Heartland LIVING October |November 2015
Your Lifestyle Community Magazine
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Letter From
THE PUBLISHER A nother season has come and gone and if you’re
PUBLISHER
like me I’m ready for the crispy fall weather that is approaching. The summer has been a messy hot one to say the least. I’m thankful for all the rain but my yard and pasture shows that enough is enough. I know the weather has been a personal challenge but it’s been a real challenge for our farmers and ranchers. We are ready for the cooler weather so you can enjoy all the fall festivals in the Heartland. Heartland LIVING is always striving to raise the bar for quality to the magazine and we feel we have done just that by being honored to have writer Jennifer Goodson join our team. Jennifer opens this issue with our first feature story capturing the journey of artist Peter Powell Roberts. The legacy of Robert’s life is nothing short of inspiring. Thanks to Fred Leavitt, president of the Heartland Cultural Alliance, for sharing Roberts’s self-portrait which graces our cover. Angelo Mario Masi has been and continues to be an inspirational force in the Okeechobee area. For 37 years, on any given day, the community of Okeechobee has witnessed Angelo walking the streets sharing his ministry. Masi walks tall in his lifelong journey of spreading the word of hope and love. We hope you enjoy reading of his worldly travels and ministry work. We had writer Patricia Pond join us this issue to share the monitoring program of the Lakewatch volunteers that have been working since 1991 to maintain and improve the quality of our lakes in Highlands County. With the popularity of our lakes, it is important to keep them in great shape and we have these wonderful people to thank for their improvement efforts. Heartland LIVING was honored to receive four awards from the Florida Magazine Association at the 62nd Annual Charlie Awards Banquet during the Publishing Conference and Expo at the Omni Orlando Resort at Champions Gate. The awards went to our creative art director Bridgette Waldau. I’m so proud to have such a talented designer to work with and who has been my inspiration from the creation of Heartland LIVING. Congratulations Bridgette and I look forward to many more awards to come. I’m ending this publisher’s note from my heart. I never care about having my picture taken, but you can tell by my smile from the photo here in my publisher’s note; I’m a very proud Grandmama (GiGi) to my granddaughter Finley Grace. I feel very blessed to be able to work side by side with my daughter and Editor Jessica everyday who is bringing so much talent to the magazine. Finley is our pride and joy and our little assistant that rules the office. She is my ray of sunshine that comes through my door every morning. God has blessed me beyond measure. God Bless,
Cindy Sebring Adams
A grandchild is a blessing. A gift from above, A precious little angel To cherish and to love. – Author unknown
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CONTENTS 32
70 FEATURES
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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18
18
Peter Powell Roberts
32
Angelo Mario Masi
70
Lakewatch
By Jennifer Goodson
By Bridgette Waldau
By Patricia Pond
Heartland LIVING 50
86
Special Section Charlie Awards 46 FMA By Jessica Pleger Girl 50 Knotty By Pamela Glinski of the Businesses 64 Blessings By Katy Fassler
86 Champion for Children Awards Gala By Cindy Sebring Adams
Columns 90 Showcasing The Arts
Contents
October | November 2015
108
116
103 Heartland Scene
& Community Guide
104 DeSoto County
Arcadia Youth Rodeo Assoc. Season Kick-Off
106 Hardee County
Wildcat Tailgate Party
108 Highlands County
The Palms Apple Festival Lake Jackson Clean-up Day Rock'n Heartland Youth Triathlon
112 Okeechobee County
B.R.A.T. Club Labor Day Ranch Rodeo Gilbert Ford Flag Dedication Artist's Reception honoring W.R. Nager
116 Polk County
Stepping Out for Education United Way Celebration
What is Plein Air Art
92 Healthy Living
Pro Tips for Fitness at Home
12 Behind the Scenes 100 Dining Guide
94 Woman2Woman Jennifer Goodson
96 Agriculture in the Heartland Fear of the Bird Flu
98 Southern Chef
Recipes by Layne Prescott
Cover Self-Portrait Painting by Peter Powell Roberts
Heartland LIVING October |November 2015
Heartland LIVING
October November 2015
Story on page 18 Your Lifestyle Community Magazine
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Behind the Scenes Art Director
Bridgette K. Waldau has been a graphic and fine artist for over 30 years. She moved from
Illinois to South Florida in 1972. She received her A.A. from the Ft. Lauderdale Institute of Art and a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Stetson University. She moved to Okeechobee in 1994 where she opened her studio, Bridgette Waldau Studio of Art. Bridgette has been creative director for several publications, working with Heartland Publications and Marketing as creative director since 2011. Bridgette is also very active in the community. She is arts and culture director of Okeechobee Main Street (10 years) and member of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. Bridgette is married to James, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.
Editor Writer Jessica Pleger Jessica Pleger is a wife, mother, editor, writer and caterer. She attended the
University of Central Florida where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and worked as a paralegal for the past 15 years. She also is the owner and operator of Pink Pineapple Catering that allows her to fulfill her passions for cooking and entertaining. Jessica enjoys taking photographs and participating in community events throughout the Heartland. A lifelong resident of Florida, Jessica was raised in Hardee County and now resides in Avon Park with her husband, Jonathan and daughter, Finley Grace. In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors, traveling and spending time with family.
Photography Director
Rafael Pacheco I am a Pisces and was born on the island of Puerto Rico, but ironically I can’t swim. My dog thinks I am crazy for locking the door so many times in 10 seconds and my cats think I am made of catnip. Everything I wear is black, gray or blue. If I put on something colorful I must have been in a hurry. Keep me away from triple layer chocolate cakes, flan or Oreos. They are my kryptonites. The 70’s were peaceful, the 80’s were rocking, the 90’s were military and the new millennium is inspiring. Photography is how I have let my artistic visions come to life since the early 90’s. Patience, kindness, sharing, sacrifice, love and not to judge I saw my mother practice these and they stayed within me. We are collective energy and all from the same Source. I don’t see the world through my eyes. I see it through my soul.
Writer Pamela Glinski is a freelance writer and photographer from Sebring, Florida. A former
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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website administrator for CI Interactive Website Design and Internet Marketing in Naples, Florida, Pam attended Miami Dade Community College. This Michigan native is an avid outdoor enthusiast who can often be found photographing wildlife at Highlands Hammock State Park or in her own yard on Lake Sebring. Friends and family describe Pam as a great home chef who knows how to throw a dinner party. Because of her passion for travel, adventure, and great last-minute deals, Pam has been on numerous cruises and has traveled throughout the United States, Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.
October | November 2015
Writer Jennifer Goodson holds two Bachelor of Arts Degrees in Psychology and Applied Behavioral
Sciences from Ashford University. She has been writing for the past 25 years and has been freelance writing and editing for the past 10 years. Jennifer works with several publishers and authors worldwide providing professional editing, writing, and ghostwriting services. Among writing and motivational speaking, Jennifer also is the Founder of Brake 5, a worldwide women’s network, where she provides pastoral counsel and mentorship programs to over 4,000 women in the US and 86+ countries. Raised in Polk County and living the last 20 or so years in Highlands County, Jennifer is familiar with the Heartland. When not writing, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her children and watching her husband create masterpieces of art in the studio. Her and her husband, world-renowned fine artist, Keith, live in Auburndale, Florida with their three children. Photographer
Katara Simmons I am an adventure seeker and a proud mom. My passions are capturing
life moments on camera and raising my 10-year-old son Kaden. Professionally, I have 15 years of experience as a staff photographer for local newspapers and with my own business a Sebring-based photography studio, Kaptured by Katara. My special talents are shooting people, editorial content, and marketing images. I'm a Highlands county native and enjoy meeting people and exploring places around the world. When I'm not taking pictures, I am helping grow my family's business, Sebring Wholesale Meats.
Photographer Sharon Cannon is a professional photographer as well as a licensed aesthetician and
makeup artist. Her passion has always been photography. She see’s everything as a moment to be captured, a true “Nikon moment”. She is an award winning photographer having transitioned from amateur to professional in 2010 when she was contacted by local publications to photograph events in the local area. Sharon was a member of the American Business Women’s Association and the American Cancer Society’s Look Good Feel Better Chairperson. She is a member of Okeechobee Main Street, on the arts and cultural committee. Sharon has lived in Okeechobee for many years, and has one son, Karl. “I love the history of our little town. I want to preserve all of our ‘todays’ through the lens of my camera, for our future ‘tomorrows’.”
Photographer
Amber Callaham lives in Lakeland, FL, with her husband and Goldendoodle Hank. She
graduated with her masters in school counseling at the University of Central Florida and is an elementary school counselor at a title I school in Bartow, FL. Helping and being an advocate for disadvantaged children is her passion and what she feels the Lord has led her to do. In Heartland her free time she enjoys gardening, reading, traveling and photography. In 2012 a friend LIVING taught her how to use her Nikon and she hasn't been able to put it down since. Weddings, October engagements, families and children are some of her favorite moments to capture. November 2015
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Behind the Scenes
October | November 2015
LIVING
Writer
Audra Clemons A Bachelor of Arts degree in English
Literature from the University of Missouri propelled Audra Clemons to begin her professional writing career in Los Angeles, California. At the age of 27 she wrote, produced and sold a national television show. After three top-rated seasons, Audra relocated to work in Miami, FL, where she enjoyed being closer to her family in Okeechobee. After a short stint in Miami, Audra was offered a position in New York City with the top International Travel PR agency. Currently, Audra travels between Florida and South America. She owns a boutique media service company that offers PR, Marketing, Brand Journalism and Social Media services. Audra also enjoys freelance writing for numerous media outlets.
Writer to scribble her name in crayon on the walls. Hailing from Akron, Ohio, she moved to Sebring in 2006 to attend the Great Commission Bible Institute. Katy, an avid reader and book collector, lives by Dr. Suess’ advice, “Fill your house with stacks of books, in all the crannies and all the nooks.” Katy is currently the Director of Children’s Ministry at the First United Methodist Church in Sebring. Katy and her husband, Sean, live in Sebring with their two daughters, Adia and Emery.
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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Editor Jessica Pleger Creative | Art Director Bridgette Waldau Feature Writers Audra Clemons Katy Fassler Pamela Glinski Jennifer Goodson Jessica Pleger Patricia Pond Bridgette Waldau
Feature Photographers Sharon Cannon Travis Brandon Garcia Elena Rodriguez Sarah Sandel Katara Simmons
Adam Glinski has been a fitness enthusiast for numerous years and an industry professional in the Sebring area since 2013. As the founder of RUC Fitness, LLC, Adam serves his community with customized personal training, meal plans, and fitness apparel. Adam enjoys traveling, running, the outdoors, and is a member of the Florida Army National Guard.
family, has lived overseas but did most of her growing up in Arcadia. After meeting and marrying Mike Prescott, she moved to Wauchula in 1979 and now calls it her home. She and Mike raised their three children there and now are reaping the benefits of their labor with four sweet, beautiful grandchildren. As a child, Layne loved watching her mother and grandmother in the kitchen. Her cooking style is eclectic and best described as “Southern comfort cuisine”. Of course her husband says that he made her the “Chef” that she is today. Layne has conducted cooking classes in Punta Gorda and currently teaches a class in Wauchula. She loves to invent and re-invent recipes. Her greatest joy comes from three things: her faith, loving on her family and getting in the kitchen and “whipping” up something good.
CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams
Photography Director Rafael Pacheco
Writer
Layne Prescott Layne was born into a military
October | November 2015
Contributing Writers Adam Glinski Layne Prescott
Katy Fassler has been telling stories since she was able
Writer
Heartland
Photographers Amber Callaham Bill Wright Published By Heartland Publications & Marketing 412 Rest Haven Road Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 863-781-0344 E-mail Cindy@Heartland-Living.com Become a fan on facebook. Visit us at www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com
Florida Magazine Association
Winner of a 2014 & 2015 FMA Charlie Awards
Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing. Copyright 2015, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher. All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Heartland Living Magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Heartland Living Magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.
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FLORIDA MASTER ARTIST By Jennifer Goodson Photos by Travis Brandon Garcia
Heartland LIVING
October November 2015
Painting: Beside Still Waters detail (32 x 24).
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Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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-Peter Powell Roberts
A Happy Home (30 x 48).
The true measure of a man is not found in what his hands create but in the legacy, he leaves from what he has created for those who follow. Florida Master Artist, Peter Powell Roberts, was such a man. The journey of his life is nothing short of inspiring. Roberts was given the immense opportunity to touch others throughout his life that to this day influences many. Roberts’s family traveled from Wales to the United States in 1924 settling in Cleveland, Ohio where he was born in 1925. At an early age, he obtained a passion for art, which transitioned into teaching during his adult years to art students at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Fla. After 23 years of teaching, Roberts embraced retirement moving with his beloved wife, Doris, to Zolfo Springs, Fla. „
Photos of paintings courtesy of Heartland Cultural Alliance.
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From there, he existed in the place of continuous creativity pulling from the surrounding natural environment bringing it into reality with each brush stroke. Roberts’s métier was creating works of art expressing God’s creation by incorporating the natural elements of oil, wood, stone, and metal. Art pieces were formed that captured the moment of mother earth telling a story of life, God’s creativity, and nature’s tranquility. A 3-dimensional abstract naturalist as some deem him to be, Roberts was able to capture the foundations of creation from the deepest dwellings of earth to the sun shining upon lush greens, leaves, and sable palms found in many places such as Highlands Hammock State Park in Sebring, Fla.
Leafy Delights (36 x 36).
Like every individual, ‘Pete’ known by his friends, encountered adversities. After 45 years of marriage, his wife Doris went home to be with her Creator. After her death, he slipped into depression causing him to stop painting and taking care of himself. However, upon an outstretched nozzle, from Sheba, a therapy dog of Fred Leavitt’s, Roberts began to paint endlessly. Jim Fitch, a long time friend of Pete’s, says that he believes that it was the encouragement and patience of Leavitt that gave that second wind of hope to Pete. Shortly, after meeting Pete, Fred was given access to many paintings that were kept in a storage unit for safe keeping and he was able to have Pete repair many of them as well as those found in Pete’s living quarters. Furthermore, Leavitt encouraged Pete to create new pieces often going with him to capture those moments on camera.
Heartland
Both Fitch and Leavitt spoke highly of
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Of Psalms and Shadows (36 x 36).
Opposite page: Life Within (24 x 36)
Heartland LIVING
October November 2015
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The Sounds of Color (48 x 24).
What World (48 x 24).
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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The Essence of the Hammock (48 x 24).
Pete as not only a Master Artist but as a man of great character. Leavitt says he remembers Pete as being a kind, humble, and gentle spirit who did not harbor any evil within him. Leavitt said that he was continually painting when he finished one piece he quickly would begin another. Fred remembers a time when the palettes of wood were on back order and he had to be the bearer of bad news. Pete just completed a new piece and was ready to start a new one. He recalls Pete’s response; “If you do not find something for me to paint on I will continue to paint this one.” His passion for creating was apparent. Jim Fitch met Pete many years before Fred and had the opportunity to not only build a friendship but also a
The Father Figure (42 x 36). To the Ultimate (36 x 24).
Heartland LIVING
October November 2015
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Autumn Waters (30 x 48).
Autumn (48 x 24).
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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business relationship. Fitch believed in Pete and his unique art expression. As an acquisition agent with the Florida Master Artists Collection, Fitch was able to acquire several pieces of Pete’s work. South Florida State College was the first to ever purchase an original art piece by artist Peter Powell Roberts. From there, the Florida Masters bought several of his paintings in which they were later donated to the Museum of Florida Art and Culture. In addition, Roberts and Fitch collaborated in creating the construction of the SFSC reception area incorporating wood, steel, and glass. His legacy adorns the walls of the Museum of Florida Art and Culture and the corridors of South Florida State College today, both of which are located in Avon Park, Fla.
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Fitch describes Roberts art work as, “ . . . enduring in context of environmental art, regional art, and Florida art.” Fitch says young aspiring artists could learn a lot from Roberts as he said that Roberts never stopped developing
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Love From Above detail. (24 x 40).
and honing in on his artistic skill. He continued to mature his gift. During Roberts’s time of retirement, he never gave up on his gift even when his art was not selling. He set his mind to continue to do what it was he set out to do.
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In April of 2014, heaven opened and embraced Peter where I am sure he continues to create before his Creator. Roberts willed his collection of art to the Heartland Cultural Alliance, which Fred Leavitt is President. Leavitt’s mission is to house Roberts’s collection within the Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art and Cultural Center that is underway on the second floor of the Community Center in Avon Park, Fla. For more information on how you can be apart of contributing to this venture please visit www. peterpowellroberts.org. To find more information on Heartland Cultural Alliance’s mission in promoting the art and culture of Highlands County visit www.heartlandculturalallicance.org. Peter Powell Roberts is a man who embraced the elements of creation and chose to express them in a new light so that man could associate with its beauty. He was able to bring such creative expression from the darkest parts of the dust to a place of human relation. His pieces are those that depict a time created before him, in which he captured its beauty during his days, and now inspires others after he has gone. He leaves a legacy of expression intertwining creation, emotion, and deep knowledge of who he was within his Creator.
Self-Portrait (24 x 24).
I want to leave you with Peter Powell Robert’s Statement “My paintings are designed with the elements that of Purpose found in Jan Merop’s book, I Never Paint Alone, our “Creator” has blessed us with, in hope that Memoirs of a Master Artist.
Peter Powell Roberts in his studio.
others will feel the joy and wonder that I have, as I view even a hint of our environment. The color, contrast, and texture of every leaf and blade of grass produce this environment we all live within. I hope that each painting, that I complete, will produce in each viewer a reaction of love, peace, and understanding: the feelings of “Love” for the elements that help us exist; “Peace” that relieves us from the terror and tension that destroys our elements of rest; “Understanding” of what man Heartland must do to preserve the elements that make our LIVING environment whole. I produce paintings that give October the viewer this sense of beauty, but demand of man November 2015 the responsibility to preserve. All of this, I consider my responsibility. I never paint alone.” ¢
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Spreading Love in Okeechobee and all over the World By Bridgette Waldau Photos by Sharon Cannon
Anyone living in Okeechobee, Fla. for the past 37 years, on any given day most likely witnessed a gentlemen walking down the street with his umbrella, black briefcase and bible in tow. Small in stature, this man walked tall in his lifelong journey of spreading the word of hope and love. Angelo Mario Masi has been and continues to be an inspirational force in Okeechobee, often described as a “modern day Apostle Paul”, who is respected by many people for his example of bold dedication and living a simple humble life.
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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Older photos and travel photos provided by Angelo Mario Masi.
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Digital rendering image of Masi by Rafael Pacheco.
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Masi prays in the garden of his current home at the Okeechobee Health Care Facility.
f Italian descent, Masi was born April 11, 1921 in Brooklyn, N.Y. His childhood molded him into the man he is today. Five month before Masi was born, his father died tragically at the age of 28. His father’s death created a hard and mental toll on his mother. When Masi was born, she decided to give him to the Salvation Army Children’s Orphanage in Morristown N.Y. His grandmother and aunt offered to care for him, but because of his mother’s mental distress, she refused their offer. Masi believes his mother took the death of his father very hard and therefore took it out on him. He was only 2-1/2 weeks old when he went into the children’s home. Also, according to Masi, due to a lack of nutrition, particularly milk; prior to entering the children's home he developed severe bone problems, which challenged him throughout life. During his young years, he cried many a night on his pillow, wondering ‘who cares’? His life at times was lonely, however he did not let the difficult start in the world influence his life in a negative way. Around the beginning of his teenage life, Masi began his devotion to a Christian life. He recalls that one of the nurses at the Salvation Army Children’s home shared with him the bible verse John 3:16 and he accepted his faith, believing Jesus died for him. This devotion to God gave him the grace to love and understand his mother.
Masi at h
is Okeech
obee hom
e at River
Bend Mo
bile Hom
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rk.
Masi, at the age of 17, moved to Miami, Fla. through the efforts of Ray Stanford of New York. Once there he began teaching at the Miami Rescue Mission. From 1971 to 1981 he began missionary work at the Florida Bible College in Hollywood, Fla., where he influenced many young lives. He spent his time there training students in missionary work. He taught in the morning and in the afternoon; Masi and the students went out to rescue missions and hospitals. Masi wanted them to experience a “hands on” work in evangelism. Okeechobee then beckoned him. Grace Brethren Church members visited the Florida Bible College and invited him to come to Okeechobee to minister to the children at their school. He recalls the school at the time had 20 – 25 children in enrollment. The church also provided him a place to live. Eventually he moved into a modest trailer at River Bend Mobile Home & RV Park, which was his home up until 2014. His simple lifestyle was funded through donations from his gospel teachings and the generosity of local citizens. Masi says that throughout his missions he saw sadness and depression, but he always tried to bring joy and peace. He describes himself as a simple man who needs no material possessions or titles.
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or 37 years Masi has been ministering in Okeechobee. His physical limitations did not hinder him in his mission. He could be seen around Okeechobee walking everywhere he needed to go. The only exception was the kindness of local citizens who would pick him up as he walked or they were a phone call away whenever he needed a ride. He recalls a time, when he first started his ministry in Okeechobee, of walking to the boy’s youth incarceration school four miles north of Okeechobee. He was walking along Hwy 441 toward the boy’s school when an Okeechobee County Deputy Sheriff stopped him and asked what he was doing. After telling the deputy his mission, the deputy explained to him how dangerous it was to walk on the highway and drove him to the school. Through the efforts of the deputy, Masi never had to walk again to the boy’s school, as a ride was always arranged for him. Masi also visited inmates in the Okeechobee County Jail. Many of these visits included one-on-one counseling and worship services. He ministered those with substance abuse and those at the local halfway house.
Masi was not one to forget about the homeless. He was ever present when Big Lake Mission would be feeding the homeless. He states, “ I would provide the spiritual food before they received the physical food.” Masi was a regular visitor at Raulerson Hospital and local nursing homes, going from room to room praying with patients if he was invited. His love and prayers extended to the staff at these places as well. Many staff members were the ones who gave him rides to and from the hospital or nursing homes. Many steps of his daily long walks also included visits to local businesses, dropping off pamphlets and just spreading some uplifting words as their workday started. Masi is not an ordaine minister but he has preached in many area churches. He is well known and loved throughout the community. Besides his dedication to Okeechobee, six weeks out of every year he would go on mission trips within the United States and around the world. Oversees, he has traveled to Germany, Ukraine, Philippines, Austria, France,
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Philippines, the former Czechoslovakia, Spain, Botswana, Kenya, Senegal and Mexico. These trips were made possible, Masi says, “by the generosity of three Christian Okeechobee businessmen”. ocal resident and friend, Billy White, speaks fondly of Masi, "There is no telling how many lives have been changed and souls saved because Angelo lived out the Word of God in his life. When God told him to go he did. Angelo has traveled most of the world depending on God to keep His promise to take care of His children. Matthew 7:16 says,'Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven'. Angelo has let God's light shine in him for 94 years." Many of his mission trips were in support of missions served by Masi’s former students at the Florida Bible College. Asked if traveling alone concerned him, he replied, “ I’m going in the name of the Lord, but I use common sense.”
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asi never married, nor had any children. He keeps in contact with his 98-year-old sister, Ines Digioia, who has two children and lives in New York. Although he did not have a biological family close around him, Masi affectionately contends that his family consists of many from all over the world. He has many godchildren and testimonials from every corner of the earth reveal the love and admiration of those he has touched and who have touched him. A year ago when Masi’s physician gave him the bad news that his knees had given out and he had to stop walking, Masi questioned God as to why this happened. How was he going to continue his mission? He was ready for the Lord to take him. But Masi, as he has done throughout his whole life, put his medical challenge in the hands of his Lord. It did not take long for Masi to discover his next mission. Unable to stay in his humble home, he moved to the Okeechobee Rehabilitation Center, a place he was so familiar with, a place he used to visit.
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The Heartland Region has helped us sustain our business for the last 89 years.
With the aid of a wheel chair, Masi continues to spread the Word and appears to be a popular person at the rehabilitation center. He can often be found going up and down the hallways, spreading his joy. However, he is not confined inside the center, as beloved friends bring him out into the community on many occasions. His schedule is always full. Sandy Perry, administrator-In-training at the Okeechobee Heath Care Facility, shares that Angelo Masi is truly a man of God. "Since 1998, whenever I would see him walking on 441 with his umbrella, briefcase and Bible, headed to the hospital, nursing home, jail or other entity to share the good news of Jesus Christ, I'd turn around and get him so he wouldn't have to walk so far that day. After getting in the car, he’d say, 'Oh yeah, I know you!,' and comment that he knew I was a born-again Christian." Perry continues, "Fast forward many years and Angelo, now 94 years of age,
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Heartland LIVING October November 2015
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is a resident at Okeechobee Health Care Facility where he prays and visits with residents every single day. He opens and closes the Friday morning Ringin' & Singin' activity in prayer, in addition to singing solos. As he grew up in a Salvation Army home in New Jersey, he also speaks Italian. When he sings the solo, Down from His Glory, he sings in both English and Italian and holds out the high notes like a professional, all to the glory of God! As I introduce him to the group each Friday, the residents are shocked when they hear that he has visited over 72 countries around the world throughout his lifetime, serving as a missionary, saving souls for Christ Jesus, singing solos and establishing missions. What a servant for God he has been!"
Custom Custom built built Fly, Fly, Spinning Spinning & & Casting Casting rods rods
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49th Annual Highlands Fine Arts & Crafts Festival Presented By: Duke Energy
asi reflects, “I am doing what I believe and what I love. I want to make a difference in this community. It is the word of the Lord, not me. If I am going to heaven, why shouldn’t everyone go?” At age 94, his missionary work continues. His grandmother lived to be 111, so there is a chance that Angelo Mario Masi will be around Okeechobee for many years to come, spreading his word of love. ¢
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015, 9AM-4 PM Historic Downtown Sebring
www.HighlandsArtLeague.org • (863) 385-6682 Live Music • Street Performances • Children's Street Chamber of Commerce Street • Culinary Street
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PLANTATION
Set Your Sight on this premier Sporting Clays Facility and Hunting Perserve in South Florida!
OKEECHOBEE LIVESTOCK MARKET
• Quail Hunts • Pheasant Hunts • Lodging • Sporting Clays • Private Events • Corporate Groups We will be open late on Friday nights for Shooting Under the Stars!
(863) 763-2529 Quail Creek Plantation 12399 NE 224 Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
WHERE TRANSCTIONS ARE MADE AND RELATIONSHIPS ARE BUILT. SALES: Every Monday & Tuesday at Noon Cattle drop-off on Sundays! Receive Free Hay & Water, plus Shade Cloth, Fans and Sprinklers
1055 Hwy 98 North - Okeechobee, FL 34972
863.763.3127
Email: reservations@quailcreekplantation.com
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livestockmarket@centurylink.net
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Waldau
Private studio teaching you how to paint step-by-step in a relaxed and fun setting. It's the perfect place to get together and enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage.
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Small class size promises personalized instruction and a lot of fun! Treat yourself to time away from the stress of the outside world and take a painting home with you!
Okeechobee’s Original Paint & Sip Studio
Give the gift of Art Gift Certificates Available
All classes taught by professional artist Bridgette Waldau.
www.bridgette-art.com 863-467-7300
The Little Yellow Cottage on the Corner
111 NE 2nd Street - Suite A
Be Your Own Kind of
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Two Locations: 727 US Hwy 27 S
SEBRING (863) 385-7183 400 Avenue K SE Suite 3
WINTER HAVEN (863) 293-SKIN
Heartland
Dr. Michael J. Rogers Board Certified Dermatologist
www.LakesideDermatology.com
LIVING
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Heartland LIVING Wins Four Florida Magazine Association Charlie Awards
Heartland LIVING Magazine was honored to attend the 62nd Annual Charlie Awards Banquet during the Publishing Conference and Expo at the Omni Orlando Resort at Champions Gate. Bridgette Waldau, Creative Director for Heartland LIVING received the following four awards: Silver and Bronze Award for Best Feature Design – Consumer Less than 20,000 Circulation, Silver Award for Best Table of Contents and Silver Award for Best SelfPromotional Ad for Heartland LIVING Magazine. The photographers associated with the Best Feature Design Silver Award was Rafael Pacheco and the Bronze Award was Carlton Ward, Jr. Congratulations and thank you Bridgette Waldau for your hard work and dedication to this publication!
Heartland Living Team at the banquet: Publisher and CEO Cindy Sebring Adams, Creative Director Bridgette Waldau and Editor/Writer Jessica Pleger. (Below): Adams and Waldau are pleased with the evening's outcome.
Bridgette Waldau receiving one of the four awards.
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Tires - Wheels - Auto Repairs Truck Accessories Tool Boxes - Fuel Tanks
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Call or email us if you want to join us and share your business with all 7 Counties in the Heartland for one low price!
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49
notty
girl Pink is Not Going Away By Pamela Glinski Photos by Elena Rodriguez
Breast cancer is a devastating disease that will afflict one out of every eight women and one in every one thousand men. Understanding the lifesaving importance of early detection and treatment is the mission of the Knotty Girl Loves, Inc. non-profit organization. Founded by breast cancer survivor Diana Albritton, the Knotty Girl logo, with her rope and knot body, offers a visual of what breast cancer can feel like…round and hard like a knot! She is a registered trademark with a mission to educate and save lives by reminding women and men to do their monthly self-breast exams.
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“We need to do a better job of doing monthly checks. Mammograms don’t always see it,” said Albritton, who discovered her cancer in 2002 after being shown a “Beads of Life” keychain by a business friend. With multi-sized beads, the breast cancer awareness key chain was a visual of what tumors might look like at different stages. That
night, she did a self-exam, finding a lump. The presence of a tumor was confirmed with an ultrasound, though her recent mammogram had given her the “all clear” for the year. “No one size fits all! There are different types of breast cancer. Mine was the type not seen by a mammogram. It was the “Beads of Life” key chain that helped me picture
Diana Albritton with Knotty Girl coffee cup.
what I might feel. What if I never saw that key chain?” Survival depends on how early a cancer is found. The National Cancer Data Base states that if cancer is found in its earliest stages a patient can have up to a 93 percent survival rate, but that rate dropped drastically to only 15 percent for late stage cancers. “In January 2013, I was working on my annual business plan for Albritton Insurance Services and Lunch Club Wednesday. I sat and looked around and said another year of planning and making it happen for others,” Diana reminisced. “I was looking at something pink, thinking pink (cancer) will never go away, and even though the stats from 1 in 8 women might get lower over time….this is a fight that will live on.” Over the course of the next year, Diana’s
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WARRIORS
on wat r
BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS & SUPPORTERS DRAGON BOAT TEAM
Orlando Warriors Water Race Team
Kristy Harris and Diana Albritton.
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early ideas of a breast cancer campaign to educate and raise awareness quickly became Knotty Girl Love, Inc., a 501-c(3) non-profit organization. Knotty Girl was launched on Feb. 24, 2014, as that was 12 years to the date that Diana found her own cancer and saved her own life by being educated about monthly self-breast exams. “Did I want to get breast cancer…No! Did it change my life…Of course,” emphasized Albritton, who became a strong advocate for breast cancer awareness after her own journey to recovery. “Looking back I was able to take my negative…breast cancer and the temporary two years of being disable in my right arm due to lymph edema and nerve damage… and create something positive in my journey, which is to educate and save lives with, Knotty Girl.” Now, Diana is a regular guest speaker at conferences and events using Knotty Girl to help educate on the importance of monthly self breast exams.
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Diana Albritton and Kristy Harris watch Jim Hengy (center) create the fly fishing rod called the "Exhale".
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A natural entrepreneur, Diana has owned her own successful business since 2004, Albritton Insurance Services, and founded a women’s networking club in 2006, Lunch Club Wednesday. In her spare time, she paddlers with the Orlando Warriors on Water, an all breast cancer survivor dragon boat racing team that competes throughout Florida. Diana is quick to give graphic artist Kristy Harris a great deal of credit for Knotty Girl’s success, “She is a BIG part of the story as the designer of the Knotty Girl image and coordinator of our social media (Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest) and website. I am so blessed to have this young lady sharing this mission with me. We work very close every day as cancer takes no days off.” A problem solver by nature, Albritton originally got the idea for a non-profit foundation from something her mother told her during a trip for her cancer treatments. “God has a plan for you. You have to be patient and pray.” Jim Hengy
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Diana with the fly rod "Exhale," tries it out for the first time at a stream in North Carolina.
Welcome to the simple way of life... Fairway Pines at Sun ‘N Lake a unique concept in senior living. 30th Year Anniversary!
We Now Carry Leather Goods!
• Independent & Assisted Living • Guest Apartments • Weekly Laundry Service • Weekly Housekeeping service • Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool • Butterfly Garden • “Scoops” Ice Cream Parlor • 24 hour Wellness Supervision • 24 hour Emergency Response System • Scheduled Local Transportation • Three Full Meals Daily Enjoy the peaceful country setting, while still being conveniently located to Florida Hospital Heartland, local physician's and shopping.
863-382-6464 863-382-9824 108 Circle Park Dr. Downtown Sebring
www.vmbenterprises.espwebsite.com
5959 Sun ‘N Lake Blvd. Sebring, FL 33872 www.FairwayPinesLiving.net Assisted Living Facility #5105
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“During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will be introducing ‘The Exhale,’ a custom fly fishing rod made just for Knotty Girl.
THE
After breast cancer surgery, fly fishing is the number one exercise recommended for men and women because of the upper body movement,” Diana Albritton explained. Handcrafted of premium components for each individual order, the rods are designed specifically for the charity by Jim Hengy, BY president/owner of Boner Outfitters and Custom Rods in Sebring. For more detail information and/or to order visit www.knottygirl.org website.
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In a 2012 Heartland LIVING magazine article about Diana’s remarkable journey, she spoke of a bracelet etched with the words “Dream, Inspire and Play” that epitomized her life at the time. Today, thanks to friends, she also wears bracelets that are continual reminders to “Embrace the Journey” and “Live by Faith.” Diana said, “Sometimes, I feel like I shouldn’t be alive. But after I found my knot, my husband, Scott, said that I need to share this message and make this a mission to help save other people.
Exhale
“I think it is a tremendous thing that Diana is doing with Knotty Girl, promoting self-exams and early detection,” said Hengy, who wanted to use his talents to help. “It is a great endeavor and can save lives.”
Heartland
On Oct. 24, Knotty Girl and her team will be at the Florida Hospital Pink Army Strut in downtown Sebring to help raise awareness and share her mission, educating on the importance of monthly self-breast exams.
Knotty Girl is something I live to do. Pink (cancer) is not going away.” ¢
Casting Therapy Facts: On a physical level, the gentle, rhythmic motion of fly casting can be good therapy for the upper body, encouraging increased mobility for women who have had surgery or radiation as part of their breast cancer treatment.
The Knotty Girl Team welcomes you to share the Knotty Girl mission and website www.knottygirl.org with your family, friends, coworkers, patients and clients, “The WORLD” as this cancer effects all genders.
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15 Year s of Good Business!
863-314-9099 Visit Our New XL Room! First Class Fashion & Sportswear for Consignment by Appointment & Men Formal Women & Bridal Wear Available plus Home Decor Voted Best of Highlands 2015
Consignment by Appointment
659 S. Commerce Avenue Downtown Sebring kathydoherty6593180@gmail.com
Budget Bi-Rite Insurance, Inc. Super Low Rates! - We Find Insurance That Meets Every Budget! Mobile Home and Home Owners Auto Insurance
Now Selling Garage Liability - General Liability RV - Motorcycle - ATV Homeowners & Commercial
Call or come by for a Free Estimate for your insurance coverage needs. Ashley Bishop, Agent
Licensed by the State of Florida
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Open Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Open Saturday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Closed Sunday and Monday
863-453-3903 Serving all of Florida
www.budgetbirite.com Se Habla Espańol
In Highlands County since 1982 1500 US Highway 27 South - Avon Park
Scholarship Fundraiser for DeSoto County High School Students This year we will be honoring the following legends: Pat & Kay Kelly, Charles Harmon and Dr. Woodrow Wilson Matthews. Our Young Farmer/Rancher of the year is Michael Martin
Sebring’s Only Class 3 Dealer Guns Ammo Accessories 2250 NE Roan Street, Arcadia, FL 34266
Concealed Weapons Permit Classes Gunsmithing Gift Certificates Available Mon - Fri 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Sat 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
201 Circle Park Dr. Sebring, FL Located directly on the Circle in Downtown Sebring, corner of Circle Park Dr. & South Ridgewood Dr.
(863) 273-5880 Taking Orders Now!
Custom "Tiffany Blue" Glock G42, Tiffany & Co. Bracelet & Custom Yeti 30 oz. Rambler
We are a one stop shop for all your lighting and home improvement needs.
Carry • Ceiling Fans We Also lbs • Mirrors LED Bu • Table & Floor
• Lamp Repair • Light Charms for • Fixtures & Lamps • Bulbs • Lamps • Ballasts • Ceiling • Security Lighting • Medallions • Lamp Shades • Fluorescent • Fixtures • Accessories • Accent Furniture • Light Fixtures
Heartland LIVING
October November 2015
Shop With Us Online!
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We intimately understand the challenges in ensuring every detail is immaculate and nothing overlooked for your dream wedding. All we need is your love, personal touch & guests to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Let’s Discuss Details! Call Our Banquet Specialist 863.385.4830 x5
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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 you make a late payment.
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Eighteen East ... a restaurant and bar! Today.Tommorrow.Together
Join Phillip Statler every Saturday for the Statler Financial Radio Show 1pm - 2pm on the WWTK 730am
Best Steaks Around
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Open Tuesday - Saturday 4 pm - 9:30 pm
18 East Main Street ~ Avon Park, Florida Like us on www.beststeakaround.com Facebook
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A Call to Prayer for the Community of Highlands County By Katy Fassler Photos by Katara Simmons
his past September was the annual Blessing of the Businesses of Highlands County. This event invites the local businesses and government to join together for prayer and lunch. “The Blessing of the Businesses is a faith based program that brings together the faith community and the business and governmental community to pray for the businesses and their owners and employees for whatever their needs may be,” says former Sebring mayor and committee member, George Hensley. “It is not prosperity praying for the business but a time the attendees can seek and respond to faith in their daily business activities and ask for God’s guidance in their business. This can support and confirm their positive outlook and reinforce their ethics and moral compass as they relate to their customers and the people they serve. It can say to the community that they seek God in their lives and business relationship. It is not “make me wealthy” but seeking and acknowledging God as a “partner” in their business and life.” The program was an outgrowth of Steve Slaybaugh of Sebring who was aware of a similar program in Destin, Florida known as the “Blessing of the Fleet,” a 50 year old program that prayed for the fishing fleet at the beginning of the fishing season each year. “I see business as ministry,” says Steve. “Some of us are called to be pastors and some of us are called to be businessmen in the business world. There are people that will come into our place of business that may never step into a church. We have the opportunity to minister our customers and employees.”
Wings of Faith Praise and Worship Group.
Pastor J. David Juliano of First United Methodist Church.
Dustin Woods, Pastor of Grace Bible Church and Zackary Heston.
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Jerrianne Carlton and Zackary Heston entertains the gathering.
Kevin Roberts, CEO for Champion for Children and Carissa Marine enjoy a conversation with others during the event.
John McClure, keynote speaker.
Steve held the initial event in 2008, inviting all the churches and businesses of Highlands County. Unfortunately only 8 pastors attended along with 60 members of the community. The following year was even fewer. Being aware of the potential impact in the community, Steve took a few years off to enlist a committee to better plan and create awareness. It was soon expanded into a luncheon program having community pastors pray for the business and government attendees at individual tables. The Blessing of the Businesses 2015 was the 4th annual luncheon and attended by over 200 guests and hosted at First United Methodist Church in Downtown Sebring.
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Keynote speaker, John McClure of Sebring, encouraged attendees to “seek God in everything they do. Integrity, honesty and compassion for others are the foundation for where God blesses the businesses.” McClure also added, “Listen. Trust. Obey. It’s foolish to think that God will bless us without us being obedient to Him.”
Linda Y. Boyd, event coordinator.
Special guests included music by the Wings of Faith Praise Team, and Zach Heston and JeriAnne Colson, and prayers by Pastor David Juliano of First United Methodist Church and Pastor Dustin Woods of Grace Bible Church. During the luncheon and keynote speaker, the Jericho Prayer Team met in a separate location on the church campus to pray for the event. “My involvement with the Blessing of Businesses is that the Lord has allowed me to gather other warriors to pray throughout the year for all the marketplace businesses, the schools, the churches and leaders, the government offices, all families and our communities,” says Jericho Prayer Team leader Shelle Truitt. “We take all requests that are filled out by the luncheon participants and pray faithfully over every single one. Also, Pastor Robert Shannon had imprinted in my mind that I should create a 30 Day Devotional for the Blessing of Businesses which was completed and given to every leader that attended the luncheon. This Devotional was created as a guide to
business owners to seek the Lord for direction in every decision made for their companies, to see the Power of God manifested in our marketplace, in our families and in our communities.” The Jericho Prayer Team is a group of prayer warriors from all over Highlands County who gather every Friday to pray for Highlands County, the region, the State of Florida, and all nations. “There are a number of people involved. Certainly, we thank the entire committee but especially Linda Boyd who is the event coordinator and is blessed with the talent to organize the event and have the intuition to see and know what needs to be done. The committee consists of some pastors and business owners and other volunteers who see the need to have an event that brings the faith community and businesses together in a common purpose,” says Hensley. “In some ways, this event underscores the purpose and desire of having a faith community in Sebring as initiated by the founding father of Sebring, George E. Sebring, who donated land for churches when the town was formed in 1912 as he understood the need for the new town to have a religious influence on the people who were to live here.” The 5th annual Blessing of the Business is already being planned. Next year’s event will be held at First United Methodist Church of Sebring in September 2016. ¢
We can make your Wedding memorable!
Specializing in Wedding & Cake Sculptures 863-519-3333
305 East Main Street - Bartow, FL www.cookiejarbakeshop.com
Miss Cindy’s Gardens Beautiful Garden & Lake Setting for Your Special Events
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863-991-5903
Weddings - Events Photo Shoots
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4450 Nassau Drive | Sebring, Florida
www.misscindysgardens.com
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The Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA) proudly presents the
Photography Exhibit & Speaker Series
An Unforgettable Dress Shopping Experience!
Featuring Expedition Photographs by Carlton Ward Jr. on display Sept. 24, 2015 – March 15, 2016 290 First Street South, Winter Haven • 863.299.2002 AngeliqueBridalByGina.com • facebook.com/angeliquebridalandformalbygina Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 10 am - 6 pm • Saturday: 10 am - 4 pm For more information, please visit www.HighlandsArtLeague.org or call (863) 385-6682. MoTA is located at 351 W. Center Avenue (behind the Public Library) in Downtown Sebring.
A Premier Retailer for
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By Patricia Pond Photos by Katara Simmons
Heartland LIVING
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Windy Point, Lake Istokpoga.
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any residents of Florida's Heartland moved here because of the beautiful lakes that dot our landscape. They shimmer around every corner, surprise us just over the next hill, or run alongside our streets and highways. The luckiest among us have homes on their shores, watching the ever-changing colors of "our lake." A few people watch much more closely. Since 1991, Lakewatch volunteers in Highlands County have been setting out from shore with their dip nets, jugs and equipment in their fishing boats, rowboats and canoes to collect samples of lake water.
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Heartland LIVING
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Mike Echols.
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They are part of a statewide citizen lake monitoring program coordinated through the University of Florida's Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Department. Florida Lakewatch is now one of the largest lake monitoring programs in the nation, with trained volunteers collecting samples from more than 600 lakes, rivers and coastal sites in 40 counties. One of these volunteers is Carl Cool, an engineer and former Highlands County Administrator, who lives on Lake Jackson in Sebring. Cool joined the Lakewatch program in 2013, and samples three sites in Lake Jackson. "I became a Lakewatch volunteer because I grew up on Lake Jackson and I love the lake. I learned to swim here; I learned to water ski here. My high school phys-ed class used to swim here. I wanted to help monitor the water quality of Lake Jackson." Volunteers sample their lake once a month from an assigned "site." They then freeze their water samples and deliver them to the nearest collection center. The samples are stored in a freezer until picked up and taken to the University of Florida's water chemistry laboratory for analysis.
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Carl Cool with grandson Cade Cool, checking water clarity with Secchi disk.
Clell Ford, Highlands County Lakes manager.
Heartland Lakewatch Volunteers gathered at the Home of Gary Lamperelli, Windy Point, Lake Istokpoga. Gary is President of the Istokpoga Management Committee and Vice-President of Friends of Istokpoga.
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(L-R) Erin McCarla, Mike Echols (back), Gary Lamperelli, Bill Dwinell and Sheila Cichra.
The monthly readings measure the levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and chlorophyll in the water. The latter is an indicator of the amount of algae present in the lake. Volunteers also take readings for water clarity using a device called a Secchi disk. "The history revealed by the monthly samples is so important," according to Clell Ford, Lakes Manager. Ford's office is part of the Highlands County Parks and Natural Resources Department. "Without this historical information, we would not know what the trends are in the lakes - whether a lake is going through a bad week, a bad year, or a downward trend," Ford said. Sheila Cichra, who moved to Sebring two years ago, is also a Lakewatch volunteer. Although a fairly new resident of Highlands County, Cichra said that when she first saw her house on Lake Josephine, "it just felt like home."
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Once a month, she samples three sites: the west, middle and east basins of Lake Josephine, doing the job of three volunteers. She is also president of the Lake Josephine Lake Association, with a membership of about 100 people.
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Lakewatch Volunteers do not take any corrective actions. They provide the data which identifies a problem so that scientists can determine the remedy that might be successful for a particular lake. "The data from the samples is the cornerstone upon which the Lakes Management Program is built," Ford said. Maintaining water quality in lakes is a balancing act between nature and man's activities. But when people upset this balance, problems develop. "The main problem in our lakes today is excess nutrients from storm water run-off and roadways. An amazing amount of pollutants gets washed off our roads into the lakes during heavy rains," Ford said.
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Sheila Cichra preparing samples for testing.
Erin McCarla with a sample of lake water from Lake Istokpoga.
Processing lake water samples.
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Recording sample findings.
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He added that leaf litter, grass cuttings from yards, and pet and livestock wastes result in a large amount of nutrients which can cause algae and excessive growth of undesirable plants on shorelines. Even native plants can get out of hand and clog waterways. The responsibility for deciding what, when and where specific remedies will be applied is shared among local and state governmental agencies, which have jurisdiction over our waters.
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Highlands County lake restoration projects include: removal of exotic plants from shorelines of several lakes; and removal of tussocks and muck in Lake Istokpoga and Lake Josephine; diverting and filtering storm water runoff to several lakes; and reestablishment of native plants in Lake Jackson and Lake June-in-Winter. Ford added that the reintroduction of native plant species along Lake Jackson's shoreline has helped absorb some of the chemicals that get washed into it. "We have planted natural vegetation and we maintain it. We have to make sure that the right things are growing around the lake. When we see exotics, we remove them. It is a constant battle." At the far southeastern edge of Highlands County lies Lake Istokpoga, the fifth largest lake in Florida. Because of its size, this lake has one of the biggest economic impacts of any of the lakes in the county. Istokpoga is in a lowlands region of shallow lakes and low lying grasslands, flatwoods and swamp forest. While there are subdivisions and settlements in some areas, large sections still retain the atmosphere of the bayou. "Plant life in and around a lake is a good thing, if it is kept in balance," Ford said. "Fish use plants, grasses and tussocks for nurseries. They need the plants and grasses to shelter their young." Tussocks are islands of plants which
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grow from the lake bottom and then float to the top. Formerly, the lake's natural cycle allowed plants to grow and die off seasonally.
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Now, flood control measures have interrupted this cycle, creating large hummocks of weeds that choke the shoreline and block access to the water. Costly mechanical plant removal now replaces the natural cycle. "We realized that we needed a separate lake association that would focus on the issues of Lake Istokpoga," said Gary Lamperelli, who owns a home on Windy Point. "This led to the formation of the Friends of Istokpoga Lake Association, Inc., in August of 1998. "We work with county, state and federal agencies to insure they are aware of our concerns regarding the lake. We also inform the public what is being done to the lake," said Lamperelli, Vice-President of Friends.
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The number of Lakewatch volunteers on Highlands County's lakes varies, but Clell Ford believes that the county should maintain coverage on 45 lakes at all times. He estimates that if the county had to pay for the work these volunteers do, the economic value to the county for testing on 45 lakes would be $225,000 annually.
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If you are interested in becoming a Lakewatch volunteer, you must have access to a boat a least one day a month. Contact Dan Willis, Florida Lakewatch Regional Coordinator at 1-800-5253928. Willis is based at the University of Florida's Institute of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and will schedule an appointment to train a new volunteer on his or her home lake. ¢
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Photos by Sarah Sandel The 16th annual Judge Clifton M. Kelly Champion for Children Awards Gala was held at Grace Bible Church on September 24. CEO Kevin Roberts said the gala had its biggest turnout “by far” in its 16-year history with 450 attendees. It started in 2000 with about 80 guests attending. Joy Salinder and Larry Moore amazed everyone once again with the elaborate decorations. The theme for this year was “Falling in Love with Kids.” The Classical Cousins String Ensemble, a group featuring five accomplished school-age youths, entertained the audience. They performed selections from The Sound of Music, including “Edelweiss” and the song, “Let it Go,” from the animated film, Frozen.
Kevin Roberts presents the 2015 Highlands County Champion for Children Award to Dale McQuillin,along side his wife is Shirley McQuillin.
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Award nominees: Avon Park High teacher Jennifer DeWitt, retired Lake Placid High teacher Dale McQuillen, Healthy Start of Highlands County Care Coordinator Millie Martin, Lake Placid High teacher Melissa Sohn and Woodlawn Elementary teacher Jerry Lee Wright.
Debbie and Kevin Roberts.
Amy and Eric Swayer.
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Pianist Jill Jernigan.
Singers Kristin Paradero and Moriah Finney.
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The Classical Cousins String Ensemble, a group featuring five accomplished school-age youths, Ashley Finke, Emily Finke, Megan Savage, Shane Savage and Adam Savage.
Kevin Roberts and Hometown Hero, Donald A. Griffing.
Jeff Roth
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. (Ret.) Donald A. Griffing was recognized as the Home Town Hero of 2015. The 2015 Champion for Children Award went to Dale McQuillin. McQuilin accepted the award with a standing ovation with his wife, Shirley, by his side. McQuillin said he felt fortunate and lucky to just be among the five nominees who work with children. McQuillin taught agriculture classes at Lake Placid High School from 1984 until his retirement in 2011. Roberts commented, “It’s always a difficult decision to choose the Champion for Children recipient because all of the nominees are so wonderful. The honor could have gone to any one of them.” The other nominees who were applauded for their dedication to children were: Avon Park High teacher Jennifer DeWitt, Healthy Start of Highlands County Care Coordinator Millie Martin, Lake Placid High teacher Melissa Sohn and Woodlawn Elementary teacher Jerry Lee Wright.
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The night was a first –class event enjoyed by all. ¢
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October November 2015
Presenting the envelope for award is Annabelle Rotroff (4) and James Keober (7).
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By Bridgette Waldau
Plein Air Art?
En plein air is a French expression, which means “in the open air,” and is used in the act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in full view. Plein Air artists reproduce the soul and essence of a landscape or subject by incorporating natural light, color and movement into their works. Artists were eager to paint outdoors and during the mid19th century working in natural light became particularly important to the Barbizon school and the Hudson River School. The high point of Plein Air art came with the emergence of Impressionism. Artists of that period included Monet, Renoir, Pissarro, Cezanne and Van Gogh.
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In the mid-1800s painting landscapes and other scenes on location finally became practical due to two important inventions: paints in tubes and the box easel. Before using paint in tubes, painters made their own paints by grinding and mixing dry pigment powders with various oils, a process that was more practical to do in an artist’s studio.
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The invention of the box easel, also known as the “French Easel,” included telescopic legs for easy setup and a compartment for carrying paints, brushes, palette and other supplies. It is not clear who developed it first, but the portable easels made the journey into the woods, along the water and up hillsides much easier. Box easels are still a popular choice of artists today since they fold up to the size of a brief case and are easy to store and transport. Finally, the later introduction of canvas panels (canvas stretched over flat boards) made it possible for artists to easily carry all of their equipment and supplies to outdoor locations. The popularity of outdoor painting has endured throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century and has seen a resurgence of interest in Plein Air painting in the United States. Groups of Plein Air artists began gathering together to paint at single locations or within certain geographic boundaries. These “Paint Outs” are now very popular and give artists a chance to share their talents and creativity with the public and with one another. Here in Florida, Plein Air art groups have many beautiful landscapes and unique outdoor subject matter to paint and it is not difficult for artists to find a Plein Air group near their home. There are many organizations that can connect an artist to Plein Air groups. One popular Florida organization and resource is Plein Air Florida. Plein Air Florida began with two Florida painters from Gainesville and is a network of Florida artists who paint on location. On their website, www.pleinairflorida. org, artists will find information on Plein Air painting events, artists, groups, exhibits, galleries and workshops. It is also
great resource for artists and collectors alike. This is the place for lovers of Plein Air painting to keep them informed about unique original art in Florida. Also, here in the Heartland, a Plein Air Paint-out competition will be held in Arcadia on November 14. This annual event is put on by the DeSoto Arts and Humanities Council. You can go to their website for more information: www. desotoartcouncil.org. ¢
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Sculpture should bring joy to your eyes and peace to your soul.
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By Adam Glinski, Trainer/Founder RUC Fitness
Pro Tips for Fitness At Home
W
ith the wealth of knowledge, do-it-yourself equipment projects, and gym alternatives available today, fitness is becoming more accessible to everyone. In-home workouts are becoming an increasingly viable option for busy professionals or anyone who wants to stay out of a gym. While personal trainers are great for expert advice, accountability, and ensuring a correct form, some people feel more comfortable going it on their own. For the go-getters who want to exercise outside of traditional settings, here are some pro tips for getting fit at home.
Get Outside- As the Heartland’s summer fades into
fall, the weather is becoming much more enjoyable. Get outside for some sunshine and fresh air. Most of us could use the extra Vitamin D and time outside is a great morale booster. Go for a walk, run, play with your kids or grand kids, or simply move your exercise routine outside. According to the American Heart Association, 30 minutes of moderate physical activity or walking each day can lower blood pressure and reduce the risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
Bodyweight Exercises- Bodyweight exercises use
your body's own weight for strength training, burning fat, and building muscle. Some of the fittest individuals on the planet have gotten there doing basic bodyweight exercises such as air squats, push-ups, lunges, crunches, and pull-ups. These exercises can also be some of the safest when done with proper form. A simple circuit type workout of these exercises will challenge your major muscle groups, burn calories, and get your heart pumping.
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PVC Pipe- A thick walled piece of one inch PVC pipe makes
a great inexpensive companion for home workouts. Cut to approximately five feet in length, it can be used to assist balance while performing squats and lunges, stretching, or as practice for movements that would normally involve a barbell. If you are looking for a little more of a challenge you can fill the pipe with sand, cap off the ends, and use it as a weight for squats, dead lifts, and overhead presses.
Milk Jugs- Standard gallon or half gallon milk and water jugs are great improvised weights for the at home fitness enthusiast. They can be filled with water or sand to add weight and can easily be adjusted accordingly. They work great for curls, farmer carries, lunges, or anything that could normally be done with dumbbells. Wrap the handles with athletic tape or duct tape for increased comfort. There is no better way to take care of you and feel better about yourself than exercise. Bodyweight exercises, some basic equipment, and a little fresh air are great starts to any fitness program. Now is a great time to get started and have fun with it. You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting exercise or any fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. ¢
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2
Woman By Jessica Pleger
Woman
Passionate About Motivating and Enriching the Lives of Women.
To say Jennifer Goodson wears many hats is an understatement but this wife, to
world renowned artist Keith and mother of three, is passionate about motivating and enriching the lives of women. A resident of Auburndale, Florida, Jennifer is a motivational speaker, writer, life coach, pastor, and counselor, to name a few. Her passion to motivate women came to fruition in her home office in 2008 by the means of “Brake 5”, a bi-weekly devotional designed for women throughout the United States and abroad and she allowed the Lord to take control from there. What began as only a network of 12 women, sharing their stories and encouraging one another has grown into a much larger triumph. Her devotionals are now part of her “Brake 5” website that has over 3,800 followers in the United States and over 47 countries. The concept of Brake 5 is Real Women, loving a Real God, creating with Real Purpose. It focuses on building up the mind, body, and spirit of women by bringing biblical foundations and practical experiences. Brake 5 focuses on mentorship/ discipleship programs, international online small groups, weekly one on one pastoral counseling sessions, and annual women's conferences. These counseling opportunities cover topics a wide variety of topics such as Marriage, Parenting, Physical and Substance Abuse and Finding Purpose of Life. On a smaller scope, Brake 5 subscribers receive blogs that are sent out twice a month through emails as well as joining the groups via Facebook, Twitter and the website. It is a free subscription for individuals as well as network subscriptions that are geared toward churches to offer support of women who are traveling through or do not have a church home. Goodson inspires women to use the obstacles and experiences from their past to help find their true self-worth and motivate them toward overcoming difficulties they might face in their future endeavors. She has had the opportunity to change the lives of women to help them overcome their struggles from helping a homeless woman in Rhode Island who she helped find a home and a job to a woman who desired to go to rehabilitation to get her life back on track that is now married and going to college. If there is a problem that Jennifer is not currently licensed to handle, she has the resources of licensed colleagues that she can refer the women to so they receive the help that is needed. Every Saturday morning Jennifer and a group of five intercessors gather together to pray for the requests of women across
Heartland LIVING October November 2015
the world. She also counsels 10 – 20 women weekly either face to face or by Skype. These women have contacted her by word of mouth, social media or the Brake 5 website. These are just a few examples of the ways she is touching the lives of women who have reached out to her for coaching, mentoring or just a simple prayer request. If her plate wasn’t full enough, Jennifer recently finished two Bachelor Degrees, one in Psychology and the other in Applied Behavioral Sciences. Her goal is to then further her education by attending Regent University in 2016 to obtain her Master Degree in Counseling and Licenser as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. This will allow her to counsel women on a broader spectrum.
Brake 5 is bigger than Jennifer ever imagined and still evolving. When I asked about her hope for the future of Brake 5, she said her goal isn’t growth; her goal is to change lives and make a difference in the lives of others so that they can continue to share their story and influence the life of someone else. If you or someone you know has been struggling with personal growth, take the opportunity to contact Jennifer or visit her website www.brake5. wordpress.com. ¢
Brake 5 holds an annual women’s conference and this year’s event, SHE Velocity, is scheduled for February 19 – 21, 2016 in Lake Placid, Florida. It is a weekend of adventure, spiritual growth, making memories, and building relationships. This is the third year for the annual event and only 10 percent of attendees and team members of this event are local, the remainder travels from all over the United States and even from other countries. Her team was born out of relationships she has built through her ministry. This event is truly a testament of her hard work and dedication to helping women through spiritual rejuvenation, fellowship and serving the Lord.
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AGRICULTURE
In The Heartland By: Audra Clemons
Over the past year, H5N2, the newest version of bird flu has killed more than 48 million chickens and turkeys in the United States. To date, the USDA and farmers are more prepared than ever should it return this fall. The bird flu is thought to be spread by wild birds on their migration routes north and south, meaning that it is a threat mainly during the spring and fall when the birds travel distances; the states affected the hardest have been in the Midwest. However, consumers across the country felt the last outbreak as it increased egg prices everywhere. Recently, the USDA reported tracking the volatile price of chicken eggs in the United States, and it painted a disturbing picture. In the month of May this past year, the average grade A or better egg prices nationwide leapt from $1.22 to $1.95 in one week. Here’s what is strange: Avian flu appears to affect only egg-laying hens, rather than the chickens raised for meat (aka: broiler chickens). The supply of eggs is down but the supply of broiler chickens, and thus chicken meat, is fairly constant. The reason chicken prices are going down is because the demand outside the country has plummeted (China and South Korea have banned all poultry products from the United States). Although H5N2 appears to be stabilized right now, both farmers and the USDA are prepared should there be a comeback this fall, having stockpiled enough vaccine to stop at least 500 outbreaks – twice as many as occurred during the last bout of bird flu.
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Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack reported that the USDA has what appears to be a very effective vaccine, but the vaccine won’t stop outbreaks from occurring; it’ll simply stop birds from producing more of the virus, retarding the spread. However, as foreign trading partners won’t purchase vaccinated birds, these vaccines aren’t being issued by the USDA, only purchased and held in case another outbreak should occur. As the virus is highly contagious, spreading from bird-to-bird and even introduced by hitchhiking on clothes, many larger farm operations have turned away outside visitors. Smaller farms and backyard operations are at higher risk, as they aren’t tapped into industry information and held accountable to the same operational standards as larger farms. The government is encouraging poultry owners to register their flock no matter how small, in case there is exposure to the virus. The Avian flu is yet another reminder of how challenging farming is. ¢
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Southern Chef Southern Recipes by Layne Prescott
ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SAUSAGE LASAGNA 1 large butternut squash 1 large Vidalia onion Thyme Olive Oil Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder 2 lbs favorite bulk sausage (Jimmy Dean-regular and Sage) Cheese Sauce: 1 stick butter (plus EVOO) 1 cup flour - 4 cups milk 2 cups grated cheese (asiago, Parmesan or cheddar or all three)
ITALIAN FL scuits 1 can layered bi uit bisc Separate each ye into 4 la rs
1 box (plus part of one) lasagna noodles Extra cheese for topping Bread Crumbs (homemade or store bought) Lasagna prepared in three segments: 1. Roast Squash and onions 2. Brown Sausage 3. Prepare Cheese Sauce Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Squash – peel, cut in half, and remove seeds. Dice squash in 1 inch cubes. Peel onion, cut in half and slice. Coat onion and squash with olive oil. Add seasonings. Roast in foil lined pan in hot oven for 20-30 minutes. Sausage: Brown in skillet, drain. Set aside. Cheese Sauce – Using items for “Cheese Sauce” and make
traditional cheese sauce. Layer ingredients – 9” x 13” lasagna pan starting with small amount of cheese sauce then layer lasagna noodles, cheese sauce, butternut squash and onions, sausage. Repeat. Top with additional cheese and bread crumbs. Bake at 350 degrees until bubbly and slightly browned on top
ATBREAD
mayonnaise Topping: 1 cup rmesan cheese 1 cup grated Pa ian seasoning al 2 tablespoon It
g 375 degrees. non-stick cookin Preheat oven to and spray with il fo um in um t with al Line cookie shee topping mixture spray. 2 tablespoons of 1ad re Sp n. scuits on pa . Place divided bi yer to within ¼ inch of edge la t ui sc ing is bubbly over each bi owned and topp br is h ug do t ui grees until bisc Bake at 375 de and browned.
GUAVA POUNDCAKE
Adapted from Mama's Sour Cream Poundcake
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1 Cup butter or margarine (softened) 2 Cups sugar 4 eggs 2 tsp. Vanilla 3 Cups all purpose flour ¾ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon soda ½ teaspoon baking powder
Instead of: 1 Cup sour cream use ¼ Cup milk Use: 2 cups processed guavas with juice Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time – beat well after each. Add vanilla. Combine dry ingredients. Add dry ingredients alternately with guava liquids. Bake at 300 degrees – 1 hour (Preheat)
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Cang Tong
Japanese Steak House + Sushi + Chinese 110 Sebring Square | Sebring | 863.386.1924 Enjoy dining in a casual comfortable atmosphere at our new location with a new menu. Personal Chefs prepare your meal the way you want it, right at your table. Try our unique variety of sushi rolls including everyone’s favorite roll the OMG, it consists of spicy salmon and avocado topped with avocado and sweet delicious mango. We also have a wide variety of Chinese specialties. Come visit us for a fun experience and a melt in your mouth taste. Take-out or Delivery and Catering | Menu Highlights: Daily Sushi Roll specials, Hibachi Filet Mignon and Lobster, Sesame Chicken, Lo Mein, Fried Cheesecake. Sunday - Thursday | 11 am – 9 pm Friday and Saturday | 11 am –10 pm
www.CangTongSebring.com
See ad on page 77
Eighteen East
Restaurant and Bar 18 East Main Street | Avon Park | 863.453.1818 Downtown Avon Park Eighteen East is a restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Avon Park, serving the area’s best steaks. We offer a large selection of American food with creative new menu items added regularly. The historic brick décor gives a pub-type atmosphere where local artists perform throughout the week. Eighteen East is a favorite with locals and a guaranteed enjoyable experience. Appetizers: Pan Seared Ahi-Tuna; Hog Wings; Grilled Chicken Nachos Entrees: Eighteen East Signature Burger; Prime Rib Reuben; Filet; Giant Shrimp Ravioli. Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 4 pm - 9:30 pm Call for Live Entertainment Schedule.
www.beststeakaround.com
Eighteen East 100
... a restaurant and bar!
See ad on page 61
Island View
Lakefront Restaurant & Pub 5223 Sun N Lake Blvd.| Sebring | 863-382-1191 Island View Lakefront Restaurant offers a unique dining experience like no other in Highlands County. We offer a variety of great American food from fried green tomatoes, ribs, and a variety of sandwiches to our Friday Night Prime Rib dinners. Our Sunset Dining menu includes dinner and house beer, wine or soda starting at $11.00. Monday – Saturday 11 am – 8 pm Sunday 11 am – 5:30 pm Bar Services and Light Sandwiches Served Sunset Dining: Monday – Saturday 3:30 – 7:30 pm Every Friday Night join us for Chef Kevin’s Famous Prime Rib Dinner Reservations are always recommended 863-382-1191. www.IslandViewRestaurant.com
See ad on page 60
High Noon Café & Crystal Ballroom at The OK Corral Gun Club
9449 NE 48th Street | Okeechobee | 863-357-2226 Casual gourmet lunch served daily in an atmosphere of rustic southern elegance with a stylish western flair. Tantalizing mouth-watering appetizers prepared by our Executive Chef include: The Corral Thai Chili Chicken Wings, Florida Gator Bites and Pulled Pork Quesadillas along with assorted creative Flatbread Pizzas. Local specialties inspire signature entrees like the American Bison Sloppy Joe and the hearty OK Corral Burger. Sit back and relax anytime with your favorite beer, wine and spirits dining inside or on the porch. Host your special event for up to 300 guests for an unforgettable celebration! GRILLIN' CHILLIN' SHOOTIN' Lunch Served 7 Days a Week 11 am – 4 pm Friday Sundown Suppers: "Chuck Wagon Buffet" every Friday Night 6 pm - 8 pm Sunday Brunch Buffet 10 am - 2 pm. (Reservations Preferred) www.okcorralgunclub.com
See ad on page 68
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Hearing Services Designed f� Your Individual Care Lampe & Kiefer Hearing Aid Center is the oldest established hearing aid office in Highlands County. Established 1968 and Voted #1 Hearing Aid Office.
“Not Just a Brand ... A Way of Life” ALL THE COMFORTS OF A MODERN HOME
Computerized Hearing Aids Hearing Accessories Repairs on all Makes & Models FREE Cleaning Services Rehabilitation Services - Earwax Removal Counseling - Seminars Specializing in hard to fit hearing loss
863-385-3497
130 S. Commerce Avenue - Sebring
Extended Stay
www.lampekieferhearing.com
Barbara Landers Kesselring Roseann Kiefer Bonnie Kesselring Patient Coordinator, LPN
B.A.-BC-HIS
Office Manager
Newly Remodeled Room ALL Suites with Lake Views Complimentary Buffet Breakfast High Speed Wireless Internet Golf & Romance Packages Centrally Located to All Major Arteries Pet Friendly
Repair Service Mobile Phone Shop iPhone - iPad - iPod Samsung Galaxy Broken or Cracked Glass Black or White Screen
863-314-9100
3221 Tubbs Rd. & US 27 South Sebring, Florida 33870
www.Marriott.com/sefri
863.381.1020 George Whitehurst George@wirelessrehab.net
www.wirelessrehab.net
Residential & Commercial Services We install, repair and offer planned maintenance of air and heating systems, pool heat pumps and ice machines.
863-453-3453
Serving Highlands, Hardee and Polk Counties Since 1960
Toll Free 1-800-684-34523 • Fax 863-453-3327
2731 Oak Island Road, Avon Park, FL 33825 Email: ridgeair@vistanet.net
Alligator Pack and Ship We do it all for you.
Gator Aid Frequent Shipper Program
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Best Price Guarantee
We Accept Competitors Coupons
• UPS/FedEx/DHL/US Postal • Estate Packing & Shipping • Freight Services • Furniture Shipping • Boxes/Packing Supplies • Mail Box Rental New! Courier/Delivery Service
Mention this ad for 10% OFF Fed Ex & UPS Free Pick-Up Available
4200 Sebring Parkway (Across from Homers)
863-382-1890
9-5 www.gatorpackandship.com Mon-Fri Sat 9-2
Heartland
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DESOTO COUNTY SCENE
Arcadia Youth Rodeo Association Season Kick-Off Photos by Bill Wright
The Arcadia Youth Rodeo Association (AYRA) kicked off its season on September 19 at the Arcadia Rodeo Arena. The AYRA has members from all over the state, age 4 to 18, to compete in a 14 event amateur rodeo competition. The next rodeo is scheduled for October 31 and supports the fight against breast cancer. For more information on this non-profit organization, visit their website at www.arcadiayouthrodeo.com.
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DeSoto County Calendar of EVENTS October 3
Farmer’s Market
9am – 2pm | Tree of Knowledge Park Historic Downtown Arcadia October 17
Vintage Car Show
5pm – 9pm | Oak Street | Arcadia October 17
Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo 2pm | Arcadia Rodeo Arena | Arcadia October 24
Antique Fair
Historic Downtown Arcadia November 7
Farmer’s Market
9am – 2pm | Tree of Knowledge Park Historic Downtown Arcadia November 7
Arcadia Heritage Festival BBQ Contest TBA | Historic Downtown | Arcadia November 12
2015 Ag Fest Banquet
6pm | Turner Center | Arcadia November 14
Third Annual Arcadia Plein Air Paint-out Downtown Arcadia
November 21
Vintage Car Show
5pm – 9pm | Oak Street | Arcadia November 28
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Antique Fair
Historic Downtown Arcadia
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HARDEE COUNTY SCENE
Wildcat Tailgate Party Main Street Wauchula presented the Wildcat Tailgate Party on August 7 in Heritage Park. The crowd received a unique “Back to School� painting by special guest Graffiti Artist Rolf Hellum-Brusso. There were kids activities, Wildcat Cheerleaders, the Hardee High School Blue Star Brigade, vendors and an opportunity to graffiti your own t-shirt. The Blackbird Anthem entertained the crowd while they shopped, ate and enjoyed the evening festivities. Photos Courtesy of Main Street Wauchula
Wildcat Cheerleaders.
Above: Graffiti Artist Rolf Hellum-Brusso with kids. Left: Hardee County Fair Pageant winners.
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Graffiti Artist Rolf Hellum-Brusso
Main Street Wauchula Board of Directors.
Hardee County Calendar of EVENTS October 10
Hardee Athletic Foundation
Induction Ceremony & Hall of Fame Dinner 6pm | Florida’s First Assembly | Wauchula October 17 Blackbird Anthem band.
Heirlooms & Originals
8am – 3pm | Main Street Market | Wauchula October 31
Fall Festival
4pm - 7pm | Main Street Heritage Park | Wauchula November 7
Hoofin' It On Main
www.MainStreetWauchula.com for more info. November 20
Wine, Shop & Dine
Heartland
TBD | Various Shops | Downtown Wauchula
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October November 2015
Freedom Ride 8am – 2pm | Heritage Park | Wauchula
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HIGHLANDS COUNTY SCENE
The Palms Apple Festival Photos by Katara Simmons The Palms of Sebring held its 19th annual Apple Festival September 24 through 26. All three days Chef Mac was baking his famous Apple Dumplings in The Palms kitchen. There were also other treats available such as apple butter and jellies, apple cakes and pumpkin breads, to name a few. The theme “All That’s Fall” was accompanied with seasonal country décor for purchasing. All proceeds benefitted resident activities at The Palms of Sebring.
Marcel Miranda and Baldy Miranda serves a festival visitor.
Grace Moser and Sharon Kesselring organize baked goods.
Palms of Sebring Wellness Director Adele Dornheim.
Chef Mac of The Palms of Sebring
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Palms of Sebring resident E.J. Thomas. (Left): Deborah Cwalinski
Lake Jackson Clean-Up Day On September 12, the community held a Lake Jackson Clean-Up Day organized by Carole Cook and Christy Reed of Keeping Highlands County Beautiful. Over 100 volunteers with the assistance of boats, kayaks and airboats gathered at Veterans Beach to help with the cleaning effort of the 3,400 acre lake. The Highlands County Lakes Association also assisted with the cleanup. There were several local sponsors for the event which they hope to make an annual occasion.
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HIGHLANDS COUNTY SCENE
Rock'n Heartland Youth Triathlon Photos by Katara Simmons The Fourth Annual Rock'n Heartland Youth Triathlon Series has come to an end with over 150 participants in the two race series. Youth participants traveled from throughout Central Florida to compete is this unique youth specific event with an adult twist at the final race seeing over a dozen adult participants competing on the South Florida State College course. Event organizers were pleased with this year's turn-out and have big plans for 2016 in the hopes of creating "Family Fun Days" surrounding each event. For more information contact Laura Andrews at 253-1137 or e-mail: teamtripower@gmail.com.
Jamilynn Davidson, Sebring
David (Oren) Stephens, Sebring
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Daniel Parker, Lakeland
Highlands County Calendar of EVENTS October 5
Bridal Expo
6pm – 8pm | Island View Restaurant | Sebring October 15
Hailey Bryant, Wauchula
Carlton Ward Presentation Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition 6pm | Highlands Art League | Sebring October 23 & 24
3rd Annual Haunted Hammock
5:30pm – 10pm | Highlands Hammock State Park | Sebring October 24
Pink Army Strut by Florida Hospital 4pm – 7pm | Downtown Sebring October 24
Highway Park Founders' Day Celebration TBD | Highway Park | Lake Placid
Brynlee Dunham, Weston
November (select nights)
The King & I
Highlands Little Theatre | Sebring Please visit www.highlandslittletheatre.com for times November 5
Florida Hospital Foundation 21st Annual Gala Dinner & Silent Auction
21st Annual Gala Concert Featuring RODNEY ATKINS 5pm Dinner | 8pm Concert | South Florida State College | Sebring November 6
21st Annual Florida Hospital Foundation Golf Tournament 7:30am | Sun N’ Lakes Golf Club | Sebring
Logan Shell, Tampa
November 7
49th Annual Fine Arts & Crafts Festival 9am – 4pm | Downtown Sebring November 8
21st Annual Florida Hospital Foundation 5K Run/Walk & 10K
6:30am | Florida Hospital Heartland Medical Center | Sebring November 11
Veterans Day Parade
11am – 1pm | Downtown Sebring November 14
Civilian Conservation Corps Festival
1pm – 4pm | Highlands Hammock State Park | Sebring Kaden Roberts, Sebring
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OKEECHOBEE COUNTY SCENE
B.R.A.T Club Labor Day Ranch Rodeo Photos by Sharon Cannon The Building Relationships Among Teens (B.R.A.T.) Club, Inc. continued the Okeechobee Labor Day tradition by hosting a Ranch Rodeo at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center on September 5. After learning that the Okeechobee Cattleman’s Association decided not to hold the event, the B.R.A.T. Club board responded to the desires of the local residence and got to work to fulfill the tradition of an amazing rodeo.
(L-R) Miss Rodeo Okeechobee Princess, Alexandra Skye; Miss Teen Rodeo Okeechobee, Caitlyn Albers and Miss Rodeo Okeechobee, Tihler Browning.
Victoria Duke with son Garrett.
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Gilbert Ford Flag Dedication Photos by Sharon Cannon
The Gilbert Family of Companies held a flag dedication on September 11 at Gilbert Ford. This ceremony honored Veterans and First Responders while the flag was raised for the first time. The Honorable Judge Jerald (Jerry) Bryant spoke to the crowd about the flag and thanked the servicemen for their dedication to our country. Following the ceremony the attendees were invited to join for drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
(L-R): Mark Luna, Christa Luna, Grace Luna, Alexz Luna, Judge Jerry Bryant, Gil Culbreth, Marie Culbreth, Krissy Culbreth, Madelyn Culbreth, and Bert Culbreth.
Judge Jerald (Jerry) Bryant.
Okeechobee County Sheriff Department deputies raise the flag.
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Easton Garrett proudly holds the flag.
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OKEECHOBEE COUNTY SCENE
Artist Reception Honoring W.R. Nager, Sculptor Photos by Sharon Cannon
Okeechobee Main Street’s Art & Culture Committee held an Artist Reception honoring Sculptor W.R. (Ray) Nager of Lakeland, FL on August 20 inside the beautiful Okeechobee Historic County Courthouse lobby. The reception was to celebrate Okeechobee’s first outdoor public art sculpture “Ready To Run” that was placed at the entrance of the Historic Courthouse. Other pieces of the sculptor’s artwork were on display in the lobby during the reception.
Many attended the reception held at the Historical Okeechobee County Courthouse.
Okeechobee County Commissioners, Terry Burroughs, Margaret Gerrard Helton, Frank Irby, County Administrator Robbie Chartier and Sculptor Ray Nager.
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Art work of Ray Nager was on display for the night of the reception.
OKMS Arts & Culture director Bridgette Waldau prepares to introduce the artist.
Shirley Palmer and Ray Nager.
Nager with OKMS board members: President Maureen Burroughs, Executive Director Sharie Turgeon, Arts & Culture Director Bridgette Waldau and Mark Bragel.
County Commissioner Frank Irby and his wife Brigitte with Nager.
Okeechobee County Calendar of EVENTS October
David Noyner Art Exhibit Sept. 23 - Nov. 15
Okeechobee Main Street Artists Series Monday-Friday | 9 am - 5 pm Historical County Courthouse | Okeechobee October 10
Heritage Day Festival City Of Okeechobee Centennial Event
10 am –2 pm | Freshman Campus | Okeechobee
Marilyn Hadden and Nager's wife, Pattie.
"Spirits of Okeechobee" Okeechobee Community Theatre
Special Free showing as part of the Heritage Festival. 10:15, 11:15 a.m.,12:45 & 1:45 pm Okeechobee Community Theatre | Okeechobee October 21
Business of the Year Luncheon Awards Okeechobee County Chamber of Commerce
11:45 am – 1 pm | Indian River State College | Okeechobee November 14
Craft Fair in the Woods
9 am - 3 pm | Freedom Ranch | Okeechobee November 6,7,13 & 14
"Spirits of Okeechobee" Okeechobee Community Theatre
Jim Waldau and Mark Bragel.
8:00 pm each evening; 2:00 pm matinee on Nov. 14 Okeechobee Community Theatre | Okeechobee
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POLK COUNTY SCENE
Sixth Annual Stepping Out For Education
Photos by Amber Callaham
Dinner & “ Dancing with the Stars” Style Competition was held on September 25th at The Lakeland Center. Stepping Out for Education is Polk County’s version of Dancing with the Stars.
Winners of Stepping Out for Education
Professional dancer Debbie Kallenborn and celebrity dancer Matt Mucci.
Professional dancer Ben Castellano and celebrity dancer Stephanie Colon.
Professional dancer Mona Hofmann and celebrity dancer Craig Clevenger.
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Six community celebrities were taught two ballroom dances by a professional partner and performed them in front of judges. Guests enjoyed a fine dinner as the six contestants showed off their dancing skills, developed over the past two months at Lakeland Ballroom. Sponsorships along with $1 votes cast for dancers to win the coveted “People’s Choice” Award, funds raised to support programs and services provided by the Polk Education Foundation. People’s Choice award went to Debbie Kallenborn and Matt Mucci.
Professional dancer Ben Castellano and celebrity dancer Elizabeth Waraksa.
Professional dancer Gene Kallenborn and celebrity dancer Emily Spath Clark.
(L-R): Holly Bowles, Elizabeth Waraksa (contestant) and Kim Williams.
Jason Daniel and Sarah Chevrier.
Teresa & Terrell Griffin and Kyle & Karen Winningham.
Jennifer, Chris, Brian and Rachel Spath.
Ron and Malonie Ayers.
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Kelly Kreiger, Tracy Scheck, Jan Hyman (Winner in 2012), Nancy Kreiger and Sheryll Strang.
Michael Micallef, Stephanie Colon and Carol Micallef.
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POLK COUNTY SCENE
United Way Celebration Photos by Amber Callaham
United Way of Central Florida Young Leaders Society held its 2015 Campaign Celebration on September 24 at the Pasture Club in Lakeland. Live music by local Nashville recording artists music Rounds on the Road featuring The Truitts – Brett & Brigetta, Briana Tyson and JD Wylkes.
Steven Wright, Lauren Jensen, Marjorie West and Kelsey Dukesherer.
Rounds on the Road band.
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(L-R): Karen Crain, Nolan Bailey, Jonathan Crain, Michael & Christine Ehlenbeck and Mrs. & Mr. Fulton.
Katherine Schichtel and Katherine Fitzwater.
Sara Cooke and Ralph Schofield.
Gregg and Ileana Kniss.
Polk County Calendar of EVENTS October 8 Food Truck Rally 6pm – 9pm | Munn Park | Downtown Lakeland October 16 Oktoberfest 6:30pm – 9pm | Central Park | Winter Haven
Jennifer Kincart Jonsson and Greta Dupuy.
October 16 - 18 Annual Lake Mirror Classic Auto Festival & Auction Lake Mirror | Lakeland October 21 Boktoberfest Plant Sale 8am – 5pm | Bok Tower Gardens | Lake Wales
October 30 – November 1 CornFusion Crop Maze & Fall Festival Smith Family Ranch | Lakeland November 4 – 7 20th Annual Fall Fuel Up Florida Flywheelers | Ft. Meade Meranda Landes, Rhiannon Brownell and Holly Arthur.
November 7 Red Ribbon Fun Run, Half Marathon & 5K 7am – 11am | Lake Mirror | Lakeland November 12 Food Truck Rally 6pm – 9pm | Munn Park | Downtown Lakeland November 13 Annual J.S.L. Boots & Pearls Dinner 6:30pm | Sackett Ranch | Lakeland November 20 Main Street Bartow Friday Fest 6pm – 9pm | Main Street | Bartow
Committee Member Derek Oxford addresses the crowd.
November 21 Haven Holiday Market 9am – 4pm | Central Park | Winter Haven
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Heartland
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Heartland LIVING is your very own Lifestyle Community Magazine.
Get all 6 publications mailed directly to your home for $29.95. To Subscribe Visit our Website at
www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com
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Pay directly online or mail us your information with your check, made out to Heartland Publications. Mailing Address: Heartland Publications 412 Rest Haven Road | Zolfo Springs, FL 33890
Never Miss an Issue of Your Heartland Lifestyle Magazine
• Wheat Free/Gluten Free • Probiotics • Natural & Organic Food • Vitamins • Omega Oils Herbs • Essential Oils • Aroma Therapy • Paleo Foods • Raw Foods • Ionized Alkaline Water
Crafter’s & Grower’s Market
Now Accepting EBT
3rd Saturday of the Month
Food for Thought will have Organic Produce at the Grower’s Market October 17th & November 21st
Over 70 Bulk Foods
Offering Natural Beauty Products!
20% Everyday Discounts On All Garden of Life & New Chapter Supplements
301 US 27 N. Sebring, FL 33870 Open: Mon - Fri 9-6 & Saturday 9-5
Visit Historic Downtown Sebring October
November
Look for Halloween events and happenings for Kids & Adults during the month of October Downtown Sebring merchants are also offering Spooktacular Specials !
November in Downtown Sebring is time to enjoy food and cultural events!
Also many specials from the downtown merchants!
Heartland LIVING
For more information on events and merchant specials visit:
www.DowntownSebring.org
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The Company that Supports You Like Family Supporting those who have dealt with domestic violence.
“In honor of you!"
"Here with helping hands and open hearts."
thin, k and ic h t h g !" "Throu support you we
“In h onor of y ou
!" work for a “It's wonderful to constantly company that is s causes." supporting awarenes
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
500
Over
NEW and Pre-Owned Vehicles to Choose From!
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(863) 763-2121
3175 U.S. Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
www.Gilbert-Ford.com
When it comes to finding a doctor, we’ve got you covered.
Rediscover Highlands Medical Group.
Whether you need a primary care physician, a surgeon or other specialist, you can feel confident turning to the dedicated doctors of Highlands Medical Group. We offer same- and next-day appointments. To reach a physician, call 863-471-0165, or visit HighlandsMedicalGroup.com. BREAST & GENERAL SURGERY L. Francisco Espaillat, M.D. FAMILY MEDICINE Donald Ware, D.O. GASTROENTEROLOGY Jessica Narvaez-Lugo, M.D.
INTERNAL MEDICINE Euclides Marmolejos-Baez, M.D. Robert Midence, M.D. James Ruch, PA-C ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY Tahir S. Chaudhri, M.D.
UROLOGY Kwabena Pobi, M.D. VASCULAR SURGERY M. Braimah Saaka, M.D.
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