Congrats Juan and Shoady

A little more than five years ago, I met a bright and earnest intern at the Florida Today newspaper in Melbourne named Juan Ortega. He was a web site designing whiz, but his love was for reporting and he soon was on his way to the Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale.

And along the way, he met the love of his life -- Shoady Rice, who wrote mortgages in Melbourne.

Today after a morning Seminole Heights Bicycle Club ride, I got in thecar and drove 140 miles east to Melbourne for a 4:30 PM wedding that united Juan and Shoady in holy matrimony.

It was sweet and earnest and beautiful celebration of their union. I was happy to be there.


A short and succinct ceremony -- and Juan and Shoady were married.


Juan and Shoady were loved by all.


Juan looked dapper.


My favorite dance scene -- Shoady's mom and a Juan family member do the cha-cha -- whoa baby.


DANGER, DANGER!: White people on dance floor.


Juan dances his way to Shoady.