Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water Donates $50,000 to Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful

Awesome job Zephyrhills! Previous stories here and here

The Zephyrhills brand  hosts family friendly event for Tampa Bay community  to celebrate 50th anniversary milestone with visits to WaterVentures Florida’s Learning Lab and fun activities for all

 On Saturday, October 25, 2014, Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water, a Nestlé Waters North America brand, donated $50,000 in honor of its 50th anniversary and its commitment to preserving Florida’s natural water resources  to Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and Tampa Bay Watch at the Zephyrhills  Community Open House.  The funding donated by the Zephyrhills brand will be shared by these organizations to help support clean up and education events at parks along the Hillsborough River, and help to preserve Tampa Bay.

“One of our missions at Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful is to provide environmental education and volunteer opportunities for the community,” said Debra Evenson, Executive Director, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. “With the money contributed by the Zephyrhills brand, and the support of loyal Floridians, we will be able to expand our involvement in clean up events, meeting at area parks and disseminating throughout communities along the Hillsborough River, to help to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Hillsborough River and Tampa Bay.”

“Thanks to the generous donation from the Zephyrhills brand, we will be able to continue to protect and restore the delicate ecosystem of Tampa Bay,” said Captain Peter Clark, Founder and President, Tampa Bay Watch. “Over the next year, we’ll be continuing habitat restoration and protection activities and are grateful to the brand for their support.”

The donation to Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and Tampa Bay Watch was supported by Florida consumers, called on by the Zephyrhills brand to share their favorite things about Florida using #FLfavorites. Every post or share of the #FLfavorites hashtag, along with “Florida Favorite Sun Badges” collected at various local events triggered a dollar toward the $50,000 donation. In total, Tampa Bay residents shared 23,748 things they loved above Florida. The brand is making a donation in this amount, plus an incremental donation to reach a grand total of $50,000.

Zephyrhills Community Open House: A Celebration of 50 Years

At the Zephyrhills Community Open House, being held at the Zephyrhills Plant from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tampa Bay local residents and businesses, government officials and Zephyrhills brand employees will experience a free day of family fun including a tour of the state-of-the-art bottling facility, a barbeque lunch, face painting, games and a visit to the kid-friendly, educational WaterVentures Learning Lab. 

Florida’s WaterVentures Learning Lab, which traveled to more than 250 schools this past year and is supported by the Zephyrhills brand, is a traveling science center that teaches families and youth about environmental stewardship. At the Open House, kids and their families will be invited to visit the WaterVentures lab, which features watershed tables, recycling exhibits, a relief map of Florida’s water features and a display of a Florida aquifer, and will be able to learn hands-on about protecting Florida’s natural resources.

“We are thrilled to open our doors today to the local community and present Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and Tampa Bay Watch with this donation in celebration of our 50th anniversary initiative,” said Donald Bowen, Nestlé Waters Plant Manager for the Zephyrhills brand. “We are honored to celebrate what’s most natural in Florida and continue to help preserve Florida’s waterways and natural resources in the future.” 

The Zephyrhills Community Open House marks the culmination of the brand’s 50th anniversary. Since 1964, Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water has been sourced from natural, sustainable springs in Florida. These include the nearby Crystal Springs Preserve, which is visited by more than 50,000 students each year.  The Zephyrhills plant employs 250 people local to the area, with 900 more employees working on the brand. Today Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water is enjoyed throughout the state of Florida.

Learn more about the Zephyrhills brand by visiting www.zephyrhillswater.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Zephyrhillswater or following on Twitter and Instagram at @ZephyrhillsWtr.

About Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water
Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water joined Nestlé Waters North America in 1982, but the brand’s heritage goes back to 1964. Zephyrhills® Brand 100% Natural Spring Water is sourced only from carefully selected springs, and the soils and limestone of the Floridan Aquifer uniquely filter the water to create perfectly balanced minerals for great taste. Zephyrhills is more than a brand name; it’s a celebration of what’s most natural about Florida.

To learn more about Zephyrhills® Brand Natural Spring Water, please visit the brand website www.zephyrhillswater.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/zephyrhillswater.

About Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful
Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Inc. (KTBB), a Keep America Beautiful Affiliate, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide environmental education and volunteer opportunities that develop individual responsibility and environmental stewardship. Since 1989, KTBB has formed partnerships with local governments, corporations, schools, and neighborhood organizations to engage individuals and provide opportunities to enhance the community through volunteer participation. To get involved with KTBB, call (813) 221-8733 or visit KeepTampaBayBeautiful.org.

About Tampa Bay Watch
Tampa Bay Watch is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) stewardship program dedicated exclusively to the charitable and scientific purpose of protecting and restoring the marine and wetland environments of the Tampa Bay estuary encompassing over 400 square miles of open water and 2,300 square miles of highly- developed watershed. Tampa Bay Watch involves more than 10,000 youth and adult volunteers each year in hands on habitat restoration projects.  

About Nestlé Waters North America
As the third largest non-alcoholic beverage company by volume in the U.S., Nestlé Waters North America provides people with an unrivaled portfolio of water as healthy hydration.   Among them are natural spring water brands such as Poland Spring ®, Deer Park®, Zephyrhills® and Arrowhead®.  Its national purified water brand is Nestlé® Pure Life®.  International brands include Perrier® and S.Pellegrino®.  The company’s line of ready-to-drink teas now includes Nestea®, Sweet Leaf® and Tradewinds®. Based in Stamford, Connecticut with 7,500 employees nationwide, Nestlé Waters strives to reduce its environmental footprint, improve recycling rates in North America, and create shared value in those communities where it has operations.  

The company’s 10 full-time Natural Resource Managers, trained hydrologists, geologists and engineers monitor our spring sources and manage them for long-term sustainability. To reach success, the company follows its credo: Respect for each other, respect for the environment, and respect for the community. For more information, please visit www.nestlewatersfl.com.


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COA Santa For Seniors Gift Drive


Be a special part of the 2014 Santa for Seniors Gift Collection Drive and help create warm memories for our seniors in Volusia County. All collected gifts will then be distributed to COA clients just before Christmas.

It’s easy! Drop off unwrapped gifts your local Walgreens Store anywhere in Volusia County!

Santa for Seniors Gift Drive for the Council on Aging/Meals on Wheels that will take place on Thursday, November 20th to Thursday, December 4th. All Drop off locations will be at all the 26 Volusia County Walgreen’s Stores. Please drop off any unwrapped gifts and they will be distributed to COA Clients just before Christmas.  

Unwrapped Gift Ideas: Slippers, Socks, Sweaters, Gift Cards, Postage Stamps, Toiletries, Bath Bench, Adult Diapers, and ALL cash Donations are matched five times, $1 buck turns into $5 dollars. Imagine what we can do together!

Remember all of your donations are tax deductible.

Council On Aging thanks you in advance for your support. For More information please call 386-253-4700 ext. 215 or pchanfrau@coaiaa.org visit COAVolusia.org.

Remember please drop off your loose change, to change a Senior’s life!




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Governor Scott and Governor Christie Visits Ormond Beach

Oh, HEY Mitt!
So, a little fact about me....I follow politics rather closely. I have VERY strong opinions on many things political and one day I may self combust by not sharing it with the rest of the world. There is a time and place for this kind of thing, and most of the time it is neither the time not the place. I will tell you that I had a wonderful father who urged me to register as an Independant until I was certain which, if any stance I wanted to take. So, my thoughts of being politically correct is mine alone, not just because someone told me I had to do this or that. Ok, off my drivel soapbox. 

My friend Heather of The Heather Post Company and I have our political beliefs aligned like the stars and the moon. Who else would go hang out with Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan in Lakeland at 7a, prompting a 3am wake up call? So when I saw that our Governor Rick Scott and New Jersey's Governor Chris Christie, I knew just who to call. Bonus: it was in Ormond Beach! 

We got there SUPER early per the norm, and were practically helping his camp set up. The reason for the visit is obvious. The election is in one week and it is time to get out and get voting early. Why wait? I actually like to go on Election Day (may or not wear Jackie O sunglasses to get in the mood) but the idea to vote early is attractive. 

We met Ron DeSantis, who is the United States Representative for Florida's 6th congressional district since 2013, running for re-election, Travis Hutson, a Republican member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing the 24th District, and Fred Costello, who is running for his old seat for as a State Rep for District 25, you see I didn't have to Google his official title on that one, he was one of my first clients in 2010-which we won thank you very much!   

A fun day, a little starstruck by Gov Christie, because I just like that he speaks his mind. I don't care who you vote for, wishy washy is no bueno. I am so glad he came even with the ebola storm! I am searching and searching for photos of me and Heather who STOOD behind the Govs....but I will be damned if the news would pick that awesomeness up! But in the meantime:




Rep. DeSantis



Jersey Shore yo!
Update: Sadly, I was in a photographer's view where I was hidden by every shot I could find. Exhibit A:


Finally! I found one to prove I was there-



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Ormond Beach Chamber Vants To Suck Your Blood!



Date :
10/29/2014 from 09:00 AM to 01:00 PM

Location :
Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce
Bloodmobile
165 West Granada Boulevard
Ormond Beach, FL 32174

Make an Appointment :
Click Here

Why Give Blood?
There is no substitute for human blood.  When you donate blood with OneBlood, you are making an immediate contribution to the health and welfare of your community.

Blood is needed by patients facing planned and unplanned medical procedures, trauma victims, cancer patients and premature babies.  Your donation will help an ill or injured patient within a few days.  The turn-around is that fast, the need is constant.

What do I have to do?

Making an appointment is easy.

Click on the link located below.  You will see the blood drive appointment schedule.  Select a time that you wish to donate.  Once you choose a time you will be directed to our website to log in.  Enter your username and password.  If you have forgotten either your username or password click on the links located below the submit button.  If you have any questions please call 1-888-936-6283.

Click Here now to make your appointment! You are going to save a life!

Questions and Comments?

If you have any questions about donating blood, please visit www.OneBlood.org. If you have any questions about the blood drive, contact Rick Fraser at rick@ormondchamber.com.

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What I Learned in Year Four of Being A Business Owner

Where does the time go? I am starting my FIFTH year being in business!! Holy! Am I swinging that percentage of not failing yet?! As I like to do, like I did First and Second (I don't know why I forgot the Third!) I wanted to check in with myself and you on what I learned in the last year.

After reading the two blogs above, I am a little surprised that not much has changed, I still deeply believe in all those life lessons owning a business has gifted me.

Like, I still can't believe I am pulling this off...when does this waiting for the other shoe to drop feeling STOP? Seriously, when? I have oodles of self confidence, but why am I still waiting for something not to work. As I am knocking every piece of wood in the house.

This year, I can't say I got any bigger, but I think I have made peace with myself that this is what makes me happy...steady, not dear God I am buried work. Yes, the potential is there to double (or more) my income, but what kind of life does that leave me? I am just not interested. Trust me, I make a very blessed income....but money doesn't motivate me as much as having my sanity on a consistent basis. I worked for ten years selling advertising STRESSING over the bottom dollar every second of ever day and even thinking of it still makes me queasy. And isn't it fun to go walk the bridge on a beautiful day just because you can?

I feel VERY SORRY for people that are only motivated my money....the people that would stab their own to get ahead. Don't worry darling, your visit to the Karma Cafe is coming soon-where there are no menus and you are served what you deserve.

That was my most important lesson this year...I became a little more comfortable with people who are just nasty people. People who don't pay you, who have bad work ethics, people who don't pay you, ha ha ....etc. Some of the stuff rolls right off of me, but some still aggravates me to no end. This year with some experience behind me has given me a little courage to go get that money...or to remind some of my clients who get sold a line of bull and goes somewhere else, that I don't take clients back on attrition. You go, you are gone. Pretty sure my 2010 self is looking at me in amazement!  

One thing I will continue to work on is the Work smarter, not harder mentality...I will constantly tweak my systems to make my business better. I just read a great article about spring (or fall) cleaning your freelance business without spending a penny, consistent little hacks to make you more efficient...I am all for that!

Lastly, a goal in year five is to hold my dears close and set free those don't benefit me...I am speaking of clients, peers, etc. What is stopping me from working with only people that appreciate me?

What is your go to business advice or learning lessons? Do you check in with yourself on a yearly basis? Im curious!



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Painting with a Twist Daytona


Nothing makes me happier than a good night out with my girlfriends. This is the second time that we have taken it to the canvas and did some painting. I am seriously considering getting supplies for Christmas and becoming my own Picasso. And as I showed you here, if it doesn't look good I can always do something creative with the remnants.

Last night, my girlfriends and I visited the new Painting with a Twist in Daytona. We had a BLAST! Like, I am scared I am gonna spend all my money visiting this place. We did a Painting with a Purpose (their first one!) for our Junior League of Daytona Beach, with a portion of the proceeds that night going back to our League. How cool, right?

We were able to purchase the class online, and they served wine and beer for purchase (Bonus!). This is a great place to have fun with your friends, or meet new friends; relax or just let your hair down and be you; or simply discover your inner artist. Our talented team of instructors Shelby, Pete and Bobbie were patient and awesome and they guided you step by step through the session's featured painting.

Painting with the Twist provides all painting supplies and artist instructions. No art experience is needed, seriously do you know me?

They do open classes, which are fun for you and a friend or small group and private party for adults or kids are great for groups of ten (10) or more. Trust me, many a person will be getting a gift certificate from me for Christmas. How fun would that be as a prize?

Follow them on the web and Facebook to hear about studio events, get sneak previews of new art and our monthly calendar, participate in promotions exclusive to Facebook fans, and more!

Ok, on to my piece of art-no judgement, I was drinking red wine. I also realize that my jewelry holder looks like he is auditioning for a Gumby commercial.







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Congrats Skimm! Oprah Bound!!


Very excited for the girls on the popular daily news service The Skimm! According to a Variety article this week, the girls are going BIG time and doing a great tie-in with Oprah herself on the OWN network.. 
Danielle Weisberg and Carly Zakin, former NBC News producers, founded TheSkimm in 2012 and now have more than 500,000 newsletter subscribers. I was on this early train singing their praises and couldn't be happier to see these girls do well! 

Very sweet that they remember me too, yay for you girls. 





Read full article here and be sure to subscribe today!

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November Potential Construction Start Date For One Daytona


Some exciting news from One Daytona....really can't wait for this great addition to Daytona Beach. 

ONE DAYTONA, the proposed mixed use and entertainment destination across from Daytona International Speedway (DIS), is entertaining bids October 15 for an initial construction phase that represents infrastructure improvements on the 190-acre property. Designed by Zev Cohen & Associates, Inc. of Ormond Beach, the early site work plans were issued in September to a short-list of Central Florida firms, many located within Volusia County. 

Pending approval by the joint venture and International Speedway Corporation’s (ISC) Board of 
Directors, the contractor may begin the first phase of work as early as November. Construction
will include filling existing ponds, excavating new ponds and installing storm water drainage 
piping to control site-wide drainage, along with rerouting fiber optic lines. In 2015, work will 
commence on underground utility installation in preparation for vertical construction. 

“The early site work will vastly improve the value of our land and maximize use of the property 
as needed for DAYTONA Rising,” said Derek Muldowney, Executive Vice President, Design & 
Development, ISC. “We plan to employ approximately 50 to 100 workers striving for as much
local representation as possible. We will treat this just as we did DAYTONA Rising.”

The early site work runs parallel to a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) pedestrian 
safety project currently underway along International Speedway Boulevard (ISB). A new 12-foot 
sidewalk is being installed on the north and south sides of ISB from Williamson Boulevard to 
Midway Avenue, along with a beautification project to include new roadway lighting, landscaping 
and permanent fencing. The project also features a new pedestrian bridge just west of Ruby 
Tuesday.

About ONE DAYTONA 
The first phase of ONE DAYTONA, a premier mixed-use retail, dining and entertainment 
destination directly across from the “World Center of Racing” in east Central Florida, is planned 
to open in 2016. Featuring 1.1 million square feet of retail, dining and accommodations, Phase 
One will also include 125,000 square feet of Class A office space and 310 luxury loft 
apartments. Bass Pro Shops® 70,000 square foot Outpost store and Cobb Theatres’ all 
reserved seating ‘Daytona Theatre’ will anchor the development. Shaner Hotels and Prime 
Hospitality Group (PHG) are planning a 145-room full-service boutique hotel located in the heart 
of Victory Circle, ONE DAYTONA’s high-energy entertainment district nearest Daytona 
International Speedway. 

For more information and the latest project updates, visit OneDaytona.com, follow us on Twitter
(@ONEDAYTONA) or Facebook (OneDaytona). 

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2014 Haute Holiday Fashion Show


WORC, Inc. is very excited to announce an exciting new event: The 2014 Haute Holiday Fashion Show! This event will be carefully and lovingly transition from the fashion show event once held by the Children's Advocacy Center that was supported so graciously by our community. 

Come enjoy our 'happy hour' style social event with festive food and beverages as you watch your friends from the community model fashions from our wonderful local retailers - White House Black Market, Jos. A. Bank and Chico's. 

For the past 44 years, WORC, Inc. has created positive change for individuals with disabilities in Volusia and Flagler counties. All proceeds from the event will benefit WORC in continuing to provide services to these individuals.

Poinsettias and the 2014 WORC Holiday Ornament will be available for purchase at the event.

Tickets: $65 per person
Purchase tickets by calling (386)-274-6474 ext. 17

For more information, email kferguson@worcinc.org


Thank you to our current top sponsors!

Brown & Brown Insurance and Mr. & Mrs. J. Hyatt Brown
Parker Mynchenberg & Associates
Ladies Professional Golf Association 
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center

Facebook Invite is here

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Making The Most of Your Waxing Experience

I'm not gonna lie, this is one of the not so fun things about being a girl. Even though we have to be very very diligent during the summer, with the seasons changing, don't FALL back into bad habits. (See what I did there?) May I suggest always an ibuprofen or two and some of these great helps from completely bare.

You can decide to do it yourself (I do for the smaller areas) or trust your waxing guru for the oh so fun bikini/brazilian and eyebrows. My girl Donna at Skinn Waxing is the best hands down waxer in Daytona Beach, or in all of the land for that matter. Whichever route you decide, be sure to run by Ulta or order Ulta online these great products for a pain free waxing experience.

NEW Wax on the Go-Go is a perfectly portable travel kit, complete with no heat, easy to use wax strips for face and bikini.





Don't Grow There moisturizes with Shea Butter and reduces hair growth and density for soft, smooth skin.



Not Feeling It will keep your skin cool and numb before and after waxing and shaving.



Ready Set Wax is your complete at-home hair removal arsenal for flawless results. This kit comes complete with custom shaped wax strips for face, body and bikini.



Ok, now that you have smooth skin, how about some smooth hair?


blowpro blow back time, anti-aging density spray mini has full spectrum UVA/UVB protection in the perfect, on the go travel size



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5-hour ENERGY® Yummification Results

Thanks to everyone who entered the 5-hour ENERGY contest. To remind you here, the folks at are 5-hour ENERGY® encouraged people to mix a 5-hour ENERGY® shot with an everyday beverage to create a yummy, enjoyable drink. They had a ton of entries and here is the results....cue drumroll!



First Place ($50,000 prize): “Pomelimelade” by Tim Merlau, Los Angeles, CA
This winning submission mixes a Pomegranate 5-hour ENERGY® shot with limeade, and then takes us on a musical journey through all that can be accomplished over several hours (spoiler alert:  it’s a lot).

Second Place ($30,000 prize): “Ramalamadingdong” by Mark Golembeski, Los Angeles, CA
The second place video helps us turn that 2:30 feeling frown upside down by mixing a 5-hour ENERGY® shot with lemonade.  This video has it all: a clown, a puppy, a guy in a tutu, and much more.

 
Third Place ($10,000 prize): “Arnold Power” by Zac Sheorn, Lugoff, SC
The third place winner reminds us that you don’t have to be good at sports, but mixing a Pink Lemonade 5-hour ENERGY® shot with decaffeinated iced tea helps keep you refreshed while practicing.  And practicing.

 

The winning videos (which you MUST see!) and recipes are posted here.
The 5-hour ENERGY® samples, gift card, and information have been provided by the makers of 5-hour ENERGY®.








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Three Ways To Will In Fall Even In Florida

I am on Facebook today, looking at my cousin, my aunt and my godchild at the NY City Ballet. I am insanely jealous, not only because I miss my family, but look at the outfits. I am sorry, is that a scarf? Tights? A wool skirt? Do they actually look chilly?
My god, I went to the Artisan Alley Event in Deland and almost died of heavation! It is still hitting ninety degrees on a daily basis.
So, as any good Florida girl waits for the 4 days of fall that may come sometime in November or so, I have to find someway to bring Fall to me:

Shopping for Fall 
When I was in NYC last September, I was walking along in Soho (this makes me sound cooler than I am) and I stumbled along Kismetry at a sidewalk fair near St. Anthony's. She had the line AngelRox and I am obsessed. I have bought THREE opera sleeves and I had an amazing brown cardigan. HAD. HAD. HAD. I have never lost anything in my life, and guess what-I think it walked away. So I sucked it up and bought a grey one and I wore it all last season. I love the cotton blend and the thumb holes. I will be buying online and so should you if you can't get to the Big Apple. Because they will be at the Bryant Square Holiday Market. And I won't be. Cue Crocodile Tears.




Drinking Your Tea It has come to my attention that I will be booking my trip to NYC after this blog post. Because, another thing I have done to will in Fall is to order some of David's Teas. You see, I went to NYC (DUH) in December last year for my birthday and we stayed in the West Village three doors down from this place called David's Tea. What is this you ask? Its like a crack store for tea lovers. It has added to the list of Ikea and H+M for me that I MUST touch everything and buy anything within its four walls. My husband said I spent more time in there than anywhere during our trip. They just released some Fall inspired teas. Get it!

Oh, Pumpkin! Of course, Fall means pumpkin of any kind! One of my favorite new pumpkin items is pretty magical. Thomas'® Pumpkin Spice English Muffins and bagels. These are limited edition so I urge you not to delay! Made with real pumpkin, spices and cinnamon, you'll love the comforting aroma of toasting pumpkin English Muffins or bagels in your kitchen. It smells like fall, even in Florida. Make sure you pair this with yummy butter and a good cream cheese. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and on the web, fair warning-don't go hungry! Where shall you find your pumpkin goodness? Go here and find out!

















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Ritz Fresh Stacks-For The Busy

After Megan's wedding, I have resumed to careful but not crazy wedding diet measures. It is important for me to eat healthy and not mindlessly eat. I find that I get so busy that I look up from my computer and its after 1p and I haven't had anything but my third cup of tea. Working from home is interesting like that-you don't have anyone to remind you in your office that it is time for lunch, unless you count my two cats who are always wanting more food in their bowl.  I have been relying on RITZ Crackers to help my snack cravings with new RITZ Fresh Stacks – a more convenient size of America’s favorite flaky, buttery cracker.

Of course, who doesn't love Ritz and their buttery awesomeness? This new packaging makes me just aimlessly eat the whole box. A little more than two servings (each RITZ Fresh Stacks package contains 13 crackers), RITZ Fresh Stacks is a versatile addition to any quick lunch and makes snacking quick and easy. Try the Original, Whole Wheat and Everything flavors for a great taste that both kids and adults will like.

If you get stuck how to make your Ritz, hop on over to their Pinterest boards. Check out Ritz on Facebook and share how RITZ Fresh Stacks snacking fun. Here is my favorite,
RITZ Honey Wheat crackers topped with slices of Granny Smith apples, brie cheese, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle some honey for extra sweet taste!


Lastly, here a compliment for you, courtesy of Ritz-you are welcome!



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Save the Date! Zephyrhills Open House!

Remember when I blogged about Zephyrhills and their Florida Favorites campaign? Join them as part of their 50th Anniversary celebration and see the donation presentation from our #FLFavorites efforts! 


Full details and RSVP link are here: bit.ly/ZephyrhillsOH.


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Fleming's 8,9,10: The New Late Night Happy Hour


Today, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar announced the launch of its new late-night happy hour, the 8 for $9 ’til 10 p.m. Featuring eight innovative food items and drinks for nine dollars Monday through Sunday. Items include the Prime Rib Empanadas and Savory Ahi Tuna Tacos among other mouthwatering options like:

·         Savory Ahi Tuna Tacos: Mini white corn tortillas, fresh ahi poke, Japanese wakamel radish-jicama slaw, creamy soy-lime aioli

·         Filet Mignon Flatbread: Danish blue and Monterey jack cheeses, red onion confit

·         Short Rib Empanadas: Tender short rib traditional latin pastry, sautéed peppers, onions and potato; creamy, fire-roasted poblano sauce

·         Lobster Lettuce Wraps:  North Atlantic lobster, crumbled bacon, crisp onion strings, radish-jicama slaw, creamy soy-lime aioli

·         Deconstructed Balvenie S’more: Decadent, molten callebaut chocolate, laced with Balvenie DoubleWood scotch whisky; served with artisanal marshmallows and graham crackers


Fleming’s will also offer eight wines and signature cocktails for nine dollars including:

·         Rioja: Palacios-Remondo La Montesa, Spain 2012

·         Prosecco: Mionetto, Italy, NV

·         Bourgogne: Jean-Claude Boisset, France, 2012

·         Bordeaux: Chateau de Parenchere, France, 2012

·         Spiced Mango Smash: Kraken Black Spiced Rum

·         Bourbon Peach Martini: Maker’s Mark Bourbon

·         Chocolate Lava Milkshake: Maker’s Mark Bourbon

·         Winter Chai Mule: SVEDKA Vanilla Vodka



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Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers with Woodwork Chardonnay

Weeknight dinners are tough! Yes, I know I don't have fifty two children to feed, but sometimes I look at up at 4p and go !@#$%^&!!! I have no plan for dinner. For someone who HATES peppers, I have taken quite a hankering to a new recipe:Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers. Originally from Blue Apron, I have made this recipe three times, I am obsessed. This is also a great recipe to will in fall as we are still enduring 90 degree temps in Florida. Trust me, this is an easy weeknight dinner to make!

Ingredients
½ Cup Long Grain White Rice
3 Cloves Garlic
1 Bunch Cilantro
1 Lime
1 Yellow Onion
2 Poblano Peppers
10 Ounces Ground Beef
3 Tablespoons Dried Currants
3 Tablespoons Roasted Pepitas
2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
2 Teaspoons Ground Cumin
¼ Cup Mexican Crema

Read full recipe here


It is a tad spicy though and I have an amazing pairing! Woodwork™ Chardonnay, new from Diageo Chateau & Estates. There is a nice fruity balance that takes the bite out of the spicy poblano.

Woodwork™ is the latest brand that celebrates the craft of winemaking with the introduction of three varietals meant to inspire and celebrate those who work hard to endlessly pursue their passions.

Each bottle reflects Winemaker Monica Belavic’s passions and pursuit, through continuous experimentation and refinement, to arrive at the very best batch of wine. With great care and attention to detail, high quality oak staves (a barrel alternative) have been selected to bring the influence of oak into each varietal’s distinct taste profile, creating a unique and delicious wine.  The oak influencer also allows the wine to pair beautifully with items cooked on the grill or over a fire.

The finest grapes were selected to create three Central Coast grown varietals delivering prominent oak influence including a 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Pinot Noir and 2013 Chardonnay.  The wines are available in stores nationwide and online at www.woodworkwines.com and sold at the SRP of $14.99.

Cheers!



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What It Is Like To Interview Me

This month, I was honored as a recipient of an Influential Women in Business for Volusia and Flagler County. My background is in radio and getting interviewed without it being a email question and answer format makes me physically sick.

Why you ask? Bet you never volunteered to fill out a police report for a stolen Spring Break Promotional Item and was in the same said paper the very next day with the title "Girl Reports 25 Foot Condom Stolen". This was a shining day in my daddy's eyes. Let me tell you. So, to say I have been grossly misinterpreted is an understatement.

Last year, I was nominated as well , but the picture looked like I had JAUNDICE, my name and business were MISSPELLED throughout and although I was honored, I just chalked it up to another the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away episode in my life.

So when the lovely Daytona Beach News Journal reporter Fatima called, I was sweating. She actually did a great, accurate job! Besides a little hard on myself cringing moments,  and a don't print that declarations-I think I sound like an alright chick!

I posted the article below from my business website with some sprinkles of bolded footnotes to set the record a little straighter, off the record-of course.


This year, Darlynn Tacinelli-Owner of Little Blog Dress Media was selected as one of 2014's Influential Women in Business in Volusia and Flagler County by the Volusia and Flagler Business Journal. This issue recognizes women in Volusia and Flagler counties who are making a difference professionally, either as business owners or executives and in the community either through volunteer work, service on local boards and/or supporting charitable causes. I wrote this so it is actually correct

  volusia fla
Darlynn Tacinelli
TITLE: Owner, Little Blog Dress Media, Ormond Beach

PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT: Director of social media, Black Crow Media A title of many I held before they sold it and the new asshat owners fired my ass after nineteen years. I wish she would have printed that *curtsy*

FIRST JOB: Fashion buyer for Belk department store, age 15 JUNIOR DEPARTMENT fashion buyer, big difference but it makes me feel like a teenage Anna Wintour so there is that! 

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: President-elect, Junior League of Daytona Beach,  a couple of other wonderful things and organizations I contribute to but this is my focus this year, and no one likes a bragger of a girl who has absolutely no idea how to sit on her hands.

FAMILY: Husband, Steve Tacinelli   My husband thanked me for not including the cats, although they were omitted in the part of the interview when I claimed that they worked with me in the accounting department.



Owner’s hobby leads to creation of social media firm

By FATIMA HUSSEIN

What started as a hobby eventually be­came a full-time job for Darlynn Tacinelli. Tacinelli, who owns and operates Little Blog Dress Media, started the Ormond Beach company as a blog for female NASCAR race fans who weren’t “conventional” race fans. This means that our friends work in the sport, we love it and own a bra and have a dentist. I asked her not to print that and she complied. 

“It really just started for fun between my girlfriends and I ,” Tacinelli said. “But we began to think about how we could make money off of the website,” adding that the concept of building a social media manage­ment business was born. Yes, Yes all factual.

Little Blog Dress provides social media set­up and management services for companies, as well as creating blogs and websites. “It really started at the right time because social media management wasn’t really pop­ular at the time,” Tacinelli said. Correct, check. 

A lifelong Ormond Beach resident, Taci­nelli said Little Blog Dress is modeled after the black dress Audrey Hepburn wore in the 1961 film, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Ooof the word logo could have helped this makes me sound a wee bit better. My logo was modeled after the movie, not my business.

 Little Blog Dress has been featured on national websites such as MSN Living and Jayski, an ESPN partner site, dedicated to NASCAR coverage. This makes me sound way more cooler than I am, I submit and they have picked me up about a dozen times. Still true tho!

 “I can’t believe this is my life. I’m so, so lucky,” she said. I must have uttered this at some point, because it is so very very true.    


Thanks Fatima, call me anytime you made me sound like a rockstar! 



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20th Anniversary of The Bruce Rossmeyer Ride for Children

I have been blessed to know the Rossmeyer family for a very very very long time. They are a wonderful charitable family that does so much for the Volusia County Community. This ride was founded, and now honors their wonderful patriarch who sadly passed away five years ago. Bruce was a great man, and I miss his gentle giant nature, he was a hoot to see advertising to! 

The Bruce Rossmeyer Ride for Children began as a small motorcycle ride 20 years ago.   Bruce Rossmeyer made the commitment to raise 1 million dollars for the Camp within a decade.   Thanks to partners, sponsors, participants and volunteers not only did the Ride bring in 1 million dollars by the 10th year, in the 10th year alone a record of $800,000 was raised. 

This is the 20th celebration of the Camp’s largest fundraiser, which has now raised over $5 million dollars.  This year, we pay tribute to the memory of Bruce Rossmeyer with this two day event that includes a dinner gala on Saturday October 4th, and the ride on Sunday October 5th when over 700 motorcyclists riding to Camp Boggy Creek for a day of fun, food and memories.  This year the event will include a few special l guests, Mr. Paul Yaffe of the History Channel show, Biker Battleground and Emmy nominated actor John Slattery of AMC’s Mad Men.

The mission of Camp Boggy Creek is to foster a spirit of joy by creating a free, safe and medically sound camp environment that enriches the lives of children with serious illnesses and their families.
Thanks to the Ride, Camp continues to serve children from throughout Florida, ages 7-16 who are dealing with serious illnesses.  At camp, children with sickle cell, hemophilia, heart disease, arthritis and many other illnesses reclaim their childhoods while making friends who understand their lives.  In addition to week long summer camps, Camp Boggy Creek provides family retreat weekends when the camper’s parents and siblings get to be part of the fun and friendships.   The mission of Camp Boggy Creek is to foster a spirit of joy by creating a free, safe and medically-sound camp environment that enriches the lives of children with serious illnesses and their families. 

Since our opening in 1996, over 62,000 children and their family members have come through our gates.  They never pay to attend thanks to donations, and events like the Bruce Rossmeyer Ride for Children.



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