/OurTown-Summer2011

PAINTBALL | SOLAR POWERED HOME | HUMANS vs. ZOMBIES

Summer 2011

FREE TAKE ONE

Passion for the Craft Discover the Extraordinary Art of Microbrewed Beer

SANDRA MEZA pg.118 Colombian immigrant, young mother and rising star of swimwear fashion design

STEVE EVERETT pg.64 Encouraging area students to get outside for a better perspective

DAYCATIONS pg.24 Your guide to many of our favorite summer destinations that are just a quick trip from home

Choose your Experience

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MODE SALON EAST

MODE SALON WEST

A DAVINES MULTISPACE CONCEPT SALON

AN AVEDA CONCEPT SALON

603 E University Avenue Gainesville, FL 32601 352-374-3883

1123 NW 76th Boulevard Gainesville, FL 32606 352-332-8009

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PLEASE PRESENT UPON ARRIVAL FOR APPOINTMENT ~ NO EXCHANGES FOR CASH ~

2 | Summer 2011 LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

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North Florida’s Only JA Certified Master Jeweler

• Luxury Diamonds & Bridal • Pandora • Computer Aided Custom Design Rick & Melinda Sanders

9119 SW 52nd Ave. Suite C-102 — Haile Plantation Village Center

352.331.6100 • www.SandersJewelers.net www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 3

Ashton Ridge S U B D I V I S I O N

CBC #1256897

NEW HOMES STARTING AS LOW AS $116,900 — MODEL HOME PRICING — Madison ....................... $116,900 Moultrie......................... $118,852 Macon ............................... $121,775 Newnan .............................$124,113 Hampton ..................... $125,277 Albany ............................. $125,962

Albany Two............... $129,910 Henderson.................$130,106 Charleston ................ $135,534 Savannah ....................$138,670 Charlotte ....................... $141,510 Douglasville........... $152,488

Drive a little save a lot!

www.ashtonridge.me For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call

352-359-1070

The Camerons… Make it happen!

5110 SW 91st Drive, Suite A • Gainesville, Florida 32608

Ralph Cameron.........................352-359-1060 MOBILE Bonnie Cameron..................... 352-359-1070 MOBILE 4 | Summer 2011

Affordable Services of Florida Formerly known as Mr. Goodtree of Florida, Inc.

Complete Tree Service

Including:

Safe Removal

Tree Trimming & Removal Stump & Debris Removal

Sabal Palms Professionalism at it’s best

Palms (Buy & Sell)

Florida’s State Tree

We Specialize In All Aspects of Tree Service — Serving Gainesville and the surrounding communities since 1974 —

352-262-PALM (7256) www.mrgoodtree.com • www.palmtreecharlie.com • www.tikis4u.com — INSURED BY LLOYDS OF LONDON —

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 5

Cyndi Vista CNM, ARNP

Michael Cotter M.D.

Carmen Peden M.D., Ph.D.

PERSONALIZED CARE YOU CAN TRUST AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE At North Florida Woman Care, we strive to provide the highest level of obstetrics, gynecology and midwifery care. Offering in-office procedures utilizing state-of-the-art technologies, we are devoted to addressing the individual needs and demands of our patients in a warm, caring environment.

— W E AC C E P T M O S T M A J O R H E A LT H I N S U R A N C E —

WE ARE PLEASED TO WELCOME

Carmen Peden

North Florida Woman Care Obstetrics and Gynecology

352.371.2011 www. CotterOBGYN .com

MD, PhD, board eligible OB/GYN

6 | Summer 2011

GAINESVILLE: 6400 W. Newberry Road, Suite 207 CHIEFLAND: 1415 NW 23rd Avenue

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When Experience Matters…

Dr. Reddy has been in this area since 2002, practicing in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, with a doctorate from Osmania University/ Gandhi Medical College; Residency & Fellowship at Chicago Medical School; an additional Fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio; and is Board Certified by the American Board of Gastroenterology, specializing in Hepatology.

The majority of Dr. Reddy’s patients have the convenience of traveling to only one location for consultation as well as any procedure that may be needed. Dr. Reddy’s experience makes him one of the leading physician experts in Gastroenterology and Hepatology and is frequently consulted on difficult cases.

Dr. Reddy consults with patients needing care in Gastroenterology and/or Hepatology, treats Hepatitis patients, performs colonoscopies and endoscopies at Central Florida Endoscopy & Surgical Institute of Ocala, LLC as well as area hospitals, with privileges at Munroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital.

Medicare & Most Health Insurances Accepted Ocala

E. Silver Springs Blvd.

Dr. Vishnu Reddy 7 Hill Gastroenterology, PA 316 SE 12th Street, Building 200 Ocala, Florida 34471 352.401.1919 M-F: 8am – 5pm

Dr. Vishnu Reddy

Ocala Regional Medical Center

SE 17th Street

Hospital Affiliations: Munroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 7

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10 | Summer 2011

V o p a s

If you’re looking for a way to enhance your smile, there are a variety of options to choose from, including veneers, ceramic crowns, bonding, and whitening.

Veneers - Cosmetic option where thin pieces of porcelain applied to the front surface of the tooth.

Crowns - Cover each tooth entirely affecting the overall appearance of your natural smile.

Bonding - Improve color, close gaps and minor imperfections using a tooth-colored filling material.

Whitening - Does exactly that. Brighter, whiter smiles make a difference and boost your confidence!

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

SAMANT DENTAL GROUP, P.A. 2727 NW 43 rd Street, Suite 8 Thornebrook Complex 352.376.5120 visit us online at www.SamantDentalGroup.com www.VisitOurTowns.com

Dr. Paivi Samant M.A., D.D.S. Prosthodontist Summer 2011 | 11

CONTENTS SUMMER 2011 • VOL. 02 ISSUE 02 >> OFF THE GRID

More Power to You Local Couple Dispels Misconceptions About Solar Power in the Home PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY JANICE C. KAPLAN

T

he mere mention of the words “Solar-powered home” can send people into rounds of debate over the myths of solar energy. “You have to live by candlelight.” “Solar power is not cost effective or reliable.” “You need a lot of land for all of that equipment.” “What do you do when it rains?”

But as more options become available for solar power at the residential level, it becomes apparent that this clean form of

energy can be applied practically and without extensive sacrifice to one’s way of life.

Such is the case for Wayne and Kori Irwin. The husband and wife owners of Pure Energy Solar live with their two dogs in a house that is completely off the grid — that is, they are not connected to Gainesville Regional Utilities and receive no bill for their electricity or water usage. Their eight-kilowatt solar-power system generates all of the electricity

Wayne and Kori Irwin on the front steps of their solar-powered home. The couple live entirely off of the grid, using the sun’s energy to power everything in their home.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

42 | Summer 2011

Summer 2011 | 43

42

By Janice C. Kaplan

Off the Grid Wayne and Kori Irwin live in a home powered by solar energy. They designed their home to be as energy efficient as possible. “Half of the battle is cutting back your consumption,” Wayne said. “Providing your own energy is a great solution, but the two coupled together is really what needs to happen and makes it successful.”

>> SUMMER RULES!

98

This Ain’t Your Parents’

Summer Camp

By Janice C. Kaplan

Sweet Summer Camps

Unique Alternatives to Traditional Summer Camps

BY JANICE C. KAPLAN

A

hh, the signs of summer.

The splashing of water mingling with swimmers’ shouts of glee. The aroma of char-grilled burgers and dogs wafting through the air. The hum of lawnmowers. And among it all, the yearly battle cry of children everywhere: “I’m BORED!”

PHOTOS PROVIDED COURTESY OF HIPPODROME STATE THEATRE AND LOGA SPRINGS ACADEMY

Great Southern Music Camp This weeklong camp is exclusively for youngsters ages 3-6 and includes singing, movement, instrument play and other musical exploration. Sessions run July 11-15 or July 18-22 from 9:30 - 11:00 am, and are held at Great Southern Music on Newberry Road. Cost is $50 per child for the session and class is limited to eight students.

Call 352-505-5440 for additional

With the school year finished once again, many parents find themselves looking for ways to occupy their children’s time. And while Gainesville has some great traditional summer camp options, one might not know that there are many unique alternatives as well. From fencing to fine art, life-guarding to technology building, parents can find a stimulating yet fun experience for even the pickiest of campers.

information.

Theatre The Hippodrome State Theatre offers its annual variety of camps for a wide range of ages and experience levels. Younger beginners explore the dramatic arts through story telling, improvisation, art, voice and movement, culminating in a performance for family and friends.

Older campers participate in workshops on audition techniques, acting and dancing, and they also learn about production aspects such as marketing, set building, lighting

www.VisitOurTowns.com

98 | Summer 2011

and costume design. This program concludes with a performance on a Hippodrome stage. Sessions run 2-4 weeks throughout the summer.

Family and multi-camp discounts are available. Check www.thehipp. org for more information and registration forms.

Loga Springs Academy The east Gainesville school offers summer camps on archeology (June 6-10), clay building (June 13-17), world dance (June 20-24),

Summer 2011 | 99

Looking for something different to occupy your child’s summer months?

Here is a guide to just a few of the fun and unique camps being offered in Gainesville this summer. From fencing to acting class and horseback riding to entomology, there is a wide variety of extraordinary activities for your special youngster.

>> THE FUTURE IS NOW. SORTA.

Are Electric Cars Here to Stay?

The Chevrolet Volt is here. The Nissan LEAF is coming. Ford, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes and Audi are all working on their own versions of the electric car. Is it safe to say the future of electric cars has arrived? Not quite yet.

BY AMANDA DA WILLIAMSON

T

new electric car before it is on the market. However, this Volt is for sale.

The car is expected to be

and Connecticut.

The Nissan LEAF (“Leading, Environmentally Friendly,

Christi Malamatos, a GM trainer, said the Volt hopes to target the average consumer. By taking away

only car in a household.

“To understand why the Volt could be so important to two once-

costs an average of $3.64,” states an article on Time.com entitled, “The Chevy Volt: GM’s Huge Bet on

Davis Jr. purchased the vehicle from a dealer in California where the model is already available

he first Volt pulled into Gainesville as a show car at Palm Chevrolet. Rick

available in the Southeast region mid-September for 2012 models.

The Volt is currently available in

Affordable, Family Car”) is also expected to be available nationwide in the second half of the year.

the range anxiety, which is the fear that the driver could run out of battery power before reaching the

dominant institutions that have hit hard times -- General Motors and the United States -- all you need to

the Electric Car.” “We’re spending around $700 billion a year to import oil, with much of that money being

for customers to buy. He hopes to inspire people’s interest in the

California, New York, Michigan, Texas, New Jersey, Washington D.C.

Gainesville Nissan hopes to get a LEAF sometime this summer.

intended destination, Malamatos said the Volt could function as the

do is visit your nearest gas station, where a gallon of unleaded now

shipped to countries that don’t like us very much.”

152 | Summer 2011

12 | Summer 2011

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 153

152

By Amanda Williamson

High Voltage!

Believe it or not, the first crude electric car was invented in 1832 by Robert Anderson, according to www.pbs.org.

By 1900, the electric automobile represented about one-third of all cars found on the roads of New York City, Boston, and Chicago. Now, more than a century later, they could very well be making a comeback.

108 PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

>> FEATURES

ON THE COVER

24

In this issue, we take a look behind-the-scenes at the incredible world of microbrewing. Brandon Nappy, Craig Birkmaier, Luke Kemper, Katie Allen and Nick Dunn make it all happen at Swamp Head Brewery, which supplies a variety of locally brewed beer to more than 30 restaurants and bars in Gainesville.

Daycations Your Guide to a Few of Our Favorite Summer Destinations That are Just a Quick Trip from Home

BY CRYSTAL HENRY

52

A Shot of Fun Experience the Exhilarating Adrenaline Rush of Paintball Competition

BY MATTHEW BEATON

58

Humans vs. Zombies All Across Campus, A War is Raging Between the Living and the Undead

BY MALLORY SEARCY

64

Steve Everett Get Outside. Stay Outside. No Excuses.

BY KAYLA ROBINS

72

Newnans Lake Discovery The World’s Largest Find of Ancient Watercraft Right Here in Gainesville

BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

108 A Passion for the Craft Celebrating the Craft and Versatility of Microbrewed Beer

BY JANICE C. KAPLAN

COLUMNISTS 40 Crystal Henry NAKED SALSA 78 Brian “Krash” Kruger GATE CRASHING 116 Albert Isaac DIFFERENT NOTE 160 Jessica Chapman ADVENTURES IN APPETITE

INFORMATION 82 Going Out to Eat 86 Community Calendar 168 Advertiser Index

The articles printed in Our Town Magazine™ do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Tower Publications, Inc. or their editorial staff. Our Town Magazine endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we can not be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Our Town Magazine reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. All rights reserved. © 2010 Tower Publications, Inc.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 13

122 Published quarterly by Tower Publications, Inc. www.towerpublications.com

PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre charlie@towerpublications.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Albert Isaac editor@towerpublications.com fax: 1-800-967-7382 OFFICE MANAGER Bonita Delatorre bonita@towerpublications.com ART DIRECTOR Hank McAfee hank@towerpublications.com SENIOR DESIGNER Tom Reno tom@towerpublications.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF COMUNE DI LERICI

Come along with us to the Italian Riviera where breathtaking scenes like this are commonplace. Eco del Mare (shown) is one of the gulf’s most secluded beaches, making it a popular destination for many VIPs.

>> FEATURES 118

Sandra Meza Colombian Immigrant, Young Mother, and... Swimwear Fashion Designer

BY C. NOORIEL NOLAN

122 Jewel of the Italian Riviera

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Matthew Beaton Jessica Chapman Mary Goodwin Crystal Henry Janice Kaplan Julia Macaluso C. Nooriel Nolan Kayla Robins Mallory Searcy Denise Trunk-Krigbaum Amanda Williamson INTERN Victoria Lasavath ADVERTISING SALES Jenni Bennett 352-416-0210 jenni@towerpublications.com Larkin Kieffer 352-416-0212 larkin@towerpublications.com

The Gulf of La Spezia Goes Beyond the Typical Tourist Itinerary

Amanda Skadhauge 352-416-0196 amanda@towerpublications.com

BY JULIA MACALUSO

Pam Sapp 352-416-0213 pam@towerpublications.com

128 Climbing for a Cure Scaling Mountains to Conquer Cancer

BY MARY GOODWIN

134 Getting the Healthy Blues

Helen Stalnaker 352-416-0209 helen@towerpublications.com Annie Waite 352-416-0204 annie@towerpublications.com

Organic Blueberries

BY DENISE TRUNK KRIGBAUM

142 Defined By Water Florida’s Eden Takes on the Plight of the Springs

BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

14 | Summer 2011

ADVERTISING OFFICE 4400 NW 36th Avenue Gainesville, FL 32606 352-372-5468 352-373-9178 fax

A E

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Al ch

W of me Ce ing cu tio fro eig

You Have a Choice for your child’s education.

Alachua Learning Center Elementary and Middle School located just North of the town of Alachua on State Road 235, serves students from all parts of Alachua and neighboring counties.

Charter Schools are part of the Florida Alternative System of Public School Choice and charge no tuition.

While having the benefits of a “small-school” environment the Alachua Learning Center provides a challenging and fulfilling academic, cultural and physical educational program for students from kindergarten through eighth grade.

The Alachua Learning Center has consistently been rated an “A” school by the State of Florida.

Our varied physical education curriculum includes on-campus rock climbing and subscribes to the “President’s Fitness Program”.

The Alachua Learning Center offers inspiring classes on a variety of subjects: Science, Social Studies, Language Arts, Math, P.E. Sports, Rock Climbing, Drama, Music, Clay Sculpting, Computer Graphics, individual Student Book Publishing (writing, design, illustrating), Drawing, Painting, Crafts, Community Service Display Projects, and exciting Field Trips.

Alachua Learning Center 386-418-2080

www.VisitOurTowns.com Summer 2011 alachualearningcenter.com

| 15

Summer is upon us at last.

Actually, I shouldn’t say at last, because I’ve rather enjoyed leaving the A/C off and the windows open.

Nevertheless, it’s time to start planning our vacations and thinking about summer camps, of heading to the mountains or cruising to the beach. Indeed, it’s time to begin mowing the yard every week

16 | Summer 2011

and perhaps starting that summer vegetable garden (I’ve got corn, onions and tomatoes going, and I don’t even like tomatoes!).

Personally, I’m starting to reevaluate my decision to clear some of our property in order to increase the size of the backyard, because as a result I now have a lot more to mow and otherwise maintain. But the kids love the extra space. So it’s all good.

Gas prices being what they are,

I know many of us may be forgoing the typical long vacation drives in favor of a Daycation; shorter, less costly trips. In this edition, we’ve pulled together some information about a few of the fun spots to spend the day — or the weekend — to “get away from it all.”

And speaking of gas prices, whatever happened to the electric cars? Well, they’re back. And perhaps they are here to stay. In a perfect world, I’d be driving one, and charging it in my carport using solar energy.

In this edition, we take a look at two brand new electric cars soon hitting the streets of Gainesville — and they’re not hybrids.

We also visit a husband and wife that live entirely off the grid, in one of the “greenest” homes in Gainesville.

Summer means it’s time to hit the rivers and springs in our area.

Most of us take these incredible resources for granted. However, they are in trouble. Learn about a local group, “Florida’s Eden,” that does its best to protect our most valuable resource.

From paintball battles, to zombies, from beer brewing to berry picking, I think there is something for everyone in this edition of Our Town Magazine.

PHOTO BY TIM MERRELL

MESSAGE >> FROM THE EDITOR

SPECIAL >> WON’T BACK DOWN

BY ALBERT ISAAC hances are — you or someone you know — has been affected by cancer.

I’ve heard that these are five of the most dangerous words a person can utter: “Maybe it will go away.”

Don’t procrastinate; see your doctor.

As I type these words, my sister is battling the disease. Additionally, my mother has successfully fought off this monster twice. Personally, I have had two cancerous spots removed (a visit to my dermatologist prevented a potentially lethal situation).

The list goes on. Young and old — even the infant son of a friend of mine — all have fought this disease and have emerged victorious.

And now, our very own Brian “Krash” Kruger, attorney, musician and roving reviewer of the local music scene, has faced the monster. Brian, a nonsmoker, recently finished treatments for tonsil cancer.

His battle, which he bravely posted online with humor and candor (he named his tumor Rutherford, inspired by “Lumpy” Rutherford from the TV show “Leave it to Beaver”), included surgery, chemo and radiation therapy. His motto: “I’m strivin’ for survivin’.”

We are pleased to report that Brian is cancer free and back in the saddle, although it’s safe to say he never completely left the saddle. He continued to work and perform in his various musical groups and write music reviews for Our Town Magazine throughout his treatments.

C

Summertime

SPECIALS LOVE GREAT DEALS? BECOME A GATOR DOMINO’S FAN ON FACEBOOK! facebook.com/gatordominos

MIX-N-MATCH (PICK 2 OR MORE)

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LARGE 2-TOPPING PIZZA + TWO OVEN BAKED SANDWICHES

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PIZZA and CHICKEN LARGE 2-TOPPING PIZZA + AN 8PC. ORDER OF BONELESS CHICKEN OR BUFFALO WINGS So, welcome back Brian. We are looking forward to reading more about the Gainesville music scene in the coming years. And a hearty “Don’t Back Down!” to my dear sister and all the brave souls fighting the good fight against this dreaded disease. s

O2B KIDS SPECIAL LARGE UNLIMITED TOPPINGS PIZZA + MEDIUM 1-TOPPING PIZZA + A 2 PC. ORDER OF CHOCOLATE LAVA CRUNCH CAKES

For online support visit: csn.cancer.org

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Foundation Problems?

Don’t let your biggest investment crumble around you.

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Our area is well known for sink hole activity and shifting soil.

If your home is sitting on shaky ground your largest investment could be in jeopardy. There are solutions and they may not be as expensive or as vexing as you may think. The first and most important thing to do is have a professional consultant inspect your foundation and get possible solutions. That doesn’t cost anything with Ram Jack».

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386-462-3001 ramjack.com CBC1255391

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Serving Gainesville for 40 Years!

SUMMER NEVER TASTED THIS GOOD!

Carryout Special

A V A I L A B L E A L L D A Y O N M O N D A Y, T U E S D A Y & W E D N E S D A Y

$

99

LARGE 3-TOPPING PIZZA 7

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Domino’s is your choice this summer for fantastic deals on Gainesville’s best pizza, pasta, chicken & sandwiches. Come by any one of our 8 locations for this great summer carryout special — and don’t forget to check out GatorDominos.com for even more deals.

OPEN FOR

LUNCH

34th & University Ave.

2106 SW 13th Street

NW G’ville, Jonesville & Newberry

352-377-4992 352-373-2337 352-333-3333 4620 NW 39th Ave.

25 NW 16th Avenue

Tower Rd/Haile/Archer Rd.

352-692-2222 352-373-5555 352-373-8888 From Your Laptop or Webphone right to Your Door!

HAILE HOTLINE 37-HAILE

www.gatordominos.com

Serving Haile Plantation

PARA ORDENAR EN ESPAÑOL 1-888-DOMINOS (1-888-366-4667) www.VisitOurTowns.com Summer 2011 | 19 LOVE GREAT DEALS? BECOME A GATOR DOMINO’S FAN ON FACEBOOK! facebook.com/gatordominos

STAFF >> CONTRIBUTORS Julia Macaluso

Denise Trunk Krigbaum

is a freelance writer, translator and business English teacher living in Milan, Italy. A born Gator, she spends her time abroad teaching everyone about Gainesville...and now, of course, they all want to visit!

is a freelance writer, adjunct professor at UF, wife and a mom. She has lived in Gainesville for eons and has managed to turn over a few stones while here. She has found many hidden gems.

More remain to be discovered.

juliamacaluso@gmail.com

dtrunk@ufl.edu

Matthew Beaton

Mary Goodwin

is a freelance journalist who recently earned his master’s in mass communications from UF. He enjoys romping with his mutt friend, Jack. They both find bananas and the Jersey Shore unpalatable.

Jack, however, is a much more avid reader.

is a student in UF’s College of Journalism and Communications. She enjoys time with family and friends, writing, traveling, music, baking and spending entire days outdoors.

Janice Kaplan

Amanda Williamson

has been a freelance writer since 2005. In her spare time Janice loves cooking, Gator sports, Jimmy Buffett anything and spending time with her husband and kids.

is a student in UF’s College of Journalism and Communications. She has been writing for as long as she can remember. She enjoys spending time with her friends, family and animals.

kaplan_ janice@yahoo.com

mgoodwin@ufl.edu

awilliamson@ufl.edu

20 | Summer 2011

Nooriel Nolan

Jessica Chapman

is a freelance writer who is passionate about the written word. Reading at a young age submerged her in language and fostered a love of story telling. Her other loves include: running trails, homemade pottery, and family. cnnolan81@gmail.com

is a student in UF’s College of Journalism and Communications. When she’s not writing, she enjoys volunteering, playing the piano and reading.

Mallory Searcy

Kayla Robins

is a freelance writer enrolled at UF studying public relations. She plans to pursue a career in advertising or campaign organization, and enjoys writing fiction and spending time with friends.

is a junior at the University of Florida and wants to specialize in environmental journalism. If she had the choice, she would always be outside or traveling. She is also a huge Harry Potter freak.

masearcy@ufl.edu

krobins@ufl.edu

Crystal Henry

Brian “Krash” Kruger

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.

is writer, musician and a graduate of the UF College of Law. He has played in some 17 or so local bands, playing most every Gainesville venue friendly to original music (and some not so friendly).

ces03k@gmail.com

bkrashpad@yahoo.com

jessicalorriane@gmail.com

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BY CRYSTAL HENRY acation i V Vacation...I i I love l ya vacation. i It’s only a day away.

When life gets crowded with work and responsibilities, it is hard to resist the beckoning of that sweet summer sun. It is a scientific fact that heat only increases pressure, so it is only natural that the hottest of all seasons creates a need to get away from it all.

But when taking many vacation days is not an option, daycations are the perfect reprieve for downtrodden souls. And Central Floridians are lucky enough to have fun and relaxing getaways just a hop skip and a quick drive away.

V

CRESCENT BEACH 70.7 miles from Gainesville Nothing says relaxation like a day at the beach.

And Crescent Beach boasts one of the most unspoiled beaches in all of Florida. Start with breakfast at the South Beach Grill and watch the waves crash as you

24 | Summer 2011

enjoy j H Hawaiian ii sweet bread b d French F h toast or the h crab b and egg Oscar. Then take a walk on the beach or grab your tackle for some surf fishing. Crescent Beach is the closest beach to the University of Florida, so it’s not unheard of for students to ditch class when the conditions are just right for body or board surfing. There are also boat rentals, places to dive, and fishing charters for those seeking a little adventure.

ST. AUGUSTINE 77 miles from Gainesville Just 10 miles up from Crescent on Florida A1A is the historic beach town of St. Augustine. Anastasia State Recreation Park is a protected bird sanctuary that offers five miles of sandy beaches. Beach bums can swim and have access to lifeguards, grills, picnic areas and a bathhouse. Amp up the excitement with parasailing, fishing, canoeing and other water sports; or just chill out under an umbrella on the beach. Vilano

>> DAY TRIPPER

This is Florida — where the world comes to vacation.

Get out there and enjoy it. beach beach be h is north th on A1A just just over over the the Usina Usin Usi n Bridge, and only three minutes from downtown St. Augustine.

A This quiet beach is a local favorite and home to waterfront restaurants, a fishing pier and Sea Doo rentals. r S St. Augustine A i boasts b a rich i h history hi and beautiful scenery. St. Augustine was founded 55 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, making it the oldest permanent European settlement in North America.

Today tourists ride sightseeing trains and visit historic sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos. The fort is located in downtown St. Augustine, and offers a great view of St. Augustine Bay. On weekends, be sure to catch the weapons demonstration with the cannons firing from the roof of the monument. Then swagger down to the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum, which boasts the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts. The museum has interactive exhibits, a pirate treasure chest and other shipwreck treasures.

The summer breezes make for pleasant walks down St. George Street where shops, restaurants and pubs await. Nights in St. Augustine bring ghost tours and carriage rides. Try the 80-minute pet-friendly walking tour that shares historical tales of the dark side

St. Augustine

of St. Augustine, such as pirate sackings, massacres, unsolved murders and strange burial customs. Or indulge your taste buds with the Savory Faire or Pub Crawl tours.

St. Augustine is home to a plethora of fresh seafood, and the Sunset Grille serves it up in a relaxed family friendly environment. Start with the sea spuds, potato skins stuffed with crabmeat, fish, shrimp, ‘shrooms

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 25

Castillo de San Marcos — St. Augustine

Flagler College

26 | Summer 2011

Cedar Key

Rainbow Springs

and melted cheddar. Then bite into the Sunset Grouper, which is served seared or blackened and topped with creamy shrimp and crab sauce. Land lovers can dive into the grilled cheeseburger. This heavenly melding of a grilled cheese sandwich and a hamburger will send your taste buds into a pleasure coma. And don’t leave the city without satisfying your sweet tooth at the Hidalgo. The Café del Hidalgo on Hypolita Street is the place to find creamy and cool gelato on a hot St. Augustine day. Pick three flavors to top off your cone — and your daycation to beautiful St. Augustine.

CEDAR KEY 57 miles from Gainesville Across the state, visitors step back into Old Florida in the quiet and picturesque town of Cedar Key. What was once a thriving port city and railroad connection is now a quaint place for a peaceful getaway. Begin your day at the Cedar Key Museum State Park, complete with exhibits that portray Cedar Key’s colorful history.

Enlighten your belly Monday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm Sundays: 12noon - 8pm

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Cedar Key Saint Clair Whitman, founder of the first Cedar Key museum, collected the seashells and Native American artifacts that are on display. Visitors can find wildlife and native vegetation on a short nature trail. The town also has an historical museum with prehistoric artifacts and an extensive collection of old Cedar Key photos. The Andrews house is an annex that opened in 2002. The historic home was donated by the Andrews family and was originally a mill house.

Cedar Key has been named one of the top ten places to bike in Florida by BikeFlorida.net, and visitors can find several places to rent bikes. Cruise around and explore places like the Island Hotel, which is on the National Register of Historical Buildings.

This coastal town also has great places to kayak, fish or go sailing. But one of its biggest draws is the local birding opportunities. The town has great birding spots for guests along the causeway to the island. Rent a boat or take a boat tour to Seahorse Key. The key is part of the wildlife refuge, and has a buffer zone closed to visitors from March until the end of June to protect the birds during nesting season.

Cedar Key has two big festivals each year, the

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Summer 2011 | 27

F F Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour — Winter Park (Orlando)

RAINBOW SPRINGS 43 miles from Gainesville One of Florida’s greatest treasures lies somewhere over the rainbow, or rather under the Rainbow Springs.

Archaeological evidence suggests that people have been using Florida’s fourth largest spring for nearly 10,000 years. From the 1930s to the 1970s, the springs were the site of a popular, privately owned attraction.

The cool clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, canoeing and kayaking. Rentals are available at the headsprings, and visitors can grill out at the picnic area. Tubing is not allowed at the headsprings, but there is a separate tube entrance down the road.

ORLANDO Rainbow Springs Seafood Festival in October and the Festival of the Arts in April. The festivals feature local seafood and clams as well as arts and crafts.

End your day with a sunset view at Coconuts of Cedar Key. This sports tavern has a full-service bar with a full walk-around deck and outside tables. Pull your boat up to the dock, or walk up from Dock Street to grab some grub and take in the sights. Bring your rod and reel and fish off their back deck for a little rest and relaxation in Cedar Key.

28 | Summer 2011

113 miles from Gainesville With theme parks out the wazoo, it’s no wonder that Orlando has become the poster child of Florida vacations. But this busy city has more to offer than mouse ears and roller coasters - it also has a natural beauty to share with its patrons. The Harry P. Leu Gardens treats visitors to nature’s splendors with butterfly gardens, art exhibits and monthly outdoor movie screenings.

Take a short tour of the historic house, and enjoy the breeze on its shady porch. The tours run daily, however the house museum is closed in July. Stroll through the paved scenic walkways on a self-guided tour that takes you through 50 acres of southern style gardens. The

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Jacksonville Zoo

gardens are home to America’s third largest camellia collection, three acres of ideas for weekend garden projects, the largest formal rose garden in Florida and a two-acre tropical stream garden. They also offer classes on things like landscaping and horticulture, and visitors can take advantage of free daytime garden admission on their birthday.

After discovering Orlando’s roots, take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride. Get a bird’s eye view of everything Orlando has to offer. Discover wildlife and smell the orange groves as you float through the air.

Just as you’re back on dry land, it’s time to get your feet wet with some off-the-beaten-path activities.

Less than 10 minutes from downtown Orlando is the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. This hour-long guided cruise travels through three of the seven lakes in the area and two narrow man-made canals. Visitors can observe large cranes and lazy alligators as well as the occasional water skier or racing shell full of Rollins College crewmembers. Then see how the other half lives as you cruise along the lavish homes and sprawling estates that line the shores. For those who just want a taste of the good life, the dock is less than 5 minutes from an upscale shopping district.

For a little more bite in your boat, check out the airboat tours in Orlando. The night tours are the best chance to see alligators in the wild. Set out through the murky swamps as these carnivores glide across

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Jacksonville Skyline

the water seeking their next kill. Use your miner’s cap to seek out the telltale red eyes of one of the most revered reptiles in Florida. This tour gives a whole new meaning to Go Gators.

JACKSONVILLE 71 miles from Gainesville Those looking to escape their wild life with some wildlife can head up to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. This walking safari allows visitors to discover nature’s bounty through interactive and educational

experiences. Bring your camera and capture the sights and sounds of the Range of the Jaguar, Giraffe Overlook and Savanna Blooms garden. The zoo boasts over 1,800 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants.

Then head out to Little Talbot Island to discover nature in its untouched habitat. The island is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida. Take in the maritime forests, desert-like dunes and undisturbed salt marshes, and keep your eyes peeled for river otters, marsh rabbits, bobcats and native and migratory birds.

Visitors can mix nature with culture at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The museum began as a relatively small collection of 60 pieces that has grown to more than 6,000 works of art encompassing 8,000 years of art history. The gardens are situated on the banks of the St. Johns River, and have a fascinating history that stretches back over 100 years. The museum is in its 50th year celebration, and has planned events throughout the summer to mark the milestone, including the unveiling of the restored Tudor Room and core pieces from Mrs. Cummer’s original collection.

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Summer 2011 | 31

Savannah Riverfront

Forsyth Park — Savannah

Enjoying the outdoors is what Jacksonville is all about, which is why it is also one of the top biking destinations in Florida. Discover the wonders of outdoor Jacksonville via the Jacksonville-Baldwin trail. The Imeson Road trailhead is the closest to Jacksonville and is a good place to start your journey. Midway along the 15-mile trail is the Camp Milton Historic Preserve. This historic site was once home to the largest encampment of Confederate troops during the Civil War with over 8,000 troops. It includes a re-creation of a late 19th century homestead, a large historical reenactment field, an existing historic railroad line, a replica bridge, an arboretum and extensive boardwalks.

Have more than a day or two of freedom?

Then branch out a little farther with these long-weekender destinations.

SAVANNAH, GA. 202 miles from Gainesville Get out of town, or in this case, get out of the state.

Take a trip into the culture and history of the South.

Selected as one of the top 10 arts destinations for small cities by AmericanStyle magazine, Savannah itself is a

32 | Summer 2011

Carriage Tours — Savannah

work of art. General James Edward Oglethorpe founded it in 1733 as a series of neighborhoods centered around 24 squares. One of the most famous today is Chippewa Square at the center of the downtown historic district.

It is the center of Savannah’s nightlife and entertainment, and is also known for the famous park bench scenes from Forrest Gump. The square also holds the Savannah Theatre, which is the oldest theatre in the country that still produces shows nightly.

Savannah is home to the nation’s largest Historic District, and it is there visitors can discover and explore City Market. It is a mixed-use project that has established itself as a destination for entertainment, dining, art and retail in downtown Savannah. Again playing into Savannah’s rich artistic culture, City Market has an art center that occupies about 19,000 square feet of space.

For a breath of fresh air, head over to Forsyth Park within 2.5 miles of the Historic District. Or stroll down River Street, which is located exactly where it says it is.

River Street is filled with shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs. Watch the ships roll in and listen to street musicians as the sun sets over the water.

For a more structured look at Savannah take advantage of one of the twenty tour companies in the

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Aerial view of Sanibel Island

Canoeing — Sanibel/Captiva city with Civil War, ghost, movie and even foodie tours (which focuses on famous or delish eateries). You can see Savannah on foot or by bike, horse-drawn carriage, trolley, bus or boat.

And no trip to Savannah would be complete without an excursion to Tybee Island. Built in 1733, the Tybee Island Lighthouse is a beacon for incoming travelers.

It was once the tallest lighthouse, and now it is known for being the most intact lighthouse in the country.

Tybee Island is also home to the Fort Pulaski National Monument. The fort took 18 years to build, and was used by forces on both sides of the Civil War. The fort stands like a castle with a moat complete with alligators and a drawbridge.

Relax on the beach a bit before heading to the Crab Shack for a low country boil. The restaurant, which began as a little fishing camp, serves up fresh seafood year round. The boat hoist still remains from the original camp so customers can see the catches the local fishermen bring back. The Crab Shack is a place “where the elite eat in their bare feet.”

34 | Summer 2011

Fishing Pier —Sanibel/Captiva

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLAND, FLA. 280 miles from Gainesville Sanibel Island and Captiva Island offer more than just beautiful waters. The snorkeling, fishing and boating are a big draw. But visitors shouldn’t discount the other natural wonders beyond the beach. The islands offer shopping, dining and music as well as museums and other attractions. The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, named for two pioneer island families, showcases why Sanibel has the reputation of being one of the world’s top shelling destinations. It is the most comprehensive museum in the country devoted exclusively to shells.

The Barrier Island Group for the Arts, or BIG Arts, showcases performances and educational programs about dance, visual arts, classical jazz and popular music.

Learn about early Sanibel at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. The historical buildings are dedicated to the pioneer families of Sanibel and Captiva, and they are furnished with items from the early 1900s.

Stroll past a pioneer garden, antique Model T and a replica of a packinghouse with farm equipment.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 35

The islands are also home to a 6,300-acre wildlife refuge. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is home to 238 species of birds, more than 50 types of reptiles and 32 different kinds of mammals.

Visitors enjoy bird watching, bike and walking paths, canoe trails and a scenic drive filled with sea grape, wax and salt myrtles, red mangrove and other native plants.

Old Town Sanibel was historically the center of the island’s activity.

Today visitors meander through village shops, inns and restaurants. Take the 2.5-mile walking or biking tour to “yesteryear” produced by the Sanibel Historical Society.

And be sure to visit to the Chapel by the Sea. It was originally built in 1901 as a schoolhouse that doubled as a church on Sundays. The adjacent cemetery holds the graves of many early settlers.

The conservation center gives visitors insight into the island’s ecosystems through trails, an observation tower and a butterfly exhibit. Inside discover a marine-life touch tank, an alligator jawbone and other exhibits about the island. Stroll through the nature shop, bookstore and native plant nursery before heading out on a guided trail tour or shoreline discovery walk s

Whether you’re looking for a weekend excursion or simply a day-trip get-away, our area offers plenty.

Daycation RESOURCES

RAINBOW SPRINGS

SAVANNAH

Rainbow Springs State Park 352-465-8555

City Market Savannahcitymarket.com

ORLANDO CRESCENT BEACH South Beach Grill Southbeachgrill.net

ST AUGUSTINE Anastasia State Recreation Park 904-461-2033 City Walks staugustinecitywalks.com 904-540-3476 St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum www.piratesoul.com Sunset Grille sunsetgrillea1a.com

CEDAR KEY Cedar Key Historical Museum cedarkeymuseum.org Cedar Key Museum State Park floridastateparks.org/ cedarkeymuseum

Harry P. Leu Gardens leugardens.org Hot Air Balloon Rides bobsballoons.com Scenic Boat Tours scenicboattours.com Airboat tours bcairboats.com

JACKSONVILLE Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Jacksonvillezoo.org 904-757-4463 Little Talbot Island floridastateparks.org/ littletalbotisland The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens cummer.org 904-356-6857 Camp Milton Historic Preserve 904-630-3516 Campmilton.com

The Savannah Theatre Savannahtheatre.com Fort Pulaski National Monument www.nps.gov/fopu Old Savannah Tours Oldsavannahtours.com The Crab Shack thecrabshack.com

CAPTIVA/SANIBEL Sanibel Historical Museum and Village 239-472-4648 Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum 239-395-2233 J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge 239-472-1100 Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation www.sccf.org

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COLUMN >> CRYSTAL HENRY

Naked Salsa I think that just about every married guy or gal has a moment or two of longing for those carefree single days he or she once knew. hile our single friends are out sowing their wild oats, the only oats we get are served lukewarm and semi-crusted over in a bowl with raisins. The humdrum normalcy of day-to-day married life can seem a little mundane in comparison to the non-stop party our single friends seem to have. It’s hard not to long for a wild night out.

I was recently working on a story. All I had to do was ask 10 random men about their idea of a perfect date.

As usual, my procrastination left me grasping at straws the night before my story was due. So, I called one of my husband’s friends hoping he’d be up for a quick interview, and he agreed. I asked where I could meet him, and since it was St. Patrick’s Day he was at a bar downtown.

After I got my toddler settled into bed, I threw my hair up in a ponytail, wiped the chewed-up pasta off my t-shirt, traded my pajama pants for a pair of ripped but comfy jeans, and I headed to the bar alone for the first time in seven years.

Now the last time I was in a bar I had no trouble finding plenty of gentlemen who were willing to give me attention. I’m not saying I was the pick of the litter, but one of these fellas did marry me.

But seven years later, here’s a fun-fact: Just as the scent of a human will scare wild game away from the hunter, the stench of marriage and children will repel male bar patrons from a woman. You see, the last time I went sauntering through a bar, I was a 19-year-old blonde-haired blue-eyed college co-ed. I dolled myself up with make-up, smelly-good sprays and tight jeans.

Back then the tight jeans said, “Come hither gentlemen.” Now they just look like they’re crying, “Help me!

I’m being zipped against my will!”

W

The interview from my friend Dan was the only one given willingly that night. I spent the next five hours fighting my way through a jungle of testosterone. And I discovered two different species of guys inhabiting the bar scene that night.

The first were the Marrieds. Because this particular breed has been in captivity for so long, they were the most tame and easiest to approach. However, they were the least comfortable to talk to about dating because it is a concept they can hardly remember.

They’re used to traveling in pairs, so they were often in the company of another human. That person was either their wife, or their single buddy. The men who were with their wives were willing to talk, and by that I mean their wives forced them to repeat exactly what they were told. The perfect date ideas from this group were all eloquently delivered by their chaperoning spouse. The Marrieds who were savoring a few hours of freedom with their single pals were not as willing to give interviews. I was informed that they were afraid to be quoted without prior approval from their wives, and that they couldn’t quite remember what a date was supposed to be. Isn’t that a shriveled fruit that was supposed to “keep them regular?”

After only two successful interviews from the Marrieds, I moved on to the other species, the Singles.

The Singles were the scarier of the two breeds. The Singles I encountered were on high alert for any female activity in the surrounding area. They were ravenous for female attention, but also cautious not to engage with any of the Marrieds or the dreaded Single Mothers that might be lurking in the bar. I approached these boys with caution because I realized my wedding

I was stepping into the lion’s den wearing meat cologne.

40 | Summer 2011

ring was still sitting by the sink. (Stupid dishes.) I was stepping into the lion’s den wearing meat cologne.

The meat cologne threw them off the scent of my married/breeder status. And while I have to admit I was flattered when the first one offered to buy me a drink, I desperately wanted to get this story done and get back to my pajama pants. So I decided that my opening line should inform them that I was there on business. However, “Hi I’m working on a story about dating,” was apparently the oldest pick-up line in the book. Some were desperate enough to ignore my breeder scent, but others took one look at my disheveled appearance and knew I had the start of a litter at home. One guy even told me, “Look you’re pretty enough to get my attention, but I don’t know if it’s enough to get the interview.” Ouch.

It took me hours to find just seven guys who weren’t either trying to get me in bed, or repulsed when they learned I was married with an offspring. At 1:30 a.m. I’d managed to find seven guys who were either desperate enough for female attention, decent enough to see that I was truly working on a story, or just drunk enough to give me an interview. It was exhausting.

That night, as I wearily snuggled up to my very own Married boy, I had a new appreciation for my boring ol’ married status. And I have a new respect for my single girl friends who brave the dating world. It is a jungle out there. s

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>> OFF THE GRID

More Power to You Local Couple Dispels Misconceptions About Solar Power in the Home PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY JANICE C. KAPLAN he mere mention of the words “Solar-powered home” can send people into rounds of debate over the myths of solar energy. “You have to live by candlelight.” “Solar power is not cost effective or reliable.” “You need a lot of land for all of that equipment.” “What do you do when it rains?”

But as more options become available for solar power at the residential level, it becomes apparent that this clean form of

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energy can be applied practically and without extensive sacrifice to one’s way of life.

Such is the case for Wayne and Kori Irwin. The husband and wife owners of Pure Energy Solar live with their two dogs in a house that is completely off the grid — that is, they are not connected to Gainesville Regional Utilities and receive no bill for their electricity or water usage. Their eight-kilowatt solar-power system generates all of the electricity

Wayne and Kori Irwin on the front steps of their solar-powered home. The couple live entirely off of the grid, using the sun’s energy to power everything in their home.

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Summer 2011 | 43

A

B

The cypress and cedar are locally harvested and contain natural pest-repellant properties

A. The home’s large cupola and hexagonal shape allow for passive air circulation when windows are open, efficiently cooling the home.

needed to run appliances, heat their water and otherwise live comfortably just minutes from downtown Gainesville.

It is a home that defies all of the misconceptions of a solar-powered lifestyle, a feat accomplished with carefully planned design and a few minor changes in habit.

“Can you live with solar energy and be comfortable and not have to make the huge sacrifices that a lot of people think are involved

44 | Summer 2011

with it?” Wayne Irwin asked. “The answer is yes. Half of the battle is cutting back your consumption.

Providing your own energy is a great solution, but the two coupled together is really what needs to happen and makes it successful.”

The Irwins have achieved solar success in part by designing a home that is naturally conducive to energy savings. The threestory cypress and cedar house is hexagonal in shape and topped

with a large cupola; when the windows are opened, air circulates easily to provide passive cooling throughout. Two ductless mini split units provide air conditioning and dehumidifying, as well as heat during cold days; on winter nights the couple uses a wood-burning stove to warm the house.

The home is also filled with double-insulated low-e windows to allow for plenty of natural light, not to mention beautiful views of

C

D

B. The solar panels are mounted on the roof of a storage building adjacent to the main house.

C. Switch equipment is mounted on the walls inside, while the battery bank sits just outside. The system is controlled by a simple wall unit.

D. A spiral staircase connects all three floors of the house. The landing at the second story lounge and office is shown in this photo; the remaining stairs lead up to the master bedroom on the third floor.

the Irwins’ 45-acre property on the eastern edge of Gainesville.

“The primary objective of the house is to have the outdoor feel in the environment that we’re in, yet have climate control and comfort,” he explained. “The idea of the house being hexagonal with many windows is to be able to see the outside while being inside.

Then we incorporated into that as many passive-energy designs as we possibly could.”

The Irwins have also made minor modifications to how they use their power. Heavy energy-consuming activities like running the dishwasher and doing laundry are done during the daytime while the system is gathering energy. Otherwise the couple cooks and entertains as any other family would.

“The system and battery bank are big enough that we can pretty much do whatever we want,” Kori Irwin said. “But we definitely pay

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attention to what we are using, how much power we are drawing and should we do this [activity] right now.”

The Irwins have embraced the concept of sustainability in many additional ways. The cypress and cedar used in construction is locally harvested and contains natural pest-repellant properties. The hot-water system circulates under the stone tile on the ground floor, providing radiant heat in the winter.

Summer 2011 | 45

Outside, a large greenhouse contains fruits and vegetables grown year-round, while two chickens and eight African guinea fowl provide eggs as well as natural fertilizer and pest control for the garden and surrounding area. Collection systems for both rainwater and gray water (non-toilet wastewater, such as from the shower or sinks) provide irrigation for the grounds. A golf cart powered entirely by a solar panel on its roof is the quickest mode of transportation around the property.

Wayne Irwin’s interest in solar power began in third

like this was something that I wanted to use my skills and resources for.”

The couple founded Pure Energy Solar in 2005 but began building the home years before. The initial structure was started in 2003 with nothing more than a roof, floors and some framework, and served as a nature observatory. A few years later they decided to make it their home.

Their initial plan was to simply have a power pole with limited solar capacity, but the changes required (including removal of a large swath of trees) added up to about $10,000. Realizing that the money could instead go to a solar system they were already planning, the Irwins decided to plan for a more robust and complete solution.

Their first system included 600 watts of panels and golf-cart batteries, enough to power a majority of the construction efforts on the house itself. Once they moved in, they upgraded their system over time until it achieved its current capacity. Their needs were actually met at 5 kilowatts, but the Irwins wanted enough power to compensate for rainy days and guests in the home. Said Wayne, “The system is set so that we can have complete darkness for at least 24-48 hours, and

While it made sense for the Irwins to keep their home off the grid, solar-powered homes can provide benefits when connected to GRU as well. grade when, in science class, he built a small solarpowered car. When they took the car to the outdoor basketball court and set it in full sunlight, the tiny vehicle shot across the pavement. From that moment he was hooked.

After moving to Gainesville in the late 1980s and meeting Kori, Wayne became an engineer but still had a passion for the possibilities of solar.

“I had always intended to put solar in my home, and it just seemed to be a natural path [for my career]. I felt

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then one full day of sunshine and the battery bank is fully charged again.”

Despite the ample power generated at the Irwins’ home, the components of their solar system do not take up much space or require much modification. The solar panels are mounted on a small storage building near their house, but they could just as easily fit on the roof of the average single family home in Gainesville.

The switches are mounted on an interior wall of the building while the batteries sit right outside, taking up no more than about 30 square feet of space, and a simple wall unit in the house controls the settings. The electrical system itself is 240 volts AC with a standard breaker panel as in most conventional homes.

While it made sense for the Irwins to keep their home off the grid, solar-powered homes can provide benefits when connected to GRU as well.

“You can grid-tie and provide power to yourself and reduce your need to buy energy,” Wayne said. “When the system is full it could sell that excess energy to the grid, minimizing the need for the utility to produce fossil-fuel energy.”

The Irwins believe that solar technology is not a far-flung theory. They see it as a way of life that people can adopt at a variety of levels, whether it is to power one or two appliances or an entire home. It is another step in making solar technology a more understood and accepted way to generate clean energy. s

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ADVERTISEMENT

Home of the Brave The Veterans Administration’s Aid & Attendance Benefit helps veterans and spouses enjoy their golden years at The Atrium

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here are more than 11 million veterans or surviving spouses over the age of 65 living in the United States today.

After serving their country with valor and sacrifice, these heroes deserve to live their golden years with a distinct sense of comfort and freedom.

At The Atrium in Gainesville, they can find exactly that when they take advantage of the Veterans Administration’s Aid & Attendance Benefit.

“Wartime-serving veterans gave to their country,” said Prem Paul Murrhee, Director of Sales and Marketing for The Atrium.

“Now it’s time for their country to give back to them.”

The Aid & Attendance Benefit is a generous federal program that provides financial aid to veterans or surviving spouses who require services for any number of daily activities. These benefits are $1,632 per month for a veteran, $1,055 per month for a deceased veteran’s surviving spouse, or $1,945 per month for a veteran and spouse together.

These amounts could cover as much as 75% of the all-inclusive monthly rent at The Atrium.

“It’s a great program from the federal government,” said Murrhee. “This benefit is for

48 | Summer 2011

wartime-serving veterans and it’s very inclusive. I’ve been moving people in on this program for three years and have helped more than 100 people apply for Aid and Attendance benefits.

(The government) really wants to help people get the benefits that they deserve.”

Eligibility for the benefit is based on three criteria. You must be a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran with 90 consecutive days of active duty and one day of service during a declared war. A doctor must indicate your need for aid and attendance (because The Atrium provides meal service, transportation and 24-hour attendance, the benefit can be used for rent). There are also financial qualifications to be met, with each application considered on a case-by-case basis. Local veterans advocates can help you evaluate your financial situation to see if you qualify, and The Atrium hosts a veterans benefit talk at noon on the last Thursday of every month.

The approval process takes anywhere from four to nine months, but that does not have to delay your move. The Atrium will defer the portion of your rent that would be covered by the

benefit until the Aid & Attendance funds are granted.

“In the past people have had to dip into their savings to pay their rent, and then they would be paid back,” said Murrhee.

“We will defer the rent by the benefit amount, so they’re effectively receiving benefits immediately. When they get that retroactive payment, they just pay it back. We don’t charge interest, and there are no extra fees for the service.”

Nestled in a quiet yet central location in Gainesville, The Atrium is an all-inclusive retirement community of 240 residents enjoying their golden years in style. Its namesake five-story atrium has a glass ceiling, baby grand pianos and plenty of trees and foliage.

Apartment residences range in size from 400-1600 square feet and all include a full kitchen.

Monthly rent includes all utilities except personal phone service, three meals a day, weekly housecleaning, activities and entertainment, transportation, 24/7 live-in management and more. A post office, a branch of Wise’s Pharmacy and a hair salon are just a few of the other conveniences provided all under one roof.

Freedom of choice is a central theme at The Atrium.

Leases are month to month so residents aren’t bound to longterm contracts and there are no entrance fees. And because the facility is not owned by a medical company (as many such facilities are), residents can choose the amount of medical care they want and the company that provides it. If you move into an apartment and later your abilities change (for example, you need more regular in-home care), you don’t have to move apartments; that’s your home, and you can stay as long as you want.”

As a property of the Holiday

Retirement Corporation, The Atrium shares visiting privileges with over 300 Holiday locations across the US and Canada.

All Holiday properties include a fully furnished guest suite that is just like a hotel suite.

Normally rented at a nominal fee for guests visiting property residents, these suites are also perfect for traveling Atrium residents to stay in at no charge.

Modern retired veterans are more active than ever, and The Atrium strives to match it with unprecedented freedom and flexibility. Said Murrhee, “You’re in complete control every step of the way.”

Call Prem Paul Murrhee today to find out how soon you may qualify for Aid & Attendance all with no longer-term commitment and no entrance fees ever.

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>> SPLAT-AT-TAT

A Shot of Fun Experience the Exhilarating Adrenaline Rush of Paintball Competition

BY MATTHEW BEATON hey whiz by at 280 feet per second ... spheres of paint and pain. Men, women and children hunker down in bunkers — barricades made from oversized plastic tubing or inflatable canvas — hiding from the enemy and their rounds, protecting themselves, avoiding the welts that mock a bee sting.

Why do they do it?

They, the paintballers, speak of a rush.

“It’s an adrenaline sport,” said Ross Evans, 21, a Tallahassee resident, who has played for eight years. “It gets you pumped. It’s pretty intense.”

Evans, along with some 15 other

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52 | Summer 2011

guys, was practicing for a tournament on a Sunday afternoon in late April. The players, all male, gave off a locker room vibe. The jokes and laughter evinced a closeness among them, as with many who engage in athletic competition.

Evans, for his part, had returned to play with some friends.

Another, Heath Brown, 20, said he had been playing for four years — a novice compared to many on the field — and that there was a nice camaraderie, a bond, amongst the guys.

“The whole game is enjoyable,” Brown said. “It’s painful but not unbearable.”

Pain, though, is usually only endured when a greater pleasure is received.

PHOTOS COURTESY UF PAINTBALL CLUB

The UF team gathers at one end of the paintball field in anticipation of play.

TOP: Dave Bauerle, president of the UF Paintball Club, fires during tournament play at the 2011 NCPA National Championship, held in Lakeland.

The game, Brown said, was a lot of fun and “something I love to do,” as he readied his equipment for the ensuing battle. Changing his shirt, numerous small bruises revealed how frequently he plays.

“I got these last week,” he said.

Prior to play, the preparation ritual is an involved one. They check their guns, making sure everything is in working order. Hoppers, which store the paintball rounds, are filled.

To start, players huddle together on opposite ends of the field, and then, after a five-count, the round begins.

More advanced players, and those willing to pay for extra equipment, wear vests in which several long cylindrical tubes, called pods, filled with additional paintballs for midround reloading.

Also, they fill their guns’ tanks with either compressed air or CO2, both of which are used to propel the paintballs. All the while, stories are traded, talent is impugned and all around jocularity ensues.

But then they play.

That afternoon, the group held several five versus five games on First Strike’s X-ball field. Cut out into flat gullet, it is about as large as a football field. Inflatable canvas bunkers litter its surface, offering protection from the flying pellets.

In its center, a giant inflatable X, giving the field its name, demarcates the two sides.

To start, players huddle together

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on opposite ends of the field, and then, after a five-count, the round begins. As if a war zone had just erupted, they race for protection, pinning their bodies behind bunkers. They fire so many rounds at such a high speed that they are hardly visible. The pop, pop, pop of the guns is occasionally interrupted by a ball breaking against someone’s clothes — only one hit and a player is out of the round.

Summer 2011 | 53

PHOTO COURTESY UF PAINTBALL CLUB

Team photo: (from left) The UF paintball team: John Lowery, Jeff Fielder, Dave Bauerle, Mrugesh Shukla, Thomas LaRoue, Drew Haggard, James Sutton, Andrew Gallagher, Tom Irby, Whittaker Bullard.

Such a cacophony! Directions are shouted, positions are made known, accusations of whether or not someone was shot are vociferated.

The adrenaline seems to saturate the air as tensions run high.

Then, suddenly, the game ends.

Most take less than five minutes — for speedball. They head off to reload and recount the round.

Randy Blitch has owned First Strike for a little over five years; his interest in paintball began after his son played at a birthday party.

“Me and him started playing together, and it just went from there,” he said.

The economy has not helped business in recent years, he said, but attendance has picked up this year. Paintball, though, is not his sole source of income. He works as a swimming pool contractor during the week and runs the field on weekends.

“I guess you could call it a hobby business,” he said.

It boasts 12 playing fields on 27 acres. Turning into the complex, in Newberry, it feels like driving into a Berenstain Bears book: “Down a sunny dirt road...”

His fields accommodate those who wish to play speedball or woodsball, the two primary forms

54 | Summer 2011

of paintball. Speedball games take very little time, and the guns fire with great rapidity. Games are played at close range where your enemy is usually in sight.

Woodsball, on the other hand, requires a great expanse. Patience is often the name of the game, and the element of surprise can be a player’s greatest advantage.

“On my largest field I can put 60 or 70 people on it easy,” Blitch said.

According to paintball websites, the first-ever game played was a form of woodsball, held in New Hampshire on June 27, 1981.

At the field, Blitch rents equipment and said at any given time he will have 100 sets of equipment ready to be loaned out, which is useful because sometimes 70 people will use his equipment in a weekend.

There are also multiple types of activities associated with paintball.

Blitch breaks players down into three groups: recreational, scenario and tournament. The recreational ones come out a few times a year, rent some equipment and have a good time.

“The business is built around the recreational player, the guy who plays once or twice a year,” Blitch said.

The scenario player participates

in games that rely on a narrative and a theme and last only a day or two. They attract large numbers people; as many as 500, Blitch said, have attended his events.

But he usually averages 220-240 participants.

In January, he ran one modeled after Halo, the video game.

“Teams traveled from all over the state to participate in it,” he said. A general headed up each side — the humans and the aliens. A script dictated various missions for each team to accomplish, which prompted all sorts of alien-versus-human battles throughout the event.

Meanwhile, tournaments are played primarily using the speedball format, with the X-ball field being the current craze. The University of Florida Paintball Club recently participated in the National Collegiate Paintball Association’s College National Championship tournament April 15-17.

Held at Central Florida Paintball in Lakeland, the Gators played in the X-ball division, where they finished seventh out of 18 teams.

“The fact that we have a young/ inexperienced group of guys, comparatively to the teams that we were beating, I was pretty happy with the outcome,” said Dave Bauerle,

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The closest field to Gainesville is Rockycreek Paintball Park, about 15 minutes from the heart of town. president of the UF Paintball Club.

They beat Kennesaw State, the University of Maryland and Ohio University, but suffered a loss to West Point in the preliminary stage and were knocked out by the University of Connecticut in the quarterfinals.

Cal State Long Beach won the championship inside their division.

As the club’s president, Bauerle organized practices, ordered supplies, and took responsibility for arranging their one or two tournaments each semester.

To give an idea of how many shots are fired in a paintball tournament, Bauerle ordered 60 cases of paintballs, at 2,000 rounds a case, for the championship games — 120,000 rounds. And yet he still

was not sure that would be enough.

A food resource economics major who graduated this spring, Bauerle came on as president in fall 2010. The club itself, said former president Tom Irby, is 8-years-old.

In their style of tournament play, Bauerle said, they engage in two 16-minute halves. Games are won by knocking out everyone on the opposing team or taking a flag from the middle of the field into the enemy’s territory and hanging it on their starter box.

In X-ball, teams of five square off against each other, but, Bauerle said, it requires eight to 12 players because only a two-minute rest break is given between games, and they play for a full 32 minutes.

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As far as the guns go, Bauerle said, they use semi-automatics, which are capable of ramping, meaning when the trigger is pulled three times it “ramps,” shooting a specific number of balls per second.

Twelve and a half, he said, is the standard ramping output allowed in tournaments, but some guns can fire as many as 30 balls per second.

The guns, or markers as they are often called, can be quite expensive, too. Bauerle fires a DM 11 made by Dye, which, he said, retailed for $1,200, but he purchased it used. The most recent versions of the gun can run as much as $1,400 on the Internet.

“Most tournament grade guns range from around $800 to a little over $1,000,” he said.

Currently, the club has about 20-25 members, but only about 8-10 are active. When he and the other team members play, whether in practice or tournaments, they wear elbow and knee padding, because of the frequent need to slide and dive.

“That’s really going to be a lot more painful than the actual paintballs,” Bauerle said. “Unless someone drills you in the top of the head,” he said, “it’s not too bad.”

They practice weekly, sometimes at First Strike, but because they want “more regulation layouts, we usually end up driving the two hours to Lakeland, every Sunday,” he said. “It’s a good amount of time and money just for travel.”

Money, though, is not something they have in surplus. During the spring semester, they received no funds from the student government or the university directly.

Bauerle said the more competitive schools, particularly those in the north, receive “anywhere from 15 to, I’ve heard, $40,000 a semester for paint and tournaments.”

Because of financial restrictions, they practice for the majority of the semester, playing in one to two tournaments. Now, since he graduated, the reins are to be passed on.

Although his replacement has yet

to be named, he is quite sure the team would survive into the future.

“We have a couple of our key players that are going to grad school or are still in undergrad that will be returning, so we definitely have the capability to field a team after this year,” he said. “I guess we just have to see who wants to take the initiative and be able to organize things from now on.”

The closest field to Gainesville is Rockycreek Paintball Park on Archer Road, about 15 minutes from the heart of town. Jim Masciale has owned the business since 1994, and his 15 acres hold six fields — two woodsball, two hyperball and two airball. Hyperball fields, which are also present at First Strike, have bunkers made from large, corrugated plastic pipe, while airball refers to the inflatable canvas barricades used for speedball.

“Almost everything we have to make the fields is recycled,” Masciale said. Rockycreek uses a lot of old television props; so in his

fields, one could see aging white columns or faux pines trees.

Those who come out to play vary in age, he said, from 10-year-olds all the way to those around 50 or a little older.

“By the industry’s numbers,” Masciale said, “they say that from 10-17 is the biggest portion of the pie.” But, in Gainesville, things may be a little different. Masciale said about 90 percent of the student clubs at the University of Florida come out to play, too.

As far as fees go, the two fields’ prices are similar. About $35 will outfit a beginner with all the necessary equipment for 30 minutes to an hour of play.

Also, safety is of the utmost importance to Masciale — as it is to any paintball field owner. He is very strict in making sure masks are worn and gun barrels are plugged at the appropriate times.

“As soon as we drop our guard and let safety become an issue, we’ll be out of business,” he said. s

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>> RULE #1: CARDIO

Humans vs. Zombies All Across Campus, A War is Raging Between the Living and the Undead

BY MALLORY SEARCY o you have any infected bites from bloodthirsty, humanoid creatures? Do you find your eyes glazing over, slowly turning to a milky-puce blank stare? Do you have unusual cravings to feast on the brains of your loved ones? If the answer is “no” to the above questions, and if you would prefer to keep it that way, you had better arm yourself with some Nerf guns and sock grenades.

The zombie apocalypse is here.

D

The Humans vs. Zombies game is a phenomenon wildly popular on college campuses nationwide. A weeklong war comparable to organized tag games such as “manhunt,” “assassin” and “capture the flag,” this game features competition between human and zombie teams. Zombies tag humans to spread the “infection” from one randomly chosen original zombie to the entire population of players. Humans defend themselves with Nerf guns and socks.

Members of each team advertise their player status with

bandannas. Humans wear bandannas tied around the arm, but a human who has been “bitten” by a zombie switches the bandanna to his or her head.

Human players must constantly remain on the lookout for zombies, even when simply walking to class in the morning. In order to protect themselves, they can organize into protection groups known as squads.

The size and popularity of the game has skyrocketed since its February 2010 arrival at the University of Florida, said Jesse

PHOTO BY MALLORY SEARCY

Kevin Freedman, a hardened apocolypse survivor who doubles as game moderator, hopes his gas mask will protect him from the zombie virus particles that lurk in the air. He eases the constant tension of impending undead attacks through his artwork, which can be seen across his arms, and he totes two hardy weapons for extra protection.

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Summer Sum Su Sum mm merr 2011 20111 | 59 9

PHOTO BY MALLORY SEARCY

Hordes of infected zombies swarm the resistance as John Fuller, center, and his survivalist allies lead the defesnse.

Schmitt, president and founder of Gators Humans vs. Zombies.

The first game began at midnight on February 24, 2010 and ended on February 28.

Approximately 500 players participated. The second game, which took place in April 2010, had 1,185 registered members, Schmitt said.

“It really took off,” he said. “I was expecting it to be 100 guys in a field shooting each other with Nerf guns, but it took a life of its own beyond anything I ever expected.”

John Schmitt, a game veteran who immerses himself in zombie-fighter character with his camouflage outfits, found himself riveted after reading about the game’s 2010 birth in the independently run student newspaper.

“I read an article in the Alligator

60 | Summer 2011

of the first game and I was sold,” he said. “I’ve always liked games like this as a kid; manhunt, capture the flag and the like. Any excuse to whip out the camo, really.”

Max Brickel joined the humanzombie war after seeing the first game’s biohazard-themed advertisements in the spring of 2010.

During the second game, Brickel earned veteran status by making a legendary number of 40 tags as a zombie, he said.

Brickel enjoys the game because it continues all week and allows him to play anywhere.

“They give you missions to do,” Brickel said. “But you’re playing the game any time you’re on campus, even when you’re just going to class.”

Missions consist of organized game-related events that usually

occur at night. Examples of players’ mission objectives include holding down bases on the human team, transporting virus cures to mad scientists, and escaping safely to the laboratory with their humanity still intact.

For example, the moderators of the game double as mad scientist characters, whose secret experiments consist of finding a cure for the zombie virus. The scientists’ hard work results in “cure cards,” which humans successful in the missions can use to save themselves in case of a zombie attack. In the last game, which took place over a weeklong period this March, the zombie virus took over some people who did not display symptoms, resulting in zombies disguised as humans, which resulted in Nerf

gun “friendly fire” and levels of paranoia that led to disaster control by armed, uniformed government officials (student moderators serving as non-taggable characters).

The zombie Armageddon stirs up attention even among those not at risk for developing the zombie virus.

Many Gators who are not active players still know about Gators Humans vs. Zombies through wordof-mouth from family and friends.

Susannah Rawlings, a sophomore, has never played, but knows all about the game from her older sister, a then-senior at UF. Dianne Perret, another sophomore, has never participated in the game, but she heard about it from friends who have.

“It seems pretty fun, but pretty random at the same time because everyone’s running around on campus,” she said.

Schmitt founded the game at UF after his friend sent him a link describing its popularity on another campus.

“I thought it looked like a lot of fun,” Schmitt said, “and I looked around for about an hour before I realized that we didn’t have it here.

So I figured that if I wanted to play, I had to start it myself.”

Originally, Schmitt faced some difficulty getting the game approved because participants use fake guns, which some people feared could appear threatening to an unfamiliar non-player. He showed the University of Florida Police Department the bright-yellow Nerf guns that players would use, and they approved the Nerf gun use on the condition that the toy guns cannot resemble real guns.

However, the most recent game this March suffered initial complications that led to the game being temporarily shut down, only to be resumed on its second day.

Someone in Criser Hall, the student financial advising office, mistook a concealed Nerf gun for a concealed actual gun and called the police.

Players and the UFPD, who hold a friendly and cooperative stance on the game, sorted out the issue.

Despite such ruffles, managing the game reaps fun rewards for the students involved.

Initially, the job of president consisted of paperwork and

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setting up the game. Once this was completed, the presidency became a matter of recruiting and acting as a referee, Schmitt said.

While moderating the game, Schmitt grew to love the creativity and ingenuity of the players.

“I’ve given up trying to predict them,” he said. “They come up with stuff I couldn’t think of in a million years.”

Kathryn Milstein, treasurer of Gators Humans vs. Zombies, helped her classmate Jesse Schmitt found the organization after hearing stories about the game from her boyfriend, who played for several years at another university.

Milstein recommends the game as an opportunity for students to network and gain study buddies, apartment neighbors and friends.

“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors alike,” Milstein said. “You’re guaranteed to meet at least one person if not a thousand, and then there’s all the fun you’ll have.”

“It’s even more fun than it looks,” Schmitt said. “Give it a try; you’re going to have fun.” s

Summer 2011 | 61

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>> SEVENTH GENERATION

Steve Everett Get Outside. Stay Outside.

No Excuses.

BY KAYLA ROBINS s he finishes a lecture on the differences between certain animal paws, his inner core shines through. He ignores many teachers’ practice of lecturing without paying attention to students, making sure the class is always tuned in.

“Folks, say ‘uh-huh,’” he tells the class — his signature answer-andresponse technique.

“Uh-huh,” everyone responds.

He throws a soccer ball back and forth while talking about anything but class as they wait for the bell to ring. He is clad in an olive-green, short-sleeved safari shift, khakis and boots; his gray hair stands out against his tan skin.

A

64 | Summer 2011

A noise emits from the pocket of his pants.

“My pants are ringing. Oh my God!” he yelps, his eyes widening.

His students describe him as a toasted marshmallow; his hardened attitude and goldenbrown skin mask his true soft and warm personality.

This marshmallow is Steve Everett, a wetlands ecologist and teacher at Eastside High School.

He holds a B.S. in Zoology, an M.Ed in Science Education and a M.S. in Environmental Engineering Sciences-Wetlands Ecology. In 2002, the University of Florida Society of Research Scientists named him Teacher of the Year.

And he knows children are the future.

Everett has been molding the future every day for 34 years by teaching environmental sciences, biology and ecology. He has spent the last 17 of those years with 10th- to 12th-graders in the International Baccalaureate Program at Eastside High School.

Animal posters of beavers and dogs, and topography maps of Florida and the world cover almost every inch of the classroom.

Quotes about nature or scientific laws abound. “Don’t forget your place in nature and nature’s place in you.” Pictures of past students kissing raccoons or holding fish surround the words, “Get outside.

No excuses. Stay outside.”

“Humans aren’t the only species on earth. We just act that way,” reads

PHOTOS BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

Steve Everett with his Eastside High School students work on a solar energy project last winter. Everett says he would love to conduct his classes in a grassy field every day and he strives to get his students outside as much as he can.

“Teaching outside gives everything relevance,” he says, “because it’s hard to teach about water pollution without showing them dirty springs and rivers and creeks.”

Growing up in the swamps of Florida and playing outside was his only recreation. He learned how to wrangle an alligator at a young age. a sign on the wall next to a desk so covered with pictures and posters of animals that it could be a shrine.

Most of the images are beavers.

“I am an animal freak,” Everett confesses. “Period.”

In the same matter-of-fact tone, he describes beavers more as his favorite child rather than animal.

“They’re industrious. They build new wetlands,” he says. “Without them, wetlands wouldn’t exist. You can see from satellite images where they have been and established themselves.”

He has even raised a pair of beavers, Kai and Willow, and used to visit them every weekend.

It becomes clear what led to his devotion to the outdoors and the animals he is so fond of. Everett has been outside since he was able to crawl. Growing up in the swamps of Florida and playing outside was his only recreation. He learned how to wrangle an alligator at a young age.

“Reptiles were my hobby when I was 8,” he says.

He attributes his time outside to his knowledge of the fragile ecosystem that human growth and urban development has diminished, and he became compelled by a need to

help save and protect it.

“I wanted to change the future, and kids are the future,” he explains.

His active pursuit of protecting the future was shaped, he says, by being part of the Kennedy generation. The question of what he can do for his country remains ingrained in his mind, and teaching allows him to pass down to the next generation his love for the natural world and everything in it.

While he describes daily obstacles of being forced to teach to a test instead of purely the subject, he retains a unique and widely respected method of teaching, say the students, parents and teachers.

Everett sermonizes the importance of children being outside. He gives as much hands-on experience out of the classroom as the school will allow.

“Teaching outside gives everything relevance,” he says, “because it’s hard to teach about water pollution without showing them dirty springs and rivers and creeks. Kids need to be taught like humans, not little robots.”

A knock on the door interrupts him. A teenage girl pokes her head

into the room in an attempt to impose herself as little as possible.

“Do you have any recycling?” she mutters.

“Recycle me,” Everett snaps, before he reveals his humorous side and explains in an overly polite voice that he was never given a recycling box. “I would like one though,” he says.

He continues, saying he would love to conduct class in a grassy field every day. Sometimes, however, he must retreat to the narrow confines of the classroom setting.

He keeps his students engaged by talking to them instead of lecturing to them; by drawing pictures of the animal paws instead of explaining them. His students pay attention when he talks about algae blooms that are invading Florida waters, but he says his words do not register to the average student.

If he deeply reaches one or two a year, he has done a good job.

His efforts go far beyond the classroom, too. He had three mentors who acted as surrogate parents in his childhood and taught him skills — such as handling alligators — and he does whatever he can when a student needs his guidance or assistance.

“I’ve lent lunch money to students. I’ve gone to weddings.

I’ve gone to funerals. I’ve written recommendations,” he says. “I still take one student out to lunch, and he’s been graduated for four years.”

His teaching skills and personal efforts have both have been noticed

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Eli Luetke, an 11th-grader in Everett’s IB Environmental Systems, describes him as a mentor and a man who knows everything. by more than just his students.

Jeff Charbonnet, the principal at Eastside, sits in his office dressed in an orange button-down shirt and orange tie — one of the school colors. He describes Everett as an enormous asset to Eastside.

“He teaches kids who have never played in a ditch, or seen a gopher tortoise, the difference between types of trees and insects,” Charbonnet says.

Charbonnet’s son, Joe, is one of the people Everett has reached.

Everett wore a tie to his Eagle Scout ceremony. Joe told Everett he had never seen him wear a tie before.

“Well, wearing a tie is a sign of respect,” Joe said Everett replied.

While there is no tie around his neck during school, Everett still shows respect by inviting conversation and not talking down to his students. He sits with one knee bent and a leg resting on a chair in front of him and leans his head in his hand when he talks about school regulations and the dying environment, both of which affect him every day.

The list of his stress-inducers goes on: Pointless lesson formatting takes time away from teaching the

raw material. Florida springs are dying. Crystal River is so polluted you cannot see the bottom. Algae are so thick in Troy Spring you need a light to see in the water.

Fertilizers from treated lawns are dumped directly into the water that flows to the aquifer. He tries to explain all of this to his students, who he hopes can help.

He talks of these issues with a parable about the seventh generation, which is the core of his teaching philosophy. Each Native American tribe used to have a tribal council that would make important decisions for the community. There was always a council member who represented future generations, so their way of life could be preserved.

Today, he says, no one cares about this seventh generation. One generation will look at a spring, see the water and think it is beautiful.

Because they do not take notice to the future, they do not protect the spring. The next generation will look at the same spring and see something different, but because they did not pay attention to the past, the baseline of their knowledge is shifted and they will never know how much the spring has

changed. They will see the water and think it is beautiful.

When he is not giving students modern examples of this shifting baseline — such as teaching them about Wes Skiles and why three large posters of work by this filmmaker and conservationist will soon hang in the classroom — Everett spends his time volunteering for a variety of environmental projects and organizations. His activities include building a water system in a Gainesville Dog Park, volunteering for Adopt-a-River Program, and commuting to a wildlife rehab center in southern Georgia.

With teaching, volunteering and helping students outside of class, a pertinent question is how he finds time for everything.

In order to fit everything in, he says he is not home much.

The attachment and time that is involved in a relationship does not work with his full schedule. He has tried it, he says, and learned he has more free time to do everything than would a family person.

But in no way does this mean he is alone.

Eli Luetke, an 11th-grader in Everett’s IB Environmental Systems, describes him as a mentor and a man who knows everything. If anyone has a question about anything, Everett will answer it. And if he does not know the answer, he will find it.

Everett has piqued Luetke’s interest in environmental studies to the

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point that he wants to go to college on the West Coast, possibly in environmental law. Sporting an Eastside T-shirt, he sits at a picnic table under the blazing sun with one leg on either side of the bench, leaning in to the conversation.

The student sitting next to him, Frazier Springfield, credits Everett more directly. He is also in 11th grade and is the president of the Outdoor Adventure Club, which Everett supervises.

Because of Everett, Springfield wants to continue his environmental studies in college.

“If all of my classes were like his, I would have straight A’s,” he says. “I don’t want to let him down, so I do my part.”

Another of Everett’s students, Daniel Lambert, class of 2006, went on to UF to pursue a degree in Environmental Science. He graduated in December and is now pursuing landscape architecture because the field is looking for people who are more environmentally conscious.

“Mr. Everett definitely helped shape that for me,” Lambert says. “Before taking his class, I didn’t have a whole lot of interest in science.”

Lambert enjoyed the class so much that when the format changed he convinced the faculty to let him take it again.

“His teaching style is completely different than any other teacher’s style,” Lambert says. “He didn’t teach to a test. He would teach whatever students wanted to know.”

Lambert says they would take breaks from lectures by going outside to stretch their legs and ‘walk’ Everett’s pet snakes.

In college, Lambert says he was studying things he had already learned in Everett’s class.

“My very last class in my senior year just seemed like it was Mr. Everett’s class again, just not as good,” he says.

For his final ecology course at UF, Lambert had a group project to find an isolated marsh to compare and contrast with one they had learned about in class. They had trouble finding one in Gainesville. While looking around the dog park on Archer Road Lambert spotted Everett.

“He got this quirky little smile on his face, like ‘Oh, my God. It’s you,’” Lambert says.

Everett told them where to find an isolated marsh.

They could not find it, but Everett called to check on them and then went to help. Afterward, he took them to High Springs to show them better marshes. And a sinkhole. And he treated them to Sonny’s for lunch.

“And he would do that for a student who hasn’t had him for five years,” Lambert adds.

Although Everett always talks about retiring, each year everyone hopes he will stay around for another.

He has taught for 34 years, but the paperwork, regulations and shifting baseline continue to amass.

All he can do at the end of the day is hope one toasted marshmallow can convince a few children of the future to look out for the seventh generation. s

70 | Summer 2011

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>> CAN YOU DIG IT?

Newnans Lake

Discovery The World’s Largest Find of Ancient Watercraft Right Here in Gainesville

BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON t was late spring in the year 2000. People remember it being a sunny day, which in Florida is normal for that time of the year. Gainesville had not seen much rain in the past six months, and the drought was having an effect on Newnans Lake. The water levels were lowering, and the shoreline expanding.

The dwindling waters uncovered a large amount of wood stuck in the lake’s sandy bed. Reportedly, some people even began sawing at the logs.

Steve Everett and his Eastside High School class were on a field trip to the lake, honing their recently acquired excavating skills. They had already discovered an old saw mill

I

72 | Summer 2011

when one of his students pointed out a shape in the lakebed, and said to Everett, “I think that’s a canoe.”

What they saw was not a long canoe sitting on top of the sand, waiting to be found, but instead a canoe-like shape of bubbles forming on the mucky surface of the lakebed. The students started digging around the bubbles and ultimately unearthed a canoe. It was soon revealed that the “logs” were ancient dugout canoes, hand carved by Native Americans, dating from 500 to 5,000 years ago.

The student was right.

Everett said he could not take credit for the discovery, as there were various groups, including people who lived on the lake, discovering the canoes at about the

same time. However, he and his group of students participated in the recovery work. Prior to any of the discoveries at Newnans Lake, Everett had invited a local archeologist into his classroom to instruct his students about archeology and the proper methods of excavating.

The discovery was the world’s largest find of ancient watercraft, states the press release by the Florida Museum of Natural History.

Experts began arriving in teams to flag and sample some of the canoes for radiocarbon dating and wood identification.

Donna Ruhl, archeologist with the University of Florida, said that ethically, removing the canoes from the lake would have been a bad decision. The wooden canoes were

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

The canoe depicted here is a preserved canoe that was discovered in Florahome, Florida. The canoes from Newnans Lake were left in the ground because of their fragile condition. Donna Ruhl, archeologist with the University of Florida, said that before removing any valuable artifact, such as the canoe from Florahome, one has to think about the long-term conservation.

In Florida, only one tank exists for the preservation of objects the size of a canoe. It is in Tallahassee, Florida.

extremely spongy from being in the lake for so long. They were also in bad condition because of constantly being exposed to the elements as water levels receded throughout the years. In the end, all of the canoes were reburied and left at the lake.

In addition, there is only one tank with the capacity to preserve the canoes after they are removed.

That tank is in Tallahassee at the Bureau of Archeological Research, and it was occupied by another canoe at the time.

Ruhl said canoe discoveries are usually isolated finds, uncovered because of droughts or development. To systematically hunt for these dugout canoes would require a lot of money and time. Currently, there is no one jumping for the job.

The dugout canoes reveal that the use of water for travel was probably more prevalent than previously assumed, Ruhl said. These canoes indicate that people had the ability to fell a tree and create a canoe that allowed them to go places and

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expand local horizons, she said.

And the tradition is long-lived, Ruhl said. The oldest canoe found at Newnans Lake was 5,000 years old. But that is not the oldest canoe ever found in Florida. The oldest canoes discovered in the Sunshine State date to 6,000 years ago, and were found at DeLeon Springs in Volusia County.

Most of the canoes were crafted from pine. However, some were found to be cypress. Cypress, Ruhl said, was thought to be the wood

Summer 2011 | 73

most used by the Seminoles. But at Newnans Lake, pine was an easily accessible resource. It also contains resin that would cause the wood to burn easily during canoe construction.

Ruhl said that the use of pine was probably “part of a total understanding of the environment that they were in...”

“Newnans Lake was added to

the National Register of Historic Places in March 2001 because of the significance of the archaeological find,” states the Florida Museum of Natural History’s press release about the exhibit. “The site was added as Lake Pithlachoco, the lake’s original name.”

And now, roughly ten years later, the discovery at Newnans Lake has inspired the creation of an exhibit

at the Florida Museum of Natural History called “Dugout Canoes: Padding Through the Americas.”

The free exhibit opened November 13, 2010 and will stay in Gainesville for three years. Then it will be rented to museums across the country, said Leaann Bright, communications specialist at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

It is the only bilingual exhibit at the

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Native American Indians constructed their dugout canoes by felling a tree and hollowing out the inside. They hollowed the log by first using a controlled fire and then chipping away at the burnt pieces with a knife or adze. The leftover chippings are an indicator for early Native American life. Archeologist may not find an intact canoe, but they may find the remnants.

museum, she said, and allows for visitors to switch over to Spanish at the touch of a button.

The exhibit starts with the Newnans Lake discovery and progresses to how dugout canoes are used in today’s societies throughout the Americas. The exhibit is handson, allowing visitors to listen to a phone recording from state archeologist Ryan Wheeler as he discusses the discovery at Newnans Lake, flip through the archeological records from the Newnans Lake discovery or peer into a microscope at various wood samples. Visitors can also sit inside a dugout canoe from Panama.

While there are no dugout canoes from the Newnans Lake discovery at the exhibit, there is a preserved canoe from Florahome, Florida, that visitors can view.

The exhibit took years of developing the concept, collecting artifacts and researching the idea, Bright said.

Various artifacts are displayed, such as whelk shells, wooden canoe paddles and children’s toy canoes. These artifacts, and many more on display, help researchers understand the history behind canoes when they cannot find actually intact canoes, Bright said.

Ruhl said another strong indicator for canoes being used in an area is leftover wood carvings from where a log had been hollowed out during construction.

A modern canoe is on display, as well as images depicting how canoes are still used today. Native Americans have renovated the design or added new technology,

such as the boat motor, to modernize the styles.

In today’s Native American societies, there has been a cultural revival to bring the past into the future. Canoe construction and the ideas behind it exist in many different cultures.

“Throughout the Americas, it’s still a primary form of transportation,” Bright said.

Children, in addition to sitting inside a modern canoe, can design their own paddle with stencils and crayons. The area displays the various types of paddles and how each one would be used in a specific environment.

“We hope the public really enjoys this exhibit, especially since we live in Florida,” Bright said. “Boats and canoes are all around.” s

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Summer 2011 | 75

A DVE RTI S E M E N T

When “Speechless” is Something More “Without memory we vanish; we cease to exist; our past is wiped out – and yet we pay little attention to it, except when it fails us. We do precious little to exercise it, to nurture it, to build it, to protect it.” - MARK TWAIN

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s with the rest of the body, the brain needs exercise to work to its full potential. But many choose to ignore inconvenient lapses of memory, instead referring to words on the “tip of my tongue,” withdrawing from social situations to hide it, or even getting frustrated and blaming others for it.

Mederi Caretenders of Gainesville approaches dementia and memory loss with an emphasis on the speech-cognition connection. “Part of working your communication skills is keeping your brain alive,” said speech-language pathologist Elisa Neale, MA, CCC, SLP. “Oftentimes with people with mild dementia, the first thing they have difficulty with is word finding. I set up a memory fitness program to slow the process of cognitive decline.”

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), speechlanguage pathologists play a primary role in the diagnosis and treatment of cognitivecommunication disorders, including those associated with dementia. Caretenders is the only area home care agency with a full-time SLP on staff, providing a vital tool in the company’s mission of senior independence.

There are many things seniors can do 76 | Summer 2011

themselves to keep their minds limber, including the perennial favorite – crossword puzzles. “We store words in our brain by categories,” said Neale. “For example, first you think of ice cream, then you think of the flavor, and then that thought might bring you to how, where or when you like to eat ice cream.” The progression of thoughts involved in solving crossword puzzles makes the brain process more to find words. Sudoku, card games such as bridge and even watching “Wheel of Fortune” or “Jeopardy!” also engage the mind in cognitive exercise.

When in-home care is being utilized, SLPS play a key role. Neale encourages word-finding tasks by asking the client questions like, “Let’s think of things you ate yesterday,” followed by, “How would you make that food?” Through such tasks she simulates logical thought progression with the client to engage the brain.

Not every speechless moment is a sign of cognitive decline; in fact, conditions such as hearing loss and depression can mimic dementia. But when memory loss interferes with the tasks and enjoyment of everyday life, seeking help is the best way to preserve a full and independent life.

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Summer 2011 | 77

COLUMN >> BRIAN “KRASH” KRUGER

Gate Crashing On Deck: Big Boat, Fastlane, Hollowbody Hellraisers

much sticking to rhythm guitar for the set. Perhaps the easiest comparison would be to early R.E.M., but with decipherable vocals. Big Boat DATE: FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2011 through the inevitable first-band were a bit more eclectic though, with VENUE: EIGHT SECONDS stage mix problems and fixes. one song featuring a country beat Despite Eight Seconds’ more usual and bassline, and another featurreetings, live music aficionastatus as a dance club, it has a ing a surprise hardcore-ish break dos! This issue finds us back spacious band stage along its entire (complete with the guitar switching at the only live music venue in western wall, as well as a very from a “clean” sound to heavily town disguised as a cow, :08, also extensive lighting rig for the stage. distorted, and the vocals going from known as Eight Seconds, downtown After the first band struck the sung to somewhat shouty, before on University Avenue. The spotstage, Big Boat were up. Big Boat switching back). They also included ted cowhide exterior a fairly straightforward Given that the preceding band had paint job and venue cover of Roger Miller’s name are both rodeo chestnut (and one of my featured a 50-something dad and references, in that most dad’s favorite songs when his 17-year-old daughter, the evening nights Eight Seconds is I was but a lad) “King of proved that age does not necessarily a country and western the Road” — sometimes correspond to if or how well one rocks. also known by its opening disco, playing the latest country records (CDs? refrain of “Trailer for sale mp3s?) to a host of Gainesville’s consists of three fellers on the basic or rent...”— with which I gleefully boot-scooters. rock trio instruments of drums, sang along from my vantage on a Like this column’s last visit to bass and guitar, with the lead stool back near the soundboard.

Eight Seconds, however, this was singer being the guitarist. Made up The guitarist eschewed any of the a special occasion and featuring of longtime Gainesville musicians more iconic rock instruments (an SG live music, specifically a showcase from Naomi’s Hair, Super Sugar and did sit in reserve on a stand) in favor for the annual UF College of Law’s Unconditioned Response (names of a Washburn (actually an American Music Law Seminar. Being a UF you might recall from the ‘90s), Big brand with a long history) solidbody, Law alumnus, as well as both a Boat were not the 20-somethings played through a Line 6 (one of musician and attorney, I’ve been more commonly encountered doing the more popular modern “digital involved with the seminar’s original rock music, but given that modeling” amps) combo. The bassist showcases for the last couple years, the preceding band had featured a played a G&L (a company formed by with various of my bands playing 50-something dad and his 17-yearLeo Fender) bass into a red Avatar in the showcases that precede or old daughter, the evening proved cab, which, despite the unusual color immediately follow the Saturday that age (in either direction) does choice, gave a nice traditional bass seminar over at the law school. not necessarily correspond to if or bottom to the trio.

This year was no different, with how well one rocks.

Next were Fastlane, a band with a band I’m in opening the Friday And Big Boat rocked just fine, twice the complement of its prefestivities at Eight Seconds. My thank you. The trio format meant decessor, more in the “show band” daughter made her rock band debut that there really weren’t any guitar tradition (complete with band as we helped the soundman work solos, with the lead singer pretty signage on the front of the drum

G

78 | Summer 2011

riser), doing funk and soul covers.

The band consisted of two gal singers, and guys on drums, bass (a Fender Jaguar), keys and guitar (a little-seen Framus, a German brand). After hashing out more sound mix problems (caused no doubt from the changeover from a trio to a sextet, which involved adding keyboards and a wireless mic to the mix), Fastlane presented a long, very tight set. Included therein were “Lady Marmlade,” “Kiss,” “I Wish,” “Tell Me Something Good,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” and “Billy Jean,” the latter complete with the pyrotechnical guitar solo.

Closing were the Hollowbody Hellraisers, a quartet expert in the raucous brand of early rock now known as rockabilly (the word “hollowbody” in the name refers to the guitars and bass traditionally played, as opposed to more “modern” solidbody instruments).

The instrumentation was typical for such a quartet, a large acoustic “doghouse” bass providing the clickety-clack rhythm (and the bassist providing backing vocals) in time with the spare drum kit, with the lead singer playing rhythm on either his acoustic or a Gretsch White Falcon, and lead guitar on another, silver-sparkletop, Gretsch. Playing their original songs, the Hellraisers more than lived up to their name.

Now, go see some bands. s

FAST LANE

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PHOTOS BY BRIAN KRUGER

BIG BOAT

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Summer 2011 | 79

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Visit thes e fantastic restauran ts!

R E S T A U R A N T

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Going Out to Eat

CALL 352-372-5468 TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HIGHLIGHTING YOUR RESTAURANT IN OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

Adam’s Rib Co. 211 NW 13th Street, Gainesville, Florida 32609 Monday - Saturday: 7am to 9pm — Sunday 9am to 9pm

BARBECUE – Looking for the best BBQ in Gainesville? Then look no further than Adam’s Rib Company. Adam’s Rib is North Florida’s Premier Barbecue restaurant, serving North Florida’s finest beef brisket, pulled pork, bbq spare ribs and slow smoked chicken and turkey. Choose from over 20 sauces – from honey sweet to habanero hot – and everything in between. Don’t forget dessert, like their scrumptious “Mom’s Banana Pudding” and their famous Peach Cobbler. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Adam’s can cater any event locally. Come see why Adam’s is putting the Ribs back in BBQ!

352-373-8882 www.AdamsRibCo.com

Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

Bagel Bakery 4113 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville (In the Millhoper Plaza) Mon-Fri: 6:30am to 5pm • Saturday 7:30am to 4pm • Sunday: 8am to 4pm

The Bagel Bakery, located in the Millhopper Shopping Center next to Publix, is the perfect neighborhood bakery and eatery. From freshly made bagels to scrumptious breakfast and lunch sandwiches, the friendly staff is always eager to help in any way. Menu options include bagels, bagel sandwiches, salads, melts, flavored cream cheeses, fair trade coffee roasted on-site and coffee drinks, smoothies, fruit bowls/cups, danish, huge muffins, cookies, brownies and more! A popular choice for either breakfast or lunch, why not have them cater your next office or staff meeting? Locally owned and operated, the Bagel Bakery is perfect way to start your day!

352-384-9110 82 | Summer 2011

Make sure to visit our new location (co-branded with TCBY) at 3102 SW 34th Street. It’s just south of Archer Road next to Crispers!

Calico Jack’s (CJ’s) 3501 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL (In the Creekside Mall) OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR – Located in the heart of Gainesville, CJ’s is still serving the freshest seafood in town. For almost 30 years, thousands of Gainesville residents have enjoyed what Calico Jack’s has to offer – something for everyone. As the area’s finest oyster bar, Calico Jack’s serves over 7000 oysters per week. Known for their great wings, ice cold beer and full service bar, it’s the perfect place to meet friends and family or tailgate before a Gator game on one of the largest patio’s in town. Open 7 days a week with happy hour everyday, join them each Thursday for 40 cent Oysters.

352-371-1675 www.CalicoJacks.net

Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

Dave’s New York Deli 14145 W Newberry Road, Jonesville FL 32669 Open Mon-Sat for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Closed Sundays

“Best Reuben, Best Pastrami, Best Philly, Best Salads!” That’s what customers are saying about Dave’s New York Deli. Located just 4.5 miles west of the Oaks Mall on Newberry Road in Jonesville, Dave’s NY Deli is quickly establishing itself as “The Real Deal” when it comes to NY deli food. Owner Dave Anders says he knew from the start that he wanted to serve only the best, so he has all of his pastrami, corned beef, and cheesecake shipped in from New York’s Carnegie Deli. Dave’s offers Nathan’s hotdogs, real NY kettle-boiled bagels, nova, knishes, cannolis, authentic Philly cheesesteaks, Cubans, subs, kids menu, and more.

352-333-0291 www.DavesNYDeli.com

Flying Biscuit Café 4150 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 Located in the Fresh Market Center

BREAKFAST – The Flying Biscuit is out to reinvent breakfast in Gainesville! Maybe you’ve tried their soon-to-be-famous creamy, dreamy grits or their “moon dusted” breakfast potatoes, but did you know you can have them at anytime? With a unique open menu, all the items that appear are available throughout the day. With a variety of healthy and hearty dishes, The Flying Biscuit caters to a variety of tastes. With options ranging from the Smoked Salmon Scramble, the Bacon Cheddar Chicken Sandwich or the Tofu and Tater Salad, there’s something for everyone.

352-373-9500 Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

www.flyingbiscuit.com www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 83

Francesca’s Trattoria 4410 NW 25th Place, Gainesville, FL 32606 Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri: 11am-11pm Sat: 12pm-11pm Sun: 11am-9pm

ITALIAN – Francesca’s honors itself on being a special place with a special taste. Family owned and operated, this Northern Italian restaurant offers almost everything in house being made from scratch daily. With a great atmosphere, delightfully priced lunch specials, and Live Jazz Sundays this restaurant is a total gem.

Mention this listing in Our Town magazine to enjoy $5.00 off any order of $20.00 or more. Offer may not be combined with any other discount or offer. Limit one redemption per table. Offer ends April 30, 2011.

352-378-7152 www.francescastrattoria.com

Located behind SunState Federal Credit Union on 43rd Street.

Find out more on Facebook!

Gator Q 222 NE First Avenue, High Springs, FL 32643 Monday — Saturday: 11:30am - 8:00pm

BARBECUE – Gator Q is a neighborhood BBQ joint using local black jack oak soaked in apple cider for smoking pork, turkey, St. Louis ribs, split chickens, and chicken wings, with the occasional beef brisket thrown in for good measure.

Brette and Bob ‘Yogi’ Liebler serve made from scratch collards with attitude, bold BBQ beans, gourmet Mac-n-cheese, and a dill and ranch potato salad that will get in your craw and leave you craving more. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Check them out online at www.gatorq.com or follow them on Facebook. Ask your friends — the food really is that good!

386-454-9823 www.gatorq.com

Find out more on Facebook!

Northwest Grille 5115 Northwest 39th Ave., Gainesville 32606 Mon thru Thu: 11am to 10pm • Fri: 11am to 11pm • Sat & Sun: 10am to 10pm

Since 1996, Chef Chris Fennell has been providing the finest quality fish and seafood entrees in a friendly atmosphere. Now the new owner, Chris’ menu is more than your average seafood restaurant — whether it’s our fresh, local seafood and fish, hand-crafted sauces or specialty desserts, we have something to please your palate.

Meat lovers will enjoy our hand-cut steaks and vegetarians will love our locally produced tempeh. All guests are given 110% customer service and treated like family. Join us each Wednesday and Saturday for $5 Martinis and brunch served each Saturday & Sunday 10 - 3.

352-376-0500 www.NWGrille.com 84 | Summer 2011

Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza New Location Opening May 2011 (Tower Square) 5757 SW 75th St. #101 — Gainesville (Hunter’s Crossing) 5200 NW 43rd St. #302 — Gainesville Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm Sunday: 11am-10pm

ITALIAN – Piesanos family friendly restaurant is proud to use only the finest ingredients available, including Grande® brand premium mozzarella, provolone & romano cheeses. Dough is made fresh daily & all pizzas are baked in our unique Granite Stone Fired Pizza Oven. Specialty pizzas, calzones, and fresh salads complete a large selection of Italian cuisine. An excellent choice for lunch, specials start at only $6.99. Their full service bar compliments any meal.

Call ahead for pick-up for those busy nights. Delivery is also available through GatorFood.com Full menu available online.

352-371-TOGO (8646) Tower Square 352-371-PIES (7437) Hunter’s Crossing www.PiesanosToGo.com

Saboré 13005 SW 1st Road, Tioga, FL 32669 (Tioga Town Center) DINNER Sunday – Thursday: 5pm - 10pm, Friday & Saturday: 5pm - 11pm LUNCH - Monday – Friday: 11am - 3pm BRUNCH - Sat & Sun: 9am - 3pm

Saboré [sa-bohr-ay] is a world-fusion restaurant featuring a variety of European, South American, Mediterranean and Asian-inspired tastes. Saboré’s namesake is from the word “sabor,” meaning “flavor.”

Executive Chef and Co-Owner William “Willy” Hernandez’s menu features mouth-watering dishes that takes guests on a trip around the world, highlighting exotic flavors and ingredients from countries such as Argentina, Japan, Greece and Italy. Be sure to try their custom plates, desserts and signature cocktails you won’t find anywhere else in Gainesville. Chef Willy joins his Gainesville-based partners from Miami, where he was heralded for his innovative culinary skills at famed establishments such as Caramelo Restaurant, Giacosa, Casa Rolandi and Café Vialetto.

Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

352-332-2727 www.saborerestaurant.com

Tasty Buddha 25 NW 16th Ave • Second location now open! 2410 NW 43rd St. Mon-Sat: 11am to 10pm • Sunday 12noon to 8pm

Enlighten Your Belly. This is our motto and we are serious about it.

We want to change the way you think about food. Food is not something you shove in your mouth to keep your stomach from growling. Food is a gift from the Earth; It is community; It is life.

Tasty Buddha, formerly known as the Buddha Belly, is about real, tasty, affordable food. With the opening of our newest location (tucked behind Garden Gate Nursery off NW 43rd Street), we offer two convenient locations! With flavors from around the world, we have a variety for everyone. From fresh, delicious burgers, curries, and fried rice, to a huge selection of beer and wine and the occasional indulgence. Come in, and let us enlighten you!

Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

www.VisitOurTowns.com

352-377-0287 (16th Ave.) 352-872-5755 (43rd St.) www.TastyBuddha.com Summer 2011 | 85

CALENDAR If you would like to have an event considered for publication in this calendar, please submit information directly. post 4400 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 | e-mail editor@towerpublications.com | fax 352-373-9178

RUN AMUCK WITH THE DUCK — FIGHT LUNG CANCER Saturday, May 14 9:00am NFRMC - DUCK POND Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation 5K walk/run to raise funds and awareness for lung cancer. Registration 8:00am. Shotgun start 9:00am. 352-333-4970

ALACHUA COUNTY SCHOOLS’ SPRING CONCERTS Tuesday, May 17 and Wednesday, May 18 6:30pm BUCHHOLZ HS AUDITORIUM Tuesday will feature High School Bands Concert and Jazz Bands. For more information contact Alex Kaminsky: 352-955-6995 or kaminsky@ buchholzband.com. On Wednesday, Kanapaha Middle School is performing. For more information, contact Rahsaan O. McNeill: mcneillro@gm.sbac.edu

RELAY FOR LIFE Friday - Saturday, May 20 - May 21 5:00pm - 12:00am SW YMCA SPORTS COMPLEX The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer,

86 | Summer 2011

remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to from 18 - 24 hours in length.

352-376-6866

MASTERS OF DISASTERS Friday, May 20 11:30am - 5:00pm HAILE PLANTATION Join the American Red Cross of North Central Florida for the Inaugural Masters of Disasters Golf Invitational. A variety of sponsorships are available. Your support will allow the Red Cross to provide help and hope throughout our community when and where it is needed most. For more information contact Amanda Harrison: 352376-4669 x14

SWEET DREAMS TOUCH A TRUCK Saturday, May 21 10:00am - 4:00pm ALACHUA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS Admission is free — wristbands available for purchase for enjoying inflatables. Among the 35+ vehicles which will be at the event are: a crane, tow truck, Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle, Blood Mobile, hearse,

city bus, school bus, ambulance, GPD patrol car, Army Hummer, Harley Davidson and bear cat. In addition, there will be lots of cool kids activities and food! A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to local charities.

352-378-0532

PANCAKE BREAKFAST Saturday, May 21 8:00am - 10:00am GATOR’S DOCKSIDE - Enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, and OJ, milk or coffee.

Proceeds go to the RSVP Advisory Council in support of seniors who volunteer in our community. For tickets or information, contact: Cindy Flowers, 352316-1310 or cindyflowers@

comfortkeepers.com

FEAST ON THE FARM PREAKNESS PARTY Saturday, May 21 4:00pm ALACHUA - REMBERT FARM - HOPE — Horses Helping People’s annual fundraising event, Feast on the Farm benefits HOPE, and this year they are adding an exciting theme to celebrate the second stop of the Triple Crown Series, The Preakness Horse Race. Take part in the excitement of horseracing, live music, dinner, unlimited cocktails, games and unique silent auction items.

352-376-6866 x118

MASTER GARDENER PLANT SALE Saturday, May 21 8:00am - 12:00pm 2800 NE 39TH AVE. This plant sale is a fundraiser for the volunteer program that provides free homeowner horticultural advice and free Florida Friendly landscape design education.

352-955-2402

4TH ANNUAL FRANK POLACK MEMORIAL BICYCLE RIDE Saturday, May 21 8:00am OCALA - Take a trip through the Heart of Horse Country and enjoy a fully SAG’d metric century ride of 80 mile, a 62 mile or a 30 mile ride benefiting Hospice of Marion County. Ride in remembrance of a loved one or just to enjoy the beautiful countryside. More than 300 cyclists are expected to participate.

All participants receive a ticket to the postride feast. Riders registered by May 12 are guaranteed a ride t-shirt, goodies from Trek, a light breakfast and a post-ride lunch, provided by Sammy’s Italian Restaurant and Pizza. Register online at www.hospiceofmarion. com or request a faxed registration form by calling 352-854-5218.

The fee is $40 ($45 after May 12). This ride

is being conducted in honor of Frank M. Polack, M.D., a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology and a passionate artist who passed away in the summer of 2007.

Palatka’s Blue Crab Festival Friday - Monday 5/27 - 5/30 Times Vary PALATKA Bumper Cars, Climbing Wall, Petting Zoo, Kids’ Train Ride, Mechanical Bull! Plus food, rides, a parade and lots of blue crabs!

Admission, parking and entertainment are free.

NEWBERRY WATERMELON FESTIVAL Saturday, May 21 Times t.b.a.

NEWBERRY - The watermelons are always provided from a local grower and given to the festival visitors for free. Some of the favorite festival activities started many years ago and still continue today. These Saturday activities include contests for watermelon eating, seed spitting, hog calling, pie/cake baking, and of course the “Big Melon.” Beauty pageants for ages 0-22 years and free concert on Saturday night of the festival. www.

www.bluecrabfestival.com

Gainesville Roller Rebels Home Bouts on 5/15; 6/18; 7/9 Times Vary SKATE STATION FUNWORKS - Competitive women’s flat track roller derby league.

Bouts against state and regional opponents are sanctioned by the WFTDA. For more information visit:

newberrywatermelonfestival.com/

GOLFING FOR OUR HEROES Sunday, May 22 8:00am - 1:00pm GVILLE COUNTRY CLUB Second Annual Charity Golf Classic benefiting the Gainesville Fisher House Foundation.

Spend the day playing golf while raising funds to support a worthwhile and local cause. Participants will also be admitted to the exciting Night in New Orleans event the preceding evening, May 21 at 5:30pm, featuring Bill Wharton, more commonly known as the “Sauce Boss.”

Dinner, beer, wine cash bar and dancing. Silent auction. Additional Night in New Orleans tickets are $50 per adult and $15 per child under 12 years old.

gainesvillerollerrebels.com

The Gainesville Fisher House Foundation is dedicated to serving veterans, military members and their families in North Florida and South Georgia.

Steve deMontmollin: 352-317-0040 or 514-9761

“PIRATES! THE MUSICAL” Thursday, May 26 8:30am J. J. FINLEY ELEM. SCHOOL Fourth Grade. For more information, contact Jenny Eckenrode at eckenrodeja@gm.sbac.edu

BIOFLORIDA’S 8TH ANNUAL CELEBRATION Thursday, May 26 11:00am - 2:00pm.

ALACHUA - The celebration will showcase more than 70 vendors. Stroll down the lanes of vendor tables, grab a bite to eat and take a bus tour of Progress Corporate Park. New this year, attendees can head inside for the Gallery of Biotech to meet some of our area’s biotech company representatives and learn about

www.VisitOurTowns.com

their products, activities and recent accomplishments.

Students are welcome.

386-462-0880

SWIM SAFER SWIM FOR LIFE! Friday, May 27 5:00pm -7:00pm MICKLE POOL - Mickle Pool opens its doors to another exciting summer season: swimming lessons, free family-fun nights, free food, drinks, music, a bounce house and other fun activities as the Department of Parks, Recreation

Summer 2011 | 87

Florida Railroad, and an array of events showcases the rich historical, cultural, and natural attractions of the heart of North Florida. Since 1995, Yulee Day had been celebrated in the City of Archer. In 2004 the festival expanded into a three-day event involving historic towns in Alachua County and its environs that owe their existence to the railroads.

Wild Music: Sounds & Songs of Life Saturday, May 28th 10am to 5pm FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY - Musical instincts run deep.

Visit the exhibition Wild Music to explore the biological origins of music.

Expand your understanding of what makes music. www.flmnh.ufl.edu

and Cultural Affairs celebrates “Andrew Mickle Appreciation Day.” Admission to the pool is free on opening day. Meet the legendary Mr. Andrew Mickle, who has long been a fixture in the east Gainesville community. He will be at the event to meet and greet the hundreds of citizens whose lives he has touched by teaching them to swim over the past 50 years.

For more information contact Jeff Moffitt at 352-334-5067, or visit

www.cityofgainesvilleparks.org.

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY Monday, May 30 10:00am FOREST MEADOWS CEMETERY-EAST - The ceremony will be conducted near the Military Garden of Honor, and wreaths dedicated to each branch of the military will be placed in front of the veterans’ memorial dedicated

by Forest Meadows.

The Buchholz High School Band will play a special taps during the dedication known as “echo taps.” A BBQ follows this event.

A TRIBUTE TO FALLEN HEROES

FEMINIST OPEN MIC

Saturday, May 28 7:00pm

Tuesday, May 31 7:30pm - 9:00pm

300 SW SECOND AVE. The Gainesville Civic Chorus, conducted

by Dr. Will Kesling, proudly presents their fifth annual Spirit of America concert, the Spirit of America VA Tribute to Fallen Heroes. 352-377-6577. gcchorus.org

WILD IRIS BOOKS - Safe space where individuals can celebrate, challenge and express their artistic personas.

Hosted by Gainesville’s own poet and activist Johnny Rocket. All poets, musicians, and other artist types are encouraged to attend.

352-375-7477

88 | Summer 2011

www.yuleerailroaddays.org

JUNGLE BOOK Friday, June 3 5:30pm P.K. YOUNGE - The jungle is jumpin’ with jazz in this exciting Disney classic! Millhopper Montessori Elementary/ Middle School takes you on a journey through Rudyard Kipling’s adventures in the jungles of India. For more information contact the Drama Department: 352-375-6773

RWVA APPLESEED RIFLE MARKSMANSHIP & HERITAGE CLINIC Sat. - Sun., June 4 - 5 8:30am - 5:00pm 1610 NW 65TH PLACE Range fees for this event: $15/person/ day, under 21 exempt, Active-Duty Military exempt (must show current ID). Please be sure to read your confirmation email, it will direct you to links on how to prepare for this event.

352-376-8806.

www.gainesvilletargetrange.com

YULEE RAILROAD DAYS Saturday, June 4 9:00am ARCHER - All day entertainment at the Archer Depot downtown. Live entertainment, Patriotic Parade, Maddox Foundry Open House and limited tours, cannon blasts at the Civil War re-enactors’ camp, flag ceremony in honor of D-Day and Gospel Sing at the historic Bethlehem Presbyterian Church.

The linear festival follows the route of the historic cross-state

WORLD OCEAN DAY CELEBRATION June 4 and 5 9:00am - 2:00pm SFC TEACHING ZOO - A look at how we can protect our oceans without ever leaving home. With this in mind, the zoo has set up displays and discussions about what we can do to help. There will be children’s crafts and activities like being a sea turtle researcher, where the child will discover the sea turtle’s nest, and then log the number of eggs found.

Santa Fe students will give demonstrations on how zookeepers work with and train animals, and how water is a vital part of their interactions.

Unlike the usual guided tours, zookeepers will be stationed at the exhibits so that visitors can wander the zoo at their leisure and still have access to detailed information about the animals.

Adults: $5. Children: $4.

SF students, staff and children under 4 are free. 352-395-5601

www.sfcollege.edu/zoo/

READING IS MAGIC LIBRARY PROGRAM Tuesday, June 7 9:00am 3145 NW 43RD ST. - Real horses greeting children inside a library is always a magical experience. Gentle

Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses will bring their awardwinning literacy program “Reading is Magic” to many local libraries again this summer with new books, new surprises and beautiful horses.

352-226-9009 www.horse-

therapy.org

CARILLON RECITAL Sunday, June 12 3:00pm CENTURY TOWER - The UF Carillon Studio presents a recital at Century Tower on the University of Florida campus. Programs will be available on the south side of the tower.

Bring blankets and/or lawn chairs. Free and open to the public.

352-273-3181

FAMILY DAY: PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JERRY UELSMANN

start, food and ice

Saturday, June 18 1:00pm - 4:00pm

prizes, all-day Pool

HARN MUSEUM OF ART Take a family friendly tour of “The Mind’s Eye, 50 Years of Photography” by Jerry Uelsmann and discover a world of imagination!

Then visitors of all ages can explore their own imagination by creating dream worlds in collage. 352-392-9826

Contest with “DJ

cream, activities and games, music and dancing, raffles and Pass, Hula-Hoop Dance Shivella,” Chip-Timed Event with Accurate Course, amazing event shirts, finisher medals to ALL Participants, official event photographer. $35.

352-637-2475.

www.gainesvillekidstri.com

www.harn.ufl.edu

GAINESVILLE KIDS TRIATHLON AT CITIZENS FIELD Sunday, June 19 7:30am - Noon

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS CONFERENCE Friday, July 1 8:00am - 5:00pm O’CONNELL CENTER -

CITIZENS FIELD - This event has a lot of great activities for kids of all ages and will include: pptional water-slide

Public welcome to attend. Outside food & drink will be allowed.

352-392-5500

The Mind’s Eye 50 Years of Photography

by Jerry Uelsmann June 14 - September 11

JUNE 17 6-8:30 PM

Become a member at the door & join us for a pARTy celebrating the work of this local & internationally known artist

JUNE 18 1-4 PM

Family Day featuring an exhibition tour & art activity using photography

FREE ADMISSION

h

H A R N images: Jerry Uelsmann, (left) Untitled (Pigeon Hill, Bloomington, Indiana), 1958–59 (right) Untitled, 1982, Collection of the artist, © Jerry Uelsmann

U N I V E R S I T Y

www.VisitOurTowns.com

The exhibition is organized by the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts by PEM Curator of Photography, Phillip Prodger and made possible locally by Michael and Donna Singer, PPI, Prudential Trend Realty and TV20, with additional support from the Harn Program Endowment, the 20th Anniversary Fund, anonymous friends and the Exhibition Circle.

www.harn.ufl.edu 352.392.9826

M U S E U M O F

O F

A R T

F L O R I D A

Summer 2011 | 89

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT SUMMIT

Wine Tasting & Social

Friday, July 15 8:30am

Sunday, June 26th 4pm to 7pm EMBERS WOOD GRILL - Discover your new favorite wine, spend time with friends, and help support our public schools. Benefiting the Alachua County Public Schools Foundation, “A Thirst for Learning” will feature 30 different wines and appetizers from Embers Wood Grill. There will be a silent auction and a chance drawing for two tickets to the Blue Man Group and a one-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes, Orlando. 352-955-7003

entries ranging from floats to fire trucks to politicians. After the parade downtown the crowd heads over to the Williston Horseman’s Park for the festivities put on by the city and the Chamber of Commerce.

There are plenty of free activities for children as well as food and entertainment.

At nightfall the sky lights up with the much-anticipated fireworks extravaganza. $2 parking donation for cars. Admission and rides are free.

Additional information for parade: call Chris at 352-528-3060.

Horseman’s Park: call Mary at 352-528-5552.

MICANOPY 4TH OF JULY PARADE Saturday, July 2 10:00am HISTORIC MICANOPY Fish fry, parade and fireworks. Fish Fry starts at 10, parade starts at 10:30, fireworks at dusk. $10 for the fish fry — parade and fireworks are free. www.

micanopychamber.com/events.html

WILLISTON’S INDEPENDENCE DAY Sunday, July 3 5:00pm - 10:00pm HORSEMAN’S PARK Parade, festival and a fireworks display to top off the evening. The parade usually includes over 100 different

www.willistonfl.com

Lentz House of Time, LLC

SWISS TRAINED CERTIFIED WATCH MAKERS

Specialists in the repair of: • Watches • Clocks 20% • Cuckoo Clocks OFF Howard Mi lle • Music Boxes • Grandfater Clockss

Mechanica r l Clocks

(352) 378-9323 712 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville FL Visit us online: www.lentzhouse.com

IF IT TICKS, WE CAN FIX IT.

90 | Summer 2011

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION Monday, July 4 3:00pm - 10:00pm

BEST WESTERN GATEWAY GRAND - Times are tough. Are you prepared to survive and thrive in these challenging economic times? How can you possibly think about success when so many are struggling just to get by? Shanon Nelson, the author of “Get Over Your B.S. — Change Your Belief System and Transform Your Life,” has assembled a powerful slate of speakers for the Economic Empowerment Summit.

352-331-3336

CARILLON RECITAL

ALACHUA - HAL BRADY RECREATION COMPLEX The City of Alachua has dubbed its celebration “The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America.” The annual event draws over 20,000 people to Alachua and has great economic impact on area businesses. There

Sunday, July 17 3:00pm CENTURY TOWER - Amy Johansen, University Organist and Carillonist at the University of Sydney, presents a carillon recital.

Programs will be available on the south side of the tower. Bring lawn chairs and/or blankets. 352-392-3463

are dozens of activities for the kids, including a petting zoo, bounce houses and water slides. Fireworks begin at 9:30. www.cityofalachua.com

SECOND DECREE REIKI CERTIFICATION Saturday, July 23 9:00am to 5:00pm

Renaissance Jewelers 4 STEP

1. Diamond purchase. Let Robby be your diamond consultant. 40 years of experience in the industry!

WEDDING

2. Pick a mounting. Thousands to choose from!

PROGRAM

3. Custom-made wedding jewelry.

4. Gifts for brides, bridesmaids, grooms, in-laws.

Westgate Regency Plaza • 3435 W. University Avenue 352-335-7188 www.renaissancejewelers.com

315 NE 10 ST. - Reiki Master Shihan Terry Rogers will teach the Second Degree of Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki to all who have been certified in the First degree. A vegetarian lunch will be served. This is a one-day workshop. A $25 registration fee is required at least one week in advance. Make checks out to Charles Rogers. 352-283-0538

RECURRING EVENTS FRANKENSTEIN: PENETRATING THE SECRETS OF NATURE May 10 - June 17 Times vary UF HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER - The exhibit explores Mary Shelley’s life and times, film adaptations of the story, and the

Frankenstein myth’s impact on modern discussions of biomedical advances and ethics. A lecture and film series accompanies the exhibit. 352-273-8403

ZUMBA CLASSES WITH CRISTIANE MACHADO Mondays & Thursdays 10:00am - 11:00am 6450 SW ARCHER RD. The newest ‘craze’ in fitness, burn up to 1000 calories as you have fun! Move to hypnotic and tantalizing moves.

Price: $7; $35 for 5 classes; $60 for 10 classes. 352-281-6584

bird bingo at 6:30pm.

Regular bingo at 7pm. $15 at the door includes all early bird & regular games. Food and beverages available for purchase.

CORVETTE CLUB First Tues. each month 7:00pm 4600 SW 41ST BLVD. Monthly meetings, breakfasts, dinners, car trips and fun. More information available at www.flvetteset.freeyellow.com 352-373-6865

HOGTOWN HEELERS CLOGGING Every Tuesday 6:30pm - 9:00pm

RAINBOW BINGO First Tues. each month 6:30pm 3131 NW 13TH ST. - Fun, Cash, Prizes! Doors open at 6pm. Early

WESTSIDE PARK Clogging each Tuesday night for fun and exercise. All ages and skill levels welcome.

352-256-3742

FRUIT TREE & PLANT SALE Second Wednesday of each month 4:00pm - 7:00pm BO DIDDLEY DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY PLAZA - The Edible Plant Project’s spring sale, at the Union Street Farmers Market.

An eclectic selection of edible plants, fruit trees and seeds will be available. This a great time to plant: warm season vegetables, greens, sugarcane.

SPEED-DATING Third Wednesday of each month 9:00pm APPLEBEES - Tired of meeting the same people in the same places, spending lots of money dating? Well, try something new. Speeddating is a low-stress way to meet more people and have more fun.

352-335-0150

Enter the Pollinator Photography Contest!

Capture your best picture of a pollinator and win cash and other prizes. Winning photos will be announced during the sixth annual ButterflyFest, Oct. 22-23.

Two entry categories: Adult (18 and up) • Junior (10 - 17)

Entries will be accepted between Aug. 22 and Sept. 9. For more information and to obtain an entry form, visit www.flmnh.ufl.edu/butterflyfest or call 352-846-2000.

UF Cultural Plaza Q SW 34th Street & Hull Road 352-846-2000 Q www.flmnh.ufl.edu Mon.- Sat. 10 am - 5 pm Q Sun. 1- 5 pm Find us on Facebook.

Sponsored by:

Follow us on Twitter.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 91

Weismantel on guitar and vocals with Ricky Ravelo on acoustic bass play jazz, standards, pop and original tunes.

352-375-7381

BARNYARD BUDDIES Every Wednesday 3:00pm MORNINGSIDE NATURE CENTER - Youngsters with an adult can meet and greet animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding. Free.

352-334-5000

UNION STREET FARMERS’ MARKET Every Wednesday 4:00pm - 7:00pm BO DIDDLEY DOWNTOWN

First Thursday of each month 9:30am - Noon 1521 NW 34 ST. - The Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to preserve the heritage of quilting and related arts for individuals of North Central Florida through education, inspiration, and information. 352375-2427 www.qacdg.org

bakers, artisans, musicians, and dancers join with our intensely loyal customers in a timeless celebration of this community’s seasonal bounty.

www.unionstreetfarmersmkt.com

SHANDS CANCER HOSPITAL AT UF - 1ST FLOOR - Enjoy an hour of gentle stretching, accessible postures and breathing exercises designed to tone your body and lift your spirits. This class is suitable for patients, family, staff and members of the community. 352-7330880 www.shands.org/aim

AMRIT YOGA WITH VEDA Every Thursday 5:30pm - 6:30pm DOWNTOWN LIBRARY - 4TH FLOOR - Think you’re not flexible enough?

Learn that yoga is not just about postures.

Begin with a 15-minute

If you’re not on the green, it’s rough.

Golf Club

Every Thursday 7:00pm

Every Thursday 4:00pm

OPEN 7 DAYS 7AM-MIDNIGHT! • ALL LIGHTED

WestEnd

BEGINNERS MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

YOGA FOR ALL

COMMUNITY PLAZA - Each week local farmers,

vedalewis@aol.com

LESSONS

$

69

FOR 6 WEEKS

Every Thursday 9:00pm CIVIC MEDIA CENTER Gainesville’s longestrunning open poetry reading. All styles of poetry, acoustic music, and a cappella singing, spoken word, performance art and more! Bring your friends for a night of artistic expression.

352-373-0010 www.

civicmediacenter.org

SHANDS CANCER HOSPITAL AT UF - 1ST FLOOR - Just sitting and relaxing in our beautiful meditation room can make a difference to your day. We offer gentle guidance suitable for everyone.

352-733-0880

www.shands.org/aim

JAZZ AT LEO’S 706 Every Thursday 7:30pm - 10:pm 706 W. UNIVERSITY AVE - The Marty Liquori Jazztet with Marty on guitar, Vic Donnell on keyboards and Mr. P on drums hosts saxophonist Ben Champion, or Trumpet players Dave Edmund or Gary Langford or Vocalists and other musicians. 352-3782001 www.runjazz.com

LET’S GO DOWNTOWN ‘FREE FRIDAYS’ PLAZA SERIES Every Friday, May - September 8:00 pm - 10:00pm BO DIDDLEY DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY PLAZA - The plaza comes alive every Friday night as local talent and other cultural events are showcased under the stars. Hundreds come out to enjoy free live bands, theater groups, dance performances, Movies on the Plaza, and much more.

352-334-5064 www.

gvlculturalaffairs.org

FIND YOUR SINGING VOICE Every Friday 4:00pm - 4:30pm SHANDS CANCER HOSPITAL AT UF - 1ST FLOOR - Learn

GREEN FEES GREEN FEES GREEN FEES

$ 50 $

$

8 10 17

PLAY SATURDAY ALL THE HOLES INCLUDES OR SUNDAY YOU CAN PLAY CART RENTAL! After 5pm with purchase of full price green fee M-F. BRING RECEIPT

Coupon required. MonThurs. after 10:00am.

Offer expires 8/15/11.

Coupon required. MonThurs. after 10:00am.

Offer expires 8/15/11.

OTGV 8-15-11

EMILIANO’S CAFE - Karl

WEEKLY POETRY JAM

OTGV 8-15-11

Every Wednesday 6:30pm to 10:00pm

relaxation and then move, with evenness of mind, into skillful action for your body.

Experience all the benefits of this guided practice. Appropriate for all levels. No registration needed.

QUILTERS OF ALACHUA COUNTY DAY GUILD

OTGV 8-15-11

WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAZZ

12830 W. Newberry Rd • 3 mi. west of I-75 (exit 76 on SR 26) www.WestEndGolf.com

92 | Summer 2011

CALL FOR TEE TIMES

352-332-2721

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 93

to control your singing voice and relieve stress at the same time! Breathing and tonal exercises will help participants comfortably sing their favorite songs. High Tea will follow vocal exercises. 352-7330880 www.shands.org/aim

GAINESVILLE INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE Every Friday 8:00pm 4225 NW 34TH ST. Experienced and expanding International Folk dance group, suitable for all ages and abilities. No partners needed.

Beginners welcome.

352-359-2903

www.gifd.org

COMEDY SHOWCASE Every Friday and Saturday 7:00pm 7417 W. NEWBERRY RD A live stand-up comedy show featuring the best of local amateur and professional stand-up comedians.

352-332-2224

HOME BUYER EDUCATION SEMINAR Second Saturday of each month 8:00am - 4:30pm 1750 NW 80TH BLVD. Neighborhood Housing and Development Corporation (NHDC) is offering this seminar that teaches all the steps to making a home purchase. This class also serves the education requirement to receive down payment assistance from county and state programs. Please call the office to sign up ahead of time. Fee is 100 percent refundable

94 | Summer 2011

if you purchase a home within a year of taking the class. 352-380-9119

GAINESVILLE STREET RODS CAR SHOW Second Saturday of each month 6:00pm - 9:00pm SPRING HILL SHOPPING CENTER - 39TH AVE. - Car Show/Cruise-In hosted by the Gainesville Street Rods. Cash drawings, prizes, music and fun every month! For more information call Tim at 352-658-1477.

PAINTED TABLE OUTDOOR MARKET Second Saturday of each month 10:00am - 4:00pm 2441 NW 43RD ST. Outdoor market featuring “slow” food, antiques, jewelry and plants. 352-371-1555

FREE SAT OR ACT PRACTICE TEST Last Saturday of each month 8:30am - 12:30pm SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER - As SAT and ACT scores continue to play an important role in an applicant’s ultimate college acceptance, students are still looking for a competitive edge by achieving the highest scores possible. Sylvan is offering this free improvement service to help students and families better prepare for the test day.

352-371-6891

LIVING HISTORY DAYS Every Saturday 9:00am - 4:30pm MORNINGSIDE NATURE CENTER - History comes

to life as park staff interprets day-to-day life on an 1870s rural Florida farm. Come try a syrup-topped biscuit or cornbread baked in a wood cook stove.

352-334-3326

HAILE HOMESTEAD TOUR Every Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm 8500 SW ARCHER RD. The 6,200-square-foot homestead stands today as one of the few remaining antebellum homes in North Central Florida and is unique in the Nation for its “Talking Walls.” For a reason lost to time, the Haile family wrote on the walls of their home - more than 12,500 words in almost every room and closet. Tours every Saturday. $5 per person, children under 12 are free.

www.hailehomestead.org

HAILE VILLAGE FARMERS’ MARKET Every Saturday 8:30am - 12:00pm HAILE VILLAGE CENTER Great place to shop for locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, delicious baked good, plants, and beautiful handcrafted wares. The market has become a Saturday morning gathering place for friends and families to enjoy while meeting the farmers, bakers, and crafts people that produce the wide variety of products available.

www.hailefarmersmarket.com

FLORIDA MUSEUM DISCOVERY ROOM Every Saturday, May 28 - Aug.14 Times Vary FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY - Swim through the shallows of a coral reef, puzzle together a prairie and create creatures from Florida’s diverse ecosystems in selfguided discovery stations. Visit the hands-on Discovery Room filled with activities and take part in stories, puppets, museum exploration with Dr. Discovery and more. Come in anytime or contact the museum for scheduled program times. 352-846-2000.

www.flmnh.ufl.edu

OPEN MIC Every Saturday 7:00pm BOOK GALLERY WEST Family-friendly atmosphere. Great desserts and locally roasted Sweetwater coffee and espresso.

Non-alcoholic mixed drinks, smoothies, and more. 352-371-1234.www.

bookgallerywestgainesville.com

TANGO PRACTICA First Sunday of each month 2:00pm - 5:00pm 308-B W. UNIVERSITY AVE. One hour of lessons and help for beginners.

Then another two hours open floor to practice. Two dance floors for use. (Perfect for your basic posture, embrace, Tango walk and various steps so you will be ready for the milonga) Price: $10, $5 for students.

For more information contact Steve Littler, 352-371-6944 or

tangopavadita@gmail.com

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 95

Kid’s Corner

COMMITTED TO YOUR CHILDREN, THESE BUSINESSES INVITE YOU TO CALL THEM AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES THEY OFFER. TELL THEM YOU SAW THEM IN OUR TOWN MAGAZINE.

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96 | Summer 2011

at the Florida Museum of Natural History

May 28 - Jan. 2, 2012

Listen to the rhythm of the forests and cities and the melodies of the seas and skies. Investigate the songs of birds and whales, lay down a beat in the Jamming Room, or explore sound and song more closely, through hands-on activities.

Admission is $8 adults, $7 Fla. residents w/ ID, $5.50 ages 3-17, $6.50 ages 62+.

Wild Music is a production of the Science Museum of Minnesota, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and ASTC, with major funding from the National Science Foundation, Harman International Industries, Inc. and NEC Foundation of America.

UF Cultural Plaza Q SW 34th St. & Hull Rd. 352-846-2000 Q www.mnh.u.edu Mon.- Sat. 10 am - 5 pm Q Sun. 1- 5 pm

Find us on Facebook.

Follow us on Twitter.

Unique Clothing, Gi s and Accessories for mommy-to-be, newborns, and toddlers

LOCATED IN THE THORNEBROOK VILLAGE 10an%y singleOitemFF

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Summer 2011 | 97

>> SUMMER RULES!

This Ain’t Your Parents’

Summer Camp Unique Alternatives to Traditional Summer Camps

BY JANICE C. KAPLAN hh, the signs of summer.

The splashing of water mingling with swimmers’ shouts of glee. The aroma of char-grilled burgers and dogs wafting through the air. The hum of lawnmowers. And among it all, the yearly battle cry of children everywhere: “I’m BORED!”

A

With the school year finished once again, many parents find themselves looking for ways to occupy their children’s time. And while Gainesville has some great traditional summer camp options, one might not know that there are many unique alternatives as well. From fencing to fine art, life-guarding to technology building, parents can find a stimulating yet fun experience for even the pickiest of campers.

98 | Summer 2011

PHOTOS PROVIDED COURTESY OF HIPPODROME STATE THEATRE AND LOGA SPRINGS ACADEMY

Great Southern Music Camp This weeklong camp is exclusively for youngsters ages 3-6 and includes singing, movement, instrument play and other musical exploration. Sessions run July 11-15 or July 18-22 from 9:30 - 11:00 am, and are held at Great Southern Music on Newberry Road. Cost is $50 per child for the session and class is limited to eight students.

Call 352-505-5440 for additional information.

Theatre The Hippodrome State Theatre offers its annual variety of camps for a wide range of ages and experience levels. Younger beginners explore the dramatic arts through story telling, improvisation, art, voice and movement, culminating in a performance for family and friends.

Older campers participate in workshops on audition techniques, acting and dancing, and they also learn about production aspects such as marketing, set building, lighting

www.VisitOurTowns.com

and costume design. This program concludes with a performance on a Hippodrome stage. Sessions run 2-4 weeks throughout the summer.

Family and multi-camp discounts are available. Check www.thehipp. org for more information and registration forms.

Loga Springs Academy The east Gainesville school offers summer camps on archeology (June 6-10), clay building (June 13-17), world dance (June 20-24),

Summer 2011 | 99

Students ages 6 and older warm up with yoga and tai chi before learning about the basics of fencing, strategy, rhythm and timing.

Self-confidence, goal setting and sportsmanship are emphasized, and fun break-time games are also played. The FFA provides all fencing equipment for campers. Full day camp runs from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm and costs $25 per day or $115 per week. Partial day options for morning or afternoon are also available. Visit www.floridafencingacademy.com or call 352-262-0184 for information or to register.

The Pony Paddock at Cedar Lane

PHOTO PROVIDED COURTESY OF FLORIDA FENCING ACADEMY

sewing (June 27-July 1), movie and thematic reading (July 11-15). All camps run from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm with aftercare available, and cost is $150/week plus materials. Camps are for students from 6th grade through 16 years of age and place an emphasis on inquiry-based instruction and hands-on science.

Call 352-337-0686 or visit www.

logaspringsinternationalacademy. com for more information.

Florida Fencing Academy Fencing schools are known to exist as early as the 12th century in Europe. Today the youth of Gainesville can participate in this centuries-old sport with the 13th annual offering by the FFA.

ELECTRICAL SERVICE, INC.

Let us empower you!

PHONE: 386-418-2199 CELL: 352-256-6949 Richard Pfuntner, Owner Licensed & Insured: Lic. #ER00015344

100 | Summer 2011

A perfect choice for the child whose favorite refrain is, “Can I have a pony?” Campers at Pony Paddock, located in High Springs, learn about the day-to-day activities involved with owning a horse.

Children are taught about a horse’s diet, grooming needs, possible health issues and how to care for tack and equipment. All campers ride twice a day and participate in barn chores such as cleaning stalls, feeding the horses and cleaning tack. Summer camp is offered in eight one-week sessions from June 13 through July 29 and runs from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm; half-day hours run until 1 pm and extended day pickup is available for an additional fee. Cost is $325 per week for full-day camp. Registration information can be found at www.ponypaddockatcedarlane.com

Summer Enrichment Camp

Smart. Creative. Fun. CAMP RUNS FROM: MAY 31, 2011 — AUGUST 5, 2011

THIS YEAR’S OFFERINGS INCLUDE:

Half-day / Full-day / Extended options available. Camp is

Top Chef, Performance Art, Chess, Board

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Summer 2011 | 101

102 | Summer 2011

PHOTOS PROVIDED COURTESY OF UF ENTOMOLOGY FIELD CAMP

UF Entomology Field Camp Designed for students in fifth through ninth grade and great for the bug enthusiast in any family, this camp teaches children about insects by having them collect, dissect and even learn to cook with them. (Don’t ask how they hold the spatulas.) Campers will also meet with a scientist, work a live bee colony, visit the Butterfly Rain Forest and put together an insect collection to take home. Camp runs June 20-24 from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Cost is $175 and includes t-shirts, insect collecting equipment, snacks, field trips and transportation. Visit www.entnemdept.ufl. edu/bug_club/camp.htm for more information and registration forms.

Note that registration for this camp is due May 20, 2011.

Earth Academy Day Camp Campers from 1st to 6th grades come to Morningside Nature Center to learn about natural and cultural history in a way that encourages

an appreciation for the environment. Curriculum includes off-site trips to City of Gainesville nature parks and guest speakers from the community. Character development, trustworthiness and respect are also emphasized. Five weeklong sessions are available between June 13 and August 19 from 8:30 am 4:30 pm. Fee is $105 per week; early drop off and late pickup available.

Visit www.natureoperations.org or call 334-3326.

Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art Most people know about the Florida Museum of Natural History’s summer programs, but the Harn has its own unique offerings as well. Children ages 7-11 are introduced to the world of art by making projects and exploring the gallery. State-certified art instructors guide the campers as they use a variety of materials in pursuing their creativity. Weeklong sessions begin June 13 and cost $140 ($120

for museum members). Contact Bonnie Bernau for information at bbernau@harn.ufl.edu or 392-9826 ext. 2113.

Techno Building Camp Held at Westwood Middle School, this camp for children entering grades 4-9 provides hands-on experience with technology at an age-appropriate level. Children work in a state-of-the-art lab, building simple and complex projects as well as working with computer programs, video games and digital video productions.

Programs of one and two weeks are available for “Toys ‘N Things,” “Dream Builders” and “Ready, Set, Build.” Camps begin June 27 and start at $240. Visit www.technobuildingcamp.com or call 331-7592 for details.

École Française Summer programs teach campers about foreign language and culture through cooking,

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Summer 2011 | 103

per day. For more information visit www.frenchfunfood.com or call 352-332-8198.

All-American Twirling Academy University of Florida Majorette Instructor/Coach June Stoeber (also a former Gatorette captain) offers weekly summer baton lessons for girls ages 4 and up. Students learn the basic moves of baton twirling and have the opportunity to continue lessons in the fall. No experience necessary. Sessions are $10 per one-hour class. Call 352-4866516 for registration information.

Junior Lifeguarding Camp Teens ages 12-15 can get a leg up on future summer jobs by going through much of the training of a certified lifeguard. Campers learn basic first aid procedures and rescuing techniques, participate in drills simulating real-life emergency situations and shadow certified lifeguards. Certain physical prerequisites apply. Camps begin June 13 and cost $121.75 for city residents and $181.75 for non-city residents. Call 334-5067 or visit www.recparks.cityofgainesville.org.

Please note that this camp does not certify students as lifeguards. games, stories, songs, cinema and other activities. The school offers a relaxed, age-appropriate curriculum with multimedia instruction in reading, writing, listening and speaking skills for children ages 4-14. Although the school’s name

104 | Summer 2011

is École Française, many other languages are also taught including Chinese, German, Russian, Hebrew, Tamil and Spanish. Half-day and full-day options are available, with no minimum/successive day requirement. Prices start at $20

There is no shortage of activities for children of all ages this summer and this is but a small sampling of things to do. All that is needed is a desire to expand horizons and try something new! s

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>> BEER HERE!

A Passion for the Craft

BY JANICE C. KAPLAN eer is known as many things — a necessary component to a tailgate party, a tasty way to end a stressful workweek, or perhaps a refreshing beverage to cool off with by the side of the pool or on the beach. Yet, until recent years, the American image of beer itself has been largely generic, its light golden color refracting bright sunshine and neon lights through a tall, clear glass.

But American tastes are

B

changing and consumers are demanding more variety of flavor and color in products, including beer. This has led to a surge in the popularity of craft beers, brewed by individuals and smaller, local breweries to be unique and more flavorful than beer produced for mass appeal. According to the National Brewers Association, in 2010, small and independent beer brewers saw sales volume increase 11 percent and retail sales dollars increase 12 percent over the previous year. And the American

Homebrewers Association states that in 2009, there were 750,000 home brewers and 800 home-brew clubs in the United States.

Craft brewers are known for innovation and twists on classic beer styles. Traditional ingredients, like malted barley, are often combined with non-traditional components such as herbs, fruit or even coffee, to provide a distinctive and full flavor experience.

The creative nature of craft beer is often what attracts people to the hobby of home brewing. Home

PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

Brandon Nappy, Craig Birkmaier, Luke Kemper, Katie Allen and Nick Dunn make it all happen at Swamp Head Brewery.

108 | Summer 2011

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 109

“We called it the brewery’s Gatorade; we pretty much drank that while working here and doing everything for the next few months.” brewer Will Giles has been brewing for eight years.

“I didn’t like most of the commercial stuff out there,” said Giles, who works at Hoggetowne Ale Works. Giles describes his first taste of home-brewed beer as, “night and day compared to what you get in the stores. It had a lot more flavor, ginger and a couple of other spices that you just don’t see. It piqued my interest from there.”

Storeowner Barron Humphries

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said the process of home brewing is accessible to most anyone.

“Anyone that can cook a meal by following a recipe can easily brew a batch of beer,” he said. “It costs about the same, but unlike a dinner, the beer will last for months, can be taken to social events, given away as gifts, and ultimately provide the brewer with greater personal satisfaction.”

Brewers in Gainesville have plenty of company. The Hogtown

Brewers, a club of about 100 home brewers in the Gainesville area, provides social opportunities for brewers along with vast resources for those looking to start home brewing or perfect their skills. The club’s website includes a calendar of beer-centric events, as well as a “Brew School” page with links to home brewing reference pages, software, stores, news and other information.

Ron Minkoff is a member of the Hogtown Brewers and has been making his own beer since 2003.

“For people who are starting, it certainly is a support group for people to learn and get tips on how to improve their home brewing. There are also a lot of BJCP [Beer Judge Certification Program]

beer judges in the club so you can get your home brew evaluated from people who study how to judge beers.”

Minkoff, who is himself a BJCP judge, explained that the club also helps members enter beers into the various competitions in the state of Florida.

Getting started in home brewing is not a difficult process.

Giles said a basic home kit could include a primary fermenter, a bottling bucket, a carboy (a large glass jug), siphoning equipment, cleaning and sanitizing equipment and testing equipment such as a hydrometer. A bottling wand helps fill bottles more easily but is not essential. Humphries said that kits at his store start at $59.99 and up,

depending upon the equipment included. The store also offers a house recipe book and bi-monthly classes on advanced techniques.

Minkoff said that while the right equipment is important, the right attitude is even more so.

“Looking forward to the sport of making your own is the biggest one right there,” he said. “I could just go down the store and buy beer if I want to, but like a lot of things you do yourself, it’s fun to do all of these things and learn how to do it well.”

There are those, however, who are interested in craft beer but lack the desire or time to make it themselves. Thankfully, the journey to distinctive lager is not a long one. Gainesville’s own Swamp Head Brewery is a local microbrewery

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PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

LEFT: Head Brewer Craig Birkmaier harvests yeast from a batch of Wild Night as brewery assistant Nick Dunn looks on.

Yeast can be harvested and re-used multiple times with proper harvesting and storage procedures.

ABOVE: Craig Birkmaier checks the volume of wort being run into the boil kettle for a batch of Big Nose. Wort contains the sugars that will be fermented by the brewing yeast to produce alcohol.

At the end of boiling, the wort is quickly cooled and the yeast are added to begin fermentation.

Summer 2011 | 111

run by area native Luke Kemper. working to keep up with an everare antiquated and unnecessarily Swamp Head got its start when increasing demand. restrictive to microbreweries.

Kemper’s stepfather introduced Today Swamp Head features five “We’re trying to work on getting him to brewer Craig Birkmaier. craft beers year-round, includthe laws revised here to make it A home brewer for many years, ing the original Wild Night, with easier for smaller brew pubs and Birkmaier had an array of beers several more seasonal varieties craft breweries to make a buck that he shared with Kemper and rotated throughout the year. Their initially,” said Birkmaier, who was other guests at parties. award-winning varieties are found recently elected to the Florida The flavors inspired Kemper to at more than 30 restaurants and Brewers Guild board. “Anybody change the course of like us has to sell his life. After attending through a distributor school in Boulder, per Florida law [which Col., and graduating increases the price for from the University the consumer]. What of Florida, he was set a lot of breweries are to attend graduate looking for is limschool for fisheries ited self-distribution, and aquatic sciences. which is to say that But he abandoned we could buy a that plan to focus truck, and we could on starting his own cover Gainesville brewing business, and and Ocala.” he knew exactly who Birkmaier he wanted to hire first. explained that relax“I started writing a ing distribution and business plan, talked sales laws, which has with Craig and said, ‘Do been done in about you want to make your 20 other states, gives home brewed beers consumers more come to life?’” One choices in the long thing led to another and run without hurting we just figured we’d give distributors. it a shot.”

“In many other In August of 2008, states now, anybody Swamp Head purchased who makes beer can PHOTO COURTESY OF HOGTOWN BREWERS brewing equipment retail it onsite, have from a brewery in The a tasting room, and Hogtown Brewers member Lee Smith tends to his boil at a Villages that had gone have at least limrecent Moonlight Brew. out of business. In ited self-distribution,” an odd bit of kismet Birkmaier said.

Birkmaier had actually brewed on bars in Gainesville including BJ’s “That really helps the economthe system before, so they brought Restaurant and Brewhouse, The ics of getting started; once the equipment back to Gainesville Top, The Red Onion, Satchel’s, you start getting larger, you and rented a warehouse. In April of Urban Flats and Northwest Grill. need distribution anyway.” the following year, the first batch of And this past spring they opened Area establishments with both Swamp Head beer was brewed — a their tasting room, a cozy and local and national roots see locally honey cream ale called Wild Night. rustic hideaway where customers produced craft beers as a good “It was a five barrel batch, 155 can sample the company’s brews opportunity to promote the local gallons, and it came out fantastic,” or take home a “growler” jug filled economy. Alex Puchner is the Kemper said. “We called it the with their favorite variety.

Senior Vice President of Brewing brewery’s Gatorade; we pretty While the brewery has develOperations with BJ’s Restaurant much drank that while working oped a loyal following for its beers, and Brewhouse. While BJ’s has its here and doing everything Kemper and Birkmaier have an own line of 30-40 beers on tap at its for the next few months.” additional mission — to promote restaurants, the company recogThe brewery sold its first product responsible legislative changes to nizes the benefit of variety. in November of 2009 and has been state beer laws that many believe “We realize that there’s an

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incredible world of beer out there, and we like to have something for everyone,” Pulcher said. “We have some very popular craft beers that are distributed nationally, but on top of that we make every effort to offer local beers. If it’s good beer, if it’s brewed locally, if it’s fresh, we’re going to dedicate handles to it. In Gainesville, we have [Swamp Head’s] Big Nose India Pale Ale on tap and it’s one of our top selling beers there.”

Pulcher said that the surge of interest in local and craft brews has led to a renaissance of beer appreciation, specifically in the realm of food and beer pairing.

Many diners regularly ask what wine goes with a particular dish, but fewer consider the same question with beer. This has been a focus of employee training over the last year as part of an effort to help guests appreciate how well beer pairs with food.

Pairing with food is something that Pulcher believes beer actually does better than wine, for a number of reasons.

“Beer is more versatile. It comes in a bigger variety of styles and flavors,” he said. “There really isn’t a food out there that you can’t find a beer to pair it with. Beer also has two things that wine doesn’t have to effectively scrub your palate — carbonation and hops. Beer is less acidic and more quaffable than wine, particularly with a spicy dish.

And finally, beer makes me hungry.

When I’m drinking beer I’m always thinking, ‘I wonder what I could be eating with this.’”

Home brewers share this sentiment and further explain how beer has a great deal of flavor variety because of the sheer number of ingredients with which they can experiment.

“When I first started brewing, I made a sweet potato beer,” said home brewer Giles. “It was amazing and it went perfectly with barbecue. [The combinations] would surprise you.”

Pulcher said the same basic

pairing rules that apply with wine also apply with beer.

“Generally you want to pair paler beers with seafood and poultry,” he said. “Amber and darker beers go well with red meats.”

He also mentioned something often overlooked; beer, especially dark beer, goes extremely well with desserts.

“If you don’t believe it, try it,” Pulcher said. “There are sweet stouts and fruit beers that are fantastic with dessert.” For instance, Swamp Head’s Midnight Oil, a blend of chocolate wheat malt, dark roast organic coffee and toasted oatmeal, creates the perfect end to a hearty meal.”

The future of craft beers is bright thanks to an increasing number of brew clubs and customer demand.

Swamp Head expects to produce 2,100 barrels of beer in 2011, three times as much as it brewed in 2010.

Kemper’s future plans for the brewery include obtaining bigger tanks and to produce a bottled or canned packaged product in stores. He and Birkmaier also hope to purchase a facility designed to be a brewery, with outdoor space to hold events such as release parties and festivals.

The independent spirit of the home or local brewer helps give craft beers its grassroots reputation.

It is their hands-on experience that, in Kemper’s opinion, results in a unique product that is hard to find in mass production.

“A lot of people go to school for botany, but people who have been gardening for a long time have tried-and-true methods and have had their hands in the soil,” he said.

“They’re often much better doing it intuitively than someone who just comes out of school learning what you should or shouldn’t do but doesn’t have the green thumb yet.

“In the same way, home brewers know what they’re doing a lot more than someone who has only had training. They have been trying with all these different recipes, and their beers are often so much tastier.” s

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MAKE YOUR OWN Mead A Traditional Fermented Beverage 1 sterilized wine bottle with cork or screw top 1 cup of Florida palmetto honey — or any locally produced honey you like 1 tablespoon of yeast Filtered Water Directions: Funnel yeast into wine bottle. Then funnel in honey and fill bottle to the top with water. Cork.

Mead will be drinkable in 7-10 days.

Recipe courtesy Sander Travisano of Pelican Brothers Food Truck

Bul A Traditional Cuban Beer Spritzer 3 cups beer (pilsner) 3 cups ginger ale 1/2 cup sugar, or to taste 4 limes, juiced 2 cup crushed ice Directions: In a pitcher combine the beer, sugar, lime juice, and ice.

Mix well. Garnish with a slice of lime.

Yields 4 servings.

Summer 2011 | 115

COLUMN >> ALBERT ISAAC

Different Note There is a story about an old man who had jumped into a roaring river and was swept over a waterfall. iraculously, he bobbed up unscathed. A young man asked him how he managed such a feat.

Those rocks should have smashed him to smithereens.

He survived, basically, by going with the flow, not fighting the currents, becoming one with the water, letting it carry him where it may.

Indeed. Going with the flow helped a friend of mine when he wrecked his bike. He decided to follow this principle while careening into rock and root. He didn’t escape unscathed like the old man but neither did he break any bones.

Going with the flow works, even when doing really stupid things, as I shall now illustrate in my first in a series of Really Stupid Things I Have Done So That You Won’t Have To series, brought to you by the department of redundancy department.

When we were kids, my cousins and brother and I were busy one summer building a fort on a mountain in North Carolina. There were two ways to get to the remote spot we had chosen for our creation: one was easy, the other treacherous. We could follow the trail leading up the mountain or we could crawl straight up the side of the cliff.

M

We chose the trail. We were carrying axes and hatchets, after all.

After hours of hard work cutting down the trees to make this fine fort/cabin/hut you-name-it thing, I was pretty much dying of thirst and didn’t feel like taking the long, safe walk down the trail. I opted to take the shortcut down the steep cliff.

I’d gone up and down those cliffs a million times over the course of my 13 years. Piece of cake. So, with hiking stick in hand I commenced the downward trek across loose gravel and rock. I found I could make pretty good time and exert myself less by taking little hops.

Let me be the first to tell you that taking little hops on a steep cliff face is a bad idea, unless you want to be a proud recipient of the Darwin Award — bestowed posthumously, of course. (The Charles Darwin Award commemorates those who assist natural selection by removing themselves from the gene pool.) To my great chagrin, my little hops accelerated into a blistering descent with my head moving downward slightly faster than my galloping feet.

This is a recipe for disaster, so I ran faster and faster, basically trying to catch up with my head.

Oh, I should mention that at the bottom of this cliff is Highway 105 with its steady stream of cars and trucks racing by in excess of 60 mph. And here I am, now running 60 mph myself — and headed right toward this deathtrap. By this point I was no longer taking tiny hops. Nope. I was bounding downhill in gigantic, loping strides that seemed to measure half a football field in length, careening out of control toward my bloody destination with 105.

I jettisoned my hiking stick and rocketed headlong

I jettisoned my hiking stick and rocketed headlong down the cliff, all the while contemplating my next move. Amazingly, I was still accelerating, moving faster than my gangly legs were designed to go

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down the cliff, all the while contemplating my next move. Amazingly, I was still accelerating, moving faster than my gangly legs were designed to go, trying desperately to keep up with my forward leaning head.

So I stopped. Stopped running, that is. I didn’t stop moving, obviously, because that would defy the laws of physics.

I had figured, and rightly so, that a controlled fall onto rock and gravel was preferable to an uncontrolled high-speed collision with asphalt and truck tires. So I stopped running.

Now hurtling in mid-air at the speed of sound I had little time to contemplate my stupidity before plummeting heels over head upon the afore-mentioned rock and gravel. But I was fortunate and a gigantic blackberry bush cushioned my fall with its barbed brambles.

I hit, and I hit hard, but a good distance from the Highway of Death below. After a few dozen obligatory bounces I stuck to the bush like Velcro. And even though I was sliced to ribbons, still I was grateful for those blackberries, as I lay upon the gravel and rock and thorns staring up into blue sky. Alive.

I checked myself for broken bones and, finding none, got my water and, like any self-respecting teen, I went back to work.

So my lesson to all, whether leaping into a rushing river, crashing a bike or falling down a cliff, it’s best to relax and go with the flow. s

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Summer 2011 | 117

>> ENTREPRENEUR

Sandra Meza Colombian Immigrant, Young Mother, and...

Swimwear Fashion Designer

BY C. NOORIEL NOLAN ainesville women can rejoice. A new fashion designer is in town [estan una desañador de modas nueva] with a mission to design elegant swimsuits for women of all sizes.

Sandra Meza’s passion for handmade fashions began back in 2005 after giving birth to her daughter.

She realized there were few clothing lines in her native Colombia for post-maternity women, so she and her best friend Diana Vargas began creating their own shirts. The reaction from friends became their inspiration to go into business for themselves. They began designing accessories that made shirts more glamorous, in an effort to provide

G

118 | Summer 2011

fancy clothing to women with normal figures. However, their business came to a halt in 2008 when Sandra moved to the United States with her husband and young daughter.

But, Sandra and Diana continued designing items for personal use.

When local friends began taking notice of Sandra’s unique bathing suits, a new idea transpired. They decided to restart their business in Gainesville, this time focusing their efforts solely on swimsuit fashions.

Meza and Vargas launched their swimsuit company, Sironna Swimwear, in Gainesville in April 2010. Their colorful, unique fashions have been featured in Gainesville’s Fashion Week, creating local buzz for the fresh designers.

As the artist, Meza is ecstatic

that her designs are gaining local interest. But the reality of building a business is difficult. While their market is here in Gainesville, Vargas and their fabric suppliers are in Colombia. Coordinating their business efforts is challenging, but Meza and Vargas make a good team. Using her marketing and advertising background, Vargas creates partnerships with fabric providers and professional sewers in Colombia that provide Sironna Swimwear with the basic swimsuit patterns. In turn, Meza the artist creates the detailed designs that adorn the suits, hand sewing them in her home office.

The Sironna Swimwear creators conduct most of their business interactions via Internet, using

PHOTOS BY SANDRA MEZA and TJ MORRISSEY

Designer Sandra Meza in her Gainesville home office surrounded by colorful material and spools of thread; just some of the tools of her trade. Meza sews all the details by hand, taking personal interest in each creation. Alexandra Girardot poses at Blue Springs wearing one of Meza’s original swimsuits.

Skype for meetings and websites to order materials. Together they choose colors, fabrics and materials from providers in Colombia. Vargas handles the purchasing and shipping, making sure the materials reach Meza here in the States.

“Es dificil,” [it’s difficult] Sandra said. While this situation is far from ideal, the technology allows them to pursue their dream together, regardless of residential location.

Together, they are building a transcontinental business, quite the endeavor for two young women

just beginning their professional careers.

Meza’s ambition is to become a well-known designer, with a recognizable brand and her own boutique. But her motivation for swimsuit fashion remains helping average women feel good about themselves. Meza wants all women to feel glamorous in their swimsuits. Thus, she is particular about her fabrics and designs, choosing only ones she herself would want to wear. Though her current swimsuit lines do not yet reach the broad

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audience she hopes for (they seem suited to a younger crowd), it is easy to understand why. Gainesville is a college town, so she chose to target younger shoppers first.

She hopes to entice the university population to try her new brand.

Coeds keep up with trendy fashions and are generally more excited about new brands, particularly with local events like Gainesville Fashion Week (GFW) specifically targeting their age group.

Sironna Swimwear debuted during last year’s Gainesville

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Despite living in a foreign country, learning the language, raising a daughter and trying to start her own business — Meza is hopeful her dream will become a reality.

Fashion Week, and the designers were invited back this April. Their new line was met with cheers as models strutted to South American music that echoed through the Villa East venue. Like the music, the new designs had a distinct Colombian flair, with vibrant oranges, pinks and turquoise, in bold patterns. The line consisted mostly of small bikinis (again for younger women), but did introduce a few new items including a tankini, beach cover-up and floral fabric hair accessories. The designers had planned to introduce a new swimsuit collection for mothers and daughters at this year’s event, but in her efforts to prepare for GFW, Meza ran out of time.

“I’m so tired,” she explained.

“I’ve been [makes a sewing gesture] every night.”

Meza sews all the details by hand, taking personal interest in each creation. She taught herself how to crochet as a young girl, a skill that has proven invaluable to her designs.

Her lifelong passion for handcrafted art is evident. Each suit is embellished with some detail — fabric, beading, crocheted designs, etc.

Meza still plans to launch her Mother-Daugher line. She said if all goes as planned, the collection will be something special. The inspiration for the line is obvious: Sandra’s

daughter, a constant little presence.

“She tries to copy me, making things for her dolls,” Meza explained in her thick Colombian accent.

Curious, and ever attentive to her mother, Maria was frontand-center when the first models strutted down the GFW runway wearing her mother’s designs. And when her mother took a bow at the end of her show, Maria was beaming from ear to ear. Meza hopes the Mother-Daughter swimsuits will make Sironna Swimwear more popular in Gainesville.

“I’d love it if my bathing suits were very recognizable,” Meza said in her native tongue.

While there was some interest in her suits last year, business is still slow. She remains optimistic for the future and even envisions an expanding market as individuals leave Gainesville and spread the word about Sironna nationwide.

Despite the many obstacles that exist in her life — living in a foreign country, learning the language, raising a daughter and trying to start her own business — Meza is hopeful her dream will become a reality.

With her determination, her passion for creating fashions for every-day women, and her eye for beautiful designs, she may just succeed. s

PHOTOS BY SANDRA MEZA and TJ MORRISSEY

Alexandra Girardot models another of Sandra Meza’s swimsuits at Blue Springs. Meza’s designs could also be found at the annual Gainesville Fashion Week event, held over a five-day period from April 6 – 10. On Friday and Saturday nights, models took to the runway at the Villa East in Gainesville. Meza and daughter Maria were front-and-center when the models strutted down the catwalk wearing her designs. When Meza took a bow at the end of her show, Maria was beaming from ear to ear. Meza hopes the Mother-Daughter swimsuits will make Sironna Swimwear more popular in Gainesville.

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>> TRAVEL

Jewel of the

Italian Riviera The Gulf of La Spezia Goes Beyond the Typical Tourist Itinerary

BY JULIA MACALUSO hen we think of Italian seaside towns, images of Portofino, Positano or any of the Cinque Terre may come to mind. But for the Italians, these places hold little more than hype. That’s why when so many foreign visitors were flocking to hike the Cinque Terre last summer, I found myself rounding the corner of Montemarcello on the Gulf of La Spezia, the summer retreat for my Italian boyfriend and his family.

Here, just a few kilometers from all the tourists, I found a place little known outside of Italy.

Among the first towns on the southeast side of the bay is Lerici.

With its large plaza on the shoreline

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and relatively large year-round population, English writers have favored Lerici as a pleasant home base from which to explore the coast. Here, you can wake up to the typical Italian breakfast of cappuccino and brioche (croissant) at Pasticceria L’Ambrosia and hit the spacious seaside plaza for a spectacular view of hundreds of buoyed boats nestled at the base of Castello San Giorgio.

It’s just a short walk up through the narrow streets, with breathtaking views from between the row houses, to the towering castle.

Inside, you can admire the striped Genoan stonework of the castle’s Saint Anastasia Chapel while the children gawk at marine and dinosaur artifacts from the bay area in the castle’s geopaleontological

museum. Be sure to call ahead and reserve an English guide to maximize your experience, as the descriptions of the nonetheless telling items are found only in Italian.

Returning back down the hill and through the piazza, you can stop at La Gerla Pizzeria, renowned for its pizza chef who traveled all the way to Australia in 2006 to win the pizza-maker’s world championship with the same recipe he uses to

this day. Remember, this is no New York slice. Here you’ll find pizza made with fresh ingredients, which is part of the UNESCO-protected traditional Italian diet.

After lunch, as you make your way again to shore drive, make sure to stop in at Bahia Café music bar, where you’ll meet Clara Monaco who can advise you on your stay.

As you sit at the bar for a glass of wine, you’ll see her personally greet

and shake the hands of everyone who comes through the door. She and her Swiss husband Philippe are known for their generous hospitality to the sailors and tourists who find themselves attracted to the bay.

“If people need something, they know to come here,” says Philippe. “We’re like a real estate agency, a marriage agency, a job agency, a tourist agency...and we don’t ask a red cent!”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF COMUNE DI LERICI

Whereas most of the coast is rocky, San Terenzo’s beaches are sandy and relatively easy to reach.

The seaside promenade will take you right up to Percy Bysshe Shelley’s home, Villa Magni, where you can even go for a picnic in the villa’s public garden.

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PHOTO BY JULIA MACALUSO

Clara Monaco’s Bahia Café is a gathering place for good wine and music in the summer. Her and her Swiss husband Philippe are known for their generous hospitality to the sailors and tourists who find themselves attracted to the bay.

Clara will graciously direct you to places like Ciccillo a Mare, a cliff-side restaurant just under the castle, where you can get a seafood soup with shrimp, mussels, whole fish, crab leg and other jewels from the sea. A word to the wise: should you choose this sumptuous dish, be prepared to peel and de-bone as you go!

Clara can also direct you to the vaporetto, or waterbus, which will take you to the Cinque Terre, five colorful fishing villages crowded, almost carved, into the Ligurian cliffs and riddled with characteristic stone stairways. The Cinque Terre are best approached by sea or the train from La Spezia, as they

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are closed off to street traffic. The road that connects them goes as much as 500 meters up the mountains just to come down again at each town.

Many tourists prefer to take the hiking paths that link the towns, the most famous of which is the Via dell’Amore.

From Lerici, the borgo of Tellaro is just a short bus ride away, tucked beneath the olive groves. It was here that one dark night during the Middle Ages, an octopus is said to have rung the church bell, warning the townspeople of an oncoming raid by Saracen pirates. In honor of this heroic act, they hold an octopus food festival every August, where you can sample octopus simmered with olives, potatoes, garlic, lemon and parsley, or, for the brave of palate, octopus all’inferno.

Wash it down with Vermentino, a celebrated white wine from the nearby hills of Luni.

Those who prefer to pass their days in the seclusion of these olive groves of Tellaro will love Agriturismo Gallerani, a bed and breakfast (and lunch) tucked away on a working farm. Be prepared for a crash course in Italian sign language, as the proprietors pride themselves on speaking little English. Many guests appreciate the full-immersion language-learning experience, and will visit the livestock — which may appear on the lunch table later — and help pick the fruit and vegetables that grow on the farm’s terraces.

If a place on the water is more to your liking, I might recommend Hotel Shelley e delle Palme, a lovely place right on the sea, which was once the sojourn of author D.H. Lawrence, back in 1930 when room and board cost only six francs a day.

PHOTO COURTESY OF COMUNE DI LERICI

“We slept at Lerici, the first night, which does the bay, the brimming sea and the green sailing ship and the island and the sparkling fading red and yellow night lamps to perfection… Lerici is hot and blue and we had a room with a balcony” — Virginia Woolf, A Writer’s Diary

He wrote about it in a letter to his friend Edward Garnett in Sept 1930, saying “this is a delicious hotel...a big bedroom with a balcony just over the sea, very beautiful.”

Although the prices have certainly increased over the years, and the hotel and town itself have been remodeled since those days when it was still a sleepy fishing village, the hotel views continue to inspire and its decor evokes memories of the early 1900s.

The Hotel Shelley takes its name from the English Romantic poet who lived briefly in a hamlet of Lerici and died at sea a century before Lawrence’s sojourn there. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s home, Villa Magni, in San Terenzo, is now a private residence, but the lovely seaside promenade will take you right up to it, where you can even go for a picnic in the villa’s public garden.

Legend tells differing accounts of Shelley’s friend Lord Byron’s ambitious swim across the gulf to Lerici.

Some say he swam the gulf to visit his friend during that ill-fated summer. Others say a grief-stricken Byron swam it after Shelley’s funeral in an act of desperation.

Though the story is probably more mythical than historical, the entire gulf celebrates the feat with the annual Byron Cup, an 8k swimming race in his honor. Adventurous tourists who visit in August can take part in the race as well.

The old fishing and shipping traditions have also found new expression in the events that take place here, such as the yearly Palio del Golfo, a rowing regatta between the 13 borghi, or villages. The traditional wooden fishing boat is modified for a two-mile race that harks back to the informal competition between fishermen to be the first to get their catch to the fish market on the banks. The winning borgo takes the banner to their rowing headquarters to keep until the next year’s race. Village pride

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is rampant, as displayed in a lively pre-race parade in La Spezia. This year, the borghi will share a unified theme in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy.

The gulf also harbors one of the largest naval bases in Italy, located in the city of La Spezia, replete with a museum that boasts hundreds of model boats. The museum even has the earliest incarnation of the radio, developed by Guglielmo Marconi to communicate between the land and ships at sea. The museum also holds a gem of this coast, Atalanta, a ship’s figurehead that inspired generations of sailors to love in a bay where a retired navy diver once told me, “When there’s silence on the bay, you can hear all the different languages, music and sounds of the world carried on the breeze.”

Be sure to bring your translation dictionary or an Italian friend, as the museum’s labels aren’t translated.

After touring the artifacts, you can go for lunch at La Pia, a locally

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PHOTO COURTESY OF COMUNE DI LERICI

A view of Tellaro and San Giorgio Church, where a legendary octopus rang the bell to warn residents of an imminent attack by Saracen pirates.

famous eatery originally frequented by 20th century laborers from the shipping docks. Here, you can order a local specialty, the farinata, a snack made from a chickpea batter and baked in a wood-burning oven.

Take in the lively atmosphere at one of the bench tables, where you can rub elbows with locals of truly every age and class.

Head out again to one of the many museums in the city, some of which are a short walk through the pedestrian shopping streets from La Pia. You’ll find museums of historical art, pagan statues, artifacts from the seafloor, modern art such as Italian futurism, and, for collectors, the most complete collection of wax seals in the world. Then, unwind with a glass of wine in a local enoteca to set the mood for your evening meal in a restaurant located in an old wine cellar, All’Inferno. This century-old restaurant serves typical

foods of the area, such as an excellent plate of stuffed anchovies and a satiating mixed bean soup, meschua.

The brief menu changes daily and is presented verbally, even in English.

Now that you’ve seen Lerici in the east and La Spezia in the center, you can finish your tour in Portovenere, a UNESCO world heritage site. Here, the church of San Pietro is well worth a visit. It’s perched atop a wind-battered rock promontory, where a temple to Venus used to stand. The church dates back to the 5th and 13th centuries and is built of striped black and white marble.

After touring the church you will probably have worked up an appetite. Do as the Ligurians do: stop in at a local focacceria and treat yourself to a piece of focaccia, the salted oil-basted flat bread typical of the area, served with rosemary, cherry tomatoes, or whatever the baker recommends. Better yet, if

Kristin Kozelsky Photographer

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you want to pick up some souvenirs while you eat make sure to stop by Bajeicò The Pesto Boutique, serving Portovenere since 1949. Here you’ll find different kinds of traditional light fare for lunch or a snack on a whim. Even if it’s early for snacking, you can simply purchase the pesto from the front window on the street and be on your way. Those at home awaiting your return with watering mouths will thank you.

Before you head home, try to make time for a daytrip down the coast to Pisa’s famous Piazza dei Miracoli or up the coast to tour Christopher Columbus’s hometown, Genoa. These two cities were once very powerful maritime republics, in constant battle for a foothold in the Gulf of La Spezia, which lay directly between them. Since Genoa ultimately won, you’ll notice the architectural influence they brought to the gulf as you tour the churches there.

Finally, be sure to stop by the monument to Columbus (Cristoforo Colombo, to the Italians). It’s a great way to wrap up your Italian trip and reflect on your own expedition before setting out over the ocean to a place that seems worlds away from this historical and deeply traditional county. s

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>> CHARITY

Climbing for a Cure Scaling Mountains to Conquer Cancer

BY MARY GOODWIN he last time Ron Farb climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, his sister Harriet was trekking alongside him. Harriet, who passed away in October after a 20-year battle with breast cancer, is believed to be the first person to climb Kilimanjaro while undergoing chemotherapy. Being with her, Ron said, was one of the greatest honors of his life.

Now, three years later, Ron is preparing for the same climb — one that will allow him to be with Harriet once again, as he spreads her ashes on the top of the mountain at her final resting place.

Ron departs for his third ascent of Kilimanjaro July 21, with Tibetan prayer flags bearing the names

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of those who have died of cancer. Some flags will be returned to loved ones, others will be released into the wind. On this trip he is especially honoring Harriet and her friend Elizabeth Edwards, a best-selling author and attorney who died in December of breast cancer.

But Ron and the team of climbers that will accompany him are not solely climbing to honor those who have died of cancer; they are climbing to conquer cancer and raise money for those battling the disease.

The climb will mark Ron’s eighth fundraising climb since he and his wife Dianne co-founded Climb for Cancer, a non-profit organization that raises money to fund cancer research, as well as programs supporting cancer patients and their families.

Harriet’s diagnosis, along with the time Ron spent

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RON FARB

OPPOSITE: Ron Farb crossing the Khumbu Icefall on Mount Everest in 2005. The icefall, considered one of the most dangerous crevasses to cross in the climb toward the summit, is constantly moving. INSET: Harriet Farb climbing Kilimanjaro in 2007.

Farb raised $15,000 on this climb for the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center where she was treated.

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Summer 2011 | 129

PHOTO COURTESY OF RON FARB

Ron Farb on his last climb with former Gator football captain James Smith on Aconcaugua, the highest mountain in the Americas.

at Camp Sunshine — a retreat camp for children with life-threatening illnesses — prompted him and Dianne to organize fundraising climbs, which allowed them to raise about $35,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Eight years ago, they founded Climb for Cancer, which has raised more than $1 million for cancer research and related support groups. The foundation’s programs use smaller gifts to “fill in the cracks left by organizations that make much larger gifts.” Ron said if someone donates even $4, they have made a difference by providing a parking voucher to a cancer patient at Shands. A $5 donation can cover a meal for a family member of someone being treated, and $10 can give him or her a gas card.

Making large use of smaller donations like this is the purpose of the foundation’s most recent program: Harriet’s Helping Hands. Named after Ron’s sister, the program helps to ease the cost of treatment for cancer patients and their families by covering food, gas and hospital parking costs.

Ron said these types of donations do not amount to abstract money that falls into a black hole of cancer research; they are making an immediate impact on cancer patients and their families with the everyday expenses they face during treatment.

The foundation also created and funded the Butterfly Connection, which partners the Arts in Medicine Program at Shands and the Florida Museum of Natural History Butterfly Rainforest. The program allows cancer patients and their caregivers to tour the Butterfly Rainforest free of charge.

Climb for Cancer has created or funded several other psychosocial programs to support patients and families.

The newly established Cancer Survivorship Program at the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center will offer clinical assessment and patient education to survivors

130 | Summer 2011

of pediatric cancer, which aims to “empower cancer survivors and their families in understanding the long-term health and social consequences of surviving cancer.”

Other cancer programs in Florida include Lifeline, which assists cancer caregivers with the preparation and process of care giving; Families First, at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, which supports parents battling cancer and their children as they adjust to the effects of the illness; Parentto-Parent, a mentoring program at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg that matches parents whose children have completed treatment with parents whose children are currently undergoing treatment; and Streetlight, which is designed to meet the specific psychological needs of young adults with cancer.

While Ron’s climbs raise a large part of the money used to help fund these programs, the foundation also hosts several fundraisers throughout the year, bringing in thousands of dollars. Climb for Cancer will coordinate a tri-distance run, fashion show and musical concert all before May of this year.

Ron had an aggressive goal of 1,000 runners to participate in the third annual Climb for Cancer Tri-Distance Run held February 5. Runners had the choice to walk or run 5, 10 or 15 kilometers through a trail in Haile Plantation.

Dianne said some of the participants run in honor of family members while some are cancer survivors themselves. Even standing at the finish line and encouraging the runners is a great way to show support, she said.

“It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to encourage folks raising money for a great cause.”

While Ron said some experienced runners use it as a qualifying race for more challenging runs, it is doable for most ages and levels of ability.

“Even though it’s a timed race, it’s not a championship race,” he said. “The spirit of the event is fellowship, community and raising money for the charity.”

The foundation’s second fundraiser of the year, Cause 4 Fashion, was the second annual fashion show to benefit Climb for Cancer programs. The show, which was held Friday, March 11 in the Hilton’s University of Florida Conference Center, featured cancer survivors aged 7 to 75 modeling outfits and accessories from local merchants down a rock ‘n’ roll themed runway.

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With a mission to rock their way to a cure, the Farbs called the fashion show a “celebration of survival” that demonstrates how donations of any size can help save lives.

“It sends a message of hope to see these cancer survivors getting up, modeling clothes and feeling good about themselves,” Dianne said. “And it’s especially heartwarming to see the kids.”

Which is one of the reasons the foundation created a new event this year benefiting the Department of Pediatric Oncology at Shands. Ron hopes to fill the 1,750 seats in the University of Florida Performing Arts Phillips Center at the foundation’s first-ever concert Friday, September 23. Barbara Padilla, 2009 runner-up of the television show “America’s Got Talent,” will be singing popular opera songs as the event’s featured artist.

Ron said after watching “America’s Got Talent,” he wanted to work with Padilla, who fought a five-year battle with cancer.

“I watched this woman, and I was taken, not only with her prestigious talent, but with her grace and humility,” he said. “I think anybody of any age who appreciates music will appreciate the performance she puts on.”

Along with Padilla, Ron said children from P.K. Yonge’s Performing Arts Program will join her on stage and sing separately with a Broadway style performance.

Ron said the concert not only allows the foundation to spread awareness to the remarkable program at P.K. Yonge, but because it benefits pediatric oncology, it also gives children a chance to help other children.

The sum of the ticket sales will be divided into thirds and equally disbursed to benefit three local programs: pediatric oncology at Shands, the P.K. Yonge Performing Arts Program and Chords of Color for a Cause, which is a cancer education and advocacy program that features performing artists of various genres who are cancer survivors themselves or have supported loved ones diagnosed with the disease.

“We feel that fills our mission to bring awareness to the different types of cancer,” Ron said.

John Cannack, who climbed Kilimanjaro three years ago with Ron and Harriet, said the foundation not only brings awareness to the disease, but also improves the lives of cancer patients and their families every day.

Cannack said he is climbing Kilimanjaro again with Ron in July to honor Harriet, who he described as a superwoman for climbing in the condition she was in.

Cannack said two of the things that stood out about Harriet were her optimism and cheerfulness.

“She never once complained or mentioned what she was going through,” he said. “She was a pleasure to be around, and a truly amazing woman.”

In honor of Harriet and all those who have died of cancer, and to see a cure in his lifetime, Ron will continue to conquer mountains. After all, he said, anyone dealing with cancer is personally climbing Mount Everest every day. s

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>> ORGANIC BLUEBERRIES

Get the Healthy Blues

PHOTOS BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOUTUS STUDIOS

BY DENISE TRUNK KRIGBAUM ormally reserved for building sandcastles, the small plastic bucket held about two pints of small round blue berries. One day in May 2010, a 3-foot-high girl carried the bucket down rugged rows of 6-foot high bushes, her mother not far behind. The cool morning air hinted of warmer afternoon weather yet to come.

The little girl reached out her hands to pluck berry after blue berry and plunked them in her small bucket, with a few handfuls admittedly making a detour into her mouth. In no time at all the little girl’s bucket

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reached overflowing and she had to dump the contents into her mom’s larger bag.

Amid the Gainesville Organic Blueberry Farm’s extensive blueberry bushes, picking pounds of ripe, sweet berries is the matter of an hour or two. Area organic farms like this one use no inorganic pesticides or fertilizers, making it safe for a child to sample a berry or two off the bush.

For adults, the easy-to-pick berries are a superfood that is low in calories and high in antioxidant content.

Luckily for Gainesville residents, certified organic berry

Writer Denise Trunk Krigbaum with her daughter Clara, picking berries and enjoying the organic vegetable and blueberry farm.

134 | Summer 2011

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Summer 2011 | 135

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Typical U-PICK season starts in late May, with hours from 8:30 am to 1 pm. Call 352-468-2205 for special arrangements. Cash, only.

Call to confirm current availability and hours; every day from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., starting mid-May and continuing until blueberries are finished. Payment: Cash, only.

Maid Marian’s Blueberries Case Farms 1917 NW 102 Place, Gainesville, FL 32653 352-375-4472 ronaldcase@hotmail.com Crops are usually available in May, June, July. Usually open Memorial Day through first week of July. Call for days and times open. Cash, only.

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Open mid-June to mid-July; May have special activities for kids. Call for info on days, hours and events.

Parrish Family Farm

High Springs Orchard & Bakery 10804 NW State Road 45, High Springs, FL 32643 352-222-1343. Fax: 386-454-0800 jenny@highspringsorchard.com Call for U-pick hours, days, prices. Typically May-July. Cash, only.

13329 N State Road, Gainesville, FL 32653 352-371-1957 Open Saturdays 8a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. or until picked. Cash, only.

Southland Berry Plantation CR 1469, Earleton, FL. 352-468-2087

Melrose Organic Blueberries

Typically available May to July.

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Stratton’s Blueberries - Blueberries

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Open May - July, 10am - dark.

Monteocha Gardens 1425 NW 156th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609 352-485-1930 or 352-485-3523 Call ahead for open hours, days.

Meg’s U Pick Blueberries 5716 NW 93rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32653 352-338-0333 Call to confirm opening dates and times: Opens early June from 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., 7 days. Cash only.

136 | Summer 2011

17228 NE County Rd 1471, Waldo, FL 32694 352-468-3387

Wellborn Farms 10101 Sw 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32607 wellbornfarms@aol.com Open starting early June, Monday through Friday 6pm to dusk; Saturday Noon to dusk; Sunday 8am to dusk. Cash, only. E-mail first to check the fruit is ripe.

Santa Fe Berry Farm Lake Santa Fe, Earleton, FL 352-468-1790 Open: 8 am to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

farms dot the area. There are even more farms that follow organic principles but are not yet certified in the area. Even more encouraging news for those who like fresh, sweet blueberries, blueberry muffins, blueberry pancakes, blueberry jam, blueberry streusel coffecake, etc: blueberry season has arrived. Depending on the variety of the bushes, blueberries ripen from mid-May until sometime in July.

According to Men’s Health magazine, blueberries have soluble fiber that helps ward off hunger pangs. One of the most healthful foods you can eat, blueberries actually top nearly 40 fruits and vegetables in ratings of antioxidant levels.

Collecting berries feels as healthy for the mind as eating them is for the body. Everything about the slow saunter down the lane lined with bushes, the occasional test of the berries to see if the fruit is sweet and ready for picking, feels natural — what we huntergatherers were born to do. In the fresh morning air, running fingers over branches, leaves, bunches of fruit, while fingers gently urge plump ripe fruit to fall into an open palm or bucket, leaving behind berries tinged with green or red to spend more time in the sun and wind, then moving on, is both relaxing and invigorating at the same time.

Jeff Popowski, the nurse by day, organic farmer the rest of the time who owns and runs Melrose Organic Blueberries, knows the feeling.

“It’s healthy picking,” he said. “There is always an abundance of berries here.”

Economics has played a role in guiding Popowski to go organic. When he bought the 13.5-acre farm in 1998, it came with an established six-acre blueberry grove that had been planted in the rabbiteye variety some 30 years before.

At the time, rabbiteye was the primary type of blueberry grown in the region. Florida growers who planted rabbiteye once had the earliest ripening berries in the nation, ripening in June. University of Florida agriculture researchers since developed highbush varieties that ripen in May. When many farms planted the new variety it decreased demand for his rabbiteye berries. Popowski figured the best way to stay in business to compete with all the earlier ripening varieties was to farm organically. He said his fruit is superior to newer varieties.

“When they genetically change it, they lose something,” Popowski said. “Ninety-nine percent of the time what they lose is taste. I have the sweetest, best-tasting berries.”

His farm is open to U-pick around June 15, priced about $3.50 a pound.

There are other organic farms in and around Gainesville that grow and sell both variety of U-pick blueberries. Find one you like from the list below, call to confirm availability of fruit and picking hours, visit Gainesville area organic farm, and get the blues. s

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>> [SUBJECT TAG]

Defined by Water

PHOTO BY JOHN MORAN

Florida’s Eden Takes on the Plight of the Springs

142 | Summer 2011

>> CONSERVATION

“Water is life. It’s the briny broth of our origins, the pounding circulatory system of the world, a precarious molecular edge on which we survive. It makes up two-thirds of our bodies, just like the map of the world; our vital fluids are saline, like the ocean.

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

— Barbara Kingsolver, “Water is Life” National Geographic.

BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON White Springs has disappeared.

Fanning Springs is following in its footsteps.

The Ichetucknee River is being contaminated by pollutants and nitrates.

Florida’s springs are dying. orth Florida, an area blessed with an abundance of fresh water, may soon face a future without the lazy Ichetucknee River or without the crystalline Fanning Springs. But the worst part is that the springs portray the “canary in the coal mine” for the Floridan aquifer, and what happens to the springs could soon happen to Florida’s drinking water, said Annie Pais, executive director of Florida’s Eden.

Florida’s Eden, a non-profit organization, was created ten years ago when a group of people — naturalists, scientists, artists — realized that the springs, North Florida’s defining characteristic, were in jeopardy.

PHOTO BY JOHN MORAN

N

“Florida’s Eden uses the power of arts and culture, and the dual assets of our natural environment and creative population, to unite the people of North Florida so that together we can address our most profound educational, economic and environmental challenges,” states the Florida’s Eden website.

In Florida, Pais said, the people have to do something to save their natural resource. Florida’s Eden works to educate people, showing them how they can help and get involved. Pais was adamant about the community standing up to local authorities, and voicing a concern for what is best for the environment and for everyone in the world.

“It’s all about water here,” Pais said.

In Florida, there is no protection program for the springs. But Pais said when Florida’s Eden surveyed people in the 30 counties that comprise the organization, residents were under the impression that the springs are protected.

“Water is a finite resource,” Pais said. In fact, the

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Summer 2011 | 143

Lawns account for a majority of home water use in Florida. Too much water wastes a precious resource, but also causes run-off of nutrients that is destroying the water quality of our springs, rivers and estuaries.

Dramatically reduce water usage by following the recommended watering schedules for your type of lawn, changing over to Florida Friendly plants and installing rain barrels to capture rainwater from your roof. Eliminate fertilizer use by using different plant varieties and recycling kitchen scraps. Fertilizers leach into the ground water and run into springs and streams. Fertilizers are the single largest source of pollution dramatically reducing water quality in Florida’s springs and destroying the life cycle of Florida’s waterways.

water that the world drinks today is the same water the dinosaurs splashed in when they roamed the Earth. The water that is wasted, such as when it is diverted into the sea, is simply wasted. Only one percent of the world’s water is fresh water available for drinking.

Pais said that water is a resource that should be valued more than gold or oil.

“Many people predict that water will be the resource that people have wars over,” she said. Once it is gone, the world cannot make more fresh water — at least not without consequence.

Conservation, Pais said, should come before the government’s hasty effort to build factories to convert salt water into fresh water.

Florida’s tourism industry, that which does not involve the Disney theme parks, involves a water culture.

“Our tourism industry depends upon people coming here and experiencing nature — we’re all about water here, “Pais said. “Healthy springs. Healthy beaches.”

But on a positive note, Pais believes Florida can have it all. She thinks through citizen choices and government action

Florida can become the model for an environmentally friendly state. She said that a healthy environment brings a healthy economy, which means more people and more business.

“There’s enough water to go around if we’re just smart about how we use it,” Pais said.

The Blue Path, a plan connected with Florida’s Eden, only bigger, has developed a mission to engage all Floridians, and educate them on the value of water and how to live with it. From August 2010 to February 2011, the Florida Museum of Natural History set up an exhibit titled, “The Blue Path: Protecting Florida’s springs.” The exhibit, according to the museum and to Pais, was one of the museum’s most popular exhibits.

Pais said that the museum moved their entire schedule around to present this exhibit because it realized that Florida’s fresh water was in crisis.

“This is a time-sensitive issue,” Pais said. In fact, she believes that if the region does not make a profound change in the way people live in the next three years, the springs and Florida’s aquifers

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WAYS TO CONSERVE Install water-saving devices on faucets and showerheads. Take shorter showers. When filling the tub, don’t let water run down the drain while waiting for it to get hot.

Turning off the water while brushing your teeth can save a family 5 to 10 gallons per day.

To conserve water in the kitchen, don’t let faucets run for washing or rinsing. Instead, fill a container with water or use the sink by plugging the drain.

PHOTO BY JOHN MORAN

“I have stood on the banks of the Ichetucknee and I have grieved for my loss — our loss — as I consider with each passing year that my collection of springs photographs seems less a reflection of the real Florida, than a catalog of what once was,” said John Moran.

These words were displayed next to side-by-side images of the Itchtucknee River. The first one (left), taken in 1995, is a healthy spring, full of life. The second photo, taken in 2006 (previous page) reflects the degradation to the water clarity and health of the native aquatic plants.

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Summer 2011 | 145

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will be too far gone for it to matter.

Florida’s Eden printed 30,000 copies of a program on the region, which it distributed at the museum during the exhibit. The guide listed all of the springs in the area, as well as springs work and restoration groups.

Pais called it a “one-stop shop” where someone looking to volunteer or donate could find more than 100 places to contribute.

The Blue Path has a bigger plan than museum exhibits. Florida’s Eden and The Blue Path want to create a traveling show by renting or buying a tractortrailer and converting it into an exhibit — a springs experience. The trailer exhibit will instruct visitors through hands-on activities. Then, they will take it to where the people are — festivals, downtown areas — and engage the community, the mainstream Floridians.

“We need to go to Jacksonville first,” Pais said.

“Jacksonville is taking so much water out of the aquifer that it is now taking water out of the Ichetucknee River.”

The Ichetucknee River has decreased 20 to 25 percent.

“Some people say ‘let’s tap the rivers,’” Pais said. “But the water is all connected underground.”

The ground beneath all of Florida forms a Swisscheese type topography, which allows the water to percolate easily through the layers.

Florida is over-tapping the aquifer and not recharging it. White Springs has disappeared. Fanning springs has fallen from a first-magnitude spring to a secondmagnitude spring. (A first-magnitude spring discharges at least 100 cubic feet of water per second or about 64.6 million gallons per day.)

“They say it will never be a first-magnitude spring again,” Pais said.

Pais believes that the people in Jacksonville, and the public in general, have no idea what is going on with the springs. She said that the government is not taking the initiative to instruct them or to change state policy.

“We have reached the tipping point, beyond which our rivers and springs can no longer absorb the impact of our pollutants and remain healthy,” said John Moran, a landscape and wildlife photographer who focuses on Florida’s waters, such as the springs.

“I am stunned by the indifference of so many of our political leaders to the reality of this loss. When it comes to springs protection, denial runs like a river through our Florida legislature.”

Florida is an agriculture state. Pais said the government could be providing subsidies to the farmers to ensure environmentally friendly practices are being used in Florida farms. More than half of the crop production is sod, she said.

Sod is not a plant native to Florida, so growing it is very wasteful and harmful to the environment. It requires too much water, too much fertilizer and too much pesticide.

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“We’re fertilizing our sod yards. We’re over-watering them with water we can’t afford to take out of the aquifer,” Pais said.

Between lowering the water levels of the springs and polluting them with fertilizer-tainted runoff, the springs are becoming unbalanced. Because of the high nitrate levels, native eelgrass is being suffocated.

“Here we have our personal drinking water and we are fouling it. To do what?” Pais said. “To grow sod.”

But Florida’s Eden and The Blue Path think there is a way to turn it all around. Pais said the community can make a difference by making simple, profound choices.

That is all it takes.

Pais said there are a lot of ways to help. Anyone can join Florida’s Eden for $20 a year. It currently has about 700 members.

“But we should really have a million members. What would that be like?” Pais said. “It would be fabulous.”

Everything starts with education. Pais believes our education system needs to be reformed so that children grow up as advocates who can command the well-being of our state economy and argue for doing things in a green way.

The Blue Path, and its future traveling exhibit, is working to teach the community what it can do. Homes should collect water in large cisterns to use during the drier seasons, which seems to be almost non-existent in Florida. In other parts of the world, like Australia,

every house is built with a water-catching system.

Communities should reuse water. Yards can be watered using gray water. Right now, many people water their lawns with water treated for drinking purposes. Pais believes that this water should only be used for drinking or bathing, where the water comes into direct bodily contact.

Cities need to work to recharge the aquifer. In some areas, water is being wasted. For example, Jacksonville dumps some used water into the St. Johns River and it runs out to sea. That water is gone, when it should have been put back in the aquifer.

Sand ridge areas are the aquifers natural recharge basins.

“Every sand ridge that we displace with concrete — that’s a whole recharge area that we take away from the aquifer,” Pais said.

And the word needs to be spread. Pais wants to put up billboards: “Are we going to have sod or are we going to have springs? Because that’s what it is coming down to.” However, right now Florida’s Eden does not have the money to designate for billboards. The organization is trying to raise funds for its traveling exhibit.

In the Blue Path exhibit at the Florida Museum of Natural History, Moran had two pictures side by side.

They depict the same spot in the springs taken several years apart. In the first photo, the spring is a vibrant blue, with healthy eelgrass spiraling in the current; a photo

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full of life. In the second photo, the life is gone. The water has lost its blueness and the eelgrass has died.

Pais said people would see this photo and they would cry. They would be horrified when they made the connection and realized that everyone is playing a part in killing the springs.

“We’re fertilizing our sod yards.

We’re over-watering them with water we can’t afford to take out of the aquifer.”

“You do not need to be a scientist to see that we are polluting our springs,” Moran said.

Pais said that Robert Knight, a scientist who works with Florida’s Eden, described the community as having a pioneer mentality about water. The pioneers never imagined running out of any of their resources.

Floridians still have this mentality about water.

“We are very spoiled here,” Pais said. “We have huge amounts of water to waste. Jumping in a spring, fishing, and all kinds of aqua-culture, we are defined by water

here. And we have totally taken it for granted.”

But just like the problem, everyone is connected in the solution, Pais said. Like the underground waterways, everyone is connected.

Towns in the Florida’s Eden boundaries are already working toward conservation and protection. Cedar Key took all of the residents off of septic tanks. Everyone is on city sewage.

Sarasota County has lowered usage per person over the years. According to the Sarasota County Government website, the county has lowered its water usage to 88 gallons per person a day. This is the lowest water consumption rate in the region, according to the website.

Rinker Hall on the University of Florida campus serves 1,000 people per day, yet it uses less potable water than an average home, states the Florida’s Eden scenic guide.

The first thing The Blue Path noticed when examining this region is that in the latitude on the world map, North Florida is very unusual. Nearly every other location is a desert region.

“We’re this water-rich little place,” Pais said. “And we should build the economy around that.” s For more information or to donate to the cause, visit: floridaseden.org.

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>> THE FUTURE IS NOW. SORTA.

Are Electr Here to St

BY AMANDA DA WILLIAMSON he first Volt pulled into Gainesville as a show car at Palm Chevrolet. Rick Davis Jr. purchased the vehicle from a dealer in California where the model is already available for customers to buy. He hopes to inspire people’s interest in the

T

152 | Summer 2011

new electric car before it is on the market. However, this Volt is for sale.

The car is expected to be available in the Southeast region mid-September for 2012 models.

The Volt is currently available in California, New York, Michigan, Texas, New Jersey, Washington D.C.

and Connecticut.

The Nissan LEAF (“Leading, Environmentally Friendly, Affordable, Family Car”) is also expected to be available nationwide in the second half of the year.

Gainesville Nissan hopes to get a LEAF sometime this summer.

ctric Cars Stay?

The Chevrolet Volt is here. The Nissan LEAF is coming. Ford, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes and Audi are all working on their own versions of the electric car. Is it safe to say the future of electric cars has arrived? Not quite yet.

Christi Malamatos, a GM trainer, said the Volt hopes to target the average consumer. By taking away the range anxiety, which is the fear that the driver could run out of battery power before reaching the intended destination, Malamatos said the Volt could function as the

only car in a household.

“To understand why the Volt could be so important to two oncedominant institutions that have hit hard times — General Motors and the United States — all you need to do is visit your nearest gas station, where a gallon of unleaded now

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costs an average of $3.64,” states an article on Time.com entitled, “The Chevy Volt: GM’s Huge Bet on the Electric Car.” “We’re spending around $700 billion a year to import oil, with much of that money being shipped to countries that don’t like us very much.”

Summer 2011 | 153

The base price for the Volt is $41,000. The LEAF starts at $33,630. But both vehicles come with a $7,500 tax credit from the government. At this time, the credit is available for the first 500,000 vehicles sold per manufacturer. Fueleconomy.gov, the government website for fuel economy information, states that the phase out date for the Volt and the Leaf has not yet been announced. The amount of money provided to the consumer for a tax credit depends on the capacity of the battery to power the car.

Ken Wagener, a professor of chemistry at the University of Florida, said if the tax credit disappears before the vehicles are available to purchase in Florida, then the cars would become out of price range for many Americans.

Both vehicles average $1.50 per day in electricity cost.

Tim Swazey, floor manager at Nissan, said the LEAF averages $561 in electrical cost per year. In comparison,

the average fuel cost for the Nissan Maxima is $1,911 per year at $2.88 a gallon.

The Chevrolet Volt is GM’s first attempt at an electric vehicle since the EV1 failed in the 1990s. Purchasers of the EV1 suffered from something that has come to be labeled range anxiety.

The Nissan LEAF runs the same way the EV1 did. But, the “Volt combines the efficiency of an electric car with the long-range capabilities of a traditional gasoline vehicle,” states the brochure by General Motors on the Volt.

Swazey, of Nissan, feels that the LEAF could be functional for the average city-dweller because it has an expected range of 100 miles. He said he could see himself driving a LEAF in the future because of his close proximity to work.

“People don’t realize how inconvenient it is to stop for gas,” Swazey said. Gas, he said, is approaching $4 a

But both vehicles come with a $7,500 tax credit from the government. The credit is available for the first 500,000 vehicles sold per manufacturer.

154 | Summer 2011

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The Volt sits inside the showroom at Palm Gainesville, the local Chevrolet dealership. Recently, Palm Gainesville loaned the vehicle to Loften High School's automotive technology students.

gallon, and the LEAF can get approximately 100 miles on one charge without ever requiring the driver to put fuel into a gas tank.

The Volt requires the driver to put gasoline into the 9.3-gallon gas tank to run the vehicle. The gas powers a back-up generator that will activate and run the vehicle once the battery charge runs out. The Volt’s lithium ion battery is expected to last for 40-60 miles before the charge runs out.

The range and environmental impact of the Volt depends on the driving habits of the consumer, said John Parker, sales consultant at Palm Chevrolet. The Volt has three different driving modes for optimum performance: sports, mountain and normal mode.

Outside conditions also affect both the Volt and the LEAF’s battery charge. The Volt’s battery has a cooling mechanism around the battery, and the LEAF’s battery is air-cooled. Extreme weather conditions lower the

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ability of the batteries to keep a charge.

Both the Volt and the LEAF come with an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.

“It’s really battery technology that has allowed for advancements in the electric car business,” Malamatos said. “In eight years, there’s really no telling where battery technology will be.”

Both the batteries can be charged on 110 volts or 220 volts. The Volt takes 10 hours to fully charge on 110 volts and 4 hours on 220 volts.

In comparison, the LEAF takes 20 hours on 110 volts and 7 hours on 220 volts.

However, the battery is bigger in the LEAF to accommodate the longer range and the lack of a gas backup.

Both cars come with a 110-volt charger; a 220-volt charger can be purchased and installed at the home.

A fast-charging station that will charge the LEAF in 30 minutes is also available, but according to Gainesville Nissan staff, the charger will not be available for the average consumer. Instead, it will be installed at shopping plazas and other such areas so that owners can

charge their vehicle while inside.

And both vehicles are comfortable and sizable. Jesse Hobbs, a sale consultant at Gainesville Nissan, said that the LEAF is a roomy compact car and very easy to park. Wagener, who is considering purchasing the Volt in the future, said it does not have much luggage space.

However, Wagener said if one considers the purpose of the Volt, which is to be a city car, the fact that it does not have much luggage space might not be an issue.

Researchers found that hybrid vehicles had to be around 65 percent closer to someone than a car with a petrol engine before the person could judge the direction correctly.

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Rick Davis Sr., service manager at Palm Gainesville, feels differently.

“Basically, you can get in this car and drive it across the USA,” he said.

He has inspected the Volt and was thoroughly impressed by the design of the vehicle.

“I’ve been under the hood. I’ve looked at the features,” he said. “I’m not predicting any problems with it.”

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He said people are always looking for the bugs to show up in new technology, and Malamatos said the Volt and the LEAF consist of technology that has been around for a while.

“This isn’t new technology,” she said. “The combination may be a new idea, but both of them have been around for a long time.”

In fact, the first electric vehicle is credited to Scottish inventor Robert Anderson. It was a carriage powered by non-rechargeable primary cells, which are batteries where the electrochemical reaction is not reversible. For example, the common disposable battery is a non-rechargeable primary cell.

Malamatos said the main purpose for the construction of the Volt was to build a vehicle that was environmentally friendly because people feel better about themselves when driving such a car.

Most people are shocked about how quiet the Volt really is, she said.

Scott Mills, sales manager at Palm Gainesville, said, “If every car sounded like the Volt, how much nicer would it be to be on the roadway?”

The same goes for the LEAF. The cars are so quiet that the LEAF has a speaker that creates the sound of the engine to alert people of its presence. The speaker was installed as a safety precaution, Swazey said.

In the article, “The Sound of Silence,” published by “The Economist,” staff at the University of California

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have research that suggests the lack of the engine’s roar in electric vehicles can be dangerous for pedestrians.

“The researchers found that the hybrid vehicles had to be around 65 percent closer to someone than a car with a petrol engine before the person could judge the direction correctly,” states the article.

They also found that people prefer the electric vehicles to make the sounds of a normal car, instead of beeping.

Jan Walker, comptroller at Palm Gainesville, said she does not see herself driving the Volt because in her mind, she is not ready to downsize. She currently drives the Chevrolet Tahoe, an SUV. She feels that to adjust to going electric people have to have a certain mindset.

“People should say, ‘I’m going to go buy a car today and it’s going to be electric,’” she said.

Wagener feels that people will move toward electric vehicles because of the rising cost of oil.

“Back then, oil was still cheap and people responded to their pocketbooks first,” he said of the 1990s, when the EV1 came out. “And that’s not the case today. I don’t think we will ever see cheap oil again.”

The use of electric cars in daily life is a long-term experiment, he said. Sometimes they work and sometimes they do not work.

“It’s certainly changing times in the automobile industry,” Wagener said. s

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COLUMN >> JESSICA CHAPMAN

Adventures in Appetite “Oh, dear Lord,” I muttered to myself as I pulled into an old auto parts warehouse. his was supposed to be a restaurant — and a nice one at that. I was at least sure it was a restaurant; from the parking lot I could see a large patio with tables. But it sure didn’t look like your typical restaurant.

When I took the assignment do a review on The Warehouse Restaurant and Lounge, I had heard the owner had transformed his old auto parts warehouse into a restaurant, but I still was not expecting this.

Located in downtown Gainesville just past Milam Funeral Home toward Depot Avenue, this year-old establishment is a fine dinning restaurant and lounge, and I had heard it is very good. I decided to try it for dinner, which is served from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. Lunch is also served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Here goes nothing,” I told myself as I walked in.

I was instantly reminded not to judge a book by its cover. The place was spacious and a little fancy, a complete 180 from what I saw on the outside. As I was escorted to one of the many tables lining the windows, I simply stared, flabbergasted.

Along with the dramatic difference from the outside,

T

160 | Summer 2011

the place is very spacious, providing ample room for all the customers with a quiet yet buzzing atmosphere.

I had the chance to look at the lunch and dinner menu online earlier that day, and I was slightly worried about my choices. This was turning out to be a dinner of adventure; the Warehouse Restaurant and Lounge, I realized, is like none other in Gainesville.

The menu is very different from anything common in the local restaurants. It was like home-cooked meets classy meets fancy. There were many fish entrees, as well as duck, steak, pork and chicken. There were also

M

PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

lots of appetizers, soups and salads. I was surprised at the effort they took to make sure vegetarians had plenty of options, too, all of which were clearly indicated.

Michelle, my waitress (who, by the way, was also one of the best servers I’ve ever had) said her favorite items were the Duck Pepper-Pot Stew served over coconut jasmine rice, sweet potatoes, onions and peppers ($15) or the Grilled Flank Steak and Snow Crab Mac n’ Cheese ($13).

I opted for the duck. I had never had duck, and I was,

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PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

I usually do not like curry because of the spicy flavor, but the coconut, jasmine and curry blended together made a distinctly curry yet unobtrusive taste. And duck, I discovered, is delicious. yet again, slightly nervous. (See? A night of exciting adventures at the Warehouse.)

The food was very diverse. I could not pinpoint a specific style or specialty. It was a nice change from what can sometimes become Gainesville’s usual sameold-same-old restaurant choices.

Having been served water, which was brought out when I first sat down, and bread, also brought out promptly and was delicious with a yummy dipping

162 | Summer 2011

sauce, I had plenty of time to observe the interior.

The red floor complemented the black tablecloths and beige walls. The few paintings added a subtle vibration to the room. The bar was in the center of the back wall, toward the lounge.

The lounge was a relatively large room, and on this night they had a reggae band. A pianist plays on occasion.

I was impressed with the service. I never once had to ask for anything, and Michelle frequently checked back with me.

The duck was not what I was expecting, either. It had a sweet curry taste. I usually do not like curry because of the spicy flavor, but the coconut, jasmine and curry blended together made a distinctly curry yet unobtrusive taste. And duck, I discovered, is delicious. It was the best meat I’ve had in a long while, maybe ever. I was a little taken aback by the hot pink and purple sweet potatoes, but those were good too.

I actually had a difficult time deciding what I would get (shocker, I’m sure). Everything looked really good. I will warn, though — this is not a place for picky eaters. There was nothing as typical as chicken tenders or hamburgers. It was all fine dining and not kid-friendly.

But that is what made this place exciting and lovable. While it is different, it is not that different. In fact, everything on the menu was traditional items mixed with new and different flavors, cheeses and spices. It was a very welcoming and scrumptious, and I have no doubt everything on the menu was equally as good.

The Warehouse is an ideal place for a dinner for two, but it could also easily accommodate medium-to-large dinner parties. It is, however, a planned dinner date.

This isn’t a place you just go to on the fly; it is somewhere you go intentionally.

The Warehouse was unlike any other restaurant I had tried in Gainesville. It was elegant yet laid back and down-to-earth and a much-needed addition to Gainesville. The drastic difference from outside to inside, the delicious food, warm service and friendly atmosphere easily made this new restaurant not only a delightfully fun night out but also a must try.

The Warehouse is — in my opinion — one of the best restaurants in town; one of Gainesville’s finest. s

Your oral health is connected to many other health conditions beyond your mouth. Sometimes the first sign of a disease can show up in your mouth. In other cases, infections in your mouth, such as gum disease, can cause problems in other areas of your body.

The Altschuler Periodontic and Implant Center is Gainesville’s family-based, high-technology practice dedicated to providing the highest quality periodontal care. We maintain the most advanced procedures, technology and equipment available to ensure that every patient achieves a healthy and beautiful smile.

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Quality Health Care FOR ADULTS, CHILDRENS & FAMILIES Health services included at Archer Family Health Care: • Diagnosis and treatment of illness and injuries • Monitoring of chronic diseases • Prescriptions • Ordering, performing and interpreting diagnostic studies, such as lab work and x-rays

• Medical consultation • Health screening for early detection of chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and cancer • Family planning services

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4400 NW 36th Avenue • Gainesville, FL 32606 352-372-5468 352-373-9178 fax AUTOMOTIVE Ernie’s Southern Offroad ...................81 Santa Fe Ford ........................................171

FINANCIAL / INSURANCE Campus USA Credit Union ...............29 Sunshine State Insurance ................150 SunState Federal Credit Union .......38

MEDICAL / HEALTH 1st Choice Immediate Care ............. 167 Affordable Dentures.......................... 149 Altschuler Periodontic ..................... 163 Angel Reyes, M.D. .................................67 Archer Family Health Care ............. 163 Caretenders ............................................76 Center for Medical Weight Loss... 167 Douglas M. Adel, M.D. .......................150 Florida Skin Cancer & Derm. ............ 71 Gainesville Opticians........................... 57 Home by Choice ...................................46 North Florida Orthotics .....................68 North Florida Woman Care................ 6 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery ....... 50 Palms Medical Group ........................ 133 Samant Dental Group ........................... 11 Solantic Walk-In Urgent Care ..........151 Vishnu Reddy, M.D. .................................7

PETS and VETS Bob’s Compassionate Pet Sitting 107 Eager Pup .............................................. 107 Earth Pets ................................................47 Earth Pets Feed & Garden .............. 164 Flying Fish Pets & Aquatics ............ 80 House Call Vet ..................................... 107 Pampered Paws ................................... 80 Nature Pets Day Spa ...........................47 Vacation Station Pet Resort .......... 107

REAL ESTATE Atrium .......................................................48 Innovative Home Builders................... 4 The Village............................................... 37 Coldwell Banker/MM Parrish ...........115

RETAIL / RECREATION

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Alachua Pawn & Jewelry ................. 170 Beacher’s Lodge ....................................41 Blue Springs ...........................................117 Coin & Jewelry Gallery ..................... 132 Colleen’s Kloset .....................................131 Cootie Coo Creations ........................ 80 Dirty Bar ..................................................127 Enchanted Memories ...........................81 Harn Museum of Art............................89 Hippodrome Theatre ..........................93 Jeannie’s Attic .....................................106 Jewelry Designs by Donna .............. 80 Kids Sports & Fitness Camp ............96 Klaus Fine Jewelry ................................. 9 Lentz House of Time, LLC................ 90 Lighting Gallery.................................... 30 Miracles Maternity ................................97 Museum of Natural History ........91, 97 New Smyrna Beach .............................95 Paddywhack .........................................105 Pawn Pro ................................................ 148 Renaissance Jewelers ........................ 90 Sanders Jewelers.................................... 3 Sapps Pawn, Gun and Archery ..... 166 Silver Springs / Wild Waters ............51 Skate Station Fun Works ........ 96, 104 Surf Station .............................................70 TB Goods ........................................56, 139 Valerie’s Loft Consignment ..............55 West End Golf Club .............................92 Wood You Furniture............................ 75

Alachua Learning Center ...................15 American Academy.............................117 Gainesville Country Day School .... 101 Queen of Peace Academy ..............144 St. Francis High School ....................144 St. Patrick Interparish School ........144

Cash for Cars ........................................ 138 Holy Trinity Episcopal Church........137 My Free Gas .......................................... 138 Outreach for Kids ...............................140

FITNESS and BEAUTY Big Ron’s Yoga College....................105 Charisma for Hair .................................66 LAE Beauty ..............................................41 Mode Salon ................................................2 Spa Royale...............................................33 Star Martial Arts .................................. 147 Swim America of Gainesville ...........96 Threading By Zeba ..............................47

168 | Summer 2011

MISCELLANEOUS

SERVICE A Classic Moment Limousine ...........41 ACT Computer Solutions ...................81 Action ChemDry ...................................113 Affordable Services of Florida .......... 5 Alachua County EPD ........................ 146 AllState Mechanical, Inc................... 156 BBI Construction Management ......117 Big Blue ...................................................157 COX Communications .......................... 8 Creekside Outdoor ............................. 141 DirecTV ................................................... 166 Gainesville Regional Airport .......... 146 Jack’s Small Engine Repair ..............62 Kristen Kozelsky Photographer.... 126 Kurt Johnsen Energy Systems ...... 103 Lotus Studios Photography ............. 22 Mini Maid ...................................................10 Pro Lawn Grounds Maint..........63, 155 Ram Jack ..................................................18 Rosenboom Construction..................31 3-Way Electrical Service Inc. .........100

HOME IMPROVEMENT Amira Builders .......................................131 Carson’s Cabinetry & Design ...........69 Fences & Gates by IMI ........................117 Graetz Construction ............................ 74 Griffis Lumber ......................................100 Heckard Door .......................................... 21 Indigo Green Building Solutions .. 158 Mike Hill Construction ........................63 Overhead Door.................................... 159 R&M Construction ..............................140 Ronald Clark Construction ............. 158 United Rent-All .................................... 133 Whitfield Window & Door ............... 161

RESTAURANT Adams Rib Company ..........................82 Bagel Bakery ..........................................82 Calico Jack’s ...........................................83 Chow Now Food Truck ......................63 Cody’s Original Roadhouse............ 165 Dave’s NY Deli .......................................83 Domino’s Pizza ......................... 17, 19, 96 El Toro ..................................................... 139 Flying Biscuit Café ...............................83 Francesca’s Trattoria ...........................84 Gator Q .....................................................84 Heavenly Ham ........................................35 Mad Hatters Café...................................81 Mamma Mia Pizzeria .........................150 Northwest Grille ....................................84 Piesano’s Stone Fired Pizza .............85 Saboré .......................................................85 Take Away Gourmet ...........................127 Tasty Buddha .................................. 27, 85

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122 >> ITALIAN RIVIERA

Also know as the Gulf of Poets, the Gulf of La Spezia is a little-known secret amongst American tourists, but in its heyday the small gulf attracted the likes of Napoleon, Dante and Benelli, as well as the Shelleys, Lord Byron, Dickens, Woolf and Lawrence. Shown is an old church in Tellaro, near author D. H. Lawrence’s summer home.

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