Heartland LIVING Magazine Oct-Nov 2024 Issue

October & November 2024

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October & November 2024

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Look & Feel Your

Best

Blue Ocean Dermatology stands as a beacon of excellence in skincare. This state-ofthe-art dermatology clinic is dedicated to providing top-notch care to residents and visitors alike, ensuring their skin remains healthy, radiant and protected from the sun’s harsh rays.

Jason Welch - APRN CEO

The name “Blue Ocean” reflects the practice’s commitment to innovation and differentiation in the field of dermatology. It signifies their desire to venture beyond the boundaries of traditional dermatological practices and create a new, unexplored space where patients can receive the highest quality care and experience.

With Seven Locations in Florida New Smyrna Beach | Port Orange | Daytona Beach | Palm Coast Sebring | Winter Park | Okeechobee

Christina Morales, APRN

Blue Ocean Dermatology is renowned for its expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. With a passion for helping patients achieve their skincare goals, the staff at Blue Ocean Dermatology are a highly trained team that offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to address various skin concerns. Blue Ocean Dermatology was founded with a vision to provide exceptional dermatological care and create a unique patient experience.

Medical Services | Medical Dermatology Cosmetic Dermatology

Paul Giles, M.D.

Sara Corwin, APRN

Richard Levine, M.D. To bring their vision to life, the founders of Blue Ocean Dermatology, assembled a team of highly-skilled and compassionate dermatologists, nurses and support staff.

Blue Ocean Dermatology prides itself on staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements. From acne and eczema to psoriasis and Mohs surgery for skin cancer, their dermatologists have the expertise to deliver the highest standard of care. In addition to medical dermatology, they offer an array of cosmetic services to help patients look and feel their best. Whether it’s rejuvenating treatments like Botox and dermal fillers, laser hair removal or chemical peels, the clinic’s skilled professionals tailor each procedure to meet the unique needs of every individual.

As a patient, you’ll have a close, personal relationship with your community dermatology providers, who have the training, experience, and expertise necessary to meet all your skincare needs.

Offering Non invasive skin

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For more information about Blue Ocean Dermatology’s services and locations call 386.256.1444 Heartland Area Call: Sebring 863.238.1060 | Okeechobee 863.226.5466

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Photo by Chad Baumer Photography

Photo by Caroline Maxcy Fox

Photo by Caroline Maxcy Fox

Photo by Chad Baumer Photography

Come Experience Our Unmatched Rustic Elegance.

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, The Grove at 2100 blends Southern charm with modern sophistication. Whether for a dream wedding or corporate event, we invite you to create your unforgettable moments in stunning surroundings!

To learn more and book your event, contact Jessi at 863-347-5656 or email events@thegroveat2100.com

Scan to follow us and learn more at TheGroveAt2100.com October & November 2024 5

42

Big City Lights with Small Town Roots

By Kristy Harris

6

ONTENT

October & November 2024 Volume 13 Issue 5

FEATURES 24

Homesteading & Farming with the Batemans

By Rebecca Maglischo

52

Cruising Through Europe With the "Italy Chaos" Gang

By Gilbert Randall

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Good News and Great Joy

By Carissa Marine

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CONTENTS

90

October & November 2024 Volume 13 Issue 5

NOTEWORTHY 11

Heartland LIVING Best of Florida Regional Winner in the Publications Category

By Cindy Sebring Adams

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Clowning Around

By Christy Swift

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More Than a Commission:

How the Waterway Soiree Turned My Art into an Experience

By Bridgette Waldau

FOOD & HEALTH 98

Myron Mixon Shares His Recipes

By Bridgette Waldau

DEPARTMENTS

10 Letter from the Publisher 16 Behind the Scenes 20 From our Readers COVER October & November 2024

Cover: Ashton Bateman Photography by Lisa Taylor Hall

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

October & November 2024

9

PUBLISHER

THE

LETTER FROM

hank you for picking up our October & November Issue for 2024. I’m sitting here writing my “Letter From the Publish Portofino er” (yes, always the last thing I do before press time— procrastination at its best! Let's get real, I’m not a writer—I have my team to do that, and I love them for it…).

Anyway, as I’m writing, I’m also reflecting on how my 2024 has been going, including all that could have gone wrong and didn’t. I guess I’m a glass half-full rather than half-empty kind of gal who is always grateful that things aren’t worse! So, I’m choosing to reflect on all the positive, productive things and all the love this year has brought me, personally and for Heartland LIVING Magazine. If you love what you do, you know how I feel, and for that I am grateful.

We have so many amazing features in this issue, and all are completely different with something for everyone. My team always exceeds my expectations to bring you the most interesting editorial content with the most gorgeous photography to go with the stories. A shout-out to Lisa Taylor Hall for capturing the cutest little farmer on our cover. Since all our stories are so different, I’m just going to let you start reading the magazine from beginning to end. Enjoy!

How many of you love to travel? I asked myself earlier this year what adventure means to me. My thoughts were, “to explore new places and unknown ideas along the way, viewing adventure as a journey of places I’ve only been curious about.” Well, that is only a piece of what I experienced when I traveled across the world for fifteen days with five of my incredibly amazing friends. It was an adventure of a lifetime and only left me wanting to adventure more. A huge thank you to Nancy and Michael for inviting us, to Michael for taking the gorgeous photos, and to Gilbert “Gibby” for journaling the trip along the way to share with you. We hope you enjoy our travels through Italy and Greece along the Mediterranean Sea. Whether your adventure is in your own backyard, a day trip to the beach, a long weekend with family and friends, or traveling the world to experience a different culture, make the time. I hope this issue inspires you to find your personal gratitude, reflect on all the things that matter in life and be the best version of yourself you can be.

After reading our stories, please take time to look at what our advertisers have to offer. I’m so thankful they choose Heartland LIVING to share their businesses with you. Supporting local is so important, so please shop with them and let them know you saw their ad in Heartland LIVING. Please let us know what you like to do best here in the Heartland, tag us on social media, and you can always send me a note to cindy@heartland-living.com.

God Bless,

Cindy Sebring Adams 10

Heartland

LIVING

Best Florida Regional Winner in the Publications Category!

We want to thank Guide to Florida for this honor.

We can't thank you, our wonderful readers, for taking the time to vote and your continual support through the years.

We will continue sharing the best inspiring stories and sharing our amazing local businesses in the Heartland for years to come!

11

Heartland

October & November 2024

Publications & Marketing, Inc. October & November 2024 Volume 13 Issue 5

Published by CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams

Creative Director Bridgette Waldau

Editor Christy Swift

Cover Photographer Lisa Taylor Hall

Digital Media Coordinator Kelsey Schauf

Feature Photography Lisa Taylor Hall Michael Mathews

Feature Writers Kristy Harris Rebecca Maglischo Carissa Marine Gilbert Randall Christy Swift Bridgette Waldau

Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc.

Contributing Photographers Jay Bentley Tara Leavitt Distribution Kristan Baker Lisa Griffin

Proud Recipient of 18 Charlie Awards

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

In the Following Categories:

E-mail

Best Department Design (2)

Cindy@Heartland-Living.com

2014 - 2021 Best Overall Design Best Feature Design (4) Cover Photo Illustration

Become a fan on facebook

www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

Best Traditional Illustration Best Self-Promotional Ad Best Table of Contents Best Department Design Best Photography Image (3) Best Overall Writing Best Custom Publication (2)

Florida Magazine Association

Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc. Copyright 2024, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher.

All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Heartland Living Magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Heartland Living Magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. Heartland Living Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.

12 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

October & November 2024 13

insightauction.com Specializing in Agricultural & Construction Equipment

LIVE AND ONLINE AUCTIONS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! 2024 AUCTION SCHEDULE: October 15

November 9

December 10

Serving the Southeastern US and Beyond for over 20 years! In addition to our live auctions on site, we also offer online auctions to customers all over the world through Proxibid. Customers can watch the auction in real time and bid in the comfort of their own home.

For more information, call (863) 386-1225 or visit insightauction.com 14 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

Messieh Orthopedic Clinic Leader in Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery in Central Florida since 1991 Offering a variety of Hip & Knee Replacement procedures including Direct Anterior Approach to the Hip. The Anterior Hip Replacement Approach causes less trauma than traditional techniques, making recovery easier for the patient.

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October & November 2024 15

BEHIND THE SCENES

WRITING

OCT. & NOV. 2024

DESIGN

Bridgette Waldau has been a graphic

Christy Swift is an author and editor

with over 15 years’ experience as an award-winning newspaper correspondent, magazine feature writer, and web content provider. She recently scored a 2-book deal with major publisher, Hachette Forever, and her debut romcom, Celebrity Crush, is currently available for pre-order. She also writes fantasy under the name C.P. Swift Editor & Writer on www.royalroad.com. Find her at www. christyswift.com.

Creative Art Director

Kristy Harris is an Art Teacher,

Writer

Artist and Graphic Designer in Highlands County. Originally from Michigan, Kristy received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Northern Michigan University. Kristy and her husband, Cason, moved to Lake Placid after college, fell in love with the area and just…never left. They have one daughter, Olivia, as well as two dogs and two kitty cats. When she isn’t teaching high schoolers, Kristy enjoys running her freelance graphic design business (Kristy’s Kreatives), growing flowers, taking photos, traveling, and spending time with her favorite people.

LISA TAYLOR HALL picked up her

Photographer

Writer Writer

Writer

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Gilbert Randall, known by those close to him as “Gibby,” is a Heartland Native. Gibby is a retired Deputy Sheriff and has spent the last 24 years working in the hospitality industry as a restaurateur and, along with his wife of 28 years, Kate, operating a premier wedding and event venue in Lake Placid known as The Barn at Paso Fino. Drawing on experiences from past careers, Gibby is now in training to become a personal travel guide to seek out all of the wonders in the world.

camera 7 years ago when motherhood inspired her to see the beauty in each day. She loves how photography captures a moment in time that otherwise might be forgotten. Lisa loves to capture organic moments in their best light. She grew up in Sebring and currently lives in Lake Wales with her husband and their three sons.

Lisa specializes in lifestyle photography for families, small events, maternity, and graduates.

Michael Mathews has always loved to take pictures of concerts, family and places. He is currently collecting memories while filling his bucket list. He is a retired civil servant of 33 years at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. He lives in Lake Placid, Florida with Betty White and her gators.

Rebecca Maglischo is a wife and mother of two boys. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a Master's Degree in Human Movement with an emphasis on Corrective Modalities. She has completed a two year study in Full Body Systems through the Holistic Nutrition Lab and a certification in Functional Range Condition through the Functional Anatomy Systems.

and fine artist for over 40 years. She received her A.A. from the Ft. Lauderdale Institute of Art and a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Stetson University. Bridgette has been creative director for several publications, working with Heartland Publications & Marketing as art director since 2011, winning 11 Florida Magazine Charlie Awards (2015- 2021). Bridgette is married to James, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.

Photographer Kelsey Schauf was born and raised

Digital Media Coordinator

in Sebring and resides in Mooresville, NC. For the first eight years of her career, she was a Public Relations Representative in the motorsports industry. Kelsey left that industry in 2022 to spend more time with her husband, Jacob, and son, Kolbey. She is currently working at Carolina Cat in Charlotte, North Carolina as a Marketing Specialist for the Rental and Used divisions.

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

- Lorinda Mamo, designer

Honored to have been awarded Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2023.

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October & November 2024 17

18 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

October & November 2024

from our READERS

Heartland LIVING

Heartland LIVING August & September 2024

August & September 2024

"If I recall, Johnny Rembert won a national champion ship at Clemson and then a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots." - Jeff Johnson "I read this the other day, and the thing referenced most was 'he had time for anyone'! What a wonderful and kind way to treat someone. Loved the story. You rock, Coach Bowers!" -Denise Shubert Earnhardt "I absolutely adored him while attending DHS. He was stern but fair, and above all else,he was wise. He had so much wisdom he shared with us. I tell my grandchildren stories about him to this day. -Lori Shaver

HONORING

Richard Bowers

"We have a great community!

We love reading and sharing these stories with the girls!

Thank you for these great articles about all our people that make the Heartland so wonderful!"

- Sierra Tomblin

By David Lamb Photography by Traci Newlin Old photos provided by the Bowers Family 24 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

August & September 2024 25

Smithsonian’s

How One Young Woman Faced an MS Diagnosis Exhibit Comes to Okeechobee

By Kelsey Schauf As we stepped into the chilly, gray office, we were taken into a room with the remarkable neurologist, Dr. Ena Andrews, who had been overseeing my care for the past week. Meeting my gaze, she delivered the words, "You have multiple sclerosis." It was 2010, and as an 18-year-old fresh out of high school, embarking on my college journey, that short four-word sentence reshaped the trajectory of my life. That September marked the official diagnosis of a neurological condition, driving me into the scope of young adulthood living with a brain disease.

By OKMS Arts & Culture Alliance Director Emeritus Bridgette Waldau Photography by Sharon Jones Okeechobee Main Street [OKMS] had the honor of being chosen by the Florida Humanities Council to host a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibit. Voices and Votes: Democracy in America was on display at the Historic Okeechobee County Courthouse, May 28 – July 12. This project is a national, state, and local partnership, bringing exhibitions and programs to rural cultural organizations.

Fourteen years have passed since those four words altered the course of my life, and I believe the time has come to document my journey. Whenever I recount my story, one emotion remains constant: I aspire that my openness about my experiences can offer comfort to at least one individual. I want to state that I am no doctor, and I have no medical degree. What I do have is experience with a disease and a story to tell.

This engaging exhibit came to Okeechobee County at a perfect time. As another election cycle fast approaches, this exhibit is a reminder of how powerful our votes are.

The exhibit is a great educational presentation on how our democracy began, along with the growth of voting rights for ALL Americans.

Through a selection of photographs, objects, films, audios and interactives, Voices and Votes takes a broad look at the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people.” From the revolution and suffrage to civil rights and casting ballots, everyone in every community is part of this ever-evolving story—the story of democracy in America. The exhibition sections explore the origins of American democracy, the struggles to obtain and keep the vote, the machinery of democracy, the right to petition and protest beyond the ballot, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

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"I loved reading your story! My best friend has MS, too. You are an inspiration." Christy Paul Swift "It has been an honor sharing my story with the Heartland Living Magazine family and I hope that by me sharing my story that it helps at least one person navigate this disease!" -Kelsey Schluf

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"Thank you Heartland LIVING Magazine for including us in your August issue, a story about our 'Voices and Votes' exhibit. It was such an honor for our community to have hosted this Smithsonian display, especially during an election year. We are grateful always for your support of Okeechobee Main Street and our community."

- Angie Griffin, OKMS President

If you would like to share your thoughts, please leave a post on our Facebook page or email us at Cindy@Heartland-Living.com 20

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October & November 2024 21

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

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October & November 2024 23

By Rebecca Maglischo Photography by Lisa Taylor Hall

J

ust a stone’s throw from Highlands Hammock State Park, tucked back amongst the native Florida scrub landscape, lies Selah Acres. This eight-acre homestead is equal parts entrepreneurial spirit and untethered adventure, but overwhelmingly, it is a labor of love for Billy and Jamie Bateman. From the moment my car door opens, I can feel the joy and peace that radiates from every square inch of the land. The animals aren’t so much “making noise” as they seem to be singing, and the trees reach out in a protective embrace overhead. This land has not been subdued. Rather, it has been recognized, valued, considered . . . cherished.

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Jamie and Billy Bateman

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he braying of the donkeys blows my cover.

Jamie Bateman turns and smiles just as my children tumble out of the car and make a raucous entrance as only young boys can do. We follow Jamie inside. Tiny details fill me with joy—wallpaper of orange blossoms, potted flowers, kitty cats hiding in obscure places, a grandmother clock. She offers us lemonade and sweet tea, and I know immediately that we are cut from the same cloth. We are generational Floridians. Jamie confirms my suspicions and proudly details eight generations of genealogy while my boys devour some sort of pumpkin deliciousness topped with a generous pile of cream cheese frosting.

The Batemans have been managing—and loving—this homestead for three years now.

The decision to move and make these changes was the culmination of four years of prayer and journaling. Prior to the move, Billy and Jamie lived in the same neighborhood in Sebring for 16 years, more than half of their married life. They had raised their son and daughter in that house, and they were connected to their community in many ways. But they both felt they wanted more space. They wanted a more natural environment and a connection to the land… and Billy wanted miniature donkeys.

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omesteading is a life of self-sufficiency. In America, the term is historically connected to Abraham Lincoln’s Homestead Act of 1862, which was created to encourage Americans to head west and settle. For a filing fee of $18, a citizen was granted a 160-acre plot of land. The family was required to build a structure and reside on the land for 5 years, making improvements, such as farming the land, and full ownership was granted at the end of the required timeframe. Self- sufficiency was an unstated prerequisite. While romanticized in literature, families took on danger and strife with the hopes of an adventure that would prove profitable. The Homestead Act remained in effect over 100 years and resulted in 1.6 million deeds granted to American families.

Today the term “homesteading” has many connotations but always refers to the desire for more self-reliance.

Jamie was no stranger to “figuring stuff out for herself.”

In 2004, she received a diagnosis of celiac disease, which is an illness caused by an immune reaction to gluten. Jamie had no choice but to reframe her diet and lifestyle. With the limited availability of gluten-free items, she quickly found herself elbow-deep in new ingredients learning to make old favorites sans gluten.

Everything had to be made from scratch, including her own gluten-free flour blend for basics like pancakes and biscuits. Every ingredient list on any food item had to be checked and double-checked to ensure it was safe.

This hyper-awareness of ingredients created more and more questions around the source and sustainability of all the foods that they consumed.

!"#$%"&'$()*(&%*+,--"./$()*0".1$/"# Welcome to the Family!

At the Pipal Group our clients are not just another number, and not just another listing. Our Clients are our Family.

To many, a real estate transaction may be one of the most emotional milestones in their lives and we are here to make sure that there are good memories of it. Each of our team members put their clients first and will always have their clients best interest at heart.

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www.ThePipalGroup.com

SEEKING CONSIGNMENTS! Specializing in Agricultural & Construction Equipment

Come into our location or contact us to complete the consignment application. Bring items to our location or we can provide transportation.

Recieve payment 10 days after auction!

On the second Tuesday after Auction you can pick up checks from 1–4 p.m. After 4 pm checks will be placed in the mail.

WE BUY EQUIPMENT!

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insightauction.com 29

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he Batemans know God was “working all things together for good.” They spent hours praying together, dreaming of possibilities, and taking regular Sunday drives to explore places that might be perfect for the realization of their hope. They knew they were on God’s time. When the door opened, life moved at light speed, and every piece fell perfectly into place. “Selah” is a word found primarily in the Biblical Psalms.

Its meaning is “pause and praise.”

Selah Acres is a reflection of Billy’s and Jamie’s desire to reflect God in everything they do, everything they create, and every new challenge they tackle. Though they started with Billy’s dream of miniature donkeys, Selah Acres is now home to many animals, all receiving the best of care. Homesteading has been a slow process of learning new skills and the Batemans are in no rush. “One step at a time,” Jamie assures me as she introduces me to a grouping of animals with endearing names like Jethrow, Buckwheat, and Daisy Mae. The couple has just recently added the sale of meat chickens to the list, and Jamie has her eye on next steps in the garden, too. Of course, her heart is in the kitchen, where she turns the best ingredients into the most delicious foods to share with family and friends.

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Highlands County Master Gardener Volunteers

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BERT J. HARRIS AGRICULTURAL CENTER 4509 GEORGE BLVD., SEBRING

UF/IFAS is an equal opportunity Institution

October & November 2024 31

hen Abraham Lincoln signed the Homestead Act in 1862, he said, “The greatest fine art of the future will be the making of a comfortable living from a small piece of land.” This is a wide open dream with many variations and lots of possibilities. A garden, a perfect loaf of sourdough bread, a handful of chickens, or maybe a small stand of fruit trees can all be small steps in finding a connection to your own little piece of the Earth. Capturing skills of self-reliance redirects your heart to see God’s goodness and provision. The logo for Selah Acres is tagged with Psalm 44:8, “In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever.”

Front (L-R): Ashton Bateman and Max Leonardo Back: Jacob & Emily Bateman, Jamie & Billy Bateman, Taylor & Nathan Leonardo 32

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-Rebecca Maglischo

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L Restocally aur ant Owned and B

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Steaks - Seafood - Pasta We serve Chairman’s Reserve Certified Premium Steaks!

At Cowpoke’s Watering Hole!

We will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th for our staff to spend time with their families.

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6813 US 27 South - Sebring, FLorida 36 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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October & November 2024 37

Kellon Lindsey

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WITH SMALL TOWN ROOTS Kellon Lindsey’s Baseball Journey To The LA Dodgers

By Kristy Harris Photos Courtesy of the Lindsey Family It’s safe to say that most of us didn’t really know what we were going to be when we grew up until we were much older. But for Kellon Lindsey, he knew when he was just four years old. The smell of freshly cut grass and the sound of a ball cracking against a bat have been his whole world since as far back as he can remember. With a coach dad and two older brothers who played baseball, deep down he always knew that playing under those bright stadium lights, hearing the roar of the crowd, and feeling the dirt under his cleats as he sprinted towards first base would be the moments he lived for.

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When asked, “When did you fall in love with baseball?” his answer was simple: “Oh, I’ve always loved baseball!” Growing up in Wauchula, FL, with his older brothers Hayden and Quintin always playing baseball and football, Kellon didn’t have much choice but to be at a field in some shape or form! Naturally, he wanted to do what his brothers did, and his parents, Nicole and Gerry Lindsey, signed him up for t-ball. From then on, it was a constant cycle of football in the fall, baseball in the spring and then travel ball in the summer.

Around age 11, his parents and coaches recognized that he was fast and needed a little more competition. He joined a travel ball team out of Port Charlotte where he worked up to their highest team. In high school, Kellon started his freshman year playing shortstop for Hardee High School and got on another travel ball team—the Scorpions out of Orlando. From those tournaments, Kellon started to get noticed by college scouts. In 10th grade, the coach from the University of South Florida offered him a spot on their team.

While Kellon was very excited to have this offer, he always knew in the back of his mind that he wanted to play baseball for the University of Florida. As luck would have it, in December of his junior year, he and his family traveled to Gainesville so that he could attend a baseball camp at UF, just to see what that was like, and of course, UF wanted him to play baseball for them. For those of you keeping score, that is two college offers to play baseball before his senior year of high school! With that, he had to de-commit from USF. Fast forward to the summer before his senior year. Kellon was sliding into second base during a travel ball tournament in Alabama and broke his leg. Thankfully, in four weeks he was back and playing football during his senior year. That same fall, in October, Kellon was invited to the Florida Diamond Club showcase for prospects in Lakeland at Joker Marchant Stadium.

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That’s when it started! Several scouts for pro teams wanted to meet with Kellon and his family for what was called, “home visits.” Many home visits happened over the next couple months. In January, scouts started inviting Kellon to “workouts.” These consisted of running, batting practice, force plates (to measure the height and force of jumps), etc. Over the course of a few short months, he attended around twenty workouts from various pro teams from all over the country.

This brought Kellon right up to baseball season in his senior year. His high school coaches, Steve Rewis and Hoppy Rewis, joked that there were only about three practices in the whole season where there was not a scout in the stands to see Kellon play.

The Lindsey Family: (L-R): Hayden & Rana, Kellon, Quintin, Nicole & Gerry

“I wasn’t nervous when the scouts were there to watch me play. I know myself, I know my game and I am just going to play the way I’ve always played. My Dad taught me to keep doing what I am doing, and I was raised to believe that my hard work will always pay off,” said Kellon.

Around this time, there was a buzz that he might go in the MLB Draft.

Kellon knew that he had his heart set on playing college baseball at the University of Florida, but ultimately the end goal was to play for “the Bigs”! The fast track to those big stadium lights would be amazing, but any offer from a pro team would need to be substantial if he was going to miss out on UF. In the midst of home visits, workouts and talk of Kellon being in the draft, the Lindseys decided it was time to get an advisor that would eventually become Kellon’s agent “when” he went pro. Enter to the mix Kent Matthes with Stadium Ventures. He went to work right away meeting with pro scouts, and the “bigwigs” started to fly in to watch Kellon play.

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Kellon finished his season, graduated from high school, and in June got invited to attend the 2024 MLB Draft Combine in Phoenix, Arizona at Chase Field. This was very similar to a workout, only it was televised, more intense, and certain teams could request to interview Kellon. One of the drills he participated in was the 30-yard dash. Out of the 300+ young athletes in attendance, he had the first and second fastest times! After that, Kellon had about a month of downtime before the draft.

He put this time to good use by working out with Cory Ritter at Peak Sports Performance in Sebring.

Meanwhile, Kent had a color-coded trajectory map of teams that had their eye on Kellon. Everyone was getting really excited for Draft Day, and Kellon’s parents decided to have a “Fork in the Road” party because, after all, he was either going pro or going to college. On July 14th, 2024, family, friends, and coaches all came together to celebrate Kellon as they waited to see the outcome of the draft.

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“When it started to come down to it, people would stop me in the grocery store and ask, ‘Well has Kellon decided?’ and what people don’t realize is, it’s not like college where you get to pick. We don’t know anything until Draft Day when and if offers come in,” said Kellon’s mom, Nicole.

That night, everyone was on pins and needles waiting for the call from Kent. When Kent finally did call, he had the most incredible news: Kellon had received four official offers from professional baseball teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Atlanta Braves, the San Diego Padres and the Tampa Bay Rays!

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“The Dodgers were one of my top picks heading into the draft,” Kellon said. He knew right away that he was hitting a home run; the Dodgers had used Kellon Lindsey as their first round pick, and he was drafted 23rd overall!

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A week later, Kellon was on a plane to Arizona. Currently, he’s on a Rookie level team in the Arizona Complex League.

Here he is working to build a good foundation and practice with the best of the best. By the spring, Kellon hopes to move up to the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes in California, a Minor League Baseball team and the Single-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The next step from there is to play for a High-A Dodgers team in Michigan, or a Double or Triple A team in Oklahoma. According to MLB.com, Kellon is projected to go pro in 2028.

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“At the end of the day, we are all playing the same game.

Baseball will always be baseball, and I am blessed to be playing with the best.”

-Kellon Lindsey

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October & November 2024 51

Through

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WITH THE

By Gilbert Randall Photography by Michael Mathews and Cindy Sebring Adams

To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, To gain all while you give, To roam the roads of lands remote, To travel is to live.

-Hans Christian Andersen

This quote became an inspiration recently for six Heartland dwellers to extend out and explore the other side of the pond. The journey began as conversations of travel peaked the interest of the group and they soon discovered there were similar interests amongst them for destinations. A plan was developed, and they were off.

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The Italy Chaos Gang (L-R): Nancy Redding, Cindy Adams, Michael Mathews, Gilbert & Kate Randall and Nancy Mathews

The journey began as we assembled at Tampa International Airport, parking, unloading, and making our way to the terminal.

The excitement was evident in our faces as we readied ourselves to connect in New Jersey and catch our long flight ahead to Rome, Italy. Before we knew it, we were in Rome, riding our ground transportation to our Airbnb, which was our home for the next two nights. Our gang consisted of Michael and Nancy Mathews, Cindy Adams, Nancy Redding, my beautiful wife Kate Randall, and me. We made our communication plans using Whatsapp, which is excellent for international communication, and we took on the name of Italy Chaos. As each day passed, it was confirmed to be a proper name for our group.

Our first night in Rome, we walked and enjoyed the architecture, stopping at local cafés to partake of a sampling of the regional fare, a glass of wine, and to watch not only locals but people from all around the world pass by as we dined al fresco into the evening.

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Rome, Italy

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Saint Peter’s Square

Kate at Saint Peter’s Square

Trevi Fountain

At the Colosseum

Rome Saint Clements Basilica

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Spanish Steps

The following day, we took a whirlwind tour of Rome, seeing sites like the Colosseum, Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Our tour guide for the day drove us into Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi, where we were given the treat of observing the local ritual of the firing of the cannon each day at noon. The reaction of the crowd as the cannon fired was priceless.

There were several churches and cathedrals along the way, however, for me, the highlight of the day was entering St. Peter’s Square and standing outside the window from which Pope Francis and so many before him addressed the crowds below. It was enchanting to explore the history and tradition of the city, from the buskers performing in the street to the woman in the window airing out her laundry. We ended our day dining on a rooftop, anticipating the crown jewel of our trip, which would begin the following day.

Rome Aventine Keyhole

We were abuzz with excitement the following morning as we loaded into our transport van for the ride to the seaport where we boarded the MS Oosterdam, which would be our home for the next ten days as we toured the coasts of Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece. Upon boarding, we quickly settled in for the journey, located our home base meeting spot—the Ocean Bar—where we encountered France and Jun, who became our personal information sources for all things cruising as well as our bartenders. Our first night aboard was filled with martinis and wine, music and dancing.

France Salvador The gang at the Ocean Bar on board the MS Oosterdam

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The ship sailed the night away, and we awoke in for a quick stop. We tendered ashore for a walking tour on our own, discovering Portofino to be a place where the rich and famous live and shop. We did a little window shopping, enjoyed a spritz in the afternoon and returned to the ship.

It was an early start the following day as we traveled the countryside into Volterra, a charming village rich in well-preserved 8th century B.C. Etruscan architecture with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding hills. One of the highlights was a visit to the Alabaster Museum which showcases the alabaster carvings the area is known for. This is one of the most beautiful areas of the Tuscan region, in my opinion.

We continued our trek to Lajatico in Tuscany, where we toured the Bocelli Family Farm which was established in 1730 and continues to be family-operated. The farm produces grains, honey, olive oil and,of course, wine. Most of the vines currently in the vineyard are more than 70 years old. The farm is operated today by Alberto and Andrea Bocelli (Andrea has a side gig singing as a fairly accomplished Tenor). We were treated to a sampling of some of the items produced on the farm in the family restaurant in town—meats, cheeses, honey, and, of course, the Bocelli wines. The history of the family is quite interesting if you have an opportunity to read about it.

With our bellies full and our minds enriched, we then traveled into Pisa to see one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Leaning Tower. It was surreal to see up close this structure that I had only seen in pictures.

Portofino

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Bocelli's Home

Cindy holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa La-Sterza - Bocelli Restaurant

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Naples

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The following day found us in Naples, the birthplace of the pizza, so we set out on a mission to find the world's best pizza pie. We broke into groups so as to cover more ground in our search. We indeed found the world’s best pizza pie—in fact, all three of our groups did. I guess we will never know for sure, but I enjoyed mine.

Naples is a beautiful city with abundant street life, excellent food, and friendly people. Although it is situated at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius, we did not venture up for a tour, and in turn the active volcano did not bother us. We made a stop in the Harbor of Messina to check out Sicily, which is a beautiful island that is known for its sandy beaches and an abundance of ancient ruins and archaeological sites. With Mount Etna as a backdrop, Messina is a wonderful area for history and photography aficionados.

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October & November 2024 61

We spent a day cruising the Adriatic Sea up to Croatia, where we traveled to Cavtat. We ate gelato while viewing the clear blue water of the Mediterranean as well as the beautiful architecture and hillsides. We ventured farther up the hillside to Ljuta which is a charming village filled with freshness, from the foods to the water which can be consumed from the flows along the roadside of the town as well as the Ljuta River which is a natural oasis of beauty with figs growing wild along it banks. Situated between Dubrovnik and Ljuta is the Neretva Valley, which is known to the locals as the California Valley.

It is made up of 33 villages and produces around 80% of the fresh fruits and vegetables for Croatia.

We traveled back down to the city of Dubrovnik inside the walls of the Old Town, which you might have seen if you are a fan of The Game of Thrones. To me, Croatia is the most beautiful, friendly, fresh, and healthy country I have visited. The slower-paced work/life balance and family values paint a beautiful picture. It was sad to see this day end, but there were other sights in store.

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We took an exciting 2-hour catamaran ride to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro where we spent the day checking an item off my bucket list: swimming in the Mediterranean Sea whose water is so salty, even a rock like me can float. At 75 degrees, the transparent water was refreshing, to say the least. After a day of relaxing by the sea, we took a short bus ride back to our floating home away from home.

Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea

October & November 2024 63

The next couple of days were spent in Greece, which, again is a beautiful country, but with a clearly struggling economy.

Our trip ended in Athens.

We checked in to our Airbnb and began to tour the city on our own, walking and taking in the sights as we made our way to a highly recommended restaurant—Thanasis. It is known for having the best souvlaki around, and the Athenians call it the Kabob Place.

The following day was an adventure as we took in the Temple of Zeus with the remains of the Roman Baths, the Changing of the Guard at the presidential home, and the Panathenaic Olympic Stadium. The Roman Agora of Athens was a lovely area where we saw the first early weather station and toured a museum.

I noticed that from every location in the city, I could see the Acropolis, and that was one of our last stops of the day. We stood at the base, and I thought, “Am I walking to the top of that?” Well, I did, and seeing the Parthenon up close and personal was well worth the climb. I stood in awe as I looked over the city of Athens from that defensive position. My mind flooded with thoughts of the men who had stood on that same point over thousands of years in defense of their city.

The stories, the history, and the current lifestyle all create emotions that aren’t experienced every day.

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Temple of Zeus

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As we sat on our balcony on the last night of our journey, we reflected on the past couple of weeks and looked forward to our future travels with current friends and friends we have yet to meet.

It was a feeling similar to the one you might get on a front porch on a Sunday afternoon in Fort Green Springs, Florida, where you might say, “and a good time was had by all.”

So for now,

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October & November 2024 69

GOOD

GREAT

By Carissa Marine

It is winter in Paraguay while it is summer here in Florida.

Even with the colder weather, the dark green foliage and red dirt stand out in this land-locked South American country. With a population of less than 2% Christians, much of Paraguay consists of “unreached people groups”—those who have never heard the gospel and “good news” of Jesus Christ.

Samaritan’s Purse, a non-denominational Christian relief organization, provides spiritual and physical aid to victims of war, natural disasters, disease, and more all around the world. The work of Samaritan's Purse follows the example of Christ and the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 by helping those in need and proclaiming the hope of the gospel. The largest project of Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child, demonstrates God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world through shoebox gifts, connecting the Church worldwide to share the gospel.

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hrough simple shoebox gifts filled with toys, hygiene products, school supplies, and personal notes, Operation Christmas Child is currently reaching over 11 million children every year with the “good news” of Jesus Christ. Lori Bell, volunteer Area Coordinator for the Operation Christmas Child South Central Florida Area Team, shares, “I always add a personalized message to each box I pack, such as a photo of my family with a note on the back or a short letter.” She tops her fully packed shoeboxes with a fun toy and then prays for God to touch the heart of the child who will receive it.

Operation Christmas Child partners with over 80,000 churches across the U.S. to pack and donate these shoebox gifts. Once collected, the shoeboxes are processed by volunteers at eight processing centers nationwide. The gifts are then packed into cartons and shipped to approximately 100 countries every year, and received by National Leadership Teams. These teams partner with trained pastors who organize outreach events to distribute the gifts and share the gospel message.

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Pastor Alcides Torres and his wife Claudia

Carissa with Abdias, 16, who helps minister to children

his summer, I had the privilege of traveling to Paraguay on an Operation Christmas Child vision trip.

On the first day, our team joined Pastor Alcides Torres and his wife Claudia at their church, Iglesia del Evangelico Pleno Emanuel in San Lorenzo. This year, their church had been focusing their outreach in two distinct areas within the city: one with families living in relatively stable conditions in brick homes, and another where families struggle with poverty, residing on public land in makeshift shelters made from salvaged materials like bricks, wood, and tarps.

Pastor Alcides organized this special outreach event at their church, inviting the children from both neighborhoods. The event was engaging and joyful, similar to a Vacation Bible School experience in the U.S. It began with teenagers from the church leading the children, ranging in age from 2 to 14, in energetic songs with lively hand motions and dancing. Following the music, a church member and trained Operation Christmas Child teacher told the children about the birth of Jesus, His miracles, His crucifixion and resurrection, and the profound love He has for each of them. She emphasized that Jesus desires a personal relationship with everyone, and invited those who wished to become friends with Jesus to pray with her, accepting Him as their Savior.

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ext, with great excitement, the team removed plain white sheets which had been discretely covering the cartons of shoeboxes on either side of the front of the church, as the teacher told the children they would each be receiving a very special gift. Our team was blessed to help pass out the shoebox gifts one by one to each child, saying “Jesus te ama” (Jesus loves you). Once each child was holding their own shoebox, the teacher had them drum on their shoeboxes with their hands and count down 5-4-3-2-1 and then open their gifts all together.

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I ended up near the back of the church beside the girls ranging from about ten to fourteen years old. One of my personal prayers going into this outreach event, since I do not speak much Spanish, was to be able to communicate with the children. One girl right next to me opened her shoebox and immediately pulled out a little graduation owl Beanie Baby. When she saw it, she hugged it and looked up at me with pure joy and gratitude saying, “Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

I knelt down beside her and enjoyed celebrating the toys and items in the shoeboxes with her and the girls near her. She spoke broken English, and I found out her name was Nicole, and that she was 11 years old. When I asked if she was learning English in school, she said, “No, on Duolingo.” Duolingo is a language-learning app, and Nicole later shared that she loves America and wants to visit America someday.

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After the girls had looked through everything in their shoeboxes, I asked them what their favorite items were. Nicole had several cute pieces of jewelry, hair accessories, school supplies, and more in her shoebox, and yet she held up the owl as her favorite item. I asked her what she was going to name it, and she said “Duolingo!” (at which point I finally put together the connection as the icon for the Duolingo app is an owl).

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76 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

t was a miraculous blessing to have the Lord answer my personal prayer to be able to communicate with Nicole through her broken English and my minimal Spanish, as well as to see how specifically the Lord orchestrates each shoebox gift. She received that specific shoebox with the little owl to encourage her in her languagelearning and God-given desire to travel and one day visit America.

Carla Tambrino, volunteer Area Coordinator with the Operation Christmas Child Polk Area Team, reflects on the deeper significance of the shoebox gifts. “People often think we’re just giving material gifts to children in need. However, what Operation Christmas Child truly provides is a tangible expression of love and care.”

You, too, can be a part of sharing “Good News and Great Joy” all around the world right from Florida. Each year, leading up to Thanksgiving, local churches and organizations collect shoebox gifts. To participate, you may either fill Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes from the Samaritan’s Purse website or regular shoeboxes. National collection week is from November 18-25, 2024, and you may find your nearest drop-off location by entering your zip code on the Samaritan’s Purse website. Additionally, shoeboxes can be packed online throughout the entire year. To learn more, order materials, or connect with your local team, visit www.samaritanspurse.org/ what-we-do/operation-christmaschild/. May you experience “Good News and Great Joy” this upcoming holiday season!

Carissa Marine lives in Sebring and serves as a Regional Manager with the Florida/Puerto Rico Operation Christmas Child Samaritan’s Purse Team. www.samaritanspurse.org/what-wedo/operation-christmas-child.

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People often think we’re just giving material gifts to children in need.

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- Carla Tambrino, volunteer Area Coordinator with the Operation Christmas Child Polk Area Team

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By Christy Swift

It’s one of the things that makes Lake Placid so special—Toby’s Clown Foundation. This not-for-profit clown school, museum, and community has been making people in the Heartland smile for 30 years now. One of only a handful of functioning clown schools in the U.S., Toby’s hopes to be around for 30-plus years more, which is why they’re hosting their first fundraiser, the “Clownin A Round” Golf Tournament on October 26th at the Golf Hammock Country Club.

“We’re excited about it,” says Toby’s president Debbie “Silly Dilly” Von Arx, president of Toby’s Clowns. “If it does well, we’ll continue it every year.”

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Toby's Clown Museum & School (Eastern Wall) Mural by Keith Goodson (2010)

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You can’t live here long without seeing signs that Lake Placid is a proud “clown town.” Toby’s Clowns participate in local events all year long, including the County Fair in Devane Park every February, the Caladium Festival in July, and all three Highlands County Christmas parades. They also visit nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Some clowns do parties as well.

Then there’s the cheerful Clown Museum located on the Circle at 109 W. Interlake Blvd. It even sports one of Lake Placid’s iconic murals—of clowns, of course. Inside, new clowns are made every year during three 3-day sessions in February, June, and November. The building also houses the Clown Museum featuring clown memorabilia and the Gift Shop chock full of souvenirs as well as everything a clown needs for their craft.

There are currently 91 Toby’s Clown graduates from locations as far-flung as Washington State, Maine, Canada, and Mexico. Many of the local clowns will attend the golf tournament, including Silly Dilly herself, Toby’s VP Esther "Loopy" Lane, Treasurer L. McQueen “Raggles” Small, Secretary Vicki "Binko" Le Pree, and Heather “Supercute” McFall. The funds raised will help to keep this iconic organization open and ready to entertain visitors and keep clowning alive.

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Learning How to Officially Silly Dilly attended Toby’s Clown School in 2017. She went through an intensive 3-day training learning to do clown makeup, balloon animals, juggling, puppetry, magic, face-painting, and skits. If it sounds like a lot, it is, but Dilly has a tip: “You can just about make anything if you know how to make a dog.”

She’s the second in three generations of clowns. Her father, John “Forgetful Willee” Boyd was a Shiner’s clown. Her daughter, Kayla “Koo Koo Puff” Kroschel got the clown gene, too. Dilly shared a surprising fact about clowns—many are retired from jobs as school teachers or in the medical field. “I was a respiratory therapist. We have nurses, doctors, lab techs,” she says.

It seems that clowning is just a different form of serving others. That makes even more sense when Dilly shares her favorite part of clowning: “Making the kids laugh.”

Speaking of kids, Toby’s offers classes for young clown hopefuls as well. Loopy teaches the Junior Joeys twice a year for three half-days. Kids ages seven to 17 learn the three basic clown makeup techniques, costuming, storytelling with puppets, balloon art, face painting, skits, and pocket magic. The class is crowned by a Sunday graduation with skits and magic performed for family and friends. Toby’s considered these young people their “ambassadors to clowning.”

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Lake Placid’s But how did this all start, and when? Why, in 1993, with one man—Keith Stokes, affectionately known as "Toby" by his fellow Shriners. Toby, spending part of his retirement in the community, missed the joy and fulfillment he found in clowning.

Determined to bring that joy to others, Toby approached Florida Hospital - Heartland Medical Center and arranged to entertain patients with his clowning skills. His performances were a hit, lifting the spirits of patients and hospital staff alike. Recognizing the positive impact Toby made, the hospital agreed to let him use their meeting rooms to train others in the art of clowning.

Keith "Toby" Stokes

By 1993, the first class of clowns had graduated, and two years later, Toby's Clown Alley #296 was officially chartered by Clowns of America International. To support their efforts, Toby the Clown Foundation was formed as a non-profit organization, helping with fundraising to keep the clowning spirit alive.

In January 2010, the Toby’s building opened. Along with space for meetings and clown classes, it now houses about 2500 pieces of clown memorabilia (including a stunning salt-and-pepper shaker collection), a gift shop, and administrative offices—keeping Toby’s legacy alive and the smiles coming for years to come.

Support If you’re a golfer and want to do your part to support Lake Placid’s clowns, mark your calendars for the “Clownin A Round” Golf Tournament on October 26th at the Golf Hammock Country Club. Check-in is at 7:00AM with a shotgun start at 8:00AM. This is a 4-hour, 18-hole event, and all for a good (and silly!) cause. Register today at tobysgolftournament.com or look for the QR code on flyers found at Toby’s Clown School and around Highlands County.

And if you’re better with a really long balloon than a five iron, consider clowning around, literally, in Toby’s Clown School classes.

Silly Dilly recommends it: “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing that people can do and have fun. The more the merrier!”

86 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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More Than a Commission: How the Turned My Art into an Experience

By Bridgette Waldau Photography by Jay Bentley, Tara Leavitt and Bridgette Waldau

90 Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

A

s a professional artist, I have designed many event images in the medium of illustrations, paintings and digital art.

And in most cases, when the job is completed, I’m compensated and send the art on its merry way to the client. However, a job I recently completed came with an unexpected twist.

Cindy Spritzer from Greensboro, GA, near Lake Oconee, commissioned me to design an image for a new event, the Waterway Soiree. This event was meant to bring the community together to celebrate the area’s cherished lakes and natural resources. She told me what she visualized for an inaugural poster, and within a few weeks, the design was finalized. Due to time constraints, I couldn’t paint the image, but I was able to turn my illustration into a digital art form.

I have known Cindy for many years when she lived in Florida and when she moved to the Lake Oconee area three years ago with her fiancé, Todd Kuntze, they both immersed themselves in their new community. When Cindy contacted me, I was beyond thrilled to work with her. I loved the ‘50s pin-up theme.

I designed the image, but also posters, flyers, banners and tee shirts. Upon receiving final approval, I prepared the files and sent the art along.

Soon after, Cindy invited me to the event as a feature artist. She wanted the community to meet the artist who had designed the inaugural poster. It was humbling to say the least. Once my husband, Jim, and I decided to make the trip, Cindy awarded us with the most unimaginable VIP treatment. We had no clue what we were about to experience.

Bridgette and Jim Waldau at Ritz Carlton, Lake Oconee

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D

riving seven and a half hours from Venice, FL, once we exited Hwy 16 near Macon, we began traveling through winding roads with stunning countryside and beautiful lakes. Cindy arranged for us to stay our first night at the RitzCarlton Reynolds, a Lake Oconee resort with great views and a stunning golf course. We were able to take in the beauty of the lake and dine at the resort’s restaurant, Gaby's by the Lake. After a relaxing evening, we were ready for the Waterway Soiree.

The next morning, we moved to a new location in Cindy and Todd's neck of the woods, staying in their lake and golf course community, Reynolds Lake Oconee. Our room was beautiful and the surroundings breathtaking, including, a stunning golf course.

The Waterway Soiree took place on August 23 – 25 and began on Friday with the “Livin’ La Vida Lake” party at The Sixty-Two Venue in Madison. This VIP welcome party included food, drinks, music and dancing. We entered the venue on a gold carpet with a larger-than-life welcome banner of my design. I did not expect my art to be everywhere in the room, not only on the banners, but on tee shirts, in a local magazine and in swag bags. I was especially touched by the collectible posters on canvas they created. Cindy went out of her way to publicly welcome and introduce me. It was such an honor.

Bridgette with Marcus Saiz de la Mora, who designed the Waterway Soiree website

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Bridgette at the “Livin’ La Vida Lake” welcome party

Mark Cameron, Jamaican chef at “Jamaican Me Crazy” and famed Miami Art Basel artist

S

aturday, the journey continued with four themed “Lake Hops.” It began with a “Meet and Greet” at Oconee Brewing Company.

Greensboro Mayor Corey Williams opened the event, with an official declaration of Water Soiree Day. The event’s main highlight was the appearance of five-time BBQ World Champion, Myron Mixon. He presented a grilling demonstration, sharing his tips and cooking skills.

Besides music, beer and food, the event also included the ladies of the Georgia Pin-Up Posse, who also traveled to all the Lake Hops, bringing life to the pin up theme. I met Maggie Milner, president of the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce, who was the official pin-up model.

The swimsuit in the poster image was designed to match what she wore throughout the event.

After this, we went to three other hops.

Bridgette and Myron Mixon

“Jamaican Me Crazy” at Old Salem Park, featured a steel drum band, Polynesian dancers and fire performers. Renowned Jamaican chef and artist, Mark Cameron, served up authentic Caribbean cuisine.

“Fiesta Hop” at Parks Ferry had a lively atmosphere with a Mariachi band and included delicious street tacos and tapas. The Oconee Regional Humane Society was there with adoptable pets.

I must say it was tempting to bring a furry friend back to Florida.

Pin-up model Maggie Milner and the Georgia Pin-Up Posse

(L-R) Mayor Corey Williams with event organizers Cindy Spritzer, Todd Kuntze and Lisa Krumper

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he last stop of the day was “Dessert Hop” at Sun Life Marina, a spot on a breathtaking lake. The classic Chris-Craft wooden boat, Timeless, which was the model for the boat image on the poster, was giving visitors boat rides. Although we were too late to enjoy a ride of our own, we enjoyed the desserts, drinks and music by a great soul band.

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T

Reynolds Lake Oconee

hroughout the weekend, Cindy and her team were great to us. Everywhere I looked, my art was present, and it was a lot to take in. Although we were unable to stay for the last event on Sunday, Cindy and Todd were the best hosts and made our visit special.

When you create a piece of art, you are exposing yourself to others’ opinions – good and bad. I value my work and have been blessed to do what I love. Awards and accolades are great, but they never define who I am as an artist. However, when I am recognized, such as I was with this job, I must say it is sweet icing on the cake. My sincere thanks to Cindy, Todd and their team for honoring me.

Cindy Spritzer with Bridgette

I recommend a trip to beautiful Lake Oconee, GA. Attend next year’s 2025 Waterway Soiree, and you will experience a tour of the whole area. Go to www. waterwaysoiree.com for more information. I have already been commissioned to design new art for next year. If you attend, you just may see me.

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Myron Mixon Shares His Recipes!

By Bridgette Waldau At the Waterway Soiree in Oconee, Ga., I had the privilege to meet “BBQ King” Myron Mixon at his “Meet & Greet” at Oconee Brewing Company.

From Unadilla, Ga, Mixon is a five-time BBQ world champion, winner of over 1800 championships and Barbecue Hall of Famer. He runs a cooking school, makes global TV appearances and crafted a line of smokers, sauces and rubs sold worldwide. At the event he presented a grilling demonstration, sharing his tips and cooking skills. He was also selling and signing one of his five best-selling cookbooks, Smokin’ with Myron Mixon. He was so kind as to give me permission to share a few of his smokin’ recipes, all taken from his book, with Heartland Living Magazine. His 170-page book offers a variety of meals that you can cook with a smoker or on you own stove top, and the book also includes rubs & sauces, desserts and drinks. My thanks to Myron Mixon for sharing his recipes with us.

Myron Mixon at the Waterway Soiree "Meet & Greet" - Photo by Jay Bentley

"My favorite rib to cook and eat is the baby back. I learned competitive cooking at MIM contests and that’s their rib of choice. I just developed a real love for them. They’re fun to cook and fun to eat, and they almost always earn me money. Even I can’t ask for more than that!" - Myron Mixon

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Serves 4 to 6

INGREDIENTS 4 racks baby back ribs 1 recipe Rib Marinade 3 cups Jack’s Old South Original Rub 1 recipe Rib Spritz (page 103) 1 cup apple juice 1 recipe Hog Glaze (page 103) What you’ll need: Cutting board Sharp boning knife or paring knife Paper towels or clean kitchen towels

INSTRUCTIONS 1. One at a time, place the racks on a cutting board, bone side up, and remove the membrane (or “silver”): At whichever end of the rack seems easier, work your fingers underneath the membrane until you have 2 to 3 inches cleared. Grab the membrane with a towel and gently but firmly pull it away from the ribs. Pulling off the membrane exposes loose fat that will need trimming, so take your knife and cut out any excess fat. Now the racks are ready.

2. Set the racks in an aluminum baking pan and cover them completely with the rib marinade. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and let it sit for 4 hours, either in the refrigerator or, if you’re at a contest or in a picnic situation, in a cooler packed with ice.

3. When you are ready to cook them, remove the ribs from the marinade. Pat them dry with towels.

Apply the rub lightly around the edges of the ribs, over the back side of them, and on top. Then let the ribs sit, uncovered, at room temperature for 30 minutes.

5. Put the ribs in a baking pan, put the pan in the smoker, and cook for 2 hours. After the first 30 minutes of cooking, spritz the ribs. Continue to spritz at 15-minute intervals for the duration of the cooking time. (The ribs should be uncovered so they can absorb as much smoke as possible.)

6. Remove the pan from the smoker. Pour the apple juice into a clean aluminum baking pan. Place the ribs in the pan, bone side down, and cover the pan with aluminum foil. Place the pan in the smoker and cook for 1 hour.

7. Remove the pan from the smoker and shut off the heat on the smoker. Remove the foil, and apply the glaze to the top and bottom of the slabs of ribs.

Re-cover the pan with foil, return it to the smoker, and let the ribs rest in the smoker for 30 minutes as the temperature gradually decreases.

8. Remove the ribs from the pan and let them rest for 10 minutes on a wooden cutting board. Then cut and serve.

4. In the meantime, heat a smoker to 250°F. 99

Makes 1 dozen

INGREDIENTS 1½ tablespoon Chicken Sauce and Glaze (page 103) 1½ tablespoons hot sauce 2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted 6 chicken wings Vegetable oil, for deep-frying

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large stainless steel bowl, combine the chicken sauce, hot sauce, and melted butter.

Set aside.

2. Using a very sharp knife, cut each wing in half to separate the flat from the drumette.

Wash the pieces well and pat them dry.

100

3. Heat a heavy, deep skillet, preferably castiron, over high heat. Pour enough oil into the hot skillet to come halfway up the sides.

Heat the oil until it is hot and shimmering but not smoking (if using an electric skillet, heat it to 350°F).

4. Using tongs, carefully place the chicken wings in the hot oil. Fry the wings, turning them over halfway through, until golden brown, about 10 minutes.

5. Transfer the wings to paper towels to drain. Then quickly place them in the bowl of sauce and toss until they are coated evenly. Get your favorite condiment and enjoy immediately.

"I may be from a small town in south Georgia, but that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy some fancy food, too. And just as I don’t expect people to turn their noses up at cheap pork shoulders that are delicious smoked, I don’t turn mine up at lobster tails. They’re expensive, but, man, are they good—especially if you cook the tails in the smoker. Try It!" - Myron Mixon

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS 4 raw lobster tails, shells on 3 tablespoons olive oil Salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste For the salad: 2 tablespoons mayonnaise Juice of 1 lemon 2 celery stalks, chopped ¼ head iceberg lettuce, shredded For serving: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted What you will need: Kitchen scissors

INSTRUCTIONS Heat a smoker to 325°F. 1. Using kitchen scissors, cut down the middle of the top of the lobster tails until they are nearly split. Pull the shell apart until the meat is exposed.

Place in a bowl and season the tails with the olive oil, salt and pepper: toss to coat. Place the lobster tails in a large aluminum pan, place the pan in the smoker, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the meat turns completely white and the tails begin to curl up tightly.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the salad: In a medium bowl, stir the mayonnaise and lemon juice together until blended. Then add the celery and lettuce, and toss.

Set aside.

3. Remove the lobster tails from the smoker. Do not let the tails cool completely or the meat will become tough. Serve immediately with the melted butter for drizzling and the salad on the side.

101

"Anybody who’s ever seen me on Pitmasters knows that Crown Royal is my drink of choice. Students who come to my classes bring me bottles; folks who come up to my rig at barbecue contests bring me bottles, too. I’m grateful, because after a long day of barbecuing I always relax with a little Crown and water—because every king can always use another Crown. But on occasion, I like to surprise my liver with something different. This is as Georgia of a drink as you can get, with a little help from our Canadian neighbors." - Myron Mixon Makes 2 cocktails

INGREDIENTS 1 quart cold water 2 ounces Crown Royal whiskey 2 ounces (1/4 cup) peach schnapps Splash of cherry syrup 4 ice cubes 2 quarters of a fresh ripe Georgia peach, peeled 2 fresh mint leaves

INSTRUCTIONS In a cocktail shaker or a large glass, combine the Crown Royal, schnapps, and syrup. Stir together. Place 2 ice cubes in each cocktail glass, and pour the mixture over the ice.

Garnish each cocktail with a peach quarter and mint leaf.

102

CHICKEN SAUCE AND GLAZE

HOG GLAZE Makes 8 cups

Makes 6 cups

INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS

RIB SPRITZ Makes about 5 cups You can make it up to a day in advance and store in the spray bottle or do it right after you put your ribs on the smoker, and then start spritzing after your ribs have been on the smoker for 45 minutes. Spritz the meat at 15-minute intervals.

INGREDIENTS 3 cups apple juice 2 cups white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons liquid imitation butter

INSTRUCTIONS In a large spray bottle (one that will hold at least 5 cups of liquid), combine all the ingredients.

Shake well to blend.

1 cup ketchup 1 cup Jack's Old South Vinegar Sauce 1 cup Jack's Old South Hickory Sauce 1 cup honey 1 cup maple syrup 1 cup (packed ) dark brown sugar 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

2 cup Jack’s Old South Vinegar Sauce 2 18-ounce jars apple jelly 2 cups light corn syrup

INSTRUCTIONS Combine all the ingredients in a blender, and blend until thoroughly combined, about 3 minutes. Pour out into a clean bowl, using a plastic spatula to scrape it all. Store, refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

INSTRUCTIONS Pour all the ingredients into a large blender. Combine throughly, blending for at least 3 minutes. Pour the mixture into a medium pot and stir constantly over medium heat until the sauce is hot. Do not allow it to boil.

Remove from the stove and use while hot.

If you're reserving it for later use, pour the sauce into a large bottle or other container. Store, refrigerated for up to 2 months.

Always reheat this sauce before using.

Recipes and photos reprinted with the permission of Myron Mixon, from his cookbook, Smokin' with Myron Mixon.

Recipes photos, other than drink photos, are by cookbook photographer Alex Martinez For more information about Myron Mixon go to his website

www.myronmixon.com

103

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