Tallahassee Magazine - July/August 2011

WEDDINGS 2011

When Preston scott talks, tallahassee is listening

for Brides, It’s ALL ABOUt tHE DEstInAtIOn in our neW Weddings section!

BaBy, they’ve got FireWorks go outside and Play — and cook something, too

Let’s

Get

Together

You’re Invited to Join 18 of Tallahassee’s Top Singles Atop Hotel Duval for Flirtation and a Charity Date Auction

Tallahassee

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Where Tallahassee Gets Engaged!

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July/August 2011

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Preston scott

Tallahassee’s most popular morning talk radio show host has a passion for community, faith, family — and doing the right thing.

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Meet our 2011 toP singles

118 Weddings

Three local couples share stories of their courtship and wedding days. PLUS: A special advertising section to help you plan the ultimate northwest Florida destination wedding.

Eighteen of the area’s most eligible singles are dressed up and ready to pair up for their favorite charitable causes at the hottest event of the summer.

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Medical Profiles

Local doctors share their specialties and the philosophies of their practices in this special advertising section.

PhoTo by WhiTnEy FLETchEr

on tHe coVer

ryan Dungey and Jill chandler contemplate the laws of attraction before this year’s Tallahassee Top Singles event, set for Saturday, July 16 at hotel Duval. Photo by Scott holstein

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contents In Every Issue 13 From the Publisher 15 From the Editor 16 Letters to the Editor 178 The Last Word

Quick Reads 19 ONE TO WATCH

Be on the lookout for William Lamb’s natural designs.

20 FYI

Downtown landmark hotel gets a new life as a Sheraton.

22 GEN NEXT

Overweight can mean early puberty for young girls.

24 LIFESTYLE

Cool sandals for summer’s warm weather.

Departments

56 CALENDAR

Fireworks aficionados have a blast in Monticello.

64 SOCIAL STUDIES

26 EDITOR’S CHOICE 32 ON THE MOVE

Leon Sinks is a great place to get back to nature.

38 GIVING BACK

The Sharing Tree gives new life to our castaways.

Places to go, things to do … and here are the people to see.

Home & Garden 149 CHECK IT OUT

Ceiling fans bring a “wind chill” to rooms using less electricity.

150 HABITAT

48 HISTORICITY

Mind & Body

For decades, Sylvia Ochs has brought verve and commitment to high-profile community projects.

In frontier days, yellow fever was the scourge of Tallahassee.

114 TRAVEL

Exploring the natural beauty of Spain’s Andalusia region.

55 SPOTLIGHT

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Enjoy a night of music and activities at the Swamp Stomp.

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Looking for some hot fun in the summertime? Look here!

42 PERSONALITY

Events

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165

150

114

How to create a lawn that will have neighbors green with envy.

159 IN FOCUS

Skin care: It’s not just for women anymore.

160 HEALTH

All about fat. And it’s not all bad news.

Dining

165 FIRST COURSE

Give your body what it’s craving this season: a cold drink.

166 FLAVOR

Enjoy a great meal in the great outdoors.

171 DINING GUIDE

Eateries around town, offering everything from a quick nosh to a sumptuous meal.

Photos by Scott Holstein and Katrice Howell (shoe)

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July–august 2011

Vol. 33, No. 4

Publisher Brian E. Rowland Editor Rosanne Dunkelberger

designer Saige Roberts Staff Writer Jason Dehart Contributing Writers Lisa Carey, Gibby Conrad, Florence Snyder, Jack Macalevy, Lisa Fingeroot, Laz Aleman, Virginia Newman, Lilly Rockwell STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Scott Holstein

Editorial Interns Brittany Barriner, Holly Brooks, Carson Demont, Alexia McKay, Terrika Mitchell, Bianca Salvant, Desiree Stennett, Janeen Talbott

traffic coordinators Lisa Sostre Sales Executives Lori Magee, Linda Powell, Chuck Simpson Online tallahasseemagazine.com twitter.com/tallahasseemag facebook.com/tallahasseemag

President Brian E. Rowland

Director of Tim Fordyce Publishing operations

Creative Director Lawrence Davidson

Production DIRECTOR Melinda Lanigan

Director of Linda Kleindienst Editorial Services

Manager of Finance Angela Cundiff HR/Administration

Manager of Daniel Parisi Integrated Sales

Administrator of McKenzie Burleigh Sales and Events

Client Service Caroline Conway Representative

Assistant Saige Roberts

Creative Director

Graphic Designers Marc Thomas, Daniel Vitter

magazine Ad Builder Patrick Patterson

traffic coordinator Lisa Sostre

Receptionist Amy Lewis

Network Administrator Daniel Vitter

Web Site rowlandpublishing.com

Tallahassee Magazine is published bimonthly by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. 850/878-0554.

Tallahassee Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned.

Tallahassee Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright July 2011 Tallahassee Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Partners of Visit Tallahassee and Member, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and Florida Magazine Association.

one-year Subscription $30 (SIx issues) (850) 878-0554 Subscribe online at tallahasseemagazine.com or purchase Tallahassee Magazine at Borders Books, Barnes & Noble, Costco, Books-A-Million, Walgreens and at our Miccosukee Road office.

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Proud member Florida Magazine Association

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July 16, 2011 | 6pm | Hotel Duval Don’t wait�—�purchase your tickets now!

Last year’s event was a sell out and this year’s event is benefiting 18 different charities.

Tickets are $45 and include: Two drink coupons, heavy hors d’oeuvres and automatic entry to win a 3-day/2-night coastal getaway and complimentary use of a 2011 BMW 3 Series convertible from Capital Eurocars to drive there in style. Visit TallahasseeTopSingles.com for more information. And singles aren’t the only ones having fun, couples are invited too. Come support your single friends and their favorite charities!

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From the Publisher

Here They Go Again up the family for a summer vacation.

The same theme has been repeatedly echoed in other publications and on TV. Here we go again. The majority of tourists who visit our region in the summer drive here — and the last thing we need is another damper on what appears to be a recovering economy.

Instead of inducing fear in American families that a driving vacation will plummet them into bankruptcy, can we take a moment and put this into perspective?

Let’s do a little math. For an example, let’s take a family that lives 750 miles from Northwest Florida’s beaches or our beautiful capital city. If they drive a car that gets 15 miles per gallon, they would use 100 gallons for a roundtrip.

In the summer of 2010, retail gas prices hovered around $2.76 a gallon.

For 100 gallons, the cost would be $276. In the summer of 2011, the price for a gallon is now predicted to hit close to $4. For 100 gallons, the tab would be $400.

The difference: $124. For a weeklong vacation, that amounts to $17.71 a day.

Is that really going to keep the average American family at home, shuddering in fear under their beds? I don’t think so. If the budget is tight, eating a modest-priced dinner or lunch would even it out. Or buy one less T-shirt for each kid.

It’s unfortunate national media attention focuses so much on the negative when Americans, more than ever, need to hear some good news and be encouraged to become part of our nation’s — and our region’s — economic recovery.

The message I’d like to see? It’s time to go on a summer vacation. Get away from it all, even for a little while. Refresh your spirit and give your neighbors a little economic boost.

Brian Rowland, Publisher

Photo by Scott Holstein

This time last year, all one heard was never-ending doom and gloom over the oil gushing from BP’s Deepwater Horizon well and how it was affecting the beaches and wildlife along the Gulf Coast, including Northwest Florida.

Turning on the TV, one would see the same oil-coated bird over and over again — along with constant commentary about the oil heading toward the beaches and the expected tainting of the seafood supply.

In the end, other than a slight dusting of oil on the far western edges of the coast, Florida was mostly unaffected by the oil itself. Yet the perception that Florida’s beaches were covered with tar balls caused the bottom to fall out of our tourismbased economy. Phones rang off the hook with summer cancellations of resort and charter boat bookings and billions of dollars were lost during what is considered “the season” for our region.

By the end of summer, many coastal community businesses that directly relied on the tourism industry for their survival were destroyed or suffered major economic setbacks. And a trickle-down effect impacted many other businesses throughout Northwest Florida. While Tallahassee’s not exactly coastal, tourism is Florida’s No. 1 industry — a blow to the coast is a blow here and throughout the entire state.

The good news is BP has stepped up in a big way over the past year, pouring billions into the region’s economic and environmental recovery efforts. I have seen firsthand that it is working.

Spring Break was strong this year and many resorts are posting double-digit increases over their projections for summer reservations. Clearly, the public wants to come to Emerald Coast beaches to relax and escape from their everyday stresses.

But now we’re facing another media onslaught. Not over the oil threatening our beaches, but by high gas prices. A recent New York Times article proclaimed skyrocketing gas prices would prevent Americans from their annual ritual of loading

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From the Editor

From Dates to Mates There’s a certain ebb and flow to everyone’s social life. Depending on your age, you might be going to lots of graduations, or kids’ birthday parties, or football games or baby showers.

Of course, the whopper of all social events is the wedding, and when we’re in our 20s and 30s, they’re happening all the time. I went through a long dry spell once all my friends and relatives married off, but the pace is picking back up. I’ve been invited to three weddings so far this year because my peers’ children are getting to be of marriageable age. Make that four — weren’t we all invited to the Royal Wedding?

I do love a wedding. Always have. My mother was on the older end of a very large family, with siblings who were 10 to 15 years younger. Consequently, during an impressionable age, I was pretty much constantly going to weddings and their attendant festivities. I vividly remember with great fondness the decorations, chicken salad-stuffed creampuffs and other party foods, bouquet tossings, hairstyles (lots of teasing, curls and hairspray in that era) and the beautiful dresses.

Of course, I spent an inordinate amount of hours dreaming of my special day and, I have to admit, my wedding is definitely in the Top 5 Best Days of My Life. Now, I spend an inordinate amount of hours dreaming of my daughter’s wedding day. While there’s currently no groom on her horizon, she’s happy to let me contemplate whatever color schemes, floral arrangements and doo-dads I like — as long as I’m willing to pay for them.

I always look forward to the July/August issue, so I can read about and see the beautiful photos from the weddings of local brides and grooms. It’s so much fun to see how much care and attention to detail is lavished on these affairs. And all the different ways a couple gets to “I do” — from a fun New Year’s Eve bash to a family affair in the country, an elegant beach wedding to a service full of meaning and a reception touched with a little “Wizard of Oz” whimsy.

Every love story that ends in a wedding has to begin somewhere — and we’re hoping to play a little Cupid with our second batch of 18 Tallahassee Top Singles for 2011. The ladies and gentlemen featured in this issue are looking for a mate — well, at least a date — at a special event at the Hotel Duval set for July 16. A date auction is part of the festivities, so if a special someone catches your eye, be sure to join us and make a bid. It’s all in good fun and the auction proceeds will be donated to the charity of our single’s choice.

Hope to see you there.

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Letters to the Editor We Made a Mistake …

In the “One to Watch” page of the May/ June issue, Kathy Baughman-McLeod was incorrectly identified as an attorney. She leads the Public Policy Consulting group for the Bryant Miller Olive law firm, but is not an attorney.

… But She Likes Us Anyway Thank you for the wonderful feature in the May/June issue of Tallahassee Magazine! It was spot-on and beautifully laid out. I am so pleased to be in such a highquality, well-written and thoughtful publication that is such a nice reflection of our community.

Best regards, Kathy Baughman-McLeod Tulip Trot Success This note is to acknowledge your generous contribution by publishing an article and picture in Tallahassee Magazine (“Until There’s a Cure,” May/June 2011) for the North Florida Parkinson’s Awareness Group. Thanks to you, the May 14, 2011, second Tulip Trot was even more successful. We will continue our mission of raising awareness and education for those challenged by Parkinson’s Disease.

Janice Pedler

NEW BUS ROUTING WON’T IMPROVE SERVICE In the last issue of Tallahassee Magazine, the director of StarMetro stated that the Nova 2010 routing system would enable bus riders to reach their destinations with fewer transfers than they currently must make.

If you were to talk with current StarMetro customers, they would tell you it still hasn’t been proven to their satisfaction that actual trip times will decrease under Nova 2010.

The time sitting on the bus(es) may be shorter, but overall transit time — including probable longer walks to/from each end of the bus ride(s), as well as an often uncertain waiting time at transfer point(s) since buses will not be held to ensure connections.

StarMetro has traditionally maintained good adherence to schedules. Riders could depend on making their appointments for work, school and medical care because they knew the times the buses should arrive.

Bus riders will therefore be forced to spend additional time walking and changing buses on streets that are “more than twice as dangerous as the national average” as described in the study entitled “Dangerous by Design.”

John Plescow 16

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tallahassee

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QUICK READS people | items | places

Photo by Scott holStein

One tO watch

» William lamb

It all began with a child’s watercolor tray and the desire to impress his girlfriend. Tallahassee artist William Lamb copied a Winslow Homer picture of a waterscape to create a gift for his wife-to-be, Margaret. Nearly 20 years later, and after a lot of “piddlin’ with water colors and acrylics,” Lamb says, “that original piece is the only thing I will never sell.”

These days he’s piddlin’ with a lot more.

Out of a passion for art and the desire for a simpler lifestyle, Lamb created WM. Lamb & Son, a company that offers distinctly Southern home items, fine art and outerwear. “My

work grew from and reflects simple moments from a Southern family’s past: riding on your grandfather’s tractor or hunting with your dad on a painfully cold morning,” Lamb explains.

Reproductions of those poignant moments proved popular on printed T-shirts. Regional retailers began successfully selling Lamb’s garments last year. And Lamb, who has a background in finance management, quickly realized growth was possible.

Expanding to homewares was like “getting off the road and finding my own covey of quail.” Dinnerware has a Spode-meets-

Thomasville-plantation feel and features oak trees, quail and bird dogs. Fabrics, suitable for upholstery, lampshades and clothing, include several hunt-scene toiles and a cheeky camouflage pattern composed of game fowl in flight. “At a recent wildlife expo, people went crazy for the china and fabrics,” shares Lamb.

Lamb’s philosophy is not to let the world determine how he lives, but to express how we live in the South to the world. “Our Motto is ‘Wear it. Live it,’ ” says Lamb. “I’m selling a lifestyle.” — Lisa Carey

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QUICK READS fyi

Hello, Green Sheraton The ‘Round Holiday Inn’ Gets New Life as an Environmentally Friendly Hotel By Lisa Fingeroot

F

or 43 years, it has loomed over the intersection of Tennessee Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard, 12 stories tall with a distinctive design that makes it a local landmark.

While it has gone through several owners and recently fell on hard times, the building most commonly known throughout the years as the “Round Holiday Inn” is about to be reborn as a new Four Points By Sheraton hotel.

After a multimillion-dollar renovation to be completed by the end of 2011, operators say the building will go beyond being a place for tourists to stay while seeing the local sights and become an area attraction as Tallahassee’s first hotel to be nationally LEED certified as environmentally friendly and energy efficient.

The certification works on a rating system and is a guarantee from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program that the building meets, and its operators implement, green design, construction, operations and maintenance.

LEED certification for existing buildings examines many issues, including whole-building cleaning and maintenance and the use of chemicals, recycling programs, exterior maintenance programs and systems upgrades, according to the council’s website. The number of LEED-certified hotels in Florida was not available, but the state estimates less than 20

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700 hotels in the state carry some kind of environmentally friendly designation.

When completed, the hotel will feature green building materials such as renewable flooring in cork, teak or bamboo and will showcase filtered water stations around the property where guests can fill up drinking containers to reduce the use of plastic bottles.

The hotel will even have bicycles on site so guests can pedal around town while sightseeing instead of using their cars, reduce carbon emissions and make the “already beautiful Tallahassee an even better place to live,” said General Manager Bo Schmitz.

Hotel officials also plan for a “stylish bistro” and full-service bar on the premises to become hot Tallahassee night spots but aren’t yet ready to unveil their plans for that space, Schmitz said recently. House-made pastries will be featured in a separate coffee bar.

The building will have a Presidential Suite, 10 other suites, 164 guest rooms, 7,100 square feet of meeting and event space, propertywide complimentary wireless internet access, a fully equipped 24-hour fitness center and a year-round pool with regulation lap lanes.

Originally scheduled to open during the summer, company officials want the “finished product to be high quality” and have pushed back the grand opening to ensure quality standards, Schmitz said. Because the project is still in the works, the actual cost

of the renovation has not been determined, he added.

About 60 employees will be needed to get the hotel up and running, but Schmitz estimates he will need an additional 40 within six months of opening.

The owner, Union Hotel Company Tallahassee RLLP, also owns hotels in Grand Rapids, Mich., and Boulder, Colo., cities with similar demographics and similar business potential created by colleges and state government, Schmitz said. The company has been successful with renovation projects in the past, and choosing to renovate an existing building here is just another part of the company’s green philosophy. The project was recently called “a great example of a successful conversion property that is incorporating leading-edge green standards into its operations” in a hotel industry publication.

Schmitz, who recently moved to Tallahassee, has nearly 20 years of hotel management experience that includes the overseeing of the Hyatt Place company’s first LEEDcertified property.

Joining him is Director of Sales Cheryl Hatcher. Formerly chief sales and marketing officer for the Kentucky Department of Tourism, she led that department’s initiative to market Kentucky as a travel destination. She plans to use her experience to increase the number of visitors to downtown Tallahassee.

Photo by Scott Holstein

blueprint for success New owners predict an Earth-friendly sensibility and upgraded amenities will revive a Tallahassee landmark.

tallahassee

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QUICK READS generation next

Too Grown, Too Soon Experts Blame Obesity for Early Puberty in Today’s Young Girls By Lisa Fingeroot

W

hile first lady Michelle Obama’s campaign against childhood obesity has drawn national attention to the links between childhood weight and heart disease, diabetes and cancer in adults, a more immediate effect noticed by doctors and nutritionists hasn’t garnered quite as much publicity.

The higher percentage of body fat found in girls today is considered to be the leading cause of girls entering puberty earlier than ever before.

“Fat is a hormonally active substance,” said Dr. Larry Deeb, a Tallahassee pediatric endocrinologist for more than 30 years. “People think it (fat) just lays there on the body” but it isn’t a harmless material.

In the early 1900s, “a mother would “Being have had a stroke” if her 9-year-old mature daughter had started menstruating, just Deeb said. Over time, the average age of makes menstruation dropped from 18 to about 12 and then stayed constant from the you 1940s to the 1980s, when it began to mature, creep down again. it doesn’t As the average age dropped, the stanmean dard became weight-related, with the avyou act erage girl starting menstruation at about mature.”

100 pounds. The newest and most cur— Dr. rent standard for the onset of puberty is Larry between 9 and 12 years old.

Deeb Some evidence suggests boys also are starting the years-long process of puberty at an earlier age, but they don’t seem to move through the process as quickly as girls. Boys also do not seem to be as affected by weight, and at least one recent study suggests they may react in completely opposite ways — the onset of puberty may be slowed in overweight boys.

Deeb believes the hormones responsible for triggering puberty in girls are more susceptible to the effects of fat than those responsible for the same maturation in boys.

The body is not used to the quantity of carbohydrates, fats and proteins American children eat every day, said Barbara Goldstein, a WIC (Women, Infant and Children) program nutrition educator at the Leon County Health Department. Goldstein, who works with many pregnant teenagers, puts the blame for the earlier onset of puberty squarely on the shoulders of obesity.

Goldstein suspects some of her 15-year-old clients may be the societal results of early physical maturity, and there is some evidence to back up that suspicion by showing a link between the early onset of puberty and earlier sexual activity. Some studies also indicate girls are more sexually promiscuous when they develop earlier than their peers.

More documented research is needed before Deeb will 22

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speculate whether behavioral risks are greater among those who begin puberty earlier. “We will only know the answer to this (and also to whether these girls will have a higher rate of breast cancer) when they are all grown,” he said. “We would only be speculating.”

Deeb does, however, point out what every parent knows — physical maturity does not guarantee emotional maturity.

“Being mature just makes you mature, it doesn’t mean you act mature,” he said.

Parents need to understand the difference between the early onset of puberty, which could mean the beginning of breast development or the growth of pubic hair, and actual “early puberty,” which is a rare medical condition called “Precocious Puberty,” Tallahassee pediatrician Dr. Barbara Demby Abrams said.

Precocious Puberty is full-blown puberty in a child under 8 and is usually caused by the child’s internal clock malfunctioning.

Victims are usually treated to make puberty stop until a more appropriate age and, in Tallahassee, these children are usually referred to Deeb, who specializes in their treatment.

While Deeb can’t help much if a parent walks into his office with a 140-pound 7-year-old beginning to show the early signs of puberty, he suggests avoiding that possibility by starting kids early on a healthy diet and exercise. “There is not an American alive who does not know what healthy eating is,” he said. “Certainly the right answer from the get-go is to be active and run and play.”

Goldstein suggests checking out websites like choosemyplate.gov, where the USDA nutrition guide can be found as well as other nutritional information, or Obama’s letsmove. gov, where parents can find more information on raising healthy children.

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QUICK READS lifestyle

Show Your Toes

Inspired by the ’70s, these

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work well with bell-bottomed jeans or a cute floral mini. $59.99 Divas & Devils House of Style

These rope-sole canvas wedges are TOMS’ take on a casual summer classic.

And when you buy them, TOMS gives a pair of shoes to a child in need. $66 Cole Couture

It’s the time of year Go up, up and away in these

espadrilles with a high rope wedge by Hot Gossip. $44 Cole Couture

for your tootsies to declare their independence from confining footwear and appear in all their glory. Whether you choose casual flat sandals or sky-high platforms, you’re going to want to make sure your feet and toenails are in tip-top shape when they’re on display this summer. The polish trends for the season are pale shades of pink, lavender and sage from OPI’s Pirates of the Caribbean collection, says Tammy Nguyen, owner of Millenium Nail and Day Spa. Then, paint your toes with different shades of Shatter, a topcoat that gives your polish a crackled look. — Rosanne Dunkelberger

daniblack. $185 Narcissus

These unique flat sandals are made entirely of gold chains and would look equally as smashing with a flowing maxi dress or cutoff jeans shorts. $49.99 Divas & Devils House of Style 24

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Stephen Bonnano has the perfect casual sandal for you because they’re made to order after you pick the style, leather and lacing colors, and heel type. $125 The Grey Fox

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Editor’s Choice

Painting the Night Sky

I

solated in a sparsely wooded field off a barely discernable trail, the small windowless cement shed with white-stenciled lettering on its redpainted steel door clearly warned of explosive materials inside.

In the midday sun, three serious-minded individuals worked quietly and rapidly, extracting boxes of brown-packaged combustible materials from the shed’s dim interior and carefully loading them onto the bed of a pickup truck for transport. The three were intent on delivering the materials to a nearby staging area, visible through the trees on an adjacent field. Here, small groups of men worked diligently, digging narrow trenches, wiring firing mechanisms and putting into place mortars, rockets and blast shields, preparing for the coming engagement.

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Not military recruits, would-be terrorists or battleground re-enactors, these are amateur and professional fireworks aficionados, preparing for the staging of a grand finale display. Members of the statewide Florida Pyrotechnic Arts Guild (FPAG), these individuals have been gathering nearly every fall for the last 20 years in a remote farm near the Leon County line in Jefferson County for three days of fun, learning, product demonstrations, business deals, friendly competitions and spectacular fireworks displays.

Participants will tell you the annual gathering — equal parts festival, business meeting and trade show — affords them an opportunity to indulge their love of pyrotechnics: handcrafting and setting off fireworks; meeting and exchanging ideas with like-minded people, some of whom

are masters in the field; acquiring new skills and techniques in the art of fireworksmaking; learning about the latest products and innovations in the industry; and getting to see some of the best firework displays anywhere.

And it all takes place in a remote, bucolic country setting where city lights don’t mar the night skies, the explosions don’t disturb neighbors and participants are free to pitch their tents or park their RVs and camp out.

Although the three-day gathering in Monticello is nowhere near as large, old or well-known as the weeklong convention that the Pyrotechnics Guild International Inc. holds each summer in the northern states, it’s not uncommon for the Monticello gathering to draw hundreds of fireworks lovers and their families from

Photo courtesy Terri Smith Photo

Pyrotechnicians Gather to Put the ‘Wow’ in Your Fourth of July Fireworks By Lazaro Aleman

2010

BEST GIFT SHOP

Photo: AJ Abellera | Dancers: Haley Iliff (student since 2000) and Sarah Huff (student since 2009)

around Florida, other states and even other countries. And the event accounts for hundreds of thousands of dollars in business transactions and showcases some of the field’s cutting edge designs, techniques and technologies.

The pyrotechnics industry has its origins in ancient China (when a cook combined charcoal, sulphur and saltpeter to create gunpowder), and in 2009 alone generated $945 million in revenues in the United States, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association. With passionate adherents worldwide, practitioners of the art add sparkle and pizzazz to everything from birthdays and wedding parties, to indoor rock concerts, amusement park shows and outdoor celebrations such as the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve. At the Monticello event, one is likely to encounter notable industry figures such as Tom DeWillie, a pioneer of indoor pyrotechnics and founder of Luna Tech, which once provided the special stage effects for such music acts as The Animals, Ted Nugent, Pink Floyd, Kiss and other rock bands; Jim Widmann, inventor and manufacturer of a computerized shell pasting machine that may well revolutionize the process; and Tom Rebenklau, renowned in the industry as a rocketry wizard. Not to mention countless fireworks manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, industry regulators and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Convention attendees will tell you they are learners at heart and that their creations are largely labors of love. Indeed, they will dedicate innumerable hours designing and fashioning fireworks that, if the devices perform according to plan, will have a lifespan of minutes at best and bring them no reward other than the “wows” of the audience and the joy of knowing that they did it.

How many hours exactly? Rebenklau, who modestly describes himself as a hobbyist, but whom everyone else acknowledges as a master in the field of rocketry, smiled. He estimated he had spent approximately 300 hours on the rocket display that he was even then fine-tuning for Saturday evening’s grand finale. And what was its life’s expectancy?

“It should last about seven minutes, if all goes according to plan,” Rebenklau said.

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Editor’s Choice

“We could be given identical amounts of ingredients and formulas and, like in cooking, we would still derive different effects.” — W.O. Bullock Artists in their own right, fireworks operators aim to awe and entertain with their artistry, which in their case takes the form of spectacular, choreographed bursts of lights, colors and sounds, played out against the backdrop of a night sky.

We’re talking symphonic explosions and brilliant pulses of multicolored lights that in turn set off whistling streaks, shooting stars, glittering sparkles, spinning wheels, crisscrossing streamers, cascading waterfalls of fire and other stunning audio-visual effects that elicit appreciative “oohs” and “ahs” from audiences. The names of the effects are descriptive in themselves: peony, chrysanthemum, dahlia, willow, palm, spider, fish, horsetail and time rain, among others.

The true art, however, lies in the timing of the fuse-induced explosions and how the aerial shells and rockets break and spread their contents — actions predetermined by the pyrotechnicians, based on the arrangements and combinations of chemicals and metals, such as oxidizers, reducing and coloring agents, binders, regulators and more — that they mix into each “star” or clump that goes into a cylindrical or spherical shell. The mixture not only gives each display its unique signature, it also gives the entire enterprise an element of danger, which can result in dire consequences if the ingredients are mishandled, and which explains the government’s heavy regulation of the industry, especially post 9/11.

But mix the ingredients just right (many of the formulas are closely guarded secrets, not unlike family cooking recipes), and the result can be quite satisfying audio-visual feasts.

Pyrotechnicians are not unlike the alchemists of old, except that where the latter failed to convert base metals into gold, 28

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pyrotechnicians generally succeed at taking common everyday items such as cane, paper and strings and transforming them into results that are quite stunning and mesmerizing.

W.O. Bullock is just such an artist, as well as being a licensed pyrotechnics manufacturer and the man who hosts the FPAG fall conventions on his family’s 150acre farm in rural Jefferson County. Because Bullock is a licensed manufacturer, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives, which regulates the industry, permits the activity on his property.

Besides being building inspector for Monticello and Jefferson County, Bullock is owner/operator of Pyro Works, a Monticello-based pyrotechnics company that annually stages Monticello’s highly rated Fourth of July fireworks show and also produces shows in other north Florida communities and as far away as the Caribbean on occasions.

Like most pyrotechnics enthusiasts, Bullock’s fascination with fireworks dates from boyhood, when his father bought him his first firecrackers and sparklers. A traditionalist, as Bullock calls himself, he likes to make his gunpowder from scratch and hand manufacture his cylindrical and spherical aerial shells (which he produces in halves), using the papier-mâché method of layering one application of paper over another until the desired thickness is achieved. Extremely time-consuming and methodic as this process is — it can take weeks to make a single shell — Bullock says he finds the exercise personally satisfying and somewhat therapeutic, like a form of meditation.

Before sealing the halves together, Bullock will pack each shell with the appropriate mix of gunpowder, chemicals and metals, using for his measurements and combinations either a personal or an industry-standard formula that is supposed to assure the desired audio/visual effect.

Although many formulas are secret, particularly among the bigger companies, a lot of the information gets shared nowadays, especially given the nature of the Internet.

Even so, the results tend to be unique.

“We could be given identical amounts of ingredients and formulas and, like in cooking, we would still derive different effects,” Bullock says.

He calls pyrotechnics an evolving field, and one that has certainly come far from its humble origins. Indeed, it’s that evolution and the endless possibilities of effects,

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Editor’s Choice in combination with the constant innovations in the industry, that keeps pyrotechnicians’ interest lively as they strive to develop new products and effects that define them personally or score big in the industry — or, at best, do both.

As in other fields, it’s often the case that hobbyists contribute the innovations because they are willing to experiment, Bullock says. Unfortunately, it is also often the case that hobbyists don’t document their experiments, which means the results can’t always be readily duplicated.

Bullock says he is, at heart, an entertainer.

“I find pyrotechnics mystifying,” he says.

“It’s something I enjoy doing, and I also enjoy other people seeing the fireworks and being mesmerized by them. That audience feeling is conveyed to me. It’s like a singer doing a performance and getting a standing ovation. If it’s done right, everybody applauds, and you know it.”

He will also tell you that, not unlike many a stage performer, he gets deathly ill with nerves right before each show. True, he depends on a host of trained volunteers to assist him with the setup and the firing of the fireworks (the preparations alone can take a good day or more for a 30-minute display), but he ultimately answers for the show, good or bad, he says. And once the fireworks start, there is no calling back a mistake or doing a retake if something goes awry. At best, he may have seconds to react and correct a potential mishap, by manually overriding a particular segment in the series of preplanned and sequential firings that he controls via wires from a remote switchboard.

In terms of safety and error elimination, the electrical firing system he currently employs is vastly superior to the old-fashioned method of individually igniting the fireworks by hand, Bullock explains. His hope, however, is eventually to be able to upgrade to a computerized firing system. Not only do computerized systems assure almost flawless performances, they also afford the fireworks operators the luxury of being able to sit back and enjoy their own shows.

For sheer spectacular state-of-the-art fireworks displays and cutting edge developments, few shows can top the FPAG grand finales, where some of the best professionals in the field compete to impress and outdo each other.

A little girl at last fall’s grand finale show possibly best summed up the display: “Mama, it’s a fairyland.” n 30

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Dentist Office

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On The Move

Unplug From the Electronics and Enjoy a Hike at Leon Sinks By Gibby Conrad

R

emember when you were a kid, sitting on the couch on Saturday morning “glued” to the TV? Mom would come in and say, “Turn that off and go outside and play. It’s nice out.”

Reluctant to leave the cartoons, you’d let 32

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out a deep sigh, drag yourself off the couch and go get on your bike. Though you hated to admit it, Mom was right. It was nice outside. You probably didn’t come back inside until she called you for supper.

It’s still nice outside, but today we have even more distractions to keep us from

going outside to play. Statistics show the average American spends 90 percent of his or her life indoors. Hard to believe, but if you think about how we live our modern lives, you realize how true it is. We eat, sleep, work and play in climate-controlled environments. Our busy lives and

Photo courtesy Todd Szuch

Go Outside and Play

Take a Hike Leon Sinks offers short and longer trails where it’s possible for beginner naturalists to see several sinkholes, as well as a variety of wildlife and flora.

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electronic distractions combine to isolate us from the natural world and make it easy to forget we are an integral part of it.

One of the advantages of living in Tallahassee is the abundance and diversity of publicly held lands surrounding us. Many unique and beautiful places are just a short drive from town and can be experienced in a morning or an afternoon.

A good example is the Leon Sinks site on Highway 319 (Crawfordville Highway) about five miles south of town. How many times have you driven past that little brown sign and wondered what was back there?

What’s back there is a unique and beautiful North Florida wilderness area and a great place to spend a few hours outside.

The Leon Sinks Geological Area is part of the Apalachicola National Forrest. The site contains 4.7 miles of hiking trails that wind through tupelo swamps, mixed hardwood forests and pine/wiregrass sandhills.

But the main attraction is the 18 wet and dry sinkholes found along the trails. Sinkholes are formed when rain and groundwater dissolve the limestone bedrock, causing the surface layer to collapse and form a hole or depression in the ground. The limestone bedrock beneath Leon Sinks is part of the 450-square-mile Woodville Karst Plain, which contains numerous sinks, springs and underground cave systems.

When you arrive at the Leon Sinks site you’ll find an honor box at the gate for the $3 entrance fee. Restrooms and an information kiosk are located at the trailhead.

The trails, which form a circle through the property are for hiking only (no bikes), but dogs are allowed on a leash. The Crossover Trail allows you to choose a shorter hike and still make a circle. The longer route is just over four miles. All trails are well marked with signage and color blazes painted on the trees. While there is some elevation change, overall it is an easy hike.

Going counterclockwise from the trailhead, you will start out on the Gum Swamp Trail. The first sink is the Gopher Hole, named for the gopher tortoise burrows that can be seen on the property.

This sink resembles a cave rather than a depression in the ground. Continuing on,

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On The Move

What to Take

Getting Started If you’re new to natural pursuits, you might have questions and concerns about how to prepare for an enjoyable experience outdoors.

The easiest way to get started is to just go out and take a walk. Hiking in North Florida doesn’t require mountain climbing skills, you won’t have to know how to survive in a snow cave or worry about being eaten by some large predator.

Here’s some advice on how to make your hike more enjoyable: There are two common areas of concern when someone is first getting involved in outdoor activities — getting lost and encountering wild animals. While both things should be addressed, they’re not something to be overly concerned about.

Most trails in Florida’s park system are wellmarked and easy to follow. Maps of the trails are available at the ranger stations and sometimes at the trailheads. If you are still unsure, look for guided hikes. Many parks offer ranger-guided hikes and there are more and more private eco-tour guides available for hire. A guided hike not only offers assurance, but also a wealth of knowledge that will enhance your experience.

Another thing to consider is a handheld GPS. But your best defense against getting lost is just paying attention to your surroundings.

In spite of our isolated modern lives, many of us still have a deep-seated fear of wild animals.

However, the animals to be most concerned with in North Florida are insects, not alligators, bears or even snakes. While there is an abundance of wildlife in the Northwest Florida region, you’ll learn that spotting animals is a treat, not a threat. The thing to remember in all wildlife encounters is to view from a distance and don’t be stupid. Most wild animals don’t want anything to do with humans.

As you spend more time exploring the natural areas you will become more and more comfortable. You may find that you are most interested in birds or wildflowers or trees or even reptiles. You might get involved in cycling or kayaking or photography. Or you might be content with just taking a walk and enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Now that you have the basics, pick a park and get started. — Gibby Conrad

the trail goes through three marked tupelo gum swamps. These swamps are dominated by tupelo trees, but there are a few bald cypresses with their buttressed bases and knees. Leaving the swamps behind, the trail starts to rise and the plants change to pines and saw palmettos. Pines dominate at the site, but there are a wide variety of 34

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Proper Shoes A good pair of shoes is your most important equipment investment. You don’t go for a five-mile hike in the woods wearing flip-flops.

A good pair of walking shoes will work, but a pair of waterproof hiking boots or shoes is better. It’s not unusual to walk through some wet ground. Start out with shorter hikes and work your way up. This will give you — and your new shoes — a chance to get broken in.

Water Bottle Florida is hot and it’s easy to get dehydrated. Bring along a bottle of water and sip on it throughout the hike. Be realistic about how much water you will need. You want to have enough, but you probably aren’t going to want to carry a gallon of water around.

Insect Repellant Mosquitoes, gnats and biting flies can ruin an outdoor activity. Be prepared by carrying a repellant with you. You will hear all kinds of home remedies for keeping the bugs away like Skin So Soft or rubbing yourself with dryer sheets, but the most effective repellants are the ones that have a high DEET content. This stuff is probably not very good for your health, so don’t slather it on before you leave. Bring it with you and use it if bugs become a problem.

Sun Protection The sun can be brutal. Evaluate your exposure and prepare accordingly. If you are going to the beach or out on the water, you’ll have a higher exposure than a winter hike in the woods. Sunscreen is a must, and a wide-brimmed hat also helps.

These are the essentials, but there are other things that can heighten your experience, such as a pair of binoculars, a camera, a shell (rain jacket), a guidebook and a GPS. When you have this much stuff, you need a good daypack to carry it in — and then you have to carry the pack.

Don’t go out and buy a bunch of gadgets. Start out simple and put your pack together when you decide what you want. Remember, the important thing is to get outside and have a good time.

Sturdy Pack

Insect Repellant

Water Bottle Proper Shoes

hardwoods, too. Deer tracks are numerous on the trails and, if you are lucky, you might spot the animals.

At the point where all three trails intersect on the west side of the property, there are a series of interconnected geologic features. Fisher Creek flows north to a point where it disappears into a sink, flows

Sun Protection

under a natural bridge, then re-emerges briefly only to disappear for good at Lost Stream Sink. This spot is definitely one of the highlights of the hike.

From this point, if continuing on the longer route, you will be on the Sinkhole Trail and the topography changes to pine and wiregrass sandhills. As the trail starts

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On The Move

to descend, the next feature is Magnolia Sink, surrounded by its namesake trees. Big Dismal Sink has an observation platform that extends out over its dramatic 130-foot depths and its steep, shaded banks support a wide diversity of plant species. Hammock Sink is located near the end of the trail. The water in this sink changes from an incredible clear blue/green to brown at different times.

Leon Sinks is just one of many opportunities for Tallahassee residents to get out and spend some time reconnecting to the natural world.

The Lake Jackson Mounds site on the north side of town has a trail that goes through a very unusual miniature ravine ecosystem. Wakulla Springs has a number of trails in addition to the spring and river.

The St. Marks Wildlife Refuge offers miles and miles of trails and an abundance of wildlife to observe.

These are just a few of the state and federal lands available to us, waiting to be explored. Keep in mind when you are visiting that it’s not a race to see how quickly you can finish. Slow down and use all of your senses to fully appreciate the experience.

Use your eyes to notice the details. Stop and listen to the birds and the wind in the trees and take a deep breath of fresh air. If you are really engaged in the experience, you’ll find yourself wondering about the things surrounding you: What kind of bird was that? Why is this water so dark? What kind of plant is that and why does it grow here?

When you start asking these questions and seeking the answers, you’ll have a greater understanding of, and appreciation for, the environment we’re all a part of.

Leave all the electronic distractions behind for a few hours — you can do it. The world will be there when you get back. Go outside and play; you’ll be glad you did. n 36

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Photo courtesy Todd Szuch

Hammock Sink This is one of the sinkholes you find when hiking Leon Sinks, this one is known for its color-changing waters.

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Giving Back

‘R’ is for Reuse Castaways Get a New Life at The Sharing Tree

By Rosanne Dunkelberger

R

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scooped up a pile of paper fans on sticks.

With the application of glitter and gemstones and the words “Mom’s Biggest Fan,” they would be reincarnated by the youngsters as bedazzled Mother’s Day gifts.

On an earlier visit, Mayewski nabbed some cardboard that could be folded into what looked like miniature pizza boxes.

The children made paper pizzas, she said, put on their favorite toppings and used the slices to study fractions.

“I bring stuff here, and I take it away,” she said. “I love this place, and I’m usually at my limit every month.”

All local teachers can shop and take $20 worth of supplies for free each month.

Since The Sharing Tree opened in August 2010, it has served more than 2,500 teachers and given away more than $150,000 worth of free stuff.

In the beginning, the facility was only for teachers. “It kind of broke my heart,

Photo by Scott Holstein

educe. Reuse. Recycle. While the third “R” of sustainable living gets the lion’s share of our green-oriented attention, the second is the raison d’etre for The Sharing Tree, the area’s year-old reusable resource center.

Housed in a small building tucked in the farthest corner of Lively Technical Center, the community-wide effort that was years in the making collects our castoffs and gives them a chance at a second life.

Originally created to help supply teachers with materials they could use in the classroom, everyone is now invited to visit and “dig a little” for its “gems and treasures.”

Those are the words of Carly Sinnadurai, The Sharing Tree’s executive director and lone employee, who is also an artist and passionate advocate for creative reuse.

“I grew up in Minneapolis, and we had a reusable resource center there,” said Sinnadurai, who worked at that center as well as one in San Francisco, before coming to study at Florida State University. “We’d go once a week and fill up our bags with all this crazy, random stuff. My mom might have hated it, but we didn’t care, and we’d make stuff.”

All of the products offered at The Sharing Tree are donated by individuals, local businesses and governmental organizations.

Some are what one might expect to find — books, paper, school supplies and binders (lots of binders, so many in so many sizes that they’re usually given away for free) — while other objects, such as a giant roll of lingerie hook-and-eye closures, require a little imagination as to their reuse.

Debbie Mayewski, who teaches special needs students at Chaires Elementary,

Creative Reuse Executive Director Carly Sinnadurai shows off some of the art projects that are possible using supplies from The Sharing Tree.

I had to say ‘no’ to a lot of people,” Sinnadurai said. But since earlier this year, the general public can buy an annual membership — ranging in price from $15 to $100 — and shop at will, taking advantage of special incentives and events such as “Bag It Up,” where shoppers can fill a recyclable shopping bag for $5.

Sinnadurai also envisions The Sharing Tree sponsoring “workshops on how to make stuff out of pretty much nothing.

What you’d normally consider trash.”

The Sharing Tree is a cooperative effort of four local organizations: Leon County Schools, Goodwill Industries of the Big Bend, Leon County and Sustainable Tallahassee.

The school system donates the building and utilities, while Goodwill agreed to pay Sinnadurai’s salary for the first year.

While a certain amount of serendipity was involved in its creation — many of its original proponents were networked and served on a recycling committee together — The Sharing Tree also owes its existence to their tenacity. Initial plans to create a countywide reuse center fell through when the economy tanked but were revived when the school system worked out its deal with Goodwill.

“It’s been cool (but) it hasn’t been a cinch,” said Bill Berlow, formerly an editorial writer for the Tallahassee Democrat and now policy coordinator at Leon County Schools, who has worked on the project since its inception. Much of The Sharing Tree’s success, he said, can be credited to Sinnadurai, who he describes as “artistic, passionate and funny.” Donations flooded in on her first day on the job from FSU, which had been saving supplies; the Department of Revenue, which donated furniture after moving its office to the new SouthWood facility; and Goodwill.

“People came expecting a dank, dark warehouse. She turned a building in disrepair that really hadn’t been used, except for storage, into a store,” he said. “If there was ever a perfect candidate for a job, she was it.”

While her inventory is ever-changing and unpredictable, Sinnadurai manages to

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Giving Back

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J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

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Want to Donate?

The items below are just a few of the things that can be reused by The Sharing Tree. For a more complete list, visit the store’s website. Donations can be dropped off at The Sharing Tree or at any Goodwill donation center (specify that the donation is for The Sharing Tree).

Art supplies Baskets Beads Books Buttons Cards Cardstock Compasses Corks Costumes Crayons Dowels Egg Cartons Erasers

Envelopes Fabrics Foam Frames Glitter Games Magazines Money Movies Paint Ribbon Shoe boxes Spools Yarn

Space is limited at the facility, so before donating large quantities or large items, such as furniture, call Sinnadurai at (850) 487-7568 or email her at carly@thesharingtreefl.org.

The Sharing Tree Lively Technical Center 500 N. Appleyard Drive, Building 6 (850) 487-7568 | thesharingtreefl.org Shopping Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon–6 p.m.; Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Photo by Scott Holstein

Open for Business Originally reserved for teachers, now anybody can shop at The Sharing Tree by purchasing an annual membership, which starts at $15.

maintain order, with art and school supplies in one bright room (featuring suggested art projects using repurposed water bottles and paper towel rolls), another full of books and a third with office supplies, including brand new bubble envelopes and stacks of dot matrix printer paper (“Great for practicing handwriting,” the sign says.)

A huge boost came from Tallahasseean Courtney Glazer, who, after closing her scrapbooking store in Jacksonville, donated leftover products, a copier and scanner, store fixtures and a sophisticated point-ofsale register system to The Sharing Tree.

Glazer had heard of a similar reuse center in Jacksonville, but was keen to keep her donation close to home. “I found out they were trying to do this here in Tallahassee, and I was excited to donate,” she said. The gift filled two trucks (donated by a local carpet company) and was worth about $35,000.

The ultimate goal is for The Sharing Tree to become self sustaining — hence the membership fees as well as fundraising projects such as a celebrity waiter event in the spring. It’s future isn’t a done deal, but Berlow said he is hopeful. “We’re not just serving teachers anymore. It’s a great community asset,” he said. “Everybody gets how good this is on so many levels.” n tallahassee

41

Personality

‘Always There when you need her’

S

itting on the sun porch of her expansive home overlooking Lake Jackson, Sylvia Ochs has time now to reflect on a lifetime of amazing achievement.

She looks out on a vista that has calmed her through the years while she was in charge of so many diverse programs, people began to describe her as “the woman who can do anything.” She has blazed a trail of “firsts” in everything from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital galas to Fourth of July celebrations to the Maclay Gardens Pops in the Park to the Red Hills Horse Trials to the Tallahassee Performing Arts Center.

A workaholic of diverse talents and 42

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enormous energy, Ochs (whose name is pronounced “oaks,” like the tree) says she is on a self-assigned “sabbatical” now.

She’s taking a deep breath after all the lasting legacies she has helped to found.

But those who know her best say she has never considered her many achievements to be burdensome, anyway. Instead, she approaches everything with her signature sense of humor and copious amounts of joie de vivre because she feels, “if it’s not fun it’s simply not worth doing.”

A woman of diverse talents and interests, Ochs is known for her ability to bring people together — her imaginative sense of adventure and her determined devotion to

organizations and programs have made a lasting difference to the local community.

No matter how big the program or the goal, when doors of opportunity appeared, she had the vision to open them.

“There is nothing she can’t do,” said her longtime friend, community leader Gayle Nelson. And the tall, slender Ochs lives up to her reputation. She is a pilot and former operating-room nurse. She has a beautiful singing voice and plays the piano, violin and French horn. She is a terrific tennis player and a gourmet cook. And she is a highly skilled accounting expert who has guided dozens of organizations to fiscal efficiency.

Prominent civic leader Paula Smith said

Photo by Scott Holstein

Sylvia Ochs Leaves a Lasting Legacy By Virginia Newman

‘IMPATIENT AND IRREVERENT’ Now on “sabbatical,” for decades Sylvia Ochs combined a fun-loving style with hard work to launch community projects such as Red Hills Horse Trials.

she and Ochs have joined forces on several important community programs. Both previously served on the original board of directors of the proposed Florida Center for Performing Arts and Education and a long list of Junior League of Tallahassee activities (both are former League presidents).

“Sylvia is someone I can always depend on for her good advice, knowledge, experience, complete thoroughness and dedication to the task at hand,” said Smith.

Echoing the general feeling that Ochs can do anything she sets out to do, Smith said, “It would be hard to find a single phrase to describe her many talents. On a personal note, Sylvia and Gayle planned and directed our daughter Jennifer’s wedding and reception. It was all perfectly gorgeous.”

Tallahassee’s Volunteer of the Year in 1981, Ochs has lavished her time and skills on many groups. She has raised millions of dollars for civic projects, having been on the front lines of the campaign to build a new public library, the creation of Maclay Gardens Pops in the Garden and Moon Over Maclay fundraisers, and the move of Tallahassee’s 4th of July Celebrate America from tiny Lake Ella to its incarnation as a Tom Brown Park extravaganza.

Her interests have included the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, Tallahassee Civic Ballet, Florida Heritage Foundation, Monticello Opera House, Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Sciences and LeMoyne Foundation.

Although the hats in life that Ochs has worn are many, her love for horses has been a constant thread woven through most of those years.

Today, her name has become synonymous with the Red Hills Horse Trials (RHHT), which she and Sallie Ausley organized in 1998. The two have combined work and wits for decades, dating back to when their daughters were in the Tallahassee branch of the U.S. Pony Clubs, Inc., and they shared hauling a horse trailer to far-flung road adventures on horse show weekends.

“Sylvia is the most organized, hardworking person you will ever meet,” says tallahassee

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Ausley. “But she makes everything so much fun, you don’t mind the work.”

The Red Hills Horse Trials, a project that was to join them at the hip and consume their lives for the next 10 years, came about “like a lightning bolt out of the blue,” Ochs recalled. “Sallie and I heard that Tallahassee ecologist and horse enthusiast Colin Phipps was building a cross country course on his property called ‘The Farm’ off Meridian Road. He had asked Captain Mark Phillips (Chef d’Equipe and Technical Advisor for the United States Equestrian Team and a former member of Great Britain’s Olympic team) to design it and Scotland’s Hugh Lochore to build it.

“Sallie and I had a lot of experience with horse trials, and we thought this was a great opportunity to establish a quality event in Tallahassee,” said Ochs. “Colin was very receptive, and Sallie and I began to twist every arm, bend every ear and look in every nook and cranny to find financial support.”

It took about two years for everything to be in place for the first RHHT in 1998.

Since its inception, it has become one of the premier equestrian eventing competitions in the United States. Held annually on the beautiful grounds of Elinor Klapp-Phipps Park in northeast Tallahassee off Meridian road, riders from 11 countries and 28 states competed in the prestigious United States Equestrian Association (USEA) Adequan Gold Cup event this year, including Olympic competitors.

Named for the sloping terrain and rich red earth of the region, the Red Hills community embraces this nationally recognized event with support from more than 400 volunteers. “Each year, we literally build a city in a few weeks,” Ochs observed. “We must lay out the course for four dressage rings, the stadium jumping and cross country course, stabling, the ‘Red Hills Avenue of Shops’, ‘Saddlers’ Row’, the food court, and a variety of exhibits, educational demonstrations and park and botanical tours.

It’s a huge undertaking, but we put it all up and take it all down in a remarkably short time.”

More than 25,000 spectators come out to enjoy the competition of the top riders. “We initially feared we would be seen as a little elitist,” Ochs said. “But we haven’t seen that in the people who come. I continue to be overwhelmed by the number of people who come out who aren’t horse people.”

Red Hills Horse Trials gives back to the community, donating $325,000 to its charitable beneficiaries, Elinor Klapp-Phipps

“We initially feared we would be seen as a little elitist. But we haven’t seen that in the people who come. I continue to be overwhelmed by the number of people who come out who aren’t horse people.”

— Sylvia Ochs

Park and the Tall Timbers Research Foundation, Inc., over the years.

Ochs and Ausley were volunteers the entire time they spearheaded RHHT, accepting no salaries for their fulltime work.

When they resigned from their posts with the organization in 2006, a staff had to be hired to replace them.

Although she no longer rides and she has “retired” from day-to-day operations of RHHT, she still pitches in to help as needed. “I can’t seem to say no,” she says.

“I love being around horses.”

Although none ride horses today, all of her now-adult children liked to ride growing up and were active participants in the Tallahassee branch of the Pony Club. Her daughter, Lisa Perry, has carried on her mother’s traditional love for horses by currently serving as RHHT Event Administrator, a title that covers anything and everything to do with the organization’s operations. Her other grown children are Karla Newton, who now lives in Jacksonville, and George, a podiatrist in Albuquerque, N.M. Perry says of her mother, “She’s a fabulous lady and a great role model, always there when you need her. And both of us enjoy living in the same community with lots of the same interests.”

Ochs taught a generation of Tallahassee youngsters the basics of horse care and safety as a Pony Club instructor, and the family became regular riders at the late Arvah Hopkins’ Double D Stables on Miccosukee Road. She rose through

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Personality the echelons of Pony Club to eventually become a member of the organization’s national board of directors.

But those activities weren’t all for kids.

She gets a mischievous grin on her face when she remembers that early on she taught an adult class of prominent super-achievers at Double D. All Scorpios, the women had been celebrating their birthdays together for years, and one year they decided they wanted Ochs to teach them to ride.

The group included women who are now considered her lifelong friends: Nelson, then a Leon County commissioner; Mary Pankowski, then Florida State University assistant vice president for academic affairs and director of the Center for Professional Development; FSU sociology professor Pat Martin; and Margaret Lynn Duggar, then Florida Department of Aging and Adult Services Secretary.

After months of lessons, Duggar fell off her horse during a jump session. “Get right back on,” Ochs commanded, and Duggar meekly complied. That night, though, Duggar learned that her arm had actually been broken. The accident interrupted the routine of the classes, and they never resumed.

Born in Walton, N.Y., Ochs graduated with honors from New York University’s Bellevue School of Nursing. She moved to Tallahassee in 1969 with her husband, Dr. David Ochs. Later divorced, after many years she went back to Walton to take care of her elderly parents and reconnected with an old schoolmate who still lived there, Peter Murphy. They were married, and Murphy, an electrical engineer, moved to Tallahassee and became associated with the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (Mag Lab). He died in 2005.

After her mother died, she brought her dad back to Tallahassee to live with her.

Now he also is deceased, but he taught her to fly airplanes, and that became just one of her skills in reaching great heights in so many aspects of her life.

A friend summed up this woman of determination and imagination by saying, “Impatient and irreverent, Sylvia is a role model for the rest of us. She invites people to not only think outside of the box, but to tear it apart, repurpose it into something fabulous and stand on it to reach for the stars. She’s equally as comfortable working the nitty-gritty as she is in a leadership position.” n

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Historicity

‘Unhappy Weeds and Death’ Yellow Fever Was the Scourge of Tallahassee and Surrounding Towns in 1841 By Jason Dehart

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Cold air and warm temperatures were also said to be unhealthy. People kept covered up to prevent these vapors and “bad airs” from invading the body and upsetting their internal “humours.”

In this climate of incorrect knowledge, it’s not surprising that warm and humid Southern towns surrounded by “unhealthy” swampland would be considered bad places to live or visit. Tallahassee was no exception.

“Sometime early in its history, Tallahassee acquired a reputation of being an unhealthy town set down in the midst of an unhealthy countryside,” reported historian Bertram H. Groene in his 1971 book, “Ante-bellum Tallahassee.” Groene wrote, “This was not unusual; for most of the frontier towns in the South, especially those near the coast, were subject to periodic outbreaks of malaria and the dreaded yellow fever.”

Photo Courtesy Library of Congress

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lizabeth Andrews’ obituary in the Tallahassee Floridian paints a sympathetic portrait of just one of perhaps hundreds who died in and around Tallahassee during a frightful outbreak of yellow fever in the summer of 1841.

Wife of former Floridian editor Samuel S. Sibley, Andrews was 34 when the fever took her that year, just days after the family moved to Port. St. Joe. The Aug. 7 edition of the paper described it this way: “Removed from her kind relatives and friends, and deprived of that medical skill, so essential in this desperate disease, she fell a prey to its ravages, and was hurried away from the scene of her earthly happiness, leaving a husband and two children to grieve over their sad and irreparable loss.”

Unfortunately, even when available, medical skill couldn’t always save someone in the throes of the often-deadly disease.

There’s no cure for it even today — just prevention and treatment of symptoms.

Thanks to modern science, we’ve learned how the disease is carried and transmitted, which has allowed countless lives to be saved in the United States.

However, back in 19th century America, theories of disease and how people got sick were very primitive. There was no understanding of the role played by microscopic viruses and parasites in the transmission of disease. Illnesses — especially malaria — were often blamed on the fumes of decomposing organic matter rising out of nearby marshes, swamps and filthy frontier streets. These “poisonous” vapors had many names, such as miasma or noxious effluvia, and they seeped out — especially at night — to wreak havoc on unsuspecting townsfolk careless enough to leave a window open.

Everything from cholera to malaria and even the Black Death were supposedly caused by these mysterious, evil vapors.

Yellow Jack With no cure and no understanding of how the disease was transmitted at the time, yellow fever was depicted as a monster ravening Florida in this 1873 etching.

In June 1832, Martha Bradford of the Pine Hills Plantation (located a few miles outside Tallahassee) received a letter from her cousin in North Carolina telling her in no uncertain terms that unless Tallahassee “proves healthier than it has done lately I shall not be very anxious to move … .

When we move I would prefer a healthy country to a rich and sickly one.”

This criticism seemed justified at the time, because just a year before, in 1831, a serious epidemic of what could have been yellow fever hit Tallahassee. The editor of the local newspaper dismissed the incident as “greatly exaggerated” and estimated the mortality rate “at about one in 60 persons,” Groene said. That statistic amounts to a death rate of 16 in a city of less than 1,000 residents, he estimated.

Yellow fever was an ancient disease even in the 19th century and not just a problem for small Southern towns. Notable outbreaks happened in Philadelphia in 1699, 1741, 1762 and 1793. Ships coming from the West Indies often carried the disease to the Americas, but scientists struggled to find its root cause, and it was believed to be contagious.

Today we know that’s not the case. It’s a virus transmitted to humans by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and not by human-to-human contact. But back then all of that was a mystery. It wasn’t until after the Spanish-American War that the U.S. Army Yellow Fever Commission proved conclusively that Aedes aegypti was the “vector,” or organism, that transmitted the disease (the Army’s work was based on an earlier hypothesis by Cuban doctor and scientist Carlos Finlay).

What wasn’t a mystery were the symptoms, which could be terrifying. The virus ran in one or two phases. In the first phase, symptoms featured chills, fever, headache, severe backache and weakness, accompanied by nausea. Then, the symptoms subside and, in some cases, the patient recovers. But in 15 percent of cases, yellow fever patients enter a second, often lethal, phase.

After a brief remission, the fever returns with a vengeance, the liver is damaged and the skin and eyes turn yellow. Then the victim starts vomiting a vile, black substance

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Historicity resembling used coffee grounds — giving it the nickname “the Black Vomit.” Finally, blood issues from the mouth, eyes and nose. The patient enters a coma, which is followed by death.

Yellow fever didn’t discriminate. The French naturalist Comte de Castelnau visited Tallahassee in the winter of 1837–38.

According to Groene, the Count wrote, “No one can be certain of escaping the plague, not even the planter who settled in the country long years before, nor the negro born in the malarial regions of Carolina or under the burning sun of Georgia.”

Groene said Castelnau “cast a wary eye at what he considered the rather large size of the Tallahassee country’s cemeteries” and warned his readers not to let the area’s beauty lure them into coming here. He felt that the danger of disease was not worth the risk.

Summer of Death Castelnau’s assessment of Tallahassee’s vulnerability was prophetic. In June and early July of 1841, the disease “descended upon the capital in all of its virulent fury,” Groene wrote. It first appeared in Port St. Joe and then hit Apalachicola, “a summer resort for many Tallahasseans.” It spread to St. Marks, then over to the town of Port Leon, which was later wiped out by a hurricane.

Once the “Black Vomit” manifested in Tallahassee (population 1,600), it exacted a terrible toll on notable members of the community. Former Gov. Robert Raymond Reid died on July 1, followed by his 22-year-old daughter, Rosalie, her daughter, and Gen. John Graham, who was Reid’s son-in-law, a West Point graduate and adjutant general of Florida.

Florida’s militia quartermaster, Col. John B. Collins, died in Port Leon. Isham G. Searcy, former postmaster and early settler, died as well as merchant James Moore and Eliza Betton. The sickness also claimed the popular Rev. Philo Phelps, pastor of the Presbyterian church, as well as the entire family of Robert Wellford. Richard Wellford, one of the family’s three sons lost, had served as aide to Gov. Richard Keith Call during the Florida War. In one of the early battles he volunteered to carry dispatches across a river under heavy fire and was promoted for his heroism. Gov. Call himself would come down with the fever in ’41, but he recovered.

Author Julianne Hare wrote in “Tallahassee: A Capital City History” that more than 150 people died that August. However, the Old City Cemetery’s website states that 50

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between 230 and 400 people perished in the 1841 epidemic. The high number of deaths caused the city to establish a new grid system to more efficiently administer the burials.

“Tallahassee had always escaped epidemics, but there were few places to hide in 1841,” she wrote.

In 1879, the “Annual Report of the National Board of Health” recorded the effects of the disease as it ravaged the local towns. Of the strain that impacted Tallahassee, the report stated, “It spread rapidly and was quite fatal. Number of cases not ascertained. Number of deaths between 60 and 80 but some of these are believed to have been due to congestive malarial fever … many refugees left the place in consequence of the epidemic, and several of them had the fever; but they did not communicate it in any instance to the people with whom they found asylum.”

The report goes on to say there were about 200 cases of the fever in Apalachicola, at the time a bustling city of 2,500. “The town was new, many buildings were going up, there was much misc. filth, a number of ponds in the town had been filled up. There was much malarial sickness,” it stated.

“Yellow fever was brought first to St. Joseph by a fruit vessel from the West Indies, and subsequently, about the 1st of July, to Apalachicola. There were about 200 cases; number of deaths, not stated.”

Groene said that by November the fever was over and Tallahassee started to get back to “normal.” But, he said, “What had brought on the disaster no one knew.” Some supported the theory that “forsaken backyards and sideways all covered with rank growth” sent out deadly yellow fever fumes.

Other theories hit closer to the truth without really realizing it. Some believed the disease had entered through the nearby port cities as a contagious disease, but no solid connections were made. Residents rationalized that the key to survival was cleaner air and unspoiled land. This belief led to the creation of the Bel Air community, “a suburb of the capital built in the open piney woods about three miles south of the Capitol on the road to St. Marks,” Groene said. After the 1841 outbreak, Bel Air became a refuge. The elite of Tallahassee went there during the hottest months of the year in the belief that the open and refreshing pinewoods afforded a relief from the town’s “unhappy weeds and death.”

Bel Air continued to be a popular luxury retreat for wealthy Tallahassee residents tallahassee

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Historicity until the Civil War reduced them to poverty and left them unable to afford it. The community was abandoned.

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Primitive ‘Cures’ no Help In the first half of the 19th century there were only a handful of truly effective medicines available to fight disease. Medical thought at the time was rooted in classical beliefs that relied on highly toxic purgative “medicines” and bleeding to remove poisons from the body. But some truly useful drugs were available such as opium, quinine, castor oil and sodium bicarbonate.

Opium and morphine were used, of course, to control pain. Quinine made from the bark of the South American cinchona tree was used to combat malarial afflictions and other fevers, castor oil relieved constipation and sodium bicarbonate was useful then, as now, as an antacid.

In response to yellow fever, however, physicians threw everything they had at the disease to combat its symptoms — including kitchen spices.

“Treatment for yellow fever was hopelessly primitive,” Groene wrote. “Hot water and cayenne pepper applied to the feet and legs was a typical remedy.”

Other remedies might use harsh mercury-based laxatives, blistering agents, bleeding and mega-doses of opium, wine, brandy and quinine. All were of no avail.

“Unfortunately, such harsh therapies did more harm than good and by the end of the 19th century they were for the most part discredited and replaced by ‘gentle’ remedies such as hot mustard foot baths, bed rest, crushed ice and lemonade, cool sponging and good nursing care,” wrote Theodore B. VanItallie, in a book review published in the Florida Historical Quarterly in 1996.

A yellow fever outbreak in 1889 in Florida finally led to creation of the state Board of Health.

VanItallie wrote that the lessons learned from the South’s devastating experiences with yellow fever proved how ineffective American medicine was before it became rooted in science. After the Army’s Yellow Fever Commission proved scientifically that infected mosquitoes were to blame for the disease, “yellow fever epidemics in the United States became history,” he wrote.

“Once this finding was established … practical application of the mosquito (eradication) doctrine resulted in aborting yellow fever epidemics in Panama in 1904 and in New Orleans in 1905,” VanItallie said. n

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SPOTLIGHT Swamp Stomp For the 33rd year, the Tallahassee Museum is offering great outdoor performances, games, closeup animal encounters, living history demonstrations and environmental education at the annual Swamp Stomp, set for July 9 from 4 to 9 p.m.

Bring comfortable chairs and camp out among the lakeside oaks to enjoy hours of amazing music throughout an evening with an Old Florida feel. The family-friendly concert event includes contemporary acoustic, American folk, bluegrass and regional music. The lineup includes the Hot Tamales, Cheap and Easy, Grant Peeples and the Peeples Republik, Del Suggs, Sarah Mac Band, The New 76ers, Wayne DeWeil, Swivel Kings and Ric Edmiston.

“Where else can you sit and listen to Tallahassee’s best singer/songwriters and acoustic artists under the cooling shade of the heritage oaks?” asks festival organizer Del Suggs. “If you feel the need to stretch your legs during the music, you can always walk over and see what the panthers or otters are up to. I can’t think of another festival where you can do that!”

The Swamp Stomp is free with regular museum admission. — Carson Demont

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calendar JULY & August Compiled by Desiree Stennett

Through July 7 Florida Landscapes: Two Perspectives The Sunshine State isn’t just about oranges and sunshine, and the Museum of Florida History is out to prove it with an exhibit of the paintings of the Florida Highwaymen and photography by Clyde Butcher. FREE. 500 S. Bronough St. Weekdays 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sun and holidays noon–4:30 p.m. (850) 245-6400, museumoffloridahistory.com Through July 9 Heather Parker Paintings Panama City native Heather Parker is bringing it back to the basics in her Gadsden Arts Center Exhibit. Linking lines, shapes and colors in acrylic paint, she creates a space where the real world and her imagination meet. $1 donation requested. 13 N. Madison St., Quincy. Tue–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 875-4866, gadsdenart.org Through July 9 The Life of a Quilt Tallahassee native Eluster Richardson’s expressive and emotional work jumps off the canvas in his latest Gadsden Arts Center exhibit. He focuses on family and culture connected to Southern quilting traditions.

FREE. 13 N. Madison St., Quincy. (850) 875-4866, gadsdenart.org Through Aug 31 Camera in Focus Take a trip down memory lane with the gadget we’ve been using to capture our own memories for decades. The Museum of Florida History’s exhibit showcases cameras from the early to mid 20th century. FREE. 500 S. Bronough St. Weekdays 9 a.m.– 4:30 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sun and holidays noon–4:30 p.m. (850) 245-6400, museumoffloridahistory.com Through Dec 31 Sunset Guided Walking Tour See the beauty and the history hidden in our very own downtown. Join the leisurely 60-minute walking tour and hear about the state’s earliest inhabitants, Spanish explorers, French royalty, local history and much more. $12 per person, group rates available.

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MLK Boulevard to East Gadsden Street.

(850) 212-2063, toursintallahassee.com July 8 Contra Dance Whip out your dancing shoes and join in on a night of contra dancing, similar to square dance. Come alone or with a group. $7 adults, $5 students, $3 children.

Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 7:30–10:30 p.m. (850) 598-1457, tallydancer.com

PHOTO COURTESy THE MARy BROGAN MUSEUM OF ART AND SCIENCE

July 9 Swamp Stomp Music Festival Grab a cool slice of watermelon or an ice cream cone and get ready to enjoy a day of music, food, animals and more. Americana, bluegrass, folk, acoustic jazz and saltwater music will fill the air. $9 adults, $8.50 seniors, $6 children. Tallahassee Museum, 3945 Museum Drive. 4–9 p.m. (850) 575-8684, tallahasseemuseum.org

best bet Through Aug. 21 Giant Bugs Invade the Brogan museum the Brogan will be overrun with fleas, caterpillars and locusts 60 to 600 times their actual size. But don’t worry if you’re a little squeamish, these bugs aren’t the real deal. they’re manmade and computercontrolled for a learning experience on a grand scale. $10 adults, $7.50 seniors, $5 children and students 3 and older, FREE for children under 3. 350 S. Duval St. mon–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 1–5 p.m.

(850) 513-0700, thebrogan.org

July 9–10 Gun Show Bring your guns and your fellow firearm enthusiasts to buy, sell, trade and browse.

This promises to be a fun, safe and childfriendly environment. $7, FREE for children 12 and under and law enforcement officers in uniform. North Florida Fairgrounds, 441 Paul Russell Road. Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (407) 275-7233, floridagunshows.com July 10 and Aug. 14 Archaeology Lab Tour Interested in everything from tribal art to hunting tools? Tour the historic site of Mission San Luis’ archaeology lab and get a sneak peek at what archeologists do behind the scenes. $5 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children (6–17), FREE for children under 6, active duty military and members. 2100 W. Tennessee St. 11 a.m. (850) 245-6406, missionsanluis.org

July 16 T.O.U.R. Mission San Luis Get to know the sites in your own backyard. As a part of the Tourism is Our Ultimate Resource (TOUR) campaign, see the historic Mission San Luis and become a Tallahassee tour guide so you can share this local treasure with friends and family. FREE. 2100 W. Tennessee St. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 245-6406, missionsanluis.org July 21–24 ‘The Bad Seed’ It will be a night of suspicion, mystery, suspense and murder — all on stage, of course. The In the Moment Players will be performing their version of the 1950s novel and Broadway play at the Tallahassee Little Theatre. $13. 1861 Thomasville Road. 8 p.m.

(850) 224-8474, tallahasseelittletheatre.org tallahassee

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events calendar July 23 Tallahassee Antique Bottle Show and Sale Dealers and collectors of old bottles, artifacts, flasks and jugs — your time has arrived. The fifth annual Antique Bottle Show and Sale will showcase age-old relics. $10.

North Florida Fairgrounds, 411 Paul Russell Road. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 294-5537, floridabottles.com July 23, 30 and Aug 20 Tallahassee RollerGirls Roller Derby These high-energy ladies skate fast, hit hard and might even curse a little when they “whip it” around the roller derby track handing out “capital punishment” to teams from throughout the Southeast. $12 in advance, $14 at the door. Tallahassee Skate Inn, 1368 Blountstown Highway (July 23), North Florida Fairgrounds, 441 Paul Russell Road (July 30 and Aug. 20) 6:30 p.m. tallyrg.com July 24 Watercolors Go Baroque Members of the Tallahassee Watercolor Society are getting a little more dramatic and adopting the painting style of the

16th, 17th and 18th centuries. This blend of artistic style will close out the 50 Masterpieces of Italian Baroque Painting exhibit in the Brogan Museum. FREE. 350 S. Duval St. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 894-1010, tallahasseewatercolorsociety.com July 29–Oct. 29 Dean Mitchell: Rich in Spirit Quincy native and nationally acclaimed artist Dean Mitchell is showing the real world in watercolors. His new body of work celebrates the interconnectedness of life, death, family and spirituality. FREE. 13 N. Madison St., Quincy. Tue–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 875-4866, gadsdenart.org Aug. 5 First Friday Gallery Hop Treat yourself to a little bit of culture before going out on the town. All over the city, galleries stay open a little later on the first Friday of every month. Hop from gallery to gallery in the Railroad Square Art Park or go a little farther on to 1020 Art on Lafayette Street. FREE. Museums, art retailers and galleries throughout the city. 6–9 p.m. firstfridaytallahassee.com

best bet July 9, 16, 23, 30 Sizzlin’ Saturday Concert Series this summer, Saturday nights are burning hot. Hear local crooners crank out the tunes every week at the outdoor concert sponsored by the city’s parks and Recreation and Neighborhood affairs departments in the downtown Kleman plaza. Entertainers include thursday Night music Club (July 9), Bogazedi (July 16), moon pie Fever (July 23) and tryst (July 30), FREE. 306 S. Duval St. 6–8 p.m.

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Aug. 6 Throwback Fest Let nostalgia take over and relive the past, if only for a few hours. Enjoy the music of old-school R&B, Funk and Hip-Hop artists like Lenny Williams, WHODINI and Lakeside.

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $45 VIP. North Florida Fairgrounds, 441 Paul Russell Road. 6 p.m. (904) 551-2033, throwfestconcerts.com Aug. 6 Paul Williams and the Victory Trio Concert Fans of gospel and bluegrass, it just may be time to take a short trip out of town. Gas prices may be up, but the affordable ticket price makes the 45-minute drive to see Paul Williams no problem at all. $10. Thomasville Auditorium, 144 E. Jackson St. 7:30 p.m.

(866) 577-3600, thomasvillega.com

Aug. 18–Sept. 4 ‘Rumor Mill’ Join Tallahassee Little Theatre as they kick off their first play of the new season. Rumor has it you’ll have a great time. $21 adults, $16 seniors. 1861 Thomasville Road. 8 p.m.

(850) 224-8474, tallahasseelittletheatre.org Aug. 26 BIG Bash Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend’s BIG Alliance is putting on the “Roaring Twenties” ritz. Come dressed in your glad rags for a night of free-flowing bubbly, tasty eats, dance floor hijinx, commemorative photos, prize giveaways and more. $55 single or $100 per couple. Hotel Duval. 8 p.m.–midnight. For more information, contact Merridith Crowe at (850) 386-6002 or merridith.crowe@bbbsbigbend.org. bbbs. org/bigbash

best bet Aug. 19–Nov. 13 The 30th Annual Capital City Quilt Show Quilters Unlimited of Tallahassee and the Museum of Florida History are going glam. All that is glitzy, glamorous and glittery will take over at the Capital City Quilt Show, titled “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Don’t forget your sunglasses; you may need to guard your eyes from this serious shine. FREE. 500 S. Bronough St. Weekdays 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sun and holidays noon–4:30 p.m. (850) 245-6400, museumoffloridahistory.com

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Tallahassee Tennis Challenger: 1. Else Smith and Billie Padgett 2. Patty McAlpine, Becky McAlpine, Ken McAlpine and John Brooks 3.

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Brehon Blue Ribbon Ball: 1. Kelly Hutchinson, Ellen McFarlain, Stacey Hobbs and Kelley Ausley 2. Freddy Branham and Mary Linzee Van Leuven 3. Katie Kole and James Kole 4. Steve Winn and Ken Wilson; Sustainability Art Contest at Four Points Sheraton Downtown: 5. John Marks, Lee Daniel, Peggy Brady, Sharon Liggett and Sue Dick; Rotary Clubs of Tallahassee, Wakulla and Monticello — 11th Annual Ethics in Business Award: 6. Bill Webb, Field Wilde, John Dombroski, Ivan Johnson, Sylvia White, Larry Kubiak, John Medina and Stan Sheppard 7. Bob Riedel and Mike Forsthoefel; North Florida Parkinson Awareness Group — Tulip Trot: 8. Steve Quam and Pat Hunt [Photos by Dan Parisi and courtesy Brehon Family Services and North Florida Parkinson Awareness Group] T A LL A H A SS E E

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211 Big Bend — Escape to the Jungle: 1. Jerry Osteryoung, Nolia Brandt, Steve Evans and Bill Brandt 2. Judith Barrett, Terry Ward, Karen Benda and Rob Renzie 3. Jennifer Rupert, Frank Rupert, Carol Gagliano, Randy Nicklaus, Donna Smithey, Cori Bauserman and Miriam Nicklaus 4. Kathy LaMontagne and Shelly Marks 5. Robin McCallister, Terry Leland and Miriam Nicklaus; Capital Medical Society — Celebration Awards Dinner: 6. Dr. Raleigh Rollins, Dr. W. Clarence Applegate, Dr. R. James Mabry and Dr. Tracey Hellgren 7. Dr. Charles Moore, Dr. Tracey Hellgren, Jean McCully and Dr. Don Zorn [Photos courtesy 211 Big Bend and Capital Medical Society] T A LL A H A SS E E

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Big Bend Hospice Spring Fling: 1. Bryan Desloge, Bud Wethington, Jay Smith, Janelle Wethington, Bri Smith and Beth Desloge 2. Danny Fuchs, Linda Fuchs, Bob Inzer, Janis Inzer and Kristin Dozier 3. Shelia Bludworth, Bo Bludworth, Desiree Dunn, Roy Young and Rose Marie Young 4. Terry Palmer, Jason Crowder, Nancyanne Carothers and Graham Carothers 5. Wilma Lauder, John Crusoe and Dee Crusoe [Photos courtesy Big Bend Hospice]

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Gretchen Everhart Prom: 1. Drew Owen and Brittany Norman 2. Samantha Read and Julio Bautista 3. Abby Garton 4. Shawntia Williams and Courtney Hendry 5. Michael Riley 6. Gretchen Everhart Staff 7. Lyn Alice Taube 8. KC Norman 9. Breonna Odom [Photos by Caroline Conway] T A LL A H A SS E E

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Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra’s Pops in the Park: 1. Sean Singleton and Kayla Hobbs 2. Gwen Morgan, Sherrie Carter and Terrie Carter McGlon 3. Back Row: Melissa Donaldson, David Donaldson, Daryl Green, Theo Proctor and Emily Proctor, Al Stewart, Martha Anne Proctor and Diane Stewart; Kneeling: Velma Proctor and Alex Jefferson Alzheimer’s Project: 4. Sally Campbell-Evans, Bill Corry, Clarke Campbell-Evans, Bruce Harter and Stephanie Corry 5. Janna McConnaughhay, Elaine McConnaughhay and Jim McConnaughhay 6. Victoria Heuler, Bill Wertman and David Campbell 7. Billy Fontaine and Karen James 8. Members of the Pilot Club of Tallahassee, named Community Hero of the Year 9. Henry Winders, Linda Winders, Donna Wells and Bob Henderson [Photos by Chuck Simpson and Caroline Conway] 70

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Watchman on the Wall Radio Talk Show Host Preston Scott Talks About Faith, Politics and the ‘Last Bastion of True Media’

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oyfully biased. Delightfully annoying.

That’s how Preston Scott describes himself in a nutshell.

“That’s me. I am biased. I have a political mindset and philosophy that doesn’t move or shape or change with the times,” said the 51-year-old Pittsburgh native and host of “The Morning Show With Preston Scott” on 100.7 FM WFLA. Scott is one of those guys lucky enough to find a job that isn’t “work.” His office is an intimate setting: a small, soundproof room with a glass partition separating him from his producer’s control booth. Scott’s workstation is a high-top table with microphones and a computer that’s linked, obviously, to the Internet. A small refrigerator sits in one corner and keeps bottles of water chilled.

The son of National Sportswriters & Sportscasters Hall of Fame announcer Ray Scott (known as the “Voice of the Green Bay Packers”), Preston Scott had the street cred to seek national fame and glory, and followed in his father’s sports broadcasting footsteps for several years. But a spiritual awakening, and the desire to stay close to home and family, urged him to go down a different path.

He and wife Cynthia together have a family of six children, plus three grandchildren, two dogs and one “granddog.”

“Understand this. One of the reasons why I left broadcasting to begin with … was as I grew up … I saw my father more on television than I ever saw him in person ’til the day he died. Dad logged more miles than an average airline pilot. He was gone 300 days a year. And so as much as I loved my dad, I just didn’t want to be that kind of father. I just wanted to be more accessible to my kids,” who today range in age from 15 to 33.

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…

Scott looks back and laughs at the first time he sat behind a microphone. He was a kid hanging out in a Minneapolis studio where his uncle was a sportscaster. In those days, his dad and Howard Cosell were “chief rivals,” and to “needle” his dad a little, he’d get on the air and imitate Cosell’s characteristic vocal cadence.

“My dad and my uncle were not close friends. Dad was doing some sports call-ins for a radio station in Minneapolis, and I would call in as Howard. My dad would come home livid. And only in my mid-20s did I confess that it was me,” Scott said.

His first professional radio gig came when he was a senior in high school reading afternoon drive news at a station in Phoenix, Ariz.

“I was doing the ultimate oxymoron: FM news. There was no such thing at the time because it was a Top 40 radio station,” he said. But, “It was a pretty good gig for a high school senior.”

He went from there to station KOY, an adult contemporary/ sports station, also in Phoenix.

“Because I was Ray Scott’s son, I had opportunities. I had a modest amount of ability, and so I was able to keep jobs and have opportunities because I had some degree of talent,” he said.

“But that’s how I got first exposed to ‘talk’ radio. I was the show producer for the sports talk show that was hosted by Bob Buck at the time.”

Scott said this job allowed him to host the program occasionally and do play-by-play for the Arizona Wranglers, a United States Football League team. Then, he felt the desire to answer another calling.

“I just felt like, from a spiritual side, that something better could come of my life, and so I got a little more serious about my commitment to my Christian faith,” he said.

This change of heart led him to work for a small Christian radio station in Phoenix. A media critic called his move the

Photography by Scott Holstein

THE ‘MORNING STAR’ Tallahassee public relations giant Ron Sachs says radio talk show personality Preston Scott is the dominant force in local radio, and could be just as great on a national stage.

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“Understand this. One of the reasons why I left broadcasting to begin with … was as I grew up … I saw my father more on television than I ever saw him in person ’til the day he died.” “greatest backwards broadcasting step in Phoenix media history,” Scott said. “From there, I went into fulltime vocational ministry.” Scott gave up radio as a fulltime occupation in 1984 and came to Tallahassee in 1987 as an associate pastor of Christian Heritage Church.

“We had friends that accepted a job out here that we knew from Phoenix. They invited me to come out, and I got hired,” he said. He served as youth pastor, then took on the responsibility of a private school and church in Gadsden County, which he did for seven or eight years. Today, he attends and serves at Every Nation Tallahassee.

For a time he also did some commercial and voice work but, for the most part, “I completely dumped the (broadcasting) business.”

“Throughout that, I did voice work and so forth, but didn’t really have a map or plan to get back into broadcasting,” he said. “I just reached a fork in the road. You do a lot of counseling and you do a lot of funerals and sometimes you reach a point where you just kind of need a timeout from that on a vocational standpoint. And so I accepted a role with a friend of mine who was interim pastor of a church here in town. I did that for about a year. That would have been around 1998 or 1999. Then I did basically odd jobs for a couple of years.”

Soon, Scott started to build a bridge back to broadcasting.

He went on to become the sports director for WTXL, the local ABC affiliate, but radio beckoned soon after. In 2002 he became host of “The Morning Show” while also doing some television and other broadcasting part-time. However, the grueling routine got to him. He grew tired of getting only four hours of sleep every night from doing TV spots and other jobs, and left television for good in 2006 to focus solely on radio. It was a good call on his part because format changes switched “The Morning Show” and other news radio programs from AM to FM. Scott said the switch to FM was a great boost for “The Morning Show,” which currently can be heard from 6 to 9 a.m. weekdays at 100.7 WFLA. “We had done well on the AM, but when you go FM that’s a whole new ballgame,” he said. “Now our show is heard by people other than just the immediate metro area. That was sketchy with the AM signal. And then the show really took off.”

Along the way, Scott picked up a new producer, Eric Eggers, who’s been with him since 2005.

Eggers, 29, said he first met Scott in 2004, when he was in the communications office of the Department of Education and wanted to break into television. Scott was doing “The Morning Show” and gave Eggers some career advice.

Eggers himself got his start in radio as a participant in “The 84

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Locker Room,” a Saturday morning program at the same radio station. Some time after his meeting with Scott, Eggers got a call tipping him off to a job opening as producer of “The Morning Show.” He accepted, although the irony doesn’t escape him.

“I first met (Scott) because I wanted to work in TV and instead wound up working in radio with him,” Eggers said. “My first day was Valentine’s Day 2005. I joke that Valentine’s Day is our anniversary.”

Scott said his young producer works hard to make the show run well.

“Eric does the work of three people, a lot of unseen work,” he said. “He’s producer, but spends time on the air, which is unusual.”

Eggers said he and Scott have a “very in-depth relationship.”

“I would say we’ve had some heartfelt moments and some moments of disagreement. It’s a complex relationship, grounded in love and respect,” he said. “He’s been there for me a couple of times … so anything I can do for him I will try to be there.”

The producer describes Scott as “an incredibly committed father. He takes his responsibility as a father as seriously as anyone I know and enjoys being a father as much, or more, than anybody I know.”

Scott said Eggers’ helps give the show depth and scope.

“I see him as a bright young man (who) offers a perspective that broadens the show,” he said. “We’re broadcasters, not narrow casters. It deepens the demographics of the show. It makes for thought-provoking radio.”

…

Conservative with a Dash of Libertarian A faith-based sense of right and wrong, and a staunch conservative philosophy guide Scott’s opinions as he takes local politicians and bureaucrats to task on the topics that concern him and, by extension, his audience.

“I am absolutely conservative. I would say I have a libertarian streak, though it would be very hard for me to define what that means. I would just say there are things that I hear libertarians say that resonate with me,” he said. “I believe that conservatism, when practiced properly, is always correct. And always works.”

Scott said there is a great difference between being a “conservative” and a registered Republican.

“I get asked to speak at Republican Party functions all over, and I tell them upfront, I’m a registered Republican but don’t take that for granted because I’m not under your flag. I’m a

conservative,” he said. “For all of that, I’m a Christian and as much as anything else that drives my philosophy. I believe my faith is anchored to things that are immovable. In other words, if there is something wrong and unethical on Monday, it’s wrong, unethical and immoral on Friday. In that regard, true conservatism pins itself to a philosophy, not a set of policies, to a philosophy that does not move.”

Along those lines, Scott doesn’t play favorites. This is the man who called former Gov. Charlie Crist a “political windsock.” That The Other Voice Eric Eggers humorously displays his methods doesn’t mean he doesn’t like for coping with his job as Preston Scott’s producer. In reality, the two Crist, he said. men share a complex but heartfelt relationship, Eggers said.

“He’s a nice guy. I was fortunate to meet Charlie long before any of this, when he came into the studio at ABC when I was doing sports,” Scott question or the answer, you’ll hear their emotions delivering it,” said. “He’s a great guy, a delightful man. But a rotten governor, he said. “Radio has hit a niche in the American culture because because he had no compass. Even Democrats begrudgingly reit’s a place where you can sit down and talk or listen. In my case spect Jeb Bush because they knew what they were getting. This I’m validating, or asking, the questions that a lot of people that is what he believed, this is what he advocated, and you knew listen would want to ask. So it’s almost like a modern-day extenwhat you had whether you liked it or not.” sion of the old-school discussion around the dinner table.”

And that’s something he respects in others. Scott said he loves Like most talk radio shows, “The Morning Show” features talking to former Leon County Commissioner Bob Rackleff, guests as well as listeners who call in. even though they couldn’t be more different, politically.

“We do have guests every morning, and we always take calls, “But I love talking to Bob because he’s sincere, he believes it, but we don’t always take them on the air,” he said. “Sometimes, he owns it and he never deviates from it. We get along great, and it’s a matter of time available; other times, it’s a matter of getwe have great discussions,” Scott said. ting out as much info as possible. Since we try to keep moving Rackleff isn’t the only Democrat Scott has had on the show. through a lot of information we do not linger on any one subject Past guests include Mayor John Marks, Leon County Comfor too long.” missioners Bill Proctor and Akin Akinyemi; Tallahassee City It’s not always convenient for guests to actually come into the Commissioner Andrew Gillum, former Tallahassee City Comstudio, so about 70 percent of guest interviews are done over the missioner (now ambassador to Portugal) Allan Katz, former phone, Scott said. He tries to have good, civil discussions and chairman of the Leon County Democratic Party Rick Minor, rarely says or does something that prompts a strong reaction former U.S. Sen./Florida Gov. Bob Graham, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelfrom interviewees. son, former U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd, former Florida CFO Alex “For example, several years ago I got under the skin of Bill Sink and many others.

Proctor to such an extent that he went on record at a county “I could literally go on and on,” Scott said. commission meeting demanding equal time,” he said. “Needless to say, that did not go very far because they have no say in the matter, but I did eventually win him over to the point that he is now a frequent guest, and I think he enjoys his time on the program.”

The Last Bastion of Media Scott does “show prep” at home every afternoon by reading “Radio is the last bastion of true media,” Scott said, comparanything and everything he can find. This allows him time to ing radio, television and newspapers. In the latter two forms, he spend time with his family and help out with homework. He’s a complains, there’s just simply not enough time or space available voracious consumer of local, state and national news; about half to hear the complete story, in context. That’s why he loves “The of the show’s content is local, 35 percent is state news and the rest Morning Show.” would be national or international.

“What we do is give people a chance to talk. You’ll hear a “And all of that stuff falls into one of three categories: things question, the answer will be unedited, you’ll hear their voice that people are talking about, things that people will be talking inflection, you’ll hear whether they’re comfortable with the

…

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about and the things that I think people need to be talking about,” he said.

The format seems to be working, Scott said, because when Clear Channel Communications downsized a few years ago, cutting thousands of jobs nationally, they elected to keep the Tallahassee station, even though it wasn’t a large urban market.

“Let’s face it, we may be Florida’s state capital, but this is considered a small-market radio station. I think the fact we survived the cut, and then flourished in the midst of a very difficult economy, speaks to why Clear Channel kept us,” he said. “They didn’t keep a lot of small markets.”

Scott said that during the last Arbitron ratings period, the show placed first in the key demographic (men, ages 25 to 54). He said it consistently ranked first in most ratings over the last several years and has been second “once or twice.” In the last rating period for all persons ages 12-plus, his show was ranked second.

“That’s a huge accomplishment for talk radio,” he said.

“I believe that conservatism, when practiced properly, is always correct.

And always works.”

…

The People’s Advocate Government waste and wrongdoing really tick Scott off.

“There’s a larger span of space between what is legal and what is right. Now more than ever before,” he said. “Years ago, what was legal and what was right were pretty close together. And now, look at the ethics investigations from the state government on down and from the federal government on down. Look at the people that are found to be not guilty. What they did was wrong, but technically wasn’t illegal. I don’t care. Do what’s right. Hold yourself to a higher standard than the law. You know, my dad used to say that ‘character is what you do when no-one’s looking.’ And that to me defines where we are today.”

When he’s not hammering down on waste and inefficiency, Scott is turning the mic over to those brave souls who seek political office. He has a special fondness for election cycles, and his interviews with political candidates are the hallmark of “The Morning Show.” He greatly respects anyone willing to run for office, with all its personal exposure and the relentless personal attacks candidates often face. It doesn’t matter if he agrees with them or not, or if they have a shot at actually winning.

“It’s about honoring somebody willing to say ‘I’ll try’,” he said.

However, he doesn’t consider himself a “kingmaker” or “power broker.”

“Kingmaker? That would be funny because I don’t think we’ve gotten anybody elected. Someone could say I was pretty successful in my analysis of Marco Rubio’s candidacy, but from a local standpoint I would describe myself as a … watchman on the wall,” he said. “I believe what I believe. And I’m paid to give my opinion. The only reason my opinion carries any more resonance than anyone else’s is because it’s broadcast. I’m just a person out there who believes we can do better, regardless of who’s in office, Republican, Democrat, liberal or conservative.

We can do better.”

Legendary Tallahassee public relations guru Ron Sachs — who makes a living influencing public opinion himself — admits Scott probably wields more influence than he realizes.

“He almost single-handedly boosted the fortunes of (Tallahassee city commission candidate) Erwin Jackson. He agreed with 86

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Tell It All, Brother A deep sense of conviction and faith drive Scott’s crusade against government waste and inefficiency.

his positions on issues and, frankly, helped legitimize Jackson. It was a reflection of his power. He’s a newsmaker now,” Sachs said.

“You can take a little-known personality, and they can become bigger much sooner if Preston Scott likes him as a guest. Marco Rubio enjoyed a good audience with Preston before he was a candidate for U.S. Senate.”

Sachs said he listens to Scott’s show on a regular basis, but that doesn’t mean they meet eye-to-eye on the issues.

“I have cut myself shaving more than once, listening to him in the morning and he says something that surprises me, some opinion that he has in strong terms. I got to keep the styptic pencil ready,” Sachs quipped.

He may strongly disagree with Scott’s opinions, but Sachs said he still respects Scott.

“We developed a friendship over the years, and while I differ with Preston’s political philosophy wildly at many times, I love his passion for our community, for family and for the right thing,” Sachs said. “I will say he is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met and a very spiritual man. One of my favorite things is this man comes from a broadcast pedigree. He could be a star in any major urban market and could be a broadcast star nationally but he continues to opt for Tallahassee because it’s such a great place to live.”

Sachs’ nickname for Scott is the “morning star”.

“I think in all the media in our community he is a great jewel, and consider him the dominant giant in morning radio in this region,” he said. “Preston has taken the morning program to a peak that few radio programs of its kind ever reach.”

Eggers said Scott is consumed with thinking of ways to improve the show.

“At the end of the day, the focus is the show,” he said. “It’s definitely been an asset to my career to work with someone with his level of experience and his professional approach. He’s embraced my strengths and he’s managed to deal with my weaknesses, and that speaks to his generous nature. At the end of the day he’s filled with strong opinions but filled with genuine Christian love and, yeah, I think it’s been a blessing to me to be a part of that.”

Said Sachs, “My dream would be to own a radio network and to take Preston and give him that larger stage from Tallahassee, a national or statewide link. He would rock the political world with that kind of program.” n Ta l l a h a s s e e

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TOP Singles 2011

Instant attraction

Find a Date at Tallahassee’s Hottest Fundraising Party of the Year

I

t can be sidelong glance, a wink, a smile or just “hello” that makes you think, “Hey, that person is flirting with me!” And, in a heartbeat, you’re also thinking, “Hey, I want to get to know him (or her!) better.”

Eighteen “best-catch-not-yet-taken” bachelors and bachelorettes have agreed to make the first move and share their photos, a little chit chat and a very short — only six words — biography with our readers.

If you see someone you’d like to get to know better — or

you just want to liven up the hot summer months with a fun night out — join us at the Hotel Duval for Tallahassee Magazine’s Top Singles bash on Saturday, July 16. All our featured singles have agreed to participate in a date auction during the festivities. And all money raised during the bidding will be donated to the charity of each single’s choice. Last year’s inaugural event raised more than $22,000 for 13 nonprofit organizations.

— Rosanne Dunkelberger

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit tallahasseetopsingles.com.

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TOP Singles 2011 If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it

The Life Of The Party.

Literally.

Six-Word Memoir

be? I

always try and treat myself to somewhere new and exotic every year. I think right now I’d love to be in the heart of Mexico, margarita in hand!

In my line of work, my nights are always required, and long ones! I rarely get to see the daylight!

Early bird or night owl?

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in others?

Loyalty. I consider myself 100 percent loyal to my friends and family and expect the same in return!

Would you rather be called hot, cute, smart, funny or awesome?

I can’t have them all? :)

What is your No. 1 turn off? No

personality. I love people who can keep me laughing, keep a conversation going, a smile on my face and be spontaneous!

What three words best describe you?

Social. Outrageous. Kinky.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t

know? If I’m not promoting, I’m a homebody at heart. I’m home on the couch, alone with a glass (or bottle!) of wine, relaxing.

What is a fear you’d like to be free of? Failure.

Rejection. Terrified of it.

If you were asked by a child you love to tell the most important thing you have learned in life, what would

it be? Never fall victim to believing stereotypes. I’ve broken through so many in my short lifetime that if I choose to do something, I know I can. And will try my hardest to reach any goal I set for myself.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Sunglasses! I go to vintage eyewear websites just to view the new arrivals and deals!

Stadium tailgate or mancave big-

screen? Man-cave

big screen for sure! Put me in front of a 50-inch, (on a) big couch with good food and I’m all yours!

Larry Prada 25: VIP Club Promoter and Event Planner

Charity: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tallahassee, Inc. 90

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

On a porch swing talking with my Aunt Nevell. I miss her so much.

What do you wish you knew five years ago? That

everything would work out for the best and that I would have a career that I love.

Beer, wine or champagne? All the above and bourbon during football season.

What characteristic do you most admire in others? Honesty

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? To

build a bridge and get over things faster.

What are the top five items on your bucket list? Go

on a guided alligator hunt, learn to skeet shoot, ride in a hot air balloon, go to Hawaii, attend the Kentucky Derby.

What three words best describe you?

Energetic, outgoing, passionate.

What food can you not live without?

Italian, especially pizza.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I sometimes eat glazed donuts and drink Monster energy drinks when traveling with certain girlfriends. LOL!

Life is UNTAMED! Play.

Sweat.

Love.

The best thing about living in

I am close enough that out-of-town friends and family can travel easily to visit me.

Tallahassee is ...

What drives you crazy? People

back into parking spaces.

I just don’t get it.

that

High heels, wedges or flip flops? Ummm

... all of them. I love shoes!

Six-Word Memoir

On Larry: Hart Schaffner Marx denim jacket ($695), light blue striped Ralph Lauren Polo ($75) white linen pants by Murano ($85) and Daniel Cremieux cotton straw fedora ($30) from Dillard’s. 18K and steel Oyster Perpetual Rolex ($10,000) from Gem Collection. On Tracey: Trina Turk kimono dress ($238) and Helen’s Heart suede trimmed clear heels ($132) from Narcissus.

14K large gold pear-shaped drop hook earrings ($375) and vermeil corrugated link bracelet ($295) from Gem Collection.

Tracey Grant

38: Personal Trainer, Premiere Health & Fitness and Golds Gym Charity: Tree House of Tallahassee and Young Life Tallahassee

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First one on the dance floor.

Six-Word Memoir

Old school book or e-reader?

Definitely an old school book reader.

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in others?

I admire thoughtfulness and dislike dishonesty and being judgmental.

What food can you not live without?

Sushi and tomatoes.

What are the top five items on your bucket list? 1.

See the Rolling Stones in concert 2. Take cooking lessons at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris 3. African Safari 4. To be determined ... 5.

Have a successful relationship What is your No. 1 turn off?

Arrogance

What three words best describe you?

Happy, honest and witty.

What advice did your mother give you that you actually used? When

I was younger she would say “Act like I am in your pocket.” It stuck with me.

too many! I typically snooze for a good hour.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Reading gossip magazines in the bathtub with a glass of wine.

Everyone needs a little brain candy!

Would you rather be called hot,

screen? Tailgating!

My left eye is blue and my right eye is green. cute, smart, funny or awesome?

Adorably funny!

What advice would you give to a

It’s OK to be different as long as you are consistently happy with yourself.

10-year-old version of you?

What drives you crazy? Tardiness!

When/where do you get your best

ideas? Usually right before I fall asleep.

Sponsorships, Rowland Publishing, Inc. Charity: Big Bend Hospice J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

snooze button? WAY

you that a lot of people don’t know?

What’s something interesting about

Caroline Conway 30: Client Service Representative/Media 92

How many times do you hit the

Stadium tailgate or mancave big-

Game days at Doak are one of my favorite things.

On Caroline: Lilly Pulitzer floral halter sundress ($198), Lilly Pulitzer beige wedges ($198) from Pink Narcissus.

Strawberry cream Venetian glass necklace ($98) and bracelet ($125) from Gem Collection. On Ryan: White linen shirt by Murano ($65), Perry Ellis Classic Fit pants $69.50 from Dillards. TOMS Shoes from Cole Couture.

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

Minnesota, it’s where I’m from and grew up and really enjoy it there!

What characteristic do you most

admire — or most dislike — in others?

A person who is honest and would take the shirt off their back for anyone!

If you could change one thing about

yourself, what would it be? Nothing.

What is your No. 1 turn off? Smoking.

What three words best describe you?

Always give more than you take.

Six-Word Memoir

Outgoing, fun, driven.

What advice did your mother give

you that you actually used? If you want something in life you have to work for it.

What food can you not live without?

Snickers.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I race dirt bikes.

The best thing about living in Tallahassee is …? It’s

easygoing place.

a fun and

Would you rather be called hot, cute, smart, funny or awesome?

Probably hot!

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? I

went on a airboat on a lake with lots of gators everywhere!

What is a fear you’d like to be free of? Snakes.

If you were asked by a child you love to tell the most important thing you have learned in life, what would it be? Be

a good person, be all you can be and live life to the fullest! Help others and be there for others.

What is a dream you’d like to have come true someday? To

have a family.

How many times do you hit the snooze button? Zero.

What radio station is on in your car right now? 103.1

country!

What is your guilty pleasure? Ice

cream.

What was your first car? A

Nissan Titan.

red

Ryan Dungey 21: Professional Motocross Racer Charity: LIVESTRONG Tallahassee

93

TOP Singles 2011 If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

On the Amalfi Coast of Italy drinking wine and watching the sunset.

Old school book or e-reader? Old

school book. There’s nothing like holding a real book in your hands.

Early bird or night owl? Early Bird.

Breakfast is my favorite meal.

Beer, wine or champagne? Wine,

please!

red

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in others?

I most admire someone who is caring and treats everyone the same.

Cats or dogs? Dogs!

Labrador, Ginger!

I love my

What are the top five items on your bucket list? 1.

To see all seven wonders of the world 2.

Become a yoga instructor 3. Hike the Appalachian Trail 4. Go on a photography jungle safari in Africa 5. To attend an FSU football championship game.

What is your No. 1 turn off?

Selfishness

What food can you not live without?

Any kind of cheese!

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I speak Chinese, although I barely get to use it. Xie xie :) What’s your favorite thing that’s

hanging on your wall? I have a painting of my childhood best friend and I on the wall that I love because we both look so happy.

The best thing about living in Tallahassee is …? Canopy

roads and the Florida State Seminoles!

Pass the bubbly, it is me.

Would you rather be called hot,

Six-Word Memoir

What is your guilty pleasure? Boiled peanuts, they are my favorite thing to eat on a road trip.

Jill Chandler 25: Reporter for WCTV Eyewitness News Charity: Children’s Home Society 94

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

cute, smart, funny or awesome?

Awesome ... isn’t that a combination of them all?

When/where do you get your best ideas? Sitting

on my grandmother’s porch, drinking tea and talking to her about life.

What do you wish you knew five years ago? When

the housing bubble was going to bust?!

Beer, wine or champagne? Beer;

different kinds for all occasions!

What is your No. 1 turn off? The

word “No”… just not a fan.

What three words best describe you?

Living Life Passionately.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I am an identical mirror twin.

What’s your favorite thing that’s

hanging on your wall? Pictures of my two kids, Jay and Grayson.

The best thing about living in

The three F’s — Friends, Family and Football …

Noles football, of course!

Tallahassee is …?

When/where do you get your best

ideas? While listening to music … I guess it stirs up the creative juices What do you keep in the trunk of your car? Skeletons;

are full! Ha.

all the closets

What advice would you give to a

10-year-old version of you? Dream

big — never give up on the dream and go for it!

What drives you crazy? OMG!

Questionnaires …

How many times do you hit the snooze button? On

average, 83 times … give or take.

On Jill: BCBG Max Azria white oneshoulder dress with keyhole cutout design accessorized by a black elastic belt with pearl and gold flower-shaped buckle from Cole Couture ($362), Pearl necklace ($495) with 14K gold square-hinged pendant ($2,290), 14K gold and sterling silver rounded cuff bracelet ($1,890), 14K gold and sterling silver square-hinged pendant earrings ($1,200) by Alwand Vahan from Gem Collection. On Cal: Caribbean peach linen shirt ($65), Ralph Lauren sport coat ($295), relaxed fit vintage jeans ($69.50) and cotton straw fedora ($30) both from Daniel Cremieux Collection, from Dillards, 18K and steel Oyster Rolex ($10,000) from Gem Collection.

Mistakes happen, Laugh — Love — Smile anyways.

Six-Word Memoir

Cal Brooks 41: Government Liaison, Office of Agricultural Water Policy Charity: Cards for a Cure event, benefiting TMH Cancer Programs Tallahassee

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If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

Teeing off at Augusta National Golf Club.

Early bird or night owl? I’ve

been a night owl.

always

Old school book or e-reader? Old

school book.

Beer, wine or champagne? Blanton’s

Bourbon with water

Cats or dogs? Definitely

dogs. I will always have a Boykin Spaniel.

What advice did your mother give

you that you actually used? People really listen to their parents?

What food can you not live without?

Whataburger.

The best thing about living in Tallahassee is …? Family

and friends.

Would you rather be called hot, cute, smart, funny or awesome?

Funny.

What advice would you give to a 10-year-old version of you? No

need

What drives you crazy? People

who

to, I wouldn’t listen.

are rude to wait staff.

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever had? My

first trip to Argentina.

How many times do you hit the snooze button? Until

minutes late.

I am 10

What radio station is on in your car

So far, so good, what’s next?

Six-Word Memoir

Frank Whitley 44: President, Whitley Contracting and Partner in

right now? The

XM radio.

Boots, loafers, sneakers or flip flops? Flip

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

flops.

Stadium tailgate or mancave bigscreen? Tailgating

University.

Duval Partners Charity: Boy Scouts of America Suwanee River Area Council

96

comedy channel on

at Auburn

Life and laughter always come together.

Six-Word Memoir

Early bird or night owl? I used to be a night owl, but the older I get, I am turning into an early bird!

Old school book or e-reader? Old

school book reader ... it’s hard to curl up with the Kindle.

Bing or Google?

Bing.

Cats or dogs? Both.

and dogs.

I have both cats

to tell the most important thing you

What is your No. 1 turn off? Lying.

have learned in life, what would it

What three words best describe you?

Funny, smart and blonde.

corny as this sounds, always follow your dreams, and everything will fall into place.

What food can you not live without?

What’s the best vacation you’ve

Coffee!

What do you keep in the trunk of your car? Jumper

On Frank: Gold Label Roundtree and York shirt ($70), Daniel Cremieux dark denim vintage jeans $69.50), Hart Schaffner Marx wool jacket ($550) from Dillard’s. Daytona Rolex watch ($10,400) from Gem Collection. On Kim: Nicole Miller salmon silk dress ($410) and Diane Von Furstenberg metallic gold sandals ($335) from Narcissus. Freshwater pearl necklace ($250) bracelet ($89) and drop earrings ($275) from Gem Collection.

If you were asked by a child you love

lawn chair.

cables and a

Tallahassee is … Florida

ideas? When walking the dog or listening to music.

State

What radio station is on in your car right now? Gulf

What advice would you give to a 10-year-old version of you? Not

listen to negative people!

to

What is a fear you’d like to be free of? Fear

itself.

ever had? The two weeks I spent in Ireland, Scotland and England.

When/where do you get your best

The best thing about living in

football!!!!

be? As

104!

Stadium tailgate or mancave bigscreen? Stadium

tailgating.

What was your first car? My

Chevy Monza ... a car clearly discontinued.

mom’s

Kim Eldridge 44: Licensed nurse and massage therapist at Chelsea Salon and Spa and Tallahassee Plastic Surgery Center Charity: The Refuge House Tallahassee

97

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Today, Tomorrow, Yesterday = Happiness, Excitement, Laughter.

Six-Word Memoir

Old school book or e-reader?

I’m an old school book reader, I love feeling the paper and dog tagging my pages.

What do you wish you knew five years ago? That just like wine, you

only get better with age.

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in others? I admire when someone

is honest and comfortable with themselves.

What is your No. 1 turn off?

Wow, just one? How about two — smoking and negative attitudes.

What three words best describe you? Ambitious, classy, confident.

What advice did your mother give you that you actually used?

Treat people the way you want to be treated.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know? That I enjoy fishing

and know how to use a chop saw and nail gun.

What’s your favorite thing that’s hanging on your wall? A

picture of my daughter when she was 2 years old.

What advice would you give to a 10-year-old version of you?

Listen to your mother.

What drives you crazy? Negative

people and bathroom fans.

How many times do you hit the snooze button? Never, I don’t set

an alarm.

High heels, wedges or flip flops?

High heels. I’m only 5-foot-2 and I love that my legs look longer in heels.

On Amy: Nicole Miller mocha sequined dress ($395) and Helen’s Heart suedetrimmed clear heels ($132) from Narcissus. Elle leaf-shaped necklace ($149) and crystal earrings ($169) from Gem Collection. On Lance: Hart Schaffner Marx grey pinstriped 1887 Blazer ($195), tailored double pleated pant ($95), Daniel Cremieux shirt ($79.50) and patterned Bocara tie from Dillards.

Sterling sliver white Roman dial watch ($1,675) from Gem Collection.

Amy Forman

35: Pharmaceutical Representative and Wedding Planner Charity: Tallahassee Animal Shelter Foundation 98

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would

it be? Monaco, or on the beach somewhere.

Early bird or night owl? Night

I hate getting up early.

owl.

Old school book or e-reader?

E-reader.

Beer, wine or champagne? Beer. iPod question: Do you shuffle and take songs as they come, or stick with a playlist? Shuffle

songs as they come.

and take

What are the top five items on your bucket list? 1.

Drive a vehicle at least 150 mph 2. Trip to Napa Valley 3. See my children graduate from college 4. Attend the Super Bowl 5. Snowboard in Whistler, British Columbia

What food can you not live without?

Chicken wings. Hot and spicy.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know? My

father played in the 1954 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? I

tried to evade a law enforcement officer when I was a teenager. It didn’t work and they scared the hell out of me.

What advice would you give to a

10-year-old version of you? Learn

a foreign language and to play a musical instrument. I would also tell a 10-year-old that they should always listen before they speak.

Sometimes it is better to sleep on major decisions before immediately acting on them.

What radio station is on in your car right now? Any

station with music.

I hate talk radio and morning shows except sports talk radio.

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever had? At

the age of 12, I travelled through eight European countries and had my first kiss in Monaco.

Europe is amazing.

When/where do you get your best ideas? At

night in bed.

Life Is Great. Share Yours Today.

Six-Word Memoir

Lance Lozano 41: Chief Operating Officer of Florida United Businesses Association (FUBA) Charity: The Shelter of Tallahassee and Leon County Tallahassee

99

TOP Singles 2011 If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

Live For Today — There’s Always Re-Do. Six-Word Memoir

Laying on the beach.

Early bird or night owl? Both.

Beer, wine or champagne? Yes

:)

iPod question: Do you shuffle and take songs as they come, or stick with a playlist? I

like to shuffle through songs on my playlists.

What are the top five items on your bucket list? Watch

a baseball game at every major league field, run a half-marathon, travel to Ireland, open a bakery and be in Tallahassee Magazine.

What is your No. 1 turn off? People

who are selfish.

What food can you not live without?

Greek yogurt.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I play the piano and drums.

What do you keep in the trunk of your car? A

case of water and a case of sugar-free Red Bull.

Would you rather be called hot, cute, smart, funny or awesome?

Awesome.

How many times do you hit the snooze button? I

usually wake up before my alarm ever goes off.

What is your guilty pleasure? French

fries.

High heels, wedges or flip flops?

High heels.

Stadium tailgate or mancave bigscreen? As

long as I am watching sports ... I am fine anywhere.

On Kristen: Navy blue and pink butterfly patterned strapless dress by French Connection ($162), Steve Madden metallic platform sandal ($89.95) from Cole Couture. 14K Regency silver and gold necklace ($450), large hoop earrings ($220) and Regency Finch gold and silver bracelet ($225) from Gem Collection. Car: Mercedes Benz — 2011 E350 Cabriolet On Johnny: Daniel Cremieux dress shirt ($69.50), leather belt ($75), tie ($59.50), and Perry Ellis Tuxedo jacket ($165) and pants ($79.50) from Dillard’s. Daytona Chronograph black diamond Rolex ($10,400) from Gem Collection.

Kristen Hensley

31: Administrator at Centre Pointe Health and Rehab Charity: Chelsea House 100

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

Early bird or night owl? I’m a latenight guy. That’s why the snooze button has taken such a beating over the years.

Old school book or e-reader?

What’s an e-reader? … oh, I guess that means I’m old school.

Beer, wine, or champagne? I’m

so I prefer a good pint.

Irish,

Cats or dogs? I

sponsor the Leon County Humane Society. I love all animals!

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? My

single status. Thanks for the help, Tallahassee Magazine!

What food can you not live without?

It depends on whether you consider Coca-Cola a food.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know? I

was an Army officer and paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne and fought in the first Gulf War (Desert Storm).

Lawyer enduring life’s trials with laughter.

Six-Word Memoir

What’s your favorite thing that’s

hanging on your wall? A picture of my dad. He passed away a few years ago and I miss him every day.

Would you rather be called hot,

cute, smart, funny, or awesome? I would prefer “awesome” because it may imply all the other choices as well.

If you were asked by a child you love to tell the most important thing you have learned in life, what would it

be? When the officer says you have the right to remain silent, it’s time to be quiet.

What is your guilty pleasure? Since

one of the areas of law I practice is criminal defense, I would never admit to a “guilty” pleasure.

High heels, wedges or flip flops?

Flip flops … because high heels and wedges are too painful :) Stadium tailgate or mancave big-screen? Although

I love my big screen, I also love me some tailgating on college football Saturdays.

Johnny Devine 44: Criminal defense and personal injury attorney in the law firm Johnny Devine, P.A. Charity: Leon County Humane Society Tallahassee

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What do you wish you knew five years ago? That

CDs would go out of style and MP3s would take over. I would’ve saved a lot of money.

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in

Striving for excellence, accepting nothing less!

Six-Word Memoir

others? I admire dreamers and thinkers, those who want to do the impossible. I love being around confident people because it’ll spill onto you if you let it. I dislike negative people or people who try to discourage others from reaching a goal.

What is your No. 1 turn off?

Inconsistency and being inconsiderate.

What advice did your mother give you

that you actually used? My mom has said so many things it’s hard to pick one. “Don’t take any wooden nickels, because you can’t spend them.” And, “You only have one life, be happy living it.”

What advice would you give to a 10-year-old version of you? It’s

OK to be tall. You may not like it now, but in a few years it will work in your favor.

If you were asked by a child you love to tell the most important thing you have learned in life, what would it be? No

matter how much money you make or what you achieve, always make time for family, true friends and loved ones, they are the only things that money can’t buy and money can’t replace.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I aspire to become a novelist.

On Regina: Ivory dotted collar sheath by Trina Turk ($298), Diane Von Furstenburg gold sandals ($335) from Narcissus.

Raymond Hak cognac diamond hinged hoops ($790) and white diamond link necklace ($990) from Gem Collection.

Studio D plush patterned luggage ($100– $220) from Dillards. On Adam: Charcoal grey Daniel Cremieux blazer ($195) and pants ($95), shirt ($79.50), patterned Roundtree and Yorke Trademark tie ($39.50) from Dillards. Daytona Rolex sterling silver watch ($10,400) and sterling silver basket-weave engraved cufflinks ($325) from Gem Collection.

Car: BMW — 2012 650CIC

Regina Hall

28: Program Coordinator for Miracle Years Child Care Centers/Nursing Instructor at Lively Technical Center/Home Health Registered Nurse Charity: The Reading Rally 102

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

Don’t tempt me, I’m all in.

Six-Word Memoir

What characteristic do you most

What is your No. 1 turn off?

Boots, loafers, sneakers or flip

admire — or most dislike — in others?

Arrogance.

flops? Loafers. They’re casual and sophisticated.

I admire a smile. It is absolutely contagious and makes everyone feel better.

What are the top five items on your bucket list? 1.

Donate at least a million dollars to the Seminole Boosters 2.

Start my own band 3. Find the love of my life 4. Have a bunch of kids 5.

Learn to play the guitar.

What advice did your mother give

I have an amazing mother that always encouraged me to dream as big as I could and work to make it happen. According to her, nothing is out of reach and I still remind myself of that.

you that you actually used?

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t

Would you rather be called hot,

know? I

cute, smart, funny or awesome?

beat Billy Joel in a karaoke contest. Winning!

What’s your favorite thing that’s

Awesome for sure. I think it encompasses all the other terms.

hanging on your wall? Pictures

of family and friends. Possessions can only satisfy you temporarily, but the people in your life will make it meaningful and purposeful forever.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever

The best thing about living in

What advice would you give to a

Tallahassee is …? A

familiar face and Southern hospitality. I love walking into banks and stores, or wherever, and the people greet you by your first name or with great care.

done? Bloukrans

Bridge in South Africa. It is the highest bungee jump in the world and I did it with three of my best friends.

10-year-old version of you? Dream

big, and let your yes’s be yes’s and your no’s be no’s.

What was your first car? A

faded gold 1985 Delta 88 Oldsombile.

Adam Corey 31: Lobbyist, Gunster Attorneys at Law Charity: Seminole Boosters and YMCA Tallahassee

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Working to Live, Not Living to Work.

Six-Word Memoir

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

Right here in Tallahassee. I love this place.

Early bird or night owl? Oddly

enough, both. But if I had to pick one over the other, it would be night owl.

Beer, wine or champagne?

All three! Depending on the venue.

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in others? I admire honesty, and dislike dishonesty. I am real with everybody I meet, and I expect the same from them. Not everybody may like it, but you know what you’re going to get from me.

What advice did your mother give

Cats or dogs? Big

dogs.

A nonmotivated person. I am motivated in my career and personal life and I expect the same from the person I’m dating.

What is your No. 1 turn off?

What three words best describe you?

Gotta have fun.

What’s something interesting about

I mentor a 13-year-old boy through Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend.

The best thing about living in Tallahassee is …? The

diversity of this town, and there is always something going on.

What do you keep in the trunk of your car? Golf

clubs.

you that you actually used? Treat

What drives you crazy? Shooting

over an 80 in golf.

29: Vice President, VanAllen Insurance agency Charity: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend 104

J u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

done? Starting

my own company

from scratch.

What is a dream you’d like to have come true someday? That

my high school best friends and I will be retired by 40, all living on the same street with our families. The wives would probably not like that dream, but it would be a heck of a time.

you that a lot of people don’t know?

everybody with respect.

Michael Himmel

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever

On Michael: Polyester dress jacket

by HS&M ($195), Calvin Klein white Liquid Cotton Tee ($29.50) and MEK Denim jeans ($135) from Dillard’s. Seiko Premier black dial chronograph watch ($639) from Gem Collection. On Mallory: One-shoulder black dress by BCBG Max Azria ($368) and Steve Madden black satin dress sandals from Cole Couture ($89.95). Maria Christina dangle-heart earrings ($190), beaded necklace ($299) and 14K smoky quartz and diamond pendant ($1,890) from Gem Collection.

Early bird or night owl? You’ll find me at the gym early in the a.m. — staying fit is a top priority. I’m only a night owl on the weekends.

Beer, wine or champagne? Neither,

I’m a rum-and-diet kind of girl.

Cats or dogs? I’m

parent).

a cat lover (and

What characteristic do you most admire — or most dislike — in others?

I admire outgoing people, those who have no hesitation striking up a conversation with a complete stranger.

What is your No. 1 turn off? Smoking.

And bad teeth. Sometimes the two go together … there is nothing more disappointing than meeting a cute guy and watching him light a cigarette.

What advice did your mother give

you that you actually used? My mom usually gives me great advice, but one piece of advice I’m glad I’ve never taken is applying to be on the Bachelor/Bachelorette!

The best thing about living in Tallahassee is …? Helping

to shape its future into a more exciting and young professional-friendly city through my job and the Network of Young Professionals.

Would you rather be called hot, cute, smart, funny or awesome?

Smart. I’ve always valued education and learning, so I don’t understand why intelligence has lost its appeal in today’s society.

What is a dream you’d like to have come true someday? To

see m.leigh accessories (my budding gameday necklace line) on college campuses across Florida, then the Southeast, and eventually, the country!

What drives you crazy? Spelling

and grammatical errors. People who overdose on perfume/cologne.

Extremely loud bass. Insurance companies.

What is your guilty pleasure? Cheesy

pop music, especially old-school pop of the late ’90s and early ’00s.

She’s designing a life she loves.

Six-Word Memoir

Mallory Brooks 27: Program Coordinator at the Knight Creative Communities Institute and Social Media Monitoring Manager at The Zimmerman Agency Charity: National Eating Disorders Association Tallahassee

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What do you wish you knew five

Laugh Often.

Work Hard.

Be Classy.

Six-Word Memoir

years ago? Relax

and enjoy every moment as it is happening.

Everything happens for a reason.

Beer, wine or champagne? Wine,

and wine. Did I mention wine?

Cats or dogs? Neither.

wine

I’m allergic.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I

would try to be more spontaneous. I love to have fun, but sometimes I can plan too much.

iPod question: Do you shuffle and take songs as they come, or stick

Shuffle. One minute I’m listening to rap and the next it’s Frank Sinatra.

with a playlist?

What are the top five items on

Travel to Europe, complete Scuba certification, own a home, run the bases at Fenway Park, buy a pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes.

your bucket list?

What is your No. 1 turn off?

Insecurity. Everyone has something to offer — recognize it and embrace it.

What’s something interesting about you that a lot of people don’t know?

I was chosen to dance onstage with The Beach Boys for one of their concerts.

What do you keep in the trunk of your car? Currently,

there are actually parts of my car in my trunk.

I tend to hit non-moving objects quite frequently.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? Moved

to Atlanta (from Mississippi) after college, all alone.

What drives you crazy? Improper

use of Emoticons, especially by men.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Fair foods — giant corn dogs and funnel cakes.

When/where do you get your best

ideas? When I’m running, I overthink.

I’ve hatched many ideas and created philosophies while running.

High heels, wedges or flip flops?

High heels. I am actually 5-foot-3, but most people probably think I am 5-foot-7.

Sarah Duncan 26: Hardware Account Executive State of Florida Government at SHI International Corporation Charity: The Junior League of Tallahassee

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Good perspective makes all things relative.

Six-Word Memoir

Old School. There’s something about the feeling you get when you close a good book for the last time. I also like the way they look lined on my bookshelf, beginning with the book my mom gave me long ago, which spawned my fervor for reading.

Old school book or e-reader?

Beer, wine or champagne? Beer

near water, wine near food, champagne on New Year’s.

On Sarah: Pale blue and white ruffled blouse by BCBG Max Azria ($98) and 7 For All Mankind white shorts ($128), Steve Madden wedges ($46) from Cole Couture. London Blue Topaz engraved necklace ($1,270) drop earrings ($500) and diamond bracelet ($1,840) by Alwand Vahan from Gem Collection. On Casey: Ralph Lauren Polo ($89.50), Limited Big Star Vintage Collection ripped denim jeans ($136) and Cremieux Collection fedora, all from Dillard’s. Longine steel chronograph watch ($2,000) from Gem Collection.

What do you wish you knew five

It would have been nice to know that the housing market was going to crash. years ago?

Would you rather be called hot, cute, smart, funny or awesome? It

just so happens that most of my life I’ve been told that I am smart, funny, AND handsome; though I’m beginning to think that Grandma might be a little biased.

What advice would you give to a 10-year-old version of you? When

jumping from high places, such as a rooftop for example, an umbrella does absolutely nothing to slow your fall.

What advice did your mother give you that you actually used? To

wash my hands; I’ve worked at an elementary school, a preschool and two hospitals.

Hand washing has proven to be a useful practice. Mom also told me to

ignore people that are rude and/or negative. I do my best.

What is a fear you’d like to be free of? Lizards. I’ll jump like a giant sissy if one sits on my shoulder.

If you were asked by a child you love to tell the most important thing you have learned in life, what would it be?

I’d love to say that the things that set them apart from others, the things they may be teased and ridiculed for now, may one day be some of their best attributes; and somehow get them to believe it. I remember spending way too much time trying to “fit in” when I was younger.

What is a dream you’d like to have come true someday? The

one where I have superhero powers, obviously.

When/where do you get your best ideas? Usually from books or other people.

Casey E. Walton 30: Cardiac Rehabilitation Coordinator at Capital Regional Medical Center/ part-time bartender at The Moon Charity: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Tallahassee

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We Couldn’t Have Done It Without You

While the huge Top Singles photo shoot was fun and exciting, it wasn’t quick or easy — requiring the combined efforts of several individuals and businesses. For three days, our hosts at Hotel Duval were never quite sure where one of our 18 singles would be popping up for their photos. All of them took a trip to a local store for styling advice before their photo shoot day and spent an hour in the hair and makeup chair getting ready for their star turn.

Tallahassee Magazine offers a big “Thank You” to our Top Singles, along with all those who gave so much time and effort. The results are fabulous. stylIst/coordInator: MCKENZIE BURLEIGH art dIrector: SAIGE ROBERTS photographer: SCOTT HOLSTEIN story edItor: ROSANNE DUNKELBERGER male fashIons: DILLARDS female fashIons: COLE COUTURE AND NARCISSUS Jewelry/accessorIes: THE GEM COLLECTION makeup: SHERRY REESE AND LAURALEE MARIE REESE, SKIN THERAPY haIr: FUEL A SALON — SHERRIE CLARK, LAURA DIxON, JULIE NEWTON AND LAUREN BOEHME locatIon: HOTEL DUVAL, SHULA’S 347 GRILL, LEROC, LEVEL 8 automobIles: CAPITAL EUROCARS Intern assIstants: ALExIA MCKAY, DESIREE STENNETT AND CHELSEY GERMANI bellman (page 106): AUSTIN WICKSTRUM

Look for more questions and answers from our Top Singles, additional behind-the-scenes photos and videos and information about this year’s Top Singles event online. Visit tallahasseetopsingles.com.

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Photos by scott holstein, McKenzie burleigh and saige roberts

BEHIND THE SCENES A few snapshots of how we set the scene and the people who worked there (clockwise, from left). Ryan Dungey and Jill Chandler pose for our white-on-white cover shot; interns Alexia and Desiree had to list all the jewelry and clothing — and make sure it was all returned to the proper store; Amy Forman gets a touch-up from Sherry Reese; Sarah Duncan is unfazed by the pre-photo commotion; McKenzie and Scott set up for Kristen Hensley’s shot in Hotel Duval’s porte-cochére; and Caroline Conway gets in a little tub time.

July/August 2011

A Newsletter for the TCC Foundation

A Message from Jim Murdaugh

O

ver the last couple of months I have had the pleasure of being introduced at three “Meet the President” events, one each in Gadsden, Wakulla and Leon counties.

It has been an honor to meet so many of you at these events and in the community. Every time I speak with someone about TCC, I consider it an opportunity not only to share the excellence that exists on our campus, but also an opportunity to listen and learn from students and family members, from employers and job-seekers, and from everyone who cares about the future of the Big Bend.

At each “Meet the President” event, students were asked to speak to the impact TCC has had on their personal success. The stories shared were incredibly motivating and heart-warming to hear. At the event in Gadsden County, we heard from several students who have been part of our Educational Talent Search program and are now experiencing success in college. One student was afforded the opportunity to fly to Washington, D.C. to participate in a leadership conference. The flight alone has led to a desire to study avionics in college and that doesn’t even touch on the positive impact and connections he shared from the actual conference. A month

later, in Wakulla County, we heard from a gentleman who took free computer classes offered at The Wakulla Center to Wakulla County residents who were impacted by the Gulf oil spill. We also heard from a lady who has completed our Green Guide certification program and is turning a love of the Big Bend’s eco-culture into a sustainable career.

At the main campus in Tallahassee, we met a student who took advantage of our dual

enrollment program to earn her high school diploma and associate degree at the same time.

At only 18 years of age, she is transferring to FSU and continuing to pursue her dreams. Then a current FSU student recalled how TCC’s services for military veterans helped him maximize his college experience when he enrolled here after three tours of duty overseas.

We also met a professional motivational speaker who is a former president of TCC’s Returning Adult Student Organization. After earning her GED, she earned degrees from TCC and then FSU. She is an active member of the TCC Alumni Association and has created a scholarship at TCC in memory of her son, Brandon M. King, who was recently killed in the war in Afghanistan.

Although TCC has more than 14,000 students, we never forget that each one is unique. We want to be a successful part of each student’s story.

Thank you for helping us do that. You are an important part of our connection to the communities we serve, and we appreciate your support.

I welcome you to read my blog at blog.tcc.fl.edu/president or follow me on facebook at www.facebook.com/JimMurdaugh.

TCC Alumni Association Spring marked a busy time for the TCC Alumni Association. This year, we marched in the Springtime Tallahassee parade and gave out over 4,000 TCC Alumni Association recyclable grocery bags. The Alumni Association was also present at all three “Meet the President” events throughout the College’s tri-county service district. More bags were given out to each community as well as to all of the graduation class of 2011 at the commencement ceremony on April 30, 2011. Be on the lookout next time you are at the grocery store!

The TCC Alumni Association is a great way for alumni to reconnect with one another.

The Alumni Association offers opportunities each month for networking and fun for alumni of all ages and interests. Recent events have included hikes, lunches and wine tastings.

Alumni and friends may choose an annual membership or become lifetime members. For information about the Alumni Association and upcoming activities, visit alumni.tcc.fl.edu.

TCC’s entry in the Springtime Tallahassee parade included a walking unit of students, staff, alumni and the TCC Eagle.

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Capital City Caper raises $7,000 for Ghazvini Center for Health Care Education In April, the Tallahassee Community College Foundation hosted the fourth annual Capital City Caper, an event that raised more than $7,000 to benefit the Ghazvini Center for Health Care Education.

Teams of eight participants raced around the city solving physical and mental challenges, picking up points along the way during a zany limousine scavenger hunt. The winners of the event were announced later that evening during a dinner at the Mary Brogan Museum of Art & Science.

Proceeds from the event, along with other generous donations, will help fund the Ghazvini Center for Health Care Education. The 84,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art practice center will be located in the heart of Tallahassee’s medical corridor. The location will offer students easy access to the area’s major health care providers and allow for hands-on simulations of real medical situations. The Center will be open for this upcoming fall semester.

For more information about the annual Capital City Caper, visit www.capitalcitycaper.com.

Capital Health Plan took home first place.

Thank you to our generous sponsors

Congratulations to the winners of the 2011 Capital City Caper Inspector Gadget Level....CHP Birthday Brigade Scotland Yard Level....TMH/TMH Foundation Overall....CHP Birthday Brigade Best Costume....215 Jumpstreet

Pennington Law Firm’s team, “Who Loves Ya, Baby?” Pennington Law Firm’s “215 Jumpstreet” won best costume.

Presenting Sponsor

Supporting Sponsors

Not Yet Four!

Tallahassee Community College’s Fine Art Gallery recently exhibited “Not Yet Four” — an exploration of the creative legacy shared between mother and daughter — a collection of works from Artemis Housewright and Rudi Helfrecht.

The exhibit demonstrated Helfrecht’s journey as an artist, from her early childhood drawings to her career as a fashion designer. Helfrecht was

Bettie Bedell, Sarah Shaw and artist Rudi Helfrecht at the “Not Yet Four!” opening reception.

2 TCCJ FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER 110 u ly – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

influenced by her mother, well-known artist Artemis Housewright.

Helfrecht, who now lives in Virginia, travelled to Tallahassee to attend the opening reception. Among the guests was her best friend from kindergarten and many of her mother’s friends from when they lived in Tallahassee.

Tallahassee Community College’s Fine Art Gallery is located inside the Fine and Performing Arts Center. For operating hours, call (850) 201-6070.

Rudi Helfrecht tours TCC’s Ralph Hurst Gallery, which is home to one of her mother’s paintings.

Theatre TCC! students volunteered at each of the Capital City Caper clue sites.

Members of the TMH/TMH Foundation team attempt to catch water balloons with a bed sheet.

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TCC Foundation Scholarship Reception In April, the TCC Foundation hosted its annual scholarship reception to honor both scholarship patrons and scholarship recipients. The reception provided an opportunity for the scholarship donors and recipients to get to know each other and learn more about TCC’s scholarship program. Meaghan Pelissier, a scholarship recipient, spoke on behalf of the students. She expressed their appreciation of the support they receive from scholarships.

The TCC Foundation is home to 250 scholarship funds and awarded more than $250,000 during the 2010-11 academic year.

Foundation scholarships assist more than 400 TCC students each year.

(Clockwise from left): Curtis Richardson with a scholarship recipient; Reverend Ruth Mashewske and Carolyn and James Harold Thompson of Gretna Presbyterian Church with a scholarship recipient and her mother; Montserrat Webb, Jessica Bedoya, recipient of the Montserrat Webb Scholarship and Brig. Gen. Bill Webb; Kyra Jenkins, recipient of the Louis Hill, Sr. Scholarship with Almena Pettit

TCC Foundation 2011 Board of Directors OFFICERS:

DIRECTORS:

Mary L. Pankowski, President John Thomas, Vice President Susan Payne Turner, Secretary Rick Weidner, Secretary-Elect John W. Lentz, Treasurer Jimmy Suber, Treasurer-Elect Douglas S. Bell, Past President Pamella Butler, At-Large Officer Greg Thomas, At-Large Officer

Marshall Cassedy, Jr. Max T. Clark Patrick H. Dallet Kim Dixon Wayne Edwards R. Jai Gillum Major B. Harding Frank Holcomb

112 J u l y – A u g u s t 2 0 1 1 4 TCC FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER

Darrin Holloman Mike Illers Pamela A. Johnson Kim Kelling Engstrom Summer Knight David Miller Almena Pettit Russell B. Rainey Allison Tant Curtis Richardson

Brian Rowland Winnie Schmeling Michele Shapley Polly White

EX-OFFICIO: Jim Murdaugh Eugene Lamb Cal Brooks

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Travel

Destination: anDalusia (Capital: seville) / DistanCe from the tallahassee approx. 4,408 miles / airport: maDriD-Barajas airport (maD), 342 miles northeast of seville, aBout two hours By train / DireCt flights from: new york, Boston, atlanta, miami, newark, philaDelphia, washington

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AndAlusiAn

adventure HigH Speed TrainS and HigHwayS Make iT eaSy To explore SouTHern Spain

By JAck MAcAlEAvy

I

Royal SplendoR Sprawling across a hilltop in granada, the alhambra served as both a fortress and a palace complex.

n early 1492, an explorer and risk taker made a plea to the king and queen to invest in his journey west to prove the world was not flat and to discover and claim ownership for Spain of any new lands he and his crew would discover. It took several tries, but he eventually sold the royals on his idea, and they made the capital investment he needed to equip and supply his three ships. His name was Christopher Columbus — and the rest is history.

Spain is steeped in history, with settlements dating back more than 2,000 years.

And more than four centuries ago, the royal government recognized the value of and acknowledged its responsibility to restore, maintain and invest in the preservation of the country’s rich heritage.

Since the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Spain has made considerable investments in creating a highway system that connects most of the major cities. In addition, it recently completed and opened a high-speed rail system that allows the leisure and business traveler the ease and convenience of rapid access to almost all major cities in Spain (and they are working now on a high-speed train between Madrid and Lisbon, Portugal).

On this journey we chose to explore Andalusia, a Southern region of Spain that encompasses the Rock of Gibraltar and most of the southern coastline. Although Madrid is in the middle of the country, with direct flights from Philadelphia and Atlanta, it was our chosen point of entry. After a mid-morning airport arrival, it was a short cab ride to the train station, and after just a two-hour, tAllAHAssEE

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Travel Spanish sights The coast of Cadiz; (right) Grazalema, one of the country’s “white villages”; (below) Barcelona’s still-unfinished Holy Family cathedral, which has been under construction for more than a century.

175 mile-per-hour trip, we were in Seville, Andalusia’s largest city.

Seville is a city of 800,000-plus, which requires using public transportation and walking. Dating back to BC period, Seville is steeped in history and home to Alcazar, palace of the kings and queens that you need at least a half-day to wander through. Tour the El Toro Museum, housed within the ancient bullring or, if your timing is right, attend a Sunday bullfight, a ceremonial activity that has not changed in centuries.

Once in Seville, a rental car, which cost about $250 for a week’s use, was delivered to the hotel. Ours was equipped with a GPS navigation system that took 95 percent of the pain out of traveling the roads of Spain.

Make the time to explore the 1,250-square-mile Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, just a short drive outside Seville. The Fuente Lodge overlooks the pristine mountain town of Grazalema. One of Andalusia’s “white villages” — where all the buildings are whitewashed — it is a place where one can experience the simple daily life of rural Spaniards. There are many wonderful hiking trails well marked and designed for the simple to the most advanced hiker abilities. Ubrique, another white village of the region, is known for its leather industries with a shop-lined street filled with international designer brands selling at a fraction of the cost those goods go for after making their way to America.

One could complete a holiday shopping list and come home a hero.

For those who hike, or just love the outdoors, the trail system within the park is incredible. There are trails for all levels of experience, from a day trip to venturing deep for the overnight stay in a region 116

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where nature has created a breathtaking experience.

The delights of other Andalusian cities are easy drives away.

The three-hour drive to Granada takes you through agricultural regions of olive and almond orchards and wheat fields as far as the eye can see. They’re all immaculately groomed by generations of families living off their land.

If you plan early and are lucky, you’ll land a reservation at the Parador de San Francisco in Granada. The present-day five-star-rated Parador owes much of its architectural heritage to the construction of a Franciscan convent on this site soon after the fall of Granada in 1492. The Parador overlooks the Alhambra, a sprawling palace-citadel filled with royal residential quarters, court complexes flanked by official chambers, a bath and a mosque that can take most of a day to fully explore.

Also, consider a side trip to Cordoba, with a cityscape that showcases a whole world of striking history. People of diverse cultures and religions (Jews, Muslims and

Christians) have greatly contributed to the beauty of this outstanding place. Contemporary Cordoba is home to those most culturally “Spanish” activities — flamenco and bullfighting — and is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Southern Spain.

You might also choose to head westward to the coastal city of Cadiz, a trading port between Africa and Europe that pokes into the Atlantic Ocean and is connected to the Spanish mainland by a tiny isthmus. A city guide would be a good idea to help new visitors take in the high points and gain a more thorough historical insight. You may recognize some of Cadiz’s beaches and buildings, which were used to portray Havana in the 2002 James Bond film “Die Another Day.” If you have time left on your itinerary, head back to Madrid and catch another high-speed train to Barcelona, in the northeast of Spain.

A trek to Barcelona is well worth the effort. Home of the 1992 Summer Olympics, Barcelona’s waterfront is lined with fabulous modern art and five-star hotels. The ultra-modern Hotel Arts Barcelona (a RitzCarlton property) was named one of the top hotels in the world, and the service, room layout and location overlooking the Mediterranean are all worth the investment.

The two-day bus tour pass is the only way to get around, allowing you travel on the three city routes and get on and off anytime. One of the most incredible sights is native son Antoni Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia (The Holy Family) cathedral. It is designed in his original, sensuous curving avant-garde style with elements of Gothic and Art Nouveau. Under construction since 1882, this architectural marvel was consecrated just last November by Pope Benedict. Even though modern methods have speeded up the construction process, it isn’t scheduled for completion until 2026. Once finished, it will definitely be a monument for many centuries. Tours are available so one can see the many master craftsmen at work.

For more information on Spain, check out spain.info, the official Spain tourism site in English. n

“I enjoy advertising in a quality publication that presents my image well.”

J.C. Gayhartt, Owner of Trail and Ski

EVERYONE LOVES MAGAZINES. Reading a magazine is an intimate, involving experience. That’s one reason you spend 42 minutes on average with each issue and consider magazine reading as “my time.”1 Trail and Ski owner J.C. Gayhartt has placed an ad in every single issue of Tallahassee Magazine and knows the value of a loyal readership, saying, “We sell clothing and equipment for outdoor adventures, and I feel like Tallahassee Magazine goes to the upscale audience that I’m trying to target.”

And he’s right. A majority of U.S. respondents say an important feature of printed magazines is advertising helping them learn about new things for themselves and their family.2 “Tallahassee Magazine is a quality, glossy, good-looking production with a long shelf life — people pick it up and read it again and again,” says J.C. “It’s a good value, and I’ll continue to advertise.”

Tallahassee Magazine works for Trail and Ski. Call today to see how it can work for you.

1—Base: U.S. adults 18+; Source: GfK MRI, Fall 2010; 2—Deloitte’s State of the Media Democracy Survey, Fifth Edition, Feb 2011

CURRENT » QUOTABLE » WELL-READ (850)�878-0554 • tallahasseemagazine.com T A LL A H A SS E E

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Wedding Inspiration v Three Local Brides Share Their Secrets for Beautiful, Meaningful Nuptials

v

N

“Yes, I will marry you.”

ow, it’s crunch time for women who have been anticipating and secretly planning this day since they were little girls, imagining what guy would get the chance to be the Ken to their Barbie. Time to whip the wedding magazines out from under the bed and put together a day that will bring friends and families both joy and envy before jetting off to start a life with the new beau.

Stress and bliss can be found simultaneously in the flurry of dresses, traditions, rings, guest lists — and navigating the tricky shoals of parental expectations.

Some will tie the knot right at home in the church they grew up in with guest lists teetering around 500, while others will have more exotic locations in mind with only a few to witness their union.

Either way, the day she says “I do” is one no woman will soon forget.

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Photo Courtesy Kay Meyer Photography

Wedding v Inspiration

Ashley and Austin Myers

Whitney Fletcher Papaya Wedding Planning Wedding Gown New Image, Thomasville, Ga. Bridesmaids’ Dresses David’s Bridal Groomsmen Outfits Men’s Warehouse Cake Sweet Stuffed Bakery, Marianna Music/Entertainment DJ Randy Russ Catering Andrew’s Capital Grill and Bar Reception FSU Alumni Center Hair/Makeup Services Kelly’s Cottage/MAC Photography

Event Planner

Ashley and Austin’s wedding story > page 127

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Photos courtesy Whitney Fletcher

Wedding v Inspiration

Hannah and Derek Causseaux

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Sumner Home, Hosford Terri Smith Photo Wedding Dress Vocelle’s Bridal Bridesmaids’ Dresses Vocelle’s Bridal Band Crooked Shooz Groom & Groomsmen Seersucker suits from JoS. A. Bank Linens & Rentals The Party Center Reception Coordinator Nan Stewart Veil & Accessories The New Image, Thomasville, Ga. Wedding Director Cari McSpaddin, Bristol Caterer Charlie & Sherry Brown, Hosford Flowers Janet Taylor Designs, Blountstown Bride’s Book & Programs evyandgrace.com, Hosford Invitations/Save the Dates Green Quince, etsy.com Wedding & Reception Venue

Photos courtesy Terri Smith Photo

Photographer

Hannah and Derek’s wedding story > page 128

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Wedding v Inspiration

April and Nick Cole

2010

Best Golf Course

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Evangel Assembly of God Golden Eagle Country Club Photography Browne Photography Music/Entertainment Steve’s Party Mix Videographer Unique Video Creations Florist Missy Gunnels Flowers Cake The Cake Shop Linens Silver Lining Linens Chiavari Chairs InTentsEvents Transportation Mike’s Limousine Hair Ardans Salon, Lindsey Young Makeup Randi Buchanan Bridesmaids’ Dresses David’s Bridal Invitations/Program/Menu Designed and created by Nicolas and April Cole Wedding Favors The Painted Pretzel (thepaintedpretzel.com) Wedding Gown Kleinfeld Bridal, New York City Groomsmen Tuxedos Andrew Davis, Bloomington, Ind. Ceremony Site

Photos courtesy Browne Photography

Reception Venue

April and Nick’s wedding story > page 131 Ta l l a h a s s e e

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Presented by Hotel Duval and Tallahassee Magazine.

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From July 1–August 15, tell their story at

weddingsbyduval.com Member of the exclusive family of autograph collection hotels

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PHOTO COURTESY TERRI SMITH PHOTO

Wedding v Inspiration From Page 120

Ashley and Austin Myers

Kicking off the New Year with ‘I Do’

Photo courtesy Whitney Fletcher

A

shley Sauls and Austin Myers never spent a New Year’s Eve together — until their wedding night. While dating for two years at Southeastern University in Lakeland, the majority of their relationship was long distance. Shortly after graduating, Austin moved back to Ohio to care for his family while his father was battling colon cancer.

After his father passed, getting her parents’ blessing and saving up for the perfect ring, the Buckeye State native moved back to Florida and popped the question in May 2010.

The couple chose to have an evening ceremony at the Freedom Church on Thomasville Road in Tallahassee. Heavenly curtains of twinkling lights, tall vases with silver branches attached to the white orchids and burlesque-style ostrich feathers were a few decorative elements that made the evening elegant and magical.

“We really wanted the reception to be a New Years Eve party,” she says.

At 11 p.m., guests were given New Years Eve hats, party streamers and noisemakers to welcome in 2011 as a projection screen showcased the ball dropping in New York City’s Times Square.

A longtime fan of musicals and Broadway shows, the bride dedicated a special dance to the groom to Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel.”

Creating beautiful and delicious wedding cakes for the past 45 years.

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Wedding v Inspiration “I always said the bridesmaids were going to do a dance for my reception,” Ashley says, and she taught the dance to them the night before the wedding at her bachelorette party.

Guests toasted the newlyweds with sparkling grape juice, a tradition in Ashley’s family, and sent them off with a wave of sparklers.

“Our first kiss was on Halloween, the first time he told me he loved me was on Valentine’s Day and we got married on New Year’s Eve,” she says. — Alexia McKay

Hannah and Derek Causseaux

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‘The Sweetest Day’ Includes Home, Faith and Family

O

utside, underneath the massive oak tree she climbed as a child, Hannah Sumner made one of the most important decisions of her life — choosing Derek Causseaux as the man she would marry.

The two were college sweethearts and dated nine years before tying the knot at the Hosford home of Hannah’s parents.

Hannah says she had always envisioned her wedding indoors, as a brightly colored affair. But when it came time to plan the Sept. 4, 2010 nuptials, a neutral color palette and that old tree won her over. Let’s just say people don’t call it the “great” outdoors for no reason.

Photo courtesy Terri Smith Photo

HOTTER Than This!

From Page 122

Event Planner

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Wedding v Inspiration “Everything was the total opposite of all I’ve ever envisioned,” she said.

“And it was amazing.”

Although they didn’t know one another until their days at Florida State University, both grew up in Bristol, where they now live again.

Elements from their hometown were used throughout the ceremony. Old church pews were set up beneath the tree for their 150 guests along with old wooden crosses and Bibles.

Both the bride and groom come from close-knit families and wanted to emphasize family and faith in every detail of the wedding. Windows from Hannah’s grandparents’ old home hung from the limbs of the oak tree and table runners were made from the wood of the barn behind Hannah’s parents’ home.

Both families participated in the wedding ceremonies. Derek’s mother baked the groom’s cake — a pound cake the couple displayed on old weight benches reminiscent of the equipment in the gym Derek owns.

“Everything about the day was carefully chosen and sentimental in some way,” Hannah says.

During the poolside reception, guests were given cupcakes as a part of their dessert. A little different from the norm, these were presented in glass jars that declared they were “the sweetest way to end the sweetest day.” — Desiree Stennett

There’s No Place Like Home for a Wedding

N

o, she’s not in Kansas either, but that’s not the only thing new bride April Cole has in common with Dorothy, from The Wizard of Oz — both know all about happy endings and neither would dare underestimate the power of a good pair of sequined ruby red slippers.

Her new husband Nick Cole’s mother died a only few weeks before their engagement, but with three clicks of the red slippers that Nick gave her for Valentine’s Day — and nine months of planning — April and Ta l l a h a s s e e

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Mike’s Limousine Service

It’s your day to shine • Feel like Royalty • Arrive in Class and Style in one of our Limousines or Rolls Royce 010

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We have over 20 vehicles to choose from including our brand new 2011 Pink Hummer, perfect for bachelorette parties, bridesmaid luncheons or your wedding day

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www.vocellesbridal.com 1240 Thomasville Rd. Tallahassee, FL (850) 841-7663

By Appointment

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Best Limo Company

www.limomike.com

Wedding v Inspiration Nick managed to survive their tragedy and pull off a detailed wedding ceremony on Oct. 9, 2010, that could rival the storybooks.

“It turned out perfect, just as I envisioned it,” April says.

Theirs began as a long-distance relationship connected through a mutual friend, and it was love at first phone call.

“I knew he was special,” she says. “I married a man of tremendous character, strength and compassion.”

Although they have been living in Indiana for the last two years, Nick and April know that there’s no place like home. The couple came back to Tallahassee, where April went to college and where her parents and many of their 26-person wedding party still live, to have their wedding.

From Page 124

2010

Best Caterer

Photo courtesy Browne Photography

April and Nick Cole The ivory, gold and chocolate brown color scheme made the Cole wedding the picture of elegance they hoped it would be, and even the smallest details — right down to those ruby slippers April wore — represented their personalities.

Nick designed the couple’s invitations and April sang at the wedding as she had done for many of their friends. Nick and his grandmother also shared a dance to “Ave Maria” in memory of his mother who couldn’t be there to see the wedding.

Nick is now pursuing a graduate degree in Biology Informatics at Indiana University where April works as the assistant director of scholarships.

— Desiree Stennett

elegant creative unique distinctive info@klassickatering.com | www.klassic-katering.com (850) 894.0423 | (850) 509.5005 (mobile) Ta l l a h a s s e e

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Wedding v Inspiration

Looking for your own special someone? Take your search online.

Here are a few tips for perfecting a profile for some of today’s best dating sites: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect rIgHt now Don’t be put off by that big blank spot. Just jot down the things you would like someone to know about you and worry about the grammar and spelling later. stIck to tHe facts Tell it like it is.

Linda Mastaglio, a communications consultant who helps business pros write prose more effectively, says, “Honesty will help you attract the kind of person you really want.” keeP It sImPle, sweetHeart As you turn your draft into English, think about what it is within you that you want to share with someone else — and not necessarily a deep bonding of souls. keeP It clean Conform to the posting guidelines and polish up your writing. It doesn’t have to gleam; it just has to not have any glaring errors that would make you feel embarrassed if you spotted them later. let It Be After you write your profile, wait a day or two before posting it. Give it some more tweaks or a complete overhaul, then bring in a friend for a second opinion.

— Excerpt from “Get Off on the Write Foot,” by Mark Amundsen, featured in “happen,” Match.com’s online magazine.

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WEDDING SERVICES DIRECTORY CAKES

CAKES

BARTENDING

THE CAKE SHOP

KATIE’S CAKES AND CATERING

ON THE ROCKS BARTENDING SERVICE

The Cake Shop has been creating the most delicious and beautiful wedding cakes in Tallahassee for the last 25 years. Let our pastry chefs help you create the wedding cake of your dreams. 1908 Capital Circle NE (850) 386-2253 • TallyCakeShop.com

Katie’s has been creating unique cakes with love and care for brides in the Tallahassee area for more than 20 years. Each cake is made with pure, wholesome ingredients and custom-designed just for you.

Day and evening appointments are available. 108 E. 7th Avenue, Havana, FL (850) 539-7437 www.katiescakesandcatering.com facebook.com: Katie’s Cakes, Inc.

On the Rocks has been providing Tallahassee and surrounding areas with superior service for over a decade. We take care of the bar, of course, but we also want everything else to go smoothly and will lend a hand in any way possible — to ensure your event is something to remember. (850) 251-4147 ontherocksbartending.biz

CATERING

CATERING

HONEYMOON

KLASSIC KATERING

PREMIER CATERING

DND HONEYMOONS

Voted “BEST CATERER” by the local community for seven consecutive years. We’re unrivaled in our reliability, impeccable staff and ability to create unforgettable moments. Custom catering provided for ALL occasions — Weddings are our specialty!

(850) 894-0423 • klassic-katering.com

Premier Catering is a full-service catering company providing Tallahassee with a combination of superior cuisine, customized menus and professional service.

From formal weddings and corporate events to casual cocktail parties and dinners. (850) 544-3709 (850) 894-0389 premiercateringandevents.com

Karynn A Gross, CTA, ACC is Tallahassee’s premiere honeymoon specialist. Specializing in making dream honeymoons a reality for over 4 years!

1342 Timberlane Rd, Suite 201-A • Tallahassee FL 32312 • (850) 597-8538 • kgross@dndescapes.com

PLANNING

PLANNING/RENTALS

RENTALS

JOHN GANDY EVENTS

PANACHE TENT & EVENT

I design weddings that are unique from concept to completion. When working with me and my team, you can be assured we produce events that exceed your expectations! (850) 570-5999 • johngandyevents.com

Panache Tent & Event is a full-service event planning and rental company offering the region’s most upscale items needed to make your day special.

No matter how a space looks at the start, we can transform it into virtually anything you desire. (850) 227-9574 panachetents.com

FLOWERS

FLOWERS

THE GFWC WOMAN’S CLUB OF TALLAHASSEE’ S CLUBHOUSE Conveniently located in midtown Tallahassee in Los Robles at Thomasville and Meridian roads.

Available for rent for meetings, receptions, weddings or special events. 1513 Cristobal Drive (850) 224-0825 • womanscluboftallahassee.org

FLOWERS

A TOUCH OF CLASS FLORIST

MISSY GUNNELS FLOWERS

ARTISTIC FLOWERS

Every bride dreams of the day she walks down the aisle carrying her bouquet, created with flowers gathered from around the world, just for her.

Let’s get together and talk flowers......

Awarded “Brides Choice Award” three times by Weddingwire.com, studied wedding trends in Paris.

103 N. Main Street, Havana, Fl. (850)539.9774 atouchofclassflowers.com

We love flowers! We love weddings and parties!

This is honestly what we’re all about. The mother/ daughter team, Missy and Ellie, are full of fresh ideas and stylish dreams.

(850) 228-0354 missygunnelsflowers.com

Jamie Roberts, head designer.

777 Miccosukee Road Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 222-ROSE (7673) artisticflowers.com jaimierbts26@hotmail.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

PHOTOGRAPHY

ENTERTAINMENT

HAUTE HEADZ

CAROLINE V. STURTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

GT ENTERTAINMENT

Tallahassee’s Only Intercoiffure Full Service Salon.

From runway styles to formals, galas and weddings— we can do it all! Bridal Event Hair offered on and offsite for your convenience.

1447 Thomasville Road Tallahassee, FL 32303 (850) 224-0414 hauteheadzsalon.com

Caroline V. Sturtz Photography combines classic wedding photography with a modern documentary style to create photographic memories that are truly works of art. “Your Images. Your Memories.

Your Life.” (850) 668-2091 • cvsphotography.com

We make every event spectacular! GT Entertainment will make your next event unforgettable. We have been selected as Best of Tallahassee for 2010 and winner of the Tally Award since 2005. (850) 345-9094 tallahasseedj.com

Ta T A lL lL a Ah Ha A sS sS eE eE

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Wedding v Inspiration

Leaping Into Marriage

“J

umping the Broom” was this year’s must-see wedding-related romantic comedy. Released in early May, the movie tells multiple stories of two families from opposite sides of town who become united and divided through the African-American tradition of the bride and groom jumping over a broom after the wedding ceremony.

Although the concept seems simple, its meaning is etched in legacy and symbolism. The act of broom leaping comes from Africa. In a tribal marriage, the couple placed sticks on the ground to represent their new home. In the antebellum South, slaves adopted the act to honor their

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union, since they could not legally marry.

However, the practice has roots in the Celtic, Welsh, Druid and Gypsy cultures.

Jumping over the broom signifies the couple’s leap into a new life as husband and wife and sweeps away their formal lives of being single. The straws of the broom represent family, the handle, God, and the ribbon binds the couple together.

Usually the broom is beautifully decorated and placed in the path of the couple at the conclusion of the ceremony as they head to the reception.

Look for “Jumping the Broom” on DVD and Blu-Ray in August. — Alexia McKay

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Photo illustration by Saige Roberts

RECEPTION SITE DIRECTORY

RECEPTION SITE DIRECTORY

The Cord The Duesenberg The Cross Creek space with amenities t room has A a 15,000-square-foot A 15,000-square-foot space with amenities This 5,000-square-foot room has a including 72-inch including round tables, laptop presencony overlooking a golf 72-inch round tables, stage, 2,500-square-foot 9x12 balcony overlooking a golf tation ready, sound system, stage, dance floor, ude a prep kitchen, backlit projection, sound system, course. recessedAmenities lightinclude a prep kitchen, at-screen televisions, Seats up to chairs and afldance floor. ing, prep dancekitchen. floor, flat-screen televisions 60-inch andround a tables, chairs and a dance floor. available. 900 at tables or 1,500 prep theatre kitchen.style.

Seats up to 900 at tables Seats or up1,500 to 250. Wi-Fi available. le Museum Tallahassee Automobile theatreMuseum style. Wi-Fi available.

Tallahassee Automobile Museum • Tallahassee, FL Tallahassee,6800 FL Mahan DriveTallahassee Automobile Museum 6701 Mahan Drive • Tallahassee, FL www.tacm.com 6800 Mahan Drive • Tallahassee,www.tacm.com FL www.tacm.com

The Duesenberg A 15,000-square-foot space with amenities including 72-inch round tables, stage, 9x12 backlit projection, sound system, recessed lighting, dance floor, flat-screen televisions and a prep kitchen. Seats up to 900 at tables or 1,500 theatre style. Wi-Fi available.

Tallahassee Automobile Museum 6800 Mahan Drive • Tallahassee, FL www.tacm.com

m and Gardens Golden Eagle Country Henderson Club Park Inn Goodwood Museum and Gardens t Goodwood, A full-service nestled in awedding At this venue, adults-only, Golden Gulf-front Eagle boutique Plan your hotel, next affair at Goodwood, nestled in a in the heartCountry of TallahasClub has privacy more than seekers 20 years will fiofnd the ultimate grove sanctuary of live oak trees in the heart of Tallahasngs take youexceptional from the food presentation for romance.and Theservice. inn boasts Plan-intimate see. rooms, Let our surroundings take you from the eryday life to ning anyour elegant event is luxury simple,amenities, stress freecharming and moreterraces hustle andand is the bustle of everyday life to an elegant ting. affordable than you region’s think!only all-inclusive hotel. Enjoy turn-of-the-century comsetting. d • Tallahassee, Michelle FL Griggs • plimentary (850) 893-7700 beach chairs/umbrellas, 1600 bicycles, Miccosukee Road • Tallahassee, FL w.goodwoodmuseum.org www.goldeneaglecc.org gourmet breakfast, picnic boxed lunches, (850) 877-4202 sunset • www.goodwoodmuseum.org drinks at the “Tiki” bar and more.

Ryan Olin, Innkeeper • (888) 836-1105

Henderson Park Inn At this adults-only, Gulf-front boutique hotel, privacy seekers will find the ultimate sanctuary for romance. The inn boasts intimate rooms, luxury amenities, charming terraces and is the region’s only all-inclusive hotel. Enjoy complimentary beach chairs/umbrellas, bicycles, gourmet breakfast, picnic boxed lunches, sunset drinks at the “Tiki” bar and more.

Ryan Olin, Innkeeper • (888) 836-1105

The Retreat at Bradley’s PondThe Golf Club at Summerbrooke Mission San Luis mmerbrooke Thehistoric Retreatwith at Bradley’s remains one Club of at Summerbrooke provides a your us! WithPond a merbrooke Make provides a wedding The Golf Tallahassee’s best kept secrets. Offering many new hall, enclosed outdoor ur special day or250-seat events banquet fantastic venue for your special day or events amenities, it is a 5,000 square-footleading heatedup and of beautiful grounds, dding. Our courtyard Club offersand 65 acres to your wedding. Our Club offers cooled building,offers with you 1,700 of spaces both inside and poolside and this National Landmark a square-feet nside and poolside and Historic beautiful wraparound Pond is aready one- to meet your needs, creating elegant and unique settingporches. for yourBradley’s very our needs, most creating we are stopby shop for your rehearsal dinner, wedding special occasion. woodlandfi elds photography occasion. special day. Photography a memorable, and Street reception needs. Bring 2100 West Tennessee • Tallahassee, FLthe licensed 53) (850) caterer 894-GOLF (4653) your choice, planner, florist, bartender, (850) 245-6406 • of www.missionsanluis.org olf.com www.summerbrookegolf.com photographer and plan YOUR perfect day.

Everything you dreamed of and more!

9002 Bradley Road • Tallahasseee, FL (850) 561-6328 • www.bradleyspond.com

The Retreat at Bradley’s Pond The Retreat at Bradley’s Pond remains one of Tallahassee’s best kept secrets. Offering many amenities, it is a 5,000 square-foot heated and cooled building, with 1,700 square-feet of wraparound porches. Bradley’s Pond is a onestop shop for your rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception needs. Bring the licensed caterer of your choice, planner, florist, bartender, photographer and plan YOUR perfect day.

Everything you dreamed of and more!

9002 Bradley Road • Tallahasseee, FL (850) 561-6328 • www.bradleyspond.com

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Planning a Picture-Perfect Destination WeDDing

Photo Courtesy Kay Meyer PhotograPhy

What Every Couple Needs to Know Before Saying ‘I Do’ Away From Home By Rosanne DunkelBeRgeR

W

hen many a bride-to-be envisions her perfect wedding, images of vows on the beach against the backdrop of a spectacular sunset comes to mind.

Fortunately for those of us who live in Tallahassee, there’s no need for family and friends to jet off to a faraway, exotic locale to indulge in that dream wedding. Some of the world’s best beach venues can be found along the Northwest Florida coast within

a three-hour drive of our doorsteps. You’ll find sites appropriate for small, intimate affairs or elaborate, weeklong fantasy-wedding extravaganzas — and everything in between.

“It’s the most beautiful place in the world,” says Barbara Miller, special events manager at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. “We have this white sand; we have this green water. You don’t need to go to the Caribbean.”

Special Promotion

Tallahassee

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Special Promotion

Tallahassee photographer Kay Meyer, who has shot dozens of weddings along the Northwest Florida coast, says she loves the relaxed vibe that comes along with a destination wedding. “It’s like everyone’s on vacation … the reception is always fun,” she says. “It’s like an escape for everyone.”

But planning a destination beach wedding comes with its own set of challenges. Some are huge — what if it rains? — while others are more of an annoyance, like having a sunburned beachcomber bending over in the background of your first kiss photo.

While many brides initially contact Sandestin’s Miller with a beach wedding in mind, she says, “the beach is sometimes the start of our conversation.”

Lovely in concept, many things make a wedding on the beach more problematic than any other outdoor wedding. For example, elderly guests may find it difficult to navigate through the sand, heat in the summer months can be brutal, it may be hard to hear the vows without a sound system and coastal breezes can wreak havoc on carefully created hairstyles. And here’s one you probably never thought of, courtesy of Tallahassee

event planner John Gandy: One bride’s vision of a row of lanterns lighting the way down the sandy “aisle” during her evening wedding was thwarted because it was turtle nesting season.

“They may not necessarily want their feet in the sand; they want the pictures,” Miller says. “With a resort like Sandestin, we’re able to work through what their wishes really are — there’s a lot of give-and-take.”

Sandestin’s most popular beach wedding months are May and October. It’s uncomfortably hot during the more traditional summer months, says Miller.

Meyer says couples should consider November or January for a beach wedding. “It still looks the same in pictures, except they’re not sweating,” she says.

Many brides choose one of Sandestin’s bayside locations for their nuptials, with an indoor venue for the reception. In all cases, the resort requires couples to have an alternate indoor location in case of bad weather.

Other beachside accommodations along the Gulf coast don’t require or don’t have a backup venue, but it’s something that should be taken into consideration during wedding planning.

“It’s like everyone’s on vacation … the reception is always fun. It’s like an escape for everyone.”

Photographer Kay Meyer

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Photo Courtesy Kay Meyer Photography

Special Promotion

Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort has been Northwest Florida’s premier wedding location for more than 11 years, offering an experienced, professional staff and impressive facilities guaranteed to make your wedding day special. When your dream wedding includes sand between your toes and your vows perfectly timed with the sunset, nothing could be better than the sugar-white sands of our beaches. Our area’s beaches have been named as top favorites by USA Today, Travel Channel and Southern Living.

From destination weddings to beach weddings, Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort offers more services and amenities than any other resort on Panama City Beach.

Our wedding planners have everything covered. From the airport shuttle and stocking the bridal party’s suites with champagne, flowers and snacks, to kids’ activities, babysitting services and onproperty spa and salon services, Edgewater’s professionals will

coordinate whatever you require to create your dream wedding.

There is no need to stress about the weather on your wedding day either, since our team always has an indoor backup location ready to use with only six hours notice. And our award-winning culinary staff will create special cuisine for every part of the celebration, from the rehearsal dinner to the farewell brunch.

From planning to catering, every detail of your wedding is taken care of by our wedding planning team, whose mission is to make your special day unforgettable. To view our Grand Wedding Events in Promises, visit www. edgewaterbeachresort.com. To start making plans for your special wedding, please fill out our wedding inquiry form online or for more information regarding weddings, please contact our catering sales manager at (850) 235-4977 or email kerri.maney@resortspcbeach.com

11212 Front Beach Road | Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 235-4977 | www.edgewaterbeachresort.com

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Even if the wedding isn’t on the beach, photographer Meyer says there are ways to fit in a sand and surf photo during what she calls “the magic hour” right before sunset. “The sun is so low that it doesn’t produce any shadows,” she says. Earlier in the day, “it’s almost impossible to get a picture without a squinty face.” After the eating commences at the reception, she will whisk the bride and groom off to the beach for a quick photo shoot. “They’re relaxed and the pressure is off and they can just have a good time with it,” and be back in time for the dancing and cake cutting.

People in the know say an experienced coordinator will save many wedding-day headaches. And that’s not a role necessarily filled by a resort’s onsite wedding planner. It varies by venue, but in the case of Sandestin, Miller says she is in charge of setup and food service. “I’m not there the day of to get them down the aisle,” she says.

While the resort has lists of recommended vendors, couples are on their own when it comes to hiring a photographer, florist, officiant, entertainment and more.

Some venues require clients to choose from a limited selection of vendors who may have minimum required expenditures, which can “eat up your budget easily,” says Gandy, citing one resort whose florist expected to do at least $5,000 worth of work.

Meyer says a professional (“not a friend of the bride”) planner is imperative. “There’s so much that’s out of your control,” she says. At the November wedding of Jen and Darrh Bryant at Destin’s Henderson Park Inn, a 144

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sudden cold snap put a chill on the outdoor festivities. But, she says, Gandy saved the day with propane heaters and pocket hand warmers. Planners can also help “pull the look together,” says Meyer, and may actually have many decorative items in stock that would otherwise have to be rented or purchased.

Only half jokingly, Gandy advises newly engaged couples, “as soon you call your parents you should call a good planner.”

The pouring of unity sand — a symbol of two separate lives becoming one — is a beach wedding tradition, but a “coastal” theme for the wedding and reception is not a necessity, says Miller. In fact, elaborate decorations aren’t necessary because Mother Nature provides the ultimate backdrop.

Locations do tend to book up on Saturdays during busy spring and fall months, but if one can be a little flexible — getting married on a Friday or Sunday, for example — there can be more choices and savings. “Flexibility is always great,” says Gandy. “That way, you can really work your budget.”

Once the venue has been secured, it’s a good idea to send save-the-date cards so guests can book rooms and perhaps make a vacation during their wedding trip.

With a little forethought, it’s possible to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf beaches — with a wedding on the side.

Photo Courtesy Heidi Mitchell Photography

Special Promotion

Ashley McWhirter & Matt Morries Ashley and Matt Morris were married on December 18, 2010 at the Pisgah Methodist Church.

After honeymooning in the Virgin Islands, they now reside in Tallahassee.

Photo By Jennifer Powell

Tallahassee

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FISHING FOR THE PERFECT WEDDING

Jennifer and Darrh Bryant

John Gandy Events PhotogRaPheR: Key Meyer Photography RecePtion/ceRemony venue: Henderson Park Inn cateReR/BaR Tim Creehan and Company FloRal DesigneR: Missy Gunnels Flowers haiR stylist: Hair on Earth — Jordan Cosgrove cake: Confections on the Coast DJ: GT Entertainment invitations: Paper by Candy Woodward viDeogRaPheR: Unique Video Creations make-uP Two Fishes Artistry linens/coveRings Kent’s Tents & Special Events WeDDing BanDs The Gem Collection BRiDe’s DRess: Eva’s (Oak Lawn, Ill.) designed by Stephen Yearick Couture gRoom’s/gRoom’s attiRe: Jos. A Banks BRiDesmaiD’s DResses: Love (Jacksonville) accessoRies FoR the BRiDe anD BRiDemaiDs: Narcissus event PlanneR:

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Special Promotion

Photo Courtesy Kay Meyer Photography

D

arrh Bryant was the first neighbor to welcome Jennifer Anderson to the Lakeshore neighborhood.

“He was standing in a pile of fire ants while he was introducing himself,” she says, reminiscing on how he approached her from his home across the street while she was mowing the lawn. “He didn’t notice them until I told him.”

On August 2009, the local dentist asked the Illinois native to be his wife over a sunset beach picnic.

Jennifer knew she wanted to personalize her Nov. 6, 2010, wedding to be a commemoration of family tradition and intimate relationship experiences.

Both fans of fishing and the water, the couple had their ceremony at Henderson Park Inn on Destin beach. Guests were given flip-flops to trot across the sand along with sand pails for the kids.

Jennifer wore her father’s mother’s garter belt and her mother’s veil.

Catlilies and orchids were the bride’s grandmothers’ favorite flowers and used in Jennifer’s bouquet. The rings were carried down the aisle on a fishing pole, reminiscent of the proposal, when Darrh attached a love letter to a fishing hook.

The reception tables, diverse in shapes and colors, were named after fish they had caught together.

Food stations were set up across the reception area, each one a reminder to the couple, such as the sushi station representing their first date at Kitcho Japanese Restaurant in Tallahassee.

“We tried to make the food reflective of us,” she says. The groom’s cake, a chocolate pistachio with mocha filling, was a scrumptious duplicate of his boat.

At the end of the ceremony, guests threw beach balls as the newlyweds walked out into the sunset.

“I think the biggest question people ask is whose house are you living in,” Jennifer says, laughing. She moved across the street to his place.

— Alexia McKay

Making Your Dreams

Come True ...

Expect to be enchanted with the perfect setting for your intimate beach wedding. Located across from the Gulf, you can host your family and friends in our charming rooms and have your wedding on the sand!

The Beachside Inn in Destin’s Crystal Beach area offers you and your wedding guests amenities such as free Wi-Fi and an inviting two-tier swimming pool with a hot tub. This offers the perfect setting for your rehearsal or reception dinner, utilizing the onsite restaurant and coffee shop, Camille’s.

For more information, call (888) 232-2498 www.DestinBeachsideInn.com Info@DestinBeachsideInn.com

Tallahassee

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The Pub From Ireland

FINNEGAN’S WAKE Northern Florida’s only Authentic Irish Pub Live music & Full bar Guinness, Bass and Smithwick’s on tap Watch real football on flatscreen TVs Open 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Everyday 850.222.4225 | thepubfromireland.com 1122 Thomasville Road, Manor@Midtown 148

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Live music Dance Music Provided by Greg Tish/GT Entertainment 37 Draught Beer Taps Two Full bars with spirits, wine and beer Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights Located next door to Finnegan’s Wake 850.298.8092 | Facebook: Fifth-Avenue-Tap-Room 1122 Thomasville Road, Manor@Midtown

home&

GARDEN

CHECK IT OUT

» Beat the heat

While vacationers enjoy the sunshine, Floridians are all too familiar with scorching summer temperatures. But putting one home appliance to proper use goes a long way toward neutralizing everyone’s heat discomfort.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s website, fans create a wind chill effect that adds comfort on a sultry day. “Ceiling fans are considered the most effective since they circulate the air in a room to create a cool draft,” the site says.

Ceiling fan use can cool utility expenses as

well. “It costs about 50 times less to use ceiling fans than air conditioners,” says Bob Seaton, retail energy services manager for the City of Tallahassee. “A 50-watt ceiling fan at medium speed costs .07 cents to use per hour,” he explains. “It costs 37 cents to use air conditioning from a medium-sized central cooling unit.”

Seaton suggests raising air conditioning temperature settings one or two degrees higher and using ceiling fans more often for “huge savings,” adding that residents save about

design | tips

12 percent in utility costs for every degree they adjust their thermostats.

Keep in mind that fans are only effective when they’re used correctly. Setting the fan in a counter-clockwise rotation helps move air downward to circulate through your living space. Fans with larger, 52-inch blades move more air in larger rooms but would be overpowering in smaller areas. Also, it’s OK to turn fans off in empty spaces since they cool people, not rooms. — Terrika Mitchell

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Habitat

Green With Envy How You, Too, Can be King of the Grass

By Jason Dehart and Lis King

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THE LAWN QUESTION Time, money, pets and children will help determine whether you want a “carpet” of turf or opt for more beds and plants.

Photo by scott holstein

I

f you are yard-obsessed and jogging jealously past your neighbors’ lush lawns, you’re not alone. Floridians love their yards, even more so than the rest of the country, according to the National Gardening Association, and that’s saying a lot now that gardening has become America’s No. 1 hobby.

“It’s because of the nice climate that we have, especially in Tallahassee,” said Jared Hatcher, president of Mowing Masters Lawn & Landscape. “There is lots of shade and a lot of trees, and I know a lot of neighborhoods take pride in their landscaping with lawn-of-the-month contests.”

Taking pride in your yard is one thing, but sometimes it can go a little too far. Realtors complain that some homeowners — especially those who moved here from cold regions — are so enamored by their pleasant new climate that they overwhelm their yards. Balance is the key, Hatcher said. You need a nice mix of evergreen plants and shrubs, and annuals and perennials for color.

“Sometimes less is more,” he said. “A lot of it too is making sure the landscape doesn’t overgrow the home. We’ve done jobs where we’ve renovated landscaping (because) the shrubs and trees got so big they hid the house or (became) too much for the yard. The smaller the yard, the easier it is to become crowded.”

Planning Matters Hatcher said planning the perfect garden for your yard takes good planning and foresight. There are a lot of variables to consider, with perhaps the biggest thing being time. Do you have time to maintain it? Or, if you are going to pay for a professional, how much are you willing to spend? The more annuals, flowers and bedding there are, the more weeding and upkeep of mulch and pine straw is required. A lawn with just grass is going to take less time and tending.

“Also, if they are going to do it themselves, they need to consider pets, if they have dogs. Also, if they have kids,

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you’re going to have to plan for a play set or a swing set. There are a lot of variables, but (the major ones are) time, money, pets and kids,” he said.

Many mistakes can be made, but one point is especially prickly: Homeowners buy plants without knowing their growth habits. Hatcher said this should be an integral part of any planning process, whether you do it yourself or have it done professionally.

“If you’re going to do it yourself you could have a landscape architect or company draw up a design or plan for your yard after consulting with you,” he said.

“Ask about upkeep and maintenance, what you want your yard to look like.

Obviously a good company will consider the size of how big the plants will be fully grown. If you’re going to do it yourself, most plants have tags that give you planting instructions, amount of sunlight and water needed, spacing and size when they are fully grown. That is a good guide to go by.”

Brave New Lawn The lawn is the most changed area in today’s yard. For some years now, homeowners have been re-thinking that perfect lawn we know from putting greens and English manor houses. Tired of high water bills, mowing every week and a schedule of fertilizing and weed control applications, they’re taking a good, hard look at new garden strategies.

Xeriscaping, a term based on the Greek word for “dry,” is one of those strategies.

It emerged first in the Western U.S., where water resources are thin, but has spread to other regions.

“Many xeric principles are simply common sense,” explains Pam Johnson of Barefoot Lawncare, based in Santa Rosa Beach. “For example, it includes using native plant materials rather than exotic imports. Playing up the colors and textures of indigenous vines, shrubs and perennial flowers can create fabulous gardens.”

Hatcher said he hasn’t seen that kind of landscaping in Tallahassee as much, but he’s noticed that some neighborhoods tend to make use of the native or naturally occurring plants that haven’t been “planted” there.

“Whatever is supposed to be there naturally, is there,” he said.

“And there are many types of grasses, some of them drought-resistant,” adds 152

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How much “green” to get the grass green?

A typical estimate for lawn service will include prices for weekly lawn cut, weeding beds, trimming hedges, a chemical program, etc. These items may be priced individually or lumped together as a monthly maintenance price. Usually, companies discount prices if you sign up for several services.

A weekly lawn cut for half an acre averages $30 to $50.

Expect to pay $25 to $50 per month for weeding beds.

Landscaping Myths Taking care of a yard is mired in myths that can lead to common landscaping mistakes.

“Water your lawn in the evening to conserve water.” Not true. Doing so is harmful. The water ends up sitting on top of the grass, allowing lawn fungus and disease to fester.

“If I mow my grass shorter, I won’t have to do it as often.” Not so. You’ll rob your lawn of its ability to produce sugar from photosynthesis, exposing sensitive root systems to excessive sunlight and giving weeds a leg up.

Denelle Polk, owner of Pizazz-Scape in Fort Walton Beach, “so even if you’re conservation-minded, you needn’t forego a lawn.”

Florida-friendly grasses St. Augustine grass, the most widely used in Florida, is the closest the state comes to a native grass. This grass is believed to be indigenous to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Mexico and the Mediterranean. It produces a blue-green dense turf that has good salt and shade tolerance, but it has its negatives. It needs lots of fertilizers and water, doesn’t wear well and generally doesn’t stay green throughout the winter months.

In Tallahassee the predominant grass seems to be Centipede, which requires less fertilizer and maintenance. This grass,

which is only adapted for Northern Florida, grows best in acidic, sandy soils that don’t retain water and it survives dry spells well. Both types have found a home here in places suited for them, Hatcher said.

“St. Augustine grass doesn’t do well unless it’s in the shade and has plenty of water. It takes more fertilizer, because it’s more prone to weeds and disease. In the shadier areas there’s a lot of St. Augustine,” he said. “As far as big open yards and pastures, those are definitely going to be Bahia — unless planted in Centipede.

Centipede is less maintenance and does well in the sun. It normally won’t grow in the shade. When it comes to neighborhoods and lawns, what we maintain is 70 percent Centipede and 30 percent St. Augustine. But both need a lot of water.”

The Right Landscaper There are a lot of landscaping services out there, but if you’ve decided you want someone who doesn’t just arrive with a machine and spend 15 minutes charging around your lawn, you need to do some homework. Instead of just opening the phone book and signing a contract with the first company listed, you should interview a few firms. Remember, not every lawn care service offers the same services, certifications and professionalism.

Hatcher suggests you get references from each company you’re interviewing, and then go look at the lawns and gardens they’re taking care of.

“I’d ask for 10 examples of jobs they’ve done around town,” he said.

Also make sure the service has business, liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and ask whether they provide work beyond lawn care.

“A company that is licensed, insured and established is probably going to be more expensive than someone without license and insurance,” Hatcher said.

Johnson jumps right into the fray and suggests you ask this question: “Do you have a pesticide license?” She says the answer will tell you a lot more than whether the person you’re interviewing is legally allowed to treat your lawn. It will also reveal if he has had some training beyond mowing his parents’ backyard.

Also, make sure the firm gives proper notice before spraying chemicals, as you’ll want kids and pets out of the way.

Finally, be sure to outline the work to be done in writing. n

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The doctors are in, and they are answering questions. In this special section, Tallahassee Magazine offers you a chance to get to know some of the area’s leading health care providers dedicated to keeping you healthy inside and out. These medical professionals discuss their specialized skills, backgrounds and how they can help with your all-important health care choices.

special adv ert is ing s ect ion

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Michael L. Douso, M.D.

Capital Regional Women’s Health What services do you provide?

Gynecology and urogynecology.

area of specialty?

Women’s medicine and minimally invasive surgery.

hoW long have you been in practice in tallahassee?

Since 1989.

Why did you choose tallahassee as the place to Work?

Kathy Langston, M.D.

General Surgeon, Capital Regional Surgical Associates What services do you provide?

General surgery, laparoscopic surgery, breast surgery, trauma surgery and critical care.

hoW long have you been Working in your profession?

Eleven years, practicing in Tallahassee five years.

Why did you get into this profession?

With its relaxed atmosphere, Tallahassee is a great place to live and have a family.

I enjoy being able to identify a problem and fix it.

What is the secret of your professional success?

I am now affiliated with the Comprehensive Breast Center at Capital Regional.

The ability to relate personally to my patients as individuals.

has your practice expanded recently? in What Way? I have joined Capital Regional Women’s Health, which allows me to offer a greater range of technologies and services.

What describes your vieW of your profession, and What do you hope to accomplish?

has your practice expanded recently?

hoW Would you describe you practice philosophy?

Patient-centered care.

hoW do you measure success in your profession?

Patient and family satisfaction.

“I hope to bring to women’s health the most advanced and effective treatments available.”

What are your hobbies and interests?

contact

contact

Capital Regional Women’s Health 2770 Capital Medical Boulevard, Suite 110 Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 877-5589 156

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Running, fishing, outdoor sports, boating.

Capital Regional Surgical Associates 2626 Care Drive, Suite 105 Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 219-2306

spec ia l a dve rt isi ng sec t ion

aWards, honors and recognitions?

I was elected chief resident during my residency at the TMH Family Practice Residency Program and voted “Backup of the Year” by the Intern Class during my residency.

hoW, When and Why did you get into this profession?

It appealed to me to be able to make a positive impact in the lives of many people.

hoW Would you describe your business or practice philosophy?

Working with patients to improve their quality of life by focusing on preventative medicine using an evidence-based approach.

What is the “secret” of your business or professional success?

Treating my patients like I would want my own family members treated and taking the time to listen to and understand my patients’ concerns.

Paul F. Hartsfield, M.D.

Family Practice Physician, TPCA What services do you provide?

Comprehensive medical care with a focus on prevention.

area of specialty?

hoW do you measure success in your profession?

Knowing I made a positive impact in a patient’s life through improved health.

What brief statement Would describe your vieW of your profession?

“It is an honor to be serving and giving back to the community that has meant so much to me throughout my life.”

Family medicine, from pediatrics to geriatrics.

contact

Why did you choose tallahassee as a place to Work?

TPCA 1885 Professional Park Circle, Suite 30 Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 877-5143

I was born and raised in Tallahassee. I can’t imagine working anywhere else.

Cody VanLandingham, M.D. Family Practice Physician, TPCA

Dr. Cody VanLandingham joins Tallahassee Primary Care Associates in the offices of Dr. Hugh VanLandingham (his brother), Dr. Gary Winchester and Dr. Karl Hempel in mid-July.

He is a graduate of the Florida State University College of Medicine as well as the TMH Family Practice Residency Program. While at FSU he received the O. C. Harris Award for demonstrating the best overall promise of becoming a physician of the highest caliber and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

Dr. VanLandingham looks forward to providing health care in his hometown community. He chose Family Medicine because it allows continuity of care throughout life, from pediatrics to seniors. He is also convinced that preventive medicine will be the cornerstone of his practice.

Outside of the office, most of Dr. VanLandingham’s time is spent with his wife, Somer, and his two wonderful sons. They enjoy spending time at the coast and attending FSU athletic activities.

contact Dr. CoDy VanLanDingham is now aCCepting new patients.

TPCA 1511 Surgeons Drive, Suite C Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 701-0695 TALLAHASSEE

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Jeffrey M. Rawlings, M.D., F.A.C.S. Plastic Surgery of North Florida Board Certified Cosmetic Surgery What are the services you provide?

Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Why did you choose tallahassee as a place to Work?

Tallahassee is a wonderful place. I grew up in Thomasville, so I was already familiar with Tallahassee and it’s close to my hometown.

Who are your clients?

Anyone who is concerned with their appearance.

hoW, When and Why did you get into this profession?

I’ve always enjoyed working with people. My father was a physician and I saw not only how much he enjoyed it, but also how gratifying it was for him.

hoW Would you describe your practice philosophy or strategy?

I don’t have to do everything under the sun. I do one thing and do it very well.

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What is the “secret” of your professional success?

My staff. I have the best staff in the world. My patients are happy and well taken care of from the time they make the first phone call until they are completely healed.

hoW do you measure success in your business or profession?

Happy patients! My goal is for every patient to feel like an important individual. I believe my patients are truly happy when they’re done and that, of course, makes my day.

contact 2056 Centre Pointe Lane Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 668-6888 Fax: (850) 656-2822

mind&

BODY

In FOcus

» SKIN CARE FOR GUYS

Women aren’t the only ones with a skin care regimen anymore. At least they shouldn’t be. Not only are cosmetic lines creating mentargeted products, but local day spas offer facials and treatments especially for men. Shirin Rahimi, owner of Styles of Elegance Hair Salon, Day Spa & Skin Therapy says she has seen an increase in her male clientele. “A lot of men come in for acne treatment,” she says.

“Sometimes young professionals are so busy they don’t have time to care for their skin.”

Still, Rahimi notes at-home skin care is

necessary. “All skin must be cleansed,” she says. Men with facial hair have to make sure they get under the whiskers to the skin’s surface.

The good news for men is that they have a head start on the cleansing process. Unless they work outdoors in extreme conditions like construction, guys’ skin is pretty healthy since it’s thicker, they don’t wear make-up and do exfoliate regularly. “Men’s skin exfoliates more than women’s because they shave,” Rahimi says.

The day spa owner recommends sun block

your life | well-being

use to prevent sun-induced skin problems like skin cancer.

“Even though they have thicker skin, they need to use sun block,” says Julie Moss, licensed esthetician with Tallahassee’s Plastic Surgery’s skin care clinic. “Some clients deal with hyper pigmentation from the sun especially (in Florida). Mineral-based sun block actually blocks the sun.”

She suggests men develop a cleanser, scrub and sun block regimen to maintain healthy skin. — Terrika Mitchell

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Health

Middle Management Belly fat can be the toughest to take off and can lead to major health problems if left unchecked.

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The Skinny On Fat There’s good fat and bad fat. Learn the difference — and keep both in check through exercise and eating right. By Janeen Talbott

E

veryone has it, most want to get rid of it and some are actually trying to gain more of it.

For women, it’s the cursed word loved ones don’t utter if they want to stay on their good side. For men, it’s the thing that has them wishing they’d spent fewer hours on the couch and a little more time in the gym.

It’s fat, and for the millions of Americans suffering with obesity, it’s their worst enemy.

Although it may be your unwanted tenant, fat doesn’t necessarily deserve to be evicted.

the six essential nutrients humans must have in order to survive.

“Fat has gotten a very bad name in our society but it has a purpose that’s good,” says Dr. Alfredo Paredes, Jr., a local plastic surgeon.

“Fifty percent of the population has just got too much of it.”

There are four types of body fat: white, brown, subcutaneous and visceral. Understanding them can help us figure out what’s good, what’s bad and how to keep it all in control.

What is Fat?

Hopefully you’re not getting the wrong picture here. Fat isn’t all good.

The bad stuff that hangs around your midsection is known as visceral fat — and it’s the most detrimental to your health.

Tucked deep within your waistline and around your organs, it can increase your risk of developing heart attacks, diabetes, insulin

While the dictionary definition — “bulging with much, or too much flesh” — conjures up an unpleasant image, fat’s not all bad and is actually a large part of what keeps us alive. It stores energy, insulates the body, helps to regulate our metabolism and cushions our vital organs. Unbeknownst to many, fat is one of

The Bad

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Health

resistance and other obesity-related diseases if you have too much of it.

While visceral fat can make you sick, subcutaneous fat can make wearing a bikini a nuisance because it’s right below the skin.

Subcutaneous fat — what we call cellulite — is a hormone-secreting organ that coats the buttocks, thighs and hips like a film of cling-wrap.

Wonder why it seems like you can never get rid of it?

Tallahassee nutritionist Dr. Freddy Kaye has the answer. “[Cellulite] is a combination of fat and water. It’s almost like the body holds water ... so it makes it a lot harder to lose.”

Although this fat is considered less lethal, recent studies have not necessarily ruled out connections to fatlinked diseases.

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On the opposing team, we have white and brown fats.

The body naturally accumulates more

white fat than brown fat as a person gets older. The job of white fat is to keep energy stored away until needed. It also secretes hormones into the bloodstream that are necessary for the body to remain balanced.

“Fat is an interesting place in the body,” says Paredes. “It’s a place where hormones get converted to other, more active forms. That’s why you’ll see obese people often get hairier.”

Research is showing that fat may also be home to stem cells — cells that could be teased out of the fat to ultimately be grown into bone, cartilage and other body tissues, according to Paredes. “There’s actually a lot of really exciting research that may trump this whole argument about embryonic stem cells,” he says.

Unfortunately, this is the fat that builds up because of bad eating habits.

Brown fat is located on the back and upper spine and is most abundant in childhood, acting as an extra blanket that keeps the body warm. It’s usually stimulated when a person is cold. “It’s like a

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Portion Control The 20-year-old food pyramid recently gave way to the new, more colorful MyPlate icon, which the U.S. Department of Agriculture has deemed easier to understand, especially for children. Among the changes, a smaller daily serving of dairy and a message to eat smaller portions.

hibernating fat,” Kaye says. “It’s used as energy and is the last fat to go.”

Considered to be much like muscle, brown fat is more prevalent in slimmer individuals.

Getting Rid of It Don’t think about getting “rid” of fat.

It’s not that easy. Realistically speaking, your fat cells don’t really “go” anywhere.

According to Kaye, by the time we hit age 12, we develop all of the fat cells we’ll ever have. And without liposuction, which physically removes the cells from the body, it is impossible to get rid of them. What you can do is shrink them. That’s exactly what happens when a person burns more calories than they consume.

Some studies have shown that some obese people who had liposuction actually improved their blood sugar levels, Paredes says, but don’t race to the phone to make an appointment to have 50 pounds of belly fat sucked out. At this point, the risks of surgery far outweigh the potential benefits. “You’ve got to lose it the hard way,” he says.

The very good news is that when obese people lose weight — fat — health problems disappear. Paredes says his practice sees many patients who have had massive weight loss (MWL), in need of surgery to remove excess skin and fat. “I ask when they cured their diabetes and blood pressure, I really don’t ask if,” he says.

Ever wonder where fat goes when people lose weight? It doesn’t vanish. It is transformed.

Much like water that turns into steam when boiled, fat is converted into something else when burned, which makes the cells that store the fat decrease in size.

When we work out and burn more calories than we’ve taken in, the body is forced to look for energy stores to keep it running. That’s when it turns to burning fat, our reservoir of stored energy.

But be careful, Kaye warns. Individuals who lose weight are more prone to gaining it back again because they have more fat cells. That explains why it’s oftentimes easier to gain than lose weight. Paredes has another warning. Although liposuction will remove fat cells, they have an infinite capacity to grow. “The cells you have left can become much, much larger,” he says. “So if you keep eating Big Macs every day, the remaining cells can just engorge with fat.” tALLAHASSEE

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Health

“No fat is really easy to lose. You’ve got to change the habits that cause the accumulation of fat to keep it off.” — Nutritionist Freddy Kaye Keeping it Off Although exercise has a large role in keeping the body lean, working out is only half of the battle. Diet plays a large part too.

Like the fats in the body, there are fats in foods that have different effects on the body’s efficiency.

Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are the good guys. Monounsaturated fats include olive oil and are found in foods such as avocados and almonds.

Polyunsaturated fats include Omega-3 fatty acids that are anti-inflammatory and are found in fatty fish like salmon.

These fats help with brain function and can help prevent liver cancer.

Saturated and trans fats should be avoided. They raise levels of bad cholesterol (low-density lipoproteins) that can increase the risk of coronary heart disease. Helpguide.org suggests foods such as cookies, tortilla chips, stick margarine and chocolate drink mix should be consumed in moderation because they may contain these.

As for the rest of the food pyramid, dietician Penny Kris-Etheron of medicinet.com states that, “eating a diet rich in whole grains while reducing refined carbohydrates changes the glucose and insulin response and makes it easier to mobilize fat stores.”

Exercise and the recommended amount of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy and protein can help whip a body into tiptop shape.

For those who may still feel a little discouraged about a spare tire or two, keep looking on the bright side and steer clear of shortcuts.

“No fat is really easy to lose. You’ve got to change the habits that cause the accumulation of fat to keep it off,” Kaye says. n

dining

GuiDe

restaurants | food | atmospheres

first course

» REFRESHING DRINKS BEAT THE HEAT

Summer is here and many of us, though excited about the warmer weather, won’t be enthused about the inevitable sensation that comes with being hot: thirst.

That parched feeling we get in our mouths and at the back of our throats is triggered by a loss of fluids often caused by sweating. Water, the No. 1 and probably most common thirst quencher, usually gets the job done. But although we understand the importance of H2O in our diets, its taste often falls a little flat.

Punch it up this summer with palatepleasing drinks. Citric acid isn’t just great for warding off colds. Scientists say its chemical makeup has all the properties necessary to combat thirst. No wonder that swig of lemonade or O.J. always hits the spot.

While they may not be as popular, pineapple and tomato juices have the same citric acid content, making them just as refreshing.

For those looking for something with more kick, cocktails may be just the right remedy. Chambord-flavored vodka and Per-

rier is Grandma’s homemade lemonade with a twist. Mix two ounces of Casa Noble Crystal tequila, one ounce of fresh lime juice and a splash of club soda for a light — and light on the calories — Tequila Lime Fizz.

Or, just refresh with a chilled beer. Although it does contain alcohol, which can be dehydrating, don’t feel too guilty. Its carbs, proteins, minerals and B vitamins are doing your body some good. And besides, a large percentage of its composition is water.

— Janeen Talbott

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Flavorful Family Fun in the Great Outdoors

By Wendy O. Dixon and Brittany Barriner

Back to Nature Cooking on a campout takes plenty of preplanning, but it’s easy to serve hearty, fun meals in the rough.

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Make the Most of Your Next Camping Excursion With Portable Feasts

n

othing brings a family together like camping. It’s one of those rare activities that begs Mom and Dad to turn off the smart phones and for the kids to leave the video games at home, to disconnect from all things electronic and instead connect with nature.

Whether you’re the type to go all-out primitive and walk for miles to pitch a tent in a secluded area, rough it modern style on a campsite that offers water, toilets, picnic tables and grills or prefer to be somewhat of a luxury camper and bring an RV, family time in the wilderness is an unforgettable experience. And while the old camp food standbys — hot dogs, beans and s’mores — will get you through the day, there’s no need to settle when it comes to your outdoor meals.

Keith Walker, 88, who has been camping since age 11, proves that five-star meals can be made from fire and coals. Walker says he has made everything from seafood to homemade apple pie over a campfire.

One of his all-time specialties was English Sparrow pie — although it’s not one you might want to try.

“My brother and I would shoot sparrows near a barn on Lake Bradford Road, clean them, get a pot and a fire going, and make English Sparrow pies,” he says.

First-time campers may wonder how to plan and prepare a weekend’s worth of meals that will satisfy many appetites and still be easy to carry to the campsite. Seasoned campers suggest planning menus in advance by making a detailed list of items and ingredients you’ll need. That means everything from paper plates to salt and pepper, since you’ll likely be out of luck if you forget something. The list should include cooking equipment — pans, pots, bowls and cooking utensils — and cleanup items such as biodegradable dish soap, paper towels, disposable wipes and garbage bags. tALLAHASSEE

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Flavor

Flavorful Family Fun in the Great Outdoors Porcupine Burgers

Snake Biscuits

Ziploc Omelet

By Vicki Adams

By Karen Roland

Makes 24

Serves 4

Warning: Do NOT try this recipe

Equipment

Ingredients

A large mixing bowl, two cupcake tins, cupcake papers and “bulldog” clips.

2 cups Original Bisquick mix ½ cup milk Butter to taste

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef 1 package hamburger/ meatloaf mix 1 cup precooked instant rice ½ cup water Mix all ingredients in a bowl and form meatballs the size of large golf balls.

Place cup cake liners in cupcake tins and place one meatball in each space.

Place another cupcake tin upside down on the filled tin and fasten with bulldog clips, place on a bed of coals with coals on top for 15–20 minutes.

Stir Bisquick mix and milk to form a dough. You have to play around with the consistency, making it a bit dryer than drop biscuits. I usually don’t use exact measurements, but just add milk until it feels right.

Make a snake-like shape with the dough and wrap it around a clean 1-inch diameter stick (green sticks are better because they’re less likely to burn). Hold the stick above the fire coals until nicely brown, about 10-12 minutes. Slather with butter and eat it off the stick.

A popular camping recipe is the Ziploc (or any other brand name of a plastic bag) omelet.

While it sounds ingenious, cooking eggs and other ingredients mashed together in a plastic bag submersed in boiling water may be hazardous to your health. When a plastic bag is heated to temperatures higher than 195 degrees, it begins to melt, causing the release of carcinogens. The Ziploc company says Ziploc brand bags are not designed to withstand the extreme heat of boiling. Instead, bring a pan to make omelets over the fire.

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Cajun Shrimp Boil

By Chris Metcalf

Serves 20 Equipment

An 80–120 quart pot filled halfway with water will work, depending on the amount of shrimp or crawfish you plan on cooking.

Ingredients

15 pounds of head-on shrimp (or 1/2 pound of headless shrimp per person or 3 1/2 pounds of crawfish per person) 20 ears of corn, halved 2 dozen lemons, halved 8–10 pounds small red potatoes, whole 6–8 large onions, quartered 10 pounds smoked sausage 6–7 garlic bulbs, whole 2–3 pounds of salt (to taste) 3 packages of Zatarain’s Crab Boil (1 package per 5 pounds of shrimp, or use 16 ounces of cayenne pepper as substitute) 3 sticks of butter (optional) 2–3 bags ice Bring potatoes, onions, lemons, salt, crab boil, garlic, sausage and butter to a boil for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are cooked. (Take in all the smells of the mixture, because it is a wonderful thing.) Add corn and shrimp, and let them boil for three minutes only. Turn the cooker off and add ice immediately into the pot and let the shrimp soak — the longer soak time, the spicier they get. For crawfish, cook for about 10-15 minutes, then add ice and soak for an additional 20 minutes. Once finished, place newspaper on a table and dump the contents. Squeeze the boiled garlic onto French bread or on the boiled potatoes. Also, if you want, serve with squeezable butter for added flavor on your potatoes.

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Flavor

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2010

Carryout/ Gourmet to go

2785 Capital Circle NE 576-4488 • www.yoursecretpantry.com 170

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Keep food safe from spoilage by packing perishable items in ice and storing them in sturdy coolers, which will also keep critters from smelling the food. Use hand sanitizer frequently to avoid spreading germs onto your food. And light-colored blankets can cover the coolers to extend the life of the ice, keeping your food cool for nearly an additional day. Bring plenty of bottled water for drinking and cooking.

If camping in remote areas, bring water purification tablets.

For breakfast, consider breakfast burritos — eggs, sausage, veggies and cheese wrapped in a tortilla — along with bacon and pancakes.

Vicki Adams, a regional director for the Girl Scout Council of the Florida Panhandle, says Girl Scouts love this special treat: muffins in an orange.

Cut oranges in half and remove the meat. Fill each orange half about a third to halfway with muffin batter and place on a piece of foil large enough to twist at the top. Place in hot coals and bake 15-20 minutes.

For large groups, one-pot meals are easy to prepare and clean up. Low Country Boil, a traditional Southern dish, requires only a large pot and a gas burner.

The main ingredients — shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob and red potatoes — can be tossed into the pot to make a hearty and satisfying meal.

When making your own campfire, make sure you’re using designated areas and something to contain the fire. Steve Cutshaw, park manager at Torreya State Park, says to ensure safety, fires should be contained by a circular ring formed of rocks or sticks and should never be left unattended.

Even with containment, during high winds and low humidity he says it’s wise not to start a campfire. And fires used to burn trash should not be used to cook with, because toxins released could contaminate food.

“For fires, oak, hickory or hardwood adds great flavor to food,” Cutshaw says.

After a long day of hiking, eating, fishing, eating swimming and eating again, end the day with the tried and true tradition — s’mores. Some say camping just isn’t camping without the graham cracker sandwiches filled with chocolate and marshmallows. A few rounds of B-I-NG-O with a good ghost story around the fire make a perfect ending to a memorable family experience. n

dining guide 2010 Best of Tallahassee.........................

Breakfast/Brunch....................................

Lunch......................................................

Dinner.....................................................

Takeout Available...................................

Outdoor Dining......................................

Live Music..............................................

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Reservations...........................................

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Up to $10............................................... $ $10 – $15................................................$$ $15 and up.......................................... $$$

Authentic Mexican Restaurant 2010

TWO LOCATIONS

2022 N. Monroe St. (850) 878-0800 NEW LOCATION!

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2915-301 Kerry Forest Pkwy.

(850) 668-1002

Gourmet Specialty A LA PROVENCE $$$ French. A rich décor and graceful atmosphere create a memorable dining experience, offering French-Mediterranean cuisine, including Crepes De Mer and Escargot de Bourgogne. A complimentary amuse bouche, a bite-size appetizer, allows chefs to show off their culinary skills to guests. 1415 Timberlane Road. Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Mon.–Fri., Dinner 5:30–9:30 p.m.

Mon.–Sat. (850) 329-6870 A.J. Sports Bar & Grill $ American. This hangout spot is known for its sandwiches, backyard burgers and flavored wings. Watch sports from one of their 50 flat screens, shoot some pool or play darts, or enjoy happy hour. 1800 W. Tennessee St. 5 p.m.–2 a.m. Mon.–Fri. and noon–2 a.m.

Sat.–Sun. (850) 681-0731 Andrew’s 228 $$$ American and Italian. A chic urban restaurant serving signature blends of creative American and Italian cuisine. Named one of the Top 20 Restaurants in Florida three years in a row by Florida Trend and “Best Romantic Restaurant” by Tallahassee Magazine in 2008. Private rooms are available for banquets and meetings. 228 S. Adams St. 6–10 p.m. Mon.–Thu., 6–11 p.m. Fri.–Sat. (850) 222-3444.

Andrew’s Capital Grill and Bar $$ American. Andrew’s, a Downtown landmark for 35 years, is an energetic, casual, see-and-be-seen spot.

House favorites include a popular lunch buffet, hamburgers, chicken quesadillas, Mediterranean Pasta, Cedar Plank Salmon and Chicken Fiorentina. Downtown delivery. 228 S. Adams St. 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon.– Thu., 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri.–Sat.; Brunch 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. Sun. (850) 222-3444/Fax (850) 222-2433.

Another Broken Egg Café $$ American. Made-to-order items using the finest ingredients, cooked to your liking. Voted Tallahassee’s best seven times, including the 2010 award for “Best Breakfast and Best Brunch.” Tallahassee’s second location is now open in Evening Rose at 5740 Austin Davis Ave. Original location, 3500 Kinhega Drive.

7 a.m.–2 p.m. Tue.–Sun. (850) 907-3447.

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Tallahassee’s BEST wine list and balcony bar!

• Voted BEST wine list 2010 by Tallahassee Magazine • Two full liquor bars • Wednesdays FREE wine tasting 5:30–7:30 pm • Happy Hour every day, including Saturday!

• Chic lounge setting • Outstanding small plate menu and desserts • Tallahassee’s only Balcony Bar overlooking Midtown

www.thewinelofttallahassee.net facebook.com/winelofttallahassee 850.222.9914 Open Mon–Thur 5pm ’til | Fri & Sat 4pm–2am

2010

Located at the Orleans@Midtown

1240 Thomasville Rd.

The corner of 6th Ave & Thomasville Rd.

THE BEST LITTLE STEAKHOUSE IN TALLAHASSEE

Dining Guide

CHEZ PIERRE $$$ French. French and Southern hospitality converge at Chez Pierre. From the signature Crepes Poulet to delicious grilled duck breast and fresh-ground Australian lamb burgers, the restaurant earned “Best Happy Hour” and Best Outdoor Dining” honors by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine in 2010. Live music accompanies your meal most nights of the week. Sun.-Thurs.

11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 1215 Thomasville Rd. (850) 222-0936.

Circa Sushi $$ Japanese. Enjoy delicious Japanese dishes in the fun, modern atmosphere of Tallahassee’s first conveyer belt sushi restaurant. Diners can opt for tableside service and menu selections such as Thai specialities tempura and noodle stir-fry, or they can sit beside the belt and partake of a rotating sushi feast.

Catering available. 2819 Mahan Dr. No. 106. Lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Mon.–Fri.; Dinner 5–10 p.m. Sun.– Thurs., 5–10:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat. (850) 222-4722.

Cypress Restaurant $$$ New Southern. Voted “Best Fine Dining” by Tallahassee Magazine readers in 2010. Sophisticated Southern regional dining in a contemporary, metropolitan setting. Menu features chef-cut fish and aged meats, fresh in-house preparations, comprehensive wine list and full bar. Valet parking available at night.

320 E. Tennessee St. Dinner only Tues.–Sat. Open at 5 p.m. (850) 513-1100.

2010

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Join us for lunch and dinner at our beautiful new location on Apalachee Parkway.

Our steaks are not only the best in Tallahassee, but USDA choice midwestern corn-fed beef, specially selected, aged to our specifications and cut daily. We also serve fresh jumbo shrimp and fish – grilled, blackened or fried. So please join us for lunch and dinner or just meet up for drinks at our fully-stocked bar.

F

MARIE LIVINGSTON’S STEAK HOUSE

2705 Apalachee Parkway | Tallahassee, FL | (850) 270-9506 172

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Food Glorious Food $$$ American. Choose from several savory soups, nearly a dozen salads, and a great selection of sandwiches and pastas with hot entrées that represent a variety of world cuisines. Heavenly dessert concoctions — voted “Best Dessert” in 2010 by Tallahassee Magazine readers — will please even the most discriminating diner. 1950 Thomasville Road. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Mon.–Sat., Dinner 5:30–9:30 p.m.

Tues.–Thurs. and Sun., 5:30–10:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat., Closed Mon. for dinner. Sun. Brunch 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (850) 224-9974.

Georgio’s $$$ American. If George Koikos is in the house, you can count on a visit to your table from him during your meal. His hands-on commitment to quality, food, service and a personal touch have kept his restaurants in business for 44 years. Now with two locations.

3425 Thomasville Road. Opens 5 p.m. Mon.–Sat. (850) 893-4161 or 2971 Apalachee Parkway. 4–10 p.m.

Mon.-Sat. (850) 877-3211.

Kitcho Japanese Restaurant $$ Japanese. Its specialty, sushi, was named the best in Tallahassee in 2006. Step inside Kitcho’s Velvet Lounge for a sip or two of sake as you sit comfortably while waiting for your table. 1415 Timberlane Road. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5:30–10 p.m. Tue.–Fri., 5:30–10 p.m. Sat., 5:30–9 p.m. Sun. (850) 893-7686.

Liam’s Restaurant $$$ American. Located in historic Downtown Thomasville, Ga., Liam’s serves delicious sustainably sourced, natural, organic foods. The menu changes based upon what the owners find to be the best available

ingredients from small artisanal producers. Look for a catch of the day along with great tasting beef and pork dishes. A large selection of cheeses is a specialty here. 113 E. Jackson St. Lunch 11a.m.–2 p.m. Tues.–Fri. Dinner 5:30 p.m.–close Thurs.–Sat. European Breakfast 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sat. (229) 226-9944 Mockingbird Café $$ Fusion. Enjoy hand-cut steaks and Gulf seafood along with American regional, Mediterranean, Asian and Middle Eastern dishes in an upscale refined atmosphere. Food is fresh, locally purchased and seasonal, made from scratch by talented in-house chefs.

Diners will also enjoy delicious seasonal desserts, nightly food and drink specials and live music on weekends. 1225 N. Monroe St. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Mon.–Sat., dinner 5:30–10 p.m Mon.-Sat. Bar/ lounge 5:30 p.m.–2 a.m. Mon.–Sat. Brunch 11 a.m.– 2:30 p.m. Sun. (850) 222-4956.

Sushilicious $$ Japanese. Modern Japanese and Thai cooking makes Sushilicious the place to enjoy a culinary trip to the Orient. With a six-page menu of makimono, sashimi and special sushi rolls, sushi lovers have plenty of options. You can also enjoy the red and yellow Thai curries, the deep-fried crispy soft shell crab with tempura sauce or the house shrimp with honey-wasabi sauce. 2915 Kerry Forest Pkwy., Suite 604. Lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Mon.–Fri. Dinner 5–10 p.m. Sun.–Thu., 5–10:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat. (850) 906-0400.

VINTAGE BISTRO & BAR $$$ Fusion. Vintage Bistro & Bar has a new chef and a revamped menu. Its palate-pleasing menu offers selections featuring local and fresh ingredients. Relax and unwind with live entertainment, a cocktail, a fine cigar and, of course, a glass of wine from hundreds of selections. 1019 N. Monroe St. 5 p.m.– 2 a.m. Mon.–Sat. (850) 224-0322.

Specialty Anthony’s Wood Fire Grill $$ American and Italian. After 26 years in Betton Place, restaurateur Dick Anthony has returned in a new location with a new menu featuring grilled chicken, steak, fish and hamburgers. Italian favorites that made the original Anthony’s so popular have returned on the “First Loves Second Chances” portion of the dinner menu. 1355 Market St. Lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Mon.–Fri., Dinner 5–9 p.m. Mon.– Sun., Brunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Sun. (850) 224-1447, anthonyswoodfiregrilltallahassee.com AZu — a Lucy Ho’s restaurant $/$$ Asian. Serving Tallahassee since 1970, Lucy Ho’s offers Japanese style cooking with Cantonese, Sichuan, Hunan, Peking and Taiwanese influences. After nearly four decades, Lucy Ho’s has moved back to the Apalachee Parkway, just east of Capital Circle Southeast, to better serve its customers. Diners will also find a full bar and the freshest sushi. 3220 Apalachee Parkway. Weekdays, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat., noon– 10 p.m.; Sun., noon–9 p.m. (850) 893-4112.

Good Food.

Good Drinks.

Good Times!

••• Vintage Bistro & Bar 1019 N. Monroe St. 850.224.1175 ••• Friend us on Facebook for a free appetizer. www.facebook.com/vintagetally

PRODUCING AND DISTRIBUTING FRESH, HIGH-QUALITY COFFEE LOCALLY

Wake UP your LUCK! WHOLESALE • RETAIL • PRIVATE LABEL • CORPORATE GIFTS • FUNDRAISING

luckygoatcoffee.com | brooke@luckygoatcoffee.com

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Dining Guide Bella Bella $$ Italian. Cozy home-like atmosphere and authentic homemade traditional Italian food make this a Midtown dining hotspot. Try their famous Bubble Bread and delicious pasta specials. Catering available. 123 E. 5th Ave. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Mon.–Fri. Dinner 5–9:30 p.m. Mon.–Thu., 5–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. (850) 412-1114.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill $$ Italian. The ambiance of the restaurant can romanticize any meal as you sip wine and dine on fresh Italian cuisine. Voted “Best Italian” by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine again in 2010. 2752 Capital Circle NE. 4–10:30 p.m. Mon.–Thurs., 4–11:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat., 3–10 p.m. Sun. (850) 297-1100.

The Crepevine $ French Fusion. Delicious signature crepes are stuffed with fillings that make them savory or sweet. You can order from the menu, or create your own. Breakfast-style crepes are served all day long. The menu at this casual bistro also includes salads and yogurt bowls. 2020 W. Pensacola St., (850) 562-7373; 1304 N. Monroe St., 329-6754. thecrepevine.com

atmospheres Earley’s Kitchen The Cuisine: The kitchen of Executive Chef Jay Morrell serves up classic Southern comfort food for breakfast and lunch. Entrees, including fried chicken, braised oxtails, fried catfish, pork chops and smothered shrimp with parmesan cheese grits, are served with fresh, made-from-scratch sides like macaroni and cheese and collard greens.

The Design: Jorge Mateo of MDG Design Studios has given Earley’s Kitchen a traditional Craftsman look.

The walls are lined with 6-foot-tall beadboard wainscoting and trim.

Earley’s Kitchen 3196 Merchants Row Blvd. Suite 110 (850) 692-3491 ADVERTISEMENT

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EL JALISCO $$ Mexican. With two–for–one margaritas most nights of the week, where can you go wrong? And the food, named “Best Mexican/Latin American” in 2010, is great too. Endless chips and salsa complement any menu item; the chicken quesadillas and beef tamales will keep you coming back for more. Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 2022 N. Monroe St. (850) 878-0800. 2915-301 Kerry Forest Pkwy.

Hopkins’ Eatery $ American. Sandwiches, salads, delicious sweets and more. Once again voted the best place to have lunch by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine in 2010. 1660 N. Monroe St. and 1415 Market St. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat. (850) 386-4258, (850) 668-0311.

Jonah’s Fish & Grits $$ American Southern. This Thomasville, Ga. restaurant serves good food made fresh daily in an alcohol-free, family friendly atmosphere. Soups, salads, pastas and specialty sandwiches focused on fish and seafood with a Southern twist are featured at lunch and dinner. Dinner also includes a more extensive selection from their wood-burning grill including their signature Gingersnap Salmon. Made-from-scratch Hush Puppies are a house specialty. Kids and low-fat menus are available. 109 East Jackson St. Lunch 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. Mon.–Fri. Dinner 5–9 p.m. Mon-Fri. Open Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. (229) 226-0508 Kiku $$ Japanese Fusion. With a wide selection of sushi rolls and traditional Japanese dishes, Kiku caters to a variety of tastes. 3491 Thomasville Road Suite 12. Open Mon.– Thurs. 11–2:30pm, 4:30–10 p.m., Fri. 11–2:30 p.m., 4:30–10:30 p.m., Sat. 12-10:30 p.m. and Sun. 12–10.

(850) 222-5458.

Kool Beanz $$/$$$ Fusion. As winner of Tallahassee Magazine’s 2010 “Best Locally Owned” restaurant, this colorful and casual spot has been serving up gourmet dishes

since 1996. Diners can expect delicious modern American cuisine, as well as dishes influenced by the worldwide travels of the kitchen staff. Menus change daily so guests can expect something new with each visit. 921 Thomasville Road. Lunch Mon.– Fri. 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner Mon.–Sat. 5:30–10 p.m.

(850) 224-2466.

LUNA’S ITALIAN FOOD $ Italian-American. Gourmet deli sandwiches and pasta dishes to take home. Large selection of imported wine, cheeses, sauces and Italian grocery items — plus Italian gelato. 1122 Thomasville Road. 10 a.m.– 7 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat. (850) 421-5862.

Masa $–$$ Asian Fusion. This sister restaurant to Lucy Ho’s serves up a creative menu with items such as Chilean Sea Bass Wraps with mango salsa, Tropical Fruit Sweet and Sour Chicken and Japanese tiramisu. Voted “Best Asian” and “Best Sushi” in by Tallahassee Magazine readers in 2010. Enjoy an extensive selection of wine, beer and sake in a casual dining setting. 1001 N. Monroe St. 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Mon.–Sat., Noon–10 p.m. Sunday. (850) 847-0003.

The Melting Pot $$$ Fondue. This restaurant offers a variety of fondues including cheese and chocolate dessert. The Melting Pot earned two “Best of” awards in 2010, for “Best Romantic” and “Best Celebration/Special Occasion” restaurant. 2727 N. Monroe St. 5–11 p.m. Sun.–Thu., 5 p.m.–midnight Fri.–Sat. (850) 386-7440.

Old Town Café $$ American. Southern hospitality is embedded throughout this family-owned restaurant. Mom’s meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans makes you feel like you’re home, not to mention their world famous prime rib, which slowly roasts all day. Timberlane Road. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon. Thurs., 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. Fri. and 4-10 p.m. Sat. (850) 893-5741

come

eat

enjoy

Osaka Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar $$$ Japanese. Known for its sushi, but also serves a variety of dishes including chicken, steak and seafood.

1690 Raymond Diehl Road. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (850) 531-0222. Private parties.

Po’ Boys Creole Café $ Creole. Specializes in Po’Boy sandwiches, jambalaya and gumbo and named 2010 “Best Cajun” restaurant by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine. 224 E. College Ave. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

Fri.–Sat., 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun. (850) 224-5400 and 1944 W. Pensacola St. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun. (850) 574-4144. 1425 Village Square Blvd. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.– 10 p.m. Sun. (850) 906-0020. Catering available.

Sakura $$$ Japanese. Sleek interior design mixed with amazing dishes equals a spectacular meal experience. This new and exciting Japanese cuisine rewards not only your taste buds but also your eyes with its beautifully prepared dishes of sushi and other traditional Japanese fare. 1318 N. Monroe St. Lunch 11:30 a.m.– 3 p.m. Mon.–Sat. Dinner 5–10 p.m. Mon.–Thurs., 5–11 p.m. Fri.–Sat., 4:30–10 p.m. Sun. (850) 222-9991.

a modern dining experience

2010

847.0003 | 1001 N. Monroe St.

Best Asian Restaurant/Sushi

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food bites

If the perennial question is, “Where are we going for lunch today?” here are some tasty answers:

luNch | Voodoo dog

luNch | avenue eat & drink

luNch | essence of india

luNch | crispers

For one price, you have your choice of 19 different lunch specials every day that includes salad, soup, onion chutney, dessert and naan — the light and fluffy traditional Indian bread — in addition to your entrée. May we suggest the Dal Makhani? Lentils are simmered with butter, garlic, ginger and tomatoes into a tasty vegetarian stew served over rice that’s been infused with exotic flavors. $7.99

the wiNe loFt wiNe Bar $$ american. Enjoy delicious items off the small plate menu and a vast selection of wines in a chic, sophisticated atmosphere downstairs or on the balcony overlooking Midtown. The Wine Loft boasts a generous array of more than 50 wines by the

Avenue Eat & Drink in downtown Tallahassee has transformed the traditional potpie into a delectable dish that blends fusion with Mom’s home cooking. Nestled under an amazing cornbread soufflé crust is a creamy mix of roasted chicken, peas and carrots. It’s baked and served in an edgy white bowl, with a spoon to enjoy mouthfuls of tasty comfort. $11 Ever have one of those days when everything on the menu looks good and you’d really like to have a little of everything? No need to decide.

Crispers solves the dilemma with its lunchtime Trios. Mix and match from baked potatoes, lettuce cups, side salads, soups and little minisammis called Small Bites. You get to pick three for $7.99.

glass and more than 70 by the bottle that earned it “Best Wine List” honors in 2010. The Wine Loft has two full liquor bars and Tallahassee’s only balcony bar. 1240 Thomasville Road. Open 5 p.m. Mon– Thu., 4 p.m.–2 a.m. Fri. and Sat. (850) 222-9914. thewinelofttallahassee.net

Southern Cuisine

with fresh, made from scratch entrées,vegetables and desserts.

A Tallahassee tradition since 1985 Full Service Catering 3196 Merchants Row Blvd. Ste. 110 • 692-3491 • 692-3492 (SouthWood Town Center) Breakfast & Lunch 7 am–3 pm Mon–Fri Saturday and Sunday 8 am–1 pm (Breakfast only) 1812 S. Monroe st. • 224-7090 • (located inside Henry’s Meats) Breakfast & Lunch 6:30 am–2 pm Mon–Fri Saturday 7 am–noon • Sunday Closed 176

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VooDoo Dog’s PB&B Burger

Family FiVe GuyS BurGerS & FrieS $ Burgers. A newcomer to the local dining scene, Five Guys was a quick hit with the readers of Tallahassee Magazine, who named its burgers the best in 2010.

Serving up made-to-order burgers and hot dogs with your choice of Cajun or home-style fries, it’s no wonder this restaurant has customers coming back for more. 1872 Thomasville Road. Mon.–Sun. 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. (850) 597-7514 earley’S kitcheN $ american Southern. For 33 years, Earley’s has been dishing up “good ole Southern” country cooking for breakfast and lunch at its restaurant inside Henry’s Meats. A second location now open in SouthWood serves fried chicken, pork chops, made-from-scratch vegetables, desserts and more, as well as a few extra Savannah-style dishes like shrimp and grits.

The SouthWood restaurant also serves a Sunday brunch buffet. At the 1812 S. Monroe St. location: Mon.–Fri., 6:30 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sat. (breakfast only) 7 a.m.–noon. (850) 224-7090. The SouthWood location at 3196 Merchant’s Row Blvd.: Mon.–Sat. 7 a.m.– 3 p.m.; Sun. 7 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 692-3491. momo’S $ pizza. Boasting the largest pizza you’ll find in Tallahassee — and possibly the Southeast — Momos offers big flavor that’s gotten a “Best of” award in 2010. Fill yourself up with a slice for yourself or order a pie to share. Now with two locations: Sun.-Thurs.

11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 1410 Market St. (850) 412-0222 and 1416 W. Tennessee St. (850) 224-9808. red elephaNt piZZa aNd Grill $ american. Enjoy a fresh, fast and filling meal that will satisfy your taste buds and wallet. The casual atmosphere is perfect for social gatherings with friends and family. 2910 Kerry Forest Pkwy Suite C-3., Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. 1872 Thomasville Road Suite A., Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Fri. Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Kerry Forest (850) 668-7492. Midtown (850) 222-7492.

PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

The not-so-secret ingredient in this cool campus eatery’s PB&B Burger is a slathering of peanut butter on top of the meat patty. It gives an additional fillip of flavor to a classic bacon cheddar cheeseburger. The generously sized burger comes piled high with onion, lettuce and tomato and is accompanied by a side of freshcut fries. $9

Dining Guide Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q $ Barbecue. Enjoy Sonny’s “feel good” barbecue and special sauces. Voted “Best Barbecue” in 2010.

3101 Dick Wilson Blvd., 2707 N. Monroe St. and 1460 Timberlane Road. All locations 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.Sat. Dick Wilson Blvd.

(850) 878-1185, N. Monroe St. (850) 385-2167, Timberlane Road. (850) 906-9996. Catering available.

Wing Stop $ Wings. Declaring themselves the “wing experts,” Wing Stop offers freshly made wings sauced and tossed in a choice of nine flavors. Savor something sweet with the Hawaiian sauce or something zesty with the Hickory Smoked BBQ. 1964 W. Tennessee Street, 3111 Mahan Drive, 6668 Thomasville Rd., All locations 11 a.m.– midnight Tennessee St. (850) 574-9464, Mahan Dr. (850) 942-9464, Thomasville Road (850) 219-9464.

VILLAGE PIZZA AND PASTA $$ Pizza/Pasta. Made-from-scratch New York-style pizza is a favorite at this casual Italian spot, but its mouthwatering pastas with secret marina sauce are close behind. One of its most popular choices, the Village Special, includes enough fresh toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, broccoli and mozzarella, to satisfy any pizza lover. Not to mention homemade garlic rolls. 1400-33 Village Square Boulevard. 11 a.m.– 6 p.m. Mon.–Sun. For catering call (850) 893-9001.

Steak/seafood BONEFISH GRILL $$$ Steak/Seafood. Although a chain, Bonefish works hard to make each restaurant—and each meal— unique with an array of seafood and sauces that can be mixed and matched to diners’ tastes. The restaurant earned 2010 “Best of Tallahassee” honors for its appetizers (Can you say Bang Bang Shrimp?) and the star of its menu, seafood. Mon.–Thurs. 4–10:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 4–11:30 p.m., Sun. 4–10 p.m. 3491 Thomasville Rd. (850) 297-0460.

Exquisite Table Service French~Mediterranean Cuisine Private Dining Room & Catering Reservations Available Rated 5 Hats

Mon~Sat, 5:30~9:30pm ~ Sun, 5~9pm ~ Lunch: Mon~Fri, 11:30am~2:00pm

1415 Timberlane Rd. ~ (850) 329-6870 ~ www.AProvence.com

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grill $$ Cajun. A New Orleans dining experience you won’t soon forget! Delicious Creole cuisine, fresh seafood and steaks, rich pastas, sensational salads and more.

“Great Food, Great Service; Good Value, Good Times.”

301 S. Bronough St. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Thu.–Sun., 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri.–Sat. (850) 222-3976.

Marie Livingston’s Steakhouse $$$ Steak. This restaurant specializes in steak — named Tallahassee’s “Best Steakhouse” in 2010 — but also serves seafood such as shrimp and fish. Marie Livingston’s has moved to a new location with a sophisticated decor, but the quality and value remain the same. 2705 Apalachee Parkway. Lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Mon.–Fri. Dinner 5 p.m. daily (850) 562-2525.

Shula’s 347 $$$ Steak. The legendary Miami Dolphins’ head coach brings his philosophy for winning football games — the quest for perfection — to the dining table at his namesake restaurant, located in the newly refurbished Hotel Duval. Keep it light and casual with Premium Black Angus Beef burgers or a gourmet salad or opt for one of their signature entrées — “Shula Cut” filet, New York strip or Cowboy steaks. Reservations are suggested. Sun.,–Thurs., 5–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5–11 p.m. 415 N. Monroe St. (850) 224-6005 n TALLAHASSEE

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The Last Word

40 yeArs lAter, reunIon re-IntegrAtIon They Thought They Had the Race Thing Figured Out, But Discovered It Wasn’t All Black and White By Florence Snyder

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Before Pictures The author and her fellow members of Miami Carol City High’s Student Council are shown in these yearbook photos when they thought they had resolved the integration problem. Later, black and white students would go separate ways during class reunions.

“How did this happen?” a lot of us, including the reunions’ organizers, wondered.

We vowed to wrestle it to the ground, to fix whatever needed fixing, before the next reunion. But we were 28 years old, and our people skills were still in development.

In high school, relationships were a fulltime job. At 28 — and 38, and 48 — we were all overloaded, struggling to pay our bills, stay married, raise our kids and spend final, precious hours with dying parents.

But in the summer of 2010, we found ourselves traveling lighter. For many of us who didn’t “die before [we] got old,” the parents are gone, the kids are grown, and we’ve figured out we’re not going to live forever.

We’ve learned to laugh at ourselves. As Bruce Springsteen explained in “Glory Days,” the divorces, the weight gains, the careers that didn’t quite take off aren’t

nearly so painful when shared with the people you knew “back in high school.”

Again, there were two reunions. But this time, we made time to connect with our 14-year-old selves, the boys and girls who walked though Carol City’s doors for the first time in 1967. We went to each other’s picnics and mixers and banquets and breakfasts. We sang the alma mater and danced the Electric Slide.

In the years after graduation, we learned, as every generation must, that people are fragile and hearts are easily broken. We learned, too, the power of a simple, “I’m sorry. I wish we’d had this conversation years ago.”

Our school colors are orange, black and white. But for purposes of partying, we promised one another, from now on we’re all just orange. n

photos Courtesy FlorenCe snyder

t’s summer — and time for all those round-number high school reunions.

At the 10-year reunion, it’s all about hooking up with the hunks and honeys who didn’t know you were alive in high school.

At the 20, it’s about pretending to be happier and more successful than you actually are.

Forty years after the Class of ’70 walked a street called The Warpath for the last time as seniors at Miami Carol City High, we had a different agenda. Last summer, it was all about truth and reconciliation.

When Carol City opened as Dade County’s first integrated high school, the “white” and “colored” signs over the drinking fountains at the Food Fair on 183rd Street were gone, but hardly forgotten. At the “Home of the Chiefs,” facilities and faculty were second to none, yet some parents finagled their children into schools where they would not have to learn to walk a mile — or play football, or work on the school newspaper — in someone else’s moccasins.

For most of us, Carol City was our first time outside our racial comfort zones. We had to do our own diversity training, and to hear us tell it in 1970, we were the walking, talking embodiment of Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream.

We cheered as one as our integrated basketball team rolled to the runner-up spot at the state basketball tournament our senior year. Our integrated marching band stole the show at Miami Dolphins’ halftimes and Orange Bowl parades. We navigated the politics of home rooms and homecoming courts as friends.

We thought we had the race thing all figured out.

But many dreams die in that first decade after high school, and in 1980, Carol City’s class of ’70 found itself with two class reunions, divided along racial lines.