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3175 US Highway 441 South • Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-2121 • www.Gilberts-Ford.com
Photo by Caroline Maxcy Fox
Photo by Chad Baumer Photography
Photo by Chad Baumer Photography
Photo by Caroline Maxcy Fox
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Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Strength The Brighton Seminole Tribe Journey of Resilience and Growth
By Kristy Harris
40 A Day Trip Hanging Out with Flamingos Sarasota Jungle Gardens
By Bridgette Waldau
April & May 2025
Volume 14 Issue 2
62 The AGB
By Rebecca Maglischo
76 Wellness, Community and a Life Saved A Journey of Health, Fitness and Lasting Change
By Caroline Maxcy Fox
Heartland LIVING
Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art
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Heartland LIVING
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
Have you had the Spring Fever like I have? Well, spring has arrived, and I can’t be happier. I’m a Florida Girl and winters don’t belong in Florida, ha-ha. Really, it seemed like the longest winter and it needs to warm up, especially when I’m seeing people wearing jackets in March. We share in this issue a short story about outdoor family activities for you to enjoy.
I’ve been going back to my roots lately where it all started with Heartland LIVING . Not sure why because I believe in the phrase "don't live in the past or tomorrow but cherish today." This emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment and appreciating the current experience rather than dwelling on past regrets or worrying about future uncertainties. Thinking about my roots isn’t about regrets, and I try not to worry about the future–God has that handled. I feel sometimes it’s ok to look back to see where you have come, fix what didn’t work or let it go and be proud of what is working.
With this, my intention is to deepen my relationship with you, our readers, and to further focus on delivering content that is inspiring and of value that you would like to see. In fact, I would love to hear more from you on what you’re loving in the magazine but mostly what you’d like to see more of in Heartland LIVING For our Spring Issue, our writers and photographers have brought you a variety of features along with gorgeous photography for everyone. I know I’ve said it before, but I couldn’t publish this magazine without my amazing team. Kristy has brought you something from Okeechobee, Rebecca has art & culture from Lakeland, Bridgette is sharing the cutest flamingos, not only on the cover, but where you can hang out with them and hand feed them. Caroline is sharing her personal story that shifted her life to more health and wellness. Thank you for sharing, Caroline.
Cherish Yesterday Dream Tomorrow Live Today
I invited a new team member and friend to this issue, Jamie Bateman. Jamie has shared her family Homesteading & Farming with you in the magazine, and I asked her if she would join us and share some of her homemade gluten free recipes. I know there are some of our readers, even some of my family, that for health reasons choose to eat gluten free. Thank you, Jamie, and welcome to our team.
Time to flip through the pages and enjoy all we have for you in this issue. Please let us know what you enjoyed best. Tag us on social media or send me a note to cindy@heartland-living.com.
God Bless,
Cindy Sebring Adams
Look & Feel Your Best
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Christy Swift is an author and editor with over 15 years’ experience as an awardwinning newspaper correspondent, magazine feature writer, and web content provider. She recently scored a 2-book deal with major publisher, Hachette Forever, and her debut romcom, Celebrity Crush, launched on Feb. 11th.. She also writes fantasy under the name C.P. Swift on www.royalroad.com. Find her at www. christyswift.com.
Editor & Writer Creative Director
April & May 2025
Bridgette Waldau has been a graphic and fine artist for over 40 years. She received her A.A. from the Ft. Lauderdale Institute of Art and a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Stetson University. Bridgette has been creative director for several publications, working with Heartland Publications & Marketing as art director since 2011, winning 11 Florida Magazine Charlie Awards (2015- 2021). Bridgette is married to James, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah
Jamie Bateman has been a community leader in the Heartland for 25 years, representing the fifth generation of her family in Highlands County. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Webber College and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University. With her husband, Billy and their family, they cherish their country homestead, where they grow their own food and promote the importance of supporting local farmers and home food preservation.
Kristy Harris is an Art Teacher, Artist and Graphic Designer in Highlands County. Kristy received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Northern Michigan University. Kristy and her husband, Cason, moved to Lake Placid after college.. They have one daughter, Olivia, as well as two dogs and two kitty cats. Kristy enjoys running her freelance graphic design business (Kristy’s Kreatives), growing flowers, taking photos, traveling, and spending time with her favorite people.
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
"Writer
Writer Photographer
Caroline Maxcy Fox was born and raised in Central Florida. She decided to be an artist at the age of five. After achieving her BSA from Florida State University, she then received a Master's in Graphic Design from NC State University. She developed a "way of seeing" that fuels her work. Caroline is a full-time photographer and lives with her husband in Sebring. They run the day-to-day life at The Great Commission Bible Institute as the site coordinators and dorm parents.
Writer
Photographer
Writer Photographer
Emily Plank is a watercolor and acrylic artist based in Lakeland, FL. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art. She started her business over 10 years ago mainly as a photographer and eventually returning to her first love, painting. She also discovered a personal knack for painting on fabric and began creating avant-garde pieces of artwork on various items of clothing.
Shawn Veach has been an enthusiastic photographer since picking up a Canon ESO Rebel T6 to take photos, which was over 7 years ago. Her favorite images to capture are nature photos of beaches and mountains, as well as animals and birds. She has also expanded her subject matter to include her five grandchildren. Since retiring from finance, she plans to spend more time building her portfolio. Shawn, along with her husband Bill, live in Punta Gorda, FL.
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READERS
Heartland LIVING
February & March 2025 Issue
"Love the retro pin up cover!"
-Cindy Spritzer
"Absolutely stunning! Always a first-class presentation."
-Diana Albritton Insurance Services
"I remember that show! 1984."
-Mimi Michelle Gillie
"Thank you for the wonderful article about Cypress Gardens and water skiing in the February-March 2025 issue of Heartland Living Magazine and especially kudos to Bridgette Waldau, who I assume did the magazine layout. I was a skier at Cypress Gardens when Bridgette applied. Her application would have been reviewed by then Show Director Buster MacCalla, whom I replaced in 1974. I went to Cypress Gardens with my parents and grandchildren a few years before it closed. I was so sorry to see it go. Thanks for the memories." -Lynn Novakofski
We are very happy with our ad [Heritage Festival 2025].
As we have done in the past, we are planning to print some posters from it. Thank you for assisting us to promote our event.
-Nancy Fisk
"Wonderfull and inspirational story on Mila. Being so young, she knows what she wants, and with her family support, I bet she fulfills her dreams." -Janice Martin
"I’m a fan and would love an autograph once I see her [Mila] at the races." -Vanessa Green-Ybarra
"Loved, loved, loved your story on Aliens in Our Oceans. The photography is beautiful. It is amazing how the photographer [Chris Gug] can capture the fascinating creatures in our oceans." -Carrie James
If you would like to share your thoughts, please leave a post on our Facebook page or email us at Cindy@Heartland-Living.com
Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Strength THE BRIGHTON SEMINOLE TRIBE’S
By Kristy Harris
Photography by Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and State Archives of Florida
The Seminole Indian Tribe of Florida is a proud and resilient people whose history is deeply intertwined with the rich landscapes of Old Florida. Descended from Creek Indians who migrated south in the 18th century, the Seminoles adapted to the swamps, prairies, and forests. Their culture, shaped by both ancestral traditions and adaptation to Florida’s environment, has withstood centuries of change. Despite hardships, including wars and forced removals, they have persevered, maintaining their traditions while embracing modern opportunities. Today, the Seminole Tribe continues to honor its heritage, actively preserving and celebrating their way of life through language, arts, and customs while thriving in industries including tourism, gaming, and agriculture. Their story is one of strength, adaptation, and an unbreakable connection to the land they call home.
Seminole Chief Osceola
As part of the Indian Removal policies, thousands of Seminoles were forcibly relocated to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in the 1830s. From 1835 to 1842, a strong Seminole resistance who were being forced to leave Florida fought during the Second Seminole War to defend their land. During this time, approximately 200 Seminoles fled deep into the Everglades where they hid for decades. Abiaka (Sam Jones), a respected medicine man and warrior, was among a handful of leaders who led the Seminoles deeper into the swamps of Florida so that they could remain free and unconquered. Because of this, they were able to continue their traditions and way of life. Today, many members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida can trace their ancestry to the resilient 200 who remained in the Everglades.
Through the years, cities, roads and railways were constructed across the state. With this, more and more people settled in and traveled to Florida. The Seminole Tribe of Florida talked and traded their crafts with the new visitors and welcomed the opportunity to share their culture. The Seminole Tribe of Florida has grown and prospered to more than five thousand Tribal members today. And while the nature of their battles has changed, the Seminole Tribe remains steadfast in defending their sovereignty and rights.
Abiaka (Sam Jones)
Dade Massacre - Painting by Ken Hughes
In 1957, members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida established a Constitution. They are a sovereign government with a two-tier structure. An elected five-member Tribal Council rules governmental and gaming operations. An elected five-member Board of Directors manages non-gaming businesses interests of the Tribe, including their own schools. Today, there are nearly 90,000 acres of land in Florida that are held in a trust by the U.S. Department of the Interior for exclusive use by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The two largest of these “reservation” lands include Big Cypress Reservation south of Lake Okeechobee and the Brighton Seminole Reservation northwest of Okeechobee.
Beginning with a high stakes bingo hall on the Hollywood Seminole Reservation, throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, the Seminole Tribe of Florida has greatly expanded their gaming operations with the opening of six casinos across the state of Florida. In the early 2000s, the Seminole Tribe Gaming Operations CEO, Jim Allen, guided the Seminole Tribe’s acquisition of Hard Rock International. Today, through the Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment subsidiary, the Tribe controls one of the world’s most recognized restaurant, hotel and casino brands, with venues in over 70 countries.
The Brighton Seminole Reservation has also experienced tremendous growth over the last 45 years. Originally, high stakes bingo was held in a red barn which quickly grew into the opening of the Seminole Brighton casino in 1980. Just this past February, they opened the Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino on the Brighton Seminole Reservation in Okeechobee. This new facility features 640 slot machines and 18 tables for blackjack, craps, roulette, and other house-banked card games. It also boasts a 100-room hotel, bowling alley, large swimming pool, and an event center and performance hall designed to host concerts. One of the of the biggest upgrades from the previous casino is the addition of multiple dining options, including a steakhouse, grill, pizza shop and café. The tribe’s commitment to both preserving its culture and expanding its economic opportunities is evident in this development, offering visitors toptier entertainment while supporting tribal growth. Marty Johns, the General Manager of the Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino, takes great pride in the progress and success of the Seminole Tribe: “Everything we do is to provide for our customers, that is number one to me. We love to entertain, and this new casino and hotel does just that. If you make a reservation at the steakhouse, I recommend the bone-in rib-eye and the garlic mashed potatoes. Everything is just top-notch!”
Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino Grand Opening
On this page: Photos of Brighton Field Days
Brighton Field Day in 1939: children's clothing contest
the Brighton Seminole Reservation continues to share its heritage is through the Brighton Field Day Festival, held every February. This event has grown from a simple fundraiser in 1938 to a large-scale cultural celebration featuring rodeo competitions, alligator wrestling, arts and crafts, native dancers and music, and authentic food. Initially, it was a way for the Tribe to raise money for their community, particularly to send representatives to Washington, D.C. to advocate for their interests. Over the years, the event has expanded into a multi-day festival with national rodeo competitors, big name concerts (this year's festival featured country music’s Brantley Gilbert) and cultural exhibitions. The rodeo portion now includes multiple performances over four days, attracting participants from across the country. The Brighton Field Day Festival continues to showcase the Seminole Tribe’s deep connection to their traditions while also inviting the public to experience their unique heritage.
For many, Brighton is synonymous with cattle and Seminole cowboys. They have always been “cow keepers,” spearheading the efforts for a cattle program, and by 1939 there were over a thousand head of cattle on the Brighton reservation. Their plans inspired similar programs across other reservations but also influenced the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s government structure in 1957. Today, the Seminole Cattle Program is one of the largest cattle operations in the United States.
Charlie Micca, the Seminole tribe's first cattle foreman with his grandson Fred Smith
Seminole Indian cowboys cattle ranching at the Brighton Reservation in Glades County, Florida Great
Aside from cattle and casinos, another contribution to the Brighton community is education. In 1938, Seminole children were not allowed in public schools, and there weren't any other educational opportunities for them. However, in January of 1939, the Brighton Indian Day School was opened. For 16 years, this school successfully educated many of the future leaders of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, allowing children to learn traditions such as cattle husbandry, farming, and cultural practices while also embracing and encouraging math, science and other core subjects. When the day school closed, students could attend public schools in Okeechobee.
The dedication to education continued with the opening of the Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School (PECS) in 2007. This school was inspired by Seminole parents and their desire for their children to continue learning the language and culture of their ancestors not taught in public schools. In May of 2022, the school expanded their program into a brand-new facility for an immersion program featuring a library, cafeteria, community cultural center and chickee village. This facility was specifically designed for the Creek Immersion Program to expand the 40-ish fluent Creek speakers in the tribe.
Brighton Indian Day School
Above & Below: Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School
The Brighton Seminole Reservation and the Seminole Tribe of Florida stand as a testament to resilience, adaptability and cultural pride. From their early days navigating the swamps of Old Florida to their modern successes in business and tourism, they have continuously evolved while holding fast to their traditions. As the Tribe has continuously demonstrated, growth and progress do not come at the expense of heritage—instead, they walk hand in hand. Looking toward the future, their guiding principle, as emphasized by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, remains clear: "The world has changed, as it always has, and we have adapted, as we always have; while keeping our ways, our culture, and our lives, to remain the Unconquered Seminole Tribe of Florida." This enduring spirit ensures that their legacy will thrive for generations to come.
THE BRIGHTON SEMINOLE RESERVATION AND THE SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA STAND AS A TESTAMENT TO RESILIENCE, ADAPTABILITY AND CULTURAL PRIDE.
A DAY TRIP HANGING WITH
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
By Bridgette Waldau
Before “The Mouse,” as far back as the 1800s, tourists were coming to Florida. They came to stay in small motels along old Florida highways, enjoy warm weather and experience nature. Popular attractions, such as Silver Springs, Bok Towers, Weeki Wachee Springs, Gatorland and Cypress Gardens, to name only a few, were places tourists found by using paper maps and driving along Florida back roads. Long before GPS and the opening of major highways—I-75, I-95 and the Florida Turnpike—getting to the adventure was part of the adventure.
Photography by Shawn Veach
remember fondly when my grandmother visited Bradenton, Florida in the 1960s, and the stories she would tell us about her visits to Cypress Gardens and Silver Springs were magical. When I moved to Florida in 1972, I could not wait to experience her travels, and I did visit Florida attractions many times during the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Sadly, over 75% of historical Florida attractions have closed, but there are still a few around that you can enjoy. One popular attraction is Sarasota Jungle Gardens, located in the Indian Beach neighborhood on the Sarasota bayfront. Recently my sister, Shawn Veach, joined me for a fascinating day trip to Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The two-hour trip took us up 1-75 to University Parkway and then to Tamiami Trail. After taking a few side roads, we saw the large retro billboard directing us to the Gardens’ parking lot. It was amazing to me that this historical attraction, right off Bay Shore Road, is so close to the beaches and in the middle of a vast community. Sitting on 10 acres, Sarasota Jungle Gardens has survived, sharing beautiful gardens and amazing animals—especially the flamingos!
The main entrance takes you through the gift store, where we were greeted by Alan Gillespie, our guide for the day. A former Broadway actor, Gillespie is head of entertainment at Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and his mission is to add more fun to animal education.
Alan Gillespie
s you enter the gardens, you can tell this Florida attraction has deep roots. It has survived more than 85 years. Affectionately called “Jungle Gardens” it began in the early 1930s when a local newspaperman, David Breed Lindsay, purchased 10 acres of land in Sarasota with a plan to develop a sub-tropical jungle into a botanical garden. A friend and neighbor, Pearson Conrad, owned an adjacent nursery and shared those same ideas. Soon, a larger plan emerged as Conrad charted streams, planned lakes and provided some plantings from his nursery.
They imported thousands of tropical plants, trees, and flowers from all over the world, and Jungle Gardens gradually took shape. Some of their prized possessions include the rare Australian Nut Tree, a Bunya tree, the largest Norfolk Island pine in Florida, bulrush, strangler figs, banana plants, Peruvian Apple Cactus, native Red Maples, and many more.
In 1936, the owners began noticing many people wandering daily through the somewhat manicured jungle. They began charging an admittance fee of 10 cents for children and 35 cents for adults. On New Year’s Eve in 1939, Jungle Gardens officially opened to the public as an attraction for locals and tourists eager to view the beautiful gardens.
During the earlier years, several owners and their families lived on the grounds, residing in what is now the Flamingo Cafe. The Koi Pond was originally a pool connected to the estate house. Later, a new admission building and gift shop were built. Over the years, this South Florida attraction has changed hands several times. In 1971, Arthur C. Allyn purchased Sarasota Jungle Gardens. His daughter, Dorothy Allyn-Lavick, shared her father's passion for the environment and together they created a place where people could experience the beauty of nature up close while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife. Sadly, Dorothy passed away in 2024. It is still family owned and her son, Chris Lavick, operates the Jungle Gardens today.
s Gillespie took us through Jungle Gardens, he told us that it is home to 200 native and exotic animals including birds of prey, parrots and macaws, primates, small mammals, snakes, lizards, iguanas, alligators, crocodiles and other reptiles—many of them rescued or donated—including Florida’s pink flamingos.
Gillespie started our tour in Reptile World to visit the alligators and led us right into their home. We did not expect that, but it was a bit of a thrill. Then he led us into the pen of two Aldabra Tortoises, which can weigh up to 550 lbs. and live up to 150 years.
Another fascinating sight in Reptile World was seeing kids holding year-old alligators. With the alligators’ mouths taped shut, the kids were in awe of the experience, plus it is one of many photo opportunities in Jungle Gardens. The animal ambassadors are providing a new generation of childhood memories.
illespie then took us to his favorite place, home of the exotic birds! You could clearly see his love for these birds. The birds are so beautiful, and some are quite talented. Jungle Gardens features bird and reptile shows four times daily. We witnessed Amber the Scarlet Macaw roller skate across a table. “This is all enrichment for them,” said Gillespie of the show birds. “It switches up their days, and they feed off the energy of the crowds here. They love performing.”
Entertainment team (L-R): Alan with Moni, Katt with Cleo, Kenzie with Sammy and Rick with Frosty Jr.
Alan and Moni
Mother and daughter holding an exotic bird, one of many animal interactions and photo opportunities
Spooky (Sulphur Crested Cockatoo)
Amber the Scarlet Macaw
hen it was flamingo time! We walked along a beautiful path, passing under a lava rock arch to a majestic flock of flamingos. They are a favorite among visitors, who travel from all over the world to see the long-legged, pink-hued birds. “We’ve had a flock here since the early 1940s. It’s one of the main things people come to see year after year,” said Gillespie.
These rescued birds were so gentle, moving around like melodic dancers. They are not shy, and greeted us personally, face to face. They live in a beautiful setting along plush vegetation and ponds, where they roam freely. They have a wonderful life in the gardens. In this setting, visitors are allowed to feed the flamingos, and we were not going to miss this opportunity. Gillespie did inform us that the best time to go to Jungle Gardens is in the morning if you want to feed the animals…they are full by the afternoon and may not interact as much.
Feeding and walking with the flamingos was a calming experience as well as memorable. My sister has been a fan of flamingos for many years, so this was a special trip for her. I could feel her excitement while she was taking photos walking among the flamingos. Watching her warmed my heart and made this a great sister experience.
Photographer Shawn Veach
e met many other Jungle Gardens animals, including black and white Ruffed Lemurs, Reeves’s Muntjac—the smallest deer in the world, and goats, emus and chickens in the petting zoo. We admired the lush beauty of the serene jungle trails. The full loop around the gardens runs about 1.2 miles. Although the loop isn’t long, there are side paths with interesting intersections and curves lined with extraordinary trees and foliage. It is a beautiful nature walk.
Above: Megan and Aaron -Education Team- with June, the Reeves's Muntjac
s we were leaving, we came across a group of talented art students from Ringling College of Art and Design, creating wonderful images of Jungle Gardens. This place is so inspirational, itself a work of art.
I asked Gillespie how the animals fared during the 2024 hurricanes. He said the animals rode out the storms in safety, away from the destruction that happened in the Gardens. Although Jungle Gardens did close for 80 days between October and December, it is now back open to the public. It amazes Gillespie how tourists come back time and time again. He said, “I met a family, four generations, that have been coming here.”
Sarasota Jungle Gardens took me back in time to a nostalgic Florida experience that does not include thrill rides, simulated earthquakes, long lines and air-conditioning. There were many families visiting when we were there, and the kids, as well as the adults were truly enjoying the experience.
If you live in Florida or are visiting, I recommend you support Florida’s back road attractions. Our sisters’ day trip was well worth the 2-hour drive, and Sarasota Jungle Gardens gave us a lot to talk and laugh about during lunch afterwards. It was a fun and educational day at a timeless place. There is no doubt this roadside stop in Sarasota is “Old Florida.”
Gardens' history provided by Sarasota Jungle Gardens. For more info go to www.sarasotajunglegardens.com
Bridgette Waldau enjoys the beauty of the Jungle Trail
Bridgette feeding a flamingo
-Alan Gillespie
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AdventHealth Amyloidosis research team: Dr. M. Majid, A. Huang, Dr. Y. Pleshkova, Dr. S. Punjani, Dr. D. Bhandare, Dr. J. Passi, and Dr. T. Shimshak
AdventHealth Sebring leading the way with new heart failure screening program
When it comes to heart health, early detection can be lifesaving. But what if a serious disease was hiding in plain sight, often mistaken for something else? That’s exactly the challenge posed by cardiac amyloidosis, a little-known but potentially deadly condition that can lead to congestive heart failure.
At AdventHealth Sebring, a groundbreaking new screening program is giving patients a better chance at catching the disease early, getting the right diagnosis and starting treatment sooner.
This program, led by Dr. Deepti Bhandare, chair of the cardiology department at AdventHealth Sebring, Lake Placid and Wauchula, is the first of its kind in AdventHealth’s West Florida Division hospitals. In fact, there are only a few clinics in the entire country offering the same level of diagnostic workup and comprehensive treatment.
J. Santiago and Dr. D. Bhandare with Amyloidosis Clinic patient
An urgent need for early detection
Cardiac amyloidosis is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leaving patients struggling for years before receiving the right treatment. Research shows that many people spend up to four years searching for answers, often being told their symptoms are caused by hypertensive heart disease or other common conditions. Studies also show that misdiagnosis often happens in more than half of all cases.
That’s why the program at AdventHealth Sebring is so important; it works to provide awareness, access and answers for those who need them most.
“We have an excellent team of doctors who are more than willing to undertake the challenge of advancing treatment in this disease,” Dr. Bhandare said. “This is an underdiagnosed condition, so we want to bring as much attention to it as possible to members of our community so they can be screened for it and get on a treatment plan if needed.”
A
disease that doesn’t play by the rules:
One of the biggest challenges with cardiac amyloidosis is that it doesn’t always look like traditional heart disease. It can affect multiple parts of the body, making it easy to overlook.
“Just three years ago, there were very few physicians who knew about amyloidosis,” said Dr. Shahnaz Punjani, interventional cardiologist and residency mentor.
“When I teach my students, I always emphasize that clinical presentation of cardiac amyloidosis is very different from any other case of heart failure. Patients can experience carpal tunnel syndrome, often in both wrists, eye floaters, and peripheral neuropathy. Deposits in the nervous system may also affect the spine, leading to spinal stenosis. Deposits in tissues can cause tendon ruptures. Untreated cardiac amyloidosis can be life-threatening, with survival rates dropping to just one to two years after diagnosis.”
Because symptoms vary so much, it’s crucial for doctors to consider amyloidosis when diagnosing patients, especially when multiple unexplained symptoms appear together.
Signs and symptoms to watch for:
Cardiac amyloidosis can present in many ways, but some of the most common symptoms include:
Numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet
Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome
Spinal stenosis
Severe fatigue and weakness
Shortness of breath
Swelling in the ankles and legs
Unexplained bruising or purplish patches around the eyes
Because these symptoms are similar to other conditions, patients and physicians both need to be aware of the possibility of amyloidosis and seek specialized screening if necessary.
Dr. D. Bhandare and her Amyloidosis Clinic Team: M. Harris, A. Cruz, Dr. D. Bhandare and J. Santiago
How the program at AdventHealth Sebring works
This new program provides patients with a thorough evaluation using advanced, non-invasive imaging. The diagnostic process may include:
Electrocardiography (ECG)
Echocardiography
Cardiac MRI
Nuclear imaging with technetium pyrophosphate scans, which end the need for invasive cardiac biopsies
Genetic screening for HTTR
“We are extremely fortunate to have the support of AdventHealth leadership behind us. They have supported us all the way and helped us get the technology to offer our patients a non-invasive way to obtain a definitive diagnosis before starting treatment,” said Dr. Yelena Pleshkova, the team lead of AdventHealth Sebring’s internal medicine residents. “Our fully trained and experienced medical staff is also ready to help with navigating the diagnostic treatment and insurance needs of our patients. We also want to thank Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and AdventHealth Foundation for their continued financial support of residents and medical student research for our amyloidosis and heart failure programs.”
Educating doctors to recognize red flags
Raising awareness about amyloidosis isn’t just about helping patients—it’s also about educating physicians, nurses and hospital teams to recognize the warning signs.
“My job as a cardiologist is to make sure that our residents know that misdiagnosis or delayed treatment
Joint Force Amyloidosis research and clinic team: D. Windross, Dr. J. Casola, Dr. M. Asghar, Dr. R. Andani, Dr. D.
In the Cardiac Catheterization laboratory: Dr. T. Shimshak and Dr. Y. Pleshkova
Residents research team at work: (Standing): Dr. M. Asghar, Dr. J. Passi, Dr. R. Andani, (Seated): Dr. Y. Pleshkova, Dr. M. Majid, R. Patel and Dr. J. Casola
Bhandare, Dr. Y. Pleshkova, Dr. J. Passi, Dr. M. Majid, and R. Patel
is very common and only exacerbates the suffering, making early intervention vital to prevent irreversible damage and improve quality of life,” said Dr. Shimshak, the Internal Medicine Program Director and an interventional cardiologist at Adventhealth Sebring.
One of the biggest issues is that amyloidosis doesn’t always present as a straightforward heart problem. Instead, patients may come in with nerve pain, digestive issues or swelling that doesn’t seem heart-related at first glance. That’s the reason physicians take a comprehensive approach.
“It really seems like a ‘head-to-toe’ issue. That’s why it’s so important for physicians, especially in internal medicine, to think about amyloidosis when faced with a mix of these symptoms, especially if they’re unexplained or don’t fit neatly into one diagnosis,” Dr. Pleshkova said. “The most important outcome of our work is the fact that now there is a place here in Sebring where patients can be sent to undergo complete evaluation to confirm or rule out amyloidosis and get the latest treatments.”
New hope for patients
For decades, the only treatment for cardiac amyloidosis was a heart and liver transplant. Today, thanks to medical advances, there are new medications that can help slow or even stop disease progression, especially if caught early.
Amyloidosis original team, who started this project in June 2024:
Dr. Y. Pleshkova, D. Windross, and Dr. D. Bhandare
How to get screened
If you or a loved one have symptoms that could be linked to amyloidosis, getting checked could be a critical step toward better health. AdventHealth Sebring offers screenings and specialized care for those at risk.
To get a patient referral, or to schedule an appointment, please visit Heart and Vascular Care | AdventHealth to learn more.
Amyloidosis Team Members welcoming patient to Every Beat Counts Symposium
estled amongst the beautiful lakes of downtown Lakeland, FL, east of Lake Morton and just a short walk north of Florida Southern College sits The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College (The AGB). This area of town is the hub of wonderful memories for many Lakelanders—feeding the ducks at Lake Morton, story time at the Lakeland Public Library, summer art classes at The Polk Museum of Art, or a visit to Mayfaire by the Lake on Mother’s Day weekend. The Polk Museum of Art has always been a point of pride for Lakeland art enthusiasts, but the newly redesigned architecture, fresh branding and expanded gallery space has elevated a local gem into a standout destination in Central Florida.
Photography by Emily Plank
he Junior Welfare League of Lakeland founded The Youth Museum of Imperial Polk County in 1966 and quickly expanded its mission to emphasize art, history and science. By 1988, it was renamed The Polk Museum of Art due to receiving accreditation as a museum of art from the American Alliance of Museums and relocating to the current main building designed by Lakeland local Ernie Straughn. Always dreaming, improving and striving for excellence, The Polk Museum of Art became a Smithsonian Affiliate in 2010 and is still the only affiliate fine arts museum in Central Florida. In 2017, the museum joined forces with Florida Southern College, expanding the opportunities for internships, art history research and academic programs. The summer of 2023 marked the beginning of “the expansion,” and a transformative gift from the Nicholas and Ashley Barnett Foundation at GiveWell in 2024 gave the future of the museum even greater breadth. This was a project that would drastically change the trajectory and potential for Lakeland’s hometown museum.
fter three decades of dreaming and a year and a half of construction, The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College opened on January 18th, 2025. The renaming honored Ashley Barnett’s passion for the arts and service to the museum on its Board of Trustees. The 14,000 square foot expansion beautifully mingles with the original 1988 building, honoring its history by reinventing the original exterior brick walls as an interior feature. The new construction adds seven new exhibition galleries, a creativity lab, renovated and updated classrooms and interactive art laboratory spaces. With just the push of a button, every new gallery can be transformed into a classroom outfitted with a drop-down screen and projector.
“It was a dream to see our galleries turn into classrooms!” Dr. Alex Rich exclaimed. “I haven’t seen anything like it in any museum I have been in personally.” Dr. Rich has worked at Florida Southern College for 11 years as the Chair of the Department of Art History and Museum Studies, as well as an Associate Professor of Art History. Additionally, he is the Executive Director and Chief Curator at The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College. His deep knowledge is visible in each exhibition within the museum, and his passion for the arts comes through when he shares his excitement about the direction of The AGB. I got the pleasure of touring with him by my side. The new galleries provide the space to display more art for visitors. The museum’s impressive collection totals 3400 objects as of January 2025, and 300 of those are currently on display.
Dr. Alex Rich
dditionally, the museum hosts collections on loan. Presently, visitors can marvel at the 10 additional Rodin sculptures installed in the new Lynda and Steve Buck Gallery, which join another four on display elsewhere in the museum. All of these pieces are on loan for the next year from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation.
The first installation of a long-term dedicated space to Highwaymen art fills the upstairs hallway with a sampling that would bring a smile to the face of any Floridian. The Perkins Gallery features “Matisse to Gehry: Works on Paper,1938-2022.” This selection highlights some of the biggest artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. And this is just a sampling of the art that fills the spaces and adorns the walls of The AGB.
ccenting the design of the new expansion is a Dale Chihuly chandelier. It is undoubtedly the perfect piece for this space, and, as the daylight changes, it reflects new, beautiful light each hour.
Dale Chihuly is a renowned American artist known for his intricate and complex glassblowing art. For works such as this, each piece is individually created, and the entire chandelier is put together onsite. The piece is fluid and can never quite be reconstructed the same way in any installment, yet it is always breathtaking and intentional. In this way, it reminds me of The Polk Museum of Art. Across the decades, in the ever-changing climate of culture, through the ups and downs, the museum has been steadfast and beautiful and intentional. Each time a Chihuly is moved and reinstalled, it is renamed. It is the same piece, but it is also different, equally radiant but uniquely eye-catching. Lakeland’s Polk Museum is in its next installment.
Still shining with the dreams of its supporters but catching the light in a new way, it has received its new name—The AGB.
REDESIGNED ARCHITECTURE, FRESH BRANDING AND EXPANDED GALLERY SPACE
HAS ELEVATED A LOCAL GEM INTO A STANDOUT DESTINATION IN CENTRAL FLORIDA.
Dale Chihuly Chandelier.
Wellness, Community and a Life Saved
Story and Photography by Caroline Maxcy Fox
ast fall, on a family trip to visit my in-laws in Tennessee, I experienced an unexpected medical emergency. I woke up to excruciating pain, started passing out repeatedly with plummeting blood pressure and was rushed to the hospital via ambulance through the winding mountain roads. I watched out the back windows as the brilliance of fall passed behind me. Those colors in the trees were why we took the trip, but little did I know it was so much more than that. The sweet Lord was putting me in the right place at the right time for a major part of my life story (or “staying alive” story) that was about to unfold.
That day, in a Tennessee mountain hospital, I had emergency surgery after what turned out to be a ruptured ectopic pregnancy and massive internal bleeding. In the recovery room, the doctors, looking at me as if it was a miracle I was alive, said that they were shocked things didn’t turn out worse. They pointed to a few factors that played a major role in the outcome:
1 - The speed at which I got to the hospital. This is thanks to my angel of a mother-in-law who noticed the signs, sensed the severity of things and rushed to make decisions that potentially saved my life.
2 - The way in which my overall good health and fitness enabled my body to handle the extreme stress and trauma. It could have and should have been much worse. That day, my general wellness potentially saved my life.
Shifting Wellness Goals: Focusing on Function Over Appearance
For myself, while wellness goals earlier in life may have had more to do with size, shape and “the exterior of things,” as I’ve grown older, those goals have shifted. I don’t want to be working out to simply change the shape of my body but to change the function. I want to stay active for family ski trips and to be able to chase grandkids one day. I want to stay mobile to be able to continue to travel the globe well into retirement and beyond. And I want to develop cardiovascular fitness to withstand future stressors, trauma or surgery.
On that Tennessee fall day, the “future” was nearer than I imagined, and those lifestyle decisions I had made and stuck to years ago as best I could, came into play in a major way.
I am certainly no poster child for wellness and fitness, and I have often found it difficult to establish a regular routine that fits into my ever-changing lifestyle as an artist, an entrepreneur and a later-in-life mom with quickly waning energy. Yet this past fall, just two months prior to my emergency surgery, my sister and I noticed a need in our community, felt a calling and opened a boutique mat fitness studio in the downtown Sebring area. In our dreaming and planning phase, we pondered so many questions.
Why us?
Why do we personally care about fitness and wellness?
Why do the people we care about and those in our community need this too?
How could this change lives?
How could this potentially save lives?
There are a lot of reasons people work out: to lose weight, tone and strengthen their body, for community, for that endorphin high... and while all of that is a great reason to walk through the doors of a fitness studio, we found that our core values have more to do with the internal benefits. Those long term, unseen benefits of a lifestyle of fitness play out in deeper ways—like strengthened mental wellness and cardiovascular fitness.
Caroline Maxcy Fox
Mater
The 21/90 Rule for Creating a Wellness Lifestyle
I’m no fitness expert and am blessed beyond belief by the gurus and legends I get to work alongside and learn from as a newbie in the wellness world. But one thing I’ve found in every conversation, every article, every post is that to create lasting change in your life, you have to choose something that becomes not just a fad for a season, but a lifestyle.
But how do you make a change that’s lasting? How do you create a lifestyle of wellness that works long-term? It comes down to making one simple decision to change and a series of small choices again and again and again. Consistency over time is the key—or more specifically, some experts say, consistency over 21 days and then 90 days. The 21/90 rule helps to build better habits by committing to a goal for 21 days, then continuing for 90 days. It is based on the idea that it takes 21 days to form a habit and 90 days to make that habit a part of your long-term lifestyle. The goal is to make the habit permanent.
So here we are, a quarter of the way into the new year. April 1st marks exactly 90 days since we flipped our calendars from 2024 to 2025. Just three months ago, resolutions were made, goals were set, and for some of us, paths to a lifestyle of a bit more wellness began. You may have tried out pilates, tennis, biking or early morning walks with friends. The key isn’t simply to “try something out” for a spell, although that is certainly where it all begins. The key is to find something that we enjoy enough to make it part of our permanent lifestyle for three weeks, three months, three years and a lifetime. I’m here to encourage you today to keep going, or simply to begin.
South Florida State College
Finding Strength in Community
For myself, I can’t quite say where my fitness journey that saved my life truly began. It’s been a series of beginnings that has evolved over the years and seasons of life. From the three-legged races at elementary school field days, to working my first real job out of college as an in-house graphic designer for a group fitness company (called Mossa today), to running the Disney Princess halfmarathon with a crew donned in tutus made of Disney storybook pages, there is one thing I know for certain… all along the way, my fitness and wellness (and my life, really) journey has always been centered around community. It’s just more fun together. I’m more apt to show up with accountability, I’m more challenged to grow with aligned goals and I’m more inclined to develop a lasting lifestyle of wellness with friends who value the same thing.
It's been my family, friends, and coworkers has encouraged me to stick to it (or oftentimes, to simply start again) over the years. Find your people, find something that works for you and let’s go! You may never know how your life will change or even be saved from the journey.
The sweet LORD was putting me in the RIGHT place at the right time for a MAJOR part of my LIFE STORY
-Caroline Maxcy Fox
Try These 12 Fun Outdoor Family Activities
By Kimberly Blaker
“Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party'."
-Robin Williams
Make the most of this exhilarating season by getting outdoors to enjoy the fresh air, sunshine and loads of fun with these family activities.
A breezy spring day is perfect for flying kites. For even more fun, order a kite kit in advance for your family to design your own. Then, check out YouTube videos on how to fly a kite before you head out to ensure your adventure is a success.
Gather up the kids, head to the nursery and pick out flats of flowers or packets of vegetable seeds. When you get home, plan the arrangement and spacing of the plants. Then have everyone pitch in with digging and planting. To maintain your kids' interest in the garden, set up a watering schedule and have everyone take turns throughout the season.
If you have a stash of construction materials lying around, this is an excellent way to put it to use. Another option is to buy several sections of privacy fencing for prebuilt walls for your fort. There are many ways to build a fort, so search online for easy, low-cost ideas.
Forests and parks come alive in the spring. Not only does the greenery begin to fill in, but wildlife abounds. It's the perfect time of year for a nature hike. Be sure to take along your binoculars and a camera to capture animals, birds, and newly blossomed plants.
Spring is when rummage sales get into full swing. Go on a treasure hunt for great buys and to reduce your imprint on the planet by buying used. Before you head out, check your local newspaper and Craigslist for garage sale listings. Then plan your route to make the most of your outing
For the entrepreneurial family, this is a fun way to spend a spring day. Bake up cookies or brownies, make some lemonade and design colorful "Cookies & Lemonade" signs. Then hang the posters at nearby corners and main intersections. Better yet, take advantage of the extra traffic when a neighbor holds a yard sale.
Pack some finger foods like sandwiches, cheese sticks, veggies and dip, fruit, cookies, and beverages. Then head to the park to enjoy some play, relaxation and grub.
Whether it's a ride through your neighborhood or on a paved trail system, a bike ride is a great way to get outdoors, enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, and take in all the sights of spring.
Nothing says 'it's spring' like a baseball or soccer game. Get some tickets to a pro baseball game or check the game schedule for your kids' school. Before you go, be sure to dress in the colors of your favorite team.
These courses have popped up in parks everywhere and are fun for all ages. Just head to your nearby sporting goods store and pick up a few discs before you go.
Spring is the perfect time of year to roll down the windows and take a scenic cruise. Kick back, put on some happy music and enjoy the blue skies, budding trees and bursts of colorful flowers.
Make a list of items that are found outdoors, such as an oak leaf, clover, piece of trash, chunk of gravel, dandelion, pop can, speckled rock, wildflower and so forth. Before heading out for the hunt, set a time limit and any safety rules. Then split up into two teams and see who can bring home the most items on the list.
Locally Sourced Southern Inspired
Farm to Table Dinners
Prime Steaks
Fresh Seafood
Local Sourced Vegetables
Seasonal Menus
Wine & Beer
Private Event Venue
Restaurant and Event Venue on the Circle in the Historic Highland’s Bank Building
(Farm to Table Dinners by Reservation) “City on the Circle” 200 Circle Park Drive Downtown Sebring, Florida Jessica Pleger, Owner 407-637-4756
Lunch Tuesday through Saturday 11 AM to 2 PM
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B o o k i n g I n q u i r i e s : M e g a n P e t t e w a y | m p e t t e w a y @ s e b r i n g r a c e w a y c o m | 8 6 3 - 6 5 5 - 7 7 0 7
S e b r i n g I n t e r n a t i o n a l R a c e w a y | 1 1 3 M i d w a y D r i v e S e b r i n g , F l o r i d a 3 3 8 7 0 | w w w . s e b r i n g r a c e w a y . c o m
By Jamie Bateman
Jamie Bateman
Family dinner is a special moment to gather around the dining room table and enjoy the blessings that have been prepared. Growing up, our family ate every meal at the table. It was a known fact that when it was time to eat, you had a special seat that was yours. Those dedicated seats aren’t just for church pews.
This family tradition was carried over to our kids and continues to this day. We gather, give thanks for our meal, and dig into the bounty laid before us. That’s when the fun begins. The chatter commences, the stories start to come out, and before you know it, there is so much conversation happening that it’s hard to hear yourself think. The laughter, the joy, the moments that are being created are all for the simple reason that we are gathering to eat.
A dish isn’t just an item that is passed around the table for all to enjoy. Sure, it feeds the cravings, but it’s more than that. It’s a staple. A story behind each one. It’s a favorite item or one that has been passed down from generation to generation. It’s a well-known dish that when you taste it, you know you're home.
Over the years, our dishes had to make a slight change in how they were prepared. Following the discovery of having to ward off gluten and wheat, we had to quickly shift gears on learning how to make those beloved family dishes.
Here are some of our family's gluten free recipes.
Food photography by
Saturday mornings were made for pancakes. It’s a known fact. Cinnamon rolls may fall into a close second, but those fluffy buttermilk pancakes slathered in homemade butter and drizzled in cane syrup take the lead every time.
With a made-from-scratch recipe that is fine-tuned to be gluten free, you will be hard pressed to tell the difference between those that are loaded with wheat versus those that are not.
GLUTEN FREE BAKING MIX
This mix can be used to make buttermilk biscuits, pancakes and waffles.
INGREDIENTS
6 c. gluten free all-purpose flour
¼ c. granulated sugar
2 T. baking powder
1 T. baking soda
1 ½ tsp. salt
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk or sift together all the ingredients in a large bowl. I like to repeat this step a couple times to ensure they’re all mixed well. Store in an airtight container for up to six months.
GLUTEN FREE BUTTERMILK PANCAKES
INGREDIENTS
1 ½ c. buttermilk
2 large eggs
3 T. melted butter
2 2/3 c. gluten free baking mix
INSTRUCTIONS
Start by heating up a cast iron skillet or griddle.
Whisk together all the wet ingredients then gently fold in the Gluten Free Baking Mix until blended. Do not overmix, then let stand for about 5 minutes. Lightly grease the hot griddle and pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake.
Cook the pancakes over medium heat for about 2 minutes or until you start to see bubbles coming through the batter. Flip and cook the other side. Most importantly, don’t smoosh down your pancake. Allow the batter to rise, which will give you the fluffiest, most mouth-watering pancake you’ve ever had.
Serve with homemade butter and cane syrup.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
12 oz. evaporated milk
4 oz. cream cheese
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
½ stick butter
8 oz. shredded cheese
(favorite…smoked gouda)
1 box gluten free elbows or noodles of choice
INSTRUCTIONS
Boil the noodles until done. Drain water.
Mix all ingredients in pot until cheese is melted, add in noodles.
Prep and cook time: 45 minutes
9 servings
INGREDIENTS
1 1/3 c. yellow corn meal
1 1/3 c. all-purpose gluten free flour
¾ c. granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. salt
1 ½ c. buttermilk
3 eggs
6 T. butter, melted
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 425. Lightly coat cast iron skillet. Combine all ingredients until blended.
Pour batter into the skillet.
Bake 30 minutes or until light brown on edges.
Baking a whole chicken in the oven just fills the house with such an amazing smell. The savory scent is sure to make your taste buds water. This recipe, albeit very simple, is probably one of my favorites. The results will leave you with one of the juiciest chickens you’ve had in a while.
Start by preparing your chicken. Once I remove it from the wrapping, I like to rinse it off and then pat it with some paper towels. Next, preheat the oven to 350 degrees while you finish preparing the chicken. This recipe is for a 6-pound chicken, so you may have to adjust the time based on the size of your chicken.
First, I drizzle it with garlic infused olive oil. You can also try it with butter infused olive oil or simply rub butter on the outside. This will help lock in moisture and give something for the seasonings to adhere to.
Next is the seasoning. You can’t live in Florida without using Everglades Seasoning. This is our family’s favorite, and we buy it by the bucket! Generously add seasonings to the inside and out. If you don’t have Everglades, get some, but in the meantime, I would recommend using garlic powder, salt, black pepper and onion powder.
Place the chicken in a seasoned cast iron Dutch cven, adding bay leaves to the wings and inside the cavity. With the lid on, place it in the preheated oven and bake for a couple hours. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 165 degrees once it’s done. About 20 minutes before it’s complete, remove the lid and allow the outer skin to become brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven, and while resisting the temptation to cut into it, it’s best to let it sit for about 10 minutes which will allow the juices to settle into the meat. Slice and serve.
Ingredients
1 c. warm milk (110 degrees)
2 tsp. active yeast
1 T. honey
1 ¼ c. millet flour, plus some for dusting
½ c. brown rice flour
¼ c. Arrowroot powder (can also substitute with tapioca starch)
½ c. potato starch
¼ c. coconut fFlour
1 T. xanthumg um
½ tsp. salt
1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
2 eggs
2 T. psyllium husk powder
¾ c. warm water (110 degrees)
If you’re familiar with baking with gluten free products, then you’re very aware of the trials that come with making any sweet or savory delicacy. Having the right flour mix is key, but then also making sure you have the right flour to make the perfect flour blend is crucial. Having a good bread recipe to fall back on sure beats buying any in the store.
This recipe has been modified from its original version in a way that works best for me, but depending on your oven, you may need to adjust your rise or bake time a smidge.
Start by mixing the warm milk and honey in a small pot until it reaches 110 degrees. Transfer to a bowl and whisk in the yeast. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
Next, gather all the dry ingredients and sift a couple of times to ensure the flour is blended well. Add wet ingredients, mix just to incorporate into the flour.
This next step is the secret ingredient that will help your bread stay soft. psyllium husk powder. Some recipes call for a tad bit more, but I measure with my heart and have found that two tablespoons work well. Mix the psyllium husk powder with warm water and stir quickly. This will gel fast, so once it’s mixed, add it to your mixing bowl. Start by mixing with a paddle attachment to incorporate all the ingredients and then switch to a dough hook. Mix at a high speed for about 10 minutes.
Once complete, sprinkle your counter-top with a dash of millet flour, making sure to go sparingly with the flour so it won’t throw off the overall balance of the dough. Shape it into the shape of your bread pan and place it into a greased pan.
Baking bread in Florida can be tricky at best when it comes to our weather and humidity level. With this next step, I found that if I preheat my oven to the lowest temperature, turn it off and then place the dough in the oven with another pan or bowl of water, this will provide a great environment for your dough. Allow to rise for 45 minutes or until it puffs over the edge.
Remove the water bowl and turn the oven on to 350 degrees, bake for 40-45 minutes or until your bread is toasty brown. Remove from the oven and pan, then allow it to cool, avoiding all temptation to cut into the mouth-watering loaf.
This loaf can stay in an airtight container, on the counter for a couple days but then it’s best to store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
I recommend slathering it with homemade butter and guava jelly.
There’s just something about a cake that brings a smile to everyone’s face. When you combine the sweet indulgence of each bite paired with the sophistication of who the baker is, then you have a winning combination.
A few years ago, I had the privilege of hosting a community event for a local charity in Wauchula. For those who aren’t familiar with this sweet, southern town, when you visit, you will find that the culture of the community is just as welcoming as each person who calls it home. So, it wasn’t a surprise when we had a sold-out event, mainly due to the amazing support that this town has always been known for. What did come to me as a surprise was the enthusiastic approach that each guest had over the main event, a cake auction. From the stories told by locals, some of the world’s best bakers just happened to live in this little town, and, as luck would have it, many had entered their cake to be auctioned off.
The parade of cakes was met with loud cheers and excitement from the crowd. There were a variety of cakes, from a Red Velvet Cake baked by a local senator to a Key Lime Cake and a Calamondin Cake that charmed the audience. However, the one that truly captivated me was the exquisite Hummingbird Cake. This multi-layered, elegantly sugared creation stood proudly on a simple glass cake platter, almost as if it radiated its own light. As the auction commenced, bids poured in, spurred by the reminder of the cake's creator. This wasn't just any Hummingbird Cake; it was crafted with sophistication, pride, and the authentic flair of southern baking by a lady who knew exactly how it should be made. That sealed the deal, and soon enough, the bids for this cake soared, significantly contributing to our event goals. The winner joyously shared their triumph by slicing a generous piece for anyone who wished to savor the dessert.
Like many cakes, I delight in transforming these beloved desserts into gluten-free versions that are nearly indistinguishable from the originals. With the vivid memory of that Hummingbird Cake at the forefront of my mind, I diligently experimented with flour substitutions and created a rendition that has since become one of my most requested cakes. While I could never have hoped to replicate Mrs. Clark’s masterpiece, this version will always be remembered as a close second.
INGREDIENTS
3 c. gluten free all-purpose flour
2 c. granulated sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
3 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ c. oil (I use coconut oil)
1 ½ tsp. vanilla extract
1 - 8oz can crushed pineapple – undrained
2 c. chopped bananas
1 c. chopped pecans – optional
CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
INGREDIENTS
2 – 8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 c. butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 – 32 oz bag of powdered sugar
Combine all frosting ingredients into a stand mixer and mix on medium until the frosting is light and fluffy.
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 350.
Sift flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Add eggs and oil, stirring until dry ingredients are incorporated. Stir in vanilla, pineapple, bananas, pecans.
Divide batter evenly among 3 well-greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
Bake 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Place 1 layer on serving platter, top with cream cheese frosting; repeat with second layer, add third later and spread remaining icing on top and sides.
