Dang Y’all

Introducing Angel, the Entrepreneur

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Her friends call her Angel. She speaks kind words to encourage those who struggle.  As is so incredibly often the case, her own past heartaches have anchored her faith in God and deepened her compassion for the pain of others.  Her determination and her faith are unshakable. Angel has laid claim to her inner boldness and faces each new day with anticipation and confidence.

Angel has anticipation and confidence.

Can you share a bit about who you are and what you do?

   I am Angel Baratta, I grew up in Fort Lauderdale and have lived in Tallahassee about thirty years. Much of that time was spent working a normal office job. Recently I found the courage to venture out on my own to pursue several entrepreneurial paths which seemed to be calling me. They all relate to using my heart, my art, and my talent for a higher purpose and a more meaningful life.

What more can you say about those pursuits?   My heart had led me to begin working with and advocating for those who have survived trauma. My art has led me to begin a website (www.AngBarLLC.com) where I can showcase beautiful stainless-steel jewelry and various forms of my creative expression. My talent is efficiency and organizational skills, I help others get that way and save time and energy for more important things. This has led me to collaborations and the potential for some future online summits to empower others.

Lots of hobbies and passions enhance my life.

What do you appreciate most about Tallahassee?

   There is so much beauty in nature here. The old live oak trees with that Spanish moss are gorgeous. We actually have some nice hills in this part of Florida. And it is easy to catch a glimpse of deer and other creatures.

What are your thoughts on travel?

   Places I have been and would gladly visit again include the state of Washington and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota. The top destination on my bucket list is Hawaii. Travel is a thrill of discovery and makes for great memories. I often think back to a fun experience when I was 17. All I will say is that it involved a ski lodge and snow. I am eager to travel again when it is safe, and the time is right.

What hobbies and passions do you enjoy?

   Music is a big one because it moves me so much. I listen to mostly Christian, country and western, and 80’s. I have been regularly active in ballroom dancing. It makes me feel good, and pretty, is great exercise, and can be done to almost any type of music. My favorite dance types include East coast swing, cha cha, and country two-step. I have one competition under my belt and plan to take private lessons and do more competition once the pandemic is over. I enjoy listening to audio books when I take long walks. I also enjoy doing crochet. The other thing that I love is my rescue dog Charlie, a “Chiweenie Pit” mix who enhances my life.

What makes you an exuberant person?

   My morning routine combines things like meditation, visualization, exercise, and journaling to start the day off on a positive note. I remove myself from negativity so that I can do my best and make things better. I have big ideas and big faith, so as long as those things are in God’s will I claim and pursue them. I choose to love myself and be optimistic about the future.

Optimistic about the future.

Do you have a message for the world?

   You are worthy of shaping your own dreams and your own future. Pray and rely on God. Don’t be afraid to ask smart people for help when you need it. Surround yourself with positive people. Believe in yourself and take steps to make life great.

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Dang y’all, did you find Angel Baratta as exciting and inspirational as I did? She is so positive and motivational. I may try to get together and collaborate with her at some point to bring out the best in others.

So, thanks for reading. Now please leave some nice comments, then go out and have an awesome day!

Share Your Gratefulness

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To be GRATEFUL means deeply thankful or appreciative of any kindness or benefits. During this season of Thanksgiving I simply want to share with you, my wonderful readers, some heartfelt musings on choosing to be grateful.

I choose to start and end each day with a prayer of gratitude to my Creator who extends mercy and grace to me. I choose to follow that example by extending my own version of compassion and courtesy to others. I also choose to encourage everyone to think positive.

I choose to be grateful.

Most people’s GRATEFUL list would likely include family, health, food, and money. Yes, those are great, but here are a few additional things to include. I am grateful that I have a comfortable bed with fluffy pillows and warm covers. I am grateful that I have a pleasant home where I can take a refreshing shower at any time. I have the freedom to play with my pets, drive my car, visit my friends, and enjoy my hobbies.

This is my dog Gizmo.

Today I choose to be grateful that I am not in a hospital or in a prison, then I say a quick prayer those who are. I choose to be grateful that I am not living on the streets or in a domestic abuse situation, again pausing to think of those who are. I choose to see the beauty in my surroundings.

Beautiful surroundings near my home.

The world can seem so negative. People spew out words of meanness, hatred, or complaint much too casually. I am grateful to those who choose to take the more hopeful and cheerful tone. They speak in sweetness and light which renews my faith in humankind. I celebrate the happy people who keep a song in their heart, a kind word on their lips, and an optimistic attitude.

 I also celebrate the fact that you and can agree to disagree on issues. We can have differing opinions yet can be mature enough to accept and appreciate each other. Today I am grateful that I live in Florida, have many special loved ones, and can laugh out loud at whatever seems funny.

One of my many hobbies that brings me joy.

It is my deepest hope that you have many reasons to be grateful today. I would love to hear from you. Please take a moment to share some of your gratefulness.  Thank you.

Meet Pete at the Crum Box Gastgarden

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Pete Evarts has lived in Tallahassee for 26 years and for over 6 of those years he has run the most recognizable eating establishment in town.

Pete hopes YOU will visit the Crum Box Gastgarden.

What can you tell me about your work?

   Located in the Railroad Square Art District at 602 Industrial Drive, you can’t miss my place. There’s a red caboose, a teal building with a red door, and a spacious outdoor seating area that includes a stage for live events. I am pretty much a one-man show here, except for occasional special performances of comedy or music. I came up with the name Crum Box Gastgarden because “crummy” is slang for caboose and “gastgarden” is a play on gastric having to do with the stomach.

A lunch favorite in Tallahassee.

What are your specialties?

   Fans love the “punk and gut” sausage and bread. The sausage is artisanal, and I love to create exciting new variety and flavor combos. I make a homemade vegan chili from scratch and got the recipe from someone very close to me. Other delicious favorites include pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, and cucumber salad. To me, food is an art…and my food business is in an art district. I love to cook and to meet my customers. Many of them become my friends.

Side orders are always delicious.

How do you feel about Tallahassee?

   This is a beautiful area with lots of great food and great art. What I like the most is that I get to meet so many people and enjoy a deep sense of community.

What are some places you’ve been or hope to visit?

   Travel is something I love. I’ve enjoyed travels in Ireland where driving is different yet still fun, and in several European countries. At the top of my current bucket list would have to be Canada and Iceland.

What are your passions or hobbies?

   I am a pretty simple man. When I am at work, I like to mingle with my customers, entertain them a bit, and make sure they are happy.  When I’m not at work, I enjoy yard work, taking long drives, and spending lots of time with my loved ones.

What makes you an exuberant person?

   I am an incredibly positive person. I choose to believe than many more positive things will happen once we all figure out the “new normal”. I like to think that people who come to eat at the Crum Box Gastgarden will get to know me and think of me as a beacon of positivity.

The red caboose in Railroad Square Art District.

What is your message to the world?

   This is so remarkably simple and may sound too basic or fundamental, but here is my message, “Be kind to each other!”

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Dang y’all, Pete is awesome, He works hard, creates wonderful food, and maintains such a positive outlook on life. He is great at multitasking while also carrying on a fun conversation. I highly recommend getting to know him and enjoying a tasty meal at the Crum Box Gastgarden. https://www.facebook.com/thecrumbox/

Perhaps you would kindly leave your positive comment. Thank you.

Artists Helping Artists: Pop-Up Plans

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Ann Kozeliski started AHA two years ago.

ART is thriving in the Tallahassee, Florida area. A bit of credit can go to Ann Kozeliski who is the founder/creator/idea person of a fabulous organization called Artists Helping Artists, or AHA. She informs readers, “It began as its name implies. An artist needed help and artists came together to meet the need. That was two years ago and AHA continues to provide opportunities for artists to promote and sell their work. AHA is looking forward to growing, providing programming collaborating with local organizations, and knowing the world is a much better place with Art in it.”

Diane Dyal knows AHA helps our community.

AHA member Diane Beauvais Dyal is happy to be a part of the group. She shares, “I have met so many new friends that have similar art related interests. The tasks I do for the organization   give me a sense of purpose keeping me busy doing something productive and worthwhile. I believe it helps me create things I might not create ordinarily. AHA is good for the community because it gets the artists out there helping do things that benefit the community directly or indirectly. Right now, I am doing Christmas ornaments for Havana Main Street and it benefits me as an artist as well as Havana. A win-win!”

Pop-Up in Havana, FL on Nov 14 & Dec 12.

AHA member Joy Green is super excited to tell everyone about two big upcoming events for AHA. She explains, “Artists Helping Artists is a fairly new group of Tallahassee area artists. Its goal is just as it sounds: positive events, opportunities and possibilities for artists and the arts in this area. The Pop-Up Gallery is one such event. It will be in Havana at the Paint Dog Gallery on Saturday, November 14, 10-5. We have a total of 13 vendors and 11 exhibitors for this show. Paintings, mixed media, graphics, cards, prints, jewelry, turned wood, wood utensils, Christmas ornaments and signs, handbags and totes, straw basket art, pottery, and glass, Come and shop for the holidays! Paint Dog Gallery, 307 N. Main Street, Havana, Florida. We plan a second event, an encore, December 12, same location and times.”

Spread the love of joyful art.

AHA member Angela Dowdy (author of this article) adds this thought, “Artists Helping Artists is something every local artist can appreciate. There is such a positive energy when creative minds meet and share ideas. Whether young or old, whether novice or pro, we want to spread the love of vibrant and joyful art throughout our community and beyond.”

Vibrant ART for yourself or a loved one.

https://www.ahatallahassee.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AHATallahassee

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Dang y’all, I sure hope that everyone within driving distance of Tallahassee and Havana will plan to come help us CELEBRATE ART . Come join us as we show appreciation and support for AHA at the Pop-Up Gallery on November 14th and December 12th. What a perfect time to find that special gift for yourself or a loved one. What a perfect way to experience the beauty and joy of art.

Have You Met Corrinne Vernick Yet?

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She prefers being called Corrie and likes her coffee with cream and sugar. She is a single mom who is successfully raising a teenage son, working a full-time job, plus a good side job, and still makes time for some fascinating passions and hobbies.

What can you tell us about your work?

   In my official capacity as Community Standards Coordinator for a homeowner’s association, I help enforce rules and protect property values and aesthetics. In my side job as Independent Senior Beauty Consultant for Mary Kay, I help empower people to care for their skin and earn extra income.

I love meeting people and doing what makes me happy!

What are your greatest strengths?

   I love meeting new people and treating each one with transparency, kindness, and respect. I am very resilient while helping others to gain confidence. By increased networking and stepping out of my comfort zone I’ve made many wonderful new friends.

What are your thoughts on travel?

   Wisconsin is where I grew up and would love to revisit one day. I recently visited Providence Canyon State Park in Lumpkin, Georgia. That is a fun and absolutely gorgeous place. Alaska is a place that seems to be calling me to come see it for the first time. Tallahassee has great nature trails and hidden gems like Lichgate or Lafayette Park. Plus, it is near the coast and who doesn’t need a little beach therapy now and then? A walk in the woods or some sitting by the sea helps charge my creative batteries.

What hobbies and passions do you enjoy?

   My teenage son wants to become a marine biologist and I share his love for reading and science. My interests run from bartending to histology to tattoos. I like classic rock of the 70’s and also 90’s rock. I love abstract art and one of my favorite foods is eggplant. I enjoy painting old, discarded flowerpots, and breathing new life into them. Volunteer work with local animal rescue groups is the other thing that I find deeply rewarding.

I find the silver lining in any situation!

What makes you an exuberant person?

   Coffee first, please! Then paying attention to details, having adventures, and learning new things. I can find the smallest silver lining in any situation and that allows me to make the best from all kinds of circumstances.

Do you have a message to share with the world?

   Treat others as you wish to be treated and make the world a better place. Just be yourself. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for doing what makes you happy!

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Dang y’all!  Corrie seems to be an unstoppable force, full of vim and vigor. She can brighten anyone’s day with her sweet personality and beautiful smile.

Please remember to use Contact or Comments to leave your kind thoughts, thanks. And, hey, take a minute to spread the good word about EmbraceSouthernStates!!!

Lydia Bell & RR Square

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Ask Tallahassee locals where to find the perfect combination of local art, affordable food, and vintage goods… the answer is usually Railroad Square. Ask them to explain what the place is or who helps keep it organized… the answer is usually a blank stare. Well, the good news is that just a few months ago Lydia Bell became the Executive Director at “ACERS”, an acronym for the nonprofit organization Arts and Cultural Experiences at Railroad Square.

How do you explain your job?

   With a background as artist and small business owner, I bring needed resources to the art district to help manifest art into cultural experiences that benefit our citizens and local economy. It is exciting to share ideas and information with such a diverse group of talented artists. We all continually boost each other’s confidence and fan the flames of passion for our work. I love the trust and freedom I have been handed in this position. As a dreamer and a doer, I know now is a great time to show Tallahassee some magic while doing projects which will also highlight the true worth of these amazing artists.

Why should the general public respect what Railroad Square is all about?

   The artists and small business owners here work hard to provide goods and services to make a living doing what they love and still pay their bills. The government may think of them as common people with expensive hobbies in little stores, yet they have real power to do big and beautiful work. They also deserve big support by real patrons. They are a huge part of what draws people to Tallahassee.

What else do you love about Tallahassee?

   Tallahassee is a quirky and unique city with a deep history. We are going through changes during an interesting time, somehow Tallahassee will emerge as more progressive and positive than ever. We have beautiful variety of nature and landscapes, as well as proximity to many of Florida’s best locations.

The people of Railroad Square are diverse and talented.

How do you feel about travel?

   Travel sparks my creativity. I love to research places to visit and what to photograph and how to fit it into my schedule. I love returning to favorite California cities like San Francisco or Laguna Beach. I want to see the whole world. If I had to choose a destination right this second, I would say Rome, Italy is extremely high on my bucket list.

What other topics bring out your passion?

   The utmost would be my daughter. A fun memory is of a time I took her out of school early so we could attend a Paramore concert in Jacksonville for her birthday. I have an overwhelming passion for all art forms, which certainly includes music. I strongly believe that people need more respect of each other’s intelligence. We need to be straight with one another to have meaningful conversations on any topic without fear of confrontation or complication.

What makes you an exuberant person?

   I am resourceful, honest, and loyal. I get excited about all the friendships and opportunities here at Railroad Square. We all share enormous hope for a bright future. The work can be exhausting, yet also tremendously rewarding.

What is your message to the world?

   Above all else, the Golden Rule remains golden for a reason. Remember to always treat others the way you wish to be treated.

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Dang y’all, Lydia Bell has such enthusiasm for the Railroad Square art district and a deep commitment to making sure that “ACERS” helps achieve its true potential.

Please be sure to use the Contact form to leave YOUR comments about this article. We are eager to hear from YOU.

Meet Melvin Beal: On TV and Talent

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I love connecting with people.

Some people are good at speaking in person. Others prefer to speak behind a microphone or a computer. Some people are good at being charming, funny, or heartfelt. Others make it their mission to broadcast a clear and direct message. Melvin Beal does all these things, and does them tremendously well. He uses his time and his talents to share stories of hope that could transform the world.

Could you tell me a little about your job?

   My job is to make sure people in our area can view programs on WVUP-TV. I make decisions about the quality of program content that appears on our channel, which is an affiliate of the Christian Television Network. I have a talent for expanding, enhancing, and exposing God’s kingdom through excellent content.

Nothing is too hard for God.

Would you share a bit about your background?

   A proud Tallahassee native, I grew up three blocks from FAMU. I worked in both radio and TV while at FAMU majoring in broadcast journalism. I worked in Tampa for some years. Coming back home really made me understand how deeply I love and appreciate Tallahassee.

What do you enjoy most about Tallahassee?

   We have great educational institutions with excellent sports. There are many cultural and historical sites, such as the Museum of Florida History. We have some of the most beautiful gardens and parks in the world. Cascades Park is the newest example. There is also a marvelous diversity among our people.

What travel destinations stand out to you?

   Toronto, Canada, is one of the cleanest cities I ever visited. A place that I would love to visit in the future is Alaska.

What is the most fun thing you ever did?

   Broadcasting college football games as a play-by-play announcer on ESPN was an incredibly fun and exciting opportunity that I will always cherish.

What passions and hobbies are important to you?

   I enjoy taking daily two-mile walks throughout my community. I spark my creativity through prayer and meditation. I have talent in website design and content. Food and music both play a big role in my life. But my deepest passion is being a people person.

Do you think you are a great people person?

   Absolutely, I am! My mom, who was my hero, taught me to always acknowledge and speak to people. Sharing conversation with others means connecting. Connecting leads to gaining knowledge. I believe it is vital to discuss all aspects of an issue with transparency and honesty. That leads to any needed resolutions and better understanding. My biggest strength is meeting people and engaging them in meaningful conversations.

 What makes you an exuberant person?

   My joy is anchored in my solid conviction that there is nothing too hard for God.

Do you have a message to share with the world?

   Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all of his righteousness.   

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Melvin is friendly, funny, and fascinating. He really can spend hours swapping stories with a stranger. Yet, dang y’all, the person walks away feeling like an abundantly blessed and deeply moved friend.

I hope YOU will take a moment to share your comment about this article, thank you.

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