HCA TODAY
Winter 2015



    


 
Highlands County suffered a loss in the passing of cultural pioneer Larry Levey. He has helped shape the county's cultural growth and HCA (see lead article),  


HCA will be creating a book section of local authors in the Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art & Cultural Center. A portion of book sales will be set aside for a scholarship fund in his name. In this way he will continue to stimulate growth in our cultural community. 

Speaking of growth; working on this issue of HCA Today I was struck by the 
remarkable increase of listings in the Calendar of Events. Member organizations have become energized. There are more classes, events and cultural undertakings than ever before. 

New organizations like Hi Hammock Painters, Highway Park Neighborhood Council, and the 15 member Off the Circle Gallery are adding diversity and vibrancy to our growing cultural scene. Art & culture in Highlands County is becoming mainstream. This is no accident.

These are exciting times brought forth through the efforts of many. In each issue we celebrate the cultural trailblazers who led us to this point (see Honoring Jim Fitch). It also introduces you to some new players who are adding their colors to the cultural tapestry of Highlands County,
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The edition also contains a couple two-steps-forward, one-backward progress reports. This is a good thing. It sheds some light of what is involved when art & culture work with government to reach our common goals. It is further evidence of growth.

Art, culture, government and business working together is what it takes to reach the next level. This is what HCA is about. Thank you for your support.
  

   

At your service,

Fred Leavitt, President

Heartland Cultural Alliance

Lawrence Harold Levey, 1933 - 2014
By Romona Washington
Lawrence Harold (Larry) Levey, a man with great passion for the written word and history,
died Saturday, Dec. 20, 2014 at the age of 83. Among the numerous affiliations and accomplishment of Larry, he was an advocate for improving cultural opportunities in Highlands County and became a member of the Heartland Cultural Alliance in its formative years. He taught classes whenever and wherever the opportunity arose that encouraged people to better learn the written word, and to record their very own history.

Born in Watertown, N.Y., he attended North Adams State Teachers College in Massachusetts, earned a bachelor's degree from Queens College in New York City and a master's degree in Psychology from Michigan State University. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and worked mainly as an administrator in the mental health field in Colorado and in Michigan for the departments of mental health and corrections.

Larry and his wife, Elaine Gardner, were both correspondents for the News-Sun and created a first-ever photo-history called "Yesterday: A Family Album of Highlands County" at the request of the News-Sun.

Larry loved to write, with over 30 years as a freelance writer. As a News-Sun correspondent, he put together special publications on topics like WWII, the Red Hatters, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and local tourist destinations.
He was president of the former local chapter of the Civilian Conservation Corps. He served as a board member of the local unit of the American Cancer Society, receiving the unit's "Courage Award" in his battle against cancer. He also headed up the local chapter of the Prostate Cancer Support Group. He had served as president of the Historical Society of Avon Park, producing a DVD of the reenactment of the first nine years of Avon Park. He was the recipient of a number of awards for his writing and his community involvement.

"A Celebration of Life" service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22 at Stephenson Nelson Funeral Home in Sebring. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Compassionate Care Hospice, 4139 Sun N Lake Blvd., Sebring, FL 33872 or to Temple Israel.
Honoring Jim Fitch
by Sherry Carlson,  Photo Fred Leavitt
Artist, sculptor, and legendary cultural entrepreneur,
Jim Fitch
Jim Fitch has been a promoter and contributor to the Art and Culture community in Highlands County for over 50 years. Forty of those years were spent as owner of Kissimmee Valley Gallery on Highway 98 in Sebring, an art gallery dedicated to the art and artists of Florida. He says that retirement doesn't work for him so he now creates his own art, guides various artistic enterprises and organizations, and continues to advocate for Florida's art and culture.

Born in Ohio, ( Jim says he has forgiven his parents for that) they moved to Broward County when he was 3, he joined the Navy at 16 and married Anne Smith at 18. After Jim's Navy discharge, the couple returned home. Jim couldn't believe the drastic changes that had been made in South Florida in just 4 years, all for the worst as far as he was concerned. He left a family business and moved his family to a 43 acre oak hammock on the Kissimmee River at Fort Basinger. The property came with a two story house, built in 1894, with heart pine transported on steamboats from the town of Kissimmee, He told Anne he was taking her home because she was born in Sebring, Now all 3 sons, 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren live in Highlands County.

Fitch's pioneering accomplishments in the world of Florida art include being the founder of the Museum of Florida Art and Culture (MOFAC), the Cowboy Artist Association of Florida (CAAF), The Association of Florida Environmental Artists (AFEA); the founding president of the Kissimmee Valley Archaeological and Historical Conservancy, a past chairman of the Highlands County Historic Preservation Commission, past director of the Highlands Art League (HAL) and a producer of a video series (Painting Southern Landscapes) which featured artist Robert Butler and aired on PBS stations in 1993,
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Along the way he built the collection of Florida art at MOFAC and discovered and named the artists now known as the Highwaymen. For information on the publications and presentation projects authored by Jim and major exhibitions and public installations he curated, promoted or produced, see http://www.floridaartservices.com/JimBio.html

Mr. Fitch served on the Heartland Cultural Alliance Board of Directors in 2003-2005. On September 24, 2010, HCA honored Jim and his work at the Grand Opening of the Gallery of Fine Arts which he organized at Sebring Airport. Then mayor, George Hensley, read a proclamation declaring the date as Jim Fitch Day.
Jim has created furniture and many sculptured pieces using what he calls deadhead cypress and is well known for his pecky cypress picture frames. He describes his work as viewer friendly and it can be seen at Artistic Frames,Graphics& Signs in Sebring where he manages the frame shop.

Jim's advocacy, art, and experiences have showcased Florida's natural and unique beauty. He has State-wide recognition as the current acquisition agent for the Florida Masters Collection. Thank you, Jim

Member Spotlight
Plein Air Painters Workshop
By Clare Carol. Photography Fred Leavitt

The Hi Hammock Painters began in the summer of 2014

as a simple idea conceived by a small group of local artists. The idea was to bring plein air activities to Highlands County and the surrounding area. With support and advice from local groups it was decided to organize a workshop. 

A search was undertaken to find just the right person to start us off. We decided to invite Mr. Dennis Aufiery from Jupiter Florida. He was very interested and enthusiastic about teaching new concepts to those willing to stretch their imaginations.

We wanted to have the opportunity to learn from an instructor who was new to our area and able to convey concepts that would challenge us. Mr Aufiery offered a workshop entitled Color, Light & Mark Making,. His instructions included how to produce light through color and to create a dynamic composition with movement and  spatial tension in landscape painting.

The workshop took place on January 8 - 10 with 15 participants. The location chosen was the Highlands Hammock State Park. The park provided an incredible amount of material with which participants could work.   

Time was spent inside doing studies with color aid paper to help participants visualize the idea of color and shape creating believable spaces. Then participants went outside to sketch. This was followed by a period of painting after which colored paper was applied creating striking changes in the works. We all worked hard to leave behind the idea of creating pictorial, picturesque work and focused on seeing color and shape to form stronger pieces.

All together it was a wonderful experience for all who participated. We hope that others will be encouraged to develop similar programs. We will continuing to promote more plein air activities in the future such as plein air painting excursions, a 'paint out' or more plein air workshops. Contact Clare, [email protected] t

 

HCA Today Sponsor -   

sfscarts.org 
HCA Photo Challenge
A Fund-raiser
 
The Off Circle Gallery
The New Gallery in Town
 
The Off Circle Gallery
 
located at 133 N Ridgewood Dr., Sebring, will open its doors for business on Friday, 1/16/15. Hours are 10 to 5 Wed through Friday and 10 to 2 on Saturdays. 

This exciting venture unites 15 artists to create a wonderful gallery of two and three dimensional art, with the added touch of the literary works of Anne Reynolds. It is a great addition to the county's cultural assets.
 
HCA welcomes The Off Circle Gallery as a member(s). Collectively they are: Tom Bruha, Dotti Bade, Jan Fetters, Clara Carroll, Shirley Stone, Rose Besch, Barbara Wade, Anne Reynolds, John Lasco, John Henry. Bill Snyder, Megan Ekensted. They are part of a vibrant, growing art & cultural community, on the launching pad.

Join us in celebrating their achievement at the Grand Opening of The off Circle Gallery on Wed. Feb 4, 10 am to 6 pm.

Artistic Frames Graphics Signs
by Sherry Carlson, Photo Fred Leavitt

  

Custom framing by Jim Fitch.

 

Robert Freeland, the owner of Artistic Frames Graphics Signs , says his business, though thriving, is "somewhat under the radar." Its location is 2607 Alt. 27 South, close to the "lighthouse," and behind the south-end Publix. A newer member to HCA, the company has continued to add to its already steady clients. Our featured A&C Honoree, Jim Fitch, has joined with Robert on a part-time basis to construct custom-made cypress and pine frames. Jim says the turn-around time of framing artwork can be as short as a day because of the extensive inventory available. Fitch is also expanding the shop's display area to include a FLORIDA ART GALLERY. 

 

Mr. Freeland bought the building (signs, supplies, equipment included )with a partner in 2004. When the partner moved out of Sebring in 2007, Robert became sole owner, A Highlands County native with an extensive background in management and ownership, Robert first learned the business for practical reasons, but soon was captured by its creative draw. 


 
Stock items include trophies, mats and frames. His equipment includes digital printers and a large laminator (up to 4' width, any length). From store front window signs to the County Sheriffs' cars, he is fascinated by customers' visions, wants to keep them happy and give them quality items at fair prices. 

 

Business hours for consults or installations are 8-10 am, Monday through Friday, with walk-ins welcome from 10 am-5 pm. Mr. Freeland, or assistant Virgilio Batista, can be reached at (863) 382-2752 or by e-mail at rfreeland@ artisticfgs.com. The best time to reach Mr. Fitch would be on Wednesdays.
 

HCA Today Sponsor
.
Founders Day in Highway Park
by Sherry Carlson, Photography Fred Leavitt

 

In late October 2014, the Highway Park Neighborhood Council hosted a three day Founders' Day Festival. The multi-cultural, multi-generational event was a successful manifestation of the Council's mission--"to restore and preserve Highway Park through advocacy, beautification, education, health, senior citizens, children's programs, arts and cultural programs that enhance the quality of life of our citizens..." 


The event was the brain child of Council President Tiffany Green, who along with Executive Director Evelyn Colon started the planning and gathering of resources. Within a year and with the aid of corporate sponsors, Council officers VP Sarah Sholz, Treasurer Teddy Callahan, Secretary Patrice Ayala and volunteers, the event took off. Interviewed by several reporters, both Colon and Green mentioned how the "then and now" stories of the community elders touched all present at the Senior luncheon and how the health fair provided vital information for so many.
 

Festival workshops included dancing by Tomika Boone of Georgia's Sankofa Dance Theatre, drumming by Felix Jose of the Yagozo Latin Jazz Band joined by Donna Lee Helton and Fred Leavitt, and cinematography by Lake Placid's Rick Shorrock of Big Byte Videos. The JROTC unit from Lake Placid High School also gave marching lessons to interested children. 

 

Entertainment came in the forms of family games, sport competitions, a car show, art exhibit and performances by workshop leaders, the University of Florida Gospel Choir, national recording artists Stormy Adkins, and N'Kosi Saint Nik Jones, and Andrea Mathis of Bountiful Blessings Church and the showing of the film "42." Vendors' tents tantalized shoppers 

 

For more information on the important work being done in this community and the next big event-- the Feb. 28th Black Tie Charity Gala, visit www.hpng.org

HCA Today Sponsor

See Calendar of Events sidebar
CONGRATULATIONS
 
Three local writers won Royal Palm Literary Awards at the 13th Annual Florida Writers (FWA) Conference held in Lake Mary, Florida Oct. 24-26, 2014 as follows:
Anne Reynolds, 2nd Place for "Winter Harvest," Pre-Published Women's Fiction
Millie Richmond, 3rd Place for "Papa's Promise," Middle Grades category
Christine Yarbour, 3rd Place for "A Shower of Children," poetry category

Mrs. Reynolds' and Mrs. Richmond's written works and Mrs. Yarbour's art were all featured at the HCA silent auction event "A Taste of The Arts." The three writers are also active members in "Wordsmiths" (Avon Park Library) and "Scribblers & Scribes" (Sebring Beef O'Brady's). Each has read from their works at "Scribes Night Out," (Brewster's Coffee Shop in Sebring) and held book signings throughout the County.

The 2013 FWA Book of the Year award winner and HCA member, Dottie Rexford, recently received even broader acclaim for her book, "Cora Pooler." From the 2013 1st place winner in the FWA's Unpublished Women's Fiction category, she has become the 1st place winner of the 2014 Writers' Digest Self-Published Book Award in the inspirational category.
NEW RELEASES
by HCA authors
A Will of Her Own
by Anne Reynolds

Katie Mulholland pulls J. D. Stetson from his truck in a Louisiana canal and sets into motion a series of events which will change her life forever. Five years later, J.D.'s grandson and CEO of Stetson Enterprises, enters Katie's life. J.D.'s will puts Katie at Corazon, a Florida Ranch, with Judd and his seven-year-old daughter, Dori. Judd does not put out the welcome mat, and he brings Dori's aunt and guardian to the ranch as a barrier to his growing attraction to Katie. Judd discovers through conflict, frustration , and her bid for independence that Katie has a will of her own.  A Will of Her Own placed second in the Royal Palms Literary Awards for Pre-Published Women's Fiction.
.website


Meet HCA Board Member
 Gaylin Thomas
.Gaylin Thomas
Gaylin Thomas is a seventh generation Floridian with a rich family heritage in Avon Park and Highlands County. Employed as a Grants and Programs Specialist at South Florida State College (SFSC), she is a welcome addition to the HCA Board, especially now that plans for the Peter Powell Roberts Museum and Cultural Center are taking shape. Gaylin sees her involvement as a means to her goal--"bringing art and culture into the lives of children and at the same time boosting local economic development."

Gaylin grew up with a love of horses and stories of Cracker Trail cattle drives. Historically her family experiences often paralleled those written by Florida Artists Hall of Fame author Patrick Smith. Gaylin's paternal grandmother, Estella Skipper, wrote and also painted. Her painting of a Skipper homestead can be found during Pioneer Park Days in the Skipper-Hart Cabin in Zolfo Springs. 

The grandmother's other paintings as well as Gaylins's own, adorn her home. Gaylins's father, who was a song leader at their church, passed down his vocal talents and love of music to Gaylin who also took piano lessons,  Lillian Depp, artist and the first exceptional student teacher in Highlands County, also encouraged Gaylin to explore the arts.
 
Gaylin continues to value educational, Christian and civic duty goals. She is proud of her 45-year marriage and family which includes 3 married sons and 4 grandchildren. 

Raising her family interrupted Gaylin's college studies to which she returned as an adult. In 2006 she received her AA in Education at South Florida Community College; in 2014 she got her Bachelor's of Applied Science with majors in supervision and management at South Florida State College. Gaylin's college affiliations included the Florida Association of Community Colleges and Phi Beta Lambda. 

An active church member at the Church of Christ in Avon Park, Gaylin says her hobby, when there's time for it, is reading the Bible and sharing what she knows. 

Her Granddaddy Harvey Thomas Piety, the Clerk of Courts for 27 years in Highlands County, modeled a sense of civic responsibility for Gaylin. As a past Board Member of the Ridge Trail Association, Gaylin helped formulate the 2nd Strategic Plan for the County. In 2008 Don Appelquist asked her to join the Avon Park Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Council. She currently serves as the Main Street District's Deputy Chairperson. 

Voting, of course, in all elections, Gaylin this past year had to take a picture of her 106 year old Grandmother Lila Oxford Rogers at the polls. Gaylin is compiling information on this grandmother's life in hopes of writing her biography (in retirement).
 
This article is the first in a series which will cover newer HCA Board members, specifically nominated to assist in manifesting The Peter Powell Roberts Museum and other A&C and educational venues in Highlands County.

TDC Marketing Committee Update

by Sherry Carlson

Massey Communications, the company hired to market Highlands County as an art and culture destination, is no longer under contract to do so.  The order came from the County Commissioners after recommendations by the TDC and its Marketing Committee (Fred Leavitt member). 

 

After getting off to a great start (see HCA Today's Fall 2014 article "Attracting Cultural Tourists"), Massey Communications sent a photographer to take photos of area A&C attractions and began monitoring and posting on the TDC website and Facebook page. 

 

Committee members reviewed the photos at the 11/6/2014 meeting. The quality of the photography, as well as Massey's inability to show up at this meeting due to commitments in Orlando disappointed the Committee members. 


They then directed TDC Director Scherlacher to exert pressure on Massey to account for their marketing efforts to date on 11/17/2014. At the latter meeting, Massey Communications' CEO Mr. Stark and PR expert Ms. Vernon-Devlin produced the accounting and future plans, three "tag lines," and sample "tent cards" and "rack cards." Discussions on improving lines of communications and the need for committee previews of work produced brought the meeting to a close.

 

By the January 8, 2014 Marketing Committee meeting, the County Commissioners had already directed Massey to stop all activity. Committee members were informed by Mr. Scherlacher and Commissioner Don Elwell about protocols and procedures legally mandated to hire another company to handle future branding efforts. 

 

 Fred Leavitt collected "tag lines" created by committee members and the interested public. Once voted on, the chosen tag line could be used as an interim marketing tool, one which could be replaced or used again with a new company.

 

The next meeting of the Marketing Committee, (public is invited) is Wed, Feb. 11th, 2015 at 8:30 a.m. at the Engineering Conference Room, 501 S. Commerce Ave. Sebring.
 

Authors Note: I have been impressed with the Marketing Committee's dedication and expertise to promote Highlands County Art and Culture. 

 They and the TDC have been successful in promoting golf, fishing, racing and other sports, recreation, special events, and nature in this area. Recent setbacks aside, they WILL get the job done

 

Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art
 & Cultural Center Progress Report
By Fred Leavitt

It is a life lesson I continue to learn
things worth doing always take longer to accomplish then you think they will. The larger the project the more complicated things get and the greater the obstacles become.
 
Changing the cultural landscape in Avon Park is no exception. At the moment the bidding process of finding the contractor for the interior work on the Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art & Cultural Center has been like swimming through molasses. It has slowed things down, but we are still moving forward.

When considering this progress report what came to mind was the old Volkswagen magazine ad. It simply stated, 0 to 60 - YES!

Artist Workshop
  

HCA Sebring Airport Galleries

Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, seven days 

Artists of the

 Tanglewood Art League

February 7 - 28

Artists Reception 

Feb 7, noon to 2 p.m.

    

The Heartland Cultural Alliance (HCA) is pleased to present  an exhibit of fine art featuring the work of the Tanglewood Art League artists.

 

The show presents a variety of medium and includes the work of Kathie Carr, Marge Carney, Bob Clarke, Virginia Eisen. Norma Evans, Jan Fetters, Laurel Petkus,   joyce Robbins, Steve Waitkus.

 

Book signing of The Accidental Baker by Barbara Miachika


 


 

Made in 
Highlands County 
 HCA Photo Challenge
A Fund-raiser
Artist's Reception and public voting Saturday, March 7, from 12 to 2 PM
 
A juried exhibition of photography showing all things Highlands County. 

Entries are selected by professional panel. The public votes for prize winners. 

You be the judge at $1 per vote. No limits, Proceeds go toward the Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art & Cultural Center.

Want to enter the challenge Click Here

 

 

 

Introducing the 
The Works of Reginald Legros

Artists reception April 4, 2015, from 12 to 2 P.M.   Live music, libations, eatables & raffle

HCA is proud to introduce the work of Reginald Legros to Highlands County. 

Reginald heralds from the Caribbean and has taken the long road to make his home in Lake Placid. 

His work has been exhibited worldwide to include Paris, and the United Nations Building.


 

HCA Today Sponsor
Click to email Ken.
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
Lawrence Harold Levey, 1933 - 2014.
Honoring Jim Fitch
Member Spotlight..
HCA Photo Challange
The Off Circle Gallery
Artistic Frames Graphic Signs
Founders Day
CONGRATULATIONS.
NEW RELEASES
HCA Board, Gaylin Thomas
TDC Marketing Update
Peter Powell Roberts Museum
HCA Airport Gallaries Calendar
Arts License Plate
CALENDAR - EVENTS
MEMBERS
CALENDAR 
OF EVENTS

 


 
SFSC Theater for the Performing Arts

Website


January 31, 2015

7:30 p.m


 
Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr.

This Grammy Award-winning couple recorded hits like "Up, Up & Away," "Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In," "Wedding Bell Blues," "One Less Bell To Answer," and "Stoned Soul Picnic."

February 07, 2015
7:30 p.m.


 
Frankie Avalon, Bobby Rydell, and Fabian, teen idol performers from the late '50s and early '60s, have joined together as Dick Fox'sThe Golden Boys.

February 20, 2015
7:30 p.m.


Rhythm of the Dance.
 Returning to our stage, this extravaganza of Irish dance and music features some of the Emerald Isle's finest performers, including 18 dancers, five musicians, and three tenors.

March 05, 2015
7:30 p.m.

 The Jive Aces are internationally renowned for their superior musicianship, spectacular stage show, and their energetic renditions of fresh arrangements of swing, jive, and R&B classics.

March 28, 2015
7:30 p.m.


 
The Broadway Boys is a collection of six of the hottest male voices who have appeared on Broadway stages,
 
 For a complete calendar visit Website 

  

  Museum of Florida Art & Culture
Nov. 14 - March 5, 

Science Bugs
Dustin Angell, Dr. Mark Deyrup, and Tim Lethbridge
Science Bugs celebrates local ecology by exploring insects using three kinds of representation. Lethbridge's photography captures insects in nature giving a glimpse into their lives and ecological roles. Angell's studio-like photographic portraits offer an intimate view of specimens from scientific collections. Deyrup's scientific drawings of insects reveal the defining traits of species, and show how entomologists need standardized and highly detailed depictions of insects. SFSC Lower Lobby Gallery.

Through - January 22
Aquiferious: Margaret Ross Tolbert
Aquiferious is a selection of Tolbert's paintings of the Springs of North Florida, whose presence provides a sense of ideal destination and the exotic here-and-now. Painterly and abstract, they simultaneously reflect "a reality of place."

January 28 - March 5

Flight: Aloft in the Everglades
Flight is an exhibition of new work created by artists who participated in the AIRIE residency at Everglades National Park. Their works explore many facets of our cultural experience of nature in this World Heritage Site. In Flight, the Everglades are considered through aerial views of suburban encroachment, birds taking wing, the ethereal nature of wind, and even the stark contrast of nuclear missiles housed deep in the wilderness. Co-sponsor: Don Appelquist

March 11 - May 1
At Home - Seminole Reservations
The first Seminole reservation was established in 1892. Since then, the reservation system has grown along with the Tribe, and today incorporates six separate reservations in Florida. In this banner exhibition, the history of each reservation is explored and illustrated by historical and modern photographs. This exhibition is on loan from the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Seminole Indian Museum.

March 11 - May 1
Contemporary Native American Art: Elgin Jumper and Jessica Osceola
Jumper's bold, colorful paintings depict the Seminole people, their
community, and surrounding landscape. Exploring identity and culture, Osceola's work blends her traditional culture with contemporary ideas.
Co-sponsors: SFSC Foundation, Inc.; Charles and Anne Reynolds; Heartland Cultural Alliance


Always-Patsy-Cline January, 21, 23, 24, 28, 30, 31 at 7:30 PM
24, 25, 31 at 2:30 PM, February 1 at 2:30 PM
The show is based on a true story about Cline's friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in 1961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. Songs include "Crazy", "I Fall to Pieces", "Sweet Dreams" and "Walking After Midnight"...27 songs in all. Written by Ted Swindley. Produced by special arrangement with Ted Swindley Productions.
Duos-Duets, February 13 & 14, 2015
Sonny & Cher and Ralph & Alice are only two of the couples who will be represented during DUOS & DUETS. A combination of songs and skits, laugh along with us as we celebrate love of all styles. Adult Tickets include a glass of sparkling wine to kick off your festivities. This is an original work conceived and directed by Patty Young. Open seating. Doors open an hour before show time.
Men of Mah Jongg, February 20, 21 at 7:30 PM, 22 at 2:30 PM
A sweet & crusty drama about male aging and friendship that takes a look at what happens when men face loss and deteriorating health, and the friendships that redeem them. Written by Richard Atkins. Produced by special arrangement with The Sandia Group.
Driving-Miss-Daisy, March 25, 27, 28 at 7:30 PM, 28, 29 at 2:30 PM
April, 1, 3, 4 at 7:30 PM, 4, 5 at 2:30 PM
Meet the indomitable Miss Daisy in this iconic tale of the transformative power of friendship that will warm your heart. Written by Alfred Uhry. Produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Group. Recommended for ages 10 and older. Some adult language and a description of violence.


Caladium Arts & Crafts Co-op

 January new classes begin throughout the month Please check class schedules
 "1st Friday " Events in Lake Placid at the Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative, The Lake Placid Art League and Toby the Clown Museum and School, from 4-8 p.m. Fun for all.
February on going classes throughout the month Please check class schedules
February 6 ,2015
1st Friday " Events in Lake Placid at the Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative, The Lake Placid Art League and Toby the Clown Museum and School, from 4-8 p.m. Fun for all.
February 7 and 8. Country Fair in Lake Placid. Visit the Caladium Arts and Crafts Food Booth for Taco in a Bag and Taco Salad
February 13, 2015 Donna Dewberry workshop... registration at the Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative
March on going classes throughout the month Please check class schedule
March 6, 2015 "1st Friday " Events in Lake Placid at the Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative, The Lake Placid Art League and Toby the Clown Museum and School, from 4-8 p.m. Fun for all.

Lake Placid Art League
On Saturday January 31st, The Lake Placid Art League has its 28th Annual Art and Fine Craft Show, at the Bert J Harris Agri-Civic Center, US 27 S. at George Boulevard, in Sebring from 9 AM to 4 PM. Admission to the show is free and door prizes, donated by over fifty artists, are awarded throughout the day. Refreshments are available.

Many other state and nationally known artists are represented: including watercolor artists Dan Burleigh Phillips and Don Nedobeck, wildlife artist Christine Yarbour, 

 

 Every third Thursday starting  Jan 15, 2015 from 6-9pm. - Creative Spirts - A Wine and Painting Experience $30 for members $35 for non members, all materials and refreshments included. At the Lake Placid Art League, 127 Dal Hall Bvd, Lake Placid, FL. Instructor, Christine Yarbour will guide you through the featured painting. Call 699-2792 for details.

 

Every Monday, Lake Placid Art League holds Open Painting Studio from 1-4pm. Call 465-0611 for details.

Every Tuesday, from 9-12am, Lake Placid Art League holds class in Oil and Acrylic Painting, by Instructor Bill Snyder. Cost is $15, please call 465-0611 for information.
Every Tuesday the Lake Placid Art League has open studio woodcarving from 12-3pm. with instructor Bill Snyder. Call 465-0611
Every Thursday the Lake Placid Woodcarvers meet at the Lake Placid Art League for class taught by Bill Snyder. The cost varies per project, contact 465-0611 for more information

 

Off Circle Gallery

 The new multi-artist Cooperative invites you join them in their Grand Opening on Wed. Feb 4, 10 am to 6 pm. 

 

TAG at SFSC

  Adult Student Art Show at TAG Studio, which will be held :

Sunday March 22, 2015
Noon till 4:00 pm
At TAG Studio, inside Hotel Jacaranda, Avon Park
Ongoing Classes
TAG offers informal art classes throughout the year. All classes are geared toward artists of every skill level. For more information, call 863-784-7346 or e-mail 
Acrylic Painting - Students paint subjects of their choice or work on a project with the instructor. Each participant completes two paintings during the session.
Acrylics Made Easy - This course is designed to teach students of all skill levels (beginners, intermediate and advanced) an easy way to produce beautiful art with Acrylic Paints. Each student will complete two paintings along with the instructor or may paint subjects of their own choice while learning the essential skills of Acrylic Painting.
Watercolor Painting - Students paint subjects of their choice or participate in a weekly exercise demonstrated by the instructor. Classes discuss the application of color theory as well as the principles and elements of design. A gentle critique is held at the end of each session.
Creations in Clay- This class is held in the Ceramic Studio at the SFSC Art Department. Students use clay and pottery tools to learn various techniques for this sculptural medium. Glazes are applied and projects are kiln fired.
Oil Painting - This class covers the importance of composition and design, oil paints and their unique properties, principles for mixing colors, and techniques for applying paint. The students will be painting their own compositions, except for beginners who will have a composition to trace.

Abstract/Contemporary Acrylics-This class uses "Out of the Box Techniques," to create beautiful art. This class will concentrate more on feeling, sound and balance of a composition as opposed to principles. Intuitive creativity is encouraged with music and movement. A fun and relaxing class that will awaken your creativity.  For more information, call 863-784-7346 or e-mail TAG
 

Highway Park Rising Black Tie Gala

The Highway Park Neighborhood Council will hold its 4th Annual Highway Park Rising Gala from 6:00 PM - Midnight on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at Sun n Lakes Golf & Country Club in Sebring, . 
This year the speaker is Dr. Johnny Gaffney, Jacksonville's 7th District Councilman. Featured entertainment is The Funk Monsters Band
There will be fine dining, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, live entertainment, surprises and fun. 
All proceeds will help renew Highway Park with a portion for The Star Center (After School free tutoring). 
Tickets are now on sale for $50 per person. Call 863/840-2995 or visit www.hpng.org 


Orange Blossom Tours
February 3
Avon Park as you may not know it. You may be surprised that we are offering a tour of Avon Park. Sure, you can go the short distance to Avon Park on your own, but there are a lot of interesting places to see that are best experienced on a group tour or that aren't accessible except to a group.
For example, you may have been to performances at South Florida State College, but have you ever gone on a backstage tour?
Or have you ever taken a guided tour of SFSC'S Museum of Fine Arts and Culture? It houses one of the best collections of contemporary Florida regional art, including the largest collection of works by the well-known African-American artists, The Highwaymen.


The Heart of Highland Show Chorus (Sweet Adelines International) invites you to our (Scholarship Fundraiser) show MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC! at South Florida State College, Saturday, February 28th, 2015. 
Guest Quartets are:" Attitude" (Region 9's #1 quartet) and "The Speed of Sound" (#2 Worldwide). Doors open 1:45 PM, show begins 2:30 PM....tickets are $15.00 each.
For advance tickets call:, Avon Park: (954) 240-9999, Lake Placid: (863) 699-0743, Polk County: (863) 638-1598, Sebring: (863) 414-4914

Cindy Rose Exhibit

"River of Grass',
 The Everglades are a natural region of adverse ecosystem that begins with the Kissimmee River flowing into the vast, shallow Lake Okeechobee and from there flows on across a limestone shelf into Florida Bay.

The term 'River of Grass' was popularized by Marjory Stoneman Douglas and describes part of a very complex, interdependent ecosystem which includes cypress swamps, mangrove forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, pine rock land as well as the wildlife and marine environment.

Rose's art reflects her passion for this ecosystem in nature and the world that surrounds her and has been exhibited in many galleries and art expos throughout Florida. Cindy 'shoots with her heart' to capture and help preserve this fragile ecosystem of nature. The art,  as lifelike as possible, brings the most intricate of details up close and personal.

This exhibit includes photographs taken by her late husband, Rick Rose, who shared his intense zeal for the subjects he photographed in his final artistic endeavors. Cindy is alive with his influence and passion inspiring her own artistic passions.

The 'River of Grass' expo will be on display January 1 - 31, 2015. at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Everglades National Park. Please check out Cindy Rose Nature Photography on Facebook.

Pam & Karisa Jesseman

Mother & Daughter show through March at SFSC Performing Arts building, second floor.

Writing Classes
By Millie Richmond

South Florida State College (Avon Park Campus)
is offering TWO writing classes for interested writers
18 years of age or older:
Fiction Writing For Beginners
Mondays, January 12 - March 2, 2015 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Learn how to hook a reader, develop characters, create scenes, tighten plot and more.
Fiction Writing For Experienced Writers
Tuesday, January 27 - , March 24
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Build on and strengthen your writing skills as we also focus on critiquing skills.
Each 8-week class is $65.00
For more information contact
Lauren Redick, Community Education
863-784-7388

Spread the word

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