My New Blog

Why Tallahassee?

I'm convinced Tallahassee is by far, one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family.  How do I know?  Well, as Johnny Cash says, "I've been everywhere, man!" 

I was born and raised here, but have had the opportunity and experience of living in Mississippi, Texas, California, and Oklahoma.  I've also visited every state in the U.S. and have been to over 30 countries during my time as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force and the airlines.  My experiences while living/traveling outside Tallahassee and my discussions with fellow crewmembers living throughout the U.S. have convinced me Tallahassee is THE place to live.

Why is Tallahassee so great?

--Our people:  Our people are some of the most friendly in the world!  Tallahassee is Florida, but with a Southern Charm and hospitality that is unmatched.  Unlike larger cities, Tallahassee residents will often greet you with a warm "Hello" and will likely strike up a friendly conversation in passing on the sidewalk or in a grocery store line.

--Our environment:  Tallahassee's majestic live oaks, rolling hills, pristine lakes, canopy roads, and colorful flowering trees/plants make it a unique, pleasant, and beautiful place to live.  Springtime in Tallahassee is especially wonderful with the blooming dogwoods and azaleas.  The Spring Time Tallahassee festivities are just around the corner!

--Our Schools:  Leon County's public schools are among the best in the state and country.  It's one of the few locations where you know your children will receive an excellent education and will learn in a safe, nurturing, and caring environment.  I am a product of the public school system here and was well prepared for the vigorous academic, physical, and military demands required at the U.S. Air Force Academy.  My 3 sons currently attend public schools here.  We've been absolutely thrilled with their education and experiences.

--Our Location:  We're mere minutes away from pristine lakes and forests.  We're also very close to the Gulf of Mexico and some of the world's finest beaches and salt water fishing. 

--Our Size:  Leon County has roughly 255,000 residents--so we're not so large that traffic is always snarled and everything is overcrowded yet, we're large enough to attract big time entertainers, singers, and sports events, such as the "7 Days of Opening Nights" performing arts program and the "Red Hills Horse Trials". 

--Our Sports/Activities:  Our Parks and Recreation Department was recently named as the BEST in the whole U.S.  I'm totally convinced it is THE BEST.  The programs for kids are UNMATCHED.  There is something for everyone--soccer, baseball, softball, flag football, tackle football, basketball, swimming, gymnastics, jogging trails, bicycle trails, etc.... One of my great thrills has been the opportunity to coach my sons' baseball and football teams.  The programs here provide a great environment to learn sportsmanship, teamwork, physical skills, and to establish life long friendships.  Game days are great social events where you'll get to know and visit with other parents and kids.  We've met some outstanding people over the years and have developed great friendships.

I'd be derelict if I didn't mention the big time collegiate sports we have here.  There's nothing like tailgating at Doak Campbell Stadium prior to an FSU football game or watching 80,000 screaming fans singing the FSU warchant and doing "the tomahawk chop" in unison!  I've also attended FSU basketball, baseball, and soccer games---they are fun and are a great way to spend time with the kids!  FAMU and TCC also have excellent athletic programs and are great venues to watch games.

--Our Economy:  Our economy is anchored by the state government and major universities (FSU, FAMU, TCC).  We are primarily a service oriented economy with little heavy industry.  Because of this, our economy is stable and positioned well for constant, predictable growth.  Our housing market is also more stable and has faired much better than most other markets in Florida.  Our home values in Tallahassee actually INCREASED or HELD THEIR VALUE last year according to the latest multiple listing service statistics!

As you can see, Tallahassee has a lot to offer.  We truly love living in Tallahassee and look forward to many great years ahead here!

Thanks for your time!

Mark Trafton