April & May 2020
HIGHLANDS COUNTY CHAPTER PRESIDENT
FORMER PROSECUTOR IN HIGHLANDS HARDEE AND POLK COUNTY
Serving all of Central Florida
Got Arrested? Get Brewer! Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Se Habla Espanol Phones Monitored 24/7
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“As an insurance agent and mom of two, it’s important to me to have a reliable vehicle to keep my family safe. We recently visited Gilbert Chevrolet with intentions to “just look” at a new vehicle but after meeting with Roger and his team we chose to drive it off the lot. We purchased our second Tahoe and we chose Gilbert Chevrolet because we know we’re getting a great deal and they are always available for service.” - Kristi & Wayne Morgan Local Insurance Agent
3550 US Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863)763-3154 www.GilbertChevrolet.com
April & May 2020
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Dr. Charles W. Bartels Board Certified Optometric Physician
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5606 US Hwy 27 Sebring, FL 33870 April & May 2020
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CONTENTS
Volume 9 | Issue 2 | April & May 2020
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features 44
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Small Town to Spotlight By Steffanie Immerfall
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Lakeland Makes the City More Colorful Supporting Local Art By Grace Jicha
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Istanbul - A Dive into the Unforgettable City By Jenny Acheson
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We Have Good Kids By Carissa Marine
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April & May 2020
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CONTENTS Volume 9 | Issue 2 | April & May 2020
noteworthySTORIES 60 Back to the Dinner Table By Rebecca Maglischo
100
A Staycation for Spring Break
60
By Alyssa Jordan
inspired by the SOUTH
114
Southern Chef By Layne Prescott
heartland SCENE
110 End of Results Charities
Great Gatsby Event
100 departments
12 Letter from the Publisher 18 Behind the Scenes 22 From Our Readers
Heartland April & May 2020
Cover Gillian Fazio Artist Lakeland, FL
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Photography by Blanton Creative
IV Conscious Sedation Laser Treatment & Digital Imaging Orthodontics 3-D Imaging Invisalign® CEREC® Same-day Crowns Same-day Crowns, Root Canals, Bridges Cosmetic & General & More Dental Services Zoom!® Whitening Botox®
April & May 2020
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VINTAGE w ELEGANT w UNIQUE WEDDINGS
Southern Grace Promises a once-in-a-lifetime Celebration! Located on a heritage family ranch in Central Florida, Southern Grace is one of Florida’s most beautiful wedding venues. Whether you dream of saying “I do” under our majestic swaying oaks, or dancing the night away under the twin-kling lights in our beautiful barn, we have a long-standing tradition of helping brides and grooms fulfill their most cherished wedding dreams.
All You Have to Say is “I Do” Photos by Magnolia Studio
Whether intimate or elaborate, brides and their families can be confident that their treasured day will be flawlessly executed by a dedicated team, allowing them to enjoy their day. Brides also appreciate the ultimate quality and customization of our menus and flowers, and the care and attention they receive.
17822 Bill Taylor Road w Lithia, FL w 33547 w Hello@southerngracewedding.com
www.SouthernGraceWedding.com
April & May 2020 11
L
etter fromTHE PUBLISHER Hello everyone! I am very excited to bring you our April & May Issue. Spring is the time of renewal, new growth and fresh starts. With the beautiful spring flowers we are seeing in our neighborhoods and the fresh smell of orange blossoms our agriculture farmers are providing, we all need to take time to enjoy the outside. Take time to enjoy nature and appreciate the many precious moments that fly by us in an instant. With each issue of Heartland LIVING that is published, my team and I enjoy learning about the stories and topics we cover in and around the Heartland area, and we’re pleased to be able to share them with you. Whether we’re covering arts and culture, local businesses, food, fashion, fitness and health or supporting our agriculture, we hope you enjoy what we bring to you. We create Heartland LIVING for you, our readers, and especially our dedicated advertisers, and we appreciate every one of you for your support. Among the highlights in this issue we are honored to share with you the performance of Cinderella at the Performing Arts Center at South Florida State College. I want to thank local dance instructor Nancy McDuffee who approached Artistic Executive Director William Starrett to offer the children of Highlands County the same opportunity he provides in South Carolina. While out meeting with businesses, enjoying lunch and shopping in Lakeland I couldn’t help but notice all the beautiful displays of art. Gorgeous murals by Gillian Fazio, new sculptures on Lemon Street and local artists who have their art displayed for purchase in coffee shops and unique stores. Thank you, Gillian, for sharing your art and gracing our cover. We welcome student writer, Grace Jicha, attending Southern University for Journalism, who wrote for us how Lakeland is making the city more colorful by supporting local artists. Intellectually, most of us know or have a good idea, about what we should do when it comes to nutrition, exercise and leading a healthy lifestyle. Where the trouble comes in is actually knowing what is best for us. I have seen so many choices on social media for Vegan, Paleo, Keto and Plant Based lifestyles, that it can be so confusing which might be best for you. I asked one of our writers and owner of Haka Fitness, Rebecca Wroten, who I trust for nutrition and fitness, to share her thoughts with us. I hope you all enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it for you. As always, we thank you, our readers for supporting Heartland LIVING. I encourage you to dine, shop and explore local to support small businesses and the economy in your community because when we support and love each other, it creates a better place for all of us. We hope you hope you have a Blessed Easter with family & friends.
God Bless,
Cindy Sebring Adams 12
Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com
The Twisted Teapot is dedicated to providing an unforgettable afternoon tea experience with quality food and exceptional service. Customers comes first; whether it’s catering to a special need or delivering a truly unforgettable experience for a special occasion.
200 First Street South Winter Haven, FL 33880
Reservations are highly recommended.
863.299.5000
Open: Tuesday - Saturday, 11am - 3pm
www.TwistedTeapot.com
April & May 2020 13
Heartland
Heartland April & May 2020
LIVING
April & May 2020 Volume 9 | Issue 2 CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams Editorial Director Jessica Pleger Assistant Editor Alyssa Jordan Creative | Art Director Bridgette Waldau Writers Jenny Acheson Steffanie Immerfall Alyssa Jordan Rebecca Maglischo Contributing Writer Grace Jicha Carissa Marine Layne Prescott Photography Director Rafael Pacheco Cover Photographer Blanton Creative Feature Photographers Jenny Acheson Contributing Photographers Blanton Creative -Dustin Blanton -Caitlin Gillette Gregory Jones Kevin Kyzer Gregory Mills Polk Museum of Art
Contact: 412 Rest Haven Road, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 863-781-0344 E-mail
Cindy@Heartland-Living.com Become a fan on facebook
Published by
Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc.
Awards Winner of 16 FMA Charlie Awards 2014 - 2018
Charlie Awards
2017 Best Department Design 2018 Best Feature Design Silver Awards 2014 Cover Photo Illustration 2015 Best Self-Promotional Ad Best Feature Design Best Table of Content 2017 Best Feature Design Best Photography Image 2018 Best Overall Writing Best Photography Image Gold Awards 2015 Best Feature Design 2018 Best Overall Design Best Feature Design Best Traditional Illustration Best Department Design Best Photography Image
www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com
Florida Magazine Association
Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc. Copyright 2020, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher.
All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Heartland Living Magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Heartland Living Magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. Heartland Living Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.
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ACCIDENTS HAPPEN... But The REAL DAMAGE May Not Be This Obvious
Your Partners In Personal Injury Dr. Keith Gibbs / Dr. Jenna Gibbs
We’re Here To Help YOUR INJURED Patients, Clients, Family & Friends...
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New Practice Location
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Car Accident? CALL TODAY
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Res Local tau ly ran Own t a ed nd Bar
Steaks - Seafood - Pasta We serve Chairman’s Reserve Certified Premium Steaks!
Live Music In the Tiki
Wednesday Night from 5-8pm & Sunday Afternoons from 3-6pm
Music
Friday & Saturday Nights Live Music on Main Stage, Karaoke & DJ In Tiki Photos courtesy of Visit Sebring
APRIL WE WILL BE CLOSED ON EASTER SUNDAY Saturday, April 25th The Black Honkeys will be returning to the Hole! Make your date night reservations Early!!
MAY Hours: Monday - Thursday 11-9 pm Friday - Saturday 11-2 am Sunday - 11 am-8 pm
Mother’ Day Sunday May 10th Make your reservations early for Mom’s Special Day!
(863) 314-9459
6813 US 27 South - Sebring, FLorida 16
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April & May 2020 17
behind the SCENES Behind the Scenes
Creative | Art Director
Photography Director
Writer
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BRIDGETTE WALDAU has been a graphic and fine artist for over 30 years. She received her A.A. from the Ft. Lauderdale Institute of Art and a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Stetson University. She moved to Okeechobee in 1994 where she opened her art studio. Bridgette has been creative director for several publications, working with Heartland Publications & Marketing as art director since 2011, winning eleven Florida Magazine Charlie Awards (20152018). She is Arts & Culture Alliance Director (13 years) for Okeechobee Main Street. Bridgette is married to James Waldau, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.
RAFAEL PACHECO I am a Pisces and was born on the island of Puerto Rico. My dog thinks I am crazy for locking the door so many times in 10 seconds and my cats think I am made of catnip. Everything I wear is black, gray or blue. If I put on something colorful I must have been in a hurry. Photography is how I have let my artistic visions come to life since the early 90’s. Patience, kindness, sharing, sacrifice, love and not to judge I saw my mother practice these and they stayed within me. We are collective energy and all from the same Source. I don’t see the world through my eyes. I see it through my soul.
LAYNE PRESCOTT Layne was born into a military family, has lived overseas but did most of her growing up in Arcadia. After meeting and marrying Mike Prescott, she moved to Wauchula in 1979 and now calls it her home. She and Mike raised their three children there and now are reaping the benefits of their labor with six sweet, beautiful and perfect grandchildren. Her cooking style is eclectic and best described as “Southern comfort cuisine”. Her greatest joy comes from three things: her faith, loving on her family, and getting in the kitchen and “whipping” up something good.
Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com
Editorial Director
JESSICA PLEGER is a wife, mother, editor, writer, and caterer. She attended the University of Central Florida where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Finance. Before working full-time at Heartland LIVING, Jessica was a paralegal for over 15 years. She is also the owner and operator of Pink Pineapple Catering. Jessica enjoys being outdoors, traveling, and participating in community events throughout the Heartland. A lifelong resident of Florida, Jessica was raised in Hardee County and now resides in Avon Park with her husband, Jonathan and daughter, Finley Grace. ALYSSA JORDAN is a Sebring native, currently studying as Biology major at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. She is minoring in Theology, and has a strong background in AP writing and continues to build upon that in college. Alyssa is also a student athlete and is a member of Southeastern’s cheerleading team.
Assitant Editor
Writer
Writer
KATY FASSLER has been telling stories since she was able to scribble her name in crayon on the wall. Hailing from Akron, Ohio, she moved to Sebring in 2006 to attend the Great Commission Bible Institute. Katy, an avid reader and book collector lives by Dr. Seuss’ advice, “Fill your house with stacks of books, in all the crannies and all the nooks.” Katy and her husband, Sean, live in Sebring with their two daughters, Adia and Emery. REBECCA MAGLISCHO is a wife and mother of two boys. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a Master's Degree in Human Movement with an emphasis on Corrective Modalities. She has completed a two year study in Full Body Systems through the Holistic Nutrition Lab and a certification in Functional Range Condition through the Functional Anatomy Systems. Rebecca opened
April & May 2020 STEFFANIE IMMERFALL is a Chicagoland native who currently works in Marketing for Seminole Gaming. In her free time she and her kids spend time exploring Florida, visiting historical sites and traveling. Steffanie enjoys photography and writing anything from short stories to professional pieces related to business and marketing.
Writer
Writer
Writer Photographer GRACE JICHA is a journalism student and freelance wedding photographer who has a passion for storytelling through both words and imagery. Originally from New Jersey, she has called Lakeland, Florida home since 2017 and loves the art and coffee culture that makes the city so unique. Grace aspires to pursue a career in writing and reporting while continuing to photograph weddings and families on the side.
JENNY ACHESON After a childhood following her UN parents to different countries and doing a French degree in England, Jenny worked as an editorial, lifestyle and travel photographer for 25 years in London, Paris and New York. When she met her husband Dale Rieke, she moved to Sarasota and together they set up Wood Street Studio, a woodworking studio and the vacation rental, Lido Beach House . Her photography clients are international magazines and newspapers and now include the local Sarasota Magazine and Edible Sarasota.
"Every GREAT design begins with an even BETTER story."
- Lorinda Mamo, designer
Advertising Helps You Get to Where You Want to Go. You can advertise in the most widely distributed and read magazine in the Heartland! Your ad will not only be seen in print but also on our website.
Call or email us if you want to become a part of this fast growing publication
863-781-0344 Cindy@Heartland-Living.com
Heartland LIVING www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com April & May 2020 19
Grace & Heart
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From Our
Readers We loved the story on Solomon’s Castle. Thank you for mailing us a copy. -Margaret Johnson from Bradenton Know that spot well... once it was a dilapidated concrete bandstand with pillars (the ones you can see a tiny bit of) around. Downtown Lakeland has made a lot of strides in 30 years. I came to Lakeland as a 6 year old in '57. LHS '68 grad. Left in '83 for greener pastures. Before the good times hit. I still consider it my Hometown. - Donald Renfranz
I wanted to share with you how much I enjoyed your feature story on Richard Hamrick. My parents lived in the same house as the Hamrick’s did in Okeechobee. Hamrick was such a giving person and the story brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful job writing and capturing the story. - Mr. Bumby, Wauchula
Heartland LIVING February| March 2020 We got magazines for our rack and are already completely out. People love it and are asking for more. - Dee’s Restaurant I love your magazine, and I'm from North Carolina! -Teri Catalano Leavengood Thank you Heartland Living Magazine for being the Media Sponsor of the Third Annual Knotty Girl Clay Shoot at Quail Creek Plantation. Racing to Educate and Save Lives!! - Diana Buffington Albritton
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LIVIN Februa
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Thank you to these amazing women... Cindy Adams and Bridgette Waldau of Heartland Living Magazine for trusting in me to tell the tale of such an important story of Okeechobee’s history! -Steffanie Immerfall
Solom
Send us YOUR Thoughts
on
A Mag's Castle ical P lace
If you would like to share your thoughts, please leave a post on our Facebook page or email us at Cindy@Heartland-Living.com. Submissions may be edited for space.
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April & May 2020 23
You were made to move.
Trust the Orthopedic Experts We’re meant to be active. So when I hurt my shoulder, I didn’t let pain change my plans. The orthopedic specialists at AdventHealth got me back where I belong: on my game, on the run, on top of the world again. They were there every step of the way — from helping me understand the source of my pain to guiding me through my surgery and recovery. Now I’m back to doing what I love.
FloridaOrthoExperts.com 863-402-3480
Joaquin Oronoz, MD
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A Unique & Friendly Neighborhood Restaurant & Tavern Best Gatortail, Wings & Burgers in town! Pool Tables | Dart Lanes 8 TVs to watch all your favorite games!
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2751 US 27 South - Avon Park, FL 33825
www.WildTurkeyTavern.com April & May 2020 25
SMALL TOWN TO
SpotLight By Steffanie Immerfall Photography by Gregory Jones and Kevin Kyzer
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stage, the twinkling lights, the beautiful costumes, the grace and elegance Theof ballet dancers have all captivated audiences for centuries. No form of dance
has inspired more young children to grow up with dreams of performing on stage like the art of ballet has. It is a form of dance that not only requires great strength and physical abilities, but it also requires great discipline and dedication. Many young people do not have an opportunity to perform with professional dancers or in professional ballet productions with professional instructors, however a very lucky group of young dancers and instructors from Highlands County and surrounding areas have been given this opportunity for years now. „
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he South Carolina Ballet Company has been performing professional ballets in Highlands County for over five years and including local children ages 5-16 in each of their performances. The Ballet Company has performed timeless classics, such as Nutcracker, Beauty and the Beast and most recently, Cinderella. The performance of Cinderella took place March 7, 2020 at The Alan Jay Wildstein Performing Arts Center at South Florida State College in Avon Park. „ 29
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T
he South Carolina Ballet Company is the official Ballet Company of Savannah, Georgia and Charleston, South Carolina. The company consists of 27 professional dancers from all over the world and tours throughout the South East, performing in up to nine cities. William Starrett, the Company’s Artistic and Executive Director, feels it is important while the company is on tour to be a part of the communities they are performing in. Starrett has designed an outreach program that allows local children to be a part of their professional productions. Early on, his goal was to allow children in communities who do not have professional ballet companies to experience what it is like to be a part of a professional production. The young dancers get the experience,not only the dance, but to see the stage design, costume design, stage engineers and what it takes to put on a professional production. In many cases, this can be life changing for any young artist and allow them to envision what they could do in their future. Starrett’s goal is to cultivate passion for the arts in small communities, to enrich the community, and bring the life of dance, art and performance to places they are less common in.„
April & May 2020 31
C
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inderella was composed by Sergei Prokofiev during World War II. It was first performed by the Bolshoi Ballet in 1945. Cinderella is a classic ballet; however, it is a relatively young ballet in comparison to most classics that were first performed at the turn of the century. Starrett’s adaptation of Cinderella grew from his relationship with one of the original dancers of the Bolshoi Ballet, Raisa Struchkova. Raisa assisted Starrett in bringing the ballet into more modern times, adding humor and making alterations that would engage modern audiences. „
Closed on Easter Sunday
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Celebrate your Mom ... Call for Mother’s Day Specials! April & May 2020 33
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S
tarrett is also a Southern California native who was first inspired by the dancing of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire. As a young boy, he began dancing at San Francisco’s Ballet Celeste and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. He has had appearances as a principal for the Joffrey Ballet and as a member of American Ballet theatre under the direction of both Lucia Chase and Mikhail Baryshnikov. He has over 40 appearances with the world’s most renowned ballet companies and won a medal at the very first U.S. International Ballet competition in Jackson, Mississippi. Starrett has seen numerous accomplishments in his choreographic and directorial abilities. As a director and primary choreographer for the past 28 years, he has designed 16 original full-length ballets, ten classical full-length ballets and 16 original narrated one act ballets for children all over the world. „ April & May 2020 35
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I
t wasn’t luck that brought the talents of William Starrett and the South Carolina Ballet Company to Highlands County, it was a local teacher Nancy McDuffee. McDuffee had lived in South Carolina for some time where she owned her own dance studio and held the position of dance director. McDuffee was involved in a cultural arts center where she found an opportunity for her daughter and other young dancers to perform alongside Starretts professional dancers through his outreach program. The experience for McDuffee and her daughter was amazing and something she wished more children would have an opportunity to do. O n c e M c D u f fe e m o v e d t o Highlands County, she began teaching dance and became involved in advocating for cultural arts in Highlands County. On a trip to South Carolina to visit her daughter, she was at a local Starbucks and ran into William Starrett. She mentioned that she was involved with young dancers in Florida and would love to offer the children of Highlands County the same opportunity he provided in South Carolina.
Morgan’s Furniture “Your Comfort Is Our Business”
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707 S.W. Park Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972 April & May 2020 37
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I
n 2015, the South Carolina Ballet performed Nutcracker in Highlands County for the first time, with 90 local dancers as a part of the performance. McDuffee explains how “The South Carolina Ballet auditioned local children for small roles so that they had an opportunity to be a part of the major production. The local children were fully integrated into the production with the professional dancers, who are from all around the world.” Since the first performance, McDuffee has been responsible for a combination of choreography and rehearsing the children. The local children and the professional dancers only rehearse together one time; she works with the kids so that they are in the spot on the stage exactly where the professional dancers expect them to be. This year, 60 children from Highlands County and five surrounding counties performed in the Cinderella performance. Casting calls go out to local dancers as well as through the South Florida State College and in conjunction with the local children’s museum. McDuffee, who is passionate about Arts and Education, says she is grateful to the South Carolina Ballet company for the opportunities the kids of Highlands County were given. She says the children learn so much from the professional production. McDuffee went on to say, “Without the dedication and commitment of the parents, community, and support from the Center of Performing Arts at South Florida State College, none of this would be possible.”
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www.misscindysgardens.com April & May 2020 39
Starrett’s goal is to cultivate passion
Arts
for the in small communities, to enrich the community, and bring the life of dance, art, and performance to places they are less common.
William Starrett instruting a dancer.
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April & May 2020 41
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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com
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www.markpalmerelectric.com April & May 2020 43
Makes the City More Colorful by Supporting Local Art By Grace Jicha Photography Courtesy of Local Artist
Lakeland, Florida has become a hub for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and some would even describe the city as arts-driven. With murals and sculptures scattered throughout the town, independent artists regularly releasing music, craft coffee and food joints opening up; art in its many forms is seemingly everywhere. The support for art and artists, comes not only from the citizens, but from the City of Lakeland itself as well as both small and large-scale businesses. „
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April & May 2020 45
Gaby Escalera
Jenna Cherry O’Brien accepting THE Lakeland’s Citymaker award and in her studio (right).
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Pictured on this page: Tapestries Lakeland – An Un-mural Exhibition
Gaby Escalera
“I have prints displayed in local coffee shops and I even got to work on the album cover for a local artist. It’s cool to see different forms of art come together,” said Gaby Escalera, owner of Gaby’s Art Gallery. In January of 2019, digital artist Jenna Cherry O’Brien was awarded "Lakeland’s Citymaker" award for her artistic influence on the city. The city also commissions artists to host “Tapestries Lakeland – An Un-mural Exhibition,” in downtown to promote quality works of street art in Lakeland and enhance the value of three urban areas, Downtown, Midtown and Dixieland,” according to the Lakeland government's website.
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Lemon Street Promenade in Downtown Lakeland
Additionally, on the second Saturday of every month from 9 AM to 3 PM, Lakeland hosts “Gallery on the Promenade” in the downtown area. The art market gives artists and vendors the opportunity to display and sell their work for those passing by. Lakeland’s downtown streets are also filled with sculptures that change annually. The ten sculptures that win the Florida Outdoor Sculpture competition earn a spot on Lemon Street to be showcased for a year. The city’s support for art is evident, but it does not stop with government awards or contests. The Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) aims to make "Swan City" a more colorful place with a tangible strategy by offering 50 percent off of murals painted in redeveloping areas as an incentive to the businesses located in these designated places. Additionally, in February of 2020, Lakeland city commissioners voted to allocate one percent of city construction project funds towards art in public spaces with a maximum of $100,000 per year. Thirty percent of the budget will be used to maintain existing artworks. Beth Sherling, Program Coordinator for Parks & Recreation Department, City of Lakeland states, "Regarding art specifically, outside of the Lemon Street sculptures (formally known as the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition) which change annually, we are quite proud of our art inventory in Park spaces, especially in downtown". 48
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Gallery on the Promenade
Sculpture photography by Gregory Mills and the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College.
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Photography by Kelly Quinn
Pictured above and below: Gillian Fazio
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Gillian Fazio
“I’ll reach out to businesses located in redevelopment areas and pitch a vision that I could see on their walls and I let them know that the CRA offers them half off,” said Gillian Fazio, a local muralist. “You just have to put yourself out there for your art to be seen,” she said. From orange blossoms to zebra stripes, Fazio’s work appears all over Lakeland at both small businesses, including Gaines Jewelers and the Yard on Mass; and large corporations, including Regional Health Medical Center and the RP Funding Center. Fazio is known for her style of combining nature and culture in her artwork that is painted all across "Swan City." These aren’t the only Lakeland businesses supporting local art. The popular craft coffee scene often collides with visual art as some local cafes display local artists’ work in their shop. April & May 2020 51
Starbucks mural
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(Left): Bump Galletta and Fred Koehler
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Mitchell’s Coffee
Mitchell’s Coffee, located in the heart of downtown Lakeland, features artists’ pieces on their walls and sells them on a rotating basis. Hillcrest coffee does something similar, featuring an artist of the month. Additionally, Lakeland artist Bump Galletta’s work is displayed inside of the recently built Starbucks in the Southgate Shopping Center. Local artwork is sprinkled throughout the town in both independent and corporate-owned spaces.
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Other notable art projects supported by the Lakeland community includes "Kaleidoscope, Butterflies in Flight" and "Swan Art" sculptures.
“Art is super important, but supporting art is even more important,”
- Gaby Escalera
The city’s support for art is progressing forward, especially as aesthetically modern spaces like The Joinery open. “I see influences from other large cities like St. Petersburg, FL that are so appreciative of art, and I hope Lakeland continues to grow in that area,” said Fazio.
The Joinery
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You just have to put yourself out there for your art to be seen. - Gillian Fazio
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Back To The
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d
inner
Table
By Rebecca Maglischo Walking the aisles of a grocery store, one is faced with a panacea of beautiful packages. Each package is thoughtfully designed to draw the eye of the consumer, to tickle their taste buds, and to play on the ever-present nutritional confusion of the first generations of humans that have a choice in what they eat- lots and lots and lots of choices, actually. „
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If you compared the entire span of human existence to a 100-yard football field, the modern existence and food culture wouldn’t even represent one yard on the field. The food industry has equally shaped and been shaped by the pressures of economy, and the cultural shifts that accompany the political landscape. From the first mass produced convenience foods of the post-WWII era, to the modern Nutritionism of today’s specialized diets, food has played an important role in our society. But today’s food environment is more confusing than ever! Obesity rates are skyrocketing across the industrialized world, and the current statistics for common health concerns, such as heart disease and diabetes, are mind-numbing. Even as consumers pay more and more attention to their diets, they seem to know less and less about what to actually eat. Well intentioned dieters swing like a pendulum from one diet to another. Initially, they experience success. But, ever so slowly, that success wanes. The diet often starts to feel too strict, making it difficult to maintain without a huge effort and time commitment. Sometimes, these restrictions even feel socially isolating. Conflicting information screams from headlines: “VEGAN!”, “KETO!”, “PALEO!”, and they all have scientific evidence to prove their way is the “right way” after all. Religious followers of any of these diets seem almost desperate to convert others to the right way of eating.
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in the midst of all this dietary polarity exists a thread of sensible commonality; though it is often hidden by over-the-top restrictions, and a call for zealous conformity. A deep (objective) dive into the current diet trends illuminates a foundation of shared philosophy. These common threads are woven into the long-term success of healthy individuals. Lacking flash and “pizzazz”, these sensible recommendations don’t feel like “enough”. A diet should be hard.... shouldn’t it? But, perhaps by resting in these core principles, one can experience a wonderfully diverse and delicious diet that can span a lifetime of good health.
EAT LESS, in general. Food is EVERYWHERE in our
modern society. Every store showcases snacks at the checkout and the messages to “EAT” come in every format. Text coupons, video ads on social media, billboards along roadsides and more encourage you to eat, eat and eat. The message seems to say, “You have to fuel your body, constantly, all day, all the time.” But actually, you don’t. Every diet is initially successful because it restricts what a person can consume, generally leading to less overall consumption. While calories are not everything in a successful diet, they do still matter!
EAT PLANT BASED.
Plants have always been part of the human diet in varying amounts; across the landscapes and throughout the millennia. It’s hard to go wrong when plants take up the biggest portion of the plate. Colorful produce provides visual appeal, interesting flavors and textures, and keeps the overall caloric content lower. Whether you subscribe to a Keto, Paleo, or Vegan approach, the colors of the produce aisle have a big role in your overall health.
EAT THE BEST QUALITY FOODS
you can afford. If the body is a temple, food is the building block where every piece will count. Even those on a fixed income can choose wisely and spend their dollars on foods that best serve the body. Purchasing the highest quality meats and vegetables is the icing on your Vegan cupcake or Keto cookie.
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EAT THE LEAST PROCESSED FOODS.
Speaking of Vegan cupcakes and Keto cookies, these types of foods aren’t the REAL foods that support health and longevity goals. Though the occasional treat is certainly warranted, the majority of food choices should center around the foods that are closest to how they appear in the natural world. Chicken thighs are better than chicken nuggets; almonds are better than almond flour. Bulgur, Quinoa and rice are better than grain breads.
EAT WHEN YOU ARE HUNGRY,
and only when you are hungry. Hunger is an essential and complex process in the human body. True hunger is also a foreign sensation to many modern people, especially in the western world. Hunger is set into motion by the interplay of various hormones sending important signals to the brain regarding what the body actually needs. The constant consumption of calories halts this important process. Advertisers’ encouragement to eat more and more “healthy snacks” has been so widely accepted that many Americans never even feel the hunger signal before consuming a meal. Hunger is the best and natural indicator of when the body needs more fuel.
EATING “RIGHT” can be interpreted in a variety of ways, but it does not have to be overly complex or rigid. Human nutrition can actually be quite simple. A successful diet has to make sense in the bigger picture. It has to comfortably fit the lifestyle of the individual, and it has to resonate on a deeper level.
A gardener might find joy in eating more vegetables from the garden, while a hunter might better appreciate the harvest of meat. Likely, both are equally well served as the foods they choose are natural and whole. Human nutrition is actually quite simple. At the grocery store, the consumer can seek out the foods along the perimeter- meats, vegetables, and fruits. In the kitchen, each person can cultivate a culture of purpose and experimentation. Then, at the end of the day, every family can come back to the dinner table, a place of robust conversation and joyful, healthy consumption.
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The da Vinci difference Minimally invasive robotic surgery Advancing medicine using innovative surgical procedures is at the heart of AdventHealth Sebring’s surgical programs. In fact, some of the ultramodern techniques we use involve no cutting whatsoever. To further advance the whole health care we offer, we’ve recently added two da Vinci Si robotic-assisted surgery systems to reduce time in surgery, in the hospital and in recovery. While not every case is eligible for minimally invasive surgery, many surgeries once performed “the old-fashioned way” — with open incisions resulting in a lengthy recovery and considerable pain — can now be performed using minimally invasive da Vinci robotic surgery.
From routine to complex cases
During da Vinci robotic surgery, a surgeon inserts a thin scope with a tiny 3-D camera through a few small incisions in the abdomen. The surgery can be completed with the use of a wide array of specialized instruments that allow the surgeon to manipulate the organs that otherwise would require large incisions. The da Vinci’s robotic “wrists” function just like a human’s but with even greater range of motion. Because the incisions are smaller (the size of a dime) than with open surgery, this procedure often requires a shorter recovery time and shorter hospital stays. It offers patients a faster return to normal, less pain and lower chances of wound infection.
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An option for many conditions In addition to cancer, robot-assisted surgery can also treat: ✓ Diseases of the colon and bowel ✓ Diseases of the stomach, bile ducts and pancreas ✓ Gynecologic conditions ✓ Head and neck conditions ✓ Heartburn and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) ✓ Hernia and abdominal pain ✓ Kidney and urologic disorders ✓ Vascular and cardiac conditions ✓ Wounds Over the past several decades, many studies have shown that minimally invasive techniques are safe in patients with cancer that require surgery. “The old paradigm that ‘big tumors require big incisions’ is being constantly challenged by the utilization of minimally invasive approaches,” says Michael P. Latzko, MD, AdventHealth Sebring’s Robotic Surgery Program medical director. “They facilitate access to cavities through smaller incisions — expediting recovery while maintaining sound oncologic principles. These approaches allow patients to return to the baseline level of functionality and activity faster than procedures done through larger incisions.”
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Our surgical specialists work together for you Finding the right surgical specialist can be a challenge. At AdventHealth Medical Group, we’ve gathered a team of surgical specialists under our umbrella of care. These experts work across disciplines to optimize every aspect of your health — physical, emotional and spiritual — from pre-diagnosis to post-surgery.
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A dive into the unforgettable city that straddles ancient and modern worlds.
Story and Photography by Jenny Acheson Istanbul is one of those places I had wanted to go to my whole life. As a small child, my family lived in Ankara, the capital of Turkey. I grew up listening to my parents’ memories of sweet trips to Istanbul, the friends they made and the delicious food! Our house was always filled with Turkish rugs. „
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As an adult, I loved the romance of “Constantinople”- the marvelously complicated and fascinating history, it’s tale of two continents, the mighty Bosphorus straits separating Europe and Asia. I longed to see its incredible art and architecture, hear the wailing sounds of a call to prayer, experience local culture, to eat Turkish delicacies, and drink coffee after a good old scrub down at a hamam! In October 2019, passport and husband in hand, I arrived for a five-day mini trip. Extended research (as always) landed us in the wonderful Karakoy Rooms (lofty, bright, retro finishing, parquet floors and copper piping) above the absolute best restaurant in town - Lokantasi. Karakoy is a waterfront neighborhood in the Beyoglu district revitalized by a burgeoning art scene and trendy cafe culture.
Turkish Coffee
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Sulymaniye Gardens
Locals in Balat
Aprilon&Balat MayStreet 2020 Cafe
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Fisherman on Galata Bridge
Donning shawls to enter Sulymaniye Mosque
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Interior of Aya Sofya
Our first day started at Namli Gurme with the traditional Turkish breakfast of fried eggs, meats and cheeses with bread, honey and kaymak (clotted cream). We walked wide-eyed over Galata Bridge- an absolute madhouse of fisherman, snack carts, commuter trams and stunning viewscrossing the shimmering waters of the Golden Horn to the Sultanahmet and Bazaar districts. Most tourists never leave this area, fascinated for days by the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Aya Sofya and, our first stop, Suleymaniye Mosque. Built around 1555, designed by imperial architect Mimar Sinan, this is arguably the greatest of Istanbul’s Ottoman monuments. Sitting on top of one of Istanbul’s seven hills, the huge complex of domes, minarets, tombs and gardens looking out over the Bosphorus make it popular with worshipers and tourists alike. Putting on my headscarf, we took off our shoes and joined the throngs inside. The fine Iznik tile work, the stained-glass windows, and the sheer enormity of the dome were magnificent. Nearby is the Aya Sofya - a Byzantine church commissioned by Emperor Justinian in 537, then converted to a mosque by Mehmet the conqueror in 1453. The interior 185ft high “floating” dome, gold mosaics and huge 19th- century Ottoman medallions draw a constant crowd. 75
Honey and kaymak at Namli Gurme
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Locals eating baklava in Karakoy Gulluoglu
Tea at Kadikoy fish market
Turkish Delight
We sat down at a bustling cafe in the Grand Bazaar, a chaotic labyrinth that is filled with thousands of shops where you can wile away hours of bargaining and drinking tea, but that would have to wait for a longer trip. Our first night’s dinner was at Karakoy Lokantasi where we ate like emperors- smoked octopus, stuffed mussels, feta in filo pastry, fried beets and grilled lamb ribs. Walking home through the cobbled streets, soaking up the trendy youthful scene, we stopped for a fix of pistachio baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu.
Cafe in Grand Bazaar
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Karakoy couple
Pomegranate juicer in Karaoke
Spice Bazaar vendors
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It was bright and early as we squeezed on the tram to the Blue Mosque. With perfectly proportionate domes voluptuously cascading over each other and more minarets than any other Istanbul mosque, it rivals the grandeur of Aya Sofya. We left with a gifted copy of the Koran to study, and a new friend who had a friend who had a carpet shop. We hung out with some of Istanbul’s beloved cats in the park, and then wandered towards the Basilica Cistern. Starring in James Bond’s “From Russia with Love”, this surviving underground cavern, all drippy and echoey, is comprised of 336 columns mostly salvaged from ruined temples. We loved the hustle of the Spice Bazaar, an Ottoman era market that in its heyday was the end of the Silk Road from China, India and Persia; but it is the outdoor stalls that are most enthralling. Locals rushed around buying brightly colored spices, varieties of cheeses, fruits and nuts, perfume and of course “lokum”, or Turkish Delight. Alongside stalls selling shiny gold and silver coffee pots, we found the famous Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi- grinding coffee since 1871.
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After eating fresh fish sandwiches and pomegranate juice served right from the boat, we walked home back over the Galata Bridge as the sun was setting. Having fallen hard for this city by this point, we watched young lovers pose with the Suleymaniye mosque silhouetted behind them; fisherman, their faces ruddy from the all day sun, pulling in their last catch of the day; we enjoyed the excitement of frantic business at the snack stalls; we did Polaroid shots of people and gave them away; and we belly laughed with strangers. April & May 2020 79
Mosaics in Chora Church
Ferry across the Bosphorus
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One morning we joined commuters on the Golden Horn ferry to Balat, historically home to Jewish and Greek Orthodox families. Strolling around the cobbled streets filled with a mix of chic cafes, ramshackle Ottoman-era houses, quaint antique stores and walls of graffiti, then passing through more conservative Islamic neighborhoods, we found the Byzantine Chora Church. Inside we marveled at the gorgeous mosaics depicting the lives of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
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Another exciting ferry ride that weaved us between freighters and ocean-going ships took us to Kadikoy on the Asian side- famous for its fish and produce market and the restaurant Ciya Sofrasi that showcases delicious regional cooking.
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One highlight was watching a Whirling Dervish ceremony- a mystical and meditative eulogy to the Prophet Mohammad and a veneration of Rumi, Iran and Turkey’s most celebrated poet.
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Our last morning, we were first in line at the Topkapi Palace, the Imperial Court and home of debauched sultans, eunuchs and concubines between the 15th and 19th century. The Harem had the most sumptuous rooms (the stories in those blue tiled walls!), with gilded chandeliers, fine frescoes, lacquered wooden panels, collections of jewels, imperial robes, portraits of sultans...it was all so intoxicating!
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As Rumi famously said, “Wander away into the unknown depths of this world and let your soul be your guide.” This was the thrill of Istanbul.
View from Galata Bridge of Suleymaniye Mosque
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Introducing Lakeside Dental Arts by David E. Willey, D.M.D. The apprehension associated with going to the dentist can be left at the door of Lakeside Dental Arts, Highlands County’s newest dental office. For over thirty years Dr. David Willey’s mission has been to provide patients with exceptional dental care while relieving the stress and anxiety associated dental visits. His new facility is a culmination of years of planning providing patients a personalized and comfortable experience while utilizing the latest in dental technology. Every aspect of Lakeside Dental Arts has been intentionally designed with each detail serving a purpose. A spa-like atmosphere is yours complete with reserved patient parking spots, patient “comfort boxes”, private treatment rooms featuring television sets, and dental chairs with heating and massage options. All treatment rooms offer Dr. Willey’s signature panoramic views of Lake Jackson. Dr. Willey’s newest office exhibits a deeply personal approach to dentistry and his passion for his patients and the love of his “craft”.
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Dr. Willey worked closely with the architects while designing his new building. Minimizing the typical noises associated with dental practices was one of his top priorities. The lobby houses a spectacular water feature to help patients relax while reducing noise from the treatment rooms. You will notice artwork throughout the office. Each piece was selected for its holistic, spiritual, and healing aspects. Most of the framed artwork has been commissioned using local artists. The purple accents throughout the building represent the dental profession. A dental student will don a purple sash upon graduation from a college of dentistry. The office’s purple amethyst geode was purposefully selected as it is widely known to help purify the mind, relieve stress and anxiety, and promote healing. The crystal quartz piece was chosen as it is known to hold properties of clarification and promotes positive energy. Advertorial
Upon arrival, patients are escorted through a floor-to-ceiling glass door to their private treatment room with a panoramic view of Lake Jackson. Prior to their treatment patients are instructed on how to utilize the heating or massage options on the dental chairs and how to select television shows for their viewing pleasure. Lakeside Dental Arts utilizes the most innovative and up to date technology providing the option for same day dentistry for crowns. The world-class laser aids in the treatment of sensitive areas and promotes faster healing. Oral sedation and nitrous oxide sedation help ensure patient’s comfort while treatment needs are met. As a third-generation dentist, Dr. Willey’s father and grandfather instilled the practice ideology of treating patients like family. Dr. Willey followed in his father and grandfather’s footsteps by attending Wooster College in Wooster, Ohio where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry. He continued his education attending the University of Florida’s prestigious College of Dentistry. Upon graduating from the University of Florida, Dr. Willey moved to Highlands County in 1987 where he began practicing dentistry alongside Dr. David Owen for two years. Dr. Willey opened his first practice on Little Lake Jackson in 1989. Quickly outgrowing his three-treatment room facility, he opened his second office on Lake Jackson in 1999 where he practiced for the last twenty years. Throughout his twenty-year tenure at his Lake Jackson office, Dr. Willey studied extensively aesthetic and full mouth reconstructive dentistry with some of the top educators in the world. He traveled the country observing and learning the latest technology associated with general and cosmetic dentistry. With patient care and comfort his top priority,
Lakeside Dental Arts opened its doors in January 2020 reflecting Dr. Willey’s commitment to furthering the practice of dentistry in our community for years to come. Dr. Willey and his staff at Lakeside Dental Arts are happy to serve their current patient base and accept new patients. Dr. Willey’s passion for his community is evident as he hosts an annual “Day of Giving”. For the last 8 years Dr. Willey and a team of local dental professionals provide dental care at no costs to underserved members of our community. In conjunction with his “Day of Giving”, Dr. Willey selects a patient as a recipient of a “Give Back a Smile” award, providing the patient a complete smile makeover. His new technology and larger office enable these events to reach new heights in caring for our community. Lakeside Dental Arts has a staff with more than 60 years combined experience in the dental field. Taryn Todd Keefe has been a part of Dr. Willey’s team for over 15 years. Taryn is a certified dental hygienist and holds certification to administer anesthetic for dental procedures. Janet Caraway has worked alongside Dr. Willey as his dental assistant for over twenty years assisting in extensive smile makeovers, crown and bridge treatments and more. For 18 years Krissy McGee has led the administrative team and serves patients with a smile. Their experience along with all staff members makes Lakeside Dental Arts a premiere dental care provider in Highlands County and surrounding areas. Whether you’re a lifelong patient of Dr. Willey’s or looking to find a new dental home, Dr. Willey and his team invite you to visit Lakeside Dental Arts and experience the difference in dentistry. Call today to set up a consultation with Dr. Willey and his team of experts at 863-658-3897! Dr. Willey is also available via email at Info@LakesideDentalArts.com to answer any dental questions you may have.
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WE HAVE
Good KIDS! By Carissa Marine
President Calvin Coolidge is credited for his words of wisdom: “Little progress can be made by merely attempting to repress what is evil. Our greatest hope lies in developing what is good”. With that, our communities are filled with good kids. Too often we get caught up in negative talk, join in the complaining, or dwell on violent news and seemingly dramatic actions by “kids these days”. What doesn’t make headlines is the elementary student who daily goes out of his way to help a classmate who has a severe physical disability. What you don’t hear about is the middle school student who planted a community garden so her neighbors will have food. You probably didn’t notice the high schooler who started a school-wide peer mentoring program.
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CHILD
Every deserves to be
Loved
unconditionally at
HOME
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When you see a young teenager in the grocery store, you most likely don’t know she has stopped playing sports in order to work as many hours as possible to provide for her family. Likewise, when you see a tenyear-old have a full-on breakdown in the middle of Walmart, you don’t have much compassion as you aren’t aware his family is sleeping in their car. Furthermore, the kindergartner who always misses the school bus, he has no one to wake him up and no food at home. American educator and author Stephen Covey explains, “We see the world, not as it is, but as we are – or as we are conditioned to see it”. This goes both ways. You might be conditioned by your current surroundings and safe environment to not consider how differently others may live. On the other hand, children being raised in unhealthy and high-risk homes only know such an environment and are not necessarily aware all children do not experience the same. The month of April highlights safe, happy childhoods, and the prevention of child abuse and neglect across our nation. Throughout the month, you will hopefully notice a sea of blue attire, and bright pinwheel gardens planted throughout our communities bringing special awareness to healthy family dynamics and (hashtag) “Great Childhoods”.
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IT IS, but as WE ARE – or as we are CONDITIONED to see it”.
"We see the world, not as
- Stephen Covey
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By definition, prevention is the action of stopping something from happening or arising, and in this case, stopping childhood trauma and neglect from taking place. The goal is to keep children from experiencing adverse childhood experiences, also known as ACE’s. ACE’s include stressful and traumatic events such as violence within the home, sexual abuse, substance misuse, and a lack of adequate supervision. Childhood experiences, both positive and negative, have a real and biological impact on one’s future and overall health. Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, author of The Deepest Well, explains how specifically stressful and traumatic events experienced during childhood will impact how we learn, react, and later parent. She believes it ultimately affects all of society “from our families to our schools to our workplaces to our jails”. Dr. Robert Block, former President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, says “Adverse childhood experiences are the single greatest unaddressed public health threat facing our nation today”. Preventing adverse childhood experiences from occurring means every child will have a safe home and healthy living conditions, receiving positive emotional support and addressing all their basic and medical needs. Preventing child abuse requires established, ongoing protective factors within our homes where parents and caregivers have concrete support systems in place for times of need. The great news is that abuse, neglect, and ACE’s are entirely preventable!
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What can you as a community member do? To begin, practice resilience. Flexibility and strength will help you cope with the stresses of everyday life, as well as the occasional crisis. Your demonstration of resilience can serve as an incredible encouragement and example to others around you. Secondly, learn something new. Being a good parent, grandparent, and/or community member is both natural and learned. Those who deliberately strive to understand healthy child development, respond with respectful communication, and set consistent rules and expectations will help motivate children toward independence, encourage curiosity, and foster safe learning opportunities. Third, show affection. Positive nurturing leads to healthy behaviors, constructive interactions, and an increased ability to cope with stress. Then, be a friend and offer to help. Parents and caregivers need friends they can call on for support, encouragement, and uplifting social connections. We all need help sometimes, and we must be willing to provide help when able and accept help when necessary. Most importantly, we are to be positive role models in the lives of children. Encourage parents within your community; sincerely listen to the heart of a teenager; offer assistance to a single mom; lovingly mentor a young couple; share beneficial resources with your neighbor; actively demonstrate healthy relationships. President and CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America, Dr. Melissa Merrick states, “Prevention happens in partnership�. The strength of our community, healthiness of our families, and future of our children all rest in our desire to work together throughout our communities, as well as prioritizing investing in the safety and wellbeing of the next generation. Prevention truly is the greatest investment for our children, our future. Every child deserves to feel the full support of their community. Every child deserves to sense belonging within their neighborhood. Every child deserves to have true, kind friends at school. Every child deserves to be loved unconditionally at home. Our communities are filled with good kids, and each one of them deserves a great childhood. Carissa Marines serves as CEO of the Champion for Children Foundation of Highlands County, Inc., providing prevention programs and early intervention services to local at-risk children and families for over 25 years. 419 E. Center Ave. , Sebring, FL 33870 Office #863-382-2905 www.ChampionforChildren.org
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Our greatest hope lies in developing what is
Good
For more information on Protective Factors, check out the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida and Heartland For Children.
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A STAYCATION FOR SPRING BREAK
Fun Activities for the Family By Alyssa Jordan
With spring break upon us, you can begin to feel a wide range of emotions, and those can range from excitement to overwhelming. Vacations always seem like such a great idea, but it’s not always a feasible option for all families; or maybe you’d rather just spend some quality time at home with the kids instead- a staycation. Whether or not you decide to plan ahead or be spontaneous, these ideas are sure to keep the kids busy; and as they say- a busy kid will usually make for a happy kid!
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Picnic in The Backyard
I know when I was a kid, it was one of the coolest things ever to be able to go outside and have a picnic when the weather was finally warming back up again. You can go straight to your own backyard, blanket in tow and have the comfort of knowing that plumbing and air conditioning are only a couple steps away.
Camp Out Back
If you have a tent on hand, go ahead and pitch a tent in the backyard and lay out under the stars! This time of year, the weather is perfect for an overnight, outside adventure with the kids. Again, the absolute best part is you’re not very far from your home. Plus, you can always go back inside if no one can sleep.
Take Time to Bake
Depending on the ages of your kid (or kids), go ahead and take a day spending some quality time with them while teaching them an important life skill- baking. Not only is it a great way to spend an afternoon, it’s also absolutely delicious. There are a million different and fun recipes on Pinterest or you can even bring out that old family recipe for those beloved chocolate chip cookies.
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Movie Nights
After a busy day between work and play, end your evening with a movie night with the family. But this isn't any ordinary family movie night. Go all out by making homemade movie tickets, concession style snacks and even make reviews after the credits roll. With today’s options between having Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime, your movie options are endless!
Old-Fashioned Forts
Another classic is an old-fashioned pillow and blanket fort building! Grab some dining room chairs to build your fort or you can make it a full-day activity by picking up a large, appliance-sized cardboard box, cut out a couple windows, a door and maybe even use markers to decorate. Lastly, don’t forget to stock the fort with cushions, flashlights, book and snacks.
FaceTime Family
FaceTime is another meaningful way to connect with family and friends while on break. You can use it to check in on family members you haven’t spoken to in a while and also socialize over the phone. You can coordinate times with your children’s friend’s family to socialize and the kids can catch up.
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rt
FINE ART & GRAPHIC DESIGN Designing and Supporting the Arts in Okeechobee since 1994 Creative Director of Hear tland LIVING Magazine Also Offering
ArtéVino Art Classes Okeechobee’s Original Paint & Sip Classes
Step-by-Step Painting Classes Get together & enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage. Call to set up your class.
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Over 30 years experience locally & nationally facebook.com/BridgetteStudio
www.bridgette-art.com April & May 2020 105
Write Some Letters If you’re wanting to keep things a little more old-fashioned and fun, break out the envelopes, stamps, pens and paper. Teach the kids about how "snail mail" works. Write and mail a letter, drawing or photographs to someone you love, like grandma and grandpa or a family member who lives far away.
Craft It Up Whether it’s simple crafts like coloring, making paper dolls, or more involved like slime or playdoh, spring break is the perfect time to bust out those crafting supplies and let creativity flow. Thanks to the Internet, there are tens of thousands of different crafts you can try - slime recipes, origami, cards you can mail- you name it, you can find it. 106
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Plant a Garden By picking up a couple packs of seeds of flowers or vegetables, you can completely transform your backyard while also being productive. It’s a great way to get out of the house, with the opportunity of getting to spend some time together and also is a chance to get in a bit of exercise. While the results aren’t going to be instantaneous, it’ll be a way to teach patience and care and eventually reap the rewards from the sow.
Staycation
STAY HOME - MAKE MEMORIES!
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OKEECHOBEE TO CELEBRATE THE 500 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST CATTLE ARRIVAL TO THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Cattle Drive Sculpture Project Presented by Okeechobee Main Street’s Arts & Culture Alliance
Okeechobee Main Street’s Art and Culture Alliance is raising funds to bring a bronze cattle drive sculpture to Okeechobee. The project will consist of ten bronze sculptures and will include a horse with rider, calf, dog, six head of cattle and cowboy on a fence. The sculptures will celebrate the ranching lifestyle in Okeechobee County as well as celebrate the 500-year anniversary of the first cattle brought to Florida. In 1521 the earliest Spanish explorers and seven Andalusia cattle arrived on Florida shores. The project will be installed in the City of Okeechobee at Flagler Park in the Fall of 2021. The cattle sculptures will graze on the grass along side of the sidewalk with native plants added for authenticity. Visitors will be able to walk along the sidewalk and feel like they are in the middle of a cattle drive and will also be able to read about the history of Okeechobee ranchers. The OKMS Arts and Culture Alliance’s mission is to connect people to the arts and to each other. We want our art projects to celebrate the uniqueness of our community. This exhibit will not only be a celebration of Okeechobee ranchers but will also be an interactive installation containing historical content within the exhibit. This sculpture project will preserve the legacy of Florida heritage for many generations to come, allowing the essence of the Florida Cowboy to come alive here in the Heartland. Sponsorship opportunities available for everyone! If you would like to be a part of this project please contact Okeechobee Main Street, Inc. (863)357-6246 55 S. Parrott Ave., Okeechobee, Fl 34972 Email: art@okeechobeemainstreet.org
Visit our website for more info: www.okeechobeemainstreet.org
Arts Alliance Tab - Cattle Drive Sculpture
Thanks to Heartland Living for your Media Support Okeechobee
Image from Brownwood Villages that the project will be based on. Artist/Sculptor: J. Michael Wilson
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MAIN STREET Old Values • New Visions
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6th Annual End Results Charities Great GatsbY Event
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End Results Charities is a 501c(3) that rallies the community to unite through an Annual Fundraising Event, benefitting One More Child. On March 7 at the Lake Mirror Center, End Results held a high esteem event the Great Gatsby. The night strengthens the community providing a formal night for everyone to enjoy a spectacular night filled with delicious food, mouthwatering desserts, spirited drinks, silent auctions, photo booth and awesome live entertainment with endless dancing. This fun filled event is held yearly benefitting One More Child associated with Florida Baptist Children’s Home. All attending were helping to raise funds for a praiseworthy foundation near and dear to their hearts.
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2019
Please make check payable to General Conference of SDA For: Phuket, Thailand, Mission Hospital Expansion, SSD Attention: Stanley Paniah 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, Maryland 20904 Phone: 301.680.6226
Flyers | Post Cards Magazines | Catalogs Brochures | Publications
CHAMPION
FOR CHILDREN FOUNDATION OF HIGHLAN DS COU NTY, INC .
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Providing Assistance and Hope to our Highlands County Families since 1994. Please consider supporting a local family in need. All donations are tax deductible. Make contributions payable to Champion for Children Foundation. 419 East Center Ave., Sebring, FL 33870 (863) 382-2905 • Nonprofit 501(c)3:
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By Layne Prescott
HAM & SWISS CRESCENT BAKE Ingredients:
Sauce:
1 can Crescent Rolls (Original)
½ teaspoon salt (optional)
2 cups cubed ham (leftover Easter Ham)
Pepper (to taste)
1 can creamed soup (Potato, Mushroom, Celery, or Chicken)
4 ounces softened cream cheese
1 cup shredded swiss cheese
½ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon minced onion
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon onion powder
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare 9” x 13” glass baking dish. Combine ham, cream cheese, seasonings and swiss cheese. Set aside. Separate crescent rolls into 8 triangles. Place approximately ¼ cup of ham mixture into large side of triangle. Roll up being sure to pinch all edges to seal. Prepare sauce: soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth. Arrange crescent rolls in two rows in prepared dish. Sauce should go around edges and between crescent rolls. DO NOT COVER crescent rolls. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over crescents. Bake 30-35 minutes or until tops are browned. April & May 2020 115
GREEN CHILI CHEESE RICE CASSEROLE Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice or instant rice 1 ounce container sour cream 2 cans* chopped green chilies (drained) 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (can use white) *Note: Any size of can of green chilies Cook rice ahead of time. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare medium sized baking dish with butter or spray. Combine all ingredients, reserving cheese to sprinkle on top (or just use more). Bake for 20 minutes, just until dish is heated through and cheese melted. Easy recipe to double or triple!
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PEANUT BUTTER CAKE Cake
Ingredients: ½ cup peanut butter 1 cup water 2 sticks of butter 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 eggs ½ cup buttermilk Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Frosting
Combine dry ingredients.
Ingredients:
In saucepan, bring peanut butter, water and butter to rapid boil. Add to dry ingredients and mix well. Add eggs and buttermilk mixing well. Pour into prepared 9 x 13 baking pan. Bake 20-25 minutes.
1 pound confectioner sugar ¼ cup peanut butter ¼ cup melted butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup coffee
Mix melted butter and peanut butter together. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Add coffee a little at a time until spreading consistency. Spread over cake. Optional: sprinkle chopped nuts.
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In Highlands County since 1982 1500 US Highway 27 South - Avon Park April & May 2020 119
HP Trailers HP Trailer is a company with 30 years of trailer manufacturing experience. Wauchula is our newest addition and will be our Southeast US distribution center. We are the manufacturer and sell at true dealer cost to the customer, direct. Thereby saving people some serious money. Hull Porter 2020 Model Dump Box Trailers 2020 Model Hull Porter 18 foot bed length M/T Tilt Trailer.
18’ M/T Tilt as shown is only $2,595.
Full 18’ of bed length Full 7’ bed width between fenders 2 5/16” coupler Dual extra long self locking safety chains 7,000 lb dropleg jack. Heavy thickness 5” channel steel frame, tongue and full length tongue wrap to front of suspension. 3” channel steel crossmembers on 24” spacing Heavy wall steel tubing in tubing swivel system is grease able, strong and easy to maintain. 3 ton hydraulic tilt jack. Just pump it up in about 30 seconds to load, then release it to let the bed back down when you want and as fast or slow as you want. Multiple stake pocket tie downs, chain keyholes D ring tie downs for easy securing of nearly any load. Low profile 9” high fenders for easy car door clearance. Fenders are steel braced front back and center... strong enough to walk on. Bed front headache rack. Tapered tail for easy loading and unloading Full LED lighting system with thinline LED tail lights protected inside trailer structure
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11 total LED Lights FULL commercial DOT legal trailer throughout FOUR wheel electric brakes STANDARD On board battery brake breakaway system with on board battery and charger 7 prong RV plug with extra long light plug cord wiring enclosed in PVC conduit for longer life. #1 grade ACQ treated wood floor is fitted and bolted in place with nearly 70 separate fasteners! 10 year frame warranty and 10 year floo warranty std. Standard black color-optional Red, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green or Charcoal Gray colors available. Available in lengths from 18’ shown as well as 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 or 30 feet! Std 7,000lb GVWR suspension with Dexter axles and EZ lube spindles! Optional GVWR packages of 9,990, 14,000, 16,000 and even 21,000 triple axle available. Three different fender options available Built by us in our Iowa plant (New plant coming to Wauchula in 2021!)
Complete 14,000lb GVWR models $6,895 and up! Professional grade trailer. down both sides and across front for Full 6” channel steel frame and tongue easy side board installation. Adjustable height coupler std. Pick New greasable billet steel rear hinges! from three different 2 5/16” coupler 2-way gate! Split or bottom designs, pintle ring or even clevis swing out. hitch! FREE. Easy one handed rear gate lock bar! Dual self-latching safety chains Spare tire mount already installed free. 12,000lb spring loaded dropleg jack Heavy 3” channel 5’ long ramps set back in tongue. Hidden under bed ramp storage Locking control box/toolbox in tongue included 3,000 PSI power up and down 10-gauge hard steel fenders std hydraulic pump system with 15’ long 4 corner D rings on floor std magnetic corded remote included. Twin 7,000 lb easy lube axles Full 750amp Interstate brand deep 4 wheel electric brakes cycle battery hooked up charge from Easy lube spindles tow vehicle std. Heavy service 9/16” stud 8 bolt Larger cylinder scissor hoist std!! hubs std 84” wide inside box dimensions std. Heavy service 16” wheels and 20” tall box sides are tough, low profile ST235/80R-16 E rated 10 ply and more than tall enough to haul all radials std of the dirt your rock you need without This is a complete, ready to use any side boards. trailer that is capable of hauling, Full 7 gauge (3/16” thick) steel floor lifting and dumping up to 6 tons Super tight cross member spacings of dirt, rock or debris day in and Tube box support cage with 12 gauge day out! sides std. Full CarboncoatDM enamel paint Full tube steel double door frame system. Tough, yet REPAIRABLE! system Full 2-year hydraulics warranty Corner brackets and stake pockets 10-year frame and floor warranty
Hull Porter Trailers Toll Free: 844-913-3100 | Office: 863-445-9001 We manufacture all series of open bed design trailers, from golf cars up to skidloaders, backhoes and various equipment and cargo. 2020 Model Hull Porter 16’ plus 2’ dovetail car hauler.
Single Axle SS Utility Trailers Model shown is a 76 in by wide bed by 12 foot bed length. $1,450
Model shown is only $2,795
A proven design for 22 years. Full 2,990lb GVWR rating. 2,000lb in bed load capacity. 1,500lb max ramp capacity. Dexter brand easy lube axle. 3,500lb capacity. Strong 6 bolt pattern hubs. New factory warranted ST205 75R-15 6 ply radial trailer tires. Strong Dextar steel mod wheels in white or black Super strong 52” tall ramp gate with heavy wall steel tube uprights and heavy steel mesh surface for low wind drag and great traction for loading and unloading. 3 way gate design. Stands up, lays down on the ground for loading and even folds forward to lay flat in the bed for an incredible decrease in wind drag while running empty. 5,000lb rated 2” posi lok coupler with security padlock tab built in. Dual bright plated extra long safety chains with self latching hooks. 4 prong flat wiring plug tied into shielded and enclosed wiring harness to give you longer service life. 100% LED lighting throughout! 2,000lb rated, easy pull pin swivel up jack with 15” of travel and large sand pad on bottom of jack.
Our original design developed over 24 years ago. Proven, tested and reliable hauler for decades to come. Check out the list of std features below… Always 84” between fenders.
Full 12 gauge Hi tensile body creates the strongest trailer for the least amount of weight. 12” high steel sides on front and rear keep small items much more secure while towing. Multiple d ring tie downs inside, plus super strong tie loops are four corners give you multiple attachments points for a variety of loads. #1 grade ACQ treated Southern Yellow Pine decking is 2x structural dimension for strength and is guaranteed for 10 years against rot. Floor is set, fitted and bolted down with dozens of high grade type F flooring bolts to keep floor in place for years. Complete chassis is hand prepped, acid washed and phosphate before final 3 coats of PMI CarboncoatDM Polyester Hybrid op coat. Heavier thickness rock guard on both fender fronts to help keep rock chips to a minimum. 90 day nose to tail warranty, 2 year components, wheel and tire warranty and ten year frame and floor rot warranty standard.
1115 Hwy 17 | Wauchula, FL 33873 Just south of the Wal Mart on the West side of the highway.
www.facebook.com/HPTrailersWauchula
www.pullhp.com
Low 9” fender height for easy car door clearance. Full 5” Schedule A36 channel steel frame, tongue and full tongue wraps for an incredibly rugged design. 3” channel steel crossmembers on 24” centers Super strong 14,000lb rated 2 5/16” coupler with padlock port for easy security. Dual heavy duty, extra long, bright plated safety chains with self latching hooks. 7 prong RV style lighting plug flows into a shielded and conduit enclosed lighting system for trouble free lighting. 8,000lb dropleg tongue storage jack is set back in the tongue nearly 2 feet to eliminate any clearance issues with your truck’s tailgate. Jack has super large sand pad foot, pull pin drop leg and a total of 30” of available travel for easy hooking and unhooking. 9” high bed front headache rack keeps things on the bed, even under extreme braking. Multiple stake pocket tie downs along both sides (the longer the trailer, the more pockets you get!) for easy tie down of cars or equipment to a solid point. Also perfect for building side boards on if need. Steel fenders come braced on both ends, as well as inside for impressive\ strength. Our fenders are strong enough to sit or walk on without worry.
Extra thick fender front rock guard to keep rock chips at a minimum on both fender fronts. Tandem 3,500lb DEXTER brand axles. Easy lube hubs Stronger 6 bolt pattern hubs std. 4 wheel electric brakes std. Rugged perma lube bushed tandem leaf spring suspension. Smooth riding, sturdy and easily serviced. On board brake safety breakaway system with battery and charger included and already wired. New ST205/75R-15 6 ply radial trailer tires on extra strong 6” wide Dextar brand wheels come with a direct to the manufacturer 2 year warranty! 100% LED lighting system with Thinline LED tail and rear clearance marker lights for a super clean look and hard to damage location. Front corner, front fender, rear fender and rear corner LED marker lights std. All HD flatbed trailers come std with dual 5’ long pull out ramps in their own under floor, lockable carrier. Full width rear ramp hook allows you to place your ramps anywhere across the tail of the trailer for easier loading of small cars and equipment. Every trailer is hand built, then hand prepped before being acid washed, phosphate coated and then treated to our exclusive PMI CarboncoatDM Polyester Hybrid finish in three final coats. Frankly, feature for feature, pound for pound, dollar for dollar, this trailer cannot be beaten by any other company.
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