Heartland LIVING Magazine Aug & Sep 2022 Issue

Heartland LIVING August & September 2022

NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS

2022 Miss Florida USA

August & September 2022

“Our restaurant business is all about customer service.

That’s why we buy vehicles at Gilbert Chevrolet; they know how to give great customer service! I love it. Why would we ever go anywhere else? Gilbert’s makes you feel right at home.”

- Doug & Sandy Vest Okeechobee, FL 34974 ° www.GilbertChevrolet.com

Owners of Pogey’s Restaurant

3550 US Highway 441 South

(863)763-3154

°

August & September 2022 3

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Celebrity GOLF TOURNAMENT Friday, November 4

8:30 am Shotgun Start | Sun ‘n Lake Golf Club

The AdventHealth Sebring Foundation Board of Directors and Tournament Chair, Thomas ‘Flash’ Gordon, invite you to join us for a Celebrity Golf Tournament, benefiting the construction and implementation of a 25,000+ sq. ft. health and wellness facility, on the grounds of AdventHealth Sebring.

To register, learn more, or explore support opportunities AdventHealthSebringFoundation.com 863-402-5525 RSVP by October 16, 2022

GET YOUR Back 2 School

SMILE Ready!

With Dr. Maye joining our team, we now have more availability to accommodate your child’s dental needs!

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40

CPonies A Journey of Rehabilitation and Relaxation Riding the Beaches and Trails of Florida

By Katy Fassler

6

ONTENT

August & September 2022 Volume 11  Issue 4

FEATURES 22

Taylor Fulford 2022 Miss Florida USA Never Give Up On Your Dream

By Bridgette Waldau

56

Food Truck Road Trip Our Experience at the Lakeland Food Truck Rally

By Christy Swift

72

A Day Or Weekend Adventure Fort Pierce Farmers Market

By Amanda Armentrout

40 August & September 2022 7

CONTENT

80

August & September 2022 Volume 11  Issue 4

NOTEWORTHY 80

Hobby Hill Florist A New Chapter

By Katy Fassler

96

Family Volunteerism

By Kimberly Blaker

FOOD & HEALTH 88

Easy and Healthy Back to School Lunch Ideas for Your Kids!

By Cindy Adams

DEPARTMENTS

10 Letter from the Publisher 14 Behind the Scene 18 From our Readers

Heartland LIVING August & September 2022

August & September 2022

NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS

88 8

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

TaylorFulford 2022 Miss Florida USA

COVER Taylor Fulford 2022 Miss Florida USA Photography by

Lizzy Sanchez

Your Smile is our Passion!

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L

etter fromTHE PUBLISHER

W

elcome and thank you for picking up our August & September Issue. I hope you enjoy everything in this issue that my team and I worked so hard to create for you. I have learned while doing research for the magazine that every person on this planet has a story to tell, something that makes him or her unique. We are all adding something to the world by sharing our stories and we are happy to share them with you.

Again, everyone has a story to tell if we take the time to listen. We are so accustomed to hearing the stories in the news of people all over the world that we sometimes lose track of the fact that the random stranger in our community also has a fascinating story about where they came from and how they got to be where they are. The sheer variety of paths taken in this world, from farmers to CEOs to homeless people and to world travelers, is indicative of how much we can learn.

Sometimes the shy, quiet person at work has the most amazing life story and the biggest dreams, it is up to us to take the time to find out.

We want to share with you the story from our Okeechobee Community of an amazing young life we have been following for years of her big dreams. Congratulations to Taylor Fulford for being crowned 2022 Miss Florida USA and thank you for gracing our cover and making it so beautiful, one of my favorites. Taylor is not only a beautiful young lady on the outside but has a caring heart on the inside.

When you read her story and the challenges she has faced and overcome, I know it will touch your heart as well as it did ours. Congratulations again Taylor, all of us at Heartland LIVING will be following your journey as Miss Florida USA this year and your future endeavors.

As you go through the pages of this issue you will find all the different stories we found about places and people that we feel you will enjoy reading. I invite you start turning the pages with unique stories from ponies to adventures at farmers market, and food trucks that I was happy to attend with a team of young food critics.

They were such great young teens to be around.

I also want to congratulate a friend of mine that I have known for as long as I can remember from growing up in Sebring. Ladonna Paedae Rodriguez has decided to take a break and retire from her florist business.

Congratulations to the new owners, Brooke and Andrew McDermott, on your new adventure. Please support the McDermotts on their new business journey and we thank them for their support and advertising in Heartland LIVING. You can see their ad on page 65.

Please keep sharing all your ideas, stories and comments with us. Most importantly, please support our advertisers; we couldn’t create this without their support.

God Bless,

Cindy Sebring Adams 10

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

August & September 2022 11

Heartland

LIVING

Heartland LIVING August & September 2022

August & September 2022

NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS

August & September 2022 Volume 11  Issue 4

TaylorFulford 2022 Miss Florida USA

CEO | Publisher Cindy Sebring Adams

Creative Director Bridgette Waldau

Editor Christy Swift

Photography Director Rafael Pacheco

Feature Writers Amanda Armentrout Kimberly Blaker Katy Fassler Christy Swift Bridgette Waldau

Cover Photographer Lizzy Sanchez

Published by

Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc.

Feature Photographers Amanda Armentrout Carmen Hanson

Proud Recipient of 18 Contact: 412 Rest Haven Road, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 863-781-0344

In the Following Categories:

E-mail

Best Overall Design

Cindy@Heartland-Living.com Become a fan on facebook

www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

Charlie Awards

2014 - 2021

Best Department Design (2) Best Feature Design (4) Cover Photo Illustration Best Traditional Illustration Best Self-Promotional Ad Best Table of Contents Best Department Design Best Photography Image (3) Best Overall Writing Best Custom Publication (2)

Florida Magazine Association

Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing, Inc. Copyright 2022, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher.

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

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BEHIND THE SCENES

August & September 2022

Photography Director

Creative Director

BRIDGETTE WALDAU has been a graphic

and fine artist for over 30 years. 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 art studio. Bridgette has been creative director for several publications, working with Heartland Publications & Marketing as art director since 2011, winning eleven Florida Magazine Charlie Awards (2015- 2021). She is Arts & Culture Alliance Director (17 years) for Okeechobee Main Street. Bridgette is married to James Waldau, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.

RAFAEL PACHECO I am a Pisces and was

born on the island of Puerto Rico. 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. 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.

Editor | Writer

Writer | Photographer

AMANDA ARMENTROUT is a wife and

CHRISTY SWIFT has been a freelance

mother of two as well as a local business owner. She has lived in the Heartland for over 25 years. Her hobbies include spending time with family, sports, travel, art, shopping, and curling up with a great book, with an excellent glass of wine.

writer for over 13 years, working as an award-winning newspaper correspondent, magazine article writer, and web and social media content provider. She is also a soonto-be published author of Young Adult and Adult fiction. You can find her at www. christyswift.com.

Writer

Writer KIMBERLY BLAKER is a freelance writer.

She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-ofprint, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com

KATY FASSLER has been telling stories

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

"Every GREAT design begins with an

even BETTER story."

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

- Lorinda Mamo, designer

August & September 2022 15

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

The Villages of Highlands Ridge 36 Holes of Championship Golf

is home to 635 families that live in beautiful homes with beautiful views. There are 150 completely ready to build homesites available. All infrastructure is in place.

This is a golf cart friendly community. Actually, it is a golf cart preferred community. A full-time event coordinator keeps everybody as busy as they can be. Not to mention, besides the golf courses, there is bocce ball, pickle ball, basketball, tennis, shuffleboard courts, and two swimming pools, two restaurants, two club houses and two pro shops.

Lake Bonnet is adjacent to this property. There are two piers on Lake Bonnet, one is for watching beautiful sunsets; the second dock is next to the private boat ramp.

The golf course is set in the middle of the wilderness . You get a chance to step back in time and see where the Seminole Indians roamed and lived. There is wildlife galore. Florida Whitetail deer, Osceola turkeys with their big 8-inch beards, owls, hawks, eagles, ospreys and then of course you have your residence squirrels, possums, armadillos, raccoons, bobcats, and you might even get lucky and see a Florida panther.

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from our

READERS Heartland LIVING June & July 2022

Heartland LIVING June & July 2022

An amazing article written about Kutter and Jonathon. If you have a son or daughter in sports, this is a must read! When you have the dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. -Julianna Bonarrigo, Jupiter, FL Thank you for considering the story and to Bridgette for her personal touch! Much appreciated.

-Kristy Crawford

Inspiring Okeechobee

So exciting. What a tribute. -Linda Spillman

Coffee

Love

And

Kidlit

That's a fabulous piece. You two are storybook special, and Christy Swift, great job! -Susan Banghart

MEET LAKELAND’S AUTHOR

By Christy Swift Photography Courtesy of the Koehlers and Jaunyce Priester

Great article!

Congratulations you two!

If you hit up Mitchell’s Coffee House on North Kentucky Avenue in Lakeland, you can get a tasty cup of coffee... and you can get it for cheap if you keep a cup on the wall.

That’s how author, artist, entrepreneur, and Sebring native Fred Koehler used to get cheap coffee when he was a college student at Florida Southern 15 years ago. He’d run up a “bar tab” with owner Mitch Harvey in exchange for illustrating the posters in their windows, then sit down to a nice breakfast and a coffee while he people-watched and got inspiration for his writing and art.

-Daniel Catherine Stetson

Best magazine! Hands down.

Weeki Wachee Springs

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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-Michelle Braxton Talley

Remember your first magazines?

I was there when. -Dawn Dell Gillilan

he camp started out as a scholarship program, founder Steve Morrison explains.

“My wife Sandy Greer passed away in 2014, and people started asking me how they could remember her. I came up with the idea of creating a music scholarship with the donations because Sandy was a really gifted singer and guitar player, and that was her life— her life was playing music.”

Thank you again for the April/May issues delivered to the LW Arts Center. We finished our Junior Music Girl Camp today and had 17 campers plus staff and volunteers—it was wonderful. A mom of one of our campers told us she learned about the camp in a “magazine” which could only have been Heartland Living!

The couple played professionally together in rock ‘n roll bands and at folk music festivals, so it naturally followed to remember Sandy through music. “We call it Sandy’s MusicGirls or MusicGirls. It’s been so rewarding,” Morrison says.

The folk music community rallied around Morrison to help him launch the endeavor. Dr. Jim Robertson, retired college administrator and musician, helped to organize it. His wife Melanie Robertson taught banjo and helped with administration. They invited other female musicians to serve as instructors. “We use all women instructors. That’s part of our thing.

We want girls to see women role models as musicians,” says Morrison.

Steve and Sandy Greer Morrison

-Melanie Robertson

Marissa Peters with Steve Morrison

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

If you would like to share your thoughts, please leave a post on our Facebook page or email us at Cindy@Heartland-Living.com 18

Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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www.SouthernGraceWedding.com August & September 2022 21

2022 Miss Florida USA

, Photography by Lizzy Sanchez 22

NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS

By Bridgette Waldau Photos Courtesy of Miss Florida USA Photography Partners Carlos Velez, Lizzy Sanchez and the Fulford Family

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was crowned Miss Teen Okeechobee County Fair in 2012, it was the beginning of a journey that made her a mentor, advocate, and the confident young woman she is today. When meeting Taylor, her outward beauty and grace is undeniable, but her real beauty lies beneath.

Taylor decided to enter the world of pageantry even though she suffered from Type 1 diabetes. After being first diagnosed at the age of 14, Fulford really struggled with the disease. Little did she know what the pageant experience would do for her self-esteem and her growth as an individual. At 18, having never been in pageants, she explains what made her want to try it: “I wanted to challenge myself by trying something new that was out of my comfort zone. Like many others, at first, I thought pageantry was superficial, but it is so much more than wearing a crown. It is about the purpose one serves while wearing it.”

Photography by Carlos Velez

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

Cancun, Mexico

the inaugural Okeechobee County Fair pageant in 2008, Pageant Director Donny Arnold wanted the experience for the contestants to be more than wearing a crown, but to also represent Okeechobee on a bigger stage.

Arnold recalls, “I wanted the queens to have more opportunities. I reached out to the Miss Florida USA system, which offered a full scholarship to NOVA University for the winner. That is when our newly created pageant became Miss Okeechobee County Fair Teen USA. Each year our queens had the opportunity to go to compete in Miss Florida Teen USA.” After being crowned, Taylor jumped at her next opportunity and worked hard to make sure she was at her best to compete for Miss Florida Teen USA. However, Taylor did not want her parents to be burdened with the high cost of competing at the state level. Through fundraising, she raised money to cover all her expenses for the pageant. With a pamphlet in hand, she visited local businesses, told her story, and raised almost $9,000. “I was impressed at her passion and drive to accomplish that goal,” Arnold tells me.

At Miss Florida Teen USA, Taylor used her platform to bring awareness to juvenile diabetes. And she took the stage by storm, placing in the top 16, a first for any Miss Okeechobee County Fair Teen USA.

Cancun, Mexico

August & September 2022 27

Cancun, Mexico

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

doubt, this experience changed Taylor’s life.

Finding value in the competition, she continued to compete as an adult and competed in Miss Florida USA 2014, finishing in the top 16. From 2017 – 2021, she continued to compete, which included an impressive three consecutive third runner-up finishes. Taylor almost didn’t go back to compete this year, which was the final year she was eligible.

Her dedication indeed paid off. In her eighth and final attempt, she was crowned 2022 Miss Florida USA last May in Coral Springs, FL. “I truly believe I would be a different person than I am today if I would have given up,” says Taylor.

She was also named most inspirational.

“The biggest honor of that night, aside from being crowned Miss Florida USA, was being awarded the inspirational award, voted by my peers. They truly are the ones that inspire me, and it was an honor sharing the stage with them,” Taylor says.

Arnold states, “As I sat in the audience watching Taylor onstage, I knew it was different. Taylor looked ready to start her ‘dream job’ as she called it. When she was announced Miss Florida USA it was the most magical moment. I feel she will go down in history as one of the hardest working Miss Florida USA winners.”

I ask Taylor how it feels to represent Okeechobee. She says, “All of the cities I have represented I have lived in at some point, but Okeechobee will always be my hometown and where my heart is. I specifically wanted to represent Okeechobee for my last time because I truly believe my hometown has shaped me into the person that I am today. I will forever be grateful for the outpouring of support and love I have received from my community.”

Photography by Carlos Velez

August & September 2022 29

aylor, a graduate of the University of Florida, is a teacher at the Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School. She has volunteered over 800 hours of community service at various schools, UF Health Shands, and other organizations.

She is committed to educating the public about Type 1 diabetes. Taylor does not see her diagnosis as an obstacle, but more as a badge of courage. Soon after winning her first pageant, she started Okeechobee’s first “JDRF Walk to Cure” and raised over $11,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Taylor is also the founder of various initiatives including “Fit2BeYou,” “Crowns for a Cure,” and “Own Your Sparkle.”

Moment when Taylor was crowned 2022 Miss Florida USA

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Heartland LIVINGMagazine.com

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Taylor received a Proclamation from the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioner recognizing Taylor for her accomplishment of being crowned 2022 Miss Florida USA. Shown here with Taylor are Crown for a Cure title holders who watched her receive this honor.

T

aylor’s inaugural “Crowns for a Cure,” a local pageant, raised over $9,000 for juvenile diabetes in 2021. This year, the event raised $16,000 for breast cancer research. She plans to continue “Crowns for a Cure,” choosing a different organization each year to make a difference in the lives of others. “I want to encourage girls and make them understand that this is not a superficial pageant,” explains Taylor. “It’s not just about looks. It’s about having confidence in yourself.”

She also founded a program called “Own Your Sparkle,” which has given Taylor the opportunity to mentor over 140 girls between the ages of four and 18, helping improve upon skills that promote self-confidence and poise. Taylor states, “I hope my journey has inspired these girls to never give up on their dreams. Whether it’s becoming the next Miss Florida USA or whatever they want to do in life, they can achieve it as long as they keep chasing that dream.”

As Miss Florida USA, Taylor hopes to continue her initiatives while also promoting adult women’s health and education.

Her social media platform, “Fit2BeYou” focuses on helping others improve their relationship with food, exercise, and their body. She uses this platform to bring more awareness for Type 1 Diabetes, but also Type 2 Diabetes and how to prevent it by living a healthy lifestyle.

During her journey, Taylor has had many of her own mentors along the way. About her relationship with Arnold, Taylor says, “He saw the potential in me before I even believed in myself. It is surreal to think that one person can change your entire outlook on life. I strive to be that person for others.”

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August & September 2022 33

Taylor with her parents, Randy and Christina Fulford

support of Taylor’s family has no doubt been with her. She is the daughter of Randy and Christina Fulford and she has two sisters, Kaylen (Fulford) Meeks and Alexandrea Fulford. The pageant experience was new for them also. Taylor’s mom, Christina, says it was inspiring watching her daughter grow more confident year after year and fulfilling her goals. Christina says, “Competing is not always easy for Taylor, especially with her disease. She never used it as a crutch because she doesn’t want someone to feel sorry for her. When competing, she's out of her routine and that's bad for diabetics because of stress, nerves, lack of sleep and improper meals. So, to watch her overcome this and work so hard inspires me, too.” Christina says the best part of this journey has been all the new friends they’ve all met throughout the years, who continue to this day to be an important part of their lives. “These are people we would have never met if it were not for Taylor and her dream.”

In the April 2014 issue of Heartland LIVING, I wrote a story about Taylor. The column shows she was a mentor right from the start, especially to Destani Whaley. Whaley had entered the fair pageant with a lack of confidence due to her own disability. Destani said, “Taylor, thank you for guiding me.

You are the greatest mentor, coach, and friend ever. You have taught me so much about life and determination. You told me, ‘Make your disabilities your abilities,’ and at that very moment you turned my world around and made me believe in myself.”

I don’t think anyone could have predicted back then how far Taylor would go, but reading that story again, it is really no surprise that she did get her “dream job.” Taylor’s next journey is the Miss USA finals in Grand Sierra in Reno, NV on October 3, 2022. Taylor says, “I can’t wait to represent my community of Okeechobee and the Sunshine State.”

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In 2021, Taylor was the first contestant to wear her insulin pump during competition.

▶ 34.2 million Americans have some form of diabetes ▶ 1.6 million Americans have Type 1 diabetes ▶ 64,000 people are estimated to be diagnosed each year in the U.S. ▶ 5 million people are expected to have Type 1 diabetes by 2050

How you can help: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) exists so Type 1 diabetes (T1D) won’t. Their mission is to improve lives by leading life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. Find out how you can support JDRF and make a difference in the lives of people with T1D by visiting www.jdrf.org/about or donate to Taylor’s personal fundraising page with JDRF Greater Palm Beach chapter www.jdrf.org/southflorida/ Social media: Instagram:@jdrfpb; Facebook: JDRF Greater Palm Beach @JDRFpb

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130 N Ridgewood Dr Store hours Wednesday - Friday 10:30am – 4:00pm Saturday 10:00am-2:00pm

www.barewoodmarket.com August & September 2022 35

Photography by Carlos Velez

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"I truly believe I would be a different person

than I am today if I would have given up."

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ResLocall tau y ran Owne t a nd d Bar

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A Journey of Rehabilitation and Relaxation Riding the Beaches and Trails of Florida

By Katy Fassler Photos Courtesy of Carmen Hanson

The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and freedom.

-Sharon Ralls Lemon

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sunset horseback ride along the beach with hair tousled by the sea breeze is a bucket list item for many. Carmen Herrmann Hanson of the Tampa Bay area makes that dream a reality. Hanson’s business, CPonies, allows visitors to ride the beaches and trails of Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, and more, not only to have the once in a lifetime experience but to also give back to the very horses they ride.

“Horseback riding on the beach is like a Florida-style trail ride – but better!

Come ride our rescued Drum and Gypsy Vanner horses and even enjoy an exhilarating swim with these majestic beauties. Start with a ride into the beautiful water at Palma Sola Bay, right near Anna Maria Island. The tranquil, relaxing trip is sure to put you at ease, and the local sea life will amaze you!”

Carmen Herrmann Hanson, granddaughter of Col. Ottomar Herrmann (one of the first to import, breed, train, and exhibit Lipizzan Stallions in America), grew up surrounded by horses and was raised with a love for riding. Through the years, loving horses created a career of training new riders. Hanson started a riding academy, but it was by chance in 2012 that CPonies was created.

“On a beach outing one day with my horses, I noticed a crowd of onlookers watching and taking pictures. I was chatting with several people when an older woman explained to me that this was her lifelong dream, one of the things on her bucket list. Of course I offered her a horseback ride on one of my horses, even letting her swim with the horse. When we finished, the gleam in her eye and joy on her face kept me smiling for days.”

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he horses of CPonies also come with a story. Hanson purchases most of the horses of CPonies for the purpose of rehabilitation. “Most of my beautiful horses have come from not-so-good environments. I truly believe these horses find me! 95% of our beach ponies have been bought with horrible skin conditions, neglect and abuse, starved and over bred. I have found the ocean heals almost all of the feather conditions (feather is the long hair around the feet) that neglect and bad breeding have created as well as healing their soul. The love they receive from us and, of course, our guests shows them that humans can be loving and caring, too.”

“Being born into a horse family, we always rescued horses here and there. It is the most rewarding thing I have ever done. The bond between a rescued animal is really like no other.

I wanted to offer other horse lovers the experience of horses that are safe, gentle, and love to swim. So why not use the ocean to help rehab the rescue horses I purchased?”

“Well, this year we decided to buy a few (3) from kill pens. That's where horses are bought that are going to slaughter. We bid and won on a Suffolk Punch gelding. He looked like a pretty good guy. We paid $4800 for him and another $1800 to ship him to Florida. We named him Grouper, and my vet confirmed he was at least 18 years old. We were told he was 8. This horse was the most dangerous horse I have ever handled. I knew if I couldn't fix him he would probably have to be put down as he was too dangerous to rehome. With everyday training, in 3 months we took him to the beach. He loved it! He is now being used as a guide horse and has become one of our sweetest horses.”

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ehabilitation takes time, money, and patience. “The length of time it takes to rehab a horse depends on what condition the horses are in. We have had some take up to 6 months. The first thing is excellent vets. Each horse goes through our vet for blood work, deworming, and dental work. Hooves are x rayed and our farrier then starts his job.” The cost? “Oh gosh, anywhere from $4,000 to well over $10,000.”

“Every ride that is purchased helps us buy and rehabilitate another horse. Our horses love to do beach rides, and their favorite thing to do is swim. If for some reason we get one that doesn't like the water, we retrain them and find the best home where they will be loved and have a purpose.”

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Ponies offers a selection of rides to suit the desires of the visitors.

The most popular excursion is the Bradenton Platinum Excursion.

Riders will meet and fall in love with the rare breeds rescued through CPonies.

With this excursion, riders will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with their horse. “After a brief swimming lesson, our horses will swim while you ride them. The horses are never forced to swim; this is actually their favorite part! So grab hold of their manes and hang on tight! This almost feels like you’re flying through the air. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as it’s common to see manatees, stingrays, and dolphins swimming by. Palma Sola Bay is a natural breeding ground for our manatees! Enjoy the beautiful bay views as you ride with your gentle companion. Ask your guide about your horse’s story. You may even shed a tear when you hear some of the horrible conditions our horses came from.” This option is also available in the evening, making the excursion even more magical with the setting sun creating the backdrop of your ride.

Other options include a trail ride through Alafia River State Park. The former phosphate mine has transformed the landscape creating new landforms, including small lakes and steep grades.

Deer Prairie Creek Preserve in Venice, a journey through preserved Florida, is a ride along the Myakka River. These trail rides are perfect opportunities to see the natural flora and fauna of Central Florida. A ride along the shoreline in St. Petersburg is also available. Included in all rides is a time to simply love on these rescue horses; carrots are encouraged to be brought along to show your love.

“I want to thank all of you. Every ride helps us rehabilitate another Drum horse.

Every time you bring carrots, gently pat them on the neck, or hug them after your ride, you prove to them that humans can be good.”

For more information or to book your tour, please visit www.Cponies.com

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August & September 2022 49

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Our horses love to do beach rides, and their favorite thing to do is swim.

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Locally Owned and Operated

A Unique & Friendly Neighborhood Restaurant & Tavern Best Gatortail, Wings & Burgers in town!

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The Pavilion on Little Lake Jackson is more than just a scenic venue.

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August & September 2022 53

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By Christy Swift Photography by Cindy Adams

It’s the dog days of summer, and the teens are bored and bingeing on Neflix and Doritos. What do you do?

If you haven’t dined on food truck fare yet, you’re in the minority. The modern food truck revolution started in 2008 due to economic uncertainty and has continued to thrive year after year. According to Zippia Career Research for 2021, there are over 35,000 food truck businesses in the U.S., making it a $1.16 billion industry. We’re living in an age of food trucks, and we’re here for it!

We pile into the car and head out to the Lakeland Food Truck Rally, held year-round the second Thursday of the month from 5:00PM to 9:00PM in Munn Park. This trendy part of downtown Lakeland is the perfect location for an evening of foodie fun. But before we get to the eating part, let’s meet your food critics.

Kira, 17.

Grew up in Highlands County.

Lifeguard and surfer.

Likes flavorful things.

Amadi, 16.

Visiting from Brevard.

Creative and likes to play volleyball.

Loves burgers.

Ocean, 15.

Kira’s younger sister.

Avid reader and cosplay enthusiast.

Likes carbs and anything sweet.

Zion, 15.

Amadi’s younger brother.

Enjoys sports and the outdoors.

Likes savory foods.

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Chikiz Empanaditas Gourmet Colombian street food with a twist!

It’s a blustery evening with grumbling gray clouds threatening, but that’s not enough to keep hungry teenagers away from a park square lined with food trucks! The first one we hit is Chikiz Empanaditas Gourmet run by Roberto and Jennifer Arciniegas. They serve authentic Colombian cuisine with a gourmet twist.

“My mom was a chef,” Roberto explains. Four years ago, when they were brainstorming ideas for the business, she told them exactly what they needed to do. The Winter Garden-based couple started selling empanaditas (mini savory Latin-American turnovers) at farmer’s markets. Their first event was such a hit, they invested in a food truck a few months later with the goal of making Colombian street food accessible to all Floridians.

“We want to continue a family tradition and create a new Colombian street food, and also educate people about our food and our country,” Roberto says.

He recommends the arepas nachos and the megapatacon, and we’re eager to try them both. The arepas are homemade cornmeal patties cut into triangles and deep fried to a nice crunch. They are topped with pico de gallo, sour cream, Monterey jack cheese, grilled corn, a garlic cilantro aioli sauce, and tons of fresh lettuce. For a protein, you can choose from chicken, chorizo (a flavorful Colombian sausage—not spicy like the Mexican version) or carnitas (pulled pork).

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he megapatacon is a base of what many Cuban food lovers know as tostones (twice-fried green plantain patties). Roberto adds a little bit of salt and melted cheese, then loads them with lettuce, mozzarella cheese, grilled chicken, carnitas, chorizo, and the garlic cilantro sauce. He tops them with potato sticks for that little crunch and adds “mayoketchup,” a combination of mayonnaise and ketchup that he says you’ll find at every table in Colombia. “It’s a super Colombian-style dish,” he says.

I’m struck by the freshness of the dishes and the aromatic cilantro undertones. I’m thinking this truck has earned the “gourmet” in its name. It’s hard to get a critique from teenagers who are wolfing down their dinner, but here’s what they have to say: Kira “The flavors pop!”

Ocean “This chicken is so good!”

Zion "The meat is very tender and has an authentic taste.”

Amadi “The presentation is very nice. I’m a picky eater, and I would eat this whole thing!”

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Award-winning small batch ice cream Next we took a dessert break and got a taste of the small-batch, hand-dipped ice cream at MyCone Creamery run by Andrew and Traci Hession and their 22-year-old son, Will. Traci greeted us at the window of their friendly-looking turquoise refurbished church bus with a big smile. The family is originally from Michigan but moved to Trinity two years ago when Covid took away Andrew’s job. He’d been wanting to own an ice cream shop for a while, and when Traci agreed this was the right time, they made their move. The Hessions decided to go mobile so as not to be tied down to a location.

“There’s a steep learning curve, but it’s been so much fun. We feel that God called us to do this,” says Andrew, a former salesman.

Their long-term goal is to churn their own ice cream, but for now they have it made at a local creamery. Because the ice cream is made in three-batch gallons, it’s creamier than most and more like homemade.

They rotate through twenty flavors including the very popular Kahlua Chip made with espresso powder, toffee chips, and chocolate chips and the Cookie Monster made with vanilla ice cream dyed blue with cookies and cream and cookie dough mixed in. Their award-winning vanilla, the base, took second place nationally.

They are also the place to go for cold brew coffee and iced tea. “I searched high and low for a coffee bean,” says Andrew. “I get it from a roaster in New York. It’s the smoothest iced coffee you’ll ever taste.”

All the teens had high praise for the ice cream.

Ocean “Normally I’m not the biggest vanilla person, but the texture is so creamy!”

Kira The flavors mix beautifully.”

Amadi “It’s super creamy ice cream.

The best part is it has a good strong mint flavor.”

Zion “This is literally the best ice cream I’ve ever had.”

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Where Elvis makes a regular appearance Next, we go for some traditional American fare at 1 Up Burger. The colorful truck belongs to Michael Friend and his girlfriend Tammy McCarthy. The couple moved down from Michigan two years ago after Covid shut down their pawn shop business. With help from Tampa Bay Food Trucks (the company who organizes this rally and many other opportunities for food truckers), they purchased, branded, and outfitted their truck.

It was a big leap of faith for the pair, who both worked in food service when they were younger.

“We sold everything we had. We used our entire life savings to do this,” Michael says. Now, based out of Port Richey, they feature burgers, chicken strips, and fries. Everything is fresh, never frozen, Michael tells me. “If they don’t like it, I’ll make them anything they want on the menu, guaranteed,” he adds.

Of course, we’re here for adventure, so when I ask what we should try and Michael tells me “the Elvis Burger,” I already know we’re in. It’s a quarter pound patty with sharp cheddar cheese, bacon, honey, and peanut butter.

I think I may have misheard him, but no. It really does have peanut butter. He got the recipe from a fellow food trucker who had it on their menu and raved about it. “I was like, no way.

I took a bite out of courtesy and said, ‘Can I put this on my truck?’’” Michael recalls.

I have a similar reaction. The peanut butter adds a certain je ne se quoi to what is basically a great bacon cheeseburger. But I’ll let our taste testers tell it.

Amadi “Somehow the flavors go together.”

Kira “It’s really good. Unexpectedly good.”

Ocean “I have the same feeling as when I first put a fry in my Frosty.”

Zion “I’m sad I haven’t tried peanut butter on my burger before.”

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Sweet, simple treats with flair We’re not ashamed to go for a second dessert, even after the rain starts coming down. Dodging raindrops, we hurry across the square to the bright pink 1974 Ford P350 owned by Polk County resident Lea Williams. Williams used to run a candy shop called Got Candy just down the street on Kentucky Avenue, but switched her business to a full-time food truck gig in May of 2017.

Lea and her daughter, Lyn Hayes, love the flexibility of having a mobile dessert truck. They aren’t tied to one location, the cost of doing business is lower, and they can close for vacation if they want to. “With the food truck we can go to our customers. We can do events; people love events. A food truck is something that is fun and different.”

Got Desserts features a number of sweet treats, including cheesecake on a stick dipped in your choice of hard coating like an old-fashioned soft-serve cone (choose from chocolate, white chocolate, cherry, or one of several other flavors Lea rotates through, including birthday cake, blue raspberry, peanut butter, or cotton candy). The Cheesecake Cookies are cheesecake sandwiched between two home-baked cookies, half-dipped in chocolate and frozen. You can get a mini Ice-cream Cake that feeds two.

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The Carrot Cake is always a fan favorite, as is the brand-new Cobbler Cone—a warm scoop of fresh-baked blueberry, peach, or pecan cobbler placed in a waffle cone and topped with ice cream.

The portions are generous, too!

Here’s what our taste tasters had to say:

Mary Kay

Amadi “If I knew this existed, I would have had this as my birthday cake.” -

Delyne Anderson Mary Kay Beauty Consultant “I’m 61 years old…. It’s NEVER too early or too late to have great skin or a side gig.”

Kira “I love cheesecake, and this rates very high on my list!”

Ocean “It’s honestly phenomenal. I want another one.”

Zion “The whipped cream is super light and fluffy. It’s sweet and refreshing.”

They also offer fresh, real lemonade optionally flavored with home-made syrups like blueberry, strawberry, or watermelon. “I love my job,” Lea says.

“I get to have fun with what we do and offer things with a little twist.”

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Real Estate the way it’s supposed to be!

August & September 2022 67

Next time we visit a food truck rally, we’ll try some different fare. If there’s one thing I’ve learned about these food truckers, they love adding new things to the menu. Do you have any food truck tales?

Feel free to share them on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Heartlandlivingmagazine.

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VITAMINS  HEALTH FOOD  WELLNESS Highlands County Oldest & Largest Health Food Store

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August & September 2022 71

By Amanda Armentrout

Located along the beautiful Indian River in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce, you will find the Fort Pierce Farmers Market at Marina Square.

The market is open every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. This unique waterfront shopping experience features a wide array of local vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, plants, herbs, seafood, fresh flowers, and so much more. This bustling and diverse atmosphere feels even more enchanting when set to the soundtrack of live music playing at the end of the market.

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esidents of the Heartland can very easily make a visit to the Fort Pierce Farmers Market a one day adventure or a weekend mini vacation to enjoy the surrounding beaches and downtown area.

When deciding to visit the area for ourselves, we did not know about the market. Upon a quick search of things to do in the area, the Farmers Market was mentioned multiple times. With no real idea of what to expect, we were happily surprised when we made the visit and found such a bustling and unique setting.

When speaking to several of the vendors, we found that many had been participating in the market for a number of years. They all spoke fondly of the sense of community within the market vendors and the enjoyment they get from meeting so many different people. Everyone was more than happy to assist us with our choices as we browsed through beautiful selections of produce and baked items.

Many items featured also included vegan and glutenfree options.

The food vendor selections were almost overwhelming…so bring your appetite! The smells of all the food wafting through the crowds will make you want to try a little bit of everything. As it is situated along the river, it was easy to grab a little something to eat or drink and sit along the waterfront to take in the scenery. We chose to do just that as we began our visit. Many also chose to sit near the marina to enjoy their goodies, the scenery, and the bluegrass band that was entertaining the crowd.

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he overall atmosphere of the market was so friendly and welcoming. We saw many families of all ages walking among the displays and vendors. Many also brought their four-legged family members on the outing, as the venue was very pet-friendly.

The Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers Market states that their mission is to be committed to bringing healthy, fresh food and horticultural products to St. Lucie County and the surrounding areas, while encouraging commerce, entertainment, and trade in Downtown Fort Pierce. We would agree that they have accomplished their mission. They have a home page (https://fortpiercefarmersmarket. com/) and an active social media to update the community on the many events and benefits they host, as well as a detailed list of vendors each week.

While at the Fort Pierce Farmers Market, we also made a quick visit to the neighboring Jazz Society Arts & Crafts Market. This market features up to 70 artists, creators, and crafters. Funds raised support education and local scholarships. Some of the artists featured stained glass art, paintings, glassware, soaps, and more. With such a wide variety of items, we took the opportunity to purchase a couple of unique gifts ourselves.

One of the many joys of living in the Heartland is being near so many unique and diverse events and places. Some of these quick trips can be the most rewarding as you get to discover another corner of our beautiful state and meet the people that make it so special. The Fort Pierce Farmers Market is one such place and one that’s on our list to visit again.

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For your Media Sponsor supporting our Cattle Drive Sculpture Project There is no doubt that our ads in Heartland LIVING Magazine not only brought attention, but also many donations to our sculpture project that preserves the legacy of Florida heritage for many generations to come, allowing the essence of the Florida Cowboy to come alive through the Arts!

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You are invited to join us at Okeechobee Main Street Arts & Culture Alliance

Cattle Drive Sculpture

Dedication & Presentation.

Saturday, August 6, 2022

10:00 am - 2:00 pm Cattlemen’s Square - Flagler Park #5 - City of Okeechobee Event will include: A Short Program - Ribbon Cutting - Unveiling of Sculptures Meet the Artist, J. Michael Wilson - Music & Food

Okeechobee Main Street Arts & Culture Alliance

863-357-6246 www.OkeechobeeArts.org

Community Theatre is proud to announce We’re Back! Okeechobee that we are returning this fall for our 43rd Season!

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www.OkeechobeeCommunityTheatre.com 79

Ladonna Paedae Rodriguez

A NEW CHAPTER

By Katy Fassler Photos courtesy of Hobby Hill Florist

"Celebrate endings -for they precede new beginnings."

-Jonathan Lockwood Huie

obby Hill Florist began in 1950 as a collective hobby of three ladies who lived on a hill. Over the years, Bill and Mary Paedae came on staff bringing their wonderfully artistic daughter, Ladonna, in 1975, who furthered the business with ideas, products, the Christmas House, and a love for the community. After 72 years of serving the Heartland area, Hobby Hill Florist is embarking on a new chapter. Ladonna Paedae Rodriguez has passed the torch to new owners, Brooke and Andrew McDermott.

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eflecting on her time at Hobby Hill, Ladonna says, “I will miss visiting with you, hearing how your children, grandchildren, and pets are doing, finding out where your vacation will take you, sharing in the joy of your child getting married, being there to hold your hand as we plan your parent’s final service flowers. I have trained the new owner, Brooke, for six months, so please say hello to her! Brooke is a creative, energetic mom, wife, friend, and businesswoman! I have learned in my 48 years as a florist, that I have provided more than just “flowers,” I have been able to connect in the deepest emotional way, and I am thankful to have been part of your lives.”

Ladonna with her dad, Bill Paedaee

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, I am not quite sure of how to begin this letter except to simply say that with both gratitude and a touch of melancholy, I have sold Hobby Hill Florist. Not many businesses are around after 72 years, but here we are!

With much dedication and hard work, we have continued the tradition begun in 1950!

Ladonna and Rocco

Many of you will know the new owners: Brooke and Andrew McDermott. Brooke is the daughter of Lisa and the late Bruce Burley and is the granddaughter of Dr. Lee and Mrs. Burley. Andrew has a family member who has been in the floral industry.

He owns and operates a very successful propeller business for airboats. They have two beautiful children: their son Liam is already excited to jump into the florist world while Elle will probably share her father's interests. I hope you will welcome them and love them as you have me. Brooke has taken almost every design class that I offered and is full of passion, energy, and talent, and she will have Jonnie at her side to support, encourage and teach her as well. Jonnie has been in the florist industry since she was a teenager. What a talent!

I have appreciated your support, friendship and caring more than you may realize. I consider you all friends and will miss you, and I cherish every memory. I just know that my body and my heart are telling me that it is time to take it easier, to figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life, and to reflect and enjoy nature.

I hope you will share many new “life moments” with Brooke and Andrew and Jonnie, helping them to reach towards the 100th anniversary of Hobby Hill Florist!

Lastly, I hope you will remember my parents, Bill and Mary Paedae, as they were certainly the building blocks of this business. I am humbled that you have allowed me to thrive in my 48 years as your florist. Make every day bloom!

Mary and Bill Paedae

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Thank you, Ladonna, for your commitment and love to the Heartland community. You have been a constant for the many moments of our lives: the dances, the dates, the weddings, new births, Valentine’s and other holidays, the losses of loved ones, and the ‘just because’ moments. You have provided the touch of God’s beautiful creation in the moments of joy and pain, blessing and loss, and love and celebration.

The McDermott Family (L-R) Andrew, Liam, Brooke and Elle

Visit Brooke at Hobby Hill Florist, 541 N Ridgewood Drive, Sebring www.HobbyHillFlorist.com.

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SFSC FOUNDATION | 13 E. Main St., Avon Park foundation@southflorida.edu 863-453-3133 August & September 2022 85

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union offers home equity loans with no closing costs.1 Extremely low rates | Fast, local decisions

Call (863) 284-5626 or (855) 560-5626 toll-free or visit midflorida.com/home-equity-loan

Insured by NCUA. NMLS# 417627 Offer valid as of April 1, 2022, and may be canceled without notice. Membership and $5 deposit required. Approval subject to application, eligibility, credit and acceptable property (must be your primary residence, manufactured homes excluded; acceptable appraisal and title required; condos or townhouses eligible only if loan pays off all other mortgages and liens). Property insurance required. Flood insurance when required. Online appraisal typically used to determine home value. Not available for refinance or consolidation of existing MIDFLORIDA loans. Loan amounts from $10,000 to $500,000. Not all homes will qualify to be mortgaged for more than their original purchase price. Other terms and conditions apply.

See your loan officer for details. For home equity line of credit: The variable Annual Percentage Rate (APR) may be 3.50% to 18.00%, depending on creditworthiness. Variable rate is based on the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate (3.50% as of 04/01/2022) and is subject to change quarterly. Maximum APR is 18.00%. $25 fee for advances less than $100. Bridge loans have origination fee of $500 or 0.5% of loan amount, whichever is greater. 1. “No Closing Costs” applies to eligible loan up to and including $500,000 on primary residence on platted lot less than ½ acre with a combined loan to value (CLTV) of 80% or less. Does not apply to purchase transactions. Appraisal, survey, title policy and other closing costs at borrower’s expense may be required on other loans. Costs subject to recapture within 36 months.

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863-453-7555 Now Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner Reservation are Welcome The Wednesday Nite Blitz is Back in Swing!

Restaurant & Bar open until 9pm on Wednesdays Located in the newly remodeled club house at Pinecrest Golf Club.

2250 Little Lake Bonnet Road Avon Park, Florida 33825 Sunday - Thursday 11 am - 8 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am to 9 pm

Check us out on Facebook.

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Easy and Healthy Back to School Lunch Ideas for Your Kids!

By Cindy Adams

School season is almost here! It's time for fun and healthy back-to-school lunch ideas that will have your kiddos looking forward to returning to the classroom.

While you can sometimes transform last night’s dinner into a lunch worthy of taking to school, it doesn’t always work out that way. When it comes to lunches, having the same thing every single day can get boring after a while. It doesn’t take long for kids to get bored with food, so a boring sandwich everyday won’t always do the trick. Healthy lunches can still be just as easy as those classic peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, but who doesn’t love a P&J? Some of the ideas I found probably are easier.

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Super Fresh and Healthy Chicken Salad I start with fresh shredded chicken. If time is an obstacle (when is it not?) a store- bought rotisserie chicken works just as well. It’s also a great way to utilize leftovers from a roasted chicken made earlier in the week.

Ingredients

5 chicken breasts, shredded 3/4 cup mayo 1 cup celery, chopped 1/3 cup green onions, chopped 1/2 cup grapes, cut in half ½ cup of pecans 1/4 tsp black pepper 1 tsp salt 90

Instructions

Season raw chicken breast with salt and pepper Sauté chicken breast over medium low heat or you can boil in water until cooked thoroughly While chicken is cooking, gather and wash veggies Chop celery, green onions, grapes and pecans, set aside After chicken is cooled, shred with fork and add the remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Refrigerate mixture or eat immediately (I prefer to refrigerate for about an hour) Serve by itself, or it’s very good in a croissant.

We all know that grilled sandwiches and quesadillas are delicious. I attribute much of the yum-factor to the melted cheese and crispy golden tortilla edges. This recipe for cheddar apple quesadillas isn’t your typical recipe but one that your family and kids are sure to love. The sweet and savory combination of tart apples and cheddar cheese is on another level when grilled between flour tortillas.

Nothing fancy is needed to make this easy school lunch idea, so give it a try.

Ingredients

Grab the stack of flour tortillas, an apple, and your favorite kind of cheese.

Instructions

Assemble the Quesadilla Spread a small amount of mayonnaise over each tortilla. Top one tortilla with the sliced apples, shredded cheddar cheese, or your choice, and the remaining tortilla.

Cheddar and Apple Quesadillas

Heat the Pan Lightly grease a large, non-stick skillet with butter or cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

Grill and Serve - Add the tortilla and grill for 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Flip and grill the other side for an additional minute. Remove from heat, slice, and serve.

If this is for a school lunch, allow the quesadilla to cool down slightly before packing it in a lunch container.

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Fruity Peanut Butter Pitas

These taste so good your kids won’t know they’re also good for them!

Ingredients

1/4 cup peanut butter 1/8 teaspoon each ground allspice, cinnamon and nutmeg 2 whole wheat pita pocket halves 1/2 medium apple, thinly sliced 1/2 medium firm banana, sliced

Instructions

In a small bowl, blend the peanut butter, allspice, cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread inside pita bread halves, fill with apple and banana slices.

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Spinach and Turkey Pinwheels Easy four-ingredient turkey pinwheels. Go ahead and make them the day before—they won’t get soggy!

Ingredients

1 carton (8 ounces) spreadable garden vegetable cream cheese 8 flour tortillas (8 inches) 4 cups fresh baby spinach or you can use lettuce 1 pound sliced deli turkey

Instructions

Spread cream cheese over tortillas.

Layer with spinach or lettuce and turkey. Roll up tightly. If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate.

Cut to desired size.

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Champion for Children Youth Award Recipient—Miguel Arceo.

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

863-386-1177

935 Sebring Square - Sebring, FL

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August & September 2022 95

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By Kimberly Blaker

Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.

– H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Volunteering is an excellent way for families to make a difference in their communities and offers lots of benefits to those who volunteer their time and skills. First and foremost, nothing is more rewarding than knowing you've made a difference in someone's life. What's more, volunteering raises kids' sense of civic responsibility. It also makes for an excellent family bonding and skill-building experience as well as a socialization opportunity for kids and adults alike.

Regardless of where you live, countless volunteer opportunities are available, and there's something to fit every family's talents and interests. So share these ideas with your kids to see what triggers their enthusiasm. Then make a family plan to put it into action.

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Volunteer at a soup kitchen or food pantry. People who are impoverished or homeless are always in need of nutritious food. Search online for local soup kitchens and food pantries.

Then call and speak to the manager to offer your family's service. Be sure to mention the age of your kids in case there are age restrictions. At a soup kitchen, you can help prepare and serve a meal or do kitchen cleanup.

For a food pantry, you can help with stocking or putting together food baskets for families in need. Some pantries also need delivery assistance since many low-income families don't have transportation to pick up their food supply.

Help out at an animal shelter. Cats and dogs spend days, weeks, and often longer cooped up in small kennels or crates with little opportunity to exercise or socialize. Offer to spend an afternoon walking dogs or playing with cats. There are many other things you can do for a shelter, too. You can transport a pet to a new home, clean kennels, donate supplies, or help find loving homes through social media.

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Adopt a road or park for cleanup.

Most states have adopt-a-highway programs. These typically require a signed contract for a period of 2 to 4 years with a promise to clean up a designated area 2 to 4 times a year. Alternatively, you could pick an unsightly city street and head out to clean up the debris. Keep kids safe by requiring them to stay off the road. If you have younger kids, park cleanup is a safer option.

Paint a park bench. Benches can be found in parks as well as shopping districts and along bus routes. Contact your city hall or parks and recreation department and request permission to freshen up a bench. If your family is artistic, ask if you may do something creative to make it more cheerful.

Help build a house with Habitat for Humanity. This organization helps build and renovate homes for families in need of safe shelter. Visit habitat.org to find your local Habitat organization and ask how you can help. Habitat also offers a teen volunteer program.

Send letters to military members overseas. Veterans, new recruits, and deployed troops deserve and need to know just how much we appreciate their dedication and service to our country. For more information, visit https://www.operationgratitude.com/ writeletters/

Don and Maria Maddox Owners

863-385-8289

4441 US Hwy 27 South - Sebring, FL 33870

We are so excited for the journey ahead as we grow our family amidst Hobby Hill Florist. We are ready to carry on the traditions and values that have surrounded Hobby Hill for decades. It’s our greatest hope that the Hobby Hill customers will accept us as your family’s florist the same way you have Ladonna for so many loving years.

Your new Hobby Hill Family, Andrew, Brooke, Liam and Ellie McDermott

Thank you for voting us Best of Highlands

Best Florist 2021 Best Home Decor 2021 Best Custom Jewelry 2021

August & September 2022 99

Regardless of where you live, countless volunteer opportunities are available, and there's something to fit every family's talents and interests.

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Hold a coat, blanket, and backpack drive for the homeless. Homelessness exists in every community throughout the country, whether visible or not.

Homeless people are always in need of warm coats and blankets in winter as well as a way to easily carry their bare necessities. Coordinate with a local homeless shelter and set up several drop-off locations throughout your community. Then create and pass out flyers in your neighborhood, on parked cars, and at street corners. You can also post flyers on grocery store and laundromat bulletin boards, share them in social media, and email family and friends to help spread the word.

Help an older adult by running errands.

Do you know an older person who doesn't drive or own a vehicle? Offer to transport them to do their errands and grocery shopping. If it's too difficult for the older person to go out, you could offer to do the errands for them.

Put together care kits for homeless shelters. Ask local businesses to donate items for the homeless care kits you plan to create. The following are useful items to include in each kit: toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, a comb, bar of soap, shampoo, a package of hand wipes, razor, shaving cream, protein bars, and other small useful items. Any food items should be non-perishable and require no preparation.

Hearing Services Designed f� Your Individual Care

Lampe & Kiefer Hearing Aid Center is the oldest established hearing aid office in Highlands County.

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Over 50 Years in Business!

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Help someone who's visually impaired.

Search online for your local organization for the visually impaired and offer your help. A visually impaired person may need assistance with cleaning, cooking, yard work, or errands. You can also ask the organization about other ways you can help.

Offer your service to a domestic violence shelter. Coordinate with a local women's shelter to hold a clothing and toy drive. Or put together arts and crafts kits and spend an afternoon teaching a craft workshop for kids at the shelter. Childcare is also often needed for working mothers staying at the shelters.

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August & September 2022 101

Hold a bake sale for a charity. Pick your favorite charity and hold a bake sale to raise funds for it. Just ask a busy local business or grocery store if you can set up a table on a given day for your charity bake sale. Then invite family and friends to pitch in and help with the baking.

Plant seeds or greenery along a highway or main street.

Check with your city first. Then contact management at local nurseries and ask them to donate plants or seeds for the project. Plant only native flowers, shrubs, and trees that won't require watering or maintenance.

Mow and/or do yard work for a disabled person. If you don't know anyone who's disabled, ask coworkers or friends if they know of someone. Or do an online search for disability organizations in your area.

Foster a homeless animal. Animal rescues are always in need of families to foster homeless pets while awaiting permanent placement. Search online for pet rescues and animal shelters.

If your family has a favorite breed, look for a breed-specific rescue in your area.

Perform for children in a hospital. Countless kids suffer from diseases that require lengthy and sometimes indefinite hospital stays. If your family's got talent, what better way to put it to good use? Search for a children's hospital or wing in your area and arrange a date to perform for the kids. You could put on funny skits, perform magic, dance, or play music.

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Nothing is more rewarding than knowing you've made a difference in someone's life.

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There are SEVEN

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August & September 2022 105

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Lightsey Family Ranch

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