Gainesville, FL March 2026

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AnnualMEETING

Celebrate the People Behind Our Progress. Join Us at the 2026 Greater Gainesville Chamber Annual Meeting.

At the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, we know a strong economy begins with strong people From grand openings to major milestones, we champion the businesses that power our community

Join regional leaders and changemakers at the premier business luncheon of the year as we spotlight the often-unseen work that drives visible success late nights, innovative solutions, steady mentorship, and everyday excellence.

We’ll honor this year ’ s award recipients, celebrate our outgoing Board Chair, welcome the new incoming Chair, and share key insights from 2025 along with our vision for 2026 and beyond

11 AM - 1PM TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2026 UF

LMS offers an authentic Montessori program from early childhood through high school, adhering to principles and scientific methods for your child’s development.

The elementary learning environment (grades 1-6) fosters independence and focus through individual or small group work, natural lighting, soft colors, and organized, accessible materials. New students quickly adapt to Montessori’s hands-on, interest-driven teaching. The classroom is a vibrant, happy community where students explore, create, and reflect, with teachers offering support and introducing new material as needed. Clear expectations are balanced with openended opportunities, promoting both comfort and inspiration for learning.

Our Secondary Montessori program serves 7th - 10th grade with expansion of grade levels each year.

We integrate rigorous academics with purposeful work, preparing students to become selfconfident, contributing adults. Our approach addresses adolescents’ physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and independence. Beyond challenging their intellect, compassion, diplomacy and collaboration are developed through personally experiencing human and nature interdependence. Students also learn business and entrepreneurship skills through hands-on participation in real economic activity provided by Laniakea’s micro-economy program.

We are accepting 3 new students to join our Secondary program. Students must have a strong work ethic with a positive behavior record.

Home & Design

Home.  So much contained in that little four-letter word that conveys so much and can mean so many different things to everyone.  Home is where the heart is.  It’s our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable. It is meant to be a place of retreat, rest, love, and a shelter from the outside world - a place where you can let your guard down and just be.

Welcome to our March issue where we’re all about Home and Design.  Creating a home that you want to spend all of your time in isn’t easy. The memories that are made within the walls of our home are what last regardless of if our home has the latest trends or if it hasn’t been updated in years. While it is fun to look at beautiful homes and dream about renovations, we all know that the love we share in our homes is truly what matters most.

This month, we had the privilege of connecting with local businesses and individuals who shape this community. Their stories highlight the creativity, resilience, and heart that make this area feel like home. We hope that as you turn these pages, you’ll be inspired to strengthen your connections—whether within your neighborhood, your city, or your own walls.

Many of our readers tell us they hold onto this magazine long after the month on its cover, treasuring it as a piece of home—whether as coffee table art or a source of inspiration. That’s a tradition we’re proud to uphold, and we remain committed to delivering the value you expect each month.

Thank you for welcoming us into your homes. Here’s to making this March a celebration of the spaces and people that matter most.

Happy official first month of Spring, and see you around town!

RYNNI HENDERSON, PUBLISHER

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Rynni Henderson | rynni.henderson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Elizabeth Mueller | elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Tyler Laborde | TJosephLaborde@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Blue Hour Media, Claudia Laabs, Kaelyn Schmidt, Kaelyn Schmidt Design, Sunkissed Properties of Florida, Jamie N Stevens, Jennifer Webb, Shakespeare Animal Fund, Looking Good Suits & More, Naps Happen Photography, Tyler Laborde, Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa & Health Center, Victoria Golden, Sandra Schultz Design, Community Weatherization Coalition, Katie Greenshaw, Jennifer Carr, Alachua County Energy Efficiency Program, Cabi Style with Leza, Leza Mueller, Momentum Rehab & Chiropractic, Dr. Laura McChesney, Rabell Realty, Becky Dee, Susan and Darrell of Spherion Gainesville Florida, Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, Christina Ramos, Touching Hearts at Home Gainesville, City Lifestyle, Rynni Henderson, Corey Amira: Owner Corey Amira Custom Homes, Donna Cohen: Owner Donna Cohen Classic Design, LLC, Edwin Duque, GreatFlorida Insurance of Gainesville, Taylor Noe, Sarah Livingstone, MSW: ARE U Motivated, Henry Mario Valdes Ricardo, Freddie Wehbe Make It Happen, Mi Apá, Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge, The Hippodrome Theater, Michael Eaddy, Mi Apa, Jody and Bruce Dolsberry, Budget Blinds of Gainesville, Mike Shea Photography, Terri Bork, Tristan Ford Frower: Chasing Shadows, Abacus Gal, LLC, Sun Country Dance Theatre, UFPA, UF Basketball & Baseball, Christina Miller Owner/Head of School Millhopper Montessori School, LLC, Vision Birth Center, Margo Dandreano, Gainesville Area Women's Network, Adrienne Stevens, EdD, MBA, Michelle Dorminey.

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn

Are you tired of shaving, waxing, and tweezing body hair?

Ban your unwanted hair permanently with Laser Hair Removal at Gainesville Dermatology Aesthetic Center. Trust your skin to the only dermatologist supervised aesthetic center in our area.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-2: Momentum Rehab and Chiro proudly sponsor a room at Ronald McDonald House for families. 3-4: Art Paws lets dogs paint, enjoy vendors, and support Shakespeare Animal Fund’s lifesaving community mission. 5-6: Happy 10 years! Great celebration! Congratulations to Rabell Realty! 7: Congratulations Susan and Darrell of Spherion Gainesville Florida on your Chamber ribbon cutting!

8-9: Thank you Christina Ramos and Touching Hearts at Home Gainesville for Open House lunch! 10-13: Had an amazing week at Accelerate 2026 - this year’s City Lifestyle annual National conference. 14: Shauna Quirk, Keller Williams Realtor and Leza Mueller, Cabi Stylist at Gainesville Area Women's Network.

It’s Time...

Smile Makeovers

Dental Implants

Reconstructive

Prenatal Care

We follow standard of care for your pregnancy, including labs, ultrasounds, and practice Informed Consent.

Birth

Have your baby how you want, with who you want. Considering waterbirth?

Postpartum

Receive the best postpartum care with your midwives during four scheduled visits, with extra support if needed.

business monthly

Welcome Sunkissed Properties of Florida to Gainesville City Lifestyle.

Sunkissed Properties of Florida is a full-service real estate brokerage proudly serving buyers and sellers throughout North Central Florida. At Sunkissed Properties of Florida, we don’t just help people buy and sell houses—we help them find their place under the sun. Jamie Stevens Realtor/Broker (352) 538-0111.

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Art Paws 2026 Includes Dogs Making Art & Much More

Imagine what fun things your dog could paint at this year’s Art Paws, sponsored by Shakespeare Animal Fund. Festivities include each dog painting its own canvas, many art vendors, a silent auction, and more dog fun. Visit ShakespeareAnimalFund.org for details. Shakespeare helps the most vulnerable in our area—the elderly, disabled, and others with a suffering or dying pet and no access to veterinary care. Support this amazing organization and help our community: Jwebb.shakefund@gmail.com.

Looking Good Suits Brings Elevated Menswear to Gainesville.

Looking Good Suits & More offers expertly tailored menswear for life’s most important occasions, including proms, weddings, and formal events. With a carefully curated selection of suits, tuxedos, and accessories, their team focuses on fit, quality, and timeless style. Personalized service and knowledgeable guidance ensure every client looks sharp, feels confident, and is dressed appropriately for the moment they’re celebrating. (352) 332-3186.

Awarded Florida’s Best Day Spa Three Years Running

Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa & Health Center has been honored with a 2025 Best of Florida Award, recognizing its role as a leading destination for wellness and balance in the Gainesville community for more than 26 years. Known for blending therapeutic practices with modern therapies, the Lotus has redefined relaxation and self-care as part of everyday life. Far Infrared Biomats are included with every therapy, and highly trained, caring therapists are always there for you.

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Spruce Up Your Rental Homes With ACEEP!

ACEEP makes property upgrades easy for landlords. We coordinate with qualified contractors, manage project logistics, and complete up to $15,000 worth of energy upgrades at no cost to you. Items include insulation, windows, HVACs, water heaters, appliances, and more! These improvements reduce tenant turnover, utility bills, and maintenance calls. See if your property qualifies by visiting    www.communityweatherization.org/rental-program-aceep or by calling Katie with the Alachua County Energy Efficiency Program at 352-450-4965

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Birth, Reimagined for Modern Families

Have you considered a birth center for your growing family? Gainesville is now home to Vision Birth Center, a licensed facility offering full prenatal, birth, and postpartum care in a calm, supportive setting. Designed for families seeking an alternative to hospital birth, care is personal, unrushed, and relationship-based. Options include water birth, comprehensive midwifery care, and postpartum support that honors safety, autonomy, and the birth experience itself.

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Cabi Spring 2026: Fresh Sophistication Meets Effortless Everyday Elegance

Spring 2026 celebrates versatile design with breathtaking attention to detail. From bouclé jackets with cat-printed linings to eyelet dresses with scalloped edges, each piece balances polish and playfulness. Think tuxedo-inspired blouses, stretchy barrel jeans, and French terry that mimics tailored trousers. Trending high necklines, sporty stripes, and watercolor florals create endless styling possibilities. Mixed media layers, statement sleeves, and vibrant pops of fuchsia and grass green ensure your wardrobe works hard—beautifully. (352) 359-6023 Leza https://www.cabionline.com/elizabethmueller

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GAWN January Spotlight Winner: Adrienne Stevens, EdD, MBA

Adrienne Stevens, EdD, MBA, recently relocated to Gainesville from New York City and brings a rare blend of arts, science, and strategic leadership. A Juilliardtrained former professional dancer, she later earned advanced degrees from Columbia University, conducting research in women’s health and physiology. Her career spans medical education, pharmaceutical leadership, nonprofit governance, and founding Performing Health. Adrienne now serves Dance Alive National Ballet and seeks mission-driven organizations focused on impact and growth and community leadership.

Gainesville Custom Builds

ARTICLE BY COREY AMIRA: OWNER COREY AMIRA CUSTOM HOMES

Design-build luxury custom homes with elevated craftsmanship, personalized service, and timeless design for discerning Gainesville, Fl clients

Corey Amira Custom Homes specializes in the creation of luxury custom residences tailored to the unique tastes, lifestyles, and expectations of each client. Serving Gainesville, Florida and surrounding communities, the company is focused on high end custom home construction, delivering homes that are both visually striking and thoughtfully designed.

Every project begins with a collaborative, hands-on approach that prioritizes the homeowner’s vision. From concept development through final completion, Corey Amira Custom Homes provides expert guidance on architectural design, premium materials, advanced building systems, and quality finishes. Clear communication, detailed planning, and transparent budgeting ensure a seamless and confident building experience.

Exceptional craftsmanship defines every home. The company partners with skilled artisans,

trusted trades, and top-of-the-line suppliers to execute each detail. Homes are built to the highest standards, blending timeless architectural elements with modern luxury, comfort, and performance well suited to North Central Florida living.

Understanding that a luxury home is a long term investment, Corey Amira Custom Homes integrates energy efficient solutions, intelligent layouts, and durable, high quality materials that enhance both daily living and lasting value. Attention to proportion, flow, and detail ensures each space feels intentional and elevated.

Whether building on a private estate lot or within an established Alachua County neighborhood, Corey Amira is committed to delivering a personalized home that reflects sophistication and quality. Corey Amira Custom Homes proudly serves clients seeking a luxury custom residence defined by integrity, expertise, and uncompromising excellence.

Corey Amira Custom Homes

Shop Local, Love Local, Live Local

BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY, ONE SMALL BUSINESS AT A TIME

Mi Apá: Latin Cafe

Mi Apá /  Authentic Cuban family meals and catering made to gather, share, enjoy. / https://miapalatincafe.com/  / Call (352) 376-7020

The Hippodrome Theater: Flex Passes

The Hippodrome Theater / Gift unforgettable moments: Live theater or cinema with Hippodrome Theatre’s flex passes and gift cards /   thehipp.org / Call (352) 375-4477

Looking Good Suits & More: Upgrade Your Style Game

Looking Good Suits & More / Discover The Latest Trends in Suits and Upgrade Your Style Game /  https://lookinggoodgator.com/ / Call (352) 332-3186

Cabi Style with Leza: Cabi Spring 26: Hostess Benefits 50% OFF

Cabi Style with Leza / Cabi Spring 26  / Hostess Benefits include 50% OFF / Fashion for REAL life!  /  https://www.cabionline.com?pws= elizabethmueller /  Call (352) 359-6023

Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge: Creative and Fresh Sushi

Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge / Try some of the best and most creative sushi with the freshest and finest ingredients! / www.arashiyamagainesville.com  / Call (352) 505-6000

We Got Married At Home

Our first home became a wedding venue and reminded me how much a house holds.

On New Year’s Eve, I stood in my own backyard in High Springs and said “I Do.” What began as my first house quickly became the place where my wife and I started our married life together.

When I bought the home, the backyard was what sold me. It opened into quiet woods with tall oaks, curious squirrels, and the occasional deer. There was even a tree that twisted into the ground in an arch, and I loved knowing that would be my everyday view.

When we decided to get married just two months after I proposed, traditional venues felt expensive and impersonal. We already had a backyard we loved, so we turned it into our venue. That meant renting a cherry picker to clear dead branches, wrapping lights in the trees, moving rocks and dirt, and borrowing and renting tables and chairs. The list of projects felt endless, but it also felt worth it. Every dollar and every hour we poured into that space made our wedding day meaningful and added lasting value to our home.

The day of the wedding was sunny and cold, with our Florida friends bundled in coats round the fire. We had our ceremony at four, dinner under the trees at five, and dancing until midnight. Now, every time I step outside, I can see the people we love gathered there.

ARTICLE BY EDWIN DUQUE:GREATFLORIDA INSURANCE OF GAINESVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR NOE

Your home is so much more than a roof and four walls. It is where you celebrate holidays, raise children, welcome friends, or even host a wedding. It holds memories, milestones, and the things you care about most.

That is why I take home insurance so seriously. I know how much is on the line. If a storm, fire, or accident ever touches your home, I want your policy to be there so your house can keep being the place where your life’s best moments happen. https://gainesville.greatflorida.com/

Design That Tells Stories

Nearly 30 years of timeless, trend-aware interior design rooted in Gainesville and beyond.

Donna Cohen Classic Design, LLC has been designing homes and offices for almost 30 years and continues to stay on the cutting edge of interior design with every client. After professional experience in Paris, the coast of Maine, and Key West, the firm is now deeply embedded in Gainesville, Florida, and surrounding areas.

Whether clients need a one-hour consultation or a full home or office renovation, Donna Cohen Classic Design is committed to creating spaces that feel personal, thoughtful, and timeless. While trends come and go, the ability to engage with current styles while maintaining a sense of lasting appeal sets this firm apart.

One of the most rewarding aspects of interior design is the opportunity to surprise and delight. Unexpected details can elevate an entire project, and a client’s reaction to their completed space is always the ultimate reward.

Each project tells a story, shaped by context, relationships, and creativity. Donna Cohen Classic Design is devoted to creating personal, inspired spaces throughout Gainesville and beyond.

Let us create your story. donna.pcohen@gmail.com 352-870-0321 dcclassicdesign.com

ARTICLE BY DONNA COHEN: OWNER DONNA COHEN CLASSIC DESIGN, LLC

ARTICLE BY SARAH LIVINGSTONE, MSW: ARE U MOTIVATED

Local Focus Creates LastingFlourishment

TRUE GROWTH BEGINS WHEN WE STOP CHASING EVERYTHING AND TEND ONE AREA DEEPLY AND CONSISTENTLY BEFORE EXPANDING OVER TIME SUSTAINABLY.

When we think about flourishing, we often imagine a life where everything improves at once. While inspiring, that idea can quietly lead to exhaustion. Sustainable growth starts locally— not geographically, but intentionally. Localized focus asks us to stop fixing everything and instead choose where to begin.

Burnout rarely affects every part of life equally. It shows up in specific places: headaches, anxiety, mental fog, disconnection, self-doubt, or fading focus. These signals are not failures; they are directions. They point us to the area that needs attention first. Flourishment does not require an overhaul; it requires precision.

Choose one part of your life to manage well. Decide who you want to be in that space and take an inventory of where you stand. Create a goal, then work backward to identify the building blocks that support it. Stabilize the small area before expanding outward. Flourishment is cumulative but is built locally. When one area of concern strengthens, others follow. Localized focus restores energy, clarity, confidence, and momentum.

ARE U Motivated

Flourishment does not happen everywhere at once; choose one area to focus on and improve one small behavior there this week with intention and consistency.

ARTICLE BY HENRY MARIO VALDES RICARDO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FREDDIE WEHBE MAKE IT HAPPEN

Family Meals and Catering crafted to simplify gatherings with fresh Cuban flavors, generous portions, and the comfort of home—any day, any celebration.

Family. Food.

Tradition.

At Mi Apá, food is more than a meal; it’s how families and communities stay connected. Our Family Meals and Catering were designed to simplify your life without sacrificing flavor or tradition. Perfect for busy weeknights or meaningful celebrations, we serve generous portions of authentic Cuban dishes made fresh. From slow-roasted meats and classic sides to homemade desserts, every order delivers comfort and care. Family Meals cover everyday moments, while Catering elevates special occasions—so you can gather, share, and enjoy.

Sophisticated Opulence in Everyday Baths

TIMELESS MATERIALS AND THOUGHTFUL DETAILS

TRANSFORM ROUTINES INTO INDULGENT RITUALS.

ARTICLE BY KAELYN SCHMIDT: PRINCIPAL DESIGNER/CONTRACTOR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUE HOUR MEDIA: CLAUDIA LAABS

Bathrooms may be utilitarian by nature, but thoughtful design proves they can also be fun, expressive, and full of personality. When classic materials meet playful contrast, everyday moments—washing up, getting ready, and unwinding—take on a sense of ease and indulgence.

Scale makes a major impact. Oversized tiles modernize the look by minimizing grout lines and allowing the tile’s veining to shine. Panel detailing and subtle trim reference classic design, but the overall effect feels lighter, fresher, and more architectural—like classic millwork with a polished stone twist. These tailored moments transform marble from traditional to effortlessly current.

Warm metallic finishes bring spaces to life. Throughout the home, brushed brass, soft gold, and subtle nickel each take their turn, adding warmth and glow against crisp white surfaces without competing for attention. Sculptural faucets, refined shower hardware, and elegant tub fillers become functional focal points, proving that even the smallest details matter.

Lighting gets to have some fun, too. Wall sconces act like jewelry for the room, framing mirrors and tubs while casting a soft, flattering glow. Paired with natural light, the mood easily shifts from bright and energizing to calm and spa-like as the day unfolds.

Texture finishes the story. Mosaic tile floors introduce playful pattern underfoot, while warm wood cabinetry, wood flooring, and softly curved mirrors add balance and approachability. Together, these bathrooms feel polished yet personal—designed not just to be seen, but to be lived in and enjoyed every day.

KAELYN SCHMIDT, ASID ALLIED

PRINCIPAL DESIGNER / CONTRACTOR

CONTRACTOR LICENSE #CRC1332971

HTTPS://KAELYNSCHMIDTDESIGN.COM/ CONTINUED >

Budget Blinds of Gainesville is owned by Jody and Bruce Dolsberry, exceeding your window covering needs since opening in 2004.

Discover stylish alternatives for sliding glass doors—from panel track and Smart Drape to energy-efficient cellular and solar shades. Budget Blinds Gainesville offers custom solutions, motorization, and showroom inspiration. Save energy, protect your home, and keep your view. https://budgetblinds.com/Gainesville/

LOOKING GOOD SUITS

Tailored suits and tuxedos designed for prom nights, weddings, and every unforgettable milestone in style.

ARTICLE BY LEZA MUELLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER LABOARDE NAPS HAPPEN

From first impressions to milestone moments, Looking Good Suits delivers tailored style for prom and weddings. Curated suits, tuxedos, and accessories ensure a polished fit, while expert guidance and classics help men feel confident and unforgettable.

Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa Makeover

My spa makeover began a few years ago, working alongside members of our community— creative handymen, local flooring professionals, and a master wallpaper hanger who traveled from St. Augustine. I so appreciated his artistry using bamboo-woven, delicate grass cloths with varied color weaves, calming tones, and subtle designs.

I was deeply involved in painting, planning, and the placement of all furniture and art

pieces, so my personal hard work is stamped throughout the space. After more than 26 years as a Therapeutic Spa and Health Center, my mission has been elevated— to create an elegant, therapeutic place to escape, offering supportive respite and renewal.

That mission continues with Far Infrared Negative Ion Biomats on every treatment bed, a Himalayan Infrared Salt Sauna, Light Therapy, and an exceptional team focused on your health and vitality. I also redesigned the floors to a quiet driftwood finish and added specialty wallpaper designs, further enhancing each room.

There is often a sigh of relief as clients and friends step into a different world—beautifully appointed rooms, each unique, featuring pieces collected from my travels to places like Bali, along with fine art, antiques, and antiquities from my appraisal and gallery work.

With a Balinese yet modern aesthetic, guests sip fruit-infused alkaline mineral water while waiting in inviting spaces such as The Bali Room. Treatment rooms include The Lotus Room, Imperial Lotus Room, Himalayan Salt Far Infrared Sauna Room, Bamboo Room, Water Lily Room, Little Lotus Room, Amethyst Room, Golden Lotus Room, and The Zen Room with a private sauna and specialized health treatments. Upstairs, the Sky Loft offers couples’ massages, group celebrations, pre-wedding relaxation, and yoga classes—each space designed to relax and enchant.

Our highly trained therapists and aestheticians provide custom therapeutic, revitalization, and anti-aging treatments using organic products and modalities. It is time for preventive health and intentional self-care.

www.floatinglotusspa.com 352-378-8125

When Business Feels Like Home

Every home and design professional knows the magic of creating a space where people can breathe, settle in, and feel completely supported. What we don’t talk about as often is how much business owners deserve that same feeling from the inside out.

Many talented designers, builders, and home-service experts spend their days turning visions into reality, yet quietly carry the weight of unclear numbers or financial uncertainty. Not because they’re doing anything wrong, but because passion often takes the lead and the books naturally fall to the background.

But your business deserves structure that feels steady. A financial foundation that supports you the way you support your clients. When your numbers are clear, decisions get lighter, creativity expands, and your confidence has room to return. Clarity isn’t restrictive; it’s freeing. It gives you direction without dimming your artistry.

And while you don’t have to navigate it alone, the real shift begins with permission: permission to understand your numbers, to ask for help when needed, and to build a business that feels just as intentional as the spaces you design.

Because when your financial house feels grounded, your entire business becomes a place where possibility lives— and grows.

Terri Bork is a Profit & Growth strategist at Abacus Gal, LLC. She helps service-based businesses gain clarity, confidence, and sustainable financial success. Connect at 813-358-8386 or  calendly.com/abacusgal

ARTICLE BY TERRI BORK PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISTAN FORD FROWER: CHASING SHADOWS

MARCH 2026

YOUR CERTIFIED MASTER VIKING CRUISE SPECIALIST ™

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A SELECTION OF

MARCH

University Florida Performing Arts

3201 Hull Road PO Box 112750

Gainesville, FL 32611-2750

March 2026 UFPA Events. Purchase Tickets through the link before or contract UFPA at (352) 392-2787.

 Every Travel Advisor is a Certified Master Viking Cruise Specialist™

 Stop by our office on Newberry Road to discuss Viking™ and pick -up our Hard-Cover Coffee Table style book on Viking™

“This isn’t just a trip of a lifetime… it is THE Trip of a Lifetime!” Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt amid the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Explore the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars. Visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Skim the waters of the Nile by traditional felucca. Enjoy the fragrances of Aswan’s spice market. Join our expert Egyptologists on a 12 day cruisetour through Egypt on board our modern Nile ships, owned

3/1 7:30 pm Anthony Trionfo, 3/3 7:30 pm VOCES8, 3/10 & 3/11 7:30 pm bang bang, 3/15 2 pm Jupiter String Quartet, 3/24 7:30 pm Sa Dance Company - RISE, 3/26 7:30 pm Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, 3/28 7:30 pm Tuba Skinny  https://performingarts.ufl.edu/

MARCH

LAST Florida Gator's Men's Home Basketball Game

Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center

Mississippi State Bulldogs versus Florida Gators, 8 pm, March 3rd. Purchase Tickets at  https://floridagators. com/sports/2022/12/15/mens-basketball-single-game-tickets

MARCH

Florida Gators Baseball

Schedule March 2026

Condron Family Ballpark

Purchase single game tickets at: https:// floridagators.com/sports/2025/1/16/ baseball-single-game-tickets

3/3 FAU, 3/4 FAMU, 3/6, 3/7 & 3/8 High Point , 3/10 FSU, 3/13, 3/14 & 3/15 South Carolina, 3/17 Stetson, 3/31 Jacksonville University (JU)

MARCH 1ST

Sun Country Dance Theatre’s 18th Annual Spring Youth Concert

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | 2:30 PM

Featuring the encore performance of Sun Country Dance Theatre’s original story ballet “Hansel & Gretel.” The concert will also showcase a dynamic range of new works by resident and guest choreographers. General Admission, FREE to children ages 17 and under (*Only available through the Box Office – not online), All Others: $20.  Phillips Center Box Office: (352) 392-ARTS Contact  scdancetheatre08@gmail.com

MARCH 6TH - MARCH 22ND

The Hippodrome Theater: Accomplice

25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville, Florida 32601

"Accomplish" by Rupert Holmes presented by the Hippodrome Theatre is running from March 6 to March 22. A witty cocktail of a thriller from the author of The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Curtains, and the iconic Pina Colada song! A true whodunnit where nothing is what it seems. Sexy, suspenseful, delicious, breathless, where skullduggery emerges the winner.  Call (352) 375-4477

MARCH 18TH

Gainesville Area

Women's Network March

Monthly Meeting

625 East University Avenue, Gainesville, Florida | 11:30 AM

Looking for business growth and meaningful connections? GAWN offers networking, speaking opportunities, mentorship, collaboration, and a supportive community of passionate business women.

Join us Wednesday, March 18, 11:30 AM–1:00 PM at Sweetwater Branch Inn. Registration and lunch payment required. Register at gawn.org. Questions? Email info@gawn.org

Greater Gainesville Area

We guide each project from concept to completion, blending innovative design with functional craftsmanship. With a “Quality Over Convenience” mindset, we use premium products and deliver superior service to ensure lasting results.

Christina Miller Owner/Head of School

MillhopperMontessoriSchool ,LLC

Outdoor Spaces for Kids

The family backyard or patio can easily include an area designed for children. Many outside areas include extending the living area and families are gathering there. For young children, the yard can contain areas that are designed for their developmental needs. There are basic elements to include in planning and creating this space.

Access to water is foremost. Children are drawn to water and access allows them to water plants, have a water table for play and exploration, wash vegetables or even shells and, of course, wash their hands.

Tools are important and they should be child size but real and sturdy. A pallet can be used as a place where tools can hang when not in use but are readily available. Small tools and gardening gloves are recommended for a garden. A small raised garden is perfect and doesn’t take up much space.

Consider the 5 senses when designing the space. Flowers can make pops of color, drums and pots and pans can be used to create different sounds. Even wind chimes are welcome and bird feeders to bring in the sounds of birds. Set up a table with different textures and include twigs and rocks and a sand and water bin. A pallet can also be used to set up a sensory wall and different frames of tasks or textures can be mounted. Toy catalogues have many of these items.

Tasting the strawberries, they grow, or touching and smelling herbs adds to the sensory experience.

Throwing bean bags into a hoop can provide gross motor and coordination building as well as some climbing equipment. And last, but not least, is a pretend play area. A pretend area could be a playhouse or a path to move small cars and toys around. Have fun and let your child’s imagination run wild!

https://millhopper.com/

ARTICLE BY

Gainesville’s #1 Jewelry Store.

WHERE FIVE-STAR QUALITY ISN’T A LUXURY. IT’S OUR STANDARD.

Family-owned, forever trusted, and backed by perfect 5-star reviews, Govind & Sons Fine Jewelry stands as Gainesville’s premier destination for exceptional craftsmanship, unbeatable value, and truly unforgettable jewelry.

Every repair is completed in-house by master jewelers. Every engagement ring is custom-designed to transform your dream ring into a breathtaking reality. And every price is guaranteed to beat any competitor—even online— so you always receive the best quality at the best price.

Discover Gainesville’s finest selection of natural & lab-grown diamonds, rare colored gemstones, and luxury fine jewelry. Our GIA certified gemologists & Jewelers will help you choose the perfect gift for life’s most meaningful moments.

Looking for something unlike anything else? We specialize in one-of-a-kind beautiful creations that we promise she’ll never see anywhere else.

We also offer in-house Rolex servicing & jewelry appraisals for complete confidence and peace of mind.

Unmatched quality. Unbeatable prices. Unforgettable experience.

Govind & Sons — Gainesville’s #1 Jeweler. Family-Owned. Forever Trusted.