Daytona Beach Police Department 129 Valor Boulevard Daytona Beach, FL
Unveiled to the public on January 12, 2022 the beautiful Daytona Beach police deparment “Fallen Heroes” memorial honors Daytona Beach police officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.
This monument is a replacement monument for an earlier version that was unfortunately destroyed in a lawn maintenance accident. The Lohman family were instrumental in helping source the new monument.
After the dedication ceremony, State Attorney RJ Larizza, said, “We should remember the folks that have died in the line of duty. Not just to honor them, which is important, but also to remind the community of the dangerous nature of law enforcement. They put on that uniform every day and it could be the last day that they put it on. I think that’s an important thing to remember today.”
The front of the memorial features the names of the fallen heroes. The reverse side features A Police Officer’s Prayer.
I will be creating individual posts for each of the officers listed on the memorial and linking them through the listing below. If you have information on these officers you would like to share, please reach out. I would be honored to include your information. Photos are especially appreciated and you will receive recognition for your contribution.
Walk the Blue Line: Real Cops, True Stories written by James Patterson and Matt Eversmann. Click the image or THIS LINK to get your own copy!
In DeLand, FL, at the Historic Volusia County Courthouse, you may visit the Volusia Flagler Counties Law Enforcement Memorial. This memorial features names of law enforcement from the two counties who have perished in the line of duty. Please see my post about this memorial using THIS LINK. As stated above, I am putting together brief posts for these officers and any information or photos you can supply is gratefully appreciated. You will receive full recognition for your contribution.
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When we think of the American coffee shop waitress the image of Florence Jean Castleberry from the television show Alice may come to mind. Older, big hair, gum chewing, wise cracking. Candacy A. Taylor works on dispelling these stereotypes (well, at least to a degree), and provides us a real insight into these women, in her fascinating book, Counter Culture: The American Coffee Shop Waitress.
Taylor is an award winning author, photographer, and cultural documentarian. She has appeared in numerous media outlets and has worked with the Smithsonian, under Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. at Harvard University, and more.
The idea for this book came from Taylor’s own time working as a waitress in San Francisco. Sitting with her fellow waitresses discussing the trials, tribulations, and physical demands of serving the public and the other aspects of the job, she wondered how women twice her age dealt with job.
For “lifers,” as they are often called, what were their views on their job? What were their dreams? How did they deal with the physical demands of walking miles every shift, often with heavy trays for eight to ten hour shifts? How did they deal with aging in a field often seen as being for the young, uneducated, and often for the attractive? How did women in small coffee shops handle life?
Over a period of several years, Taylor logged over 26,000 miles criss crossing the country, interviewing and documenting almost sixty waitresses from more than forty restaurants, in various parts of the country. These women’s stories are interwoven with Taylor’s own photography to paint a portrait of women’s lives that many look down upon, or feel sorry for, or wonder what went wrong that they are still working, often well into their seventies.
What we discover is, nothing went wrong. These “lifers” have chosen their path. They don’t feel sorry for themselves. They don’t feel life has dealt them a bad hand to play. Many are quite financially secure, perhaps more secure than their patrons. The hours can be long and the work exhausting, but for many of these women it keeps them physically fit and mentally engaged. We discover a work ethic that many of their youthful counterparts do not understand. For many of these women they can’t imagine their life having turned out any other way.
In her work, Ms. Taylor covers major facets associated with waitressing, no matter age or where they work. While some topics, such as “refusing to retire” or “counter culture” may be most associated with coffee shop atmospheres, other topics such as the tricks of the trade, the importance of developing regular customers, the stigma of being a waitress, the generation gap, and T.I.P.S. (who knew this developed as an acronym for To Insure Prompt Service) are universal.
While the book does have a structure to it, the story is essentially the women themselves. They drive the story. We learn of their lives. We learn their struggles. We learn their joys and pains. They are human. They make mistakes. They enjoy successes. For the coffee shop waitress, they can form relationships that go beyond serving a customer on a regular basis. They become parts of small town community. They become de facto members of their regulars families. They become the restaurant they work at.
Without these “lifers” the culture of a coffee shop or diner is radically different. Change is not often welcome by regulars or the waitresses themselves. For the coffee shop regular, there is a comfort in having your favorite waitress knows your breakfast order and is placing it before you even take a seat. Attempts by management to make updates are often met with opposition, particularly if that involves favorite waitresses. Whoa to the manager who changes menus or employee work schedules. These women know their role so well, they have often turned down management roles in favor of the stability of their regular customers.
Taylor’s work is now more than a decade old. It would be interesting for her to attempt an updated look at coffee shop waitresses. The women who she interviewed have almost all gone to the great diner in the sky. How are current coffee shop waitresses in comparison to those of twenty years ago. In eating at the type of restaurant described in this book today, I can see many similarities. I would hardly be called a regular at any place, but the regulars are easy to pick out. However, I would be interested to see if these women consider themselves happy with their life. Would they call themselves financially stable as many in the book stated. How do they deal with the physical and emotional demands of the job.
Customer attitudes have changed. Financial realities have changed. Businesses and management goals have changed. Technology has changed. How have waitresses changed in reaction.
This book is highly recommended for a look at a cultural institution, that while evolving, is still in many ways the same as it was decades ago.
Click the image, or THIS LINK to support this site through Buy Me A Coffee. Your support helps pay for website fees and maintenance, research fees for blog and book writing, photo usage and rights fees, and other associated costs. And maybe, it will go to buying a bag of coffee to help keep me focused on the research topic at hand.
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Are you searching for the best events and festivals in Florida in October 2024? Thanks for visiting. Please use the links below to find fun events for all ages.
Florida hosts some amazing events and festivals. Each month I hope to take a look at a dozen or so of these in hopes of bringing you fun, exciting, and unexpected ways to enjoy our state.
If you have an event or know of one coming up that you feel should be highlighted, please drop me a line with as much information as you can, including a website. I’ll be glad to include your suggestions in future posts. Maybe we can work together and put together a promotional post for your event.
St. Stefanos’ Super Greek Festival is a 3-day indoor/outdoor joyous; family friendly, authentic celebration of Greek Food, Culture, Dance and Traditions held every year in St. Petersburg, Florida! At our festival, all are welcome with open arms, and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate. Everything we do is intended to help ignite your inner “Kefi”, which describes the Greek spirits of joy, passion, euphoria and enthusiasm all in one! We are always a rain or shine event.
$3 daily admission, under 10 are free. Free parking. Food, activities, and vendor tables may have costs associated with them.
Calling all ye mateys, fair maidens and swashbucklers of all ages to Panama City Beach for the annual Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest.
This year’s free celebration sets sail October 11-13. Enjoy action-packed weekend of fireworks, live mermaid shows, a fire circus, parades, a treasure drop, Cirque Adventure and more. Travel back in time with our Renaissance addition, where gentry and squires alike can experience an enchanted marketplace complete with sword and whip demonstrations, pirates pub, live entertainment & more!
Experience the most extraordinary Fall Festival of the year! Pumpkin Patch, Pumpkin Painting, Build Your Own Scarecrow, Pony Rides, Face Painting, Pharaohs Wildlife Kingdom, Costume Contest, Children’s Games with prizes, Children’s make and take Arts and Crafts, Live Entertainment, Vendors, Food Trucks, Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Blacksmith, Model Trains, Gigi the Stiltwalking Scarecrow (formerly a Ringling Brother’s Clown), photo ops, ZHS FFA Petting Zoo, Pasco Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, all museum buildings open and more.
$10 for adults, $5 for children. Under 5 are admitted free. Free parking. Food and some of the activities require separate payment.
En plein air is a French expression meaning “in the open air,” and refers to the act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in full view. Plein air artists capture the spirit and essence of a landscape or subject by incorporating natural light, color, and movement into their works.
Artists have long painted outdoors, but in the mid-1800s painting landscapes and other scenes on location finally became practical due to two important inventions: paints in tubes and the box easel.
What is the New Smyrna Beach Plein Air Paint Out? This fabulous five-day event invites you to Discover Nature Through Art and celebrates everything that makes our seaside community unique. With a goal of raising valuable funds for two local nonprofits, the NSB Paint Out brings to light the important work of Marine Discovery Center and Artists’ Workshop of New Smyrna Beach.
Events are held throughout New Smyrna Beach during the event. Check the schedule for dates, times, and locations. Most events are free to attend.
Biketoberfest®celebrates a full-throttle lifestyle born on two wheels. Motorcycle enthusiasts come together during the four-day rally each year to enjoy beautiful Florida weather, live music, motorcycle racing at Daytona International Speedway, and miles of scenic rides along famous A1A, historic Main Street or the Scenic Loop. Come experience the Southeast’s best motorcycle rally featuring motorcycle shows, custom bike builds and hundreds of the industry’s top vendors throughout Daytona Beach. All roads lead to this rally.
Biketoberfest® is a collection of activities that take place at venues and businesses in cities throughout Volusia County and beyond.
Prices vary by event and venue. People watching is free!
Bonnet Springs Park is excited to announce our first food and beverage festival, Central Florida Food Fest! This event features exclusive dishes from Polk County restaurants, curated drink pairings, live entertainment, a marketplace, and special offers!
Come hungry and ready to make a difference at Central Florida Food Fest – where good food, great drinks, and a worthy cause combine in delicious harmony.
Tickets start at a whopping $85.
Be advised THIS EVENT IS NOT FAMILY OR PET FRIENDLY. 18+ only. NO REFUNDS, this event is rain or shine.
Flights, hotels, attractions, and rental cars, find it all at the best prices using Trip.com. Click the link or use the widget to start creating the vacation of a lifetime.
Join us October 19th & 20th at the Fall Art & Craft Fair!
The Historic Cocoa Village becomes one of Florida’s largest outdoor markets, lined with 200+ artists and crafters displaying their handmade pieces. Whether a stunning oil painting or a unique pair of wire-wrapped earrings, there’s something for everyone in Cocoa Village!
Bring your kids, tweens, or teens to the Taylor Park playground where we are hosting a FREE, all-day art workshop!
Food trucks, live music, and libations make it easy to stay all day!
Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm Free parking, free entry, pet friendly.
The NAS Jax Air Show, Birthplace of the Blue Angels, will be held October 19 & 20, 2024 aboard NAS Jacksonville. This event is open to the public and offers free admission and parking, no tickets are required to attend. All spectators over the age of 18 must present a physical photo ID to gain access to this year’s air show.
The gates open at 9 am and the show will begin at 11 am.
At the NAS Jax Air Show you will witness thrills like never before from a variety of military and civilian demonstrations. The grand finale will be the Navy’s flight demonstration team, The Blue Angels, who will begin at 3 pm.
While you are at the show, enjoy military and civilian aircraft displays, shop at novelty, food and beverage booths, or head to the Kids Zone for games and activities for all ages. While there will be ATMs onsite, it is highly recommended that you bring cash with you. Special seating areas that are available for purchase on the day of and the Kids Zone will be cash only. For more info on seating, visit the “Seating” tab.
Join us at Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort for our annual Rock ‘N’ Brews BBQ Competition on October 24-26th. For pitmasters and cook teams this weekend will include FBA Sanctioned BBQ contest with Professional and Backyard Divisions, Kids Cook-off, Ancillary Contest, Bonfire Party, and more! For those who want to cheer on their favorite teams, we will have BBQ Vendors, a Craft Fair on Saturday, and Live Music on the Riverfront from local bands on Friday and Saturday for you to enjoy. Proceeds for the event will be raised for the Freedom Tour for mobile relief for those in need in Polk County.
This incredible event features more than crafts. Here you will find live music, beer and wine tastings, delicious food, kids art areas, face painting and much more. It’s a great family outing.
The event is free but there are costs for parking, food, drinks, etc. This is a leashed pet friendly event, however pet owners are cautioned the streets will be extremely busy and this might upset your dog. Shuttle buses will operate from several parking areas.
The downtown streets come alive with more than 350 of the best exhibitors in the country ready to show and sell their fine art and fun crafts at this annual event. Festival food, music, beer, wine, cocktails and some special guest appearances will round out the event
To conclude, I want to thank you for reading my listing of the best events and festivals in Florida in October 2024. Check back every month otherwise you might miss out on a great event you did not know about. If you are sponsoring or hosting an upcoming event, drop me a line so I can include it. Maybe we can work together on a blog post and social media posts to promote the event. Let’s hear your ideas.
Click the image to support this site through Buy Me A Coffee. Your support helps pay for website fees and maintenance, research fees for blog and book writing, photo usage and rights fees, and other associated costs. And maybe, it will go to buying a bag of coffee to help keep me focused on the research topic at hand.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions
Find tickets to the hottest NFL games using TicketNetwork. Here you can safely purchase tickets, knowing you have scouted for the best seats at the best prices.
Find tickets to the hottest NFL games using TicketNetwork. Here you can safely purchase tickets, knowing you have scouted for the best seats at the best prices.
Multiple markers honoring local soldiers who lost their lives during war years are set beautifully, outside the museum building. The area is open to the public. This particular marker honors those who gave their lives during wars in the Middle East in the years 1990-2014 and is dated 2015. The marker features a large eagle at the top.
This marker is part of the larger display featuring other plaques honoring lost service members from other conflicts. Be sure to view all the other plaques and reflect on the service these soldiers provided.
I will be creating posts for the soldiers lost and commemorated on these plaques. If you have information on these individuals, or photos you are willing to share, I will gladly add them to the individual postings. You will receive acknowledgement of your contribution to this project.
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The marker reads
THE MIDDLE EAST 1990-2014
TO HONOR THE PATRIOTS OF
WEST VOLUSIA COUNTY
WHO SERVED IN IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN, AND THE MIDDLE EAST
& TO REMEMBER THOSE WHO MADE THE SUPREME SACRIFICE
If the soldiers name shows a hyperlink, I have created an individual page for them. Please give those pages a read. If you have information to add about the soldier, their life, their service, or images, please contact me. I would be honored to share your information. You will receive acknowledgement for your participation in this project.
I invite you to read my post about the Volusia Flagler Law Enforcement Memorial, located only a short distance from this memorial in downtown DeLand. The law enforcement memorial honors officers from Volusia and Flagler counties who lost their lives while on duty.
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Are you searching for the best events and festivals in Florida in September 2024? Thanks for visiting. Please use the links below to find fun events for all ages.
Florida hosts some amazing events and festivals. Each month I hope to take a look at a dozen or so of these in hopes of bringing you fun, exciting, and unexpected ways to enjoy our state.
If you have an event or know of one coming up that you feel should be highlighted, please drop me a line with as much information as you can, including a website. I’ll be glad to include your suggestions in future posts.
The Emerald Coast Beer Festival is back for its 28th year! Pensacola’s largest and oldest craft beer tasting event. This year’s craft beer festival will be held on September 6th, 2024 at Seville Quarter in Pensacola, Florida. The beer fest will feature breweries all around the Gulf Coast area, including 50+ microbreweries and another 50-100 represented by their distributors. In addition to the microbreweries, there will be 10+ homebrew clubs providing beer.
VIP Admission gets early access at 5:00pm, and General Admission starts at 5:30pm. The festival will also feature live music, food trucks, and a variety of other activities.
This is the perfect opportunity to sample some of the best beers from the Emerald Coast and beyond. With over 200 craft beers to choose from, you’re sure to find something you love. So come out and enjoy the festivities!
$30 general admission, $75 VIP tickets in advance. $40 and $100 day of the event.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event that brings together the best in food, music, and community. Whether you’re a blues aficionado or just looking for a great day out, the Breaking News Blues, Burgers, and BBQ Festival has something for everyone.
Check the website for performers and the schedule.
2024 Florida Fin Fest presented by Natural Life is a FREE two-day Ocean Conservation, Education, and Music Festival happening in Jacksonville Beach, FL on September 13th & 14th, 2024. VIP ticket options are available for purchase.
See artists like St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Paco Versailles, Stop Light Observations, Vincent Antone, Prizilla, Faze Wave and more!
Meet stars from Star Trek, X-Files, Pirates of the Caribbean, and many more. Learn about the voices behind your favorite shows. Come dressed in costume and participate in the cosplay. Enjoy the gaming.
Check the website for tickets and prices. There are multiple options as is common for these type events. If you are staying over, be sure to look at the special room rates offered at the World Golf Village.
The initial lineup for Punk In The Park Orlando includes punk rock legends Alkaline Trio, The Vandals, Dead Kennedys, Black Flag, T.S.O.L., Down By Law, Swingin’ Utters, and Dwarves, with more to be announced. The festival will feature band performances on two stages, with no overlapping set times.
In addition to a day full of music, festival attendees 21+ can enjoy tastings of delicious craft beers and other craft beverages, including award-winning local and regional favorites with the added tasting pass ticket.
Tickets start at $59. VIP tickets start at $149. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Bring the whole family for Chihuahua races, a Domino tournament, a kids’ zone, and more. It’s an evening that unites residents, local businesses, and visitors in a celebration of music, dance, and delicious food. Immerse yourself in the lively Latin-inspired ambiance with colorful decorations, sparkling lights, and captivating music. Savor a wide variety of local food and drinks, and explore the offerings of diverse vendors.
Sips and Salsa fosters a sense of community, offering networking opportunities and strengthening bonds. It’s a night of celebration, bringing people together to enjoy South Lake’s rich diversity.
Musicians from Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and the U.S. come together in a FREE concert of Latin Jazz at the BayCare Sound!
Check the website for performers and to see how to reserve your admission. Did we mention FREE!
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One of Destin’s most celebrated traditions, the Destin Seafood Festival kicks off the Destin Fishing Rodeo that extends the entire month of October. The event was started in 1978 by the Destin Charter Boat Association Women’s Auxiliary. While the festival has grown into its new home on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, the Destin Seafood Festival remains the primary fundraiser for the Destin Charter Boat Association.
Admission to the festival is free and more than 60,000 are anticipated over three days. VIP tickets, which include special chef prepared dishes, private music stage, separate restroom facilities, cash bar, and more, are available at $75. Purchase tickets online.
SEAFOOD, SEAFOOD, and more SEAFOOD. From local restaurants and caterers to food trucks and cart vendors. Delicious food will be everywhere. Don’t like seafood, well don’t miss out as there are foods for the landlubber as well.
In addition, don’t miss the arts and crafts vendors, commercial vendors, and promotional opportunities. From paintings to ceramics, clothing, metal work, gourmet goods, and more, you will find it on display and ready for your purchase.
Want live music. The Pensacola Seafood Festival has you covered and the lineup will be posted soon. The children’s area will feature face painting, crafts, games, and more.
Admission is free. There may be charges for parking at some lots. Food is available for purchase. This event is NOT PET FRIENDLY! The event is rain or shine.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Latin cinema at the Tampa Bay Latin International Film Festival, a thrilling two-day event at Creative Pinellas celebrating the rich tapestry of films inspired by Latin culture. Join us in Largo for an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with captivating stories, compelling performances, and cultural exploration.
PLEASE CONFIRM THIS DATE BEFORE ATTENDING. I HAVE SEEN CONFLICTING DATES OF SEPTEMBER 14 AND SEPTEMBER 28.
Anime, gaming, voice actors, celebrity appearances, and more. If you are into anime, this is the event for you.
$25 for Saturday, $20 for Sunday, weekend pass is $40. VIP passes are $125 for two days admission plus more. Check the website for details.
Need tickets? Visit Ticketnetwork, or click in the box above and find tickets to the best events at great prices!
To conclude, I want to thank you for reading my listing of the best events and festivals in Florida in September 2024. Check back every month otherwise you might miss out on a great event you did not know about. If you are sponsoring or hosting an upcoming event, drop me a line so I can include it. Maybe we can work together on a blog post and social media posts to promote the event. Let’s hear your ideas.
Click the image to support this site through Buy Me A Coffee. Your support helps pay for website fees and maintenance, research fees for blog and book writing, photo usage and rights fees, and other associated costs. And maybe, it will go to buying a bag of coffee to help keep me focused on the research topic at hand.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions
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Thank you to Arcadia Publishing for providing a complimentary review copy of this book. This review is completely independent of their generosity.
The Siege of Vicksburg is usually thought of as the forgotten relative of the Battle of Gettysburg. Gettysburg had all the glamour, including Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Three days worth of fighting and a visit later in 1863 from President Abraham Lincoln, and his few appropriate remarks, have forever sealed Gettysburg as the pivotal, turning point of the American Civil War.
Countering this eastern centric interpretation are those who feel that the leadership of Ulysses S. Grant, the siege of Vicksburg, and ultimately taking control of the entire Mississippi River are the events that truly turned the war in the favor of the Union.
No matter your interpretation of the events of June and July 1863, there can be no doubt that actions at Vicksburg played a crucial role in the outcome of the war over the remaining two years. Readers wanting to know everything there is to know about the Siege of Vicksburg (or as close as you can get to everything) are referred to the work of Civil War scholar Timothy B. Smith.
The Book Itself
Elizabeth Hoxie Joyner is taking us on a visual tour of Vicksburg National Cemetery. This is not meant to be a history of the siege, though you will learn a bit in the short chapter introductions.
It is important to remember that this is Vicksburg NATIONAL Cemetery and contains burials from not only the Civil War but from other engagements. Chapters include
Establishment of Vicksburg National Cemetery: Creation of a Lasting Tribute
The Drum Beat and the Cannon Roared: Mexican War and Civil War Soldiers
Duty, Honor, Country: Spanish-American War through Korean War
Remembered with Honor and Respect: Vietnam War 1955-1975
Vicksburg National Cemetery Superintendents: Guardians of the Hallowed Ground
The images are heavy on headstones as might be anticipated. Readers will also find images of soldiers, nurses, cemetery landscapes, battlefield action, ships that men might have served on, military honors, and more. There are modern and vintage photos with period engravings sprinkled throughout.
The author is a retired Museum Curator at Vicksburg National Military Park. Ms. Joyner well prepared to have put together a book such as this.
Resources
For those wishing to learn more about Vicksburg National Military Park, please use THIS LINK.
Readers can find a listing of over 5,000 burials at Vicksburg National Cemetery by visiting FINDAGRAVE. While more than 17,000 are interred here, the vast majority from the Civil War era were unable to be identified. Those considered “famous” by Findagrave standards include Embury Dufree Osband, a brevet brigadier general, and a cenotaph recognizing congressman Robert Blair Campbell, who is buried in London.
To learn more about the National Cemetery Administration, find a listing of national cemeteries, and to apply online for interment in a national cemetery, please use THIS LINK.
Final Thoughts
For those interested in cemetery history, national cemeteries, or the Siege of Vicksburg, this is a recommended title. A reader can skim or read this book in any order. The captions are short, in keeping with the series, allowing readers who only have a few minutes to pick this up and not worry about time.
Arcadia books have increased in price over the last several years. They still offer a good value for the casual reader and they often make excellent souvenirs or keepsakes from a visit.
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Thank you for taking time to read my restaurant review of Voo la Voo Cafe.
Voo la Voo Cafe 829 Canal Street New Smyrna Beach, FL 954-310-7293
New restaurants opening in New Smyrna Beach are almost a dime a dozen. Everywhere you look, something new is opening, many with an old, tired, theme and really offering nothing new for the diner. That’s why there were hopes for Voo la Voo Cafe, which opened just a couple of months ago in the old Auntie’s Soul Food Kitchen building on West Canal Street.
New Smyrna Beach didn’t have a French style restaurant (at least to my knowledge) until Voo la Voo opened. Owner Sylvie Le Nouail recalls making crepes from the age of six or seven. She and her family would make thirty or forty at dinner, having any leftovers the next morning.
The restaurant entrance is at the rear of the building and not facing Canal Street. Notice the grill on the right hand side of the image.
My wife and I ate there on a Sunday afternoon shortly after they opened. Not so close to opening that the bugs couldn’t be worked out, though maybe they needed a bit more time. The first thing we noticed is the entry is not the most obvious. It is at the back of the building, near the sign advertising barbecue ribs, an item not in keeping with the menu. Can you order them inside, is this for take away only, and how much are they? These are questions I was unable to answer.
The Restaurant and First Impressions
I noticed four things immediately upon entering the restaurant. The first was the heat. I don’t know if the air conditioning was not working, was set too high, or just couldn’t keep up, but the building was extremely warm. The second was that it was very loud inside. Most restaurants in New Smyrna Beach seem to have this issue to be perfectly honest. The large influx of new residents do not seem to eat at home. Good for restaurant owners and workers!
This is the entry to the restaurant. Cash register, dessert area, food pick up on the right, and the entry door is behind the photographer.
The third issue was the cramped quarters at the front entry. If you will notice in the photo, the food pick up window is right at the register area and the entry door is right behind where the photo was taken. This could easily become a bottleneck of servers, bussers, and guests. The final immediate takeaway for me was that I just didn’t sense this to be a French restaurant.
Everything was neat and clean and there were no kitchen smells which can sometimes take over a restaurant. It appear there is an outdoor seating area, though with the Florida heat and regular threat of rain, this is not a great summer option. It might be nice in the evening if there aren’t too many mosquitoes. I was unable to determine if the outdoor area is dog friendly. If so, consider that a big win in my view.
Service
We waited several minutes to be seated. There was no extended wait for a table. What was more concerning is that the limited staff seemed kind of flustered and there appeared to be no standard greeting. A host or hostess did not welcome us, but rather, our server ended up seating us.
It took a while for our server to get back to us and in the mean time, another table decided they had waited long enough and left, leaving money on the table for their drinks, but having never ordered food. In the server’s defense, he seemed to be covering more tables than he should have been and he seemed a bit overwhelmed by everything.
The restaurant menu.
We made our selections and were ready to order when the server returned. For me, the menu was a bit light on options. I wasn’t in the mood for sweet, and to be honest I am not a salmon or mushroom fan. I went basic and ordered the croque monsieur. My wife had an omelet.
Note: the menu image shown above was from our visit but differs from the menu shown online.
Spinach, feta, tomato omeletteCroque Monsieur
The Food
What you see in the images is what you get. The presentation is just OK. Mine tasted OK. It was good but it wasn’t the best ham and cheese I’ve ever had and for the price I was underwhelmed. The little side salad I could have done without to be honest. I would have rather had a bag of chips. My wife seemed to feel about the same on her meal. It was OK but nothing special.
We passed on dessert, which should have been considered a crime, however, we just weren’t feeling it after the meal and seeing the options at the front entry.
The Bill
Look, eating out anywhere is expensive, I get it. Our bill for the two entrees shown above, two unsweetened teas (at $4.50 each we would never make that mistake again), taxes, and tip, was pushing $50. For lunch, $50 is really getting up there.
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Final Thoughts
New Smyrna Beach is having an explosion of both population and restaurant options. Voo la Voo Cafe is currently unique in their offerings and poised to take advantage of this opportunity.
There are a limited number of tables so good food and service should be expected. From our visit, both need a bit of improvement. While new to the area, the owners are far from new to the restaurant industry. Their experience should allow them to right the ship, so to speak.
Would I go back? Maybe, if we were meeting friends for lunch and that’s where they really wanted to go. I don’t think I would go for dinner. There are other options in New Smyrna Beach that I personally would prefer.
Please consider reading my other restaurant reviews by clicking THIS LINK.
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Are you searching for the best events and festivals in Florida in July 2024? Thanks for visiting. Please use the links below to find fun events for all ages.
Florida hosts some amazing events and festivals. Each month I hope to take a look at a dozen or so of these in hopes of bringing you fun, exciting, and unexpected ways to enjoy our state.
If you have an event or know of one coming up that you feel should be highlighted, please drop me a line with as much information as you can, including a website. I’ll be glad to include your suggestions in future posts.
2024 is shaping up to be the best Key Lime Festival yet. We’re pleased to offer a full 5 days of culinary events for every taste, including favorites from past years like the Key Lime Cocktail Sip & Stroll and Key Lime Pie Hop and new favorites for Key Lime lovers! We’ve also added a few intimate culinary events for our VIP Key Lime lovers!
Like other food challenges on Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, the NSB Bbq Challenge guests will use their tasting passports to visit the host sites and taste sample sized bbq portions prepared in multiple different ways like chicken, beef, pork, seafood. Tasting passports and maps picked up at the Welcome corner of S. Cooper Street and Flagler Avenue on the day of the event. Passports will be for sale on the day of the event starting at 1230 pm however, we strongly suggest pre-ordering your passport on Eventbrite as WE WILL SELL OUT!
Tickets available in advance using the link provided. Tickets are $20 plus service charge.
We are proud to present for the third consecutive year the Orlando Tiki Fest 2024 with great celebrities from the industry, where we will have tastings of Rum, and other spirits, including emerging experiences Master Classes, as well as the most important cocktail competition at the national level “Tiki League USA”, heading to the Grand Final of the Latin American Cocktail Championship (LACC) and for the first time more than 20 countries compete for the great BARTENDERS LATAM USA CUP 2024 with great prizes.
Buy your tickets online, starting at $14.99.
Mango FestivalJuly 13 and 14 Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden in Coral Gables
Make your mango dreams come true at the 2024 edition of Fairchild Garden’s annual Mango Festival. This highly-anticipated, two-day mango fest showcases countless varieties of the succulent fruit as well as an exciting lineup of events and activities that include cooking demos, mango tastings, signature mango brunch, mango lectures, live music, lawn games and more. Food options abound with refreshing mango smoothies, an assortment of food vendors featuring mango-based menus and specialty mango cocktails. If you’d like to grow your own mangos, mango seedlings will also be available for purchase.
The festival is slated to run over the weekend from Saturday, July 13 through Sunday, July 14. Tickets for the Mango brunch, mango tasting, mango smoothie, mango cocktail flight and La Tropical Beer tasting must be purchased separately in addition to festival admission.new sTickets are about $25 per adult. Discounts for seniors and children.
While in the Miami area, be sure to take a visit to the Little Havana area. This incredible area is filled with music, food, history, and culture of all types. To make the most of your time, take a 2.5 hour guided walking tour. From the Bay of Pigs to Santeria to the story of cigar making to the famous chess players you see and hear it. Get recommendations on where to eat and avoid the average, while enjoying traditional Cuban fare. Click the link for details and to reserve your tour.
Hosted by the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa, Florida, Ballroom Bluesfest is a two-day, indoor festival that includes all-day LIVE blues from your favorite national artists! Also, featuring VIP reserved and reserved seating, full liquor bar, food packages, secured VIP car and motorcycle parking, optional overnight accommodations, and no need to worry about the weather!
Featuring acts such as Pat Travers, The Robby King Band, Solomon Hicks, The Boneshakers, and many more, this is an event any blues fan will want to attend.
Join us at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum on July 13th for Loxahatchee River Heritage Day, a unique event designed for adults to explore and celebrate the rich history and natural beauty of the Loxahatchee River region.
Meet local history authors and representatives from various historical societies and museums at our vendor booths!
Admission to the lighthouse looks to be $12 with a couple of discount programs for seniors, children, and veterans.
Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, writers, anglers, and fans of the late author’s work are to gather in Key West Tuesday through Sunday, July 16-21, 2024, for the annual Hemingway Days celebration. The festival honors the legacy of the American literary giant who lived and wrote on the island for most of the 1930s.
Hemingway Days events take place throughout Key West.
Lake Placid, Florida and the surrounding Sebring area are rich with natural beauty, excellent growing conditions, and talented people. While caladiums are the heart of our popular Caladium Festival, the event also highlights our creative community as well as our local heritage and culture.
In addition to caladiums, find a car & bike show, floral arrangement competition, art & craft booths, food, entertainment, and bus tours. The event looks to be free but there is a charge for the bus tours.
They advise not bringing your pet due to the July heat in Florida. The hot pavement can become dangerous for little paws.
To conclude, I want to thank you for reading my listing of the best events and festivals in Florida in July 2024. Check back every month otherwise you might miss out on a great event you did not know about. If you are sponsoring or hosting an upcoming event, drop me a line so I can include it. Maybe we can work together on a blog post and social media posts to promote the event. Let’s hear your ideas.
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How to clean your Chemex? This is a question that all lovers of the pour over coffee brewer ask themselves on a regular basis. Find the simple answers below.
The Chemex is a staple in the world of third-wave coffee. The brewer works using the pour over method of extraction. Ground coffee is placed into a folded filter and water is poured over the grounds. Water pours through the grounds and filter, into the glass Chemex carafe, allowing for a smooth blend that won’t have the grit of coffee grounds as can happen with extraction methods such as the French Press.
Part of the appeal of the Chemex is the ease of use. That is not to say there isn’t a learning curve in order to get the best brew, there is. And it can be lengthy. Grind size, the coffee bean itself, bloom time, water pour, and more all play into the final cup you brew.
The Chemex is made from non-porous Borosilicate glass which will not absorb odors or chemical residues. The removeable wooden collar makes for easy and secure handling of the brewer when pouring your cup.
Design Details
Small details help make the Chemex continue to be a stand out in the world of specialty coffee brewing even after more than 80 years. First, is no doubt the look. This is a sharp looking appliance that when sitting on your counter will draw attention. Invented in 1941 by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm, a chemist who in his career obtained more than 300 patents, the Chemex design is so unique, and was so forward thinking at the time, a Chemex brewer is included in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.
Second is the prior mentioned removeable wooden collar with rawhide tie. This collar is removable for cleaning purposes and is easy to replace. The bottom of the collar is an indicator of a full carafe. The pour spout provides air access, allowing for easy water flow through the filter, but also for an easy and safe pouring experience for the user. The small “belly button” located under the pour spout is a half-full marker.
The Chemex is available in multiple cup sizes, with the 6 and 8 cup variety being most popular. Cup size is measured at 5 ounces. If you purchase a Chemex, be sure to purchase the correct type filter. Regular batch coffee filters will not work and you will end up with a terrible cup of coffee and probably a mess when you try to pour.
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How to Clean Your Chemex
Based upon your usage you may need a more targeted and thorough cleaning than if you just occasionally use this brewing method.
The easiest cleaning methods are quite simple. The first step is to remove the wooden collar from the glass carafe. Simply untie the leather cord and the two pieces of wood will release. You may want to pay attention to how this is originally put together so you can quickly replace the pieces after cleaning. Once you do it a time or two, you’ll be a pro at it.
The first method is you can put the glass carafe in the dishwasher. Mine doesn’t really fit very well to be honest and is too tall to stand straight up. I worry about it knocking in to other dishes and cracking so this isn’t a method I use that often or personally recommend.
The second easy method involves simply filling the carafe with a few drops of unscented dish soap and water. Be sure to use unscented soap. While the carafe itself will not absorb the odor of the soap, if you don’t completely remove the residue, you will end up with a soapy taste in your cup. Nobody wants to spend five minutes or more making what should be a delicious cup of coffee, only to get a mouthful of soap. Anyway, mix the soap with water and swirl around so that the soap reaches as much of the glass as possible.
You can use a bottle brush or kitchen scrub brush to try and wipe down the inner walls, making sure the soap reaches everywhere. Pour out the mixture and give a thorough rinsing, making sure no soap bubbles still appear in the water. Turn it upside down on a kitchen towel and allow the carafe air dry. It will be ready for the next use in no time.
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When Your Chemex Needs a More Thorough Cleaning
So you regularly clean your Chemex and keep it as nice as hand washing allows. It may still develop some scaling and the glass may look a bit cloudy after considerable use. The oils from the coffee may be building up on the interior walls despite your best efforts. It happens over time. Depending upon the water you use, there may be mineral deposits that are left behind during the brewing or cleaning process. Again, it happens over time.
How do you remove this scale buildup from inside a carafe that is difficult to reach? This is again, a quite simple process.
The Deep Cleaning Process
The supply list is short.
White Vinegar
Warm Water
A bottle brush or kitchen scrub brush
Unscented dish soap
When your carafe is cool, remove the wooden collar and safely store for reattachment.
Fill the carafe to the top rim with equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Let the full carafe sit for a few hours, or even overnight. The glass will be fine and won’t absorb the vinegar odor. If the outside of the carafe is a bit dirty, particularly the area where the wooden collar sits, give it a quick scrub with the vinegar and water mixture.
When you are ready, pour out the vinegar and water mixture. Give the carafe a thorough rinse with running water to remove all the vinegar. Give it a good cleaning as you regularly do with unscented dish soap and warm water. Make sure to get the spout area where the vinegar mixture could easily be sitting. Allow the carafe to air dry. Next morning, give it a good sniff to make sure you have removed all the vinegar and soap residue, attach the collar, and you are ready to brew a delicious cup or two of your favorite coffee.
Chemex Brand Cleaning Products
I would be remiss to not mention that Chemex offers its own line of cleaning products including a brush and coffeemaker cleaning solution. Both are available on the Chemex website under the accessories tab. Normally I would refer you to Amazon, however these two products are cheaper directly from Chemex at the time of writing.
So there you have it, simple, easy, and effective ways to clean your Chemex coffee brewer. Using these simple methods, your Chemex brewer should provide you with years of delicious coffee.
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This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions.
Unveiled to the public on January 12, 2022 the beautiful Daytona Beach police deparment “Fallen Heroes” memorial honors Daytona Beach police officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.
Show your support for fallen law enforcement officers with this shirt from Flagshirt.
Taylor, Candacy A. 
October
What is the Chemex?
