Our Town July/August 2025 (Gainesville)

Celebrate Your FAVORITES this Summer!

There are many moments that make life in Our Town great — community events, live entertainment, local nature, and mouthwatering bites around every corner. Explore the stories we’ve hand-picked for this special issue!

The Great Outdoors Restaurant specializes in hand-selected steaks, fresh seafood, signature entrée salads, homemade soups and desserts. It's a perfect place to grab a cold, local craft beer after hitting the springs all day or for your family gathering. The amazing patio features luxurious outdoor seating with live music every Friday and Saturday night from some of the area's best known bands. From craft cocktails to specialty desserts the Great Outdoors Restaurant Invites you to make the short drive to High Springs!

ALWAYS AMAZING, THE FILET IS ALWAYS THE BEST , BE SURE AND ASK WHAT THE SPECIAL IS THE CHEF ALWAYS HAS A SURPRISE ON SATURDAY NIGHTS , THE MUSIC IS ALWAYS GREAT HERE AND WE ENJOY TAKING THE WHOLE FAMILY OUT FOR DINNER, WORTH EVERY DOLLAR TO EAT HERE AND ENJOY THE BAND .- RONNIE PECK

ON THE COVER

>> CELEBRATE YOUR FAVORITES! THIS ISSUE IS FILLED WITH STORIES THAT HIGHLIGHT SOME OF OUR FAVORITE TOPICS: ANIMALS & PETS, LOCAL HISTORY, FARMFRESH FOOD, SEASONAL RECIPES, AND STUNNING NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY. BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE RESULTS OF THE 2025 OUR TOWN FAVORITES AWARDS, VOTED ON BY YOU! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE WINNERS AND FINALISTS!

16

POKÉMON GO AT UF

What began with a few flyers and a bold idea has grown into an official UF club nearly 1,000 members strong—bringing students together through Pokémon GO and the joy of shared adventures.

75

OUR TOWN FAVORITES!

Check out the Winners and Finalists of the 2025 Our Town Favorites—a true community choice award! This year, our community showed incredible enthusiasm, casting 156,000 votes!

CONTENTS

22 // RECIPE WONDERS

Celebrate summer with this cool, colorful cake—an easy, customizable, red-whiteand-blue dessert perfect for patriotic picnics.

27 // BOOKED AND BOUND

Discover some of our town’s indie bookstores—each offering character, community, and charm far beyond the books on their shelves.

30 // FROM THE TEACHER’S TOOLBOX

Splash into summer! Discover how water play promotes motor skills, emotional development, and learning for all ages.

37 // A DIFFERENT BREED

A vet clinic reimagines animal care with compassion, collaboration, and comfort— for pets, their people, and practitioners alike.

41 // RED, WHITE, AND BLUE

Explore the origins and evolution of America’s Independence Day—from revolutionary beginnings to modern-day traditions and patriotism.

47 // GROWING IN GAINESVILLE

Meet the growers behind Gainesville’s vibrant farmers market, where every tent tells a story of resilience and community.

56 // LEARNING TO HOVER

A photo essay by Michael Eaddy, capturing the beauty of hummingbirds.

67 // INTO THE EMERALD ISLE

From dramatic cliffs to cozy pubs, discover why Ireland’s magic, myths, and charm continue to enchant travelers worldwide.

71 // A NEW ERA FOR FLMNH

The Florida Museum of Natural History prepares for a bold 2026 reopening— blending classic exhibits with new, hands-on science adventures for all.

119 // STAY COOL

Beat the heat with smart, refreshing tips to stay safe, hydrated, and cool all summer long.

125 // CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY

Meet the visionary entrepreneurs who helped transform Gainesville into a booming industrial hub in Florida’s early economic history.

PUBLISHER

Charlie Delatorre

PRODUCTION DIRECTORS

Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp, Sandra Schultz

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Ericka Winter Pauley editor@towerpublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kaitlin Applegate, Donna Bonnell, Dana Bryan, Ailish Coughlin, Summer Jarro, Dr. Kaytie Miliken, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Crystal Smith, Joanna Grey Talbot, Cynthia Wonders-Winterrowd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Eaddy, Loegan Jarro

INTERNS

Delaney Starling, Ailish Coughlin

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com

Charles Rickie charlesr@towerpublications.com

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 JULY/AUGUST issue are due by June 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

Family Favorites

Each summer, our Favorites Issue gives us the chance to shine a spotlight on the people, places, and businesses that make our community so special. This year, the enthusiasm was truly unmatched—a record-breaking 165,000 votes were cast in the 2025 Our Town Favorites! Thank you to everyone who voted, and a heartfelt congratulations to all of our winners and finalists. Your passion and dedication are what make this area thrive.

Speaking of favorites, my husband and I have recently discovered a new one of our own: traveling with our 1.5-year-old daughter, Phoebe.

We just returned from her very first flight—a trip to Hartford, Connecticut, followed by a scenic drive to the Berkshires of Massachusetts to attend a weekend at Tanglewood, where we joined Grammie, Pop-Pop, Auntie and Uncle, and Phoebe’s twin cousins. It was one of those magical weekends where time seems to pause and your heart quietly overflows.

To our relief (and awe), Phoebe was a total rockstar. She loved the airport—escalators, announcements, airplanes—every detail fascinated her. And under the stars at Tanglewood, she got to hear James Taylor perform live. Not a bad way to kick off toddlerhood!

But if you ask Phoebe, her favorite part of the trip wasn’t the music or the flight—it was staying in the hotel. Specifically, all three of us tucked into one cozy room at a historic inn. Every morning, after her first stirrings, my husband would scoop her from her pack-and-play and into our bed, where we’d snuggle up and often fall back asleep together. No distractions, no deadlines—just us. Those quiet mornings have become one of our most treasured parts of travel.

So while we honor your Our Town Favorites this issue, I’m holding tight to a few of mine: slowing down, staying close, and seeing the wonder of the world through my daughter’s eyes.

Here’s to the little joys—and the big memories!

Ericka Winter Pauley, Editor-In-Chief

CONTRIBUTORS

KAITLIN APPLEGATE

is a Newberry local, UF alumna, and kitchen mad scientist. When she’s not writing stories or procrastinating writing, she loves catching a play at the Hipp or sipping on a Black and White Freezer from Coffee Culture. kaitlinapplegatewrites@gmail.com

DANA BRYAN

is a journalism graduate from the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she loves to read, write amateur code and watch television. itsdanabryan@gmail.com

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

ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ

is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she likes to discover new music, learn new languages and play cozy video games.   arodriguez34@ufl.edu

JOANNA GREY TALBOT

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

DONNA BONNELL

became the author of her column, Embracing Life, more than 20 years 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

AILISH COUGHLIN

is a senior journalist at the University of Florida who enjoys reporting and producing local news. Outside of writing, they enjoy live music, antiquing, nature trails, and day trips to the beach. ailish@coughlin.net

DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN

is a dedicated education consultant empowering parents and teachers with practical, research-based strategies and resources. Born and raised in Alachua County, she is a proud UF graduate. kaytlynn.milliken@gmail.com

DELANEY STARLING

is a freelance writer and a senior journalism major at the University of Florida. When she’s not writing, you can find Delaney pursuing her passion for music, traveling and extreme outdoor activities. delaney.starling@ufl.edu

CYNTHIA WONDERS WINTERROWD

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

Turning Houses into Homes With Heart

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Before and After

POKÉMON GO AT UF

Finding Real-World Community in a Virtual World of Pokémon

There are two things UF student Sofia Hueller loves: meeting new people and the mobile game Pokémon GO. Fortunately, she never had to separate the two.

In just over a year, Hueller has overseen the growth of a community far beyond what she imagined. As president of the UF Pokémon GO Players organization, she helped turn a casual group of players into a recognized UF student organization. But before gaining official status in August 2023, it all started with an idea, a Discord server, and a few QR code flyers.

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ

Pokémon GO, a free mobile game launched in 2016, utilizes GPS and augmented reality to enable players to catch and battle Pokémon in real-world locations. While the game has many mechanics, the core revolves around catching Pokémon and teaming up to complete raids— multiplayer battles against powerful Pokémon that appear at virtual “gyms.”

Hueller remembers the 2016 craze but says her interest didn’t fully take off until high school. At the time, she played with friends, but as she entered college and those friends moved on, she found herself wondering how to keep playing.

“My friends weren’t really into it any more, and I was like, ‘Who am I sup posed to play Pokémon with?’” Hueller said.

She hadn’t planned on starting a club, but in October 2022, she saw a student posting creative dating flyers with QR codes around campus. Inspiration struck.

“I went to the Reitz Printing Lab, printed out a bunch of QR codes that said, ‘Pokémon GO club, Discord, scan to join!’” Hueller said.

She posted them near the Plaza of the Americas and Matherly Hall, then waited. Slowly but surely, usernames began appearing in the Discord server. She messaged a few to see if they’d want to meet up and do raids together.

Then came a turning point: someone shared the club’s QR code on UF’s official Snapchat Campus Story, which is visible to all email-verified University of Florida students. Thousands saw it, and many scanned it.

Soon, the Discord server passed 100 members.

Kyle Marie, now the club’s secretary, was one of the first to join. Like Hueller, he watched the group grow rapidly.

“I expected it to a degree,” Marie said. “I didn’t,” Hueller jumped in. “I didn’t think 500 people would join.”

As of this spring, the server has surpassed 900 members. In Fall 2023, with membership booming, Hueller made the next move: applying for official recognition as a UF student organization.

“We just had to do paperwork, and it was a hassle, it was a lot, but we got through it. We persevered!” she said, throwing her arms up in triumph.

Still, she credits her team for helping make it happen. “They’re the best,” she said, referring to her officers: Vice President Jillian Mersky, Treasurer Kayla Ray, Secretary Kyle Marie, Social Media Manager Arwen Dowers, and Discord Moderator Levi Jones.

She ensured the implementation of a system of member elections to guarantee the club’s continued existence long after the original team stepped down.

Initially, the group was small, never exceeding six people. However, she was excited that anyone had shown up at all. She even began scouting potential players in real life, looking for students tapping furiously on their phones near known gym locations.

Once official, the club hit its stride. One of its most popular recurring events is Community Day, where a featured Pokémon spawns more often, and shiny versions are more likely to appear. Players complete tasks to earn rewards, and some purchase a ticket for additional perks.

The club typically meets near the Reitz breezeway, outside Subway.

Hueller said these events are a chance to bond over more than just the game. “People get to talk about things other than Pokémon GO,” she said. One moment that stood out to her was watching a group of guys talk football instead of game strategy. “That touched me,” she said, realizing she’d helped build more than just a gaming group.

But the club’s most significant event by far was Mega Garchomp Raid Day on November 11. From 2 to 5 p.m., Hueller led a group of about 80 players across campus, from Turlington Plaza to Plaza of the Americas to the Infirmary, tackling raid after raid.

“We were blocking streets by accident,” Marie said. “There were 80 people in a line just trying to walk.”

Hueller remembered apologizing to drivers as the group crossed intersections. She says her team was essential in keeping things organized and fun.

For Marie, that day was when the diversity of the community became especially clear.

“That’s when you start seeing demographics,” he said. “It’s everyone; there are old people, young people, and every ethnicity. It doesn’t matter who you are; it’s just about Pokémon.”

It helps that Pokémon is the highest-grossing media franchise of all time, with over $100 billion in revenue, surpassing Star Wars and Mickey Mouse. The brand spans trading cards, console games, mobile apps, shows, and merchandise.

“It’s crazy how universal it is,” Hueller said. “And no one really realizes it.”

Within Pokémon GO, everyone plays differently. Hueller says her favorite part is collecting.

“I get emotionally attached to some of my Pokémon,” she said. “I like collecting cute ones.”

Marie’s reason for playing is more specific: “Digletts,” he said. “Like how people are obsessed with Pikachu, I just want Diglett. That’s the reason I joined; I just knew that people had Digletts.”

Whether someone’s in it for the battles, the collecting, or the connections, Hueller says there’s a place for everyone in the club. Marie agrees: “It’s just going to keep growing, even after we’re both gone.”

After nearly three years of leadership, Hueller stepped down from her role as president to focus on her senior year and her commitments to her sorority. In Spring 2025, club elections were held, and Vice President Jillian Mersky was elected president.

Though she no longer holds an official title, Hueller still attends most events and remains an active member. The foundation she helped build continues to thrive.

“When I first came to UF, I wanted to be able to say that I left some sort of legacy here,” Hueller said. “Did I think it was going to be a Pokémon GO club? No. Am I proud that it’s a Pokémon GO club? Yes.”

UF’s Pokémon GO club connects students through collaborative missions, campus meetups, and a shared passion for play.

RECIPE WONDERS Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd’s

FOOD STYLING

& PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICKA WINTER PAULEY

PATRIOTIC POKE CAKE

“In the Good Old Summertime” – some of the first things that come to mind are picnics and 4th of July fireworks! I’m sure most of us Americans will find ourselves at a park with family and friends in July, and this recipe for Poke Cake will be a colorful and patriotic dessert to put on the picnic table. You may already have tried Poke Cake, but did you know you can adjust the flavoring and colors to accommodate any holiday or event?

For the 4th of July, we always prepare it with strawberry or raspberry Jell-o and top it off with whipped topping, blueberries, and cut-up strawberries. This gives it the “Red, White, and Blue” Americana theme we always look for on summer picnics. Other options include using orange-flavored Jell-O with orange soda, cherry Jell-O with cherry soda, or use your imagination! 7-up can be used with flavors of Jell-O that do not have a corresponding flavored soda. The possibilities are endless! You will find nothing beats this cake, so cool and delicious, on a warm summer day. It seems to melt in your mouth!

POKE CAKE

1 boxed white cake mix

2 (3 oz.) boxes of strawberry or raspberry Jell-O

2 cups strawberry soda

1 (12 oz.) container of Cool Whip

*Fresh strawberries, cut-up

*Fresh blueberries

METHOD:

Select a boxed cake mix; white cake is preferred. Prepare according to the directions on the box. Meanwhile, place two boxes of Jell-O in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add two cups of boiling water, stirring until dissolved. Then add two cups of chilled soda in place of the water indicated on the box. Set aside without refrigerating. When the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately use a large fork to “poke” holes all throughout the cake.

Carefully ladle the warm Jell-O mixture over the top of the cake allowing the Jell-O to drizzle down through the holes that were poked through the cake. This will make a pretty pattern of color inside the white cake.

Cover the cake with foil or plastic wrap and immediately place in the refrigerator. Chill at least overnight. Keep refrigerated or in a cooler until ready to serve for the best flavor.

Your guests will surely say “Ooh, Ahh” even before the fireworks start!

*This cake is even better when made ahead of time and kept for up to a week in the refrigerator. On your picnic day, top with Cool Whip and decorate with strawberries and blueberries.

Booked and Bound

WRITTEN BY AILISH COUGHLIN

IN A CITY KNOWN FOR ITS INDEPENDENT SPIRIT AND CREATIVE PULSE, GAINESVILLE’S ALTERNATIVE BOOKSTORES OFFER MORE THAN JUST BOOKS—THEY OFFER CHARACTER, COMFORT, AND CONNECTION.

Tucked into corners across town, each store has its own rhythm and reason for being. From cozy classics to curated collections, these shops invite readers to slow down, dig deep, and discover something unexpected.

BOOK GALLERY WEST

4121 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville, 32605

In northwest Gainesville, one bookstore has stood the test of time. Book Gallery West first opened its doors in 1983 and was taken over by its current owner, Jan Fronk, in the early 2000s. Since then, this secondhand bookstore has remained a beloved staple in the community.

Walking in, customers are greeted by the gentle sounds of wind chimes and soft classical music. Shelves filled with books, gifts, and knick-knacks invite visitors to browse and explore. Stacks of books line the front windows, only to rise even higher once inside. Genres span from science and nonfiction to fiction, romance, horror, and everything in between. The store offers something for every kind of reader.

Book Gallery West operates on a consignment model, meaning community members can sell their books to help stock the shelves. Unsold books may be returned to the seller or donated to Friends of the Library. This secondhand model fosters community involvement and creates a constantly evolving, one-of-a-kind collection.

Books come from all walks of life and eras, making every visit a unique experience. Fronk enhances the store’s warm atmosphere by prioritizing the hiring of kind, passionate employees who build relationships with customers, encouraging them to return again.

THREE INDIE GAINESVILLE BOOKSTORES OFFER CHARM, CHARACTER, AND A DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY

BOOK NOOKS

In addition to its impressive book selection, Book Gallery West is also renowned for its charming gift offerings. Stuffed animals, locally sourced jams, bookmarks, and toys adorn the store, contributing to its cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Book Gallery West is a bookstore for everyone, but with its whimsical gifts, vibrant collection, and occasional sweet treats, families in particular feel right at home.

BOOKS AND MUSIC, WORMHOLE

1801 NE 23rd Ave, Gainesville, 32609

Walking into Wormhole, dim, warm yellow lighting casts shadows across walls lined with stacked books, interspersed with art displays and records. The store’s maximalist presentation is balanced by a calm atmosphere and the scent of incense blending with the smell of old books.

Wormhole is a physical manifestation of owner Phil Wyrm’s passion for books. He runs the store alone throughout the week, except for the days he travels to North Carolina. The bookstore serves as an oasis of curiosity.

Wyrm has made his collection through the art of trading. He says the practice of interaction and upcycling the books is important to him, and it allows for a diverse collection.

Books are stacked to the ceiling—organized yet overwhelming—making this bookstore ideal for those passionate about eclectic collections. While Wormhole offers classic fiction and nonfiction subgenres, tucked away in various nooks are books on religious analysis, hidden figures, and niche topics that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

The relaxed atmosphere is complemented by low prices and an extensive music collection. Records and CDs are organized near the front, encouraging customers to explore the diverse mix and discover what Wyrm may have traded in recently. Wormhole is a must-see, oneof-a-kind bookstore in Gainesville.

THE LYNX

601 S Main St, Gainesville, 32601

The grand pink mural painted across the outside of The Lynx is just as vibrant and inviting as the inside of the store.

Tables piled with books, pins, and stickers fill the center of the room. The fresh scent of new books mingles with the air as black shelving lining the entire store bursts with the latest collections. Handwritten cards hang from the shelves, offering summaries and personalized recommendations to guide readers.

A Gainesville staple since 1983, Book Gallery West offers secondhand treasures, cozy gifts, and a warm community vibe. Across town, Wormhole adds its own eclectic charm to the city’s indie book scene.

Venturing deeper, the rich aroma of books blends with the roasted coffee beans from the café bar in the back.

The dark, earth-toned interior design transports visitors into a dark academia-inspired setting. Plush upholstered seating invites guests to settle in, while rocking chairs on the outdoor deck offer a cozy spot to relax. The Lynx is undeniably one of the coziest spaces in Gainesville.

Though it has only been open a little more than a year, The Lynx has quickly become a local favorite thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, thoughtfully curated collection, and deep community involvement.

Each month, the bookstore hosts author signings, book clubs, and social events to connect readers and foster a love of literature.

The Lynx’s mission is rooted in amplifying underrepresented voices and creating a space where a wide range of

stories can be discovered and celebrated. This thoughtful curation is reflected throughout the store’s vibrant and ever-evolving collection.

With its indie, alternative vibe, The Lynx fits seamlessly into downtown Gainesville’s dynamic art scene, attracting college students and young locals eager to explore something fresh, inclusive, and uniquely Gainesville.

Whether you’re after a rare vinyl, a gently loved paperback, or a conversation over coffee, Gainesville’s indie bookstores deliver more than a shopping trip—they offer an experience. Each one tells a story all its own, shaped by the people who run them and the readers who return. For those who love to browse, linger, and belong, these shops are worth turning the page for.

A vibrant haven for book lovers, The Lynx blends cozy charm with a bold indie spirit—offering curated reads, fresh brews, and a welcoming space for community and connection in the heart of Gainesville.

TEACHER’S TOOLBOX

By Dr. Kaytie Milliken

Summer is here! School’s out! Now what?

Let’s talk about an old faithful, never-let-you-down, favorite summertime activity—water play!

Playing with water, in nearly every way, offers profound developmental benefits. As children pour, scoop, and manipulate water, they’re naturally strengthening the small muscles in their hands and fingers—the same muscles they’ll need for writing and drawing.

DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN IS A DEDICATED EDUCATION CONSULTANT EMPOWERING PARENTS AND TEACHERS WITH PRACTICAL, RESEARCH-BASED STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES. BORN AND RAISED IN ALACHUA COUNTY AND A PROUD UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA GRADUATE, KAYTIE COMBINES HER PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE WITH HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS A MOTHER TO PROVIDE VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND SUPPORT. SHE INVITES YOU TO CONNECT WITH HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA @KAYMILLIKEN OR VIA EMAIL AT KAYTLYNN.MILLIKEN@GMAIL.COM.

Welcome to From The Teacher’s Toolbox: a recurring feature dedicated to empowering you with tools to support children’s growth and development. Each installment will offer practical, research-based techniques and resources to enhance your skills and confidence as a parent or teacher.

The resistance of water provides gentle strengthening without feeling like exercise, and the sensory input helps children who feel overwhelmed find their calm. Consider how soothing water can be for you—here’s the science behind it: The tactile (touch) experience of water play helps regulate our nervous systems, making it a valuable tool for anyone who struggles with sensory processing or high energy levels. When children engage with water, their brains process multiple types of sensory information simultaneously—temperature, pressure, movement, and texture—which strengthens neural pathways and sensory integration skills. Amazingly, this sensory regulation happens automatically. Children don’t need to think about or work at it. Their brains respond to the natural properties of water, creating an ideal environment for both physical development and emotional balance.

Water play engages multiple senses simultaneously, creating neural pathways that support everything from hand-eye coordination to emotional regulation.

SAFETY CHECK!

The non-negotiables of water play:

• Ensure constant adult supervision

• Empty all containers immediately after play

• Keep water shallow; 2 inches or less for toddlers

• Have towels ready for quick cleanup and comfort

TODDLERS

For our youngest learners, water play is all about sensory exploration and basic cause-and-effect understanding. Young children enjoy filling and dumping containers, washing toys with sponges, or “painting” outdoor surfaces with large brushes and water. At this age, supervision is constant, and the focus is on exploration rather than structured learning. One of my baby’s favorite activities is to splash around with two bowls of water, one warm and one cold. I love watching him discover that he can control his experience just by choosing which bowl to touch. Of course, this is over quickly, and then he’s happy to slap, slobber, and toss the bowls around.

Try this!

• Float ping pong balls in a shallow tray and encourage fishing with kitchen tongs

• Create a baby doll spa with warm, soapy water and wash cloths

• Set up water transfer stations using different-sized containers and large spoons

• Make soup by adding leaves, flowers, or safe items to the water bowls

Even 15-20 minutes of water play offers significant sensory input and learning opportunities!

PRESCHOOLERS

Preschoolers are ready for more complex activities. Try incorporating early academic skills, such as counting or following multi-step directions. Your preschooler might enjoy creating a car wash for outdoor toys or hosting a meal in their outdoor kitchen. Bon appétit!

Try this!

• Create a bubble painting! Mix dish soap with water and food coloring, then blow bubbles onto paper.

• Set up a science station with funnels, tubes, and clear containers for water experiments.

• Create ice excavations by freezing small toys in containers and then rescue them using warm water and specialized tools.

This is the perfect age to introduce simple science concepts. Which objects float or sink? What happens when we add soap? My six-year-old loves to use bathtub water dyes and tablets for all types of color-mixing experiments. This kind of exploration develops the foundation for scientific reasoning.

SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN

As children grow older, they’re ready for water activities that involve problem-solving and creativity. Challenge them to build water courses, mix colors, and team up on projects that combine skills with hands-on play.

Try this!

• Host a splash pad dance party with sprinklers and music.

• Open a water restaurant where kids serve pretend meals using pitchers, ladles, and colorful water.

• Set up sponge toss games with buckets at different distances.

This age group often enjoys contributing to family responsibilities, such as washing family cars, watering gardens, or helping with outdoor cleaning projects. Win, win!

Pro Tip: Keep a designated container with various containers, funnels, sponges, squeeze bottles, measuring cups, and floating toys. Having these items readily accessible makes it simple to set up spontaneous water play when energy is high and attention spans are short.

DID YOU KNOW?

Water play naturally introduces our children to critical academic concepts.

MATHEMATICS

Water play organically encourages kids to explore “how much?” and “how many?” They develop number sense by filling containers, noticing patterns, and estimating quantities. These hands-on experiences create a concrete understanding that supports abstract mathematical thinking later.

SCIENTIFIC THINKING

Every water activity is a potential science experiment! He’s observing states of matter when ice melts and exploring density when objects float or sink. She’s understanding pressure every time she squeezes a water bottle. Our job is to follow their natural curiosity with simple questions: “What do you think will happen if...?” or “I wonder why that occurred...”

LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

Water play builds vocabulary! As children pour, splash, and watch water drip and overflow, these action words take on real meaning through hands-on experience. Words like “shallow,” “deep,” “full,” and “empty” become part of their everyday language because they’re experiencing these concepts firsthand.

The open-ended nature of water play means there’s rarely one “right” way to do things, which reduces the sense of competition that can make sharing difficult. On a challenging day of sibling drama or classroom tension, water play can help shift the dynamic. Children who are regulated and engaged naturally become more flexible and generous with materials and ideas. Rather than teaching cooperation through rules or reminders, water play creates conditions in which working together makes sense.

TRUST THE PROCESS

Water play is inherently messy, and that’s part of its appeal for children. Prepare by laying out towels, changing the children into appropriate clothing, and having the necessary supplies ready. Consider designated “water play clothes” that can get soaked and muddy.

Remember that cleanup can be part of the learning experience. Children can help squeeze out sponges, hang up towels, and organize materials for next time. These

practical life skills are valuable learning opportunities in their own right.

Water play offers something increasingly rare in our world of schedules and iPad time—unstructured time for children to explore, experiment, and simply be present in their bodies. Yes, the developmental benefits are significant, but perhaps more importantly, water play can bring joy and positive associations with learning that can last a lifetime.

Embracing Life

BY DONNA BONNELL

NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY – AUGUST 17, 2025

Comedian George Carlin said, “I was looking in the mirror the other day, and I realized I haven’t changed much since I was in my twenties. The only difference is I look a whole lot older now.”

This famous actor and author’s quote triggered a personal life assessment. What did I see when I looked in the mirror? Carlin was 71 when he passed, which happens to be my current age.

I stared a little longer the next time my reflection appeared. What I saw was a bit frightening. Looking back was a grandmother, who is a baby boomer and senior citizen. That old woman had experienced many challenges, resulting in scars and wrinkles to prove her survival. That person was me.

After shedding a few tears, spending time pondering my reality, and taking many deep breaths, I decided to look again. This time, I saw and felt something different. A bright beam of sunlight shined through a nearby window, aimed directly at my reflection. Its warmth felt like a reassuring hug, reminding me that I should proudly own that mature face. Beneath the blemishes are many years of hard-earned knowledge and wisdom.

The sadness I endured transformed into gratitude. Unlike Carlin, I did change. I discovered that growing old is a gift, perhaps even an honor. Without a doubt, I knew my purpose for this mission was to enlighten others who may be facing a similar angst.

After conducting some research, I discovered that President Ronald Reagan formally designated a day to honor elderly folks. On August 19, 1988, he signed Proclamation 5847, declaring August 21st as National Senior Citizens Day. Since then, it has been commemorated annually on the third Sunday of August. This year, it will take place on Sunday, August 17th.

Reagen’s intention was (at least) two-fold. He sanctioned a day specifically to recognize senior citizens who have made positive contributions to

their local communities. Second, it was an official opportunity to bring important issues affecting senior citizens to the forefront in America.

At age 71, I am, without a doubt, a senior citizen. However, I had to know what age the federal government considers citizens to be seniors. I learned the magical number is 65, which is the age of eligibility for Medicare and Social Security. It is worth noting that the State of Florida’s definition of seniors differs slightly. Many senior communities throughout the Sunshine State offer occupancy to those who are 55 and older.

While exploring, I found these fun facts:

• President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act in 1935.

• Baby Boomers were born in the United States between 1946 and 1964. In 2011, the boomer generation began turning 65. By 2029, all boomers will be 65. (I was born in 1954.)

• 25% of the members of Gainesville Health and Fitness are 65 or older.

• Many businesses offer discounts to customers aged 60 and above.

Positive physical benefits experienced by some seniors include:

1. Sweating less. As we age, our sweat glands shrink and become less responsive to heat.

2. Less sensitive teeth. The dentin in our teeth hardens with age, serving as a barrier that blocks painful nerves.

3. Women have fewer migraines. After menopause, headaches become less frequent and less severe. Before, monthly hormonal changes triggered menopause migraines.

4. Fewer colds. After years of exposure, we have developed immunity to many viruses.

This mental journey of accepting my current mirror image was difficult yet rewarding. Today, I view those external imperfections as trophies. My reflection as a grandmother (aka Bebe or Grammy) will always include a smile. My grandkids are the ultimate reward for turning old. Mark Twain said, “Life would be infinitely happier if we could only be born at the age of 80 and gradually approach 18.”

In some ways, Twain’s quote might be true. As for me, I would rather remain a happy seasoned senior. I am grateful and truly blessed.

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HOW ONE VET CLINIC IS REDEFINING ANIMAL CARE

A Different Breed

STORY BY DELANEY STARLING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL EADDY

ALL PET OWNERS KNOW THE STRESS THAT COMES WITH A VISIT TO THE VETERINARIAN, FROM COAXING A DOG INTO THE CAR TO GETTING A CAT INTO THEIR CARRIER.

After finally arriving at the vet’s office, you have to lift your anxious pet onto a sterile, cold metal exam table. Imagine a veterinarian appointment that feels more like visiting a friend’s home than a medical office: the uncomfortable metal chairs are replaced with comfortable couches, and your pet never has to leave your side. This vision of a better vet visit inspired the creation of Community Care Veterinary Specialists (CCVS).

“People tell us all the time, ‘My dog has never been this relaxed at the vet.’ That’s when we know we’re doing something right,” says Co-founder, Dr. Stacey Fox-Alvarez. In a college town like Gainesville, where top-notch animal

hospitals are available around the clock, CCVS differentiates itself by taking a more holistic approach to care, demonstrating that not all veterinary offices need to be the same.

After working for years at the world-renowned University of Florida animal hospital, veterinarian couple Dr. Alex and Stacey Fox-Alvarez knew there had to be a better way to help pets. The couple met in school and quickly bonded upon discovering they were born just one day apart. After graduation, Stacey specialized in oncology while Alex focused on surgery at the UF animal hospital. Both were frustrated with the bureaucratic red tape that accompanied treating patients on such a large scale. Alex later connected with a former classmate from UF’s animal medicine program, Dr. Jessie Stanley, who was planning to open his own practice. The friends realized they shared the

same values: a practice that offered flexibility for doctors and patients, where everyone’s voice was valued, and where care was accessible regardless of a client’s resources.

Dr. Stacey Fox-Alvarez says, “We realized we wanted to work in an environment that didn’t exist yet—so we built it.” Thus, the goal was established, and the dream team of animal care professionals was assembled: Dr. Lantz Baltzley, Dr. Ruth-Ann Spinosa, Drs. Alex and Stacey Fox-Alvarez, Dr. Jessie Stanley, Karine Baltzley, and Dennis Baltzley, Ph.D. Before opening CCVS to the public, the team consulted corporate psychologist and part-owner Dennis Baltzley to create core values that would serve as the company’s roadmap: collaboration, growth mindset, courage, respect, and gratitude.

As the percentage of corporately-owned veterinary clinics continues to rise, making up between 25% and 35% of all veterinary practices in the country, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, CCVS stands out not only as privately-owned but also as employee-owned, creating a refreshingly democratic atmosphere. While corporate-owned practices focus on the bottom line, being privately-owned allows CCVS to provide a more individualized approach to each animal without the red tape. Everyone, from lead doctors like Alex and Stacey to entry-level veterinary technicians, has a voice in every company decision.

Dr. Alex Fox-Alvarez says, “I think giving everybody a sense of ownership and genuine ownership in the practice and watching it succeed has really helped to promote the culture that we have.” The absence of bureaucratic roadblocks enables the CCVS team to pivot, adapt, and prioritize compassion over profit. In a typical large veterinary practice, care plans made by a vet often require approval from a more senior staff member or referral to an outside specialist, which frequently prolongs the treatment process for the animal. CCVS does it differently. “We make decisions right on the floor,” says Dr. Alex Fox-Alvarez, “There’s no distance between the problem and the solution.”

“We realized we wanted to work in an environment that didn’t exist yet—so we built it.”

The dreaded vet bill. Even with pet insurance, the cost of keeping your pet healthy can be overwhelming. CCVS is committed to treating every patient, regardless of their budget. The company employs a spectrum-of-care model to achieve profitability while keeping costs low for individuals with limited resources. If a client is unable to afford the “gold standard” of treatment, such as surgery, the CCVS team will work with you and your budget to achieve the

Designed with comfort in mind, CCVS transforms the typical vet visit into a calm, welcoming experience for pets and owners.

best possible outcome for your pet. Dr. Alex Fox-Alvarez explained that in some cases, compassion has outweighed business concerns. Suppose a simple procedure can avoid euthanasia, but the client is unable to afford it. In that case, the team has come together and decided to operate anyway, saying, “This is something that would make us unhappy at work…because nobody likes to send those [cases] away.”

Where some animal hospitals might see other veterinary clinics as competition, CCVS sees community. One of their core values is collaboration, not only among their staff but also with other animal medical professionals, who come together to form a network of practitioners. Dr. Alex Fox-Alvarez explains, “We help people to find other options in their community that may be more within their budget, and we help to strengthen those options within the community.”

For example, CCVS does not provide ultrasounds; however, through collaborations with another local veterinary clinic, they can offer an outpatient ultrasound service. CCVS also strongly believes in educating veterinarians interested

in learning new skills through continued education courses, both at the clinic and occasionally at a local brewery. Their goal is not to be a one-stop shop; instead, they hope to grow something with an impact that can be felt throughout Gainesville and beyond.

Burnout is a serious issue in the veterinary field. A troubling statistic from the National Library of Medicine reveals that veterinarians face a significantly higher risk of suicide—up to four times that of the general population. Dr. Stacey Fox-Alvarez shares, “We all came in burnt out. This is our second chance—and we built it for each other.” CCVS acknowledges these challenges and strives to be a source of support, not stress, for its staff. That’s where the core values of respect and open communication come into play. Breaks and vacations are encouraged—a radical concept in some corporate veterinary practices.

CCVS has grown exponentially, from its initial 20 employees to a team of almost 90 staff members. “We always feel like we never want to grow for the sake of growth,” says Dr. Alex Fox-Alvarez.“We’re just waiting for the right people to come along.” The success has been organic, quickly gaining a loyal client base of animal lovers. In the future, CCVS aims to expand its medical imaging resources and offer more outpatient options to its clients.

If Drs. Alex and Stacey Fox-Alvarez were ever to take a step back, rest assured that the company would be sold to its employees, not a corporation.

Upon learning more about CCVS, it becomes clear that the practice benefits humans just as much as it does animals. For many, their pets are more like family than animals. When clients bring their furry family members into CCVS, they know every moment will be touched by compassionate care. Dr. Alex Fox-Alvarez says, “Every time someone says we made a difference—that’s the legacy we want.”

Drs. Alex and Stacey Fox-Alvarez

THE HISTORY OF AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY

Red, White, and Blue

WRITTEN BY SUMMER JARRO

THE FOURTH OF JULY IS MORE THAN JUST A DAY OF FIREWORKS, BARBECUES, AND POOL PARTIES.

It is also a day to celebrate the independence of the United States of America. Fourth of July officially became a recognized federal holiday in 1941, but its history goes further back than that. Celebrations of Independence Day started during the American Revolution. Citizens of the United States celebrate the Fourth of July to honor the country’s independence from Great Britain.

On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted for independence, and on July 4, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a document written by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the start of American independence, and today Americans celebrate

by enjoying fireworks, going to parades and concerts, or hosting gatherings and barbecues.

When battles started during the American Revolution, many colonists were against the idea of gaining independence from the British. However, about a year later, mentalities changed after tensions grew between the British and colonists. On June 7, 1776, the Continental Congress met at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia. Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee brought into question the idea of independence, according to History.com.

There was considerable debate, and as a result, a fiveman committee was formed with the sole purpose of the committee members writing a statement justifying the reasons to gain independence.

HOW INDEPENDENCE DAY WAS CELEBRATED

Before the American Revolution, colonists celebrated Great Britain’s king’s birthday yearly by ringing bells and having bonfires, processions, and speeches. During the American Revolution and as the first colonies were fighting the British, many colonists would celebrate the king’s birthday by hosting fake funerals for him as a way to celebrate the country’s work in gaining independence.

Fireworks have always been a popular way for people to show their patriotism on the Fourth of July. The tradition of shooting off fireworks on the Fourth of July began in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day. A ship’s cannon fired a 13-gun salute in honor of the 13 colonies, according to History.com.

On July 4, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a document written by Thomas

Once colonists declared independence from British rule, people celebrated their independence by hosting concerts, bonfires, parades, and firing cannons. Philadelphia held the first July 4th independence celebration, according to History.com.

After the Revolutionary War, Americans continued to celebrate Independence Day each year. At the end of the 18th century, the Federalist Party and DemocraticRepublicans, the popular political parties at the time, started hosting separate Fourth of July celebrations in large cities in the country.

CELEBRATING THE FOURTH OF JULY TODAY

Celebrating Independence Day became even more popular after the War of 1812, which saw the United States again at war with Great Britain. More Americans were patriotic after the end of that war. In 1870, July 4 was made a federation holiday by Congress, and in 1941, July 4 was made into a paid holiday for all federal employees. Throughout the nation’s history, the patriotism of the holiday would see ups and downs during times of unrest. There were moments many Americans did not feel the need to celebrate the holiday based on what was taking

place in the country. During the Vietnam War, for example, many did not celebrate the Fourth of July but instead protested it due to many citizens’ opinions of the government’s choices during the war. There was a large wave of patriotism across the country in other moments. On the first Fourth of July after the Sept. 11 attacks, many came out to celebrate to show their patriotism and that they were proud to be American.

The holiday is still popular, but its political importance has diminished over time, according to History.com.

Here’s to continuing to celebrate our great nation and the freedoms so many have fought, and continue to fight, for us to keep!

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FARM TALES From Mother Hen

GOOD TIMES!

It’s the Favorites issue again and it got me thinking of some of my favorite childhood activities during the summer months in the 1950s and 60s. It’s already June as I write this, and schools are letting out for summer all over. Just like back then, it’s still every kid’s favorite time of year. I know we looked forward to the last day of school all year long, and I’m sure children still do.

When the final bell rang on the last day of school, my classmates and I would rush toward the buses and you could feel the excite ment as we burst through the doors. Three months seemed like forever, and we were feeling the beautiful freedom from teachers and homework for what seemed like almost an eternity. The children who lived in town had plans to go to the movies with friends, enjoy afternoons at the community pool, or join in softball games with neighbor kids in the vacant lot near their homes.

(we called it the “crick”) and I remember reaching down through the clear water into the murky creek bed beneath to grab out clams. It was fun to put them up on the log that fell across our creek, and watch their muscle “leg” reach out to push themselves off the log and back into the water.

Another fun activity was catching lightening bugs every evening and putting them in a jar. It made a little lantern as they would blink their lights on and off. Before going to bed, I would always open the jar to give them back their

For me it meant lazy summer days reading in my room, helping my mother with our garden or dressing my kittens in doll clothes. I have a June birthday, so my mom would bake a cake for me and invite my cousins over for a picnic outside. I didn’t have any neighbor friends my own age, so my playmates were my cousins or my pets.

Instead of a swimming pool I had the nearby creek for paddling around in. Sometimes I would try fishing in the creek

Occasionally my parents would take me to the drive-in movies. I would be in my pajamas and bring a pillow and blanket with me. It was always so exciting to pull into our parking space and hook the speaker onto our lowered window glass. At some point during the movie, I would fall asleep and my dad would have to carry me up to my

My favorite movie I saw at the drive-in was “Trapeze” starring Burt Lancaster. It was probably 1957 when the movie came to our town. I was about seven at that time, and I remember reenacting the scenes all summer on my swing set’s trapeze in the back yard. In my imagination I was one of those stars in a sequin costume flying on the trapeze too.

I can only remember going to a few movies in the theatre as a young girl. One was Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” and another was “Snow White.” When I was thirteen, I got to see “Bye Bye Birdie.” It was my first teen movie, and I felt so grown up watching Ann-Margaret singing to a boy who looked a lot like Elvis.

I must confess, I never was a huge fan of Elvis. I guess he just wasn’t my type, because a few years later I became a full-blown Beatlemaniac. I made a scrapbook and collected Beatles bubble gum cards. I had all the Beatles’ albums

and you could usually hear their tunes drifting from my bedroom door. The Beatles’ music was the soundtrack for my teen years.

When their first movie “A Hard day’s Night” came out, I snagged one of the coveted tickets for opening night at our hometown theatre. I remember getting all dressed up to go. I put my hair up in curlers the afternoon before the movie, wanting to look my best. Once the movie started and the Beatles began to sing the theme song, bedlam erupted with all the girls screaming and crying. You really couldn’t hear a thing above the racket. I’m not really sure why, but I do remember crying a bit too. I guess the hysteria was contagious. That was the highlight of my summer in 1964.

back and forth with my wagon, I had the finished product done in time for dinner. I found a wire grate in the garage, placed it on top of the bricks and I was all set. With my mother’s help we lit a fire and the hot dogs were roasting on a stick. As the sun set, we toasted marshmallows to put on graham crackers for dessert.

As summer wore on, favorite things to do in the country were bonfires and barbeques. I remember one summer I took my little wagon behind a crib in our farmyard where my dad had piled up old bricks from a shed that he must have torn down. I got a brainstorm that I could build my own barbeque with those bricks. After numerous trips

Keeping

On Labor Day every year, my dad’s boat club would celebrate the end of summer with huge fireworks display for the community. He and other members of the club would work on original handmade displays that they constructed themselves. They would go to a fireworks factory located in our state a few hours away to get the supplies. Then they constructed scenes that would float down the river behind the club members’ boats, long before any big theme parks ever imagined doing it! I especially remember a three-part sea serpent, as well many others that had moving parts. It all was so impressive with the displays reflected in the water on the river. I loved the huge display of Niagara Falls, and of course the big finale with the American Flag, complete with all kinds of aerial fireworks shooting off behind it. It was a fitting end to our summer, as we knew school would be back in session in just a few days.

I hope you have enjoyed me reminiscing about my favorite summer activities. Those were such good times! Go out and make some with your family this summer too. God bless you…and may God bless America.

THE ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS MARKET AND THE LOCAL FARMERS MAKING IT POSSIBLE

Growing in Gainesville

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DELANEY STARLING

IT’S NEARING 8:30 A.M., AND A LINE OF EAGER EARLY BIRDS HAS ALREADY BEGUN TO FORM OUTSIDE THE GATES.

Farmers move with a practiced rhythm, organizing their colorful produce under shaded tents. When the gates open, the quiet lot transforms into a lively hub of conversation, color, and community. Each stand holds edible treasures, carefully grown by farmers deeply rooted in their craft. The Alachua County Farmers Market has become Gainesville’s cornucopia — a true reflection of the area’s local bounty.

Melissa Bell, co-founder of The Unruly Gardener, chats with customers in the heavy June heat. Unlike a typical produce stand, The Unruly Gardener offers something a little different: living plants. Bell specializes in edible and medicinal varieties, from locally-grown seeds to thriving tomato starters. She proudly calls everything they sell

“Beyond organic.” Her mission — to empower others to develop their own food — was sparked when her gardening students encouraged her to take the leap into farming. Some of her most popular items are climate-adapted seeds, explicitly nurtured for Florida’s unique growing conditions. Gesturing to her lush display, Bell reflects on her deeper purpose. It’s a “quiet manifesto,” she says, adding, “It’s trying to be the change, so to speak, and just connecting that way.”

Just two tents down, the Lucky Buddha Mushroom Farm invites passersby to rethink everything they thought they knew about fungi. Co-owner Sarah Stoddard began the farm with her husband after realizing their COVID-19 lockdown mushroom-growing hobby could turn into something more. She left a career in entertainment to become a full-time mushroom farmer — a leap that now finds her

GREEN THUMB

surrounded each Saturday by baskets of organically grown mushrooms, each packed with health benefits. Stoddard says her favorite part of the market is educating the public about this often-overlooked food. Some customers, she says, come back changed: “They come back and say that they’ve helped their husband, who has ADHD, or people that have told us that our mushrooms have changed their lives.” These stories highlight how farmers’ markets can offer more than fresh food — they’re also spaces for learning and healing.

Across the market, a longtime vendor greets familiar faces. Sita, of Sita’s Super Foods, has been a staple at the Alachua County Farmers Market for nearly 30 years. Her specialty is microgreens and nutrient-dense produce — a category that many now refer to as superfoods. But Sita was ahead of the curve. “Maybe in the ‘80s or the ‘90s, superfood wasn’t even a word. Now, since 2010, it’s become a thing,” she says. Every step of her business — from planting to harvesting to selling — is handled by Sita herself. She’s witnessed the rise of the homesteading movement and a steady increase in family-run farms. She’s also seen a shift in public awareness. “The positive changes are that more people are supporting farmers’ markets,” she said.

At the far end of the market, you’ll find one of the largest

and busiest booths — Jones Farm, run by Robin Jones. With a warm smile and sun-kissed arms, she embodies the spirit of small-scale farming. Jones Farm is known for its pesticide-free produce and generous pricing. “I say, you pitch till you win at Jones Farm,” she laughs. Jones has been selling at the market for over 15 years and loves seeing younger generations step into the farming world. “You get a lot of farmers retired and new people coming in, and I love to teach the new ones how to do it and get the next generation going,” she said.

As you move from tent to tent, what becomes clear is that every basket of mushrooms, every tray of seedlings, and every bundle of greens represents more than food. They represent commitment to community, to the land, and to a healthier way of life. Melissa Bell sums it up: “When you have local systems...you have people working to improve the land.”

Supporting a farmers market like this one isn’t just about fresh produce. It’s about investing in the people and the practices that sustain local food systems. So next time you have a free Saturday morning, consider visiting the Alachua County Farmers Market — and experience what it truly means to live local.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

JULY/AUGUST 2025

SCIENCE SURPRISES: REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

Thursday, July 17 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. High Springs Library Branch, 23779 W US HWY 27, 32643

7/17

HIGH SPRINGS – Explore what sets reptiles and amphibians apart during a 45-minute Science Surprises session at your local library. Geared toward elementary-aged kids, the program includes hands-on activities and fun facts about the natural world. No registration needed, but space is limited. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

SCIENCE SURPRISES: REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

Thursday, July 10 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. and 3 - 3:45 p.m.

Library Partnership Branch, 912 NE 16 Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Explore what sets reptiles and amphibians apart during a 45-minute Science Surprises session at your local library. Geared toward elementary-aged kids, the program includes hands-on activities and fun facts about the natural world. No registration needed, but space is limited. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

SELWYN BIRCHWOOD WITH RAMBLIN’ MUTTS

Saturday, July 12 at 6 p.m.

Heartwood Soundstage, 629 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Listening room, seated. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. heartwoodsoundstage.com

SUSTO STRINGBAND 2025 SUMMER TOUR WITH HOWDY

Wednesday, July 16 at 6 p.m.

Heartwood Soundstage, 629 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Outdoor stage. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. heartwoodsoundstage.com

THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOSE IN TEXAS

Friday, July 18 – Sunday, August 10

Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE – This lighthearted tale of small-town scandal and political maneuvering recounts the rise and fall of the Chicken Ranch, a famed Texas brothel operating since the 1850s. Beloved by governors, senators, mayors, and even winning football teams, Miss Mona’s cozy establishment faces closure when a zealous TV watchdog sets his sights on it. gcplayhouse.org

NCFBS PRESENTS: TOOTS

LORRAINE AND THE TRAFFIC WITH ROOT REDEMPTION DUO

Sunday, July 20 at 6 p.m.

Heartwood Soundstage, 629 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE – The North Central Florida Blues Society is excited to bring for the first time to Gainesville, Toots Lorraine & The Traffic. Indoor stage – seated. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. heartwoodsoundstage.com

SCIENCE SURPRISES: REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

Thursday, July 24 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. and 3 - 3:45 p.m.

Library Partnership Branch, 912 NE 16 Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Explore what sets reptiles and amphibians apart during a 45-minute Science Surprises session at your local library. Geared toward elementary-aged kids, the program includes hands-on activities and fun facts about the natural world. No registration needed, but space is limited. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

THE LIGHTNING

THIEF PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL

Thursday, July 24 – Sunday, August 3

High Springs Playhouse, 23416 W. US Highway 27

HIGH SPRINGS – Adapted from Rick Riordan’s novel “The Lightning Thief,” this production features a book by Joe Tracz, music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki, and direction by Johnyah Waldrop. highspringsplayhouse.com

7/25

TU FIESTA RADIO PRESENTS ELIO PIEDRA

Friday, July 25 from 7 – 10 p.m.

Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW 1 Lane

NEWBERRY – Grab your dancing shoes, and come enjoy the music under the stars. This is a free outdoor concert, open to the public. TiogaTownCenter.com

PUFFS – OR: SEVEN

INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC

Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 17

Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW 2nd Ave., Suite O

GAINESVILLE – For seven years, a certain boy wizard battled evil at a certain Wizard School. This isn’t his story. It’s the story of the Puffs— those who were simply there, too. A hilarious tale for anyone who’s never been chosen to save the world. acrosstown.org

GRANT PEEPLES WITH PASSERINE

Saturday, August 2 at 6 p.m.

Heartwood Soundstage, 629 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Indoor stage, seated. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. heartwoodsoundstage.com

POLLINATOR PARTY

Saturday, August 23 from 10 – 11 a.m.

Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.

GAINESVILLE – Visit the Butterfly Sanctuary at the Clubhouse Grounds and take part in a quick, hands-on pollinator count. Leaders will guide you in selecting a flowering plant and identifying visiting pollinators like bees, butterflies, flies, wasps and moths. It’s free, fun, and no registration is required. Parking is free and accessible. ggcfl.org

THE ACROSSTOWN REPERTORY

THEATRE’S ANNUAL GALA & FUNDRAISER

Saturday, August 23 at 6 p.m.

Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW 2nd Ave., Suite O

GAINESVILLE – Get a sneak peek at ART’s upcoming 44th season while enjoying hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, and a silent auction featuring goods and services from Gainesville’s most iconic businesses. Early bird tickets are $44 through July 31. acrosstown.org

SECOND FRI

HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE

Second Fridays

Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie and great conversations. All riding levels welcome. Tickets are $95 per-person. haileequestrian.com/events

THE TOP’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Saturday, August 9 from 4– 5 p.m. 30 N. Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Celebrate 25 years of good food, good drinks and good times. Enjoy giveaways, drink specials and a show at The Wooly. thetopsecretevents.com

ANNUAL

BAZAAR

& VENDOR FAIRE

Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The Gainesville Woman’s Club, 2809 W. University Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Find great deals on household goods, antiques, jewelry, collectables and more. Event is rain or shine and proceeds benefit The Gainesville Woman’s Club. gainesvillewomansclub.org

RECURRING EVENTS

GUIDED WALK AT KANAPAHA

First Saturdays at 10 a.m.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive

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

BIRDS AND BREWS

First Sundays, Start Times Vary First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St.

GAINESVILLE – Join volunteers with the Alachua Audubon Society in front of the Maggie Banner by The First Magnitude Warehouse for a 45-minute birdwatching tour around Depot Park and return to the brewery to unwind with a drink! fmbrewing.com

ARTIST MEETUP

Second Thursdays from 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery, 1314 S Main St.

GAINESVILLE – The Gainesville Fine Arts Association is proud to present Artist Meetups every second Thursday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m. Join in the conversation about the current exhibitions. Exhibiting artists are strongly encouraged to attend and speak about their work. This event is free and open to the public. gainesvillefinearts.org

JAZZ ON THE GREEN

Second Saturdays from 7 – 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

STORY TIME AT THE ZOO

Third Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

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

GAINESVILLE – Join the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and the Alachua County Library every 3rd Wednesday of the month for Story Time at the Zoo! Story time is held in front of the zoo on the lawn and is free for all to attend. If you’d like to visit the zoo after story time, tickets are $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 4-12, seniors over 60 and UF student and staff with Gator 1 card; and free for children 3 and under. Zoo Members and Santa Fe College students, staff and faculty with SF ID are free. sfcollege.edu/zoo

PLAYLIST AT THE POINTE

Fourth Fridays from 7 – 9 p.m.

Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave.

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

PEAK PULSE RUN CLUB

Thursdays from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Run, walk or crawl, all levels welcome. @peakpulsegville on Instagram

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET

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

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

PARKRUN 5K AT DEPOT PARK

Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.

Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave.

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

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET

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

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

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

Naked Salsa

BY CRYSTAL SMITH

DAUGHTERS JUST LIKE ME

Ask any of my older family members about me as a teenager, and you’ll probably get a side-eye and an exasperated “Woo boy.” I don’t exactly have the reputation of being an easy teen.

From my recollection I wasn’t so much a “handful” as maybe a mouthful. I don’t think I actually did a lot of bad things, I just had a sharp tongue. I left the idea that children should be seen and not heard back in my pre-pubescent years. Teenage Crystal was a raging bag of hormones with a mouth, an opinion — and no effs to give. Luckily I learned to capitalize on it later and became a writer.

As a teen, my mouth always ran faster than my filter, and I distinctly remember my own mother telling me “I hope you end up with a daughter just like you.” But she meant it with vengeance. The joke is — I have two daughters who are just like me. And, honestly I think they’re wonderful.

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but we all eventually choose our own style. And many of us have grand ideas of what that style is going to be long before our children even touch down earthside.

I thought mine would be the same benevolent dictatorship my mother raised me on, or maybe a complement to the authoritarian ruler that my children’s father chose to be. But 16 years in, I would probably classify my style as more habitat for humanity — as in these children are whole human beings who just happen to live in my habitat. It’s my job to build them up.

I think potty training toddlers was my turning point. It was the realization that I can’t make another human being release their bowels on cue that led me to the epiphany that parenting isn’t about controlling your kids. It’s about controlling yourself.

There’s a whole generation of “because I said so” parents who view parenting as an inherent right to rule. But those are the parents who get their panties in a twist by some sass talk from a teenager. Growing up, my mother constantly sang the praises of Dr. James Dobson. His “Strong-Willed Child” method essentially taught parents how to break their kids so they could be molded into model citizens.

She now says she’d probably toss those books out the window, but at the time she needed a way to get me in line.

In most of those old-school parent-child power dynamics, the goal is to raise children who submit to your authority. But to what end?

Eventually kids grow up to be adults, and if your entire relationship hinges on them being your subordinate, what happens when you’re no longer in that position of power? If your only goal was to get your kids to do what you say, what are they supposed to do when you’re not around to tell them what to do anymore? I genuinely like my kids as people, so I don’t want our relationship to end once they move out.

My 13-year-old has her dad’s engineer brain and my artsy side with a tendency to people please. (We’re working on that last part for both of us.) My 16-year-old is every bit me but with a much better sense of self worth. Our brains work the same in so many ways (I’ve clearly passed on the geometry allergy to her.) But while 16-year-old me was obsessed with transforming myself into the ideal form for the male gaze, she couldn’t care less. In fact, I’ve never met a teen who was less concerned with fitting a mold, and I am in awe.

Both my girls are fully and wholly themselves, and I couldn’t be more proud of them. But their friends are sometimes shocked at our family dynamic, and it’s not just because I don’t have a rule against cursing. I mean, I think a well-placed F bomb can be pure poetry in the right context. But I think their culture shock goes beyond that.

After the divorce I turned my house into a Feminist Barbie Dreamhouse. We value independence, kindness and trust. We are not a house of authoritarian rule, but rather a co-op of humans who care for one another.

It doesn’t mean it’s always kumbaya around here since not everyone under this roof has a fully developed prefrontal cortex or a brain full of totally regulated hormones. But there is an understanding that there are three individual people who live here with our own valid thoughts, feelings and experiences. It’s not my job to control them. It’s my job to nurture them.

I’ve tried to create a life where their wins are their wins, and their losses are their losses. I’m just here as an assistant. It’s liberating. And when these two broke besties finally move out, I hope I’ve created the foundation for deep, meaningful, lasting relationships with them.

Because I didn’t create these people to make myself feel more powerful or to live out my unrealized dreams through them. I created them without any expectations of who or what they should be.

I just lucked out and got two daughters who are just like me.

Dreaming of a home worthy of the Parade of Homes? Let our award-winning team bring your vision to life!

LEARNING TO HOVER

A PHOTO ESSAY BY MICHAEL A. EADDY

The Predictable Patterns of Hummingbirds

About The Artist

Michael A. Eaddy is an award-winning photographer based in Gainesville, Florida.

About The Photos

Several years ago, I noticed a few hummingbirds around my home, and ever since, photographing them has become something I look forward to each year—from mid-March through September.

Hummingbirds are notoriously challenging to photograph due to their tiny size, erratic movements, incredible speed, and naturally shy nature. After a few failed attempts, I decided to simply observe them for a while to better understand how to approach them. To my surprise, I discovered that hummingbirds are creatures of habit. They follow well-established routines, which makes their feeding times, favorite flowers, and preferred perching spots surprisingly predictable. This insight has made photographing them not only more successful, but also more enjoyable—for both me and, I believe, the hummingbirds.

I also came to learn just how fiercely territorial they are. They will defend their space against not only other hummingbirds but nearly anything that enters it. I’ve been buzzed more than once for getting too close! I love capturing these remarkable creatures on camera, though I often find myself missing a shot because I’m too captivated by their aerial acrobatics.

All of the images in this collection were captured using a 150–600mm lens.

See more of Michaels work at: michaelaeaddyphotography.com

AWAKEN TO A HEALTHIER WAY OF LIVING

At Awaken Chiropractic in Gainesville, they want you to be FREE from pain and illness. Focused on improving the health and wellness of the entire community, their mission is to not only provide you chiropractic care, but also the tools you need to improve your overall health and wellness - for a lifetime.

The highly trained and professional staff at Awaken Chiropractic work around a fundamental value – to care for patients the way they would their own family. From a thorough and complete physical and neurological examination to an open and honest approach towards an individualized plan for care, the team is committed to involving you in the roadmap to good health.

The chiropractic adjustments you receive at Awaken Chiropractic are safe and effective, and people of all ages, from infant to senior, can benefit from spinal re-alignments. With a long history of chiropractic care constantly improving, Awaken uses only the latest technology, techniques and approaches to assist in treatment. For example, the Torque Release Technique (TRT) is the most specific, targeted, and gentlest application adjustment available. By using a special instrument called an integrator in the process of applying targeted and specific adjustments to the spine – TRT allows for a more comfortable overall experience, without having to use the traditional cracking and popping found in most other chiropractic centers. This focused approach delivers

pinpoint accuracy to help re-align the spinal column and re-establish impaired neurological imbalances.

Hundreds of Five Star reviews detail assistance with neck & back pain, digestive issues, anxiety, migraines & headaches and numbness or tingling, however they are also uniquely specialized in the areas of pediatric and maternal care. They’ve helped hundreds of expecting mothers suffer less discomfort and enjoy a healthier overall pregnancy and post-partum recovery.

“Seeing our patients improve their health is what we’re most passionate about”

“Seeing our patients improve their health is what we’re most passionate about,” said Drs. Shane and Brittany Semegon, owners of Awaken Chiropractic. “We want to help make an impact in the health of our patients and our community.”

To learn more about Awaken Chiropractic, their incredible staff, and the many ways they can help you live your healthiest life, call the office or visit their website for additional information.

Restaurant Guide

Dave’s NY Deli

Authentic NY deli — Serving classic NY deli favorites since 2009. Dave’s NY Deli continues to be the place to go for authentic NY Deli food. Owner, Melissa says, “Nothing beats quality ingredients combined with a friendly staff.” Dave’s NY Deli serves New York size Pastrami and Corned Beef sandwiches, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Philly Cheesesteaks and Cubans, a big variety of sandwiches, Salad and Wraps. They also offer a Kids Menu. Let’s not forget about the dessert favorites such as, Cannolies and Cheesecake from New York. Come out and enjoy Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Dave’s NY Deli. Now serving beer and wine. Dave’s NY Deli also offers Catering.

12921 SW 1st Road • Tioga Town Center Monday thru Saturday 8 am to 8 pm

352-333-0291  www.DavesNYDeli.com

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

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

386-418-1039  www.eltorogainesville.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

Cilantro Tacos

Cali-Mex Street Food — This 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

Mi Apá Latin Café

Cuban — When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apá Latin Cafe. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic Cuban recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Croquetas de Jamon, and the best Cuban sandwiches in Alachua County. With three locations, you’re never far from the best Cuban coffee and Cuban pastries. Visit us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, seven days a week. Whether you’re dining in, driving through, or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And don’t forget our daily Happy Hour with half-off iced coffee and 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

Pepperoni’s Pizzeria

Pizzeria — Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings and salads in town using premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. We also have great lunch specials starting at only $6.99. All of our specialty pizzas are loaded with toppings. Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located on U.S. Highway 441 in Mills Plaza.

ORDER PICK UP

19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (located in Mills Plaza)

Monday- Sunday: 11:00am - 9pm

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 14 locations throughout Florida Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm

Order online or Download our App: PIESANOSTOGO.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

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

New Location!- 11 SE 1st Ave. Gainesville

Open Monday - Friday 10am - 6 pm

(352) 451-4972  thepaperbagdeli.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  www.thecraftybastards.com

Metro Diner

Comfort Food — Named “Best Diner” by the The Gainesville Sun, Gainesville Metro Diner offers big helpings of mouthwatering Southern comfort food all day long. Locals rave about our classic diner food like Fried Chicken & Waffles, Charleston Shrimp & Grits, and our Iron City Meatloaf, made famous by Guy Fieri on Diners Drive-ins and Dives! Located next to the University of Florida campus, near the Curtis Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Florida Museum of Natural History, Metro Diner Gainesville is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or dinner. A warm smile comes along with every tall glass of sweet tea, big cup of great coffee and ample serving of award-winning comfort food.

2130 S.W. 34th Street

Gainesville, FL 32608

Open 7 days a week. 7 am - 8 pm

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

UNCOVER THE MAGIC, MYTHS, AND MUST-SEE SPOTS OF IRELAND

Wander Into the Emerald Isle

STORY BY SUMMER JARRO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOEGAN JARRO

IRELAND IS CALLING—AND MORE TRAVELERS THAN EVER ARE ANSWERING THE CALL.

Whether you’re chasing cliffs kissed by sea spray, castles steeped in legend, or cobblestone streets buzzing with music and myth, the Emerald Isle offers a passport to enchantment. In recent years, the country has seen a surge in global visitors drawn to its vibrant cities, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With tourism climbing nearly 8% in 2024 and visitors spending over €5 billion, Ireland is more than just a lucky pick—it’s becoming a must-visit destination on everyone’s bucket list. From the historic charm of Dublin to the wind-swept cliffs of County Clare, there’s magic waiting in every corner.

DUBLIN

Ireland’s capital and most populous city, Dublin, offers the perfect blend of past and present. Its lively pubs, cozy cafés, and colorful streets pulse with energy, while parks and cathedrals tell stories from centuries past.

One highlight is EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum—an interactive experience that traces the journeys of the millions who left Ireland and explores the country’s global impact on music, politics, literature, and more. For those who appreciate academic charm, Trinity College is a must-see. As Ireland’s oldest university, its campus is both a historical landmark and home to the famed Book of Kells exhibit.

Wandering through Dublin, you’ll find stunning cathedrals, bustling shopping streets, and peaceful retreats like St. Stephen’s Green, a beloved park featuring sculptures, a lake, and shaded walking paths.

BLARNEY CASTLE

No trip to Ireland is complete without a stop at the legendary Blarney Castle. Built over 600 years ago, this medieval fortress draws visitors from around the world eager to explore its towers, gardens, and, of course, kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

According to legend, those who kiss the stone are granted the gift of eloquence. The stone’s origin is still debated, with stories ranging from Crusader relics to connections with Stonehenge. Still, one thing is sure: the lines of visitors willing to go to great lengths for a kiss speak to its enduring appeal.

Beyond the stone, the castle grounds are equally captivat ing. Visitors can explore preserved rooms, including the kitchen, bed rooms, and dungeons, before ventur ing into the estate’s lush gardens. With areas like the Poison Garden, Fern Garden, and Carnivorous Courtyard, there’s a sense of discovery at every turn.

CLIFFS OF MOHER

Towering over the Atlantic Ocean in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are among Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. Stretching for miles, these dramatic sea cliffs draw around 1.5 million visitors annually.

On clear days, the view is breathtaking—you can see far into the ocean or watch the waves crash hundreds of feet below. The cliffs are a favorite spot for locals and musicians, many of whom return daily to perform for guests. Nearby, the visitor center features exhibits, a gift shop, and refreshments, completing the experience.

KINSALE

Tucked along the southern coast in County Cork, the harbor town of Kinsale is a feast for the eyes. Known for its brightly painted buildings—vibrant pinks, yellows, and greens—Kinsale brings cheer to even the cloudiest Irish day.

In colorful Kinsale, vibrant streets meet seaside charm—perfect for savoring fresh seafood and a glass of Irish whiskey.

Visitors can stroll the winding streets, explore boutique shops, and enjoy some of the best seafood Ireland has to offer. With its charming backdrops and seaside views, Kinsale is also a photographer’s dream.

KYLEMORE ABBEY

Set against the wild beauty of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is a breathtaking blend of architecture, history, and spirituality. Built in 1868 by Mitchell Henry MP as a romantic gift for his wife, the castle has since become home to a community of Benedictine nuns.

Today, guests can tour the abbey’s restored rooms, stroll through the Victorian walled garden, and step inside the estate’s Neo-Gothic Church, which still holds Mass. Each corner of the grounds tells a story—from Victorian innovation to monastic tranquility.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a new adventure, Ireland delivers unforgettable moments around every corner. Its vibrant cities, legendary landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes make it a destination worth exploring—and revisiting. So grab your coat, pack your curiosity, and get ready to create your own memories on the Emerald Isle. With a bit of luck, you’ll leave with more than just souvenirs—you’ll carry a piece of Ireland in your heart.

MAJOR RENOVATIONS SET THE STAGE FOR A BOLD, IMMERSIVE REOPENING IN 2026

A New Era for the Florida Museum of Natural History

WRITTEN BY KAITLIN APPLEGATE

FOR OVER A CENTURY, THE FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY HAS BEEN UNCOVERING AND TELLING THE HIDDEN STORIES OF THE NATURAL WORLD.

With every exhibit, fossil, and specimen, the museum seeks to share Mother Nature’s narrative and inspire its guests to become part of her story, caring for the Earth around them. The museum is currently closed to the public, with plans to return better than ever in the fall of 2026, said Curator and Interim Director of Exhibits and Public Programs Jarret Daniels, Ph.D., in a phone interview.

The renovation aims to enhance everything guests already love about the museum. From the front entrance to longstanding exhibits like the fossil hall and butterfly rainforest, almost every part of the museum is getting a refresh. In addition to infrastructure upgrades, new experiences will enable guests to engage scientifically

with the natural world. From top to bottom, the museum is set to come back stronger than ever.

Possibly the most dramatic change is what guests will see before they even walk through the doors. In a phone interview, Alberto Lopez, Museum Manager of Education, shared that the new façade will resemble a reptile or fish, depending on the viewer’s interpretation. With its high visual impact, Daniels hopes passersby will stop and say, “Wow, what is that?”—an invitation to come inside and discover all the museum has to offer.

While the exterior will look brand new, the renovation will preserve and enhance many beloved classic exhibits. The fossil exhibit, the Native Peoples exhibit, and the butterfly rainforest are all receiving updates—but not at the expense of the core experiences that generations of museumgoers have come to know and love.

According to Daniels, the museum welcomes over 250,000 visitors annually. When the doors reopen, one of the most exciting new features will be “Science Up Close,” an interactive experience that gives guests a chance to speak with real scientists, ask questions, and consider what secrets the past may hold that could unlock a brighter future.

While staff eagerly prepare for the grand reopening, the museum hasn’t slowed down. In fact, it’s ramping up outreach efforts to help offset the loss of its physical space. Lopez, who works closely with the museum’s outreach programs, understands this season is especially tough for families who made regular visits to the museum part of their routine. Now, when guests can’t come to the museum, the museum is coming to them.

Enter Florida Museum on the Go!, a mobile outreach program that brings exhibits and experiences directly to

the community. Details can be found on the museum’s website at floridamuseum.ufl.edu.

The “On the Go” calendar lists events for all ages and interests. For adults, museum pop-ups have been spotted in fun spots like Lynx Books—where you can sip a drink while learning about skeletons—or First Magnitude Brewing, where visitors can learn how to protect pollinators. Each event combines education and enjoyment in a way that’s engaging and memorable.

For younger learners, Science Surprises is a program designed for elementary students to explore big science ideas through hands-on play. Whether it’s learning about amphibians, experimenting with flashlights, or exploring the properties of water, the program brings imagination to life at libraries throughout Alachua County.

And for those who can’t attend a scheduled event? The museum has them covered, too. All 12 Alachua County

Florida Museum on the Go! is a mobile outreach program that brings exhibits and hands-on experiences to the community while the museum undergoes renovations.

Library branches offer “Exploration Backpacks” for checkout—complete with binoculars, a butterfly net, a pocket microscope, and other tools to help anyone become a scientist in their own backyard.

Tech-savvy learners can also explore the museum’s online exhibits. These digital stories delve into topics such as the women of the Everglades and the science behind the colors and patterns of spiders, offering a window into nature’s wonders, wherever you are.

Amid construction, pop-ups, and research, one question fuels the team’s energy: Why does this work matter? For Daniels, who also teaches at the University of Florida, it’s a personal matter. Growing up in the country, he was encouraged by his parents to observe and explore the world around him. Those childhood moments, he says, were crucial to his path in science. His goal now is to offer that same spark to today’s children.

For Lopez, it’s about empowerment. One of his favorite moments on the job is placing binoculars into a child’s hands for the first time. Watching a child light up with curiosity and courage is a reminder of why this work is so vital.

“Children inspire me with their enthusiasm and willingness to try new things,” he said.

Education and exploration go hand in hand. Lopez once led a research project in Puerto Rico, studying an endangered frog species found in only one region of the island. When he spoke with children living nearby, he was struck by the fact that they knew nothing about the frogs in their backyards. It was a powerful lesson: the mysteries of nature remain hidden unless someone shines a light on them.

“Museums and collections are a library of life,” Lopez said. And the Florida Museum is more than just a place to store artifacts—it’s a living archive. With more than 40 million specimens and artifacts in its collections, the museum houses 40 million chances to hear nature’s whispered secrets. Forty million stories waiting to be told. And 40 million opportunities to build a more curious, more caring, and more sustainable future.

you can shake a fork at, and upscale, yet comfortable, hotels all in one place. You’ll see why we say there’s More to the Pointe at Celebration Pointe.

Congratulations!

With over 156,000 votes and more than 3,300 area businesses, places, people and events nominated, Our Town Magazine is proud to announce the finalists and winners of the 2025 FAVE Awards! Congratulations to everyone nominated and for the incredible support our community has shown these amazing businesses.

OUR TOWN FAVES

THANK YOU to all of our readers for voting for your favorites in over 230 categories. With over 156,000 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

THORNEBROOK ARTS FESTIVAL

shoppesatthornebrook.com

Held each fall and spring, the Shoppes at Thornebrook’s semiannual Fine Arts Show features two days of entertainment, food, and artwork from over 100 artists working in a variety of media.

FINALISTS:

Tom Petty Bash

GCM Food Festival

FAVORITE LOCAL ARTIST

JENNA HORNER

jennahorner.com

Jenna Horner’s murals can be found on a variety of businesses from restaurants, hotels and offices to grocery stores and salons. In addition to her mural work, Horner is also a collage artist.

FINALISTS:

Kim Hickey

Noel Smith

FAVORITE LOCAL BAND

UNCLE MORTY’S RHYTHM CREAM

facebook.com/rhythmcream

Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream is a 10-piece R&B, soul and rock cover band known for upbeat party music, four-part harmonies and the punchy sound of a full horn section.

FINALISTS:

Whiskey Jones

The Savants

FAVORITE LOCAL BIKE TRAIL

GAINESVILLE

HAWTHORNE STATE TRAIL

3400 SE 15th St., Gainesville

This historic rail bed turned greenway showcases native plants, wildlife and diverse scenery, offering a glimpse into authentic Florida culture. Overlooks and landmarks highlight the history of former railroad towns.

FINALIST:

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park

FAVORITE LOCAL CAMPING SPOT

GINNIE SPRINGS OUTDOORS, LLC

7300 NE Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs

Ginnie Springs Outdoors offers camping for tents by the river or RVs with full hookups across 200 wooded acres, including tent sites right by the springs for a true outdoor experience.

FINALISTS:

Paynes Prairie State Preserve Hart Springs

FAVORITE LOCAL CORPORATE EVENT/PARTY VENUE

SWAMP AXE

213 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville

Swamp Axe in downtown Gainesville offers expert-designed axe-throwing lanes, including VIP access, plus ample parking, handicap access, a full bar and friendly staff—perfect for parties, events or fun with friends.

FINALISTS:

Santa Fe River Ranch

Clark Plantation Event Venue

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

5213 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Stroll Haile Village Center’s tree-lined streets to shop groceries, prepared foods and handmade gifts. Then explore locally owned shops and restaurants for more shopping or a delicious brunch.

FINALISTS:

High Springs Farmers Market Grove Street Farmers Market

FAVORITE LOCAL GOLF COURSE

TURKEY CREEK GOLF COURSE

11400 Turkey Creek Blvd., Alachua

Voted North Florida’s best practice facility, Turkey Creek Golf Course offers nine- and 18-hole games, weekly leagues, tournaments and events. It’s open to the public and growing in popularity.

FINALISTS:

Ironwood Golf Course

Mark Bostick Golf Course at UF

A CANDIE’S COACHWORKS, INC.

6916 W University Ave., Gainesville

A Candies Coachworks, family-owned with 30+ years’ experience, offers luxurious Prevost H-Series Deluxe motor coaches and maintains an excellent safety record through dedicated staff and thorough training.

ONE LOVE CAFÉ

One Love Café is a vibrant hub for local musicians, featuring live jazz, swing, rock and pop performances Wednesday through Sunday.

FINALISTS:

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

3215 Hull Road, Gainesville

Since opening to the public in 1939, the Florida Museum of Natural History has offered educational experiences through permanent displays and rotating exhibits.

FINALISTS:

Butterfly Rainforest

Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention

Heartwood Soundstage Celebration Pointe FAVORITE

KEN BLOCK

sisterhazel.com

Ken Block, lead singer of the rock band Sister Hazel, is a well-known Gainesville figure, recognized for his music and his philanthropy as co-founder of Lyrics for Life.

FINALISTS:

Preston Nazworth

Kyle Keller

FAVORITE LOCAL LIVE MUSIC VENUE

FAVORITE LOCAL MUSICIAN

FAVORITE LOCAL PAINT & SIP ART STUDIO

TIOGA

Townoftioga.com

Tioga features open spaces for biking, gardening, dining, and family-friendly fun—like outdoor movies under the stars in the Town Square or strolls to dinner in the Town Center.

FINALISTS:

Haile Plantation Turkey Creek

FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT

ST. FRANCIS HOUSE

stfrancishousegnv.com

St. Francis House helps families with children achieve lasting self-sufficiency by providing case management, nutritious meals and access to education, health and career resources in a safe, supportive environment.

FINALISTS:

Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida

PEAK Literacy

PAINTING WITH A TWIST

618 NW 60th St., Suite B, Gainesville

No artistic experience needed—Painting with a Twist is all about relaxing with friends, enjoying wine and snacks, sharing laughs and having fun while learning to paint step by step.

FINALISTS:

Corks & Colors Studio Pinspiration Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO GO SWIMMING

ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK

12087 SW U.S. 27, Fort White

Known for its crystal-clear, 72-degree water year-round, these stunning blue springs are ideal for kayaking, tubing or swimming. Watch for manatees, otters, turtles and a variety of bird species.

FINALISTS:

Blue Springs State Park Westside Pool

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY

PARTY

SWAMP AXE

213 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville

From birthdays and graduations to team-building or gender reveals, Swamp Axe is the perfect spot for any celebration—or just drop in to unwind and have fun with friends.

FINALISTS:

Sun Country Sports Center Flip Factory

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH

CELEBRATION POINTE

4949 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville

At Celebration Pointe, relax on swinging benches, gather by fire pits or sit near the stage—perfect spots to enjoy movie nights, farmers markets and a variety of shopping and dining.

FINALISTS:

Shoppes at Thornebrook Kin Bar

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO TAKE YOUR PARENTS

SWAMP AXE

213 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville

Swamp Axe in downtown Gainesville offers an axe-citing experience for guests of any skill level. Bookings are available for every day of the week with private parties on Mondays.

FINALISTS:

Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park La Chua Trail

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO TAKE YOUR KIDS

SWAMP AXE

213 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville

Swamp Axe welcomes axe-throwers of all ages—anyone big enough to throw can play. Guests under 17 must be accompanied by an adult with a signed waiver from a parent or guardian.

FINALISTS:

Depot Park Sun Country Sports Center

SATCHEL’S PIZZA

1800 NE 23rd Ave., Gainesville

A Gainesville staple for over 20 years, this quirky pizza spot offers local art, live music, homemade sodas—and seating in a van, under a plane or in a greenhouse.

FINALISTS:

Celebration Pointe Shoppes at Thornebrook

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE TO WORSHIP

CANVAS CHURCH

canvasfl.com

Canvas Church began in 2008 with 18 people in a living room. In 2015, it purchased Oak Hill Plaza in Alachua. Today, attendees come from 32 cities across North Florida.

FINALISTS:

Westside Baptist Church Greenhouse Church

FAVORITE LOCAL SPORTS VENUE

BEN HILL GRIFFIN STADIUM

157 Gale Lemerand Drive, Gainesville

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, known as “The Swamp,” was built in 1930 and has expanded over time to hold up to 88,548 fans—making it Florida’s largest football stadium.

FINALISTS:

Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center

Condron Family Ballpark

FAVORITE LOCAL WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

SANTA FE RIVER RANCH

santaferiverranch.com

Santa Fe River Ranch offers stunning ceremony sites, a luxurious reception space, and full-day coordination—creating a stress-free, elegant wedding experience on 2,200 scenic acres along the Santa Fe River.

FINALISTS:

The Historic Thomas Center Valley View

25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE FOOD SERVICE INDUSTRY

Stone House Neighborhood Grill is 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.

Eats

FAVORITE “BEST-KEPT SECRET” RESTAURANT

GERMAIN’S

220 NW 8th Ave., Suite 10, Gainesville

Germain’s, featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” is a fast-casual spot known for its gourmet chicken sandwiches, fresh salads, and flavorful sides.

FINALISTS:

Public & General

Bingo Deli & Pub

FAVORITE LOCAL AMERICAN FOOD

THE TOP

30 N. Main St., Gainesville

The Top serves American favorites like burgers and fried chicken, plus shareable bites including nachos, fried pickles and corn nuggets—paired with craft cocktails, wine and a wide range of spirits.

FINALISTS:

That Bar & Table Local Provisions

FAVORITE LOCAL BAKERY

UPPERCRUST PRODUCTIONS

4118 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville

Uppercrust is an artisan bakery offering scratch-made goods baked fresh daily, alongside curated wines, specialty foods, stationery, and unique gifts that perfectly complement their handcrafted, small-batch creations.

FINALISTS:

Patticakes

Good Life Station

FAVORITE LOCAL BAR FOOD

CRAFTY BASTARDS RESTAURANT

4860 NW 39th Ave. A, Gainesville

Since 2015, Crafty Bastards has been a go-to craft beer pub, pairing quality brews with bar food favorites like wings, tater tots, chili cheese fries and loaded nachos.

FINALISTS:

That Bar & Table Loosey’s

FAVORITE LOCAL BBQ

PEARLS COUNTRY STORE & BARBECUE

106 NE Hwy 441 A, Micanopy

Voted one of Florida’s top four barbecue spots by Southern Living in 2019, Pearl Country Store and Barbecue serves dinners, sandwiches and meats by the pound and more.

FINALISTS:

David’s BBQ & Catering

Adam’s Rib Co

FAVORITE LOCAL BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

43RD STREET DELI & BREAKFAST HOUSE

43rdstreetdeli.com

For over 35 years, 43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House has proudly served the Gainesville community with friendly service and classic breakfast and lunch fare, from omelets and pancakes to French toast and waffles.

FINALISTS:

Flying Biscuit Café

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille

FAVORITE LOCAL CHEF

BEV’S BETTER BURGERS

With locations in Alachua and High Springs, Bev’s Better Burgers lives up to its name—serving crowd-favorite hamburgers and cheeseburgers alongside sweet potato waffle fries, corn nuggets and other tasty sides.

FINALISTS:

DJ’s Cast Iron Burgers Ford’s Garage

FAVORITE LOCAL CATERER

HILL’S BBQ & CATERING

hillsbbq.com

Hill’s BBQ & Catering has delivered fresh, onsite-cooked food and customized services for special events since 1987, earning a reputation for quality barbecue and reliable, crowd-pleasing catering.

FINALISTS:

David’s BBQ & Catering

Baker’s Table Co.

BRITON DUMAS (EMBERS WOOD GRILL)

3545 SW 34th St., Suite A, Gainesville

Classically trained in French cuisine, Chef Briton Dumas, a Gainesville native, showcases his culinary skills as both chef and owner of Embers Wood Grill.

FINALISTS:

Bert Gill (Blue Gill Quality Food)

Carmine Dicandia (Pomodoro Café)

FAVORITE LOCAL

GERMAIN’S

220 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville

Germain’s Chicken Sandwiches combines superior service with personalized care, crafting each sandwich with love and attention to detail to deliver the best, making every bite a thoughtful, flavorful experience.

FINALISTS:

PDQ

That Bar & Table

FAVORITE LOCAL CHICKEN WINGS

GATOR’S DOCKSIDE GAINESVILLE

3842 W. Newberry Road, Gainesville

Gator’s Dockside is famous for its award-winning wings, featuring three dry rubs and 19 sauces—from sweet teriyaki and honey garlic to spicy mango habanero—offering flavors to satisfy every palate.

FINALISTS:

Crafty Bastards Restaurant

Mother’s Pub & Grill

FAVORITE LOCAL CHINESE FOOD

YUMMY HOUSE

GAINESVILLE

3102 SW 34th St., Gainesville

Yummy House is an award-winning Chinese restaurant serving authentic cuisine throughout Florida, where a passionate team crafts each dish with fresh ingredients, careful attention and a commitment to exceptional service.

FINALISTS: Chopstix Café

Mr. Han’s Restaurant

CHICKEN SANDWICH

FAVORITE LOCAL DELICATESSEN

THORNEBROOK CHOCOLATES

2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 21, Gainesville

Since 1985, Thornebrook Chocolates has been a locally owned shop specializing in handdipped confections and unique gifts, offering milk, dark, and white chocolates with a variety of delicious fillings.

FINALISTS:

Kilwins

Pampy’s Cuban Bakery

FAVORITE LOCAL COFFEE/COFFEEHOUSE

PATTICAKES

patticakesgnv.com

Founded in 2011 on a love for coffee, cupcakes and community, Patticakes has thrived ever since—expanding to Tioga Town Center in 2020 with continued support from loyal guests and friends.

FINALISTS:

Bagel Bakery

Opus Coffee

THE PAPER BAG

thepaperbagdeli.com

The Paper Bag is known for wine, beer, and deli sandwiches made with premium Boar’s Head meats and cheeses—offering quality food fast, whether you’re dining in or taking it to go.

FINALISTS:

Hogan’s Great Sandwiches

Fehrenbacher’s Meats & Eats

FAVORITE LOCAL DOUGHNUT

KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS

306 NW 13th St, Gainesville

Krispy Kreme serves some of the city’s best doughnuts, from classics like cinnamon sugar and blueberry to limited-edition treats—made even sweeter when the Hot Light signals fresh, warm batches.

FINALISTS:

Daylight Donuts

Donut Connection

FAVORITE LOCAL FAMILY RESTAURANT

PIESANOS STONE FIRED PIZZA

piesanostogo.com

With three Gainesville locations, Piesanos is a family-friendly spot serving fresh Italian cuisine. Guests enjoy lunch specials, kid-friendly options and convenient take-and-bake meals alongside the main menu favorites.

FINALISTS:

O Sole Mio Cucina Italiana

Leonardo’s

FAVORITE LOCAL FINE DINING

EMBERS WOOD GRILL

3545 SW 34th St., Suite A, Gainesville

Embers Wood Grill delivers a refined dining experience featuring chef specialties, USDA prime steaks, fresh seafood and desserts like flaming crème brûlée—perfectly paired with an extensive wine and cocktail selection.

FINALISTS:

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grill

Prime & Pearl

DRAGONFLY SUSHI & SAKE COMPANY

Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company

offers artful, authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant cocktails—creating the perfect first date atmosphere where guests share flavorful dishes, meaningful conversation and memorable moments in the heart of Gainesville.

FINALISTS:

Kin Cocktail Bar & Lounge

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille

FAVORITE

CILANTRO TACOS

Eatcilantrotacos.com

Cilantro Tacos was founded on a passion for great food and service. Known for fresh, made-to-order meals, they serve street-style tacos with house-made pico, hand-smashed guacamole and never-frozen meats.

FINALISTS:

Eim Thai

Cheffrey’s Food Trailer & Special Events

FAVORITE

43RD STREET DELI & BREAKFAST HOUSE

43rdstreetdeli.com

For 30 years, 43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House has been a Gainesville favorite, locally owned and nationally recognized for its homemade breakfast and lunch—and the most diverse breakfast menu in North Florida.

FINALISTS:

Metro Diner

Flying Biscuit Café

FAVORITE

STEAK

YAMATO JAPANESE RESTAURANT

526 NW 60th St., Gainesville

Yamato serves everything from pork dumplings and sushi rolls to classic Japanese dishes. Renowned once again as Gainesville’s favorite Japanese steakhouse and hibachi spot, it delivers flavor and showmanship in every visit.

FINALISTS:

Samurai Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge

FAVORITE LOCAL ITALIAN FOOD

PIESANOS STONE FIRED PIZZA

Piesanostogo.com

Whether for a quick lunch or dinner with loved ones, Piesanos is the perfect pick— offering flavorful Italian dishes in a welcoming dining room or conveniently enjoyed at home.

FINALISTS:

Pomodoro Café

O Sole Mio Cucina Italiana

FAVORITE LOCAL MEDITERRANEAN FOOD

TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ

2905 SW 42nd St., Suite 10, Gainesville

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café in Butler Plaza has served Gainesville since 2017, offering fresh Coastal Mediterranean fare, dine-in or patio seating, takeout, delivery and catering with friendly, welcoming service.

FINALISTS:

Scuola Pizza

CAVA

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT OVERALL

LAS MARGARITA’S

4405 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville

Las Margaritas serves more than great cocktails—it’s a go-to for Gainesville’s best Mexican cuisine, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and other authentic favorites, all crafted with flavor.

FINALISTS:

El Indio

Linda Vista

FAVORITE LOCAL PIZZA

SATCHEL’S PIZZA

1800 NE 23rd Ave., Gainesville

Satchel’s Pizza offers lunch specials, pan pizzas, and customizable pies with over 30 toppings, plus vegan and gluten-sensitive options—making it a local favorite for everyone’s taste and needs.

FINALISTS:

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza

Blue Highway Pizza

EMBERS WOOD GRILL

3545 SW 34th St., Suite A, Gainesville

Embers Wood Grill serves chef-driven dishes like cumin-crusted sea bass and braised lamb shank, alongside USDA prime beef, fresh seafood, and indulgent sides like lobster mashed potatoes and fire-roasted tomatoes.

FINALISTS:

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza

The Top

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT PATIO

GREAT OUTDOORS RESTAURANT

18587 High Springs Main St., High Springs

Located in historic High Springs, The Great Outdoors Restaurant serves hand-cut Chairman’s Reserve steaks, locally sourced dishes and vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options—offering something for everyone in a memorable setting.

FINALISTS:

One Love Café

Alpin Bistro

FAVORITE LOCAL RIBS

ADAM’S RIB CO.

2109 NW 13th St., Gainesville

Specializing in Southern-style barbecue, Adam’s Rib Co. lives up to its name with slow-smoked ribs glazed in sweet sauce and infused with pecan, blackjack and hickory wood flavors.

FINALISTS:

Sonny’s BBQ

Pearls Country Store

FAVORITE LOCAL SEAFOOD

NORTHWEST GRILLE

5115 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville

Northwest Grille, family-owned since 1996, treats every customer like family, prioritizing locally sourced, high-quality ingredients to serve fresh seafood and delicious meals at great value.

FINALISTS:

Northwest Seafood

Cedar River Seafood

FAVORITE LOCAL TEA SHOP

EMBERS WOOD GRILL

3545 SW 34th St., Suite A, Gainesville

Embers Wood Grill offers an exceptional fine-dining experience with hand-cut USDA prime beef, grilled over hickory, pecan and cherry wood—a standout feature on their expertly crafted menu.

FINALISTS:

Texas Roadhouse

Mark’s Prime Steakhouse

FAVORITE LOCAL SUSHI

DRAGONFLY SUSHI & SAKE COMPANY

201 SE 2nd Ave., Gainesville

Dragonfly offers a unique sushi menu with classic a la carte options and creative rolls like Mango Tango and Magic Matt, blending smoked salmon, tempura kabocha, fresh fruit, and savory mushrooms.

FINALISTS:

Volcanic Sushi & Sake

Kasai Sushi Bar and Kitchen

FAVORITE LOCAL TACOS

CILANTRO TACOS

eatcilantrotacos.com

Cilantro Tacos, a family-owned business, treats patrons like family, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and vibrant flavors to ensure every meal is made to order with care and passion.

FINALISTS:

El Indio

Las Carretas

TEATIME TRANQUILITY & TREASURES

14521 Main St., Alachua

Teatime Tranquility & Treasures, now back in its original cozy venue, offers loose-leaf teas, delicious sweets like scones and tea cakes, and exquisite high tea experiences in an intimate setting.

FINALISTS:

TeaStori

Karma Cream

FAVORITE LOCAL THAI FOOD

BANGKOK SQUARE

bangkoksquarefl.com

Bangkok Square, a family-owned restaurant, serves authentic Thai cuisine, including curries, noodles and fried rice, plus unique desserts like sticky rice with custard, lychee and Thai donuts for a flavorful experience.

FINALISTS:

Eim Thai Chopstix

FAVORITE LOCAL VEGETARIAN/VEGAN FOOD

THE TOP

30 N Main St., Gainesville

The Top excels in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, serving flavorful dishes beyond salads—like seitan cheesesteak, buffalo tempeh, pesto gnocchi, and eggplant rollatini—a favorite for Gainesville’s plant-based diners.

FINALISTS:

Chopstix

Just Salad

FAVORITE LOCAL WINE SELECTION

DORN’S LIQUORS

4140 NW 16th Blvd,, Gainesville

Dorn’s Liquors offers more than top-shelf selections—they provide expert wine pairings, cocktail advice, event catering, and host wine tastings, bourbon sampling events, and mixology classes.

FINALISTS:

Beaker & Flask Wine Co.

Superette Wine + Provisions

FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN ALACHUA

CONESTOGAS RESTAURANT

14920 Main St., Alachua

Conestogas Restaurant opened in 1988 with 35 seats and now spans multiple historic buildings. Family-founded and customer-focused, it’s known for hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming, down-home atmosphere.

FINALISTS:

Mi Apa Latin Café

Good Life Station

FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN GAINESVILLE

EMBERS WOOD GRILL

3545 SW 34th St., Suite A, Gainesville

Embers Wood Grill features over 300 wines, a full bar with ports and sherries, wood-grilled steaks, fresh seafood, chef specialties, and desserts—earning top restaurant honors from Our Town readers.

FINALISTS:

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille

The Top

IN

GREAT OUTDOORS RESTAURANT

65 N Main St., High Springs·

The Great Outdoors Restaurant, a 2018 TripAdvisor Award of Excellence winner, draws guests with live music, outdoor patio seating, upstairs opera house dining, and a menu filled with flavorful, memorable dishes.

FINALISTS:

Prohibition Pizza

Watershed Restaurant

FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN NEWBERRY

BLUE HIGHWAY PIZZA

13005 SW 1st Road, Newberry

Blue Highway Pizza is a purpose-driven, team-oriented restaurant committed to excellence, integrity, and sustainability—serving fresh, locally sourced food while supporting community causes and minimizing its environmental footprint.

FINALISTS:

Stone House Neighborhood Grill

Capricious Café

Health & Beauty

FAVORITE LOCAL ACUPUNCTURIST

DEETA WIDMER ADKINS (BODIES IN BALANCE ACUPUNCTURE)

2234 NW 40th Terrace, Gainesville

Deeta Widmer Adkins, an acupuncture physician and structural integration therapist, brings deep compassion and dedication to supporting her patients’ well-being and guiding them on their path to lasting wellness.

FINALISTS:

Florida Acupuncture and Counseling

Yan Acupuncture & Herbs

FAVORITE LOCAL AESTHETIC CENTER

MOOI MEDICAL SPA AND LASER CENTER

4650 NW 39th Place, Unit C, Gainesville

Mooi Medical Spa & Laser Center, led by Dr. Tracey Botha, MD, offers Botox, fillers, IPL treatments, Instalift® threads, tattoo removal, HRT, weight-loss tools, and more advanced aesthetic services.

FINALISTS:

Pure Aesthetics

North Florida Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics

FAVORITE LOCAL AESTHETICIAN

TAYLOR RODGERS (HAILE VILLAGE SPA & SALON)

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Taylor Rodgers, a licensed esthetician and massage therapist, trained in advanced modalities and herbalism. She played a key role in developing spa protocols and launching FarmHouse Fresh at Haile Village Spa & Salon.

FINALISTS:

Dr. Tracey Botha (Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center)

Serena Noble (Haile Village Spa & Salon)

FAVORITE LOCAL AUDIOLOGIST

DR. JAGADISH SWAMY (CLEAR SOUND AUDIOLOGY)

2240 NW 40th Terrace, Suite C, Gainesville

Dr. Jagadish Swamy, a board-certified audiologist with over 20 years’ experience, specializes in hearing loss diagnosis, advanced hearing technologies, tinnitus management, and patient education. He earned his doctorate from UF.

FINALISTS:

Ryan Baker, Au.D. (Audiology by Accent)

Diana Guercio, Au.D. (Audiology by Accent)

FAVORITE LOCAL BARBER

HAILE VILLAGE SPA & SALON

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Haile Village Spa & Salon offers a full range of hair care services, including cuts for all lengths, keratin and CBD treatments, color consults, extensions, tinting and cuts for men and kids.

FINALISTS:

Randy’s Haircuts for Men

Katie the Haircut Lady, LLC

FAVORITE LOCAL BODY PIERCING SHOP

PIZZAZZ PIERCING AND TATTOO

532 N. Main St., Gainesville Pizzazz Piercing & Tattoo is a team of passionate artists and piercers dedicated to client comfort and safety. Uncle Bob and Caroline offer expert piercings using titanium and gold jewelry.

FINALISTS:

Bodytech Tattooing & Piercing

Anatomic Body Piercing

FAVORITE LOCAL CBD STORE

HALO HEALTH CBD halohealthcbd.com

Founded by Dr. Heather Hardin, Halo Health offers expert guidance in nutrition, fitness, and mental wellness—addressing holistic health through a naturopathic, pharmacy-based approach to whole-body wellness.

FINALISTS:

Curaleaf

FLUENT

FAVORITE

POWELL CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTER

107 SW 140th Terrace, Newberry

Powell Chiropractic Health Center offers Gainesville-area residents personalized treatment plans using a multifaceted approach. Services include chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture to promote healing, reduce pain and support overall wellness.

FINALISTS:

Awaken Chiropractic

Tucker Chiropractic

FAVORITE COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON

DR. TRACEY BOTHA (MOOI MEDICAL SPA AND LASER CENTER)

4650 NW 39th Place, Unit C, Gainesville

Dr. Botha, a board-certified OB-GYN with over 20 years of experience, provides personalized care at Mooi Medical Spa, offering treatments from acne and scars to body sculpting and fillers.

FINALISTS:

Dry David Mateo (North Florida Plastic Surgery Center)

Dr. John W. Tyrone

GAINESVILLE DENTISTRY CO.

2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 16, Gainesville

Gainesville Dentistry Co. prioritizes preventive care and long-term oral health, combining advanced technology with a compassionate, patient-focused approach to help individuals achieve and maintain lasting dental wellness.

FINALISTS:

Comprehensive Dental

Smart Smile Dentistry

FAVORITE LOCAL DERMATOLOGIST

CHRISTINA MITCHELL, MD (DERMATOLOGY SPECIALISTS OF GAINESVILLE)

13575 NW 1st Lane, Suite 10, Newberry

Dr. Christina Mitchell, a Florida native and board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Specialists of Gainesville, combines medical and aesthetic dermatology to help patients feel confident, healthy and comfortable in their skin.

FINALISTS:

Erica Canova, MD (Gainesville Dermatology)

Anthony Aulisio, MD (Gainesville Dermatology)

Thank You For Your Votes!

FAVORITE LOCAL EYE CLINIC

HEDGES EYE CARE

14128 W. Newberry Road, Suite 40, Newberry

Hedges Eye Care, founded by Dr. Stephen Hedges in 2020, provides high-quality vision and medical eye care in a welcoming, modern setting, serving Gainesville, Jonesville and Newberry with personalized, compassionate service.

FINALISTS:

Gainesville Eye Physicians

UF Health Eye Clinic

FAVORITE LOCAL EYE LASHES SALON

BEAUTY LOUNGE & CO

100 SW 75th St., Suite 203, Gainesville

Since opening in February 2016, Beauty Lounge & Co. has earned a reputation for exceptional service, using top-quality products and tools with a skilled, highly trained team of dedicated artists.

FINALISTS:

Elite Esthetics

The Brow Queen

FAVORITE LOCAL GYM

SALON ZIBA (ZIBA DE BEAUTE)

zibadebeaute.com

With more than 20 years of experience, Ziba Ahmadi is Gainesville’s premier eyebrow threading specialist, offering expert threading services for the face, arms and legs by appointment only.

FINALISTS:

Haile Village Spa & Salon Beauty Lounge & Co

FAVORITE LOCAL GROUP FITNESS

FLOMOTION FITNESS

15315 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua

FloMotion Fitness provides group classes for all fitness levels, offering fun, engaging and safe workouts designed to deliver effective results for every participant.

FINALISTS:

Gainesville Health & Fitness

XCEED Sports Performance

FLOMOTION FITNESS

15315 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua

FloMotion Fitness offers a premier garage gym experience, creating a welcoming, judgment-free space where individuals unite to pursue personal goals in health, nutrition and fitness.

FINALISTS:

Gainesville Health & Fitness

XCEED Sports Performance

FAVORITE LOCAL HAIR SALON

HAIR BY EMILY

CANTO

6110 NW 1st Place, Gainesville

Emily Canto, a third-generation licensed beauty professional, has seven years of industry experience. She offers personalized hair services from a private suite at Profero Salon, ensuring undivided attention during appointments.

FINALISTS:

Haile Village Spa & Salon

Mirror Mirror Salon Studio

FAVORITE LOCAL HEALTH FOOD STORE

WARD’S SUPERMARKET

515 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville

At Ward’s, grocery shopping is a personal commitment. The store supports local vendors and minimizes farm-to-table time, prioritizing community and quality in every aspect of its operations.

FINALISTS:

Whole Foods Market

Sunflower Health Foods

FAVORITE LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER (BUSINESS)

CELEBRATE PRIMARY CARE

919 NW 57th St., Gainesville

Celebrate Primary Care uses the Direct Primary Care model, providing extended provider time. For a low monthly fee, patients receive unlimited care access without copays, plus discounts on labs, medications and radiology.

FINALISTS:

Gainesville Direct Primary Care Physicians

Divine Speech and Swallowing Solutions

ELLIE ZAMORA (DIVINE SPEECH AND SWALLOWING SOLUTIONS)

Ellie Zamora, M.A., CCC-SLP, UF graduate and owner of Divine Speech and Swallowing Solutions, offers personalized therapy for adults, specializing in speech, swallowing, voice and cognitive treatments using advanced techniques.

FINALISTS:

Dr. Tracey Botha (Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center)

Jenn McConnell (Celebrate Primary Care)

FAVORITE LOCAL HOSPITAL

UF HEALTH SHANDS HOSPITAL

1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville

UF Health Shands Hospital includes nearly 900 physicians from UF College of Medicine and community, supported by 8,000 staff, delivering comprehensive care from primary to specialized services for complex conditions.

FINALIST:

COMFORT KEEPERS

1035 NW 57th St., Gainesville

Comfort Keepers Home Care provides compassionate, personalized in-home senior care across Gainesville and nearby Florida cities, empowering seniors to maintain independence and well-being with over 20 years of dedicated service.

FINALISTS:

Touching Hearts at Home

Granny Nannies

FAVORITE

HCA Florida North Florida Hospital FAVORITE

MOOI MEDICAL SPA AND LASER CENTER

4650 NW 39th Place, Unit C, Gainesville

Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center provides treatments for men and women to feel refreshed, including permanent, effective hair reduction and a variety of other rejuvenating services.

FINALISTS:

North Florida Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics

Pure Aesthetics

FAVORITE

OKITO AMERICA

okitoamerica.com

Okito America instructors complete rigorous training to join the team, committed to empowering clients with effective self-defense skills and holistic personal development programs that maximize their potential.

FINALISTS:

Star Martial Arts

Pro Taekwondo School FAVORITE LOCAL MASSAGE THERAPIST

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Serena Noble is a licensed massage therapist and esthetician with four years of spa experience. She specializes in body treatments, combining her skills and licenses for comprehensive care.

FINALISTS:

Cori Thibault (Cori Thibault Massage) Cody Yelton

LASER HAIR REMOVAL CENTER

(BUSINESS)

ARENA COUNSELING AND WELLNESS

300 E University Ave., Suite 210, Gainesville

Arena Counseling and Wellness offers holistic therapy, connecting clients with compatible therapists to create a welcoming, empowering environment where individuals feel seen, heard, valued and respected throughout their healing journey.

FINALISTS:

Sage Wellness

Arise Wellness GNV

FAVORITE LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER (PERSON)

KELLY GREGORY (ARENA COUNSELING AND WELLNESS)

300 E University Ave., Suite 210, Gainesville

Kelly Gregory, founder of Arena Counseling & Wellness, is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness and somatic techniques, supporting clients through life transitions and emotional healing with compassion.

FINALISTS:

Jennifer Martin (Sage Wellness)

Lara Dowling

FAVORITE LOCAL NAIL

HAILE VILLAGE SPA & SALON

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

At Haile Village Spa & Salon, clients enjoy manicures and pedicures, including filing, buffing, cuticle care, moisturizing and massage, plus gel polish application and removal services as needed.

FINALISTS:

Enso “A Healthier Nail Spa”

Queen Nails

FAVORITE LOCAL ORTHODONTIST

NEXT LEVEL

ORTHODONTICS

320 NW 76th Drive, Gainesville

Next Level Orthodontics provides personalized care, tailoring each treatment to individual goals. They use advanced technology and innovative techniques to create unique, confident smiles for every patient.

FINALISTS:

Martin Orthodontics

Studio32 Orthodontics

FAVORITE

DR. TRISTAN ALTBUCH (THE ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE)

4500 W Newberry Road, Gainesville

Dr. Altbuch, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializes in arthroscopic surgery, joint replacement and sports medicine, performing procedures like rotator cuff repairs and shoulder, hip and knee replacements.

FINALISTS:

Dr. Mark Petty, MD (The Orthopedic Institute)

Dr. Kevin Farmer (UF Health)

LILY BAISER (KINSPIRE)

Lily Baiser, MS, OTR/L, is the co-founder and chief clinical officer of Kinspire. With 17 years of experience, she specializes in sensory processing, developmental delays and feeding challenges.

FINALISTS:

Arin Sandora

Patricia Slattery

DR. KATHERYN SARANTOS (ALLIANCE PEDIATRICS)

4627 NW 53rd Ave., Gainesville

Dr. Katheryn Sarantos has served Gainesville for nearly 20 years, beginning her medical journey and pediatrics residency at the University of Florida, driven by a deep passion for helping others.

FINALISTS:

Dr. Mary Grooms (UF Health)

Dr. Rachel Coleman (Honeybee Pediatrics)

DIANE HANSIS (FLOMOTION FITNESS)

15315 NW US Highway 441, Alachua

Diane Hansis, a certified personal trainer and indoor cycling instructor at FloMotion Fitness, leads safe, effective rides that challenge and inspire, drawing from over a decade of group fitness experience.

FINALISTS:

Kelvin Jones (Zen Fitness)

Akela Collins (Gainesville Health and Fitness Center)

FAVORITE LOCAL PHARMACY

CURATIVE MEDICINE

2622 NW 43rd St., Gainesville

Curative Medicine offers health and beauty services, with expert pharmacists managing medications and insurance. Its knowledgeable staff recommends personalized products for pain relief, skin health and overall well-being.

FINALISTS:

Westlab Pharmacy

Hunters Crossing Publix

FAVORITE

GWP PHYSICAL THERAPY

4650 NW 39th Place, Suite B, Gainesville

Gainesville Wellness and Performance delivers proven strength and conditioning programs. Their expert team helps clients improve movement, appearance and overall well-being, supporting every step of the health and fitness journey.

FINALISTS:

Kinetix Physical Therapy

ReQuest

FAVORITE LOCAL PLACE FOR SKIN CARE

HAILE VILLAGE SPA & SALON

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Haile Village Spa & Salon offers expert skin care, including microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, back cleanses, collagen facials and a signature facial using award-winning Farmhouse Fresh products to refresh and renew skin.

FINALISTS:

Mooi Medical Spa & Laser Center

Gainesville Dermatology

FAVORITE LOCAL RUNNING EVENT

THE LIFESOUTH RACE

The LifeSouth Race is an initiative of the LifeSouth Community Foundation (formerly Five Points of Life), which provides education to K-12 students about the need for blood donation.

FINALISTS:

Gator Gallop

Depot Park Parkrun

FAVORITE LOCAL TANNING SALON

HAILE VILLAGE SPA & SALON

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Haile Village Spa & Salon offers massages, body scrubs, facials and nail care—professional services designed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation and overall well-being in a welcoming, tranquil environment.

FINALISTS:

Spa Royale

Relax Salt Rooms

FAVORITE LOCAL SPEECH THERAPY CENTER

DIVINE SPEECH AND SWALLOWING SOLUTIONS

4631 NW 53rd Ave., Gainesville

Divine Speech and Swallowing Solutions provides personalized, compassionate care and therapy to address physical and spiritual challenges, offering support, comfort and effective solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

FINALISTS:

Myoga Speech

Speech 4 Kids

BEAUTY LOUNGE & CO.

100 SW 75th St., Suite 203, Gainesville

Beauty Lounge customizes your glow with hand-applied airbrush spray tans, ensuring a smooth, streak-free finish. Its contouring technique enhances curves for a natural, sculpted, confident and radiant look.

FINALISTS:

Golden Glow Spray Tans

South Beach Tanning Alachua

FAVORITE LOCAL TATTOO SHOP

PIZZAZZ PIERCING AND TATTOO

532 N. Main St., Gainesville

Pizzazz Piercing and Tattoo in Gainesville offers a relaxing atmosphere and exceptional service. Artists Tomi, Madelynn, and Amanda specialize in trendy, versatile styles, delivering customized tattoos with high artistic standards.

FINALISTS:

Good Mood Tattoo

Death or Glory Tattoo Parlor

Now Accepting New Patients

FAVORITE LOCAL WAXING SALON

HAILE VILLAGE SPA & SALON

5207 SW 91st Terrace, Gainesville

Haile Village Spa & Salon offers comprehensive waxing services, including eyebrow shaping, jawline, chin, lower lip, bikini, Brazilian, underarms, full and half arms and legs, toes, stomach, chest, back and inner thighs.

FINALISTS:

Spa Royale Elite Esthetics

FAVORITE LOCAL WEIGHT LOSS/WELLNESS CENTER

IMPACT HEALTH 360

2550 SW 76th St., Suite 130, Gainesville

IMPACT Health 360 provides health and wellness coaching focused on long-term weight management. Their supportive, educational approach motivates clients to adopt healthier habits for lasting wellness and personal success.

FINALISTS:

Absolute Wellness and Weightloss

Mooi Medical Spa & Laser Center

YOGA POD

yogapodgainesville.com

Yoga Pod is a locally owned studio committed to breath, discipline and community. It offers yoga and strength training classes designed to elevate mind, body and spirit in an inclusive, supportive environment.

FINALISTS:

Hot Yoga Newberry

Gainesville Health and Fitness Center

FAVORITE LOCAL URGENT CARE

UF HEALTH

ufhealth.org

UF Health urgent care centers provide extended night and weekend hours, treating various illnesses and injuries, including cold and flu symptoms, cuts, bruises, burns, headaches, and migraines.

FINALISTS:

North Florida Urgent Care

Emergency Physicians Medical Center

Home Services

FAVORITE LOCAL CARPET CLEANING COMPANY

FLORIDA TOP NOTCH SERVICES

7136 SW 5th Road, Unit 136, Gainesville

Top Notch Services in Gainesville delivers expert carpet cleaning using premium products and equipment, restoring carpets to like-new condition with every treatment. Experience quality you can see and feel.

FINALISTS:

The Best Restoration

Atlas Carpet Care

FAVORITE LOCAL CLEANING COMPANY

FLORIDA TOP NOTCH SERVICES

7136 SW 5th Road, Unit 136, Gainesville

Florida Top Notch Services, a family-owned company, offers expert cleaning solutions, including water damage restoration, carpet and tile cleaning, carpet repairs, upholstery care, and dryer vent cleaning.

FINALISTS:

Natural Shine Cleaning

Gainesville Turnover Specialists

FAVORITE LOCAL COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT COMPANY

GOLDEN RULE REAL ESTATE AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

goldenrulerealestate.com

Golden Rule’s property management services take the stress out of renting by handling everything—marketing, tenant screening, lease drafting, move-ins, maintenance coordination and ensuring on-time rent collection.

FINALISTS:

Colliers

Watson Realty

FAVORITE LOCAL CONTRACTOR

SCHERER CONSTRUCTION OF NORTH FLORIDA

2504 NW 71st Place, Gainesville

Founded in 1984 with just a truck and a vision, Scherer Construction now delivers seamless, high-quality projects while continually expanding services to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

FINALISTS:

GW Homes

Jason Ratliff

FAVORITE LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

SUNSHINE SERVICES

sunshineservices.com

Sunshine Services offers expert residential and commercial solutions—from plumbing and HVAC maintenance to electrical work. Serving Gainesville and Ocala it delivers reliable, on-time service with quality results you can trust.

FINALISTS:

Riverbend Electric

Vintage Electric

FAVORITE LOCAL FLOORING COMPANY

CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

227 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville

Carpet One Floor & Home in Gainesville has served the community for over 50 years, offering expert guidance, quality flooring options, free estimates, and a Beautiful Guarantee from a trusted family-owned team.

FINALISTS:

Elite Flooring of Alachua Floor & Decor

FAVORITE LOCAL HANDYMAN

GAINESVILLE TURNOVER SPECIALISTS

yourgts.com

Gainesville Turnover Specialists bring years of experience delivering tailored solutions. Their expert team listens, plans and executes customized services—from apartment turnovers to carpet repairs—ensuring spaces are move-in ready with top-quality care.

FINALISTS:

Strick Services

Central Homes Repairs

TOMMY WATERS CUSTOM HOMES

274 NW 137th Drive, Suite 200, Newberry

Since 1954, Tommy Waters Custom Home Builders has crafted quality custom homes across three generations, earning a reputation for excellence, craftsmanship and trusted service in the Gainesville community.

FINALISTS:

GW Homes

Bullard Homes

FAVORITE LOCAL HOME INSPECTOR

HOUSE GUARD, LLC

houseguard.biz

House Guard, LLC, owned by Christopher Jones with over 20 years’ construction experience, offers trusted home inspections in Gainesville, Newberry and surrounding areas—helping clients make confident decisions about their home investments.

FINALISTS:

Garber Inspections

CYA Home Inspections

FAVORITE LOCAL HOME ORGANIZER

DONE BY K,

LLC

Donebyk.wixsite.com/donebyk

Done by K specializes in organizing kitchens, pantries, basements, garages, bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, family rooms, home offices and more—helping clients create organized, functional spaces throughout their homes.

FINALISTS:

Simplify Home Organizing

Jasmyn Copeland (Neat Method)

FAVORITE LOCAL HVAC COMPANY

SUNSHINE SERVICES

sunshineservices.com

Sunshine Services offers expert HVAC installation, repair, maintenance, and replacements for all types of systems, ensuring reliable comfort year-round with licensed, skilled technicians and quality service.

FINALISTS:

Bounds Heating & Air Comfort Temp

FAVORITE LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNER

KAELYN SCHMIDT DESIGNS

kaelynschmidtdesign.com

Kaelyn Schmidt Design streamlines home renovations by combining contracting and design services, focusing on practical, functional solutions while eliminating the hassle of managing multiple contractors, sourcing materials and staying within budget.

FINALISTS:

Done by K

Sarah Cain

FAVORITE LOCAL JUNK REMOVAL COMPANY

352 HAULING CREW & JUNK REMOVAL

352haulingcrew.com

Locally owned and insured, 352 Hauling Crew delivers reliable, friendly service with experienced professionals. They complete every project on time, offering personalized service, competitive rates, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

FINALISTS:

Bin There Dump That Big Kahuna Moving & More

FAVORITE LOCAL LANDSCAPING COMPANY

WEST FARMS

westfarmslandscapeservices. com

West Farms Landscape Services, owned by Nick, Tammy and John West, has provided irrigation and paving stone installations in North Central Florida since 1978, delivering custom, water-saving solutions with a strong warranty.

FINALISTS:

Sun Power Lawn Care

The Master’s Lawn & Pest

FAVORITE LOCAL MOLD REMEDIATION COMPANY

THE BEST RESTORATION

thebestrestoration.com

The Best Restoration offers expert mold remediation in Gainesville, FL, using advanced equipment and EPA-compliant methods to safely remove mold, protect health and prevent further damage—available 24/7 for urgent service.

FINALISTS:

Florida Top Notch Services

Mold Solutions of Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL MORTGAGE COMPANY

HMA MORTGAGE

hmamortgage.com

HMA Mortgage offers a seamless, turn-key loan process with clear communication at every step. They coordinate appraisals, title, payoffs and more, keeping realtors and clients informed from pre-approval to closing.

FINALISTS:

Hometown Mortgage Company

Chris Doering Mortgage

FAVORITE LOCAL PAINTING COMPANY

2 COLLEGE BROTHERS MOVING & STORAGE

2collegebrothers.com

2 College Brothers delivers top-tier moving services with a commitment to exceeding customer expectations. With locations in Tampa, Gainesville, and San Antonio, they’re known for reliability and professionalism.

FINALISTS:

Big Kahuna Moving & More, LLC

Two Men and a Truck

FAVORITE LOCAL OUTDOOR LIGHTING COMPANY

TWINKLE NIGHTS

twinklenights.com

Twinkle Nights Holiday Lights specializes in residential, commercial, and association holiday lighting, offering full-service installation, takedown, maintenance and storage to ensure clients enjoy a hassle-free holiday season.

FINALISTS:

The Master’s Lawn Care Gainesville Holiday Lights

COLOR PROS PAINTING, LLC

colorprospaintingllc.com

Color Pros stands out with their meticulous attention to detail. They use only the highest-quality products to protect your investment and are professional, licensed and insured.

FINALISTS:

Whistler’s Painting & Pressure Washing Gainesville Turnover Specialists

PEST ASSURED INC.

pestassuredfl.com

Pest Assured aims to provide a world-class customer experience using safe, effective integrated pest management to protect families, businesses and the environment from pests.

FINALISTS:

Newberry Pest Control

The Master’s Lawn & Pest

SUNSHINE SERVICES

sunshineservices.com

Sunshine Services provides trusted residential and commercial plumbing in Ocala and Gainesville. From repairs and drain cleaning to installations and emergencies, licensed plumbers deliver reliable, up-to-date service at competitive prices.

FINALISTS:

Quality Plumbing

JW Freeman

FAVORITE LOCAL POOL COMPANY

SOUTHERN ESCAPES LLC

southernescapesllc.com

With over 25 years of experience, Southern Escapes’ local designers and contractors prioritize professionalism, transparency and clear communication throughout every step of the building process.

FINALISTS: A Quality Pool Service Fun State

WHITSLAR’S PRESSURE WASHING

whitslarspressurewashingllc.com

Whitslar’s Pressure Washing is committed to top-quality service, specializing in efficient, customized solutions tailored to each project’s unique needs since the company’s inception.

FINALISTS:

Hydro Pro Pressure Washing

Instant Curb Appeal of Florida

FAVORITE LOCAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY

WATSON PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

watsonrent.com

Watson Property Management is a trusted regional leader, known for its friendly culture, strong customer focus, and unwavering dedication to providing exceptional, high-quality property management service.

FINALISTS:

KNR Property Management

Golden Rule Real Estate and Property Management

FAVORITE LOCAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

WATSON REALTY CORP

watsonrealtycorp.com

Watson serves homebuyers and sellers across Florida and southeastern Georgia, from St. Mary’s to Port St. Lucie. With offices throughout the region, Watson offers expert guidance and local real estate support.

FINALISTS:

The Mills Group | Keller Williams Realty Partners

Rabell Realty Group

FAVORITE LOCAL REALTOR (PERSON)

JESSICA J. WILLIAMS (WATSON REALTY CORP)

watsonrealtycorp.com

Jessica J. Williams joined Watson Realty Corp. in 2008, bringing a background in resort management and extensive customer service experience. She manages 150 properties and excels in responsive, organized property management.

FINALISTS:

Jamie Stevens (Boukari Realty)

Susan Hicks (Rabell Realty Group)

FAVORITE

KAELYN SCHMIDT DESIGN

kaelynschmidtdesign.com

Kaelyn Schmidt Design, based in North Florida, combines contracting and design services to simplify home renovations, focusing on practical, functional solutions that create beautiful, stress-free living spaces for clients.

FINALISTS:

Gainesville Kitchen & Bath

Quality DesignWorks

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTORATION COMPANY

SUNSHINE RESTORATION

sunshinerestorationfl.com

Sunshine Restoration, a family-owned company in Gainesville, provides 24/7 emergency fire, water, mold and storm damage restoration services, delivering the support and peace of mind clients need during crises.

FINALISTS:

Florida Top Notch Services

The Best Restoration

Gift Certificates Available

| 352-378-8125 | email: fls@floatinglotusspa.com

FAVORITE LOCAL SECURITY SYSTEM

TRUE FORCE ROOFING

trueforceroofing.com

True Force Roofing in delivers expert roofing services with licensed technicians, flexible financing, free quotes and a premium warranty—all backed by a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and quality workmanship.

FINALISTS:

Brehm Roofing Energy Roofing Companies

FAVORITE LOCAL SCREEN ENCLOSURE COMPANY

SCREEN DOCTORS

screendoctorsllc.com

Since 2004, Screen Doctors has served Alachua County, specializing in pool enclosure screening, gutter cleaning and covers, roof cleaning, pressure washing and repair services for residential properties.

FINALISTS:

Legacy Aluminum American Metals

CRIME PREVENTION SECURITY SYSTEMS

cpss.net

Crime Prevention Security Systems, a family-owned business, provides user-friendly life safety systems for homes and businesses, ensuring reliable protection and peace of mind for their customers.

FINALISTS:

ConnectSmart Systems Security First

FAVORITE LOCAL SOLAR ENERGY COMPANY

ENLIGHT ENERGY

Enlight.energy/Gainesville

EnLight Energy works with clients to reduce or eliminate energy bills through tailored solutions, home renovations and expert guidance for purchasing or building zero-energy homes.

FINALISTS:

Guardian Home Solar Impact

FAVORITE LOCAL TITLE COMPANY

HAILE TITLE COMPANY

hailetitle.com

Haile Title focuses on making closings enjoyable with professional service, affordable prices, and a friendly staff. They offer family-friendly closings and free consultations to ensure a smooth process.

FINALISTS:

Springs Title US Title

FAVORITE LOCAL TREE REMOVAL COMPANY

SHADE SHIFTERS TREE SERVICE

shade-shifters.com

Shade Shifters Tree Service, LLC is Gainesville’s leading tree care provider, specializing in high-risk removals, trimming, stump grinding, land clearing, debris removal and emergency services throughout North Central Florida.

FINALISTS:

Gaston’s Tree Service Daughtry Tree Service, LLC.

BEST WATER SOLUTIONS

bestwatersolutions.com

Since 1982, Best Water Solutions has been North Central Florida’s trusted provider of pure, clean water, dedicated to community health and wellness with over 35 years of experience.

FINALIST: Culligans

FAVORITE LOCAL WINDOW COVERING

ALACHUA BLINDS & MORE

alachuablindcompany.com

Alachua Blinds & More is a trusted local expert in Gainesville and North Central Florida, specializing in custom window blinds and shades with diverse styles, functions, and design features to fit any space.

FINALISTS:

Carpet One Floor & Home Budget Blinds

Nightlife

FAVORITE BAR STAFF (LOCATION)

KIN COCKTAIL BAR AND LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

Kin Cocktail Bar & Lounge crafts cocktails inspired by local places and memories, celebrating Gainesville’s unique spirit. Each drink is a tribute to the city’s vibrant culture and welcoming community.

FINALISTS:

Blackadder Brewing Company

Watershed Restaurant

FAVORITE BURLESQUE PERFORMER

PHOENIX MIDNIGHT

Phoenix Midnight, known as The Congolese Tease and Kinky Kindoki, is a neonerdy burlesque performer and Ashes Rising Burlesque producer, regularly performing at Gainesville’s top venues.

FINALIST:

Sally B. Dash

FAVORITE

CRAFTY BASTARDS

4860 NW 39th Ave., Suite A, Gainesville

Located in Magnolia Parke, Crafty Bastards is a go-to spot for pub food, happy hour deals, and a bottle shop featuring over 750 craft beers from local and national breweries.

FINALISTS:

Blackadder Brewing Company Daft Cow

FAVORITE LOCAL BARTENDER

MIKE CAMPBELL (CREEKS 19 TH )

11400 Turkey Creek Blvd., Alachua

As bar manager at Creek’s 19th in Turkey Creek Golf Course, Mike Campbell curates beer and wine selections for the relaxed bistro known for comfort food, happy hour, sports and patio seating.

FINALISTS:

Cory Mays (Watershed Restaurant)

Jesse Jennings (Kin Cocktail Bar)

HONEY BEE (FIRST MAGNITUDE BREWING COMPANY)

Since 2012, First Magnitude Brewing Company has been a community favorite, known for standout beers like Honey Bee Citrus Blonde Ale—light, slightly sweet and brewed with solarfarm-harvested honey.

FINALISTS:

72 (First Magnitude Brewing Company) Wicked Child (Blackadder Brewing Company)

THAT BAR AND TABLE

2725 SW 91st St., Gainesville

Brunch at That Bar and Table is more than loaded bowls and biscuits—it’s beignets, wraps, build-your-own brunch, and weekend vibes with bottomless mimosas and bloody marys to match.

FINALISTS: Northwest Grill Watershed Restaurant

FAVORITE LOCAL BREWERY

HIGH SPRINGS BREWING COMPANY

18562 NW 237th St., High Springs

High Springs Brewing Company, a family-owned business, began in a carport—driven by a passion for craft beer and inspired by the creativity of other breweries they admired.

FINALISTS:

First Magnitude Brewing Company

Daft Cow

FAVORITE

KIN COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

Each cocktail at Kin Cocktail Bar tells a story— from the Turner Classic with black sesame rye whiskey to the vibrant Purple Satin Sheets made with passion flower-infused vodka.

FINALISTS:

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grill Fluid Lounge

FAVORITE

MOTHER’S PUB & GRILL

motherspub.com

In 2007, two friends set out to open a restaurant and landed in Gainesville. They transformed The Shamrock into Mother’s, an Irish sports bar now beloved by locals and alumni.

FINALISTS:

Lillian’s Music Store

Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL DOWNTOWN BAR

KIN COCKTAIL BAR &

LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

At Kin Cocktail Bar, each drink pays tribute to beloved bars and restaurants. With nostalgic flavors and local inspiration, Kin invites guests to rediscover Gainesville—one memorable cocktail at a time.

FINALISTS:

Lillian’s Music Store

Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL BLOODY MARY

FAVORITE LOCAL HIPSTER SPOT

KIN COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

At Kin Cocktail Bar, every creation—from signature cocktails to limited-edition blends— honors local gems like Lillian’s Music Store, Madrina’s and The Top, crafting a nostalgic, elevated experience with every sip.

FINALISTS:

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grill

Embers Wood Grill

FAVORITE LOCAL HAPPY HOUR

KIN COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

Kin Cocktail Bar offers Happy Hour Tuesday through Sunday from 4 to 11 p.m., with wine by the glass, spirit pours, and cocktails like the Spicy Salted Plum Margarita and Lavender Bee’s Knees.

FINALISTS:

Watershed Restaurant Creeks 19th

THE TOP

30 N. Main St., Gainesville

Since 2000, The Top has welcomed vegans, vegetarians, and carnivores alike with 33 rotating draft lines and craft cocktails, all while delivering excellent food, drinks, and unforgettable experiences.

FINALISTS:

Kin Cocktail Bar & Lounge

Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville

FAVORITE LOCAL IRISH BAR

MOTHER’S PUB & GRILL

motherspub.com

Mother’s Pub & Grill, a local favorite, serves beer knots, Irish rolls, a Celtic sandwich with corned beef on Cuban bread, shepherd’s pie, pub-style fish and chips, plus classic drinks like Jameson car bombs.

FINALISTS:

The Bull Blackadder Brewing Company

FAVORITE LOCAL KARAOKE

LOOSEY’S DOWNTOWN

GAINESVILLE

120 SW 1st Ave., Gainesville

Loosey’s features American craft beer, homemade food, live music, and a relaxed vibe. Karaoke takes center stage every Saturday at 9 p.m., spotlighting local talent and fun for all.

FINALISTS: Creeks 19th

Party Time Karaoke by Denise and Joe

FAVORITE LOCAL LIQUOR STORE

DORN’S LIQUORS & WINE

WAREHOUSE

4140 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville

For wine pairings, weddings, events, catering, or cocktail advice, trust Dorn’s Liquors & Wine Warehouse to provide expert service and quality selections for every occasion.

FINALISTS:

The Good Pour Tipples Brews and Wine

KIN COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

Kin Cocktail Bar celebrates community with drinks like the Spicy Salted Plum Margarita— tequila, triple sec, salted plum cordial, lime, lemon and fief tincture—served all day and discounted during happy hour.

FINALISTS:

Las Margaritas

KIN COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave., Gainesville

Kin Cocktail Bar & Lounge is known for unusual cocktails and strong classics like the Old Fashioned, made with bourbon or rye, simple syrup and orange bitters for a timeless sip.

FINALISTS:

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille

KIN COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE

9 W. University Ave, Gainesville

Kin Cocktail Bar, located in downtown Gainesville, is a go-to spot for people-watching, offering a vibrant atmosphere and an expansive, creative cocktail menu.

FINALISTS:

Celebration Pointe

FAVORITE LOCAL ANTIQUE SHOP

CREEKS 19 TH

11400 Turkey Creek Blvd., Alachua

Head to Creek’s 19th on Thursday nights for trivia from 7 to 9 p.m. It’s free to play, with 20% off wings for first, second, and third place winners.

FINALISTS:

Crafty Bastards Restaurant

Blackadder Brewing Company

Shopping

FAVORITE “BEST-KEPT SECRET” LOCAL RETAILER

THE YELLOW ACRES BOUTIQUE

24875 SW 17th Lane, Suite 10, Newberry

Located in Newberry, The Yellow Acres Boutique offers women’s and plus-size clothing, baby to tween items, shoes, bows, jewelry, bags, toys, home goods and accessories for pets.

FINALISTS:

The Babies’ Room Jewelry Works

DECADES ON MAIN

18559 High Springs Main St., High Springs

Decades on Main blends vintage treasures with modern delights, offering quality products, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to your satisfaction.

FINALISTS:

Repurpose Store

The Mustard Seed Collection (The Seed)

FAVORITE LOCAL ART GALLERY

ARTISANS’ GUILD GALLERY

224 NW 2nd Ave., Gainesville

Celebrating over 50 years, the Artisans’ Guild Gallery features historic architecture, a porch swing, lush backyard greenspace, unique treasures, and intimate viewing experiences. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

FINALISTS:

Firehouse Gallery Newberry

The Brick

FAVORITE LOCAL AUDIO/VISUAL STORE

ELECTRONICS WORLD

1261 NW 76th Blvd., Gainesville

Electronics World specializes in designing, selling, installing and repairing audio, video, networking and control systems. With years of experience, they deliver customized, turnkey solutions to fit any lifestyle and budget.

FINALISTS:

Best Buy

Sound Ideas

FAVORITE LOCAL BEDDING RETAILER

MATTRESS FIRM

mattressfirm.com

Mattress Firm Gainesville offers expert guidance and personalized service to match the city’s vibrant, nature-filled lifestyle—ensuring restful sleep after exploring Paynes Prairie, Kanapaha Gardens, or historic UF landmarks.

FINALIST:

The Sleep Center

FAVORITE LOCAL BRIDAL SHOP

CHAIN REACTION BICYCLES

3409 W. University Ave., Gainesville

Serving North Florida’s biking community since 1993, Chain Reaction Bike Shop offers top brands like Scott, Velotric and Cannondale, providing quality bikes and trusted service for every rider.

FINALISTS:

Mr. Bike

Pedego Electric Bikes

FAVORITE LOCAL BOOKSTORE

THE LYNX

601 S. Main St., Gainesville

The Lynx, a new general-interest bookstore in Gainesville, Fla., highlights banned and challenged books, uplifting BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and Florida authors while fostering community, conversation and change through the power of stories.

FINALISTS:

Barnes and Noble

Book Gallery West

THE WEDDING CYCLE

2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 2-D, Gainesville

The Wedding Cycle specializes in affordable, pre-loved fantasy gowns. Owner Alisha Alsbrook, experienced in event planning and weddings, provides expert guidance to help customers create their perfect event.

FAVORITE LOCAL CAR DEALERSHIP (NEW CAR)

SANTA FE FORD

16330 NW US Highway 441, Alachua

Santa Fe Ford offers affordable new Ford vehicles, including the F-150, EcoSport and Mustang. Their dedicated team helps customers find great prices on a wide selection of quality automobiles.

FINALISTS:

Gatorland Toyota

Davis Chevrolet

FAVORITE LOCAL CAR DEALERSHIP (USED CAR)

SOUTHEAST CAR AGENCY

310 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville

Family-owned since 1979, Southeast Car Agency offers a no-commission, no-hassle car-buying experience with low-mileage vehicles and award-winning service recognized for ethics and customer satisfaction.

FINALISTS:

Santa Fe Ford

Tomlinson Motor Company

WEECYCLE OF GAINESVILLE

1405 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville

Weecycle offers a spacious 7,000-squarefoot showroom filled with baby furniture, toys and accessories, serving expecting parents, gift shoppers and families with a wide range of children’s essentials.

FINALISTS:

Just Between Friends - Gainesville

The Yellow Acres Boutique

HERE TO WOW YOU.

When it comes to upgrading your home, you don’t have to guess which floors will work in your space. With our room visualizer, see exactly how your new floors will look in your space before you make a purchase. The flooring visualizer allows you to experiment with different flooring types, colors, patterns, and textures to find the perfect match for your style and home décor. Whether you're looking for classic hardwood, cozy carpet, or modern tile, our visualizer tool makes it easy to bring your vision to life.

FAVORITE LOCAL FLOWER SHOP

THE YELLOW ACRES BOUTIQUE

24875 SW 17th Lane, Suite 10, Newberry

This charming rustic boutique in Newberry offers women’s clothing in sizes XS to plus, along with styles for babies, children and tweens. Shop dresses, pajamas, tops, pants and accessories.

FINALISTS:

The Babies’ Room

Down to Earth

FAVORITE LOCAL COMPUTER REPAIR SHOP

CRASH TECHNICIANS

Crash-tech.com

CRASH Technicians provides on-call support for commercial and residential Windows, Mac, and Linux systems, handling hardware upgrades, software solutions, network installations, email setups, and troubleshooting services.

FINALISTS:

Epic IT Solutions Dog-Bytes

ALACHUA FLOWERS AND TUXEDO RENTALS

14520 Main St., Alachua

Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rentals creates stunning floral arrangements, specializing in custom corsages and boutonnieres for prom season, expertly crafted to match unique dress colors with high-quality flowers and skilled designers.

FINALISTS:

Crevasses

The Flower Shop

FAVORITE LOCAL FURNITURE STORE

WOOD YOU FURNITURE

2400 N. Main St., Gainesville

Wood You in Florida offers a wide selection of solid wood, unfinished furniture in styles from contemporary to traditional. It provides custom pieces for every room, including outdoor furniture ready for finishing.

FINALISTS:

The Mustard Seed Collection (The Seed)

The Repurpose Store

FAVORITE LOCAL GIFT SHOP

THE YELLOW ACRES BOUTIQUE

24875 SW 17th Lane, Suite 10, Newberry

The Yellow Acres Boutique offers gifts for everyone—from pet supplies and toys for kids to jewelry, accessories, and unique home items like bottle openers, napkin holders, and pop-up bouquet cards.

FINALISTS:

AUK Market

The Mustard Seed Collection (The Seed)

FAVORITE LOCAL GROCERY STORE

PUBLIX

publix.com

Publix offers floral arrangements, fresh baked goods, deli favorites and everyday essentials at multiple convenient locations throughout Alachua County.

FINALISTS:

Ward’s Supermarket

La Aurora Latin Supermarket

BRYAN’S ACE HARDWARE

18482 High Springs Main St., High Springs

Since 1978, Bryan’s Ace Home Center has provided pet supplies, a gift department with full florist services and extensive lawn and garden products to the community.

FINALISTS:

ACE Jonesville

ACE Hunter’s Crossing

FAVORITE LOCAL HOME DECOR STORE

DECADES ON MAIN

18559 High Springs Main St., High Springs

Decades on Main, serving the community for 20 years, offers professional customer service, quality products, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. New owners since 2022, the store features over 5,000 square feet of shopping.

FINALISTS:

The Yellow Acres Boutique

The Mustard Seed Collection (The Seed)

FAVORITE LOCAL HOME THEATRE DESIGN

ELECTRONICS WORLD

1261 NW 76th Blvd., Gainesville

Electronics World is Gainesville’s top choice for home theater, surveillance and smart home installation, offering expert design, quality products and unbeatable service tailored to fit any budget and need.

FINALISTS:

Crime Prevention Security Systems

Sound Ideas

FAVORITE LOCAL JEWELRY STORE

HOUSE OF LUXURY @ HAILE

9116 SW 51st Road, Suite

A-102, Gainesville

House of Luxury @ Haile offers new and preowned fine jewelry, watches, diamonds, gold, silver, designer handbags and accessories, providing a unique selection at competitive prices.

FINALISTS:

Jewelry Works

Haile Jewelry

FAVORITE LOCAL LIQUOR & WINE STORE

DORN’S LIQUORS & WINE WAREHOUSE

4140 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville

Dorn’s Liquors & Wine Warehouse offers a broad selection of wine, beer and spirits, hosting tasting events and providing expert advice on pairings, event planning, catering and cocktail creations.

FINALISTS:

The Good Pour

Total Wine and Liquor

FAVORITE LOCAL MEN’S CLOTHING

MEN’S WEARHOUSE

6915 W Newberry Road, Gainesville

At Gainesville Men’s Wearhouse, customers can design custom American-made suits, sport coats and dress shirts, selecting from hundreds of personalized details for a perfect fit and style.

FINALIST:

The Shirt Shack

FAVORITE LOCAL MUSIC STORE (INSTRUMENTS)

GAINESVILLE HARLEYDAVIDSON

4125 NW 97th Blvd., Gainesville

Founded in 1993, Gainesville HarleyDavidson is a family-owned dealership that expanded its location twice, adding a preowned showroom and dyno tuning, all while prioritizing customer satisfaction.

FAVORITE LOCAL MUSIC STORE (ALBUMS)

FLASHBACKS RECYCLED FASHIONS

220 NW 8th Ave., Unit 20, Gainesville

Since 1986, Flashbacks Recycled Fashions has offered modern and vintage clothing for men and women, along with accessories, jewelry, collectibles such as cassette tapes, and more.

FINALISTS:

Hear Again Records

Sunshine Records

HOGGTOWNE MUSIC

2441 NW 43rd St., Unit 26B, Gainesville

Hoggtowne Music offers instrument rentals, repairs, and lessons in piano, guitar, ukulele, strings, woodwinds, and brass, taught by experienced instructors in eight spacious, on-site studio rooms.

FINALISTS:

Music Junction

Guitar Center

FAVORITE LOCAL PAWN SHOP

PAWNPRO LLC

25040 W. Newberry Road, Unit B, Newberry

PawnPro LLC offers jewelry cleaning, watch battery replacement, repairs, and consignment. Customers can also sell jewelry, precious metals, home goods, electronics, video games and collectibles in a trusted setting.

FINALISTS:

Midtown Jewelry and Loans

TBGoods

FAVORITE LOCAL PHONE REPAIR SHOP

ORANGE CARE

4110 SW 34th St., Gainesville

Orange Phone Care specializes in fast, professional smartphone and iPhone repairs across Florida. Known for quality parts, exceptional service and a lifetime warranty on most repairs, customer satisfaction is guaranteed.

FINALISTS:

T-Mobile

Batteries Plus

FAVORITE LOCAL RESALE/CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

DECADES ON MAIN

18559 High Springs Main St., High Springs

Decades on Main offers quality resale and consignment goods with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, ensuring customers feel confident their purchase is the right fit, no matter what they’re shopping for.

FINALISTS:

Sandy’s Savvy Chic Resale Boutique Weecycle

FAVORITE LOCAL THRIFT STORE

BUTLER PLAZA

shopatbutler.com

Butler Enterprises, founded by Clark Butler in 1939, has grown from a humble produce stand to a retail destination with over 1.5 million square feet, honoring Gainesville’s history and future.

FINALISTS:

Shoppes at Thornebrook Celebration Pointe

FAVORITE LOCAL STORE (OVERALL)

THE YELLOW ACRES BOUTIQUE

24875 SW 17th Lane, Suite 10, Newberry

The Yellow Acres Boutique blends rustic charm with modern style, offering curated women’s and children’s clothing—including shoes from infant to plus sizes—alongside unique gifts and stylish home goods.

FINALISTS:

Down to Earth Boutique 108 Vine

DECADES ON MAIN

18559 High Springs Main St., High Springs

Decades on Main is a favorite thrift store where yesterday’s treasures become today’s pleasures, offering a wide variety of unique finds with something special for everyone.

FINALISTS:

Sandy’s Savvy Chic Resale Boutique Flashbacks Recycled Fashions

FAVORITE LOCAL TUXEDO SHOP

ALACHUA FLOWERS AND TUXEDO RENTALS

14520 Main St., Alachua

Alachua Flowers and Tuxedo Rentals offers formal wear for all shapes and sizes, featuring name brands like Michael Kors for weddings, proms, homecomings and other special occasions.

FINALIST:

Men’s Warehouse

FAVORITE LOCAL WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

ILENE’S GATOR STORE

2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 19, Gainesville

Ilene’s Gator Store in Gainesville combines gator passion with fashion, offering accessories, activewear, belts, dresses, hats, jewelry and clothing at the city’s favorite women’s clothing store.

FINALISTS:

The Yellow Acres Boutique Down to Earth Boutique

Other Favorites

FAVORITE LOCAL AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

O2B

KIDS

O2bkids.com

Children at O2B Afterschool explore science, technology, arts, sports and more, engaging in activities like gardening, filmmaking, painting, singing, writing, dancing, and learning while having fun with friends.

FINALISTS:

FUNrichment After-School at Sun Country Sports Center Star Martial Arts

THE FLATS AT TIOGA TOWN CENTER

13085 SW 1st Lane, Newberry

The Flats at Tioga Town Center in Newberry offers elegant one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with upscale amenities, including a resort-style pool, trails, resident lounge, pet spa and nearby shopping and dining.

FINALISTS:

The Polos

The Standard

FAVORITE LOCAL ATTORNEY

KATIE KNEPPER (OSSI LAW GROUP, P.A.)

ossilawgroup.com

Katie Knepper joined Ossi Law Group P.A. in 2018, specializing in real estate, estate planning, wills, trusts and probate. A Gainesville native, she graduated cum laude from Barry University School of Law.

FINALISTS:

Ben Hutson (Hutson Law Firm)

Bill Allen (Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers)

FAVORITE LOCAL AUTO REPAIR SHOP

CITY AUTO REPAIR

4488 NW 6th St., Gainesville

City Auto Repair, a family-owned Gainesville business for over 40 years, is committed to honesty and integrity, offering trusted automotive services backed by more than 100 years of combined experience.

FINALISTS:

Rogers Tire & Brake Continental Imports

FAVORITE LOCAL AUTOMOTIVE SALESPERSON

JASON STEVENS (SANTA FE FORD) santafeford.com

Santa Fe Ford, north of Gainesville, offers a wide selection of new and used vehicles. Sales manager Jason Stevens was named favorite automotive salesperson for his outstanding customer service and expertise.

FINALISTS:

Julie Davis (Santa Fe Ford)

Elijah Miller (Gainesville Nissan)

FAVORITE LOCAL BANK

CAPITAL CITY BANK

ccbg.com

Since 1895, Capital City Bank has adapted to economic shifts and industry changes, focusing on personal client relationships and community service. Bankers volunteer thousands of hours supporting local organizations annually.

FINALISTS:

Seacoast Bank

Renasant Bank

FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS PHONE SERVICE

MY IT MASTERS

My IT Masters provides managed IT services to small and medium businesses, offering 24/7 monitoring, remote support and proactive maintenance to minimize downtime and protect data, ensuring smooth operations and growth.

FINALISTS:

AT&T

IQ Fiber

FAVORITE

CAMPUS USA CREDIT UNION

Campuscu.com

CAMPUS serves more than 125,000 members worldwide as a not-for-profit cooperative, returning profits to members through low- or no-fee financial services and competitive rates on deposits and loans.

FINALISTS:

Florida Credit Union

Radiant Credit Union

FAVORITE LOCAL DANCE STUDIO

DANCE SUN COUNTRY

suncountrysports.com

Dance Sun Country offers comprehensive dance education for children 2.5 and older, emphasizing technique, musicality and showmanship to cultivate grace, poise and confidence for lifelong mental and physical growth.

FINALISTS:

Momentum Dance

Pofahl Dance Studio

FAVORITE LOCAL DAYCARE

O2B KIDS

o2bkids.com

From dressing up in the Costume Corner to building castles, exploring science, creating art or tumbling in Open Gym, O2B Kids offers fun, child-led activities across all locations.

FINALISTS:

KidWorks Preschool

Premier International School

FAVORITE LOCAL DOG GROOMER (LOCATION)

BARKS & BOWS

18467 NW US Highway 441, Suite 50, High Springs Barks & Bows, High Springs’ first boutique pet grooming salon, offers expert, compassionate care with breed-specific trims and spa treatments in a cozy, stress-free setting designed for pets’ comfort and style.

FINALISTS:

Scenthound

Nature’s Pet Day Spa

FAVORITE LOCAL DOGGY DAYCARE/BOARDING

DOG’S PLAY

10730 NE 110th Ave., Archer

Dog’s Play offers full-service dog training led by Master Trainer Julie Hughes, the region’s only IAABC-certified behavior consultant and expert in canine behavior and agility.

FINALISTS:

Pet Paradise

Camp Run-A-Mutt

FAVORITE

curatololaw.com

María del Carmen Curatolo of Curatolo Law specializes in estate planning, helping clients prepare for incapacity and death to avoid probate, family disputes and taxes while protecting their wishes and families.

FINALISTS:

Katie Knepper (Ossie Law Group, P.A.)

Shannon Miller (The Miller Elder Law Firm)

FAVORITE LOCAL HOTEL

MICHELLE “SHELLEY” VICKERS

Schererconstruction.com

Michelle “Shelley” Vickers, marketing director and executive administrator at Scherer Construction, brings over 20 years of experience in construction, specializing in subcontractor coordination, workflow, safety and customer satisfaction.

FINALISTS:

Becky D (103.7 The Gator)

Kristin Chase (WCJB)

FAVORITE LOCAL FINANCIAL PLANNER

TRYSSA PACCIULLI (YOUR FINANCIAL LEGACY)

2114 NW 40 Terrace, Suite D-1, Gainesville

Tryssa Pacciulli, founder and lead advisor at Your Financial Legacy, brings 15 years of experience from Fortune 500 and wealth management firms to her values-based financial planning practice.

FINALISTS:

Reagan K Potts (Edward Jones)

Ashlyn Burtle (Edward Jones)

BEST WESTERN GATEWAY GRAND

4200 NW 97th Blvd., Gainesville

The Best Western Gateway Grand offers premier lodging and amenities for business or leisure travelers, featuring a full-service conference center and convenient access to Gainesville’s top attractions.

FINALISTS:

Hilton UF Conference Center

Reitz Union Hotel (UF)

FAVORITE LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT

CHRIS FLOYD (INSIGHT INSURANCE GROUP)

insurewithinsight.com

Insight Insurance Group provides a broad range of coverage options, including life insurance, Medicare products, individual health plans and small group insurance.

FINALISTS:

Kristy Moffat (Brightway Insurance)

Dan Shaw (Florida Farm Bureau Insurance)

FAVORITE

THE MOFFAT AGENCY: BRIGHTWAY INSURANCE

9127 SW 52nd Ave., Suite D-103, Gainesville

Brightway, The Moffat Agency offers expert insurance advice and access to over 100 carriers, providing more options and personalized coverage than traditional independent agencies through its Brightway network.

FINALISTS:

Florida Farm Bureau Insurance

Insight Insurance Group

FAVORITE LOCAL IT SUPPORT COMPANY

MY IT MASTERS

2020 W. University Ave., Gainesville

My IT Masters provides comprehensive tech solutions for small to mid-size businesses and residential clients, aiming to help customers maximize the benefits of their computer systems and technology.

FINALISTS:

CRASH Technicians

Gator IT

MARÍA DEL CARMEN CURATOLO (CURATOLO LAW)

curatololaw.com

María del Carmen Curatolo specializes in immigration law, guiding clients through complex processes to unite families and achieve the American dream. Fluent in Spanish, she offers personalized legal services for visas, green cards and citizenship.

FINALISTS:

Cary Torres (Meldon Law)

Laura de Paz Cabrera (dePaz Cabrera Immigration Law)

FAVORITE LOCAL LAW FIRM

SCHACKOW & MERCADANTE

lawschack.com

Schackow & Mercadante P.A. is a personal injury law firm serving clients across North Central Florida, including Gainesville, Ocala, Lake City, Hawthorne, Williston and nearby communities.

FINALISTS:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers

The Miller Elder Law Firm

FAVORITE MALE MEDIA PERSONALITY

ELIO PIEDRA

tufiestaradio.com

Elio Piedra, a Cuban-born artist based in Gainesville, offers world-class entertainment, including live Latin bands, DJs and jazz trios, for venues and events of all sizes.

FINALISTS:

Bob Rose (WCJB)

Lewis Stokes (93.7 K-Country)

FAVORITE LOCAL MARKETING

LIQUID CREATIVE

liquidcreativestudio.com

Liquid Creative is a full-service marketing partner that develops strategies aligned with clients’ goals, helping them achieve their objectives effectively.

FINALISTS:

SK Digital Strategies

The JAG Agency

FAVORITE LOCAL METEOROLOGIST

MIKE POTTER (WCJB)

wcjb.com

Mike, a Key West native, presents weather on WCJB’s TV20 Morning Edition and Noon News. He holds degrees from the University of Florida and South Florida and has worked at WCJB since 1992.

FINALIST:

Megan Borowski (WRUF, WUFT)

FAVORITE LOCAL MOBILE DETAILING SERVICE

OHANA PROPERTY SERVICES

ohanapropertyservices.com

Ohana Property Services offers mobile detailing, window cleaning and property management throughout Gainesville and North Central Florida, providing expert care for vehicles, homes and yards with personalized, professional service.

FINALISTS:

All Smiles Auto Detailing

K2’s Auto Detailing

FAVORITE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER

ADRIENNE FLETCHER

PHOTOGRAPHY

adriennefletcher.com

Adrienne Fletcher Photography is a boutique portrait studio specializing in customized portraits, aiming to deliver a seamless experience and the highest quality products and services tailored to each client’s needs.

FINALISTS:

Magnolia Lane Photography

Water Bear Photography

FAVORITE LOCAL PODCAST

BEN BOUKARI JR. (I KNOW A GUY)

Ben Boukari Jr.’s podcast, “I Know a Guy,” shares diverse and remarkable stories from everyday people, offering a platform to explore the unique experiences of individuals he encounters.

FINALISTS:

PHOS Life & Leadership

A Place to Call Home by Gainesville Health & Fitness

FAVORITE LOCAL PRINTING COMPANY

RENAISSANCE PRINTING

renaissance-printing.com

Renaissance Printing, with over 50 years of experience, is known for honesty and quality, offering services from project consultation and graphic design to printing, binding, mailing and shipping.

FINALISTS:

Bee Print and Design

Alachua Printing

FAVORITE LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

O2B KIDS

O2bkids.com

At O2B Kids, children learn colors, shapes, letters, sounds, numbers and counting while developing reading and writing skills through patient repetition and dedicated instruction.

FINALISTS:

Premier International School

Sunny’s Pre-School at Sun Country Sports Center

FAVORITE LOCAL PRIVATE SCHOOL

MILLHOPPER MONTESSORI SCHOOL

millhopper.com

Since 1977, Millhopper Montessori School has earned a reputation for quality and goodwill, remaining committed to a family-style atmosphere as it continues to grow.

FINALISTS:

Oak Hall

Countryside Christian School

FAVORITE LOCAL PROMOTIONAL PRODUCT COMPANY

LOGOKICK

logokick.com

Since 1998, LogoKick Custom Embroidery and Apparel has supported small businesses by delivering exceptional products that exceed industry standards and ensure uncompromising customer satisfaction.

FINALISTS:

Bee Print and Design EDGE Promotions

BECKY D (103.7 THE GATOR)

1037thegator.com

Becky D hosts Sundays on Gainesville’s 103.7 The Gator. A country music fan and Gator supporter, she began her radio career in the ’90s and enjoys dancing and karaoke locally.

FINALISTS:

Elio Piedra (Tu Fiesta Radio)

Lewis Stokes (K-Country)

FAVORITE RADIO STATION

103.7 THE GATOR

1037thegator.com

Gainesville’s No. 1 new country station, 103.7 The Gator features programs like Power Country, After MidNite with Granger Smith and Rise Up Country with John Ritter.

FINALISTS:

93.7 K-Country

Kiss 105.3

FAVORITE LOCAL SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

THE VILLAGE AT GAINESVILLE

thevillagegainesville.com

The Village at Gainesville is a 104-acre senior living community offering luxury rentals, resort-quality amenities, and services, including wellness, assisted living and memory support without large entrance fees or longterm commitments.

FINALISTS:

Atrium at Gainesville

Oak Hammock at the University of Florida

FAVORITE LOCAL SPORTS COMMENTATOR OR COLUMNIST

JEFF CARDOZO (THE TAILGATE) Wruf.com

Jeff Cardozo has been part of the University of Florida since 1997. A former All-SEC pitcher, he now broadcasts UF baseball and co-hosts Gatorzone, while announcing various Gator sporting events.

FINALISTS:

Steve Russell (WCJB TV 20 News)

Sean Kelley (Voice of the Gators)

FAVORITE LOCAL TALK RADIO SHOW

BOB ROSE SHOW

audacy.com/thesky973

Bob Rose, host of the Bob Rose Show on 97.3 The Sky, has been North Central Florida’s No. 1 morning source for over 20 years, delivering news, commentary, traffic and weather.

FINALISTS:

The Tailgate WRUF AM-FM

El Show de la Mañana Tu Fiesta Radio

FAVORITE

ACCOUNTING PERSONALIZED INC

4210 NW 37th Place, Suite 300, Gainesville

Accounting Personalized Inc. provides tax preparation, planning, bookkeeping and consulting for individuals, small businesses and trusts, offering personalized strategies and expert guidance to maximize deductions and support long-term financial goals.

FINALISTS:

Marc Schnoll (Sexton & Schnoll)

Jay Hutto (James Moore & Co.)

LITTLE RED THREAD TRAVEL –DREAM VACATIONS

sashine.dreamvacations.com

Little Red Thread Travel – Dream Vacations, founded by Stacy Shine and Steve Thompson, helps plan unforgettable trips, from cruises and all-inclusive resorts to African safaris, inspired by meaningful, memory-making

FAVORITE

WCJB

Wcjb.com

WCJB delivers the latest news from North Central Florida, with sports coverage led by anchor Jake Rongholt and weekend sports anchor Olivia Eisenhauer.

FAVORITE

WCJB TV20

Wcjb.com

FAVORITE

PAIGE BECK

Paige Beck, a West Virginia native, has anchored at WCJB TV20 since 1989. Known for her trusted reporting, she’s a longtime favorite, voted top local TV anchor by

Kristin Chase (WCJB) David Snyder (WCJB)

FAVORITE TV STATION FOR NEWS

WCJB TV20

Founded in 1971, WCJB-TV is the area’s only locally produced newscast, committed to delivering breaking news while actively supporting and sponsoring charities and events throughout the North Central

Chief Meteorologist Mike Potter, along with meteorologists Bradley Benoit, Danielle Van Pelt and Stuart Baker, delivers accurate, up-to-date weather coverage to WCJB TV20 viewers across North Central Florida.

FINALIST:

FOX Channel 51

FAVORITE

NEWBERRY ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Newberryanimalhospital.com

Newberry Animal Hospital, serving Gainesville since 1990, offers emergency, routine medical, surgical and dental care, providing comprehensive, compassionate treatment for pets in Newberry and surrounding communities.

FINALISTS:

The Veterinary Center at Hunters Crossing Alachua Animal Hospital

FAVORITE

SKY PALM STUDIOS

skypalmstudio.com

Sky Palm Studios formed in April 2024, merging Luke’s Media Company, founded by Luke Lower in 2020, and Short Media Group, established by Justin Short in 2018.

FINALISTS:

Moxie Media

Chris Watkins Photography

Magical Vacation Planner by Alice Kropp

DAWN GRAZIANI Sfcollege.edu

Dawn Graziani, a reading and writing professor at Santa Fe College, holds a Certificate for Classroom Teaching and Learning and a Canvas Silver badge. She is experienced in team leadership, training, and curriculum development.

FINALISTS:

Amy Ridley

Dr. Margaret Howell

FAVORITE

DAVID BAEKEY

David Baekey is an experienced biomedical researcher and educator in the University of Florida’s Department of Neuroscience.

FINALISTS:

Dr. Steven Sargent

Brent Sumerlin

TIPS FOR BEATING THE SUMMER HEAT

Stay Cool

WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN

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!

1. STAY HYDRATED

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.

2. AVOID GOING OUTSIDE BETWEEN 3PM AND 5PM

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.

3.

APPLY ICE OR COLD WATER TO YOUR PULSE POINTS

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.

4. CHOOSE COLD FOODS AND BEVERAGES FOR SNACKS

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 as a challenge not to use the oven or stove. As an added benefit, you won’t have to suffer from the additional heat.

5. SLEEP ON A COTTON SHEET

Cotton sheets are breathable and absorb 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.

6. TAKE COLD SHOWERS

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 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, as we learned during COVID times, a second or third shower has its benefits.

7. HAVE COMMON SENSE

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.

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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Reading Corner

“DON’T

FORGET ME, LITTLE BESSIE” by James Lee Burke

Someone’s watching out for you.

Yes, you’re a grown-up but it’s nice to know, isn’t it? Someone’s got your back. You have a Guardian Angel, a protector, somebody who’ll come running if you need them. Of course, though, there’s just one little thing: as in the new novel, “Don’t Forget Me, Little Bessie” by James Lee Burke, sometimes, you have only yourself to rely on.

The first time Bessie Holland saw the spirit, she was following a plow in a field not far from her Papa’s house. Papa was inside, probably drunk, and the spirit was leaning beside a tree, cleaning his fingernails. He said his name was “Slick.”

Bessie couldn’t see his feet, but she was sure they were cloven.

No matter. When the spirit told Papa that the people he worked for were fixin’ to take the ranch, Papa sent him running.

At just fourteen, Bessie knew that adults were a concerning lot. She knew the woman Papa kept company with was a madam, and that the corrupt local sheriff was trying to run her favorite teacher out of town for being a suffragette and a lesbian. And she knew that Jubal Fowler might peek at her under the outhouse door at school, and that there’d be trouble for it.

Which there was.

Afterward, she didn’t fully intend to shoot Jubal’s father, but that happened, too.

And then there was that problem the spirit pointed out: Papa’d been avoiding the oil companies circling his ranch and with his drinking and disappearing, things didn’t look good.

Yet, she was still a teenager, and adults were a trial. Take, for instance, when wildcatters tore apart the field where a little girl was killed long ago and two men had hung for

it. People started saying they saw Bessie here and there, causing mischief, and it wasn’t true.

Then again, it was her face in a photo of that hanging, wasn’t it?

So who was the spirit and who was not?

Set at the turn of the last century in still-wild southern Texas, “Don’t Forget Me, Little Bessie” is a wonderfully lawless but still moral tale that flirts with the paranormal and brushes against the Western genre, but that’s also reminiscent of bits of several period movies you’ve seen over the years. If that sounds fun to read – it is.

Author James lee Burke takes readers from dusty fields to a New York tenement and back to shake an old Holland Family tree branch. What falls are some rascals, several contemptible outlaws, and a girl who’s smarter than her years and certainly wiser than her elders. Readers, in fact, will love Bessie from the outset but you may struggle to remember that she’s just a teen. Keep your eyes open, too, for real-life historical people who are in the right places everywhere inside this book.

“Don’t Forget Me, Little Bessie” is part of a series but it can very easily stand alone. Burke fans will love it; if you’re not one yet, watch out for it.

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

BROTHERS

Alachua County Captains of Industry

WRITTEN BY JOANNA GREY TALBOT

Gainesville was the epicenter of industry in north-central Florida from the 1870s to the 1920s, mainly due to the railroad. 19th-century Florida roads were swampy and sandy, so access to a railroad was key to the success of any business. On February 1, 1859, the Florida Railroad arrived in Gainesville, and by 1861, it had connected Fernandina Beach with Cedar Key. Now, Gainesville had access to two ports, dramatically increasing the entrepreneurial possibilities of the city. Four Gainesville businessmen — Henry Forest Dutton and the Phifer Brothers (William, Henry, and Gus) — took advantage of that access to grow their companies and change the county forever.

HENRY FOREST DUTTON (1837-1916)

Henry Forest Dutton was born in 1837 in Ludlow, Vermont. He attended the Black River Academy and the

University of Vermont.

On November 6, 1861, Dutton enlisted in the Union Army as the captain of Company H, 8th Vermont Infantry. In 1863, he was promoted to major and then colonel. During this time, Dutton married Katherine (Kate) Cathan in Townshend on May 22, 1864. A few months later, on September 19, Dutton was severely wounded during the Battle of Opequon Creek (Winchester, VA) and was discharged.

After the war, Dutton and Kate moved to Beaufort, South Carolina, and founded a cotton-buying operation with their partner, John G. Nichols. In the late 1860s, they moved to Gainesville, Florida. Dutton first founded the H.F. Dutton Company on S Main Street, which processed and sold Sea Island cotton and manufactured and sold the Doig cotton gin, invented by Gainesville resident James Doig.

The Dutton Company employed over 100 men during

HENRY DUTTON AND THE PHIFER

harvest season and operated more than twenty gins. They also sold cottonseed to farmers and ground the discarded seeds from the gins for fertilizer. For several years, they were the largest dealer of Sea Island cotton in the South.

The cotton processed by the Dutton Company received the gold medal at the 1895 Atlanta Exposition and the 1889 Paris Exposition. In 1907, Dutton sold the company, and by 1910, the long-seed cotton industry was on the decline due to boll weevil infestations and the ease of growing short-seed cotton.

The cotton business was not Dutton’s only enterprise, though. According to his obituary, Dutton founded the H.F. Dutton & Company, Bankers in 1878. It was only the third bank in the state. In 1886, Dutton constructed the bank building at the corner of W. University Avenue and NW 1st Street, which still stands today. In 1907, Dutton decided to close the bank, but Major William Thomas (of the White House Hotel and Thomas Hotel) offered to organize it under a state charter with himself as president. In 1914, the bank was consolidated with the Gainesville National Bank.

Dutton’s third major business was the Dutton Phosphate Company, which operated from the 1890s to the start of World War I. The company mined rock phosphate from Fort White to Dunnellon and owned five mines in Alachua County. They shipped the rock to Europe, primarily to Germany, for processing for commercial use. In 1903, Dutton purchased the Ford & Hiller Phosphate Company of Ocala, making Dutton’s company the largest phosphate operator in the world. The company went out of business shortly after World War I began due to the closing of most European markets and processors.

While running these three major businesses, Dutton also found time to serve as a city alderman, president of the Board of Trade for six years from its founding, and president of the board of trustees of East Florida Seminary for several years.

On April 1, 1880, Henry and Kate’s only child, Henry Jr., was born in Gainesville. Henry, Jr. attended the East Florida Seminary, Phillips Academy (now Phillips-Andover Academy), Yale University, and the University of Virginia Law School. He traveled frequently and spent 18 months living in Cuba. Although she isn’t mentioned in his obituary, Henry, Jr. married Sarah Walker of Gainesville in New York City on June 11, 1914. They had one daughter, Katherine, in 1915. Henry, Jr. died in 1918 at the age of 38 from double pneumonia while on a trip to New York City. Sarah remarried in 1922 to Charles Strickland of Jacksonville.

In 1882, Dutton constructed one of Gainesville’s most beautiful homes at the corner of W. University Avenue and NE 2nd Street. Carl Webber described the house in his 1883 book The Eden of the South: “…the handsomest residence is that of Col. H. F. Dutton, of the cotton-buying and banking firm of H.F. Dutton & Co. It is situated on Liberty Street and has a most beautiful garden with lawns and walks about it, and fountains playing from an artesian well.” Sadly, the home was torn down in the 1920s to make way for the Florida Theatre, which still stands today.

Dutton died in 1916, and Kate in 1922. All three members of the family are buried in Oakwood Cemetery in Townshend, Vermont.

Top to bottom: The Dutton’s grand home in downtown Gainesville; An ad for the Dutton Bank and Cotton Gin in Carl Webber’s 1883 “Eden of the South;” A dredge boat at the Dutton Phosphate Mine in Newberry; images courtesy of the Matheson History Museum.

PHIFER BROTHERS

John Wesley Phifer and Hannah Asenath Hudson were married on November 15, 1855, in Union County, North Carolina. Shortly after, they moved to Campville, Florida. John was a farmer, but when Florida joined the Confederacy, he enlisted with the 7th Florida Infantry. He was captured at Ringgold, Georgia, in November 1863. He was sent to the Rock Island POW Camp in Rock Island, Illinois, for the duration of the war. On June 20, 1865, he took the Oath of Allegiance and was released to reunite with his wife, Hannah, and their son, William Baxter, in Florida. The Phifers eventually had two more sons, Henry Langdon and Joseph Augustus (Gus), all born in Campville.

The three brothers were motivated entrepreneurs and, over the years, owned and operated a variety of businesses,

ranging from mercantiles to naval stores to a bank. One of their first businesses was in Rochelle, where William and Henry opened a general store, also known as a mercantile. William served as the postmaster at Rochelle for many years, but moved to Nocatee (orange grove) and then Abbott (naval stores owner/operator).

Around the turn of the century, Henry and Gus moved to Gainesville, and William eventually joined them to start a naval stores operation in the county. Both William and Henry served as city commissioners, and the family attended the First Methodist Church. In Gainesville, the brothers opened the Phifer Brothers Department Store on the courthouse square, which was later consolidated with the Wilson Company.

Above and below: The Phifer State Bank in the 1950s by Elmer Harvey Bone; The New York Racket store in downtown Gainesville courtesy of the Matheson History Museum.

In 1899, they opened the New York Racket - “The Cheapest Store on Earth.” According to the University of North Carolina Miscellany blog, “During the PostReconstruction period, the Southern farm economy was in shambles–especially the credit system— because farmers received such low prices for their crops. On May 28, 1888, Henry Belk (future founder of Belk’s Department Store) opened the New York Racket in Monroe, North Carolina. The Racket’s business model was cash only, accepted no credit, offered low prices, and provided excellent customer service.”

The Phifer’s New York Racket moved to a new building in 1904 on SE 1st Street (where Bo Diddley Plaza is today) and in 1913 moved to the west side of the courthouse square.

In May 1907, the Phifer Brothers founded a private bank, the Phifer Brothers Bankers. The bank was granted a state charter in 1913 and renamed the Phifer State Bank. William served as the first president, followed by both Henry and Gus. In 1946, the bank joined the Florida National Group of Banks (Florida Bank at Gainesville), and in 1954, it joined the national system (Florida National Bank in Gainesville). It eventually merged with another bank, and the building was torn down in 1965.

William was the only one to have children. He married Florence Houston of Union County, NC, in 1890. Florence

was a 1888 graduate of the Greensboro Female College. They had three daughters who lived to adulthood: Mary, Helen, and Asenath. Florence died in 1904 due to complications from childbirth, so her mother, Emily Houston, came to live with William and her granddaughters.

Henry married Mary Ridenhour in 1899, but they had no children. Gus didn’t marry until he was 55. He married Nell Corpew Phifer, the widow of Gus’s first cousin, Martin, in 1930. They “eloped” in Gainesville by getting married at the First Methodist Church without guests and making no prior announcement. Nell had a son, Marvin, Jr., with her first husband, but he died in 1924 while trying to save someone from drowning in the ocean.

William died in 1928 from complications after appendicitis surgery. Henry died in 1938 and Gus in 1946. The three brothers and many family members are buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

The business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit of Henry Dutton and the Phifer Brothers changed Gainesville and Alachua County forever. Visit the Matheson History Museum’s The Alachua Phenomenon: Two Centuries in Florida’s Eden to learn more about the history of Alachua County’s industry and commerce.

Next issue’s article teaser: Educators of Alachua County