Tallahassee Magazine • July/August 2023

NEW TECHNOLOGY AIDS

COPS PROBING COLD CASES

FOR THE MAE WEST BAND, THE MUSIC WILL NOT DIE

COLD-BREWED COFFEE HAS ITS MOMENT IN THE SUN

OYSTER CHRONICLES

Filmmakers document the passing of an era

Celebrating 75 years of homemade birthday cakes, fancy party hats and, of course, trick candles.

No matter your age, on your birthday, you get to do what you want – it’s a day to splurge! Sleep late? Stay in your PJs all day? Another piece of cake? Yes please! It’s life at its best. After serving our community for 75 years, we like to think we’re part of the fun – helping keep our community stronger, happier and healthier. That’s our job. And not for one second do we take our responsibilities for granted. So you keep living, and we’ll keep looking out for you. From all of us at TMH and our partners, thank you for your continued trust in us. Here’s to another 75 years.

Walter E. Colón, DMD, MS . Aixa Guzmán, DMD . Jake Zellner, DMD, MS

FEATURES

60 COLD CASE UNIT

Retired detectives are working to digitize the Tallahassee Police Department’s paper cold case files in hopes of connecting the dots on long unsolved cases. Active TPD officers may pick up cold cases when schedules allow, but the department has no unit dedicated to such work. Some detectives have employed new and improved technologies in successfully solving decades-old cases, but the challenge is never easy. Evidence vanishes, memories fade, and witnesses disappear or die.

by EMMA WITMER

6 4 SOLVED

Tallahassee Police Department detective Brittany Able has cracked the case in a 27-year-old murder. The body of James Edwin Branner was discovered at the Prince Murat Hotel in July 1996, and despite an abundance of physical evidence, police never identified a viable suspect. Thanks to contemporary genealogical databases, however, DNA found at the scene finally yielded a lead in 2020. After more than a year of investigation, Able placed a suspect living near Jacksonville under arrest.

by EMMA WITMER

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

98 GREEN SCENE

Protect your home and garden — discourage squirrels, get rid of toxic caterpillars and remove tree limbs not likely to survive storms.

323

21 PERSONALITY

Underwater archeologist and FSU assistant professor Jessi Halligan unravels the history of early Native American cultures with discoveries that upend conclusions that were drawn by other researchers.

30 NOTABLES For a second year, LeMoyne Arts will host a Women

Among Us: Portraits of Strength storytelling photography exhibit as a way to honor and recognize the unsung accomplishments of women age 65 and older.

PANACHE

35 CITIZEN OF STYLE

Kim McFarland, principal of Roberts Elementary School, favors versatile clothing that is suited both to parent-teacher meetings and her work with children.

40 FASHION Perfect for a beach day, a work day or trip to the grocery store, tote bags never go out of style.

44 WHAT’S IN STORE

Retailers are offering iris blue kitchenware, colorful boho jumpsuits and candles that bring nature indoors.

GASTRO & GUSTO

52 DINING OUT Whether a simple outing with friends, a romantic date night or full-blown party, picnics can be as casual or fanciful as the occasion demands.

58 TRENDS Cold brew is an easy, at-home alternative to hot coffee. Lucky Goat is capitalizing on the trend with custom grinds.

EXPRESSION

69 MUSIC For 10 years, the Mae West Band has redefined what it means to be a cover band with an unyielding commitment to professionalism.

74 FILM A new documentary explores the causes of the collapse of Apalachicola Bay’s oyster fishery. Freshwater flows, environmental degradation and overharvesting all played a role.

82 BOOKS Avid birder

James Huffstodt devoted 24 years to

IN

writing a biography of one of his heroes, the pioneering ornithologist and founder of the Christmas bird count, Frank Chapman.

ABODES

89 EXTERIORS Adding native species to your yard is a simple and beautiful way to support pollinators like bees, butterflies and birds. Getting started is simple.

92 INTERIORS Interior designers and savvy homeowners are finding that vintage furniture is a stylish and

14

126 DINING GUIDE

LIBATIONS

Summer cocktails stirred up by the area’s leading mixologists are fruity, floral, spicy and sometimes smokey. And nothing says traditional recipes can’t be made better.

ON THE COVER:

Richard Bickel has traveled the world as an international photojournalist, but for 30 years he has made the small coastal community of Apalachicola his base of operations. With photos like the one of the tongers on our cover, he has documented Franklin County’s oyster culture and a way of life shut down by a moratorium on the harvesting of wild oysters necessitated by depleted stocks.

Photo by Richard Bickel

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

MCKENZIE BURLEIGH

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Steve Bornhoft

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Emma Witmer

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Raemi Creteur

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paige Aigret, Marina Brown, Les Harrison, Bob Jones, Lis King, Rebecca Padgett Frett

CREATIVE

VICE PRESIDENT / PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut

SENIOR PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Sarah Burger, Saige Roberts, Scott Schiller, Shruti Shah GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sierra Thomas

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Allen Adams Photography, Sue Ault, Dave Barfield, Baum Road Studios, Betsy Barfield Photography, Richard Bickel, Michael Booini, Steve Bornhoft, Adam Burke, Kendall Cooper, Jennifer Ekrut, Daniel Fisher, Chas Galloway, Eliza Hawkins, Powell K. Kreis, Kacey Lanier, Ryals Lee, Rick Limpert, Erich Martin, Monica Terrero Photography, Ross Obley, Bob O’Lary, Alicia Osborne, Christen Perry, Becki Rutta, Charlene Trickey, The Workmans, Lori Yeaton, Your Social

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS

SALES MANAGER, WESTERN DIVISION Rhonda Lynn Murray

SALES MANAGER, EASTERN DIVISION Lori Magee Yeaton

DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EASTERN DIVISION Daniel Parisi

DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, WESTERN DIVISION Dan Parker

ADVERTISING SERVICES SPECIALIST Tracy Mulligan

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Julie Dorr

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michelle Daugherty, Darla Harrison

MARKETING MANAGER Javis Ogden

SALES AND MARKETING WRITER Rebecca Padgett Frett

ADMINISTRATIVE & CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST Renee Johnson

OPERATIONS

CUSTOM PUBLISHING MANAGER Sara Goldfarb

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE/AD SERVICE COORDINATOR Sarah Coven

PRODUCTION EDITOR Paige Aigret

PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan

STAFF BOOKKEEPER Amber Dennard

DIGITAL SERVICES

DIGITAL EDITOR Alix Black

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Copyright July 2023 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.

2023 | TALLAHASSEE TENNIS CHALLENGER

PRESENTED BY: Visit Tallahassee

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and the TMH Foundation thank the donors, sponsors and volunteers who made possible the 2023 Tallahassee Tennis Challenger

benefiting the D. Mark Vogter MD Memorial Endowment for Neuro-Intensive Care at TMH

Grand Slam Sponsors

USTA Pro Circuit • The Vogter Family • Florida Lottery

Wimbledon “Skybox” Sponsor

Mark Webb/Merrill Lynch

French Open Sponsors

Graganella Insurance Agency

• Tallahassee Neurological Clinic • Brence A. Sell, MD

Australian Open Sponsors

Eliot & Heidi Sieloff • Eric & Lori Willyoung • Sniffen & Spellman, PA

• Hopewell In-Home Senior Care

Periodontal Associates of North Florida/Walter Colón, DMD • Eye Associates of Tallahassee, PA

Tallahassee Gastro Health Center/Kishor Muniyappa, MD

• Maya, Patrick, Kristine & Farhat Khairallah MD

US Open Sponsors

Brenda & David Huang

• Maria & Mark Yealdhall

Katrina & Chris Wilhoit

Ken & Becky McAlpine

Anna Jones, RDN

• Kathy & Jim Dahl

• Ed & Carol Moore

• Jenny & Michael Crowley

• Jamie & Joe Lenda

• In Tents Events

• Big Top Manufacturing

• Lanigan & Associates/Tom & Holly Harrison

• Sandeep & Anamika Rahangdale/PCAIMA

Carol & Ed Herndon

• MLD Architects

• Carolyn & Rich Henry • Pennington, P.A.

Anne Davis & Barbara Davidson

Katie Brennan & Claude Hendon

Armin Friedli, MD, MLB, PLLC

• Nancy & Bob Crawford

• Synovus

• Childers Construction

• Alice Abbitt & Ralph Zimmerman

• Capital Periodontal/Dr. William Baldock • Ashley Pyrotechnics

• MAD DOG Construction

• Mary Warner, Stylist

Barbara S. Withers, CPA/Bryant Withers Hospitality Services

Rob Contreras & Ellen Berler

• Truist Wealth

• Geosyntec Consultants

• Mariela Bartens/Coldwell Banker Hartung

Growler Country Craft Beer & Eatery

NorthPointe

Tallahassee Tennis Association

Alex Meng & Yi Zhu

• Allegiance Crane & Equipment

• Premier Surface Solutions

• North Florida Orthopaedics

• Chris & Susanne Dudley

• Dermatology Associates

Challenger Sponsors

• Debra & George English

• Sandra Stovall

• Ray & Jann Bellamy • Angela & Jim McCloy

• Dr. & Mrs. J.A. Giralt

Debbie Hall/John Costigan

Libby & Sid Bigham

• Jake Varn

Kathy & Richard Zorn

• Sue Ault/AMGEN

• Bryan & Junko Stout

Futures Sponsors

• Chris Thomson

• Judy & Dennis Egan

• Mark Horner

• Joan Macmillan

• The Brown Family

• Tom & Farra

• Mary Alice & Michael Linzy

Noel

• Kathy Maus

This event is held in partnership with the TMH Foundation and the City of Tallahassee Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Affairs.

FOR WANT OF A NAIL

Happy coincidence strengthens powerful documentary

It’s true. Sometimes, the stars line up.

I received a call from Chucha Barber, who served as the executive director of the Mary Brogan Museum of Art and Science in Downtown Tallahassee for 14 years. Her efforts in that role yielded cultural and learning experiences for children and adults that were new and elevated.

Chucha was in the waiting room of a tire store — she had picked up a nail in her travels — when she flipped through a copy of Tallahassee Magazine and read a column I had written about my association with the Guy Harvey Foundation. I have been pleased to participate in and promote billfishing expeditions to Central America that the foundation conducts to raise funds for marine research and education.

When she called me, Chucha was in the final stages of producing Unfiltered, The Truth About Oysters, a documentary film that focuses on Apalachicola Bay as an example of the decimation of oyster populations across the globe. She has been making documentaries for 30 years, the first of which was inspired by a dinosaur exhibit she saw while working at a science museum in Miami.

Chucha called me to see if I could interest Dr. Harvey in taking part in the film, given his prominence in the fields of marine science and conservation. After seeing a rough cut, he agreed to lend his expertise to the production. A film crew rushed

to Fort Lauderdale to capture his comments about the critical role played by filter-feeding, waterclarifying oysters in marine environments the world over.

Chucha also succeeded in enlisting participation from international photojournalist Richard Bickel of Apalachicola, whose stirring black-and-white images of seafood harvesters, processors and their families and environs were collected in a book, The Last Great Bay: Images of Apalachicola. Bickel made available to Chucha more than 30 photographs, some of them from the book, that appear at the start of the documentary and effectively set the tone for the film.

Bickel moved to Apalachicola 30 years ago, and his own work of telling the story of people who live there continues to this day. As a consultant on Unfiltered, he introduced Chucha to typically reticent members of the oystering community.

Bickel’s work is on display at his gallery at 81 Market St. in Apalachicola and is best admired in person. You can check it out, too, at richardbickelphotography.com.

As powerful as it is, Unfiltered has the potential to win a bunch of awards while fostering appreciation for the sensitivity and value of marine environments and affecting change. The film is doing well, having been accepted by several film festivals statewide, including this year’s Tallahassee Film Festival, which will

take place Sept. 2–3 at venues to be announced in the Gaines Street/ Railroad Square district. Go see the film if you get the chance.

I am grateful to have been in a position to support Unfiltered and its aims. The inclusion of Dr. Guy Harvey in the film began in a tire store waiting room and is a testament to the power of Tallahassee Magazine to make connections.

Take care,

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EMERGING COOPERATION

Hospital project comes as a nod to Tallahassee

It is not often that I pass by the surgery center at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare that bears his name without thinking about the legacy of M.T. Mustian and my encounters with him.

For 25 years, Mustian served TMH as its administrator, exhibiting throughout that quarter-century a restrained and respectful leadership style. He was never loud, never flamboyant, never given to self-promotion or burnishing his own credentials. He was always willing to listen, actively and sincerely, and knew to get out of the way of doctors and other medical professionals, trusting them to do their jobs conscientiously and well.

And, he was firm when he needed to be.

I got to know “Mr. Mustian,” as most everyone called him, when he served as chairman of a customer advisory board for a regional community bank that had branch offices in Tallahassee. I was the bank’s marketing guy and its representative to that board. Even at that level, M.T. was consistently wellprepared, gracious and accommodating. He hosted customer appreciation events at his home on Velda Dairy Road.

Given Mustian’s chairmanship of the advisory board, membership thereon was a far more prestigious station than it otherwise would have been. M.T. stayed close to the community.

One morning, seated on his porch overlooking his expansive garden, he and I sipped iced tea. He was the son of an itinerant Texas farmer and could grow more than hospitals. I asked M.T., who would live to be 96, what the key to his longevity was.

“Ninety percent genetics,” he said, modest to a fault.

M.T. would be proud to see the progress that TMH has made in the

years since he retired. And he would be especially delighted by TMH’s inclusion as a partner, along with the FSU College of Medicine and The St. Joe Company, in the development of a medical office building and full-service teaching hospital in Panama City Beach.

M.T. had ties to Bay County, having served as CEO at Bay Medical Center (BMC) in Panama City for four years before making his way to Gainesville and then to Tallahassee in 1964. BMC is today known as Ascension Sacred Heart Bay, a phrase that speaks to consolidation in the health care industry as well as any could. M.T. would later return to Bay County as a consultant to BMC’s board of directors at a point when the hospital was seeking support for a local-option sales tax to fund future building projects.

That tax was approved by voters and later undone. Hoped-for projects never happened.

Now, an impressive medical campus is under construction in western Bay County, a rapidly growing area that has been without a hospital to this point. Four years of planning preceded the groundbreaking for the campus held earlier this year. St. Joe deliberated carefully before settling on TMH as its preferred health care provider for the project.

A key determinant of TMH’s selection was its willingness to allow for local governance of the new hospital, something that was of utmost importance to Jorge Gonzalez, St. Joe’s president and CEO. Other health care giants, headquartered in Nashville and St. Louis, were unwilling to accept a local board.

So it was that the consideration came down to something that M.T. encouraged and that current TMH president and CEO Mark O’Bryant values — close community ties.

And so it is that TMH’s selection comes not just as a nod to Mr. Mustian or Mr. O’Bryant. It comes, too, as an appreciation for TMH as a true regional player in health care, for all who support the hospital, for the visionaries who brought about the FSU College of Medicine and for all who have contributed to making FSU a leading university nationwide. It comes as a nod to Tallahassee from a region that historically has demonstrated a reluctance to align itself with the Capital City. Of this new and emerging cooperation, good things will come.

Be well,

STEVE BORNHOFT, EXECUTIVE EDITOR sbornhoft@rowlandpublishing.com

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOOINI / RPI FILE PHOTO

TALLAHASSEEMAGAZINE.COM

RECAP Tally Top Pet

When your nickname is “Big Sexy,” you have a lot to live up to, even more so when you have triumphed as the winner of the Tally Top Pet competition. Gunner, aka “Big Sexy,” and his owner Ashley Hand were the honored guests at the 2023 Tally Top Pet check presentation ceremony, held at presenting sponsor North Florida Animal Hospital’s offices on May 12. The event came as the culmination of another fantastic Tally Top Pet fundraising campaign.

Read a full recap by visiting TallahasseeMagazine.com/ 2023-tally-top-pet-check-presentation.

REWIND GADSDEN ARTS IS A 2023 BLUE STAR MUSEUM

The Gadsden Arts Center & Museum is joining the Blue Star Museums initiative, a program that will provide free admission to active duty U.S. military personnel and their families this summer. Gadsden Arts also will be offering an ART-venture to the Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville, where more than 13,000 works are on display. Learn more at TallahasseeMagazine.com/ gadsden-arts-is-a-2023-blue-star-museum.

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

Many of you enjoyed our annual pets edition, and we would love to spotlight the animals you hold dear. Celebrate your furry, scaly or feathered friend by posting a snapshot on Instagram. Tag us @tallahasseemag #tallydogdays, and you may see your photo on our website and shared on our social channels!

CLEAR CONNECT MEDICAL IMAGING CENTER CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING

In May, the Clear Connect Medical Imaging Center at HCA Florida Capital Hospital celebrated with a grand opening event and ribbon cutting. Plans for the $13.5 million, 10,000-square-foot outpatient imaging and breast center were announced last year. Chris Mosley, CEO at HCA Florida Capital Hospital, was on hand to deliver remarks at the grand opening. Learn more at TallahasseeMagazine.com/ clear-connect-medical-imaging-centergrand-opening.

BEST OF TALLAHASSEE TICKET SALES

Tickets are on sale now for the Best day of the year! Join us as we celebrate the businesses that were voted the best in Tallahassee by you, our readers! Enjoy an evening of entertainment, heavy hors d’oeuvres and more as we honor the businesses that make Tallahassee a great place to live. For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit TallahasseeMagazine.com/best-of-tallahassee.

Name one of our brand-new stadium seats at the softball, baseball, or basketball complex

PERSONALITY of Bones Contention

Underwater archaeologist unravels early cultures ↓

by EMMA WITMER

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

NOTABLES Redefining Aging with Grace

PASSIONS AND PERSONALITIES

↖

FSU anthropology professor and underwater archaeologist Jessi Halligan took a break at the surface while doing underwater field work in May at the Aucilla River Basin. Her work there was scheduled to continue through June.

Abroken knife tip might seem to be an insignificant find for a seasoned archeologist like Dr. Jessi Halligan. Such fragments are easily found by anyone who knows to look for them in the Aucilla River basin.

But in addition to an object, itself, the context in which it is found is important. Halligan found a particular knife tip amid a pile of matter that had been digested by a mastodon more than 1,000 years before humans were believed to have inhabited the area.

The archeological community is still shaking its head.

Halligan is an assistant professor of anthropology at Florida State University. She specializes

in underwater archaeology, but unlike most of her peers, she is not particularly interested in shipwrecks. She focuses instead on submerged landscapes in her efforts to better understand the lives of the first peoples to populate North America.

When Jessi Halligan speaks about the geologic past, she vividly describes an unfamiliar world where land masses were much larger than they are today and grassy plains existed where forests now stand. There, mastodons, mammoths, bison, wolves and hunter-gatherers hung out at pools created by springs and left behind bones and broken tools that today are accessible only by divers.

As a child, Halligan was fascinated by Howard Carter’s

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

↖ FSU undergraduate student Charlie Azzarito, standing, stages gear at a field headquarters at the PageLadson site on the Aucilla River. Discoveries made there have led the scientific community to rethink early human timelines.

↙

Dr. Jessi Halligan makes a log book entry after divers enter the water.

EVERY FOSSIL HAS A STORY TO OFFER

The Page-Ladson site, located about 45 minutes from Tallahassee on the Aucilla River, is the oldest known site of human life in the Southeast. Using radiocarbon dating techniques, researchers have determined that artifacts at the site are about 14,550 years old.

↙

FSU graduate student Ximena Smith assists diver Chloé Stevens, who holds a master’s degree from FSU, while Jessi Halligan communicates with a support crew on shore.

1 Vertebra of a subadult mastodon in foreground; other bones of same specimen in background.

2

Closeup of the vertebra seen in No. 1 photo.

3

Rib in foreground; left radius from same specimen in background.

4

Close-up view of radius in No. 3 photo. 5

Tight shot of mandible (jaw) from a camelid, possibly Paleolama.

discovery of Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb. She later volunteered to help with archeological digs in her home state of South Dakota. She saw an ocean for the first time when she flew into Boston to begin her undergraduate anthropology studies. At Harvard University, she divided her time among her classwork, rugby practice and dig sites, including some that figured in a field study at Martha’s Vineyard.

“It just kept percolating in the back of my brain about how much our studies of people in the past are impacted by where the land is, where the water is and where the water has destroyed the land,” Halligan said.

After five years spent working in cultural resource management, Halligan went to graduate school at Texas A&M University. Drawn to its springconnected river systems and the history of finds in the region, she chose the Aucilla River area to be the subject of her thesis. She worked to determine whether artifacts found at the bottom

of the Aucilla had been moved along by rains and rivers or remained near the spots where they were discarded thousands of years ago.

For the most part, she found the latter to be true.

In 2012, Halligan published her dissertation and received permission to pursue further investigation into the controversial Page-Ladson site further down the Aucilla River. More than a decade before, divers’ stories of spear points attracted the attention of researchers from the University of Florida and the Bureau of Archeological Research in Tallahassee.

“They spent the next 10 years excavating there, and they found in this layer they called Stratum 3 a mixture of sand and what turned out to be mastodon digesta — essentially mastodon poop — that dated to more than 14,400 years old,” Halligan explained. “They found a mastodon tusk that had cut marks on it in a place that would have been inside the mastodon skull.”

To paleontologist David Webb and archeologist James Dunbar, this was clear evidence that humans were present in the area prior to the earliest known settlers, the Clovis culture, which dates to approximately 13,000 years ago.

“It was really exciting, but a lot of researchers politely ignored this site because they would say, ‘Well, you’re in the bottom of a dark river. How sure are you that this stuff is real?’” Halligan said.

The marks on the tusk might have been caused by something other than a knife. There was not sufficient evidence to rewrite history. Not yet.

Halligan went to the site along with Dunbar and one of her professors in hopes of resolving the matter. During their first year of excavation, they found nothing. Then, among mastodon tusks and bones from a camel-like creature, the palaeolama, she discovered a knife point.

“Over the last several years, we found several more artifacts in that sand and elephant poop layer — about 15 altogether — and all of them are

← FSU undergraduate anthropology student Katherine Moore prepares to enter the water while Jessi Halligan dons a wetsuit and speaks with graduate student Alec Potter. Terrence Mosley, at rear of photo, recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology/geology. ↑ Halligan, ready to make a dive at the Page-Ladson site, awaits the arrival of a dive buddy.

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

clustered where the bones are. We are not finding any where the bones aren’t,” Halligan said.

Last summer, Halligan returned to Page-Ladson hoping to learn more about the humans who lived there at the end of the last ice age. During an excavation, she made a groundbreaking discovery — two projectile points, one of the Bolen style, the other of the Suwannee style. Both are common in the region, but archeologists had never been able to accurately date them because no carbon-based materials had been found with them. Halligan discovered her points on what appeared to be an ancient hearth filled with carbon-rich charcoal.

“We thought there was like 1,000 years between them (the Bolen and Suwanee cultural phases), but the points were on opposite sides of the same hearth, so are they the same age?” Halligan said. “We don’t know. We’ll see what the radiocarbon dating tells us.” TM

↑ Clockwise from top left: Morgan Smith and Michael R. Waters examine a biface, a prehistoric stone implement that is flaked on both sides, after its discovery by Smith and his dive buddy, John Albertson; Jessi Halligan, Cindy Fisher and Florida Museum of Natural History researcher Jason Bourque display a mastodon tusk uncovered at the Page-Ladson site and containing marks believed to have been made by humans; Halligan holds a spear tip that she recovered while doing underwater field work in the Aucilla River basin during the summer of 2022.

TUSK, TOP RIGHT), KENDALL COOPER (BOTTOM) AND ADAM BURKE

AMERICANS (SMITH & WATERS, TOP LEFT)

TMH Patient Reunites with Team That Saved His Life

Clifford Daugherty is Back on the Golf Course after Cardiac Arrest

by Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare

Sunday, March 6, 2022, was shaping up to be a great day on the golf course in Madison County for Clifford Daugherty.

Clifford, 73, and his wife Kathy are snowbirds from Iowa. They spend part of their year in North Florida, living in their RV, enjoying the sunshine and golfing.

“I was told that Cliff had hit his best shot ever that day,” Kathy said. “His drive had gone the farthest it had ever gone.”

What looked like a phenomenal day of golf quickly changed for Clifford. He proceeded to hit three balls right into the water, and then he collapsed. Kathy was at their RV when she was told she needed to get to the eighth hole at Madison Golf & Country Club as quickly as possible.

She began driving her golf cart, frantically looking for her husband. She saw the ninth hole but couldn’t seem to find the eighth quick enough. She finally made it to Clifford and saw that he was in serious trouble.

Someone on the golf course immediately called 911, and when Madison County Emergency Services showed up, they began CPR. They rushed Clifford to Madison County Memorial Hospital, where the doctors realized he needed more advanced heart care and put him on a Survival Flight to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH)

Clifford had experienced cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart malfunctions and abruptly stops beating. More than 357,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur each year in the United States, and nearly 90 percent of them are fatal, according to the American Heart Association.

Saving Clifford was a race against time.

While assessing Clifford, the heart team at TMH discovered his coronary artery had a tight blockage. The heart team had to insert a stent in his blocked vessel to open it and restore blood flow to the heart. Clifford would also undergo surgery to implant an Impella® heart pump.

The Impella® heart pump is a device that is temporarily placed into the ventricle of the heart for patients who are experiencing shock due to a heart attack.

The pump supports the patient’s weakened heart by allowing it to rest while keeping blood flowing to the rest of the body. Once the heart is pumping properly, without assistance from the pump, the device is removed.

Inserting the Impella® benefits the patient because doctors don’t have to open the heart to insert the device. Instead, a minor incision is made in the leg or chest artery to insert the device and move it up the artery until it reaches the heart. The procedure is minimally invasive, compared to open heart surgery, allowing patients to experience fewer complications and recover more quickly.

Clifford had his heart pump for a day while recovering at TMH. Once the pump is removed, the heart has a better chance to fully recover.

From the Survival Flight helicopter team, which is based at TMH, to the heart team that treated Clifford, an interdisciplinary team worked to coordinate his care and recovery.

“At TMH, we’re proud to be the leader in the southeast for heart care, offering our patients the most advanced and comprehensive care in the region,” said Andrew Starr, Vice President and Chief Health Operations Officer. “We offer our patients access to the most innovative treatment and technologies, like the Impella®, which in Mr. Clifford’s case, helped save his life.”

Although TMH’s heart team was a big part of Clifford’s journey to recovery, William Dixon, MD, Clifford’s cardiologist, said the responders who got to him first on the golf course and started administering CPR are the true lifesavers.

“The people that saved his life were the people on the golf course,” said Dixon, an interventional cardiologist at TMH and Southern Medical Group, who serves as Medical Director for TMH’s Chest Pain Center. “They saved his life, and they saved his brain, and that’s the most important because you can get the heart back, but you can’t always get the brain back.”

As snowbirds, Clifford and his wife Kathy didn’t have family in the area. They relied on TMH’s heart team for support and comfort until their five children arrived from Iowa.

“Dr. Dixon will always have a place in our hearts, and that’s no pun intended, for his patience and kindness during Cliff’s ongoing treatment,” Kathy said.

Clifford doesn’t remember much of his experience, but he is grateful for the heart team for providing lifesaving care and giving him an Impella® heart pump.

“I don’t remember anything; I don’t remember the week before much,” he said. “I don’t remember anything at the hospital. About the first thing I can recall is when we were driving away from the hospital. I don’t remember the check out. It’s gone.”

For the one-year anniversary of his cardiac arrest and recovery, Clifford reunited with some of the many

people that helped him, from the Madison County emergency medical professionals and the flight crew to the nurses and doctors at TMH.

“To come back and see everyone and know what happened is just overwhelming for me,” he said.

“You have no idea how it feels to be told you’re dying, and this crew brought me back. I can’t say thank you enough.”

Clifford was released after three weeks at TMH and was able to drive his RV back to Iowa and return to his five children and grandchildren. He is grateful for his life, grateful for the medical professionals who saved him and grateful to return to the life he enjoyed before his cardiac arrest.

“I have all of my faculties,” he said. “I remember everything — my kids’ phone numbers, and it’s like this didn’t happen a year ago.”

TMH performs more minimally invasive heart procedures than any other program in North Florida and South Georgia. To learn more about the advanced heart care offered at TMH, visit TMH.ORG/Heart.

To learn more about the advanced heart care offered at TMH, visit TMH.ORG/Heart.

photography by ALICIA OSBORNE

→ PROJECT PRINCIPALS

From left: Artist Linda Hall; graphic designer and marketer Lynne Knight; photographer Becki Rutta; poet Mary Jane Ryals; conservationist Eleanor Dietrich.

Redefining

AGING WITH GRACE

LeMoyne exhibit honors

by PAIGE AIGRET

Women are expected to age with grace, their contributions recognized only so long as their skin remains pert and hair never grays.

Conservationist Eleanor Dietrich and artist Linda Hall set these expectations aside. The close friends knew there to be more to women’s stories beyond youth. As Dietrich reached her 75th birthday, she asked a simple question: “What are women my age doing now?”

This question was the impetus for Women

Among Us: Portraits of Strength, a 2021 exhibit at LeMoyne Arts featuring black and white portraits of 17 Tallahassee women. The exhibit combined the talents of several like-minded women: photographer Becki Rutta, who captured each subject with attire and keepsakes that spoke to their identity; poet Mary Jane Ryals, who wrote biographies and haikus to accompany Rutta’s images; and graphic designer and marketing maven, Lynne Knight.

It was more than well received by the community. Now, the women are looking to recapture the magic.

“Not a lot of art exhibits get a lot of people, but this one in particular does,” Ryals said “Why? I’m not sure. Except maybe it’s just time for this, we’re hungry for it.”

senior women: Here they are and here’s what they did

The group’s second exhibit will be on display at LeMoyne from Thursday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Oct. 28, where 21 Tallahassee women aged 65-plus will be similarly featured in imposing 40-by-50-inch black and white portraits.

This year, Rutta opted for a change of backdrop scenery, moving from studio space into each woman’s home or workspace.

“Visually, in some ways, it’s going to be more complex,” Rutta said. “It adds another level to the image that I think is really going to draw the viewer in.”

The setting allowed for a relaxed experience, as the fivewoman dream team spent time communing with the subjects — there was coffee, snacking and laughing. It was a room of women creating art and forming relationships. Ryals used the conversational setting as the basis for her writing.

“It doesn’t feel like work sometimes,” Rutta said. “It’s just like making friends.”

“These are women who’ve never been the center of attention for much of anything, most of them,” Ryals said. “So, we’d try to make them feel comfortable.”

Ryals feels the project is important to share across generations, as the anxieties of aging impact women at all stages of life. The stigma around aging aligns the decline of beauty and health with aging, but these women prove otherwise. Instead, she believes aging with pride trumps aging with grace.

“We need to learn how to talk about ourselves without feeling like we’re bragging,” Ryals said. “That is one thing I think is happening. These women say, ‘Here I am, here’s what I’ve done.’”

A few among this year’s Women Among Us are: Marjorie Williams, an African American teacher who began her career amid segregation; Georgia Bowen, the longest-running school board member in Leon County who served for 22 years before retiring in 2022; Barbara Hamby, a professor of creative writing at Florida State University who has seven published collections of poetry; professional sitarist Nalini Vinayak; and Myra Hurt, a founding faculty member and the first acting dean of FSU’s College of Medicine.

“They don’t stop,” Ryals said. “They have done this stuff all their lives. (They are) focused and driven, and they care about other women.”

In the summer of 2024, the two exhibits will merge and be displayed at the Capitol building’s top-floor event space.

“I don’t think it’s going to be lost on anybody,” Rutta said, pausing for a laugh, “this traditionally masculine system having these incredible women stuck at the top. It will really bring it home. And who knows what can come of that, what kind of changes are out there that we can make.” TM

PHOTOS BY BECKI RUTTA / BECKIRUTTA.COM

Women Among Us: Portraits of Strength

LeMoyne Arts will host a display of portraits of Tallahassee senior women of merit and accomplishment from Sept. 28 through Oct. 28. It will be the second such exhibit at the center, assembled in an effort to celebrate the enchanting, important and often indispensable contributions made by women to the fabric of the community.

(Clockwise from top left)

Georgia “Joy” Bowen, the longest-running school board member in Leon County who served for 22 years before retiring in 2022

Barbara Hamby, a professor of creative writing at Florida State University who has seven published collections of poetry

Nalini Vinayak, professional sitarist

Norine Cardea, a philosopher and counselor who helps steer people toward their own ways to heal.

Myra Hurt, a founding faculty member and the first acting dean of FSU’s College of Medicine

Marjorie Williams, an African American teacher who began her career amid segregation

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to Wright & Associates for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2023 list, published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.

M. Felton Wright, CFP ®, CPWA®, CPFA® Managing Director

Wealth Management Advisor

850.599.8978

mfelton_wright@ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

1276 Metropolitan Boulevard

Suite 201

Tallahassee, FL 32312

fa.ml.com/wrightrobinson

Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list, published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022. Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of each team’s best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and team, and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch. com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S. CPWA® is a registered certification mark of the Investments & Wealth Institute®. For more information about the Institute and the CPWA certification, please visit investmentsandwealth.org. © 2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. MAP4960336 | AD-03-23-0065 | 472538PM-1022 | 03/2023

Kim

by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

For Kim McFarland, principal of Roberts Elementary School, the car line is her runway. While she wouldn’t claim the title of fashionista, she’s no stranger to parents rolling down their windows to compliment her outfits.

And her students get a kick out of her collection of colorful hightop Converse that she often pairs with pleated trousers and equally vibrant cardigans or blazers.

Comfort and function are of the utmost importance as her days transition from meetings with teachers and parents to the student plane, whether it’s leaning in for a hug, bending to talk through an issue or kneeling to help tie a shoe. But McFarland does enjoy the creativity putting an outfit together allows.

“I don’t like to wear the same outfit twice, so I try to figure

photography by ALICIA OSBORNE

←↘ Kim McFarland sports white wide leg jeans from Target; a Roberts Elementary spirit shirt; earrings from August & Ari Boutique; and classic nylon SP sneakers from Reebok.

“It’s the ideal job for me because it’s multifaceted, and I’m not someone who can sit at a desk for long. I’m always on the move, doing five things at once for everyone. And the people I’m doing it for — my office staff, the teachers, the children — they make it all the more rewarding.”

— Kim McFarland, principal of Roberts Elementary School

out how to use pieces in new, creative ways,” said McFarland. “I invest a lot of thought into what I wear because I’m in a position where my entire job revolves around interacting with people. I’m the face of the school, so I must represent it well, inwardly and outwardly.”

McFarland has been said face of Roberts Elementary for 15 years, a time in which no two days have been the same. As principal, McFarland is a marketer, counselor, head of public relations, editor, financial advisor, crisis mitigator and business manager in a company comprised of adults and children, making the dynamic one that even CEOs of the largest companies couldn’t fathom.

“It’s the ideal job for me because it’s multifaceted, and I’m not someone who can sit at a desk for long,” said McFarland. “I’m always on the move, doing five things at once for everyone. And the people I’m doing it for — my office staff, the teachers, the children — they make it all the more rewarding.”

Being in an elementary school, McFarland is involved in particularly formative years. Each year, with fondness, she reflects on the once timid kindergarteners who are graduating confidently to the next school.

←↑ At left, Kim McFarland is ready for classroom action in a black tank from Target; pants from EVERLANE; Converse high tops; earrings from Narcissus; and bracelets from Bedfellows of Tallahassee. Hair and makeup are by Jamie Whiddon with James Aesthetics. McFarland’s favorite coffee, inset photo, is brewed by Lucky Goat.

→ TAKING IT OUTSIDE

Kim McFarland is outfitted for a job around the school yard in a pink sculpt tank and black wunder high-rise crop pants from lululemon, and Nike Free Metcon 4 sneakers from Road Runner Sports. Her shaker cup is from the Burn Boot Camp, one of her favorites hangouts.

“Our future workforce and community members begin here,” said McFarland. “In our classrooms, we aim to build character and prepare them academically for this ever-changing world.”

Where an elementary school exists because of the students, McFarland is particularly invested in the lives of the teachers. In recent years, as a result of the pandemic and other educational policies set in place, McFarland has prioritized teachers by supplying the materials, time, encouragement and community they need for not only success but also enjoyment of their jobs.

McFarland has a heart for teachers because she’s been in their place. Before working in administrative roles, she taught for 12 years.

But prior to her passion for academics, McFarland struggled to settle on a career interest, particularly in her first two years of college — rather enjoying her time twirling and learning routines for Florida State University’s Marching Chiefs. It wasn’t until she took a course in education that her major and career path were realized, and she went on to achieve a master’s degree. Once a year, she still gets the opportunity to relive the enjoyment of the twirl, participating in the FSU alumni band.

Keeping physically active has remained important to McFarland. She makes it a priority to work out six days a week with Burn Boot Camp Tallahassee. When not at school

or the gym, she can be found frequenting the many trails in Tallahassee, chasing around her three grandkids or being a homebody. Fortunately, this lifestyle lends itself well to her favorite brand, Lululemon. Admittedly, she’s addicted to the brand’s leggings and tops that function well for workouts, errands and leisure while maintaining style.

Always on the go, McFarland has begun to consider a slower-paced life — more time spent with her husband, four children, grandchildren, faith and community.

“It will be hard to leave when I retire, I know that much,” said McFarland. “People move jobs often these days, but it’s not a thought that crossed my mind. I’m truly blessed with my family and a long, amazing career. Not everyone can say that.” TM

Principal Looks

The face of Roberts Elementary School, Kim McFarland, takes style as seriously as academics. Here are her go-to looks and recommendations:

SCHOOL UNIFORM

➺ Pleated trousers, a cute tank and a blazer paired with high-top Converse. A long print or denim skirt paired with a cardigan. Wide-leg jeans with a cute, colorful top and mules.

FITNESS FASHION

➺ lululemon wunder train tights, lululemon sculpt tanks in every color and Nike Metcon 4 training shoes.

FREQUENTED SHOPS

➺ Banana Republic, lululemon, H&M, Target, T.J. Maxx, DSW, Madewell and Everlane.

SKIN CARE

➺ Kim’s an advocate for keeping healthy skin in style and regularly visits Skin Science Aesthetics and Modern Aesthetics Spa.

FAVORITE ACCESSORY

➺ Coffee. A stop at the Lucky Goat cafe is a twice-weekly minimum, and the brand is her go-to home brew. She also frequents Ology Coffee Co.

photography by ALICIA OSBORNE

FASHION

TOTE-ALLY STILL IN FASHION

Utility of carry-all bags accounts for their popularity

From fresh farmers market finds and grocery store hauls to necessities for a day at the park, when we need a catch-all carrier, the tote bag is the first to come to mind. Where bag styles come and go, the tote carries with it a reputation of consistency for both fashion and function.

The tote bag emerged long before society was concerned with something being “in fashion.” We can look back as far as 17thcentury paintings to see depictions of men and women from all cultures using textile satchels to transport their belongings. Since tote simply means to carry, we can look back further to our ancestors to recognize the practicality of a bag worn on the body.

The creation of the tote bag as we know it today is credited to L.L. Bean, a fashion brand that was utilitarian-focused. In 1944, the tote bag first debuted as a large boxy canvas bag with primary uses of transporting ice and keeping food cool.

During the 40s and 50s, the tote bag made waves in the lives of housewives who used the bags for grocery transport, picnics, outdoor activities and more. L.L. Bean began releasing more colors and styles, and soon other brands caught on, mimicking the material, durable design and straps that sat nicely on the shoulder.

these bags are made of quality cotton and luxury leather rather than standard canvas, they still serve the simple purpose of toting our everyday essentials to and fro.

“Because of their multifaceted uses and the many styles, materials and colors, tote bags can easily be incorporated into just about any outfit,” said Kathryn Stewart, owner of Wonsaponatime Vintage.

Stewart suggests a leather tote in natural color for those in the corporate world, a large straw tote as a catch-all for a beach day, and a fun athleisure canvas for parents on the go.

At Wonsaponatime Vintage, Stewart stocks unique vintage totes for all occasions, but her best seller is the Market Bag,

→

Vintage, stocks timeless totes for all occasions. Her top seller is the Market Bag, specifically designed for produce and groceries.

↓

At Narcissus, manager and buyer

Sarah Villella recommends the Tory Burch Bio Tote in a cream, black or brown. They are made of plant fibers that provide a vegan leather feel and durability. Tory Burch also offers an Ella Raffia Melange Chain Tote. Both bags are versatile essentials featuring leather handles and a removable pouch.

←

Best-selling Hearth & Soul brand Remi & Reid provides an ideal day-tonight option with their reversible three-in-one tote that has a smaller bag and crossbody strap inside for great versatility.

specifically designed for produce and groceries. Many are choosing totes for shopping as an environmental and fashion statement.

How you wear your tote bag is dependent on your lifestyle. There are totes for farmers market strolling, rushing off to business meetings, hitting the sand or an elevated moment between the work day and cocktail hour.

“From travel to work, totes allow you to bring your essentials with you wherever you go while looking cute,” said Sarah Villella, manager and buyer of Narcissus. “Picking a neutral that works year-round makes it easier to style each season and allows the outfit to be the main focus.”

Villella suggests the Tory Burch Bio Tote in a cream, black or brown. These totes are composed of plant fibers to provide a vegan leather feel and look with functionality.

For a tote that’s appropriate for nighttime wear, Morgan Anthony, an apparel stylist with Hearth & Soul, suggests a mini version in a fabric such as suede or leather with smaller top handles.

Best-selling Hearth & Soul brand Remi & Reid provides the ideal day-to-night option with their reversible three-in-one bag that has a smaller bag and crossbody strap inside for endless versatility. ABLE is another popular brand committed to empowering women in the workforce while creating beautiful, handmade premium leather bags.

“The juxtaposition of the convenient, practical tote bag evolving into the world of novelty for this trend cycle is a testament to the ever-changing, amazing world of fashion,” said Anthony. “I believe the tote bag will always withstand the test of time due to its simple, classic, yet highly customizable shape that can fit any lifestyle and personality.”

As a society on the go, having a place to throw all your things that’s roomy, yet always en vogue, is essential. No matter where you’re headed out the door, keep a few totes on standby. TM

Kathryn Stewart, the owner of Wonsaponatime

ELLA BIO TOTE

ELLA RAFFIA MÉLANGE CHAIN TOTE

What’s In Store?

A roundup of offerings at local businesses

by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

➸ THE BLUSH AND PALM COLLECTIONS feature palm frond-shaped dishes, printed napkins and appliquéd textiles that provide a pop of verdant when paired with subtle blush tableware. These pairings evoke visions of tropical palm trees, warm white sand and softly setting suns, which inspired the Frond Fete Gathering Shop.

➸ THE IRIS BLUE COLLECTION is adorned with blue hues and designs inspired by the stages of plant growth from seedling to bud to bloom. Set against white, the baby blue, cobalt and navy are distinct, making a fresh and welcome addition to any table. Mix and match plates, bowls, mugs, canisters, towels, pitchers and more in whimsical prints.

VASES & MORE

Gypsy Rose Boutique

➸ If Maria Hurst, owner of Gypsy Rose, had to select one summer staple, it would be the GYPSY JUMPSUIT FROM BALI PREMA. The jumpsuit comes in a plethora of boho and tropical prints made from lightweight, breathable rayon.

The Gypsy can be worn over a dozen different ways, converting from jumpsuit to dress with adjustable straps and a variety of available lengths. It’s the ideal vacation dress, transitioning easily from a cover-up at the pool to a halter dress for sunset drinks.

Hearth & Soul

➸ ONNO COLLECTION began as a perfumer — taking their expertise in scents to candlemaking. The WAVES CANDLE blends rich, spicy notes with luscious florals to exude the true essence of nature. The glass vase housing each candle brings warm light to your interior, transforming any space into a realm of tranquility.

➸ Summer is citrus season, and why not have fresh juice at the ready? SMEG’S CITRUS JUICER brings the nostalgia of a 1950s kitchen with its retro design and soft colors. Highquality Italian craftsmanship ensures an easy juicing experience with a stainless steel strainer, anti-slip feet and an anti-drip spout.

➸ You’ll want to wear these GRADUATED DANGLE EARRINGS all summer long. The beautiful, intricate jewelry is crafted from freshwater pearls on 18k gold-plated sterling silver. These earrings will be your summer statement piece when paired with a cocktail dress — whether you’re at a wedding or out for cocktails — with a sleek updo to show them off.

What began as a pandemic project quickly turned into a business for Krishna and Akshar Patel who opened BAUM ROAD STUDIOS in October of 2020. The brother and sister duo sell ceramics and pottery in their studio and throughout Tallahassee in farmers markets, arts fairs, events and galleries. Their ceramic vases, tableware and jewelry make for unique and cherished handmade gifts. The studio, located in their parent’s barn, is fully equipped with two running kilns, a slab roller, an extruder and a variety of wheels to produce handcrafted, colorful pieces. They offer private and group classes at the studio, as well as providing classes and workshops.

Dining al fresco has never been as delightful as it is with Coton Colors’ latest summer prints.

←↓ THE BLUSH AND PALM COLLECTION

THE IRIS BLUE COLLECTION

gastro&gusto

JUL/AUG 2023

FROM THE SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE TO THE PI É CE DE R É SISTANCE

SUMMERTIME SIPPINGS

Leading mixologists spike venerated cocktail traditions

by MARINA BROWN ↓

↖

LEVEL 8’S SUNSET MARTINI

Malibu rum, peach schnapps, pineapple juice and grenadine garnished with orange. It’s a sweet, fruity, summer martini with notes of coconut.

Let’s admit it. Some occasions just call for cocktails. Colorful, sweet, frosty and fun, cocktails seem to be the perfect statement that summer is here. Serious types may stick to their brown whiskeys or an obligatory glass of wine, but mixing up an electric blue or fragrant orange beverage paints happy hour in a whole different hue.

Cocktails are old. Some speak of ancient Greeks mixing “punch bowls” of different alcoholic ingredients together, then lovingly presenting them as offerings to a Zeus or Hera. The word “libation” translates loosely to “an offering to a god.”

Later, cocktails seemed to have fallen in the alcohol hierarchy. In the 1700s, the leftovers of whiskey

barrels and gin distilleries — the “tailings” — were often mixed together, pumped out through a “cock” (or spigot) and sold cheaply. Onlookers thought the behavior of the imbibers — “acting like cocks of the walk” — was a good appellation for a drink that seemed to make everyone, even then, feel good.

In 1838, a New Orleans pharmacist named Antoine Peychaud invented the first named cocktail, the sazerac, made of rye, absinthe, sugar and bitters. By the time of Prohibition, speak-easies were mixing cheap liquor together with exotic flavors for illicit and naughty nights.

With the ascent of Americans’ taste for wines between the 1960s and ’80s, cocktails declined in

↗ SAVOUR’S SUPERMAN

Maker’s Mark Bourbon, muddled strawberries, lemon juice, simple syrup and aromatic bitters

favor, but since the 1990s, their popularity has come roaring back. Specialty cocktail bars and inventive mixologists might add the essences of jalapeno peppers, cucumbers, rhubarb, pineapples, oranges and even horseradish to the tequila, gin, rye, rum and vodka that make up most cocktails. Adventurous drinkers everywhere are drawn in by such elaborate flavor profiles.

Drew McLeod, owner of downtown’s Savour, has turned their mixed drinks into monthly “sippings” with a superhero theme. Beneath sparkling chandeliers, bar guests giggle at the supersized ice cubes in the shape of an “S” and munch on edible flowers as they lick gold dust sugar from their lips.

The Superman cocktail for summer is made with Maker’s Mark, muddled strawberries, lemon juice, simple syrup, aromatic bitters and roseinfused ice cubes.

The Spiderman will keep you cool with Flor de Cana and Saya Rums, pineapple, Aperol, Velvet Falernum and lime.

BLU HALO’S THE LAST DAYS OF SUMMER

A concoction of cucumber vodka, elderflower liqueur and rhubarb

Aperol is a hit.

LEVEL 8’S PASSION SMASH

Kaiyo Japanese Whiskey, lemongrass juice, passion cordial, lemon juice and simple syrup garnished with a lime leaf. It is bright and refreshing with notes of citrus.

BAR 1903’S OUT OF THE WEEDS PUNCH A stir of Fabriquero Sotol, Smith & Cross Rum, Cronan, Braulio, lime juice, turbinado sugar, toasted almond bark tea and coconut milk

↗ BLU HALO’S POPULAR MOSCOW MULES

A classic mix of lime, vodka and ginger beer, topped with sweet blueberries

The Level 8 Lounge, one of Tallahassee’s earliest rooftop cocktail spaces, always prepares a summer cocktail collection, said bartender Donnie Plante. “With views across the city, guests particularly love the Sunset Martini. Coconut rum, peach schnapps, pineapple juice and grenadine are perfect for a colorful summer evening.”

D.J. Williams, bar manager of the trendy restaurant and bar Blu Halo, admits that summer drinks often seem lifted off an island fruit stand. “Mango, cantaloupe, watermelon, strawberries and pineapples (are popular additions), but we always do our own creations.”

Blu Halo’s popular Moscow mules, a classic mix of lime, vodka and ginger beer, will have blueberries added this year. The Last Days of Summer, a concoction of cucumber vodka, elderflower liqueur and rhubarb Aperol is a hit.

“Infusing cedar or cherrywood smoke into cocktails is another popular hot weather trend,” Williams said.

Bar 1903, a 100-year-old downtown landmark turned elegant cocktail lounge, features not only newly created drinks, but libation recipes stretching back 160 years. Summer fruitiness and curated spirits blend together to sound like haute cuisine despite the funky name, Out of the Weeds Punch. A stir of Fabriquero Sotol, Smith & Cross Rum, Cronan, Braulio, lime juice, turbinado sugar, toasted almond bark tea and coconut milk may sound uppity, but like all these cocktails, it’s just right for a sultry Tallahassee night. TM

LEVEL 8’S AMETHYST

Butterfly pea-infused Alkkemist Gin with grapefruit and lemon juice, Luxardo maraschino liqueur. It is bontanical with notes of citrus.

SAVOUR’S SHAZAM

St. George California citrus vodka, blueberrylavender shrub, simple syrup, lillett, soda and lemon

SPLENDID PICNICS

Moving beyond blankets

by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

In an idyllic verdant field atop a redcheckered blanket sits a family. Look closer to find soggy egg salad sandwiches, a parade of ants infiltrating the bag of chips and an absence of beverages, forgotten on the kitchen counter.

This is a scene from the past. The picnics of today have been upgraded. Picnic planning companies are invested in elevating a dining experience society yearns to love but can’t seem to get right.

Millennials revived the picnic with nostalgia for simpler times made sublime. Picnics pair well with Instagram aesthetics, and picnic planning services are capitalizing on the trend.

Tallahassee Picnics, LLC, owned by Madison Zabala, even boasts the catchphrase, “picnic pics or it didn’t happen.”

Tallahassee Picnics offers picnic packages and event planning for groups of two to 30. Zabala bought the business in 2021 thinking the picnic trend was popular as a result of being a fun event that could take place outdoors and socially distanced during the pandemic.

“Picnics have proven their staying power because they are a unique and exceptional way to celebrate any experience from an out-of-the-box date night to a birthday party or surprise proposal,” said Zabala.

Whether at a local park or private residence, Zabala works with each client to personalize their picnic. Alongside tableware, decor and cushions, Zabala offers lowrise picnic tables and florals that can be kept.

Tallahassee Picnics offers packages and event planning for clients ranging from couples to large groups such as the eighth-grade class pictured in lower photo. Options include charcuterie, food deliveries, a boho tee-pee, customized cookies and 30-minute professional photography sessions.

↗

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Dr. Lauren Combs

Add-ons include charcuterie, food deliveries, a boho tee-pee, customized cookies, 30-minute professional photography sessions and more.

Up the road, Forgotten Coast Picnics, specializes in sunset and beachside picnics in Port St. Joe, St. George Island, Mexico Beach, Apalchicola and Cape San Blas.

Similarly to Zabala, Kriserica Davis, owner and picnic coordinator of Forgotten Coast Picnics, personalizes the decor, tableware, food and activities to your picnic’s purpose.

“I think picnic planning popularity is on the rise because it’s a new trend that can be intimate and

romantic but then can also be a fun thing to do with your family or girlfriends,” said Davis.

Davis partners with a catering company to provide the food and has her own treasure trove of decor including linens, tableware, glassware, rugs, cushions, seats, a projector, Bluetooth speakers, a decorative teepee and a metal ring that can be personalized with florals or balloons.

A picnic can be dressed up for a romantic proposal picnic or dressed down for a beachside bonfire complete with firepit setup and smores.

“Our picnics offer such a unique experience, combining finer dining with the natural outdoors,” said

↙

“The highest praise I can receive is to hear I made a client’s vision come to life,” says Tallahassee Picnics’ Madison Zabala, a Rowland Publishing Pinnacle Award winner. “I want to make their date night or event easy by blowing them away when they see their picnic setup.”

Zabala strives to provide clients with experiences that are both relaxed and memorable.

→ Forgotten Coast Picnics’ Sweetheart Package includes staging and cleanup; light snacks; sparkling or still water with ice; low-sitting table, pillows, rugs and blankets; table decor and LED candles; and a Bluetooth speaker.

Davis. “I personally think it’s such a great combination of such two separate ideas that just makes a special experience all on its own.”

As far as picnics go, a blanket and a spread of cheeses will do, but a truly immersive experience should include a scenic setting, ideal weather, delicious food, chilled beverages, cozy seating, a playlist and good company. Additional ambience enhancements include lighting, candles, florals, music, games, cushions and place settings complete with dishes, cups and cutlery.

Fortunately, the many local parks of Tallahassee and the nearby coastal beaches lend themselves to beautiful vistas.

Generally, Northwest Florida makes for ideal picnic weather year-round. Golden hour makes for the best temperatures and lighting. If you dine al fresco during cooler weather, be sure to have blankets or shawls available for guests.

Davis and Zabala agree that charcuterie is one of the most requested food options. When selecting your picnic fare, they advised foods that don’t need to be heated and can be eaten at room temperature.

Pack a cooler with ice packs and prepackaged bag or jar foods, such as salads, charcuterie, sandwiches, chips, dips, fruits, vegetables, cookies and the like. Chilled wine, champagne, premixed cocktails, lemonade, tea, sparkling water and canned beverages are palate pleasers to add to the cooler. If you invest in a picnic planning service, many have catering options available.

Blankets or towels are the most common seating option, but lowrise picnic tables, cushions, pillows, blankets or camp chairs add to the comfort.

With the basic elements of a picnic established, it’s up to you to decide on additions.

For a romantic dinner for two, set out florals, candles, china and stemware to make their heart flutter. For a celebration with friends, select a theme and matching decorations. Don’t forget the lawn games.

Picnic planners help curate a picnic that aligns with your wants and needs, including setup and breakdown of rented decor, location selection, space styling, connections with other vendors and more.

“The highest praise I can receive is to hear I made a client’s vision come to life,” said Zabala. “I want to make their date

night or event easy by blowing them away when they see their picnic setup and then they are able to just hangout and have an unforgettable experience together.”

Longer days and seemingly endless sunshine encourage dusting off picnic baskets, cleaning out coolers and setting sights for the perfect shady spot to celebrate summer. TM

↑ Experienced picnic purveyors hope to combine a scenic setting and ideal weather with delicious food, chilled beverages, cozy seating, a playlist and good company. Additional enhancements may include lighting, candles, florals, music, games, cushions and place settings complete with dishes, cups and cutlery. Kriserica Davis, owner and picnic coordinator at Forgotten Coast Picnics, partners with a catering company to provide the food and has her own treasure trove of decor.

Hannah Walker, APRN and Timothy Walker, MD

TRENDS

Cold Brew

More than iced coffee

by RAEMI CRETEUR

Cups clink as guests carry on conversations inside the cafe. The warm smell of espresso fills the air. A cozy seat next to the window beckons with a bit of sunshine, providing the perfect lighting to settle in with a good book and a latte of velvety steamed milk, rich espresso, a touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Here, time simply melts away.

Everything melts in August heat, and the thermometer doesn’t seem to have numbers high enough to reflect the temperature outside.

When looking for a summer alternative to that steamy latte, don’t just clunk a few ice cubes in your leftover morning coffee — brew your coffee cold from the start.

“The buzz behind cold brew coffee is because there is no hot water introduced,” said Alex Conley, head of coffee education and product development at Lucky Goat Coffee Company. “A lot of the acids that are naturally present in coffee don’t get extracted into the cold brew.”

Cold brew coffee offers a smoother, fuller-bodied experience than traditional iced coffee, which can quickly become watered down as the ice melts. The lower acid content from this brewing method makes

FRENCH

cold brew a rich coffee beverage without the unpleasant bitterness. Iced coffee also loses out in terms of longevity.

“Hot coffee often loses its structure quickly as it cools down, whereas cold brew can be stored in the fridge and it’s still good a week later,” Conley said. “The slower rate of extraction maintains pH balance, but the taste is much smoother and you get a more concentrated end product.”

Lucky Goat Coffee Company manufactures their own cold brew grinds at a facility off Capital Circle for café distribution here in town and across the 30A region. The company also sells three variants that can be brewed at home. The coffee company also boasts a homebrewed rig for nitro cold brew, a system that injects the concentrated cold brew with nitrogen gas.

“When you put nitrogen in cold brew, it cascades up to the top, creating a really creamy, cloudy texture to form a nitrogen head,” Conley said. “We created a system in our cafés that can infuse nitrogen much more efficiently to make it even more creamy.”

Cold brew coffee is surprisingly delicious even without milk or sugar,

despite being a concentrated form of coffee similar to espresso. Still, not everyone enjoys their coffee neat.

“Oatmilk is a popular addition,” said Conley. “It’s super creamy, and that’s what people are missing when they don’t want to have the dairy component to their drink, but they still want that creaminess. Vanilla syrup is also our most popular addition, not just for cold brew but across the board.”

Hot coffee can be a sacred experience, but with weather this warm, it may be time to try something cool. If you love to experiment with brewing methods at home, cold brew is sure to be a summer favor ite in your repertoire. TM

PRESS COLD BREW AT HOME

Grab your favorite roast or a bag of beans labeled for cold brewing. Grind the beans coarsely, as you would for a French press brew. Combine 2 cups of coffee grinds with 3 ½ cups of filtered water into your 1 ½ liter (6 cup) French press. Stir the ingredients until all of the coffee grounds are saturated, cover and leave in the fridge for 18 hours. The following day, press down the plunger on your French press, and pour your coffee into a large pitcher. To serve, combine equal parts cold brew and filtered water, add your favorite syrup and cream and pour over ice.

↑ Lucky Goat Coffee Company manufactures its own cold-brew grinds at a facility off Capital Circle for distribution to cafés in Tallahassee and throughout coastal Northwest Florida. The company sells to individual consumers three variants that can be brewed at home.

PHOTOS BY JENNIFER EKRUT (FRENCH PRESS) AND COURTESY OF LUCKY GOAT COFFEE (CUP)

FRESH LOOK TAKING A

Retired detective returns to modernize cold case investigation

BY EMMA WITMER

THE TECHNOLOGIES AND METHODS USED BY POLICE TO SOLVE CASES ARE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.

Databases like the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) become more valuable as they are more widely used. DNA can be extracted from smaller and smaller samples of blood, semen and saliva. Skin cells left behind by merely touching a surface can yield actionable trace DNA for modern investigators. When DNA is tested, investigators receive results faster than ever before.

Genealogical data can be used to identify or narrow down the identity of a suspect or victim. This method was recently used to identify and charge Alan Lefferts in the 27-year-old homicide case of James Branner.

PROFILED CASES

Of 71 documented cold cases, 18 are listed on TPD’s cold case webpage with photos (often mugshots) and brief case descriptions.

TPD COLD CASES

Despite these advancements, some cases remain unsolved. The Tallahassee Police Department maintains an archive of 71 cold cases of homicide or missing persons dating to 1957. Most are paper files kept in the department’s cold case closet.

“We are trying to set up a plan to digitize all of those case files, so they go in the police department’s database so they can be searchable by names,” or other aspects of the case, said Berkeley Clayton, a former TPD homicide detective. “We can’t do that now because they are paper, so you have to go through and read each case. That project is our priority right now.”

Clayton and digital forensics investigator Marcia Rodriguez came out of retirement during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist where needed and were quickly assigned to the digitization project. Clayton worked with TPD for 30 years prior to his initial retirement in 2006. Some of the cold cases he and Rodriguez are processing date back to his own time in homicide.

“I had a couple of cases where I knew who did it,” Clayton said. “There was just not enough there to prove it. There was one that I really wanted to prove, but I had nothing — no evidence whatsoever. That’s why I started (working on the cold cases). With four

times as many people, you could do a lot more, but I work cases, too. We do them as much as we can.”

Officers across departments can pick up cold cases as their schedules allow, but TPD does not maintain a formal cold case unit with dedicated personnel. Even though Clayton is assigned to digitize the files, he also maintains a caseload of “crimes against persons” as part of the violent crimes unit. No prioritization structure exists for what cold cases are reopened. Clayton says he simply starts at the top of the stack.

As Clayton and Rodriquez work through the files, he keeps an eye out for evidence. What DNA can be tested again? What witnesses are still alive? More often than not, cold trails remain cold.

“Sometimes you literally have no evidence,” Clayton said. “In one homicide I worked on in 1991 up here at the Capitol Cinemas, this woman got robbed coming out. She was shot and killed. No evidence. The only thing at the scene was her blood. Our witness was very good, but the suspect had a mask on. That was all she could describe. I recovered a bullet, but without a weapon to match it to, it’s no good.”

In his estimation, digitizing these cold case files could assist investigators beyond the process of retesting

old evidence. He believes that searchability will create previously unrecognized connections between otherwise separate cases.

“This witness in this case, was he involved in anything else?”

Clayton said. “That’s why we are wanting to digitize everything, to be able to search a name or a location or a suspect name to coordinate these cases. A lot of these guys, they do stuff all the time.”

Of 71 documented cold cases, 18 are listed on TPD’s cold case webpage with photos (often mugshots) and brief case descriptions. Eleven of 19 victims are black men. Clayton points to witness cooperation as one barrier, and opportunity, in solving some of these cases.

“Those are the witnesses you go back and talk to,” Clayton said. “Sometimes, if a witness is not a hard core criminal, they will talk to you, but if they are a hard core criminal, they won’t.”

Witness testimony can greatly assist investigators, but it is physical evidence that ultimately closes cases.

“The evidence is the most important part,” Clayton said. “You can’t argue with that. If your DNA was there, you were there. Statements change, witnesses change, they die, but that evidence lasts forever as long as you take care of it.”

Unfortunately, he said, TPD has lost evidence before. Had it not been for

an abundance of maintained evidence and extensive documentation from the original investigation of James Branner, Detective Brittney Able would not have made an arrest in 2022.

“Without them and how hard they worked and how diligently, we might not have received closure on this case,” Able said of her experience investigating the cold case. “It really all comes down to them. I know myself, moving forward, when I go to a scene in the

future, I’m going to make sure I document it like I would want for someone else 20 years down the line working on it again.”

Even with advancing technologies, better management of cold cases and detectives dedicated to turning over every stone, some cases may never be solved. For police, it can be difficult not to take those cases to heart. Clayton can describe some 30-year-old cases in vivid detail. One day, he hopes, someone will find answers. TM

← Berkeley Clayton, a former Tallahassee Police Department homicide detective, reviews a cold case file the old fashioned way. “We are trying to set up a plan to digitize all of those case files,” he said, explaining that they will then be searchable by names or other aspects of the case. “We can’t do that now because they are paper. That (digitalization) project is our priority right now.”

“The evidence is the most important part,” Clayton said. “You can’t argue with that. If your DNA was there, you were there. Statements change, witnesses change, they die, but that evidence lasts forever as long as you take care of it.”

PHOTOS BY DAVE BARFIELD

DNA EVIDENCE

LEADS TO ARREST

Closure may be near for survivors of James Branner

BY EMMA WITMER

AMPED UP, DETECTIVE BRITTNEY ABLE MADE A LATE-NIGHT DRIVE FROM JACKSONVILLE TO THE TALLAHASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT. WHILE SHE HAD SPENT A DAY WITH A KILLER, SHE WAS NOT RATTLED BY THE EXPERIENCE SO MUCH AS SHE WAS ENERGIZED.

The man, whom some might describe as a monster, had been convicted of manslaughter in the 1979 killing of a teenage girl in New York. Able had found him, looked into his eyes and spoken to him. The predator was now Able’s prey, ensnared by his own DNA.

Twenty-six years following another killing, Able did not want James Branner’s daughters to wait another minute to hear the news. The man she believed to be their father’s killer was alive and in custody. His name was Alan Lefferts.

COLD CASE EVIDENCE

JAMES EDWIN BRANNER JULY 02, 1996

NARROWING THE SEARCH

Able’s look into Branner’s death began in 2020. Often, she would pore over cold case files after completing her regular duties for a day. Some cases dated back just a few years, while other files had been collecting dust for decades.

“I’ve always, since being a teenager, wanted to investigate,” Able said. “I’ve always had an interest in cold cases. I’ve reviewed several over the years. It’s just always been an interest of mine, one that would keep me driving forward.”

Most of the files suggested no avenues for renewed investigation. The Branner killing was an exception.

On its face, the 1996 case appeared to be one that could be easily solved. Multiple witnesses had provided descriptions of a suspect. The hotel

room had been reserved for “Jim and Al Branner.” Investigators had taken meticulous notes. Crime scene technicians had impounded or documented nearly every item from the hotel room. Evidence included a bloody handprint and a washcloth sure to contain the suspect’s DNA.

“Other than the beds, we had everything,” Able said. “It was really just a fantastic case looking at it from an investigative standpoint. I saw that they had exhausted all their leads at the time, but once again, we knew we had a suspect’s DNA. We just needed to figure out who he was.”

The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) was new in 1996 and did not yield a match for the DNA obtained from the washcloth. Investigators ran the sample against the database year after year to no avail.

New technologies led Able back to the DNA. Genealogical testing companies including Ancestry and 23andMe had opened up a new avenue for investigators. They might not be able to get an exact match for a sample, but if anyone on the suspect’s family tree had used one of these services to learn more about their own ancestry, police could use familial DNA matches to narrow down their search.

Armed with this information, Able sent DNA found at the scene to Parabon NanoLabs, a Virginia-based company that provides DNA phenotyping services for law enforcement organizations. In return, she received an extensive list of partial matches.

Following six years as a member of the Violent Crimes Unit, Able was transferred to TPD’s Criminal Intelligence Unit, where she wasn’t bogged down by a stream of cases. For the next year, she spent her free time at the station focused on the near-matches and searching for a link to Branner or even Tallahassee.

After coming across Lefferts’ name, she started looking into his history. “Al” had been part of the registration for Branner’s hotel room. Lefferts had already been convicted of manslaughter in a case where the M.O. aligned with Branner’s cause of death — asphyxiation.

“Mr. Lefferts was not from here,” Able said. “He was

traveling through, so there were no documented contacts with him. There was really no way to know he was ever here. I think that was the big thing for police at the time. He was kind of living a transient lifestyle. It’s hard to identify someone that you don’t know exists.”

MAN WITH MANY FACES

Unraveling the life of Alan Lefferts was a difficult task. He has used an alias, Charles McLaughlin, for much of his adult life and presented a troubling history.

New York’s Poughkeepsie Journal archives chronicle Lefferts’ violent history. On a Friday night in 1979, Lefferts picked up 15-year-old Mary Mabee hitchhiking near her mother’s Scotchtown, New York, home. Days later, Mabee’s body

was discovered in the woods after Lefferts apparently alerted passing motorists. Police interrogation yielded a confession. Lefferts, then identified as McLaughlin, had strangled the girl.

He was convicted on manslaughter charges and spent about nine years in a New York prison under the false name, according to a 1990 edition of The Palm Beach Post

Lefferts was paroled in 1989, fled New York and traveled to Florida. FBI agents apprehended Lefferts without incident at a Fort Lauderdale Greyhound Bus station. The Miami Herald, Palm Beach Post and St. Lucie News Tribune reported the arrest, referring to Lefferts as a “serial rapist-murderer.”

→ Lefferts was paroled in 1989, fled New York and traveled to Florida. FBI agents apprehended Lefferts without incident at a Fort Lauderdale Greyhound Bus station. The Miami Herald, Palm Beach Post and St. Lucie News Tribune reported the arrest, referring to Lefferts as a “serial rapistmurderer.”

These nearly identical reports ran on Feb. 27, 1990, more than six years before the killing of Branner.

(continued to page 124)

“Other than the beds, we had everything,” Able said. “It was really just a fantastic case looking at it from an investigative standpoint. I saw that they had exhausted all their leads at the time, but once again, we knew we had a suspect’s DNA. We just needed to figure out who he was.”

↖

Detective Brittany Able of the Tallahassee Police Department was on hand for the arrest of a suspect in a 27-year-old murder case.

JUL/AUG 2023

KEEPING TABS ON ALL THAT MUSES INSPIRE

IN TUNE AND ON TIME

High-energy Mae West Band champions professionalism

by EMMA WITMER

FILM Troubled Waters || BOOKS Wing Man

The Mae West Band shatters several cover band stereotypes. Its members are not wedding singers or devotees of a particular artist. Music is not just a hobby for Steve Lewis, Cliff Sherry, Dave Bennage and front man Dan Owens. It is a lifelong pursuit extending far beyond the band’s 10 years performing in venues from Tallahassee to Orlando, Jacksonville to Mexico Beach.

The Mae West Band is often associated with country rock anthems, but it remains influenced by the heavy rockers who colored its members’ early lives and musical pursuits.

“The first thing I say to any venue owner is, ‘If you have 10 people in the bar, there will be at least 10 people

when we leave,’” Bennage said. “We aren’t going to chase anybody out. There aren’t a lot of bands that cover the range of music we play. We can do new country, ’90s rock, ’80s rock, ’70s rock, 2000s rock.”

If you don’t know the first song of the set, you are sure to know the next.

Performances by the Mae West Band are as interactive as they are technically proficient. Owens, typically decked out in rhinestones and a cowboy hat, has a reputation for dipping into the crowd, dancing with audience members and passing the mic to anyone bold enough to sing along.

“I have been known to be a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde,” said Owens, who is a financial consultant by day.

↘

The Mae West Band — in descending order, Cliff Sherry, Dave Bennage, Steve Lewis and Dan Owens — celebrated at the House of Music when they reached 10 years of playing music together.

↑ Steve Lewis has elected to move away from vocals and concentrate on his bass playing.

photography by ERICH MARTIN

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Owens joined the band just before the COVID-19 pandemic arrived. A relatively subdued Lewis had decided to give singing a backseat and focus on bass. Over the course of a few riverside camping trips and socially distanced shows, Owens proved he was the man for the job.

“I think the biggest thing that I brought to the band was energy,” Owens said. “I like to roam and interact with the crowd. They were so tight it was just a matter of jumping in and getting the vibe.”

“It really does change things,” Lewis said. “You see a guy running out and getting the crowd going versus someone just singing and playing. It’s better for everyone.”

Bennage cut his teeth during the grunge rock era in Orlando before retiring from the Postal Service and

moving to Tallahassee. Not ready to hang up his guitar, Bennage advertised his services on Craigslist. Lewis immediately responded and offered up friend and former bandmate Sherry as drummer. The guys meshed. Their wives hit it off and would become part of the show. With the women dancing out front, crowds couldn’t help but join in.

“At the beginning, we were playing all the time,” Bennage said. “At least twice a week, every week of the year. Recently, we have decided to slow down a bit and be more picky about where we play. The product has become a lot better over the years.”

At 66, Bennage is the senior member of the band.

The guys call him their “house mom.” When he isn’t shredding on his guitar to a Jason Aldean or Blink-182 song, he handles all of the band’s bookings, promotion, sound and lighting, along with the cat herding required to keep the band in tune and on time.

“You talk to any bar owner, and they will tell you how this band didn’t show up or they were an hour late or they didn’t have their stuff,” Sherry said. “We hear that all the time, so we pledged that we would never be that band that didn’t show up on time and didn’t have our crap in line. We try to be really professional with it. We’re going to come. We’re going to bring it and light the place on fire.” TM

↘

From left: Dave Bennage, Cliff Sherry and Dan Owens. You wouldn’t think so, but Owens is a financial consultant by day.

Dr. Peter Frederick, a University of Florida professor emeritus, examines a naturally occurring oyster. “We don’t have to pay them to grow and function,” he says. “We just need to create the right conditions for them.”

Troubled Waters

Powerful film documents collapse of oyster fishery

by STEVE BORNHOFT

In 1959, Truman Capote happened upon a brief article in The New York Times that reported the murders of four members of a Kansas family at their farmhouse outside the tiny town of Holcomb. Capote immediately sensed that there was a larger story to be told, one of a sort that he had been looking for.

Six years later, In Cold Blood, one of the foremost examples of the nonfiction novel, was published.

It is quaint to think about an author paging through a printed newspaper and landing on an item that would occasion a hugely consequential work. Sixty years later, however, much the same thing may have happened.

Chucha Barber, a documentary filmmaker, was turning the pages of

the Tallahassee Democrat when an article about the Florida State University Marine Lab caught her eye.

Triumph Gulf Coast, the nonprofit responsible for making grant awards from damages paid by BP owing to the Deepwater Horizon disaster, had approved the lab’s application for $8 million to fund a study, the Apalachicola Bay System Initiative.

As an employee of a science museum in Miami, Chucha Barber was inspired 30 years ago by a dinosaur display to produce her first documentary film. In years since, she has developed numerous Emmy-award winning television programs and educational videos. She has been the executive producer of more than 25 documentaries produced in partnership with stations affiliated with networks including NBC, CBS, ABC, Univision and Telemundo. She has earned awards including “Marketer of the Year” from the American Marketing Association, “Innovator of the Year” from the Florida Museums Association and a regional “Tommy” award for promoting tourism as economic development. Her community involvements have included service as commissioner for Volunteer Florida, chair of the Volunteer Florida Foundation, chair of the Community Cultural Plan Advisory Board, and co-chair of the 2017 Heart Ball for the National Heart Association.

CHUCHA BARBER

The aim of the study would be to develop and implement strategies for restoring a sustainable oyster fishery in the bay.

Barber thought there might be a larger story there. She called Josh McLawhorn of Level Up Digital Media with whom she had done projects in the past. The pair checked in with Gary Ostrander, then the vice president for research at FSU, who turned them on to a 2007 book by Mark Kurlansky, The Big Oyster: History on the Half Shell. They then visited the marine lab, where a shark study was nearing completion and where the oyster research would be conducted.

Barber and McLawhorn would soon gain an appreciation for the global extent of the oyster collapse problem. Worldwide, some 90 percent of the planet’s oyster reefs have been lost, Barber said.

“At every turn, we learned something more about oysters, and the subject became more and more intriguing,” Barber said.

As plans for a documentary about oysters came into focus, producer Barber and director McLawhorn envisioned traveling to Chesapeake Bay as an example of successful restoration and also New York, which historically had been a leading oyster producer.

“If we have a regret about the project, it is that COVID clipped our wings,” Barber said. “People weren’t excited about a film crew flying in from Florida — especially Florida — and conducting interviews. And, equally, we weren’t thrilled about getting on a plane.”

As a result, Unfiltered: The Truth About Oysters is concerned primarily with Apalachicola Bay — and that’s not necessarily a bad result. The narrow focus made for a project that was manageable in scope and is more highly personal than it might otherwise have been.

The film’s title, itself, is layered with meaning. Oysters are filter feeders, which serve to remove impurities from water, making it cleaner and clearer. Waters without oysters may be said to be unfiltered. Documentarians, meanwhile, endeavor to present unfiltered truths.

To do so, the Unfiltered team, which includes McLawhorn’s wife, Gaby Rodeiro, who served as an editor, and Kurlansky, a consultant to the film, permits sources to tell their own stories and offer assessments of problems and solutions. They include government officials, members of the scientific community and displaced oyster harvesters. Apalachicola Bay, per state mandate, is currently closed to the harvest of wild oysters.

The film is at turns maddening and saddening and is illuminating throughout. Barber hopes that even as it refrains from specific calls to action, it results in pressure on government agencies and elected officials to do more to protect marine habitats and marine life.

↑ Dr. Peter Frederick, above and opposite, checked oyster densities during a low winter tide at Lone Cabbage Reef near Cedar Key. He notes that salinity levels are a big factor in the lives of oysters. Low levels lead oysters to clam up and stop feeding. High levels leave them vulnerable to predators and parasites.

Mark Kurlansky’s The Big Oyster: History on the Half Shell traces the rise of New York City and the parallel ascendancy of the lowly oyster, beginning with the discovery of middens by 17th century Dutch settlers.

While former oyster habitat in New York may be impossible to restore given all the PCBs and heavy metals present in waters there, and Chesapeake Bay has substantially been brought back. Apalachicola Bay, McLawhorn said, is an example of a bay that might go either way.

“Oyster reef restoration has been made necessary by human activity,” McLawhorn said. “We have to own the negative and change those actions. If we are doing a little restoration and a lot of destruction, it’s still a negative.”

The Apalachicola Bay wild oyster harvest moratorium will be revisited in 2025. Nobody can say for sure what will happen then.

“The state may conclude that we need to keep the bay closed longer,” Barber said. “Harvests may be limited to prescribed areas. But you can’t let wild harvesting levels come back to what they once were. The days are gone when you crossed the Eastpoint bridge and you saw so many oyster boats that it looked like you could walk across the water.”

↑ Veteran documentary filmmaker Chucha Barber, at right, joined with Josh McLawhorn and Gaby Rodeiro of Level Up Digital Media in Tallahassee in the making of Unfiltered: The Truth About Oysters, an examination of the causes of the collapse of the oyster fishery in Apalachicola Bay. Worldwide, 80 percent of oyster beds have been lost to environmental degradation and other factors.

Is tonging, the means by which wild oysters are collected from bay bottoms, a thing of the past in Apalachicola Bay?

“I hate to say yes, but I think so,” Barber said. “For a lot of reasons. You can’t wait out a fiveyear closure doing nothing. People move away. And Apalachicola is changing. It’s the Florida Gulf Coast. Property values are rising and the cost of living along with them. At some point, the economics won’t work for the shucker or the oysterman.”

Barber said the experience of making the film was emotional.

“We met an older man who talks about how he can’t do what his pappy and grandpappy did,” she said. “He can barely talk because his lip is quivering and his eyes are tearing up. It was a powerful thing. How are you going to give a way of life back to the people? When you are at the bottom of the pipeline, you are at a serious disadvantage.”

Barber is from South Florida, worked for the Miami Herald for a time and lived aboard a wooden

Oysters on the Big Screen

UNFILTERED: THE TRUTH ABOUT OYSTERS was screened at the Sarasota Film Festival in March and will be included in the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival in November. An application has been made for acceptance by the Redfish Film Festival, which will take place in Panama City in spring 2024.

In addition, the film will be shown at the Tallahassee Film Festival, slated for Sept. 2–3 at venues in the city’s Gaines Street and Railroad Square district.

boat. She did the never-ending work of teak maintenance and showered in a swimsuit beneath a hose. She never knew if the kerosene was going to run out before her coffee was ready.

She enjoyed success as a fundraiser for the Miami Science Museum. When Japanese exhibitors brought mechanical dinosaurs to town, she was inspired to make her first film about the giant lizards that once roamed the earth.

Told that she belongs in a Carl Hiaasen novel, she replied, “Yes, I do.”

McLawhorn and Rodeiro both majored in biochemistry at the University of Florida, where they met. Each at one point had plans to become a medical doctor. She was born in Cuba and grew up in Canada and Florida. After college, he bicycled across the country as an advocate for Bike & Build, a nonprofit whose cause is affordable housing. When he came off the road, he reclaimed an old job at a pet food and supplies store in Gainesville. He embarked

↖ Up and down the Forgotten Coast of Franklin County, oysterman Shannon Hartsfield has friends and detractors. “A lot of people think I’m a traitor because I work with all the agencies, but it keeps me involved with the bay,” he says. “I can’t give up. I’m not gonna give up until I’m 6 feet under.”

“I am honored to spotlight this captivating film on an important topic that unfortunately lies just below the surface for most people, but has overarching environmental and economic impacts,” said Chris Faupel, the creative director for the Tallahassee Film Festival.

“Chucha Barber and her team have created a masterful and expertly sourced documentary about the work being done and the work still ahead to restore and protect precious Florida habitat.”

photo by Scott Holstein

Get Your Life Back

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on his current path upon landing a job with a Tallahassee video production company. There, he met Barber.

All agree that there has been no single cause of the collapse of the Apalachicola Bay oyster reefs. Before launching the Unfiltered project, Barber believed that the collapse resulted from the diminished flow of freshwater from the Apalachicola-ChattahoocheeFlint rivers system to the bay. She would find out later that oysters can tolerate increased salinity levels. The problem is that amped up salinity also invites predators such as the oyster drill. Septic system runoff and the channelization of rivers have played roles. And, in 2010, when the state believed the bay was going to be fouled by oil and dispersant from the Deepwater Horizon blowout, it allowed an unlimited oyster harvest.

“One of the themes in the documentary is that if you leave things alone, nature will take care of itself,” McLawhorn said. “To me that implies that there is a certain inertia in nature. Things are the way they are and developed the way they did because the rivers want to flow to the sea. We humans have expended significant effort and capital to fight against natural processes, but nature seems to come out on top time after time.”

“It’s not all gloom and doom,” Barber added. “I believe that Florida could become a global leader for restoration and become the model for how to do it. It’s just going to take political will.” TM

“One of the themes in the documentary is that if you leave things alone, nature will take care of itself.”

— Josh McLawhorn, Level Up Digital Media

Apalachicola River

Oysters on concrete

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Enjoy an active lifestyle emphasizing wellness and lifelong learning opportunities at our Life Plan Community on 140 acres of rolling hills in Tallahassee. At Westminster Oaks, every residence is maintenance-free, so you can take a wellness class in the fitness center, savor a chef-prepared meal, or enjoy the many walking and biking paths nearby instead of keeping up with your home. You’ll love the wide variety of spacious residences available, all with great services and amenities to enhance your lifestyle, like housekeeping, scheduled transportation and 24-hour security. Best of all, you’ll find safety and security for the future with our full continuum of healthcare services, including Assisted Living, Nursing Care, Memory Care and more, should your needs change.

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BOOKS

WING MAN

Bird songs touched Frank Chapman’s heart

by STEVE BORNHOFT

How it is that a Motacilla alba came to hang out at Lake Elberta Park in Tallahassee is a mystery that will remain unsolved.

The bird, commonly known as the white wagtail, typically frequents parts of Eurasia and North Africa but is almost never seen in North America. The Apalachee Audubon Society deemed an appearance by an individual wagtail in Tallahassee last November a “mega-rarity.”

Reports of the wagtail traveled quickly, and birdwatching enthusiasts flocked to see the oddity at Lake Elberta — a manmade impoundment that lies within sight of Doak Campbell Stadium.

James Huffstodt of Tallahassee was among those folks who had to have a look. So, too, was a friend of his from Lake City.

“People came from all over,” said Huffstodt, in numbers that reminded him of the response generated by Pinky,

a flamingo that started showing up at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge after Hurricane Michael in 2018 and has remained a seasonal attraction ever since.

“Pinky has been photographed more times than a Hollywood starlet,” Huffstodt said. “At least we think it’s the same bird each year. Hard to know for sure. It doesn’t have a license plate.”

Huffstodt was an employee of the Illinois Department of Conservation in the 1980s when he observed his “spark

Biographer and birder James Huffstodt is a frequent visitor to Lake Elberta Park. Immediately behind him, birdhouses fashioned from gourds have attracted tree swallows.

↑ A white wagtail, a bird whose range is usually confined to Eurasia and North Africa, caused a stir when it showed up at Lake Elberta, where it was photographed by Eliza Hawkins.

bird,” a term reserved for the bird that first ignites in a person a serious interest in avian life.

On assignment to write a story for Illinois Outdoor Highlights magazine, Huffstodt traveled with a professor from the Illinois Natural History Survey to a dam on the Mississippi River near Hamilton.

Eagles were making a comeback following the banning of the pesticide DDT, but Huffstodt had never seen one in the wild. Suddenly, he saw many.

“There were hundreds of bald eagles just below the dam,” he said. “Some were sitting on the ice floes staring at the water looking for fish. And their aerial displays, it was like the dogfights from World War I. It was mesmerizing, and I was fascinated. That hooked me.”

In 1986, Huffstodt moved south and went to work for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at its West Palm Beach office. He will never forget his first trip to the Everglades with its glorious wading birds.

The pioneering ornithologist and founder of the Christmas bird count, Frank Chapman, was similarly affected when he first experienced Florida and its fauna. He had grown up in New Jersey near an area of cliffs known as the Palisades and was first attracted to birds there by their songs.

Chapman’s mother maintained a winter home in Gainesville. Newly committed to making a living doing bird study, he arrived there with plans to catalog the birds of Central Florida.

Within walking distance of his mom’s place, he encountered an area “alive with birds and ducks. Coots and heron were apparently common. A pair of pileated woodpeckers with flaming crests were pounding away in a tree above my head. With them were hundreds of flickers and one red-bellied woodpecker. Hundreds of birds flew from tree to tree. Truly, I was in an ornithologist’s paradise.”

The Jersey boy was hooked on Florida.

Annually, Chapman made trips to Florida. In 1890, he floated the then pristine Suwanee River with his idol William Brewster, a founder of the American Ornithological Union. So wild was the terrain that Chapman, Brewster and other members of the party were confident that they would see an ivory-billed woodpecker, already endangered and also known as the Lord God Bird.

“I knew its voice the moment its loud yap-yap fell on my ears,” Chapman would recall. “Then followed memorable moments as I stalked it through the cypress trees until, unbelievable glory, it was actually in hand. … I never met up with this species again.”

Chapman made a skeleton of the bird for display at the American Museum of Natural History, where he worked for decades. These were the days

of shotgun ornithology. Cameras were primitive and cumbersome, and birds wouldn’t sit still for a portrait. Binoculars and spotting scopes weren’t nearly as powerful as they are today.

The only way to closely inspect a bird was to take a specimen. Moreover, scientists including Chapman were convinced of a need to harvest birds for preservation by museums because they were sure to disappear from the wild before long, they believed.

To be sure, plume hunters all but eliminated wading birds in Florida. They made good money supplying milliners with feathers for women’s headwear.

In an effort to save the last breeding population of brown pelicans on Florida’s East Coast, Chapman successfully lobbied President Theodore Roosevelt to establish Pelican Island in the Indian River Lagoon as the nation’s first federal bird sanctuary.

Chapman was emerging as a pioneering conservationist of national import.

Huffstodt became aware of Chapman when he happened upon a copy of Camps and Cruises of an

its

was among the first

to use cameras for study in the field, and in 1900, he published the first American book on the subject, Bird Studies With a Camera. In so doing, he helped bring an end to the era of shotgun ornithology.

↑ TOP PHOTO: Frank Chapman, with his binoculars at the ready, took notes during a stay at the Panama Canal Zone’s Tropical Research Institute. Chapman spent a dozen winters there, studying the behavior of tropical birds.

↑ LOWER PHOTO: A bird perched on one of Frank Chapman’s cameras appears ready for

close-up. Chapman

ornithologists

PHOTOS BY DAVE BARFIELD (HUFFSTODT AND BOOK), ELIZA HAWKINS / APALACHEE AUDUBON SOCIETY AND COURTESY OF AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (CHAPMAN AND BIRD ON CAMERA)

Ornithologist at a used book store in Fort Lauderdale. Chapman wrote the book in 1909.

With interests that include history in addition to birds, Huffstodt resolved to write a book about Chapman after discovering that there existed no full-length biography of the man. He began researching Chapman’s life in 1998, and 24 years later, he published The Man Who Loved Birds, which is available online at Amazon and in Tallahassee at Midtown Reader and Tallahassee Native Nurseries. Huffstodt, who moved to Tallahassee from South Florida 19 years ago, traces Chapman’s evolution from shotgunner to “evangelist for the birds.” What emerges is a portrait of a man who deserves wider recognition for his daring and his caring. Chapman put his life at risk for the sake of South American birding

↑ TOP PHOTO: Frank Chapman, in 1901, managed to take an early selfie by fashioning a shutter release cord from materials he harvested from a bicycle pump. Chapman is tucked inside a shed on which an osprey had built a nest. The photo is from Long Island, New York. LOWER PHOTO of white pelicans was taken by Chapman during a visit to California in 1903. James Huffstodt’s interest in birds was sparked when he observed bald eagles on an ice floe in the Illinois River.

expeditions, one of which resulted in his temporary blindness owing to a case of “relapsing fever.” Chapman’s mission, finally, was to foster an appreciation for birds among people.

It’s Huffstodt’s mission, too. He is at his most poignant when he speculates as to observations Chapman may have made when making his life’s last bird walk on Nantucket Island off Cape Cod.

“In the eye of the imagination, we picture Chapman bundled against the chill, his hat pulled down tight on his head. He stares toward the Atlantic Ocean in the twilight. Perhaps he saw a frigatebird in flight or some other great wandering seabird. Walking from the beach

to his lodging, perhaps he noticed a snowy owl.” TM

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↑ Dr. Frank M. Chapman, then 75, is pictured in the backyard of his longtime Coconut Grove winter cottage. Beginning in 1885, he usually spent all or part of each winter conducting field trips and photographing birds in Florida. At various times, he wintered in Gainesville, Ormond Beach, Biscayne Bay, Indian River and finally, Coconut Grove where a neighbor and friend was author Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

THE BIRDS AND THE BEES

by LIS KING

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HOW TO GET STARTED

An eco-friendly garden starts with a plan and small steps toward your goal; don’t feel like you have to do it all at once. Georges suggests simply putting trees in your yard and then building beds of native wildflowers around them. Her garden checklist is simple.

❏ Determine if the garden is in sun or shade.

❏ Check whether the soil is dry, average, moist, sandy, clay or loam.

❏ Include native host plants for local butterflies and moths, selecting a few for each bloom period.

❏ Include native grasses to increase biodiversity, habitats for bees and winter interest.

Did you enjoy a bracing cup of coffee this morning? And perhaps a glass of orange juice? If so, you should send kind thoughts to the bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and the pollinators that keep the food chain going.

Better still, start catering to them with your garden.

It isn’t difficult, and you’ll be rewarded with lovely blooms, less maintenance, fascinating wildlife and the knowledge that you’re helping preserve the natural world.

One of the easiest ways to grow an ecofriendly garden is by favoring native plants as opposed to what horticulturists call “exotics” — imported plants that are harmful to local ecosystems.

“I like to think of native flowering plants as gas stations for bees,” said Elizabeth Georges, one of the passionate eco-warriors at Native Nurseries, Tallahassee. “And I think of native trees as bird feeders. We need homeowners to understand and accept that the choices we make as gardeners can profoundly impact the diversity of life in our yards and communities. Homeowners everywhere can actually turn their yards into conservation corridors that provide wildlife habitats.”

THE BEST NATIVES

Georges recommends homeowners start their earth-conscious garden with plants from the keystone species.

“Without Keystone plants,” said Georges, “the local food web may fall apart.”

Keystone species are a category of native plants with a disproportionately large effect on the abundance and diversity of other species — including insects — in the ecosystem.

Native perennial sunflowers, goldenrods and asters are all keystone wildflowers. Keystone shrubbery includes native viburnum, elderberry, holly, Virginia sweetspire and blueberry.

Oaks are the No. 1 tree species in terms of biodiversity, supporting up to 557 butterfly and moth types.

According to Georges, there are a variety of oaks native to Tallahassee, and their acorns and nuts provide essential food for wildlife.

In addition to keystone species, some excellent natives to plant are Indian Pink and ox-eye sunflowers; butterflies and bees love those.

Native plants don’t just provide food for insects, they also adapt well to the weather extremes typical of Northern Florida. It’s sensible to grow native plants instead of exotic plants that originate from foreign soils and climates.

“It’s much easier to grow plants that naturally prefer your site conditions instead of trying to change the soil structure or keep an unhappy plant alive,” explained Georges. TM

❏ Provide water every day for the first few weeks after planting.

❏ Avoid fertilizers and pesticides.

If in doubt about anything, you’ll find help at Native Nurseries or the extension offices of Florida State University. Native Nurseries advises customers six days a week and also teaches classes throughout the year.

Evan H. Anderson of Florida State University recommends checking in with the extension services in Leon or Walton counties, which offer classes, newsletters and online guides for creating indigenous gardens. He also recommends checking out fnps.org/ plants for Florida Native Plant Society’s plant finder.

“The website lets you put in your location and plant requirements, such as sunlight, water or soil types,” he explains. “Then it will list native plants that do well in those conditions.”

↑ Flowering shrubs like this viburnum attract pollinators such as butterflies, bees and hummingbirds that keep the food chain going. An easy way to grow an eco-friendly garden is by favoring native plants versus what horticulturists call “exotics” — imported plants that may harm local ecosystems.

EXTERIORS

TIMELESS TREASURES

Upcycling old furniture

by LIS KING

For decades, the brown furniture of our parents’ and grandparents’ homes sat unloved in thrift shops or was dumped in landfills. Even good antiques only saw appeal from dedicated collectors.

But all that has changed. Now, vintage furnishings are being updated and proudly displayed all over social media.

The change was brought about by a convergence of events.

First, pandemic lockdowns caused many homebound to reconsider their surroundings. When choosing ways to revamp lived spaces, orderers face lengthy delivery dates on new furniture.

Secondly, environmental concerns kicked in; dumping 10 million tons of furniture a year in landfills no longer seemed acceptable.

Thirdly, inflation hit, making us a nation of price tag watchers.

According to designer Jenna Mann of Decorating Dilemmas, Tallahassee is all in and embracing the used furniture trend. She routinely shops estate sales and online sites for pieces that deserve a makeover and will fit her clients’ homes.

While many designers usually recommend avoiding upholstered pieces, Mann is unafraid.

Reupholstering is one of her specialties, and she admits to enjoying giving a tired old sofa or chair an up-to-date look while still preserving its good bones.

“I’m especially attracted to upholstered chairs with prettily turned legs,” she said. “I also look out for great tables and

↑ Jenna Mann of Decorating Dilemmas in Tallahassee finds that upcycled vintage furniture such as this desk, armchair and side table is comfortable and familiar. “And, let’s face it,” she said, “the quality of vintage furniture surpasses that of most new furniture.”

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→ Designer Anna Osborne of Studio A Interiors recommends always holding out for quality. “Ask yourself if the piece of furniture looks cheap or is a solid piece that’s just outdated,” she said. “If it looks dated, reupholstering, staining and new hardware can bring it into the here and now.”

cabinets and give them whatever TLC they need. Upcycled vintage furniture suits so many homes — it’s comfortable and relatable. And, let’s face it, the quality of vintage furniture surpasses that of most new furniture.”

VINTAGE 101

Used furniture hunters can find treasures at thrift shops; neighborhood, yard and estate sales; antique emporiums; auctions; and online sites, such as eBay — though buying from nearby sources is the eco-friendly way to go.

Consider one’s trash as another’s treasure. That might seem tacky, but realtors say they’re amazed at how many people will leave perfectly good furniture at the curb rather than transporting it to a new house.

Designer Anna Osborne of Studio A Interiors, recommends always looking for quality.

“Ask yourself if the piece of furniture looks cheap or is a solid piece

UPCYCLING GUIDELINES

that’s just outdated,” she said. “If it looks dated, reupholstering, staining and new hardware can bring it into the here and now.”

The size of each piece should also be taken into consideration. Consider

1. PACE YOURSELF Don’t tackle something huge on your first go. It will seem daunting to you, and you are more likely to give in and give up half way through. Start small, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with knowing that no matter how small, you made it yours.

2. HAVE FUN Upcycling is supposed to be fun. Don’t shy away from a project, but avoid touching up expensive or sentimental pieces until you’ve practiced on similar surfaces and can approach them with confidence. Instead, revamp dated furniture around the home,

whether new-to-you furniture will be a good fit for your home. Mix intricate pieces with heavier items. Osborne also recommends mixing metals — but never more than three types in the same room.

or check out a local secondhand shop — you might just discover a bargain.

3. PREPARE Give yourself the time and space to complete a project. Make sure you have all the tools you’ll need before you start.

4. PRIME An old or secondhand piece is likely to have been treated in the past with coatings that may contaminate your new paint or varnish, causing a reaction and an upcycle fail. In most cases, prepare the surface with a primer. Depending on the paint you use and the surface you are painting, you may not have to use a primer,

but a light sanding is always recommended. Just remember to wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth before you start work.

5. WHERE WILL YOUR PIECE LIVE? Thinking about how the upcycled piece will fit into the color scheme and decor of an existing room will help you figure out the color, finish and accessorizing needed to make the furniture stand out while simultaneously complementing a room.

6. FIND INSPIRATION There are oodles of tutorials, guides and brilliant bloggers to discover and learn from.

RUST-OLEUM, whose product lines include brush and spray paints, offers on its website six tips for making the most of an upscaling experience.

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“Go for pieces you find beautiful and meaningful,” she continued. “You’ll love the soft and lived-in feel they’ll give a room.”

ANTIQUE HOW-TOS

Paul Shalako, owner of Memory Lane Antiques in Tallahassee, is in agreement with Osborne — go for quality.

“Be it Victorian, Mid-Century Modern or Americana, check for sturdiness and good bones,” he said. “If the quality is there, the piece will hold its value.”

Shalako also believes these quality pieces have soul.

“They mix well with modern pieces and create great personal style,” he added. “Even homeowners living in a newly built house want one-of-a-kind pieces to warm up their spaces to balance the newness.”

Antique furniture also comes with a history and a story to tell.

Shalako has an antique worktable dating back to 1750 that was used for the ritual of keeping candles and wicks in good order. The table has a small drawer for the lighting tools, and Shalako calls it the perfect end table.

“In fact, you might call it the forerunner of the end table,” he said.

When considering reupholstering, Osborne has a word of warning.

“Use a professional upholsterer,” she advised. “The fabric can be a print, solid or texture as long as it doesn’t compete with the shape or form of the furniture. Otherwise, you could sacrifice the charm of the original piece.” TM

↑ Vintage furniture “mixes well with modern pieces and creates great personal style,” says Paul Shalako of Memory Lane Antiques in Tallahassee. “Even homeowners living in a newly built house want one-of-a-kind pieces to warm up their spaces to balance the newness.”

Chase and Keith McNeill

GREEN SCENE

ADORABLE DESTRUCTORS

Gardens become a squirrel buffet

by LES HARRISON, UF/IFAS EXTENSION AGENT EMERITUS

Summer is a challenging time for the home landscape and anyone attempting to manage the situation.

Ornamentals and vegetable plants may mysteriously be clipped off and left to die by an unknown perpetrator. Before becoming disheartened, the answer is likely as close as the nearest tree.

Among poachers of autumn nuts, Tallahassee residents most recognize the common gray squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis. It collects nuts and acorns in the fall and buries them in caches for later use.

As the weather warms, nut deposits rot or germinate, so the squirrels must seek alternative meals.

Squirrels are adventurous eaters, and the list of potential

menu items on this rodent’s diet is wide and varied. They may sample foliage or a vegetable, then change their mind with only one bite gone. They are known to pull up small, shallow-rooted plants while searching for culinary satisfaction, potentially destroying an entire row of plants. Even water hoses and other garden implements are not safe.

Squirrels must constantly grind down their ever-growing front teeth, so handy hardgoods are an easy choice. Witnessing them in the act of destruction is difficult even though squirrels are most active during the early and late parts of the day.

Attempts at control can be frustrating as chemical repellents are a hit-or-miss proposition and will be washed away with the first rain. Trapping requires specialized equipment and skill but may leave the squirrel in an indisposed state. Home remedies, such as hair from a barbershop or a rubber snake, offer limited success; the squirrels quickly adjust to the changes.

A protective barrier or netting may provide the best protection. Once the squirrels are frustrated, they will depart, at least for a while.

Summer Tree Tips

As the summer storm season progresses, homeowners may benefit from these tips to help assess potential problems with trees.

➸ MUSHROOMS growing on or very near trees is an indicator the tree has a serious health issue. While the fungi are not the cause of the problem, they are a sign of decaying wood. Consult an arborist to assess the situation and determine the best plan of action.

➸ PITCH TUBES on a pine tree may indicate an infestation of pine borers. These beetles will attack dead or living pines, and their presence is a threat to all pines in proximity of the infested tree.

➸ GUTTERS on homes and outbuildings becoming clogged with leaves and tree debris can cause damage to the structure that is frequently irreversible. Limb removal — or possibly removal of the entire tree — may alleviate the problem. Consult a certified arborist for best solutions.

HUNGRY CATERPILLAR

Don’t be fooled by the bright colors of this summer moth. The Io moth, Automeris io, is a large moth native to the area. Choice meal sites for the developing Io moth caterpillars include oaks, sweetgums, redbuds and ash. The eggs are commonly laid in clusters of 20 or more, and the caterpillars go through five development stages before reaching adulthood. Unlike the parents, which are active almost exclusively at night, the larvae spend their days hidden in the tree leaves they are consuming. These caterpillars are quite animated and active, frequently seen moving in line from one feeding site to another. Throughout their life cycle, they will change from an orange color to lime green as they mature. They also develop strategically placed clusters of spines across their plump bodies. Each spine contains a sac filled with the defensive solution to protect against predators. When contact is made with the hollow spines, the fragile structure breaks and releases the toxin. The pain is almost instantaneous, intense and can be a serious health threat for those who have an allergic reaction. If encountering one of these caterpillars, recognition, retreat and avoidance are the best strategies.

Les Harrison is a retired University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Wakulla County extension director.

Spacious One-story Stunner

This beautiful, five-bedroom, fourbathroom home built in 2023 in a gated community is nestled on 22+ acres in Northeast Tallahassee. With plenty of space to relax and take in the gorgeous view, this onestory, open-floor plan home has lots of storage, an oversized threecar garage, large bedrooms and beautiful millwork. The floorplan has flex space for either a fifth bedroom or a bonus room plumbed for a small kitchenette if needed. This home has many upgraded details and features.

SOLD PRICE: $1,400,000

ADDRESS:

9293 White Blossom Way

SQUARE FOOTAGE: 4,300

BEDROOMS: 5

BATHROOMS: 4

YEAR BUILT: 2023

FEATURES: Spacious new build on 22 acres in a gated community.

APPEAL: Located close to one of Tallahassee’s treasures, Bradley’s Country Store. The perfect home for all your entertaining needs.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Joy Blomeley, (850) 491-5093, joyblomeley@comcast.net

Coldwell Banker Hartung

PROFES SI ONAL PROFILES

Tallahassee is a wonderful place to live and work largely because of the businesses and companies that keep it thriving. We entrust the business professionals in our community with helping us make financial, health care, economic, personal and promotional decisions. Choosing the right company to trust is essential. In this special section of Tallahassee Magazine, we profile selected, highly regarded professionals who have proven accountable, dependable, trustworthy and dedicated to improving the lives of those they assist. Turn the pages to meet them.

Coldwell Banker Hartung

At Coldwell Banker Hartung, one generation of Realtors has given rise to another. Established in 1979, the firm is focused on real estate in Leon and surrounding counties. “It speaks to the sustainability and reputation of this company to have Realtors who are following in their family members’ footsteps, enabling us to continue serving what are now second generations of clients,” said Chip Hartung, owner of Coldwell Banker Hartung. Below, five second-generation Realtors provide some insight into why they entered the industry.

SHERRIE CARTEE, 40 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

As a child, Sherrie Cartee and her siblings named the streets in Killearn Acres. Her father is Bill Cartee, a developer of some of Tallahassee’s most influential neighborhoods including Killearn Acres, Lafayette Oaks, Winewood Office Complex, Meridian Hills and Northshire.

“As a little girl, I got to see Killearn go from dairy farms to what it is today,” Cartee said. “Watching much of this city being built from the ground up had an impact on me.” Her work in real estate began when her father died, and she and her brother Gray Cartee, inherited the Northshire subdivision. She was a partner and owner at Killearn Brokers Realty before dissolving it in 2010 and worked with another real estate company before joining Coldwell Banker Hartung.

LISA MONTGOMERYCALVERT, 31 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

Upon graduating from Florida State University, Lisa Montgomery-Calvert wasn’t sure what direction to head in professionally. Her father Ron Montgomery, a Realtor, suggested that she give real estate a try. At first, she thought that idea was crazy. Who would want to live off commissions for the rest of her life? But, for 31 years, that’s exactly what’s she’s happily been doing.

Sherrie Cartee

Lisa Montgomery-Calvert

Christie Perkins

When transitioning from a family-owned company after 23 years, Montgomery-Calvert was drawn to Coldwell Banker Hartung given its proven track record, highly regarded leaders and knowledgeable team.

“I believe generational agents bring a lot of history to the table,” Montgomery-Calvert said. “We bring the history of how and why things have been done, and we bring a style of professionalism that is not being taught anymore.”

CHRISTIE PERKINS, 20 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

At the urging of her Realtor father Chip Perkins, Christie Perkins has entered many crawl spaces dressed in a pencil skirt and heels. He advised her to always learn the ins and outs of a home. Doing so would help her thoroughly introduce clients to homes via showings or an inspection report.

With such vast knowledge, it only made sense for her to

pursue a position with a real estate agency that hires the most experienced Realtors.

“My dad laid the groundwork that made me realize it was possible to have a career in this difficult industry,” Perkins said. “He taught me how to be ethical in real estate — to think about the people more than the property or the commission.”

JIM BROCKETT, 19 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

Upon graduating from Florida State University in 1988, Jim Brockett worked in California and Orlando before realizing that he missed Tallahassee. Upon returning home in 2004, he knew he wanted to work at Coldwell Banker Hartung where his mother Ann Brockett was once a managing broker.

He had witnessed firsthand how the agency garnered respect by hiring fulltime Realtors and catering to the client.

“This is a company that’s always willing to change and learn new things about the industry,” Brockett said. “In general, this role has taught me that I’m a people person. I’ll always be there for other’s needs first.”

CAROLINE WEISS, 18 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

As a Realtor, Caroline Weiss has followed in the footsteps of her mother, Priscilla Tharpe, and grandmother, Jolene Strickland. In many ways, Weiss’s mother, who is currently a Realtor at Coldwell Banker Hartung, has served her as a role model. She seeks to follow her example as a Realtor, community servant, wife and mom.

Weiss often consults her mother when she needs to put things in perspective or is dealing with a particularly hard sale. Mom always reminds her what matters most.

“While real estate has changed a lot in the past 50 years, it is fundamentally still about building relationships and finding customers their next home,” Weiss said.

Additional generational Realtors include: Angelo Cicatello (son) / Chris Cicatello (mother), Brandon Chason (son) / Karen Chason (mother) and Joy Blomeley (daughter) / Anna Gallagher (late mother).

COLDWELL BANKER HARTUNG HAS BEEN FULFILLING THE DREAM OF HOME SINCE 1979.

Jim Brockett

Caroline Weiss and Priscilla Tharpe

Brooks Law

As family law attorneys, Olivia Brooks and her father Joseph Brooks are dedicated to bringing about positive outcomes for families faced with difficult times.

As a practice, they concentrate in all aspects of family law including divorce, child support, parenting plans, paternity, equitable distribution, spousal support, domestic violence injunctions, court orders, appeals and more. Joseph

Brooks also specializes in medical malpractice litigation.

Inspired by her father, who has practiced law in Tallahassee for more than 30 years, Olivia Brooks decided to pursue a law degree at Florida State University. While in school, she gravitated to family law.

“Family law is hard because it’s emotionally charged, but seeing clients happy and healing as a result of a case in their favor makes it all worthwhile for everyone,” Brooks said. “Getting good outcomes for families is what I consider success, whether that means taking a case all the way to trial or settling in mediation.”

Brooks seeks to create comfortable, trusted and respectful relationships with her clients. She and her paralegal, Dawn Duggan, are committed to thoroughly informing and educating clients and, most importantly, closely listening to them.

Brooks makes certain that no details are overlooked and that all client concerns are addressed in a timely manner.

Brooks’ assets include skill in predicting outcomes, the ability to provide clients with sound advice based on legal precedents and her own growing body of experience. She also enjoys doing appellate work for family law cases.

“My intention is always to make the best decisions for each family, not only in the present, but for many years to come,” Brooks said.

Joseph Brooks and Olivia Brooks

CAMPUS USA Credit Union

CAMPUS USA Credit Union is a people helping people type of business. As a not-forprofit cooperative, they are owned by their members to best serve the interests of their members. With 18 service centers in North Central Florida, they serve over 100,000 member-owners as a full service financial cooperative offering a multitude of consumer and business services — such as checking and savings accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, investment services and more. Their shared vision is to empower their employees to make a positive difference in the financial lives of their members and in the communities they serve.

WHAT SETS YOUR BUSINESS APART?

At CAMPUS, you’re not just a member — you own the place. Profits are returned to member-owners in the form of no-and low-fee financial services and best-of-market rates on deposits and loans. Since our members own CAMPUS, we can never be bought, nor can we merge with another institution without our members’ approval.

WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO MAKE ON THE COMMUNITY? We want to be seen as a committed partner in the communities we serve. CAMPUS invests hundreds of thousands of dollars every year — these funds are donated directly

to local organizations that impact the community in a positive way.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE CUSTOMERS GAIN FROM INTERACTING WITH YOUR COMPANY? Most members are surprised that when they bank with us, it feels more like being a part of a big family rather than just “banking.” We hope our members always call us first when making big financial decisions — that’s why we’re here.

MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW THIS  BUT … CAMPUS started like many small businesses — by a group of people who wanted to make a difference. The Credit Union started with nine members who each bought a $5 share account, which is the same price as a “share” today when a member opens an account.

From left to right: Kristi Holland, Service Center Manager (Killearn); Alex Gonzalez, Service Center Manager (Governor’s Crossing); Traci Poucher, Regional Manager; Kendalyn Gordon, Service Center Manager (Mahan).

Capital City Bank DON MAY, PRESIDENT LEON, GADSDEN AND WASHINGTON COUNTIES

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO PURSUE YOUR CAREER? My father, Ben May, was a banker with Capital City Bank for 30 years. Growing up, I saw how much he loved what he did for his career and that got me interested. I figured if he loved it that much, it must be a great career. As a second-generation Capital City banker and Tallahassee native with more than 30 years of management and banking experience, what I love the most about what I do is people — whether it be the clients we get to help or the associates I get to work with, the interaction and chance to make a difference is what motivates me day to day.

WHAT SETS YOUR COMPANY APART IN THE INDUSTRY? The Capital City name is absolutely an important brand and a legacy in Tallahassee. Capital City Bank has played a significant role in Tallahassee’s history on many levels, including helping businesses and people or supporting community projects, since 1895. We also offer a full

range of financial products and services, including deposits, loans, investments, trust services, strategic wealth planning and retirement planning. Capital City Bank can guarantee clients will be treated with respect and be valued. The chance to help clients realize their goals, either personally or with their business, and making an impact are all the best parts of working for Capital City.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS?

Getting to coach and mentor new or young associates and watching clients grow ideas

into successful ventures are some of my proudest achievements.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU/ YOUR COMPANY? Capital City Bank recently celebrated 128 years in business. We continue to focus on growing in the many markets we serve and always strive to be leaders in our industry and in the communities we call home.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS? I believe it doesn’t matter what you do personally or professionally as long as you build a reputation for fairness, honesty and reliability. If you possess these traits, you are successful.

Naumann Group Real Estate, Inc.

The desire among growing numbers of people to live in Northwest Florida is intensifying, and The Naumann Group Real Estate, Inc. is keeping up with the momentum.

The Naumann Group is the only locally owned real estate company with five offices spanning Tallahassee, the Emerald Coast, 30A and the surrounding areas of St. George Island, Apalachicola and Franklin County.

“We’ve grown to fit the needs of our clients, and much of that need includes being able to help them easily facilitate transactions between markets,” said Jason Naumann, owner and broker with The Naumann Group. “We keep growing in order to remain committed to the people that have helped us become successful.”

For example, Naumann may have a client that resides in Tallahassee year-

round who purchased a rental home in Destin and is now interested in an investment property in St. George Island. Naumann and his staff of 40 full-time Realtors, who intimately know local demographics, collaborate to find the right properties for clients.

The Naumann Group provides residential and commercial services, and in the last few years, has added the development and building of neighborhoods.

In 2020, The Naumann Group introduced the first active adult community, Camellia Oaks, to Tallahassee, and it quickly sold out. Naumann’s sights are now set on a Freeport neighborhood, Owl’s Head. In March of 2023, the first phase, including 250 of a total of 600 homesites, were completed.

Naumann, who is constantly watching market trends, noted growth in Freeport and wanted to provide high-quality,

affordable housing to meet the demands of the region.

“We have a wide reach geographically while still being very hands-on with that small boutique firm feeling,” said Naumann. “We are a close-knit, effective and synergetic team that welcomes each of our clients into that team perspective and energy.”

MillCreek Financial Consultants

ROBBIE KINNEY, PARTNER, WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISOR

AUSTIN ENGLAND, CDFA®, WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISOR

People often are reluctant about seeking financial advice. They may fear that they are going to be subjected to a hard sell by the consultant or they may feel their own knowledge is inadequate. MillCreek Financial Consultants works to alleviate both of those concerns.

MillCreek distinguishes itself from other financial planning providers by prioritizing education and understanding over selling a catalog of products and services. Once your financial situation and intentions are understood, they seek to pair you with the products best suited for your situation.

MillCreek Financial Consultants offers services that span life insurance, IRAs, retirement planning, investments, financial management business planning, stock portfolios and more.

“Most companies operate as financial sales people but when you come into our office, we know nothing about you, so we don’t want to sell you anything until we take a comprehensive, macroeconomic approach to look at anything and everything that could impact you,” said

Robbie Kinney, partner and financial advisor with MillCreek Financial

Consultants. “We protect clients first, then invest their money.”

Kinney acknowledges that most people are not equipped with proper knowledge pertaining to financial matters. They may rely on family, friends or the internet for advice. Kinney works to educate clients so they gain the confidence they need to take ownership of financial decisions.

“We are process oriented rather than product oriented,” said Austin England, financial advisor with MillCreek. “We love seeing those lightbulb moments when clients understand how the products we recommend benefit them.”

England is one of the few certified divorce financial analysts in Northwest Florida. He

applies his knowledge of asset distribution, tax law, short-term planning and long-term planning in helping people arrive at ways to fairly divide property and other assets.

MillCreek’s professionals work together to find answers and solutions for clients. Should they need assistance, MillCreek brings in attorneys, CPAs or other professionals rather than referring clients to another company.

Whether you’re seeking financial advice because you’re starting a family or approaching retirement, the MillCreek team will guide you when you’re ready to invest. It believes in conversing with clients to determine where they are and where they want to be.

Austin England, CDFA®

Robbie Kinney

Synovus

The word synovus unites synergy and “novus,” which is Latin for new. The synergistic team at Synovus Bank works to bring new, innovative ideas to the world of banking. Synovus began in 1888 with a simple act of kindness. They believe people are at the heart of every company’s success, and for nearly 135 years, they have helped business customers achieve their financial goals.

Synovus Financial Corp., with approximately $62 billion in assets, provides the latest in technology, resources and security to its customers at 245 locations in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and South Carolina.

The company is at the forefront of digital banking and customized solutions. At the same time, branch personnel focus on the unique needs of individual customers, fostering meaningful and lasting relationships.

“We exist for the customers, which is why it’s important that we are communityoriented, and we get to know our clients while still having the backing to prove their money is safe and secure,” said Bill Moore, market president in Tallahassee.

Each Synovus team member carries around a card with the company’s customer covenant, a reminder that the goal each day is meeting customer needs.

Synovus Bank consistently appears on the Forbes list of America’s best banks.

In 2022, it won 20 Greenwich Excellence Awards in banking. Further, it is certified as a Great Place to Work.

Each quarter, the Tallahassee branch selects a community program to support while also emphasizing team bonding and connection. Internally, the company set a goal to ensure that 40 percent of leadership positions are held by women by the end of 2024. This goal was met ahead of schedule as currently, half of the leadership positions company-wide are now held by women.

Whether it be a smile from the teller at the drive-thru, the ease of an online transaction or a meeting with a financial advisor in planning for your future, Synovus intends to be exactly what you desire from a financial institution.

“We live in a world of paralysis from analysis, and many people are seeking experts,” said Moore. “In banking, you need a relationship with a trusted advisor, and that’s what Synovus is to our customers.”

Greg Nichols, Retail Market Manager; Tina Darnell, Retail Market Leader; Bill Moore, Market Executive; Chattie Winton, Commercial Banker; Jeff Askins, Financial Advisor, Synovus Securities Inc.; Brooke Couillette, Retail Market Manager; Chase Antonio, Retail Market Manager

Investment products and services are provided by Synovus Securities, Inc., a member FINRA/SIPC and an SEC Registered Advisor. Investments are not FDIC insured, are not deposits of or other obligations of Synovus Bank, are not guaranteed by Synovus Bank and involve investment risk, including possible loss of principal amount invested. Synovus Securities, Inc. is a subsidiary of Synovus Financial Corp. and an affiliate of Synovus Bank.

Capital City Trust Company

MIKE DASHER, WEALTH ADVISOR

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY?

Hands down, the culture is the best reason to work at Capital City. Capital City is a place where one can feel welcome, flourish as an individual and grow their career. It motivates me to be part of a team of associates working together to accomplish something significant for our clients. It is also rare to work at a company that employs so many experienced professionals who have been here for more than 20, 30 and 40 years!

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO PURSUE THIS CAREER?

My passion is to help people achieve their goals and dreams in life. Finance is such a big part of our daily lives and impacts us today, but also affects our loved ones for generations. Building relationships and connecting our clients to the talented team I work with at Capital City is fun, and watching them flourish brings me great satisfaction.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU/YOUR COMPANY? I am

currently pursuing my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional credential at FSU, which is one of the most challenging certifications in financial planning today. It is a two-year extensive study on the principles of financial planning, risk management, investing, tax planning, retirement and income planning and estate planning.

JUL/AUG 2023

BEST OF TALLAHASSEE

TALLAHASSEE MAGAZINE’S TALLAHASSEE of

AUG.

→ Now in its fifth year, the Tallahassee Beer Festival continues to grow. The 2022 edition hosted over 2,500 patrons. More than 100 home brewers and breweries poured more than 200 fermentations of all kinds. This year looks to keep the momentum going. The Tallahassee Beer Festival offers unlimited sampling, food and entertainment options and the opportunity to do good by supporting the United Partners for Human Services.

For more information and for ticket purchases, visit TLHBeerFest.com.

Best of the Emerald Coast Winners Soirée

↓

The public is invited to attend the 25th annual Best of Tallahassee event, presented by Ox Bottom Animal Hospital. The intimate gathering will bring together the best businesses in the region as voted by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine. Enjoy an evening of entertainment, heavy hors d’oeuvres and more as we honor the businesses that make Tallahassee a great place to live.

→ The Best of Emerald Coast event is transitioning to become the Best of the Emerald Coast Winners Soirée, which will take place at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin in Miramar Beach. Unlike the festivalstyle events of previous years, winners will not be displaying or serving their products or services. Instead, the public is invited to attend an intimate gathering of the best businesses in the region as voted by the readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Attendees can expect an evening of entertainment, heavy hors d’oeuvres and, most importantly, celebrating this year’s winners. This year’s event will benefit the organization voted as Best Charity/Nonprofit in our 2023 readers choice poll.

For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/bestofec.

KNOW BEFORE YOU

HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE US TO CONSIDER? Send an email to sbornhoft@rowlandpublishing.com or promote an event at TallahasseeMagazine.com/local-events at no cost.

2023

REGIONAL OCT. 12

Pinnacle Awards

→ For the 10th year, 13 women will be selected to receive the Pinnacle Award, which recognizes women who have distinguished themselves professionally and who contribute to the betterment of their community. Honorees from throughout an 18-county region will be recognized in the winter issue of 850 Business Magazine, as well as during an event to be held in early 2024. Visit 850BusinessMagazine.com/pinnacle-awards to learn more.

CELEBRATE AMERICA

JULY 4

Head to Tom Brown Park for the City of Tallahassee’s Celebrate America event including live music and a patriotic fireworks display. There will be food trucks, adult beverages and children’s activities all evening. talgov.com/parks/july4

THOMASVILLE INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS

JULY 4

Join the City of Thomasville and CNSNext to celebrate the Fourth of July in Remington Park with a fireworks show. Bring your own chairs or blankets, and select a perfect spot from which to put your eyes on the skies. thomasvillega.com/calendar

INFINITY CON

JULY 8–9

This family-friendly comic book convention is back and better than ever in the Capital City this summer. Infinity Con will celebrate creativity with artists, writers, cosplayers, makeup and horror movie FX and more at the Tucker Civic Center. tuckerciviccenter.com/events/detail/ infinity-con-tallahassee

SWEENEY TODD

JULY 21–30

The Young Actors Theatre of Tallahassee presents the maniacal, murderous Sweeney Todd, demon barber of Fleet Street to thrill and chill in a musical performance. youngactorstheatre.com/box-office.html

FIRST FRIDAY SIP & SHOP

AUG. 4

Start your weekend off right by

sipping and strolling through the streets of Thomasville. Participating shops and restaurants will be open late, with live music from 8–10 p.m. thomasvillega.com

ABSTRACTO: LAND OF DREAMS, LESLIE ANDERSON

AUG. 10–SEP. 21

Lemoyne Arts presents

Abstracto: Land of Dreams by Leslie Anderson, an exhibit rich in color and texture used to create dreamy imagery and abstract figures that take the viewer on an imaginative journey.

visittallahassee.com/events/abstractoland-of-dreams-ft-leslie-anderson

SOUTHERN SOUL SUMMER JAM

AUG 12

Good times and good vibes will overtake the Tucker Civic Center during a Southern Soul Summer Jam featuring Tucka, Pokey Bear, Nelson Curry, Jeff Floyd, Kandy Janai, Sheila B. Sexi and more. tuckerciviccenter.com/events/detail/ southern-soul-summer-jam

GREATER SOUTHEASTERN HARMONICA CHAMPIONSHIPS

AUG. 19

The harmonica championships are back! Join in the fun at the House of Music on South Monroe Street as the best harmonica players from all over the Southeast take the stage. Categories include Showmanship, Technical, Acoustic, Amplified and Crowd Favorite. Doors open at 4 p.m. and sponsorships are available. For more information, contact Mike Lanigan at (850) 212-6683, and see our Facebook page for more information: facebook.com/TheBigBendBluesSociety.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Power of the Purse

FEB. 9 Women United, an affinity group of United Way of the Big Bend, hosted its Power of the Purse event on Feb. 9. The evening raised funds that are used to benefit children and families in need in our community. Women United provides women of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to invest their time, talents and treasure to improve lives.

1 Angie Sipple, Sarah Doolin Roy, Berneice Cox and Colleen McCarron Nixon

2 Angie Sipple, Berneice Cox, Jenny Blalock and Jeri Madden

3 Sara Noel Proctor, Jennifer Land, Darica Smith, Elizabeth Fearington, Suzanne Solomon

4 Ashley Leggett, Denise Wilson, Tim Hendry, Jennifer Anamoo, Missy Briggs, Christina Lynch, Mary Wellington, Jaynie Mitchell and Selby Proctor

Night at the Net

MAR. 2 Night at the Net is a communityled fundraiser that provides scholarship and performance funds for the FSU Women’s Tennis team. In its second year, Night at the Net took place on March 2 and raised over $65,000. Members of the event committee are grateful to all who came out and enjoyed a wonderful evening!

2 Front: Anna Arkadianou and Ellie Schoppe Back: Victoria Allen, Kianah Motosono, Olympe Lancelot, Merissa Carpentino, Mila Saric, Millie Bissett, Cade Cricchio, Krystyna Lavickova and Alice Amendola

3 Front: Sharon Fallon, Jennifer Hyde and Dent Ward Back: Scott Clemons, Jane Snyder, Susan Ragsdale, Kristina Reams, Sandy Hanna, Annie Kelly, Sandy Powell, Stacey Rodkey, Joni Macri, Linda Funderburke and Dreu Fontenot

PHOTOS BY RYALS LEE AND ROSS OBLEY

1 FSU Women’s Tennis Team with Kathleen and Doug Crosby (center), the winners of a trip to Hawaii in the live auction.

PHOTOS BY CHARLENE TRICKEY, TRICKEY DURHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Capital Cascades Trail

More Than Just Infrastructure

Connecting People to Places

A penny makes a big difference in Tallahassee-Leon County! Under the vision and direction of the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency Board of Directors, Blueprint is at the helm of the community’s most pressing infrastructure needs Blueprint builds roadways, trails, greenways, parks and stormwater projects that focus on connecting people to places. Committed to going above and beyond traditional infrastructure, Blueprint projects incorporate history, public art, and elements of play, maximizing the return on investment for the Tallahassee-Leon County community The Capital Cascades Trail between Adams Street and Lake Bradford Road is the perfect example.

This section of Capital Cascades Trail is a 1 5-mile urban corridor linking downtown Tallahassee to its Southside The Trail represents an over $68 million investment in transformative improvements, including enclosing a dangerous open stormwater ditch and turning it into a world-class linear park and multimodal trail It now hosts the Skateable Art Park, Coal Chute Pond Park, the History and Culture Trail, unique public spaces for community events, a playground, splash pad, and open green spaces to throw down a picnic blanket The Trail sits at the center of many destinations, including Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Florida State University, Railroad Square Art District and College Town

Blueprint worked directly with local communities, businesses and stakeholders for over a decade to develop the project, ensuring that authentic voices drove the overall project concept and content. Collaborative measures included partnerships with Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and citizen working groups As experienced by Tallahassee residents daily, this project goes beyond traditional infrastructure to create an extraordinary linear park enhancing the quality of life, sense of place and cultivating a vibrant economy.

The Capital Cascades Trail will be completed later this year. Stay connected for upda

SOCIAL STUDIES

Cleaver & Cork Signature Dinner

MAR. 4 Cleaver & Cork is a three-part culinary experience expertly put together by the Tallahassee Community College Foundation. In its eighth year, TCC welcomed award-winning chef, television personality, author and philanthropist Chef Michael Symon. TCC is passionate about creating opportunities for students to define and reach their educational and career goals. Cleaver & Cork helps to further elevate educational program opportunities, scholarships, and teaching and learning facilities. In 2023, all proceeds were reserved for student scholarships.

1 Kensy and Peter

2 Heather Mitchell, Martha Fletcher, Carlecia Collins, Chef Michael Symon, Jim Murdaugh, Angelica Santibanez and Cristal Cole

3 Chef Michael Symon with President Jim and Sara Murdaugh

4 Stephanie and Tom Derzypolski with Becky Hoppe

Capital Medical Society Celebration Awards Dinner

MAR. 30 The Capital Medical Society Celebration Awards Dinner was held in honor of Doctors’ Day and celebrated the profession of medicine. Two annual awards were presented. Faisal Munasifi, M.D,. received the 2023 I.B. Harrison, M.D,. Humanitarian Award, and Andrea Friall, M.D., received the 2023 Thomas L. Hicks, M.D., Outstanding Physician Award.

1 Camille Friall, Dr. Andrea Friall and Eric Friall

2 Seated, from left: Dr. Lynn Jones, Dr. Amy Neal and Dr. Ryan Curran. Standing, from left: Dr. Stanley Gwock, Dr. David Jones, Dr. Adekunle Omotayo, Dr. Christine Chiu-Geers, Dr. Mary Jane Tucker and Dr. Cielo Rose

3 Seated, from left: Joe Farenden, Dr. Sarah Ko and Pam Irwin; Standing, from left: Dr. Mark Wheeler, Dr. Alfredo Paredes, Dr. Helen Paulson, Dr. Russell Cole and Sandy Cole

4 Dr. Frank Skilling, Dr. Faisal Munasifi and Dr. Sarah Ko

PHOTOS BY BETSY BARFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Boulware

PHOTOS BY BETSY BARFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

SOCIAL STUDIES

Chain of Parks Art Festival

APR. 15–16 Visitors and sponsors at LeMoyne’s 23rd annual Chain of Parks Art Festival enjoyed a beautiful weekend, original fine art by 150 artists, live entertainment, 3-D chalk art, BetheArt photo ops, a variety of delicious food trucks, local craft beer, children’s art activities and more in the oak-lined downtown Chain of Parks on April 15 and 16.

PHOTOS BY BOB O’LARY, CHRISTEN PERRY AND POWELL K. KREIS

1 Carolyn and Bob Gosselin with Chicken Salad Chick, Festival Manager Powell K. Kreis, and Lorrie Mann

2 Cover artist Anne Hempel

3 Sponsors Janet Hinkle, Stephanie Whitfield and Katee Tully

Tallahassee Tennis Challenger

APR. 23 The 23rd Tallahassee Tennis Challenger took place April 17-23. Internationally ranked players in the Top 200 played for points and a purse of $80,000. The sold-out event marked 30 years of professional tennis in Tallahassee. The USTA recognized the event as the second longest-running tournament in the country currently. The 2024 event is scheduled for April 15-21.

PHOTOS BY RICK LIMPERT AND SUE AULT

1 Mom & Dad’s Restaurant provided dinner for Jeff and Leah Merschman and other Skybox and VIP Tent sponsors.

2 Back row: Pia Lehtonen, Kim Morphet, Farra Noel, Hanna Neustadter and Anne Davis Middle row: Jennifer Larson, Denean Sykes, Libby Thompson, Lori Willyoung, Cecilia Loeb and Sue Ault Front row: Karen Vogter holding USTA award for 30 years of professional tennis in Tallahassee.

3 Tournament Director Karen Vogter and Maria Yealdhall

4 Singles Champion Zizou Bergs (BEL) celebrating his win with the tournament ball kids.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Florida Public Relations Association Local Image Awards

APR. 27 The Capital Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) presented 16 awards honoring local public relations practitioners at its Local Image Awards ceremony on April 27. The Image Awards competition is conducted annually by FPRA to recognize outstanding public relations programs and to encourage and promote the development of public relations professionalism in the Big Bend region.

PHOTOS BY ALLEN ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

1 2023 PR Intern of the Year Asya Griffin with FPRA Capital Chapter president Holly Brooks

2 FPRA Capital Chapter leaders presented a donation and Certificate of Appreciation to Emmerson Young, director of bands at James S. Rickards High School (third from left)

3 Members of the James S. Rickards High School Marching Band

4 More than 70 people attended the FPRA Capital Chapter’s Local Image Awards ceremony on April 27.

Second Harvest Fish Fry

MAY 2 The fifth annual Fish Fry hosted by Virginia Glass to benefit Second Harvest was enjoyed by approximately 150 people who took time from their busy lives to enjoy food, fellowship and philanthropy. Approximately $9,000 was raised, making for a total of $75,000 since 2016. Proceeds assist children in the area to meet their nutritional needs.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SECOND HARVEST

1 Virginia Glass

2 Margie Fletcher and Martha Parker

3 Monique R. Ellsworth

4 Melanie Weaver Carr and Tyler Carr

• Cornea

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1260 Timberlane Road • (850) 893-8754 • ta-dallc.com

(continued from page 67)

For more information call (850) 224-0825 or visit our website gfwcwomansclubof t allahassee.or g

JIM AND AL

Branner checked into the Prince Murat Hotel on Monday, July 1, 1996, under the names “Jim and Al Branner.” The Tallahassee Democrat reported that he told the manager he was waiting for a friend.

That night, a middle-aged, white man between 5 feet, 7 inches and 5 feet, 10 inches with light-colored shoulderlength hair and a mustache reportedly asked passersby to light his cigarette outside Branner’s hotel room. The following afternoon, a housekeeper entered the room and saw blood on the bed. The bathroom door was locked. The hotel manager unlocked the door and pulled back the shower curtain far enough to see a man’s legs.

Branner was a father and local laborer who moved to Tallahassee from Virginia, likely looking for a fresh start. Lefferts was just passing through. Why their paths crossed that night is unknown. Able cannot speak to the suspect’s motives or other aspects of the case until the trial has commenced, but she conceded that it can be difficult to reconstruct events from so many years ago. At the time of this reporting, a trial date has not been set.

“A lot of records have been destroyed,” Able said. “Companies don’t keep them. If there was ever additional evidence, it’s usually gone by this point, and unfortunately, witnesses. A few of our witnesses are deceased. It definitely can be difficult.”

Despite these challenges, Able is confident that the physical evidence she has uncovered will lead to a conviction.

Initially, Lefferts’ efforts to avoid police made him difficult to locate, but eventually Jacksonville police and Able found the suspect living in Baker County. On May 31, 2022, Able and the officers from the Baker County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Lefferts at his home and took him into custody. He has been charged with first-degree murder.

“It was almost surreal to be sitting in the interview room with him knowing, ‘Oh my god. After all these years we are here; we’re speaking to you,’” Able said. “Just knowing that we were one step closer to being able to provide the family closure. We are here. We’re talking to him. He’s alive. This is it. We did it.”

Nestled among the oak trees at the entrance to Los Robles is a top venue for parties and events. Plan ahead and save on your next celebration!

PHOTO BY JENNIFER G PHOTOGRAPHY

dining guide

BREAKFAST & LUNCH

Wednesday-Friday 7:30am-1:30pm Saturday & Sunday 8am-1:30pm masdinertally

AMERICAN BACKWOODS CROSSING ★

(850)

765-1910

6668-9 THOMASVILLE ROAD

Sit down at this 2022 Best of winner for fresh gourmet food at Tallahassee’s farm-to-table, destination concept restaurant featuring locally caught and produced soft-shell crabs, sausage, duck and blueberries. 6725 Mahan Dr. (850) 765-3753. $$ L D

BAR 1903

★

Located in the historic Walker Library, Bar 1903 honors the history of mixology while pushing the boundaries of the cocktail experience. Small plates, snacks, bar sandwiches, sweets. Intimate setting, 36-seat capacity. Voted Best Bar and Best Martini/Cocktail for 2022. 209 E. Park Ave., (850) 354-9739. $$ D

CHARLIE

PARK

Tallahassee’s first rooftop cocktail experience offering small plates and shareables has an innovative and exciting menu built around plates to share and experience with others. The specialty craft cocktails are inventive, and the views of Tallahassee’s downtown and beyond are spectacular. 801 S. Gadsden St. (850) 759-4300. $$ D

DOG ET AL ★

Foot-long and veggie entrees alike grace this award-winning menu. Also ask about their incredibly valued family packs. 1456 S. Monroe St. (850) 222-4099. $ L D

THE EDISON

This relaxed, fine dining establishment is equipped with a beer garden, wine cellar, casual cafe, open-air alternatives and a gorgeous view that has become a Tallahassee favorite. 470 Suwannee St. (850) 684-2117. $$/$$$ B L D

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD ★

The name says it all! This restaurant boasts a palate-pleasing combination of personalized service, eclectic ambiance and award-winning cuisine and is the Best Desserts winner for 2017–22. 1950 Thomasville Rd. (850) 224-9974. $$ L D

HOPKINS’ EATERY ★

A Best of 2022 winner, Hopkins’ provides favorites such as the Ultimate Turkey, the Linda Special and a variety of salads to keep customers coming back. Multiple locations. Hours vary. $ L D

HOT BIRDIE’S CHICKEN

Serving chicken sandwiches made with the best available chicken breasts. Signature sauces, the Hot

Mess Cookie, Honey Slaw, Gooey Mac & Cheese, Spicy Pickles and seasoned breading are all housemade. Enjoy tasty waffle fries and signature milkshakes. Catering services available. 1898 Thomasville Rd. (850) 765-9184 $ L D

ISLAND WING COMPANY ★

Get baked! This 2022 Best of winner for Best Wings won’t serve you up greasy, fried wings; instead Island Wing bakes them fresh. 1370 Market St. (850) 692-3116. $ L D

JUICY BLUE

Located in the Four Points by Sheraton Downtown, this cool lobby restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Unique dishes include tapas with a twist, such as the Georgia peaches with caramel. 316 W. Tennessee St. (850) 422-0071. $ B L D

LIBERTY BAR AND RESTAURANT

Carefully crafted unique cocktails mixed with a gourmet menu that features fresh, local produce. 1307 N. Monroe, Unit No. 2. (850) 354-8277. $$ D

LOFTY PURSUITS ★

This old-fashioned soda fountain serves ice cream, milkshakes and candy — plus brunch dishes and a selection of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. 1355 Market St., A11. (850) 521-0091. $ B

OVERUNDER BAR + LOUNGE

Two experiences under one roof, OverUnder features specialty cocktails plus curated food and drink pairings. 1240 Thomasville Rd.(850) 597-7552.

$$

PROOF BREWPUB

Tallahassee’s first brewery, Proof’s brewpub in downtown offers shareables, such as sliders and fried oysters, plus burgers, sandwiches and tacos to pair with their tasty craft brews. 1320 S. Monroe St. (850) 577-0517. $$ D

R&R EATERY

Located in Hotel Indigo, R&R Eatery is a modern American restaurant with fresh takes on classic dishes and a mix of signature craft cocktails. 826 W. Gaines St. (850) 210-0008. $$ B D

SAGE RESTAURANT

Sage’s menu masterfully melds regional influences, including Southern and French. The setting is gorgeous but cozy, and the outdoor patio sets a charming, romantic tone for a relaxing evening. 3534 Maclay Blvd. (850) 270-9396.

$$$ B L D

TABLE 23 ★

This “Southern porch, table and bar” is cozied up among oak trees on one of Tallahassee’s favorite street corners.

Lucky Goat coffee-rubbed ribeye and Schermer pecan-crusted chicken are among the regional offerings. 1215 Thomasville Rd. (850) 329-2261. $$$ L D

UPTOWN CAFÉ

Specialties at the bustling, family-run cafe include apricot-glazed smoked salmon, oneof-a-kind omelets, banana bread French toast and flavorful sandwiches. 1325 Miccosukee Rd. (850) 219-9800. $ B L

VERTIGO BURGERS AND FRIES ★

Vertigo is home to some of the juiciest, funkiest burgers in town. The modern building provides a no-frills setting to enjoy such favorites as the Vertigo Burger — a beef patty served with a fried egg, applewood bacon, grilled jalapenos, sharp cheddar and Vertigo sauce. 1395 E. Lafayette St. (850) 878-2020. $$ L D

WALK-ON’S SPORTS BISTREAUX ★

Not your usual sports bar, this import from Louisiana offers seafood, traditional Cajun cuisine and burgers built for two hands — plus 40 beers on tap and wall-to-wall TVs for the big games. 3390 Capital Circle NE. (850) 597-7736. $$ L D

ASIAN

AZU LUCY HO’S

Enjoy an extensive array of classic dishes with a modern flare, including gyoza dumplings, crab rangoon, General Tso’s chicken and Szechuan beef, all in a

relaxed setting. 3220 Apalachee Pkwy., Ste. 13. (850) 893-4112. $$ L D

DAO RESTAURANT ★

Asian fusion restaurant and a Best of Tallahassee 2022 winner in the Best Asian category. Indulge in lobster, blue crab, spicy prawns, Peking duck or a grouper filet with mapo tofu. 3425 Bannerman Rd., (850) 999-1482. $$ L D

KIKU JAPANESE FUSION ★

From tempura to teriyaki and sushi to sashimi, Kiku Japanese Fusion, voted Best Sushi in 2022, fuses vibrant flavors with fresh ingredients. 800 Ocala Rd. (850) 575-5458, 3491 Thomasville Rd. (850) 222-5458. $$ L D

MASA

Masa’s menu offers a creative blend of Eastern and Western cuisines. 1650 N. Monroe St. (850) 727-4183. $/$$

OSAKA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR ★

Rated Best Hibachi for 2022, Osaka provides dinner and a show, with the chefs seasoning and preparing your meal right in front of you. 1489 Maclay Commerce Dr. (850) 900-5149. $$$ D

ROCK N ROLL SUSHI

This American-style sushi chain born in Mobile offers fresh rolls, salads and hibachi — all with a rock-and-roll theme. 1415 Timberlane Rd., #305. (850) 999-1748 $$ L D

BARBECUE

WILLIE JEWELL’S OLD SCHOOL BBQ ★

Platters, sandwiches or by the pound, Willie Jewell’s, the 2022 Best Barbecue

winner, offers smoked brisket, pork, turkey, sausage, chicken and ribs with a bevy of Southern sides. 5442 Thomasville Rd. (850) 629-4299. $ L D

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH/BAKERY

CANOPY ROAD CAFÉ ★

Traditional breakfasts, fluffy omelets, skillets, French toast and sweet potato pancakes keep customers coming back to this 2022 Best Breakfast winner. Canopy also goes all out on lunch favorites. Multiple locations. (850) 668-6600. $ B L

LUCKY GOAT COFFEE ★

Coffee roaster, wholesaler, distributor, online retailer and cafe serving high-quality beverages. Flavored coffees include pumpkin spice and Southern pecan. Best Coffee winner as voted by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine in 2022. Multiple locations including Bannerman Crossings.(850) 727-4769.

MA’S DINER

No one does it like Ma! Ma’s Diner serves family-style food in a family-friendly setting. Homestyle classics are served for breakfast and lunch with quick, attentive and friendly service. 6668-9 Thomasville Rd. (850) 765-1910. $ B L

REDEYE COFFEE

Serving locally roasted coffees, highquality teas and hand-blended cocoas. Also serving pastries, chocolates, platters and grazing boards. Committed to local-centric business practices and sustainability. 1122 Thomasville Rd. and 1196 Capital Circle NE. (850) 999-8278.

THE EGG CAFÉ & EATERY

When you’re looking for breakfast favorites, even if it’s lunchtime, The Egg is the place to be. Second location now open in Kleman Plaza. Multiple locations. (850) 907-3447. $$ B L

TASTY PASTRY BAKERY ★

Tallahassee’s original cakery and 2022

Best Bakery winner features fresh breads, bagels, pies, cakes and catering. Mon–Sat 6:45 a.m.–6 p.m. 1355 Market St., Ste. A-5. (850) 893-3752. $ B L D

CAJUN

COOSH’S BAYOU ROUGE ★

This Best Cajun Restaurant winner for 2022 brings a menu jam-packed with Louisiana-style dishes, including favorites like jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, po’boys and seafood gumbo. Multiple locations (850) 894-4110. $$ B L D

CATERING

CATERING CAPERS

Offering meals, bar services and more, Catering Capers makes entertaining and planning corporate events, weddings or private parties in Tallahassee easy. 2915 E. Park Ave., Unit 4. (850) 385-5953.

SIMPLY ENTERTAINING ★

The Best of Tallahassee Catering winner for 2022 as well as a coffee roaster, wholesaler, distributor, online retailer and cafe serving high-quality beverages. Serving as a “onestop shop” for intimate parties. Committed

to making events simple by taking care of everything. Also offering Simple Dinners on Tuesday and Thursday nights. 1355 Market St. (850) 668-1167.

ITALIAN/PIZZA

BELLA BELLA ★

Voted Best Italian in 2022, this locally owned and operated restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and serves all the classics to satisfy your pasta cravings. 123 E. Fifth Ave. (850) 412-1114. $$ L D

GAINES STREET PIES

Locally owned and open since 2012, Gaines Street Pies offers fresh ingredients and inventive pies, such as the Metal Mike with Sriracha. 603 W. Gaines St., (850) 765-9275; 1184 Capital Circle NE, (850) 329-2141; 1122 Thomasville Rd. (850) 765-4120. $$ L D

IL LUSSO ★

Homemade pasta, local seafood and a choice of prime steaks define this downtown fine dining experience. 201 E. Park Ave., Ste. 100. (850) 765-8620. $$$ D

LITTLE PARIS ★

Executive chefs Herve and Loic Alcesilas have reimagined casual French dining with an amazing menu and extensive French wine list. The brothers grew up in CharlevilleMezieres and began their careers in the same restaurant. In Tallahassee, they love providing unique flavors and experiences and were voted as having the Best Fine Dining restaurant in 2022. 1355 Market St. (850) 765-7457. $$ L D

MOMO’S ★

After devouring a slice “as big as your head” at this 2022 Best Pizza winner, chain pizza simply is not gonna cut it. Multiple locations. (850) 224-9808. $ L D

RICCARDO’S RESTAURANT

A Tallahassee tradition since 1999, Riccardo’s features savory Italian classics, from pasta and pizza to homemade subs and calzones — plus a wide-ranging selection of wines and craft brews. 1950 Thomasville Rd. (850) 386-3988 $$ L D

MEXICAN EL JALISCO ★

In the mood for sizzling enchiladas and frozen margaritas? Make your way to the 2022 Best Mexican/Latin American Restaurant, El Jalisco, where they do Mexican cuisine to perfection. Multiple locations. $ L D

THE IRON DAISY

Made-to-order Mexican food with a Florida flair, The Iron Daisy blends traditional cast-iron cooking with the funky vibe of the Arts District.

507 W. Gaines St. (850) 597-9997. $$ L D

MARIA MARIA

Fast casual restaurant serving homemade Mexican food. Named for owner Edgar Gomez’s mother and grandmother, Maria Maria never cuts corners — dishes are never prepped ahead of time. Choose the Taco Dorado, Maria’s Tostada or Chicken Mole and be assured that it has been created with the freshest ingredients.

1304 N. Monroe St., (850) 270-9057. $ L D

SEAFOOD/STEAK

CRAFTY CRAB

Offering the freshest seafood and most authentic recipes in the area, including crab, crawfish, calamari, lobster, oysters, mussels, scallops and more. 1241 Apalachee Pkwy. & 2226 N. Monroe St. (850) 671-2722. $$ L D

GEORGIO’S FINE FOOD & SPIRITS

George Koikos has over 50 years of experience in Tallahassee restaurants, and his hands-on commitment has made this upscale restaurant a local favorite featuring local seafood, prime steaks and banquet rooms for private parties. 2971 Apalachee Pkwy. (850) 877-3211. $$$ D

HARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE

Serving Southern, Cajun and Creole flavors in classic and modern dishes since 1987. Full bar is available at each location. 301 S. Bronough St., in Kleman Plaza. (850) 222-3976. $$ L D

SHULA’S 347

Located in Hotel Duval. Keep it light and casual with a premium Black Angus beef burger or a gourmet salad, or opt for one of their signature entrees — a “Shula Cut” steak. Reservations suggested. 415 N. Monroe St. (850) 224-6005. $$$ L D

SOUTHERN SEAFOOD ★

Whether you’re looking for fish, shrimp, oysters, scallops, crab or lobster, the 2022 Best Seafood Market winner brings the ocean’s freshest choices to Tallahassee.

1415 Timberlane Rd. (850) 668-2203

TALLY FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR ★

Explore four types of topped oysters, load up with stuffed grouper or opt for “turf” with a chef’s choice cut steak. Serving brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Voted Best Seafood restaurant winner in 2022. 6802 Thomasville Rd., (850) 900-5075. $$ L D

TED’S MONTANA GRILL ★

Voted Best Steakhouse winner for 2022, co-founders Ted Turner and George W. McKerrow imagined a restaurant that would provide friends and family with an experience founded on the ideals that made America great — simplicity, honesty and authenticity. And nothing is more authentically American than bison. 1954 Village Green Way. (850) 561-8337. $$ L D

THE SEINEYARD

Fried, grilled or blackened, the area’s best and freshest seafood is found at The Seineyard. Grab your basket or mix it up with a plate of grouper, catfish, shrimp, oysters, scallops and more. Multiple locations. (850) 421-9191. $$ L D

MAINTAINING CONNECTION

He speaks grief to the wind and is soothed

by BOB JONES

Above my late wife Mindy’s swing in my backyard hang wind chimes, also known as fenglings, which have their roots in China and date back to around 1,100 B.C. In the Far East, these wind bells were used as decorative art at private homes and sacred structures. Hundreds of years later, they became popular in the Western world, including the U.S.

My son, Mark, hung the chimes for me at my Tallahassee home, and he mounted my wind phone on a beam that supports the swing. That swing is the one Mindy and I had at our Alligator Point beach house for decades.

Sitting on Mindy’s swing is comforting. There was something very, very special about watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico while holding hands with the one I loved more than anything in the world.

Most people I know love the sound of chimes when the wind blows. Mindy and I always had wind chimes at our cabin in Banner Elk in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina, but when strong north winds ripped across Beech Mountain, we often had to retrieve chimes scattered around the property. That’s not a problem in my backyard.

I built a bright blue box for my wind phone, an idea that Japanese garden designer Itaru Sasaki originated in 2010 as a way to deal with the death of a cousin. The wind phone is unconnected to any earthbound grid, but Sasaki believes it is a means by which people can speak to loved ones who have died.

Sasaki installed an old rotary phone in an abandoned roadside telephone booth. He experienced comfort and healing by virtue of the connection he felt to his cousin through the phone, which he named kaze no denwa, which translates to “the phone of the wind.”

Tens of thousands of people have visited Sasaki’s original wind phone since 2011 when it was first publicized. There are now wind phones in places throughout the world, including Tampa. A wind phone can be placed anywhere, including my backyard.

In November 2021, CBS Sunday Morning broadcasted a segment about a wind phone placed by an amateur carpenter on the trunk of a massive tree in a rainforest near Olympia, Washington. He thought it might be helpful to his pre-teen daughter who

had lost a friend to infection, and then found himself using the phone to speak to his departed mother.

CBS correspondent Lee Cowan concluded that segment, saying, “Whispers on the wind; you might not hear them unless you listen.”

I don’t expect my “phone of the wind” to ring, but that’s alright with me. The sound of the wind chimes, coupled with the presence of a wind phone and my faith and imagination, provides solace and comfort to my soul as I talk to Mindy and all the other loved ones who have passed on.

Peace be with all. TM

Bob Jones was, for decades, the executive director of the Southeastern Fisheries Association, an organization that represents the interests of commercial fishermen throughout the region. At age 90, he is devoting his still considerable energies to finding the graves of some 900 Minorcans, including ancestors of his wife, Mindy, who died and were buried at a plantation in what would later become New Smyrna Beach.

↑ Bob Jones came by an old rotary phone and installed it on a post that supports the porch swing at his Tallahassee home. He was inspired by the notion of a Wind Phone by which people may communicate with departed loved ones.

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