Tallahassee Woman Magazine April/May 2021

GOLDEN GALA XXXVII IS BACK!

SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

After several postponements due to COVID-19, we are thrilled to bring Tallahassee’s premier black-tie event back on Thursday, September 16, 2021. Hosted by the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) Foundation, The Golden Gala supports the TMH mission of transforming care, advancing health and improving lives. Enjoy an evening of good company, dinner and entertainment by

Grammy nominated OneRepublic. Golden Gala XXXVII benefits the Walker Breast Program at TMH.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. 100% of all sponsorships will support the Walker Breast Program. Contact Nigel Allen, President and Chief Advancement Officer, 850-431-5752.

PURCHASE YOUR TABLE AT TMH.ORG/GALA.

To all the HealthCare Heroes,

We see you.

You have faced a frightening virus for more than a year, and we know it hasn’t been easy.

You were there at the beginning, when we knew little about COVID-19, and you’re still there, working through exhaustion to take care of our community.

You’ve saved many lives, and you’ve held many hands. We all owe you a debt we can never repay.

You probably don’t consider yourselves heroes, but we do.

We see your grit. We see your determination. We see your self-sacrifice, and we are so grateful.

We see you, and we will not forget.

Visit TMH.ORG/Hero to learn how you can provide encouragement and support to healthcare heroes.

LETTER FROM PUBLISHER

LETTER FROM GUEST EDITOR

TRENDS

Fashion: Comfort and Style

She Says Social: Why do you love reading Tallahassee Woman Magazine? Faves & Raves

LIVING LOCAL

Haute Happenings: Local & Virtual Events

We Elevate: A Champion For Children, Principal April Knight

BUSINESS

Business: There Can Be No

Balance Without Boundaries

Special Section: Mean Business Journal

Woman on the Move

Men Who Mean Business

Legal Writes: Dana Brooks

Women to Watch

Healthy Living: Vitamin L

On the Cover

Lisa Davis

FAMILY

Life: Letter to My Mother Life: Mental Health Awareness Nella's Sausage & Corn Chowder

WOMAN

PUBLISHER

Dr. Michelle Mitcham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Tavia Rahki

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Olivia Heyward

RELATIONSHIP ASSOCIATE Breanna Rittman

DIRECTOR OF MULTIMEDIA Cristina Carter

INTERNS

Lilly Simons

Sofia Jimenez

Amber White

CREATIVE CONSULTANT Briana Smith

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS Marcia Warfel

DIRECTOR OF LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES Paula DeBoles-Johnson

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT LIAISON Renée Jean-Charles

DIRECTOR OF LUXURY TRAVEL Regina Lynch Hudson

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Ashley Amrita Thesier

ADVERTISING

For information on advertising, visit talwoman.com, call (850) 893-9624, or e-mail ads@TalWoman.com.

TALLAHASSEE WOMAN is a publication of Mitcham Media Group LLC Post Office Box 16616 | Tallahassee, FL 32317-3401

Phone (850) 893-9624 | Fax (850) 254 -7038 | info@TalWoman.com

Tallahassee Woman is published six times per year and is distributed on a complimentary basis throughout Tallahassee and the surrounding communities.

In Honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Month Big Bend Hospice would like to say to our Incredible Volunteers!

Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart. – Elizabeth Andrew

CONTRIBUTORS Contributors

KELLY OTTE WRITER

MONIQUE AKANBI, PHR, SHRM-CP WRITER

Monique Akanbi is a certified HR professional with broad-based experience. Monique has a passion for service and assisting others in their identification of purpose and potential. A Miami native who has made Tallahassee her home since 2011.

Kelly Otte, Founder and Interim Executive Director, Oasis Center for Women & Girls. She has worked in organizations serving girls, domestic and sexual violence, and women centers in Nevada, Virginia, Jacksonville & Tallahassee, Florida. She has a MPA, University of North Florida and a MOM from Alex and Samantha.

CRISTINA CARTER WRITER

Cristina Carter, Tallahassee native, fluent in Spanish Teaches Multicultural Dimensions of Film and 20th Century Culture at Florida State University. She codirected/ co-produced the documentary, "Las Chicas" about a group of classy local Latinas who find sisterhood and community in the south.

PAULA DEBOLESJOHNSON WRITER

Johnson is a trainer, speaker, author and mentor. She leads with passion and authenticity, helping others to take their careers-and themselves-to unprecedented levels. She works with Leon County Government and Capital City Youth Development Corporation. Her family are her greatest treasures.

REGINA LYNCHHUDSON WRITER

Veteran publicist and luxury lifestyle experience-aholic, Regina Lynch-Hudson, pens MadameXhales, slated towards the vintage of woman that enjoys more time to travel.MadameXhales explores destinations, cruises, resorts, spas and extracurricular activities.

KIRA KARRIBEAN WRITER

Karribean is a Tallahassee native who enjoys all things artistic. Honing in on her skills as a fashion model, she’s making her mark behind the camera too. Her deep love of writing, capturing the moment, and spreading truth fuels her drive to make a positive impact on the world.

DR. DAWN ERICSSON WRITER

Dr. Dawn Ericsson is a graduate of Yale University and State University of New York’s medical school. Currently, Dr Ericsson is the Medical Director at Age Rejuvenation. Married with three children, she holds membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Jack and Jill of America.

KIRA DERRYBERRY PHOTOGRAPHER

Kira Derryberry is a Tallahassee-based portrait photographer specializing in families, headshots and boudoir and commercial photography. She books locally in Tallahassee and is available for travel worldwide. View Kira’s portfolio online at kiraderryberry.com.

DR. GABRIELLE K. GABRIELLI WRITER

Dr. Gabrielle K. Gabrielli is a leadership coach, speaker, and trainer. She owns a consulting business and runs a Leadership Academy. She also heads a nonprofit organization to benefit people with disabilities including veterans. In her spare time, she fosters animals, scuba dives, flies planes, runs, and cycles.

OUR BANKERS are

For more than 125 years, Capital City Bank

has operated from a position of strength and in the best interests of our clients. We continue to thrive because of our experienced leadership team, dedicated bankers, financial soundness and loyal clients.

Visit one of our 10 full-service locations or eight Virtual Teller Machines to meet your Tallahassee banking team. If you’re looking for a strong, local bank, switch to Capital City Bank today.

Mary Wellington Client Experience Manager

Capital City Banker since

2009

PUBLISHER From the

Hello AND SISTERHOOD! SpringSunshine

Spring marks the end of winter and the beginning of a fresh new season filled with sunshine, hope and seemingly incessant possibilities! In this issue, we celebrate the 15th anniversary of Tallahassee Woman Magazine. For 15 years, TWM has been highlighting the stories of women, showing their hearts, passion, courage, and love for this beloved community while inspiring women to live their best quality lives. I am honored to be a part of this history, alongside so many outstanding women in Tallahassee and so excited about celebrating the Rockstar women in this issue! On behalf of the entire Tallahassee Woman Magazine team, thank you so much for supporting our efforts and being a fan of the OEV-certified women and minority-owned publication. It is our goal to be inclusive and celebrate all of the diverse and talented women of our great city of Tallahassee. To all of the advertisers, we thank you for making the conscious decision to advertise in the award-winning Tallahassee Woman magazine, considering that women are the world’s most powerful consumers and have the greatest buying power, influence, and economic impact. To the men that make a difference in the community and salute the contributions of women, congratulations to the third annual “Men Who Mean Business!”

Powerful boss women are leading the way as seen on the cover, featuring the fabulous super mom of four, Lisa Davis, our indefatigable wellness advocate and cheerleader for women. Another strong woman blazing a trail is Amanda Morrison, one of the “25 Women You Need To Know in 2021,” serving as our incredible guest editor for this anniversary issue. Don’t miss her greeting to the community, exclusive interview with Lisa, and, her delectable featured recipe!

The dynamic Dana Brooks, a true boss, shares her empowerment tips and secrets to success. TWM is honored to have Dana as the new legal expert contributor featuring

her column, Legal Writes. Congratulations on being a “Woman Who Means Business!”

“A strong woman is one who feels deeply and loves fiercely. Her tears flow as abundantly as her laughter. A strong woman Is both soft and powerful, she is both practical and spiritual. A strong woman in her essence is a gift to the world.”

~Native American saying

“ A strong woman is one who feels deeply and loves fiercely.”

I have always be inspired by strong and sensitive women. The first role model was my mom, for whom I am so grateful. She was strong, brilliant, magnanimous, and so loving. She taught my brothers and me to love others, cherish and honor your family, and be kind. My mom was accepting of all different people and personalities. It was a blessing to have had her for the first 19 years of my life as her love was unparalleled and truly a gift. I hope that all mothers realize that the most important gift is the gift of unconditional love.

In this issue, our own Kelly Otte shares her

powerful and heartfelt letter for Mother’s Day. I encourage everyone to write a letter to their mom, mother figure, or to the woman that had the greatest influence in their life. Taking time to reflect and practice mindfulness and gratitude is one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself, your family, and all the sisters in your life.

Wishing you love and light,

Dr. Michelle Mitcham

EDITOR guest

For the last fifteen years, Tallahassee Woman Magazine has not just shared the stories of incredible women in our community, but it has also built a sisterhood. In these pages we read about powerful women who have achieved great success and we cheer for them. We read of their struggles and find comfort, because we too have had to overcome challenges. We grieve for their losses, because we’ve all felt the void that can be left behind.

This is a place where we unapologetically celebrate each other because for so long and still so often, not many other people will. Some women we know, and it’s thrilling to see the light shine on them for what you’ve admired all along. Some start out as strangers, but not for long, because after we read their story, we know them in a way that only other women can.

Within these pages, we are not only inspired to be the best version of ourselves, but to also find grace and forgiveness when we think we’ve fallen short. Because that’s the thing about women- we wear so many different hats and can achieve so much, yet we never seem to think we’re doing enough. Then we see ourselves through the eyes of our peers and mentors and we realize that we are so strong. We are so powerful. What we do daily is a TRIUMPH.

“ This is a place where we unapologetically celebrate each other because for so long and still so often, not many other people will.

This anniversary isn’t just the celebration of a magazine, it is a celebration of every single woman in Tallahassee. The ones who have graced these pages, the ones to come, and the ones whose stories we might never hear but still know because they are so much like our own. So, while it’s usually tradition to give a gift to the birthday girl on such a momentous occasion, it feels like we are the ones who have received the greatest gift- the gift of community. On behalf of all your readers, I offer up my sincere gratitude to the women who have made Tallahassee Woman Magazine what it is today. Cheers to the next fifteen years and beyond!

Amanda Morrison

Native New Yorker, Amanda Morrison studied Hospitality at Florida State University and fell in love with Tallahassee while she was in school. After making the connections she needed to launch her career, she decided Tallahassee was the place where she wanted to stay.

Amanda started as an employee at College Town’s Madison Social and but quickly was offered the chance to buy-in and become a partner. Fast forward years later and exponential growth, Amanda is a managing partner of Social Catering & Events, making a huge impact on the way Tallahassee sees the hospitality industry.

TRENDS Trends COMFORT & STYLE

By Kira Karribean

ROOMY, WIDE-LEG TROUSERS HAVE BEEN SEEN ON VIRTUAL RUNWAYS DURING FASHION WEEKS ALL OVER THE WORLD.

Skin is in for spring 2021 as seen by the number of skin-baring silhouettes and styles on the runways. Feminine, dreamy, and romantic looks that many of us are craving this year.

This season we’re swapping out our wardrobe staples, i.e., sweatpants and our favorite hoody for chic elevated versions of the two. Roomy, wide-leg trousers have been seen on virtual runways during fashion weeks all over the world, along with balloon sleeves and puff shoulders that grace the silhouettes of otherwise ordinary tops. You can wear both together or play with proportions depending on your body type and what makes you feel your best.

This combination of comfort and style are the perfect solution during lingering pandemic life, and make a great transition from the frigid winter months into Florida’s anticipated spring season. As spring bleeds into summer, and the heat rises, you can replace your high-waist wide leg trousers for leg barring, beach inspired shorts or mini skirt options. Whether it’s a small cookout or walk in the park, keep style in the forefront while soaking up some vitamin D directly from the sun’s rays.

QWhy do you love reading Tallahasse Woman Magazine?

She says Social

“Tallahassee Woman Magazine is an asset, showcasing incredible women, businesses and topics to empower our community!”

Chantal English Miller

“ I love to read about up and coming successful women. I love reading the advertisements made for women in mind. I love this Magazine . We share it with all of our customers!”

Barbie Jordan

“

In a word, inspiration. When I see what women in my community are doing to make it a better place to live, I know I can always dig a little deeper and contribute more. Thank you for the reminder!”

Dana Brooks

“

“DIVERSE

“ I love reading TWM because it embraces and celebrates diverse women right here in our capital city! I love reading about women who are leading in business, government and in medicine alongside women who are shining as stay at home moms and volunteering in the community. It tells the story of everyone young and young at heart!”

AND ENTERPRISING WOMEN ARE HIGHLIGHTED”

Laura Rogers

“Love the stories of women from all different backgrounds” @imagebylisa

'Who runs the world? GIRLS!' and Tallahassee Woman Magazine showcases the undeniable POWER and I NFLUEN CE of women and girls in our community!"

Cecka Rose Green

Renee Rivers

“Love finding out about the women making our community better!”

@grandlife_moments_photography

"I love reading @talwomanmag for the style and beauty inspiration" @sweetofaces

Tourism in Tallahassee

If 2020 taught us anything, it was to not take simple acts like going out to dinner or seeing a concert for granted. It taught us as people and professionals to be more resourceful, adaptable and innovative. The year also showed that diversity and inclusion is something that all of us must intentionally address.

The Leon County Division of Tourism, also known as Visit Tallahassee, has seen firsthand the devasting effect that COVID-19 has had on the local tourism industry and our economy. Last year was the toughest year our destination hotels, restaurants, retail, museums and attractions has ever endured. Some businesses didn’t survive, others are barely hanging on, and the early “adapters” are finally seeing signs of growth. Yet, optimism for the future of tourism in Tallahassee remains steadfast. Tallahassee is without a doubt, one of the most creative, innovative, resilient and sustainable destinations in America.

Emerging from under the dark clouds of COVID-19, there is pent-up demand for travel and a desire to explore new places, outdoor adventure and cuisine, reminding us how essential travel is to our personal and collective well-being.

To be sure, the perception of Tallahassee being thought of as only a college football or legislative town is slowly changing. Rich cultural history and heritage, vibrant arts and culture, over 700 miles of trails to explore and excellent dining and lodging options in every section of town beckon travelers and residents to experience Florida’s Capital City.

Brighter Days Ahead

The future of tourism in Tallahassee looks bright. While it is anticipated we will not see a full recovery until 2022, we’re already seeing increases in visitors and hotel occupancy that directly impact our residents through generating tourismrelated jobs and significant economic impact.

The Leon County Division of Tourism/Visit Tallahassee is fully funded through the Tourist Development Tax (TDT), collected from visitors staying in short-term rentals (hotels, home share platforms, etc.) in Leon County, per Florida Statute 125.0104. TDT funds all marketing and promotional efforts designed to increase visitation to Tallahassee/Leon County.

Sports Leading The Way

Led by Amanda Heidecker and Joe Piotrowski, sports events returned in the fall of 2020 and brought with them a much-needed boost to the local economy. With new safety protocols in place, Leon County safely hosted 7 cross-county events at the County’s renowned Apalachee Regional Park (ARP) as well as the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 1A-8A Football Championships at Doak Campbell Stadium. It was thrilling to have Tallahassee’s own Rickards High among the teams that competed for the title!

Tourism Impact for Leon County (2018 – 2020)

Supporting Arts & Culture Tourism

Leon County Division of Tourism/Visit Tallahassee provides 20% of annual Tourist Development Tax collections to the Council on Culture and Arts (COCA) and local arts organizations, making them a vested stakeholder in drawing visitors to the destination through cultural, arts, and heritage tourism promotion. Over the last three years, more than $3.5 million in Tourist Development Tax has been provided to support local arts and cultural organizations in the community.

Diversity & Inclusion

Dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, Visit Tallahassee proudly amplifies the visibility of Black owned businesses through digital content dedicated to the Black experience on VisitTallahassee.com, including specialized itineraries, a photo gallery, artist profiles, mural tours, and by showcasing a new generation of young and gifted Black entrepreneurs who are taking Tallahassee’s culinary scene by storm.

Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week

By Exploring Tallahassee

During the first week of May, Tallahassee will celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week, a time when travel and tourism professionals unite to acknowledge the value travel has on the economy, businesses and personal wellbeing.

There is so much happening all around Tallahassee right now - try a new restaurant, see a new mural, explore a new trail, shop at a new store – and find some favorites right in our own backyard!

Faves & Raves

DIVINE CONSIGN

Kate Spade dress $130 1661 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL 32303

850.999.1811

J. LYNN’S BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT

Yves Saint Laurent bag $1,100 2887 Kerry Forest Pkwy Ste 4, Tallahassee, FL 32312

850. 765.0342

HEARTH & SOUL

Feathers Toureg candle by Baobab $115 1410 Market St. Tallahassee, FL 32312

850.894.7685

HEARTH & SOUL

Oprah's Favorite Medium

PINK NARCISSUS

LOCAL Living Local

LIVING

HAUTE Happenings

CHAIN OF PARKS ART FESTIVAL

April 17 10:00am-5:30 pm April 18 10:00am-4:00pm Park Avenue

Are you a devout art patron or enthusiast looking for a creative way to spend your weekend? Located downtown along Park Avenue, the 21st Annual Chain of Parks Art Festival “provides an opportunity for art lovers and artists to connect over the weekend.” This year, the festival will be a limited (FREE) ticketed event, but has expanded to include a 10-day kickoff featuring Covid-conscious artistic events leading up to the event (visit chainofparks.org for more details).

WORD OF SOUTH FESTIVAL

April 10-11

Cascades Park, 1001 S Gadsden St

Word of [South] is a festival of literature and music featuring writers and musicians and an “exploration of the relationship between the two disciplines.” Festival attendance will be limited this year. Sign up for a free ticket at wordofsouthfestival.com in advance to claim your spot.

TALLAHASSEE RESTAURANT WEEK 2021

April 19-25

Looking for an opportunity to engage your tastebuds and support local restaurants? Tallahassee Restaurant Week is a “week-long culinary celebration of Tallahassee's restaurant scene, with participating eateries creating Prix Fixe menus at a special price.”

GOODWOOD MUSEUM VIRTUAL AND ONSITE KISS YOGA (KEEP IT SLOW AND SIMPLE)

Weekly on Thursdays, 10:00am-11:00am| On Demand

Yoga instructor, Donni Sorrell, keeps it slow and simple (KISS) in this 50-minute mat-based yoga class. Onsite class is limited to 10 participants to ensure social distance for $10, please contact donnisorrell@gmail.com if interested in attending onsite. goodwoodmuseum.org/goodwood-events/ for more information.

YOUNG (ADULT) AT HEART BOOK CLUB WITH THE LEON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

April 19 6:30pm-7:30pm Virtual

Are you an avid lover of young adult fiction and looking for a virtual community to share your literary passion? Join the Virtual Young (Adult) At Heart Book Club to discuss your favorite Young Adult novels. Register for the Zoom Event bit.ly/youngadultatheartbookclub

TALLAHASSEE MUSEUM MUSEUM MIXOLOGY: FATHER JAMES PAGE

May 20

In honor of Emancipation Day in Florida, virtually join the Tallahassee Museum's discussion with Dr. Larry Rivers on his recently published biography – Father James Page. It explores the story of Rev. James Page, who “rose from slavery in the nineteenth century to become a religious and political leader among African Americans as well as an international spokesperson for the cause of racial equality.” Retrieve your free ticket and learn more at tallahasseemuseum.org/ events/museum-mixology-father-james-page/

STELLA YORK TRUNK SHOW

April 30 10:00am May 1 6:00pm 6267 Old Water Oak Road

Searching for a gown? Attend the Stella York

Trunk Show where you will be able to “see a range of gowns” no longer carried in store. Stella York aims to give “every bride, no matter their size or their budget, a truly designer experience at a fraction of the cost.”

NORTH FLORIDA HOME SHOW

April 30 - May 2

Donald L. Tucker Civic Center

505 W Pensacola St

Interested in home improvement? The North Florida Home Show is the place for you, as it features “more than 150 local businesses all ready to work with you to make your idea of happily ever after a reality” and clarify your “home building and updating options.”

SCIturdays AT THE CHALLENGER

LEARNING CENTER

Apr 24 | May 22

200 S. Duval Street

Saturday, Apr 24 - Environment in Action: Go green! Learn how to become a citizen scientist, take a lesson in composting with earthworms and more.

Saturday, May 22 - Colorful Coding: Get creative! Create abstract art with Sphero robots, learn how Javascript programming language can be used to create robotic art and more.

TALLAHASSEE DOWNTOWN MARKET PLACE

Saturdays, 9:00am - 2:00pm 117 East Park Avenue

Small businesses need our support more than ever. March 29 is our day to show our love for these tiny-but-mighty businesses. It is our support that keeps these vital shops alive. Shop local and shop small this March!

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WE Elevate

By Paula DeBoles-Johnson

A CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN, PRINCIPAL APRIL KNIGHT

To say that the past year has been tough, is clearly an understatement. We heard constantly about how children, parents and teachers have had to adapt to the numerous changes that the pandemic caused. But what about the administrators and principals? They too had to quickly adapt to the new way of educating our children. They were steadfast in their roles, reassuring parents, supporting school staff, consoling children, and finding creative solutions to the many challenges our district faced, while also ensuring that students continued to learn and had the critical support they needed. I had the opportunity to interview the phenomenal principal of John G. Riley elementary school, April Knight. She is a strategic thinker, fiercely supportive of her staff and students and is committed to ensuring that our greatest treasures, our children, never stop learning.

Why did you decide on a career in education?

School has always been a safe and fun place for me, and I have always had a love of education. Countless teachers and administrators invested in my success, so it encouraged me to offer the same opportunity to future generations.

What is your greatest accomplishment?

As a naive of Leon County, I am most proud of answering the call of service to my community. I have over eighteen years of comprehensive professional work experience in the field of public education and working with multiple generations of Leon County students.

I’m sure the first priority for principals during the crisis was ensuring that their students, staff, families were okay before getting to academics. What were your second and third priorities and how did you handle these priorities?

T his year a daily priority has been to maintain mental health services for

students and staff. We also try to frequently celebrate and recognize our staff and students. Another priority has been the daily need for meals and addressing digital divide with technology. A fourth priority has been fostering and maintaining strong relationships with community partners that support teaching and learning.

What have you learned from this crisis of the pandemic?

I’ve always known that mental flexibility is paramount, and you must be able to frequently make adjustments to meet the needs of your learning community.

What has been the biggest challenge and why?

Navigating and reorienting so many changes in an unfamiliar situation has been challenging. The magnitude of this pandemic is not anything I would have ever imagined.

What are you most looking forward to? I am looking forward to having all

April Knight

our Riley Bears back on campus and our families being comfortable with sending their students back to school. Everything in life is a teachable moment, so I hope we are learning from this experience to be more conscious of your neighbor and how you can contribute to their needs. Also, trying to be the best version of yourself every single day.

Share a little bit about the new ways in which you engaged with families during the pandemic?

I am very proud of our parent engagement. We have been able to interact with our parents virtually and hosting drive thru events to support our kids and families.

What inequities have been brought to the forefront because of this crisis?

T he inequity of the digital divide with technology.

Lisa Davis

It’s easy to look at Lisa Davis and see the beauty that’s on the outside. She has, after all, built an empire on image. It would also be easy to stop there and assume she’s just another pretty face, but there is so much more to her and her story.

Davis moved to Tallahassee just as she was starting high school, when her father relocated to take a position as a pastor in a local church. The transition was tough, so she opted to finish her studies through homeschooling and completed her diploma at just sixteen years old. She started college at Tallahassee Community College and graduated from Florida State University before most of us are even old enough to drive, which came with a new set of challenges. “Finances were such a big issue and I had to work full time. I was always struggling to put gas in the tank. I didn’t live on campus, so I was always trying to find a parking spot to make it to class. It wasn’t easy. I envied the girls who had college paid for, who got to live on campus, who had the friends and the fun.”

Lisa graduated college at just twenty years old. It was clear that she had a strong work ethic and was incredibly self-motivated. She majored in political science and history, with the goal of going to law school to study constitutional law. But soon another goal became a priority, and she was married at the age of twenty-one and had her first daughter at the age of twenty-four. Family values were at the core of Lisa’s upbringing, and she dove into her new role as a young mother, having two more children over the next five years. “You’re hanging around people you are influenced by and at that point in my life, everyone I was around stayed home with their children. Even though the decision to stay home came with challenges, I loved being able to be with my kids and still do because of the flexibility of my work.”

As the financial challenges of having a large family at such a young age began to grow, she knew she needed to find a way to earn some extra money but was having a hard time finding anything that allowed her the flexibility she needed. That’s when she discovered MultiLevel Marketing, commonly referred to as MLM. It’s a sales concept that has been replicated across many products with the same core strategy- combine commissions on the products you sell while also earning a percentage on sales generated from a network of consultants you build on your “team.”

For many, this term has a tendency to bring up a collective groan among us all. We’ve all had that one distant friend from high school pop up out of nowhere after ten years with a direct message about an “exciting business opportunity” they have for us. Or have been given the hard sales pitch on a product that in no way fits our lifestyle or budget. Lisa was totally aware of the stigma. “I had all the same preconceived notions everybody has going into it. There were a lot of people who looked down on the industry and thought it wasn’t a real job,

including some of my family. I had to overcome what other people thought, along with what my notions were about what ‘that typical MLM girl’ looked like.”

As a self-proclaimed “simple girl” who didn’t even wear makeup at the time, selling a line of skincare and makeup products was an unlikely fit. She rationalized that if the worst thing that could happen would be that she herself could look better and feel better, there was nothing to lose, so she dove in. She worked the outlines and checklists the company provided to build her team of consultants. She developed training systems and put in long hours to build her business between her children’s nap times and trips to the park and all of her other household obligations.

“I really built it in a way that people felt comfortable and felt served. I thought, ‘How can I make them have more time, save them money, make them feel pretty?’ It’s never really sales for me, it’s more let’s teach them how to look and feel better, let’s give value, let’s give people ideas, let’s inspire them to do something more.”

Her strategy paid off quickly, and soon Lisa went from earning a few extra hundred dollars a month to help with groceries to earning the equivalent of a full-time salary with major perks like free vacations, jewelry, and even a new car. It’s a level of achievement that most don’t reach in this type of business. And though the financial rewards were certainly a draw, Lisa felt a deeper connection to her work. “There’s a sense of fulfillment because you’re helping people. Not just my clients, but the people I was able to develop on my team. I promoted 22 directors in that company. I saw them go on the trips and win the cars and be guest speakers at the conferences, and it was so fulfilling to see them shine and reach for their fullest potential.”

After ten years with the same company, Lisa Davis was a superstar. She had worked tirelessly to not only build a network of clients and sales consultants, but nurtured those relationships and treasured the connections she was making with these women. Through her own hustle and grit, she had achieved what many entrepreneurs only dream of.

But soon it was clear that things weren’t as they seemed within the corporate structure. There were frequent leadership changes. Her sales were declining, and at the worst possible time in her personal life. Her marriage had recently ended and she was now raising her four children alone on a dwindling income. Her mother, who had a years-long battle with cancer, moved in with her. Her father passed away suddenly and tragically.

It was at this ultimate point of personal turmoil that she very unexpectedly and very reluctantly met her now-husband, Stafford. It was a chance meeting at the pool and she refused

to even acknowledge him. “He was so handsome, I assumed him a ladies man, so I tried hard to avoid him," she laughs. “But he tracked me down a week later and after that I was totally smitten”. Early in their relationship they received the wonderful surprise of their lives- Lisa was pregnant. “Now I look divorce back and think God had a plan. He wasn’t used to being around children, I was previously married and divorced and already had four children, he had was also divorced. Basically all those stressful things they say you shouldn’t bring into a relationship, but it didn’t matter because it was love at first sight.”

Soon after the birth of their son, the company Lisa had invested twelve years of her life into to build her beauty empire ultimately failed and

“ I have to speak my truth and not “protect” people at the cost of their own growth.”

dissolved. She lost her entire income and found it difficult to ask her very new husband or anyone else for help with the finances. “When you’re raised with little, it’s up to you or it’s simply not going to happen. I wouldn’t ask for help. I sold things- the jewelry, TVs, clothing I had earned from that company, whatever it took. I was angry. It wasn’t like getting let go from a job where I had a skill I could just transfer to another job. To think that you spend years building your team of consultants and it’s compounding. Thank goodness I had already developed Image by Lisa and was doing bridal makeup. I think people thought my business was just a side hustle, they had no clue that it was 3/4 of my income. I had to start completely from scratch.”

She decided to step back and focus on her Image by Lisa brand before jumping back into selling for a new company. “What happens with a lot of girls in an multi-level marketing is you find one and you just say ‘oh, it’s the best’. But as a licensed aesthetician I thought to myself, well is it really though? I think I owe it to myself and my clients to find out.”

She joined twelve different types of these companies to find which one truly was the best - the best products, the best compensation structures, the best culture. She spent the next two years making spreadsheets, talking to her former sales consultant and her clients, all of whom had to buy-in to whatever decision she

made next for it to pay off. In the end, there was only one company that brought together her passion for beauty, nutrition, and an overall healthy lifestyle - Arbonne. That combination coupled with the same determination and grit that had always carried her through brought near instant success, as she earned her first Mercedes and a Regional Vice President status in an unprecedented six months with the company.

And even in the midst of a year-long global pandemic, Lisa still has eyes on the future.

“There’s always room to grow. You have to have a growth mentality in any business. What can I learn out of this singular situation? What can we do to grow from it and how can we do a better job so people feel taken care of?” And at the crux of it, that is what Lisa Davis does best, she takes care of the people around her. Whether it’s her family, the clients she works with, or her team of sales consultants, she gives everyone and everything 100% and refuses to settle for less. In an industry that is so easily consumed with what’s on the surface, Lisa finds true service in bringing out the beauty in the people around her, on both the inside and out.

"I am grateful that God is the God of second chances. Throughout the bible, we see followers of Christ who made mistakes or suffered great loss. Because of God's abounding love and grace, He gave them additional chances. I feel like that's been my life. A chance at a new relationship, an opportunity to mother again at an older age, another shot at success in business. Those additional chances have given me a new perspective and gratitude towards God, and a greater desire to give back to the causes I support."

To connect with Lisa for makeup, image, fitness tips or more, follow her on Instagram @ imagebylisa.

LISA’S THOUGHTS ON…

Fitness as an outlet:

It was one of my systems to stay sane. When I was a young mom and I was tired and there was no time to myself, the gym was my haven. I would put them in childcare, do a workout, get a shower and do my hair and I was all by myself. It was religious.

Mitigating “Mom Guilt:”

When you’re young, everything is Mom GuiltI’m not doing it as well, my kid doesn’t have on the perfect dress, or the bow in their hair. And finally I just had to say, “They’re living, they’re breathing, they’re fed” and you get over the fact that they don’t have to look a certain way. You get over that it’s not going to be perfect.

I think another one is sending your kids to daycare. Instead of it being a trigger for Mom Guilt, I know my son is learning that mommy is working and providing for our family. He has a role model and understands that sometimes we need to make sacrifices but that it’s worth it in the end.

The things outside of work that bring her joy:

Cooking for my family. One of my biggest roles for my family is making sure that they have a lot of healthy options to eat at home and that we always eat together. It’s the way I serve them but it’s also the way we build community together.

Her word for 2021: Honesty, and living a life of candor. I have a tendency to hide the truth from people because I want to spare their feelings. I’m getting to a place in my life where I need to say what needs to be said and not worry so much about what their response is going to be. Their response is what they’re responsible for, I have to speak my truth and not “protect” people at the cost of their own growth.

And to accompany that, to not constantly apologize. We don’t have to apologize for being successful, we don’t have to apologize for making really good money, and the systems that we put into place to guard ourselves during that time are ok.

How she manages to make it all happen:

I buy back my time when I can. When I was broke, I had a lot of time but I didn’t have the money. Now that has shifted where I have the money, but I don’t have a lot of time. I think ‘What makes it rain in my world- what are the things that make me the most money?’ and I only work in those areas and I leave as much as possible with help I can find from otherswebsite, social media, home care- anything that I can outsource for less than I make.

I also try to put everything into a system. I have a lot of apps for organization. If somebody asks me something that they could have found some other way, be it my team or a client, I ask “What system can I put in place so that question won’t be asked again? How can I better organize my website, my training, my social media, etc.”

When people see someone on Instagram that seems to have it all together, they really have a great system and a lot of great support.

The power of social media and trends in the era of COVID: Things have definitely shifted, but the digital marketplace is still open. Timing in trends is always important, but now more than ever with our current climate. It’s important to shift quickly. Whatever is trending you *have* to go there and that’s what I teach my team. You can’t resist it and think “oh that’s just for the new people”. I

don’t care if you’re 65 years old, you have to get on TikTok! Video is so powerful now because even though we can’t meet in person, people feel like they already know you because they can hear your tone, see how you articulate. Going “Live” and teaching people a concept or teaching them what I do, even if they can’t totally duplicate it, is what people connect to.

And sometimes there’s pushback, people say, “well what if social media goes away” and I say “it’s not though. But if it does, we’ll shift again to whatever the new thing is”. You have to learn to thrive in this space or your business will die. And if you’re refusing to go into that space, you just have to own it and acknowledge that you’re refusing to use a free resource that can grow your business.

The women who inspire her: I’m inspired by women who hustle.

Anybody who is balancing a lot and has bigger, higher aspirations and wants to see growth. Women simply have more to manage. If you look at the statistics, women are running more of the household, managing more of the chores, more of the mental load. Any woman who can get it done and with that growth mindset to bring more to their community on a larger scale, I really look up to. Kudos to the women who are doing it all!

(Editor’s Note: Kudos to YOU Lisa Davis, you are living that inspiration to the rest of us every single day)

at Sunflower Farms

By Regina Lynch-Hudson

While April showers are said to produce May flowers, the showiest sprout to command the landscape commonly blooms during summer to autumn. A spectacular and vibrant plant, the heliotropic sunflower is thought to have received the fitting moniker because of its grandiose blossom that gravitates to face the sun. Heliotropism denotes species that appear to trail the movement of the sun as it sashays across the sky from East to West.

Varied types of sunflowers flaunt brilliant yellow, orange, red and uniquely-hued blooms. Yet it’s the stunning yellow petals that reign as a traditional favorite.

I’ve never been a common-red-rose girl. Nothing compares to receiving a giant bouquet of golden sunflowers to lift moods and induce a spirit of hope. The mystical flower possesses an intrinsically spiritual essence. Even in the presence of looming darkness, when there’s barely little light, the faith-filled sunflower will seek out a ray of sunshine and lift its heads to the heavens to bask in the radiance of the sun. So powerful is the soul of the sunflower that a singular flower possesses inspiration that’s equal to receiving a dozen ordinary blossoms.

And sometimes mere imagery of a sunflower uplifts.

Imagine my surprise, when on my peak-of-summer birthday in 2019, I re-

ceived an inspirational sunflower-clad journal from friend and noted biographer, the late Linda Kenney Miller, author of award-winning book “Beacon On the Hill” the story of her pioneering grandfather, personal physician to Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver. The sunflower journal was sent as a reminder to journey into my backyard sanctuary to write and relax. Linda, once a part of my small and strategically vetted and sacred tribe, understood the superpower of the sunflower. Her accompanying note, “ for someone who knows who she is, loves the journey and reminds us to believe in who we are,” added sunshine to an overcast day.

If you have a kinswoman or Sistah-friend who exudes grit and glory and has succeeded against all odds or triumphed through a particularly challenging era, sending a sunflower is a sublime gesture of encouragement. The flower itself, as I was reminded by Linda, “is tall, tough, and possesses ability to thrive wherever she is planted.”

In China, the hardy flower signifies longevity or a long life. Native Americans utilized the plant as a food source. Native Americans also worshiped sunflowers and sprinkled sunflower seeds atop the graves of ancestors. What’s more, sunflowers are nature’s environmental activists – known for absorbing toxic elements from the soil.

"SOMETIMES MERE IMAGERY OF A SUNFLOWER UPLIFTS"

Sunflower farms and fields flourish worldwide, primarily in temperate and subtropic regions. Until which time the universe casts me wandering blossoming sites in exotic lands like Argentina, Tanzania and Turkey, I’ll traipse treasured sunflower spots in the USA.

Anderson’s Sunflower Farm Cummings, Georgia andersonsunflowers.com

The over 24-year old sunflower farm began as a locale for the Anderson family to raise livestock in the 70s. Today, the famed floral farm draws countless visitors who drop by to trek the magical grounds for family outings and magnificent photo opportunities. The breathtaking backdrop is open during peak bloom season, for a couple of weeks in July.

Babbette’s Seeds of Hope

Sunflower Maze

Eau Claire, Wisconsin babbettesseedsofhope.com

Located along the Chippewa River, the family-owned business sells sun-

flower seeds, corn and wildlife blends to sightseers and on-line patrons. Rooted in love, in honor of the farmer’s late wife Babette, product proceeds and donations go to hospitals and cancer research.

Coppal House Farm’s Sunflower Fields

Lee, New Hampshire nhsunflower.com

Tourist nationwide flock to the annual sunflower festival at Coppal House Farms like bumblebees and butterflies flock to fragrant gardens. Pre-purchase tickets online to attend this year’s festival, scheduled for July 31- August 8. The farm boasts over 14-acres of sunflowers that are used to produce unrefined, Non-GMO sunflower oils.

Veteran publicist and luxury lifestyle experience-aholic, Regina Lynch-Hudson, pens MadameXhales, slated towards the vintage woman who enjoys more time to travel, indulges in longer trips, and selects more extravagant travel accommodations. The exacting taste of MadameXhales finds her exploring destinations, cruises, resorts, spas, and extracurricular activities—where like-minded Xhalers have experienced inner-exhilaration! © Contact MadameXhales: thewritepublicist@earthlink.net

W h a t W o m e n W a n t 2 0 2 1 i s e x c i t e d t o b r i n g t h e e v e n t y o u l o v e w i t h

n e w C O V I D - 1 9 s a f e t y p r e c a u t i o n s t o k e e p y o u r s h o p p i n g s a f e !

S p r e a d i n g o u r e v e n t i n T W O b u i l d i n g s a n d l i m i t i n g t h e n u m b e r o f

v e n d o r s a l l o w s s p a c e f o r v e n d o r s a n d g u e s t s t o c o m f o r t a b l y

s o c i a l l y d i s t a n c e ! W i t h t e m p e r a t u r e s c r e e n i n g , h a n d s a n i t i z e r

s t a t i o n s , p h y s i c a l d i s t a n c i n g , a n d m a n d a t o r y m a s k s , y o u ’ l l b e a b l e

t o e n j o y t h e f u n a n d s h o p w or r y - f r e e !

S A T U R D A Y J U N E 1 9 , 2 0 2 1 1 0 A - 3 P

T H E T A L L A H A S S E E A U T O M O B I L E A N D C O L L E C T I B L E S M U S E U M

W A N T T O B E A S P O N S O R O R V E N D O R ?

D O T E A L Y

V P / M M C U M U L U S M E D I A T A L L A H A S S E E

D O T E A L Y @ C U M U L U S C O M ( 8 5 0 ) 2 0 1 - 3 0 0 5

WOMEN TO WATCH MEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS

BUSINESS Women Who Mean JOURNAL BROOKS

BUSINESS Business BALANCE

THERE CAN BE NO WITHOUT BOUNDARIES…

Like many, I have been on the quest to find equilibrium between my personal and professional life. Some call it work-life balance, others call it worklife integration; however, I have discovered that there can be no balance without boundaries. By definition, boundaries are lines that mark the limit. They protect our mental and emotional health and prevent us from burnout in a world where things are everchanging.

Boundaries are often associated with being selfish and defensive. However, boundaries set the basic guidelines of how we want to be treated, and most importantly how we treat ourselves. Setting clear boundaries allows us to become more self-aware and acknowledge our emotional capacity.

As I advanced in my career, setting boundaries became much more difficult. My desire for achievement was in direct conflict with

By Monique Akanbi

my ability to prioritize my work and my personal wellness. I started to spread myself thin – and truthfully, my relationships with my family and friends suffered as a result. My inability to know and communicate my limits impacted my emotional stability and I am certain I am not alone in this.

The current pandemic has forced us to not only integrate our personal and professional lives, but it has also required us to identify what matters most. Between working from home and home-schooling children, boundaries are important now more than ever. We set boundaries by being self-aware, establishing non-negotiables, giving ourselves permission to rest, seeking support, and most importantly, making self-care a priority. If setting boundaries is a challenge for you, start by incorporating small changes in your daily routine. You are worth it!

Women Who Mean

BUSINESS

JOURNAL

think they are. You are one hell of a woman. You won’t fail, but you do have to start. Get after it.

What core principles did you follow to arrive where you are today?

Ethics, honesty, reliability and mainly, open-mindedness.

What beliefs about success do you hold?

That if you can conceive it, you can be it. Start with where you want to be and reverse engineer how to get there. The path will present itself if you keep your eyes and ears open.

Where do those beliefs originate?

Experience. I tried living my life the way I was expected to and found it unfulfilling. I didn’t like the roles available to women so I made my own. That comes from an abiding belief in my competency. I have always been able to do anything I’ve tried so there is really nothing to it, but to do it.

Many women have a hard time communicating their worth so they compromise. What are your thoughts? Women are not accustomed to having the wind at their back. They’re used to resistance when they get out of their lanes and make people uncomfortable. So they expect it. You will receive in this world what you expect from it. I suggest they visualize acceptance and celebration of their unique and intrinsic value and that is what they will receive.

What advice would you give the younger Dana Brooks?

You can do it – whatever it is – it is available to you. All of these people around you who appear to be more accomplished, educated, interesting, really aren’t. You just

Oprah likes to share the things that she knows for sure.... what are those things for you?

Your future is not in your past. Other people’s opinion of you is none of your business. Learn from your past, then pack your stuff and get the hell out of there.

Women’s empowerment is very important to you. How do women become empowered?

Women become empowered by first recognizing the power they already have that they’re giving away. I ask women to pay attention to what they show deference to. Does it serve you or is it simply expected? Many women show deference to men for no other reason than their gender, an unearned attribute. That’s not rational. I ask women to be deliberate and intentional with how they spend their time and what they make space for in their lives. If it doesn’t serve them, if it doesn’t help them grow stronger, if it doesn’t make them feel like they completely own their space and that their voices are heard, it’s not good enough for them. I want them to raise their standards for themselves and others.

Women share that they would like more women to support one another and not tear each other down. Your advice? You’ve got to live that, though. Even I, a known feminist, who just wrote a book on the subject, have been disappointed by women close to me violating basic girl code. It’s even more disheartening when I see how little they actually get for such a tremendous breach. Men still enjoy most of the privilege, but mainly because women give it to them. We need to stop doing that, stop letting insecure men pit us against each other. We need to walk our talk, especially when it’s hard. Because that’s when it matters.

Over 50% of all marriages end in divorce. What are the most common issues that you’ve seen?

The most common problem I see is women who are financially illiterate who are wholly unprepared to care for themselves and their children, without their husbands’ income and guidance. Another common issue is women feeling damaged and ruined after divorce. Like they had their one shot and happiness is not available to them now. Or women believing they have no value without being attached to a husband. Too many women derive their identify from their spousal role. You are so much more than support staff!!

Do you think most women know their legal rights regarding employment or divorce?

No. Not at all. I’ve heard everything from, “women already have all the rights they need,” (comically erroneous) to, “in the good ole boy network, women have no rights.” The truth is somewhere in between. You have more rights than you realize, but you have to be willing to assert them to receive a benefit. Women suffer from toxic politeness – an aversion to doing anything to make anyone else uncomfortable. You’re never going to get what you deserve if don’t insist on it. And this is knowable. Call an attorney who cares and find out what your rights are. Don’t lose important rights and assets based on wrong assumptions or fear of the unknown.

PERSONAL DELIVERIES NOW AVAILABLE

& STYLISH FLORAL DESIGNS

P: 850.228.0354

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How did you build the practice because you have a great team?

Fasig Brooks evolved from Jimmy Fasig and me deciding we wanted to build a better law firm. We took everything we didn’t like about the law firms we’d experienced in the past and replaced it with what fit our mission and core values – people who embrace the truth, love our clients, and honor justice. Our firm is based on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and a desire to serve.

What inspired you to write a book?

I wrote Functional Feminism: An Apolitical Guide to Women’s EmPowerment to raise women’s collective gender self-esteem. I was inspired by hearing from women who approached me after my speaking engagements telling me that I should do a Ted Talk or incorporate my stories into a book. Then COVID happened and I had a lot of extra time on my hands. Not surprisingly, as a product of COVID, I learned that the number of women in the workplace is at the lowest level in 30 years. I saw where women were still getting in their own way. I felt like I could help with these problems by sharing my thoughts and experiences. I knew now was the time. Women need my book.

What are secrets to success?

The real secret to success is in defining it. YOU get to define what success looks like in your life. It’s not what your parents think of your choices. It’s not what your employer thinks of your contributions or what your neighbor thinks about your new car. Success is being free of the external voices that tell you you’re not enough. Success is living your best, fullest life, on your own terms.

Any advice for young women thinking about law school?

Know why you’re doing this – is it for your parents, for status or money, or because you’d rather stay in school than enter the job market? Consider the time and financial investment and how long you’ll have to work to make law school a good financial decision. Mainly, don’t accept conventional wisdom, especially from law school professors far removed from the real world, about what kind of a career you should have, how you should dress or behave, how to advance in your career – none of that. That is all changing so rapidly, the advice is obsolete before it’s uttered. Women are making their own way in the world as lawyers and individuals. No one knows better than you, what is best for you.

Trust yourself.

omen

ON THE W

DarcyLi Salinas

Fielder Companies has announced DarcyLi Salinas as partner. Starting at Fielder in 2015, DarcyLi has proved her incredible high-tech work ethic, sharing her contagious positive outlook and inspiring integrity with everyone she encounters.

DarcyLi started her motherhood journey young and used her ambition, strength, and leadership to push herself to the immense success that she is today.

Bringing many positive qualities to Fielder, including her passion for technology that

drove her to implement production software within the company, DarcyLi has steered the company to build and strengthen in numerous ways over the last six years.

Now, as an owner, DarcyLi continues to encourage employees and drive the company toward accomplishing goals with even more passion. As a mother of two, grandmother of three, and now owner of Fielder, DarcyLi’s success is proof of her amazing resilience. She is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of powerful women in business.

MOVE

MAJOR TRACY CLARK

Major Tracy Clark was born and raised in Gadsden County. She has been in law enforcement as an officer for 23 years and as a dispatcher for 3 years. She felt the need to make her community a safer place for our children. She participates in the Big Brother/Big Sister program and the children’s ministry at her church. In her free time, she loves to read, cook, and spend time with her family.

Sergeant Scherri Bryant is from Gainesville, FL. She pursued a future in law enforcement, because she wanted to help deter criminal activities in local communities. In 2007, she began her career at the Tallahassee Police Department. She enjoys coaching, teaching, running, and traveling. Sgt. Bryant believes she makes a difference by continuously engaging the community, building relationships, and educating citizens and youth on how to prevent crime and stay safe.

LIEUTENANT DANIELLE DAVIS

Lieutenant Danielle Davis came to Tallahassee in 1992 from Queens, New York to attend FAMU. Her dreams of being a lawyer faded after a ride-a-long with a police officer. After graduation, she attended the Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy. In her 22 years in law enforcement, she has held numerous positions. Educating Tallahassee’s youth has been her primary focus and, in 2002, she started the DEFY Program. She has volunteered at public libraries reading to youth and promoting literacy. She is a dedicated mother of three children.

Sergeant Susan Newhouse Burton is a Christian, single mother to two teenagers, sister, friend, and business owner of Tarmac Basketball. Born in Massachusetts, she grew up in Melbourne Beach and came to Tallahassee to receive her B.S from FSU. Susan began her career with TPD in 1998 as she felt a calling to help people and be active in the community. With TPD educational assistance, she obtained her MBA at 46. Her children and friends proclaim, “She is resilient and sacrifices often for her family and community.

Sergeant Ginny M. Osborn was born in Chattahoochee, FL. She began her employment with the Tallahassee Police Department in July 2007. She chose law enforcement as a career, because there were so many different opportunities to learn new things and have a positive impact on the way she could handle situations. She loves to make a difference by having positive interactions with others in any situation. Coming from a small town, she saw early on how treating others as she wanted to be treated made things so much better for everyone involved.

Lieutenant Maria Mercurio was born in Pembroke Pines and is a graduate of FSU. After spending two years with FSUPD, Maria began her 23-year career with the Tallahassee Police Department. She is a Lieutenant over the Internal External Affairs Bureau. She has a strong passion for personal safety education and began TPD's Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) women’s self-defense program. Maria was a Board Member for the Lincoln Center Foundation, mentor with Leon County schools, and current mentor with the “Bigs in Blue” program.

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

WHO ARE THE TWM MEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS? TWM is excited and proud to feature the third annual issue of Men Who Mean Business (MWMB) profiles. These men serve in business and the community supporting the mission of women in Tallahassee. Research reveals that when men are dedicated to including women in leadership and business and advocating for gender equity and equality in the workplace, organizations experience statistically significant progress. The TWM “Men Who Mean Business” exemplify outstanding support of women through their medical and law practices, community services, non-profit agencies, philanthropic contributions, leadership, volunteerism, advocacy, employment practices and commitment. TWM Men Who Mean Business demonstrate core values that support the best interest, mission and vision of Tallahassee women. TALLAHASSEE WOMAN MAGAZINE MWMB!

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

JIMMY FASIG

As the only male shareholder at Fasig Brooks Law Offices, Jimmy Fasig is proud to say he’s a member of a woman-owned business. But he didn’t set out to create and grow a law firm that empowered women. His goal was to serve as many injured people as possible by recruiting and retaining the best legal talent.

Then he became a father. Instead of seeing the world through only his eyes, he began thinking about the kind of world he wanted for his three little girls. When asked what motivated his desire to support the women in his law firm, Jimmy replied, “I have three daughters and I want them to grow up in a world where they see successful women all around them.”

Jimmy’s girls need look no further than their daddy’s own law firm. Fasig Brooks has 75% women shareholders and 58% women partners, virtually unheard of in personal injury law firms. His partner, Dana Brooks, chuckles when she recalls Jimmy coming into her office one afternoon anxious to share the tremendous results their female lawyers were getting for their clients. She remembers he exclaimed, “I gotta tell ya, D, I don’t know why we’d ever hire anyone other than women lawyers.”

Jimmy gained his respect and appreciation for strong women by watching his mother, then his wife, Janette, manage their multiple responsibilities. That made him sensitive to the challenges faced by the women at Fasig Brooks. “Jimmy did not blink an eye when I asked for my maternity leave to be extended to five months. He made sure that I had the resources and flexibility necessary to truly succeed as an attorney with two small children.” Kimmie Hogan, Shareholder, Fasig Brooks.

As Jimmy Fasig continues to support, mentor, and empower women all around him, there is no doubt his three daughters will grow up in exactly the world he envisions for them.

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

MARCUS SUTTON, MS

Marcus Sutton was born and raised in Marianna, FL. He graduated from Concordia College-Alabama with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. He received his master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of West Florida. Tallahassee has become a second home for he and his wife Celeste, and he looks forward to serving the citizens of Tallahassee as an Agent with New York Life.

SHERWOOD L. BROWN, MBA, CFP

Sherwood L. Brown, MBA, CFP® is a Fort Lauderdale native who has worked in the Financial Services industry since graduating from FAMU in 1989. He has helped thousands of families and small businesses reach their financial goals and continues to assist clients throughout the US as a Registered Representative with NYLIFE Securities, LLC (Member FINRA/SPIC). He and his wife Rebecca have four children.

DAVID L. JOHNSON, MBA

David L. Johnson, MBA, is a combat veteran and financial services professional with over 25 years of experience. He has degrees from Florida A&M University, University of West Florida, and the University of Florida, School of Banking. David

began his journey with New York Life in 2018 and was promoted to Partner in February 2021. He and his wife Paula have two adult daughters.

We are seeking talented people to join our Central Georgia Office (Tallahassee, FL Satellite Office) team of professionals. Our nationwide team consists of individuals who are leaders in insurance, financial, estate, personal and business planning. If you are interested in becoming a financial services professional, please contact me at: 850-339-3729.

New York Life is an equal opportunity employer M/F/Veteran/Disability/Gender Identity/Sexual Orientation.

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

WILLIAM T. BALDOCK, JR.

"Our

team is comprised of some of the most remarkable, hardest-working women I have known; they inspire me immensely."

It is an honor for me to salute “Women Who Mean Business” in our community. Serving in a profession where there are now more females than males enrolled as first-year dental students in the United States—51% versus 49%, respectively - and 60% of young practicing dentists under the age of 44 are women, I am excited about the many contributions and accomplishments being made by these women in dentistry. As I embark on my periodontal career in Tallahassee, I look forward to working with these trailblazing women and others who are dedicated to their careers, their families and our community.

It is my greatest privilege to return to my hometown to continue the legacy of providing our community with the highest possible level of periodontal and implant care established by my father, Dr. William T. Baldock, more than 30 years ago. I am proud of our corporate culture that fosters empowering women professionally and personally by means of strong professional development opportunities, on-the-job leadership training, and flexible work schedules. Our team is comprised of some of the most remarkable, hardest-working women I have known; they inspire me immensely.

At Capital Periodontal, each member of our talented team is exceptionally skilled and dedicated to providing the ultimate standard of care and compassion in a gentle and patient-focused environment. Our mission is to assist patients in understanding their periodontal and implant needs, and to allow them to make informed decisions

regarding their oral health, while building meaningful relationships with them. We believe that helping patients maintain optimal oral health through excellent periodontology will lead to an enhanced quality of life.

Periodontics is a rapidly changing and expanding profession. This makes it a continuously challenging and exciting career path since there is always something new to learn. Capital Periodontal will continue to celebrate the amazing women within our industry, our practice, and our community whose contributions and achievements are certain to positively shape the future and empower more women to seek leadership roles.

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

SAM OSBORNE

“I’m proud to be a part of the Tallahassee community and I’ve been fortunate enough to use my businesses so that others can find their own success, and at the same time intwine ourself with the needs of those that live here” -Sam

As a longtime Tallahassee native, Sam Osborne has constantly been a true Tallahassee local. Aside from the four years he spent in the US Air Force, Sam has lived in Tallahassee his entire life and constantly been on the trail to succeed and even more importantly helping others to succeed, specifically women. After graduating from the Business school at FSU, Sam opened up his very first restaurant and it was his sister who he hired to be the first manager. Over the years Sam has grown his businesses from here to Orlando. Today, Sam owns 3 different restaurant concepts in Tallahassee (Tropical Smoothie Café, Island Wing Company, and the new Rock n Roll Sushi) and 2 out of 3 of those restaurants are ran by women. I firmly believe that women can lead just as well

as men. “I have a 15 year old daughter who I want to see that and believe in herself as well”.

Sam has always been involved with community charitable events. Some of his efforts have been the presenting sponsor for the American Heart Association’s heart walk, and a major fundraiser for Kidz1stFund. Along with those he raised money and items needed for people who lost their homes in Apalachicola in the fires of 2018 and those who lost everything later that same year from Hurricane Michael. Sam has also worked a countless number of times with local schools and non profits to raise money at his restaurants.

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

JASON NAUMANN

I am very grateful for my deep Florida roots. I was born in Fort Myers Florida, but spent most of my childhood in Tampa, raised by my single mother and older sister. By my mother's example, I learned not only work ethic and respect, but also how to be fully dedicated to everything I set my mind to. At times I'm sure my older sister felt like a mother as well, essentially overseeing my every move while my mom worked 10-12 hour days. Things were not always easy but that instilled in us an uncompromising drive to work hard, be honest and take pride in the accomplishments that we gained through our hard work and resolve.

I brought these tried and true philosophies with me when I moved to Tallahassee to attend Florida State University in 1993. My college experience looked a bit different than most - I ended up selling real estate full-time the summer between my sophomore and junior year. I quickly realized that it was not always natural for homeowners to find immediate confidence in someone as young as I - especially when it came to their largest asset. But through the tenacity that was instilled in me from a very young age I was absolutely determined to earn their trust and be successful.

I knew shortly after I arrived in Tallahassee that this is where I wanted to live and raise my family. I was not going to let anything derail those aspirations. After a couple years of overcoming obstacles, my business finally gained traction and I was able to see the success that accompanies such persistence. The summer after my senior year I was able to begin my first development project, propelling my real estate goals to a new level.

I count my family as my most valuable blessing. I met my wonderful wife at Florida State University and we have four incredible children.

I enjoy creating unique communities and delivering a top of the line product that our customers can be proud to call home, but without my incredible staff and sales team I would not be able to accomplish any of what I have so far. I am grateful for the creative women who truly run our business and I am excited to see what the next few decades bring!

"As both an agent and employee of Mr. Naumann's for over 13 years, I've been blessed to work in an atmosphere that has cultivated a successful career while starting a family and learning what it looks like to balance working mom life. A workplace rooted in putting faith and family first has been an incredible and rare opportunity in such a fast paced industry!” - Katie Power

BUSINESS MENWho Mean

MICKEY S. MOORE

It’s an honor to have an opportunity to contribute in some way to TWM’s commitment to empowering women and to continue collaborating in their Women Who Mean Business efforts. In looking back at my life and career, I’ve had the opportunity to learn many lessons and be a part of many meaningful achievements. The majority of these lessons and accomplishments were achieved in working elbow-to-elbow with smart, dedicated women.

From my early life raised by a single-mother and her four older sisters, to my career in the finance and nonprofit industries, as a volunteer with civic organizations, to my personal life with my wife and family; I can’t help but appreciate and acknowledge the special qualities women bring to the table and the importance of ensuring their input at every level. From gender and emotional intelligence to compassion and empathy, important women in my life led by example, challenged me while caring about me, educated me, developed and influenced many of my professional and personal character traits, and impacted so many lanes of my work and life, and still do today.

These women pushed me to grow and change. If we have worked together on any project you would likely be of the opinion that I push my team hard. I readily admit that I push everyone, where I see potential. Through Moore Business Strategies I push my clients and their teams, some of whom I can tell have never truly “reached” and been held accountable before. I know that the process of attaining worthwhile growth and improvement should be at least a little bit difficult. But what I truly enjoy is seeing just how much change we can create with those who are only willing to stick it out through the tough times. I am fully committed to the fact that women deserve no less opportunity for difficult but worthwhile achievement, and men cannot be afraid to support that endeavor.

MOORE

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

There’s Moore to running your Business!

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank a few of the long list of women who have made me who I am today:

• My wife, for pushing back. My mother, for surviving.

The Kane sisters who taught me what running SOS Industries could look like.

Ms. Patty from Sunshine State Credit Union who is the reason I have sent flowers to my mother on my birthday for nearly 20 years.

• Wanda from Regions Bank and many family get-togethers since, for fun amongst the pressure for results.

Courtney, Kim, Barby, Theresa, Amber, Akira, Marie, Katy, and Kayleigh — the Southern Scholarship Foundation (#SSFLove) Dream Teams, for showing me what’s possible when care is there!

• And many, many others I don’t have space to list.

I know firsthand that women mean business. I am, and will remain, dedicated to getting business done alongside those willing to work with me, regardless of gender. But I know some of my best teammates have been women. If I can do anything, it’s to make sure the #MooreBoys grow up knowing everything I’ve learned, to be respectful to all, and to be the best teammates possible.

Dr. Kerry McCord has practiced “the best of natural medicine” since 1973. He is a renowned clinician, author and educator, internationally known for his contributions to the practice of applied kinesiology.

What Women Are Saying:

“Although Dr. McCord's approach may be considered unconventional, it is incredibly effective. I initially saw him for chronic issues with my skin, bowels, acid-reflux and pain. After seeing so many doctors for so many years, I was amazed that pain relief was almost immediate! Upon further evaluation, Dr. McCord concluded that food sensitivities were contributing to my chronic bowel, acid-reflux and skin problems. At his direction, I began to change my diet and eliminated the offending foods identified. After more than 20 years of once to twice weekly bowel movements, I now have bowel movements daily, and the acid-reflux that I suffered nightly is gone. Also, much to my delight, I have seen gradual and significant improvement in my skin which has plagued me since I was a teenager. If you are dealing with chronic health issues, go see Dr. McCord, I think you'll be pleased."

Mrs. G. Jefferson, Tallahassee, FL

QDear Dana, I recently had a bad breakup and my ex refused to delete our sex videos. Now he’s sending them to my friends and family and threatening to post them online. I’m angry, scared, and humiliated. What can I do?

Regretful in Tallahassee.

From the desk of Dana Brooks

Dear Regretful,

You’re not alone. This is more common than you think. Although it’s demoralizing, you will survive it and you do have legal options.

In Florida, “sexual cyber-harassment” is a crime, pursuant to Fla. Stat. 784.049. It’s defined as publishing on the web or disseminating through electronic means a sexually explicit image that identifies the depicted person without their consent and contrary to their reasonable expectation that the image would remain private and doing that for no legitimate purpose and with the intent of causing substantial emotional distress to the depicted person. The first offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, and the second or subsequent offenses are third degree felonies. The law is premised on the understanding that a person depicted in a sexual image captured during a consensual act retains a reasonable expectation that the image will remain private despite sharing it with another person, such as an intimate partner. The fact of the breakup doesn’t make those images fair game to share with others.

Victims of this behavior also have civil remedies available, including injunctive relief (a court order demanding the person cease and desist), monetary damages of $5,000 or actual damages incurred from the violation of this statute, and reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs. That last part matters, because it encourages attorneys to take these cases because attorneys’ fees and costs are built into the victim compensation. There may be other civil actions available to victims of sexual cyber-harassment, depending on the facts of the case, so I would encourage you to consult with an attorney to learn more.

Even when civil claims are available, collecting often isn’t. The people capable of this disgusting behavior aren’t usually sitting on a pile of cash or collectible assets. They may have insurance, but often it doesn’t cover intentional bad acts. Frequently the only potential recovery is from a person or company with vicarious liability for the bad actor, like an employer.

One important feature of the Florida law is that it shields from any criminal or civil liability the tech companies through which these images are disseminated. Obviously, without their services and platform, this sleazy practice would not be possible. At least in Florida, though, the government does not impose upon these companies a duty to police the content that is shared through their products. Unfortunately, this is yet another instance where the law needs to catch up to technology.

As always, consult an attorney to obtain a full evaluation of your potential claims.

WOMENto watch Veronika

B

riana Michelle SMITH

Briana Michelle Smith is a professional model and also an artist. She has modeled in Milan, Miami, LA, NYC Fashion Week and Berlin. She has been featured in several magazines and to include FSU's Diverse World Fashion, Tampa Bay Times and the Wall Street Journal. Briana is the former Tallahassee Woman magazine's concept developer and artistic consultant. She is a FSU '20 graduate in Studio Art. In her spare time, Briana enjoys travel, painting, singing, cooking and composing music. Briana believes it is important to follow your dreams.

VERNACHIO

Veronika Vernachio is the weekend morning anchor at ABC27, after launching their new show Sunrise Weekends in October. She attended the University of Florida, where she studied broadcast journalism. Prior to moving to Tallahassee, she worked at ABC27's sister station KGUN9 in Tucson Arizona as a multimedia journalist. Passionate about telling community stories, she launched a new segment at ABC27 called "Totally Tallahassee."

Samantha

CRAWFORD

Samantha Crawford graduated from FSU December 2020 with honors. A 2017 – 2020 Center for Leadership and Social Change Service Scholar recipient, Samantha earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and a Music Minor. She is the founder of “Sweet Strings,” a beginning string program in Cairo, Georgia where she offers free violin lessons to members of underserved communities. Currently employed as a proof reader with the Florida Senate, Samantha has been accepted into the Master’s Program in English at Florida State University.

Patricia J. GRIFFIN

Patricia J. Griffin was recently appointed Vice President at TC Federal Bank to their Tallahassee office as Business Development and Private Banking Officer. Patricia is a graduate of Florida Banking School and Leadership Tallahassee Class 25. She is a servant leader, offering her expertise on many boards in Tallahassee. Patricia is married to Lloyd Griffin for 29 years and together they have a combined family of 5 amazing sons. During her spare time, Patricia enjoys taking long walks with her husband, working in her yard and spending quality time with family and friends.

In November 2020 Pumariega became the first woman president of Miami Dade College. She was recently presented with the 2021 Trailblazer award by the Oasis Center for Women & Girls. The award emphasized the positive impact Pumariega made in the community while serving as the first Hispanic woman Executive Vice President and Provost of Tallahassee Community College. Her innovative approach to higher education administration makes her a notable trailblazer in the community and beyond.

“VITAMIN L”

Have you ever wanted to “Get Lit?” Well, you should... Get lit with natural light!

By Dr. Dawn Ericsson

Natural light, worthy of the pseudonym “Vitamin L,” provides immense benefits to our health. Inherently, we know the sun is essential for life. It provides illumination for our daily activities. We know it provides sustenance for plant life, but do we think about the physiologic benefit to our bodies? It is like any other vitamin or supplement. In an era where we spend 90% of our time indoors, we must actively incorporate adequate daily doses of sunlight and balance our increased exposure to artificial light. Sunlight is on par with other natural resources we often take for granted like air and water. In a Swedish study of 20,000 women, lack of regular sunlight was found to be equally detrimental, if not more, to our lifespan than smoking cigarettes!

A myriad of scientific studies demonstrate the many effects of light on our health:

Wellness

• Vitamin D production - Natural light increases Vitamin D production. It enhances immune system function, decreases inflammation, reduces cancer risk, supports hormone function, and regulates calcium absorption - impacting bone health. Sadly, 75% of U.S. adults are Vitamin D deficient.

• Balanced Mood - Light assists the conversion of tryptophan into serotonin, our “happy hormone,” and tyrosine into dopamine. Conversely, adults sleeping with just small amounts of light exposure have been shown to suffer from depression more.

• Sleep Rhythm - Blue light-emitting screen devices suppress our melatonin production. Millions of adults and children using screen devices in the late evening or night, therefore, have postponed som -

With the invention of artificial light, we have extended our workday beyond sunset. The incandescent bulb was invented in 1879, the fluorescent bulb in 1927, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in 1992. The natural light spectrum ranges from low (infrared and red) to high-frequency energies (ultraviolet/UV). Anthropologists have observed through studies of tribal people, past and present, that the human body has remained insync with the daily ebbs and flow of natural light. Artificial light emission differs from that of natural light. For one, the fluctuation of fluorescent light can cause headaches. Of note, the human eye can see colors from the mid-portion of the light spectrum (380 to 700 nanometers). Wavelengths outside of the visible range also affect bodily function.

nolence, low quality, and inadequate sleep that is abnormal in rhythm. These effects lead to a long list of well-documented health problems and subsequently increased mortality.

• Memory Function - In animals kept in constant dim lighting throughout the day, there is a 30% reduction in memory capacity, particularly in the hippocampus region of the brain. In humans, reduced memory capacity is also apparent in similar light exposure studies. Resulting altered sleep rhythms and poor quality is the likely mechanism for this result.

• Weight Regulation - Fat cells have been shown to have light receptors, which when stimulated, become less inflamed, store less fat, shrink, and diminish in number. Animals exposed only to dim light throughout the day, have been shown to gain 50% more fat than those

exposed to full light, despite having the same diet.

• Glucose Regulation - In another animal study, exposure to dim light at night showed impaired glucose tolerance, which increases the risk of diabetes.

• Blood Pressure - Sunlight is involved in the synthesis of nitric oxide. This substance helps to reduce blood pressure by relaxing our blood vessels.

Infection Control - UV-C destroys various types of bacteria and viruses. Natural light was used to treat tuberculosis before antibiotics were discovered in 1928. Today, we employ UV-C light to destroy coronaviruses and many other germs in public, private and, workspaces.

• Cell Communication - Very low-frequency light (biophotons) emitted by cells have been shown to be a means of communication with other cells.

So “Get Lit” and manage your “Vitamin L” with these tips to optimize light for your health!

• Get natural sunlight in the early hours of the day. Early sunlight has more of the red and infrared and less UV light. It, therefore, poses less risk of tissue damage.

• Aim for exposure to 10-15 mins of natural sunlight before noon and a total of 15-30 mins a day.

• Adjust the backlight settings on electronic devices and wear blueblocking glasses after sunset (even your refrigerator light, stove light, and kid’s nightlight can affect you).

• When tanning, avoid sporadic exposures to intense sunlight, which is more likely

to cause sunburn. Instead, increase sun exposure gradually and if possible, keep a light tan year-round.

• Red Light or Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) can be used to heal superficial tissues and improve hair growth.

Exposure to specific wavelengths, for appropriately-timed sessions, promotes new capillary growth and collagen and fibroblast production. Because UV light is not involved, there is essentially no risk of skin damage.

• Near-infrared light, which is more deeply penetrative, can treat inflammation, hypothyroidism, muscle injuries, and

affect fat metabolism

• Use indoor lighting to mimic outdoor levels of light. Expose yourself to increasing light intensities from morning until midday (1 pm-2 pm). Thereafter, gradually decline light intensity, more sharply after sunset.

• Use adjustable lights or combinations of lights of varying intensities.

• Light intensity is measured in Kelvin. A sample light regimen: 8am: 4,000 Kelvin

• 1pm: 6,000 Kelvin

• 7pm: 3,000 Kelvin

• 9pm: 2,000 Kevin or less

Wildflower Event Design

Weddings, Showers, Elopements, Micro Weddings, Vow Renewals, Surprise Proposals & More...

FAMILY Family

A LETTER TO MY MOTHER Mothe r

Mother’s Day is complicated for me. My mother passed away when I was seven months pregnant with my first child. I became a mother six weeks after I became motherless. Even though it’s been 26 years, the loss still hits me every May. While my husband, Scott, and my children, Alex and Samantha, make me feel special and loved, I always yearn for just one more day with my mom. I want her to know that I’m doing well, and I know it’s because of her. This year I’ve written her a letter. I’m sharing it with you because I know there are many women who experience a mix of joy and loss on Mother’s Day.

Dear Mommy.

I miss you. I need you to know I appreciate you even more today than I did when you passed. I delight in the parts of me that are you, and I am proud to be your daughter. I recognize the courage it took for you to give me a chance at a loving life and I’m incredibly grateful.

I know you lived the first 30 years of your life terrorized and terrified of your father and then mine. And yet, you survived, got away, and worked to create a world that was completely different for my brother, sister, and me. You left him and started over with nothing. When he hid us from you while he fought you for custody, claiming you were unfit, you fought hard to get us back and then spent the next 15 years making sure that couldn’t happen again. I realize now that you wanted us to know gentle love and purposefully married a good man to adopt and raise us so we would know what a loving man was. Because of your decision to marry Dad, I learned laughter is more important than almost anything else. I spent most of my childhood laughing so hard I sometimes thought I would break a rib. And he taught us that hurting people is always wrong. I remember him telling my brother, “I don’t care what those girls did to you – it is never okay to hit a girl.” And for 27 years, I watched Dad love you. I watched him keep you safe. And now, through my adult eyes, I realize I was watching you experience kind and compassionate love for the first time in your life. As a teenager and young adult, I often saw the effects of the trauma you experienced, but I didn’t recognize it. Today I have a good sense of what happens to a woman with those experiences for their first 30 years. The fact that you worked so hard to create a new life for yourself and us wasn’t apparent to me until after you were gone. I often think about you and wonder if I could have survived what you did. And these reflections lead me to know and understand you better and love you even more.

As I raised my children without any of the trauma you experienced, I was free to abundantly love them because you protected me when I was younger. I slowly let go of my feelings of loss at not having you there when Alex and Sam were little and allowed myself to revel in all the good things you gave to them through me. Sam loves to bake, paints like you did, and grew up hearing stories about you and I in the kitchen. Alex is a writer, like you, and I’ve told him how proud I was of you when you got a short story published. They have grown up with your paintings throughout our house and they know the stories behind each one. To this day, they chuckle that I call you Mommy, but anything else would feel like a curse word. A million times while I was raising them, I heard your voice in the words that came out of my mouth.

I understand you more today than I did 26 years ago and am so happy to recognize now that I continue to learn about you as time goes on. I am very proud to be the daughter of a lioness. I love you and miss you. Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy. My mom wasn’t famous. She never invented anything. She never wrote a book, recorded a song, or served in public office. She didn’t know how to speak another language, fly a plane, or perform surgery. When she died from cancer at the age of 59, she didn’t leave behind hundreds of mourners. And yet, the legacy she left made a tremendous difference in the world and lives of others. Generations have been forever changed because of the choices she made for my siblings and me. She lived long enough to see me start my 30-year career of working to change the world for women and girls. She was proud of me, but I don’t think she understood the impact of her courage. My mother made certain the cycle of violence ended with her by creating a safe place for us that was violence-free, even though she had to teach herself what that could be. And like other survivors, she made the world better.

Mental Health Awarness Have you been feeling down since the pandemic?

By Cristina Carter & Dr. Michelle Mitcham

Maybe you were already feeling overwhelmed, and the pandemic made things worse. In honor of mental health awareness month, we would like to shed light on the fact that according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) women

• Schedule time for regular selfcare. This may include going to the doctor for your regular checkups and scheduling needed exams or interventions. Spending time outdoors to soak up some sunshine and receive the benefits of vitamin D.

• Exercise. Consider taking a walk or bike ride. Try a group fitness class online.

• Drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods. Eliminate smoking and excessive alcohol.

• Practice effective and problemfocused coping skills, not emotion-

are twice as likely to experience depression than men in their lifetime. Women are also twice as likely to experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and generalized anxiety disorder than men. Perhaps its due to the fact that full-time female workers earn one-fourth less than men or 1 of 3 women have experienced sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner. Regardless of the road we took to get us where we are today, let’s all take a moment to support one another and to remind each other we are in this together.

Looking for ways to support your mental health and alleviate stress? Check out these out!

focused. Find ways to manage stress so that stressful situations do not overwhelm you. Look for solutions.

• Invest in yourself and take on a fun hobby or project. Consider learning something new.

• Practice mindfulness, meditation, relaxation breathing, and guided imagery.

• Reach out to friends and family to stay connected, even if by telephone and FaceTime.

• Connect with the community by volunteering and helping others, which is rewarding.

• Join a women’s support group in the community. Know that you are not alone.

• If experiencing extreme sadness, hopelessness, negativity, or not feeling like yourself, seek out the expertise of a trained therapist or other professional. Visit PsychologyToday.com to find a listing of a therapist near you or through teletherapy.

• Repeat positive affirmations and know that you are worthy.

FOOD Food

Nella’s Sausage & Corn Chowder

By Amanda Morrison | Photography by The Workmans

With Mother’s Day approaching, we start to think about those “Mom” recipes that are more memory than meal. For many in Tallahassee, there is a “Culinary Mother” of sorts who helped shape the way we think about food and entertaining. Nella Schomburger was one of the most influential hospitality forces in the 1980’s, when she served as the manager of the Governor’s Mansion during the Graham administration. It was there that she discovered and developed celebrity Chef Art Smith, then a talented student at Florida State University just getting his start. Nella went on to manage several restaurants, including one of her own, and ran a successful catering company all the way up to her passing in 2014.

I met Nella through one of the most influential women in my life, Susan Turner. Susan was also a trailblazer for women in the food and beverage industry, starting Tallahassee restaurant staple Food Glorious Food thirty-nine years ago. As I continued to grow in my own career and ultimately open my own business, Susan was always there to share advice, encouragement, and a good recipe.

One of those recipes is Nella’s Sausage & Corn Chowder. It was a signature item at her restaurant, Anella’s, and the recipe also appeared in the Junior League Thymes Remembered cookbook first published in 1988. I’ve lost my copy of the recipe, but it’s so beautifully simple I’ve had it committed to memory for years. Every time I make this soup I feel a connection to Nella, Susan, and the many women in this industry who paved the way for me and many more to follow.

Ingredients

1 pound mild bulk sausage

1 large white onion, chopped

3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

2 tsp. salt, or to taste

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 tsp. dried basil

2 cups water

1 17-ounce can cream style corn

1 17-ounce can whole kernel

corn, drained

1 12-ounce can evaporated milk

Directions

1. Heat a very small drizzle of oil to a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage and brown while breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula or wooden spoon.

2. Add onion to the pot, allowing it to soften in the oil rendered from the sausage. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add potatoes and season with the salt, pepper, and dried basil. Add water, both cans of corn, and evaporated milk and stir to combine.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to bring to a simmer. Cook for another 20-30 minutes, until the potatoes are soft.

5. Season to taste, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

WE Insire

"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty."

-Maya Angelou

HONORING Trailblazers

Women who transform our community TRAILBLAZERS

n March 1, 2021, The Oasis Center for Women & Girls celebrated Women’s History Month during their 13th annual Trailblazer Event. The Trailblazer event is the largest community-wide event celebrating the extraordinary contributions made by women and girls to our quality of life in Tallahassee/Leon County. The Oasis Center Board of Directors honored the women pictured at left.

According to the National Women’s History Museum, of 737 historical figures taught in standard curricula, just 178 are women … including several fictional characters. The Oasis Center is committed to changing that locally by celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments made by local women. Oasis believes it is imperative that our sons and their sons and grandsons recognize the power of women by introducing them to the women who helped make this community and our nation great. Our daughters and their daughters and granddaughters have a chance to be anything they want to be by showing them the endless possibilities for their lives. By highlighting the accomplishments of these extraordinary women and girls, we light a path for generations of girls to follow into their own futures.

Legacy Award