “Perfect for our creative city.” s

DECKING • LANDSCAPING • ENERGY EFFICIENT SYSTEMS • REPAIRS

…in your own back yard!

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!

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 47

47

48

LIGHT SCIENCE >> REFRACTION AND RAINBOWS

ALL THE COLORS

THE SCIENCE BEHIND RAINBOWS

Roy G. Biv W R I T T E N B Y S AVA N N A H A U S T I N

As children, rainbows were a thing of legend with a pot of gold at the end, or a Biblical symbol of a promise from God. The seven-colored arch can conjure images of a gingham-frocked Dorothy wistfully singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” or maybe even the awestruck voice of an emotional man repeating “double rainbow” from the popular Youtube video in 2010.

However, rainbows, although seemingly mysterious and magical, can be explained by the interaction between light, water droplets and the number 42.

According to National Geographic, the classic rainbow we see in the sky occurs when white light from the sun hits water 48 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

droplets in the air at an angle of 42 degrees and is refracted, or bent. The light bends because it encounters a new medium, traveling from air to water, and is then reflected by the back of the droplet.

Then the light is refracted again, but because different wavelengths of light bend at different angles, Isaac Newton discovered that white light separates, producing the colors red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet (or “Roy G. Biv” for short).

The color red has the longest wavelength at 650 billionths of a meter, or a nanometer, and violet has the shortest at 400 nanometers, according to National Geographic. Typical Rainbows have red outside edges and violet inside the arch.

The seven colors fall into the category of visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum, which outlines seven types of radiation, or energy emitted, according to NASA. Visible light is the only type of radiation that can be seen with the naked eye, whereas others like radio waves and microwaves cannot

DON’T GET SHOCKED. LEAVE IT

TO THE PROS IItt may look ke easy, a but why take

R U O H 24E R G E N CY EM

SERV

ICE

tthe he cha ance? L chance?

Let the experts at Archer E Electric Company h elp y o with any home help you impro improvement project.

It will cost less than you think and we will guarantee it to be done right!

NO JOB IS TOO SMALL Install Fans • Replace Lighting Fixtures Network or Telephone Wiring • Dimmers External Lighting • Motion Detection Floods Light Switches • Complete Home Wiring • More!

Mention this ad for a d discount on any service

10% OFF ARCHER

ELECTRIC SERVICE E

352.371.2580 ArcherElectricService.com MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 49

49

50

Douglas Adel, DDS

Is Snoring a Problem?

Are You Tired of Being Tired?

Call today for your free oral sleep appliance consultation with Dr. Adel regarding snoring or sleep apnea.

Celebrating 29 years of beautiful smiles!

Serving Alachua and surrounding communities since 1990!

Cosmetic, Family and Reconstructive Dentistry

be seen but are a part of our daily life.

Rainbows often occur after rainfall, in fog or around a waterfall or from sea spray.

The colorful phenomenon can vary in size depending on how much the light bends, or its refractive index.

Every so often a faint, second arch will appear, creating a double rainbow. The secondary band is formed due to light reflected twice inside droplets. This process can continue with even more reflections of light, with the number of reflections equal to its order.

Double rainbows are second-order, and

third-order and fourth-order rainbows are even possible but difficult to see. Scientists have even found evidence of a 200th-order rainbow in a lab in 1998 using a laser beam, according to the New World Encyclopedia.

Regardless of the amount of reflections, rainbows have been the curiosity of humans for centuries and the odds are likely that the next time it rains, light and water will do their thing and create colorful arches. It’s also likely that people will do their thing and Instagram, tweet or just stand in awe of it. It is, after all, quite a sight to behold. s

SPECIALIZING IN:

Porcelain Laminates, Veneers & Onlays Implant Placement & Restorations Digital Impression Scanning 3D Cat-Scan Imaging Digital X-Rays • TMJ Therapy Smile Makeovers Crowns • Bridges Metal-Free Fillings Laser Dentistry Snoring/Sleep Appliances

Rainbow Facts Rainbows are actually full circles. According to National Geographic, sometimes viewers from airplanes can see circular rainbows.

Rainbows are believed to exist on one of Saturn’s moons, Titan, because it has humid clouds and a moist surface.

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED WE FILE FOR YOU

No two people see the same rainbow — the colorful arches aren’t in a fixed spot in the sky, and everyone sees them at their own horizon.

386-462-4635 www.DRDOUGLASADEL.com 14211 NW 150th Ave • Alachua Located across the street from City Hall and the Police station

50 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Member SIPC

Compare Our CD Rates Bank-issued, FDIC-insured

2-year 1-year 6-month

2.35 % APY* Minimum deposit 1.85 % APY* Minimum deposit 1.65 % APY* Minimum deposit

$1000

$1000

$1000

* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective 07/21/2017. CDs offered by Edward Jones are bank-issued and FDIC-insured up to $250,000 (principal and interest accrued but not yet paid) per depositor, per insured depository institution, for each account ownership category.

Please visit www.fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability and price change. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early withdrawal may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all commissions. CDs require the distribution of interest and do not allow interest to compound.

CDs offered through Edward Jones are issued by banks and thrifts nationwide. All CDs sold by Edward Jones are registered with the Depository Trust Corp. (DTC).

Cathy Aull

Lance Drawdy

Luke Avizinis

Financial Advisor 105 SW 104th Ct. Suite 5 Jonesville, FL 32669 352-333-3032

Financial Advisor 18928 NW US HWY 441 High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-2741

Financial Advisor 2114 NW 40th Ter, Suite C-1 Gainesville, FL 32605 352-377-5092

Edward R. Potts

Reagan K Potts

Sally Lawrence

Financial Advisor 14423 US Hwy. 441, Suite 9 Alachua, Florida 32615 386-462-0417

Financial Advisor 5109h NW 39th Ave Gainesville, FL 32606 352-375-2323

Financial Advisor 105 SW 140th Ct, Suite 5 Jonesville, FL 32669 352-333-3032

Kent Walker

Kelly Barber

Bill Bush

Financial Advisor 2114 NW 40th Ter., Suite C-1 Gainesville, FL 32605 352-377-5092

Financial Advisor 23669 W Hwy. 27 High Springs, Florida 32643 386-454-3336

Financial Advisor 5109-H NW 39th Ave Gainesville, FL 32606 352-375-2323

Sheila K Smith

Shannon Scott

Financial Advisor 25349 W Newberry Rd Newberry, FL 32669 352-472-2776

Financial Advisor 23669 W US Hwy 27 High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-3336

To find an Edward Jones office near you, call 1-800-ED JONES.

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 51

51

52

PUBLIC ART >> TOM PETTY MURAL

AND THE WORLD GOT STILL

A Tribute to Tommy Mural Artist Blake Harrison Pays Respects to Tom Petty S TORY BY PEGGY M AC DON A LD P H OTO G R A P H Y C O U R T E S Y O F B L A K E H A R R I S O N

P

rehistoric mural artists painted hunting scenes, fertility symbols and religious motifs on cave walls and Paleolithic rocks.

Murals continue to resonate with 21st-century humans, although the canvases have changed. Some of the most cherished murals in Gainesville have been painted not inside dark caves, but near high-traffic roads where thousands of people pass by the artwork while going about their daily routines.

From the past to the present day, murals have represented a need not only to exist within our environments, but to impose ourselves indelibly into them, Lilly Katherine Lane wrote in her 2005 Florida State University doctoral dissertation, “A Critical Analysis of the 34th Street Wall, Gainesville,

52 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Florida.” Lane’s thesis analyzed the shifting murals on the 34th St. Wall over a 26-month period and their importance to the community.

“The wall serves as a community mirror through which each person sees a particular reality,” Lane argued.

One of the most enduring roles the 34th St. Wall has played is to provide a space for artists and lay people to erect public memorials. When news of Tom Petty’s death on Oct. 2, 2017 hit Gainesville, a mural soon appeared next to the memorial honoring the five victims of the 1990 student murders.

“Love You Always, Gainesville No. 1 Son, Tom Petty, Thanks Tommy,” the mural read. A giant red heart pierced by a guitar-shaped arrow was painted in the center. The mural remained relatively untouched for three months before it was defaced.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ANITA SPRING

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 53

53

54

PUBLIC ART >> TOM PETTY MURAL

Blake Harrison painted the Tom Petty mural in stages. At bottom left, the blank wall is shown before Harrison started work on the mural.

That’s when local artist and Tom Petty fan Blake Harrison stepped into action to restore the mural. Although Harrison did not paint the mural, he has become its de facto caretaker. At the same time, Harrison quietly started work on his own mural across town.

Soon after Petty’s death, it became clear to

combines two Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers album covers.

“I look at it as bookends to his career,” Harrison said in a Feb. 9 interview. “The cover of ‘Damn the Torpedoes’ is garish, but I liked that it showed Tommy in his younger years.”

Harrison surrounded Petty’s image from the

“I look at it as bookends to his career. The cover of ‘Damn the Torpedoes’ is garish, but I liked that it showed Tommy in his younger years.”

Harrison that the lead singer of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers would become the subject of his next painting. Harrison chose a unique canvas for his tribute to Tom Petty: a wall on the side of Import Sales & Service at the intersection of South Main St. and Southeast 16th Ave. The mural 54 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

1979 album “Damn the Torpedoes” with a nod to Jan Matulka’s “Autumn Landscape” (1921), the painting featured on the cover of the 1991 album “Into the Great Wide Open,” to the delight of hardcore Petty fans who can spot the contrast.

“I used that album to give it more flourish than

Windows and doors designed to make the

everyday extraordinary.

We carry all types of windows, exterior doors, interior doors, interior moldings, door hardware, exterior trim, and shutters.

As an authorized manufacturer’s dealer for the top brands in the industry, you can feel confident in our products and service.

C A L L O R V I S I T O U R S H O W R O O M T O D AY Licensed & Insured LIC# SCC131151265

www.WhitfieldWindowAndDoor.com

17833 NW 244th Street, High Springs, FL • 386-454-0295 LOCATED IN THE HIGH SPRINGS INDUSTRIAL PARK OFF OF POE SPRINGS RD. (COUNTY RD. 340) MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 55

55

56

PUBLIC ART >> TOM PETTY MURAL

The mural takes shape. Harrison often wears a top hat while he paints, as a nod toward Tom Petty. He titled the mural, “...and the world got still.”

56 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

a plain color,” Harrison said. “It was the perfect background because it was a painting.”

“Damn the Torpedoes” was Harrison’s favorite album when he worked as a deejay at a gentleman’s club after high school. “Why they call it a gentleman’s club is beyond me—it’ a misnomer,” he said. “I never met a gentleman there.”

After brief stints as a Chippendales waiter, drummer and roadie—and a short stay at The Farm, a hippie commune in rural Tennessee— Harrison shifted his professional focus to painting. A New Orleans native, Harrison moved to Gainesville in the early ‘80s and completed the graphic design program at Santa Fe College.

He later completed a Master of Fine Arts at the University of Florida with a concentration in studio painting.

Harrison taught art for several years as an adjunct professor at Santa Fe College. His students’ murals can still be seen on campus breezeways. Harrison moonlights as a tree surgeon to supplement his art career. “My joke is I used to

get in trouble for climbing trees as a kid and now I get paid for it,” Harrison mused. “I just turned 55 and I’m still climbing trees.”

In the 1990s, Harrison cut his chops in live painting at the Alachua Music Harvest, where he painted George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic. He also painted the entire length of a fence at the fairgrounds during the festival while an audience of punks, hippies and college students watched.

“Size does matter in art,” Harrison said.

“People get to be involved when you paint it live.

You have to swallow your ego to paint live. That’s really a vulnerable time for artists.”

Harrison later partnered with his mentor, artist Ed Rowe, in painting the former Timucuan mural on Southwest 13th St. Harrison also painted murals at local businesses and private residences.

One of his recently commissioned works is a section of the 352 Walls mural on the Make.Work building at 722 South Main St., the site of the former Discount Hi-Fi. You can view more of

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Leaders in Garage Door Installation & Service ASK YOUR OVERHEAD DOOR RED RIBBON DISTRIBUTOR TODAY TO LEARN MORE. *Ranked #2 in upscale remodeling projects for cost recovered at resale. Based on National Association of Realtors members included in 2011-12 Cost vs. Value study rather than actual sales data.

Overhead Door Company of Gainesville

352-468-2733 Whether you need an attractive, insulated door for your home or a specialty automatic door for your business, we can meet your requirement.

www.overheaddoorgnv.com Overhead Door Company of Ocala 352-622-5737 www.overheaddoorocala.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 57

57

58

PUBLIC ART >> TOM PETTY MURAL

Harrison’s work at facebook.com/blakestudio and artwanted.com/blake.

While working on the Tom Petty mural, Harrison engaged passers-by and viewers on social media as the piece unfolded. “I wanted to paint it in a progression, so people can see the process,” he explained. “I started out just painting simple squares for my grid. And I realized there are all these blocks.”

“I wanted to paint it in a progression, so people can see the process.”

George Moody Sr. at Import Sales & Service generously provided Harrison with a large concrete block wall to use as a canvas and gave him full creative control over the mural project. Harrison started by painting the squares of the grid that he thought were least likely to reveal that the subject of the mural was Tom Petty.

“People were pulled in,” Harrison reflected. “One person asked, ‘Is that an elephant?’ Someone asked if it was an exploding Rubik’s cube. I played along with them, and it just came into being.”

Harrison titled the Tom Petty mural “...and the world got still.” It is causing heads to turn on South Main St. and on social media, where tens of thousands of people viewed the nearly-finished mural on the Matheson History Museum Facebook page in early February. Based upon Facebook comments from Petty fans in Gainesville and around the world, Harrison’s artistic tribute to Gainesville’s hometown boy will continue to be well-loved through the years. s

58 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Harrison’s other work includes the former Timucuan mural on Southwest 13th St., painted with his mentor, Ed Rowe; and murals in private residences and offices.

The bottom mural was painted by Harrison’s art students on a Santa Fe College breezeway.

Home is where precious memories come to life.

Trust yours to the mortgage experts at Capital City Bank.

Before camp outs were staged and buried treasure was discovered, there was a mortgage. At Capital City Bank, we understand your mortgage is about more than a house. That’s why you can rely on us to be there to guide you every step of the way. Because helping make your dreams reality….Those are the memories we cherish.

We have a loan program right for you: • Conventional/FHA/VA* • Adjustable & Fixed Rate

• Construction/Perm Financing • And more...

Learn more at www.ccbg.com/mortgage All products are subject to credit and property approval. Program terms and conditions subject to change without notice. Not all products are available in all markets or for all amounts.

Other restrictions and limitations may apply. *Loans are not made or originated by the FHA, VA, HUD or any other governmental entity.

“Being your child’s doctor is an honor, and I look forward to serving my Alliance Pediatrics, P.A. patients and community.”

Dr. Stephanie Kirkconnell CALL TO REGISTER TODAY Proud to accept UF Gator Care, Florida Blue & most major insurances.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIIENTS

4627 NW 53rd Avenue • Gainesville, FL 32653 Located behind the Hunters Crossing Shopping Center

352-335-8888 phone 352-335-9427 fax Visit us online:

www.MyAlliancePediatrics.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 59

59

60

COLUMN

FARM TALES

From Mother Hen COLORING OUTSIDE THE LINES

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 have always loved artistic things. My mother recognized this and kept scraps of the drawings I made as a small child in photo albums. One I remember in particular was an elephant, drawn freehand when I was around four—and I have to admit it was pretty good. I guess I must be “right-brained” because anything to do with the arts was easy for me.

As I grew, I took pride in my artistic ability. Even before starting first grade I was drawing on paper scraps constantly. I revered my coloring book as my “portfolios” (even though at the time I didn’t know what that word meant). But I kept the completed coloring books with my storybooks and would look back at them from time to time. Just as every artist treasures his creations, that’s how I felt about my coloring books. Each page was completed with careful detail to color choice and all the colors were kept within the lines.

Add to my artistic talent the fact that I was also born with a desire to follow rules, strive for excellence and keep my things in pristine condition.

There was a television show back then called “Ding Dong School” and on it Miss Frances would instill in us children good manners such as sharing with one another. I watched Miss Frances every day, and like I said before, I had an innate desire to follow rules. Miss Frances said to “share” – so I shared. Sometimes a visiting child would come with a friend of my mother’s, and even though it hurt to see them scribble on my coloring book pages, I allowed it. It was “sharing” after all.

One day my mother and I were having some quality time together. We picked out two pages side by side in my coloring book, and we colored. To this day, I can recall that she was coloring a simple coloring book drawing of a chicken. I 60 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

forget what my page was, but I was going about it with the same determination to stay inside the lines as always. To me, that perfection was beauty. As I glanced over at my mother’s page I saw to my dismay that she was coloring outside the lines!

But then, on closer examination I saw what she was doing. She was creating individual feathers, and shading them with colors more true to nature than the simple coloring book sketch would allow.

My mind expanded at that moment to see what true art, and true beauty, is. Staying within the lines has its purpose, but something beautiful happens when you let your mind’s eye expand to see not only what is there—but what could be there.

When I started school, my favorite class was the Friday afternoon art class. After struggling all week with math and science, I felt it was my reward for working hard on those subjects. Occasionally when the class was unruly, the teacher would withhold art class that week as punishment. Those weeks were the worst!

But usually we were allowed to make an art project each week, and I was so happy when I could bring the completed project home. My favorites were the holiday decorations we made and brought home the last day of school before winter or spring break.

With all these art projects, I remembered my mother’s valuable lesson to “color outside the lines” and let my individuality show. My reputation for art and my creativity won me some accolades amongst my classmates, and even a few blue ribbons at regional competitions. However, the best achievement of all was the inspiration my mother gave me to open my mind and see the beauty around me. To see the possibilities…

It’s a gift from her that I treasure to this day. s

CLEAR SOUND AUDIOLOGY WELCOMES DR. MICHELLE LANG

Dr. Swamy and Dr. Larmann are proud to announce the addition of Dr. Lang to Clear Sound Audiology. As a patient focused practice, Clear Sound Audiology offers state of the art hearing technologies individually tailored to your hearing, lifestyle, and budget.

Please call today to schedule your complimentary hearing consultation!

352-505-6766 clearsoundaudiology.com 2240 NW 40th Terrace, Suite C Gainesville, Florida 32605

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 61

61

62

PLACES >> COLORFUL DESTINATIONS

PAINT THE TOWN

EYE-CATCHING LANDMARKS SURROUNDING OUR COMMUNITY

Our Colorful Town S T O R Y A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S AVA N N A H A U S T I N

Our town has its own colorful charm, with brightly painted buildings that stand out from the street and crystal blue springs that are merely a drive away.

With so many places to see, here’s a list of some of the most delightfully vibrant landmarks. Let’s get colorful!

LITTLE RED SCHOOL HOUSE NEWBERRY Built in 1910, the Little Red School House, located at 25815 SW 2nd Ave., served as the community’s K–12 school. It was used by the Alachua County School System until Newberry Elementary School was built in 1975, according to Newberry records. However, the new school wasn’t ready on the first day of the school year, so students attended classes at the Little Red School House until October 13, 1975. That day, led by Principal 62 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Geraldine Getzen carrying the flag, students and teachers gathered their belongings and walked from the school to the new building.

After the switch, the city took over management of the red brick building to restore it, according to Newberry records.

Through the years, the school was passed to several different owners, and was renovated by the work and fundraising effort of civic groups, local businesses and citizens, including the Getzen family. In 1999, restoration was completed after the city received a grant and in 2002, the city and state officials celebrated the Little Red School House’s official opening as a historic landmark.

Now, the building houses a museum curated by members of the Friends of the Little Red School House and offices for the city of Newberry.

HIGH SPRINGS PLAYHOUSE HIGH SPRINGS Before it became a center for performing arts, the baby blue High Springs playhouse, located at 130 NE 1st Ave., used to be known as the “pink church” and housed several businesses and churches. In October 2001, the building was purchased by the High Springs Community Theater group. The

group had been searching for a venue of its own after sharing space with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs’ local chapter for over eight years, according to the High Springs Playhouse website.

In January 2002, the building’s interior was renovated under the direction of Tom Solomon, a local business owner, to add a stage, a team room, green room and dressing rooms. The next month, the group hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for the new building. “Man of La Mancha” was the first show presented on the new stage a week later.

RAINBOW SPRINGS STATE PARK DUNNELLON Traveling by car from UF campus, this colorful destination is just an hour away.

Located at 19158 SW 81st Place Road, archaeological evidence suggests that Rainbow Springs has been used by people for almost 10,000 years, according to Florida State Parks information. As the fourth largest spring in Florida, it was a privately-owned park from the 1930s to the 1970s. Now, the

Make time for the important things!

Call Mini Maid today for a free, no-hassle cleaning quote.

352-374-4141

FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL AND DEPENDABLE No contracts required. One-time cleanings are available.

Licensed, Bonded and Insured. Major Credit Cards Accepted.

www.MiniMaidGainesville.com ©2018 Alachua County Mini Maid. All rights reserved.

BATHROOMS • KITCHEN • VACUUM CARPETS • MOP MAY/JUNE 2018 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE DUST AND TIDY HOME • CHANGE LINENS

| 63

63

64

PLACES >> COLORFUL DESTINATIONS

“You can see why it’s named rainbow springs.”

state park offers visitors views of waterfalls, brilliant aqua water to swim in and colorful gardens. Guests can kayak, canoe, snorkel by the springs and tube down the

Rainbow River.

Kentucky resident Leah Stubbs, 41, and her family took advantage of wading in the crystal blue waters for the first time.

Her daughter, dressed in a rainbow bathing suit, said swimming is her favorite part.

“You can see why it’s named rainbow springs,” Stubbs said.

CLIENT FOCUSED. RESULTS DRIVEN.

CLIENT FOCUSED. RES

Whether you are facing a life-changing divorce or life-altering injury, our focus is on you and your family. Our attorneys are experienced in and out of the courtroom.

You need to get you and your family the best representation possible, and that is what we strive to be. When life becomes unfair, call us. We will help make sure your rights are protected.

Free Personal Injury Consultations

Here for your family, and your future.

CALL 352-327-3643 Se Habla Español

CALL 352-433-1171

Personal Injury Law Family Law Probate/Estate 64 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

K

Hablamos H ablamos Español Español Free Personal Main M ain O Office ffi fic ce G Gainesville ain nesvillle e Injury Consultations

UF HEALTH SHANDS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL GAINESVILLE In September 2014, UF Health debuted its colorful new façade as a part of its initiative to renovate and rebrand for UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. The previously indistinct brick building was given a kidfriendly exterior through the work of architecture firm Ponikvar and Associates Inc. and Ajax Construction Inc. The design is made up of painted, stainless steel woven wire mesh created by HAVER & BOECKER, according to the architecture and design website Archello. To make a new identity for the children’s hospital, the vibrant wire mesh panels were layered over the brick. The design features 19, 85-foot-long panels that slope diagonally to represent green, rolling hills. The red, yellow, blue and purple panels behind it are not solid, but are transparent so as to interact with the artificial light inside and daylight, according to Archello.

The bright colors of the hospital can be seen from Southwest Archer Road and help the building appeal to young visitors.

ESULTS DRIVEN. Gil Alba

Karen Yochim

Gilil Alba G Alba

Karen K are en n Yochim Yochiim

ville. v illle e.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 65

65

66

PLACES >> COLORFUL DESTINATIONS 66 |

SANTA FE COLLEGE FINE ARTS BUILDING GAINESVILLE

BUTTERFLY RAINFOREST GAINESVILLE

In November 2017, the white walls of Santa Fe College’s Fine Arts Building E were replaced by an explosion of color. In partnership with 352walls/Gainesville Urban Art Initiative, the college commissioned Dublin artist Al Maser to paint the largest mural in the 352walls project.

Maser comes from a background in spray paint graffiti on the streets of Dublin and studied in London, England, according to the Independent Florida Alligator. The urban landscape of London inspired him to paint plants, with the Santa Fe mural featuring many different colorful plants among stripes and shapes.

Maser spent two weeks working on the project with Santa Fe art students to help speed up the process, but also to give the young artists ownership over the project, according to Santa Fe College news.

“I’ve wanted us to have that done for a long time,” Fine Arts professor Matt Shaffer said. He had painted a small mural on one of the other buildings prior to Maser coming.

“I think all the murals going up all over Gainesville are really great,” he said. “It’s a good way for us to sort of make a little mark and show how much we appreciate art and the role that art plays in our society and community.”

The Butterfly Rainforest, a permanent exhibit at the Florida Museum of Natural History, located at 3215 Hull Road, offers visitors lush greenery, colorful flowers and plants, waterfalls and walking trails. The rainforest is a 6,400-square-foot screened area attached to the museum to allow for natural weather conditions, according to the Florida Museum. At any time, between 60 to 80 butterflies and moths of all different colors can be seen floating from plant to plant or eating at feeding stations and will even land on visitors. The butterflies and plants are rotated frequently, and come from butterfly farms around the world, according to the museum.

The exhibit is open to the public and butterflies are released Monday through Friday at 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Ticket prices range from $6 to $13.

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Take a photo by any of these landmarks mentioned above and send it to editor@towerpublications.com. We’ll post your photo to our Facebook page along with a special shout out! s PHOTOGRAPHY: SAVANNAH AUSTIN, KRISTIN KOZELSKY

ADVENTURE AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION SUMMER CAMP FOR TEENS 12-16 YEARS

SCUBA SUMMER CAMP 2018 2 018 CAMP SESSIONS

SESSION 1: JUNE SESSION 2: JULY

24 – JULY 7 8 – JULY 21

LIMITED OPENINGS AVAILABLE!! MENTION THIS AD IN OUR TOWN MAGAZINE FOR PRIORITY RESERVATION!

SCUBA DIVING • FISHING • HIKING • 3-DAY CANOE TRIP SPRINGS & RIVER ECOLOGY EDUCATION AND MORE! CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION

>>

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!

352-641-0350

EarthImmersion.com

WE WILL MAKE YOUR COUNTERTOPS & STONE FLOORS SHINE LIKE NEW AGAIN!

• • • • •

MARBLE GRANITE TRAVERTINE TERRAZZO SLATE

STONE RESTORATION • DIAMOND HONING & POLISHING • SEALING

352-380-0102 CleanZoneClean.com

Family-owned and operated since 1997

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 67

67

68

ARCHITECTURE >> ANTONI GAUDÍ

HOW GAUDY!

Antoni Gaudí Spain’s Most Whimsical Architect S T O R Y A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A

B

arcelona, Spain, is home to a few architectural wonders that seem to unfold from the pages of fairytales. Behind gingerbread-style homes frosted with icing roofs and sprinkled with candy-like stones, a large mosaic salamander guards a fountain while basking in the sunshine. Varying shades of blues, greens, yellows and reds are blended together and scattered throughout this park leaving visitors questioning if this place is even real. Not far from here, a substantial gothic church emits an enchanting and heavenly presence. While the outside structure is overwhelming on its own, the real magic comes from the interior, with stained-glass windows casting light upon the honeycomb ceiling above tree-topped columns.

Other artistic touches throughout the city include curvy, beveled windowsills and colors splattered across apartment buildings. Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, with imagination, creativity and talent far ahead of his time, designed these works of art.

Gaudí was born in Reus, Spain, in 1852, but after obtaining his degree in Barcelona, this fast-paced city became not only his muse but the site of his creations. His unique style defied traditional architecture ideas and he, along with other artists, became part of the modernisme movement, which is a style characterized by the use of bright colors, botanical shapes and curves, according to the Barcelona-Life.com article “Modernisme: Catalan Art Nouveau.” While most of Gaudí’s works are functional structures like houses or churches, everything he touched is breathtaking.

68 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

The Casa Batlló (right) was designed

by Gaudí as a home but is now used to host events. According to casabattlo.es, the outside exterior is a mosaic style “composed of pieces of glass and ceramic discs.”

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 69

69

70

ARCHITECTURE >> ANTONI GAUDÍ

This gingerbread-like home acts as an entrance into Park Güell.

Though this was originally designed as a home in a 60-plot development, it is now part of a public park.

PARK GÜELL Two gingerbread homes stand side by side with a delicious appearance Hansel and Gretel would dream of devouring. These two former homes act as the gateway to Park Güell, a place full of enchantment and wonder. The tallest and most prominent structure in the park is the marketplace. Accessed by two staircases and guarded by a colorful dragon creature and a larger-than-life salamander, the marketplace has an esplanade-style roof which allows visitors to look out across the city.

Eusebi Güell commissioned Gaudí for several projects after seeing a window display he had designed for a glove retailer at the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1878. This projects included designing furniture for the pantheon chapel, building Güell’s home, and of course creating Park Güell. The park, which began in 1900, was designed similar to a housing development with a total of 60 plots available for purchase, according to parkgüell.cat.

In 1903, two entrance pavilions, a main flight of steps, an outer enclosure, and parts of the esplanade were almost complete. The first residents to the park included Gaudí, Güell and a friend. In 1914, with only two out of the 60 plots purchased, the project was abandoned. Although the park wasn’t complete, Güell turned it into a large private garden that was also used to host events. After Güell died in 1918, the City Council purchased the land, and Park Güell opened as a municipal park in 1926. Other changes to the venue included turning Güell’s home into a state school and converting Gaudí’s former home into the Gaudí House Museum in 1963.

70 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

The Sagrada Família has been under construction for over 100 years, but the cathedral is scheduled to finally be finished in 2026. Gaudí took inspiration for the Basílica De La Sagrada Família from nature, which can be seen in the cathedral’s ceiling. Tree-shaped columns topped with the appearance of branches stretch up to a honeycomb-style ceiling.

BASÍLICA DE LA SAGRADA FAMÍLIA Gaudí’s most notable project, which began over a century ago, has yet to be finished. The Sagrada Família’s outside façade follows the gothic style of cathedrals. Surrounded by a total of 18 towers, its exterior can seem intimidating; nevertheless the church’s interior offers a warm, magical feeling. Besides incorporating details from the Christian faith, Gaudí also took inspiration for his design from nature.

The inside columns mimic trees that are so tall they could reach into heaven, and rays of colored light fill flower-shaped windows. While the cathedral is in its final stages of completion, it has certainly gone through a lot to get there.

Back in 1866, Josep Maria Bocabella i Verdaguer founded the organization that would campaign for the funds to build the Sagrada Família, which is also known as the Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family. Construction began in 1882, but after disagreements with the first architect, Gaudí took over and brought his creative influences into the mix and designed something far more monumental than originally planned. In 1914, Gaudí devoted most, if not all, of his effort

to working on the Sagrada Família. However, in June 1926 Gaudí was hit by a tram and died three days later from his injuries.

With the plans already drawn, fellow architects and collaborators knew of Gaudí’s vision for the basilica, however, the Sagrada Família would have a few more unlucky breaks on its road to completion. In 1936 “after the military uprising and the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, revolutionaries set fire to the crypt, burnt down the provisional school ... and destroyed the studio workshop,” according to sagradafamilia.org.

“Original plans, drawings and photographs were lost and many large-scale plaster models were broken.”

Francesc de Paula Quintana i Vidal, an architect who had worked with Gaudí in the past, began to restore the basilica.

Throughout the years many other architects, some of whom also worked directly with Gaudí, have spent their time contributing to the Sagrada Família. In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI consecrated the basilica. Though monumental, the now-sacred ground couldn’t protect the basilica from another arson attack in 2011. According to theguardian. com, a local man walked into the sacristy — a room that keeps parish records, priests’ robes and other items — sprayed it with a flammable liquid, and set the robes on fire.

Not only was the sacristy destroyed, but also the crypt that was built during Gaudí’s time on the project was severely damaged.

Despite such a setback, the Basílica De La Sagrada Família is set to be finished in 2026 — 144 years after the first stone was set.

FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS!

First In Quality & Service Since 1975

Quarterly Pest Management Termite Treatment & Prevention Residential Commercial

A1 Pest Control First in Quality... First in Service... Since 1975

Trenton Area

Newberry/ Jonesville Area

352-463-2469

352-332-2833

www.A1PestInc.com

QUALITY PLANTS & SERVICE WE SPECIALIZE IN:

• PALMS & LANDSCAPE PLANTS • SEASONAL PLANTS & FLOWERS • PINE BARK • CYRESS MULCH • POTTING SOIL

OTHER PROJECTS Some of Gaudí’s other works throughout Barcelona include Casa Batlló, a former home turned event hall with oddly shaped windows and a color-splashed exterior, and Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera), an apartment building with wavy walls and curvy ledges.

Although Gaudi died in 1926 at the age of 74, his work and creativity lives on throughout the Barcelona skyline. Though originally not enjoyed by everyone, his unique style deserves appreciation for giving something awe-inspiring, with a touch of whimsy, to Spain. s

We welcome Justin Ivey to the team!

Blooming House Nursery 15220 W NEWBERRY RD. NEWBERRY, FL. 32669

DELIVERY AVAILABLE!

352.472.3111 MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 71

71

72

COMMUNITY >> OUR TOWNIES

Rosalee Stevens (left) loves the color blue, which she believes accentuates her crystal blue eyes.

Darcia Stevens (middle) enjoys the color purple because it reminds her of spring and all of the bright colors that accompany it. David Dush (right) said that he is drawn to the color blue because it reminds him of time spent near the water.

OUR TOWNIES

What’s Your Favorite Color?

STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY STEPH STR ICK L A N D

Angela McDole (left) loves how bright the color yellow can be, and she said it complements her skin tone and has become a go-to color for her outfits. Zireya Brown (right) said she gravitates toward wearing blue, and Nyla Brown (front) loves looking at the color pink because it makes her happy. Finally, Rennetta Brown (middle) is always seen with a splash of red somewhere on her person. “It matches my complexion and looks nice in general,” she said.

72 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

GOT PAIN? TRY LASER

THERAPY.

Gabby Bellucci (middle) said that pink is her favorite color because “it is very light and pretty.”

Seth Bellucci (right) has always been a fan of the color blue, and it matches well with his eyes. Their mother, Mindy Bellucci (left), said she appreciates the “bold and bright” nature of the color red.

Nick Thompson (right) also really likes the color blue, and during the Easter egg hunt on Saturday March 31, Nick managed to almost exclusively find blue eggs.

Tyler Thompson (middle) agreed with his brother and hoped that the Easter bunny would bring blue eggs this year. Their mother, Jamie Thompson (left), has always been drawn to the striking color violet.

Amanda Cash (left) loves the color blue because she said it calms her. Whereas, Amanda’s close friend, Jennifer Blackburn (right), immediately said that purple has always been her go-to favorite color. She pondered on why this color has always been so striking to her, and concluded that she has always been inherently drawn to purple ever since she was a little girl. s

Laser Therapy Treatment over your painful neck, shoulders, arms, legs, hands or feet.

To learn more about laser therapy visit www.k-laserusa. com OR Call to schedule your COMPLIMENTARY visit!

386-454-4055 www.drjackschiropractic.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 73

73

74

RECIPE SERIES >> COOKING WITH COLOR

HOME SKILLET

Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd ’s

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

CO O

S

K I N G W I T H CO L O R

ince I grew up as a farmer’s daughter, I developed a love of fresh vegetables—the fresher, the better! Most were picked straight from my parent’s garden. I have sweet memories of my mother busily preparing a meal and saying, “Cynthie, go out and cut some lettuce for dinner.”

I would go directly out to the garden and cut lettuce, pick a few ripe tomatoes off the vine, and add any other veggies that were ripe and in season. They were picked, rinsed and on the table in less than 10 minutes. My mother’s garden was as vibrant as a painter’s palette, full of bright colors and every shade of the rainbow. It was a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Now that I’m away from the farm and don’t have a garden of my own, I enjoy weekly visits to our local farmer’s market. I love to try new varieties of vegetables such as rainbow carrots, red turnips and purple potatoes. You never know what you will find. I always ask the vendors for suggestions on how to prepare the veggies. Sometimes they say they eat them raw, as a healthy

snack. But sometimes I get tips on roasting or stir-frying, as well as other recipe ideas. I encourage you to explore your local farmer’s markets and try something new. I think you will find your favorites such as strawberries and lettuce are even better from the market. And you might want to try some farm fresh eggs gathered from free-range chickens.

So why not color up your own dinner table with some fresh vegetables? There is no need to fall into a rut, making the same hamburger patty night after night. My personal favorite way to use these colorful vegetables goes back to my mother’s kitchen where she would make a “farmer’s skillet.” Mother would use ground beef or ground turkey as the base and then throw in whatever vegetable she had on hand. Add some fresh herbs, and let the magic happen. Each time you make it, it will come out a little different—but the result will be the same: fresh, fragrant and delicious!

I have a included a few ideas for making your own “farmer’s skillet”—but let your imagination (and taste buds) lead the way.

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

74 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

A palette of color for your palate of flavor!

This eye-catching meal will surely be a hit at your next dinner party.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 75

75

76

FARMER’S SKILLET RECIPE SERIES >> COOKING WITH COLOR

INGREDIENTS:

1-2

pounds ground beef or turkey.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil.

Fresh chopped vegetables (the more varied and colorful, the better).

Salt and pepper to taste.

Fresh herbs such as rosemary, oregano or basil.

1/4 cup frozen sweet corn, more or less.

METHOD:

Wash and pat dry the vegetables, then chop or slice them into medium size pieces. Suggested veggies I have used are rainbow carrots, red turnips, cherry tomatoes, sweet potatoes, purple potatoes, peppers (green, red, yellow, orange), peas, onions and mushrooms. I usually add frozen sweet corn a few minutes before serving (unless fresh corn is in season).

Start by sautéing the meat and chopped onions in a large skillet to which the oil has been added. Stir with a spatula until nicely browned. Drain off some of the grease, but not all. You will need some grease to cook the chopped veggies. I add the more dense vegetables first, like potatoes and carrots, etc.

The more tender vegetables, such as mushrooms and peppers, are added a few minutes later. Salt and pepper to taste, and then add your favorite fresh herbs. Finally, I add the frozen sweet corn a few minutes before taking the skillet off the stove. Keep a watch on the skillet while it is cooking, and stir with your spatula so that the mixture doesn’t burn on the bottom.

Complement the meal with white or brown rice and a nice fresh salad. If you haven’t used potatoes in the skillet mixture, a nice variation is to place it on top of a serving of mashed potatoes.

It gives the dish a nice hearty flavor similar to shepherd’s pie. Take it from me — I think you’re going to like it!

There’s nothin’ like home cookin’… s

76 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Designed with your family in mind.

Home + Life

Protect what you’ve worked hard for.

No matter where you live or what kind of home you have, I can help you find coverage that fits your needs. Plus, Allstate TrueFit® Life Insurance could be customized to help pay off your mortgage so your loved ones have one less thing to worry about if you’re gone.

Call me today.

HUGH L CAIN 386-462-7093

Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Ins. Co., Allstate Property and Casualty Ins. Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Ins. Co. and affiliates: 2775 Sanders Rd., Northbrook, IL 60062. In areas where Allstate home products are not available, home policies may be written by a third-party company not affiliated with Allstate. Allstate TrueFit is a term life insurance to age 95 policy issued by Allstate Assurance Co., 3075 Sanders Rd., Northbrook, IL 60062, and is available in most states with contract/series ICC14AC1/AC14-1. In New York, issued

by Allstate Life Ins. Co. of New York, Home Office: Hauppauge, NY. Allstate TrueFit is available with contract NYLU818. This policy has exclusions, limitations and terms that may affect coverage, renewal, cancellation, termination or other contractual rights and benefits. © 2017 Allstate Ins. Co.

MAY/JUNE 2018

231364

Let me help you rest easy knowing your family is protected.

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 77

77

78

BOOK REVIEW

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner THE SELF-DISCIPLINE HANDBOOK written by Natalie Wise

C.2017, SKYHORSE PUBLISHING, $14.99 / $22.99 CANADA, 192 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

TAKE YOUR PICK.

T

elevision, or getting that project done.

Finishing tax-prep, or cruising online?

Burritos, or bananas? Take your pick, life always has choices… but read “The Self-Discipline Handbook” by Natalie Wise first, and you may gain more willpower.

Take a look at the closest dictionary, and you’ll see that self-discipline is basically “passion and purpose” and “doing what we think is right.” So now you know what it means… but does that make it any easier?

Yes, says Wise, because there are steps you can take to gain self-discipline. It starts small, and it grows with consistent practice.

Another ingredient: knowing your strengths and “Owning the negative parts of yourself” so you can watch that they don’t “trip you up.” Note which strengths or weaknesses are harder to accept.

Cultivate creativity and curiosity. Do so with a change in environment or perspective, and by nurturing yourself with occasional indulgences. Take naps. Eat snacks. Put relaxation on your schedule, and be sure not to deny yourself. That will help keep your energy up, because self-discipline “craves it.”

If you begin to falter in your path, add humility to your self-discipline tool kit and ask for help. There’s nothing shameful in a hand-up; the bonus is that it teaches you how to say “no” when you need it.

Have a hobby, but don’t dabble in “your hustle.” Eliminate “just because” chores and make sure there’s a reason for tasks you perform every day. Don’t just “get by” on the things that

78 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

are important; if something’s really important, then “make it happen.”

Get organized, including a written list of daily tasks to be done. Find your passion, even if it’s not for the thing your self-discipline efforts are focused on. Break tasks up into smaller projects, if the whole feels too daunting. Know how to avoid burn-out at all costs. And be patient: gaining self-discipline is absolutely “worth achieving….”

Though it’s quite simplistic, “The Self-Discipline Handbook” surely could be of some help to anyone for whom procrastination is the default position. It’s useful – but you have some “get-through” to get through first.

First of all, readers who just want the facts may bristle at the new agey-ness here. Talking to your bodily organs might seem odd to some, and the over-advice on healthy eating is rather superfluous in a time when nutrition guidelines are everywhere – especially when author Natalie Wise admits to be a major proponent of snacking.

Another angle: abounding alliteration’s also annoying, after all.

Still, how could you resist even just a small bit of focus-help? How could you resist a book that makes self-discipline so step-by-step attainable? If your workday is scattered and you know you can do better, you can’t resist the help – especially if you keep in mind that nobody says you have to read every single page.

If you’ve got goals and you’re feeling panicked or if you just need a brush-up, this book may be a good lifeline. Take a deep breath. It’s okay. “The Self-Discipline Handbook” is a book to pick… up. s

386-454-1488

visit us online at www.JimDouglasSales.com

Free Delivery & Set Up No Credit Check Lifetime Warranty Rent-to-own w/small downs & easy payment plans

Available at

US 441, High Springs

FRONT END ALIGNMENT SPECIAL

Wildcard

$

95

39

SOME EXCLUSION MAY APPLY. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER OR COUPON. PLUS TAX AND SHOP SUPPLIES. MUST PRESENT COUPON WHEN ORDER IS WRITTEN. EXPIRES 05-31-18.

Y o u r tr u

sted dealer since 1926

We do it all!

BRAKES MAINTENANCE REPAIRS

WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS 18300 NW US Highway 441 • High Springs, FL 32643

386-454-1488 JimDouglasService.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 79

79

80

ANCIENT ART FORMS >> TIE-DYE

A PEACE OF HISTORY

THERE’S MORE TO THESE COLORFUL CREATIONS THAN MEETS THE EYE

Psychedelic Palette W R ITTEN BY CA MERON COBB

What do you think of when you see tie-dye?

If the iconic design conjures up thoughts of peace signs and eclectic rock music, you’re on point with the symbols of tie-dye during its American popularity in the 1960s. But the groovy arts-and-crafts project goes beyond being an iconic symbol for hippie-aged movements. Tie-dye techniques have been used in all sorts of cultural practices throughout history, with some dating back as far as 4000 B.C. (talk about retro!)

Tying involves sectioning off pin-sized points of fabric to create different patterns, like dots or waves. According to saree. com, males are typically tasked with dyeing, leaving females to tie using their fingernails to pick the cloth – a technique that dates back to 4000 B.C. In order to attain such small details, women have to grow their thumb and forefinger nails very long.

Literally every thread of hard work counts, as Bandhani material is priced according to the number of dots in the pattern, with intricate pieces having nearly 75,000!

JAPAN INDIA Bandhani (deriving from the Hindi word Bandhan meaning “tying up”) is among the oldest forms of decorated textiles, according to indiamarks.com. In this method, silk or cotton cloth is tied into sections and then dipped into color. The most common colors are yellow, red, green and black.

80 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

An ancestor and current practice of tie-dye, shibori stems from the Japanese verb root shiboru, which means “to wring, squeeze, press.” Shibori can be found all over the world, with some of the oldest examples discovered in fourth-century tombs along the Silk Road in China and Peru dating back to pre-Colombian times. The specifics of shibori vary from culture

to culture – fabric might come from sheep in the Himalayas or abaca budding in the jungles of the Philippines, according to shibori.org.

There are even different methods for crafting shibori designs, though the traditional arashi way involves diagonally winding kimono cloth onto a 12-foot-long wooden pole and then twisting thread around the fabric to create scrunches and patterns that will be emphasized when colored. Following the dyeing process, many patterns mimic rain moving in strong winds, tying back into the appropriately named arashi (meaning “storm”). And just like modern tie-dye, creating shibori means that “the unexpected is always present.”

In other words, while colors and cloth can be manipulated, the actual result remains a mystery. These elements of uncertainty and chance are factors that “give life” to the shibori process and contribute to “its special magic and strongest appeal,” according to shibori.org

by

AMERICA First popular in the USA during the 1960s, tie-dye was heavily adopted by young adults. The new style became a common symbol of rebellion – whether that be in vibrant opposition of the Vietnam War or as a flashy way to standout against the conservative dress of their parents’ generation.

During this era, those who opposed the values of hippies dubbed tie-dye as “a symbol of drug use, irresponsibility and mindless rebellion,” according to fashionencyclopedia.com.

Attracting the creative and the cost-cautious, tie-dye was an instant trendsetter.

Aspiring fashionistas need only an old t-shirt, which is then wound tight with string and dipped in their favorite shades of dye (and for the really frugal, Kool-Aid packets!).

The tie-dye craze died down during the 1980s before it picked back up again in the ‘90s. But unlike the unique, hand-crafted designs of decades prior, turn-of-the-century tie-dye was typically mass-produced and sold in standard clothing stores.

Regardless of where and how it’s made, tie-dye continues to paint the world in color and leave its stroke throughout history. s

GET YOURS TODAY! • Free Local Delivery • 0% Interest Financing Up To 60 Months • Over 150 Mattress Sets In Stock • Locally Owned Business

15981 NW US 441 Alachua • 386-518-2002 •MAY/JUNE mattressexperts.biz 2018 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE |

81

81

82

HISTORIC DESIGN >> SWEETWATER BRANCH INN

BED AND BREAKFAST

Sweetwater Branch Inn Victorian Splendor in Historic Downtown Gainesville S TORY A N D PH OTOG R A PH Y BY PEGGY M AC DON A LD

I

n the Victorian era, homes were decorated with vivid colors designed to make a statement. The 1895 McKenzie House, a three-story Queen Anne style house at 617 E. University Ave., is the crown jewel in a collection of Victorian homes and cottages that comprise Sweetwater Branch Inn. The Holbrook family carefully restored the house after Juan and Giovanna purchased it in 1978. “It was a really long, painful process,” Giovanna Holbrook reflected. “All the original wood inside had 13 coats of paint, so we had to strip it all.”

The Holbrooks invested “everything we had and more” into the house, Giovanna said. “It was a very big sacrifice.”

The family’s hard work and dedication eventually paid off. In 1982, the McKenzie House was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Giovanna

82 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

and one of her three children, Andrea, lived in the house from 1982 to 1998.

Today, the building is a bed and breakfast with The Sweet Tea restaurant on the ground floor and additional seating on the spacious wrap-around veranda. The Sweet Tea specializes in new century Southern cuisine and is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant was recently closed for kitchen renovations and is expected to reopen in July.

Although purchasing the McKenzie House was Giovanna Holbrook’s idea, the inspiration to open a bed and breakfast came from her daughter, Cornelia.

“When she was 14 years old, she said, ‘Mother, I want to have a bed and breakfast,’” Giovanna recalled.

“I wanted to be able to bring my kids to work,” Cornelia explained.

Cornelia told her mother she wanted to call the

Giovanna Holbrook helped make her daughter’s dream of starting a bed and breakfast come true. Giovanna purchased and restored the 1895 McKenzie House, a Queen Anne-style Victorian house that Cornelia Holbrook later transformed into a portion of the Sweetwater Branch Inn and The Sweet Tea restaurant.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 83

83

84

HISTORIC DESIGN >> SWEETWATER BRANCH INN 84 |

bed and breakfast Sweetwater Branch Inn, after the creek that flows through downtown Gainesville. Giovanna said she registered the name the day her daughter first mentioned it.

After graduating from the University of Florida in 1987 with a degree in anthropology, Cornelia worked at the Carriage Way Bed & Breakfast in St. Augustine’s historic district. She also worked for her mother at Holbrook Travel.

“It was not easy working for my mom,” Cornelia recalled.

“At the beginning she cried because I was tough,” Giovanna added. “But she became a very good employee.”

One thing Giovanna and Cornelia worked on together was fostering a relationship with Road Scholar, which offers experiential learning programs around the world. The Holbrooks’ partnership with Road Scholar helped put Sweetwater Branch Inn on the map.

Road Scholar participants take guided tours of the Gainesville area’s natural and historic sites led by experts in the field. Each day begins and ends with delicious food and good conversation at Sweetwater Branch Inn. The beautifully preserved buildings of Sweetwater Branch Inn are the center of not only Road Scholar programs, but also events ranging from destination weddings to reunions and organizational meetings. Cornelia Holbrook’s attention to detail keeps the inn and event facilities running smoothly.

Each room in the McKenzie House is furnished and decorated distinctively. A dramatic lion’s face by Peruvian artist Victor Delfín covers the fireplace at the entrance to the McKenzie House. Other rooms feature colorful murals painted by local artists.

“Impresiona,” Giovanna said in Spanish, stressing the importance of making a good impression upon guests. An Italian native, Giovanna met her husband, Juan, in London and moved with him to Chile shortly after the birth of their first child, David, who later became a majority owner of the Seagle Building. The Holbrooks decided to leave Chile when Salvador Allende came to power.

Giovanna described women’s protests during the rise of Allende.

“The women were very strong in Chile,” she said. “They used to go with empty casserole dishes and protest, ‘We need to eat.’ I knew then it was time to leave.”

The Holbrooks moved to Gainesville, where Juan entered a doctoral program in engineering and physics. “At that time Gainesville was still very small,” Giovanna remembered. She worked for a travel service for several years before starting her own company, Holbrook Travel, in 1974.

Giovanna’s parents instilled her with a strong work ethic that she passed on to her own children. “I love to work,” Giovanna said. “We were raised on a farm where we had to work for two hours before we sat down to breakfast.”

At Sweetwater Branch Inn, breakfast comes first for guests, but behind the scenes, Cornelia works hard to ensure that every guest has a magical experience.

“This was my dream,” Cornelia said.

Cornelia Holbrook has transformed Sweetwater Branch Inn into a destination for heritage tourists. Stop by the McKenzie House in July for lunch at The Sweet Tea, and step back in time in one of the most opulent Victorian houses in Gainesville. s OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Always great vehicles Always great prices!

• No Credit Check!

• All Cars $0 down • Cash Cars Starting at only $1,000 • Will Finance Anyone

Sun City Auto Sales

(352) 338-1999

WN

P

A

P

TODAY!

D

IRISHMA

N’S

Drive Home

OL

BUY • SELL • TRADE • LOANS GUNS • GOLD • TOOLS

SH

O

We Buy JEWELRY GUNS • TOOLS LAWN CARE EQUIPMENT

n a o l e W oney! m

“Wishin’ you a pot o’ gold, andd all the joy your heart can hold”

386-454-5348 715 NW SANTA FE BLVD HIGH SPRING, FL 32643 MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 85

85

86

COLORS >> SCIENCE & CULTURE

FEELING BLUE?

THE RED HOT TRUTH ABOUT COLOR AND EMOTIONS

The Hue of Your Mood W R ITTEN BY PEGGY M ACDONA LD

Colors can be the most lucid way to evoke a mood.

Consider Pablo Picasso’s early Blue Period, during which he created a series of melancholy paintings in various shades of blue, reflecting the depression he felt following the loss of his best friend, Carles Casagemas.

“Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions,” Picasso said.

Psychologists note that color can affect not only mood, but also taste and fashion.

“Ever tried strawberries colored in grayish brown?” Asked Andreas Keil, professor of psychology at the University of Florida, in an April 4 email. “Just not as tasty. Chocolate? Much better!”

In addition to color affecting the perception of taste, research has shown that darkness and light have a major impact upon psychological well-being. “There is good science showing that 86 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

being in the dark is not great for mood and even can lead to symptoms of certain types of depression,” Keil explained. “There is a reason why we do not have too many black walls in homes.

Social norms and fashion trends are also important.”

Marketers have long understood the importance of color in attracting customers. McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendy’s use warm colors in their logos and signage to stimulate the appetite.

Think of the golden arches on top of a red base with the name McDonald’s. Red is also the most provocative color women can wear on their lips, nails and clothing to attract a mate.

While red roses may symbolize love, passion and courtship, in terms of interior design, realtors advise clients to install neutral carpeting, wallpaper and painted walls such as beige to avoid offending potential buyers with bold colors like red.

“My parents’ kitchen (this is the 1970s) had a colorful pattern of circular shapes with orange, yellow, black, and brown rings, in a green background,” Keil recalled. “Right now, most people

Al Mincey Site Prep

352-538-1252 — COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL —

Fill Dirt LLimerock Demolition De Ponds Dug Pon Land C Clearing Sink kH Hole Repair Driveway Culverts Foundations Filled & more

First Coast

HOMES FirstCoastMHS.com 386-752-1432

WE W IL MEET L OR BEAT IN PRICE !

Locally Owned Sand Pit • Since 1986

AlMinceySitePrep.com

Everything but Gas & Groceries!

Specials NICE TRADE-IN 2010 16x80 9ft Ceiling Approx. $399/mo. WAC A MUST SEE! Huge 5, 3 Bath Includes Setup & A/C Only $69,900 ALACHUA FARM & LUMBER 14101 NW 145th Ave. • Alachua, FL

386.462.3003

www.alachuafarmandlumber.com

LAND/HOME Ready to Move In. DeerCreek Sub. $1,800 SF Only $84,900

We offer the largest selection in the Southeast.

We buy good used mobile homes.

2909 US HWY. 90 WEST LAKE CITY, FL MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 87

87

88

COLORS >> SCIENCE & CULTURE

Orange is associated with the sacred in many Eastern religions. Orange, the color of fire, represents purity because impurities are burned in fire. Orange is also associated with the fruit, and has become a symbol for Florida—including the University of Florida, whose colors are orange and blue.

Blue, the color of the ocean and sky, signifies peace and tranquility.

The color green evokes life and nature, which can be relaxing and refreshing.

In the western world and Japan, white is a traditional color for brides to wear (signifying purity) or the color of a laboratory coat (signifying cleanliness), while in China and some African cultures, white symbolizes mourning.

would find this irritating, including myself.”

The psychology of color is complicated. “Color is much more difficult than we take for granted, including very strong differences between men and women regarding how we name and respond to colors,” Keil said. “Remember the internet rage about ‘the dress,’ where people could not agree even on what the color of the dress was, because everyone saw it differently?”

People’s responses to color vary according to not only what the color is, but also what the colored object is. Both the color and the object play a role in determining how a color can affect someone’s mood. People also learn to associate colors with certain things.

Orange has long been associated with the sacred in many Eastern religions. Orange, the color of fire, represents purity because impurities are burned in fire. The color orange and the fruit are also closely associated. The orange has come to represent Florida as an edenic paradise. Orange sunsets are a popular theme in Florida Highwaymen paintings, which Highwaymen 88 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

biographer and historian Gary Monroe describes as optimistic and colorful paintings of Florida landscapes painted during a time of racial segregation in the Jim Crow era.

In Gainesville, the colors orange and blue are synonymous with the Florida Gators. “People in Gainesville tend to love orange and blue,” Keil said. “U.S. citizens tend to love red, white and blue, and marketers use these where they can. It is also true that certain color combinations attract our attention to a product and certain colors are signals, such as green means go, and red means stop.”

Although the colors red and green will work as signals in many situations, Keil observed, painting a store green will not guarantee a steady flow of customers to a business. “There is no science, nor common sense, to support that as a particularly clever strategy,” he said.

Colors can convey a variety of different moods or signals. For instance, red can serve to attract or to warn of danger or mistakes, such as a red ink pen. Blue, the color of the ocean and sky, can

behavior (e.g., ‘Green is peaceful and helps signify peace and tranquility, according to people relax’), the lack of theory and carefully Ravi Mehta and Rui Zhu, authors of “Blue controlled experimentation makes clear conor Red? Exploring the Effect of Color on clusions about color associations and their Cognitive Task Performances.” implications elusive,” the authors stated.

In their study, Mehta and Zhu found that Even if psychologists are reluctant to most participants preferred blue to red. Red was found to be useful when a task required verify the connections between color and people’s vigilant attention, but when a task mood, artists are quick to incorporate new colors to express mood. Just as Vincent van called for creativity and imagination, blue Gogh incorporated new artificial lighting was a more beneficial color. Consider the red exclamation mark in an email message, into his paintings in the late 19th censignifying that immediate action is required. tury, today artists are experimenting with Vantablack®, a new material unveiled by By contrast, a blue room could promote a Surrey NanoSystems in 2014. creative brainstorming session.

Vantablack absorbs 99.965 percent of Yet, there is conflicting evidence about the light that hits it, reflecting almost noththe impact of color upon mood. “If you ing. “Vantablack is read studies that say a super-black coatthat ‘green’ is ‘better’ ing that holds the than ‘red’ for ‘mood,’ I world record as the would hope that most darkest man-made readers will be skeps u b st a n c e ,” t h e tical, and they would NanoSystems website be right,” Keil noted. states. “It reflects so “Most readers will have little light that it is a very good idea as to often described as the how different colors on closest thing to a black a wall make them feel, hole we’ll ever see.” and science has not Due to its much to add to that.” extremely low lev“The findings are els of reflectance, mixed and inconsisVantablack can play tent,” University of Red can serve to attract or to warn of tricks on the human Florida psychology lecdanger or mistakes, such as a red ink pen. eye. When Vantablack turer Marina Klimenko Red roses, nail polish, clothing and lipstick signal fertility and passion. is applied to a 3-D said in an April 4 email. object, it becomes “Color perception is a Yellow, a warm color, can trigger feelings of warmth and comfort, such as this picture of difficult to see the complicated process the change of seasons in the fall. surface features on and will depend on the object because the specific context and the task that an individual is pursuing. 3-D objects start to look 2-D. “Its ability to deceive the eye opens up a Some of what we think is true seems to be supported by evidence. For example, the whole range of possibilities in design,” the color red is generally perceived and asso- Vantablack website states.

According to the experts, changing the ciated with love and passion; while black is color of your home or work environment from associated with evil or death.” time to time has been shown to promote hapKlimenko pointed to a 2007 study by piness and mood. “So whatever color you have Andrew Elliot and Markus Maier, “Color and Psychological Functioning,” which found seen for a while when looking at your wall,” that little research has been conducted Keil advised, “if you are tired of it, just change on the influence of color on psychological it, no matter what scientists have to say.”

Vantablack might not be the best color functioning. “As such, although the popular and applied literatures are replete with choice for your new wall, however, unless statements regarding the content of color staring into the equivalent of a black hole is associations and their presumed impact on the desired effect. s MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

BRINGING EXCEPTIONAL ARTISTS TO DOWNTOWN HIGH SPRINGS

FATHER’S DAY BLUES SUNDAY, JUNE 17 @ 2pm at the High Springs Museum 23760 NW 187th Avenue FEATURING: FEATUR FEA TURING ING::

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS:

JIM ALLEN’S FINGER LICKIN’ BLUES Hors d’oevres provided by: Great Outdoors Restaurant and The Diner

Reservations are required. Donation of $10 per person recommended.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY! HighSpringsMusicinthePark.com EVENTS SPONSORED IN PART BY:

| 89

89

90

STYLE TRENDS >> DECORATING FOR 2018

ON TREND

DECORATING & DESIGN TIPS FOR

2018

J’adore Décor STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY K ACEY FINCH

M

ichele Adams-Johnson of AJ’s by Design, located in Gainesville, has seen the good, the bad and the ugly over the course of her 15 years in the interior design business. Lately, she’s seen her clientele shift from older to younger couples who need help piecing together their design ideas.

Adams-Johnson knows all things design and art, from the color of the year to the trends that are making a comeback.

Color of the Year Every year, Pantone Color Institute comes out with its color of the year. The color this year? Violet. PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet to be exact.

“The Pantone Color of the Year has come to mean so much more than ‘what’s trending’ in the world of design; it’s truly 90 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

a reflection of what’s needed in our world today,” said Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute.

According to Pantone’s website, this year’s color communicates originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.

“That doesn’t mean that people are going to run out and buy violet.” Adams-Johnson said. “I think it just means that there will be hints of violet here or there.”

So, if you’re looking to add a pop of color to your décor this year, try out some violet.

Old is New “So what I see as a trend is texture, texture, texture, texture,” Adams-Johnson said. “What is old is now new again.”

The ‘new’ textures right now are taking design back to the 1960s — basket weave and grass cloth are some examples.

With that, wallpaper is also making a comeback, and the two

WE'RE HERE ALL YEAR -

S

T I TC H

AT TAX TIME, OR ANY TIME.

Caring for your pets and their special needs in their own surrounding.

IN TIME

WE UNDERSTAND YOU DON'T THINK ABOUT TAXES ALL YEAR - BUT WE DO. At H&R Block, we're available year-round to discuss the tax implications of your life-changing events. From wedding bells, babies and new homes to medical issues and natural disasters, we're here to put our expertise to work for you.

Embroidery 415 NW 250th St., Newberry (Turn North at light and we’re on the right!)

AVAILABLE AT PARTICIPATING OFFICES.

MAIL PICK-UP

PLANT WATERING

14557 NW US HWY 441 ALACHUA, FL 32615 386-462-3962

Licensed Insured

18522 NW US HWY 441, STE 10 HIGH SPRINGS, FL 32643 386-454-3800

352-363-0106

Your Logo.

Your way.

Custom Embroidery!

& Grooming

No order is too small!

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN SURGERY 15-485

352-316-5658

HRBLOCK.COM

HOURS: Tues – Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-2pm

OBTP# B13696 ©2015 HRB Tax Group, Inc.

WE

APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINE SS!

City Boys Tire, Brake & Repair HIGH SPRINGS, FLORIDA

386-454-2193

A/C INSPECTION & FREON CHARGE

OIL CHANGE & TIRE ROTATION

REG. $59.95 | FREON EXTRA

REG. $49.95 | LUBE+FILTER INCLUDED

$

$

2495

95

19

Most Vehicles

$

$

2495

95

24

Most Vehicles.

Shop Supply Fee. Full Synthetic Extra.

Exp 05-31-18. Our Town - Can’t combine with any other offers or discounts.

Exp 05-31-18. Our Town - Can’t combine with any other offers or discounts.

FULL SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE

FRONT-END WHEEL ALIGNMENT

FRONT OR REAR BRAKE REPLACEMENT

INCLUDES FILTER, LABOR & DISPOSAL

REGULARLY $69.95

INCLUDES PADS & LABOR

$

$

2495

95

44

Up to 5 quarts, $6.99 each additional quart

Exp 05-31-18. Our Town - Can’t combine with any other offers or discounts.

$

$

4995

95

49

Most Vehicles

Exp 05-31-18. Our Town - Can’t combine with any other offers or discounts.

9995

$

$

9995

Most Vehicles

Exp 05-31-18. Our Town - Can’t combine with any other offers or discounts.

WWW.CITYBOYS.COM MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 91

91

92

STYLE TRENDS >> DECORATING FOR 2018

new-yet-old trends are intertwining.

“Wallpaper is back, but it’s back in a revised characteristic, so it has basket weave and grass cloth and all kinds of fun things,” Adams-Johnson said. “They’re very different from what was.”

She said 1970s metallic is also being given a new twist, adding modern touches like rose, champagne and gold colors, along with cork textures.

Furniture is coming back revitalized as well. Another big trend for this summer, the interior designer said, is cane, also a reflection of earlier times but painted in bright colors.

“One of the other trends I’m seeing is in furniture, very characteristic Victorian love seats with acrylic legs,” AdamsJohnson said. “It’s very 1970s but it’s got a new twist on it, it’s more modern and cool.”

Putting a modern twist on old design trends seems to be very popular this year.

92 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Summer to Fall Cool colors are all the rage this year, but once fall comes around, those colors will need to be warmed up.

“I think what’s going to happen is this new trend of cooler colors, they’ll have to warm them up,” Adams-Johnson said.

“Add warmer colors to those cool tones.”

She suggests adding in neutral tones like brown and black to make the design more suited for the fall and winter seasons.

Outdoors Floridians love to spend their summers outside, in the backyard grilling and swimming in the pool, so backyards and porches need some design elements too.

While Adams-Johnson doesn’t do a lot of outside designing, she has found a new trend—screened-in porches to keep those mosquitos and other pests out of the pool area.

FORRESTER REALTY “DEPEND ON IT”

ForresterRealty.com 352-339-6069 cell 386-454-3633 office

Going beyond the regular screened-in porch, she’s seen people get detachable screens that unfold with just the click of a button. Although they are not inexpensive, it might be a good investment for those who practically live in their Florida backyards.

She said she gave a mom of two young boys a sample of Crypton material to take home and test out. Raspberries, Jell-O, it all wiped right off, and the mom got the white couch she always wanted.

“It’s kind of superman-ish,” AdamsJohnson said.

Pro-Tip for a White Couch Adams-Johnson has had three clients in the past year want white couches, and all of them have had the same concerns: A white couch with young kids and pets just doesn’t seem to mix.

The seasoned interior designer has the solution—Crypton, a green product that is nontoxic and doesn’t stain.

2018 design trends include violet, old becoming new and a solution to dirty white couches. Interior design, in general, seems to have a revitalized characteristic.

“The new, younger designers didn’t live through the 70s,” Adams-Johnson said.

“Designers go back and go ‘oh let me twist that.’” s

JimDouglasUsedCars.com

386-454-1488 US Hwy 441, High Springs

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 93

93

94

HUMAN CONDITION >> COLOR BLINDNESS

DON’T TURN A BLIND EYE

EnChroma glasses help people that are red-green color blind, which Kent Street, the director of marketing at EnChroma, said is 98 to 99 percent of people that are color blind.

A LOOK INTO COLOR BLINDNESS

In Missing Color W R ITTEN BY JESSICA SCHEIN

Adam Sillins described his vision as a box of crayons. He said while other people can differentiate a much larger box of crayons, he is limited to color vision of about 12 colors.

He was 7 years old when he found out he was color blind through taking the Ishihara test for color blindness. However, he said his color blindness is no surprise because of his family’s bad history with vision.

The University of Florida student is among many that are color blind. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), 8 percent of men and .5 percent of women have a form of color blindness.

Color blindness occurs because of a mutation on the X chromosome that is passed down from females. The gene is passed from mother to child. A mother that is a carrier passes the gene to 50 percent of her children.

94 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Color blindness can come in many forms, but the most common form of color blindness is the red-green form. A person can also be fully color blind or have blue-yellow color blindness, a more atypical form of color blindness, according to the institute.

While there is no cure, there are some newer solutions to color blindness. EnChroma glasses are glasses intended for people who are red-green color blind. The technology “removes small slices of light where the red and green cones overlap the most,” according to an EnChroma press release.

Kent Streeb, the director of marketing at EnChroma, said the glasses work for four out of five candidates.

“Our glasses selectively remove certain wavelengths of light

N O O P W E N

of High Springs OFFERING COMPLETE LAUNDRY SERVICE!

WASH DRY FOLD DRY CLEANING CLOTHING ALTERATIONS SHOE REPAIR & POLISHING FIRE RESTORATION Mon-Fri 7am - 7pm Sat 9am - 1pm Closed on Sundays

Portable Buildings Carports Gazebos Steel Buildings Kids’ Playhouses Dog Kennels & more!

We offer the best outdoor portable buildings and steel buildings in the industry. If you’re looking to store your extra stuff or just create your own man cave (or “she shed”), stop by and browse our diversified inventory in High Springs, Florida.

Look no further!

No Credit Check Financing Available Free Delivery & Set Up

23352 NW US Hwy 27

386-454-0777 DRESS SHIRT SPECIAL

$ .99

1

each

Must present coupon at time of drop off. Expires 6/30/18.

Call now for a Free Estimate 5 Star Portable Buildings, LLC

(386) 454-3280 17858 NW US HWY 441 • High Springs

www.5starportablebuildings.com

DRESS PANTS SPECIAL

$

4

.99 each

Must present coupon at time of drop off. Expires 6/30/18.

WASH, DRY & FOLD

¢

75

per lb.

Minimum ten (10) pounds of laundry. Expires 6/30/18.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 95

95

96

HUMAN CONDITION >> COLOR BLINDNESS

“A lot of people just don’t realize how common it is. It is one in 12 men and one in 200 women,” Kent Streeb, director of marketing for EnChroma, said.

He explained that most people do not realize that women can also be color blind, although it is less common.

“All greens became much more vivid, and the sky became much more blue. It wasn’t really as emotional like those videos, but it was definitely cool.”

Not everyone is a good candidate, the doctor explained. The using optical filters and helps to remove some of the wavelengths of light where the color blind have the most overlap between the best candidates are those with color sensitive cells but with all the right cells to see color. red and green cones in their eye,” Streeb said in a recent phone Sillins, who has the red-green form and also struggles with interview. purple and blue is perceptive to these glasses, This technology is shown on the EnChroma saying he begged his mother for the technology website and there are videos of people experienchis freshman year of college. ing certain colors for the first time immediately.

“It wasn’t the emotional experience that Streeb said the more typical experience takes other people had, but I remember putting them between five to 15 minutes for the full effects on. My mom has this garden in the yard and the to kick in. color pink for the first time looked completely “We like people to know that it’s not a cure different,” he said. “All greens became much or a fix for colorblindness, just like putting on more vivid, and the sky became much more glasses, if you’re nearsighted you’re not fixing blue. It wasn’t really as emotional like those your nearsightedness, you’re just temporarily videos, but it was definitely cool.” helping it with those glasses,” Streeb said.

Although he does not use the glasses freThe glasses are sold on the EnChroma webquently, he tries to combat his color blindness site, but there are retail locations around the by wearing clothing that has easily identifiable country. Dr. Nathan Bonilla-Warford is one of Adam Sillins, a finance major at the University of Florida, colors. two locations in Florida and recently began said he has known he was “When I was growing up, I remember my prescribing patients EnChroma glasses through color blind since a young age. mom used to dress me up in pink a lot because his Tampa practices, Bright Eyes Family Vision He said he struggles most she thought it looked good on me,” Sillins said.

Care and Bright Eyes Kids. differentiating between blue “But as a young kid I didn’t want to dress in pink, He said many people have come to test out and purple. so she told me it was light blue. I believed her.” the technology.

He said he still mismatches sometimes, and that his friends “We have had several people try them in the office who are will never let him live down some outfits. good candidates and they have not had the sort of extreme “I have this green Patagonia jacket, which is like a moss, but reactions that people demonstrated in the YouTube videos, I thought it was black for about two years,” he said. “My friends but they have definitely had a positive reaction, sort of an aha moment where they realize that their perception of the colors still like to make fun of me for it.” s around them hasn’t been accurate,” he said.

For more info, visit the National Eye Institute’s website: nei.nih.gov.

96 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

LARGER LOCATION NOW OPEN! — — T TH HE E — —

and an d wh when en iitt doe d do does, oes, byy yyou’re ou’rre protected protected b

Amish Store

TM

of of newberry newberry

Big selection of all your Amish favorites!

APPLE BUTTER, JAMS & JELLIES CHEESE & SAUSAGE VARIETIES PICKLED VEGETABLES PIE FILLINGS FRESH EGGS • QUAIL EGGS LOCAL HONEY VARIETIES

Open Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

25310 W. Newberry Road Downtown Newberry • 352-354-8038

for everyday spi lls & odors INCLU LifeGuard’s ™ patented DING WATERPROOF BACKING PETS! system REDUCES ODORS and stains, allowing easy more effective cleanup.

The Floor Store of Newberry …and so much more!

NEWBERRY 840 NW SR 45, NEWBERRY 1 mile north of Newberry RD on HWY 27/41

352-472-1331 Unparalleled legal representation with a hometown feel.

L aw Offi c e o f

Maurice T. McDaniel

PAMPER YOUR R PE P PET ET E T HOR C A R SE E ALSO !

• Criminal Law • Family Law • Wills, Trusts & Estates Serving clients in Serving Servin Alachua, Alachu Ala chua, Gilchrist, Columbia Columb Col m ia and surrounding surrou sur r nding counties c cou nties

Serving: Alachua, Newberry & High Springs

Owner: Cyndy Shires

Cell: 352-870-5627 Home: 386-462-2262

352-559-0930

Personal pet sitter and pet care in your home while you’re away.

18581 High Springs Main St., Suite 20 • High Springs

www.McDanielLawOffice.com

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 97

97

98

COLUMN

DONNA BONNELL’S

Embracing Life PASSIONATE ABOUT PURPLE

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

R

egina Brett, author, inspirational speaker and newspaper columnist, could have created the following quote for me. She said, “Be eccentric now.

Don’t wait for old age to wear purple.”

Perhaps I was born eccentric, as purple has always been my favorite color! In high school my bedroom was painted a dark shade of purple. Today, my home is accessorized with candles, curtains, pictures and pillows varying from light lilac to prominent plum.

Sometimes I wonder if my soul is saturated in indigo. When praying or meditating, I am blessed with beautiful visions of violet. In fact, I have been told my aura displays purplish shadows.

Is being passionate about purple good? Purple is peaceful, playful and powerful. Research defines the origins of this color more significant than any other. Its evolution is noteworthy.

Our prehistoric ancestors probably never had the pleasure of seeing purple, as it was very scarce in nature.

As civilization progressed, precious purple pigments were discovered. Dyes for clothing were also developed. Unfortunately, due to it’s rarity, only nobility could afford to wear garments tinted with natural resources. It is estimated that 12,000 shellfish were needed to extract enough pure dye for one Roman toga. Of course things have changed over time, and all tints are easy to mass produce now.

Even more astounding is what scientists have since learned.

Purple has potent electromagnetic energy, almost equal to gamma and x-rays. Hypothetically it is the most powerful color in the rainbow. Yet, ironically, experts argue whether or not purple is real.

Can purple be fake? Maybe? Some scientists say that all colors are just as real as any other, except purple. How our brains and eyes perceive this color is certainly a confusing concept.

Light is energy that moves much faster than sound waves.

Light waves (both visible and invisible) have different lengths.

The shorter waves, such as x-rays, have an enormous amount of energy. At the other end of the scale, the longer ones are found (including radio and television waves). In the middle are the light waves visible to humans. The visible light spectrum contains even more wavelengths. Our eyes distinguish different colors based on their length – red the longest and some say violet (and purple) are the shortest.

Therein begins the controversy. Powerful ultraviolet light

98 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

cannot be seen but causes some materials to glow with a purple hue. The term most likely came from the violet light emitted by those objects. Thus, purple (or violet) is not a pure color. Even in a rainbow, it is a mixture of reds and blues. Perhaps this is why purple symbolizes mystery and magic.

Furthermore, purple denotes more meanings than any other color. Cultures and countries across the globe have different connotations. It seems that people either despise or worship this color. In America, the purple heart is an award for bravery.

On the other hand, it signifies death in other nations.

It is even different between generations. While some adults over-analyze purple, children simply see it as fun. Barney is a happy television character, the Flyin’ Purple Eater is a friendly one-eyed, one-horned, pigeon-toed crazy ditty and the purple cow is a remarkable mythical beast.

Perhaps I am an example of the purple cow that author Gelett Burgess wrote about in his nonsense verse, “I never saw a purple cow; I never hope to see one; but I can tell you, anyhow, I’d rather see than be one.”

Since purple cows do not exist, Burgess could be using that as a metaphor to describe someone or something out of the ordinary.

Another one of my heroes, Jenny Joseph, composed the poem, “Warning,” when she was only 29 years old. Excerpts include: When I am an old woman I shall wear purple With a red hat that doesn’t go and doesn’t suit me.

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised When suddenly I am old and start to wear purple.

Joseph’s poem inspired Sue Ellen Cooper to start The Red Hat Society Club. Red Hatters (50+) wear purple attire and red hats. Purple, the fun color of youth, provides an acceptable avenue for ladies to play.

Call me eccentric or a purple cow, I am proud to be passionate about purple. It represents my primary reasons for writing this column. I enjoy discussing unusual topics. My goal is to inspire readers to analyze the mysterious or spiritual events in their lives, while embracing peaceful adventures with a young spirit. s

We roast our coffee here.

No extra charge for the aroma.

Millhopper Shopping Center 4113 NW 16th Blvd.

(352) 384-9110

Like us on Facebook www.bagelbakerygainesville.com

Work

Lift TIRES major Exhaust Custom kits +Rims +Minor System Work

386-454-4300 530 N N. M Main S St. H Highspring h FL 32643 6

OPEN M-F 8AM-6PM • ERNIES4X4@WINDSTREAM.NET

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 99

99

100

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.

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.

•

•

•

100 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

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”

FEBRUARY WINNER

MARCH WINNER

Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue

Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation

The $1,000 charity winner for the month of February is Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue, a local grassroots nonprofit made to rehabilitate and re-home equine in need. The organization also strives to educate their community about the needs of equine especially after being abused or neglected. The organization believes that education and awareness are paramount in helping horses and other species of equine. Jeanne at BHFER will receive $300 for nominating the winning charity.

The random charity of the month for February goes to the Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation who will be receiving a $500 prize. Jane Whritenour will receive $100 for being selected as the random voter.

The March Charity of the Month $1,000 winner is Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, a nonprofit conservation and educational facility serving the needs of exotic animals in need of rescuing or rehabilitating. The organization offers a wide variety of educational opportunities for school groups, veterinary students, continuing education and more. Administrators do not receive salaries and all proceeds go directly to helping the wildlife in their facilities. Barry Janks will receive $300 for nominating this organization. The random charity of the month for March is The Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida and this organization will receive a $500 prize. Amy Cilnf will receive $100 for being selected as the random voter.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS >> CHARITY OF THE MONTH

CH A RIT Y OF THE MONTH WINNER S

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

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN N MAGAZINE

| 101

101

102

TASTE OF THE TOWN

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

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.

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.

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

352-333-0291 Tioga 352-363-6061 Pk Ln DavesNYDeli.com North East Flavors — Dave’s NY Deli has been delivering the flavors of New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia to the Gainesville area since 2009. Owner Dave Anders says “We are very excited about the addition of our new location in Park Lane Plaza near Haile Plantation. Now it’s even easier for you to enjoy our authentic Philly Cheesesteaks, NY Style Pastrami and Corned Beef, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Paninis, Wraps, Cubans, Hot & Cold Subs, Kids Menu and much more.” Come see us soon for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner at either of our two locations.

Open 7 Days a week.

102 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

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 — Mi Apá proudly serves the area’s most delicious Cuban cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic recipes, such as Arroz con Pollo, Ropa Vieja, Cuban sandwiches, and the local favorite, Cafe con Leche, we bring the tastes of Cuba to Gainesville and Alachua. Whether you’re dining in on our sunny patio or picking up your online order, your food will be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And our Gainesville location even has a drive-thru! As the weather warms up, stay cool with our half-off Iced Coffee Happy Hour every day from 2:00-5:00pm. And don’t forget that kids now eat free every Wednesday from 4:00-9:00pm!

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!

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.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 103

103

104

TASTE OF THE TOWN

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

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!

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!

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.

104 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

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.

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.

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!

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 105

105

106

TASTE OF THE TOWN

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

The Social at Midtown 1728 W. University Avenue, Gainesville, FL Monday-Sunday 11:00am – 2:00am

352-373-7383 www.thesocialgnv.com Upscale restaurant and rooftop bar — Hidden among the college bars of the midtown area, The Social at Midtown provides an unique, upscale, and affordable dining and late-night experience for the diverse and ever evolving population of Gainesville. Whether you are in search of high end spirits and craft cocktails or one of the 37 beers on tap the Social at Midtown will undoubtedly bring you back for the next big game with its fantastic menu and over 60 Large LED TVs. Check out our web page to see our weekly specials and plan your next Happy Hour with $4 Local Craft Pints!

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.

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.

106 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Get mom the car she’s always wanted.

BETWEEN MAY 4-14, SUNSTATE IS OFFERING QUALIFIED CUSTOMERS A

SPECIAL LOW RATE OF 1.99%

*

and NO PAYMENTS FOR 90 DAYS!** Exclusive clusive E Event! ven Visit our Archer Road Branch on May 11th & 12th for exclusive deals on a variety of vehicles from Select Motor Cars.

Proudly serving our members and our community since 1957

352-381-5200 www.SunStateFCU.org *Special Annual Percentage Rate applies to any car or truck bought from any dealer, private party or external refinance May 4-14, 2018 only, and financed with SunStateFCU. The actual rate you pay is based on your credit worthiness, term of loan and collateral qualification at the time of your advance and is disclosed to you at that time. **No payment for 90-days. Interest will accrue. MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 107

107

108

COMMU NIT Y C A LENDA R

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 8

Amanda Anne Platt & The Honeycutters

Friday, May 11 at 8pm Live at the Heartwood Sound Stage with local folk quintet Wax Wings.

THE CHRISTIANS Through May 13 Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place

GAINESVILLE - This off-Broadway hit and New York Times Critics’ Pick now comes to Gainesville. One of the most talked about plays in regional theatre, The Christians takes you on a wild ride, as it explores the power of faith in our country. thehipp.org

STEAM WARS Friday, May 4 from 4 – 8pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

GAINESVILLE - The Florida Museum invites Star Wars fans for a fun event mixing cosplay and science on International Star Wars Day! STEAM Wars is a Star Wars-inspired event featuring STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) disciplines on “May the Fourth.” floridamuseum.ufl.edu 352-273-2055.

4TH ANNUAL GARDEN SHOW & SPRING FESTIVAL May 5 & 6 at 9:30am Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens 4990 NE 180th Avenue

WILLISTON - Enjoy live music throughout the day, and visit vendors from all over Florida selling plants, arts and crafts, food and more! This unique treasure features over 50 separate garden displays nestled in and around a century old lime rock quarry. cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com

ASK A SCIENTIST: SALAMANDERS Sunday, May 6 from 1 – 4pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

Keeney’s novel, “The Tiger Whisperer,” about a tiger owner’s frantic search for his escaped pet, won Novel of the Year from the Cat Owners Association. writersalliance.org

MARION CIVIC CHORALE Sunday, May 6 at 3pm First Presbyterian Church

OCALA - Performing music by American Composers Samuel Barber, Aaron Copland and Eric Whitacre among others. All Concerts are free to the public. We welcome new members!

President@marionchorale.org

WRITERS ALLIANCE Sunday, May 6 from 2:30 - 4pm Millhopper Branch Library, 3145 NW 43rd St

GAINESVILLE - Visitors can find answers during an afternoon of discovery and learning. Participants may talk one-on-one with salamander researchers and ask questions about these fascinating amphibians. floridamuseum.ufl.edu 352-273-2062.

GAINESVILLE - Meetings feature a speaker or a panel discussion on a subject of interest to story-tellers and poets. Free and open to the public. writersalliance.org

Saturday, May 5th from 9am - 1pm 1350 NW 75th Street

SECRETS OF SHORT STORY WRITING

AMANDA ANNE PLATT & THE HONEYCUTTERS

GAINESVILLE - Tour a select few of Gainesville’s most beautiful private gardens at your leisure.

Each chosen for its creativity, stunning garden features and interesting horticulture specimens.

Maps will be provided. ggcfl.org

Sunday, May 6 from 2:30pm - 4:00pm Millhopper Branch Library, 3145 NW 43rd St

Friday, May 11 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S Main St

GAINESVILLE - Belea T. Keeney, award-winning writer, editor, and wordsmith, will share her secrets of short story-writing and sign books.

GAINESVILLE - There is an empathetic and charming wit engrained in Amanda’s songwriting.

The songs blend the band’s old-school country

GARDEN TOUR

108 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

roots attitude with their shared influences of rock and folk. The successes of their last two albums have propelled them onto the national scene and they have been featured on NPR’s World Cafe’s Sense of Place, NPR’s Mountain Stage, Nashville’s Music City Roots and Folk Alley. Local folk quintet Wax Wings will open the show. heartwoodsoundstage.com

GIRL SCOUTS EXPLORE: CITIZEN SCIENCE Friday, May 11 from 6 – 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

GAINESVILLE - Brownies and Junior Girl Scouts will earn a special patch created for this event allowing Scouts to explore museum collections and discover the information they hold about life on earth. floridamuseum.ufl.edu 352-273-2062.

SALLY B’S DASHING REVUE Saturday, May 12 from 9pm – 12am High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave

GAINESVILLE - Jazz up your spring with the class & sass of Sally B’s Dashing Revue! This one-of-a-kind show features dazzling burlesque performances by local and touring artists with live music by local jazz sensation Swing Theory.

You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, you’ll scream wildly… guaranteed! Featuring Performances by: Sofia Luna, Sally Sucre, Phoenix Midnight, Michelle Rose, Nicki Mirage, Sally B. Dash. With your host Rio Dios Mio, Featuring vocalist Becky Sinn and live music by Swing Theory! Fancy dress encouraged. sallybdash.com

AUTHOR SERIES: K.E. MULLINS Saturday, May 12 from 2:30 – 3:30pm Headquarters Library, 401 E University Ave

GAINESVILLE - K.E. Mullins will talk about writing her novel, “In the Company of Strangers”, about Detective Anita Johnson, her partner, and her boss chasing the female mastermind of a criminal operation and her ruthless team in a wild ride through scenarios avoiding the DEA, FBI, and local police. Mullins, a veteran of 20 years in the Navy with an MBA, currently instructor in the Navy Junior ROTC and president of the Writers Alliance of Gainesville, has published a book of poetry and two novels. She will answer questions and sign books after her talk. aclib.us/author-series

FARM TO TABLE DINNER Saturday, May 12 from 5 – 10pm Swallowtail Farm, 17603 NW 276 Ln

ALACHUA - Featuring Jon Pilgrim from Mayflower Cellars. The Farm to Table Dinner Series at Swallowtail Farm puts a spotlight

Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats Saturday, May 19 – Sunday, Sept. 16 Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road GAINESVILLE - The Florida Museum of Natural History opens its newest featured exhibit with special activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can match bats with the foods they consume, learn about echolocation, visit a simulated bat nursery and discover the areas bats live worldwide. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

on local food culture by featuring farm-fresh ingredients prepared by talented chefs. Each dinner is a unique one-night only four-course experience paired with wines or local craft beer. www.swallowtailcsa.com

WINDSOR ZUCCHINI FESTIVAL Saturday, May 12 from 9:00am – 4:00pm Windsor Volunteer Fire Department Grounds, 1401 SE County Rd. 234

GAINESVILLE - Over 100 arts and crafts vendors from all around the state, Old Tyme Auction and a bake sale with zucchini bread and fried zucchini, zucchini cornbread and zucchini ice cream. Free to the public. 352-372-4875 or www.windsor-z-news.org

for the nonprofit 10 CAN, Inc. 10 CAN provides therapeutic retreats for Law Enforcement, FireRescue, and EMS to promote health and morale for our community heroes. bit.ly/bluewild

MOTHER’S DAY AT THE MUSEUM Sunday, May 13 from 1 – 4:30pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

GAINESVILLE - Bring mom to the Florida Museum on Mother’s Day Sunday! Buy one admission to the “Butterfly Rainforest” exhibit at full-price and get a second ticket for half-price. Not valid with other offers or discounts. floridamuseum.ufl.edu or 352-846-2000.

GATOR BASEBALL SENIOR DAY

BLUE WILDERNESS HERO RUN

Sunday, May 13 from 1 – 6pm Alfred A. McKethan Stadium, 2190 Stadium Rd

Saturday, May 12 from 9am – 1pm Grow Hub, 2900 NE 8th Ave

GAINESVILLE - Come out to support your Gators as they take on Georgia! Be sure to arrive early to recognize seniors JJ Schwarz and Nick Horvath in a special pre-game ceremony for their contributions to the program. floridagators.com/baseball

GAINESVILLE - Come show your support for our community warriors! Enjoy a cross-country run through North Florida wilderness while supporting an amazing cause. This is a fundraiser event

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 109

109

110

GAINESVILLE CHINESE SCHOOL PRESENTS FORMOSA CIRCUS ART Monday, May 14 at 7pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd

GAINESVILLE - Formosa Circus Art (FOCA) is named after this beautiful island, Taiwan. Its purpose is to develop the various contemporary circus arts of Taiwan, mixing them with other styles of performance including traditional forms, acrobatics, street culture and theatre arts; trying to create a physical vocabulary that is unique in Taiwan. FOCA’s team members come from many different fields of performance, including among others acrobatics, juggling, dance and drama. The event is FREE and open to the public. performingarts.ufl.edu

GUIDED BY VOICES Tuesday, May 15 at 7pm The Wooly, 20 N Main Street

GAINESVILLE - GBV’s new line-up re-unites Robert Pollard with former bandmembers Doug Gillard and Kevin March, along with exciting newcomers Mark Shue and Bobby Bare Jr. The group has been wowing audiences from coast to coast following fantastic new albums How Do You Spell Heaven and August By Cake (Robert Pollard’s 100th release!) thewoolygainesville.com

PROMISE WALK FOR PREECLAMPSIA Saturday, May 19 from 9:45 - 11am

DEPOT PARK, 200 SE DEPOT AVE GAINESVILLE This is a family-friendly, untimed walk. The path is paved and stroller-friendly! Strollers, scooters, wheelchairs, rollerblades, and other modes of locomotion are all welcome. There will be a walking loop (approximately 1/2 mile). There is a play area for kids in the park and, weather permitting, the splash pad will be open. Lots of activities, a silent auction and fun for the whole family. promisewalk.org

NEWBERRY WATERMELON FESTIVAL Saturday, May 19 from 9am – 4:30pm Easton Sports Complex, 24820 NW 16th Ave

NEWBERRY - E a c h y e a r t h e N e w b e r r y Watermelon Festival committee works hard to improve the festival and its activities. The watermelons are always provided from a local grower and given to the festival goers for FREE. Beauty pageants for ages 0-22 years. Enjoy contests for watermelon eating, seed spitting, hog calling, pie/cake baking, and of course the “Big Melon.” newberrywatermelonfestival.com

110 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

JUNIOR LEAGUE WHALE OF A SALE Saturday, May 19 from 8am – 3pm 430 North Main St

GAINESVILLE - Join the Junior League of Gainesville for their first Whale of a Sale. Shop from a large assortment of women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, priced to sell! Housewares and shoes will also be available. There is something for everyone. Arrive early to be sure you can get the best selection of items! gainesvillejrleague.org

OPEN HOUSE AT LUBEE BAT CONSERVANCY Saturday, May 19 from 11am – 3pm Lubee Bat Conservancy, 1309 NW 192nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Guests will have a chance to listen to educational talks, check out native bat houses and talk to experts on installation and exclusion, and of course, view beautiful bats playing with numerous toys. Mark your calendars! More information to come. lubee.org

GAINESVILLE POPS: ARMED FORCES SALUTE Saturday, May 19 from 3pm – 5pm First United Methodist Church, 419 NE 1st St

GAINESVILLE - The Gainesville Pops! is a local performing wind ensemble comprised of professional musicians, music educators and serious hobbyists formed in 2008. All concerts are presented free of charge. gainesvillepops.com

BRONSON BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL & 5K Saturday, May 19 from 7:30am – 2pm James H. Cobb Park

BRONSON - Family fun, music, crafts, vendors, a parade, tractor shows and food! Blueberry BakeOff. A 5k will kick off the day, the 3.2mile course will go through Bronson, with the start and end back at the park. The 5K starts at 7:30am and the Festival will begin at 9:00am. facebook.com/ bronsonblueberry

and twenty four will travel to Jamaica for the 8th annual service trip. Abroad, they will provide extractions, fluoride, and restorative treatments for those in desperate need. squ.re/dental5k

MASTER GARDENER PLANT SALE & AG FEST Saturday, May 19 from 8am – Noon UF/IFAS Extension, 2800 NE 39th Ave

GAINESVILLE - Choose from thousands of plant varieties grown by Master Gardeners being sold at unbeatable prices. Rain barrels and composters also for sale. The Ag Fest will have booths for beekeeping, Florida Department of Agriculture, Food Safety, Plant Disease, 4-H Program, Food & Nutrition Programming and more. Drawings will be conducted throughout the morning. 352-955-2402 alachua.ifas.ufl.edu

WOMEN IN BLUES SHOWCASE Sunday, May 20 from 3 – 9pm Cypress & Grove, 1001 NW 4th St

GAINESVILLE - The Women in Blues Showcase’s purpose is celebrating the Blues and the important role of female performers have played, do play, and will play in keeping the music vibrant. The performers this year include International Blues Challenge participants (including Finalists and Semifinalists) and some that have participated in WIB showcases all over the country. ncfblues.org

AUTHOR SERIES: DAVIS BUNN Sunday, May 20 from 2:30 – 3:30pm Headquarters Library, 401 E University Ave

GAINESVILLE - Meet international bestseller and winner of four Christy awards, Davis Bunn as he presents a double feature of his two novels “Miramar Bay” and “Firefly Cove”. Although born and raised in North carolina, Bunn is currently a writer in residence at Oxford in England. aclib.us/author-series

SCIART MEETUP: PLANTS RUNNING FOR A MISSION 5K Saturday, May 19 at 7:30am World of Beer, 3265 SW 34th St.

GAINESVILLE - Proceeds benefit the UF College of Dentistry mission trips to the Dominican Republic, Guatemala and Jamaica. Each year students and faculty provide critical oral healthcare in underserved countries, whose populations otherwise would not receive necessary dental care. This summer, thirty dental students and faculty will travel to the Dominican Republic for the 31st annual service trip, thirty four will travel to Guatemala for the 13th annual service trip,

Sunday, May 20 from 9am – noon Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

GAINESVILLE - Artists and designers are invited to visit the Florida Museum after hours for SciArt Meetups to explore exhibits and create art inspired by Florida nature and culture! With partner Santa Fe College Art Gallery, join the museum for a brief art or science presentation on insects. Pre-registration is requested as space is limited. Access includes a working studio space and after-hours entry to all permanent exhibits. Artists must bring their own supplies. floridamuseum.ufl.edu 352-273-2062.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 111

111

112

severe attack of Farce. Gathering for their tenth wedding anniversary, the host lies bleeding in the other room and his wife is nowhere in sight. His lawyer, Ken and wife Chris must get “the story” straight before the other guests arrive. Written

by Neil Simon. Directed by Suzanne Richardson.

Shows are 8pm Fridays & Saturdays and 2pm Sundays. highspringsplayhouse.com

THE BIKINIS: OPENING NIGHT! Friday, June 1 from 8 – 10pm Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Pl

Yoga & Jazz 5K Saturday, June 9 at 7am Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave. GAINESVILLE - You don’t want to miss this historical event for the entire family. Basketball legend and NBA all-time leading scorer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will greet yogis, runners and walkers during the Sunrise Yoga class as the sound of live jazz fills Depot Park. Create teams and register early! bit.ly/yogajazz5k

BUCKETHEAD Wednesday, May 23 at 8pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Buckethead is virtuoso guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist who encompasses several genres of music. He has released 256 studio albums and performed on over 50 more albums by other artists. His music spans such diverse areas as progressive metal, rock, funk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, and avant-garde music. highdivegainesville.com

BATS AND BREW Thursday, May 24 from 7 – 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

GAINESVILLE - An evening of bat-inspired drinks and snacks education about the only true flying mammal as part of the museum’s new exhibit. Participants must be 21 years or older.

Pre-registration is required and closes May 21. floridamuseum.ufl.edu 352-273-2064.

Monday, May 28 – Monday, September 3

BLUE STAR MUSEUMS

CHIEFLAND WATERMELON FESTIVAL

Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Road

Saturday, June 2 from 8am – 1pm

GAINESVILLE - The Florida Museum of Natural History is offering free admission to all fee-based exhibits for active duty U.S. military personnel and their families, beginning Monday, May 28, on Memorial Day through Monday, Sept. 3, on Labor Day, as part of the Blue Star Museums program.

Free admission is available to any active duty Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard personnel, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. floridamuseum.ufl.edu 352-846-2000.

23 SE 2nd Ave

ANNUAL COMMUNITY MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

June 1 – 24

Monday, May 28 from 11am – 12 noon

High Springs Playhouse

Forest Meadows East, Hawthorne Rd

HIGH SPRINGS - The Deputy Mayor of New York has just shot himself. Though only a flesh wound, four couples are about to experience a

GAINESVILLE - Join your community in remembering all who have served our country. Event 112 |

will feature music, patriotic displays, a flyover, wreath laying and free BBQ. Open to the public. forestmeadowsfh.com/events

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

GAINESVILLE - The Hippodrome Theatre is renowned for it’s fun-loving summer musicals, and this year they have done it again!

“The Bikinis” will have audiences reveling in rock’n’roll smash hits from the 60s and 70s, as the knock-out group “The Bikinis” keeps the beat going with a night of nostalgia you won’t find anywhere else. With hair as big as their voices, these empowered yet inseparable friends bring their sass, charm and talent to save the Sandy Shores Mobile Home Beach Resort from big-buck investors on the famed Jersey Shore boardwalk. Based on a true story, “The Bikinis” is the ultimate story of the underdog determined to take on the greedy, out-of-town, condo-building developers who would tear down their homes. thehipp.org

RUMORS

CHIEFLAND - Enjoy a wonderful day of family, fun and fanfare. Plenty of vendors offering crafts, food and information. There will be a parade featuring businesses, organizations and even Watermelon Pageant winners from the local tri-county community of Levy, Gilchrist and Dixie counties. chieflandwomansclub.org

FLORIDA TRACK CLUB TWILIGHT MEET Tuesday, June 6 from 7pm – 9pm University of Florida Track, 325 Woodlawn Dr

GAINESVILLE - Join the Florida Track Club for their all-comers summer track meet. Events will be 1 mile, 3k, and 800m. Coed races. Selfseeding. All ages and abilities welcome! Kids fun run (free). Professional timing. Face painting, appearances by Albert & Alberta, popsicles, yoga, and bouncy house! bit.ly/FTCtwilight PHOTOGRAPHY: JOHN NIENHUIS

POFAHL STUDIOS, RESIDENT SCHOOL FOR DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET —

P R E S E N T S

—

A Summer of Dance!

352-371-2986 pofahldancestudios.com

BALLET INTENSIVE: JUNE 4-7 Taught by DANB Artistic Staff

SUMMER WORKSHOP: JUNE 11 - JULY 21 Age 3 - 83! All levels. Pofahl and DANB staff

SUMMER INTENSIVE: JULY 23-AUGUST 4

PHOTOGRAPHY AP PH BY: ANI COLL LLIER LL IER

FEATURING GUEST FACULTY INSTRUCTORS: BRIAN CHUNG: LINES BALLET, Complexions contemporary Ballet, Joffrey Ballet ANTON KANDAUROV: Kiev State College, Principal Connecticut Ballet OKSANA MASLOVA: Kiev State College, Principal Connecticut Ballet OMONIYI OBIOHA: Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Vibrations Dance Company KIMMY KECK: ProDanza Italiana, Atlanta Dance Theatre JULIA PONOMAREVA: DANB Principal, Nureyev Academy, Croation National Ballet

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 113

113

114

RECURRING EVENTS BACK TO WORK 50+ May 7-9, June 29 and July 2-3 Various locations, check website for details

GAINESVILLE - Designed for the 50+ jobseeker, this free workshop introduces the 7 Smart Strategies needed to secure employment.

Learn about a resume that will pass the applicant tracking system, how to answer tough interview questions, networking, and more. sfcollege.edu/ wesi/ or 352-395-5184

CONTRA DANCE

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson Thursday, June 21 at 9:45am GAINESVILLE - The nation’s top water safety and training organizations are joining forces to present the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL) in order to build awareness about the vital importance of teaching children to swim to help prevent drowning. On June 21st, waterparks, pools and other aquatic facilities around the globe will host local WLSL lessons to make noise that Swimming Lessons Save Lives. The four local pools hosting the event will be: Dwight H. Hunter Pool, Andrew Mickle Pool, H. Spurgeon Cherry Pool (Westside pool) and Sun Country Sports Center (Jonesville). wlsl.org

SAUCE BOSS AND BIG TIME JUKE & THE JOINTS

2018 JULY 4TH CELEBRATION

Sunday, June 10 from 7 – 11pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave

Wednesday, July 4 from 3 – 10pm Hal Brady Rec. Complex, 14300 NW 146 Ter

GAINESVILLE - The legendary performer (as chronicled in Jimmy Buffett’s 1999 hit “I Will Play for Gumbo”) Bill “Sauce Boss” Wharton brings his Florida slide guitar Blues, his gumbo, and his own hot sauce to every multi-sensory performance.

His show includes a culinary demonstration with audience stirring and sampling the gumbo. The Sauce Boss show is a soul shouting picnic of bluesy, rock and roll brotherhood. ncfblues.org

VALUE FOR WRITERS OF AUDIO BOOKS

ALACHUA - The City of Alachua has dubbed its celebration “The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America.” Enjoy dozens of activities for the kids, including bounce houses, rock wall climbing, bungee jumps and water slides. This year kids can also take advantage of the spray park and skateboard park located on site. There will also be unique vendors, bingo contests, dancing groups as well as live musical entertainment.

Fireworks display scheduled to begin at 9:30pm cityofalachua.com

Sunday, June 10 from 2:30pm – 4:00pm Millhopper Branch Library, 3145 NW 43rd St

MELON RUN

GAINESVILLE - Tina Dietz, business coach and expert in audio book branding and content marketing, will discuss the value for writers of audio books. She created StartSomething Creative Business Solutions to ignite thriving businesses and provide them outstanding small business resources, tools, and coaching. writersalliance.org

114 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Wednesday, July 4 Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th St.

GAINESVILLE - A July 4th tradition, Florida Track Club hosts the almost “World Famous” 40th Annual Melon Run! Enjoy the rolling hills on the course and then enjoy free watermelon and refreshments after the race. floridatrackclub.org

First Sundays & Third Saturdays Thelma A. Boltin Center, 516 NE 2nd Ave

GAINESVILLE - Contra dancing is energetic, social dancing that’s fun for everyone (all ages are welcome) and no partner is necessary. The music is live. Dances are taught, walked through, and called.

No experience or special dress is required. Wear casual attire and comfortable shoes. godsdance.org

PUBLIC SYMPOSIUM & WORKSHOP First Mondays from 6:30 – 7:30pm Aurora Downtown, 109 SE 4th Ave

GAINESVILLE - Join your 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 our music community. gainesvillemusicassociation.com

ADULT COLORING PROGRAM Third Mondays from 1pm – 3pm Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE - Get together for a fun hour of coloring! Coloring lifts your spirits, enhances creativity and brings out the child in you. No artistic expertise is required, and supplies will be provided, though you are welcome to bring your own. For more information, contact Linda Dean: ldean@aclib.us

TIOGA MONDAY FARMERS MARKET Mondays from 4pm – 7pm Tioga Town Center (under the trees)

GAINESVILLE - At this market you will find a variety of produce (Fruits & Vegetables) from several local organic, hydroponic and conventional farms. Fruits and vegetables offered are seasonal and change throughout the year. Also available are artisan food vendors; jams & jellies, baked goods, confections and more. facebook. com/TiogaMondayMarket

It’s time to reduce those interest rates TRANSFER YOUR BALANCE TO A LOW INTEREST VISA® CREDIT CARD AT SUNSTATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION.

When those credit card bills start rolling in, check your interest rate.

Chances are you could be saving money each month with a VISA® credit card at SunState. Log on, call or visit us today to speak with a credit expert.

Proudly serving our members and our community since 1957

352-381-5200 www.SunStateFCU.org

VISA VIS A® is a regi regi egiste sttered tr stered trade ade adema demarrk of of VISA SA A In nter t nat a ion ional. al al.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 115

115

116

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCE

UNION ST. FARMERS MARKET

Mondays 6:45 – 9:30pm 1624 NW 5th Avenue

Wednesdays from 4pm – 7pm Bo Diddley Plaza

GAINESVILLE - This is the kind of dancing which began in the 16th century and is still being written and danced today around the world. All dances are taught, walked through and called. No partner, experience, or special dress required. If you are new please come to the beginner lesson each evening at 6:45. Dance to jigs, reels, and beautiful waltz music by Hoggetowne Fancy.

Everyone is welcome. This is easier than ballroom because there are no partner holds and the caller does the leading. Visit our Facebook page to see videos. bit.ly/EnglishCountry

GAINESVILLE - Bring a bag and pick up some locally-grown and produced vegetables, meat and dairy to take home for your kitchen. Browse local vendors offering a variety of hand-crafted items from jewelry to kombucha. There’s also food trucks and live entertainment — all in a family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy downtown and support local producers, musicians and artisans while sharing some quality time with your neighbors. unionstreetfarmersmkt.com

HEALTH AGING SERIES 2018 Second Tuesdays from 3:30 - 4:30pm The Village at Gainesville (Tower Club Ballroom)

GAINESVILLE - Weekly presentations by respected doctors and healthcare professionals on a variety of topics like Cardiology, Vision, Alzheimer’s and more. Offered by North Florida Regional Medical Center. Details at www.thevillageonline.com/events/

FUN WITH FLOWERS Third Tuesdays from 9:30am - noon Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St

GAINESVILLE - Hands-on floral design program includes lecture, demonstration and materials.

Coffee social at 9:30 am. RSVP requested rsvp. ggcfl@gmail.com or www.ggcfl.org

GOOD MORNING GAINESVILLE

HIGH SPRINGS FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT First Fridays from 5pm - 8pm Downtown

HIGH SPRINGS - Join the fun in lovely downtown High Springs. Local merchants will offer special sales, a raffle and more. Family fun for all ages. facebook.com/HighSpringsDowntownMerchants

ARTWALK GAINESVILLE THIRD THURSDAY ON MAIN Third Thursdays from 5 – 9pm Downtown Main Street

ALACHUA - Visitors can relax and enjoy a free concert, outside dining, and shopping on a walkable boulevard closed to traffic that evening. There will also be craft beer and wine tastings offered by First Magnitude Brewing Company, Swamphead Brewery and Bluefield Estate Winery. This event is sponsored by the City of Alachua Community Redevelopment Agency. cityofalachua.com

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET Thursdays from 12 noon – 4pm First Saturday each month from 9am – 1pm 115 NE Railroad Avenue

HIGH SPRINGS - Florida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy & meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced

by The City of High Springs. farmersmarket. highsprings.com

Last Fridays from 7pm - 10pm Downtown

GAINESVILLE - Artwalk Gainesville is a free self-guided tour that combines exciting visual art, live performance, and events in downtown Gainesville with many local galleries, eateries and businesses participating. Artwalk is an exciting, fun way to experience the amazing wealth of creativity the Gainesville community has to offer.

Free and open to the public. artwalkgainesville.com

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS MARKET Saturdays from 8:30am – 1pm 5920 NW 13th Street

GAINESVILLE - Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills.

The market prides itself on being a grower’s only market – meaning the vendors selling produce, plants, and other products must have grown the items themselves. The event space is located in an open air pavilion with additional outdoor booths protected by shade cloth. 441market.com

First Wednesdays from 7:30am - 9am 4650 NW 39th Place

PRIMETIME EDUCATION SERIES

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

GAINESVILLE - Join Jennifer Webb at St. Leo University on the first Wednesday of each month for a free, compassionate networking event.

You’ll introduce your company, make great connections, and engage in a lively discussion on a topic that is designed to improve the community. For more information email Jennifer@ magiccomm.com

Thursdays from 2:30 - 4pm Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd.

Saturdays from 8:30am – 12pm Haile Plantation Village

GAINESVILLE - PrimeTime Institute (PTI) provides a wide variety of educational programs and social activities for people age 50+ that foster wellness, encourage personal and intellectual growth, and that provide an environment for developing new interests, making new friends, and becoming involved as volunteers. Schedule at www.primetimeinstitute.org

GAINESVILLE - Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food, and handmade gifts, then continue on for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shops and restaurants. hailefarmersmarket.com

STORYTIME AT THE ZOO! Second Wednesdays (until Sept.)

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

GAINESVILLE - Join the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and the Alachua County Library every 2nd Wednesday of the month for Storytime at the Zoo starting at 10am. Typically this lasts 30-45 minutes and is a great way to start your visit! Storytime is free. Zoo admission information is available online. sfcollege.edu/zoo

116 |

thousands come out to enjoy the FREE live concerts and shows in a family-friendly environment. gnvculturalseries.org

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

FREE FRIDAYS CONCERT SERIES Fridays from 8 – 10pm Bo Didley Plaza, 100 SW 2nd Ave

GAINESVILLE - From May 4 to October 19, 2018, Downtown Gainesville comes alive every Friday night as local and regional bands and performing arts are showcased under the stars. Each year

SEND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS TO: 4 4 00 N W 3 6 T H A V E ., G A I N E S V I L L E , F L 32 606 or E V E N T S @ T O W E R P U B L I C A T I O N S . C O M Submissions will be published based on space available in the magazine. Recurring monthly/bi-monthly events must be free & open to the public. Paid events must be open to the public. Unique events that occur regularly such as classes, seminars and networking events will be published at our discretion. Religious organizations may post events only if the event promotes the arts, or is a fundraiser where 100% of the proceeds go to another, non-religious, non-profit organization. Events that are political in nature may not be approved.

INTRODUCING…

E sscape cape from from yyour ourr dday-to-day ay to day routine overnight over erni nigg ni with th A Relaxing ov

Beach getAway!

!

– while supplies last th on m y er ev s al de new

T CERTIFICATES IF G EE FR E N O ET G BUY ONE, STORES! TO THE BEST LOCAL

JUST 10 MILES SOUTH OF HISTORIC ST. AUGUSTINE

Kelly’s Kreations gifts & flowers

Leonardo’s pizza

of Millhopper

6970 A1A, St. Augustine

1-800-527-8849 www .beacherslodge. com

VISIT BOGOBARGAIN.COM TODAY!

MEMBER OF

BOGO BARGAIN DEALS AVAILABLE IN LIMITED QUANTITIES.

BOARDING for DOGS & CATS GROOMING • DAY CARE

Follow us to the

Bed ‘n Biscuit Inn IN HIGH SPRINGS

386-454-0676

SPRING BASEBALL

LEAGUE

T-Ball, Machine Pitch, Kid Pitch

Ages: 4-12

Bed ‘n Biscuit Inn

March 26 - 28 @ Jonesville Park

We love them as much as you do!

www.gatorballtraining.com

www.bednbiscuit.net MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 117

117

118

BAND B BA ND REVIEW

BRIAN “KRASH” KRUGER’S

Gate Crashing ON DECK FOR REVIEW: PINE

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: FRIDAY, MARCH 30, 2018 VENUE: VINE SOURDOUGH BAKERY

G

reetings, live music aficionados! This installment finds us at Vine Sourdough Bakery, located at 627 N. Main Street, frequently shortened to simply “The Vine.”

The Vine is in fact a bakery, where organic pastry, breads and pasta are made. In addition to those, the Vine has a selection of soft drinks, beer and wine. There is a small seating area inside for customers, as well as a couple tables outside as well. The indoor happy hour Friday shows generally start around 6 Pine p.m., and given the small space tend to be acoustic-oriented acts, playing at relatively low volume, to a few dozen people maximum.

Tonight’s show started at 7 p.m. rather than 6 p.m., as it was part of Gainesville Artwalk. That long-running monthly event’s webpage describes it as a “free monthly self-guided tour that combines exciting visual art, live performance, and events in downtown Gainesville, Florida.”

The event is held the last Friday of each month in the early evening, with venues including restaurants, brewpubs, bars, theatres, and art galleries.

This particular event was held at 16 different locations! The “self-guided” part of the event is that if you go to Artwalk Gainesville’s webpage, you can print out a map that lists all the venues and the artists, and then plan where you want to go and what artists and works you want to see.

Which brings us back to the Vine. The (visual) artist featured that particular night was Lauren Reveri, a self-taught mosaicist who uses broken pottery and dishes to make her pictures. A quote from her on the event’s Facebook relates “I love to look

118 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

at faces. Old photos, old buildings, nature, infrastructure. I see things and I want to make them into mosaics.” The aforementioned Artwalk Gainesville map added that the pieces she was showing chronicled her travels and discoveries over the last couple of years. And those pieces were lovely, displaying smart use of color and composition, and often incorporating a whimsical element that added to their charm.

Meanwhile, the musical entertainment at the Vine was provided by the acoustic quintet Pine. The group consists of Liberty Phoenix, vocals, Dan Stepp, vocals and guitar, Brian Turk

on stand-up bass, Andrew Cook on violin and backing vocals, and Mark Archer on dobro (a slide guitar held sideways, and with a metal resonator). During their first set, between songs, they told the story of how Liberty and Dan had met at a birthday party and began singing together then and there only to be scolded for distracting the party goers from other planned activities. The

duo decided to continue as a full string band, adding the additional instrumentalists, who are all local scene veterans. In particular they joked that bassist Turk was in pretty much every other Gainesville band, and in fact at least a couple of those (Wax Wings and Cicada Shell) have been covered in this here column.

On my slightly early arrival, the band was doing a sound check with an interesting combination of old and new technologies.

The latter was what looked to be a Bose brand L1 PA system. Instead of the usual speakers in box-like cabinets, the main speaker (with a subwoofer at its base) is a 6-foot-tall cylinder or “stick,” using what Bose calls its “Spatial Dispersion” technology. In contrast, all three singers sang using a single “suspension” or “spring” microphone similar (visually, at least) to those used in the 1920s and ‘30s. The kind that feature a circular mount frame with springs suspending the microphone’s diaphragm in the center. If you’ve ever seen vintage footage from the earliest days of the Grand Ole Opry — of singers and instrumentalists all sharing one microphone and leaning in for solos in order to make themselves louder in the mix, or microphones used in studios for early radio drama broadcasts, you know what I’m talking about.

At any rate, after some tweaks Pine made this system sound great. They opened their set of originals with “Shine Like Gold,” which features the wistful lyrical refrain “I remember you,” with Liberty and Dan trading lead vocals. Also, as with most songs in their set, the song featured low-key, understated solos from both the fiddle and the dobro. The band mentioned they were currently producing a video for their song “Shark’s Teeth,” which contains a line with a local name-check: “ride the Hogtown-Santa Fe,” and encouraged dancing during “New Lovers Waltz,” whose fiddle solo had a Gypsy Jazz feel.

Given the small size of the venue there was no waltzing, but a very enjoyable and expertly performed set was on display. One final note, singer Liberty Phoenix is indeed from that local family known for its inventively-named siblings, but don’t let that sway you one way or the other. Pine is just fine all on its own.

Now go see some bands. s

It’s Time to Freshen Up Those Flower Beds!

10% OFF your purc

ha if you men se tion this ad.

BENEFITS OF MULCH

• Reduce soil moisture evaporation • Suppress existing weeds + prevent new weed germination • Insulate soil from extreme temperature changes • Reduce soil erosion and compaction • Gradually decompose adding valuable organic material to the soil • Make landscaping more attractive • Over 10 varieties available • Pickup or delivery available - Pine Straw

352-372-9965 • WWW.GRIFFISLUMBER.COM LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

ADVANCED GOLDWELL COLORISTS specializing in all areas of hair beauty

Where Your Style IS OUR PASSION

FOLLOW US ON PINTREST

Cootie CoSo C R E ATI O N SPECIALIZING S C G IN:

Stamping, Mixed Media & Fine Arts

perience A crafting exhe like no ot r!

OPEN: Fri. 10-8 Sat. 10-6 Sun. 11-5 Mon. 10-8 At Magnolia Parke in Gainesville 4994 NW 39th Avenue, Suite D

352-374-2444 www.charismaforhair.com

OPEN Tuesday thru Friday 9 - 9 Saturday 9 - 6 (closed on Mon)

Mon calentdhalyr of classe activitiess & !

COOTIECOOCREATIONS.COM

280 NE 1st Ave. High Springs, FL

386-454-8008 MAY/JUNE 2018

Owner Sharon Kantor

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 119

119

120

FOOD >> COLORFUL CUISINE

VIBR ANT DISH

Taste the Rainbow Treat Your Palate to Something Colorful this Summer S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY S TE PH S TRICKL A N D

S

ummertime is here! As we seek shelter from those red hot rays, why not step inside a few local establishments and order something bright? Each of these restaurants has something unique to offer the community; from decadent ice pops to eye-catching sushi, they are all cooking up something colorful and tasty. Don’t forget to add a drink umbrella to whatever beverage you might be sipping. It’s flip-flop season, after all!

The Classic Acai Bowl at Big Island Bowls 5402 NW 8th Ave, Gainesville, 32605 Tom Kirk and his coworkers sang along to the smooth radio, which was broadcasting throughout the restaurant. Each of them wore a smile while they crafted smoothies, bowls and other delicious concoctions. Big Island Bowls represents the core value of island cuisine with their carefree and relaxing ambiance; this restaurant provides Gainesville residents a unique opportunity to leave their worries at the door and enjoy a myriad of tropical-inspired foods.

One signature dish on the menu is the Classic Acai Bowl shown here. This bowl provides the perfect 120 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

summer treat with a sweet and tangy taste that will surely captivate the taste buds. All of the ingredients within the bowl provide their own healthy attributes and customers are encouraged to mix and match various ingredients to align with their own preferences.

From fresh fruits to hemp seeds and honey, each ingredient within this bowl is meant to serve mind and body. Kirk said that the owners “pull from their own experiences” when crafting each element of the restaurant, from the extensive menu to the gallery of personal and inspirational photos displayed on the walls of the restaurant. This charming Gainesville destination emphasizes healthy foods with countless vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 121

121

122

FOOD >> COLORFUL CUISINE

The Butternut Squash Bisque and Hummus + Veggie Sandwich at Vine Sourdough Bakery 627 N Main St, Gainesville, 32601 Nothing can beat a home-cooked meal made from scratch, except when that home-cooked meal is made for you. Vine Sourdough Bakery incorporates wholesome, local ingredients into their dishes made from scratch daily. Shown here is the Butternut Squash Bisque partnered with a Hummus + Veggie Sandwich.

The soup was everything that a well-crafted bisque should be: fluffy, creamy and hearty.

Additionally, the striking yellow of the soup was eye-catching, and it seemed that everyone who entered the restaurant wanted a taste. The Hummus Veggie Sandwich complemented well with the soup, although they are sold separately, costumers are encouraged to mix and match their dish choices.

This sandwich offered a salty contrast to the sweetness of the bisque and was jam-packed with fresh vegetables, making the meal nothing to feel guilty about. Vine also offers a myriad of delicious treats that many customers enjoy throughout the day. Teresa Ramthun, the owner of Vine Sourdough Bakery, explained that the organization makes a great effort to be inclusive for all dietary needs because this restaurant is “based on our love for the community,” she said.

The O-Renji Roll at Dragonfly Sushi and Sake Company 201 SE 2nd Ave #104, Gainesville, 32601 Dinner time does not have to mean another meal with a bland look. In fact, this meal can be just as colorful as any other. Dragonfly Sushi and Sake Company is known for their wide variety of unique sushi options. The O-Renji Roll, shown here, provides a unique summer option to thrill any taste buds. This roll features fresh ingredients such as tuna and yellowtail with a pop of citrus and spice on top, which provides an interesting combination of textures and flavors to amp up any summer palate.

There are many contrasting tastes and textures to this roll, such as the contrast between the fish and avocado, which also work to complement each other. The O-Renji Roll was not only striking to look at but also delicious, and it was crafted by hand upon ordering. Dragonfly also offers a unique opportunity for customers to experience “Japanese style tapas” made a-la-carte.

122 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

FREE IRRIGATION

Isn’t It Time You Enjoyed Your Lawn

LANDSCAPE

TURF & ORNAMENTAL TREATMENTS

INSPECTION

With

SERVICE AGREEMENT

IRRIGATION

OUR DIFFERENCE • • • • •

Clean, Branded Vehicles Professional, Uniformed Personnel Timely Response Guarantee Safe, Reliable Equipment: Maintained Daily Status and Quality Reports Delivered Timely

352.235.4701

WWW.GAINESVILLE.GROUNDSGUYS.COM

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 123

123

124

FOOD >> COLORFUL CUISINE

The Rainbow Sprinkles Cupcake at Patticakes

The Unicorn Roll at Zero Degrees

Bo Diddley Plaza AND Haile Village Center

3033 SW 34th St, Gainesville, 32608

This quaint dessert café has become a staple for many venturing to downtown and Bo Diddley Plaza. While they are known for their cupcakes, which provide a burst of creamy color and flavor, they also provide many other food and drink options. Students tend to gather here to drink coffee and tea while enjoying some treats as they work.

The cupcake shown here is their go-to vanilla cupcake, with the added texture of some rainbow sprinkles. Patticakes is known for cupcakes such as this one, which are perfectly crafted to taste just as delicious as they look. They’re also known for creating numerous holiday and seasonal treats, such as their St. Patty’s Day cupcake — complete with a “pot of gold” at the bottom of a rainbow.

Tiffany Williams, the manager of Patticakes in downtown Gainesville said they “work to incorporate what is in season.”

Customers can look forward to more fruity flavors such as blueberry as these flavors come into season in the warmer months. Additionally, Patticakes is working toward crafting their Wine Pairings that are set to begin in May. Williams said that she enjoys working at Patticakes because it gives her the opportunity to “serve people and bring joy.”

124 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

You don’t have to believe in unicorns to believe in the sweetness of the Unicorn Roll at Zero Degrees. Made fresh to order with any choice in toppings, Zero Degrees in Gainesville is tackling this internet sensation perfectly. Customers have an opportunity to see their concoctions come to life from beginning to end.

The Unicorn Roll begins as striking pink and blue creams, and once they are rolled together, toppings such as strawberries, blueberries and cotton candy are added to the top. The rolled ice cream possesses a yogurt-like texture that provides an experience much different than traditional scoops. The Unicorn Roll is perfect for sweet-tooths of all ages and is especially refreshing during the summer months.

Cameron Le, an employee at Zero Degrees since their grand opening in October of 2017, said that she loves the Unicorn Roll and customers are often drawn to it because of the Cotton Candy and the pop of color. Ice cream rolls originally began as a Thai treat, but due to their irresistible looks they have blown up on social media, leading to the popularity of these types of ice cream parlors all across America.

10% OFF All Dentures

DENTURES

LIMITED TIME OFFER

STARTING AS LOW AS

$315* (D5110, D5120)

FOR UPPER OR LOWER ECONOMY DENTURES *regularly $350 - fee shown is with 10% off

Hurry! Now through August 31, 2018 20107-10

EXTRACTIONS STARTING AT

STEPHAN M. SHOWSTARK, DMD GENERAL DENTIST

$105

AFFORDABLE DENTURESGAINESVILLE, P.A. 9200 NW 39TH AVE., SUITE 200 SPRINGHILL COMMONS SHOPPING CTR GAINESVILLE, FL 32606

( D714 0 )

FREE

CONSULT & X-RAY

FOR NEW DENTURE PATIENTS

FOR MORE INFO CALL

352.376.8229 EXPIRES 08.31.2018

NO COUPON NECESSARY. 10% off denture discount valid through August 31, 2018. Minimum estimated value of Consult and X-Ray is $75, and covers a traditional 2-D X-Ray. Same-day service on Economy Dentures in most cases, call for details.

Additional fees may be incurred depending on individual cases. Advertised fees effective through 08/31/18. These are minimum fees and charges may increase depending on the treatment required. THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

AFFORDABLEDENTURES.COM

Making your floors

NEW AGAIN!

• Carpet Cleaning • Tile & Grout Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning • Area Rug Specialist • Air-duct Cleaning • Pet Odor Control • Water Damage Specialist

Being different is what makes us special!

The Best Restoration

Masters of Disasters

352-505-3321

WWW.THEBESTRESTORATION.COM

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 125

125

126

FOOD >> COLORFUL CUISINE

The Coconut Lime Dragon Popsicle at Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops 214 SE 2nd Ave, Gainesville, 32601 AND 3232 SW 35th Blvd, Gainesville, 32608 This ice pop shop has marketed itself based on its unique flavor combinations, which have blown up in popularity across the state of Florida. In Gainesville alone there are two locations, and both offer all of the mouth-watering flavors that make Hyppo so enticing. The flavor shown here is known as Coconut Lime Dragon and is one of over 600 flavors that the organization has created.

According to Morgan Gustin, the manager of Gainesville Hyppo, both locations have thousands of ice pops on hand and upwards of 50 flavors on display. This ice pop in particular combined natural fruit flavors of coconut, lime and dragon fruit in a subtle way that made this popsicle especially refreshing. The purple hue of the dragon fruit was very vibrant, bringing back the days of buying brightly colored ice pops from the local ice cream truck. And the best part? These popsicles are made with carefully selected ingredients to create unique flavors that are healthy and won’t break the piggy bank.

126 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Custom Cakes and Treats at Flour Pot Bakery 13005 SW 1 Rd Suite 137, Newberry, 32669 Flour Pot Bakery is known for its delicious treats featured all day on their extensive menu, but they have also become known for accommodating the unique needs of each individual who sets foot in their restaurant. From their extensive collection of gluten free and vegan options to their willingness to adapt any recipe to fit the style of the patron, Flour Pot knows customer service like the back of its hand. Jay Twining, a returning customer of Flour Pot, said “as a person with a dairy allergy, it was refreshing to find a bakery that [not only] accommodated my needs, but also were happy and delighted to provide that extra service...”

Shown here is a custom cake, one of hundreds that the company creates, decorated with colorful rainbows that are perfect for summertime. This special treat was made from scratch in order to ensure that it is perfectly crafted from top to bottom. The restaurant and bakery also feature numerous colorful treats such as tarts and macaroons.

The Signature Salad at Popovers on Main 14816 Main St, Alachua, 32615 Popovers has become a popular destination in downtown Alachua with its cozy atmosphere, which makes one feel like they are right at home.

The Signature Salad features a colorful – and healthy – array of vegetables that taste as good as they look. Popovers put a creative flare on a simple recipe and made it their own.

Mary Nell Combs, the restaurant and bakery owner, said that their Signature Salad is unlike any other because they include wholesome ingredients and never mix them, “it’s all about the presentation,” she said. Popovers on Main creates a welcoming atmosphere by replicating the foods that could be found in grandma’s kitchen. In fact, every customer receives a free popover — inspired

by Combs’ grandmother and her renowned popover recipe — “that’s what really draws people in,” she said. Customers agree that Popovers on Main is a great stop for a filling meal and A+ service, Bonnie R. said, “The food and atmosphere is a delight! Mary Nell does it right!”

Hungry yet? s PHOTOGRAPHY: ADRIENNE FLETCHER, FITZ PERCEPTIONS

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 127

127

128

SPOTLIGHT

RESCUE ANIMAL ADOPTIONS

Furever Friends LEMON & KELLY AND MATTHEW

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 there, my name is Lemon – the cat formally known as Hector.

That’s right, Prince isn’t the only one that can reinvent himself. Besides, the name Lemon just highlights my golden coloring and refreshing personality.

I’m a 13-year-old buff tabby – buff as in my fur tone, although I am in great shape, if I do say so myself. Yes, that’s fur not fat, okay. I bet you’re wondering how I got here, sharing my adoption story with you. Well, grab some popcorn because this is going to be good.

Back in 2005, I was adopted. Everything was great and I was happy, but somehow I ended up on the streets – and not Sesame Street. I can’t remember how it happened – I’m 13, I can be a little forgetful. I made my way to this apartment and found Matthew and Kelly. They fed me and would sometimes let me come inside so they could play with me. They weren’t ready to adopt me yet, but I could tell they were on the verge of making me part of their family. Just as my plan of finding a new home was about to come to an end, I was catnapped and taken to the Alachua County Humane Society. Don’t get me wrong, they were nice people, but I wanted my furever home.

The shelter tried to contact my first family because I was microchipped, but no one ever came for me. To my surprise, Matthew and Kelly found me again – they must have put my photo on a milk carton or something after I went missing. I heard them say something about finding me on the internet, whatever that means. They adopted me on St. Patrick’s Day, which was fitting because they were lucky to find me again. Okay, I was lucky too. I’m currently staying at Matthew’s place because Kelly’s roommate doesn’t like pets, which is odd because it’s not like I’m a dog, I’m a cat, which means I’m better.

My parents bought me a cozy bed to sleep in, but my favorite spot to take my morning, afternoon and night naps – don’t judge me I need my beauty sleep – is on top of Matthew’s duffel bag. I don’t know why, but it’s so comfy and therefore I’ve claimed it as my own. Matthew is getting his master’s in political campaigning, and Kelly is in her senior year of getting her bachelor’s in art history. They said that having me helps melt their school stress away. I also try to help Matthew out by waking him up in the morning for work. He has to go to work so he can take care of me in the manner I’m accustomed to.

Sometimes I’ll lay on him or run across the apartment until he wakes up and makes me some breakfast.

When Kelly and Matthew get a new place together in the fall, it’s going to be hard to decide who to snuggle with first. I was lucky to find my furever home two different times and I hope that one day the friends I made back at the humane society are able to find theirs too. s 128 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

Lemon’s adoption photo (above) from the Alachua County Humane Society.

A family photo (top) of Matthew, Lemon and Kelly.

Third Annual benefit event for the Alachua County Humane Society

November 8, 2018

Save the Date!

Friday, November 8th, 2018 | 6 PM – 10 PM The Barn at Rembert Farms in Alachua, Florida For sponsorship information and further details, please call Margot DeConna at 352-415-2460. www.alachuahumane.org | 4205 NW 6th Street | Gainesville, Florida 32609 MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 129

129

Don't worry Dads...

We've got you covered too.

the

Liquor & Wine Shoppe at Jonesville Sh

NEW

BE R R

Y R D.

Kangaroo

Gator Spirits & Fine Wines

14451 Newberry Road, Jonesville Turn at CVS in Jonesville and come straight to us.

352-332-3308

5701 SW 75th St. Gainesville

I-7 5 ER WAD TORO

The Liquor Wine &oppe

CVS

CR 241

130

For the Mom who deserves her own time out.

ne Gator FiSpirits Wine &

A RC H

AD

E R RO

Conveniently located in the Tower Square shopping area.

352-335-3994

LIKE BOTH LOCATIONS ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES ON WINE TASTINGS AND OTHER EVENTS! 130 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & EMERGENCY VISITS

OPEN FRIDAYS!

Dr. Charles G. Cox, Jr., DMD 23321 NW CR 236, High Springs, Florida 32643

386-454-2665 WELCOMES DR. JONATHAN WEISS… Dr. Charles Cox is proud to announce the addition of our new associate, Dr. Jonathan Weiss, to our team!

Dr. Weiss graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

He enjoys being involved in the community and lives here in High Springs.

Specializing in General Dentistry • Crown & Bridge • Implant Restoration • Dentures & Partials • Routine Cleanings

• • • •

Cosmetic Dentistry Root Canals Periodontal Care Teeth Whitening Office Hours Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

WE ARE IN NETWORK WITH FLORIDA COMBINED LIFE (BLUE DENTAL CHOICE PLAN ONLY), HUMANA STATE OF FLORIDA EMPLOYEES, BCBS FEDERAL, SUNLIFE/ASSURANT, DELTA DENTAL (PREMIERE) AND WE FILE TO ANY/ALL PPO PLANS (HOWEVER WE WOULD BE CONSIDERED OUT OF NETWORK).

MAY/JUNE 2018

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

| 131

131

132

CLEAN, SAFE COST-EFFECTIVE

Call GRU Natural Gas at 352-393-1400 or visit gru.com/naturalgas for details.

You may be eligible to receive a

$44 CREDIT

on your ďŹ rst month’s bill when you mention Our Town!*

Take advantage of up to

$1,600 in Natural Gas appliance rebates!

* Some restrictions apply. Offer limited to eligible single-family homeowners who replace their LP gas, oil or electric appliances with natural gas models. New GRU natural gas customers only.

132 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2018