LIVING
April | May 2013
national top performer on key quality measures.
Highlands Regional Medical Center is one of only 244 U.S. hospitals and critical care access hospitals recognized by The Joint Commission as a Top Performer on Key Quality Measures™ accountability measures for two consecutive years, 2010 and 2011. This recognition means an organization has met or exceeded two crucial 95 percent quality performance thresholds. Highlands Regional Medical Center met two thresholds, including heart failure care and pneumonia care. Earning this distinction inspires us to work even harder to be your number one choice in healthcare. Highlands Regional Medical Center is proud to be the only hospital in the county to receive this prestigious recognition. Learn more at HighlandsRegional.com
2 | April May 2013 Heartland
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April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 3
Letter From
THE PUBLISHER Welcome. We are very excited to share with you our April/May
Issue of Heartland LIVING.
PUBLISHER
Let me introduce to you an adorable baby rhino, “Hope”. She is so sweet and I would have never thought I would have had the honor to spend a day like we did at the Center for Conservation of Tropic Ungulates. We thank Dr. Mark Davis and your staff. Mark is truly a man that cares about God’s creations and he is all about “giving back”. What an amazing day as we really thought we were in Africa at times. I won’t spoil the story but we hope you enjoy Mark’s journey from here to Africa and back. Photographer Rafael Pacheco stepped out of the box for this cover. We would like to take a moment to say thanks to everyone who has visited our website, emailed us and met us while we were out in the community. We appreciate your overwhelming positive feedback on our new look and new additions in 2013. It gives us great satisfaction and makes what we do even more enjoyable and rewarding. We will never stop trying to raise the bar for the quality of Heartland LIVING. We’re hearing how much you love the events calendar because it is easy to find all the events and happenings in the Heartland area. We really are your “Regional magazine with that personal Community feel”. The dining guide is another popular addition, not only for the locals but also to all the hotels, who place copies of Heartland LIVING in each hotel room. I received the nicest email from a couple visiting from Ohio, who picked up the magazine and not only discovered one of our finest restaurants, but also read Ryan’s story and emailed me because it touched their hearts. Thanks to the readers for all the concerns you have shared with us for Ryan Arnold, whose story is in our Fe./Mar. issue. You can read his follow-up story in this issue. What an amazing blessed young man. Pastor Mark Graham started producing The Story of Jesus 25-years-ago and to date the attendance is approaching 400,000 people. Please check out the performance dates and times. We hope you and your family can make it to Hardee County to see this wonderful production. Our local Guardian ad Litem program is also featured in this issue. The volunteers are really the voice for the child. Thanks to all of them for caring from their heart. This issue also presents the new changes for Sebring International Raceway with the merger of the American Le Mans Series and the Grand-Am series. Tres Stephenson, president and general manager of SIR, gives us his insights on the changes. With the summer approaching, many brides are looking forward to preparing for their wedding. In this issue you will find our inaugural Heartland LIVING Wedding Style. This special bridal section provides steps and survival tips to help plan your perfect wedding. Check out our many local vendors advertising in this section that will help you with all your wedding needs. As you will discover, this issue is full of new and inspirational stories. In addition to events happening in the Heartland, you will not be disappointed reading our regular columns. From all of us here at Heartland LIVING, we hope you enjoy reading this issue and hope you enjoy the springtime.
4 | April May 2013 Heartland
Blessings to you and your family,
Cindy Sebring Adams LIVING
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.
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Most insurances are accepted and emergencies are welcome.
April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 5
Heartland LIVING CONTENTS | April May 2013
FEATURES of Hope 10 Horns By Pamela Glinski
10 Special Sections
20 Guardian Ad Litem By Christy Swift
of Jesus Then and Now 26 Story By R.T. Byrum International Raceway 32 Sebring By Jessica Adams
26
8 Ryan Arnold Follow-up Letter from the Arnold Family 39 Heartland LIVING Wedding Style
Columns 48 Heartland Heros Arcadia Youth Rodeo 50 Woman2Woman Kristin Olivenbaum 52 Showcasing The Arts Okeechobee Main Street Murals 54 Healthy Heartland Developing Heathy Habits 56 Fishing in the Heartland Piscatorial Pitbulls 58 The Wine Cellar German Wines 60 Southern Chef Recipes by Layne Prescott 64 Restaurant Review Cang Tong Restaurant
Heartland Events
16 Stamp Out Hunger 18 24 30 31
20
6 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
-Postal Food Drive Lake Placid Chamber -Luncheon Taylor Renee’ Fulford -The Heart of a Queen Sebring Humane Society’s -Flashlight Egg Hunt HAL “The Art in Grieving Workshop
32
62 Dining Guide 68 Calendar of Community Event 70 Advertisers Index
Cover Photo by Rafael Pacheco Horns or Hope Mark Davis with Brahmaoutra Story on page 10
LIVING
April | May 2013
Heartland
LIVING
April May 2013
GB’s Ladies &Men’s Formal Wear GB’s Ladies and Men’s formal wear, provides a great selection of semi-formal and formal gowns, tuxedos, suits as well as all of your bridal needs.
CEO |Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams Creative | Art Director Bridgette Waldau Editorial Director Jessica Adams Feature Writers
Jessica Adams R.T. Byrum Pamela Glinski Christy Swift
Wedding Event Planning & Linen Rental One Stop Shopping for all your Wedding Needs
Contributing Writers
Amanda Armentrout Jon Armentrout Donny Arnold Dan Echols Nicole La Placa David Padgitt Layne Prescott
Voted the #1 event planner in Highlands County.
Cover & Feature Photographer Rafael Pacheco Feature Photographers
Jessica Adams Pam Glinski R.T. Byrum
Private Collection Partner with Alfred Angelo
Contributing Photographers
Nichole Duyn Power and Light Productions Sebring International Raceway
Alfred Angelo Disney Collection Jasmine Adna Impressions Watters - WTOO
Advertising Department Cindy Sebring Adams Jessica Adams 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 Heartland Living Magazine is published quarterly by Heartland Publications & Marketing. Copyright 2013, 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. Letters from our readers are not only welcome but encouraged.
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www.gbformalwear.com April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 7
I
Hope, Faith & Perseverance Ryan Arnold, 7-year-old Okeechobee Moyamoya Patient Follow Up
believe that God puts circumstances in our lives that were intended to mold us into who he wants us to become. In my heart I believe that we were meant to go through this trial for several reasons; to grow closer in our relationship with the Lord and so that we could reach, inspire and help others. Donny has already been corresponding with other parents that have children that have been diagnosed with moyamoya and are fighting their insurance companies to get the best care for their children. Ryan today is the same little man that he was before with the exception of the 10.2 cm scar on the left side of his head. He is anxiously waiting his 3-month post-surgery date, which is just a few weeks away, so that he can play at recess, participate in physical education, ride his bike, scooter and pogo stick. Ryan amazed us when he was reading a book just day after surgery and he continues to excel in school. He is our hero and has been a little soldier. We have been blessed so richly throughout this trial. In Ryan’s future, this July Ryan will have to have a MRI and a MRA to check the blood flow that was created from the surgery in Jan. We will be having Ryan with his sister Rylie on the that test done here in Florida with the results being sent to Dr. Michael shore of Lake Okeechobee. Scott at Boston Children’s Hospital. In Jan., 2014 we will have to travel to Boston for Ryan to have an invasive procedure called a Cerebral Angiogram and will be performed by Dr. Scott at Boston Children’s Hospital. This test will let Dr. Scott know how well the left sided surgery went, as well as the progression of the moyamoya disease on the right side of Ryan’s brain that had a 40% blockage when the test was performed in 2012 at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Scott states, “There is a risk of 45% of the moyamoya patients, once surgery is performed on one side of the brain, the narrowing on the good side will progress rapidly.” Our reply to him was simply,” But 55% doesn’t progress rapidly, correct?” We are still in prayer as to how we should move forward with the monies raised by the outpouring of love from our community and surrounding communities. We both want to continue on with Rallying Around Ryan. We know that God has a plan for Ryan and our family. As for now we are going to start working on the paperwork to begin a foundation, that will help others in need, not only moyamoya patients, but also help others in our community. We appreciate Cindy and Heartland Living for the interest in our story and we promise to update you in the future.
Madonna Arnold Ryan Arnold’s follow-up from the story in Heartland Living Feb./Mar. 2013 issue is provided by Ryan’s parents, Donny and Madonna Arnold. 8 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
Destination Downtown Sebring Presents
2nd
Annual
Green Thumb Festival Join Downtown Sebring in “Celebrating Mother Earth” for National Arbor Day and International Earth Day at this 2nd annual city festival with fun for the whole family!
Friday, April 12, 5pm-8pm in Historic Downtown Sebring
Local Plant Vendors
including McCracken Farms, Robbins Nursery & Orchid Hill Stables
Local Produce Vendors
including Purples & Greens Organics, Wright’s Hydro Farms, McCracken Farms & Orchid Hill Stables
Garden Art Hyrdroponic Systems for home use Wine Tasting by Henscratch Farms & Winery
FREE Orange Juice
samples sponsored by Highlands County Citrus Growers Association
Live Bluegrass performance by Flatland band Live music & print advertising sponsored by Sebring Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)
For more information on events and merchant specials visit:
www.DestinationDowntownSebring.com February March 2013 Heartland April May LIVING 2013 | Heartland 9 LIVING | 9 www.DowntownSebring.org
Hope flourishes and
grows under the watchful care of her human surrogates.
10 | February March April May 2013 Heartland 2013 Heartland LIVING LIVING
Caring for God’s Creation
By Pamela Glinski Photos by Rafael Pacheco
ON
a cold December mo r n ing when veterinarian Dr. Mark Davis found a newborn Indian Rhino at the Center for Conservation of Tropic Ungulates (CCTU) abandoned by its mother, he knew immediately intervention was the only hope for the struggling 117 lb. baby.
aptly named “Hope,” has flourished, gaining approximately two pounds a day under the watchful care of her human surrogates. “We hope to introduce her to her mother when she is about 8-months-old so she can learn to be a rhino,” said the highly respected veterinarian. He noted that if she is able to bond with her mother the next step will be reintroduction to the herd.
Davis not only treats horses, sheep, goats and cattle in the rural Southwest Florida community of Arcadia, he is also responsible for the care of a wide variety of exotic wildlife at CCTU, a private A graduate of the UniverDr. Mark Davis bottle feeds Hope. conservation facility known sity of Georgia, College for its spacious, natural habof Veterinary Medicine, itats and successful breeding programs for rare and en- Dr. Davis has operated the Arcadia Animal Hospital at dangered African hoofed stock. 2865 SE Hwy 31 since 1986. This animal advocate also describes himself as a family man with his wife, Brenda, Owner Brad Kelley is a dedicated conservationist who his 27-year-old son, Adam, Veronica Alejo and his grandsupports conservation programs and institutions both in daughter Regan, all living in the area. the United States and internationally. Davis’ decision to become a veterinarian came only after Davis said that only about 2800 Indian Rhinos remain in working as a teacher for several years, first in the Katanga existence. With an average lifespan of 35 to 40 years, Province of the Congo and then in Atlanta. Though he and a gestation period of 17 months, captive-bred ani- had graduated with degrees in education and biology, mals are important for this species survival. Davis discovered his true calling after he was asked to accompany a shipment of elephants and rhinos to the In the past few months the 300 pound playful infant, United States from Kenya. April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 11
(L-R) Hope’s mother (Godavari) and her older sister.
“I found I was hooked on animals,” said Davis with a smile. “Being a large animal veterinarian gave me opportunities to go back to Africa. Africa gets in your blood. I try to go back every other year.” Growing up among the Lunda Tribe in the Congo bush, the son of Methodist missionaries Billy and Doris Davis, Mark developed a deep appreciation for the delicate balance between nature, wildlife and mankind’s existence. “No matter what faith you belong to, we have all been mandated to be good stewards of God’s creation. This is not a political cause; it is not a liberal or conservative issue. We only have one planet,” stressed Davis. “Everyone has a personal responsibility.” Protecting endangered animals and natural resources is the topic of Davis’ autobiographical film “Horns of Hope.” The 22-minute movie, used as a teaching tool by Davis, documents his harrowing experiences during a 2009 expedition to Zimbabwe to save 40 critically endangered black rhinoceros. “It is a war and we are losing the battle. The resources it takes to protect these spectacular creatures are enormous,” said Davis. During his three week mission, nine of the rhinos the project was trying to relocate were found slaughtered with their horns hacked from their corpses. Known by their prehensile upper lip and double horn, three of the four sub-species of the black rhino were decimated 12 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
between 1970 and 1992, with almost 96 percent of the population lost. By 1997, there were as few as 2300 black rhinos left in the world. They were hunted for their highly coveted horns used in ancient Chinese and Vietnamese remedies and traditional Yemen dagger handles. “The stories of the horns being used for aphrodisiacs are exaggerated,” remarked Davis. The horns, made of keratin, are used (in) primarily as anti-inflammatory medicines that (actually) have not been proven to be any more effective than modern pharmaceuticals. At the turn of the century, the decline and near extinction of the hooked-lip herbivores was slowed by the new international laws on the trading of endangered species, relocation of rhinos to fenced sanctuaries, captive breeding programs and a detailed action plan developed by the African Rhino Specialist Group of the IUCN, a world conservation union. By 2001, the population had risen to 3100. But poaching hasn’t stopped. Davis is quick to point out that in South Africa where poachers are not punished severely; one rhino is still killed on average every ten and a half hours. Relocation projects, like the one Davis was involved with in 2009, place tracking radio transponders on rhinos whose horns are often tipped to make them less attractive to the thieves.
“The poachers are heavily armed. These officers are very brave; there are times that it is them or the poacher,” he said, recalling the dedication of the Zimbabwe game wardens and wildlife officers that put their own lives on the line to reduce the carnage. “‘Horns of Hope’ challenges, educates and inspires,” stated Davis on the 2012 youtube.com trailer that describes his documentary as a spiritual journey and a life-changing mission. He said, “God made it all, He loves it all, He owns it all.” Working closely with groups like the Rare Species Conservatory Foundation (www.rarespecies.org) in Loxahatchee, Davis said that the primary goal of Horns of Hope is to “save globally endangered wildlife and highly imperiled ecosystems knowing that when we do, we ensure the welfare of the people who depend on them.” Left): Brahmaputra, Hope’s father, was imported from India. (Below): Davis feeds pygmy hippo, native to West Africa, highly endangered with fewer than 3000.
“God made it all, He loves it all, He owns it all” - Dr. Mark Davis
April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 13
A trustee on the RSCF board, Davis was the lead veterinarian for a January 2004 project that airlifted 18 US captive bred bongo antelope to the Mt. Kenya Wildlife Conservancy in an effort to help repopulate the species in the wild. He was proud to report that the herd’s population currently stands at over 100. Davis also held a board seat on the International Rhino Foundation (www.rhinos-irf.org), a non-profit organization founded in 1993 that is made up of zoos, private foundations, individuals, businesses and government agencies. Their members are currently working to save all five species of rhinos: Black, White, Javan, Sumatran and Indian. Davis not only gives speeches for church groups, conservation meetings and clubs, now he is singing about his beliefs as well. He just finished recording a song written by him titled, “I Made All Things To Praise Me.” He plans to incorporate the upbeat, inspirational music into his faith-based conservation presentations. “Americans make up 4% of the population of the world, but we use 24 percent of its resources. There are seven billion people in this world who are consuming the earths natural resources at a faster rate than the earth can replenish them,” warned Davis. His objective is to educate the public and challenge them to become part of the solution. That is the primary goal of his film, song and his speaking engagements, that can be booked by calling 863-494-5566. He emphasized, “If people want to see the film, I’m available to show it. I will go wherever I am asked.” With two semesters of seminary training, several years of experience as a high school educator and a wealth of personal experiences in Africa, Davis has a unique ability to share his passion. “The global environmental crisis affects everyone. We’ve got to begin fixing this planet before it is too late,” said Davis. In his case, sometimes that means saving just one small rhino at a time. For more information on Davis’ work and the Horns of Hope projects, visit www.HornsofHope.com. ¢ (Top left): Red River Hogs, native to Congo, Africa. (Center) Davis with his family. (L-R) Adam Davis, Veronica Alejo, Davis, granddaughter Regan and Brenda. Davis. (Left) Davis introduces two Aldabra tortoises, native to Seychelles, to Cindy Sebring Adams. “Abdul” (behind Adams) is over 110 years old.
14 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
Locally Owned Restaurant and Bar
Steaks - Seafood - Pasta
We serve Choice Chairman’s Reserve Certified Premium Steaks! Voted #1 Steak for Highlands County!
Our meals are prepared fresh to order and we use only top quality ingredients. For either large or small groups, we invite you to come dine with us today.
Also Open For Lunch - Sunday Sports Packages Reserve our Private Marlin Room for Meetings or Special Parties
Music Every Friday & Saturday 9:30PM - 1:30AM
April 5 & 6 - Fakahatchee April 12 & 13 - Blue Mason Barter April 19 & 20 - Shannon Reed April 26 & 27 - Devil’s Cut
May 3 & 4 - TBD May 10 & 11 - Olden Knew May 17 & 18 - Cory Greenway and Tom Jackson May 24 & 25 - Randy McNeely
Under the Tiki
KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY LIVE MUSIC EVERY SUNDAY
April 7 - Longshot April 14 - Cory Greenway April 21 - Longshot April 28 - Justin Grimes
May 5 - Longshot May 12 - Olden Knew May 19 - Longshot May26 - Cory Greenway
(863) 314-9459 6813 US 27 South, Sebring, FL Hours: Monday - Thursday 11-9pm Friday - Saturday 11-2am Sunday - 12-8pm
April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 15
21st Annual
“Stamp Out Hunger” Postal Food Drive By Pamela Glinski On Saturday, May 11, the National Association of Letter Carriers and other U.S. Postal Service employees across America will join together in an effort to help “Stamp Out Hunger.” This 21st annual event has become our country’s largest one-day food drive, collecting over 1.2 billion pounds of non-perishable food since the first nationwide drive took place on May 15, 1993. According to a recent study by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, close to 50 million people in the United States live with food insecurity, unsure of how or where they will get their next meal. Three million seniors make the difficult decision on whether to purchase medicine or food. NALC president Fredric Rolando explained that letter carriers have the unique ability to see on a daily basis the need that is present in local communities. He stated, “What we see on our routes drives us to do what we can to help millions of Americans get the food their families so desperately need. “Locally, we have always able to stock the shelves of area food banks, churches and other non-profit organizations for the summer months thanks to the generosity of donors,” said Frank Glinski, Sebring’s food drive coordinator. He noted that an average of between 60,000 to 70,000 pounds of non-perishable food is collected every year in Highlands County. If you would like to help, contact your local post office to see if they are participating. If they are, canned meats, soups, juices, rice, cereals and other food items may be dropped off at the post office or placed in a bag by your mailbox early on May 11. A postal employee or a charity volunteer will pick up your donation.
USPS employees at the downtown Sebring post office show off the types of foods collected during the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. (L-R) Al Mann, Ed Townsend, Christina McAnally, Ginger Velez, (food drive poster) Crystal Breedan, Frank Glinski, Kevin Bryant and Jim Peck.
16 | April May 2013 Heartland
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DeSoto County
Watermelon Festival Saturday, May 11th 9 am to 4 pm in Veteranʻs Park
Food and Entertainment Arts and Crafts Watermelon Contests Kids Korner Wacky River Race
Desoto County Watermelon Pageant
Vendors Wanted! Information and Application can be found on website.
For more information call:
www.arcadiamainstreet.com
Princess - May 9 at 7:30 pm Sugar Babe - May 11 at 10 am Crimson Sweet - May 11 at 2 pm
863.494.2020
March 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013 8.9% APR or No Interest for 15 Months No interest if paid in full within 15 months. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment.
It’s Hard To Stop A Trane.
24 Hour Emergency Service See your independent Trane dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers valid on qualifying equipment only. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. The Home Projects Visa card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. Reduced Rate APR: Monthly payments of at least 1.75% of the purchase balance are required during the special terms period. 0%/15 Months: Regular minimum monthly payments are required during the special terms period. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at the APR for Purchases if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period. For newly opened accounts, the regular APR is 27.99%. The APR will vary with the market based on the U.S. Prime Rate. The regular AR is given as of 1/10/2013. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. The regular APR will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.0% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 17
Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce Banquet A capacity crowd enjoyed the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet, which was held on Feb. 28 at the Chateau Élan Hotel and Conference Center. The invocation was offered by Anthony Haney, chamber director and executive director of the Lake Placid Camp and Conference Center. The Pledge of Allegiance was offered by valued chamber member Marti Capodiferro. Eileen May, executive director of the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce shared with the attendees that it has been another good year at the chamber and despite the economic challenges they have enjoyed a solid season. May also shared that there are new events on tap for 2013 which will not only benefit our chamber members, but the area as well. Awards were presented to individuals and organizations for their commitment and dedication to the chamber and community. Special thank you to Bert Harris of Swaine and Harris P.A., for once again being the master of ceremonies for the evening.
Adam Hess (holding plaque) was presented the Harry Seeber Memorial award.
Bill Brantley (right) was presented the Dal Hall Memorial award.
18 | April May 2013 Heartland
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(L-R) Eileen May presents the Industry Appreciation award to MidFlorida Credit Union, accepted by Vanessa Hernandez.
At the end of the evening there was a special presentation for Arlene Tuck, who is retiring from the Town of Lake Placid after 25 yrs. of dedicated service. Present for the dedication was Arlene’s was son Andy, daughter-in-law Sandee and granddaughter Kaylee Tuck with her daughter Alison Tuck Scott. Arlene was presented with gifts from the chamber board of directors, Florida Gov. Scott and Congressman Tom Rooney.
Sue Bastardi (right) was present with the Volunteer of the Year award from Eileen May.
Priscilla Gerard, CPA Allison Davenport, CPA
Individual, Business & Estate Tax Bookkeeping & Accounting Guardianship Accounting New Business Setup
863-385-1441 phone 863-385-3873 fax
Gerard & Associates, CPA’s provides accounting and tax services to meet your personal, business, corporate and estate needs.
www.gerardCPAS.net
219 East Center Avenue - Sebring, FL 33870 April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 19
“Every volunteer brings unique gifts to the children that we serve.” - Joanna Gray, GAL recruiter
(L-R) Lisa Falcon, Pam Kirouac, Judge Peter Estrada and Joanna Gray.
Guardian Ad Litem
A Voice for the Child By Christy Swift Photos by Rafael Pacheco
T
he Latin name literally means “guardian for the suit,” but for over a thousand children in Highlands, Polk and Hardee counties, the term “guardian ad litem” means so much more.
Guardians’ ad litem (GALs) are volunteers from all walks of life who put in typically six to eight hours a month to be the voice of a child in the legal system. They meet with all parties involved in the case; the child, parents, teachers and “pretty much everyone involved in the child’s life,” explained GAL child advocate coordinator Lisa Falcon. These kids are typically victims of abuse, abandonment or neglect. They may be in the foster care system or not. After gathering information by observing the children in their environment at home, at school and elsewhere, GAL puts together a report with the help of a child advocate coordinator and the program’s best interest attorney. The volunteer may also appear in court to present the best interest recommendations reported to the judge. “We try our best to make sure it’s a safe environment to place a child back in and all the child’s needs are being addressed,” said Falcon, adding that reunification with the family is always the goal, when it is in the child’s best interest GAL volunteers also advocate for their assigned children at school and in the community, ensuring that any disabilities are being addressed and that the child’s medical and mental health needs are being met. New legislation now allows some GAL volunteers to take kids to places such as the park or out to lunch. Pam Kirouac has been volunteering with the program for the past three years. Kirouac co-owns Creative Printing in Sebring and works full time, but on top of that she has three Guardian ad litem cases and has represented the best interest of a total of 12 children over the years. She said, “She got involved for personal reasons and also because for me it’s not what you say in life, it’s what you do that really matters. I try to live my life that way.” Kirouac’s first case involved a nine-year-old girl with substance abuse issues in the family. Reunification was not possible and the GAL team advocated for the child to be placed with another relative. “I was very sad for the child,” Kirouac recalled, although she does feel the result was in the best interests of the child. April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 21
parents, understand that the GAL volunteers are a neutral third party and that in most cases reunification is the goal.” How important is a Guardian ad litem to the court’s decisions about these young victims? It is “very valuable” according to Judge Peter Estrada of Highlands County, who handles these cases regularly. “Since every case is different and the judge must make decisions based on facts and the application of the law, how much weight the GAL’s recommendation carries varies,” said Estrada. He explained that the GAL team’s contribution assists the court in understanding the feelings of the children as well as provides a neutral voice.
(L-R) Joanna Gray, Lisa Falcon and Pam Kirouac check over court documents.
The job certainly isn’t always easy. “You are always afraid to make the wrong decision for a child,” Kirouac stated. “You have to keep all your personal feelings out of it. You can’t play favorites with one situation over another. You can’t have any of your past personal experiences in life come into play that can affect your decision.”
need them.
The biggest challenge for Kirouac is the disappointment of watching parents not doing what they need to do in order to bring their children home. “It’s like sometimes the substance is more powerful than parenting,” she remarked.
“GALs aren’t left on their own to make decisions either,” she stressed. They work with a coordinator like herself and the GAL attorney before submitting any recommendations to the court.
The reward comes in knowing that you are giving a legal voice to children in matters where they otherwise would have no representation. There are perks as well, like when a child runs up to you and hugs you. “They have a little more hope in their eyes,” Kirouac smiled. According to GAL recruiter Joanna Gray, in Highlands, Hardee and Polk counties there are Guardians ad litem for approximately 70% of the 1,700 children that 22 | April May 2013 Heartland
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Falcon works with over 20 volunteers in Highlands County and has conducted the 30 hour GAL certification course, which covers the entire child welfare system, how to conduct an interview, how to gather information, documentation, report writing, cultural diversity and more.
For that reason, volunteers aren’t expected to be legal experts or experts at anything at all. “Anyone can do this,” said Gray, who added that GAL volunteers are of all ages and all walks of life. “Every volunteer brings unique gifts to the children that we serve,” she said. “For new volunteers, the biggest questioned posed to the trainers is how to establish and maintain a relationship with parents,” said Falcon. “That is not usually a problem because we explain to the
“It can be frustrating for GALs when the court doesn’t follow their recommendations,” said Falcon. But that’s why she is there to provide support and an ear when volunteers need to talk (Kirouac has called on her many times). Falcon said her volunteers often find adoption cases the most rewarding. When a child does not have parents or reunification with the parents is not possible, finding that child a permanent home feels great. Kirouac said, “Over the past 30 years of my professional life, I have been in a lot of organizations. This has been the most rewarding for me because we all have the same purpose-- we want to make a difference in a child’s life that isn’t able to do it for themselves.” She added that these children, many of whom seem older than their years after what they have been through, are very appreciative. “At the end of the day, you can lay your head down with a smile on your face,” said Kirouac. For more information on the Guardian ad litem program, email Joanna Gray at joanna.gray@gal.fl.gov or call 863-5344081 (Polk), 863-402-6969 (Highlands), or 863-773-2505 (Hardee). ¢
Above) Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Pam Kirouac shows off one of the interview rooms at the Champion for Children Advocacy Center. (Left) Pam Kirouac, Lisa Falcon and Joanna Gray look at tiles made by area children. (Photos left and above by Pam Glinski.)
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Heartland LIVING | 23
Taylor Renee’ Fulford The Heart of a Queen
By Donny Arnold
When Taylor Renee’ Fulford was only 14-yrs.-old she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. This is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. Various factors may contribute to Type 1 diabetes, including genetics and exposure to certain viruses. Despite active research, Type 1 diabetes has no cure, although it can be managed. After being first diagnosed Fulford really struggled with having the disease. She always ate healthy and was very active in sports. Fulford could not understand why someone like her would end up with this disease. One-day Fulford’s mother was watching YouTube videos about the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Type 1 diabetes. She found a video of mothers talking about what they go through with their child’s diabetes and what it is like for mothers to be constantly worried about their child. While watching her mother in tears, Fulford felt selfish because she never really thought about how it affected her mother. “After watching this video, it inspired me. So I used this opportunity that God gave me to make a difference in the lives of others like myself. I went online to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation website to look for ways to raise funds,” said Fulford. When she started reading about Walk to Cure Diabetes, she knew immediately this is what she wanted to start in Okeechobee. Forming a committee, which included her family, Teresa Chandler from the B.R.A.T. club, Donny Arnold, Sheriff Paul May, Melissa Morgan and many other volunteers, Fulford started Okeechobee’s first Walk to Cure Diabetes. There were many sponsors and people who donate their time and money. Fulford and her family even stood outside the local Publix Supermarket collecting donations to help raise money to put towards Walk to Cure Diabetes. With the help of the small tight-knit community of Okeechobee, they ended up raising over $8,000 dollars to donate to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. At the inaugural 5K-walk event they also had exercising, healthy snacks, bounce house and pony rides. It was an all-around successful day and they look forward to doing it every Nov., which is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Continuing her effort, Fulford, the former 2012 Miss Okeechobee County Teen USA and current Miss Treasure Coast USA, is starting a pageant to be held in April, called Crowns for the Cure. All of the proceeds are also going to the JDRF in hopes to find a cure and make a difference in the lives of others.
Photo by Benizo.com
Fulford states, “I am blessed to not only h ave s u p p or t from my family, but from my whole community. Just to know that I helped make a difference in the lives of others who go through the same thing I do every day, gives me a sense of hope that anything is possible. It made me realize that God gave me this disease to inspire others and that is exactly what I plan to continue to do.” ¢
1
2
3
4 1. Taylor with her grandfather, Lloyd DeVoss, raising money outside of Publix 2. Fulford with Donny Arnold at the 5K-walk event. 3. Christina Fulford proudly join her daughter at the 5K-walk event. 5. PageantReady owner Jules Meyers (center) with her dream time of Miss Florida and Teen USA girls show their support.
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Heartland LIVING | 25
The
Story of
Jesus By R.T. Byrum Photos by Power and Light Productions
M
ore than two-thousand years ago, Jesus came into the world through the humblest of events: born in a stable and laid in a manger. Not much is known of his early years until at age 12 when he appeared before the teachers in the temple, amazing them with his understanding and his answers to their questions. His ministry began in earnest years later and grew rapidly until his death and resurrection. „
April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 27
Church building located on highway 17 between Wauchula and Bowling Green. Graham began visiting other plays about the life of Jesus and said, “I was disturbed at the sight of people sleeping through performances. It was then that I decided The Story of Jesus must not hide the sometimes disturbing scenes that the Savior endured.” And so he began writing a scripturally based play that portrayed Christ’s ministry, persecution, crucifixion and resurrection in ways that even 25-years later still draws the audience into the drama and moves them in an unforgettable way. It would not stretch the point to say that The Story of Jesus has helped put Wauchula on the map as well as generating income for restaurants, hotel and businesses alike. Each year the play draws volunteers from 35 churches, and audiences from as far away as Miami, Mexico and even Europe.
(Pictured above): Props from the production, a wagon and boat. (Photos by R.T. Byrum)
Mike Graham, pastor of Real Life Church in Wauchula, Fla., also began his extraordinary ministry in a very small way. As a youth pastor, he produced a skit using less than a dozen young people and presented it before their church. Others who saw it asked to have it played before their congregations. From there, the group was moved to polish and expand the event until they found themselves performing before 3,000 teens in a large Fla., venue.
Under his direction, Power and Light Productions, Inc. was established. P&L is a non-profit, non-denominational organization headquartered in the Real Life
To date, attendance is approaching 400,000 people who have made their way to the Cattleman’s Arena on Altman road to witness the performance of up to 250 volunteer cast members on a stage nearly the length of a football field. Along with more than 100 animals, there are carts, wagons, chariots, magnificent horses and even
a storm-tossed boat that appear in the two and one-half hour production. There are lit platforms at each end of the arena where several shifts of signers communicate the words for the hard of hearing. There are also reserved places for the handicapped. It should be noted that the arena’s metal seats can be uncomfortable after a while. Bleacher cushions are a must, whether brought by the attendee or rented at the show. Although more graphically and realistically presented than many similar plays, the performance is appropriate for adults and older youth. Families are cautioned, however, that younger children may be affected by the lighting and special effects used to create the drama and emotion of the Biblical account. Audiences are always awed and inspired by the sight of angels floating high in the air across the stage and the closing scenes of the resurrection are truly breathtaking and must be seen to be believed. Between play dates, the massive sets, props and costumes have to be removed and stored in a large warehouse some distance from the arena. There are thousands of items, many so large they must be moved by trucks, cranes and forklifts. For many who travel from near and far to see the drama of Christ’s life and death, the pre and post production set up and teardown is taken for granted. To witness the small army of volunteers at work assembling the buildings and props for the first act, then rearranging the stage for the crucifixion and the garden tomb scenes is a pageant in itself. Following the final performance, ten shows later, everything must be disassembled, loaded on trucks and returned to storage. The area floor must be leveled, sound and lighting equipment removed and the end curtains taken down until the next season. Even with unpaid volunteer help, the rental of facilities, utilities, replacement and repair of equipment and hiring of animals and trainers ends up costing in the hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. Although ticket sales and do-
28 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
nations miraculously cover most of the cost, very little is ever left over when the bills are paid. A pool that is part of the set has been used to baptize those in attendance who request it. White robes are furnished as well as towels and changing rooms. Pastor Graham, while still costumed in his role as the risen Christ, has offered the invitation and conducted the baptism personally. Family and friends of the newly baptized Christian are able to take photos and record videos of that memorable event. First performed in 2012, Power and Light Productions added The Story of Noah, which will alternate each year with The Story of Jesus. The production company would also like to add The Story of Moses to their repertoire if conditions permit. This year’s program promises several new surprises including a pre-show called Pictures of Freedom. It is a celebration of America and a tribute to our active military personnel and veterans that will educate and stir up adults and children alike. In addition, Graham’s two professional musician sons have created original scores designed exclusively for the Jesus story production. As a result, Graham said they will be able to offer CD’s and DVD’s that will be recorded live during the play dates. Graham noted that many of the actors and stage hands have labored for years on the Jesus Story and now on the Noah Story. There is always a need for new volunteers to fill in for those who are ready to step aside. Interested parties may call the office for details on how to become a part of this life-changing production. Tickets are on sale now for the performances that run Mar. 22-23, 29-30; Apr. 5-6, 12-13, and 19-20. Information on show times, ticket sales, directions to the arena and a picture gallery of both The Story of Jesus and The Story of Noah can be found on line at www.storyofjesus. com. You may also call the office at (863) 375-4031. ¢ All photo are actual scenes from The Story of Jesus and provided by Power and Light Productions. April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 29
Flashlight Egg Hunt Prizes are piling up for anyone entering the Humane Society’s 3rd annual Flashlight Egg Hunt on April 27 at the Humane Society near the Sebring Airport. Gate opens at 3:30 pm and contests begins at 4 pm. 10,000 black eggs are hidden along trails in the woods. At dark, equipped only with a flashlight, participants will walk the trails in search of hidden eggs. Inside the eggs are coupons that are worth prizes. Dr. Daniel Parnassa has donated $2500. and Bob Rhodes donated $1,000 for the top “Cash Egg” prizes. There will be over $4,500 is CASH prizes and over $30,000 in other prizes from area businesses. Also there will be “Outrageous Egg” contests, worth $200 each to the winners. Great food will be available, including Dairy Queen Ice Cream, sponsored by (the original) Dairy Queen. Advanced tickets are $15. Tickets at the gate, if available, will be $20, but only a limited number of tickets will be sold. For tickets, more information or if you would like to sponsor an egg call Judy Spiegel at 863214-6508 or Cindy Dutton ar 863,-381-9113. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Highlands County, a No-kill shelter that operates 100% on your donations.
Commercial and Residential
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Highland’s Art League
“The Art in Grief”Workshop Series Photos by Jessica Adams
H
ighland’s Art League’s Visual Arts Center is the setting in which Cornerstone Hospice, a not-for-profit, community-based healthcare organization, chose to hold their “The Art in Grief” workshop series. This one of a kind program is intended for individuals who have experienced personal grief and would like to express their emotions through art. It is offered free to the public through corporate sponsorship and volunteers. The workshop is taught by artist Linda Kegley and Barbara Wade. The program is headed by grief counselor Don Hires, who has his own experiences with loss. On Mar. 21, “The Color of Grief,” the first of three sessions was held. The individuals in this session used water colors to express their feelings. On Mar. 28, the second session called “Unmasking Your Grief” focused on creating a mask using words, pictures and colors to outwardly express their grief. The third and final session, “Giving Words To Our Grief”, will be held on April 2. Participants will work on putting their feelings onto paper through journaling. This will help them to privately express their feeling and lead to release and forgiveness. These workshops are intended to be a teaching tool to aide in the mourning of a loved one through self-expression.
(L-R) Susan James, Linda Kegley, Kathleen Border, Barbara Wade & Don Hires.
Grace Canada of Sebring, “I really enjoyed the whole experience. I liked creating something, for grief counseling, rather than going to a lecture.” (Photo by Linda Kegley.)
(L-R) Jayna Baker and Brenda Siegle.
Full Service Bike Shop We have a Bike for Everybody!
863-471-2453 2812 Kenilworth Blvd. Sebring, Florida 33870 Downtown Sebring
Don Hires conducts the workshop.
www.legacybicycle.com April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 31
Sebring International Raceway Celebrating the 61st Annual
By Jessica Adams
32 | April–May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
s I sit in the boardroom of the administration building at the Sebring International Raceway, I am in awe of the view of the quiet track that was bustling with race cars and race fans just over a week ago. The view is breathtaking and I can really see what a state of the art facility that has been created in Sebring. In 1999, Don Panos, creator of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), bought the Sebring International Raceway (SIR) and to date has spent approximately $17 million to improve this facility. New additions include a new pit structure, administration building, hotel and maintenance facility. It is one of the oldest operating race tracks in the United States and this year celebrated the 61st Annual Mobile 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring Fueled by Fresh From Florida, the opening race of the 2013 American Le Mans Series 2013 season. The winner of this years event was Audi Sport and the No. 1 Audi R18 e-tran quattro driven by Marcel Fassler, Benoit Treluyer and Oliver Jarvis. This car was the first hybrid car to win at the SIR and in the ALMS presented by Tequila Patron. The No. 2 car also from Audi Sport, finished in a close second. On Sept. 1, 2012, the merger of the American Le Mans Series and the Grand-Am series was announced. The series will now be known as the United SportsCar Racing and will debut in 2014 at the Rolex 24 in Daytona. The second race of the year will continue to be the 12 hours of Sebring. As part of the merger, the holding company for Sebring International Raceway and Chateau Elan Hotel and Conference Center will now be Grand American Holdings, LLC, which is owned by NASCAR Holding. Panos now sits on the board of the newly organized United SportsCar Racing series. I was told that he was a great owner and the hope is that he stays involved with the SIR. I spoke with Tres Stephenson, Sebring native and the president and general manager of SIR. Attending the race since he was a small child, Stephenson graduated from Sebring High School and then obtained a finance degree from the University of Florida, during which time he volunteered at the track to earn a ticket to the races just as many locals still do today. Upon completion of his college, he moved back to his hometown where he began his career at the SIR as an airport assistant manager. The Airport Authority was still running the track. He has now been with the track for 28-years and I can see the passions he still carries for the raceway. Stephenson is very excited about the merger and feels it will bring opportunities to the track. The hope is eventually one or two of NACSAR’s events could be run at the SIR. With this being the first year since the announcement of the merger, the track noticed an influx of first-time ticket buyers, possibly from the Grand-Am series who are interested in the ALMS series racing style. Stephenson feels this will grow the fan base and bring new fans to the SIR in years to come. April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 33
Some people are nervous that NASCAR is going to come in and make big changes and Stephenson doesn’t feel that is the case. He has had a great experience with his discussions with many levels of management and he feels they do it right at NASCAR. There will be natural changes due to the merger but NASCAR loves the SIR and are very excited to have it on their schedule as one of the 10 to 12 best tracks in the United States. I am excited to see the United SportsCar Racing’s debut at the 62nd Annual Twelve Hours of Sebring. ¢ Photos for this story provided by Sebring International Raceway and Jessica Adams
(Left) The winner of this years event was Audi Sport and the No. 1 Audi R18 e-tran quattro driven by Marcel Fassler, Benoit Treluyer and Oliver Jarvis.
(Above) Audi team in their pit area.
(Above) Corvette racing team working at the pit stop. (Right) Race winners Audi Sport e-tron quattro at the winner’s circle with Miss 12 Hours of Sebring Ricki Albritton.
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Lotus Rebellion team in their pit area.
(Above) Tequila Patron team waiting in their pit area. (Right) 61st Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring fueled by Fresh from Florida.
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Heartland LIVING Wedding Styles April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 39
Heartland Wedding Style
H
Starts with Perfect Planning!
eartland Wedding Style is our gift to you, thanks to the support of local advertisers, photographers, and wedding vendors. Together, we hope you enjoy the beauty, expert advice, latest trends, and fabulous ideas in this issue—all designed to inspire and infuse you with the passion for “I do.” No matter where you are in the wedding planning process - shopping for a gown, deciding on a photographer or considering flower choices - we thought you could use a cheat sheet. Here are our most helpful tools, priceless pieces of advice and inspirational ideas in the order you’ll need them on your way to the aisle. Our wedding section presents you with the top vendors in the Heartland area for all your needs for your special day. They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but we disagree; we think it’s your wedding vendors. Enjoy the Wedding Style!
An Elegant setting for a Memorable Wedding. Platinum Wedding Pac kage
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Complimentary Champagne & Stra Hotel Suite wberries in Complimentary W hite Chair Covers & Suite Vo Butler Passed Hor s D' Oeuvres & Rece tive Candles pt ion Display Champagne To Plated Dinner ~ in ast & 3 Hours Open Bar cludes Appetizers or $76.00 Per Person Soup & Salad
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40 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING Wedding Styles
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Gini Beth and her staff will help plan and coordinate the details of your wedding – so you can sit back and relax. Think of your personal wedding consultant as your best friend!
All you need is Love - We'll provide the Rest!
We are here to make your dreams come true. From floral arrangements to the honeymoon and everything in between, Gini Beth will make sure your most special day is picture perfect!
It's Your Day.
Gini Beth will work with you and your husband to be to create a customized dream wedding package for you. This should – and will be – one of the happiest days of your life!
The first time we meet, it's Our Treat.
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Voted the #1 event planner in Highlands County.
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LIVING Wedding Styles
| 41
10 Steps to Planning Your Wedding 1. Building a Budget
This should be done before anything else! It’s a tough conversation but it’s the most important. Sit down and figure out who is contributing and what will be your total budget.
2.
Setting a Date
Then the fun begins, setting a date! Think of the time of the year that you prefer in regard to the weather, work schedule and holiday. Now choose two to three dates in case your venue isn’t available on your preferred date.
Hobby Hi� Fl�ist Designing Dream Weddings Since 1950
W
hether you are in need of casual, elegance or a business professional setting, the Island View at Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club offers a picturesque view of the lake, a professional staff and a variety of amenities to fulfill all of your banquet needs. With seating space from 30 - 300, our Chef and Culinary expert has created customized menus that provide you with options for every budget.
To Book Your Upcoming Event, Call Our Banquet Specialist today 863-385-4830, Ext 4. 5223 Sun 'n Lake Blvd. www.sunlakegolfclub.com Sebring, FL 33872 www.islandviewrestaurant.com 42 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING Wedding Styles
863-385-8049 hobbyhillflorist.com
April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING Wedding Styles | 43
MOLLY’S TREATS BAKERY & ICE CREAM SHOPPE
3.
Build Your Guest List
4.
Choose A Wedding Style
Remember, the more people you invite, the more money you spend. Know your estimated maximum guest count and keep in mind the count usually goes down closer to wedding day.
Vintage, country, modern or funky - it’s all up to you! Setting a style will help choosing a venue, décor and details.
5.
Cakes and Cupcakes for any special event.
Pick A Venue
If you have a venue or two in mind you should first contact them with your wedding dates to check availability. Then schedule a time to take a tour of all the possibilities and envision you wedding. Book your venue and sign a contract.
Weddings Anniversaries Birthdays/Quinceanera Bridal/Baby Showers Corporate Events Monday - Friday 11am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 2 pm | Closed Sunday
863-465-2033
210 N. Main Avenue - Lake Placid
863-382-0191
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Taylor Rental Center takes the worries out of the biggest day of your life!
6.
Hire a Wedding Planner
7.
Vendors
There are a lot of things that will happen all at once. A wedding planner will be able to give excellent advice and recommendations. This will save you a lot of time and frustration.
Contact vendors to find out if they’re available on your date and schedule a consultation. This includes everything from flowers, cake, caterer, photographer and music. To add elegance and ambiance, we have a garden fountain, chocolate fountain, champagne fountains and arches. We also have tents, tables, chairs, china, flatware, glassware and linens. Those are just a few of the many items that Taylor Rental can provide to complete your special day! We are proud to carry the finest, most comprehensive, inventories in both Highlands and Okeechobee counties. Taylor Rental Center is truly your one stop party source! Delivery is also available, so no need to worry about picking your items up or bringing them back.
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44 | April May 2013 Heartland
863-467-2239
523 N. Highway 98 Okeechobee, Florida www.taylorrentalokeechobee.com LIVING Wedding Styles
8.
Wedding Dress
9.
Wedding Party Attire
The most memorable and exciting part is the dress! Talk about what style you want before you go and do your research. Then go shopping!
Once you’ve chosen the dress, now it’s time to choose the wedding parties attire. Refer back to our wedding style and determine what color, style and fit will look best for the big day.
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isit The Hotel Jacaranda and experience a taste of history.
Built in Avon Park in the 1920s, The Hotel Jacaranda has played host to baseball legends and Hollwood stars.
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Whether you are planning a large family reunion or an intimate birthday party, a working business meeting or an elegant wedding, the Hotel Jacaranda makes the perfect setting.
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BRIDE SPECIAL
Everything you need for beautiful skin!
Design and Detail
Time to finalize the wedding day look. Design your invitations, choose centerpieces and finalize all the details that reflect you and your spouses personalities. Take a look at the bits and pieces of your story and see how they will translate into details. Most of all, enjoy this once in a lifetime experience!
What a Year This Was!
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After all the preparations, it’s time for the big day! Look Your Best! Purchase as a Preferred Customer and receive a Free Multi Function Eye Cream. Valued at $59.00! Restrictions may apply.
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Heartland LIVING Wedding Styles | 45
Wedding Day Survival Kits A
wedding survival kit is a small kit that your maid-of-honor or someone in the bridal party should bring along to the wedding that will have everything anyone might need in case of a last minute wedding emergency.
For the Bride:
Makeup kit with makeup that matches the bride’s. Hand Mirror Brush, Pick or Comb Hair Spray Bobby Pins (to help secure veil) Curling Iron or Electric Curlers Toothpaste and Small Toothbrush Clear band aids or blister blocks for foot blisters from shoes. White Slippers or Flats
Miss Cindy’s Gardens Beautiful Garden & Lake Setting for Your Special Events
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46 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING Wedding Styles
For The Bridesmaids:
Even the Bride in case she happens to need it. Dress Shields | Tampons/Kotex | Deodorant Extra Nylons | Safety Pins Non-slip buttons for the bottoms of wedding shoes (In case they are too slippery)
Slippers or Flats
(There is a good chance feet will be hurting before the day is over.)
Nail Glue | Nail Polish Remover | Nail Tips | Clean Nail Polish Nail File | Hand Lotion | Spare Earring Backs
If a bride’s or bridesmaids’ nails break at any time and you do not have a matching tip or color, simply remove the polish from the rest of her nails, add a clear tip and polish with clear polish.
For the Groom or Groomsmen Extra Pair of Black Men’s Socks Extra Handkerchief Extra Pair of Cufflinks and Extra Tie Clip
Even if the tie clip or cufflinks don’t match the other groomsmen, it is better than nothing.
For Everyone or Anything Else Static Guard - Tide or Stain Remover Pen White Chalk
(For any stain on wedding gown, shoes or men’s white shirts.)
Needle/Thread | Scissors | Safety Pins | Straight Pins Large Tape or Lint Remove| Wet Hand Wipes | Super Glue Masking Tape (For decorations or flowers in church) Scotch Tape (For attaching cards to gifts.) A Pen (For signing a gift card) Double Sided Tape (For a fallen hem) Hand Held Steamer (For unsightly wrinkles) Floral Wire (for last minute bouquet or boutonniere repairs) Dental Floss | Aspirin | Tums/Antacids | Alka-Seltzer Smelling Salts Power Bar or Snack (For queasy or upset stomach) Breath Mints | Kleenex | Visine As long as you have this kit at the wedding, nothing should come up that you will not be able to handle with ease, so you can continue enjoying your perfect day.
Also...
Program cell phone numbers in cell phones of everyone in the bridal party, as well as bride’s and groom’s parents, limo driver, photographer, video man, the church and the reception hall in case of any delays or problems. Make sure there is enough cash to take care of little tips or last minute items. Chances are the bride will not have money on her. TravisBrandonPhotography@gmail.com
It is important to make sure that more than one person knows about this kit and where it will be stored in case any minor emergency comes up. ¢
Find Travis Photography on Facebook
TravisBrandonPhotography.com April May 2013
Heartland LIVING Wedding Styles | 47
Heartland Heroes ARCADIA YOUTH RODEO In today’s society there are many activities that children can be involved in. There are the typical clubs during and after school such as drama, chorus and FFA. You also have activities after school that includes art and various sports which are offered. Then you have activities that take you back in time when many people forget about and one of those is the Arcadia Youth Rodeo. In many cities you don’t hear about such sports because there isn’t room for it. In Arcadia Fla., youth rodeo is flourishing year by year. The Arcadia Youth Rodeo started in 2008 after many children were wanting to do what many of the adults were doing in the state of Florida and across the country. Jim Fussell, now secretary of the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo Association, decided it was time to start a youth division after many children continued to show interest in the sport. Just to show how much interest was in this division, “the first year there were 75 children in the program which ranges from ages four to eighteen” explained Mrs. Anne-Marie Driggers. Now after six years, the youth rodeo has grown to 150 children. The youth rodeo isn’t contained to just Arcadia, Fla., explained Driggers, and
there are children from all over Central Florida that compete in Arcadia. To prove how big youth rodeo has become, even when parents come to Florida for vacation they call and enter their children into open events while they are visiting. “There have been children from Canada and Mexico that have competed while in Arcadia,” Driggers explained. Parents call year round to register their children and inquire about when the season is going to start. The season runs from Sept. to April every year. The season has six rodeos for the children to compete, in order to qualify for the end of the year rodeo finals. The top ten finalists then compete for the championship. This ensures that children stay involved so that they can compete for the championship instead of just competing in one or two per season. The children are then awarded buckles as their prize that they can show to family and friends for all of their hard work and dedication to youth rodeo. Now you are probably thinking that these events are expensive for the children and families to be involved in. This is the farthest from the truth. The parents pay an entry fee of $25 for each event their children competes in. Of this $10 goes back into a prize jackpot for the children
Calf rider Wyatt Duyn waves to the crowd.
which helps them with purchasing the equipment they need to compete. Because the Arcadia Rodeo owns the arena that is used, the youth rodeo doesn’t have a lot of overhead expenses. The Arcadia Youth Rodeo is also able to get sponsors for their eleven teams, saddles and buckles as well. The rodeo also has about thirty volunteers who help out with the events, stock contractors, gates and running the chutes. This is a great way for the community and parents to give back to the children. The Arcadia Youth Rodeo has a board of directors that consist of 12 to 15 members and most of them have children that are involved in the rodeo as well. These members ensure that there is a schedule of events for the children as well as everything else that they may need to learn and compete at a higher level. Many of the children that age competing in the youth rodeo go on to compete in
Bronc rider Justin Mills shown in action during his exciting ride.
48 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
By Jon Armentrout
the national divisions of the rodeo and stay involved with the youth rodeo as well. You can find out more about the event at www.arcadiayouthrodeo.com ¢
Sheep rider Brody Clemons hangs on.
H
Triple
Barrel racer Nikki Postma shows good form during the competition.
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Lake Placid Feed & Western Wear Gator Feed Co., Inc. 417 US Hwy 27 South 1205 Hwy 98 North Lake Placid, Florida 33852 Okeechobee, Florida 34972 April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 49
2
Woman Woman
By Amanda Armentrout
Kristin Olivenbaum
2012 Paramedic of the Year for Polk County Fire Rescue
When Kristin Olivenbaum made the choice to become an
EMT/Paramedic, little did she know how many lives she could touch, change and save. She knew she always wanted to do something in the medical field, but the choice in profession soon became clear to her. “My mother fell ill one night and the paramedics took excellent care of her,” Olivenbaum recalls. “I knew right then I wanted to wear those shoes one day.” When asked about any particular incidents that have stood out, there are two (of many) that she often thinks of. “An elderly man suffered a horrific crash and I was the last person he spoke to. He squeezed my hand, looked at me with his big blue eyes and said, ‘Please help me’. I assured him we would take care of him and he died minutes later. I felt like his failure instead of the person who was supposed to save his life. It ate at me for weeks. I still remember his words to this day.” While many of the scenes that Olivenbaum is on have their place in her mind, few hit closer to home than the other incident that she often thinks of. “It happened at my daughter’s fifth birthday party. My grandfather came to the festivities and was sitting in a chair near me when he went into cardiac arrest. My Kristin Olivenbaum with husband, Mark (who daughter is Annabelle. is a firefighter/paramedic), was there as well and helped me lower him to the ground. We started CPR and gave him mouth to mouth. The fire department arrived approximately ten minutes later and had an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). They shocked him one time and attempted to resume CPR. My grandfather started to stir and sat up! That’s all it took, CPR and an AED.
50 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
He spent three days in the hospital, received a defibrillator and walked out the doors by himself. That day reminded me I chose the right career path.” Aside from the obvious reward of saving her grandfather’s life, Olivenbaum was also recognized from Citizens CPR for her swift actions. Although Kristin knows her actions can change lives, she still remains completely humble. At only 28 years old, she won Paramedic of the Year for Polk County Fire Rescue for 2012. She continues to focus on her many blessings and recently made the decision to work part-time for PCFR. She is now pursuing a nursing career and working to fulfill new goals. “My dream is to be a flight nurse or a pediatric ICU transport nurse for Arnold Palmer.” Olivenbaum shares.
Kirstin and her husband, firefighter/paramedic Mark Olivenbaum.
I asked what she has taken from her career choices, she was very clear. “Being an EMT/Paramedic has led me to meet many interesting people and encounter strange and sometimes heartbreaking situations.” Olivenbaum strongly continues, “But most importantly, it reminds me that life is precious. Life is short. Sometimes life isn’t fair. Hug and kiss your loved ones every day.” ¢
MEDICAL SUPPLY SUPERSTORE
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863-385-0123
215 US Hwy 27 S - Sebring, FL 33870 (Located in the Lakeview Plaza)
April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 51
O
keechobee Main Street [OKMS], through the efforts of the their arts and culture program have been a force in expanding the arts in Okeechobee, Fla. It began with a Lake Placid Mural Society presentation in Deland, Fla., which set in motion a process that began to change the look of Okeechobee and also enhanced the community as a whole through the arts.
ShowcasingT he Arts
By Cindy Sebring Adams
In 2004, the newly state-certified OKMS began using tools available to develop and grow the organization. Attending their first state main street conference proved to be a pivotal point in developing OKMS’s arts and culture program. Two members in attendance were OKMS President Maureen Burroughs and OKMS Arts and Culture Director Bridgette Waldau. Both walked away with a commitment to revive the arts in their community. Burroughs states, “At our first Florida State Main Street conference in 2004 we were inspired by a workshop given by the Lake Placid Mural Society. We went to Lake Placid, met with them and we felt our community could have the same opportunity to commemorate our history for all to see.” OKMS Arts and Culture Committee was soon formed and ideas began to flourish. Okeechobee is rich in history, so it was decided to present the history with pictorial murals around the city. Waldau states, “Okeechobee does not have an art museum so we decided to make the community landscape itself a museum of murals. It is a two-fold program - showcasing history, while at the same time enriching the community with the arts.” OKMS worked with the City of Okeechobee to adopt a mural guideline ordinance, which protects the integrity of the mural program. The ordinance assures that the mural’s subject matter will be about the history or recreational activities of Okeechobee and that qualified artists will be designing and painting the murals. The arts and culture committee acted quickly and started their first mural project in 2006. Waldau designed the mural depicting the Williams’ family cattle drive of 1946. Haynes and Susan Williams sponsored the mural. This first mural became a community project, which included local students. A contest was held and 10 students were chosen to participate, all under the direction of Waldau and other local adult artists, who all volunteered. Portraits the students who participated are incorporated in the mural, which adds a special touch.
52 | April May 2013 Heartland
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(Shown above top to bottom) Detail sections of murals in Okeechobee: Okeechobee Hardware Store-1915, (east section); Okeechobee Hardware Store-1915, (west section); Bank of Okeechobee-Looking Back Through the Windows of Time; Okeechobee Telephone Company and Railroad Arrives-1915. (Below) OKMS first mural Williams Family Cattle Drive-1937.
The program continued and four other murals have been created. They are the Railroad Arrives-1915 by artist Kathy Scott, sponsored by the Okeechobee Historical Society; Okeechobee Telephone Company by artist Matt Budjinski, sponsored by OKMS; Bank of OkeechobeeLooking Back Through the Windows of Time by artist Joseph Steiert, sponsored by Gil and Marie Culbreth; and Okeechobee Hardware Store-1915 by artist Joseph Steiert, sponsored by the Wherrell family and George and Mary Beth Cooper. Okeechobee Main Street is now working on their sixth mural project. The arts and culture committee did not stop at the mural program. Their inaugural Top of the Lake Art Fest was held in 2007. This art fest began as a small juried art show, which has continued to grow. This annual event not only showcases visiting fine artists but also focuses on showing the art of local and student artists. The eighth annual Top of the Lake Art Fest will be held on Feb. 8 & 9, 2014 in Flagler Park. OKMS also started Community Partners for Health through the Arts, a Shands Arts in Medicine program, with the vision to integrate the arts into the community in a manner that improves physical health and mental well-being. Waldau states, “It has been very encouraging and rewarding to see the growth of the arts here in Okeechobee. The community has been supportive and the appreciation is felt.” Waldau has seen the arts grow in the area, including the opening of three new art studios. She says, “The arts enriches and vitalizes cities as well as enhance education. I see so much more on the horizon and look forward to continue working with so many talented and inspiration people.” Okeechobee Main Street invites visitors to come see the murals. OKMS is located on 55 South Parrott Ave. in Okeechobee. For more information call 863-357-6246. ¢
A Charming Women’s Boutique Specializing in Contemporary Clothing and Accessories
863-465-2120
216 N. Main Avenue Lake Placid, Florida 33852
“Family Owned and Operated” Frank DeCarlo, Owner
(863) 763-3221 Fax (863) 467-8485
Over 20 Years’ Experience Specializing in PVC Well Drilling Commercial, Residential, Industrial and Agricultural Service, Installation and Repairs | Solar Pumping Packages Windmills | Water Testing | Water Treatment | Irrigation | Pumps | Tanks
Free Estimates
Email adswells@gmail.com Licensed & Insured
402 S.W, 2nd Street Okeechobee, Florida 34973
Antiques - Pottery - Glass Music and Sports Memorabilia Bottle Cap Art - Florida Art - Candles Jewelry and Accessories Antique Watches Jams - Syrups - BBQ Sauce Amish Handmade Baskets
A Shop For All Reasons &All Seasons
863-453-0003 Open Monday thru Friday
www.daisygirlshop.cpm
22 East Main Street - Avon Park
Paul’s Plantscapes Indoor Plant Leasing Residential & Commercial and Special Events
Serving Highlands, Hardee, Desoto and Southern Polk Counties for 20 Years Licensed and Insured
863-453-0314 863-873-4580
2600 West Rochester Road Avon Park, FL 33825 April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 53
Healthy Heartland By Nicole La Placa
Developing Healthy Habits Spring is here and the holidays are a distant memory. While many of us began this new year with resolutions to lose weight, eat healthier and exercise more, the majority of those resolutions have been forgotten. Resolutions such as weight loss, exercising more and eating less are usually made during the feeding frenzy of holiday parties. It is common for people to think, “I’ll just ‘give up’ on healthy eating because it’s the holidays and I will start fresh in the new year”. Sadly, by ‘giving up’ on healthy eating and exercise during the time of year when we are consuming double the calories, we are starting each New Year with an additional 10-15 pounds. Once the resolutions fall by the way side, the weight is still heavy on our bodies. Maintaining health and wellness goals can be accomplished by making healthy food choices and following an exercise program. Lose the diet mentality and adopt a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and proper nutrition. Follow these tips which are designed to help you reach and maintain your goals of health and wellness
Set Goals
Determine how much weight or body fat you would like to lose and set a date to accomplish this goal by. Set attainable goals and allow yourself a reasonable amount of time to reach them.
Call a Friend
The majority of resolutions made without a plan or support group result in failure. Successful people have support from their friends, family and colleagues. We all need positive reinforcement. It is imperative for accountability and personal growth.
Lead by Example
Reward Yourself
When you have reached your goal, treat yourself to something fun like a massage, facial, movie, or a new outfit. Celebrate your success!
Sometimes receiving the support of family and spouses can present the biggest challenge. Explain to them your reasons for adopting a healthy lifestyle and ask that they support you on this new journey. Focus on your goals and forge your own path. Chances are when you start shopping, cooking and eating healthier foods, they will too.
Hire a personal trainer or food coach.
A personal trainer and food coach work directly with their clients to customize programs based on their clients’ individual needs. These programs provide support through exercise programs, meal planning and nutrition counseling. ¢ 54 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
VITAMINS • HEALTH FOOD • BEAUTY
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301 US 27 - Sebring, FL 33870
Over 70 Bulk Foods Mon - Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5
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www.foodforthoughthealth.com
GREAT SMILES START HERE! DAVID E. WILLEY, DMD, PL Aesthetic & Comprehensive General Dentistry
863.658.3897
Call today for a Free Smile Make-over Consu.ltation!
4741 Lakeview Drive - Sebring, FL 33870 | www.davidewilleydmd.com April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 55
Fishing in the
Heartland
By Dan Echols
Piscatorial Pitbulls of the Heartland
A
sk just about anyone that loves to fish, how they got started fishing and most if not all of them will say that their dad or their grandpa first took them when they were very small to a small local pond or a dock on a lake in a park somewhere. They’ll most likely tell you that they were rigged up with some kind of ultralight gear, or maybe even a cane pole equipped with nothing more than a small hook, a little weight and of course the bobber. Their bait, they’ll say, was bread, worms or possibly crickets. Ask them what they were fishing for and they’ll tell you “Bluegills”. Bluegills (Scientific name: Lepomis macrochirus) can be found in lakes, streams, rivers, swamps and private ponds. They are one of the feistiest little fish in fresh water and are distributed throughout North America. And believe it when I tell you that the Heartland has some of the biggest along with some of the best bluegill fishing found anywhere on the planet. Like most fish (especially here in the south), bluegill are also known by many other names. They include bream, copper-
Louie shown with a bluegill he caught.
nosed bream, copperbelly, copperhead, sunperch, blue sunfish, redbreasted sunfish, yellow belly, bluemouth sunfish, baldface, plumb, granny and sun granny. Their spawning season is usually from April into Sept. with their nests usually being found on shallow sand and gravel bars. There’s just some kind of magic associated with watching that bobber go under. It starts with our very first fishing trip and it never seems to leave us. If you’ve got a son, a daughter, grandson or granddaughter, get them out there on the water in the Heartland. Get them hooked on fishing. Start them out on catching bluegill; you just never know where it will lead. Look at Louie. By the way, you never know for sure what’s pulling that bobber under. Louie caught a 14 pound largemouth while fishing for bluegill when he was seven. But that’s another story. ¢
To see many more of Louie’s catches, “like” his facebook page @ http://www.facebook.com/ FishingTheHighlands.
56 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
F
lorida uel
Of Hardee County, Inc.
Your Only Hometown Fuel Company
863-773-9466 We are the only company in town with non-ethanol fuel.
156 Will Duke Road Wauchula, FL 33873 Monica Reas Owner
Florida Fuel Staff Serving the Heartland for 22 years!
Guns & Ammo
Large Section of New & Used Firearms
All Guns Below MSRP
Concealed Weapons Classes Monthly Show them you can protect you family Now carrying black powder & reload supplies See our Expanded inventory
Stun Gun - Pepper Spray Personal Protection Tasers
On February 23, over 100 people visited Boom Boom's Guns & Ammo to celebrate our country and our constitution. Throughout the nation, thirty-five states participated with rallies bringing out over fifty thousand Americans. Boom Boom's Guns & Ammo was one of seven locations in Florida. The Highlands County Tea Party was on-site with signs and American flags. In addition to supporting our Second Amendment rights, a bake sale was held as well as raffles for ammunition. All proceeds benefited the Highlands County food bank.
863-402-2112 Mon - Fri 10-6 Sat. 10-4
330 US 27 N - Sebring, Florida Bright Green Building Across From Alan Jay Nissan
April–May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 57
Is Germany Europe’s Wine Outcast? By David Padgitt, Branch Manager for PRP Wine
German
wines are certainly different than most of the rest of Europe’s wines. They primarily come in one color: white. Although, there are some really fantastic red German and Hungarian wines that are somewhat of the exception. They are usually fruity in style, lower in alcohol, hardly ever oaked and are usually on the sweeter side Red grapes aren’t often grown in Germany due to the fact that Germany is the Northern most major European wine producing country. The climate is very cool which normally doesn’t allow red grapes to ripen fully. There are however a few pockets of warmer weather that does allow for some limited red grapes. The most common red grape is the Spätburgunder, which is more commonly known as the Pinot Noir. Most of Germany’s grapes are grown along rivers and on steep, sunny hills to moderate the extremes of the weather.
Riesling is probably the most well known of the German grape varieties. The Riesling grape finds true happiness in Germany’s cool climates and represents over 20% of the total vines in Germany. The word Riesling is often used as a synonym for German wine. However, it is actually a specific grape type and not a word describing all German wine. Another major grape in Germany is the Müller-Thurgau grape which is a cross between the Riesling and the Silvaner grapes. There are some great wines made from the Müeller-Thurgau grapes. This grapes wine is usually softer. Search some of your specialty wine shops to find this great grape
(often the city and the vineyard). As a n exa m p l e , t h e Burg Layer (town) Schlosskapelle (vineyard) produces a wonderful Spätlese with the Kerner grape.
German wine law divides wines into Prädikat levels. There are six Prädikat levels from the least ripe to the ripest. They are: Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese, Eiswein and Trockenbeerenauslese. Many people think that the Prädikat level is an indication of sweetness. This is not always true. The Prädikat is an indication of the amount of sugar in the grapes at harvest, not the amount of sugar or sweetness of the wines. Remember, Rieslings can be very dry or very sweet. Well then, if Prädikats don’t tell the sweetness of a wine, how do you know? Generally speaking you can guess the sweetness
Some of the other well known grapes are the Silvaner, Kerner, Scheurebe and the Ruländer (Pinot Gris) as well as a few red grapes that are planted in the warmer pockets of the country.
of a German wine by the alcohol content. If the alcohol content is less than 9% you can bet it is most likely a sweeter wine. As a general rule, except some fortified wines, the higher the alcohol content, the drier the wine should feel in your mouth.
Germany’s classification system of wines is not based on the French AOC system like most European countries are. However, German wines are in fact named after the region
In summary, test all these ideas by trying some German wines and experience a whole new world armed with this new knowledge of German wines. ¢
58 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
Nicole La Placa Certified Health Coach
904-826-6300
Lorida, Florida Lose the diet mentality, drop the weight, beat fatigue and have more energy! Meal Planning Cooking Lessons Health Coaching and Corporate Wellness Programs
Cut N’ Up styling salon
Hair Care • Color Highlights • Perms Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy Waxing • Nail/Toes
863.385.7777
Nutrition and Wellness Seminars
“Love Yourself, Eat Well” Facebook.com/LyricalNutrition
www.LyricalNutrition.com
Want to join our team? Stylist/Nail Booth Available
116 N. Ridgewood Dr. Sebring, FL 33070
Blinds ASAP! of Sebring
Your Source For Quality Window Treatments!
George A. Hall Devon P. Donaldson GeoDev Pizza, Inc.
863-386-1177
Custom Vertical Blinds Offer Fashion and Style with a Touch of Class! LaFayette Window Fashions, Coulisse, Comfortex, Skandia, Eclipse, Exus, Mirasol Shutters and More! Let Us Help You With All Your Window Covering Designs!
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blindsasap@embarqmail.com
935 Sebring Square - Sebring, FL April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 59
Southern Recipes by Layne Prescott
f f u P n i t s a e r Chicken B
until time. Soften a at y tr as p angles. of puff ut one sheet cut into either 4 or 6 rect o ke Ta -6 svg. per pliable. Roll out and . ts per pkg/4 ee sh (2 arlic powder ytr Pas epper and g f puff pastry p , lt 1 Box Puff sa h it tw ro n 4-5 oz) Season breas rovolone cheese in cente center of puff sheet) s (1 per perso et p n tl e o cu ic t se sl as ee ½ re ch y erb Place w) Chicken b h one pkg. h n breast onto puff pastr se (Skinny Co as ee Sm ch e. ed ar b u ke er sq n ic ce ch Soft h to ed s n o se ur corner lace seas fo ee P g Ch n y. e ri tr n b as lo y p ll d vo refu Pro am si e g cheeses). Ca together pastry. Place se ake at n ri ve o (c am P pinching ) paper. B aper ter of breast, ment (or foil and sprayed Parchment p d garlic powder to taste ch te ar an on p minu s. Salt, pepper ise down rees until golden 20-30 w th id (w f be cut in hal t cutlets. 350 deg n breast can as 1 large chicke to make 3- 4 chicken bre e) is w & length
Noodle Kugel
Noodle Kug
½ pound w ½ stick b ide egg noodles utter, me lted 8 oz crea Preheat o m ven to 35 1 cups so cheese 0 degree ur cream s F. ¾ cup su Boil the n gar o o 4 eggs to NOT o dles in salted w ve ate 1 t. groun a nd soften rcook). Strain egg r according to pa d ckage dir ¼ t. nutm cinnamon noodles. c re a mc and pour into a gre heese. Add rema In a large mixin ections (being su ½ cup ra eg re in ased, app g is roximate ing ingredients, bowl melt butte 1 Small c ins (regular or go along wit ly 9 x 13 r lden) Place nood an evapo inch bakin h noodle ra ½ cup lig brown, a le kugel in a wate s g dish. ht cream ted milk OR b r (o ½ cup ap microwa out 30 minutes. bath. Bake until ricot pres r heavy) vab cus Aft erves (fo c y). Sprea le container for a er 30 minutes h tard is set and top r top) d apricot eat ½ c. p is golden p ro x. 20 for additio ap p nal 5-10 reserves over top seconds (until sp ricot preserves in rea minutes. of noodle kugel an dable consistend continu e to bake
el
e k a C t u n l a W y r r e b w w o a l r l e m St h s r a M e s e e h C m a e Cr Frosting
mix berry cake 1 Box Straw ) ureed 8 eggs (6-8 ge juice (OR: Use p n ra o ¾ Cup s) strawberrie il o p u 1C y jello d) ½ cup s strawberr ts er (softene (softened) g tt k u p b ) k x o ic st (4 1 2 u eam cheese opped waln 1 8oz pkg cr arshmallow fluff 1-2 cups ch ce n O er m xcept nuts. cake ½ contain ctioner’s sugar e ts n ie d re 16 oz confe Mix all ing add nuts. Place in , well mixed ped walnuts 1 cup chop pans. s. te 25-30 minu degrees for 0 5 3 t a e k a B
60 | April May 2013 Heartland
LIVING
Chicken Breas t in Puff
ueese. Grad d cream ch ntil proper n a r e tt u b gar u Cream fectioner’s su fluff. ally add con Fold in marshmallow . cy consisten on top. put Walnuts d n a e k a C Frost
Stra Waln wberry ut C ake
Buds’ Barber Shop Walk-Ins Welcomed 104 N. 6th Avenue Wauchula
WCE EQUIPMENT 50 Years of Buying, Selling and Trading New & Used Farm Equipment and Industrial Equipment
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www.WCE-Equipment.com
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April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 61
d i n i n g GUIDE Cang Tong Sushi + Hibachi + Chinese Restaurant Enjoy dining in a casual comfortable atmosphere at our new location with a new menu. Hibachi 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. Hours: Sun. - Thurs. 11:30 am – 9:30 pm, Fri. and Sat. 11:30 am –10:30 pm, Monday - closed 110 Sebring Square | Sebring | 863.386.1924 | www.CangTongSebring.com See ad on page 3 and review on page 64.
Cowboy’s Bar-B-Q & Steak Co. For the best in barbecue and steaks a cowboy would be proud of, look no further than Cowboys Bar-B-Q & Steak Co. in Okeechobee. Enjoy their new salad bar that has fresh greens and the finest ingredients that will help you build a masterpiece! Every day of the week they have Daily Specials like All You Can Eat Baby Back Ribs for $9.99 on Monday. Enjoy Live Music every Friday and Saturday night starting at 9 pm. The Okeechobee location also features “The Bull Pen”- which is a beautiful private room with all the amenities needed for company lunches, birthday parties or your next big event. Visit their website to see all of their great specials and band listings Hours: 11 am - 2 am Daily | Serving Lunch and Dinner | Live Music Fri. and Sat. starting at 9 pm. 202 NE 7th Ave| Okeechobee | 863-467-1104| www. cowboysbarbqueandsteakco.com
Cowpoke’s Watering Hole Cowpoke’s Watering Hole serves the highest quality tender and juicy steaks along with a large selection of seafood and scrumptious appetizers. Friday and Saturday night feature live banks inside and Karaoke in the Tiki Bar. The full service bar features happy hour daily from 11am – 7pm. Locally owned, the Hole provides an enjoyable atmosphere for any occasions. Menu Highlights: Oysters, Escargot, Ribeye, Filet, New York Strip, Lobster Tail and Pasta. | Hours: Mon. –Thurs. 11 am- 10 pm; Fri. and Sat. 11 am - 2 am, Sun. Noon – 8 pm. Live Music Fri. and Sat. from 9:30 pm – 1:30 am | Live Music Under the Tiki Sunday from 3 pm – 6 pm 6813 US 27 South | Sebring | 863.314.9459 | www.cowpokeswateringhole.com See ad on page 15 62 | April May 2013 Heartland
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Heartland area’s finest restaurants Eighteen East 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 Rueben; Filet; Giant Shrimp Ravioli. Hours: Mon. thru Fri. 3pm - 11pm. 18 East Main Street | Avon Park | 863.453.1818 | Downtown Avon Park
Island View Lakefront Restaurant & Pub 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 $10.00. Hours: Monday – Sat. 11 am – 8 pm ; Sun. 11 am – 6 pm bar service | Sunset Dining: Mon. – Thurs. 3 pm-6 pm and Saturday 3 pm-8 pm | Call 863-382-1191 for reservations. 5223 Sun N Lake Blvd| Sebring | 863-382-1191| www.IslandViewRestaurant.com
Taste of India Customers reviewing Taste of India comment on the friendliness, excellent food, reasonable prices, comfortable surroundings, and cuisine prepared with your preferred degree of authentic Indian spices. Enjoy a lunch buffet Monday through Saturday or our Sunday Brunch. We provide catering, take-out and delivery, and a private dining room. Wine and Indian/Domestic beers are available. Menu Highlights: Chicken Tilkka Masala, Lamb Madras, Peshwaru Naan, Masala Dosa and Rasmalai | Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11:30am – 2:30pm & 4pm – 10pm | Sunday 11:30am – 3pm & 4pm – 9pm. 3545 US Hwy 27 S | Sebring | 863.314.6351 | www.TasteofIndiaSebring.com
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Heartland Living
By Jessica Adams
Cang Tong Sushi + Hibachi + Chinese Restaurant With a new location, larger restaurant and the addition of two hibachi grills, Cang Tong is a first class restaurant in Sebring, Fla. Located in the Sebring Square Plaza, they are Sebring’s only Hibachi cooking experience. Their talented chefs provide lunch and dinner entertainment. With the new location which is only two doors down from their previous location, they are able to offer ample and comfortable seating as well as a full bar with happy hour specials. They have also changed their menu to include new Hibachi offerings as well as the familiar Chinese and large selection of Sushi specialties. During my visit with my mom, I sampled a few of the house favorites. For appetizer, we both had the Tuna Tango which is served in a martini glass to showcase the beautiful colors of the tomato, tuna, sweet mango and avocado. This is topped with a light citrus pepper dressing known as ponzu sauce which is a wonderful addition to this bright and fresh dish. I will definitely have this again. We were then served with the Ruby and Jade Sushi roll which happens to be my Mom’s favorite. This very popular roll is made up of tempura shrimp, cream cheese and asparagus; yum! To round out our meal we sampled the Sesame Chicken. It was lightly breaded, deep fried and then dressed with a sweet sesame sauce topped with sesame seeds. I can see why this is a top choice for both adults and children. I’ve eaten at the some of the best sushi places around the country and in my opinion; it’s the best sushi around! This is a wonderful place for a lunch or an evening with friends. The fish is always fresh and the meals are wonderfully prepared and presented. The polite wait staff, along with the clean and innovative design of the new location, creates a warm and inviting space for a great dining experience. They also offer take-out service if you’re looking for great food for a night in. The owners, Jason and Jennie, are always present. They are two of the sweetest people you will meet and will make sure your dining experience is everything you expected. Stop in to say hi and enjoy a great meal at Cang Tong. ¢ 64 | April May 2013 Heartland
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Celebrating Mother Earth Historic Downtown Sebring
Events & Happenings April 5 Artworx in the Afternoon Open House at the Yellow House Gallery, From 1-3 PM - www.HighlandsArtLeague.org
April 12 Destination Downtown Sebring’s “Green Thumb Festival” From 5-8 PM - www.DestinationDowntownSebring.com.
April 16 Art Uncorked “Heron” at Highlands Art League 6PM - www.HighlandsArtLeague.org
April 20 Downtown Community Garage Sale & Farmers Market From 7AM-1PM - www.DestinationDowntownSebring.com
April 22 Earth Day - Centennial Park Dedication & Tree Planting Ceremony From 11:30 AM - www.DowntownSebring.org April 23 Art Uncorked “Funky Flowers” at Highlands Art League 6PM - www.HighlandsArtLeague.org.
April 25 Art Uncorked “Happy Tree” at Highlands Art League 6PM - www.HighlandsArtLeague.org.
The following Downtown Sebring merchants are offering special discounts and promotions during the month of April. Archer’s Art 104 N. Ridgewood Drive
Molly’s Treats 110 N. Ridgewood Drive
Hobby Hill Florist 541 N. Ridgewood Drive
Scosta Supply & Interiors 510 Maple Avenue
Linda’s Books 203 N. Ridgewood Drive
Still Chic Boutique 301 Circle Park Drive
For more information on events and merchant specials visit:
Visit www.DowntownSebring.org Heartland April May 2013
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A Boutique and Unique Gifts for 2 & 4 Legged Friends.
Leashes - Collars - Outfits - Beds Dog Art and Décor Spa Products - Nail Trimming 4 Star Line of FROMM and Nutri-Source Dog Food Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10:00 - 5:30 Saturday 9:00 - 3:00
NAIL TRIMMING Saturday 9:00 - 3:00
Appointments or Walk-In’s Welcomed
863-402-0083 or 863-381-6467 112 N. Ridgewood Drive - Sebring
First Class Fashions for Women & Men plus Home Decor Formal&&Bridal Bridal Wear Wear Available Formal Available
863-314-9099
Consignment by Appointment
659 S. Commerce Ave. - Downtown Sebring kathydoherty6593180@gmail.com
356 W. Center Ave - Sebring, FL 33870
“We Perform For You”
“SAVING THE WORLD ONE TUMMY AT A TIME” We know your time is short, come see us for a quick lunch!
66 | April May 2013 Heartland
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Second Samuel April 5 – 7
863-658-1792
High SchoolMusical 2
1568 Lakeview Drive Sebring, Florida
863-382-2525
May 23 – 26
HighlandLittleTheatre.org
Downtown Sebring
Spring Shopping All Roads Lead To The Circle Custom Screen-Printing and Embroidery
863-382-0947
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239 N. Ridgewood Dr. Sebring, FL 33870
Handmade in the USA at our Sebring Rod Shop
Boner® Custsom Fishing Rods Both Freshwater and Inshore Saltwater IF YOU’RE GONNA GO FISHING... YOU GOTTA HAVE A BONER®!
It shouldn’t hurt to be a child
Capt. Ron’s Mercantile • American made Greeting Cards 99¢ • Sebring Post cards • Novelties • Gifts • Team Logo Items • Nautical Home Decor • Sunny Puppets
Se br a n d F l oi ng S o u ve n r id a i rs .
863-658-1681 101 Cirle Park Dr Downtown Sebring
Barber Shop Pam Kirouac (P3) - Owner/Stylist Monday - Thursday 8:30am - 4:00pm 863.382.6655, 117 N Ridgewood Dr, Sebring, FL
The big guys have lots of items... I have that one unique special gift! www.capt-rons-online.com April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 67
Heartland April
5-20*
12 April13 April13-14 April13-14 April19 April19-20 April 20 April 20 April 20 April24-25 April26 April26-27 April
68 | April May 2013 Heartland
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C A L E N D A R OF
The Story of Jesus – Florida’s Passion Play Cattleman’s Arena | Wauchula * Shows on these dates only April 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 Destination Downtown Sebring’s “2nd Annual Green Thumb Festival” | 5pm – 8pm | Sebring Big Game Safari Dinner and Tours Triple C Stables | 6pm | Sebring Relay for Life of Okeechobee Sat. noon – Sun. 6am |Agri-Civic Center | Okeechobee Bikefest Okeechobee Cypress Hut Eagles 4509 | Okeechobee Main Street Friday Fest 6pm – 10:30 pm | Main Street | Bartow 27th Annual Sugar Festival City Park | Clewiston Downtown Garage Sale and Farmers Market 7am - 1pm | Downtown | Sebring 3rd Annual Avon Park Rotary Blueberry and Bluegrass Festival 10am - 4pm | Donaldson Park | Avon Park 10th Annual Rotary L.O.S.T. Bike Ride/Run/Walk Scott Driver Boat Ramp | Okeechobee All Florida Ag Show Highlands Today Center | Sebring Okeechobee County Sheriff Law Enforcement Torch Run 9am | Okeechobee 7th Annual Woman in the Outdoors Quail Creek Plantation | Okeechobee
Community Events 27 April 27 April
3-4 May3-4 May
4 May10 May
11 May17 May17-18 May18 May 18 May 25 May
April | May
2013
3rd Annual Humane Society Flashlight Egg Hunt 4pm | Animal Shelter | Sebring Concert Under the Stars 7pm | Bok Tower Gardens | Lake Wales
The Heartland Tailgate Extravaganza Downtown | Sebring O.L. Raulerson, Jr. Scholarship Fund On Your Mark, Get Set BBQ! Agri-Civic Center | Okeechobee Art on the Waterfront 6pm – 10pm | Shores of Lake Jackson | Sebring Destination Downtown Sebring’s “Mom’s the Word” 5pm – 8pm | Downtown | Sebring Desoto County Watermelon Festival and Pageants 9am – 4pm | Desoto Park | Arcadia Missions on Main & Send Me Missions 5K 7pm | Main St. Heritage Park | Wauchula All Florida Jr. Rodeo Agri-Civic Center | Okeechobee Downtown Garage Sale and Farmer’s Market 7am - 1pm | Downtown | Sebring Lake Placid Chamber 2013 5K/10K Run/Walk 7am – 11am | DeVane Park | Lake Placid Home Run for Habitat 5k Run/Walk Highlands Hammock State Park | Sebring
Details May Be Subject to Change.
Want to announce your Community Event? Email us at jessica@heartland-living.com. April May 2013
Heartland LIVING | 69
Advertisers Index
25 Amanda Armentrout 53 American Drilling 53 Amber Louise Boutique 30 Avon Park Rotary Blueberry Festival 59 Blinds ASAP 57 Boom Booms Guns & Ammo 67 Boner Outfitters 25 Budget Bi-Rite Insurance 61 Bud’s Barber 3 Cang Tong Restaurant 67 Captain Ron Merchantile 34 Charlotte’s Web 51 Cornerstone Hospice 15 Cowpoke’s Watering Hole 23 Creative Printing 61 CSA Design Group 59 Cut n’ Up Salon 17 Desoto County Watermelon Festival 66 Dogtown USA 5 Everglades Pediatric Dentistry 49 Florida Fence Post 57 Florida Fuel of Hardee 36 Florida Hospital Heartland 72 Florida Hospital Health Partners
55 Food for Thought 66 Frames and Images
65 Sebring Downtown 9 Sebring Downtown Greenthumb 66 Still Chic Boutique
67 Galleria 301 7 GB’s Formal Wear 19 Gerald & Associates 66 28 19 66 71 2
Happy Planet Express Heartland National Bank Heathcock Insurance Highlands Little Theatre Highlands Medical Group Highlands Regional Medical
66 Kathy’s Consignment 35 Laye’s Tire Service 31 Legacy Bicycle 59 Lyrical Nutrition 23 Mark Palmer Electric 17 Miller’s Central Air 51 Mobility Express 67 Off The Top Barber 59 53 38 38 17
Papa Johns Pizza Paul’s Plantscape Pink Pineapple Catering Rafael Pacheco Photography Residence Inn
30 The Bulb Bin 53 The Daisy Girl Shop 49 Triple H Septic Services 61 WCE Equipment 55 Willey, Dr. David E. 62-63 DINING GUIDE Cang Tong Restaurant Cowboy’s Bar-B-Q & Steak Co. Cowpoke’s Wateringhole Eighteen East Island View Restaurant Taste of India 39-47 HEARTLAND WEDDING STYLE Chateau Hotel GB’s Men’s & Ladies Formal Wear Highlands Master Jeweler Hobby Hill Florist Lake County Jeweler Miss Cindy’s Garden Roden + Fields Dermatologists Sun N’ Lakes - Island View Taylor Rental The Blueberry Patch The Hotel Jacaranda Travis Brandon Photography
Heartland
LIVING
The Most Widely Distributed Magazine in the Heartland!
Heartland LIVING is your very own Community Lifestyle Magazine. 20,000 copies published per issue, circulated to Homes & Businesses in all seven counties in the Heartland, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Okeechobee and Polk Counties
We distribute to over 1000 High Traffic Locations throughout Heartland. If you would like to profile your business in Heartland Living please call 863-781-0344 or email Cindy@Heartland-Living.com.
All 6 publications direct mailed to your home for $15.95. Go to our website to subscribe or mail us your address information and check, made out to Heartland Publications.
Heartland Publications | 412 Rest Haven Road | Zolfo Springs, FL 33890
www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com 70 | April May 2013 Heartland
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Never Miss an Issue of Your Heartland Lifestyle Magazine
www.HighlandsMedicalGroup.com
“For the care your family needs... when they need it most.”
Robert Midence, M.D.
Kwabena Pobi, M.D.
Jessica Narvaez-Lugo, M.D.
Internal Medicine 3700 Emergency Lane - Sebring, FL 33870
Urology 2373 US Hwy 27 South - Sebring, FL 33870
Gastroenterology & Hepatology 3750 Emergency Lane - #4 - Sebring, FL 33870
M. Braimah Saaka, M.D.
Donald Ware, D.O.
Tahir S. Chaudhri, M.D.
863-386-4302
Vascular Surgery 2401 US Hwy 27 South - Sebring, FL 33870
863-314-0141
L. Francisco Espaillat, M.D.
General Surgery & Comprehensive Breast Surgeon 3327 Medical Hill Road - Sebring, FL 33870
863-382-2576
Family Practice 2341 US Hwy 27 South - Sebring, FL 33870
863-471-3500
863-385-1045
Orthopedic Surgery 3315 Medical Hill Road - Sebring, FL 33870
863-314-9308
Kevin Robinson, M.D.
Euclides Marmolejos-Baez, M.D.
863-402-1970
863-386-4302
Ears, Nose, Throat 3435 S. Highlands Avenue - Sebring, FL 33870
863-382-6108
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Internal Medicine 3700 Emergency Lane - Sebring, FL 33870
April May 2013
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