Heartland LIVING April-May 2021 Issue by Heartland LIVING

Heartland LIVING April & May 2021

Celebrating 10 Years 2012-2021

THE

PEACH

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10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021

A lifetime of Healthy Smiles begins in Childhood!

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The Southern Peach By Christy Swift

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

ONTEN

April & May 2021 Volume 10  Issue 2

FEATURES 38

The Triple Crown of Hiking By Rebecca Maglischo

Spacious Place By Katy Fassler

When the Lights Go Out... The Show Must Go On By Bridgette Waldau

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021

CONTENT

April & May 2021 Volume 10  Issue 2

NOTEWORTHY 76

The Starfish on the Beach Story By Anna Richard

A Day Just for Mom By Kimberly Blaker

Edna Pearce Lockett Estate By Elaine Levey

FOOD & HEALTH 80

Eating Well Healthy Recipes

DEPARTMENTS

10 Letter from the Publisher 16 Behind the Scenes 18 From Our Readers

Heartland LIVING April & May 2021

Celebrating 10 Years 2012-2021

THE

80 8

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

PEACH

COVER Kaylie, Grace and Ryan Gill at The Southern Peach Company Photography By Emily Plank

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10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021

etter fromTHE PUBLISHER Spring has sprung in the Heartland and I couldn’t be happier, except for all the pollen it has brought. However, with that being said, Spring is one of my favorite seasons because it brings a sense of new beginnings. Azaleas, camellias, and magnolias are among the South’s most iconic flowers that brighten my day. Their splendor is both unique and universal, in keeping with this Spring issue. As the weather warms and the sunshine lingers a little longer each day, it is a great time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather we are having. While typing this, my little pool is calling granddaughter, Finley Grace and me. We have all been through so much last year, maybe this year is the time to take up a new hobby. Let’s get outside more and put some movement in our life. One way we can do this is hiking one of the trails or biking the roads in our beautiful communities. Spring is also the season to plant the seeds of what you want in the future, be that in your garden or in your life.

If getting outside and being active is what you enjoy, then you are going to love reading about the Triple Crown of Hiking with Vince and Monica Strawbridge and their four children. This family from Lakeland experienced the Triple Crown of hiking, a thru-hike trifecta that includes the three prominent long trails of the United States. We thank them for sharing their beautiful family photos of their adventure. Another way to embrace the Spring is finding an opportunity to make a fresh start of your own. I am fortunate that I have a strong staff of writers and photographers that have brought you a variety of feature stories in this issue. We are honored to have the Gill Family from Lithia share their family history and “The Southern Peach Company", where you can visit and pick your own fresh peaches. Thank you Kaylie, Grace and Ryan for gracing our cover. Aren’t they the cutest family in the peach orchard? Another one of our stories that pulls on my heartstrings came about when I spoke with Jennifer Palmer about her sitting quietly in her family home in Okeechobee, stepping away from the busyness and restoring her relationship with the Lord. She shared that in the quietness and getting away with her husband Steve, she felt God speaking to her about a new journey. I suggest you get a nice cup of coffee and enjoy the story and mission of “Spacious Place”. We also bring you an inspirational story from Okeechobee on how creative a local dance studio overcame challenges during their 2020 dance season. Read what happens when the “lights go out” for a group of young talented artist that found a way to make sure that the show must go on. We always love hearing from you so please take time and share with us on Facebook or email me what you found interesting in this issue. God Bless,

Cindy Sebring Adams 10

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

VINTAGE w ELEGANT w WEDDINGS Southern Grace is designated by the state of Florida as a century pioneer family farm and has been a homestead to the Gill family for well over 100+ years. A premier all-inclusive historic wedding venue, where every detail on our estate grounds, includes event planning design+styling for an exquisite wedding celebration. Love is in the details, and it’s the little things and extra touches, flawlessly executed, that are sure to exceed your wedding day dreams!

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www.SouthernGraceWedding.com 10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 11

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Heartland

Heartland LIVING February | March 2021

LIVING

April & May 2021

Volume 10  Issue 2

Celebrating 10 Years 2012- 2012 CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams

Photography Director Rafael Pacheco

Editorial Director Jessica Pleger

Cover | Feature Photographer Emily Plank

Creative Director Bridgette Waldau

Feature Photographers Lisa Taylor Hall Emily Plank Mikaela Queen Georgiana Strawbridge

Feature Writers Kimberly Blaker Katy Fassler Rebecca Maglischo Christy Swift Bridgette Waldau

Contributing Photographers Sebring Historical Society

Contributing Writers Elaine Levey Anna Richard

Contact: 412 Rest Haven Road, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 863-781-0344 E-mail

Cindy@Heartland-Living.com Become a fan on facebook

www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

Florida Magazine Association

Life, Liberty and thE Pursuit of Love October 1961, Havana

Cuba 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

Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc. Copyright 2021, 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.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 15

Behind the BEHIND THEScenes SCENES Creative Director

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 (2015- 2018). She is Arts & Culture Alliance Director (16 years) for Okeechobee Main Street. Bridgette is married to James Waldau, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.

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.

Writer

KIMBERLY BLAKER is a freelance

Photography Director

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.

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 who lives by Dr. Seuss’ advice, “Fill your house with stacks of books, in all the crannies and all the nooks.” Katy lives in Sebring with her husband, Sean and their two daughters, Adia and Emery.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

lifestyle and licensed real estate agent. She's also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an Internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.comat

Writer

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 Haka Fitness in Lakeland, FL.

Writer

CHRISTY SWIFT has been a freelance

writer for over 13 years, working as an award-winning newspaper correspondent, magazine article writer, and web and social media content provider. She is also soonto-be published author of Young Adult and Adult fiction. You can find her at www.christyswift.com.

April & May 2021 Photographer

Photographer

MIKAELA QUEEN is a graduate

L I S A TAY LO R H A L L picked up her camera

from Florida Southern College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications w i t h co n c e nt rat i o n s i n Multimedia Journalism, Digital Media, and Film. She had the opportunity to work for the school’s athletic department as a photographer and videographer. She has worked professionally in the sports communication field as the videographer. After graduating in May of 2020, Mikaela returned to her hometown of Okeechobee and has been freelancing throughout the community in all areas of photography, videography and media design.

six years ago when motherhood inspired her to see the beauty in each day. She loves how photography captures a moment in time that otherwise might be overlooked or forgotten. Lisa grew up in Sebring, Florida and currently lives in Lake Wales with her husband and their 3 sons. Lisa is a full time stay at home mom and a part time photographer specializing in lifestyle photography for families, maternity, and newborns.

Photographer

EMILY PLANK has a photography business

rooted in her hometown of Lakeland, FL. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art where she focused on drawing and painting. She fell in love with photography while at UF, studying film and digital photography. She loves to tell a story, whether it’s that of a person, place or space she is dedicated portraying her subject’s beauty. Personally she loves to give back and serve her community, she loves her Lord Jesus and being with her family and friends.

"Every GREAT design begins with an even BETTER story."

- Lorinda Mamo, designer

There are SEVEN

Good reasons to Advertise in Heartland LIVING

Let us help you get more for your advertising cost.

DeSoto County Glades County Hardee County Hendry County Highlands County Okeechobee County Polk County

Heartland LIVING Call or email us if you want to join us & share your business with all 7 Counties in the Heartland for one low price! Cindy@Heartland-Living.com

863-781-0344

www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 17

from our

READERS

Heartland LIVING February & March 2021 Rebecca, What a success the article (Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Love, October 1961 Havana Cuba) has been, we loved it and our family and friends too. Thank you again. It is a beautiful gift you have given us. God bless you.

October 1961, Havana

By Rebecca Maglischo

Loly Garriga

Loly and Alex share a love story that, literally, took them across oceans.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 59

What a great story on the History of Women's Freedom. I loved the Illustrations and the way they added so much to the story.

Cindy, Congratulations on your 10 Year Anniversary. You and your team do a really great job.

Anne Sebring

Shirley R. Rardin

at’s

his issue we celebrate us. Heartland LIVING printed its Premier Issue in Spring of 2012, when the economy wasn’t at its best. Businesspeople were skeptical that a lifestyle regional magazine wouldn’t make it, I prayed everyday that God lead me in the right direction. Well, we’re still here, and we’ve grown more than I could of ever dreamed. We went from a quarterly publication our first year to a bi-monthly and have won numerous awards along the years from Florida Magazine Association. Celebrate with us as we take a look back, and a look ahead, to the next 10 years.

when

your

ore

Eating Well

Spring Pea Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

Spaghetti squash is a great substitute for regular pasta – it has a very similar look and feel, yet is low calorie (4o calories per cup) and low glycemic (glycemic load 2), unlike traditional pasta which is 220 calories per cup and higher glycemic (glycemic load of 23). You get all the fun of pasta without eating refined carbs. That is a WIN! Eating a healthy diet is not about strict limitations, staying unrealistically thin, or depriving yourself of the foods you love. Rather, it’s about feeling great, having more energy, improving your health, and boosting your mood.

The creamy “Alfredo” sauce is made from a mix of soaked cashews and hemp seeds. You could use just cashews, but I love the benefits of hemp seeds. They provide essential, anti-inflammatory omega-3s, complete protein, and minerals like iron and magnesium. Cashews are an excellent plant-based substitute for dairy, because they add a rich and creamy texture. You can add additional parsley and baby greens or sprouts.

Cindy Sebring Adams

THE RECIPE Serves 4

Ingredients Spaghetti Squash Pasta 1 medium spaghetti squash Hemp Alfredo Sauce -½ cup cashews (soaked in filtered water at least 2 hours or overnight) ½ cup hemp seeds (soaked with cashews) 2 cloves garlic 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup water ½ tsp. pink salt ½ tsp. black pepper or more to taste

We loved the February & March issue, it looks great! Debbie Gill, Southern Grace

Toppings 1 cup peas frozen 1 cup parsley chopped, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heartland LIVING

Slice the spaghetti squash into 1½-inch thick rings, scoop out the seeds and discard or reserve for another use. Lay the rings out flat on a parchment lined baking sheet, and bake for 40 minutes.

To make the alfredo sauce, add the soaked cashews and hemp seeds (including the water), garlic, lemon juice, additional water, salt and pepper to a blender (a bullet blender works well) and blend on high for 1 minute or until super creamy and smooth. Set aside. To make the peas, fill a medium saucepan with a few cups of water and bring to a boil. Add the peas, and cook for about 3 minutes, or according to package directions. Drain and put back in the now empty pot. When the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti squash strands into a large bowl, and discard the skin. (Watch the video on how easy it is to make spaghetti squash). Then add the squash back to the pot with the peas. Pour the alfredo sauce over the spaghetti squash, and add the chopped parsley (if desired) and mix everything well until all the spaghetti squash is evenly coated in the sauce. To serve, add a little extra fresh cracked black pepper, if desired.

February & March 2021

Celebrating 10 Years 2012-2021

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the latest issue. I found the contents very diverse, covering a wide range of topics. The recipes were perfect for me as I am vegan. I made the spaghetti squash. Wendy Schoerverth with Skymark Roofing October 1961, Havana

If you would like to share your thoughts, please leave a post on our Facebook page or email us at Cindy@Heartland-Living.com 18

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

Where Every Day Is a Play Day.

Florida’s ultimate playground At Sun ’n Lake, great golf is just the beginning of an affordable Florida lifestyle that serves as the foundation of our great community. Our variety of rich amenities offer something for everyone — a recreation complex with a zero entry lagoon pool, 36-holes of championship golf, the Island View Lakefront Restaurant & Pub featuring New Coast cuisine, two excellent schools within the district, hospital and medical facilities at our front entrance, and more!

With desirable building lots, preferred builders, and existing resales, we have options for resales every budget and way of life. Come see for yourself what Sun ’n Lake is all about.

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THE

PEACH By Christy Swift Photography by Emily Plank

It only happens once a year and only for a couple of months; blink and you’ll miss it. The warm, fuzzy, treeripened fruits in your hand. Big bites of sweet, soft flesh all the colors of a sunset. Juice dripping down your chin.

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 23

Dock Gill

PEACH The Sweetest Peach is a Southern Peach Peach picking in Florida is kind of a special thing. In a state known for its citrus, peaches aren’t the first thing you might expect at a U-pick, but with the University of Florida’s heat-friendly varieties, more and more peach orchards are popping up. The Southern Peach Company in Ft. Lonesome is one farm who jumped on the peach bandwagon back in 2011. Now, four generations of the Gill family grow three varieties of peaches on 22 acres of their homestead and run a U-pick every year mid-April through mid-May, with exact dates depending on when the peach trees decide it’s “pickin’ time.” “We share on our Facebook page the dates we’re open, what time, what to expect and all the info on that,” says Debbie Gill, who along with her husband Anthony, her son Ryan, daughter Kaitlyn and daughter-in-law Kaylie tend to the orchard, U-pick and General Store. The patriarch of the family, Dock Gill, keeps an eye on things, while the oldest grandchildren, 12-year-old Eli and 11-year-old Ella Jae, help out cleaning buckets. The smallest Gills, seven-year-old Doc McCoy, four-year-old Hattie Blu and two-year-old Grace do their part, too. “They love having the responsibility and working with us,” Debbie says of her grandchildren. “We’ve raised them right.”

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 25

Debbie and Anthony Gill

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

Growing from Tragedy You can’t tell from the idyllic setting, but the Southern Peach Company was born from tragedy. The Gill family has owned the 42-acre homestead for over 100 years. Where the rows of peach trees dig their feet into the ground used to be covered in rows of cabbages grown by “Granny Dovie” Gill Keen. Later, her son Dock Gill, who just celebrated his 89th birthday, worked with a professor at the University of Florida to put in blueberries. “He was one of the first farmers in Florida back in the day to plant blueberries,” Debbie explains. “People thought he was crazy.” Dock had a lot of success running his blueberry farm as a U-pick. Debbie recalls how her teenage boys, Justin and Ryan, helped plant the bushes. Then, in 2004, tragedy struck. Seventeen-year-old Justin was killed in an accident not even a mile up the road from the farm. “It was devastating to our family,” Debbie recalls. That was when her father-in-law Dock took the blueberries out. “Papa didn’t want to farm anything.” The farm sat vacant for eight long years until Debbie and Anthony decided to approach Dock about peaches. “It was uncharted waters for us. We went to the seminars UF put on and read the literature. That’s when we decided we would plant something to bring the people, to get them off the pavement onto the grass.” 10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 27

Opening Their Hearts Now this land that has seen deep sorrow experiences great joy every spring when picking season comes. If you’ve heard Florida peaches are smaller than Georgia peaches, don’t believe a word of it—at least not here. Through trial and error and doing things “a little outside the box,” the Gills produce a beautiful crop while reaching out to the community at the same time. Locals, home-schoolers and families from urban areas make a day of peach picking, filling their buckets and then just sitting in the cool grass under the trees. “They see where their food comes from,” says Debbie, who has a passion for agriculture education. She is a past president of the Cattlewomen’s Association, current Region 2 director, and was named Cattlewoman of the Year for 2016 and 2017. The Gills own a total of 250 acres of state land and lease even more for ranching. The Southern Peach Company is part of the Fresh From Florida program and a founding member of the Florida Agritourism Association.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 29

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

A Peachy Place to Get Married There’s a second reason people come to the farm, and it has nothing to do with peaches. The Gills host events and beautiful barn weddings in the original homestead buildings just around the corner from their stately peach orchard. Like everything else on a farm, the weddings have their season. Beginning in January, the Gills book one spring wedding or event per weekend until peach season starts in April. Their fall wedding schedule starts in late August. While they could squeeze more events in, Debbie says they wanted to offer a relaxing, all-inclusive boutique experience: “It gives us a chance to just focus on their special day.”

Voted “Best Florist” 2018 & 2019

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 31

Weddings on the property are a combination of beauty and history. On a typical wedding day, the moms of the bride and groom spend the day in the Orchard House. The girls get their hair and makeup done in the Cracker House. The pre-reception is held in the Grove House Barn, which used to store the ladders back in the day when Dock grew citrus. The groomsmen get ready in the General Store, a replica of the famous old Fort Lonesome general store. The event itself is held in the Wedding Barn, which used to be a working horse barn. Photos can be taken in the orchard when the peach blossoms are in bloom or anywhere on the scenic property, which includes additional original sites like the Bathtub Gin Barn (where Uncle Tommy used to make his grape wine), the Pecan House (where the pecans were shelled), and Granny Dovie’s guava patch (still featuring guavas). “We love meeting the families. We are blessed that God’s given us this land to be able to share with people,” says Debbie.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 33

How to Pick the Perfect Peach

We won’t be giving you any wedding advice today, but we will pass on some tips for peach picking in case you’re planning to go.  Check www.facebook.com/thesouthernpeachcompany for exact U-pick dates and times and any Covid-19 restrictions.  The color doesn’t determine the ripeness of the peach. They will all have a combination of reds and yellows.  Hold the peach in your hand and gently press your thumb into the skin. It should give just a little, but not be mushy.  Twist and pull at the same time so you don’t tear the skin. To get to the farm, plug the following address into your GPS: 13231 SR-674, Lithia, FL or just go to Ft. Lonesome and follow the smell of fresh, sweet, ripe peaches! Even with Covid-19 restrictions last year, the farm was able to open for fresh-air peach picking. The family took provisions to keep groups separated and asked people to use their common sense. They’ll do the same if restrictions are still in place this year. Lastly, be respectful in how many peaches you eat in the field, but the Gills would be disappointed if you didn’t taste one.

Kaylie, Grace and Ryan

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 35

GOOD. CLEAN. FUN.

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

THE

TRIPLE CROWN

Hiking By Rebecca Maglischo Photography by Georgiana Strawbridge

The Triple Crown of hiking is a thru-hike trifecta that includes the three prominent long trails of the United States. As of November 2019, only 440 hikers had received the designation of Triple Crowner from the American Long Distance Hiking Association since its formation in 1994. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the United States from Mexico to Canada. It traverses the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range paralleling the Pacific Ocean through California, Oregon, and Washington. It is 2654 miles long. The Continental Divide Trail spans 3100 miles from Glacier National Park in Montana to the Big Hatchet Mountains in New Mexico; the trail winds through the Rocky Mountains and crosses the Triple Divide Peak. On the East Coast, the Appalachian Trail covers 2,193.1 miles. It passes through 14 states from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. To achieve the Triple Crown, a hiker walks almost 8000 miles through 22 states climbing a cumulative one million feet of elevation.

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ince and Monica Strawbridge are very aware of the ups and downs in life. After 21 years of marriage and 4 children, they’ve had their fair share of hard times. “Life is hard,” Monica says as we hike the trail at Marshall Hampton Preserve in Polk County. Marriage is hard, parenting is hard, work is hard. And that is to say nothing of the really tough struggles people face through the course of a lifetime. “We want our kids to know they can do hard things because the hard stuff never stops coming. We want them to know they can overcome if they just put their heads down and keep putting one foot in front of the other.” Vince and Monica don’t have overinflated hopes for their kids, but they do hope to give their kids the tools to chase their dreams. It was from this philosophy that a crazy idea was born- the whole family would thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. They would carry their lives on their backs, simplify their existence, learn along the way, and work together to conquer a big challenge. The whole family began to prepare, mentally and physically for a start date in 2018. Georgiana (aka Georgie), the youngest, would be 11 yrs. old when the hike began. Henry, June, and Aiden would be 13 yrs., 14 yrs., and 16 yrs., respectively. To thru-hike one of the United States’ long trails requires a lot of forethought and planning. But a thru-hike with children increases the pressure to plan exponentially. The Strawbridge family tested trail foods, gathered equipment, and began putting miles on their feet. They had planted the seed of adventure and the anticipation was taking root! “When you have young children, the days feel so long,” Vince says. “But the moments had begun to slip away faster and faster.” Monica adds, “My babies were growing up and Aiden was ready to launch. She was ready… We were not.”

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ife slowed down for the Strawbridges the moment they set their hiking boots on the trail. Sometimes, painfully so. Everything takes longer. You have to set up and take down your house daily. Food requires heating water (and sometimes finding water, for that matter) over a tiny fuel source. Then, there are the unique challenges of basic home-school, boredom, and the aches that come from day after day of constant movement. The initial days on the trail made all of them question what they were doing for various reasons. “It was a lot to work through,” Monica laughs. “But the thing is, you have no choice other than to work through it.” And that was the magic.

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 43

n one of the longest days, Vince wrote the following on the family’s Instagram page:

“Jesus said, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again and again. Anyone who drinks the water I give will never thirst- not ever. The water I give will be an artesian

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of endless life.’One of the things I had hoped for this trip is that we, my kids in particular, would read

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he Pacific Crest Trail was 141 days of complete and utter togetherness, reliance on one another and lots of “for better or worse.” But in the end, the family returned home with a victory under their belts and a whole new outlook. It didn’t take long for the trail to call again. And with the agreement to tackle the Continental Divide Trail as a family came the idea to do it all before Aiden flew the nest. The CDT was another 132 days of mental toughness and working together. Each member of the Strawbridge family brought a different gift to every situation. The trail was illuminating their strengths and weaknesses, and providing ample opportunity for each person to step up and shine in one way or another. Trail Magic at its finest.

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Today, Vince, Monica, Aiden, June, Henry and Georgie are somewhere on the Appalachian Trail. They began the trek in early March of this year. This is it, the last foreseeable time the entire family will be together as a unit for any extended period. They all know it. They all feel the brevity of this last adventure. Maybe Vince, most of all. He quotes, “It’s not a question of whether you will hurt, or of how much you will hurt; It’s a question of what you will do and how well you will do it, while pain has her wanton way with you.”

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The Strawbridge family, despite their unique way of life, are not exceptional or particularly unique at first glance. But should you lace up your boots and take a hike with them, you’ll see something special. You’ll see four kids with four personalities and four sets of struggles. You’ll see them bicker and laugh and maneuver all the normal interactions of people in all the normal ways people do. You’ll see a Mom who has weathered many a day of Motherhood in all the normal Mom ways. You’ll see a Dad that lost everything only to find something better. Mostly though, you’ll see a family that slowed down time so they could capture the moments and wrap them in the protective folds of their memories for safekeeping. In the hard moments that are inevitable, they will rub these memories like a precious talisman. Then, with the monumental effort of a thru-hiker on day 100, they will put one foot in front of the other and keep on going.

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We want our kids to know they can do hard things because the hard stuff never stops coming. We want them to know they can overcome if they just put their heads down and keep putting one foot in front of the other. -Monica Strawbridge

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 49

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PLACE By Katy Fassler Photography by Lisa Taylor Hall

He brought me out into a spacious place; He rescued me because he delighted in me. (Psalms 18:19)

In the midst of the sprawling pastures of Okeechobee stands a house surrounded by towering pines and oaks, open fields, and cattle. A house with a purpose beyond its walls. A house that draws you in, envelopes you in its tranquility, and sends you away refreshed. 53

Jennifer Palmer

Spacious Place, a new Christian retreat center, emanated from the Covid-19 pandemic. Jennifer and Steve Palmer of Wauchula used the property primarily for cattle. The house on the property, while maintained, stood mostly unoccupied for years. In the early months of the pandemic, Jennifer and Steve retreated to the property as it was a space to be together and close to where Steve was working during the day. After weeks of daily watercolor painting and meandering the property, something changed. “Really what happened to me,” says Jennifer, “after several weeks of being away from my family and 5 grandchildren, I just finally gave in and had to slow down. God began to work on my heart. I was away from all the distraction. I think He got me still and quiet. He pursued me and I began to pursue Him. I say He relentlessly pursued me because He did not stop!” “He refreshed my relationship with Him and restored it. The Bible verse Psalms 18:19 says, “He brought me out into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me.” This was my rescue.” 54

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10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 55

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The property was originally purchased and built in the 1950’s by a wealthy man from Miami. After a season of hurricanes, he purchased a ranch, built a sprawling home with a tennis court, an airstrip, a hanger, and space for his maid and pilot. “When we got it, it was Miami condo furniture,” says Steve. “We are in the process of changing all of that out.” The rooms have been renovated, painted, and decorated drawing the outside in, bringing a peace and tranquility you can only find in the country. Jennifer and Steve felt the Lord call on their heart regarding the property. One evening, after days and days of mowing pastures, Steve came home and said, “I want to talk to you about something.” This began the conversation about how to use the house as a place for ministers and their families. “We have always been a part of the church and different ministries and have seen the struggles they go through,” says Steve. “Maybe they could stay here.”

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 57

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

(Romans 8:28)

While unsure of what that meant or how to make it work, the Palmers continued to pray and seek guidance. “A friend suggested I begin prayer walking around the property. On April 29th, I started walking around the perimeter praying. I had never done that. My first prayer was for God’s will to be done and to show us what that is; that this place would make much of His great name and His renown and that He would do exceedingly and above all that we asked or imagined. That we would not box Him in or confine Him to what it is we think it should be and that His Spirit would be here in abundance.” Jennifer walked and prayed daily. The message was simple: get the property ready. She did not yet know the purpose, but she knew God had a plan. “Over the months as I have walked with the Lord around this property, He is constantly showing me more of who He is. I am thankful for His relentless pursuit of me and for His call. God is moving and working in great ways.” “Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long” (Psalms 25:4-5).

lisa taylor hall PHOTOGRAPHY

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LISATAYLORHALL.MYPIXIESET.COM 10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 59

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God is already doing incredible things at Spacious Place. “There have been 15 different people here to come help that we don’t even know,” says Steve. “These are random people that have heard and want to come.” “I chuckle because these were not my people; this was not my team,” adds Jennifer, “these are people God has brought together. These people with their heart to serve has been so humbling.” “It is difficult to articulate all that God is doing and has allowed me to experience on this journey with Him. I am overwhelmed at seeing His glory in such a powerful way. What a priceless gift to see the body of Christ at work. Women who don’t know one another coming along side to serve so selflessly. Work didn’t seem like work because there was such joy and excitement for what the Lord is doing. I loved listening to their stories and hearing them encourage and dream alongside me.” Jennifer and Steve have countless stories of the individuals who have been touched already in the preparation of the retreat center; stories of God moving in individuals in ways only God can.

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“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). The mission of Spacious Place is “to provide a place for people to step away from the busyness of life and be refreshed, renewed, and restored in their relationship with the Lord. Our prayer is that all who come will be still, listen to His voice, and find rest.” Exactly one year to the day of Jennifer’s first prayer walk, Spacious Place will have its first retreat. Autumn Kerr, founder of Restoration Nation Retreat, will be leading a retreat that will be ministering to missionary women.

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For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to proser you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)

For more information about Spacious Place, please email Jennifer at SpaciousPlace2020@gmail.com.

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RucksLIVINGMagazine.com (441 Trail) 66 Delainey Heartland

By Bridgette Waldau Photography by Mikaela Queen

hat happens when the “lights go out” for a group of young talented artists? In Okeechobee, a mother-daughter team and owners of a dance studio, found a way to make sure that the show would go on. Located in Okeechobee, Grace Place Dance Studio’s emphasis is placed on providing its students the tools needed to develop proper technique and appreciation of the art of dance, while building self-esteem, confidence and a personal love of dance. Grace Place is owned and operated by Colleen Queen and Abagail Queen. A resident of Okeechobee since childhood, Colleen left Okeechobee for college but returned and worked as a teacher. Her daughter Abagail, born and raised in Okeechobee, attended college and studied dance. Abagail was blessed with the opportunity to become a member of Studio One, a professional Hip Hop group. She also trained with other professionals and performed at an international level. During her high school years, Abagail had the desire to bring her love of dance to Okeechobee. She wanted to give the kids of her community the opportunity to learn the art of dance without having to leave Okeechobee. From that dream, Grace Place was developed. 67

Sassy & Snazzy Sapphires Beginner Ballet

Precious Pearls Dance & Movement

68 Heartland Intermediate LIVINGMagazine.com Sassy & Snazzy Sapphires ... Ballet & Jazz

nnually, Grace Place celebrates its students’ work by hosting annual recitals. As they were preparing for their third annual recital, Covid-19 created a problem. Grace Place did not let that get in the way, nor let their students down. The “Recital Experience” was born. This experience, titled Soar Beyond, was a virtual recital. Routines, representing each class and competition team, were performed in the studio at Grace Place in front of a very small group of family and friends. All routines were recorded, and the process took about twenty-five hours. The recordings were then edited and composed into a one-and-a-half-hour movie which embodied the accomplishments of the students.

During Florida’s Covid-19, phase 3, Grace Place felt it was safe to host an outdoor watch party. Students and their families were invited to the showing of their third annual recital. At the well-attended event, a 20-foot screen was set up, a concession stand was opened and there was music, dance and celebration. Through this challenging period of time, Grace Place said it would make lemonade out of lemons and Soar Beyond was evidence of turning a negative into a positive. The students’ spirits were lifted as they were recognized and celebrated.

Colleen Queen and Abagail Queen

Precious Pearls Dance & Movement

Musical Theatre

The dancers were isolated and a lot of them were struggling because they didn't have any interaction. We wanted to keep them connected. – Colleen Queen

Mikaela Queen (photographer/videographer) and Abagail Queen (choreographer/teacher/director)

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Delainey Rucks (Butterfly Sculptures - Flagler Park Butterfly Garden)

n addition to finding a way to make sure that the annual recital would continue during the period of the Covid shutdown, Grace Place was faced with another disappointment felt by the members of its competition dance team (GPDC). The girls that make up this team audition for their spot, spend extended hours training, make a commitment to participate in regional competitions and also representing Okeechobee at national competitions. After many hours of conditioning, practice and routine review, taking over the course of several months, GPDC was able to attend its first two competitions. However, due to the unexpected “pause” of life, the girls’ competition season abruptly ended. Grace Place again found a way to lift the spirits of the dancers and also make use of the many costumes that had been purchased. They decided to create a project called “Just Dance.”

Chelsea Lamont (Graffiti Train)

Cadence LaFlam (Okeechobee Pasture)

Above Left: Cadence LaFlam and Delainey Rucks (Okeechobee Settlers mural) Above Right: Delainey Rucks dances in front of a portrait of her great-great grandfather, Fitz Hugh Williams, painted on the Williams Cattle Drive mural.

Sierra Smith (OHS Football Field)

ver several weeks, GPDC dancers participated in on-location video and photo shoots. Soloists and groups participated – totaling seven routines. All members were given the opportunity to participate. The photos and videos, along with profiles of each individual, were posted on the Grace Place’s Facebook page. The girls had their time in the “spotlight” where family and friends were able to see the talents of the dancers. During a time that life seemed lonely for many of the dancers, this project filled the hearts of GPDC with joy and provided an opportunity to stay connected. Colleen and Abagail have an appreciation of the arts and are proud to be citizens of Okeechobee. Knowing that the project “Just Dance” would be shared publicly, they wanted to highlight some of the interesting locations in Okeechobee. Backdrops used for filming the soloist’s dances were the Butterfly Sculpture Garden in Flagler Park, community murals, alongside colorful train cars, at the local high school and along beautiful trails in Okeechobee. Friends and dance partners loved the idea of sharing this experience and presenting the art of dance alongside the visual arts.

Delainey Rucks and Cadence LaFlam (Markham Brothers Cannery mural)

s the Okeechobee Main Streets’ Arts & Culture Alliance Director, discovering how Grace Place brought dance and visual arts together caught my attention and is why I wanted to share their story. The Arts & Culture Alliance of Okeechobee County celebrates all genres of the arts, and it is so inspirational to see how creative the dancers were in overcoming challenges and disappointment during what has been a difficult time. I applaud all of the dancers! Grace Place will be holding their 4th Annual Recital on June 5th at the Sunrise Theatre in Ft. Pierce, FL. For more information on Grace Place, go to their website at www.GracePlaceDanceFitnessFun.com.

Dance is what we do, but it is not what we are about. – Grace Place

Delainey, Cadence and Sierra (441 Trial) 74 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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The

on the Beach Story By Anna Richard A young girl was walking on a beach. She suddenly came upon thousands of stranded starfish, each of them fighting for their lives in the beating sun, with seagulls and sand crabs nipping at their poor little bodies. The little girl gently started to pick up one starfish at a time, carrying them back into the safety of the ocean. After some time of doing this, a man appeared from the distance. He looked at all the starfish and then at the girl, and asked, “Why are you doing this? Just look at this beach, there are way too many, there is no way you can save them all.” With a starfish in her hands, the little girl looked up at the man, smiled, and said, “Well, it makes all the difference for this one”. The starfish on the beach story has been shared with many for the purpose of demonstrating that anyone can make a difference in someone’s life, even if we can’t help everyone. But wait, what if we changed the outcome of this story? What if the man, instead of telling the little girl that she could not save them all alone, helped her in picking up more of the starfish and bringing them back to safety? What if all of the beach goers started to help? What if the lifeguards joined, the families in their beach homes, everyone on that ocean street, the church on the end, the school on the other side, the local corner store up the hill, the businesses downtown, the local non-profits, law enforcement, and the rest of the neighborhood? What if the whole beach community got involved and picked up the stranded starfish, held them, and carried them back to safety? Well, the more people that get involved, the greater the impact they would have, and the more starfish would be saved! We have our own “stranded starfish” right here in Highlands County, represented by our community’s children and adults who are struggling with trauma. No matter what their situation is we can be part of bringing them back to safety, by creating a trauma-informed community, that is safe and resilient, built on acceptance and healing, that surrounds, supports, and protects children and adults from trauma/re-traumatization and its adverse effects. How will YOU help our own “stranded starfish” here in Highlands County? If you want to learn more about our Highlands County Trauma- Informed Initiative, please contact Anna Richard, Director of Children’s Services, with the Champion for Children Foundation at arichardccf@gmail.com or 863-382-2905.

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 77

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Eating Well Eating a healthy diet is not about strict limitations, staying unrealistically thin, or depriving yourself of the foods you love. Rather, it’s about feeling great, having more energy, improving your health, and boosting your mood.

Fresh Peach Margarita Grab the margarita glasses and celebrate warm spring evenings with a pitcher of these Peach Margaritas! Cheers!

Ingredients 16 oz. frozen peaches ¾ cup silver tequila ¼ cup triple sec 2 Tbsp lime juice 2 Tbsp agave or honey 1-2 cups ice {garnish} salt or sweetener for rim {garnish} lime wedges {garnish} fresh peach slices

Instructions Using a blender, add frozen peaches, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, agave and ice; blend until smooth. Dip rims of glasses in water and then into a shallow bowl of either salt or sugar

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Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon

This Tuscan salmon recipe is so, creamy, easy, quick and ready in 20 minutes or less! Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon With Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Smothered in a luscious garlic butter spinach and sun-dried tomato cream sauce, you won’t believe how easy, fast and simple it is to cook salmon this way! These deliciously seasoned, Tuscan salmon fillets are juicy and tender on the inside with perfectly crisp edges. You’ll never want a regular salmon recipe again after trying this one! This creamy salmon recipe is low-carb and Keto friendly – Enjoy!

THE RECIPE

Instructions

Ingredients

To make the creamy garlic Tuscan salmon recipe: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets on both sides with salt and pepper, and sear in the hot pan, flesh-side down first, for 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking. Once salmon fillets are cooked, remove from the pan and set aside

3 salmon fillets 2 teaspoons olive oil 2 tablespoons butter 5 cloves garlic, finely diced 1 small yellow onion, diced 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable broth 5 ounces (150g) jarred sun-dried tomato in oil, drained of oil 1 3/4 cups heavy cream Salt and pepper, to taste 3 cups baby spinach leaves 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

In the same pan, melt the butter in the remaining cooking juices leftover. Add in the garlic and fry until fragrant (about one minute). Add onion and stir fry until translucent. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and fry for 1-2 minutes so they release their flavors. Finally, pour in the vegetable broth, and allow the sauce to reduce down slightly. Reduce heat to low, add the heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. Season the cream sauce with salt and pepper to your taste. Add in the baby spinach and allow to wilt in the sauce, and add in the Parmesan cheese. Allow cream sauce to simmer for a further minute until cheese melts through. 81

Roasted Cauliflower

with Olive & Garlic Pasta You're going to love this easy meatless dinner! Perfect for meatless Mondays! While the cauliflower is roasting to perfect sweetness, you cook your pasta of choice. Then this Roasted Cauliflower and Garlic Pasta comes together in a snap! So easy!

Ingredients 1 small Cauliflower, trimmed and chopped 1 cup black Spanish olives 1 head garlic, peeled 2 Tbsp. rosemary leaves 1 tsp. dried chili flakes 1 tsp. shredded lemon zest ¼ CUP (60ML) OLIVE OIL 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar 1/2 box spaghetti ¼ cup lemon juice ½ cup finely grated Pecorino Romano to serve

Instructions Preheat oven to 400°F. Place the cauliflower, olives, garlic, rosemary, chili, lemon zest, oil and vinegar on a baking tray and toss to coat. Roast for 15–20 minutes or until the cauliflower is golden and crisp. While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water for 8–10 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta and return to the pot. Add the roasted cauliflower mixture and lemon juice and toss to combine. Sprinkle with the Pecorino Romano to serve. Serve with Salmon.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 83

Just for

Mother's Day Celebrations Gifts She'll Treasure

By Kimberly Blaker

The role of mothers in shaping their daughters'

and sons' lives is unsurpassed. Mothers teach

us to love, be strong, be confident, persist, live life to its fullest, and be the best we can be.

Mother's Day is just around the corner. So,

this year give her a gift from your heart and your undivided time to make it a special day she'll treasure. Just remember, the pandemic

isn't over. When choosing a celebration, take into account whether your mom, yourself, and

others involved are fully immunized, and follow pandemic safety protocols.

Serve your mom a scrumptious breakfast or take her out for Mother's Day brunch. If you prepare it yourself, the following menu will be sure to please: fruit salad, juice, waffles or pancakes with her favorite blueberry or strawberry topping, Canadian bacon or fresh sausage, omelets or eggs benedict, homemade hash browns, and coffee cake or Danishes. Also, don't forget the fresh cut flowers for the table centerpiece.

What better way to spend a spring day than together in your mother's garden? Pick up her favorite annuals and perennials: begonias, petunias, violets, morning glories, poppies, marigolds, snapdragons, or mums. Then enjoy a relaxing day together, planting and sprucing up her flower garden and catching up on old times.

Give your mom a keepsake that'll be dear to her heart. Purchase Mothers & Daughters: A Record Book About Us to fill out and share with her. Or create your own memory book with a scrapbook or journal. Include photos and memories about special times the two of you have had together; the most important things you remember about your mother from your childhood; how she has inspired you; and the times you look forward to in the future.

If your family is like most, you're well overdue for an updated family portrait. What better time to have it done than on Mother's Day? Schedule to have your family's picture taken at a studio, or hire a photographer for a photo shoot in the park. Coordinate with family members in advance on the formality and color scheme, so outfits don't clash. Inform your mother how to dress for her special day, but keep the specific reason a surprise.

Surprise your mother with tickets to an event she's been dying to see: the ballet, a concert, play or musical, the opera, a favorite sporting event, a comedy show, or dinner theater. Be sure to tell her you have something special planned (but not what), so she'll be all yours for the day.

Mothers spend many years pampering their children giving bubble baths, washing hair, and caring for them when they're ill. Give your mother a special treat, a gift certificate for pampering at the spa where she can enjoy a Swedish massage, hair design, a sea spa manicure and pedicure, or a soothing facial.

Put together a weekend package designed especially for your mom. Choose a city that offers excellent shopping, art museums and cultural centers, or even a quaint historic town with neat shops, cafes, and parks. Leave the dates for the getaway open so she can make the trip at her convenience, or so the two of you can make plans together.

Plan a relaxing day together, enjoying the outdoors. Head to a nearby park where you can meander along nature trails reminiscing or take a scenic bike ride.

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

I realized when you look at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know. -Mitch Albom

Spring is Here For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under Heaven.

Ecclesiates 3:1

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Join us for Mother’s Day Sunday - May 9th Monday Golf & Grill package for two! Located in the newly remodeled Enjoy a little afternoon golf & dinner. club house at Pinecrest Golf Club. Call for details when you book Check us out on Facebook for the dates of our your Monday Tee time. Monthly Wine & Dine.

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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Mark Palmer Electric & Air Conditioning/Heating

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Highlands County Oldest & Largest Health Food Store NATURAL PAIN RELIEF

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10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 91

ESTATE

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

By Elaine Levey Photos Courtesy of Sebring Historical Society

Visiting the Edna Pearce Lockett Estate is a step back in time to John Mizell Pearce, founder of the present-day Pearce Homestead almost 150 years ago. In 1874, he was deeded 157 acres through the Internal Improvement Fund of the State of Florida for a homestead after serving in the Confederate States Army and at the conclusion of the Civil War. The property was located on the Kissimmee River at Fort Basinger. John moved his family and cattle business to the homestead that included an abandoned fort. The Pearce Homestead is now in the hands of private owners to give new life to a historical legacy. The abandoned military fort was built for Zachary Taylor in 1837 to fight the Seminole Indians. The fort was named Fort Basinger for a young U.S. Army man, Lieutenant William E. Basinger who was killed at the Dade City massacre. The fort served as a supply facility for foot soldiers on their way to Okeechobee. John and his wife Martha raised nine children on the homestead. The children were active in the family’s cattle business and some settled on the property in later years. The homestead is one of the earliest settlements in Highlands County and Central Florida and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The first Pearce home was built of pine logs and was abandoned after a period of time for a new and larger home using boards instead of logs and was replaced with the present home around the turn of the century. Along with cattle ranching, John ferried travelers across the Kissimmee River to the town of Basinger a thriving community on the Okeechobee side. Fort Basinger on the Highlands side was also a thriving community having 500 settlers, five general stores, three blacksmith shops, a harness and shoe shop and post office. It was a typical cow town. Both communities are gone.

The Steamboat Era In the 1880s, the Kissimmee River was dredged to provide steamboat service to those living along the river. This was a giant leap for transportation in this settlement. Steamboats came from the town of Kissimmee. There were three weekly steamboats stopping at landings up and down the river delivering goods and supplies and taking orders. Fruit was hauled by steamboats up the river to Kissimmee for packing and then shipped by rail. The steamboats also provided passenger service. The landings were a place to meet new people and learn the latest world news and gossip up and down the river. Captain John owned and operated the last steamboat on the river—the “Mary Belle”. The era of steamboats was pretty much gone by 1915 due to massive highway construction, automobiles and railroads. In 1894, Sid, son of John and Martha, married Mellie Virginia Hollingsworth of Arcadia. They had four children; Leland Clifford, Ruth, Pearl and Edna Mae. When Sid’s father John Mizell died in 1897, Sid and his mother took over the cattle business. His mother built the frame house that remains today. At his mother’s death in 1911, Sid continued to manage the business. He followed in is father’s footsteps in law enforcement and continued ferrying people across the Kissimmee River as his father had done. Sid donated the land and building for the first Fort Basinger School in 1910 ad had the first bridge built across the Kissimmee River in 1916 by the Champion Bridge Company of Wilmington, Ohio. At her brother Clifford’s death in 1934 due to an automobile accident, Edna and her sister’s and sister-in-law became more involved in running the family business. Her father, Sid, had retired. She continued the family business occupying the house her grandmother had built. 94

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

“Lady of the House” Edna became one of Florida’s largest cattle owners. She raised several thousand head of both range and Brahman cattle. She used her father’s P-4 cattle brand. She was the first to herd cattle with a helicopter in Highlands County looking for stray cattle. Edna and her sister Pearl founded the Highlands County Cattlemen’s Association and she was a founding board member of Highlands General Hospital. Edna was a distinguished cattle rancher, an effective legislator and a pioneer for women. She was born at Fort Basinger, Fla. to a Central Florida pioneer family. She grew up on the family’s ranch near the Kissimmee River and was a teacher at the Fort Basinger School. She received the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame award in 1998. Edna was the third woman to serve in the Florida House of Representatives. She served three terms –1950-1953 and was known as the “Lady of the House.” She sponsored a transportation bill to pave U.S. Highway 98, and the construction of a new bridge across the Kissimmee River to replace the bridge that her father had built in 1916. The Kissimmee River Bridge was completed in 1953 and dedicated in honor of her father, William Sydney Pearce. Edna Pearce Lockett ended her legislative career when she married William J. Lockett, a London wool broker, in 1953. While living in England for the next five years, she returned home twice a year to maintain her cattle business. When her husband retired they returned to her home, the Edna Pearce Lockett Estate, where she continued to run the ranch through her retirement years.

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 95

Heritage Festival 2021

Years

Celebrating Highlands County Centennial

April 17 & 18, 2021

Edna Pearce Lockett Estate, Hwy 98 and the Kissimmee River in Fort Basinger.

Come with your Family for a FUN Day! Gates open 10am–4pm Admission $5 per car

Featuring Entertainment by Tommy Brandt •Color Guard Presentation •Artisans •Food Vendors •Antique Cars •Craft Vendors •Great Entertainment

•Educational Exhibits •Quilt Displays & Quilt Turning •Liberty Tree Dedication •Informational Speakers •Cow Camp •Much More...

Sponsor and Vendor Opportunities are still available.

For more information: Email: info@heritageassociation.org

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

www.HeritageAssociation.org COVID 19 Protocols will be followed

George A. Hall Devon P. Donaldson GeoDev Pizza, Inc.

863-386-1177 Sales Service Installation Dryer Vent Cleaning Passionate About Customer Satisfaction

863-699-5455 www.MillersCentralAir.com

LIC. NO. CAC058675

24 Hour Emergency Service

935 Sebring Square - Sebring, FL

*The Wells Fargo Home Projects® credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank N.A., an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 8/1/2019 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 12/31/2020

Florida Fence Post Co., Inc. Serving Central Florida since 1946.

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1-800-580-1019

“Our Posts Meet The Federal Standards!” CCA .40 Ret.

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We’ll help you plan a financial strategy to enjoy it.

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Retirement Income Strategies • Wealth Management Annuities • Investments • IRA/401(k) Rollovers Asset Protection Strategies • Life Insurance Tax-Efficient Strategies • Long-Term Care Strategies IRA Legacy Planning Statler Financial is made up of qualified financial professionals who are passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their ideal retirements.

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863-382-0037

25 Year Limited Guarantee “Branded for Your Protection”

5251 State Road 64 West/ P.O. Box 645 Ona, Florida 33865

863-382-0037

147 S. Ridgewood Dr. • Sebring, FL 33870 Phillip Statler

www.statlerfinancial.com

Investment advisory services offered through Statler Financial Services, Inc.

10 Year Anniversary 2012-2021 97

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Celebrating 50

gratitude, With humble el, Ph.D. Thomas C. Leitz President

015 Years 1965-2

Flyers | Post Cards Magazines | Catalogs Brochures | Publications

Please w s Gro Help U

Name: ________________________________ Address: ________________________________ ________________________________ ______________________________

y t n u o C e e d r a H ommerce

Chamber of C

Phone:

t Phuke ________________________________ spital n HoEmail: io _______________________________ s is M Our Gift Of Love At This Time Is: _________________ How would you like your name to appear on the “Giving Tree”? __________________________ __________________________

Community

Guide

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

& Business Journal

2019

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

2020 Annual Report Heart & Vascular Center AdventHealth Sebring

Established Hunting Ranch in Lake Placid Specializing in white tail deer, wild boar, and alligator hunting year around. We also offer Florida quail hunts!

2,000 acres of native Florida Bays, Pines, Palmettos, and Oaks! South Florida at it’s finest! Eco-Tours Available

Offering Dinners and Daily Tours May-October with reservations !

Weddings - Corporate Retreat - Events

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545 New Boot Heel Road - Venus, FL 33960

www. Floridahuntingoutfitter.com Lightsey Family Ranch

In matters of the heart, it’s ladies first Learn how to stay in front of heart attacks A woman’s heart beats faster than a man’s by almost eight beats a minute. And that’s not the only difference. Women are more likely to experience “atypical” symptoms when their hearts are in distress. Signs of heart attack in women could include: • Nausea or vomiting

• Cold sweats

• Shortness of breath without chest discomfort

• Dizziness

• Pain in arms, upper back, neck,

• Pressure in center of chest

jaw or stomach • Fainting

• Insomnia • Unusual fatigue

When you learn more about your health, you’re learning how to take better care of your incredible self. Take the AdventHealth Heart Risk Assessment today to find out more about your heart and how to keep it healthy at every stage of life.

FloridaHeartExperts.com