Heartland Living Aug-Sep 2016

Heartland LIVING August |September 2016

Your Lifestyle Community Magazine

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August September 2016

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Letter From

THE PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER

A summer in Florida has been in full swing – with the heat at

it’s highest in the day, coupled with those monsoons in the evening.

I know I’ve had my share in Lemon Grove. Many of us spend our days dreaming of spending time on our Florida sandy beaches or traveling to different destinations. So now seems like the perfect time to share our travels and what makes our state so great, especially in the summer. Hope you enjoy our adventures!

Pastor David Juliano from First United Methodist Church of Sebring approached me about the opportunity of Heartland LIVING sending someone from our team with the volunteers from the churches on their mission trip to Harbour Island in the Bahamas. You can bet I started putting everything in motion for us not to miss out on this adventure that was an honor. A huge thank you to Amber Foster Callaham for taking time out of her summer to capture two sisters’ dream for the children of the Bahamas and to all the volunteers that took their time to bring Vacation Bible School to the Island.

Sarasota is internationally known as the city to discover, explore and experience an abundance of hidden treasures from circus performances, wild animals, food, fine art and much more. And before the sun sets on summer while exploring Sarasota take the time to enjoy a day on the #1 ranked beach in the US, Siesta Key Beach. It is one of my favorite cities and beaches to visit.

Continuing to explore our Sunshine State with palm trees, gulf breezes, sun-kissed hair are just a few things that come to mind to Chelsea McMillian when she created her apparel brand “Sunshine State®." Chelsea is a native Floridian that grew up on the sunny beaches of Clearwater, Florida. She launched her new line the first day of summer and we were so impressed with her story we wanted to share it with our readers.

We hope you enjoy the story on our local well-established charities in the communities of the Heartland.

The generosity of people that give back is amazing. Please take a moment and read about all the charities, churches and faith-based organizations that take their time to volunteer and/or donate to their hometown.

Heartland LIVING is honored to be asked to be the Official Magazine promoting CountryFlo Music & Camping Festival coming in November to Florida. This is a huge event and will be a family fun event held at the Triple Canopy Ranch in Lake Wales. Check out all the information inside this issue and stay tuned for more to come.

I can’t end without thanking my team for their hard work and continued support. Thanks to all my advertisers because without you Heartland LIVING would just be a vision. To all my readers for your support, I give you a huge hug.

God Bless,

Cindy Sebring Adams

Heartland LIVING'S Amber Foster Callaham boards a plane, heading to the Bahamas to cover "The Dream of Zion" story.

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Dentistry from Infancy to Adolescence Your child’s health is important and finding a positive relationship between kids and their dentist is a good way to build lifelong healthy habits.

Melissa Kindell, DMD, makes every child who visits feel welcome and comfortable and is dedicated to educating and providing quality treatment to maintain your child's oral health.

¡ Preventative Care ¡ Restorative Dentistry ¡ In-Office Sedation ¡ Interceptive Orthodonic Treatment ¡ Extractions ¡ Emergency Dental Treatment ¡ New Patient Exams Dental care for special needs and medically compromised patients.

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

www.evergladespedodent.com Most insurances are accepted and emergencies are welcome.

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Flatwood Natives is a habitat solutions company specializing in high-quality mast producing trees for hunting success.

Flatwood Natives provides everything the landowner needs to properly install tree plots that will thrive and provide long-term food sources that wildlife crave.

Flatwood Natives offers both hard and soft mast species for your wildlife. Their trees are hardier, withstand transplant shock better and they use proven planting methods that give your tree every chance to survive.

Flatwood Natives nursery, located in central Florida, owned and operated by 5th generation Floridians with over 30 years combined experience.

Flatwood Natives offers a variety of packages that cater to specific conditions, or they leave it to you to choose what’s best for your properties.

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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CONTENTS 34

46

80 FEATURES 18

The Dream of Zion

By Amber Foster Callaham

34

Giving in the Heartland

By Pamela Glinski

46

Discover Sarasota

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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By Katy Fassler

18

80

Heart of the Matter

By Pamela Glinski

August | September 2016 Volume V | Issue 4

64

110

Inspired by the South 64 Sunshine State 96 Taste of the South Shrimp & Grits

Columns 94

Hotel Review

98

Showcasing The Arts

112

114

109 Heartland Scene 110

District 7 Machine Pitch All-Star Championship

112

Sun 'N Lake Independence Day Celebration

114

Florida Airboat Unity Ride

Residence Inn by Marriott Smithsonian Main Street

100

Healthy Living

102

Southern Chef

Tips to Keep You Moving Southern Recipes

12 Behind the Scenes 104 Dining Guide 118 Heartland Calendar of Events

Heartland LIVING August |September 2016

On the cover, Sunshine State

Heartland LIVING

Photo by Zach Ashton

August September 2016

Story on page 64 Your Lifestyle Community Magazine

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Ryan Beasley, CPA Tax & Business Management Partner

Tom Bryant, CPA | Senior Tax Partner

owner/operator: Overkill Hill Farms,LLC

You know that Tom and Ryan’s first hand knowledge of the specific needs of farmers and ranchers — from sole proprietors through some of the largest cattle producers in the nation, is put to use for you. You know they can provide you with a detailed cost analysis study helping you achieve confidence that your business planning model is financially sound with books in order. Now let them go that step from CPA to CFO for you. Give them full range to function as your CFO and reap the benefits!

Let them provide you with all the critical data needed to make strategic financial decisions and guide management. Let them help you see where you stand in comparison to your competitors, and give you benchmarks to assess your performance.

NOW is the time to call! Work with agricultural experts with CPA and CFO Heartland capabilities — protect and grow your investment!

LIVING August Call today - sChedule a meeting - We’ll Come to you September 2016

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Behind the Scenes Bridgette K. Waldau has been a graphic

Art Director

and fine artist for over 30 years. She moved from Illinois to South Florida in 1972. 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 studio, Bridgette Waldau Studio of Art. Bridgette has been creative director for several publications, working with Heartland Publications & Marketing as creative director since 2011 and winning four Florida Magazine Charlie Awards in 2015. Bridgette is also very active in the community. She is arts and culture director of Okeechobee Main Street (11 years) and member of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. Bridgette is married to James, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.

Jessica Pleger is a wife, mother, editor,

Editorial Director

Pamela Glinski is a freelance writer and

Rafael Pacheco I am a Pisces and was born

Photography Director

on the island of Puerto Rico, but ironically I can’t swim. 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. Keep me away from triple layer chocolate cakes, flan or Oreos. They are my kryptonites. The 70’s were peaceful, the 80’s were rocking, the 90’s were military and the new millennium is inspiring. 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

Layne Prescott Layne was born into a

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Writer

military family, has lived overseas but did most of her growing up in Arcadia. After meeting and marrying Mike Prescott, she moved to Wauchula in 1979, where they raised three children and now are reaping the benefits of their labor with six sweet grandchildren. As a child, Layne loved watching her mother and grandmother in the kitchen. Her cooking style is eclectic and best described as “Southern comfort cuisine”. Of course her husband Mike says that he made her “Chef” that she is today.

Her greatest joy comes from three things: her faith, loving on her family, and getting in the kitchen and “whipping” up something good.

writer and caterer. She attended the University of Central Florida where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and worked as a paralegal for the past 15 years. She also is the owner and operator of Pink Pineapple Catering that allows her to fulfill her passions for cooking and entertaining. Jessica enjoys taking photographs 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. In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors, traveling and spending time with family.

Writer

photographer from Sebring, Florida. A former website administrator for CI Interactive Website Design and Internet Marketing in Naples, Florida, Pam attended Miami Dade Community College. This Michigan native is an avid outdoor enthusiast who can often be found photographing wildlife at Highlands Hammock State Park or in her own yard on Lake Sebring. Friends and family describe Pam as a great home chef who knows how to throw a dinner party. Because of her passion for travel, adventure, and great last-minute deals, Pam has been on numerous cruises and has traveled throughout the United States, Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

Katy Fassler has been telling stories since she was able to scribble her name in crayon on the wall. Hailing from Akron, Ohio, she moved to Sebring in 2006 to attend the Great Commission Bible Institute. Katy, an avid reader and book collector lives by Dr. Seuss’ advice, “Fill your house with stacks of books, in all the crannies and all the nooks.” Katy and her husband, Sean, live in Sebring with their two daughters, Adia and Emery.

Adam Glinski has been a fitness enthusiast

Writer

for numerous years and an industry professional in the Sebring area since 2013.

As the founder of RUC Fitness, LLC, Adam serves his community with customized personal training, meal plans, and fitness apparel. Adam enjoys traveling, running, the outdoors, and is a member of the Florida Army National Guard.

August | September 2016

Amber Foster Callaham lives in Lakeland, FL,

Photographer Writer

with her husband and Goldendoodle Hank. She graduated with her masters in school counseling at the University of Central Florida and is an elementary school counselor at a title I school in Bartow, FL. Helping and being an advocate for disadvantaged children is her passion and what she feels the Lord has led her to do. In her free time she enjoys gardening, reading, traveling and photography. In 2012 a friend taught her how to use her Nikon and she hasn't been able to put it down since. Weddings, engagements, families and children are some of her favorite moments to capture.

Caroline Maxcy Fox runs a fine art lifestyle

Photographer

Photographer

photography business based in the heart of Florida.

After achieving her Bachelors in Studio Art from Florida State University where she focused on Design and Photography, she practiced in the field of design for six years before pursuing her Masters in Graphic Design at North Carolina State University in 2010. It was through this journey that she honed her artistic craft and developed a “way of seeing” that fuels her photography today. Caroline’s images have been featured on wedding and lifestyle blogs worldwide.

But the true heart of her work lies in her pursuits to glorify God and “give back” through educational and charitable endeavors. Caroline has donated her time and talents to capture images and tell stories from rural communities in Peru to orphanages in Mexico to her own backyard.”

Katara Simmons I am an adventure seeker and a proud mom. My passions are capturing life moments on camera and raising my 10-year-old son Kaden.

Professionally, I have 15 years of experience as a staff photographer for local newspapers and with my own business a Sebring-based photography studio, Kaptured by Katara. My special talents are shooting people, editorial content, and marketing images. I'm a Highlands county native and enjoy meeting people and exploring places around the world. When I'm not taking pictures, I am helping grow my family's business, Sebring Wholesale Meats.

Sharon Cannon is a professional photographer

Photographer

as well as a licensed aesthetician and makeup artist.

Her passion has always been photography. She is an award winning photographer having transitioned from amateur to professional in 2010 when she was contacted by local publications to photograph events in the local area. She is a member of Okeechobee Main Street, on the arts and cultural committee. Sharon has lived in Okeechobee for many years, and has one son, Karl. “I love the history of our little town. I want to preserve all of our ‘todays’ through the lens of my camera, for our future ‘tomorrows’.”

Heartland

LIVING

August | September 2016 Volume V | Issue 4 CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams Editorial Director Jessica Pleger Creative | Art Director Bridgette Waldau Feature Writers Amber Foster Callaham Katy Fassler Pamela Glinski Jessica Pleger Contributing Writers Adam Glinski Layne Prescott Bridgette Waldau Photography Director Rafael Pacheco Cover | Feature Photographer Zach Ashton Feature Photographers Amber Foster Callaham Caroline Maxcy Fox Pamela Glinski Katara Simmons Photographers Sharon Cannon Belanger Media Group Published By Heartland Publications & Marketing 412 Rest Haven Road Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 863-781-0344 E-mail Cindy@Heartland-Living.com Become a fan on facebook.

Visit us at www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

Florida Magazine Association

Winner of 2014 & 2015 FMA Charlie Awards

Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing.

Copyright 2016, 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. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Written and photographed by Amber Foster Callaham

t was just a dream. Something for Earmily Munroe and Geleta Turnquest, two sisters from Current Island in the Bahamas, to think about, talk about, and dream about. It was a dream not for them, but for the forgotten, abused and neglected children of the Bahamas.

With prayer, perseverance and support from others, the sisters’ dream became more, it became reality and Zion Children’s Home was born.

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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unroe and Turnquest grew up watching their mother care for many of Current Island’s children. In addition to raising her nine children, Munroe and Turnquest’s mother provided a safe home for children when their parents temporarily left the area to pursue work or educational opportunities. She housed these children for weeks or even months at a time. The sisters grew up watching their mother lovingly care for many children, and saw firsthand the power of their mother’s ministry. Little did they know, they would be doing the same thing one day.

As they got older, the sisters started their own lives and God continued preparing them. Munroe had five children of her own and worked tirelessly at the local church. Turnquest became a teacher, worked at social services, started and taught an adult literacy program. Although Turnquest had a busy schedule, she found the time to do what her mother taught her and her sister, to help others.

Looking after children for short periods of time was something she enjoyed. She loved it so much she decided to become a foster parent. She quickly filled out and submitted the necessary paperwork, she just needed the government to process the paperwork.

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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urnquest waited many months for the paperwork to be processed but a response never came. During this time of waiting, the sisters began dreaming. The sisters thought if the government was not going to process Turnquest’s paperwork, then they would open a home for children.

This dream sparked excitement in the sisters and together they created a proposal for a children’s home on Current Island.

The sisters took their proposal to the government.

Initially, the government was hesitant and wanted the children’s home on a more populated island. Current Island – a narrow island, no more than seven miles long and less than a mile wide in most places – sits off the northwest tip of Eleuthera, one of the larger islands in the archipelago known as The Bahamas. It is one of many ‘family islands’ or ‘out islands’, islands whose residents are all related. If someone outside the family wants to move to the island they must first receive the family’s permission. These family islands are scarcely populated, untouched and quiet and Current Island is no exception.

Currently, 30 to 40 family members live on Current Island.

The sisters were not happy about the government’s hesitance. They believed that obstacles highlighted by the government were, in fact, reasons Current Island would provide a safe oasis for the children. For example, only a single ferry captained by the sister’s Uncle Pat, Heartland service the island. Instead of seeing a logistical limitation, LIVING the sisters understood that the single ferry ensured August that they could monitor who came and left the island. September 2016 Turnquest and Munroe were not going to allow the government’s initial hesitance stop them.

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s deacons of the local Methodist Church they decided to present their proposal at The Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church’s next meeting. By the end of the meeting they were given the Conference’s full support. The people of Current Island set aside ten acres of land, the Conference helped obtain the government’s cooperation, and the project gathered speed.

Reverend Eugene Zimmermann, a retired Methodist minister, heard about the sister’s dream and wanted to help. Prior to retiring, he served as a minister at First United Methodist Church Orlando. Although he retired from full-time ministry in 1992, he never stopped ministering.

In 2008, he invited Turnquest and Munroe to Orlando to present their proposal for the children’s home to local groups. The Father’s Table Foundation in Sanford, Florida liked the sister’s proposal and gave a $50,000 matching grant.

Reverend Zimmermann then visited Methodist churches and reached out to charitable organizations throughout the United States. These organizations were inspired by the sister’s dream and together gave $50,000. By the end of 2009 the sisters raised $100,000. In 2010, Winter Park architect Robert Miller of R. Miller Architecture, Inc. donated plans for the building.

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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onstruction on the building began in 2011. To help reduce costs, the general contractor waived his fee and his construction crew agreed to work for half of their normal pay. The Bahamian government even allowed the building materials to be shipped to Current Island duty-free. In total, the construction crews built two houses, each capable of housing eight children and three staff members. Construction took nearly three years and on March 14, 2014, the sister’s opened Zion Children’s Home to its first occupants.

Currently, Zion Children’s Home receives enough money from the government and private donations to operate one of the two houses. Turnquest and Munroe decided to ask Alicia Munroe, Munroe’s youngest daughter, to serve as the house parent.

She was chosen based on her love for the Lord and her concern for the wellbeing of children. Being the house parent is not an easy task. Office work, finances, grocery shopping, organizing group visits, clothing and keeping up with each child’s medical and dental needs are just a few of Alicia’s duties.

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hen asked about the hardest part of her job Alicia answered, “Training the kids.” She spoke about how all the children come from different homes and experiences, and how some carry significant baggage.

Alicia simply tries to love the children and teach them the values she learned from her mother and aunt. When asked about her favorite part of her job Alicia excitedly said, “Meeting people! That’s the best part of the job. The kids also get to meet the different people that come through and love on them.”

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In April 2015 a small group from First United Methodist Church of Sebring visited Zion Children’s Home. The team fell in love with the children and people at Zion Children’s Home and knew that they wanted to concentrate the church’s mission’s work on helping the home.

“The story of Zion itself is so captivating. It captures your heart and imagination” said Reverend David Juliano. In August 2015 a team from Sebring visited the home to help with maintenance and add a hydroponic garden. This past July, First United Methodist Church of Sebring organized a team of 41 individuals to travel to The Bahamas.

The team members came from churches in Jonesborough, Tennessee; Bloomfield, Virginia; Albany, Georgia and Sebring, Florida.

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he team had two goals: to host a Vacation Bible School on Harbour Island and to run a carnival to raise money for Zion Children’s Home. Vacation Bible School was a huge success. Each day nearly 200 children came to Harbour Island to attend Vacation Bible School. The children heard Bible stories, memorized scripture, played games, had arts and crafts and were served a free lunch. The carnival was also a success. The team members ran 15 booths that included a bean-bag toss, balloon darts and face painting. Perhaps the most popular attraction was the large blow up water slide in the splash zone. The water slide was shipped to Harbour Island from the United States for the carnival. All of the money raised at the carnival will be used to help open the second house at Zion Children’s Home.

According to the sisters and all involved, the dream of Zion Children’s Home is not done. Their short term goal is to open the second house.

They also hope to build a multi-purpose building in the near future.

With the second house opening soon they will need a space for administrative work and a common place for all the children to gather.

The long-term goal is to build six additional houses and host sixty-four children. Reverend Juliano and the First United Methodist Church of Sebring also have a vision for Zion Children’s Home. They would like to see a network of churches, “Friends of Zion,” working together to fulfill the sisters’ dream. This dream that started ten years ago is only at the beginning. Turnquest, Munroe and all of Zion Children’s Home’s supporters plan to continue working together to help what started out as a dream, become a full and complete reality.

www.RecycleOftenRecycleRight.com

Recycling Starts with our Youth

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Maybe it’s time to rethink recycling.

Doing just these 3 things will make a huge difference

“Recycling Rockstars” from Central Elementary take the recycling pledge.

Mrs. Fulleda and Mrs. Jones with Public Relations Manager Teresa Bishop.

863-357-0824 Fax: 863-357-0772

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By Pamela Glinski The generosity of people in the United States is amazing. 'Giving USA: The Annual Report on Philanthropy in America,' said that with the upswing in the economy, donations in this country have hit record levels for the past two years, with over one billion dollars donated to non-profit organizations, faith-based charities, and educational institutions every day.

That is why charity, for some, has become a business, with large salaries for CEOs and huge amounts of money spent on operational funds, lavish fundraisers, and solicitations like telemarketers, TV ads, and direct mailings, continually asking for help. But how do many people really know how their donation is used or what portion of their gift will actual help those facing crisis, hunger or homelessness?

One way to know is to give locally to well-established non-profits, church mission groups, and faith-based organizations that give back to their own communities, feeding the hungry, training and assisting the disabled, or helping build a home for someone that needs a hand-up. “You know it starts with a house; you have that stability and that strength of having a home. Then you can work on the rest, and make your life improve. Having that home base and stability is really vital to people succeeding in life,� said Jane Breylinger, the Executive Director of DeSoto County Habitat for Humanity in Arcadia. „

DeSoto County Habitat for Humanity in Arcadia

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Highlands County Habitat for Humanity

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DeSoto Habitat will build five new homes this year, as well as doing critical home repairs on five others. They also do remodels to make homes handicap accessible. “People that are aging in their homes have different needs, and we are addressing that so they can stay in their homes,” Breylinger explained.

A major source of income for the DeSoto Habitat is their 'Restore' located at 114 N. Polk Ave. in Arcadia. Volunteers are critical to the success of the thrift shop which only has two full-time employees and three paid truck drivers. The rest of the operation is handled by volunteers who logged 1864 hours of labor just during June.

“The 'Restore' actually pays all of our administrative costs, so when a donor donates to Desoto Habitat 100 percent of their donation goes to building homes for families. That was our goal, and we've been able to do that,” Breylinger said.

DeSoto Habitat has also partnered with Arcadia based Desoto Cares Homeless Services, a homeless advocacy group that operates completely on individuals and community partners donations. They provide crisis intervention, counseling, personal care and give the chronically homeless assistance connecting with local resources.

“We have had no help for the homeless in our community to provide services they need, whether it is showers or laundry or transportation. That's why we have become a

sponsor for this group and support them,” Breylinger said.

“We spread ourselves around. We worry about people that need houses, people that have houses that need to be fixed up, and people that don't have anything at all.”

Since 1990, Highlands County Habitat for Humanity has served over 200 families with either home ownership or home rehabilitation. This year's projects include three homes being built in Lake Placid and three in Sebring.

They also offer credit and home ownership counseling and provide their clients 20 year mortgages with no fees or interest.

“We are not only the builder, we are the bank,” explained Highlands Habitat Executive Director Sarah Pallone. “They do have to put in 400 hours of what we call sweat-equity that is considered their down payment. At least 100 hours of those hours have to be worked on their own home,” Owners pay principle, taxes, and insurance and make a 20-year commitment to stay in the home.

The non-profit depends heavily on area residents, as well as Care-a-Vaneer RV Winter residents and Collegiate Challenge Spring Break volunteers, to get the homes built. They also rely on cash, business in-kind donations of construction materials, and profits from their Restore at 159 S. Commerce Ave. in Sebring.

Approximately 75 percent of the Habitat Restore workforce

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is made up of volunteers. “We want people to know that when they give to us, 100 percent of that money is staying locally, that our Restore covers 100 percent of our operating cost. What is left over goes strictly toward home construction,” emphasized Pallone.

clothing, furniture. Forty percent of our budget for the year is funded by our two thrift stores in Dundee and Lake Wales,” explained Morrow. The organization is also supported by fundraisers such as ‘Run Like You Care 5/10K’ and their annual golf tournament.

In Polk County, the Lake Wales Care Center, at 140 E. Park Ave., is a faith-based ministry that has been “building bridges between people in need and people with a desire to serve” for 31 years. “In 2015, we had 2100 volunteers that did 88,000 volunteer hours,” said Mike Morrow, Director of Resource Development.

Hospice of Okeechobee began over 30 years as a community hospice that provided support to those in their final days/ hours. Established in 1983, the Hospice of Okeechobee was founded by a group of local individuals who saw the need for hospice care in Okeechobee. Working out of the funeral home, Paul Buxton and two friends Fran Syfrett and Dorothy Bulger would go to peoples homes and provide support for the patient and the family. Over time, hospice became regulated and a formal business, so these three took on the work of creating a board of directors and getting the necessary licenses, and all the many different permits and numbers to operate a formal hospice. The staff provides care either in the person’s home or at The Hamrick Home, a 12 bed hospice home with in-home nurses and a “next best thing to home” environment.

The Care Center's programs offer transitional housing in 21 apartments at five properties, provide mentoring and job training for the homeless, give support to expectant mothers at the Choices Pregnancy Care Clinic, and sponsor weekly events and music at their Youth Coffee House. “This summer we are also doing a Stay at Home Work Camp, where we come and do home repair projects for people in the community that can't afford to hire professionals,” Morrow said. The organization is also the contracted provider for Meals on Wheels in Frostproof, Lake Wales and Dundee.

“There are many ways people can give back to their community. They can of course do it financially, but also by donating items they don't want or need any more,

Lake Wales Care Center

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In order to provide five star hospice care, Hospice of Okeechobee holds several fundraisers throughout the year. Two fundraisers are the Boots & Pearls Gala, a dinner and dance with a silent auction and live auction of art work by local artists and the annual Festival of Trees, where trees are decorated and donated by individuals,

Lake Wales Care Center

youth organizations and companies and sold through a silent auction. Hospice of Okeechobee also raises funds through their Yard Sale, held twice a month and also in the Hospice Boutique. Items sold are donations from people in the community.

The proceeds of the fundraising events and donations from the community go directly to the care of patients and families who receive hospice care. In Okeechobee "The hospice services we provide plus the community wide free counseling and support services are sustained by a generous community that understands giving and caring for one another is a part of the Okeechobee way of life” said CEO Gail Gerntrup.

Approximately 150 people with disabilities are served in Highlands County on a daily basis by Ridge Area ARC, located at 120 W. College Drive in Avon Park. “The mission of Ridge Area ARC is serving and advocating for individuals with developmental and other disabilities so they may have the opportunity to choose and realize their goals,” stated CEO Rhonda Beckman, who began her career with ARC in Illinois before moving to Florida in 1995. “ARC provides adult-day-training services on our main camp campus on college Drive and also at the ARC Resale store on Main Street in Avon Park.”

The non-profit organization's 73 employees and 40 volunteers man the ARC Resale Store, Screen Printing Operation, the training programs, or help with the summer youth program.

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Hospice of Okeechobee

ARC also provides housing at five group homes, with six to eight residents in each home who receive 24 hour care, training and supervision. Supported Living services, training, and assistance are available for individuals that want to live on their own, and Supported Employment services help disabled individuals who choose to work.

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Funding for Ridge Area ARC comes mainly from a state and federal matching program called a Medicaid Waiver and state funding from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities and the Department of Transportation. Profits from the Resale Store and ARC's Screen Printing operation, as well as three annual fundraisers (Kokomo dinner-dance and auction in April, Halloween 5/10K in Oct., Sebring Derby in Nov.) help subsidize vital services.

Ridge Area ARC

NU-HOPE Elder Care Services in Sebring provides services to clients 60 years or older (at no-cost or for a sliding-scale fee) that are meant to enhance their lives and help them to continue living independently. The Florida Department of Elder Affairs considers this private, non-profit organization the lead agency for providing comprehensive community-based services and at-home services in Hardee and Highlands County. “Annually we provide services for over 800 seniors and their caregivers here in Highlands County alone,� said Executive Director Ingrasherese Gardner. She added that approximately 100 clients are helped in Hardee where funding is lower. Services include personal care, homemaking, respite for caregivers, case management, emergency alert, home „

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NU-HOPE Elder Care Services

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improvements, and providing nutritional counseling, education, and meals.

“We provided nutrition to 455 seniors last year,” Gardner noted of the 62,000 home delivered meals as well as 14,000 meals provided annually at five designated meal centers in Highlands and one in Hardee.

Gardner praised NU-HOPES nearly 100 volunteers that work as drivers for the meal delivery program, instructors for art and exercise classes, and at their thrift stores.

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With an annual budget need of 2.5 million dollars, it is imperative for the non-profit organization to raise $350,000 each year to receive matching funds from state and federal grants. Money is raised at two annual fundraisers, through corporate and personal giving, and the profit from the thrift stores in Sebring and Lake Placid.

“We simply could not provide all of these services if we did not have those thrift stores and the support of the communities,” Gardner said.

She added that the town of Lake Placid donated land for a 3000 sq. ft. store addition. Planners and an area engineer also donated their service for the expansion, and ground breaking was in June.

“What is important is that non-profit organizations such as NU-HOPE, Habitat, and ARC provide services for our community,” Gardner said. “We are neighbors helping neighbors.”

Giving is very personal, with the reasons for caring as varied as the charities seeking help. Knowing who you are giving to and how your time, talents, money and gifts are being used may make the experience even more satisfying.

Heartland LIVING Photography by Pamela Glinski and also from the non-profit and giving organizations.

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The Place to be on the Gulf Coast

By Katy Fassler Photography by Caroline Maxcy Fox

rom snow white beaches, to circus performances and wild animals, Sarasota proudly offers an abundance of hidden treasures for the local and the traveler to discover. With its beautiful sunsets, miles of sandy beaches, and memorable attractions, Sarasota is internationally known as a city to discover, explore and experience. Here is just a taste of all Sarasota has to offer. „

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Ranked in the top 25 beaches in the US and #1 in Florida, Siesta Key is a beach to discover. Sink your toes into powdery white sand and swim in the clear blue water. Surround yourself in the beach life and soak up the sun. Amenities include lifeguards, free beach wheelchairs for those with special needs, picnicking areas, beach volleyball, and more. Parking is available, but come early. As one of the best beaches in the US it is a popular place to be. „

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Visit The Ringling and be transported to another time and place. Get lost in the 66 acre estate of John and Mable Ringling. Located on the property are a museum of art, a circus museum, a rose garden, a mansion and an Asian art center. The Ringling is administered by Florida State University and is “home to one of the preeminent art and cultural collections in the United States.” Kids of all ages will enjoy the live performances and hands on activities. For ticketing info, hours and pricing, visit www.Ringling.org

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Located on the grounds of The Ringling stands a mansion built as home of John and Mabel Ringling. Inspired by the Venetian Gothic style of the palazzi in Venice, Italy and designed by noted New York architect Dwight James Baum, the 36,000 sq. ft. mansion is a popular home to explore.

Construction began in 1924 and was completed 2 years later.

The mansion proudly stands at 5 stories tall and features 41 rooms and 15 bathrooms. Ca’ d’Zan or “House of John” is a must visit to every Sarasota traveler. Local tip: For additional fees, guided tours are available of the home to explore and experience entire floors and private rooms not open to standard admission holders.

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After spending the day at the beach, visit St. Armands Circle for a unique shopping and dining experience. Noted for its specialty shops, fine dining restaurants and statues given to the city from John Ringling, the circle is a must for everyone. Insider tip: shop, eat amazing food but leave room for the local’s favorite- ice cream!

For a directory and special events calendar, visit www.starmandscircleassoc.com

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Columbia Restaurant: While strolling and taking in the sights of St. Armands Circle, make sure to visit Sarasota’s oldest restaurant. Eat lunch or dinner surrounded by the classic elegance and Spanish flare of this local favorite. Named one of the top 25 Restaurants in Florida, experiencing The Columbia is a must. Local tip: order the “1905 Salad” and be sure to make reservations if you can! Don’t forget to visit the gift shop.

Available for purchase are salad dressings and seasonings as well as unique gifts imported from Spain. For hours, menu and to make a reservation, visit www.columbiaresaurant.com World of Beer: New to the Sarasota area is the popular franchise, World of Beer. Known for its vast assortment of beer, this bar is a popular destination for beer lovers! The bar boasts more than 300 flavors of beer on draft and bottled.

Beers from around the world and local breweries are available to try. Insider tip: World of Beer has a phenomenal and knowledgeable staff. If you want to venture into new brews, rely on them to help select a new beer. For hours and location, visit www.worldofbeer.com

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Founded in 1955 by Eugenie Clark, a pioneer in scuba diving research, Mote is Sarasota’s independent and non-profit home for research, education and hands on fun of all Florida’s marine life. Children and adults can see and enjoy over 100 species of sea life, watch live shark feedings, touch sting rays and urchins, and learn about conservation and scientific research. Manatees and river otters are local favorites. Unlike most aquariums, guests are invited to experience life on the water through boat tours, guided kayak tours, and private charters. For more information, visit www.mote.org

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Get ready for Back to School!

Tania Urrelys

863-832-0761 Let us help make your skin beautiful for school!

Visit my online store at www.worldwidebeautybiz.myrandf.com Check out my team at:

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Miss Cindy’s Gardens Beautiful Garden & Lake Setting for Your Special Events

We want to share our piece of paradise with you.

863-991-5903

Weddings - Events Photo Shoots

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Explore 10 acres of winding trails, exotic animals and tropical landscaping in one of the oldest, continuously operated family attractions. The Jungle Gardens are home to more than 200 native and exotic animals including birds, primates, large and small reptiles and small mammals. For more information, visit www.sarasotajunglegardens.com

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We can make your Wedding memorable!

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Tires - Wheels Auto Repairs Truck Accessories Tool Boxes - Fuel Tanks

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The Law Office Of

Michael L. Keiber, PA Probate - Estate Planning - Elder Law Civil Litigation - Real Estate

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FREE Initial Consultation

2557 US 27 S. - Sebring, FL 33870-2125

Join the OK Corral Gun Club for the inaugural LABOR DAY JUBILEE Country Shrimp Boil. This signature series event will be a lively mix of shooting sports, a classic low country boil and live music.

Monday, September 5, 2016

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Sunshine State Goods

By Jessica Pleger Photography by Zach Ashton

Vintage and Edgy Apparel

By Jessica Pleger Photography by Zach Ashton

Palm trees, gulf breeze, sun-kissed hair and salty air, these are just some things that come to mind when thinking about the wonderful state of Florida and the mantra behind the origin of a cool and eclectic new clothing brand, Sunshine State®. According to Founder, Chelsea McMillan, it’s not an apparel brand; it’s a state of mind.

"I love that the brand has an emotional connection.

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e say that Sunshine State is "an expression of love for our beaches, surf, coastal waters and barrier islands.” The word sunshine alone gives off this good vibe feeling. I’m happiest sitting on a beach in Florida, salty and sticky from swimming and looking out at the water.”

A native Floridian, McMillan grew up on the sunny beaches of Clearwater, Florida and spent summers and free time at her family’s home at the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, a place only accessible by boat and that she refers to as “The Swamp”.

She has since traveled the country following her dreams and gathering a magnitude of knowledge and experience, most of which would be Heartland considered dream jobs to many of us. LIVING Chelsea McMillan, Sunshine State Founder

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he was the producer of The Oprah Show for 5 years. When the cold became too much for her Florida blood, she moved to California where she helped Alyssa Milano launch her athletic line, Touch. These are just a couple great experiences that she has accomplished that have taken her travels from the small quaint towns in Colorado to the sunny coast of California and eventually back to her hometown of Clearwater.

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Over the past years she spent time with inspirational women from all walks of life. She recently spent time with musician and style connoisseur Holly Williams, daughter of music icon Hank Williams Jr. She owns White’s Mercantile in Nashville and her style is the perfect mix of country and rock and roll. She utilizes a variety of muscle tees and comfort in her style which is very similar to McMillan’s style. Another fashion trailblazer that has inspired McMillan’s preppy side is Lilly Pulitzer. Pulitzer’s story of making her own boldly colored dresses to cover the stains on her clothing while working a juice stand for her husband’s orange groves in Palm Beach is the ultimate tale of success for women in the clothing industry.

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ince moving back home, McMillan has collaborated with her very dear friend and Spanx Founder, Sara Blakely who is also a Clearwater native. McMillan was so inspired by Blakely’s dedication to giving back and supporting women’s causes that she helped her produce The Belly Art Project, a photo book that debuts in October and 100% of the proceeds will benefit Every Mother Counts. It’s amazing what women can do when they work together and share their talents for the common good.

McMillan credits her jobs, travels, friendships, and experiences to leading her to this venture as everywhere she went she noticed residents of their respective state wearing cool clothing that positively represented their state. With her heart always being near and dear to her hometown, McMillan knew that her beloved state needed just that, an apparel line that represents how she feels about the sunshine state. When she jokingly asked a lawyer if Sunshine State was available in apparel, she was shocked and excited to find out it was.

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n the first day of summer, Sunshine State® was launched and currently features men and women’s apparel with comfortable tees, tanks and hats that features expressions of love for our beaches, surf, coastal waters and barrier islands. Her style is vintage and edgy, wanting to create a brand that is relatable for the Florida natives and visitors alike. She is currently collaborating with different artists to create different designs that have the salty Florida vibe. She also has designed a few shirts herself; Island Party, Boat Drinks and the Florida Sunset designs. She wants clever, only in Florida designs to represent her brand. Each order she ships comes with a sea shell that she has collected off the shores of Florida’s beautiful beaches over the years.

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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She wants you to feel just as unique and special as the clothes she has designed for you.

Spending time on the beach and in “The Swamp” throughout her childhood, McMillan became an advocate for Florida Wildlife and became a board member for the Florida Wildlife Corridor. “I was able to really understand the problems Florida’s wildlife face with our state’s growing population. I’m a huge supporter of their goal to connect, protect, and restore corridors of conserved lands and waters essential for the survival of Florida’s diverse wildlife,” states McMillan. With this cause being so close to her heart, she donates a portion of the proceeds of Sunshine State® to support the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Hearing Services Designed f� Your Individual Care Lampe & Kiefer Hearing Aid Center is the oldest established hearing aid office in Highlands County.

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Being a native Floridian, McMillan is learning about all the rich history of our state. She, as was I, was surprised to learn that Florida actually has the longest history of cattle ranching of any state in the US when most of us would think Texas. As she learns more about the history and hears the different tales of old and new Florida, I am excited to see what styles these stories will translate to on print for her upcoming styles. She is definitely a woman on a mission; she has a vision and is making it happen!

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Live, Shop & Play Downtown!

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863.385.5806 Fax 863.385.2319

6555 US HWY 27 South - Sebring, FL 33876

Sept. 30th - Nov. 6th

Friday 5pm - 11pm | Saturday 10am - 11pm Monday - Friday: Field trips and other events by reservation Ages 2 & under free | Ages 3 & up $11.95 + tax Other packages and group discounts available

Admission price includes all of the following attractions and more!

5 Acre Maze Jumping Pillow Pig Races Playground Spider Web Duck Races Ball Zone Cow Train Rat Rollers Hayride Educational & Animal Area Live Entertainment and More!

Attractions with additional charges: Pumpkin Patch and other Fall Decorations Blast Zone & Corn Cannons Private Campfires Haunted House & Hayride into Paynes Creek Historic State Park Located in the heart of Florida, Hardee County has a unique heritage and rich history in agriculture.

Heartland Events will strive to showcase the assets of our community with an authentic agritourism experience focusing on family activities, education through community activites and programs, classes and field trips.

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16 Year s of Good Business!

863-385-8289

Don and Maria Maddox Owners

4441 US Hwy 27 South - Sebring, FL 33870

863-314-9099 T!hank you Highlands County locals for being the heart of our business!

First Class Fashion, Formal & Sportswear for Women & Men! Visit our New XL Room.

Also featuring Decor Consignment byHome Appointment Formal & Bridal Wear Available Closed Monday & Tuesday during June-July-August

We strive to provide you the best equipment along with the best service at the very best price!

Proudly Serving DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands & Polk Counties

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863-993-0240

Email: service@copylifeinc.com

Fax: 863-993-0248

Located in beautiful, downtown historic Lake Wales 257 Stuart Avenue 9:30-5:30 Mon.- Sat. 863-679-1146

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All Around • Septic Tanks Cleaned • Grease Traps Cleaned • Sewer & Drain Line Cleaned

Septic & Sewer, Inc.

• System Inspections • Drain Field Installations & Repairs • Lift Station: Repairs - Maintenance

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Sharion Hudson, Owner

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Business Card Holders - Note Pads Luggage Tags -Wallets Photo Frames - Manicure Sets Eye Glass Cases and More!

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ADAMS Custom Woodwork 863-245-3560 With years of carpentry experience, everything I design and build is high quality and made to last.

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Jake Adams Owner Email: adamscustomwoodwork@gmail.com

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Florida Hospital Heartland chosen for live transmissions to C3 Global Summit

By Pamela Glinski Photography by Pamela Glinski and Katara Simmons

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

hen experience in the field of heart and vascular care really matters, it can be comforting to know that a local physician and hospital have been recognized worldwide for their expertise. „

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Dr. Thomas M. Shimshak

Chris Wooley of VAS Communication, Dr. Thomas M. Shimshak, Ann Glinski and Roy Butler discuss the procedures that will be broadcast.

or the second year in a row, one of Florida Hospital Heartland Medical Center's interventional cardiologists, Dr. Thomas M. Shimshak, was chosen to be one of only fifteen specialist worldwide to demonstrate his techniques for the relief of vascular blockage during a live satellite transmission to the Complex Cardiovascular Catheter Therapeutics, Advanced Endovascular and Coronary Intervention Global Summit (C3) at the Hilton Bonnet Creek in Orlando.

On June 29, Dr. Shimshak and the cath lab teams at Florida Hospital's Heart and Vascular Center performed two complex, non-surgical catheter-based procedures that were broadcast to over 1200 medical professionals attending the 12th annual C3 Summit. The two male patients, ages 74 and 60, had pain and difficulty walking because of long segments of complete, chronic blockages in their legs. „

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Chris Wooley of VAS Communications directs the live broadcast to the C3 Global Summit along with engineer Jeff Martin and Director of Photography Robert Flowers.

A Jetstream catheter was used in both cases to successfully remove the plaque and angioplasty and stenting to repair the arteries.

Thirty-minute segments of each case, along with ongoing question and answer sessions, were aired live via satellite by Phoenix based multimedia company VAS Communications.

Throughout the four-day conference, cases were transmitted from five hospitals in the United States as well as medical facilities in the United Kingdom, Denmark, China, Italy, India and Sweden.

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Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Thomas M. Shimshak explains the procedures.

“Our role as a live case site is to demonstrate contemporary care for patients with complex vascular disease. This makes it possible for the „

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Members of the cath lab staff at Florida Hospital Heartland

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audience to virtually be in the lab to learn approaches and technical aspects of each case,” explained Dr. Shimshak, who is one of the co-directors of the C3 Summit. This educational symposium provides medical professionals an opportunity to learn about new stent platforms, drug-eluting balloons and essential elements of new approaches to complex disease.

Considered one of the leading advanced angioplasty doctors in the country, Dr. Shimshak was honored with a “Lifetime Achievement Award” during the 2014 C3 International Cardiovascular Summit.

Dr. Shimshak's specialty is treating coronary and vascular diseases with catheter-based therapies, which he explained are less invasive, allow for shorter hospital stays and provide equivalent or superior results. Trained first in internal medicine, he said he was attracted to this field because of the ability to be able to intervene definitively for his cardiovascular patients.

“Interventional cardiology, when I started (in 1988), was still relatively young. I could see this was going to be a very significant part of cardiovascular care, that it combined the best of all elements, acute and chronic care, but it was definitive.

And it was very technically oriented, which was attractive to me from a surgical mentality and approach. The discipline has grown over the last 25 years tremendously. It is the marriage of industry and product development, coupled with the expertise of the technicians,” he said.

Since arriving in Sebring in January 2015, Dr. Shimshak has also been

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Above (L-R): Heart and Vascular Center Supervisor, RN Ann Glinski and Heart and Vascular Center Charge Nurse Paul Mazurkewitz

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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active in clinical research, lecturing and teaching. Now, as the Medical Director of the Heart and Vascular Center, he is working to expand research into the development of new device therapy to improve patient care.

“You can't do this without a sort of team approach. This is a 24/7 commitment on the part of the team for 365 days a year,” Dr. Shimshak said. “We can't do any of what we do without that level of commitment from the staff as a whole, and we have that even though this is a small hospital. That is what attracted me to come here.”

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The Heart and Vascular Center staff consists of board-certified diagnostic cardiologists, three interventional cardiologist, vascular surgeons, cardiac radiologist, cardiovascular technologists, registered nurses, and support staff.

“Everybody has their own expertise and something they bring to the table in taking care of the patient,” said RN Ann Glinski, who is Supervisor of the Heart and Vascular Center. “They all put their best foot forward every day to do the right thing for the patients. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication from each of those individuals to do the volume that we do.”

Last year, over 944 coronary angioplasty/stent procedures were performed at Florida Hospital Heartland, with a success rate of 98.6 %. The Heart and Vascular Center's level-one cath labs treated a total of 2,884 cases in 2015, including implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators, catheter ablations, vascular surgeries and peripheral vascular procedures.

“A year ago, we had 24 percent growth

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Best in Show Caroline Maxcy Fox

Best Young Photographer Adam Eaton

Blending In

Highlands Museum of the Arts Behind Sebring Public Library

351 West Center Ave. | Sebring, FL 33870 Monday-Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

www.HighlandsArtLeague.org Free Admission

The Fern Garden Trail

B.R.A.T. CLUB HOSTS

Okeechobee’s 51st Annual LABOR DAY PARADE September 5, 2016 Parade begins at 10 am

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Parade Entry Forms Now Available!

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W

e can't do any of what we do without that level of commitment from the staff as a whole, and we have that even though this is a small hospital."

- Dr. Thomas M. Shimshak

Florida Hospital Heartland Medical Center, Sebring, FL

in these types of procedures, this year we are up 27 percent,” Director of Cardiovascular Services Roy Butler said. “Our teams are so proficient; many more people are opting to stay here in Highlands County to receive quality care.”

Part of the Adventist Health System, Florida Hospital Heartland opened in Sebring in 1998, with its Heart and Vascular program beginning in 2007. State-of-the-art technology and round-the-clock, on-call interventional cardiologists and cath lab staff has meant that patients are cared for effectively and quickly through the hospital's “Code STEMI Program.” STEMI stands for ST-segment elevation myocardial infraction, a type of heart attack where the priority is to open the artery as quickly as possible to save heart muscle.

In 2015, the Heart and Vascular Center had an average response time that took a heart attack patient from their hospital bed or the ER door to actually being catheterized (ballooned) in between 47 to 68 minutes, well below the national standard set at 90 minutes.

“This places Florida Hospital Heartland Medical Center in Sebring in the top 10 percent of all hospitals nationally that provide this service,” Dr. Shimshak proudly noted. “We are literally in the top-top tier of all programs in the country in terms of our volumes and our outcomes.”

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The Big Event

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The Super Bowl of Country Music!

CountryFlo Music & Camping Festival is a 2-Day event held at Triple Canopy Ranch in Lake Wales, Florida Triple Canopy Ranch has turned their 420-acre Florida gem into one of the most unique and aesthetically appealing outdoor event sites in America.

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Entertainment provided until 1:00 AM

(863) 417-0004 16950 County Road 630, Lake Wales, Florida 33898

August September 2016

Hotel

R E V I EW

By Cindy Sebring Adams

Residence Inn

by Marriott

The newly remodeled Residence Inn by Marriott is finished and ready to share its new look and design with visitor’s traveling to our community. A local company Bevis Construction did the renovations giving the hotel upgrade a more contemporary design.

Currence said first phase of the remodel was focused on remodeling the 80 rooms. Each suite received new paint, soft seating, curtains, shower curtains, lamps, carpet, and pictures. The rooms were lightened up with colors of teals, grays and touches of browns. Marriott also approved taking the vinyl off the walls in the hallways and applying a texture and paint. Currence said they donated their old items to two different local charities.

New colors in the public areas are grays, blacks and whites.

Marriott’s goal is to target the Millennial with a more contemporary destination. They have tripled the size of the fitness center and have added state-of-the-art equipment.

The guests enjoy the new workout center and the staff says they have seen an increase in usage.

Residence Inn by Marriott is located at 3221 Tubbs Road & US 27 South.

The new breakfast area provides space for guests to gather any time of day.

The serving area has been enlarged and completely remodeled with quartz countertops and new contemporary style cabinets. They added a community table and soft seating to the breakfast area and also changed the conference room into more soft seating for their guests.

The hotel felt the need to update their outdoor patio area so added a beautiful stone fire pit and enlarged the outdoor patio area. The also added a new top-end grill that has been encased in stone with a granite counter top.

The updated pool area is very inviting.

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The Residence Inn of Sebring, Florida, received the Diamond Hotel Award by Marriott as well as a Guest Satisfaction Award for Overall Satisfaction, Intent to Recommend and Problem Incidence. The Diamond Award is one of the highest honors a hotel can receive from Marriott. Only five hotels out of 699 received the Diamond Award globally.

“This is the first time winning this award and we are certain it won’t be the last”.

Photos courtesy of Residence Inn bt Marriott.

The outdoor patio area is beautiful day or night.

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Taste of the

W

hen it comes to Southern foods, what could be more iconic than shrimp and grits? They're routinely cited as a classic of the Southern table, and they can be found on the menus at mom & pop restaurants, white tablecloth bistros and cafes from Louisville, Kentucky clear down to Florida.

Until just fairly recently, there weren't a whole lot of Southerners eating shrimp and grits. In fact, most Southerners hadn't even heard of the dish. It was one of the many regional specialties that were found in only one specific part of the South—the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia.

Today, it is a classic Southern staple that is equally popular among upscale restaurants and home cooks. One of the classic recipes for Shrimp and Grits comes from Bill Neal, the founder of Crook’s Corner in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, who passed away in 1991. Neal, sometimes called the “Godfather of Southern cooking,” made his shrimp and grits a bit on the spicy side, but you can tailor the recipe to your taste easily. Enjoy!

Shrimp & Grits

One of the South’s Beloved Foods

Bill Neal’s Shrimp and Grits Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 cups water One 14 1/2 ounce can chicken broth 3/4 cup half and half 3/4-teaspoon salt 1-cup stone ground grits 3/4-cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated 1/4-cup parmesan cheese, grated 2 tablespoons butter

1/2-teaspoon Tabasco sauce 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 3 slices bacon 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/8-teaspoon salt 1/4-cup flour

1 cup sliced mushrooms 1/2-cup scallions, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2-cup chicken broth 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/4-teaspoon Tabasco sauce lemon wedges

PREPARATION

Bring first 4 ingredients to a boil, in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits; reduce to simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, according to time on package. When the grits are done, stir in the cheddar cheese and next 4 ingredients, stirring until cheeses are melted. Cover and set aside, but keep warm.

While the grits are cooking, fry in bacon in a large skillet, until crisp. Set aside on paper towel and reserve 1 tablespoon of drippings in skillet. Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper, dredge in flour, and set aside. In the bacon drippings, sauté the mushrooms about 5 minutes, or until tender. Add the scallions and cook for 2 more minutes. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes, until the shrimp begin to brown. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic, and hot sauce, and continue to cook 2 more minutes, stirring to loosen brown bits from skillet. Divide the grits into 4 large, shallow bowls, ladle the shrimp mixture over the grits, and top each with crumbled bacon. Serve with lemon wedges.

Wine choices to pair with your Shrimp & Grits Sauvignon Blanc or Bordeaux Blanc - these are crisp, citrusy wines that would complement the shrimp nicely, especially if they've been grilled or sautéed. They would also cut through the creaminess of the grits, refreshing your mouth between bites.

Chardonnay - these are rich, buttery, slightly creamy white wines that will go well with the grits, especially if they're particularly buttery or creamy. Enjoy!

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By Bridgette Waldau

WaterWays A Smithsonian Museum on Main Street Exhibit Comes To The Heartland Area!

Showcasing

Okeechobee will be hosting a unique Smithsonian exhibit the end of 2016 that celebrates the WaterWays throughout the United States. This traveling exhibit will make a stop in Okeechobee with the cooperation and support of Florida Humanities Council and the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street (MOMS) project. MOMS is a one of a kind cultural project that has been sharing the Smithsonian’s resources with rural America since 1994. It is a partnership of the Smithsonian and Florida’s humanities council that serves small town museums and cultural institutions and residents of rural America.

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Okeechobee was chosen by the Florida Humanities Council to host this exceptional exhibit due to the history that the lake and community share. Lake Okeechobee is an integral part of Okeechobee, as well as the world’s waterways. Okeechobee’s history boasts of the importance of the lake and is the foundation for which the community was established. Due to their special relationship to this waterway Okeechobee was selected to be one of only six communities in Florida and one of only thirty-six communities throughout the United States to host this extraordinary Smithsonian exhibit.

You may ask, “What is the Smithsonian?

The Smithsonian is a federal institution with multiple museums scattered throughout Washington, DC. The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846 by an Act of Congress as "an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge." Smithsonian Institution consists of 19 Museums and the National Zoo. There are over 150 affiliated museums in 39 states, Panama and Puerto Rico, and traveling exhibitions throughout America that visit over 100 museums every year. The Smithsonian Institution has 700 world-class scientists on staff and nine research centers around the globe.

The total number of objects, works of art and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at nearly 137 million. The collections range from insects and meteorites to locomotives and spacecraft. The scope of artifacts is staggering—from a magnificent collection of ancient Chinese bronzes to the Star-

Spangled Banner; from a 3.5 billion-year-old fossil to the Apollo lunar landing module; from the ruby slippers featured in The Wizard of Oz to presidential paintings and memorabilia. Through a long-term loan program, the Smithsonian shares its vast collections and expertise with more than 161 affiliate museums around the country.

More than a collection of museums, the Smithsonian has contributed so much more to the grand scheme of things. The Smithsonian not only actively contributes efforts to research, but to efforts addressing the problems of a warmer globe.

The Smithsonian also has programs and opportunities for educating the next generation. The education of the future generation is most important, and being educated by such a prestigious institute hopefully brings forth much innovation and inspiration. Ultimately, the Smithsonian plays a crucial role and is of the utmost importance.

So, for this Smithsonian national exhibit comes to the Heartland area is a prestigious honor and one that the public in Okeechobee and the Heartland area should take the time to visit and experience. This beautiful, informative and interactive exhibit will be enjoyed by all ages and should not be missed.

The Waterways exhibit in Okeechobee is a cooperative event between the Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council, Okeechobee Main Street, Okeechobee Historical Society and the Okeechobee Public Library. The exhibit will be opening on December 17 – January 28 and will be located in the Historical County Courthouse.

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August September 2016

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By Adam Glinski

Moving

Tips to Keep You

If

you are like most people who exercise regularly then you occasionally wake up feeling a little sore from the previous day’s activities. Minor soreness or stiff feelings are actually a good sign that you put in some quality work somewhere over the previous days. I know I always feel better when I know I made myself sore other than letting father time have his way. However, anything that is painful or doesn’t feel right should be checked by a physician. For the minor soreness that accompanies a good workout we are going to cover some tips to help you recover and hit the gym feeling better than before.

Warm up

Warm ups are a great way to get your blood flowing and loosen your muscles in preparation for the next bout of exercise. Warm ups don’t have to be saved for the gym though. If you wake up feeling sore, a brief 5 minute warm up in the morning will take care of any minor soreness, can improve your mood, and may boost your metabolism. Do exercises that are low impact, cover a wide range of motion, and allow you to ease into the movement. Jumping jacks are some of my favorites to get things going.

Stretch

when you are done. I see it all the time, someone comes in, works out and leaves. No cool down. No stretching. This is bad for recovery and can lead to stiff and sore muscles and a lack of desire to return to the gym derailing any progress made. Make a commitment to yourself to cool down and stretch after every workout. Five to ten minutes every day can make a world of difference in your mobility and recovery. Proper stretching also helps with injury prevention.

Choose several stretches each day and hold each for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

100

Hydrate

I cannot say this enough. Think of beef jerky. It is tough and inflexible because it is dry. Hydrated muscles are more flexible and ready for action. Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after any exercise.

Foam rollers

I have not met a client yet who has not benefited from the continual use of a foam roller. They are inexpensive and you can use them while you relax and watch TV in the evenings. They are also great for recovery immediately after a workout.

There are plenty of resources available for different ways you can roll out your soreness.

Exercise

and diet are important to our health and fitness goals but good recovery is just as important. Improper recovery leads to stiffness and soreness or even injuries and derailed progress. So warm up, cool down, stretch, stay hydrated, and work out some of your own kinks with a foam roller so you don’t feel like beef jerky. he information in this article is general advice and not an individualized recommendation. Always consult with your physician before beginning or altering an exercise program.

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Southern Chef Southern Recipes

by Layne Prescott

Southern Fried Chicken Dinner My Fried Chicken 2-3 pieces chicken per person (leg, thigh & breast) Crisco Oil All Purpose Flour Seasoning for flour: Salt, Pepper, garlic powder, seasoned salt, Everglades, Crazy Salt Several hours before cooking; prepare chicken. Remove from package, and rinse well. Lay out on counter on paper towels. While still damp, season chicken on both sides. *Note: For boneless skinless chicken breasts - rinse and cut into serving size pieces. Place in bowl and brine with Kosher salt. Allow to brine for at least one hour. (If desired, pound breasts or make cutlets). Add one cup buttermilk (or milk and lemon juice), and two eggs. Toss meat several times to coat.

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Prepare seasoned flour. Put in large bag and add chicken pieces 4-5 at a time and coat well.

Large electric skillet: Add Ÿ to ½ inch oil and preheat to 350 degrees.

Place chicken skin side down (do not crowd pan); after starting to brown, lower temperature and allow to cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side). Increase temperature and turn chicken; repeating above steps.

Can turn chicken several times to make sure cooked.

Remove chicken from frying pan, place on baking pan (single layer) in warm oven while cooking remaining chicken.

Yellow Rice and Milk Gravy 1 pkg. Vigo Yellow Rice

Butter

Prepare rice according to package directions-increasing the amount of butter and water. Double the amount of butter and add ¼ to ½ cup liquid.

Milk Gravy After frying chicken, turn off heat; pour off ¾ of oil remaining in pan. To the remaining oil, add ½ to ¾ cup flour (seasoned flour left over from coating chicken).

Carefully stir flour into hot oil. Stir until incorporated.

At this point the flour/oil should be fluid (not dry and crumbly). To create the correct texture-either add more oil (if too stiff) or more flour if too soupy. Technically, this is a roux, and depending on the color desired continue to cook in this state for several minutes until colored reached. Add liquid gradually, stirring constantly.

Note: Can use water from boiling potatoes, or chicken broth or plain water.

Start with 4 cups liquid and pour 1-2 cup at a time stirring constantly. Discontinue liquid when desired consistency achieved. Lower heat, allow to simmer for few minutes.

Turn off heat and add ½-1 cup milk (depending on amount of gravy).

Devil’s Food with White Fluffy Icing & Cream Cheese Fluffy Icing 2 boxes Devil’s Food Cake Mix 2 Small boxes chocolate pudding Follow directions on box cake; increasing oil by 2 Tbsp. and adding pudding. Bake in four 8-9” prepared cake pans. Allow to cool completely. Use three layers.

Cream Cheese Fluffy Icing 1 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese (softened) ½ stick butter (softened) 1 cup Marshmallow Fluff ¾ bag (large) confectioner’s sugar Beat first 3 ingredients until fluffy. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar until stiff. Use this between layers.

Fluffy White Frosting In saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/3 cup water, ¼ tsp. cream of tartar, dash of salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Stream sugar syrup into mixing bowl with 2 unbeaten egg whites; beating constantly on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (approx. 7 minutes). Beat in 1 t. vanilla.

Frost top and sides of the cake.

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Cang Tong

Japanese Steak House + Sushi + Chinese 110 Sebring Square | Sebring | 863.386.1924 Enjoy dining in a casual comfortable atmosphere at our new location with a new menu. Personal Chefs prepare your meal the way you want it, right at your table. Try our unique variety of sushi rolls including everyone’s favorite roll the OMG, it consists of spicy salmon and avocado topped with avocado and sweet delicious mango. We also have a wide variety of Chinese specialties. Come visit us for a fun experience and a melt in your mouth taste.

Take-out or Delivery and Catering | Menu Highlights: Daily Sushi Roll specials, Hibachi Filet Mignon and Lobster, Sesame Chicken, Lo Mein, Fried Cheesecake.

Sunday - Thursday | 11 am – 9 pm Friday and Saturday | 11 am –10 pm

www.CangTongSebring.com

See ad on page 75

Eighteen East

Restaurant and Bar 18 East Main Street | Avon Park | 863.453.1818 Downtown Avon Park Eighteen East is a restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Avon Park, serving the area’s best steaks. We offer a large selection of American food with creative new menu items added regularly.

The historic brick décor gives a pub-type atmosphere where local artists perform throughout the week. Eighteen East is a favorite with locals and a guaranteed enjoyable experience.

Appetizers: Pan Seared Ahi-Tuna; Hog Wings; Grilled Chicken Nachos Entrees: Eighteen East Signature Burger; Prime Rib Reuben; Filet; Giant Shrimp Ravioli. Full Top Shelf liquor, Beer and Wine.

Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 4 pm - 9 pm Call for Live Entertainment Schedule.

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www.beststeakaround.com

Eighteen East

... a restaurant and bar!

See ad on page 101

Island View

Lakefront Restaurant & Pub 5223 Sun N Lake Blvd.| Sebring | 863-382-1191 Island View Lakefront Restaurant offers a unique dining experience like no other in Highlands County. We offer a variety of great American food from fried green tomatoes, ribs, and a variety of sandwiches to our Friday Night Prime Rib dinners. Our Sunset Dining menu includes dinner and house beer, wine or soda starting at $12.00.

Monday – Saturday 11 am – 8 pm Sunday 11 am – 5:30 pm Bar Services and Light Sandwiches Served Sunset Dining: Monday – Saturday 3:30 pm – 7:00 pm Reservations are always recommended 863-382-1191 www.IslandViewRestaurant.com

See ad on page 27

High Noon Café & Crystal Ballroom at The OK Corral Gun Club

9449 NE 48th Street | Okeechobee | 863-357-2226 Casual gourmet lunch served daily in an atmosphere of rustic southern elegance with a stylish western flair. Tantalizing mouth-watering appetizers prepared by our Executive Chef include: The Corral Thai Chili Chicken Wings, Florida Gator Bites and Pulled Pork Quesadillas along with assorted creative Flatbread Pizzas. Local specialties inspire signature entrees like the American Bison Sloppy Joe and the hearty OK Corral Burger. Sit back and relax anytime with your favorite beer, wine and spirits dining inside or on the porch. Host your holiday and special event and for up to 300 guests for an unforgettable celebration! BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW! GRILLIN' CHILLIN' SHOOTIN' Lunch Served 7 Days a Week 11 am – 4 pm Sunday Brunch Buffet 10 am - 2 pm (Reservations Preferred) Friday Night Steak and Clays Meetings, Holiday Events, Wedding and Corporate Outings

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

See ad on page 61

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Papa John’s Pizza 935 Sebring Sq. | Sebring | 863-386-1177 At Papa John’s we strive to create great dining experiences through authentic, superior-quality products, legendary customer service and exceptional community service. We pride ourselves in providing a menu that’s prepared with only the finest ingredients from fresh vegetables to our never frozen, hand-tossed original dough and superior-quality tomato sauce. We are committed to exceeding your expectations.

Family Style Restaurant | Take -Out| Food Delivery Service Locally Owned, GeoDev Pizza, Inc. by George A. Hall and Devon P. Donaldson Open 7 Days 11 am - 11 pm Carry out 11 am - 9:40 pm www.papajohns.com

See ad on page 99

The Twisted Teapot Tea Room 200 First Street South | Winter Haven | 863-299-5000 The Twisted Teapot is dedicated to providing an unforgettable afternoon tea experience with quality food and exceptional service.

Customers comes first, whether it's catering to a special need or delivering a truly unforgettable experience for a special occasion.

Serving specialty teas, quiches, sandwiches, salads and soups.

Available for private parties and catering.

Open Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 3 pm Reservations are highly recommended www.TwistedTespot.com

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See ad on page 11

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Sweet & Savory Catering Appetizers, Desserts and Everything in Between

Personal & Private Chefs Fully Prepared Meals Dietary Specific Meals Baby & Bridal Showers Weddings | Special Events Business Meeting | Holiday Parties Full Service Catering | We Deliver

(407) 637-4756 info@pinkpineapplecatering.com

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Home Furnishings & Décor Consignment

A Museum on Main Street exhibition organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services Brought to you by the Florida Humanities Council Funded by the U.S. Congress Inspired by the exhibition organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (www.amnh.org)

Smithsonian Museum on Main Street Waterways Exhibit EXHIBIT|DATES:

Visit: http://m.nu2u-llc.com for images of new arrivals Open Tuesday - Friday 10:00 - 5:00, Saturday 10:00 - 3:00

December 17, 2016 – January 28, 2017 Historic County Courthouse | 304 NW 2nd St. | Okeechobee, FL. 34972 Okeechobee County Public Library

For more information www.visitokeechobeecounty.com or 863-763-3959

Consigning with us is easy!

Call today for details.

(800) 572-8607 647 S. Commerce Ave. - Sebring, FL 33870

Set Your Sight on this premier Sporting Clays Facility and Hunting Perserve in South Florida!

• Quail Hunts • Pheasant Hunts • Lodging • Sporting Clays • Private Events • Corporate Groups

Summer rates for lodging starting May 1st

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Visit Rustic & Lodge Decor at Quail Creek Plantation Florida Western Superstore & Interior Desisgn Services

PLANTATION

Quail Creek Plantation 12399 NE 224 Street Okeechobee, FL 34972

We will be open on Friday nights starting May 13th with special pricing, games and dinner!

Email: reservations@quailcreekplantation.com

www.quailcreekplantation.com

(863) 763-2529

Heartland

SCENE

Heartland LIVING Florida Airboat Association Unity Weekend

August September 2016

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District 7 Machine Pitch All Star Championship Photography by Jessica Pleger

Youth Baseball Teams from District 7 battled it out for the Machine Pitch All Star District Championship beginning June 10 at the Wahneta Ball Park. All of the teams from the district played great ball but Hardee and East Lakeland won the top seeds. The Championship game was played on June 14 and the stands were packed with family and friends there to cheer on their team. Hardee went into the game undefeated and ended the same way, defeating East Lakeland in an 8-7 victory after a tough, hard fought battle of two great teams. Way to go Hardee All Stars!

Hardee MP All-Stars Players Carmelo Ruiz # 21 Ashton Bass #5 Ryland Beumel #13 Hagen Bryan # 6 Jeremiah "Piddy" Cabrera #4 Owen Connell #1 Austin Hilliard # 8 Leo Marrero #7 Ethan Mayer #20 Raymond Norris #22 Ryan Rivas #10 Seann Solis #3

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Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Sun 'n Lake

Independence Day Celebration Photography by Belanger Media Group

Toby the Clown Foundation

Brady and Bryan Bell

112

The Sun 'n Lake Independence Day Celebration at Sun 'n Lake Golf Club and Island View was held on Sunday, July 3. Sun 'n Lake Improvement District hosts this annual event with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. The Kids Club area featured 10-15 different games, inflatables, face painting, goodies by SHS Cheer, a dunk tank hosted by Relay for Life of Avon Park, entertainment

by DJ Ian Belanger and special games from participating sponsors.

On the other side of the lawn, the popular Shannon Reed Band performed. The Sun 'n Lake Golf Club hosted a cornhole tournament with 16 teams and great prizes. Despite Mother Nature putting a bit of a damper on the day, the evening ended with a fabulous display of fireworks which lit up the sky in patriotic glory. It was another great year for the Independence Day Celebration!

(L-R) Kailey Swaine, Gaven Szoka and Mika Descartin

The Shannon Reed Band

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Florida Airboat Association Unity Weekend Photography by Sharon Cannon On July 15 -17, airboaters and airboat manufacturers from all over the state and out of state came to mingle and talk to each other to show strength of the airboating community. The FAA Banquet Dinner was held at the KOA Campgrounds Convention Center where the attendees enjoyed a steak dinner, raffle prizes, silent auction and live music by The Tom Jackson Band. Inside there were enough tables and chairs to seat 220 people along with 5 vendor tables and 12 airboats. All proceeds from this event will help protect airboating rights by keeping a lobbyist in Tallahassee. FAA Unity committee can't wait to get started on next year’s event.

Sharie Turgeon, tourism coordinator for Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council

Rob Stoneham, Joan Stoneham and Shane Stoneham, President of Lake Okeechobee Airboat Association and Board of Director of FAA

Okeechobee County Commissioners: Frank Irby, Bryant Culpepper, Terry Burroughs, Florida Senator Charles Dean and Phil Baughman

Joe Dan Faircloth and Kaysie Vick

Phil Paughman receives the "Randy Dowd" award from FAA President Billy Boatwright

The Tom Jackson band

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FAA Board members and officers (L-R): FAA Lobbyist Lane Stephens, Scott Sommers, Treasurer Bob Herndon, President Billy Boatwright, Sean McCann, Vice President Bishop Wright Jr., Damon Carroll, Secretary Dovanna Stoneham, Shane Stoneham, Jeff Leserra, Jerry Wetherington and Danny Brantley

Louise Chandler and City Councilman Noel Chandler

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Home Furnishings & Décor Consignment

Pet Hotel With Environment In Mind

Private Southern Suites | Spacious K9 Kabins Playroom and Puppy Pond | Kiddy Kondos Also Daycamp Available

Summer Sizzle Special!

4th Wednesday of Every Month

Visit: http://m.nu2u-llc.com for images of new arrivals

Daycamp Upgrade - play for the day, Spruce-up Bath and Ice Cream Special for the Pups!

Open Tuesday - Friday 10:00 - 5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 3:00

Upscale consignors wanted.

863-784-4066

(800) 572-8607

Home Away From Home For Our Furry Friends

647 S. Commerce Avenue Sebring, FL 33870

Monday - Friday 9 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am - 11 am Sunday 3 pm - 5 pm

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Highlands County Oldest & Largest Health Food Store Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Wheat Free/Gluten Free • Probiotics • Natural & Organic Food Vitamins • Omega Oils Herbs • Essential Oils • Aroma Therapy Paleo Foods • Raw Foods • Ionized Alkaline Water

301 US 27 N. Sebring, FL 33870

863-385-8995

20% Everyday Discounts On All Garden of Life & New Chapter Supplements Now Accepting EBT Open: Mon - Fri 9-6 & Saturday 9-5

Live plants for your office without the worries!

Paul’s Plantscapes

Licensed and Insured

863-873-4580

ALL THE COMFORTS OF A MODERN HOME

Extended Stay Available

All hotel renovations are now complete!

Come see our new look and enjoy your stay in comfort and style!

Everglades Foods, Inc.

ALL Suites with Lake Views Complimentary Buffet Breakfast High Speed Wireless Internet Golf & Romance Packages Centrally Located to All Major Arteries Pet Friendly

Seasoning - Foods - Gifts

Hats $14.95

Everglades Sportswear Fishing Shirts Available in Multiple Colors & Designs!

800-689-2221

“Not Just a Brand ... A Way of Life”

863-314-9100

441 Webster Turn Drive, Sebring, FL

www.evergladesseasoning.com

3221 Tubbs Rd. & US 27 South Sebring, Florida 33870

www.Marriott.com/sefri

2016 Inductees

Hardee Athletic Foundation 5th Annual Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony

Joel Evers

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James Crayton

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Heartland LIVING

www.haf-online.org Email: hardeeathleticfoundation@gmail.com or call (863) 781-0358

August September 2016

Derrel Bryan

117

2016

calendar of

events

DeSoto County August 6

Farmer’s Market

9 am – 2 pm | Tree of Knowledge Park Historic Downtown Arcadia August 18

Highlands County August - September 16

Annual Photography Competition & Exhibit

Mon. - Fri. . | 10 am – 4 pm | Highlands Museum of Art | Sebring August 13

Saunders Second Chances Fundraiser

Politics in the Park

11 am – 2 pm | Saunders Veterinary Services | Avon Park

August 27

16th Annual Grape Stomp Festival

5:30 pm – 8:30 pm | McSwain Park | Arcadia

Antique Fair

Historic Downtown Arcadia September 3

Farmer’s Market

August 13 10 am – 2 pm | Henscratch Farms | Lake Placid August 26 - September 11

"Hairspray" Highlands Little Theatre

9 am – 2 pm | Tree of Knowledge Park Historic Downtown Arcadia

Fri. & Sat. 7:30 pm, Sun matinee at 2:30 pm 356 W. Center Ave. | Sebring

September 24

September 3 – 5

Antique Fair

Historic Downtown Arcadia

“Tour of Sebring” Cycling Event

7 am - 1 pm | Kenilworth Lodge | Sebring September 9

Hardee County

Artist Reception at the Yellow House

5 pm – 8 pm | Highland’s Art League | Sebring September 16 – 18

Sebring Thunder

Sebring | SebringThunder.net for more info.

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August 5 Wildcat Tailgate Party 6 pm – 9 pm | Heritage Park | Wauchula September 17 Hardee Athletic Foundation 5th Annual Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony 6 pm | Hardee Civic Center | Wauchula

September 1

Moonlight, Martinis and Meatballs Highlands Little Theatre 6:30 pm | 356 W. Center Ave. | Sebring September 29

Sebring Drag Racing Series

9 pm | Sebring International Raceway

2016

August | September

Okeechobee County August 6-7

The Brawl at Okeechobee

Fishing Tournament Kids Casting Contest - Aug. 6 (8 am-11 am) Scott Driver Park | 78 West | Okeechobee August 24 Raulerson Hospital

Woman's Health Night Series

6 pm | IRSC Okeechobee Campus | Okeechobee August 26 Okeechobee Main Street "Friday Night Fun in the Park" Featuring

Gourmet Food Truck Expo

Polk County August 6

Antiques, Arts & Oddities

7 am – 12 pm | Care Center Storage | Lake Wales August 12

Vintage Market Friday

5 pm - 9 pm | Country Primitives | Winter Haven August 13

Antique Fair Along Main Street 8 am – 2 pm | Downtown Bartow August 18

Craft Beer in the Park

5 pm - 9 pm | Park Street | Downtown Okeechobee

5 pm – 8 pm | Main Street | Winter Haven

September 3 Okeechobee Cattlewomen's Assoc.

Classic Albums Live Summer Concert Series:

Cow-Town Hoe-Down

August 19

8 pm | Okeechobee Shrine Club | Okeechobee

Bruce Springsteen Born to Run 8 pm | The Lakeland Center | Lakeland

September 3-4 Okeechobee Cowtown Rodeo

Lakeland Bassmasters Tournament

Labor Day Bull Bash

September 10

Cattlemen's Arena | Okeechobee

7 am – 3 pm | Lake Shipp Park | Lakeland

September 4 B.R.A.T. Club

Friday Fest - Main Street Bartow

Labor Day Parade

10 am | Park Street | Okeechobee September 4-5 Okeechobee Main Street

Labor Day in the Park

10 am – 3 pm | Park Street | Okeechobee

Want to announce your October |November 2016 community event in our next issue? email us at jessica@heartland-living.com

September 16

6 pm – 9 pm | Downtown Bartow September 21

Dixieland Twilight Market Opening 5 pm - 8 pm | Dixieland Village | Lakeland September 29

Shine a Light Gala benefitting The Porch Light 5:30 pm | The Lakeland Center | Lakeland Event listings subject to change. For more information about an event, please contact event organization.

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Budget Bi-Rite Insurance, Inc. Super Low Rates! - We Find Insurance That Meets Every Budget!

Mobile Home and Home Owners Auto Insurance

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Call or come by for a Free Estimate for your insurance coverage needs.

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Licensed by the State of Florida Open Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Open Saturday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Closed Sunday and Monday

863-453-3903 Serving all of Florida

www.budgetbirite.com Se Habla Espańol

In Highlands County since 1982 1500 US Highway 27 South - Avon Park

Waldau

Private studio teaching you how to paint step-by-step in a relaxed and fun setting.

It's the perfect place to get together and enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage.

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Small class size promises personalized instruction and a lot of fun!

Treat yourself to time away from the stress of the outside world and take a painting home with you!

Okeechobee’s Original Paint & Sip Studio

Give the gift of Art Gift Certificates Available

All classes taught by professional artist Bridgette Waldau.

www.bridgette-art.com 863-467-7300

The Little Yellow Cottage on the Corner

111 NE 2nd Street - Suite A

Over 30 Years Experience!

Sales, Service and Installation Licensed & Insured Lic. No. CAC058656

2153 State Road 64 W. Avon Park, FL 33875

863-453-4741

www.americafirstac.com Drug Free Workplace

Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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"Nothing is more important to me than the safety of my babies.

Gilbert makes sure we stay safe on the road!"

-Maurisa Tremain

Emery Tremain, age 4

- Charlie Hukriede

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www.Gilbert-Ford.com Heartland LIVING August September 2016

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Serving the Heartland Area for over 90 Years!

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www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com