Florida Country Magazine - October / November 2022 by Florida Country Magazine

FEATURES

FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 6 • NO. 5

ON THE COVER: A moment in time captured by photographer Amy Justice between a child and animal interacting. Read more on page 54.

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The Schminnow Man Norm Zeigler, Outdoor Writer and Fly Fisher, His Dreams Came True

Florida

Roadtrip Series

Apalachicola’s Fresh Approach Oyster Ban’s Upside: Folks Had to Pivot, Visiting Best of the Big Bend 2

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DEPARTMENTS FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 6 • NO. 5

18 FLORIDA EXCURSIONS

FCM CIRCLE

PENSACOLA INTERSTATE FAIR

A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER

page 48

page 8

COUNTRY ARTISTRY

MEET DEB HERBERT

page 54

HORSIN' AROUND

WILD FLORIDA

MEET KEN CRAFT

SINGING THE BLUES

page 14

page 60

STEEL MAGNOLIAS SALON

STARS & GUITARS

COUNTRY RAP'S SAVANNAH DEXTER

page 18

page 64

CLEWISTON’S FIRST BANK

CROSSWORD

page 22

page 69

FLORIDA CHARM

TRUCKS & TOYS

ST. MARKS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

page 40

HAVE A MUDDY GOOD TIME

page 72

THE CULINARY CRACKER

FIDDLING GHOST OF BOYNTON ISLAND

WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN

page 44

page 76

60 64 4

page 52

PICTURE PERFECT

page 10

THE BRAND

MY BEST FRIEND

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Owner/Publisher Scarlett Redenius Owner/C.E.O. Brad Redenius President Thomas Fifield Vice President Sheila Fifield Editorial Director Katherine Waters Design Director Brian Stromlund Travel Editor Dave Kelly Contributing Writers Dale Cox, Ava Grace, Kym Rouse Holzwart, Dave Kelly, Ben Knowles, Bill LaPlante, Myles Mellor, Scarlett Redenius, Paul Thurman, PhD

Featured Photographers Marlo Kennedy Alleva, Lily Bates, Amy Justice Buie, Chris Coile, Renae DeVine, Amber Favorite, Megan Florence, Heather Hoyt, Nikki Marie, Dave Kelly, Ben Knowles, Jerry Kustich, Rick Kustich, Donny Miley, Kara Peterson, Mike Rehr, Elizabeth Ross, Katherine Ross, Dave Schwerdt For more information about advertising with Florida Country Magazine, or joining our regional sales team, please contact:

239-692-2613 sales@floridacountrymagazine.com For other inquiries contact:

Scarlett Redenius, Publisher 239-600-4783 publisher@floridacountrymagazine.com Published by: Florida Country Publications

PO Box 50989 • Fort Myers, FL 33994 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

facebook.com/floridacountrymagazine FLORIDACOUNTRYMAGAZINE.COM Florida Country magazine is published bi-monthly, copyright 2022, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher. All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Florida Country magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Florida Country magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. Florida Country magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.

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FCM CIRCLE

YOU’RE ALIVE, BE THANKFUL! e are getting closer to a sporadic cool breeze, candy corn and pumpkins, but most of all— giving thanks.

I recently did an interview with Savannah Dexter, an up-and-coming country rap artist. And when I thought I was going to find out more about this hardcore, tough, “what mama don’t know won’t hurt” woman—I certainly did! But I also got to know a woman who is thankful for everything: God, her family, her fiancé, her team, her fans, her opportunities, even the gym, food, her clothes, just waking up today. A real feel-good kind of person— but “mess with nothing she loves or else” (page 64). I’m thankful for all the interesting people I meet who let Florida Country magazine into their lives to share with others. Not only do we get to showcase our great state with the world, but our great people and businesses, too. I’m thankful for people’s talents—such as Deb Herbert, an artist with a contemporary style, adding more life to an already brilliant subject (page 10). I’m also thankful for a different type of artist, one that makes us feel wonderful, a boost of confidence for whatever it might be: Steel Magnolia’s Salon makes me feel like a million

bucks, and all of the staff members love making people feel beautiful (page 18). What about Ken Craft? He’s a man who for many years provided therapeutic experiences to those with special needs. And he’s a man who has dedicated his life to the gentle giant—the Clydesdale horse. It’s a horse breed that often has a very public life. Yet how do they behave so well? You’ll learn more on page 14! From businesses serving their communities for 100 years, to the Norman Zeiglers of the world who are doing amazing things for anglers, we all have much to be thankful for. It doesn’t have to be big or grandiose—just be thankful. It doesn’t matter if it’s being thankful for the fair rolling into town, such as the Pensacola Interstate Fair has since the 1930s (page 48), or being thankful for our terrific state giving us so many wonderful places to explore—just be thankful. And one more thing: a huge, heartfelt thank-you to all of my advertisers, writers, staff members, fabulous readers—and as Savannah Dexter said, just for waking up! Amen! Have a safe Halloween and a wonderful Thanksgiving from all of us at Florida Country magazine. SCARLETT REDENIUS, Publisher

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COUNTRY ARTISTRY

MEET DEB HERBERT ARTIST, ADVOCATE AND BUSINESSWOMAN, HER WILD HORSES ON CANVAS

ild mustangs, racehorses and roundups, only bolder, brighter and more intensely represented in the artwork of Deb Herbert.

Herbert adds more life to an already brilliant subject, using mixed media, acrylics and oils with occasional colored and graphite pencil work. She also uses photography. She studies what she sees, starts sketching and then produces her work, some abstract, others more detailed. “I describe my style as contemporary with an emphasis on capturing the spirit and emotion of my subjects through passionate color and freely rendered form,” says Herbert. Herbert drew and painted early and was always considered the class artist. During high school, she was invited back to her elementary school to teach afternoon art. “As a horse-lover, I was a reader of every horse book I could find,” adds Herbert. Herbert received a faculty scholarship to Florida Atlantic University and was able to test out of the first two years of college. She then entered a fine-arts program and graduated at 20 with a K-12 teaching certification. “I also met my future husband—a BFA/K-12 teacher at FAU—and we married the day after graduation,” says Herbert. She got her first teaching job as a permanent substitute art teacher one month after graduating and was hired full time

with Sarasota County schools, where she taught for over 30 years. “In the midst of that, we had our wonderful daughter, and I did a stint for three years as the director of school and teacher programs at the Ringling Museum ... a wonderful job! My husband and I also took a year off as young teachers and traveled as professional artists for a year with The Master Artists Tour (formerly Artist Touring Association),” says Herbert. When she turned 30, Herbert purchased her first horse, a Morgan/Appaloosa cross named Daisy. “I’ve owned horses ever since! I currently have an off-the-track quarter horse mare KitandCaboodle, my retired dressage AQHA mare Belle (Genuine Arctic Spring), who I competed through third level in Western Dressage, and a feisty mini-horse named Prince Caspian. And we just lost my sweet old gelding Irish, a saddle-bred cross,” says Herbert. Upon retirement, however, Herbert fulfilled a self-promise to focus on art. “That love of creating has become a full-time business as Deb Herbert Art,” says Herbert. Since the Herberts live surrounded by ranches and a stone’s throw from the gorgeous TerraNova Equestrian Center in Myakka City, Florida, and multiple equine facilities, she has ample local material to draw from. She is also often commissioned to paint memorial portraits of beloved pets and performance horses.

Deb Herbert, left, drew and painted early and was always considered the class artist. The retired school teacher had promised to pursue art after a 30-year career.

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OPPOSITE PAGE: TOP PHOTOS COURTESY OF TROY WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY AND LAPIDARY; ALL OTHER PHOTOS THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF DEB HERBERT

Written by: Ava Grace

I DESCRIBE MY STYLE AS CONTEMPORARY WITH AN EMPHASIS ON CAPTURING THE SPIRIT AND EMOTION OF MY SUBJECTS THROUGH PASSIONATE COLOR AND FREELY RENDERED FORM. —Deb Herbert

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COUNTRY ARTISTRY Herbert is also a wild-horse advocate and has developed friendships with excellent wild-horse photographers allowing their photos as references. “With so many wild mustangs being rounded up each year and placed in Bureau of Land Management holding pens to face uncertain fates, I use my wild mustang art to educate and advocate for keeping them free as the American icons that they are,” Herbert says. “I also donate to wild horse advocacy groups and rescues. When I sell specific images from my site of wild horses that were rescued by Skydog (Ranch) Sanctuary, I donate a portion of my proceeds to that wonderful organization. The most famous of those horses being the beloved Blue Zeus and Samson. “To me, our wild horses represent freedom, beauty, courage and devotion to family. I see them as very spiritual creatures and often I refer to scripture about horses when I introduce new work in social media,” says Herbert. In addition to her artistry, Herbert runs her business and website, debherbertart.com, and social media platforms. “For fun, my husband and I might take a ride to breakfast on our motorcycles or explore the countryside on spontaneous ‘photo safaris,’ says Herbert.

ROUNDUP Deborah (Deb) Herbert debherbertart.com Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary skydogranch.org

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PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB HERBERT

Some of her other greatest enjoyment is spending time with her wonderful 3-year-old grandson, KJ, her beautiful daughter, Mollie, and her fantastic husband Byron, owner of Next Level Plumbing. FCM

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HORSIN' AROUND

MEET KEN CRAFT THE CLYDESDALE IMPRINTER, WORKS WITH GENTLE GIANTS

Written by: Kym Rouse Holzwart

lydesdales, draft horses known as gentle giants, are Ken Craft’s passion.

He has been a trainer, driver, rider, showman and educator for years in Florida and throughout the U.S. For 19 years, Ken’s Whispering Pines Clydesdales has operated in Bonita Springs and North Fort Myers. The facility had provided therapeutic experiences to those with special needs. Ken also transported his Clydesdales and carriages, carts and wagons to locations where visitors got rides and learned about Clydesdales. To help keep the facility running, he provided cart, carriage and wagon rides at select events. In addition, Ken is an expert at imprinting Clydesdale foals— his process is described below—and he offers to help you. While imprinting is good for any breed of horse, the process is more common with draft horses that have a future public life or become working horses. Imprinting is intense, specific handling of a foal immediately after birth and up to 6 months. Timing is everything, since horses are born ready to stand and eat and learn rapidly. After a foal’s birth, the first hours shape their behavior; immediate positive contact with humans sets a foal up for a lifetime of partnership and success. Imprinting prepares the horse for future training and ensures it’s much easier, faster and safer.

Imprinting ensures that the foal bonds with humans and establishes a relationship of trust and security, is de-sensitized/sensitized to many things, accepts and submits to humans. Once a strong and healthy delivery of the foal is confirmed— the mare is fine and the foal has received its initial colostrum from nursing—the foal is pinned to the ground for 20-30 minutes on each side. A halter is placed on the foal and is always on when doing imprinting training in the stall or in an open area (for safety, never leave a halter on an unattended foal). The mare has unrestrained access to the foal. After working 20-30 minutes on each side of the foal, allow it up to nurse and to spend time with the mare, then repeat the process. Whenever the foal attempts to get up, it must be dominated and pinned back down—it can only get up when you allow it. While on each side, the entire body of the foal is rubbed with a soft brush for five minutes. After that, the entire body is rubbed with a paper bag and then a plastic bag. That includes the face, ears, legs, genital area and anus. Softly and gently, the face and in and out of the ears, nose, anus and genital area are rubbed with your fingers (save the anus and genital area for last and clean and disinfect your hands after). As you rub the foal, a natural taming response is triggered and the idea that humans are friends and not foes will be reinforced.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF KEN CRAFT

Ken Craft's Whispering Pines Clydesdales has operated for 19 years in Bonita Springs and North Fort Myers. The facility had provided therapeutic experiences to those with special needs.

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While imprinting is good for any breed of horse, the process is more common with draft horses that have a future public life or become working horses. Imprinting is intense, specific handling of a foal immediately after birth and up to 6 months.

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HORSIN' AROUND To get them used to the sound and vibration, clippers are gently run over the entire body, as well as the ears, chin and mouth. Next come the feet: pick up each hoof and tap the bottom 40-50 times with your hand or the sold part of the brush. Over time, slowly work up to applying more pressure. For the first couple of weeks, if time allows, repeat this process for 4-6 hours a day. For maximum results, slowly start decreasing the period you work with the foal after that over many weeks. Make sure you are persistent at each step, and don’t quit before acceptance is achieved. Take your time—don’t move on to the next step until the foal is completely relaxed. Keep in mind that you are establishing yourself as the leader. The foal should respect both you and your space, and do not allow the foal to bite, kick or run into you.

While on each side, the entire body of the foal is rubbed with a soft brush for five minutes. After that, the entire body is rubbed with a paper bag and then a plastic bag.

Ken uses CDs from SpookLess to get foals used to many types of sounds. He prefers the Mounted Horse Patrol Edition that has 60 sounds commonly heard around the farm, in public, at horse shows and at many events.

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If possible, play these CDs 8-16 hours a day for the first 30 days, then 4-8 hours a day for the next four months. After the age of four months, play them periodically. FCM

SpookLess Sound Conditioning, spookless.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF KEN CRAFT

Ken Craft: 239-989-4782, kencraft2019@gmail.com

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THE BRAND

STEEL MAGNOLIAS SALON ‘LOVE MAKING PEOPLE FEEL BEAUTIFUL’

Written by: Ava Grace

t Steel Magnolias Salon, clients get more than an updo for a wedding or a contemporary style for their big date.

That’s because the talented stylists and associates are also experts at listening, caring, bonding, just being there. “I love making people feel beautiful, both inside and out,” says owner and master stylist Michell Vazquez. Salon workers in the 1989 movie “Steel Magnolias” operated as a team and became close friends, with one another and their clients. It is that kind of atmosphere at Steel Magnolias Salon in Fort Myers, which opened in 2004 with stylist and owner Wendy Haines, who has since retired. For more than 17 years this family-run salon has been a place to blow off steam, to relax and enjoy the time

while getting a perfect color, an amazing style, a fabulous manicure/eyebrows or skin treatments. Another perk is wine, coffee, assorted mimosas, beer and wine seltzers. While the Steel Magnolias atmosphere might offer oldfashioned warmth, the colors, styles and manicures are the latest. “Our stylists and nail technicians regularly attend beauty shows and take classes. Educators also come into the salon to teach our staff new things,” adds Vazquez, a Level 5 stylist. The salon now has a licensed esthetician, Lisa Miles, from Naples. Her services include cellulite removal on legs, arms, stomach and neck using a captivation and radio frequency device, dermaplaning for a smoother complexion, micro-blading for enhanced eyebrows and chemical peels and hydro facials.

WE ALWAYS WANT OUR CLIENTS TO LOOK GOOD AND FEEL GOOD, NO MATTER THE OCCASION. —Michell Vazquez, owner and master stylist

Paula Watson

Michell Vazquez

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Beatriz Ortiz

PHOTOS COURTESYOF STEEL MAGNOLIAS SALON

Michell, Beatriz, and Paula are just some of the professional stylists and technicians at Steel Magnolias Salon.

TOP PHOTOS BY SCARLETT REDENIUS; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESYOF STEEL MAGNOLIAS SALON

Stylists and nail technicians regularly attend beauty shows and take classes. Educators also come to the salon to teach new information to staff members.

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THE BRAND Master nail technician Angie Soto knows the newest trends. Soto has been with Steel Magnolias for over 10 years. Nail associate Beatriz Ortiz spends her free time perfecting her craft. The salon staff not only listens carefully to what their clients want but are also eager to find out about the news they bring—photos of their beautiful new grandchild, updates on their wedding plans or an exciting new relationship. Of course, not all news is good, and that’s okay. “We understand,” says Paula Watson, a Level 5 stylist. From pixie cuts to wedges to undercuts to bobs—from blue to silver hair to lowlights and highlights, from gels to French manicures to shimmering polishes, from facials to brow treatments, whether it’s for the big day … or any day—it’s all important at Steel Magnolias Salon. “We always want our clients to look good and feel good, no matter the occasion,” says Vazquez, who has retired but remains part of the Steel Magnolias Salon team. “I still work at the salon a few days a week … and am running it on a daily basis,” she says. FCM

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PHOTO BY SCARLETT REDENIUS

For more than 17 years, this family-run salon has been a place to blow off steam, to relax and enjoy being pampered.

Steel Magnolias Salon, 11841 Palm Beach Blvd. #112, Fort Myers, Florida steelmagsalon.com, FB, Instagram, 239-693-0833

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THE BRAND

CLEWISTON’S FIRST BANK 100 YEARS IN AMERICA’S SWEETEST TOWN

Written by: Bill LaPlante

o survive 100 years in a highly competitive business, a company must have that special something.

are broad and diverse because we develop products to meet our customers’ needs.”

Clewiston-based First Bank has found the sweet spot in the banking business by providing customized, personal service through its seven branches. And their leadership did it in America’s sweetest town, nicknamed for its bustling sugar industry.

Reminding his customers and employees alike, Soud adds: “It’s not just a financial investment [for us], our lives and hearts are here.”

The town is named for A.C. Clewis, a Tampa developer helping form First Bank in 1922. “He saw a need for local businesspeople to help the town flourish,” says current First Bank chair Miller Couse. “If you’re going to borrow money in any of our locations, we want to be involved,” adding, “we understand the unique businesses that flourish in small towns.” First Bank president and CEO Carey Soud outlines the business plan for community success, saying: “Our services

In fact, First Bank has an employee—Nilda Sparks—who has worked at the bank for more than half of its first century. With an employee stock ownership plan in place (employees own about 20 percent of the bank), senior VP and chief lending officer Deborah Van Sickle notes that: “We are truly community owned and operated ... every decision our employees make is for their investment.” First Bank has not shied away from technology either, adding its first automated teller machine nearly 50 years ago, a major computer in 1988 and was on the cutting edge of check imaging in 1994. First Bank’s assets in 1922 were $250,000, or about $4 million in today’s dollars. That figure has soared.

In its 100-year existence, First Bank has not shied away from technology, adding its first automated teller machine nearly 50 years ago, a major computer in 1988 and was on the cutting edge of check imaging in 1994.

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IT’S NOT JUST A FINANCIAL INVESTMENT [FOR US], OUR LIVES AND HEARTS ARE HERE.’

PHOTOSON COURTESY OF FIRST BANK PHOTOS THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF FIRST BANK

—First Bank president and CEO Carey Soud

NEXT 100 YEARS

First Bank’s plans include helping with Airglades International Airport’s state-of-the-art perishable cargo facility for goods that include South American flowers, fruits, vegetables and seafood. “Miami is congested,” chief operating officer and executive vice president Andrew Couse says. “The idea is that they would land the planes here and save time getting the cargo on the road so there’s less spoilage.” That project is nearing the goal line that requires several hundred million dollars invested in the next two or three years, creating scores of jobs. Andrew Couse adds that he is also planning to implement a call center, more convenient F L O R I DAC O U N T RY M AGA Z I N E . C O M

THE BRAND digital experiences for customers and have a succession plan in place for employees. Carey Soud speaks of the bank’s recent dynamic growth, citing, for example, that it took 70 years for First Bank to grow to $100 million in assets. But in the past three years, he adds, “we’ve grown $100 million per year in assets … and are continuing to grow.” This good news portends a bright future for First Bank. It should also make those flowers, fruits, vegetables and fish even fresher as they head through the advanced Airglades International Airport to your dinner tables and flower vases. Nilda Sparks—now vice president of First Bank’s human resources division—can hardly imagine what the next 100 years may bring! FCM

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRST BANK

First Bank’s centennial celebration is November 16 at the Bronson Rodeo Arena, Moore Haven. Food trucks, giveaways and special events are scheduled. Guest speaker is former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee. Details: first1bank.com.

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The Schmi PHOTO COURTESY OF TUCKAMORE LODGE

Zeigler shows an Atlantic salmon caught in Newfoundland, Canada.

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nnow Man NORM ZEIGLER, OUTDOORS WRITER AND FLY FISHER, HIS DREAMS CAME TRUE

BOTTOM MIDDLE PHOTO BY OF DAVE SCHWERDT; BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY JERRY KUSTICH; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORM ZEIGLER

Written by: FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE

or the better part of a half century, if Norm Zeigler were granted one wish about his career, avocation, lifetime passion and North Star of his peripatetic life journey, it would be to spend most of the time where he could fly fish to his heart’s content and still have his family close by. Thanks to hard work and bits of luck both good and bad, his dream has come true.

‘NORM’S CRYSTAL SCHMINNOW’

Zeigler and his wife, freelance editor Libby Grimm, are blessed to own a ranch-style home a six-minute walk from the Gulf shoreline of Sanibel Island, Florida, and a cozy

Victorian with an adjacent log cabin overlooking the Beaverhead River in Dillon, Montana. Recently, Zeigler spent several hours with Florida Country Magazine staff members, sharing his deep and abiding love of fly fishing. A renowned travel/outdoors writer himself, his byline has appeared in myriad publications such as The New York Times, Gray’s Sporting Journal, Fly Fisherman, Fly Rod and Reel, Art of Angling Journal, Sporting Tales Journal, Florida Sportsman, and German and Dutch angling magazines. Yet search for him online and the info that comes up most often is “Norm’s Crystal Schminnow,” his signature fly.

Inset above is "Norm's Crystal Schminnow" fly. Below from left: Zeigler revives a very large Schminnow-caught redfish on the Gulf shoreline of Sanibel; a good-sized seatrout caught using a Schminnow on a flat near Pine Island; a brook trout landed in Montana's Big Hole River.

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Above left, a tarpon falls for a Schminnow, which is also shown at right.

Some of the best flies contain an element of luck in their development and the Schminnow fits this category. The unprepossessing streamer pattern—which Zeigler invented in 1995 for snook—has also caught 71 other species in fresh and salt water, from blowfish to stripers, steelhead and even sailfish. And the Schminnow is not only one of the most effective streamers, it’s also one of the easiest to tie! (Zeigler had never considered himself a particularly top-rated fly tier.)

But I’ve also put the Schminnow to work in places where it wasn’t intended to be used. … to chase skinny-water brown trout in the Rockies, bowfin in the froggy waters of the Southeast and even smallmouth bass on the Snake River … It turns out that flies that imitate baitfish are appealing to any predatory fish that eats baitfish, and that the barrier islands along Florida’s Gulf Coast aren’t the only places where that happens.”

The Schminnow does not match any prey species exactly, but hints at both crustaceans and baitfish, so Zeigler explains it seemed logical to call it a Schminnow—part shrimp and part minnow. He says he used the whimsical Teutonic spelling because of his 15-year career as a journalist living in Germany.

MARSHES, ESTUARIES AND KETTLE-HOLE PONDS

The late Nelson Bryant, outdoors columnist for The New York Times for nearly 40 years, wrote enthusiastically about using the Schminnow. In hatchmag.com in May 2021, Chris Hunt wrote “The Schminnow—‘The Only Fly You Need.’ ” He noted, “The fact that I can easily tie up a couple-dozen Schminnows before I hop a plane to Florida makes this fly my go-to searching pattern when I do arrive and finally get to walk the beaches and hunt for cruising snook.” Hunt said, “I was convinced that the Schminnow was the secret weapon to barrier island surf casting. And I still am.

28 28 FFLLOORRIIDAC DACOOUUNNTTRY RY OOcct toobbeerr || Nove Novemmbbeerr 22002222

Zeigler grew up gauging the seasons by the weather and wildlife on the marshes, estuaries and kettle hole ponds of Cape Cod, and holds a B.A. in English, with a minor in biology, from Clark University in Massachusetts. Before moving to Europe, he traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada. From 1979 to 1994, Zeigler worked as a civilian editor and reporter for Germany-based European Stars and Stripes. He was the paper’s travel/outdoors writer from 1988 to 1994, and his assignments included goose hunting in eastern Germany, chamois hunting in the Bavarian Alps, pheasant hunting in the former Yugoslavia, skiing in Austria, camping throughout Europe, and trout fishing in Scotland, Denmark, Spain, Germany and other places.

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY MIKE REHR; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORM ZEIGLER

ZEIGLER EXPLAINS IT SEEMED LOGICAL TO CALL HIS SIGNATURE FLY A “SCHMINNOW”—PART SHRIMP AND PART MINNOW. HE SAYS HE USED THE WHIMSICAL TEUTONIC SPELLING BECAUSE OF HIS 15-YEAR CAREER AS A JOURNALIST LIVING IN GERMANY.

In 1994, Zeigler and his family relocated to Florida so he could recover from Lyme disease. He’d been bitten by a tick while on assignment in the former Czechoslovakia. Soon after moving to Sanibel, Zeigler realized it’s not necessary to have a boat to enjoy the island’s world-class fly fishing. There are tremendous opportunities from shore and wade fishing in shallow waters. Good angling opportunities exist throughout the year and in most weather and wind conditions. Fly fishing for snook on Sanibel is some of the best in the world.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF STACKPOLE PUBLISHING; TOP MIDDLE PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWN EAST BOOKS; TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF WEST RIVER PUBLISHING; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORM ZEIGLER

“Sight fishing for snook from our beaches during the warm months—May through October—provides one of the greatest thrills in fly fishing,” Zeigler explains. “These magnificent game fish are fast and powerful. They are also spectacular jumpers.”

He adds, “In 2001, I got together with Sanibel friends Dave Ford and Dick White to start the Sanibel Fly Fishers club. We began spreading the word in local media and by word of mouth. The club’s focus was to be meeting new fly fishers, promoting conservation, and education. I insisted we encourage a policy of no secret fishing spots.” The non-profit organization now has more than 100 active members and a community of more than 300 through social media.

NORM ZEIGLER’S FLY, BAIT AND TACKLE SHOP

Angling friends from around the world who visited Sanibel and Captiva would often urge Zeigler to start a fly fishing shop. That prompted him to open Norm Zeigler’s Fly, Bait

Zeigler's books are on different aspects of fishing, including how-to information, memoir/travels, and interviews.

ALONG WITH MAGAZINE AND NEWSPAPER ARTICLES, HE CARVED OUT TIME TO PRESENT LECTURES AT FLY FISHING CLUBS AROUND THE COUNTRY, AND TO WRITE BOOKS. “WRITING ABOUT FLY FISHING,” ZEIGLER SAYS, “IS JUST AS MUCH FUN AS PURSUING IT.” Below, Zeigler married Libby Grimm in 1984 in Copenhagen City Hall. At right, Zeigler is featured in a Stars and Stripes advertisement.

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Top left is Sanibel Fly Fishers club co-founder Dave Ford with a Schminnow-caught redfish. Above left is the late Dr. Harvey Sugerman with a tripletail. Other images show articles by Zeigler, including in a German magazine.

Customers appreciated the wealth of info he generously provided: the free casting lessons when a fly fishing outfit was purchased, the ease of booking fishing guides, the chance to buy Schminnows, and to have Zeigler autograph his books. And like the club, the business encouraged a policy of no secret fishing spots. Zeigler ran the shop until selling it in October 2021, after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Along with magazine and newspaper articles, he carved out time to present lectures at fly fishing clubs around the country, and to write books. “Writing about fly fishing,” he says, “is just as much fun as pursuing it.”

evidence of former royal presence in an emperor’s summer palace a short cast from a well-kept access, the mind ebbs and flows with the tranquility of the waters. And the numinous wonder of fly fishing infuses it all.” In 2006, he released Snook on a Fly: Tackle, Tactics, and Tips for Catching the Great Saltwater Gamefish. Its publisher said Zeigler “introduces the thrills of fly fishing for snook to beginners and provides new insights for experienced snookers … He shares effective techniques for snooking in different seasons and environments, from mangrove estuaries to night fishing to sight fishing along the beaches.”

Rivers of Shadow, Rivers of Sun: A Fly-Fisher’s European Journal was published in 2004. Structured in memoir format, the book portrays the adventures, joys, hardships, and rewards of his 15 years in Europe. Within are Zeigler’s accounts of fly fishing mostly for trout and grayling throughout Europe’s far corners. In his blurb on the back cover, Patrick Hemingway, son of Ernest, wrote: "Norm Zeigler, like Hemingway before him, lays open the Old World for a new generation of American fly fishermen."

Famous Fly Fishers: Profiles of Eminent and Accomplished People Who Love the Quiet Sport debuted in 2017. Byron Stout, former outdoors columnist for The News-Press in Fort Myers, said, “It is a book about why—why take on the challenge of fly fishing. Zeigler explores the quandary with 21 men and women unsurpassed in life achievements. From walking on the moon, to running roughshod over NFL defenses, to playing key roles in running the United States, these overachievers have turned to the way of the fly for its never-ending challenge and— all admit—its healthy doses of humility.”

Zeigler explains, “Along the journey occur savage twists of fate and the universe’s casual indifference to human endeavors. But casting in the shadow of a 14th-century fortress, dapping in a mountain freshet, and seeking

And when it comes to humility, Zeigler remains modest about all his accomplishments. But be sure to let him know if you are the fortunate angler who catches the 73rd species with the Schminnow! FCM

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LOWER LEFT PHOTO BY CHRIS COILE; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORM ZEIGLER

and Tackle Shop in April 2009. Although it was the middle of the Great Recession, business boomed from the beginning.

Sanibel Fly Fishers club member Dee Kelly holds up a redfish.

ROUNDUP

NORM’S CRYSTAL SCHMINNOW MATERIALS:

Hook: Mustad 34007, #2 or Mustad Signature S71SNP-DT, #2 Thread: Flat Waxed Nylon, White Eyes: Plastic Mono Eyes, Black, Large Tail: Marabou, White Body: Pearl White Crystal Chenille

“SIGHT FISHING FOR SNOOK FROM OUR BEACHES DURING THE WARM MONTHS—MAY THROUGH OCTOBER—PROVIDES ONE OF THE GREATEST THRILLS IN FLY FISHING. THESE MAGNIFICENT GAME FISH ARE FAST AND POWERFUL. THEY ARE ALSO SPECTACULAR JUMPERS.”

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF DEE KELLY; BOTTOM PHOTO BY RICK KUSTICH

—Norm Zeigler

Zeigler holds a large snook caught on a Schminnow along the Sanibel Gulf shoreline.

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Apalachicola’s FRESH APPROACH

Oyster Ban’s Upside: Folks Had to Pivot, Visiting Best of the Big Bend Written by: Dave Kelly

or hundreds of years Apalachee Bay has been home to oysters. In fact, 90% of Florida’s oysters have traditionally been harvested from the area, leading to the founding of its namesake town, Apalachicola, in 1831. The oyster industry blossomed quickly, leading to almost 200 years of growth—fishing boats, packinghouses, restaurants and a tourist industry dependent on the succulent bivalves that have made the area so famous today. At the end of 2020, however, continuation of that independent lifestyle was put to a fundamental test. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission placed a ban on the harvesting of oysters out of Apalachicola Bay in Florida’s Big Bend region through the end of 2025, affecting the livelihoods of thousands of residents and the oyster-driven businesses throughout the town. Folks had to pivot, asking themselves: Can we discover new ways to produce revenue while preserving our heritage and image?

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As our trip to the area showed, “Apalach” folks have used creativity, gumption and resourcefulness to answer this question … and are coming out on top.

AW, SHUCKS! Despite the temporary oyster harvesting ban, restaurants in the area still serve up these fresh delicious treats, acquiring them from special “oyster aquaculture” operations, or farms, excluded from the ban. So, when our group hit town, we headed straight to the restaurant that is at the heart of the oyster tradition in the area—Lynn’s Quality Oysters. Lynn’s has deep roots in Franklin County, opening over 50 years ago in the small city of Eastpoint just over the bridge from Apalachicola. Operated as a restaurant and packinghouse until the recent ban, the location combines The Raw Bar at Lynn’s with a local seafood market, serving up fresh-caught local delicacies such as shrimp, crab, scallops and more. But be sure while you are there to slurp up the freshest shucked oysters in town. They are delicious indeed.

PHOTO BY DAVE KELLY

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission banned oyster harvesting out of Apalachicola Bay in Florida’s Big Bend region through 2025. St George Island (pictured) forms the southern barrier of Apalachicola Bay.

Florida

Roadtrip Series

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY DAVE KELLY; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ZIMMERMAN AGENCY

Clockwise from top left: Lynn's Quality Oysters has served its visitors for over 50 years, the Coombs Inn is actually three separate historic buildings, the Water Street Hotel offers spacious multi-room units just minutes from downtown.

After eating our fill, our large group split up into two teams and headed to our accommodations. We chose two unique spots managed by the Edgewater Group—The Coombs Inn & Suites and the Water Street Hotel & Marina.

‘MOST ELEGANT HOUSE IN APALACHICOLA’ At the Coombs we were introduced to a luxurious, historic Florida inn that consisted of three Victorian mansions, all within two blocks of each other. When the original house was built in 1905 by sawmill magnate James Coombs, it was often referred to as “the most elegant house in Apalachicola,” showcasing black cypress wall paneling, nine fireplaces and a carved oak staircase that still exists today. In the early 1960s the house fell into ruin and was boarded up. Ultimately, however, well-known interior designer Lynn Wilson and husband Bill Spohrer purchased it, with the final renovation of the Coombs House being completed in August 1994 as it converted to an inn. The current Coombs Inn has maintained many of the original classy elements to this day and

supplemented the experience with modern-day amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi and refrigerators. Additionally, many of the rooms include massage whirlpools and private verandas with a view of the lush landscape. They can also host weddings, meetings, family reunions and holiday parties. A sister property is the Water Street Hotel & Marina on Scipio Creek, less than a mile from Apalachicola Bay. Apalachicola’s newest hotel offers 30 modern suites in a classic Old Florida setting. GM Leigh Coble showed us around the property, and we were delighted to see the quality and care that went into every detail of the design. The property hosts the newly renovated Water Street Marina, which boasts 20 transient slips and floating docks and can accommodate power or sailboats up to 55 feet. Each room is a spacious suite featuring a full kitchen, two baths and an expansive living area, offering space for up to six people. These two properties are mere steps from the treelined streets that highlight the city's 250 homes and buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Staying there made our trip convenient yet gave us a laid-back, traditional feel.

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FOLKS HAD TO PIVOT, ASKING THEMSELVES: CAN WE DISCOVER NEW WAYS TO PRODUCE REVENUE WHILE PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE AND IMAGE? We decided to explore the downtown area and see how businesses are doing during the harvesting ban. We knew that many of them would have to concentrate on other aspects of commerce rather than the oyster trade, so we checked out a few to get acquainted. First up was the Apalachicola Coffee and Chocolate Company. Located in central downtown, owners Kirk and Faith have crafted the perfect location for morning indulgence. In the kitchen you can find handcrafted assortments of caramels and chocolate as well as warm baked goods. They also feature coffee that is roasted onsite and comes from as far away as South America and Indonesia. The shop itself is full of artwork collected by the owners, featuring local pieces and others from around the globe. It is the perfect breakfast or lunch stop and a great representation of the success of downtown businesses. Around the corner we found the perfect place to spend our afternoon— Oyster City Brewing Company. Conceived in 2012, their founders read lots of books, drank lots of beer and talked to brewers all over the southeast before eventually transforming an old dive bar in downtown Apalachicola into their little brewery. We were given a tour by their local brewmaster, who provided samples for us with tastes as far ranging as beet, sour peach and bitter pale ale. Each day the brewery taps upward of 20 different varieties of beer, always offering its patrons a quick taste of each fresh style. Their

Apalachicola’s

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BOTTOM PHOTO BY DAVE KELLY; OTHER PHOTOS BY MEGAN FLORENCE

Top photos: Oyster City Brewing Company has 20 brews based on daily recipes. Bottom: Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Co., home for hand-made goodies, yummy gelato and fresh-roasted coffees.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLIAMSON OUTFITTERS; BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY DAVE KELLY; OTHER PHOTOS BY DONNY MILEY

Left: Williamson Outfitters covers Apalachee Bay, (right) night gigging from the deck with Coast Runner Outfitters, (inset) deckhand Bear Williamson shows off the first flounder of the night, (below) Captain Chris often personally oversees the Williamson Outfitters tripletail charters.

local success has provided them with an opportunity to branch out, and they now operate breweries throughout the south. But the spirit of Apalachicola resides here in the Oyster City Brewing Company.

FEEL OF THIS GREAT LOCALE Over the next two days we were excited to participate in what was to be the centerpiece of our Apalachicola experience—our time on the water with Williamson Outfitters. The owner, Capt. Chris Williamson, hooked us up with two separate excursions: a flounder-gigging night expedition, then a tripletail fishing experience the day after. They were to be two unforgettable and successful outings that typify the feel of this great locale. Williamson Outfitters is based out of Eastpoint and focuses its business on western Apalachee Bay, or the Forgotten Coast. Chris’s company offers all things outdoors and Old Florida, including guided duck or gator hunts, inshore and nearshore fishing, scalloping, and eco-tours. In fact, the family owned business even offers rooms to hunters and fishermen in their incredible Eastpoint Lodge, which features private bedrooms with bathrooms, a full kitchen, big-screen TV, large porch with a bar, even a fire pit. Our gigging outing began at 9 p.m. as we left from the St. Marks boat launch on the Wakulla River, where we met expert guide Donny Miley,

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owner of Coast Runner Outfitters, and deckhands Bear and Jaden. Donny often manages Williamson night trips, expanding their offerings to unique experiences such as gigging and bowfishing. We were awed by a spectacular sunset as we eased down the river and into the bay, wondering just exactly how we were going to be able to see our prey in the darkening waters around us. As the night settled in, Capt. Donny popped on the downward-facing LED lights that surrounded the edge of the boat, and the waters all around us became crystal clear—and full of black drum, mullet, gar and our main prey, the Gulf flounder. For the next four hours we stalked the back bays and rivers, with captain and crew participating in our hunt as well. The spots that Donny chose were chock full of targets. And after learning some of the fine points of gigging from the guys, we slowly increased our success rate until we filled up the boat’s cooler with our night’s catch. We landed many diverse types of fish—the crew did an excellent job of helping us avoid spearing off-limits species such as redfish. But the excitement always mounted when we snagged our true targets, that tasty flounder. We headed back to the dock to divide up our catch and get ready for the next day’s adventure.

PURSUIT OF THE ELUSIVE TRIPLETAIL Day two started with a meet up at the Ten Foot Hole boat ramp in downtown Apalachicola. Capt. Chris and our new deckhand friends Bear and Jaden loaded us up and we took the short ride out to the middle of the bay to begin our pursuit of the elusive tripletail. While we were on the way, Chris explained that tripletail—a tasty local whitefish that can weigh up to 30 pounds or more—are found in the warm

Apalachicola’s

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TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ZIMMERMAN AGENCY; OTHER PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLIAMSON OUTFITTERS

Top: Apalachicola's fishing fleet is famous for its bountiful harvests from Apalachee Bay. Bottom: Apalachee Bay awaits a day of tripletail hunting.

Tripletail—a tasty local whitefish that can weigh up to 30 pounds or more—are found in the warm bay and nearshore waters during the summertime. Pictured is a good day's haul with Williamson Outfitters.

bay and nearshore waters during the summertime. As the name suggests, they are identified by the three tailfins that extend back from their mottled brown bodies.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WILLIAMSON OUTFITTERS

Interestingly, the fish have a habit of laying on their sides near the surface, attempting to camouflage themselves by looking like debris. Additionally, they seek out the minor shade of buoys, pilings and man-made flotsam attached to poles in the water. This habit increases the chances of fishermen finding them in the vastness of the open water that is their habitat, so we were able to zero in on the many areas that Chris’s crew had marked for us. Within a half hour of leaving the boat launch, we were hauling in keeper tripletail. The method was refreshingly simple: We would ride out to marked buoys or pilings, drop our lines nearby, and if the fish were in the vicinity, they bit. If they were not, we were out and on our way to another destination in less than five minutes. All in all, we visited dozens of these “tripletail zones” on the way to a hugely successful day on the bay. Williamson Outfitters is an amazing choice for those who share their passion for the outdoors and are looking for the trip of a lifetime on local waters. Their success, and the success of the homegrown businesses that we visited, showed us that the Apalachicola lifestyle and spirit are still thriving in this small Florida town. FCM

ROUNDUP: Coombs Inn & Suites, 80 6th St, Apalachicola, Florida, coombsinnandsuites.com, 480-676-5382 Water Street Hotel & Marina, 329 Water St., Apalachicola, Florida, waterstreethotel.com, 850-653-3700 Lynn’s Quality Oysters, 402 US Route 98, Eastpoint, Florida, lynnsqualityoysters.com, 850-670-8796 Apalachicola Coffee and Chocolate Company, 75 Market St., Apalachicola, Facebook.com/ Apalachicola Chocolate Company Oyster City Brewing Company, 17 Ave. D, Apalachicola, oystercity.beer, 850-653-2739 Coast Runner Outfitters, coastrunneroutfitters.com, 850-363-4909, Williamson Outfitters, 448 Ave A Eastpoint Florida, chrisw.fas@gmail.com, 850-251-8650

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FLORIDA CHARM

ST. MARKS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE NORTH FLORIDA PARADISE, ‘RETURN TO IT AGAIN AND AGAIN’ ate one afternoon about 15 years ago I was walking a nature trail. I paused for a moment to observe a pond full of birds. Focused on the pond instead of the ground, I stepped off the path for a better view.

Suddenly, a loud and chilling rattle was below me. My flight instinct kicked in as I jumped back and watched a huge eastern diamondback rattlesnake coil up to fiercely remind me to watch my step. Once my heart rate came down, I stood back to admire the incredible snake. This is one of many memorable moments from my visits to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. One might conclude that almost stepping on a venomous snake would deter me from returning to the refuge, which is due south of Tallahassee, but

'My flight instinct kicked in as I jumped back and watched a huge eastern diamondback rattlesnake coil up to fiercely remind me to watch my step.'

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such encounters have fueled my love of the St. Marks Refuge and my desire to return to it again and again. The St. Marks Refuge is just a short drive from our state capital and my favorite place for hiking and wildlife viewing. After 20 years since my first visit and more hikes than I can count, I still get excited by the possibilities of what I might see while at the refuge. Coastal marshes, pine forests, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries make up this refuge system, with over 83,000 acres for plants to flourish and animals to reside and visit during migration. The refuge consists of units in Taylor, Jefferson and Wakulla counties, but the 17,000-acre unit in St. Marks is where I hike. An 11-mile paved road makes it easy for visitors to drive through the refuge and down to the historic St. Marks Lighthouse.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY BEN KNOWLES

Written by: Ben Knowles

Coastal marshes, pine forests, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries make up this refuge system, with over 83,000 acres for plants to flourish and animals to reside and visit during migration.

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FLORIDA CHARM

Different habitats and lots of flora and fauna and wildlife can be seen and there are many spots to enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

I STILL GET EXCITED BY THE POSSIBILITIES OF WHAT I MIGHT SEE WHILE AT THE REFUGE. Different habitats and lots of flora and fauna can be seen throughout the drive. There are many spots to enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets. For those who wish for deeper exploration, there are 75 miles of marked refuge trails. Dolphins feeding on schools of mullet, migratory monarch butterflies resting on bushes, white-tailed bucks jumping through palmetto fans and a bobcat walking down a grassy road, these are just a few of the memorable scenes I have been privileged to observe while hiking the refuge trails. This past April the refuge provided a unique memorable moment. I went early in the morning before an afternoon appointment in Tallahassee. I set an alarm on my phone for when I needed to leave to make my appointment. I walked around all morning with my camera, but it felt like an average trip of wildlife sightings and photo-ops. Before my time was up, I made one last stop by the twin bridges on the main road. Walking past a bridge, something unusual caught my eye. An odd-looking end of a broken tree limb was my first thought, but after looking closer I realized it was a well-camouflaged chuck-will’s-widow perched on a broken tree limb. The bird was sleeping and slightly opened

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A single drive through the refuge will leave a lasting impression. Pictured is a majestic osprey.

its eyes as I clicked my camera button. Shortly, my phone alarm dinged and the bird flew away. It was an amazing moment to end my refuge visit. Growing up in Taylor County, most people referred to chuck-will’s-widows as whip-poorwills when they were heard. I was an adult when I learned the song I heard since childhood was from a chuck-will’s-widow and not a whip-poor-will. This nocturnal bird is typically heard more than seen. The few times I had spotted one was a quick glance in headlights on a road. A visit to St. Marks gave me a rare opportunity to see and photograph this bird in the daytime.

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If you are ever anywhere near St. Marks, I encourage you to visit the refuge and make your own memorable refuge moments. A single drive through the refuge will leave a lasting impression. Just watch your step if you decide to walk a trail. Ben Knowles is an outdoor enthusiast living in north Florida with his wife and two children. Find his Facebook page “Ben Outside” to enjoy photos, stories and videos of his outdoor adventures throughout Florida. FCM

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY BEN KNOWLES

ROUNDUP

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, fws.gov/refuge/st-marks, 850-925-6121 Established in 1931, one of the oldest in the National Wildlife Refuge System includes some 43 miles of north Florida’s Gulf coast. Congress had designated 17,350 acres of the refuge a National Wilderness Area. U.S. officials in May 1828 authorized a lighthouse at St. Marks and appropriated $6,000. Renovated, it is lighted seasonally to aid in navigation.

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FLORIDA CHARM

FIDDLING GHOST OF BOYNTON ISLAND WASHINGTON COUNTY’S HAUNTED SWAMP, ‘SOMETHING DISQUIETING’ HERE

Written by: Dale Cox

oynton Island is a dark and mysterious place. Even during the daylight. Cypress trees cast long shadows over swamplands where some believe that the ivory-billed woodpecker still clings to life.

At night, it is a place where those strong of heart hesitate to go. And it is all because of a fiddle player who died more than 100 years ago. His name was Moses “Mose” Boynton, and northwest Florida legend claims that he and his crew of ghostly dancers party well after midnight at their hideout deep in this haunted swamp. Boynton Island is an anomaly of nature. Located where Holmes Creek flows down from the northeast to meet the Choctawhatchee River in northwest Florida, it was originally not an island at all. The river pours out of the red clay hills of Alabama with much greater volume than the creek, picking up and depositing huge amounts of sediment during the annual flood seasons.

BOYNTON ISLAND GHOST LEGEND

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, most such stories have a foundation in true history. The available documentation indicates that the name Boynton—which may be a corruption of the names Boyington or Bowington—has been associated with the area around the confluence of Holmes Creek and the Choctawhatchee River since before the Civil War. The 1850 U.S. Census for Washington County showed Haywood Boyington, age 23, living in the area with his wife, two young daughters and a 17-yearold girl who may have been his sister. He was no longer there by 1860, when another family member was heading the household. They were from Alabama.

Records from 1860 show the presence of the man who is the focus of the Boynton Island ghost legend. Moses Bowington, also a native of Alabama, appeared on the Dale Cox has written 19 books on the census as the head of a household in the history of Florida and the Southeast. Boynton Island area. Three years later this same individual—but under the name Moses Boynton—mustered into the Confederate service at the Cowford, an early crossing point on the Choctawhatchee River Over eons of time this process has slowly elevated the bottom downstream from the island near today’s town of Ebro. He of the Choctawhatchee to higher levels than the creek. Holmes served for a few months in Company C, 11th Florida Infantry, Creek, meanwhile, carved itself a path down into Florida’s but was dropped from the regimental rolls just a short time karst topography, lowering its bottom even deeper below that later. The records are silent as to the reason. of the river. At certain times of the year, the surface of the Not long after Moses Boynton left the service, however, a creek is actually several feet below that of the river. large band of Southern Unionists and Confederate deserters Since water has a way of flowing downhill, the Choctawhatchee picked Boynton Island as its hideout. Led by a man named opened a “cut” through a natural levee into Holmes Creek near Jim Ward, the group used the island as a base for strikes the point where the two finally flowed together. The river’s against pro-secession civilians, military detachments and water started trickling through and quickly became a torrent. even the town of Elba, Alabama. Local citizens called them The result was a wide channel called the Boynton Cutoff. The “raiders,” but some of these men served in the Union army as soldiers of the 1st Florida Cavalry (U.S.). Others remained explosive power of the Choctawhatchee widened the cutoff irregulars, fighting their own uncivil war against both sides. and now it is the main channel of the river. The land between the cutoff and the original confluence became an island, the Boynton’s relationship with them is not known, but the 19th century domain of Moses Boynton. The place’s isolation proximity of his home to their hideout suggests that at a makes it even more mysterious. minimum he was on peaceful terms with Ward’s group. Especially because many believe that Boynton and his cast of spectral dancers still hang out there!

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His island is rumored to be a hiding place for gold and silver buried by the band.

MIDDLE RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF USGS; BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHAEL COX

Moses "Mose" Boynton was known by timber workers up and down the river as a man who enjoyed a good time. One of the best dance callers in the region, he played a mighty fine fiddle. Jimmy Riley is shown (below left) as Boynton in a re-enactment event.

SLOWLY RECLAIMED BY THE SWAMP

The last decades of the 19th century brought an explosion in timber and sawmill activity on the Choctawhatchee River and Choctawhatchee Bay. Moses Boynton and his son, Raymond, engaged in cutting virgin cypress logs that they floated downstream to mills around Point Washington at the mouth of the river. They branded their name on one end of each log before setting them loose or connecting them into rafts for the journey. It was backbreaking work. Moses was known by timber workers up and down the river as a man who enjoyed a good time. One of the best

dance callers in the region, he played a mighty fine fiddle. The large log-and-plank Boynton home on Boynton Island was often brightly illuminated at night and could be seen for great distances around. Friends, family and neighbors gathered there for food, fun and dancing. Choctawhatchee loggers often joined the parties—sounds of the music and dancing could be heard for miles. The years went by … and Moses Boynton aged with them. After he died, the old house was abandoned and slowly reclaimed by the swamp. Loggers and fishermen who camped at nearby Boynton Landing found something disquieting about F L O R I DAC O U N T RY M AGA Z I N E . C O M

FLORIDA CHARM the place, especially late at night. Stories spread of strange lights in the swamp. In the logging camps, tales were told of how strong lumbermen were unnerved by the clear voice of a man calling dances over the music of a fiddle accompanied by the stomping feet of whole troupes of dancers. The sounds came from the deep swamps of Boynton Island, where no living human beings could have been partying so late at night. Word spread that old Moses Boynton was back, and that he was not alone. For as long as a trace of the old house remained, locals stayed away. Tales of Moses Boynton and his dancing guests became legendary in Washington County. The dark and foreboding setting of the island—with its gators and enormous water moccasins— added to the mysterious appeal of the story. People came to fish or hunt during the day, but they made sure they were across the cutoff and on their way home long before sunset. The island with its cypress trees and Spanish moss was left to its own during the stillness of the night. It remains that way today, and many believe that the fiddling ghost and his cadre of dancers are still there … when the moon is high and the fog rises just right. Boynton Island is dark and mysterious at night. The cutoff runs fast and muddy during times of high water and much of the island itself is submerged during the annual Choctawhatchee River floods. It is largely owned by the Northwest Florida Water Management District, which maintains its holdings

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as public land. There are no facilities or developed trails. The Choctawhatchee River Blueway, a state designated paddling trail, passes the island, and Boynton Cutoff Landing is a boat ramp directly opposite the island. If you go, be safe. And don’t say that you weren’t warned. Editor’s Note: Award-winning author and historian Dale Cox has written 19 books on the history of Florida and the Southeast. This is an excerpt from his “Two Egg Florida: A Collection of Ghost Stories, Legends and Unusual Facts.” FCM

ROUNDUP WASHINGTON COUNTY, FLORIDA HISTORY: Founded in 1825, named after George Washington, county seat is Chipley WHERE: Central Florida Panhandle POPULATION: 25,318 FACTS: Vernon, center of the county, named for Washington’s Virginia home, Mount Vernon POINTS OF INTEREST: Falling Waters State Park, 73-foot waterfall

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FLORIDA EXCURIONS

PENSACOLA INTERSTATE FAIR FOOD, FERRIS WHEELS AND FUN, STEP RIGHT UP!

Written by: Ava Grace

What began as a small collection of local farmers and educators has become one of the most cherished and exciting events on Florida's Gulf coast, drawing more than 200,000 visitors over 11 days. In fact, the 170-acre Pensacola Interstate Fair is one of the top 50 in the country, according to those tracking such numbers. And much of the Pensacola Interstate Fair is free with admission. Its most remarkable tradition focuses

on education and livestock. “Every year,” says Frenkel, “we encourage students to come and participate in the fair, which earns them an opportunity to receive a scholarship. Our livestock program is one of our proudest achievements, culminating each year with a steer auction. Dozens of young children work year-round to care for and raise steers to be auctioned in October. Proceeds go directly to the young people who have worked and sacrificed so much while learning responsibility.” The younger ones can have fun participating in AG-Venture, a free hands-on educational program designed to teach the importance of agriculture and where food comes from. They can participate in activities such as learning to make butter and collecting eggs from the chicken coop.

THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A FAIR. —Dondi Frenkel, Pensacola Interstate Fair

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF PENSACOLA FAIR

he Pensacola Interstate Fair since the 1930s has entertained us with great food, thrilling rides, top entertainment, amazing exhibits and agricultural shows. “There is nothing like a fair,” says Dondi Frenkel, concessions and public relations manager.

PHOTO CREDIT INFO

More than 60 thrilling rides and fun times at the Pensacola Interstate Fair. Agricultural enthusiasts won’t be left disappointed as there are plenty of shows, exhibits and contests.

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FLORIDA EXCURSIONS There are also 25 exhibit categories and over 700 participants each year, from 4-H, FFA, poultry, photography, custom cars, school art, beekeeping, gem and minerals, woodcarving, antiques and hobby exhibits spread out over four air-conditioned buildings so that guests get a chance to browse leisurely and comfortably. Those who enjoy soaring to great heights on Ferris wheels, spinning in circles on a bumper car, or going upside down of a rollercoaster will be delighted with the 60 rides and games provided by Reithoffer Shows, a family owned provider of midway rides, games and food. Of course, there are plenty of chances to win a stuffed bear or inflatable dinosaur and enjoy corn dogs, cotton candy and deep-fried tacos amongst the flashing neon lights and carnival barkers inviting guests to Step Right Up! “We are proud to say that the fair provides a giant boost for our local Pensacola economy,” says Frenkel. The Pensacola Interstate Fair generates over 300 jobs. Plus, vendors and carnival workers buy supplies, shop, dine and enjoy themselves in the surrounding community.

Pensacola Interstate Fair, October 20-30 6655 W. Mobile Hwy, Pensacola, Florida pensacolafair.com, 850-944-4500

PHOTO COURTESY OF PENSACOLA FAIR

And local hotels, restaurants and the tourism industry boom during the fair. “The Pensacola Interstate Fair is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings our community and surrounding visitors together to enjoy the best that life has to offer!” says Frenkel. FCM

ROUNDUP

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MY BEST FRIEND Florida Country Magazine runs a “My Best Friend” contest on Facebook every other month, for each issue of the magazine.

Kristina Rodriguez of Palm Coast, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Leo Best Friend’s Breed: Maine Coon This is our gentle giant Leo. He decided to help me decorate for fall this year. We were fostering his mom when he was born not breathing. Growing up on a farm gave me the skills needed to resuscitate him. After that bonding experience we just had to keep him. Little did we know that baby kitten would turn out to be a big ball of fluffy love!

Shayna Roberts of Myakka City, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Clover Best Friend’s Breed: Red Brahman Mason and Clover became best friends after Clover caught pneumonia and almost died. Mason spent long days and nights next to her making sure she was going to be okay .... moral of the story, he did a great job. She is much better and will be his best showmanship heifer he ever had in 4-H!

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Sarah Rose White of Auburndale, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Conway Best Friend’s Breed: Lab mix Conway is more than just my best friend—he shares memories of good and bad times together and never fails to put a smile on my face in the darkest of days. Just an all-around good boy, a clown with four paws. I adopted him almost 7 years ago from a very dear friend of mine who passed this May of cancer. He’s by far the greatest gift she’s ever given me … aside from her many years of friendship to me.

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Valerie Luise of Orange City, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Ruby and Kyanne Best Friend’s Breed: Doberman Pinscher These are my two best friends Ruby and Kyanne. They are the epitome of unconditional love. Staying by my side throughout some big changes in

my life, even weathering a couple of crazy hurricanes alone together. They are the reasons my heart beats.

Holly Day Smith Buckingham, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Blaze Best Friend’s Breed: Quarter Horse Blaze was purchased for my son by my father to work cows. He did an amazing job. My son retired him. However, he’s still very much rideable. Kids ride him as I do when able. When my father was going through cancer, he took up so much time with him and our cows to comfort him with his battle with cancer. The cancer won for my father. However, Blaze is still here, and my father said Blaze was his therapy to go feed. And to go spend time with. That horse carried my father’s ashes to his burial. It’s therapeutic.

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PICTURE PERFECT ‘MOMENTS IN TIME’

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’ve been doing photography for many years. I love animals but I love seeing animals and children interact more than anything. I would do photographs of this nature only if I could. Photography has been a passion of mine since I was a child. There’s nothing quite like capturing a moment in time we can never get back—but we can print it and savor it for many years to come. Cottondale, Florida’s Amy Justice caught her image at the family farm using a Nikon Z7.

Photo by: Amy Justice

Photo by: Heather K. Hoyt

‘SO GRATEFUL’

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hotography is my way to slow down the constant motion and changes in life, quiet my mind, capture the light, show appreciation and connect with moments we can never get back. The fleeting turtle tracks and a one-of-a-kind sunrise is just another example of the peace and serenity I have found off (SR) A1A. It has been nothing short of a dream come true and I am so grateful for every day. Palm Coast, Florida’s Heather K. Hoyt snapped her photo at Flagler Beach using a Nikon D7200 with a Tamron lens.

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‘SO SMOOTH!’

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his is what I like to call my photo art. I turn my photos into a painting style and this young lady sure stole the show with her beauty and beautiful horse and how they seemed to dance together so perfectly, so smooth! Renae DeVine of Green Cove Springs shot her amazing image at the Jacksonvillle Equestrian Center with a Canon Rebel T7i.

‘BOOTY WIGGLER!’

Photo by: Renae DeVine

Photo by: Marlo K. Alleva

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his is Iggy, the first (of four) Sulcata tortoises that I have taken in as a rescue. He’s roughly 11 years old. He loves a juicy melon and shell scratches—he wiggles his booty! I love photographing my animals, wildlife and all my outdoor adventures! It’s kind of like a picture book of not only my life but giving others a glimpse of the great outdoors that I love so much! Lakeland’s Marlo K. Alleva captured her portrait at home on an iPhone 13.

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PICTURE PERFECT ‘IZZY AND ARIA’

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his picture was taken for Easter. I'm getting pictures of my daughter Aria for each holiday so I can send them to my family in Germany. The dog in the picture is Izzy Moonbow and she was a new addition to our small family. LaBelle’s Sylvia Vincent submitted this portrait taken at Koreshan State Park in Estero, Florida.

Photo by: Sylvia Vincent

‘BEAUTIFUL BOBCAT’

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‘SPECIAL MEMORIES’

hotography has allowed me to see nature in a whole new perspective and it excites me to be able to showcase how I see the world through my lens. Once in a while something magical appears in the marsh like this beautiful bobcat kitten. I was fortunate enough to see this magnificent animal perched in a tree right when the sun was rising as I was walking on a trail. It was just me and the bobcat. Amber Favorite of Winter Garden snapped her photo with a Sony Alpha 1 at the Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida.

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hotography plays such a special part in our lives, to preserve moments that pass by entirely too quickly. With kids, they change so fast—it’s hard to blink without them growing. I can still play back in my mind the live version of playing with my son Maverick in this field as he had just learned to walk about a month prior. Riverview’s Kara Peterson shot this image at the Three Sons Farm in Dover, Florida, using a Sony a7 III.

Photo by: Amber Favorite

Photo by: Kara Peterson

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‘DARK TO LIGHT’

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Photo by: Katherine Ross

took this photo during the pandemic. It was a dark time for many of us and I wanted to capture the hope of the sunrise, which is often associated with new beginnings. My passion for photography really helped me get through 2020. It began with entering a 4-H contest but has become a much bigger part of my life. I love how photography allows me to express myself. And I have fun doing it. Jacksonville’s Katherine Ross snapped her image at St. Augustine Beach, Florida, using a Canon 70D.

‘FLORIDA BISON’

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ur family was eager to explore Paynes Prairie. We knew about the bison but there was no guarantee we would see them during our visit. Stopping by the ranger station for word on their location paid off! My photography journey began in earnest when I entered a National Geographic contest on a whim in 2014 … and won. I have been passionate about improving my skills since. Nature is my favorite subject. And Florida never disappoints! Jacksonville’s Elizabeth Ross caught her image at the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park near Gainesville, Florida, using a Canon 70D. Photo by: Elizabeth Ross F L O R I DAC O U N T RY M AGA Z I N E . C O M

PICTURE PERFECT Photo by: Lily Bates

‘R.I.P. ADEL’

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his photo has pictured my personal horses and mini horse. The order from left to right is Thunderbird, Adel, Jolene and Fishy. This photo is really special to me because these are some of my best friends. My horse Adel, which is the sorrel horse in the middle, passed away this year in March. He’s the center of the picture, my angel. Fishy, which is the mini pony, just makes this photo even sweeter because he always needs to be included! Vero Beach’s Lily Bates took her family portrait with a Canon Rebel. The scene is a barn in West Vero Beach, Florida.

‘PRECIOUS MEMORIES’

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he photo was taken the first day of Florida lobster mini season. Cody, a certified scuba diver, also found this snapper and used a spear gun to get it out of a hole while he was looking for lobster. Cody helped his group of 10 get their lobster limit both days. Photography saves precious memories— someday they will be all you have left. Venice’s Nikki Duyn caught her cool image in the Florida Keys with a Google Pixel 6 smartphone.

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Photo by: Nikki Duyn

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WILD FLORIDA

SINGING THE BLUES FLORIDA BLUE CRABS: FAMILY FUN, DELICIOUS EATS

love crab, all types. Stone, king, etc., it doesn’t matter. Given a choice, however, I will take blue crab every time. I have very fond memories of wading the flats of Tampa Bay as a kid, filling up a bucket for a crab boil. I still get hungry for them today.

This past weekend was one such time … and I decided it was time to go. I headed down to the coast armed only with a bucket and my crab net to test my skills. I arrived just after the sunrise, put on my wading shoes and headed out just past the marsh grasses on the shoreline. Within the first five feet of wading, I saw my first crab, a nice one with a shell about 5 inches wide. I quickly scooped it up and placed him in the bucket. I short distance later I had another, then another, then another, and, well, you get the idea. Less than two hours later, I had almost four dozen, more than enough for a feast. Once home, I fired up the outdoor burner and steamed them with a generous amount of seafood seasoning (you know the one I’m referring to). I then spent the afternoon in the back yard with the dog, picking and eating crab, drinking beer and listening to college football on the radio. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday. If you’re a crab-lover like I am, you have noticed that crabs are not cheap. They can be so expensive I just can’t justify it. Luckily for us here in Florida, blue crab are both abundant and easy to catch. Blue crabs can be found throughout Florida in most coastal areas. They are both predators and scavengers, eating just about any type of fresh dead or live bait. Fish scraps and chicken legs are two of the more common baits used when crabbing.

There are several different methods that can be used to fill a pot with crab. The easiest is trapping, where you simply bait a trap, place it in the water and check it sometime later. What you bait it with is largely a matter of preference, but I’ve always just used the scraps from fish I’ve caught recently, like trout, redfish, etc. There are limits and regulations on how many recreational traps you can have, and how they must be marked and designed, however, so be sure you do your homework. Traps left unattended are also subject to someone else taking your crabs, so it helps to have a boat to spread the traps out in deeper water away from other people. Other methods require some sort of crab net, and there are many types available. My favorite has a long handle (5 feet or longer) with a D shaped net. The flat side of the D is pointed out so it can be placed squarely on the ground to avoid the crab crawling under the net. Quality nets can often be found at your local bait shop. To draw the crabs to you, people will toss a string baited with chicken legs etc. out into the water. Then every so often you SLOWLY pull in the bait and net the crab. Some commercial anglers use a long line with multiple baits tied to it. My favorite method, however, is simply wading along the shoreline and scooping the crabs up with my net. In my area of north Florida, we have miles of undeveloped coastlines loaded with blue crab, so this method proves very effective. The one drawback to blue crab is that there is not much meat on them compared to other types of crab. As a

Blue crabs can be found throughout Florida in most coastal areas. They are both predators and scavengers, eating just about any type of fresh dead or live bait.

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BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN, PHD

Written by: Paul Thurman, PhD

MIDDLE AND BOTTOM PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN, PHD

There are limits and regulations on how many recreational traps you can have, and how they must be marked and designed, so be sure you do your homework.

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WILD FLORIDA result, you may spend more time cooking and picking than you do catching them. Because of this, a blue crab feast can often take all afternoon. Just be sure to have good friends over, good music, and lots of cold beer. Then you won’t mind sitting around the picnic table for a couple of hours. Once picked, there are countless ways to eat crab, with deviled crab, crab chilau and crab cakes being some of my favorites. As a Florida native, I’m a firm believer that everything is better here. But if you’re ever in Maryland, do yourself a favor and order a crab cake. You can thank me later. I hope this inspires you to get outside and have fun catching crabs. Good luck and tight lines! FCM

YOU SHOULD KNOW Various legal requirements for crabbing in Florida include: • Gear – Blue crab trap (Up to five traps per person), drop net, dip or landing net, fold up trap, push scrape, trotline, hook and line. • Size limit – None • Prohibited crabs – Egg bearing females • Daily limit – 10 gallons of blue crab per harvester in a day. 1-2 gallons of stone crabs per harvester in a day. Examples of trap requirements, not inclusive • Size ‒ 2x2x2 feet or 8 cubic feet in volume • Size of the mesh – 1.5 inches or larger • Traps must be pulled strictly during daylight hours. • The entrance should not extend farther than 6 inches inside the trap. • There must be at least three escape rings measuring at least 2 3/8 inches in diameter. • The trap should contain the name and address of the harvester, also an FWC issued trap registration number (even for recreational crabbing). Source: crabsman.com

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STARS & GUITARS presented by

COUNTRY RAP'S SAVANNAH DEXTER ON HER WAY TO SUPERSTARDOM t’s the world of country rap, a fusion of country and hip-hop music—dominated by men. That is until Florida native Savannah Dexter came on the scene. Some call her Sav, some call her Savage, a sweet yet sexy siren climbing her way up the charts.

Not many female artists in her genre get this opportunity.

CHANCE OF FATE

Her drive and talent would catapult Dexter into a viral sensation overnight around the Christmas holidays in 2021 with the release of her song “Sinner Like Me” featuring Brabo Gator. Going from a mere 4,000 followers on Instagram to more than a quarter-million started with a promise made by a stranger—Brabo Gator—in July 2020. Gator is an artist and owner of the music label Mako Music Group, telling her to “give him 30 days” and he would change her life—a video testimonial caught on Dexter’s phone, which she holds close to her heart. Gator would come into her life at a time Dexter was trying to find herself. Working an unfulfilling job in the medical field, finally making a choice to leave it all behind, pack her bags and start immediately in the recording studio. The timing was right, Gator needing a female country rap artist for a song he was working on called “Low Down”—but could she rap? Well, it turned out this R&B, country pop singer not only could rap but it also came naturally for Dexter. And her future was becoming brighter and clearer.

NOT ALWAYS SO CLEAR

But Dexter’s path was not always clear growing up as a baby girl brought into this world on July 10, 1996, by teenage parents trying to figure out who they were … and where was that book on raising a child?

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Her Nana and Papa played important roles in her life, however, setting structure and some sort of stability in young Dexter’s life and always providing her with everything music, since she was always performing in front of a mirror. Later in fifth grade she would move in with her father and his new wife. This part of her life is detailed in Dexter’s earliest music, in which she expresses some of the childhood heartache she felt. Dexter would rather look at those moments as preparing for this world as she reflects on that little girl, saying, “I would tell her, 1,000 percent, the opinions of others do not matter, it’s going to be okay, everything that you’re going through is for a purpose, and one day your story will help thousands, your fans, your Savages.”

THE STRUGGLE IS REAL

Today, 26-year-old Dexter has come a long way from the little girl who felt she was an outcast and unwanted. A long way from the teenage girl in high school who needed validation from others. She has instead grown into a woman, realizing that her truth and musical expression can forever impact someone’s life. But it’s still her truth. After a recent performance in Missouri, for instance, Dexter met up with her dad, stepmother and her sisters. She needed to release things and decided at this point she would rather forgive and let things go. She has realized her stepmother was very young and battling her own demons at the time and they all needed to heal and move forward. Dexter says: “When I came back from my trip, it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. “A stop on my tour ended up being a journey of healing, for all of us.”

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF SAVANNAH DEXTER

Written by: Scarlett Redenius

I’M SO THANKFUL FOR MY FANS, MY SAVAGES. I WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT THEM. —Savannah Dexter

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STARS & GUITARS

Left photo: Savannah's mom, Savannah, and Brabo Gator. Middle photo: Savannah and Brabo. Right photo: Nana, Savannah, Brabo, and Papa. Savannah is excited about her upcoming marriage.

ON THE RISE

It has only been two short years and Savannah Dexter has released four albums— “Genesis,” “Loner,” “Savages” and “Certified Savage.” “Covid was a terrible thing that happened to our country,” she says, “but it made me take a step back and recognize music is my life, my passion, it’s in my blood. “I’m so thankful for my fans, my Savages. I would be nothing without them.” The girl who was never at peace, never comfortable, barely taking care of herself, is now seeing her name on billboards, performing at venues all over the United States. She has collaborated with others paving the way for other artists in the country rap genre. Early artists like Johnny Cash and Charlie Daniels would speak-sing lyrics making part of this country rap genre come alive. Other chart-topping artists like Jelly Roll, Adam Calhoun, Demun Jones, Moonshine Bandits, Bubba Sparxxx, Nelly, Struggle Jennings, Big Smo and Bottleneck have put this genre on the map. It is here to stay.

MY SAVAGES

Dexter draws very large crowds wherever she performs and her fans, known as Savages, seem never disappointed. Her merchandise lines are impressive, and she has fans waiting for hours to get a brief one-on-one experience. She knows her fame is growing and there will come a day she will not be able to do so. But for

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right now she waits, like they do, until the last Savage is hugged and thanked. She has big things going on for her and cannot wait to share them. That one-time stranger, Brabo Gator, is now her fiancée. The chemistry between these two has fans screaming for more collaboration. And you better believe they are going to get it. Dexter and Gator are in the studio recording some of their best music to date. And Dexter has a special message for her fans—thank you for being so open to her and for allowing her into your lives, she cannot say thank you enough.

SAVANNAH DEXTER’S FUTURE

Dexter cannot wait for the day to give thanks back to Nana, Papa, mom and dad, and to owning her very own dream home. She wants to be part of the country-rap history, hopes to make a lot of it. She is thankful for so much in her life and reminds herself every day there is always something to be thankful for. She looks forward to becoming a wife and mother. And a huge advocate for women and abuse, a subject she knows too well from personal experience. Her catchy beats and lyrics keep you coming back for more. “Sinner Like Me” is on the tracks to gold and Savannah Dexter’s future is more than clear and bright. She is on her way to superstardom, and she won’t stop until she achieves it. Savannah’s faith is very important to her and she knows she owes it all to God and the path she’s taken, is all part of God’s plan. FCM

ROUNDUP Savannah Dexter performs at Redneck Mud Park, November 12, 44570 Bermont Road, Punta Gorda, Florida, tickets/details at redneckmudpark.com Mako Music Group SavannahDexterTour.com

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF SAVANNAH DEXTER

Check Savannah Dexter’s music out on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, YouTube, and Amazon

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FCM CROSSWORD SUBSCRIBE ONLINE TO OUR PRINT OR DIGITAL MAGAZINE 1 Year $29.95 floridacountrymagazine/ subscribe.com

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FREE ONE-YEAR PRINT SUBSCRIPTION. WE WILL RANDOMLY PICK THREE WINNERS THIS ISSUE. Find the hidden word and email, mail or send a message to any of our social media accounts to enter.

ACROSS 1 Gaited breed known for its agility and speed 5 Town where you can see the Bok Tower Gardens, Lake ______ (Polk County) 8 Holiday tuber 9 With the current 10 Sitting on normally, as a horse 13 Try to influence 15 Recites 16 Breakfast meat choice 20 Soccer ___ 21 Latitude 22 Horse homes 27 Tranquil island in Lee County 29 Aka sergeant fish 30 Starbucks serving 31 Attempt 32 Street, for short

DOWN

Call today and subscribe 239-692-2613 To Enter Contest for Free Subscription: Email Hidden Word to: publisher@floridacountrymagazine.com Mail Hidden Word to: PO Box 50989 Fort Myers, Florida 33994 Send to Social Media: Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

HIDDEN WORD

1 Island group northwest of Jamaica 2 Coat part 3 Youngster 4 Use the oars 5 Sings sweetly, like a bird 6 Swarming pest, 2 words 7 Polite address to a customer 11 Kitchen herb 12 Academic hurdle 14 Go word 16 Dim sum dip sauce 17 Navy ship intro 18 Melodramatic cry 19 Sushi fare 20 Maritime 21 Close to home 23 Good to eat 24 Diving birds 25 Drink often served with sushi 26 Lure 28 Plum center

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TRUCKS & TOYS

HAVE A MUDDY GOOD TIME REDNECK MUD PARK TO HOST 4-DAY ‘TRUCKS GONE WILD’ BONANZA

Written by: Florida Country Magazine

et ready to have fun and get muddy in Southwest Florida by taking part in the Trucks Gone Wild Fall Classic at Florida-based Redneck Mud Park located in Punta Gorda. The four-day mud bonanza, set for Nov. 10 to 13, 2022, will include Mega Mud Truck races, a truck tugo-war, live music with country-rap artist Savannah Dexter, camping, vendors and—of course—a whole lot of mud! The park, originally named Redneck Yacht Club, was built and opened by founder Danny Kelly in December 2008. In his youth, Kelly and his friends were often chased off private property while riding, so his keen desire to provide a place for off-road enthusiasts to ride came from the heart. Kelly began acquiring land in eastern Charlotte County in the 1990s and worked it as a potato farm until 2006, when he initiated the permitting process for the park. He was

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granted final approval in early 2008 and laid out plans for the world-class mud park that he envisioned. Construction took nearly a year, with Kelly’s goal “to satisfy every type of rider and provide a fun yet safe environment for everyone who enters the gate.” As the owner of Kelly Brothers Marine Construction, he had the materials on hand to build a tough, sturdy infrastructure on almost 500 acres of his farm. Kelly knew that building the best mud park in the country would require it to be unique in many ways. So, in addition to creating monster mud holes and miles of trails, he built an oval race track for Mega Mud Truck racing, poured a cement pad for the truck tugs, constructed a huge permanent stage for nightly entertainment, and carved out a half-dozen camping areas. He also designed and built a state-of-the-art “Buggy Wash,” where folks can clean off the mud after a day of getting dirty. It’s a social gathering spot

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF REDNECK MUD PARK

TRUCKS & TOYS

where park visitors can drive their muddy vehicles through the huge structure to be pressure-washed. When he was finished, Kelly had spent more than a million dollars to provide the area with “The World’s Most Exciting Off-Road Park.” Redneck Yacht Club opened to the public in late 2008, and mud fans from all over the state flocked to the new park. Its reputation quickly grew, attracting thousands to weekend-long mud gatherings. Folks brought big trucks, swamp buggies, and four-wheelers of all kinds to participate in the now world-famous events. The park became a “must visit” destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Over the years, many additions have been made to the property. Bleachers have been added to the Mega Mud Truck racetrack, a dedicated “vendor row” features food and merchandise, and an ATV and Side x Side-only riding area adds to the appeal and value of a weekend ticket. In 2015, the name of the venue was changed to Redneck Mud Park to better describe the fun that goes on during the long muddy weekend events.

ROUNDUP Redneck Mud Park 44570 Bermont Road Punta Gorda, Florida redneckmudpark.com

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF REDNECK MUD PARK

The park will open early Thursday morning, Nov. 10, to provide four full days of muddy riding for all attendees. Thursday and Friday night will feature entertainment at the main stage, and you definitely do not want to miss country-rap artist Savannah Dexter Saturday night. It will be another awesome weekend for this mud loving community! FCM

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THE CULINARY CRACKER

WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN Every issue of Florida Country magazine is filled with easy, delicious recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

INGREDIENTS 6 sausages 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry 1 teaspoon honey 12 edible eyes

SAUSAGE MUMMIES Serves 4

PREPARATION Preheat oven to 390 degrees. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into skinny strips lengthwise using a pizza cutter. Pick one sausage roll at a time, wrap one of the pastry strips around each sausage to create a mummy effect, leaving a little gap for the face. Trim and discard excess pastry that is too long. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and flaky. Remove from the oven and allow the mummy sausages to cool a little. Brush a little honey on the underside of the edible eyes and stick on your mummies. You can make a spider ketchup and mustard dipping sauce to serve it with.

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INGREDIENTS 12 thin pretzel sticks 6 pieces string cheese, halved crossways 12 pieces of chives

PRETZEL AND CHEESE BROOMSTICKS Yields 12

PREPARATION Push a string cheese half onto the end of a half. pretzel stick, about a one-third into cheese ng pulli se, chee g strin Pull apart the ends of the the of s third twot the strings of cheese to abou zel way up, avoiding the section where the pret the of top the Tie stick is inserted in the top. cheese on each pretzel stick with a piece of chive and trim with kitchen scissors.

INGREDIENTS 12 hard-cooked eggs, halved ½ cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon white vinegar 2 teaspoons yellow mustard Salt and pepper, to taste 24 black olives

HALLOWEEN DEVILED EGGS Serves 24

PREPARATION es Scoop egg yolks into a bowl and set egg whit me beco they l unti fork a aside. Mash yolks with , tard mus gar, vine ise, onna fine pieces. Add may hand a with Mix s. yolk salt and pepper to the held mixer until mostly smooth and well es. combined. Spoon yolk mixture into egg whit olive of half one Put Cut whole olive in half. for the spider’s body. Thinly slice the other half for the spider’s legs. Put four legs on each side. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

F L O R I DAC O U N T RY M AGA Z I N E . C O M

THE CULINARY CRACKER INGREDIENTS 3 pounds ground turkey ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs ½ cup red bell pepper, diced 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ¼ cup finely diced onion 2 eggs, lightly beaten ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley 2 teaspoons garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper Leftover stuffing Leftover cranberry sauce

PREPARATION Mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, egg whites, parsley, garlic, salt and pepper together in a large bowl. Make 10 patties. Cook the patties in a medium skillet over medium heat, turning once, until fully cooked. Layer your turkey burger with leftover stuffing and cranberry sauce. Yummy!

THANKSGIVING TURKEY BURGERS WITH LEFTOVER STUFFING AND CRANBERRY SAUCE Serves 10

F L O R I DAC O U N T RY O c t o b e r | Nove m b e r 2 0 2 2

PUMPKIN PANCAKES WITH HONEY BUTTER Yields 12

INGREDIENTS— PANCAKES 1¾ cups flour 3½ tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1½ cups whole milk ¾ cup canned pumpkin 2 eggs 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

INGREDIENTS— HONEY BUTTER 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/3 cup honey 3 tablespoons powdered sugar ½ teaspoon salt

PREPARATION Blend all honey butter ingredien ts and store in refrigerator in an airtight container until ready to serve. Stir all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add in melted butter, eggs, pumpkin and milk and stir until blended. Pour ¼ cup batter for each pancake int o hot, greased skillet. Cook pancak es until bubbles form over the surface and begin to pop and the edges of pancakes look dry and the bottom is golden brown, abo ut 60 seconds. Flip the pancakes and cook on the second side unt il golden brown, about 30 second s. Repeat until all batter is gone. Transfer to a plate and serve hot with honey butter and maple syr up. F L O R I DAC O U N T RY M AGA Z I N E . C O M

F L O R I DAC O U N T RY O c t o b e r | Nove m b e r 2 0 2 2

F L O R I DAC O U N T RY M AGA Z I N E . C O M