Tallahassee Magazine • January/February 2025 by Rowland Publishing, Inc.

Rewriting the Future for Amputation-Bound Patients

Residents of Leon County and surrounding areas face a higher rate of limb amputations due to diabetes and vascular disease than the state average. At Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, we are dedicated to changing that.

As the third hospital in the nation to successfully perform the groundbreaking LimFlow vascular procedure, we are saving limbs and transforming lives of patients at risk of amputation.

This innovative, world-class care is just one way we’re reshaping the healthcare landscape in North Florida, South Georgia and Southeast Alabama.

Meet our team and discover why we’re the region’s leader in Heart & Vascular care at TMH.ORG/Vascular.

What TMag uses for

Saving Limbs, Changing Lives

Meet the physicians who are reshaping vascular care

The Critical Limb Ischemia Program at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) consists of an elite team of specialists who prevent amputations through state-of-the-art interventional techniques. Our fellowship-trained physicians combine over a century of collective experience from prestigious institutions and programs, including Duke University, Cleveland Clinic, the University of Michigan and the U.S. military. At TMH, we have a multidisciplinary approach to treating critical limb ischemia cases that brings together advanced wound care with Interventional Cardiology and Vascular Surgery to ensure the greatest level of care for each patient.

Combining their extensive expertise with cutting-edge techniques and a passionate commitment to patient care, these specialists have established TMH as the region’s premier resource for limb preservation, providing hope and healing to patients facing critical limb conditions.

If you think you may benefit from LimFlow or another vascular procedure, discuss a referral to TMH with your doctor.

See how we’re changing lives at TMH.ORG/Vascular.

Gutter TMag Designer for Gutter

William Dixon, MD Interventional Cardiology

Christopher Griggs, DO Vascular Surgery

John Katopodis, MD Interventional Cardiology

Robert Heidepriem, III, MD Vascular Surgery

Andres Vargas Estrada, MD Interventional Cardiology

Shane McEntire, MD Vascular Surgery

20 WAYS TO BE HAPPIER

It’s no secret that life can be so overwhelming that we sometimes forget how to enjoy it along the way. We oﬀer 20 solid ways to reconnect with joy and gratitude and bring the fun back into your life.

by PAIGE BOWERS AND KELLEY MARCELLUS

JOY OF COOKING

There are many beneﬁts to cooking at home, though experts suggest the practice is on the decline. Browns Kitchen is here to change all that.

by SARA SANTORA

by ballet’s leotards, tights, tutus, leg warmers, and more.

23 PERSONALITY

By day, tabletop gamer

Patrick Pence handles dispatch data for ﬁrst responders. On nights and weekends, he uses towers of dice and intricate boards to slay fantastical beasts.

28 CHAMPION

Timothy Barber, director of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives Research Center and Museum at FAMU, helps give a voice to the lions of history.

36 PETS Top Tier K9 Academy oﬀers a uniﬁed curriculum to train dogs and handlers. Think of it as a canine university.

41 CITIZEN OF STYLE

Celia Strauss creates joy with her colorful vegan creations and luxury picnics—and looks great doing it.

46 FASHION

Balletcore brings out our inner dancer with feminine looks inspired

50 WHAT’S IN STORE

Wellness-centric and chic oﬀerings at Hearth & Soul and The Pink Pineapple help you kick oﬀ 2025 in style.

GASTRO & GUSTO

53 DINING OUT A modern American menu and a vibe meant for socializing make The Monroe a destination worth checking out.

58 DINING IN Whether you’re a novice chef or a seasoned professional, crafting sushi is a tactile way to explore your creativity.

64 LIBATIONS With New Year’s resolutions top of mind, now is the perfect time to hop on the mocktail train with our delicious recipes.

71 DANCE Urban Bush Women is a worldrenowned dance

company that uses cultural expression as a catalyst for social change—and the world has taken notice.

74 ART Lily Kemp, one of Hearth & Soul’s artist partners, creates work based on the little beauties of life.

80 BOOKS New year, new reading list. To help you ﬁnd your next great

ATMOSPHERE

Houseplants have a host of bene ts for humans, from cleaning the air we breathe to helping combat stress. Don’t know where to begin? Our guide to healthy houseplants will make you a pro plant parent in no time.

read, Tallahassee Magazine has asked local booksellers to recommend the best titles to dive into in 2025.

102 INTERIORS Sleep is vital to health. So why do so many of us sleep so poorly? Our tips to better shut-eye will help you wake up as a new person.

108 GREEN SCENE Winter doesn’t have to put an end to your gardening dreams. The right

plantings and weather- and pestprooﬁng, including from four-legged visitors, will help keep gardens lush.

DESTINATIONS

113 GETAWAY

Swimming with sharks sounds like a scary proposition, but coming faceto-face with these misunderstood predators also has its rewards.

channels her passion for healthy living into her two catering companies, Tallahassee Picnic and Create Joy, which specializes in plant-based foods. She appears on our cover in a set by Misa Los Angeles—and with a limoncello in hand.

ON THE COVER: Celia Strauss

Photo by Alicia Osborne

68 ↑ SUPERIOR SIPS The South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival levels up for its April 2025 annual event. More than 600 wine labels await attendees at a series of seminars, the signature Grand Tasting event, and more.

110 DEAL ESTATE

The historic Bloxham House oﬀers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Tallahassee history dating back to 1844. The house features original charm with modern updates across a sweeping 5,000 square feet.

118 CALENDAR

Arts and culture warm up winter days with performances, concerts, festivals, events, and more.

124

↑

BEST OF TALLAHASSEE

2024 We recap our favorite night of the year—the event where we get to celebrate and congratulate the best in business throughout the Tallahassee area.

As much as we love digital banking, there is no substitute for ‘analog’ client service in banking. Count on your Capital City Bankers to provide the solutions you need for your next milestone, no matter where you are in life. ccbg.com. Around here, we always have reliable service.

Allie Gainous Client Experience Manager

ECMO SAVES LIVES.

life. local. cal. Your generosity. Their second chance.

With your help, more patients can receive this advanced care without leaving Tallahassee.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO, is an advanced life support system that helps patients whose lungs and heart aren’t functioning. For patients who need it, ECMO is often their last chance at recovery. TMH is building a world-class ECMO program but needs your help. We need at least one more ECMO machine to meet the needs of patients from throughout our region. Each machine costs approximately $250,000.

Make your year-end gift count. Give life.

April 3, 2025 - 5:30 PM

The Donald L. Tucker Civic Center at Florida State University

With worldwide sales of 80 million albums, Foreigner is one of the biggest selling bands of all time and a 2024 inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. New for this year’s Gala, VIP tables will enjoy a private set featuring comedian Fortune Feimster. You may know her from her Netflix special, “Sweet & Salty,” which was nominated for a Critics Choice Award. Proceeds will help TMH launch an ECMO program, which offers lifesaving support for patients whose lungs or heart are not working properly.

PUBLISHER MCKENZIE BURLEIGH

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, TALLAHASSEE MAGAZINE Daphne Nikolopoulos

SENIOR COPY EDITOR Melinda Lanigan

EDITOR, EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE Paige Aigret

EDITOR, NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS MAGAZINE Rebecca Padgett Frett

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paige Bowers, Marina Brown, Abigail Duﬀy, David Ekrut PhD, Pam Forrester, Rebecca Padgett Frett, Les Harrison, Kelley Marcellus, William L. Needham, Alexandra Owens, Paul Rubio, Sara Santora, Liesel Schmidt

CREATIVE

PRODUCTION MANAGER Daniel Vitter

DESIGN DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR, TALLAHASSEE MAGAZINE Saige Roberts

ART DIRECTOR, EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE Sarah Burger

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Maria Baranova, Dave Barﬁeld, Boo Media, Capehart Photography, Sarah Dietrich, Ian Douglas, Kyle Froman, Wes Gernstetter, Gabriel Hanway, Hayim Heron, Mummi Lu, Erich Martin, Sean Murphy, Bob O’Lary, Michael Patrick O’Neill, Alicia Osborne, Gyorgy Papp, Saige Roberts, Edier Rosado, VIP Hotbox, Dennis Whitestone, The Workmans

SALES, MARKETING, AND EVENTS

SALES MANAGER Lori Magee Yeaton

DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EASTERN DIVISION Daniel Parisi

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Tracy Mulligan

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Rayna Bishop, Julie Dorr

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Darla Harrison, Erica Wilson

ACCOUNT MANAGER Renee Johnson

MARKETING & EVENTS SPECIALIST Alix Black

OPERATIONS

CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan

OFFICE MANAGER Amber Ridgeway

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Brian Rowland

FL 32301. (850) 878-0554

SUBSCRIPTIONS One year (6 issues) is $35. Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to tallahasseemagazine.com. Single copies are $5.95. Purchase at Midtown Reader or call our oﬃce.

CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUBMISSIONS Tallahassee Magazine and Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography, or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. Tallahassee Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

Copyright January 2025 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

from the editor

IN WITH THE NEW

Diving into 2025 with a fresh perspective and commitment to healthy beginnings

Coming o a whirlwind holiday season and a loaded 2024, the beginning of this new year feels like an exhalation. For me, it’s a time to re ect on the triumphs and challenges of the past year and netune a path toward better everything—personal wellness, friend and family time, goals and decisions, professional growth. If you go through the same process every January, you’ll nd plenty in this issue to help you make 2025 a blockbuster year.

The cover star of our wellness-themed edition, Celia Strauss, embodies the concept of living joyfully and mindfully. A believer in wholesome, plant-based cuisine, she has built two businesses around health and wellness with an aesthetic air. From her highly Instagrammable veggie boards to her sartorial choices, Celia is a proponent of feeling and looking good, because good health is both a physical and a mental game. Learn more in “A Joyful Endeavor” on page 41. Speaking of mental health, who couldn’t use “20 Ways to be Happier”? Happiness is a state of mind, yet so many of us have trouble accessing it. The good news is a few simple strategies can help us reach the elusive state of happiness—and hold on to it. For example, it’s important to get social, even when you don’t feel like it. As FSU professor Svenja Wolf tells us, “Groups have properties that can magnify your emotional state.” Dr. Wolf

and other local experts, including Lee Collier of the Joy Squad and Marcy Sizemore of Olive Orchard Coaching & Consulting, share their wisdom on page 84. Check it out and feel the good vibes.

If part of your 2025 plan includes healthier choices at cocktail hour, I invite you to turn to “Mocktail Mixer,” our how-to on nonalcoholic beverages that give you every bit of the satisfaction of a traditional cocktail. Fancy a rich, chocolatey White Russian or a hydrating Kiwi Mockarita? We’ve got the recipes to those and more, starting on page 64.

Last year was jampacked with changes—including the acquisition of this magazine by our publishing company, Palm Beach Media Group—and I am committed to making 2025 a slower, more mindful time with a focus on the things that matter most. On the professional side, that translates to elevated content and even greater reader service, both cornerstones of our editorial philosophy. I can’t wait for you to see what we have in store. Be well,

DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR daphne@tallahasseemagazine.com

North Florida Women’s Care is Tallahassee’s premier women’s health medical group. We provide outstanding obstetric and gynecologic services to women throughout all stages of life.

Gynecology • Well-woman Exams

Infertility • Obstetrics • Ultrasound

MonaLisa Touch • Biote

from the publisher

WHAT IF EVERYTHING ENDS UP GREAT?

Reﬂecting on legacy and transition with gratitude and optimism

As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “The only constant in life is change.” But if change is constant, why is it so often met with resistance as an instinctual human reaction?

In the last few months, my colleagues and I have experienced a lot of change. The company we’ve all worked for, known, and loved for years and decades has met both an end and a new beginning.

Brian Rowland, the publisher of Rowland Publishing Inc., made the decision to sell his namesake company and o cially retire.

Rowland was my boss, mentor, and friend of 20 years. As a pillar of Northwest Florida communities, he’s left a lasting impact. I have heard and continue to hear rsthand accounts of gestures large and small by Rowland over the years. In those stories, a common theme shined through—shared words of wisdom and opportunity.

Rowland was known to give just about anyone a chance. While résumé and experience are important, hiring came down to a gut feeling for Rowland. Some hires brought unique creativity, some resulted in enhanced workplace dynamics, and others inspired lifelong working and personal relationships. In any case, careers and lives were changed or shaped in some way by a Rowland experience.

I remember my Rowland Publishing interview about 20 years ago. I met with then vice president of nance Greg Springs. I felt like it went well, but I was absolutely nervous. Springs called in the company’s president and publisher to conclude the interview. In walked Rowland, calm, cool, and collected in his blue jeans, button-up yellow linen shirt, and tennis shoes. Leaning back casually in his seat, he asked me, “If you could describe yourself as an animal, what would it be and why?” I answered that I would be a golden retriever, describing myself as loyal, loving, dedicated, and smart. Little did I know at the time his immense passion for dogs.

I got the job and had the pleasure to learn, observe, fail, grow, and admire this unique human. I spent a lot of time

working alongside Rowland. He was hard on me and pushed me. At the same time, he supported and guided me. And when we didn’t see eye to eye on something, we were always able to respect each other’s position, an understanding we called, “I can live with it.”

As with all change, the sale of Rowland Publishing has been a signi cant adjustment for myself and my colleagues.

When Rowland started the search to nd the best new owners to continue the company’s 34-year legacy, he knew he had found the perfect match in Palm Beach Media Group, a subsidiary of Hour Media.

In September 2024, when Palm Beach Media Group took over, the inherited sta from Rowland Publishing all had questions and concerns about what was to come and how these changes would impact lives both personally and professionally. Initially, most were experiencing worry about the unknown.

Upon rst meeting the leadership team from Hour Media and Palm Beach Media Group, I was struck with a gut feeling. While I didn’t get a chance to inquire as to what animal they identify as, I just knew that the change they were bringing had the potential for great things.

Hour Media’s industry longevity alone is inspiring, and their portfolio is impressive as the largest city and regional lifestyle publishers in the country. But also, I’ve seen in the company a commitment to quality and excellence and a sincere investment in the people within the organization.

At our in-person onboarding meetings in Tallahassee after the acquisition, we had many of our questions answered and learned of opportunities to come. During this time, I took a moment to share a thought with my longtime friends and co-workers:

“What if everything ends up great?”

I encouraged others to wonder if this could be the opportunity we didn’t know we were waiting for.

Today, I am excited and honored to continue producing your local lifestyle magazine. As a publication of Palm Beach Media Group, we remain dedicated to telling the stories of people, places, and opportunities that create the ber of our community. My passion to inspire, educate, and support the communities we serve remains, and I thank you, our readers, for supporting us along the way.

I also thank Brian Rowland for his 34 years of dedication to Northwest Florida—publishing countless magazines, books, newspapers, maps, guides, programs, and more. I have sincere respect and gratitude for my past experiences under Rowland’s leadership, and I am humbly honored and ecstatic to begin the new legacy of what is to come.

As we approach the new year, I encourage all to remember my question during times of uncertainty and change:

“What if everything ends up great?”

It just might!

Much love,

MCKENZIE BURLEIGH, PUBLISHER mburleigh@palmbeachmedia.com

A ROARING SUCCESS

The 2024 Best of Tallahassee event was a roaring success. Winning businesses, as voted by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine, were recognized and celebrated at The Moon with a 1920s-themed party to beneﬁt the nonproﬁt Big Bend Hospice Foundation.

GIVEAWAY

Enter to Win the Ultimate Hilton Sandestin Resort Vacation

Enter for your chance to win a weekend escape for two to the beautiful white sand beaches of the Emerald Coast! Enjoy the ultimate escape by the Gulf, including a stay for two, pampering at the Serenity by the Sea Spa, dinner, and more!

Enter at TallahasseeMagazine.com/ ultimate-hilton-getaway.

To read the full recap and see additional photography highlights, visit TallahasseeMagazine.com/glam-glitz-and-gatsby-celebrating-the-2024-best-of-winners.

CLASS OF 2024

Each year, 850 Business Magazine honors female leaders from communities throughout Northwest Florida who have made impacts through their leadership and servant hearts. In 2024, 12 women were nominated for their audacious, perspicacious, and courageous qualities. Among the 2024 Pinnacle class are educators, founders, and entrepreneurs who have made a positive impact in the communities they serve. They will be honored in March.

To read about each recipient and learn more about the event, visit 850BusinessMagazine.com/pinnacle-awards.

Did you know you can sign up for our exclusive e-newsletter for free? Get the latest news, information, giveaways, and more about all the happenings in Tallahassee. Go to TallahasseeMagazine.com/connect-with-us.

NOMINATE YOUR TALLY TOP PET

Tally Top Pet 2025 nominations will be open January 7–31. The campaign is sponsored by and beneﬁts Be The Solution, which works passionately to end pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our community by promoting and facilitating aﬀordable spay and neuter surgeries.

To submit your pet for the 2025 Tally Top Pet campaign, visit TallahasseeMagazine.com/ tally-top-pet.

LimFlow Saves Andrew’s Leg

New Procedure at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare

Brings Hope to Amputation-Bound

Patients

by Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare

AndrewReed always loved working. The Quincy, Fla., native spent his entire career with the Florida Department of Corrections, rising to the rank of captain at Apalachee Correctional in nearby Sneads, Fla. So, when Andrew retired from his job, he expected to work around the house while spending more time with his wife, Cynthia, his three children and seven grandchildren. However, when he began to experience complications related to diabetes, his life and retirement changed in ways he could not have imagined – including putting his leg at risk for amputation.

A Shocking Diagnosis

After years of trying to manage diabetes with medication and lifestyle changes, Andrew had a heart attack in 2019, requiring bypass surgery. Over time, he also developed kidney disease related to the diabetes. Eventually, the kidney disease became so significant that Andrew had to start dialysis and was placed on a transplant list.

As if that wasn’t enough, life became more complicated when Cynthia noticed a dark spot on Andrew’s toe in 2023.

By the time they saw Andrew’s podiatrist, his toe had gotten worse, and the podiatrist referred him to Andres M. Vargas Estrada, MD, an Interventional Cardiologist at TMH Physician Partners, Services by Southern Medical Group – Cardiology.

“The toe had already turned dark,” Cynthia explained. “So, when we went to see Dr. Vargas – in the midst of him trying to save the toe – he found that all of the arteries [in Andrew’s leg] were clogged.”

LimFlow Rescues Andrew’s Leg

Dr. Vargas determined that Andrew had critical limb ischemia, a severe condition from late-stage peripheral artery disease that can lead to gangrene, amputation and even death.

Unless blood flow could be restored to Andrew’s leg, he was at risk for amputation, which comes with its own potential complications.

Even worse – because he had critical limb ischemia, Andrew was removed from the organ transplant list for a new kidney.

“We were able to determine that Mr. Reed had significant blockages from the accumulation of plaque in his leg that were cutting off his leg’s blood supply,” said Dr. Vargas. “In most cases like this, the unfortunate result is amputation. However, we now have the option of LimFlow here at TMH for patients who had no other option before.”

Dr. Vargas identified Andrew as a candidate for the LimFlow System. In November 2023, Andrew became the third patient in the nation, and first in the region, to undergo LimFlow outside of a clinical trial.

“When they told us about all of the blockage and that they would probably have to amputate, Andrew and I both got very emotional,” said Cynthia. “After everything we had already been through, being taken off the transplant list, and now possibly losing his leg, Andrew went into a deep depression and I just tried to keep him motivated.”

The Reeds were apprehensive about trying a new procedure that had never been done at TMH before, but after talking with their children about it, they decided it was a risk they were willing to take to save Andrew’s leg.

The LimFlow System is designed to re-establish blood flow in deep veins. Through this revolutionary procedure, Dr. Vargas, joined by Robert Heidepriem, MD, John Katopodis, MD and the Tallahassee Memorial Cath Lab team, connected an artery in Andrew’s calf to a vein near his foot to restore blood flow.

Using LimFlow, the team moved arterial and venous catheters through the blood vessels next to each other. Then, after creating an opening between the artery and the neighboring vein, they used a stent to create a channel from the artery to the vein, allowing blood to return unhindered to Andrew’s foot.

Time to Heal

Although the LimFlow procedure was successful, Andrew was not immediately out of the woods.

“Post-surgery was a long process,” Cynthia said. “Andrew was having a lot of pain [from the pre-existing foot wound]. It was hard for the side of his foot to heal.”

That’s when Andrew was introduced to the TMH Wound Care team, led by Joseph Mazziotta, MD. In coordination with Dr. Heidepriem, the talented vascular surgeon that assisted in his LimFlow operation, the Wound Care team worked together to prepare a treatment plan for Andrew to ensure successful outcomes.

“Our team of specialists, nurses and other professionals did an outstanding job working with Mr. Reed to determine the best treatment to help him heal and to execute that plan with some of the most state-of-the-art treatment options available, including wound management and hyperbaric oxygen therapy,” Dr. Mazziotta said. “We were very pleased to see that those plans and treatments were ultimately quite successful.”

‘Blessed’

to Get Back to Living

With the help of LimFlow and the Wound Care team, Andrew avoided amputation and is well on the road to recovery.

Andrew has improved so much since the surgery, he has even been able to start driving again. And because LimFlow was able to save Andrew’s leg, he is also in the process of applying to be back on the kidney transplant list.

“Being taken off the transplant list was really hard for Andrew and I,” Cynthia explained. “So for him to be at this point now, where he is doing so well and we can possibly get him back on the list, it’s just so much more hopeful for us.”

Cynthia and Andrew are thankful for his care team at TMH.

“They are awesome – the very best. They were just so kind and patient with my husband and so attentive.”

To others, Cynthia offers some advice – “Go to the doctor regularly. Get checked. And if you are ever in a position where they have to offer you LimFlow – really, really consider it, because I feel like it saved my husband’s leg. He’s doing wonderful now, but to save his whole leg? We’re blessed. He is blessed.”

If you think you may benefit from LimFlow or another Vascular procedure, discuss a referral to TMH with your doctor.

Learn more about the region’s heart and vascular leader at TMH.ORG/Vascular.

Did You Know?

According to the Amputee Coalition, there are nearly 2 million people living with limb loss in the United States, with 150,000 people needing lower limb amputation every year. Among those living with limb loss, the main cause is vascular disease, often brought on by diabetes. Leon County and the surrounding counties are overrepresented in those statistics compared to statewide averages.

PERSONALITY

PROFILING THE PURSUITS, PASSIONS, AND PERSONALITIES AMONG US JAN/FEB 2025

THE RISE OF THE GEEKDOM

by DAVID EKRUT, PHD

With a collection of 500 games— over 656 counting expansions—Patrick Pence is an expert in all types of games.

CHAMPION Timothy Barber || PETS

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

↗→ Though he’s involved in many groups around town that play a range of genres, Pence has a preference for war and strategy games. Possibly his favorite, Pax Porﬁriana is set in the pre-revolutionary borderlands of the United States and Mexico, where players compete to build business empires.

Patrick Pence is more than your friendly neighborhood geographic information systems coordinator for the City of Tallahassee Public Safety Office. By day, he handles data related to 911 dispatch and response for police, fire, sheriff, and EMS. On nights and weekends, he uses towers of dice and intricate boards to slay fantastical beasts or armies of enemies from World War Next with a community of like-minded people around Tallahassee.

“Geek” was once a term used to defame gaming enthusiasts from coast to coast, intending to sow shame and induce selfloathing, but now the term is trending.

“Geekdom is something you can be proud of,” Pence says of being a gamer. “There is a lifestyle, there’s a culture, and there’s a mentality and a social aspect to this.”

Though “gamer” is a broad category and can be used to describe video game and board game enthusiasts alike, others might say the moniker only includes role players. However, they have one common trait: geekdom encompasses them all. Within a moment’s notice, each gamer is ready to take up dice, cards, or miniatures and join forces to engage in hours of creative dialogue centered around their chosen game.

Pence is a prominent member of several groups online and around Tallahassee, but they aren’t all connected.

“We have many sites around town that play typically on the weekend,” Pence says, “everything from miniature wargaming to RPGs. You have regular groups that will meet in public spaces and in private spaces.”

Groups typically congregate around common themes and/or game types. Genres range from fantasy, science fiction, or historical fiction to modern and futuristic settings with cooperative roleplaying (RPG) styles, hack-and-slash, strategy/war, and countless others.

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

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“The Tallahassee gaming community has very broad memberships,” Pence says. “Between social media platforms, discord online gaming, and just true old tabletop gaming in person at local scenes in Tallahassee, it’s quite possible to not run into the same people.”

For decades, gamers were stereotyped as teens too socially awkward to come out of their mothers’ basements, so they gathered in secret to play make-believe. This stigma persisted through the early 2000s. Then, “You had things like Wil Wheaton and TableTop,” Pence says. “You had

Felicia Day start Geek & Sundry,” which were YouTube channels dedicated to tabletop roleplaying and board games.

Also, there were shows like The Big Bang Theory, Community, and Parks and Recreation that helped bring Dungeons & Dragons into popular culture with episodes featuring the game in a way that highlighted how fun it could be.

These trendsetters have ushered in a new age of gamers and wouldbe gamers now content to watch other people play rather than actively participate.

“The ability to get to know people, to see what they do and don’t know, and where their shortcomings are as a team is so much fun.”

With a collection of 500 games— over 656 counting expansions— Pence is an expert in all types of games, but his favorite genre is war and strategy, specifically those involving the American Civil War. Pence runs a popular YouTube channel, Patrick’s Tactics & Tutorials, where he plays and teaches a variety of war and strategy games for thousands of subscribers.

“I’ve been a student of history and conflict simulations for over 40 years,” Pence says. “I think Risk was the first one I ever played on a regular basis.”

photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

↖ Pence has run Trivia Night every Thursday for 12 years on behalf of The Trivia Lab. He currently hosts at Smitty’s Taphouse & Grill.

In gaming communities, both Risk: The Game of Strategic Conquest and The Settlers of Catan are considered gateway games into war and strategy. Both require large chunks of time, where players strategize and compete for land and/or resources to win.

Another category of interest to Pence that hits a different demographic is trivia, which was a passion he shared with his mother growing up.

“We would play Jeopardy! together,” he recalls. Having an eidetic memory helped him excel in competition with friends and family, until he competed in the live television show as a Season 26 contestant in November 2009. Though he didn’t win, he is proud to have been part of the show.

Pence has run Trivia Night every Thursday for 12 years on behalf of The Trivia Lab. He currently hosts at Smitty’s Taphouse & Grill. For Pence, “The ability to get to know people, to see what they do and don’t know, and where their shortcomings are as a team is so much fun.”

Games, trivia, and roleplaying—the all-encompassing Geekdom—are a great way to bring people of all walks of life together into one room.

“Half the fun is making friends with people from all circles and backgrounds,” Pence says. “People come together in a communal activity. You can overlook things like politics and discourse and ideologues, all that stuff, just to sit down for the love of the game for a couple of hours.”

Regardless of the game of choice, it’s all about breaking down each other’s walls and embracing the Geekdom. TM

Full-service cat care company that provides care in clients’ homes

Feeding and water

Litter box scooping

Medication administration

Mail retrieval

Trash cans to curb

Lights adjusted

Watering of plants

Lots of love and playtime

Daily updates including pictures

↑ Risk: The Game of Strategic Conquest and The Settlers of Catan are considered gateway games into war and strategy. According to Pence, “Half the fun is making friends with people from all circles and backgrounds.”

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ARTIFACTS FROM THE BLACK ARCHIVES

Timothy Barber helps give a voice to the lions of history

by DAVID EKRUT, PHD

Most people go to a museum expecting to find old letters, dusty tombs, and age-old relics preserved in glass cases like trophies, only to be glanced at while walking through musky halls. Timothy Barber, director of the MeekEaton Black Archives Research Center & Museum at Florida A&M University, aims to bring a fresh perspective to every exhibit he designs.

“What I do is try to find ways to make history relevant. It’s almost like Disney World,” Barber says, noting that the theme park is constantly upgrading and changing rides to make the experience more appealing for repeat visitors.

Barber strives to take museum guests on a journey, starting with a piece of history and ending with contrasting images of the past with the voices of

↑ Timothy Barber, director of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives Research Center & Museum at Florida A&M University, aims to bring a fresh perspective to every exhibit he designs.

photography

CHAMPION

today. Last year, he welcomed a special traveling exhibition from the Museum of UnCut Funk entitled “Funky Turns 40: Black Character Revolution.”

The exhibit showed how people of color have been portrayed in cartoons and television throughout history in images that Barber says “mess with the psychology of kids, when the only thing you see about yourself is a dark face and big lips.” He wanted to show the historical context of this, so the feature began with black-and-white caricatures and evolved as the exhibit progressed.

“All of a sudden, everything is in color,” Barber says. “You see Fat Albert. You see these positive icons. You see Josie and the Pussycats. You see all of these new characters that started coming out in the ’70s that played to Black empowerment, and that changes the mindset.”

↑ “Funky Turns 40: Black Character Revolution” is a traveling exhibit celebrating the evolution of Black animated characters in the 1970s. Curated by the Museum of UnCut Funk, the exhibit focuses on groundbreaking Saturday morning cartoons that portrayed Black characters in empowering roles, breaking away from previous stereotypes. Shows like Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, Josie and the Pussycats, and The Jackson 5ive are highlighted as pivotal examples of this shift.

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Barber doesn’t tell the stories. The history is already there, so he allows the exhibits to speak their truths.

“My intent is to make you ask yourself questions as you go through and view these materials—it could be slavery papers; it could be a Jim Crow [exhibit]; it could be a church exhibit; it could be an African mask,” he says. “My job is to make sure when [you] walk through the museum, you come out with a better selfawareness of who you are.”

Barber emphasizes the importance of preserving facts without bias, acknowledging, “At the same time, we have to educate. It’s not our job to interpret the history. It’s our job to make sure that the history is preserved for years to come so these documents don’t get lost—these stories don’t get lost.”

The Black Archives was the first of its kind in Florida, with nearly a half-century of dedication to preserving culture and history of the Black community.

Preservation of Black history began after Florida passed legislation in 1971 to create a repository of historical source materials “about African Americans from ancient to present times.” Professor James Eaton began what would become the Meek-Eaton Black Archives Research Center & Museum at Florida A&M University a few years later in 1976.

Eaton’s impact has stretched across the generations, inspiring all those who walk through the museum or search through the archives, including Barber, who was a student at FAMU under the tutelage of Eaton himself. Though educated as an engineer, Barber only worked for a short time in his initial field, finding the work unfulfilling.

“I intended to come back to school for an English degree,” Barber recalls, “then transition to law school when I got here.” Instead, he took an internship opportunity as an archivist at the Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida in Miami, where he spent nearly two decades, advancing to become the director before returning to his alma mater.

Barber has overseen the museum’s operations for nearly three years and has strived to reach a larger audience with innovative exhibits and new technologies.

Recently, Barber and his team launched MEBA Digital, a virtual experience allowing researchers, students, and enthusiasts a platform to explore

↑ Artifacts found on MEBA Digital include this bronze bust of William Patrick Foster. Recognized as one of the world’s most renowned band directors, he was the creator and band director of the internationally acclaimed FAMU Marching “100” Band for more than 50 years.

BROOKS

“through meticulously curated catalogs and uncover stories behind each artifact to connect with history in a profound and meaningful way.”

There are two portals that are accessible worldwide. The first, Explore, enables visitors to take a virtual tour across current exhibits. The Learn repository allows users to peruse historical archives, consisting of more than 500,000 individual records and more than 5,000 museum artifacts.

The next attraction in the works is called “Beyond Black Beauty,” a multipart installation opening in Spring 2025 with a feature titled Miss FAMU and the Aesthetics of Excellence. The production promises to be an immersive experience that will illuminate the tradition of the Black College Queen, promoting an appreciation of “Black women’s hair as a symbol of resistance and autonomy by way of a striking presentation of portraits” from the internationally acclaimed artist Sandro Miller’s Crowns: My Hair, My Soul, My Freedom

Historically, Barber feels there has been a fear in communities around Black hair, particularly “in federal government, where Black women would cover their hair with wigs because they didn’t want to show their natural hair.”

Research from a study by the Duke School of Business suggests there is merit to this fear, where Black women with natural hairstyles are overlooked for promotions for “appearing less professional” than Black women with straightened hair or wigs.

Barber envisions the exhibit inspiring Black children who might have a resistance to being who they are. Or, in his words, “Our whole thing is wanting the girls to come in and feel good about themselves.”

Additional features will include “Stomp the Yard Twentieth Anniversary: Exploration of Greek Life at FAMU,” opening in 2027, and “The Beat of the Drum: Year of the Oak, Honoring 80 Years of the Marching 100 and Counting” in 2028.

Honoring history is crucial to Barber, who says, “Until the lions tell their stories, the tales of the hunt will only glorify the hunter.”

If truth matters, then contentious moments in history must be considered from the perspective of the ones who were not considered victorious, and showing the relevance of the modern Black perspective through the lens of an accurate historical context will help to give these lions of history a voice. TM

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↙

Top Tier K9 CEO and founder Jeff Minder wanted to develop a unified curriculum to train dogs and handlers, so he created a standardized instructional method with franchising opportunities.

The students are called French Fry, Pinky, Lavender, and Brandy. Despite their adorable names, however, they’re undergoing serious, and sometimes dangerous, lessons: nose work, tracking and protection, becoming service dogs for veterans, and yes—learning obedience skills to be family pets.

Their school, Top Tier K9 Academy, is best described as a dog training university with multiple colleges, optional majors, and master classes encompassing dozens of aspects of canine training. The CEO and founder, Jeff Minder, wanted to develop a unified curriculum to train dogs and handlers, so he created a standardized instructional method with franchising opportunities.

The academy teaches specific dog skills tailored to the needs of professionals as well as pet owners, like tracking for law enforcement and obedience for families. The aforementioned nose work is for scent-detecting dogs learning to smell deadly bombs or hidden viruses. In fact, Top Tier K9 provided some of the first dogs capable of sniffing out COVID-19 at the Seattle airport during the early months of the pandemic in 2020.

Minder is a disabled veteran of Desert Storm and father to a disabled son, who is a decorated Iraq veteran. As such, he is passionate about helping all veterans, and his company offers numerous initiatives for vets, like Build or Buy a Battle Buddy and K-9 Warriors for Women.

A Human APPROACH

Top Tier K9 CEO Jeﬀ Minder trains dogs and their owners by PAM FORRESTER

Top Tier K9 also collaborates with other charitable organizations and donates countless hours to veterans, providing service or emotional dog training. Never ignoring what Minder calls the “essential human work,” he insists the veterans complete the training with the dogs whenever possible, so owner and dog can create a bond during the training process.

In 2023, 15 dogs found homes with veterans through Top Tier’s efforts.

A key component of the academy is putting trainers through rigorous training of their own with multiple certification levels. Everyone who carries the Top Tier K9 name has received a comprehensive, professional education built on proven success with dogs and owners.

“Timing, motivation, and consistency are the most important elements of dog training,” Minder says. “We train people how to train dogs, and we train dogs using these same principles.”

Top Tier’s philosophy includes training through rewards and the least amount of corrections.

“I like people, but I love dogs,” Minder says. “Millions of dogs are euthanized annually in the United States, many because of behavior issues. My training can help with many of the dog and human problems.”

↑→ The academy teaches speciﬁc dog skills tailored to the needs of professionals and pet owners alike, like tracking for law enforcement and obedience for families. Here, Jeﬀ Minder along with intern Dean Weaver, work with three trainers and their dogs: Paige Hagberg with Tapps, the German shepherd; Alexia Barquet with Karma, the black lab; and Alyssa Browning with Reason, the golden retriever.

Every time Minder speaks about his training, he includes the words “humans” or “people.” This is because people are an essential part of his approach, where dog owners are trained alongside their furry companions.

“Pets are not trained until owners are trained as well,” Minder says.

A former software company developer, Minder knows innovative methods can be an important tool in learning. One educational option offered by Top Tier K9 is the virtual reality dog training program.

The augmented AI work is a step-by-step comprehensive training center. Humans learn to master giving commands to virtual pets before they come face-to-face with their eager fourlegged students.

In live situations, pet owners can select from one of several course durations. A three-week

program, for example, builds communication and obedience and teaches basic commands like healing on a leash or recall.

Since its founding 10 years ago, the organization has expanded to include facilities in 10 locations across seven states. And the list of academy accolades is growing. In June 2024, Top Tier K9 was the focus of the

Bloomberg TV show The World’s Greatest! In late August, the State of Florida singled out Top Tier K9 with the “Best of Florida” award.

Given that more than 60 million Americans have dogs, it appears there is no shortage of pet parents who need help or canines who could benefit from learning to sniff, heal, protect, and hand kiss. TM

↑ Every time Minder speaks about his training, he includes the words “humans” or “people.”

This is because people are an essential part of his approach, where dog owners are trained alongside their furry companions.

and

JAN/FEB 2025

REGARDING MATTERS OF ALL THINGS STYLISH

32-year-old Celia Strauss is using her business to “Create Joy” by

MARINA BROWN

↗ Celia Strauss is the owner of two businesses: Create Joy

Tallahassee Picnic.

She is shown here in the

Misa Los Angeles Laurie maxi dress and Tory Burch Banana tall coco brown boots.

Entrepreneurs come in all varieties—older, savvy men in Armani suits; earnest hopefuls with vague notions of how to make their marks; and hard-working women and men with a dream and a willingness to ignore the clock and calendar to obtain their goals.

Celia Strauss belongs in the last category. Educated in marketing and communications, Strauss is now the prime creator behind a popular Instagram account that has turned into a soughtafter, high-end catering company called Create Joy, specializing in plant-based foods.

Create Joy and Tallahassee Picnic, a second event and catering business the 32-year-old recently purchased, have “taken off,” says Strauss, partially as a result of her cheerful online presence that touts the joys of juicing and eating foods that are not only good for you but also “delicious and beautiful to look at.” Catering to the Tallahasseans who crave her personally delivered Wednesdaynight meals and who rely on her dramatic full-service food presentations for showers, weddings, and other major events keeps her busy, she reports.

A Perry native, Strauss attended FSU and majored in marketing. She later graduated from Flagler College with a degree in strategic communications. After school, she plunged headlong into the field doing PR, marketing, and advertising work with For The Table. She also served as the marketing manager for Hearth & Soul in Tallahassee and Austin. Then everything changed when she started posting about plant-based eating on social media.

“People loved what I was doing, and I started getting, ‘If you

“People

and

loved what I was doing,

I started getting, ‘If you sell it, we’ll buy it,’ comments. My rst party was for six people for a wonderful

local business owner, Katrice Howell, the owner of The Hub Tallahassee.”

— CELIA STRAUSS

sell it, we’ll buy it,’ comments,” Strauss says.

Then came the invitations to cater based on the healthy cuisine she was preparing. “My first party was for six people for a wonderful local business owner, Katrice Howell, the owner of The Hub Tallahassee. After that first event, we went on to create many special events together, including an outdoor dinner party series, Evenings Under the Pergola.”

More recently, Strauss took over Tallahassee Picnic, an event company offering “luxury picnics” complete with floral arrangements, fine linen and table settings, and

either chairs or posh cushions around a gloriously designed table that invokes a balance between upscale and casual that Strauss loves both professionally and sartorially.

“I’m always aware of balance in my choices,” she says of her personal style. For example, coupling a lacey blouse with a pair of torn jeans and adding a pair of colorful, attention-getting sneakers is a favorite device. “I’ve noticed that my food presentations and event decor tend to follow that same color dynamic. I love fuchsias and pinks to excite more serene backdrops.”

↑ Strauss with a crudites board featuring fresh fruits, veggies, crackers, and beet hummus dip. She is outiftted in the Misa Los Angeles River top and skirt set. She says that Create Joy and Tallahassee Picnic have “taken oﬀ,” partially as a result of her cheerful online presence that touts the joys of juicing and eating foods that are not only good for you but also “delicious and beautiful to look at.”

CLOTHING STYLED BY: Sarah Villella, Narcissus

Her home, she says, contains much of the same aesthetic— “creamy colors with notes of vibrant color.”

Of course, “I’m not always wearing sneakers and ripped jeans,” she notes. “My feminine, girly side comes out when I’m catering an event.”

These events give her the chance to don her signature large-hoop earrings and various other jewelry pieces with sentimental meaning.

Though she maintains a staff, Strauss also relies on her husband, Cody. The pair met in college while working for a caterer called Sibley Richardson and, after hitting it off, decided to stay in touch. Now, all these years later, they each run their own successful businesses: Cody owns Dogwood Catering, and Strauss is busier than ever with Create Joy and Tallahassee Picnic.

“We have always helped one another pursue our food endeavors,” Strauss says.

Strauss is always in motion. Case in point: at the end of our interview, she ran off to gather ingredients for Create Joy’s weekly family-style meal delivery service. As to what’s on the menu, Strauss offered a few mouthwatering examples: chili with dairy-free sour cream and cheddar, green onions, and jalapeño corn bread; eggplant rollatini stuffed with vegan ricotta in a zesty tomato sauce; a Greek salad with homemade hummus and pita, falafel, dolmades, and rosemarybraised white peas; and a vegan chocolate trifle or grilled peaches for dessert.

ON-THE-GO

In need of a quick and easy ready-made meal? Create Joy oﬀers grab-and-go food and juices at The Society, a wellness studio located in Market Square. 1350 Market Street, Suite 123

Whether meal and event planning in her apron and athleisure or catering in a feminine, flowy dress, Strauss is constantly working to “Create Joy.” TM

For more information about Strauss’ businesses, visit @createjoytlh on Instagram and tallahasseepicnic.com.

↑ Recently, Strauss took over Tallahassee Picnic, an event company offering “luxury picnics” complete with floral arrangements, fine linens, and table settings. She is shown here at a mini picnic setting wearing Generation Love NY Libney denim pants, a Brodie cashmere sweater, and Dolce Vita Rodni cream woven mesh flats.

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A CHOREOGRAPHED CLOSET

The relevé of balletcore

There comes a time in many little girls’ lives when they dream of becoming a ballerina. While the dream may not pan out for many because talent cannot be emulated, a ballerina’s style can be.

Graceful, poised, powerful, and feminine are all adjectives that can be used to describe ballerinas. The clothing ballerinas wear in the studio emphasizes the long, lean, and clean lines of their bodies, while the costumes they don on stage illuminate an air of whimsy and beauty.

Ballet has been around for centuries, but society’s surest fascination with its fashion began with ballerina Marie Taglioni, who introduced the romantic tutu—a multilayered skirt reaching to midcalf—in 1832.

In the 1870s for Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, the tutu skirt was dramatically shortened to better accommodate leaps and showcase the strength of

the dancers’ legs. Additionally, in the 1870s, ballerinas became the muse of famed French impressionist artist Edgar Degas, who featured them as subjects in more than 1,500 works.

In the 1880s French acrobat Jules Leotard created the leotard. Traditionally worn with tights to provide a streamlined look while also aiding in blood circulation and muscle fatigue, the garment would later become the standard for American ballet.

George Balanchine, one of the most influential chorographers of the twentieth century, was pivotal in popularizing rehearsal wear or ballerina

↗ For Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, the tutu skirt was dramatically shortened to better accommodate leaps and showcase the strength of the dancers’ legs. → George Balanchine (left), one of the most inﬂuential choreographers of the twentieth century, popularized rehearsal wear or ballerina street style.

REBECCA PADGETT FRETT FASHION

street style. This practice directly led to today’s merging of high and low ballet fashion into balletcore the comforts of cotton leg warmers paired with the drama of a layered tulle skirt, for example.

“Balletcore allows us as fashion consumers to dress like we’re on stage,” says Sarah Villella, manager and buyer of Narcissus. “From tights both sheer [and] opaque, bustiers with boning, and bows adorned on cardigans to hair accessories, balletcore brings out our inner dancer.”

At Narcissus, Villella points wannabe bunheads to Loeffler Randall mesh crystal ballet flats, For Love and Lemons’ argyle cardigan and bralette, and a Cinq a Sept drop-waist black mini dress. Dancers love to make an entrance and often wow with their costumes, which is why investing in pieces with dropwaist silhouettes, tulle skirts, puff sleeves, and bubble hems, plus costume wear speckled in sequins, rhinestones, and pearls is a finely rehearsed move.

“Balletcore allows us as fashion consumers to dress like we’re on stage.”

—

↖↑ Ballet is all about the details as is its fashion—think bows and intricate lace. The traditional ballet color palette is monochromatic blacks, beiges, and pinks.

← In the 1880s, French acrobat Jules Leotard created the leotard. Worn with tights to provide a streamlined look while also aiding in blood circulation and muscle fatigue, the garment would later become the standard for American ballet.

Sarah Villella, manager and buyer at Narcissus

Available at Narcissus

The stage may be for catching and holding the eye, but studiowear is all about transitional pieces and sleek style.

“Balletcore is the ultimate feminine look while maintaining comfort and style,” says Maria Hurst, owner of Gypsy Rose Boutique.

Hurst recommends breathable and moveable fabrics such as jersey, cotton, and cashmere. Jersey or cotton joggers can be worn by men or women and

ankle and foot. Drape a cashmere cardigan around your neck or tie a crewneck sweatshirt around your waist. In the cooler months, throw on a pair of tights or leg warmers.

One of the most iconic elements of balletcore are ballet flats, which can be dressed up or down.

“Unlike rigid pointe shoes, ballet flats found for street wear are incredibly comfortable and a welcomed trend compared to heels,” says Villella.

Ballet is all about the details as is its fashion (think: bows and intricate lace). The traditional ballet color palette is monochromatic blacks, beiges, and pinks. There’s also the subtle incorporation of pastels or the dramatic flare of bright red or deep purple.

When carefully curated and expertly choreographed, the balletcore look can elicit a standing ovation from the likes of Anna Pavlova to Misty Copeland. TM

← The stage may be for catching and holding the eye, but studiowear is all about transitional pieces and sleek style. “Balletcore is the ultimate feminine look while maintaining comfort and style,” says Maria Hurst, owner of Gypsy Rose Boutique.

Cinq a Sept drop-waist black mini dress

For Love and Lemons argyle cardigan and bralette

Loeffler Randall mesh crystal ballet flats

February 22, 2025

AC Hotel

What’s In Store?

A roundup of retail happenings

by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

The Pink Pineapple

A new year warrants a new scent. Welcome the new year into your life and home with the Sweet Grace scent collection. With bright citrus and sparkling fruit tea top notes that mingle with woody hints of chocolate and caramel, this is a scent for all seasons. Whether you prefer lighting a candle or setting a di user, either option is available in a beautiful pale pink design.

➸ Every jewelry box needs a classic pair of gold hoops. They are comparable to a little black dress in your closet. The JULIE VOS HAVANA HOOP is ideal. These small, 24-karat gold-plated hoops feature a lightly hand-hammered ﬁnish that catches and scatters light. The detailing is subtle yet elevates an outﬁt, upping your accessories game.

➸ While Tallahassee may not reach frigid temperatures, it does get chilly enough to cause dry skin. Combat the itchy, scratchy feeling with a WINTER WELLNESS KIT FROM PINCH PROVISIONS. Tucked in a silver puﬀer pouch, the kit includes a silver scrunchie, under-eye gel pads, a silicone lip scrubber, a eucalyptus shower steamer, an exfoliating mitt, moisturizing heel socks, lip balm, and a stainless-steel gua sha.

Hearth & Soul

➸ SERIOUSLY, SO GOOD by Carissa Stanton, creator of @BroccYourBody, offers 100 easy, delicious recipes that prioritize health and enjoyment, blending balanced meals with indulgent flavors to make cooking a satisfying, stress-free experience. Through dishes like Greek-style Lemon Chicken Soup and Brown Butter Lemon Halibut, Stanton shows that healthy eating can be flavorful, fun, and never restrictive.

➸ Glow everywhere you go with OSEA DAYGLOW FACE OIL. This dermatologistrecommended product nourishes with a blend of mineral-rich Undaria seaweed and botanical oils. Gentle on sensitive skin, this oil provides a dewy ﬁnish and a subtle chamomile scent.

➸ Dip into divine moisture with the LOLLIA RELAX BODY BUTTER, which combines aloe, shea butter, cocoa butter, and avocado oil to envelop your body in rich radiance. The scent is sensational, balancing notes of lavender, honey, white orchid, Indian amber, and Tahitian vanilla.

➸ Skin gadget gurus will delight in the CRYO TONING TOOLS, stainlesssteel massaging methods that utilize thermal water technology to combine the beneﬁts of cryotherapy and lymphatic drainage, helping to contour, lift, and detoxify the skin for a ﬁrmer, more radiant look.

➸ Eating should be a pleasurable experience while also providing sustenance and nutrients. This is why best-selling author and psychiatrist Judson Brewer wrote THE HUNGER HABIT. This book uses neuroscience to decode the brain’s role in cravings and eating habits, so readers can build awareness and self-kindness around their relationship to food.

gastro&gusto

JAN/FEB 2025 FROM THE SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE TO THE PI È CE DE R É SISTANCE

DINING OUT

KELLEY MARCELLUS

gastro & gusto

Just south of downtown is an exciting new development on the dining scene: the opening of The Monroe. With a mid-century modern vibe, The Monroe is the latest from executive chef Jesse Edmonds, whose other properties—including Liberty Bar & Restaurant, El Cocinero, The Hawthorn, Bar 1903, Black Radish, and South Station—have helped define Tallahassee’s culinary culture.

The claim to fame for this restaurant, which opened last July as the anchor tenant of the SoMo Walls development project, is a diverse menu and an invitation to explore a new destination.

“In real estate, we have a saying, ‘Retail follows rooftops,’” says Bugra Demirel, a partner of The Monroe and the force behind the SoMo Walls development project. “But what do you do when you want to open a restaurant but don’t have residences in the area?”

Demirel says the planning gets more technical because you need to give potential customers the motivation to venture into an unfamiliar area. As the anchor tenant for SoMo Walls, an arts and entertainment district that spans a city block on South Monroe Street from Oakland Avenue to Harrison Street,

The Monroe is up for the challenge.

Designed to appeal to a variety of customers, The Monroe is a great place for a date night, says Demirel. Yet it’s casual enough for friends to gather and order cocktails and small, shareable plates, such as fugazetta, an Argentinian cheese-stuffed pizza with caramelized onions and chimichurri, or étouffée fritters, a dish of andouille, crawfish, and chicken fritters, garlic shrimp remoulade, grated Parmesan, and chives.

Have a bigger appetite? The menu also features several pasta selections such as the ricotta-stuffed agnolotti with brown butter, grilled mushrooms, and confit tomato or lobster bucatini featuring butterpoached Maine lobster tail, bucatini pasta, Champagne-grilled leek and brie cream, crispy leeks, wilted kale, and chive oil.

Entrées also include various seafood options, many of which are sourced from Apalachicola. “Large Format” selections are meant to be served family-style, including Nashville hot chicken—whole fried chicken, collard greens, rice pilaf, crispy sorghum bacon brussels sprouts, jalapeño cheddar biscuits, and hot oil—and chateaubriand, which is cast-iron

↗ A unique part of the menu is the “Large Format” options that are served family-style. Designed for two to four people, dishes like the Mediterranean shish kebabs are ideal for a date night or a small outing with friends.

seared beef tenderloin, cowboy butter, potatoes au gratin, roasted brussels sprouts, carrots, and butternut squash.

“We call our menu ‘modern American cuisine,’” says Demirel, explaining that the term means items from a variety of cultures. Price points, too, fit a variety of budgets. “We wanted to have all the right items to cover our bases.”

The Chicken

in Southern Bang sauce and garnished with fresh chives) can be ordered as a starter or the main event.

↖

Bites (coated

gastro & gusto

The bar features classic cocktails with a twist, including selections from Walls Distilling Co., also located in the SoMo Walls complex. Demirel recommends trying one of the bar’s three espresso martinis; the Birds of Paradise, which is The Monroe’s take on a piña colada with blistered shishito pepper–infused rum; or the Mid Century, a whiskey sour with rosemary, lemon, ginger, sherry, and egg white.

THE ART OF IT

The management team has sought customer feedback during the early months of operation, tweaking the menu and operations to better suit the clientele.

“Everybody’s welcome, whether it’s game day, just a normal Tuesday, or a date with your boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse,” Demirel says. “We want to accommodate Tallahassee foodies with a good menu, good environment, and good service.” TM

THE MONROE

Located at 1327 South Monroe Street, Suite 5. For more information, call (448) 231-2965 or visit themonroetlh.com.

Repurposed shipping containers have become canvases within an openair walkable gallery of ever-changing murals. This latest addition to Tallahassee’s art walk culture is part of the newly constructed SoMo Walls complex on South Monroe Street, which is home to The Monroe restaurant, Walls Distilling Co., Burn Boot Camp, and Foxtail Coffee, as well as two tenants yet to be named. SoMo Walls—which caught the attention of the Urban Land Institute, recently winning its New Development Under $20 Million award at the North Florida Awards for Excellence gala—follows in the footsteps of Miami-Dade’s Wynwood Walls, which transformed 10 blocks of warehouses into a destination for outdoor art, galleries, shops, and restaurants. “[SoMo Walls] mirrors not just Wynwood but revitalization projects across the United States,” says developer Bugra Demirel. “There are projects in Detroit, L.A., New York, and Atlanta that were historically underinvested in [but became] targets of creative real estate concepts that integrated a sense of place and entertainment into the design and turned the project into a success story.” Tenants can select the muralist to paint the exteriors of their spaces, and local artists have lent talents to mural and sculpture installations. Demirel says they’ve only just begun, with eight new projects in the works. somowallstlh.com

PHOTOS

↖↑ The Birds of Paradise (left) oﬀers a tropical escape for your palate. This cocktail features a blend of coconut cream, pineapple, lemongrass, and the standout ingredient: shishito pepper–infused rum. Drift into relaxation with the Lazy River (center), a refreshing blend of tequila, herbal liquor, pineapple, and lime.

DINING IN

DIY SUSHI ROLLS

The art of creating a masterpiece

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

Making sushi at home is a fun and delicious culinary adventure. Whether you’re a novice chef or a seasoned professional, crafting sushi is a tactile way to explore your creativity. To ensure your sushi is both safe and satisfying, there are some key steps to follow, especially when handling raw sh.

Much like working with raw eggs and meat, safety is paramount when working with raw fish. Sushi-grade fish, which is the cornerstone of good sushi, requires careful selection and handling.

First, it’s crucial to purchase your fish from a reputable source that understands the specific requirements for sushi-grade fish. This usually means the fish is of the highest quality and has been handled with rigorous safety standards, from cleaning to storage.

“Sushi-grade fish is all about the handling,” explains Brett Easterling, manager at Southern Seafood Market. “The fish must be frozen and kept frozen at certain temperatures to be considered sushi-grade and safe for raw consumption.”

Keeping your fish cold is essential—and that continues throughout the process of making sushi. From the moment you pick it up to the moment you prepare it, the fish should be kept at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). Transport the fish from the store in a cooler with ice packs, and once home, store the fish in the coldest part of your refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. For easier, more precise cuts and slices, consider placing it in the freezer for a short while.

“I usually freeze my fish for 15 to 20 minutes before I slice it into pieces,” says Easterling, who frequently makes sushi at home. “Freezing it for a bit helps firm it up and gives it a better texture for slicing.”

↓ Keeping ﬁsh cold is essential. From the moment you pick it up to the moment you prepare it, the ﬁsh should be kept at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). 32 

Tuna, salmon, and yellowtail are popular choices for sushi, but a variety of other ﬁsh will also work well. Ask your ﬁshmonger for recommendations.

gastro & gusto

Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat.

SUSHI RICE

Cleanliness is another critical factor and an important step in sushi making.

“Before you even begin preparing your sushi, make sure all your utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized,” Easterling says.

Cross-contamination is a serious risk when dealing with raw fish, so never skip this step. Additionally, many experts recommend freezing fish at -4 degrees Fahrenheit (-20 degrees Celsius) for at least a week to kill any existing

parasites. Some sushi-grade fish might already be pre-frozen, but confirm this with your supplier.

When it comes to selecting the right fish, there are certain indicators of freshness to be aware of. Look for bright, clear eyes. Dull or sunken eyes can indicate poor handling or that the fish is no longer fresh. The flesh should be firm and springy, with a vibrant color free of brown spots or discoloration. Smell also matters. Fresh fish have a clean, ocean-like scent, not a strong, fishy odor.

Tuna, salmon, and yellowtail are popular choices for sushi, but a variety of other fish will also work well. Ask your fishmonger for recommendations—they can guide you to the freshest and safest options available.

Once you’ve selected your fish, the next step is preparing sushi rice. Sushi rice has a unique, slightly sticky texture that holds everything together, making it an essential component of your rolls. To make sushi rice, rinse the rice under cold water until the water

↑ Sushi rice has a unique, slightly sticky texture that holds everything together, making it an essential component of your rolls. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently stir in the vinegar mixture using a wooden spatula. Be careful not to mash the rice; mashing will ruin its texture, which is essential to good sushi.

runs clear; this removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky. After rinsing, cook the rice according to your preferred method, either in a rice cooker or on the stovetop.

While the rice is cooking, prepare the seasoning. Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently stir in the vinegar mixture using a wooden spatula. Be careful not to mash the rice; mashing will ruin its texture, which is essential to good sushi. Next, allow the rice to cool slightly before using it. It should be slightly warm but not hot when you’re ready to assemble your sushi.

When selecting ﬁsh, look for bright, clear eyes. Dull or sunken eyes can indicate poor handling or that the ﬁsh is no longer fresh.

VINEGAR MIXTURE

↑ Whether you’ve chosen slices of fresh ﬁsh, crunchy vegetables, or creamy avocado, don’t overstuﬀ the roll as this can make it challenging to roll properly.

Now comes the fun part: rolling your sushi. To start, prepare your workspace by laying a bamboo sushi rolling mat on a clean surface. Cover it with plastic wrap to prevent sticking, and have a bowl of water nearby to dip your hands in, as this will help keep the rice from sticking to your fingers.

Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat. (The rough side will help the rice adhere better.) Wet your hands, and spread a layer of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about an inch of space at the top edge. This space will help seal the roll. Arrange your fillings—whether you’ve chosen slices of fresh fish, crunchy vegetables, or creamy avocado—in a line across the center of the rice. Don’t overstuff the roll, as this can make it challenging to roll properly.

Using the bamboo mat, lift the edge of the nori closest to you and fold it over the fillings, tucking them in tightly. Continue rolling, applying gentle pressure to shape the roll as you go. Once you’ve reached the top edge of the nori, dampen it with a little water to seal the roll.

Finally, slice your roll into bite-size pieces using a sharp knife. To ensure clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between each slice. And voilà—your very own homemade sushi, ready to eat with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. TM

WINTER WHITE RUSSIAN

INGREDIENTS:

➸ 4 oz. milk of choice

➸ 1 oz. nonalcoholic vodka

➸ 1½ oz. espresso (can substitute cold brew or iced coffee)

MOCKTAIL MIXER

story by PAIGE AIGRET || recipes by KAKI MENSER

Add a fun twist to your New Year’s resolution with ﬂavorful nonalcoholic cocktails

There’s no better way to embrace the winter season than cozying up with a book and a good drink. This smooth and creamy nonalcoholic version of a White Russian will give you that serotonin boost you need after the hustle and bustle of the holidays and have you feeling content staying in for the night—you’ve earned it!

➸ ½ oz. simple syrup (can substitute maple syrup)

➸ 1-2 drops vanilla extract

➸ ¾ oz. heavy cream

➸ Chocolate sauce (for the glass)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake contents well. Set aside and grab a clean glass. Drizzle chocolate sauce around the inside of the glass. Add fresh ice, then strain mixture into your chocolate-garnished glass.

Mocktails—aka nonalcoholic cocktails— have become one of the latest health trends among millennials and Gen Z, but they’re perfect for everyone, regardless of age. With New Year’s resolutions top of mind, now is the time to hop on the mocktail train with these delicious recipes.

photography by GYORGY

All of the delight with none of the alcohol— here are four mocktails to get your “Dry January” challenge oﬀ to a good start.

PHOTOS STYLED BY JULES ARON

IMMUNE BOOST

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, are available year-round but reach peak season in the winter months through early spring. Providing vitamin C, citrus fruits offer the immune boost we all need after flu season and holiday travels. Probiotic-rich kombucha can also help with your immune system and offers an energy boost. This light and refreshing recipe will help give you a healthy taste of spring weather to come.

INGREDIENTS:

➸ ½ oz. lemon juice

➸ 3 oz. orange juice

➸ 2 oz. carrot juice

➸ ½ oz. simple syrup or sweetener of choice

➸ Ginger-lemon kombucha

INSTRUCTIONS:

Add a scoop of ice and all ingredients except the kombucha to a cocktail shaker. Shake thoroughly to combine. Strain the drink into a serving glass filled with ice. Fill the remainder to the top with kombucha. Garnish with lemon or orange slices.

STRAWBERRY CRUSH

This simple and sweet mocktail says everything you can’t find the words to say to your valentine. No crush? No problem. This pink drink is sure to be a hit at the Galentine’s party! Make a round for the group, or create a drink station with the ingredients and themed garnishes.

INGREDIENTS:

➸ 2 oz. strawberry puree

➸ 2 oz. prepared coconut creme (can substitute canned coconut cream, blended)

➸ 1 oz. lime juice

➸ Nonalcoholic sparkling rosé

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and fill the shaker with ice. Shake well and pour all ingredients and ice into a glass. Top with your favorite nonalcoholic sparkling rosé or zero-proof wine. Garnish with fresh strawberries. Cheers to sweet love!

gastro & gusto

ORDER UP

If you find yourself out on the town as the night’s designated driver or simply want something hydrating to sip on between dance floor grooves, the mocktail is the perfect solution. A recent spike in mocktail popularity has landed the not-so-boozy drinks a spot on many bar menus.

If you don’t find what you’re looking for, don’t feel pressured to settle for a cola. Bartenders are familiar with the mocktail craze and are often happy to accommodate. Simply ask your bartender for a virgin or mocktail version of your go-to drink. Or, describe the flavor profile you want and let them work their magic. Some bars and restaurants offer mocktails made with nonalcoholic spirits. So, if an allergy is of concern, be sure to let your bartender know.

Now there’s nothing holding you back from raising a glass to that inevitable speech coming from your friend group’s favorite extrovert. Cheers! TM

Kaki Menser is a seasoned party planner and Emerald Coast bartender with 15 years of experience in the service industry. When she’s not hosting her annual holiday parties and get-togethers or planning weddings and events, you can find her slinging drinks at Bud & Alley’s in Seaside or at Boshamp’s in Destin.

KIWI HYDRATION MOCKARITA

In preparation for Florida’s inevitable early spring and warm days, hydration is key. Kiwi is one winter fruit that flavorfully hints at spring’s tropical promise. Paired with lime, this refresher offers a healthy mix of antioxidants all in one drink.

INGREDIENTS:

➸ 1 kiwi peeled and cut into slices

➸ 1¾ oz. zeroproof tequila

➸ 1½ oz. lime juice

➸ ½ oz. orange juice

➸ Agave, to taste

➸ Coarse salt for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

Start by salting the rim of your glass. In the cocktail shaker, muddle two or three slices of kiwi. Combine the rest of the ingredients into the shaker. Add a scoop of ice and then shake the cocktail thoroughly. Fill your salted glass with fresh ice and the remaining kiwi slices. Strain your “mockarita” into the glass.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival

Premier festival continues to offer superior sips

The beloved South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is leveling up this year, filling attendees’ cups with wines from the prestigious Napa Valley Vintners. As a premier wine and food festival in the region, guests can sip and sample over 600 fine wines, spirits, and cuisine with a featured tent dedicated to bringing the flavors of Napa Valley to the Emerald Coast.

The thirteenth annual South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival will take place the weekend of April 24-27, spanning the streets of Grand Boulevard’s Town Center. This signature event treats attendees with access to some of the finest winemakers, distillers, brewers, and chefs in the country by taking part in tastings, educational

seminars, and culinary stations all in support of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, benefitting local children’s charities.

The festival begins on Thursday, April 24, with the Winemakers & Shakers event from 5-7 p.m. VIP guests begin Friday with the VIP Tasting from 4-6 p.m. with an extensive, rare library of wines ready for tasting, and a Taste of Grand Boulevard, featuring toptiered bites from Grand Boulevard’s exciting array of restaurants. Friday continues with the Craft Cocktail Competition. This event, taking place from 5:30-8 p.m., offers a vibrant party vibe with national and area bartenders mixing unique and customized libations to taste and judge. Delicious food and live music by Forrest Williams Band.

The main event, The Grand Tasting, will take place on Saturday from 3-6 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Attendees stroll the streets tasting hundreds of varieties of wines from throughout the world, poured by knowledgeable wine industry leaders and sommeliers.

For the first year, the festival has the honor of welcoming the Napa Valley Vintners in their own dedicated tent. This esteemed organization will bring 15 of the region’s best wineries to provide tastes of some of the world’s most coveted wines.

“We are thrilled to welcome Napa Valley Vintners and excited to have attendees try something new and different that they will fall in love with,” says Stacey Brady, executive director of South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival. “Having them be a part of our event shows this festival’s credibility and influence within the industry.”

Back for a second year by popluar demand, another applauded wine region, Willamette Valley, will have a dedicated tent pouring from more than a dozen renowned Oregon winemakers.

There will be four total seminars, two on Saturday and two on Sunday, which provide guests with the opportunity to hear from seasoned winemakers and distillers while being treated to tastings that can’t be found anywhere else at the festival.

Between glasses, visit the Culinary Village and Nosh Pavilions for provisions provided by some of the best restaurants and chefs in the region.

Throughout the weekend, the soothing sounds and soulful croons of songwriters will be heard from stages from the Nashville Songwriters Showcase, brought in by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association.

In its thirteenth year, the festival felt it was due for a marketing rebrand, which will be revealed as an exciting new element that

promotes and furthers the reach of this already prestigious event.

“We are excited to show off the next iteration of what the festival looks and feels like through this rebrand,” said Brady. “Each year, we continue to offer more exclusive opportunities for our guests to experience.”

→

In addition to being a Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Professor and Nancy Smith Fichter Professor of Dance at Florida State University, Jawole Willa Jo Zollar is the founder of Urban Bush Women.

FORTY YEARS OF URBAN BUSH WOMEN

FSU professor and founder of famed dance company is still ‘telling the truth’ ↓

by MARINA BROWN

JAN/FEB 2025

KEEPING TABS ON ALL THAT MUSES INSPIRE

ART Lily Kemp || BOOKS

Jawole Willa Jo Zollar is a risktaker. Soft-spoken and elegant, she is confident in the choices she has made in the past and the legacy she is overseeing for the future.

In addition to being a Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Professor and Nancy Smith Fichter Professor of Dance at Florida State University, Zollar is the founder of Urban Bush Women (UBW), a worldrenowned dance company that uses cultural expression as a catalyst for social change—and the world has taken notice.

In 2024, Urban Bush Women marked its fortieth year as a company celebrating the “power of dance” seen in the African diaspora. During its four-decade history, UBW has toured five continents, inaugurated state department programs for cultural diplomacy, created works for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and Philadanco, and performed nationally at theaters

from the Los Angeles Music Center’s Mark Taper Forum to the Brooklyn Academy of Music.

But how did a little girl born in inner-city Kansas come to found a New York-based dance company, become a professor at a major university, receive dozens of national awards, and hold four honorary doctorates from the likes of Columbia College Chicago, Tufts, Rutgers, and Muhlenberg College?

Zollar herself simply smiles and says, “I just followed my love of dance.”

Dance was always in the picture.

Zollar says that her mother had been a cabaret dancer in the 1930s, and her children were provided “community

...

↗ Jawole Willa Jo Zollar on FSU campus where she teaches dance. ↖ Zollar performing in SCAT!

The Complex Lives of Al & Dot, Dot & Al Zollar, a dance-driven musical she conceived, directed, and choreographed, that tells the love story of two people making their way during the Great Migration.

dance lessons.” One teacher was the then-famous jazz dancer Pepsi Bethel, an African American performer known for elevating the Lindy Hop to the stage.

Little Jawole performed in recitals and marched in her school’s drill team, already knowing when she headed to college that she wanted to continue dancing.

“I actually came late to the formal study of dance,” she says. Ballet and modern dance forms hadn’t been emphasized, but she loved the “rigor” of study. When Zollar received her degree from the University of Missouri in Kansas City, she says: “I really had no goal—I only knew I needed, and wanted, to study more.”

Zollar earned her MFA in dance at Florida State, where she “fell in love with Tallahassee—its trees and Spanish moss.” She also became familiar with a type of racism she had not experienced before, but the greater world was calling.

Zollar began studies with the brilliant African American dance pioneer Dianne McIntyre. Working as a hat check girl, an apartment cleaner, and other studysupporting jobs in the Big Apple, Zollar was not only perfecting her craft, but in 1984, she started inviting others to participate in her own ensemble that would become Urban Bush Women.

Using mostly percussion and voice, UBW explores feminist themes, racism, sexism, abortion, homelessness … even “hair.”

↗ Urban Bush Women in Women’s Resistance and ↓ I Don’t Know, but I Been Told, If You Keep on Dancin’ You Never Grow Old. UBW began in New York City on June 30, 1984, selfpresented by Zollar.

“UBW uses African aesthetics to speak about the experiences of Black people—truth-telling is behind what we do.”

— Jawole Willa Jo Zollar

“UBW uses African aesthetics to speak about the experiences of Black people—truth-telling is behind what we do,” Zollar says. In more than 50 dance works, she has told those stories. Meanwhile, she has not mentioned any of her awards: the Doris Duke Performing Artist Award; the Dance/USA Honor Award; the “Bessie” Lifetime Achievement in Dance Award; the 2021 John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Fellow; the 2022 APAP Honors Award of Merit for Achievement in the Performing Arts; the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize; the 2024 Samuel H. Scripps American Dance Festival Award for lifetime achievement; and many, many more.

Instead, Zollar talks about the fortieth anniversary season of UBW, titled “This Is Risk.” She relinquished the running of the company during COVID, but the original risk taker has no plans for cutting back.

“We’re still spreading the gospel of dance,” she says.

And the rest of us are the grateful beneficiaries. TM

A NEW PATH FORWARD

Artist Lily Kemp has turned her passion into a bona ﬁde career opportunity

by SARA SANTORA

Lily Kemp arrived at the Chicken Salad Chick on Market Street one Sunday afternoon eager to buy lunch, but the establishment was closed. Hungry, she set out to find an alternative eatery. But then she had another thought: “I could go find a job,” she reasoned.

Still dressed in church clothes, she walked next door to Hearth & Soul and inquired about a position. As fate would have it, the boutique needed a customer service representative, and Kemp fit the bill. She secured the job and then, months later, secured something even greater—she became one of Hearth & Soul’s artist partners.

From July through September 2024, her paintings were displayed at the store. During that time, she sold several pieces, solidifying her status as a bona fide professional artist, something she never thought possible.

“It’s crazy,” she says of the whole experience. Kemp is no stranger to the closed-door, open-window philosophy. You know the one: if God closes a door, he opens a window. An interior design student at Florida State University, she’s always had a penchant for art. But, she was also a dedicated lacrosse player and initially enrolled at FSU as an exercise physiology major. She was determined to pursue athletics and keep art as a hobby; however, several concussions—six in two years, to be exact—forced Kemp to alter her plans.

↗ When it became apparent sports was no longer the path for her, Lily Kemp thought: “Might as well do something creative.”

ART

Frequent headaches interfered with her ability to concentrate and do schoolwork. As a result, she had to drop several classes during her freshman year at FSU. Deciding she “didn’t want to be in school forever,” she made the difficult decision to “put her brain first,” and she quit her club lacrosse team and began actively pursuing her art.

“I thought doing anything creative— painting or interior design—could never make any money,” Kemp says. But when it became apparent sports was no longer the path for her, she thought: “Might as well do something creative.”

Despite concerns about the practicality of an art education, she quickly realized that she was on the right track.

“I was never in love with school,” Kemp admitted. However, she’s enjoyed her twoto three-hour-long art classes. “You can be creative, and it makes more sense to me than, ‘Memorize this stuff, and take a test on it.’”

Kemp’s work is “based on the little beauties of this life,” according to her Instagram bio. She’s painted portraits for friends and family and even landed a custom project for a gourmet ramen restaurant in Ohio. But she’s particularly drawn to creating beachy, summerinspired scenes, something she started doing in her AP art class in high school.

↖ Part of what makes Kemp’s work stand out is her use of color. She tends to use a more muted palette than what’s typically associated with tropical art.

TALLAHASSEE MAGAZINE’S

TALLAHASSEE of 2024 Hair Salon/ Studio

“We had to pick a concentration, and everyone was picking these meaningful topics, like the struggles of being a woman,” Kemp says. “But I chose summer because I wasn’t in love with school, and summer was when I could go to the beach and hang out with my friends.”

Part of what makes Kemp’s work stand out is her use of color. She tends to use a more muted palette than what’s typically associated with tropical art. This is especially true of the paintings she displayed in Hearth & Soul.

“Everything I put in the store I made thinking, ‘Okay, what’s summery, but also what’s something someone would actually want to put in their house?’” she says. “If I were an interior designer, I don’t think I’d necessarily want neon or super bright colors if [going for] a homey, rustic feel. I’m drawn more toward that, and it’s a similar style to Hearth & Soul.”

When discussing the future, Kemp says she looks forward to taking commissions, finishing school, and seeing where her interior design degree takes her. And, of course, she plans to make the progression of her artistic skills a top priority.

“I would love to get so much better at art,” she says. “I love realism and looking at a painting and wondering, ‘Is it a painting? Is it not a painting?’ Being able to fool the eye is such a crazy talent.”

For Kemp, the future is bright and undoubtedly full of lots of open doors—and windows. TM

↖↑ Kemp’s work is “based on the little beauties of this life,” according to her Instagram bio.

NEW YEAR, NEW READING LIST

CKick oﬀ 2025 with one of these booksellerapproved reads by

SARA SANTORA

urling up with a good book at the end of a long day is one of life’s finest pleasures. Whether you want to escape reality or build better habits, good books can take you wherever you want to go in life, in dreams, in imagination … anywhere.

To help you find your next great read, Tallahassee Magazine asked the teams at two local booksellers to recommend titles, both fiction and nonfiction, they feel readers should dive into this New Year. So, sit down, relax, and get ready to add to your TBR pile.

We’re fans of nonfiction that reads like fiction, and this immersive journey is the perfect start. Opening with a letter from her mother about the day she was born, Elizabeth grapples with her desire to have children amid a quickly thawing landscape. Read this for an expedition, a reflection on science and the earth around us, and a love letter to the family we create.

Let’s be honest; New Year’s resolutions are terrifying. Margo can relate. This is a laughout-loud novel about one young woman’s attempt to “adult” in a world that seems like it’s against her. If you’re looking for an almost-too-relatable New Year’s book, then this is for you.

From the author of The Midnight Library comes this beautiful, affirming, and fantastical novel. When retired math teacher Grace Winters is left a run-down house on a Mediterranean island by a long-lost friend, curiosity gets the better of her. Read this for a hopeful start to the New Year.

MIDTOWN READER ↑

Locally owned and operated by Sally Bradshaw, Midtown Reader offers a little something for everyone—romance lovers, history buffs, creative writers, and more. With a “piebrary” full of treats, a jam-packed events calendar, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff, Midtown Reader invites Tallahasseeans to drop in and “read, think, and share.”

1123 Thomasville Road || midtownreader.com

↑ THE QUICKENING BY ELIZABETH RUSH

Book description provided by Sally Bradshaw, owner

Book description provided by Julia Robbie, barista

Book description provided by Kristin Kehl, manager

↑ THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLE BY MATT HAIG

↑ MARGO’S GOT MONEY TROUBLES BY RUFI THORPE

Dr. Lauren Combs

A GOOD CAUSE

Fat Cat Books is a proud member of Hannah Shaw’s Orphan Kitten Club, a nonproﬁt dedicated to supporting neonatal kittens via “kitten programs,” medical grants, ethical research, and much more. Visit orphankittenclub.org for more information.

Another great book for kids and grownups alike. Each letter of the alphabet tells the story of a local musician, venue, or musical genre, with rich illustrations by 26 Tallahassee artists, including beloved Fat Cat Books supporter Diane Dyal, whose original, delightful paintings and notebooks can be found at Fat Cat Books.

Each book in this four-book series tells a fictional story from an animal’s perspective of finding a forever home. Fat Cat Books’ personal favorite, Adventures in Fosterland: Baby Badger, contains adorable illustrations by Bev Johnson and is available from KittenLady.org, where you can also learn about Shaw’s animal welfare advocacy.

Finally, VanderMeer’s awardwinning Southern Reach series is expanding with a fourth novel: Absolution. VanderMeer’s immersive fiction series transports the reader to Area X, where nature is central to the post-apocalyptic mystery. The author’s passion for nature and the weirdness of life result in a story that converts the reader to a stowaway traveler.

DID YOU KNOW?

The New York Times bestselling author Jeﬀ VanderMeer has lived in Tallahassee since 1992. A passionate environmentalist, he regularly shares photos of his rewilded yard on social media. Find him on Instagram @jeﬀ_vandermeer123

FAT

CAT BOOKS ↑

Fat Cat Books is a nonprofit used bookstore and cat adoption center in the Railroad Square Art District. In addition to its shelves of used books, Fat Cat Books is inhabited by adoptable adult cats, all from the Feline Advocates of Leon County (FALC). Because the store’s books are donated by the community, we can’t guarantee or really even predict what treasures await. The recommendations here reflect Fat Cat Books’ mutual support and admiration for animal rescue, local artists, and great stories. —Gloria Alvarez, FALC Board of Directors 615 Railroad Square, Unit 5 || facebook.com/falccatstlh

Book descriptions provided by Gloria Alvarez

↑ ADVENTURES IN FOSTERLAND BY HANNAH SHAW, AKA KITTEN LADY

↑ ABSOLUTION BY JEFF VANDERMEER

↑ T IS FOR TALLAHASSEE FROM THE TALLAHASSEE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Does happiness seem like a feeling you chase after but never quite reach?

The good news is this: happiness is always available to us, though it’s often buried beneath layers of thoughts and emotions. Want to learn to reconnect with a happy state of mind? Experts offer 20 simple ways to tap into happiness.

By Paige Bowers and Kelley Marcellus

FIND YOUR FOCUS

To start yourself on the road to happiness, says Marcy Sizemore, the founder and principal coach with Olive Orchard Coaching & Consulting in Thomasville, Georgia, take stock of where you are and where you’d like to be. Then, “work on creating forward motion through real, speciﬁc, tangible goals,” she says. Consider making a list of things that will make you happy, from keeping your house tidier to spending more time with friends and family to volunteering with a local organization. Sizemore suggests setting small goals as checkpoints on the way to achieving the larger one. The path, she says, likely won’t be a straight line. “Expect to zig and zag,” she says, but in the long-term, focus can help you “move forward in a way aligned with your values.”

GO FOR GRATITUDE

That’s what Lee Collier, founder of the Joy Squad, a Tallahassee-based nonprofit organization with the goal of spreading joy, did when she and many of her friends were feeling down during the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Happiness is a choice,” says Collier. “You can elect to be doom and gloom, or you can make the internal choice to count your blessings.” Dedicate a few minutes each day to making simple journal entries of the things you’re thankful for. If writing isn’t your jam, try using a mala—a string of 108 beads from the Buddhist and Hindu traditions—to name one thing you’re thankful for as your fingers move across each bead. While 108 may seem like a big number, remember to notice and appreciate the small things (the breeze through the trees, the food that nourishes you, the ground beneath your feet), and you’ll find your list expands in proportion to your gratefulness.

SHARE THE MOMENT

“Step one [of ﬁnding happiness] is to get out and get into a social setting,” says Dr. Svenja Wolf, an assistant professor of sports psychology at Florida State University who oversees the school’s Laboratory for Emotions in Groups and Organizations (LEGO). Wolf believes that cultural events are a great starting point. Listening to music at home, for example, might feel like an uplifting activity, but by attending a concert, “your feelings are validated by others who feel the same way,” she says. “Groups have properties that can magnify your emotional state.” So, give pickleball, a knitting circle, or a live theater performance a try.

ENGAGE YOUR SENSES

“There’s some really cool research on nostalgia as an emotion,” Wolf says. “It’s proven to be powerful to combat feelings of loneliness and increase the pleasant effects by remembering good times.” Wolf suggests making an effort to be fully present in happy experiences—taking in the sights, sounds, scents, and feelings—so that you can re-create the scene at a future moment and relive the uplifting moment. “It’s a great idea because you are going to enjoy the first experience, but then you’ll get to relive it,” she adds. “It’s almost like getting two birds with one stone.”

OWN YOUR OM

HAVE A LAUGH

Thanks to new research into neuroplasticity, we now know that one’s happiness set point (the level of happiness that we naturally feel) can be altered. Meditation thickens the areas of the brain that help us to process uncomfortable situations, as well as shrinks the amygdala, the part of the brain that’s activated under stress. Meditating for as little as two minutes a day leads to a calmer mind, improved cognition, and better self-awareness. Try an in-person meditation class at a local studio, or download guided meditation apps like Headspace and Calm. If you’re a person who likes tech feedback, check out the Hyperice Core, a meditation gadget that uses vibrations to center your attention. Core’s biosensors also give you real-time feedback by measuring your heart rate variability, which is your leading indicator of wellness.

that can reduce stress and make you feel happier. If traditional cardio isn’t your thing, don’t despair.

Researchers at the University of Derby found that depressed patients who took salsa lessons reported improved moods; a similar Australian study found that people who tangoed for 20 minutes felt happier and had lower levels of stress hormones than people who sat on the sidelines.

Making yourself smile (even when you might not feel like it) has a mood-boosting eﬀect. The muscles used to turn a frown upside down actually send signals to your brain that you’re happy, which can spur the body to release hormones like dopamine and serotonin. This phenomenon, known as the facial feedback hypothesis, doesn’t mean you have to plaster a fake smile on your face. But the next time you’re feeling low, try cracking a smile and see what happens. Laughter produces similar results, so watch a funny YouTube video, listen to a humor podcast, or stream a comedy special the next time you need a mood lift.

HUG IT OUT

A research study published in the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior found that people who were consistently hugged over a twoweek period reported being in a better overall mood. Not only does hugging reduce stress levels and unleash feel-good hormones like oxytocin, but it also makes people feel less lonely, which increases their sense of well-being. Based on research in what’s known as deep touch pressure therapy, a product like HugSleep’s Sleep Pod oﬀers cocooning, hug-life comfort that stimulates the brain in the same way a traditional hug does.

holding onto grudges increases

anger and bitterness, making

moment. Letting go of a grudge is not the same experience as forgiveness—in which you replace a negative judgment of a person or situation with a positive feeling. Instead, moving on from a grudge might conjure indiﬀerence instead of positivity; you don’t need to feel warm and fuzzy toward a person who wronged you to avoid letting negative feelings control your life. Take time to consider the perspective of the person who wronged you, and you’ll have a better understanding of what might have contributed to the situation at hand.

BE KIND TO OTHERS

Research shows that acts of kindness can have a signiﬁcant impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety and increasing feelings of well-being. Consider small acts of kindness that can be done on a regular basis. This might include volunteering in the community, oﬀering a listening ear to a friend in need, or simply taking a few moments to tell the people in your life how much they mean to you.

BUILD YOUR TRIBE

“Seeing your feelings validated in others makes you feel good, no matter what,” Wolf says. “The reﬂection can be a really positive thing because it creates a sense of oneness, and there is an innate need for aﬃliation.” Whether it’s joining a book club or a running club, being part of something helps you feel less alone and surrounded by people who share your interests.

“Engaging in a shared experience can form a sense of togetherness,” she adds. Companionship doesn’t have to be limited to other humans.

CREATE A JUDGMENTFREE ZONE

Pets can oﬀer similar beneﬁts, according to multiple studies.

In the Buddhist tradition, our attachments are the cause of suﬀering because all things can change—or disappear—in an instant. One way to practice nonattachment is to get rid of the idea that certain people, thoughts, etc. “should” or “must” be a certain way. When you look at your life without that judgment, it is easier to go with the ﬂow. Work to release yourself from the happiness that comes from external things like clothing, cars, or food. You don’t have to sell everything you own and become a monk or a nun to practice non-attachment; you just need to embrace the importance of letting go.

GET OUTSIDE

TAKE A BREAK FROM TECH

Technology—whether in the form of an internet search or a social media app—can sometimes be the ﬁrst step in making a connection, but when we put down our phones or step away from our computers, we can recoup from the constant ping of emails or negative news. “There’s nothing that can replace in-person communication,” the Joy Squad’s Collier says. Sizemore adds that technology can be useful in helping you organize your goals and plan your day, but it can just as easily derail. “If technology is the boss of you, it’s a negative,” she says. “If technology is a support instead of a derailment, it can be a positive intentional choice.” If you struggle with self-control when it comes to scrolling, use a lockbox like this one from Mindsight that allows users to lock their phones away for as little as a minute or as long as 30 days.

The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is the simple act of getting into nature, observing it, and breathing deeply. According to health care company Kaiser Permanente, studies have shown that spending 10 to 20 minutes a day outside doing something like gardening, listening to the sound of waves at the beach, or walking in a park can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and levels of stress hormones.

REPLACE TRIGGERS WITH GLIMMERS

Be aware of your triggers (things that make you feel sad or anxious)—like certain social media feeds, that friend who always seems to go on better trips, or a relative who puts you down—and avoid them. Replace those with glimmers (things that spark joy) like walking with a friend who makes you laugh, feeling the sun on your shoulders, or curling up with a new book.

CHECK YOUR BODY LANGUAGE

The expressions we wear are the ﬁrst form of social feedback we give to those we encounter, and they set the tone for our interactions with others. “If you go to an event and you don’t look at anyone and act protectively of yourself, you’re unlikely to share any part of the experience,” Wolf says. “When we smile at other people, they’re likely to smile back at us, and that feedback can actually make you feel happier.”

KEEP IT UP

PUT YOUR PURPOSE INTO PRACTICE

A National Institutes of Healthfunded study showed that those who expressed having clear goals or a purpose lived up to seven years longer than those who did not. To find your sense of purpose, make a list of your mental, emotional, and physical talents. Then reflect on what you like to do and where you can use those skills. Maybe it’s tutoring students in math or volunteering at the Humane Society. Find places where you can contribute and make a difference.

DON’T DELAY

Fight the urge to wait to seek happiness (think: “I’ll be happier when I lose 10 pounds”). Happiness comes from appreciating what you have in the present moment. Making your happiness conditional on something you don’t have and may not get is counterproductive. Redirect your thinking by noting the

BE REALISTIC

Recognize that you won’t always be happy in every moment—and that’s normal. Whether you’ve received bad news, are running late, or somebody hurt your feelings, take a moment to acknowledge that the frustration, fear, or anger you feel is not permanent. Allow yourself to experience it, and then shift your focus toward what made you feel this way and what it might take to recover. Then let the moment pass, and take care of yourself. But remember: if you are struggling to reframe your thoughts, it’s important to seek someone to talk to.

Like anything else, happiness is a habit, and research tells us that it takes time and dedication to build any habit you want to see through long-term. Consider the 21/90 Rule, which is based on studies that show that it takes 21 days to make a habit and 90 days to turn that habit into a permanent lifestyle change. Commit to making happiness your goal for 21 days, or start small and adopt any one of these suggested practices. Push past that initial 21-day period to 90 days, and active happiness will become a part of your lifestyle.

The of Brian McMullen of Browns Kitchen encourages novice chefs to have fun and try, try again

BY SARA SANTORA

Joy Cooking

In her bestselling book, My Life in France legendary chef Julia Child said the one piece of “invariable advice” she often gave to people was to “learn how to cook.”

“Try new recipes,” she wrote, “learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all, have fun!”

that year—the largest percentage ever observed in the data series. While food-at-home spending also increased (from $1 trillion to $1.1 trillion), this difference does indicate a return to a preference for eating out, following a spike in the popularity of cooking at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many factors contributing to this shift. For one, food-delivery apps have made ordering takeout and securing seats at restaurants easier than ever. Furthermore, with stress levels surging among American adults, cooking can start to feel like

“If you mess it up, so what? Nothing bad is going to happen from you trying something new and it going wrong.”

Brian McMullen, in-house chef and class coordinator for Browns Kitchen

a daunting task rather than a fun and accessible form of self-care.

Brian McMullen, in-house chef and class coordinator for Browns Kitchen, recognizes that cooking is scary for a lot of people—that the fear of messing up or wasting time and money on a meal that ends up inedible can take the joy out of the process. But, like Julia Child before him, he encourages everyone to keep at it.

“It’s food, you know? In the end, we’re just eating it. It’s not an exam where you’re being judged. … Just try to have fun,” he says. “If you mess it up, so what? Nothing bad is going to happen from you trying something new and it going wrong.”

McMullen’s passion for cooking was ignited at a young age, thanks to his maternal grandmother.

“She was the most incredible cook in the entire world,” he says. Born and raised in Japan, “she used a lot of her training and expertise cooking Japanese food and applied it to Southern cooking. The hybrid of the two [resulted] in some of the most incredible stuff you’ve ever had.”

He accepted his first kitchen job in middle school, starting “where all people start”—in the dish pit. Over the years, he worked at various restaurants and food trucks and made his way through the ranks, from prep cook to line cook to executive chef.

In 2016, he received his culinary arts degree from Keiser University before taking a brief hiatus from restaurants to work as a production manager at Lucky Goat Coffee and then as a brewer for an area brewing company. In late 2023, McMullen rejoined the culinary world with Browns Kitchen.

“Working in kitchens and certain restaurants, you find yourself cooking the same thing day in and day out—it got boring and stale and took away my passion for food,” McMullen says of his initial decision to leave the culinary industry. “I wasn’t having people over on the weekends, and I wasn’t cooking at home for myself anymore, so I ended up leaving.

Browns Kitchen’s cooking classes are designed to help everyone learn how to re-create their favorite dishes at home, regardless of experience level, as demonstrated by Shannon and Chris Smith, owners of Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse in Midtown, during their Class “From Starter to Slice: Sourdough Pizza.”

the Cookie Mommas prep cookies for their Spring and Easter Cookie Decorating Classes (left). bananas foster cakes (above) are by Chef Nikki Pettineo from a Halloween Beetlejuice-themed Cooking class. The croissants (right) are by Sylvia Scull, a pastry chef at The Hawthorn Bistro & Bakery.

“That break was really exciting for me because I used those years to regain my passion and have people over on Friday night or Sunday for a family dinner or Super Bowl party or whatever, and it was really nice to get that part of my life back,” he continues. “Browns has not only allowed me to flourish but also helped me rediscover my passion. Having all these chefs surrounding me and [watching] these unique classes we offer continues to grow my love for cooking even more.”

Browns Kitchen’s cooking classes are designed to help everyone learn how to re-create their favorite dishes at home, regardless of experience level. However, they’re particularly helpful to novice chefs who want

Join the Fun!

From cookie decorating to pasta making to glorious gumbo, Browns Kitchen offers a little something for everyone.

To sign up for a cooking class, visit brownskitchen.com. 2551 Capital Circle NE | (850) 385-5665

to cook more but are overwhelmed by the process. Classes provide foundational knowledge not typically found in online recipes and are led by chefs who can answer common questions like, “What happens if something goes wrong?” or, “Can I sub this ingredient for something else?”

Apart from taking classes, McMullen says there are a couple of things beginners can do at home

(continued on page 122)

abodes

TRENDS FROM FLOOR TO CEILING, FRONT TO BACK JAN/FEB 2025

Our guide to the myriad beneﬁts of living with houseplants, plus tips and tools for starting a collection of your own by ABIGAIL DUFFY → ATMOSPHERE

The POWER of PLANTS

Think of the last time you walked into a greenhouse or hiked through a dense forest. Did you take a deep breath in, luxuriating in how the air felt in your lungs?

Did you notice how a sense of calm washed over you?

You can reap some of the same bene ts from houseplants. A recent meta-analysis conducted by researchers at the Department of Landscape Architecture at the National Chin-Yi University of Technology found that houseplants positively impact basic human functions, “particularly those of relaxed physiology and enhanced cognition,” to include a reduction in diastolic blood pressure. This is bolstered by ndings (published in a 2015 issue of the Journal of Physiological Anthropology) that plant-related tasks can potentially reduce stress by suppressing the autonomic nervous system. Other studies and reviews have identi ed additional ways in which

living with plants may support physical, mental, and emotional health, such as a speedier recovery from illness, decreased fatigue, increased feelings of happiness, and improved attention span.

Houseplants also do wonders for their caretaker’s environment. Plants oxygenate the space around them, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen during photosynthesis. Furthermore, they humidify the air during transpiration (the process of a plant releasing water vapor from its leaves as a byproduct of absorbing water from soil), which has been shown to alleviate dry skin, soothe sinuses, and reduce allergies. Clustering plants together increases these e ects. If navigating the wild world of healthy houseplants is daunting, this guide to which ones to start with, how to nurture them, and more will help plant the seeds. It’s a jungle out there. Let’s explore.

Living with plants may support physical, mental, and emotional health, such as a speedier recovery from illness, decreased fatigue, increased feelings of happiness, and improved attention span.

↓ Clustering plants together increases their many healthsupporting eﬀects.

Tips for selecting the right plants to begin your home collection and how to care for them

PHILODENDRON

BRASIL

This heartleaf philodendron variety is a fast grower and easy to care for. It drapes beautifully and offers color variation thanks to light-green variegation on most leaves.

READY to GROW

ANTHURIUM

Most plant people have a story of heartbreak that involves an anthurium (or two). Though they have a finicky reputation, they do well if kept in cooler temperatures and planted in thicker soil that stays moist.

DIEFFENBACHIA

Dieffenbachias, or dumb canes, grow large and boast colorful foliage. There are more than a dozen commonly available varieties to choose from for the home.

RHIPSALIS

Also called mistletoe cactus, rhipsalis is similar to cacti but can tolerate low light.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Peek into any plant parent’s collection, and you’re sure to find ZZ plants, snake plants, and spider plants, all renowned for being hardy and supremely easy to care for.

CARE TIPS

WATERING

If the plants are being housed indoors, water once per week. Water lightly but consistently. Remember, underwatering is better than overwatering.

LIGHTING

Most houseplants thrive in bright but not direct light. Many new plant parents hear the term “indirect light,” but it can mean different things to different people. For example, some may think indirect means low light, which is not ideal for any plant. If natural light is an issue, grow lights are a great option.

FERTILIZER AND PEST TREATMENTS

Fertilize every month with Miracle-Gro or fish fertilizer and adhere to the instructions on the bottle to avoid going overboard. Two weeks after fertilizing, follow with a pest treatment (like watering plants with a dose of horticultural oil, which doubles as a topical leaf shine).

SOIL

Cocoa husk is the secret to a balanced soil mix. It absorbs moisture and allows for airflow, which prevents root rot (a consequence of overwatering). Try mixing cocoa husk with regular potting soil. Additional options include nutrient-rich additives like worm castings or anti-bacterial ones like horticultural charcoal.

Herb’s

THE WORD

Small but mighty, herbs pack a delicious and nutritious punch. Here are ﬁve unique options for a countertop herb garden.

BAY LAUREL

HOW TO GROW: Leaves from this Mediterranean broadleaf evergreen tree are usually dried and packaged as bay leaves. Grow your own by planting bay laurel in a container with well-draining potting mix for edible plants and place in a spot that receives at least five to six hours of bright light through a window.

BEST IN: Everything. From chicken soup to tomato sauce, stews, and roasted meats, bay leaves lend depth to whatever you toss them into.

CHERVIL

MAIN BENEFITS: Bay leaves contain immune-boosting vitamins C and E, as well as carotenoids that can help lower cholesterol.

DILL

HOW TO GROW: Plant dill seedlings in a deep pot with well-draining, slightly acidic soil for edible plants. Place in a window that receives five to six hours of sunlight per day, or under a grow light for 12 to 14 hours.

MINT

HOW TO GROW: Take mint cuttings and plant them in a deep pot with soil for edible plants that allows for water retention, but with enough air space to prevent sogginess. Place in a window that receives five to six hours of sunlight per day, or under a grow light for 12 to 14 hours. Mint grows best in milder temperatures, so keep indoor temps between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

BEST IN: Homemade pickles, salmon dishes, and yogurt-based sauces, like tzatziki

MAIN BENEFITS: Dill is a good source of vitamins C and A, as well as manganese.

BEST IN: Tea, watermelon salad, chutneys, ice cream, and, of course, mojitos

MAIN BENEFITS: Mint can help relieve indigestion. Derivative menthol can also alleviate cold symptoms, like congestion.

HOW TO GROW: This parsley relative is essential in French fines herbes and can be grown from seeds in a large, deep container filled with welldraining soil for edible plants, watering regularly. Chervil enjoys cooler temperatures and shadier conditions, so consider keeping it away from harsh sun and maintain indoor temps between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Some people even recommend growing it in a wine fridge.

BEST IN: Béarnaise sauce, vinaigrettes, salads, and poultry, egg, and fish dishes

LEMONGRASS

MAIN BENEFITS: Chervil contains calcium and potassium and is also rich in dietary fiber.

3 4 5

HOW TO GROW: Lemongrass crops are easy to start from propagations. Place leftover stalks in a glass with 3 inches of water, and move to a window that receives five to six hours of sunlight per day. Replenish water if levels drop. Once roots sprout, plant the stalks in well-draining potting mix for edible plants, ensuring that the crown is covered by soil.

BEST IN: Tea, stir-fries, and marinades

MAIN BENEFITS: Lemongrass contains quercetin, a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can slow cancer cell growth, lower cholesterol, and reduce one’s risk of heart disease.

INTERIORS

THE SWEET SPOT FOR SLEEP

A guide to catching some z’s

by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

We’ve all woken up on the wrong side of the bed. As the idiom suggests, this can put a person in an irritable mood for the day. To some, this may be a random occurrence, but for others, this can happen all too often.

The value of sleep is not a new sensation. For years, scientists, doctors, and even our parents have emphasized the importance of shut-eye for growth, immunity, cognitive function, stress reduction, and countless other bene ts. Yet, many of us still sleep poorly.

Money may not be able to buy everything, but it can purchase you better sleep. If you’re tossing and turning even on nights when your stress levels aren’t high, it’s likely time for a mattress upgrade.

↘ The quickest way to stop counting sheep and start gaining sleep is to invest in the surface you sleep on.

↓↘ There are mattresses and bases with apps that track your sleep and can play music or white noise.

Shown here: Tempurpedic LuxeBreeze Soft Split King on a Temper-Ergo Smart Base.

“Sleeping on the wrong mattress can cause aches, pain, restlessness, and poor quality of sleep,” says Katie Kahn, general manager of King’s Furniture & Mattress Co. Inc. in Destin.

We live in a world where online shopping reigns, but when it comes to mattress shopping, it’s critical you give them a rest test in person.

“Comfort is subjective, and if you get the recommended eight hours of sleep a night, that means you spend a third of your

time in bed,” says Kahn. “We encourage you to lie down and feel the di erence.”

Where plush may sound luxuriant, it could end up being too cloud-like, which in turn provides no support and could leave you in pain. On the opposite end, too rm of a mattress may make for a miserable night’s sleep.

“When you come in and test a bed, your body will tell you what’s working,” says Mike Munroe, owner of MaysMunroe & The Sleep Center in Tallahassee. “The two most important things you must feel from a mattress are comfort and support.”

Munroe claims this is why they sell mostly medium hybrid mattresses that merge plush and rm with coil and memory foam. This is an especially preferred option for couples who seek consensus.

Mays-Munroe takes sleep seriously, creating an atmosphere of peace and relaxation in their sleep center to transport you to the right mindset with dimmed lights, pillow protectors, soft music, and lavender di used through the air.

↖ Instead of a box spring, consider an adjustable base. Should a partner be kept up at night by snoring, they can raise the head of the bed to stop it.

10 TIPS

for Better Sleep

1. Keep a consistent sleep schedule.

2. Avoid screens at least 30 minutes before bed.

3. Avoid caﬀeine at least six hours before bed.

4. Keep your room cool, dark, and quiet.

5. Try blue-light glasses.

6. Relax before bed by stretching, taking a bath, or reading.

7. Avoid heavy meals or fatty foods before bed.

8. Limit daytime naps to an hour.

9. Keep your phone away from your bed.

10. Make the bedroom a space for rest.

Joan H. Raley, REALTOR®

↑ The position you prefer to sleep in is a decision-making factor. Stomach sleepers fare best on a ﬁrm mattress. Back sleepers need a mattress that ﬁlls in the hollow of the lower back. For side sleepers, alignment is important as no one part of your body should be sinking in further than another.

When assessing the right mattress for you, you’ll be asked questions such as the age of your mattress, what issues you believe contribute to your poor sleep, how you feel when you go to bed, how you feel when you wake up, what position you sleep in, and if you sleep hot, among others.

Munroe states that it takes at least 15 minutes for the mattress to adjust and conform to you. He will leave customers during that time but watch for relaxed postures and behavior such as stillness, steadied breathing, and feet splaying to the sides.

“Your body always tells you what’s working,” says Munroe. “We don’t take making a mattress decision lightly, as it’s a purchase that impacts your quality of life.”

The position you prefer to sleep in is a decisionmaking factor. Stomach sleepers fare best on a rm mattress. Back sleepers need a mattress that lls in the hollow of the lower back. For side sleepers, alignment is important as no one part of your body should be sinking in further than another.

Munroe and Kahn see many couples who sleep di erently. Fortunately, technology has come a long way. Instead of a box spring, for example, consider an adjustable base. Should a partner be kept up at night by snoring, they can raise the head of the bed to stop it.

Cooling technology present in mattresses can cool down the overheated sleeper while remaining comfortable to their partner. If you nd you’re often woken by the movements of your partner, it’s worth checking out a mattress system that lessens motion transfer.

There are even mattresses and bases with apps that track your sleep and can play music or white noise.

The quickest way to stop counting sheep and start gaining sleep is to invest in the surface you sleep on. TM

↙ White-tailed deer, a native herbivore, frequently stray into suburbia during the depths of North Florida’s winter.

Winter Greenery

WINTER Wonderland

Tips and tricks for maintaining a luscious winter landscape

From a home landscape perspective, the winter months should be free from pests. But while insect activity is at an absolute minimum, foliage is still at risk.

White-tailed deer, a native herbivore, frequently stray into suburbia during the depths of North Florida’s winter. The range of ornamental landscape plants at many homes is a seasonal salad bar for these uninvited guests.

During this period, the deer are very actively seeking a mate and a meal. As such, deer sightings increase.

It is also the time of year when many native foliage sources are in short supply. Less favored but available, landscape shrubs become a meal prospect.

It’s common to see a herd of does, some with yearling fawns, in fields, pastures, highway shoulders, and residential lawns. But a buck’s behavior patterns are quite different. During this period, mature males lead solitary lives. They can occasionally be seen in pairs, but they are usually in competitive pursuit of one or more does.

The skittish males may resort to consuming some residential shrubbery, but meals are not the focus of their interests during this phase. In many cases, they will follow does into yards and nibble after the others have departed.

The often-asked question: “Are there any deer-proof landscape plants?” The answer is no. The deer will eat almost anything, when necessary.

The muted shades of winter’s deciduous plants can be brightened with evergreens, which are easy to add to yards this time of year. One genus of plants displaying bright tones are native hollies. These have simple, alternate glossy leaves, usually with sharp spines on the leaf’s edge, and their inconspicuous flower is greenish-white with four petals, a great food source for native pollinators during the warmer months of the year.

Generally slow growers, hollies can be either trees or shrubs. There are several native species well-adapted to the local environment and that will handle pruning, but remember to leave enough space for them to grow properly.

Dahoon hollies have smooth, shiny, dark green leaves that are 2 to 3 inches long, with just a few serrations near the tip. This holly tree is capable of reaching a height of 20 to 30 feet with an 8- to 12-foot-wide limb spread.

Dahoons have male and female flowers on separate plants, and male and female trees need to be near each other to ensure the production of brilliant red berries in fall and winter. The berries serve as an excellent food source for wildlife but aren’t heavy producers.

The Palatka holly is thought to be a hybrid between two other Ilex species. The broad, rounded leaves have one spine at the tip and few, if any, along the blade edge.

A female Palatka holly is usually heavily laden with bright red berries in fall and winter, especially toward the top of the tree. The tree is capable of growing to about 45 feet tall and has a moderately tight, pyramidal shape.

Yaupon, sometimes called a Yaupon holly, is a small evergreen tree or large shrub capable of reaching 25 feet in height. It has small, graygreen, leathery leaves densely arranged along smooth, stiff branches.

Wax myrtles are another evergreen that can be planted to brighten a winter landscape. ey do well in a moist environment, both in sun and heavy shade. It is an excellent choice for use in poorly drained soils, but it also grows well in drier soils. Trees may reach 25 feet in height. Wax myrtle leaves are narrow at the base and broader toward the upper end of the leaves. About midway up the leaf toward the tip, coarse teeth appear on the leaf edges. Male and female ﬂowers are produced on separate plants. e female ﬂowers grow in close bunches, producing light green round fruits about an eighth of an inch in diameter. e fruits are coated with a thick, bluish wax and are very attractive to birds and wildlife during the winter.

Female wax myrtle fruits are very attractive to birds and wildlife.

It will grow in soil with a pH in the mildly alkaline range and is very tolerant of drought and salty air. Female plants are very heavy berry producers and can form dense thickets if unmanaged.

Hollies are ready to serve the hungry wild residents or travelers migrating through the area. But keep in mind, if a flock of birds arrives famished from flying, the berries can disappear almost overnight.

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

↗

LES HARRISON

GREEN SCENE

Historic Governor Bloxham House

A rare opportunity

Step back in time with the stunning Governor Bloxham House, originally built in 1844 and home to two previous governors. This historic property boasts heart pine floors, soaring high ceilings, and multiple fireplaces, showcasing its timeless charm. The main floor features welcoming living areas, a spacious kitchen, and a half bath. The second floor offers two large bedrooms and a full bath, and the third floor opens to an expansive suite with a full bath. The ground level includes a recreation room, an additional sleeping area, and an office space with its own bathroom. Previously used for parking, the rear yard can easily be redesigned for additional outdoor living space. This home offers a truly turnkey opportunity to own a piece of history.

LISTED PRICE: $949,000

ADDRESS: 410 N. Calhoun St. SQUARE FOOTAGE: 4,977

BEDROOMS: 4

BATHROOMS: 3.5

YEAR BUILT: 1844

FEATURES: This unique property has outstanding features including original heart pine floors, multiple fireplaces, high ceilings on all floors, an expansive porch, and flexible recreational or parking space.

APPEAL: Whether you envision this as your personal residence, a luxurious Airbnb, or a historic guest house, the Governor Bloxham House oﬀers unmatched elegance and versatility. Located in a desirable area, this property is steeped in history, was fully restored in 1979-1981, and is ready for its next chapter.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Nancy Stedman, Realtor, (850) 545-7074 Coldwell Banker Hartung

DEAL ESTATE

VISITING NOTEWORTHY PLACES NEAR AND FAR JAN/FEB 2025

GETAWAY

SWIMMING WITH SHARKS

Dive, observe, and immerse yourself in the elusive world of the ocean’s most captivating residents ↓

by PAUL RUBIO AND ALEXANDRA OWENS

↑

A school of scalloped hammerheads passes by at Darwin and Wolf islands in the Galápagos.

While many people are content to limit their interaction with sharks to HD screens and aquariums, a niche market has grown for extreme marine safaris where humans no longer call the shots. Submerged beneath the waves, all anthropogenic borders disappear as you quickly learn that this is a shark’s world, and we’re just swimming in it. Here, we share four experiential encounters with these misunderstood rulers of the ocean.

SCALLOPED HAMMERHEADS

The scalloped hammerhead shark’s distinctive antenna-like head (or cephalofoil) and elusive nature are hot topics among shark biologists. While much about this shy and enigmatic species remains a mystery, we do know that they travel in schools by day, engaging in complex social interactions, and separate by night to hunt stingrays, squid, sh, and other fruits of the sea.

A prime spot to swim with scalloped hammerheads is the aptly named Hammerhead Triangle, an imaginary geometric destination formed by Costa Rica’s Cocos Island, Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands, and Colombia’s Malpelo Island. These dive sites are populated by migratory schools of scalloped hammerheads that range from 100 to 300 individuals.

In the Galápagos (which are home to the highest concentration of sharks in the world), divers are practically guaranteed sightings of the resident

hammers around the magical islands of Darwin and Wolf. Here, the sharks gather in large schools, slowly drifting past divers at a wary distance. To sneak a closer look, you can wait at a cleaning station, where the sharks stop by—mouths gaping—for tiny sh to freshen up their pearly whites.

Divers can expect to spot other species here, too, depending on the season, including whale, tiger, silky, Galápagos, and various reef sharks. Visiting this remote destination, which is nearly a full day by boat away from the rest of the Galápagos, requires booking a liveaboard. One great choice is Galápagos Sky (galapagossky.com), a 16-passenger luxury yacht that works closely with the World Wildlife Fund and other partners to protect these critically endangered sharks from illegal shing and nning by industrial-scale boats, ensuring that the Galápagos Marine Reserve will remain a treasured sanctuary for years to come.

↑ Clockwise from above: A glimpse above the sea at Darwin and Wolf islands in the Galápagos; adventures on the Galápagos Sky include shark diving and taking in stunning landscapes; the MV Rodney Fox arrives at the Neptune Islands; a great white investigates the surface cage; great whites seen from the seabed.

GREAT WHITE SHARKS

There’s no doubt that the 1975 thriller Jaws solidi ed our fear of great whites— and sharks in general. While these pelagic hunters rule the deep blue as the world’s largest predatory shark, only 351 human attacks have been documented globally since 1580. (To put that in perspective, hippos are estimated to cause nearly 3,000 deaths per year in Africa.)

Given the international protected status of great whites and country-speci c laws, the required permits to cage dive with these creatures are few and far between. Previous great white hot spot Guadalupe, Mexico, is now o limits due to conservation concerns, while the South African population has largely dispersed due to predation by orcas.

That being said, there remains a Holy Grail for immersing in the world of the white shark year-round: South Australia’s Neptune Islands. Here, Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions (rodneyfox.com.au), a leader in white shark research, o ers the only liveaboard boat with access to this sharklled paradise. The out tter is famed for its founder, who invented the shark diving cage after surviving a harrowing great white attack.

White sharks are shy animals that must be enticed to the surface with chum and tuna parts thrashed around on a line to imitate prey. But don’t be surprised if the shark bumps and bites at the cage bars— it’s simply trying to assess the situation. If you’re lucky, a great white will come close enough that you can notice its eyes. They aren’t black, but rather a mesmerizing deep blue.

Looking for more of a thrill? Intrepid scuba-certi ed divers can choose to descend nearly 70 feet in the world’s only oceanoor shark cage to come face-to-face with great whites on their own turf. As you see them peacefully gliding over the seabed, any fear you had will transform into a newfound respect for these powerful yet vulnerable animals.

destinations

WHALE SHARKS

The name can be confusing, but Earth’s largest living sh species is in fact a lter-feeding shark and not a whale at all. Reaching up to 40 feet in length and nearly 40,000 pounds, whale sharks follow migratory patterns and can be found in tropical seas across the globe. Given the whale shark’s gentle nature, slow pace, and awe-inspiring presence, swimming with these endangered giants has grown into a trendy bucket-list activity.

Small out tters pop up seasonally across much of the sharks’ preferred stomping grounds, namely o the northern tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Here, you can discover the largest known congregation of whale sharks feasting on plankton blooms around Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres from mid-May to mid-September. During this season, tour company V.I.P. Holbox Experience (vipholbox.com) leads daily snorkeling trips into prime whale shark real estate.

Your rst moments within breathing distance of the shark’s 5-foot-wide mouth may evoke mental imagery of Pinocchio being swallowed alive. But this is far from the case. The sharks aren’t interested in you, and they don’t like it if you get too close. Respect nature and keep a minimum distance of several feet to avoid spooking the shark and facing the consequences of accidentally being struck by its incredibly thick tail.

TIGER SHARKS

Named for its distinctive dark stripes, the tiger shark is the planet’s second largest predatory shark species, reaching up to 18 feet in length and 2,000 pounds.

Fuvahmulah, a pristine island in the Maldives, has emerged as a year-round tiger shark diving destination for the eco-conscious (eschewing the more controversial and dangerous practices at Tiger Beach o Grand Bahama Island, where the tiger sharks are often fed by hand). Here, shermen have unintentionally been attracting tiger sharks for generations by cleaning their daily catch near the shoreline. Only recently did local divers become aware of this unique eco-tourism opportunity and start to stage dives by hiding tuna heads under rocks for the sharks to sni out while tourists watch from behind a safety wall.

While it’s rare for a shark to approach a diver, professional dive instructors are watching at all times to gently redirect tigers that don’t know the meaning of personal space. If you happen to notice that

a few of the sharks are exceptionally large, you aren’t wrong; many of the female tiger sharks at Fuvahmulah are pregnant and possibly rely on the easy food scraps from the island to nourish their growing young. Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah (pelagicdiversfuvahmulah.com), a Maldivian-owned dive center with local guides, has become a leader in this once-in-a-lifetime experience, o ering small guide-to-guest ratios and helping travelers navigate life on an island that’s new to tourism. Those at the center are also investing in tiger shark conservation, hiring their own on-sta marine biologist and hosting scientists to learn more about these sharks, more than 200 of which have been identi ed and named. TM

↑ Clockwise from above: The coastline of Holbox; swimming with a tiger shark in Fuvahmulah; snorkeling alongside a whale shark in Holbox.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

Bijoux Restaurant + Spirits

Enjoy an incredible lunch, sip elegant wines and indulge in delectable desserts, all of the must-have accessories of the season from The Jewel, door prizes, raffle items, plus more.

$175/person

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Intimate dinners in stunning homes and venues with a private chef & world class wines. Limited tickets available $1,000/couple; $500/person

SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2025

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Join us for world-class vintners, delectable bites, a seated lunch, expert spirit purveyors, amazing auction items and live music.

$225/person

SCAN HERE TO BUY TICKETS

Box Office: SinfoniaGulfCoast.org

850.460.8800

CRESCENDO! 2025 IS PRESENTED BY:

LEADERSHIP TALLAHASSEE DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Leadership Tallahassee, a program of the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, announces the Twenty-Ninth Annual Distinguished Leadership Awards, taking place at Doak Campbell Stadium. Recipients of the Leadership Pacesetter, Leader of the Year, and Servant Leadership awards will be announced, as will the winner of the Lifetime Leadership Award. All proceeds from the event benefit the Youth Leadership Tallahassee program.

For more information and to purchase tickets or sponsor a table, visit LeadershipTallahassee.com or contact the Leadership Tallahassee program at (850) 224-8116 or bboone@talchamber.com.

JAN. 19

THE ARTIST SERIES

→ The Artist Series of Tallahassee celebrates 30 years with the fifth and sixth concerts of its series.

The Vega Quartet will perform January 19 at 4 p.m. at Florida State University’s Opperman Hall. The season will close March 9 with Duo Beaux Arts featuring Tao Lin and Catherine Lan, a husbandand-wife four-handed piano team from Miami.

Doors open 30 minutes prior to the concert. For tickets and season passports, go to TheArtistSeries.org or call (850) 445-1616.

JAN. 13

Afrique en Cirque

Produced by Guinean artist Yamoussa Bangoura, Afrique en Cirque shares the beauty, youth, and artistry of West African culture. Experience the talent of Cirque Kalabanté acrobats as they execute gravity-defying moves and human pyramids set to the contemporary sounds of live Afro jazz, percussion, and kora. openingnights.fsu.edu/events/cirque-kalabanteafrique-en-cirque

FENCES

JAN. 9-26

August Wilson’s Fences chronicles the life of Troy Maxson, a 53-year-old man grappling with the harsh realities of post-slavery America. Thwarted dreams and simmering frustrations ignite a tumultuous journey, testing the bonds of his relationships and the limits of his endurance. With poignant insight and searing honesty, Fences oﬀers a compelling exploration of one man’s resilience in the face of systemic injustice. theatretallahassee.org/2024-2025season/fences

BRICKUNIVERSE

JAN. 11-12

The ultimate event for Lego fans of all ages, the BrickUniverse Imagine Tour is coming to Tallahassee for the ﬁrst time ever, presenting a major exhibition of works by celebrated

artists from around the country. Attendees will meet professional national artists, explore Lego exhibits, build their very own Lego masterpieces for display during the event, and shop treasure troves of Lego accessories and rare ﬁnds. brickuniverseusa.com

H.M.S. PINAFORE

JAN. 29

Ride a wave of music and laughter as romantic sailors, sisters, cousins, and aunts sing and dance their way across the deck of the fanciful British naval vessel. The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players’ production of H.M.S. Pinafore features an elaborate ship’s deck setting based on drawings by Gilbert himself. This production oﬀers energetic action, lively choreography, and broad comedy.

openingnights.fsu.edu/events/ new-york-gilbert-and-sullivanplayers-hms-pinafore

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

→ Little Shop of Horrors follows meek plant store attendant Seymour, his coworker crush Audrey, her sadistic dentist boyfriend, and the man-eating plant that threatens them and the world as we know it. This horror comedy musical features a score rich in the styles of early 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop, and Motown, and includes several well-known tunes, such as the title song, Skid Row (Downtown) , Somewhere That’s Green , and Suddenly Seymour

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday showings at 7 p.m. Sunday and Wednesday matinees at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org or call (850) 684-0323.

THE SOUTH

Southern , Reader’s Digest, Garden , The Tallahassee , and others. He is Sean podcast. His

ECHOES OF NOW: FSU COMPOSERS

JAN. 30

Faculty and student composers unite for an inspiring performance, showcasing original works and celebrating the creativity and talent within the FSU community. Part of the Housewright Virtuoso Series, the performance is free to attend.

music.fsu.edu/event/ housewright-virtuoso-seriesechoes-of-now-fsu-composers

TALLAHASSEE MARATHON

FEB. 2

The Tallahassee Marathon has grown to a ﬁrst-class

event, showcasing Florida’s Capital City like no other race. The Tallahassee Marathon is an all-volunteer event organized by the Gulf Winds Track Club, a local nonproﬁt dedicated to advancing the sport of running, whether for competition, physical ﬁtness, or pleasure. tallahasseemarathon.com

VITAMIN STRING QUARTET

FEB. 4

Known for their classical crossover covers featured in the Netﬂix smash hit Bridgerton, Vitamin String Quartet (VSQ) is one of the most popular string ensembles in the

world. For their latest tour, VSQ has created fresh arrangements of the cultural phenomenon that is Taylor Swift, alongside familiar hits from Billie Eilish, BTS, Bridgerton, The Weeknd, and Daft Punk. openingnights.fsu.edu/events/ vitamin-string-quartet-the-music-oftaylor-swift-bridgerton-and-beyond

AFRICAN AMERICAN ART SONG

FEB. 6

Grammy-nominated composer Shawn E. Okpebholo will bring his globally acclaimed music to Florida State University for a captivating performance, showcasing his unparalleled talent

TALLAHASSEE HIGHLAND GAMES & SCOTTISH FESTIVAL

FEB. 8-9

The Apalachee Regional Park will host the 2025 Tallahassee Highland Games & Scottish Festival. The event is a celebration of Scottish culture, with traditional competitive events, live music, kids’ activities, and food, beer, and whiskey tastings. Bring the family out for this two-day interactive event. tallyhighlandgames.com

and dedication to musical outreach and education. Part of the Housewright Virtuoso Series, the performance is free to attend. music.fsu.edu/event/ housewright-virtuoso-seriesafrican-american-art-songfeaturing-shawn-okpebholo

VALENTINE’S DAY SISTERHOOD SOIREE

FEB. 14

Get the girls together for a Galentine’s event. The Valentine’s Day Sisterhood Soiree presents a night of food, fun, and games while listening to the smooth sounds of live jazz. The event will include a delicious dinner by Klassic Katering. The mingling and fun will take place at the Tallahassee Nights Live Performing Arts Center. visittallahassee.com/events/ valentines-day-sisterhood-soiree

THE MUSIC OF BILLY JOEL

FEB. 14

Handpicked by Billy Joel to star in the Broadway hit musical Movin’ Out, Michael Cavanaugh evokes a style

Creating a New You

rivaling the Piano Man himself. Cavanaugh appeared in the show for three years and more than 1,200 performances and received numerous accolades. Now, the Broadway star will hit the stage to perform Billy Joel hits alongside the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra.

openingnights.fsu.edu/events/ the-music-of-billy-joel-starringmichael-cavanaugh-with-thetallahassee-symphony-orchestra

MARGO PRICE

FEB. 20

With three successful solo albums under her belt, a Grammy nomination, and a Saturday Night Live performance, singersongwriter Margo Price has cemented herself as a force in American music. Rock and roll, psychedelic country, rhythm and blues, and even bright, shiny pop can all be found on her fourth fulllength album, Strays. Sung in her signature delicate vocals and unhurried delivery, each style comes out sounding singularly her.

openingnights.fsu.edu/events/ margo-price

As we start 2025 we hope LIVE! In Tallahassee will help create some new cheer for you throughout this year. Each and every week we show you inspiring stories, events and people in our region and we love doing it. We hope to spotlight that there are a lot of good people doing a lot of good things all around us. So stay tuned because we will continue doing what we do… highlighting you, your neighbors, your friends and your family. Tune in each week as we say cheers to 2025!

Alfredo A. Paredes Jr., M.D.

Larry Harper, M.D., FACS

Jeffrey M. Rawlings, M.D., FACS *Model

Joel Silver Host, Producer and his daughter

(continued from page 94)

Joy Cooking

to make the cooking process less stressful, the first being to read a recipe through three times before even busting out the ingredients. The second is proper prep.

“In culinary school, we call it ‘mise en place,’” he says. “It means, ‘things in place.’”

Pre-chopping, dicing, and measuring vegetables and spices allow chefs to “cook on autopilot,” which goes a long way in preventing burnt food and big messes.

“A lot of people are reading [and following] that first piece of instruction of the recipe, but they still have seasonings in their cabinets or carrots that aren’t peeled,” McMullen says. “So, the tomato paste and onions are already in the pan and ready for the next step, but [the person cooking] isn’t ready, so now they’re rushing and flustered. Preparation makes everything less chaotic.”

At the end of the day, McMullen says it’s important to have fun in the kitchen and not get too rigid with recipes.

“If a recipe calls for two cloves of garlic but you love garlic, put in as much as you want,” he says. “If it says to chop up a jalapeño but you don’t love jalapeño, then don’t add it in.”

And remember, learning to cook is like learning to swim or ride a bike.

“More than likely, things are not going to go the way you want them to the first time, so don’t just do it once,” McMullen says. “The cool thing about cooking is that you get to apply the things you learned the first time to improve the second time.” TM

The of BrianMcMullen ofBrownsKitchen encouragesnovice

tohavefunandtry,tryagain

GLAM, GLITZ, and GATSBY

CELEBRATING THE 2024 BEST OF TALLAHASSEE WINNERS WITH FOOD, FLAIR, AND A ROARING GOOD TIME

STORY BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY GABRIEL HANWAY

ON A CRISP NOVEMBER EVENING, e Moon in Tallahassee transformed into a dazzling scene straight out of the Roaring ’20s as more than 500 attendees gathered to celebrate the 2024 Best of Tallahassee winners. is annual gala, hosted by Tallahassee Magazine, shined a spotlight on the winning businesses, nonpro ts, and individuals who make Florida’s capital an extraordinary place to live.

From the moment guests arrived on the red carpet, the night was nothing short of spectacular. Welcomed with a Birdie Cocktail a canned vodka cocktail sweetened with monk fruit and natural citrus— attendees mingled under twinkling lights while two towering, featherclad greeters set the tone for an evening of glamour and celebration. Birdie Cocktails, set to debut in Tallahassee in 2025, will surely be a refreshing staple for tailgate parties, boating days, and more.

Lance Stokes and Payton Troy with Birdie Cocktails

A DECADENT CELEBRATION

Culinary delights took center stage at the event. e VIP lounge, courtesy of Hayward House, featured savory bites like Blue Crab Salad Tarts and Chimichurri Steak Satay, while Social Catering, also crowned Best Catering, provided an impressive spread in the main event space, featuring avorful creative dips, an array of meats and cheeses, and a vibrant assortment of hors d’oeuvres. Penta Tequila complemented the dining experience with sample sips of its premium spirits, adding a luxurious touch to the evening.

Live music lled the air as the Southern Jazz Collective opened the event with traditional 1920s jazz, complete with talented horn

(Opposite page, bottom left) Food provided by Social Catering, voted Best Catering; (opposite page, left) Live music from the Top Shelf Band, voted Best Band, and (top right) Southern Jazz Collective; (opposite page, bottom right); Surprise Flash Mob by Drip Drop Fitness, voted Best Specialty Fitness Studio; (below) Soliel 7 Salon, voted Best Salon; and (bottom right) Lauren DiMartino-Combs, DVM, with Ox Bottom Animal Hospital, the evening’s Presenting Sponsor

players that transported guests to a bygone era. Later, the crowd-pleasing Top Shelf Band—also recognized as the Best Band—brought infectious energy to the stage and lled dance oor.

Drip Drop Fitness, the city’s Best Specialty Fitness Studio, surprised attendees with a lively ash mob performance, blending tness with fun in true Tallahassee style. Meanwhile, Smile in Style Events kept spirits high with its whimsical photo booth, allowing guests to capture memories in both print and digital formats.

HONORING THE BEST

e evening highlighted winners across more than 100 categories, from health care to fashion, showcasing the best Tallahassee has to o er. Big Bend Hospice Foundation, named Best Nonpro t Organization, received a heartfelt moment in the spotlight. With a feathered hat perched jauntily on her head, President Dena Strickland expressed her gratitude, saying, “It was a privilege and honor to have been chosen as the Best Nonpro t in our community. is recognition will help us promote our services and continue providing compassionate care to patients and families.”

e evening also served as a platform for giving back, with presenting sponsor Ox Bottom Animal Hospital, led by Lauren DiMartino-Combs, DVM, helping to present Tallahassee Magazine’s $53,290

media donation to Big Bend Hospice Foundation. “I am honored to be here tonight celebrating with all of you,” DiMartino-Combs shared. “Congratulations to everyone for your hard work—it is well deserved. A special thank you to my incredible team for their love and care for the animals in our community. We love you, Tallahassee!”

A SPOTLIGHT ON SPONSORS

e event’s success would not have been possible without its dedicated sponsors, including Florida Blue, Capital City Bank (Best Bank), Metronet (Best Internet Provider), Crafty Crab Seafood, Social Catering and others. John Gandy Events brought the Roaring ’20s theme to life with lavish decorations, oral arrangements, and sparkling gold accents that transformed e Moon into a scene straight from e Great Gatsby Adams Radio Group and e Greg Tish Show created buzz across local airwaves, ensuring the event’s wide reach. Midtown Print, honored as Best Printing/Copying Services, gifted each winner with a decal of the 2024 Best of Tallahassee logo—a thoughtful memento of their achievement.

LIVE! in Tallahassee brought an extra layer of excitement to the night, with TV hosts Joel Silver and

Dena Strickland with her team at Big Bend Hospice Foundation accepting the donation of media coverage as benefit of the Best of Tallahassee event from Tallahassee Magazine staff and Presenting Sponsor Ox Bottom Animal Hospital; (below) Best of Tallahassee guests enjoying the night taking selfies; (opposite page; top left) All dressed by Narcissus, our official clothing sponsor for the event: Sarah Villella, Jenna Gordon, Lori Yeaton, Julie Downs, Lauren DiMartino-Combs, Stephany Degeorge, McKenzie Burleigh, Renee Johnson; (opposite page; bottom left) Marsha Doll with Event Entertainment by Aerial Dragons Productions; and (opposite page; bottom right) Live! in Tallahassee’s Joel Silver interviewing Jennifer Powell, voted Best Photographer

(Above)

Marsha Doll interviewing guests live from the red carpet and capturing the energy of the evening. e interviews aired on LIVE! in Tallahassee on Fox 49, where viewers could enjoy all the highlights, including the event’s recap video produced by their team.

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

Tallahassee Magazine publisher McKenzie Burleigh took to the stage midway through the event, delivering an uplifting speech that celebrated the winners and thanked the event’s sponsors. “We are so grateful for each of these winning businesses,” Burleigh said. “To watch the hard work of so many years culminate tonight is inspiring and heartwarming. is is the 26th year honoring Best of Tallahassee winners, and a handful of businesses in here tonight have won each of those 26 years.”

As the evening drew to a close, the Top Shelf Band kept the energy alive, ensuring everyone departed with smiles, memories, and perhaps a little bit of Gatsby-style glitter on their shoes.

“It was wonderful,” said Strickland of Big Bend Hospice. “ e Tallahassee Magazine team did such a beautiful job at e Moon, making everyone feel so honored and special. It felt very celebratory.”

With swag bags in hand and hearts full of community pride, guests left knowing they had participated in an event that truly celebrates the resilience, creativity, and camaraderie that de ne Florida’s Capital City.

For a complete list of this year’s winners, visit TallahasseeMagazine.com.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Wheels, Wine & Whiskey

OCT. 3 Goodwood Museum & Gardens celebrated classic luxury during a night on the museum lawn with Wheels, Wine & Whiskey. Attendees sipped wine and whiskey, enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres, and meandered through a collection of classic and sporty cars while listening to live jazz from Avis Berry & Friends. The museum was open for self-guided tours, with costumed docents and volunteers providing a portal to Tallahassee’s past decades. This fundraising beneﬁt for the museum was supported by sponsors Capital Eurocars and David Fonvielle.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GOODWOOD MUSEUM & GARDENS

1 Ondrea Maldonado and Carlos Morales

2 Goodwood docents: Katherine Hagel, Kerry Morgan, and Carolyn Schreimer

3 Capital Eurocars team (L-R): Caroline and Joe Gruen, Jamie Schutt, Jason and Susan Meixel, and Teresa and Crawford Atkins

4 Roger and Patty Crawford with “Audrey” their 1974 E Type Jaguar Series III

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dining guide

AMERICAN

BACKWOODS CROSSING ★

Sit down at this 2024 Best of winner for fresh gourmet food. This farm-to-table, destination concept restaurant features locally caught, curated, 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 for 2024. 209 E. Park Ave. (850) 354-9739. $$ D

BIRD’S APHRODISIAC OYSTER SHACK

Tallahassee’s classiest oyster shack, serving burgers, veggie burgers, chicken, and grouper sandwiches plus hot dogs, with sides. Full bar. Entertainment includes live music, comedy, and karaoke. Close to downtown and the FSU campus. 325 N. Bronough St. (850) 222-1075. $$ L 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 entrées alike grace this award-winning menu. Also ask about the incredibly valued family packs. Multiple locations. (850) 222-4099. $ L D

THE EDISON

This relaxed, fine dining establishment is equipped with a beer garden, wine cellar, casual café, 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 ambience, and award-winning cuisine and is the Best Desserts winner for 2017-24. 1950 Thomasville Rd. (850) 224-9974. $$ L D

HOBBIT ★

Serving award-winning wings, handcrafted burgers, and specialty sandwiches, plus cold beer and cocktails.

Voted 2024 Best of winner for wings. Multiple locations. (850) 402-2900 $ L D

HOPKINS’ EATERY ★

A Best of 2024 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

ISLAND WING COMPANY

Get baked! Island Wing Company won’t serve greasy, fried wings; instead they bake them fresh. 1370 Market St. (850) 692-3116. $ 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

MIDTOWN CABOOSE ★

Outrageous burgers in a laid-back atmosphere—Wells Bros. lives on at this burger joint, voted Tallahassee’s Best for 2024. 1406 N. Meridian Road. (850) 521-1933. $$ L D

MIMI’S TABLE BISTRO & WINE BAR

American Southern cuisines inspired by French and Italian Old World cooking with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever available. 1311 Miccosukee Rd. (850) 999-8406. $$$ D

OLOGY BREWING CO ★

Craft brewery born in a spirit of innovation. Best of Tallahassee winner for 2024 in Brewery/Craft Beer category. From IPAs to stouts and sours to barrel-aged brews, an ever-evolving tap list invites a journey of taste and exploration. Also offers shareable plates. 2910 Kerry Forest Pkwy. (Northside location). (850) 296-2809. $$

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

SAVOUR ★

Downtown fine dining with a vision for seasonally inspired, regionally sourced and creatively prepared cuisine, such as dry-brined bone-in pork chops, Gulf Coast bouillabaisse, or pecan-crusted grouper. 115 E. Park Ave. (850) 765-6966. $$$ 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 rib eye and Schermer pecan-crusted chicken are among the regional offerings. 1215 Thomasville Rd. (850) 329-2261. $$$ L D

THE HUNTSMAN

★

The Huntsman creates exceptional dining experiences focused on ethically sourced wild game, as well as field and stream to table. Also offering vegan and vegetarian fare. Five-course guided culinary expeditions require group participation. Happy hour and late-night offerings. 320 E. Tennessee St. (850) 765-1887.

$$$ D

THE MONROE

Modern American cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere. This restaurant is the mainstay to the entire South Monroe restaurant and retail development. SoMo Walls on the Southside. 1327 S. Monroe St. $$$ D

UPTOWN CAFÉ

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

$ B L

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

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 2024, 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 2024, 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

4 RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE ★

Offering the best slow-smoked barbecue, the Best Barbecue winner for 2024 specializes in slow-smoked barbecue, homestyle sides, and fresh desserts made daily in their bakery. 1817 Thomasville Rd (844) 474-8377. $ 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 2024 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 café serving high-quality beverages. Flavored coffees include pumpkin spice and Southern pecan. Best Coffee Shop winner as voted by the readers of Tallahassee Magazine in 2024. Multiple locations including Bannerman Crossings.(850) 727-4769.

JERI’S LOVE ON A PLATE

Filling bellies and hearts with love. Jeri’s Love on a Plate offers homestyle dishes

created with farm-to-table, top-quality ingredients. Brie from France, baguettes from New York, and heaping portions of gouda grits and shrimp, enough to share with a fellow diner. 1370 Market St., Ste. #1. (850) 756-7660.

$$ B L

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

THE EGG CAFÉ & EATERY

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

TASTY PASTRY BAKERY ★

Tallahassee’s original cakery and 2024 Best Bakery winner features fresh breads, bagels, pies, cakes, and catering. Open Monday through Saturday, 6:45 a.m. to 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 2024 brings a menu jam-packed with Louisiana-style dishes, including favorites like jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, 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

Serving as a “one-stop 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.

SOCIAL CATERING & EVENTS ★

This 2024 Best of Tallahassee winner offers catering ranging from high-end dropoffs to five-course fine dining experiences to servicing upward of 2,000 guests in a single meal period. 227 W. Carolina St. (850) 800-7267.

ITALIAN/PIZZA

BELLA BELLA ★

Voted Best Italian in 2024, 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 ★

Touted for its fresh ingredients, this 2024 Best of winner has a vibrant atmosphere and is the perfect spot for local pizza lovers. Multiple locations. (850) 765-4120. $ L D

MOMO’S

After devouring a slice “as big as your head” at Momo’s, 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 fajitas and frozen margaritas? Make your way to the 2024 Best Mexican/Latin American Restaurant, El Jalisco, where they do Mexican cuisine to perfection. Multiple locations. $ 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. Multiple locations. (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. 301 S. Bronough St., in Kleman Plaza. (850) 222-3976. $$ 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

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 entrées—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 2024 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. 6802 Thomasville Rd. (850) 900-5075

$$ L D

TED’S MONTANA GRILL

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. 3870 Coastal Hwy., Crawfordville. (850) 926-9191. $$ L D

WHARF

CASUAL SEAFOOD ★

Voted Best Seafood Restaurant in 2024, the Wharf will fill your need for the coast with fresh seafood, salads, seafood tacos, and po’boys. Also available for catering. Multiple locations. (850) 765-1077. $$ L D

SOUTH

AMERICAN

CAFÉ DE MARTIN & EL BAR ★

The home of Peruvian cuisine in Tallahassee. Chef Martin, originally from Lima, Peru, is renowned in Leon County’s Hispanic community for his authentic dishes. 2743 Capital Circle NE. (850) 900-5969. $$ L D

LOOKING BACK

C.S.S. TALLAHASSEE

Super raider of the Confederacy

by WILLIAM L. NEEDHAM

White foam broke along the ship’s bow as the calm waters of the Cape Fear River and Wilmington Harbor gave way to the deep swells of the Atlantic Ocean. The ship was new and fast and was embarking on a daring raid against enemy shipping.

The newly christened C.S.S. Tallahassee was going to war.

It was August 6, 1864 when the Tallahassee, commanded by Capt. John Taylor Wood, CSN, left the harbor of Wilmington, North Carolina, eluded several Union blockade ships, and began what naval historians have described as “one of the most destructive commerce raiding cruises of the war.” In just about three weeks, Wood and his crew ranged up the East Coast of the United States as far as Halifax, Nova Scotia, capturing or destroying more than 30 ships and causing considerable alarm among Union cities along the coast.

The mission of the Tallahassee was to ease the pressure of the Union blockade o Wilmington and to harass Union merchant ships. This mission was part of a larger Confederate strategy to inuence the U.S. presidential election of November 1864 by increasing the sense of threat from Confederate forces.

Wood was a man of no small connections or accomplishments. The grandson of Zachary Taylor, the twelfth president of the United States, and nephew of Confederate President Je erson Davis,

he was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis and an instructor at the academy when the war began. He resigned his commission and initially hoped to sit out the war without taking sides; however, when the Union Navy Department refused to accept his resignation, Wood, in September 1861, turned and o ered his services to the Confederacy.

Moving quickly up the East Coast in the hot August days, Wood soon made his presence known. On August 11, he captured or destroyed seven vessels. The next day, it was six. The following day, another two. And so on for seven days in a row. Thirty-three ships in all.

When the Tallahassee took seven prizes within 80 miles of Sandy Hook, New Jersey, Rear Adm. Hiram Paulding, commandant of the New York Navy Yard, cabled Secretary of the Union Navy Gideon Welles and promptly dispatched three ships to chase the Tallahassee.

Messages poured into the U.S. Navy Department from naval sources, fearful civilians, and the U.S. consul in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They all screamed, “Do something!”

For a brief time, Tallahassee was a name to be feared

Wood rst gained fame as an intrepid raider of shipping in the Chesapeake Bay. He had been a lieutenant aboard the ironclad Merrimac during its famous clashes with the Union ironclad Monitor, served as an aide to Davis, and had a reputation as a man of courage, resourcefulness, and daring.

It is no wonder that Davis described Wood as “an o cer of extraordinary ability and enterprise.”

Wood was now in command of a ship that was also extraordinary. Originally built in England in 1863 as a blockade runner and named the Atlanta, it was a ship of the latest naval design. It was purchased by the Confederate government in 1864, out tted in Wilmington as a warship, and renamed. With three guns, 100 to 120 men, and fast speed, the C.S.S. Tallahassee proved to be a formidable opponent. It would soon take its place along with other famous Confederate raiders, C.S.S. Alabama and C.S.S. Florida.

Other ships were dispatched after the ship, and during an engagement with Union gunboats, the Tallahassee lost a mast. Needing repairs and fuel, Wood took his ship farther north into the comparatively safe haven of the harbor in Halifax, a neutral port. Soon after, two Union warships lingered o the harbor mouth, determined to await the Tallahassee’s departure and to sink or capture the marauder.

The rules of neutrality limited the ship’s stay to 24 hours, but Wood was able to gain some additional hours from Canadian authorities. Then, in the middle of the night of August 19, the Tallahassee slipped out to sea through the narrow Eastern Passage without attracting the attention of the Union ships.

Under full steam, the Tallahassee sped down the coast to her home port, again eluding ve blockading Union ships and entered Wilmington Harbor late on the evening of August 25. Mission accomplished! In the space of only 19 days, the Tallahassee had made more captures than any other Confederate raider in 1864. Indeed, only three other Confederate warships had more successful overall careers.

“Tallahassee” is a name more often associated with springtime owers, trees, and Southern hospitality, but for a brief time in the summer of 1864, “Tallahassee” was a name to be feared and reckoned with. TM

Style and Comfort At Turner’s Fine Furniture

Create a warm and inviting space with the new Trisha Yearwood Collection— featuring select items exclusive to Turner’s Fine Furniture. Blending timeless design with modern touches, this collection oﬀers both style and comfort. Home is where you can unwind, relax, and recharge in complete comfort—let Turner’s help you transform your space into the perfect retreat.

(229) 377-1030 | TurnerFurniture.com Mon–Fri 10am–8pm | Sat 10am–6pm | Sun 1pm–6pm 2151 US Hwy 319 (10 Minutes North of Chiles High School on Thomasville Hwy)

TALLAHASSEE MAGAZINE’S TALLAHASSEE of 2024

Trisha Yearwood Collection

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In center lab testing to diagnose and treat you on the spot

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