Heartland Living Apr-May Issue 2014 by Heartland LIVING

Heartland LIVING April| May 2014

Your Lifestyle Community Magazine

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LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT CENTRAL FLORIDA

Lakeland Highland City Auburndale Winter Haven Haines City Davenport Bartow Avon Park Sebring Lake Placid Okeechobee Wauchula Arcadia Tampa Brandon Land O’ Lakes Lutz Plant City St. Petersburg Clearwater Vero Beach Sebastian ■

■

Lake Wales

Letter From

THE PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER

Heartland LIVING is honored to have Andrew McCutchen from his hometown of Fort Meade grace our spring cover. 2013 was a banner year for McCutchen, who led the Pirates to the playoffs for the first time since 1992 and received the title of the National League’s Most Valuable Player. “Cutch” still remembers where he comes from and strives to give back to his hometown returning every season to host his annual “Raising The Standard” Baseball Camp at Fort Meade Dixie Youth Baseball Complex. “I’ve created a lot of history here, and it’s always great to comeback here and pay my respects,” said McCutchen. Spring is my favorite time of the year and I don’t know about you but I’m more than ready for the warmer weather. It doesn’t matter where you live; the weather has been crazy everywhere across the country. I’m anticipating sunny days, warmer weather and some great outdoor activities we share in our Spring Issue. Bok Tower would be one of the great places to enjoy the outdoors celebrating its 85th Anniversary this past February. We are so excited to share breath-taking photos captured by Caroline Maxcy, along with the exciting news that they are continuing the vision of Edward W. Bok with the largest remodeling campaign in its history. Hope you enjoy reading about Bok Tower and will take some time to stroll through the beautiful gardens. We are also excited to share with you Dubin Ranch in Arcadia and the gorgeous photography captured by Traci Newlin, not only of the horses but also the beautiful ladies who ride and take care of them. Laren Harmon and Ed Dubin have been in Arcadia since 1977 and they will tell you it’s not a typical ranch you would find in this area. When you enter the gates your welcomed with a peace sign. Their slogan is “We ride some great horses and we win plenty of prizes, but when ya come right down to the nitty gritty, for us, it’s all about the FUN”. We want to congratulate John Dean II of Sick Sideways Racing Team for setting the lap record during his win on March 14 at the Sebring International Raceway. “Amazing” is the word Dean used to describe his win in his No. 16 Mazda in the second round of the SCCA Pro Racing at this years 12 Hours of Sebring Weekend. On behalf of the entire Heartland LIVING team, I sincerely hope you find tremendous value in this spring issue. We will continue our commitment to deliver fresh perspectives featuring the areas most interesting stories.As always we sincerely thank our advertisers and readers, as we know this publication wouldn’t be possible without your support.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

God Bless!

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Heartland LIVING CONTENTS | April • May 2014

FEATURES McCutchen 10 Andrew By Jessica Adams

Towers 24 Bok 85th Anniversary

Special Section 52

By Katy Fassler

Love & Horses 36 Peace, Dubin Ranch

John Dean II - Sick Sideways Racing Team By Pam Glinski

Columns

By Christy Swift

70 72 74 76 78 80

Showcasing The Arts Why Visit An Art Museum? Woman2Woman Taylor Reneé Fulford Heartland’s Heroes Care Mob Healthy Heartland Spring Forward with a Healthy Mind The Wine Cellar Springtime Wine Southern Chef Recipes by Layne Prescott

Heartland Events

24 36

20 Raising the Standard

Baseball Camp 34 Top of the Lake Art Fest 48 Cattle Baron’s Ball 50 MidFlorida Spring Obsession 60 Citrus Labels and Crate Expectations Art Exhibit 64 Slice of Life 68 Cup of Love High Tea

48 Heartland LIVING April| May 2014

82 Dining Guide 84 Calendar of Community Events 86 Advertisers Index 6

Cover Andrew McCutchen Photo by Caroline Maxcy Story on page 10 Your Lifestyle Community Magazine

Heartland

LIVING

April | May 2014

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CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams Creative | Art Director Bridgette Waldau

Alfred Angelo Jasmine Adna Impressions Allure Bridal Maggie Sottero

Feature Writers Jessica Adams Katy Fassler Pamela Glinski Christy Swift Contributing Writers Cindy Sebring Adams Nathan Kalin Layne Prescott Bridgette Waldau

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Cover | Feature Photographer Caroline Maxcy Feature Photographers Jessica Adams Traci Newlin Photographers Cindy Sebring Adams Amanda Armentrout Amber Callaham Pam Glinski Bridgette Waldau

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Heartland Living Magazine is published quarterly by Heartland Publications & Marketing. Copyright 2014, 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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Written By Jessica Adams Photos by Jessica Adams and Cindy Adams

rom the small town of Fort Meade, FL to now one of the most decorated Major League Baseball players, Andrew McCutchen, 27, has made a household name for himself. He is not simply known for his dynamic athletic ability on the field but an even bigger heart, which he uses to give back to local and national youth and community organizations. In the eighth grade, McCutchen was eligible to play for the Fort Meade High School varsity baseball team. Once in high school, McCutchen excelled in many sports including football and track, but his passion was for baseball. Education was important to him and his parents, Lorenzo and Petrina McCutchen, and he received a baseball scholarship from the University of Florida. In 2005 McCutchen was selected in the first round of the Major League Baseball draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates. He hoped that by making the decision to enter the draft, he would be offered security in his career of baseball. McCutchen has found nothing but success and credits “the sacrifices that were made not only by me but by my family” to where he is today. In 2009, McCutchen was brought up from the minor league to the major league. In his Rookie season, McCutchen hit three home runs in a single game becoming the first Pittsburgh Pirate rookie to do so. He recalled that day as “an amazing day”. The Pittsburgh Pirate rookie said it was “a lot of fun not knowing what to expect and then after the second home run, something I had never done before, I had nothing to lose going up to the third at bat.” McCutchen was thrown a good pitch and slammed it out of the park. McCutchen said, “That was probably one of the biggest moments of my career, doing something like that and doing it as a rookie.” Less than two weeks after his three-homerun game, McCutchen stole a careerhigh three bases against the Colorado Rockies. Coors Field in Denver, Colorado is his second favorite field to play. “It’s really cool to look in the stadium and see the purple seats knowing those people are sitting a mile in the air”, says McCutchen.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Photography by Caroline Maxcy

That year, McCutchen was named Baseball America’s Rookie of the Year, which gave him and his family the confidence and assurance that he is where he deserves to be. McCutchen has received many awards for his outstanding athletic ability including the coveted Rawlings Golden Glove award in 2012, two time recipient of the Louisville Silver Slugger award (2012 and 2013) and the National League Most Valuable Player in 2013, becoming the first Pittsburgh Pirate since Barry Bonds in 1992 to win this award. He was also chosen to grace the cover of the PlayStation 3 video game: MLB 13: The Show, edging out New York Yankees’ pitcher, CC Sabathia. cCutchen’s philanthropy is what makes his success story so interesting and inspiring. Instilled with great values by his parents, he has chosen to use his accomplishments and stature in the community to give back. Now residing in the Pittsburgh area, he is the current spokesperson for the Greater Pittsburgh area Habitat for Humanity, a member of the Make a Wish Foundation, and has created a mentorship program called Cutch’s Crew. With Cutch’s Crew, he was involved in molding together two rival high schools in Pittsburgh, Oliver and Perry, who were going to be consolidated into one school the following year. He mentored the baseball team and taught them that there is more to baseball and life than rivalries and the need to beat the other team. He was able to teach these young men important life lessons and share his experi-

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Photo left courtesy of Pittsburg Pirates. Dave Arrigo, photographer.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

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ences to give them the fundamentals necessary for a smooth and successful transition. “We as baseball players and athletes have the ability to make a difference and when I get the opportunity, it’s great to get to do that”, said McCutchen. Great athletes have a unique ability to make a difference and use their name for a good cause. Through Cutch’s Crew and other organizations in which he is actively involved, he continues to organize charity events to benefit various Pirate Charities. Throughout the country, McCutchen has established baseball camps but every year returns to Fort Meade to hold the Raising the Standard Baseball Camp. For McCutchen, it is an honor to be able to come back home and pay respect, knowing this is where he started his career. With the help of his parents, sister Lauren, extended family, friends, volunteers and even a few Pirate players, he is excited to be able to come out and support a great cause and provide a good experience

McCutchen with the Richardson 5 singers, from Lake Wales, Fla., outside the Pirates’ clubhouse where they performed a series of songs for McCutchen, the team that delighted and amazed passersby. Pictured with McCutchen: Robert, 12; Octaveous, 11; Johnathan 10; Qornelious, 8 and Rashon 6. Photography by Caroline Maxcy.

-Director of Baseball Communications, Jim Trdinich

for the local youth. McCutchen said, “It’s neat to sit on the t-ball field and know this is where I started.” He played his first games and got his start on the same field he holds the baseball camp today. cCutchen’s athletic performance and celebrity status has changed over the years, but according to Director of Baseball Communications, Jim Trdinich, one thing that has not changed is McCutchen’s attitude and ego. “I’ve known Andrew since we signed him out of the draft in 2005, to his credit he has not changed one bit. We signed him

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Many of the photos in this story were taken during spring training at McKechnie Field in Bradenton, FL.

out of Fort Meade High School and to this day, after he signed his big contract, he’s still the great Andrew McCutchen that I knew as a 17 year-old.” “You always hear from different people that if you work hard and stay positive that you can do it and, honestly, it’s the truth,” says McCutchen. His outstanding athleticism, humble and positive attitude and love for his family should make his local community proud to call him their own. Adding to his family, McCutchen recently delivered an MVP-worthy marriage proposal to his girlfriend Maria Hansloven of four years, live on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. When asked what he would like to say to the aspiring youth, he said, “I feel that coming from little Fort Meade, having young parents who made a lot of sacrifices for me, and sticking with something that I love doing, it was awesome. So, anything is possible if you put your mind to it and work hard toward what you want in life.” I can’t think of a more positive role model to the local youth. ¢

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

MVP Andrew McCutchen Repaying Hometown of Fort Meade With Fund-Raising Youth Camp Fort Meade native Andrew McCutchen returned to his roots yet again on Saturday, Feb. 1, hosting his Third Annual “Raising The Standard” Baseball Camp at Fort Meade Dixie Youth Baseball Complex in Fort Meade, Florida. Coming off a stellar 2013 season in which he brought home the National League MVP Award, McCutchen still remembers where he comes from and strives to give back to his hometown city. “I’ve created a lot of history here, and it’s always great to comeback here and pay my respects,” said McCutchen. When the National League MVP speaks, you bet the kids listen. (Above) Many area kids attend the camp. (Below) Young players were happy to get autographs from Pedro Alvarez.

All proceeds from the one-day clinic are earmarked for Fort Meade Dixie Youth Baseball. Instructions on strength and speed drills and defensive and batting techniques were capped off by an inspirational address by McCutchen. It was one of McCutchen’s final public appearances before joining the rest of the Pirates for the start of Spring training. Position players are to report Feb. 17 but McCutchen, whose Fort Meade roots are a mere 50 miles from Pirate City, is predictably one of the regular early arrivals.

Neil Walker gave out his autograph after working with the kids.

Pedro Alvarez watch with McCutchen’s dad, Lorenzo.

(L-R) Ethan Armentrout, Sebring; Justin and Brady Marshall of Riverview.

Heartland LIVING

Before the camp ended, the humble star spoke to the players and made sure every kid that enjoyed the camp didn’t leave without a smile and an autograph. Proudly standing to the left of her son is Petrina McCutchen. (Left) All the young players join in prayer.

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Bok Tower Gardens

85th

Anniversary By Katy Fassler Photos by Caroline Maxcy

mid the sprawling orange groves of Lake Wales, Florida stands Bok Tower. This magnificent monument to beauty, surrounded by its breathtaking gardens, celebrated its 85th anniversary this February. With this commemorated anniversary comes exciting news: the largest campaign in its history to continue the vision Edward W. Bok had to share this beautiful land with the world. Edward W. Bok, a Dutch immigrant, and his wife, Mary Louise Curtis Bok, spent their winters in Lake Wales and were inspired by their beautiful surroundings to create a bird sanctuary on its highest hill. Bok would walk from his home most evenings up the hill to watch the sunset and was soon visualizing sharing this beauty with the world. Â&#x201E;

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower Carillon.

Construction started in 1921 with the commission of noted landscape architect, Fredrick Law Olmsted, Jr., to design and create the expansive gardens. The most notable feature of the garden is The Singing Tower. Designed by Milton B. Medary, the tower was built in Gothic Revival and Art Deco style. It stands south of a reflection pool that allows the water to reflect its full and grand image. The tower is surrounded by a 15-foot moat alive with giant lily pads and beautiful Koi. It is built of pink Etowah marble and gray Creole marble, mined in Tate, Georgia, and Florida native coquina stone, from Daytona Beach, Florida. A 60-bell carillon set, which is hung within the 205-foot tower, is played daily; enveloping the gardens with beautiful music. Construction on the tower began in 1927 and was completed in less than two years in February, 1929 when it was dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge to the American people.

Preserve the Legacy, Steward the Future

Bok’s grandmother told him to “make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it,” which he did throughout his lifetime. These words are still the inspiration of the gardens today. “Preserve the Legacy, Steward the Future” is the largest capital campaign in Bok Tower Garden’s history and has grand and exciting plans. The $12 million campaign proposes to undertake four major initiatives to keep the gardens relevant and sustainable. This includes “Rejuvenation of the Historic Core Garden”, improving accessibility, telling Pinewood Estates.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

The beautiful view from Bok Tower.

the Bok Tower Gardens story, and creating new gardens for future generations.

Rejuvenation of the Historic Core Garden

Upkeep of the tower and surrounding grounds is constant; however, to ensure this historic landmark’s preservation for future generations, further detail needs to be given to the Singing Tower. A portion of the capital campaign, $2.5 million, will be given to removing rust, sealing, and painting the iconic tile grilles surrounding the bell chamber at the top of the tower. In addition to the tower, the campaign will also bring more life to the garden. According to Brian Ososky, the director of marketing and public relations, “Every 25 to 30 years, a thorough evaluation of plantings in the historic core garden is made to ensure the original Olmsted design principles are adhered to, and that plantings remain healthy and thriving.” This evaluation will include a “comprehensive editing of plants, replacement of older plantings to ensure plant health, and

Nestled in the heart of seven and one-half lush acres at Bok Tower Gardens is Pinewood Estate, the enchanting 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion. Originally named “El Retiro,” meaning “retreat” in Spanish, the Estate was built in the early 1930s for Charles Austin Buck, a Bethlehem Steel vice president. Now this historic Estate is open for tours throughout the year to visitors of Bok Tower Gardens.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

augmentation of plantings to feature greater plant diversity, colors, and textures near primary walkways.”

Improving Accessibility

The walkways that lead guests around the gardens and tower are difficult to navigate if you are in a wheelchair, mobility cart, or have difficulty walking up high grades. This campaign plans to change and improve this problem. A new oval walkway is to be constructed behind the Garden Visitor Center to help guests find their way to the Singing Tower, Pinewood Estate, and the new expansion gardens. The primary path will be re-graded and paved using material and color that will blend with the garden setting. “It’s a delicate situation,” says Brian Ososky, “because it’s a naturalistic setting. What we don’t want to have is pavement everywhere. The primary path is mulched and no one in a wheelchair or family with a stroller come up here. To me, it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the garden.” $1.5 million is allocated for this portion of the campaign. “People have asked us what we think Bok or Olmsted would have thought of the plans we have in place and we think both of them would agree it is an improvement. Bok’s goal was to make the gardens accessible to everyone. We are going to keep true to Olmsted’s naturalistic design and setting. We are just going to make it more accessible.” According to a Bok Tower and Gardens press release, the Blue Palmetto Café will also be expanding their outdoor seating which will be next to a pollinator garden which will attract birds and butterflies. There will also be a new, dedicated shuttle route through the core garden with a convenient pick-up point adjacent to the Visitor Center enabling more guests to have an “immersive garden experience”.

Pinewood Estate

Telling the Bok Tower Gardens Story

Inside the Visitor Center are exhibits that tell the story of Edward Bok and the history of the Gardens. Unfortunately, these exhibits have not been updated since their opening in 1997. A part of the campaign, $2.1 million, will be used to install a new series of exhibits using modern technology and other media to “engage and inspire people of all ages” says Ososky. In addition, these funds will be used to “tell the story” of Florida’s own landscape. Near the “Window by the Pond, there will be an “expansion that will take visitors Heartland through an eight-acre diversity of Florida ecologies, includLIVING ing an oak hammock, sandhill preserve, and wetland bog. The Garden’s existing pond is leaking and must be repaired. April May Window by the Pond and the Endangered Plant Garden will 2014 remain intact to be discovered by new generations of visitors.”

Carillonneur-Geert D’hollander. Geert was named Bok Tower Gardens’ fourth full-time carillonneur in October 2012. He has studied, among others, piano, chamber music, choral- and orchestral direction, fugue, and composition at the Royal Conservatory in Antwerp (Belgium), and carillon at the Royal Carillon School in Mechelen (Belgium). He was first prize winner in about 30 international competitions for carillon and/ or composition. In 1997 he succeeded Ronald Barnes as University Carillonist and Professor of Carillon at the Department of Music at UC Berkeley. In 2008 he was awarded the “Berkeley Medal of Honors” for “Distinguished Service to the Carillon.” Currently, he is a carillon composition teacher at the Royal Carillon School in Mechelen in Belgium. He has made five appearances at our International Carillon Festival.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

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Bok Tower Gardens founder Edward W. Bok and his wife Mary Louise Curtis Bok immigrated to America from Den Helder, Netherlands at age six.

Stewarding the Gardens for Future Generations Bok Tower and Gardens is working hard to create a space for families to enjoy and ultimately teach the future generations to take care of their environment and to make the connection between us and our world. A large part of the campaign, $5.9 million, will be given to these projects. According to Brian Ososky, there will be a new, 3 acre Children’s Garden which will include water features, beautiful artwork, a boardwalk, canopy climb, sandboxes for digging and playing, musical instruments, and much more. Children will have things to “climb on, under and through, as well as places to build dig and create.” Next to the Children’s Garden will be a new outdoor kitchen with large, raised vegetable beds, a fire pit, entertaining area, and a place for culinary demonstrations.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Bok Tower and Gardens is a historical landmark that no one should miss and with this new and exciting campaign, it will be accessible to all. Visit Bok Tower and its beautiful gardens at 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales, FL 33853 and make sure to check out their website: www.boktowergardens.org. ¢

“Make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.” -Edward W. Bok’s grandmother

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

2014 Top of the Lake Art Fest

By Bridgette Waldau

Okeechobee Main Street presented the 2014 Top of the Lake Art Fest on Feb. 8 and 9 at Flagler Park in downtown Okeechobee. The two-day event featured fine art and artisan crafts by local and national artists, as well as local student artists and a group of Florida Highwaymen artists. The second annual Top of the Lake Chalk Walk, with street-painting artists creating chalk masterpieces was a crowd favorite. The event also hosted a Battle of the Bands the second annual Paws in the Park. For more information about this event and a list of all the winners, go to www.okeechobeemainsteet.org. Photos courtesy of OKMS art and culture committee. (Left) Artist Renee King, Malabar, FL.

(Above) Highwaymen artist Kelvin Hair of Ft. Pierce. (Below) Okeechobee artist Brad Phares.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

(Above) Pottery of artist Trent Gibbs, Ft. Pierce.

(Below) Street chalk artist Hector Diaz, West Palm Beach.

(Above) Ken Mullen of West Palm Beach with his large chalk portrait of Tom Waits. (Left) Chalk art of Kathie Pappasso of Okeechobee. (Bottom Left) Chalk artist Aislynn Mullen, West Palm Beach.

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Peace,Love and Horses By Christy Swift Photos by Traci Newlin

A sign on the barn at Dubin Ranch reads, “A flower child and an old hippie live here.” Peace signs populate the property, appearing everywhere from the front gate to the horse trailer to Laren Harmon’s necklace and her boots. It’s more reminiscent of San Diego, California than Arcadia, Florida, but Harmon has never had a problem with being different. She was born and raised in Miami and moved to Florida’s heartland in 1968, at the height of the peace and love era, when she was just 13 years old. “In Miami we weren’t allowed to wear jeans in school. Here all the boys wore jeans. This county was so country, and Dade county was so different,” the cheerful flower child recalls. She’s surrounded by a menagerie of dogs of all sizes. In the background, two young girls run their horses through a maze of cones, bridges and rails. But while Harmon wore peasant skirts and peace signs while her friends wore jeans, Heartland she did have something that LIVING April May 2014

bonded her to the other kids in the area right away-- her love for horses. “I was one of those little girls that was pony, pony, pony. They got me my first pony when I was nine and my first horse when I was eleven. It’s all I ever wanted to do,” she says. But Harmon’s style of horse riding was different from what went on in Arcadia. She rode English horses and did dressage and jumping while the kids out here were running barrels and calf roping. What could a girl do to fit in? “I took my horses that jumped that were thoroughbreds and ran barrels on them!” she laughed. After graduating high school, Harmon was sure all she wanted to do was work with horses. Her father offered to help her get started in her

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Laren Harmon with her horse - Will It Float, aka Ray.

(Above) Harmon trains the riders and their horses. (L-R) Avery Sinclair with Metallic Zippo, Chandra Gall with Beau Leaguer, Anna Wilson with Woody Be Invited and Sydney Craig with Will It Float. (Right) One of the beautiful painted horses in a quiet moment at the ranch.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

career if she got her Bachelor’s degree. She fast-tracked a four-year degree at UF in three years, then married a horse trainer, Ed Dubin, and the two set off making their dreams come true. Their kind of horse training just wasn’t done in DeSoto county, so travel was a big part of their lives. But Harmon’s father died shortly after she married, a heartbreak for the young woman who felt she owed her parents, George and Skippy Harmon, so much for giving her the childhood she enjoyed and for being supportive of her eclectic style. The couple stayed local to help Harmon’s mom and worked their business the best they could from Arcadia. As much as they loved their location, it was a huge drawback. “I said, well, we’ll stay and we’ll get mom settled and then we’ll relocate. There was always a reason to stay. I wanted to stay here,” said Harmon, who loves the area and the community. So they stayed and built their business, Dubin Farms, in the cheerful, tie-dyed style that surrounds Harmon wherever she goes. With an easy laugh and that little bit of rebellion that defines her style (she wears brogans, not cowboy boots and a cap, not a cowboy hat), Harmon and Dubin trained horses not only in the roping and racing techniques that local kids wanted, but in the basics of the formal horse disciplines that she had learned and mastered. Whereas the rodeo events (Below) Chandra Gall with Beau Leaguer in perfect step together.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

emphasize speed, the events she grew up doing focused on style. It’s like speed skating versus ice skating, Harmon clarifies. On the trail behind her, the girls are backing their horses through the course now. Harmon explains that all of the horses that come into her program will learn show horse skills before they start doing timed events. “They all jump at least two feet, they all learn to run a barrel pattern, they all learn to do flying lead changes, they all learn to do a training-level dressage class, a basic reining class,” she goes on. Dubin and Harmon feel that training the horses to master different types of skills made them more versatile and therefore better in the arena, and their track record proves the theory. The awards they’ve won are too numerous to list, but their horses and riders have taken home top honors in the APHA (American Paint Horse Association) World Championships in Youth, Amateur, and Open divisions starting in the early ‘80s and continuing through 2013; the APHA Top 20

(Opposite page) Avery Sinclair and Metallic Zippo. (Right) Chandra Gall and Beau Leaguer. (Below) Harmon watching Sydney Craig and Will It Float.

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Harmon with her students taking a walk on the beautiful grounds of Dubin Ranch.

World Titles in all the same divisions; the APHA Honor Roll Titles in all the same divisions; the number one AjPHA (American Junior Paint Horse Association) Youth team in the nation on more than one occasion (some of Harmon’s proudest moments) and winner of the AjPHA Versatility Class at the APHA World Show on more than one occasion. Things are quieter now that Dubin has retired, but Harmon in her late 60s isn’t ready to retire yet. I thought I’d do it for a couple more years, win a world title, then retire, Harmon muses. But after that there

“A lot of it goes back to the peace sign and karma. If you really, really work hard at what you do, and you love what you do, and you do your best, why wouldn’t you be successful?” -Laren Harmon

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

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(Above) Gracie takes a rest. (Above right) At the end of the day, Stripe is waiting in the barn for the girls.

was always one more girl who wanted to apprentice with her, and she didn’t have it in her heart to let a kid down. Dubin and Harmon do not have children of their own, but girls like 21-year-old Avery Sinclair who works at the ranch and client Sydney Craig, quietly guiding her horse through the track, are like daughters to her. Harmon quotes the words of her dad, an airline pilot, speaking to his children with a smile as he got ready for work in the morning: “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.” Harmon took that advice to heart, adding her own hippie spin, of course. “A lot of it goes back to the peace sign and karma,” Harmon adds. “If you really, really work hard at what you do, and you love what you do, and you do your best, why wouldn’t you be successful?” ¢

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Cattle Barons’ Ball The American Cancer Society’s Cattle Barons’ Ball held in Lakeland on March 1 was a western theme with a Mardi Gras flare event that hosted guests for an evening of dining, dancing, great music, gaming, entertainment, auctions and other special attractions. The event was hosted by David Brunch and held on his rand. The ball was the biggest and best theme fundraising event of its kind benefiting the American Cancer Society. Photos by Amber Calham.

(Above and below): The food and drinks were displayed and served with a festive Mardi Gras flare.

(L-R) Francesca Fancelli, David Bunch (event host), Ana Wood and Gregory Fancelli.

April May 2014

(L-R) Bart Fulmer, Summer Fulmer, Danielle Denmark and Mickey Denmark.

(L-R) Jan Hyman, Terri Rombola and Beth Merritt.

Karen Schick replenished the craw-fish boil.

Celebrity Auctioneer, Lakelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Marty Higgenbotham.

There was plenty of delicious food.

Many games kept the guest smiling.

(Above and Right) Names were put on mason jars, lit with candles and put on display to honor those affected by cancer. (Left) It was a beautiful setting and night for the event.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

The 12th Annual Spring Obsession Garden & Art Event in beautiful, Historic Downtown Lakeland was sponsored by MIDFLORIDA on March 8 in Munn Park.

Flowers by Rusty Gate Gardens owner, Linda Brueske.

The annual spring event provides funding for beautification and cultural development in Lakeland. A celebration of garden, art, music the event also featured local and regional nurseries and garden exhibitors. The celebration was enjoyed by everyone. This well attended family-oriented one-day event offered garden-related activities and presentations. All products by artists and exhibitors were garden/nature/wildlife related work. This event attracts visitors from throughout Central Florida. Spring Obsession is green â&#x20AC;&#x201C; emphasizing recycling & energy saving products & projects. Photos by Amber Callaham.

Kneeling: Mum Ann Flynn. Standing (L-R): Judy Garretson, Deanna Hardeman, Chris Brinkman, Kathleen Brinkman and Robin Autio. (Left) There was live entertainment throughout the day.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Above (L-R) Iris Herz and Candy Pappas. Left (L-R) Christina Needham, Norah Needham and Paul Needham. (Far left) Beautiful entrance to Munn Park.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

John Dean I I Sick Sideways Racing Team Member Sets Lap Record During His Win At Sebring International Raceway By Pamela Glinski Photos Courtesy of Sick Sideways Racing Teams

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

“Amazing”

is the word John Dean II used to describe his win in his No. 16 Projections Research/PPG MX-5 during the second round of the SCCA Pro Racing Mazda MX-5 Cup on Friday, March 14 at the Sebring International Raceway. After being edged out in Thursday’s first round competition by only 0.053 seconds by California driver Kenton Koch, Dean was able to dominate his hometown race on Friday, winning over Koch with a 0.542 second lead. Dean was also able to set a new lap record, clocked in at 2.29.059, going 89.360 mph around the 17 turns of Sebring International Raceway’s 3.74 mile track. “We are just so proud of him,” said his longtime girlfriend, Priscilla Preece, who does marketing for Dean’s Sick Sideways Racing Team. This year, four cars ran under the Sick Sideway banner in the two 15 lap races that were held during the Mobil 1 - 62nd annual 12 Hours of Sebring weekend. The drivers were Dean, Nathaniel “Sparky” Sparks, 17 year-old Ethan Lou from Clearwater, and Danny Bender. Friday’s victory was Dean’s second win at Sebring in the Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BF Goodrich Tires. “It is pretty exciting to have someone from Sebring in a winning position,” said Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce CEO Liz Barber. “He has been an invaluable help in getting the word out about the Chamber,” she said of Dean and Sick Sideway, the official race team of the Sebring Chamber of Commerce for the past two years. “He has also been so kind to be a driver at one of our most successful fundraisers, which is the ‘Ride the Racetrack’ event,” said Barber. Over 400 people paid $15 in advance or $20 the day of the event, March 9, to take a two-lap spin around Sebring International Raceway in this year’s “30th Annual Ride the Racetrack,” with all of the money going to benefit the Chamber. Cars for the event were donated by Terry Earwood and the Skip Barber Racing School. “I’ve been involved with the Chamber Ride for about seven years, since I was with Skip Barber,” said Dean, who was an instructor for the racing school for about 10 years before joining the pro-circuit.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

A seasoned driver who grew up watching his father, John Dean, Sr., race and work on precision cars at the Checkered Flag, Dean founded Sick Sideways three years ago.

Celebrating the win.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Capt. Ron’s Mercantile • American made The big guys have Se br lots of items... Greeting Cards 99¢ a n d F loi ng I have that one S o u ve n r id a • Sebring Post cards i rs . unique special gift! • Magazines • Novelties • Gifts 101 Cirle Park Drive • Team Logo Items Downtown Sebring • Nautical Home Decor 863-658-1681 • Sunny Puppets Open Late Thursdays till 8 pm • Garden and Banner Flags www.capt-rons-online.com

Thank You Sebring

Dean’s father was also known as the “Voice of Sebring,” doing the radio commentaries from the 12 Hours Sebring for 21 years. John, who is currently considering an offer to host a radio show on racing, spoke of his dad with admiration, “He did the full race broadcast. It takes a special person to talk for 12 hours about a race. He was a driver, so a lot of drivers had respect for him and came up to the booth.” But it was actually his mother, Sandra Beck Dean, a former middle school teacher that loved drag racing who encouraged John’s passion for speed. “I’ve been driving go carts since I was 10. But, you learn it’s not just all fun. I had to fund my own racing; that is why I started the company,” said the 33 year-old. “We went from a small team to a pro-team overnight.”

Thanks to all the Sponsors and Volunteers who make the 12 Hours of Sebring successful! Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Not only has Sick Sideways earned a reputation as winners, their facility at 518 Maple Avenue in Sebring offers custom car builds, driver enhancement training, trackside support, rentals, car storage, repair and transportation. “It has been a lot of hard work by a lot of people to get us our success,” Dean acknowledged.

Antiques - Pottery - Glass Music and Sports Memorabilia Bottle Cap Art - Florida Art - Candles Jewelry and Accessories Antique Clocks and Watches Jams - Syrups - BBQ Sauce Texas Olive Oil Amish Handmade Baskets Gene Albritton-Earth Art Vintage Golf Memorabilia

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The core team consists of drivers Dean and Sparks, lead technician Andrew Krucker, technician David Coggen, coach and driver Glenn Howle, and Priscilla Preece. Priscilla, who earned a Bachelor of Science in business from South Florida State College, is an administrative assistant at Samaritan’s Touch Care Center in Sebring as well as helping with public relations and advertising for Sick Sideways. John met Priscilla when he moved to the Ocala area with his mother and started middle school, but after graduation the two lost touch. Eleven years later, he found her on Facebook, and they’ve been together ever since. Sitting on a comfortable sectional in their newly remodeled home on Lake Sebring, Dean playfully wrestled with “Ookie,” his Chihuahua, as he talked about his family. “Our little guy is awesome,” said the proud father of their two-and-a-half year-old son, John “Colin” Dean III, who John affectionately nicknamed “Baby J.” They are also parents to Priscilla’s adopted sons, Nathan, who just turned

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Celebrating on the winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s platform. (L-R) Kenton Koch, second place; John Dean II, winner and Dean Copeland, third place.

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Dean with his family: Son Colin (being held by Dean), (L-R) Nathan, Priscilla and Russel Preece.

12 and 10 year-old Russel Preece. “They are really good kids,” remarked Dean. On Friday, March 21, Dean along with other area drivers took their cars to the Discovery Kids Learning Center in downtown Sebring where his son goes to preschool. The drivers signed autographs, posed for pictures and allowed the children to sit in their race cars. “It’s all about doing something fun for these kids,” said Dean. The Sick Sideways team was also commemorated this year when famed artist James R. Hahn featured Dean’s car in one of the final sections of “The Trend at the Track Mural” on the walls of the E-Stone plant located in the Sebring Regional Airport industrial park. The painting, titled “Winners Wall,” was added around the corner from the original 11 foot by 312 foot mosaic depicting scenes from the iconic 12 hour endurance race in both daylight and dark that was commissioned by the Trend Group and completed before last year’s race.

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Whether it is coaching racers on fun and stress-free “track days” or running all-out during aggressive competitions like the Atlanta Petit Le Mans, Dean loves both the camaraderie and adrenaline rush of the sport. “It is not that I want to win so bad, I hate losing,” said Dean. ¢

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Citrus Labels & Crate Expectations Art Exhibit Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA)

The Highlands Art League’s Museum of the Arts’ newest exhibit, “Citrus Labels and Crate Expectations,” officially opened on Mar. 6 with a ribbon cutting by Sebring Mayor George Hensley and is on display at the museum through May 31. This contemporary exhibit includes a collection of 24 citrus labels which represent thousands used in Florida between the late 1800s and the 1960s. These labels decorated the ends of wooden crates that transported Florida citrus, live citrus trees, citrus equipment and tools. The exhibit was hung by local artist Hector Nieblas. MOTA is open from 1-7 pm on Thursday. and Friday and 1-4 PM on Saturday. Admission is free for HAL members, students with proper ID and children under 12. There is a $5 per person admission for adults who are not HAL members. For more information, event details and HAL membership opportunities, please visit the Highlands Art League website at www.HighlandsArtLeague.org or call (863) 385-5312.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

863-385-6654 Dedicated to Providing Exceptional Customer Service and Bringing the Best Quality Products and Values Around.

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Save money while you shop at 35+ Downtown Sebring merchants with items including: gifts, jewelry, art, attractions, dining, beauty, clothing, music/band, lodging, flowers, services, bicycle, books, gardening, home decor, furniture and more! Support your local economy & small business owners

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Fourth Annual Avon Park Blueberry & Bluegrass Festival

Sat., April 26, 2014 - 10 am to 4 pm Local Blueberries Blueberry Products BBQ Chicken Dinners Blueberry Lemonade ARTS AND ORIGINAL CRAFTS VENDORS 2 Area Bluegrass Bands Kids Zone Blueberry Bake-Off Blueberry Muffin Eating Contests

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“We Perform For You” Motherhood Out Loud

APRIL 11th - 13th 13 - A New Musical May 9th - 11th

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Custom Screen Printing and Embroidery

April May 2014

239 N. Ridgewood Dr. - Sebring, FL 33870

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HighlandLittleTheatre.org

Wilbur Robertson of Robertson Farms.

Events like Slice of Life are just one of the many reasons why families stay in Hardee County for generations. On Mar. 29 downtown Wauchula held its 2014 Slice of Life in Main Street Heritage Park. There were local vendors, ranchers, home grown favorite exhibits. The rain held off for everyone to boot scoot and boogie to “The Pick Up Artists Band”. Lots of yummy food was enjoyed as well as shopping at all the local downtown merchants. The term heard was they “shopped till they drooped”. Hardee County’s heritage is as vibrant as a Florida grown orange and as sweet as a fresh strawberry. Photos courtesy of Main Street Wauchula. Two young boys check out the tractor.

(Above) Jamie Lang buying Mrs. Jane’s jellies. (Below left) BJ Johnson admiring the bottle-fed calves. Shoppers enjoy the beautiful day.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Samantha Burnett and son Jase.

(Below right) Horse trailer decked out with longhorn skulls.

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

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

First Class Fashions for Women & Men plus Home Decor

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Watermelon Festival Saturday, May 17th 9 am to 4 pm in Veteranʻs Park

Formal WearAvailable Available Formal&&Bridal Bridal Wear

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Desoto County Watermelon Pageants

Food and Entertainment Arts and Crafts Watermelon Contests Kids Korner Wacky River Race Vendors Wanted! Information and Application can be found on website.

DeSoto Middle School: Princess - May 8 at 7pm Jubliee/Queen - May 9 at at 7pm At the Festival: Sugar Babe - May 17 at 9 am Crimson Sweet - May 17 at 1 pm

www.arcadiamainstreet.com

Call for more information.

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“Your Full Service Home and Termite Inspection Company” If you are buying a home our pre-purchase home inspection will give you a better idea of the condition of the home. Sunshine has completed over 5000 home inspections in Highlands County.

Jimmie Fuller

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Norma Fuller

Owner and office manager

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Jonathan Fuller

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Decorations by committee Joy Salinder and Jennifer Lipowski.

This table supported and enjoyed this special event.

CEO Champion for Children Kevin Roberts and wife Debbie.

(L-R) Committee chairs Jennifer Lipowski and Joy Salinder.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Above (L-R) Amy Zwayer, daughter Molly Jane and Suzy Phillips. (Left) The Lucus Family with Kevin and Debbie Roberts.

Cups of Love High Tea

By Cindy Sebring Adams Photos by Jessica Adams

Champion for Children Foundation held the inaugural Cups of Love High Tea to benefit the AWE-tistic Child initiative at the Circle Theatre in downtown Sebring. Committee chairs Joy Salinder and Jennifer Lipowski are avid advocates for the autistic children in the community and are working to build assistance for these children and families. The theatre was filled with over 100 guests tasting the finest teas and specialty foods catered by The Tea Room. A fashion show, featuring fashion from local boutiques, was narrated by Martile Blackman, raising awareness, acceptance and how we can offer assistance to children and families suffering with autism. Guest speakers Bryce Lucas and his father Rich Lucas from Ft. Lauderdale spoke about what it is like to live with autism and over come it. Bryce shared that he was asked in middle school why aren’t you normal and he replied, “normal is over rated, why not be extraordinary”. “One in 88 children suffer from some form of autism. One in 56 of those with autism is a boy. The condition is much more prevalent in males than it is in females,” said Lipowski. Gary and Melissa Duffey from Sebring attended the event with their daughter Makayla who was diagnosed with autisms in 2008. Gary shared his book he wrote and illustrated, Windows, a children’s book inspired by Makayla in hope of raising funds and bringing awareness to the community. The book reached number one on the Abbott Press top sellers list, with a portion of the proceeds going to Authors Against Autism (a nonprofit organization the Duffeys founded to help families who struggle with children suffering from autism) For more information about the book email gduffey67@gmail.com. “We don’t really have a number for children suffering from autism in this community,” said Salinder. “That’s something we are trying to work on. Champion for Children Foundation and the Awe-tistic committee are using the Cups of Love High Tea as a starting point to raise funds in order to help families and children who suffer with the condition. For more information on autism awareness or if you know a child who you think may be suffer from autism please contact Lipowski at 214-3674 or by email jenniferlipowski@yahoo.com.

Heartland LIVING

(Above) Gary and Melissa Duffy with daughter Makayla. (Right) Joy and Kristin Salinder.

April May 2014

By Bridgette Waldau

Art

ShowcasingT he Arts

museums have a special place in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s society. A fine art museum or gallery offers us an open, eye appealing space where visitors can view and appreciate art. Museums are so important to us on many levels. Art museums can showcase the history of a particular culture in a visual fashion. Exhibits can provide a window to the past. The visual history offers a picture of what life was like at a particular period of time. The art may also help to explain the social and political environment at the time the artwork was made. A display may also showcase the viewpoint of a certain period of time through the eyes of the artist. A fine art museum also is a cultural go-to place within a city. A certain showing will attract art lovers and tourists to both the art museum and the city. Attracting tourists to the museum has been shown to boost the local economy. For example art lovers also eat at local restaurants, attend live shows and stay in hotels. As a direct outcome, this boosts the local economy and in turn, creates more local jobs.

South Florida State College Museum of Florida Art.

Polk Museum of Art

Another purpose of art museums is to promote art and artists. Whether the artists are emerging talent or already established, art museum and galleries both identify talent and support this talent to the public. The public will be introduced to different perspectives and ways of thinking through the viewing of the art. Attendees may also be encouraged to endorse a specific cause, modify their way of thinking or even design their own works of art. Without a doubt, art museums educate children, youth and adults alike. We can read about art and a certain period of time in history in books or online, however it can be more meaningful to see the art and artifacts in person. Several research studies show that people with firsthand experience remember information more than people who simply read about it in a book.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Highlands Museum of the Arts

In addition, many art museums and galleries offer tours and even art classes to the general public. Art classes work to educate a new generation of art appreciators and artists alike. Art museums contribute greatly to humanity, whether it is economically or through art appreciation and education. Support the arts in your community by visiting your local galleries and museums. It promised to be a rewarding and educational experience. Â˘

Art exhibit of Hector Nieblas shown at Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA).

Tania Urrelys

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Free General Admission Vendors, live music by The Landsharks Band, food & beer Limited Number of Wine Tasting & Culinary Demonstration Tickets Available $25 pre-purchase (first 100 get Swag Bag) Tickets sold at Dogtown USA

Artwork of Hector Nieblas shown at Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA).

Downtown Sebring - Circle Park Saturday, May 10 10 AM - 4 PM

(112 N. Ridgewood Drive in Downtown Sebring)

or at www.GirlsGoneWineFest.com A portion of the proceeds from this event benefits the Champion for Children Foundation and the Getaway Girl Foundation.

BridgetteWaldau Studio of Art presents:

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Embrace Your Inner Artist

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

Private studio teaching you how to paint step-by-step in a relaxed and fun setting. It's the perfect place to get together, unwind and enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage. Okeechobee’s Original Paint and Sip Studio Give the gift of Art - Gift Certiﬁcates Available Call or go online for more information and to sign up. Private Group Sessions Also Available. New sessions posted on facebook.

Located in The Art Cottage with Fawn’s Studio and Fine Framing by Debra Flowers! www.facebook.com/BridgetteStudio

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

The Little Yellow Cottage on the Corner

111 NE 2nd Street - Suite A

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Woman Woman Taylor Reneé Fulford

By Bridgette Waldau

In 2012, Taylor Fulford decided to try out the world of pageantry, despite the fact that she suffered from Type 1 diabetes. After being first diagnosed at the age of 14 Fulford really struggled with the disease. Little did she know at the time what the pageant experience would do for her selfesteem and her growth as an individual. Her journey began when she entered the 2012 Miss Okeechobee County Fair Teen USA pageant and won. This title took her to the state level, Miss Florida Teen USA, where she placed in the top 16 out of 75 contestants. She used her platform to bring awareness to juvenile diabetes. Her confidence continued to grow when she entered the 2013 Miss Treasure Coast USA pageant and took home the title. Fulford qualified for the Miss Florida USA pageant and excelled again by placing in the top 16 out of 72 contestants. Fulford’s experience in this complex pageant world has been a positive one for her. “It was not only an honor, but the experience of a lifetime. I have grown so much as an individual because of pageantry, “ she explains. When meeting Fulford, her outward beauty and grace is undeniable, but her real beauty lies beneath. She has worked hard to educate the public about Type 1 diabetes. “That diagnosis I don’t see as an obstacle but more as a badge of courage. One I wear proudly,” states Fulford. Soon after winning her fist title, she started Okeechobee’s first JDRF Walk to Cure and raised over $11,000. She is now in the beginning stages of starting a pageant called “Crowns for Cure” where all proceeds will go to JDRF. Fulford also took her experience

Photo by Ehricka Wallace

and gift to another level. She became a very important mentor to many young girls interested in pageantry. She was a true inspiration to one Okeechobee girl, Destani Whaley. Whaley entered the 2013 Little Miss Okeechobee pageant but had a lack of confidence due to her own disability. Understanding the need to overcome adversity, especially at such a young age, Fulford encouraged Whaley with something that will stay with the young girl for the rest of her life. Fulford’s words that inspired her was “To take her disability and make it an ability and use it to inspire others. Everything happens for a reason that only God knows, but when we trust in him we cannot fail.” Whaley won the title that year and the bond between this young girl and the beauty queen continues to grow to this day. Fulford continues to not only encourage and inspire others with her story, but learns from and is inspired by other people’s stories as well. She thinks that is one of the best rewards of being a queen. Fulford attends college at IRSC and plans to become a Children’s Life Specialist. ¢

Pictured with Fulford is Destani Whaley on the night she won 2013 Little Miss Okeechobee County Fair. On March 9, Whaley passed on her crown to a new Little Miss. Whaley expressed gratitude to her mentor and friend in her farewell message.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

“Taylor Fulford, thank you for guiding me, you are the greatest mentor, coach and friend ever. You have taught me so much about life and determination. The night that you told me ‘Make your disabilities your Abilities’, it clicked and at that very moment you turned my world around and made me believe in myself. God has blessed you with a heart that shines brightly. Your inner beauty is beyond compare and your beauty on the outside completes you. Helen Keller said, ‘The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched...but are felt in the heart’. I love you to the moon and far beyond.” Photo courtesy of Okeechobee County Fair.

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Baby & Bridal Showers Weddings Special Events Business Meeting Holiday Parties

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Heartland Heroes

By Cindy Sebring Adams

When a Student Mob is a Good Thing On Saturday, Mar. 1, nearly 100 Sebring High School International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme and National Honor Society (NHA) student’s invaded the Highlands Art League (HAL) to host the community’s inaugural organized Care Mob. Students spent the day donating their time and efforts to clean, paint, mulch, pressure wash and landscape the four buildings that make up the HAL’s Art Village. This helped to beautify the Village, the local community and the Downtown Sebring Allen Altvater Cultural Center, which is located on the shores of Lake Jackson. The goal of the Student Care Mob was to promote community caring, awareness of HAL and the importance of art and culture in our local community. The timing and audience were perfect, as the art complex had been undergoing renovation of three of the four buildings since 2002 with the final house fully renovated at the end of March. One of the houses, the Clovelly House, is designated as the ‘teen’ house, which will provide art education to our community’s pre-teen and teen population. Plus, the students were able to spruce up the Art Village just in time for its Grand Opening on April 5. Supplies were donated for the clean up from the community from paint, mulch and irrigation all the way to yard tools with a special thanks to Marmer Construction, Scosta Supply/Porter Paints, Edgewood Landscaping and Palmer Ace Hardware, as well as the dozen of adult volunteers and school officials who provided their time and financial contribution to this event. These students are not strangers to giving back to their community. In 2013, several Sebring High School IB students “cash-mobbed” a downtown Sebring deli to promote supporting local businesses. By using social media, they invited their friends and family to dine at the deli that day. The experience provided them the opportunity to learn about social media marketing through Twitter and Facebook while rewarding a business that donates generously to the school.

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

The completion of the Art Village will help HAL further the organization’s mission: “to encourage emerging and evolving artists of all ages and to positively impact our community through the celebration and exploration of the arts.” The Highlands Art League’s ‘Village Where Art Lives’ consists of four buildings: The Yellow House Gallery & Gift Shop features studio artists and members’ gallery; the Visual Arts Center houses a variety of art classes for children and adults; the Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA) features curated exhibits, art competitions and receptions; and the Clovelly House that will house the organization’s preteen and teen art education programs and classes. For more information about the Highlands Art League, visit www.HighlandsArtLeague.org, call (863) 385-5312 or email Info@HighlandsArtLeague.org.

Cow Pie's is like walking back in time to a simpler, slower paced lifestyle.

Homemade Take Out Deli Sandwiches Soups and Salads Made Fresh To Order Frozen Custard- Ice Cream | Unique Gifts

863-659-1445

212 CR 621 East - Lake Placid, FL 33852

Monday - Friday 11 am - 7 pm Saturday 11 am - 5:30 pm

Customized Wellness Functional Medicine | Natural Health Practice The only advanced fellowship trained and board certified provider in Highlands County in anti-aging, regenerative and functional medicine. 8 Years of Women’s Health Experience

Amanda Lucero

ARNP-C, FAARFM, ABAAHP

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Salivary Hormone Testing | Allergy Testing | Nutrient Testing Pharmaceutical Grade Nutritional Supplements/Vitamins

863-471-0995 Open Monday and Friday | Some Saturdays

Therapeutic and Relaxation Massages Wednesday and Friday Art of Massage- Sarah Ramer # MM27930

Natural Approach to Health and Happiness. 2914 Kenilworth Blvd. Sebring FL 33870

email: customized.wellness@yahoo.com

Big City Medicine with Small Town Care… Leslie G. Copeland, CT Clinical Thermograhpher

Knowledge

ife Imaging

Providing high quality Thermograhphic images using a state of the art Infrared camera. These images provide information that is valuable for early detection of potential inflammation and disease processes. Early detection allows for prevention and a commitment to a healthy body.

Breast Screening

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(863) 314-9000

2914 Kenilworth Blvd. Sebring, FL. 33870

Heartland LIVING

Full Body Screening

Website: knowledge4lifeimaging.com

Email: knowledge4lifeimaging@gmail.com

April May 2014

Healthy Heartland By Nathan Kalin

Spring Forward with a Healthy Mind

The

information age is surging with new technologies and devices that allow us to accomplish more tasks, research information quicker, and stay connected longer than ever before. Too much of anything, however, can have dangerous consequences. The most common drawback experienced by millions of Americans today is the inability to unplug from our devices. By staying connected via our telephones, laptops, music devices, and tablets, our minds are literally trying to process terabytes of information with one major downside: our brains are not computers. Our brains are the tools that are supposed to be operating the machines we have in our lives, but as of late many Americans have found that our devices are actually running the show. This phenomenon has become so pervasive that Time Magazine recently published an article on how to “un-plug.” The three most practical tips they offered to help reduce mental-stress are: Wear a Watch, No Phones in Bed and Get into Nature. Why a Watch? The concept is pretty simple. Most people’s phones double as their phonebook, their music Heartland log , t h ei r favorLIVING ite apps, and their watch. If you wear a April watch on your wrist, May 2014 you will be less likely to constantly look at your watch for the time and plug back in to the never ending data stream.

Not in the Bed: This tip essentially asks you to stop using your phone as your alarm clock. The first thing you do in the morning should be to open your eyes, think about the strange dreams you had, and get out of bed. It should not be to hit the off button on your cell phone and immediately t h r u s t y o u r mind into the tasks and problems of the outside world. Take a Hike: There is a serenity and equilibrium in nature that is impossible to duplicate in the digital world. Take a few moments to go outside, watch the sunset or the approaching storm; resist the urge to Instagram it. ¢

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

Voted Highlands Best Coffee Now at 2 Locations!

863-314-8890 Specialty Coffee Lattes Frappuccino Fresh Roasted Convenient Drive-Thru

2191 US Hwy 27 N Sebring, FL 33870 Florida Joint and Spine Institute

6325 US Hwy 27 N Sebring, FL 33870

Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 6:30 am ~ 11:00 pm | Friday 6:30 am ~ 5:30 am Saturday - Closed Until Sunset | Sunday 8:00 am ~ 8:00 pm

Family Owned & Operated

863-212-0254 A boutique for 2 & 4 legged friends!

Mobile Detaling Cars - Trucks - Boats - RVs - Semi-Trucks Residential & Commercial Pressure Washing Offering a variety of packages to fit your vehicle needs and our rates are very reasonable. We also offer fleet services. Serving Highlands County, Hardee County and Polk County Area

● Local Retailer of FROMM and Nutri-Source ● Pet Art by Local Artists ● Spa products, clothing, toys, bedding, home decor items and more! ● Full Grooming Service! Call for Appointment.

All treats and food made in the USA Mon. - Fri. 10am - 5:30pm | Sat. 9am - 3pm

112 N. Ridgewood Drive In Historic Downtown Sebring

(863) 402-0083

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

By Cindy Sebring Adams

Springtime Wines

Refreshing spring wines! Nothing enhances casual spring times on the deck, boat, beach, around the pool, at a picnic or just enjoying our gorgeous Florida weather as does a chilled light wine. You want a spring wine that reflects the presence of the season. Things like crisp breezes, cool rain showers, sunny days, and perfuming flowers should accent your wine. We are sharing in this column six wines that could come along for all your spring picnics and summer events.

Chardonnay

Sauvignon/Fumé Blanc

Pinot Gris/ Grigio

Chenin Blanc

Flavors: Green apple, citrus, pineapple and papaya. Versatile and popular, chardonnay grows all over the world. It is an excellent pick for a picnic. It gives you a feeling of radiant and bright. By itself, young chardonnay is most likely to recall fresh green apples in both smell and flavor. Depending upon the wine maker, it can be made to be crisp and stony, buttery and toasty, or brilliantly fresh with green apple and citrus flavors.

Flavors: Citrus, fresh pear and melon. Pinot Grigio is a dry wine compared to other white wines. It’s a fruity wine that gives off the impression of a springtime beverage. Its alter ego, Pinot Gris (same grape, different name), produces lively, pear-flavored wines that may carry a hint of fruity sweetness. It’s excellent with cheese and sandwiches.

Pinot Blanc

Flavors: Green apple and citrus. The Pinot Blanc is a light and fruity type of white wine that resembles the Chardonnay, but is a bit dryer with a more apple than citrus flavor. Heartland The Pinot Blanc is a neutral LIVING white wine with a high acidity, which makes this type of April white wine very neutral for May 2014 many food pairings and will generally pair with most mild spiced meals.

Flavors: Grass, herb, citrus, pineapple and peach. Sauvignon Blanc is a dry, crisp wine with an herbal, grassy smell for your nose. It is a good choice, and you do not need an aged Sauvignon Blanc for your picnic; this wine is best if it’s young. This also means less expense to your pocketbook. It does well in widely diverse parts of the world, and is something of a chameleon grape that can deliver interesting flavors across a wide spectrum of ripeness.

Flavors: Ripe apple, lemon drop, pear and honeydew. Chenin Blanc is a light-bodied white wine similar to Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc. What makes Chenin Blanc wine unique is its ability to taste amazing either as a sweet or dry wine. Chenin Blanc is a versatile zesty white wine that pairs particularly well with Mediterranean food, sushi and even hearty meats like veal.

Sémillon

Flavors: Fig, melon and light herb. Like Sauvignon Blanc, its frequent blending mate, Sémillon can make a fine, bone-dry white wine, notable for its texture and softly grassy aromas, or it can be late-harvested, shriveled with botrytis, and turned into some of the world’s greatest dessert wines. Though low in acid, Sémillons are wines that can age nicely and take on added layers of subtle spice and herb. Young taste Sémillons of figs and melons, adding leafy notes as they age. ¢

Florida Fence Post Co., Inc. 5251 State Road 64 West/ P.O. Box 645 Ona, Florida 33865

1-863-735-1361

1-800-580-1019

Serving Central Florida since 1946.

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

863-386-1177

Cash Discounts F.O.B. Ona, Florida 25 Year Limited Guarantee “Branded for Your Protection”

Additional Store Location

Lake Placid Feed & Western Wear 417 US Hwy 27 South Lake Placid, Florida 33852

935 Sebring Square - Sebring, FL

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

Southern Recipes by Layne Prescott

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4 medium zu 1 small swe cchini 1-2 cups s Wash z ucchini ea Salt & Pep et onion 1 and rem slice zu -2 cups As soned bread crumb p e r to cchini a o ta s v s te e ends, p 1 pint Hea iago Cheese nd onio at dry. v n. y C re a U m sing a m Spray 9 andolin x (or sim crumbs 9 baking dish ply slice , arrange asiago cheese with butter sp thinly) r , a z a y u n . c d c Layer zu hini and Drizzle cheese cch he on , then b read cr ion slices dec avy cream. Co ini, season, sp umbs. orative ly. Top ntinue layerin rinkle bread Bake at g. layer on 350 deg ly, drizz On top layer, rees for le cream approxim first, ately 30 minute s or unti l golden and bub bly.

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Mama’s C

Heartland LIVING April May 2014

gar 3 Cups su ) Dash salt illa extract (pure n a V . s a te 2

ggs 6 large e e flour k 3 Cups ca

ftened) arine (so d) rg a m p u ene 1C tter (soft ened) ½ Cup bu am cheese (soft re c z o nilla. 1–8 and va mix well. pan. lt e a s b u d t r Ad ur – nd Flou t well. ach. Add flo a a e e s B a . e s e t Gr redien ll after our ing , beating we f t s r fi e e rs. ). Combin s one at a tim an (10” ours to 2 hou g p g e e b d u t Ad 1 1/2 h oured d and fl 00 degrees – e s a e r g 3 Place in COLD oven – springs back. in it e n c he Pla done w Cake is

Mam Cream a’s Che Poundc ese ake

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

d i n i n g GUIDE Cang Tong Japanese Steak House + Sushi + Chinese Enjoy dining in a casual comfortable atmosphere at our new location with a new menu. Personal Chefs prepare your meal the way you want it, right at your table. Try our unique variety of sushi rolls including everyone’s favorite roll the OMG, it consists of spicy salmon and avocado topped with avocado and sweet delicious mango. We also have a wide variety of Chinese specialties. Come visit us for a fun experience and a melt in your mouth taste. Take-out or Delivery and Catering | Menu Highlights: Daily Sushi Roll specials, Hibachi Filet Mignon and Lobster, Sesame Chicken, Lo Mein, Fried Cheesecake. Hours: Sun. - Thurs. 11:30 am – 9:30 pm, Fri. and Sat. 11:30 am –10:30 pm. 110 Sebring Square | Sebring | 863.386.1924 | www.CangTongSebring.com See ad on page 8.

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 Sat. 3 pm - 11 pm. Call for Live Entertainment Schedule. 18 East Main Street | Avon Park | 863.453.1818 | Downtown Avon Park www.beststeakaround.com See ad on page 58.

Heartland area’s finest restaurants 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: Mon. – Sat. 11 am – 8 pm Sunset Dining: Mon. – Thurs. and Sat. 3:30 pm - 7 pm Sunday: Bar Service and Light Sandwiches from 11 am – 5 pm *Beginning May 1st the restaurant will be closed for lunch and dinner service on Monday’s. The bar will be open with light sandwiches and service until 5:30 pm Sunset Dining will be Tuesday – Saturday from 3:30 -7:00 pm. Call 863-382-1191 for reservations. 5223 Sun N Lake Blvd.| Sebring | 863-382-1191| www.IslandViewRestaurant.com

Papa John’s Pizza At Papa John’s we strive to create great dining experiences through authentic, superior-quality products, legendary customer service and exceptional community service. We pride ourselves in providing a menu that’s prepared with only the finest ingredients from fresh vegetables to our never frozen, hand-tossed original dough and superior-quality tomato sauce. We are committed to exceeding your expectations. Family Style Restaurant | Take -Out| Food Delivery Service Hours: Open 7 Days 11 am - 11 pm | Carry out 11 am - 9:40 pm Locally Owned, GeoDev Pizza, Inc. by George A. Hall and Devon P. Donaldson 935 Sebring Sq. | Sebring | 863-386-1177| www.papajohns.com See ad on page 79

Heartland 12 April 18 April 18 April 19 April 19 April 19 April 19 April 19 April 20 April 20 April 22 April 24 April 25 April 25 April 26 April 26 April

C A L E N D A R OF

Community Easter Egg Hunt 11 am | Lake Placid Football Field | Lake Placid The Green Celebration 6 pm – 9:30 pm | Lake Mirror Promenade | Lakeland Gala of the Royal Horses 7 pm – 10 pm | Turner Center | Arcadia Downtown Sebring Community Sidewalk Sale 7 am - 1 pm | Downtown Sebring | 863-382-2649 Azalea Festival 9 am – 3 pm | Mosaic Park |Bartow | Info: 863-533-7125 Sandy Foster Memorial/NU-HOPE Golf Tournament Pinecrest Golf Club | Avon Park | Laurie Murphy 863-382-2134 Color Craze 5K 2014 - Run Walk for Life Hosted by: The Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee Music in the Park – Highlands Hammock State Park 7 pm – 9 pm | Performance by Rick Arnold | Sebring Easter Community Sunrise Service 6 am – 7 pm | Turner Center | Arcadia 42 Annual Kiwanis Easter Pancake Breakfast Kiwanis of Okeechobee event | Easter Sunday 7 am - 10 am | Cowboys Restaurant | Okeechobee Celebrate Earth Day 2014 11:30 am |Sadie Kahn Park | Downtown Sebring HCCGA Golf Day at Pinecrest Golf Club Avon Park | Registration: 863-385-8091 Florida Hospital Heartland Clay Shoot Quail Creek Plantation | 863-402-5525 | Okeechobee Lakeland Derby-Lakeland Volunteers In Medicine 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm | Lake Mirror Complex Amphitheater & Promenade Big Brothers Big Sisters Clays for Kids 8 am – 1 pm | Square One Sporting Clays | Lake Placid Info: Kiko Vazquez 863-402-9001 4th Annual Bluegrass Blueberry Festival 10 am – 4 pm | Donaldson Park | Avon Park

Community Events April Weekends Friday & Saturday – Story of Noah

7:30 pm | Wauchula Cattlemen’s Area | Wauchula | 863-375-4031

3 May 9 May 9-10 May 17 May 17 May

Monthly

Arcadia’s Olde Town Market 1st Saturday of the month. 8 am | Tree of Knowledge Park next to Oak Park Inn | Arcadia Sebring Downtown – Wine Walk & Shop 5 pm – 8 pm www.sebringcruise.com Sebring Cruise - Downtown Circle | 2nd Saturday 5 pm – 8 pm Lake Placid – Lake Country Cruisers Car Show 2nd Friday – 5 pm – 8 pm | Platter’s Restaurant parking lot Bartow Saturday Market | 3rd Saturday of the month 9 am – 2 pm | Ft. Blount Park | Bartow Highlands County Fairgrounds – “Firemen’s Flea Market Every Friday & Saturday 8 am – 2 pm | Info: 863-382-2255 Lake Wales Downtown Farmer’s Market | 2nd & 4th Saturday 9 am – 1 pm | Market Square - Stuart Ave. & Park Ave. | Lake Wales Sebring Citrus Labels & Crate Expectations Exhibit April 1 – May 31 | Sebring “Country Life” Art Exhibit | Featuring Okeechobee Artists Presented by Okeechobee Main Street’s Arts and Culture Committee April 24 - May 16 | Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm Historical Okeechobee County Courthouse

Details May Be Subject to Change.

Want to announce your Community Event? Email us at cindy@heartland-living.com.

April | May

2014

Advertisers Index

9 21st Century Oncology 56 All Around Septic & Sewer 63 Alpha Natural Food Co. 67 Amanda Armentrout 63 America First A/C & Heating 63 Avon Park Rotary Blueberry Festival 56 Bill Jarrett Ford 31 Blinds ASAP 63 Boner’s Outfitters 77 Brewster’s Coffee House 71 Bridgette’s Studio of Art 73 Budget Bi-Rite Insurance

22 Mobility Express 32 MOTO Crate Expectation Exhibit

58 Eighteen East 61 Eldridge Design Center 5 Everglades Pediatric Dentistry 79 88 46-47 22 61

79 Papa Johns Pizza 77 Paul’s Plantscape 73 Pink Pineapple Catering 59 Pure Grit & Boot Company

Florida Fence Post Florida Hospital Health Partners Florida Hospital Heartland Food for Thought Frames & Images

65 Quail Creek Plantation 79 Rafael Pacheco Photography 77 Residence Inn 71 Roden + Fields Dermatologists

61 Galleria 301 7 GB’s Formal Wear 71 Girls Gone Wild Festival

8 Cang Tong Restaurant 56 Captain Ron Merchantile 31 Caroline Maxcy Photography 58 Changes Unlimited 44 Chen Dental Center 62 Cornerstone Hospice 75 Cow Pie’s Country Store 21 Crown Pointe Communities 42 CSA Design Group 75 Customized Wellness, LLC & Knowledge4Life

57 67 32 66 63 31 87 2 77

32 The Bulb Bin 57 The Daisy Girl Shop 35 USA Mobile Drug Testing 67 Wauchula State Bank 51 Women’s Health

66 Kathy’s Consignment

82-83 DINING GUIDE

21 Laye’s Tire Service

23,81 David E. Willey, DMD 66 Desoto Watermelon Festival 77 Dogtown USA 59 Domers, Inc. 42 Dragon’s Basin Bass Fishing

45 Saddle Up Ride-A-Thon 62 Sebring Downtown CRA 63 Signature Floors & Design 66 Sunshine Inspections

Heacock Insurance Heartland LIVING Heartland National Bank Heartland Pharmacy Highlands Little Theatre Highlands Master Jeweler Highlands Medical Group Highlands Regional Medical Hydro Clean Solutions

65 3 62 65

Mark Palmer Electric and A/C MidFlorida Credit Union Miller’s Central Air Miss Cindy’s Garden

Heartland

LIVING

Cang Tong Restaurant Eighteen East Island View Restaurant Papa Johns Pizza

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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.

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Pictured from left to right: Donald Ware, D.O. Family Practice 863-471-3500

L. Francisco Espaillat, M.D. General Surgery & Comprehensive Breast Surgeon 863-382-6108

M. Braimah Saaka, M.D. Vascular Surgery

Kevin Robinson, M.D. Ears, Nose, Throat 863-402-1970

Robert Midence, M.D. Internal Medicine 863-386-4302

Jessica Narvaez-Lugo, M.D. Gastroenterology & Hepatology 863-385-1045

863-314-0141

Euclides Marmolejos-Baez, M.D. Internal Medicine 863-386-4302

Tahir S. Chaudhri, M.D. Orthopedic Surgery 863-314-9308

Kwabena Pobi, M.D. Urology 863-382-2576

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Heartland LIVING April May 2014

87 All providers accept most insurances for services. Accepting New Patients.