University of Florida - Tower / Seminole Yearbook (Gainesville, FL)

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college town The University of Florida sits in the town of Gainesville, located about halfway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. With a population of more than 80,000, Gainesville served students as a home away from home while they earned degrees. Some students came from small towns surrounding Gainesville while others moved from larger metropolitan areas. Jessica Long, 3 LS, came from Cape Coral, Fl. two years ago and found that the community rallied around the university. I really like how the town is supportive of the college, she said. Northerners found their way to UF too. Students came from all over, even as far away as New England. Stephen Burkowski, 3 JM, of Westfield, N.J., says Gainesville was smaller and closer nit because the university is the nucleus of the town. Gainesville also off ers students state parks, a botani- cal garden and several lakes. Numerous bars and restau- rants were scattered around the town. Even thought A group of friends enjoy lunch at there weren ' t many neon signs, if you just looked there Cafe Gardens, one of the popular businesses along University Avenue. was always something to do. Outdoor cafes and quiet spots helped students to escape a busy day for a few hours. A shriner and community member takes part in the annual Homecoming parade in October. Residents as well as students marched or made floats for the parade which began at the O ' Connell Center and stretched to Main Street. The UF Plaza houses a number of restaurants and services such as Apartment Hunters. Students freq uently visited shops along University Avenue to buy gator clothing, food or music, among other things. Opening 5

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Students take advantage of nearby laundry and printing facilities in the OF Plaza across from During the day businesses on University Avenue were a quick walk away from campus. A group of area residents tailgate before the game near Florida Field. Students were not the only fans at football games. Local residents came dressed in orange and blue to every football game and filled the north, south and west zone bleachers. 4 Opening

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A member of the band stands at attention during Gator Growl. The band among others performed this pep ralley, said to be the largest run-student pep ralley in the world. A group of friends dance to the music played during a break at Gator Growl. Students and faculty attended this, some to hear the comedians, some to see the skits and others just to take it all in. 6 Opening