Our Town - July/August 2022 (Newberry & Jonesville) by Our Town Magazine

RESULTS INSIDE: RECOGNIZING OUR TOWN’S FAVORITES FOR 2022 IN GREATER GAINESVILLE & ALACHUA COUNTY

JULY/AUGUST 2022 | VOL. 20 ISSUE 04 | NEWBERRY & JONESVILLE EDITION

A few of our

favorite things...

There are many moments that make life in Our Town great — community events, a rich arts & culture scene, opportunities to give back, and exceptional outdoor spaces to enjoy all year round. Explore the stories we’ve hand-picked for this special issue! Follow us on Facebook

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Joseph C. Stankus Np-C, Wife - Garilee Daughter - Kirklyn , Son - Gunner

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JULY/AUG 2022

• Pediatric, adult, & geriatric care

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• Treating diabetes, hyper tension, high cholesterol, mental health, and men’s health

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• In-house surgical procedures and labs

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Event Venues Downtown Alachua

Meet some of the local event and wedding vendors MAGNOLIA LANE PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS ALACHUA WOMAN'S CLUB

ALACHUA FLOWERS & TUXEDO RENTALS

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

JULY/AUG 2022

RESULTS INSIDE: RECOGNIZING OUR TOWN’S FAVORITES FOR 2022 IN GREATER GAINESVILLE & ALACHUA COUNTY

GREATER ALACHUA VOL. 20 No. 04

JULY/AUGUST 2022 | VOL. 13 ISSUE 04 | GAINESVILLE EDITION

A few of our

favorite things...

IN THIS ISSUE >> WE INVITE YOUCOVER TO CELEBRATE ON THE >> YOUR FAVORITES! ENJOY 45-50 WORDS IPSUM FRESH STORIES THAT HIGHDOLOR SIT AMET, CONSECLIGHT SOME OF OUR MOST TETUR ADIPISCING ELIT. UT FAVORITE TOPICSTURPIS, SUCH AS VIVERRA SEMPER IN LOCAL HISTORY & TRAVEL, ALIQUET MI MOLESTIE ET. ANIMALS & ART, AND TASTY SED ET SEM ET NULLA CURSUS FLAVORS MAURIS & OUTDOOR BLANDIT. ERAT FUN! ARCU, BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE CONDIMENTUM QUIS TINCIWINNERS AND FINALISTS OF DUNT QUIS, SOLLICITUDIN OUR 2022LEO. FAVES CONTEST CURSUS QUISQUE TEL-— A TRUE COMMUNITY LUS DOLOR, PORTA AWARD AC LEO VOTED ONORNARE BY YOU!TINCIDUNT ELEIFEND, LECTUS. C O V E R D E SNULLAM I G N B Y K A ACCUMSAN. LO N I D U N L A P

CP O WIO B LY EF A I RDSDY T LAST NAME HV OETRO ABRYTM CR HKA E

BE PREPARED

FORGET ME NOT: PAST LOCAL BUSINESSES

Tis’ the season to start preparing! A hurricane preparation kit is one of the easiest and beneficial ways to make sure you and your loved ones can survive in the wake of a natural disaster. Find our what you need in your next prep kit!

A nod to some of the most beloved local businesses of the past. Here’s looking at you, Mama Lo’s!

22 SLOW SIPS TEA

Learn how a local infusion artist’s love of loose leaf tea has grown from appreciation to a full fledged business with The Tea Pod, which provides tea tastings and steep in nature events for guests to enjoy.

JULY/AUG 2022

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JULY/AUG

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CONTENTS 30 // CONSERVE AND PROTECT Learn about the conservation efforts happening in South Africa to help protect species such as the white rhino and the great white shark for generations to come.

66 // A CROSS THE GLOBE A UF student records his latest South Africa excursion with helpful tips on where to go and what to do on a trip to this beautiful country.

36 // GET OUTDOORS Discover the wonderous places that are right in your own backyard. There is so much to enjoy out in our local wild.

90 // R IE BURTON

42 // BOTANICAL BEAUTY

A look at local botanical gardens, and what each one has to offer both residents and those visiting from afar.

48 // S ALON ZIBA UPDATE She’s done it again—breaking her own record in the Guinness Book of World Records for most eyebrows threaded! 55 // U RBAN THREAD

A look at the thrift shop that has been serving locals with popular brands for over 20 years.

Known as the “Queen of the Thomas Center” for her impactful work preserving one of Gainesville’s most historic buildings—this tribute is for you, Rie Burton!

96 // STAYING COOL

Get some tips on how to beat the heat this summer season, such as when to avoid peak sun exposure.

142 // DAR MILESTONE

The Gainesville chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution celebrates their 100-year anniversary.

148 // S AMM WEHMAN A local artist uses her talents to help benefit animals that are in need.

101 // O UR TOWN FAVES! Thank you to all of our readers for voting for your favorites in over 250 categories. With over 18,000 votes and hundreds of entries, we’re proud to introduce you to Our Town’s Favorites. Congratulations to all of the winners and finalists!

COLUMNS

INFORMATION

REVIEWS

35 E MBRACING LIFE

58 C ommunity Calendar

136 R EADING CORNER

by Donna Bonnell

52 F ARM TALES by Mother Hen

64 N AKED SALSA by Crystal Henry

138 C harity Winners

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

80 R estaurant Guide 71 B usiness Directory

152 F UREVER FRIENDS Spotlight on Rescue Animals

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. © 2022 Tower Publications, Inc.

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PROTECT YOUR SAVINGS! Radiant’s Adjustable-Rate Certificate protects your savings from rising inflation by adjusting to changing interest rates. Our Adjustable-Rate Certificate is easy to open and offers terms of 12 or 24 months. The certificate rate is adjusted twice each year based on the prevailing 6-month Treasury Rate plus 0.05% for the 12-month term, or 0.10% for the 24-month term1.

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The Radiant Credit Union Adjustable-Rate Certificate Annual Percentage Rate (APR) changes bi-annually on January 1st and July 1st. Certificate APR is adjusted to the 6-month Treasury Bill Rate, as published by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, plus 0.05% APR for the 12-month term or 0.10% APR for the 24-month term. Minimum initial deposit $1,000. Minimum balance to earn APY is $10,000. Penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Fees may reduce earnings. Adjustable-Rate Certificates are not eligible to receive bonus dividends. Refer to the Certificate Truth-in-Savings disclosure for details. Radiant Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA.

JULY/AUG 2022

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INJURED? ARRESTED? Daniel Glassman & Nick Zissimopulos have over three decades of experience in Gainesville practicing personal injury, criminal defense, and civil law. Trucking Litigation Car Crashes Wrongful Death Insurance Bad Faith Criminal Defense Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer (Nick Zissimopulos) Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer (Paul Brockway) Three former prosecutors Over 100 years of combined legal experience. Over 100 5-Star Google Reviews

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www.PutClientsFirst.com OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

JULY/AUG 2022

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donna Bonnell, Dana Bryan, Cameron Cobb, Hanna De La Garza, Crystal Henry, Augustus Hoff, Summer Jarro, Addison Pezoldt, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Joanna Talbot, Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd, Hayli Zuccola

INTERNS Hanna De La Garza, Augustus Hoff

Call us for a Free Consultation today

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ericka Winterrowd editor@towerpublications.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com

Experience Counts • • • • •

PRODUCTION DIRECTORS Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Eaddy, Augustus Hoff

Areas of Practice • • • • •

PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre

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.)

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

EDITOR ’ S LET TER

J U LY/ A U G 2 0 2 2

Favorites As a child my favorite color was yellow. Pink wasn’t an option because my big sister informed me that it was already taken. My three-year-old mind wandered to other options that would suit me, and I settled on yellow because it was the same color as my hair. I’ve always been a big fan of mixing as many different colors as possible. In fact, as a kid I can vividly remember this one magical crayon that was made up of every color you can image. My siblings and I called it the “rainbow crayon.” As you can probably guess, it was always in demand. No two strokes were ever the same because the wax of the crayon was ever-changing. When the blues and reds happened to rub together, an enchanting purple became present. Purple was my second favorite color because every middle sister needs a back-up in case their “first-second choice” becomes off limits too. After crayons came the magic markers, and there was even a pack called Mr. Sketch that was scented like fruit— another favorite! Now as an adult, my color preferences have varied just a tad. I suppose they’re more specific, like my love for the color chartreuse. It’s still in the family of yellow, but with a tinge of lime green. Bold patterns such as stripes and polka dots are another favorite of mine. In fact, a couple years ago I insisted on a thick pin stripe accent wall in my home office, along with the rest of the walls painted a color called “That’s My Lime.” It might sound like a strange combination to some, but to me it was an instant “Fave!” In this issue we explore some of our favorite editorial themes, as well as announcing the winners and finalists of our 2022 Faves Contest—a true community award voted on by you!

People you recognize.

NAMES YOU TRUST.

FORRESTER REALTY “DEPEND ON IT”

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

Thank YOU for voting, and for being one of our favorite readers too!

JimDouglasUsedCars.com

386-454-1488

Ericka Winterrowd, Editor-In-Chief

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Scott Collins

CONTRACTOR #CBC125863

CONTRIB UTOR S

M AY/J U N 2 0 2 2

DANA BRYAN is an assistant at DeFiore and Company Literary Agency. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from UF. One day she hopes to write her own novel. dana.bryan4@gmail.com

CAMERON COBB is a UF graduate with a master’s degree in Mass Communication. She’s also an Air Force veteran. Cameron loves traveling, writing and all animals (her favorite being her rescue dog, Maggie). cameronacobb5@gmail.com

HANNA DE LA GARZA is a fourth-year journalism major and classical studies minor at the University of Florida. Outside of school, she enjoys finding new places to visit and new activities to try out. hanna.delagarza@ufl.edu

AUGUSTUS HOFF is a journalism major at the University of Florida with a passion in environmental preservation. While traveling, he works as a freelance writer and assistant with National Geographic to inspire others. augustus.photograph@gmail.com

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

ADDISON PEZOLDT is a journalism major at the University of Florida. In her free time, she enjoys reading, practicing yoga and exploring new eateries in Gainesville. akpezoldt@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 received her Bachelor’s in Journalism from the University of Florida. hayzdesigns@yahoo.com

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

JULY/AUG 2022

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BE PREPARED

WHAT YOU NEED TO BE PREPARED FOR DISASTER

Hurricane Prep Kit S T O R Y A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y V I C T O R I A VA R G A S

HEY SAY PREPARATION IS KEY, SO WHY NOT PLAN YOUR HURRICANE T PREP KIT NOW? A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. According to ready.gov, being prepared for an emergency means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to Nov. 30, and a hurricane preparation kit is one of the easiest and beneficial ways to make sure you and your loved ones can survive in the wake of a natural disaster such as this.

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Here are the most important items to include in a hurricane prep kit: • WATER: Ready.gov says you should store one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation. Without running water, much of your ordinary tasks, like brushing your teeth, become hard. Tip: If you have a pet, be sure to account for them too. • FOOD: Try to gather at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food. Items to collect are protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, peanut butter, dried fruit, and ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and juices. Allow yourself some sort of comfort food. Any small item that can help relieve stress during a time of crisis is good. Tip: Stay away from salty foods, as these make you thirsty. Make sure you have a manual can opener for food.

PREPARATION >> DISASTER KIT

• FIRST AID KIT Tip: It helps to have some emergency reference material like a first aid book and over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and antacids. • POWER & COMMUNICATION: • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery. • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert, flashlight and a whistle to signal for help. Without electricity, a radio may be your only way to stay updated with what’s going on in the area. Tip: Make sure you have spare batteries. • DUST MASK: to help filter contaminated air, and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place. According to ready. gov, the process is meant to create a barrier between you and potentially contaminated air outside, such as air filled with

debris. Bring your family and pets inside. To shelter in place, lock doors, close windows, air vents and fireplace dampers, cut off all circulation in the house, go into a room with few windows and seal the windows, doors and air vents with the plastic sheeting and duct tape. • HYGENE • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation. • Feminine supplies. • Mess kits, paper plates, plastic utensils and paper towels. • UTILITY • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Local maps • Lighter or matches JULY/AUG 2022

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PREPARATION >> DISASTER KIT

Other items that are helpful to consider are: • Important family documents like copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. • Cash and change • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. • Complete change of clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. • Disinfecting wipes • Fire extinguisher • Stormproof matches • Paper and pencil 18 |

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• Books, games and activities for children. This may be the last thing on your mind to prepare for a hurricane, but having something to occupy your children can make a stressful situation just a bit easier. • Chainsaw • Flare or flare gun • Satellite phone Some Floridians may take hurricane season for granted. We are used to everyday torrential rain and tornado watches. Sometimes though, the threat is real. It helps to know you are ready to protect your family. Here’s to being prepared!

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TEA TIME

THE TEA POD: STEEP IN NATURE

Slow Sips W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U CCO L A | P H O T OG R A P H Y B Y C A N D A C E J O N E S

hen it comes to loose leaf teas, Candace Jones is an infusion artist. Using a painter’s palette of colorful elements derived from nature, she combines different leaves of fruit-bearing trees like fig, papaya or pear with the skins of citrus – namely lemon, orange or grapefruit – and the occasional assortment of herbs and various dried fruits to create an unforgettable sip steeped in nature. Though she’s become adventurous in her flavor profiles and creates each blend from scratch, Jones wasn’t always the tea aficionado she is today. “Initially my concept of tea was probably like Lipton tea bags or Celestial tea because that’s what we grew up with. I’m from Louisiana originally and, you know, in the summers it gets really hot there and I remember my great aunts would do iced tea with tea cake,” Jones recalled. That narrow scope quickly changed when she packed her bags and moved abroad to France – the country that introduced her to the more organic, versatile niche of loose leaf tea. For Jones, an outing to a small, hole-in-the-wall tea room was like walking into a candy store as rows of pewter tea cans lined the 22 |

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walls and filled the air with a breath of sweetness. This singular experience gave her a newfound appreciation for loose leaf that stuck with her even after coming back to the states, but it wasn’t until a 2019 trip to the Portland Tea Fest that she pondered the idea of crafting her own blends. “There were so many tea vendors and I mean like small house things not like people that you hear about nationwide or anything like that, but just so many producers and then a lot of people who were producers and vendors at the same time,” she said. “I got a chance to see the playground, the playground of tea production and all that was out there and I thought ‘oh my gosh, now this, this I can do.’” Of course, the flavor variety of the individual teas was only one part of the festival, with Jones also taking notice of the individual tea ceremonies – especially the ones designed to connect people with nature. The tradition that piqued her interest the most was the Wu-Wo tea ceremony, which translates to “without self.” “It was the whole experience of sharing something that you blended either yourself – it could be something you purchased, but most people who show up for these they have their own little

and they were in abundance and it was awesome and they had a really nice sweetness, an earthy sweetness to tea blends or tisanes. It was just amazing,” she said, “but then the next year, the weather was wonky and the trees did not produce as much fruit and I didn’t want to rob them of the leaves.” This aspect pushes Jones to be more imaginative and free-flowing with each brew while taking into account her previous blends and suggestions offered by the surrounding environment. “As odd as this may sound, I’m a firm believer that the trees themselves kind of guide us in what they’d like to be paired with or guide me in what they’d like to be paired with,” she said. “I love finding new things that work really well together.” With her immersions now somewhat of a routine, Jones needed to factor in the second part of her vision: a tea ceremony. Influenced by the forest bathing movement in Japan, which motivates individuals to connect with nature to improve their mood and promote overall health, Jones became certified with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy to form a bridge between her tea and where it came from. “Basically you have a guide that extends invitations as you walk through natural spaces to promote or encourage connection with the natural world. [It’s] not so much meditation as you would think about in a yoga class or mindfulness, it’s more bodyfulness

JULY/AUG 2022

STEEP IN NATURE >> THE TEA POD

blends that they want to share – and you have these beautiful sets and you serve other people and it’s kind of like musical chairs as you go around and experience tea from different people who are presenting or serving and it’s outdoors – always outdoors,” Jones said. Upon her return to Florida, Jones built on her connections with Jenny Franklin of High Springs Orchard and Market and Amy Van Scoik of Frog Song Organics to dabble with making tisanes, which, unlike pure teas that are made with the leaves of Camellia Sinensis, are herbal infusions made from dried or fresh leaves, seeds, fruits or flowers. At the end of the harvest, Jones foraged through the unused leaves of the fruiting trees and with initial guidance from Franklin – a fellow tea enthusiast – she brewed single-note blends before advancing to the incorporation of other ingredients. “Normally there’s a tree element, an herbal plant element and fruit element,” she said. After finding her footing, in 2021 Jones began crafting blends by relying on her own taste and preferences and with that, The Tea Pod was born. However, as a single-person operation, Jones only develops one flavor profile per season and, because she’s using whatever is in bloom, the mixes also differ from year to year. “Part of creating with the natural world is I’m creating with what they have to give. One year, fig leaves were really great

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STEEP IN NATURE >> THE TEA POD

– if that makes sense – so having more sensory experiences in nature,” she said. “So the guide is basically constantly bringing you back to the present moment in the natural world around you.” Though Covid slowed down her aspirations, Jones has big dreams for the future of The Tea Pod including assembling a signature blend and hosting more tea-based events. “I would love for the tea to be a way to not only connect people but to connect people to the natural environment,” she said. “So having more opportunities to serve people, and since I’m not limiting myself to a brick and mortar kind of establishment where people have to come by and experience tea at a table. I would love to offer more nature therapy experiences.” In a coffee-centered culture, tea takes a more calm approach to life, which Jones aims to convey through her teas and nature walks.

“I think tea is the great unifier and I feel that for many reasons. I don’t know that I have the words for it, there’s just something about it. Much like the blending process of combining different leaves and fruits to create this one sip right, this one experience. This flavor is very similar to me — to combining different personalities and the space around us, it all contributes to this feeling of oneness,” she said. “That’s what I would like to leave people with when they drink and ideally when they sip the teas that I make because there’s something about taking it in slow that calls all those things to mind. That is the part about the forest therapy that I’m drawn to. It’s the pace, the slowness of everything, it’s not as hurried.” To learn more about The Tea Pod or to see a list of upcoming tea tastings and steep in nature events, visit slowsips.com.

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To Conserve & Protect A Look at Animal Conservation Efforts in South Africa S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY AUG US TUS HOFF

Humans thrive on stability and reliance on biodiversity. It is why the human race has food, leisure time, resilience and the capacity for more life. But what happens when this biodiversity is taken away?

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SOUTH AFRICA >> ANIMAL CONSERVATION This great white shark was around 15 feet long, using its large jaws to bite at tuna in the water column just to the side of the camera. Although they are aggressive creatures, these sharks are less concerned about humans than they are about survival.

Scientists worldwide argue that researchers need to attack the issue first-hand to preserve biodiversity. Scientist Mike Barron, a marine researcher in South Africa, agrees. He says that he was inspired by ecology just like most people: marine documentaries. Eventually, Barron got involved with White Shark research and conservation, setting up the foundation for a research and diver development program in South Africa. “Cape Town, South Africa, is a stunning and biodiverse area to explore,” Barron stated. “I’d just like to keep it that way.”

The Great White Shark Most have the image of sharks as primitive organisms which only have a mind for hunger. However, these complex creatures are becoming more and more endangered as the threats of over-fishing and shark-finning pursue. Sharks face a challenge not brought to them in millions of years: humans. There is no better example than that of the great white shark. White sharks are now considered vulnerable according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list, an organization that classifies the risk of extinction for organisms worldwide. Unfortunately, these animals are often misunderstood. Mossel Bay, one of the shark diving capitals of the world, preaches the idea that often, the people are within the cages, not the sharks in the bay. The sharks are often more curious than they are hungry. Hollywood has helped to villainize sharks at the expense of their environmental protection. Diving with white sharks is an experience unlike any other. The water feels different when entering, and while staring off into the blue, your mind begins to find shadows that aren’t there in search for the shark to emerge. But when the shark does, the first instinct is not to be scared or timid but wonder. Millions of years of evolution swimming right in front of you 32 |

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is not a common sight. It is these experiences that enhance the protection of these sharks.

The African White Rhino One of the most sought-after substances globally, the rhino horn is still often used for medical and cultural purposes in the eastern world. Horn dust can be valued more than the price of illicit drugs such as cocaine, meaning it is a lucrative business for poachers. The business has led to the rapid decline of populations of white rhino in South Africa. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), only around 176 white rhinos are left in the wild. This number classifies them as near-threatened by the IUCN red list. They are classified as near-threatened organisms now because of the slowly rising numbers of their low populations. In Karoo, South Africa, entire military-based task forces operate 24/7 to catch and pursue poachers. Poachers will saw off the rhinoceros’ horn and dig so deeply into their skin that they eventually bleed out and die. Those who commit this savage act have no respect for life and often leave the rhino with a slow and painful death. Unfortunately, some of this poaching is due to corruption. Some government officials accept bribes to let poachers in and out of the country of South Africa freely. Even reserves themselves sometimes deal with bribery and inside jobs. However, these reserves are necessary for the education of such a beautiful and essential species. Scientist Dylan Irion, a biologist based in South Africa, believes that citizen science is a critical aspect in helping preserve biodiversity. “Citizen science is a powerful way to engage with the community to manage and understand the natural world,” Irion said. So, what is citizen science? Citizen science is a science that anyone can attribute to, regardless of education or skill level.

SOUTH AFRICA >> ANIMAL CONSERVATION

(Left) This newborn African white rhino has had its horn prematurely removed by wildlife protection in order to protect it from poachers. (Top Right and Bottom) South African penguins are flightless, but can “fly” through the water with their thick double coat of feathers.

A majority of science is collecting data, and some of that data only requires a few simple steps to manage. When a person participates in collecting that data they are not only helping a scientific cause, but they are learning more about the natural world. This methodology could be one of the solutions to help conservation efforts and is being more broadly used and respected by the scientific community worldwide.

The South African Penguin This endangered species is one of the most personable in South Africa. The South African penguin will waddle around your car and through the streets as if they are simply a passerby on a busy afternoon. Simon’s Town is one of these characters’ permanent residencies. Marine biologist Mike Brown explains the waters of Cape Town as a “goldilocks zone,” meaning that the water temperatures there are in prime condition for endemic, or native, species to exist. The penguins are not the only local creatures, as the bay’s depths hold hundreds of endemic species. “Upwelling systems increase huge biodiversity and endemism,” says Brown, arguing that biodiversity is essential to human life. Upwelling is the process of cold, nutrient-rich water being brought up to the surface, exploring the lifecycle of phytoplankton and zooplankton,

which creates an abundance of food for primary predators. This abundance is what increases biodiversity. In addition, animals from around the ocean come to experience the nutrient-rich waters, which is precisely what the South African Penguins do. These penguins often live in waddles on land, but when they go off into the ocean and stick together, they are called a raft. The penguins have thick down feathers underneath the black and white ones, that can easily be seen, that are waterproof and keep them warm in the cold waters of the Southern Ocean. Conservation Near You Fortunately, it is not required to travel to South Africa to experience the implications and effects of conservation. Many conservation efforts in Gainesville have the same underlying message: protection and education of biodiversity. These parks and actions are so important because without them people would be unable to truly connect with these species and understand the importance of preserving them. Get involved with local conservation organizations to make a difference in your own community. The beauty of sharks, rhinos and penguins depends on who is assigning what is beautiful or not. Let’s actively work to ensure that this beauty never goes away. JULY/AUG 2022

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COLUMN

Embracing Life BY DONNA BONNELL

KEEPER OF THE FLAME – REMEMBERING MY FAVORITE PLACE FROM LONG AGO.

“KEEPER OF THE FLAME,” AN ETHEREAL SONG SUNG BY MIRANDA LAMBERT, HELPED ME RESOLVE A SMOLDERING PERSONAL CONUNDRUM. IT SEEMED LIKE MY SOUL WAS PERSISTENTLY URGING ME TO RETURN TO MY ROOTS. THE FIRST LINES WERE THE SPARK NEEDED TO STOP PROCRASTINATING AND DISCOVER THE INTENDED LESSON. “I’m walking in the footsteps I’m singing their old songs Somebody blazed this trail I’m treadin’ on” My quest began by googling ‘keeper of the flame.’ Yourdictionary.com lists two definitions of flame keeper. First, “One who tends a fire that must be kept burning.” Followed by, “One who keeps some idea alive.” While exploring the tune’s meaning, I pondered if its message was to analyze the purpose of my columns. So, I did. Regular readers know that I publicly share personal dilemmas. They say my tales reignite nearly extinguished memories and validate their own thoughts. It is also my way of recording family history. Positive feedback makes my heart happy and reinforces that “Embracing Life” is keeping the flame alive for readers and future generations of my family. Intuitively, I knew there was more for me to learn. Therefore, I paid close attention to the lyrics. Further along, Lambert sings: “When I’m losing When I’m winning I go back to The beginning” Back to the beginning I went. Both of my maternal and paternal ancestors migrated from Abaco Island and the Bahamas

to the Florida Keys and Miami. I have shared stories about my childhood in Miami and the difficult decision to leave family, friends, and my beloved birthplace. Forty years have passed since my husband, infant children and I relocated from Dade to Alachua County. I am grateful we listened to internal guidance, which gave us the courage to take that giant leap of faith. Four decades ago, Newberry was a small agricultural town, quite different from today. Since we did not know anyone, our focus turned towards meeting people and adopting an entirely new way of life. Since then, I have visited Miami and went to Key West (via water shuttle and plane). Yet, I yearned for more. A deep desire developed to take a nostalgic road trip from Miami to Key West. Covid delayed fulfilling that wish. The virus, however, did not stop me from planning. In fact, it was during the quarantine that I took time to research. Voila! I finally discovered the longawaited message. I will explain. My parents owned Pinder’s Sandy Beach Motel and Shell Shop on Grassy Key in the 1970s and 1980s. Their street address was Mile Marker 88, and mail was delivered via a rural route. I never lived there, but since my family did, the Keys were my weekend stomping grounds. Important events took place during that time frame. My nephew was born in Marathon Hospital; Marathon High became my brother’s alma mater; Grassy Key Chamber of Commerce briefly existed. My father opened it without permission to promote a movement. Keys residents (Conchs) wanted to secede from the United States and form the Conch Republic. Maintaining Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville was a primary goal. Of course, the Keys failed to become independent and excessive tourism changed the laid-back ambiance. As South Florida’s population grew, my relatives moved to all parts of our country. Dad and Mom sold their piece of paradise and relocated. Life went on. Fast forward to this decade. This journey became my bucket list’s top priority. Unfortunately, attempts to locate the current name of the motel were futile. I contacted nearby businesses, reached out to a cousin living in Marathon and searched online. Apparently, things have changed so much that even locals cannot identify the exact location. Recently I learned the buildings were demolished and not rebuilt. Shame on me. Did I learn the song’s message too late? Maybe? “I’m the keeper of the flame The teller of the story Keeper of the flame For the ones that came before me” Pinder’s Sandy Beach Motel and Shell Shop was my favorite place as a young adult. I regret not embracing it one more time. The ones who came before me, however, can now rest easy. The final chapter of their time on Grassy Key has now been told and is documented.

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 JULY/AUG 2022

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Get Outdoors! Enjoy Local Nature W RIT TE N BY C A MERON COBB

ome to a seemingly unlimited span of coastline and major tourist attractions like Disney World, the Sunshine State is known for its ability to entertain. But Florida is so much more than just beaches and amusement parks. From miles of flourishing trails to crystal-clear springs accompanied by plenty of flora and fauna to create such kaleidoscopic ecosystems, Florida is a treasure-trove of outdoor experiences—and the Gainesville area is no exception. Here are five local spots to get you outside and into the great outdoors.

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OUTSIDE IS MY BEST SIDE

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALISHA SAILOR

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GET OUTDOORS >> LOCAL NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL EADDY

PHOTOGRAPHY: RACHEL GUTTMAN

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy Open 365 days a year, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park provides the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of what’s right in your backyard. Once home to Seminole Native Americans and officially made a protected area in 1970, it’s not hard to see what makes a journey to Florida’s first state preserve so special. Trek along one of Paynes Prairie’s eight trails spanning over 30 miles in total, searching for animals like deer, alligators, and roughly 300 different species of birds. Or gaze across the nearly 23,000-acre park from 50 feet atop the observation tower, where you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of grazing bison or horses—the only place in the entire state where these wild-roaming mammals can be seen. The park also features a campground area and the popular Lake Wauburg—a destination great for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or taking a simple dip in the water. Other activities at Paynes Prairie include bicycling, geo-seeking, horseback riding, picnicking, and more. All in all, Paynes Prairie is sure to give you a natural escape into one of Florida’s favorites. For additional information about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, visit: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ paynes-prairie-preserve-state-park.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park 12087 S.W. U.S. Highway 27, Fort White At nearly 2,670 acres in size and with enough activities to match it, Ichetucknee Springs is so much more than just a popular tubing location. With the park’s eight main springs joining to make up the 6-mile Ichetucknee River, Ichetucknee Springs hosts a variety of natural habitats, such as sandhills, flatwoods, caves, and more. Whether you take a hike along the trail or opt for snorkeling in Ichetucknee Springs’ Blue Hole (a perfect 72 38 |

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degrees all year), there’s a chance for a new experience every time. Meander through forests filled with longleaf pines, live oaks, saw palmettos, and sweetgums to name a few. Be on the lookout for beavers chipping away at logs or otters gliding through the sparkling waters. Other animals that may been seen at the springs include manatees, wild turkey, turtles, tortoises, squirrels, ducks, owls, and butterflies. Along with wildlife viewing, there are also activities like paddling, picnicking, and even scuba diving. And hey, there’s no shame in taking the traditional route of hopping in a tube and cruising down the river—the park is even complete with an onsite concierge tubing and paddling rental service with shuttles (and a little general store if you forget the sunscreen). For additional information about Ichetucknee Springs State Park, visit: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ ichetucknee-springs-state-park.

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo 3000 NW 83 St. Building Z, Gainesville What better reason to get outdoors than to spend a day at the zoo? The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo boasts 10 acres of area for more than 70 different species of animals. The zoo is home to both native and exotic creatures of all shapes and sizes—guests can wander through the expansive zoo and find critters such as ocelots, red ruffed lemurs, monkeys, tree kangaroos, bald eagles, cattle egrets, geckos, alligators, snakes, and more. Aim to make your own wildlife spottings while taking a walk through the zoo’s wooded trail, or bring your lunch and plan for a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic tables. Interested in what it takes to be a zookeeper? Commemorate National Zookeeper Week by stopping by the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo during their Zookeeper Day celebration from July

GET OUTDOORS >> LOCAL NATURE

PHOTOGRAPHY: DANNY ROHAN

23–24 to learn more about the life of a zookeeper. During this 2-day experience, bring along the whole family to take part in activities like listening to zookeeper talks, witnessing training demonstrations, jamming out to live music, or having your face painted like your favorite animal! For additional information about the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, visit: sfcollege.edu/zoo.

Devil’s Den Spring 5390 NE 180th Ave., Williston As one of North America’s most prehistoric places (according to the park’s website), Devil’s Den Spring certainly has made its name in history as one of the area’s natural gems. Speaking of, ever wonder how Devil’s Den got its name? Look no further than the steam that seeps out from the den’s chimney-like opening, mimicking smoke on chilly winter mornings and leaving early settlers to coin “Devil’s Den.” The area features ancient rock formations and fossil beds as old as 33 million years. This natural wonder and all its glory is truly something to appreciate in person, though if you’ve ever visited the University of Florida’s Museum of Natural History, you may have stumbled upon some of the animal fossils (which date back to the Pleistocene Age) that were found inside the Devil’s Den underground spring’s cave. The water stays a comfortable 72 degrees year-round and is breathtakingly crystal clear, just waiting for you to dive in. You may find the best way to explore Devil’s Den via snorkeling (parkgoers can visit the spring’s website to reserve a date and time). Feel like upgrading your day away into a stay away? Spend the night in one of the park’s rental cabins, or check out the RV park and campground with tent sites. For additional information about Devil’s Den, visit: devilsden.com.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park 325 SW Williston Road, Gainesville With more than 125 acres of wetland habitat, Sweetwater Wetlands Park is a prime destination for any nature lover. Appropriately shaped like an alligator’s head, this Floridian manmade park aims to restore natural water flow, protect and improve water quality, and increase conservation lands. Journey along the gravel trails and boardwalks spreading over 3.5 miles long in total, where you can take in all the sights and sounds of your serene surroundings. Challenge yourself to find as many of the more than 200 different birds as you can ( just make sure to download the park’s Bird Checklist beforehand!). Looking for a more guided experience to learn about Sweetwater Wetlands’ history, management, and wildlife? The park even has ranger-led tours! Offering the ultimate spot to get in touch with nature, Sweetwater Wetlands was actually created as a part of an overarching environmental effort. The Paynes Prairie Sheetflow Restoration Project started in 2009 to reduce pollution to a small lake within Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park known as Alachua Sink “by restoring the prairie’s natural sheetflow and creating a wetland habitat,” according to Sweetwater Wetlands’ website, with the wetlands finished in 2015 and the final goal “to create an environmentally friendly park, filled with plants and animals, that allows people to connect with and learn about nature.” For additional information about Sweetwater Wetlands Park, visit: sweetwaterwetlands.org. Whether it be a trip to the zoo, a dip in the springs, or a peaceful stroll down a dense trail, our local lush landscape boasts more than enough scenery, wildlife, and activities to have you eagerly planning your next Florida adventure. So what’re you waiting for? Get outdoors!

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Botanical Beauty Connecting With the Gardens in Gainesville S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY S UMMER JA R RO

erri and Ron Stewart have visited Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville since it opened about 25 years ago. The couple, who live near Trenton, visit every few years to see any new plant collections. “I like the diversity,” Terri said.

So does Ron. “I like the fact that they do seem to have plants from all over the world, things that you don’t get to typically see,” Ron said. “The diversity is just, in my opinion, really amazing.”

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ONE WITH NATURE

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BOTANICAL BEAUTY >> LOCAL GARDENS The months offering the most color at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens are June through September, according to their website. Kanapaha hosts many special events throughout the year including North Central Florida’s premier horticultural event, the Spring Garden Festival.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens provides a space for visitors to see and learn more about a variety of plants and ecosystems and it is not the only garden in the Gainesville area either. The Wilmot Botanical Gardens also includes a variety of plants and is a space used for education and research purposes at the University of Florida campus. Here’s a little more history on the two gardens and what they offer the community.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

The Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville started construction in 1978 and opened in October 1987. The gardens, which are located at 4700 SW 58th Drive, encompass 68 acres and include 24 collections of diverse flowers and plants from bamboo, water lilies, roses and herbs. The Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is owned by Alachua County and leased by the North Florida Botanical Society. “[It] provides just a nice place for the community and visitors in the Gainesville area to visit and experience something different,” said Mischella Reed Proebsting, rental coordinator 44 |

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and volunteer coordinator at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Visitors can take a stroll along the one-and-a-half mile-long pathways to see the collections. Dogs are allowed and there are picnic areas for visitors to enjoy lunch while in the gardens. A playground is also on the grounds for children. A few of the collections at the botanical gardens are the bulb garden, herb garden, vinery, rose garden, oriental garden and bamboo garden. “It just offers a different variety, a different look,” Reed Proebsting said. She explained that Kanapaha has the largest collection of bamboo in the state. The location has plants and flowers that are seasonal and on the grounds year round. The Victoria water lilies are popular among visitors, which come into full bloom in the summer. “[It] is quite a crowd pleaser in terms of the size of the lilies and something different for people in the community as well as passersby who are visiting here to enjoy,” she said. The gardens see a lot of returning visitors and members as well as new visitors each day it’s open. “It’s kind of a hidden gem that’s tucked away,” Reed Proebsting

BOTANICAL BEAUTY >> LOCAL GARDENS

said. “It’s kind of like a concrete jungle, if you will, of being able to offer a bit of nature inside of a city.” Angela Bianco of Tampa got the chance to see more of the gardens with her partner in June. “I’m hoping to see some native plants and get some ideas for what I could be doing in my own property, and seeing stuff that’s outside of the big box stores and in its natural form,” Bianco said. Along with offering a space for visitors to check out a variety of flowers and plants, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is also a place where special events can be held such as weddings, corporate events, baby showers, birthdays, celebrations of life and more. The Gainesville Camellia Society hosts the Camellia Show at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens every January. The show’s focus is to educate visitors on the care, culture and appreciation of camellias. The Gainesville Camellia Society brings out various camellias for judging and different camellias are on display for sale. The next Camellia Show is scheduled for Jan. 7 and 8 in 2023. The staff at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens also host the Spring Garden Festival and Fall Plant Sale and Orchid Show. At the Spring Garden Festival, which costs a fee, there are multiple vendors offering food, plants, arts and crafts and more. There is also live entertainment and a live auction. During the event, attendees can also walk the gardens. “I always like to call it our Superbowl Sunday of events because it is spring and there’s a lot of new things that are blooming,” Reed Proebsting said. The next Spring Garden Festival will be held in March of next year. The Kanapaha Botanical Gardens’ Fall Plant Sale and Orchid Show is scheduled to take place on Oct. 22 and 23 this year. The event is free and there will be several booths selling a wide variety of plants. The American Orchid Society will also have its annual American Orchid Society’s judged

According to their website, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a 68-acre nonprofit facility comprised of 24 major collections visually accessible from a 1-mile paved walkway. These include the state’s largest public display of bamboos and the largest herb garden in the Southeast.

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BOTANICAL BEAUTY >> LOCAL GARDENS

show at the events. “A lot of these events help fund the gardens, which allows us to be able to maintain the gardens and help us to expand,” Reed Proebsting said.

Wilmot Botanical Gardens

UF also has its own botanical gardens right on campus. Wilmot Botanical Gardens is located at 2023 Mowry Road and is free and open to the public. Spanning 4.8 acres, this garden has a variety of plants including azaleas and camellias, but it wasn’t what it is today when it first opened. “It has evolved considerably,” said Craig Tisher, director of the Wilmot Botanical Gardens and professor at the College of Medicine at UF. “There is a long history.” When the Wilmot Botanical Gardens opened back in the

their quality of life, Tisher said. The greenhouse offers a space where research can take place to find the benefits of therapeutic horticulture, according to the garden’s website. Tisher also wants the rest of the Wilmot Gardens to be used as a space where people can increase their interaction with nature and the outdoors, he said. “The gardens are a part of what we do in terms of patient care either formal or informal,” Tisher said. Wilmot Gardens is continuously going through enhancement projects to help improve the space for guests. “It’s the only remaining green space on the health science center campus, and so it is a place where students, faculty, staff and visitors spend time either just walking through or they might eat lunch here,” Tisher said. “It gives them a chance for a brief respite from whatever their worries or concerns are, or their job. So it plays a very important role, I think, in providing

“It gives them a chance for a brief respite from whatever their worries or concerns are, or their job. So it plays a very important role, I think, in providing a refuge that people can come to.” 1950s, it was a memorial garden named after Royal James “Roy” Wilmot, who was a horticulturist with the Agricultural Experiment Station at UF in the 1940s. Over the years the gardens were turned into an arboretum of teaching purposes and slowly fell into disrepair. In the mid2000s several people at the College of Medicine at UF felt the gardens needed to be restored and worked to do so, Tisher said. Tisher was one of the people who donated funds to help restore the gardens. “Subsequently we have greatly diversified the plantage in the garden, and in addition, we built a 2,700-square-foot greenhouse,” he said. The greenhouse was built to support a patient care program called therapeutic horticulture, where staff work with people who are physically or mentally challenged and try to improve 46 |

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a refuge that people can come to.” More plants are added to the gardens regularly. Currently there are 345 camellias and 50 will be added this fall and winter. About 60 azaleas of different types will be added “to enhance the attractiveness of the environment,” Tisher said. A pledge was made to build an added outdoor rehabilitated garden to Wilton Gardens. It is expected to be completed in 2024. “This will allow us to expand our therapeutic horticulture program and add an outdoor component, which will probably double or triple the number of people that we can serve,” Tisher said. Here’s to all of the green spaces that are blossoming for the greater good in our community!

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THREAD IT TO WIN IT

WORLD RECORD HOLDER ACHIEVES NEW PERSONAL BEST

Her Biggest Competition STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY A DDISON PEZOLDT

WHEN ZIBA AHMADI BROKE THE WORLD RECORD FOR MOST EYEBROWS THREADED IN ONE HOUR, HER FIRST THOUGHT WAS, “I CAN DO MORE.” AND MORE SHE DID. On March 15, Ahmadi became her biggest opponent when she broke her own record in the Guinness World Records. Her new personal best: 102 eyebrows threaded in 45 minutes. This time around, the salon owner was not going to let her personal goal slide. Back in June 2021, Ahmadi aimed to thread 100 eyebrows in an hour. While the Guinness World Records must still release the official number for her most recent event, 48 |

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Ahmadi expected no less from herself. Ahmadi had planned to go big this time around. Armed with a public relations team, she sent emails and connected with her clients to push this event to be larger than her last one. Shirts were made, and dances were planned to keep the energy alive for everyone. At the time, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia left a heavy mark, and she had a donation box set up to support Ukraine. The country’s flag overlooked the salon. Attendees had to register for the event in advance and find a replacement if they could no longer make it. Initially, 211 people signed up to attend; after several email blasts, 110 were confirmed to come.

succeed. With 15 minutes to spare, Ahmadi was out of volunteers. She knows she could have set a higher record had more people showed, but it has not deterred her spirit. Ahmadi will give others two years to attempt to break her record; after that, she intends to break it again. Besides, she will have her hands full with other goals. Since she first broke the world record for eyebrow threading in 2021, Ahmadi’s business has soared. The salon owner sees about eight to 15 new clients every day. She said she does not know where people are coming from, but she relishes the chance to build new relationships. If she had known breaking the Guinness World Record would bring in so many new clients, she would have broken it 10 years ago, she said. The increase in clients is not overwhelming for her though. Ahmadi thinks of herself as “Ziba” first, world record

JULY/AUG 2022

WORLD RECORD BREAKER >> SALON ZIBA

If only it had not rained. The day of, 60 people showed up to help Ahmadi break the world record. Showers descended on the salon in Thornbrooke Village, deterring many of Ahmadi’s supporters from attending. The event was meant to take place outside and had to be moved inside at the last minute. Dejected, Ahmadi figured her chances were lost. Patricia Jenkins, Ahmadi’s event manager for both world record events, asked the crowd if it would like to cancel. Ahmadi and Jenkins underestimated the community’s love. Each volunteer and client went to work, a match ignited under the small group. Frantic words and pleas were exchanged as husbands, kids and roommates were called. Videographers and reporters sat in chairs to help Ahmadi achieve her goal. Ahmadi loves her clients and she was inspired by how much everyone wanted her to

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WORLD RECORD BREAKER >> SALON ZIBA On March 15, Ahmadi (center) became her biggest opponent when she broke her own record in the Guinness World Records. Her new personal best: 102 eyebrows threaded in 45 minutes.

title holder second. When she meets new people, she tries to show that authenticity. People may come to the salon to meet a two-time world record holder, but they stay for the love. The salon is an excuse

and I’m the only one who holds a Guinness World Record title for Gainesville.” Despite her love for her city and her community, Ahmadi said her next two world record attempts will not take place in

“People say, ‘It’s so lucky the Guinness happened in Gainesville,’” Ahmadi said. “Gainesville is in a Guinness Book, and I’m the only one who holds a Guinness World Record title for Gainesville.” for Ahmadi to greet people; she is not in it for the fame or the money. This is, of course, Ahmadi’s “magic” at work. Ahmadi began posting videos on her social media page of her clients telling their stories of love, relationships, pregnancies and more that they attribute to Ahmadi’s “magic.” Because she pours so much love into her clients when she threads their eyebrows, many believe this helps them achieve their dreams and find love in their own lives. The community takes notice of her. Ahmadi laughed, describing how difficult it is to go to restaurants in Gainesville now because someone always recognizes her. She doesn’t mind. She loves her city. “People say, ‘It’s so lucky the Guinness happened in Gainesville,’” Ahmadi said. “Gainesville is in a Guinness Book, 50 |

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Gainesville. Another city can hope to have its name next to hers. This does not mean Ahmadi is ready to say goodbye to her home. She simply wants to show that the power to break a world record lies within her. This is a strength she hopes will help her achieve her 10-year goal to become Florida’s governor. More than anything, she said she wants to aid those who she feels are most neglected now. “I see people in three minutes every six to eight weeks, but they talk about everything,” she said. “They tell me all the emotional [stuff ], whatever has happened to their lives. So, I listen; and it happened to me too. So, I’m going to go fight, even if I don’t win.” With all of Ahmadi’s current and aspired achievements, the salon owner blazes onward. Yet, when she thinks about

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the legacy she hopes to leave, it is much simpler. If, in 30 years, Ahmadi’s clients tell their children and grandchildren about a woman who came from nothing and made it on her own, a positive energy with a welcoming laugh and smile, that is good enough for her. She just wants people to know that she loved them, even if she is no longer around.

“They’re gonna say, ‘Here used to be a salon. This woman worked here. She broke the Guinness World Record two times in Gainesville. We were just here to see her say hi. She was the fastest; she was doing eyebrows in three minutes. And she gave us all the positive love she could give.’” For now, an empty chair awaits in her shop, the promise of love palpable in the air.

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COLUMN

From Mother Hen

FARM TALES

FAVORITES

FAVORITE. This is a word I’ve been thinking about a lot lately. Is our favorite person, place or thing an absolute that stays the same throughout our life? Or does it change and evolve as we grow? I think our journey and the experiences along the way mold us into the people we were meant to be, and along with that maybe some of our favorites change as well. If I take this thought a

little further, I could give you some examples I have had in my own life. For instance, when I was a child I hated broccoli. Just the smell of it would send me running out of the house while it was cooking. Now it’s one of my favorite go-to vegetables to have with dinner. Reading used to be my favorite thing to do. Nothing better than curling up with a good book. I used to zip through lengthy books like “Gone with the Wind” in a few days, but I find at this age my eyes tire out after a chapter or two. Even though I’ve slowed down a bit, I do still enjoy reading. However, I’ve recently discovered audio books on my smart phone, so this has become my new favorite pastime. Now I enjoy listening to a good book. Music changes too. As a teenager the Beatles were my favorite. The louder, the better! Nowadays I like smooth jazz, or country songs that tell a story such as “Grandpa (Tell me ‘Bout the Good Old Days)” by The Judds. I still say the Beatles are my favorite, but I think that’s more about the memories attached to the music than the songs themselves. I used to love to travel, and I am so glad I did it when I was younger and my endurance was stronger. One of my favorite trips was ten days in London, England. I would set out early in the morning and take the Tube to different areas of the city. I explored the British Library and saw the Magna Carta, viewed actual mummies up close at the British Museum, crossed the intersection on Abbey Road where the Beatles took that famous photo for their album cover, and stopped by 221b Baker Street where Sherlock Holmes resided. At night I would drop exhausted in bed, then start all over again the next morning. Great memories, but if I’m honest, my favorite thing to do now is snuggle up on the couch at home with my faithful little dog. There’s a lot of power in words, and as parents we need to be careful how we use them. Favorite is one of those words. I am a mother of three girls (my chicks). When they were little, they would sometimes say that one or the other of them was “my favorite.” This would usually occur if I tried to referee a squabble, or when it seemed like I was giving more attention to one or the other. I would always answer that I love each of them equally but in different ways. Of course, this was not what they wanted to hear. It was a little too deep for their young minds. So, I would follow up by saying “When you are a mother one day, you will understand.” In truth however, that was exactly the correct answer. Each of my chicks have a huge place in my heart, and I love each of them for their uniqueness. One has the nurturing side of her, and is today a very caring doctor and loving mother of two daughters of her own. Another has the artistic, creative side to her that I enjoy exploring and collaborating with. The youngest has a very compassionate heart, always seeing the best in anyone she meets—and has found a career where she helps people daily. All three of my chicks dazzle me with the young women they have

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become, and each in their own way is my “favorite.” I’ve discovered from my little nest of chicks that the heart is not a box that only so much love can fit into. It’s more like a rubber band that stretches with each addition. Our Creator has blessed us with the infinite ability to love, to have “favorites” so to speak, without taking away from the previous love we have given and received from others. I would venture to say that this is the most precious gift our Creator has given to us. A part of Him that he has shared by his own example. When I now talk to my eldest chick, the mother of two precious daughters of her own, she gets it. She could never say she has a favorite child. She loves them each equally, and treasures both for their individuality. Now that they are grown, my chicks finally understand that they each are my favorite. And that’s exactly how I feel. That doesn’t stop them from teasing me when we are together, and accusing me of having a favorite. But I can tell they don’t mean it. They just like seeing my reaction, and the hug that I give them back in return. Yes, hugs are my favorite … and that will never change. JULY/AUG 2022

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•

MUSHROOMS >> FLAVORFUL FACTS

THRIFTY BUSINESS

SERVING THE GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY FOR OVER 20 YEARS

Urban Thread W R ITTEN BY H A N NA DE L A GA R Z A | PHOTOGR A PH Y BY MICH A EL EA DDY

FINDING THE PERFECT PLACE TO THRIFT MAY SEEM LIKE A DAUNTING TASK. A SHOP THAT OFFERS BOTH A CONSISTENTLY SOLID SELECTION OF CLOTHING ITEMS AND GOOD SERVICE IS KEY. For many, Urban Thread has become that place. Urban Thread is a locally-owned thrift store that specializes in selling items from well-known brands at significantly lower prices. Customers can find a variety of clothing pieces from brands such as J.Crew, Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters, and they can shop without having to hurt their wallets. Located at 1202 NW 23rd Ave., Urban Thread is just a few miles from the University of Florida campus, making it convenient for students who live on or near campus. It caters towards a female audience; however, it does have some men’s clothing items too.

The store itself has a quaint and humble appearance, but the décor — not to mention clothing on display — gives it an aura of trendiness. From the eye-catching chandelier in the center of the store to the chalk-drawn fitting room doors, it is clear that Urban Thread is appealing to the youthful shopper. When guests enter, they are greeted by rows of clothing racks, each organized by clothing brand name. The right wall of the store is lined with various boots, shoes and heels. The checkout area sits at the front of the store, and it is surrounded by an assortment of different accessories such as scarves and sunglasses. There are even cloth face masks for purchase. Urban Thread is different from other thrift stores in that all of the items are in good to new condition with the tags still on. This is because the pieces that it sells are returns from stores, meaning they could be either gently worn or completely brand new. JULY/AUG 2022

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URBAN THREAD >> THE PLACE TO THRIFT (Above) Lilly Kline founded Urban Thread in 1999. Since then, she has served the Gainesville area by offering high quality fashion at affordable prices.

The collection also includes graphic T-shirts and flannels that were cropped in store by a seamstress. These shirts can be purchased in person or online as they are featured on Urban Thread’s Etsy shop. The Etsy shop was created to generate more sales, and this has been especially helpful during the summer with fewer people visiting in person. The store is usually manned by owner and founder of Urban Thread, Lilly Kline. Kline founded the store in 1999 after moving to Gainesville from Fort Lauderdale. She became interested in the resale business while attending school at the College of Charleston in South Carolina where she studied corporate communication and business. What attracted her to resale was a store she found that sold J.Crew returns. At the time, J.Crew was a popular brand among college students. She became curious and did more research on the topic, and she learned about how J.Crew handled returns. When someone purchased something from its catalog and returned it, J.Crew did not sell it in its store, rather it sold it off in warehouse sales. This led Kline to look more into what other stores do with their returns as she became interested in the whole process. Eventually, she got involved with J.Crew and began running warehouse sales for the company. J.Crew would send around 56 |

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10,000 pieces of clothing for her to do week-long sales with in different college towns. Years ago when she did the sale in Gainesville, she rented out the conference room at the Holiday Inn on West University Avenue. Kline said that the room would be jam-packed with students, and this made her come to the realization that there was a high demand for a resale business in a city like Gainesville. This led to the creation of Urban Thread. Kline first opened the store in a space across from the Bank of America on West University Avenue after learning from a friend that this bank had the most used ATM in the state of Florida. Ten years later, the store moved to 1504 NW 13th St. where Lloyd Clarke Sports is currently. She had this space for six years until moving to the location Urban Thread is currently settled at. Kline explained that she has had to move so many times because as Gainesville has developed over the past two decades, it has become progressively more difficult for businesses to keep up with rent prices, especially by the university. Fortunately, despite the multiple relocations, Urban Thread has developed such a positive reputation among Gainesville locals that Kline has continued to see consistent support and steady business.

URBAN THREAD >> THE PLACE TO THRIFT

It is because of this support that Urban Thread was able to maintain customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many other businesses in Gainesville, Urban Thread experienced challenges due to the pandemic because few people were in town, and an even fewer number were going out. Kline had to let go of a majority of her employees besides herself and one other. The pandemic also led to the closing of the adjoining café called Harper’s Corner, which she also owned. Harper’s Corner, named after Kline’s daughter, was created as a unique extension of Urban Thread. She wanted it to be an inviting place that the community could go to grab a coffee or a snack. It was especially popular for students who were looking for a place to sit and study. Kline decided to close the café when COVID -19 hit because she could not manage both the store and Harper’s Corner at the same time. It still remains closed, and Kline said she is unsure as to whether or not it will be open for

business again. Despite this, store operations have gone back to normal with the return of students to campus. Kline has enjoyed seeing customers come into the store again, and she is happy to be helping both new and regular visitors. Although Kline admitted she is not personally into fashion, she said that her satisfaction comes from seeing her customers find new clothing items to add to their wardrobe. “I’m not a big ‘clothes girl,’ I wear jeans every day,” she said. “I think I love the aspect of someone coming in and putting on something and just, like, transform themselves.” It is clear that Kline loves her business and the opportunities it provides for her customers. She recognizes that it can be difficult for some people to afford nice clothes, and by providing a space like Urban Thread, those people have the chance to enjoy the same luxury that others have. For any who are interested in visiting the store for the first time, they can trust that they will be in good hands. JULY/AUG 2022

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COMMU NIT Y C A LENDA R

J U LY/ A U G U S T 2 0 2 2

HAMLET

Friday, July 15 – Sunday, August 7; Various times Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, returns from school to find his father dead and his mother remarried. But something is rotten in the state of Denmark. A Ghost of the dead King walks nightly through Elsinore castle. When the Ghost tells him that his father was murdered by his uncle, Hamlet vows revenge. acrosstown.org

44TH ANNUAL JACK GAMBLE MELON RUN

Saturday, July 9 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

1001 NW 34th St.

CITY OF AL ACHUA’S 22ND ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY CELEBR ATION

Monday, July 4 from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull

GAINESVILLE – This three-mile run hosted by the Florida Track Club is as much a part of the Fourth of July as BBQ and Fireworks. Enjoy the rolling hills on this course where age-group winners receive a watermelon! Age groupings for awards are in 10 year increments. Refreshments (most likely more watermelon) will be served to all runners after the race. runsignup.com/Race/FL/ Gainesville/43rdMelonRun

Legacy Park, 15400 Peggy Road

Road

ALACHUA – Dubbed “The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America,” this annual event draws thousands of people to Alachua and has great economic impact on businesses in the area. There will be plenty of activities for the kids at Kids Corner from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Live music will kick off at 6 p.m. cityofalachua. com

GAINESVILLE – Explore the natural world with scientists and Museum staff in this outdoor experience for the whole family. Discover how scientists work in the field and learn how to use the tools of science yourself. Wear appropriate footwear and clothes that can get dirty or wet! The event will head outdoors to explore the UF Natural Area Teaching Laboratory. Tickets are $15 for non-members and $12 for members, per participant. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

Monday, July 4 at 8 a.m.

SPECIAL FOR VETERANS

Monday, July 4 from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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TIOGA MOVIE NIGHT – SING 2

FAMILY DISCOVERY CAMP: WATER

CRUEL SUMMER AT THE WOOLY

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull

Friday, July 8 from 8:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Road

Tioga Town Center, 133 SW 130th Way

Saturday, July 9 at 9 p.m.

GAINESVILLE – The Museum is offering free admission to veterans for the Fourth of July. On July 4, veterans will receive a free value admission to the Butterfly Rainforest and Science Up Close: Fantastic Fossils exhibits. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

NEWBERRY – Join the Town Center for their Tioga Movie Night Series, this time featuring “Sing 2.” Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and come enjoy the movie under the stars on. This is a free outdoor movie screening and is open to the public. tiogatowncenter.com

The Wooly, 20 N Main St.

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GAINESVILLE – Cruel Summer: A Taylor Swift dance party is coming to The Wooly on July 9th. Doors open at 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 and include a slim can koozie! This is a 21+ event. thetopsecretevents.com

MATTHEW FOWLER

Wednesday, July 13 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

NCFBS PRESENT: BLUES MEETS GIRL

PETER PAN (SUMMER YOUTH PRODUCTION)

Heartwood Soundstage, 619 South Main St.

Sunday, July 17 from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 28 – Sunday, August 7

GAINESVILLE – Prodigal son Matthew Fowler returns to Heartwood after a national tour and debut record. Tickets are $15. heartwoodsoundstage.com

Heartwood Soundstage, 619 South Main St.

High Springs Playhouse, 23416 W US Highway

GAINESVILLE – Blues Meets Girl is a smokin’, sexy collaboration between British Blues veteran Mr. Downchild. Opening the show will be The Blues Art Form, aGainesville/Micanopy act that combines the guitar styles of Dr. Jules Gliesche and Lothar Weimann with the sax playing of Adam Careaga. Tickets are $15. heartwoodsoundstage.com

SOME OLD BLACK MAN

Friday, July 15 – Sunday, July 24

Actor’s Warehouse, 619 NE 1st St.

GAINESVILLE – Calvin moves his 82-yearold doggedly independent, blue collar, ailing, father from Greenwald, Mississippi into his Harlem penthouse, an argument over what to eat for breakfast turns into a generational clash over race, opportunity, and a decision that Calvin made years ago. actorswarehouse.org

SPAMALOT

Friday, July 15 – Sunday, August 7; Various times

THE CURRYS

Thursday, July 21 from 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Heartwood Soundstage, 619 South Main St.

GAINESVILLE – T h e C u r r y s h a v e w o n over hearts with their infectious melodies and familiar harmonies. Tickets are $20. heartwoodsoundstage.com

TIOGA CONCERT NIGHT – ELIO PIEDRA

Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039

Friday. July 22 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

NW 16th Blvd.

Tioga Town Center, 133 SW 130th Way

GAINESVILLE – Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Monty Python’s “Spamalot” retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy of beautiful show girls, not to mention cows, killer rabbits, and French people. The outrageous, uproarious, and gloriously entertaining story of King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake will delight audiences as they search for the Holy Grail and “always look on the bright side of life.” gcplayhouse.org

NEWBERRY – Join the Town Center for their Friday Night Concert Series, featuring Elio Piedra. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and come enjoy the music under the stars. This is a free outdoor concert, open to the public! Elio Piedra is a musician, drummer, entertainer, singer, arranger and composer. tiogatowncenter.com

FAMILY DISCOVERY CAMP: FOSSILS

Saturday, July 16 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road

HIGH SPRINGS – The Darling children love to hear of Peter Pan’s adventures during his visits through the open window of the nursery. Then one night after Nana has taken his shadow and Wendy has sewn it back on, Peter Pan and Tinker Bell whisk the children off to Neverland to be part of the adventures. highspringsplayhouse. com

FAMILY DISCOVERY CAMP: SPIDERS

Saturday, July 23 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road

Saturday, July 9 from 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. Cypress & Grove Brewing Co., 1001 NW 4th St.

GAINESVILLE – Come check out Gainesville’s First Cuban Sandwich Festival! Live music, great beer and of course, Cubans! Best Cuban Competition will be held and the Best Cuban Sandwich winner will be awarded cash prize, as well as the runner up! Think you got what it takes? Come enter the competition! cypressandgrove.com

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DANIEL CHAMPAGNE

Sunday, August 21 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Heartwood Soundstage, 619 South Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Australian guitarist Daniel Champagne has built a worldwide audience through his energetic performances and unique tapping and finger style guitar playing. Tickets are $20. heartwoodsoundstage.com

PLAYGROUND MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

Saturday, August 27 from 3 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S Main St.

FAMILY DISCOVERY CAMP: REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

GAINESVILLE – FLIPTURN with friends at Heartwood, Playground Music and Arts Festival is an all-day outdoor music festival. Tickets are $35 - $40. heartwoodsoundstage.com

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road

RECURRING EVENTS

Saturday, July 30 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

POTTERHEAD DAY 2022

Sunday, July 31 from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Swamp Head Brewery, 3650 SW 42nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE – This year’s event will be back in person at Swamp Head Brewery! They’ll have three brand new themed beers on tap as well as available in limited quantities in cans. Potterhead Day will be held in their tasting; pre-sales will take place online for pickup in-person at the brewery. swamphead.com

TIOGA CONCERT NIGHT – SCOTT WILSON & THE GLOBAL JAZZ ENSEMBLE

Friday, August 12 from 8 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie and great conversations with us. All riding levels welcome. Tickets are $75 per-person. haileequestrian.com/events

PLANT POP UP SHOP

NEWBERRY – Join the Town Center for their Tioga Movie Night Series, this time featuring “Clifford the Big Red Dog.” Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and come enjoy the movie under the stars. This is a free outdoor movie screening and is open to the public. tiogatowncenter.com

High Springs Creates, 23625 W U.S. Hwy 27

HIGH SPRINGS – Join The Plant Plugs and Planted Healing for a monthly plant popup shop at High Springs Creates! facebook.com/ HighSpringsCreates

RED SHOE AFFAIR

Saturday, August 13 at 6 p.m. Exactech Arena, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr.

GAINESVILLE – The Tenth Annual Red Shoe Affair promises to be an extraordinary evening in support of Ronald McDonald House families and in celebration of the House’s 40th Anniversary. The festivities will be packed with a silent & live auction, heart-warming family stories, exquisite cuisine provided by Embers Wood Grill as well as open bars, dancing, and much more! For more information, please contact Meghan Carl at 352-374-4404 x229 or mcarl@rmhcncf.org

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Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.

First Saturdays from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Tioga Town Center, 133 SW 130th Way

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

First Fridays at 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Tioga Town Center, 133 SW 130th Way

Friday, August 5 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

NEWBERRY – Join the Town Center for their Friday Night Concert Series, featuring Scott Wilson & The Global Jazz Ensemble. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and come enjoy the music under the stars. This is a free outdoor concert, open to the public. Trumpeter Scott Wilson has established himself as one of the rising stars of jazz – both as a performer and as a pedagogue. tiogatowncenter.com

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TIOGA MOVIE NIGHT – CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG

HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE

GUIDED WALK AT KANAPAHA

First Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy a guided tour through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens starting at 10 am the first Saturday of every month. Regular admission price applies for non-members. kanapaha.org

JAZZ ON THE GREEN

Second Saturdays from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. Suite 140

GAINESVILLE – Join Celebration Point every second Saturday of the month for live music, food, drinks and more! Spread a blanket under the setting sun, and catch some beautiful music on the green. celebrationpointe.com

GAINESVILLE CARS & COFFEE

Second Sundays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Whole Foods Market, 3490 SW Archer Road

GAINESVILLE – A gathering for automotive enthusiasts of all types from exotics and classics to imports and jalopies. The meet is free to attend; coffee will be provided to attendees, as well as breakfast items for sale. gainesvillecarsandcoffee.com

PALEONTOLOGY IN THE PARK

Second Sundays from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

month will be slightly different as we dig up fun new activities for kids of all ages. The fossils embedded in Depot Park’s Blue Grotto were provided by the Florida Paleontological Society, Florida Geologic Foundation & Florida Museum of Natural History. depotpark.org

DOWNTOWN HIGH SPRINGS ARTWALK

Third Saturdays from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

ARTWALK GAINESVILLE

Downtown High Springs

Last Fridays at 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

HIGH SPRINGS – Art Walk features local artists and makers situated both inside stores and on the sidewalks of downtown. Some locations feature live painting and demonstrations. This seasonal monthly event is an opportunity for local artisans and artists to demonstrate and display their talents and offer their works for sale in storefronts throughout the downtown area. Participating host merchants also offer specials and sales during the event. highsprings.us

Gainesville Fine Arts Association

PLAYLIST AT THE POINTE

Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave.

Fourth Fridays from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

GAINESVILLE – Join Depot Park Ambassadors on the second Sunday of each month in the Play Area for paleontology and fossilrelated activities, learn about the unique fossils hidden throughout the Blue Grotto and have some fun along the way. Each

Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe

1314 South Main Street (multiple venues)

GAINESVILLE – Artwalk Gainesville, a free self-guided tour of exciting visual art, live music, performances, and events. Events are held in Art Galleries and Studios, Theaters, Breweries, Community Spaces. See our flyer and map for details to plane your own custom Artwalk Gainesville. artwalkgainesville.com

GAINESVILLE SHRINE CLUB MARKETPLACE

Ave.

Fourth Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

GAINESVILLE – A music event that offers an eclectic mix of music from a variety of genres – country, rock, soul and more. celebrationpointe. com

Gainesville Shrine Club, 8100 SW Archer Road

GAINESVILLE – The Gainesville Shrine Club’s MarketPlace is a yard sale/ flea market with proceeds benefiting the local Shrine Club. Contact David Jones at 336-430-910 to reserve your vendor spot. gainesvilleshrineclub.org

MACRAMÉ WORKSHOP

Fourth Saturdays from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

High Springs Creates, 23625 W U.S. Hwy 27

BREW AT THE ZOO

Saturday, August 13 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE – Save the date for the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo’s inaugural Brew at the Zoo! Guests 21+ are invited to an after-hours event at the zoo on Saturday, August 13 from 4-7 p.m. to enjoy an evening of live music, craft beer, animal encounters, food and more. sfcollege.edu

HIGH SPRINGS – Join us every fourth Saturday for a 2 hour macramé class with Be Kind Twine! You will learn the art of knot tying while creating a plant hanger for your new plant! Plants and pots will be available for purchase from Unique Notions & The Plant Plugs. facebook.com/HighSpringsCreates

GARDENING AT DREAMERS GARDEN

Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Dreamers Garden, 920 NW 4th St.

GAINESVILLE – Don’t miss this opportunity to work alongside certified Master Gardeners in Dreamers Garden. All equipment and supplies JULY/AUG 2022

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will be provided onsite. We only ask that you wear closed-toe shoes and bring a personal water bottle along to stay hydrated. Contact: Maria Huff Edwards, maria0407@bellsouth. net

BIRD WALKS AT THE WETLANDS

Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston

Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave.

Road

GAINESVILLE – Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5K at Depot Park. Participants can walk, jog or run. The community is encouraged to get active at their fitness and ability level. Parkrun is a global movement that started in the UK and quickly spread across the world. Every Saturday over 1,700 events occur with more than 150,000 participants globally. parkrun.us/depotpark

GAINESVILLE – Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida’s premier birding hotspots during a 2-3-hour guided walking tour. Join us to see why Sweetwater Wetlands Park is the most popular birding destination in the Gainesville area. Walks are free with park admission fee ($5/vehicle) and are offered every Wednesday morning from September 1st though the end of May. alachuaaudubon.org

Wednesdays from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. (September – May)

Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E University Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Morningside Living History Farm is hosting an in-person, socially distant Barnyard Buddies program! This one-hour program is free, but online pre-registration through Eventbrite is required on a first-come-first-served basis. Youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding on the Living History Farm.

RUNNING TABS

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. 5920 NW 13th St.

First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE

GAINESVILLE – Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills. This 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

GAINESVILLE – Running Tabs is a fun, open group aimed at promoting runners and the running community throughout the Gainesville area. Runs are free and open to runners of all ages and fitness levels. If you’re looking for a running group to help you get into running or to improve your race performance, give us a shot. fmbrewing.com

STRETCH & FLOW

Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. High Springs Creates, 23625 W U.S. Hwy 27

HIGH SPRINGS – Join Angela Stull for Stretch & Flow! Start with a warm-up stretch and move into a vinyasa flow followed by a relaxed stretch and savasana. This class is accessible for people of all levels. facebook.com/HighSpringsCreates

GNV MARKET

Thursdays from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

QIGONG WITH CEILAH

Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

High Springs Creates, 23625 W U.S. Hwy 27

HIGH SPRINGS – Qigong is a mind-bodyspirit practice that improves one’s mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing technique, self-massage, sound and focused intent. Join Ceilah for this beautiful healing practice. facebook.com/ HighSpringsCreates

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ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET

Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. Veitch St.

BARNYARD BUDDIES

PARKRUN 5K AT DEPOT PARK

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Haile Plantation Village

GAINESVILLE – Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food and handmade gifts then continue on for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shows and restaurants. Covid-19 recommendations: maintain physical distance, don’t touch products, one customer served per vendor at one time and protect yourself and others by wearing facial coverings. hailefarmersmarket.com

GHFARMERS MARKET

Heartwood Soundstage, 619 South Main St.

Sundays from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

GAINESVILLE – The GNV Market is Gainesville’s Downtown farmers market every Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Featuring over 40 vendors, fresh produce, live music and craft beer. gnvmarket.com

Gainesville Health & Fitness, 4820 W

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET

Fridays from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. 23517 NW 185th Road

HIGH SPRINGS – Florida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy and meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. highsprings.us/farmersmarket

Newberry Road

GAINESVILLE – GHFarmers Market is your onestop shop of healthy vegetables, fresh fruit, free-range eggs, grass-fed meats, and more locally sourced products from local farmers. ghfc.com

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COLUMN

Naked Salsa

B Y C R Y S TA L H E N R Y

GET DIVORCED ON MONDAY RAINDROPS ON ROSES ARE GREAT, BUT HAVE YOU TRIED DIVORCE? IT’S STRANGE TO SEE MY DIVORCE AS ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS. BUT THE JOURNEY THAT IT’S TAKEN ME ON HAS BEEN ONE OF SELF-DISCOVERY AND GROWTH. AND THROUGH THAT JOURNEY I’VE LEARNED A LOT ABOUT THE THINGS I LIKE AND THE THINGS I DON’T. For instance I really don’t like custody agreements. But I really do like Mondays. When two people get married they’re told that the ceremony is a time when two souls become one. We throw around phrases like “my better half,” and we celebrate the loss of individuality. You’re fused with another person. You’re more valuable as a couple. And so you lean into the roles that are laid before you. I’m no longer a woman. I’m a wife. And my highly valued identity as a wife relies on the existence of my husband. I didn’t intend to be a wife so young. I met my husband when I was only 19. He was engaged to another girl when we met, but I was no home-wrecker. He just so happened to call me up the day after they broke up. We went out the next day, and we then spent the next 18 years together. It shouldn’t be legal to get married just five days after your 20th birthday. I couldn’t even drink booze or rent a car. But I could make the choice to legally tether myself to another human being. Not only were we too young to get a beer, but we also had no idea who we were as individuals. How on earth did we expect to merge our souls? When he asked me the first time I even said no. I didn’t want to get married until I was 30 at least. But, he persisted, and marriage was on the Successful Life BINGO card. So at the ripe age of 19, I found myself planning a wedding.

There were a million red flags in the short three months before the ceremony, which should surprise no one since we were mere children. And on my wedding day, as I stood for a quiet moment staring into the mirror, waiting for my brother to come walk me down the aisle to give me away, I remember thinking I shouldn’t do it. I wanted to call it off, but everyone was already seated. The deposits had been paid. The string quartet was already queuing up my music. As my brother peeked in the doorway to collect me, I remember thinking “It’s fine. Don’t upset everyone. You can always just get divorced on Monday.” I had that same thought, “You can always get divorced on Monday,” more times than I could count in the 18 years we were together. When things were especially bad I’d have the thought multiple times a day when I was sobbing alone on the living room floor. And when things were better I’d maybe only have that thought once every few months. But the Mondays always passed by. At first I didn’t want to disappoint our wedding guests, then I didn’t want to disappoint our family. Then I didn’t want to disappoint our children. When we were first married I couldn’t do Monday because we were a thousand miles away from anyone I knew. After the babies came, Monday had to wait because I couldn’t just up and leave with two young kids and no job to support us. As the babies grew, I just started watching each Monday pass by thinking that I’d choose the Monday after our youngest daughter’s graduation. But that Monday seemed awfully far away. Along the way I’d given up so much control over my own life because it was just easier to let him handle the money, the house, the oil changes. I’d merged just like I was taught, so I wasn’t a whole person anymore. And my part of the partnership just kept dwindling until I was just a sliver of a partner with no real purpose. I always told him I could have easily been replaced by a hooker, a nanny and a maid. I wasn’t a valuable piece of the partnership anymore, and I didn’t even think I was capable of being an adult on my own. I wasn’t capable of cleaving from that melded chunk of marriage and surviving the separation. Then, when things were as good as they’d ever been in our marriage, Monday came. It was actually the fact that things were as good as they’d ever been that made me realize they’d never be good enough. So one day, after yet another benign fight about not feeling like I was enough for him, I decided I was enough for me. That Monday, I started taking the same steps I’d started to take before — look for a place to live, find a divorce attorney, think about what custody might look like. But this time I wasn’t worried about disappointing our wedding guests. I made up my mind by Wednesday. And on Thursday, I asked for a divorce. And although I’m not sure what the next few Mondays will bring, I now know that I have the strength to choose one of my new favorite things — me.

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

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Across the Globe The Adventures of South Africa S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY AUG US TUS HOFF

dventurers who have the opportunity and privilege to travel can further understand the perspectives of others and also the misconceptions about certain cultures. This is why traveling is so important to the human experience. Across the globe, within one of the 54 countries in Africa, it is impossible not to create this broadened perspective; specifically in the country of South Africa. This republic can transform people’s attitudes about Africa itself and the entire globe. South Africa contains a variety of cultural experiences such as hiking, scuba diving, the rural African Safari, and visiting smaller African towns. While some may define South Africa as a product of its capital, Cape Town is alternatively quite the opposite. Cape Town is a simple concoction of the complex cultures around the beautiful country. Here’s a look at what this beautiful and often misunderstood country has to offer.

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ADVENTURE AWAITS

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TRAVEL >> SOUTH AFRICA The African Bush Elephant is an endemic species to the continent of Africa. They are the largest land mammal in the world.

Hiking Upon flying into Cape Town, the stunning mountain range making up Table Mountain National Park surrounds the capital. Forty thousand acres of protected land ranging from penguin-filled beaches to rock and mountain climbing hot spots make up the nation. As an oasis away from the urban areas, it is not uncommon for South Africans to use the natural resources around them through their activities. Cable cars connect the mountain to sea level to ensure that all visitors can see the stunning view of the bay. While hiking, it is inevitable to see the hundreds of different plant species that make up the endemic floral kingdom of Table Mountain. Endemic, meaning exclusive to a particular geographical area, is a description used often within South Africa. During a hike, the scattered bays along the coast are home to many endemic species. Hikes are hidden almost at every corner, following steep steps leading to another trek to achieve. Summiting the mountain is hard work, but the people on the trail offer a lending hand, figuratively and literally. Many mountaineers complete the summit daily, sprinting through rigid rocks that form the loose path up to the top. But those same mountaineers are more than willing to help with directions along the way and make sure no one gets left behind on the summit. The summit takes around five hours or so to complete at a moderate pace. It is important to note that once on top, it is not a guarantee that there will be a running cable car to bring hikers back to the base. Summiting forces those brave mountaineers to 68 |

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come down the ragged rocks they just climbed. To some, going down is more challenging than coming up. However, once at the top, the view of the bay is worth the hard work of the summit. The bay also falls under the reign of a biodiversity protection mission led by the South African government. As a result, most of False Bay is considered a Marine Protected Area, or MPA. Under the sea is where the next adventure of South Africa begins.

Scuba Diving While looking at the top of the water from a hike can be beautiful, it is unparalleled to the experience that scuba or freediving can give. The serene quiet rivaled by the full spectrum of blue shades creates a perfect backdrop for the biodiversity hot spot. Specifically, in South Africa, there are several types of diving. On the Atlantic side to the west, the water becomes colder. In contrast, tropical waters reside on the Indian Ocean to the east. Whale sharks often make their appearance in the warmer waters as compared to the world-recognized whale watching of the southern right and humpback whales. On a smaller scale, smaller endemic sharks such as Shy Sharks and biological wonders like Nudibranchs make up the water beneath the surface. Great white sharks also roam the waters along the coast. During their summers, water temperatures can range from 68 degrees F, while they can reach as little as 44 degrees F in Cape Town in the winter. The temperature differences are

TRAVEL >> SOUTH AFRICA

Often curious, the Cape Fur Seals came to the camera with ease. They reside mainly at the dive sight Partridge Point in False Bay, South Africa.

because of the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean mixing, and some Southern Ocean influence to create the waters around Cape Town. Cold waters warrant a thick wetsuit to ensure the deterrent of hypothermia. Once kitted up, the waters of South Africa are home to one of Bloomberg ’s new Seven World Wonders: The African Kelp Forest. The kelp invites species that are solely specific to that biome, making it common to see octopus, sharks, seals and massive schools of fish. Interviewing local dive shop impact divers, one of the instructors describes the diving off South Africa as an experience like none other. Because many of the waters are in Marine Protected Areas, this opens up conservation organizations to pursue conservation efforts. One example of this is Cape Radd, a research and diver development group that teaches the importance of citizen science while exercising the monitoring of biodiversity. Mike

Barron, one of the leaders of this organization, describes the diving here as “top banana,” meaning it’s a top-tier location for anyone with interest in the ocean.

Safari After a refreshing and educational swim in the chilly waters, once traveling northbound into the heart of South Africa, pure African wilderness begins to take shape. Game reserves and vast open valleys and mountain ranges spread across the land as if there are no state or country boundaries – only terrain. On safari in the Northern-Western Cape in the Karoo, it is possible to see various animals. Two massive African Bush Elephants stroll throughout the beginning of the Savannah to let their presence be known at the Inverdoorn Reserve. The reserve channeled explorers through their Range Rovers to find wildlife ranging in size. Adventurers can see giraffes, elephants, zebras, hippos, springbok, cheetahs, JULY/AUG 2022

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TRAVEL >> SOUTH AFRICA lions and even the critically endangered white rhino along the reserve. Luckily, a majority are available to witness and photograph, making it the perfect spot for a wildlife photographer or enthusiast. To arrive, the driver can truly experience the South African highway system. Most people call it the ‘Garden Route,” which is a stretch of highway that goes across the Southern Coast of South Africa, giving the drivers a stunning coastline. It is necessary to know how to drive a manual car there, as there are very few automatic transmission vehicles. It is likely to see wild ostrich or maybe one or two cars as well. The Garden Route also goes through the town of Mosselbaai or Mossel Bay. The small town is home to some of the best white shark diving globally. Towns like Mossel Bay are sporadically placed along with the country, including places like Simon’s Town.

migrate towards Antarctica during their winter months and last for mating during their summer months. However, Boulder’s Beach, located in Simon’s Town, is a permanent residency for the little creatures. South Africa is also a pioneer in the concept of load-shedding, an adaptive way to save the country’s limited power supply for the use of the whole nation. Approximately six times a week, the main-power grid is turned off in some populated regions for around two hours. Power cuts allow the government to save on local and nationwide power costs. In addition, load-shedding creates a micro-culture, with generators being standard and people being less reliant on electronic devices. With the power off, it is also easier to spot the Milky Way in the dark sky above, which can be seen clearly without light pollution.

The African Town

Traveling often brings with it a feeling of connectedness and compassion: two things often missed in daily life. Seeing the complexity and beauty of South Africa helps piece together the common misconception of Africa – one of limited resources and culture. However, upon immediate arrival, you discover that it is so much more than the limited perspectives one may hear. South Africa allows explorers to dive deeper into their passions and the diverse culture of such a beautiful country from land to sea.

Simon’s Town is a quaint Navy town, home to one of the busiest harbors in South Africa. Four large ships make up the small South African Navy. Still, what they lack in numbers, they make up for in spirit. The town is full of Naval officers who are more than happy to share a drink and tell a story. This place is also home to a few Hollywood media sensations. Simon’s Town is the setting of Netflix films “My Octopus Teacher” and “Penguin Town.” With the residents of Simon’s Town comes the South African Penguin. They deem this place the only location in South Africa where it is possible to stay all year round. Usually, the penguins 70 |

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A South African Farewell

Adventure brings along more than just stories: adventure opens the eyes of a once closed mind.

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Beloved Past Businesses of Gainesville Hey, do you remember…? W R I T T E N B Y J O A N N A G R E Y TA L B O T

f you ask anyone who has lived in Gainesville for any length of time what their favorite past local business is you’re bound to get a long list: Doug’s Dairy Twirl, Wilson’s, Woolworth’s, Mom’s Kitchen, the soda counter at Wise’s Drug Store, Great Southern Music Hall, Lillian’s Music Store, Maas Brothers, Jay’s Dress Shop, Chesnut’s Office Supply, Lipham Music Company, and more. Memories of these businesses, plus the four featured in this article, can immediately bring a smile to someone’s face – a delicious meal eaten, new shoes bought for school, or their first guitar or fishing rod.

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FORGET ME NOT

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MEMORY LANE >> BELOVED BUSINESSES

PHOTO COURTESY OF: ACLD

Baird Hardware

One of the city’s largest businesses, Baird Hardware, was founded in 1890 by Eberle Baird. The business originally catered to the phosphate mining industry. A couple years later Baird added harness and saddlery, guns and ammunition, and sporting goods. In 1897 the city’s first electric light plant opened, so Baird began offering refrigerators and freezers. Baird continue to buy building space at the corner of East University Avenue and Southeast 1st Avenue and by 1900 the store took up threefourths of the block. Cicero Addison Pound began working at Baird Hardware as a stock boy in 1908, moving up to traveling salesmen (one of the first to do it by car), and manager. In 1911 he married Annie Cannon. In 1915 their only child, Cicero Addison Pound, Jr., was born. Addison, Sr., continued at Baird Hardware and in 1930 he took over as president after Eberle Baird died. His strong work ethic and adaptability kept the business not only afloat but thriving through the years of the Great Depression. He and Annie were heavily involved in the community, including donating the land for the current Gainesville High School, building the pool at Glen Springs, and serving as members of many local organizations. By 1954 Pound had expanded the store’s offerings to include automotive, boat, plumbing, electrical, and radio and television departments. If you couldn’t find it at Baird Hardware, then you probably couldn’t find it anywhere. Pound’s son, Addison, Jr., graduated from the University of Florida and became a naval aviator for ten years, including serving in “MacArthur’s Navy” in the South Pacific during World War II and helping search for Amelia Earhart. In 1939 76 |

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PHOTO COURTESY OF: THE MATHESON

he married Anne Richardson. After the war he moved back to Gainesville and began working at the store. In 1962 he became president of Baird Hardware. During his tenure the business switched to wholesale only and after 90 years of operation he closed the store in 1980. The downtown building was torn down in 1975 to make way for the new county courthouse and Community Plaza (now Bo Diddley Plaza). The Baird Warehouse on South Main Street is still standing and today is home to the Acrosstown Repertory Theatre.

Mama Lo’s

In the 1982 book “Famous Florida! Underground Gourmet Restaurants, Recipes & Reflections” the author declared that “Gainesville is a blend of young and old, of New South and Old South. And, nothing in Gainesville more perfectly exemplifies that blend than Mama Lo’s.” Located at 618 NW 6th Street, Mama Lo’s Restaurant was owned and operated by Lorene “Mama Lo” Alexander from 19671995. It was originally named Lo’s Grill but was affectionately renamed by a group of University of Florida students. Lorene remembered that one of the students looked up at her and said, “You’re Mama a long way from home.” The name stuck. Lorene began her career in food service as a young girl helping her grandmother who operated a roadside food stand in Gainesville. At the age of 15 she married her husband, Curtis, and moved around the country during his career in the Army. After returning to Gainesville, she took over her mother’s boarding house and learned how to cook. She closed it in the mid-1950s and eventually opened her restaurant.

MEMORY LANE >> BELOVED BUSINESSES

PHOTO COURTESY OF: BARRY BAUMSTEIN

Mama Lo’s was beloved for its southern home cooking – a daily special, 18 different meat dishes, 20 kinds of vegetables, cornbread, and 9 desserts – all made in house. Two of her most famous dishes were her broccoli casserole and eggplant casserole. Every morning she wrote the menus by hand on a few pieces of blue-lined notebook paper. Everyone from UF students to police officers were regular patrons. It’s even said that Bo Diddley and Tom Petty enjoyed a meal or two at Mama Lo’s. In 1989 the restaurant received a mention in GQ Magazine. The restaurant consisted of two wood-paneled rooms – one with a pool table and juke box and the other with tables covered in red-checked tablecloths. Lorene was assisted by a small staff, which included her husband, Curtis, and her two daughters. In 1989, food writers Jane and Michael Stern visited Mama Lo’s. They reported that “it’s as unpretentious an eatery as you will find anywhere. […] What you get for your money in this plebian setting is a royal feast.” Every morning Lorene visited local markets to purchase her supplies for the day and grew many of her vegetables in a garden behind the restaurant. In 1987 she told author John Egerton for his book “Southern Food: At Home, on the Road, in History,” “I have fresh vegetables every day. That’s what home cooking is, and it’s better than any other kind. […] My customers love it, and I don’t ever worry about them losing their taste for it.” Mama Lo’s closed in 1995 when Lorene decided to retire because “I don’t think nobody else would run it like I do. That would make me feel bad.” The Gainesville Sun covered the closing: “Alexander said she’s going to miss two things most as she retires to fish and work in her garden. ‘I’m going to miss the

people,’ she said. ‘I love people and they love me. And I’m going to miss the chicken and rice.’”

Louis’ Lunch

Louis Pennisi was born in 1897 in Mascali, Sicily. He immigrated to the US in 1911 with two of his uncles. He eventually found his way to Florida, helping to build the post office in Palatka, and moved to Gainesville in 1920. Louis began as an ice cream vendor and opened the city’s first ice cream plant, Louis’ Pure Ice Cream Company, in a building adjoining the former Commercial Hotel. His horse and wagon were a frequent sight around town. In 1923 he opened a new plant next to the future location of Louis’ Lunch on SE 2nd Street. He served flavors such as tutti frutti, strawberry, peach, coffee, chocolate, and vanilla. A fire destroyed the building in 1933, so he discontinued the ice cream business, built the beloved Louis’ Lunch, and began specializing in hamburgers. He modified his mother’s recipe for meatballs to make the hamburgers and to this day the recipe is still a secret. He sold the business to his son Freddie in 1952 but continued to flip burgers until he retired in 1994. Sadly, Freddie was killed at the diner during a burglary attempt in 1993. His brother, Tom, bought the diner from his widow in 1995 and kept the favorite lunch spot going until 2010. On Louis’s 100th birthday in 1997, the city declared it “Louis Pennisi Day” and the lunch crowd was standing room only. Louis died in 2003 at the age of 106. A September 2021 social media post by the Matheson History Museum about Louis’ Lunch received over 9,000 views across JULY/AUG 2022

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MEMORY LANE >> BELOVED BUSINESSES

PHOTO COURTESY OF: MATHESON MUSEUM

PHOTO COURTESY OF: ACLD

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Followers commented how much they missed going to Louis’ Lunch with their family, especially for a hamburger – “the best in town!”

Primrose Inn & Grill

Byron and Louise Winn were married in Georgia in 1914 and began raising their family. In the early 1920s they joined the flood of people moving to Florida for better opportunities. They settled in Gainesville and opened the Primrose Grill across the street from its longtime location. In a 1974 Gainesville Sun article, Louise joked that she couldn’t boil water so she had to learn

to cook from her mother who had moved to Gainesville with them. On Monday, November 3, 1924, the Primrose Grill held its formal opening. The Gainesville Sun shared that “the lower floor was decorated in quantities of yellow chrysanthemums, and twelve tables were placed attractively in the rooms, the colors of primrose yellow and brown dominating.” The opening night menu included “oyster cocktail – saltines, queen olives, celery hearts, roast turkey – dressing, cranberry sauce, stewed rice, creamed peas, homemade rolls, lettuce and tomato salad, silly bubb, fruit cake, and coffee.” They offered breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In 1927 they purchased the home of a University of Florida professor at 214 West University Avenue, which stood across the street, and renovated it into the restaurant on the first floor and 12-room inn on the second floor.

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For over sixty years, the Primrose Grill served as the favorite location for many banquets, club meetings, luncheons, wedding receptions, dinner parties, and Sunday lunch. People remember the beautiful setting, delicious food, excellent customer service, and the yeast rolls. Always the yeast rolls. Winn was a big fan of the local baseball team the Gainesville G-Men and regularly hosted them for pre-game meals. A 1938 Gainesville Sun article states, “Each of the G-Men this noon placed a nice, big steak under their belts and their demeanor indicated that these steaks boded no good for the Leesburg Gondoliers when the two teams clash at Harris Field at 8:15pm tonight. As fine a dinner as any of the G-Men have eaten in many a day served to each of the G-Men by one of the team’s most loyal fans, Major B. M. Winn at his Primrose Grill today.” Byron Winn, Jr. took over the management of the Primrose after World War II and discontinued breakfast service. He served as a Gainesville city commissioner from 1961-65 and mayor-commissioner in 1963-64. During his term as mayor, Winn served as chairman of the city’s first

bi-racial committee. According to his 1996 Gainesville Sun obituary, “the committee was established in the turbulent days of the civil rights movement to help Gainesville through a challenging time of transition. […] Winn was known for his fairness, planning and organizational skills, and tireless devotion to work, whether in his eateries or city hall.” Ed Turlington, who succeeded Winn, Jr. as mayor, said “Winn recognized that Gainesville was entering a new era and that the city needed to respond to the coming changes – from integration of schools to establishing parks.” The Primrose Grill was one of the first Gainesville restaurants to integrate. Room accommodations were ended in 1971. Winn, Jr. sold the restaurant to John C. McCraw in 1974 so he could focus on his other restaurant, the Winnjammer, and his hobbies of bridge and photography. McCraw operated the Primrose until he closed it in 1988. The building is home to offices today. Here’s to the beloved local businesses of the past!

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Restaurant Guide

Cilantro Tacos Authentic Mexican — BA 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!

Tioga Town Center - 12921 SW 1 Rd Suite #103 352-472-1300 Alachua - 15551 NW US HWY 441 Unit# 50 352-660-3262 Monday - Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm

eatcilantrotacos.com

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza Italian Restaurant — 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.

For full menu and list of locations visit: PIESANOSTOGO.COM Now Serving: Gainesville, Ocala, The Villages, Clermont & Windermere, Coming soon: Lake City & St. Augustine Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm Order online or Download our App: PIESANOSTOGO.COM

Copper Monkey West Restaurant & Pub — 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.

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 80 |

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mycoppermonkey.com

Restaurant Guide

Leonardo’s Pizza 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.

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

352-376-2001

leonardosmillhopper.com

That Bar and Table Neighborhood Bar and Restaurant —Located in the Haile Market Square Publix center, we are locally owned and operated, family friendly (including dogs!), and offer indoor and outdoor dining! Lunch specials available Mon-Fri and brunch is served on weekends. Daily specials include Cluckin’ Monday, Taco Tuesday, Burger Wednesday, Wine-Night Thursday, and amazing weekend Chef’s specials beginning each Friday! Our scratch kitchen is prepping daily to deliver amazing wing dishes, glorious ½ pound burgers, and a wide selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and dinner entrees. Our skilled bartenders will serve up your favorite cocktail or can recommend one of our house favorites! See you soon!

2725 SW 91st St, Gainesville 11-9 Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 11-10 Wed-Sat

352-331-6620

thatbarandtable.com

Bangkok Square 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.

Two Gainesville Locations: 6500 SW Archer Road & 8181 NW 38th Lane Archer-M,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm 38th Ln.-T,W,TH, 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 SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL 352-372-5468 FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

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Restaurant Guide

The Paper Bag Deli and Catering — Using only the freshest ingredients and serving the highest quality meats and cheeses, The Paper Bag Deli in Gainesville is quickly becoming the destination for custom prepared meals designed for people with a time sensitive schedule. Serving premium Boar’s Head meats, The Paper Bag has quick serve cold options you can grab and go from the fridge or order hot options from the counter. Have time to stay a while? You can relax on their sunny patio or at the bar-style seating and enjoy a variety of freshly baked artisan sandwiches, wraps, salads and much more. Enjoy your favorite local and domestic beers or order to go! We have many catering options for corporate, schools, and private parties. Call ahead to pick you order today! Park Lane Apartments 5750 SW 75th Court Suite 20 Open Monday - Friday 10am - 6 pm

(352) 451-4972

thepaperbagdeli.com

Brown’s Country Buffet 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.

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

Scuola Pizza Greek and Italian Cuisine— At Scuola Pizza, their goal is not only to provide delicious pizza and entrees, but also to enhance the casual dining experience. When the Sinis family moved to Gainesville from Greece, their goal was to open a restaurant where the ambiance was as unique as the signature dishes. Influenced by European culture and Mediterranean cuisine, Scuola Pizza serves delightful Mediterranean dishes in a relaxing atmosphere of books and vintage decor. With outdoor seating available and spacious dining room, Scuola Pizza offers a variety of daily and weekly specials. Dine-In or Carryout available. Call or stop by today.

5204 NW 34th Blvd. Tue. - Thurs. 11am- 9pm Friday and Saturday 11am - 9:30pm Sunday 4pm—9pm

(352) 451-4122 82 |

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scuolapizzagainesville@gmail.com

Restaurant Guide

Rock N Roll Sushi American-style Sushi — Founded on great food and rock ‘n’ roll music, we boast concepts and flavors that are big, bold, and loud. We’re the only place to experience the rock you love and the rolls you love with the ones you love. Meals at Rock N Roll sushi are multi-sensory events to remember, with culinary concepts and flavors that are louder, bolder, and bigger than the competitions. Our menu items are deliciously twisted and made fresh for everyone. And, like rock ‘n’ roll, they bring people together. Since day one, the most rewarding part of our work has been seeing guests fall in love with our amplified dining experience and become fans who return again and again. 13005 SW 1st Rd Suite 137, Jonesville, FL 32669 (Tioga Town Center) Sunday - Thursday: 11:00am - 9:00pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00am - 10:00pm

352-225-3087 • rocknrollsushi.com

El Toro 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!

15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza) Monday – Sat 11:00am – 9:00pm Sunday 12:00pm – 8:00pm

386-418-1039

www.eltorogainesville.com

Mi Apá Latin Café Cuban — When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apá Latin Cafe,” said Trekbible in their article, top 8: Best Restaurants in gainesville, FL. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Vaca Frita, Medianoche sandwiches, and their local favorite, Cafe con leche, we bring the tastes of Cuba to Gainesville and Alachua. Whether you’re dining in our sunny patio or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And our Gainesville location even has a drive-thru, as will our new Jonesville location, opening Summer of 2021! Don’t forget kids eat free every Wednesday from 4:00-9:00pm!

Alachua – 15634 US Highway 441 (386-418-0838) Gainesville - 114 SW 34th ST (352-376-7020) Jonesville - 14209 W Newberry RD NOW OPEN! (352-545-4430)

MiApaLatinCafe.com SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL 352-372-5468 FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

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Restaurant Guide

Dave’s New York Deli Authentic NY deli — The Reviews are in and here’s what customers are saying about Dave’s NY Deli Tioga Town Center! “Best Reuben, Best Pastrami and Best Philly. Dave’s continues to be the place to go for authentic NY Deli food and Philly Cheesesteaks. Owners Dave and Melissa say “Nothing beats quality ingredients combined with a friendly staff. Dave’s Deli serves New York size Pastrami and Corned Beef sandwiches, Cheesecake from New York, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Knish, Cannolies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Cubans, Subs, Kids Menu and more.” Come out and enjoy Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Dave’s NY Deli. Now serving beer and wine. 12921 SW 1st Road • Tioga Town Center Open 7 Days

352-333-0291

www.DavesNYDeli.com

Stone House Grill Great steaks, seafood and more — Visit us at Stone House Neighborhood Grill for the ultimate dining experience. We are a full-service restaurant located in Newberry, Florida. The owners and operators have over 20+ years of experience in the food service industry, and a passion for providing exceptional food and service that will leave all customers coming back for more. Enjoy our unique variety of menu options for lunch or dinner. Lunch specials Monday-Friday. Happy hour 3-6 Monday through friday.

1759 SW 248th Drive Newberry 32669 Monday - Thursday 11am-10pm Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday 11am-9pm

352-354-8023

www.stonehousenewberry.com

Crafty Bastards Restaurant - Pub — Crafty Bastards Restaurant has lunch specials M-F 11am4pm. Come see our NEW Menu items, including fresh salads and soups. Don’t worry, we still proudly serve what you have voted, the best Wings, Burgers, Fish n’ Chips, and REAL Shepherds Pie around! While also offering entertainment every day of the week, we have the largest selection of 60 Craft Beers on tap, and next door at the Bottle Shoppe, we offer over 750 varieties of Craft Beer with Free Beer Tastings every Thursday. 6p-8p. Visit our social media and web for ongoing events and new craft beer. Private party room for office or birthday parties available. CRAFTY BASTARDS - WELCOME HOME!

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

352-872-5970 84 |

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www.thecraftybastards.com

Restaurant Guide

The Social at Midtown 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! Expect more and let us help turn your event into a true occasion. The right environment can create the perfect experience. We have 3 distinctly different event spaces, we’ve got the perfect space to enjoy your time with friends, family and business colleagues.

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

352-373-7383

www.thesocialgnv.com

I Love NY Pizza Pizzeria — We are a family owned, family friendly restaurant that serves authentic New York style pizza and delicious Italian entrees. We offer dine, take out, delivery and catering. We make everything fresh and with high quality ingredients from our dough, to our sauce, to each of our dishes — including classics such as Baked Ziti, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, Chicken Marsala or Alfredo, and many more. If you are in the mood for pizza, you can “take and bake” at home or let us prepare you one of our specialty Brick oven pizzas. So many choices of specialty pizzas, try them all! Pizza by the slice is available for lunch or dinner! Let’s not forget about the Stromboli, Calzones, Salads, Desserts and yes, we have a kids menu too! What ever you choose, we guarantee to bring you all the unique flavors of New York City. Visit our website for a full menu and coupons. 2645 SW 91st St, Haile Plantation (Market square) Gainesville Monday-Saturday 10:00am – 9:00pm Closed on Sundays

352-333-6185

www.ilnyp.com

Mr. and Mrs. Crab Customized Seafood Experience — Mr. and Mrs. Crab’s hand-held seafood integrates American country taste with traditional Szechuan spices to create a unique taste. After you’ve decided what types of seafood you would like to indulge yourself in, our chefs will have your food cooked to perfection and placed in our specially designed seafood boil bags to be tossed in one of our mouthwatering seasonings. We have a vast selection of seafood to choose from, accompanied by our famous Mr. & Mrs. Crab house seasonings. We can’t wait for you to try our Asian-inspired, Louisiana style seafood boils. We’re confident after you’ve had a taste, you’ll be sharing your Mr. and Mrs. Crab story with all your friends!

(Butler Plaza Central) 3246 SW 35th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32608 Sun to Thur 12 pm - 10 pm Fri and Sat 12 pm - 11 pm

(352) 554-5968

www.mmcseafood.com

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL 352-372-5468 FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

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RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

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Benefits of being a member

This month, we asked our members to tell us a few of their favorite things about being a part of Radiant Credit Union. Here’s what they had to say. Lower Rates Credit unions are member-owned non-profits, so we’re able to pass savings on to our members. We’re able to cut and reduce certain fees like overdrafts, loan origination fees and annual account fees. Plus we’re able to return money to our members through things like cash back checking accounts. Better Rates Interest rates are through the roof right now, but as a credit union, we’re able to offer more competitive rates on things like home loans and auto refinancing. And our loans often have better terms and conditions than other financial institutions. On the flip side, we’re also able to offer higher savings rates and dividends. Our members are able to enjoy a higher return on investments on things like CDs, savings accounts and checking account balances.

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Employees who care Through the Radiant Rays of Hope Foundation, our employees make voluntary donations and volunteer their time to support local charities and communities. The Foundation Board of Directors receive community support suggestions from employees and local organizations in need. Learn more about the Foundation at www.RaysofHope.org. More Options Your Radiant Credit Union membership gives you access to a wider variety of financial products, including HSA accounts and retirement accounts. We also offer flexible loan products and better terms for people who might need help due to poor credit or low income. Free resources Our collaborative approach means we want our members to stay informed. By investing in the growth and education of our members and our community, we’re helping people feel empowered and build their wealth. We offer free resources like financial planning and seminars, as well as free online account tools to help with budgeting, investing and getting out of debt. Community support Each month, Radiant asks our members to tell us the charities that are making the biggest impact in our community. Our members enter their favorite charities in a contest on Facebook, and not only does the winner get $1,000, but the nominating member gets $100 as well. It’s an incredible way to stay connected with our members and discover new organizations that are making our world a better place to live.

PROTECT YOUR SAVINGS! Radiant’s Adjustable-Rate Certificate protects your savings from rising inflation by adjusting to changing interest rates.

These are just a few of our members’ favorite things about being a part of Radiant Credit Union. We’d love to hear more about what you love!| Let us know on Facebook why you chose Radiant Credit Union and tag #RadiantCreditUnion Scan below to see our current rates!

Visit: RadiantCU.org/protect Call: (877) 786-7828 Radiant Credit Union is Federally Insured by the NCUA JULY/AUG 2022 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE | 89

TR AILBLAZR

Rie Burton and her daughter, Jill Burton, at Rie’s book signing at the Historic Thomas Center in 2016, photo used by permission.

QUEEN OF THE HISTORIC THOMAS CENTER

Rie Burton W R I T T E N B Y J O A N N A G R E Y TA L B O T

STEADFAST. PASSIONATE. INSIGHTFUL. ELEGANT. INSPIRING. These are just a few of the many ways that the friends and family of Rie Burton describe her. Having recently turned 90, Mrs. Burton has been a fixture of the Gainesville arts and cultural scene since she moved to the city in the 1960s. She is adored by all who know her because of who she is, not just for the many things she has done for the community. Yet, if you have ever visited the Historic Thomas Center on NE 6th Avenue, then you have witnessed her years of hard work and determination. The Thomas Center was originally constructed from 19061910 as a private home called Sunkist Villa. Major William 90 |

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Reuben Thomas, his wife, Kathryn, and their five children lived there for 15 years. A native of Gainesville, Major Thomas began his career in education but in 1895 he switched to business and politics and was elected to the Florida Senate, serving for four years. Over the years he founded or assumed interest in many Gainesville businesses, including Dutton Bank, the White House Hotel, and a Tin Can Tourist Camp. Major Thomas also served as a city alderman and then mayor from 1901-1907. During his tenure he led the delegation that successfully campaigned for the University of Florida to come to Gainesville. Major Thomas, always on the lookout for ways to draw

RIE BURTON >> HISTORIC THOMAS CENTER

(Left) Rie’s senior portrait at Corpus Christi High School in 1948; (middle and right) The Hotel Thomas reception room and exterior in the 1930s, courtesy of the Alachua County Library District, (below) Rie with Jean Marshall and Frank Cellon celebrating their April birthdays this year.

tourists to the area, knew that the city lacked a resort hotel. In the late 1920s he decided to construct an addition to his 15,000 square foot home and turn it into a luxury hotel. On January 10, 1928, the Hotel Thomas opened with Governor John Martin in attendance. For the next forty years the Hotel Thomas welcomed guests from near and far, whether to enjoy a stay in one of the 94 rooms or attend a wedding or banquet or enjoy a special dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. Major Thomas died in 1943 and Kathryn in 1948, leaving the hotel to their children. With the moving of the railroad to 6th Street, the opening of Interstate 75, and the rise of the popularity of beach vacations, the family decided to close the hotel in 1968. It was purchased and leased to Santa Fe College while its campus was being built across town and then fell into disrepair. In 1972 a rezoning request was submitted to the city’s planning board to have the building razed. In response, the historic preservation nonprofit called Historic Gainesville Inc. was founded by Sam Gowan and lobbied to have the building saved and restored. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and the City of Gainesville bought it in 1974. The city renovated the building into office

space and turned the original Sunkist Villa section into the Historic Thomas Center – a place for the community to host events, attend art exhibits, and learn about Gainesville of the 1920s. Sam Gowan led the campaign to rescue the Hotel Thomas. Rie Burton has kept it alive and vibrant. Rie, originally from Texas, married James Burton in 1951. At the time he was a member of the Air Force, so she spent the first 13 years of her marriage as a military wife. Mrs. Burton’s passion for arts and culture was heightened as an art major at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, Texas, and continued to broaden as she traveled the world with the Air Force. James retired from the Air Force in the 1960s and they moved to Gainesville where he served as an administrator at the brand-new Veterans Affairs Hospital. Rie managed their household and became involved in the local community. She became a member of the Gainesville Fine Arts Association, League of Women Voters, and a docent at the University Galleries. During this time Rie closely followed the renovation of the Hotel Thomas and was excited to see that an art gallery and JULY/AUG 2022

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RIE BURTON >> HISTORIC THOMAS CENTER PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL EADDY

performance area were part of the plan. In 1979 the all-volunteer Thomas Center Associates (TCA) were founded to support the Thomas Center and its gardens. The second president was Sharon Connell, who was also serving as a docent at the University Galleries with Rie. In 1980 Sharon invited Rie to join the board of the Thomas Center Associates and help create the docent program. TCA wanted a major piece of their mission to be outreach to students. After contacting the Alachua County Public School system, they decided that third graders would be their focus since part of their curriculum is to learn about their local community. More than anything Rie wanted the students to learn about the impact that the Thomas family had on Gainesville. Margaret Thomas Hawkins, the youngest of the Thomas children, was still living and had moved back to Gainesville when Rie created the

PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL EADDY

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tours, so she was able to draw from her wealth of family stories and memories. Margaret herself would also come to the Thomas Center to meet the children. She added a personal element to the tour that Rie absolutely loved. In the midst of creating the docent program, Rie also took on the important job of creating the four period rooms. Before the Thomas Center Associates were founded the Junior League of Gainesville had begun researching and creating the period rooms, but they were incomplete. Rie with her positive attitude, tireless work ethic, and eye for detail transformed the rooms into what they are today with the help of her fellow Board member and friend Jean Marshall. According to Jean, “I became her ‘picker’ as my husband and I traveled from Florida to New England. Rie was the mastermind, and it was her vision. She did research and studied pictures [of the Sunkist Villa and Hotel Thomas]. Through her relationship with the Thomas family, she learned many details, such as the fact that Major Thomas kept a blue bottle of milk of magnesia next to his bedside. So, I of course had to find her a blue bottle of milk of magnesia from that time period.” Today the period rooms are still enjoyed by the third graders, and anyone can take a self-guided tour, both in-person and on the TCA’s website. You can also learn more about the Hotel Thomas and its restoration by reading “The Thomas Center: An Illustrated Guide,' a book written and compiled by Rie Burton and Sam Gowan.

RIE BURTON >> HISTORIC THOMAS CENTER

No matter how many compliments and thank you’s Rie receives she will always be self-effacing and deflect the attention. This is most evident in one of her favorite stories from her time working at the Thomas Center: “Jean and I found in a magazine that the National Trust was doing a seminar for small house museums in San Antonio, so I attended. On the first morning I was sitting at the back and the presenter asked everyone to introduce themselves. I’m thinking ‘I’m the only non-professional here and I’ll have to be very careful in how I introduce myself.’ They were getting closer and closer to me, and I decided what I was going to say. During the introductions a man sat down in the row behind me. It was my turn, so I said, ‘I’m Rie Burton from Gainesville, Florida, and I coordinate the interpretive programs at a cityowned building that used to be a hotel. Our programs center around period rooms from the 1920s.’ I sat down feeling very proud of myself. The man behind me went next and said, ‘I’m Jim Brown (I don’t remember his name) and I curate the Alamo.’ I will never forget that moment. Needless to say, he didn’t elaborate and sat back down.” Through her uncontrollable laughter of telling that story you can easily see why she spent all those years working to preserve the Historic Thomas Center. Burton knew it was important and “I wouldn’t have done it if I hadn’t enjoyed it so much,” she said. We all owe Rie Burton a debt of gratitude.

One of the exhibits curated by Rie and on display at the Thomas Center, courtesy of the Thomas Center Associates.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL EADDY

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WE’LL GET YOUR FLOORS AND UPHOLSTERY LIKE NEW AGAIN!

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SUN EXPOSURE

TIPS FOR BEATING THE SUMMER HEAT

Staying Cool W R I T T E N B Y D A N A B R YA N

THE SUN IS SHINING, SWEAT IS DRIPPING, AND ALL FANS ARE ON FULL BLAST. THIS CAN ONLY MEAN ONE THING. IT’S SUMMER! AS MUCH AS WE LOVE SOAKING UP VITAMIN D, SOMEWHERE BETWEEN THE STINKY PIT STAINS AND DRY, CHAPPED LIPS, IT BECOMES TOO MUCH. READ THESE TIPS ON HOW TO STAY COOL IN THE SUMMER HEAT.

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1. STAY HYDRATED

2. AVOID GOING OUTSIDE BETWEEN 3PM AND 5PM

The most obvious yet the most overlooked tip is to stay hydrated. Drinking water is crucial for regulating body temperature and keeping your organs functioning properly. It will also help prevent heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or a heat stroke. Try using a reusable water bottle and mark on the bottle how much water you plan to drink by each time of day. It’ll help you keep track of the amount of water you’re consuming and give you a push to drink more. Not to mention, the environment will benefit from less plastic waste in its landfills.

Contrary to popular belief that the hottest time of the day is at noon, the hottest time of day in Florida during the summer is actually between 3pm and 5pm. Avoid going outside during these times to escape when the weather is the most intense. Choose to stay inside instead. Call your mom, read a book, or watch some television—anything to stop you from going outside and maintaining a normal body temperature. Being outside during extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat cramps, heat strokes, heat rashes, and other heat/sun-related sicknesses that can have lasting effects on your health if gone untreated.

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SUMMER TIPS >> BEAT THE HEAT

3. APPLY ICE OR COLD WATER TO YOUR PULSE POINTS

4. CHOOSE COLD FOODS AND BEVERAGES FOR SNACKS

It can be inconvenient and messy to drench yourself in water on a hot day. Focus on your pulse points to cool you down. Pulse points are where blood vessels are close enough to the skin for one’s pulse to be felt. The most commonly known pulse points are the wrists, neck, and ankles. Many people use this tip without knowing how or why it works. By applying ice, cold water, or a cold compress to your pulse points, you are attempting to lower the temperature of your blood, effectively cooling you down. Keep in mind that this is a tool one can use to help cool down, but other precautions or measures should be taken as well.

Eating colder foods like chilled fruit or drinking a cold smoothie on a hot summer day provides an immediate relief to the summer heat and typically has a refreshing aftertaste. Even after the initial cooling effect wears off, eating cold foods may cause a slight decrease in body temperature. Some of the best cooling beverages and foods are coconut water, watermelon, mint, cucumbers, and bananas. For foodies, this is a great opportunity to get creative. Mix and match different foods to create unique flavors and interesting snacks. Take it at as a challenge not to use the oven or stove. As an added benefit, you won’t have to suffer from the additional heat.

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SUMMER TIPS >> BEAT THE HEAT Frequent showers with cold or tepid water help cool down your body in hotter weather. Some of the best cooling beverages and foods are coconut water, watermelon, mint, cucumbers, and bananas.

5. SLEEP ON A COTTON SHEET Cotton sheets are breathable and absorbs moisture. During hot summers, sleeping on cotton sheets can make all the difference. It’s especially recommended for sweaty sleepers. It’s soft, lightweight, and easy to wash. Cotton sheets are extremely common and durable, so they shouldn’t be too hard to find. Fingers crossed they don’t get popular on TikTok. For bonus chill points, fill a spray bottle with water and lightly spritz it on the sheets before bed. As the water evaporates, it’ll leave the fabric feeling nice and cool. If you have some water left over in the bottle, you can also spray it around the room to help stop the air from becoming dry.

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a little too hot for comfort. The water bill will probably be higher this month, but it’s entirely worth it if it means staying cool for even a second longer. Enjoy the refreshing aftermath and revel in the sweet feeling of soap and clean skin. Plus, in COVID times, a second or third shower has never been more valuable.

7. HAVE COMMON SENSE

6. TAKE COLD SHOWERS

The final and most important tip is to have common sense! Listen to the needs of your body. If it’s telling you it’s tired, rest. If it needs electrolytes, drink a sports drink. Stay in an air-conditioned area if the heat becomes too much to bear. I can guarantee you are at your best when healthy, so try your best to be conscious of your body. Self-awareness will do wonders.

It’s hard to match the freeing feeling of cold water hitting your skin after a long, hot day outdoors. Frequent showers with cold or tepid water help cool down your body in hotter weather. It’s an easy trick and tip to hop in the shower when you’re feeling

Stay safe, stay sane, and stay cool this summer with the above suggestions. After all, looking cool means nothing if you can’t stay cool.

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FENCING • TREE REMOVAL • LAND CLEARING

20+ years experience. Most fences come with a warranty.

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MORE EXPERIENCES MORE CELEBRATIONS

More to the Pointe

THERE’S MORE TO DO, SEE AND ENJOY AT CELEBRATION POINTE.

From the best restaurants and shops in town, to concerts, movies and monthly events (including Gator gatherings), Celebration Pointe is the place where a good time is guaranteed. It’s also home to one of the best Regal Cinemas in the country, the endlessly entertaining Dave & Buster’s, the area’s coolest escape experience Escapology, and coming soon, the Alachua County Sports Complex. Come see what the excitement is all about. Drop by Celebration Pointe. Join the Celebration Pointe experience! Just west of I-75 off Archer Road.

VISIT CELEBRATIONPOINTE.COM

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PARADE OF HOMES TM

SPRING 2022

Your Favorites In Over 250 Categories Revealed!!

Congratulations! With over 18,000 votes and more than 250 area businesses, places, people and events nominated, Our Town Magazine is proud to announce the finalists and winners of the 2022 FAVE Awards! Congratulations to everyone nominated and for the incredible support our community has shown these amazing businesses.

Presented by: SHORT MEDIA SPRING 2022

PARADE OF HOMES TM

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STAND OUT WITH

VIDEO

photos by Adrienne Fletcher Photography

Video Services

Commercials

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Weddings

Podcasts

“Thank you Gainesville for voting! Your support matters to us!”

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OU R TOW N FAV E S

J U LY 2 0 2 2

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR READERS FOR VOTING FOR YOUR FAVORITES IN OVER 250 CATEGORIES. WITH OVER 18,000 VOTES AND HUNDREDS OF ENTRIES, WE’RE PROUD TO INTRODUCE YOU TO OUR TOWN’S FAVORITES. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE WINNERS AND FINALISTS!

CULTURE & RECREATION FAVORITE LOCAL ANNUAL EVENT

HOGTOWN CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

Hogtownbeerfest.com At the Hogtown Craft Beer Festival, guests can enjoy live music from local bands, great beer from Florida craft breweries and brewpubs; and food from Gainesville-area restaurants all while learning more about the amazing diversity of beer produced at the local and regional levels. FINALISTS: Rosé Gala Ultimate Scale Truck Expo FAVORITE LOCAL ARTIST

DESIGN BY JESSANNE

Designbyjessanne.com Jessica Anne is a Gainesville-based mixed media artist who specializes in fine art and fine handcrafts. Her free-flowing style is inspired by a deep love of nature and a background in geology and geography as her work combines both science and art through paint-play and media experimentation. FINALISTS: That Henna Girl Samm Wehman Art

FAVORITE LOCAL BAND

UNCLE MORTY’S RHYTHM CREAM

FAVORITE LOCAL BOWLING ALLEY

SPLITZ OF GAINESVILLE

Facebook.com/rhythmcream Uncle Morty’s fulfills all of your Rhythm Cream needs as they’re a soul, R&B and rock cover band based out of Gainesville, complete with a full horn section and specializing in party and danceable music. FINALISTS: Pasture Prime Whiskey Jones

1301 NW 76th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 Aside from earning acclaim as a 30-lane bowling alley with three styles of the sport, Splitz also features a 40-game Arcade Alley, which has the World’s Largest Connect Four, Lazer Runner laser tag and a sports bar and grill – ensuring they offer something for everyone. FINALISTS: Alley Gatorz Bowling Center

FAVORITE LOCAL BIKE TRAIL

FAVORITE LOCAL CAMPING SPOT

GAINESVILLEHAWTHORNE STATE TRAIL

3400 SE 15th St., Gainesville, FL 32641 On this historic railbed turned greenway, you’ll find native plants and wildlife; diverse scenery and backyard Florida culture. Overlooks and stops of interest tie together a rich story of small railroad towns, locomotives and human activity along this corridor. FINALISTS: San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park Hawthorne Bike Trail

GINNIE SPRINGS OUTDOORS, LLC

7300 NE Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643 From a tent by the river to full electric and water hook-ups for your RV, Ginnie Springs Outdoors has got you covered. Camp like a champion with over 200 wooded acres and spring-side tent sites right at your disposal. FINALISTS: Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park and Campground Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE! WE HAVE THE RIGHT PEOPLE AND EQUIPMENT TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR NEEDS.

FAVORITE LOCAL CORPORATE EVENT/PARTY VENUE

1908 GRAND

215 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 1908 Grand is Gainesville’s newest event venue in one of its most historic buildings. Originally built in 1908, it has undergone a full renovation to be restored to its original grandeur while adding modern conveniences and beautiful design. FINALISTS: Pinspiration Gainesville The Wooly FAVORITE LOCAL FARMERS MARKET

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

5213 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32608 Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food and handmade gifts, then continue on for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shops and restaurants. FINALISTS: Alachua 441 Farmers Market Newberry Farmers Market FAVORITE LOCAL GOLF COURSE

TREE CARE SERVICES

STUMP GRINDING DEBRIS REMOVAL SMALL LOT CLEAN-UP CRANE WORK AND MORE!

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IRONWOOD GOLF COURSE

2100 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32609 Named by Golf Digest as one of the best places to play, Ironwood Golf Course has an outstanding layout sculptured around century-old pines and shimmering lakes. The contoured fairways and strategically placed bunkers offer every level of golfer a tremendous opportunity to test your skills. FINALISTS: Turkey Creek Golf Course Hawkstone Country Club

FAVORITE LOCAL LIMO/BUS SERVICE

A CANDIE’S COACHWORKS, INC.

6916 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 A Candies Coachworks is a family-owned service that has been in the transportation business for over 30 years and they pride themselves on using the fabulous Prevost H-Series Deluxe motor coaches as well as their excellent safety rating due to their staff and training programs. FAVORITE LOCAL LIVE MUSIC VENUE

HEARTWOOD SOUNDSTAGE

619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 Gainesville’s own Heartwood Soundstage is a state-of-the-art recording studio, video production facility and intimate performance venue built by musicians for music lovers and music makers. FINALISTS: High Dive One Love Café FAVORITE LOCAL MUSEUM

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

3215 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 From permanent displays like Florida Fossils or Land and Northwest Florida to rotating exhibits like Science Up Close: Fantastic Fossils and Our Changing Climate: Past and Present, the Florida Museum of Natural History has been providing educational experiences to guests since 1939 when certain collections – in a previous locale – opened to the public. FINALISTS: Harn Museum of Art Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

FAVORITE LOCAL MUSICIAN

NED STEWART

Facebook.com/dimlightsband Ned Stewart is the singer and lead guitarist for the three-piece band Dim Lights – a Gainesville favorite that specializes in musical genres like Americana, Country and Bluegrass. FINALISTS: Ralph Hilliard Chelsea Oxendine FAVORITE LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD

CAPRI

4412 NW 36th Drive, Gainesville, FL 32605 Capri is a resort-style pool neighborhood in northwest Gainesville. Homes in this walkable suburban neighborhood were built between 1996 and 2003 and are within a 30-minute drive or less to everything in Gainesville. FINALISTS: Haile Plantation Tioga

FAVORITE LOCAL NON-PROFIT

GRACE MARKETPLACE

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO GO SWIMMING

GINNIE SPRINGS

3055 NE 28th Drive, Gainesville, FL 32609 GRACE is a one-stop homeless resource center serving Gainesville and Alachua County providing helpful and effective services for anyone experiencing or at risk of homelessness. By taking care of basic necessities day to day, GRACE empowers individuals to reclaim control over their lives and recover from unfortunate circumstances. FINALISTS: St. Francis House Junior League of Gainesville

7300 NE Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643 Take a dip and explore the wonders of Ginnie Springs’s seven springs. Swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear 72-degree water is fun year round, but when the Santa Fe River clears, snorkeling in the river may reward you with glimpses of large gar, bass, mullet, catfish, turtles and many other critters. FINALISTS: Ichetucknee Springs Hart Springs Park

FAVORITE LOCAL PAINT & SIP ART STUDIO

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY PARTY

CORKS & COLORS STUDIO

3415 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 Corks & Colors is an independent art studio giving Gainesville a place to create since 2010 and is a great place for anybody to embrace their artistic side – no matter what age or skill level. Create on your own or come to a class. FINALISTS: Pinspiration Gainesville Painting with a Pit

O2B KIDS SUPERCENTER

7383 SW 17th Road, Gainesville, FL 32607 Just bring the cake, they’ll do the rest! Choose from four themed 90-minute parties complete with party favors, engaging activities and a birthday t-shirt for your party child. They provide all the decorations, place settings and even the invitations. FINALISTS: Pinspiration Splitz of Gainesville

Thank you for your voting for us and your continued support! Alachua Flowers & Tuxedo Rentals

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14520 Main Street, Alachua JULY/AUG 2022

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FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH

DEPOT PARK

874 SE 4 St., Gainesville, FL 32601 Splashing in the Blue Grotto or strolling along the promenade; enjoying a picnic in the pavilion or visiting the Cade Museum; grabbing a snack at Pop-A-Top General Store or a beverage at Box Car Wine & Beer Garden – whatever it is, there’s always an adventure at Depot Park. FINALISTS: Celebration Pointe High Springs Brewing Company

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS

RELAX SALT ROOMS

4936 NW 39th Ave. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32606 Historic records indicate that humans have long been using natural salt caves for the healing and rejuvenating qualities they possess. The healing atmosphere at Relax Salt Rooms accompanied by soothing music is a natural way to enhance overall physical and mental well-being. FINALISTS: Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO TAKE YOUR KIDS

DEPOT PARK

874 SE 4 St., Gainesville, FL 32601 Climb, run, slide, spin and experience an exciting custom play area designed to inspire and encourage creativity or splash in the blue grotto inspired by the underwater caverns in Central Florida complete with waterfalls, ground jets, water cannons and hidden fossils. FINALISTS: Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo Florida Museum of Natural History

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FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO TAKE YOUR PARENTS

RELAX SALT ROOMS

4936 NW 39th Ave. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32606 Located in Gainesville, Relax Salt Rooms’ goal is to help with breathing and skin issues using salt therapy. Salt rooms provide natural therapeutic pulverized salt where occupants are able to passively breathe it in. FINALISTS: Pinspiration Gainesville Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History Kanapaha Botanical Gardens FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO WORSHIP

CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH

1603 SW 122nd St., Gainesville, FL 32607 Christ Community Church was founded in 1997 here in gator country. What began as a small group meeting in rented spaces throughout a growing city grew into a vibrant congregation located in west Gainesville. FINALISTS: The Rock of Gainesville Canvas Church Queen of Peace Catholic Community FAVORITE LOCAL SPORTS VENUE

BEN HILL GRIFFIN STADIUM

157 Gale Lemerand Dr. Gainesville, FL 32611 Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, or “The Swamp” as it’s affectionately known, was originally built in 1930 and has since expanded its capacity to now seat up to 88,548 fans, which makes it the largest football stadium in the state of Florida. FINALISTS: Alfred A. McKethan Stadium (UF Baseball Field) O’Connell Center

FAVORITE LOCAL WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

1908 GRAND

215 N Main St., Gainesville, FL Built in 1908, this newly restored and renovated historic gem offers the perfect mix of character and charm combined with modern elegance and luxury. From the breathtaking chandeliers in every room of the building to the luxurious bridal suite, a backlit onyx bar in the upstairs ballroom, a large outdoor patio, state of the art house sound and lighting, and every spectacular detail in between, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to host your big day here. FINALISTS: Sweetwater Branch Inn Lodging and Events Langan Acres LLC

EATS FAVORITE “BEST-KEPT SECRET” RESTAURANT

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 Located in Haile Plantation, That Bar and Table’s menu includes classic American dishes, their famous burgers, brunch and changing specials. Grab a bite in their casual, family-friendly dining area; a cold drink at the bar and pub area or bring the pup along for a meal on the dogfriendly patio. FINALISTS: The Paper Bag Fehrenbacher’s Artisan Sausage FAVORITE LOCAL AMERICAN FOOD

SPURRIER’S GRIDIRON GRILLE

4860 Steve Spurrier Way, Gainesville, FL 32608 Spurrier’s partners with local companies to bring the best of the best ingredients and products within their walls. From meat and produce to cheese and honey, they have current partnerships with Opus Coffee, First Magnitude Brewery, Wainwright Dairy, Hawthorne Creek Creamery, Traders Hill Farms and many others. FINALISTS: The Top Local Provisions

FAVORITE LOCAL BAKERY

FAVORITE LOCAL BURGER

FAVORITE LOCAL BBQ

UPPERCRUST PRODUCTIONS

4118 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 Uppercrust is an artisan bakery that makes all its products from scratch and presents them the day they are baked. Uppercrust also showcases specialty artisan products. These foods, stationery, gift ideas and wines are specially curated by the Uppercrust team to complement their homemade offerings. FINALISTS: The Bakery Mill Vine Sourdough Bakery FAVORITE LOCAL BAR FOOD

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 Truffle cheese fries, Cajun boiled peanuts, knockout shrimp and Asian crispy fried ribs offer a unique twist to bar food. If you’re interested in more of the classics, That Bar and Table also serves up chili cheese fries, fried mozzarella, fried pickle chips and nachos. FINALISTS: Crafty Bastards Restaurant Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville

TOP HOG BBQ

14128 W Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669 Top Hog takes the time to make their recipes with love and their BBQ is made in small batches to make sure that everything ordered is fresh and up to customers’ high standards. They keep their smoker running all day – and night – to make sure they’re serving the freshest meats no matter what time you come in: lunch or dinner. FINALISTS: David’s BBQ & Catering Sonny’s BBQ FAVORITE LOCAL BRUNCH/ BREAKFAST

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 Powdered sugar-dusted beignets served with a side of raspberry coulis; loaded home fry bowls; jumbo buttermilk biscuits and chorizo and egg two-bite tacos, you can’t go wrong with a brunch stop at That Bar and Table. Kick up your breakfast game with bottomless mimosas or an iced Irish coffee. FINALISTS: 43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House Maple Street Biscuit Company

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 Get exactly what you’re craving with That Bar and Table’s build-your-own burgers. Choose from the base of Angus beef, roasted veggie, the impossible burger or chicken sandwich and pile on the toppings with everything from the classic lettuce, tomato and pickles, to more niche toppings like queso fresco, jalapeno aioli or an over-easy egg. FINALISTS: Crafty Bastards Restaurant Mac’s Drive Thru FAVORITE LOCAL CATERER

TOSH EVENT GROUP, LLC

12 W University Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601 Homemade menus. So many choices. So much to eat. It`s all good. From breakfast to dinner; Horsd`ouevres to make-your-own station; vegan to gluten-free; Tosh Event Group has the handcrafted food & drink to feed your meeting, wow your guest and make your event sparkle. They also offer daily catering in the Gainesville and Ocala areas to feed your team every day. FINALISTS: Dos Mamas Catering Everyday Amore

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FAVORITE LOCAL CHEF

SARAH WOLF (THAT BAR AND TABLE)

Celebrating years in the Gainesville area! Specializing in

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 The core of what makes That Bar and Table a local favorite is the incredible, mouthwatering food prepared by the restaurant’s dedicated chefs like Sarah Wolf, who was named Our Town readers’ favorite local chef. FINALISTS: Briton Dumas (Embers Wood Grill) TJ Kantor FAVORITE LOCAL CHICKEN WINGS

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 At That Bar and Table, guests can choose a base of 8, 12, or 16 wings to toss in one of 14 different sauces like sriracha-cilantro-lime-garlic, dijon molasses, Asian barbeque, butter garlic parmesan or savory ranch dry rub. FINALISTS: Copper Monkey West Gator’s Dockside Gainesville FAVORITE LOCAL CHINESE FOOD

MR. HAN’S RESTAURANT

6944 NW 10th Place, Gainesville, FL 32605 From classic Chinese favorites like steamed dumplings, egg rolls and wontons, to more unique menu items like South African lobster tail, weeping willow chicken and phoenix and dragon soup, Mr. Han’s Restaurant is a Gainesville favorite and a foodie’s best-kept secret. FINALISTS: Yummy House Bamboos

5753 SW 75TH S

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FAVORITE LOCAL CHOCOLATE/ CANDY STORE

THORNEBROOK CHOCOLATES

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 21, Gainesville, FL 32606 Nestled in the Thornebrook Village Shopping Center, locally owned and operated Thornebrook Chocolates has been providing unique gifts and assorted hand-dipped confections since 1985. With milk, dark and white-chocolate coatings accompanied by a variety of fillings, Thornebrook has something for every chocolate enthusiast. FINALISTS: Kilwins Sugar Refined FAVORITE LOCAL COFFEE/ COFFEEHOUSE

CYM COFFEE CO

5404 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 The CYM Coffee Co. serves some of the best coffee, tea, and pastries around. A relaxed, stirring place where Gainesvillians come to get in a “cymplified” state of mind. FINALISTS: My Happy Place on Main Patticakes at Tioga FAVORITE LOCAL DELICATESSEN

THE PAPER BAG

5750 SW 75th Court, Suite 20, Gainesville FL 32608 Casual shouldn’t mean stale food options. Great taste is the name of the game, and The Paper Bag is committed to stepping up to the plate and are dedicated to providing fresh options for their customers. Relax on the sunny patio or at their bar-style seating; enjoy your favorite beer and wine along with free wifi. FINALISTS: Dave’s New York Deli Fehrenbacher’s Artisan Sausage

FAVORITE LOCAL DOUGHNUT

HALO POTATO DONUTS (TOWER FOOD TRUCK)

7107 NW 4th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32607 Halo Potato Donuts is an independently owned and operated donut company specializing in potato donuts, which are a cross between a yeast and cake donut – light like yeast, yet dense like cake. Cinnamon sugar, maple glaze, Florida buckeye, lemon blueberry and cinnamon roll – you can’t go wrong with any flavor. FINALISTS: Donut Connection Joyfully Baked FAVORITE LOCAL FAMILY RESTAURANT

MR. & MRS. CRAB

3246 SW 35th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32608 Mr. & Mrs. Crab’s hand-held seafood integrates American country taste with traditional Szechuan spices to create a unique flavor. What makes Mr. & Mrs. Crab even more unique is the ability to create your very own customized seafood boil. FINALISTS: That Bar and Table Crafty Bastards Restaurant

FAVORITE LOCAL FINE DINING

EMBERS WOOD GRILL

3545 SW 34th St. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32608 Embers Wood Grill provides a fine dining experience through their extensive menu featuring chef specialties, USDA prime beef entrees, succulent seafood, an assortment of desserts like lemon layer cake, banana foster cheesecake and flaming crème brûlée as well as a lengthy list of wines and cocktails. FINALISTS: Prime & Pearl Mark’s Prime Steakhouse FAVORITE LOCAL FIRST DATE SPOT

CINTRÓN - A FLORIBBEAN RESTAURANT

2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 With an assortment of savory sandwiches; unique appetizers like Floribbean eggrolls or shrimp and passion fruit ceviche; main dishes like mango-mustard glazed salmon or mojo roasted chicken and signature cocktails like the key lime pie martini or orange blossom special, Cintrón is the ideal first-date spot. FINALISTS: Alpin Bistro Embers Wood Grill

FAVORITE LOCAL FOOD TRUCK

VEGAN GATOR FOOD TRUCK

Facebook.com/VeganGatorFoodTruck Vegan Gator is a plant-based concept with a passion for delicious vegan food. They feature vegan artisanal burgers and tasty smothered fries made from locally sourced ingredients and house-made sauces. FINALISTS: Cilantro Tacos Filipino Flavors FAVORITE LOCAL HANGOVER FOOD

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32608 From the chicken biscuit sandwich, which features fried buttermilk chicken on a fresh buttermilk biscuit with honey butter and home fries, to the breakfast burger served on a buttermilk biscuit and topped with a sunny-side up egg, wrapping up with the loaded home fry bowl packed with chorizo, cheddar, queso fresco and eggs over cheddar cheese grits, That Bar and Table’s weekend brunch specials are the pinnacle of hangover food. FINALISTS: Impulse Gainesville Crafty Bastards Restaurant

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703 North Main Street, Suite A • Gainesville, FL 32601 • Offices in Gainesville, Ocala and Lake City

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Relax.Refresh. Breathe Deeply

FAVORITE LOCAL HIBACHI/JAPANESE STEAK

YAMATO JAPANESE RESTAURANT

526 NW 60th St., Gainesville, FL 32607 Pork dumplings, agedashi tofu and sushi rolls – Yamato has it all. From assorted platters, traditional Japanese cuisine, teppan yaki and more, Yamato is Gainesville’s favorite Japanese steakhouse and hibachi restaurant. FINALISTS: Samurai Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Rock N’ Roll Sushi Jonesville FAVORITE LOCAL ITALIAN FOOD

FAVORITE LOCAL PIZZA

Piesanostogo.com Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a dinner destination to meet up with friends & family, Piesanos is your place. Celebrate life’s most memorable moments with delicious dishes whether in their dining room or yours. FINALISTS: O Sole Mio Cucina Italiana Pomodoro Café

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LAS MARGARITA’S

4405 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 Don’t let the name fool you, Las Margaritas isn’t just a venue for sipping tasty cocktails – they offer the best Mexican food in town. Whether you’re craving tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, fajitas or another flavorful favorite, you’ll find the best authentic Mexican food at Las Margaritas. FINALISTS: Nopal by Cintrón Linda Vista

PIESANOS STONE FIRED PIZZA

DRY SALT THERAPY

FAVORITE LOCAL MEXICAN FOOD

FAVORITE LOCAL MEDITERRANEAN FOOD

GYRO PLUS

1011 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 From beef, Greek or veggie gyro sandwiches to baba ghanouge, falafel and tabbouleh, all of which take a backseat to mouthwatering cashew, pistachio, walnut or almond baklava, Gyro Plus is a favorite hangout for unforgettable Mediterranean food. FINALISTS: Zoës Kitchen Taziki’s Mediterranean Café

PIESANOS STONE FIRED PIZZA

5757 SW 75th St., Suite 101, Gainesville, FL 32608 The only thing better than pie is pizza pie and Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza knows how to make the best with freshly made dough baked golden brown and loaded with delicious toppings, you can’t stop at just one slice and with three locations around Gainesville, you don’t have to. FINALISTS: Satchel’s Pizza Blue Highway a Pizzeria FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT OVERALL

MR. & MRS. CRAB

3246 SW 35th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32608 Mr. and Mrs. Crab offers a diverse range of juicy seafood, including shrimp, oysters, blue crab, snow crab, crawfish, clams, mussels, Dungeness crab, and lobster! FINALISTS: That Bar and Table Crafty Bastards Restaurant

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT PATIO

CINTRÓN - A FLORIBBEAN RESTAURANT

2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 What better way to enjoy the Floribbean vibes than enjoying a drink and a meal outside. Cintrón has a spacious patio space featuring several umbrella-canopied tables. FINALISTS: One Love Café Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille

FAVORITE LOCAL RIBS

ADAMS RIB CO.

FAVORITE LOCAL STEAKHOUSE

EMBERS OF FLORIDA

6500 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 8181 NW 39th Ave. Suite 100, Gainesville, FL 32606 Bangkok Square is a family-owned restaurant specializing in flavorful and traditional Thai food including a rainbow of curries, noodles and fried rice as well as unique desserts like sticky rice with Thai custard, lychee and Thai donuts. FINALISTS: Tup Tim Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar Eim Thai

FAVORITE LOCAL SUSHI

FAVORITE LOCAL VEGETARIAN/ VEGAN FOOD

FUJI SUSHI

14218 W Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669 Sushi’s in their name so it’s no surprise that Fuji Sushi is an expert at making the best in town. From classic offerings like tuna and California rolls to more specialized concoctions like the Mexican roll and bagel roll, Fuji Sushi can curb any sushi craving. FINALISTS: Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Ichiban Sushi

FAVORITE LOCAL SEAFOOD

FAVORITE LOCAL TACOS

3246 SW 35th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32608 Customize your seafood experience at Mr. & Mrs. Crab and enjoy seafood boils your way. After cooking your food to perfection, the chefs place your food and choice of seasoning in a specially-designed seafood boil bag, which helps trap the heat and amazing flavor. FINALISTS: Northwest Grille Wahoo Seafood Grill

BANGKOK SQUARE

3545 SW 34th St. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32608 Named as one of the Top 10 Steakhouses in Florida by Bestthingsfl.com, Embers Wood Grill offers a fine-dining experience like no other. Grilled over a hickory, pecan and cherry wood grill and hand cut and fully trimmed in-house, Embers’ USDA prime beef is the star of the menu. FINALISTS: Mark’s Prime Steakhouse Prime & Pearl

2109 NW 13th St., Gainesville, FL 32609 With “ribs” in the center of their name, Adam’s Rib Co. knows how to make the best. Slow smoked, slathered in sweet sauce and packed with flavor from pecan, black jack and hickory-infused woods, Adam’s Rib Co. has the best southern-style barbeque ribs in Gainesville. FINALISTS: Top Hog BBQ 4 Rivers Smokehouse

MR. & MRS. CRAB

FAVORITE LOCAL THAI FOOD

CILANTRO TACOS

15551 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua, FL Cilantro Tacos was founded through a passion for great food and serving others. A family-owned business, they think of their patrons, as familia, and pride themselves in the quality, freshness, & vibrant flavors of their food as every meal is prepared fresh and made to order. FINALISTS: Nopal by Cintrón Sublime Tacos

VEGAN GATOR FOOD TRUCK

Facebook.com/VeganGatorFoodTruck From veggie burgers like the vegan cowboy with braised barbeque jackfruit and crispy onion straws or the “siikedelic mushroom” topped with sautéed mushrooms, mushroom gravy and vegan white cheese sauce to the side of loaded fries like white truffle and rosemary or swamp fries with Cajun seasoning, buffalo and cheese sauce, Vegan Gator Food Truck can satisfy your meatless cravings. FINALISTS: The Top Nopal by Cintrón FAVORITE LOCAL WINE SELECTION AT A RESTAURANT

EMBERS OF FLORIDA

3545 SW 34th St. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32608 In addition to having two certified wine experts on staff, Embers has over 420 wine selections in stock, 30 different wines by the glass and an extensive bar list featuring ports and sherries. So whether you’re a wine newbie or an aficionado, Embers has the best selection to choose from. FINALISTS: Prime & Pearl Tipple’s Brews & Wine

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FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN ALACHUA

EL TORO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

15202 NW 147th Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua, FL 32615 El Toro is a family-style restaurant with the best tasting Mexican food in Alachua. Their food is prepared fresh to order and they pride themselves on their award-winning salsa, which has been a regional favorite of North Florida and University of Florida Gator fans for years. FINALISTS: Conestogas Restaurant Mi Apá Latin Café of Alachua FAVO R I T E R E S TA U R A N T GAINESVILLE

MR. & MRS. CRAB

3246 SW 35th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32608 Seafood lovers rejoice, Butler Town Center’s Mr. & Mrs. Crab – renowned for their createyour-own seafood boils – were named by Our Town readers as their favorite restaurant in Gainesville overall. Cajun, garlic butter or lemon pepper, what are you seasoning your seafood boil with? FINALISTS: That Bar and Table Crafty Bastards Restaurant FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN HIGH SPRINGS

GREAT OUTDOORS RESTAURANT

65 N Main St., High Springs, FL 32643 Winner of Trip Advisor’s Award of Excellence in 2018 and named favorite restaurant in High Springs by Our Town readers for the second year, The Great Outdoors Restaurant attracts customers with live music, an outdoor patio, dining in the upstairs opera house and delicious food. FINALISTS: Grady House Bed & Breakfast Bev’s Better Burgers

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FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN NEWBERRY

ROCK N’ ROLL SUSHI JONESVILLE

13005 SW 1 Road Suite 137, Newberry, FL 32669 Rock N’ Roll Sushi is the original American-style sushi restaurant founded on great food and rock ‘n’ roll music. Boasting concepts and flavors that are big, bold, and loud, they’re the only place to experience the rock you love and the rolls you love with the ones you love. FINALISTS: Stone House Neighborhood Grill Dave’s New York Deli

HEALTH & BEAUTY FAVORITE LASER HAIR REMOVAL CENTER

ACCENT AESTHETICS

4340 W Newberry Road Suite 102, Gainesville, FL 32607 Accent Aesthetics specializes in minimally invasive and non-invasive medical aesthetic procedures like facial rejuvenation treatments and laser hair removal and offers medical-grade skin-care products. Using state-of-the-art techniques, Accent Aesthetics tailors every client’s needs and lifestyle with a treatment plan unique to them. FINALISTS: Paradise Skin & Body Ideal Image Gainesville FAVORITE LOCAL ACUPUNCTURIST

ELIZABETH NOBLES (FLOATING LOTUS THERAPEUTIC SPA AND HEALTH CENTER)

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 3A, Gainesville, FL 32606 At the Floating Lotus Spa, they seek to help you achieve a healthier state of body, mind and spirit. The atmosphere they create, the natural products used and the therapists devoted to your service combine to give you a one-of-a-kind experience found only at the Floating Lotus Spa. FINALISTS: Jerrod Fletcher (North Florida Acupuncture) Gainesville Wellness and Performance

FAVORITE LOCAL AESTHETIC CENTER

ACCENT AESTHETICS

4340 W Newberry Road Suite 102, Gainesville, FL 32607 Accent Aesthetics is dedicated entirely to cosmetic procedures. Their board-certified surgeons and a team of aesthetic experts provide an exceptional level of care during your entire experience and specialize in nonsurgical services such as chemical peels, dermal fillers, fibroblast plasma skin tightening, laser hair removal, skin resurfacing and more. FINALISTS: Glow Bar GNV Pure Aesthetics FAVORITE LOCAL AESTHETICIAN

TAYLOR RODGERS

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 3A, Gainesville, FL 32606 The Floating Lotus Spa, Gainesville’s unique escape from the stresses of day-to-day life, is located in Florida’s beautiful Thornebrook Village. Indulge yourself in therapies focused on anti-aging treatments & complete wellness at a cellular level. FINALISTS: Christine Dautel (Accent Aesthetics) Floating Lotus Spa FAVORITE LOCAL AUDIOLOGIST

STEVEN PETRAKIS (AUD)

4340 Newberry Road Suite 301, Gainesville, FL 32607 Steven Petrakis, AuD earned his Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of Florida in 2007. His clinical expertise includes diagnostics and amplification, serving musicians’ hearing needs and promoting the installation of hearing loop systems. He is also certified in Tinnitus Retraining Therapy. FINALISTS: Dr. Jagadish Swamy (Clearsound Audiology) Dr. Ryan Baker

FAVORITE LOCAL BARBER

JONESVILLE BARBER SHOP

14029 W Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669 Traditional barbershop with a friendly atmosphere located in Newberry. Jonesville Barber Shop offers both traditional and modern haircuts for men, women and children. FINALISTS: Gents & Co Sliced Barber Shop FAVORITE LOCAL BODY PIERCING SHOP

ANATOMIC BODY ARTS

12 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 Opened in October 2016, Anatomic Body Piercing was the first, and still, the only body piercing boutique in north central Florida and is the only studio in the region with an all-female staff as well as the only one to carry exclusively quality jewelry made by the finest manufacturers in the world. FINALISTS: Bodytech Tattooing & Piercing Pizzazz Piercing and Tattoo

FAVORITE LOCAL CBD STORE

FAVORITE LOCAL DENTIST OFFICE

HALO HEALTH SERVICES

8611 SW 92nd Lane, Gainesville, FL 32608 Halo Health Services provides nutrition, physical fitness and mental wellness guidance to address health and wellness outcomes from all of the many aspects of influence. FAVORITES: Sacred Leaf Shops Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa and Health Center FAVORITE LOCAL CHIROPRACTOR

AWAKEN CHIROPRACTIC

5200 NW 43rd St. Suite 507, Gainesville, FL 32606 Awaken Chiropractic is focused on improving the health and wellness of the entire community, which is why their mission is to provide their patients with chiropractic care and the tools needed to improve overall health and wellness for a lifetime. FINALISTS: Direct Care Chiropractic Results Chiropractic

EXCEPTIONAL DENTISTRY & SEDATION CENTER

932 NW 56th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32605 Often referred to as the Ritz Carlton of Dentistry, Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center has a Ritz Carlton-trained team ready to exceed even the highest patient expectations and are able to offer advanced dental services in one convenient location. FINALISTS: Comprehensive Dental Care Dr. Bertram J. Hughes, DMD FAVORITE LOCAL DERMATOLOGIST

CHRISTINA MITCHELL, MD

13575 NW 1st Lane, Suite 10, Newberry, FL 32669 Christina Mitchell, MD, is an accomplished dermatologist with a passion for helping her patients feel great in their own skin. Through her work at Dermatology Specialists of Gainesville in Newberry, Dr. Mitchell is honored to play a role in creating positive change in the lives of those in her care. FINALISTS: Dr. Robert Skidmore (FL Cancer & Dermatology) Dr. Miranda Whitmer (Gainesville Dermatology, A Forefront Dermatology Practice)

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awakenmyhealth.com Hunter’s Crossing Shopping Center 5200 NW 43rd St #507, Gainesville

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FAVORITE LOCAL DOCTOR

DR. ALTHEA TYNDALLSMITH, MD

212 NW 135th Way Suite 20, Newberry, FL 32669 Dr. Tyndall-Smith, who moved to Gainesville in 2013 from York, Pennsylvania, started her career in medicine at York Hospital, one of the oldest community family medicine residency programs in the country. She co-founded Gainesville DPC Physicians in order to spend quality time with her patients and their families. FINALISTS: Dr. Jennifer McConnell Dr. Della Tuten

FAVORITE LOCAL EYE LASHES SALON

BEAUTY LOUNGE & CO

14128 W Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669 At Hedges Eye Care, their team is dedicated to providing the highest quality eye care to you and your family. Their priority is for their patients to feel welcomed, relaxed, and cared for in a comfortable environment while they strive to help you achieve your best vision and ocular health so that you can live better with better vision. FINALISTS: Quinn Eye Center Vitreo Retinal Associates

LIV ATHLETIC

1405 NW 6th St. Suite 110, Gainesville, FL 32601 Co-founded in 2016 by microblading artist Nikki Naylor, Beauty Lounge & Co prides itself in using the highest quality tools and products in the industry as well as employing highly-educated artists like Naylor and lash extension and waxing specialist Miranda Bohr. FINALISTS: Lucid Lash Studio The Brow Queen & Co

1126 NW 2nd St. Suite A Gainesville, FL 32601 LIV Athletic will help you take the guesswork out of staying in shape so you can achieve your fitness goals. With their coaching program, you will confidently exercise, meal plan, and stay committed to your goals, without spending a fortune on a personal trainer. FINALISTS: AXIS Training Studio Gainesville Health & Fitness – Tioga Center

FAVORITE LOCAL EYEBROW SALON

FAVORITE LOCAL GYM

FAVORITE LOCAL EYE CLINIC

HEDGES EYE CARE

FAVORITE LOCAL GROUP FITNESS

SALON ZIBA (ZIBA DE BEAUTE)

2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 Ziba Ahmadi has been perfecting the art of eyebrow threading for over 20 years and has been hailed as the best in Gainesville by her clientele and Our Town readers. Her appointment-only services include threading for the face, arms and legs. FINALISTS: Beauty Lounge & Co. The Brow Queen & Co.

4620 NW 39th Ave. Suite B, Gainesville, FL 32606 At AXIS – Gainesville’s premier personal training studio specializing in corrective exercise – they believe that movement is medicine, and just like a prescription, the wrong one may make a person worse than when they started! Each client is put through a complete structural evaluation, flexibility test and fitness assessment before any exercise is prescribed. FINALISTS: LIV Athletic Gainesville Health & Fitness

CELEBRATING

15 YEARS

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AXIS TRAINING STUDIO

(352) 244-0840

FAVORITE LOCAL HAIR SALON

CONFIDENCE HAIR SALON

Christyhenneman.glossgenius.com Confidence Hair Salon is an upscale studio salon. Founder Christy Henneman dreamed of a salon where clients could have confidence in their salon, stylist and hair care. FINALISTS: Mirror Mirror Salon Studio, LLC Studio B Hair Salon FAVORITE LOCAL HEALTH FOOD STORE

SUNFLOWER HEALTH FOODS

3424 W University Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 Locally owned and operated since 1970, Sunflower Health Foods and its knowledgeable staff are there to help you. Whether it’s vitamins and minerals, herbal supplements, sports nutrition or just helping to find what you need, they’re ready to help. FINALISTS: Ward’s Supermarket Earth Origins Market

FAVORITE LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER (BUSINESS)

CELEBRATE PRIMARY CARE, GAINESVILLE

919 NW 57th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 Celebrate Primary Care is a Direct Primary Care practice, which means you get more time with your provider. They charge a low monthly fee with unlimited access to care, no copays and discounts on labs, generic medications and radiology. FINALISTS: Gainesville Direct Primary Care Physicians, LLC Accent Physician Specialists FAVORITE LOCAL HOSPITAL

UF HEALTH SHANDS HOSPITAL

1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 At UF Health Shands, nearly 900 expert UF College of Medicine and community physicians and more than 8,000 skilled nursing and support staff provide comprehensive high-quality patient care from primary care and family medicine to subspecialty tertiary and quaternary services for patients with highly complex medical conditions. FINALISTS: HCA Florida North Florida Hospital Shands Children’s Hospital

FAVORITE LOCAL IN-HOME HEALTHCARE

OVATION HOME CARE

214 W University Ave. Suite A1, Gainesville, FL 32601 As a locally owned and operated Gainesville home care agency, Ovation Home Care addresses the issues aging seniors face. Their approach to senior care is inspired by the perspective of an experienced occupational therapist and includes pastoral care in addition to the personal care traditionally offered by private duty home care companies. FINALISTS: Touching Hearts at Home Home by Choice FAVORITE LOCAL LASIK SURGERY CLINIC

EYE ASSOCIATES OF GAINESVILLE

2521 NW 41st St., Gainesville, FL 32606 Eye Associates of Gainesville is committed to delivering the highest quality comprehensive eye care for each of their patients, which will minimize your time spent in the office for your visit.

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FAVORITE LOCAL MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO

STAR MARTIAL ARTS

500 NW 60th St., Gainesville, FL 32607 Star Martial Arts is focused on more than teaching students the skills and techniques they need to progress through karate levels. Their team is there to empower and support students on their journey to unlock their full potential. Through martial arts, they help students build character, leadership skills, and integrity. FINALISTS: Pro Taekwondo School Okito America

FAVORITE LOCAL NAIL SALON

FAVORITE LOCAL ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

ENSO: A HEALTHIER NAIL BOUTIQUE

13005 SW 1 Road, Suite 133, Newberry, FL, 32669 Enso’s mission involves setting a higher standard for the local beauty industry as they strive to create a worry-free ambiance by staffing knowledgeable trained professionals and providing healthier choices for beauty services by using mostly organic and vegan-friendly products. FINALISTS: Grand Nails Hang Ten Nail Design FAVORITE LOCAL ORTHODONTIST

FAVORITE LOCAL MASSAGE THERAPIST

ALEXANDRA DIAZ (RELAX SALT ROOMS)

4936 NW 39th Ave. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32606 Relax Salt Rooms’ treatment room features an intimate salt wall designed to create the perfect setting for massage. Alexandra Diaz, a licensed massage therapist and holistic wellness practitioner, works with you to make sure your massage is tailored to your needs. FINALISTS: Jude Parfait Cody Yelton

PAPPAS & TAPLEY ORTHODONTICS

DR. HARI PARVATANENI (UF HEALTH ORTHOPAEDICS)

3450 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32607 Dr. Hari Parvataneni grew up in Jamaica and joined UF in 2011 and his clinical practice focuses on joint replacement and reconstruction. He has extensive experience and interest in education, mentorship, quality of care innovations, clinical research, enhanced recovery and improved outcomes after surgery and value-based care. FINALISTS: Dr. Tristan Altbuch (The Orthopedic Center) Dr. Arthur Sharkey, MD (The Orthopedic Institute) FAVORITE LOCAL PEDIATRICIAN

320 NW 76th Dr. Gainesville, FL 32607 At Pappas & Tapley Orthodontics, their goal is to care for all their patients like family and provide the best orthodontic treatment possible. They are dedicated, not only to creating beautiful and healthy smiles but to building honest and trusting relationships with their patients and the community. FINALISTS: Montini Orthodontics Dr. Dawn Martin (Jacobson & Martin Orthodontics)

Taking care of you like

DR. KATHERYN SARANTOS (ALLIANCE PEDIATRICS)

4627 NW 53rd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32653 Dr. Katheryn Sarantos has always had a strong passion for helping others. Coupled with her affinity for medicine, she’s been serving the Gainesville community for almost 20 years. She began her career as a medical student at the University of Florida, where she also completed her residency, focusing on Pediatrics. FINALISTS: Dr. Ron Emerick (Little Pine Pediatrics) Molly Posa, MD (UF Health Pediatrics – Tioga)

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FAVORITE LOCAL PERSONAL TRAINER

AKELA COLLINS (GAINESVILLE HEALTH & FITNESS)

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE FOR SKIN CARE

ACCENT AESTHETICS

Ghfc.com Akela Collins is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and NASM Certified Behavioral Change Specialist who wants to show her clients that they truly can achieve anything they set their mind to, wanting them to enjoy the journey and to look back on all they have accomplished with pride. FINALISTS: Jake Thompson (AXIS Training Studio) Kelvin Jones (Zen Fitness)

4340 W Newberry Road, Suite 102, Gainesville, FL 32607 At Accent Aesthetics, they believe looking your best helps you feel your best. So they share their passion and knowledge to help you feel refreshed, inspired and beautiful – ready to start each day with a fabulous smile and sense of self that radiates confidence. FINALISTS: Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa and Health Center Glow Bar

FAVORITE LOCAL PHARMACY

FAVORITE LOCAL RUNNING EVENT

WESTLAB PHARMACY

4410 Newberry Road, Suite A5, Gainesville, FL 32607 With over 100 years of collective experience, Westlab Pharmacy’s team of skilled pharmacists work with prescribing professionals and patients to design customized medications that meet the dosage requirements of the physician and are in a form comfortable and convenient for the patient to use. FINALISTS: Celebrate Primary Care Publix Super Market at Alachua Market Place FAVORITE LOCAL PHYSICAL THERAPIST

CHRISTINA PETTIE (UF HEALTH REHAB CENTER MAGNOLIA PARKE)

4740 NW 39th Place, Suite D, Gainesville, FL 32606 Christina Pettie is skilled in the spine, vestibular rehabilitation, manual therapy, wheelchair evaluations, aquatic therapy, healthcare management and healthcare. A physical therapist with UF Health Rehab Center Magnolia Parke, Pettie also has an MHA focused in Health Administration from the University of Florida. FINALISTS: Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers Gainesville Physical Therapy and Wellness, LLC

HOGTOWN 5K BEER RUN

Climbforcancerfoundation.org Adult runners enjoy delicious craft beer from Swamp Head Brewery at the finish line along with food, root beer for the kids, music and entertainment. There’s something for everyone. Proceeds from the Hogtown 5K Beer Run benefit the Climb for Cancer Foundation, which supports cancer patients and their families at UF Health. FINALISTS: 5 Points of Life Newnan’s Lake FAVORITE LOCAL SPA

FLOATING LOTUS THERAPEUTIC SPA AND HEALTH CENTER

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 3A, Gainesville, FL 32606 Welcome to the Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa and Health Center, Gainesville’s unique escape from the stresses of everyday life. Indulge yourself in therapies focused on anti-aging treatments and complete wellness. FINALISTS: Relax Salt Rooms Glow Bar GNV

FAVORITE LOCAL TANNING SALON

LAE BEAUTY BAR

618 NW 60th St. Suite I, Gainesville, FL 32607 LAE Beauty’s standard is to provide a fresh, healthy and smart approach for customers to care for their bodies and skin. Since 2008, LAE Beauty has provided services in eyelash extensions, microblading, brows, facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, spray tanning - a customer favorite - waxing, tanning and red light therapy. FINALISTS: South Beach Tanning Company FAVORITE LOCAL TATTOO SHOP

BODYTECH TATTOOING & PIERCING

806 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601 Bodytech Tattooing and Piercing Inc. was established in 1998 by Wayne Lessard. They pride themselves on a professional, clean, friendly atmosphere, where their clients are their number one priority. Bodytech Tattooing & Piercing provides tattoo services, body piercing, custom tattoos and jewelry to the Gainesville area. FINALISTS: Anthem Tattoo Parlor Oasis Tattoo Collective FAVORITE LOCAL WAXING SALON

FLOATING LOTUS THERAPEUTIC SPA AND HEALTH CENTER

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 3A, Gainesville, FL 32606 At Floating Lotus, all of their waxing treatments use all-natural beeswax – an antimicrobial liquid that melts at skin temperature, which makes the hair removal process much more comfortable than ordinary wax. The nourishing vegetable oils, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide give their wax a creamy texture, which soothes the skin as it conditions and heals. FINALISTS: Red Fern Esthetics Brazils Waxing Center Salon Ziba (Ziba De Beaute)

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FAVORITE LOCAL YOGA STUDIO/ INSTRUCTOR

SEARCHLIGHT YOGA

3501 SW 2nd Ave. Suite O, Gainesville, FL 32607 Located in the beautiful Creekside Plaza, Searchlight features a full schedule of daily classes like spiritual fitness, yin and mindful flow yoga; workshops and special events. FINALISTS: Yoga Pod SW Yoga Pod NW FAVORITE URGENT CARE

ONESTOP MEDICAL

15652 NW US Highway 441, Suite 2D, Alachua, FL 32615 OneStop Medical’s walk-in clinic and urgent care offer community members an array of medical services relating to injuries, occupational medicine, vaccines, worker’s comp, specific illnesses, CBD and medical marijuana, DOT, labs and x-rays. FINALISTS: Emergency Physicians Medical Center CareSpot Urgent Care – Gainesville

NIGHTLIFE FAVORITE BURLESQUE PERFORMER

LEVIATHAN ENVY

When it comes to burlesque performances, Gainesville is a hub for unique and colorful performers decked out in sequin, tassel and feather costumes, but among them all, Our Town readers’ favorite burlesque performer is Leviathan Envy. FINALISTS: Betty Shiraz Lola La Colombe FAVORITE DOWNTOWN BAR

MADRINA’S

9 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 With thirst-quenching, hand-crafted cocktails like the flamingo pop with passionfruit, ginger and rosewater; the matcha colada with matcha, coconut cream and pineapple; guava the hut with guava, vanilla and lime; and unique daiquiris flavors like carrot, cucumber or banana, Madrina’s is Gainesville’s favorite downtown bar. FINALISTS: Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville The Leaning Pig

FAVORITE LOCAL BAR TO PLAY GAMES

ARCADE BAR

6 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 The Arcade Bar is three stories of hand-selected arcade games and two full-service bars. The lower level offers pinballs, shooters and fighters with a tiki-style bar; classic arcade games and bubble hockey on the second and skeeball, foosball, classic multicade games and a large full-service bar on the third. FINALISTS: Blackadder Brewing Company Dave & Buster’s FAVORITE LOCAL BEER (KIND)

FIRST MAGNITUDE: VEGA

1220 SE Veitch St. Gainesville, FL 32601 First Magnitude Brewing Company’s Vega Blonde Ale is a bright, crisp, light-bodied beer with a hint of citrus perfect for stargazing and daydreaming. Aside from being a local favorite, Vega was the 2018 World Beer Cup Silver Medal Winner. FINALISTS: Swamp Head: Big Nose Blackadder Brewing: Giggling Imbecile

GAINESVILLE’S LEADING DESIGN-BUILD COMPANY

CUSTOM KITCHENS

Lic# CBC1265042

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CUSTOM BATHROOMS

HOME ADDITIONS

(352) 335-1454

QualityDesignWorks.com

FAVORITE LOCAL BLOODY MARY

FAVORITE LOCAL DIVE BAR

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE

CRAFTY BASTARDS RESTAURANT

1714 SW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 Shula’s Steak House’s menus are bursting with fresh ingredients and the most unforgettable flavors including their legacy steak menu and a cocktail menu featuring the Gainesville favorite bloody Mary. FINALISTS: Blackadder Brewing Company Northwest Grille

4860 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 Crafty Bastards provides the perfect location for those wanting something a little different from the norm. With a fresh, made-from-scratch menu and a selection of craft beer and wine, they aren’t looking to duplicate the place down the road, they’re simply doing what they love and know you’ll love too. FINALISTS: Mother’s Pub & Grill North Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL BREWERY

SWAMP HEAD BREWERY

FAVORITE LOCAL FANCY-PANTS BAR

3650 SW 42nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608 From the finest malts to the most aromatic and flavorful hops available, Swamp Head Brewery uses only quality ingredients in their brewery. Whether local honey and blueberries or a spice from a local garden, they embrace the natural flavors of the land and share them in their beer. FINALISTS: Cypress & Grove Brewing Company First Magnitude Brewing Company

MADRINA’S

9 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 From flavored daiquiris like banana, strawberry and carrot to mixed drinks like the matcha colada, guava the hutt and disco fizz, Madrina’s is Gainesville’s favorite fancy-pants bar. FINALISTS: Fluid Lounge Spark at Embers

FAVORITE LOCAL HAPPY HOUR

MARK’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE

201 SE 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 Mark’s Prime Steakhouse has a goal to create a unique dining experience that will please the palate and soothe the soul. They serve the finest beef, the freshest seafood, premium wines and naturally fresh vegetables. FINALISTS: Alpin Bistro Local Provisions FAVORITE LOCAL HIPSTER SPOT

THE TOP

30 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 Since 2000, The Top has catered to vegans, vegetarians and meat-loving carnivores alike while offering over 33 rotating draft lines, and craft cocktails to warm your cheeks. Their overall mission is to serve good food, good drinks and good times. FINALISTS: Public & General Madrina’s

Call us at

352.559.3050 7420 W. Newberry Rd. Ste B Gainesville, FL 32605

IMAGINE YOUR CBC1262184

#RedDoorNation

HOME HERE RedDoorHomesFL.com JULY/AUG 2022

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FAVORITE LOCAL IRISH BAR

LIMEROCK ROAD NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO KARAOKE

FAVORITE LOCAL MARTINI

SPURRIER’S GRIDIRON GRILLE

9158 SW 51st Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 Fresh, friendly and local; burgers, beer, ribs and rum; friends and family, all at Limerock Road in the Haile Plantation Village Center. FINALISTS: Blackadder Brewing Company Mother’s Pub & Grill North

4860 Steve Spurrier Way, Gainesville, FL 32608 With Wild Roots Pear, lychee syrup, lemon and vanilla simple syrup, the fruity lychee martini at Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille is a local favorite. FINALISTS: Fluid Lounge The Top

FAVORITE LOCAL MARGARITA

FAVORITE LOCAL PATIO BAR

BOCA FIESTA

232 SE 1st St., Gainesville, FL Boca Fiesta dispenses soda pop, iced tea, coffee and an extensive beer selection as well as fresh-squeezed lemonade, limeade and their local favorite: fresh-squeezed citrus, agave-sweetened margaritas including their house, Boca and Cadillac-style margaritas. FINALISTS: Nopal Cintrón Las Margarita’s

ONE LOVE CAFÉ

4989 NW 40th St., Gainesville, FL 32606 Founded in 2014 by Juli Denney, this outdoor patio cafe is home to musicians, artists, farmers, local vendors, and the Gainesville community. One Love Café offers spacious outdoor patio seating, a massive pet-friendly field for running, fire pits, a tiki bar, a stage for live music, a full-service bar & more. FINALISTS: Great Outdoors Restaurant The Keys Grill & Piano Bar

THE QUEEN’S ARM

5323 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32608 The Queen’s Arms is situated at the Village Center of Haile Plantation neighborhood just a couple of miles from Downtown Gainesville. Enjoy a wide assortment of local, national and international beverages that is bound to please any palette. FINALISTS: University Club Eagles Club FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO SEE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE

CELEBRATION POINTE

4949 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608 From relaxing outside in the beautiful Promenade to shopping for the perfect outfit, the number of amazing things to do at Celebration Pointe is nearly unlimited. FINALISTS: Tioga Town Center Ember’s Wood Grill

COME IN & Feel the

Supermarket Family Owned & Operated Since 1951

Local Difference

WARD’S FAMILY RAISED BEEF AND LOCAL PORK PASTURE-RAISED ANGUS FROM OUR FARM TO YOUR TABLE.

Fresh baked local in-house bread & bread from local bakeries

515 NW 23rd Avenue Gainesville, FL

Huge variety of options from local coffee roasters

352-372-1741

Ready-to-go vegan wraps and tempeh salads prepared in-house PROUDLY SERVING

MONDAY-SATURDAY: 8AM-8PM SUNDAY: 9AM-7PM

PREMIUM LUNCHMEAT & CHEESES

wardsgainesville.com

Local vegan products Thank you for voting for us!

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BBQ prepared & cooked daily — try some today!

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FAVORITE LOCAL SPORTS BAR

CRAFTY BASTARDS RESTAURANT

4860 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 From 60 rotating craft beer drafts and the best happy hours to fresh, from-scratch menu items and board games, the only thing better is watching the game on one of the 23 large TVs at Crafty Bastards Restaurant, Gainesville’s favorite sports bar. FINALISTS: Gators Dockside Gainesville World of Beer FAVORITE LOCAL TRIVIA NIGHT

BLACKADDER BREWING COMPANY

618 NW 60th St. Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32607 Since 2016, Blackadder Brewing has been committed to producing authentic and unique beers that push the boundaries of regular brewing styles and categories. They’re proud to serve our customers with only the best, continually crafting each taste until it’s exactly right. FINALISTS: Gators Dockside Gainesville V Pizza & Side Car Gainesville

OTHER FAVORITES FAVORITE FEMALE MEDIA PERSONALITY

KARA WINSLOW

FAVORITE LOCAL APARTMENT COMPLEX

THE FLATS AT TIOGA TOWN CENTER APARTMENTS

Karawinslowmakeupartist.com Kara Winslow’s work as a freelance on-location makeup artist has been seen on MTV, CNN, MSNBC, FOX News, Oxygen Network and HSN. She’s worked with Olympic athletes, politicians and more as well as on major ad campaigns for AT&T, AXE, Speedo, Gatorade, UPS, Proctor and Gamble and more. FINALISTS: Paige Beck Lisa Sacaccio

105 SW 128th St., Newberry, FL 32669 The Flats at Tioga Town Center are designed to combine urban style living with small town charm. The Flats at Tioga Town Center offer residents a superbly appointed modern living space all within walking distance from a variety of convenient and upscale shopping, a premiere fitness center, restaurants and numerous professional services. FINALISTS: Hunters Crossing Apartments Huntington Lakes Apartments

FAVORITE LOCAL AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

FAVORITE LOCAL ATTORNEY (PERSON)

O2B KIDS

O2bkids.com Every elementary school child who wants to investigate the mysteries of science, explore technology, plant a garden, make a movie, paint a picture, sing a song, write a story, choreograph a dance, toss a ball, laugh, learn or play with their friends will love O2B Afterschool. FINALISTS: Sonshine Day Preschool Sun Country Sports Center

JOHN ROBERTS

7 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470 A graduate of the University of Florida Levin College of Law, John Roberts has over 15 years of valuable experience working in the GainesvilleOcala Area. He focuses his practice on Family Law, Probate, and Estate Planning. FINALISTS: Gary Fernandes Jr. John Kelly

Invested in financial clarity. At Thrivent, we believe money is a tool–not a goal. As a holistic financial services organization, and a membership-owned fraternal organization, providing financial advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs, we are committed to helping you achieve financial clarity. We are here to help provide the guidance you need to live the life you want.

North Central Florida Group 352-226-8000 connect.thrivent.com/ north-central-florida-group Connect with us: 28304 R3-21

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FAVORITE LOCAL AUTO REPAIR SHOP

AUTO ER

2383 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 Auto ER focuses on automotive repairs, collision repairs, and new tires. They have three locations in Gainesville, FL, each with its own specialties, and a fourth in Newberry, FL. All of which are dedicated to providing the best service possible. FINALISTS: Continental Imports City Auto Repair FAVORITE LOCAL AUTOMOTIVE SALESPERSON

RUSSELL PEREZ

1007 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 Russell Perez is a Gainesville native and finance specialist with Motory Group, Gainesville’s go-to dealership for used automobiles with finances available for people with all ranges of credit. Perez’s work in the automotive industry won him recognition among voters as their favorite automotive salesperson. FINALISTS: Jerry Lipiec Bob Cousins (Southeast Car Agency)

FAVORITE LOCAL CLEANING COMPANY

FAVORITE LOCAL BANK

DRUMMOND COMMUNITY BANK

3436 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 At Drummond, their mission is to provide their customers with the very best banking services and sound business decisions all while giving back to the Florida communities they serve. To you, they may just be a bank, but they’re a bank that wants to help you and your money grow. FINALISTS: Ameris Bank Bank of America Regions Bank FAVORITE LOCAL CARPET CLEANER

CLEAN ZONE

Cleanzoneclean.com Since 1997, Clean Zone has been providing customers with a fresh-rinse alternative by using Green Seal Certified, Procyon pre-conditioners on carpets along with a chemical-free, super-heated rinse to extract any soil or other contaminants, which is all part of their motto: More Green, More Clean. FINALISTS: The Best Restoration Dreyer’s DKI

NATURAL SHINE CLEANING

Naturalshineclean.com Natural Shine’s goal is to improve the lives of their clients by promoting ways of healthy living – starting with using all-natural cleaning products in homes and places of work. They hope you’ll feel safer with nontoxic products and that having a clean home will improve you and your family’s well-being. FINALISTS: Mini Maid Gainesville Turnover Specialists FAVORITE LOCAL CONTRACTOR

SCHERER CONSTRUCTION

2504 NW 71st Place, Gainesville, FL 32653 Founded in 1984 by Clark Scherer, Scherer Construction started out of a garage, with a truck, and a vision: to deliver quality projects that exceed customer expectations by providing a seamless construction experience. Today, Scherer Construction continues to fulfill that vision and has expanded their services to reach beyond the typical needs of their customers. FINALISTS: Atlas Homes and Renovations Invoke Construction, LLC

Gift Certificates Available

Acupuncture | Anti-Aging Facials | Far Infrared Therapy | Sauna | Therapeutic Massage

Floating Lotus Spa

Please Stop in: We offer half-hour complimentary BioMat sessions on a massage table to destress and revitalize. Also a chair is available to try! All spa massage therapies are performed on a BioMat.

Thornebrook Village | 2441 NW 43rd Street, Suite 3A www.floatinglotusspa.com | 352-378-8125 | email: fls@floatinglotusspa.com

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FAVORITE LOCAL CREDIT UNION

CAMPUS USA CREDIT UNION

Campuscu.com CAMPUS serves over 125,000 members from all over the world. As a not-for-profit cooperative, they are owned by their members. Profits are returned to member-owners in the form of no- and low-fee financial services and best-ofmarket rates on deposits and loans. FINALISTS: Radiant Credit Union VyStar Credit Union FAVORITE LOCAL DANCE STUDIO

DOXA DANCE STUDIO INC.

2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 Founded in 2004, Doxa Dance Studio offers high-quality instruction in a positive environment. With a passion for dance and a heart for worship, Doxa provides a full array of classes for students of all ages and abilities. FINALISTS: Cameron Dancenter Pofahl Studios

FAVORITE LOCAL DOGGY DAYCARE/ BOARDING

FAVORITE LOCAL DAYCARE

O2B KIDS

O2bkids.com Programs include preschool, afterschool, summer camp and unprecedented family membership. While the O2B Kids programs and facilities vary by location, their commitment to enrichment variety, engaging play and lifelong learning are present at them all. FINALISTS: Sonshine Day Preschool Education Station and Preschool FAVORITE LOCAL DOG GROOMER

CAMP RUN-A-MUTT

1107 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 Camp Run-A-Mutt groomers are skilled, patient and most importantly, they love dogs! Dogs who get groomed while at Camp get to play right up until their appointment time. Most dogs enjoy the one-on-one attention and their groomers know that tired dogs are more relaxed and easier to groom. FINALISTS: Doggie Styles Pelusa’s Pet Grooming

CAMP RUN-A-MUTT

1107 S Main St. Gainesville, FL 32601 Camp Run-A-Mutt is the premier cage-free doggie daycare and boarding paradise. Their services include daycare, boarding, grooming and obedience classes. Their camp is beautiful, fun, safe and supervised 24/7 and features over 11,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play area for dogs to romp, play and socialize. FINALISTS: Pet Paradise Gainesville Archer Road Pet Resort FAVORITE LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

DEL SOL ELECTRIC

3515 NW 12th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 Del Sol Electric can handle all your electric needs with their areas of expertise including but not limited to installing or replacing electrical switches and outlets; upgrading wiring panels; providing electrical additions and remodels and offering electrical service upgrades. FINALISTS: Archer Electric Services Co Ed Dempsey – Dempsey Electric

Creating New Futures For Homeless Women & Families

Our work would not be possible without support from our community. Thank you for your ongoing support and compassion for those most in need!

St. Francis House, Inc. 413 South Main Street • (352)-378-9079

To donate or learn more visit: stfrancishousegnv.com JULY/AUG 2022

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FAVORITE LOCAL FINANCIAL PLANNER

NORTH FLORIDA WEALTH ADVISORS

2727 NW 43rd St. Suite 1, Gainesville, FL 32606 As certified financial planners, North Florida Wealth Advisors understand the importance of helping make the best financial decisions for you and your family. They provide their expertise, experience and judgment regarding your financial future. FINALISTS: Cornerstone Financial Tryssa Pacciulli – Your Financial Legacy FAVORITE LOCAL FLOORING COMPANY

THE FLOOR STORE AT THORNEBROOK

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 18, Gainesville, FL 32606 Quality flooring products with a written warranty installed to your complete satisfaction. Their full-service flooring showroom offers a unique and diverse way of providing customers with the latest trends in ceramic, stone, wood flooring, laminate, and carpet. FINALISTS: The Newberry Floor Store Carpet One Floor & Home

FAVORITE LOCAL HOME BUILDER

FAVORITE LOCAL HOTEL

PRIDGEN HOMES

1252 NW 50th Drive, Gainesville, FL 32605 Pridgen is a family-owned company that has built custom luxury homes in the Gainesville community for decades. They have a heart for quality, an eye for detail and careful craftsmanship that’s valued by their clients, which creates an easy, stress-free experience. FINALISTS: Red Door Homes of Florida Robinson Renovation & Custom Homes, Inc. FAVORITE LOCAL HOME ORGANIZER

ANGELA BETANCOURT

Simplifyhomeorganizing.com After reading “The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide” by Francine Jay, Angela Betancourt began implementing the book’s recommendations and formed the skills she needed to turn her passion into Simplify Home Organizing.

GRADY HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST

24042 W US Highway 27, High Springs, FL 32643 Visit the historic Grady House Bed & Breakfast where morning greets you with a gourmet breakfast beautifully prepared and plated. Enjoy freshly-brewed coffee while you stroll the winding path through the fenced garden full of Florida fauna and a lovely koi pond by the gazebo. FINALISTS: Hotel Indigo Gainesville Best Western Gateway Grand FAVORITE LOCAL HVAC COMPANY

Daytonheatandair.com Dayton Heating and Air is a small local business that provides Gainesville, Newberry and the surrounding area with premium services like AC repair, replacement, and maintenance at an affordable price. FINALISTS: Crystal Air Conditioning & Heating Bounds Heating & Air

IT’S TIME TO GET FYZICAL IF: • You are dizzy or experiencing vertigo • You have fallen or fear that you may fall • You want to boost your confidence • You want to improve your strength and endurance FYZICAL will help you • You are tired of living in pain get better and love your • You want to prevent injury life again.

352-240-1136 fyzical.com/gainesville

5201 NW 34th BLVD, Gainesville, FL 124 |

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DAYTON HEATING AND AIR, LLC

Call for a Free Consultation!

FAVORITE LOCAL INSURANCE AGENCY

SCHNEIDER & ASSOCIATES

285 NW 138th Terrace, Suite 100 Newberry, FL 32669 Living in Florida comes with its own unique risks. That’s why Schneider & Associates’ local agents who are familiar with those risks can help you find the right coverage to protect your family, your home, and your business from everything Florida throws at you. FINALISTS: Brightway Insurance, The Moffat Agency MC Fernandes Insurance FAVORITE LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT

DAN SHAW (FLORIDA FARM BUREAU INSURANCE)

5700 SW 34th St., Gainesville, FL 32608 Get real, auto, home, life! Dan Shaw helps clients with life insurance and annuity products that are offered through the southern farm bureau life insurance company. FINALISTS: Kristy Moffat (Brightway Insurance) Shaun McClintic (Schneider & Associates)

FAVORITE LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNER

THE HOME PLACE

105 SW 140th Court Suite 2, Jonesville, FL 32669 The Home Place is an all-encompassing home interiors store, offering fully customizable products and consultation services to homeowners and trade professionals. FINALISTS: Quality DesignWorks Decorating with Barbara Inc. FAVORITE LOCAL IT SUPPORT COMPANY

EPIC IT SOLUTIONS

5200 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 Epic IT Solutions was established to provide Information Technology Services to the business community of north central Florida. They work in partnership with current and future clients to provide cost-effective solutions in Information Technology and Communication with plans to build on their expertise to expand into new areas. FINALISTS: My IT Masters CW IT Solutions

From Breakfast to Dinner, Hors d`ouevres to make-your-own stations, vegan to gluten-free, we have the handcrafted food, drink & décor to wow your guests and make your event memorable!

FAVORITE LOCAL LANDSCAPER

THE MASTER’S LAWN CARE

11417 NW 59th Terrace, Gainesville, Florida 32653 Since its founding in 2004, The Master’s Lawn Care has proudly served the Gainesville community in areas like lawn service, landscaping, irrigation, pressure washing and lighting while aiming to constantly exceed their client’s expectations by providing quality work and professionalism. FINALISTS: West Farms Gary Becker Landscape Mai FAVORITE LOCAL LAW FIRM (COMPANY)

FERNANDES & FERNANDES, P.A.

4432 NW 23rd Ave. Suite 9, Gainesville, FL 32606 At Fernandes & Fernandes P.A., their purpose is to guide clients through every step of their legal process. Through preparation and individual attention, they strive to achieve the best possible results. When it comes to social security disability and personal injury law, they offer their clients a level of advocacy that is second to none. FINALISTS: Gumminger Law Glassman & Zissimopulos

Full Service Catering

12 W. University Ave, Gainesville (352) 451-4046 tosheventgroup.com

Photos: Barbara Ann Photography

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FAVORITE LOCAL MARKETING AGENCY

PHOS CREATIVE

FAVORITE LOCAL MOVING COMPANY

LATER GATOR MOVING LLC

2131 NW 40th Terrace Suite B, Gainesville, FL 32605 As your digital marketing partner, PHOS Creative will help you discover your unique mission, vision, values and why then help to build a digital brand system through branding, messaging, web design, photography and videography to ensure your business can find and connect with the right people. FINALISTS: DM Creative Studios Liquid Creative Studio (Gainesville)

9124 SW 51st Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 Later Gator Moving is a licensed and insured Gainesville moving company that specializes in secure, professional and efficient long-distance, out-of-state moving services. They’re dedicated to delivering your most valued possessions securely no matter the distance. FINALISTS: UF Mover Guys College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

FAVORITE LOCAL MORTGAGE COMPANY

FAVORITE LOCAL NEWS COMMENTATOR OR COLUMNIST

THE MORTGAGE FIRM GAINESVILLE

3669 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 The Mortgage Firm Gainesville is a local mortgage lender serving homebuyers and homeowners in North Central Florida. They help their clients secure the best loans for their unique situations and specialize in home refinance for those looking to decrease monthly payments. FINALISTS: AnnieMac Home Mortgage – Gainesville Chris Doering Mortgage

Thank you for voting for us!

GREG CASSIDY

Audacy.com Greg Cassidy has been the executive producer and co-host for 97.3 The SKY since 2017. Before that, the St. Louis-native was featured as the on-air talent for The Rock St. Louis, on The Morning Show with 106.9 The Pulse and 99.1 JOY FM among others.

FAVORITE LOCAL PAINTING COMPANY

COLOR PROS PAINTING, LLC

4133 NW 9th St., Gainesville, FL 32609 At Color Pros, their attention to detail sets them apart from the rest. They use only the highest-quality products to ensure your investment is protected. They’re professional, licensed and insured. FINALISTS: Marty Jones - Color Creators Painting CertaPro Painters of Gainesville FL FAVORITE LOCAL PEST CONTROL COMPANY

116 NW 16th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 Florida Pest Control & Chemical Co. is Florida’s best source for pest management with 20 locations throughout the state – including one in Gainesville. Their commitment to research and their team of graduate entomologists provides the highest level of advanced pest management training available in the industry. FINALISTS: Ecopest Termite & Pest Control McCall Service

Tired of wasting your valuable time and money trying to ﬁx your pain and your health? Do you find that most health care isn't comprehensive and doesn't truly produce the results you're looking for? Dr. Jared did too. At Results Chiropractic and Wellness, we take a comprehensive approach to health and wellness. Through specific manual spinal and extremity adjustments, soft tissue therapy, posture and movement corrective exercises, nutrition, and supplementation, our patients are able to restore their health and vitality. Contact us today!

352-244-8892

1330 NW 6th Street Suite C-1 •

Mon, Wed, Thurs - 9am-12pm, 2:30pm-5:30pm Tues & Fri - 9am-1:30pm Gainesville, FL 32601 Sat & Sun - Closed

Results Chiropractic and Wellness • www.theresultschiropractor.com

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FLORIDA PEST CONTROL

FAVORITE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER

ADRIENNE FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

Women.adriennefletcher.com Adrienne Fletcher Photography is a boutique portrait studio that looks to empower women of any age and body type through the medium of photography by creating experiences that leave women feeling confident, valued, beautiful and seen for who they are. FINALISTS: Magnolia Lane Photography Catching Memories Photography LLC FAVORITE LOCAL PLUMBER

QUALITY PLUMBING OF GAINESVILLE

6318 NW 18th Drive Gainesville, FL 32653 No matter how big or small the project is Quality Plumbing of Gainesville is committed to courtesy, promptness, efficiency and total communication with their customers. They want you to be aware of options, cost and the status of your project at all times. These are the principles on which the company was built. FINALISTS: Clinton Dykehouse Services LLC Titletown Plumbing, LLC

FAVORITE LOCAL PODCAST

KARA’S LIPSTICK DIARY

Facebook.com/Karas-Lipstick-DiaryPodcast Kara’s friends encouraged her to share her amusing stories of dating, sex and life, so, in the middle of the pandemic, she decided to start a podcast about all the things that entertain her. So grab a cocktail with us and welcome to the hot mess that is Kara’s life as a 40-year-old single makeup artist living in a college town in Florida. FINALISTS: VetFolio Voice Science and Chill FAVORITE LOCAL POOL COMPANY

FUN STATE POOL SERVICE

3601 NW 97th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 Fun State Pools Inc. was founded in 1978 and has been operating for over 40 years. Through the years, they have become North Central Florida’s leading pool builder. FINALISTS: Southern Escapes LLC Florida Leisure Pool & Spa

FAVORITE LOCAL PRESCHOOL

O2B KIDS

O2bkids.com Teaching children their colors, shapes, letters, letter sounds, numbers and how to count – that’s the easy stuff! It takes time and some repetition – but they’ll learn it all. They will even learn to read and write along the way at O2B Kids. FINALISTS: Education Station & Preschool Sonshine Day Preschool FAVORITE LOCAL PRIVATE SCHOOL

CORNERSTONE ACADEMY

Cornerstoneacademy.school Cornerstone Academy’s combination of home study and classroom study comprises an educational model that allows parents a high level of responsibility for their children’s education through partnership with seasoned professionals. FINALISTS: Oak Hall School Millhopper Montessori School

Now Accepting New Patients

At Little Pine Pediatrics, LLC, our skilled team of pediatricians offers comprehensive medical care for infants, children and adolescents. Our courteous and knowledgeable staff works hard from first contact to make every visit to our office positive.

Thank you for voting for us!

Little Pine Pediatrics

Open M-F 8am–5pm Saturdays 9am-Noon 15551 NW Hwy 441, Suite 40, Alachua

386-518-0102 LittlePinePediatrics.com

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FAVORITE LOCAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY

KNR PROPERTIES – KRISTEN RABELL

5213 SW 91st Terrace, Suite A-1, Gainesville, FL 32608 Setting the Standard in Gainesville property management, KNR Properties provides the highest standard of professional management and tenant placement services for investors and homeowners in Gainesville and they work hard to ensure your properties have the best marketing strategy, tenant screening, maintenance and return on your investment. FINALISTS: Union Properties of Gainesville Contemporary Management Concepts, LLLP FAVORITE LOCAL REALTOR

RIC FAIR – WATSON REALTY GROUP

12921 SW 1st Road Suite 117, Newberry, FL 32669 Ric Fair is a consummate real estate professional who helps buyers and sellers in North Central Florida and across the globe. A Gainesville native and UF Alum, Ric knows Alachua County and the surrounding Counties like the back of his hand and has a knack for navigating “Titletown”. FINALISTS: Lisa Baltozer Kristen Rabell FAVORITE LOCAL RESTORATION COMPANY

THE BEST RESTORATION & FLOOR CARE

7230 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 Trust The Best Restoration for all your carpet cleaning, water damage and restoration needs. Their core cleaning services consist of water cleanup, water extraction, flood damage cleanup, mold remediation, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, area rug cleaning, air duct cleaning and tile and grout cleaning services. FINALISTS: Southern Restoration & Design Dreyer’s DKI

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FAVORITE LOCAL ROOFING COMPANY

RETEX ROOFING FL

FAVORITE LOCAL SPORTS COMMENTATOR OR COLUMNIST

PAT DOOLEY

9630 NW 235th Terrace, Alachua, FL You protect your family, RETEX protects your home. Quality, integrity and good old-fashioned service are the pillars they thrive on. They offer complimentary estimates on roof replacement and repair; siding; windows, and more. FINALISTS: Energy Roofing Companies Gainesville True Force Roofing

Gainesville.com Pat Dooley has been at The Gainesville Sun since 1987 and has been the sports columnist since 1994. He takes credit for all of the national titles won by Florida since then. FINALISTS: Jeff Cardozo

FAVORITE LOCAL SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

Thesky973.radio.com Bob Rose is the host of the Bob Rose Show on 97.3 The Sky and has been called the Czar of Talk Radio in North Central Florida. His show takes an uncompromising look at local news and world events and how they impact Ocala and Gainesville. FINALISTS: Bret Baier Ward Scott Files

HARBORCHASE OF GAINESVILLE

1415 Fort Clarke Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 HarborChase of Gainesville provides a luxury senior living setting to those looking to enjoy their retirement without worries. Residents in their community enjoy a series of convenient amenities and services such as housekeeping, transportation and beautiful scenery. FINALISTS: Oak Hammock The Village at Gainesville FAVORITE LOCAL SOLAR ENERGY COMPANY

ENLIGHT ENERGY

Enlight.energy/Gainesville EnLight.Energy can work closely with you to adopt solutions that drastically reduce your electric, gas or oil bill; renovate your home to eliminate those energy bills altogether or, if you’re in the market, guide you in buying or building a Zero Energy Home. FINALISTS: Sunlink Solar Energy Solar Impact

FAVORITE LOCAL TALK RADIO SHOW

BOB ROSE

FAVORITE LOCAL TAX PREPARER

MICHAEL SOLOMON (ACCOUNTING PERSONALIZED INC.)

4210 NW 37th Place Suite 300, Gainesville, FL 32606 Michael Solomon is the lead accountant and owner of Accounting Personalized Inc. In 2012, he graduated from Elon University’s five-year accounting program in three and a half years. Upon graduation, he was accepted by the North Carolina CPA board as well as the AICPA to be a CPA candidate. FINALISTS: Fiore Tax Services Kristen Lovano

FAVORITE LOCAL TREE REMOVAL COMPANY

DAUGHTRY TREE SERVICE

26106 NW 3rd Ave., Newberry, FL 32669 Daughtry Tree Service has been serving both residential and commercial clients in Alachua County and the surrounding areas since 2001. Their business philosophy includes being fair and honest with their customers and go above and beyond their expectations while providing quality work. FINALISTS: Gator Tree Service Sky Frog Tree Service FAVORITE LOCAL TV ANCHOR

PAIGE BECK

Wcjb.com Paige Beck is a West Virginia native who’s been a member of WCJB TV20 since 1989. She currently co-anchors WCJB TV20’s 5:00 Live, 6:00 Report and the 11:00 PM Nightbeat and was voted by Our Town readers as their favorite local TV anchor. FINALISTS: Lisa Sacaccio David Snyder

FAVORITE LOCAL VET CLINIC

ALL SPRINGS VETERINARY HOSPITAL

12613 County Road 137 Wellborn, FL 32094 At All Springs Veterinary Hospital, they know your pets are members of your family and they treat them with all the care, dignity and expertise you expect from a veterinary hospital. Dr. Richard Barker and the hospital staff have been providing loving care to pets in Suwannee County for 20 years. FINALISTS: Jonesville Animal Hospital Haile Plantation Animal Clinic FAVORITE LOCAL VIDEOGRAPHER

SHORT MEDIA GROUP

Shortmediagroup.com Short Media Group is a content creation company in Gainesville that focuses on providing clients with the perfect creative experience. Every business or individual has a powerful story to tell and they strive to capture each story in a unique way for others to share. FINALISTS: Innova Leaf Creative Solutions, LLC Digital Peak Productions

FAVORITE LOCAL WINDOW COVERING

BUDGET BLINDS OF GAINESVILLE

3201 SW 42nd St. Suite 4, Gainesville, FL 32608 Budget Blinds of Gainesville, FL brings the showroom to you, accurately measures your windows, and installs your blinds, shades, shutters and much more. FINALISTS: Alachua Blind Company A1 Aluminum Enterprises, Inc. FAVORITE MALE MEDIA PERSONALITY

LEWIS STOKES

937kcountry.com Lewis Stokes has been a radio DJ at 93.7 K-Country for over 27 years. Stokes was raised in north central Florida and Gator games have been a way of life since 1979. You can catch Stokes on 93.7 K-Country Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. FINALISTS: Bob Rose Mike Potter

COME EXPERIENCE THE CONFIDENCE! Confidence Hair Salon is an up-scale studio salon. From Cuts to Brazilian Blowouts I have all your hair care needs covered! The one on one setting allows for thorough communication giving me the ability to highlight beauty that goes far beyond hair. New client offer* Mention this ad and receive 10% off your next visit!

352-678-8223

4131 NE 28th Lane Suite 7 Room F

Confidence Hair Salon Confidence_by_Christy Booking site: https://christyhenneman.glossgenius.com/

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FAVORITE METEOROLOGIST

FRESH HEALTHY

SMART

MIKE POTTER

Wruf.com WRUF operates from the University of Florida’s main campus in Gainesville, broadcasting at 98.1 FM, 850 kHz and covers the University of Florida athletics. FINALISTS: The JOY FM 97.3 The Sky

FAVORITE PROMOTIONAL PRODUCT COMPANY

Sfcollege.edu Joseph Mousel, who receives his Master’s in Science degree from the University of Montana, is a mathematics teacher and a member of the Liberal Arts and Sciences Curriculum Subcommittee at Santa Fe College. FINALISTS: Dawn Graziani Elizabeth Suda

101 SW 140th Terrace, Suite C Newberry, FL 32669 Hello Branding has hundreds of thousands of items that can be imprinted with your logo or message so you can promote your brand, business, event or cause. Whether you know exactly what you want or need inspiration, they’ve made it easy for you to find the perfect product. FINALISTS: Bee Print and Design Rad Wear, Inc.

• Full Service Hair: Shampoo/Blowout/ Haircuts/Style/Color/Highlights/Hair Extensions & more! • Eyelash Extenstions • Lash Lifts • Facials • Microdermabrasion • Waxing •UV Tanning & Spray Tanning: Mystic Spray/Custom Airbrush/ UV Beds

LAE Beauty Bar

Gift Certificates Available now! (352) 331-9693 618 NW 60th St. 130 | OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

JUST OFF NEWBERRY RD NEXT TO BOOKS A MILLION

JULY/AUG 2022

WRUF-FM GAINESVILLE

Wcjb.com Mike Potter, a Key West native and meteorologist with WCJB, has been reporting the weather for the Gainesville-based station since 1992 – appearing on TV20’s Morning Edition and TV20 News at Noon. However, it’s not the first time he worked at WCJB; he was a Weekend Weather Anchor in 1984. FINALISTS: Jeff Huffman Bill Quinlan TV20

HELLO BRANDING

BEAUTY SERVICES AVAILABLE IN INDIVIDUAL SUITES

FAVORITE RADIO STATION

FAVORITE RADIO PERSONALITY

LEWIS STOKES

937kcountry.com Lewis Stokes is a midday announcer and production director with 93.7 K-Country. Though he’s a Tallahassee native, he bleeds orange and blue and when he’s not reading, listening to country music or watching a UF game, you can hear him on 93.7 K-Country from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. FINALISTS: Bob Rose Brett Douglas

FAVORITE SANTA FE PROFESSOR

JOSEPH MOUSEL

FAVORITE TV STATION FOR NEWS

WCJB TV20

Wcjb.com WCJB-TV began operation in 1971 and continues to be the only locally produced newscast in the market. The news team prides itself on supporting and sponsoring many local charities and events throughout the market while also bringing viewers the most current and breaking news. FINALISTS: CBS4 News WUFT-TV Gainesville FAVORITE TV STATION FOR SPORTS

WCJB TV20 / GAINESVILLE CW10

Wcjb.com WCJB brings viewers the latest news around North Central Florida including sports broadcasts by sports director Kevin Wells and weekend sports anchor Chris Pinson. FINALISTS: WOGX Fox 51 Television

FAVORITE TV STATION FOR WEATHER

WCJB TV20 / GAINESVILLE CW10

Wcjb.com Chief meteorologist Bill Quinlan, meteorologist Mike Potter and weekend meteorologist AJ Willy, bring WCJB TV20 viewers the latest in weather updates. If it’s a cool sunny day or an impending hurricane, WCJB TV20 is Our Town readers’ favorite weather station. FINALISTS: WUFT-TV Gainesville FAVORITE UF PROFESSOR

DR. BEN WISE

History.ufl.edu Associate Professor Ben Wise is a historian of modern America and specializes in southern history; gender and sexuality and cultural history. He joined the History Department at UF as an Assistant Professor after teaching at Harvard University and holding a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. FINALISTS: David Baekey Christina Ramos

FAVORITE LOCAL ANTIQUE STORE

SYCAMORE LANE VINTAGE MARKET

25310 W Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669 Sycamore Lane Vintage Market is a community-focused vintage & gift store located in downtown Newberry, FL with a seasonal outdoor market in rural Alachua County. They feature an amazing selection of curated vintage goods & a variety of local makers. FINALISTS: Painted Table FAVORITE LOCAL ART GALLERY

GAINESVILLE ARTISANS’ GUILD GALLERY

SHOPPING

Union Street Station, 201 SE 2nd Place, Suite 113, Gainesville, FL 32601 Established in 1970 to create a network and market for local artists, the Artisans’ Guild Gallery is among the oldest artist cooperatives in the country. Located in downtown Gainesville and open year-round, the gallery features hundreds of quality, handcrafted works with local flavor. FINALISTS: Thornebrook Gallery

FAVORITE “BEST-KEPT SECRET” LOCAL RETAILER

FAVORITE LOCAL AUDIO/VISUAL STORE

SUDA’S FITFOOT

Sudasfitfoot.com Suda’s FitFoot is a mobile and online shoe store helping customers live life to the fullest by freeing them from foot and leg pain. They take the hassle out of shoe shopping by offering social-distance appropriate fittings, deliveries, online sales, and pop-up shops where you live, work, and play. FINALISTS: Life Unplastic Grow Thyme Hydroponics & Supply

ELECTRONICS WORLD

1261 NW 76th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 Electronics World is your hometown resource for expert design, sales, installation and repair of audio, video, networking and control products and complete turnkey system solutions. They have extensive experience designing and installing sophisticated solutions that are simple to operate and can customize the project to fit your lifestyle and budget.

FAVORITE LOCAL BICYCLE SHOP

BIKES AND MORE

Bikesandmoregainesville.com Since its founding in 1983, Bikes & More has been a destination shop for quality, timely bicycle repair and service. They outfit riders with bicycles from Raleigh, Felt, Surly and Spot Brand. FINALISTS: Goodbike Dave’s Bike Shop FAVORITE LOCAL BRIDAL SHOP

THE WEDDING CYCLE

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 2-D, Gainesville, FL 32606 The Wedding Cycle offers pre-loved fantasy gowns on a real-life budget. Alisha Alsbrook, the owner of the Wedding Cycle, has a background in event planning and in the wedding industry, giving her the ability to provide customers with the knowledge and information to help create the best event possible. FINALISTS: Allure Bridal Boutique David’s Bridal FAVORITE LOCAL CAR DEALERSHIP (NEW CAR)

GATORLAND TOYOTA

2985 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32609 Gainesville’s Gatorland Toyota dealership opened in 1994, just four years after Gettel Toyota of Bradenton, making them the second Gettel dealership to open. They’ve since grown to have 17 sister stores throughout Florida, but Gainesville’s location is a favorite among locals looking for a new car. FINALISTS: BMW of Gainesville Gainesville Nissan

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FAVORITE LOCAL CAR DEALERSHIP (USED CAR)

MOTORY GROUP ALACHUA

15850 NW US Highway 441, Alachua, FL 32615 Motory Group Alachua offers car buyers a virtual showroom of inventory available for purchase. Their customers can find detailed information about each vehicle, a picture gallery, as well as convenient ways to contact the dealership for more information about that particular vehicle. FINALISTS: Southeast Car Agency Tomlinson Motor Company FAVORITE LOCAL CHILDREN’S STORE

ALACHUA FLOWERS AND TUXEDO RENTALS

14520 Main St., Alachua, FL 32615 FINALISTS: Lightnin’ Salvage Enterprises Weecycle of Gainesville FAVORITE LOCAL CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

MADSON BOUTIQUE

18635 High Springs Main St., High Springs, FL 32643 Madson Boutique is a family-owned women’s boutique in High Springs, FL. They offer styles for everyone’s wardrobe. FINALISTS: DTE Boutique AGAPANTHUS - Gainesville FAVORITE LOCAL COMPUTER REPAIR SHOP

DOG BYTES COMPUTERS INC.

605 NW 53rd Ave. Suite A11b, Gainesville, FL 32609 Since 1997, Dog Bytes Computers has been providing a wide range of computer sales and computer system services to Gainesville and the surrounding areas. They are proud of their excellent reputation and ability to provide the highest level of customer service.

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FAVORITE LOCAL FLOWER SHOP

ALACHUA FLOWERS AND TUXEDO RENTALS

14520 Main St., Alachua, FL 32615 Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rentals creates breathtaking floral arrangements made with quality flowers crafted by experienced designers. They also thrive during prom season with tuxedo rentals and custom-made corsages and boutonnières created to match even the most exotic dress colors. FINALISTS: Kelly’s Kreations Crevasse’s Florist FAVORITE LOCAL FURNITURE STORE

THE HOME PLACE

105 SW 140th Court Suite 2, Jonesville, FL 32669 Your home, your style. The Home Place brings home furnishings and decor to you including flooring, cabinets, rugs, furniture, window coverings, tile, bedding and more. FINALISTS: Walker Furniture Planned Furnishings FAVORITE LOCAL GIFT SHOP

MY HAPPY PLACE ON MAIN

14925 Main St., Alachua, FL 32615 From the time you walk in the door, they want you to feel welcomed and appreciated. At My Happy Place on Main, their goal is to create a place for you to visit and when you leave you are a little, yes, you guessed it, happier than when you came in. FINALISTS: Thornebrook Gallery The Home Place

FAVORITE LOCAL GROCERY STORE

WARD’S SUPERMARKET

515 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32609 Ward’s Supermarket is the only locally-owned and operated grocery store in Gainesville. Their family has been committed to providing the best selection, quality, and prices for more than 50 years and offers a bountiful array of fresh local produce, seafood, meat, baked goods, beer, wine and more. FINALISTS: Publix Super Market - Market Square ALDI FAVORITE LOCAL HARDWARE STORE

MILLHOPPER ACE HARDWARE

5200 NW 43rd St. Suite 203, Gainesville, FL 32606 Millhopper Ace Hardware opened in Hunters Crossing Shopping Center in 2011, offering customers personal service, quality products and a convenient experience. Store manager Adam Wilkinson has been with the location since the beginning and if you come often enough you’ll get to know Leo the resident feline. FINALISTS: Jonesville Ace Hardware Alachua Farm & Lumber Inc. FAVORITE LOCAL HOME DECOR STORE

THE HOME PLACE

105 SW 140th Court, Suite 2, Jonesville, FL 32669 At The Home Place, they are dedicated to providing expert advice and quality products to create a one-of-a-kind design. FINALISTS: Sisset’s...A Fun Twist on Home & Patio Walker Furniture

FAVORITE LOCAL HOME THEATRE DESIGNER

ELECTRONICS WORLD

1261 NW 76th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 Electronics World is your hometown resource for expert design, sales, installation and repair of audio, video, networking and control products and complete turnkey system solutions. Their interactive showroom features the latest in audio/video and home automation electronics. FAVORITE LOCAL JEWELRY STORE

BRITTANY’S FINE JEWELRY

2441 NW 43rd St. Suite 24b-2, Gainesville, FL 32606 Brittany’s Fine Jewelry is your source for the best jewelry collections in Gainesville and North Central Florida. They offer a beautiful selection of designer jewelry including engagement rings, wedding ring sets, necklaces, earrings, men’s jewelry, Florida Gator jewelry and more. FINALISTS: Lang Jewelry Hayes Jewelry Ltd

FAVORITE LOCAL LIQUOR & WINE STORE

JIGZ LIQUOR

FAVORITE LOCAL MUSIC STORE (ALBUMS)

HEAR AGAIN RECORDS

5192 SW 34th St., Gainesville, FL 32608 At Jigz Liquor, they take pride in providing excellent customer service. They’ll always go the extra mile to ensure their customers get what they need and leave their store satisfied. They’re continuously working with our vendors and partners to reduce prices and give you the opportunity to try new products all the time. FINALISTS: Dorn’s Liquors & Wine Warehouse Crafty Bastards Restaurant

201 SE 2nd Ave. Suite 105, Gainesville, FL 32601 Hear Again is an independent record store in downtown Gainesville, FL. Since 2009, they’ve proudly been a source for new and used vinyl. They receive new vinyl each day and work closely with your favorite labels and then some to ensure that they have the new releases you want when you want them. FINALISTS: Hoggtowne Music Guitar Center Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL MEN’S CLOTHING

FAVORITE LOCAL MUSIC STORE (INSTRUMENTS)

H&M

6419 Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL 32605 H&M at The Oaks Mall in Gainesville offers a broad and varied range that allows customers to find their own personal style at the best price. The collections are created with H&M’s broad clientele in mind and the aim is to satisfy many different tastes and requirements. FINALISTS: Men’s Warehouse

HOGGTOWNE MUSIC

2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 Hoggtowne Music, which is now located at the Thornebrook Village, is a music store in Gainesville selling musical instruments, instrument repairs and music lessons seven days a week. FINALISTS: Guitar Center Gainesville

OUR NAME SAYS IT ALL! The original “Quality Plumbers” serving the community since 1984

(352) 377-1009 Quality-Plumbing.com JULY/AUG 2022

Lic# CFC043073

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FAVORITE LOCAL NEW OR USED BOOK STORE

BOOK GALLERY WEST

4121 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 Book Gallery West started in 1983 on main street as a textbook store, but over time the original owner decided to open a second location that offered books other than textbooks. The second location, on the west side of town, became Book Gallery West and eventually replaced the parent store. FINALISTS: 2nd & Charles Gainesville Third House Books FAVORITE LOCAL PAWN SHOP

PAWN PRO

25040 W Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669 Pawn Pro is a family-owned local business with over 20 years of pawnbroking experience. They offer their customers the best deals and the most money for their merchandise FINALISTS: House of Luxury at Haile Oaks Jewelry FAVORITE LOCAL PHONE REPAIR SHOP

UBREAKIFIX

8181 NW 39th Lane, Gainesville, FL 32606 Your cell phone plays a huge part in keeping you connected, so when it breaks, it can leave you feeling a bit frustrated— and a bit lost. But don’t worry. Just bring it to the trusted team at uBreakiFix in North Gainesville and they’ll have it up and running for you again in no time. FAVORITE LOCAL TUXEDO SHOP

ALACHUA FLOWERS AND TUXEDO RENTALS

14520 Main St., Alachua, FL 32615 Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rentals offers name-brand tuxedo rentals like those from Michael Kors making them Our Town readers’ favorite spot for all their tuxedo needs be it weddings, proms or other formal affairs. FINALISTS: Men’s Warehouse 134 |

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FAVORITE LOCAL RESALE/ CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

SANDY’S SAVVY CHIC RESALE BOUTIQUE

4148 NW 13th St., Gainesville, FL 32609 The Sandy’s team is passionate about resale and providing an affordable shopping alternative to Gainesville residents and surrounding communities. They are proud to be part of Gainesville’s long history, supported by small businesses and giving material items a second life. FINALISTS: Valerie’s Loft Consignment Boutique Weecycle of Gainesville FAVORITE LOCAL STORE (OVERALL)

ALACHUA FLOWERS AND TUXEDO RENTALS

14520 Main St., Alachua, FL 32615 Weddings, proms or homecomings, whatever formal occasion you need a floral arrangement, tuxedo, dress or gown for, Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rentals has you covered and even offer name brands available for all shapes and sizes. FINALISTS: Suda’s Fitfoot Grow Thyme Hydroponics & Supply FAVORITE LOCAL THRIFT STORE

PLATO’S CLOSET

3441B W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 Plato’s Closet buys and sells gently used clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories for guys and girls in their teens and twenties. They have all the name brands and styles you love at up to 70 percent less than regular retail prices. FINALISTS: Weecycle Flashbacks Recycled Fashions

THANK YOU FOR VOTING!

FAVORITE LOCAL WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

DOWN TO EARTH

13005 SW 1st Road Suite 123, Newberry, FL 32669 Located in Tioga Town Center, Down to Earth Boutique offers everything from women’s apparel, jewelry and shoes to home furnishings, gifts and candles – a selection that’s given them the title of favorite women’s clothing store. FINALISTS: Malgorzata’s Flashbacks Recycled Fashions FAVORITE MOTORCYCLE SHOP

GAINESVILLE HARLEYDAVIDSON

4125 NW 97th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 Gainesville Harley-Davidson is a family-owned and operated dealership formed in 1993 by Ray and Gail Lytle. After moving to its current location in 1995, with continued dedication to customer satisfaction, the dealership grew in 2003 and again in 2015 with the addition of a pre-owned showroom and dyno tuning room.

FAVORITE SHOPPING DISTRICT

CELEBRATION POINTE

Call today to make an appointment.

5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. Suite 140, Gainesville, FL 32608 Celebration Pointe is a unique mixed-use development. The number one choice for Gainesville residents and tourists seeking a 24/7 experiential, walkable environment where shopping, dining, playing, living and working coexist. Celebration Pointe is a community where life moments are celebrated. FINALISTS: Shoppes at Thornebrook Village

14557 NW US HWY 441 ALACHUA, FL 32615 | 386-462-3962 23826 W US HWY 27 HIGH SPRINGS, FL 32643 | 386-454-3800

14-2076

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BOOK REVIEW TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner “PHASERS ON STUN: HOW THE MAKING (AND REMAKING) OF STAR TREK CHANGED THE WORLD”

written by Ryan Britt

C.2022, PLUME | $28.00 | 400 PAGES

EVERY DAY, YOU LIKE TO GO WHERE NO ONE HAS GONE BEFORE.

a small part in saving whales and in making fan conventions the huge events they are today. And yet, twenty years after Star Trek appeared on television, its creator was ready to walk away from it all for good... Judging solely by its subtitle, “Phasers on Stun” is a bit of a disappointment. Author Ryan Britt names a few national impacts left by the show and a handful of much-needed changes to the way series TV was produced, but... the world? Eh, not so much. But Trekkers won’t care one bit. Nor will Trekkies, the difference of which is high among the subjects Britt writes about, in a book that’s like combat to a Klingon. His knowledge and his insider’s sense springs from a lifelong obsession with the show and a career spent writing about it. Not only does that lead Britt to transport readers with his acumen, but he does so with tidbits of interesting information that are as abundant as Tribbles on a bridge. This is good for fans of all levels – even if, dang it, you’re a doctor, not a, well, whatever. If you love the shows, movies, and the entire cast, “Phasers on Stun” is the next book you want to read. Missing it would be highly illogical.

To the supermarket, to your bedroom down the hall, to your desk or workstation, even if you were just there, you like to make your journey a little bit different. Change is good, and in the new book “Phasers on Stun” by Ryan Britt, you’ll see how one iconic television show altered our entertainment. Gene Roddenberry was already experienced in TV writing. He had been working on a crime-drama series that he called “very bad shows” but that was fine. The crime drama wasn’t really his focus. No, his heart was on a science fiction series he thought could “reinvent what an episodic TV show could be.” A bit of stability in his work was icing on the cake. His first episode of this new show was loaded with issues, however. Majel Barrett, who would eventually become his wife, was his mistress then, says Britt, and casting her in what was a very major role was a mistake – not because of Barrett but because the character itself was all wrong and had to be almost completely revised. The network, NBC, gave him a choice-no-choice on that. What followed, beginning with the show’s next (second) episode, launched an almost-fifty-year phenomenon that included multiple movies, multiple spin-offs, a cartoon series, an anthology series, and a conference held annually. To accomplish that, Roddenberry did what no man had done before: he invited science fiction writers to submit their ideas; some were hired to write screenplays for their stories. Then he insisted on adding a Black female in a recurring role, as well as a man of Asian descent and the son of Russian immigrants. Roddenberry’s work left a lingering impact on NASA. It had

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

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Serving the youth of Alachua county for over 30 years

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Charity of the Month

CONGRATULATIONS

CHARITY OF THE MONTH WINNERS April 2021 Winner

May 2022 Winner

House of the Happy Cats and Dogs

Retirement Home for Horses at Mill Creek Farms

Jesse Orozco, Radiant’s Archer Road Branch Manager presented a $1,000 check to Robin T.

Kellen Snider, Radiant’s Alachua Branch Manger presented a $1,000 check to Mary Gregory and Paul Gregory.

The House of the Happy Cat is a nonprofit, no kill 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the care, rehabilitation, and adoption of domestic animals. Staffed by volunteers they have a goal of removing animals from homeless and dangerous situations and provide medical care & rehabilitation as neccessary. They also strive to find secure adoptive homes for the animals.

RHH at Mill Creek Farms provides lifetime care rescured horses as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks. When a horse arrives they receive veterinary care, special feeding and attention, and weekly groomings. They will never be ridden or worked again can roam freely and live out their life at Mill Creek Farms in tranquility.

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Facebook.com/RadiantCU

“We feel the best way to find and recognize local charities in our community is by asking you!” About Radiant Credit Union’s Charity of the Month Program... The program was started in 2013 as a way for our communities to recognize their favorite local charities. Since that time Radiant has donated thousands of dollars to charities in our area. Each month Radiant awards the winning charity $1,000. All 501c3 charities headquartered in Radiant’s service area (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee or Union County in Florida) are eligible to enter the contest. Entering your favorite charity is easy and you could win $100 if the charity you entered wins. For complete rules and step-by-step instructions go to RadiantCU.org/CharityOfTheMonth.

School of the Month April 2022 Recipient

May 2022 Recipient

Ochwilla Elementary, Hawthorne

Newberry Elementary School Newberry

Traci Smith, Radiant Credit Union’s Hawthorne Branch Manager presented the check to Principal Beth Leary.

Kellen Snider, Radiant Credit Union’s Alachua Branch Manager and Tracy Coward, Reginal Director of Member Experience presented the check to Principal Vicki McAlhany.

Presented by Radiant Credit Union and Our Town Family of Magazines

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HOLDING ON TO HISTORY Gainesville DAR Chapter Celebrates

100 Years

n April 2, members of the Daughters of the American Revolution’s (DAR) Gainesville Chapter and guests from nearby regional divisions – some dazzling in 1920’s attire, others dressed in the style of their great ancestors – gathered at the Gateway Grand Best Western Hotel to celebrate a century of the Gainesville organization’s preservation efforts, community involvement and unwavering dedication to the nation’s history. The National Society for the Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 as a nonprofit, volunteer, women’s service organization that’s mission is centered on promoting patriotism and preserving American history by uniting women with direct ties to veterans from the American Revolution. The National Society acts as an umbrella corporation that oversees the state societies and individual regional chapters – with Gainesville’s group reaching the impressive milestone of 100 years as a fellowship. “None of us would be members of DAR if we did not have a direct lineage to ancestors who were veterans of the American Revolution and one of the things that we are most proud about being members of DAR is that our ancestors helped to establish this new, young country so that our government, with the constitution, could become a constitutional republic,” said Rosalyn “Roz” Miller, who has been a member of the Gainesville DAR chapter for 60 years and served as the Event PR and Promotion Coordinator for the 100th-anniversary celebration. S T O R Y B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y M I C H A E L E A D DY

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AMERICAN ANCESTRY

Seated – L to R: Susan Holt Vice President General & Honorary Utah State Regent, Susan Holt Vice President General & Honorary Utah State Regent, Jean Mann Honorary FL State Regent, Past Vice President General & Past Organizing Secretary General, MariHelen Wheeler Chair Alachua County Board of Commission. Standing – L to R: Ginger Poffenberger Honorary Vice President General & Honorary FL State Regent, Debbie Duay, Florida State Regent, Nancy Briles, Gainesville Chapter Regent.

Congresswoman Kat Cammack, Florida District 3 and Roz Miller, Honorary Chapter Regent.

Row 1 – Honorary Chapter Regents: Monica Douglas, Roz Miller, Dot Hope. Row 2 – Nancy Briles, current regent; Honorary Chapter Regents Janet Messer, Annete Jones, Debbie Duay, Florida State Regent; Honorary Chapter Regents; Pam Ellis, Kay Hall.

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GAINESVILLE DAR >> 100 YEAR CELEBRATION L to R: Carolyn Ketchel, Florida State Historian, Ginger Poffenberger Honorary Vice President General & Honorary FL State Regent, Susan Holt Vice President General & Honorary Utah State Regent.

Miller, who was a past chapter regent; served in a leadership league must meet the same criteria: be at least 18 years old and capacity at both the state and national level; and actively went have documented proof of direct lineage to someone from the to Washington D.C. to participate in the National conventions, American Revolution. Of course, tracing one’s ancestors back to initially joined the DAR along with her two sisters after having the late 1700s can be overwhelming, to say the least, which is why every chapter been a member has a chapter of the CAR – registrar to the Children of help prospecthe American tive members Revolution, sort through which she over 200 years’ credits for worth of docudeveloping and ments like birth solidifying her c e r t i f i c a t e s, patriotism. marriage cer“I love this tificates, death country; I am certificates red, white and and cemetery blue to the information. core; and I am “My main just so privL to R: Nancy Briles, Gainesville Chapter Regent, Ginger Poffenberger Honorary Vice President General & Honorary FL State Regent, Susan Holt Vice President General & Honorary Utah State Regent, Jean responsibility ileged that I Mann Honorary FL State Regent, Past Vice President General & Past Organizing Secretary General, Sue as chapter regam a member C Bratton, Honorary FL State Regent & Past Vice President General, Karen Carbonneau, Florida State istrar is to help o f DA R a n d Chaplain, Carolyn Ketchel, Florida State Historian. the applicants especially of our chapter,” Miller said to the packed room of fellow DAR who want to join,” said Cherry May, who has had the role of chapter registrar for the last four or five years. “We’re a lineage members and specials guests during her ceremonial speech. society, which means they have to prove a blood lineage back Miller’s transition into the DAR was relatively smooth due to her CAR background, but each member admitted into the to an American patriot, and so that means getting documents, 144 |

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GAINESVILLE DAR >> 100 YEAR CELEBRATION

Annetta Mitchell, 100-year-old member of the Gainesville Chapter With District 8, Florida State Senator, Keith Perry

which are required by DAR to prove that and a lot of people don’t know too much about researching and that’s what the registrar does is to help them fill out an application.” May, who has been with the DAR for nearly three decades, initially joined to build upon her love for history and curiosity about finding one’s roots.

and the National Genealogical Society and aims to eventually become a board-certified genealogist. “The past is the building block to the future and if you lose the past you lose those building blocks and then the future crumbles because it doesn’t have anything to stand on,” she said. To uphold the Gainesville chapter’s legacy for future gener-

“What we want people to know is that it’s fun to learn and to share the information that we’ve acquired about our past and to keep it growing.” “I was actually a mathematics professor, but I’m a great believer in history and I believe in knowing one’s own history, where you come from and who your family was and how they prepared the way for you and what you’ve inherited from them and so that’s a large part of this organization,” she said. “I just believe in the preservation of history and patriotism and all the things that organization happens to stand for so it kind of meets all my goals in a sense.” Historic preservation is at the forefront of the DAR’s beliefs, which is what first attracted the current chapter historian and co-chair of the 100th year celebration, Pam Ellis, to the sisterhood. “I strongly believe in preserving – at that time mostly documents – but it goes into buildings and other things,” said Ellis, who has gone on to complete genealogy classes with both the DAR

ations, designated historians like Ellis keep meticulous records of monthly meetings, important events and the nonprofits’ diverse community efforts. “It’s not big, huge things that the DAR does; it’s a lot of little things. It’s simply going to the Alachua festival and we’ve given out children’s books for years; we’ve gone to different things where we’ve read children’s books to them; we’ve gone out and given literature and we talk about preserving things,” Ellis said. “What we’re doing is really nothing super big, it’s all those little things for our community that makes a difference and it’s just an easy, friendly organization to join to be able to help and give back to your community.” From participating in Wreaths Across America, cemetery cleanups and hosting events that commemorate Flag Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day to celebrating constitution JULY/AUG 2022

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GAINESVILLE DAR >> 100 YEAR CELEBRATION Gainesville DAR members and guests — some dressed in 1920s attire to mark the local organization’s 100th anniversary — check into the celebratory event at the Best Western Gateway Grand.

week and attending naturalization court to welcome new citizens into the country, members of the DAR find any way they can to express their appreciation for both veterans and the nation as a whole. “We honor those who came before us in different actions and projects that we do,” said Nancy Briles, who is the Gainesville chapter’s current regent. “We’re a group of women that believe in historical preservation, education and patriotism and don’t mind getting our fingers dirty. We get in there.” As chapter regent, Briles appointed eight previous chapter regents – including Miller, May and Ellis – to form a planning committee in preparation for the 100-year landmark event. After almost a year of preparation, on April 2, that hard work culminated in a memorable afternoon filled with speeches from Florida State Regent Debbie Duay, Congresswoman Kat Cammack and Senator Keith Perry; a champagne toast to honor the occasion; a catered lunch and the reveal of the repaired and restored Gainesville charter that started it all a century ago. With 100 years now on the books, the road to the 200th anniversary can begin. “What we want people to know is that it’s fun to learn and to share the information that we’ve acquired about our past and to keep it growing,” Briles said. “I think anybody that has any kind of interest in their family history and heritage should even inquire and start doing the research.” L to R: Sue Bratton, Honorary Florida State DAR Regent stands next to Roz Miller, Honorary Gainesville Chapter Regent during the DAR Gainesville Chapter’s 100th Anniversary celebration.

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To learn more about the DAR and its overall mission or to begin a personal ancestral journey to becoming a member, visit their website at dar.org.

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ART FROM THE HEART

PAINTING FOR THE PITS AND THE PLANET

Samm Wehman Art W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U CCO L A

amm Wehman Epstein has always felt a spiritual connection toward various species of animals, whether it’s in the companionship of her dogs; her introverted, hermit-like personality comparative to that of a crab or her fruit-packed diet, which mirrors the appetite of a bat, but out of all the animals she’s painted, worked with or read about, it’s

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the monarch butterfly that she identifies with the most: bright and colorful; free-spirited; a worldly traveler and an expert in facing a momentous, life-changing transformation. “As soon as I was old enough to hold a crayon, I was constantly drawing, making stuff – pretty much always dogs; I was always drawing dogs,” Epstein recalled.

LOCAL ARTIST >> SAMM WEHMAN

While pit bulls still capture her heart and inspired her fundraising effort, Sam Wehman (Right) has expanded her artistic interests to include everything from the large and gentle manatee to the small, bright monarch.

Despite her immediate and fixed fascination with art paired with her natural talent for painting, a portfolio review encouraging her to expand beyond her muse of dogs swiftly extinguished her aspirations to attend art school. Instead, she opted to find an avenue that correlated with her passion for animals. In the midst of finding herself and forging a sense of direction while studying for a future career in wildlife conservation, education and research, Epstein discovered her leopard gecko needed surgery. As a broke college student, she leaned on her resourceful disposition and her creative background to raise funds for her gecko’s medical bills by selling handmade duct tape roses for Valentine’s Day along with other unconventional creations. “That made me realize, ‘wow, I can make stuff and make a side hustle doing this’ and that sort of inspired it and I remember I was in college so I didn’t have my paints with me so I was literally using nail polish to paint on recycled cardboard and I would cut out pieces from my soy milk containers and make ornaments,” she said. After graduating, Epstein reined in her prior endeavors and began her journey working with different animal rescue organizations and wildlife conservation efforts – the latter of which introduced her to the charismatic monarch. Vibrant orange with black detailing and flecks of white, the monarch is

an insect beloved by many and one that reminded Epstein of her late father who was the driving force behind her love of nature and filled her childhood with memories of building backyard ponds and gardens; catching turtles and raising butterflies. She was reminded of these fluttering critters much later when the opportunity to secure her dream job fell through. Faced with heartbreak, rather than give up on her pursuit or stay rooted in the position she was in, she decided to undergo a career metamorphosis and become a full-time artist with mindfulness of the environment at the forefront of her work. “As an environmentalist, being an artist can – it doesn’t have to be – but it can be so wasteful, just like anything else on the planet, you know, like all this stuff that gets produced and goes through production and so much waste is made out of it that I wanted to do the opposite, I wanted to make an impact by lessening waste so by taking garbage, making it into art or painting in ways that lessen that impact it just makes me feel more inspired and it makes me produce more creative energy,” she said. Motivated by her MacGyver-like skills back in college, Epstein built notoriety for turning trash into treasure – using everything from old fan blades and hubcaps to reclaimed wood and repurposed cardboard to showcase her work. JULY/AUG 2022

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LOCAL ARTIST >> SAMM WEHMAN “For a lot of my custom orders I do still paint on traditional canvas and such but a lot of my original pieces that I just paint from the heart are literally painted on repurposed trash, as much as that makes it sound bad, it’s really a good thing because it makes them very rustic, unique and kind of a different vibe and honestly people love them,” she said. Apart from using mostly salvaged canvases, Epstein’s pieces are easy to recognize by her bright color palette and a nod to her high-flying guide. “People always ask why there are so many butterflies in my personal art that I do and that’s because out of all the species I’ve worked with, I connected the most with them,” she said. “I sneak butterflies into almost all my paintings so when I paint manatees or I paint bats or I paint anything that’s like one of our local, well-known species here, you’ll see monarch butterflies hidden in all my work.” With her environmental concerns in check and a recurring homage to the insect that encouraged her to spread her wings, Epstein began using her art business to fulfill her desire to help animals. “I decided to start doing paint your pet parties and the first 150 |

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one I did was for Plenty of Pit Bulls rescue, which is a rescue that I have worked closely with and I had it at my house and it was sort of our trial party just to see how it would go and I believe at that one we might have raised maybe just a little under $400,” she said. “It was a community event that was bringing like-minded people together. Everyone was there because they love their pets and because they love rescue animals and they wanted to make an impact as well and I fell in love with doing it.” With the completion of that first campaign in March 2018, Painting with a Pit was born – operating on the basis of teaching community members how to paint their pet or favorite animal with 100 percent of the proceeds donated to a specific animal nonprofit. “We’ve done such a variety of different events and I’ve hosted them at different venues and local businesses have been really, really generous to work with me and donate the space like EarthWise Pet in Jonesville has been a great one along with EarthWise Pet in Gainesville – I know both the owners and they’re fantastic and they both have hosted events – and I’ve also done events for Lubee Bat Conservancy – they do a lot of work with bats all around the world and I love them and have been working with them for

LOCAL ARTIST >> SAMM WEHMAN

“I love animals of all shapes and sizes, breeds, species, but I am just a big pit bull rescue mom. All of my dogs are pit bulls and I think in a rescue it’s just a big theme – especially in our community we’re very lucky here that people are more receptive and open to looking at pit bulls in a positive way, but that was part of what I wanted to start.” several years as well,” Epstein said. To help prevent confusion, the Painting with a Pit moniker is often changed to fit each themed event whether it’s for bat-related happenings at Lubee Bat Conservancy or pig parties with Peacefield Farm Sanctuary. Nevertheless, the Painting with a Pit name encompasses all of Epstein’s charitable efforts – a name that honors her first fundraiser with Plenty of Pit Bulls and her unwavering love for her own pups. “I love animals of all shapes and sizes, breeds, species, but I am just a big pit bull rescue mom. All of my dogs are pit bulls and I think in a rescue it’s just a big theme – especially in our community we’re very lucky here that people are more receptive and open to looking at pit bulls in a positive way, but that was part of what I wanted to start,” she said. “Also for me as an artist, I’m always painting with pits because my studio assistants are my three pit bulls and they’re always with me in my home studio so that was part of the theme as well, you know, that I just paint with pits.” To date, Epstein has hosted 23 paint-your-pet workshops, which in total have raised just under $20,000 for different animal welfare organizations. “Most of my events are $40 a person, but I want people to know that literally, every penny is going to that rescue. They don’t have to sit there and wonder ‘oh, how much of the proceeds are actually going to be donated.’ So, I ensure them by the end of the

night of the event this is how many dollars were raised thanks to all of you guys,” she said. “What started in the beginning as, you know, being $300 here, a little under $400 here, a lot of events I do now get into the thousands because I’ve just been doing larger classes.” While pursuing her art full time came with an air of uncertainty, it was a shift that proved beneficial threefold. In doing so, Epstein has been able to use her art to help hundreds of animals, encourage an appreciation for art in those that have come to her classes and she rediscovered a missing piece of herself. “Every time I do an event and especially now that I’ve gotten more comfortable and confidant with teaching is when people leave and they’re just so happy whether their pet portrait in their eyes came out perfect or not, they know that that’s not what it’s about, they enjoy the experience with me, they enjoy the experience getting to help promote animals,” she said. “I think the fact that I can inspire people in multiple aspects and not just ‘hey, you came and you made a monetary donation that might have saved an animal’s life, but you have found a new aspect of yourself’ and that to me is what being an artist is all about – that I can inspire people.” To find out about upcoming Painting with a Pit events, follow the nonprofit’s Facebook page at facebook.com/paintingwithapit or to learn more about Samm Epstein’s personal art, visit her website at sammwehmanart.com. JULY/AUG 2022

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SPOTLIGHT

RESCUE ANIMAL ADOPTIONS

Furever Friends

TRIXX, BUNNY (BUGS), AND LISA

Hi! My name’s Trixx – yes, like the bunny from the cereal box, but I’m much cuter thanks to my black ears and star-shaped mark around my nose.

guess I can be a little sassy sometimes, whereas Bunny gravitates to people, enjoys being touched or brushed and has a naturally calm demeanor. But somehow, we fit and I knew we were meant to be together. Lisa decided to foster me for three weeks to see how I would do in Bunny’s territory, but I knew she was ready to adopt me right then and there. Just as I predicted, Bunny and I only grew closer and I soon became a permanent member of the family! Nowadays, Bunny and I spend our days snacking on bananas, running through the cat tunnel our mom got us or just napping under the bed. Of course, we don’t do – everything – together. I also love strawberries and sprawling out on rugs while he goes to get affection from our parents. I will say one of my favorite activities is when our dad plays us music-for-rabbits videos or bird chirping soundtracks on YouTube. I can’t put my foot on it, but I find it very relaxing. My mom, who works as the science curriculum specialist for the Alachua school board, always says she loves to watch Bunny and I eat together – especially if it consists of some nice romaine lettuce. I’m not sure what this means exactly, but she says we chomp the lettuce together like Lady & the Tramp. All I know is that it sure is tasty! I won’t lie, I was pretty sad when my first adoption didn’t work out, but I’m so glad I found my way to the nice people over at the Gainesville Rabbit Rescue and to my new parents and Bunny. It feels different than before and now I truly feel that I’ve found my furever home. I only hope all the bunny friends I made back at the bunny barn find their hoppily ever after too! If you’re interested in adopting a rabbit from Gainesville Rabbit Rescue, visit their website at gainesvillerabbitrescue.org.

Before I begin, my mom, Lisa Sauberan, wanted me to clarify that it was my dad who chose my name – he also named my bunny brother, Bugs, but we usually just call him Bunny. The first time I was adopted was last Easter, but the family I was staying with quickly changed their minds. I was later found at a hardware store and brought to the Gainesville Rabbit Rescue where I waited to find my real hoppily ever after. One day Lisa arrived looking for a companion for her bunny, Bunny. Bunny went on three playdates before we got to actually meet nose to nose, but I was so glad none of them worked out because I knew we would become best friends. We were like yin and yang both in looks and personalities. I have short white fur with black accents while Bunny is a fluffy white Lionhead. I’m keen to simply spend time with my favorite bun, keep to myself and well, okay, I

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.

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