Our Town 2020 MAR-APR (Newberry & Jonesville)

STORY SUMMIT TEDXUF CANDACE CLIFT THE MAGIC OF PUBLIC LIBR ARIES DIY: BUNNY BUMS

MARCH/APRIL 2020 | VOL. 18 ISSUE 02

Tell me a Story Storytelling — in its varied and ever-growing forms — is an important way for people to relate to the world and to each other

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Our Town

NEWBERRY & JONESVILLE EDITION

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CONTENTS

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

M a rc h/A p r i l 2020

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ON THE COVER >> Step into the world of storytelling. What kind of tales are swimming around in your

imagination? From speakers and readers to writers and performers — everyone has a story to tell. What’s yours?

C O V E R PH O T O G RAPH Y B Y M ICHA E L A . E A D DY. W AR D R O B E PR O V I D E D B Y T H E HIPP O D R O M E T H E AT R E .

PR O P S PR O V I D E D B Y F RI E N D S O F T H E LI B RAR Y. M O D E L : M ARI S S A T O O G O O D .

FEATURE STORIES 68 HIGH SPRINGS PLAYHOUSE

77 CREATIVE CAFÉ

74 WESTFEST

80 DIY BUNNY BUMS

Act out some of the greatest stories of all time as you read about the past, present and future productions of the playhouse.

Get the details on Newberry’s annual concert for the community. With Sister Hazel set to perform, this year’s event is sure to enterain!

Understand the value of giving children the opportunity to unwind through creativity, which this afterschool club has mastered.

An Easter craft that is sure to charm your Sunday brunch guests. Just follow a few simple steps to create this adorable table centerpiece or place card holder.

March/April 2020

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CONTENTS

M a rc h/A p r i l 2020

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STORY SUMMIT Feel the welcoming warmth of local storytelling organizations coming together to share their moving tales.

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TO BE After surviving breast cancer, NY-based actor and Hippodrome company member Candace Clift returns to Gainesville and acting with her one-woman show.

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PRIMITIVE FORMS OF STORYTELLING Discover the roots of some of the earliest ways stories were told.

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TEDXUF Get the scoop on the annual TED talk conference that takes place in our town.

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FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY Mark it on your calendar! The Spring FOL Book Sale is always a community favorite.

EASTER CELEBRATIONS! From egg hunts to Sunday services, there’s more than one way to enjoy this spring day!

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THE STORY SO FAR Experience the ongoing journey of local author Albert Isaac — a writer, editor and seasoned storyteller.

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STORYTELLING MAJORS Students grow their skill set with classes that help them become better communicators.

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TALES AS OLD AS TIME Expect the unexpected with the surprising history of fairy tales.

READING PALS A program that matches young students struggling to read with an adult mentor.

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FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS Learn about four women who helped shape Florida into what it is today.

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EASTER EGG EXPLANATIONS Explore the history behind some of Easter’s oddest and oldest traditions.

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

March/April 2020

COLUMNS 35 E MBRACING LIFE

by Donna Bonnell

44 N AKED SALSA

by Crystal Henry

150 F ARM TALES

by Mother Hen

160 F UREVER FRIENDS Spotlight on Rescue Animals

REVIEWS 66 R EADING CORNER

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

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THELMA BOLTIN Learn about the queen of the Florida Folk Festival and her push to encourage communication between generations.

She left a historic footprint not only on Gainesville, but the entire state.

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PUBLIC LIBRARY MAGIC Wonderful literacy programs hosted by local libraries that encourage storytelling.

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Our Town SPECIAL SECTION:

Showcase for the kind words in customer testimonials.

INFORMATION 132 T aste of the Town 136 C ommunity Calendar The articles printed in Our Town do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Tower Publications, Inc. or their editorial staff. Our Town Magazine endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we can not be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Our Town Magazine reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. All rights reserved. © 2020 Tower Publications, Inc.

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PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Hank McAfee

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ericka Winterrowd editor@towerpublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kaitlin Applegate, Dana Bryan, Cameron Cobb, Emily Felts, Summer Jarro, Peggy Macdonald, Michaela Mulligan, Stephanie Richards, Steph Strickland, Marlowe Starling, Joanna Grey Talbot, Hayli Zuccola CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael A. Eaddy, Emily Felts, Hannah Ulloa

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ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com INTERN Dana Bryan, Marlowe Starling, Emily Felts

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.

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.)

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

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

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EDITOR ’ S LET TER

M a rc h/A p r i l 2020

The Blank Page

I’ve often thought of people as books. Some are very weathered with tattered but loved pages, and some are so new they still have a plastic wrapper on – like when I witnessed my niece, Mollie, being born. Her tiny hand squeezed onto my index finger as she received her first shots in the delivery room. That moment, for example, would be in the first two pages of her story. I, on the other hand, knew it would be a whole chapter in mine: “The day I met the most magical girl in the world.”

My first foray into the world of storytelling began with theatre. I fell in love with drama and the spoken word of Shakespeare. I remember when I was cast in a high school production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” I was enchanted with the magical world of fairies and lovers, as well as the rhythm I felt on my tongue as I read such beautiful words aloud.

It was later, however, that I discovered just how much I love words in general and that they are the building blocks of storytelling. Writing can be a tricky business, though. Most often it’s a solitary one, but I happen to like it that way. I see the process as a sacred time where I sit at my desk staring at a blank word document and repeat these words: “Just tell the story, Ericka.” And then I begin. You see, the beginning is always the hardest part.

The truth is, I’ve often found that blank page terrifying. OK, not just terrifying but infuriating. Poet Dorothy Parker is quoted as having said, “I hate writing, I love having written.” Man, that Dorothy knew what was up. As a writer, I know all too well the feeling of a story being held captive. You can feel it bubbling up inside of you and you’re the only one standing in its way. That’s pretty powerful. And daunting.

What I’ve come to realize after years of putting pen to paper, or rather fingers to keyboard, is that a white canvas is actually freeing. It’s a new beginning.

The ‘Story of Life,’ however (for those lucky enough to have lived a decent number of chapters), shows us that new beginnings can oftentimes be incredibly lonely and even painful.

Those are the pages where the main character gets their heart broken or experiences great loss — the kind that makes you ache in places you never knew existed.

If you keep turning the page, though, a new cast of characters eventually enters. And slowly, word-by-word, new adventures are written. Our heroine’s character arc shoots across the sky as she discovers new meaning and purpose – and who knows – maybe even new love. All of that comes from having the courage to stare the emptiness down and tell it – “Not today, blank page, I’m gonna keep writing. My story isn’t finished yet!”

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

March/April 2020

On the contrary, it’s just beginning…

Ericka Winterrowd, Editor-In-Chief

— CORRECTION — In the January/February 2020 edition of Our Town magazine, there was a photographer credit ommision on page 64. The inset photo of the female Painted Bunting was taken by Lloyd Davis.

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COMMUNITY CREATIVITY

M a rc h/A p r i l 2020

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Young Writers Storytelling Contest Attention all young creative minds out there—have you ever dreamed of having your original fiction story in print? Now is your chance to put pen (or type) to paper and enter Our Town Magazine’s Storytelling Contest! We at Tower Publications would like to encourage you to become the next Beatrix Potter (“The Tale of Peter Rabbit”) or E. B. White (“Charlotte’s Web”).

We know there are many talented families in our community and we are anticipating some really great stories. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or neighbors—if you know of a young writer, please encourage them to join the fun and enter our contest. It is very possible that someone is right here among us who will become the next famous author and only needs to be inspired to believe in themselves. So, our challenge to you is to spread the word and encourage these young talents to write their original story.

Teachers, this could be a great opportunity to assign a writing project for your students, reading the finished works aloud in class and taking a vote for the top stories to submit to our magazine. Have fun with it!

Young writers, grades 4-12, are invited to submit their original story between 500 to 1,000 words to be considered for the grand prize of having their work published in the May/June issue of Our Town. Consideration for originality and creativity will be judged by a panel of professional writers on our staff. We are so excited to receive the submissions. Write on!

For more information contact editor@towerpublications.com

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• Story must have an animal as the main character.

• Main character must have “thoughts” or dialog involving other characters.

• Must have an uplifting plot or good moral to the story (such as Aesop’s Fables).

• Stories should be 500-1,000 words in length.

• Submissions must include: Title of Story, Writer’s Name, Age, School/Grade, & Contact info.

Submissions can be emailed to editor@towerpublications.com, or mailed to: Tower Publications, Inc. 4400 NW 36th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606 *Attn: Editor-in-Chief 16 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

March/April 2020

Let us care for you and your family at one of our three locations in west Gainesville.

From checkups to comprehensive care, UF Health Family Medicine has expanded its locations to better serve the needs of our community. UF Health’s board-certified physicians are equipped to provide top-quality care with convenient access to the latest technologies and research advances, including specialty care as needed. Extended hours at some of our locations are also available to meet the needs of your; and your family’s schedule. Make an appointment at one of our newest locations today.

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CONTRIBUTOR S

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

M a rc h/A p r i l 2020

KAITLIN APPLEGATE is a 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

DANA BRYAN is a second-year journalism student at the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she loves to read, write amateur code and watch television. itsdanabryan@gmail.com

EMILY FELTS Emily is a journalist and photojournalist studying at the University of Florida. She has been in love with photography since she was 15, and her passion for it expands every day. She hopes to pursue a career as a magazine photographer after graduation. emilylaane@gmail.com

SUMMER JARRO is a journalism student at the University of Florida. Along with writing, she loves Disney, watching old films, going to the beach and traveling to new places. summerjarro@gmail.com

PEGGY MACDONALD is a native Gainesvillian and teaches history at Stetson University. Her publications include a biography of environmental activist Marjorie Harris Carr and a forthcoming book on Florida’s female pioneers. peggymacdemos@gmail.com

MICHAELA MULLIGAN is a junior journalism major at the University of Florida and freelance writer. In her spare time, she loves to soak up the sun at the beach or curl up indoors with a good cup of coffee and a book. michaelarmulligan@gmail.com

STEPH STRICKLAND is a 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

MARLOWE STARLING is a sophomore journalism major at UF minoring in wildlife ecology and conservation. She loves reading, learning about world cultures, speaking French and finding ways to travel. marlowe.starling@ufl.edu

JOANNA GREY TALBOT is the marketing director for the Matheson History Museum and the author of the blog “Florida Revealed: Dispatches from the Land of Publix, Citrus, and Alligators.” joannagtalbot@gmail.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.

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STORYTELLER ORGANIZATIONS >> STORY SUMMIT

TELL ME A TALE

Story Summit Local Storyteller Organizations Unite to Connect with the Community W RIT TE N BY MICH A EL A MU LLIG A N P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y H A N N A H U L LO A

T

wice a year, Gainesville’s storytelling groups come together to celebrate the community’s unique voices from its three major storytelling organizations.

On Jan. 31, two speakers from each group, Guts & Glory, Self Narrate and The Conch, put on a show for a live audience in an event called Story Summit. Throughout the night, two speakers from each organization tell a story, some are snapshots of moments in their lives or of an entire lifetime of lessons they have learned. The speakers told stories of finding love and discovering their sexuality to tales of overcoming intense tragedies.

The audience at Heartwood laughed, and at others times, they wiped their wet cheeks.

It’s a setting made to induce emotions and feelings in an intimate environment. The audience of over a 100 people sat enraptured, as if watching a play, not their neighbor or friend or even a complete stranger tell their own personal story.

It’s an environment that’s curated to feel intimate. Story Summit seeks to inspire the feelings of home and comfort with their stage set up. A small red couch and table snuggled in-between two microphones.

Story Summit began in 2018, when the owner of Guts & Glory GVN, Taylor Williams, and the owner of Self Narrate, Brandon Telg, were continually receiving questions from their audience members on whether or not the two groups competed with one another.

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

March/April 2020

On Jan. 21, at the Heartwood Soundstage, an audience of over 100 people bought tickets to listen to the stories from three different storytelling groups: Self Narrate, The Conch and Guts & Glory GNV. Story Summit began in 2018 as a collaboration between each organization’s owners.

The event is a chance to showcase the unique aspects of each group’s specialties, from organized, practiced storytelling to more casual speaking.

March/April 2020

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STORYTELLER ORGANIZATIONS >> STORY SUMMIT

“We determined that we wanted to both show the community that we all work together and coexist peacefully together, but also wanted to provide to Gainesville the best storytelling event that we can possibly put on,” Telg said.

Self Narrate began after a graduate class at the University of Florida inspired Telg. In the class, the professor asked him to tell his story to the class, something no one had asked him before.

It was an act he found to be cathartic. Telg’s final assignment of that semester was to make a change in the community. It was a broad topic with no definite answer. Telg, along with his classmate, Jaron Jones, sat in Plaza of the Americas on UF’s campus with a sign that said, “Tell me your story, I’ll give you a dollar.” The first day, to the two men’s disbelief, only three people took the bait.

“We were shocked that it was so low, but we also didn’t know what to expect,” Telg said. “What we found was that each of those three people shared vulnerable and powerful experiences with us.”

After, he said he felt changed. It was something both Telg and Jones wanted to continue with, even if the results seemed uncertain.

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March/April 2020

So, they came back the next week. Those three people returned and they brought their friends. When they asked why those friends hadn’t stopped the first time, they told Telg and Jones that until the two had asked them a specific question about their lives, they didn’t think they had a story to tell.

“As Jaron and I were unpacking this, what we realized was that people, when we ask them for a specific story they gave us something incredible,” Telg said. “But it’s the idea of the construct of a ‘story’ with like quotation marks around it that people haven’t necessarily created for their own experiences.”

Eventually, the two created a workshop designed around storytelling. Their vision for the workshops is to give people the opportunity to grow and empower themselves through the storytelling process. Later, they would write a book, “Break Your Invisible Chains: Own the Power of Your Story,” create Self Narrate a 501c3 nonprofit and develop a podcast out of people telling their stories.

Telg explained that what he’s learned over the past five or six years is that people are looking for an outlet to connect with others.

“People are looking for that opportunity to really hear someone share something true about themselves and the opportunity to be heard in a safe, vulnerable and open way.”

Story Summit is a biannual event meant to showcase the talent of Gainesville’s storytelling community. Guts & Glory owner Taylor Williams hosted the event, introducing each speaker.

“People are looking for that opportunity to really hear someone share something true about themselves and the opportunity to be heard in a safe, vulnerable and open way,” Telg said.

If Story Summit is any sign, then it seems Telg is right.

Heartwood Soundstage sold out for the night and began selling tickets for the lobby area where people could watch the speakers from a TV outside. In Gainesville, the demand for storytelling is strong, and Story Summit is an example of this need for human connection.

Taylor Williams, the owner of Guts & Glory GNV, had grown up in Gainesville. After some time in New York and Washington D.C., where she fell in love with performing and improvisation, she moved back to Gainesville. As Williams was realizing the benefits storytelling and scripted writing was having on her own life, she recognized the benefits it could have for other’s too. She saw the value it could have within a company to communicate better internally and externally. She also saw that the average person could gain comfort and confidence through storytelling.

Guts & Glory GNV teaches people how to open up, but also how to do it in a polished, refined way. Where Telg specializes in

helping a person find their story, Williams specializes in honing that story for an audience.

“I felt like Gainesville needed an outlet for putting their life stories on the stage in a way where they could go through the process of being coached and really learn the elements of storytelling and public speaking,” Williams said.

Story Summit features speakers from each storytelling group, along with The Conch, which is a storytelling event that takes place at Satchel’s Pizza on the first Thursday of each month. It’s an event that invites anyone to come on stage to tell a 10-minute story.

Each group offers something different for someone looking to tell a personal story in Gainesville, and the Story Summit serves as a culmination of these impactful stories.

The main point in each group is to seek a connection with those around you.

“We always tell people who are in our cast for Story Summit that they’ll never have a more supportive audience,” Williams said. “The audience is there, so they’re so ready to laugh and they’re so ready to cry.”

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CANCER SURVIVOR >> CANDACE CLIFT

SURVIVAL SPOTLIGHT

To Be

or Not To Be Candace Clift’s Return to Gainesville and to Acting after Surviving Breast Cancer S T O R Y B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y M I C H A E L A . E A D DY

C

andace Clift was born to act — even if she didn’t realize it right away. The emotionally poetic words of Shakespeare captured her heart in high school, but for practicality reasons, she chose a degree in English and a profession in journalism to feed her imaginative personality. After graduating, she left writing for the Ojai Valley News in sunny California for the Times Record across the country on the coast of Maine, but like many artistic souls, she quickly became burnt out and burrowed herself into a mid-life crisis that ultimately led her to where she truly belonged: center stage.

Equipped with only the distant memory of reciting a monologue or two for her English class, Clift earned her acting chops later in life and joined Shakespeare & Company in Massachusetts and Advice to the Players in New Hampshire — both of which allowed her to work and perform in plays and theatres across New England.

Aware that she’d finally found her niche, she continued her education by earning her Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Florida and became a company member at the Hippodrome during her stint in Gainesville. With a degree in hand and a list of acting credits to her name, Clift made her way to the Big Apple to pursue her career as an actress. Eventually, through hard work and perseverance, she landed the role of her dreams — playing the lead in “Hamlet.” Of course, like any notable Shakespeare play, when hit with a triumphant high, a character is usually struck with an arc of tragedy and for Clift, it was breast cancer.

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Writing and performing her piece “To Be” was Candace Clift’s return to the acting world after surviving breast cancer. Unsure of where to go after overcoming her diagnosis, she did some self-exploration and decided to share her story and shine a light on her experience for all to see.

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CANCER SURVIVOR >> CANDACE CLIFT

Candace Clift debuted her one-woman show “To Be” at the Hippodrome Theatre as part of “The Hipp Unplugged,” a staged reading initiative that gives company members and local artists the chance to test out new material in front of an

It’s a diagnosis that would crush anyone’s spirit, but for Clift, it also broke her perception of her life’s purpose. She went through treatment — documenting her trials with chemotherapy and overall progress by blogging — but when her cancer disappeared, she was left a different person. She no longer had the desire to act, a passion and love she once held so deep, and instead was left rather empty and found herself questioning what was next.

“It’s one thing to lose part of my breast, but it’s another to lose my whole purpose in life after I survived cancer. I mean, I survived and I’m fine now, you know — knock on wood — so it’s like ‘why, how did that disappear? How?’ And that’s the kind of question at the center of it,” Clift said in a recent phone interview.

Though the disease drained her sense of being, it couldn’t steal her knack for creative expression. While working and teaching at the Barrow Group in New York City, Clift took a class taught by Martin Moran who encouraged his students to write their personal narrative — an exercise that quickly became an untraditional form of therapy for Clift. As a result of 26 |

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the course, the actress who lost her way began writing her life story by encompassing the euphoria of playing Hamlet to her battle with cancer and everything in between.

It was a cathartic approach that resulted in the basis for her first solo performance “To Be.” “It’s about when I was finally cast in the ultimate role that I had been hoping to play my entire life since at least 16, which was Hamlet, and I was cast as Hamlet and then I — within a matter of a few weeks — was diagnosed with breast cancer,” she said. “So it’s the story of playing Hamlet with breast cancer and then the fallout from facing something, I was 48 years old at that point, I had never had to consider my mortality or something so life-threatening and life-changing,” she said.

Clift recalls the impact this diagnosis had on her.

“It’s interesting, I sort of took it in stride as it was happening, but it was only in the month and year following it that I realized how much it had changed me,” she said.

Although Clift had her blog entries to work from, the act of

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translating her roller coaster of emotions into a performance piece that could connect with others was a lot harder than she imagined, and it was an undertaking that took nearly three years.

“I had pieces, but I didn’t know what the story was, and I certainly didn’t know how the story ended. When I started writing it, I was very confused. I didn’t know if this was a story about me reigniting my acting career. I didn’t know if it was a story about just cancer and all the whacky [expletive] that happens to you when you have cancer,” Clift said.

“What it finally ended up being was a process.

Writing it was in tandem with my process of recovery and kind of transforming. I was in therapy and it was very much a part of my therapeutic process as I’m making these

discoveries about who I am.”

Eventually, she established the direction of her story and refined an ending that holds a conclusion fitting for her current stage in life. However, “To Be” remains a story that’s open ended and unfinished because, after all, Clift herself is still walking a path of self-exploration, which leaves her future endeavors and the possibility of a sequel a mystery even for her.

“My piece is a lot about how I got cancer, and I stopped wanting to be an actor and how devastating and strange that seemed to me and inexplicable,” Clift said. “I think that the irony is that I’m an actor that doesn’t want to act anymore, but I’ve written this thing for my own healing. Really the reason I’m doing it is the hope that it will resonate

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CANCER SURVIVOR >> CANDACE CLIFT

with other people that it could, that it can help people, maybe other people who have similar battles with cancer who have faced these kinds of things. It’s sort of like — I have this huge skill set as an actor, and I want to use it now for that purpose, not for my own career.”

Aside from dress rehearsals and brief snippets presented to her friends and colleagues, Clift performed her one-woman show “To Be” for the first time on February 10th and 11th at the Hippodrome as part of the theatre’s new series “The Hipp Unplugged” — a staged reading initiative that gives company members and local artists the chance to test out new material in front of an audience. Not only does this performance mark the debut of “To Be,” but it’s also the first of Clift’s latest venture as a playwright and, aside from a single staged reading performance, marks her return to the world of acting since surviving breast cancer. It was a challenge in and of itself to regain the thirst for performing on stage again, but one of the biggest obstacles for Clift was separating her role as

a writer from that of an actor. As a writer, she managed to look at the overall picture and focus on the storytelling aspect of “To Be,” but as a trained actor, she had to connect with her character.

Presumably it would be easy considering it was herself, but instead it forced her to relive her life in a way she hadn’t experienced while writing.

Despite the initial sadness of losing her ambition to be an actress, Clift’s strife with cancer transformed her as a person and allowed her to realize that change is inevitable and our struggles alter us in ways we may not realize at first — a message that’s woven throughout “To Be.” “It’d be one thing to stand up there and tell you all the interesting things that happened when I had cancer treatment, but that’s not — to me — a really fulfilling story,” she said. “A fulfilling story has to take you on a journey, wrestle with something and leave you in a different place and that’s definitely true for my story. I hope it’s true for the audience as they watch it.”

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HISTORY >> STORYTELLING EVOLUTION

A LOOK BACK

EARLY FORMS OF STORYTELLING

History of the Tale W R I T T E N B Y D A N A B R YA N

Storytelling is one of the oldest forms of communication among humans. It has become a crucial part of human existence, dating back thousands of years — taking on many forms of expression.

CAVE PAINTINGS Cave paintings date as far back as 6,300 B.C. to 3,000 B.C. Before languages and the written word, painting on cave walls was a way of depicting important stories and legends. The stories were a combination of warnings, historical moments and simple tales for entertaining children. Red and black pigments covered the walls. Cavemen and cavewomen took the pigments from dirt, rocks and charcoal. As one of the earliest forms of storytelling, cave paintings are constantly being researched and analyzed by professionals.

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WORD OF MOUTH It seems once languages were formed, humans just couldn’t stop telling stories. People naturally began to group together, and larger populations established themselves in early years.

Elders, adults, teenagers and children would stand together creating, repeating and changing stories to entertain each other.

From simple conversations to spooky campfire stories, word of mouth hasn’t evolved as much as one thinks. People today continue to discuss their daily lives and use word of mouth to pass down information. Moms ask kids how their day was, and SOURCE: SMITHSONIAN MAGAZINE

kids animatedly respond with detailed descriptions. Teenagers eagerly gossip with one another about the latest relationship news. Adults complain about their annoying boss. Word of mouth is a form of storytelling that will never cease.

THEATRE Theatre was a transformation of word of mouth. People could not only discuss stories but could act them out. Why talk when you could perform? The earliest form of theatre is found in ancient Greece. Greeks performed stories in big arenas for people to listen and watch. The first plays were performed in the Theatre of Dionysus in Athens at the beginning of the 5th century, according to PBS. Performing stories rather than speaking them made tales more memorable and added an element of creativity that was unheard of for the time. Storytelling became an activity for the masses to consume and enjoy. It was no longer just for a few people or a group of individuals, but for a stadium of people to enjoy.

POETRY Poetry is considered one of the more sophisticated forms of storytelling.

Short and brief statements that sum up an entire concept, theme or idea revolutionized the way the world told and wrote stories. It’s a challenge to determine the oldest form of poetry. Some regard it as songs or hymns and others believe it to be written epics and sonnets. However, it’s a known fact that telling stories through special, rhythmic words has been around for centuries. Poetry contributed a different kind of beauty in condensing narratives to tell a story. It birthed another genre of literature and blossomed into the wide variety of music people consume today. Storytelling was always an art, but poetry restructured the art for even more people to appreciate.

FILM Film is one of the most modern forms of storytelling today. The first film ever made was in the 1880s by Louis Le Prince, a French inventor. It’s called the “Roundhay Garden Scene” and only lasts about two seconds long. However, two seconds was more than enough to begin a whirlwind of storytelling opportunities. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, it’s the oldest surviving film in existence. This silent film was the beginning of a new industry, a new art form, and most importantly a new way for people to communicate their story.

Films used to reflect real world scenarios but as time passed and technology developed, it became a way to show stories only found plausible in our wildest dreams.

MODERN ART From paintings on cave walls to framed paintings in museums, the way to convey a story through artistic mediums has changed drastically. Modern art includes art made from the 1860s to the 1970s. It’s art that focuses on experimentation and disregards traditional styles. According to the Museum of Modern Art, this kind of art form can be traced to the Industrial Revolution and the changes in social, economic and cultural standards that it brought with it. As humans evolved, extremely different stories needed to be told — so extremely different versions of art needed to be invented to do so. Modern art changed society’s perspectives on what kind of art stories could be told through. Artists painted their personal experiences exploring symbolism and their subconscious.

Past, present and future versions of storytelling will continue to spread the anecdotes our successors will laugh and cry over. Truthfully, the form of storytelling doesn’t matter just as long as we never stop telling stories.

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Embracing Life

COLUMN

DONNA BONNELL’S

BUDDY’S STORY

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

BEING A COLUMNIST/STORYTELLER IS A GIFT FOR WHICH I AM EXTREMELY GRATEFUL.

S

ometimes, however, it seems to be an obligation.

Everything I encounter is a story. My mind is almost incapable of seeing simply the surface value of anything. I am always searching for hidden meanings or trying to explain events that seem different than what is perceived as normal.

The benefits outweigh the burdens ten-fold when I discover new information, connect mysterious dots and/or help others embrace their lives by sharing personal experiences. Occasionally I stumble onto someone who has their own tale to tell.

Such was the case when I ‘met’ Buddy. Telling his story was a bit more challenging than some. You see, Buddy is a Pekin Duck.

Buddy resides in Northeast Florida on a lake that is adjacent to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, near the Atlantic Ocean. I learned from his human, Deb Leibecki, that it is a migratory path for various waterfowl and birds. In addition, their lake flows into the Intercoastal Waterway. Some define this area of coastal wetlands as where the waters meet.

Leibecki, a native Floridian, loves nature and cares a great deal about wildlife. While visiting friends (who live across the lake from Leibecki), I witnessed her nurturing spirit. Various waterfowl mysteriously knew the precise time for a free morning meal and/or a sunset supper. Magically, the ibis, mallards, pelicans, wood ducks and other feathered friends arrived just in time to partake in Leibecki’s buffet.

For days I watched this twice-daily ritual unfold. Like clockwork, Buddy waddled to his human. He had first dibs to dine and dipped his beak into the feed bowl. The visitors ate after Buddy.

It quickly became evident that Buddy was special.

Sadly, it seemed, most of the day Buddy hung out alone. Aside from his human, he had only one friend – a mallard hen. For some reason she strayed from her own group and befriended him. I named her Sidekick. Yet, Buddy seemed superior and highly respected by the locals and migrating fly-by visitors. Why? My storyteller fervor kicked into full gear. Investigating for clues became imperative, I had to know more. Leibecki’s

contact information was listed in the neighborhood’s homeowner association newsletter. So, I sent her an email. She graciously answered and sent pictures.

Leibecki released a group of white Pekin ducks to their lake several years ago. Unfortunately, Pekin Ducks cannot fly and are easy prey for predators. Occasionally, alligators make their way (via the Intercoastal Waterway) to the coastal wetlands. One by one, gators and coyotes slaughtered Buddy’s buddies. He was the only member of his flock who survived.

Next, I researched the dynamics of ducks and found many amazing attributes. They are intelligent, have complex social relationships and imprint for life. Domesticated ducks often imprint with their humans and develop a distinct pecking order amongst their peers. Ducks in the wild mate for life and do not need a pecking order. Moreover, according to an article in DFW Urban Wildlife, it is not uncommon for different breeds to become pairs. Hence, a Mallard and a Pekin can become dedicated to each other.

The rest of Buddy’s story is just my theory. Maybe he was domesticated as a duckling. Perhaps when his fowl family perished, he imprinted with Leibecki. Conceivably, Sidekick’s flock had too many females and was lonely for a partner. (It is true, ducks need other ducks.) Who knows? As Buddy and Sidekick’s friendship developed, they became the odd couple.

Since Buddy had already bonded with Leibecki and was the only domesticated duck, he secured the highest rank in the hierarchy. Even as ruler of the roost in his little domain, he was a leader. He guided the transitory waterfowl to free healthy food, personally purchased by his human for its nutritional value.

It was difficult to determine the moral of Buddy’s story. As I pondered that dilemma, I found an article written by Melissa Townsend, Co-Author of “Duck, Duck, There’s a Goose in the House,” that answered my question.

Townsend said, “There are leaders among the ducks and geese, but they didn’t get there through force. They are the ones that are the wisest, have raised families successfully and have the best personalities. They don’t force the other ducks or geese to do anything. This is how they live so peacefully together.”

Voilà! If only more humans would do the same.

A sincere thank you to Deb Leibecki, Buddy and Sidekick for illustrating peaceful coexistence and sharing their stories.

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CONFERENCE >> TEDXUF

REAL TALK

TED UF X

A Local Storyteller Conference W RIT TE N BY MICH A EL A MU LLIG A N P H OTO G R A P H Y P R O V I D E D B Y T E DX U F T E A M

H

annah Beatty often spends her nights awake thinking about everything TEDXUF. How can TED reach a wider audience? What if this goes wrong?

Or that?

But it’s all a part of her job as curator for TEDXUF’s 2020 conference. Preparations for this year’s event started last year in May, just a few months after the 2019 TEDXUF conference.

Chances are you’ve seen a TED Talk or two while scouring the depths of YouTube. There’s a talk for just about any topic you can think of, like the benefits of spam emails or how someone held their breath for 17 minutes.

However, the basics for storytelling and the emotions it evokes, are all there. That’s exactly what TEDXUF strives to achieve in Gainesville to a live audience.

It started back in 2010, and it’s been an annual local event ever since. Its general premise is the same as national TED conferences, but TEDXUF has a notable difference. It’s free.

This has become a conscious choice over the past few years. Each year,

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CONFERENCE >> TEDXUF

TEDXUF makes the choice to either charge for their conference or to make it free. Generally, the decision is unanimous to make it a free experience for those who want to partake. TEDXUF is a nonprofit that receives no money from its conferences and relies on the generosity of its donors and sponsors.

It is an independently organized event, but it does

technically an affiliate of the university. TED, the official organization, also does not give TEDXUF any funding. All funding comes from sponsors and donations. Beatty said that the sponsors come from all across UF’s campus as well as the community, because they believe in the capabilities of TEDXUF. TEDXUF will be held on March 15 at the Phillips

“I don’t believe that money should be a barrier to education or connection or community. I want people to have a stellar, special experience and not have to pay a penny for it.” have to follow TED rules to receive licensing.

Beatty, a University of Florida journalism senior, has her hand in nearly every aspect of the performances that the audience sees on stage, including choosing TEDXUF’s speakers and its engagement activities.

“I don’t believe that money should be a barrier to education or connection or community,” Beatty said.

“I want people to have a stellar, special experience and not have to pay a penny for it.”

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Center, where Beatty hopes to see around 1,500 people in attendance. The theme will be “Paradox.”

A word that the organization believes encapsulates Gainesville’s community. It’s a massive undertaking for an organization run almost entirely by college students. Beatty will spend the day running around and helping wherever she’s needed.

“I just want as many people as possible to be impacted by the talks that we’ve selected, as well as the hard work that our entire team has been planning for all year,” she said.

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given back in October. The speakers have been refining and honing their speeches since then, working on the best ways to convey their message. Some speakers spend months working on their speech and others spend months working on their delivery. A speaker’s experience with TEDXUF is tailored to their abilities and comfort levels, and they often meet with their coach every week or two.

They can meet in person, over video chat or simply work on a google document together to edit his or her speech. It’s all about keeping the constant connection, which in the end is TEDXUF’s entire goal. To connect.

“Last year, we had a speaker who was in Antarctica for a period of time,” Beatty said.

“Her speaker coach had to meet with her virtually, so it just depends on that speaker’s experience.”

For months before TEDXUF’s main March conference, the team puts on salons.

TEDXUF salons get its name from the 18th century when salons were a common place to discuss issues with intellectual thinkers.

Now, TED has incorporated salons into its

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The entire TEDXUF team is comprised of over 50 members, all with different jobs and working within different teams. Each year there are generally around five to six teams, that range from a speaking team to performance coordinators. Beatty and Apeksha Labroo, TEDXUF’s executive director, began taking applications for speakers in July and applications closed in August. After the applications closed, Beatty and Labroo interviewed speakers, and from that pool, they chose their 2020 lineup.

Included in those speakers this year is Taylor Williams, who has previously served as a host to the event. Williams is the owner and creator of Guts & Glory GNV, a company that brings polished storytelling to the local area.

“What an opportunity to actually give a talk,” Williams said. “It’s been a huge challenge, and my speaker coach has been doing great. Just the whole experience has been awesome.”

Each chosen speaker is paired with a speaker coach based on a compatibility test

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CONFERENCE >> TEDXUF

TEDXUF hosts salons besides their annual event. The salons, like their main conference, is free and used to promote community engagement. This salon, held on Feb. 1, was entitled “Our Digital Conscience,” and explored the relationships between people and technology.

programming, along with its conferences. On Feb. 1, TEDXUF held a salon at Flow Space, entitled “TEDXUFSalon: Our Digital Conscience.”

The salons are a way to promote community engagement, Beatty said. TEDXUF conferences are a place to be taught and guided in smaller discussions in-between talks. Salons allow for more community engagement and for new ideas to be presented to those who are in attendance.

A major reason that every TEDXUF event is free is because of discounts and donations from local partners like Flow Space.

Alexander Kane, TEDXUF’s operations manager, said that the relationships and partnerships TEDXUF cultivates has led to more community opportunities. In exchange for access to Flow Space’s studio, TEDXUF will be volunteering to repaint some of their studio.

“We’re basically going to help them out,” Kane said. “We give them a bit of money but like not even close to what they normally ask for, and then we give them advertising space.”

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A goal of TEDXUF is community outreach, which is achieved through its conference and salons, but also through its volunteer work. The organization has volunteered at places such as the Cade Museum, the Repurpose Project, and Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary. Part of the reason the organization volunteers is to get the TEDXUF name out into the community, but it’s also to serve the community it calls home.

“Our entire focus is serving the community,” Kane said. “So if we’re not volunteering, then I feel like we’re missing out on a part of what we can be doing.”

TEDXUF’s main goal is to breed discussion and community.

The importance of storytelling comes into focus through passionate speakers who hope to spark dialogue on a certain topic.

“I think people only see storytelling as being on that ‘red dot’ and speaking to a large audience, but it’s also about talking interpersonally and sharing our backgrounds and values,” Beatty said. “So I hope that large scale and small scale storytelling happens at the conference on March 15.”

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42

COMMUNITY EVENT >> FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

BOOK IT!

AN EVENT THAT BENEFITS THE ALACHUA COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT

Friends of the Library W R ITTEN BY STEPH A NIE R ICH A R DS

The Friends of the Library (FOL) was formed in the summer of 1954 when Adelaide Harris invited several people to get together and organize the group.

By the fall, the organization had 563 members and was on its way to “wake up the community to the need for improved library funding and services,” according to a FOL commemorative brochure.

Today, the nonprofit organization promotes a greater interest in and use of the library’s services facilities and needs and provides resources for some of its initiatives and programs. In addition, it sponsors scholarship awards to library staff to continue education, and advocates for issues of library legislation. It also administers gifts that benefit the Alachua County Library District, such as memorials from individuals and corporations.

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With no paid staff, the organization relies entirely on volunteers. According to a 2018 interview, FOL currently has 350 members, with about 150 working at least one, three-hour shift weekly. Some volunteers work just book sales, where a variety of tasks are needed from breaking down boxes to replenishing shelves to relieving others for a break. All volunteers attend a three-hour training session. A common theme among volunteers is their joy of reading and desire to have others in the community grab a hold of their passion.

In its inaugural year in 1954, the Friends of the Library held its first book sale raising $80. A few years later, it made its first donation of $600 to the Alachua County Library to assist

in purchasing and installing folding doors for the children’s area in the new “1956” library, according to the FOL website.

In contrast, today’s book sales are exponentially larger and include 500,000 items in more than 60 categories of books and materials. Usually held in April and October, book lovers can find items in almost any category including art, children and young adult, biography and non-fiction, cookbooks, classics, general fiction, large print, music, mystery, poetry, sports, science fiction, romance, pets, travel, and religion. Educational materials are also available in a variety of subjects, including medicine, nursing, engineering, math and foreign languages. Inventory also includes comic books and manga, audio books, CDs, DVDs, vinyl records, and games and puzzles.

There is a Collector’s Corner at each sale with all topics and titles, including first editions, signed and rare books, Florida authors, vintage publications and vinyl records, maps, children’s books, and special interest from motorcycles to Harry Potter. To assist customers, the FOL provides a floor map with the various sections.

The FOL relies on the community to provide donations of books and other items and accepts them on an on-going basis. As the community has come to know FOL, they generously donate items no longer needed to FOL’s inventory. Not only do these items get a new life, but their sales benefit the Alachua County library district.

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www.folacld.org | 352-375-1676

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44

COLUMN

CRYSTAL HENRY’S

Naked Salsa THE JERK OF A CURSOR & THE DAUNTING WHITE CANVAS

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

AS A WRITER, ONE OF THE BIGGEST THINGS PEOPLE LIKE TO SHARE WITH ME IS THEIR OWN WRITING AMBITIONS.

of a deadline. That is the high I actually chase. It’s also probably part of the reason I wait up until the last second to get anything turned in. The size of the rush of unloading the words is directly proportionate to how long I procrastinate.

Staring at a blank Word doc is the most nerve-wracking f I had a nickel for every time someone told me part of my job. Sometimes I’ll just start typing random letters “You know I’ve always wanted to write a book,” or “blah blah blah this is stupid blah” just so my page isn’t so I would have more royalties than I’ve made selling my stark white. It’s honestly offensive to stare at that miserable little own books. cursor just blinking and mocking me. All I hear is “Seriously, I truly do love that people want to share their writing goals no one cares.” with me, but I rarely have the heart to tell them I just don’t Writing is labor intensive, and it’s very often thankless. As a share them. It’s really bizarre to me that people have a desire to newspaper reporter I’ve written so many birdcage liner articles write. Like they think it’s somehow fun. Although I’m a writer by I should probably invest in the parakeet market. So many of my trade, and I love my job, I don’t really love to write. I’ve actually stories never see the light of day because they’re just a garbage never in my life wanted to write a book. My own book just sort pile of word vomit. of happened because I’d been writing this column for

But then every once in a while there are the too long, and my former editors told me to grab ones that sneak up, grab my heart and pull Staring at a a bunch of it together into a syndicated mess. it up through my throat while I’m in the I wasn’t even creative enough to come up blank Word doc is the middle of a sentence. Once in a blue moon, with a new title for my ramblings, so it’s most nerve-wracking part I’ll start writing a column, and halfway literally just called “Naked Salsa.” Super of my job. Sometimes I’ll through I’ll start sobbing because the creative right? just start typing random act of letting my thoughts flow wrenches It’s also weird to me how many people letters or “blah blah blah some deep emotions I’ve been pushing think their lives are interesting enough this is stupid blah” just so down past that voice that says “no one for a book. They think their crazy family my page isn’t so cares.” I’ll start out writing a snarky obserstories would make a real page-turner. And stark white. vation and end up in a puddle of tears thinking truthfully I could listen to wacky family stories I’ve really written something good — something all day because they’re hilarious and relatable.

I’m proud to put out into the world. And more often But I’ve just never had that kind of confidence in my than not, those are the stories I start out thinking “no one really own tales. I’ve never felt like I really had anything notable to cares,” and I end up hearing “that column had me laughing and say. Even when people tell me they enjoyed my column, I’m sobbing. Thank you for that. I needed it.” always curious if they actually found it interesting or if they’re So to all those aspiring writers I say just stick it to that little just being supportive. jerk of a cursor and its daunting white canvas. Put those funny It’s not that I don’t think everyone would love to hear about a grandmother stories to paper and share them with the world. grandmother who had silly sayings and shenanigans. I just don’t And feel free to tell me about it and share. I will encourage you think anyone would want to hear about my grandmother and all day long, and I’ll be the first to buy a copy of your book. But her shenanigans. I was honestly surprised anyone wanted to write for yourself. It doesn’t matter if you think no one will care read about my mundane musings in Naked Salsa. So I’ve never or if you know everyone will. Writing — good writing — isn’t for wanted to pen an original book full of tales. anyone but the bravest of souls who have the courage to get it It’s not that I hate writing in totality, but I don’t love the out of their hearts and onto a page. process. I only love the feeling I get after unloading the burden

I

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46

HISTORY >> FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS

FAB FOUR

Florida’s Female Pioneers Four Women Who Shaped the State W R IT TE N BY PEGGY M AC DON A LD

I

n the 21st century, the term “Florida woman” has become synonymous with jaw-dropping crime stories that make the Sunshine State a laughing stock. In the 19th and 20th centuries, however, Florida women made national headlines by achieving historic firsts in leadership, civil rights, medicine, education and literature.

This overview highlights the careers of four women who made Florida modern.

Dr. Esther Hill Hawks In 1857, Dr. Esther Hill Hawks graduated from the New England Female Medical College, the first medical school for women in the United States and possibly the world. Nonetheless, opportunities for graduates of this pioneering school were limited. After the Civil War began, Dr. Hawks applied for a position as an army surgeon with the Union Army. Staunch abolitionists, Dr. Hawks and her husband, Dr. John Milton Hawks, were determined to contribute to the Union cause. Milton received an appointment as an army surgeon, but Esther was turned down due to her gender. She applied for a nursing position but was rejected due to Superintendent of Nurses Dorothea Dix’s policy that prevented women under 35 from serving as nurses in the Union Army.

After the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863, Esther and Milton Hawks moved to Beaufort, South Carolina, where Milton was stationed at Hospital No. 10, which treated the Union Army’s first officially recognized black troops, the First South Carolina Volunteers. Dr.

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Dr. Esther Hill Hawks

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HISTORY >> FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS

Dr. Esther Hill Hawks taught at a school at Hospital No. 10 that was similar to this Freedmen’s Bureau school in South Carolina.

Hawks taught with the National Freedman’s Relief Association.

Many of the letters she wrote while working with freedmen and their families from South Carolina and Florida were published in 1984 in “A Woman Doctor’s Civil War,” edited

by Gerald Schwartz.

In addition to teaching, Dr. Hawks unofficially served as the chief physician at Hospital No. 10 when Milton was on a secret mission to Florida. At the Battle of Olustee—Florida’s only major Civil War battle— she treated wounded African American soldiers from the Fifty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers. In her letters, she expressed her doubt that she would have been permitted to practice medicine in a military hospital or at the battlefront if her patients had been white.

When the Civil War ended, Dr. Hawks and her husband wanted to continue their work with freedmen. They relocated to Volusia County, where Milton established the Florida Land and Lumber Company and purchased land near Daytona Beach, including extensive orange groves. Homesteads were secured for freedmen’s families 48 |

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from South Carolina and Florida. Milton named the freedman’s colony they established with other former Union Army officers Port Orange. Dr. Hawks established the first interracial school in Florida—and probably the nation—in Union-occupied Jacksonville. She left the school after facing resistance to the idea of integrated learning and opened a new interracial school in Port Orange. The freedmen’s colony encountered a variety of challenges, however, and many freedmen’s families moved elsewhere.

In 1869, locals torched the integrated school Dr. Hawks founded. She returned to the North and established a medical practice in Lynn, Mass. Milton continued to devote himself to what became known as the community of Hawks Park, which he promoted as a “New England Village on the Atlantic Coast of South Florida.” Dr. Hawks wintered with Milton in Hawks Park and they spent summers together in Lynn. Dr. Hawks was elected an honorary member of the New Hampshire Association of Military Surgeons before her death in 1906. Hawks Park was later renamed Edgewater.

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HISTORY >> FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS

Harriet Beecher Stowe Harriet Beecher Stowe and her husband, Calvin, were another abolitionist couple that purchased an orange grove in northeast Florida. President Abraham Lincoln credited Stowe’s 1852 anti-slavery book, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” with igniting the Civil War. From 1867 through 1884, Stowe wintered at her former cotton plantation and orange grove in Mandarin on the St. Johns River. The natural setting inspired her 1873 book “Palmetto Leaves,” which kick-started Florida’s tourism industry.

Stowe called Florida a “perpetual flower-garden” and referred to oranges as “golden apples.” Stowe and other 19th century travel writers described Florida as an Edenic paradise filled with exotic flora and fauna. Her writing attracted Florida’s first snowbirds, who arrived in north Florida in droves.

Aside from St. Augustine, Florida remained relatively undeveloped under Spanish rule. In 1860, steamboat entrepreneur Hubbard L. Hart offered steamboat tours of Florida’s unspoiled subtropical paradise along the Ocklawaha River on the way to Silver Springs. In Palmetto Leaves, Harriet Beecher Stowe asserted that the Hart Line’s specially made Ocklawaha steamers looked like gigantic coffins.

Hart later invested in the construction of more comfortable steamboats and perfected marketing schemes to maximize profits during snowbird season.

Harriet Beecher Stowe at her home in Mandarin.

(Photos courtesy of Matheson History Museum)

From 1867 through 1884, Stowe wintered at her former cotton plantation and orange grove in Mandarin on the St. Johns River.

Northern tourists posed for portraits on board the Osceola and other steamers before taking daytime or evening tours to marvel at the Florida wilderness and shoot at native birds and alligators. Stowe’s successful Florida writing attracted not only tourists but also future writers such as Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, whose Cross Creek orange grove inspired her Pulitzer Prize-winning book, “The Yearling.”

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HISTORY >> FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS

Mary McLeod Bethune with students from the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, which she founded in 1904. The school later merged with the Cookman Institute and is now known as Bethune-Cookman University.

Bethune was nine years old, she could pick 250 pounds of cotton per day, making her labor extremely valuable to her family’s financial wellbeing. Nonetheless, Bethune dreamed of going to school. She

her graduation in 1895, however, Bethune learned from the Presbyterian Missionary Board that black people were prevented from working as missionaries in Africa.

In 1904, Bethune opened the Daytona

In 1904, Bethune opened the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, which later merged with Jacksonville’s Cookman Institute and became coeducational.

Mary McLeod Bethune Like Dr. Esther Hill Hawks before her, Mary McLeod Bethune moved to Florida to establish a school. As a young girl, Bethune was not able to attend school.

The 15th of 17 children born to previously enslaved parents, she was the first in her family to be born free.

Education was a luxury Bethune’s family could not afford. By the time 52 |

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pleaded with her family to let her attend a Presbyterian mission school when it opened near her home, and she became the first in her family to learn how to read.

Next, she taught her younger sisters how to read and then her older sisters.

Bethune continued her education as an adult, attending the first institute of higher education for African American women—Scotia Seminary in Concord, North Carolina, which was established after the Civil War—and Moody Bible College in Chicago. Her dream was to live in Africa as a missionary. Soon after

Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, which later merged with Jacksonville’s Cookman Institute and became coeducational. The school changed its name to Bethune-Cookman College in 1931 to honor its founder.

Bethune was one of a small number of women who served as a college president in the early 20th century.

In addition to establishing a college that has produced generations of black college graduates, Bethune has a strong civil rights legacy. Among other triumphs, she used her clout in the Daytona Beach

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HISTORY >> FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS

community to challenge Jim Crowera restrictions on recreation. In the college’s early years, students at Bethune-Cookman were not allowed to swim at Daytona Beach.

Florida’s beaches were reserved for white people only. Bethune came up with a clever solution. She and several associates purchased land at what became known as Bethune Beach to provide African Americans with a place to swim and enjoy the beach. Along with Jacksonville’s American Beach and Butler Beach near St. Augustine, Bethune Beach was one of the few beaches in the state that African Americans were permitted to visit.

This year, a 9-foot marble statue honoring Bethune is scheduled to replace Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith’s statue at the National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. It will be the first statue of an African American woman to be located inside Statuary Hall.

Betty Mae Tiger Jumper Labeled a “half-breed” because her mother was Seminole and her father was French, Betty Mae Tiger Jumper’s family had to relocate to a federal reservation to prevent an attempt on the life of Jumper and her brother, Howard. In “A Seminole Legend,” an autobiography she wrote with the collaboration of historian Patsy West, Jumper explained why the move was necessary. “Other half-breed children had been killed by their grandmothers or aunts, who threw them in muddy rivers or canals to drown,” Jumper said. “I had a baby cousin who was drowned in Ft. Lauderdale just three years before I was born.”

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HISTORY >> FLORIDA FEMALE PIONEERS

Conditions on the reservation were far from ideal, however.

Basic services, schools and healthcare were subpar. Jumper became one of the first Seminoles to receive a formal education, attending a Quaker-run Cherokee boarding school in North Carolina. “I learned how to live in a new world,” she recounted in the autobiography. “I watched everything they did and said.

If I didn’t understand, they would repeat it until I caught on.”

Jumper is best known for becoming the first and only female Florida Seminole tribal chair, a position she was elected to in 1967 when she was 44. Moreover, she was the first female tribal chair of any American Indian tribe.

President Nixon appointed Jumper to the National Council on Indian Opportunity. In 1984, she became editor-in-chief of the Seminole Tribune, transforming it into one of the nation’s top Native American newspapers. A decade later, Florida State University awarded her an honorary doctorate of humane letters, the accomplishment she was proudest of, according to Patsy West.

Jumper’s legacy lives on. The Betty Mae Tiger Jumper Medical Center is under construction near the Seminole Classic Casino at the Hollywood reservation. According to the Seminole Tribune, the hospital will be able to withstand Category 5 hurricane winds and is expected to be completed in spring 2020.

Peggy Macdonald will discuss these and other examples of Florida’s female pioneers at the Matheson History Museum at 7 p.m. on March 12. The talk is free and open to the public.

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Finish Strong For concrete floors – whether it’s a floor in your garage or a fire station, having a durable epoxy coating can improve the look and life of your space for years to come.

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that says “look at me”! Depending on which application you choose, you can select from a variety of understated solid colors and hues, to custom colors and blends of color flakes that match your style.

“We work with our clients to create something that suits their needs and looks beautiful,” said Chad Williamson owner of All Phase CPI, Inc. “With a variety of colors and textures to choose from, no two floors are exactly the same.”

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Epoxy is an actual thermosetting resin that is applied as a coating. It is formed when you mix one part epoxide resin with one part polyamine hardener. The hardener acts as a catalyst and is what gives epoxy its strength. Unlike paint that has to dry, epoxy actually cures. When the two parts are mixed, a chemical reaction is started which creates an exothermic curing process. This curing process produces polymer structures that are closely cross-linked giving epoxy its superior strength and durability.

The end result is a coating that is much thicker than paint and bonds tenaciously to a properly prepared surface.

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58

TRADITIONS >> EASTER EXPLANATIONS

FUNN Y BUNN Y

EXPLORE SOME OF THE HOLIDAY’S MOST EGGCELLENT TRADITIONS

Easter Egg Explanations W R ITTEN BY CA MERON COBB

If you’ve glanced over a 2020 calendar, you’ve likely already discovered that Easter Sunday takes place on April 12 this year. However, do you know how the springtime celebration began?

Back in the 2nd century, the earliest recorded celebration of the Easter holiday took place, according to britannica.com, though it likely didn’t include colorfully competitive egg hunts and oversized, gift-giving bunnies.

The Christian holiday is based on celebrating the belief of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which the New Testament of the Bible says happened three days after Christ’s crucifixion, according to history.com. In the standard Christian calendar, Easter comes after Lent, which traditionally revolves around fasting and performing acts of penance for 40 days (other than Sundays).

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Various branches of Christianity may commemorate Easter in different ways. For instance, certain Eastern Orthodox divisions within the Christian religion consider Easter Sunday to mark the start of ‘Pascha’ (the Greek word for Easter) with this season lasting 40 days and finishing with what’s known as the ‘Feast of the Ascension.’ Additionally, for some Protestant Christians, Easter Sunday is the beginning of ‘Eastertide’ (the Easter Season), which ends 50 days after Easter on ‘Pentecost Sunday.’

Though the holiday is typically associated with Christianity, there are several key components of Easter that reflect different

elements from other religions (such as pagan and Jewish traditions). For example, there are many links between ‘The Last Supper’ and the Jewish holiday of ‘Passover,’ and according to history.com, “The Last Supper was essentially a Passover feast.”

So, where do the eggs come in?

Surprisingly, the first recorded painting and decorating of eggs for Easter occurred as far back as the 13th century, according to britannica.com. While the church didn’t allow for its followers to eat eggs during ‘Holy Week’ (the annual Christian observance honoring Christ’s final week on Earth and the events that led up to his resurrection on Easter Sunday), it turns out chickens didn’t get the memo and — regardless of religious customs — continued to lay them.

Just as Christ was recognized for rising from the tomb, eggs then became a symbol for the emergence of new life and thus, the resurrection. The actual egg-dyeing ritual was meant to represent the blood of Christ, and in the Orthodox tradition, eggs are actually colored red to signify the blood shed on the cross.

Okay, that explains the eggs... but the bunny?

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During the 17th century, rabbits first became associated with Easter thanks to the German tradition of the ‘Easter Hare,’ which surprises good children with the gift of eggs, according to theconversation. com. Hares and rabbits are known for their thriving fertility and a breeding season that typically begins in spring, meaning these animals naturally made an impression around the holiday’s time. Though the idea took another 200 years or so to really catch on, eventually the ‘Easter Bunny’ figure was thought to lay, decorate and hide the eggs during the annual celebration. In America, this escalated into the mythical mammal bringing baskets filled with candy and toys for children to find on Easter morning. And so we continue to celebrate alongside the Easter Bunny.

Apparently, this springtime holiday means no one seems to question the logistics of an animal’s abilities… so long as it involves leaving goodies!

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FIVE HARE-Y SPECIAL EASTER FACTS TO MAKE YOU AN EGGSPERT THIS HOLIDAY: 1) Did you know that during the Easter holiday, Americans spend nearly 20 BILLION dollars annually? For 2019, research estimated the nation devoted $2.5 billion just to Easter candy alone!

This included roughly 1.5 billion Marshmallow Peeps, 16 billion jelly beans and 91 million chocolate bunnies (with over half of consumers noting that the ears should be eaten first).

2) While the overwhelming quantity of candy in itself makes for an impressive Easter statistic, it’s the staggering sizes of these treats that really shows true holiday dedication. Crafted in Italy, the largest chocolate Easter egg ever created weighed a whopping 15,873 pounds — almost as much as an adult male elephant! Brazil’s to credit for the world’s biggest chocolate bunny, which towered almost 15 feet in height and weighed over 9,300 pounds.

3) Outside of sweets, research determined that 180 million eggs and over 10 million egg-dyeing kits are purchased in America every year during the holiday, with nearly 80% of families claiming to decorate eggs for Easter.

4) But what’s a colored egg if it isn’t destined to be hidden? Last year, more than 30,000 guests were estimated to have attended the White House’s 141st annual Easter Egg Roll — but that’s not the country’s biggest egg-centered celebration. In 2007, Cypress Gardens Adventure Park in Winter Haven, Florida, hosted the world’s largest Easter egg hunt — featuring more than 500,000 eggs!

N e w n! ti o

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5) Beyond the commercial aspects of the holiday, Easter was discovered to be the most popular day for attending church (followed by Christmas Eve).

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HOLIDAY >> LOCAL EASTER EVENTS

BUNN Y DAY

Easter Events Ten Local Ways to Celebrate W R I T T E N B Y D A N A B R YA N

E

aster celebrations are an integral part of the spring season. Whether your festivites involve hunting for colorful eggs or attending a Sunday church service, this is one holiday the whole family is sure to enjoy. Here are 10 events where friends and families can celebrate Easter this year!

1. Ginnie Springs Camping and Easter Egg Hunt 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643 On April 12, Ginnie Springs will be hosting a land and water egg hunt.

There will be over 7,000 eggs filled with toys, candy and Easter-themed knickknacks. The land egg hunt is for children ages 1-11 years old. Kids 5 and under get in free. The land egg hunt begins at 10 a.m. and individuals will meet at the general store. For teenagers (ages 12-16), there will be a water egg hunt at the Ginnie Springs deck. Individuals will go snorkeling, competing to find underwater eggs with total prizes valued at over $1,000.

2. Easter Sunday Vintage Waltz 720 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609 From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Rena’s Ballroom during the third week of April, Richard Nalli will be hosting and teaching the vintage waltz. A free introductory lesson will begin at 1:30 p.m., and a partner is not required. The vintage waltz is the archaic version of the waltz before technical ballroom skills were set into place. “It’s the most social version of the waltz and really anyone can learn it,” Nalli said. General admission is $10, but if you are a student or this is your first lesson, then the price is reduced to $5.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: THALIA RESINOS

3. Greenhouse Church Easter Sunday Service 250 Gale Lemerand Dr, Gainesville, FL 32611 With bunnies, eggs and candy, it can be easy to forget the reason for the season. On Easter Sunday, go to the Stephen O’Connell Center, where Greenhouse Church will be hosting a massive Easter Sunday service. The arena will be filled with families and friends listening to the preacher talk about how Easter came to be. The church is non-denominational. All ages, genders, races and religions are welcome to join. Check their website for updates on specific times: greenhousechurch.org.

4. O2B Kids Supercenter Easter Eggstravaganza 6680 W Newberry Rd, Gainesville, FL 32605 At 10 a.m. on April 11, O2B Kids will have egg hunts, carnival games, face painting and bounce houses for the public to enjoy in celebration of Easter. The egg hunt will have three golden eggs waiting for children in the age ranges 0-2, 3-5 and 6-13 to discover. The golden egg winners will receive a special prize.

Previous prizes included a Slip ‘n Slide and the newest, kidfriendly toys. The doors will open at 9:30 a.m. The event is free for members and $15 for non-members.

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HOLIDAY >> LOCAL EASTER EVENTS

5. Easter Celebration at the Pentecostals of Gainesville Church 8105 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606 On April 12 at 10 a.m., the Pentecostals Gainesville Church will be holding a classic Easter Sunday service. For 2 hours, sit down, relax and listen to the origin story of Easter. Smaller than an arena but big enough to still have a seat for you, this church welcomes everyone from the community to enter and enjoy the message of Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Service typically ends at noon.

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6. Spring Arts Festival Downtown Gainesville; on Northeast First Street from Northeast Eighth Avenue to Northeast Second Avenue Some prefer a more subtle Easter season. If that’s the case, two weeks before Easter (Mar. 28-29), the Spring Arts Festival will be in Downtown Gainesville showcasing work from artists across the country. Budding artists will have the chance to exhibit their work in the young artists area. You might even see a drawing of the Easter

bunny. There will be two stages with live performances and about 15 food vendors. The “Spark of Art”—a newly named children’s area—will have children’s entertainment, crafts and face painting.

7. Kids of Grace Annual Egg Hunt 9325 W Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL 32606 On April 4 at 1 p.m., there will be bounce houses, outdoor games, prizes and an egg hunt at the Grace at Fort Clarke United Methodist Church. Admission is

free and all ages are welcome. For older kids, there will be a special glow-in-the-dark egg hunt, where kids can seek out glowing eggs to discover a treat inside. Between running around outside and jumping up and down inside (the bounce house), children will fall in love with Easter even more.

8. Celebration United Methodist Church Easter morning service 9501 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608 For a smaller and more intimate Easter Sunday service, there is the Celebration United Methodist Church. The standard Easter service will be held on April 12. The church is family-centered and hopes to be a beacon of light to the local community, especially during Easter. They welcome everyone to worship the Lord with them on Easter Sunday.

9. United Church of Gainesville Easter Egg Hunt 1624 NW 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32603 On Easter Sunday, the United Church of Gainesville will have three morning Easter services. There will be services beginning at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. After service, there will be hundreds of eggs hiding and waiting for children to take home. However, make sure to get there early because these eggs typically don’t stay hidden for long.

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10. Waldo Farmers and Flea Market 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt 17805 US-301, Waldo, FL 32694 Less than 30 minutes from UF campus, the annual Waldo Easter Egg Hunt has become a community favorite. There will be thousands of eggs packed with candy, trinkets and other prizes. In recent years, special scavenger hunt eggs have led participators to fun prizes like goldfish, arrowheads and plant seedlings. A date and time have not yet been confirmed, but check their website to stay informed: waldofleamarket.com.

So hop to it and begin preparing for an eventful Easter. From morning services to midday bounce houses, it looks like Easter will be nothing short of eggcellent this year!  March/April 2020

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BOOK REVIEW

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner WHEN WE’RE 64: YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT LATER LIFE

written by Louise Ansari C.2019, GREEN TREE / BLOOMSBURY, $18.00/$24.50 CANADA, 200 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

THERE WAS A LOT OF FIRE ON YOUR LAST BIRTHDAY CAKE.

T

he wits in your family made a big show of “bring an extinguisher tableside (ha ha).” but you do have to admit that the candle power really was impressive. It reminded you that you’re not getting any younger, but with “When We’re 64” by Louise Ansari, you can prepare to kindle the next phase of your life.

So when will you die?

That’s not such an odd question. It’s something you’ve no doubt thought about and for most of us, the good news is that we’re “likely to live longer than [we] think.” Life expectancies have been on the rise for decades, so how can you make your decades the best?

There are, says Ansari, many “keys to a great later life.”

First, she says, “Keep working.” If you like your job, downsize your hours instead of retiring fully, or find a part-time job in another industry that intrigues you. This helps keep your mind sharp for new things. Volunteer, if you can’t find the right job; working a free gig might open some surprising doors.

Stay healthy, don’t smoke, lose weight, eat right and don’t skip doctor’s visits. Also get out and socialize, but remember that relationships with peers, family, and romantic interests may change as you age.

Gently urge others to stop using “young lady,” “old fogey,” and other negative terms, and take “ageist” words and phrases out of your own vocabulary. Strive to be upbeat, and learn to

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“respond more positively” to change; studies show that keeping a happy mindset could add more than seven years to your life!

Finally, the elephant in the room: know that it’s never too late to start saving. Try to figure out how much money you’ll need to fully retire, and familiarize yourself with federal laws relating to Social Security. Know where you’ll want to live, and factor that into your financial spreadsheet — and on that note, make sure your home is appropriate for you for as long as you want to stay there.

While “When We’re 64” seems meant for time-blessed 50-somethings that are squinting at faraway retirement, it’s possible that if you’re a 60- or 70-something who can translate while reading, you’ll still find takeaways here. Yes, author Louise Ansari wrote this book expressly for residents of Great Britain, which means there are policy differences and unique terms in some chapters but it’s not a terrible stretch to recalibrate for stateside situations.

Those are minor issues, compared to the one that truly may turn readers away, which is that this book is a lot like the other several hundred retirement books on shelves already. Don’t misunderstand: it’s a helpful thing, but if you’ve read two other retirement-advice-type books, you’ve read this one, too.

You haven’t started planning, though? Then it’s a good start because it’s filled with soft challenges, simple ideas, and do-able tips. If retirement prep is all new to you, “When We’re 64” could get you fired up.

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THEATRE >> HIGH SPRINGS PLAYHOUSE

THE PLAY’S THE THING

High Springs Playhouse Connecting the Community through Theatrical Storytelling W RIT TE N BY S UMMER JA R RO P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y E M I LY F E LT S

J

ennifer Applebee joined the High Springs Playhouse on a whim.

One day she heard that the playhouse was working on performing the play “Lend Me a Tenor” and soon after found herself auditioning for the play. She was not cast in the show, but instead was asked if she wanted to be the stage director. Applebee along with her children ended up helping out with the production.

“From that experience on it was pretty evident to me that this was just such a homey, comfortable, encouraging environment full of knowledge from these individuals who — some of them worked professionally in theater or maybe are retired,” Applebee said.

She immediately got hooked. Today, Applebee is the technical director of the playhouse and helps with its marketing and publicity.

The High Springs Playhouse opened in 1993, offering stage performances to the High Springs community and surrounding areas. “It’s just a way to bring theatre to

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small towns,” said Julie Tucker, artistic director at the High Springs Playhouse. It is a nonprofit organization that puts on different performances with the help of volunteers. These volunteers produce each season by participating as actors, directors and ‘behind-the-scenes’ stagehands, operating the lights and more.

The playhouse puts on five productions each year and an additional production through its summer youth program. The theatre performs well-known shows and sometimes even original works. Past productions the High Springs Playhouse has put on include “The Savannah Sipping Society,” “Sylvia,” “Rumors,” “For the Love of Mike” and “Jungle Book.”

The High Springs Playhouse first hosted its performances at the New Century Women’s Club. Since 2002, the playhouse has been producing shows at its current location of 130 NE 1st Ave. “We think art and bringing the community together for live theatre is definitely something that we want to nurture and foster and bring to as many people as

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THEATRE >> HIGH SPRINGS PLAYHOUSE

possible,” Applebee said. “The playhouse is a small venue. It’s kind of an intimate connection with volunteer actors, the story we’re trying to tell as well as the patrons. And it’s just a safe environment

and “On Borrowed Time” written by Paul Osborn.

The playhouse chooses its lineup of shows by accepting submissions. It has a selection committee made up of community residents, volunteers

The summer youth program is a hands-on learning experience where children are taught different facets of theatre by experienced volunteers. to express and bring the beauty that is theatre to as many people as we can.”

The playhouse’s season begins in October. It is currently in its 27th year with performances for each of the shows at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays.

So far, for the 2019-2020 season, the playhouse has put on performances of “A Party to Murder” written by Marcia Kash and Douglas E. Hughes, “Scrooge Macbeth” written by David MacGregors, 70 |

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and board members who review work submitted and choose shows they feel patrons would enjoy.

Original work is also accepted. The selections then go through the board and the season is officially compiled.

The playhouse’s next show is “Hallelujah Girls,” which will run from April 3 to April 26. Tucker will be directing the show. The play is about five women who are going through the death of one of their good friends. Due to the tragic event they decide it’s time

for them to start thinking about living and they go out and try to do new things in their lives, Tucker said.

The women decide they are going to get together, buy an abandoned church building and turn it into a day spa, however, conflict arises. “It’s just a nonstop kind of ‘laugh until the end’ with these strong characters,” Applebee said.

Tucker presented the play to the selection committee. “To me, when I go to a play I like to laugh and feel good when I leave,” she said. “When I read the script, it made me laugh and it made me feel good.”

Tucker hopes audiences get enjoyment out of the show.

“Maybe [they’ll] even laugh a little bit at themselves,” she said. “Maybe see a little bit of themselves in the characters and possibly make some changes themselves.”

After “Hallelujah Girls,” the playhouse will put on “Anne of Green Gables,” adapted by Peter DeLaurier. It will run from June 5 to June 28. For the summer youth program, the playhouse will perform “Little Women,” which is based on the book by Louisa May Alcott. The summer youth program is a hands-on learning experience where children are taught different facets of theatre March/April 2020

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THEATRE >> HIGH SPRINGS PLAYHOUSE

by experienced volunteers. Those who sign up for the program put on the entire show with the help of the volunteers.

“This is just kind of a wonderful opportunity, so we encourage anybody who doesn’t have summer plans already to check that out for their kids,” Applebee said. “It’s just a great opportunity to learn live theatre and what it takes to run it. It is quite a lot more time intensive and involved than most people realize.”

Youth can sign up to do stage directing, lighting, acting, directing and more. The program is for children and young adults usually between the ages of 10 and 18. “Being able to involve some of the younger members like the children, it’s 72 |

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encouraging a strong community,” Applebee said.

The High Springs Playhouse currently has its lineup prepared for its 2021 season. This includes productions of “Dracula,” “A Tuna Christmas,” “Barefoot in the Park,” “Farce of Nature” and for the first time in several years a musical performance, “Giligan’s Island: The Musical.”

The playhouse is currently accepting submissions of plays to put together its following season and also looking for more volunteers. “We welcome everyone,” Tucker said. “It’s a wonderful way to get to know some other people in your community, and we have a lot of fun doing it.”

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LIVE MUSIC >> WESTFEST

MUSIC TO MY EARS

NEWBERRY’S CONCERT FOR THE COMMUNITY

WestFest W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U CCO L A

April in Newberry brings sun-soaked spring weather, blooming flowers and melody-chirping birds — an ideal combination for enjoying an outdoor concert with friends and family and an experience made possible with the city of Newberry’s annual WestFest music festival.

“WestFest started because we wanted to have something to kind of give back to our community,” Travis Parker, the director of recreation for the City of Newberry, said in a recent phone interview.

The concept was to encourage community members to visit their local parks, relax on a blanket draped over the grass or a comfy lawn chair and enjoy food from an array of vendors while listening to some amazing music.

This year marks the fourth year of the festival as well as the 74 |

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125th anniversary of Newberry’s city status. What better way to celebrate such a milestone than with a memorable headliner with local ties to the community?

Sister Hazel dominated radio airwaves in 1997 with their alternative-rock hit “All for You,” and they’ve continued their musical prowess ever since while reinforcing Gainesville’s tradition of being the birthplace of rock icons.

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and they don’t get to play many concerts here,” Parker said.

Though Sister Hazel’s homecoming will be the highlight of the event, WestFest will feature four other musicians, which will give music lovers the chance to discover other local artists.

“We do like to stick to having some local artists because there are some awesome ones here who don’t get to play like this,” he said. “So again, you know, just the ‘giving back’ side of it.”

Aside from bringing a group of talented musicians together for the night, WestFest is planning on making this year’s show bigger and better than ever before by incorporating a laser light show into the set.

“I think the laser light show is gonna be really cool,” Parker said. “I think that’s gonna be something that’s definitely different than what we’ve done in the past, and every year we look to improve everything we do.”

Though the details on performers and activities are still being finalized, one thing’s for sure — this year’s WestFest is planning to be the best one yet. “ We want to make it the ultimate local show where people in April say, ‘We want to come to Newberry. We want to see what WestFest’s got going this year,’ that’s really our thing.”

WestFest will take place on Saturday, April 18 from 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Thee Mines: 28957 W. Newberry Rd. Newberry, FL 32669. For up-to-date information, visit the WestFest website at www.westfest.rocks or the city’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ CityNewberryFL.

AFTER-SCHOOL >> CREATIVE CAFÉ

OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH TO CREATE

Creative Café S T O R Y A N D P H O T OG R A P H Y B Y K A I T L I N A P P L E G AT E

Being a fish out of water is a queasy feeling. Seventh grader Michael Nye flopped into a fishy situation when he played an actual fish out of water for an improv game during Creative Café.

Creative Café is an after-school teen club run by the Newberry Branch Library. Beginning in the Fall of 2018, Creative Café is an acting, musical writing-oriented club designed for structured play. Open to high school and middle school students, the program gives an opportunity for teens to create and connect.

Attendance averages around six students each week, giving a big enough group for party games but small enough for everyone to become friends. Although most students know each other before joining the club, this program gives students a different way to connect. Every meeting starts with snacks donated from the Bagel Bakery and anything else members bring that day.

This gives kids the chance to decompress and check-in with one another.

Depending on the mood, library specialist and club creator Sarah Ingley will choose a game or activity for the day. One of the group’s favorite games is house party. In this game of treachery and tomfoolery, the party host must guess who or what each of her guests are. Lizzo and other characters from the TV show “Riverdale” often make appearances during the fun role play.

Although the Newberry branch has a special teen area, “we also like to go out into the community and meet the kids where they already are,” Ingley said.

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The idea came when Ingley was getting her usual coffee and saw the Blend coffee shop, located in Newberry, was filled with middle schoolers. The shop is a typical hangout for students since Meadowbrook Middle School is across the street. When Ingley saw the shop teeming with students, she saw an opportunity too.

Tucked away in the back room of the Blend, Creative Café’s meeting spot feels like entering a secret society. Furnished with stringed lights and a stage, the Blend provides a creative meeting space for free. Ingley sees the space as a way to channel excess energy after a full school day. After having to sit still, listen, and use screens most of the day, unwinding through creativity is a healthy outlet. This time challenges students to think on their feet and access the right side of their brains.

Scene writing, karaoke and ‘bad poetry’ are just a few of the activities the kids enjoy. During every meeting, new imaginary worlds are born and explored. Ingley said that before they celebrated bad poetry, they talked about what makes a good poem. Rhyme, meter and emotion are well-known poetic staples, so an awful poem can be anything from whiny to overly dramatic. As part of the creative and silly exercise, some students penned love poems that intentionally no one 78 |

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would be flattered to receive. Ingley said the poems performed were really funny and even better than what she wrote.

Although the club is largely performance based, Ingley explained that about half of the participants are soft spoken.

She said that getting to see them open up and gain confidence is very rewarding. Part of Creative Café’s strength is the unity it produces among different personalities. “We have a couple of divas,” Ingley said with a laugh.

Together, reserved and outgoing kids form a community.

One of Ingley’s favorite parts of leading Creative Café is seeing the club’s community bond. She does her best to foster an environment where the kids feel free to be silly and express themselves. But between laughs and scenes, there are times when the students get vulnerable with each other. The Creative Café becomes not only an after-school pit stop, but a real celebration of creativity and belonging. Ingley feels thankful that the club makes them feel safe.

Beyond giving a safe zone for students today, Ingley believes these meetings are building skills to last a lifetime. Beyond confidence building, improving public speaking and projecting, the club teaches students to work cooperatively. Much like a football

or basketball team, success doesn’t happen alone. Ingley explained that in order for a scene to be funny, everyone has to work together.

One way kids practice teamwork is through the improv principle of saying “yes and...” while performing. This concept highlights the idea that the best spontaneous acting comes from feeding off of one another instead of derailing ideas. As an example, Ingley said that if one performer said “I just got hit by a car,” the best way to kill the scene is for their partner to say “no you didn’t.” By contrast, responding with “yes and your leg is on the other side of the street” helps move the scene forward and engages the audience.

Learning how to support each other fosters camaraderie and respect.

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In polarized times, Ingley believes that the value of storytelling is immeasurable.

Instead of focusing on our differences, she sees that stories unite us in the things we all value. She is convinced that if anyone can master the skill of storytelling and listening, greater connectedness will follow.

“We are all living our life stories,” Ingley said.

The key to healthy relationships is learning how to communicate our stories well.

Michael Nye, a member since the first day of Creative Café, has seen the group evolve over time. Despite the changing members and activities, the club agrees that the Creative Café remains a place to laugh, to play and, most importantly, to belong.

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DIY PROJECT >> BUNNY BUMS

HOP ALONG

DIY Bunny Bums A Festive and Fun Easter Craft S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY ERICK A WINTER ROW D

“Here comes Peter Cottontail, hoppin’ down the bunny trail, hippity, hoppity, Easter’s on its way...”

W

ith Easter on the horizon, try out this festively fun DIY bunny bum craft! What is that silly Peter Rabbit up to again? Getting into mischief, of course. Create the whimsical scene of Peter digging into Mr. McGregor’s garden yet again. Oh, he’ll be furious!

But only if he catches Peter in the act, that is! How fast can this bunny hop away? That’s the question!

Follow these simple steps and you, too, can have a real ‘live’ Peter Rabbit dispay this Easter. A great craft to do with the kiddos and a perfect way to make a table centerpiece for Easter Sunday brunch. Create multiple bunny bums, add a pick to each one — and voilà!

You have adorable place card holders, ushering each guest to their proper place setting.

Now, hop along — it’s time to make your own bunny bum this Easter!

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SUPPLIES

• Small/mini Terra Cotta pots • Artificial flowers/greenery • Moss (to top your pot) • Small styrofoam block (to poke your greenery into) • Small and large white pom-poms • Hot glue gun • Scissors • Felt (for the feet) • Pink paint pen (to color in the toe pads) • Easter eggs/carrots/chicks (to add to your garden pot)

STEP ONE: Using your hot glue gun, attach the small pom-pom (bunny tail) to the large pom-pom (bunny bum). Set aside and allow time to dry.

STEP TWO: Cut out your bunny feet from the felt sheet. Be sure they are approximately the same size.

STEP THREE: Using your pink paint pen, paint toe pads onto your bunny feet (one large oval near the

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center and four tiny circles towards the top). Set aside and allow time to dry.

STEP FOUR: Cut a small square (large enough to fill the base of your pot) out of the styrofoam block. Place in the bottom of your pot.

STEP FIVE: Cut sprigs from your artificial greenery and shorten as needed to fit into your pot. Depending on your own taste, add more springs to create a fuller floral look. Poke the sprigs into the styrofoam block, which will secure the arrangement.

STEP SIX: Place moss on the top of the styrofoam block to create the look of a garden. Add enough moss until it nearly hits the rim of the pot.

STEP SEVEN: Using your hot glue gun, leave a line of glue on a small portion of the rim of your pot. Attach your bunny bum to the glue, bunny tail towards the front/top. Allow time to dry.

STEP EIGHT: Attach your bunny feet to the rear of the bunny bum using the hot glue gun. Allow time to dry.

STEP NINE: For the final touch, add mini Easter eggs, carrots and chicks to the garden display.

STEP TEN: Display your Peter Rabbit bunny bum on your dining room table, work desk or in a china cabinet — the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. This craft would also make a wonderful gift, just remember to use an Easter basket instead of a regular gift bag!

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Hoppy Easter, everybunny! 

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SOURCE: SOUTHERNINLAW.COM

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AUTHOR PROFILE >> ALBERT ISAAC

AN AUTHOR’S UTOPIA

ALBERT ISAAC’S ENDLESS TALE

The Story So Far S T O R Y B Y H AY L I Z U CCO L A | P H O T OG R A P H Y B Y E R I C K A W I N T E R R O W D

Some people are lucky enough to discover their passion young in life; even so, they may not realize its full potential until years later.

Albert Isaac always found a reason to write and tell stories, whether it was the cursive lettering scrawled throughout the Manila paperback he composed when he was seven or eight; childhood memories he’d recite to his kids in the place of bedtime tales or the detailed family newsletters he’d send to relatives, whatever it was, the art of storytelling was always a part of his identity.

Although his adolescent publication of “Billy and his Bellybutton,” didn’t set his writing career in stone, it was a small step in realizing his lifelong goal of writing and publishing a novel – one that was appreciated by people other than his parents and grandparents.

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After graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in English, he got a job at Alachua General and later the 8th District Medical Examiner’s Office – a far reach for anyone who studied English and film but a memorable experience nonetheless.

Working in the morgue wasn’t for the faint of heart and during his lengthy stay, he encountered hundreds of investigations including high-profile crimes like those of “the Gainesville Ripper,” Danny Rolling and the execution of serial killer Ted Bundy. To escape the fascinating yet morbid world of working in the morgue, Isaac would unwind by delving into science-fiction topics with one of his close friends, which

in this very magazine (Our Town), an accomplishment that was met with the news that his traffic jam piece also appeared in the local press. It was only the beginning of the catalog of clips he’d soon collect.

Isaac became a freelance writer and later editor for Our Town magazine for 10 years, as well as a contributing writer and columnist for High Springs’ The Observer, all of which put a temporary hold on his pursuit as a novelist.

Determined not to wait another 20 years for the printing of his second book, in 2013 Isaac released “Life so Far: Volume I,” which was a collection of columns and essays he’d produced up to that point as well as “Utopia Revisited,” the follow-up novel he began while putting the finishing touches on his first sci-fi book, “Endless.” In 2014 he also published “Life so Far: Volume II,” which gave him a total of four titles under his belt.

Isaac has a prequel to “Endless” and “Utopia Revisited,” he just needed the time to finish it. With the body of the story mostly complete, when it finally hits Amazon’s digital bookstore, it will be Isaac’s third sci-fi novel. Despite his appreciation for the world of science fiction and the eerie ambiance of the cyberpunk sub-genre paired with a 1950s dialogue, it isn’t the only style he’s interested in. Sitting in the back of his mind are stories from his time in the morgue – whether Isaac will compile them into short, true-crime narratives or use them as the basis for a thriller whodunit is still a mystery even to him.

Isaac’s latest nudge back into the writing world was his attendance at the first annual Sunshine State Book Festival presented by the Writer’s Alliance of Gainesville.

As one of over 70 regional authors present, the occasion allowed him to speak with other writers and engage with interested readers. It was an enjoyable event, but one that reminded him of one of his biggest challenges as a writer aside from finishing and publishing a novel: getting people to read what you’ve written. It’s hard enough trying to make it as a self-published author when your novel is clumped together with hundreds of other aspiring writers, but to grab the attention of a society that has grown accustomed to quick, short bursts of information is something Isaac is still figuring out how to do.

Even though his first publication was 27 years in the making, Isaac is proof of the adage that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.

“This is finding myself and something I always wanted to do,” he said. “I just took the back road to getting there.”

To learn more about Isaac and his novels, visit his website at albertisaac.com.

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AUTHOR PROFILE >> ALBERT ISAAC

sparked conversations that led him back to the work of fiction he originally wrote over two decades prior.

While in college, Isaac spent his spare time scribbling in a composition notebook and creating a science-fiction world where everyone lives forever. It was a piece he revisited several times from 1978 to 1990 before storing it away on a dusty floppy disk where it would remain for another 13 years.

The story’s concept piqued the interest of his friend who wanted to know more about this seemingly perfect world where everyone lives forever. His interest was the push Isaac needed to pick up where he left off and finally finish what would become his first publication. This once short story quickly grew in chapters and prompted more storylines than originally planned, which also garnered the possibility of a sequel.

“It grew from that little manuscript/short story to the novel that I later published,” Isaac said.

In 2005, Isaac published “Endless,” which documents a world where nobody dies and nobody gets old, but questions the consequences of living forever. It was a 27-year venture, but the long-awaited publication of “Endless” solidified Isaac’s career as a writer and provided him with some sort of self-validation.

“I’d like to say I’ve always been a writer, but a hobbyist mostly for most of my life until 2005,” he said.

“As a result of the book – even though the book has yet to become a bestseller, it’s not over yet, it could still happen – it had all these unforeseen consequences, which I don’t know if ‘consequences’ is the right word because they’re benefits actually, a good consequence because it launched my writing career.”

The beginning of his new life as a writer coincided with the ending of his job at the Medical Examiner’s Office, which in hindsight gave him the time and flexibility to expand his writing repertoire.

While traveling along I-75 with his wife and son in tow, Isaac contemplated his future endeavors, wanting to put an end to his tenure with unemployment – an inner monologue that ended with the flooring of his brakes. Suddenly they were stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic as the rain poured down around them – a stressful situation that left him surprisingly calm. Eventually the sky cleared and people decided to pass the three-to-fourhour delay by playing Frisbee, walking along the highway and grabbing snacks from a hotdog stand that conveniently opened a few cars down the road – a prime example of turning lemons into lemonade and an experience that gave Isaac the inspiration for his first news story. On a whim, he wrote about his adventure and sent it off to the Gainesville Sun; all he had to do now was wait. Meanwhile, a profile on the recently published author ran

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EDUCATION >> COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAMS

COMMUNICATION EDUCATION

University of Florida and Santa Fe College Communications Programs S T O R Y A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y E M I LY F E LT S

W

ithout storytellers, there would be no history. There would be no news. No books. No movies. Sometimes we get confused as to what and who storytellers actually are. They are more than just artists. They are writers, photographers, videographers, speakers, musicians and even historians. Every single person can be a storyteller by documenting what’s happening in the now.

Gainesville is home to two colleges that offer a variety of programs helping students learn specific skill sets to become better communicators.

SANTA FE COLLEGE Ann Scroggie, who taught speech and was a debate coach at Santa Fe College, said, “Storytelling is an essential, necessary skill.” This college offers multiple ways to tell stories.

One is through the literary magazine, Zephyr. It consists of short stories, poetry, creative nonfiction and one-act plays.

Erick Flag is head of the department of digital media and graphic design technology. This program combines graphics and multimedia training. After completing this course, students may apply for a bachelor’s in multimedia and video production technology at the college.

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One of the most popular courses helping students learn to present their ideas and represent themselves in an organized, coherent and effective manner is this public speaking course. Pat Breslin, a retired professor of speech and rhetoric, created a public speaking competition for students 12 years ago. This competition, which used to take place once a year, now takes place a few times each school year. Speech professors in each class can pick a talented student to perform in this competition.

One class aimed to open in fall 2020, is a personal communications course. RenKaplan, a professor in humanity and foreign languages, developed this course with the goal of helping students learn how to resolve conflicts on social media as well as across different cultures.

“There are communication skills that everyone should have and that we expect students to have, but they might not,” Kaplan said. “They need to learn how to communicate and engage with people from other cultures and learn how to engage with people online effectively.”

Santa Fe is also home to a thriving theatre program ran by Alora Haynes. In the past, they’ve performed a documentary performance on Alberto Alonso, a famous dancer and choreographer, called “Dance Of My Heart.” In November, they performed a ballet called “Carmen Suite,” choreographed by Alonso.

THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA The University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications is ranked as one of the top 10 journalism schools in the country. This wouldn’t be possible without the university’s staff members, all of which were successful in their careers before choosing to mold the young minds of today.

Ted Spiker came to UF in 2001 and has been the interim chair of the journalism department since 2014. He explains what communications students learn, starting with the traditional skills people use when working in these industries today. This includes a variety of reporting classes, journalism history and writing courses.

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After taking traditional classes, students pick a specialty area called a “two-course sequence.” It can be in photojournalism/ video storytelling, magazine writing and design, web and print design, data visualization, sports and more.

“Part of that is balancing the traditional with the new,” Spiker said. “So keeping our core principles and core skill sets in place but also being able to adapt to technology, being able to adapt to different storytelling methods, being able to teach our students to be fluid when it comes to how they approach things.”

John Freeman has taught students how to tell a story through photojournalism in the “J-School” since 1991. His beginner’s photojournalism class is open to all students sophomore and up at the university.

writers, to accepting a few videographers and photographers as well, he said.

Richard Shaw, who came to UF three years ago, teaches advanced photojournalism 2, an intro design class and also brought drone journalism to the university. This is currently the college’s third semester having a drone class. The course teaches students three basic concepts.

First is the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and guidelines for an unmanned aircraft. Next, is the visual aspects such as video storytelling, understanding classic cinematography techniques and how to use a drone as a tool.

The third concept is the legal and ethical issues such as privacy and trespassing.

“We didn’t want to encourage and appropriate the use of drones by thinking that you just throw it up in the air and fly around,” Shaw explained. “Think about your shot. Think about how it fits into the visual story line.”

To legally fly a drone, you must pass the licensing test, which you can take in Gainesville. Shaw said that while students are not given the exam at the college, they do learn enough information to pass the exam if they want to be licensed.

Other notable classes offered at the College of Journalism and Communications that teach students ways to tell a story are data journalism and visualization, multimedia reporting, feature writing and narrative nonfiction story writing, environmental journalism, magazine writing, food in media, investigative journalism, web applications for communicators and many more.

“There’s a reason why we’re offering so many different classes,” Spiker said. “Because we’re experimenting to see what we could better provide for students in hopes of giving you more skill sets.”

EDUCATION >> COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAMS

In this course, students learn the fundamentals of photojournalism, such as the manual controls for setting the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, how to blur the background of photos and ultimately how to capture great moments. In the end, students create a meaningful picture story documenting a person’s life.

For the past 15 years, Freeman has traveled with students to Berlin, Germany, for a two-week photojournalism summer study abroad program, fully immersing students in the photojournalistic experience. This program is available to anyone, even students who don’t attend the University of Florida.

Freeman explained that one way to expand your career in communications and storytelling is dabbling in videography.

“People like moving images, and they like to hear sounds and see moving images at the same time,” he said. “So I would encourage people to take the video storytelling class.”

Video Storytelling is taught by Gary Green, who came to the college in 2014. He recommends for students to understand the basics of photography first and to have some knowledge on how to edit video. This class teaches students to build documentary-styled visual narratives using HD video, still images, ambient audio and natural voices. They take what they learn and create a video documenting a social issue.

Green is also a co-founder of “Fresh Take Florida.” The senior-level program ‘fills a gap’ by covering the Florida state government. Over the years, stories from this program were published by some of the top news publications in the country, giving students a great opportunity to “get their foot in the door.”

“Let’s say you walk in for an interview at the Seattle Times, and they ask why they should hire you,” Green said. “You get to say, ‘my story was published on the front page of your paper.’”

Because of the increasing popularity in multimedia in stories, the program has gone from only taking a handful of

We asked communication professionals at both colleges what storytelling means to them and why it’s so important. Here were their answers: “Storytelling is the base of how we as humans communicate.

From the beginning of cave drawings, storytelling has always been our mission.”

— Gary Green

“Everybody is seeking information of some kind. You want to learn to tell it in a short, quick manner and let people figure out how it benefits their life personally or in business or professionally.”

— John Freeman

“Stories are what connect people and communities. Stories are what remind us that even though our circumstances are different, we all share a kind of universal human condition. The journey we go through in life is absolutely unique, but it’s also shared.” — Ted Spiker

“With visual storytelling, no translation is necessary. It has an impact across all cultures to shed light on important social issues and news events that impact our society.”

— Richard Shaw

“Storytelling clarifies, explains and descends the status quo. It is absolutely the most important element in communication, whether it’s written, oral or musical.

Stories change your life, but we’ve got to have facts.”

— Ann Scroggie

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HISTORY >> FAIRY TALES

ONCE UPON A TIME

THE RICH AND RATHER UNEXPECTED HISTORY OF FAIRY TALES

Tales As Old As Time W R ITTEN BY CA MERON COBB

“ Once upon a time” — a phrase that would begin a string of imaginative stories, which would continue to travel throughout history for years to come.

Transcending time, the list of these well-known tales can seem never-ending. However, any good reader knows that when they do end — it’s always happily ever after. Or is it?

If you’ve ever read a children’s bedtime story or watched a Disney movie in the ‘90s, chances are you’re familiar with a fairy tale or two. From the terrifying events set inside “Little Red Riding Hood” to those of the obnoxiously-sensitive Princess in “Princess and the Pea” to the greatest physical transformation story of all time in “The Ugly Duckling,” history is full of hundreds of fantastic examples of fairy tales, all with their humble beginnings dating back thousands of years.

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fables, myths, legends and other related types of literature?

Similar to folklore, fairy tales feature a set of stories that are universally passed from generation to generation, according to childrens-books.lovetoknow.com. What makes fairy tales stand out from other texts — especially in comparison to typical folklore — is their distinct, in-depth qualities, like having such vivid descriptiveness and often long, complex plots complete with heroes/heroines, changing settings and unexpected characters.

But fairy tales weren’t always the lighthearted stories that we know and love today. As it turns out, they were initially targeted towards an adult audience. The start of fairy tales

is one fairly grim, according to express.co.uk. For example, consider the story of Snow White — seems pretty harmless, right? (Sure, unless you’re a witch!) Did you know that in the Brothers Grimm version from 1812, Snow’s stepmother (the evil queen) was made to wear blazing-hot iron shoes and dance until she dropped dead? Obviously a lot less cheerful of an ending compared to Disney’s display of the damsel peacefully surrounded by her favorite dwarfs before she’s awakened by True Love’s Kiss and charioted away into Happily Ever After — which appears to be the more common (and definitely more pleasant) adaptation of the tale.

Though considering all of your familiar favorites, keep in mind fairy tales go far beyond the classical stories of Cinderella’s rags-to-riches experience or the tragic (yet tasty)

Fairy tales enabled women to share stories centered around strong, capable heroine figures overcoming obstacles and coming out victorious. fate of “The Gingerbread Man.” At around 7,000 years old, the fairy tale known today as “The Smith and the Devil” by far makes for the oldest fairy tale in the world, according to curiosity.com. Shared all around the globe in over 35 different languages throughout history, this European classic tells the story of a blacksmith signing over his soul to the Devil in exchange for supernatural powers (what could go wrong?).

We won’t spoil the ending, but just know it doesn’t turn out well for one side of the bargain.

Despite all the dismal storylines, fairy tales did play a positive role when it came to women empowerment. The word ‘fairy tale’ derives from the foreign phrase ‘contes de fées,’ which was coined during the 17th century by a French writer known as Marie-Catherine d’Aulnoy, according to express. co.uk. Outside of just Countess d’Aulnoy herself, women played a huge part in the expansion of fairy tales. Several centuries ago, women often crafted such stories with a greater intention than to simply just pass the time — rather, they were telling these tales as a way to “protest the societal constraints that were placed upon them and to emphasize their own rights as women in a man’s world,” according to childrens-books. lovetoknow.com. As an entertaining way to empower and educate their children, fairy tales enabled women to share stories centered around strong, capable heroine figures overcoming obstacles and coming out victorious.

Though fairy tales clearly had rather grim beginnings, they also acted as strong messages of empowerment and have transformed into popular stories that continue to be told and loved all around the world today (not to mention they made for some pretty cool animated films!).

In the brilliant words of one of the most renowned fairy tale authors throughout history: “Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale.” —Hans Christian Andersen.

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LITERACY EDUCATION >> READING PALS

READING R AINBOW

You’ve Got a Friend ReadingPals: A Mentorship Program that Fosters Literacy Education W RIT TE N BY S TE PH S TRICKL A N D

B

y the end of third grade, standardized state assessments show that only 30% of students in Florida are reading proficiently. In fact, nearly half of students fail their exams, earning the lowest level of achievement in reading.

What does this mean in the long run? Statistics show children who can’t read proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more likely to drop out of school and never receive a diploma.

Members of The Children’s Movement of Florida, a nonprofit focused on youth development and education, felt there was more each community could be doing to foster literacy among young students. So, ReadingPals was born.

ReadingPals is a mentorship program that matches students struggling to read with an adult mentor from the

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community to foster literacy education. The program is administered through United Way and other community partners, and currently reaches over 3,000 students each year in 27 counties across the state. There are currently eight ReadingPals sites in the Gainesville area.

Rahkiah Brown, manager of educational partnerships at United Way, oversees this program and has witnessed firsthand the impact it has made. “We’re planting seeds in students,” she said. “I’d imagine there are alumni of ReadingPals graduating high school that still remember their mentor.”

Mentors for ReadingPals undergo an application and background check process, then obtain training in literacy and mentorship. Brown said the diversity of mentors that choose to volunteer is wide-ranging – from professionals to students and retirees. Mentors can work one-on-one with students in the program or in

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small groups. Brown said mentors are matched with students at various sites based on the needs at that location.

For Brown, the mentorship of ReadingPals goes beyond teaching basic reading skills. The relationships built between mentor and mentee are strong and consistent, which often leads to greater confidence among the students.

As mentors and facilitators of the program as a whole, people like Brown may not always get to see the fruits of their labor first-hand. However, Brown said she knows the program has a longterm impact on students involved. She said she still witnessess those ‘light bulb moments’ from time-to-time, seeing the transformation of students before and after participating in the program.

“I’ve always had a passion for youth development,” Brown said. “Seeing kids succeed in school and life is the most fulfilling part of my job.”

Amber Miller, senior director of Rahkiah Brown business and community partnerships at United Way, echoed Brown’s sentiment and added that many students within the ReadingPals program come from marginalized populations or have some form of previous trauma. “We work really hard to make sure the kids in 94 |

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the program have a consistent mentor,” Miller said.

She explained that programs like ReadingPals can help break cycles of poverty in the communities they are in. “Education is important. Period. Regardless of your background,” Miller said.

ReadingPals is always looking to expand, and Miller said they are also working on improving the program at existing sites. By putting structures in place to measure the improvements in reading for those students in the program, and identifying new sites for ReadingPals, the program can continue to flourish in more communities.

This program is made possible through numerous partnerships in the community, volunteer mentors and the vision of leaders of the program. And, of course, the hard work of the children within it. “[Brown] knows the program inside and out, and I collaborate with her to see how we can get the funding and support for it,” Miller said.

Locals to Gainesville have also become more passionate about the program.

In 2018, a club was started by University of Florida students called Gators for ReadingPals, which gets students at UF more involved in the mentorship process. “It’s amazing to see so PHOTOGRAPHY: STEPH STRICKLAND

many organizations and people coming together to support literacy,” Miller said.

Many of the students have countless inconsistencies in their lives coming into the program, and ReadingPals is meant to be a safe space for them to enjoy reading and have fun. Students typically enter ReadingPals frustrated with school, to being excited and completely transformed about the ways they think about reading.

For Brown and Miller, the perfect example of ReadingPals success in the community came out of Girls Place, when Tiffany Braswell entered the ReadingPals program as a third grader.

She was among a large population of students struggling to read proficiently.

Motivation was down and frustration was setting in, but Braswell had a patient and consistent mentor ready to help change her relationship with reading. The staff of the ReadingPals program at Girl’s Place noted a sharp transformation in motivation and confidence in reading. Braswell now lit up when talking about reading.

Braswell became a leader at Girls Place and progressed the program even further. She led successful graduates of ReadingPals into kindergarten classrooms to become mentors to younger students. Her idea grew into a JuniorPals program, where students become mentors to each other.

Lynn Little, a program director at Girls Place in Gainesville, where Braswell began participating in the ReadingPals program,

said the students look forward to each Friday when they get to see their pal. “Kids come up and ask, ‘when is my pal coming…’ and it’s all about forming that connection,” she said.

JuniorPals functions as a spinoff of ReadingPals, where student graduates of the ReadingPals program, typically fourth and fifth grade students, lead in mentoring younger students as they gain literacy skills.

JuniorPals began in the 2017-2018 school year and is currently exclusive to the students at Girls Place, but Brown said she hopes to expand this program because it embodies what ReadingPals stands for. “It’s not just about literacy,” she said.

“They build relationships and confidence.”

Some of the older students aren’t necessarily strong readers yet themselves, but having a pal there to hold them accountable and give them someone to improve for is enough motivation to keep them learning, Little explained. “Some students didn’t feel like reading once a week with their pal was enough,” she said.

The example set by Braswell and other students at Girls Place demonstrates the confidence in literacy and leadership skills that ReadingPals sets out to instill in its participants, as well as the direct impact it has on the Gainesville and North Florida community. This type of program is part of a larger movement pushing for on-level reading all over the state and nation.

“It’s amazing to see so many organizations coming together to support literacy,” Miller said. “It’s reassuring to see people fighting the good fight.”

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STORYTELLER TRADITIONS >> THELMA BOLTIN

Thelma Boltin dressed as “Cousin Thelma” at the 1960 Florida Folk Festival. Her passion for preserving Florida folklore was evident as soon as she stepped onto the stage.

THE QUEEN OF THE FLORIDA FOLK FESTIVAL

Thelma A. Boltin W R I T T E N B Y J O A N N A G R E Y TA L B O T

Folklore is one of the threads that binds a culture together from one generation to the next.

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, folklore is defined as “traditional customs, tales, sayings, dances or art forms preserved among a people.” In the 1930s and 1940s a movement began to preserve and celebrate Florida’s folklore and folk music.

The Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, on the banks of the Suwannee River, was opened in 1950. The park was named for composer Stephen Foster who made the river famous with his 1851 song “Old Folks at Home.”

Lillian Saunders of White Springs, who had worked to procure the first 100 acres for the park, presented the idea for a folk festival to the Stephen Foster Memorial Commission. They 96 |

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jumped at the idea and brought in Sarah Gertrude Knott, the founder of the National Folk Festival, to help them plan and launch the Florida Folk Festival.

The first festival was held in 1953 and longtime Gainesville resident Thelma A. Boltin was a founding member. Although she was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, she moved to Gainesville at the age of 3 and graduated from Gainesville High School in 1923. Boltin studied drama at Emerson College and then moved back to Gainesville to teach drama and public speaking at her high school alma mater. During World War II, she became the city’s first recreation director and operated the service center.

Boltin had a love for theatre, storytelling, and preserving traditions. For a time, she also hosted WGGG Radio’s “Story Lady Hour.” Where did Miss Boltin’s love of folklore stem from? She revealed in a 1976 Gainesville Sun article that she “was lucky enough to be born into a family that liked to sit around the

supper table and ‘chew the rag.’ Father’s family was just filled with storytellers and they visited alot. Our home was always open. There was always room for one more.”

At the root of it, Thelma was a collector – bottles, antiques, family heirlooms and folklore. She traveled the state presenting her program “Florida Lore in Song and Story” to school children and civic organizations, which included the telling of old superstitions, remedies and recipes.

One of her greatest desires was to encourage communication between the generations. She wanted to inspire children to go home and ask older family members about the “old ways.”

In 1955 she was given the opportunity to encourage an even larger audience. Dr. Alton Morris of the University of Florida, who was serving as the folklore advisor of the festival, asked Boltin to take over as director. At first, she was inclined to say no, but Dr. Morris told her to sleep on it and the rest is history.

She moved to White Springs and became program director of the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center in 1955 and transformed the Florida Folk Festival into a state institution and beloved event, assisted by Barbara Beauchamp. Beauchamp was also a founding member of the festival and spent forty years supporting and championing the preservation of Florida’s traditional culture.

St. Petersburg Times reporter Nancy Osgood said in 1969 that “The personality of Miss Thelma Boltin blends into the atmosphere of the Stephen Foster Memorial at White Springs as mellifluously as the Suwannee River meanders through its woodsy acres.” For over twenty years, you could not think of the Florida Folk Festival without thinking of Boltin.

Boltin traveled the state scouting for talent and even conducted auditions over the phone. Many well-known performers, such as Will McLean, Gamble Rogers, Bob Patterson, and the Makleys, have graced the stages of the festival.

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TRADITIONS >> THELMA BOLTIN

Her stage name, “Cousin Thelma,” originated when she began writing to performers to invite them to the festival. She believed that a folk festival was informal, so she wanted to strike that tone in her letters and began signing them “Cousin Thelma.” “You can’t be formal with a fella who signs himself ‘cousin,’ can ya?” she asked in a 1976 Gainesville Sun article.

She was also active in the auditions for the festival’s “Jeanie.” The award and scholarship originated as a way to encourage young female vocal students. The name “Jeanie” came from the song by Stephen Foster, “I Dream of Jeanie With the Light Brown Hair.” Today, there is also

She believed that a folk festival was informal, so she wanted to strike that tone in her letters and began signing them “Cousin Thelma.” a male counterpart known as “Stephen.” In a 1969 St. Petersburg Times article, Thelma talked about how the contestants would come Friday to Sunday and the judges tried “to make them feel at home, but no shorts. We want them to be young ladies.”

Boltin was a fixture on the Florida Folk Festival stage as the emcee and a performer for many years, even after she stopped serving as director. She believed that the festival was “real Americana” and poured her heart and soul into it.

She fully retired in the 1980s and eventually moved back to Gainesville. In 1985 she was awarded the Florida Folk Heritage Award by the Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources. Florida lost a beloved treasure when she passed away in 1992.

Thelma once said in an oral history interview, “And it’s all folk ways, they might change a little bit, but they’re essentially the same, aren’t they?

The folk tales that come out of all people are essentially the same, you see.”

Whether we realize it or not, folklore binds all of us together. Who doesn’t love listening to a good story?

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GOOD THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU CELEBRATE KIND WORDS… The purpose of this special section is to build community, appreciation and hope. In the following pages you’ll find words of encouragement. These are testimonials from local people sharing what they love about the people and places that support our community and need your support.

We hope you’ll find some places you love, and encourage them too ;)

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“Barre works so much more that I realized it would. A smaller group setting, motivating music, encouraging instructors, and seeing results is worth coming back for! You leave feeling amazing and can tackle your day!” — DIANA KENDRICK “I truly believe and feel that the instructors want to provide all clients with the best

tools to reach their highest potential in class, whether it’s strength, balance, focus, or just having a good time!”

— CHRISTY HILL

AUXO Fitness

Empower Your Body 4994 NW 39th Ave, Suite D | 352-727-7800

auxofitness.com 100 |

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“We had a fantastic time working with Adrienne! She paid close attention to detail and managed to capture the essence of who we are in this season of life. Cannot wait to work with her again!!” — ZAKIYA SMITH-DORE

“Adrienne is extremely helpful, prompt, and professional. Working with her you can tell she is

very experienced and knows her way around the lens. She helped us elevate our Family

business and we at Cilantro Tacos could not ask for a better photographer!

Thank you Adrienne

”

— NATE METH

Adrienne Fletcher Photography Weddings. Portraits. Life.

352-514-7277

adriennefletcher.com March/April 2020

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“Excellent service, very professional, explained everything beforehand; afterwards Jake explained what he found and what I should expect at the next visit. So glad someone recommended Dayton Heating and Air to me. I rate this company 10 of 10” — CHRIS N.

“I recommend Jacob and Dayton Heating and Air to anyone who is looking for professionalism coupled with a fair cost. I was so pleasantly surprised after dealing with other companies who don’t call you back, overcharge and don’t understand customer service. My experience with Jacob and Dayton Heating and Air has been exemplary.” — PAMELA P.

Dayton Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC Affordable Service, Repair and Installation CAC1819132 | 352-317-2132

daytonheatandair.com 102 |

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“The food and service are always on point!

EVERYTHING on the menu is delicious!! I’ve never had a mediocre meal or service here!

Great atmosphere inside and out!”

— CHRISTIE A.

The Great Outdoors

Open at 11:00am Tuesday through Sunday 65 N Main St, High Springs | 386-454-1288

greatoutdoorsdining.com March/April 2020

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“Huge shout out to Tina for saving the day by creating a last minute boutonnière for homecoming!!

What a great new Alachua business!!! Thank you!!”

“Really beautiful and unique flower arrangements.

stayed fresh for a long time!”

— MICHELLE J.

They smelled great and — LIZ S.

Alachua Flowers & Tuxedo Rentals

alachua-flowers-and-tuxedo-rentals.business.site Like us on Facebook | 352-339-6290

14520 Main Street, Alachua 104 |

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“Excellent prices, great sales!! Clean store and friendly staff! I have no trouble finding anything!!

Keep up the great work!” — SANDY S.

“Orders my favorite specialty items and always remembers what I favor!!

Great staff, very friendly. LOVE THIS PLACE!”

— TAMARA B.

“Love. Love. Love love love! I came here just for a browse and left awed. The selection of staples is absolutely ridiculous, and the variety of cordials blew my mind.” — APRIL O.

The Liquor & Wine Shoppe

Great people, prices & monthly wine tastings 14451 Newberry Rd, Jonesville | 352-332-3308

facebook.com/LiquorShoppes March/April 2020

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“I absolutely LOVE this salon! Their products are amazing too!” — TURI D. “I am very pleased for a first-timer and so is Goldie! I’m sure she can’t wait for her next spa day with such wonderful people! A big thanks to everyone who works there.” — ANGELA V. “I’ve been taking my two dogs there for many years and have always been happy with the groomers — I’ve used a number of them, but especially love Ashley. They are wildly popular in Gainesville, so book early for an appointment.” — VASSILIKI S.

Nature’s Pet Day Spa

The world-class care and attention your pets deserve 500 NW 60th St, Suite C | 352-331-8681

naturepetsgrooming.com 106 |

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“Wonderful staff! they treated my son like he was their own.

They’ll work with you for even same day appointment… I have not one negative thing to say.”

— KELLYE G.

The doctor was so sweet to my girls, and I felt that he was extremely knowledgeable and did

“Everything was perfect. The staff were amazing, so nice.

not leave out a single detail. The nurse was very kind and welcoming. You could tell that this is a great place! Loved our visit!” — TONYA D.

Little Pine Pediatrics

Lifelong Partners in Your Child’s Health 15551 NW Hwy 441 Suite 40, Alachua | 386-518-0102

littlepinepediatrics.com March/April 2020

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“At the Einstein school children are taught empathy and acceptance, while their individuality is encouraged. Our child could not be in a better place.” — LORI S. “The Einstein School, while we’ve only been there a short time, has literally saved my son. I was told that he couldn’t read, I was told that he couldn’t learn, I was told that he couldn’t talk well enough for his SPED teacher to understand him, so she made him point. The Einstein School has brought out the best in him and shown that he can do all of these things. All he needed was someone to listen to him and understand that he learned differently — someone who believed in him and cared about him.

Thank you so much Einstein School!” — JEMMA D.

The Einstein School

Where Children Learn How To Read 5910 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville | 352-335-4321

emschool.org 108 |

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“Today with the help of my Credit Union, I was able to help a lot of great people.

And if you are looking for a great place to do your banking, check out SunState Credit Union. Thanks to SunState Federal Credit Union!” — A VERY HAPPY MEMBER “I am so happy and proud to have businesses like you in our community who give so much back. In the

last couple of years, your generosity has been amazing, and you have helped so many children and other worthy causes. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you!” — JORDAN M. SunState Federal Credit Union

Proudly serving our members and our community since 1957

www.SunStateFCU.org March/April 2020

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“One of the best and my personal favorite pawn shop around!

All of the staff are extremely helpful. They keep the place clean and are always very

friendly and professional.” — LACEY S.

“I absolutely love Oaks Pawn. I will never go to any other pawn shop.

They treat you like family and are always kind and respectful.” — TERESA S. Oaks Pawn at High Springs

Buy, Sell or Pawn 18522 US 441 South | 386-454-3776

oakspawn.com 110 |

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“I have rented steam cleaners and thought our carpet came out nice and clean in the past but I had never had it professionally cleaned.

WOW, what a difference! The carpet looks like and feels like new again. It is fluff y and soft and looks really white again. I can’t believe the difference it made and for a very good price.”

— MAT T D.

The Best Restoration

Masters of Disasters 7230 W. University Ave. | 352-505-3321

thebestrestoration.com March/April 2020

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the best urgent care facility that I have ever been to. The staff and physician was very thorough, kind and had a phenomenal bedside manner. I didn’t feel like a number. I felt like I was being listened to. Thank you so much for the great care that I received!”

“This is by far

— KAYLA F.

OneStop Medical & Urgent Care

TriWest Authorized Facility 15652 NW US Hwy 441 Ste 2D, Alachua | 386-418-4060

www.OneStopMedCenter.com 112 |

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March/April 2020

“Great food, a lot of great choices. Mojo pork tacos excellent, the plantains in it are an awesome touch. You can never go wrong with the Tuscan sandwich.”

— JORGE G.

“Fantastic menu. Red fish over grits is a spicy explosion of flavor. Filet mac & cheese is creamy goodness to die for. Exceptional local draft list. Craft cocktails too. Quick, competent service. Highly impressed!”

— CRAIG D.

“The fun place for pre game meeting other Gators. The drinks and food is great and bar tenders & waitress are very friendly a accommodating. Just lots of fun for everyone.” — GUY T.

The Social at Midtown

Premier upscale sports restaurant and rooftop bar 1728 W University Ave. | 352-373-7383

thesocialgnv.com March/April 2020

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I just got back from a visit at Gainesville DPC Physicians. It was a fantastic experience. The blood draw was as painless as I have ever experienced (thanks

Megan). The people are very friendly, courteous and caring. It was so nice not to be rushed through a system, but rather to be listened to I would highly recommend! — CHRIS JET TÉ

“There aren’t words to describe the blessing that this practice is to me and my family. Dr. Cotter is so personal and kind, compassionate, prompt, and just brilliant. I

would recommend either of these fabulous doctors for your family’s primary care.” — JOY SALYERS Gainesville Direct Primary Care Physicians You’re our patient. We’re your doctors. It’s that simple.

13577 NW 2nd Lane, Ste 20, Newberry | 352-204-0120

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“Melissa is incredibly helpful in getting us the right coverage at the best price. She advocates for us proactively.

Best insurance agent I have ever dealt with!”

— JOEL BLUMENTHAL

“The most pleasant insurance shopping experience I’ve ever had! All the staff are extremely welcoming and friendly. Brent, our agent is particularly professional, prompt, and courteous! I’ll no longer spend hours

Schneider provides us with one of the most competitive rates and customer service!!!”

shopping for deals online,

— CHUNGLING YAN

Schneider and Associates

Insurance Agents You Can Rely On 285 Nw 138th Terrace, Suite 100 | 352-333-3775

schneider-insurance.com March/April 2020

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“I have used Carpet Systems Plus for a long time, and I

wouldn’t use anyone else!

They are friendly, thorough and punctual. So far I have used Carpet Systems Plus for my carpets, a sofa and grout cleaning. I have always been pleased with their services.

They are a 5 Star company!” — DIANE D.

“I highly recommend them for move outs, seasonal cleaning, or prior to renting/listing a property. On time, professional, trustworthy — phenomenal results!”

Carpet Systems Plus

— CHRIS B.

Love Your Floors Again!

1406 NW 6th Street, Suite C | 352-258-1357

CarpetSystemsPlus.com 116 |

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“Dr.Montini and staff are amazing, I wouldn’t go anywhere else. I do not have one complaint always so nice and always very helpful and wonderful work. Will continue to refer to this wonderful office.”

— TAMRA B.

“My daughter got her braces on yesterday and was little nervous. The Staff and Dr Montini were awesome. They went out of their way to make it the best experience possible. And that is the best thing any parent can witness. Thank you.” — ROSIE G.

Montini Orthodontics

Healthy Smiles Are Our Greatest Reward 7520 W. University Ave. | 352-332-7911

MontiniOrtho.com March/April 2020

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My boyfriend and I had a wonderful dinner here. Probably our new, favorite place to eat out.

The food was very delicious and they gave great proportions.

They actually had some of the best sushi I’ve had since being in Gainesville. My boyfriend loved his steak — very juicy, no fat, cooked perfectly and the meat really felt like it just fell apart in your mouth. It was that delicious! Very fast service when we went. Will definitely be back. — POLLY HWU One other thing: I love the staff. They are so friendly and helpful. If you haven’t tried dining at Ballyhoo, you won’t be disappointed. — THOMAS PERNICE “The seabass dish was the best I ever had! The taste was delicious, a very thick cut and the presentation was beyond reproach!” — KEN B. 118 |

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“This place is fantastic. The service was great and they went above and beyond to ensure we had a great experience, especially our server, Trey. The food was perfect and all 6 of us were extremely happy. They even paid special attention to my toddler and brought him extra crayons and things to keep him occupied.

Definitely will be back!” — TARYN COOPER

“Awesome place to go after the game.

Great variety! Must try the Bananas Foster! Great experience and dessert!”

— NORMAN C.

Ballyhoo Grill

Serving Gainesville since 1998 3700 Newberry Rd | 352-373-0059

ballyhoogrill.com March/April 2020

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“Always fresh, well prepared food. Warm hearted owners who stay involved.

Great local joint, and the food truck is spotted all over.” — BOBBY P. “For the second time in a year, I arranged to have Nathan bring his food truck out to feed about 60 employees. Nathan is very nice, professional and does what he says he’s going to do.” — PACA S. “Even with a 4.9 review rating, Cilantro Tacos is an underrated restaurant. Most people that I refer to Cilantro Tacos have never heard of them. After eating there, they are devotees.” — CHRISTIAN M.

Cilantro Tacos

Freshness You Can Taste 12921 SW 1 Rd, Newberry

352-472-1300 120 |

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March/April 2020

“They are the best! Got me exactly what I needed, saved us money and I’m comfortable enough that I’ve referred many of my coworkers and friends.” — DARA MARINO “I know my family can trust and depend on Perry to make sure everything is taken care of.”

— PASTOR MARK SPRADLEY

“We’ve been with P&L Financial going into our third year. Perry has always been informative,

problem solving, reliable and accessible. We definitely consider him our friend.” — DENNIS & LISA KOZAK P&L Financial Services, Inc.

American Senior Benefits 5700 SW 34th St. Suite #106 | 352-745-7546

www.pandlfs.com March/April 2020

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“We love this place! The food is delicious, especially the steamed dumplings!

The staff is so sweet and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. My family can’t get enough.” — NANCY S.

“Best Thai restaurant in Gainesville. They have a plenty of options for vegetarians/ vegans too. Their Thai hot spice level is great for my Indian taste buds. Great service.”

— HIMANSHU V.

“Excellent flavor. Crispy tofu salad was amazing. Sticky rice with mango was delicious. Friendly waiter who explained the menu well and a decent amount of vegan options!” — SRI G.

Bangkok Square

Family-Owned Serving the Best Authentic Thai Cuisine Two locations | 8181 NW 38th Ln. | 6500 SW Archer Rd.

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“I love that I will have direct access to my provider (phone, text, messenger and email) and won’t have to wait days or weeks to be seen.

I’ll keep my health insurance for emergency care and specialists, but financially this just makes sense. If you’re looking for something better, you should definitely check this place out! — MONICA S.

“I just had a patient who is a patient at Celebrate Primary Care, she just went on and on about what an amazing amazing practice y’all have! She’s never experienced such personalized medical care. You are doing great things for people!” — COURTNEY G.

Celebrate Primary Care

A Personal Relationship with your Medical Provider Gainesville (352) 474-8686 | Alachua (386) 518-0200

celebrateprimarycare.com March/April 2020

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“Dr. Webb will treat you like family.”

— ROD S.

“Always smiling and always a pleasant experience which is weird when you consider that it is the dentist.

Love Dr. Jordan and Dr. Patti.” — TONY M. “The Gentle Dental Care staff were very friendly, kind, and concerned about my welfare. I would definitely recommend them if you are looking for a new dental professional to take care of you!” — MICHELLE G.

Gentle Dental Care

From Our Family to Your Family 3655 SW 2nd Avenue | 352-378-2555

GainesvilleDentist.com 124 |

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March/April 2020

“Friendly service with an excellent variety of food. The burgers are fantastic and on special every Monday night! Family friendly, country atmosphere makes this place an easy local gem!”

— J. CUCCHIARA

“The food and bar staff are the best!! My go to spot for cold drinks and great appetizers.

Burgers and soup are always great.” — DENISE ROSE “I am so happy to have this restaurant in Jonesville! I frequent here often with my family as well as business meetings for lunch. Friendly and efficient staff. Great food with plenty of choices.” — NANCY SHORT

Copper Monkey West

Your wait is over — our legendary burgers are back!

14209 W Newberry Rd, Jonesville | 352-363-6338

mycoppermonkey.com March/April 2020

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“This place is amazing! :) They are so patient and loving.” — MERI B. “This was my son’s first and only preschool. We loved the staff, who are so caring and knowledgeable.

I always refer other families to them who want quality care for their children.” — CHERIE K. “My daughter went to the Education Station for a year and it was by FAR the greatest daycare/ preschool experience I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing!” — PEGGY M.

Education Station & Preschool

Where Learning Never Stops 2411 NW 41st St, Gainesville | 352-335-0026

educationstationandpreschool.com 126 |

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“What can I say except that all of the beds one could dream of are neatly displayed in a beautiful store. No pressure to buy or push us to any action at all. Very pleasant store to visit.”

— JAMES CLEMENS

“The Sleep Center is my go-to place for all beds. As a busy Realtor, I refer all my

clients to Brent and his team. Brent’s philosophy is that he’s not satisfied until his

customer is and I see that in the people he hires as well.”

— BETSY PEPINE

The Sleep Center Superstores

3242 SW 35 Blvd., Gainesville | 352-872-5665 4994 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville | 352-872-5668

gainesvillesleepcenter.com March/April 2020

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“I went to Kirsikka with a couple ideas in mind for an engagement ring and was so happy to talk with the shop owner - Alexis about different possibilities. In the end he made a customized ring especially tailored for my (now) fiancée and she absolutely loved it!” — JESSE A. “Kirsikka Jewelry is the kind of boutique business that makes living in Gainesville a positive experience.

The service, attention to detail, and expertise that I have consistently received here makes it worth the trip.” — PHILIP A. Kirsikka Jewelry

Jewelry Beyond The Seven Seas 5750 SW 75th Ct, #48 | 352-353-6968

kirsikkajewelry.com 128 |

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The End. Or is it really just the beginning?

Now it’s up to you to say something nice or share a positive experience.

We encourage you to take a moment and tell us what you love about these or other local businesses. Words matter – and what we say can have a meaningful impact.

Share The Love by posting on our Facebook page and telling us more about the people and places you LOVE. Love on!

This special section was brought to you by Our Town Magazine and Adrienne Fletcher Photography.

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Our Town

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Our Town does not endorse any business, product, place or service. Nor does the content of this publication intend to do so, but rather is for your entertainment and informational use. The content used in this publication was collected through various online and offline sources. We have not independently verified any of the claims made in this publication and have no liability for the completeness, accuracy or fitness of any of the information. That means you are solely responsible for verifying any claims. ©2019 Tower Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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

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

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

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

SPONSORSHIP L EVEL S AVAIL ABL E 1,000 CHARITY OF THE MONTH SPONSOR

$

130 |

500 RANDOM CHARITY SPONSOR

$

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

• 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.

• 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.

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

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

March/April 2020

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”

DECEMBER 2019 WINNER

JANUARY 2020 WINNER

Anniston Grace Foundation

Trenton Drama Club

The winner of the December Charity of the Month is the Anniston Grace Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to fill the arms of those left with a hole in their heart after the loss of a child. The organization provides valuable goods to families and hospitals to soothe the grieving process, such as materials to make lasting mementos, a list of Do’s & Don’ts for family members, referrals for counseling and much more.

The foundation will receive $1,000. Alanna Whitehead will win $300 for nominating them. The random charity is Curvy Girls, they will receive $500.

The random voter, Margaret Finn, will win $100.

The winner of the January Charity of the Month is Trenton Drama Club. They will be performing “The Addams Family,” a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, in March. Featuring an original story, everything will change for the whole Addams family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

They will receive $1,000. Vanessa Marks will win $300 for nominating them. The random charity is Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida, they will receive $500. The random voter, Nicolli Sorice, will win $100.

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

March/April 2020

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TASTE OF THE TOWN

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

Cilantro Tacos

Tioga Town Center - 12921 SW 1 Rd Suite #103 Monday - Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm

352-472-1300 Authentic Mexican — A family-owned restaurant that was founded through a passion for great food and hosting dinner parties with friends. Originally from Southern California, their love for Mexican food moved to the wonderful community of Newberry in 2013. They take pride in the quality, freshness, and vibrant flavors of their food — with meats that are never frozen and everything prepared fresh and made-to-order.

Enjoy the tastefully marinated meats and savor the mild, spicy, and mouthwatering salsas that are created from scratch. They feel their purpose is to spread happiness, make contributions to the community and create lasting memories of fun, laughter, and great times. When you eat with us, you’re family. So come on in!

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 - 11:00pm

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.

Pepperoni’s Pizzeria

19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (located in Mills Plaza) Sun -Thurs 11:00am — 9:00pm • Fri & Sat 11:00am — 10:00pm ORDER ONLINE OR DOWNLOAD OUR APP

386-454-3858 PepperonisPizzeria.com Pizzeria — Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings and salads in town using Grande brand premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. We also have great lunch specials starting at only $5.99. All of our specialty pizzas are loaded with toppings. Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located on U.S. Highway 441 in Mills Plaza.

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Bangkok Square

Two Gainesville Locations: 6500 SW Archer Road & 8181 NW 38th Lane 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 Archer 352-672-6969 39th Ave. 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.

Crafty Bastards

4860 NW 39th Ave. ( Magnolia Parke, between Starbucks and TiresPlus) Open at 11am every day

352-872-5970 www.thecraftybastards.com Restaurant - Pub — Crafty Bastards Restaurant is located in NW Magnolia Parke.

Open daily at 11am. We offer great lunch specials M-F 11am-4pm, including 1/2lb Angus grilled burgers and juicy chicken handhelds, fresh fries, salads, soups and more. Check out our Happy Hour M-F 11am-7pm. Looking for fun in the evenings?

Check out Trivia Tuesdays, Karaoke Wednesdays and Live Entertainment on Thursday, Friday and Saturday! Crafty Bastards is also a great place to enjoy your sports on large screen TV’s. Private Party Room for office or birthday parties available. Come see why Crafty Bastards is NW Gainesville’s Best Kept Secret! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!

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.

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TASTE OF THE TOWN

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

Leonardo’s Pizza 4131 NW 16th Blvd (Millhopper) Sunday - Thursday: 11:00am - 9:30pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00am - 10:30pm

352-376-2001 leonardosmillhopper.com Mouth Watering — Family friendly and locally-owned-and-operated pizza joint with a unique, nostalgic atmosphere that is as distinctive as our delicious food.

Chicago-style pizzas, hand tied garlic knots, and Italian baked dinners and salad bar, we know you’ll be back for more. Come and see why Gainesville loves our signature deep dish pizza pie, the Big Leo. Since 1976 Gainesville has grown up on pizza from Leonardo’s Millhopper and we are still going strong! Our dedicated staff (many have been with us for 15-20 years) knows how important it is to treat you properly. We take great pride in our welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to make you part of our family.

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!

Harvest Thyme Café Downtown Alachua - 14816 Main Street, Alachua Open 7 days a week 10am-3pm 386-588-3188

www.harvesthymecafe.com Cafe — Harvest Thyme Cafe now has two locations! We are open for lunch in downtown Alachua, and open for breakfast and lunch in northwest Gainesville! Serving our homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, fresh fruit, pasta salad and more! We also offer yummy vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options to satisfy every dietary preference. Check out our catering menu online, it’s the simple, easy and fresh solution that you’ve been looking for! We’re ready to serve you delicious, healthy and fresh food! Come visit us at either of our two locations!

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El Toro

15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza) Monday – Thursday 11:00am – 9:00pm Friday & Sat 11:00am – 10:00pm Sunday Noon – 8:00pm

386-418-1039 www.eltorogainesville.com Get Full At The Bull — Bienvenido! Welcome! We are a family owned and family friendly business. We have been serving our guests high quality fresh food for over 28 years. We welcome our guests with our Award Winning Salsa and warm homemade chips, add some fresh guacamole and our homemade white queso and you have a great start to a great meal! Try our Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Fajitas, Aaron’s Overstuffed Burrito, Nachos Supreme or one of our Daily Specials, we have something everyone will enjoy! We serve Lunch 7 days a week till 4 P.M. and our Kids Meals come with a drink and dessert. Check out our menu on our website. Our outdoor patio is perfect for “Para Cenar Afuera”. So, won’t you please come join us and Get Full At The Bull! See you there!

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. Order online or download our APP PIESANOSTOGO.COM.

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.

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COMMU NIT Y C A LENDA R

M a r ch / A p r i l 2 0 2 0

Mid-Century Modern Home Tour Saturday, March 21

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the best of Gainesville’s architectural past between 1945 and 1975.

FASHION SHOW AND GARDEN PARTY

Thursday, March 5 at 10am 1350 NW 75th St.

GAINESVILLE - P resented by the Gainesville Garden Club. Fashions this year from Haven Hospice Attic will include clothing for both men and women. All proceeds of the event will be donated to Haven Hospice. Tickets must be purchased in advance by February 16th. For more information contact Mary at GGCFashionShow@ yahoo.com or visit fb.com/gvillegardenclub.

PAUL TAYLOR DANCE COMPANY

Friday, March 6 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - P aul Taylor changed the world of dance when he first presented his choreography in Manhattan on May 30, 1954. That performance launched 60 years of unrivaled creativity that forged his status as a cultural icon and one of history’s most celebrated artists, hailed as part of the pantheon that created American modern dance. Mr. Taylor’s legacy lives on with this world-renowned dance company, which features

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some of today’s finest dancers performing his brilliant works. performingarts.ufl.edu

ALICE’S ADVENTURES

Saturday, March 7 at 4pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - S un Country Dance Theatre presents their “12th Annual Spring Youth Concert,” featuring the original story ballet, “Alice’s Adventures.” This enchanting ballet follows Alice as she encounters many strange and unique characters. Truly a memorable experience to be enjoyed by the entire family. performingarts.ufl.edu

KATSU CHALLENGE

Sunday, March 8 at 9am Exactech Arena, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr.

GAINESVILLE - T he Katsu Challenge is an official qualifier for the USA Karate National Championships. All athletes that compete will be qualified to compete at Nationals. USA Karate is the only governing body for sport karate recognized by the US Olympic Committee. gainesvillesportscommission.com

INSPIRING WOMEN LEADERS CONFERENCE

Sunday, March 8 from 1 - 3pm Hilton UF Conference Center, 1714 SW 34th St.

GAINESVILLE - T his three-day event will provide the opportunity for personal and professional development, along with interactive pre-conference workshops focusing on dynamic and impactful leadership skills. Learn from leaders in diverse fields, participate in important discussions, share your personal stories and inspire the leader inside. visitgainesville.com

NAREK HAKHNAZARYAN, CELLO

Sunday, March 8 at 2pm & 7:30pm Squitieri Studio Theatre, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - After countless requests to bring this incredible cellist back to Gainesville after his spellbinding encore performance with the Moscow State Symphony in 2017. Finally, the stars have aligned. Narek will be joined by frequent collaborator Noreen Polera, a pianist who ranks among the most highly-regarded chamber artists performing today. performingarts.ufl.edu

AARON DIEHL TRIO

Wednesday, March 11 at 7pm & 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - O ne of the most sought-after jazz pianists today is playing UpStage. His meticulously thought-out performances, collaborations, and compositions are a leading force in today’s generation of jazz contemporaries. performingarts.ufl.edu

FLORIDA’S FEMALE PIONEERS

Thursday, March 12 from 7pm - 8:30pm Matheson Museum, 513 E University Ave.

GAINESVILLE - I n this presentation, author and historian Dr. Peggy Macdonald examines some of the women who have shaped Florida, including: Dr. Esther Hill Hawks, Harriet Beecher Stowe and many more. A book signing will follow her presentation. mathesonmuseum.org

INDIA FEST 2020

Saturday, March 14 from 9:30am - 5:30pm Bo Diddley Plaza

GAINESVILLE - I ndia Fest is a taste of the food, culture, music, dance and tradition that is India.

Good for all ages. ENTRY FREE FOR ALL. bodiddleyplaza.com

CAN YOU DIG IT?

Saturday, March 14 from 10am - 3pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Dig into geology and discover the Earth at your feet! Enjoy hands-on activities and watch demonstrations of volcanic eruptions.

Explore the Museum and check out displays and activities on geology, fossils, gems, minerals and much more from Florida and around the world! A free, fun event for all ages! floridamuseum.ufl.edu

SPRING CONCERT FOLLOWED BY THE WIZ

Saturday, March 14 at 1:30pm & 7pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - D anscompany presents their Spring Concert. performingarts.ufl.edu

THE ORIGINAL GAINESVILLE FOOD TRUCK RALLY

Saturday, March 14 at 5pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Benefitting Aces in Motion. Food trucks from across the area and beyond will be serving up unique, gourmet-style fare! Vegan and vegetarian options available. Expanded event layout, NEW VENDORS including old favorites and new delights and a FREE concert taking place at High Dive. highdivegainesville.com

STORY:GNV Conference Sat., March 14 from 10am - 4pm The Cade Museum, 811 South Main St. GAINESVILLE - STORY:GNV is Gainesville’s first conference designed to build our community through capitalizing on the power of stories to improve the way we grow ourselves, connect with others and conduct business. Storytelling is a powerful tool for growth and its potential for great impact is resonant within the Gainesville community. storygnv.com

CONSERVATION STEWARD AWARDS

Saturday, March 14 from 5:30 - 9:30pm Prairie Creek Preserve Lodge, 7204 SE CR 234

GAINESVILLE - T he Conservation Steward Awards is one of the largest gatherings of community leaders and conservationists in the region, and features a cocktail hour, dinner, awards ceremony and live music. You don’t want to miss Florida’s biggest conservation event of the year! alachuaconservationtrust.org

Y-NOT THEATRE: “MURDER AT THE CASINO” Saturday, March 14 from 6 - 10pm Cypress & Grove Brewing, 1001 NW 4th St.

GAINESVILLE - A ll attendees will be a part of the mystery. Upon entrance of the event, each attendee will receive 2 envelopes with clues and character traits. Become immersed in the mystery as you try to solve the clues and prove “who dun-nit” in this original murder mystery script. Characters are based on the original play “Halloween Moon Rising,” written

by Kelby Siddons. There will be light refreshments, a silent auction and casino themed games. visitgainesville.com

ZACH DEPUTY

Saturday, March 14 from 8 - 11pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - F or his fourth album, the Georgiabased singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist mined his Puerto Rican and Cruzan heritage for inspiration. Zach Deputy dreamed up a sunny and soulful new sound that fuses hip-hop, funk, and folky pop with the spirited rhythms of soca and calypso for “Wash It in the Water.” heartwoodsoundstage.com

GAINESVILLE MODERN WEEK

March 14 - 21 ​Various locations

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville Modern’s traditional weekend of events has grown to a full week!

The week will include a range of educational and social programming leading up to the highly-regarded and anticipated 7th Annual Mid-Century Modern Home Tour – showcasing area homes that embody the architectural innovation which defines the post-war era (1945-1975). Mid-century enthusiasts can enjoy a range of other events including presentations, lectures, walking tours and an upscale VIP party. Visit the website for more information and tickets. gainesvillemodern.org

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FLORIDA VINTAGE MARKET

Sunday, March 15 from 12 - 5pm Bo Diddley Plaza

GAINESVILLE - The Florida Vintage Market is a unique shopping experience in the heart of Gainesville where you will enjoy a variety of vendors curating some of the best in vintage garments, jewelry, handmade goods, art, food, and more! Presented by Gazzelli Sport Vintage. bodiddleyplaza.com

HUMAN FOOSBALL TOURNAMENT

Sunday, March 15 from 1 - 5pm Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - N ever played? It’s a lot like soccer, but you stay in one place, holding a bar that moves left/right within an arena. This charitable event is for a great cause–chromosome disorder research and outreach by Xtraordinary Joy. trinitygnv.org

COMMUNITY ARTS FEST

Sunday, March 15 from 2 - 5:30pm Thelma Boltin Center, 516 NE 2 Ave.

GAINESVILLE - T he Arts join together for an afternoon of music, dancing, acting and art.

The orchestra workshop is free to all of the community of Gainesville. Anyone with an acoustic instrument (all levels/all ages) is welcome to play with the orchestra: to rehearse a piece together and then to perform that piece as part of a combined performance with the Star Center Theatre and Caring and Sharing school. 2:00pm orchestra workshop. 3:30pm performance. annasemble.org

WILLY PORTER

Sunday, March 15 from 7 - 10pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - W illy blurs the line between indie folk and rock with his searing signature finger-picking guitar sound, absorbing lyrics, and playful, high-energy live performance style. He has shared world stages with music icons Jeff Beck, Tori Amos, and Paul Simon, carving out a successful solo career. heartwoodsoundstage.com

ST. PATRICK’S DAY AT CYPRESS & GROVE

Tuesday, March 17 from 3 - 10pm Cypress & Grove Brewing, 1001 NW 4th St.

GAINESVILLE - C ome celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a release of an Irish Red Ale and a dry Nitro Stout! The Williston School of Dance performance and the Mourning Glories playing music. cypressandgrove.com 138 |

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Paula Poundstone

Friday, March 20 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd. GAINESVILLE - K nown for her smart, laugh-out-loud observational humor and spontaneous wit, Paula Poundstone is one of our country’s preeminent comedians, packing venues across the country. Fans of NPR’s No. 1 show, the comedy news quiz, “Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me!,” will be very familiar with her razor-sharp wisecracks, as Poundstone is one of the show’s most popular panelists. performingarts.ufl.edu

UNIVERSITY PRESS OF FLORIDA 75TH ANNIVERSARY OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, March 19 from 9:30am - 4:30pm George A. Smathers Library, 1545 W University Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Stop by this free event at any time for a book sale of titles published by the University Press of Florida and University of Florida Press; speaker panels featuring authors, press staff, and guests; displays and activities providing information about book publishing; giveaways and door prizes; and birthday cake. cms.uflib.ufl.edu

WOMAN’S WORK: CONSERVING WILD FLORIDA

Thursday, March 19 from 6:30 - 8pm Prairie Creek Preserve Lodge, 7204 SE CR 234

GAINESVILLE - T he Marjorie is an environmental reporting nonprofit inspired by Florida’s three Marjories: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, and Marjorie Harris Carr. In this presentation, Hannah Brown will share some of her favorite lessons from the three Marjories and show examples of how those lessons have inspired us to move beyond daily news coverage

to capture untold perspectives of environmental issues in Florida. alachuaconservationtrust.org

ANDREW COLLINS TRIO

Thursday, March 19 at 7pm & 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - For those in the know, calling Andrew Collins a master of the mandolin is a major understatement. Smack dab in the epicenter of Canada’s burgeoning acoustic roots music scene, Collins has gathered innumerable awards and gained a reputation for dynamic, genre-hopping live performances full of energy and captivating vocals. performingarts.ufl.edu

MUSCADINE BLOODLINE

Thursday, March 19 at 8pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - U napologetically Alabama.

There’s a new force making major waves in country music. Natives of Mobile Alabama, Gary Stanton and Charlie Muncaster came together to form Muscadine Bloodline in early 2016. Nashville took notice the first time these two stepped on the stage and it’s no surprise the rest of the music world is quickly catching on. highdivegainesville.com

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HAVANA NIGHTS: SALSA WITH ELIO PIEDRA

March 20 & April 17 at 10pm The Wooly, 20 N Main St.

GAINESVILLE - B ring your rhythm and party feet to the dance floor as DJ Elio Piedra brings the fiesta to The Wooly every month in 2020!

Vibrant dance floors and a specialty drink will be available to keep the party going all night long! Bring your friends and get ready to chacha-cha! thewoolygainesville.com

GAINESVILLE NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL

Friday, March 20-22 Alachua Fairgrounds, 3100 NE 39th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - The Gainesville Native American Festival comes alive with traditional dancing, music and art. come be a part of this one of a kind festival that not only entertains, but educates. Join us in our dances, learn to build a fire the primitive way and see the beauty of our handmade arts & crafts. gainesvillenativeamericanfest.com

SHAKE YOUR HONEY MAKER 5K

Saturday, March 21 at 8:30 am Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - T he fourth annual Florida Museum 5K race will be a combination of trails in the UF Natural Area Teaching Laboratory and campus roads. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

2020 GATOR FLY-IN AND ARMED SERVICES APPRECIATION DAY

Saturday, March 21 from 10am - 3pm University Air Center, 4701 NE 40th Ter.

GAINESVILLE - A fly-in is a gathering for pilots who arrive by air. The event is open to the public, honors all branches of the military, and includes static and military aircraft displays, classic cars, children’s activities, live music, vendors, food trucks and vintage aircraft, helicopter and airplane rides (for a fee.) Admission and parking are free, and a shuttle bus will operate between parking areas. visitgainesville.com

7 TH ANNUAL MID-CENTURY MODERN HOME TOUR Saturday, March 21 from 11am - 4pm Various Locations

GAINESVILLE - F ive-plus area homes will open their doors for Gainesville Modern’s most recognized event. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the best of Gainesville’s architectural past between 1945 and 1975. gainesvillemodern.org 140 |

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MALPASO DANCE COMPANY

Saturday, March 21 at 7:30pm SF Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - E mphasizing a collaborative creative process, Malpaso is committed to working with top international choreographers while also nurturing new voices in Cuban choreography. sfcollege.edu/finearts

MARBIN

Saturday, March 21 from 8 - 11pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - MARBIN is a progressive jazzrock band based in Chicago, IL, with a unique story that stands out in today’s music world. With a do-it-yourself approach, Marbin started touring extensively in 2011. heartwoodsoundstage.com

SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL

March 21 & 22 from 9am - 5pm Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

GAINESVILLE - T his is Gainesville’s premier horticultural event. The Spring Garden Festival features about 125 booths offering plants, landscape displays, garden accessories, arts and crafts, educational exhibits and food. Also featured are live entertainment and live auctions. The children’s area is included with the admission price and includes potting up a plant to take home, a photo opportunity, a bean bag toss, and many arts and crafts. kanapaha.org

SCIART MEETUP: WOMEN SCIENTIFIC ILLUSTRATORS

Tuesday, March 24 from 6:30 - 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - A rtists and designers are invited to a presentation on influential female scientific illustrators throughout history. Admission includes a working studio space and after-hours entry to all permanent exhibits. Artists must bring their own supplies. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

EVA SCHLOSS

Tuesday, March 24 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Eva Schloss, stepsister of Anne Frank, will be traveling from London to share her story of triumph and survival. Since 1985, Eva Schloss has devoted herself to holocaust education and global peace. In 1999 Eva signed the Anne Frank Peace Declaration along with United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan and the niece of Raul Wallenberg, a legendary figure who rescued thousands of Jews in Budapest. performingarts.ufl.edu

CELEBRATING MORE THAN HOMES BANQUET

Friday, March 27 from 6 - 10pm Hotel Indigo, 5020 SW 30th Ln.

GAINESVILLE - E njoy an elegant evening of fine food and great company. Donors, guests, board members and Habitat homeowners will come together to celebrate the positive impact Alachua Habitat for Humanity has made on this community since 1985. alachuahabitat.org/event

GAINESVILLE ORCHESTRA: EVANS HAILE AND FRIENDS

Friday, March 27 from 7:30 - 9:30pm Santa Fe Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - T he Gainesville Orchestra’s annual soirée of humor, stories and delicious music.

Bring a friend! 352-395-4181 sfcollege.edu/finearts

VOLUNTEER WORK DAY: TRAIL CLEANUP

Saturday, March 28 from 9am - 12pm Meeting Location TBD

GAINESVILLE - Join ACT at Fox Pen Preserve for a volunteer work day conducting trail maintenance.

This work day is open to all interested volunteers.

RSVP required. alachuaconservationtrust.org

SANTA FE COLLEGE SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL

March 28 & 29 (times vary by day) Downtown

GAINESVILLE - F un and inspiration for the whole family. Artist booths line the streets, with music and dance performances held at the Actor’s Warehouse and at the outdoor stage. Admission is free for all ages. visitgainesville.com

4TH ANNUAL PUP RUCK 5K RUN/WALK Sunday, March 29 from 8 - 10am Depot Park, 874 SE 4th St.

GAINESVILLE - Bring your dog, family, friends, and rucksack to support Service Dogs for Patriots!

This family-friendly event helps raise funds for the only service dog training organization in North Central Florida that pairs a rescued dog with a veteran battling PTSD and trains them together as a team from start to finish. depotpark.org

VERONA QUARTET

Sunday, March 29 at 2pm University Auditorium, 333 Newell Dr.

GAINESVILLE - W ith four members hailing from four different nations—the USA, the UK, Singapore, and Canada—this ensemble has gained a reputation for its rich and focused sonic palette. performingarts.ufl.edu

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‘Museum for Me’

Sensory-friendly Event Sunday, April 5 from 10am - 1pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd. GAINESVILLE - A dults and children on the autism spectrum, including their friends, families and caregivers, are invited to visit the museum before-hours. This special opportunity allows participants to explore at their own pace in a peaceful and less-crowded environment. In addition, a separate quiet space will be available to decompress or desensitize. All members of the autism spectrum disorder community are invited to attend. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

BIKE HISTORY TOUR OF UF

Sunday, March 29 from 2 - 4pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - The Florida Public Archaeology Network will lead a free, family-friendly Historic Bike Tour. Learn about the archaeological sites and historic features on UF campus. Pre-registration is required. Guests must bring their own bikes. 352-273-2062 floridamuseum.ufl.edu

UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN

Tuesday, March 31 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - This group comprised entirely of ukuleles has been enjoying a successful career spanning over 30 years! These “ukes” delight, inspire, and surprise audiences with their dizzyingly diverse repertoire and whimsical sense of humor. Their performances even include a bit of audience participation. So bring your ukulele, and get ready to be a part of the show! performingarts.ufl.edu

THEATRE FOR THOUGHT

April 2-4 at 7pm Squitieri Studio Theatre, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - T he newly minted “Theatre for Thought” series will present internationally-acclaimed solo performers, who engage serious subjects with humor, intelligence and insight.

Theatre can do so much. It can entertain, transport, or challenge – that’s Theatre for Thought – and it’s coming to our stage. Visit performingarts.ufl.edu for more information on planned performances each day.

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FLORIDA MUSEUM PLANT SALE

April 3-5 (times vary) Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - A large plant sale with more than 150 species of difficult-to-find and pollinator-friendly plants. Accent, host, native and nectar plants will be available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the museum’s “Butterfly Rainforest” exhibit. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

BALLET & BEYOND!

Friday, April 3 from 7:30 - 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - D azzling ballet bumps up against social issues in this final program of the season.

Dance Alive dancers work their magic and create an evening never to be forgotten. dancealive.org

OLE’ CHILI COOK-OFF & SPRINGS CELEBRATION

Saturday, April 4 from 9am - 1pm O’Leno State Park, 410 SE Oleno Park Rd.

HIGH SPRINGS - E xperience the beauty of the Santa Fe River and treat your taste buds at the chili cook-off and springs celebration! friendsofoleno.org

NEWBERRY HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS BENEFIT

Saturday, April 4 from 11am - 3pm Newberry Auto Repair, 752 NW 250th Dr.

NEWBERRY - A utoER proudly presents a Community Appreciation Event. All proceeds to benefit the NHS Athletics Dept. Enjoy family fun activities, food, prizes, music, raffles, Space Walk, vendor booths & more! fb.com/TheAutoER

WAITRESS

Monday, April 6 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - M eet Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage. Pouring her heart into her pies, she crafts desserts that mirror her topsy-turvy life such as “The Key (Lime) to Happiness Pie” and “Betrayed By My Eggs Pie.” Brought to life by a groundbreaking, all-female creative team, this Tony® Awardnominated hit features original music and lyrics. performingarts.ufl.edu

FILM SCREENING: LOST SPRINGS

Tuesday, April 7 from 6 - 8:30 Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Film screening and panel discussions about the importance and conservation of our state’s water with “Lost Springs.” Attendees can take part in an engaging discussion and meet local organizations. The event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

CITRUS CUP REGIONAL HORSE SHOW

April 8 - April 11 Alachua Equestrian Center, 23100 W Newberry Rd.

NEWBERRY - Morgan, American Saddlebred and Open Breed Championship horse show sponsored by the Florida Morgan Horse Association with classes for every discipline. Main ring, carriage driving, dressage, and jumping. No admission fee – spectators are welcome. fmha.net

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EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA!

Saturday, April 11 from 9am - 12pm Haile Village Center Square

GAINESVILLE - E njoy a fun-filled family Easter egg hunt in the Haile Village Center. All ages welcome! hvcoa.com

TREE FEST 2020

Saturday, April 11 from 1 - 11pm Swamp Head Brewery, 3650 SW 42nd Ave.

Hogtown Craft Beer Festival Sat., April 25 from 12 - 5pm

THE SHODDY BEATLES

Saturday, April 11 at 9pm The Wooly, 20 N Main St.

Alachua Fairgrounds, 3100 NE 39th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - T he Shoddy Beatles Live! at The Wooly. Doors open at 9, show starts at 10pm! thewoolygainesville.com

GAINESVILLE - E njoy great beer and food, and learn more about the amazing diversity of beer produced at the local and regional level! Proceeds will support several local charities including ACT! hogtownbeerfest.com

FIELDWORK FAILS: A LIVE STORYTELLING EVENT

SPRING WINDS

Thursday, April 9 from 7:30 - 9:30pm Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - F or an enchanting musical evening, join us for the SF Spring Winds concert presenting an evening of traditional concert band classics featuring solo performers and small ensembles all under the direction of Dr. David Smith. sfcollege.edu

UF WIND SYMPHONY CONCERT

April 9 at 7:30pm University Auditorium, 333 Newell Dr.

GAINESVILLE - Under the direction of Dr. David Waybright, the Wind Symphony is the University of Florida’s premier performing ensemble. The ensemble meets throughout the year and is comprised of 55 of the school’s top undergraduate and graduate wind and percussion performers. ufbands.com 144 |

GAINESVILLE - T ree Fest celebrates the environment by raising money to plant trees with the Alachua Conservation Trust in an event that features food trucks, family-friendly activities, live music, and of course, Swamp Head beer. 5 trees will be planted for every beer purchased during Tree Fest, 20 trees for every Tree Fest T-Shirt bought, and all sponsor donations will increase total trees planted. treefestfl.com

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

March/April 2020

Thursday, April 16 from 6 - 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - In partnership with Guts & Glory GNV, this event features original and true, first-person storytelling. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Attendees must be 18 years or older. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE

Thursday, April 16 at 7:30pm Exactech Arena, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr.

GAINESVILLE - T he Price Is Right Live™ is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to hear their names called and “Come On Down” to win. Prizes may include appliances, vacations and possibly a new car! Play classic games just like on television’s longest running and most popular game show… from Plinko™ to Cliffhangers™ to The Big Wheel™ and even the fabulous Showcase. oconnellcenter.ufl.edu

JAZZ UP SPRING

Thursday, April 16 from 7:30 - 9:30pm Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - E njoy a cool spring concert of hot jazz featuring the SF Jazz Band under the direction of Dr. Steve Bingham. sfcollege.edu

COMPAGNIA TPO: FARFALLE

April 17-19 Squitieri Studio Theatre, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - F un for the young and the young at heart! Farfalle is an interactive visual feast that follows the exciting journey of a caterpillar as it morphs into a beautiful butterfly. Compagnia TPO of Prato, Italy uses movement, video, sound and interactive technology, providing an immersive experience that ignites all of the senses. performingarts.ufl.edu

PLANT EXPO

Saturday, April 18 from 8am - 12pm Persimmon Farm, 17010 W. Newberry Rd.

JONESVILLE - Newberry Garden Club’s annual fundraiser to support community projects and scholarship funds. Flowers of all kinds, bulbs, shrubs, trees and fruit & vegetable plants. new.gainesvillenursery.com

EARTH DAY: DAWN TO DUSK CELEBRATION

Saturday, April 18 from 7am - 8:30pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - C elebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! The international theme for this year is Climate Action. This daylong event is presented in partnership with the University of Florida Thompson Earth Systems Institute and features activities at the Museum as well as around Gainesville. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

SPRING PARADE OF HOMES™

April 18-19 & 25-26 from 12 - 5pm Various Locations

GAINESVILLE - The Parade showcases the latest in home design and décor with the most up-to-date energy saving construction techniques and the newest in land development. Each Parade Home is a collective effort of numerous people who combine their talents and resources to show the public the newest ideas in the housing industry. bancf.com

SCIART MEETUP: BOOK AND PAPERMAKING

Tuesday, April 21 from 6:30 - 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - A rtists and designers are invited to a presentation about the art of book and papermaking and how it can be used in science. Admission includes a working studio space and after-hours entry to all permanent exhibits. Artists must bring their own supplies. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

Networking with a cause We are a Christian based networking group that is truly built on a foundation of generosity. We’re not just sharing referrals here, we’re giving back to our community!

Meetings every Tues. @ Noon at Westside Baptist Church 10000 W. Newberry Rd. 2nd Floor

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56th Annual Old Florida Celebration of the Arts

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JURIED ARTS FESTIVAL WELCOMING 120 FINE ARTISTS AND ARTISANS

April 4 & 5 Cedar Key

Sat: 10-5 Sun: 10-4

Great Food, Music & Kids Activities Artist Demonstrations on Both Days Family-Friendly and FREE for Everyone!

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WUFT PRESENTS: A MUSIC FESTIVAL WITH ETHAN BORTNICK

Saturday, April 25 from 12 - 10pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - J oin, International superstar, Ethan Bortnick, as he presents some of Gainesville’s most incredible musicians. Spend the day listening to all genres of music and at the end of the evening, you will enjoy the incredible music of Ethan Bortnick. A portion of the proceeds will support WUFT (PBS TV). heartwoodsoundstage.com

Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale

April 25-29 (times vary) 430 N. Main St. GAINESVILLE - Book sale to benefit Alachua County Library System literacy programs. Browse thousands of books, artwork, comics, manga, software, DVDs, vinyl records and much more. Cash or check only. 352-375-1676 folacld.org

LEELA DANCE COLLECTIVE: SPEAK

Tuesday, April 21 at 7:30 pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - O nce separated by ages and continents, SPEAK unites Indian Kathak dance and American tap in a celebration of rhythm, poetry, storytelling and music. SPEAK promises to thrill, provoke, and move your spirit. performingarts.ufl.edu

UF SYMPHONIC BAND CONCERT

April 21 at 7:30pm University Auditorium, 333 Newell Dr.

GAINESVILLE - T he UF Symphonic Band, under the direction of Professor Jay Watkins, is designed for undergraduate music and non-music majors. The 60-member ensemble frequently performs challenging literature in a variety of musical styles on campus and throughout the state of Florida. ufbands.com

UF CONCERT BANDS CONCERT

April 22 at 7:30pm University Auditorium, 333 Newell Dr.

GAINESVILLE - T he Concert Bands, under the direction of Dr. Chip Birkner, are for University of Florida students. They meet during the spring semester and are comprised primarily of non-music majors. ufbands.com 146 |

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SHABBATONES CHORUS

Thursday, April 23 from 7 - 8:30pm The Thomas Center, 306 NE 6th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - T he program will feature the choral performance of the Shabbatones Choir led by Dr. Will Kesling. Selections from ancient to modern and from many continents and languages; English, German, Spanish, Hebrew and Ladino. Guest artists include Prof Paul Richards who will perform several prayers he composed for piano and voice. visitgainesville.com

SING INTO SPRING

Thursday, April 23 from 7:30 - 9:30pm Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - A true variety chorale with different types of music from different eras. Directed

by Lynn Sandefur. sfcollege.edu

SHANA TUCKER

Friday, April 24 at 7pm & 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - “ ChamberSoul.” That’s how this incredible cellist and singer-songwriter describes her unique music, which weaves jazz, classical, soulful folk, acoustic pop, and a touch of R&B into a distinctive rhythmic tapestry. This intimate UpStage performance will feature the perfect mix of Tucker’s smooth, lyrical originals, as well as unique reinterpretations of songs you know by heart. performingarts.ufl.edu

DALA

Saturday, April 25 at 7pm & 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - D ala’s velvety folk-pop warms the soul. Wholesome, genuine and uplifting, Amanda Walther and Sheila Carabine’s signature harmonies define this best-friend duo’s unmistakable sound. performingarts.ufl.edu

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: ANNIE GRIFFITHS

Sunday, April 26 at 2pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - A fter a career covering all of the weird and wonderful facets of humanity in more than 100 countries, Annie Griffiths is excited to come speak about how she has turned her creative energies toward supporting programs that empower women and children in the developing world. performingarts.ufl.edu

VOICES RISING SPRING CONCERT

Sunday, April 26 from 3 - 7pm 419 NE 1st St.

GAINESVILLE - The Spring Concert will feature a variety of music with three main themes. A suggested donation is $10 to $20 and a portion of all proceeds will benefit the Kids Count in Alachua County after school program. vrccgainesville.org

FOX PEN PRESERVE GRAND OPENING

Saturday, May 2 from 10am - 1pm Holden Park Rd.

HAWTHORNE - I n partnership with Alachua County, ACT purchased Fox Pen in early 2019.

These 578 acres of land in eastern Alachua County are part of a key tract in the Lockloosa Forest project area and provides a habitat for a diversity of wildlife, including Florida black bear, within the Orange Creek Basin, which also includes several outstanding Florida waterways. alachuaconservationtrust.org

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Run The Good Race RACE AIMS TO HELP HUMAN TRAFFICKING VICTIMS

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raising over $80,000 towards supplies for undreds of spirited runners will the refugees on the Syrian/Iraqi border. head over to the NFRMC Cancer Center on Saturday morning, April 11th “Two years ago we changed our focus to human trafficking,” says Dr. Peter Sarantos, for the 5th Annual “Run the Good Race”.

The 5K/10K walk/Run hosted by local host of Run the Good Race. “Kathy was in surgeon, Dr. Peter Sarantos and his wife, Thailand with World Help in 2016 visiting Pediatrician, Dr. Kathy Sarantos, is a fun, a home for women trying to escape from family-friendly event. Teaming up with this bondage and the experience opened World Help, a humanitarian organization her eyes to the magnitude of the problem.” as well as Created Gainesville, a local “As before,” Dr. Peter Sarantos outreach program for women, the event brings awareness and fundraises for aid continued, “Kathy and I cover all of the race expenses. We to the victims of Human Trafficking.

Alison Ungaro, Founder of the Gaines- believe that this is a worthy ville chapter of Created, “We are excit- cause and want to assure ed to be a part of “Run the Good Race” that every dollar raised goes again this year with the Sarantos family, bringing awareness to this cause, mak- directly to the cause.”

“Before the race, a speaker from ing sure women locally and around the world get the opportunity for healing World Help explains their mission and how the funds are diand restoration.”

The race course runs rectly applied to the around the campus of people in need. CreNFRMC and the neighated Director, Alison borhoods behind the Ungaro will also speak hospital. “There aren’t about their local orgamany hills so it’s a great nization. It really helps course to walk or run.” the participants of the reports Allegra Shoulrace to understand how ders, who has run the important and appreevent for the last three ciated their support is,” years and has registered says Carol Ellis, the race to participate again this organizer. “I also think year. “It’s great if you want to come out it’s great to see how many kids particiand run on a nice spring morning for an pate in the run, many of which know Dr. important cause.”

Sarantos as just ‘Dr. Kathy’, who makes The first two years, the event fundraised them feel better when they’re sick. It for World Help’s Refugee Aid program, makes for a special day.”

The race is open for registrations online or on race day, beginning at 6:30am at the NFRMC Cancer Center. Both the 5K and 10K begin at 8AM on Saturday, April 11th.

www.rungoodrace.com March/April 2020

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VOLUNTEER WORK DAY: INVASIVE PLANT REMOVAL

Sunday, May 3 from 9 - 11am Idylwild Elementary, 4601 SW 20th Ter.

HIGH SPRINGS MUSIC IN THE PARK & CONCERT SERIES

Third Sundays from 2pm - 4pm James Paul Park, Downtown High Springs

GAINESVILLE - J oin ACT at Serenola Forest Preserve for a volunteer work day removing invasive plants. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. Bring water, snacks, bug spray, sunscreen and hat. Gloves will be provided, but feel free to bring your own! This work day is open to all interested volunteers. RSVP required. alachuaconservationtrust.org

HIGH SPRINGS - B ringing exceptional artists to the Downtown High Springs! Events are free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, etc. Dogs permitted on a leash. highspringsmusicinthepark.com

GAINESVILLE ORCHESTRA: POPS

GAINESVILLE - T his 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. bit.ly/EnglishCountry

Friday, May 8 from 7:30 - 9:30pm Santa Fe Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - Celebrate spring with the spectacular finale of POP’S favorites, and the exciting walk through the orchestra and much more!

352-395-4181 sfcollege.edu/finearts

WINDSOR ZUCCHINI FESTIVAL

Saturday, May 9 from 9am - 4pm 1401 County Road 234

WINDSOR - T his hometown gathering will include an arts and crafts show with over 100 vendors, zucchini-carving and cooking contests, plant sale, Plant-a-Pot of flowers for Mother’s Day, general store, BIG raffle, live music, children’s activities including pony rides, inflatables, games and a Kids Fireman Challenge. Take a 20-minute ride with the family to the “Zucchini Capital of the World.” for a day of fun. windsor-z-news.org

ICE CREAM IN THE PARK

Saturday, May 9 from 1 - 3pm Rockwood Park, 2221 NW 22nd St.

GAINESVILLE - Join ACT for an ice cream social at Rockwood Park in central Gainesville. This event is free and open to the public – the only thing you need to bring is your appetite. Vegan options will also be available. alachuaconservationtrust.org

RECURRING EVENTS CONTRA DANCE

First Sundays & Third Saturdays Thelma A. Boltin Center, 516 NE 2nd Ave

GAINESVILLE - C ontra 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 148 |

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ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCE

Mondays 6:45 – 9pm 1624 NW 5th Avenue

FREE ART WORKSHOP

First Tuesdays from 4:30 - 6:30pm UF HealthStreet, 2401 SW Archer Rd.

GAINESVILLE - A nArtists, a volunteer group which advocates that doing art is healthy for everyone, offers a free workshop for all adults (no experience necessary). Plenty of free parking on site. Local artists are invited to take part in leading the workshop! anartistsgainesville.com

FUN WITH FLOWERS

Third Tuesdays at 10am Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St

GAINESVILLE - H ands-on floral design program includes lecture, demonstration and materials.

Coffee social at 9:30 am. RSVP requested: rsvp.ggcfl@gmail.com OR ggcfl.org

MARY’S HIGH TEA AT SWEETWATER BRANCH INN

Third Tuesdays from 3pm - 5pm Sweetwater Branch Inn, 625 E University Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Traditionally served on a 3 tiered stand, includes Sweetwater Branch’s savory and sweet treats paired with your choice of teas and coffees. Please call for reservations 352-373-6760. sweetwaterinn.com

UNION STREET FARMERS MARKET

Wednesdays from 4pm – 7pm Bo Diddley Plaza

GAINESVILLE - B ring a bag and pick up some locally-grown and produced vegetables, meat and dairy to take home for your kitchen.

There’s also food trucks and live entertainment — all in a family-friendly atmosphere. unionstreetfarmersmkt.com

GENTLE MOTION

Thursdays from 10 - 11am 2205 NW 40th Terrace

GAINESVILLE - G entle Motions classes for seniors on Thursdays at Crown Pointe Senior Healthcare Center in Gainesville. Contact Paul Gebhart at 352-379-6124 for info.

PRIMETIME EDUCATION SERIES

Thursdays from 2:30 - 4pm Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd.

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 primetimeinstitute.org

THIRD THURSDAY ON MAIN

Third Thursdays from 5 – 9pm Downtown Main Street

ALACHUA - T his is the perfect event to get your “pre-weekend” on! Alachua’s Downtown area comes alive with the sound of music, unique dining, shopping, craft vendors and so much more! Come experience all of this in, and along, the city’s iconic and historic, winding Main Street. This event is sponsored by the City of Alachua Community Redevelopment Agency. cityofalachua.com

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET

Fridays from noon – 4pm First Saturday each month from 9am – 1pm 115 NE Railroad Avenue

HIGH SPRINGS - F lorida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy & meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. highsprings.us/farmersmarket

DOWNTOWN DRAG

First & Third Fridays from 11pm - 1am Maude’s Cafe, Downtown

GAINESVILLE - D rag and burlesque unite to enchant and amaze! Downtown Drag is hosted at Maude’s SideCar Bar next to the Hippodrome in downtown Gainesville. Bring your friends, your dollar bills, and your cellphones to come insta our queens and show the world what a great time you had! Get there early, grab a cocktail, and get the best seat. All proceeds go to performers! fb.com/DowntownDrag

HIGH SPRINGS FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT

First Fridays from 5pm - 8pm Downtown

HIGH SPRINGS - J oin the fun in lovely downtown High Springs. Local merchants will offer special sales, a raffle and more. Family fun for all ages. Friday First is a monthly event produced by High Springs downtown merchants in cooperation with the City of High Springs Community Redevelopment Agency. fb.com/HighSpringsDowntownMerchants

LOCAL PLAYWRIGHTS FORUM

First Fridays from 8 - 10pm First Magnitude Brewing, 1220 SE Veitch St.

GAINESVILLE - In an effort to serve local playwrights better, Y-Not Theatre is starting a new local playwrights forum. It is a chance to share questions, concerns, updates and information.

If you consider yourself a playwright then join the gathering. Free and open to the public. fb.com/ynottheatre

NIGHT IN THE GARDEN

Third Fridays from 6:30 - 9:30pm Green House Nursery, 15207 W Newberry Rd

NEWBERRY - Bring your friends and meet some new ones! Come on out and enjoy a live local band and a stroll through the picturesque gardens.

Aside from the plants, trees, flowers, etc, visitors can enjoy seeing specially decorated displays, fountains, ponds, and much more. Enjoy fun and games, food trucks, music and more! tghnfl.com

ARTWALK GAINESVILLE

Last Fridays from 7pm - 10pm Downtown

GAINESVILLE - A rtwalk 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

GFAA GALLERY ART EXHIBIT

Last Fridays from 7pm - 10pm GFAA Gallery, 1314 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - T he GFAA Gallery presents members original art work for home, apartment or office. Monthly themes with opening exhibits at Artwalk and displayed throughout the month. Support your community artists and bring pleasure to your surroundings. Gallery open Tuesday-Saturday from 11am-6pm. gainesvillefinearts.org

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30am – 12pm 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. 441market.com

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HAILE FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30am – 12pm Haile Plantation Village

GAINESVILLE - T ake 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

DEPOT FAMILY DRUM CIRCLE

First Saturdays Depot Park, 874 SE 4th St.

GAINESVILLE - A family-friendly drum circle on top of The Hill, approximately 2 hours before sunset. Bring your shakers, bells, whistles, guitars, horns, banjos, anything that makes a sound.

There will also be a few hand drums, tambourines, and triangles to share. Dancers and hula-hoopers highly encouraged to join in the fun! This event is FREE and open to the public. All ages and leashed pets are welcome too. depotpark.org

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JAZZ ON THE GREEN

Second Saturdays from 7pm - 9pm Celebration Pointe

GAINESVILLE - R elax with live jazz while enjoying food, drinks, lawn games and more. In addition to Celebration Pointe’s restaurants, MidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza Company, Kilwins Gainesville, Decadent A Dessert And Coffee Bar – Gainesville, Florida and Miller’s Ale House – Gainesville, food options also include the Ahar – Homemade Indian Food, Cilantro Tacos, and Rollin Smoke BBQ food trucks. celebrationpointe.com

SEND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS TO: 440 0 N W 3 6 T H A V E ., G A I N E S V I L L E , F L 3 2606 or EVENTS@TOWERPUBLICATIONS.COM 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.

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COLUMN

FARM TALES

From Mother Hen MY READING RAINBOW

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.

ONE OF THE EARLIEST MEMORIES I HAVE IS SITTING ON MY MOTHER’S LAP AS SHE READ TO ME, SUNSHINE STREAMING THROUGH THE WINDOW AND A CAT CURLED UP BY OUR SIDE.

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eading has always been a source of comfort and contentment for me ever since. I had an extensive collection of Little Golden Books that occupied my hours as a little girl. Since I was an only child growing up in the country, I had to find ways to amuse myself. I started with those Little Golden Books, and rapidly graduated to more challenging titles. One of my preferred books as I began to branch out was “A Child’s Garden of Verses” by Robert Louis Stevenson. The poems and colorful illustrations were enchanting. Beatrix Potter’s “Tale of Peter Rabbit” as well as the adventures of Peter’s friends were also favorites. I read every book in this delightful series at our nearby town’s library.

The library was donated to our town by a grant from Andrew Carnegie in 1901. It was, and still is, an ornate and stately building with beautiful interior murals painted around the center dome. Just walking through the glass double doors felt like what I imagined heaven to be. I loved the quiet hush as the librarians whispered to one another. Also, there was a huge grandfather clock by the front door, which chimed softly on the quarter hour adding to the angelic atmosphere. During the cold fall and winter months, my mother would drop me off at the library while she did her errands. I went directly to the children’s section, picked out one of my favorites and found a cozy place to sit next to the fireplace. I felt right at home, and I nurtured a secret dream to write a book one day and have it

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added to the shelves of our library.

Another series of books I really enjoyed reading at the library was about a group of barnyard animals led by a pig named Freddy who went on many adventures, solving crimes, and even taking a ride in space. The books were written in the early 1950s by author Walter R. Brooks. I think I read them all, but my favorite was “Freddy and the Space Ship.” I loved to imagine space travel in the future, and the pages of that book took me there with Freddy.

As I said, the harsh weather in the Midwest kept me indoors most of the year. Even springtime was damp, cold and muddy out in the country, so playing outdoors wasn’t an option until well into May. Not to worry, though, because my books took me to places I only dreamed of and on adventures I could only imagine. At an unusually young age my favorite reading turned to “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I had my own copy of the complete

collection. I loved the short stories such as “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” and “The Red-Headed League” in addition to the longer novels like “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” It was so much fun joining Sherlock and Dr. Watson as they deduced “whodunit!” Many a dreary, cold and rainy weekend was spent in my room reading my Sherlock Holmes mysteries.

It may have been gloomy outside, but inside my room was a rainbow of colorful adventures.

As I grew up, my love of reading never left me. Only the titles changed. I remember reading “Gone With the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell while in high school. One of my close friends shook her head and asked me why I was reading a book with so many pages. I replied to her, after just finishing the last page, that the book wasn’t long enough! Anyone who reads that last sentence, when tearful Scarlett has finally realized it was Rhett she wanted all along, would want more.

I seem to have a knack of finding a good read just before someone makes a movie or television series out of it. One summer I delved into “The Thorn Birds” by Colleen McCullough, which transported me to Australia. “The Thorn Birds” later became a television series, as did “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon, which is now a popular series on STARZ. I never thought I’d travel to Scotland, but “Outlander” took me there. I also read “Gone Girl”

by Gillian Flynn and “The Girl on a Train” by Paula Hawkins before they became movies. And yes, like all of us who love to read would tell you, “the books are better.”

I cannot end my tale on reading without mentioning the book we all should read. The Bible. Each book of the Bible is full of action, intrigue and adventure, with a cast of hundreds—if not thousands. The people within these pages, along with their messages of hope, reach out to us at different times of our lives.

A passage you may have missed or not understood the first time you read it might just have an answer you’ve been searching for upon a second reading. When you read the Bible in your quiet place, let the words speak to you.

So that brings me to now. Today I still have that dream to write a book and have it placed on the shelves in my hometown’s library. But I think there may still be time. As Scarlett O’Hara put into words so well, “After all, tomorrow is another day…”

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READING R AINBOW

The Magic of

Public Libraries Local Literary Programs that Engage the Next Generation of Readers W RIT TE N BY MICH A EL A MU LLIG A N

A

s the last bubbles pop, the children at the Newberry branch library wind down, already expecting what’s coming next — story time with Danie Ellsworth, Newberry branch’s children’s specialist.

About 15 kids, ranging from infants to 5 year olds, bounce with excitement as Ellsworth explains the theme for story time that week, which is all about rain. To signify the beginning of story time, each child waddles to a cardboard box filled with colorful cushions. They each pick one up, the cushions the size of their entire bodies, and plop down on the ground ready for Ellsworth to begin with a song.

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time aims at engaging kids in group activities and fostering a love of literacy at a young age. Newberry branch’s story time is at 11 a.m., after music and movement, which is a way to get kids moving in a controlled and safe environment. There’s dancing, singing and even a bubble machine for kids to pop bubbles to their heart’s content.

“Reading as a whole is so important,” Ellsworth said. “Everything else is built off of that; all education comes from your reading skills.”

Ellsworth wants the children who come to story time to enjoy themselves and to not think of it as a school. It’s about fostering a love for reading and learning, whatever that may entail.

“I always try to stress to parents when they come in that whatever the child wants to read — let them,” Ellsworth said.

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Ellsworth gave the example that some parents and guardians do not see graphic novels as an adequate way for a child to learn basic skills of reading and comprehension. However, Ellsworth said that graphic novels are a great way to introduce storytelling and the ability to follow story lines. Some people can get caught up

positive effect on the child, ranging from increased social skills to higher literacy rates.

In a study by New York University within its Department of Pediatrics, “Reading Aloud, Play and Social-Emotional Development,” the practitioners found that when a parent read aloud to their child and

The children that partake in story time at Alachua County libraries are not just being read to, they are also learning to take part in group activities and to be around other children. on grade level reading, but it’s not always about that.

It’s important to establish a love of reading at a young age and to allow their reading skills to prosper in a way that a child is comfortable with.

“They’re picking up on those literacy cues, which are so strong in schools,” Ellsworth said. “They’re just doing it on their own terms.”

The benefits of reading to children at a young age are something that doctors and professors study widely.

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played with them continuously, beginning at an early age, that child’s behavior was generally better than a child that did not receive this early attention. The practitioners discovered that when a child is reading or playing, they often encounter challenges, and when a parent was with them during these challenges, they could receive advice in those situations. When children are reading, they’re constantly uncovering new parts of life, and when an adult is there to answer their questions, they’re becoming more well-rounded kids.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAELA MULLIGAN

Children of various ages, from infant to toddler, gather Wednesdays for themed story time at the Newberry branch library in Alachua County. Danie Ellsworth, Newberry branch’s children’s specialist, facilitates story time each week.

The researchers behind the study found that the biggest takeaway is that it fostered a positive relationship between children and their parents. It allowed that child to understand emotions and how to deal with those emotions. The children who received the parent-child read-alouds and play times were less likely to show signs of aggression and restlessness as they got older.

The children that partake in story time at Alachua County libraries are not just being read to, they are also learning to take part in group activities and to be around other children.

Ellsworth has implemented different aspects of story time to engage with children through the refinement of fine motor skills.

Meaning, they’re often using their hands and feet to take part in the activities, be it dancing, singing or just moving around.

Ellsworth even teaches the children sign language to normalize ASL and to practice their fine motor skills.

Ellsworth has a hearing-impaired, 5-year-old nephew who communicates mostly through sign language. Ellsworth began learning sign language to communicate with him, and now the children attending the weekly story times are learning it, too.

Sign language was something that Ellsworth implemented into story time to normalize the form of communication for younger kids and for them to understand that it’s a way that some people talk.

“If [the children] see it being done, and they start doing it themselves, they understand immediately that this person is communicating that way,” Ellsworth said.

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On the second Friday of each month, the Alachua County Library District holds story time in the play area of Depot Park at 10 a.m. The children and parents trickled in on Feb.14, pulling up a chair to listen in on Valentine’s Day-related books.

The children at the Newberry branch library practice the sign for “rain,” fluttering their little fingers in downward motions as a preparation for the books they’re about to listen to. Some kids remember other basic words for “please” and “thank you,” a testament to their retention abilities, even at ages as young as two.

Many of the same kids come back week after week to story time. When Ellsworth started in July, there were about seven kids. It’s now grown to about 15 kids a week. Karin Mansell and Benjamin, her 13-month-old son, said it’s only her second week coming to story time. Mansell is an elementary school teacher who is taking the year off to spend time with baby Benjamin, which he’s been affectionately named by the adults at story time.

“It’s an outlet for [Benjamin] to be around other kids,” Mansell said. “We do a lot of playdates already, but they’re not structured like this. So this is a good, short amount of time.”

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Ellsworth purposefully implements different elements into story time because toddlers tend to have low attention spans.

The average attention span of a child ranges from 3 to 5 minutes depending on their age. So on average, a three-year-old’s attention span is only about 9 minutes.

Story time at Alachua County’s Newberry branch consists of multiple books being read in about an hour, with breaks in between books for activities like the use of a felt board for more tactile storytelling. Ellsworth calls for little helpers to aid in story time. Each helper receives a little felt animal and when their animal is called, they sprint to the felt board to add their animal to the mix.

As a former teacher, Mansell understands the importance of early reading exposure. At only 13 months old, Benjamin is one of the youngest kids to attend story time at the Newberry branch. She knows that he doesn’t really understand everything PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAELA MULLIGAN

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that’s happening around her, but he’s being exposed to other kids and hearing words she doesn’t always say in her everyday life. She said that she reads to him now to start a habit for herself in the future, for when he understands books and story lines. When he’s older that habit will have formed for both of them, and they can enjoy story time together.

As she speaks, Benjamin mills about the room, touching and feeling anything that looks shiny or interesting. An example of how children can also work on spatial awareness in story time. As mentioned before, reading to children and playing with them allows for better behavior as they age, but Ellsworth understands that right now, they’re just kids. Story time creates an environment for them to feel relaxed in and to learn at their own pace.

Story time at Alachua County libraries varies from branch to branch. If a child isn’t enjoying their time at one library, they can try another that’s down the street.

“That’s how story time is,” Ellsworth said. “Some days they’re totally enraptured, but usually it kind of gets to a wiggly time, but they’re still paying attention, even if they look like they’re not because I asked a question and they immediately turn and answer.”

The kids light up when they remember a sign for a certain word, or they scrunch their noses when they hear a new word for the first time. Or their hand will shoot up at the first opportunity to volunteer as a helper. “They’re so young,” Ellsworth said. “They just love everything.”

Story time at Alachua County libraries varies slightly from branch to branch, which is a good thing. If a child isn’t enjoying their time at one library, they can try another that’s down the street.

Ellsworth said that the children’s specialist at each library meet up about once a month to discuss the best ways to keep the kids engaged in their respective library’s programming.

It’s a group effort, Ellsworth said. There’s constant communication between libraries to make the programming the best it can be.

Mansell said the biggest pull for her to come to story time is that she’s able to be around other kids and adults doing educational things. “It’s a lovely time,” she said. “I think they do a great job of it, especially in our tiny little Newberry.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAELA MULLIGAN

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SPOTLIGHT

RESCUE ANIMAL ADOPTIONS

Furever Friends JUNO, NUKKA AND BRETT

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 Juno, and I’m an 8-month-old Siamese cat.

I come complete with a permanent pair of black boot paws that make my sparkling blue eyes appear even brighter — a combination that made me impossible to give up after being fostered for six weeks.

When I was just two weeks old, I sat with my siblings in a laundry basket at the Humane Society of North Central Florida before we were taken in by Brett Bucholtz who works part-time at the shelter. He bottle-fed and cared for all of us with the help of his girlfriend, Sarah, until we were old enough to be adopted.

Throughout that time, they both fell in love with my sweet, adventurous personality, and to be honest, I already made myself pretty comfortable and became close friends with their three dogs Jet, Bullet and Arrow.

Because I was essentially raised by three canines, I started to adopt some of their behaviors like drinking out of their bowls, sleeping in their beds and attempting to play with their toys. Unfortunately, that last example didn’t always work out for me because those toys were pretty heavy so I just stuck to playing with bottle caps — they’re my favorite! It was hard being a cat in a house full of dogs. Even though I was always included, I felt like I was missing something, until one day my dad brought home a litter of feral cats. I was ready to meet them the very first day, expressing my excitement by banging on the bathroom door so they knew there was another cat just like them in the house. However, despite my repeated attempts at being a good, welcoming hostess, my dad insisted that I wait and let them relax before giving them a tour of the house. Once they became used to their new environment, my 160 |

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dad finally let me in the bathroom to say hello — okay, maybe I snuck in, but it was worth it because I got to meet, Nukka, a Siamese cat just like me but with a snowy complexion and gray accents. I knew at that moment that she would become my best friend and boy was I right.

We soon became inseparable and because she was rather shy, I showed her the ropes and we became instant cuddle buddies. Of course, because we got so close, my dad couldn’t just give her up for adoption and decided to give Nukka her furever home too. My dad once said that his favorite part of having the

two of us has been watching our personalities grow. I was just a small kitten that could fit in the palm of his hand. Now, I’ve come into my own and love being the center of attention while Nukka has gone from a shy, easily startled and nervous purrer to a curious ball of fluff that loves to go on adventures with me and the dogs. I’m so happy that we were both able to find our furever homes and a family that truly loves us.

If you’re interested in giving a pet their furever home, please visit humanesocietyncfl.org.

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