MOST KIDS LOOK UP TO THEIR PARENTS, BUT MILLS’ STRENGTH MAKES ME LOOK UP TO HIM.
”
— CINDI ACKERMAN mother of Mills, 18 years old
At Tallahassee Memorial, we know that not every page of your child’s story will be perfect, but you have the power to help direct and create happy endings. With the region’s only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, the highest number of certified pediatric nurses in the Big Bend and the region’s only Child Life Specialist, we support your ever-changing role as a caregiver and lifesaver. You are a mom for life, let us be your hospital for life.
Read Mills’ story and others at TMH.ORG/MomForLife
NO CEILING S . NO BOUNDARIES .
Photo Credit Josh McLawhorn
Michelle Ubben: New Frontiers in Life and in Business By
Heather Thomas
About the Cover: Photography by AJ Abellerra | Hair and makeup provided by Kanvas Beauty | Styling by Terra Palmer | Clothes and accessories provided by Narcissus | Shot on location at Hotel Duval
Our Thoughts Facing New Frontiers
Trending
Break Out of the Cone: Elevate Your Ice Cream This Summer | Short Stories: A Shortcut to Summer Style | Nature Lovers, Unite! | The History of the Bathing Suit | Book Nook: Poolside Page-Turners
Style and Grace Suit Up for Summer
Healthy Living Stay Healthy With Honey
Bodies in Motion 4 No-Gym-Required Workouts
Women Who Mean Business: Special Section
Our Community Finding a Forever Home | Girl Scouts of the Florida Panhandle Are Looking for Women of Distinction | Women We Admire: Jenny Cherry—Constructively Uncomfortable | Haute Happenings | Around Town
Trends
Lee of
]
How to Work Like a Mother | Feeling the Pulse of Your Market With Online Surveys | The Do’s and Don’ts of E-mail Sign-Offs
In the Know
The Value of a Women’s Initiative in the Workplace | A Legacy of Leadership
Feature
Mary Phipps—A Woman Who Means “ Bees” ness
Profile
Special Sponsor Section: Dorothy “ Dot ” Trotman-Ealy of Cumulus
Stem
Education/Trade | Codecraft Works Provides STEM-Powered Learning for Girls
Jill of All Trades For Every Businesswoman—Seven Lessons That Will Change Your Life Working Women’s Web Working Women to Watch | Spotlight: Gwen Marshall | Organizations | Community | Get Connected | Biz Scene
Explore Tallahassee Museum’s 52 acres of living history, wildlife exhibits, soaring zip lines and obstacle courses, Jim Gary’s Twentieth Century Dinosaurs, natural trails, historic buildings, animal encounters and more.
Explore Tallahassee Museum’s 52 acres of living history, wildlife exhibits, soaring zip lines and obstacle courses, Jim Gary’s Twentieth Century Dinosaurs, natural trails, historic buildings, animal encounters and more.
Explore Tallahassee Museum’s 52 acres of living history, wildlife exhibits, soaring zip lines and obstacle courses, Jim Gary’s Twentieth Century Dinosaurs, natural trails, historic buildings, animal encounters and more.
Explore Tallahassee Museum’s 52 acres of living history, wildlife exhibits, soaring zip lines and obstacle courses, Jim Gary’s Twentieth Century Dinosaurs, natural trails, historic buildings, animal encounters and more.
3945 Museum Drive | (850) 575-8684 treetotreeadventures.com | tallahasseemuseum.org
3945 Museum Drive | (850) 575-8684 treetotreeadventures.com | tallahasseemuseum.org
Explore Tallahassee Museum’s 52 acres of living history, wildlife exhibits, soaring zip lines and obstacle courses, Jim Gary’s Twentieth Century Dinosaurs, natural trails, historic buildings, animal encounters and more.
3945 Museum Drive | (850) 575-8684 treetotreeadventures.com | tallahasseemuseum.org
3945 Museum Drive | (850) 575-8684 treetotreeadventures.com | tallahasseemuseum.org
3945 Museum Drive | (850) 575-8684 treetotreeadventures.com | tallahasseemuseum.org
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The information in this publication is presented in good faith. The publisher does not guarantee accuracy or assume responsibility for errors or omissions.
Terra Palmer is not only our Style Editor, but she also has a luxury design firm with a passion for quality interiors. She designs interiors all over the United States and has been featured in multiple publications. Terra is also an accomplished artist—her paintings can be found in art galleries across the Southeast. You can see her work at terrapalmerdesigns.com or follow her on Instagram @terrapalmerdesigns and @terrapalmerart.
Jeannette Katicich is a New Orleans, Louisiana, native and mother of four boys, who received a degree in English at USM before moving to Tallahassee with her sons and two dogs in 2016. She is a training consultant for the Florida Department of Health. Jeannette often writes about life as a single mother of boys with its ups, downs and inbetweens—sharing the lessons she learns in the process.
Michelle Nickens is a vice president at the Institute for Intergovernmental Research, a graduate of Leadership Tallahassee and Leadership Florida, and a local actor, blogger and author of the novel, Precious Little Secrets.
Linley Paske and Lauren Pasqualone are biz besties, social media enter“train”ers and the boss moms behind Working Like Mothers, the mother of all business-building networks for working moms. WLM offers opportunities for working mothers to come together to build relationships, build their businesses and build their business skills. Connect with others who are #workinglikemothers at workinglikemothers.com.
Colene Rogers is the President/CEO of Colene Rogers & Associates—A Leadership Training & HR Consulting Group. She is also a member of the John Maxwell Team as a certified speaker, trainer and coach and Senior Certified HR Professional (SHRMSCP). Colene uses her 25 years of combined experience in sales and in human resources to work within organizations, training managers and supervisors to effectively lead through executive coaching and leadership training. For more information visit colenerogers.com.
Dena H. Sokolow is a shareholder with the law firm of Baker Donelson in the Tallahassee office. Dena has more than 20 years of experience counseling and defending employers and management on a wide range of labor and employment matters. She also conducts workplace training and audits and is a featured speaker on employment law topics across the country. You can follow Dena on Twitter @FL_Employ_Law.
AJ Abellera is the owner of AJ Studios Photography. He is a member Tallahassee Professional Photographers Guild; the Florida Professional Photographers, Inc. (FPP); and the Professional Photographers of America. In 2015, AJ received the Florida Degree of Photographic Excellence (FDPE Florida Master Photographer) offered by FPP. View more of his work at ajstudiosphotography.zenfolio.com.
Lydia Bell, owner of elleBelle Photography, is a member of COCA, PPA, Tallahassee Professional Photographers Guild, FPP, PPA Charities, NPPA, NAPCP, ASMP, APA Atlanta Chapter, IFPO, and Fotolanthropy. She has been commissioned by many local and national publications, organizations, businesses and events. You can find an online portfolio of Lydia's work at ellebelle.pics.
Stacy Rehberg is a professional portrait and wedding photographer based in Tallahassee. She is a member of Professional Photographers of America, and the Tallahassee Professional Photographers Guild. View her portfolio at stacyrehberg.com.
Richard J-P Bastien, DMD
OURthoughts
Facing New Frontiers
“Where there is an open mind, there will always be a frontier.”
– Dorothea Brande
Our theme this issue is, “exploring new frontiers.” When I hear the word frontier, I—as I’m sure many of you— instantly think of times past when people were exploring and settling in wilderness areas. Covered wagons, days of crossing prairies and facing unbelievable risks are what comes to mind.
I’ve always been fascinated by stories of those times which, to me, seemed so much more challenging, and required a lot of bravery for those taking on the unknown. However, we discovered as we worked on this issue, frontiers can be applied to many aspects of modern life as well—challenges or undertakings that we choose to pursue, such as starting a business or relocating to a new area and those frontiers we don’t choose—such as facing a serious health issue, a child with a chronic condition, or a financial crisis. Whether our frontiers are voluntary or not, they require we embark into the unknown; to overcome the obstacles and hope for the victories that will be defined as our success.
The women we feature in this issue all faced their own personal frontiers, and have become stronger women as a result. Our cover woman, Michelle Ubben, President of Sachs Media Group, began her adventure early on as she pursued the challenges and the rewards of being a working mother. As matriarch of a blended family and her climb to success in the field of public relations, Michelle’s steadfast commitment to a quality family life demonstrates the frontier that women face today—how to balance it all without losing sight of what’s important.
This issue includes a special feature section on Women Who Mean Business. In this section we explore the ever-changing landscape for businesswomen as we continue to scout and to conquer new frontiers in all aspects of the business world. We highlight fascinating women, such as Mary Phipps and her successful “bees”ness, as well as provide some helpful information from knowledgeable local experts to inspire you to achieve success in the working world.
Exploring new frontiers is rarely easy and often frightening. But, as Jenny Cherry, our Woman We Admire this issue remarked, “You can’t be brave if you are not afraid.” As women, we face challenges every day. However, it is amazing to see how women persevere when faced with these trials and rise up to meet any obstacle. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” It is these challenges where we can become stronger, more resilient and can pioneer a path into a better life for ourselves and for those on the trails behind us.
As we head in to the hot summer months, we hope you will find your own frontiers to explore—both personally and professionally—and enjoy your time doing so.
Until next time.
Kim Rosier, Publisher
“Going into our tenth year of business in Tallahassee, we have had the opportunity to use nearly every form of available media advertising. We pride ourselves in being professional and very customer and results oriented and choose to do business with like-minded entities. For these reasons, we choose to spend our hard earned dollars with Tallahassee Woman Magazine. We find them to be creative, responsive to our particular needs and most importantly effective in getting our word out to our clientele base as well as exposing us to untapped markets.“
- Lisa Mergel, Owner of Kanvas Beauty, advertiser since 2013
TM Kanvas Beauty is just one of the many businesses that is part of the economic fiber of the community. At Tallahassee Woman, our goal is to help other businesses reach the community with information on their goods and services. We value our advertisers in supporting the women of Tallahassee. Call today to see how we can help you grow your business through effective advertising.
TRENDING
BREAK OUT OF THE CONE
Elevate Your Ice Cream
This Summer
By Janecia Britt
The Florida heat makes for the perfect time to experiment with summer’s most-loved treat: ice cream. This summer, you have plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Traditional Ice Cream:
It’s tried and true and never gets old. This creamy treat is a classic, and whether you want vanilla, chocolate or even mint chocolate chip, there’s a flavor for everyone in the family. Want good ice cream but don’t know where to find it? Check out Lofty Pursuits or Bruster’s to get your fix, or make your own.
Rolled Ice Cream:
metal container, which cools the combo as they chop in the ingredients. Then they use a metal scraper to roll the chilled ice cream into scrolls. It’s mesmerizing and a must-try this summer. Find great examples of this treat at Diva Pops.
Frozen Yogurt:
Fro-yo is made with yogurt and is usually more tart than ice cream. As well as being lower in fat, it can be a great low-cal option. Trending now are self-serve stations where you can create your own mix of flavors. Toppings can take any flavor to a completely new level, and there are typically many to choose from, including fresh fruit! You can find delicious fro-yo with plenty of toppings at Nuberri or Sweet Frog.
Gelato:
This is ice cream’s silkier and softer Italian cousin with flavors that are often more intense and satisfying—it’s so good you’ll be saying “Ciao Bella!” in no time! Fiocco Gelato Café, found in Urban Market here in town, is an authentic option to try this delicious Italian treat and experience new flavors from half a world away that are just around the block.
SHORT STORIES A Shortcut to Summer Style
By Sydney Schaefer
Summer is the time for shedding the heavier items in your wardrobe and stocking up on lighter, more Mother Nature-friendly pieces. And nothing tells the tales of summer better than shorts. Below, you’ll find a quick guide to the coolest short trends to beat the heat this season.
Printed Shorts: Bright, eye-catching printed and patterned shorts are made for the summer. Try balancing them out with a solid black or white top.
Culottes: Culottes are shorts of varying length that are cut to look like a skirt. You can either go for the traditional, shin-length culottes for formal or business settings or the updated, shorter version for a more casual look. The flowy fabric is perfect for the summer heat.
Overall Shorts: We can thank the recent resurgence of ’90s fashion for the comeback of overalls. You can customize this look any way you want depending on what you wear underneath. Choose a simple T-shirt for a more casual look or a nice blouse to dress it up a little.
Distressed Denim Cutoffs: You can never go wrong with classic denim shorts, and the more distressed they are, the better. Bonus style points if they’re high-waisted!
NATURE LOVERS, UNITE!
By Rachel Corry
The iNaturalist App is ideal for those seeking to be nature pioneers—to record what they see in nature, connect with other nature lovers and learn more about the natural world. It’s free, easy to use and accessible online and through mobile devices. The app enables you to take note of your own observations, share findings with others, explore uploads from around the world and participate (or initiate) projects.
Keep Track: Record what catches your eye in nature through maps, journals, calendars and life lists. You can upload pictures and descriptions, and the app
will automatically add when and where you took the photo.
Discover More: Increase your knowledge and get in touch with other users and their findings. Teachers can even use iNaturalist to engage students with mobile and web technology as tools to enhance interest and findings in nature.
Stay Tuned in Locally:
Subscribe to specific places that you observe nature most frequently and receive updates when others add observations in your place of interest.
Contribute Useful Information: Make your observations count by uploading them to potentially be viewed by scientists and resource workers, to understand more about the living patterns and locations of organisms.
Start a Project or an Event: Join an already existing project or create your own, such as the City Nature Challenge 2017. You can also take part in a Bioblitz, where users try to find as many species as possible in certain locations.
The History of the Bathing Suit
By Emily Wells
When it comes to the many different designs and styles of bathing suits, women can enjoy their summer while looking their best in and out of the water. However, bathing suits haven’t always been the way we perceive them now in form and function, and the history of the bathing suit is a fascinating look at a fashion frontier that continues to evolve.
The concept of a bathing suit was created in the early 1800s, when newly created railroads let many women and their families easily travel to the beach. Back then, it was more important that women remain modest instead of ready to swim, so they still wore gowns, shawls, gloves and bonnets when going to the beach. It wasn’t until 1915 that the yards of fabric used for skirts and dresses were reduced so that women could enjoy the beach without the fear of drowning from their large, cumbersome outfits. Women athletes were allowed to swim competitively with men the same year, so demand for smaller, more dynamic pieces rose drastically. In the 1920s, women’s swimwear
stopped being dresses altogether and became the one-piece that served as the foundation for swimsuit style. Women would wear matching stockings with them, but by the mid-1920s, fashion magazines such as Vogue were encouraging women to ditch the stockings and show more skin, which led to the creation of the bikini in 1946. By the early 20th century, designers were experimenting with bikinis and one-pieces, creating the modern bathing suits we see every day.
From its humble beginnings as just a simple, heavy gown to its current form with many different styles, the bathing suit continues to reflect the ever-evolving trends of the modern woman.
BOOK NOOK Poolside Page-Turners
By Sydney Schaefer
There’s nothing more luxurious and relaxing than curling up with a good book on a lazy summer afternoon. And if you’re currently in search of a poolside page-turner, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of new and noteworthy reads to dive into this summer!
Into the Water by Paula Hawkins
From the author of the New York Times bestselling novel The Girl on the Train comes another fast-paced psychological thriller. Hawkins’ sophomore novel follows the discovery of the bodies of a single mother and a teenage girl at the bottom of a river, the ensuing investigation and the effects on the town surrounding the river and the loved ones left behind. Into the Water promises just as many juicy twists and turns as Hawkins’ debut novel.
The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin
This novel tells the story of two strangers whose charter plane crashes into the High Uintas Wilderness in the dead of winter and their subsequent struggle to survive the harsh conditions. With adventure, suspense and romance, The Mountain Between Us could be described as a cross between Hatchet and The Notebook. Pick up a copy before the film adaptation starring Kate Winslet and Idris Elba hits theaters later this fall.
This Life I Live: One Man’s Extraordinary, Ordinary Life and the Woman Who Changed It Forever by Rory Feek
Fans of the hit country duo Joey + Rory will already be familiar with Joey Feek’s tragic stage IV cervical cancer diagnosis, which eventually led to her passing. She is survived by her husband Rory, who goes on to tell the story of their lives, their love and his eventual loss. This Life I Live is filled with sage advice, heartfelt memories and a unique perspective on death. Make sure to have a box of tissues nearby while you read this one.
Perfume River by Robert Olen Butler
This novel by Pulitzer Prize winner and local Florida State University professor Robert Olen Butler takes place in our very own Tallahassee community. It explores the intricacies of father-son relationships as well as the long-lasting effects of the Vietnam War on all those involved. Perfume River offers a thought-provoking look at a family divided inside of a nation divided and the ultimate costs of war.
Lucky Boy by Shanthi Sekaran
Lucky Boy follows the stories of Solimar, an undocumented Mexican immigrant, and Kavya, a first-generation IndianAmerican, and their common goal—to gain custody of Solimar’s young son Ignacio. Topical and timely, this novel shows the enduring spirit of strong women and the lengths to which they will go for the ones they love.
Tory Burch black wedges, Caroline Hill purse, Narcissus swimsuit, (Narcissus); Hat (Target)
When the temperature spikes and the water starts calling, it’s time to suit up for summer. This season’s bathing suit trends and nautical accessories are reflecting the colors and styles off the runway and around town—from off-the shoulder ruffled tops, bright colors, cut-outs, halter-tops, stripes and the classic contrast of black and white—you are sure to find a look that will turn heads at the pool or beach.
Swimsuit (Walter Green Boutique) Shorts (Narcissus)
B. Swim swimwear and rhinestone necklace (Walter Green Boutique); Tory Burch shoes, Narcissus beach towel (Narcissus)
Model: Our thanks to Susie Juhlin, 41, a Tallahassee mother of two who rocked the swimwear.
Stay Healthy With Honey
By Sydney Schaefer
Honey is one of the oldest sweeteners in the world, and people have been using it to improve their health for generations. The average American consumes over 150 pounds of refined sugar every year, but only 1.3 pounds of honey. When used in moderation, honey is a great alternative to sugar not only because of its added vitamins and minerals but also because it is jampacked with other health benefits. Raw, local honey is the most nutrient-dense variety and supporting local beekeepers means supporting the robust pollination of your local food system. And, a robust local food economy means more local summertime produce. A win-win!
1. Quick Energy Source
Honey has been called the “perfect running fuel” because it provides a fast-absorbing form of energy to your body, making it ideal for early morning workouts. Studies have even found that honey is on par with most commercially-sold energy gels marketed toward runners.
2. Immune System Booster
A healthy immune system is vital to warding off common bacteria and viruses that make you sick. Due to honey’s antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, it can help give your immune system a much-needed boost. There are studies showing that honey gleaned from local hives may assist the immune system better with combating regional allergens.
3. Sore Throat Reliever
Anyone who’s ever had to deal with a bad cough has likely been told to drink a cup of hot tea with honey, and as it turns out, this is scientifically sound advice. The honey coats the inside of your throat, soothing the irritated nerve endings that trigger the cough reflex in the first place.
4. Dry Scalp Soother
If you’re in the market for a natural remedy for a dry, itchy, dandruff-prone scalp, try honey. It helps hair hold onto moisture while delivering essential vitamins to the scalp. Simply apply honey diluted with water directly to your scalp, massage for two to three minutes, and then let it sit for three hours before rinsing it with warm water. Repeat every other day for two weeks, at which point you can reduce it to one treatment per week.
5. Memory Booster
Eating foods high in antioxidants— like honey—is an excellent way to improve cognitive skills and reduce brain aging. Research suggests that regularly consuming honey can help postmenopausal women stay sharp.
We all have an idea of what the perfect healthcare experience should be. Responsive yet friendly. Technologically advanced yet compassionate. At Capital Regional, our physicians strive to be the very best every day. And we think it shows.
To view our Physician Network of Care, visit CapitalRegionalMedicalCenter. com/physicians/affiliatedpractices.dot
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Rick Damron, MD
J. Roberto Mendoza, MD
Terence Murphy, MD
Andrea Randell, MD
Richard Thacker, DO
Leonard Waldenberger, MD 850.878.8235
SOUTHWOOD
Shamil Castro, MD
William Kepper, MD
Maci McDermott, MD
Paul Modafferi, ARNP
1910 Hillbrooke Trail, Suite 2 Tallahassee, FL 32311
850.878.2637
Rohan Joseph, MD
Anthony Wright, MD
2626 Care Drive, Suite 206 Tallahassee, FL 32308
850.219.2306
MAIN CAMPUS
2770 Capital Medical Blvd., Suite 200 Tallahassee, FL 32308 850.878.8235
PODIATRY
Kevin Derickson, DPM 850.878.8235
CHATTAHOOCHEE
Brian Ham, ARNP
Terence Murphy, MD 409 High Street Chattahoochee, FL 32324 850.663.4643
Jolita Burns, MD, FACOG
2770 Capital Medical Blvd., Suite 100 Tallahassee, FL 32308 850.877.5589
850.878.8235
Robert
Accepting appointments at all locations. CRAWFORDVILLE
850.926.6363
No-GymRequired 4 WORKOUTS
By Sydney Schaefer
In the summer months, when the days feel longer and lazier, getting to the gym can feel like an insurmountable task. Sometimes we just need to break out of our old workout routines and try something new or change things up to challenge ourselves. Whether you’re just getting into exercise and looking for a place that keeps your interest and makes working out feel less like work or you’re a seasoned gym-goer looking to switch up your routine, consider these fun activities that will get your heart pumping and body moving all summer long.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is a great form of exercise because it works so many different muscle groups at the same time while also improving your stamina and flexibility. Another less obvious benefit of climbing is the mental workout. Each route is a puzzle to be solved, and over time, climbing can increase your concentration, patience and problemsolving skills. If you’re interested, Tallahassee Rock Gym is great for both new and experienced climbers.
Nature Hike
Nature hikes or walks are suitable for all ages because you can control your pace and intensity. Most Tallahassee trails can be walked, run or biked, all while getting to enjoy the beautiful red hills landscapes. A few local favorites include the Lafayette Heritage trail, the Munson Hills trail and the Miccosukee Canopy Road Greenway trail.
Zip Lining
Zip lining at the Tallahassee Museum is an unexpected workout that will get your adrenaline pumping while working muscles you didn’t even know you had. Visit tallahasseemuseum.org to learn more about this tree-to-tee adventure.
Belly Dancing Classes
In addition to the cardiovascular benefits inherent in all forms of dancing, belly dancing also offers improved posture and a killer core workout. Belly dancing classes are also known to be very bodypositive environments, so regular attendance can also be a major confidence booster. For local classes, check out The Women’s Bellydance Center or In Step Studio, Inc.
Photo by Jess Hand Rock climber, Becky D’Alessio
NEW FRONTIERS IN LIFE AND IN BUSINESS
By Heather Thomas
Photography by AJ Abellera
Sometimes it seems as if we are all pioneers exploring the frontiers of our lives, but without a complete map and never fully knowing where the next bend in the road will take us. Michelle Ubben, newly appointed President of Sachs Media Group, is a pioneer familiar with unmapped terrains in the field of public relations and media, along with navigating a career, marriage, motherhood in a blended family and caring for an aging parent. This uncharted life is Michelle’s big adventure, and as she embarks on a new leadership role at Sachs Media, she shares her story for all of us to put into our backpacks (or purses, laptop or diaper bags) as fellow pioneers heading into our own frontiers.
WAYFINDING
Michelle Ubben grew up in New Jersey in a large, extended family. Her parents were first-generation Americans and remarried widowers with children from her father’s first marriage, so Michelle learned early on not to draw straight lines—or any lines at all in a family. “Step” or “half” are not words that her family uses. “One of the most beautiful things in my life was to grow up in and also help establish a family that loves each other beyond blood lines.”
After discovering an aptitude for journalism in high school, Michelle moved to Florida at age 17 with her recently retired parents and planned to attend the summer semester at the University of Florida. Sitting alone on her dorm bed, homesick, without a roommate and nursing a major head cold, she was overcome with a “life at a crossroads feeling.” She was either going to drive north to New Jersey or south to her parents’ home in Port St. Lucie, Florida. “I showed up at my parents’ house at 3 a.m. They were unhappy and told me I was going to have to find a job.” She applied to be a reporter at a local newspaper, but the editors did not take her seriously until she meticulously researched stories and turned in articles that the newspaper was happy to publish. They gave her a job over the summer, which turned into a full-time staff position.
A year later, she restarted her college career at the University of Central Florida as a journalism major and wrangled her professional journalism experience into a successful internship and job at the Orlando Sentinel (then the Sentinel Star.) After graduating, she moved to Tallahassee to begin a 14-year career in state government as communication director for four state agencies and started a family with her first husband while also completing a master's in rhetoric from Florida State University.
Looking back on this time and her journey, Michelle seems to have found
“ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS IN MY LIFE WAS TO GROW UP IN AND ALSO HELP ESTABLISH A FAMILY THAT LOVES EACH OTHER BEYOND BLOOD LINES.”
“IT’S NOT EASY TO BALANCE WORK AND HOME—EVERY WOMAN WHO HAS A FOOT IN THESE TWO WORLDS STRUGGLES TO FIND HER FOOTING.”
her life’s path by wayfinding—taking one step at a time and pausing to adjust her steps and find her way. This is echoed by Michelle when she talks about her oldest daughter (Caroline), who was adopted after spending her first four years in foster care. “I adopted her when I was 24 and she was 5. She had moved around a lot, and all I knew was that I wanted to give her a family where she could settle in and know that she wouldn’t be leaving anymore. I was scared at first, but step by step, we figured out how to be a mother and daughter together.”
Along with learning how to be a mother to an adopted daughter, giving birth to her son (Josh) was transformative. She says, “Carrying a child, giving birth, and falling in love with my son changed me. I actually considered changing careers to become a midwife and help other women navigate that territory.” After going through a divorce and finding herself a single mom, she had to find her way anew.
The unknown frontier of where Michelle’s life was headed was in her thoughts while awake, but also while she was asleep. She says she had a recurring dream about walking the halls of her home. “I would open a door and discover a whole new room, floor or part of the house that I didn’t know was there. It filled me with excitement and seemed to be a symbol of my life—that there were new frontiers I hadn’t discovered yet.” That dream took real form when she met and married Matt Ubben. To Michelle, their marriage represented one of the new rooms in her dream and opened up a door to her, adding “second mom” to her titles of adoptive mom and birth mom. “When I met Matt, who was widowed with a 4-year-old (also named Caroline) and a 2-year-old (Matthew, Jr.), I felt like everything about my birth family and my life so far had prepared me for this. I knew we could make a blended family work.” Their marriage was unexplored territory
for both of them as they embarked on a fresh start. They were later blessed to add two more children to their blended family with the births of their fifth and sixth children, Grace and Jack.
Touchingly, when Michelle was helping Matt go through some of his things in storage, she found a notebook that his first wife, Mandy, kept by her hospital bed to write her part of conversations when she was too ill to speak. Michelle came across a page on which there were only four words written—“Who has the kids?” Michelle says, “It stopped me. In my heart, I answered her, ‘I do.’ I made a copy of that page and keep it in my Bible.”
Even though she has the big family she had always dreamed of, literally and figuratively, she continues to rely on the wayfinding aspect of her faith to be her travel guide, especially when it comes to finding a life balance. “It’s not easy to balance work and home—every woman who has a foot in these two worlds struggles to find her footing.” She described a time when she was heading into a church-sponsored women’s retreat weekend, right after being profiled as a master of balancing work and family. “The article made it sound like I was this guru of balance who had cracked the code on making all of this work. Yet, I didn’t feel like I was really very balanced at all.”
Since Michelle did not have much practice in reading scripture, the retreat leader suggested that one good way for her to get started was by reading one chapter in the book of Proverbs a day, since there are 31 chapters. Because it was the 11th day of the month, Michelle opened up her Bible to Proverbs 11:1 and read, “A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.” She was stunned and says, “Talk about God speaking directly to me! It was then that I knew that the balance I needed to achieve was not just work and family, but prioritizing my spiritual life and time with God.”
Along with keeping her faith in the center of the balance see-saw, Michelle says, “Truly, Matt and I could not have raised six children, blended a family and managed demanding careers without my mom. Now, at 97, she lives with us and needs our help. That’s the full-circle nature of family.”
NEW FRONTIERS
Michelle acknowledges that her journey hasn’t been a straight climb up the ladder of success, but more like finding her way up the switchback
paths of the mountain of perspective. And, sometimes, that involves blind turns.
One such turn was leaving the safety net of her state government position to work with Ron Sachs on a new public relations and media venture 20 years ago. She came into it with the perspective of a working mother of six children, and because of this, she had an integral role in shaping the culture of a workplace into a family-friendly environment, while also helping to steer it toward projects with high-stakes challenges that make deeply impactful, positive changes for clients and communities around the state and the nation.
With their journalism roots, Michelle and Ron became a dynamic storytelling team, and the firm grew from 3 employees to 30 and offices in 4 cities, with clients such as Pfizer, Lyft, the Florida League of Cities and the American Chemistry Council. “Many clients struggle with how to tell their stories. We listen and then help our clients craft a narrative that’s customized and compelling, that people can relate to and that moves them to
“A STABLE SOCIETY DEPENDS ON STRONG FAMILIES AND THRIVING CHILDREN, AND EMPLOYERS PLAY A BIG ROLE IN MAKING THAT POSSIBLE. AS WOMEN, WE NEED TO BELIEVE IN OUR OWN TALENTS AND SKILLS AND THEN NEGOTIATE TERMS THAT WORK FOR US IN ALL THE ROLES WE PLAY. IT’S BEEN GRATIFYING FOR ME TO BE PART OF CREATING A HEALTHY WORK CULTURE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE WE WORK WITH.”
action.” Many of those award-winning storytelling campaigns have the handprint of Michelle’s passion for children and families, including campaigns to rebrand Florida’s public adoption system and promote child abuse reporting.
The firm has flourished and has expanded its expertise into crisis, social and digital strategy, research and Emmy Awardwinning video production. Now, a new frontier approaches again as Michelle steps into the role of leading Sachs Media Group as its President in June. Ron will continue to serve as CEO, providing overall strategic counsel and taking the lead on business development and crisis management accounts. Ron says that Michelle’s greatest contribution has been finding and cultivating top communications talent in the state.
“Our strength is our team, and Michelle has had the biggest role in building that team and creating a culture where success and credit are shared.”
Taking the helm of one of Florida’s top public relations firms at a time when the communications field is changing rapidly represents an exciting new frontier with almost unlimited possibilities for pioneers. “There’s never been a more exciting time to be a communicator— more ways to connect with audiences, less dependence on advertising, more authenticity, more room for creativity in developing original content, and a greater recognition of the power of storytelling. This is a time of tremendous innovation, the most exciting time of my career.”
The duality of Michelle’s affable personality and purposeful leadership style is rooted in the confidence and support she has found in her marriage, family life and faith, along with the mutual respect of Ron and her coworkers—her second family. “A stable society depends on strong families and thriving children, and employers play a big role in making that possible. As women, we need to believe in our own talents and skills and then negotiate terms that work for us in all the roles we play. It’s been gratifying
“The Ubben Family” Photography by Josh McLawhorn
LIFE’S WORK MOMENTS
It’s when Michelle pauses in her many roles and pursues another kind of work, working in her garden, that she will most often reflect on the moments that make up her life’s work—the seeds she has planted and helped to grow and the people in her life who have nurtured and sustained her on her own journey and helped her find her way. As she continues to lead others up the next mountain and to the next frontier, she knows that the view will be worth it.
“I’m blessed beyond any understanding and so aware that my cup runneth over. No matter what your work is, it is a delight when you recognize and use the talents God has given you. Work is what we are created to do. If you wake up every day and are in awe of your life’s work, you will find direction and purpose and can be a blessing to others.”
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How to Work Like a Mother
By Linley Paske and Lauren Pasqualone of the LP2 Boutique Agency
Working moms must wear a lot of hats, such as chef, janitor, chauffeur and courier, to name a few. How are we supposed to get it all done?
Perhaps you’ve heard the saying “You have as many hours in a day as Beyoncé.” Do you know what else she has? She has assistants, chefs, housekeepers, personal trainers, nannies, a business manager and Jay Z behind her, so she can focus on using her talents to grow her brand.
When you work for yourself or don’t have a big team, you fill each role in your business. Who is the CEO? You! Who is your assistant? You!
That’s why we use a time management method that works for working moms: have clear goals in place. They’ll become your priorities and guide how you spend your time.
Make a list of all the business activities that are on your plate right now. Identify the tasks that are part of routine business operations versus special projects that can be cleared from your plate once they’re done. Identify the hats you wear at work, such as CEO, assistant, sales manager and marketing director, then throw your routine activities into the appropriate hat. Your CEO “hat-tivities” may include setting goals
and big-picture planning, while you respond to e-mails and run errands when wearing your assistant hat.
Assign a frequency and time to each hat-tivity so you know exactly how often and how long you need to work on a task to keep your business running smoothly. Add your work schedule to your calendar so you know exactly how many hours you have every day, week and month to work on your business.
Using the frequencies and times you listed, assign specific business activities to the work periods you scheduled on your calendar, time blocking by each hat.
hat-tivities each week. These are initiatives that you won’t work on routinely but are important to accomplish to get you closer to your goals.
Make sure you haven’t committed every minute of your work time to a recurring activity or weekly focus. Leave space for new opportunities, when things don’t go as planned, a task takes longer than expected or you forgot about something.
The key is not to spend more time working but to make the most of the time you have to work. For more working mom work-arounds for home and business, connect with others who are #workinglikemothers on
FEELING THE PULSE OF YOUR MARKET With Online Surveys
By Sydney Schaefer
Market research is a strategy most large-scale businesses use to keep in touch with the wants and needs of their clients. It can also be an invaluable tool for small to midsize business owners or nonprofits—one that many don’t take advantage of. Listening to the voices of your customers or donors will let them know that their opinions are a priority to you and will also help improve your business and mission. Fortunately, keeping up to date with market trends and your clients is easier than ever, thanks to online survey generators. Whether you’re interested in trying something new or just want to make sure what you’re currently doing is working, you don’t have to wonder what
the individuals in your market base are thinking. Bring them into the loop with online surveys.
There are a number of benefits to conducting surveys. They can help you find out what your clientele likes and wants (e.g., “Which of these proposals would you like to see implemented?”), gauge customer satisfaction (e.g.,“How happy are you with the services we currently offer?”), and provide fieldspecific critiques, criticisms and suggestions for ways in which your business or organization could improve.
Luckily, online surveys are easier than ever to set up, and with a little time and
if you are tech-savvy, you’ll be more connected to your clientele than ever before. Most surveys follow a similar path: they help customize your survey, distribute it via e-mail and various social media channels, collect data and report the results. There are plenty of online survey generators to choose from depending on your preferences and desired price points. PCMag voted SurveyGizmo the best survey tool of 2016, for its usability on both the business and customer ends, but some other popular choices include SurveyMonkey, Typeform and Checkbox Survey.
visit
and search “Look Up and Live”
Author KarGrecia Robinson began writing when she was 16, a sophomore in high school who had trouble explaining her emotions but found release and relief when she put pen to paper. An only child, she was born in 1988 in Quincy, Florida, where she was raised by her beloved grandmother, Shelly Robinson Clay, and graduated with honors from East Gadsden High School. Dedicated to her grandmother, this book reflects KarGrecia’s commitment to God, a personal love she wants to share with others to encourage them on their own life’s path.
The Do’s and Don’ts of E-mail Sign-Offs
By Sydney Schaefer
Oftentimes, the hardest part of crafting a business e-mail is figuring out the most appropriate way to end it. Striking a balance between sounding too casual and too formal can be difficult. It may sound like an overexaggeration, but the way you choose to sign off can make or break a business e-mail, and it may determine whether or not you get a response. Valedictions also have a practical function in that they ensure the recipient that your e-mail didn’t get cut short and was, in fact, sent in its entirety.
NO SIGN-OFF
Business experts generally agree that skipping the closing altogether is a tactic that should be used with caution. It can exhibit an “all business” attitude, but it can also come across as intimidating or even disrespectful. Taking the time to type a few extra characters can help prevent misinterpretation. No signoff is acceptable in an e-mail chain, but it’s safer to include one when beginning a correspondence.
“SINCERELY” OR “YOURS TRULY”
It may come as a shock to many, but the oft-used “sincerely” and “yours truly” are widely considered outdated and overly formal in most situations.
“THANK YOU”
Avoid using “thank you” and all its variations when your e-mail entails a command or a request. The preemptive thank-you can seem presumptive and ungrateful. Use it when you are sincerely grateful for a favor that the recipient has done for you.
“BEST”
Business etiquette experts agree that “best” is, in fact, the best way to end an e-mail. It’s short without being curt and professional without being standoffish. When in doubt, “best” is the safest option to close an e-mail. Other variations such as “all the best,” “my best” or “best regards”are also universally appropriate.
PRESENTED BY Colene Rogers President of Colene Rogers & AssociatesA Leadership Training & HR Consulting Group
Applying highly effective leadership skills can be complicated. That is because effective leadership has many facets: emotional strength, integrity, people skills, discipline, vision, and more. More than ever, we as women are holding positions of leadership. Come to learn attributes of great leadership and how to leave a powerful legacy while mingling with other fascinating Tallahassee businesswomen.
Networking: 11:30 a.m.-Noon Lunch and Presentation: Noon-1:00 p.m.
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The Value of a Women’s Initiative in the Workplace
By Dena Sokolow
In the early years of my career, I would cringe when female colleagues would characterize and distinguish themselves based on gender. At the time, I firmly believed the “female” moniker created an unnecessary (and potentially harmful) division between the sexes. We were all there to do the same job. We had the same stresses, pressures and responsibilities. I never considered myself a “female attorney,” just “an attorney.” That is, until I became a mother. Then, the distinction of being a woman in a male-dominated profession (only 36 percent of attorneys are female) became a harsh reality.
After the birth of my daughter and relocating back to Tallahassee, I reached out to the law firm where I had started my career 15 years previously and to my delight, they welcomed me back with open arms. But it was a new ballgame working full-time and being a single
mom. I was the only female attorney in the office and one of only two female partners in the entire firm. For the first time in my career, I felt like a “female attorney.”
There was an unspoken divide between me and my male colleagues. They did not have to worry about whether there was food in the refrigerator, the school lunch was packed or the permission slip was signed. They didn’t have to make arrangements for child care when they went out of town for work. The divide was made even greater by the social connection the men shared. There were frequent “guy trips,” barbecue contests and cocktail hours after work. Although I was always invited, I wanted to go home to my child, not have drinks with the people with whom I had spent the entire day. My absence from these after-work festivities, however, meant that I often missed important work-
related conversations. I was not a part of those conversations, and it created a rift between me and my firm that grew as the years passed.
While my male colleagues were always accepting of my need to leave work for a sick child or a school activity, I would feel the pressure to make up the time and work late so there would be no resentments. I was exhausted and felt alone and isolated. My job was creating a huge tug-of-war in my life between work and parental commitments. I resigned myself to the belief that this was the life of a working mom. Until I decided to make a change.
About 3 years ago, over lunch with a female colleague and friend, I first learned about Baker Donelson, a law firm based in Tennessee. My friend told me she was thinking about leaving her firm after 24 years and opening a Baker
office in Tallahassee. Although I was not actively looking to leave my firm, the more I heard about this law firm and its unique and flexible approach to work/ life integration, I made the decision to take the leap.
This new position changed not only the way I practice law but my views on what a workplace could and should be for women. Baker uses the “female attorney” label not to divide, but as an acknowledgement that women often face unique challenges in the workplace and that it is important to address these issues if the firm wants to retain talented lawyers. Baker has a vibrant, active “Women’s Initiative” that is committed to creating an environment where female attorneys thrive. The firm provides 16 weeks of paid maternity/paternity leave with firm-assigned mentors to help make the transition out of and back to work easier and less stressful. Family and parental commitments are encouraged, and there is no official or unofficial “face
time” requirement that attorneys are expected to be present in the office solely for the sake of being there.
Most companies, large and small, recognize the benefits of gender diversity in the workplace. Not just because it’s a laudable goal; it simply makes bottom-line business sense. Men and women offer different viewpoints, ideas and market insights. A gender-diverse workforce also allows companies to serve an increasingly diverse customer base. Studies show women account for two-thirds of the purchasing decisions in every household.
Women’s initiatives help foster and promote gender diversity in the workplace. Companies simply cannot afford to ignore 50 percent of the potential workforce and expect to be competitive in the current economy. But such initiatives cannot be merely lip service. There must be commitment to meaningful action. Companies can
begin by making a candid assessment of their current position. What does your business look like in terms of gender diversity in leadership, new hires, compensation, advancement paths and separation data (i.e., at what point employees leave and why they leave)? How can you align your business objectives and the advancement of women? Are there institutional barriers to women’s advancement in your workplace? Does your organization have policies and practices in place that recognize the unique demands and issues of women, particularly working mothers? A successful women’s initiative is something that is embedded in the culture of the business.
Being a working parent is difficult. I love my daughter, but I also love my career that I worked so hard to obtain. It’s a blessing that I have found a workplace that allows me to wear my “female attorney and mother” badge with pride.
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ABOUT YOU!
A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP
By Colene Rogers President of Colene Rogers & Associates
For 35 years, my dad coached Little League baseball and Pop Warner football in Groveland, Florida, the small town where I was raised. In the many practices and games that I attended since childhood, I watched and heard my dad coach and encourage his players in a manner that motivated them to be better. He consistently made a practice of recognizing the achievements and contributions of each player, for all their teammates to hear.
Now, when I am home visiting my dad and we are at Cracker Barrel, his favorite restaurant, inevitably a past player or parent will come up to my dad and hug and thank him for the influence that he had in their lives. After years of pouring into others, my dad is now blessed by the legacy he created.
We all have influence—therefore, we are all leaders creating our own personal legacy. John Maxwell, a recognized leadership expert, speaker, coach and author says, “Without leadership ability, a person’s impact is only a fraction of what it could be with good leadership. The higher you want to climb, the more you need leadership. The greater the impact you want to make, the greater your influence needs to be.”
More than ever before, we as women have opportunities to lead, and we are pursuing these positions of leadership within organizations, churches, corporations and government, while still leading at home. We’ve all heard the expression “a born leader” when describing a person. In some cases, this expression is true, but
even born leaders require learning and development. We just do not come out of the womb ready to lead.
Leaders make organizations better or worse for the people who follow them. We have all seen the results of great leadership and its ability to turn an organization around. Conversely, many of us have experienced the negative consequences of poor leadership. The number one reason employees leave an organization is because of the supervisor. People quit because of people who devalue them, who are untrustworthy and insecure and do not recognize and appreciate them. But I have good news— leadership is a learnable skill and can be practiced and refined.
Here are a few things we can do to lift our leadership game. First, make understanding people a priority. Ask the people you lead where they came from, where they want to go, and how you can help them get there. Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care. Second, guard your integrity. Ask yourself: Do I put other people ahead of my own personal agenda? When I have something to say to people, do I talk to them or about them? It has been said that integrity is the quality most needed to succeed in business. And third, everyone desires appreciation and recognition, so give it to them! To describe how powerful this desire is, I regularly facilitate leadership training within organizations and companies with an interactive tool that inspires dialogue. One thing we do within the training is an exercise in which participants are asked to share a leadership skill they most admire about each of their colleagues.Without fail, this exercise is transformative, removing walls and barriers. How good it is to receive recognition and appreciation from our peers!
Management is the process of setting, implementing and achieving objectives. Leadership, on the other hand, is vision casting and equipping, motivating and helping people get where they want to go. Author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar summed it up nicely when he said, “You can have what you want if you will help enough other people get what they want.”
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MARY PHIPPS A Woman Who Means “Bees”ness
By Maria Elena Margarella
Walking into Orchard Pond Organics, you can’t help but feel welcomed. Owner Mary Phipps shakes your hand with a smile that tells you she’s both a leader and a friend. As her sidekick pup Milly dollies around your ankles, you know you’re experiencing business from the heart—natural and raw.
FEATURE
In fact, raw is actually a rather profitable strength for Orchard Pond Organics (OPO). Its raw products, particularly honey, have been gaining considerable attention lately. Earlier this year, Publix reached out in cooperation with a new local food program—on the day TWM explored OPO, shipments of honey (and honey-infused granola!) were being readied for distribution to 342 Publix stores across Florida—that’s right, the entire state—and every Whole Foods.
Before the national names nabbed the honey nest, though, OPO was already tucked away in local Tally favorites, such as Sage, Cypress and Liberty Bar, and even enjoyed in some eateries in Georgia and Alabama as well.
From your backyard to statewide, the sweet news of OPO’s products has spread quickly from Mary’s original visions of sunny farm fields.
How the Honey Came to Bee
Growing up in Thomasville, Georgia, Mary learned to treat business like family by helping out at her dad’s restaurant, “George and Louie’s.” When she and her husband, Jeff Phipps, started their own family in Tallahassee about 8 years ago, they saw this land as more than just a business opportunity.
“Well, it’s bigger than just Orchard Pond Plantation,” Mary says. “We want to make sure we’re doing our part to make good use of the land— wildlife crossings, keeping trees up, bike paths, nature paths—it’s the bigger picture. It brings people back and makes them want to stay.”
Indeed, with such an interactive community, the Pond is never empty. Families can rent out plots of land and grow their own organic food right next to OPO’s own fields. And on special “You-Pick” days, people can come out and—you guessed it—pick crops. The tillage-to-table philosophy is the farm’s foundation; with organic products and
sustainable practices, every product contributes to a healthier community.
Feeding the family right from the ground is quite a plus too, she admits.
“It’s nice having them growing up eating [organic] food,” Mary says of her daughters Kennedy, 9, and Sophia, 5.
“They really like what we’re doing out here—they’re proud of it, and that’s a good feeling.”
“We had no idea what we were doing when we started. It’s all been a big learning curve. You learn a lot just by doing things the hard way and trying them for the first time.”
But it wasn’t all good graces in the beginning, she admits. “We had no idea what we were doing when we started. It’s all been a big learning curve. You learn a lot just by doing things the hard way and trying them for the first time.”
And that’s exactly how their honeysweet story starts.
Since OPO’s beginning, family friend and second-generation beekeeper Tommy Duggar would bring his bees to Orchard Pond every year on the clock. Tommy’s mother always bottled the honey for Christmas presents until one day Tommy asked Mary to collaborate on the honeycomb. The two built a quaint kitchen, and business blossomed from there.
How the Queen Bee Does Business
To help biz bloom, Mary makes sure the Pond isn’t just a place to punch in and out. Rather, it’s a community of people who share common passions for nature, conservation and organic agriculture. “I think that’s the key to [managing it all]—having good people with great attitudes who enjoy doing what they’re doing,” she says. “And because they enjoy doing it, they don’t mind the hard work.”
The farm still uses the original kitchen. But that cramped little cooker cranks out all of OPO’s honey, even when the clients are Publix and Whole Foods.
So What’s
All the Buzz About?
“It’s raw, unfiltered— and local!”
contains such a diverse mixture of pollen from different plants around the property; this flavor is also your goto allergy fighter because the diversity adds to its immune-building power.
“It’s just a great feeling to be able to contribute to helping people eat healthy food and have access to it.”
The modest facilities poetically reflect Mary’s own modesty—when we ask her who worked out the big Publix deal, she chuckles softly, “Um, me.”
The big deals aren’t what drive this Queen Bee, though. “You’re not doing it for yourself,” she affirms. “It’s just a great feeling to be able to contribute to helping people eat healthy food and have access to it.” And through your friendly neighborhood Publix, she hopes to do just that, starting with what’s happenin’ in the hives.
Mary says, proudly beaming. There’s that word again—raw. When it comes to honey, just remember that silly middle-school expression: mind your beeswax, kid. No, really—raw, unfiltered honey has pollen and beeswax that helps your body fight off allergies. Store-bought honey looks crystal-clear because it’s both filtered and heated for aesthetic purposes. The heating process, however, removes natural properties that make the sweet stuff good for you. OPO doesn’t heat its honey above 90 degrees, so your little teddy bear bottles are ready to tackle that pesky cold. (Sweet tip: Take a spoonful once a day to gradually boost your immune system.)
And the honey flavors themselves are nothing to sneeze at. In addition to “raw” and “unfiltered,” add three names to your growing list of buzzwords: Tupelo, Gallberry and Wildflower. Each flavor differs in color, taste and seasonal availability, depending on where the bees collect their pollen. Wildflower is available year-round because it
To harvest Wildflower, OPO has its own apiary but still collaborates with other honeycomb curators as well. In order to harvest Tupelo and Gallberry, however, Mary works with beekeepers around the Apalachicola River, where such pollen is more prevalent. Those beekeepers then bring their bees to Orchard Pond for part of the year, just like Tommy did.
SWEET TIP: Take a spoonful once a day to gradually boost your immune system.
From Hive to Honey Pot
Dressing up in the typical white suits—because many of the honeybee’s enemies are dark-colored—Operations Manager John Raney, who oversees OPO’s apiary, must calm the busy bees with smoke and then work together with Mary to bring the harvested honey to the fresh market every Saturday at Market Square on Timberlane Road.
Now with Publix joining the swarm, Orchard Pond is abuzz with excitement for the future. John calls the bees his “babies,” and Mary can’t stop smiling about the possibility of expanding (with products and a bigger kitchen!). But even in the face of that golden nectar, Mary reminds us there still exists the risk of being stung. She leaves us, smiling still, with a bit of beekeeping wisdom to pass along to all businesswomen: in order to reap the sweet reward, “You gotta fight the urge to run.”
For more information visit online at orchardpondorganics.com.
Codecraft Works Provides STEM-Powered Learning for Girls
Contributed by Shannon Landin and Meagan Bonnell
In our ever-changing Digital Age, there’s one thing that has remained the same: tech teams are still seriously low on girl power.
The stats say it all—ladies are being left behind. Although tech jobs are growing steadily, the number of females filling those positions continues to fall. According to Girls Who Code (girlswhocode.com), the gender gap has only gotten worse. In 1984, 37 percent of all computer science graduates were
women; today, that statistic has sunk to 18 percent. And while the year 2020 expects to offer up 1.4 million jobs in computing-related fields, women are anticipated to nab only 3 percent of them.
Codecraft Works was founded by Shannon Landin in 2011, and is built on the foundation that every child should have the opportunity to learn computer programming in a fun, supportive and interactive environment. But we are particularly passionate about
fueling up on girl power. And we think it’s time to change the tech trends.
By providing young girls with educational access to STEM-powered programs, we hope to empower them to become future tech entrepreneurs while offering the tools to express their creativity, individuality and problemsolving skills. In order to reduce the gender gap, we must work to increase awareness of the diverse professions available through computer science
education. Thus, awareness will rise alongside the girls’ confidence, and we’ll begin to see real change. Opportunities will open, as the gap begins to close.
But how? At Codecraft Works, we believe that throughout the entire K–12 education life cycle, all students should be given the opportunity to develop computer science knowledge and harness the power of computational thinking. By doing so, they will learn and practice modern approaches to problem solving. Applying computer science as a tool for learning and expression will increase access and opportunity in a world that is already heavily influenced by technology.
We need to empower young women more than ever. Codecraft projects and curricula allow students to grow, question and solve for today. In Tallahassee, at the seat of the state government with our universities and growing entrepreneurship and tech innovation scene, female encouragement is a must. Getting our girls involved in computer programming will be a crucial part of our city’s continually growing tech ecosystem. As we grow in Tallahassee, Codecraft is actively working to establish after-school clubs and summer camps. We are also always looking for advisors, volunteers and guest speakers—especially women—to inspire our young coders. By developing relationships with young women and sharing our firsthand experience as women, we will make a lasting impact and help to make the tech industry more inclusive.
This is not a question for tomorrow. This is a question for right now. We owe it to our girls and our communities to make it a priority in their daily education.
Shannon Landin is the founder and CEO of Codecraft Works. Meagan Bonnell is the Leon County Director of Codecraft Works. For more information, visit codecraftworks.com.
Dr. William T. McFatter welcomes Dr. Valarie Dozier
Seven Lessons That Will Change Your Life
By Michelle Nickens
In 2013, Tallahassee single mom and full-time professional Jenny Cherry decided to enter the wild to help her overcome some personal challenges and enhance her life. Jenny participated in the Bare Bones course in Ocala, Florida, offered by Bryon Kerns Survival. She explained how she learned seven skills— true-life lessons—in her wilderness survival training that can be incorporated every day in how we live and approach life. In order of importance, the seven life lessons include:
1. Positive Mental Attitude—Effectively respond to stress and fear. “I often tell my daughter,” Jenny explained, “that you can’t be brave if you are not afraid. Fear is the question, and courage is the answer. Finding our courage is much easier if we have clearly defined values and a personal mission statement. My
faith is the foundation for my response to whatever life brings.”
2. First Aid—Triage pain and injuries.
“It is inevitable if we are pursuing a life worth living that we are going to get hurt. We can’t give away what we don’t have. Women often put themselves last as a sacrifice for their families and careers. Until we take a self-care inventory and create an action plan to maintain our mental, physical and spiritual fitness, we will continually find ourselves depleted and exhausted. It is here that we often make costly and detrimental decisions.”
3. Shelter—Maintaining consistent core temperature. “Keeping our personal spaces organized, simplified and well maintained will stabilize us to handle the many demands placed on us daily.”
4. Fire—In the wilderness, fire provides light, warmth and protection; dries clothes; purifies water; signals for help; and cooks food. “Our personal fire affects all areas of our life. Don’t allow anything or anyone to put your fire out. Working toward a goal that benefits multiple areas of our life compels us to stay engaged. What ignites you will inspire you during difficult times.”
5. Signaling—Signal for help.“Women are uniquely designed to overcome hardships, but we were not designed to do it alone. Create a support system of likeminded people who will walk with you and point you back to your core values.”
6. Water—On average, people can survive without water for three days. “Avoid dehydration by finding a life source outside yourself. For me, this is
God,” Jenny explained. “When I try to operate out of my own resources or try to drain another person of theirs, I fail. When I tap into the source of my life every day, I can accomplish more than I thought possible.”
7. Food—People can live an average of three weeks without food. Food is last in the order of survival priorities. “In our culture, food is often the first choice when coping with life’s challenges. Eating for energy empowers our body and our mind. Consider eating food in order to fuel your body to accomplish your goals. Eat clean food and less of it.”
Whether trying to survive in the wild or enhance your life, these seven skills offer a strong foundation for moving forward. Be positive. Take care of yourself. Embrace and ask for help. Don’t let your fire burn out. You can change your life—one lesson at a time.
Need a speaker for your next women’s group? Contact Jenny at JennyCherry2017@gmail.com.
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Enjoy active senior living with a variety of a ordable apartments and single-family homes, plus the security of additional support like assisted living and nursing care, all on one campus.
WORKING WOMEN’S WEB
Because every working woman needs connections, the Working Women’s Web (WWW) will provide a network of opportunities, insights, groups and events to help you link up and branch out in your professional space and beyond. Browse here or online at our website, talwoman.com. E-mail us at wwmb@talwoman.com to add your own group, event or working Women to Watch submission.
WORKING W OMEN TO WATCH
Shelia Salyer, Director of Tallahassee Senior Services, recently received the Jay K. Morgan Award from the Florida Association of Senior Centers for her more than 20 years of service. The Jay K. Morgan Award is presented each year to an outstanding professional dedicated to seniors and issues impacting them. Sheila became the director of Senior Services in 1996. Under her leadership, the program has grown to include the participation of 15,000 seniors and nearly 200 programs operating out of the Tallahassee Senior Center.
Hillary Haythorn has been named Trust Officer at Capital City Trust Company. She began working with Capital City Trust Company in 2010 and has a total of 12 years of banking experience with Capital City Bank. Hillary has a business degree in finance from Florida International University and is a current member of the Florida Bankers Association Trust and Wealth Management School. She has served on the board of 621 Gallery and Southside Kiwanis and is currently serving on the board for the Office of the Public Guardian. Hillary also enjoys volunteering for the American Heart Association, the Alzheimer’s Project and Elder Care Services.
Lori Sumner was recently appointed to the position of Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Capital Regional Medical Center. Lori brings 24 years of experience to this role, having previously served as a staff nurse, a clinical educator, a nursing director and health system standards and quality program manager. Lori received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Nova Southeastern University and her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University.
Niki McKinnell recently celebrated her one-year anniversary as Vice President of Public Affairs for the Florida Ports Council (FPC), a nonprofit corporation and the professional association for Florida’s 15 public seaports and their management. Niki brings more than a decade of communications and public affairs experience to the FPC. She received her bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of Florida.
Summer Calenberg , a New York City native and 2017 graduate of the master’s in business program at FSU, recently opened her new business Drip Drop Fitness. Through offering dance cardio fitness classes, Summer strives to connect with and reach the women of Tallahassee, creating a motivated community. Through the business, her goal is to offer an energetic and encouraging atmosphere and a fun take on working out. She wants to change the conversation about fitness—that working out should not be something to dread, but something to look forward to.
Jana McConnaughhay has recently been named as a member of Capital City Bank’s Leon County community Board of Directors. Jana is Board Certified in Elder Law and is managing partner at Waldoch and McConnaughhay, P.A. She is an active community volunteer and currently serves on the boards of Community Foundation of North Florida, the Leon High School Foundation and the Stacey Webb Arts Foundation. Jana also cochairs for the Sweet Dreams Ministry, an organization through Killearn United Methodist Church, that is dedicated to providing beds and bedding for children in the foster care system.
WORKING WOMENS WEB spotlight
offering Manicure and Pedicure Services Featuring: Zoya Nail Polish Products
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Tues.-Friday 9:00am -8:00pm, Sat. By Appointment only
SPOTLIGHT
By Janecia Britt
Gwen Marshall was born in Fort Pierce, Florida, to Louise and David Marshall as the third of four children. She received her bachelor of science in criminology from Florida State University.
Gwen’s career began at the Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers (FCCC) as a receptionist, and then she became an administrative assistant in the newly formed child support department of the FCCC. She worked at FCCC for 17 years in several different positions, which gave her invaluable experience in dealing with local and state government.
In her last position as the member services manager, Gwen’s primary responsibility was to develop, implement and manage the educationtraining program for the 68 elected Clerks of Court and Comptrollers throughout Florida.
Gwen then ran for the office of the Leon County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller and won, making her not only the first woman to hold the position, but also the first African-American woman to hold the position. She is humbled and grateful for this experience and says, “This is my first time ever serving as a public official, and the campaigning experience has opened my eyes to the urgent need for advocacy for the undeserved and underrepresented in my community dealing with other issues besides the criminal justice system.”
As the Clerk of the Circuit and County Court, she is responsible for aiding and promoting the judicial process. The County Comptroller's responsibilities include roles of Comptroller and Treasurer, Ex-Officio to the Board of County Commissioners, County Recorder, County Auditor and Inspector General.
In her spare time, Gwen is a member of the Leon County Black Democratic Caucus and serves as a nursery attendant at her place of worship.
AN ELEGANT SUITE CONCEPT SALON
THE ECONOMIC CLUB OF FLORIDA
By Sydney Schaefer
The Economic Club of Florida is a consortium of like-minded professionals in the Tallahassee area. It is recognized as one of the South’s most dynamic forums for distinguished speakers on today’s important issues. The club’s mission is to serve as a nonpartisan platform for subject-matter experts to share their expertise on relevant economic, political and social issues. “If you want to see some strong women in action, [this] is the place to be,” says current Membership Chair Daria Ibach. Members include current and former governmental and educational leaders, business owners, CEOs of notable private and nonprivate companies and organizations, political strategists and the business-savvy. The club is beneficial for well-established professionals as well as up-andcomers looking to dip their toes into the professional pond for the first time. According to Daria, the Board of Directors recently approved an executive membership—a new profile for those under 35 years old.
The Economic Club prides itself on hosting prominent guests from all over the world to speak on meaningful topics. Past speakers have included national and international public figures, presidential candidates, diplomats and business and finance experts at the top of their fields.
Current member and former high school economics teacher Patricia Cheavers had this to say about her experience with the club: “I thoroughly enjoy my membership in the Economic Club of Florida. My membership provides me an opportunity to ‘rub elbows’ with key educational, political, business and other local community leaders. Participation in our monthly luncheon forums gives me a chance to hear national and international distinguished speakers on the issues of the day. It’s awesome and amazingly fascinating who I personally network with at these forums. I look forward to celebrating our 40th anniversary.”
For more information on how to become a part of this wellestablished community of political and business professionals, visit online at economic-club.com.
FORWARD: WOMEN’S TRANSPORTATION SEMINAR
By Alexandra Pushkin
In 1977, a group of dedicated individuals sought to better the future of the transportation field and the women who help drive it forward. That group of individuals soon became the founders of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS). Since then, the organization has grown internationally to over 6,500 women and men dedicated to the professional development and recognition of women in the transportation field.
With the organization itself having become so widespread, the programs and opportunities it provides reside right at home with the local chapters. In an effort to bring these local efforts to Florida’s capital area, Anita Vandervalk-Ostrander and Sheri Coven founded the local chapter. “There are WTS Chapters in south, central and northeast Florida,” Anita says.
“We really saw a demand for a group to promote women in transportation fields here in our capital city, given our strong state government presence [and] plenty of consultants and contractors.”
The abundance of college students gives rise to the notion of student chapters, following in the footsteps of other Florida schools. “That’s why we felt it all the more important to start a chapter in Florida’s capital area,” Sheri says. “It was an area of the state that wasn’t being served by this worthwhile organization.”
With the goal of providing leadership in global transportation, it is only fitting that the chapter’s annual theme centered on leadership. Upcoming events, according to Anita, include “a book club featuring Boots on the Ground, Flats in the Boardroom, an Emerging Professional Program where we will encourage young women to be mentored, monthly networking lunches [on the] first Friday of every month and quarterly speakers over lunch.” These events will culminate in their end-of-year event featuring a holiday dinner with awards and a keynote speaker.
For more information visit wtsinternational.org/Florida_Capital_Area.
LOCAL CELEBRITY CHEF, SHACAFRICA SIMMONS, A.K.A.
“CHEF SHAC,” IS GOING PRIME TIME
Tune in to Food Network on June 6 at 10 p.m. on your local cable channel, or on foodnetwork.com/shows/chopped to watch Chef Shac compete in Food Network’s popular culinary show, Chopped.
Also participate in the virtual viewing party from 9 p.m.midnight via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Ask Chef Shac a question or just chat with her during the show. Read Chef Shac’s post-interview with TWM in the August-September issue.
“My main goal is to encourage those with a dream to keep pushing forward. I went on Chopped for more than just me... I went for my children, for women who look like me, I went for Tallahassee.”
GROUPS ORGANIZATIONS
GET CONNECTED
Business and Professional Women (BPW)
BPW aims to elevate the standards for working women in business and in local and state government while bringing out the spirit of cooperation among business and professional women. It also aims to promote the interests of business and professional women, including those in the private sector as well as those in local or state government, and to extend opportunities to business and professional women through education along lines of industrial, scientific and vocational activities. To join or learn more about BPW Tallahassee, visit bpwtallahassee.com.
Council on Culture & Arts (COCA)
COCA is a nonprofit organization that serves as the facilitator and voice for the arts and cultural industry in Florida’s capital area. COCA works with and for those who produce, invest in and consume the arts and culture in the area. COCA works hand in hand with the city, county, state and local school district as its cultural industry partners. Members are provided with listings and e-mails of weekly events and opportunities and reduced rates for COCA events. Advertisement and meeting space at low prices are also offered to members. To learn more about COCA, visit cocanet.org.
Leads Groups
Leads Groups are composed of local business people who believe that they can be more successful together than on their own. Through Leads, members share best practices and referrals and encourage each other’s common experiences. Each
group builds a network of trust and confidence that helps its members thrive. Each group is limited to one member from each business category. To check for openings, call (850) 521-3118.
Professional Women’s Forum
Professional Women’s Forum works alongside the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce to provide an informal and interactive lunchtime program that features leaders from the Tallahassee community. The program extends beyond the biographies of the leaders to provide attendees with tools, strategies and takeaways for their own success. To join or learn more about the Professional Women’s Forum, visit talchamber.com.
Tallahassee Network of Young Professionals (NYP)
Tallahassee NYP introduces young people to the “more vibrant side of Tallahassee.” It fosters personal and professional growth by connecting members through activities while offering career-enhancing opportunities. NYP offer members the opportunity to network in various settings and opens the door for long-lasting connections to be made. To join or learn more about NYP, visit tallahasseenyp.com.
Toastmasters International
Members who participate in Toastmasters improve their speaking and leadership skills by attending meetings at one of its meeting locations around town. To find meeting location and to learn more, visit toastmasters.org.
Women’s Prosperity Network (WPN)
WPN was founded to create a new type of networking for women. With the use of online and offline resources, paired with WPN’s signature formula, “Brilliance, Brainstorming and Breakthroughs,” women come together with a commitment to excellence and sharing their gifts and talents. To join or learn more about WPN, visit womensprosperitynetwork.com.
Women Who Mean Business (WWMB) Community
The WWMB Community was created by Tallahassee Woman Magazine for inspiring businesswomen in the Tallahassee area for networking, information and other valuable resources to engage in the community. Activities include networking and educational opportunities, events, online information, newsletters, social media updates and more. There is no fee to become a general member. To register as a member and for additional information, visit the Women Who Mean Business Community online at the website talwoman.com/ Women Who Mean Business.
Working Women Wednesdays at Domi Station is a gathering of a small group of entrepreneurial women who are taking advantage of the collaborative, tech-driven, coworking community at Domi Station on Railroad Avenue. Join in each Wednesday from 1-4 p.m., with a 2 p.m. speaker’s break when a woman leader and/or entrepreneur comes to share their story. For more information contact Barbara Wescott, barbara@swellcoin.com.
BIZSCENE
WWMB Luncheon & Networking
The Women Who Mean Business Community Luncheon and Networking Event was held on March 9, 2017. Business community members attended the sold-out event to network and to take in a presentation on social media, presented by the informative and entertaining duo, Linley Paske and Lauren Pasqualone of the LP2 Boutique Agency. The event was sponsored by the Null-Davino Group at Waddell & Reed and Chicken Salad Chick.
5. Jen Smith, Ashley Helnadollar
6. Tim Dean, Diane McCain
7. Erin Rhodes, Shari Hubbard, Kayla Holloway, Kelly Bench, Marie Mahovetz
8.
WOMEN ON FIRE KEEPERS OF THE FLAME
1. Michael Davino, Tim Dean, Angie Herron 2. Michelle Mitcham, Paula De-Boles Jonhson, Marcia Warfel, Barbara J. Walker, Curtis Richardson
Brittany Chambers, Amy Keys, Tarsha David, Danielle Miller
Barbara J. Walker, Michelle Weathersby, Stacy Rehberg
Ashley Leggett, Holly Hensarling
Arden Fernandez, Suzanne Conner
Kevin Taylor, Judee Light
OUR COMMUNITY
A look at the events, organizations, businesses and people that make Tallahassee a great place to live—and love.
FI n DING a F o RE v ER H o ME
Contributed by Rachel Williams of the Leon County Humane Society
During this year’s Bags 4 Wags fundraising event, the Leon County Humane Society (LCHS) wanted to shine a light on some of our adoptable foster pets that consistently are overlooked by those looking for a new furry family member. Whether it is due to their age, a special need or the curse of “plain” looks, these animals are at a major disadvantage when it comes to catching the eye of a potential adopter.
We challenged our community to help us bring attention to these underappreciated pets by donating to their favorite pet’s online fundraising teams. Whichever animal collected the most in donations would win a page in Tallahassee Woman Magazine and hopefully find their long-awaited forever home. And thus, we present to you Dancer the hound, winner of the Overlooked Pets competition!
Dancer came to LCHS the week before Christmas of 2012, as an orphaned one-weekold puppy. Someone had tied Dancer and her six siblings up in a plastic grocery bag and tossed them away in a ditch by the side of the road. Luckily for these babies, a passing motorist spotted them and stopped to help. Dancer and her siblings grew up in our foster program, transforming from plump, bottle-fed babies to leggy hound puppies until eventually all of them were adopted—including Dancer.
However, heartbreak struck when Dancer was returned to LCHS a few years later. Dancer's forever home had become a temporary home and was no longer a good fit. But instead of a cute, chubby puppy that everyone adored, Dancer was now an extra-large hound with a
booming bark and the oh-so-dreaded “plain” appearance. From a cold, muddy ditch to losing what was supposed to be her forever home and now an extended stay in foster care “limbo,” Dancer has traveled a long road to appear on the page before you. Now she’s hoping to find someone to take the last step to her and become the loving, lifetime home she deserves.
If you’re interested in giving Dancer a forever home or have any questions about her, call LCHS at (850) 224-9193, or e-mail the LCHS Dog Foster Coordinator, Amy Raddar at araddar@lchs.info.
Girl Scouts of the Florida Panhandle Are Looking for Women of Distinction
Contributed by Megan Washington
Do you know an extraordinary woman who has distinguished herself as an outstanding member of the community? A program inspired by Girl Scouts nationally, the Girl Scouts of the Florida Panhandle Women of Distinction Awards honor women from across the Florida Panhandle who truly stand out for their commitment to the community. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2017 Women of Distinction awards program.
The women honored for 2017 will join other women in the Florida Panhandle who have been honored as Women of Distinction since the program’s inception in 1998. All nominees will be honored during the Women of Distinction Awards Gala on November 9, 2017, at the Florida State University Alumni Center.
“The Women of Distinction Awards recognize and honor the women in our community whose leadership and commitment inspire and make the world a better place,” stated Raslean M. Allen, Girl Scout Council of the Florida Panhandle, Inc., Chief Executive Officer. “We invite you to join us by nominating the distinguished women in our community.”
Nominees must live or work in Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor or Wakulla County. They should exemplify extraordinary civic, professional and/or philanthropic commitment and achievement; be a role model for girls; and demonstrate a commitment to advocacy for improving the lives of women and/or girls. Nominees are to demonstrate initiative, integrity
and leadership characteristics and are not required to have been or currently be a Girl Scout. Nominations will be reviewed by an independent selection committee based on standardized criteria for nominees.
Suggested categories include, but are not limited to:
Lifetime Achievement Diamond
• Architecture, real estate, or construction
• Arts
• Business
• Education
• Environment
• Government
• Law
• Media and public relations
• Medicine or health and fitness
• Science, technology, engineering or math
• Social services
• Youth services
The deadline for nominations is August 31, 2017, at 5:00 p.m. Nomination forms can be obtained by visiting online at gscfp.org to complete online or download.
About the Girl Scouts:
The programs and services of the Girl Scout Council of the Florida Panhandle, Inc., teach girls to discover, connect and take action, while building courage, confidence and character to make the world a better place. A United Way agency, the Council currently serves 4,025 girls across19 counties of the Florida Panhandle with the assistance of 2,025 dedicated volunteers. To volunteer or join Girl Scouts, call (888) 271-8778 or visit gscfp.org.
WOMEN
ADMIRE
CHERRY
By Michelle Nickens
“A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing grows there.”
—Dwayne Johnson
Photography by elleBelle Photography
Life is filled with possibilities, but it is often the tragic events that drive change. A tragedy in Jenny Cherry’s life propelled her to overcome her fears and rediscover herself. She did this in a unique and uncomfortable way—she headed into the wilderness. “There I was, the only woman in a group of strangers,” she said, “walking into the wilderness for three days and nights with nothing but a field knife...no tent, no food and no water.”
“I was determined to set an example for my daughter. I never want her to be afraid of life or the challenges it will bring. My daughter is my greatest inspiration.”
In 2013, Jenny decided to face her fears and learn not only how to survive but how to live better. “I had always enjoyed outdoor activities, so when a tragedy happened,” she explained, “it served as the catalyst for my decision.” After divorcing, turning 40 and facing life as a single mom, she had lost track of who she was and her life’s purpose. “I was determined to set an example for my daughter. I never want her to be afraid of life or the challenges it will bring. My daughter is my greatest inspiration.”
“The biggest challenge was the response of my friends, family and coworkers. Other people’s opinions mattered more than I realized. That had been the single most hindering factor keeping me from pursuing my dreams. I was afraid to leave my comfort zone and afraid to make other people uncomfortable with my choices. I overcame this when I realized that life is short, my little girl was looking up to me and I no longer had time to worry about other people’s opinions of me. I knew that if I took intentional risks, pushing myself, I would discover my true self.”
Jenny chose the Bare Bones course in Ocala, Florida, offered by Bryon Kerns
Survival. Byron is a retired Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) trainer for the U.S. military and was featured in a book Jenny was reading, Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Lawrence Gonzales. It is a compilation of survival stories and explains the common things survivors do. Through the course, Jenny learned the following seven survival skills:
1. Positive Mental Attitude
2. First Aid
3. Shelter
4. Fire
5. Signaling
6. Water
7. Food
Jenny says that each of these survival skills can be applied in daily life, whether it is ensuring mental, physical and spiritual health by asking for help and surrounding yourself with a support system. From eating clean and staying hydrated to keeping the fire within. Jenny also stressed the importance of finding a life source outside yourself. “When I tap into the source of my life every day, I can accomplish more than I thought possible. I tell my daughter—you can’t be brave if you are not afraid. Fear is the question, and courage is the answer. Finding our courage is much easier if we have clearly defined values and a personal mission statement. My faith is the foundation for my response to whatever life brings.”
“When we began the first day,” Jenny remembered, “we were tasked with making fire and erecting shelter without instruction or proper skills. We failed. On the third day, the instructor duct-taped one arm to our chest and we were able to make fire and erect shelter with only one hand! Anything is possible. I am a different woman in so many ways from 6 years ago and I never want to go back.”
Since then, Jenny has pursued other activities, such as ballroom dancing, krav maga, dog-sledding, public speaking and solo adventures. “Planning trips and family adventures have become a way of
“When I tap into the source of my life every day, I can accomplish more than I thought possible. I tell my daughter—you can’t be brave if you are not afraid. Fear is the question, and courage is the answer. Finding our courage is much easier if we have clearly defined values and a personal mission statement. My faith is the foundation for my response to whatever life brings.”
life. Exploring new places, food and people dissolves divisive perceptions and expands our hearts and minds. My mission is to inspire women to discover what’s holding them back, cast it off and go forward with a bold assurance. There is something inside all of us that is calling to us. On the other side of this is a reward greater than the fear. Most of us never develop the talents we brought into the world. The things on fire within us are often put under the rug. We take them out and look at them for a while then put them back. If you really want to live, make a list of everything you want to do and start marking them off. Don’t cocoon yourself in comfort. Listen to your voice, not others. Don’t let the past define you. What a shame it would be to go to the grave having never acted on what inspires you.”
(Editor’s note: See page 50 for Seven Lessons That Will Change Your Life for Jenny’s explanation on how each of these survival skills can be applied to life.)
haute HAPPENINGS
Celebrate America Fourth of July Celebration
July 4, 2017 | Tom Brown Park
Under spacious skies in the open fields of Tom Brown Park, young and old alike are invited to Celebrate America on July 4th. There will be patriotic festivities, family-friendly fun and a fireworks display. Celebrate America, the city of Tallahassee’s annual Independence Day festival, includes a spectacular fireworks display around 9:45 p.m. To confirm times and activities, visit Talgov.com.
Frenchtown Farmer's Market
Every Saturday North Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard
The Frenchtown Farmer’s Market operates every Saturday and features a host of vendors with handmade and locally grown products. The market lasts from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Visit tallyconnection.com for more details.
Mysteries of the Unseen World
June 1–10, 2017
Challenger Learning Center
From 10:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., open your eyes to phenomena that can’t be normally seen. Using time-lapse photography, electron microscopy, and nanotechnology, witness events unfold that are too slow to notice with the naked eye and microscopic interaction and look into units of measurement too small for us to notice. This event will play at the same time every day at the Challenger Learning Center Downtown Digital Dome Theatre & Planetarium. For more information, go to ChallengerTLH.com.
The Vintage Vixens
June 2, 2017
Downtown Thomasville, Georgia
Playing some of the biggest hits from the ’60s, the Vintage Vixens are an allfemale band dedicated to retro music and getting the audience on their feet. With free admission, you can bring a lawn chair and blanket and have a groovy time! The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 9:30 p.m. Call (229) 228-7977 for more details.
A Streetcar Named Desire
June 8–23, 2017 | Tallahassee Theatre
The famous drama by Tennessee William focuses on former schoolteacher Blanche DuBois as she leaves small-town Mississippi and moves to New Orleans with her sister Stella and her brother-inlaw Stanley. It is considered to be one of the greatest plays of the 20th century. It opens on June 8th at 8:00 p.m., runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and plays at 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit theatretallahassee.org.
The Ride for Hope
June 9–10, 2017 | N. Florida Fairgrounds
This family-friendly event includes cycling courses, a health fair and expo, a family fun area, music, food and more. The Ride for Hope was started
by brothers Jason and Jeffrey Pharrah, who participated in rides previously to help raise funds for their father, a cancer survivor. They and their mother created this to offer a similar ride for the Tallahassee community. Proceeds benefit the cancer patients and the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center. Visit online at therideforhope.com for more information.
8th Annual What Women Want
June 17, 2017
Tallahassee Automobile Museum
Taking place from 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m., this annual expo features over 100 vendors, door prizes, discounts and guest speakers. Admission is free, and the first 100 women to arrive will receive a gift bag filled with prizes. For more details, call (850) 201-3005.
Footloose
June 23 – July 2, 2017
Young Actors Theatre
A theater adaptation of the classic film, Footloose stars Ren, beginning at a new school in Chicago, where he has to adjust to strict local edicts, such as a ban on dancing from the local reverend. When the reverend’s daughter becomes interested in Ren, her boyfriend sets out to ruin his reputation, beginning the heartfelt story that celebrates the
wisdom in listening to young people, as well as caring for and guiding them. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. every day. For more information, visit online at tallahasseearts.org.
Sundown Summer Concert Series at Cascades Park
June and July, 2017 | Cascades Park
Tallahassee Downtown is pleased to announce the 2017 Sundown Summer Concert Series at Cascades Park. The event is a series of four FREE public concerts held throughout the summer on every third Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m.
The line-up includes:
June 17th:
Humming House with Two Foot Level
July 15th:
Dead Keys with The Midtowners
August 19th:
Roosevelt Collier with JB's ZydecoZoo
There will be a Fun4Tally Kids Zone with tons of family-friendly activities, local food and crafts vendors, as well as all the amazing amenities that Cascades Park has to offer, including miles of trails, Discovery playground, and the Imagination Fountain. For more information, visit capitalcityamphitheater.com
Brunch with us!
SAVE THE DATE!
2017 Tallahassee
St. Jude Run/Walk to End Childhood Cancer
Saturday, September 16, 2017 Southwood Town Center
In recognizing National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Big Bend is joining 62 other communities across the country for a family-friendly 5K event to raise funds to support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Registration for walkers is $10 and $20 for runners. Register your team by visiting online atstjude.org/walkrun. For more information, call (850) 907-1901 or e-mail marie.lofton@stjude.org.
AROUND TOWN
Events • Benefits • Activities
Scholarship Luncheon
The Authors Scholarship Luncheon Chapter FP of P.E.O.’s third annual scholarship luncheon took place in April. P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization that celebrates the advancement of women by helping them reach their educational goals through scholarships, grants and awards. Guests enjoyed lunch while listening to each author discuss their writings and inspirations. The authors that spoke at the luncheon were Glynn Marsh Alam, Saundra Kelley, Judge Terry Lewis and Mary Jane Ryals. After the event, guests were able to meet the authors and purchase their signed books.
1. Saundra Kelley, Michele Beaudin, Judge Terry Lewis, Marina Brown
2. Amy Topol, Lipika Frith
3. Judy Jolly, Alison Hum
4. Charlotte Cummings, Valerie Easterly, Nancy Leatzow
10. Nancy Beach, Doris Pollock, Tami Jewell, Meg Moneyham, Penny Davis
11. Jana Davis, Jane Teuton, Kathy Caleen, Barbera Kionhonze, Pam McVety
10. 11.
our community | around town
BOYS TOWN GALA
On a clear April evening, Boys Town celebrated 100 years of service at its Centennial Gala. In keeping with an “Old Hollywood” theme, attendees walked the red carpet into Florida State University’s University Club at Doak Campbell Stadium, where Spencer Tracy’s Oscar was waiting to take pictures with guests inside. The night consisted of both a silent and live auction with proceeds benefitting Boys Town North Florida.
TMH Foundation Golden Gala
In April, more than 1,600 guests gathered at the Civic Center in their best black-tie attire to support the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Foundation Golden Gala. This year’s event starred country music superstar Brad Paisley and raised funds to support the mission of transforming care, advancing health and improving lives.
1. Dina Strickland, Governor Rick Scott, First Lady Ann Scott
2. Molly Bryan, Mary Rose McCarron, Samantha Loebig
3. Kelly Trotman, Ronnie Bonds
4. Lisa Phipps, Gavin Phipps
5. Melanie Quinton, Marsha Turner
6. Audra Pittman, Autumn Mayfield
7. Kappa Delta Sorority of FSU
8. Denny Pate, Cathy Pate
9. John Pettit, Kelly Pettit
10. Margaret Stauffer, Jason Stauffer
11. Latara lampkin, Marcus lampkin, Jane Snyder
12. Mayor Andrew Gillum, R. Jai Gillum, Christine White, Matt Peter
13. Nan Nagy, Cindy Sullivan, lyla King
1. Eric and Andrea Friall, MD
2. John Lester and Sam Lester
3. Martha Barnett and Rick Barnett
4. Kennth Kato, MD and Nan Nagy
5. Janice Powell, Steven Rhodes, Amanda Karmanos Barksdale, John Gandy, and First Lady Ann Scott
6. Gentle and Alma Littles, MD
A Pioneer of Midtown: Kiersten Lee of Paisley Café
By Janecia Britt
With a background in banking, no one would have guessed that Kiersten Lee would open a restaurant. She wasn’t an experienced chef and had never even waited a table. But with a world of uncertainties in her life, “lightning struck,” as she describes it, and she quit her job and, in 2011, she opened Paisley Café.
The space was originally a warehouse for an interior design company, and everyone thought Kiersten was crazy for going out on this limb. But as she walked through the space for the first time, she began to see a vision for the space and for her future. “It was clear to me—I would redo the outside and add a garden. I would open a little café with a small cozy menu. That’s all I wanted. So, I wrote up a business plan and I prayed. It was absolutely one of the most incredible experiences of my life, and I was able to build something from nothing. It was so special as a woman and now an entrepreneur to pay for this without the assistance of a bank loan,” Kiersten said as she recalled her feelings the first time she walked into the space that would become a long-standing local favorite and one of the first restaurants to inhabit the Midtown area.
Even though she’s faced opposition as a businesswoman, she has persevered by keeping things in perspective. “I don’t care what comes at me and have learned to let it roll. I will always
rise above adversity. I’m also not afraid to stand up for myself anymore. I have to protect my company and my employees.” Being one of the first women to open a business in Midtown, she advises other entrepreneurial women that “you are your business. The brand is you. You have to have purpose, faith and an attorney—a good attorney.”
No matter what has come her way, Kiersten has a loyal and passionate following. More than that, it’s uniquely Kiersten. From the name to the food, you can feel the lighthearted and soulful personality that Kiersten brings. The food, which she describes as “gourmet café” inspired by “cooking at home for family and friends,” helps you to feel like a friend in Paisley Café, and that’s exactly what she had envisioned since the beginning. She says, “I love and respect my customers, and they love and respect me. When you’re in here, you’re family.”
Kiersten shared with us one of her delicious recipes:
Buttermilk Pie
With Lemon Zest
Servings: 8 Yield: 1 pie
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon flour
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
1 pre-made piecrust, unbaked
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and lemon zest.
Whisk in the eggs, 1 at a time.
Stir in the buttermilk and melted butter.
Pour the buttermilk mixture into the pie shell and bake until the top is lightly browned and the center sets, about 25 minutes.
Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Enjoy!
FunnyGirl.
Confessions of a Cell Phone Addict
By Jeannette Katicich
My name is Jeannette and I have a phone addiction. Stand and say, “Hello,” because I am fairly certain I’m not alone. I can admit that, if you see me around Tallahassee, I will undoubtedly be using my smartphone in one way or another—listening to music while grocery shopping, texting at lunch, or on my daily call with my mother, who’s making sure I’m still alive because, “It’s been over 24 hours since I’ve heard from you. You’re a single woman. I worry.”
Thanks to my phone, I stay connected to friends throughout the country, get important information and take a lot of pictures of my boys. My smartphone helps me figure out what to cook for dinner and then decide where to order pizza because I am too tired to cook dinner. It then gives me directions to said pizza place because I am still learning my way around this city. It is a time capsule of my life. I wondered recently—if historians were to find my phone 100 years from now, what would they think?
To them, this small gadget would become the biography of a woman who hit snooze on 6 alarms every weekday morning, never mastered the art of the “selfie” and was slightly (okay, maybe more) infatuated with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. They would marvel at how she used Google to find out everything from “the best drugstore eyeliner” to “fever and severe cough are symptoms of?” (P.S. Never Google that; I was certain I was dying afterward.) The phone would reveal her love for a wide variety of music and inspirational quotations. Text messages would uncover a son in college asking what he should do with his life, and those texts of his teenage brother asking, “What is there to eat?” There would be no less than 5 voicemails from her mother saying she’d called numerous times, asking why no one is answering and wondering if the phone is working.
I’d like to believe historians would conclude this phone’s owner had a busy life, incredible children and a mother who loved her dearly. They might also say she was way too dependent on the device. Upon realizing they would be right and there may be a problem, I have begun creating some distance between myself
and my beloved arm extension. Now, when I sit down for our family dinners (pizza, let’s be honest), my phone is not there. The boys and I communicate in person, by actually speaking, and it is quite the concept. If my teenager wants to discuss something that he finds important (food), I give him my full attention. I can now enjoy, without interruption, when my 9and 5-year-old sons aren’t trying to hurt one another. I encourage my oldest son to call whenever he can. The distance is hard, but just to hearing his laughter makes him seem closer. I am overcoming my aversion to personal interaction because the tone of a voice and the expression on a face are far more beautiful than words on a screen. I now take fewer photos after realizing that, in capturing a “perfect” picture of my kids, I was losing out on really being in the moment with them.
Lately, I try to see my parents more often so my mom won’t worry and my dad can talk to me, as he’s no longer able to hear very well over the phone. It’s been a positive change. I will always be a smartphone addict. However, I now know that when I am with the people I care about, I don’t need to see pictures of what someone else is having for dinner or take a quiz to find out which Disney princess I most resemble (It’s Belle—it is always Belle). Reading about a friend’s day with her family is wonderful, but not when it takes away from my own time with loved ones. I have learned that Google does not hold all of life’s answers, and when I take the time to look past the screen, I have far fewer questions. In those moments when I should be 100 percent present in life, my dear smartphone can wait— unless Prime Minister Trudeau calls.
