>> SPRING IS A SEASON OF RENEWAL AND FRESH BEGINNINGS. WHETHER IT’S UPDATING YOUR HOME, EMBRACING SELF-CARE, CELEBRATING LOCAL TRADITIONS, OR EXPLORING CREATIVE EXPRESSION, THIS ISSUE IS ALL ABOUT GROWTH—BOTH INSIDE AND OUT. NURTURE WHAT MATTERS, EMBRACE CHANGE, AND WATCH WHAT FLOURISHES IN EXCITING NEW WAYS. THIS SPRING, GO FORTH AND GROW!
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SPRING AROUND THE WORLD
From floral displays to colorful parades and traditional rituals, these events highlight how different cultures welcome the season’s warmth and transformation.
81
SPECIAL FEATURE:
A showcase that lifts up the kind words in customer testimonials for local businesses and organizations.
114
SPRING CLEANING SIMPLIFIED
Simplify spring cleaning with practical tips for decluttering physical and digital spaces, refreshing your home, and boosting motivation.
GREATER
15 // SOAK IN THE SUNSHINE
Spring in Florida offers outdoor adventures like nature trails, parks, botanical gardens, and springs, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
18 // A TEACHER’S TOOLBOX
A recurring feature dedicated to empowering parents and teachers with the confidence and tools they need to support development.
28 // YOUNG WRITERS STORYTELLING CONTEST
Calling all young writers! Enter our annual storytelling contest and share a heartfelt tale celebrating a father’s love. The winning entry will be published in our May/June issue—just in time for Father’s Day!
31 // SPROUTING SMILES
Brighten your community with DIY seed bombs! A fun, eco-friendly way to spread wildflowers and connect through nature.
37 // SILVER LININGS
The Harn Museum’s Silver Linings exhibition showcases 39 works by 25+ Black artists, celebrating African American creativity and art.
43 // THE FRUITS OF OUR LABORS
As part of a special series this year celebrating Alachua County’s Bicentennial, this feature explores the region’s deep agricultural roots.
48 // GLOW INTO SPRING
Learn how skincare is essential for hydration, protection, and renewal.
55 // A SEASON OF FESTIVALS
Celebrate spring in North Central Florida with vibrant festivals featuring art, music, food, and community gatherings for all.
60 // FROM LAYERS TO LIGHT
Refresh your wardrobe this spring with flowy layers, bold statement pieces, and playful accessories
67 // DANCING BEYOND LIMITS
Dance Alive’s Let’s Dance program empowers children with disabilities through inclusive, adaptive dance, fostering joy, confidence, and connection.
72 // SEASONAL SWITCH
Refresh your home for spring with plants, floral scents, and seasonal décor— incorporating vibrant colors and touches.
PUBLISHER
Charlie Delatorre
PRODUCTION DIRECTORS
Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp, Sandra Schultz
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ericka Winter Pauley editor@towerpublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Donna Bonnell, Dana Bryan, Ron Cunningham, Summer Jarro, Dr. Kaytie Milliken, Crystal Smith, Joanna Grey Talbot, Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd
INTERNS
Delaney Starling, Ashley Rodriguez
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com
Charles Rickie charlesr@towerpublications.com
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
Manager
Allie Gainous Client Experience
Around here, we always have reliable service.
As much as we love digital banking, there is no substitute for ‘analog’ client service in banking. Count on your Capital City Bankers to provide the solutions you need for your next milestone, no matter where you are in life. ccbg.com.
If you would like us to publicize an event in the greater Gainesville area, send information by the 1st day of the month prior to the next issue. For example, submissions for the March/April issue are due by February 1. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
We want to hear from you. Send your letters to the attention of the editor at 4400 NW 36th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32606 or editor@ towerpublications.com. Letters must be signed and include a phone number in the event we need to contact you. (Your phone number will not be published.)
OUR TOWN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY TOWER PUBLICATIONS, INC. REPRODUCTION BY ANY MEANS OF THE WHOLE OR PART OF OUR TOWN WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE EDITORIAL PAGES DO NOT IMPLY OUR ENDORSEMENT. WE WELCOME YOUR PRODUCT NEWS. INCLUDE PRICES, PHOTOS AND DIGITAL FILES WITH YOUR PRESS RELEASE. PLEASE FORWARD PRODUCT SAMPLES AND MEDIA KITS TO REVIEWS EDITOR, OUR TOWN MAGAZINE, 4400 NW 36TH AVENUE, GAINESVILLE, FL 32606. WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNSOLICITED PRODUCT SAMPLES.
A Publication of Tower Publications, Inc. 4400 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32606 phone: 352-372-5468 fax: 352-373-9178
EDITOR’S LETTER
MARCH/APRIL 2025
In Full Bloom
Watching my daughter grow these past 14 months has been the most beautiful reminder of how life moves in seasons. It feels like just yesterday she was taking her first wobbly steps last November—now, she’s running, climbing, and fearlessly exploring the world. Every day, I witness her making new connections, learning how to “be human” in the most miraculous way. It’s a front-row seat to transformation, a living example of how the seeds we plant—through love, care, and patience— flourish into something incredible.
And as she grows, so do I. Motherhood in those early months was full of learning curves, doubts, and figuring out how to “do it.” I was planting my own roots, navigating new terrain, and most of the time second-guessing myself. But this season, I am choosing to bloom. I am stepping fully into motherhood—not just as something I’m learning, but something I am. I’m embracing the confidence that comes from experience, trusting my own intuition, and allowing myself to thrive in all that I have learned. Just as my daughter runs forward with joy, I, too, am stepping into this new season with a sense of renewal and purpose.
Spring embodies this same spirit of growth. It’s the season where nature bursts into life, where what once seemed dormant blooms into its fullest expression. Just like flowers stretching toward the sun, we, too, are in a season of becoming. Whether it’s refreshing your home, embracing self-care, celebrating traditions, or tapping into creativity, now is the time to nurture what matters most.
So wherever you find yourself in life, let this be your moment to bloom—boldly, beautifully, and without hesitation. Trust in what you’ve learned, lean into your intuition, and embrace the joy of stepping into your next chapter with confidence. Change is constant, growth is inevitable, and the season of renewal is here.
Go forth and grow!
Ericka Winter Pauley, Editor-In-Chief
CONTRIBUTORS
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
RON CUNNINGHAM
is a career newspaperman who has been telling stories about FL and Gainesville for half a century. A UF journalism grad, he has been Tallahassee Bureau Chief for the New York Times Florida Newspapers and was editorial page editor of the Gainesville Sun for 30 years. freegnv.com
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
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
DANA BRYAN
is a journalism student at the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she loves to read, write amateur code and watch television. itsdanabryan@gmail.com
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
CRYSTAL SMITH
is a freelance writer and columnist born and raised in West Texas. She received her B.S. in Journalism in 2006 from the University of Florida. She is in love with the Florida landscape. ces03k@gmail.com
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.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FOR SPRING
Soak in the Sunshine
STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
Grab your comfiest shoes and lightweight clothes as you embrace the Florida weather this spring. While freezing conditions defined January, expect ideal conditions for jogging, picnicking, sightseeing, and much more. This month, take a chance on all the offerings of the great outdoors. While staying in can be cozy and comforting, nature can bring you peace of mind and many other benefits. Experts at the American Psychological Association suggest that nature can be essential to boosting our psychological and physical well-being. So, check out some of these suggestions when planning your next outing.
NATURE TRAILS
If you want an activity to clear your mind, look no further than any of the local nature trails Gainesville offers. Just about anywhere in town can be a nature trail, but there are breathtaking gems that can give you a peek into some
of the beautiful habitats that house abundant wildlife. Try a calm stroll or an entire hike through trails such as the Sweetwater Wetlands Park or the GainesvilleHawthorne State Park Trail. These are among multiple trails that offer scenic views for miles. You will see biodiversity at every corner, with different species of plants and animals across the trails. If you are lucky, you might even see a gator poke its head out if you look out from the pavilion at the start of the Sweetwater Wetlands Park trail. Just make sure you bring some water, sunscreen, and light attire if you plan to hike your way through.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AT THE PARK
Want to add some real-life ambiance to your reading experience? Consider taking your current read to one of your cherished local parks. Depot Park might be a good place to start if you need some ideas. Lay a blanket down
on the big mound of grass overseeing the rest of the park, and take in the natural ambiance as you flip through a cozy book.
You can also bring some friends with you and have a small picnic. Bring out the charcuterie boards or some subs to chow down on while you look out to the water, or even better, during sunset. Afterward, pack your things and take a walk around the park. Did you know Depot Park also has its own nature trail? So, if you are up for it, consider adding another scenic spot to your list.
While staying in can be cozy and comforting, nature can bring you peace of mind and many other benefits.
A STROLL BY THE LAKE
Visit the University of Florida campus to stroll around the iconic Lake Alice. This lake, which covers just over 1,106 acres, is a lovely spot to observe wildlife. If you ever want to see alligators, you will have a good chance of encountering a few here. You might also see birds wading in the water or flying around the lake.
Also, right across the road are the UF Bat Houses. If you stay on campus around sunset, you will see the hundreds of thousands of bats occupying the bat house and barn. According to the Florida Museum, an estimated 450,000 to 500,000 bats make up the colony, and the bat house and barn can house upwards of 750,000 bats. So, if you need any excuse to visit the vast campus, this spot may be your answer.
BOTANICAL GARDENS
Take a walk at either of the botanical gardens that Gainesville has to offer. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and Wilmot Botanical Gardens are two great spots to look at the beautiful and diverse species of plants and flowers.
If you plan to go to Kanapaha, be sure to bring a picnic basket and a blanket, as you are free to picnic close to the entrance building of the facility. Wilmot Gardens also has some ideal spots for picnicking at any of their large green expanses. One great spot is The Commons, located in the center of the gardens.
According to its website, Wilmot Gardens is best known for its Camellia collection, which includes 375 species and over 255 varieties. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens has the state’s largest bamboo display.
RELAX AT THE SPRINGS
Ther e are numerous springs to consider visiting all around North Central Florida. Some nearby springs include Rainbow Springs, Poe Springs, Ginnie Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs. Most of these springs allow guests to swim in the beautiful clear waters, and some also have options for canoeing and kayaking. At Ginnie Springs, guests can go tubing in the water, so they get to sit back and relax as they bask in the sun. If you visit Rainbow Springs, they not only offer the opportunity to go swimming or kayaking in the water, but they also have their own nature trail, where you can potentially encounter some captivating wildlife. Poe Springs also offers its fair share of recreational amenities, such as picnic pavilions, barbecue grills, volleyball courts, and play areas.
With so many breathtaking outdoor destinations to explore, spring in Florida is the perfect time to step outside and reconnect with nature. Whether you prefer a peaceful walk along a scenic trail, a leisurely afternoon at the park, or an adventurous day at the springs, Gainesville has something for everyone. So, embrace the sunshine, breathe in the fresh air, and take advantage of all the natural beauty this season has to offer. Your next great outdoor adventure is just around the corner!
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.
TEACHER’S TOOLBOX
By Dr. Kaytie Milliken
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.
In an era dominated by screens and scheduled activities, the simple act of outdoor play has never been more important for our children’s development. Dr. Sarah Thompson, pediatric development specialist at Children’s National Hospital, emphasizes, “Outdoor play isn’t just a nice-to-have activity—it’s a crucial component of healthy child development that impacts everything from motor skills to emotional regulation.”
W hen children head outside to play, they do much more than just have fun. Every jump, climb, and adventure activates multiple areas of development simultaneously. In fact, a recent study in the Journal of Pediatric Research found that children who enjoy an hour of outdoor play each day develop noticeably stronger motor development and spatial awareness than their peers who spend less time in nature.
It’s time to trade screen time for green time!
As she navigates an uneven terrain, she’s building core strength and balance. His social skills flourish when he negotiates, shares resources, and solves problems with his peers. Even cognitive development gets a boost—outdoor play offers ample opportunity to think creatively, assess risks, and make quick decisions. Dr. Michael Chen, environmental education researcher at Stanford University, says it perfectly, “The natural world provides an unstructured laboratory where children can develop critical thinking skills through authentic exploration and discovery.”
With the right tools and a bit of enthusiasm, your backyard can become a living classroom for children. They can observe seasonal changes, discover local wildlife, learn about ecosystems, build environmental awareness, and appreciate their local biodiversity.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY IDEAS BY AGE
Toddlers
• Nature treasure hunts with large, safe items like leaves and pinecones
• Water play with sprinklers and shallow water tables
• Simple gardening activities, like watering plants
• Rolling balls on different surfaces
• Exploration of different textures (grass, sand, smooth stones)
Preschoolers
• Balance games on logs or low obstacles
• Basic climbing
• Garden planting and maintenance
• Simple outdoor art projects with natural materials
• Group games like Follow the Leader
School-Age Children
• Fort building and construction projects
• Nature photography and journaling
• Advanced climbing
• Team sports and group games
• Fishing
Teens
• Hiking and trail exploration
• Environmental conservation projects
• Advanced gardening and landscaping
• Outdoor photography and art
• Swimming and diving
“I can’t seem to find the time!”
I know, right? I begin the day with the best of intentions, but the hours always disappear too soon. You may find it helpful to schedule “green time,” just like any other important activity. Consider using a consistent routine, like right after breakfast or before dinner, to make outdoor play a regular part of each day. Don’t be afraid to break the time into smaller chunks throughout the day, too. We tend to combine outdoor play with other necessary tasks, such as walking the dog, Big Brother’s TBall practice, and meals.
“My child is resistant to outdoor time.”
It’s common for our children to resist anything that feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Overcome a lack of motivation by incorporating the outdoors into play dates and family time. Allow children to help plan the activities, determine appropriate clothing, and how they want to document their adventures.
“We never seem to have the things we need!”
This week, my dermatologist reminded me to “make sure the boys wear hats and sunscreen” and to “throw on a UPF 50+ jacket” before we head out the door. “Yeah, sure,” I chuckled. To feel more prepared for spontaneous sunny weather, consider building an outdoor play kit or bag that’s by the door and always ready. Dedicate space at the door for sunglasses, outdoor toys, the dog leash, etc. Don’t forget to teach, practice, and thank them for putting items back in their place for next time!
“W hat’s in your Outdoor Play Bag?”
A ready-to-go bag, basket, or bin is your secret weapon for both spontaneous adventures and daily outdoor time with your kids. It’s always stocked, easily accessible, and ready to transform any free moment into an opportunity for outdoor play. Having a variety of engaging items on hand helps extend outdoor play time naturally as children move from one activity to another.
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Basic first aid supplies
• Small pack of wet wipes
• Reusable water bottle
• Snacks in sealed containers
• Hand sanitizer
• Wide-brimmed sun hat
• Spare socks
• Small magnifying glass
• Bug observation container with air holes
• Collection bags for nature treasures
• Small shovel for digging
• Sidewalk chalk
• Bubbles and balls
MONITOR & CELEBRATE PROGRESS
Changing anything, especially daily habits, can be challenging for the whole family. Adjust for age, have a conversation about the benefits of outdoor play, and develop a few attainable goals.
Consider adding a bit of excitement by creating a simple journal or photo album of outdoor experiences. Use this space to record ‘firsts,’ such as climbing a new tree or identifying a new animal, take ‘before and after’ photos of projects, and document physical achievements like distance hiked or running speed. Other ideas include designing a family badge system, a seasonal activity bingo card, or participating in a family challenge, like “30 Days of Outdoor Play!”
Consider using a consistent routine, like right after breakfast or before dinner, to make outdoor play a regular part of each day.
ALACHUA COUNTY RESOURCE GUIDE FOR OUTDOOR PLAY AND NATURE ACTIVITIES:
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
100 Savannah Blvd, Micanopy
Visitor Center: (352) 466-3397
Features: Wildlife viewing, La Chua Trail, hiking trails, fishing areas
San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park 11101 NW 120th St, Alachua
Features:372-4981Children’s garden, herb garden, bamboo garden
Grove Street Community Garden 400 NW 39th Road, Gainesville
Morningside Nature Center Spring Native Plant Sale (April)
Multiple locations throughout the city Gainesville Earth Day (April)
Visit Gainesville Nature & Parks Guide visitgainesville.com/outdoorrecreation/parks-places/
Alachua County Wild Spaces & Public Places wildspacespublicplaces.org
The benefits of outdoor play extend far beyond fresh air and exercise—it’s an essential ingredient in raising healthy, capable children. Whether it’s your toddler’s first nature treasure hunt or a teenager’s conservation project, every moment spent outside is an investment in their physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. After all, many of childhood’s most valuable lessons can’t be found on the iPad—they’re waiting to be discovered right in our own backyards!
HORSE CARE ALSO!
Serving: Alachua, Newberry & High Springs
Owner: Cyndy Shires
Cell: 352-870-5627
Home: 386-462-2262
Personal pet sitter and pet care in your home while you’re away.
Everything but Gas & Groceries!
SPRING AROUND THE WORLD
How Different Cultures Welcome the Arrival of the Springtime
As winter fades and nature awakens, cultures worldwide celebrate spring’s arrival with vibrant festivals, time-honored traditions, and joyous gatherings. From breathtaking floral displays in Amsterdam and London to colorful, high-energy celebrations in India and Thailand, spring is a season of renewal, transformation, and connection.
WRITTEN BY DELANEY STARLING
PHOTOGRAPHY: KAREN ROE
SPRING INTO A NEW SEASON
These festivities reflect how different societies welcome warmer days, blooming landscapes, and the promise of new beginnings. Whether through music, dance, or dazzling displays of nature, these global traditions offer a glimpse into how cultures embrace the magic of spring.
TULIP FESTIVAL, AMSTERDAM, APRIL 1- 30
Arguably, the most internationally well-known spring festival is the Tulip Festival, which is located in Amsterdam. The ‘Tulp’ Festival, as it’s called in the Netherlands, occurs throughout April when the iconic Dutch flowers are in full bloom. There are several ways to experience the gorgeous springtime color. The most iconic destination, Keukenhof Tulip Garden, is located 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam. It’s recommended that visitors rent a bike to enjoy their time in the technicolor tulip fields. If that’s not your speed, helicopter tours are also popular. The festival climaxes with the world-famous Flower Parade on April 12.
JAPANESE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVALS, MARCH 1 - MAY 31
Spring in Japan is synonymous with the blooming of the Cherry Blossom or ‘Sakura’ trees. The Sakura blossom is sacred in Japanese culture and, therefore, celebrated throughout the country, with festivals happening everywhere, from small towns to the capital of Tokyo. Each cherry blossom celebration differs, but they usually have
a few elements in common, such as cultural performances and the release of paper lanterns. Picnics with tea or sake ceremonies are the most common ways to mark the arrival of pink flowers. The region of Osaka is widely recognized as one of the best areas for Sakura viewing. Bloom schedules change depending on the year, so check the flower forecast before planning your trip.
SONGKRAN, THAILAND, APRIL 13 - 15
Songkran, or Thai New Year, celebrates letting go of the past year’s misfortunes and embracing prosperity in the coming new year. The Sanskrit word Songkran translates to ‘step into’ or ‘to enter.’ Festivities begin as soon as the sun passes into the Aries constellation, the traditional start of the new year. The act of pouring water on friends, family, or even strangers is a staple throughout the celebration, symbolizing the washing away and forgiveness of sins committed in the last year. Parades centered around the cleansing of large Buddha statues are common. When visiting Thailand during Songkran, be prepared to get wet.
WALPURGISNACHT (WALPURGIS NIGHT), NORTHERN EUROPE, APRIL 30 - MAY 1
Primarily celebrated in Sweden, Germany, and Finland, Walpurgisnacht marks the beginning of spring. In pagan times, the Vikings reserved the last day of April for fertility rites and celebrations for the spring to come. The day was
later named after St. Walburga, an 8th-century Abbess said to have cured illnesses after the region was Christianized. Today, Walpurgis celebrations differ from region to region. In Sweden, it is recognized with large bonfires on the night of April 30. Germans dress in traditional costumes and play pranks to ward off evil. Wherever you celebrate, there’s likely to be picnics, bonfires, and live music spread throughout city centers.
HOLI: FESTIVAL OF COLORS, INDIA, MARCH 14
India becomes an explosion of ecstatic color during Holi. This Hindu holiday represents the triumph of good over evil and is widely celebrated by throwing powdered color on everyone in sight. The roots of the festival come from a story in Hindu mythology. Krishna, a blue-skinned Hindu god, fell in love with a pale-complexioned milkmaid. Embarrassed by his blue skin, Krishna playfully colored the milk maids face during a game. Krishna is often portrayed as a fun-loving, playful figure. Festivalgoers honor him by spreading color and joy. Holi is celebrated throughout the country, allowing you to choose your own adventure into the festival of colors.
SEVILLE FAIR, SEVILLE, SPAIN, MAY 6 - 11
I mmerse yourself in Spanish culture at the annual Seville Fair. What began as a livestock fair over 150 years ago has become an internationally recognized celebration
of Andalusian heritage, drawing millions of people to the historic city each year. Women don traditional flamenco outfits, and men sport their best suits. Each day of the fair begins with a horse parade through Seville’s elegant streets. Festivities include flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and fairground rides. Pop-up houses or ‘casitas’ cover the festival, offering food and drink to festival goers.
FESTA DELLA SENSA, VENICE, JUNE 1
On the first of June, Venice takes a step back in time. Pope Alexander III and Emperor Frederick Barbarossa signed a peace treaty nearly a thousand years ago, ending the centuries-long feud between the papacy and the Venetian Republic. Celebrations ensued and a tradition that endures to this day was created. A boat flotilla converges in the Grand Canal yearly to observe the marriage between Venice and the sea. The mayor drops a gold ring beneath the waves and recites the ancient words “Let us betroth thee to the sea as a sign of true and perpetual dominion.” After the ceremony, boat races, live music, and traditional Venetian food are enjoyed by all.
RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW, LONDON, MAY 20TH-24TH
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show is the pinnacle of gardening perfection. Situated alongside the Thames River, visitors stroll through the
world-famous floral art gallery containing exquisite floral sculptures. The Garden shows showcase innovative landscaping designs that combine current gardening trends with issues facing the horticulture community. On the festival’s final day, flowers on display are sold to the general public.
STUTTGARTER SPRING FESTIVAL, STUTTGARTER, GERMANY, APRIL 19-MAY 11
Put on your Lederhosen and explore the 85th annual Stuttgarter Spring Festival. This traditional folk festival or ‘volksfest’ attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. At first glance, the Stuttgarter Fest may look no different than the traditional American carnival, but head into one of the beer tents for a uniquely German experience. If you want a more relaxed environment, head to the traders’ market to browse handmade crafts from local artisans.
No matter where you are, spring is a season of change, growth, and celebration. Whether it’s tossing powdered colors in India, dancing in traditional flamenco dresses in Spain, or marveling at a sea of cherry blossoms in Japan, these traditions remind us that the arrival of spring is a time to embrace joy, renewal, and the beauty of the natural world. So, as the season unfolds, take a moment to appreciate the warmth, colors, and traditions that make spring such a magical time—wherever you may be.
YOUNG WRITERS STORYTELLING
A Tribute to Dads!
Do you love to write and tell stories? Have you ever wanted to see your work in print? Now’s your chance!
In honor of father’s Day, our town Magazine anD tower Publications invite young writers in graDes 4-12 to enter our Storytelling Contest! This year’s theme is “A Father’s Love”—a heartfelt challenge to craft a story where the main character’s journey is guided by the love, wisdom, or memory of a father figure.
We know there are many talented young writers in our community, and we can’t wait to read your creative and inspiring stories! Teachers, this could be a fun classroom project—assign students a short story and host a class vote for the best submissions. Parents, grandparents, and mentors, if you know a young writer, encourage them to enter this contest!
The winning story will be published in our May/June issue—just in time for Father’s Day! A panel of professional writers will review submissions and select the most creative, heartfelt, and well-written entry.
This is your chance to celebrate the love and guidance of dads everywhere—we can’t wait to read your stories!
STORY SUBMISSION CRITERIA
YOUNG WRITERS: GRADES 4-12
Deadline: April 6, 2025
Word Count: 500-1,000 words
Story Guidelines:
• The story must feature a father figure or paternal bond
• The story must include a special memory, lesson, or act of love
• The main character must express thoughts or dialogue
• Nature must play a symbolic role in the story (e.g., the weather, a tree planted together, a sunset moment)
• The story must have an uplifting theme or moral (Think Aesop’s Fables!)
Submissions must include: Story Title Writer’s Name, Age, School/Grade Contact Information
Send your submissions to: editor@towerpublications.com
DIY SEED BOMBS
Sprouting Smiles
AND
TRANSFORMING SPACES WITH VIBRANT FLOWERS IS A SIMPLE YET POWERFUL WAY TO BRIGHTEN BOTH YOUR OWN YARD AND THE WIDER COMMUNITY.
This practice, often called “guerrilla gardening,” isn’t about rebellion—it’s about bringing people together through bursts of natural beauty. With these easy-to-make seed bombs, you can scatter joy in the form of colorful wildflowers, turning neglected areas into blooming havens. It’s a fun, hands-on activity the whole family can enjoy, and best of all, it helps nurture both nature and neighborly connections. Follow these simple steps and get ready to watch smiles—and flowers—bloom!
Supplies:
• 8-10 pieces of colorful paper
• Food processor
• 2 packets of wildflower seeds
• Flower cookie mold
• Strainer
• Sponge
• Large bowl
• Water
STORY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICKA WINTER PAULEY
STEP ONE:
Rip 8-10 sheets of colorful paper into small pieces. Then put them in a large bowl and add enough water to cover all of the pieces. Let the paper soak for about 15 minutes.
STEP TWO:
Now it’s time to put the soaked pieces of paper into a food processor. Add some of the remaining water that was in the bowl into the food processor. Now slice the pieces even smaller by using any of the different chopping features that are available on the food processor. Add more water if necessary.
STEP THREE:
Make sure the food processor is turned off, then remove the sliced paper and put directly into a strainer. (It helps to put the strainer over a bowl of some sort so the water can be collected.) Now take a sponge and press on the paper mixture. The goal here is to soak up as much excess water that the paper mixture may be holding. Once completed, the paper will still be moist but it shouldn’t be soaking.
STEP FOUR:
Create your first layer in the flower cookie mold. Put enough of the paper mixture to fill about half of the cookie cup, and then sprinkle wild flower seeds on top. About a pinch or two of seeds should suffice.
STEP FIVE:
Once the seeds have been added to each cup, it’s time to put the second and final layer of the paper mixture into the flower molds.
STEP SIX:
Allow the seed bombs to dry for about 24-36 hours. They don’t have to be bone-dry to be removed. More than likely they will start sprouting after two days—even if they are still in the molds.
STEP SEVEN:
Now comes the fun part … finding the spaces where you will lovingly drop some seed bombs. Neglected roundabouts, planters or flowerbeds work really well.
One of the best things about seed bombs is their versatility—you can toss them from a car window, drop them along a walking path, or even scatter them while biking. For the best results, aim for seed bombing in the spring or autumn, and if you can time it with heavy rainfall, even better!
Here’s to dropping happy bombs—ones that grow both flowers and love.
It began as a dream. We envisioned a place where families could sit back and relax after a long day’s work. A place where you could talk, crack a few peanuts and soak up some old-time atmosphere. A place that reflected the warmth and friendliness of downtown beautiful Alachua, Florida. That dream became Conestogas Restaurant.
Now, since September 1988, Conestogas has become an area tradition. We take pride in giving customers exactly what they want. Delicious hand-cut steaks grilled to perfection, fresh seafood, mouth-watering desserts, plus courteous service and a friendly smile - it’s what you can expect at Conestogas.
Reservations are never required, so y’all come on in, relax a spell, enjoy some true Southern Hospitality...and help yourself to the peanuts!
- Rick, Donna, Alex, Dixie, Melissa, Bevin and the Crew of Conestogas
Embracing Life
BY DONNA BONNELL
LOGAN’S LIFE
Spoiler Alert – Logan’s life of addiction and hopelessness has a divine twist with a purpose-filled destination. Many of his friends who suffered from the same disease had very different sad endings. Logan is driven to share his story with the goal of helping others who have lost hope.
Logan was born into a loving family. The only arguments he remembers are typical sibling rivalries. His parents owned local businesses and were involved in volunteering and the local government.
He is sweet, smart, and gives the best hugs. Logan and my son were close friends when they were little. They attended the same schools and were partners on their fifth-grade Safety Patrol Trip.
Slowly, things changed for Logan.
His earliest introduction to mind-altering substances was markers. He enjoyed the lightheaded feeling when he inhaled them. In middle school, he experienced his first blackout from huffing gasoline. In high school, his favorite thing to do was get high. Logan realized what he was doing was abnormal, but his compulsion was stronger than his willpower to do the right thing. Logan said, “I did not know I was an addict until much later, though, the disease of addiction was there.”
Lo gan went to college in another state without his peers who used drugs. If not for already being an addict, he believes those new surroundings were ideal for him to get clean. However, when he learned his roommate took Ritalin, his craving to try it overwhelmed his logic. Instead of asking for a pill to try, he secretly took one. Before long, he stole nearly all of his new friend’s stash. That was his first time stealing, and he did it so well that his colleague blamed it on other students in the dorm. His undiagnosed disease had not been treated and continued to progress.
hen his beloved older sister died in a car accident that involved drunk driving, he
dropped out of college. The year was 2002. Logan’s drug addiction took a deep downward spiral to a point of almost no return.
During his decades of drug addiction, he was in and out of detox, rehabilitation, and treatment centers. In 2007, he attended his first Narcotics Anonymous Meeting. Logan said he learned a lot about himself and addiction but was not ready for recovery.
In 2015, he faced his first arrest and imprisonment. As much as Logan hated jail, he could not stop using. Paranoia set in, and he began making dangerous decisions. Logan lost count of how many times he was incarcerated but remembers his last arrest occurred on 12/26/2019. The judge sentenced him to two years in prison or to get help at Metamorphosis. He chose treatment, knowing if he did not graduate, he would go to prison.
S uccess! Logan graduated after 13 months and has remained clean. Soon after, he became employed at Grace Marketplace, helping people experiencing homelessness. There, he felt true joy in helping those less fortunate. While serving others, he learned how to stay sober even on the most challenging days.
This true tale could happily end here. Yet, this sweet spring story of rebirth only gets better. Magically, his rough road took a sudden turn toward his real reason for living.
Logan was recently hired as a Peer Support Specialist for the Mobile Integrated Healthcare Team. They work for the Alachua County Fire and Rescue. This newly formed specialized team takes a holistic approach to healing (advocacy, education, emotional support, help navigating the healthcare system, etc.).
Ironically, Logan’s background in drug addiction and recovery, along with his caring, empathic nature, made him a prime candidate for this position. By fully understanding the desolation of this disease, he can relate and communicate with addicts from his heart. He is filled with gratitude for this opportunity. His final statement in our interview was for me to include, “I wouldn’t be alive today if not for my mom believing that I could change, even when I did not believe in myself.”
Maybe he needed this horrific life experience to become a hero in his new life-saving role. I am very proud of Logan and honored that he allowed me to share his journey.
The local Uncoast Narcotics Anonymous Hotline number is (352) 376-8008. There is help and hope.
DONNA BONNELL BECAME
COLUMN, EMBRACING
BOLD BRUSHSTROKES
A VIBRANT CELEBRATION OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART AND COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Silver Linings at The Harn
WRITTEN BY SUMMER JARRO
The Harn Museum of Art is spotlighting the brilliance of African American artists with Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection. This powerful exhibition, on display in the Gladys Gracy Harn Exhibition Hall until July 6 showcases a stunning range of artwork.
As one of only five venues nationwide hosting this traveling collection, the Harn is offering Gainesville audiences a rare opportunity to experience the depth and richness of Black artistic expression—while also inviting the community to engage through special events, workshops, and interactive programs.
W hile the artwork is showcased, the Harn will host events and programs to allow the community to connect with the exhibit and other museum works.
The Silver Linings exhibit includes 39 works of paintings, sculptures, mixed media, prints and photographs from more than 25 Black artists including Amalia Amaki, Emma
Amos, Benny Andrews, Firelei Báez, Herman “Kofi” Bailey, Romare Bearden, Betty Blayton, Beverly Buchanan, Selma Burke, Elizabeth Catlett, Floyd Coleman, Renee Cox, Myra Greene, Sam Gilliam, Samella Lewis, Glenn Ligon, Edna Manley, Howardena Pindell, Lucille Malkia Roberts, Deborah Roberts, Faith Ringgold, Nellie Mae Rowe, Lorna Simpson, Henry Ossawa Tanner, Lina Iris Viktor, Carrie Mae Weems, Charles White, and Hale Woodruff.
According to a press release, the exhibition is divided into five sections: the Spiral Group, abstraction, early figuration, contemporary photography, and contemporary figuration.
“It’s wonderful, and we feel honored to be able to bring this exhibition to the University of Florida and to the Gainesville community,” said Tami Wroath, the Harn’s director of marketing and public relations. “We are kind of the only venue in the southeastern United States. It’s
Henry Ossawa Tanner (1859 - 1969), Christ and His Disciples Before the Last Supper, 1908-1909, oil on canvas, 36 1/2 x 30 1/8 in. Spelman College Museum of Fine Art. Gift of Catherine and Chauncey Waddell.
being shown at the University of Michigan and the Hunter Museum of American Art, so it’s great to be one of those five areas that will showcase the artists in Silver Linings.”
The Spelman College Museum of Fine Art curated the exhibition and opened there in 2022 to celebrate the museum’s 25th anniversary. After closing, the museum partnered with the Art Bridges Foundation, an organization that helps form projects to share artwork with communities across the country, to have its exhibit shared. Staff at the Harn heard about the project and reached out to see if they could feature the artwork.
“A lot of our visitors are first-time visitors, so we hope that when they come there’s something for everyone— whether it’s going to be Asian art, contemporary, photography, or modern art. A lot of our visitors are also repeat visitors, so it’s exciting to be able to have different options and choices for them depending on their interests,” Román said. “Our main exhibition hall is where we focus most of our rotating exhibitions, but we have anywhere from two to three special exhibitions in that space. We think about it in terms of having a balanced portfolio of exhibition offerings to address a wide spectrum of audiences.”
While the artwork is showcased, the Harn will host events and programs to allow the community to connect with the exhibit and other museum works.
“It’s very exciting because although we do have some African American artists represented in the Harn collection, some of these works aren’t on view all the time because of different reasons,” said Dulce Román, chief curator and curator of modern art at the Harn. “... We were looking for a project to expand our representation of art by artists of African descent, and this was the perfect exhibition because it overlaps with our collection. [It] has some of the same artists but shows more representative examples of their work and is also expanded to include a lot more artists.”
The Harn regularly brings in new works and exhibits each year and maintains its own collection of works.
Roman is excited for the community to see all the pieces at Silver Linings, especially a piece by Faith Ringgold called “Groovin High.”
“It is one of her story quilts,” Román said. “It’s a very colorful, geometric piece that uses quilt-making techniques that were passed down by the women in her family, and it has a narrative view of dancers across a dance floor. She says it was inspired by a Dizzy Gillespie song of the same title from (1955). It’s a beautiful, dynamic piece with lots of color and geometry, and I think people really enjoy it.”
Harn Visitors viewing Groovin’ High (1986) by Faith Ringgold. Photograph by Shane Barrera
The Harn is hosting various free events and programs over the next few months to introduce the community to the work featured in the new exhibit.
The Harn currently has an artist-in-residence, Jessica Clermont, a graduate of the University of Florida’s School of Art and Art History. This is the first time the Harn has had an artist in residence. While there, Clermont will view the works of art and create digital media, paintings, ceramics, and fiber arts based on what she sees in the exhibition.
“ Visitors can see the art, but then they can see an actual artist creating works inspired by the art in the exhibition,” Wroath said. “Then visitors will also have a chance to do an art activity in our Bishop Study Center that relates to what they’ve seen Jessica doing in the gallery where the exhibition is.
Visitors can participate from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday, March 6 to June 26.
The Harn is also organizing a K-12 Art Educator Workshop event from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on March 26.
The free workshop is open to K-12 art educators in Alachua County. During the event, attendees will see the Silver Linings exhibition and participate in a hands-on artmaking experience with Clermont.
“ We often work with educators to provide ideas on how their curriculum can connect with an exhibition that’s here, or give them an idea of an art activity that they can maybe do in the classroom with kids,” Wroath said. [It’s] just inviting the educators in to look at the exhibition, to
be inspired by it, and then there’s an art activity you could take back to the classroom.”
UF students who register will participate in a workshop with Clermont from noon to 4 p.m. on March 29. In this workshop, they will collaborate with Clermont and learn about her work and art practices.
The Harn is also bringing back its Community Day, a museum-wide celebration of Silver Linings.
The event, which will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on May 31, will include exhibition tours, live entertainment, refreshments, a talk led by Clermont, and more.
Staff at the Harn have organized the event in the past, but it has been a few years since then.
“ We want people to feel like this is their art museum,” Wroath said. “It’s a place where they can relax, feel comfortable, and view works of art. We’re hoping that we’ll bring greater visibility to the museum and just letting everyone know you’re welcome to come visit the museum, help us celebrate this exhibition that we were able to bring to Florida and Gainesville, and then let them know that we have this kind of celebratory atmosphere.”
Even more community events are available while the Silver Linings exhibit is at the Harn. For more information, visit harn.ufl.edu/exhibitions/silver-linings.
“ We’re really happy to have the entire exhibition and a lot of the programs that are taking place in connection with it,” Wroath said.
Carrie Mae Weems (b. 1953), Color Real and Imagined , 2014, archival inkjet print with silkscreen color blocks, 54 3/4 x 38 3/4 in. Spelman College Museum of Fine Art. Gift of Laural Shackelford.
Artist-in-Residence Jessica Clermont. Photograph by Beatrice Bizarro Gil
Every day, clients contact 211 to access free and confidential crisis and emergency counseling, disaster assistance, food, stable housing and utilities payment assistance, employment services, veterans services, childcare and family services, and more.
No matter the situation, the specialists at 211 listen, identify underlying problems, and connect people in need with resources and services in their community that improve their lives. Help is just a phone call or text away.
Free. Confidential. Multilingual. Available 24/7.
Dial 2-1-1 or (352) 332-4636
Text your zip code to 898-211
Saturday,
ALACHUA COUNTY HISTORY
AGRICULTURAL FESTIVALS IN ALACHUA COUNTY
Celebrating the Fruits of Our Labors
WRITTEN BY JOANNA GREY TALBOT
In celebration of Alachua County’s 200th birthday on December 29, 2024, Joanna Grey Talbot of the Matheson History Museum will share a series of articles about Alachua County’s history this year.
It is impossible to discuss the history of Alachua County without exploring the impact of agriculture. From small farms that supported single families to plantations that utilized enslaved laborers to today’s commercial farms, agriculture has always been a major industry in the area and throughout Florida. As the population of Alachua County began to grow exponentially in the 20th century, people began to look for ways to celebrate these products and come together as a community.
NEWBERRY WATERMELON FESTIVAL
After World War II, returning veterans in Newberry wanted to throw a party and invite the whole town. They knew they needed a theme to entice visitors so they settled
on the watermelon, one of the town’s main crops.
On June 21, 1946, Newberry’s American Legion Post 149 held the first Newberry Watermelon Festival. Today, it is the state’s oldest continually running watermelon festival (maybe even the country!). June was chosen to coincide with the harvesting and shipping the area’s watermelon crop. The first 23 years of the festival were held at the Newberry Legion Recreation Center, which included a skating rink.
The day began with a light rain, but by the end of the festival, over 2,500 people had attended. According to the Gainesville Sun, visitors “ate heartily of the barbecue, munched ‘snowballs,’ drank soft drinks, but hardly dented the piles of fat watermelons the festival celebrated.” The
festival also included a Watermelon Queen pageant and prizes for the largest watermelon.
The first Watermelon Queen was Catherine “Toby” Crawford of Newberry. After her coronation, visitors enjoyed round and square dancing in the skating rink to the music of the Jubilee Hill Billies—eventually, the dancing after the coronation became known as the Coronation Ball.
Florida continues to be the top producer of watermelons, so the festival has never been short on donations of the fruit. Every year, a volunteer with a machete spends the day cutting up watermelons and handing out free slices.
The festivals of the 1950s included a demonstration of P-80 jets from the Florida Air National Guard in Jacksonville, a rodeo presented by Circle M Ranch of Gainesville, games, relay races, and the addition of an annual parade.
In 1955, the festival included Tom Moore’s “True or False” show. Participants could win “a refrigerator, dryer, laundromat, gas range, fishing gear, and cameras.”
O ne of the most popular contests has always been the winner of the largest watermelon. The sizes varied, but some of the biggest were over 160 pounds. After the winners are announced, the watermelons are auctioned off, and the money is used for the following year’s festival. In some years,
the watermelon was shipped to high-ranking officials, such as President Truman in 1953.
The Lester Hodge Trophy is given to the winner of the largest melon, and the Tom Roland Trophy is given to the largest shipping variety melon winner.
In the 1960s, the first “baby parade,” with participants ranging from 6 months to 4 years, was added, and a second day of festivities was held. In 1969, the festival moved to the American Legion’s new building on the outskirts of town.
In the “baby parade,” prizes were given for various categories. Mary Hope Sheppard of Cross City and Charlye Martin of Gainesville were the first winners of Most Beautiful and Most Handsome. They were also named the junior king and queen of the festival.
The American Legion hosted the festival for the last time in 1987. The following year, it handed the reins to a committee of local volunteers and the Chamber of Commerce. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the festival was held at Newberry High School and became a fundraiser for restoring the Little Red School House.
In 1996, the Watermelon festival went “back home” to the American Legion Hall, and the granddaughter of the first Watermelon Queen,
(Above) Harvesting a Crop of Watermelons in Florida, image courtesy of Matheson History Museum. (Right) Ad for the Newberry Watermelon Festival, courtesy of The Gainesville Sun—June 16, 1957.
Mother and daughter photographed in a watermelon patch. Image courtesy of the Elmer Harvey Bone collection.
Christy Rutledge, was crowned Queen.
The festival was held in various places in the early 2000s. Still, it always shared the same traditions with visitors: seed-spitting contests, watermelon rolling contests, a parade and pageant, and more watermelon than you could imagine. The date was also moved up to May to help combat the heat, and it is still held today.
WINDSOR ZUCCHINI FESTIVAL
“ Who in the world ever heard of a squash festival??” That’s the question co-founder Bobbi Walton asked Robert Hutchinson when he suggested they name Windsor’s new annual festival for the zucchini, one of many crops grown in the area. They had been discussing ways to support the town’s volunteer fire department and decided a festival would be a fun way to raise money and unite the community.
The Windsor Zucchini Festival was launched in 1982. The Friday night before, a group of volunteers gathered to slice, dice, and peel zucchinis for the barbecue chicken lunch, a tradition that continues today.
The festival was an immediate hit. Due to the festival committee’s efforts, the volunteer fire department was able to pay off the 10-year mortgage for their building in seven years. Proceeds continue to support the Windsor Fire Department as well as community projects.
The Windsor Zucchini Festival has something for everyone: a fun run called the Zucchinathon, a beauty pageant for ages 1 month to 12 years (Duke of Zukes and Zu-Queenies), a CookA-Zuke cook-off; poetry contest (let me count the ways that I love zucchini…), raffle and cake walk, live music, barbecued chicken lunch, horseshoe tournament, and the contest for the biggest, strangest, ugliest, and best-carved zucchinis. The Kazucchini Marching Band has even been known to make appearances.
In 1984, organizers opened the festival to local artisans and craftsmen to sell wares. That same year, the state legislature declared Windsor the “Zucchini Capital of Florida.”
The town bedecks itself in all shades of green in preparation for the festival. In 1990, the Gainesville Sun described Windsor during the festival as being “greener ‘n’ a tornado in a bank vault.”
The festival was not held from 1994 to 1997 but was brought back in 1998. The line for fried zucchini was longer than ever, and people were eager to enter their recipes into the different Cook-A-Zuke categories, which included appetizers, breads, and desserts.
The Windsor Zucchini Festival is still going strong today. Join them on May 10th to celebrate community and all things zucchini!
TUNG BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
The tung tree is native to China, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
(Top) The cover of The Windsor Zucchini Cookbook, 1977. Image courtesy of the Matherson History Museum. (Middle and Bottom) New Legion Hall in Newberry, image courtesy of The Gainesville Sun-June 22, 1969.
In the early 1900s, it was introduced to the U.S. Initially, it was planted in California, but the climate was too dry. In 1905, it was successfully introduced from Florida to Texas.
Harry W. Bennett, the former president of Wheatsworth, Inc. of New York, and his family had been wintering in Florida for 15 years when he learned that the tung tree was being introduced in Alachua County. He had seen the trees growing wild on a visit to China and decided to plant his own grove. By 1936, Tung Acres near LaCrosse was 2,000 acres and home to 12,000 trees.
In 1932, the first train tank car of American tung oil was filled by Alachua Tung Oil Company (later Suntec Paints). According to UF professor of botany Dr. Francis “Jack” Putz, “Here in Florida, it [tung oil] was mostly used in paints, lacquers, and varnishes but also as an electrical insulator, in the manufacture of linoleum and oilcloth, and India ink.”
Bennett constantly praised the tung tree and wanted to find a way to celebrate it and show people what a difference it could make for Alachua County and Florida. In 1931, he suggested holding a festival in Gainesville, and the volunteer committee voted him president.
After almost two years of the Great Depression, people were looking for a reason to celebrate. The festival committee decided that the events would be spread out over a week and would include motorcades to the tung tree groves, a parade of cars and floats, a pageant to name the Tung Blossom Queen, and a ball in her honor at the Twentieth Century Club, a band concert and military parade on UF campus, and an April Fools Frolic parade and party on the downtown square.
The committee sent out 2,000 invitations and advertised the festival on WRUF, sold banners for 25 cents to be put on the bumpers of cars and buses, and anyone who bought an artificial tung blossom created by Mrs. Shepherd of the Art & Gift Shop could also cast a vote for the Tung Blossom
Queen.
The festival caught the attention of Paramount News, which produced movies for their newsreel service. They sent their “big sound truck to take shots of the feature events of the Tung Blossom Festival.”
Helen Hobbs of Alachua was named the first Tung Blossom Queen and rode in the parade with her maids of honor.
The 1932 festival added a food exposition and automobile show at the county fairgrounds, a track and field event for all Alachua County schools, and a baseball game between the Gainesville Hav-A-Tampas and the Saint Augustine Saints. Over 15,000 people watched the parade of floats and cars.
Myrtice Harvey of Waldo was named the Tung Blossom Queen and chose Miss Edith Moran of Waldo as her first maid of honor. One of the prizes was an all-expenses paid trip by boat to New York City for the two young women on the Clyde Line.
Sadly, the festival was never held again due to a lack of finances. According to Professor Putz, the tung tree industry eventually failed in Florida due to late frosts, competition from other oils, the toxicity of the tung nuts, and a series of hurricanes.
Visit the Matheson History Museum starting March 12 to learn more about Alachua County’s rich history in the new exhibition, The Alachua Phenomenon: Two Centuries in Florida’s Eden.
The Museum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and admission is free. Next issue’s article teaser: Early Tourism in Alachua County
(Left) Tung tree in bloom in Gainesville. Image courtesy of the Matheson History Museum. (Center) The Baird Hardware float is pictured in one of the Tung Blossom parades. Courtesy of the ACLD. (Right) Photo from the Tung Blossom Parade, courtesy of the Matheson History Museum.
GAINESVILLE
GLOW INTO SPRING
Skincare Tips for the Season
Skincare in the spring is like a picnic at Depot Park. They just go together. Cool water caresses your face in a refreshing splash from your bathroom faucet after a long day of work or at the start of an eventful day. Promptly followed is a thick cream pressed and massaged into your pores to keep the skin firm and moisturized. It’s a routine built on the foundation of self-care and maintenance. Join me to learn about skin and skincare for spring.
WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN
SKIN MAINTENANCE: INTERNATIONAL OR LOCAL
The obsession with skincare is a worldwide phenomenon. Some of the best skincare products are known to be in Korea, Japan, and France. However, these products are all made available to you, as if they were local, through websites like Amazon and supermarkets like Walmart. Of course, the U.S. also has created some incredible skincare products that can be purchased at the same locations. Korean and Japanese products are known to use cutting-edge ingredients that set the tone in the skincare market, like green tea, squalene, or snail mucin. Typically, the focus of these products is on the prevention of problems and maintaining good skin. French skincare favors thick creams, balms, and oils that promote smooth skin and lock in moisture. The U.S. advertises skincare products to help fix existing skin problems like acne and hyperpigmentation. Explore your options the next time you’re in-store or scrolling online.
A key point in maintaining healthy skin is keeping a healthy skin barrier.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS:
1) CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser became popular on TikTok for its gentle, fragrance-free, and healing properties. It helps restore the skin’s natural protective barrier by hydrating and moisturizing it. The National Eczema Association has also certified it.
https://tinyurl.com/msse7hyz
2) Mediheal N.M.F. Intensive Hydrating Serum
This serum contains popular, medically backed ingredients that hydrate the skin, such as hyaluronic acid and mineral-rich seawater. Not too thick and not too light, it is a perfect substitute for moisturizer during the spring for those with normal or oily skin.
Popular with dermatologists, Elta MD Sunscreen works well with all skin types, but especially sensitive and acne-prone skin. It combines effective, soothing, and nourishing ingredients to protect the skin from sun damage.
https://tinyurl.com/pvjrrd47
Wake up tomorrow and start your skincare journey! Don’t let another beautiful spring day pass without a clean, hydrated, and moisturized face.
SPRING FESTIVITIES
CELEBRATING SPRING IN NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA
A Season of Festivals
WRITTEN BY DELANEY STARLING
AS THE WARMTH OF SPRING SETTLES OVER NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA, GAINESVILLE BURSTS INTO LIFE WITH AN ARRAY OF VIBRANT FESTIVALS THAT CELEBRATE ART, MUSIC, FOOD, AND NATURE.
W hether you’re a culture enthusiast eager to explore local artistry, a foodie looking to indulge in craft brews and gourmet bites, or a nature lover ready to bask in the beauty of blooming wildflowers, there’s something for everyone. From bustling downtown streets filled with live performances to tranquil botanical gardens hosting spring celebrations, these festivals provide the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, support local businesses, and embrace the season’s magic. No matter your interests, Gainesville’s spring festival lineup invites you to step outside, soak up the sunshine, and make lasting memories.
SANTA
FE SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL, APRIL 12 – 13
Santa Fe College Northwest Campus, 3000 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL 32606 sfcollege.edu/spring-arts
Experience art and culture on Santa Fe College’s beautiful Northwest campus. During the two-day festival, visitors are encouraged to interact with emerging and established visual artists, showcas ing the best the arts school offers. With food trucks, live music, and a kids zone, the 53rd annual Spring Arts Festival has something for everyone. The Kika Silva Planetarium, Museum of Earth Sciences, and the Santa Fe Teaching Zoo will also be open to festivalgoers.
Help save the planet while sipping an ice-cold brew at the 10th annual Tree Fest. Hosted at Swamp Head Brewery, every beer purchased equals four trees planted by the Alachua Conservation Trust. Besides drinking beer, entertainment includes live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities such as animal interactions and a bounce house. You can help plant trees even if you’re not a beer lover. Every food item bought contributes to one tree. Tree Fest has planted over 800,000 longleaf pines since it began in 2015.
With something for every age and interest, there’s no better time to step outside, connect with others, and make unforgettable memories.
KANAPAHA BOTANICAL GARDENS SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL MARCH 22 – 23
Soak in the beauty of spring at Gainesville’s premier horticulture event. The 32nd annual Spring Garden Festival hosted by Kanapaha Gardens is a great spring activity for plant lovers or anyone looking to enjoy the season in full bloom. The entry ticket gives visitors access to more than 100 vendors and the ability to roam freely around Kanapaha’s 68 acres of pristine gardens. After browsing the diverse greenery, listen to some live music or grab a bite from a food truck.
BARD & BROADSIDE NORTH CENTRAL POETRY FESTIVAL, APRIL 4 -13
Various locations across Gainesville, FL (check festival website for details) artspeaksgnv.org/north-central-florida-poetry-festival
Calling all word smiths! Bard & Broadside North Central Poetry Festival is for writers and poetry lovers alike. Spread around multiple locations across Gainesville, the week of April 4th is filled with creative workshops, poetry competitions, open mic nights, and much more. Poets will get the chance to learn from award-winning poet Lola Haskins during a creative writing workshop on the last day of the festival. All events are Free and first come, first served.
Spring is in full bloom—celebrate with beer, gardens, and a great cause! At Tree Fest, every beer plants four trees. Prefer flowers? Explore 68 acres at Kanapaha’s Spring Garden Festival. Love craft brews? Sample unlimited pours at Hogtown Beer Fest. Cheers to springtime fun!
Visit the Newberry Main Street Spring Festival for a charming small-town feel. Located in Newberry’s historic district, explore the classic festival offerings along the town’s main street. The whole family can enjoy a day with live music, vendors, food trucks, and a fun zone.
HOGTOWN CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL, SATURDAY, MARCH 29TH
Cuscowilla Nature & Retreat Center 210 SE 134 Ave, Micanopy, FL 32667 hogtownbeerfest.com
Beer lovers, look no further; the Hogtown Craft Beer Festival is the perfect way to spend a spring day. Located in Micanopy’s breathtaking Cuscowilla nature and retreat center, guests can sample local brews and get the chance to learn more about the art of beer making. Complement your brew with a meal from local food trucks while listening to live music shows. Don’t forget your designated driver. The Hogtown Craft Beer Festival offers free entry to sober friends to make sure everyone gets home safe.
GRATEFUL GAINESVILLE SPRING BOOGIE, APRIL 26TH
Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601 heartwoodsoundstage.com
Heartwood Soundstage wants you to get down and groovy this April at the Grateful Gainesville Spring Boogie. As the name suggests, most bands performing are primarily jam bands in the vein of the infamous Grateful Dead. If that’s not your ‘jam,’ the festival also showcases R&B and good old-fashion Americana with Grammy-nominated artist Mason Via. Vendors will be selling far-out wares and crafts so you can complete your hippy look.
WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL AT THE BRYER PATCH FARM APRIL 26 - APRIL 27
Embrace the spirit of spring at the Bryer Patch’s most popular event of the year. At the WildFlower festival, guests can create their own personalized bouquets with the thousands of wildflowers growing around the property. The festival also boasts live music, hayrides, food vendors, and farm animal experiences in Newberry. This event is perfect for families looking for an idyllic spring outing.
GATOR FLY-IN AND ARMED SERVICES
APPRECIATION DAY, MARCH 22
University Air Center
4701 NE 40th Ter, Gainesville, FL 32609
flygainesville.com
Fly over to the University Air Center for an unforgettable show. Pilots will show off their planes on the ground and in the sky. Opening ceremonies will feature colorguard flyovers, including a tribute to veterans who lost their lives in combat. As this year’s theme is “Gators in Space,” NASA and the Swamp Rocket Team will display rockets. Make sure to go early to enjoy the pancake breakfast!
You might want to wear stretchy pants for this spring festival. In mid-April, Celebration Pointe transforms into a pop-up food court. More than 40 local and national restaurants will sell delicious eats to the masses. Perhaps wait a little for your food to digest before taking a turn at one of the three bounce houses around the event. Admission is free, and food tickets are $2 each. Tickets can be bought through the GCM app.
Springtime in North Central Florida is truly a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. Whether you’re indulging in gourmet bites, discovering local art, dancing to live music, or simply basking in the beauty of wildflowers, these festivals offer a perfect way to enjoy the season. With something for every age and interest, there’s no better time to step outside, connect with others, and make unforgettable memories. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities that make this region come alive in the spring.
I am my mother’s daughter, so I thought to be a good parent I needed to create exceptional children. And according to my mom, kids who do things faster are “advanced.”
Naked Salsa
BY CRYSTAL SMITH
TURNS OUT “BECAUSE I’M YOUR MOTHER” DOESN’T ALWAYS WORK
I’m a 40-year-old divorced mom raising two teenage daughters on my own. But before you send your condolences, I’m going to say something I’m sure I’ll soon regret putting in ink — things are going pretty well.
Having good teenagers is honestly a privilege I do not deserve. I wasn’t a bad teenager, but I was a mouthy one. I remember my mom telling me that if I didn’t hate her, it meant she wasn’t doing her job. And at times I really felt like I hated her. Actually I’m pretty sure I screamed it in a dressing room at The Buckle one time.
My mom has been my ride or die my whole life, but she doesn’t always get me. She’s my biggest cheerleader, and my biggest pusher. Sometimes I’m embarrassed because I feel like I can never live up to the hype. Old ladies sitting next to an empty seat on an airplane hate to see my mom coming. She’ll plop right down next to them and before the plane hits cruising altitude, they’ll know every minor accomplishment that my brother or I have had in our whole lives.
Having a cheerleader mom was great for my self esteem. But it was a lot to live up to, and she had a wildly different parenting style than I do. I can’t remember how many times I heard “Because I’m the mother. That’s why. Just do it.”
I definitely thought I’d follow in my mom’s footsteps when it came to parenting styles. My first husband definitely subscribed to her style. But I said a lot of things before I actually got in the trenches of motherhood. My kids weren’t going to ever sleep in my bed or breastfeed past a year. Ask me how that turned out. till, it wasn’t the co-sleeping for survival or breastfed toddlers that radicalized me. It was potty training. Potty training was the ground-breaking lesson I learned that changed the trajectory of my parenting style forever.
Since I’d already succumbed to sleep deprivation and let my kid sleep in my bed, I knew I had to ace the next parent challenge — potty training.
At the ripe old age of 18 months, I decided I was going to teach my kid to potty like an adult. And honestly at first things went pretty well. I was a stay-at-home mom, so I could spend all day following my kid around the house asking her every two seconds if she wanted to go pee pee potty.
Sometimes we had “big girl panties” on, and other times she was rockin’ the Winnie the Pooh no pants dance. And believe it or not, we had several successful deposits into the little potty placed squarely in the living room.
In hindsight, I’m not sure what the motivation was to potty train early. There was no gold star that came in the mail, and it was infinitely more work to try and catch what could have just gone into a diaper. But I wanted to be a “good mom” so I was determined.
S he was doing okay — until her baby sister arrived. Then, because I couldn’t pop to the potty at the drop of a hat, my oldest started to regress.
One day, after a particularly hard night with the baby, my toddler was jumping on the couch while I sat in the recliner feeding her sister for the 80th time that day. All of a sudden my toddler got that look on her face, spread her feet apart and made eye contact as she peed right on the couch cushion.
Once I let go of the idea that they were going to pee pee when and where I told them to “because I’m your mother,” the second half of my parenting life began.
I was furious, and probably only held back my rage because I didn’t want to wake the baby that had just fallen asleep. Thankfully I had that buffer, because there’s absolutely no reason to be upset with a toddler for having an accident. But in my sleep-deprived state, I was not the picture of perfect motherhood.
I put my oldest back in pull-ups and accepted my defeat until a few months later when she was ready to try again. She potty trained easily, and we were on easy street — until her sister came along.
CRYSTAL
That child had no interest in potty training, and she wasn’t sad about it. I tried the same techniques I’d done with her sister, and then I tried every remedy the 2013 internet had to offer. But nada.
My own mom chimed in, and that sinking feeling of disappointment crept up. I wasn’t a good mom because my kid wasn’t peeing in a potty. Out of frustration I yelled “What do you expect me to do? Make her?”
I think that’s exactly what she expected, but saying that out loud broke a spell in my brain. I grew these children inside my body, but they are whole human beings outside of me. I can’t actually make them do anything.
I can yell at them, threaten them, bribe them or encourage them. But at the end of the day, they get to decide what they do with their own bodies and their own lives. Once I let go of the idea that they were going to pee pee when and where I told them to “because I’m your mother,” the second half of my parenting life began. Now I have two teen daughters who make their own choices, and honestly they’re pretty good at it. My job is to simply guide them. I can make suggestions. I can encourage them. But at the end of the day, I can’t make another person do anything. And although they don’t hate me, I think I’m still doing my job.
FROM LAYERS TO LIGHT
Your Guide to Spring
Wardrobe Essentials
There once was a woman who loved clothes. Unmistakably similar to many men and women, she adored the feeling of soft cotton on her skin and the flowy draping of linen on her legs. She liked it when she pulled on a sweater and wisps of faux fur brushed across her face or the timeless slip and smooth sheen of a satin dress on her torso on a warm spring night.
WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN
She cherisheD the initial raw stiffness of DeniM an D was D evote D to the co M fort of her polyester pajamas. She knew the ultimate secret of clothes. A secret she hoped everyone would discover. She knew that it was not wearing the latest trends that made her look incredible but the confidence with which she wore them. However, spinning in front of her bedroom mirror, she admitted, if only to herself, “Of course, a good trend never hurt a girl either.”
This year’s spring fashion trends revolve around the subtle individualization of common clothing pieces emanating a thoughtfully rebellious and refreshing essence. The usual spring color palette remains the same (white, pink, baby blue, pistachio, possibly a light orange, and various pastels). Still, the clothes’ styling, patterns, and silhouettes have taken an unexpected twist. Bound to be trending on Instagram and TikTok, a tight waist or bodice is currently popular on runways and in department stores, but a relaxed fit above and below with flowy or baggy lines. It centers around comfort and style coexisting with an air of nonchalance and seemingly effortless beauty. Emma Childs of Marie Claire called it “Boho 2.0”, “boho chic,” and “Good Bad Taste” in her article “The Fashion Trends That Will Shape 2025.”
This year’s spring fashion trends revolve around the subtle individualization of common clothing pieces emanating a thoughtfully rebellious and refreshing essence.
Contrary to previous trends, the focus is on soft and fluid clothes instead of structured ones. Complete with barrel jeans, baggy jean shorts, relaxed organza dresses, long skirts, purse charms, oversized hoodies, straight-leg pants, flared pants, and large purses, this spring—fashion is thriving. Suede has grown more popular in shoes and purses, and people especially love pairing brown suede with white. Fabrics should be breathable, so opt for cotton, linen, or blended fabrics. The flowy and baggier nature of the clothes is perfect for the warmer spring weather, and it’ll create fun dimensions in pictures when there’s the inevitable cool breeze. Who doesn’t love a good Marilyn Monroe moment?
Its uniqueness is an interesting rehashing of previous trends in the 2010s with light layers and statement pieces. Think kitschy purse charms, Mary Jane flats, ruffles on the lower hem of dresses, preppy plaid contrasted with checkered prints, high knee socks, and dresses over jeans. It takes individuality and confidence to spruce up an outfit. It’s a shift away from the years of minimalism and “quiet
luxury” and toward eclecticism and dressing with touches of personal taste. Invest in a key statement piece or collect many small items that represent you, whether jewelry, belts, headbands, pins, purse charms, clips, or a beautiful dress, top, blazer, skirt, or pants. Embracing the penchant for vintage shopping that has become commonplace with Gen Z, clothes don’t have to be expensive or even look costly as long as they look different or rare. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and dress differently.
If you struggle to understand the transition from winter to spring, look no further. Here are a few tips:
1. You don’t have to eliminate winter layering completely. Instead, lighten the load with two to three lightweight pieces and layer on jewelry. Accessorizing is always in style, and personalizing it is even better.
2. Experiment with a pop of color. A common misconception about a spring wardrobe is that it has to be full of florals and pastels. However, if you found comfort in winter’s earthy neutrals and jewel tones, you don’t have to give them up entirely. Wear the same-color basics and add a pop of spring color. Maybe this means green buttons on a black dress, yellow embroidery on a pair of jeans, or clipping a pink bow in your hair to wear with your favorite black dress.
3 Play with lines and silhouettes. Off-the-shoulder tops and odd necklines are easy eye candy for fashion enthusiasts. Asymmetrical pieces are one of the easiest ways to exude style and recreate high-fashion looks at home. They can elevate an outfit and embody a carefree yet fashionable attitude.
4. Have fun! This season, now more than ever, is the best time to add whimsy to your wardrobe. Indulge your inner child who couldn’t wear the outfit of her dreams, and dress to your imagination. Use the color in your makeup palette that never gets touched. Wear the high heels you’ve saved for a special occasion. Go a little crazy and buy the dress you saved on Instagram or bookmarked on Chrome.
Here are my recommendations if you still need help deciding what to buy to usher in the spring season...
1. Lily of the Valley Purse Charm
This Lily of the Valley purse charm from Dreamy Haven on Etsy is a delicate floral charm that is unique and charming (pun not intended). It is handmade and comes in various spring-perfect colors. This charm is sure to receive many compliments.
https://rb.gy/rjhpfs
2. Garcon Classic Shirt in Cotton Poplin
A baggy yet professional white cotton shirt from J.Crew is a basic essential that is on trend and in style. Although stylish on its own, it can be layered with other pieces to make it more casual for everyday wear outside of the office. The cotton material also makes it breathable and perfect for spring.
https://rb.gy/9llxsa
3. Oria Chiffon Maxi Dress
Ethereal and elegant, this dress from Meshki is as gorgeous as it is captivating. It features an asymmetrical and draped neckline, embodying effortlessly chic style. The accentuated waist and flowing skirt are ideal for formal occasions and will, without a doubt, make you the star of the night.
https://rb.gy/nyw231
Spring forward in fashion this season and feel good about how you present yourself to the world. Embody, embrace, and emanate the beauty and sophistication inside of you with the help of this year’s spring trends.
Courtney Bailey, Breast cancer survivor
A designation from the National Cancer Institute places the UF Health Cancer Center among the nation’s top cancer programs. This distinction means patients like Courtney have access to breakthrough research and leading-edge treatments.
“As an event planner, I love to make people smile. When I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, the physicians at UF Health treated me like I was special. They worked as a team to create a treatment plan just for me and held my hand through a difficult journey. Now, I’m back, and I’m the one smiling.”
Visit UFHealth.org/Cancer to learn more about our NCI designation.
DANCE ALIVE OPENS GAINESVILLE’S FIRST INCLUSIVE DANCE PROGRAM
Dancing Beyond Limits
WRITTEN BY DELANEY STARLING
PARENTS AND CHILDREN ENTER THE BUILDING IN OAKVIEW PARK, INSTANTLY FILLING IT WITH AN ENERGETIC BUZZ.
It’s 3:30 p.m., time for the Let’s Dance program to start its first class of the day. Some students use wheelchairs, while others can’t seem to stop moving. Teachers accommodate kids wherever they are on the movement spectrum. Let’s Dance is a pilot program run by the Gainesville dance company Dance Alive National Ballet. Funded by the Children’s Trust of Alachua County, Let’s Dance offers weekly free dance classes to children with mental and physical limitations.
“I really fell in love with the idea of bringing dance to others and maybe to communities that don’t typically fall in line with what we characterize as traditional dancers,” says Dance Alive outreach director Emily Pozek. Pozek is the lead teacher for Let’s Dance and one of the champions
of the program. Dance Alive National Ballet’s history has been filled with community outreach since it opened in 1966. Let’s Dance is their latest creation. The class serves kids aged 5-18 who experience autism, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and more. Pozek says, “There’s a really big need in our community for that. That’s the feedback I’m getting from the parents of the classes.”
Most traditional dance classes cannot accommodate students with disabilities, making Let’s Dance an invaluable resource to differently abled kids and their families. Knowledge and expertise in working with this group sets the program’s staff apart, making them uniquely qualified to facilitate positive growth in every student. Where a traditional dance class would have a student sit to the side if they were unable to move a certain way, the Let’s Dance curriculum offers tailored movements and assistance. For example, staff support and move the legs of students unable
to walk when it’s their turn to leap across the room.
For many parents, this is the first time seeing their child dance. The impact is evident in each symphony of giggles.
Parent Emily McCauley speaks about the influence Let’s Dance has had on her son Grey, “He’s really been brought back to life and has a big smile on his face the whole time.” Grey has cerebral palsy and is unable to speak. At the end of class he puts his hands together, using sign language to say “more.”
Le t’s Dance also benefits parents. Pozek says, “I’ve heard many times that parents can sometimes feel isolated. They’re always the caregiver and don’t always have the opportunity to watch them.” Looking around the room, the feelings of pride and joy are undeniable on the faces of parents.
The foundation of Let’s Dance is its dedicated staff. Pozek leads the class while Dance Alive professional dancers Tales Ribeiro and Tenki Nomura assist those needing extra help. “There’s always the idea of the standard body for a dancer,” Ribeiro says, “I think it’s really important that you have this program to prove that everybody and every body can dance.”
Physical therapist Claudia Senesac brings the expert knowledge needed to help children with movement limitations effectively. Senesac says, “You gain trust from families
coming in and seeing that we care about the children and that this experience is different than they get in any other environment.”
Let’s Dance is currently only an eight-week program. “It’s a really big mission of mine that these classes hopefully continue to be free and available to the community,” says Pozek. Because the funding comes from the Children’s Trust of Alachua County, Dance Alive is not responsible for the program’s future. The last class is scheduled for March 4.
Despite only operating for two months, the influence that Let’s Dance has had on the lives of students and families is beyond question. Pozek says, “Dance is impactful because it encourages so much creativity and freedom. A lot of students that we work with are nonverbal, and dance is a way that you can speak.”
Parents often share testimonies with staff on how the program has redefined what’s possible for their children. Pozek recalls a little girl who showed up for class in full ballerina regalia; her dream was to be a ballet dancer. Before finding Let’s Dance, her mother had given up hope her daughter would ever realize that dream.
Dance Alive has cultivated an environment where each student’s difference is celebrated, and dreams really do come true.
For many parents, Let’s Dance is the first time they see their child dance, filling the room with giggles and joy. The program creates a space for selfexpression, with some children signing “more” at the end of class. It also provides a sense of connection for parents, offering a rare chance to simply watch and celebrate their child’s movement.
FARM
TALES From Mother Hen
SPRING FORWARD
Well, here it is again—another spring. I’ve seen my share of them in my 70 plus years. When the cozy gloom of winter turns to sunny spring, the world takes on a new vibrance where anything seems possible. It’s this mindset that triggers new ideas and inventions to become reality. I thought I’d do a little something different with this issue’s Farm Tales and write about some of the changes I’ve experienced so far in my lifetime.
As mentioned before, I’m one of the Baby Boomers born in the 1950s. I was born in a hospital, unlike my parents who were born in their parent’s homes. It was a very “modern” birth in a hospital delivery room attended by a doctor, nurses and Catholic Sisters. My mother and I were kept at the hospital for a week before being released to my grandparent’s home for perhaps another week.
My grandmother was there to help my mother learn the fundamentals of being a firsttime mom. There was a lot to learn, too. No self-help books or online videos were available back then. Information was passed on by word of mouth from generation to generation. Diapers were cloth at that time, secured with safety pins and a leak proof diaper cover to help lessen leaks. If breastfeeding didn’t work out for the new
mom, baby formula was prepared in the kitchen. I’ve heard that it was made with Pet Milk, a brand of canned milk, and some other ingredients that were supposed to be good for baby’s growth. It was considered “very modern” to bottle feed, which freed up the mother to do other things.
Children who lived in town were free to play outside all day. Neighbors watched out for each other’s kids. They knew each child by name, where they lived and who their parents were. It was not unusual for children to be outdoors all summer, returning home at dinnertime—kind of like the Leave it to Beaver television show’s lifestyle.
I lived in the country, so it was a little different for me. My nearest companion lived a mile away down a gravel road, so I had to amuse myself most days. Maybe once every few weeks my mother would go to town for groceries or other necessities. It was always exciting to go with her on those occasions. There was no such thing as a car seat for children, or even seatbelts in the car for adults. When our mothers drove with us next to them in the front seat, each time she applied the brakes her right arm would swing out sideways across our chest to hold us back. It was just automatic; she didn’t even think about it.
When we were old enough to go to school, we started with first grade. No such thing as daycare or kindergarten. Most mothers didn’t work outside of the home. When we did start elementary school, it was understood that we were to obey the teacher in all things and not cause trouble. If we didn’t, we knew we would get a paddling and a note to our parents.
Fast forward to my teen years—it was a set-in-stone rule that I would not be allowed to go on a date until I was 16 years old. Since my birthday was in June, that meant I would be a Junior in high school before it was permitted. I did have three wonderful best friends who were a lot of fun, so we girls would go to school
dances together, dropped off by a parent. When I got my drivers license and a car to use, we would head to town at the teen center almost every weekend.
Today when I see a cell phone in every teenager’s hand, I wonder how my parents could have ever let us go out at night with no way of knowing if we were alright. Of course, there was an arranged time we needed to be back home, but still—my parents must have been so worried until we walked through the front door.
My first trip on an airplane was when I was 23 and on my honeymoon with my new husband. I was so excited as we drove to the airport. I felt officially grown up, just married and now traveling by plane! Most flights had a meal selection for passengers, and everyone dressed up for travel. At that time there was a smoking section in the back of the cabin. Heaven forbid if you were seated in a row too close to the smoking section, because once you arrived at your destination you would need to shower and wash your hair to get the smokey smell off of you.
Who would have imagined social media groups becoming the common way people would interact in the future?
W hen I had my first baby, the “modern” thing mothers did back then was sign up for a cloth diaper service. Each week we would put out a plastic bag of soiled diapers by the door and a bag of freshly cleaned diapers was left in its place. LaLeche League was available to help new mothers get started with tips on breastfeeding, which was coming back in style. I feel that if my mother had access to this help, she could have been successful. Other advances in infant care were developing to help mothers too. New types of baby food, car seats and strollers all were designed to make life with baby safer and easier.
In mid 80s we got our first personal computer. It was so basic, by today’s standards it would be considered an antique. Later we got an AOL account—and that dial-up pinging sound followed by “You’ve Got Mail” became music to our ears. It was all so new and intriguing, but we had no idea that life as we knew it was about to change.
For instance, when I was in school and assigned a report, I had to go to our public library to find information. My research came from encyclopedias or books that were often outdated for years by the time I was accessing it. Now students can get the latest current information on their laptops or tablets right from their own homes. The internet made instant information and connecting to other parts of the world a normal thing. Who would have imagined social media groups becoming the common way people would interact in the future?
Not only students’ lives have changed because of the internet, but adults’ as well. Careers and the way we do business have been improved. The number of people who work from home now is certainly a huge change. Not only that, but our very homelife has changed, too. Now you can shop from home, pay with credit cards and have your purchases delivered right to your home. Even your meals can be left at your door within minutes.
These are just a few examples of the advances I’ve experienced along my life’s journey. As the world springs forward each year, I find that I’m not easily surprised anymore. I’ve already seen more changes than I could have ever imagined.
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SEASONAL SWITCH
Easy Décor Ideas to Freshen Up Your Space
Take a moment to look around your home. Do you still have those seasonal decorations up? There is no need to admit if it’s pink and red hearts or a Christmas tree. Maybe you’ve taken them all down and are left with a blank canvas waiting to be reinvigorated. Perhaps you have a few pieces of décor here and there, but you still need a few more ideas to liven up your space. Whichever one applies, you can freshen up your space with these simple additions to transform your home into a springtime masterpiece.
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
PLANTS THAT WILL LAST YOU
Nothing says spring like a few floral additions to your home. However, the last thing you want is a plant that will wilt within the first week of having it due to complex maintenance and a lack of proper conditions. So, choose some beginner-friendly plants and flowers that suit indoor temperatures. Here are some suggestions:
1. Crassula—A succulent plant, this is an excellent choice for a plant you can set by your bedroom window. It prefers more light and requires little water.
2. Monstera could be a great addition if you want a larger plant to add a lovely accent to your living room. These plants are also known as the Swiss cheese plant, as they naturally develop slits within the leaves as they grow. These plants prefer indirect sunlight and regular watering.
3. Peace lily—This low-maintenance flower will stand out on any surface. Unlike other flowers, it requires little watering, only a weekly routine. It also prefers partial to complete shade, so keep it out of direct sunlight.
4. Kalanchoe—If you want a pop of color, the Kalanchoe is another low-maintenance plant. It is another species of the succulent genus, so it requires little water and will also last in low-light conditions. Its beautiful pink flowers make it an excellent choice for spring decorating.
There’s nothing wrong with using fake plants to freshen up your place either. They’re reliable and give you way more options for plant varieties that would otherwise be difficult to maintain. You can also use fake plant vines, which can
be hung up high on the walls or the ceiling to give your place a natural vibe.
FLORAL AND FRUITY CANDLES
Continue to set the mood for spring with great scents in your home. Try classic floral scents such as lilac, roses, or lavender. You can also get tropical fruity aromas like coconut, pineapple, mango, or a mix of these scents. Place these on any surface that needs a little extra pop and where the scents can best circulate around the room. Wax melts are another great option if you have a decorative burner you can use. These are also an easy option if you have one to plug into the wall.
Let your creativity brighten up spaces that you hadn’t thought to decorate in the first place.
OUTSIDE DÉCOR IDEAS
Don’t neglect the outside of your place, even if it is just your apartment door. Try adding or switching out your doormat with a floral or bright-themed mat. Add a fun and eye-catching floral wreath to your front door. You can buy or create one with a variety of flowers or a few that match the color scheme you are going for.
If you have a porch you can decorate, try adding some ceramic accents like bunnies or colorful gnomes. Now would also be a great time to add bright flowers you can reasonably maintain. If you have birds that like to stop by, this is also a great excuse to buy or DIY a cute bird feeder. There is nothing better than functional décor.
DECORATE WITH PANTONE’S COLOR OF THE YEAR
This year’s color is Mocha Mousse, a warm, rich brown. Now is a great time to look for accent pieces contrasting your walls or furniture. You could also switch some furniture for the theme, such as a Mocha Mousse couch or coffee table. However, other additions can still add to the warm and cozy look if these are outside your budget.
You could get a table runner, a rug, blankets, and pillows for your living room, all corresponding to this theme if you can find ones with abstract designs that suit your space even better.
You can also switch up your dining area with this color, adding seat covers or cushions that correspond with the color and, again, a table runner for your dining table. If you feel fancy, you can set up your table with cloth napkins that you can fold into simple rectangles, triangles, or even something more complex like a rose or a leaf.
You can continue to get imaginative with other ways to implement this theme around the house, such as switching up your stationery items for the season. Decorate your calendar or anything you use daily that could use a fun touch-up. You can also complement the brown hue with warm colors like red or yellow.
However else you decide to decorate your house, don’t hold back. Let your creativity brighten up spaces that you hadn’t thought to decorate in the first place. You can always rearrange things or take out anything that isn’t working.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
A TASTE OF SPRING TEA PARTY
Thursday, March 6, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.
3/6
GAINESVILLE – Join the Gainesville Garden Club for their annual Spring Fling - “A Taste of Spring Tea Party”! This festive event celebrates the season with a fabulous fashion show presented by Dillard’s and a Hat Competition where guests can show off their creativity. Enjoy a High Tea-inspired luncheon with tea blends, finger sandwiches, scones, and desserts, providing the perfect chance to relax, socialize, and embrace the beauty of spring. ggcfl.org
SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL AT THE SHOPPES AT THORNEBROOK
Saturday, March 1 & Sunday, March 2, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Shoppes at Thornebrook, 2441 NW 43rd St.
GAINESVILLE – This two-day event showcases a diverse range of talented artists, including favorites from the Fall Arts Festival and exciting new participants. Visitors can enjoy artwork across various mediums, such as painting, sculpture, photography, glass, fiber arts, wood carvings, pottery, jewelry and more. shoppesatthornebrook.com
POP-UP MUSEUM: SPRINGS
Thursday, March 6, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Marston Science Library, 444 Newell Dr.
GAINESVILLE – The Florida Museum is bringing the springs to you at the Marston Library! Celebrate Florida’s natural springs just in time for spring. Meet scientists from the Museum and Thompson Earth Systems Institute as they explore one of the state’s most valuable resources—water. Visit the table on the second floor for free activities, meet the campus natural history museum, and learn more about Florida’s springs. ggcfl.org
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
Friday March 7 – Friday, March 14
UF Constans Theatre, 1800 McCarty Drive
GAINESVILLE – “The Importance of Being Earnest” dazzles with sharp satire, exposing the gap between people’s behavior and true intentions. Follow Algernon and Jack as their comedic deceptions to avoid social obligations spiral into chaos, while Wilde critiques a society obsessed with appearances and riddled with hypocrisy. arts.ufl.edu
MUSEUM FEST: EXPLORE WHAT’S NEXT
Saturday, March 8, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – Join the Florida Museum for Museum Fest, a free celebration of natural history and our exciting expansion! Explore native plants, meet scientists, view current research, tour collections and more. Don’t miss the chance to revisit your favorite exhibits, including the Butterfly Rainforest, a simulated glass-bottom boat ride and iconic fossils like Megalodon jaws. floridamuseum.ufl.edu
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THE PEKING ACROBATS
Tuesday, March 11, 7:30 p.m. Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – The Peking Acrobats deliver a thrilling, all-ages spectacle with daring feats like chair stacking, trick cycling, tumbling, juggling and gymnastics. Rooted in centuries of Chinese tradition, they push the boundaries of human potential while honoring the rich folk art legacy of China. performingarts.ufl.edu/events
LYRICS FOR LIFE: AN EVENING OF MAKING MUSIC MATTER
Saturday, March 8, 8 p.m.
Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – “Lyrics For Life,” founded by Sister Hazel’s Ken Block in memory of his brother Jeffrey, who lost his battle with cancer at 18, unites musicians and celebrities to raise funds for cancer research and support programs for patients and families. Sip cocktails, browse a star-studded silent auction and enjoy delicious cuisine before enjoying an exclusive intimate concert by Sister Hazel and guest artist Rick Springfield. performingarts.ufl.edu/events
TAMING OF THE SHREW
Thursday March 13 – Sunday, April 6
Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW 2nd Ave., Suite O
GAINESVILLE – Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew explores themes of love and marriage. Lucentio’s pursuit of Bianca is driven by an idealized love for an apparently perfect woman. In contrast, Petruchio’s courtship of Katherine is devoid of idealism. He takes money from Bianca’s suitors to win her hand, as her father’s decree requires Katherine to marry before Bianca. Petruchio also negotiates the dowry with her father and proceeds to marry Katherine, despite her resistance. acrosstown.org
SING INTO SPRING
Friday, March 14, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Santa Fe College Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St.
GAINESVILLE – The Santa Fe Singers will be joined by the Eastside High School Chamber Singers for the annual “Sing Into Spring” concert. Tickets are $16 for adults;
$10 for seniors, students and military service members and children 12 and under; and free for SF students, faculty, and staff with college ID cards. sfcollege.edu
ERIN GO BRAGH! ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT BLACKADDER BREWING
Monday, March 17, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60 St. Suite A
GAINESVILLE – Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Blackadder Brewing on Monday, March 17th! Doors open at 5PM with their Irish Red, On Your McKeester, on tap. Enjoy live traditional Irish music by An Triúr starting at 6:30PM and delicious St. Patrick’s Day fare from Mayflower Food Truck. blackadderbrewing.com
FUN WITH FLOWERS
Tuesday, March 18, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.
GAINESVILLE – Make and take home a beautiful floral arrangement. Tickets are $25. ggcfl.org
RAGTIME THE MUSICAL
Friday, March 21 – Sunday, April 13
Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd.
GAINESVILLE – Based on E.L. Doctorow’s novel, RAGTIME tells the story of three diverse families navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing world. From the immigrant struggles of Tateh and his daughter to the privileged lives of Mother, Father and their son, and the fiery energy of Coalhouse Walker Jr. and Sarah, their lives intersect in unexpected ways, revealing humanity’s interconnectedness in the face of adversity. gcplayhouse.org
ART AFTER DARK | WINE DOWN
Thursday, March 27, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Harn Museum of Art, 3259 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – Wine Down and relax to musical performances by the Nick DeCarlis Jazz Trio while enjoying complimentary wine, beer and dessert. harn.ufl.edu
MORNING AFTER GRACE
Friday, March 28 – Sunday, April 20
The Hippodrome, 25 SE 2nd Place
GAINESVILLE – After an unexpected connection at a funeral, Abigail and Angus wake up with questions. Enter Ollie, their neighbor with his own troubles, and watch as this unlikely trio navigates love, loss, and aging in a Florida retirement community. This heartwarming and hilarious new comedy stars Nell Page and Kevin Rainsberger, taking us on an unexpected journey toward a new lease on life. thehipp.org
BELONGINGS
Friday, April 4 – Sunday, April 27
High Springs Community Playhouse
HIGH SPRINGS - By Daniel Fenton. Produced by special arrangement with the Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois. highspringsplayhouse.com
4/1
FUN WITH FLOWERS
Tuesday, April 15, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.
GAINESVILLE – Make and take home a beautiful floral arrangement. Tickets are $25. ggcfl.org
GREAT GATSBY BALLET BY THE WORLD BALLET COMPANY
Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m. Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – Step into the glamorous world of the Roaring Twenties with the World Ballet Company’s new production of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel. Experience the glitz, glamor and tragic romance live on stage, featuring a multinational cast of 40 professional dancers, stunning hand-crafted costumes and lavish, innovative sets. performingarts.ufl.edu/events
DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS: ROMEO AND JULIET
Saturday, April 5, 7:30 p.m.
Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – The greatest love story ever told. The heartbreaking feud between the Capulets and Montagues results in the doomed lovers’ deaths and a sad reconciliation for the families. performingarts.ufl.edu/events
ART AFTER DARK | MUSEUM NIGHTS: FINDING SILVER LININGS
Thursday, April 10, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Harn Museum of Art, 3259 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – The Harn galleries will stay open after 5 p.m., with Museum Nights: Finding Silver Linings starting at 6 p.m. Celebrate creativity and hope with activities centered around Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection, showcasing work by 28 Black artists. harn.ufl.edu
SPRING INTO DANCE
Thursday, April 10 – Sunday, April 13
UF Constans Theatre, 1800 McCarty Drive
GAINESVILLE – This annual dance concert will present contemporary dance compositions by dance faculty and exciting guest artists. Drawing on inspiration from their research, the choreographers will create unique and memorable works performed by accomplished student ensembles. arts.ufl.edu
THE CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS
Thursday, April 17 – Friday, April 18
UF Constans Theatre, 1800 McCarty Drive
GAINESVILLE – Conference of the Birds, based on the 12th-century poem by Farid ud-Din Attar, explores the human ego and the quest for truth. As the birds embark on a pilgrimage to find their king, they confront existential questions and their own identities, celebrating both shared humanity and individual uniqueness. arts.ufl.edu
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL
Monday, April 21, 7:30 p.m.
Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, Pretty Woman: The Musical features an original score by GRAMMY® winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J.F. Lawton. performingarts.ufl.edu/events
GRATEFUL GAINESVILLE SPRING BOOGIE
Saturday, April 26
Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. GAINESVILLE – The 4th annual Grateful Gainesville Spring Boogie features Mason Via’s debut album release, Tamayo Trio, Headstash, Mason Via, Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream and Grass is Dead with bluegrass renditions of The Grateful Dead. The Unwound Trio will also play indoors. Enjoy dancing, shopping, food and more! heartwoodsoundstage.com
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
WED
JAZZ ON THE GREEN
Second Saturdays from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. Suite 140
GAINESVILLE – Join Celebration Point every second Saturday of the month for live music, food, drinks and more! Spread a blanket under the setting sun, and catch some beautiful music on the green. celebrationpointe.com
GAINESVILLE CARS & COFFEE
Second Sundays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Whole Foods Market, 3490 SW Archer Road
GAINESVILLE – A gathering for automotive enthusiasts of all types from exotics and classics to imports and jalopies. The meet is free to attend; coffee will be provided to attendees, as well as breakfast items for sale. gainesvillecarsandcoffee.com
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
ARTIST MEETUP
Second Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. – 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
HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE
Second Fridays at 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.
GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie and great conversations with us. All riding levels welcome. Tickets are $75 per-person. haileequestrian.com/events
GAINESVILLE – A music event that offers an eclectic mix of music from a variety of genres – country, rock, soul and more. celebrationpointe.com
TOT TROT
Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road
GAINESVILLE – Get your toddler excited about science and natural history! Join Discovery Zone nature ambassadors for an exciting and interactive nature walk. Each program highlights an outdoor area and encourages exploration with a closer look at nature and museum objects. This program promotes sensory experiences, investigation and exploration with a focus
on science. Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old (child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone). Tickets are $6 for members and $7 for non-members. floridamuseum.ufl.edu
BIRD WALKS AT THE WETLANDS
Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. (September – May)
Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Road
GAINESVILLE – Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida’s premier birding hotspots during a 2-3-hour guided walking tour. Join us to see why Sweetwater Wetlands Park is the most popular birding destination in the Gainesville area. Walks are free with park admission fee ($5/vehicle) and are offered every Wednesday morning from September 1st though the end of May. alachuaaudubon.org
BARNYARD BUDDIES
Wednesdays at 3 p.m. (September – May)
Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E University Ave.
GAINESVILLE – Morningside Living History Farm is hosting an in-person, socially distant Barnyard Buddies program! This one-hour program is free, but online pre-registration through Eventbrite is required on a first-come-first-served basis. Youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding on the Living History Farm. September – May.
HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET
Fridays from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. 23517 NW 185th Road
HIGH SPRINGS – Florida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy and meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. highsprings.us/farmersmarket
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
NOW
PRIMARY
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 SAT
Dr. Amir Akhavan has built a reputation for using state-of-the-art orthodontic technology including Invisalign® clear aligners, InBrace Smartwire™ hidden behind the teeth, modern metal and ceramic braces, digital impressions, and more!
Dr. Akhavan embraces creativity and innovation by putting new ideas and sound technology into practice to help his patient receive the best outcome possible.
Visit online or call to set up a complimentary consultation.
Providing orthodontic services to Gainesville, Tioga, Newberry, Alachua and surrounding areas.
in Our Town
GOOD THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU CELEBRATE KIND WORDS…
The purpose of this special section is to build community, appreciation and hope. In the following pages you’ll find words of encouragement. These are testimonials from local people sharing what they love about the people and places that support our community and need your support.
We hope you’ll find some places you love, and encourage them too ;)
Custom Created Fine Jewelry and Watch Repair
“The craftsmanship of the work at this location is second to none! The staff here is helpful and friendly, and the options to choose from are so tasteful and accommodating to any needs you may have. This is the only place I will go for a gift that will be unforgettable and treasured for a lifetime.” — Kevin K.
“I cannot say enough great things about Jewelry Works! David and Valissa showed my fiance and me great diamond options, as well as, helped us build her the perfect engagement ring! She gets compliments on it routinely. Very professional, kind, and will work with you to deliver your vision.” — Micah S.
We are dedicated to making sure your experience with us is comfortable and pleasant. Collectively we have over 50 years of experience and we LOVE what we do. Our Hair Stylists, Aesthetician, Massage Therapist, Lash Extension Specialist and Nail Artists are waiting to pamper you! Come visit us and enjoy your time in our inviting atmosphere. Give us a call today to set up your next visit. We look forward to meeting you! While you are with us, take a look at our new Boutique, Bee and Thistle, and shop our American made merchandise. A full service Salon and Spa
Profero Hair Studio
359-3800
“I love my hair cut I received today! It was my first time visiting this place recommended by a friend. I was greeted by the stylist and she was friendly and made me feel comfortable and cut my hair exactly how I wanted! Can’t wait to return again for color!” — Britt L.
“This
is a small, intimate hair salon. Stacy is wonderful and listens carefully to want you want in a haircut.”— Sande M
“Finally! A pleasant environment and someone who listened and cut my hair exactly how I wanted.”— Angela G
Where low overhead guarantees the lowest price
“We have trusted Sante Fe Ford’s service department to keep our aging fleet on the road, and their reliability and expertise earned our business when it was time to add a new vehicle. Morgan and Jason made the entire sales process seamless, and we’re confident in our continued partnership with Sante Fe Ford for all our fleet needs.” — Derek
“Santa Fe Ford is the best of the best. They have a huge lot full of inventory with multiple options for each vehicle model. We have purchased multiple trucks to use as delivery vehicles for our Powersports dealership, Polaris of Gainesville. We have also purchased our personal vehicles from there as well. No one beats their customer service or pricing.”— Jennie & Jared Schneider
The ford franchise in Alachua was purchased from Symder Ford in 1988 by John Waitcus and was renamed Santa Fe Ford. Greg Waitcus was appointed vice president and general manager and has successfully managed Santa Fe Ford for 36 years. Santa Fe Ford now offers Mobile service at your home or work locations. We have four mobile units operated by trained technicians, managed by Morgan Waitcus. Our quicklane will be opening soon.
“Vicki is absolutely incredible! I got a brow lamination/ tint from her and she did amazing. She was so kind and friendly throughout the whole process and made sure I felt comfortable. I could not recommend someone more!” — Gabbie P.
“I went to Vicki for a microdermabrasion facial and loved it! The space was clean and relaxing. Vicki had my skin glowing! I will definitely be back for more treatments and highly recommend her!” — Sarah J.
“I highly recommend Vicki at Elite Esthetics! She tailors your treatment to your specific individual skin needs and really takes the time to provide you an excellent service! My favorite treatments are the Jet Peel and the SQT Biomicroneedling” —Madison J.
Creating New Futures for Children and Families
St. Francis House, Inc. 413 South Main Street (352)-378-9079
“St. Francis House truly changed our lives. When we had nowhere else to turn, they welcomed us with open arms and offered us the shelter and support we desperately needed. With their help and compassion, we were able to find stable housing and regain hope for our future. We will always be thankful for the second chance they gave us!” — Former St. Francis House guest
“Before coming to St. Francis House, I felt like my family was stuck in a never-ending cycle of struggle. Their guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support transformed our lives. Today, our family is excited and grateful that we have a new place to call home, all thanks to the incredible team at St. Francis House. Thank you all!” — Former St. Francis House guest
The mission of St. Francis House is to create new futures for women and families with children experiencing homelessness in our community by providing safe shelter, support, and connections to the resources they need to obtain stable housing. Since 2020, St. Francis House has assisted over 250 families and 575 children through our programs, ultimately helping them achieve self-sufficiency and secure permanent housing. For more information on St. Francis House, follow us online at @sfhgnv and visit our website at stfrancishousegnv.com.
Alachua Animal Hospital is your local family owned and operated source for top quality, personalized pet care. From general wellness checks to surgical procedures, we offer a wide range of services. Our team is patient and caring, so you can be sure your pet will be in great hands. We offer complimentary exams for all new patients, so give us a call today! We’re located right on the corner of Main Street and 441 in downtown
“This place is run by honest and kind people.” — Carlos M
“I just took my pup here to get him established somewhere since moving. It was BY FAR the BEST vet visit I’ve ever had taking any dog I’ve ever had to the vet. I left wondering if people ever tip vets-because I would tip them. It was THAT good. Your cherished furry family members will be more than well cared for here. Their staff is amazing!” — Stephanie C
“Great place to take your fur babes! Staff is attentive, caring, accommodating and the office is affordable. It’s a bit of a drive for me, but the care and kindness that all of the staff offer is top notch!” — Tanya T
Alachua!
Our team started working together in 2005 for a local pool company and have since ventured out as Gator Pool Builders. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team of three guys are Alachua County Residents and Santa Fe High School graduates who have spent our entire career in Alachua County. Gator Pool Builders specializes in residential pools offering a variety of services from new construction to remodels, pavers, hardscapes, outdoor kitchens, maintenance, service, and more.
Cool This Pool
“If you are looking for quality and detailed work, Gator Pool Builders is who you want! The owners and subs are professional and great communicators! Our pool is absolutely stunning and we recommend Gator Pools to everyone who’s looking to build. If you want inspiration, ask Jensen to bring you by to see ours! You’ll want a pool tomorrow!” — Deanna Feagin
“Overall Amazing experience getting my pool done by Gator Pool Builders. Was very pleased with the finished product. Highly recommend using this company. Shoutout to Jensen, Lester, and Matt for being there every step of the way and being very professional with everything.” — JayBird Osborne
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.
“New owners & its great! We loved it before and still do! Great entertainment outside! Dining inside is pleasant too. Great place to bring friends from out of town and to celebrate those special events!” — Shelley
“I just moved here in Jan 2020. Then Covid hit. Finally this place is back to rockin! Great service. Great food and drink. Great atmosphere. I can’t wait to be a regular since the music is now back! Love this place! So glad I move to High Springs. Come check this place out. You’ll love it!” — Randy
No matter what your taste buds are craving, you’ll find classic meal favorites and organic vegan options- Fresh and made to order, including the full menu of unique craft cocktails, beer and wines. Then “swing a club” at the Pink Flamingo “water-featured” Mini Golf course located just out back. Whether you relax outside at the Flamingo bar or watch others play the 18 hole course, the entire family is invited to come spend the day. There’s something for everyone! Follow the flock to the Pink Flamingo Diner and Mini Golf in historic High Springs.
A unique “destination” Diner experience for the whole family
Pink Flamingo Diner 19726 US 441, High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-5775
“Excellent food! The revitalized inside is fantastic! The staff were incredibly gracious and engaging. Such a great energy here, and I’m glad this is in High Springs.” — Eric
“My husband and I came in for lunch today and really enjoyed it! He got the High Springs Heaping and I got the California Chicken. I liked getting the mixture of French fries and fried pickles with my sandwich. (Mine would’ve been killer with bacon added *hint hint*.) Service was great and the restaurant looks so nice after the remodel. Good job, we’ll be back!” — Tiffany
Quality Flooring for Every Room
“Everyone at this flooring store from the sales person to the installer were A+. Customer service was so great and so friendly and you just don’t see that anymore. Even the installers that came to the house were so friendly and did such an amazing job. Work was great and they cleaned up after themselves. If I have flooring to be done anywhere near Newberry or Gainesville, there’s only one number I will call. I rarely do reviews but I’m just blown away by the service I received here. Thank You!” — Bryant S.
“Great people. Very helpful with any projects that you may be working on.” — Kerry B.
Lifelong Partners in Your Child’s Health
“Wonderful staff! they treated my son like he was their own. They’ll work with you for even same day appointment… I have not one negative thing to say.” — Kellye G.
“Everything was perfect. The staff were amazing, so nice. The doctor was so sweet to my girls, and I felt that he was extremely knowledgeable “and did not leave out a single detail. The nurse was very kind and welcoming. You could tell that this is a great place! Loved our visit!” — Tonya D.
Little Pine Pediatrics consists of experienced, compassionate pediatricians and friendly, nurturing staff members who take pride in giving their young patients the personalized pediatric care they deserve. They look forward to showing you how they differ from other practices. All of their providers are highly educated professionals who have undergone rigorous academic and clinical training in pediatrics. Little Pine believes in a team approach to your child’s health and well being which allows the doctors to collaborate with parents to provide the highest level of care.
Hometown Local Business
“First rate service - Something for everyone - great prices, great service, friendly and family drivendefinitely the raiser of standards and the breaker of the stereotypical mold - not your typical pawnshop - friendly and family oriented. Be expected to be impressed!” — Jay M.
“I’ve been a customer for 15 years, YES 15 yearsand never a regret, always treated well, you can’t find better deals and the owner goes above and beyond on every transaction.” — John C.
“Great place. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff. Chris is sincere and a real professional.” — Bill M.
“Cilantro Tacos in Alachua raises the bar every time we go there. Their food is absolutely amazing and the service is incredible! We just had them cater an event and their food was all people could talk about. Highly recommend this place if you’re passing through and need to eat.” — R. McClellan
“This place is amazing. The food is delicious and the people that own it and work there are absolutely awesome. Our meals (giant burritos) were huge and fabulous. Holy smoke we waddled out of there promising to return. Don’t short yourselves people, go eat there. You won’t be disappointed.” — B. Jordan
“Awesome fresh food, fast service great family owned business with wonderful staff. Great experience every time, a family favorite.” — K.
Jester
Freshness You Can Taste
We are a family-owned business, originally from the coasts of Southern California, & brought our love for Mexican cuisine to the wonderful community of Newberry, Florida in 2013. We think you of, our patrons, as FAMILIA, & our goal is to always make you feel welcome and satisfied each time. We pride ourselves in the quality, freshness, & vibrant flavors of our food. Our meats are never frozen, and every meal is prepared fresh and made to order. From our fresh Pico de Gallo to our hand-smashed guacamole, you will savor the mouthwatering flavors.
Alachua Blinds and More is excellence in action for all of your window blind and shade needs. With an array of option in a variety of colors and styles, they have been serving our area for over 17 years and operate their business with an attention to detail and work to make your buying experience second to none. Locally owned and operated allows them to offer discounted rates to members of our military, veterans and first responders. Call today or visit their website to request your free, no obligation estimate.
Covering all your windows needs
“We called Alachua Blinds and More a couple of months ago and were given a fair quote by Matt. Soon after Matt and his assistant took the measurements, they assured us of installation promptly. They were extremely courteous and professional. At arrival of blinds they promptly made the installation. We have been extremely pleased with the professional of Matt and his crew.”
— J. Freeman
“I love these blinds! Matt came to my house and took the time to go over all the samples, gave some suggestions and didn’t rush me when I was trying to decide on colors and fabrics. I’ve had the remote blinds for over a year now and they work great!!! I thoroughly enjoyed speaking and doing business with Matt and I would HIGHLY recommend Matt, his company and product!!!!!” — M. Crosby
“I would highly recommend using Carpet One Floor and Home without hesitation and I plan to use them again in the future. It was a positive experience from start to finish, and I am grateful to have chosen such a reputable company for my home improvement project.” — Jennifer S.D.
“We had a technically challenging project replacing a hardwood floor that had sustained water damage. Seth, our sales consultant, spent a great deal of time researching reasonable flooring options and was able to find one that matched our flooring nicely. I would heartily recommend Carpet One, Seth and Joshua as the trifecta of folks one would turn to for flooring needs.”
— Dean K.
“I love that I will have direct access to my provider (phone, text, messenger and email) and won’t have to wait days or weeks to be seen. I’ll keep my health insurance for emergency care and specialists, but financially this just makes sense. If you’re looking for something better, you should definitely check this place out!” — Monica S.
“I just had a patient who is a patient at Celebrate Primary Care, she just went on and on about what an amazing amazing practice y’all have! She’s never experienced such personalized medical care. You are doing great things for people!” — Courtney G.
Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center LLC is a medical aesthetics practice that offers a variety of services for both men and women who are looking to feel refreshed and renewed. Owned and operated by Dr. Tracey Botha, MD., Winners of 5 Our Town Favorite Awards in 2024, services at Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center include botox, fillers, IPL laser, Instalift® threads, tattoo removal, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), weightloss tools, awake liposuction, Renuvion®, genital enhancement procedures, incontinence treatment, and more!
“Dr. Botha is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! She takes the time to really explain everything she’s doing and recommending. I truly feel like I can trust her and I know that she is recommending only the things that are necessary”. — S. Boukari
“I came here for laser services, and I was very nervous at first. Dr. Botha and all of her staff were extremely helpful and made every effort to put me at ease. This is a personal, comfortable experience.” — C. Crooms
“First I just want to say I absolutely love Dr. Botha, her bedside manner is impeccable. So much so I followed her from her previous medical office. Her attention to detail is unmatched.” — M. Kreuger
At Curative Medicine, we take pride in offering a unique blend of expert knowledge with quality prescriptions. Our compounding prescription services include: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), veterinary, dermatology, weight loss, longevity, pediatrics, hospice, wound care and more. As a patient, you will find our staff is unwavering in their commitment to providing you with an exceptional experience. As a provider, our pharmacists can help you formulate the best prescription for your patient to ensure optimal well-being and compliance.
“Everyone there is so nice and helpful. I just called with a bunch of questions about a medication and they were very patient and kind in answering them. Top notch service!” — M. Pederson
Compounding Pharmacy and Wellness Center
Curative Medicine
2622 NW 43rd St STE A1, Gainesville, FL 32606
(352) 565-1177
“Love Dr. Bennett! She is so customer service oriented, friendly, caring, knowledgeable and will go the extra mile for all of her patients. I wish I could give her 10 stars!” — S. Forbes
“The pharmacist and staff are knowledgeable and friendly. They go above and beyond to make sure their clients are well taken care of.” — M. O’Steen
Elevating the health and beauty of your smile to the Next Level
“Such kind staff and Dr. A is awesome. I waited until my 30’s to start my Invisalign journey and the best decision was choosing this place. I feel like at each appointment my teeth are very carefully examined and my treatment plan evolves as needed to meet my outcome goal. Can’t wait until my final result is reached. Loving how much progress my teeth have made already. My only regret is not doing it sooner!” — C. House
“I went to Next Level Orthodontics for my braces and from the first day to the last everyone was so pleasant and kind. I love the work they did. Now I can be happy smiling and not doubt it. Great thanks to Dr. Akhavan and his staff.” — E. John
The team at Next Level Orthodontics strives to maintain an environment that is focused on the quality, mutual respect and superior results while having as much fun as possible. Dedicated and professional, the team at Next Level Orthodontics works synergistically with one goal in mind, to help you get the most beautiful and healthy smile possible while creating a next level customer experience. Welcoming patients of all ages, the team at Next Level Orthodontics is ready to help. Visit them online or call to set up a complimentary consultation.
Family-Owned Serving the Best Authentic Thai Cuisine
“We love Bangkok Square! The pad thai is a favorite! The vegetarian options are yummy. The veggies are nicely cooked and big beautiful chunks. The people are so kind and respectful.” — S. Vani
“I had a great experience here. The servers are very polite and food was full of savory umami flavor. I had the chicken pad thai and crab meat soup for lunch. Lunch came with crunchy egg rolls and food came out hot and yummy. The price is extremely reasonable”. — Song N
“The only place I get Red Curry from. Always tastes great. The atmosphere there is really relaxing as well. Good place to have a small get together. They also have outside seating!” — S. Mariee
Square Restaurant
“Everything was top notch from the initial estimate with Emery to when they drove away with my yard looking immaculate. Emory was professional and friendly and they performed the work flawlessly. I had several trees removed, dead limbs removed from other trees, and the canopy raised throughout the yard. I would not hesitate to use them again and I definitely will recommend their service to anyone who asks.” — Paul Manning
“They did a fantastic job of removing two dead palm trees and trimming the remaining three palms for us. Would definately recommend you call them for your tree maintenance needs.” — Duane Tully
Quality Furniture Made with Real Wood
“Wood You Gainesville was able to design a custom built entertainment center for me. They were able to take the ideas I had in my head and create a great piece for my home. They did great work and I love what they created for me.” — B.
Krall
“Wonderful staff, very friendly and helpful. Nice selection of solid unfinished wood furniture with professional finishing available. Purchased Dressers and Desk for Student housing and so far we are extremely happy with the products.” — N. Moore
“My wife and I love Wood You. They were super helpful helping us choose a new dining room table and did an incredible job finishing it! We have a table big enough for our large family and one that will be with us for our grandchildren. Thank you!.” — J.Mitchell
The Masters Lawn Care is focused on delivering top-notch lawn care services while putting the needs of the customer first. Their team consists of certified and experienced professionals who are passionate about lawn care. They take pride in our work and believe that a well-manicured lawn not only enhances the look of your property but also has a positive impact on the environment. Their services range from routine lawn maintenance to full-scale landscaping projects, and use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure the job is done right.
The leader in high quality landscape and maintenance
“We recently hired The Master’s Lawn Care to remove a significant portion of our grass and incorporate new beds with our existing ones. Our experience with the team was great from the beginning to the end.” — A. Hanssen
“We are very happy with service we received from The Masters Lawn Care sod installation crew. We found D’Shaun particularly enjoyable to work with. They showed up on time, were very courteous and respectful of us and our property.”
— A. Bernard
“The Master’s Lawn Care always goes above and beyond for our company (Scorpio Construction). I would recommend them to anyone!”
— Alex H.
“I’m an insurance agent and I work very closely with Tryssa. She is a fantastic professional and I absolutely trust her with my clients. She’s extremely generous with her time and I would not hesitate to recommend her.” —
C. Floyd
“Tryssa is such a joy to work with, I cannot say enough positive words about her and her work ethic. I invested my retirement plan with her at Your Financial Legacy.Tryssa walked me through the process, clearly explaining every step and educating me on my options. I love that Tryssa cares about my financial future and that her business is built on investing responsibly.” —
A. Miller
“Tryssa has been the best at helping me plan for retirement. She truly cares about her clients and goes above & beyond.” — G.
Victorero
Tomlinson Motor Company has been providing automotive sales & service to the Gainesville area for almost 30 years. Family owned and operated, they have built a reputation for offering quality vehicles at unbeatable prices. Their philosophy is simple- make it easy and enjoyable for the customer and build relationships through repeat business and referrals. That is exactly what they have been doing all of these years and why they are now seeing second and even third generation Tomlinson buyers. It’s always nice to go where someone knows your name.
MOTOR COMPANY MOTOR COMPANY
Love your car, Love the process!
Tomlinson Motor Company 3580 N. Main St. Gainesville, FL 32609
“I could not have asked for a better experience getting my car! The guys at Tomlinson Motor Company in Gainesville are the BEST! John David “JD” was so patient, consistent, and helpful with getting me the exact car I wanted and needed! If you are looking for a car this is the place to go!” — J. Harvey
“Tomlinson is wonderful!! I purchased my car in August of this year. Bill Carter took care of me the whole way through. The process was fast, easy, welcoming and overall satisfactory. I’m in love with my new car... so much so my sister is purchasing from Tomlinson as well. Highly recommend. A good and honest business with more than fair prices.” — M. Fitzsimmons
“Dr. Webb will treat you like family.” — Rod S.
“Always smiling and always a pleasant experience which is weird when you consider that it is the dentist. Love Dr. Jordan and Dr. Patti.” — Tony M.
“The Gentle Dental Care staff were very friendly, kind, and concerned about my welfare. I would definitely recommend them if you are looking for a new dental professional to take care of you!” — Michelle G.
The End. Or is it really just the beginning?
Now it’s up to you to say something nice or share a positive experience.
We encourage you to take a moment and tell us what you love about these or other local businesses. Words matter – and what we say can have a meaningful impact.
Share The Love by posting on our Facebook page and telling us more about the people and places you LOVE. Love on!
This special section was brought to you by Our Town Magazine.
in Our Town
Restaurant Guide
The Paper Bag
Deli and Catering — Using only the freshest ingredients and serving the highest quality meats and cheeses, The Paper Bag Deli in Gainesville is quickly becoming the destination for custom prepared meals designed for people with a time sensitive schedule. Serving premium Boar’s Head meats, The Paper Bag has quick serve cold options you can grab and go from the fridge or order hot options from the counter. Have time to stay a while? You can relax on their sunny patio or at the bar-style seating and enjoy a variety of freshly baked artisan sandwiches, wraps, salads and much more. Enjoy your favorite local and domestic beers or order to go! We have many catering options for corporate, schools, and private parties. Call ahead to pick you order today!
Park Lane Apartments- 5750 SW 75th Court Suite 20
New Location!- 11 SE 1st Ave. Gainesville
Open Monday - Friday 10am - 6 pm
(352) 451-4972 thepaperbagdeli.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!
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 Sunday 8 am to 3 pm.
352-333-0291 www.DavesNYDeli.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
Arashi Yama
Authentic Sushi and Hibachi Lounge — Are you looking for the newest place in town to enjoy sushi? Welcome to Arashi Yama Authentic Sushi & Hibachi Lounge. Arashi Yama offers some of the best and most creative sushi by using only the freshest and finest ingredients available. Offering a pleasant and soothing dining ambiance. Arashi Yama’s menu includes all your sushi favorites, incredible Hibachi options and a full bar with craft cocktails. Don’t have time to stop in? Arashi Yama offers easy online ordering for all your to-go dining needs or is open for both lunch and dinner. Visit their website for more information and to check out their delicious menu.
Magnolia Parke - 4780 NW 39th Ave. Suite 1
Tuesday- Thursday: 11am-3 pm / 4:30-9:30
Happy Hour menu available Tuesday to Thursday 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Friday: 11 am - 3 pm / 4:30-10 pm Saturday: 11:30 am - 3 pm/ 4:30 pm - 10 pm
Sunday: 12 noon - 3 pm / 4:30 pm - 9 pm
Monday: Closed
Restaurant Guide
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
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.
19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (located in Mills Plaza) Monday- Sunday: 11:00am - 9pm
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
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
352-353-2889 Metrodiner.com
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.
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
SPRING CLEANING SIMPLIFIED
Decluttering Tips That Stick
While spring means a beautiful new season where days are longer, flowers are blooming, and renewal feels imminent, this can also be a turbulent time for some who are well into the school year or those who haven’t had a break since the last holiday season. While we might let academic or career responsibilities occupy most of our time, there is still a chance to make simple but significant improvements to the space you return to by the end of the day.
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
REFRESH YOUR FRIDGE & PANTRY AND REORGANIZE PERISHABLES & NONPERISHABLES
Head to the kitchen and throw out expired items. While you’re there, sort out some items reaching the end of their shelf life. Rearrange your fridge and pantry to ensure that the most perishable items are visible when you open the refrigerator. You might’ve heard the saying “out of sight, out of mind.” While this can be a great saying for mindfulness in some other situations, it can also be a disaster for maintaining your weekly rotation of groceries. Things like vegetables or dairy items could easily be pushed to the back and forgotten if you don’t have a visual reminder that they are still there. The great news is once you do this one large declutter and visually reorganize the food items, it’ll be that much easier to use all the food you have and stop wasting money on food that gets thrown out.
TACKLE DIGITAL CLUTTER
Clutter isn’t exclusive to your physical space; your phone could also be tidied up in many different areas. Emails, texts, and apps you used once and forgot about could take up precious storage space and make your screen look hectic and overwhelming.
If you are looking to tackle emails but don’t want to select them one by one, one helpful tip is to go to the search and type in the email address of any places you are subscribed to and then press “select all,” and then “mark as read” or “delete” if you are looking to clear them out completely. Also, take this time to look at your subscription options. Sometimes, they will allow you to receive fewer emails, or you can unsubscribe altogether. However, be cautious if you click anywhere on an email; that it’s a legitimate company or website.
Spam or potential phishing emails can be pesky and hard to get rid of, but if you want to clear these, try searching keywords from the subject lines or sender’s name, as many of them come from different email addresses. Again, after putting in the search terms, press “select all” and “delete” for any of the emails you are weary of. Soon enough, you can manage this incoming mail with much more ease.
Similarly to emails, text messages can also be full of scam texts that might get neglected rather than dealt with. So, go to your text messages and closely examine which senders ask you to click a link or pay a toll and click that delete button. You might also be able to report messages as “junk” if they come from an unknown sender.
L astly, look at your apps and manage or create folders to keep them all in one place. This will also allow you to see which apps you are constantly using and which ones to delete. Don’t forget to add some fun widgets or a new screensaver to give it some visual appeal.
FINALLY DONATE YOUR “DONATION BOX” ITEMS
W hether you have a literal box, a bag, or a heaping pile of clothes and other items, now is the time to finally go to your local thrift store or another local nonprofit needing certain items. Sort through clothing items in high demand at homeless shelters or animal rescues. Things like socks, shirts, shoes, blankets, and towels are among the things you can donate to make a massive difference in your community.
PLANNERS, CALENDARS, TO-DO LISTS
Never underestimate how motivating it can be to cross something off a list. While we can rely on some intrinsic motivation to jump-start our cleaning efforts, other responsibilities can pile up, and prioritizing tasks becomes more of a hassle as time passes. Studies have shown that buying a calendar or planner or getting a sheet of paper to write your daily to-dos can declutter your mind.
SET A SHORT TIMER TO START CLEANING
Another trick to use when motivation is low is to set a small goal to clean one area for five to ten minutes. Then, you can get back to whatever else you want to do. The goal is to tackle the area that needs the most attention, but ideally, you might find it easier to continue cleaning. Setting a timer will help you strictly focus on the task at hand, especially if you expect to only work for a few short minutes.
LET THE MUSIC MOVE YOU
If you need a mood booster as you clean, put on some headphones – preferably noise canceling – and put on a playlist of your
choosing. There are no strict rules on what music will lead to the most effective cleaning, so play anything that will distract you from the mundane tasks and make it a more positive experience. You can put on songs that will pump you up and make you dance, or you could put on some good singalongs, or you could even put on calming music that will provide consistent background noise. You could also set up songs to be like timers as well. See how much you can get done with one or two songs.
INVITE SOMEONE OVER
If nothing else kickstarts motivation, making plans to host guests at your place will get one working in no time. So, if your cleaning tasks are manageable enough, make plans to invite some friends and let this push you into full gear. Replace your trash bags, clear your recycling, put away dishes, sort out all your clothes, and add some final touches to your place, such as a scented candle or an essential oil diffuser. You’ll be left with a satisfying result and a welcoming space for your cherished guests.
R efreshing your space doesn’t have to be overwhelming—small, intentional changes can make a big difference in how you feel each day. Whether decluttering your home, tidying up your digital life, or setting the mood with music, these simple steps can help you welcome spring with a renewed sense of clarity and motivation. As you embrace the season of growth and new beginnings, take the time to create an environment that energizes and inspires you. After all, a fresh space can lead to a fresh mindset, setting the tone for the months ahead.
Providing not just shelter, But HOPE!
For women and families with children facing homelessness, hope can seem out of reach. St. Francis House is dedicated to changing that reality by providing safe shelter, essential services, and unwavering support to those most in need in our community. Through its mission to “Create New Futures,” St. Francis House empowers women and families to overcome obstacles and achieve stable, permanent housing.
As the only emergency shelter in the area serving both single women and families, St. Francis House offers more than just a place to sleep. Each guest receives individualized case management, connecting them with vital community resources and helping them develop realistic goals to regain stability. Whether it’s finding employment, securing permanent housing, or addressing other challenges, the compassionate staff at St. Francis House works tirelessly to guide each guest toward self-sufficiency.
In addition to shelter, St. Francis House serves nutritious meals to those in need, ensuring that no one goes hungry.
Their day services program extends support to the broader community, offering access to meals, hygiene items, and other critical resources. With an increasing demand for meals and emergency assistance, St. Francis House continues to be a vital resource for the community.
Beyond meeting immediate needs, St. Francis House fosters long-term change by connecting guests with employment resources, financial literacy programs, housing assistance, and much more. Their compassionate approach empowers individuals to reclaim their lives, reinforcing the belief that everyone deserves dignity, hope, and a chance to thrive.
Each year, St. Francis House provides support to an average of 600 people through its programs. Approximately 50 families, including 100 children, secure permanent housing with the organization’s assistance. In its commitment to fighting hunger, St. Francis House serves more than 80,000 meals annually to those facing housing and food insecurity.
Community support is crucial to St. Francis House’s success. From volunteering and donating essential items to sponsoring fundraising events, there are many ways to make a meaningful impact for vulnerable women and families. Every contribution – whether financial, in-kind, or time – helps provide hope, stability, and a fresh start for those who need it most.
By supporting St. Francis House, you help provide not just shelter, but hope. Together, we can create new futures for women and families with children experiencing homelessness. To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit stfrancishousegnv.com or follow @sfhgnv.
PO Box 12491 Gainesville, Fl. 32604
For questions, contact Nancy Short, Director of Community Relations at 352-215-2833
TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S
Reading Corner
“VANISHING
TREASURES: A BESTIARY OF EXTRAORDINARY ENDANGERED CREATURES”
by Katherine Rundell
C.2024
Who doesn’t love a good hunt for buried riches?
W hen you were a child, tales of pirates and gold-filled chests caught your fancy, and every bare spot in the ground had potential. You might have learned, as an adult, to use a metal detector, or you’ve changed your definition of riches. Now you hunt flea markets, thrift stores or, as in the new book “Vanishing Treasures” by Katherine Rundell, you just look outside.
An ostrich awkwardly hides by putting its head in the sand.
You’ve likely heard that myth all your life and by now, you probably know it’s not true. Human history is filled with things that were wrongly believed or misunderstood through the centuries, but if our forebears had only looked, they’d have found greater (and truer!) wonders in the creatures that surround us.
They might have been more careful with our natural resources, too. So many of the world’s creatures are endangered or have almost nearly disappeared.
Take, for instance, the wombat, whose defense mechanism is behind it: his hard-cartilage butt can crush the skull of a predator. Or the Greenland shark, who can live to be six hundred years old or more.
The raccoons that turn over your trash cans are “explorers,” preferring new places to eat and hang out in. Giraffe mothers produce wax on their nipples to keep milk from leaking, and seal mother’s milk is more than ten times fattier than human milk. Lemurs fight by shaking their stinky tails at one another and staring menacingly. Fecund hares can “get pregnant while already pregnant.” Elephants are terrified of bees. Seahorses and golden moles can turn rainbow colors. Other endangered creatures are killed for their
body parts but, says Rundell, “the sum total of authentic, non-medical, animal-based natural aphrodisiacs… is zero.”
To save them all from total extinction, she says, “The time to fight, with all our ingenuity and tenacity, and love and fury, is now.”
Imagine a world without tuna fish, hermit crabs, or elephants. Imagine no storks or bears. Can’t do it? Then you need to read “Vanishing Treasures.”
Likening our world to a “Noah’s Ark in reverse,” author Katherine Rundell gives readers many good and fascinating reasons to care about these endangered creatures, and her words are urgent but she doesn’t preach. Instead, there’s wry humor in the way she presents facts, and that’ll make you laugh sometimes. The last chapter will give you pause.
You’ll also be amazed at what you’ll learn about both the everyday animals and the creatures you don’t see often – information that’s shared in short, quick-to-read essays that present wide-eyed wonder at the astounding things those animals can do and the adaptations nature has given them. That makes this book an almost awe-inspiring celebration of animal differences, and a love letter to the things you won’t want to see vanish.
Cer tainly, animal lovers will want to read this book, as will anyone concerned about wildlife, conservancy, or climate change. For anyone ages 15 to adult, “Vanishing Treasures” is good as gold.
Charity of the Month CONGRATULATIONS
RADIANT CREDIT UNION’S
CHARITY OF THE MONTH WINNER
November 2024 Winner: Child Advocacy Center
Radiant Credit Union is proud to spotlight the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) in Gainesville as our November Charity of the months winner.
The CAC is a beacon of hope for children who have experienced abuse and neglect, providing a child-friendly, safe, and supportive environment where healing begins.
At the CAC, a dedicated team of social workers, counselors, law enforcement officers, victim advocates, and medical professionals collaborate to coordinate investigations and provide essential care. This integrated approach ensures that children and their families receive the support and services they need while minimizing re-traumatization.
Our recent contribution of $1,000 will help the CAC continue its vital mission to protect and advocate for vulnerable children in our community. These funds will support their efforts to deliver compassionate care, critical resources, and a path to brighter futures for children and families facing unimaginable challenges.
We’re honored to stand with organizations like the CAC that work tirelessly to strengthen our community and the lives of those who need it most.
Join us in selecting the next Charity of the Month and help highlight organizations making a difference in our community.
Cast your vote now at radiantcu.org/com! #WeShineBrighterTogether
To nominate a charity or to vote for your favorite nominee visit:
“We feel the best way to find and recognize local charities in our community is by asking you!”
About Radiant Credit Union’s Charity of the Month Program...
The program was started in 2013 as a way for our communities to recognize their favorite local charities. Since that time Radiant has donated thousands of dollars to charities in our area.
Each month Radiant awards the winning charity $1,000. All 501(c)(3) charities headquartered in Radiant’s service area (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee or Union County in Florida) are eligible to enter the contest.
Entering your favorite charity is easy and you could win $100 if the charity you entered wins. For complete rules and step-by-step instructions go to RadiantCU.org/com.
School of the Month
November 2024 Recipient: Wyomina Park Elementary
We are pleased to announce Wyomina Park Elementary as our School of the Month for November!
As the first school in Ocala to receive this honor, Radiant Credit Union is proud to donate $1,000 in support of their commitment to educational excellence.
Special thanks to our Ocala Branch Manager, Laura Cook, for presenting the award and celebrating this achievement with the school.
Thank you Wyomina Park Elementary for your dedication to empowering students in our community.
Together, we’re building a brighter future for the next generation.
