HCA Today

Fall 2014

   


 For several years Heartland Cultural Alliance (HCA) has been in the headlines,as well as working behind the scenes to advance the art & cultural (A&C) community in Highlands County. The results are most visible in the record number of grants awarded to A&C organizations by the Tourist Development Council (TDC) this past year.

 
A&C organizations are using this source of revenue to create brochures, websites, fliers, postcards, social media campaigns and to advertise events out-of-county. The use of these funds enables organizations to raise their profile and activities at a time when the TDC is about to launch a two year, $200,000 media campaign to brand Highlands County as an A&C destination.


This is the first time Highlands County is reaching out to attract the cultural tourist. TDC has partnered with A&C to select a marketing firm experienced in cultural tourism. We should get a foot up and learn from this professional campaign.


Studies show the more cultural attractions/activities available, the more cultural tourists attracted. We are a rural community surprisingly rich in museums, murals, galleries, live theater, a world class performing arts venue, etc. Our central location enables us to tap into markets on both coasts of Florida, as well as Orlando. Research also shows that the cultural tourist enjoys discovering new places rich in local art & culture. That's us!


In cataloging our cultural assets we discovered Highlands County has a special place in Florida art history. The Highwaymen were brought to light here as was Peter Powell Roberts. The Florida Master's Collection of art at MOFAC, is the best in the state/world, and the  Florida themed murals of Lake Placid are the best in the state/world  


The county's place in Florida art history should become known and, along with our rich cultural assets and charming/historical rural setting, be used to entice the cultural tourist away from overcrowded urban centers.


With this in mind HCA is especially excited to announce its partnership with Avon Park to turn the second floor of the Community Center into the Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art and Cultural Center. It will be a beautiful addition to our cultural resources (see story in this issue). The HCA Center in the City of Avon Park will spread our cultural assets countywide and encourage overnight stays. This, in turn, will give us more tourist tax dollars to promote the county.


 Let the chain reaction begin. We are on the right path. Speaking of which, every path has pathfinders In this issue HCA wishes to spotlight and honor two couples that fostered the county's cultural growth, Elsa & Marvin Kahn and. Goldie & Gerry Garnich (see stories below).

 

   

In earnest,

Fred Leavitt, President

Heartland Cultural Alliance

Honoring Elsa Kahn
by Sherry Carlson
                                                 Elsa Kahn                               Photo (c) Fred Leavitt
The citrus growers, among many, have honored the Kahn family since the arrival of immigrants Mike and Sadie Kahn to Sebring in the 1920's. Their son Marvin and wife Elsa became Sebring residents in 1957 and made their own contributions to benefit the area. This article features Elsa and her work with others to establish the Highlands Art League (HAL).

Elsa met Aronette Schneck (Mrs. Herbert Schneck) in 1960 and describes her as "a vibrant, energetic, talented artist and fund-raiser who moved here from New York." Both women wanted to increase area interest and opportunities in the arts.

They gathered like-minded others and first met in an unused Sebring School classroom to paint and share their talents. As interest spread, the group rented the old Elks building on Center Street and brought in local and other area art instructors to teach classes.

By 1967, Aronette and Elsa had organized the Highlands Art League of 31 charter men and women members. Mrs.Kahn was on HAL's first Board of Directors and served in many other capacities throughout its development.

In 1996 County Commissioner Doris Gentry interviewed Vice President Elsa and then President Marge Richardson for a South Florida Community College's "Comcast Connection" video which documented HAL's central role in culturally enriching Sebring.

Elsa and Marge described HAL's expansion into the purchased Bogle House (built 1818) on Commerce Street; the first Art Show, chaired by Elsa and Anne Reynolds, held on the surrounding porches of the old Tourist Club Building on Ridgewood ; and the 1986 Museum of Arts (MOTA) building completion during the presidency of Jackie Andrews and largely made possible by Elsa's fundraising events. Elsa became MOTA's Founding Director. HAL's county-wide membership averaged about 150-200 people in the early 90's. Both adult and children's programs were well established prior to Sebring's 75th Anniversary. Many plans formulated then (Alice Stroppel's dream of an artists' village) have now become a reality.

Beyond HAL involvement, Mrs. Kahn has painted exceptional portraits of family members. She began and ran her own company "Art Overtures" for about ten years. The company sold "calming" ceiling murals, designed by one of 4 or 5 artists, for doctors' offices and clinics. Also sold were one- of -a -kind original, painted headboards for children beds.

Elsa has also been active as a mentor to two students in the Take Stock in Children program, and in the Cancer Society, organizations serving developmentally challenged children, the College Foundation, and political party activities. Elsa's family-of-origin history was a part of the SFSC's "Journeys" display at the Museum of Florida Arts and Culture (MOFAC) in winter 2012-13.

Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art
& Cultural Center

by Fred Leavitt

     

     

Who would have guessed that a therapy dog visiting a Sebring nursing home two years ago would result in an art museum and cultural center being developed in Avon Park? Strange, but true.

The therapy dog, Sheba, belonging to Fred Leavitt led the way to the room of previously missing Florida Master Artist Peter Powell Roberts. Mr. Roberts was found suffering from diabetes, COPD and depression.

When Sheba lay her head in Mr. Roberts lap his depression lifted. Over the ensuing years a friendship between Roberts and Leavitt grew. Robert's passion for painting was reignited. He continued to paint until he died in April, 2014. 
 
Peter Powell Roberts left 133 oil on wood paintings and 8 sculptures to Heartland Cultural Alliance. The collection is the largest body of Robert's work known and is valued at $3,000,000
.
HCA has been working to preserve and display this collection in a museum that would attract the cultural tourist. It would also be a cultural center exhibiting local art and a venue for music, literature, lectures, classes and special events. 

The concept earned a $116,000 grant for the services of MDI Creative, a planning firm specializing in developing sustainable museums. The architectural renderings that illustrate this article are part of an economic impact study and long range plan developed by the company. 
 
With plan in hand HCA contacted Avon Park with a proposal to develop the second floor of the Community Center into an art museum/cultural center. The City of Avon Park supported the concept to the extent that they will rent the space to HCA for five years at $10 per year; provide utilities, and $35,000 toward upgrading the 3,000 square foot facility.

The plans by MDI Creative would require another $150,000 to complete a world class facility that would benefit all of Highlands County and attract the cultural tourist. HCA is launching a fund-raising campaign to complete the project in time to be included in the TDC 's planned outreach to the cultural tourist
.
This is a community endeavor coordinated by HCA. We are looking for donations and volunteers. Please support this initiative to make our county a better place to live in and visit.

Contact HCA to become involved in making it happen. It all started with an act of kindness. Play it forward.

 

Attracting Cultural Tourists
"Its about WE not ME"
by Sherry Carlson

The TDC's Marketing Committee Meeting  August. 26, 2014 included a presentation by Massey Communications, the Orlando firm, contracted for a campaign to brand Highlands County as an art and culture tourist destination. 


Massey's President/CEO Sam Stark and the Director of Public Relations Susan Vernon-Delvin described their goals to develop a collaborative marketing strategy to boost tourism on and off peak seasons. Based on their initial research into the A&C venues and Highlands County location strengths and weaknesses, they identified target audiences and campaign strategies for four tourist categories and the niche markets of artists, kids and family, women, seniors and empty nesters, history and architecture buffs. 


Highlands County's central location, rural setting, pace of life,and A&C attractions create a formula that can act as magnet to the cultural tourist. Massey will be developing a campaign using social media advertising / viral campaigns, advertising in regional publications/ radio and public relations (press releases, stories submitted to travel publications, media alerts etc.) short promo videos as well as professional photography for in county publications that encourage extended stays.


The Massey representatives stressed "It's about 'WE' not 'ME' "approaches and promotions covering three cities "as one." The next step, a meeting of Highlands County's A&C organizations and Massey Communications professionals, is in planning stages. 

 

Representatives from art and cultural organizations, countywide, will be invited to meet with representatives from Massey to help shape the campaign. 

 

Another outcome of that TDC Marketing Committee meeting was the approval of $20,000 for grants in 2014-15 to A&C organizations.  This is in addition to the $200,000 branding campaign.  

 

HCA Today Sponsor -   

sfscarts.org 
HCA Pathfinder
 Goldie Garnich
I was born August 30, 1939 as a coal miner's daughter,
                               Goldie Garnich         Photo (c) Fred Leavitt

in a little town called Red Jacket, West Virginia. My mother was a housewife and mother of 14.

My family moved to Trenton, NJ, where I attended school, worked and enjoyed performing in school plays, choruses, and church choirs. My love of the arts included piano lessons and dance lessons. Later, when living in central New Jersey with my husband, we took advantage of the close proximity of New York and Philadelphia and attended many stage productions.

I earned an A.A.S. With Honors from Mercer County Community College at age 38, and a B.S. degree from the College of New Jersey at the age of 44. I worked in the New Jersey Legislature for 25 years, retiring as a Computer Center Supervisor.

Upon retirement in 1997, my husband Gerry and I moved to Sebring and began a 16-year involvement in the arts starting with Highlands Little Theatre (HLT). I started appearing in a number of productions. I was nominated as best actress in a drama in my "Arsenic and Old Lace" character. My most favorite role was the Fairy Godmother in Krista Flores' Children's Academy of Theatre production of "Cinderella, Cinderella."

In 1998 I became Secretary of the HLT Board. In 1999 I was elected President of HLT and was instrumental in obtaining a State grant which resulted in many improvements and upgrades to the theatre.

I wore many hats at HLT including:President, (3 terms); Secretary and member of Board of Directors (7 years); Secretary, Play Selection Rules Committee;Secretary, By-Laws Committee; and Special Events Coordinator. I also solicited and created ads for playbills; worked with Chairs of the Box Office, Membership, & Wardrobe Committees. After I earned a Florida Food Managers Certificate, I became Gourmet Committee Chair for six years and managed the wait staff, food preparation, food service, and cleanup. I served as House Manager and as Cocktail Waitress, received HLT Gracie Award for Service, and was awarded Life Membership in HLT.  I was Instrumental theatre expansion raising funds for building the Drs. Thakkar Pavilion (Black Box Theatre), I also Chaired "The Glad Hatters." Readers Group for six years, participated in dozens of shows, performing gratis for local charities, clubs, and organizations. .

Because of my exposure to the many facets of art in Highlands County, I became a member of the Heartland Cultural Alliance (HCA) in 2001 and served as President of HCA for six years. During my tenure with HCA many events were held to fill our coffers such as nine Heritage Festivals and four Antique Appraisal Fairs, Unfortunately, severe health issues forced my retirement from the Alliance but my husband and I remain avid supporters.

I will always be a supporter and promoter of culture in the Heartland because of my firm belief in the value of culture including the performing arts, the visual arts, and all related areas of cultural enrichment. We are blessed in the Heartland with a wealth of fellow citizens who both support and participate in the arts.  We are blessed to have cultural achievements like the new Circle Theatre, Children's Theater, marvels like Krista Flores and, of course, Fred Leavitt.

Lake Wales Ridge Project
Back on the Road
 
Photo (c) Fred Leavitt
On June 7 the Lake Wales Ridge exhibit came back to Highlands County and opened at the HCA Airport galleries. This well attended reception was highlighted by a talk on the Ridge by Patty Lloyd to a crowd struck by the beauty of the images and eager to learn about the importance of this threatened ecosystem. The Ridge exhibit hit its mark again. In addition work sold,

This body of work created by HCA artists is in demand and will begin a second year of touring Florida Libraries.  Next stop Broward County. 
HCA Today Sponsor
.
HCA Board of Directors
Meet Robert Flores. 
 PhD
by Sherry Carlson
                                   Robert Flores         Photo (c) Fred Leavitt
 The 8 year old Robert, his mother, father and brother came to the United States from Cuba, just two days prior to the Cuban Missile Crisis. They settled in Chicago, Illinois.

Young Robert loved music and nurtured his appreciation via the city's radio stations, concert venues and by volunteering as a roadie for his brother's band. When returning home from one concert, he was mistaken for a 1968 Democratic Convention protester and tear-gassed! Robert visited area museums, attended classes at The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture and developed knowledge in the visual arts. Later, when his family moved to South Florida, he used his training to get work as an interior decorator and carpenter.

In the 80's Robert attended Middle Tennessee State University for his Business Administration Bachelors Degree. There he met his future wife Krista, a theater major and artist, during a production of "Inherit the Wind." The casting director chose business students to play "somber jurors." Robert was able to act the part and was selected. Krista saw beyond the role and got to know and love his colorful personality and exuberance. During this decade, Robert also became a finish carpenter and worked for the Gibson Guitar Factory making such pieces of art as the B.B.King Lucille and Les Paul guitars. He was a frequently invited guest to Nashville recording studios and Grand Ole Opry openings.

In the 90's Robert completed his Masters Degree in Business Administration at Palm Beach Atlantic College and his Doctorate in Public Administration at Nova Southeastern University. He worked for the Palm Beach Community College's Facilities Department for 8 years. From 1994-96 he also was an Adjunct Professor for business students there. At the Boynton Beach Mall, he assisted Krista with her Black Box Theater project which brought children (whose parents needed kid-free time to shop) onto the stage for successful performances.

The Flores family moved to Highlands County in 1998. South Florida Community College hired Robert for the Facilities Department (Currently Facilities Manager) and as an Adjunct Professor for business classes. For 16 years, he also was the man behind- the -scenes for Krista's Children's Academy of Theater productions. Since 2004 he has taught at the Graduate MBA & MPA programs of Barry University. Robert's professional affiliations have included The Association of Florida Colleges (commission officer), Fire Public Pension Trustee Association and the Community Redevelopment Association.

Robert got involved with HCA as a board member under presidents Rose Bell and Goldie Garnish. His construction, production and business expertise continue to be utilized by HCA's Fred Leavitt for gallery and the Peter Powell Roberts Museum development. "I have enjoyed being a part of the community striving to improve the quality of life through the arts," says Robert. "I know my three daughters have benefited"   Robert's ambition, energy and enthusiasm are invaluable.   

 

Artist Workshop
  
NEW RELEASES
by HCA authors

Winter Harvest
by Anne Reynolds

Dana Winter is a bestselling author whose life is left in shambles by loss, scandal, and a failed marriage. Unable to write, she accepts an invitation from her estranged aunt to come to her cattle ranch in Colorado to heal. She learns to appreciate this new life and accepts her failures are a result of making poor choices. Dana finds love but rejects the possibility of another damaged relationship. Her self-ban on men conflicts with neighbor, Buck Bannister, and his pursuit of a relationship. This is a novel about forgiveness, redemption, and personal growth.



Papa's Promise
by Millie Richmond

Now available at amazon.com (e-book and paperback) Enjoy this slice of history through the eyes of young Esther as she, her mama and her sister flee Russia in the early 1900's and make the challenging trek to America.
 
There will be a book signing by Millie Richmond at the HCA Sebring Airport Galleries for the opening of the Mark Stanford's exhibit, November 1, 12 - 2 PM.
 
 
 
 
Dippy Duck's Adventures
by Barbara Beswick
 
The story is designed for readers at the high third grade level to early junior high and is richly illustrated by the author with full page pictures of life on the farm and the animals that lived there. The duck, Dippy, is rescued by a boy, Erich. Tally, the family dog...a Dalmatian, tags along on the adventures and a Glossary in the back covers the words that may be unfamiliar to the reader. 
Dippy Duck's Adventures (and Beswick's other book, A Christmas Moon) can be viewed at pagesofwonder.com and can be purchased at amazonbooks.com or from the author at book signings or by arrangement (contact barbara@barbarabeswick.com). She will appear at the HCA galleries at the Sebring Airport from 12-2 PM on October 4th and Wells Chrysler Dealership in Avon Park on December 6th all day. 

The Accidental Baker:
a cake for every crisis,
by Barbara Miachika, 

Barbara's book explores a perfect marriage gone wrong. Suddenly single and penniless, Barbara needed a plan for survival. She paired her homemaker skills with her passion and flair for food to create a successful career in the culinary world. The message in the book is,"You your dreams are within your reach: you can do it". 


 

HCA Sebring Airport Galleries

Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, seven days 

    

Artists of the

 Caladium Coop

September 6 - 29th. 

    

The Heartland Cultural Alliance (HCA) is pleased to present  an exhibit of fine art featuring the work of the Lake Placid Caladium Arts & Craft Cooperative.  

 

The show includes the work of Beverly Marshall, Tina Bologna,  Burke and Carter Even,  Judy Nicewicz, Chris Filip, Linda Carr, and Maureen Fulginiti.  


 

 

(c) Beverly Marshall.
Mother and Daughter

Beverly Marshall

&
Tina Bologna 

October 4 - -28
Artist's reception, Oct 4

from noon to 2 PM. 

 

Beverly Marshall is an award

(c)Tina Bologna

 winning artist who has competed against thousands, internationally to win placement in prestigious shows.  She is self taught, works in a variety of medium and just turned professional two years ago.  Website 


Tina Bologna is a young, talented and driven artist exploring  drawing, painting and digital art.  

 

Book signing by  Barbara Beswick at opening.  Refreshments, libations, raffle, and classical guitar by Kenny Summers.  Open to the public. Free.

 

   

(c) Mark Stanford

  

Florida Expressions
By Mark Stanford
 November 1 - 30

Artist's reception, Nov.1

from noon to 2 PM.

  

Mark Stanford, a listed artist, started out painting with a knife in oils. In 2010, he entered a knife painting in the A. E. Backus Florida, Best of the Best Florida Art Show. His painting was displayed and sold to an important collector.  The following year he studied under Almed Eltemtamy and was soon selling work to galleries, art dealers, and collectors. Website
 
Book signing by Dottie Rexford and Millie Richmond at the opening.  Refreshments, libations, raffle, and classical guitar by Kenny Summers.  Open to the public. Free.
 


 
(c) Pam Jesseman
Mother and Daughter

Pam Jesseman

Karisa 
December 6 - 29

 Artist's reception, Dec. 6

from noon to 2 PM.

 

Pam Jesseman graduated Tucson Arizona, and studied photography and graphic design at SFSC. 

Pam has worked with Acrylic, Watercolor and Digital Photography.  Pam's greatest passion has been in digital photography--both portrait and nature.  Pam also enjoys creating designer greeting cards.  

https://youpic.com/user/pamjessiman 

 

(c) Karisa

Karisa graduated:  Lake Placid High School - President of Art Club in High School, attended: Columbus College of Art and Design and is currently attending: South Florida State College. She workes with: Pen and Ink, Acrylic, Sculpting, Graphite on paper, and has made beautiful handmade jewelry.   

 

Karisa received scholarships from Caladium Co-Op and Columbus College of Art and Design. She has painted two murals at South Florida State College (entrance of the Career Development Center & Adult Education ).  Her work has been seen locally and statewide.    

 

New Members 

Orange Blossom Tours, Business


Cindy Garren, Dean, Cultural Affairs, SFSC


Joyce Miles, Supporter


Barbara Miachika, Author

 

Hi Hammock Painters, Artists


Highway Park Community Development Council


Maria Sutherland, Supporter


Gaylin Thomas, Supporter


Romana Washington, Supporter


Scott Dressel, Photographer, graphic designer, musician


Reginald LeGros, Artist


Ted & Lana Puckorius, Supporter


Artistic, Frames, Graphics, Signs, Business


News Sun, Business

 

Elsa Kahn, Surporter
 
 

Letters 

 

This addition to the newsletter is to give our readers expression and share their thoughts about HCA, HCA Today and its contents.  Send letters to info@heartlandculturalalliance.org.  All letters for publication must be identified with the writer's name.

 

Fred

 

That was a good article in the paper this a.m.  As I read the article I had a feeling, perhaps relief, that we are now not all alone in our efforts to promote our towns and the county as a whole.  It has been difficult without advertising dollars and expert knowledge as to where to advertise.  

 

 When they outlined all the tourist related organizations in our county that many of us never think about, I was astonished.  We know they are there, but do not think about going to see them on a regular basis.  There are several that could be added to a bus tour.   We are all interested in our own attractions, and now it is time to all work together.

 

Harriett Porter, President, Lake Placid Mural Society & TLP

 

 

On Your Birthday 
Florida State Arts Plate Dear HCA,

I just got my Florida State of the Arts license plate and the process could not have been easier! I wanted this colorful, happy-looking tag the moment I saw it but I put it off because I thought the process would be a time-consuming hassle. Was I ever wrong! I was the only person at the desk and I was in and out the door within 5 minutes with the tag in my hand.

 

People ask me all the time where I got this pretty tag because they want one too. I am quick to tell them that $20 from each tag is donated to the HCA. Its a really good thing!

Miss J. L. "SAM" Heede

SpringLake

 

Buy a Florida State of the Arts license plate. Enrich yourself and your community. $20 from the cost of the plate is donated by the state to HCA.  The funds are then re-granted by HCA to A&C organizations in Highlands County.  Show you care and wear your new plates proudly. 

Support HCA Today and grow your business

HCA Ad
All contents (c) Heartland Cultural Alliance Inc. 
In This Issue
Honoring Elsa Kahn
Museum of Art...& Cultural Cente
Attracting Cultural Tourists
HCA Pathfinder...Goldie Garnich
Lake Wales Ridge Project...Back on the Road
Meet Robert Flores....PhD
NEW RELEASES
HCA Airport Gallaries Calendar
New Members
LETTERS
Arts License Plate
CALENDAR - EVENTS
Members Links
CA MEMBERS
CALENDAR 
OF EVENTS

 


Website 

  

 Abhinava Dance Company

November 22, 2014
7:30 pm

Direct from India, Abhinava explores new ways of bringing out the essence of Indian dance to appeal to audiences around the world by fusing modern and ethnic dance. Under the creative leadership of Nirupama and Rajendra, Abhinava delivers a passionate performance with dazzling costumes and beautiful choreography accompanied by global music. This family friendly performance takes you on a journey to witness the passion of gods, the happiness of lovers and the serenity of perfection. Tickets
Gold Section - $30
Silver Section - $25
Bronze Section - $20
Individual tickets go on sale online Monday, Oct. 13, 2014 and at the Box Office Monday, Oct. 20, 2014

 

 

Jim Brickman "On A Winter's Night"

December 01, 2014
8:00 pm

SFSC Theatre for the Performing Arts
For 20 years, Jim Brickman has been one of the top-selling pianists and top-charting adult contemporary artists in the U.S. The two-time Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling pianist and songwriter will warm your spirits as he weaves together serene holiday favorites new and old along with many of his hits in one spectacular concert.Tickets
Gold Section - $39
Silver Section - $33
Bronze Section - $29

 

 

A Christmas Carol

December 11, 2014
7:30 pm
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is one of the most beloved holiday traditions. This new adaptation of the ever-popular story fills the stage with veteran Broadway actors, lush costumes, stunning sets, music, dance, and a timeless message. Get into the holiday spirit with this enchanting tale and classic carols.Tickets
Gold Section - $38
Silver Section - $32
Bronze Section - $28

 

   

MUSEUM OF FLORIDA ART AND CULTURE
(c) Robert Butler
Tribute to an American Painter: Robert Butler - Wildlife and Landscape Artist
September 24 - December 5, 2014 
Robert Butler, is an American painter best known for his paintings of the wildlife and woods around Florida's Everglades area. He was a member of the well-known African-American artist's group, The Highwaymen. He was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame, along with the other original Highwaymen. 
Butler developed his own style, which was exemplified by fine detail and a dramatic, romantic lighting. He painted every Florida ecosystem with an abiding love for the swamps, palmetto flats, hardwood forests, rivers, lakes, pine flats, and wildlife of wild Florida. 
For many years, I've lived close to nature and witnessed the beauty my privileged eye has been allowed to see. As an artist, it is important to me to share my experiences, and whenever I work, it is the larger view that I strive to maintain. I invite you to look at your experience in the same way. The textured tapestry we call reality is constantly changing. An artist is one of the few who will be privileged to add his or her special splash of color. My love for the land is the strength behind my paintings, and I know there are many others who share my feelings. 
- Robert Butler


Science Bugs 
November 14, 2014 - March 5, 2015 
Dustin Angell, Mark Deyrup and Tim Lethbridge 
Science Bugs celebrates local ecology and research by exploring insects using three kinds of representation. Tim Lethbridge's photography captures moments of insects "in the field," giving us a glimpse into their lives and ecological roles. Dustin Angell's studio-like photographic portraits offer an intimate view of specimens from scientific collections, highlighting the structures of their bodies and the scientific research related to them.
Dr. Mark Deyrup's scientific drawings of insects reveal the defining traits of species, and show how entomologists need standardized and highly detailed depictions of insects. Through these three artists, Science Bugs gives viewers a look at an important part of ecology as well as the methods of how insects are studied.


NASA'S Beautiful Earth 

Thursday, October 16, 2014 - 1:00 pm to 2:15 pm 

NASA'S Beautiful Earth 
is teaming up with South Florida State College and Archbold Biological Station to create an art, music, and science event for our community. Beautiful Earth is a unique education experience for people of all ages that combines the live music of Kenji Williams with a multi-media presentation of NASA visualizations and time lapses and a NASA guest scientist. South Florida State College Museum of Florida Art and Culture is hosting a free performance for college students and the public. 
This public show will include Kenji's multi-media performance, and a short talk from NASA Earth Scientist, Dr. Thorsten Markus.


 

  HIGHLANDS LITTLE THEATRE

September 4th
:   Monthly Volunteer Meeting & Potluck, 6 PM. Open to all interested persons.
 
September 10 - 21
BUS STOP  Wed, Fri and Sat evenings at 7:30 PM, Sat & Sun at 2:30 PM.  Classic bittersweet comedy.  In a rural Kansas diner on a howling wintry night, things heat up when stranded passengers of a cross-country bus explore love in all of its many guises.  
September 10 - November 23: Season Ticket Subscription Packages available. Variety of packages and prices. Buy a package to save off individual show tickets.   
October 2:   Monthly Volunteer Meeting & Potluck, 6 PM. Open to all interested persons. 
October 11: Pink Army Strut venue. Web   
October 18: 28th Annual ZENON AWARDS show   7:30 PM.  Highlands County's version of the Tony Awards. Get dressed up and join us as the envelopes are opened to reveal the winners. Categories include Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Play of the Year.   
November 6:   Monthly Volunteer Meeting & Potluck, 6 PM. Open to all interested persons. 
 
November 12 - 23: ANNIE GET YOUR GUN   Wed, Fri and Sat evenings at 7:30 PM. Sat & Sun at 2:30 PM.    A fictionalized version of the life of  Annie Oakley, a sharpshooter who starred in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show and her romance with sharpshooter Frank Butler.  Music and lyrics by Irving Berlin. Book by Dorothy Fields and Herbert Fields. Songs include "There's No Business Like Show Business."
For tickets and more information: visit, or call 863-382-2525

Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative

Through Sept. 29th 
Caladium Artists' exhibit at Sebring Airport, daily 9-5. Membership info available. Please sign the guest book!  October 31 Halloween Event for the Children... come and trick or treat.
Visit Lake Placid the first Friday of the month for their Art Walk festivities. For more information CLICK 
 
TAG schedule for classes  
The Artist Group schedule for classes begin the fall season with:
Clay Works/ Ceramics with Betty McCarthy. September 10 - October 22, 2014. This is a 7-week session on Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. - noon. Cost is $125.00; all supplies included. All clay classes are held on SFSC campus in the Art Building.
Acrylic Painting with Louise Weis. November 5 - December 17, 2014 (no class Nov. 26). This is a 6-week session on Wednesdays from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Cost is $105.00. Students bring their own supplies; supply list is available.
** Registration for TAG classes is made through SFSC Registration Office. Phone:863-784-7405.
Beginning in January, we will have a variety of classes available.: Acrylic Painting, Acrylic Made Easy, Abstract Painting (acrylics), Watercolor, Oils and Clay Works. For information call the studio at 863-784-7346


Back Porch Revival concert
Highlands Hammock CCC Celebration Festival, Saturday, November 8th, 2014
10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Lots of Activities, Vendors and Displays
Live Music all day featuring Back Porch Revival, Jackson Creek, Banyan Bluegrass Band, and Brian Smalley
 
HI HAMMOCK PAINTERS
Presents  

 Plein Air Painting Workshop with Dennis Aufiery
 This will be an exciting opportunity to work with a nationally known artist and teacher in the Highlands Hammock State Park. This 3 day workshop is being offered by the HI Hammock Painters of Highlands County Florida, a new Florida Plein Air Group. Regrestration October 1.  Workshop January 8,9,10 2015.  For information contact Clara Caroll (517) 775-8952 Email 


FICTION WRITING CLASS

by Millie Richmond 
Whether you enjoy writing as a hobby or are striving to be published, this class can help to strengthen your skills.  
Join us at South Florida State College -- Avon Park Campus  
Mondays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.  
October 6 through November 24, 2014  
Bldg T  
$58.00 for all 8 classes  To register, call 863-784-7405
 
HIGHWAY PARK FOUNDERS' DAY CELEBRATION
 October 23 through October 25, 2014
. This is a FREE three day festival sponsored by the Highway Park Neighborhood Council, FL Division of Cultural Affairs, Highlands County Tourist Development Council, SunTrust Bank, Publix Supermarkets, and other great sponsors. The event will be held on historic Washington Street and MLK Sports Field in Highway Park. All are invited. Wear your family TShirts or favorite sports team colors. You don't want to miss this family oriented event featuring: 
FREE WORKSHOPS: OCTOBER 23 - OCTOBER 24
A free health fair (hosted by the Fl Dept. of Health, Ace Home Health Care, Florida Blue, LP Lions Club, and Florida Hospital Heartland)
"Voice of the Ancestors" Free Senior Luncheon and Panel Discussion" (RSVP required). Friday 10/24.
African, Modern, and Interpretive Dance Workshop by Tomika Boone of Sankofa Dance Theatre, Savannah, GA. - Friday, 10/24
Drumming Workshop by Felix José of Yagozo Latin Jazz Band- Friday 10/24
Rap It Up - Poetry & Spoken Word competition
"Critic's Cube" Movie review (2 movies depicting African American culture & panel discussion), October 24 from 7:00PM - 10:00PM
"The Summer Wall" cinematography workshop by Rick Shorrock of Big Byte Video (students must register) - October 23 - October 25, 2014.
Elimination rounds for 3 on 3 basket ball tournament..support your favorite team
FESTIVAL DAY
Business Zone - Vendor information on businesses, colleges, SBA, etc.
Art Walk - Featuring select art pieces from Adrian Pickett (of the Adrian Pickett Gallery in Jacksonville, FL).
Kids Zone - Toby the Clown Museum has been invited for the children's activities. There will be fun and games (face painting, egg races, sack races, & other old fashioned fun).
Games: Sign up to compete in the Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, Dominoes, & Chess and win wonderful prizes
3 on 3 Basketball Tournament Playoff ...win prizes
Live entertainment
Gospel Concert. The event will be held on historic Washington Street in the Highway Park community of Lake Placid
For information, call Tiffany Green at 863/840-2995, Teddy Callahan at 863/441-5008


Heart of Highland Show Chorus
 November 22, 2014 The Heart of Highland Show Chorus (affiliated with Sweet Adelines Int'l) will host our annual scholarship fundraiser.  We will present a   Fashion Show and Luncheon at the fabulous Chateau Elan Le Mans Ballroom in Sebring, FL for only $25.00 each, which also includes a short performance by the Heart of Highland Show Chorus themselves. Tickets are limited so don't wait, call 954-240-9999
 
Sebring
SCRIBBLERS

& SCRIBES

First Wednesday of every month at Beef O'Brady's

Meeting at 7 pm. with a variety of writing topics throughout the year.  Come one hour early for dinner.

.  Group Leader, Barbara Beswick, can be reached at 863-402-9181 for further information on Florida Writers Assoc. or Scribblers and Scribes

 

Spread the word

HCA members this is your space for announcing events.  It is a free membership perk. 

HCA is your voice to the creative community.
Use it.

  
 
Heartland Cultural Alliance

Get updates and a host of member benefits