Month: July 2020

Fun-loving Community Advocate with a Heart of Gold

On a sweltering July afternoon, Mike Goldstein is completely comfortable as we sit by the fountain at Kleman Plaza. His red T-shirt reads “Are you bike curious?” with the hashtag justkeeppedaling referring to his business Capital City Pedicabs.

This boyish-looking man somehow reminds me of Peter Pan and may be of slight build, but his social stature is enormously impressive. Mike is respected by students, stars, and prominent political and business leaders of Tallahassee. He is a business owner, graphic designer, gamer, writer, and autograph collector.

Mike, tell me a little bit about your job.

       I own Tallahassee’s first pedicab business. We offer eco-friendly and affordable rides on our three-wheeled bikes that can hold up to four passengers. We know the best places, events, and the best ways to get there. As owner and one of the drivers, I get to see the best of Tallahassee on three wheels.

What else do you love about Tallahassee?

       Great football, great politics, and so much more. We have amazing places to see all year round.

What do you enjoy doing for fun and relaxation?

       I love rocking out to music to get my creative juices flowing. Hitting up a karaoke night at a local bar, meeting celebrities at a comic con, or hanging out at afterhours events.

What makes you an exuberant person?

       I am a people connector and master networker. If I don’t know someone, I will very soon. And I will help them connect with others by the end of an event. I encourage everyone to get out, explore Tallahassee and be sure to support local businesses.

Any other places you’d like to see?

       I would like to revisit Los Angeles and maybe go see New Zealand.

Anything else you’d care to share?

       Be positive, be kind. Remember…just keep pedaling and everything will be alright.

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This is the very essence of the true Mike Goldstein. He is all about finding joy in fun and games. He is all about exploring the neighborhoods and encouraging the business owners of his Tallahassee, Florida, hometown. He is all about bringing people together and bringing out the best in everyone he meets. He is a fun-loving community advocate with a heart of gold.

Book Review (because reading is a great thing to do)

“A Chasing of the Wind” by Anthony W. Kalberg

This delightful historical fiction novel is loosely based on several true events which happened on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It takes place between 1938 and 1959.

The primary character is Cooper Austin Barnes. His school days were followed by time spent in the military. As an adult, Cooper became the Sheriff of the loveable town of Port Haven. He would eventually piece together the odd puzzle and solve the 21-year-old mystery of a scandalous local double homicide.

The novel is a pure joy to read and mentions several real events and locations on the coast. Those who are already enamored with the fabulous literary works of past Mississippi writers will certainly love this book. Others, yet unfamiliar with this part of the world, will get a unique perspective on a sprinkling of bizarre bawdiness amid tons of sweet Southern charm.

The characters seem very real. The descriptiveness is enough to make any reader want to pack a suitcase and take a coastal vacation.

From homemade pickles to a fishing rodeo to a catastrophic hurricane, DANG Y’ALL, this historical fiction truly captures the essence of a bygone era. But you will soon realize that even back then there were hidden secrets too deep and dark to mention in pleasant company.

“A Chasing of the Wind” is an excellent book that is sure to keep the reader entertained for hours.

You can order a copy from the author by sending an email to him. The email address is iougarbo@cableone.net.

Anthony W. Kalberg will soon be fulfilling his lifelong dream of directing the play “A Streetcar Named Desire”. The play will be scheduled as soon as the Covid pandemic has settled down and activities along the Mississippi coast return to somewhat normal.  When that time comes you can be sure that I will let you know.

Thanks for reading this book review. I would be THRILLED to receive YOUR comments.