17 minute read
GREEN SCENE
GREEN SCENE
COLD-WEATHER PLANT CARE
Cover but don’t smother when temperatures plummet
by LES HARRISON
Many homeowners and landscape managers want to know when their plants will need protection from the cold. Depending on the plant, the point of freezing is a good rule of thumb.
It is worth noting there is a difference in the terms used for cold weather conditions. Frost, freeze and hard freeze all describe different circumstances.
Frost occurs when water vapor freezes on surfaces. It usually happens on clear nights with still air and can happen when reported air temperatures are above freezing.
Freezing is when cold air moves in and causes temperatures to drop below 32 degrees
Fahrenheit. This condition commonly involves low humidity and wind, making drying out a big problem for plants.
A hard freeze is when temperatures dip below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours.
Some tropical plants will survive a few degrees below freezing for very short periods, but extended periods of freezing or heavy frost may require a heater used safely in combination with a plant covering.
The risk of losing plants to freeze damage is compounded during the hectic holiday season. People are busy, schedules are disrupted and the distractions, pleasant thought they be, may cause homeowners to miss a critical freeze alert in the media.
The holiday distractions are a good reason to prepare now for the problem weather likely to come later.
Plants in containers can be moved indoors for the holidays and incorporated into the interior décor. If outside, cover plants entirely without crushing. Heavy blankets are great insulation but only a good idea on the sturdiest of plants.
Remove the covers if the temperature is above 55 degrees the next day.
Colorizing winterscapes
Adding color to the home landscape is possible with the use of many “cool-season” annuals. Most are exotic species, but there are some naturally occurring natives which brighten the area. Under pine trees, common blue violets add azure tones. Viola sororia, the scientific name for this native plant, provides a stark color contrast to the leaf litter and pine needles where it thrives. This delicate herbaceous plant is an early bloomer with inchwide blooms that are typically bluish-purple. These violets are self-pollinating perennials that flourish in the filtered light under tree canopies. The heavy mulch layer in forest settings provides the consistently moist soil and ample organic matter for successful growth. Seed heads form in the late summer and early autumn and are scatted by birds, animals and weather events. The Roundleaf Bluet (Houstonia procumbens), sometimes called “Innocence,” may be seen peering through dead grass and pine needles. This tiny white flower is about the size of a dime and appears in clusters. The blooms have four evenly spaced petals and prefer filtered light and heavy mulch, like the violet. This perennial is native to the lower southeastern U.S. and gradually fades away as the days become warmer.
Les Harrison is a retired University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Wakulla County extension director.
The cooler months on the Emerald Coast see limited insect activity, but a few do persist. One such hardy species is a beetle known
PATENT LEATHER scientifically as Odontotaenius disjunctus. Commonly known as a Bess bug, the Jerusalem beetle or the patent leather beetle, it is BEETLES a member of the superfamily Scarabaeoidea, which has only a few members found within the United States. Its home territory ranges from Florida to Canada’s deciduous forests. The easily recognizable beetle can grow to more than an inch and a half in length. They are a shiny coal black with a small horn between their eyes and club-shaped antenna. One survival key to this beetle is what and where it eats. Patent-leather beetles like to eat logs of certain trees, mostly the deciduous varieties, such as oaks and wax myrtles. Wood inhabited by these beetles is usually well decomposed and readily crumbles when handled, falls or is moved from its settling site. Adult beetles inhabit fallen trunks and limbs, provided the wood is large enough to support the original settlers and the extended family. Using its large mandibles, the homesteader cuts into fallen logs and creates galleries where beetles will live and reproduce. Many patent leather beetles live together in close colonies. Adults commonly live over a year, prospering with the ups and downs of the thermometer. Harmless to humans, the patent-leather beetle is considered beneficial because it breaks down dead wood into a form usable by plants.
On Jan. 29, 2022, the Cordova Mall Ball will once again be a dazzling, live event, but this year’s version will feature the debut of an exciting, new benevolent association. Autumn and Peyton Blackledge are inaugural chairpersons of the official Krewe of Les Petits Enfants (Order of the Small Children), named in honor of those it will help support. With an initial goal of 50 participants, the krewe’s membership fee will go toward the purchase of a neonatal transport unit for Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation coordinates the Cordova Mall Ball as one of its major fundraising events benefitting sick and injured children. This year’s goal is raising the $350,000 needed to purchase the highly specialized vehicle, which is capable of transporting newborns and children 5 and under. The Krewe of Les Petits Enfants’ admission fee of $1,000 will supplement the Mall Ball’s proceeds for the purchase. Both natives of Pensacola, Autumn is a longtime member of Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation’s Board, while husband Peyton is a professional firefighter in the city of Milton. Autumn attended Tate High School, while Peyton went to Washington High. Still, they are amazed that they never came across each other as teens. But Peyton theorizes,
“I grew up with a kind of downtown crowd, and Autumn was more of a north-end girl.” Opened in 2014, the law firm of Autumn Beck Blackledge PLLC concentrates on family and marital law. She met Peyton, her future husband, that same year, and their marriage resulted in a blended family of five children. Today, the eldest is stationed with the Navy in England, while the other four teens are in every grade at Catholic High School — from freshman to senior. Autumn and Peyton are delighted that they’ve been given the opportunity to kick off a krewe at Northwest Florida’s largest Mardi Gras Ball of the season. But what inspires them the most about this project is that children will be the focus and the face of the krewe. Autumn explains, “Our vision is not only in the krewe’s name ‘For the Little Ones,’ but also featuring the little ones — the children in need, the children who will need the services of Studer Family Children’s Hospital, and the children whose parents have decided to invest and give.” Autumn was taught at an early age that, “You give your talents, you give your time, you give your treasure.” She and Peyton are trying to impress this mindset upon their children: when you are blessed with more, you need to give back to help those less fortunate. They recognize that children need to learn early on what giving is all about, or the community’s future charitable needs will not be met. Once they learn, they can carry on this tradition of giving later in life. Introducing kids to the Krewe of Les Petits Enfants through their parent’s membership will be a valuable first step, and the hope is to create generations of givers. They understand that community involvement is truly necessary to make any charitable undertaking successful. The Cordova Mall Ball has always been well-attended and highly successful because it is an opportunity to have a good time while supporting a worthy cause. Autumn and Peyton believe that there are more people out there who would contribute to the needs of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital if the right opportunity arose. These people might never have considered being part of a Mardi Gras event, but the Krewe of Les Petits Enfants — with its emphasis on children — hopefully will appeal to them when they realize that it will be their “kids raising money for kids.” And it will give all Mall Ball attendees the opportunity to meet people they have never met. The Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation’s Mardi Gras mission raises money for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, and through this event, the children of krewe members will be introduced to the hospital. They will learn what it’s all about, its significance for kids, and how their parents’ krewe participation will benefit the facility. Autumn and Peyton are staunch advocates of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital and consider it a blessing to have this resource “in our own backyard.” When their daughter was injured in a car accident, she was transported to its emergency room, where the care she received was exceptional. From the perspective of a fireman, Peyton expresses concern that the community sometimes seems to take for granted the presence of this amazing trauma center. It is often mentioned during his training that children from Tallahassee, Baldwin County, Brewton and the Mobile region are flown to the Studer Family Children’s Hospital for treatment. “Being as we are not a large community, it is an enormous benefit and opportunity for the children in our area,” he says. “Care for children can remain right here where they reside.”
A MESSAGE FROM CAROL CARLAN
Once again, we find ourselves in the midst of mankind’s most celebrated season: A time to pause and reflect on the gift of the Christ Child. These Stories from the Heart are reminders of how our ministry continues to give thanks for that gift by ensuring that no child in need goes without the best possible healthcare. The Cordova Mall Ball, one of Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation’s major community events, returns live on Jan. 29, 2022, featuring the debut of the official Mardi Gras Krewe of Les Petits Enfants (Order of the Small Children). Autumn and Peyton Blackledge’s Story from the Heart details their efforts as the inaugural chairs of this new krewe, whose focus will be kids. Its membership fee will contribute to the purchase of a neonatal transport unit for Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, which is the fundraising goal of all proceeds from the upcoming Ball. Another story highlights the annual Dance Marathon at University of West Florida campus. This student-centered, communitysupported event features hours of dancing and games to raise funds for the needs of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Finally, our Stories from the Heart introduce the Foundation’s much-valued 2022 board membership. Wishing you a joyous Christmas and blessings in the coming new year,
Carol Carlan President, Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation
UWF Dance Marathon Dances on Despite Challenges
For six years, Dance Marathon has put its best foot forward on the campus of the University of West Florida in Pensacola, all to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The daylong event requires a year’s worth of planning and initiatives — culminating in 10 hours of dancing, games and camaraderie to raise funds and awareness for sick and injured children at hospitals, like our local Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. Taylor Kindler has been part of the event for three years, progressing from team captain to board member to executive director. A senior at UWF, the nursing major says she was inspired to get involved with Dance Marathon because of her passion to help people. But when COVID-19 changed the world, the event had to undergo changes to keep fighting for the kids. Taylor was a big part of that push, brainstorming ways to continue fundraising during a time when it was nearly impossible to meet in person. In a “normal year,” UWF holds various fundraising events and spirit nights at local restaurants leading up to the Dance Marathon. On event day, participants are taught a new dance progression every hour. There are games and challenges and it’s a great time for all, including families who have benefited from the care of Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. “The families come and speak and share their stories,” Taylor says. “The kids are on stage dancing, and it’s a really fun time as we recognize our yearlong efforts and how they impact the families.” In 2021, Taylor and her team had to get creative. All of the fundraisers prior to the big day were held virtually. Then, Dance Marathon was hosted outside for the first time in UWF history, with a limit of 50 participants at any given time. The rest of the party took place on the communications platform that made a name for itself during quarantine — Zoom. “During COVID-19, we thought it would be safer for the families to stay home, so a lot of our engagement came from participants online,” Taylor says. “Carter Harrison, our local Children’s Miracle Network champion, joined in for an online dinner so his family could tell their story and tie in to why we have Dance Marathon.” Still, despite the circumstances, through virtual parties and live-streamed dancing, the UWF team managed to raise $42,732 for the kids. Without Taylor and her team, this year’s event may never have happened. The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart recently opened the Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope, made possible in part by annual donations from the UWF Dance Marathon. The hospital plans to continue its expansion of specialized care units, all designed with our community’s children in mind. “I think there’s a big misconception that Dance Marathon is only for the university, but the whole community comes together to fight for children’s health, and having this event on campus is such an impactful thing,” Taylor said.
To learn more about UWF Dance Marathon and how you can get involved, please visit DanceMarathon. ChildrensMiracleNetworkHospitals.org.
PROMOTION calendar For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and 850tix.com. compiled by JAVIS OGDEN, REBECCA PADGETT FRETT AND ZANDRA WOLFGRAM DEC 2021/JAN 2022
JAN. 14–17 30A Songwriters Festival
→ The 30A Songwriters Festival, co-produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and Russell Carter Artist Management, celebrates 13 years in 2022 as over 250 artists perform original songs in more than 30 venues and dedicated listening rooms throughout the South Walton area of Northwest Florida.
For more information, visit 30ASongwritersFestival.com.
DEC. 9–19 ‘MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET’
→ Staged as a 1940s live radio play, this version is the classic cup of nostalgic Christmas cheer we all look forward to during the holiday season. When a department store Santa claims he’s the real Kris Kringle, the Supreme Court takes up his case, and a little girl’s ability to believe may determine the fate of Christmas.
Purchase tickets online at EmeraldCoastTheatre.org.
DEC. 10
SINFONIA GULF COAST HOLIDAY POPS
Featuring Nicholas Rodriguez
→ Put a song in your heart this season. From holiday classics to Broadway and The Great American Songbook, this festive celebration of music, featuring powerhouse performer singer/actor Nicholas Rodriguez accompanied by Sinfonia’s orchestra, will put everyone in the spirit. The performance will be held at the Village Church in Destin.
Purchase tickets at SinfoniaGulfCoast.org.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Pandemic and social distancing policies may affect gatherings. Check websites to see if the listed events will occur as scheduled. HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE US TO CONSIDER?
WEDNESDAY NIGHT HOLIDAY CONCERT SERIES
DEC. 1, 8, 15
For the first three Wednesdays in December, enjoy your favorite holiday classics and carols. Each concert will feature a festive, choreographed light show and visits from Santa.
baytownewharf.com
DEC. 3, 4, 10, 11
You’ll be spirited away by this new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fantastical coming-of-age adventure inspired by the hit Disney movie Frozen. With an original pop-rock score, alluring ballads, urban steampunk flair and the enigmatic Snow Queen, you’ll soon see this is not your typical bedtime story.
emeraldcoasttheatre.org/ on-stage
TUBA CHRISTMAS
DEC. 11
Enjoy some of your favorite holiday classics with Tuba Christmas and visits with Santa at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. It will be a night of fun for the whole family!
REGIONAL FEB. 27 & MAR. 3-5 — SAVE THE DATE CLEAVER AND CORK FEATURES CHEF AARÓN SÁNCHEZ
→ Cleaver and Cork presents a four-day progressive dining experience featuring the culinary delights of award-winning chef, television personality, author and philanthropist Aarón Sánchez. Attend one or all of the events including Progressive Cocktail Party (Feb. 27), Cooking Demonstration (March 3), Signature Dinner (March 4), and Uncorked Food and Wine Festival (March 5). Tickets are on sale for this four-part culinary extravaganza expertly crafted by the Tallahassee Community College Foundation.
For details, visit CleaverAndCorkTCC.com.
BAYTOWNE COUNTDOWN NYE
DEC. 31
Ring in the New Year with an evening to remember, including two breathtaking fireworks displays at 8 p.m. and midnight. Enjoy a family-friendly evening with face painting, kids activities and live music on the Baytowne live stage. Dance the night away with live music from 7 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the Events Plaza Stage. End the night with a spectacular midnight fireworks show.
baytownewharf.com
PENSACOLA NEW YEAR’S EVE
DEC. 31
Head to downtown Pensacola to say goodbye to 2021 and hello to 2022 with live music, vendors and an impressive midnight fireworks show.
downtownpensacola.com
SOLARIS NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORK CRUISE
DEC. 31
Cruise, dance, drink and dine the night away aboard a SunQuest Cruise Solaris yacht, complete with a midnight fireworks show and champagne toast.
sunquestcruises.com
THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET
JAN. 7 more than 150 million records, they helped establish Billy Joel’s signature sound, and they continue to perform their legendary hits to this day. The Piano Man’s original band mates — Doug Stegmeyer, Liberty DeVitto, Russell Javors and Richie Cannata — are the Lords of 52nd Street and they are coming to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center.
mattiekellyartscenter.org/events
CLASSICAL CONNECTIONS: AN EVENING WITH CHRIS BRUBECK AND TIME FOR THREE
JAN. 8
Grammy-nominated composer Chris Brubeck continues to distinguish himself as an innovative performer. An awardwinning composer, he is tuned in to the pulse of contemporary music and no stranger to the Sinfonia stage. Paired with Time For Three, Brubeck will furnish a jam session culminating in the Southeast U.S. premier of his concerto titled Travels in Time for Three.
sinfoniagulfcoast.org
JAN. 21-23
This latest Broadway hit takes us back to the 50s where we meet four teenage girls on prom night. We learn about their lives and loves through laughter and song including 50s and 60s hit songs galore.
emeraldcoasttheatre.org/on-stage
JAN. 27
In Scooby-Doo! and The Lost City of Gold, fans of music, adventure and gh-gh-ghosts won’t need a passport to travel with Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Daphne, Fred and Velma to Alta Luz, a fictitious South American town where ghostly sightings of La Dama de Oro (The Lady In Gold) threaten to scare attendees away from the annual music festival and Incan sun god celebration.
mattiekellyartscenter.org/events
JAN. 28–FEB. 6
This smash Broadway hit will have you roaring with laughter as Miss Abigail indulges the audience with her vast array of dating and love advice. Audience participation is key to this variety show.
emeraldcoasttheatre.org/on-stage
PROMOTION
FEB. 18-20
Seaside School Half-Marathon & 5K
→ The 2022 Seaside School Half Marathon + 5K is coming back live and in person for the 20th running on Feb. 20, 2022. A true weekend experience, this three-day event kicks off with amazing coastal cuisine at the Taste of the Race on Friday, Feb. 18, 2022, plenty of fun for all ages at the Race Expo on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, and the running of the Half Marathon + 5K along the iconic Highway 30A starting and finishing in Seaside on Sunday, Feb. 20, 2022.
