Tallahassee Magazine - January/Feburary 2014

INSIDE: DEBUT ISSUE OF Northwest Florida WeddingS

Starry Nights For a Winter Wonderland, Look to the Skies

Your Online Life After Death Behind the Curtains at Ruby Diamond

Florida Slavery in the 21st Century Art Smith’s Healthy Take on Southern Comfort Food

APRIL 1ST IS MY REMISSION DAY.

Three years ago, I had just completed my annual mammogram and needed more tests. My suspicions were true; I had breast cancer. My family and friends gave me hope when I needed it most. The Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center helped turn that hope into a reality through surgery, weeks of radiation therapy, and even a few laughs. Now, I am overjoyed to be in remission.

I can focus on the activities I love, like cruising the back roads with my husband.

GAIL McDONALD

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»contents VOLUME 37, number 1

Scott Holstein

features

90 Backstage Pass

98 Modern Slavery

A photographic tour of what happens at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall in the hours before Clint Black’s Seven Days of Opening Nights performance.

It’s not a thing of the past or only found in unenlightened faraway places — the scourge of modern-day slavery is happening in Northwest Florida.

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»contents VOLUME 37, number 1

departments

78

life

24 SNAPSHOT A community of geeky creativity.

style

58 TUTU TRENDS Resolve to

look great while working out.

191 culture

191 SPOTLIGHT The cultural event of the year is here.

257 food

242 FLAVOR A celebrity chef returns to his roots.

27 CHAT He’s bullish on

61 A BETTER YOU Argan oil’s

198 ON THE TOWN Grant

250 PERSONALITY The genesis

29 DECONSTRUCTION

63 MIND AND BODY The pros

202 CULTURE Indian murals

257 ON THE MENU Soup for

67 DÉCOR Hints for an

212 CALENDAR Your best bets

259 ON YOUR TABLE It’s

69 HABITAT When to fix, and

225 SOCIAL STUDIES Seen

biotech.

On Valentine’s Day, let the flowers say it for you.

31 CLICK Your online life after death.

35 HERE TO HELP After

tragedy, a mother lobbies for a fix to the system.

39 THE NUMERATOR

The Mag Lab puts up some big numbers.

41 PARENTHOOD

hair repair revolution.

and cons of e-cigarettes. organized home office.

when it’s best to replace.

75 MS. GROW-IT-ALL Plant pals belong together.

78 GETAWAY Health and

Peeples found his voice at 50. have stories to tell.

for winter fun.

— and photographed — around town.

42 THE GREAT OUTDOORS ’Tis the perfect season for stargazing.

a winter warm-up.

not just for lunch boxes anymore.

261 DINING GUIDE Best

of winners are “stars” of the guide.

235 THE BUZZ “Bee” there or be square.

in every issue

gangsters at Arkansas’ Hot Springs.

The challenges of long-distance parenting.

of a successful caterer.

16 Publisher’s Letter 18 Editor’s Letter 20 Contributors 22 Feedback 266 The Last Word

29

51 LOOKING BACK The

strange tale of freedman George Proctor.

57 AGENDA Who’s doing what

on the local business scene.

8 January–February 2014

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On the Cover

Local photographer Mark Wallheiser captures the beauty of the Milky Way in the night sky from a location in Shell Point.

Scott Holstein (29, 35, 257), Dero Sanford (78), Photos courtesy Seven Days of opening nights (192)

35

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»contents VOLUME 37, number 1

special sections

82 Deal Estate

Variety — in housing and inhabitants — is the spice of our featured neighborhood, SouthWood.

Terri Smith

107 Northwest Florida Weddings Whether you’re thinking of saying “I do” in the city, in the country or on the coast, we have 84 pages of beautiful photos to provide inspiration in this inaugural issue of the newest publication from Rowland Publishing.

Top Salons Meet the crews from the 13 salons competing during

207

Tallahassee Magazine’s Top Salon event Feb. 22.

LET’S FIND A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO GET LOST

219 TMH Foundation Newsletter FSU sorority sees red — and lots of it — to support

women’s heart health.

next issue

from denim to lace and everything in between…

Springtime Tallahassee Top Singles Nominations

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10 January–February 2014

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»all access ONLINE

tallahasseemagazine.com EXTRA CONTENT ONLINE ONLY

Test-Drive Our New Mobile-Ready Website!

No matter where your adventures take you, Tallahassee Magazine is at your fingertips. Our new website is designed with a revolutionary interface that automatically adapts our pictures and stories to be easily viewable on any size mobile device — phone, tablet or laptop. So, say goodbye to pinching and zooming, and say hello to the new tallahasseemagazine.com.

Video! » Making Awesome See the 3D printer in

action at this “making space” near Tallahassee Community College.

» Clint Black — Behind the Scenes

at Ruby Diamond Photographer Scott Holstein spent the day shooting the behindthe-scenes activity that went on before Black’s concert at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. Visit the site to see even more photos.

» Bookmark our new blog to keep up with our beautiful Capital City through insightful stories and special news and information that will surely put you “in-the-know.” » Search through Best of winners from the past seven years.

Join the Club!

Text TMAG to 90947. Or visit tallahasseemagazine.com and look for the Top of the Town logo to sign up for special promotions, events and exclusive offers. (Text STOP to opt out.)

12 January–February 2014

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Photos by Scott Holstein (Ruby Diamond) and Carlin Trammel (Making Awesome)

Now online …

Thousands of gowns to choose from.

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S H O P D R E A M G O W N S .C O M tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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tallahasseemagazine

Who’s your Valentine?

President/Publisher

Brian E. Rowland EDITORIAL Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst

Friday, February 14

Editor Rosanne Dunkelberger Staff Writer Jason Dehart

SALES AND MARKETING Marketing and Sales Manager Mckenzie Burleigh

Editorial Coordinator chay D. baxley

Director of New Business Daniel Parisi

Contributing Writers Lazaro Aleman Laura Bradley Gibby Conrad Domonique Davis Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite Jack Macaleavy John Mooshie Audrey Post Florence Snyder Sandra Starr Zandra Wolfgram

Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre

Editorial Interns Lauren Gillespie Alejandra Nirenberg

850-385-7363 blossomsowers.com 1200 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee (located in Midtown)

Fashion and Lifestyle Editors calynne hill and terra palmer tutudivine.com

Account Executives Drew Gregg westling Tim Hughes Lori Magee Linda Powell Paula Sconiers Chuck Simpson Special Projects and Events Special Projects and Events Coordinator lynda belcher OPERATIONS Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease

Prepress Specialist MElinda lanigan

Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds Tabby Hamilton

CREATIVE Creative Director Lawrence Davidson

Receptionists Tristin Kroening Jazmeen Sule

Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts

WEB Social Media/ Systems Management Specialist carlin trammel

Senior Graphic Designer Jennifer Ekrut Graphic Designers LIZZIE MOORE Shruti Shah

New Year, New You...

Contributing Photographers Tammy Binkley Shannon Griffin Dero Sanford Mark Wallheiser

Advertising Designers Jillian Fry Monica Perez Production Manager/ Network Administrator Daniel Vitter

SUBSCRIPTIONS One Year (6 issues) is $30 Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to Tallahasseemagazine.Com Single copies are $3.95 purchase at Barnes & Noble, Costco, Books-A-Million and at our Miccosukee Road office

Staff Photographer Scott Holstein

PRESENTING SPONSOR: RUSSELL B. RAINEY, D.M.D.

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Tallahassee Magazine is published bimonthly by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. 850/878-0554. Tallahassee Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. Tallahassee Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright January 2014 Tallahassee Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Partners of Visit Tallahassee and Member, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and Florida Magazine Association.

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»from the publisher

In an average month I’m asked several times if I feel printed magazines are fading away … or are dead and don’t have the sense to lay down. Based on very firsthand experience, print magazine publishing in Northwest Florida is doing just fine. I know there is a good flow of blood coursing through our veins — I also know that five to seven years ago we consciously made the decision to evolve and broaden the base of services to complement the emergence of new technology available to every business in today’s rapidly changing world. And we have consciously developed a relationship with a younger professional demographic.

Let me share some facts about a global company that didn’t see or recognize the writing on the wall and chose not to evolve and make some fundamental changes in its business — and today is scrambling to stay alive.

BlackBerry — the gold standard at one time for mobile email combined with cellular communications — recently slashed its workforce by 40 percent, stopped selling its products to the consumer market and has begun a desperate search for an investor to purchase its assets. The bottom line: Apple Inc. and Samsung Electronics have eaten up their market share, leaving BlackBerry in a very difficult situation.

I know many BlackBerry diehard disciples who have resisted moving to smartphones, remaining loyal to the hard keyboard. Today, they’re left seeking legacy models in hopes of delaying the inevitable switch to the touch-screen smartphone.

At one time BlackBerry owned 50 percent of the phone market that handled email; currently its market share has fallen below 3 percent. At its peak, 12,700 people were part of the $80 billion organization. Today, company executives are looking to just get their assets sold.

There is a very strong message and lessons to learn from seeing this business fall from top to bottom: Never be complacent with where you are today. Always look for and be aware of the trends and an ever-changing marketplace. Be committed to constantly adjusting your business plan to meet your customers’ needs and demands. Continue to learn more about the industry you are in through B-to-B trade publications and industry conventions where “what’s on the horizon” is being addressed all the time.

So many factors contribute to the demise of a business — and not being willing to make change is at the top of that list.

On another note, a Day of Dialogue For Women–About Women–By Women will be presented by the Tallahassee Community College Workforce Development Leadership Institute in February. This initial gathering of 80 to 100 women from a cross section of the community will explore the characteristics, qualities and values that allow women to reach their highest potential in their personal and professional lives.

There will also be a keynote address by Nancy M. Carter, Ph.D., Catalyst Inc.; a review of women and organizations that have demonstrated resilience in difficult times; and break-out groups to examine individual stories and priorities. An initial compilation of this information will help to develop a new vision for women’s programs and services at TCC. Please contact the TCC Center for Workforce Development office for more information, (850) 201-6200.

Brian Rowland, Publisher browland@rowlandpublishing.com

16 January–February 2014

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Scott Holstein

Evolve with the Times … or Become Extinct

Š2013 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times.

Born to compete. Even with ourselves.

The form varies. But the racing bloodlines, the undying dedication to pure sports car performance, the marriage of power and efficiency embodied in the Porsche principles, do not. And that truth is revealed in that moment you turn the key. Discover it for yourself with a test drive. Porsche. There is no substitute.

Experience every form of Porsche performance.

Contact Michael Ludes for your private demonstration. mludes@crowncars.com or (850) 205-1710

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Porsche recommends tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»from the editor

Hear the Peanut.

Be the Peanut.

kay meyer

Usually, I’m bad about remembering jokes, but there are a few — usually pretty corny — that stick with me.

Here’s one of my favorites: A guy is sitting at a bar by himself when, all of a sudden, he starts hearing whispers saying things like, “Wow, you’re really handsome.” “What’s that cologne you’re wearing? It smells great.” “You’re the best salesman ever.”

He’s a bit unnerved, so he calls over the bartender to ask if he’s hearing the commentary too. The barkeep points to a bowl and answers: “Oh, those are the peanuts.

They’re complimentary.”

I have unearthed this chestnut because I think it ties in pretty well with one of the season’s perennial rituals: the New Year’s Resolution. Or, should I say, the inevitable breaking of the New Year Resolution and its attendant waves of defeat, failure and self-loathing.

So this year, my resolution was not to make any resolutions. Heaven knows, the ways I could improve myself are legion, but I really don’t need a written list to remind me of my failings. I pretty much flagellate myself daily about losing my temper or eating the wrong things. And if I am remiss, there are plenty of people out in the world ready to slap me on the wrist for my sins, big and small.

But many, many times there are compliments I almost immediately discount. About my new hair color (“All praise goes to my hairstylist, Heba”) or my house (“Yes, but that busted up driveway is awful”) and especially my work (“We won that contest, but we were in the category for small magazines …”).

In 2014, I will listen to any compliment sent my way. I will stop, take it in, accept it in the spirit it was given and choose one or more from this collection of possible responses: Thank you. That means a lot to me. You’ve made my day. It’s so kind of you to say so.

I value your opinion.

And I’m going to take it a step further. I will, in essence, be the peanut. If I see something that strikes me in a positive way, I will once again stop, but this time it’ll be my turn to make the compliment, whether it’s a small thing (“Love that necklace”) or large (“You are one of the most creative people I have ever met”).

And so, Tallahassee Magazine readers, advertisers and coworkers, thank you. It means the world to me that, for the past nine years, I have been the face and voice of this publication and that so many of you enable me to use my talents to help shape a beautiful and lasting vision of our hometown.

I hope the New Year is good to you. But more than that, I hope you take the time to be good to yourself.

Rosanne Dunkelberger rdunkelberger@rowlandpublishing.com

18 January–February 2014

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editor’s pick Share the Love Ever had a hankering to be an ambassador?

The folks at the Leon County Division of Tourism Development — aka Visit Tallahassee — want to recruit you to spread the good word about our hometown via its recently unveiled #IHeartTally marketing campaign.

The plan is to enlist those of us who were born, live, visit, work, go to school and play here to write about, video or photograph the things that make Tallahassee great — then encourage others to come for a visit by sharing them via their favorite social media. Just use the IHeartTally hashtag when you’re posting a reminisce on Facebook about a drive down a canopy road or a Vine video of the Seminole chop during a home game at Doak Campbell.

Items tagged with #IHeartTally will appear on the Visit Tallahassee Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages and could be used as featured content on the visittallahasse.com website.

While they were at it, the Visit Tallahassee folks also launched the trailahassee.com website, a one-stop resource for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the area’s 11 biking, hiking, running, paddling and equestrian trails. Users can virtually “explore” the local trails and choose a route based on activity, type of surface and skill level.

Make a statement WITH A STACK

Visit one of these authorized retailers for more inspiration: TREND SPOTTING: BANGLE STACKS

Debbie’s Jewels

PANDORA Store

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Governor’s Square Mall Tallahassee, FL 32301

14004 US Hwy. 19 South; #117 Thomasville, GA 31757

Padgett’s Jewelry

The Gem Collection

Blue Abaco

21 E. Jefferson Street Quincy, FL 32351

3501 Thomasville Road Tallahassee, FL 32309

1690 Raymond Diehl Road Tallahassee, FL 32308

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»contributors Martha J. LaGuardiaKotite, writer

LaGuardia-Kotite is a commander in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve and has served with distinction, earning many personal awards during her 22 years of duty. She is a spokesperson for the Coast Guard, journalist and author, writing books that celebrate inspiring stories of military veterans. She lives on Florida’s Emerald Coast with her husband and two sons.

▪ In this issue, LaGuardia-Kotite delves deep into the subject of human trafficking throughout the world, nation — even in the Panhandle of Florida — and what local groups and individuals are doing to solve the problem.

Sandra Starr, writer

Starr is the Senior Researcher of the Department of History and Culture at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. A Floridian since 1948, she attended both Florida State University and the University of Florida. She was also a staff member of Rowland Publishing from 1990–1996.

“Indians! in the Post Office” is a project she initiated in 2009 to bring the American Indian side of the story to New Deal-era murals that depict them. She is working in collaboration with the National Postal Museum and the United States Postal Service in this effort.

▪ In this issue, Starr draws upon her research to write about Tallahassee’s Indian post office murals.

Gillespie is a senior at Florida State University where she studies English and International Affairs. When she’s not studying, she enjoys making people laugh, dancing, writing and exploring the city beyond the confines of campus. She hopes to attend law school and one day change the world for the better.

▪ In this issue, Gillespie shows us ways to make “gourmet” versions of that lunchbox favorite — a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Want to get published? If you’re a consumer and business writer and want get published, go to rowlandpublishing.com/jobs/ to submit your resume and work samples.

20 January–February 2014

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Photos by Scott Holstein (Kotite, Gillespie) and Courtesy Sandra Starr

Lauren Gillespie, writer

NO-CLOSING-COST BUSINESS MORTGAGE Give your number cruncher something to smile about.

AS LOW AS

1

AT

SUCCESS!

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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» from our readers

feedback

We want to hear from you.

Thanks From a Small, Local Business Just a note to thank you and your staff so much for the article spotlighting The Cobbler’s Shop, LLC in the fall issue (“The Sole of a Business,” September/October) of Tallahassee Magazine.

This exposure helps a local small business so much!

Bill Rayboun

Love is in the air!

Celebrate with a new smile.

Dr. Ronald Cummings Orthodontics 1378 Timberlane Road | 850.893.5018

Call for a complimentary consultation

EXPERIENCE THE EXCITEMENT

Kudos for November/December Issue Love the article! (Florida’s Attic). Jason did a great job on the story, and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Scott. All that topped off with a great story on Grayal (2nd Acts).

Fantastic issue!

Marie Prentice

Lessons for Leaders I wanted to say thank you for the great letter in Tallahassee Magazine about Leadercast. I have attended the past couple of years and am fortunate to have done so with the Executive Experience pass both times. I attribute my time at Leadercast and the ensuing reading of speakers’ books as crucial to my development, and those leaders in my office who were able to attend have also made similar claims.

I hope many others choose to take advantage of it as a result of your letter!

Justin Dunning Manager, CH Robinson I opened up the most recent copy of Tallahassee Magazine this morning and read your write-up of the Chick-fil-A Leadership program. I was blown away by my experience at the event. We actually invited clients to join us and that was a great experience. They appreciated the fact that we invested in our customers as well as our staff.

I thought from an information standpoint it was by far the best training session that I’ve attended.

On a side note, I enjoy reading your magazine. It’s very well written, and the stories are great for the local community.

Brian Schoen Supervisor, CH Robinson

March 6-9

KLAPP-PHIPPS PARK, TALLAHASSEE LEARN MORE AT RHHT.ORG 22 January–February 2014

tallahasseeMagazine.com

Correction An article on craft beers in the November/ December issue incorrectly identified a Tallahassee brewing company. It should have been Proof Brewing Company.

Have a thought? Write to us at editor@tallahasseemagazine.com, facebook.com/tallahassee or through twitter @tallahasseemag.

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life

24 January–February 2014

tallahasseeMagazine.com

People » places » info

CHAT / DECONSTRUCTION CLICK / HERE TO HELP / HUMOR GREAT OUTDOORS / THE NUMERATOR PARENTHOOD / LOOKING BACK / AGENDA

Snapshot Making Awesome

Friends often split the cost of moderately expensive items. True friends split the cost of a 3D printer — at least that’s what the founders of Making Awesome did. Making Awesome is Tallahassee’s new “maker space,” a collection of individuals who share knowledge, material and talent to conceive and create projects.

“God, I’d love to have one of those [3D printer],” reflected founder David Brightbill on the memory that would shortly push him to create a social group for intellectuals to expand their knowledge and passion for experimenting.

He called a Meet-Up, and together, strangers created the basic foundation of what is now Making Awesome.

This crew of remarkable — and dare we say nerdy — individuals would give the guys of the Big Bang Theory a run for their money. For one, there are more people in the group, and secondly, the youngest members are local high school students who have presented projects to NASA, winning an honorable mention for our comparably small city competing against 70 others worldwide.

The braniacs of Making Awesome invite the public to free weekly open house events Wednesdays at 6 p.m. The warehouse at 119 Century Park Dr. (just behind the TCC campus) is a cavernous space filled with computers and materials as well as a friendly crew of people eager to help and spread their knowledge. If you have ever had a project idea with no resources to get it started, the Makers will extend a hand, actually several, all for no charge.

To learn more, visit their webpage at makingawesome. org or their Making Awesome Facebook page.

A ‘Maker’ designs a project for the 3D printer. Some of the widgets (right) created at Making Awesome.

Shannon Griffin

// Alejandria Nirenberg

See the 3D printer in action at tallahasseemagazine.com!

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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different View on banking.

Your interests are our priority.

FFirst Fi rsst Florida FFllor lor o id da Credit Cred Cred Cr dit it Union Union nii n is member owned. Not having stockholders means your interests come first. You and your family are our top priority.

This essential distinction fuels a responsible and caring environment that goes beyond banking to enriching people every day®.

If you’re interested in a safe, innovative, engaging, and a more cost-effective banking experience, make the switch to First Florida – your neighborhood credit union.

Tallahassee Locations: • 1661 Raymond Diehl Road (850) 922-7855 • 2521 S. Blair Stone Road (850) 414-7290 • 2928 Apalachee Parkway (850) 488-2880

Stay connected with us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/firstfloridacreditunion Stay connected with us on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/firstfloridacu

www.firstflorida.org

26 January–February tallahasseeMagazine.com Everyone who lives 2014 or works in Leon, Jefferson, Gadsden, Madison, or Wakulla County can join.* *A Savings/Share Account with a minimum balance of $5.00 is required for membership.

»life Chat

Seeing the Big Picture Business Savvy Helps Make Steven Reznik Tops in Biotech Stocks Scott Holstein

By John Mooshie Investment Consultant Steven Reznik may not be a household name in Tallahassee, but he certainly carries celebrity status in cancer treatment circles and with the Florida Gators and strength in developing drugs to Napa Valley elite. counteract and treat a number of While Financial AdviReznik is the top Raymond sor Steven Reznik has specific cancers. But when asked James financial services advisor in made his mark as about promoting their successes Florida. He’s also part of the inner an expert in biotech to the worldwide medical comfor enjoycircle at the University of Florida. stocks, munity, they answered that the ment, he also delves As a wine hobbyist, he’s an author- deep into the subject ‘data speaks for itself,’” Reznik ity on California wineries. remembers. “For years I asked of California wines.

His investment strategy, resultthem to make changes that ing in being a successful “growth would enhance their stock value and income” manager, is to thoroughly and emphatically suggested they needed to understand key companies within the biotell the world about their successes and how tech industry. A prime example of how he they would save lives and improve the quality of life.” tackles an investment is his involvement He even recommended the company oust with Celgene, a $50 billion pharmaceutical its CFO. And Reznik now interacts regucompany traded publicly on the NASDAQ. larly with Jackie Fouse, Celgene’s new chief “Celgene develops AIDS and cancer drugs, and those two issues won’t take time financial officer. off for anything, especially a recession,” he “Steven sees the long-term potential of says. Impressed, he began to learn more companies,” says Fouse. “(He) anchors his about the company’s investment potential, analysis in fundamentals and the big picalways remembering that it’s even more ture, digs deep enough into the details to important to know the management team. balance risk/reward and understands how At first, however, the Celgene managethe company produces its results in both the short and long term. He is patient, ment team wasn’t too friendly. isn’t just looking for the latest ‘cool’ short“At one of the stockholder meetings, they were presenting data to show the company’s term trade.” n

Four Things to know about Steven Reznik

1

The Beginning Being a pre-med major early on in college served as a foundation for health-related work, but Reznik’s interest in the business world blossomed from watching ticker tapes of the stock market. By eventually marrying those two fields, his career path was launched.

2

Work A Raymond James national Top 10 producer, Reznik is a member of the Chairman’s Council and the only advisor in Tallahassee to make Baron’s List of Top 1,000 Advisors.

3

Wine In order to counter his highpressure profession, Reznik has found relaxation as a wine connoisseur. His specially designed wine cellar houses more than 1,500 bottles, primarily merlots and cabernets.

4

Gator Love Having attended the University of Florida, Reznik’s loyalty and support for the university endures. He endowed a football scholarship in honor of his parents, maintains a stadium skybox where he hosts a wounded warrior at each home game and contributes to a number of academic programs.

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»life Deconstruction

This Bud’s for You!

When Cupid comes calling, the language of love might be best communicated through floriography — a Victorian-era means of communication in which flowers and floral arrangements were used to send coded messages, giving eloquence to tongue-tied lovers to express feelings which otherwise could not or dare not be spoken aloud. With Valentine’s Day ranking as the busiest holiday of the year for florists, there is a lot of “flower talk” going on in February. And though spouses make up 46 percent of flower recipients, according to the Society of American Florists there are plenty of other relationships in your life you may like to honor with a bouquet, vase or bud. This Valentine’s Day, if you wonder which bud is for whom, Lisa Metcalf of Blossoms Flowers offers these flower-giving tips to keep your relationships in the pink. // Zandra Wolfgram and Lauren Gillespie Daisies Don’t forget those who are casually dating — they expect something for Valentine’s, too! Lighthearted daisies are cheerful, flirtatious and happy. A daisy always makes you smile and feel tingly inside. A man that has knowledge of flowers and is comfortable purchasing flowers during the dating stage shows that he is confident, secure and happy with himself. These characteristics are sexy.

Red Roses As the ultimate expression of love during Valentine’s for someone in a long-term relationship, you never go wrong sending romantic red roses to your fiancé or wife. The more roses the better! Red roses are the eternal symbol of love, passion and romance.

A dozen red roses is a perfect way to say “I love you.”

An even larger quantity of red roses convey the depth of your feelings for that person who holds your heart.

Roses definitely send a message of lasting love.

Tulips Mothers

Photo by scott holstein, flowers provided by blossoms flowers

also appreciate an expression of love during Valentine’s.

Although sending flowers to Mom is not meant to be romantic, it’s a great way to let your mother know that she is loved and appreciated. Tulips are perfect for this type of affection. These flowers are a declaration of love and expression of growing in life. Tulips are phototropic and will continue to grow toward the light even after they are cut.

Sunflowers A simple golden sunflower is luminous and perfect for adoration since sunflowers warm the heart. Flowers have “Flower Power,” and a small bundle of colorful fresh flowers can achieve Valentine’s kudos, while not screaming commitment or obligation. Dating and flowers are inseparable for budding romance.

Lilies Lilies signify beauty, tenderness and understanding; all qualities of a meaningful relationship.

For a family member or a good friend, lilies are the perfect way to express your admiration and affection. Lilies are sometimes set in arrangements, but this flower is simply elegant on its own.

Caring for Fresh Flowers

Cut ½ to 1 inch off stems. Place stems in warm water right away. Flower food is always good; your order should come with a packet.

A very small splash of bleach kills bacteria and keeps flowers fresh. Change the water in your vase daily. Don’t keep flowers in a sunny window, and keep flowers away from heat vents.

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LIVE, WORK, PLAY

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30 January–February 2014

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»life Click

Your Online Afterlife What Happens to Digital Assets When You’re Gone?

Keeping online account information protected is a must in a technological era where personal and confidential information can be easily accessed virtually. However, you can’t take those eight-character, clever passwords with you when you go.

Estate planning can be a difficult task, especially when determining what is actually considered an asset. In today’s cyber-oriented society, online or digital assets may be just as important to a person’s estate as a stock portfolio or homestead.

Digital assets include social media accounts, digital photos, email and online banking accounts and records. Many online companies have been known to honor contracts with users — even after death. They will not release account information to a deceased person’s friends or family in an effort to maintain the terms and agreements established when the account was created.

Automatic bill pay, for example, can theoretically keep tapping your bank account long after you’re gone or, at least, until your money is.

“It’s important to make sure your online bank and shopping accounts, even your social media, can be closed out, or that your loved ones are authorized to access them,” said Hillel Presser, author of “Financial Self-Defense.” “You may ask, ‘Why would I care if I’m gone?’ I can tell you from experience: Because it can create real headaches, and more heartache, for your family.”

According to Terrance Dariotis, a Tallahasseebased wills, trusts and estate attorney, some online accounts, such as bank accounts and investment accounts, are treated as probate assets. To determine the rightful heirs to these assets, the deceased person’s estate will be subject to a probate court proceeding.

“If it is an online bank account or online investment account, that account would most likely become a probate asset unless the account was a joint account or allowed a ‘pay on death’ beneficiary,” Dariotis explained.

He added that though it is possible for the state to be given access to your accounts during probate proceedings, it is highly unlikely.

Often, family members gain access to a deceased relative’s online bank accounts and investment accounts.

By Domonique Davis

“If you have an online banking account it is very rare that the state will get it during probate. Depending on your situation — whether you’re married or have children — your assets will probably go to someone in your family,” Dariotis said.

Recovering other digital assets, however, may be a more challenging ordeal for living relatives. If a person’s passwords were not made readily available to others before they died, recovering his or her account information could be impossible.

In some cases, a court order may be granted that allows a family the rights to a deceased family member’s possessions, which would include all of the person’s assets and records. Things get complicated, however, when trying to determine if the deceased person wanted their online accounts to be accessed.

For that reason, various companies implement different policies for dealing with a deceased user’s account.

Hotmail will provide relatives with a CD of all the messages in their loved one’s account given they provide a death certificate and proof of power of attorney.

Google launched a product called Inactive Account Manager that allows users to specify what happens to their data — which includes email from Gmail accounts, videos in YouTube, pictures in Picasa and documents on Google Drive — after they have been inactive for various lengths of time. After three, six or 12 months of inactivity, users can request that their data be deleted.

However, with social networking accounts things work a little differently. Facebook, for

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Saving the

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32 January–February 2014

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»life Click

example, will follow a family’s wishes to take down a deceased user’s profile or “memorialize” it by removing features like status updates and letting only confirmed friends view the profile and post comments. Twitter will deactivate the account of a user who has died if a confirmed immediate relative can provide proof of death.

Most of the headaches that may arise from trying to access a loved one’s account after they’ve died can be prevented by discussing their wishes beforehand. Legal experts now encourage people to specify in their wills what they would like to happen to their online accounts after they’re gone.

Presser suggests that perhaps the simplest way to ensure your online life is taken care of is to appoint a digital executor — a tech-savvy person who will be willing and able to carry out your wishes. Authorize the person to access your inventory of log-in information and spell out what you want done with each account, whether it’s providing access to loved ones or business partners, or deleting it.

As an estate attorney, “Until there are Dariotis advises people of all ages to specify more consistent in their wills whom laws and procedures they would want their assets to go to, even governing this area, if the asset is simply a it’s best to plan password.

“If you die withahead, leave clear out a will and you’re single and your assets instructions and be go to your parents it sure you have a list of might not be a big deal,” Dariotis said. accounts where your “However, when you’re estate lawyer or a married and you want someone other than loved one can find it your spouse to receive and access it.” assets it’s important to have a will, because — Terrance Dariotis, you can name the beneficiary.” wills, trusts and estate He added that when attorney creating a will people can be as specific or general as they’d like.

Using generic terms that will entrust a person with your accounts would suffice in most situations.

“You don’t have to be really specific. You can use generic terms in your will that name someone a beneficiary of various assets, including online accounts,” Dariotis explained. “A young or unmarried person may or may not need to have a will, depending on different factors. But it never hurts to have one.”

The digital world has grown and transformed so rapidly, the law hasn’t kept up, which makes managing your digital afterlife challenging, Presser added.

“Until there are more consistent laws and procedures governing this area, it’s best to plan ahead, leave clear instructions and be sure you have a list of accounts where your estate lawyer or a loved one can find it and access it,” he said. “It will make a world of difference to your survivors.” n

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Scott Holstein

»life Here to Help

The ‘Voice of the Victim’ After Her Daughter’s Murder, Pat Tuthill Crusades to Track Parolees Between States

By Florence Snyder

Tallahassee’s Patricia Tuthill has fans in all 50 states. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of North Dakota calls her “the nation’s voice of the victim.” A National Judicial College faculty member says “her public policy impact on our nation is rivaled by none.” A U.S. Department of Justice bureau chief credits her with inspiring a “change in thinking” about public safety.

Tuthill would trade all of the accolades for one more minute with her firstborn.

Peyton Tuthill was 23 in 1999 when she was raped Pat Tuthill has and murdered in Colorado by a convicted felon memorialized from Maryland who was, on paper, under close her daughter by advocating for a new supervision by authorities in both states. interstate compact “Peyton was athletic, and she loved the outdoors,” that tracks parolees Tuthill said, so Denver seemed like a good choice for between states and graduate school after she got her bachelor’s degree by creating a scholfrom College of Charleston in South Carolina. arship for survivors Peyton phoned home often with vignettes about who have lost loved ones to violence. the many friends she was making as she settled in to

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»life Here to Help her new life out west. Back in Fort Walton Beach where the Tuthills had lived for 27 years, Peyton’s mom was focused on her younger daughter, and on her career as a human resources executive.

Then, Peyton was gone, and for a while, so was Tuthill’s ability to function. Filled with “rage and hate,” she considered suicide, but most days could not muster the energy to brush her teeth.

Eventually, Tuthill’s professional training and religious faith kicked in. “A criminal had taken my child away from me and from her sister. How could I think of leaving my other child?” Tuthill said. “I had been so overcome with grief and sadness, I could not grab hold of the anger I needed to survive. I prayed for anger.”

Her prayers were answered one morning with an unsolicited condolence call from her state representative, Jerry Melvin: “He asked if there was anything he could do to help.”

That was the motivation Tuthill needed to get out of bed.

“I had to understand how and why” Peyton’s killer had been sentenced to 22 years for violent felonies in Maryland but was released with a Greyhound bus ticket to Denver after just 22 months.

“A criminal had taken my child away from me and from her sister.

How could I think of leaving my other child? I had been so overcome with grief and sadness, I could not grab hold of the anger I needed to survive. I prayed for anger.”

— Pat Tuthill

First, she educated herself. Tuthill was appalled to find that the movement of parolees from one state to another was governed by an interstate compact developed in 1937 that had, for years, been paid attention to only when it was breached. Peyton had been tortured and killed because nobody in Maryland and Colorado had been paying attention.

Tuthill’s metamorphosis from hard-charging career woman to grief-stricken basket case to mourning mother on a mission was complete.

She wanted change. She wanted a meeting with then-Gov. Jeb Bush.

“I remember her,” Bush said. “She was compelling and tenacious.”

Tuthill’s next stop was Department of Corrections official Bob Porter, the state’s point person on the interstate compact. “Give her whatever she wants,” Rep. Melvin advised Porter, “because she is not going away.”

“I unloaded on him pretty hard,” Tuthill said of their first meeting. But if Porter felt like a punching bag, he didn’t let on. “Bob Porter became my champion and my mentor. He asked me to go to New York and address the American Parole and Probation Association. (APPA).”

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Peyton Tuthill was starting graduate school in Colorado when she was raped and murdered by a man who had been paroled from prison in Maryland.

Scott Holstein

Unsure of her ability to keep herself together while telling her story in a hotel ballroom, Tuthill drew on her professional experience and prepared a PowerPoint, because “that’s what an HR person does.”

As the presentation wound down, Tuthill went off script. “That was a good talk, wasn’t it?” she heard herself say to the crowd. “You understand what I’m saying, don’t you?”

The APPA’s executive director certainly did.

In nominating Tuthill for the Ronald Wilson Reagan Public Policy Award, Carl Wicklund said she was “instrumental in the development, passage and operation of the newly constituted Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision … a powerful and poignant voice for the importance of having a coordinated and enforceable way to transfer probationers and parolees from one state to another [and] successfully exhorting for an automated method of victim notification to accompany the transfer process.”

Those efforts have now been realized with a National Standardized Automated Victim Notification System directly linked

to the Interstate Compact Offender Tracking System. It enables surviving crime victims and the families of victims who, like Peyton, did not survive, to receive real-time updates regarding proposed changes in location for “their” offenders.

By 2005, the new Compact had been ratified in all 50 states, and Tuthill was looking for a

new way to keep Peyton close. To that end, she created The Peyton Tuthill Foundation, which has thus far awarded $30,000 in scholarships to 23 young people who have lost loved ones to violence.

Tuthill has close bonds with past scholarship recipients and takes comfort in helping them achieve their dreams.

In September, Hotel Duval was the site of the Foundation’s annual fundraiser. For additional information about the Foundation’s activities as well as information about victim notification, visit peytontuthill.org. n

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W H E R E FA M I L I E S A R E B O R N

»life The Numerator

Doing the MagLab Math

Perhaps one of Tallahassee’s most underappreciated treasures, the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (less formally known as the MagLab), is the largest and highest-powered magnet laboratory in the world. A collaboration between Florida State University, the University of Florida and Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, this unique facility has the power to advance not only basic science, but also engineering and technology in new and exciting ways. // Compiled by Chay D. Baxley

383 people representing countries are employed by The MagLab.

52

33

percent of MagLab employees have Ph.Ds.

400

Photo by scott holstein

liters of water per second surging at 45 miles per hour are required to keep the magnet cool.

» The average U.S. home uses

920 kilowatt-hours of electricity.

For the MagLab, it’s 3.778 million kilowatt-hours.

8,800 The Shrinking Quarter Trick An ordinary quarter is put inside the MagLabbuilt Incredible Shrinking Quarter Machine, a specialized copper coil and magnetic field.

The machine (which is plugged into a regular outlet) charges a capacitor that holds about 7,000 watts. About 100,000 amps are shot for only an instant through the copper coil that contains the quarter, creating a ball of plasma as hot as the surface of the sun. All this energy vaporizes the coil. The same explosion that blows the coil outward also forces the quarter inward, hence the shrinking quarter.

MagLab Open House

When: Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: MagLab, 1800 E. Paul Dirac Drive Cost: Free with canned good donation for America’s Second Harvest Food Bank of the Big Bend

-129°F -459°F

The coldest temperature ever recorded on Earth (in nature)

The coldest man-made temperature at the MagLab

students are instructed every year through the MagLab’s educational outreach program.

» The magnet weighs 35 tons and has 4 miles of superconducting wire coiled inside.

$54 million

The MagLab’s annual operating budget

12

The number of world records the magnet holds

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»life Parenthood

Parenting from a Distance For Divorced Non-custodial Parents, Planning and Cooperation are Key to Reducing Stress and Anxiety

By Jason Dehart Years after your divorce, your teenager unexpectedly turns the tables and decides he wants to live with your ex, hundreds of miles away.

It’s not what you want, but the paperwork goes through and you watch as your child packs up and leaves.

It’s a gut-wrenching new reality. On the one hand, they’re getting old enough to start making their own decisions, but they may not quite realize the consequences these decisions have for other people.

If a custodial parent suddenly is relegated to non-custodial status at a particularly critical time, it can be incredibly disappointing and hurtful. Take, for example, starting high school. For years you had looked forward to nurturing them through these challenging years of change and sharing milestones.

In a different scenario, a custodial parent might be allowed to take a younger child several hours away, making frequent visitation difficult.

Now all you can do is watch from a distance. But that’s not what you’re going to do. You’re going to do what you can to stay involved with your child’s life. It’s going to be tough, and it’s going to sap your strength, but it can be done. Here are some observations and lessons gleaned from online parenting resources (and a certain degree of firsthand experience).

Communication is your friend. Use it. Smartphone and computer technology make staying connected easier than ever. Skype, Tango, Instagram, email, phone calls and even old-fashioned letter writing are all good tools to stay in touch. Now, if only you can just get your child to return phone calls. Unfortunately, there’s no “app” for that, and even adult children can be recalcitrant about returning their parent’s calls.

Sometimes you just have to wait, and be patient, while they tend to their hectic lifestyle and activities. However you do it, make sure you are the one who calls or writes first.

While you have him/her on the phone, be sure to always say that you love them. This point can’t be emphasized enough. After saying the words, follow through. Listen to what they say, respond to their needs and support them in their activities.

Go out of your way — literally — to be there for them at the right moment. True, you can’t make every ballgame, driving lesson, band

concert, science fair, pageant or other function. But you can be there for that 16th birthday party, the Big Game, the junior prom and, of course, graduation.

Don’t try to buy their affection. But there are big purchases coming, and you need to be the one making them. If you’re a mom and your teenage daughter is getting ready for that big prom night, you go with her and shop for her gown. If you can’t shop in person with her right away, go browsing by yourself and take lots of photos of what you find to help point her toward a decision. Or maybe they have their eye on their first car. Both parents need to guide them through that decision, and help pay for it, if need be.

Stay on good terms with the other parent. Keep the lines of communication open between you. In some cases this is easier said than done, but you have to put aside any lingering acrimony and stay in contact. This is especially important as your teen child starts driving on his/her own and starts to make long-distance trips to visit you or other family — or to see a long-distance significant other. Stay in close contact with the friends and family they’re going to visit. Make sure they are staying somewhere safe and not getting into any trouble on their weekend jaunts. You and the custodial parent can, and should, work together on this.

Spring break or summer vacation is a good time to collect your teen from the other parent and spend one-on-one time with them. To make the most of this, you’re going to have to take some time off from work.

That means you have to insist that your child not waffle around about dates and times. This is especially true if they live in another state and intend on flying. Have them make a decision as soon as possible so you can plan your days off accordingly. It would also help to plan out your quality time activities so you’re not just sitting around the house. But as you’re enjoying each other’s company, don’t needle them for gossip about the other parent.

Every parent-child relationship goes through good times and bad times. But if you stay connected and do the little things that mean so much, you’ll have a much richer and fuller family bond despite the distance. n

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»life Great Outdoors

‘It’s Full of Stars!’

Look to the Skies for a Different Perspective on the World Around You

In the film “2001: A Space Odyssey,” astronaut Dave Bowman stared into the abyss of the featureless black monolith and gasped. “My God, it’s full of stars!” he exclaimed.

But you don’t have to travel through a wormhole in order to see the wonders of the universe. You can just lay back and enjoy the show from your own backyard. You can go to a planetarium. Or you could hang out with the Tallahassee Astronomical Society.

Bringing the cosmos into focus is the group’s mission, according to Ken Kopczynski, one of the group’s coordinators. The group hosts a free planetarium show at the Downtown Digital Dome Theatre and Planetarium at the Challenger Learning Center the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m.

They’ve been doing that for the past seven years, and one of the group’s board members writes the program for the show, which takes the viewer on a tour of the sky over Tallahassee for that particular month. Later that evening the planetarium visitors meet at Lake Ella to review what they learned that morning. The club also hosts “star parties” in local schools and parks, such as Maclay Gardens and Mission San Luis.

“I also do a lot of sidewalk astronomy, if there’s an event going on, or Saturn is out. It has a ‘wow’ factor. Eighty percent of the people who see Saturn for the first time will say ‘wow,’ ” Kopczynski said.

There’s no shortage of the “wow” factor in astronomy. Budding stargazers just have to know what to The Orion Nebula, look for, when to look for it and where to find it as viewed from the among billions of stars.

NASA Hubble Space This time of year, you will be looking away from Telescope, is just one the center of the Milky Way galaxy and into deep of many deep space space. Here, there are plenty of nebulae — interstelobjects that can be lar clouds and dust — to look for, such as the Orion seen without the aid Nebula (located in the Orion constellation) and of modern devices this time of year.

M41, a star cluster in the Canis Major constellation.

42 January–February 2014

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Photo courtesy NASA

By Jason Dehart

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»life Great Outdoors

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These, and many other deep space objects are on what’s known as the Messier List, Learn what’s happening named after 18th-century French astronoin the night sky during monthly free shows at mer and comet hunter Charles Messier. the Downtown Digital That’s what the “M” stands for in certain Dome Theatre and stellar designations, Kopczynski said. For Planetarium sponsored example, the Orion Nebula is M42. by the Tallahassee There are more than 100 objects on the Astronomical Society.

Messier list, and finding all of them without the aid of modern devices is a badge of honor for the amateur astronomer, Kopczynski said.

“The rite of passage for amateur observers is to see all 110 of these deep space objects using star charts — no electronics,” he said. “It forces you to learn the sky and how to use star charts.”

The group’s main stargazing site is Cypress Landing, a Leon County public boat ramp park, located on Lake Miccosukee east of Tallahassee near Monticello. Here, they have a 20-foot by 30-foot pad of crushed oyster shells members can use as a platform for their telescopes. There’s also a small observatory nearby that houses a compact, 14-inch Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope mounted on a Losmandy Titan equatorial mount. A special camera, made by Malin Space Science Systems, amps up the light-gathering capability of the 14-inch scope by a factor of 10, essentially making it a 140-inch lens. The camera image is fed to a computer screen, or a VDT, and renders stars and galaxies in amazing color.

“It’s not quite Hubble quality, but it’s really beautiful,” Kopczynski said. “The difference between looking in the eyepiece and the Malin cam is like night and day. In order for a visual telescope to see vivid colors it has to get into the 20-inch range, so these cameras are amazing.”

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Ken Kopczynski

Ken Kopczynski

»life Great Outdoors

Members of the Tallahassee Astronomical Society (top) at the group’s dome at Cypress Landing near Monticello.

Visitors can take a look through TAS telescopes (left) during monthly observations at Lake Ella.

It’s a strategic spot to make observations, because there are few trees and 80 percent of the sky is visible.

“The problem with going west is it puts Tallahassee’s light pollution to the east. Our site in Monticello is east of the city light glare,” Kopczynski said. “Out there, the light dome is in the west, but it’s not a problem because everything is setting into that dome so you have the opportunity to watch it before it goes there.”

No matter how you do it, staring at the cosmos is the next best thing to being there — which is good, because we’re not actually going there anytime soon. It’s just one of the questions that pops up whenever he does public outreach: “Can we travel to the stars?”

Others are, “Have you seen a UFO” and “Do you think aliens are coming here?”

“I’m a child of the space race, Star Wars, etc., and we have this expectation of traveling through the stars, and if there is life,” he said. “I see (Unidentified Flying Objects) all the time — that is, until I identify them. Aliens are a different story. When you think about the distance between stars, it isn’t possible to travel between stars because it is so great.”

Here’s how it works. Light travels at 186,000 miles a second. The closest star (aside from our own sun) is Proxmia Centauri, and it is four light-years away. That means it takes the light from that star four years to reach us. (By comparison, the sun is a mere 93 million miles away, and its light takes nine minutes to reach Earth).

Light speed might be manageable for the Starship Enterprise, but the fastest object humans have put in space so far is a solar observation satellite that used the gravity of the sun to zip along at 60,000 miles an hour. tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»life Great Outdoors

“It’s very fast on the interstate, very fast, but in space, it’s very slow. If we traveled at that speed it would take 10,000 years to reach Proxima Centauri. Forget traveling through space, it ain’t going to happen … people don’t want to hear that. But that’s OK,” Kopczynski said.

Another popular question involves our nearest neighbor, the moon. On a clear night the mountains, craters and shadows can be seen distinctly, even with a simple pair of binoculars. It looks so close, one would think we could see more. But it’s not possible.

“Lot of times people say, ‘Can you see the flags or “The coolest thing the landing sites on the moon?’ Well, I’ve seen was when even the Hubble Skylab burned up. can’t see that,” he said. “It’s really fun It made a last pass when you’re lookover Florida, and I ing at Venus and it looks like a creswas in South Florida cent moon. The and this thing came kids will say it’s the moon, and you say in. It was the size no, (even though) of 10 full moons, it looks like the moon, it’s not.” blue, white, red and That being said, orange; coolest thing there are lots of cool things to keep in terms of seeing an eye out for. The occasional bolide something burn up meteor, for examin the atmosphere.” ple. Or, satellites zipping across the — Astronomer Ken starfield. And, once in a blue moon, Kopczynski something extraordinary happens. “ The coolest thing I’ve seen was when Skylab burned up,” he said, referring to the abandoned NASA spacelab that re-entered the atmosphere in 1979. “It made a last pass over Florida, and I was in South Florida and this thing came in. It was the size of 10 full moons, blue, white, red and orange; coolest thing in terms of seeing something burn up in the atmosphere.”

And yes, there are astronomy “apps” for the layperson to download to their smartphone or tablet devices. Kopczynski has a good chuckle over these things, because even though they enable a novice to identify certain objects, the person using such an app or device could be missing the point entirely.

“The ironic thing is, you are looking at the pad instead of looking at the sky,” he said. n

Look to the Stars

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Information about Tallahassee Astronomical Society news and upcoming events can be found at stargazers.org. tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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by Ch b C Chandra d Clark Cl k Cl Assistant Professor Department of English & Modern Languages Florida A&M University

Communication is broadly defined as using verbal and nonverbal messages to generate meaning. We are always communicating—consciously or not—whether with others via language, clothing, hairstyle, body language or a constant stream-of-consciousness (our thoughts). In fact, there are many ways to conceptualize communication, be it through computer-mediated modes (texts, tweets, emails, blogs, etc.), mass media (newspapers, television, radio, etc.), small-group interactions, public speaking engagements or dyadic (one-on-one) conversations. If we can improve the quality of our communication, then the quality of our relationships—with ourselves, loved ones, friends, co-worker and acquaintances—will also improve.

One way we can improve our communication skills is by becoming better listeners. If communication—which is the foundation of all relationships—is a transaction that results in shared meaning, it is important that the messages we send are accurately delivered to our counterparts. Thus, effective listening involves our entire being so that miscommunication does not occur. Often, during a conversation, we are too preoccupied with thinking about what we want to say when the other person stops talking, or become distracted from giving the other person our complete attention, to effectively listen to them. But active, strategic listening, can make the other person feel as if you genuinely care about what he or she is saying, and can thereby improve the quality of the relationship. But how can we become more active, engaged listeners?

•

Consider the communication context. The physical setting, time and location of a communication exchange may well impact its reception. For example, if you have a sensitive message for someone, it may be better to speak in person or by phone rather than via text or email.

•

•

Paraphrase/Ask questions. With this strategy, we repeat what we think the other person has just said, but using our own words. For example, you could say something like, “So what I hear you saying is…” This gives you the chance to clarify whether you have properly understood the other person. It also gives them the opportunity to correct any misconceptions you might have regarding the communication. Likewise, asking questions of the other person is also a way to clarify what has been spoken. Paraphrasing or asking questions decreases the chances of you jumping to conclusions, and it also communicates to the other person that you care.

Pay attention to feedback. Feedback is the verbal and nonverbal responses of receivers during the communication process, and can be either positive or negative. Nodding, texting, yawning, and giving eye contact are all examples of feedback and can alert us to what the other person is feeling or thinking (no matter what they actually say). We can respond effectively to feedback in many ways.

For example, if our listener gives us a quizzical look, we might rephrase what we have just said, or ask them if they have a question.

•

Note nonverbal communication. The aforementioned feedback examples are also forms of nonverbal communication, which also includes tone of voice, gestures, all body language, etc., and can also shed light on the other person’s thoughts or feelings. In fact, according to research, between 60 to 70 percent of our communication is nonverbal.

•

Be mindful of gender and/or cultural differences. For example, studies show that men and women generally communicate differently. Men tend to focus more on what is said during a conversation, while women tend to focus more on the relationship between the speaker and listener. While men seek comprehension, women seek empathy and connection.

According to psychologist Abraham Maslow, all human beings have a need to belong. We achieve this sense of belonging through our relationships.

By improving our communication skills through becoming better listeners, we can enhance the quality of these relationships, and thus, our overall quality of life. So listen up!

Chandra Clark is an assistant professor in the Department of English and Modern Languages at Florida A&M University. Follow @ FAMU_LivingWell. Visit www.famu.edu/livingwell101.

Copyright © 2013. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Living Well 101. All rights reserved.

No portion of this document may be copied and/or duplicated without prior written permission of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

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»life Looking Back

George Proctor The Puzzling Story of a Free Black Man During the Time of Slavery

State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory

By Gibby Conrad George Proctor’s name and story are familiar to any student of Tallahassee’s territorial period. He was the middle link in a strong and influential patriarchal chain that stretched from the Second Spanish Colonial Period through Reconstruction. George’s father, Antonio, gained fame as an interpreter, scout and messenger, dealing with Indians in Florida for both the Spanish and Americans. His son, John, was heavily involved in Reconstruction politics in Tallahassee.

But, when examined closely, we don’t really “know” George, and there are many puzzling and intriguing questions left unanswered about him. The fact is, George Proctor left very little evidence behind. He left no known personal papers. The few hard facts that do exist consist mainly of legal documents such as deeds, contracts and court proceedings. Most of the story we know today was told by John Proctor, who was only 4 years old the last time he saw his father; and his story was not written down until the 1930s — 60 years after George’s death. As with all transcribed oral histories, the accuracy of the information is subject to the memory of the storyteller and the ability of the interviewer.

Much of what we So, what do we know about George know about the Proctor? enigmatic George A carpenter’s apprentice, George Proctor came from an was living in Tallahassee by 1829, oral history made by moving here from St. Augustine his son, John Proctor with the man he was training under, (pictured), decades Daniel McQuaig. When McQuaig after his father left Tallahassee for tried to take George with him out of California. the Florida territory, George’s father,

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With two cancer centers in Tallahassee and over 70 others in Florida, Florida Cancer Specialists is a preferred clinical trials site and was the recipient of the American Society of Clinical Oncology National Clinical Trials Participation Award. If you ever are faced with cancer, it is good to know you are close to Florida Cancer Specialists. We are on the leading edge of science. And hope is the fi rst ingredient in every prescription.

»life Looking Back

Antonio, intervened and filed suit, ending the apprentice contract. The 1830 census shows the population of Tallahassee to have been 926 — 541 whites, 381 slaves and four free blacks. George and Antonio Proctor represented half of the free black population. Socially and professionally, they occupied a unique niche in Tallahassee between slaves and free white men.

Antonio had been born a slave but gained his freedom toward the end of Spain’s second colonial period in Florida. As Antonio’s son, George was likely born free. George Proctor would spend 20 years of his life in Tallahassee and gain the reputation of being one of the capital’s best builders. Many of the houses known to have been built by him no longer exist. Curiously, we’re not certain Proctor was the builder of the house most associated with him today, the Knott House Museum. But existing legal records do show that George Proctor was a successful entrepreneur sought out for his carpentry skills.

Photo Courtesy State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory – Gerald Ensley

George Proctor had some success as a builder, but it’s not clear whether he was involved in the construction of the Knott House, shown here, which is most often associated with him.

On May 8, 1839, George Proctor married Nancy Chandler, a 24-year-old slave owned by Mary Chandler. George made arrangements to buy Nancy’s freedom for $1,300. As he did not have enough cash, he put $450 down and signed a note for the remaining $850 to be paid within the next 12 months. By all accounts, this note was never settled and Nancy’s freedom was never secured. This would become one of the most puzzling parts of George Proctor’s story. George borrowed money and paid off debts throughout his career. Why did he not settle the debt that would have assured his wife’s freedom?

The early 1840s were a time of economic downturn, and George Proctor’s business was hit hard. Proctor found himself in a terrible predicament. He could not declare bankruptcy to clear his debts, because to do so would have risked sending his wife and children to the auction block. Since he had not cleared the note on Nancy, she and their children were considered to be his property first and family second. George worked in and around Tallahassee throughout the 1840s, but his debts continued to mount. tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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In 1849, George Proctor headed for the gold fields of California, leaving his wife and children behind — along with a number of unpaid debts. His plan was undoubtedly to reestablish himself in a new place where he could practice his trade and make enough money to settle his debts and free his family. One of the only known pieces of George Proctor’s own words appeared in the Floridian March 10, 1849: “In bidding adieu to my friends and patrons, I would return them my most sincere thanks and heartfelt gratitude for the kindness, liberality and patronage extended to me from the days of my boyhood to the present. George Proctor.”

George Proctor would never return to Tallahassee, and his family would never join him in California.

Despite evidence of some early success in California, George “In bidding adieu soon ran into finanto my friends and cial trouble there, too.

As with so much of patrons, I would the Proctor story, the details of this period return them my are unclear, but one fact most sincere thanks is certain. On February 6, 1854, Nancy and and heartfelt the six children were gratitude for the sold at auction to clear part of George’s debt. kindness, liberality A year later, George’s and patronage father, Antonio, died in Tallahassee. It’s extended to me not certain how much from the days of George knew of the events that were my boyhood to the unfolding in Florida, present.” but he didn’t return.

There is some evidence that George Proctor — George Proctor in became involved in a the Floridian, 1849 civil rights movement in California towards the end of his life. He certainly could have offered a unique, personal perspective on these issues. George Proctor died in Sonora, Calif., at the age of 64. His obituary identified him as an “old resident of Sonora where he has lived since 1850 and was highly respected by all who knew him.”

Why has George Proctor’s story endured? While George’s story is interesting on its own, its survival is due in part to his father and son. Three generations of exceptional men give the history an added strength and importance. Whatever the reason, we are lucky to have this unique, if somewhat puzzling, insight into the life of a free black man in the age of slavery. It adds immeasurably to our understanding of the period.

So, in the end, is George Proctor an enigma? In many ways — as a free black who operated as a businessman in the Antebellum South, as a common man whose story survives along with the era’s elite, as a husband and father who left his family knowing what the consequences could be — the answer has to be “yes.” n The book, “Free Men in an Age of Servitude, Three Generations of a Black Family” by Lee H. Warners, was used as a resource for this story.

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The Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce is excited to present our new downtown headquarters. Come by to learn more about how the Chamber remains the business community’s premier networking, professional development and advocacy organization, and how a membership can increase your business.

Home to the following affiliate programs & partners:

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56 January–February 2014

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Satellite Office

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»life Agenda Awards and Recognition ▪ Carrie Englert Zimmerman recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Acrobatic Society as an inductee into the “Gallery of Legends” during its 2013 Congress in Las Vegas. Zimmerman is a Zimmerman national champion in floor exercise and balance beam, a 1976 USA Olympic gymnast and the first American woman to score a perfect 10. Zimmerman’s award recognizes her excellence, contributions and stellar reputation in both athletics and as an entrepreneur.

▪ Sen. Bill Montford, Rep. Marti Coley and Rep. Alan Williams recently received the Apalachee Center’s Community Hero Award. The Apalachee Center developed the award to promote awareness for behavioral health needs and honors individuals in the community who have engaged in notable efforts to improve behavioral health care. For more than 50 years, Apalachee Center has served individuals and families across the eight counties of the Big Bend region, dealing with emotional, psychiatric and substance abuse crises.

▪ Tallahassee’s Flag Credit Union was one of 20 financial institutions nationwide to be recently recognized for its significant community service in education. Flag CU helps local education efforts through partnerships with local schools, donations and drives. It delivered donated school supplies to W.T. Moore Elementary just before school started last fall.

Photos Courtesy pictured individuals and Hunter+Harp

▪ Tully Park at the Plantation on St. George Island is the newest Bay County Conservancy preserve. In October, the Tully sisters presented the parcel to the Conservancy to maintain open space and natural shorelines, and to recognize their father, Jimmy Tully, past president of the Florida Association of Realtors and developer of Tallavana and Capital Regional Medical Center.

▪ For the third year in a row, Moore Communications Group has made Inc. magazine’s annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States.

Moore This prestigious national ranking is based on both revenue and employee growth. MCG ranked 4,680 in the nation on the 5,000-company list that covers every industry, from health care and government services to software and retail. “To be included on the Inc. 5,000 list three times in a row demonstrates the passion our team has for our clients and our work,” says Karen Moore, founder and CEO of Moore Communications Group.

▪ The Florida business law firm Berger Singerman has announced three lawyers from its Tallahassee office were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in the 2014 edition of “The Best Lawyers in America.” They are Melanie Ann Hines, Brian G. Rich and Daniel H. Thompson.

Recess, Hunter+Harp

▪ Richard A. Greenberg of Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell in Tallahassee has been selected for inclusion in the 2014 Edition of “The Best Lawyers in America” in the field of Criminal Defense. This is the ninth consecutive year he has been chosen.

Transitions ▪ Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) is pleased to announce the addition of Sarah Cevallos and Christina Sievert to the Executive Leadership team. Cevallos is the new vice president/revenue cycle. Sievert directed the overall performance of the managed care and patient collections departments.

▪ David Orozco, J.D., is the new director of Florida State U n i v e r s i t y ’s M a s t e r o f Business Administration program. Orozco will work with faculty, students, alumni and recruiters to advance the strateOrozco gic vision of the multifaceted MBA program and promote its continued excellence at FSU’s College of Business. He earned his law degree at Northwestern University School of Law. ▪ Tallahassee lawyer and lobbyist Reggie Garcia was recently elected to the Economic Club of Florida’s Board of Directors, and appointed chairman of the membership committee. The E.C.F. is a leading forum for distinguished Garcia speakers on issues of the day.

To date, there have been at least 456 distinguished speaker programs in Tallahassee.

▪ Hunter+Harp Hospitality has brought in Randy Esponda to be the operating partner of Recess, the only rooftop pool lounge in Northwest Florida, located in CollegeTown, a new entertainment and residential district near the Florida State University

campus. Esponda previously served as general manger of Level 8 Lounge at Hotel Duval.

▪ The Cake Shop is proud to welcome Mandy Schnittker as its director of special events and community relations. Schnittker will facilitate The Cake Shop’s community projects and charity events, as Schnittker well as monthly culinary classes, children’s events, birthday parties and corporate meetings.

▪ Accounting and tax firm Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A. announces the addition of Becca Gilbert as its new senior manager of marketing and business development. The firm also announced recently that Allison Harrell has been appointed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) to the Governmental Audit Quality Center Executive Committee for the 2013–2014 year. Harrell has more than 11 years of experience auditing governmental, not-for-profit and for-profit entities.

▪ Attorney Mutaqee Akbar has been appointed vice chair of The Florida Bar’s Advertising Grievance Committee, a collection of lawyers and non-lawyers appointed by the Bar to review possible advertising misconduct on the part of Florida lawyers. Akbar practices in the areas of criminal law, personal injury law and criminal appeals.

▪ Andrew J. Power of Smith, Thompson, Shaw, Minacci & Colón P.A. in Tallahassee recently presented “Closing the Loan” at The Tallahassee Lenders’ Consortium Homebuyer Workshop at the Tallahassee Board of Realtors office. Homebuyer education is part of a TLC program that provides down payment assistance from the City of Tallahassee to first-time homebuyers.

▪ Computer Repair Doctor hosted a grand opening in downtown Tallahassee in September. Located at 523 E. Tennessee St., the firm is a newly established business in downtown Tallahassee specializing in laptop and iPhone repairs.

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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style

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terra palmer & Calynne hill, tutudivine.com 1. Adidas by Stella McCartney Carry-On Bag in True Blue Midnight, adidas.com, $140 2. Nike Zoom Wildhorse Men and Women’s Running Shoe, Capital City Runners, $110 each

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3. Dragon Ice Relief & Recovery Balm, Kanvas, $22 4. L’Occitane Roll-on Deodorant, Sephora, $18 5. Scuba Hoodie Stretch in inkwell, lululemon.com, $108 6. FLEX™ Wireless Activity & Sleep Wristband in slate, Dicks Sporting Goods, $99.95 7. Gaiam Tree Of Life Print Yoga Mat, amazon.com, $21.98 6.

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A life w e ll li v e d is worth r e m e mb e ri n g.

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»style A Better You

Moroccan Gold Expensive, Yes. But Smooth, Shiny, Strong Tresses Make Argan Oil Worth the Price

By Rosanne Dunkelberger Every so often, a product comes along that revolutionizes how we care for our hair, making it faster, easier — or even possible — to maintain a salon style at home. The blow dryer. Hot rollers. The flat iron. And now … argan oil.

This light-as-a-feather oil is hailed by many as a miracle — taming fly-aways and cutting drying time — while also giving all hair types additional strength, smoothness and shine.

“There’s such a difference in how (hair) dries faster and how smooth you can get it,” says Sherrie Clark, co-owner of Fuel Salon. “I work with round brushes and blow driers most of the time. I’m not doing much flat-ironing because I’m able to smooth with the round brush and the oil. It’s also penetrating the hair shaft and moisturizing.”

While it may be new to you, argan oil has actually been around for centuries, used for hair and skin care as well as cooking in Morocco, the center of the world’s argan oil production.

The oil comes from the olive-like fruit of the argan tree, Goats climb the argan trees in which grows in the Morocco to eat the fruit — the arid land of southern same fruit that yields the nuts used to make the popular hair oil.

Morocco and has a

most interesting backstory. A quick search on YouTube shows amazing videos of goats climbing the trees to eat the fruit.

Historically, the nuts would be harvested from the goat’s dung, but it is now collected by women who take off the outer husk, open the almond-like shells by cracking them on a rock and then grind the inner kernels with a primitive stone wheel to release the oil.

Because of the recent boom in argan oil’s popularity, Moroccan women have joined together to create cooperatives, which can purchase equipment to extract the oil in a much less labor-intensive manner. It has also preserved argan trees from being cut down for development, since the oil is a valuable commodity.

Pure Morrocan oil is expensive (poppyaustin.com sells a two-ounce bottle online for $25), but only a few drops are needed to treat a full head of hair.

Many products on the market now mix the oil with extenders or in other hair care products such as shampoo and conditioner.

Clark said she first discovered the product about five or six years ago when the Moroccanoil brand was highlighted at Orlando’s international hair and beauty show. In the ensuing years, the line at their booth “just got longer and longer and longer … And I just knew that was the best thing going. It’s staying, and it’s only getting bigger and bigger.” Her salon carries the full Moroccanoil line of hair products and recently added a display of the brand’s body care. n

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»style Mind and Body

A Safer ‘Smoke?’

The Jury Is Out on Whether Electronic Cigarettes Are Less Harmful Than Their Conventional Counterparts

By Jason Dehart Jim Hampton was a pack-a-day smoker for 30 years. Like a lot of people, he tried to stop smoking using various methods — the patch, nicotine gum, even the medicine Chantix. But none of those worked for him. Then, at the age of 46, he had a wake-up call. While his habit hadn’t given him cancer, it did give him heart problems. One triple-bypass heart surgery was enough to convince him that he needed to change his behavior.

“You think about cancer. Everybody knows about that, but I didn’t think so much about it causing cardiovascular disease,” Hampton said.

He had to find some alternative that would help him meet his nicotine cravings in a less-harmful manner. However, none of the other cessation methods satisfied the physical and psychological cravings that smokers encounter.

“There are two sides to smoking; there’s the physical addiction to nicotine and then the psychological dependence of the act of smoking,” he said. That’s the actual act of putting it in your mouth, drawing and inhaling, and it was this part of the equation that was missing for him.

That’s when he turned to electronic cigarettes.

It was actually something he had tried, casually, once before. Invented in China and introduced to American smokers in 2007, four years before his heart surgery, “E-Cigs” are not conventional cigarettes and don’t burn tobacco. They can look like ordinary cigarettes, or pipes, or everyday items like writing pens. No matter their appearance, they are a nicotine delivery system that electronically heats up and vaporizes liquid nicotine. The smoker then inhales and exhales the vapor.

E-cig users call this “vaping” — long a, from the word “vapor” — and Hampton describes

vaping as less harmful than tobacco cigarettes or other products. The liquid nicotine, called “e-juice,” is a solution of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavoring and a variable amount of nicotine. It’s a far cry from the 4,000 or so chemicals and carcinogens that burn in a conventional tobacco cigarette. The exhaled vapor is just that — a benign steam that dissipates rapidly without leaving that noxious cigarette smell behind. Hampton became such a believer in the device that he and his wife now own a store in Tallahassee that caters to the vaping crowd.

While E-cigarettes appear harmless, whether that’s truly the case is still up for debate. The Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Tobacco Free Florida urges consumers to not only be wary of any perceived benefit but to wait until reliable scientific evidence is available.

According to the Department of Health, there’s no peer-reviewed research in any credible medical or scientific journal to support the industry’s claim about the product’s safety and efficacy.

“Without scientific evidence from credible sources, we cannot endorse E-cigarettes as a beneficial step for smokers who are attempting to quit,” said Tobacco Free Florida Bureau Chief Shannon Hughes. “For smokers looking for an effective way to quit, the best plan is to talk to

Some consider “vaping” a safer alternative to smoking and a way to quit, while others say the flavored nicotine e-juice could provide a gateway to nicotine addiction to young people.

“Without scientific evidence from credible sources, we cannot endorse E-cigarettes as a beneficial step for smokers who are attempting to quit.”

— Tobacco Free Florida Bureau Chief Shannon Hughes

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Pulmonary Disease Specialists

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»style A Better You your health care provider or seek help from a qualified professional.

Floridians have access to our free and proven-effective 3 Ways to Quit, which include counseling from a qualified Quit Coach and FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapy.”

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration took an early interest in E-cigarettes. Early in the product’s introduction, the FDA conducted limited lab studies on certain samples and found that quality control processes were not quite up to American standards or were nonexistent. Hampton added that at least one study sample, a pre-filled vial from China, contained the same chemical found in antifreeze.

“We do have “At that point they took steps to ban the import of customers who those, but it was ultimately want to reduce overturned and the manufacturers continue to make the level they them,” he said. “Our liquid have been using is USA-made, and we know what’s in it. I’m not going to and were able sell anything I wouldn’t put in my own body, we are very to do that. Many confident in that aspect of it.” customers have While they ’re not an FDA-approved smoking cesquit. They’ve sation alternative, Hampton come in and said said they’re not marketed as such anyway. this is the last “We cannot market this, bottle, and some and we don’t market it, as smoking cessation. We marwe haven’t seen ket it as an alternative to a again, and that’s traditional, conventional cigarette, (one that is) 99 percent great.” safer and healthier,” he said.

And while he hasn’t quite quit — Jim Hampton, nicotine altogether, some of owner of Just his customers have used the device to do just that.

Vapin’ “We do have customers who want to reduce the level they have been using and were able to do that,” he said. “Many customers have quit. They’ve come in and said this is the last bottle, and some we haven’t seen again, and that’s great.”

The cost for E-cigarette starter kits at Hampton’s store, Just Vapin’, start at around $60. Costs for bottles of the “e-juice” vary depending on the size and nicotine strength. One Canadian “vaper” estimated the cost for him was about one third that of conventional cigarettes.

While it may have helped some adults quit the habit, Tobacco Free Florida and the FDA are concerned that youngsters could use “vaping” as a path to nicotine addiction. Many brands offer e-juice in fruit and candy flavors said to be enticing to young people.

Hampton said he shares that concern but said there’s “no law on the books” preventing the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors. His shop, however, chooses not to sell to anybody under the age of 18.

“But I will say this. If my child at 15 or 16 was addicted to cigarettes, I would much rather have them use this product, because I feel that strongly about it,” he said. n

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Start Small. THINK BIG. Holy Comforter Episcopal School cordially invites you to attend our Spring events.

STEM Saturday

January 25th, 9:00am – 12:00pm

This FREE event invites students in grades K-8 from the greater Tallahassee community to participate in a fun day of hands on interactive science experiences hosted

by Holy Comforter STEM teachers.

Classrooms in Action

January 28th & 29th, 8:15am – 3:00pm

You are invited to drop in and get an authentic look at our classes in action!

A Look Ahead Night Thursday, January 30th, 6:30 – 7:30pm

Come and meet the teachers, visit the classrooms and learn about curriculum and other exciting information as we begin to Look Ahead to 2014-2015

PK3 - K Play Days January 30th, February 6th, March 27th, April 3rd, & April 24th, 3:30 – 5pm Participation in a Play Day is required of all new applicants entering grades PK-3 to Kindergarten.

Please register online for these events.

W W W. H O LY- C O M F O R T E R . O R G P K 3 - 8 T H G R A D E 8 5 0 - 3 8 3 - 1 0 0 7

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»style Décor

The Stylish Home Office

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Scott Holstein

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1. Organized Simplicty, Vignettes, $16.99 2. Ditsy file, Vignettes, $22.50 3. Magnet set, Quarter Moon, $16.95 4. Ghandi-inspired paperweight, Quarter Moon, $28

5. Handmade mug, sold in set of four with stand, Quarter Moon, $48 6. MacKenzie-Childs country check letter opener, My Favorite Things, $48 7. MacKenzie-Childs flower market magazine file, My Favorite Things, $92

8. Rifle Paper Co. assorted notepads, Sweet Patina, $12–$18 9. Restored wooden box, Sweet Patina, $18 10. Kate Spade 17-month agenda, Coton Colors, $37.50 11. Burlap basket, Peculiar Goods, 2 for $89

For a successful home office, you need one part inspiration and two parts functionality.

The reason for the distribution is simple: while aesthetics are key for creativity, organization is crucial to productivity. Staying in between these two beacons can be a constant balancing act. But seeing as January is National Get Organized Month (hadn’t you heard?), now may be the perfect time to develop your own personal feng shui.

Here are a few tips to get you started: Define: Start the organization process by defining exactly what you require from the allotted space. Are you looking for a place to write your next novel or just a quiet spot to pay the bills? Does the For this home office space also serve as a (which doubles guest room? Once you as a guest room) know exactly what it our designers is you want, it will be took a fresh, clean, easier to achieve it. minimalist approach De-clutter: to organization. By According to Stephani selecting locally sold items with rich Lepford, personal aesthetic value as well organizer and owner as storage capability, of A Peaceful Home, we were able to sorting through the maintain an open, physical disarray that creative and stylish results from years of working environment poor filing habits can throughout the space. be overwhelming. But the task is a necessary evil. Excessive paper disorganization is the home office’s one true nemesis; it’s important to treat it as such.

“If it’s dragging you down, let it go,” advised Lepford on the trash or treasure threshold of ridding. “Just keep what adds to your life.”

Delight: Once you’ve evaluated and shredded the documents you no longer find useful, take care to establish an organizational system that’s right for your personality. We’re not all alphabetically labeled-manila-folderminded people. An open filing system with a simple inbox-outbox design could be an ideal match for your artistic style. // Chay D. Baxley

tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»style Habitat

Fix It or Ditch It? Hints to Help You Decide When to Repair and When to Replace

By Chay D. Baxley, Lauren Gillespie and Alejandra Nirenberg

After signing on the dotted line, new homeowners can flail between unmitigated pride and unprecedented horror in a matter of minutes. Your new place can cost time, energy, sanity — and a pretty healthy chunk of your bank account.

You love that new-to-you house. You care about its current condition and worry for its future. You tend to its needs, deal with its growing pains and look forward to seeing it every evening after a long day of work. Your house is family.

And then it begins.

The roof leaks. The washer dies. The stovetop element won’t heat up. We feel your pain, because when those days come, headaches and heartaches are never far behind.

Though we’re sorry for any future anguish

this extension of yourself may bring you, we’re not surprised. But we can help.

After talking to local experts, we’ve compiled a guide to coping with regular household maintenance of big-ticket items. Use them to help decide whether replacing or repairing is your best bet.

Washing Machine and Dryer

Washers and dryers can last anywhere from seven to 10 years. Regular cleaning out of the dryer’s ductwork is a good habit to practice, not only for the longevity of your appliance, but also for the safety of your home.

Make note to check your rubber washer hose biweekly, looking for cracking or splitting. Consider updating your rubber hose

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BRING YOUR DESIGN TO LIFE WITH AFFORDABLE SERVICES

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with one that is steel reinforced and replaced every five years, an act most companies are now recommending for both washing machines and refrigerators.

Be gentle to both of these machines’ electronic controls.

According to sources at Mays-Munroe, those components are often the first devices to go and the priciest to fix.

A general rule of thumb for washers and dryers is if a repair costs more than half the price of a new one, go ahead and replace the appliance. “At five years or less, unless it is too costly to repair, it’s typically better to repair,” explained Meghan Lisson of MaysMunroe. “Six to eight years is a gray area, and it depends on what broke.” For example, a broken control board, typically a not-soexpensive part, might only mean a repair. “Eight years and over, it’s better to replace.”

If you are in the market for new appliances, checking a brand’s reliability can be useful. In addition to researching Consumer Reports rankings and other online resources, dealers like Lisson can make recommendations based on their experiences.

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In our land of perpetual humidity, home air-conditioning systems run almost continuously and have an average life expectancy of about eight to 10 years.

Larry Barineau, president and owner of Barineau Heating and Air-Conditioning, recommends scheduling a maintenance visit twice a year to keep your A/C working at peak performance. Another way to aid your air conditioning is to change the air filter once a month.

“It’s simple,” Barineau explained. “Change your air filter every time you make a mortgage payment or every time you pay your light bill.”

According to Helen Wiggins, office manager at White’s Plumbing, the life of water heaters can vary. “They come with a sixyear warranty,” she said. “But we’ve gone to houses where they’ve got a water heater that’s 40 years old.”

To increase longevity, keep your water heater clean. “Electric water heaters can be drained to clean out the sediment,” said Wiggins. “If you’re handy, you can do this yourself.”

But if you have a gas water heater, you need to keep its air screen clear. Wiggins says this is the most common and most preventable problem in fixing water heaters.

Don’t hold on to an old unit that sucks energy and pollutes your home. You can get rebates for upgrading your A/C and water heater to a new energy-efficient model. Around 70 percent of appliances being sold are Energy Star-qualified, so getting that rebate is easy.

In the Kitchen

Stoves have the longest life of all kitchen appliances: 16 to 17 years.

Because they are built to last, stoves don’t need constant maintenance. If your gas or electric stove breaks, repairs could be as simple as replacing a burner.

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According to Mike Munroe, sales manager at Mays-Munroe, microwave ovens also require only minimal maintenance. “The most common repair we see are broken door handles,” he said.

Still, it’s good idea to regularly clean your microwave and other kitchen appliances.

When cleaning your refrigerator, remember to vacuum under and behind the refrigerator to prevent dust buildup on the condenser coils.

You should also check that the door closes fully.

If the seal is worn, your appliance is overworking to compensate for the loss of cool air. An average life expectancy for a refrigerator is between 10 to 12 years.

Upgrading to a newer energy efficient refrigerator will save you about $10–$15 dollars on your monthly utility bill, according to Mike’s brother, Mark Munroe. Also, be on the lookout for Energy Star-rated appliances that will get you a rebate from the city.

Some appliances do the cleaning for you. “Most ovens we sell are self-cleaning,” said Munroe. “The self-cleaning cycle incinerates everything in there. It gets up to 900 degrees. The whole process takes three to five hours.”

Dishwashers should last up to 10 years. Newer dishwashers have improvements that extend their life and protect your home. If you have hardwood floors, an upgrade could be a wise investment.

“Many dishwashers come with a failsafe that prevents flooding,” explained Munroe. “Especially our European brands, like Bosch and Miele.”

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Roofing

As a homeowner, there’s only so much you can do to keep your roof clean. Cutting off hazardous tree limbs and cleaning debris is a good place to start.

If well looked after, the average roof can last anywhere from 15 to 25 years.

Across the board, experts agree constant monitoring of your roof is the key to its longevity.

“Your roof is a lot like a car engine,” explained Rudy Rowe, owner of Rowe Roofing. “If you use a roofing professional that’s skilled in service on it, it’s just like changing your oil. You need to get someone on your roof once a year. Because if you’re proactive versus reactive, you can extend the life cycle exponentially.”

According to Dustin Stubbs, owner of Stubbs Roofing, there are a few things owners can monitor on their own.

“Typically, from the ground, they can look for curling shingles,” said Stubbs. “That’s a sign the shingles are getting older.

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Keith McNeill and Chase McNeill tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»style Habitat

“As the shingles age, the petroleum evaporates, and that evaporation causes the shingles to shrink,” Stubbs continued. “The big issue with that is when the shingles shrink down, they don’t adhere to the shingles below and that can cause the shingles to blow off and break in the wind.”

Mattress

While the life of your mattress depends on several factors, you should consider looking for a replacement after seven years of use.

But there are things you can do to prolong the useful life of your bed. “The best thing to do is get a good mattress protector that’s water and moisture proof,” said Chris Kingry, co-owner of The Sleep Gallery. “It will protect from sweat, dandruff, the stuff that we leave behind. Did you know the human body can sweat a pint a day? That breaks down the top comfort layers and the moisture can create a layer of mildew.”

Since most mattresses sold today have a pillow top, you can no longer flip them. However, turning the mattress top to toe does prevent body impressions from forming.

Paint

According to Paul Tyre of Tyre Custom Painting, a good paint job can last anywhere from three to 10 years.

Repainting interior walls is an entirely aesthetic, albeit important, preference. While there are no structural benefits to consistently repainting the interior of your home, a fresh coat of paint can truly transform a space. When considering repainting, factor in how much traffic the home sees and whether there are pets or children.

As for exterior paint, Tallahassee’s humid climate is no friend to your home. “ The sun is brutal,” explained Gerard Lamothe, owner of Superior Painting. “It can break down the paint over time, and the more direct sun your house gets the more it will affect the paint.”

Ten years is the standard lifetime of exterior residential paint.

While some higher end brands may be able offer you an extra year or two on that timeline, start shopping around for an experienced painter after you hit the decade mark. n

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Camellias

The Queen of the Southern garden

With so many varieties to choose from, every garden needs at least one; you may need a dozen or more. Red, pink, white and bi-color varieties can bloom from fall into early spring, and the plants are handsome year round.

Good for foundation planting, hedges, or a featured specimen.

Absolutely the best flowering shrub for Southern gardens.

You can’t have too many!

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»style Gardening

st, Ms. Grow-I t-A y Po ll dre Au

Garden BFFs Companion Planting is a Smart Idea With a Long History

By Audrey Post

®

Ms. Grow-It-All Ms. Grow-It-All

®

®

Q: I’m trying to reduce my use of chemicals, such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, in my garden. A friend recommended companion planting, in addition to using organic products. What do you suggest I do to get started?

A: Not only does companion planting work, it’s also smart gardening. You can save both time and money by grouping plants together that encourage each other to grow more robustly, attract beneficial insects and pollinators, or repel pests known to favor certain neighbors. Sometimes it’s the odor or aroma of a plant that offers protection for its companions. Other times, it’s secretions from the root of the plant that build up in the soil. Occasionally, it’s both.

Early European settlers learned to plant beans and corn together from Native Americans, who showed them how the corn provides a structure for the bean vines to climb, enabling them to grow two crops in the space of one. The beans attract beneficial insects to eat many of the pests that prey upon corn and, as members of the legume family, also “fix” the nitrogen in the soil and make it available for other plants to use.

Certain combinations have been practiced for years, such as planting marigolds with tomatoes, which supposedly repels nematodes. But the effect is cumulative within the soil, so you have to plant marigolds with your tomatoes for a year or two, minimum, to reap the benefit. The pungent odor of old-fashioned marigolds may repel certain insects, too; some of the newer hybrids lack the smell the older varieties had.

Another well-known pairing is garlic with roses. Some gardeners have reported similar success by planting garlic chives near roses.

Garlic chives thrive in our area, and they have an added benefit of attracting bees and butterflies when they bloom. Parsley and carrots also seem to offer protection for tomatoes.

Some plants that make good culinary partners also make good garden partners, such as cabbage and dill. Dill tends to get tall and floppy and the cabbage heads lend support, while the dill attracts beneficial wasps that feed on cabbageworms. Basil and

tomatoes, a classic pairing in the kitchen, are also a good garden duo. Beets and lettuce make a great salad and great neighbors in the garden.

Collard greens go well with potatoes, on the plate and in the garden.

Some plants don’t play well with any others. Fennel is one such character. Whether you plant Florence fennel for its edible base or bronze fennel for its foliage, make sure you give it its own area of the garden, well away from other vegetables. Both make beautiful plants, and butterflies love them.

Several books offer guidance on companion planting, but not all the advice they contain is appropriate for our area. You need to know what grows during which seasons here to get the most out of these resources.

Tomatoes pair well with marigolds in the garden — and basil, too.

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For example, “Great Garden Companions” by Sally Jean Cunningham suggests planting nasturtiums with cucumbers, both to repel cucumber beetles and to attract predatory, or beneficial, insects that eat some of the bugs that cause problems. That’s great advice farther north, where cooler summers allow nasturtiums and cucumbers to thrive in the garden at the same time. Here in Tallahassee and the Florida Panhandle, nasturtiums are a coolweather edible flower and cucumbers are a warm-weather crop.

The book still offers a lot of good general tips on companion planting, as long as you remember where you’re gardening.

Another handy book on companion planting is “Carrots Love Tomatoes” by Louise Riotte. She advocates planting carrots and leeks together, because each seems to repel the flies that plague the other. Both grow during our cool season, so this works here.

However, like Cunningham’s book, there are a few mismatches.

If you’re not sure what grows when across North Florida, check out a great book by James Stevens called “Vegetable Gardening in Florida.” Stevens, a University of Florida professor who helped found the Florida Master Gardener program, specifies when to plant various vegetables in different areas of the state. You can also find advice for North Florida taken from Stevens’ book at the Leon County Extension Service’s website at http://bit.ly/180lwtc. n © 2014 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll. com or visit her website at www.msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of Postscript Publishing.

January & February Garden Events Jan. 2: The Magnolia Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society meets in Room 1024 of the King Building at FSU, 319 Stadium Drive. Social time begins at 7 p.m., chapter meeting at 7:15 and program at 7:45. Dan Miller will speak on propagation of native plants. Free parking evenings at the parking garage just south of the King Building.

Go to magnolia.fnpschapters.org for more information.

Jan. 11-12: 61st Annual Camellia Show, presented by the Camellia & Garden Club of Tallahassee, in cooperation with the American Camellia Society, Doyle Conner Administration Building, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 3125 Conner Blvd., 1–5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free. Go to atlanticcoastcamelliasociety.org/ tallahasseecamelliaclub.html for more information.

Jan. 6 and Feb. 3: Tallahassee Edible Garden Club meets at 6 p.m. at the pavilion in Winthrop Park, behind the tennis courts, 1601 Mitchell Ave.

Jan. 14 and Feb. 11: Apalachee Beekeepers meet at the Leon County Extension office, 615 Paul Russell Road. Working with the hives on-site at 5:30 p.m., business meeting at 6:30 and program at 7. Go to google.com/ site/apalacheebee for more information.

Jan. 9 and Feb. 13: Tallahassee Orchid Society meets at 7 p.m. in Jubilee Cottage at Goodwood Museum & Gardens, 1600 Miccosukee Road. Go to tallyorchid.org for more information.

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Jan. 16: Tallahassee Garden Club Plant Exchange and Horticulture

Thinking About Buying or Selling Real Estate?

Program, 507 N. Calhoun St. Plant exchange begins at 9:30 a.m., program on pruning shrubs with Clara Skipper and Kathy Carmichael at 10:15. Go to tallahasseegardenclub.com for more information.

Jan. 17–23: Annual Birdseed Benefit for the Tallahassee Museum at Native Nurseries, 1661 Centerville Road. A portion of all birdseed sales will benefit the museum, and birdseed and wild bird feeders will be on sale.

Jan. 18: Jody Walthall will present a free program on attracting more and varied birds to your feeders, squirrel-proofing your feeder and creating a bird garden that is both aesthetically pleasing and good for the birds.

10 a.m. Native Nurseries, 1661 Centerville Road.

Jan. 19 and Feb. 16: Tallahassee Area Rose Society meets at 2:30 p.m. in the Laundry Cottage at Goodwood Museum & Gardens, 1600 Miccosukee Road. Go to tallahasseearearosesociety.org for more information.

Jan. 26: Tallahassee Daylily Club meets at 2 p.m. at the Leon County Extension Center, 615 Paul Russell Road. Guest speaker will be James Fennell of HopeHill Daylilies in Hawkinsville, Ga. Go to thsgardens.org for more information.

Feb. 4: The Camellia & Garden Club of Tallahassee will hold its annual fundraising Camellia Plant Auction in Jubilee Cottage at Goodwood Museum & Gardens, 1600 Miccosukee Road. Social begins at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7 and the business meeting and auction follow. There is no charge to attend the meeting and auction, but dinner costs $10 and reservations must be confirmed.

Go to atlanticcoastcamelliasociety.org/TallahasseeCamelliaClub. html for more information.

Feb. 7: First Friday Brown Bag Lecture Series, Carriage House Conference Center, Goodwood Museum & Gardens. Harriet Wright of the Tallahassee Orchid Society will present a program on orchids. In conjunction with the program, TOS and Goodwood will open a three-week exhibit of a variety of blooming orchids in the Main House’s enclosed sun porch.

The exhibit runs Feb. 7–28. Go to goodwoodmuseum.org or tallyorchid.org for more information.

Feb. 8: The 22nd Annual Old Garden Rose Sale adjacent to the Virginia McKee Greenhouse at Goodwood Museum and Gardens, 9 a.m. to noon and continuing every Friday and Saturday morning until sold out. Proceeds are used for the restoration and maintenance of the rose gardens at Goodwood. This year there will be an estimated 1,750 roses in about 120 varieties, including Louis Philippe, Duchesse de Brabant, Pink Pet and several recent additions. Contact John Sullivan at joh4@aol.com for a list of the rose varieties available.

Feb. 6: The Magnolia Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society meets in Room 1024 of the King Building at FSU, 319 Stadium Drive. Social time begins at 7 p.m., chapter meeting at 7:15 and program at 7:45. Will Sheftall will speak on the relationship between soil and plants.

Free parking evenings at the parking garage just south of the King Building. Go to magnolia. fnpschapters.org/ for more information.

Feb. 20: Tallahassee Garden Club Plant Exchange and Horticulture Program. Plant exchange begins at 9:30 a.m., program on bluebirds with Fred Dietrich at 10:15.

Go to tallahasseegardenclub.com for more information.

Feb. 23: Tallahassee Daylily Club meets at 2 p.m. at the Leon County Extension Center, 615 Paul Russell Road. Guest speakers will be Dan and Jane Trimmer of Watermill Gardens in Enterprise, Fla.

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»style Getaways

Spa City Arkansas’ Hot Springs Revives Its Reputation for R & R By Jack Macaleavy

Brandon Rush

Dero Sanford thinkdero.com

When I told associates I was going to Hot Springs, Ark., just about everyone asked “Why?” and “What’s to do there?” For the most part, I really had no idea what the town had to offer a leisure traveler other than the experience of bathing in earth-warmed waters.

Well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg for the palette of offerings in Hot Springs.

From a historical perspective, Hot Springs is truly the first major resort town in the United States — a distinction that grew from the mythical perception that the 143 degree waters bubbling out of the earth had magical healing powers to offer the sick and disabled. Hot Springs was designated as one of the country’s first national parks, so the government began to direct the 700,000 gallons of water that percolate out of the wells each The hot water from natural hot springs (below) day into a well-engineered congive Hot Springs, Ark., duit system that delivered it to its name and its original the nine buildings on Bathhouse allure for tourists. The elRow and a few resort hotels such egant hotels of Bathhouse as the Arlington Resort Hotel Row (right) are in the and Spa and the Majestic (which midst of revitalization. closed in 2006).

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»style Getaways

Photos courtesy Visit Hot Springs

So, in the late 1800s, a grand era began in Hot Springs that would last for 50-plus years. The region attracted the well-to-do from throughout the U.S. who were seeking the healing powers of the warm waters. An entertainment industry developed soon after.

Most of those who came to the springs for medicinal reasons had run out of all traditional medical options of the time, and their doctors prescribed a series of bathing regimens. So they flocked to Hot Springs as a last resort, many staying for months at a time for daily baths with the hope and expectation that this would cure their sickness or disability. What it did do was get them to a relaxing resort atmosphere and freed them from the stresses of daily living. I suspect these factors contributed to the well-being of those who experienced a sense of rejuvenation or cure.

What followed was an influx of the wealthy who had nothing but time on their hands — and a crime underworld with its many vices: booze, showbiz, casino entertainment, gambling and prostitution.

Very quickly the police and sheriff’s department became part of the culture, being bribed to protect the interests of an exploding crime network that was as much a part of the culture and reputation of Hot Springs as the water.

Between the ’20s and ’50s, elite crime bosses like Alvin Karpis, Bonnie and Clyde, Machine Gun Kelly, Baby Face Nelson, Al Capone, Lucky Luciano and Frank Costello would regularly come

to town to vacation, relax and enjoy the resort atmosphere. Back home, they may have been arch enemies, but in Hot Springs they left each other alone as part of the “unwritten rule.”

In 1904, the Oaklawn Park Race Track opened and still flourishes today with a three-and-a-halfmonth season culminating in the Arkansas Derby — the last race held for 3-year-olds that is always held three weeks prior to the Kentucky Derby.

A list of supper clubs opened in the ’20s, and that brought in the entertainment elite such as Al Jolson, Mae West, The Rat Pack — Sinatra, Davis and Martin — Phyllis Diller, Shecky Greene and many more.

Life was good in Hot Springs — people lived very large and the money flowed. But it all came to an abrupt end in 1966, when Winthrop Rockefeller took over as governor and shut the gambling operations down. Shortly afterward, Las Vegas took root in Nevada, the “action” moved west and Hot Springs’ decline began.

Today Bathhouse Row is in the midst of a complete makeover, with investors securing long-term leases from the National Park Service and renovating the inside of these beautiful buildings whose exteriors look exactly the same as they did when they were built. They offer an affordable bath service in the same tradition found a century ago.

The Arlington Hotel in the heart of downtown Hot Springs is being updated, and the remaining era hotels await investors who will take their “good bones” and bring them back to life, much like what happened to the Art Deco hotels along South Beach. I predict Hot Springs’ grand days will return in the not-too-distant future.

Today there is much to do in the boyhood home of Bill Clinton, such as hiking, boating, a visit to the Gangster Museum, watching the horses run, gaming at the casino and, of course, just experiencing the relaxing hot waters with the traditional attendant-served bathing experience that has not changed over all these years. n

The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa (above left) is the most prominent building in the heart of the historic downtown. In the early 20th century, gangsters such as Al Capone (above right) were frequent visitors. Modernday amusements include Magic Springs Water and Theme Park (center) and Oaklawn Racing (right) and Gaming (left).

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»feature Deal Estate

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In the Neighborhood

Facts and Stats

SouthWood

Where Southern charm meets convenience

All statistics listed below pertain to sales in September 2013, and are provided by the Tallahassee Board of Realtors, Florida Realtor and the National Association of Realtors.

By Chay D. Baxley

LEON COUNTY

Leon County closed 175 single family home sales — 45 paid in cash. 125 traditional sales, 41 foreclosures and 9 short sales.

On average, Leon County’s closed single family home sales received 93.7 percent of their original list price.

The median sale price for single family homes in Leon County was $187,000 — a 5.9 percent increase over last September.

Single family home inventory (active listings) in Leon County dropped by 0.7 percent between September 2012 and 2013.

Nikki Ritcher

FLORIDA

Sitting in the southeastern corridor of Capital Circle, SouthWood is a far cry from the bland, cookie cutter suburbia of yesteryear.

A 3,300-acre master-planned community developed

by The St. Joe Company, SouthWood’s designers made every effort to maintain an easy living style throughout the area. By incorporating the land’s majestic oak trees, shallow lakes and grassy knolls into an innovative design for an “all-inclusive” neighborhood, the growing development has painted a fresh, yet familiar, face on new Tallahassee.

The amenities don’t hurt, either. SouthWood residents have access to two pools (one for exercise, the other for family fun), five nature trails, a tennis court and community center, plus an award-winning golf course and restaurant. The SouthWood House and guest cottages are located in the heart of the community, just east of Central Park, and are a perfect location for hosting special events.

The land itself has a rich, interesting history.

Artifacts found onsite, including arrowheads and shards of pottery, are believed to be from Apalachee Indian and Mission Period Spanish establishments. According to Abraham Prado, St. Joe’s director of development for the capital region, four archaeological sites, along

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with four habitat preserves, have been put into place to protect the integrity of the land and native wildlife.

“Of the roughly 3,300 acres that make SouthWood, about a third of that is put aside for some sort of green aspect,” said Prado. “Whether that’s the golf course, the parks or just conservation areas, we do try to make a conscious effort to try and maintain as much of what was here as possible now that we’ve started development. A big component of that is our Central Park Lake that features a trail and is used for all sorts of community activities.”

Over the past decade, Doug Barton, owner of Barton Construction, and his team have designed nearly 20 homes in SouthWood.

What they’ve witnessed is nothing short of a miraculous transformation.

“We started construction on our first home in 2003 in what seemed to be a pasture of rolling hills and live oaks,” said Barton. “Now there are only a few locations available to build.”

For Barton, whose 2012 Parade of Homes-winning house was located in SouthWood, the true visionaries of the community are individuals like Mark Tarmey, the SouthWood Town Center architect. continued on page 88

Florida closed 18,490 single family home sales — 7,722 paid in cash. 12,756 traditional sales, 3,310 foreclosures and 2,424 short sales.

On average, Florida’s closed single family home sales received 94.2 percent of their original list price.

The median sale price for single family homes in Florida was $170,000 — a 17.2 percent increase over last September.

NATIONAL

Nationally, total housing inventory increased 1.6 percent to 1.93 million existing homes for sale.

National listed inventory was 16.8 percent lower than it had been a year before.

The national median existinghome price for all housing types was $199,200 in September, up 11.7 percent from September 2012.

The national median time on the market for all homes was 50 days.

The median price for a home in the South was $171,600 — 13.9 percent higher than it had been a year ago.

Compiled by Chay D. Baxley

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»feature Deal Estate Just Listed

Penthouse Prestige This penthouse dream home is one of the most unique properties in all of Tallahassee. Located on the 14th floor of The Tennyson building on North Monroe Street, this high-rise, four-bedroom condo boasts soaring views and exquisite updates at a prominent address just steps away from the state’s Capitol building.

Designed with the governmental buyer in mind, the property’s current owner utilized it as a second home after he purchased it in 2011. Now, as the market and economy steadily improve, the current owner is ready to move on and listing agent Beth Allen of R. J. Allen & Associates, Inc., is confident this unit will have buyers swooning.

“You can walk to wherever,” noted Allen on the home’s impeccable location. “You can walk to the Capitol or downtown. It’s just very convenient. It’s for people who want freedom without being tied down to all the maintenance of a single-family home, as well as the prestige of having a penthouse downtown.”

Steve Madden Photography

Downtown living with big city attitude

“It’s just beautiful,” she went on to say of the entire condo’s upgraded interior. “And the views are just gorgeous.”

While extended covered balconies make the most of the home’s outdoor living area, the interior space is certainly nothing to shy away from. Hardwood floors flow throughout the majority of the unit. A chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, a wine cooler and top-of-the-line appliances make entertaining a breeze.

And as for The Tennyson itself? The building has plenty to offer prospective homebuyers: a fitness room, sauna, multiple conference rooms, reserved downtown parking and a clubhouse equipped with a kitchen and huge outdoor terrace for larger gatherings. // Chay D. Baxley

Quick Look List Price: $903,000 Square Feet: 2,750 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 ½ Contact: Beth Allen, Allen & Associates, Inc., (850) 980-6001

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THE BEST WAY TO PREDICT THE FUTURE IS TO CREATE IT.

Just Sold

A Real Estate ‘Love Letter’ Residential real estate transactions are among the most emotionally charged purchases one can make. For many, the notion of a dwelling being a home, rather than just a house, is a very powerful concept.

According to real estate agent Courtney Roberts of Ketcham Realty Group Inc., prospective buyers shouldn’t shy away from the ethos of the situation. In recent years, Roberts and her colleagues have encouraged buyers to write a letter of introduction to the property’s current owner, explaining why they fell in love with the house and how they intend to make it their home. Due to the sentimental nature of this technique, Roberts and the rest of the Ketcham crew have affectionately dubbed it the “love letter�.

And, apparently, it has a pretty high success rate. “I’ve been sitting at a closing table with my buyers, and the sellers have told me that ‘we took your offer and it was $5,000 or $2,000 less than somebody else because of your letter and because there was that emotional appeal,’� explained Roberts.

Over the summer, one of Roberts’ sellers received such a letter and they, too, were struck by the author’s words.

Quick Look Originally listed on May 24, the property on Cameron Chase Drive Address: 3379 met with early interest, but the sellers Cameron Chase Drive were reluctant to give up their longListed: $225,000 time residence for $215,000 — a price point $14,000 below their original askSold For: $214,000 ing price of $229,000. By late July, the Square Feet: 1,740 owners of this 2004-built home were prepared to negotiate.

Bedrooms: 3 For the buyer’s part, she was eager to Bathrooms: 2 move closer to her loved ones, Roberts said. In her letter, the buyer wrote that what attracted her to the listing was the safe neighborhood, open living plan, the cleanliness of the home and its move-in-ready interior. “[The sellers] wanted the person within the letter to be in their house,� said Roberts. // Chay D. Baxley

Courtesy Ketcham Realty

Local agent says personal note from prospective buyer made the sale

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This unit is for the serious investor looking to have some serious fun.

Located just steps away from Miramar Beach, this four-bedroom, four-bathroom penthouse on the 14th story of One Beach Club Drive has been fully upgraded in every possible way.

Granite counter tops and custom cabinetry make the chef’s kitchen complete, while bamboo flooring in all bedrooms ensures comfort and elegance is felt throughout the space. Being sold fully furnished, the unit’s current owners have made picking up furniture during their travels overseas Quick Look and throughout the United States a happy pastime. As a result, the condo List Price: $1,189,000 is filled with exotic and eclectic items Year Built: 2003 that have a lush, tropical theme.

And as for the neighborhood, nothSquare Feet: 2,347 ing is lacking.

Bedrooms: 4 A sub-community of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, these conBathrooms: 4 dominiums have views of the Gulf Contact: Stephanie of Mexico, Choctawhatchee Bay and Vogel, Sandestin Real Sandestin’s golf course. Every direcEstate, Office (850) tion is pure beauty. And with this 267-8705, Cell (915) unit’s 670 square feet of wraparound 346-7355 balcony to look from, you’d be hardpressed to find a better vantage point.

Poolside cabanas are always available for property owners, as well as access to private tennis courts, a first class fitness center, clubroom, media room, large pool and a hot tub.

Traditional and golf cart parking is also part of the package.

“It really is a type of living,” said listing agent Stephanie Vogel on all that this luxury property has to offer. “It’s truly resort living.” // Compiled by Chay D. Baxley

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Sandestin Real Estate

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The Truth Behind PMI A stepping-stone to getting in the real estate game, not a cash saving technique Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, is designed to protect lenders from losing their investment in case a mortgage holder is unable to repay their loan. Utilized as an alternative to a complete down payment of 20 percent, PMIs are generally reserved for first-time homebuyers or those with little equity in their current home.

Monthly rates typically range between $30 to $70 for every “In your first house, $100,000 borrowed. you’re trying to get According to Pat Gaver, Residential Division Lending in there to at least manager at Capital City get in the game of Bank, PMIs in their most useful form are gateways to not putting your letting the next generation of money down the real estate investors get their feet wet in what can be a very rat hole, because pricey pond.

“In your first house, you’re there is certainly trying to get in there to at no return on your least get in the game of not putting your money down the rent. Overall, as an rat hole, because there is cerinvestment, there’s a tainly no return on your rent,” stated Gaver. “Overall, as an 3 to 5 percent return investment, there’s a 3 to 5 on real estate.” percent return on real estate.

Regardless, one day you’re — Pat Gaver, going to pay that loan off. But by having that initial opporResidential Division tunity, even though you’re Lending manager at paying to privately insure the mortgage, or you’re accepting Capital City Bank the government form of PMI, your next home doesn’t necessarily have to be that way.”

Occasionally, some buyers have opted to keep cash in their pocket by taking the PMI route, allowing other obligations with higher interest rates to take precedence for their money. But experts say this can be a dangerous juggling act and is generally ill advised.

It’s also important to note that PMIs can behave very differently, depending on the type of loan they are insuring.

Once you owe less than 78 percent on your mortgage with a conventional loan, and 24 months have passed since your purchase, you can cancel your PMI policy. For government-backed loans, however, this is never the case, and your PMI is destined to stay with you until the balance of the loan is paid in full. // Chay D. Baxley

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courtesy the naumann group

»feature Deal Estate

Through Ups & Downs

Since being built in 2003, this property has had its fair share of ups and downs. The first owners purchased the home for $323,600, or $120 a square foot. When they sold in 2007, the market value of the property had increased significantly, bringing them $442,000, or 36.6 percent more than what they initially paid. As of Nov. 1, 2013, the home was once again on the market, this time listed at $377,400.

450 400 350

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300 250 200

2003 2007 2013

continued from page 82

“We knew from the onset that this community would be a success by the way St. Joe formatted the subdivision,” said Barton on why he pushed for his company to get involved. “By creating a community with many amenities, diverse value range and housing types while maintaining a strict adherence to timeless architecture, SouthWood has been and will always be a place people will want to reside.”

Part of SouthWood’s allure is the variety of its inhabitants. As one of the few neighborhoods in Tallahassee that truly accommodates every type of resident — from apartment renters, to townhome dwellers, to custom home owners — the area’s population is eclectic in every sense of the word. A truth that is illustrated perfectly by the community’s nearby restaurant choices: Angelette’s Cajun Kitchen, Hasu Sushi & Grill, The Wharf Express, GraZie’s Artisan Pizza & Pasta and the SouthWood Golf Club’s Restaurant.

For onlookers and neighborhood visitors, it’s a refreshing change of pace.

“I have had a wonderful experience being a part of this community,” said Jason Naumann, one of SouthWood’s leading real estate agents and owner of The Naumann Group. “Its friendly, laid-back, neighborly atmosphere is not only nostalgic, but contagious.” n

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Hotel Duval Beloved boutique hotel sells for $23 million The leaders of Tallahassee-based Hunter+Harp Hospitality are well acquainted with large-scale business transactions, but when Schulete Hospitality out of Louisville, Ky., approached the group in the summer of 2013 regarding the future ownership of Hotel Duval, the principals of Hunter+Harp were beyond intrigued.

A few months and $23 million later, this iconic boutique hotel, located on Tallahassee’s main drag, Quick Look officially changed hands. The purchase, which included the 117 guest Address: 415 N. Monroe rooms and suites of the hotel, two St., Tallahassee upscale restaurants, a large ballroom List Price: Undisclosed and Tallahassee’s highest bar, Level 8 Lounge, was sealed on Oct. 25.

Sold For: $23,000,000 Hunter+Harp spent millions revamping the historic 1950s hotel into a sleek and elegant lodging. The group, which originally purchased the property in 2007 for $4.75 million, elevated Hotel Duval’s status so much so that the property became a member of Marriott’s prestigious Autograph Collection of fine boutique hotels and resorts — a major asset in the competitive hospitality industry.

According to Chad Kittrell, co-founder and principal of Hunter+Harp, the unique concept behind this boutique hotel made it an easy sell.

What’s equally as interesting and revealing as the transaction itself, shared Kittrell, is that out-of-state investors are realizing Tallahassee’s potential in unprecedented ways. After opening its doors in 2009, this facility made $9 million in revenue in the first year alone — showing national investors the region’s promising future.

“Several years ago major investors were not as interested in a destination like Tallahassee,” said Kittrell. “This transaction proves our town is becoming more attractive and desirable to entrepreneurs.”

As for Hunter+Harp, the company intends to stay an active member of Leon County’s emerging hospitality industry.

“By developing, creating and selling a successful business like Hotel Duval, this affords us the opportunity to reinvest in new ventures in our community,” shared Kittrell. // Chay D. Baxley

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A Day in the Life of Ruby Diamond

By Chay D. Baxley // Photos by scott holstein

F

lorida State University’s Ruby Diamond Concert Hall plays host to the most prestigious events in Tallahassee. From Medical School graduations to doctoral lecture series and the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, Ruby Diamond’s 1,260 seats are continuously being filled by all levels of Leon County society.

Originally constructed in 1911, this distinguished building has gone through a series of rebuilds since its debut. After the completion of its most recent renovation in 2010 (which totaled $39 million) this intimate venue is at the top of its game.

When country music star Clint Black came to town on Sept. 25 as part of FSU’s Seven Days of Opening Nights Series, we were able to take an exclusive look at the inner workings of Ruby Diamond to find out just what makes this concert hall so impressive.

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Ruby Diamond’s classic design makes it a suitable host for a variety of performances.

For large-scale events like the Clint Black show back in September it takes an entire team, hustling from dawn until dusk, to be ready by show time.

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R UBY D I A MON D B e h i n d t h e S c e n e s

1 1 : 3 9 A.m.

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1 2 : 0 2 P.m.

11:16 Here in the largest dressing room at Ruby Diamond, performers spend much of their time before a show. To bring the flavors of home to an otherwise foreign environment, artists will have written into their rider (one component of a much larger contract with the venue) certain items they prefer. For the Clint Black concert, that meant English muffins, potato chips and a little red wine. Lunch and dinner are served in the “green room,” (not shown) an area designated for the artist’s relaxation. Historically, these rooms were indeed painted green, but according to urban legend, the term actually originates from the “green” stomachs of nervous performers. For lunch, the Clint Black folks enjoyed a deli tray consisting of roast beef, ham and a variety of cheeses, along with assorted chips and beverages. On the menu for dinner was roasted chicken.

11:39 A private star dressing room is available, though Clint Black declined to use it, opting instead to share facilities with his bandmates.

11:59 In just 8 hours, all of these moving parts will come together in order to give Tallahassee’s country music buffs the relaxed musical experience they were hoping for.

12:02 Clint Black’s crew arrived with two full-sized buses in tow. One for people, one for equipment.

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12:32 With the help of Clint Black’s crew, Ruby Diamond’s audio engineer Mike Shapiro and his team worked tirelessly to ensure all systems were in order long before the audience arrived. 1:19 Ruby Diamond’s team of experts made sure all hands were on deck to help pull together the many moving pieces of this production.

According to Zack Berry, Clint Black’s tour manager for the last 23 years, the kind of dedication to proper planning exhibited here is key to pulling off any show.

“It’s all about preparation,” explained Berry. “Everything has to be planned to get to the point of starting a show.

From the time we leave Nashville and even before, you’re planning months in advance for what you have to do, where you’re going, how you get there, what you do when you get there. And then the work begins.” 1:45 The orchestra pit at Ruby Diamond can be elevated for extra seating, bringing the theater’s capacity to 1,260, or simply for dramatic effect during a performance. 6:49 Tallahassee Community College President Jim Murdaugh (right) along with his wife, Sara, were among those invited to attend Clint Black’s VIP Meet and Greet. The occasion provided the opportunity for a photo-op with the award-winning artist. “We’re lucky as a community that we have this sort of a resource,” said Murdaugh of the Seven Days of Opening Nights’ program, of which TCC is a Platinum Sponsor. “It’s incredibly important to have this in a community like ours.” 6:53 Before Clint Black (left) entered the VIP Meet and Greet, his manager Zack Berry (right) set a few ground rules. First, he said, don’t be offended that Clint isn’t at his chattiest this evening — he prefers to save his voice in order to sing later.

Second, no autographs. The crew was on a time limit.

And third, don’t forget to smile for the camera.

1 2 : 3 2 P.m.

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6 : 4 9 P.m.

1 : 4 5 p.m.

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7:11 After the crowd began to fill the entryway to Wescott Plaza, breezing past the famed fountain, patrons ventured over to the concession stand in Ruby Diamond’s ground floor. Soon the lobby began to take on a life of its own. 7:40 Slowly but surely fans started trickling in to the performance hall. By 8 p.m., Ruby Diamond was filled nearly to capacity. 7:44 Clint Black made a low key, timely entrance.

No pomp or flash needed — just good music and a sense of humor to follow. 7:45 Though Clint Black took a minimalist approach with his performance, some shows require extensive lighting and props.

According to Seven Days Director Chris Heacox, it’s important for Ruby Diamond to establish the performers’ expectation of the venue well before curtain call.

Communication is key at every level.

“It’s really a team effort,” stated Heacox. “It’s the Seven Days staff and the Ruby Diamond staff working together — everyone has their role.”

8:05 Throughout the evening, Clint and his band — guitarist Hayden Nicholas, drummer Richard Gay and bassist Jake Willemain — delighted fans with many of his classic hits, including “State of Mind” and “Like the Rain,” and also introduced their newer material.

8 : 0 5 p.m.

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Modern Slavery Tackling Human Trafficking in Northwest Florida

By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite

The 12-year-old girl came from a troubled home where she suffered abuse at the hands of a sexual predator. Without counseling and help, she became an easy target and victim.

“An older boy in middle school befriended her. He introduced her to his elder brother, who was a pimp. He ran several girls,” said Brad Dennis, Pensacola’s Eden Fellowship Church pastor and National Search Director for Klaas Kids Foundation, an organization founded by Polly Klaas’ father following her abduction and killing in 1993.

“The first time we were able to get her away from him [the pimp], she was hospitalized for multiple internal traumas,” said Dennis, who learned details of more inhumane trauma the girl suffered while held in captivity. “Sick and twisted little things … ” said Dennis. “He played Russian roulette. He broke a bottle and held the edge on her neck until it bled.”

This was the first time Dennis, who retired from the U.S. Navy in 2003, had come across sexual trafficking, a growing problem nationwide — as well as in Tallahassee’s playground along Florida’s Emerald Coast.

“Sexual trafficking is in every state. It happens everywhere. Since we started this in 2005, I’ve traveled around the country and was able to rescue a lot of kids. It seems to be in every small town, every big town.”

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»feature Modern Slavery “Within 72 hours two-thirds of those [on the street] are approached, recruited or abducted into sex exploitation. Every child running to attention and love or running from abuse or whatever has needs. If I’m looking for a victim, I just find out what they need and show I can meet those needs. It happens that simply.”

— Brad Dennis, founder of Called2Rescue

Dennis is one of the leaders in Florida’s fight to stop human trafficking. He founded a faithbased not-for-profit, Called2Rescue, which launched in March 2013 at Liberty Church, Blue Angel Campus in Pensacola. Presenters included Anna I. Rodriguez, founder of the Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Dennis and a survivor.

Taking the lessons he’s learned on the street to other growing volunteer networks eager to combat human trafficking, he helped Santiago Rodriguez, an outreach pastor for Destiny Worship Center in Destin, engage volunteers. The result: Emerald Coast Humanity Outreach (ECHO), a nonprofit formed in 2012 to serve Okaloosa and Walton counties.

ECHO and Called2Rescue have partnered with local law enforcement and state agencies to eradicate slavery, focusing on the region between Pensacola and Panama City.

Called2Rescue’s 30 members and ECHO’s 190 members strive to promote awareness, provide training on the issue and give people the tools to recognize the signs of human trafficking and how to report what they witness or suspect to local law enforcement.

“We’ve flooded every hotel in the area on how to look for signs of human trafficking,” said Peggy Morgan, president of ECHO. “The reaction from managers and the Rotary Club is shock. They say, ‘That stuff doesn’t happen here. Slavery? Are you kidding me?’ ” Florida was ranked third behind Texas and California in 2011 for the number of calls received by the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) hotline, a confidential tip line that receives reports from every state. The International Labor Organization (ILO) estimates as of June 1, 2012, that “55 percent of forced labor victims are women and girls as are 98 percent of sex trafficking victims.” According to NHTRC, 27 million people are enslaved and 2.5 million are in the United States.

“It ought to concern every person, every community, every business and every nation,”

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said President Obama during the Clinton Global Initiative meeting in September 2012 in New York. “I’m talking about the injustice, the outrage of human trafficking, which must be called by its true name — modern slavery.”

Challenges exist. Cases are hard to track and tally and are very difficult to prosecute. In fact, its existence is often denied. “What you can prove in court is a far cry from what’s happening on the street,” said George Collins, a member of a domestic security task force for the Okaloosa County Sherriff ’s Office. His territory encompasses coastal cities like Destin as well as inland towns near Interstate 10.

“Wherever there is a transient population of geographic bachelors, you have a market for sex trafficking. And wherever you have a high demand for unskilled labor you also have an environment where labor trafficking can flourish. It’s not always obvious,” he said.

Collins investigated a case in 2008 where the evidence pointed to sexual trafficking.

Collins said crews of girls who looked to be 14 or 15 years old were being brought in from Atlanta to Fort Walton Beach to work at bars as “taxi dancers” — paid to go to a hotel or a car with patrons. During a walk-through of the bar, frequented by immigrants, everyone said they were 21.

“There’s no regulation to have ID if (you’re) not served booze,” said Collins. “It’s not like the world on television — they can easily smell an undercover a mile away. It’s a very slick operation, very difficult to penetrate.”

Collins did bust the front man, an American bar owner, for income tax evasion but could not prove trafficking of immigrants from South America, Eastern Europe and Russia. “It took me four years to prosecute,” said Collins. “In that time, there were over 1,000 victims, and I still didn’t get a prosecution for trafficking.”

The lesson Collins learned? Prosecute what will hold up in court to stop the suffering.

The national tracking center reports types of abuse are usually under the radar and include commercial compelled labor and sex acts

through the use of force, wage theft, excessive working hours, workplace discrimination and harassment, child labor violations, unsafe or unsanitary working or living conditions, and visa fraud.

Common control methods include restriction of movement, harmful living and/or working conditions, which can traumatize the victim into a spiral of anxiety, helplessness and fear.

Both Called2Rescue and ECHO’s grassroots efforts to boost awareness and curb trafficking are mindful of not crossing law enforcement authorities. “We would not be wise to take a vigilante role,” said Santiago Rodriguez. “If you want to kick in doors, join the police force.”

Rodriguez instead suggests utilizing hotlines and resources trained to investigate crimes.

Of the 75 child trafficking cases Dennis has been directly involved with since 2005, 34 children have been rescued, alive. Human trafficking, he explained, is different in degrees, based on the size of the city.

“A small town has a smaller market,” he said.

“You get a lot of homegrown trafficking where parents, family members turn children out for sex. And I’m just talking about U.S. citizens.”

In the United States, Dennis said, the kids who often get caught up in sex trafficking are part of the more than 2,000 children who are reported missing every day, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). It categorizes the children into case types: runaway, family abduction or non-family abduction, lost, injured or missing.

“Within 72 hours two-thirds of those [on the street] are approached, recruited or abducted into sex exploitation,” said Dennis.

“Every child running to attention and love or running from abuse or whatever has needs. If I’m looking for a victim, I just find out what they need and show I can meet those needs. It happens that simply.”

The world consists of three types of people, he said. The wolf, the shepherd and the sheep,

the latter being the “people in our society do not believe anything bad can happen to them.”

Local churches, he added, need to wake up. Trafficking is happening in their communities, taking victims from their flock. This is not just an issue for foreign countries — this is a call for action in America.

Dennis invites more people to make a difference in this fight. He called out to veterans who he affectionately referred to as sheepdogs.

“They have been the tip of the spear and have a lot of tools. They are willing to go into harm’s way ... shepherds are given a flock of people to oversee and protect. If we can do that, then we can protect a lot more of our children,” he said.

ECHO recently visited South Walton and Freeport high schools in Walton County.

“It’s not a great topic, but ECHO opened their eyes that this is happening in our world. It can happen here in Freeport just as well as a large city,” said Kim Caudill, guidance aide for Freeport High School, who attended the student body presentation. “They encouraged students to seek help from within the school or a friend if they are concerned.”

During Spring Break 2013, ECHO’s awareness campaign included visits to every hotel along Interstate 10 in Okaloosa County and towns including Crestview, DeFuniak Springs, Destin and Niceville.

“Let’s teach people how to see and teach people how to hear,” said Morgan. “We need to let them [human traffickers] know that we know they are here.” n

Here to help To report human trafficking: Contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline to confidentially report or submit a tip by calling (888) 373-7888.

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) (800) THE-LOST | (800) 843-5678

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»feature Modern Slavery

Going to the Mat for Change

More than $46,000 Makes a Difference in Lives of Many in India, South Africa and Costa Rica

Scott Holstein

By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite

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Tammy Binkley wanted to run, to escape the rows of attractively dressed young women lining Kolkata’s red light district sidewalks waiting for work. In a busy and bustling part of town, the narrow, foul smelling road was lined with soot-covered buildings. Binkley, accompanied by a dozen yoga practitioners, hurried after their guide. Passing through a center square, they merged deep inside a gloomy alley to visit a drop-in center for children of sex workers. Instructed to leave before evening, little time remained before dusk turned to darkness that Friday night.

Binkley, 39, is a yoga instructor for Balance Health Studio on Walton County’s 30A. Over the past year, she has raised $20,000 to meet Off the Mat and Into the World’s (OTM) Global Seva Challenge India. The effort was directed toward the country’s victims of sex trafficking — people Tammy Binkley forced into the comventured to India to mercial sex trade against use the teachings their will. of the ancient art of OTM, a Californiayoga — known for based not-for-profit physical, mental which bridges yoga and and spiritual discisustainable activism to plines — to form a connection with ignite grassroots social the abused girls. change, flew Binkley and 39 other yogis — who also met the individual financial goal — to India for two weeks in March 2013. They spent full days in trafficking shelters and community centers with women and children, providing them training in new skills, teaching them yoga and visiting the sustainable structures and organizations that have benefitted from the group’s combined $1 million donation.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called for change following her July 2012 visit to a trafficking shelter in Kolkata similar to the one Binkley witnessed. “This is a moment for people to ask themselves not just what the government can do to end modern slavery, but what can I do, what can we do together,” Clinton said, as reported by telegraphindia.com.

courtesy Tammy Binkley

The Law is Listening

“Everything became real very quickly,” said Binkley of her India mission to make an impact on slavery. “I had watched movies about it … heard the tales of horror on TV … but walking down the dark, dank alley and seeing rows of women dressed in beautiful saris and brothel women standing large and in charge, there was a sense for me of, ‘What do I do? Do I look at these people in the eye and smile and wave? Or do I look at them with pity and don’t look them in the eye?’ ” Binkley chose to smile and wave. Many girls waved back. Binkley enjoyed working with the girls every day, teaching yoga, swapping hairstyling tips, helping them make jewelry and learn to sew — skills they could eventually use to support themselves in a new lifestyle, one of dignity and respect.

While among the survivors, returning to interact with them for full days over the two weeks, Binkley felt welcomed by these women who had survived difficult, abusive experiences. Binkley shared a lot of hugs, exchanged smiles and painted a lot of fingernails. “The places we went rarely saw white people,” she said. “We were the white people rock stars.”

Binkley took action and found charitable support from the community to help combat slavery through her passion for yoga. “It never occurred to me to use my talents and what I have learned from yoga to impact the world,” she said of her choice to join OTM in 2009.

She signed up for two OTM Seva Challenges.

Binkley has worked with other local yoga The first, in 2011, instructors to help was a mission to raise raise funds for projects $20,000 to support in Costa Rica, like this orphaned children with eco-friendly playground HIV in South Africa. built in 2012.

“I did workshops, yoga retreats, yard sales, boat cruises, poker games,” she said. “Being in a small town, I knew that’s the way [fundraising] would go.

I figured if I could do 20 events at $1,000 each … it’s doable.”

Tommy, her husband, tirelessly supported her goals and fundraising challenges, pulling in more than $46,000 for events during the last three years. Helping out wherever needed, he solicited suppliers he worked for to donate mountain bikes, grills and coolers for the poker tournament prizes. “She’s the idea, and I’m most of the time the muscle,” he said.

Raising money for India was Binkley’s second OTM challenge. “What I found out as I was doing the fundraising was people wanted to support me because they believed in what I was doing. They believed in the yoga. They believed in someone wanting to make a change, do good and inspire others.”

Partnering with Emerald Coast yogis Amy Likins, owner of All One Yoga in Fort Walton

“Human trafficking robs people of their dignity and deprives them of their most basic human rights,” Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi said.

In recent years, political voices like Bondi have upped the ante in their battle against human trafficking, grabbing the public’s attention with thought-provoking turns of phrase and firsthand accounts of the atrocities occurring right in our own backyard.

The message has been received, especially in the Florida Legislature.

In July 2012, state lawmakers combined three existing human trafficking statutes into a single law, making it more user-friendly for law enforcement. The new legislation increased the penalty for the crime of human smuggling from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third degree felony (which carries state prison time) and allows a court to designate those convicted of human sex trafficking as sex offenders and sexual predators.

Other political forces, including Gov. Rick Scott, joined the fight.

On May 30, 2013, Scott signed into law crucial legislation designed to address the aftermath of human trafficking. Two new statutes were created to give the victims of trafficking a chance at a brighter future by expunging any charges of crimes committed while the victim was being forced, threatened or coerced into illegal activities.

This newest legislation is, in many ways, an extension of Florida’s Safe Harbor Act, which took effect in early 2013. The Act addresses the issue of child sex slavery by increasing fines for soliciting prostitutes, and uses those fines to help fund the creation of secure “safe houses” with special living quarters for sexually exploited kids. // Chay D. Baxley

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Photos courtesy Tammy Binkley

Âťfeature Modern Slavery

For Binkley, India is a land of great beauty, heartache and inspiration.

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Beach, and Stephanie and Matt Penhollow of Destin Hot Yoga, the team independently raised $6,600 to build a playground in Costa Rica, traveling there in 2012. “We got to see the playground, play with the kids in school and have a little party,” said Binkley. The remaining funds they raised provided two needy families with an abundance of groceries.

Likins has known Binkley for 11 years and traveled to Costa Rica with her. “It has all been very Binkley in Costa Rica selfless,” Likins said. “She hasn’t been funded (right). (Below) Binkley by a big not-for-profit organization where she’s spent two days at the getting a paycheck .... She’s done it because she Baphumelele Children's believes that the world can be a better place.”

Home in Khayelitsha, Binkley first stepped on her mat in search of South Africa. This young boy gravitated towards happiness and health after a 1998 diagnosis of her the day she was leavchronic fatigue syndrome — a condition that ing. "He crawled up me does not improve with rest. A year later, she was and hugged me for a few teaching yoga, inspired by the balance, contentminutes," she said. ment and awareness the poses brought to her life.

Yoga has helped shape her 20-year marriage.

“For us, it’s not just about being on the mat, breathing and the poses and walking away with those few moments of clarity and peace. It has changed our lives. It helps us to see things not just for what they are, but helps us realize we can change things,” said Tommy.

Yoga has given Binkley a sense of self-awareness and deepened her desire to help others. “What I tell people is that yoga believes we are all connected.

When we start to separate and divide countries, religions, politics that’s where the suffering happens,” said Binkley. “So with my yoga background, believing everything is one, to me, it’s all going to create a positive change.”

Yoga originated in India. Binkley used the teachings of the ancient art — known for physical, mental and spiritual disciplines — to form a connection between the abused girls and herself.

The morning following the visit to the red light district, Binkley dedicated the daily yoga practice to the girls she encountered. She led the group with prayers and song, tears flowed, energy emanated as she sang, “OM mani pad me hum. May all beings be free from suffering. May the women and children be free … now.”

For Binkley, India is a land of great beauty, heartache and inspiration. A plump, dark-eyed and black-haired 15-year-old named Sumaiya, who wore glasses and a shiny blue plastic headband, embodied this realization with kindness for Binkley over days spent together in the shelter. Unlike the other girls, she was unnecessarily concerned about Binkley’s safety in the workshop, insisting Binkley wear safety goggles.

When it was time for Binkley to return to Florida, Sumaiya started giving more — chocolates, a “Switzerland” tiepin, a letter and drawing. “She didn’t have much, but she was going to give to me what she could and what she had,” said Binkley. “That day she was my teacher, and I learned about generosity.”

Binkley said Sumaiya and the other girls are no different from American girls. They want a family, love and happiness. Yet, Binkley learned something more. “The girls taught me that no matter what has happened to you in the past — and no matter how uncertain the future — to keep smiling, never lose hope and never give up,” said Binkley.

Binkley will pay forward what she has learned by mentoring fellow yogi Angela Ragsdale with her OTM challenge — helping to protect the Ecuadorian Amazon from deforestation and devastation. She will also start a seven-week local collaboration called “Yoga in Action,” part of OTM’s grassroots movement. “I want people to realize that one person can make a difference,” she said. “You should find your passion and your purpose and follow it — whatever it might be.” n

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contents

issue 1

17

coastal weddings

18 Wyndham Vacation Rentals Gulf Place

20 Wyndham Vacation Rentals Tops’l

22 Wyndham Vacation Rentals SunDestin 23 Sunquest Cruises/ Solaris 28 Hilton Sandestin

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city weddings

34 FSU Alumni Center 36 Aloft Hotel 38 Four Points by Sheraton

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country weddings

42 Maclay Gardens 44 Golden Eagle 46 Honey Lake Plantation

TERRI SMITH PHOTO (top) and MARI DARR~WELCH (bottom)

On the Cover

For our inaugural issue, we fell in love with this bride’s sultry style. The attractive couple gracing our cover had a vintageinspired dream wedding at Eden Gardens State Park, located in sunny Santa Rosa Beach. This image was captured by the talented folks at Pure 7 Studios.

51

making it happen

52 Dream Gowns 56 John Gandy Events

60 Bistro Bijoux 64 Nicholas Air 66 Maharaja’s 68 Sunset Lifestyles 70 Andrew’s Catering/ Andrew’s 228 NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

11

from the editor President/Publisher

Falling in Love in (and with) Northwest Florida

scott holstein photography

I was beyond thrilled when my publisher, Brian Rowland, approached me and asked me to work on the inaugural issue of Northwest Florida Weddings.

For me, this region, with its rolling hills, majestic oaks and pure white, sugar-sand beaches, will always symbolize love. I count it among my many blessings that I now get to share that love with all of you.

There’s something I should come clean about, however. I am not actually from Northwest Florida.

I found my home in Tallahassee much by accident — or maybe grand design, if you’re so inclined to believe — in the summer of 2011 when I relocated to Florida’s capital city to finish up my bachelor’s degree, and (most undeniably) to follow a boy.

As it turns out, it may have been the best decision I have ever made.

Over the past several years, I have repeatedly been moved by the genuine goodwill of this area’s friendly inhabitants and the deep-rooted devotion they hold to the land. If you stick around for a while, you’ll see that their loyalty comes as no real surprise; it’s easy to fall in love with the natural wonders seen throughout this region. Our diverse topography effortlessly lends itself to a variety of backdrops, from coast to city to country. And each has its own immense allure when it comes to matters of the heart.

To help you navigate through the magazine, take note of the different areas of interest we’ve laid out. For this issue, we wanted to represent three of Northwest Florida’s iconic settings — the coast, city and country. Toward the back of the book, we assembled the most talented vendors and service providers in the region in our “Making it Happen” section. Sprinkled throughout, you’ll also find bits of inspiration.

Having your wedding here would be the experience of a lifetime. Trust me. As a girl of a certain age, with certain (sparkling) things on her mind, I wouldn’t steer you wrong.

Speaking of which, I did mention something about a boy, didn’t I? And this is a wedding magazine. Sean and I frequent many of the locales featured in this issue.

Whether it’s been a romantic stroll, an afternoon picnic with our pups or a candlelit dinner for two, we’ve delighted in every delicious second of our lives together in this enchanting region of the American South.

As you flip through these carefully coordinated pages, try to envision yourself in each shot.

It shouldn’t be too difficult. For this publication, we’ve teamed up with the best and brightest photographers in the region to bring you real photos of real weddings. To learn more about each of the artists, please check out our contributors’ section, located on page 14.

If you’re a local, I hope you too feel the same admiration I do for this spectacular area.

If you aren’t, I hope one day you’re fortunate enough to experience all the light and love Northwest Florida has to offer.

Happy wedding planning! We’ll be seeing you.

Yours,

Chay D. Baxley

12 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Chay D. Baxley Prepress Specialist Melinda Lanigan CREATIVE Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Production Manager/ Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Designer Jennifer Ekrut Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Monica Perez SALES AND MARKETING Marketing and Sales Manager Mckenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre Account Executives Drew Gregg Westling, Darla Harrison Tim Hughes, Lori Magee, Tracy Mulligan Rhonda Lynn Murray, Linda Powell Paula Sconiers, Chuck Simpson, Chris St. John Marketing and Sales Assistant Nicole Liang Special Projects and Events Special Projects and Events Coordinator Lynda Belcher OPERATIONS Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton WEB Social Media/ Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine is published annually by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. 850/8780554. Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright January 2014 Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Partners of Visit Tallahassee and Member, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and Florida Magazine Association.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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contributing photographers

ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY “As a professional wedding photographer serving Florida’s Panhandle and a member of Professional Photographers of America, my passion is to capture the most important moments of your life. I would love to shoot your love story with the person of your dreams — everything from the magical first kiss to the intimacy of the first dance at your wedding.”

ALLIE HINE Allie Hine is a 19-year-old photographer from Panama City Beach. She currently resides in Atlanta where she is studying photography.

At the age of 13, Allie developed a passion for capturing the world around her and has channeled that love into her engagement, lifestyle and fashion photography.

wedding photography team that launched in 2011 and quickly attracted national attention. With a modern photojournalistic approach, Bryan tries to pull creativity from his past as a professional touring musician. Incorporating a laid-back approach, their brides and grooms always become their great friends by the end of the wedding day.

DEAR WESLEYANN For a girl who craves creativity, lives for laughter, is a lover of light and believes in all things beautiful … the hearts and smiles of each couple radiate through Wesleyann’s captivating imagery. Dear Wesleyann is a destination wedding photographer who calls the Florida Panhandle “home.”

BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY

HELLo MISS LOVELY

Brittnay Dawson, owner of Brittnay Therese Photography, is a young and ambitious photographer and makeup artist with a unique way of capturing raw emotion in dynamic, powerful images.

Specializing in bridal and model portfolios, she combines her love for people, beauty and fashion into a very personal and distinct style.

“I’m Autumn, a wedding and portrait photographer in Northwest Florida. I am not your ordinary wedding photographer; my concept of shooting is about capturing the relationship between two people … the laughter, the tears, the emotions. I believe that even closed eyes can speak to the soul, which is why I focus on creating stunning imagery that moves you.”

ETHERIDGE IMAGES Logan and Kristen Etheridge are a husband and wife duo with a passion for light, love and laughter.

“We strive to capture photos that radiate the joy in each of our clients and tell their beautiful story.

Please visit our website at etheridge-images.com for more information.”

Bryan and Kelly Honhart are a husband and wife 14 2014

JAcqueline Ward ImAges With a background and education in the fine arts, acclaimed photographer Jacqueline Ward captures the everyday moment. She resides in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. with her husband and three young children.

JAN ETHRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY “Being a Florida Panhandle native, I have a little white beach sand and emerald green Gulf water in my veins.

I never take for granted the breathtaking backdrop of these gorgeous beaches and moss-draped trees that result in the most spectacular wedding shots. My philosophy is to translate the joy and love of a wedding day into stunning photography.”

J&J Weddings CALLIE GARDINER PHOTOGRAPHY

BLACK & HUE PHOTOGRAPHY

team based in Santa Rosa Beach. With 14 years of professional experience, GwyneMark Photography offers wedding, family beach and glamour/ boudoir portraits as well as commercial photography.

A unique combination of vintage flair with modern fashion makes these two stand out in a local market saturated with hundreds of photographers.

Check them out at gwynemarkphotography.com.

“Amazing photos.”

“Adapted to our style.”

“Very calming.” “Our family LOVED her.” “Photo booth was a BLAST.” These are client quotes from renowned Florida Panhandle photographer Callie Gardiner. See the quality for yourself at CallieGardiner.com.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY Gwyne and Mark are a husband and wife wedding and portrait photography

This dazzling duo shares a passion for expansion and the talent to make it happen. Combining Jennifer Powell Photography and Jenna Reichert Photography to make j&j weddings proved that not only are they talented in capturing wondrous wedding moments, but that they were gifted with the power to bring life to the moments as well.

JUBILEE PHOTOGRAPHY A Louisiana native, Amanda Eubank relocated to the Emerald Coast six years ago and is now the owner of Jubilee Photography. Amanda

is a proud member of the Northwest section of Florida Professional Photographers and provides volunteer photographic services to many in the community. See jubileephotography.com for more details.

his lens on assignments as staff photographer for EC, Tallahassee and 850 magazines.

while creating stunning art from your candid, fleeting moments in a style she calls modern photojournalism. Her work has appeared in books and magazines around the world, and she is available for worldwide travel. Mari is the owner of Mari Darr~Welch: Modern Photojournalist.

VIZULIZ photography

RED STONE PHOTOGRAPHY KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY With a passion for life and a talent for photography, Kay Meyer of Tallahassee creates collections of images that capture the story of life’s most significant moments.

Her vocation, she says, is a “blessing” that allows her to share special days with clients throughout the Southeast.

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY Olimb Photography is based in the Florida Panhandle with the belief that photography should be firmly rooted in Christ-centered, heartfilling love. “I strive to bring a modern feel to a classic image. Like all photographers, I want my photos to stand the test of time, for them to hang on walls or sit in books on coffee tables and shelves for future generations to see.”

Alexis Rubenstein of Red Stone Photography currently lives and works on the Emerald Coast in Navarre, Fla. She photographs weddings and portraits and has seen her work published in many magazines, blogs, advertising campaigns and books. She loves to mentor new photographers and has been fortunate to photograph beautiful weddings all over the U.S., as well as in Japan, Thailand and Greece.

SONJA REVELLs PHOTOGRAPHY “When I was 21 years old, I began working as a news photographer for a small daily paper, and over the years I developed my talent as a photojournalist, covering any type of assignment imaginable.

As a photojournalist, I learned how to capture a story from start to end through photographs, without posing my subjects — a skill I use while photographing weddings.”

KELLY HARDEE PHOTOGRAPHY Kelly Hardee Photography is vintage-inspired storytelling through the art of photography. “I love capturing the beauty and love of life through photography, both film and digital. I’m based out of Nashville but love to travel.” Check kellyhardeephotography. blogspot.com for pricing or other inquiries.

MARI DARR~WELCH Mari is a fun-loving photographer who documents real emotions

Scott Holstein Photography PURE 7 studios Pure 7 Studios specializes in nostalgic, sentimental wedding photography. Their work has been described as vintageinspired, joyful and timeless.

Using a combination of film and digital cameras, their goal is to create images that will evoke an emotional reaction. They invest their spirit, creativity and skill into every wedding, desiring to give their clients images worthy of passing on to future generations.

Holstein graduated from Gardner-Webb University in N.C. and began his career as assistant to famed National Geographic photographer Joe McNally, working in NYC and other high-profile locations. His portfolio at scottholsteinphoto. com includes work for nationally acclaimed publications such as the New York Times, National Geographic Adventure, Delta Sky and Golf World.

An avid outdoorsman from Central Florida, Holstein enjoys getting to know Northwest Florida through

“We are friends in Tallahassee who share a passion for photography, so we formed Vizuliz in March 2012 in order to share that passion. We enjoy working closely with our clients so that our creativity, combined with their inspiration, results in personalized treasured moments. We don’t just take pictures, we capture feelings.”

WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

Catherine Taylor’s inspirations come from so many different places. She blends photojournalism and portrait photography, calling it portraitjournalism. She chooses locations carefully, and during your portraits she strives to find romantic lighting and incredible backgrounds — never posing situations that are already magical.

TERRI SMITH PHOTO Terri Smith, photographer, graduated with two degrees from Florida State University’s College of Business. While pursuing these degrees, she also enrolled in photography classes to keep her sanity.

After graduation, she went on to work for a software company but continued her love of capturing a great image. She realized photography was her calling and went full time shortly thereafter.

For contact information, please see page 82.

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The Coast is Calling.

The glowing sunset. The glistening water. The crisp, salt-kissed air.

If you’re looking for a memorable start to your life together, you might just find it on the shores of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Life and love here are about more than just having the freedom to feel the sand between your toes as you say “I do,” it’s about enjoying all the natural beauty that surrounds you while being in the company of those who you truly treasure most.

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY

As you inch closer and closer to the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll start to feel the stress of the rest of the world disappear. Don’t be alarmed — it happens all the time. For a destination wedding, nothing can compare to the eclectic ambiance of the Emerald Coast.

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from coast to city to country

Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast is known for its eclectic personality, Southern charm and vibrant local flavors. As a signature Wyndham Vacation Rentals destination, Gulf Place offers all this and more. An all-inclusive resort-style venue, Gulf Place is brimming with upscale amenities, impressive accommodations and natural beauty. Situated in an ideal locale on the elegant Santa Rosa Beach, this property offers an abundance of gorgeous backdrops to choose from. Celebrate life and love under twinkling lights in a grassy enclave or by the sheen of a glowing sun, surrounded by the wide-open views of emerald waters. Photos by Pure 7 studios

Wyndham Vacation Rentals – gulf place

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WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

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Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

Callie Gardiner photoraphy

Sometimes the road less traveled is the most alluring. If coastal tranquility sounds enticing, Tops’l’s secluded location is well suited for a laidback soirée. Feel the sand between your toes as you cozy up to family, friends and, of course, your betrothed. Guests will have the luxury of staying onsite and the pleasure of experiencing this unique region in its natural state. Life is simpler — sweeter — when you let the experts of this award-winning venue take the reins. Photos by Red Stone PHOTOgraphy and Callie Gardiner Photography

Wyndham Vacation Rentals – Tops'l

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WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS

from coast to city to country

There’s something to be said for the couple that wants to be in the center of it all. If a prestigious address and pleasing vistas are at the top of your must-have list, SunDestin’s breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and proximity to the hustle and bustle of downtown Destin are sure to inspire an enchanting affair. Here, attendees will have limitless possibilities when it comes to leisurely exploration, while the bridal party experiences the finest of pre-nuptial amenities. Photos by Jan Ethridge photography

Wyndham Vacation Rentals – sundestin

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from coast to city to country

The natural beauty of the Emerald Coast is like no other. Imagine cruising into the sunset as you say “I do” on the SOLARIS sky deck. Your guests will enjoy the forever-changing, unobstructed views and the warm, coastal breezes. Now that you are husband and wife, look out and toast your guests under the moon and stars. This is where amazing is unforgettable. Photos by Jacqueline Ward Images

sunquest cruises

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Your SunQuest wedding experience starts at the time of booking. You will work closely with your in-house wedding planner to pick the right colors, décor and unique touches to make your day the way you dreamed it would be. Your planner will guide you through incredible menus featuring the Gulf Coast’s freshest ingredients that our award-winning culinary team uses to create “art for the palate.” When the big day arrives you will not be alone. Your planner will be there to ensure all the details come together to make your day perfect. Photos by Pure 7 studios

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The yacht SOLARIS is 125 feet of elegance, featuring rich mahoganies and granite throughout the 5,300 sqare feet of passenger space. Accommodating up to 150 guests, the yacht is the perfect canvas for traditional and modern themes. The SOLARIS was designed with weddings in mind. The private bridal dressing suite on the second deck is where you relax, dress and sip champagne while preparing for the moment you’ve both been waiting for all your lives. Photos by Alena Bakutis photography

sunquest cruises

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OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY

MARI DARR~WELCH

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY

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SONJA REVELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY SONJA REVELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

Set against sugar-white beaches, emerald-green waters and breathtaking vistas sits the Hilton Sandestin. In addition to the pristine beaches, this venue also features two spacious, recently renovated indoor ballrooms along with multiple smaller rooms and a perfectly situated sundeck. Possibilities are endless as receptions, ceremonies, private meals or farewell brunches of all shapes and sizes will find an ideal setting within the many venues offered by the resort.

Whether your dream wedding embodies a true destination experience or a more traditional approach, there is no desire too intimate, no request too grand, for the skilled professionals of Hilton Sandestin to bring to life. Photos by Mari Darr~Welch, Olimb Photography and Sonja

hilton sandestin

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from coast to city to country

While the gentlemen take in a round at the resort’s award-winning onsite golf courses, the ladies can unwind by pampering themselves at Serenity by the sea Spa — voted the Best of the Emerald Coast for a 10th consecutive year. Your family and guests can enjoy nearby shopping, take shuttles to resort activities or enroll the children in a day of fun with the resort’s “Kids Krew.” With so much to do all in one place, everyone can enjoy their own preferred indulgences while you and your betrothed sneak away to enjoy your own private sunset. Photos by Olimb Photography

hilton sandestin

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ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY CALLIE GARDINER PHOTOGRAPHY

Family Matters Our families make us who we are.

Incorporating yours into your wedding day is the perfect way to say “I love you” when words simply aren’t enough.

Whether you want to coordinate a tribute to loved ones who have passed or plan to bring in carefully thought out design elements that tell the tale of your family’s heritage, don’t be afraid to ask for a little help. It takes a village.

Photos by MARI DARR~WELCH, Alena Bakutis photography & Callie Gardiner photography

getting inspired

MARI~DARR WELCH

family

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+

elegant creative unique d istinctive info@klassickatering.com | klassic-katering.com 850.894.0423 | 850.509.5005 (mobile) 32 2014

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Sophistication at its Finest.

Culture.

Charisma. And a little “jeits ne sais quoi.”

Sophistication at Finest.

Modern romance is at the heart of Culture.

Charisma.

And a little “je neand saissoul quoi.” every city-based wedding in Northwest Florida.

Modern romance is at the heart and soul of every citySee your love story unfold as the brusque, based wedding in Northwest Florida. See your love sharp lines of the city scene are immediately story unfold as the brusque, sharp lines of the city softened by the smooth, twinkling glow of a scene are immediately softened by the smooth, candlelit celebration. Upscale amenities and twinkling glow of a candlelit celebration. Upscale adventures abound in this diverse melting amenities and adventures abound in this diverse pot. Bordering an alluring blend of museums, melting pot. Bordering an alluring blend of world-class restaurants, exciting nightlife museums, world-class restaurants, exciting and an array of entertainment options, nightlife and an array of entertainment this sleek, urban backdrop is impossibly options, this sleek, urban backdrop is intertwined with its southern heritage. intertwined with its Southern heritage. Here, Here, there’s no need to forfeit your there’s no need to forfeit your appreciation appreciation of grace to your devotion of grace to your devotion to clean, crisp style to clean, crisp style and avant-garde and avant-garde architecture. architecture.

The city vista is polished, cultured and The city vista is polished, cultured and vivacious — just like the couples that vivacious — just like the couples that choose to call it their own. choose to call it theirs.

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

This photograph was taken at the Florida State University Alumni Center. For more details, see pages 34 and 35.

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KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

J&J WEDDINGS

J&J WEDDINGS

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

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KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

FSU ALUMNI CENTER J&J WEDDINGS

Adjacent to Florida State’s campus, under a lush, fragrant canopy of blooming magnolias and live oaks, sits the Alumni Center. Teeming with charm, this property presents the perfect opportunity to have a fresh, outdoor-inspired wedding in the heart of Tallahassee. A beautiful backdrop for rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions, the Alumni Center’s classic design blends well with any wedding motif. For indoor events, the ballroom’s light and airy ambiance is unparalleled. As an affiliate of Andrew’s Catering, one of Tallahassee’s premier catering services, dining patrons will be treated to the highest quality in artistic cuisine. In other words, it’s the total package. Photos by J&J WEDDINGS and KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

fsu alumni center

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Sustaining a sleek, modern vibe throughout your wedding weekend can create a cohesive atmosphere for you and your guests, seamlessly intertwining one festive event into the next. If you’re planning a city-based soirée, Aloft Hotel is located in the heart of Tallahassee, nestled between many of the most desirable Downtown and Midtown locales. Its convenient setting, combined with this fresh and exciting hotel’s 160-plus rooms, makes it the ideal spot for out-of-town guests to rest their heads.

Aloft’s expansive property also presents the opportunity to host a completely personalized rehearsal dinner or welcome reception, held in the ultra-posh W XYZ Lounge, just steps away from the hotel’s impeccable overnight accommodations. Photos COURTESY ALOFT HOTEL

aloft hotel

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lewis JOHNSON photography

lewis JOHNSON photography

from coast to city to country

Located in the city center, just steps from downtown Tallahassee and Florida State University, sits this brilliant sapphire landmark. As Tallahassee’s newest luxury hotel, Four Points by Sheraton has made every effort to make Florida’s capital city a more eco-friendly destination. Here, you and your guests will enjoy the delicious convenience of onsite catering in the resort’s ballroom by night and then be able to dive into the cool, crisp pool by day. With more than 150 rooms that are the finest in accommodations, your entire guest list is welcome to join in on the fun. Photos by lewis johnson photography and

four points by sheraton

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Where Dreams Take Flight WEDDING CEREMONIES & RECEPTIONS

| REHEARSAL DINNERS | BRIDESMAIDS LUNCHEONS

3700 G OLDEN E AGLE D RIVE , T ALLAHASSEE , F LORIDA | 850.893.7700 | 40 2014

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GOLDENEAGLECC . ORG

A Country Escape.

Elegant estates lined with giant oaks.

Vibrant, fragrant gardens. Lush, rolling hills.

Pure 7 studios

Wandering through the countryside of Northwest Florida is like taking a trip back in time. The land itself exudes Old World romance at every turn. Awe-inspiring venues emerge from the deep, jeweltoned hues of nature. Here, you’ll have the luxury of deciding between an intimate, secret garden-inspired ceremony and an impressive, plantation-style soirée. Modern styles derived from rustic charm, Frenchcountry heritage and vintage designs are perfectly aligned with these breathtaking backdrops. Embracing a strong allegiance to natural beauty and understated elegance, Northwest Florida’s spectacular country landscapes offer couples a timeless scene to fit with the most enchanting of love affairs.

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VIZULIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

TERRI SMITH PHOTO

FAIRYTALES WEDDING & SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES

from coast to city to country

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TERRI SMITH PHOTO

TERRI SMITH PHOTO TERRI SMITH PHOTO

These lush and elegantly manicured grounds are as rich in history as they are in the jeweled hues of the hundreds of azaleas that burst into color each spring. With its pristine natural backdrop, crystal-clear reflection pools and charming cottages, intimacy and relaxation are the true foundation of this venue. Guests have room to roam and plenty to discover. For evening events, the grounds are highlighted with landscape lighting, offering a dramatic effect. For rental reservations, Fairytales Wedding & Special Event Services can arrange all the details. Photos by TERRI SMITH PHOTO and VIZULIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

MACLAY GARDENS

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Golden Eagle’s impressive country club venue is the perfect setting for a classically inspired celebration. After exchanging vows lakefront in the open air or under the shade of majestic pines, relax inside with family and friends as the staff of this all-inclusive venue serves up culinary delights. Located in the northern corridor of Tallahassee, these manicured grounds combined with the club’s traditional architecture create an easily personalized, elegant scene worthy of the entire day’s activities. Photos by Michelle Griggs

golden eagle country club

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The old saying has it right; beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. If the natural quality of untouched, Southern countryside is what defines beauty to you, then Honey Lake Plantation Resort & Spa, located in small-town Greenville, is something you simply can’t afford to miss. Surrounded by 4,700 acres of lush land, including an 80-acre spring-fed private lake, the resort at Honey Lake represents tranquility at its finest. The romantic, rustic atmosphere that characterizes this unique property has been delicately incorporated in all its finishing touches, including the enchanting antique stainedglass windows illuminating the chapels walls. Photos COURTESY HONEY LAKE PLANTATION

honey lake planatation

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At Honey Lake, skilled professionals expertly coordinate everything from the rehearsal dinner to Sunday’s brunch. Guests can reserve any of the 34 onsite overnight accommodations, including many cottages with multiple bedrooms, making this venue the ideal location for a destination wedding. With its succulent, Southern onsite catering and plenty of outdoor activities for the fellows, it’s hard to believe this classic country retreat is less than 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Tallahassee. Photos by J&J WEDDINGS

honey lake planatation

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HONEY LAKE PLANTATION PURE 7 STUDIOS

Back to Nature Fresh is always alluring. If you’re feeling a tad uninspired, take a cue from nature by streamlining your ceremony to the bare essentials. Combine newly cut flowers with a lush yet simple color palette to help blend the scene seamlessly. If an outdoor ceremony is out of the question, consider bringing nature inside. For an earthy, coastal celebration, try filling mason jars with sand and flickering candlelight for a relaxed glow.

Photos by Jan Ethridge photography, Pure 7 Studios and COURTESY HONEY LAKE PLANTATION

JAN ETHRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY

getting inspired

nature

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It’s All in the Details.

A carefree, whirlwind romance may have led you to this moment, but if you’re in search of the perfect wedding, the pace of your life is about to pick up. There are the invitations to think of, venue choices, floral arrangements and bridal gifts.

Not to mention finding the most delicious caterer, a rocking band, and, of course, the dress.

In this land of perpetual wedding planning, research is key. Finding trustworthy vendors will make this process soar by.

Truth is, your wedding is more than just the sum of its parts.

When fate brings you vendors who understand that, and are as eager about the big day as you, then the stars have truly aligned.

MARI DARR~WELCH

In Northwest Florida, we know who’s who. Let us point you in the right direction.

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DeAR WESLEYANN HELLO MISS LOVELY

HELLO MISS LOVELY DeAR WESLEYANN

making it happen

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HELLO MISS LOVELY

ETHERIDGE IMAGES

After the vows are exchanged and the cake is sliced, there are only three tangible and enduring objects you’ll be able to take with you as a memento of your special day — the photographs, the rings and your dress. In years to come, these items will become tokens of love to you and your family. At Dream Gowns, located in sunny Panama City, they’re skilled in selecting timeless silhouettes for brides and bridesmaids that complement the individual, instead of blindly adhering to fleeting trends.

With a blend of lace and grace, Dream Gowns has put at ease the minds of beautiful brides everywhere, one gleaming frock at a time. Photos

dream gowns

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HELLO MISS LOVELY

ETHERIDGE IMAGES

DeAR WESLEYANN

ETHERIDGE IMAGES

HELLO MISS LOVELY

DeAR WESLEYANN

making it happen

DeAR WESLEYANN

Across Florida’s colorful Panhandle, Dream Gowns has become the stuff of local legend for fusing the beloved, personal touch found in petite shops with the versatility of big city vendors. Whilst there, indulge in designers like Mori Lee, Maggie Sottero, Allure and innumerable others. The staff’s eye for fit and flair and the vastness of their collection — with over 1,500 gowns to choose from — lands Dream Gowns in a league that is very much all its own. Photos by Dear Wesleyann,

dream gowns

Etheridge Images and Hello Miss Lovely

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making it happen

Attention to detail is what makes an already special wedding day truly magical. With an undeniable flair for bringing romance to life, John Gandy Events is perfectly poised to coordinate all of your matrimonial activities — leaving you free to delight in the day’s loving festivities completely worry free. Whether you’re aiming for rustic chic, Southern elegance or coastal charm, Gandy’s dedication to authentic style is unprecedented and his knowledge of a constantly evolving industry is utterly unmatched. Photos bY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

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From lighting to seating and signage to silverware, every aspect of your wedding day warrants thought and care. Lucky for you, there’s already someone out there who has all the answers — John Gandy Events. Gandy’s team has curated thousands of hand-picked design elements from which to choose. With their eye for style and on-trend mindset, you’ll be sure to find exactly what you’re searching for, ensuring a beautiful, memorable day for not only you, but for your guests, too. Photos by Black & Hue Photography

john gandy events

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MARI DARR~WELCH MARI DARR~WELCH

GWYNEMARKL PHOTOGRAPHY

JUBILEE PHOTOGRAPHY

BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE PAGE)

GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY

MARI DARR~WELCH

making it happen

In the heart of Sandestin sits Bistro Bijoux, a deliciously upscale dining and catering option. Bite after succulent bite, this coastal haven has garnered the ringing endorsement of local gourmets by pairing Southern hospitality with fine French cuisine in a tasteful setting. Now, Bistro Bijoux is bringing an extensive knowledge and a dedication to fresh, coastal cuisine off-site for receptions and events. Couples can seamlessly merge the mouthwatering aromatics of diligently crafted platters, artisan hors d’oeuvres and entrées with their special day. Photos by Brittnay Therese Photography, GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY, JUBILEE PHOTOGRAPHY

bistro bijoux

and MARI DARR~WELCH NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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A highly versatile venue, this restaurant is a perfect setting for a private reception or a buzzing rehearsal dinner.

Flush with both indoor and outdoor seating, Bistro Bijoux can accommodate up to 150 guests comfortably and is also well suited for a more intimate guest list. Cozied within the restaurant’s private yet elegant walls, friends can indulge in decadent seafood flavors, like the unique combination of oysters and brie or crawfish and corn beignets, and savor the Bistro’s assortment of exceptional French wine. Photos by kelly hardee photography and brittnay therese photography

bistro bijoux

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BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY

kelly hardee photography

kelly hardee photography

kelly hardee photography

making it happen

MARI~DARR WELCH BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY

A Flair for Vintage Nostalgia is a powerful thing.

Incorporating hints of historical touches [think Gatsby-esque] into a ceremony can lend a rich yet effortless ambiance to the festivities. Vibrant red lipstick, a delicate lace veil, muted dusty hues, softly pinned curls, smooth twinkling lights — subtle and enduring, these vintage inspired designs add a touch of luxury and elegance to an already memorable affair.

Photos by Pure 7 Studios, MARI DARR~WELCH and Brittnay Therese Photography

getting inspired

PURE 7 STUDIOS

history

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Imagine the exhilaration of slicing through a cobalt sky in pure, polished luxury. When time is of the essence, Nicholas Air’s services are a reliable alternative to the bustling atmosphere at big city airports and the sometimes unpredictable schedules of commercial airlines. With Nicholas Air, you will have access to a fleet that is five years or newer and the ability to use three different aircraft types. Whether they’re whisking away newlyweds to a romantic location or ensuring guests arrive on time, Nicholas Air’s elite jet service is renowned for providing quality transportation in a relaxed setting. Photos COURTESY NICHOLAS AIR

nicholas air

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COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

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COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

ALLIE HINE PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

making it happen

Maharaja's has been dazzling brides since 1977 with romantic, classical-inspired jewelry. Your life together officially starts when you slip on those two bands — so make sure they're the right ones. Equipped with expert advice and a vast selection, including designers like Henri Daussi, Hearts on Fire and Forevermark to name a few, this versatile jeweler is the suitable choice for any anxious groom-to-be. Photos BY ALLIE HINE photography AND COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

maharaja's

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SCOTT HOLSTEIN photography

SCOTT HOLSTEIN photography

making it happen

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SCOTT HOLSTEIN photography

The modern couple isn’t bound by tradition. It’s important to remember that your wedding day is your special day. Let your personality shine through by selecting tasteful items that represent something special to you and your fiancé. Sunset Shoes offers an array of footwear and clothing that can help you enjoy this fun, once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Looking forward to a laidback picturesque ceremony on the beach? Feel the sand between your toes in glistening flip-flops. Is a grassroots, countryside soirée more your scene? Cowboy boots it is, then. And don’t forget about the honeymoon, where you’ll need plenty of comfortable, yet stylish, options to choose from. Photos by scott holstein photography and COURTESY SUNSET LIFESTYLES

sunset Lifestyles

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ANDREW'S CATERING

Restaurateur Andy Reiss’ mouthwatering menus have been a hallmark in downtown Tallahassee for over 40 years. Bringing decades of culinary experience to Andrew’s Catering, Andy and his professional staff are constantly developing new and exciting menus that seamlessly fuse the richness of flavor and texture to complement the overall spirit of any event. With a fulltime event planner and catering director on staff, the Andrew’s team will make sure every detail of the big day is planned and executed to perfection. As a full-service caterer serving North Florida, Andrew’s Catering is well versed in handling any size group and menu style, from fun, casual finger fare to gourmet plated dinners served with élan. Photos by J&J WEDDINGS and courtesy andrew's catering

andrew’s catering

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ANDREW'S CATERING

ANDREW'S CATERING

ANDREW'S CATERING

J & J WEDDINGS

ANDREW'S CATERING

making it happen

Nestled in the shadows of Florida’s Capitol sits Andrew’s 228, an avant-garde dining option with a tasteful, metro vibe. Perfect for rehearsal dinners and small receptions — and, when you need to sneak away, a romantic dinner for two — this venue specializes in Modern Southern Cuisine. Designed to accentuate intimate conversation, Andrew’s 228 offers several dining areas that allow private events to enjoy the celebration at hand. Cheers. Photos COURTESY ANDREW’S 228

andrew’s 228

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“Before my experience with Dr. Rainey and his team, I didn’t have the confidence to smile. I am thrilled that I gave a real genuine smile on my wedding day.”

–Annette Broome Papp

221 E. 7th Avenue • Tallahassee, Florida 32303 850.385.3700 • www.DrRainey.com 72 2014

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making it happen

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Our atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation will help you to de-stress, re-energize and create balance in your life.

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resource guide Advertiser Index Aloft Tallahassee Downtown ��������������������������������������p.77 200 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 alofttallahassee.com, (850) 513-0313 Andrew’s Catering ����������������������������������������������������������� p. 8, 9 228 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 andrewsdowntown.com, (850) 222-3444 At Last Florals �������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 81 51 Yellow Jacket Ave., Sopchoppy, FL 32358 atlastflorals.com, (850) 519-2305 Avenue Sea ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 74 542 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-7542 B-Boy Productions ���������������������������������������������������������������p. 73 bboyproductions.com, (888) 825-0655 Bistro Bijoux ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 2 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach, FL 32550 bistrobijouxdestin.com, (850) 622-0760 Celebration Hall ������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 78 61 Topsail Village Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 thecelebrationhall.com, (850) 499-2652 Collins Vacations Rentals ��������������������������������������������p. 80 60 East Gulf Beach Drive, Eastpoint, FL 32328 collinsvacationrentals.com, (850) 927-5469 Coombs Inn �������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 80 80 Sixth St., Apalachicola, FL 32320 coombshouseinn.com, (850) 653-9199 Dream Gowns �����������������������������������������������������������������������p. 6, 7 619 Hwy 231, Panama City, FL 32405 shopdreamgowns.com, (850) 248-4696 Fairytales Wedding & Special Events Services ������������������������������������������������� p. 79 P. O. Box 180306, Tallahassee, FL 32318 fairytaleservices.com, (850) 524-1661 Four Points By Sheraton Downtown ��������������������p. 75 316 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 fourpoints.com/Tallahassee, (850) 422-0071 FSU Alumni Center ������������������������������������������p. 33, 34, 35 1030 W. Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304 one.fsu.edu/page.aspx?pid=702, (850) 644-2761 Golden Eagle ����������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 40 3700 Golden Eagle Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32312 goldeneaglecc.org, (850) 893-7700 Goodwood Museum & Gardens ����������������������������� p. 78 1600 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308 goodwoodmuseum.org, (850) 877-4202 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa �����������������������������������������������������������p. 10 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sandestinbeachhilton.com, (850) 267-9604 Honey Lake Plantation/ Williamson Group Company �����������������������������������������p. 3 1290 NW Honey Lake Road, Greenville, FL 32331 honeylakeplantation.com, (850) 948-2309

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John Gandy Events �������������������������������������������������������������p. 13 3463 Garber Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32303 johngandyevents.com, (850) 570-5999 Klassic Katering �������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 32 2207 Bannerman Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312 klassickatering.com, (850) 894-0423 Maharaja’s ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 50 105 W 23rd St., Panama City, FL 32405 shopmaharajas.com, (850) 763-4224 Nicholas Air �������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 16 P O Box 8889, Columbus, MS 39705 nicholasair.com, (866) 935-7771 Palms of Destin, The ����������������������������������������������������������p. 81 4201 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, FL 32541 palmsofdestin.com, (850) 351-0500 Pure 7 Films ������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 80 pure7films.com, (877) 865-PURE (7873) Rainey, Russell B, DMD ����������������������������������������������������p. 72 221 E 7th Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32303 drrainey.com, (850) 385-3700 Retreat At Bradley's Pond, The ������������������������������� p. 76 9002 Bradley Road, Tallahassee, FL 32309 bradleyspond.com, (850) 561-6328 Sage Spa ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 74 2709-2 Killarney Way, Tallahassee, FL 32309 sagespatallahassee.com, (850) 893-9944 Southwood Golf Club ������������������������������������������������������� p. 76 3750 Grove Park Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32311 southwoodgolf.com, (850) 942-4653 Sunquest Cruises/Solaris ���������������������������������������������p. 84 P. O. Box 6948, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sunquestcruises.com, (850) 650-2519 Sunset Shoes ���������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 83 9375 Hwy 98 W, Suite 3, Destin, FL 32550 sunsetshoesonline.net, (850) 837-5466 Vue on 30A ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 81 4801 W. Co. Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 vueon30a.com, (850) 267-2305 Woman's Club of Tallahassee ����������������������������������� p. 76 1513 Cristobal Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32303 womanscluboftallahassee.org, (850) 386-5966

Black & Hue Photography ��������������������������������������p. 58, 59 blackandhueproject.com Brittnay Therese Photography ���������������p. 60, 62, 63 brittnaytherese.com, (850) 461-6327 Callie Cardiner Photography �������������������������������p. 21, 31 calliegardiner.com Dear Wesleyann ��������������������������������������������p. 52, 53, 54, 55 dearwesleyann.com, (850) 708-1250 Etheridge Images �������������������������������������������������������������p. 53, 54 etheridge-images.com Gwynemark Photography ������������������������������������������������p. 61 gwynemarkphotography.com, (850) 376-3066 Hello Miss Lovely �����������������������������������������������������p. 52, 53, 54 hellomisslovely.com, (850) 774-3041 j&j weddings ������������������������������������������������������p. 34, 35, 48, 70 jandjweddings.com, (850) 933-6033 Jacqueline Ward Images ����������������������������������������������������p. 23 jacquelinewardimages.com, (850) 527-1205 Jan Ethridge Photography ������������������������������������p. 22, 49 jcethridgephotography.com, (850) 758-0873 Jubilee Photography ����������������������������������������������������������������p. 61 jubileephotography.com, (850) 459-7751 Kay Meyer Photography ������������������������������� p. 33, 34, 35 kaymeyerphotography.com, (850) 894-4529 Kelly Hardee Photography �����������������������������������������������p. 62 kellyhardeephotography.blogspot.com, (336) 997-1525 Lewis Johnson Photography ����������������������������������������p. 39 lejphotography.com, (850) 583-0040 Mari Darr~Welch: Modern Photojournalist ������������������p. 11, 28, 29, 31, 51, 61, 63 maridarrwelch.com, (850) 699-3403 Olimb Photography �������������������������������������p. 17, 28, 29, 30 olimbphotography.com Pure 7 Studios ��������������p. 1, 18, 19, 24, 25, 41, 49, 63 pure7studios.com, (877) 865-PURE (7873) Red Stone Photography ���������������������������������������������p. 20, 21 redstonephotos.com, (850) 585-5535

Wyndham Vacation Rentals ������������������������������������p. 4, 5 546 Mary Esther Cut-Off NW, Ste 3, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 wyndhamvacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/ florida/northwest-florida, (850) 301-3422

Sonja Revells Photography ����������������������������������������������p. 29 sonyarevell.com, (415) 913-9597

Photographer Index

Terri Smith Photo ����������������������������������������������������p. 11, 42, 43 terrismithphoto.com, (850) 321-5609

Alena Bakutis Photography �������������������������p. 26, 27, 31 alenabakutis.com, (850) 778-5370

Vizuliz Photography �����������������������������������������������������������������p. 42 vizuliz.com

Allie Hine Photography ��������������������������������������������������������p. 67 alliehine.com, (850) 319-2097

Woodland Fields Photography �������������������������p. 56, 57 woodlandfieldsphotography.com, (850) 559-1095

Scott Holstein Photography �����������������������p. 12, 68, 69 scottholsteinphoto.com, (352) 476-3279

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On the Town The Arts Calendar Social Studies The Buzz

Spotlight

An Arts Festival for All For 15 Years, Local Audiences Have Embraced FSU’s 7 Days of Opening Nights

By Florence Snyder

Seven Days of opening nights

L

egend has it that Seven Days of Opening Nights sprang full-grown from the head of Florida State University President Emeritus Sandy D’Alemberte.

But D’Alemberte rejects the Zeus-andMinerva story and wants festivalgoers to know that there is a Muse, and her name is Mary Champion, wife of John Champion, FSU’s president from 1965-69.

“Mary Champion loved and supported the arts,” D’Alemberte recalled. “When I became president, her husband came to see me and said, ‘Why can’t we start up the “Song Catcher” Artists’ Series again?’”

Kathy Mattea, who Champion was referwill perform Feb. 10, gathers songs ring to a Seminole tribal that speak to her tradition that began in Appalachian roots.

1921 with a performance by the “American March King,” John Philip Sousa, and his band. The Artists’ Series continued to bring uplifting and sometimes life-changing performances to town until 1991, when the program was killed in a spasm of budget-cutting.

“I already appreciated the extraordinary depth and breadth of our students and faculty in the arts,” said D’Alemberte. Inspired

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by the Champions, D’Alemberte decided that the Artists’ Series was an idea whose time had come again.

He tweaked the tradition for the 21st century, introducing the notion that visiting performers, writers and visual artists should teach students in their classrooms and perform with them on stage. “The deans were nervous at first,” D’Alemberte said. “They were afraid it would be coming out of their budgets. Far from being a drain on the deans, Seven Days quickly became a priceless recruiting tool for their schools and a source of pride to the locals.

One measure of Seven Days’ success since the inaugural year in 1999 is the stack of correspondence awaiting Christopher Heacox when he arrived in 2012 to take the reins as executive director of Seven Days.

“The arts is about creating dialogue with the community,” says Heacox, who figured his first order of business would be letting the community know he was in town and open to suggestions. He needn’t have worried. His inbox was already stacked with thoughts and wish lists and advice from an enormous community of friends and fans of Seven Days.

“What surprised me is the extreme passion people have for Seven Days,” said Heacox. “My job is to keep the dialogue open.”

How that dialogue is going is reflected in this season’s schedule, the first that Heacox has personally programmed in its entirety.

Heacox tips his hat to the memory of President Champion, who died in 2002, and Mary the Muse, who still lives in Tallahassee, with Itzhak Perlman’s performance in January, backed by the University Symphony Orchestra.

“Perlman was here 31 years ago, as part of the Artists’ Series, and also in 1973, the year I was born,” said Heacox.

Perlman’s all-Beethoven concert launches an astonishing run of 15 marquee programs in February and three more in the spring.

The wildly popular “Movie You Haven’t Seen Yet”, presented again this year by Tribeca Film Festival’s chief creative director Geoffrey Gilmore, is moving from the 380-seat Student Life Cinema to the 1,260-seat Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.

“It was always selling out and we were always having to disappoint hundreds of people,” said Heacox. “So we bought [new projection equipment] for Ruby Diamond,” to accommodate Tallahassee’s indie film fanatics.

More than a dozen of the Seven Days artists, including Perlman and Gilmore, have committed to speak to audiences and students. Others

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Seven Days of opening nights

»culture spotlight

Urban Bush Women

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»culture spotlight

OUR BANK IS BUILT ON A SOLID

FOUNDATION OUR

PERFORMANCE OUR

BANKERS OUR

CUSTOMERS coming early and staying late to work directly with FSU students include Pulitzer Prize-winning author and FSU alumnus Adam Johnson; dancer-choreographer Tere O’Connor; violinist Nicola Benedetti; jazz masters New York Voices; and writers Jane Springer and Matt Bondurant.

Performances for area K-12 students and a master class with Nnenna Freelon for young jazz vocalists are in the works.

There’s even a nod to FSU President Eric Barron’s “entrepreneurial university” initiative as Chicago-based musical-theatrical troupe eighth blackbird takes time out from teaching master classes to deliver a public “entrepreneurial lecture.”

In keeping with Seven Days’ commitment to teaching, Heacox emphasizes that student tickets aren’t just for Seminoles. Students of any age, from any school, are encouraged to take advantage of the generosity of Seven Days members and supporters, whose sponsorships help subsidize the heavily discounted student tickets — $10 for most events.

For the non-matriculating public, many events will set us back more than the cost of a movie. An orchestra seat for Grammywinning singer and guitar virtuoso Jonny Lang or Comedy Central’s Grandmaster of Rant, Lewis Black, goes for $75. That’s what the entire “gold ticket” season subscription cost in 1999. But it’s also less than what it costs to park at most venues where Itzhak Perlman is playing this year.

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OUR

PERFORMANCE

Scott Holstein

Centennial Bank is a financially sound,

Most of the marquee programs can be seen from a great seat for the price of a It wasn’t long after he pizza and a couple of beers. As a new became the executive father, Heacox is running short on sleep director that Christopher Heacox began hearing but long on commitment to Seven Days’ from Seven Days fans mission of building the next generation about what perforof audience. In planning for his first mances they wanted him season, his goal was to offer something to book. that would appeal to every taste and fit every budget.

An accomplished saxophone player, Heacox holds degrees from FSU’s College of Music and the University of Rochester’s Eastman School. He knows what it’s like to stand on a stage and bask in applause. But it’s the year-round process of making the trains run on time — and avoiding train wrecks — that truly captures his imagination. “I’m a business guy,” said Heacox in a deceptively simple explanation of what he does.

With a community as invested in Seven Days as Tallahassee is, Heacox can’t stand in line at the grocery store without being buttonholed by a festival fan who wants to offer encouragement and programming advice. He welcomes critical comments as much as praise.

For Heacox, Seven Days, and every day, is about dialogue. n

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OUR BANKERS

»culture Spotlight

MEET PATRICIA GRIFFIN

The Seven Days Lineup PATRICIA GRIFFIN,

VICE PRESIDENT SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER TALLAHASSEE

The most convenient way to order tickets for Seven Days events is online at tickets.fsu.edu. Tickets may also be ordered by phone at (850) 644-6500 or purchased in person at Florida State University’s Fine Arts Ticket Office in the lobby of the Fine Arts Building, located at the corner of Call and Copeland streets. A trip to the box office will save you service charges applied to online and telephone transactions. The box office is open Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Student tickets are $10, unless otherwise specified. A valid student ID must be presented in order to pick up student-priced tickets. One discounted ticket per ID is permitted.

Wednesday, Jan. 29 Itzhak Perlman and the University Symphony Orchestra The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner and Kennedy Center honoree fronts FSU’s classical music all-stars for a bedazzling evening of Beethoven. 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. SOLD OUT

A graduate of the Florida School of Banking, Leadership Tallahassee Class 25 and current president of The Rotary Club of Tallahassee Northside, Patricia Griffin has worked in the financial service industry for more than 20 years. Her in-depth knowledge and dedication to banking with a servant’s heart has earned the respect and loyalty of her clients. Those who have entrusted Patricia with their financial matters know that whenever they need her, she’s only a phone call away. “We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service,” she says. “We take the bank to the customer. Whatever their needs are.”

Tuesday, Feb. 4 L.A. Theatre Works presents ‘The Graduate’ Here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson. 8 p.m. at Turner Auditorium, Tallahassee Community College, $25–$35–$45 Thursday, Feb. 6 PRISM The College of Music is once again all in for an all-out assault on your senses.

Everything you’ve heard about this concert is true. 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $35 Friday, Feb. 7 The Irish Rovers 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $25–$40–$55 Saturday, Feb. 8 The Spring Quartet Featuring Esperanza Spalding, Jack DeJohnette, Joe Lovano and Leo Genovese. 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $40–$55–$70 Sunday, Feb. 9 eighth blackbird The Grammy-winning sextet performs “a musical tale of love and death, dream and delusion.” And that’s just half the show. 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $25–$35–$50

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Sunday, Feb. 9, and Monday, Feb. 10 Kathy Mattea The West Virginia native performs her Appalachian-centric songbook. Sunday performance at Pebble Hill Plantation is sold out. Monday’s performance, 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, is priced at $25–$35–$50.

Tuesday, Feb. 11, and Wednesday, Feb. 12 Urban Bush Women Company founder and Artistic Director Jawole Willa Jo Zollar partners with pianist George Caldwell for a “journey of music and movement” inspired by John Coltrane’s seminal work, “A Love Supreme.” 8 p.m. at Nancy Smith Fichter Dance Theater, $50 Wednesday, Feb. 12 Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band A tribute to Conga King Chano Pozo and trumpet legend Dizzy Gillespie.

7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $25–$35–$50 Thursday, Feb. 13 Nicola Benedetti The violin prodigy is accompanied by pianist Alexei Grynyuk for an evening of Beethoven, Prokofiev and Elgar.

7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $25–$35–$50 Friday, Feb. 14 Jonny Lang The young Grammy winner has played guitar with the gods, including Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana and B.B. King.

7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $45–$60–$75 Saturday, Feb. 15 Saturday Matinee of the Arts Creativity will be on display all day at

OUR CUSTOMERS MEET RANDY RAY

PASTOR RANDY RAY

PRESIDENT, NORTH FLORIDA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Nicola Benedetti

Poncho Sanchez

Lewis Black

eighth blackbird

this family-friendly arts event.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Tallahassee Museum. FREE Saturday, Feb. 15 Geoffrey Gilmore presents ‘A Movie You Haven’t Seen Yet’ The Santa Claus of Seven Days returns for his seventh visit, once again bringing a sack full of surprises for indie film fans. 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $35

Photos courtesy Seven Days of opening nights

Friday, Feb. 14, through Sunday, Mar. 2 ‘Monty Python’s Spamalot’ If your Valentine takes you to Jonny Lang on opening night of this Tony award-winning classic, count your blessings and don’t worry, because there will be a dozen more performances before the last curtain call at the Richard G. Fallon Theater, $20 Sunday, Feb. 16 New York Voices featuring the Florida State Vocal Jazz Ensemble 4 p.m. Opperman Music Hall, $40

Sunday, Feb. 16 Lewis Black The fiery comedian appears at 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. SOLD OUT Tuesday, Feb. 18 Matt Bondurant and Jane Springer The novelist and the poet join voices for an evening of literary magic. 7:30 p.m. at FSU Alumni Center Ballroom. $35 Tuesday, March 4 Nnenna Freelon and Earl Klugh 7:30 p.m. Opperman Music Hall.

SOLD OUT Tuesday, April 22 Becca Stevens Band 7:30 p.m. at The Carriage House at Goodwood Museum & Gardens, $35; $25 for Seven Days members.

For Pastor Randy Ray, president of North Florida Christian School, relationships matter.

At Centennial Bank, we think so too. That’s why our bankers have taken care of the Ray family and North Florida Christian School, helping to meet their financial needs for a long time. The peace of mind that comes with this long-term relationship allows Pastor Ray to focus his energy on touching student lives and equipping them to make a difference in the world.

“Matt Brown and Patricia Griffin added for us a factor that couldn’t be duplicated somewhere else,” says Pastor Ray. “Everyone has ATMs. But not everyone has them.”

Monday, April 28 Chanticleer: An Orchestra of Voices The New Yorker calls it “the world’s reigning male chorus.” 7:30 p.m. at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, $25–$35–$50

Want to Know More?

For complete information about the performances, exhibitions and ticket availability, visit sevendaysfestival.org. tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»culture ON THE TOWN

Finding His Voice At Age 50, Songwriter Grant Peeples ‘Revises’ his Resume to Include Singing, Too

By Lazaro Aleman

At 56, Grant Peeples figures if he continues writing and performing songs and poetry another 20-or-so years, he will yet have a career. The joke, of course, is that Peeples is already well along in his career — one where he’s made remarkable progress in short order.

In the little more than five years since the Tallahassee native and seventh-generation Floridian returned home from abroad and took up songwriting and performing full time, he has played at innumerable venues across the country; recorded five collections of original songs that have earned critical acclaim and ranked highly on folk/roots charts; and developed loyal followings in Tallahassee and elsewhere across the state and country.

Moreover, his last two records — “Okra and Ecclesiastics” and “Prior Convictions” — were recorded by Gurf Morlix, a Texasbased producer associated with such well-established folk/ country rock artists as Lucinda Williams, Robert Earl Keen and Mary Gauthier.

Authentic, original and socially/politically minded, Peeples describes himself as a “Leftneck,” a deeply rooted Southerner comfortable with both his cultural heritage and liberal leanings.

Peeples’ songs can be bitingly humorous (“Sunshine State” and “Summer Camp”), provocative and irreverent (“Patriot Act” and “Jesus Was a Revolutionary”), or lyrical and evocative (“Elisabeth” and “Liliana”). Often, they simply tell a story. But always the lyrics are spot-on, the gritty delivery effective, the intent serious and the

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aim true — whether his topic is love, politics, religion, relationships or the existential condition. Given his strong views and no-holdsbarred style, Peeples is bound to offend some. No one, however, can doubt his convictions or artistic integrity.

A wordsmith who discovered music at 15, Peeples had a brief go at songwriting in the heady atmosphere of Nashville of the ’70s.

It didn’t work out, however, and his journey to the present took a long and circuitous route. The one constant, though, remained his songwriting, which he largely kept under wraps.

In 1995, divorced, sobered and “free of all tethers,” as he puts it, he indulged a traveler’s fantasy and moved to a remote island off Nicaragua’s coast, where he essentially lived a Thoreauian existence for 11 years. Ironically, his goal of doing some serious songwriting there didn’t materialize.

“I learned something essential about creativity,” Peeples says.

“A business is a creative act. Building a house is a creative act.

Digging a well is a creative act. And by the end of the day, that sated pretty much everything I needed to do creatively.”

The 2000 Bush/Gore election turned his attention homeward and got his “I don’t make this stuff up.” Grant Peeples writing juices flowing again. It wasn’t writes and performs until 2006, however, that he returned to songs that reflect his Tallahassee and, at age 50, fully embraced life and times. his calling.

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»culture ON THE TOWN

“I haven’t worked an honest day since,” Peeples says.

His songs are pithy reflections on the New South, the times, the country’s state of affairs and his lifetime experiences. If his pictures of Southern folks and living are sometimes harsh and bleak, as in “My People Come From the Dirt” and “Real Country,” it’s because the songs are reactions to the banality and sentimentality he sees in much contemporary country music.

“I don’t make this stuff up,” Peeples says.

His poet’s voice Peeples found early. The challenge was finding his singing voice.

“I didn’t think I could sing,” he says. “I also bought into the paradigm of having others sing my songs. The whole idea of singing and performing, I had to learn to do. I’m still learning.

But I think I now know how to perform and connect with an audience.”

For singer/songwriters like himself, the Internet has been liberating.

“There was a day when, if you wanted to make a record, you had to seduce somebody who either had connections or money to get you into a studio,” Peeples says. “Now, if you’re a singer/ Grant Peeples’ performances include the RiverHawk Music Festival in Brooksville.

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songwriter, you can make a recording for a few thousand dollars that sounds better than anything you could have dreamed of making for tens of thousands of dollars 25 years ago.”

Paradoxically, the downside is the ease of record-making nowadays.

“There are so many of us doing it that the public is numbed by the onslaught,” Peeples says.

“A CD has become like a business card.”

His strategy for defining and distinguishing himself is to focus on those who understand what he’s about.

“I go out and find people who get what I’m trying to say and who think with the same symbology as me and appreciate what I appreciate,” Peeples says.

Festivals and home concerts are particularly fertile grounds for such listeners.

“I can pretty much tell you everybody at festivals and home concerts gets what I do,” he says.

“I’ve played a lot of house concerts where no one had ever heard of me or seen me on YouTube but they didn’t care, because the hosts had done their homework and found performers these people were going to get.”

Failing creativity — a potential hazard of middle-age artists — is not something that concerns him at this point.

“I’m still a 23-year-old kid getting started,” Peeples says. “I’m still defining who I am. I don’t have to live up to any past successes or awards.

Hell, Picasso was still turning out extraordinary stuff in his late 80s.”

Peeples, in fact, was working on a new record that was released last fall when he was interviewed.

“The songs are pretty much written, I’m just polishing and refining them,” he says. “I’m a huge reviser. I revise all the way into the studio.”

Will his new recording continue the introspective bent of “Prior Convictions”?

“Yeah, I think that’s the direction I’m moving in,” Peeples says, adding that he’s immersed himself in poetry and philosophy books the last several years.

Meanwhile, he continues touring and performing.

“If every night I play a show with 30 people, and three of them go on my mailing list, and I know whatever CD I make for the rest of my life, they’ll want to buy it, maybe by the time I’m 75 I’ll have a real career,” he says. n For more on Peeples, visit grantpeeples.com.

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Indians! in the Post Office 202 January–February 2014

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Find New Deal-Era Murals in the Old Tallahassee Post Office Building

By Sandra Starr More than 1,500 post offices nationwide have on their walls, usually above the postmaster’s office door, an enormous fine art mural depicting scenes of the history of the town or the state where it is located.

Tallahassee’s post office has moved, but a set of murals has remained on the site, which now houses the federal Bankruptcy Court. They were created by a winner of a national art competition created in 1934 under the Treasury Department’s Section of Painting and Sculpture.

The story goes like this: In the words of Dallan Wordekemper, the Federal Preservation Officer for United States Postal Service, and caretaker of this art; “President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal sponsored several art programs to help get people back to work and restore confidence in a nation facing 25 percent unemployment in 1933.

Unlike the Works Progress Administration/Federal Art Project, with which it often is confused, this [Post Office art] program was not directed toward providing economic relief. Instead, the art placed in Post Offices was intended to help boost the morale of people suffering the effects of the Great Depression.”

On March 17, 1941, Roosevelt stood on the steps of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and spoke with

pride of the fulfillment of his plan to fill these federal buildings with art by American artists, saying: “There was a time when the people of this country would not have thought that the inheritance of art belonged to them or that they had responsibilities to guard it. A few generations ago, the people of this country were often taught by their writers and by their critics and by their teachers to believe that art was something foreign to America and to themselves — something imported from another continent, something from an age which was not theirs — something they had no part in, save to go to see it in some guarded room on holidays or Sundays. But recently, within the last few years — yes, in our lifetime — they have discovered that they have a part.

They have seen in their own towns, in their own villages, in

The mural “Saturiba Receiving the French,” painted in 1939 as part of a national arts project (and described on page 200), can still be seen in the lobby of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court downtown.

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schoolhouses, in post offices, in the back rooms of shops and stores, pictures painted by their sons, their neighbors — people they have known and lived beside and talked to. They have seen, across these last few years, rooms full of painting and sculpture by Americans, walls covered with painting by Americans.”

“Artists competed anonymously in national and regional contests,” Wordekemper said. “After receiving a commission, an artist was encouraged to consult with the postmaster and other townspeople to ensure that the subject would be meaningful. More than 1,000 post offices across the continental United States continued to house this uniquely American art for people to enjoy as they go about their daily lives. Today, the murals and sculpture form a vital part of America’s national heritage.

Recognizing the importance of this collection, the United States Postal Service is making every effort to preserve and safeguard it for future generations. Also, to maintain the spirit of the section in placing artwork in Post Offices, postal policy provides for the relocation of these works into the new facility when a post office moves so the art can continue to enrich people during the normal course of their daily lives.”

This is how the Old Tallahassee Post Office, built in 1936, became today’s Bankruptcy Courthouse adorned with fine art murals.

According to Florida Memory, the location was originally the site of the first courthouse (1838–79), then the Leon Hotel (1883–1885), then a second Leon Hotel built in 1885 which burned in 1925, and later, a new post office and federal building beginning in 1935. It served as the main post office until the 1970s. In 1979, the courthouse was listed in the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Park Avenue

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Two other murals full of historical references and symbolism by Edward “Buk” Ulreich are also on display in Tallahassee: “Aborigine” (top) and “Osceola in Conference with Hernandez.”

tallahasseeMagazine.com

Photos this page and previous page by Carol M. Highsmith Photography, Courtesy U.S. General Services Administration, Public Buildings Service, Fine Arts Collection.

»culture THE ARTS

more murals online

Southeastern tribal people were forced to relocate accordHistoric District and is now occupied by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the Northern District of Florida. ing to Andrew Jackson’s Removal Act of 1830.

The “Old Post Office” was transferred from the Postal The series in Tallahassee was created by Eduard (Buk) Four hundred post Service to General Services Administration (GSA) in Ulreich in 1939 and is titled “The History of Florida.” office murals depict 1988. Eight murals were transferred as well and became American Indians as Ulreich was born in Austria in 1889 and moved with his part of the Bankruptcy Court interior. subject and symbol, family to New York as a child. He studied at the Kansas and they are the focus Standing frozen in time, post office murals hold on their City Art Institute and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine of an online “virtual” surfaces visual autobiographic essays of how America saw Arts. Compared to many other muralists choosing Indians exhibition that can be itself, considered its minorities and presented its heroes as subjects, Ulreich did his research homework but could accessed by visiting as it moved from a rural to an industrialized society. They not help but add his personal flourish of whimsy, abstracpostalmuseum.si.edu/ represent artistic styles unique to those years by artists, tion and romance to Florida’s history. indiansatthepostoffice. many trained in Europe, who utilized the post office walls Here’s a description of three of Ulreich’s murals: to prove their proficiency, some not concerned with historThe virtual exhibit is a “Bimini Island,” also referred to as “Aborigine,” is chockical accuracy. This confluence of the powerful local opinion collaborative project full of the artist’s concept of details of the lives of the of the Smithsonian of the townspeople, and the personal biases and varied hisorginal, pre-contact Southeastern people, even those not Institution’s National toric knowledge of the artists, created uniquely American living in today’s Florida. Ulreich correctly indicates at the Postal Museum, the statements of overlapping artistic and public expression.

National Museum of left that traders in canoes and rafts from offshore islands Many were about confrontations with the original the American Indian may have had a thriving commerce with peoples at lands Americans, the American Indians, becoming the visual (NMAI) and the United wherever the currents would take them. A merchant, perfoundations for the stereotypical “fierce and violent States Postal Service. haps, bearing fish, approachs a Mississippian-era warrior savage.” Some represented myths and legends about moving in from the right, who is “labeled” by the illustraAmerican Indians, perpetuating a gap that remains today, tion of a round object which is in fact an actual whelk-shell gorget created between who these original owners of the American landscape were, AD 1250–1350 by the inhabitants of Castalian Springs, Sumner County, and what we would like to imagine they were. Some were created by Tennessee. The object would have been worn as a necklace pendant as is American Indians themselves, reflecting their actual everyday lives. shown, by Mississippian cultures in the Southeast.

These are mostly located in Oklahoma post offices where much of the

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Between them, is the cacique (chief) whom the artist fancies as a seated Roman emperor, complete with cape, but holding an authentically shaped warrior’s mace, one identical to that in the actual gorget, and what appears to be an important bag, possibly filled with conch pearls. Columbus’ greed for gold and pearls became a driving force for his intrusion into the Arawakan-speaking islands, which was followed by slavery, disease and genocide, though the Taino lineage still endures through inter-marriage with Africans and Europeans. Columbus’ fellow opportunist, Juan Ponce de Leon, headed toward Bimini Island where a fountain of eternal youth was said to be found. He instead bumped into what he named La Florida, where he continued the search.

“Saturiba Receiving the French” is another seemingly convivial scene that, in truth, ends in tragedy. Saturiba (Saturiwa) was the leader of a large Timucuan-speaking chiefdom along the lower St. John’s River occupying a large swath of northern Florida from the Gulf to Atlantic, when they were first visited in 1562 by Protestant Huguenots fleeing from France. The visitors described the Native people as “goodly stature, mighty, faire and as well shapen … as any people in all the worlde, very gentill, curtious and of good nature …” The Huguenots took possession of “La Florida” and erected the column shown in the background holding the coat of arms of the Queen of France.

The muralist depicts Saturiwa’s effort to align with the French colonial governor René Goulaine de Laudonnière in 1564, hoping the French would help him defend his people from rival groups, an agreement Laudonnière eventually reneged on. The knowledge of a French fort being established there enraged the Spanish, who sent a large fleet to attack them in 1565, massacring all they could round up, both French and Indian. It is thought that this kind of colonization rivalry as well as the diseases it brought, was the reason for the demise of the Timucua-speaking Saturiwa peoples.

In mural scene “Osceola in Conference with Hernandez,” Ulreich portrays what appears to be a friendly visit on Oct. 24, 1837 under a white flag of truce (not a calumet pipe as is depicted floating the sky) by Osceola, Maskoki-Creek warrior in his pursuit of a peace negotiation with Brig. General Joseph Hernandez of the U.S. Army. His tribal council as seen in the left background had agreed to the overture. An imminent deception is hinted by the evidence of armed soldiers behind the curtain on the General’s side. The result of this attempt for peace near St. Augustine was met with the ambush of Osceola, other headmen and about 80 warriors, who were forced to walk to their imprisonment at Fort Marion in St. Augustine.

Within two months, Osceola, then ill, was shipped to Fort Moultrie, S.C. where he died a natural death. Osceola was then decapitated by his attending army doctor, who possibly kept the head to study or as war booty. The present location of his head is unknown, according to “Osceola’s Legacy,” written by Patricia Riles Wickman. n

See it for yourself The public can view the murals of Eduard “Buk” Ulreich in the lobby of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court when it is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The display includes a vignette area explaining the history of the paintings. Because it is a federal building, there is security screening and no photography is allowed. The courthouse is located downtown at 110 E. Park Ave.

(From left to right) Dolly Evans; Darlene Syvertsen; Thomas Harrison, CEO Tallahassee Primary Care Associates; Julia Leland, Laboratory Technician; and Paul Watts, COO Electronet Broadband Communications

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Tallahassee Magazine presents its 4th Annual Top Salon of Tallahassee event

PRESENTING SPONSOR: RUSSELL B. RAINEY, D.M.D.

FEBRUARY 22, 2014 | 6PM AT THE UNIVERSITY CENTER CLUB Thank you for your nominations! Thirteen of the area’s most popular salons have been selected to compete for the title of Tallahassee’s Top Salon! Now the competition begins.

Competing salons will make over a model, and the transformations will be unveiled in a runway show. The salons are featured on the following three pages. A panel of judges and all attendees will cast votes to determine the Top Salon of Tallahassee.

Tallahassee’s Top Salon wins an advertising campaign developed by Rowland Publishing and a yearlong ad campaign in Tallahassee Magazine. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the winner’s charity of choice.

Tickets are $50 and include one drink coupon, heavy hors d’oeuvres and automatic entry to win some great prizes and getaway packages!

Come ready to bid on this year’s live and silent auction items.

There will be something for everyone!

To purchase tickets visit

TALLAHASSEEMAGAZINE.COM/TOP-SALON Hurry as tickets are limited, and we will sell out.

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

T a l l a h a s s e e

Plastic Surgery Clinic & Physicians’ Skin Care Clinic

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PRESENTING SPONSOR: RUSSELL B. RAINEY, D.M.D.

Randazzle’s Hair Company

NOMINEES

Model makeovers revealed on February 22 at The University Center Club. To purchase your tickets visit tallahasseemagazine.com/top-salon. Photos by Kay Meyer

Kiersten Smith Hair & Beautyy

Red Hots Salon Joanna Francis Living Well Foundation

Tryst Backpack Program

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NOMINEES JS Hair Lounge

PRESENTING SPONSOR: RUSSELL B. RAINEY, D.M.D.

Ardan’ss Salon Ardan

Progressive Pediatric Developmental Center

Chelsea Salon 210 January–February 2014

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Millennium

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tallahassee

PRESENTING SPONSOR: RUSSELL B. RAINEY, D.M.D.

NOMINEES Fuel

So Pure Salon

Model makeovers revealed on February 22 at The University Center Club. To purchase your tickets visit tallahasseemagazine.com/top-salon. Photos by Kay Meyer

Dream State Salon

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Lauren

Envy Salon tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»culture best bets

Resolve to have fun in the New Year. // compiled by staff

events

January 31 Don your most festive purple ensemble and head over to the Tallahassee Automobile and Collectibles Museum for a celebration with a purpose.

Enjoy dancing, live music, photo booths, food and prizes all for the benefit of local Alzheimer’s patients. You will even learn a new dance — the Purple Craze Shuffle, choreographed for this event!

Tickets are $35 before the event, $40 at the door, and all proceeds go to Alzheimer’s Project, Inc., a United Way agency with 22 years of service to Tallahassee and the surrounding communities. The event runs from 7:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Contact James Smith at james@alzheimersproject.org for more information.

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photo by Scott holstein (horse) and courtesy Alzheimersproject.org

Purple Craze

events

Tallahassee’s Top Salon February 22 It’s going to be a beautiful night as 13 of the city’s favorite salons compete for the title of 2014 Top Salon. Each salon has one day to complete a head-to-toe makeover of their selected model, who will then be judged on their technique and the most dramatic before-and-after change.

Thor was found tied to a tree in Jefferson County and brought to Triple R Horse Rescue.

events

Have a Heart 4 Horses

The event will be held at FSU’s University Center Club, and the $50 ticket includes a drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres in addition to the night’s entertainment. Those attending will also be entered to win some great prizes and getaway vacations. For more information, visit tallahasseemagazine.com.

events

February 8 Celebrate Valentine’s by showing some love to the

Sixth Annual Oscar Party

This year, the event will be held at Dovers Eagle Hill from 3 to 8 p.m.

Tickets are $60 or two for $100 and includes a drink ticket and commemorative T-shirt. They can be purchased at triplerhorserescue.org.

March 2 Join the FSU College of Motion Picture Arts for a fabulous evening celebrating the best of Hollywood at the Film School’s Sixth Annual Oscar Party.

Come and share in the glitz and glamour with other Tallahassee film lovers. Good drinks, tasty food and a film-themed silent auction will be part of the fun.

horses at Triple R Horse Rescue’s third annual fundraiser. Proceeds help save mistreated, neglected and abandoned horses from around Florida. Your ticket could feed a starving horse and help it find a loving home. At the event, you and your special someone can relax by the light of the bonfire while you are treated to dinner, music and a chance to bid at an impressive silent auction.

events

For more information call the Film School at (850) 644-0453.

Red Hills International Horse Trials March 6–9 Tallahassee hosts this world-class event every year at Elinor Klapp-Phipps Park. Thousands come to watch riders compete in dressage, cross-country jumping and stadium jumping. This year, Red Hills will unveil its new cross-country course. The event is equal parts entertaining and educational, with environmental and equine exhibits.

There will also be food and shopping.

The event runs Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Red Hills suggest a $15 donation per adult per day or a $25 donation for all three days. Find more information by calling (850) 580-4020 or visit rhht.org.

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»culture CALENDAR // Compiled by Alejandra Nirenberg

Jan. 10

Contra Dance The Tallahassee Senior Center knows how to boogie down. This fun and energetic social is perfect for learning new dance moves. Comfortable shoes are a must! $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 students. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 7:30–10:30 p.m. Call Vicki Morrison at (850) 878-6280. tallydancer.com

Jan. 18

Tallahassee Symphony Open Rehearsal Get a taste of how music is made at a dress rehearsal of the TSO before its “Suite Sounds” concert that evening. The event is family friendly with kids’ activities, refreshments will be served 30 minutes before the rehearsal and you may have a chance to interact with Conductor Darko Butorac and orchestra members during breaks. FREE. Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, FSU Campus. 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. tallahasseesymphony.org/education-and-community

Jan. 18

‘Suite Sounds’ The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra will be accompanied by acclaimed pianist Alexander Schimpf for an unforgettable night of music. Indulge your ears in dramatic compositions from Strauss, Mozart, Tchaikovsky and Mahler. $34–$47. Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, FSU Campus. 8–10 p.m.

Contact Amanda Padgett at (850) 224-0461. tallahasseesymphony.org

Jan. 25

THANK YOU…

to Wish Upon a Star’s generous event sponsors who are making the difference in the lives of children in North Florida.

Tallahassee Fitness Festival Get ready for a day jam-packed with information about health, fitness and beauty. There are more than 150 vendors, providing free health screenings and product samples. Kids younger than 12 are free, and they can enjoy the Kids Korner, with presentations and physical activities. $5. Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

(850) 222-0200, tallyfitnessfest.com

Jan. 27 Esposito Lawn & Garden Center

Anderson Columbia Co., Inc.

Matt Bryan

Anfield Consulting

McNeill Plumbing / Cole Couture

Facing Quincy

BB&T Wealth

Merrill Lynch

John Gandy Events

Ben Gantt – Northwestern Mutual

Michael Rayboun

Marpan

Brian Barnard’s Flooring America

Monica Rodriguez

Mary Mica Designs

Capital Regional Medical Center

North Florida Pediatrics

On the Rocks Bartending

Certus Knowledge

Pennington P.A.

Party Party Party

Chandler Properties

Red Elephant

Photo Fun Booth

Chris and Jessica Geib

Red Hills Powersports

Red Hills Enterprises

Drs. Chaney, Couch and Grooters Family Dentistry

Rowe Roofing

Red Hills Quail Forever

Florida League of Cities Florida Lobby / Buigas and Associates FUBA HCA North Florida Division Heffley & Associates Hopping Green & Sams Jimmy and Josie Gustafson Junious Brown Kiki Dunton & John Hugill Live! in Tallahassee Mark Friedman – Friedman Financial Advisors

Silver Digital Media

Shutter Pop Photo

Superior Painting

Silver Lining Linens

Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center

St. Peter’s Anglican Church

Target

Talquin Portable Restrooms, Inc

The Corums and The Wilsons The Hour Glass & South East Eye Specialists Tim Meenan

The Front Porch Top Hat Limo & Sedan Service

Tricia Montgomery Therapy, LLC

Triple Creek Nursery / Baker Landscape and Irrigation

Aaron Joseph and Company

Wilson Dean

American Audio Visual

Wine Warehouse

Capital Ice Company

Wm. Lamb & Son

Dover Farm

Ziffer Stansberry

Every year, on average, Children’s Home Society of Florida helps make a positive difference in the lives of nearly 5,000 children and families. Your generous support ensures as many children as possible are getting the support and care they so desperately need — and rightly deserve. On behalf of the children and families we serve, thank you for making the needs of children a priority — you have helped to make our children’s wishes come true!

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Unity 9 Concert: Alzheimer’s Stories The Tallahassee Community Chorus and the FAMU Concert Choir combine forces for this annual event. The concert pairs visual images with music to create an emotional portrait of patients and their caregivers coping with Alzheimer’s. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $5 students. Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, FSU Campus. 8–10 p.m. (850) 597-0603, tcchorous.org

Jan. 27

‘Bring It On’ This hilarious musical tells the story of cheerleading challenges and the unlikely bonds that form through extreme competition. Cheer along to the sassy tale of friendship, forgiveness and determination. $39.75–$79.60.

Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, 505 W. Pensacola St. 7:30 p.m.

(850) 222-0400, tlccc.org

Feb. 1

Daddy Daughter Dance Daddies and their little (and not-so-little) girls can enjoy an evening of fun together at this ninth annual dance sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tallahassee Northside. There’s be dancing, refreshments, a special performance by World Ballet and photos galore. Also available before the dance is a Diamond Dinner at the Hotel Duval. $50 per couple, $15 for additional girls. The Moon 1105 E. Lafayette St. 6–9:30 p.m. Leila Shuffler at (850) 212-3855, rotaryddd.com

Feb. 7–9

North Florida Home Show If it’s in the house, you’ll find it at this 22nd annual event. Vendors will be on hand showcasing new homes and construction, remodeling, landscaping, furnishing, lighting, home services … the list goes on and on. Fri noon–7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $7, children under 16 FREE. Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. Contact Bob Snyder at (772) 631-7920, eastcoastshows.com

THE FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE of MOTION PICTURE ARTS

Feb. 7–9, 14–16

‘Venus in Fur’ Theatre Tallahassee’s Coffeehouse presents a Tony-nominated, twoperson play about masochism, dominance and the balance of power. This play contains explicit adult material, so leave the kids at home. $15 adults, $10 seniors and government employees, $5 students. Theatre Tallahassee, 1861 Thomasville Road. Fri–Sat. 8–10 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. (850) 224-8474, theatretallahassee.org

COME JOIN US

Feb. 8, 12

‘Rusalka’ Head to the cinema for a screening of this romantic fairy tale opera. Renée Fleming’s sweet love songs are the highlight of the Metropolitan Opera’s show. $24 adults, $22 students and seniors, $18 children 3 to 11. Regal Movie Theater, 1501 Governors Square Blvd. Wed 6:30 p.m., Sat 12:55 p.m.

(850) 878-7836.

Feb. 9

March 2, 2014 Join the College of Motion Picture Arts for an evening of Oscars, food, drinks and fun.

Contact Fred Salancy at 850-644-3911 or fsalancy@film.fsu.edu.

Forgotten Coast Chef’s Sampler Apalachicola Bay hosts some of the most innovative chefs to produce a culinary and artistic event. Local shopkeepers and designers decorate each table in a unique style, from elegant to artistic and funky. $60.

Fort Coobs Armory, 4th Street and Avenue Drive 6–8p.m. (850) 653-9414, apalachicolabay.org

Feb. 14–15

‘AIM for a CURE’ Join former Florida State Defensive Coach Mickey Andrews and be part of the inaugural “Aim for a Cure” Sweetheart Banquet and Sporting Clays Event to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Friday night’s Valentine’s Day festivities include dinner, entertainment, speeches and a silent auction. On Saturday morning, four-person teams will shoot the professionally designed course at Honey Lake Plantation, with lunch and awards ceremony afterward. For more information, contact Jim McCarthy at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (904) 733-3560 or jmccarthy@cff.org.

Feb. 14–15

University Philharmonia Talented undergraduate students wow the crowd with sweeping, cinematic music. Come listen as the young musicians accompany faculty soloists and the winner of the Young Artist Competition. $9 adults, $6 seniors and non-FSU students, FREE for FSU students. Opperman Music Hall at the Kuersteiner Music Building, 114 Copeland St. 9 p.m. Call Wendy Smith at (850) 644-4774.

Your choice of a one-hour facial or massage plus a manicure, pedicure, spa lunch and a box of chocolates for $130

Feb. 22

Mardi Gras Gala: Stubbs’ Educational Foundation Annual Variety Extravaganza The Stubbs’ Educational Foundation invites you to enjoy dinner, live music, 50/50 cash drawing and a silent auction, all to support music education.

Be sure to dress in your best black tie attire. $60. Tallahassee Automobile Museum, 6800 Mahan Drive. 6 p.m. Contact Martha Stubbs at (850) 321-5656. stubbseducationalfoundation.webs.com.

NEW LOCATION: 2964 Wellington Circle (off Kerry Forest Parkway) 850.893.3033 atouchofclasssalonspa.com tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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»culture CALENDAR

our mission is: HIGH STYLE with

Feb. 23

The Tallahassee Bach Parley: ‘Crossroads of Europe’ Experience 17th- and 18th-century music with Tallahassee Bach Parley as they perform Baroque compositions with period instruments. The musicians give the audience an opportunity to experience authentic music from an era long ago. $10 suggested donation. Saint John’s Episcopal Church, 211 N. Monroe St. 3 p.m. Contact Valerie Aresnault at (850) 224-8025. tallahasseebachparley.org

March 1

heart, no attitude orSTICKER SHOCK

St. George Island Charity Chili Cook-off Prepare your taste buds. The day of chili activities includes a 5K Red Pepper Run, auction, Miss Chili Pepper and Miss Hot Sauce contests, and taste tests. Proceeds benefit the St. George Island Volunteer Fire Department and First Response. $5. Island Firehouse, 324 E. Pine Ave. Fri 5–7 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 927-2753, apalachicolabay.org

March 8

1817 T H O M A S V I L L E R D , ST E 5 2 0 (NEXT TO WHOLE FOODS) • 8 5 0 . 76 5 . 6 2 2 4

HOME H OME DECOR, DECOR, D DESIGN ESIGN AND AND GIFTS WITH A VINTAGE FLAIR

‘Romantic Jewels’ Cello sensation Colin Carr will perform works from Schumann and Mendelssohn with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra. As an extra special treat, internationally renowned David Danzmayr will be the guest conductor. $34–$47. Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, FSU Campus. 8 p.m. Contact Amanda Padgett at (850) 224-0461. tallahasseesymphony.org/concertsand-events

March 29

Springtime Tallahassee Festival Celebrate the freshly blooming flowers and longer days of sunshine at this fun festival. The whole family can enjoy food, arts and crafts, and the Grand Parade. There will also be live music throughout the day. FREE. Downtown Tallahassee. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Call Jessica Brown at (850) 224-5012. springtimetallahassee.com

April 19

Wakulla Wildlife Festival The annual outdoor celebration features nature activities, tours, art, fine food and music. Enjoy live music and an art show at the lodge.

Premium guided tours will be ongoing until 9:30 p.m. $6 vehicle donation, $15 premium guided tour. Wakulla Springs, 465 Wakulla Park Drive. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Contact Jeff Hugo at (850) 561-7286. wakullawildlifefestival.com

Peculiar Goods

» save the date

Pets and Their People

215 East 7th Ave. Tallahassee, FL 32303 850.425.4663 facebook.com/PeculiarGoods 216 January–February 2014

Featuring antique and vintage furniture and accessories, plus: Archipelago and Voluspa Candles » Design Legacy Furniture & Accessories » Coyuchi Linens » P.J. Harlow Loungewear » Dash & Albert Rugs

tallahasseeMagazine.com

March 15 Hey, Fido! Make sure your person

knows about this annual event, to be held at Proctor Subaru, at 1707 Capital Circle N.E. You can have your photo taken with your human family — and it might just appear in Tallahassee Magazine. In addition, there will be on-site adoptions, demonstrations and informational booths galore.

Calling All Pets! …and Their People Saturday, March 15 • 9a.m.–3p.m.

All Pets (and their people) are invited to Tallahassee Magazine’s tenth annual Pets and Their People event. Stop by Proctor Subaru to have a photo taken by Tallahassee Magazine with an opportunity to be featured in the May/June issue!

But that’s not all…

There will be treats, demonstrations, giveaways and more from these vendors and others:

Chance to win a pet friendly staycation

Giving away gifts and prizes

Serving cupcakes

With proceeds going to the Leon County Humane Society

Holding on-site pet adoptions

Proctor Subaru • 1707 Capital Circle NE • Tallahassee

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Local Company

Local People

Local Sales and Service

• Copy • Print • Scan www.copyfax2000.com 850-671-6663

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January / February 2014

The Women of Alpha Phi Benefit the Tallahassee Memorial Heart & Vascular Center In October, the dynamic women of the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi at Florida State University hosted more than 650 guests for the Third Annual Red Dress Gala, Alpha Phi’s signature philanthropic event. It was Florida State University’s Parents Weekend and families, sisters and community members converged for an evening of fellowship, food, live music, silent and live auctions to raise funds for the Tallahassee Memorial Heart & Vascular Center. “It’s amazing to _Xm\ g\fgc\ Òp `e ]ifd Xcc fm\i k_\ Zflekip kf Y\ _\i\ in support of women’s heart health and Alpha Phi,” said Amanda Paul, Vice President of Marketing, Alpha Phi.

very helpful in raising public awareness of this major health problem that affects women, and the money you raise will go a long way to help prevent and treat this condition in our community. I am very honored to be here,” said Dr. Ghai.

Members of the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi at Florida State University

Speaking of Alpha Phi’s philanthropic future, Katie Breuning said, “Being a senior, I have had the privilege and honor to be a part of Alpha Phi’s Red Dress Gala for 3 years, and just looking back now at how much our philanthropy has grown and the impact we’ve truly had on our community is indescribable. I look forward to coming back a year from now, 2 years from now, 10 years from now, and seeing how much we continue to do and how much we continue to impact our community.”

The keynote speaker was Chiles High School senior Katherine Cox who has survived congenital heart disease resulting in multiple open heart surgeries and The TMH Foundation will receive $16,500 from this many other trials. As an infant, Katherine’s parents, p\XiÈj I\[ ;i\jj >XcX n_`Z_ ]lcÑccj 8cg_X G_`Èj gi\m`flj Jill and Clifton, learned she would need open heart commitment of $25,000, naming the Cardio Pulmonary 2013 Alpha Phi Red Dress Gala Guests surgery about every 5 to 8 years. However, because Care Unit waiting room in Tallahassee Memorial’s Heart of the advances in research and technology, she may & Vascular Center. The other half will go to the Alpha Phi never again have open heart surgery as more and Foundation to fund scholarships for Alpha Phi sisters and more transcatheter procedures are introduced. “As women’s heart health initiatives such as their annual Katherine spoke of the medical advances that have Heart to Heart grant program. The TMH Foundation was positively affected her quality of life, I was awestruck the recipient of the 2013 $50,000 Heart to Heart grant.

Yp k_\ ZfeÑ[\eZ\ Xe[ gf`j\ k_`j pfle^ cX[p gi\j\ek\[ “This relationship between Alpha Phi and Tallahassee before a captivated crowd. She is one of the brightest Memorial is extraordinary and will have far reaching and most dynamic people I have ever met, regardless Keynote Speaker Katherine Cox – Heart Disease Survivor effects in terms of lives touched in the Big Bend of age,” said Lisa Mullee, Director of Cardiovascular Region,” said Aaron Kinnon, Director of Development, TMH Foundation.

Services, Tallahassee Memorial Heart & Vascular Center.

He continued, “These women are passionate about working together for 9\]fi\ `ekif[lZ`e^ BXk_\i`e\# 8bXj_ >_X`# D%;%# 9fXi[ :\ik`Ñ\[ Cardiologist, spoke of the devastating effects of heart disease in women – many of which can be prevented with healthy lifestyle changes and regular cholesterol and blood pressure checks. “What a tremendous job you women have done raising awareness of heart disease. Events like this are

the good of others, and the organizational and development skills they exhibit will take them far in whatever careers they choose. Furthermore, each class is training and developing the women behind them, and the philanthropic partnership Alpha Phi is forging with the TMH Foundation will have profound and lasting outcomes to the people in our community.”

Alpha Phi Foundation — THANK YOU! As recipients of the Alpha Phi Foundation’s 2013 Heart to Heart grant of $50,000, the TMH Foundation, Tallahassee Memorial Heart & Vascular Center, and Leon County Emergency Medical Services are in the process of training 600 women in hands-only CPR. Each participant leaves with a training kit and a goal of training 3 other people and providing life-saving skills to approximately 1800 people in the Tallahassee community.

Aaron Kinnon, Director of Development, TMH Foundation; Kaley Keen, Ivey Rooney, Katie Breuning and Amanda Paul of the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi at FSU; Paula Fortunas, President/CEO, TMH Foundation; Lisa Mullee, Director of Cardiovascular Services, Tallahassee Memorial Heart & Vascular Center. tallahasseeMagazine.com January–February 2014

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Erin Petscher “Curtains for a Cause,” inaugurated in 2012, is now an officially-designated Valentine’s Day annual event to raise funds for the Florida State University College of Medicine’s Brian Jackson Dystonia Research and Discovery Program and its clinical partner, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. The FSU College of Medicine and TMH are developing a comprehensive research, clinical, and education program with the ultimate goal of discovering effective treatments, therapies, and – ultimately – a cure for Dystonia.

The 2014 “Curtains” production is the award-winning, highlyacclaimed musical revue, “Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits.” Written by Gerard Alessandrini, this four-time winner of the Drama Desk Award is a zany and satirical tribute to some of Broadway’s biggest hits and spotlights Broadway shows and stars such as Carol Channing, Chita Rivera, Barbara Streisand, and Mandy Pantinkin in ways you have never seen them before.

Mark your calendars NOW for February 14, 2014, and make your advance reservations by calling or e-mailing Mark Marple at the TMH Foundation: 850.431.4080, mark.marple@tmh. org or by visiting www.CurtainsForACause.com. Tickets are $100 per person and include a gourmet dinner, a rose for the ladies, champagne toast, gratuity, and the show.

Please join in the philanthropy and the fun as the University Center Club’s Futch Ballroom is transformed into a Broadway dinner theatre with an award-winning menu, a silent auction, and twenty-plus, knee-slapping, musical numbers. Just think how great it will be to have your Valentine’s Day plans “all set” for an elegant evening that will serve a life-saving cause.

OASIS

“Girls Can Do Anything” On June 26, 2013, girls of all ages from the OASIS “Girls Can Do Anything” summer camp held a car wash at Kia AutoSport of Tallahassee. Summer camp activities are designed to enhance leadership development, decision-making skills, self-esteem, and embrace how much fun it is to be a girl! The girls used their leadership skills to raise and donate $668 to the TMH Foundation for direct patient care in the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center.

Cards for a Cure Honoree Erin Petscher is a stay-at-home mother raising two daughters -- a five-year-old and a two-year-old. She is upbeat and full of hope. But, in October 2011, at age 32, Erin noticed a lump that had seemingly developed while breastfeeding her youngest daughter. A month later she learned she had Stage 4 Inductive Ductal Carcinoma, and it had spread to her lymph nodes, lungs, and spine. Statistically, Erin was quite young to develop breast cancer, and it is very rare for the disease to spread so quickly from the time of the initial diagnosis. She appeared to be a statistical anomaly. Published data suggested a survival period of only one to five years. Erin and her husband, Yaacov, have a strong faith that sustains them in crisis, so they did not let this news dim their hope.

Erin later discovered that her paternal grandmother died of the same disease.

Prior to diagnosis, Erin was unaware of any family history of breast cancer but she had always been healthy, and no red flags had appeared during routine physical exams.

Initially, Erin and Yaacov had no family nearby to help when she began an aggressive treatment program.

This burden was immediately eased by her father and mother moving to town, and the outpouring of help from the community. People ranging from close friends to complete strangers sent notes, gifts, money, and food. Erin created a blog, asked for prayers on her behalf, and soon people from all 50 states and 11 different countries were praying for complete healing.

Erin visited several physicians with the hope of finding a promising new treatment or a different opinion about her diagnosis. However, every expert quickly told her there was no cure, no chance of being cancer-free, no hope.

She went through aggressive chemotherapy that targeted the primary tumor and her lungs. Erin explains, “There wasn’t a treatment goal for reaching inside my spine to kill the cancer there. Thus, a large group began praying specifically that the cancer inside those vertebrae would disappear. Then, my next PET scan results returned with news that brought real hope. After no surgeries and just three chemotherapy treatments, all the PRESENTS THE 8th ANNUAL metastases were gone! By the time I had a bilateral mastectomy at TMH and completed chemotherapy, my pathology Benefiting the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer report and follow-up PET scan showed I Center and Cancer Programs in Honor of was cancer-free.”

Erin Petscher Erin has been cancer-free for almost a year and is grateful for the new outlook September 28, 2013 she has on life. She says, “I know that 7:00 p.m. - Midnight the physicians who were put in my path Tallahassee Automobile Museum were wise and all the medication helped Live Entertainment -dramatically. I thank God for my healing and extended life, and I am very aware Acme Rhythm & Blues that so few people have encouraging For sponsorship information, please call stories like this to tell.” Erin feels that Janet Borneman at the Tallahassee Memorial her new job is to spread hope to those HealthCare Foundation -- 850.431.4048. who don’t have it, and she is grateful for every day she gets to do so.

Cards for a Cure

Erin will be honored at the 2013 Cards for a Cure event to be held on September 28.

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Erin Petscher, 2013 Cards for a Cure Honoree

PURCHASE TICKETS Cards for a Cure $100 each

Cards for a Cure tickets are $100 each and can be purchased online at www.cardsforacuretallahassee.com or by either calling or e-mailing Janet Borneman, Director of Planned Giving, TMH Foundation — 850.431.4048 or janet.borneman@tmh.org.

FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA Raise Breast Cancer Awareness and Dollars

Members of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter of the Grand Ridge School in Grand Ridge, Florida, who pride themselves on being as good at fundraising as they are at competitions, observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month on October 18 with a “Think Pink” Friday, offering faculty and students the opportunity to wear pink to school for a $1 donation. FFA members, also in their pink shirts, stood in the area where parents pick up their students from school and handed out breast cancer awareness pamphlets and pink-wrapped mini-Hershey bars. Generous parents in the line donated $120, and the faculty and students contributed another $350.75 for a grand total of $470.75.

The funds raised will be placed in the Good Shepherd Fund at the TMH Foundation to benefit the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center; specifically, the funds will help women who have no insurance and cannot pay for either screening or diagnostic mammograms and/or who do not have funds for transportation to and from mammography appointments, or for breast cancer treatment. “Grand Ridge School has less than 650 students from kindergarten through eighth grade. Therefore, this fundraiser represents an extraordinary effort. It is a joy to work with these young donors,” said Janet Borneman, TMH Foundation Director of Planned Giving.

Members of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter of the Grand Ridge School in Grand Ridge, Florida present a check to the TMH Foundation to benefit the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center. From left to right: Kassidy Green, Faith Douthit, Caleb Reed, Garrett Mc Daniel, TMH Foundation Director of Planned Giving Janet Borneman, Grand Ridge Principal Laura Cullifer, Ashlyn Harris, FFA Advisor Shawna Ferguson, Madeline Wright, and Elizabeth Halling.

NEW ZION PRIMITIVE BAPTIST CHURCH

PAYS ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO

BARBARA WASHINGTON WITH DONATIONS TO THE SHARON EWING WALKER BREAST HEALTH CENTER

Elder Dr. F. R. Rush, pastor of the New Zion Primitive Baptist Church, presented the church’s annual gift to the TMH Foundation in memory and honor of Barbara Washington.

During her life, Mrs. Washington was a stalwart in the New Zion Primitive Baptist Church and an advocate for breast cancer awareness and availability of treatment for the underserved. The fourth Sunday of every year has been designated by the church as Barbara Washington memorial contribution Sunday.

TMH Foundation Director of Planned Giving Janet Borneman accepts generous Barbara Washington tribute gift from New Zion Primitive Baptist Church Pastor Elder Dr. F. R. Rush.

JEAN MCCULLY HONORS LADIES OF THE SQUARE TABLE Jean McCully recently honored the Ladies of the Square Table with a donation and plaque in the Healing Garden of the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center. The Ladies of the Square Table are good friends who have played bridge every Wednesday morning for decades — except on the third Wednesday of the month — when most of them attend their Garden Circle meetings. Their friendship and love of g a rd e n i n g inspired Mrs. McCully to honor these ladies.

Left to right front row: Martha Anne Proctor, Sarah Shaw, Gayle Avant, Betty Ann Skelton, Lee Dowling and Jean McCully; Left to right back row: Rae McClure, Phyllis English and Judy Teal Parker. The late Anne Olson, also one of the Ladies of the Square Table, is not pictured.

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Tallahassee Memorial Kid’s Korner

Open House Celebration

Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center celebrated the newly renovated Kid’s Korner unit with an open house and dedication ceremony on October 3.

Pediatricians, nurses and other clinicians, along with TMH colleagues, donors and friends participated in the grand opening of the new Kid’s Korner and were thrilled to be part of this special event.

Judy Meggs, a member of the TMH Auxiliary, made a generous gift to the TMH Foundation designated for the Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center to help fund the Kid’s Korner renovation. According to Mrs. Meggs, “It was a pleasure to see the new Kid’s Korner and it is rewarding to know that private philanthropy helped create a more attractive, soothing environment for children in need of outpatient services.” Nurse Manager of the Children’s Center Kim Outlaw, explained the importance of the renovation, “The transformation of the Kid’s Korner included a fresh coat of light blue paint, displays of the Children’s Center mascots Ace and Tally, other decorative decals, wood flooring and a new nurse’s station. All of this will help children and families feel more comfortable during outpatient services.” Service Line Administrator for Women’s and Children’s Services Connie Styons added, “The Kid’s Korner renovation is a wonderful asset for the Children’s Center, providing beautiful, calm surroundings for children and their families.”

The Kid’s Korner, is located on the same floor as the Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center and provides convenient outpatient services for newborns to adolescents in a 17-county region, including IV Infusions, antibiotics administration, as well as recovery from same day surgical procedures.

Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation Grant

9\e\Ñkj :_`c[i\eÈj :\ek\i GcXpiffd The Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation, upon the recommendation of the Sigma Sigma Sigma Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter through the Robbie Page Memorial Fund, donated funds for current needs of the Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center Child Life Program. The gift was applied toward the purchase of new items for the Center’s playroom including a play kitchen area, picnic table, bean bag game, toy basketball hoop, child-appropriate level bookcases and three colorful tables with matching chairs. The Children’s Center recognizes the importance of play therapy during treatment and how these activities help children feel more comfortable.

TMH Child Life Specialist Lauren Sherrill explained, “The new furniture and games are providing fun distractions and a feeling of ‘normalcy’ during a child’s hospital stay. Already, parents and families are pleased with the new items and excited that their children are enjoying playroom time even more.” The Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center offers activities such as creating new art, reading books or playing games. The items funded by the donation will encourage hospitalized children to be more active and, therefore, lead to a quicker recovery period. Additionally, the tables, chairs, games or books can be transported to the rooms of pediatric patients if they are in isolation.

According to Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation Director Nancy Craig, “It is a pleasure for the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation to partner with the Sigma Sigma Sigma Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter to provide the funding this year to support Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center.

During my recent visit to Tallahassee, it was exciting to tour the Children’s Center and discuss the possibility of helping with future projects TMH Child Life Specialist Lauren Sherrill and for the benefit of Child Life Intern Mariah Ramos show off some children hospitalized of the furnishings acquired with funding from at TMH.” Sigma Sigma Sigma.

TMH Foundation Judy Meggs, TMH Auxiliary member and donor and Paula Fortunas, TMH Foundation President/CEO.

TMH Child Life Specialist Lauren Sherrill shares Children’s Center information with donors Carol Martin and Mary Beth Martin Buchanan.

TMH nurses Donna Ranner and Louisa Williams celebrate the Kids Corner Open House.

Shriners Ahmed Temple #37 Supports Milk Warmer Project

On October 3, Dr. Otis Kirksey and the Shriners Ahmed Temple #37 presented a generous donation to benefit the Tallahassee Memorial Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Milk Warmer Project. The milk warmers are waterless and specifically made to provide controlled warming for each NICU baby’s feeding. NICU Nurse Manager Linda Frimmel noted, “The NICU is extremely grateful to all members of the Shriners Ahmed Temple #37 for their generous support.” This is not the first time that Dr. Kirksey and the Shriners have helped hospitalized children and babies. Each December, the Shriners Ahmed Temple #37 members visit the Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center to deliver beautiful fruit baskets with balloons and treats for hospitalized children and their families.

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Dr. Otis Kirksey presents gift check to TMH Foundation President/CEO Paula Fortunas, NICU Nurse Manager Linda Frimmel, Administrator of Women’s and Children’s Services Connie Styons and TMH Foundation Annual Giving Officer Judi Taber surrounded by the NICU nursing staff and members of the Shriners Ahmed Temple #37.

TALLAHASSEE MEMORIAL AND THE TMH FOUNDATION PROUDLY ANNOUNCE GOLDEN GALA XXXI – STARRING LADY ANTEBELLUM APRIL 30, 2014 – 6:00 P.M. DONALD L. TUCKER CIVIC CENTER

TMH Foundation

DAVE HAYWOOD, HILLARY SCOTT AND CHARLES KELLEY Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and the TMH Foundation proudly announce Golden Gala XXXI — starring the multi-Grammy Award winning Lady Antebellum who promises to make the evening truly “Golden” with an array of hits from its spectacular Golden Deluxe album. To quote trio-member Dave Haywood, “Golden depicts a kind of a special time for us in our career...we are humbled to be making records that people are excited to hear. We’re in a really valuable golden time.”

Golden Gala, now in its thirty-first year, continues to hold its place as the region’s premier charitable and social event. All proceeds are dedicated to Tallahassee Memorial’s Mission – “Transforming Care. Advancing Health. Improving Lives.” and its Vision – “Leading our Community to be the Healthiest in the Nation.”

You are cordially invited to contact the TMH Foundation to make your Golden Gala pledge and reservation. Please either call or e-mail Bonnie Cannon at 850.431.4590 or bonnie.cannon@tmh.org. Thank you very much for your support of .

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Curtains

The Junior League of Tallahassee

9\e\Ñkj 9XY`\j# :_`c[i\e Xe[ =Xd`c`\j J\im\[ Yp KD? On October 31, The Junior League of Tallahassee (JLT) celebrated its seventh Pumpkin Palooza, presenting a day of fun for the children and their families served by the Tallahassee Memorial Children’s Center.

During the event, toys, treats and goody bags were donated with JLT volunteers spending several hours in the playroom with patients. JLT members set aside a special room for face painting for hospitalized children to enjoy. The Center’s playroom was transformed into a Fall Paradise with paper pumpkins hanging from the ceiling, music, games and an arts/crafts area. Each child received a goody bag filled with stickers, toys and art supplies.

Additionally, the JLT recently made its second major gift to support the continuation of the Creating Opportunities for Parent Empowerment Program (COPE) for babies, children and families served by the Center as well as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Women’s and Children’s Service Line Administrator Connie Styons noted, “The COPE Program is very beneficial and offers the Children’s Center and NICU parents the education and tools necessary during their child’s treatment.” Through COPE, medical toy kits, pinwheels, puppets and informational books, education on effective use of these tools, and tips on how to remain calm and support their children and babies.

TMH Foundation Annual Giving Officer Judi Taber concluded, “The TMH Foundation is extremely grateful to the Junior League of Tallahassee for its continued support for COPE and organizing fun events, such as the annual Pumpkin Palooza, to provide needed positive distractions for babies, children and parents.”

JLT members, Tenikca Gainey, Ashley Policastri, Ashley Edwards, Jennifer Stanford and Tabitha Rudd enjoy the event.

Kim Outlaw, Children’s Center Nurse Manager, Judi Taber TMH Foundation Annual Giving Officer and Lauren Sherrill, TMH Child Life Specialist.

JLT volunteers provide guidance on art projects for patients and their siblings.

FOR A CAUSE “Curtains for a Cause”, inaugurated in 2012, is now an officially-designated Valentine’s Day annual event to raise funds for the Florida State University College of Medicine’s Brian Jackson Dystonia Research and Discovery Program and its clinical partner, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. The FSU College of Medicine and TMH are developing a comprehensive scientific research, clinical and education program and, according to Pradeep Bhide, Ph.D. and Charles “Gerry” Maitland, M.D., “Considerable progress has been made over the last twelve months in our neurobiology and clinical research.” The goal is to discover effective treatments and therapies and – ultimately – a cure for Dystonia.

The 2014 “Curtains” production is the award-winning, highly-acclaimed musical revue, “Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits.” Written by Gerard Alessandrini, this four-time winner of the Drama Desk Award is a zany and satirical tribute to some of Broadway’s biggest hits and spotlights Broadway shows and stars such as Carol Channing, Chita Rivera, Barbara Streisand and Mandy Pantinkin in ways you have never seen them before.

Mark your calendars NOW for February 14, 2014 and make your advance reservations by calling or e-mailing Mark Marple at the TMH Foundation: 850.431.4080, mark.marple@tmh.org or by visiting www.CurtainsForACause.com. Tickets are $100 per person and include a gourmet dinner, a rose for the ladies, champagne toast, gratuity, and the show. You may claim an income tax charitable deduction of $50 for each ticket to the extent your personal circumstances permit.

Please join in the philanthropy and the fun as the University Center Club’s Futch Ballroom is transformed into a Broadway dinner theatre with an award-winning menu, a silent auction and twenty-plus, knee-slapping, musical numbers. Just think how great it will be to have your Valentine’s Day plans “all set” for an elegant evening that will serve a life-saving cause.

Protocols for Philanthropy

will return in the March/April issue of Tallahassee Magazine.

Tallahassee Memorial is profoundly grateful to you — its community of donors — for your loyal support and expressions of confidence.

Paula S. Fortunas, President/CEO, TMH Foundation

1331 East Sixth Avenue, Tallahassee, Florida 32303 Telephone: 850.431.5389 Facsimile: 850.431.4483 E-Mail: paula.fortunas@tmh.org Website: www.tmhfoundation.org

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To Make a Secure On-Line Donation: Please visit www.tmhfoundation.org.

Click on Make a Donation and then Click on Secure Credit Card Donation.

»culture SOCIAL STUDIES Belt Buckle Ball November 1, 2013 The 4th annual Belt Buckle Ball was held at The Farm. Guests enjoyed an evening of food, entertainment, bull riding, funny-money poker and the “Best Buckle” contest, all while making miracles happen for Tallahassee’s children in need specialized pediatric care at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital — Tallahassee’s Children’s Miracle Network hospital.

Sisters of Phi Mu at FSU

// photos courtesy Belt Buckle Ball

Stephanie Desantis and Vivian Roden

Stacy Woodruff and Joanna Francis

Champions of Hope September 26, 2013 The Big Bend Homeless Coalition held its “Champions of Hope” event at Goodwood Museum and Gardens.

The event celebrates local residents who have worked their way out of homelessness and the people that helped them to do it. The Champions’ stories were told through short videos highlighting the challenges, struggles and, ultimately, triumph they experienced throughout the process. // photos courtesy Big Bend Homeless Coalition

Nan O’Kelley, Heather Tyndall and Charlotte Homme

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SPONSORED REPORT

A b o u t Yo u r H e a l t h

Half of American Adults Have Gum Disease

By Walter E. Colón, II DMD, MS

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, half of American adults aged 30 and older suffer from gum disease. Imagine if it were announced that half of Americans suffered from heart disease or cancer, people would take immediate action to improve those statistics. February is Gum Disease Awareness Month — the perfect time to make our gums a priority.

A study in the Journal of Dental Research estimates 47.2 percent American adults have mild, moderate or severe periodontitis. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, causes chronic inflammation that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. And its effects can reach much farther than your mouth; gum disease has been associated with other chronic ailments such as heart disease, diabetes and various cancers.

Another recent study found those with gum disease experienced a worse quality of life — including functional limitation, psychological discomfort and social disability.

Many had difficulty pronouncing words and experienced a decline in tasting the flavor of and eating foods. In addition, the sufferers of gum disease reported feeling insecure, tense, embarrassed and irritated, often finding it difficult to relax and do normal daily activities.

It is important to know if you are at risk for gum disease; visit perio.org for a free assessment.

If you are at risk for gum disease, knowing the symptoms can lead to earlier treatment and stopping its progression. The best way to prevent gum disease is by having frequent cleanings and evaluations with a dental professional, including a yearly comprehensive periodontal evaluation to assess for disease. If you suffer from gum disease, ask for it to be treated, not watched.

Periodontal disease is painless until it reaches the advanced stages — and at that point often it’s too late.

If it is determined you have periodontal disease, consider having both your general dentist and a periodontist be actively involved in its diagnosis and If you suffer from gum disease, ask for it to be treated — not treatment. At Periodontal watched. Assistant Tina Malloy prepares a patient for her exam.

Associates of North Florida, we are committed to improving to patients in the areas of Periodontal Disease, Tallahassee’s rate of gum disease so it’s Oral Pathology, Dental Implants, Bone & Gum below the national levels. Join us in the fight Grafting, Scaling & Root Planning, Crown against gum disease by completing a free Lengthening and Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery. risk assessment at perio.org and calling your Dr. Colón treats patients in Tallahassee, north dental professional for an evaluation.

Florida and south Georgia and can be contacted Dr. Colón is a diplomate of the American at Periodontal Associates of North Florida, Board of Periodontology. He off ers treatment 850-692-6216 or tallahasseeperio.com.

Signs of Gum Disease • Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth • Bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating hard food • Gums that are pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before • Loose or separating teeth 226 January–February 2014

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• • • •

Pus between your gums and teeth Sores in your mouth Persistent bad breath A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite • A change in the fit of partial dentures

»culture SOCIAL STUDIES Power Forward with Barbara Corcoran November 6, 2013 First Commerce Credit Union joined with the FSU College of Business to kick off Entrepreneurship Month with guest speaker Barbara Corcoran at the University Center Club. Community leaders, business owners and students alike gathered to hear Corcoran, who has been noted for being motivational, inspirational and sometimes outrageous, speak to the crowd on a variety of topics, including business success. Corcoran is a panelist on ABC-TV’s “Shark Tank” program and the real estate contributor for NBC’s “Today” show.

Cecilia Homison, Canita Peterson, Mike Campbell, Steve Evans, Logan Homison, Barbara Corcoran, Devoe Moore, Shirley McEwan Moore and Chris and Kellie Kraft

// photos by Scott Holstein

Devoe Moore and Barbara Corcoran

Steve Evans and Barbara Corcoran

CarynBeck-Dudley and Cecilia Homison

Vince Long

Mike Campbell, Jesse Henry and Gil Ziffer

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»culture SOCIAL STUDIES Goodwood Jams October 25, 2013 Goodwood Museum & Gardens hosted the 2nd annual Goodwood Jams benefit featuring live music, food and more to celebrate the rich tradition of great entertaining in North Florida while supporting the preservation of the house, grounds and education programs of Goodwood. // photos by Kay Meyer

Jennifer Boland, Sarah Skipper, Sophie Smith and Sandy Taylor Tishamingo featuring Cameron Williams

Stewart Proctor and Frank Douglas

Murray Smith and Amy Forman

15th Annual Stone Crab Fest October 25, 2013 On one of Tallahassee’s first cool evenings of the fall, the 15th annual Stone Crab Fest was held at Eagle Hill on Walt and Carol Dover’s farm in Midway. More than $150,000 was raised to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. More than 500 people, dressed in casual Western attire, enjoyed 825 pounds of stone crab claws and the wonderful side dishes prepared by Vicki Cureton of Cruton & Company.

Music by ENCORE and live and silent auctions entertained the festive crowds at one of Tallahassee’s favorite culinary fundraisers.

Walt and Carol Dover, Gary Stout and Faye Blanton

Diane Owens, Kelley Brewer and Kathy Anderson

// photos by Chuck Simpson

Doug Sherman and Juliane Norden

Front Row: Steve Outlaw, Paula and Tim Fortunas; Back Row: Robert and Robin Glady, Kim Outlaw, Linda and David Frimmel

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Three Generations of Service in Tallahassee

The Demont Insurance Agency was founded in 1964 by James E. Demont. Many things have changed in Tallahassee since that time, but one thing hasn’t...the personal service and experience you receive from our agency. For over 50 years and three generations, the Demont Insurance Agency has been taking care of our clients insurance needs. From auto, residential and commercial insurance to life and health insurance, we’ve got you covered.

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»culture SOCIAL STUDIES 3rd Annual Run For Lawson September 28, 2013 The 3rd annual Run For Lawson charity event was held at Holy Comforter Episcopal School campus and Welaunee Plantation grounds. Runners of all levels enjoyed this chip-timed run on an unspoiled winding cross-country course through pristine greenery. This event is held in memory of Tallahassee teen Lawson Mayfield, who passed suddenly from bacterial meningitis.

With the help of more than 2,000 registered walkers and runners, and an army of sponsors, in-kind supporters and volunteers, Run For Lawson has raised more than $70,000 for the National Meningitis Association over the past two years. // photo courtesy Run for Lawson

15th Annual Oktoberfest October 25, 2013 More than 1,000 people joined Elder Care Services Inc. at its 15th Annual Oktoberfest, Elder Care’s signature fundraising event held at Mission San Luis. All proceeds from the event will benefit programs and services offered to seniors in Tallahassee and surrounding counties. The fun-filled evening featured authentic German cuisine, beer tastings, silent auction, photo fun booth, traditional biergarten and music by Low Flying Planes.

Keith and Lisa Foran

// photos by Lynda Belcher Chuck Goodowns

Vicky Thomas and Whitney Kelly

Veronica Dunkelberger and Ben Schultz

Catherine Segura and Connie Fullington

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Driven by Convenience

The Proctor Dealerships In the People Business . . . for over 100 Years

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»culture SOCIAL STUDIES Celebration of Compassion October 12, 2013 The Leon County Humane Society hosted its 2nd annual Celebration of Compassion at The Barn at The Old Willis Dairy. The event featured live music by the Porchdogs and Cajun hors d’oeuvres, as well as “Dog-ma” author Barbara Boswell Brunner. // photos by Eric Montgomery Photography and ellebelle photography Mandy Schnittker and Kensie

Tim Motta and Liz Over

Frank Willis and Rescue Dog, Summer

Bill Jackson and Angela Jordan

2013 Aim for a Cure October 19, 2013 The 5th annual Aim for a Cure sporting clays tournament was held at Southwind Sporting Clays and Quail Hunting, located in Quitman, Ga. The festivities began with a light breakfast on the grounds of the club, and then teams participated at 12 stations and shot 50 targets. There were also prize drawings, a lunch and an awards ceremony. // photo by Tricia Chason

Ladies of Lawson & Lawson Electrical

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Rogers, Gunter, Vaughn Insurance (RGVI), Tallahassee’s team of risk management advisors and comprehensive insurance agents, has formed the WellU ACAdemy — bringing together experts in health care, business and insurance to help individuals and businesses navigate the changing health care landscape and make sound, confident health care decisions.

Schedule your free WellU session today at WellU@rgvi.com or call 850-386-1111.

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»culture THE BUZZ

The

Buzz

Welcome to The Buzz, Tallahassee Magazine’s column created to share who’s where and what they’re doing. While we try to flit around with all of Tallahassee’s social butterflies, the Buzz can’t be everywhere. Send the skinny on your next soiree to buzz@tallahasseemagazine.com. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

In the fall, the fields have been reaped, and it’s time to store meat for the winter to come. Which is why, in October, the full moon is known as the Hunter’s Moon.

A select group of 30 were invited to harken back to the past at The Hunter’s Moon Dinner, an outdoor feast at The Old Willis Dairy. Hosted by the venue’s owners, Frank and Peper Willis, and hospitality power couple Marc and Pam Bauer, guests were treated to a multicourse gourmet dinner under the site’s massive oak tree. The long table was perfectly situated and the meal perfectly timed for the group to enjoy the moonrise as the meal, created by The Front Porch Executive Chef Chris Leynes, was served family style.

From the social hour’s smoked mullet dip and pickled watermelon rind, to the pie made from Orchard Pond’s Seminole Squash for dessert, “locally sourced” was the theme of the night. The fish course included Gulf shrimp, Apalachicola oysters and the season’s first stone crab claws.

A ham made from a wild boar caught in the area was served along with sausages from Bradley’s and local maker Joey Moore. Accompaniments included roasted sugar beet. and arugula salad, cornbread made with datil peppers from the Willis Dairy garden and slathered with orange blossom honey butter, stuffed baked apples with a homemade bourbon blend glaze and au gratin potatoes flavored with truffle oil.

The night was a take on “Outstanding in the Field” dinners popular in other locales. Bryan Desloge floated the idea but wasn’t at the inaugural event because he was traveling in Greece.

Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner was there, as well as Bill Raynor and Ginny Chandler Weeks, Jim Roche and Alexa Kleinbard, Tracey and Jonathon Van Hook, Crawford and Teresa Atkins, Lloyd and Rosanne Dunkelberger, Steve Adams and JoAnne Suggs, Steve and

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Driven by Excellence

The Proctor Dealerships In the People Business . . . for over 100 Years

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The Growing Room Way Infant Care 6 weeks through Preschool After School Program kindergarten to 10 years of age We are proud to be APPLE Accredited and a DCF Gold Seal Quality Care Preschool

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Locally Owned & Operated

»culture THE BUZZ Dorothy Leukanech, Mark and Karyn Tarmey, Autumn Calder and Chris Clark.

The hosts are planning to repeat the repast with a larger group next year. And because the Hunter’s Moon dictates the date, it’s already been set — Thursday, Oct. 9, 2014. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Friends of The Foundation for Leon County Schools celebrated 27 years of success at the Harvest Moon Soiree, held Oct. 10. Executive Director Shelia Costigan was posted outside the Goodwood Carriage House greeting board members as they arrived. Among those enjoying the hors d’oeuvres were event chair Sue and Jay Newman, Lucy and Fred Harris, presenting sponsor Envision’s Darryl Worrell, Mary Estes, Ben Graybar, Dean and Gloria Pugh, Sherell Ash, Albert Wollerman, Kelly and Laurie Dozier, Patrick Keating and Adam Corey. School board members were on hand, as well as several elected officials, including Jackie Pons. A fishing trip with the Leon County Schools superintendent was one of the 70plus items auctioned off during the event.

Several teachers, who benefit from the event’s proceeds, volunteered at the Soiree. Entertainment was provided by vocalist Avis Berry, a fifth-grade teacher at Gilchrest Elementary in her day job. Board Chairman David Vincent told the assembled crowd that the event set records for attendance and money raised.

1950-M Thomasville Road Betton Place • Above Food Glorious Food 422-1373 • Tuesday–Friday 10 – 6 • Saturday 10 – 4 RobertsJewelry.net

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The space next to Midtown Filling Station in the Manor@Midtown has seen restaurants come and go, but Taco Republik looks like it will have staying power.

This is the first foray into restaurants for entrepreneurial brothers A.J. and Alex Patel, but they have partnered with the culinary team from the popular Mobi food truck to create unique, gourmet-style, reasonably priced ($3 and $4 each) tacos made with fresh ingredients. The Patels’ family, including spouses Sonia and Niral, were there for the grand opening, along with a crowd that included Lee and Terry Daniel, Angelo Crowell, Patrick Bilyk, Lance Lozano and Justin Kawar. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

It’ s a playground, all right, but the Recess you’ll find on the rooftop of CollegeTown is definitely reserved for the grownups. About 200 people mixed and mingled at a VIP party Oct. 8 to get a preview of Hunter+Harp’s latest venture, a nightclub that channels the vibe of Vegas and South Beach, with cabanas and LED lights as well as the venue’s main attraction — a (way) above-ground swimming pool.

H+H’s A-team (including JT Burnett, Chad Kittrell, Marc and Pam Bauer and Steve Adams) was on hand to welcome guests who sipped wine and champagne served by waitresses in bra-tops and the shortest of short shorts — let’s just say they were “cheeky” — and enjoying finger

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CAPITAL R EGIONAL M EDICAL G ROUP

PHYSICIAN NETWORK OF CARE

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Women’s Health Michael L. Douso, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Stephanie Cruz Lee, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Jolita Burns, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. 2770 Capital Medical Blvd, Suite 110 Tallahassee, FL 32308 850.877.5589

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2013 Top Salon

NOMINEE

»culture THE BUZZ foods provided by downstairs neighbor Madison Social restaurant.

DeVoe Moore was enjoying the view — of Doak Campbell Stadium — as well as Chris and Kellie Craft, Brian Rowland, Kimberly and Angelo Crowell, Joe and Stephanie Borras, Eric Kemp, Liz Maryanski, Dean Minardi, Randy Elkins, Gordon Oakley, Jim Rudnick, Kevin Thomasso and Gary Lehman. Others on hand enjoying the evening as the sun set were Sue Dick, Eddie Knowles, Charles Nutwell, Julia Casseaux, Charles Musgrove, Jason Naumann, Lee Meadows, Patrick McKee and Doug Blackburn. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

For a second year, the Leon County Humane Society gave a great big “thank you” to its most loyal supporters in October with a “Celebration of Compassion.” More than 200 people enjoyed shrimp and grits and sipped “Barkarita” and “Purricane” cocktails at the Louisiana coastal-themed event, held under the stars at The Old Willis Dairy.

Special guest for the evening was Barbara Boswell Brunner, author of “Dog-ma: The Zen of Slobber,” accompanied by her husband and Parson Russell Terrier, Izzy.

Enjoying the beautifully decorated outdoor venue were Hella and Michael Spellman, Gerry and Tim Phipps, Jennifer Jackson, Chuck and Patty Mitchell, Rosemary Bryant, Sam and Judy Lamb, Margo and Armando Garcia, Sondra Brown DVM, Marleen Ahearn, Cindy Owen Briley, Rick Kearney and Theo Proctor Jr. and Martha Ann Proctor.

WCTV’s Gina Pitisci served as the night’s emcee and new LCHS Executive Director Abby Ouimet talked about the group’s 53-year history in our area. A special recognition went to longtime volunteer and former president Audrey Bevan.

The program concluded with a “dog’s-eye view” video about Honey, one of the 800 or so animals rescued by the LCHS this year. The 8-year-old English bulldog had a temperament to match her sweet name, but also came with seriously infected ears that required long-term treatment and left her deaf.

While Honey’s video showed a happy ending, there was an even happier coda. Turns out LCHS supporter Sonya DeMarco saw Honey at the event, was moved by her story and told her daughter — who was considering adding a bulldog to her life. You can guess the rest; two weeks later, Honey found her forever home.

Sweeps • Inspections • Repairs Raincaps • Woodstoves • Gas Logs Gas Fireplaces • Dampers Sales • Installation

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On Nov. 7, Tallahassee’s elite experienced a night of fine food and great wine in honor of an important cause at the annual Signature Chefs Auction. Hosted by the March of Dimes at Mission San Luis, this event saw the likes of Kevin McCarty, Sen. Bill Montford, City Commissioner Gil and Gail Ziffer and Alan Keese guest starring as

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Driven by Stability

The Proctor Dealerships In the People Business . . . for over 100 Years

proctorcars.com

For us, it’s personal.

Community advocates created a hometown hospice in 1983.

Local leaders contiue the legacy.

Ask for Big

Bend Hospice by name

Big Bend Hospice Board of Directors pictured left to right:

Michael Penney, Cathy Adkison, Ronald Tate, Raymond Capelouto Richard Barnum, Dr. Alma Littles, Matthew Hansard, Wendy Hansen Tim Sanders, Judy Greenwald, Rheb Harbison, Holly Dincman, Steve Mindlin Brant Copeland, Marsha Morrison, Rocky Bevis Not pictured: Dr. David Jones Bob Inzer, Rev. Dr. R. B. Holmes, Jr., Gloria Rollins, A. J. Smith, Jay Smith

0DKDQ &HQWHU %RXOHYDUG 7DOODKDVVHH )/ ‡ ‡ ZZZ ELJEHQGKRVSLFH RUJ 240 January–February 2014

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»culture THE BUZZ “celebrity sous chefs.” The (real) chefs at 101, The Front Porch, Japanica, Real Paella, Georgio’s and many others created a variety of delectable finger foods, ranging from the divinely elegant to the casually delicious. Arranged into serving stations around Mission San Luis’ winding corridors, menu items included an array of sushi, artichoke dip, caprese salad on a skewer, smoked salmon and jambalaya. After the hors d’oeuvres were devoured and the sparkling beverages swilled, auctioneers, Sen. Aaron Bean and WCTV’s Executive Producer Shonda Knight, lead the night’s charitable festivities.

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Barbara Corcoran, successful real estate entrepreneur and one of the tycoons on the television show “Shark Tank,” wowed a crowd of Tallahassee’s business elite during the inaugural speech of the Power Forward series. Petite and plainspoken, Corcoran shared her unique brand of business savvy that built a $5 billion business.

Leon County Administrator Vince Long warmed up the crowd with a humorous Shark Tank-like pitch for a handsfree (and bedazzled) wine glass. Introducing Corcoran were representatives from the event’s lead sponsors, First Commerce Credit Union CEO Cecilia Homison and FSU College of Business Dean Caryn Beck-Dudley.

Also on hand to take advantage of Corcoran’s business savvy were Carla De Baldo, Mike Campbell, Martin and Theo Proctor, DeVoe and Shirley Moore, County Commissioner Kristin Dozier, Tallahassee Chamber President/CEO Sue Dick, Karen Moore and many students from FSU’s School of Business. Her talk was followed by a networking reception where introductions were made and business cards passed around. Among those pressing the flesh were Johanna Money, Heidi Otway, Jason Naumann, Brian Webb, Michael Davino, Jeff Doxsee, Doctors Russ and Cheryl Rainey, Dan Parisi and Kenzie Burleigh. Perhaps the luckiest duck of the day was Daryl Green, who was able to spend two hours of one-onone time with Corcoran as he drove to Tallahassee after picking her up at the Jacksonville airport.

206 E. 6th Avenue at Monroe & 6th in Midtown Mon-Sat 10-6 (850) 894-VERA thegreyfoxonline.com

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There’s nothing better than a little Southern hospitality, especially when it incorporates a smooth taste of bourbon and the smoky flavor of bacon. First Commerce Credit Union hosted A Taste of Bourbon & Bacon — the perfect Southern gathering — at Madison Social in CollegeTown Oct. 22. This unique and flavorful event was part of First Commerce’s latest Champions for Charity campaign, which benefited the FSU Student Veterans Center. Among those partaking of the bourbon and bacon were Kristin Richardson, who concepted the event, Kim Howes, Cecilia and Lee Homison, Carla De Baldo, Mary Estes, Jan Sheffield, Brian and Cherie Rowland, Billy Francis, Ryan Taylor, Matt Thompson, Daryl Green, Park Broome, John and Cassandra Grayson, and many more. Watch for this event to reappear next fall!

JIM SMITH

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DINING » FEASTING » ZESTY BITES

Flavor

Culinary Comfort, Southern Style Art Smith Gives Back and ‘Pays It Forward’

By Audrey Post

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courtesy harperCollins

W

hen you think of Southern-style comfort food, “healthy” usually isn’t the first word that springs to mind. Once you’ve read “Art Smith’s Healthy Comfort,” however, you might rethink your definition of “comfort.” Subtitled “How America’s Favorite Celebrity Chef Got It Together, Lost Weight, and Reclaimed His Health,” the book is part recipe collection and part inspirational coaching.

Smith — celebrity chef to stars including Oprah Winfrey, James Beard Award winner, North Florida native and Florida State University alumnus — readily admits that for most of his life, he consoled himself with food in response to life’s darts and daggers. But when he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes a few years ago, he faced the challenge headon: He changed his lifestyle, With a beautiful pre“re-imagined” his favorite sentation and simple foods prepared in a more preparation, Herb healthful way and took up and Mustard-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with running. He lost 120 pounds Roasted Peaches is and, as he says in the book’s one of the recipes in introduction, “wrestled type chef Art Smith’s new 2 diabetes into submission, cookbook. or at least remission!”

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»food Flavor

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“Like so many people, I ate to combat the negativity and to fill a void. I was around food all day long, so this wasn’t too hard, and no one seemed to notice when I packed on the pounds,” he wrote.

“I was a fat, jovial chef who cooked good-oleboy Southern food that the world loved.”

“Like so many He doesn’t present his latest cookbook as a people, I ate “diet book,” instead sayto combat the ing the recipes focus on healthful whole foods negativity and and flavors that contribto fill a void. I ute to a healthy lifestyle.

His willingness to share was around food with others what worked for him is more than just all day long, so good business, friends this wasn’t too say; it’s part of Smith’s generous nature. hard, and no one “ T he e ssence of seemed to notice Art has always been to give back or to when I packed on pay it forward,” said the pounds. I was Nella Schomburger, Tallahassee caterer and a fat, jovial chef former restaurateur who who cooked good“discovered” Smith back in the 1970s, when she ole-boy Southern went to FSU’s hospifood that the tality program looking for students to hire. world loved.”

She also worked for seven years as manager — Art Smith of the governor’s mansion, introducing Smith to Florida First Lady Adele Graham, who hired him as chef. Jeb Bush later brought him back for a second gig at the mansion.

“She’s my mama,” Smith says of Schomburger. “Through it all, she has been my confidante, my advisor. When I cried, she told me to pick up my head. She taught me how to be more businesslike.

She also taught me the fine art of kissing babies.”

He recalled Schomburger’s concern when he decided to open his first restaurant, Camellia Grill in Tallahassee. She asked him if he was sure he knew what he was getting into, and “I thought I did, but I didn’t,” he said. “We wanted it to be a very hipster kind of place, lots of brick and corrugated tin.”

Smith has learned a lot since that first venture on Tharpe Street, and he now owns restaurants in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta and several California locations. He and his spouse, artist Jesus Salgueiro, founded Common Threads in 2003 to teach children about cultural diversity, nutrition and healthy living through the arts and cooking. The chef raised $10,000 for Common Threads when he competed on Bravo TV’s hit “Top Chef Masters.” Common Threads now has chapters in Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles and Washington, and Smith and Salgueiro are opening the first rural chapter in Jasper, Fla., Smith’s hometown.

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Photos courtesy Nella Schomburger (group) and harperCollins (art Smith)

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Art Smith today (top), who shed 120 pounds and Type 2 diabetes with the more healthful eating he embraces in his new book. Nella Schomburger (center) has been “mama” to Smith (right) since his days as an FSU student.

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»food Flavor

Roasted Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup Serves 6

METHOD

For the soup: » 2 medium sweet potatoes » 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil » 1 medium yellow onion, cut into small dice » 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger » 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced » 2 teaspoons ground coriander » ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg » 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or water » Salt

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

For the garnish: » 2 green onions, root ends removed, finely chopped

Per serving: 111 calories, 6 grams of

fat (1 gram of saturated fat), 0 milligrams of cholesterol, 73 milligrams of sodium, 12 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, 22 milligrams of calcium.

Poke the sweet potatoes with a fork, wrap in aluminum foil and bake in the oven for one hour. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Cut the sweet potatoes in half, and scrape out the flesh.

Heat the oil over medium heat in a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot. Add the onions and ginger and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for five minutes or until the onions are translucent. Add the jalapeno, coriander and nutmeg and cook for three minutes or until fragrant. Add the roasted sweet potato flesh and stock to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Remove from heat and puree with a handheld immersion blender or in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt.

ASSEMBLY Divide the soup among six serving bowls and sprinkle with the green onions.

“Art has a huge heart,” Schomburger added.

“He truly believes that those who have been blessed have an obligation to reach out and help others.”

He has also supported Goodwood Museum & Gardens over the years, from the very first fundraiser under a huge pink tent on the front lawn in the early 1990s through the antique shows in the early 2000s. He first got to know Goodwood when he was an FSU student in the ’70s and ’80s, back in the day when its last owner, Tom Hood, was still living in the main house and renting out the cottages on the property. “The place was kind of creepy back then.

It wasn’t in very good shape,” Smith recalled.

“Now, just look at it!”

Schomburger, another longtime Goodwood supporter who now sits on its board of directors, and Smith are teaming up again for a fundraiser Jan. 25 and 26. On Saturday night, Chef Art and Friends present “Pigmania! The Southern Art of the Refined Pig” — an homage to pork in all its palate-pleasing personas.

Sunday afternoon’s events include a Q-andA session cookbook signing and cooking lessons

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»food Flavor for children. Lynn and Sam Solomon and Cindy and Doug Sessions are event co-chairs.

“Goodwood is more than a pretty place that’s a prop for weddings; it’s a place where history was created,” Smith said. “We want the little ones to love this place as much as the big ones, the adults do because ultimately they are the ones who will be called upon to support and preserve it.” n

Herb and MustardCrusted Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Peaches (pictured on page 243) Serves 4

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For the pork: » 1 pork tenderloin » Salt and freshly ground black pepper » 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard » 2 tablespoons herbs de Provence For the peaches: » 3 peaches » 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil » 1 sprig rosemary

Per serving:

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METHOD To prepare the pork: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Season the pork on all sides with salt and pepper. Rub the mustard completely over the pork and sprinkle it with the herbs de Provence. Place in a roasting pan, and roast for 40 to 45 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees on an instant-read thermometer.

Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing into ½-inch thick pieces.

To prepare the peaches: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 1 minute and immediately shock in a bowl of ice water. Remove and discard the skins. Cut the peaches into eighths. Place the peach slices in an ovenproof pan and drizzle the olive oil over them. Add the rosemary sprig. Cover the pan and roast in the oven for 15 minutes or until the peaches are tender. Discard the rosemary sprig.

ASSEMBLY Divide the pork among four serving plates and spoon the roasted peaches over the top.

Brian Rowland, President, Rowland Publishing

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Celebrity Chef Art Smith and Friends present “Pigmania! The Southern Art of the Refined Pig” on Saturday evening, Jan. 25, and a family-friendly gathering on Sunday, Jan. 26 from 1–3 p.m. including children’s cooking classes with Chef Art. Go to goodwoodmuseum.org for details and tickets.

Proceeds benefit Goodwood Museum & Gardens.

courtesy harperCollins

Roasted Acorn Squash and Honey Serves 4

METHOD

» 2 acorn squash (about 1 pound each) » 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil » ¼ teaspoon grated fresh nutmeg » 2 tablespoons honey » 8 sage leaves, chopped » Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Split the squash in half and scrape out the seeds with a spoon. Cut the squash halves into quarters and place in a mixing bowl, leaving the skin on the squash sections. Toss the squash with the olive oil, nutmeg, honey and sage leaves. Lay the squash pieces, cut sides down, on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the squash flesh begins to turn golden brown and is tender. Season the squash with salt and pepper.

Per serving:

108 calories, 5 grams of fat (1 gram saturated fat), 0 milligrams cholesterol, 4 milligrams sodium, 18 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein, 39 milligrams of calcium.

ASSEMBLY Arrange the squash on a serving platter.

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»food Feature

The Flavor of Perseverance Klassic Katering Owner Karen Chapman Embraces the Good, the Bad and the Delicious for More Than 17 years

By Chay D. Baxley

Now, in her time of need, those two familiar places were worlds away.

“I was just a Yankee from the big city who lived in Fort Myers for some time,” joked Chapman on her mindset after moving to Tallahassee in 1991. “But Fort Myers and Tallahassee are two completely different things.”

For better or worse, fate had brought her to Florida’s capital city. And when in Rome, it’s best to do — or at least barbecue — as the Romans do. That was the philosophy Chapman embraced when she decided to set up shop for KC’s BBQ. About a year after Don was diagnosed, Karen quit her day job and started serving up savory pork sandwiches full time.

The learning curve was a major culture shock.

“First of all, what did I know about smoking barbecue? You should have seen me. I was outside, in my driveway, the flames were coming up,” laughed Chapman as she animated the memorable scene.

“I learnt what Southern mentality was all about,” she said in a moment of poetic conversation. “I learnt what Southern hospitality was all about.”

Admittedly, Chapman’s first culinary endeavor in Tallahassee was one of pure necessity, but it

Scott Holstein

In the spring of 1997, Karen Chapman’s husband of 19 years, Don, was diagnosed with a rare form of highly aggressive bone cancer.

Life had handed her the sourest of lemons.

After a good cry, she took a breath. Then, Chapman proceeded to make lemonade, lemon squares and the most delectable lemon meringue pie you’ve ever tasted. What else could she do?

Don’s prognosis was poor, and the couple’s teenage daughter, Samantha, was utterly devastated.

“We never knew what every day was going to bring,” said Chapman of those dark times. “It was always something new.”

One thing was blatantly clear, though — Chapman’s every waking moment needed to revolve around keeping her family unit intact.

A career change was in order for this highly educated former schoolteacher and principal, but in what direction? With their finances tied up by the construction of a new home, her decision weighed heavily.

Karen and Don A Brooklyn transplant, Chapman with she had spent the previous a memento from 16 years getting adjusted to their earliest catering days. life in sunny Fort Myers.

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»food Feature

gave the Chapman family — as well as local residents — a taste of things to come.

“It was me, in a dump truck, with a $100 charcoal grill,” shared the vivaciously determined caregiver and entrepreneur about the early days, when her builder would lend her his work truck so she could get from point A to B — maybe earning ten bucks along the way.

At the same time that Chapman’s life had been turned upside down, the couple’s daughter, Samantha — now a successful television producer in New York City — was pursuing her education and, with it, her “I’m not going to lie, dreams. when you’re 18 years “I think there have been times she’s often old and a senior in wondered if I was high school, and proud of her,” admitted Samantha, 33, duryour parents are ing an emotional and selling sandwiches raw interview about her and her mother’s at a football game … relationship. “I’m not going to lie, when everyone loved the you’re 18 years old and food, but because a senior in high school, and your parents are I’m private, there selling sandwiches at was always the a football game … everyone loved the feeling of ‘Oh, I don’t food, but because I’m want anyone to private, there was always the feeling know we’re selling of ‘Oh, I don’t want sandwiches.’ ” anyone to know we’re selling sandwiches.’

“At the end of the — Samantha Chapman day, she afforded me the ability to graduate college early and go to New York. She afforded me the ability to never want for anything, but also never take anything for granted,” shared Samantha, choking back tears.

For Don, who was forced to resign from his job due to health complications, those days consisted of sitting by his wife’s side, taking his aching body and folding chair wherever barbecuing led them. Weeks turned into months. Surgeries came, along with hospital bills. They made the rounds of Tallahassee Memorial, Shands, Moffitt and Sloan-Kettering seeking care for Don’s cancer. And, despite the odds, things started to look up. He was getting better.

After gaining recognition within the community, Chapman sat her smoker aside for something more akin to her own style. A change of pace, and taste, was once again in order. Klassic Katering was born in early 1999.

“I knew I wanted it to be different, so I called it Klassic Katering,” said Chapman on how her current business venture came to be, playing off her first name’s initial. “One thing led to another, and here I sit.” She’s not sympathetic to people who have a “can’t do” attitude: “When people tell me that they can’t do something here

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in Tallahassee or when people tell me that they can’t provide for themselves … . We had nothing. Nothing.”

For years, the new, struggling business took any and every catering opportunity that came their way. Weddings, corporate soirees, political gatherings and family get-togethers — Chapman handled them all. Nothing was too miniscule or grand.

“It was a matter of self survival,” she said of those early days. “It was a matter of wanting to do the best that you can do not only for your family, but also for your own business.”

Word of her delicious concoctions spread, and Klassic Katering’s client list began to multiply.

“She’s wonderful,” said repeat Klassic client Ysonde Jensen, Development & Communications Associate at Tallahassee Community College. “A consummate professional. She delivers an outstanding product.”

DAILY @11AM

Photos Courtesy Don Chapman

Double Cheeseburger

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OUTBACK.COM Barbecue was Karen Chapman’s first foray into food service. She’s shown here at SouthWood in 2002 (top) and at the BP station at FSU, now a Checkers, (above) in 2000.

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»food Feature

“I love things that are beautiful. I love things that are not typical. (I) always do something that’s a little edgy, a little different. I just decided that since that’s what I like to do, that’s what I was going to do to make a living.”

Tasty food with a creative presentation is a hallmark of Klassic Katering. Shown here are (top to bottom) a Roasted Asparagus Platter with Fiery Roasted Red Pepper Asiago Dip, Cowboy Caviar and Ham and Gruyere Croissant Bites.

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While born of necessity, opening up a catering company was a logical step in the evolution of Chapman’s career. Coming from a long line of entertainers, she was blessed with a knack for cooking in quantity as well as with the “fabulous” recipes from her father’s personal archives.

When it came to catering; delicious, decorative and unique were her specialties from the very beginning. And, to this day, no one pulls them off quite like she does.

“I didn’t only do the food, the bride became my bride,” beamed Chapman. “She became important to me.”

That combination of heart and creative flair has made Klassic Katering a favorite for Tallahassee’s brides, partygoers and party throwers. Part of the allure is also Chapman herself. “I always say everyone wants a little piece of Karen,” laughed Chapman.

“I love things that are beautiful,” she enthused. “I love things that are not typical. (I) always do something that’s a little edgy, a little different. I just decided that since that’s what I like to do, that’s what I was going to do to make a living.”

Since that fateful decision, a lot has changed for Tallahassee and the Chapmans as well. After a period of remission, Don’s cancer recurred. And once again, he won. At that time, the couple owned a small café known as the Fickle Pickle which, due to the health limitations of both Don and Karen, was forced to close prematurely.

“The one thing that has stayed the same I think is the generosity of a lot of people,” said Chapman of Tallahassee — then and now. “I think that even though it has grown, the same people who built my house — the same plumbers, the same air-conditioning people — they’ve grown up with me.”

And as for Don? “Now he’s retired, and I have a company that’s crazy,” laughed Chapman of their hectic life together. n

Photos courtesy Kendi Pelot (top), Terri Smith (center) and Woodland Fields (bottom)

— Karen Chapman

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Superior Painting has been advertising in Tallahassee Magazine for the last seven years. “We don’t consider it an advertisement as much as we do a partnership,” says Gerard LaMothe Jr. “Their staff is professional and very easy to work with.”

The family-run business is proud to display their emblem as Tallahassee Magazine’s “Best of” painting contractor and appreciative of the magazine’s readers, who have named Superior Painting to the top spot six years in a row.

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»food on the MENU

Soup Swift A Little Bird Tells Us Delicious Things Are on the Table for Chef/Owner Meagan Lagasse

By Chay D. Baxley // Photos by Scott Holstein When Maine native Meagan Lagasse opened the doors to Soup Swift in February 2008, she had no idea how, or even if, her soup-specializing café would catch on. After all, hers was a different — and, well, slightly warmer — approach to holistic dining than Tallahassee was accustomed to.

Think about it. Soup? In Florida? All year round? Needless to say, there were skeptics. But that didn’t stop her. Encouraged by friends and fellow soup advocates to follow her dreams of being a self-employed, creative proponent of healthful living, Lagasse decided to turn her passion for delicious dining into a career.

“You’re supposed to choose the thing that you can get up and do every day,” explained Lagasse of her life’s philosophy. “And definitely, I still, after five years, get up every day and I’m excited to play with the flavors of the soups.”

Some of those playful flavors include Smoked Apple and Butternut Squash Bisque, Chinese Chicken Soup, Potato Sausage and Kale, Carrot with Ginger and Corn Chowder. Many of her soups are vegetarian, and some are also vegan as well as gluten-free — a culinary challenge Lagasse prides herself on mastering. While the bulk of the café’s business does hinge on soup, the eatery also offers other choices, including daily salad, sandwich and quiche options as well as dessert pastries.

Growing up in a French-influenced household means that by her very nature Lagasse is a purist. In an effort to let the flavor of her menu items speak for themselves, she insists on using only the freshest of ingredients — making traditional, seasonal crop harvest calendars her guiding light.

“Whatever ingredients or ingredient are in the soups or salad are all of the season and the freshest they can be, and therefore I just don’t have to manipulate them very much,” Lagasse shared on why she made the decision to have her menu change daily. “I’m such an advocate of whole food eating.”

Now, Lagasse’s advocacy is taking her in a new direction — catering.

Meagan Legasse (above) serves lunch which In October, she unveiled her latest might include (above right) Beet, New Potato business venture, Little Bird Vintage Salad with Blue Cheese Créme Fraiche on Catering, which will focus on intiOrganic Baby Greens; A sampler trio of soups mate event catering for finer palates. (below right) Sundried tomato and Sweet Corn Wedding receptions, bridal showers Bisque, Portobello, Kale and Butternut Squash Soup and Lima Bean and Blue Cheese Soup. and upscale dinner parties are this

new company’s ideal clientele. Little Bird Vintage Catering will serve high-end delectables with a personal touch. Menu items might include unique appetizers, savory moussed entrees and petite deserts.

“I want to do a re-visitation of (traditional catering) and call it vintage catering,” she explained. “It’s more pâtés and tureens and real profiteroles that are filled with savory and sweet things.”

Yum. n

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»food on YOUR TABLE

Health Nut » 2 tablespoons sesame seed butter » 2 rice cakes (Quaker Oats now offers gluten-free) » 1 tablespoon sugar-free blackberry jam

Spread jam on one rice cake. Spread sesame seed butter on the other cake. Press the two cakes together.

Mess-Free PB&J Burrito » 1 medium tortilla » 1 banana, whole » 2 tablespoons peanut butter » 2 tablespoons jelly

Gourmet PB&J This Lunchbox Staple Isn’t Just for Kids Anymore Peanut butter and jelly. Deliciously nostalgic, this simple sandwich appeals to adults who can no longer physically — or fiscally — support a fast-food lunch habit. Whether you want something healthy or indulgent, the classic sandwich is an ideal starting point for thinking outside the (lunch)box. Inventive, wholesome ingredients can open up a world of flavor and texture possibilities.

Let’s start with the butters. Amazingly enough, smooth and crunchy aren’t your only options.

Almond butter and hazelnut butter are increasingly popular alternatives to peanut butter. But remember, not all nut butters are healthier choices.

Cashew butter, for example, is higher in saturated fat and calories.

Almond butter has just as many calories as peanut butter but is higher in overall nutrition, according to dietitians. Some people find the taste sweeter than peanut butter which makes good for pairing with savory jams.

Different butters give the sandwich a slightly different flavor. Sesame seed and sunflower seed butters deviate most from the familiar peanut butter taste. For the health conscious, seed butters provide a similar texture to peanut butter with added mineral content and a lower concentration of fatty acids. Not every store stocks these

Spread peanut butter across the inside of the tortilla. Spread jelly on top of the peanut butter. Place banana above that and roll up the tortilla so the banana is in the middle.

By Lauren Gillespie

special options, but they can be found at most health food grocers.

You can also make your own peanut butter at home. Homemade peanut butter avoids all of the preservatives, like hydrogenated oil, that give your favorite jar a longer shelf life. Most nut and some seed butters can in fact be made with a few ingredients and a food processor.

But that’s only half the sandwich. The type of jelly you use is just as important as the butter. To add some local flavor to their lunch boxes, Panhandle residents slather on mayhaw jelly. This tart delicacy is grown in the South and sold by local producers.

Most stores have low-fat and sugar-free options, but why not skip the added sugar and go straight for fresh fruit? Blueberries, strawberries and bananas make a sweet addition to any PB&J. You can also change the entire taste of the sandwich by switching the bread. Though white bread is traditional, whole wheat bread is a healthier option, as are sandwich thins and even rice cakes. In my family, we layer peanut butter and honey on thick slices of fresh banana bread. Be creative!

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches may seem like children’s fare, but fresh ingredients and a little imagination can make this a sophisticated adult lunch choice.

Chocolate Fluffernutter » 2 slices whole wheat berry bread » 2 tablespoons almond butter » 1 tablespoon hazelnut butter » 1 tablespoon marshmallow fluff

Spread hazelnut butter on one slice of bread. Spread almond butter on the other slice. Drop marshmallow fluff in between, and then press the two slices together.

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Brunch at Paisley Cafe features classic dishes prepared with the highest quality ingredients available. The brunch sampler, at left, includes rustic spinach and gruyere quiche, creamy smoked gouda grits, smoked sausage, blueberry scones, apple butter, a chocolate chip whipping cream biscuit and mixed seasonal berries!

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»food DINING GUIDE

The Key

Gourmet Specialty Andrew’s 228 American, Italian. A chic urban restaurant serving signature blends of creative American and Italian cuisine in stylish surroundings. Private rooms are available for banquets and meetings. 228 S. Adams St. (850) 222-3444. $$$ D Avenue Eat & Drink American Fusion. A chic restaurant offering a melting pot of flavors fresh from the South, served in scrumptious dining presentations. Sunday brunch is a not-to-be-missed treat. 115 E. Park Ave. (850) 224-0115. $$$ B L D Cypress Restaurant H New Southern. To make a special evening a cut above the rest, bring the celebration to Cypress. Known for its sophisticated take on Southern Cuisine, this restaurant won readers’ votes in 2013 as Best Celebration/Special Occasion Restaurant.

320 E. Tennessee St. (850) 513-1100. $$$ D Food Glorious Food American. Choose from several savory soups, nearly a dozen salads and a great selection of sandwiches and pastas with hot entrées representing a variety of world cuisines. Heavenly dessert concoctions will please even the most discriminating diner. 1950 Thomasville Road.

(850) 224-9974. $$$ L D The Front Porch H Southern, Seafood. Located in the heart of Midtown, The Front Porch mixes Southern comfort with fresh seafood to make for one of the finest casual dining experiences in Tallahassee. Stop by for dinner or special Saturday/Sunday brunch. The spacious “front porch” under the oaks earned the restaurant Best Outdoor Dining honors in 2013.

1215 Thomasville Road. (850) 521-5821. $$$ L D Georgio’s American. If George Koikos is in the house, you can count on a visit to your table from him during your meal. His hands-on commitment to quality, food, service and a personal touch have kept his restaurants in business for more than 45 years. 2971 Apalachee Parkway.

(850) 877-3211. $$$ D MICCOSUKEE ROOT CELLAR Fusion. With its hand-hewn décor, organic menu items and seemingly endless supply of artisan crafted beer and wine, the Miccosukee Root Cellar is the place to go when a fresh twist on tradition is what the taste buds order. Menu options include gourmet cheese boards, lemon-roasted Gulf snapper, short ribs and crème brulee. 1311 Miccosukee Road.

(850) 597-7419. $$ D

Treat

Make a RESOLUTION to

The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the Tallahassee Magazine editorial department, except where noted.

Your Palate

Best of Tallahassee 2013 Winner Breakfast/Brunch Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music Bar/Lounge $ Inexpensive $$ Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive ★ B L D

Mockingbird Café Fusion. Enjoy hand-cut steaks and Gulf seafood along with American regional, Mediterranean, Asian and Middle Eastern dishes in an upscale refined atmosphere.

Food is fresh, locally purchased and seasonal, made from scratch by talented in-house chefs. Most nights, your meal will be accompanied by live music.

1225 N. Monroe St. (850) 222-4956. $$ B L D Sage Restaurant H American. Fine dining is about both flavors and atmosphere. Sage’s menu masterfully melds regional influences, including Southern and French, to produce some of the finest cuisine in town — as evidenced by their five Best of Tallahasee 2013 wins — for Best Appetizer, Best Lunch, Best Fine Dining, Best Dessert and Best Locally Owned Restaurant. The setting is gorgeous but cozy, and the outdoor patio sets a charming, romantic tone for a relaxed evening. 3534 Maclay Blvd.

(850) 270-9396. $$$ B L D

228 S Adams Street • 850-222-3444

AndrewsDowntown.com

Cool eats

Specialty 101 Restaurant H American. Readers say 101 has the Best Happy Hour, whether you work 9 to 5 or just want to enjoy a night out with friends.

Guests can choose from a selection of delectable martinis, two-for-ones and a bevy of other drinks. And they have not just one, but two happy hours to choose from — from 4 to 7 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. 215 W. College Ave. (850) 391-1309 $$ B L D Andrew’s Capital Grill and Bar American. A Downtown landmark for 40 years, Andrew’s is an energetic, casual, see-and-be-seen spot. House favorites include a popular lunch buffet, hamburgers, sandwiches, salads and pasta dishes. Downtown delivery.

228 S. Adams St. (850) 222-3444/Fax (850) 222-2433. $$ B L D AZU — a Lucy Ho’s restaurant Asian. Serving Tallahassee since 1970, Lucy Ho’s offers Japanese-style cooking with Cantonese, Sichuan, Hunan, Peking

Hopkins Cobb Salad

Family owned and operated for 30 years Mon-Fri: 11am-9pm | Sat: 11am-5pm Capital Circle Open Sundays hopkinseatery.com NORTH 1660-9 N. Monroe 386-4258

NORTHEAST 1415 Market St. 668-0311

SOUTHEAST 1208 Capital Circle SE 325-6422

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»food DINING GUIDE and Taiwanese influences. Diners also will find a full bar and the freshest sushi.

3220 Apalachee Parkway. (850) 893-4112. $/$$ L D Bella Bella H Italian. Take your taste buds to Italy with a trip to Bella Bella, voted Best Italian by Tallahassee Magazine readers in 2013. This locally owned and operated restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with all the classics to satisfy your pasta cravings. 123 E. 5th Ave. (850) 412-1114. $$ L D Black Fig H Catering. This year, Black Fig snagged the title of Best Catering company. Catering everything from weddings to corporate events, their delicious, fresh cuisine is always presented with flair. 1400 Village Square Blvd. (850) 727-0016. $$ L D Brooklyn Water Bagels and Pizza American. Using the freshest ingredients and an exclusive water treatment process, renowned Brooklyn bagels, coffee and pizza made famous in their original location can now be found in Tallahassee.

CollegeTown, 815 W. Madison St. (850) 765-1058. $ B L D The Cake Shop H Bakery. From your plain vanilla and chocolate to specialties like Snicker’s Candy Bar and Chunky Monkey, The Cake Shop provides delicious cakes, cookies, and cupcakes for special occasions or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. 1908 Capital Circle NE. (850) 386-2253. $ Coosh’s Bayou Rouge H Cajun. This Best Cajun Restaurant winner for 2013 brings the best of the Bayou State right to your table. With a menu jampacked with Louisiana-style dishes, guests can enjoy favorites like jambalaya, red beans ‘n’ rice, crawfish etouffee, po’boys and seafood gumbo. Not in a Cajun mood?

Coosh’s also offers classic hamburgers, salads and chicken wings. 6267 Old Water Oak Rd. (850) 894-4110. $$ B L D The Egg Café And Eatery H American. When you’re looking for breakfast favorites, even if it’s lunchtime, The Egg is the place to be. Made-to-order items use the finest ingredients. Voted Tallahassee’s best nine times, including the 2013 awards for Best Breakfast and Best Brunch. In Evening Rose at 3740 Austin Davis Ave. (850) 907-3447. $$ B L EL JALISCO H Mexican. In the mood for sizzling enchiladas and frozen margaritas? Make your way to El Jalisco, where they do Mexican cuisine to perfection. Enjoy delicious two-for-one margaritas and entrees from a menu that’s sure to satisfy your taste for something south of the border. 2022 N. Monroe St. (850) 878-0800; 2915-301 Kerry Forest Pkwy.

(850) 668-1002; and 6497 Apalachee Pkwy. (850) 402-0733. $ L D

Ginza Red Japanese. In Japan, izakayas are where friends get together after work to relax, similar to our American “Happy Hour.”

Ginza Red Lounge is the perfect place to enjoy sushi and cocktails and experience a izakaya right here in Tallahassee.

CollegeTown, 705 S. Woodward Ave. (850) 273-4026. $$ D HASU Asian. Hasu offers carefully prepared sushi that comes with a great, welcoming atmosphere for those dining in as well as carrying out. Two convenient locations.

3551 Blairstone Road, Suite 132 (850) 671-4278; 1400 Village Square Blvd., Suite 14 (850) 893-4278. $$ L D JOE MAMA’S WOOD FIRED PIZZA Italian. Crisp toppings. Freshly prepared pizza dough. Traditional Tuscan wood-fired oven. What more could you ask for? Joe Mama’s offers quintessential casual Italian dining. 307 N. Monroe St. (850) 577-1231. $ L D ; Kiku Japanese Fusion. With a wide selection of sushi rolls and traditional Japanese dishes, Kiku caters to a variety of tastes.

3491 Thomasville Road Suite 12.

(850) 222-5458. $$ L D Kool Beanz Fusion. This colorful, casual spot has been serving up gourmet dishes since 1996. Diners can expect delicious modern American cuisine, as well as dishes influenced by the worldwide travels of the kitchen staff. Menus change daily so guests can expect something new with each visit.

921 Thomasville Road. (850) 224-2466. $$/$$$ L D Level 8 H Nightclub. This modern downtown rooftop bar at the Hotel Duval is the perfect setting for any get together. The signature martinis, rated as the best by Tallahassee Magazine readers in 2013, are to die for, and the upscale environment sets the bar high, so dress in your best attire and enjoy this center of local nightlife.

415 N. Monroe St. (850) 224-6000. $$ Madison Social American. Whether it’s for a social cocktail, a quick lunch or a place for alumni before home football games, Madison Social offers something for everyone. Six garage doors open to expansive outdoor seating encircling the two distinct bars areas and exposed kitchen. CollegeTown, 705 S. Woodward Ave. (850) 894-6276. $$ L D Masa H Asian Fusion. For another year, Masa earned the title as the Best Sushi in town — and with a good reason. This Japanese fusion restaurant packs bold, delicious flavors into each finely crafted, authentic roll. Masa’s Asian-fusion menu creates dishes blending Eastern and Western cuisine everyone can enjoy. 1001 N. Monroe St. (850) 847-0003. $/$$ L D

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1001 N. Monroe St. (850) 847-0003 | masatallahasee.com

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every first and third Wednesday of the month 5:30-7:30pm • Outstanding small plate menu and desserts • Tallahassee’s only balcony bar overlooking midtown • Great venue for large and small parties

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Monday–Thursday 5:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.

Friday & Saturday 4:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.

Located at the Orleans@Midtown 1240 Thomasville Road 850.222.9914 • thewinelofttallahassee.net

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THE BEST LITTLE STEAKHOUSE IN TALLAHASSEE

»food DINING GUIDE Morelia’s Mexican. Try delicious house specialties like Quesadilla de Camar’on (shrimp) and Tacos de Carne Asada (grilled steak) at dinner along with all the traditional favorites. Lunch specials daily and a kids’ menu, Happy Hour is every day from 5–7 p.m. and a selection of 10 Mexican beers. 1355 Market St. (850) 907-9173. moreliasmexican.com $ L D Old Town Café American. Southern hospitality is embedded throughout this family-owned restaurant. Mom’s meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans makes you feel like you’re home, not to mention their world famous prime rib, which slowly roasts all day. 1415 Timberlane Road.

(850) 893-5741. $$ L D OSAka Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar H Japanese. Rated Best Hibachi for 2013, Osaka provides dinner and a show with chefs seasoning and preparing your meal right in front of you. It’s a meal that’s sure to leave you satisfied as well as entertained. 1690 Raymond Diehl Road.

(850) 531-0222. $$$ D Paisley Café American. Guilt-free lunch has never been easier now that Paisley serves up food with seven natural ingredients or less. Where plantain chips replace greasy potato chips and the tea is sweetened only with Florida cane sugar, this charming Midtown spot boasts a fresh bakery and garden full of wholesome treats. 1123 @ Midtown on Thomasville Road. (850) 385-7268. $ L

Join us for lunch and dinner at our beautiful location on Apalachee Parkway.

Our steaks are not only the best in Tallahassee, but USDA choice midwestern corn-fed beef, specially selected, aged to our specifications and cut daily. We also serve fresh jumbo shrimp and fish – grilled, blackened or fried. So please join us for lunch and dinner or just meet up for drinks at our fully-stocked bar.

F

MARIE LIVINGSTON’S STEAK HOUSE

2705 Apalachee Parkway | Tallahassee, FL (850) 270-9506

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Primetime Lounge and Restaurant H American. With 40 high-definition televisions, two 15-foot projector screens and gourmet choices, Primetime Lounge and Restaurant has revolutionized sports watching and earned kudos as Best Sports Bar. Guys, grab your favorite brew, and ladies, order a delicious cocktail from the one-of-a-kind frost-top bar.

1921 W. Tennessee St. (850) 329-7148. $$ L D Samba Cantina Brazilian/Mexican Fusion. Classic Mexican and Brazilian dishes are spiced up with modern culinary techniques that reflect the vibrancy of Latin culture.

CollegeTown, 705 S. Woodward Ave. (850) 283-4002 $ L D Taco Republik American/Worldwide Fusion. An authentic taqueria, Taco Republik specializes in creating tacos and burritos in abstract and delicious ways. Located in the heart of Midtown, this restaurant is beloved for bold flavor combinations and wallet-friendly prices. 705 South Woodward Ave., (850) 559-5464. $ L D

THE WINE LOFT Wine Bar H American. When it’s part of your name, of course you’re going to be named as the Best of in 2013. Midtown’s Wine Loft features a variety of worldly wines and bartenders who love to experiment.

For parties large and small, or a solitary swirl and sip, The Wine Loft is ready to help you relax and enjoy the evening.

1240 Thomasville Road, Suite 100. (850) 222-9914. thewinelofttallahassee.net. $$ D

Family/Casual CANOPY ROAD CAFÉ American. Combine fresh ingredients, made-to-order dishes and a welcoming staff, and you have the components of a deliciously successful restaurant. This casual, family-style restaurant proclaims itself a “greasy-spoon diner meets modern Southern cafe.” 1913 N. Monroe St. (850) 668-6600; 2202 Capital Circle N.E. (850) 893-0466. $ B L CHICKEN SALAD CHICK H Southern. It’s hard to go wrong when you combine chicken and mayo. But Chicken Salad Chick exceeds expectations, with 15 different chicken salads to choose from — each with its own unique flavor — served in a bright setting that earned it Best Casual Dining honors in 2013.

There are also deli sandwiches, side items and soups, and a cookie of the day.

1410 Market Street, D-3. (850) 894-2502. $L D Hopkins’ Eatery H American. This deli provides more than just your average sandwich. Favorites like the Ultimate Turkey and the Linda Special and a variety of salad meals keep customers coming back for more.

And it’s healthful, too! 1660 N. Monroe St. (850) 386-4258; 1415 Market St. (850) 668-0311, and 1208 Capital Circle S.E. (850) 325-6422. hopkinseatery.com $L JERSEY MIKE’S American. With the atmosphere of a classic sub shop, Jersey Mike’s serves up fresh-sliced, authentic Northeast-style subs (with some of the best fresh-baked bread in town). 1801 W. Tennessee St., (850) 765-0712; 3122 Mahan Drive No. 301, (850) 727-5358; 1970 Gainsborough Lane, SouthWood. (850) 765-1259; 1355 Market St., Suite A6, (850) 320-6210. $L D Juicy Blue American Tapas. In the new Four Points by Sheraton Downtown this cool newcomer offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Unique offerings include tapas with a unique twist like the Georgia peaches and caramel.

Sandwiches, salads and a nice variety of seafood, pasta and chicken dishes round out the menu. Local coffee bar Redeye is located in the lobby. 316 W. Tennessee St. (850) 422-0071. $ B L D

ARTISAN PIZZAS, CRAFT BEERS AND A FULL WINE LIST

MOMO’S H Pizza. After devouring a slice “as big as your head” at this 2013 Best Pizza winner, chain pizza simply is not gonna cut it.

From the black-and-white photos to the bathrooms decorated in album covers the restaurant has an unmistakable and enjoyable “hole in the wall” vibe.

1410 Market St. (850) 412-0222; and 1416 W. Tennessee St. (850) 224-9808. $ L D

Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina Mexican. It’s a fiesta every day at Pepper’s.

Enjoy mariachi music as you chow down on fajitas, enchiladas, quesadillas and other Mexican specialties served with their homemade sauces. 1140 Capital Circle S.E. (850) 877-2020. $ L D Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q H Barbecue. Nothing satisfies a rumblin’ stomach quite like a plateful of hot, savory barbeque; and if you’re looking for the tastiest grilled dishes, 2013 Best Barbecue winner Sonny’s has them in spades.

3101 Dick Wilson Blvd. (850) 878-1185; 2707 N. Monroe St. (850) 385-2167; and 1460 Timberlane Road (850) 906-9996. $ L D Starbucks H American. Whether you’re craving a Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino or a simple cup o’ joe, Starbucks provides a wide variety of beverages that will satisfy even the most adventurous caffeine addict. The 2013 Best Coffee Shop winner offers free Wi-Fi and a delicious selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries and ice cream. 2264-1 N. Monroe St. (850) 386-2417; 3425 Thomasville Rd. (850) 894-7005; and 2120 Apalachee Pkwy. (850) 671-2041. $ B L Street Chefs H American. Tallahassee residents flock to the Street Chefs’ truck for modern twists on classic comfort food items like “Not Your Mama’s Grilled Cheese Sandwich.”

Established in 2011, the truck and its chef, Rebecca Kelly, made a name for themselves as Tallahassee’s Best Food Truck in 2013. $ L D THE LUNCH BOX American. This iconic little café conveniently nestled at the corner of Mahan and Magnolia offers up home-style breakfasts and plenty of lunch items to choose from. Dine in, take out and outdoor seating is available. 295 N. Magnolia Drive.

(850) 942-9766. $ B L TOMATOLAND American. This takeout-only deli offers comfort food staples for breakfast and lunch such as quiches, a variety of salads and sandwiches, and a daily blueplate special. 1847 Thomasville Road.

(850) 425-8416. $ L D UP IN SMOKE PIT BBQ Barbecue. While their barbecue is certainly succulent, Up in Smoke’s other menu options — including fried green tomatoes, meatloaf and grilled salmon — cater

to even the pickiest of palates.

402 Tennessee St. (850) 597-7964. $B L D Vertigo Burgers and Fries H American. The No. 1 spot for hamburgers in 2013 went to Vertigo, home to some of the juiciest, funkiest burgers in town.

The modern building provides a no-frills setting to enjoy such favorites as: the Vertigo Burger, a beef patty with fried egg, applewood bacon, grilled jalapenos, sharp cheddar and Vertigo sauce. 1395 E. Lafayette St. (850) 878-2020. $$ L D Wingstop H American. After being voted Best Wings in town for the eighth year in a row, it’s safe to say that this joint is the ultimate source for chicken wings. Wingstop offers a variety of homemade sides and 10 mouthwatering flavors for their wings. 1964 W. Tennessee St. (850) 574-9464; 3111 Mahan Dr. (850) 942-9464; and 6668 Thomasville Rd. (850) 219-9464. $L D

Steak/Seafood Bonefish Grill H American. With countless perfectly cooked, succulent seafood items to choose from, in addition to delicious “turf” options for those who do not enjoy their food from the “surf,” it’s no wonder Tallahassee Magazine readers selected Bonefish Grill as its favorite Seafood Restaurant in 2013.

3491 Thomasville Rd. (850) 297-0460. $$$ D

JOEMAMASPIZZA.COM 1307 N. Monroe Street 850-577-1231

The city’s oldest farmers market, offering locally grown and regionally sourced vegetables and fruits, local beef, pecans, honey and more!

SATURDAYS 8AM-5PM 1415 TIMBERLANE RD MARKET SQUARE s

S e r v in g B re ak fa s t, Br unch & Lu n c h

Marie Livingston’s Steakhouse H Steak. Dining at Marie Livingston’s is upscale yet comfortable and always a special treat. Not just a restaurant that serves up savory cuts of prime rib or marbled steaks, this 2013 Best Steakhouse winner is a Tallahassee tradition, and newcomers owe it to themselves to make it a priority to visit. 2705 Apalachee Parkway.

(850) 562-2525. $$ L D Shula’s 347 Steak. The legendary Miami Dolphins’ head coach brings the quest for perfection to the dining table at his namesake restaurant, located in Hotel Duval. Keep it light and casual with Premium Black Angus Beef burgers or a gourmet salad or opt for one of their signature entrées — “Shula Cut” steaks. Reservations are suggested.

415 N. Monroe St. (850) 224-6005. $$$ D Southern Seafood H American. Whether you’re looking for fish, shrimp, oysters, scallops, crab or lobster, these guys have you covered. The 2013 Best Seafood Market winner brings the ocean’s freshest choices to Tallahassee’s front door.

1415 Timberlane Road. (850) 668-2203.

Visit our comprehensive, searchable dining guide online at tallahasseemagazine.com/Restaurants

The Egg Cafe & Eatery 3740 Austin Davis Ave. T – Sun 7 AM – 2 PM (850) 765-0703 The Egg Express (R.A. Gray Building) 500 South Bronough, Room G-22 M - F 7:30 AM - 3 PM | Sat 10 AM - 3 PM (850) 907-EGGS (3447) Lite Breakfast Fare

Great Food dss nd Great Frien g Warm & Invitin Atmosphere Upscale Tastes ices at Affordable Pr

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»the last word

‘Stuff’ and ‘Things’ And How Micro-Disaster Taught Me the Difference Between Them

By Laura Bradley Throughout elementary school, my teachers had lists of words and phrases we were not allowed to use. “Nice” and “cool” were forbidden — branded as unspecific cop-out adjectives. “I think” was banned for being redundant. For one teacher, “stuff” was Public Enemy No. 1.

“Stuff,” was looked down upon for its lack of specificity, but there was another, more important, reason. “Stuff” was irreverent. It reflected a lack of appreciation for items on their own, as objects to cherish.

But its banishment from our lexicon left a void: “If we can’t say ‘stuff,’ what do we call ‘stuff’?” asked one of my classmates. Our teachers suggested the word “things” as an elegant, more respectful alternative to “stuff.” But I always grudgingly held that the two are not at all synonymous. On July 4th last year that belief was vindicated at long last.

I awoke that morning to a loud crashing noise. My eyes shot open to see my ceiling falling down toward me, stopped only by my canopy bed frame. A tree had crashed through my roof. After some screaming and hysterical hyperventilating, I ran out of my room and away from the giant hole in my ceiling, through which I could now see some snapped trusses — and the sky beyond.

After some phone calls and frantic pacing, it became clear I needed to get out of the house as quickly as possible. In order, I grabbed: my dog (who I had to hoist out a window into the rain, since the front door was blocked by branches); my laptop and charger; gorgeous Dior stilettos my mother hand-me-down gifted me; and some important documents and undeposited checks.

Before the disaster occurred, I had already been downsizing because I was preparing to uproot my life and move across the country for grad school. By August, all of my worldly possessions needed to fit in my car (a garnet Toyota Yaris I lovingly nicknamed “The Kidney Bean”). Going through all of my items and categorizing them with the usual labels of “donate/sell,” “trash” and “keep” had me thinking a lot about “stuff.”

I had an easy time clearing out trash. Throwing away unwanted clothing was a cinch. But after the obvious, I had been finding it very difficult to narrow down what I needed and valued, and what I had that was just lying around.

Now I know: Nothing shows what you actually value better than what you grab when you think your house will collapse in 24 hours.

My most valued and valuable possessions made it out with me on the first pass: my lifelong companion, my main source of productivity, one of my possessions of highest monetary (and materialistic,

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if we’re being honest) value and pieces of paper with huge societal/ bureaucratic value.

The items I salvaged from my apartment upon returning were “things.” I valued them individually, enough to remember to grab them when rushed and numb with shock. My grandfather’s behemoth of a heavy typewriter from Cuba. Clothes I wear often.

Crucial electronics. Important jewelry and expensive cosmetics.

Books that managed to stay dry. Important sentimental tokens from friends and moments past.

“Stuff ” is what I grabbed as days wore on: dishes, less-important jewelry, small electronics I don’t use often, and tchotchkes collected over the years. A couple weeks earlier, I thought all of this was necessary, but my willingness to leave it in the house says otherwise. These are the things I disregarded and forgot when faced with a snap decision (although I had once regarded them as a collection of items symbolizing me and where I had been). These are the things I knew in my heart I did not need to be happy. These things are “stuff.”

I recovered a lot of “stuff” from the apartment, cleaning it out so my landlord could repair the structure. I sold or threw most of it away. “Stuff” is gotten rid of as we make transitions. It’s an act that demarcates a turning point from who we were and what we once did to what we are becoming and what we will do. “Things” stay with us as we move along — each getting its own place among the cluttered car that gets us there.

So sorry to inform you, teachers of my past, “stuff” is an invaluable word. At the risk of sounding cliché, corny or pretentious, “stuff” by any other name is simply not the same “thing.” n

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