Tallahassee Lovebook (2022-2023)

Lucky Goat Coffee, Cover Sponsor

It started with a simple idea make great coffee. We wanted to not only provide the best coffee experience in Tallahassee, but also wanted to ensure that there was a local presence that continued to love and pour back into the community itself.

Loving local runs through our veins. Through our fundraiser program, supporting non-profit organizations and schools with donations and planning events that we know our locals will love, the same thought continues to resonate with us how do we love those within our city. Coffee is all about relationships and our goal, along with other local businesses, is to provide a space where community can be fostered and flourish.

Being the first featured business on the cover of the Lovebook, we are honored that we have the opportunity to showcase what happens when you support local and focus on what matters community.

So grab a cup of coffee (Lucky Goat is preferred!), flip through the Lovebook and get out there to see how you can begin pouring back into your town through supporting local businesses, some you may experience for the first time. You never know how you can help transform where you live by sipping, shopping and playing local!

Ben Pautsch, Lucky Goat Coffee CEO

Celebrating a Life Well Lived . . .

“ My sister, Mary, will always be a part of my heart. Her loving, compassionate, fierce, accepting and generous soul created this wonderful Chelsea Family! My daughter, Jenna, and I will continue her legacy to bring happiness and success to both our Chelsea Staff and Guests. ”

– Sue Peña, Co-Owner

“

Everything we had heard about them was true. Hard working, flexible, really listened to what our desires were (regardless if they were crazy or not), and truly cared about us and became a friend. They always had a smile, which is very important to me and while they took my wife and I to every single house we asked to see, they knew which house we would end up in way before we did. I can honestly say we would not be in the house we are in now without Ekk Realty Group. ”

JAPAN ESE HIBACHI STEAK

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This place is amazing! They give you so much food and the service is amazing! The chefs are extremely talented and funny! They keep you well entertained and taken care of. I would definitely recommend this place! ”

The Smart Choice for Mortgages!

“ I very highly recommend University Lending Group. I needed to buy my new house very quickly and they went out of their way to help make it happen. They facilitated the whole buying process in a way that made it easy for us. My realtor remarked that such a quick buy would not have been possible with any other lending company. In addition, they were kind, patient and professional in all of their dealings with me. Definitely the best option by far in Tallahassee.”

– Allen H.

1501 East Park Avenue (850) 296-1699

Buzz and Holly Reedy Owners

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KITCH - ENCOUNTERS

Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

Over the past 3 years my husband and I have used Kitch-Encounters for 3 renovation projects at our home. We have been VERY pleased with the staff, services and ultimately the super upgrades for our home, which we use and enjoy every day. Based on our experiences, we would not hesitate to recommend Kitch-Encounters to anyone interested in a kitchen or bathroom upgrade, for either new construction or a renovation project. ” — Ann

“ Bastien Dental really is amazing. The entire staff is invested in making your visit comfortable and pleasant. Since I've been going there, I do not ever dread going to the dentist anymore. ”

– Jennifer M.

“ I had three cavities filled yesterday and it was the most pleasant dental experience I’ve literally ever had! The lady who did my fillings was extremely gentle. The nurse who was helping her was also extremely gentle and kind. I’m very glad to be a new patient here, I was nervous for no reason! ”

– Hannah H.

– Keith P.

“ It’s wonderful, best pastries in town, the staff are incredible. CHANGE NOTHING, it’s perfect! ”

“ Capital Veterinary Specialists are the best. They provide excellent, compassionate care and have a wide range of specialties to meet your pet's needs. Dr. Drygas saved our dog’s life when he was very young and still sees him today at 10 years old.”

– The Duncans

Kevin Drygas Surgeon

“

I appreciated the prompt and friendly service. They stayed in contact with me through text, email and phone. They were on time and quick with the plumbing issue I needed done. They provided me with a quote and I was able to pay over the phone. I highly recommend.”

– The Kleins

Eat, Drink & Talk Loud . . . You’re Among Friends!

“ This is hands-down our favorite restaurant in Tallahassee. The menu is always different and every dish we have ever ordered is stellar. The dessert menu is AMAZING. Eating here is always a wonderful experience. ”

– Mrsbholl

“

Wow!!!! This place has thought of every detail when it comes to flavor and creativity! I can’t wait to come back and see what they create next. The menus change daily. So be ready for a tasty surprise each time you visit! ”

– Amanda B.

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My husband has been at St Augustine Plantation for almost 7 months, and I think the staff has done an awesome job of making the best of the very difficult situation caused by the COVID-19. They do their best to keep life as interesting as possible for the residents, and they clearly care a lot for the people there. I've also really appreciated the updates about what's going on.

”

– Janet N.

More Than Mortgages

“

I had the absolute BEST mortgage experience with Movement Mortgage. I've purchased many homes over the years, but I have never experienced anything like this – you guys are AMAZING! Then, when I found out the profits go to build schools and provide relief for those less fortunate it was just the icing on the cake. Cheers to you! ”

— Brian M.

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Very friendly and professional staff. Highly recommend. They are accommodating with busy schedules and work with you to find a time that works best. As far as the quality/results of procedures performed there is nowhere better in Tallahassee in my experience. ”

– Lren F.

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“ This place is simply amazing! It has to be the most picturesque, quaint, adorable, and delicious restaurant I’ve ever dined in, hands down. I love the ambiance and southern charm and don’t even get me started on the cornbread. Five stars . . . I can’t wait to visit Bainbridge again so I can go back! ”

– Rebecca

“ What an amazing stay at The Willis Park Hotel. Accommodations were so perfect for our weekend getaway! Rooms were stylish and clean. The balcony overlooking the square was a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and a cup of coffee in the morning. Very well done Tyler and Heather! We can't wait to come back!! ”

Thank You For 5O Fantastic Years,

“ Paul’s came to my house the same day I called! They were very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. The entire team was a pleasure to work with and answered all of my questions/concerns. ”

– Lauren S.

“ I am extremely pleased and happy with my new deck. G&S team did excellent work, with attention to detail, and clean results. My whole Trex deck came out much better than expected, such a high quality product. I was blown away with the results!

Thank you G&S team! ” — Sonia Ayala

In a world where you can be anything, be . . .

Great Food ’ Great Time

– Stephen M.

“ Short wait time even though they were extremely busy, friendly staff, quick delivery of our orders and very generous servings! ”

“ The whole team is to be recognized from scheduling, to providing care, to checkout. Very efficient and friendly staff. Thank you all for merging your talents and wonderful spirit of family in providing personalized care for your patients. ”

— Johnnie S.

— Linda

, Cancer Patient

“ I ’ ve never had a doctor like Dr. Patel, he truly cares, and the whole staff is wonderful.”

Mathis

“ I needed fiowers for same day Saturday and called Hilly Fields and talked to the owner, David. He was so pleasant! The choices that were offered were beautiful and fresh, and David had no problem delivering this bouquet for me within a few hours of my ordering it! I will be using them every time I need fiowers in the Tallahassee area. ”

— Erin A.

“ Villas at Killearn Lakes . . . feels more like a cozy family Home than a large nursing home or assisted living facility. The kindness and compassion of the caring staff are unsurpassed. The quality and specialized attention given to each Elder is crafted to their specific needs and desires. I am so grateful to have found the Villas for my mother.”

— Gay Webster S.

A unique neighborhood of Homes for Assisted Living and Memory Care

Whiddon received his bachelor’s degree from McMurry College, his master’s from Florida State University, where he also taught for five years, and his postgraduate work in Public Administration from Nova University. He is a veteran and served in the United States Air Force from 1966 through 1970. He is involved in numerous civic and conservation organizations. He has been married for fifty-five years and has two children and one four-year-old granddaughter. Whiddon enjoys calling turkeys, wing shooting, mentoring children from single-parent families, and writing children’s short stories. He currently is a partner in MGW Outfitters, a prestigious wing shooting operation in Argentina and Uruguay.

THE SUNSHINE SHENANIGAN

It’s the early ’90s, and Florida’s Medicaid program is growing fast. Webb Epsy, the well-respected and spirited leader of Florida’s Medicaid Regulatory Office, has inadvertently discovered that large amounts of money are being siphoned from the state’s Medicaid coffers. Those responsible are doing so for reasons far more complicated and nefarious than greed. The resulting investigation leads him and his unconventional staff into the path of a mysterious and dangerous adversary, determined to keep them off his employers’ trail at any cost. Drawing on his personal resources and connections, Espy enters into a chess match of wits and wills, leading to several unanticipated consequences for himself, his team and the world. Reflecting on the Florida Medicaid program’s uncontrolled expansion and

John M WHIDDON

John M. Whiddon is a native Floridian, born in the small panhandle town of Chattahoochee, Florida. An avid reader and writer with a background in the healthcare industry, Whiddon ran Florida’s Medicaid Program Integrity Office for more than a decade and upon retirement opened a private healthcare regulatory consulting business in 1995.

the unknown extent of Medicaid fraud and abuse in America’s history, this story could be all too true.

THE FI$CAL AGENT

After spending fourteen agonizing months recuperating in a rehabilitation facility in Switzerland due to a foiled assassination attempt, Webb Epsy, renowned systems expert, former university professor, public servant, best-selling author and multimillionaire, returns home to the Florida Panhandle to restart his life. Invigorated and once again challenged with renewed purpose and focus due to therapeutic insights and refreshed romantic interests, Espy returns home and is faced with updated information linked to the attempt on his life and unanticipated consequences that force his participation towards closure. To this end, Espy, initially a reluctant participant in a world of international conspiracy and intrigue, discovers an unknown heinous and evil adversary. In a role reversal, Espy is no longer hunted, but is enticed to become the hunter. Once more teamed with several members of his cadre of the talented support cast, former adversaries, as well as an unintentional new cerebral weapon, the predator role takes him into the bowels of the invisible government, and forces choices, compromises and conciliations that will challenge his moral core. THE FI$CAL AGENT is the second part sequel to THE SUNSHINE SHENANIGAN, which will ultimately be a trilogy. The final part is a work in progress and will be titled DIE-ALY$IS.

with John M. Whiddon

As interviewed by SHANNEN MOHR

MOHR: You waited for a while to write your first book. Why?

WHIDDON: The short answer is COVID, I guess. If there was any kind of silver lining in the pandemic, it's that it took away all the alibis I had for procrastination.

M: Have you previously published anything?

W: Yes, I had several publications back when I was in academia and a few uncopyrighted things for The National Wild Turkey Federation. I’ve always written things for the kids, so when they’re older and they want to know what the old man was really like they might catch a glimpse. I’ve decided to publish several of those, especially those where the statute of limitations has run out.

M: Where in the world do you come up with some of these unique characters for your stories?

W: That’s rather easy. I’m from Chattahoochee, you see. The local community had some very strange and interesting characters and personalities. A few of them were even patients. No, most of my characters are based on someone I’ve known or dealt with in the past. They may have come from a different place or time; however, their characteristics are based on the real deal. Some characters I invent by taking traits from several individuals and integrating them.

M: The three primary questions most readers come away with after having read THE SUNSHINE SHENANIGAN are: (1) Who is the Host, (2) There will be a sequel, right? And, (3) How much of this is true?

W: Well, one can find out the identity of “The Host” by reading the “Prologue” of the second book, THE FI$CAL AGENT (Most will never guess!) which also answers the question regarding a sequel. The story could not abruptly end with one or even two books. It required three, because my wife said it could not be made into a miniseries unless there were three

of the dang things. I have just finished writing the third and final part of the trilogy. It will be titled DIE-ALY$IS! The question concerning how much is true is not all that easy to answer. If you change one small fact of a real event you have created fiction. I have most certainly created considerable fiction from real events.

M: Do you always know how your story is going to progress and ultimately end?

W: Generally, yes, however, some crossroads seem to naturally spring up in storytelling that provides for twists that were not originally anticipated. I enjoy those opportunities that promote the: “Wouldn’t it be interesting if,” “What if,” or “What about if.” I like “Epilogues” in some instances to quench the thirst of readers that need some story or character closure.

M: Do you have any specific favorite character/s?

W: I love them all. The real ones, as well as the ones I’ve created. If I had to pick a couple of favorites, I would say of course, I like Marsha Kaye, “M”, Kat and Willie Dozios.

M: What about Webb Espy?

W: Webb Espy is a mythical creature. However, my daughter, Alexandra, would say: “Dad, Webb Espy is just John Whiddon on steroids and mushrooms!”

M: You mentioned earlier that throughout the years, you wrote for your kids and are planning to publish some of those stories. Is that your next project?

W: Since the statute of limitations has run out . . . The next project is going to be titled, THOSE GOBBLING THINGS AND GROWING UP SOUTHERN.

M: Tell your readers one interesting thing about you that no one would ever guess.

W: I’m a helpless romantic with tales that need embellishing.

“ Not your ordinary crime story. A set of characters both colorful and dangerous; a narrative that is perfectly paced and a story that will keep you turning pages. ” ★★★★★

“ A scary insight into the Medicaid and Medicare rip-off by fraudulent pharmacies and mafia type criminals! Although fictional, Whiddon weaves a believable tale of intrigue and suspense. His characters come to life with stunning clarity, fitting the mold of their intended part in discovering and unraveling a monstrous fraud ring. ”

“ Words can not describe how amazing the Fournier Law Firm is. I had a very messy divorce and child custody case and no one but Gena could have done what she did so flawlessly. She always had my children's best interests and safety in mind. She went out and beyond for my family. There are not enough words to say how thankful and blessed I was to have her! ”

“ Bowden’s Carpet Cleaning has always done an excellent job for my real estate and property management company. I use them exclusively because of their reliability, competitive pricing and attention to detail. I've also used them for water extraction and cleanup and they did an excellent job as well. I trust them so much that I refer them to all of my customers and friends. ”

“ It’s awesome to have a local toy store! Great environment and really enjoy taking my family there instead of the big box toy aisles. Owner and staff are always helpful and have great suggestions for gifts. Fun, and safe environment for kids imaginations to run wild. Worth the stop! ”

— Stephen

“ Eastwood is the best pharmacy in Tallahassee. They have the friendliest, most professional staff of any pharmacy in town. They go above and beyond to serve Tallahassee and the surrounding area for all your pharmaceutical needs. As a long time customer, I feel like they are family to me!!!” — Belinda

“

STILL 5 stars! Food and service is consistently very good. I mean the pizza and cheese bread is just amazing. Today my partner and I shared the meatballs (YUM! That sauce!) and the cheese bread (always amazing). You're missing out if you haven't tried this local sourdough crust pizza place. ”

– Melaine

“ Not only did he get everything in stock in a couple of days, they were at the house on day/time promised ”

— Apima

“ They are very thorough and friendly folks. Highly recommend! ” — Russell

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Joining D1 has been a great experience for my 3 athletes. We have participated in both group classes and personal training and have seen great results. Not only are my kids working hard and seeing gains, they are building relationships with amazing trainers that truly care about them, beyond the workout. I highly recommend D1.”

“ Thomasville Family Medicine doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians and staff are all professional, courteous, knowledgeable and friendly. They treat you well while maintaining a safe environment. I have received wellness and medical care at Thomasville Family Medicine for over 40 years. I am very pleased with them. ”

Rachel Bennefield, FNP Thomas Edwards, MD Davelyne Hines, FNP

Jeremy Poole, DO

Timothy Thomson, MD

Rainey Williams, FNP Elving Colon, MD

Welcome Breanna Walters, MD

Calvin Reams III, MD

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The truth about who we are lives in Our Hearts. Our call to courage is to protect our Wild Heart against constant evaluation, especially Our Own.

Real Authentic

“ All I can say is . . . DELICIOUS! Real Authentic Jamaican cuisines that were worth every dime. My wife and I loved our meals and the portion sizes were amazing. Oxtails were very tender and the Turkey Wings were seasoned just right. We definitely will be back soon. ”

– Malcolm S.

Caribbean Cuisine

“ Why is the 'Hot Now' sign so hypnotic? I try not to look at Krispy Kreme when I'm driving by. Because, if I see that sign lit up, the car automatically pulls in! ”

– Tami W.

“ OMG . . . over the top yummy. Look at these new creations! And now they have mini donuts too! Just do it. You only are here on earth a short amount of time! Enjoy ”

– David Harris IV

We Put the FUN in Fundraising

“ The folks here know their stu ! Adding adjustments to a vehicle can be scary . . . they walked me through using my new lift, adjusted the chair, added extra support and tested all the equipment. They are also incredibly kind and thoughtful! Five stars isn’t enough . . . they should be awarded many more! ”

Robin O’Donnell Owner

“

I originally came in to seek treatment for my daughter who needs braces. I didn’t want her doing it alone so I considered getting them done together but a little hesitant because of my age. From the moment we came in everyone was just so sweet! They took their time explaining the process which made me feel so comfortable.

When Dr. Taylor came in to speak with me she embraced us with hugs and I just knew this was the place! She was honest and let me know what to expect in the time of treatment. I’m so glad I moved forward and already seeing such a difference in my smile, in only a month!

The entire staff is just so friendly, patient, and caring! I can't say enough great things about this practice. Tallahassee is lucky to have you!

Thank you, Redemption Orthodontics and May God bless you all! ”

– Erika

“ Leon was one of the first participants in a community initiative called Learn from a Local, which aimed to keep people connected virtually at the start of the COIVD-19 pandemic. His videos were among the most-watched, and his recipes were absolutely amazing! ”

— Stacy

Leon’s at Lake Ella Coming Soon

1611 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee, Florida 32303

LeonsTallahassee.com leon@leoncbrunson.com

Chef and Owner, Leon C. Brunson

“ This place practically saved my life because I was ready to give up on life. I’ve been in three or four other shelters and I’ve never seen anything like this one. The staff has been very kind to me and treated me with respect. ”

— Edward F., a former client who moved into housing in June 2022

“ I’ve seen the impact on the lives of not only the coaches, but kids through FCA. ”

Bowden’s involvement with FCA began in 1963, when he was hired at Florida State as an assistant coach.

“As I was coaching, I could really see the need,” Bowden said at an FCA banquet. “I’ve got 100 boys there, and half of ’em haven’t got a daddy. It was very obvious to me what’s missing in our society. I could see where FCA could help close that gap.”

— Legendary FSU Coach, Bobby Bowden

“ I’ve used Sarah for both a maternity session as well as a family session and she is wonderful! She has a calming aura, which pairs well in the chaos of motherhood. Her approach is gentle yet enthusiastic as she values both posed and candid moments that remind every mother of those little things that are unique as well as “age and stage” of their children. I highly recommend her services! ”

— Lori