February | March 2016LIVING

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Heartland LIVING

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During a heart attack, every minute matters. So, know the warning signs. If you experience

them, call 911 and get to the nearest emergency room. And know that Highlands Regional

Medical Center is here to help when you need us.

Signs of a heart attack are rarely this obvious.

HighlandsRegional.com

89460_HIGH_HAWS_9x12c.indd 1 1/24/16 3:29 PM

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Heartland LIVING

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www.GilbertChevrolet.com

(863) 763-31543550 U.S. Highway 441 South

Okeechobee, FL 34974

Over500NEW and Pre-OwnedVehicles to Choose From!

The Butler Family (L-R): Will, Lauren, Bob, Pam, Hannah, April and Ben. - Ben Butler

PU

BL

ISH

ER

Letter From

THE PUBLISHER

As we kick off our fifth year for Heartland LIVING, the outpouring of support and admiration that I have received from readers like you and my family of advertisers once again humbles me. I am looking forward to another year of hard work and dedication to grow our audience and exceed your expectations each and every issue.

”If you ever see a turtle on top of a fence, you know he didn’t get there alone,” I saw this quote somewhere and it resonates with me. It is always important to recognize how you got to where you are today and should always be thankful for what you have and appreciate the people around you who helped get you there. This publication wouldn’t be where it is today if it wasn’t for my amazing team and folks who are willing to help me grow this passion of mine. For all of you, I am continually thankful.

We are making some upgrades in the coming months so make sure to stay tuned to our social media connections and website for exciting innovations to Heartland LIVING. As always, we strive to set the bar high each year and hope you enjoy following our journey just as much as we enjoy hearing feedback from you.

I hope you enjoy the variety of stories in this issue. Each of them has a special meaning to me and I hope at least one of them hits home to you. My dad has always had a passion for bird hunting and it’s been a desire of mine to have a quail-hunting story in the magazine and showcase a bird dog on our cover. I think we found the perfect fit with this handsome boy, Dutch, owned by Rhett and Jessica Wiggins. Our cover photographer Traci Newlin said this was one of the most fun and enjoyable photo shoots she had been on. I think the amazing talent of both the photographer and subjects show in the photos from this story.

You will see that we have added a new section, Inspired by the South. In this issue Harry L. Lewis shares his recipe for Fried Quail with Milk Gravy. We also present a cocktail recipe for the Moscow Mule. This section will feature recipes, cocktails, fashion, home décor, and a whole lot more so stay tuned. We strive to continue to evolve so that we bring you innovative and interesting editorial content that has something for everyone.

I’m looking forward to another exciting and fulfilling year for Heartland LIVING. If there is something that you want to see, please let us know. It is because of you, our advertisers and readers, that I am able to share this labor of love.

God Bless,

Cindy Sebring Adams

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Dentistry from Infancy to Adolescence

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Melissa Kindell, DMD, makes every child who visits feel welcomeand comfortable and is dedicated to educating and providingquality treatment to maintain your child's oral health.

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Heartland LIVING

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Heartland LIVING

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- Permanent Crowns in One Hour� Galileo Xray/CT Machine - 3D X-rays for Implant Perfection� Orthodontics� Sedation Dentistry� Root Canals� Lifetime Guaranteed Crowns� Partials/Dentures� Oral Surgery� Cleaning and Prevention� Cosmetic Dentistry

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Heartland LIVING

FebruaryMarch2016

FEATURES18

The Whistling BobwhiteBy Jessica Pleger

38Shoot, Stay & Style

By Pamela Glinski

58Professional Angler

Justin MorganBy Donny Arnold

70Better TogetherBy Jessica Pleger

82Everyone has a

Story to TellBy Jennifer Goodson18

CONTENTS

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ColumnsShowcasing The Arts The Art of Illustration

Healthy LivingSpringtime Exercise Tips

Southern ChefCorned Beef Dinner with Irish Soda Bread

February | March 2016LIVING

Heartland Scene110

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Fish Branch

Photo byTraci Newlin

Story on page 18

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Behind the ScenesDining GuideHeartland Calendar of Events

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Fried Quail with Milk GravyBy Harry L. Lewis

Moscow MuleBy Jessica Pleger

Inspired by the South

February | March 2016 Volume V | Issue 1

10911th Annual U.S. Sports Aviation Expo

City of Okeechobee Centennial Celebrations

Shen-Yun - Experience a Divine Culture

2016 Top of the Lake Art Fest

Taste of Okeechobee

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5223 Sun 'n Lake Blvd.Sebring, FL 33872

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Heartland LIVING

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Behind the Scenes

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 & Marketing as creative director since 2011 and winning four Florida Magazine Charlie Awards in 2015. Bridgette is also very active in the community. She is arts and culture director of Okeechobee Main Street (11 years) and member of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. Bridgette is married to James, a retired firefighter from the City of Hialeah.

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.

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.

Pamela Glinski is a freelance writer and photographer from Sebring, Florida. A former 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.

Art Director

Photography Director

Editor Writer

Writer

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Photographer�

February | March 2016

Photographer �

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.

Caroline Maxcy runs a full service fine art lifestyle photography business based in the heart of Florida. After achieving her Bachelors in Studio Art from Florida State University where she focused on Design and Photography, she practiced in the field of design for six years before pursuing her Masters in Graphic Design at North Carolina State University in 2010. It was through this journey that she honed her artistic craft and developed a “way of seeing” that fuels her photography today. Focusing on wedding, portrait and lifestyle photography Caroline’s images have been featured on wedding and lifestyle blogs worldwide. But the true heart of her work lies in her pursuits to glorify God and “give back” through educational and charitable endeavors. Caroline has donated her time and talents to capture images and tell stories from rural communities in Peru to orphanages in Mexico to her own backyard.”

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.

Traci Newlin I am a native Floridian, born and raised in Arcadia. I still live here with husband, Jerry, 4 dogs and five horses. I attended SLU and SFU with studies in Biology Education (among a million other things). I trained barrel horses for years and competed across the nation at rodeos. My passion for art bled over into photography about twelve years ago. I am basically self-taught. I love portrait photography where my goal is to evoke some kind of emotion. I’m a member of the Professional Photographers of America and Florida Professional Photographers.

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CEO | PublisherCindy Sebring Adams

EditorJessica Pleger

Creative | Art DirectorBridgette Waldau

Feature Writers Pamela Glinski

Jennifer GoodsonJessica Pleger

Contributing WritersDonny ArnoldAdam GlinskiLayne Prescott

Bridgette Waldau

Photography DirectorRafael Pacheco

Cover | Feature PhotographerTraci Newlin

Feature PhotographersAmber CallahamSharon Cannon

Caroline Maxcy FoxJessica Pleger

PhotographersKatara Simmons

Published ByHeartland Publications & Marketing

412 Rest Haven RoadZolfo Springs, FL 33890

863-781-0344E-mail

Cindy@Heartland-Living.com

Become a fan on facebook.Visit us at

www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

HeartlandLIVING

Heartland Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Heartland Publications & Marketing. Copyright 2016, 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.

February | March 2016Volume V | Issue 1

Florida Magazine Association

Winner of 2014 & 2015

FMA Charlie Awards

Behind the Scenes February | March 2016

Layne Prescott Layne was born into a military family, has lived overseas but did most of her growing up in Arcadia. After marrying Mike Prescott, she moved to Wauchula in 1979 and now calls it home. 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.

Writer

�Writer

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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.

Amber Callaham lives in Lakeland, FL, with her husband and Goldendoodle Hank. She graduated with a masters in school counseling at the University of Central Florida and is an elementary school counselor in Bartow, FL. Helping and being an advocate for disadvantaged children is her passion and feels the Lord has led her to do. She also enjoys gardening, reading, traveling and photography. In 2012 a friend taught her how to use her Nikon and she hasn't been able to put it down since. Weddings, engagements, families and children are some of her favorite moments to capture.

Photographer

Sharon Cannon is a professional photographer as well as a licensed aesthetician and makeup artist. Her passion has always been photography. 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. 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

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Heartland LIVING

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Locally Owned

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with Celtic Music in the Tiki.

Heartland LIVING

FebruaryMarch2016

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Tom Bryant and Ryan Beasley are native Floridians. They possess first hand knowledge of the specific needs of farmers and ranchers from sole proprietors through some of the largest cattle producers in the nation. They thoroughly understand the policies and regulations of the FSA, NRCS, FDOC and Crop Insurance. Because they understand how these work, they can help interpret your relationship with them and navigate a path to make them work to YOUR TAX ADVANTAGE! They can help keep you out of IRS tax issues, and if needed, provide competent IRS/Department of Revenue audit and appeals representation!

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With the alarm clock blaring at 4:45 am, my husband, Jonathan, and I get up and get ready for a day of quail hunting with our good friends Rhett and Jessica Wiggins at the Avon Park Bombing Range. Upon our arrival at the range, we checked in at the ranger station and head down the road to the hunting area.

By Jessica PlegerPhotography by Traci Newlin

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WWe are in search of the Northern Bobwhite, commonly just referred to as the bobwhite or quail. It is a medium-sized, round-bodied bird with a short tail and neck. Their feathers are reddish brown with streaking on the sides; males have a black-and-white face pattern and in females it is black-and-buff. They typically find that the quail like to feed on slough grass seed, young myrtles, scrub oaks, and they are often found on the outskirts of wetlands, which are a source of water.

As we arrive at the place where we park the truck, we unload the jeep, and pack it for the day as we probably wouldn’t be back again until dark. Rhett likes to get there before the sun comes up to listen for the whistle of the birds; this gives him an indication of the whereabouts quail. The quail whistle to give their location to the birds that have gone astray from the

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(Front) Jonathan Pleger and Rhett Wiggins(Back ) Jessica Pleger and Jessica Wiggins

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covey. A quick rundown of the mental checklist before we leave: dogs, guns, tracking collars, and lunch. Then, we take off on the jeep deep into the 82,000 acres of land that is allotted for hunting, fishing, and recreation during a particular season and when military missions allow. Palmettos, tall grass, and a variety of trees, mostly planted slash and longleaf pine cover the land.

When we get to a spot that has prime landscape for hunting, two of the dogs, Dutch and Garmin, are let out and fit with tracking collars. These collars are used to track the dogs’ proximity to the hunting jeep. The dogs immediately start hunting for quail and we follow their lead. It’s important to think about the wind, dogs track scents best when they are working into the wind.�

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FebruaryMarch2016 (L-R) Garmin, Dutch, Banjo, Sable and Cherry

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Since it is a cool day, the dogs will be able to hunt longer than on a warm day. By this point in the season, the dogs are becoming more conditioned. During the off season the dogs tend to gain weight since they aren’t being exercised as regularly. They are also fed a high protein diet to help build muscle and hold weight on their naturally thin frame. It takes a few weeks of hunting to get them back in shape and working up to their potential.

The most commonly used dogs in Florida for quail hunting is the English Pointer. Rhett prefers the English Pointer due to their stamina and ability to handle the warm Florida climate. On this trip they brought 3 pointers: Banjo, Cherry, and Garmin. Rhett and Jessica’s other dogs, Dutch and Sable, are

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Llewellin Setters coming from Georgia and Texas, respectively. It has taken years of training and patience for these dogs to develop the skills needed to properly hunt.

As we continue to ride through the beautiful woodlands of the Heartland, they notice a dog, Garmin, on point. This is when the dog points the location of the bird. As Dutch approached Garmin, he quickly stops to back his point. The buggy comes to an abrupt stop and the guys climb off and grab their guns. There isn’t much time to waste as they approach the dogs, quail are known to have a flight speed of 0 -40 mph in just a single second. It isn’t uncommon to miss all the birds in a covey, they are lightning fast.

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It takes the perfect combination of exact timing and skill.

As the guys draw close to the dogs, they shuffle through the brush in anticipation of the flush of the covey. And then, about 20 quail rise from the palmettos, the guys shoulder their double barrel shot guns and shots are fired as the birds quickly fly off into the distance. It was a gorgeous covey rise and one of the biggest coveys I’ve ever seen. After the dust settles, three quail are killed and the dogs are called in to retrieve the birds. It was a great start to the day and we continue our trek into the woods.

Once the dogs are fatigued, they are switched out for another set

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Miss Cindy’s GardensBeautiful Garden & Lake Setting

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of dogs. People underestimate the importance of a quality dog but a significant part of quail hunting is having a bird-finding bird dog. We continue to hunt the remainder of the morning, finding a covey or two, each covey different, with usually around 6-8 birds. We then ride until we find a nice wooded shady spot for lunch, both to cool the dogs and us while we prepared lunch.

After breaking for a couple of hours, everyone has caught their second wind and we are back at it. The hunting usually gets better in the late afternoon as the weather cools and the birds become more active.On this particular day we found four coveys, an average day for a hunt at the bombing range. During the time where the Bombing Range is closed, Rhett and Jessica hunt a variety of personal hunting properties and wildlife management areas as are several of them in or near the Heartland. Hunting is different on the various terrains and the activity of the birds varies as well presenting a new challenge and experience each time.

Although this was not my first quail hunting trip, each time is unique. Quail hunting is unpredictable but that’s part of the charm. My suggestion is to go with great friends so you will certainly have a great time and enjoy the beauty deep in the woods of the Heartland.

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Fried Quail

6 quail 2 eggs 1 cup flour 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs salt and pepper to taste 3 cups milk 1/4 stick butter vegetable oil Add 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch oil to a 12 inch black iron skillet. Beat 2 eggs in a bowl.Mix flour and breadcrumbs together in separate bowl.Heat skillet to medium hot. Oil is ready when tested with drop of an egg and egg starts frying.Rotate whole quail in egg, then coat quail well in flour/bread crumb mix.Place quail in skillet and cook each side until lightly brown. Do not overcook.Remove cooked quail to paper-lined platter (to drain) and keep warm. Drain oil from skillet leaving about 2 tablespoons oil in skillet. Add 2 tablespoons of flour/bread crumbs mix (or flour) to skillet and stir with drippings to lightly brown (medium high flame).Add butter and 3 cups of milk and allow to lightly boil while stirring. Add salt and pepper to taste.When gravy begins to thicken reduce heat and cook to desired consistency.

Buttermilk Biscuits

2 cups all-purpose flour2 teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoon fine salt1/2 teaspoon baking soda8 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into 1/2-inch pieces1 cup cold buttermilk

Heat the oven to 425°F and arrange a rack in the middle.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

Whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda together in a large bowl. Add the butter pieces and toss to just coat them in the flour mixture. Place the bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes.

Make a well with flour mixture and slowly add milk into the middle. Knead dough with your fingers and add milk when necessary. Roll out dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to desired thickness. Cut with small biscuit cutter.

Bake until the biscuits have risen and are golden brown on top, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Biscuits should bake in oven while quail is frying. To serve, cut biscuits in half, add gravy, quail and top with additional gravy if needed.

Recipes submitted by Harry L. Lewis

Harry has been bird dog training for 30 years - training services available. Dogs kenneled and trained with birds at Myakka City Ranch. Phone: 941-224-1710

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FebruaryMarch2016 Contact Cindy - 863.781.0344

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Driving into the Quail Creek Plantation there is a welcoming sense of Old Florida charm. A clearing for over a dozen wooden buildings has been painstakingly carved through the stands of palmetto scrub, lush native grasses, gnarled oak, pine and cypress trees that make up the 4000-acre shooting resort.

By Pamela GlinskiPhotography by Caroline Maxcy Fox

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Rated one of the top five clay shooting clubs in the country, Quail Creek Plantation also offers half and full-day guided game fowl hunts in season, exotic species hunts year-round,

swamp buggy tours, cottages and suites for rent, fine dining with a southern flair, shopping, catch and release fishing on their 14-acre lake, and a venue for weddings, fundraisers, and corporate events.

Formerly a cattle operation, the Okeechobee property off State Road 68 was purchased in 1998 as a private hunting retreat for Fort Lauderdale developer, Harris “Whit” Hudson. The founder of a waste management company, a holding company, and the development firm Hudson Capital Group, Whit Hudson wanted a place where he could entertain friends, hunt, and relax.

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“We did the first hunt for Mr. Hudson and his friends in 1998, with me as the guide and eight dogs. Commercial hunting started in the fall of 2000...and now we have 60 dogs. The very first targets we threw were in February of 2002,” said the resort's General Manager, Fred Fanizzi, a big-game hunter and avid outdoorsman who met Hudson during a hunting trip.

Now, Quail Creek offers hunts for groups of up to 16 for bobwhite quail from the beginning of October to mid-March, Osceola turkey each spring, and continental pheasant tower shoots for up �

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(L-R) Guides Dwayne Pollard, Steve Slade and Randall Gilliard.

(L-R) FIT Students Michaela Allen, New Jersey and Molly Kingston, Pennsylvania General Manager Fred Fanizzi talks with a hunter.

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to 24 hunters from November to March. Exotic big game hunts for a variety of deer, stag and antelope can be reserved year-round.

In 2001, as the resort was taking shape, Whit Hudson met his wife, Gwen, when she was hired as the interior designer for the Quail Creek project. They were married in 2010 and now split their time in between their Fort Lauderdale home and the log house they have on the property.

“We got married in Las Vegas...and had our reception at Quail Creek, because we do weddings there,” Gwen explained. Weddings can be performed at the main lodge, with its antlered chandelier and stone fireplace, or the resort's open-air pavilion. “We are very accommodating to our clients.”

“If a client likes something at Quail Creek....anything they see, they can purchase it from me at my store,” Gwen said of the Santa Fe Ranch Western Furniture Store located on the property.

A Remington-styled bronze horse statue greets customers at the design and furniture shop, named after Gwen's original business of

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Gwen and Whit Hudson

17 years in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The store offers an air of rustic elegance with products that range from the comfortable to the high-end stylish, including sectionals, overstuffed chairs, ornately carved beds, brightly colored rugs, luxurious throws, Indian print bedspreads and western paintings. While browsing, the rich smell of leather rose from hand-whip stitched bison and buffalo leather furniture.

“When someone shops at my store, I want to accommodate their every need and have a price point for everyone,” she emphasized. As far as the resort, Gwen said she loves the clients and has a lot of repeat business. “There is a camaraderie, a strong bond, a feeling of belonging.”

Whether it is kids eating s’mores by the fire-pit, a diner savoring the chef's fried quail, a camper fishing as the sun sets, a tour setting out on swamp buggies, or a western-themed wedding with the bride arriving by horse and carriage, Quail Creek's 35 employees strive to provide an enjoyable, memorable experience for members and non-members alike. Gwen said with pride, “The thing we get the most compliments on is our employees.”

Quail Creek earned its rating among the top five clay shooting clubs in the USA by throwing nearly four million clays a year, with around 500,000 of those being National Sporting Clay Association (NSCA)

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competition targets. “We hold about one NSCA tournament a month on average, and as many as three corporate or fundraiser tournaments per week,” Fanizzi explained. Information on available packages, gun and golf cart rentals, and upcoming events is available at www.quailcreekplantation.com.

The club's covered stands and three fully-automated, 14-station, sporting clay courses are altered every couple weeks to provide shooting enthusiasts with a new experience every time they visit the club. “We are constantly moving the machines to vary your presentation,” Fanizzi said.

He explained the difference in “skeet” and the “sporting clays” they use is that angles, speeds and trajectories are always being changed to present a greater challenge. While there are other shooting clubs in the area, he noted it's Quail Creek's emphasis on outstanding customer service, hospitality and atmosphere that sets them apart. It is a reputation that has earned the resort an international client-list of athletes, musicians and politicians.

One of the highlights of their annual schedule is the Gator Cup, a four-day clay shooting event hosted by Quail Creek. Organized in 2005 as the Seminole Cup Big Blast, this year's tournament will take place February 17-21, with portions being taped for future televised viewing.

Fred Fanizzi, who holds a degree in

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Art, Heart & Soul Events & Happenings

Dogtown, USA 20% OFF all Heart Shape ItemsKathy’s Consignment Boutique Extra 10% OFF Heart- theme/ Pink items Linda’s Book FREE cooking magazine with each cook book purchaseScosta Supply & Interiors 10% OFFany ART purchaseThe Gun Rack $10. OFF the Feb.20th concealed weapon class with mention of this adwww.DowntownSebring.org

For more information onevents and merchant specials visit:

Celebrate Art, Heart & Soul Month

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Now- February 7Ring of Fire- The Music of Johnny CashHighlands Little TheatreInfo/Tickets at www.HighlandsLittleTheatre.org

February 5Florida Cattle Ranching: Five Centuries of TraditionHighlands Museum of the Arts - 6 pmwww.HighlandsArtLeague.org

February 6, 20, 27:Downtown Community Sidewalk Sale Bargain shoppers and browsers, stop by Downtown Sebring from 8AM-2PM for our local sidewalk sales. For space or more informationCall Linda (863) 382-2649

February 8, 9, 11, 16, 19, 23, 25, and 26Art Uncorked ClassesRegister for one of the Highlands Art League’s Art Uncorked classes. Classes start at 6 pmCall (863) 385-6682 or visit www.HighlandsArtLeague.org.

February 12Artist ReceptionHighlands Art League’s Yellow HouseFree admission 5-8 pmwww.highlandsartleague.org

February 12Sebring After Dark-The Art of Chocolate & WineEnjoy a romantic date night, a girls night out or just celebrate having a destination full of art and culture. Sample over a dozen wine & chocolate pairings. 7 pm-9 pm - Tickets Available at www.circletheatreevents.com

February 12-14My Valentine Lotela Gold performs great songs from the 50s and 60s. The group playstribute to Elvis, Sam Cooke, Buddy Holly and Ricky Nelson to name a few. Info/Tickets at www.HighlandsLittleTheatre.org

February 13Roaring 20’s Arts & Crafts FestivalVisit lovely Downtown Sebring 9 am - 4 pm where more than 60 craft, art and food vendors are expected to convene around Sebring’s historic downtown Circle to celebrate Sebring’s 1920’s heritage. For information Contact: Jennifer Swain @ 863-446-2973, jennifer.swain93@yahoo.com or Lora Todd @863-381-6467, loratodd@hotmail.com

February 19Florida Cattlemen’s Role as Environmental StewardsInformative panel discussion as representatives from the environmental, cattle and research communities discuss the Florida Cattlemen’s role as stewards of our natural lands. - 6 pm Highlands Museum of the Art. www.HighlandsArtLeague.org

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animal science from the University of Florida, feels strongly about give back to the community that has fostered the success of Quail Creek Plantation. He chairs the membership committee of the Florida Cattleman's Association, is a Knights of Columbus council member, and sits on the board of the economic council of Okeechobee.

“Quail Creek means a lot to us,” said his wife, Maria, the resort's Administrative Manager. “We started together and built a business. We raised our son here. He is 12 now and an avid shooter. Our whole life revolves around Quail Creek.”

Their son, Joe, is a member of Young Guns of Quail Creek, a division of the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP). The local club is made up of 100 shooters, in third to twelfth grade, divided into five brackets according to their age and ability, many have won national competitions. “The success of our club has a lot to do with the volunteer coaches that join us every other Sunday during the school year,” Fred Fanizzi commented.

“We couldn't have done this without Mr. Hudson...It's been a great opportunity for all of us,” Fanizzi said. “Very few people can make a living out of their passion and sharing that passion with others; I'm fortunate.”

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1/2 ounce Lime Juice

2 ounces Vodka

The “Moscow Mule"

4 ounces Ginger Beer

Mix all ingredients together and pour over ice.

Sir, garnish with fresh lime and enjoy!

become the vodka of choice for a properly made mule for decades.

We're not sure if this classic cocktail was ever out, but we hereby declare that it is most definitely in season, forever. The Moscow Mule keeps popping up in conversation and on cocktail menus everywhere. It may be simple, but the Mule is anything but boring. The combination of zingy ginger beer and zesty lime makes for a refreshing, lively, and layered cocktail. What's more, with only three ingredients, it's really easy to make at home.T

also known as a Vodka buck, is a drink made with a high-quality vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, garnished with a slice or wedge of lime. The name refers to the popular perception of vodka as a Russian product. The very first Moscow Mules were served in a limited edition run of copper mugs brought over from Russia. And the family that made those original mugs has decided to get back into the mule mug business after 74 years. Avid mule drinkers can get their hands on another limited edition run of the cups made to the same specifications as the ones brought over from the Soviet Union in 1941. And this time they don’t need to steal them from the bars.

In 1941 at the Cock ‘N’ Bull in Hollywood, the bar owner found himself unable to sell either the cases of Smirnoff Vodka he had purchased or the bottles of house made ginger beer. Wes Price, the bartender at the time, said he was just trying to clear out the basement. Before the Moscow Mule, Smirnoff was a tiny company owned by an almost penniless Russian ex-pat. But two years after John Martin bought the company in 1939 he got it over to the Cock-N-Bull where it would

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native Justin Morgan, 21, competed as a professional angler in the 2016 FLW/Costa Series, southeastern division on Jan. 15-17 on Lake Okeechobee. There were 250 Pro Anglers and 250 Co-Anglers competing. During the first two days of the event, each angler weighed their five fish limit and only the top 10 Anglers were allowed to advance to the last day of the tournament where the winner would receive a $110,000.00 prize package.

By Donny Arnold Photography by Sharon Cannon

Professional Angler

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did not think he was going to be able to fish in the elite tournament as they already had their 250 Anglers and he was seventh on the waiting list. On Tuesday of tournament week, Morgan, a District Aide for Congressman Cary Pigman of the Florida House of Representatives, was on his way to Tallahassee to meet Pigman when Morgan received the call from FLW, offering him a spot in the tournament. Morgan quickly replied yes and on Wednesday morning, Morgan arrived at C. Scott Driver Park for the anglers meeting and started the tournament on Thursday morning.

Morgan began fishing when he was 3 or 4 and thinks the first fish he caught was a Speckle Perch. With a grin on his face Morgan said, “My mom [Malissa Morgan] kept that fish in the freezer for many years after I caught it.” He also remembers going fishing with his grandparents, aunt, and uncle. Morgan knew

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from an early age he was hooked on fishing. “We lived on a rim canal and for as long as I can remember I would take off for the canal to fish almost every day after school and on weekends. There were times when I couldn’t find a fishing pole and would use a stick, tie on some fishing line and a hook, get a piece of bread and would fish.” Morgan caught many pan fish off of his dock. He says, “I could not even say how many times I walked back and forth from the house to the dock, a couple thousand times at least”.

Morgan didn’t think about fishing in tournaments until his sixteenth birthday when he met Randy Fulford. “He taught me how to use artificial bait and we were catching big fish. It was then I realized my passion for bass fishing.” Morgan and Randy won several fishing tournaments together including 2013 and 2014 Anglers of the Year on the Garrard’s Trail, a local fishing tournament. Morgan said, “I owe it all to him for igniting the fire in me. Randy taught me “old school” type of bass fishing and it worked.” Morgan laughs, “I now enjoy being able to show him some of the “new school” types of fishing. Randy is for sure the one who made me realize the love I have for bass fishing".

On day one of the tournament, the anglers headed out on Lake Okeechobee. Morgan said, “When reflecting back on that day, I was heading out behind Professional Angler, Ish Man, from California. As we rode down Kissimmee River towards the lake, I was thinking this is crazy to be in the same tournament as one of my childhood idols that I have been watching since I was 10 years old.”

Morgan had a Co-Angler fishing with him each day. On the first day he took off to his spot where he has been catching fish all year. Morgan ended up with a good catch and felt he could be in the upper part of the competition. When his time came to go weigh-in he pulled out five

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L-R: Alexis Muller, Kayla Morgan, Jarred Morgan, Jocelyn Martinez, Gordie Morgan, Justin Morgan, Kole Morgan, Malissa Morgan, Mike Davis, Tucker Hargraves, Keith Morgan, Megan Hargraves and Kyle Morgan

Morgan's mom watches with pride. The crowd waits for the the weigh-ins to begin.

The anglers, waiting for their turn, to go on stage for their weigh in. Morgan answers questions from the emcee, Ron Lappin.

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fish weighing a total of 18 pounds 4 ounces. At the end of the weigh-ins, he was sitting in third place out of the 250.

On day two, Morgan headed to his spot but the weather that day played a major factor for all of the boaters, with winds in excess of 30mph, rain and a few funnel clouds. Justin recalls that an angler’s boat was lifted up into the air, moved and threw his co-angler out of the boat as the cold front moved in. Morgan wasn’t having any luck catching any fish at this location. He said he remembers looking back towards the area of his favorite spot and the weather was clear with some sun shinning. He felt he had enough time to run back there, which he did, and quickly caught two fish. Soon, Morgan had to head back for weigh-in. He was cutting it close, with only one minute to spare and low on gas. Morgan knew the trouble he had fishing that day, with the rough weather, and wasn’t sure he would make the cut to fish for the championship. Morgan got the call to come up weigh his fish, and he only had two to pull out of his bag, weighing in at a total of 8 pounds 7 ounces. At the end of the weigh-ins, Morgan was excited to see his name on the leader board sitting in tenth place.

Championship day came and once the fog lifted, the weather was perfect for fishing. Morgan drove the 30 miles to his spot. On his second cast, he caught his biggest bass of the day and then he caught three more before heading back to weigh-in.

During weigh-in, Morgan pulled out his bass one-by-one, the three smaller fish first and then the big one. There were cheers from the crowd for the Okeechobee angler. Morgan’s four fish weighed in at 10 pounds 5 ounces, landing him in first place, with other anglers still to weigh in. Then the heavier weights began to come to the stage and Justin was uprooted out of the

leader seat. He was still excited at this point, knowing that he was at least going to be in the top six. After the last fish was weighed, it was official that he had placed fifth, earning him a $14,000 payday, as well as many phone calls from potential new sponsors.

Morgan had 60-70 friends, family and Okeechobee residents cheering for him as he pulled in for the final weigh-in. Morgan recalls what a great feeling that was.

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Morgan at the moment hereceived his award.

Morgan (center) is shown with family and friends. Randy Fulford, Morgan's mentor, stands (behind-r) of Morgan.

Morgan plans on fishing the next two tournaments of the FLW/Costa southeastern division. In March he will be travelling to Summerton South Carolina to fish on Lake Santee Cooper and in May he will travel to Rogersville Alabama to fish on Wheeler Lake.

It was a proud moment for this hometown boy and Okeechobee is very proud of him.

Morgan wants to thank his sponsors: A Childs World, Lake Shore Marine, Fast Break Bait and Tackle, Garrard’s Bait and Tackle, Morgan’s Furniture, Meltra Trailer Sales, Don’s Appliances, One Stop Party Shop, B.R.A.T. Club, and Waste Management.

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Morgan proudly shows his trophy and prize money.

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By Jessica Pleger

A in the art world is arranging a combination of shiny, pretty, broken, and old pieces of material into a beautiful masterpiece.�

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That’s exactly what Libbie Combee had in mind when she came up with the vision for Mosaics Community Café in Bartow. Combee who has been in recovery for over 20 years is the executive director and founder of Leland Family Ministries, a community resource center that has been enriching the lives of Polk County community for 20 years this coming June. Leland Family Ministries is responsible for the Meth-Free Project: the High is a Lie, a licensed substance abuse program that consists of both an in jail program and a court ordered education class. This program is very rare as it is the first faith based system of its kind in the state of Florida to become a licensed substance abuse agency. This labor of love became more than Combee ever imagined. The community center moved its location just a short distance from the jail to become a one stop shop for individuals re-entering the community. They are able to come there for a hot meal and even a bus ticket.

A hot meal is exactly where the Mosaics concept began a little over four years ago. The Leland Community Center offers hot meals to recovering addicts and by addicts I don’t just mean drug addicts, but additionally those addicted to food, pornography, gambling, and seniors who have suffered a financial loss or the loss of a loved one; anyone in need of a hot meal and a friendly

Libbie Combee, Founder and Executive Director of Leland Family Ministries

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face. As Combee states, “The faces of recovery are many.” Combee had been inspired by Jon Bon Jovi’s community café concept that opened in New Jersey in 2011.

When she saw Bon Jovi’s concept she was inspired but placed her idea in a file cabinet where it sat for 3 years. Combee believes that “When you get ahead of God, that’s when you mess things up,” so she waited until the timing was right and they found the perfect location on Main Street. The location was potentially going to be a boutique or a cafe but it was a unanimous decision from the Leland board of directors to seal the fate of Mosaics.

Combee wanted the location to be beautiful and inviting. She partnered with Habitat for Humanity and over 100 laborers from the community that supported her vision

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from the start. All of the wood that you see adorned over the beautiful wall, counters and tables in the restaurant were donated by Pallet One, the signs were donated by Dixie Signs and they received over $22,000 in donations for brand new kitchen equipment. Muralist Tim Hass painted the beautiful Tree of Life that adorns one of the walls of the café. Patrons can purchase a leaf, design it and it hang it on the wall. All proceeds to back to the Leland Family Ministries.

Mosaics Community Café is based on three concepts: Fight local hunger, Build the community, and Educate the Community. The first concept is simple, this café has no set prices, just a suggested donation and you can pay what you can afford. As Combee says, “It’s always better to give than to receive.” The citizens that are not able to afford a meal are asked to volunteer either at Leland Family Community Center or at Mosaics. There is an application process for volunteering and each volunteer is placed at a location that is most fitting for their abilities. One hour of volunteering is good for one Token. A token is good for one meal at

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(Above) April Bell, Front of the House Manager

(Left Photo) Beverly Daughtry Sims, volunteer from Seniors on the Move

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Mosaics. One can use the token they receive for themselves or give it to someone in need. Tokens can also be purchased at the Café and given to someone in need of a hot meal. The idea of the token is to bridge the gap within the community and so everyone is seen as an equal, it eliminates the stigma of needy people, creates dignity, and brightens the spirit.

The concept of building the community is evident in the layout of the restaurant. There are two long family style tables surrounded by smaller booths and tables. People are encouraged to sit together and meet your neighbor. Upon walking in the door you will see a sign with their sort of slogan, BETTER TOGETHER.

Mosaics has partnered with several organizations throughout the community. The AARP provides four volunteers to Leland Family Ministries, 2 in the thrift store at the community center and two at the café. Thelma is the prep chef and Loretta is the dessert chef. Loretta has already made a name for herself and is known for her famous Sweet Potato Pie and Banana Pudding. Some people come here just for her sweet treats. An intern from Keiser University is on staff as the Dietetic/Nutrition Specialist to complete her education. Bartow High School’s culinary program designs a signature dish for the café every quarter. Based on what the restaurant has available, the students are able to create a special dish to feature. Also, the café offers internships in the summer for students looking to pursue a career in the culinary industry.

This leads me into the third concept, educating the community. In the future, Combee would like to provide a 12 week, 40 hour a week professional chef program. The idea is for local businesses and individuals to sponsor the tuition for the individuals without the ability to pay. The community has

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already been a huge support to Mosaics so I foresee this to be a great opportunity and experience for all involved.

Mosaics Community Café is open Monday through Friday from 7 am until 3 pm. Currently, the café is hosting a High School Happy Hour from 2pm –4pm where students can meet, study, have a snack and even sign up to volunteer. After that, each afternoon is dedicated to a different outreach program. On Sunday, Mosaics hold a church service from 9am – 10:30 where everyone is invited to attend if they are looking for a church home or just curious to see what the Leland Family Ministries is bringing to downtown Bartow. Combee’s goal is to break down the denominational walls and make it all about Jesus. After the service, they offer family style lunches from 11am – 2pm where everyone is encouraged to share a table and meet your neighbors.

The attention the Mosaic Community Café has gained through local, national, and global news outlets has been overwhelming. It’s not uncommon for a well know news station to drop in at any given time. The initiative has definitely caught the attention of people of all ages, genders and classes and brought them together for a great cause, either to support this certain cause or to encourage someone else to give back in their own community. Combee has visitors and received donations from people from around the United States and abroad who have heard about her passion and desire to give back to the community that has supported her when she was in a time of need. It makes me happy to know that big things like this are happening right here in the Heartland.

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veryone of us has a story deep within us waiting to be released. Our stories may be diverse in color, texture, and voice but nonetheless they each tell of our dreams and aspirations. Finding our voice and the way in

which it will be heard is truly up to us. However, the same truth remains for all, there are always joys and pains, highs and lows, struggles and triumphs in how each word lands forming the lines of printed black and white.

By Jennifer Goodson Photography by Amber Callaham

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story began at a young age when he discovered that he excelled in the subjects of art and English and not so well in math and science. He found the praises given sowed a seed into his creative spirit paving a road that he travels today of being a successful writer and illustrator. He enjoys life to the fullest and embraces each day with a new light of anticipation for creativity.

Koehler grew up in Sebring, Florida graduating from Sebring High School where he gathered as much information as he could pull from two of his favorite teachers, Steve VanDam and Peggy Hogarth. From there, he continued his education at Florida Southern College pursuing a degree in graphic design. Shortly after, Koehler discovered that he enjoyed helping others tell their stories using his gifts of illustration, graphic design, and writing paired with advertising. Today, Koehler is the owner of The Fred Group, LLC an advertising firm that helps small businesses and Fortune 100 companies tell their stories.

In the midst of helping his clients tell their stories to the public, he felt he had lost his story telling voice, his identity as an artist and writer. He was frustrated, but knew he could not stop working for the sake of pursuing his passion of writing and illustrating. You might think that Koehler was tempted to give up or quit pursuing his gift all together. However, he did the opposite because once an artist of any media awakens their gift; they are never complete unless they are actively moving in that gift.

About six years ago, Koehler began telling his story again through doodling sketches and writing manuscripts, not quitting until he felt he had a winning concept to take with him to the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Conference. He remembers the excitement of attending and waving his manuscript in the air to all

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passing publishers in attendance. However, Koehler quickly learned that trying to get the attention of publishers and editors was not an easy task. Many times, he came back from a conference feeling defeated, licking his wounds, grasping the realization that his ‘stuff’ was not good enough…Yet.

Koehler will be the first to tell you, his journey to success was not easy, nor has he ‘arrived’ to his final destination on the creativity mountain. He kept attending conference after conference learning what to fix, what to adjust, what to omit, or what to add. Keep in mind, some conferences were either out of state, or a good four-hour drive from his home base and the tuition was expensive. Believing in your gift will cost you something not only of monetary means but it will cost you your time, sleep, blood, sweat, and tears as is said. You have to be willing, able, and ready for the sacrifice in order for a passion to materialize. Koehler often heard, “You’re getting there.” “You’re getting closer.” “Your work is improving.” Each time he was encouraged and rejected. He would come back with the ‘know how’ but that feeling of being defeated and the feeling of being unsuccessful followed him home, too.

Fred hangs out at Mitchell’s Coffee House in Downtown Lakeland

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Eventually, he landed on the right art style, the right narrative voice, and when these two things were put together he was given some really great advice from an art director at one of the conferences. She saw a piece of his portfolio that she had liked because its style was different from the rest. She told Koehler to throw away everything in his portfolio but to keep this one sketch.

The art director had pulled out the sketch of two elephants representing a dad and his son. She then proceeded to advise him to keep all the illustrations in the same style and to send it out on a postcard to all Koehler’s art director contacts. She then closed his portfolio and the rest well…is history, as they say.

From there, the concept of How to Cheer up Dad was

birthed. A story inspired by his son Jack, then 18 months old. This takes us to the part of Koehler’s joy his inspiration, Abby and Jack, Koehler’s two children. You will find when reading How to Cheer up Dad that the story is about a grumpy dad and his playful son. In the book, One Day, The End, written by Rebecca Kai Dotlich, Koehler’s illustrations were inspired by his adventurous daughter, Abby. His children, of course, are elated to know that they are in ‘Daddy’s books’ and often times remind him of their

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90Fred with his kids Abby and Jack at Munn Park

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New Year...New You!success, too. Super Jumbo, the sequel to How to Cheer up Dad will be released this February. Presently, Koehler has eight books under contract, although he continues to work his ‘day job’ keeping the wheels turning of his advertising business in Lakeland, Florida.

His greatest advice to aspiring writers, illustrators, artists, and all creatives is to never stop pursuing your ‘passion projects’ the shiny objects that birth so many great ideas. However, along with that, continue to maintain a career that brings financial stability because that will enable you to pursue your passions in a balanced light. Eventually, if you never stop learning, always keep developing you, will be at a place you can create fulltime and you will know when that opportunity knocks.

Koehler also says to those pursuing writing or illustrating as a career, “The amount of time you spend writing, drawing, or whatever that is what is going to lead to the success. You may write one novel that may never be published but during that time you will have learned so much about yourself, what works, and what does not, and you are going to get closer and closer to telling your story. Always remain humble and keep learning, enjoying life, and beginning each day with diligence.”

To find more information about Fred Koehler, the books he has written, and what is in the works visit his website www.freddiek.com.

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how

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By Bridgette Waldau

Illustration is a unique art form that is defined not by its medium, but by its context. Illustration finds its home in the public realm of popular media. With a rich history and a contemporary outlook, illustration brings life to concepts and stories through image-making. Whether created digitally or by hand, an illustration can be both a masterful work of art and a practical business application.

Illustrators are fine artists who specialize in illustration. The general term 'artist,' on the other hand, can refer to a wide range of careers. Just as there are many different types of artists, there are different types of illustrators.

Illustrators are art directors, graphic, package & web designers, computer game developers, character designers, digital artists, animators, exhibit designers, storyboard, and studio artists.

Illustrators create images for use in publications, such as books and magazines. They also make images for commercial products such as calendars, wrapping paper, fabric design and greeting cards. Other types of illustrators also include medical, scientific and technical illustrators. As you can see, an illustrator's work varies greatly.

Have you ever wondered what was the first type of illustration? It actually goes all the way back to cave paintings where men and women used the cave walls to illustrate their daily activities. Book illustration came after

the invention of the printing press but the Japanese and Chinese cultures had already used woodcuts to accompany hand written books. Delicate illustrations can also be found in western religious manuscripts.

The 17th and 18th centuries were an important time in the history of illustration because etchings, engravings and lithographs allowed for a faster process and the ability

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to reach a broader audience. Britain nurtured the talent of many world-renowned illustrators like George Cruickshank, who created the illustrations for Charles Dickens’ books.

The late 1800s and early 1900s are considered the golden age of illustration with numerous works appearing in books and magazines, both in Europe and America. British illustrators became very popular for their children’s books illustrations. Almost every child must have read The Tale of Peter Rabbit and seen the beautiful watercolours by artist Beatrix Potter.

During the stressful times of the two world wars, the work of illustrators was centred on propaganda posters and flyers.

From the 1970s onwards the growing development of photography made illustration take a back stage role and lose its place in the market. Photography became the dominant medium used in the media world and it also took over the commercial art scene. The late 20th century was a very bad period for illustration, however, the constant evolution of computers and the introduction of software like Photoshop and Illustrator have allowed for the re-invention of illustration, making it a thriving art form today.

Back in the fifteenth century, Leonardo da Vinci made the following remark about visual storytelling:

"And you who wish to represent by words the form of man and all the aspects of his membrification, relinquish that idea. For the more minutely you describe the more you will confine the mind of the reader, and the more you will keep him from the knowledge of the thing described. And so it is necessary to draw and to describe.”

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By Adam Glinski

Exercise Tips

Spring is in the air- We've nearly made it through another winter, and the warm weather has returned from its short respite. With the holidays over, we can return to a normal Florida lifestyle. If you are like a lot of people you have been exercising the last few months, possibly working toward new goals that you have set for yourself. Maybe you have been in the gym or following some of my at-home fitness tips. Either way, great job, and keep up the good work! Now that the weather is so pleasant, it’s a great time to get outside and switch up your routine to keep things fresh.

Hiking or nature walks- Living in a wonderful state such as Florida provides us with ample opportunity to observe all kinds of nature and wildlife. Get out and explore the miles of trails in local parks, walk around one of the Heartland's many beautiful lakes, or take a stroll down a beach...all of which are great ways to keep active and healthy. It's always a good idea to look at maps of an area and plan your walks, sticking to the main trails, so you can chart the distance and time you have hiked. Wear good supportive shoes or boots to

protect your feet. For elderly hikers, a cushioned insole can soften your steps to help prevent pressure on your back or hips. Also, don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray and your camera.

Join a sports club- Do you like to ride a bicycle, kayak, run, or maybe you play shuffle board, basketball, tennis, softball, golf, or pickle ball? Odds are there are clubs in your area. Join a group of like-minded people who enjoy the same things you do. A 2007 Stanford University study found that even a small amount of social support helps to keep individuals engaged and motivated. Outdoor activities are always more fun with other people. Can’t find a group that fits your needs? Get organized and start one. There are plenty of people out there looking for �

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someone to help them get started and work toward their goals.

Move your workout outdoors- Even if you are more of a gym (or home gym) body and prefer weights and functional movements to outdoor sports, you too can benefit from taking it outside. Ask your gym if they have an area outside where you can exercise. Just feeling the sun on your skin while you work can be a real motivational booster. Also, sunlight is a great way to produce some natural vitamin D, which helps raise energy levels.

Whatever you like to do to stay active and healthy, Florida is a wonderful place to do it. With the return of our world famous weather, this is the perfect time to start. Whether you are hiking, playing sports, swimming, yoga, or working out, being outside is great for your body and for your mind. Just remember the sunscreen. See you outside!

Always consult with a physician before beginning any exercise program.

Southern Recipesby Layne Prescott

Southern Chef

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Dinner

1-Large Corned Beef (6-7 pounds)2 cups potatoes (quartered or halved, depending on variety)2 large onions-quartered1 bag (1 lb) carrots-peeled and cut into 1-2 inch pieces½ cabbage (green)

Glaze:1 cup brown sugar¼ cup yellow mustard (should be thick paste)

This meal can be prepared the day you plan toserve or done overnight if needed earlier in day.

Remove corned beef from package and rinse. (Option-use seasoning packet). Place cornedbeef in lined 5 quart slow cooker.

Cook on Low for 8 hours or on High for 4.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Dinnerwith Irish Soda Bread

After corned beef is cooked, remove from slow cooker and place in foil lined glass baking dish and cover. Do NOT discard liquid from slow cooker. Set aside.

Prepare vegetables. Cabbage, remove unwanted outer layers. Keep core and slice cabbage in moon shapes leaving core (this will keep cabbage together).

Place vegetables in slow cooker liquid in this order: potatoes, onions, carrots, and cabbage. After each layer, lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Turn slow cooker on high until vegetables are tender. Note: if you do not have a Low and High setting on your slow cooker, you can place reserved slow cooker liquid in Dutch oven and cook vegetables on the stove top.

While vegetables are cooking, prepare glaze, spoon over roast. Place under broiler until starting to brown and bubbly. Turn oven off, cover corned beef with aluminum foil and remove from oven. When vegetables are tender, place 4 T. butter over vegetables and allow to melt. Turn slow cooker off.

Plate vegetables and roast. Serve and enjoy!

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4 cups all-purpose flour2 Tbsp. white sugar1 tsp. baking soda1 Tbsp. baking powder1 tsp. salt½ cup butter, softened1 cup buttermilk1 egg

¼ cup butter, melted¼ cup buttermilk

(Note: buttermilk substitute-add white vinegar or lemon juiceto whole milk)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and ½ cup softened butter. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg. Turn onto floured surface and knead lightly just until dough forms ball.

Combine ¼ cup melted butter and ¼ cup buttermilk and brush over top of bread dough. Score bread.

Place on parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Note: Start checking for doneness after 30 minutes. Continue to baste with butter and buttermilk while baking.

Irish Soda Bread

Layne's menu in this issue gets you ready for St. Patrick's Day.

She has prepared a delicious traditional meal that may be served anytime ofthe year with ease.

So, get out yourslow cooker and prepare this tasty meal, serve and enjoy!

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See ad on page 15

See ad on page 47

Cowpoke’s Watering Hole is a family owned restaurant and bar in Sebring, FL. We serve Choice Chairman’s Reserve Certified Premium Steaks along with a large selection of seafood, pasta and scrumptious appetizers. Menu Highlights: Escargot, Oysters, Ribeye, Filet, New York Strip, Lobster Tail and Pasta.

Live Music in the Tiki on Wednesday Night from 5pm – 8pm and Sunday Afternoon from 3pm – 6pm. Inside Stage – Live Music Thursday, Friday & Saturday Nights.

Monday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pmFriday & Saturday 11 am – 2 am Sunday 12 pm – 9 pm

www.cowpokeswateringhole.com

6813 US 27 South | Sebring | 863.314.9459

Cowpoke’s Watering Hole

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Island View Lakefront Restaurant & Pub

Island View Lakefront Restaurant offers a unique dining experience like no other in Highlands County. We offer a variety of great American food from fried green tomatoes, ribs, and a variety of sandwiches to our Friday Night Prime Rib dinners. Our Sunset Dining menu includes dinner and house beer, wine or soda starting at $11.00.

Monday – Saturday 11 am – 8 pmSunday 11 am – 5:30 pm Bar Services and Light Sandwiches Served

Sunset Dining:Monday – Saturday 3:30 pm – 7:30 pmEvery 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 11

5223 Sun N Lake Blvd.| Sebring | 863-382-1191

See ad on page 51

Eighteen EastRestaurant and Bar

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 Monday - Saturday 4 pm - 9 pmCall for Live Entertainment Schedule.

www.beststeakaround.com

Eighteen East... a restaurant and bar!

18 East Main Street | Avon Park | 863.453.1818Downtown Avon Park

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See ad on page 89

Papa John’s Pizza

At Papa John’s we strive to create great dining experiences through authentic, superior-quality products, legendary customer service and exceptional community service. We pride ourselves in providing a menu that’s prepared with only the finest ingredients from fresh vegetables to our never frozen, hand-tossed original dough and superior-quality tomato sauce. We are committed to exceeding your expectations.

Family Style Restaurant | Take -Out| Food Delivery Service Locally Owned, GeoDev Pizza, Inc. by George A. Hall andDevon P. Donaldson

Open 7 Days 11 am - 11 pm Carry out 11 am - 9:40 pm

www.papajohns.com

See ad on page 81

935 Sebring Sq. | Sebring | 863-386-1177

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 holiday and special event and for up to 300 guests for an unforgettable celebration! BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW!

GRILLIN' CHILLIN' SHOOTIN'Lunch Served 7 Days a Week 11 am – 4 pmSunday Brunch Buffet 10 am - 2 pm (Reservations Preferred)

www.okcorralgunclub.com

High Noon Café & Crystal Ballroomat The OK Corral Gun Club

Friday Night Chuckwagon Dinners in March

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Sweet & Savory Catering

Pink Pineapple

(407) 637-4756

“You create the Event,.. we’ll create the Menu”

Personal & Private Chefs Fully Prepared Meals

Dietary Speci�c Meals

Baby & Bridal Showers Weddings | Special Events

Business Meeting | Holiday Parties

Appetizers, Dessertsand Everything in Between

Full Service Catering | We Deliver

info@pinkpineapplecatering.com

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Florida Fence Post Co., Inc.

5251 State Road 64 West/ P.O. Box 645Ona, Florida 33865

1-863-735-1361 1-800-580-1019

“The Post Preferred by Florida Cattlemen”

“Our Posts Meet TheFederal Standards!”

CCA .40 Ret.

Cash Discounts F.O.B. Ona, Florida

The Best Prices and Longest Lasting Posts.

Serving Central Florida since 1946.

Fence Post |Barn Poles | Brace Posts | Cow Pen PostRough Cut Lumber | Cattle Panels | Portable Corrals | Fence Stays

Barbed Wire | Field Fence | Farm Gates Game Fencing | Hay Rings | Assorted Mulch and Soil

Additional Store LocationLake Placid Feed & Western Wear

417 US Hwy 27 SouthLake Placid, Florida 33852

www.flfencepost.com

25 Year Limited Guarantee “Branded for Your Protection”

LIVING

You can advertise in the mostwidely distributed and readmagazine in the Heartland!

Your ad will not only be seen inprint but also on our website.

Advertising Helps YouGet to Where You Want to Go.

www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

863-781-0344Cindy@Heartland-Living.com

Call or email us if youwant to become a part of this fast

growing publicationHeartlandHeartland

for the Statler Financial Radio Show

Today.Tommorrow.Together

803 US Highway 27 SouthSebring, FL 33870

Join Phillip Statler every Saturday

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1pm - 2pm on the WWTK 730am

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Heartland LIVING

FebruaryMarch2016

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OKEECHOBEE MAIN STREET EVENT!

SPECKLED PERCHFESTIVAL

Parade Saturday - 10:00 am

Saturday & Sunday | 10am - 3pm

Arts and Crafts ~ ActivitiesHandcrafted Goods ~ Music ~ Food

For more info call 863-357-6246

In Beautiful Flagler Park on State Road 70 - Okeechobee, Florida

www.okeechobeemainstreet.org

March 12 & 13

Free Event!

OKMS CORPORATESPONSORS:

$10. Registrationto Show Your Vehicle

Car Show!

51st Annual

Bank of America - Big Lake Cancer CenterOneBlood - Quail Creek Plantation

Syfrett Feed Co.Seacoast National Bank - Walpole Inc

PLANTATION

• Quail Hunts• Pheasant Hunts• Lodging• Sporting Clays• Private Events• Corporate Groups

www.quailcreekplantation.comEmail: reservations@quailcreekplantation.com

(863) 763-2529

Quail Creek Plantation12399 NE 224 Street

Okeechobee, FL 34972

Set Your Sight on this premierSporting Clays Facility and Hunting Perserve

in South Florida!

Visit Rustic & Lodge Decorat Quail Creek Plantation

Florida Western Superstore& Interior Desisgn Services

Heartland LIVING

FebruaryMarch2016

Heartland

SCENE

109U.S. Sports Aviation Expo

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FebruaryMarch2016

Heartland LIVING

11th Annual U.S. Sports Aviation ExpoPhotography by Katara Simmons

Marina and Alain Lebrun take a break while they scope out the Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. The Lebruns’ were visiting Miami from their home in the south of France and traveled to Sebring specifically to see the expo.

Expo Volunteer Steve Robbins gets nose to nose with a plane that’s designed to fit in a trailer during the U.S. Aviation Expo at the Sebring Regional Airport.

FebruaryMarch2016

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts from around the world descended on Sebring, Florida, from January 14-17, 2015, to participate in the 11th annual U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. The event was held on the Sebring Regional Airport adjacent to the Sebring International Raceway.

The Expo showcased affordable aircraft and a variety of aircraft-related accessories and aircraft exhibitors offered demo flights continuously through the event. Educational forums that discussed the various aspects of owning and operating affordable aircraft took place daily along with hands-on workshops and noted aviation speakers.

The Expo is always a big hit for aircraft enthusiasts and spectators alike.

.

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The rain didn't stop the crowd from gathering for the Centennial Festival of Lights which was held Friday, Dec. 4 in the City Park. The Okeechobee All County Chorus, which is comprised of singers from the county's five elementary schools, performed Christmas Carols. Following the carols, the arrival of Santa, the lighting of the Christmas tree and a tour of City Hall and the City Fire Dept., was open to the public. The holiday movie Elf was shown in one of the fire department bays for the children and parents.

City of Okeechobee Centennial CelebrationsThe City of Okeechobee ended their year-long

celebration with two Winter-Wonderland events.

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Mayor Jim Kirk addresses the public.

(Left) City Hall was opened during the festival. The public got to see the beautifully decorated City Hall, the historical time line display and the new commemorative brick walk-way.

City Administrator,Marcus Montes De Oca

(Left) The spectators enjoy the festival celebration.

"Sparky"

Photography by Sharon Cannon and the Centennial Committee

Heartland LIVING

FebruaryMarch2016

The City of Okeechobee Centennial Christmas Frolic street dance was held Dec. 11 on the street in front of the Historic Okeechobee County Courthouse. The party started with music from Pioneer Days, then continued with music from each decade up to current times. Participants were encouraged to come in costume of their favorite decade. A feel of winter was in the air when the snow began to fall in the snow play area, sponsored by Okeechobee Main Street and the City. The party also included a historical display in the Historical Courthouse, a display of Monster trucks, food and a photo booth. The event was a fun ending to the City's year-long centennial celebration.

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Sharie Turgeon, Okeechobee County TDC director Snow fell around the dancers.

(Left) Richard P. Mattern proudly shows a picture of when he was a young man.

Madison Norsworthy Snowenjoyed playing in the snow.

Centennial Committee members:Donna Gaiser and Magi Cable

(Right) Kimberly Marquette and Amber Marquette dressed for the "Hippy era".

Square dancers

The Department entertains the crowd.

Dressed in pioneer attire, couples enjoy dancing in the street during the frolic.

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Shen Yun Performing Arts had humble beginnings as a small nonprofit organization based in upstate New York. It was established by a group of talented ethnic Chinese artists who came together with a shared vision—to revive genuine traditional culture and share it with the world. And as soon as it started touring in 2006, Shen Yun was an instant success.

On January 5 and 6 at The Lakeland Center, the one-of-a-kind performance revived the stories and legends from thousands of years of Chinese culture. Shen Yun has toured to over 100 cities worldwide, performing in front of millions across North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

One of its trademarks is that each new season the company creates a brand-new production, which remains secret until the day the curtain finally rises. This year’s performance was enhanced with a live orchestra which was phenomenal.

Photos courtesy of Shen Yun Promotions

Shen Yun Experience a Divine Culture

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The tenth annual Top of the Lake Art Fest was held on Jan. 23 and 24 in downtown Okeechobee. The juried art show features fine art by local and national artists. Local artists and students also show their work in the art gallery tent. The show featured a kids art zone, sponsored in part by Children's Services Council of Okeechobee County. Street painting and sand sculpture also brought enjoyment to the art fest. The popular Taste of Okeechobee followed the art fest on Saturday. For more photos of the event and winning artists go to www.okeechobeemainstreet.org

Best of Show artist Leland Williams

An Okeechobee High Schoolstudent Casandra Franco won first place in the studentdivision of steet painting.

Bass fish sand sculpture by artist Wade Wheeler.

Student Best of Show "Tiger"by Augustine Baltazar

Arts & Culture Director Bridgette Waldau and OKMS President Maureen Burroughs present the poster award ribbon to Robin Sparks. His eagle photograph (shown at top of photo) will be the image for the 2017 Top of the Lake Art Fest poster.

(Above) Judges Choice artist Robin Sparks

(Below) Fawn McNeil Barr paints an original in the gallery tent that she donated for a raffle, which one lucky person won at the art fest.

Art FestOkeechobee, FloridaArt Fest

Top of theLake

2016

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Photography by Sharon Cannon

Photography by Sharon Cannon

Heartland LIVING

FebruaryMarch2016

The second annual Taste of Okeechobee at the Top of the Lake Art Fest drew a big crowd and was a fun evening for all. The cool weather did not hold back the local restaurants from showcasing their specialties nor the tasters from enjoying all the flavors as they strolled along main street in downtown Okeechobee. The event also included a beer & wine garden, entertainment by the Schooleys and prizes for the "passport " tasters. Culinary chefs voted for the best taste and local tasters picked their "people's choice." To see more photos and all the participating restaurants, go to www.okeechobeemainstreet.org.

of Okeechobee

OK Corral Gun Club and High Noon Cafewas voted 2016 Taste of Okeechobee

Tin Fish Seafood won the "People's Choice" award.

Tasters get served at the Parrott Island Grill and Nature's Pantry station.

The station of Nutmegs and Lightsey's Seafood.

The Schooleys entertained in the Beer & Wine garden.

To the delight of tasters, the restaurants served a wide variety of food from sushi (Parrott Island Grill) to chocolate covered strawberries (Brown Cow).

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Photography by Sharon Cannon

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Highlands County

Hardee County

February 13Boots & Bling a Sweetheart Soriee

6 pm | DeSoto County Fairground Arcadia

February 20Vintage Car Show

5pm – 9pm | Oak Street | Arcadia

February 27Antique Fair

Historic Downtown Arcadia

March 19Vintage Car Show

5pm – 9pm | Oak Street | Arcadia

March 26Antique Fair

Historic Downtown Arcadia

February 13 – 2075th Annual Hardee County Fair

Fairgrounds | Wauchula

February 20Heirlooms & Originals

Main Street Market | Wauchula

March 3 – 548th Annual Pioneer Park Days

Pioneer Park | Zolfo Springs

March 19Heirlooms & Originals

Main Street Market | Wauchula

events

DeSoto CountyFebruary 12 – 20

Highlands County FairHighlands County Fairgrounds | Sebring

February 12 - 14"My Valentine"

Highlands Little TheatreFri. & Sat. 7:30pm, Sun matinee at 2:30pm

356 W. Center Ave. | Sebring

February 1333rd Annual Roaring 20s Arts & Crafts Festival

9am – 4pm | Downtown Sebring

February 19Chen Dental Fundraiser Golf Tournament

Sun N’ Lake Country Club | Sebringwww.chendental.com for more information

March 4 - 13"Greater Tuna"

Highlands Little TheatreFri. & Sat. 7:30pm, Sun matinee at 2:30pm

356 W. Center Ave. | Sebring

March 5SFSC Foundation 5K Panther Walk/Run

8am | South Florida State College | Avon Park

March 5Race to Taste

6pm – 9pm | Civic Center | Sebring

March 7 – 21Firefly Festival

6pm – 9pm | Highlands Hammock State Park | Sebring

March 16 – 1964th Annual 12 Hours of SebringSebring International Raceway | Sebring

calendar of2016

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Polk County

Okeechobee CountyFebruary 12- 14

78th Annual Brighton Field Day Festival & PRCAGates Open 8am | Fred Smith Arena

Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation | Okeechobee

February 19 - 206th Annual Battle of the Big O

OL Raulerson Jr. Scholarship FundGates Open Friday noon | Saturday at 9amAgri-Civic Center, Hwy 710 | Okeechobee

February 263rd Annual Wild Game Dinner

5pm – 9pm | Quail Creek Plantation | Okeechobee

February 27 & 28The Battle of Okeechobee

10am | Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park

March 4 - 6Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival

Sunshine Grove | Okeechobeewww.okeechobeefest.com

March 4, 5, 11,12"Getting Sara Married"

Okeechobee Community Theatre8pm each evening, 2pm matinee on Mar. 12

S W Second Avenue | Okeechobee

March 12 & 1351st Annual Speckled Perch Festival & Parade

10am -3pm (Parade - Saturday 10am)Flagler Park | Downtown Okeechobee

March 15 – 20Okeechobee County Fair

Agri-Civic Center, Hwy 710 | Okeechobee

February 27 & 2850th Annual

Swamp Cabbage Festival

Barron Park | LaBelle

February 135th Annual Auburndale Auto Classic

10 am | Downtown City Park | Arburndale

February 2011th Annual Tractor Drive through the Groves

Florida Flywheelers Park | Ft. Meade

February 26 – 28Autism Awareness “Rockin’ on the River”

Camp Mack’s River Resort | Lake Wales

February 27Brewz Crewz 2016

2pm | Citizens Bank and Trust | Lakeland

March 5Murder Mystery Dinner Series

10am – 2pm | Ritz Theatre | Winter Haven

March 5 & 6Bloomin' Arts Festival

10am – 5pm | Main Street | Bartow

March 192nd Annual Sandy Ridge Music Fest

Crooked Lake at Webber University | Babson Park

March 26Lake Wales Car Show

4pm – 8pm | Downtown Lake Wales

Hendry County

February | March

Want to announce your April | May 2016community event in our next issue?

email us at jessica@heartland-living.com

Event listings subject to change. For more informationabout an event, please contact event organization.

2016

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HeartlandLIVING

Heartland LIVING is your very ownLifestyle Community Magazine.

Mailing Address: Heartland Publications412 Rest Haven Road | Zolfo Springs, FL 33890

To Subscribe Visit our Website atwww.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com

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吀栀攀 㜀㔀琀栀 䄀渀渀椀瘀攀爀猀愀爀礀 䌀攀氀攀戀爀愀琀椀漀渀 椀猀 倀爀攀猀攀渀琀攀搀 戀礀

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www.Gilbert-Ford.com

(863) 763-21213175 U.S. Hwy 441 SouthOkeechobee, FL 34974

Serving the Heartland Areafor over 90 Years!

Over500NEW and Pre-OwnedVehicles to Choose From!

“I buy from Gilbert’s because its family owned and they make you feel like part of that family.”

- Cory Greenway Local Musician/Guitarist

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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.

Rediscover Highlands Medical Group.

When it comes to finding a doctor, we’ve got you covered.

BREAST & GENERAL SURGERYL. Francisco Espaillat, M.D.

FAMILY MEDICINEDonald Ware, D.O.

GASTROENTEROLOGYJessica Narvaez-Lugo, M.D.

INTERNAL MEDICINEEuclides Marmolejos-Baez, M.D.Robert Midence, M.D. James Ruch, PA-C

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERYTahir S. Chaudhri, M.D.

UROLOGYKwabena Pobi, M.D.

VASCULAR SURGERYM. Braimah Saaka, M.D.

83681_HIGH_MedGrp_9x12c.indd 1 3/16/15 2:27 PM