Paula and Brian Simpler during their Seaside Wedding in 1994.
Freeport native Paula Simpler has been working for the Seaside Community Development Corp. for 24 years, since she was hired on the spot for the accounting office. In her role as administrative services manager, Simpler manages the payroll and benefits for Seaside Community Development Corp., Seaside Associated Stores, Beachside Linen and Seaside Community Realty.
But in her spare time, she’s likely to be found freshwater fishing in her kayak for red fish in the bay, or in a deer stand waiting patiently for a nice buck to come along. She, her husband Brian and 15-year-old son Dalton consider spending time outdoors their favorite family pastime. Dalton also plays football and baseball for Freeport High School and she enjoys cheering him on.
Simpler, who celebrated 20 years of marriage in June, married Brian
at Seaside’s Tupelo Gazebo in front of 75 guests, who celebrated the couple with a reception in the Seaside Meeting Hall. “Back then, it was much more quiet,” she says. “It’s grown so much since then.”
Simpler and her family enjoy hunting and fishing locally.
Paula’s Tomato
Gravy with Venison
For a hearty breakfast of biscuits and gravy, Paula’s tomato gravy with venison is a real crowd pleaser for the hunters in her family.
Recipe:
Cut deer back strap into small pieces. Combine salt, pepper and flour in a bowl and coat the meat. In a heavy skillet, heat oil and fry the meat. Remove meat from skillet, keeping pan drippings.
In the same skillet, blend 3 tablespoons flour with the drippings, stirring constantly, scraping cooked juices on the bottom of the pan until bubbly. Add salt, pepper and diced tomatoes and continue cooking over medium heat until the gravy thickens and bubbles.