Ten Things I Love About Gainesville: Anne Williams
10. Devils Millhopper. One of the most beautiful exhibits is right at our fingertips.Years before the ramps, walkways and boardwalks were put into place, I explored this wonder and have many magical memories of digging, climbing and pulling my way out of its grasp. What fun!
9. Diversity. Gainesville offers everything from planned communities, excellent retirement villages, small, intimate neighborhoods tucked between schools and lakes to apartment living. All work well together to retain the small town atmosphere.
8. Excellence in Healthcare. Shands, the V.A., the soon-to -be-missed Alachua General Hospital, North Florida Regional and the UF Veterinary School offer healthcare for people and pets alike.
7. Close Enough. We are within two hours of some of the most breathtaking bodies of water this state has to offer - the serenity of the Gulf of Mexico, the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, pristine, winding river-ways, clear lakes and wetlands replete with the kind of wildlife that defines Florida.
6. Geographical Placement. We have it all! Beautiful wetlands to the south, rolling hills to the north, sand hills abundant with wildlife to the west and beautiful hammock and pine flatwoods to the east.
5. Leonardo’s Pizza. Thank you for providing arguably the best pizza in the southeast. Yum, yum!
4. Tree City, USA. Do we still have that title? If not, we should. The abundance of trees in our community adds an ambiance of soft-summer days, security and home.
3. Small-Town Atmosphere. I so appreciate our lack of multilevel highways and skyscrapers. The Seagle Building and I-75 are enough for me. I love the way Gainesville retains the feel of a small town while it offers so many opportunities.
2. Homecoming Weekend. The University of Florida celebrates homecoming like no other community. For as long as I can remember, everyone in the community began celebrating Homecoming the Monday before the big game. We would ride our bikes around the University to watch the progression of the Homecoming displays in front of the fraternity and sorority houses. School would dismiss early on Friday, and we would all scramble home in order to eat early, so we could go to the parade and later attend Gator Growl (it was free in those days). The big game was on Saturday and there was an excitement in the air, we all wore our Sunday best to the game with a corsage. It was a very special time.
1. All things Gator. Being a huge sports fan and a native Gainesvillian, I bleed orange and blue. A true fan means you support your team even through the tough times, and I remember the lean years well, so I truly appreciate the excellence of all University of Florida sports. “Titletown” may officially belong to Valdosta, but in my heart it belongs to Gainesville.