Family Magazine Fall 2019 Edition

FAMILY MAGAZINE

Issue 04: Volume 05 FALL 2019

DIY FALL

CRAFTS FALL 2019

A GUIDE TO ENTERTAINING

The Linton Family FAMILY WELLNESS ALL ABOUT PEDIATRICS & FAMILY HEALTH

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F RO M T H E P U B L I S H E R

TRIBUTE AND DEDICATION TO

Ruth Ellen Williams June 7, 1963 to August 28, 2019

Ruth Williams was as kind a person as I have ever met. Our friendship began the day she entered my office, sharing her heart and discussing Family Magazine. She wanted to write about all manner of people, celebrating their lives and recognizing their good deeds. Ruth’s passion fell squarely in the heart of what we strive for at Family Magazine.

We partnered up, Ruth and I. Triumph Editor was her title, suiting Ruth well as she encouraged so many to be successful in life. She was a beautiful, caring person, whose life was dedicated to helping others.

Over the years, Ruth unearthed story after story of North Central Floridians, doing and living extraordinarily. At 56, she died too young. But then many other movers and shakers have died young. And like them, Ruth Ellen Williams’ legacy will live on.

We are inspired by this woman who cared so deeply for her community. Ruth was a Columbia High School teacher for 24 years and served her country in the United States Air Force. She held a bachelor’s degree in English and had completed two master’s degrees. As a member of Northside Church of Christ, Ruth was faithful to and loved her church.

All of us respected Ruth greatly, and her cheery voice will be sorely missed. Our hearts are heavy for losing someone so special. But as we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life, saying thank you for the honor of having shared it with us.

This issue is dedicated to the life and spirit of the lovely Ruth Ellen Williams.

Mantha

PUBLISHER Mantha Young EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeweliana Register Curtis DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE DESIGN Sarah Nichols DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Shellie Young MARKETING TEAM Cindy Ricketson CONTRIBU TORS Joy H. Coleman June D urbin Esta Eberhardt Holly Frazier Tammy Johns Susan K. Lamb Karen Newsome Emily Pazel Delaine Spradley Shelly Williams Jordan Yardbird Hayli Zuccola

Mantha Young Publisher Member of the Florida Magazine Association

“Ms. Ruth Williams blessed our school district for over 20 years. She impacted students and teachers on a daily basis. She has left behind a legacy of being one who wanted to help everyone be successful.”

—Trey Hosford Columbia High School Principal Columbia High School students and faculty honor Ms. Ruth Williams with a heartfelt banner, signed with messages of love and memories.

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North Central Florida Advertiser, Inc 358 NW Main Blvd, Lake City, FL 32055 (386) 752-8280 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photography, or illustration only with written consent of the publisher. Family Magazine, its officers, staff members or contributors do not warrant the accuracy of or assume a responsibility for any of the material contained herein. All submissions, text, and photography received by Family Magazine has been considered authorized for publication.

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Festive Fall DIY Crafts......................6 Build My Future.....................10 Local Teen Chases The Olympics...............16 The Art of Dressage...............18 The Linton Family.........22 Seeker Coffee Co. .................26 Arise Coffee..................................30 The Talented Cookie................34 Fuel Your Career with FGC.....................40 Matthew Ezell...............44 Rugby: A Brotherhood On & Off The Field....50 Holly Frazier Photography

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Family Wellness

Healthy kids are happy kids!

Learn all about pediatric and family health in this special section.

Explore the local coffee craze with Seeker Coffee, Arise Coffee, and the Talented Cookie.

26

Experience a taste of New Orleans with Christine Brewer’s familystyle recipes.

77

The Joy of Motherhood............56 Milestones 0-12 Months.................58 5 Things All New Parents Should Know.....60 Shands Birth Center....................62 Moms’ Fitness..................................66 Elks Lodge Helping Children....................68 Wolfson’s Specialty Center.............70 3 Easy, Healthy Snacks............................72 Jay Vass, International Pilot................83 Epiphany Catholic School Favorite Teacher....88 Flips and Tumbles.......................90 Entertaining On a Budget...........................94

On the Cover: The Linton family (Eric, Stephanie, Parker, Amelia and Reid Linton), gives a peek into their lives, sharing stories of mission trips overseas, ministry endeavors at home, and dayto- day life in Live Oak. Read he Lintons’ story starting on page 22.

June Rose Photography

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Fall 2019 | 5

festive fall

DIY PROJECTS

By Jeweliana Register Curtis Delaine Spradley Photography

Break out the sweaters and gather the art supplies— it’s time to get crafty! With fall in full swing, we can’t help but look for ways to incorporate fall-inspired items into our decor, and these six best friends share a few of their favorite fall projects with us. Check out these three festive fall DIYs and find some inspiration for your next fabulous project.

CHS sophomores and best friends Bailey Dicks, Danielle Thomson, Taylor Tillman, Jordan Anne Tessier, Hunter Floyd, and Katie Johnson shared lots of laughs during this crafting session!

Family Magazine thanks Teresa Brannon for the use of her real estate office as the setting of this photoshoot, as well as Melodie Tessier for bringing the DIY fun!

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Toilet Paper Pumpkins This one may seem a bit out of the ordinary—but trust us, they are absolutely adorable! This DIY is not only affordable, but it is completely customizable and so much fun to create. Bonus—there is almost no mess involved, so it is mom approved!

Instructions: Begin by unrolling your toilet paper roll (about 8-10 times) and then gently wrapping back around the toilet paper, loosely twisting it as you go. This will give the pumpkin that fluffy, full look.

Next, place your toilet paper at the center of your fabric piece, and begin to tuck the corners of the fabric into the toilet paper hole in the center.

Continue to do so with all edges, securing, tucking, and fluffing the

fabric around the roll as you go. Add a stick in the center of the roll and complete with ribbon or raffia. If desired, finish off the pumpkin with a fall flower and enjoy your adorable pumpkin DIY!

MATERIALS • Toilet paper rolls

(mega rolls work best)

• 18-inch fabric square of your choice • Assortment of sticks (find these in your backyard!)

• Ribbon or raffia • Fall flower (optional)

Fall 2019 | 7

Outstanding Owl Cupcakes Hooray—it’s owl-ficially fall. Get into the fall spirit by creating these fun owl cupcakes that taste as good as they look. These cupcakes are easy to assemble and so much fun to make. Whip these up for your next gathering or treat your family to a sweet treat on a cool afternoon. Either way, these are sure to be a hoot.

Rustic Block Pumpkins These rustic block pumpkins make for the perfect fall décor for your front porch. Not only can they be recreated in a color palette of your choice, but they can also be designed with any pattern so desired.

Consider personalizing these cute pumpkins with your family’s name or your favorite fall quote for a little extra spice.

stem of the pumpkin. Finish off with raffia or ribbon and add any additional elements as desired. Once they are dry, your pumpkins are ready to display.

Instructions: Start with painting a base coat in the color of your choice on the wood block, ensuring you fully coat the sides and back of the block as well. If desired, apply another coat. After the base coat is dry, use a secondary color to create a pattern or letter a quote onto the wood.

At the top of the wood block, use a drill to create a small hole and place the stick inside. This will act as the

(rectangular and square work best)

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MATERIALS •

oo blocks in aryin si es

• Assortment of paint brushes • Assortment of sticks (find these in your backyard!)

• Ribbon or raffia • rill • aint colors of your choice

Instructions First, bake and cool your favorite cupcake recipe, then apply a generous helping of chocolate frosting to each cupcake. Next, twist the Oreo cookies apart, revealing one cookie covered with white icing. You will want to gently twist, never tug, to avoid the fragile cookies breaking, though you only need one side of the Oreo sandwich to remain intact for this.

Arrange two of the icingcoated Oreo cookies side by side on the cupcake to create the base of the owl’s eyes. Next, place two Reese’s pieces in coordinating colors on each of the eye bases.

Finish with a Reese’s piece for the nose and enjoy your creation. A cold glass of milk compliments nicely—or maybe a good cup of coffee.

MATERIALS • upcakes of your choice • hocolate frostin • reo cookies • Reese s pieces

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Encouraging the Next Generation OF LEADERS IN TRADE

By Jeweliana Register Curtis

Seeking to inspire the next generation of leaders and creators, Build My Future has planned and executed two major construction day events, one in March and another in October of 2019.

Bryan Zecher, President of the Columbia County Builders’ Association and Founder of Build My Future Columbia County 10 |

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The concept for this movement was discovered by Bryan Zecher during a round table discussion with other Florida Builders Association presidents from each county in the state of Florida. The questions “How is your market?” and “What issues are you facing?” struck up a conversation amongst the group, with almost everyone replying that their market was doing well, but they did not have enough help. A representative from Fort Myers spoke up about their implementation of a “Build My Future” program to reach out to the youth in the community, which sparked Bryan’s interest. A few months later, Bryan had connected with the Build My Future originators in Missouri, volunteered at the first Build My Future event in Fort Myers, and was busy planning the inaugural event in Columbia County.

In March of 2019, Build My Future kicked off their programs with an event at the Florida Gateway Fairgrounds, attracting over 300 attendees. The students were given the opportunity to connect with local business owners in all areas within the trade field to learn about their work. Not only did the students hear from individuals within the career field, but they were also given the chance to try their hand at the jobs. Electricians walked students through wiring, allowing them to see their hard work pay off when they flipped the light switch on and connected the power. Tree surgeons explained the process of trimming trees and grappling trunks. Clay Electric showed students how linemen complete their tasks, and Champion Homes even provided a model home, allowing students to install windows, shingles and siding. Ringpower gave attendees the ability to try their hand at operating and working on heavy equipment. Carpet and tile installers, masonists, AC specialists and many more were eager to show students just how viable a career in trade can be.

“We want the students to experience these trades hands on. It’s not a traditional trade show where you go and walk, maybe grab a brochure and leave. We want students to really experience it hands on as if they were on the job site,” Bryan says. “It’s a complete picture.”

With the success of the first event, the Build My Future team was thrilled to open up the event to high school students in Columbia, Suwannee, Hamilton, Baker, and Union Counties for their October event.

Fall 2019 | 11

Students learn how to work with metal and other materials at the October 2019 event, courtesy of Haeco.

A Build My Future attendee learns how to properly lay a brick foundation.

The event would not be possible without the support of the community and those who are committed to providing students with knowledge of the trades.

All in all, the goal of the organization is simply to provide students the resources to explore a career in the trade industry. Communities always need doctors and lawyers, but we also need electricians and home builders. There is a world of possibilities available for these students, and their future is bright!

“It’s definitely a community-minded event, and the biggest goal is to let the students experience the industry hands on to try to spark an interest in the trades. Our industry needs them. I feel like where I am basically in life and in age, we’ve almost skipped a generation, so my goal is to reach into this coming generation and grab a few that show an interest. We are promoting that it’s a viable way to provide for your family, so if you choose not to attend college, there is a viable career here,” Bryan expresses. “We want them to realize that this is a true way to succeed. If they apply themselves and really learn the trade, they can do well.”

“There’s always a need for trade. Someone always needs their toilet replaced, and someone always needs their air conditioner fixed, especially on the weekends and during the summer,” Bryan says. “The idea is that if we can get students interested in the trades now, when they are freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or even a senior, we’re not missing them in the field. That’s the place where the event is founded from.”

Along with the knowledge and experience from the day, students have the opportunity to walk away with scholarships. During the event held in the spring, Build My Future provided over $2,500 in scholarships to attendees.

River Oak Technical College provided a $1,000 scholarship to a deserving student that was matched by Build My Future, giving the student $2,000 towards their education in the trade of their choice.

Looking to join in on the fun? Build My Future is looking for sponsors and volunteers! For more information about the event, or to keep up with future projects, visit buildcolumbiacounty.com and scroll down until you find the Build My Future logo. To stay up to date on the exciting movement, like the Build My Future page on Facebook.

Build My Future extends a special thank you to this group from Fort White High School who assisted in clean-up from the event.

Attendees were given the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of tree servicing, experiencing the trade hands-on for themselves.

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Chasing the Olympics ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Asherah Collins

Asherah Collins has been running since kindergarten—not away from anything, but toward something: a future as an Olympic Champion.

It’s a scenario many athletes work for, but few achieve—a possibility that for Asherah is not an option. Throughout her childhood, when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, Asherah responded confidently with the answer of a track and field Olympian. When pressed by teachers to consider a more realistic career path, she never altered her dream, and as her high school graduation approaches, all the dedication and training she’s put forth in her athletic career has brought her closer than ever to grasping those Olympic rings.

Asherah joined track and field in middle school, and while most people would find the concept of running to be either a punishment or a grueling way to get in shape, for her, it instilled a sense of joy and a rush of excitement. When she wasn’t sprinting across the field, she enjoyed watching renowned athlete Usain Bolt, better known as the fastest man in the world, shine at the Olympics—a feat she would soon envision for herself.

A glowing smile beams across her face at the sheer mention of one day being in the Olympics—a concept that becomes closer to reality as she enters her senior year of high school. Over 60 medals proudly display themselves across her room, but Asherah never stops trying to improve her past performances and always goes for the gold.

Asherah with her mom, Lawanda Rentz, and dad, Sylvester Collins.

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By Hayli Zuccola

After suffering from a hamstring injury in December of 2018, it was questionable if Asherah would make it to the state championship during her junior year at Columbia High School. She continued to train and persevere—a strategy that proved beneficial as she would go on to win the first-place title at the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) State Track & Field Championships for the Class 3A triple jump— “In my opinion, from working with Asherah over the past five years, she is definitely a one-of-a-kind athlete. She is fast and extremely explosive. When you get that in an athlete, anything is possible. I don’t believe she has even scratched the surface of what she is capable of. As her coach, I have grown, and so has she. I have been slowly progressing her as an athlete, and I believe in the right college system, Olympics is definitely in reach. To be honest, she is not far from it now, but I believe her time is coming. It’s been a pleasure to watch her grow over the past five years.”

—TRAVIS SHEPPARD AAU Track Coach at Athletics Academy

landing a distance of 41 feet, 3.75 inches!

“My goal was to jump 40 feet and to win state, and I reached both of them,” Asherah says. “It really just makes me feel good about myself. It lets me know that all the hard work is actually paying off.”

If that wasn’t impressive enough, Asherah ended a 51-year dry spell

at CHS by becoming the first track and field state champion at the school since 1967—making her the third champion in the school’s history, as well as the first female to receive the accolade! Other accomplishments for Asherah from this past season include beating her personal best at the FHSAA 3A District 3 Meet by running the 100-meter dash in 12.01 seconds; placing first in the triple jump at both the FHSAA 3A District 3 and Regional 1 competitions; and earning first place for the high jump at the East Coast Classic meet with a height of 5 feet, 1.75 inches. On top of that, she was also named the Lake City Reporter’s Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year for the second year in a row.

At the rate she’s going, for Asherah, anything is possible—even achieving her dream of one day standing under those five iconic rings with a medal around her neck.

“That’s my goal— to make it to the Olympics!”

Asherah Collins

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THE ART OF

DRESSAGE with Jamie Siegmeister

By Emily Pazel

S ometimes, when you fall off the horse, it isn’t always easy

to get back on. But for Jamie Siegmeister, there wasn’t an option. She was born into riding horses, and not even a congenital heart defect could stop her.

Originally from Live Oak, she was born into a family that raised horses, and riding came naturally to her.

“I was a kid that was never really great at making friends, and horses have been my one constant companion,” she says. “So, it was fate that I was just born into the right family to be around horses my whole life.”

Jamie currently lives in Lake City with her husband Jeff Siegmeister, State Attorney of the Third Judicial Circuit of Florida.

Jamie developed a passion for show jumping and created a high-amateur show-jumping career for herself. However, due to medical implications, her dream of show jumping came to a sudden halt. That’s when she discovered the world of dressage riding.

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“This is a new thing for me,” she says. “It’s as exciting as anything else if you do it well. I was hoping this would be a good rehab sport for me. But then, if your doctor says, ‘if you jump again, you’ll be committing suicide,’ then you’re like, ‘well, maybe I’ll stick to this instead.’”

Over the last few years, Jamie started training and exploring the world of dressage. Little did she know, there’s a whole world of it right here in Live Oak at Magnolia Farms. Horse trainers and riders come from all over the country to attend these dressage training clinics.

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Dressage riding dates back as far as classical Greek horsemanship, where the military trained their horses to perform movements in order to evade or attack their enemies during battle. A Greek military commander named Xenophon, who was born around 430 BC, was the first known person to train horses using this technique.

I’m a peripheral person in a very wealthy sport.”

The more Jamie trains and learns about the sport, the more she contemplates about competing in horse shows again. The loss of show jumping still lingers with her.

“It took a while for me to say, ‘hey, this is a very challenging sport,’” Jamie says. “I had a lot of stereotypical ideas about what dressage was.”

Jamie with her husband, Jeff Siegmeister.

“Bent was the right person to introduce me to dressage,” she says, referring to Bent Jensen, who holds several dressage training sessions at Magnolia Farms each year.

In the world of dressage, Bent is a renowned, upper-level dressage rider and trainer who has competed as a member of the Danish Olympic Team in Barcelona and has made his mark in the Grand Prix Dressage competition.

Originally from Denmark, Bent is well known for his positive, no-nonsense approach to training both horses and their riders. They come from all over the country to attend the dressage training clinics held at Magnolia Farms, where he trains about eight to ten riders a day over a three-day-long clinic.

“It took a while for me to say, ‘hey, this is a very challenging sport,’” Jamie says.

“I had a lot of stereotypical ideas about what dressage was.”

Typically, the world of dressage is known as a wealthier sport than most, but Jamie says she isn’t your average dressage rider.

“I didn’t come from horses as a wealth and privilege thing, it was more like a lifestyle thing for me,” she says.

“I’m very different from people who might have gotten into them because they were glamorous.

“I lost my identity when I lost that sport,” she says.

As time progresses on, she believes one day she will get back into riding competitively. But for now, she’s just happy she was able to get back on the horse—literally.

“I’m sort of making a comeback with just a toe in the water,” she expresses. “I totally admire all the people that come out here. They say that you learn from other people, and I get inspired by that here every time.”

“What I like most about the riders here is that they are very open for training,” Bent says. “They are always getting better and improving.”

For those who are unsure about what dressage riding is all about, you might have actually seen a glimpse of it while watching the Olympics. During dressage, horses perform intricate maneuvers as the riders sit almost motionless. The goal of dressage training is to develop a horse’s flexibility, responsiveness to aids, and balance.

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Jamie and her yearling, pictured at Magnolia Farms.

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Linton ly

THE

By Jeweliana Register Curtis June Rose Photography

i m Fa

Celebrating everyday life and loving your community well.

Parents, pastors, friends, teachers and dreamers—these are just a few hats Live Oak residents Eric and Stephanie Linton wear each and every day. With a heart for people and a passion for making an impact on the community, the pair are advocates for shopping local, investing in your family, and building lasting connections. The Linton family is comprised of husband and wife Eric and Stephanie, along with their children: Parker, Amelia, Reid, and a sweet little guy who will be making his debut in December!

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For the past two years, Eric has served as the pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, a church he has attended for most of his life. In this role, Eric has joined the Baptist Association in the replant and revitalization of churches, taught Dave Ramsey courses to his congregation, lead mission trips overseas, and developed relationships within the community. His passion for people and Christ’s church collide in every aspect of his work, from international mission trips to missions a bit closer to home.

“When we say revitalize the church, we are taking what is there and helping to make it applicable for younger people. All of these churches were built with the people who were attending at the time in mind, so now we are making ourselves available to bring revitalization, or new life, into these churches. We merge or marry churches, or completely replant them,” Eric shares. “In every generation, it’s just being able to be there for them relationally. We want to make the most of those relationships.”

The Lintons’ renovation project and home for the past eight years.

Over the past 16 years, Eric has made 10 trips overseas to complete mission work, a few of which were to build a schoolhouse from the ground up, and another three were to construct a sturdy bridge for a village in Costa Rica. The missions group currently has their sights set on beginning a new venture in Mexico next year, aiming to be the hands and feet of Jesus to the communities they visit.

“The goal of us going is to preach and teach the gospel, which is one of the main things I focus on,” Eric says. “The construction projects are really just a way for us to serve the communities.”

Aside from their heart for the church, Eric and Stephanie have a huge heart for families. Each week, they lead Classical Conversations, a homeschool group based in Live Oak, and assist in connecting families with common goals. Oh, and did we mention that Eric serves as the head barista for the group? The Lintons love to see the families involved in their school each week, and serving up crafted caffeinated beverages is just the tip of the iceberg on their responsibilities within the group.

Homeschool parents themselves, Stephanie says she felt called to teach her children back in high school, way before she and Eric met or started a family. Stephanie began homeschooling their son Parker when he was just two years old, starting with the basics and now working into more complex studies. From science and mathematics to Latin classes and piano lessons at The Music Center, the Linton children absolutely love learning!

“I really felt called to homeschooling when I was in high school. I wanted to teach my kids everything at a very young age when their brains are very spongy,” Stephanie explains. “Every year we do revisit the subject of going to private school with them, but the kids always say they want to stay home, which works really well for us.”

While Stephanie is the main instructor at home, she jokes that occasionally Eric serves as the “substitute teacher,” which makes for a fun day for the kids. After all, substitutes are always a little more lenient, right?

A teacher in a variety of subjects, Stephanie is also an advocate for healthy living through the use of natural products and essential oils. She loves sharing this passion with others, and regularly hosts oil education classes for the community with her friend Haleigh Howland.

“If we’re not teaching homeschool or bible studies, we’re teaching oily classes!” Stephanie expresses.

The Lintons are also big proponents of supporting and shopping local.

Stephanie, along with her co-host Kathy McGhin, creates video spotlights for small businesses in the North Florida and South Georgia area that highlights their unique stories and dreams. Be sure to follow along with “Window Talk Live with Kathy and Steph” on Facebook!

As 2019 progresses, the Linton’s are embracing two big new adventures: moving into a new home and welcoming a fourth bundle of joy this winter.

The family has spent the past eight years in their current house, renovating it and making it feel like home, so they are thrilled to take on a new project this fall with Eric’s family’s farmhouse.

Even amidst a busy day of homeschooling, piano lessons and church duties, the Linton family reminds themselves of the gift this life is. Their caring nature and passion for loving others well is evident to all they meet, and their celebrations of the little things is admirable. One thing is for sure, life is so much sweeter when you are spending it with your people!

Fall 2019 | 23

Lemonade stands for Legoland The Linton family knows the value of hard work and strives to instill healthy financial values in their little ones. From a young age, Parker and Amelia have been responsible for completing chores around the house, and have been known to save up their profits for special items they want. As Mom and Dad are believers in the well-known Financial Peace University program, the Linton children were gifted with the kid’s version of the beloved Dave Ramsey course by their grandparents. Not only does it assist in teaching them the value of hard work, but it also gives new meaning to every dollar saved. In the Linton family, the crew celebrates their birthdays with elaborate parties every other year, and on the off year, the family takes a trip instead.

“We were going to take them to Disney last year, but about a week before we were going to leave they decided they didn’t really want to go. So I thought, ‘great, because that’s a lot of money!’” Stephanie laughs. “They decided instead—and these are homeschool kids here—that they wanted to buy a year’s pass to the Kids Science Museum. It was a lot of fun for them, but this year they have decided they want to go to Legoland.”

With their newfound desire to go to a theme park during their birthday party year, Eric and Stephanie made a deal with Parker and Amelia. If they could save the funds for their tickets, Mom and Dad would finance the rest. So, the crew set out to find ways to fill a need in the community and earn money for their exciting trip, which just so happens to be a sweet lemonade stand on the weekends.

What do you do when life gives you lemons—and essential oils? Make lavender lemonade, of course! Parker and Amelia’s lemonade stand started out serving refreshing lavender lemonade, made from scratch with lavender essential oil, agave syrup, and freshly squeezed lemons. As the little entrepreneurs began making it a regular occurrence, they decided to partner with local businesses to sell their products and advertise for them on Saturday mornings. Their stands have featured piping hot Arise coffee and assorted Ed N Barbs donuts in the past, but they also love serving their signature lemonade and delicious Pomodoro pizza. Parker and Amelia are well on their way to earning their admission to Legoland, and the memories of the day and lessons about money will stick with them for life!

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Exciting things are brewing in downtown Lake City! Seeker Coffee, a local coffee roastery founded by Adam Crocker, is expanding to better serve its loyal customers and the North Florida community.

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SEEKER COFFEE:

EXPLORING THE WORLD, ONE CUP OF COFFEE AT A TIME

By Jeweliana Register Curtis Holly Frazier Photography

Founded in the spring of 2019, Seeker Coffee was created by Adam Crocker, a First Federal employee by day and coffee connoisseur by night. Surprisingly, Adam always hated coffee. When his friends would ask him to join them for a cup of joe at a chain coffee shop, he would join and try out different concoctions, but never found anything he liked. It was not until a friend expressed his love of roasting his own beans to Adam that he decided to give the beverage another go. While Adam describes his first batch as pretty rough, the world of coffee was split wide open. Not even a year later, Seeker Coffee was born.

Seeker Coffee made its debut at the 2019 Olustee Festival, an event Adam was not even sure he could attend until about a month prior to the event. After hustling to create a name, logo, and packaging for the festival, Adam loaded up his 100 pounds of coffee and product samples, eager to know what the community thought of his newest passion project. Spoiler alert—he sold out of his product before the end of the second day.

community to see that there are things we can take back and do ourselves,” Adam says. “We don’t have to ship in stuff from whatever big, national company. We can make it right here in downtown Lake City, and it can be delicious.”

Though he was never a coffee lover before roasting his own beans, Adam has since become a coffee fiend, scouring the internet to learn all he can about the process of growing, harvesting, and purchasing the highest quality coffee beans. Adam spends a lot of his down time reading books and blogs about coffee, or listening to podcasts chocked full of wisdom from coffee connoisseurs. His passion and knowledge for the subject can be witnessed by everyone he meets; so, if you have a question about your favorite brew, Adam is your guy.

“Going in, I wasn’t sure if I would sell any coffee at all, or end up back home with 95 pounds of coffee,” Adam shares. “The response was amazing and people really connected to it.”

“It’s a whole new world that I never knew existed,” Adam states. “I love learning about all kinds of things; so, with coffee it was just go, go, go.”

With the success of his first public outing, Adam knew that he wanted to turn this weekend roasting gig into something that made an impact. With a heart for the community he has lived in all of his life, Adam began looking for space to roast on a larger scale—and Halpatter Brewing Company seemed like the perfect fit.

The goal behind the brand is simple: to create quality coffee and provide amazing customer service to all. Whether it’s a personalized email after you place your order or a handwritten note slipped into your coffee delivery, Adam is always looking for new ways to show how much Seeker Coffee appreciates you!

“It’s really fitting that we are going to be leasing a space at Halpatter.

I really feel that they have proven this community has an appetite for locally crafted, quality products. It’s opened the eyes of our

So, what’s coming up for Seeker Coffee? You can look forward to a few exciting collaborations with Halpatter Brewing Company on coffee stouts, and the full product line being carried in the brewery.

Fall 2019 | 27

Adam Crocker with wife Sarah and daughter Norah

Nitro cold brew will also be available on tap. Pop in to Phish Tales to enjoy a cup of Seeker Coffee after dinner, or try one of the weekend specials that incorporate their roasts. Adam is also currently working on creating a flavored syrup that will pair beautifully with his coffee varieties, and Seeker Coffee is looking to partner with local establishments to form lasting relationships.

When it comes to the brand, Adam is passionate about serving a variety of delicious blends from all over the world while being as sustainable as possible. The coffee industry historically involves tons of exploitation, but Seeker Coffee wants to bring the customer quality coffee in a sustainable way. From working with farmers to utilizing 98 percent compostable packaging, Seeker Coffee is committed to fair trade and a green lifestyle.

Whether you are looking to buy your beans locally or searching for the perfect cold brew growler, Seeker Coffee is ready to provide you with the kick you need to start your day off right. For more information about Seeker Coffee, or to order your own shipment, visit seekercoffee. com. To stay up to date on exciting fall launches and Lake City’s brand new roastery, like their Facebook page @SeekerCoffeeLC.

ď ź Family Magazine thanks Seeker Coffee for inviting a group of local coffee lovers to sample four of their most popular brews. Adam created a wonderful customer experience, and his tips and tricks for amazing coffee were appreciated by all. While the group all had different favorite blends, the consensus was that Seeker Coffee is a must-try!

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By Jeweliana Register Curtis Shelly Williams Photography

With a heart for people and a passion for sharing the love of Jesus, the story of Arise Coffee Bar is one of redemption, second chances, and hope. Founders Will and Haleigh Howland began the shop after moving back home to Live Oak just a few years ago, but their story to finding each other—and falling in love with coffee—is one that is inspiring and unforgettable.

Nestled in the town of Live Oak, Arise Coffee Bar opened in January 2018 and has since become an integral part of the Suwannee County community. Serving up everything from locally roasted coffee—provided by their other business venture, Across the River Roasters—to sweet frappuccinos and delicious crafted espresso beverages, Arise Coffee Bar has taken the community by storm. It’s no secret the owners and baristas love the community they are in, and the staff finds passion in whipping up handcrafted drinks at their convenience store location.

Will Howland never liked coffee. He grew up in Live Oak working at his father’s hardware store, Howland’s, but battled a drug and alcohol addiction for over fifteen years. He explains that in the midst of his addiction, his father encouraged him to attend a Christian rehabilitation center in South Florida. It was at this center that Will was saved and received life changing help, beating his addictions and deciding to pursue ministry and missions.

We’re really taking a step back now to look at coffee as a passion for us and get back to that original thought of relationship building.

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“All you do all day is just drink coffee and hang out with people; so, I learned to try it out and I ended up loving it,” Will expresses. “It all started there in rehab, and then after that I went to the Middle East for two years of mission work. The thing to do there was go to coffee shops and hang out with people, too. We hung out with Syrian refugees a lot, but they drank mostly tea, not coffee. It’s just a form of relationship building, and I was really attracted to that.”

and employ those who are coming out of addiction programs or rough seasons of life in a way that can empower them moving forward.

From teaching others how to build a bright financial future to bringing people into their home and discipling them, the Howlands strive to live their faith and teach it boldly.

During a trip home from his missions in the Middle East, Will was prompted by a couple who mentored him and took him under their wing that there was this girl he needed to meet. She was aleigh Will & H d Howlan just finishing up her program at a long-term, faith-based women’s home that focuses on recovery from addiction. The pair met and instantly hit it off, and Will knew immediately she would be his wife.

Upon returning to the Middle East for his final year of missions work there, Will began to form a friendship with Haleigh, developing their relationship while she was in the States and he was overseas. About a year after moving back to the U.S., Will and Haleigh married and began their ministry work together in Valdosta… That is, until the couple felt God’s tug to move back to Will’s hometown of Live Oak. It was not long until their family decided to take a leap of faith and open up a coffee shop near their family hardware store.

“We made the move here and originally had no desire to open a coffee shop. I liked coffee; I was content with just making my own at home. I just felt a gap missing here, but I opened up a coffee shop… so I could have coffee,” Will jokes. “We started growing from there, and now we’re a roastery and a coffee shop. We’re really taking a step back now to look at coffee as a passion for us and get back to that original thought of relationship building.”

“Coffee is just an aspect of that.

Our hearts are to bring these people on after they finish their program, to say we’ll give you a job. It’s all on the stages of development, possibly giving them a place to stay and giving the accountability,” Will says. “We don’t want to just hand over a paycheck to someone who’s barely sober. We want to not enable, but help them and push them towards Jesus. Jesus said ‘pay to Caesar what is Caesar's,’ so you’re going to pay your debts. Money was a big thing to Jesus, and they need to bring that back to the front burner, and we want to help them do that.”

Stemming from their time in their respective programs, Will and Haleigh believe in redemption. The couple works with a multitude of Dunklin Memorial Camp regeneration facilities to help fund these programs, such as the South Georgia House of Hope where Haleigh works part time.

“We really felt there was more to the roasting aspect of coffee; so, if we can show people the love of Jesus through it, then that it’s a tool to help people financially after completing a long-term rehab program, they can build a life where money isn’t their downfall. Instead, it’s something that can help them pay back child support, probation, or debt of any kind. The places that we work with, that’s just part of the addiction lifestyle,” Haleigh expresses. “If we can employ those people who have finished programs and create a discipleship program... Right now we are helping fund those places that helped us so much.”

Not only do the Howlands have a heart for their local community and those who are struggling with addiction and recovery, but the pair also place such a big focus on missions and sustainability.

With their heart for redemption, Will and Haleigh began to put the pieces together in their mind, crafting a business model that was all about the people they could serve and help. Their mission is to show others the love of Jesus

Fall 2019 | 31

Their goal is to one day raise enough money to buy a farm in a coffee-growing country and gift it back to the locals, allowing them to own their land and produce their product fairly.

“We want to be able to open up our house because that’s how we met. We were brought in by people who changed our lives, and so we want to be able to do that and have a discipleship home,” Haleigh says. “Coffee incorporates it all. So much of our hearts are for missions. When we got married, we thought we would be a missions family, but it went in a different direction—to be able to have relationships with the farmers who grow this coffee. One day we hope to go and partner with them and actually give back to those communities in donations.”

We’re really taking a step back now to look at coffee as a passion for us and get back to that original thought of relationship building.

Community involvement and shopping local are two components that the Howlands do not take lightly. Supporting local commerce in any way they can, Arise Coffee Bar uses Wainwright milk in their beverages, and the coffee lovers’ new space will sell the entire Wainwright product line—everything from milk to yogurt to cheese. Local honey is incorporated into their drinks, and the team is currently scoping out local bakery items to serve as well.

Small businesses like the Dixie Grill proudly serve Across the River Roasters coffee, Fifth Generation Farms stocks their products, and Cheek N Scott features the full lineup in all three of their locations.

“I believe that our customers really feel loved and appreciated when they come in. The baristas really have a passion and connect with the customers. The community is being impacted by that—it’s back to the relationship building—they are really loving on the community. We want our customers to enjoy our coffee and never have to compromise. We don’t compromise, and our baristas do not compromise either,” Will says. “We’re here to stay and to help support the community.”

So, what’s coming up next for Arise Coffee Bar and Across the River Roasters? Expansion! Across the River Roasters is renting space in downtown Live Oak and opening up their roastery in an effort to build more relationships over a love for great coffee.

The team of baristas will continue to create delicious coffee beverages at their current location, serving up smiles and genuine connections along with their menu.

 For more information about Arise Coffee, visit acrosstheriverroasters.com To stay up to date on exciting new ventures and all the amazing things the team is brewing, like their Facebook pages @Arise386 and @riverroasters386.

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Fall 2019 | 33

Wake up and Smell the Cookies

the Talented C

kie Company

By Hayli Zuccola

I

t all began with a batch of intricate red and pink heart-shaped sugar cookies—that’s when Wendy Newman officially launched the Talented Cookie Company and became the queen of homemade confections and caffeine concoctions.

Even without formal training, her eye for design and love of baking brought out the cookiepreneur within, pushing her to open an Etsy shop in 2011 to showcase her tasty creations to the world. In no time at all, the demand for her detailed treats spread from California to Japan, causing Newman to dedicate

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70 hours a week to baking, frosting and piping colorful images on anywhere from 150 to 200 cookies a day. Soon, these scrumptious little works of art started taking over her household, prompting her to open a physical location in 2013—a move that would close her online store and allow her to expand her sugar-coated repertoire to include brownies, chocolate-dipped goodies, cupcakes, muffins, bars, flavored cookies, and every java junkie’s favorite: coffee.

“Everything that I’ve done is self-taught...like I’ve never done culinary school or anything like that; so, it’s just me

In addition to delicious baked goods, the Talented Cookie also sells hand-poured soy candles from Illinois, mugs from a local potter, and reusable straws to help save the turtles.

One of the summer cupcake flavors, cherry limeade, will have you dreaming of soaking up the sun while sitting by the pool.

Fall 2019 | 35

loving the kitchen and being able to just kind of figure things out,” Wendy says.

Being self-taught, each new venture for Wendy is a process of dedicated research and trial and error—especially when it involves something out of her wheelhouse.

“I’ve always loved the smell of coffee...but to drink a cup of coffee—I never liked it,” she expresses.

While dating her now husband, David, who grew up in Cuba and was a caffeine connoisseur, she became more adventurous with the caffeinated drink, and at the advice of her husband, decided to add it to the menu. Cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos, both layered and traditional—she learned how to make them all, becoming the espresso expert she is today.

Every coffee base has to start from somewhere, and for the Talented Cookie, it’s all about the beans. The shop grinds up four different types: one for espresso, which comes from Panther Coffee in Miami; one for cold brew; a decaf bean; and the original coffee bean—all of which come fresh every week straight from Sweetwater Organic Coffee in Gainesville.

Besides using whole coffee beans for drinks; providing fresh-from-theoven baked goods each morning; and having a gift shop filled with hand-poured candles, local pottery mugs, and bath-bombs, Wendy takes the Talented Cookie’s concept of using pure, made-from-scratch recipes and products to a whole new level by making her own coffee syrups. It’s a slow process, taking roughly an hour and a half per batch, but using all-natural ingredients makes the long wait taste so much sweeter.

gum, and cake batter and travel-inspired mixes like the Nashvilleinfluenced Salty Jack, which combines Jack Daniels, smoked sea salt and vanilla, the Talented Cookie offers almost every syrup imaginable.

The only flavors they don’t make in-house are toffee nut, macadamia nut, and toasted marshmallow.

“My whole concept for the bakery was everything homemade; so, as much as I could do homemade from scratch, we did it,” she says.

With fall approaching, Wendy is preparing to bring the autumn essence full force, whipping up her signature pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pound cake with a cream cheese filling, crunchy candy corn cookies, and cinnamon apple blondies. If seasonal staples don’t tickle your fancy, you could always follow her advice and opt for something rich and chocolatey.

“I’m a chocaholic; like, I love chocolate—just anything chocolate—so, I’ll probably grab our triple chocolate cookie or complete opposite: the oatmeal cranberry. Those are my two favorites,” she says.

Aside from offering everything from indulgent bakery items including specialty options for gluten-sensitive and vegan appetites, fruit smoothies, cold-concentrated teas, coffee, and so much more, tucked into the quiet little town of High Springs, the Talented Cookie provides a unique, welcoming atmosphere that makes it truly one of a kind.

“I think it’s just the difference of us being all homemade, and I try to keep my staff super friendly to everybody so that people feel very welcome when they come in. Just having that kind of atmosphere that people know it’s like Grandma’s kitchen, you know; it’s not like your typical bakery,” Wendy expresses.

From classic flavors like vanilla, caramel, and white chocolate; to seasonal favorites like toasted graham, made with gooey marshmallows and crushed graham crackers, and pumpkin spice, made with fresh pumpkin puree; to more the-box blends like out-ofkey lime, bubble

 Unlike the name suggest, the Talented Cookie doesn’t just offer a variety of cookies, they also make candy-coated, sometimes chocolate-covered marshmallows with an array of toppings.

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Coffee-Infused There’s nothing better than enjoying a great cup of coffee... except maybe having a delicious snack that pairs perfectly with it. Whether you are a coffee fanatic or just dipping your toes into the caffeine train, check out these coffee-infused breakfast recipes that are sure to jump-start your morning with a little kick.

recipes

Crumbly Coffee-Infused

BANANA BREAD (Recipe and photo courtesy of therusticfoodie.com)

Ingredients 1 1/2 sticks softened butter 1 1/2 cups packed dark brown sugar 3 ripe bananas 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup extra strong brewed coffee 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup chopped walnuts Instructions Brew 1 cup of strong coffee, set aside, and let cool to room temperature. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter and dark brown sugar, then add in mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla to the bowl. Mix until combined.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt; stirring until combined.

Alternately add flour mixture and cooled coffee to the banana mixture. Add half the flour and combine. Add half the coffee and combine. Repeat with second half flour and coffee. Follow by folding cinnamon and walnuts into the bread mixture. Pour batter into a greased bread pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Slice and enjoy with a cup of joe!

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Double-Chocolate

PANCAKES with Mocha Syrup (Recipe and photo courtesy of cakewhiz.com)

Ingredients Mocha pancake mix: 1 1/2 cups flour 1 1/3 cups whole milk 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 tablespoons espresso powder 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 large egg 1/2 cup chocolate chips Instructions Pancake mix: In a mixing bowl, add milk, egg, and butter. Mix thoroughly and set aside. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and espresso powder.

Add the dry mixture into the wet mixture and mix until combined. Pour Âź cup of this mixture on a hot griddle, adding chocolate chips on top. Cook pancakes until desired texture is reached. Top with mocha syrup and enjoy!

Mocha syrup: 1/2 cup brewed coffee 1/4 cup cocoa powder 1/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon butter, unsalted Mocha syrup: Add brewed coffee, cocoa powder and sugar in a small saucepan, stirring on medium heat until the mixture begins to thicken (about 10 minutes). Remove the saucepan from heat and add butter and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly. Drizzle over pancakes, top with chocolate chips (if desired), and serve.

Vanilla Cold-Brew-Infused

OVERNIGHT OATS (Recipe and photo courtesy of lemonsandzest.com)

Ingredients 1/2 cup rolled oats, regular or gluten free 2 tablespoons cold brewed coffee 1/2 cup milk of choice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1-2 teaspoons vanilla almond butter 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (or honey) 1 teaspoon chia seeds Dash of sea salt

Instructions Add all ingredients to a bowl or jar that can be sealed shut later. Stir all ingredients well to combine and cover in the refrigerator overnight. Serve hot or cold in the morning. Garnish with cacao nibs or chocolate-covered espresso beans!

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By Hayli Zuccola Holly Frazier Photography

Automotive technology has drastically evolved over the years—moving from a mechanically-based field to a more technically-driven, high-demand profession. Automotive technology continues to advance its status as a skillful, profitable, and indispensable trade that involves training in computer programming, electrical work, and so much more. Recognizing the interest in obtaining a career in auto mechanics, Florida Gateway College (FGC) developed a program that would appeal to students looking to earn a certificate or a fullfledged degree in this sought-after line of work.

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Steven Adler

The effort in bringing an automotive program back to FGC, which originally had a place at the college three decades prior, entered the development stage around two years ago after the institute noticed a growing need for the course within the community.

Starting from scratch, FGC designed a three-tiered catalog for students interested in taking 24 credits to earn a certificate in Automotive Service Technology, 44 credits to become certified as a General Automotive Technician, or 68 credits to receive their

Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Service Management Technology.

“What I’m looking forward to the most is giving students who may not have a goal of going to a traditional four-year university a program where they can learn a highly-marketable skill, which will allow them to be successful and earn a good wage without having to incur the expense of a traditional fouryear education,” says John Jewett, who is the Executive Director of Technology Programs and Public Service Programs at FGC.

John Jewett

Aside from offering three possible directions to take within the course, FGC’s newest educational branch was laid out to begin with the basics— creating an environment for every student, even those without a previous automotive background.

“This program and this curriculum is designed to take somebody with absolutely zero mechanical knowledge of an automobile and in two years make them an ASE-certified automotive technician,” Jewett says.

Fall 2019 | 41

Automotive Service Technology Class of 2020

In addition to having the benefit of learning locally without having to make the long drive to Jacksonville, Gainesville or even farther, FGC provides its students with the unique experience of smaller class sizes, attentive faculty, and an overall desire to see all their students thrive with whatever path they decide to follow.

“We have a tremendous college here.

We have dedicated staff and faculty whose main job and whose passion is to see students succeed,” John Jewett says.

“I do believe that we’re going to make it one of the best automotive technician schools in the state.”

Of course, to have one of the best automotive programs in Florida, FGC needed to find the perfect person to lead the college in that direction. Steven Adler was a natural-born teacher—helping those around him in every facet of his life, whether it was during his time in the military, working as a volunteer firefighter, training scuba divers, or with his extended career in automotive technology.

Though he previously never held an official occupation as a teacher, Adler—who has garnered 38 years of experience as an automotive technician and an ASE Certified Master Technician—has honed in on his knack for teaching to become FGC’s Automotive Technologies Program Coordinator. Taking on multiple roles, he will also serve as the primary teacher and an advisor to incoming students once the program debuts this fall. Using his prior experience to his advantage, Adler created the upcoming curriculum from the ground up—combining both traditional learning techniques through the use of lectures and textbooks with a more hands-on approach with the facility’s very own mechanic shop.

“This is my wildest dream out here. I never thought I’d be where I am right now. It is so exciting to see the program and how it’s being brought together,” Adler expresses.

“The adage ‘you go further together’ —well that’s true. As I stepped on board as part of the faculty out here, people have bent over backward to make sure that this program and myself have what we need to be successful.”

With 15 students already emerged in their first semester of Automotive Technologies at FGC, the college’s latest scholastic expansion is expected to make a major impact on the community, the school itself, and most importantly, with the students who are looking to further their education in a non-traditional, yet immensely beneficial way.

To learn more about Florida Gateway College’s new automotive program and curriculum, visit FGC’s website at fgc.edu

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Fall 2019 | 43

Matthew Ezell Small-town guy graces the big screen!

Not only does he act, his entire family has joined him in this adventure.

By Susan K. Lamb Tammy Johns Photography

If you are a TV connoisseur, you likely have already spotted Matthew Ezell multiple times, but chances are that when you did see him, you did not recognize him.

and very handsome boys: Dakota, Matthew and Kevin.

Heather and the boys have also all recently launched their acting careers.

Matthew, a Lake City resident, is a talented young man who works as an actor in many commercials, TV movies that often include Disney TV, music videos, theatre, and film while also holding a full-time job as a mechanical engineer. In his free time, he also enjoys playing guitar, singing, writing songs, and performing in a band. Matthew, 32, is a husband to his beautiful wife, Heather, and father to three energetic, talented

The lives of the Ezell family are never dull. It’s always been that way, and there’s no reason to expect it to change anytime soon. Matthew is currently finishing an acting job with the live action/CGI remake of Lady & The Tramp, which debuts on Disney Plus, Disney’s new streaming platform, in November 2019.

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cast. The Netflix representatives are really down to earth and extremely nice people, especially the Duffer Brothers.”

Matthew and his family have worked on many commercials, which the kids have totally enjoyed. “The latest commercials we worked on were for the Gel Comfort Seat, GreenDot Powered

by Visa, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 2 for $20 Deal (with Kevin Ezell and Matthew Ezell, Jr.), Just Bare Chicken (Kevin Ezell) and a few local ads. The GreenDot Visa Commercial, that includes my wife, sons and myself, was set to release in late August.”

“We also worked with the National Guard at Camp Blanding in Starke for a training exercise for emergencies and national disasters. We were given prosthetic arms and fake blood, and my kids thought it was awesome.” Matthew laughs. And the college fund continues to grow. How nice is that?

“I had a blast with the Disney cast and crew on and off for almost three months,” Matthew comments. “To me, Disney is what dreams are made of.”

Matthew was also in a Netflix film where he portrayed a customs officer. “ The Legend of Cocaine Island is a hilarious true story,” he laughs.

“My sons and I will be on NBC’s pilot episode of Council of Dads which should premiere this fall,” he relates.

From top to bottom; Brother-N-Law, Father Nash, Left: SCAD Visa Commercial, Right: Disney’s Lady & The Tramp and the Sleepy Hollow series on FOX

“I thoroughly enjoyed every minute while on the set with Disney. I had a blast with the Disney cast and crew on and off for almost three months,” Matthew comments. “To me, Disney is what dreams are made of: the gourmet food, high-tech gear, amazing wardrobe... and their overall professionalism was outstanding.”

“I also was on ‘Stranger Things’ season 3,episode 2 where I portrayed an angry protester,” Matthew states. “It was really cool to meet Hopper (David Harbour) and the rest of the

Matthew is currently filming a new project in Orlando directed by Leonardo DiCaprio. “It is a TV show/documentary for the National Geographic Channel called The Right Stuff, Matthew explains. “It is about the Mercury Seven (America’s first astronauts), and filming wraps up in September,” he says.

“DiCaprio is one of my biggest idols when it comes to the world of acting.”

A high school drop-out, Matthew left his teens with a GED and later was inspired to attend and graduate with a mechanical engineering degree from UF. He began life needing someone to adopt and love him. He never knew he was adopted until he was 13, and his dad passed away shortly after Matthew’s older brother was killed in a car accident. His sister soon married, leaving just he and his adoptive mom. “I had a great childhood with an outstanding mother, loving father, and two older siblings,” he states. “Looking back, I know I put my mom through so much that I can only feel love and gratitude towards her for putting up with me and loving me unconditionally.”

Matthew has certainly matured over the years. As a teenager he began playing live solo acts and performing with bands in

Fall 2019 | 45

Matthew has written many songs, two which stand out right away. One, “Nashville,” he still owns the rights to and is particularly proud of. A second song, “Drink on Tuesday,” is a true story about Heather telling him he couldn’t drink any longer. Matthew negotiates with her to allow him to drink on Tuesday only and promptly writes a song about it, which can be found on Spotify.

Matthew Ezell is a man who is brilliant, talented in acting, singing, playing music, meeting people, writing songs, building a life for himself and his beautiful family, and always eager to meet new challenges and people. With all life is now offering, Matthew understands he has a treasure in his wife and three several different states and venues. He currently works with Scotty Williams as a duo. His original recorded music, filmed for his Freshman Composition 2 class in college, sparked the interest within to film live performances.

“After college, I worked as a project engineer building industrial systems such as power plants in Tennessee,” Matthew states.

Along the way he met a person affiliated with the TV show Nashville, who introduced him to a now close friend who has led him to his new career acting for TV and film. “She told me ’If you can walk and talk, you can act!’” Matthew says. This kind lady also guided him on pitching his own music and films, changing his life forever, for which Matthew is extremely grateful.

“By the grace of God, I met my wife while she was still in high school. She showed me a brighter day when darkness surrounded me. She taught me how to love and be loved again,” Matthew reveals. “She gave me purpose and from that purpose, came joy.”

boys, and he wants to protect that with all his might. “I select the cool opportunities now that are mostly on weekends… but I thoroughly examine them all to select what is best for me and my family.”

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Camp Weed & CER VENY CONFERENCE CENTER

By Emily Pazel

As you make your way through the gentle hills, winding roads and majestic limbs sweeping down from the historical oak trees above, you can’t help but to feel like you are about to enter a magical place.

“It’s hard to explain, but I see it happen when guests leave Camp Weed after a long weekend,” says Thomas Frazer, Executive Director at Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center. “Before leaving, everybody kind of looks back over their shoulder to sort of capture that last glimpse of White Lake and capture that serene view.”

Nestled deep off of Highway 90 near Live Oak, Camp Weed sits on a total of 547 acres of land with an incredible 84-acre lake that makes staying there for the weekend seem like something out of a dream.

Camp Weed, which was named in 1925 after the late Rt. Rev. Edwin Gardner Weed, the third Episcopal Bishop of Florida, was originally founded in St. Augustine Beach. It was later moved to the Live Oak area in 1978 to become a more central site for the Episcopal Diocese of Florida.

Since then, the camp has become a spiritual oasis for anyone looking to book a room at the lodge or in the cabins, tucked away in the woods.

“Our guests have access to the entire property,” Thomas explains. “So, whether it’s canoeing on the lake, using the climbing wall, doing team-building events on our low-ropes course or enjoying a nice nature hike around the lake or on one of our trails through the property, there’s just something for everybody to do here and enjoy.”

— Thomas Frazer Executive Director

Camp Weed also comes equipped with a large conference center, a beautiful chapel, multiple dining halls, a youth pavilion, ropes course, and endless nature trails.

“Our guests have access to the entire property,” Thomas explains. “So, whether it’s canoeing on the lake, using the climbing wall, doing teambuilding events on our low-ropes course or enjoying a nice nature hike around the lake or on one of our trails through the property, there’s just something for everybody to do here and enjoy.”

One of the things that makes Camp Weed unique is the beautiful chapel, known as Mandi’s Chapel, which sits over White Lake with large, glass windows in every direction and its stunning architectural design.

Although the majority of Camp Weed’s guests come for a conference, summer camp, family reunion, birthday party, office party or wedding celebration, the site also offers a chance for private family get-togethers or anyone just looking for a place to break away from the city life for a few days.

Camp Weed hosts several community events each year with incredible guest speakers, including a special event called the Bishop’s Institute for

Ministry and Leadership. Thomas explains that the program attracts people from all around the area and is open for anyone to attend.

“I’d have to say that our staff really makes this place more than just a bunch of buildings on a lake in North Florida,” he says. “We have an extremely dedicated and friendly staff, all the way from the bottom to the top. On a daily basis, I would say our entire staff helps make and mold people’s experiences as much as them being here with the scenery and the setting.”

If you are interested in learning more about what Camp Weed has to offer or participating in a community event, please visit campweed.org or call 386-364-5250.

Fall 2019 | 49

: Y B G U R A brotherhood on & off the field

By Emily Pazel To those who have never played rugby before, it may just seem like an 80-minute match where you tackle a few people, fight through a scrum and—if you’re lucky—even score a few points. But to players like Chris Buchanan and Noah Walker, it’s so much more than that.

“To me, what feels unique about rugby is that in other sports, once the game has ended, everyone just kind of goes their separate ways,” Chris says. “But in rugby, you don’t do that. It’s a brotherhood mentality, and you become friends with the guy that just split your eye open 20 minutes ago.”

“I dealt with, I guess, kind of what every veteran deals with when they get out of the military,” he says. “You go so long with this feeling of brotherhood, and then, all of a sudden, it’s gone.”

Thankfully, soon after Chris moved to Lake City, he was introduced to the Gainesville Hogs, a local men’s rugby team. And even though this wasn’t his first go around with the sport, he felt like he finally found his missing link.

“It feels like being in an army platoon again,” Chris expresses. “You know that no matter Chris Buchanan what, those guys have your back and have When Chris Buchanan, a paramedic with Hamilton County your best interest in mind. It really has helped fill that gap for EMS and a bartender at Halpatter Brewing Company, got out me in my mind.” of the United States Army in 2016, he moved to Lake City, Chris found the Gainesville Hogs through Noah Walker, who and the feeling of being a part of something was missing. is the director of marketing at Lake City Medical Center

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and current president of the Lake City–Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. Noah, who was introduced to Chris through Chris’s father, Jim Buchanan, said he instantly knew Chris would be perfect for the team.

“What’s really cool about the rugby culture is that it’s super welcoming,” Noah says. “And every guy, every size, has a Noah Walker place on the field as long as they have that tenacious, hardcore mentality.”

Although he grew up playing soccer, Noah had his first encounter with playing rugby right before graduating high school. His older brother introduced him to the sport while he was playing on the University of Florida Men’s Rugby Club team, where Noah also ended up playing throughout all four years of college.

people that it’s like walking into somebody you know here in Lake City; it’s a very tight-knit, cool community.”

Jokingly, Noah says he tells his rugby friends around the state that if Lake City ever created a rugby team of its own, that other teams would struggle to beat them.

“They would all need to look out because, here in Lake City,” he says, “we’re raised with a sense of brutality of hardship that the suburbs of Tampa or Orlando and the softness of South Florida couldn’t compete with.”

If you’re interested in playing rugby, or know someone that might be, Noah and Chris encourage you to check out the Gainesville Hogs’ website at gainesvillerugbyclub.com, or just come on out to a practice, ready to play.

“No experience required,” Chris says. “If you want to just try rugby, there’s no rugby team out there that won’t accept you. They will bring you in day one without even having seen a rugby match before, and you are welcome on that field just as much as any other person that’s been doing it for 20 years.”

“Physically, it’s more like football, but with the continuity of soccer,” Noah explains. “So, the play doesn’t stop like in football. Each time someone gets tackled, you have to compete for the ball.”

In rugby, the object of the game is to score more points than your opponent by carrying, kicking, passing and grounding an oval-shaped ball into the goal. On the field, you can play with either 15 or 7 players, depending on the variation of the sport that you’re playing. The game is broken down into two, 40-minute halves with a 10-minute rest between periods.

And unlike football, you’re not wearing padded gear from head to toe.

“Since you’re not wearing pads,” Chris says, “you have to be very smart about the way that you hit people, which is different from football.”

While Noah was playing at UF, he was able to be a part of the team that competed in the first-ever televised collegiate rugby tournament in the United States.

During a normal season, Noah said he would practice twice a week, watch 30 minutes of rugby every day, and would also work out on the days he didn’t practice.

“So, I was working out four times a week, and then playing a game on Saturdays, and then practicing on the field with the team on Tuesdays and Thursdays,” he explains.

Although Noah took off this season due to having several work commitments, he plans to be back in the future when he has more time to invest in the sport.

“Rugby is like a big family,” Noah says. “I could go to any rugby event on the east coast and have five to ten friends that I didn’t even coordinate going with. I’ve always told

Fall 2019 | 51

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IF YOU QUALIFY

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Multi-Specialty Research Associates, Inc. started a free community-wide appreciation event in 2018.

This is their second year, and the event is bigger than ever! The entire family is welcomed. Come and enjoy not only kids games, but carnival games also. You will want to try the video game limo for sure.

The Lake City Fire Department will be grilling a FREE hotdog lunch. The event benefits the Lake City Columbia County Humane Society and the Christmas Dream Machine. Mystic Jungle, CrossFit 1075, hydroblast bell ringer, and face painting are just a few of the many planned activities. This event is known for family fun, prize giveaways, and support of local charities! Like our Facebook page for all the information and updates.

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FAMILY

FamilyMagazine

“Be in the moment—that’s really all you can do.

The time’s just going to fly by, and you’re going to wish you had it back.”

—Joy Lutz Yardbird Photography

Fall 2019 | 55

MOTHERHOOD WITH

By Jeweliana Register Curtis Yardbird Photography

Born and raised in Lake City, Joy Lutz is a wife, mom and business owner. While she wears all of her titles well, Joy knows the pressure that comes with managing her personal and professional sides. Whether you are a stay-athome mom or a working parent, you can find value and encouragement in Joy’s advice to those in busy seasons of life.

Joy and her husband, Owen, welcomed their newest addition to the family this year, a beautiful brown-eyed girl named Avery. Their two daughters, Ashton, 17, and Emily, 8, were thrilled to have a new baby sister, especially one as sweet and happy as Avery. With their adorable new addition came a few changes and lessons, so check out Joy’s top five tips when it comes to balancing the everyday tasks with motherhood.

LEARN TO DELEGATE

Aside from her full-time job as mom, Joy has owned her Lake City CPA firm, Aligned CPA, for nearly eight years.

Absolutely enjoying what she does, Joy knew she had a tight-knit team on board at Aligned CPA. She realized just how tight-knit when discovering she was pregnant and would be giving birth to Avery in the midst of her busiest time of year—tax season! But ever the planner and business coach, Joy delegated tasks to her team, providing her with much needed support during such a busy season.

“Always try to delegate. I have done so much better with that since I was pregnant because I knew that I couldn’t keep doing the same amount of work as I was before; so, I had to learn to delegate better,” she explains. “You just have to have the right team and the right process. Don’t be scared to ask for help.”

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STOP SEARCHING FOR BALANCE

As a parent, it is definitely difficult to avoid feeling as though you need to balance it all perfectly—your job, your family, your social life, the list goes on…

But Joy wants to let everyone in on her best-kept secret: there is never going to be a perfect balance.

“There’s definitely not a balance for me. I think everyone is always looking for that, but you’re never going to feel like you’re doing well in all things. You really just work in the moment. If Avery is fussing and crying, I won’t work, knowing I’ll make it up the next day,” Joy explains.

“I’m fortunate to be able to do that, but I think going with the flow is great.”

UTILIZE TECHNOLOGY

It may seem like a no-brainer, but when you are trying to work with a newborn, use technology to your advantage.

Schedule conference calls via Skype or find a program that allows you to work from home when possible. Joy loves being able to work from her phone or her laptop when Avery naps, saying it has made her extremely efficient and tends to keep her unnecessary scrolling to a minimum.

“Technology is just a game changer. Even now, I work from home and I’m in the office a few times a week. I’m trying to keep Avery with me as long as possible.

I think that’s the fun part, just being able to do all of this with her and not have to have someone else watch her while I work. It’s definitely made me more efficient though. If she’s taking a nap, I think ‘Okay, I have two hours. What can I get done?’ There’s no browsing Amazon or looking at Facebook,” Joy laughs.

AVOID COMPARISON

Comparison is often described as the thief of joy, and that could not be more true when it comes to parenting.

Whether you are comparing your home to a perfectly clean friend’s or your fun family photo to a perfect-looking one on Instagram, give yourself grace and allow yourself to just be you! Your children love you just the way you are!

“As a new mom, you think you need to be able to do it all, and you just can’t.

Even household stuff, even if you’re not working, still ask for help. If you’re fortunate to, hire help,” Joy suggests. “You don’t have to be Wonder Woman. You don’t! You just have to love your baby and hold them often.”

BE IN THE MOMENT

We understand some days can be chaotic, but Joy encourages parents to truly try living in the moment each day.

Your emails can wait until tomorrow morning, and the dishes can be done later—your precious time with your babies is what matters the most. After all, no one really remembers having a perfectly clean home growing up, but they do remember the memories they shared with the people who love them the most.

“Social media paints a fake picture for moms.

You see the pictures of new moms with smiling babies, perfect homes, enjoying the gym, meal planning, and all of the stuff, but it's just not true! Those pictures may be showing someone's best moments.

That's not everyday life. Give yourself grace and stop comparing your journey to pictures online. You don’t have to be Wonder Woman! You don’t! You just have to love your baby and hold them often.”

—Joy Lutz

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Recipe and photo: modernhoney.com/mjs-award-winning-beef-chili

Fall 2019 | 57

Kooper Oaklyn Dicks 6 months

0 -

1 2

MONTHS

AN OVERVIEW

of milestones

What to expect from your little one during the first 12 months

By Jeweliana Register Curtis Captured Memories by Esta

Preparation is key. While it is common knowledge there are early birds and late bloomers, the general developmental milestones for children can provide a guideline for new parents as their babies mature. It is important to note these milestones are meant to be merely utilized as a guide, so check with your doctor on specific developmental milestones for your child. Use this guide as an overview of what to expect from your baby, gaining insight for what the next few months may hold.

Everett Summers 11 months

1 MONTH

Congratulations, new mom and dad.

After nine months, you are finally able to hold your little bundle of joy and begin your journey into parenthood.

This month is used to adjust to your new life with a baby, meaning lots of diaper changes, feeding sessions and nap times. During this month, your baby will begin to recognize your voice and is able to lift his or her head briefly.

Consider giving baby plenty of tummy time each day and really get to know his or her cues. Knowing how your baby acts when hungry, sleepy or ready to play will go a long way in the coming months.

3 MONTHS

Now that you are a few months in, you may be adjusting to your new life as a parent, soaking in all the little babbles and sweet smiles from your little one.

During tummy time, your baby will be able to lift their head and chest, as well as open and close their hands. While they may not be rolling over just yet, your baby will be laying the

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Teagan Reese 7 months

groundwork, strengthening his or her motor skills. Introduce your baby to toys and objects with which they can play. This sparks curiosity and healthy exploration. Much bonding time happens between parents and babies between one and three months, laying the foundation for years to come. Don’t miss this bonding time. It is so important for your child’s mental development.

4–7 MONTHS

By this stage, your little girl or boy will likely be on the move! Thriving from interactions with close family, such as playtime, he or she may find games like peekaboo fun. Sometime within these developmental months, your baby will begin to support their own weight with their legs, sit without help, and roll around on their tummy or back. A big goal for these months is to begin to establish a routine with your baby, like sleeping through the night, napping at a certain time and regular feedings. Speaking of feedings, your baby may be ready for solid foods around 6 months. Check with your pediatrician before introducing solid foods.

8 MONTHS–1 YEAR

Coming into the eight-month mark and beyond, your baby will begin to get very active, scooting around and using objects to begin to take guided steps. Soon, your baby will speak his first words, quickly turning his or her babble into small conversations. As you approach the one-year mark, your baby may begin to take their first steps on their own—a moment you will surely want to capture on film if possible.

During these months, you will want to be intentional about talking with your baby, describing objects and tasks to them.

You may also enjoy reading to your child and introducing toys to their radar, sparking curiosity and encouraging exploration. Be sure to encourage good behavior during these months, as your child is quickly developing and soaking everything in like a sponge.

D A D When the time comes “Aliquip ex foreaparents tocommo take their newborns home, new do conse moms and dads take on different quat, alior roles.

Momsmisl who areut nursing handling of the bottlequip the exbulkduis feeding, lot of times, have more autem vel opportunities than fathers to bond eum with theiririure.” new babies.

Ryker Kai Bedenbaugh 6 days

Enjoy Your Baby!

The biggest milestone of all is to relax and enjoy your baby. Your baby from birth to 1 year needs your love and warmth. This tiny bundle is unable to convey complex emotions, but he or she is still able to feel when a parent is happy or stressed.

Tips to help new fathers bond with their babies

has as much to do with contact as involvement. Many first-time parents are understandably nervous about holding their newborns, who seem so fragile. But newborns benefit from being held, and Hill notes that a bond will develop between father and baby if there is physical contact.

• Be a part of the bedti e routine A consistent bedtime schedule is very important to help your baby sleep through the night. Choose a part of • old our bab as often as the routine you want to be involved possible Pediatrician David Hill, author of the book Between Us Dads: in like bathtime. This will help baby understand that when Dad says its A Father’s Guide to Child Health, says bonding between father and newborn bathtime, it will be bedtime soon too.

Here are a few ways for new dads to bond with their newborns:

Kole (5 months) and Ericka McGee

• ake on diaper dut as often as possible Sure, there's a little ickfactor, but diaper duty is also a time to bond. Even though it may be a little smelly, you get to talk to your baby and make eye-contact, which helps your baby learn your voice and be comforted by your presence.

Bonding with a newborn can be overwhelming for some dads. We hope these tips can help find fun ways for him to spend time with his little one.

The baby in your arms picks up on the bodily responses accompanying your emotional state; so, find ways to decrease your stress levels through deep breathing, exercising, eating right, getting some fresh air, asking your partner for a de-stressing rub-down, taking some me-time when you can, or even meditating for a healthier you and a healthier baby. If you feel you’ve got so much stress that even these stress-busters can’t reduce it, speak to your practitioner or turn to a therapist for help.

To learn more, check out this HuffPost Wellness article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/infantmother-stress_n_4718360

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5 THINGS

ALL NEW PARENTS SHOULD KNOW

By Jeweliana Register Curtis

Everyone Makes Mistakes

While it may seem that every mom and dad you see on Instagram has this whole parenting thing down, trust us—everyone makes mistakes. They just avoid documenting them! Learn to give grace when you feel you or your partner have messed up with parenting. Everyone makes mistakes, and the mistakes usually make for a funny story later on. Trust your instincts and learn from your mistakes.

You are doing great!

Allow Others To Help You

It can be tempting to say no to help, especially if you are an independent person, but it is okay to ask for or accept help in this season. Whether it’s allowing grandma to hold your newborn so you can shower or having a friend watch your baby so you can sneak in a quick nap, accepting help does not mean you are weak. Allow others to bless you when they offer— you will be so thankful for their help!

Make Connecting With Your Partner A Priority

It may seem like a no-brainer, but often a new baby can mean throwing quality time with your spouse out of the window. Prioritizing a date night with your partner or sitting down for a catch-up chat after the baby is in bed is crucial for the success of your relationship. Connecting is important; so be sure to set aside time for you and your spouse to truly connect often.

4 Don’t Let Guilt Rule Your Life

Do you feel guilty spending time away from your baby? Maybe you feel a sense of guilt creeping in as you see what other parents are doing with their children. Either way, it is easy to let feelings of mom or dad guilt creep in every now and again. When you feel that pang of guilt, remind yourself of all the ways you are a great parent. The list is endless, and the fact that you worry about being a good parent often means you are one!

Soak It All In

While you are in the midst of changing dirty diapers and cleaning up messy meal times, it may seem like this stage of your life may go on forever. The reality is that the days will turn into years, and before you know it, your little one will be learning to drive and preparing to go off to college. Don’t forget to soak in every moment you have with your child—the good, the fun and the messy!

The Spinks Family

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Fall 2019 | 61

Shands Lake Shore Obstetrics, Gynecology & Birth Center

By Emily Pazel

A Local Treasure in Women's Healthcare Services When you come to visit Eric Márquez, MD, at Lake Shore Obstetrics and Gynecology, you are more than just a number in the waiting room— to him, you are family.

Dr. Márquez, started at Shands Lake Shore Regional Medical Center’s OB-GYN and The Birth Center in 2017, right after he finished his residency training in Puerto Rico, where he’s from originally.

From the start, Dr. Márquez had a deep passion for working with women and their families during one of life’s most beautiful moments—the birth of a child.

Eric Márquez, MD delivering baby Gaskins at Shands Lake Shore

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“When you deliver babies, you also develop strong bonds with your patients and their families,” Dr. Márquez says.

“You become an essential part of the entire process and the beautiful moments of pregnancy and childbirth.”

When Dr. Márquez started medical school, he just wanted to become a general practitioner, but soon realized his passion would take him in a different direction.

“When you begin your career in the medical field, you love what you do and you just want to go further,” he says. “I considered internal medicine and general surgery during medical school. Then, I did my clinical rotation in obstetrics and gynecology and I found the perfect balance between the two of them. This is when I decided to continue my training in obstetrics and gynecology."

Questions About Infertility?

It’s always a special time in a couple’s life when they decide to start a family, but what happens when starting a family is more complicated than you thought?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, infertility is more common than you think. In fact, out of 100 couples in the United States, about 12 to 13 of them will have trouble becoming pregnant.

Eric Márquez, MD

Lake Shore Obstetrics and Gynecology

So, what’s the reasoning behind all of this?

Dr. Márquez says there could be a few different reasons behind a couple being infertile. For women, the main cause of infertility is due to ovulation problems.

However, about 30 percent of infertility cases are also caused by the male factor.

Maternity Room at Shands Lake Shore

About Shands OB-GYN & the Birth Center What makes the Birth Center at Shands Lake Shore unique is that it’s the only hospital that delivers babies throughout Columbia, Bradford, Hamilton and Suwannee Counties, according to Linda Silecchia, the Director of Marketing at Lake Shore Shands Regional Medical Center.

here at the Birth Center in Lake City that you can get in bigger cities like Gainesville or Jacksonville,” Dr. Márquez says. “We are able to offer the same quality care locally so patients can stay close to their families and don’t have to drive an hour away to get the quality care they need.”

In November 2013, the fourth-floor maternity unit of the hospital, also known as The Birth Center, underwent a $3.4 million renovation project, which included 14 private suites.

Women of all ages can benefit from the services at Lake Shore Obstetrics and Gynecology, as they provide a full range of women’s healthcare services. From prenatal and maternity care to annual exams, birth control, and treatment for gynecological conditions,

“We provide the same obstetrical and gynecologic services

they are here to provide care to women throughout the community. The hospital also offers digital mammography, bone density services, comprehensive imaging and diagnostic services, nuclear medicine, MRI, CT and 3D ultrasound.

“Our patients are treated like family and they are not just a number,” says Dr. Márquez. “Our obstetrical patients stay with us and continue their gynecological care after delivering. In the same way, many of their family members decide to stay with us once they meet us”.

“For patients that are contemplating to get pregnant, they should stay healthy and stay active,” says Dr. Márquez. “You should also start taking folic acid whenever possible, or at least one to three months before getting pregnant, as this helps prevent spina bifida.”

Although there’s no specific timeline, Dr. Márquez explains that it’s always good to have a pre-pregnancy evaluation. This way, you can go over everything, identify and work on any issues before becoming pregnant, such as glycemic levels or even medications you’re currently taking.

“It’s good to come see me before you conceive so that we can make sure the baby is as healthy as possible,” Dr. Márquez suggests.

If you, or someone you know, is struggling with infertility, you should know you’re not alone. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Márquez at Lake Shore Obstetrics and Gynecology for your pre-pregnancy evaluation, call 386-292-7800 or stop by their downtown Lake City office.

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Keeping It Local For many people, driving to Gainesville or Jacksonville to deliver a baby can seem like a daunting task. Having the Birth Center at Lake Shore locally in downtown Lake City is important to ease the stress associated with traveling out of town for childbirth services.

“We offer quality healthcare that’s convenient and close to home,” Linda says. “And it’s for all generations of women. It’s a family environment as well, and the nursing staff is invested in the care of each patient.”

For Dr. Márquez, seeing the joy in his patients’ faces is all he needs to know he has found his true calling in life.

“I love the people here,” he says.

“Seeing my patients out and about in the community, especially when you see them with their baby that you delivered a few months ago—it’s extremely rewarding.”

Dr. Márquez and his wife have a son who’s now 13 years old. He understands the importance of family.

“In that very moment of the delivery, the only thing you can think about is—happiness,” he expresses. “This is a moment when you get to see what people are made of. This is a very special moment for all the family, and I am just blessed with the opportunity to be there to serve them. I am humbled to be a part of these special moments.”

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Dr. Márquez says he would like the people of Lake City to know Lake Shore OB-GYN welcomes any patient who is seeking quality healthcare here in our community.

“Because once people know us, they will want to stay with us,” he says.

“People will see that this is a familyfriendly environment, that we engage in their care, that this will be a personal relationship, and that they will be well taken care of every step of the way.”

This October, Dr. Márquez will be a special guest speaker at the Shands Lake Shore Annual Breast Health Lecture at the Holiday Inn. Linda explains this is a great opportunity to come and meet Dr. Márquez in an informal setting and even talk with him after the lecture to get to know him better. For more information regarding the next lecture, please visit ShandsLakeShore.com.

Dr. Márquez participates in Shands Lake Shore’s free community lectures throughout the year. This is an informative way to learn about the topics concerning women’s health.

“I love the people here. Seeing my patients out and about in the community, especially when you see them with their baby that you delivered a few months ago—it’s extremely rewarding.”

—Dr. Márquez

Schedule A

TOUR To schedule a free tour of The Birth Center, please call 386-292-7800 or visit ShandsBaby.com.

Fall 2019 | 65

GET

FIT

With Nik

By Jeweliana Register Curtis

Transforming Fitness For the Everyday Woman Who says moms can’t be fit?

Maybe you are a mom-to-be or have been a mom for many years now, but whatever your story, you deserve to feel great in the skin you’re in. If you’re searching for a beautiful community full of supportive women who have your back, consider jumping into your fitness journey with Nikki Griswold, personal trainer and founder of Get Fit with Nik.

Nikki Griswold

Nikki has been working in the personal training arena for over ten years, but it was not until 2016 that she felt a tug on her heart to create a workout space just for women. With the seed planted to start a business by her husband, and some encouragement by a good friend, Nikki set out to create a life-changing experience for women centered around

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nutrition, health and fitness.

Since its founding, Get Fit with Nik has expanded and grown tremendously, and Nikki currently works with over 70 local ladies each week.

did not stress the importance of working out at the time due to moving and other life transitions. After attending a class at her mother’s suggestion, Kayla was hooked.

“It was a God thing for sure, I started with one or two ladies, and then the word got out, and I filled up all my personal training slots,” Nikki says.

“Before I knew it, they turned into small groups, then bigger groups, and here we are!”

“The atmosphere of working out with other women—it was just so different from what I had been doing for so long. I was like, ‘Yes! Sign me up!’” Kayla expresses about her first workout with Nikki. “I worked out twice a week until literally the day before I had my daughter.”

Their tight-knit community is full of inspiring women who build each other up and create genuine friendships through their health journeys.

The ladies keep in touch through their Facebook group, completing nutrition and daily movement challenges together. Nikki describs her community as a supportive group of ladies, saying if someone missed a few weeks of classes, they would receive a check-in message from not only Nikki, but also the other ladies in the class. Now that’s community!

A wife and mother, Kayla Hebert first met Nikki during the third trimester of her first pregnancy. She described herself as pretty active, but she

Help your children learn healthy exercise habits Getting kids to be more active may be especially difficult for today’s parents who must contend with the internet, social media, tablets, smartphones, and other distractions as they try to encourage their kids to unplug and spend more time being physically active. But parents can try various strategies to get kids off the couch and exercising.

• et a ositi e exa e. ids, es ecia y youn chi dren, o ten try to e u ate their arents. Parents can ca ita i e on ids desire to e i e o and dad y exercisin in ront o their chi dren. n ite ids a on or dai y i e rides or o or a i y a s around the nei h orhood a ter dinner.

• Par the car. ids don t need to no they re exercisin in order to e ore hysica y acti e. n ieu o dri in to the an or har acy, arents can ea e the car at ho e and ride their i es a on side their chi dren hen runnin errands.

• Choose riend riend y acti ities.

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Kayla Hebert

• i e i ts that encoura e hysica acti ity. ids i ht ant the atest de ice or ideo a e or their irthdays, ut arents a so can i e i ts that encoura e youn sters to e hysica y acti e. uch as icyc es, ro er ades, and s orts e ui ent.

3 WORKOUTS

FOR NEW MOMS & MOMS TO BE

After being cleared by her doctor, Kayla began working with Nikki, and after just a few months postpartum, she was back at pre-baby weight and had lost an additional ten pounds. (Way to go Kayla!) She is now expecting a second little one and is ecstatic to work out with Nikki throughout her entire pregnancy. Contributing her quick recovery period postbaby number one to her active last trimester, Kayla now finds so much value in moving her body during pregnancy.

pushed, so it wasn’t a shock to my body.”

what stage of life they find themselves.

In addition to the physical benefits of working out while pregnant, Kayla also describes the mental and emotional benefits of staying active.

“I have ladies at all fitness levels. I just want ladies to know that no matter where you’re at, whether you’ve never worked out before a day in your life, or if you are at that fitness level where you are a beast, I have something for you,” Nikki says. “All of the ladies within the classes have been at just about every fitness level imaginable. You’ll never come into a class where ladies are being judgmental.

Everyone is encouraging and supportive of you, no matter where you are on your fitness journey, because we’re all on the journey together.”

“I think it helps so much mentally as well. When you’re pregnant, your body is changing so much, and it’s hard to watch that happen, but staying active and working out helps.” Kayla expresses. “Knowing this is good for you and your baby.

“I think it definitely helps Working out can help get with your energy throughout you through mentally on your pregnancy. You’re those hard days when you’re growing another human life; thinking ‘Ugh, my clothes so, you’re exhausted all the aren’t fitting anymore. This is time. Even when you’re not terrible!’” pregnant, working out gives you that additional energy,” Whether you are a new Kayla explains. “My labor, mom, a mom to teenagers, delivery and recovery went or even thinking of so smoothly, and I contribute becoming a mom one day, a lot of that to how active I Nikki has a passion for was. My muscles were used helping women accomplish to being stretched and being their fitness goals, no matter

For more information about Get Fit with Nik, or to learn about her community, visit Get Fit with Nik on Facebook, or call 386-697-3958.

Looking for a workout you can implement today? Nikki suggests making modifications to your usual workout routine when you are pregnant or postpartum. Check out these three moves that can get your body moving right away. If you are pregnant or a few months postpartum, be sure to consult your physician to ensure you are not high-risk and are cleared to work out.

BOX SQUATS While normal squats may be quite difficult a few months into pregnancy, box squats provide an effective workout for the same muscles, just in a different way. Complete your reps by alternating sitting on the box and standing tall. Viola, squats— but without the discomfort!

WALL PUSH UPS Normal push-ups can be almost impossible with a pregnancy belly, so Nikki suggests taking your push-ups to the wall instead. It works on the same muscles and yields similar results in a much safer way.

MODIFIED JUMPING JACKS Jumping is prohibited during your last trimester, so opt for modified jumping jacks to get your heart rate up during exercise. These have a much lower impact and avoid the jumping motion that could be harmful during pregnancy.

Fall 2019 | 67

ELKS LODGE

Helping Children Develop and Grow

By Emily Pazel

For decades, the Florida State Elks Association has generously supported its community by providing programs such as the Elks Children’s Therapy Program, which brings free mobile, in-home therapy services to children in need across the state.

Beginning in 1933, the association received a donation for a hotel in Umatilla, Florida, that was turned into the Harry-Anna Home for Crippled Children, a facility that offered free treatment to children within the state who suffered from orthopedic diseases and disabilities.

“After the hospital closed, the association came up with a better business model where they took their services on the road,” said Chris Lydick, District Vice President for the Northern Office of the Florida State Elks Association and former Exalted Ruler of Lake City Elks Lodge #893. “They started out with a few vans and therapists, and it grew from there.”

Today, this service has grown to include 26 mobile units and several licensed therapists who are now employed by the Florida Elks.

“The service is still free of charge to those who meet eligibility requirements,” Lydick says. “We’ll often times watch the news and try to track down individuals who we think would benefit from this service the most.”

Chris Lydick, District Vice President for the Northern Office of the Florida State Elks Association

For over 66 years, the hospital managed to take care of countless children who faced crippling diseases such as polio or birth defects that affected everyday life. Each patient who came through the door was offered these services for free.

As time passed and medical procedures advanced, extended hospital stays for rehabilitation were no longer necessary, and the hospital was forced to close its doors in 1999.

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The therapy service provided to patients is not government funded, but instead, funded by the Florida Elks Charitable Trust Fund, Elks Lodges, various Florida Elks ladies’ organizations, the Elks National Foundation and from public donations.

From the Panhandle down to the Florida Keys, Florida Elks has around 56,000 men and women who dedicate their time to the communities around them.

To read the stories from some of the children who have benefited from this service or to find a patient application, please visit floridaelks.org.

Harry Anna Investment Fund, Inc. "Together We Can Do Great Things" Of everything that the Florida Elks do, perhaps nothing is more important than our work with the state’s youth. Sowing the seeds of accomplishment and commitment through our Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services and Florida Elks Youth Camp programs, children are given the opportunity to grow and learn beyond their wildest imaginations.

The trust fund, started in 1951, was named after Harry and Anna Miller who donated land and a building to establish the original Florida Elks Hospital for Crippled Children. Its purpose was, and continues to be, the collection of donations and the acceptance of endowed gifts.

The trust fund is restricted, which means that only the income derived from it may be used to support our major projects: the Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services and Florida Elks Youth Camp programs.

MAKING YOUR DONATION An online donation is the quickest and easiest way to support the trust fund efforts.

If you are interested in making an immediate change in the lives of others, please visit https://floridaelks. org/florida-elks-trust-fund

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Fall 2019 | 69

Providing

C A R E for children and their families in Columbia County

By Emily Pazel

Wolfson Children’s Specialty Center brings outpatient pediatric specialty care close to home.

If you’ve ever taken a stroll in Lake City’s historic downtown, you may have come across a large, red-brick building with white columns across the front entrance. It’s known to many in the area as the old State Exchange Bank building from the 1970s. Today, the building houses one of Lake City’s very own pediatric care units—the Wolfson Children’s Specialty Center.

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The Specialty Center first opened its doors in June 2011, according to Elin Schwarz, MS, CCC-SLP, the Rehabilitation Services Manager. It provides highquality, family-centered services to children around the local community, including a full range of outpatient pediatric cardiology, rehabilitation, physical medicine and rehab/physiatry, and ear, nose and throat care.

“Wolfson Children’s Hospital of Jacksonville designed the center to bring our specialized pediatric outpatient medical services to the children of Columbia County and the surrounding areas,” Schwarz explains. “Our Wolfson Children’s rehabilitation team provides physical, occupational, speech and feeding services to children of all ages.”

The Specialty Center has a special focus on helping to treat children who have sensory, fine motor and self-help challenges, as well as difficulty with walking, balance and coordination.

“Having the Wolfson Children’s Specialty Center in Lake City affords families the opportunity to obtain the highest quality care from pediatric trained professionals in the rural area,” Schwarz says.

With the Specialty Center located right here in Lake City, families who would have to travel outside the county in order to get specialized pediatric care can stay close to home, although procedures and surgeries take place at Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville.

Rehabilitation therapists at the Specialty Center have specialized training in the areas of autism, infant feeding and lactation counseling.

“Wolfson Children’s is an asset to the residents of Columbia County, as our clinic partners with the University of Florida College of Medicine—Jacksonville, Nemours Children’s Specialty Care—Jacksonville, and others to provide the best care possible to the pediatric population,” Schwarz says.

The clinic has grown in leaps and bounds since opening. In fact, they will be moving to a larger location in the Spring 2020 located at 3650 NW Devane Street, Lake City, FL 32055.

Wolfson Children’s main hospital campus is located in Jacksonville and was originally founded in 1955. Once opened, its main mission was to provide a place for all children to be admitted and treated without regard to creed, religion, race or financial position, which still remains true today. In addition to the Specialty Center in Lake City, Wolfson has six other Specialty Centers throughout Florida and South Georgia.

For more information regarding the Wolfson Children’s Specialty Center in Lake City, please feel free to visit wolfsonchildrens.com/locations/lake-city, or call 386-758-1811.

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3 Easy-Peasy Healthy SNACKS

By Jeweliana Register Curtis

APPLE COOKIES

Who doesn’t want to provide their kids with a healthy, delicious afternoon snack?

Recipe and photo courtesy of paleoeatsandtreats.com

Ingredients 1 apple 1/4 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup almonds, sliced 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped 1/4 cup shredded coconut 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

We know all about the pressure of choosing a healthy snack for your little one that isn’t packed with preservatives and loaded with sugar. Whether you are looking for a new snack to add to your rotation or find a healthy treat your child will love, check out these three easy-peasy healthy snack ideas that can be made in fifteen minutes or less.

FROZEN BANANA BITES Recipe and photo courtesy of healthylittlefoodies.com

Ingredients: 1 ripe banana, sliced into 2 cm slices Peanut butter or nut butter of your choice Chia seed jam or jam of your choice Directions: After cutting the banana into 2 cm slices, spread the nut butter on top, then add a dollop of the jam of your choice. Finish off with another slice of banana on top to create a banana sandwich. Place the banana treat on a lined baking sheet to prepare for the freezer. Freeze the banana bites for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezable bag. These treats are not only delicious and sweet, but they last over a month in the freezer!

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STRAWBERRY FROYO BARK Recipe and photo courtesy of hellowonderful.com

Ingredients: Yogurt of your choice Freeze-dried strawberry slices Directions: Begin by lining a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Next, spread a layer of yogurt across the pan, ensuring the layer is not too thin, as to prevent difficulty in cracking the treat later on. Finish off by laying dried strawberries in your desired pattern across the yogurt, pressing them gently into the yogurt. Freeze the treat until completely frozen (about 4 hours), peel the snack from the parchment paper, and break into pieces.

Customize this recipe by using additional fruits, or by adding nuts and seeds!

Directions: After removing the core and slicing the apple into thin rings, spread the peanut butter (or nut butter of your choice) over one side of the apple. Top with sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, and mini chocolate chips. This recipe is not only super simple, but it can be customized to fit your little one’s taste and dietary needs.

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A Louisiana-Style

Thanksgiving Feast WI TH C HRISTIN E BREWER

By Jeweliana Register Curtis Holly Frazier Photography

It’s a Cajun celebration! Join us for a taste of traditional Louisiana as Christine Brewer hosts a Thanksgiving-style meal for the men and women behind the Happy Art Fiesta.

Between the spicy fragrance of rich gumbo and the stories shared amongst friends, it is clear the evening was full of fun, laughter and amazing food.

An avid artist with Louisiana roots that run deep, Christine ensures no one goes hungry at her table. Allow yourself to be transported to lively and exciting New Orleans with a taste of delicious stuffed mirlitons and delight yourself with a slice of soft amaretto cake, complete with a big scoop of dreamy amaretto ice cream. If this sounds right up your alley, keep reading for a peek at Christine’s family recipe book that is sure to make your next meal unforgettable.

David and Christine Brewer with furbaby Pepper

Fall 2019 | 77

GRANDMOTHER ZILLAH’S STUFFED MIRLITONS (CHAYOTE SQUASH) The perfect side that compliments any dish!

Ingredients: 4 mirlitons or squash 1 cup of soft bread crumbs 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 clove of garlic, minced 3 tablespoons butter 1/2 teaspoon salt Dash of black pepper 1 egg, well beaten 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped 1/2 cup of buttered bread crumbs

The Happy Art Fiesta crew celebrates their team with this special meal by Christine Brewer, Art League of North Florida President.

AUNT JOSIE’S HOMEMADE ARTICHOKE BALLS The perfect appetizer, these artichoke balls

by Christine’s Aunt Josie Murphy are simply divine.

Instructions: Start by simmering mirlitons in salted water until tender. Cut each in half, remove seeds and scoop out pulp. Chop pulp and add soft bread crumbs to the mixture. Over medium heat, melt butter then add onion and garlic, sauté till tender (about 5 minutes).

Stir in pulp mixture, salt and pepper, continuing to cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Let cool 5 minutes. Add egg and parsley and mix thoroughly. Once all combined, place in a buttered baking dish. Cover with buttered bread crumbs and bake in a 375 degree oven for 30 minutes. Enjoy!

If desired, add one of the following variations: 1/2 pound shrimp added to butter, onion and garlic mixture and sautéed until shrimp are pink.

1/2 pound cooked ham, finely chopped, added to butter, onion and garlic, sautéed until vegetables are tender.

Ingredients: 2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 8-ounce cans artichoke hearts, drained, mashed 2 eggs, slightly beaten 3/4 cup Italian-style bread crumbs 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup Romano cheese

Instructions: Start by sautéing the garlic in olive oil in a skillet. Add the artichokes and eggs and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Combine 1/2 cup of bread crumbs with 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of the Romano cheese. Add to the artichoke mixture. Stir to blend and allow to cool. Form the mixture into small balls and roll them in a mixture of the remaining cheeses and bread crumbs. Before serving, chill until firm.

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MOM’S BAKED RICE Looking for the perfect recipe for baked rice? Look no further than this recipe from Christine’s mother, Sharon Gauthreaux.

Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked rice 1/4 cup butter 2 tablespoons chopped celery 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 2 tablespoons chopped green onions 1 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon red pepper 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 10 ounces beef broth or beef bouillon 3/4 cup water

Optional: Season with a 1/2 cup of diced ham or link sausage.

Instructions: Simply mix together all ingredients and cook at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. If rice is stiff after cooking, continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes. This pairs beautifully with a variety of seasoned meat!

It does not matter what is on the table, but rather who is seated at the table.

EVELYN’S SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE Christine’s sister-in-law, Evelyn Gauthreaux, stole our hearts with this recipe for ooey-gooey, sweet potato casserole!

Ingredients: 3-4 cups freshly mashed sweet potatoes 1 cup brown sugar 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup melted butter 1 small can crushed pineapple, drained

Topping Ingredients: 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup flour 1/3 cup melted butter (always add a bit more than a third) 1 ½ cups chopped pecans

Instructions: Begin by combining the first 6 ingredients in a bowl. Blend thoroughly and pour into a buttered 1 1/2 to 2-quart casserole dish. Mix remaining ingredients together and sprinkle over top.

Bake at 350 for 30 to 40 minutes, until hot and browned. Add marshmallows to the top, if desired, for the last 5 minutes of baking time.

Fall 2019 | 79

CHRISTINE’S AMAZING AMARETTO PINEAPPLE ICE CREAM TOOTSIE’S MY (Makes 1 quart) PIE BANANA

drizzle glaze over top of Amaretto Cake. Use brush or spoon to put extra dripping back on cake.

Note: The amaretto will cause steam. Be careful not to burn yourself!

Ingredients: Ingredients:

2 pie crusts 2 eggs made or frozen) 2 cups (scratch heavy cream 1 cup 1 cup milksugar teaspoons 3/4 2cup sugar flour 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 small can of crushed pineapple This banana pie, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla straight from Christine’s grandmother’s recipe 1/2 4-5 cup bananas, amaretto sliced archives, makes the best 2 tablespoons butter, holiday treat!

Instructions: cut into pieces

MURPHY’S AMARETTO CAKE

What’s better than homemade ice cream? Homemade Instructions: amaretto pineapple ice cream, of course!

Begin by liningeggs a 9-inch pie panbowl withand halfslowly of theincorporate crust. Roll the Begin by whisking in a mixing sugar. remaining crust for top of pie and set aside.

Preheat oven at 400 Add heavy cream and milk to the mixture. Add drained pineapple and degrees. sugar,forflour and spices in atoseparate bowl, thenfor 20 vanilla.

ChillMix mixture 2 hours.

Transfer churn and churn spread a little of and the sugar mixture over bottom of the lined 10 minutes.

Stop churn add amaretto, thenthe churn for an additional pastry pan.

Layer sliced bananas over sugar mixture.

Continue minutes. Freeze for 2 hours before serving. alternating sugar and bananas until pastry is full. Dot with butter pieces. Place top crust on pie and seal top. Cut slits in top in the patternAMARETTO of your choice. BakeCAKE 50 to 60 minutes, or until MURPHY’S crust is brown. Serve warm.

Cake Ingredients:

Cake Ingredients:

Glaze Ingredients:

1 cup chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts 1 18-1/2 ounce yellowAMAZING cake mix AMARETTO CHRISTINE’S PINEAPPLE ICE CREAM One package instant vanilla pudding mix (Makes 1 quart) 4 eggs 1/2 Ingredients: cup cold milk 1/2 2cup vegetable oil eggs 1/2 2cup Amaretto cups heavy cream Glaze Ingredients: 1 cup milk 1/2 3/4 cup cup butter sugar 1/4 1cup water small can of crushed pineapple 1 cup sugar What’s better than homemade ice cream?

1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup Amaretto Homemade amaretto 1/2 cup amaretto pineapple ice cream, of Instructions:

course!

Instructions: Christine’s brother, Murphy Gauthreaux, is known for his delicious of the cake.incorporate Begin adaptation by whisking eggs in aclassic mixingamaretto bowl and slowly sugar.

Add heavydegrees creaminand milk to theGrease mixture.

Add drained Preheat oven to 325 preparation. and flour 12-cup pineapple vanilla. mixture hours. Transfer Bundt pan andand sprinkle nutsChill on bottom of for pan.2 Combine all caketo churn and for220 minutes. and add amaretto, ingredients, andchurn beat for minutes on Stop high churn with electric mixer.

Pour then churn for an additional 10 minutes.

Freeze for 2 hours into prepared pan. Bake for 1 hour and allow to cool in pan. For the serving. glaze,before melt butter in saucepan, and stir in water and sugar. Boil 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in amaretto, set aside. Invert the cooled cake on serving plate. Prick top with fork, and

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1 cup chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts 1 18-1/2-ounce yellow cake mix One package instant vanilla pudding mix 4 eggs 1/2 cup cold milk 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup Amaretto 1/2 cup butter 1/4 cup water 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup amaretto

Instructions:

Christine’s brother, Murphy Gauthreaux, is known for his delicious adaptation of the classic amaretto cake.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees in preparation. Grease and flour 12-cup Bundt pan and sprinkle nuts on bottom of pan. Combine all cake ingredients and beat for 2 minutes on high with electric mixer. Pour into prepared pan. Bake for 1 hour and allow to cool in pan. For the glaze, melt butter in saucepan and stir in water and sugar. Boil 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in amaretto; set aside. Invert the cooled cake on serving plate. Prick top with fork and drizzle glaze over top of amaretto cake. Use brush or spoon to put extra dripping back on cake.

Note: The amaretto will cause steam. Be careful not to burn yourself!

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JayVass Vass

International pilot, daredevil skydiver, and genius businessman knows no boundaries

By Susan K. Lamb Tammy Johns Photography

Jay Vass and his copilot climb the stairs into the jet on a quiet Sunday afternoon at the Suwannee County Airport in Live Oak. Total confidence hangs in the breezy afternoon. Minutes later, the two leave the runway with a roar that would leave any country boy with a loud truck in awe.

Flying into a perfect sky, the jet makes a beautiful, full eastward turn and, within minutes, lands back home in Lake City.

The round trip cost? About $1,000 in jet fuel, Jay estimates. This is just the beginning of the story of this amazing North Florida genius, savvy businessman, pilot, and daredevil skydiver.

Fall 2019 | 83

Jay, business developer, CEO, entrepreneur, trusted pilot known worldwide, and owner of five airplanes and a helicopter, is a man with no fear and no fences. He George W. Bush, Jay Vass & Jeb Bush has flown this current jet the equivalent of around the world 30 times while visiting numerous countries. For him, a short trip like this one from Live Oak to Lake City is somewhat like riding your bike out to the mailbox and back. Jay calculated he has flown this jet one million miles. “I literally have flown this plane around the world during Christmas week one year and made 18 Atlantic Ocean crossings while participating as a pit crew member with Patrón Tequila’s endurance racing team,” he explains. Alas, this huge jet, owned by Ed Brown of Patrón Tequila, is for sale, but Jay already has a new Gulfstream G550 to fly.

Jay, having learned to fly while still in high school, started working as a flight instructor in Gainesville.

A charismatic guy with a keen observance of what is going on around him, Jay has a knack for storytelling. He has lived in Lake City since his early 20s when be began working in Live Oak. He has traveled the world piloting dignitaries for decades. During a recent interview, he talked about a long list of politicians, dignitaries, billionaires, and businessmen he has flown. Names such as Tim Tebow; the Bush family; Katherine Harris, former Florida Secretary of State and later congresswoman; Florida Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher; Charlie Crist during his successful run for governor of Florida; and countless more.

As the pilot, Jay was part of each team during these travels, attending every event his clients attended.

“I literally have flown this plane around the world during Christmas week one year.”

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Keaton Hall, Dede Vass, Leighton Pepper, Jay Vass, Erika, Gage & Jarrod Pepper Before Jay started flying dignitaries around the world, his story began as the only son of Captain Theodore J. “Ted” and Kamala Vass. “My mom and dad both flew airplanes. Mom was flying as early as 1947! Dad flew B17s at age 19 during his service to his country during WWII,” Jay explains. His dad, a well-known pilot who could fly before he graduated high school, met his beloved wife, who was from India, in college at the University of Southern California after the war. There, they wed just after graduation. “Mom was probably the only Indian woman flying an aircraft during this time. Three girls and me later, all of us flew, and 5 out of 6 of us had pilot licenses.”

Jay started flying at age 16 and now holds numerous FAA certifications to include airline transport pilot; flight instructor; parachute rigger; commercial helicopter, airframe and powerplant mechanic; and many more. Thus, the Vass children carried on the desire to fly, passed to them by their mom and dad. In the Vass family, flying an airplane was as much a part of growing up as was learning to walk.

Growing up in New Jersey, Jay attended Oregon State University as a freshman studying engineering. He also swam competitively, but due to NCAA rule changes and a budget deficit at Oregon State, he was recruited with two other fellow

swimmers to the University of Florida. Four years later, Jay finished with his collegiate swimming career but studied as an engineering student. Jay, having learned to fly while still in high school, started working as a flight instructor in Gainesville.

He was soon asked to fly an airplane in neighboring Lake City.

What the business got was a young man in his early 20s who was not only a pilot but a brilliant, talented man who didn’t know when to quit. Although hired as the pilot, it wasn’t long before Jay advanced to running the business.

After running a second Lake City business, in his late 20s, Jay’s desire to create and seek new ideas while having his hand in various challenges led him to Los Angeles.

There, he bought an established manufacturing business. After talking to Live Oak Chamber Director Edwin McCook, Jay loaded up six semi-trucks and moved the business to Live Oak. For the next 28 years, Jay owned and operated BRC Performance which made pistons and crankshafts for the racing industry. “If it wasn’t for Edwin, I wouldn’t have come to Live Oak,” Jay notes.

Fall 2019 | 85

Along the way through Jay’s piloting and business careers, he’s been known for what some consider his wild side… that would be his persona as a daredevil skydiver. “All those years I skydived nearly 4,000 dives, I only got hurt once,” Jay says matter-of-factly. That “once” was a humdinger. Jay was tired from working so much and had gone about 22 hours without sleep, but he agreed to jump that day anyway. As he came down at an airshow where he and a few others were putting on a skydiving show, Jay was carrying a 2,000-square-foot American flag, moving at about 45 miles per hour, when he hit the ground. Both legs were broken.

When the paramedics got to him, Jay already knew exactly what was wrong. “I went to Jacksonville by helicopter, had surgery, spent three days there, and went home. I had a hospital bed at my business (BRC) and was confined to a wheelchair,” he reveals.

But by the seventeenth day, Jay got a call from his friend, former state elected official Tom Gallagher, who wanted to take a trip with Jay as the pilot. Jay accepted the offer. “I didn’t do physical therapy after the accident, I just crawled around on the floor to work on equipment,” Jay says with a smile. It took him nine months to get back on his feet properly. But, 100 days after the two broken legs, Jay skydived yet again! The next few years were spent working as usual and recovering, but Jay says he had a plan.

“I knew it was only temporary, and I would get better,” he says.

Wearing his Patrón Tequila shirt and cap during this interview, Jay expresses gratitude for his profession as a pilot, which has allowed him to see the world and gain satisfaction in providing for his family while giving him and his family wonderful memories. Jay is the personal pilot for Ed Brown of Patrón Tequila, a man he describes as “one of the most gracious men you will ever meet.” Their long-term friendship and working relationship has been a joy for Jay and his family as Jay flies Ed anywhere he wants to go. “All my family has been invited to travel on the jet on one trip or another, courtesy of Ed,” Jay elaborates. “My wife, Dede, can hop on virtually any trip she chooses.”

Jay’s stepson, Keaton Hall, just graduated from Florida Gateway College in Lake City, recently finishing his private pilot’s license requirements. Keaton expresses that he, his mom, and Jay enjoyed a three-week tour of France, Italy, and Greece as a graduation gift when Patrón Tequila/ESM race team was

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Jay & Dede Vass competing at the 24-hour Le Mans race. That trip has left some wonderful lasting memories for Keaton and his family.

Jay’s stepdaughter, Erika Pepper of Live Oak, has also taken numerous trips along with husband Jarrod and their two small children, Leighton and Gage.

“All those years, I skydived nearly 4,000 times and got hurt once.”

Over the years in North Florida, Jay Vass has been involved in many civic events and projects. He’s working hard to ensure his future will be a happy time if and when he actually retires.

He could write a book, but he says it’s not going to happen anytime soon. Piloting? Of course—until there is not one ounce of energy and desire to fly left in his body!

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Fall 2019 | 87

Epiphany Catholic School Student Honors

Favorite Teacher

By Jeweliana Register Curtis

We all have a favorite teacher who causes us to look back fondly on our time in their class, whether it's because of their witty humor or amazing storytelling abilities. Itzel Romulo, a student at Epiphany Catholic School, is no different. With fond memories from the year, Itzel wrote a story about her favorite teacher, Mrs. Hrichena, and was recognized as the best story in the elementary school age group in the St. Augustine diocese magazine. Check out what Itzel wrote about her beloved teacher here!

• • • •

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Epiphany ool Catholic Sch Values

Pride Integrity Prayer Happiness

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• Academics • Nurture • Youth

Itzel Romuelo, pictured with her favorite teacher, Mrs. Renee Hrichema.

Itzel’s Story

Hi, my name is Itzel, and I am in the third grade. I go to Epiphany Catholic School.

I have a favorite teacher, and her name is Mrs. Hrichena. She is really nice to me as well as to new students. She has dirty blonde hair and wears glasses. My teacher helps me with whatever I need. I believe she is the best teacher in the world. I also think she has a good sense of humor and also is funny. She is as sweet as pie. My teacher also helps people in need or just everybody she sees everywhere and anywhere. She is nice, sweet and kind-hearted. When I am sad, she cheers me up with her jokes and her smiles. She will also help you if you need food or water. The main reason she is my favorite teacher is because she is always on time and greets us.

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BARD GYMNASTICS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

W

hile in her senior year of high school, Pat Arnold decided she was going to join the circus—but not just any show under the Big Top. She was going to become a member of the Florida State University Flying High Circus.

“I knew that was what I was going to do. I was going to be in that circus,” Pat reminisces.

Following the circus performance in Lake City, Pat, who was a lifelong roller-skater, was determined to be part of the university’s eyecatching skating act. Equipped with the natural ability to quickly master new tricks and routines, after auditioning, Pat was recruited in her freshman year at FSU.

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with other spectator-favorites, appeared on NBC’s Today show back in 1956. Besides getting to experience her 15 minutes of fame on television, it was through the circus that Pat would meet her husband, Jim, who participated in the show by rigging equipment and portraying a clown for the carnival-inspired spectacle—that is, when he wasn’t busy playing for the Seminoles.

I knew that was what I was going to do. I was going to be in that ciRCus

Approaching nearly a decade of performances during this time, the Flying High Circus garnered so much admiration that Pat’s act: Jet Action on Wheels, along

By Hayli Zuccola

After graduating, the newlyweds returned to Lake City to become educators, but it wasn’t long before Pat was ready to return to her acrobatic roots, co-founding Bard Gymnastics, which stands for Baton, Acrobatics, Rhythm and Drill, in 1969. Eventually, Pat became the sole owner and moved Bard toward a more gymnasticscentered business. Her daughter, Denise, became one of the studio’s first clients—practicing new techniques and routines choreographed by her mom at just five years old. As an adult, Denise Arnold Kirby followed in her mom’s circus-

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Fall 2019 | 91

bound footsteps and later started Tumble Bunnies, a traveling gymnastics venture geared toward local daycares.

At almost 83-years-old, Pat is still as spry as ever—even attempting a split every once in a while. However, after exceeding far past the typical retirement age, Denise slowly began taking hold of the reins at Bard.

“If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am,” Denise says of her mom.

The 2018–2019 class of Bard Gymnastics.

Today, Denise’s daughter, Eva, continues the family’s legacy—attending FSU and coaching young gymnasts at Bard, where she, too, spent her childhood—bringing the total to three generations who have had a hand in making Bard what it is today.

For 50 years, Bard Gymnastics has helped instill a sense of pride, determination, and strength among young athletes—giving them the courage to accomplish anything they set their minds to.

“I want the kids to build up their confidence that they can conquer anything, you know; not just with gymnastics, but in life,” Denise says.

Eva Kirby, Pat Arnold, and Denise Arnold Kirby represent the three generations who’ve had a hand in making Bard what it is today.

While it’s a rarity to find a small-town organization that’s had the gumption to thrive past one decade, let alone five, earning this achievement is a testament to the importance Bard has had within the community and among the individuals who’ve helped make it successful from the dedicated coaches and supporters to the students themselves—some of whom have earned national titles for their gymnastic abilities.

“I feel blessed. I feel really blessed and I’m glad I had a part of it and I’m glad that my daughter and granddaughter had a part of it and that it’s still going. I hope it will keep on keeping up,” Pat says.

(Left) Taytum Gaskins, Abigail Koger, and Brandi Oliver won first place in vault at the 2019 Amateur Athletic Union Nationals. Taytum also won first place on beams.

(Right) Hanging in Bard’s studio are photos of its co-founder Pat Arnold during her time in the FSU Flying High Circus.

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Bard’s secret to reaching the 50-year mark is one of a kind, but one thing’s for sure: it all began with a trip to the circus.

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Entertaining on a Budget

By Joy Coleman Delaine Spradley Photography

There’s no doubt about it, crisp fall weather is perfect for entertaining—especially if you have a deck, patio, balcony, or any area that’s just crying out for festive merrymaking. However, the price of throwing a dinner party can add up. If you’re not smart about how you spend, you’ll find yourself shelling out for plasticware, decorations, appetizers, and a full meal spread, but there’s no reason to let money stand in the way of you and memorable evenings spent with your loved ones. These tips will help make your next dinner party a night to remember, while barely making a dent in your pocketbook!

SERVE ON YOUR EXISTING COOKWARE Plastic and paper are nice if you want to avoid extra dishes, but it adds an unnecessary expense to your dinner party budget.

Your own dishware will be just fine. Other creative ideas for serving vessels? Slate or ceramic tiles, if you have some on hand, are an inventive spot for hors d’oeuvres that brings on the family-style rustic ambience like nothing else!

KEEP THE GUEST LIST INTIMATE This isn’t just practical for your budget; it’s also recommended for smooth dinner party hosting. Experienced hosts say you should keep the guest list short if you want a problem-free, relaxed gathering, so cut it off at about six to eight names at most. A manageable number of guests means conversation

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can flow smoothly, and it guarantees that everyone can fit comfortably at the table.

DRESS UP INEXPENSIVE INGREDIENTS FOR APPETIZERS Forget expensive cheeses. A little fixed-up baked feta with honey has class to spare and fulfills the cheese need without breaking your budget. For an elegant DIY solution to crackers, make your own appetizer base. Try cutting up a $2 baguette or loaf of French bread and toast it with some butter. Serve it with a topping of various flavors like cream cheese and berries, or load it with a savory tomato-garlic spread.

A wooden cutting board makes an appealing tray for an affordable spread of cooked cold meat, including ham, sausage, and pâté. Rub a little cooking oil into the wood to hide wearand-tear so it shines like new and displays your food in style.

USE WHAT YOU HAVE IN THE FRIDGE If you have a bunch of groceries in the pantry, here’s your chance to get rid of all those extra cans of garbanzo beans!

Online apps like Allrecipes and Supercook help you locate entrees and appetizers that will make your existing ingredients sing. Plus, that means less food waste coming out of your kitchen.

SERVE SEASONAL FOODS Fruits and veggies that are in-season are always cheaper because they’re grown locally and cost less to produce. Fringe benefit: They’re fresher and tastier, too. Save even more by buying produce whole, instead of pre-rinsed, peeled and packaged.

HOST A POTLUCK Why produce an entire menu when each guest can shine by bringing their own prized recipe? People are happy to be invited to someone’s house for dinner and most people ask what they can bring. Take them up on it!

Not into the potluck idea for the whole meal? You can provide the main dish, but there’s nothing wrong with assigning guests one item, whether it’s a dip and chips, a dessert or a bottle of wine. this fun by asking them to bring the recipe for what • Make they’ve prepared, that way they can share and show it off

to the other guests. This is a great way to take some of the burden off of you.

one-pot dishes: You’ll get more mileage out of your • Serve ingredients with dishes like lasagna or chili, and they’ll present less work for you as well.

guests with a family-style meal to welcome them to • Greet your home. Some fantastic family-style meals include pasta, braised meat, tamales, hearty soups, and fresh seasonal salads. By making items in bulk, you won’t have to worry about preparing many small dishes in advance and you definitely won’t worry about running out of food.

SAVE TIME AND CHOOSE CONVENIENCE

have extra money, chances are you don’t have • Ifa lotyouofdon’t free time, either. Unfortunately, often choosing convenience means blowing your budget. Luckily, there are a couple of ways to get around this.

pulled rotisserie chicken breast served with an inexpensive • Aelevated barbeque sauce and a few rolls makes for a buffetstyle main course in seconds.

the most expensive ingredient on a menu is the meat.

• Usually Look no further than your slow cooker which can transform tough, inexpensive cuts of meat like chuck, brisket or pork shoulder to meltingly tender ones.

you can, there are many great meatless recipes that will • Ifmake for a wonderful centerpiece dish and save some

money. Think vegetable and chickpea curry, veggie lasagna, or baked vegetable risotto, all of which can be made in large quantities.

is an elegant, simple meal choice. Pick a cut that • Steak you can display on a cutting board and let people serve

themselves. They actually take smaller portions that way!

serve desserts: Have a late-night gathering so you can • Orservejustdessert and coffee only instead of a full dinner.

SAVORY SAUSAGE-STUFFED

ACORN SQUASH

Photo and recipe courtesy of tasteofhome.com

INGREDIENTS (serves 4) • me ium acorn squash • 1 poun spicy pork sausa e • 1 cup choppe onion • 1 cup fresh spinach nely choppe • 1 cup rie cranberries • 1 1 cups soft brea crumbs • 1 lar e e • tablespoons milk

AMENITIES AT THE PARTY

Looking for a recipe you can make in 30 minutes or less? These sausage-stuffed acorn squash filling andparty delicious.

Begin Check by halving your squash Looking fordelicacies ways toareup your game? out these tips for creating a host-worthy homeinand crafting the lengthwise, discarding the seeds. Place squash a microwave-safe dish, cut side perfect yourongathering. down, andambiance microwave, for covered, high until tender (about 10 to 15 minutes). While you are waiting, cook and crumble the sausage and onion in a large skillet over PREPARE THE RESTROOM medium heat (about 5 to 7 minutes) You’re spending time prepping in the kitchen and may overlook and drain.room Remove your dish from the heat, stir in spinach, bread crumbs, another where your guests willthen be spending some time: the and cranberries.Make In a small bowl, eggs in andspots milk, you then can’t add thesee mixture restroom. sure it’s whisk clean,together especially right the bat: theuntil toilet seat, inRemove the tub andfrom underneath to theoff sausage skilletunder and toss combined. squash the microwave the forthe example.

Keep itMicrowave, stocked with ample andsink fill with sausage mixture. covered, for 2hand to 3 soap and aminutes few extra handwarm. towels. Adding a lit candle is nice also. and serve

ADJUST THE TEMPERATURE

PUMPKIN KIN BISQUE

Bear in mind that the more guests attend - especially in close quarters - the warmer your space will get. Cut corners by WITH SMOKED GOUDA lowering the thermostat and letting body heat do its thing.

Recipe courtesy of tasteofhome.com

CLEAN OUT(serves THE CLOSET INGREDIENTS NGREDIENTS 10)

Some people don’t to toss their coats and bags on the bed, • bacon stripslikechoppe so make ample space in the closet instead. Your guests will • 1 me ium onion choppe appreciate having a place to store their belongings.

• arlic clo es mince FREEZE ICE INbroth ADVANCE • cups chicken Buying ice in bulk gets so freeze up a whole bunch - more • 1 can soli -packecostly, pumpkin than you think you’ll need in the days leading up to your party • 1 teaspoon salt instead.

Use your refrigerator’s ice maker to make ice ahead of • 1 teaspoon roun nutme time, filling a separate ice bucket over a couple of days to ensure • 1 8 teaspoon pepper that you have enough for all of your guests. If you don’t have an 1 cup hea whippin cream ice• maker, use icey trays and start several days in advance.

• 1 cup ou a cheese shre e HAVE STAIN REMOVAL • tablespoons mince freshTOOLS parsley ON HAND Spills happen, so be prepared and have your favorite stain(forwill garnish) removal supplies ready. Ask guests to let you know as soon as a In stain happens.

It’sbacon better take time out desired to soakcrispiness up thatis red a dutch oven, cook overtomedium heat until wine spill than it is to invest in a new living room rug on. achieved. Remove the meat and place on a paper towel, reserving 1later tablespoon of drippings. Saute onions inENTERTAINMENT drippings until tender, then add garlic and cook for PROVIDE EASY Set up a table withStir easy tobroth, grab pumpkin, games such as cards, 1 additional minute. in the nutmeg, salt dominos, and pepper and small boardtogames.

Allowtheguests to grab, go and enjoy andother bring the concoction a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, each otherfor with these items.

It is a fun and frugal way to keep the uncovered 10 minutes.

After allowing everyone mixture toorganized cool slightly,and placeoccupied! it in the blender and process until smooth.

MUSIC MATTERS Return mixture to therotates pan, between Billie Holiday and Rhye radio For music, Spotify adding in creamwell. thenDon’t stirringforget the music playlist because that tend to work sets the tone your evening — and it’s free! Create a festive vibe in cheese untilofit melts. byPlace downloading a mix to your phone or having Alexa play your in individual serving favorite playlist. bowls and garnish with parsley, bacon, and a sprinkle of extra cheese.

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