652-C Capital Circle NE Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 942-1400 VectorSecurity.com
2184 Lake Hall Rd Tallahassee, FL 32309 (850) 297-1882 SuperiorPainting.net
2098 Thomasville Road Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 576-0002 MyWBU.com/Tallahassee
2098 Thomasville Road | (850) 576-0002 Shop online at MyWBU.com/Tallahassee
To learn more about becoming a SouthWood Advisor, contact Laura Kalinoski at laura@SouthWoodlivingmag.com or Matt Oestreich at matt@SouthWoodlivingmag.com
by Janet Swanson
Normally around this time of year, I try to make some suggestions on looking ahead and tackling some of the upcoming items on our “to do” list, so we can be ahead of schedule. This month, I want us to begin thinking about Halloween costumes now rather than waiting till mid October. We all have seen the costumes making their arrival in the stores and the children are beginning to talk about them. Why not have the children make their final decisions on the costumes they want this year, get them purchased, or ordered online, or shop for the items you will need if making the costumes yourself. If you purchase or order them now, not only will the children have the costumes they want, but that’s one item crossed off your list of things to do! If you and your children are making costumes, now is the time to begin to shop for the supplies you need and get the costumes made, so you too can cross this item off your list early.
If you are ordering your children’s costumes online, be sure to take careful measurements of your child and compare them to the sizing of the actual costume you wish to order. The children are growing so quickly, and careful measuring will ensure their costumes will fit perfectly. Don’t just rely on small and medium sizing. Check all costume measurements carefully to save yourself and your children any last-minute anxiety caused by a costume that is too small or fits poorly.
Maybe you would like to create a costume for your children but just can’t decide on what it should be. The internet has a great selection of costume ideas for you with easy instructions to very detailed ones depending on the costume you have in mind and your comfortable skill set.
In addition to the Halloween costumes, will your child’s teacher be planning a fall party for the classroom? Are you planning on having
a social gathering at your house for Halloween? Now is the time to begin planning and purchasing all the nonperishable party items you can, such as tableware, decorations, chips/snacks, etc. It is so much easier to pick these things up now, rather than the stress of making lastminute dashes to the grocery store.
As we continue to move through this month and into October, why not pick up a few packages of construction paper, glue, stickers, and any other small decorations you choose and on the days that your kids are underfoot and you are trying to get your own tasks completed, give them these items and have them make Halloween decorations for your home. The children could decorate their own bedroom doors and have a door competition with a fun prize for the winner. You would be so surprised what joy a package of construction paper, glue, and stickers will do to keep the younger children happily entertained.
9/2 Labor Day- No School
9/5 Middle School Open House
9/11 Interim Reports
10/18 End of 1st Nine Weeks
10/24-25 Worlds of Work
10/30 Report Cards
9/2 Labor Day- No School
9/13 ½ Day School Release at Noon
9/24 Senior Dress Down Day
10/4 Feast of St. Francis
10/11 End of 1st Quarter Pep Rally
10/12 Homecoming Dance
10/14 Data Day ½ Day School Release at Noon
10/22 Feast of John Paul II Blessing of Classrooms
10/24-25 Leon County World of Works
10/29 Senior Dress Down Day
9/2 Labor Day- No School
9/11 Interim Reports
9/16 High School Open House
10/18 End of 1st Nine Weeks
10/24-25 Worlds of Work
10/30 Report Cards
9/1 Labor Day- No School
9/4 STEMNola Learning Event
9/5 Elementary Picture Day
9/6 Secondary Picture Day
9/10 Senior Picture Retake
Grades 11-12 FAST Retake
9/11 Algebra & Geometry Retakes
9/17 All-State Orchestra Auditions
9/18 Club Rush
Early Release Day 11:30a
9/20 Middle School “Back to School Glow Dance”
9/28 Dance Marathon Dinner Fundraiser
10/2 PSAT
10/4 Press The Chest
10/5 Big Bend Marching Showcase
• 8 whole graham crackers, crushed
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ cup confectioners' sugar
• 2 (1.5 ounce) bars milk chocolate candy bars (such as Hershey's®)
• 12 large marshmallows, cut in half crosswise
• 1 dash red food coloring, or as needed
• 24 semisweet chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Stir graham cracker crumbs, butter, and confectioners' sugar together in a bowl; mix until evenly moistened and press into an ungreased mini-muffin pan to form shallow cups.
Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are bubbling, about 5 minutes.
9/2 Labor Day- No School
9/11 Interim Reports
10/18 End of 1st Nine Weeks
10/24-25 Worlds of Work
10/30 Report Cards
Break each chocolate bar into 12 equal pieces; place one piece into each graham cracker cup.
Paint red circles and lines to resemble blood-shot eyes on top of each marshmallow using red food coloring.
Place painted marshmallows, painted-sides up, into graham cracker cups. Press 1 chocolate chip into the center of each .
Bake in the preheated oven until marshmallows are slightly softened, 1 to 2 minutes. Cool in pan for 15 minutes before removing.
by
/ MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS /
Meet the Chambers family, Blake and Ashley and their children, Marshall, age 7, and Olivia "Livie", age 2.
When Ashley moved here while working for Governor Rick Scott, she and Blake met at work. They just celebrated their 9th anniversary. Rosemary Beach and 30a hold a special place in their story- they have vacationed there, first said "I love you" to each other, got engaged there and were married there as well!
Born and raised in Tallahassee, FL, Blake is in IT with Easy Territory - a local software company providing mapping application services for sales and field service territories for businesses across the globe. He received his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (IT) from Florida State University. He is a veteran of the United States Army and was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ashley is Texas-born, but raised mostly in Little Rock, Arkansas, Ashley graduated magna com laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Baylor University ("Sic 'em Bears!").
In regard to the faith and family principles they live by they say:
She worked for President George W. Bush after graduating college through the end of his term. She was a political appointee conducting press advance for events with staff and US Secret Service in the US and for international trips. She also served at the US Department of Commerce and US Department of Justice in communications and legislative affairs positions. She remained at the DOJ until 2010 when she was asked to come work for Rick Scott's gubernatorial primary campaign in Florida. She relocated from Washington, D.C. to Tallahassee after working for the campaign and Inaugural Committee where she led Press Advance and media relations. She served as a Communications Director in Rick Scott's administration (Department of Elder Affairs) and continued for a year into Governor Ron DeSantis' first term. She left at the end of 2019 to join the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, a leading
trade association representing Florida's top hospitality and tourism Industry. She serves as Communications Director.
"Our kiddos keep us busy with activities. Marshall has played soccer, t-ball, and basketball - a skilled lefthander! Currently, we stay busy with martial arts for Marshall at Tiger Rock where he is a blue belt level 2- and he just started flag football. We are hoping to get Livie started in gymnastics soon. You can usually find us at SouthWood events and the SouthWood pool spending time with other our wonderful neighbors. Marshall is a second grader at FSUS and Livie loves being with her friends and teachers at Creative Child Learning Center in Southwood," Ashley tells us.
The furriest members of the Chambers family are Lincoln and Franklin, their cats. Ashley tells us she loves history and names her cats after historical figures
(Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, and FDR to name a few.)
Ashley tells us, "I have lived in Southwood since 2011, first at two townhomes near town center. Once Blake and I were married, we moved in together on Yeats Avenue where we were for 5 years. We moved to Lantana Lane in Woodland Fields in September of 2021 when we needed more space when Olivia joined the family."
"We love the neighborhood! We take advantage of the many amenities and love having a walkable neighborhood with family friendly functions and gatherings, and we LOVE the people here. We have the best neighbors! Blake is one of the charter members of the Southwood Veterans Club. Marshall plays on the Broncos flag football team with Tallahassee Parks and Rec with many neighbor friends."
As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for the cooler months. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your haven of comfort stays warm, inviting and energy-efficient throughout fall and winter.
Consider these home projects from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products – a leader throughout North America in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – based on Zonda’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report to get your home ready for the cooler seasons.
New garage doors typically come with energy-efficient features and advanced security measures but are also relatively lowcost updates compared to the significant perceived value and resale benefits. In fact, replacing a garage door boasts a 193% return on investment, according to the report. Pairing new garage doors with updated trim can also offer a tight seal from exterior elements such as wind, snow and water.
Insulate for a Warmer Interior
Insulated siding can play a crucial role in enhancing your home’s thermal performance. By providing an additional layer of protection, it helps reduce heat loss, ensuring your home remains warm and your energy bills stay manageable. Plus, according to the report, vinyl siding replacement has an 80.2% return on investment. An option like CraneBoard Solid Core Siding from Westlake Royal Building Products offers superior durability and insulation. Its solid core construction provides added strength and impact resistance while also contributing to better energy efficiency. In addition, the solid core reduces external noise and is designed to endure extreme weather conditions.
Windows can be substantial energy drainers and let warmth out when they’re not properly sealed. If you notice a draft coming in around your windows, sealing cracks or gaps with aesthetically pleasing trim can make a significant difference in keeping the heat in and chilly air out. For extreme drafts, consider replacing windows altogether, which can provide sellers with
an average 67.1% return on vinyl window replacement, according to the report.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Check for damaged shingles or tiles and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks. If a roof replacement is needed –which provides a 56.9% return on investment using asphalt shingles, according to the report – consider incorporating a highquality roofing underlayment to provide an extra layer of protection against water, heavy snow and ice. For example, Sol-R-Skin BLUE, an external insulating underlayment from Westlake Royal Building Products, complements steep slope roofing. This underlayment serves as a secondary water protective layer, energy-saving radiant barrier and above-deck roof insulation blanket that is all-in-one. It incorporates an anti-glare coating in cool blue, making it easier and safer to install than alternative shiny radiant barrier options.
To learn more about highperformance products for your home, visit WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts. com.
Regular maintenance is important for ensuring the performance and longevity of your grill. By properly maintaining your outdoor cooking appliance, you can prevent rust, extend its lifespan and ensure it cooks food safely.
Neglecting grill maintenance can lead to the buildup of grease and food particles as well as decreased cooking efficiency, safety hazards and necessary repair or replacement. A clean grill typically produces bettertasting food by preventing the transfer of unwanted flavors from previous meals.
By taking the time to properly care for your grill with these tips, you can help ensure its performance and longevity.
Regularly cleaning and seasoning grill grates can help keep them in top condition. Start by heating the grill to a high temperature to burn off leftover food and grease. Once hot, use a grill brush to scrub away residue. After cleaning,
rinse grates thoroughly with water and dry thoroughly. Once dry, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to prevent rust, keep food from sticking, maintain the flavor of your food and ensure even cooking.
To ensure efficient heat distribution and prevent flare-ups, it’s important to inspect and clean your gas grill’s burners. Before cleaning, turn off the gas supply and disconnect the propane tank. Remove the burners and check for any signs of damage or corrosion. Use a wire brush to clean debris or buildup and a thin wire or paperclip to clear any clogs. After cleaning, reassemble burners and check for proper alignment. Make sure there are no gas leaks and the burners ignite properly.
To extend the lifespan of your grill, regularly check and replace any worn or damaged parts. Inspect components, such as the ignition system, cooking grates, control knobs
and propane connections for signs of wear and tear, rust or loose connections. If you notice any issues, replace the parts as soon as possible.
If you have a grill cover, use it whenever your grill is not in use to shield it from rain, snow and the sun’s rays. If you don’t have a cover, consider investing in one or store your grill in a sheltered area away from strong winds and extreme weather conditions. Regularly clean your grill’s exterior using mild soap and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish to help prevent rust, corrosion and other damage caused by exposure to the elements.
Find more tips to make the most of grilling season at eLivingtoday.com.
In the heart of Midtown at Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse, nestled within the aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods, one dessert stands out: Grandma C's Cold Brew Chocolate Cake. This decadent creation, a best seller at the bakery, carries with it a legacy of love, family, and tradition. Passed down from Shannon Smith's grandmother, Joan Colavecchio, the recipe has become a symbol of cherished memories and family connection.
For Shannon, the bond with her grandmother went far beyond the shared love of baking. Joan, who recently passed away at the age of 91, was a guiding influence in her life. Shannon often recalls the weekends spent in her grandmother’s kitchen, learning to measure, mix, and bake with care. "My grandmother was the heart of our family. Every time I make this cake, it’s like she’s right there with me," Shannon reflects.
The Cold Brew Chocolate Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a tribute to Joan’s legacy, with a special twist. By incorporating cold brew coffee the recipe
marries rich, chocolaty flavors with the bold notes of coffee, creating a uniquely indulgent experience. Shannon and her husband Chris, co-owners of Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse and also long-time SouthWood residents, knew they had something special when they decided to bring this treasured recipe to the bakehouse's offerings.
The Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Chocolate and Coffee
Ingredients:
2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
1 cup cocoa
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 stick soft butter, cut into eight pieces
2 cups cold brew or strong regular coffee
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
• Begin by pouring cold brew or strong coffee into a saucepan and bringing it to a boil.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cocoa. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
• Add butter, baking powder,
and baking soda into the well, then pour the boiling coffee over the mixture.
• Beat the mixture for 2 minutes. Next, add the eggs and vanilla, beating for another 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
• Divide the batter evenly between two greased 8” cake pans.
• Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the layers cool completely before frosting.
Mocha Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Ingredients:
12 ounces butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese
20 ounces powdered sugar
4 tablespoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons superfine espresso grounds
Instructions:
• Mix the butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and espresso grounds in a mixer until smooth.
• If needed, add milk or water one tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
Frosting the Cake:
Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and generously frost the top. Add a layer of Oreo Crunch (a delightful combination of crushed Oreo cookies and Magic Shell fudge sauce) over the frosting.
Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Finish with Oreo Crunch on the sides or top—whichever you prefer!
This Cold Brew Chocolate Cake has become a customer favorite at Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse, not only for its
rich flavor but for the story behind it. With every slice served, Shannon honors her grandmother’s memory, sharing a piece of her family’s history with the community. And for those who get to enjoy it, the cake is more than a dessert—it’s a taste of love, legacy, and the deep connections that make life sweet.
Find this incredible recipe and say "Hi" to SouthWood neighbors, Chris and Shannon at Ground Ops Roastery + Bakehouse located at 810 Thomasville Rd, Midtown Tallahassee or at their websitewww.groundopstlh.com
