Caladium Festival 2021
Lake Placid, Florida and the surrounding Sebring area are rich with natural beauty, excellent growing conditions, and talented people. While caladiums are the heart of our popular Caladium Festival, the event also highlights our creative community as well as our local heritage and culture. We’re excited to celebrate our 30th anniversary with you in 2021, so please make plans to join us!
Lake Placid, Florida and the surrounding Sebring area are rich with natural beauty, excellent growing conditions, and talented people. While caladiums are the heart of our popular Caladium Festival, the event also highlights our creative community as well as our local heritage and culture. We’re excited to celebrate our 30th anniversary with you in 2021, so please make plans to join us!
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CALADIUM<br />
schedule of evenTs<br />
Page 3<br />
Things To do<br />
Details Page 3<br />
Take a leisurely<br />
Bus Tour<br />
Details Page 4<br />
caladium fesTival<br />
car & Bike show<br />
Details Page 6<br />
See pageS 20-21 for the official Vendor Map<br />
This Section Sponsored by<br />
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Banking Forward.<br />
120 US Highway 27 S | Lake Placid, FL<br />
863.465.2700 | SouthStateBank.com<br />
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A Special Publication of
2 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
The Greater<br />
Lake Placid<br />
Chamber of Commerce<br />
“Building a Future that reflects our past”<br />
PRESIDENT<br />
Vicki Spires<br />
MidFlorida Credit Union<br />
1 ST VICE PRESIDENT<br />
Donald Clarke<br />
Clarke Pest Control<br />
Clarke Self Storage<br />
2 ND VICE PRESIDENT<br />
Bill Brantley<br />
Brantley Construction<br />
SECRETARY<br />
Kim Miller<br />
Clarke Pest Control<br />
TREASURER<br />
Curtis Slade III<br />
First Insurance<br />
of Lake Placid<br />
PAST PRESIDENT<br />
Jessica Hart-Howard<br />
Heartland<br />
Property Doctors<br />
DIRECTORS<br />
Tiffany Bender<br />
AdventHealth<br />
Mary Birge<br />
SouthState Bank<br />
Jean Deuth<br />
Lake & Land Realty<br />
of Highlands Inc.<br />
John Varady<br />
The School Board of<br />
Highlands County<br />
Gilbert Randall<br />
Beef O’Brady’s<br />
The Barn at Paso Fino<br />
Katie Wilson<br />
Remax Realty Plus<br />
Jennifer M Bush<br />
Executive Director<br />
July, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Dear Residents and Visitors,<br />
We are delighted to invite you to the <strong>Caladium</strong> Capital of the World – Lake Placid,<br />
Florida – for our annual festival celebrating these lovely plants. First time visitors to<br />
our area are always excited to discover an abundance of heritage and culture in such<br />
a small community. Frequent visitors return to enjoy our friendly residents and our<br />
amazing quality of life.<br />
This will be the 30 th year of the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> and this feature from the<br />
Highlands New-Sun if filled with detailed information about the festival. There<br />
are three days of free entertainment for your enjoyment. Also inside you’ll discover<br />
more about Saturday’s <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 24 th Annual Car & Bike Show.<br />
Please plan to visit the offce of the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce<br />
located just one block from the festival – where you can view a free video about<br />
the history of caladiums. The Mural Room is also located here; you may view the<br />
original artwork for all the murals. Our offce is the clearing house for all events and<br />
attractions in our area. You’ll quickly see why Lake Placid is so popular.<br />
There will be many opportunities to purchase your own caladium bulbs and plants<br />
at the festival. To see where the bulbs originate, meet the growers, and learn how<br />
they will look at your home or place of business, you will want to consider an<br />
air conditioned bus tour through our town and to the beautiful fields. Buses will<br />
also take you to view a neighborhood filled with caladiums, as well as seeing the<br />
plantings throughout our town. There will be a caladium grower on the bus to<br />
answer all of your questions. We encourage you to make your bus reservations early<br />
as they sell out quickly.<br />
The <strong>2021</strong> <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> will be waiting for you! Visit for the entire weekend<br />
and enjoy Lake Placid. Additional information and bus tour reservations can<br />
be obtained at www.<strong>Caladium</strong><strong>Festival</strong>.org or call the Lake Placid Chamber of<br />
Commerce at 863-465-4331<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Jennifer M. Bush<br />
Executive Director<br />
Visit Lake Placid … Enjoy the Experience<br />
Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce<br />
18 N. Oak Ave. Lake Placid, Florida 33852-9546<br />
Phone 863-465-4331<br />
Web Site: www.visitlakeplacidflorida.com • Email: information@lpfla.com
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 3<br />
Lake Placid was voted “America’s Most Interesting<br />
Town” in an online contest sponsored by Reader’s<br />
Digest magazine in December 2012. Known as the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> Capital of the World, Lake Placid has 27<br />
lakes, a multitude of beautiful murals that depict the<br />
town’s history, Toby’s Clown School and the historical<br />
Happiness Tower, which rises 270 feet above ground<br />
(the tower is no longer open to the public).<br />
The following are some of the things locals and<br />
visitors alike can do in and around Lake Placid during<br />
this year’s <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong>:<br />
Murals, walking tour<br />
Forty-seven murals grace buildings throughout<br />
Lake Placid. Trash containers are also decorated. Visit<br />
the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce at 18 N. Oak<br />
Ave. to see The Mural Gallery, which houses original<br />
renderings. A short video details the murals’ history.<br />
There is no charge. Call 863-414-2394.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> tiles<br />
This permanent installation of 25 tiles came about<br />
to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the festival<br />
and to honor the town of Lake Placid as the <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
Capital of the World. Each tile depicts different<br />
varieties of caladiums representative of local growers.<br />
The tiles are affixed to buildings in downtown Lake<br />
Placid, with six additional tiles on display on the front<br />
of the chamber building on Oak Avenue. This is a<br />
free, self-guided tour. For more information, visit the<br />
chamber office at 18 N. Oak Ave.<br />
Arts and crafts booths<br />
Close to 100 food vendors and arts and crafts<br />
booths will be present. The booths will be set up<br />
near Stuart Park, along Pine Avenue and Interlake<br />
Boulevard. Several food vendors, along with a beer<br />
garden and a wine tent, will be located in Stuart Park.<br />
Plants for sale<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> plants will be for sale throughout the<br />
festival. Bates Sons & Daughters will sell the caladium<br />
plants. The booths will be located next to the entertainment<br />
pavilion.<br />
Wine tastings<br />
Secret Garden Winery will offer tastings of wine all<br />
three days of the event. The Wine Showcase tent will<br />
Things to do<br />
be located near the entertainment pavilion in Stuart<br />
Park.<br />
Beer garden<br />
The <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> will have a designated area<br />
for beer sales. This restricted area is sponsored by<br />
the Lake Placid Jaycees and will be located at a booth<br />
in Stuart Park. Wristbands will be provided with the<br />
presentation of valid identification. A variety of beers<br />
will be available.<br />
Art competition<br />
The Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce sponsors<br />
the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> Art Competition. All artwork<br />
will be on display at the MidFlorida Credit Union<br />
Community Room, located at 6 N. Main Ave.,<br />
throughout the festival.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> floral competition<br />
The Lake Placid Garden Club sponsors the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> Floral Competition, which features caladium<br />
floral arrangements each day of the festival.<br />
Entries must have all cut fresh flower material with no<br />
less than 80 percent caladiums in the design. There<br />
will be ribbons and prizes awarded for first, second<br />
and third places, professional and people’s choice<br />
awards. For more information, call 863-835-2419.<br />
Bus tours<br />
Bus tours around Lake Placid to see caladium fields<br />
and plantings and meet the growers are available.<br />
Advanced registration available until noon July 23<br />
for $12 per person. Day of the event price is $15 per<br />
person.<br />
The tour schedule is:<br />
Friday, July 23: 9:30 a.m.; 10:15 a.m.; 10:30 a.m.<br />
(handicapped accessible); 11 a.m.; 11:30 a.m. (handicapped<br />
accessible); noon; 1 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.; 2:15 p.m.<br />
Saturday, July 24: 9:30 a.m.; 9:45 a.m.; 10:30 a.m.;<br />
10:45 a.m.; 11 a.m.; 11:15 a.m. (handicapped accessible);<br />
11:30 a.m.; 11:45 a.m.; 12:15 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.;<br />
2:15 p.m.<br />
Sunday, July 25: 10:30 a.m. (handicapped accessible);<br />
11 a.m.; 11:30 a.m.; 12:30 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.<br />
Tours will leave from the Lake Placid Women’s<br />
Club, 10 N. Main Ave. Tours are filled on a first-come,<br />
first-served basis. Handicapped accessible buses are<br />
Schedule of Events<br />
FRIDAY, JULY 23<br />
10 a.m. National<br />
Anthem sung by Marti<br />
Capodiferro<br />
10:05 a.m. NoteWorthy<br />
10:20 a.m. Cool Breeze<br />
11:30 a.m. New<br />
Floridians<br />
12:15 p.m. Cool Breeze<br />
1 p.m. Sweet Fleet<br />
2 p.m. David Mains<br />
4 p.m. <strong>Festival</strong> closes<br />
SATURDAY, JULY 24<br />
9:45 a.m. National<br />
Anthem sung by Marti<br />
Capodiferro<br />
9:45 a.m. Mountain<br />
Dew Cloggers<br />
10 a.m. New Floridians<br />
10:30 a.m. Mountain<br />
Dew Cloggers<br />
10:45 a.m. New<br />
Floridians<br />
11 a.m. Mountain Dew<br />
Cloggers<br />
11:15 a.m. Mad<br />
Stringers<br />
12:15 p.m. Highland<br />
Celts<br />
1 p.m. Jersey Boys<br />
4 p.m. <strong>Festival</strong> closes<br />
SUNDAY, JULY 25<br />
11 a.m. National<br />
Anthem sung by Marti<br />
Capodiferro<br />
11:05 a.m. New<br />
Floridians<br />
noon Celebration<br />
Singers<br />
1 p.m. Jersey Boys<br />
2 p.m. David Mains<br />
3 p.m. <strong>Festival</strong> closes<br />
available. Deadline for advanced reservations at $12<br />
per person is July 23 at noon. For more information,<br />
call 863-465-4331 or visit lpfla.com.<br />
Car and bike show<br />
The <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> Car and Bike Show is<br />
Saturday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at DeVane<br />
Park. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and closes at noon.<br />
The entry fee is $15 through noon Thursday, and $20<br />
the day of the event. Dash plaques and goody bags<br />
will be given to the first 150 registered vehicles. The<br />
awards presentation is at 2 p.m. The top three vehicles<br />
in each class will receive awards. There will be live<br />
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4 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
30th annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> Bus Tours<br />
Bus Tours will run on July 23, 24 and 25.<br />
Take a bus tour around Lake Placid to see beautiful plantings, the caladium fields and meet the growers that you will see at the festival. Advanced registration<br />
is preferred. Advance reservations for bus tours are $12 per tour until 7/25 at noon. Days of the event — $15 per tour. Tours are approximately<br />
one hour and leave from the Lake Placid Woman’s Club (10 North Main Avenue). They are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so reserve your spot<br />
early. Handicapped accessible buses are available.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> Bus Tours Friday<br />
Jul 23<br />
9:30 a.m.; 10:15 a.m.; 10:30 a.m. Handicap accessible;<br />
11 a.m.; 11:30 a.m. Handicap accessible;<br />
noon; 1 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.; 2:15 p.m.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> Bus Tours Saturday<br />
Jul 24<br />
9:30 a.m.; 9:45 a.m.; 10:30 a.m.; 10:45 a.m.;<br />
11 a.m.; 11:15 a.m. Handicap accessible;<br />
11:30 a.m.; 11:45 a.m.; 12:15 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.;<br />
2:15 p.m.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> Bus Tours Sunday<br />
Jul 25<br />
10:30 a.m. Handicap accessible; 11 a.m.;<br />
11:30 a.m.; 12:30 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.<br />
<strong>Festival</strong> goers paid to take a bus tour of the caladium fields and see farm equipment as part of the 17th annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> in downtown Lake Placid.<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
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[ At The Lake Placid Library \<br />
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Hours: Tuesday thru Sat. • 11am - 3pm<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 5<br />
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6 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
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FILE PHOTO<br />
2006, HIGHLANDS TODAY FILE PHOTO Spectators walk through the line up of classic cars during the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> in Lake Placid.<br />
Calling all cars! to the<br />
annual Car & Bike Show<br />
By JERRY MEISENHEIMER<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
LAKE PLACID — After a year off due<br />
to COVID-19, the Car & Bike Show is<br />
back on again during the Lake Placid<br />
Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong>, July 24. So, if<br />
you have a fancy car, hot rod, or classic<br />
car or truck, you need to enter it in the<br />
show. Motorcycles are also welcome. In<br />
previous years, there were nearly 200<br />
entries.<br />
The Car & Bike Show is one of the<br />
biggest in the state and offers a ton<br />
of trophies and door prizes. There are<br />
actually 20 categories. So, your special<br />
SHOW | 34<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 7<br />
Happiness Farms, caladium pioneer<br />
By AMANDA FERNANDEZ<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
LAKE PLACID — Family owned and<br />
operated for over 50 years, Happiness<br />
Farms is one of the original <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
pioneer farmers. The caladium farm<br />
Serves both wholesale and retail<br />
markets, as well as homeowners. The<br />
company takes dignity in showcasing<br />
exceptional customer service. They<br />
grow 200 acres of caladium bulbs<br />
which get counted and packed by<br />
hand, ensuring the highest quality<br />
possible.<br />
Paul Phypers Sr., who had experience<br />
in potato farming, was<br />
successfully growing flowers in Lake<br />
Placid. This was due to the flourishing<br />
flower markets all along the East<br />
Coast in the 1940s. He purchased a<br />
40-acre banana farm from a woman<br />
named Mrs. Saunders on what had<br />
been part of Lake Clay. The mucky,<br />
lake-bottom land was great to grow<br />
Chrysanthemums, Easter Lilies and<br />
Gerbera Daises.<br />
Meanwhile, Max Hoffman (a sod<br />
farmer) was experimenting with<br />
growing caladiums in Lake Placid,<br />
despite it not seeming profitable and<br />
many not knowing what a caladium<br />
was. Two other families in the area, the<br />
Hendry and Bates family, also started<br />
growing caladiums in the 1950s. As<br />
time went on and caladiums gained<br />
popularity, the cut flower market<br />
that Paul Phypers Sr. found success<br />
in, started to become flooded with<br />
suppliers. It was in 1964 that Phypers<br />
submersed himself into the caladium<br />
industry and purchased half of the sod<br />
farm that Max Hoffman owned.<br />
Soon, Happiness Farms became<br />
the largest caladium grower in Lake<br />
Placid. Paul Phypers, Sr. left his legacy<br />
to his sons, Danny and Paul Phypers<br />
Jr., along with their wives, their children<br />
and their grandchildren.<br />
Over the years, Happiness Farms<br />
has integrated itself into the community<br />
that was deemed “<strong>Caladium</strong><br />
Capital of The World.” A woman by the<br />
name of Doris Gentry came up with<br />
FARM | 35<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Darlene Phypers and Danielle Daum, along with office administration<br />
Briana Haake and Lori Roulette with the Happiness Farms sign.<br />
Happiness Farms caladium field. They grow 200 acres of caladium bulbs which get counted and packed by hand.<br />
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8 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Florida Boys continues a family legacy<br />
By AMANDA FERNANDEZ<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
LAKE PLACID — In 1948, LL and Vivian “Boots”<br />
Holmes started Lake Huntley Bulb Farm with a half<br />
bushel of seed. As time passed, they would move<br />
their operation from the shores of Lake Huntley to<br />
Lake Istokpoga, where they expanded up to 125 acres<br />
of caladiums and operated until 1966. Several years<br />
later, their son Bill Holmes started his own bulb operation<br />
and took on once more the name Lake Huntley<br />
Bulb Farm, while his son Jason Holmes would follow<br />
in his footsteps under the operation name Heartland<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s.<br />
Jason’s wife, Sandi Holmes, who left her physical<br />
therapist job in 2018 to work full time at Florida Boys,<br />
spoke on how they came to be the company they are<br />
today. “In 2000, we started our own business called<br />
Heartland <strong>Caladium</strong>s. And in 2015, we initiated<br />
Florida Boys <strong>Caladium</strong>s to get our children more involved<br />
in the business.” They have three boys Walker,<br />
Lincoln and Weston are the future fourth generation<br />
farmers.<br />
Sandi proudly explains that the oldest, Walker (17),<br />
has gotten more involved with the whole aspect of<br />
the business. “He actually helps with harvesting at<br />
times. He works daily, helping to fulfill orders and<br />
packing and counting up the bulbs.” She also happily<br />
mentions that her two other sons help with smaller<br />
tasks. The small family company manages 37 acres,<br />
and besides the helping hands of their three boys,<br />
have five main employees for the season. Jason<br />
Holmes though, is the Renaissance man and heart<br />
of Florida Boys. “He pretty much does everything,”<br />
said Sandi. “He is the one who plants the bulbs, he<br />
harvests the bulbs. He runs majority of the packing<br />
house, inventory, the fertilizing and the plowing.”<br />
For the first 15 years, they operated in wholesale.<br />
But as time went on and their children became more<br />
involved, they changed route and went retail. Florida<br />
Boys in the past year had 42 different varieties to<br />
BOYS | 35<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Future fourth generation farmers Walker, Lincoln and Weston.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Workers at Florida Boys <strong>Caladium</strong>s take down a stack of bulbs.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Jason Holmes with family: Sandi, Lincoln and Weston, and their<br />
family dog.<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 9<br />
Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s is just getting started<br />
By AMANDA FERNANDEZ<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
AVON PARK — Formed in 2000,<br />
Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s aims to bring caladiums<br />
to their full potential. Their parent<br />
company, Abbot-Ipco of Dallas, Texas, a<br />
large bulb broker, has been an international<br />
source of caladium bulbs and<br />
more since the early 1970s. Feeling as if<br />
the caladium market was being under<br />
supplied, Abbot-Ipco decided to get<br />
into the bulb production business with<br />
the help of Dr. Robert (Bob) Hartman to<br />
guide them to success.<br />
Dr. Hartman is the President and<br />
CEO of Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s and a<br />
very accomplished horticulturist.<br />
He graduated from the University of<br />
Florida with degrees in Plant Pathology<br />
and Entomology, and a minor in<br />
Ornamental Horticulture. He’s been<br />
involved with multiple horticultural<br />
businesses, including starting his own<br />
plant cloning company which he sold to<br />
Ciba Geigy in 1984. “I was working for<br />
a plant cloning company and thought<br />
it might be interesting to go into the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> business,” said Dr. Hartman.<br />
“So we joined forces. We’d known each<br />
other for 30 years.”<br />
From then on, Classics has only<br />
evolved. And with the help of his team,<br />
manages 850 acres of production. This<br />
production puts Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s<br />
as the biggest producers of <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
bulbs in the world.<br />
The company first started with about<br />
30 varieties and now sells roughly 100<br />
varieties, some the traditional kind,<br />
but they also specialize in “not your<br />
granny’s caladiums.” With Dr. Hartman<br />
not only being one of three people that<br />
breed caladiums, but also being a Cell<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Dr. Robert (Bob) Hartman in the caladium fields with raised bed.<br />
culturist and having a degree in Plant<br />
Pathology, he and his team have created<br />
and renovated what caladiums can look<br />
like as well as their performance.<br />
Clay Wallace, head grower of the<br />
finished caladium program said, “As<br />
you clean the caladiums up, different<br />
traits are expressed. You can see inside<br />
the leaf better it’s cleaner, brighter. So,<br />
you can see different genes.” Wallace<br />
explained it as a couple who both have<br />
dark hair birthing a child who is a<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Close-up of caladiums at Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s in Avon Park.<br />
redhead. “Instead of saying, ‘Oh crap,<br />
you know what colors the milkman?’<br />
you say, ‘I like that’ and so you pick out<br />
the traits that are expressed and you<br />
continue to express them.”<br />
By being able to see those characteristics<br />
and being able to do the<br />
work in-house, Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s can<br />
customize and experiment, creating<br />
a whole new look. One of Wallace’s<br />
favorites is a caladium that has a white<br />
leaf that measures 16 by 18 inches,<br />
with dark prominent veins and a black<br />
stem. In fact, they are close to having<br />
one hundred patented caladiums. Dr.<br />
Hartman mentions a variety they have<br />
patented called Real Red River with a<br />
red color and very curly leaves, more<br />
curly than usual. “And we got some negative<br />
feedback,” said Wallace. “I mean<br />
it was just too curly and so we’ve been<br />
looking for still curly, just flatter. And so,<br />
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10 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Bates Sons & Daughters continue the family tradition<br />
By AMANDA FERNANDEZ<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
LAKE PLACID — Founded by Emmett<br />
Bates after returning from World War II,<br />
Bates Sons (now known as Bates Sons<br />
and Daughters) is one of the first, and<br />
long-lasting caladium growers, in Lake<br />
Placid. What started off as a five-gallon<br />
bucket of mixed bulbs has blossomed<br />
to one hundred acres of brightly colored<br />
and uniquely named caladiums. Not<br />
only are Bates Sons and Daughters rich<br />
in land but in community history as<br />
well.<br />
The family company is one of the two<br />
families responsible for giving a hand<br />
in starting the now famous <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>. The idea for the celebration<br />
was first presented by Doris Gentry. In<br />
1990, Dot Bates and Carolyn Phypers of<br />
Happiness Farms, along with Ann Bond<br />
and Audrey Vickers with the Convention<br />
and Visitors Bureau, hosted the first<br />
festival at Happiness Farms. Dot and<br />
Carolyn went above and beyond to<br />
make sure the festival was a success.<br />
For instance, prior to the event, Dot<br />
and Carolyn drove around town in a<br />
pick-up truck and went door to door offering<br />
free bulbs to anyone who would<br />
plant them for bus tours. The tours<br />
would not only pass by the caladium<br />
fields but also drove past the beautifully<br />
caladium decorated homes to showcase<br />
how people could incorporate them<br />
into the landscape.<br />
The first festival was mainly locals but<br />
has since boomed into the main attraction<br />
every summer for many all over<br />
the country. Leading up to the festival,<br />
the entire town (homes and businesses<br />
alike) adorn their properties in caladiums<br />
all the way down to Devane Park,<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
where the festival is now held. Though<br />
the festival was cancelled last year due<br />
to COVID-19, Bates Sons and Daughters<br />
are very excited to take part again in the<br />
festivities.<br />
“We’re looking forward to it, it’s a<br />
good time,” said Terri Bates, owner of<br />
Bates Sons and Daughters. “I’m glad<br />
there’s four growers going to be there.<br />
I think that’s better for the attendees,<br />
I think it will show different stuff and<br />
they can go around and take their time<br />
instead.”<br />
This year, Terri said they will be<br />
offering six-inch caladium pots and<br />
will have a new variety this year called<br />
Dots Delight, named after her mother.<br />
They also have the popular Frog in a<br />
Blender, “Because everyone wants Frog<br />
in a Blender,” said Bates. “And we’ll have<br />
quite a few of our unusual ones there,<br />
that they can’t find anywhere else.”<br />
From selling hanging baskets and<br />
bulbs last year in their barn to now<br />
getting ready for a great festival once<br />
more. Bates Sons and Daughters never<br />
stops serving their customers.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
From left: Terri Bates, Don Bates, their granddaughter Mary Grace and Sheri Bates.<br />
Bates Sons & Daughters workers in the field.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 11<br />
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12 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
The Celebration Singers<br />
Cool Breeze Band<br />
The group<br />
started in 1975<br />
and have had<br />
many changes<br />
through the<br />
years. The<br />
members are<br />
Emma Polly<br />
(Vero Beach),<br />
Patty Siggins<br />
(West Palm<br />
Beach) and<br />
Carol Peaden<br />
(Pahokee). They<br />
have sung for<br />
many years<br />
at the South<br />
Florida Fair<br />
in West Palm<br />
Beach, Black<br />
Gold <strong>Festival</strong> in<br />
Belle Glade and<br />
the Strawberry<br />
<strong>Festival</strong> in Plant<br />
City, plus other<br />
events. They are<br />
glad to come to<br />
the <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>. They<br />
love singing for<br />
the Lord.<br />
Freddie Martinez was born in Brooklyn, New York and moved to Lake Placid in<br />
1977. He is a percussionist and a vocalist. His passion was to play different styles<br />
of music such as reggae, island music, rock and country. With that in mind, Cool<br />
Breeze was created.<br />
Al Arroyo is a conga drum player from Manhattan, New York who moved to Lake<br />
Placid 10 years ago. When Freddie heard him playing at a local bar, he knew he<br />
was the one for Cool Breeze.<br />
Tony Watson, the guitarist, is a native of Georgia. He lived in Miami and moved<br />
to the Bahamas where he learned the magic of island music and reggae.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
The Celebration Singers will perform at noon on Sunday, July 25.<br />
Cool Breeze will perform at 10:20 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. on Friday, July 23.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Lake Placid<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 13<br />
Highland Celts Band<br />
Mad Stringers<br />
Highland Celts Band is Highlands County’s only band solely dedicated to<br />
traditional Celtic music originating in Ireland and Scotland. Charter member<br />
Chris Noel plays the Irish tin, or penny whistle, and flute. Matt Coltharp is featured<br />
playing fiddle and guitar. Bill Williams adds depth and flare on guitar. Michael<br />
Noel backs them up with the Irish drum, the bodhran. All of them have a turn<br />
at singing a variety of tunes including ballads, sea shanties and pub songs. They<br />
encourage crowd participation and often provide chorus lyrics for sing-alongs.<br />
As a special treat, the Irish step dance class from Attitudes Dance Studio will join<br />
them dancing to popular jigs and reels. Class instructor Alyxandra Maxwell might<br />
bring some special dancers from south Florida to join in the show.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
The Highland Celts will be performing on Friday, July 23 from 3-5 p.m. in The Yard at the Journal<br />
Plaza and Saturday, July 24 at 12:15 p.m. at the festival pavilion.<br />
The Mad<br />
Stringers are a<br />
local favorite<br />
three-piece band<br />
that came out<br />
of Wauchula,<br />
Florida. Alexis<br />
Garay is the<br />
singer and<br />
guitarist, Chris<br />
Garay (her father)<br />
is the bassist and<br />
Jason Harabarugh<br />
is on drums. They<br />
all combine a<br />
lifelong passion<br />
for music that<br />
crosses genres.<br />
At any given<br />
show, tunes from<br />
folk to rock to<br />
instrumentals<br />
are jamming.<br />
Inspired from<br />
her time living<br />
on a sailboat in<br />
the Keys, Alexis<br />
brings a serene,<br />
soulful sound<br />
to her melodies,<br />
while Chris and<br />
Jason provide the<br />
rhythm. Going<br />
on close to three<br />
years strong<br />
making their way<br />
across counties<br />
captivating hearts<br />
and ears.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Mad Stringers will perform at 11:15 a.m. on Saturday, July 24.<br />
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14 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
The Jersey Boys<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Originally from<br />
New Jersey, Lester<br />
started out on the<br />
“Talent Show”<br />
circuit in New Jersey<br />
and Pennsylvania.<br />
He appeared on<br />
Season 4 of America’s<br />
Got Talent and<br />
performs a Neil<br />
Diamond tribute<br />
show for JBE Live.<br />
He has been singing<br />
most of his life and<br />
enjoys it so much, he<br />
started Jersey Boy<br />
Entertainment, LLC.<br />
In 2019!<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Originally from<br />
Connecticut, Gordon<br />
started singing<br />
in his high school<br />
choir. He quickly<br />
became a soloist<br />
with a deep passion<br />
for Gospel music. He<br />
released a Gospel<br />
CD in 2003. He<br />
continues to sing in<br />
church and enjoys<br />
Karaoke and live<br />
music venues.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Originally from Ohio,<br />
Tony started singing<br />
at the age of four<br />
with his father in<br />
local churches in<br />
Ohio and Kentucky.<br />
They recorded their<br />
first record when he<br />
was 8 years old. Tony<br />
sang in a Country<br />
band for 10 years<br />
and now sings just<br />
for the fun of it!<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Originally from<br />
Maryland, Violet<br />
studied music for<br />
four years at the<br />
famed Peabody<br />
Institute in Baltimore.<br />
She performed<br />
on Cruise ships and<br />
was a professional<br />
DJ for several years.<br />
She now sings for<br />
fun and still enjoys<br />
performing!<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Originally from<br />
Michigan, Sue started<br />
singing in school<br />
and church choirs. In<br />
2017 and 2018, Sue<br />
competed at the North<br />
American Country<br />
Music Association<br />
competition in Pigeon<br />
Forge, Tennessee. She<br />
placed 1st, 2nd and<br />
3rd in various Country<br />
Music categories<br />
including, “Entertainer<br />
of the Year, New<br />
Country 50 and over!<br />
In 2019, she helped<br />
form JBE, LLC. with her<br />
husband Lester.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Originally from New<br />
Hampshire, Howard<br />
has been singing for<br />
fun for many years.<br />
Also, a professional<br />
DJ, he enjoys singing<br />
the Blues, Country and<br />
good ole’ Rock & Roll!<br />
Howard loves singing<br />
so much, he has his<br />
own Shure microphone<br />
he carries to each gig!<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 15<br />
David Mains<br />
Marti Capodiferro<br />
David Mains plays the piano and<br />
sings. While his wife Joanie served in<br />
the U.S. Air Force, David had many<br />
opportunities to entertain people in<br />
several states and across Europe. He<br />
brings over 35 years of entertainment<br />
experience to the Lake Placid <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>. He routinely plays the grand<br />
piano for the Contemporary Service<br />
every Sunday at First Presbyterian<br />
Church of Lake Placid in the Genesis<br />
Center. David’s performance style is to<br />
offer audience members the opportunity<br />
to “select a song” from his play list<br />
of 200. David is semi-retired, works as<br />
a paralegal at Karlson Law Group in<br />
Lake Placid and volunteers his time at<br />
church.<br />
Marti has honed her musical talents<br />
on many stages over the years. She<br />
creates a unique mix of pop, opera,<br />
standards, show and movie tunes,<br />
country and patriotic music. Marti<br />
takes you on a journey. When a song<br />
reaches her ears and dives straight into<br />
her heart, she learns it and makes it her<br />
own. That is her unique gift. She can<br />
sing in any style, and is blessed with a<br />
vast vocal range. In addition to opening<br />
the festival each day with her beautiful<br />
rendition of the National Anthem, she<br />
will make guest appearances.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
David Mains will perform at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 23 and 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 25.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Marti Capodiferro will be opening the festival each day with the National Anthem and she will<br />
make guest appearances.<br />
2019<br />
Highlands News-Sun<br />
CHARLOTTE C. STONE<br />
Attorney at Law<br />
Professional, Compassionate & Responsive<br />
OUR AREAS OF FOCUS<br />
• ESTATE PLANNING<br />
- Trusts - Wills - Powers of Attorney<br />
- Health Care Surrogates - Living Wills<br />
• PROBATE<br />
• TRUST ADMINISTRATION<br />
• ELDER LAW<br />
- Asset Protection Planning<br />
- Medicaid Qualification<br />
Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s LLC<br />
1315 SR 64 West<br />
Avon Park, FL 33825<br />
Phone: 863-453-0014<br />
Fax: 863-453-0015<br />
Email: info@classiccaladiums.com<br />
Product available March thru September<br />
at our Avon Park Retail Store<br />
Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm<br />
www.classiccaladiums.com<br />
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SEBRING<br />
3200 US Hwy 27 S., Suite 201<br />
863.402.5424<br />
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314 Ave K, SE<br />
863.439.4500<br />
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Open House & Tours August 2020<br />
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863-453-0014, ext. 207 or ext. 215<br />
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16 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Mountain Dew Cloggers<br />
The New Floridians<br />
Energetic<br />
and exciting,<br />
the “Mountain<br />
Dew Cloggers”<br />
organization<br />
has existed<br />
for over 30<br />
years and<br />
performed<br />
at all but one<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>. The<br />
Cloggers’<br />
group has<br />
grown over<br />
the years and<br />
is one of the<br />
most popular<br />
performances<br />
at the festival.<br />
Come and<br />
welcome the<br />
Mountain<br />
Dew Cloggers<br />
on Saturday<br />
morning for<br />
their 30th performance<br />
at<br />
the <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>. This<br />
group is a<br />
huge hit.<br />
This ministry originated in Tennessee<br />
as the “Tennessee Harmony Boys” in the<br />
early 1950s. After relocating to Florida,<br />
the group’s founder Bill reorganized the<br />
group and renamed it “The Floridians.”<br />
After Bill’s death in 2008, his son, Joe<br />
Long, decided to continue this ministry<br />
with his wife Twanda, brother-in-law<br />
Richard Joynes and dear friend Kim<br />
Zeh. He renamed the group — The New<br />
Floridians. They perform at various venues<br />
throughout the year. This exciting<br />
and intoxicating group performs each<br />
day at the festival — do not miss the<br />
group’s performances! They are great!<br />
In addition to being great singers,<br />
all members served their respective<br />
communities. Joe Long is the Division<br />
Chief of Operations for Osceola<br />
County Fire Rescue and EMS, his<br />
beautiful wife Twanda Long is a retired<br />
process server, brother-in-law Richard<br />
Joynes is a Registered Nurse from<br />
Dunedin and dear friend Kim Feld is<br />
a Police Officer with the Longwood<br />
Police Department.<br />
Joe Long, with the assistance of Ben<br />
Feld, a Physician Assistant, provide<br />
superb sound support for all the<br />
entertainers.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
The Mountain Dew Cloggers will perform at 9:45 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and<br />
11 a.m. on Saturday, July 24.<br />
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The New Floridians will perform at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 23; 10 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. on<br />
Saturday, July 24; and 11:05 a.m. on Sunday, July 25.<br />
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Welcome to the<br />
30th Annual<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong><br />
BATES SONS & DAUGHTERS<br />
CALADIUMS<br />
Growers of Quality <strong>Caladium</strong>s for Over 65 Years<br />
Hanging Baskets Large 1 4” Pots 6” Pots<br />
Please visit our booth in Stuart Park<br />
and help support next years <strong>Caladium</strong> festival<br />
with your purchase!<br />
Bates Sons & Daughters<br />
caladiumsonline.com<br />
81 BATES ROAD • LAKE PLACID, FL 33852<br />
PHONE: 863-3274 • 863-465-3274
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 17<br />
NoteWorthy<br />
Sweet Fleet<br />
Lead — Chris Fowler is<br />
fairly new to Barbershop<br />
(seven years) but has<br />
taken to it like a duck<br />
to water. He is currently<br />
President of the Sebring<br />
Chapter, Heartland<br />
Harmonizers. Chris works<br />
at South Florida State<br />
College.<br />
Baritone — Matt<br />
Clancy, the only one of<br />
us who has competed on<br />
the international stage<br />
in a quartet many times<br />
and has the hardware<br />
to prove it, including a<br />
Silver Medal singing with<br />
SIGNATURE. Matt is the<br />
Director of our Chorus<br />
and is a Medical Massage<br />
Therapist in Lake Placid.<br />
Tenor — Jim Palmer.<br />
While singing the highest<br />
part, he is also the<br />
oldest member with 47<br />
years in the Barbershop<br />
Harmony Society. He<br />
has sung in Chapter<br />
Quartets and competed<br />
in numerous District<br />
contests for 46 years. Jim<br />
works PIT at Highlands<br />
Master Jewelers (he’s the<br />
one with the handlebar<br />
mustache).<br />
Bass — Stirling Snyder<br />
gets to sing the lowest<br />
part and has been a<br />
member of BHS for<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
NoteWorthy will perform at 10:05 a.m. on Friday, July 23.<br />
25 years. He has sung<br />
Baritone in Chapter<br />
Quartets but loves the<br />
bass part. Stirling has<br />
lived half his life as a<br />
resident of Florida. He is a<br />
department supervisor at<br />
Good Will.<br />
Sweet Fleet is a Fleetwood Mac tribute band composed of five young adults<br />
(ranging in age from 17-21) originating out of Sarasota, Florida. Formed in 2020,<br />
their passion to bring such an iconic group’s chemistry to you shines in everything<br />
they do. For booking info, contact their manager, Gregory Burke, at 941-587-5682.<br />
Sweet Fleet will perform at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 23.<br />
COURTESY PHOTO<br />
Come Explore the FINAL PHASE of OurAward-Winning,<br />
Active, Affordable, 55+ Retirement<br />
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2019<br />
Highlands News-Sun<br />
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• Clubhouse • Heated Pool<br />
• Hot Tub • Exercise Room<br />
• RV Storage (Subject to availablity)<br />
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HOUSES STARTING AT $179,900<br />
INCLUDING THE STANDARD LOT<br />
Prices subject to change without notice.<br />
CALL 863-531-3718 FOR MORE INFORMATION<br />
www.coveredbridgelakeplacid.com
18 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
A caladium tale<br />
More simple growing tips for dramatic landscape color<br />
By NORMA RIZER<br />
Editor’s Note: Reprinted from<br />
the 2019 <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong><br />
Guide, from the archives of the<br />
Highlands News-Sun.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s offer the explosion<br />
of color and the dramatic<br />
appeal to improve your landscaping.<br />
With a wide range of<br />
colors and leaf sizes, they work<br />
great in your garden or as a fill<br />
around your trees. We will try<br />
to answer some questions you<br />
may have, so grab a glass of<br />
iced tea, find a cool place to sit<br />
and start planning your yard.<br />
As you have noticed as you<br />
travel around Lake Placid,<br />
this is the middle of <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
Country. Take a walk around<br />
the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> and<br />
you will find everything from<br />
potted plants to tubers (or<br />
bulbs, if you prefer). Chat with<br />
any of the sellers and they will<br />
get you started in the right<br />
direction by answering any of<br />
your questions.<br />
Like all plants, growing<br />
starts with the correct type of<br />
soil to be successful with your<br />
gardening ideas. <strong>Caladium</strong>s<br />
do best in well-drained soil,<br />
rich in organic material. With a<br />
little planning and preparation<br />
they will do extremely well<br />
in Florida’s great sandy soil.<br />
Florida also offers the ideal<br />
climate for caladiums; heat<br />
and humidity are just what<br />
they like. <strong>Caladium</strong>s are also<br />
inclined to thrive in partially<br />
shaded areas, although some<br />
varieties have different light<br />
requirements. Just check with<br />
your supplier on what will meet<br />
your needs.<br />
All the tubers need is to be<br />
planted no more than two<br />
inches below the soil line and<br />
spaced eight to 14 inches apart,<br />
depending on your plans.<br />
Larger tubers will usually<br />
produce more leaves, but small<br />
tubers can produce larger<br />
plants if left in the same spot.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> bulbs will orient<br />
themselves in the ground, but<br />
if there is a pointed end, plant<br />
it pointing up. Check with your<br />
supplier on which fertilizers to<br />
use.<br />
Dry soil will make for unhappy<br />
caladiums. Hot and moist<br />
conditions are necessary for<br />
germination, watering frequently<br />
to keep soil moist but<br />
not soggy. Some varieties are<br />
suitable for full sun, but do not<br />
let them dry out.<br />
In the tropical south, caladiums<br />
can be left in the ground<br />
year round. Lake Placid is in<br />
Planting Zone 9 so there is<br />
no need to remove the bulbs.<br />
Plants in the northern areas will<br />
need to be removed before the<br />
first frost; then replanted the<br />
next year after the chance of<br />
frost is past.<br />
Under more shady conditions,<br />
caladiums will show<br />
more green in the leaves.<br />
Darker colors tend to be more<br />
pronounced in acidic soils. At<br />
least one reference mentions<br />
that fertilizing may cause color<br />
variations, and some varieties<br />
change color as they mature.<br />
Mom always told us bloom<br />
stalks should be removed before<br />
flowering to force bulbs to send<br />
energy to the showy leaves.<br />
Growers here say that although<br />
mom was right about most<br />
things, this is not really needed.<br />
Blooming will not affect the life<br />
or condition of the plant.<br />
Since some gardeners will be<br />
planting in the northern parts,<br />
be sure to follow your supplier’s<br />
instructions when you receive<br />
your tubers.<br />
Here are a few facts if you’re<br />
taking home plants or tubers:<br />
• <strong>Caladium</strong>s are tropical<br />
plants and tubers need to be<br />
stored above 60 degrees with<br />
humidity at about 75 percent.<br />
Good air circulation is critical to<br />
prevent rot.<br />
• Bulbs that have been<br />
exposed to cold temperatures<br />
will sprout slowly.<br />
• Harvest the bulbs and leaves<br />
when temperatures go below 60<br />
degrees; let them dry for a week<br />
or so, then trim the tops before<br />
storing for winter.<br />
• Starting the plants indoors<br />
and transplanting in summer<br />
is a good plan, but bulbs need<br />
warm soil to germinate quickly.<br />
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323 S. 6th Ave.<br />
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Sebring, Fl 33870<br />
(863) 382-0888
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 19<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> Co-Op founded on art, community<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> Arts and Crafts Co-Op gallery. The Co-Op offers workshops, selling or buying caladium-oriented<br />
crafts and remains very involved in the community.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> Arts & Crafts Co-Op founder and Treasurer Carol Mills, Sandi Cross (Advertising) and<br />
President Joni Warner.<br />
By AMANDA FERNANDEZ<br />
CORRESPONDENT<br />
LAKE PLACID — When someone visits<br />
The Town of Murals, also known as<br />
the <strong>Caladium</strong> Capitol of the World, and<br />
wanders down Interlake Boulevard, they<br />
shall surely see the wonderful <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
Arts and Crafts Co-Op. The building<br />
originally was host to a grocery store<br />
in the 1940s, then sat empty for years<br />
before it become home and beacon to<br />
local artists in 1992. It was created and<br />
founded by artists Carol Mills, Harriot<br />
Porter and Suellen Robinson.<br />
Carol Mills, who now serves as<br />
Treasurer and loves to weave on baskets<br />
and looms, explained that the purpose<br />
of the Co-Op was to give a place for<br />
local artists to come together to display<br />
and sell their handcrafted arts. “And<br />
the real reason we wanted to start it<br />
is because a lot of us had been doing<br />
shows outdoors. In Florida, you’re at the<br />
mercy of the weather,” she laughs. “So<br />
we thought, ‘Oh! Wouldn’t it be so nice<br />
to have a place where we can have our<br />
stuff on display all the time?’”<br />
They contacted all the artists they<br />
knew in Highlands County and had<br />
their first meeting, which consisted of<br />
84 people. “We had done a budget and<br />
we knew we needed at least 40 members<br />
to make it work,” said Mills. “And<br />
so, the first night we had 84 people and<br />
30 years later, we are still here.”<br />
The Co-Op is also a source of education<br />
to those interested in learning<br />
anything art. It is totally artist run. From<br />
the gallery to their classrooms, they<br />
offer a variety of different workshops<br />
from painting to pottery. “We used to<br />
have a girl from Nantucket come down<br />
who taught me how to make Nantucket<br />
baskets,” said Mills. “We had Martha<br />
Weatherbee come in and teach Shaker<br />
baskets.”<br />
The Co-Op also has roots in the<br />
community’s mural culture. One of the<br />
Co-Op founders, Harriot Porter, while<br />
on a motorcycle trip to Alaska with<br />
her husband Bob Porter, came across<br />
a town called Chemainus in British<br />
Columbia. It was here they encountered<br />
“larger than life” murals painted around<br />
the town. “So they brought back the<br />
idea of murals,” Mills said. “The first<br />
mural that was painted is right here on<br />
the side of our building.”<br />
If that wasn’t integrated enough,<br />
the Co-Op is very involved with the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong>. “They first started<br />
having art competitions and we used<br />
to have it back here and whoever the<br />
winner was of the art competition,<br />
their design was put on the t-shirts and<br />
the posters for the festival,” explained<br />
Mills. “So we’ve always been tied tightly<br />
together with the caladium growers.<br />
That’s why we named it the <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
ART | 37<br />
Est. 2003<br />
<br />
General<br />
Contractor<br />
adno=00068454<br />
“Constructing with Confidence” CG1518433<br />
ChrisCauffeld77@gmail.com • 863-441-1569
20 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 21<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s were first successfully<br />
bred in the1860s. One of the oldest<br />
hybrids, “Candidum” is still a very<br />
popular variety.<br />
By 1910, they had made their way to Florida. Today,<br />
almost all commercial caladium production in the<br />
world takes place in central Florida, most in Lake<br />
Placid. There are approximately 1200 acres in the area<br />
producing these lovely plants and more than 2000<br />
named varieties have been produced over the past<br />
150 years.<br />
Vendors are correct at<br />
time of publication<br />
VENDORS<br />
ANIMAL<br />
P-111 Lakiotis, Peter Sewing for<br />
Animals<br />
22 Kirsch, A Dog Items<br />
ARTS<br />
86 Borges, C Carved Animals<br />
P-108 Braun, D Live Free LLC<br />
P-100 Hittman, N Abstract Artist<br />
P-97 Larson, S Palm Frond Art<br />
17 Nicholas, B Mixed Media<br />
41 Sarzynski, J Southern Paint Pot<br />
15 Sims, L Art on Canvas<br />
4 Wilderman, J John's Pens<br />
BODY PRODUCTS / CREAMS<br />
49 Stern, D Pain Relief Creams<br />
87 Spires, V Bath Bombs, Candles<br />
List with " The Jager team"<br />
they will help you with all your<br />
selling & purchasing needs!<br />
Wendy Jager<br />
wendyj@fourstarhomes.com<br />
(863) 414-8864<br />
CERAMIC & GLASS<br />
47 Nelson, S Glass Art<br />
25 Bradshaw, D Stained Glass<br />
94 Costello, A Sea Glass<br />
18 Fraser, L Art Glass<br />
21 Ryland, L Stained Glass<br />
CHILDREN’S<br />
81 & 2 Toby’s Clowns Face Art<br />
80 United Methodist Crafts<br />
FABRIC / SEWING<br />
48 Gill, A Knit & Crochet<br />
P-102 McDonough, E Misc.<br />
14 Mosli, M Sun Protection<br />
45 Schumann, Lori Market Totes<br />
20 Toledo, K Purses, etc.<br />
23 Toomey, M Fabric Items<br />
FOOD & DRINK<br />
P-99 Gilbert, W Nuts<br />
16 Heilman, B Get Dusted<br />
9 MIles Pecans<br />
1 Highlands Co. Citrus Juice<br />
Kettle Corn Interlake & Pine<br />
13 Rodreguezy, M Honey<br />
Out Back Snacks Interlake<br />
GARDEN & PLANTS & DECOR<br />
55 Buford, S Plumerias<br />
53 DiGiacome Garden Art<br />
58 Elting, P Bromeliads, Orchids<br />
38-9 Erskine, E Bird House - Feeders<br />
56-7 Gretton, D Perenniels & Herbs<br />
36-7 Hamilton, A Yard Art<br />
91 Higgens, M Deco Pots<br />
54 Lamb, V Desert Rose-Orchids<br />
65 Lloyd, C Exotic Plant Eden<br />
#1 Agent Company Wide!!<br />
Top Sales Producer<br />
in leased land<br />
Manufactured home<br />
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adno=00067348<br />
P-106 Lutz, M Garden Decor<br />
61 Martinez Plants Trees<br />
10 Richie, J Wooden Lawn Art<br />
41 Sarzynski, J Southern Paint Pot<br />
74 Sidney, M Beach Shack Chic<br />
85 Tirado, T Orchids & Plants<br />
60 Wall, S Desert Rose<br />
HATS & HANDBAGS<br />
92<br />
3<br />
Brinker<br />
Ryland, L<br />
Hats & Sunglasses<br />
Stained Glass-Hats<br />
JEWELRY<br />
103-4 Beard, S Suzie's Pearls<br />
2 Barbour, G Earcuffs<br />
88-9 Bell, R Magnetic Jewelry<br />
P-110 Edge, Amy OGZdesigns<br />
75 Fillipone, S Gems Select<br />
62 Griffith, S Beaded Jewelry<br />
24 Henwood, B 2 Fast Cats<br />
11 Moradzadch, A Wire Wrap<br />
42 Rohlfs, B Vintage Wears<br />
8 Roulette, L Roulette Designs<br />
5 Wile, M Tropical Creations<br />
METAL ART<br />
36-37 Hamilton, A Twisted Mind Metal<br />
102 Klemm, J & D Metal Art Creations<br />
MISCELLANEOUS<br />
25 Bradshaw, D DayzAire<br />
6 Campuzano, C Frozen Moments<br />
12 Jolly-Romine Candles, Wax Melts<br />
P 97 Larson, S Palm Frond Art<br />
19 Qin, J Edgest Leather<br />
90 Sandusky, S Grandma's Swag<br />
P-103 Smith, B Painted Glass<br />
81-2 Toby's Clowns Face Painting<br />
P98 Vanderbloom, C Leather<br />
(863) 414-8864<br />
www.FourStarHomes.com<br />
SIGN & BASKETS<br />
101 Adam, C Baskets<br />
67 Bowles, C Signs<br />
105 Cochran, S Stick signs<br />
P-104-5 McKinney Distressed Signs<br />
43 Varley, Gina Signs, etc.<br />
WOOD<br />
38-39 Erskine, E Bird Houses/Chimes<br />
100 McCoy, R Biminibob Art<br />
10 Richi, P Lazy Susans<br />
4 Wilderman, J John's Pens<br />
COMMERCIAL<br />
72 Master Gardeners Help Desk<br />
40 Small Town Girl Insurance<br />
68-70 Zepherhills Water Water Station<br />
50 Vision Auto Glass of Florida<br />
Laurel Adams<br />
Sales Agent/<br />
Assistant<br />
Sharon Taboada<br />
Sales Agent/<br />
Assistant
20 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 21<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s were first successfully<br />
bred in the1860s. One of the oldest<br />
hybrids, “Candidum” is still a very<br />
popular variety.<br />
By 1910, they had made their way to Florida. Today,<br />
almost all commercial caladium production in the<br />
world takes place in central Florida, most in Lake<br />
Placid. There are approximately 1200 acres in the area<br />
producing these lovely plants and more than 2000<br />
named varieties have been produced over the past<br />
150 years.<br />
Vendors are correct at<br />
time of publication<br />
VENDORS<br />
ANIMAL<br />
P-111 Lakiotis, Peter Sewing for<br />
Animals<br />
22 Kirsch, A Dog Items<br />
ARTS<br />
86 Borges, C Carved Animals<br />
P-108 Braun, D Live Free LLC<br />
P-100 Hittman, N Abstract Artist<br />
P-97 Larson, S Palm Frond Art<br />
17 Nicholas, B Mixed Media<br />
41 Sarzynski, J Southern Paint Pot<br />
15 Sims, L Art on Canvas<br />
4 Wilderman, J John's Pens<br />
BODY PRODUCTS / CREAMS<br />
49 Stern, D Pain Relief Creams<br />
87 Spires, V Bath Bombs, Candles<br />
List with " The Jager team"<br />
they will help you with all your<br />
selling & purchasing needs!<br />
Wendy Jager<br />
wendyj@fourstarhomes.com<br />
(863) 414-8864<br />
CERAMIC & GLASS<br />
47 Nelson, S Glass Art<br />
25 Bradshaw, D Stained Glass<br />
94 Costello, A Sea Glass<br />
18 Fraser, L Art Glass<br />
21 Ryland, L Stained Glass<br />
CHILDREN’S<br />
81 & 2 Toby’s Clowns Face Art<br />
80 United Methodist Crafts<br />
FABRIC / SEWING<br />
48 Gill, A Knit & Crochet<br />
P-102 McDonough, E Misc.<br />
14 Mosli, M Sun Protection<br />
45 Schumann, Lori Market Totes<br />
20 Toledo, K Purses, etc.<br />
23 Toomey, M Fabric Items<br />
FOOD & DRINK<br />
P-99 Gilbert, W Nuts<br />
16 Heilman, B Get Dusted<br />
9 MIles Pecans<br />
1 Highlands Co. Citrus Juice<br />
Kettle Corn Interlake & Pine<br />
13 Rodreguezy, M Honey<br />
Out Back Snacks Interlake<br />
GARDEN & PLANTS & DECOR<br />
55 Buford, S Plumerias<br />
53 DiGiacome Garden Art<br />
58 Elting, P Bromeliads, Orchids<br />
38-9 Erskine, E Bird House - Feeders<br />
56-7 Gretton, D Perenniels & Herbs<br />
36-7 Hamilton, A Yard Art<br />
91 Higgens, M Deco Pots<br />
54 Lamb, V Desert Rose-Orchids<br />
65 Lloyd, C Exotic Plant Eden<br />
#1 Agent Company Wide!!<br />
Top Sales Producer<br />
in leased land<br />
Manufactured home<br />
sales 2019 & 2020<br />
* Free Market Analysis *<br />
adno=00067348<br />
P-106 Lutz, M Garden Decor<br />
61 Martinez Plants Trees<br />
10 Richie, J Wooden Lawn Art<br />
41 Sarzynski, J Southern Paint Pot<br />
74 Sidney, M Beach Shack Chic<br />
85 Tirado, T Orchids & Plants<br />
60 Wall, S Desert Rose<br />
HATS & HANDBAGS<br />
92<br />
3<br />
Brinker<br />
Ryland, L<br />
Hats & Sunglasses<br />
Stained Glass-Hats<br />
JEWELRY<br />
103-4 Beard, S Suzie's Pearls<br />
2 Barbour, G Earcuffs<br />
88-9 Bell, R Magnetic Jewelry<br />
P-110 Edge, Amy OGZdesigns<br />
75 Fillipone, S Gems Select<br />
62 Griffith, S Beaded Jewelry<br />
24 Henwood, B 2 Fast Cats<br />
11 Moradzadch, A Wire Wrap<br />
42 Rohlfs, B Vintage Wears<br />
8 Roulette, L Roulette Designs<br />
5 Wile, M Tropical Creations<br />
METAL ART<br />
36-37 Hamilton, A Twisted Mind Metal<br />
102 Klemm, J & D Metal Art Creations<br />
MISCELLANEOUS<br />
25 Bradshaw, D DayzAire<br />
6 Campuzano, C Frozen Moments<br />
12 Jolly-Romine Candles, Wax Melts<br />
P 97 Larson, S Palm Frond Art<br />
19 Qin, J Edgest Leather<br />
90 Sandusky, S Grandma's Swag<br />
P-103 Smith, B Painted Glass<br />
81-2 Toby's Clowns Face Painting<br />
P98 Vanderbloom, C Leather<br />
(863) 414-8864<br />
www.FourStarHomes.com<br />
SIGN & BASKETS<br />
101 Adam, C Baskets<br />
67 Bowles, C Signs<br />
105 Cochran, S Stick signs<br />
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22 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Free video explains caladium farming<br />
By NORMA RIZER<br />
FROM THE ARCHIVES<br />
Editor’s Note: Updated and reprinted<br />
from an article written by Norma Rizer<br />
for a previous <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong>.<br />
LAKE PLACID — <strong>Caladium</strong>s are not<br />
native to Highlands County, but you’d<br />
never know it to wander through<br />
Lake Placid during the 30th annual<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong>. The town has<br />
embraced these beautiful plants and<br />
made them our own.<br />
Learning more about the introduction<br />
of caladiums into the area is easy,<br />
if you take time to see the short video<br />
that explains a great deal about the<br />
beautiful plants. Make time during<br />
the festival (or anytime you’re in Lake<br />
Placid) to stop by the Greater Lake<br />
Placid Chamber of Commerce at 18<br />
N. Oak Avenue. There you can view<br />
a free video that welcomes you to<br />
Lake Placid and introduces you to the<br />
caladium growing process.<br />
Beginning with the explanation of<br />
our nickname “<strong>Caladium</strong> Capital of<br />
the World”, the video shows the specialized<br />
soil that, along with the warm<br />
weather, makes caladium production<br />
ideal. The video proceeds to identify<br />
the main Floridian horticulturists<br />
involved in early caladium production,<br />
including the men who first grew<br />
the showy plants right here in Lake<br />
Placid. Photos have been provided so<br />
the viewer can visualize these men<br />
working in their greenhouses and<br />
gardens.<br />
In addition to providing a glimpse at<br />
caladium fields, some of the various<br />
popular cultivars are portrayed.<br />
Actual footage of bulb preparation<br />
and planting are shown. Surprisingly,<br />
the process is similar to any farming<br />
operation, although the specialized<br />
equipment is slightly different.<br />
From field to shipping, the story<br />
is told in a pleasant, interesting<br />
manner. For those more interested<br />
in home gardening of caladiums,<br />
information is provided clearly<br />
and concisely. There’s even a short<br />
section about bringing caladiums<br />
indoors after they go dormant for<br />
the winter season. This is absolutely<br />
necessary in northern climates, but<br />
southern gardeners also have been<br />
known to do this.<br />
“The <strong>Caladium</strong>s of Lake Placid”<br />
presents a wealth of information in<br />
just under 13 minutes. Produced<br />
locally by the Chamber of Commerce<br />
and the Lake Placid <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
Growers Association, the video<br />
was written and filmed by Big Byte<br />
Productions. Visitors will be delighted<br />
to learn more about the caladium<br />
industry; at the very least, they will<br />
see some stunning photography of<br />
gorgeous plants.<br />
The video is shown continually<br />
in the mural room at the chamber<br />
during the open hours of the festival<br />
and is included with your bus tour<br />
ticket. Stop by at your convenience<br />
for a closer look at the star of the<br />
event. Volunteers will be hand to<br />
offer directions and answer questions<br />
about Lake Placid and area<br />
attractions, including the famous<br />
Lake Placid murals.<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
A visit to the colorful caladium fields that can be seen from County Road 621 is a must for<br />
summertime visitors to Lake Placid. This is the time of year when the fields are in full color.<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
The story of caladium farming is told in a free video at the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce.<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 23<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> is rich with history<br />
Editor’s Note: This is a condensed<br />
version of an article written by Anne<br />
Reynolds for a previous <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>.<br />
Lake Placid is “The <strong>Caladium</strong> Capital<br />
of The World.” For any industry that<br />
makes such a mark on an area, there<br />
should be a festival celebrating it.<br />
The idea was first broached by Doris<br />
Gentry and a few years later growers<br />
were prodded and helped by Ann<br />
Bond and Audrey Vickers from the<br />
Convention and Visitors Bureau. They<br />
suggested September as the caladiums<br />
were in full bloom and it was a slow<br />
month for merchants.<br />
Unfortunately, the written history and<br />
a large historical exhibit of the caladium<br />
industry were lost in a 2004 hurricane,<br />
but enough survived in family files to<br />
tell the story and continue the festival.<br />
In 1990, two competing caladium<br />
grower families decided to work together<br />
to make the festival possible. Carolyn<br />
Phypers of Happiness Farms and<br />
Dot Bates of Bates Sons & Daughters<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s took on the job.<br />
The first location of the festival was<br />
at Happiness Farms. In preparation,<br />
Bates and Phypers drove a pickup truck<br />
and walked door to door offering free<br />
caladium bulbs (tubers) by the bagful to<br />
anyone from County Road 621 to Lake<br />
Blue Estates who would plant them. Bus<br />
tours ferried visitors to see the fields<br />
and then be shown how beautifully<br />
caladiums could be incorporated into a<br />
landscape. Two years later, they added<br />
the WatersEdge neighborhood and<br />
left trays of bulbs in the cul-de-sac for<br />
anyone who wanted to plant them.<br />
The festival had one bus and two runs<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
<strong>Festival</strong>goers will have many options when come to purchasing plants at this year’s <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong> in downtown Lake Placid.<br />
the first year, with the number increasing<br />
to as many as 41 tours in a year with<br />
one bus doing four or five runs. Sun<br />
Bank, now SunTrust, donated $3,000 the<br />
first year to start the effort and continued<br />
its support for several years.<br />
Vera, Rose and Julia Sapp entertained<br />
festival crowds as cloggers, and guests<br />
also viewed a video about the industry<br />
in a barn. Norma Stokes and the ladies<br />
of the local Farm Bureau provided<br />
lunch for everyone. All the growers<br />
were assigned a task and had a display<br />
table. Other growers besides Bates and<br />
Phypers who participated the first year<br />
were D & L Bulb Farm, Cooper’s Farm,<br />
Joiners, Lake Huntley, Lake Placid<br />
Bulb, Parker Island, Hendry <strong>Caladium</strong>s,<br />
Sapp <strong>Caladium</strong>s, Scarboroughs from<br />
Lake Placid, and <strong>Caladium</strong> World and<br />
Buddy’s from Sebring.<br />
One important commitment was to<br />
recognize the living, first generation<br />
caladium pioneers, Emmett and<br />
Mildred Bates, Paul Phypers Sr., Boots<br />
Holmes, and Zena Hendry. Some of<br />
the older growers would sit in rocking<br />
chairs at the <strong>Caladium</strong> Arts and Crafts<br />
Cooperative and talk with visitors. All<br />
the men took turns standing under<br />
the shade cloth to talk to visitors and<br />
answer questions. It was moved then<br />
into the <strong>Caladium</strong> Arts and Crafts<br />
Cooperative, with Dot and Maxine<br />
Kelley overseeing the historical aspect.<br />
Maxine’s family was involved in the<br />
industry for many years, and her<br />
granddaughter, Heidi (Head) Davis, was<br />
the first <strong>Caladium</strong> Queen.<br />
Although the number of growers<br />
has decreased over the last few years,<br />
the second generations of growers are<br />
making their mark. The Bates family has<br />
had a grower’s exhibit each year. Their<br />
daughter, Teri, grows out pots of new<br />
varieties. All members of the Bates and<br />
Phypers families can be seen in action<br />
throughout the festival.<br />
The festival has something for everyone.<br />
All food vendors are local and the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> committee ensures<br />
there are no duplicates. They only have<br />
room for a hundred booths so there’s a<br />
long waiting list for arts and crafts vendors,<br />
with an attempt to keep at least<br />
half of the booths caladium related. The<br />
vendors love the venue because they are<br />
welcomed and given coffee, doughnuts,<br />
and orange juice when they set up.<br />
They also receive water throughout the<br />
day and a bag of caladiums at the end.<br />
Vendors are visited, treated well and immediately<br />
apply for the following year.<br />
Lake Placid is usually the first venue of<br />
their season.<br />
The festival has required the support<br />
of numerous community volunteers.<br />
The town and the county have been<br />
very supportive by blocking off the<br />
streets and giving free garbage pickup.<br />
Carolyn Phypers said, “We wanted to<br />
help the town and businesses, so the<br />
second year we held it in town.” Every<br />
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24 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Lake Placid has it all<br />
Small towns sometimes have a<br />
reputation for being a bit boring, but<br />
most of them have many redeeming<br />
qualities; Lake Placid certainly does.<br />
While residents enjoy a slower pace<br />
than folks in larger communities, they<br />
are quick to point out the benefits —<br />
ease of access (traffic is not generally<br />
a problem), reduced crime rates<br />
(everybody knows everyone else)<br />
and you have lots of friendly people<br />
(everybody really knows everyone<br />
else).<br />
When asked why they chose Lake<br />
Placid, residents almost always<br />
mention the close proximity to both<br />
of Florida’s coasts. If beaches or larger<br />
shopping outlets beckon, the drive is<br />
generally about an hour, making for a<br />
spectacular day trip without giving up<br />
the little slice of heaven here in the<br />
heartland.<br />
Lake Placid still celebrates holidays<br />
in the traditional manner —<br />
Independence Day and Halloween<br />
are community events; there’s a<br />
Christmas parade each year and the<br />
local high school still holds a homecoming<br />
parade.<br />
In July, caladiums begin to show<br />
up everywhere, which is the reason<br />
for one of Lake Placid’s nicknames,<br />
“<strong>Caladium</strong> Capital of the World,” as<br />
more than 80% of the world’s caladium<br />
bulbs are grown here and shipped<br />
to market. The local economic engine<br />
is driven by agriculture and tourism.<br />
In addition to the caladium production<br />
in the fertile bottom lands,<br />
higher grounds give way to citrus<br />
groves and cattle ranching.<br />
Visitors soon notice many buildings<br />
in the community decorated with<br />
beautiful and informative murals,<br />
many of which tell<br />
the story of historical<br />
events and the people<br />
of Lake Placid. Most of<br />
the murals are maintained<br />
by the local<br />
Mural Society, which<br />
publishes a guide<br />
book that is available<br />
for purchase at the<br />
chamber of commerce<br />
and many retail stores.<br />
It’s easy to see how<br />
Lake Placid came by<br />
another nickname,<br />
“The Town of Murals.”<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
“’Captain’ T.W. Webb” depicts one the area’s first caladium growers in the 1930s, who, at the<br />
time, owned the first and only service station between Sebring and West Palm Beach. The<br />
mural is on Davis and Tompkins, Attorneys at Law, 107 Interlake Blvd.<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
Highlands County<br />
is home to many<br />
due to our location on the Lake Wales<br />
Ridge, a stretch of high ground that<br />
runs down the peninsula. The ridge,<br />
once a string of islands surrounded<br />
by an ocean that receded thousands<br />
of years ago, is home to many<br />
threatened and endangered species.<br />
Some of them are found nowhere<br />
else in the world. Archbold Biological<br />
Station was established near here as a<br />
scientific center for study of the area.<br />
Lake June Scrub Park and Highlands<br />
Hammock State Park give a glimpse<br />
into nature in the county. You may<br />
see sandhill cranes, gopher tortoises,<br />
scrub jays, and of course, alligators<br />
water lakes, offering water sports<br />
and some of the best fishing in the<br />
United States. Sport fishing makes<br />
any day on the water a treat. Check<br />
with any of the local boat retailers or<br />
bait shops to get headed in the right<br />
direction.<br />
There are eight local parks to provide<br />
more entertainment opportunities,<br />
including lake access. Of course,<br />
golfing in Florida’s fine weather is<br />
grand and Lake Placid has two golf<br />
courses open to the public. There’s a<br />
winery nearby, with locally produced<br />
wines available at the festival.<br />
There’s a wide variety of retail<br />
A dramatic sunset unfolds over Little Lake Redwater. Lake unique species of while you visit.<br />
Placid is well known for intense sunset hues. plants and animals, The Lake Placid area has 29 fresh<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 25<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> growers play unique role in local agriculture<br />
STAFF REPORT<br />
It takes a lot of caladiums<br />
to make Lake Placid the<br />
“<strong>Caladium</strong> Capital of the<br />
World.” Lake Placid’s claim to<br />
fame is well-earned with virtually<br />
all commercial production<br />
of caladiums taking place right<br />
here in central Florida. Most of<br />
those growers have fields here,<br />
on the rich dirt near the south<br />
shore of Lake Istokpoga.<br />
While growers have come<br />
and gone over the many years,<br />
about a dozen are currently<br />
providing bulbs to the retail<br />
market. Most are family owned<br />
and operated, with the caladium<br />
pioneers passing along<br />
their secrets and their fields to<br />
new generations.<br />
From Lake Placid, Bates Sons<br />
& Daughters Inc.; Good Day<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s; Happiness Farms<br />
Inc.; Heartland <strong>Caladium</strong>s;<br />
Hendry <strong>Caladium</strong>s Inc.; Lake<br />
Country Farms; Lake Huntley<br />
Bulb Farm; and Lake Placid<br />
Bulb Company farm caladiums.<br />
From Sebring, <strong>Caladium</strong> World;<br />
Mrs. G.R. Spaulding; and<br />
Rainbow Acres are all growers.<br />
Currently in Avon Park, only<br />
Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s actively<br />
works a caladium farm.<br />
Without these dedicated<br />
families and businesses,<br />
gardeners in North America<br />
would be hard-pressed to find<br />
caladiums to buy.<br />
Another unique contribution<br />
caladium growers provide<br />
to the agriculture industry is<br />
the production of specialized<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
Seen here in 2012, Jose Becerra rides on the back of a caladium harvesting<br />
machine in one of Bates Sons & Daughters’ fields along County Road 621 near<br />
Lake Placid.<br />
farming equipment in order to<br />
cultivate caladium plants. The<br />
process of harvesting the plants<br />
is highly unique and required<br />
local growers to come up with<br />
new mechanisms to farm the<br />
caladiums, according to staff at<br />
Bates Sons & Daughters.<br />
When Florida caladium<br />
breeding first began in about<br />
1910, they quickly became a<br />
garden favorite. The movement<br />
didn’t really take off until about<br />
1937 or so, as production was<br />
limited.<br />
By the 1950s, only about 150<br />
acres were planted in caladiums<br />
in this area. Now, more<br />
than 1,200 acres are devoted to<br />
the showy plant.<br />
With help from the Institute<br />
of Food and Agricultural<br />
Sciences at the University<br />
of Florida and an extensive<br />
research program at Louisiana<br />
State University, growers have<br />
advanced information about<br />
techniques for caladium<br />
production, protection and<br />
processing.<br />
At the urging of local caladium<br />
pioneers, IFAS initiated a<br />
caladium breeding program in<br />
1976. Over the past 19 years,<br />
the program has released<br />
several new cultivars, many of<br />
which are available at various<br />
sources.<br />
FAST FACTS<br />
When Florida caladium<br />
breeding first began in about<br />
1910, it quickly became a<br />
garden favorite. The movement<br />
didn’t really take off until<br />
This is the Blushing Bride variety from Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s.<br />
about 1937, as production was<br />
limited. By the 1950s, only<br />
about 150 acres were planted<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
While caladium growers have come and gone over the years, about a dozen<br />
are currently providing bulbs to the retail market. Most are family owned and<br />
operated, with the caladium pioneers passing along their secrets and their<br />
fields to new generations.<br />
in caladiums in this area. Now,<br />
more than 1,200 acres are<br />
devoted to the showy plant.<br />
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26 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
A look back at previous festivals<br />
For 30 years the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> has<br />
been as dependable as a summer afternoon<br />
shower in Florida. It all started<br />
when local caladium growers Carolyn<br />
Phypers and Dot<br />
Bates decided to<br />
raise awareness<br />
of their colorful<br />
plants and bulbs<br />
and celebrated a<br />
mini-festival in<br />
the parking lot of<br />
Happiness Farms<br />
on County Road 621.<br />
It takes a lot of caladiums to make<br />
Enjoy photos<br />
from past<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong>s on<br />
pages 26-33<br />
Lake Placid the “<strong>Caladium</strong> Capital of the<br />
World” and it takes a lot of volunteers<br />
to put on the annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong>.<br />
For 29 years, people from all over the<br />
state have embarked on Lake Placid to<br />
attend the festival and had it not been<br />
for the pandemic’s lingering effect, last<br />
year would have been no different. Here<br />
are a few photos from our archives,<br />
dedicated to the hardworking caladium<br />
farmers and the dedicated volunteers<br />
who bring this grand event to downtown<br />
Lake Placid each year. Enjoy as<br />
you look back at previous festivals.<br />
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July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 27<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
The 2019 <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> coordinators.<br />
From left: Patti Gayle, bus tours,<br />
Sandy Rossborough, <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong><br />
art gallery, Marge Callas, <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong> arts and craft booths, Marlene<br />
Barger, entertainment coordinator, and<br />
Eileen May, Greater Lake Placid Chamber<br />
of Commerce executive director and<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> event coordinator.<br />
Not pictured: Joyce De Smet, <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong> arts and craft booths, and Karen<br />
Forsyth, <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> T-shirts.<br />
THE<br />
HITTS<br />
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119 E Park Street<br />
Lake Placid, FL 33852-6362<br />
Custom Furniture<br />
with<br />
Rustic<br />
Charm!<br />
STOREWIDE<br />
SALE!<br />
125 E Park St<br />
Lake Placid, FL 33852<br />
863-260-0435
28 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Proud sponsor and<br />
founding member of the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong><br />
for 31 years!<br />
adno=00068092<br />
Visit our booth in Stuart Park:<br />
• 20 varieties to choose from<br />
• Each bag plants 6—6” pots<br />
or 9 running feet<br />
• Deal Boxes available<br />
Www.happinessfarms.com<br />
863-465-2313<br />
704 County Road 621 East, Lake Placid, FL 33852<br />
adno=00068091<br />
CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE<br />
• Termite Inspection - Protection<br />
and Prevention<br />
• General Household Pest Control<br />
• Lawn & Ornamentals<br />
• Fertilizing<br />
• Mosquito & Ant Control<br />
• Fumigation Services<br />
Lake Placid<br />
863-465-6622<br />
Licensed<br />
&<br />
Insured<br />
Sebring<br />
863-385-6625<br />
www.clarkepestcontrol.com
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 29<br />
2019<br />
Highlands News-Sun<br />
2019<br />
Highlands News-Sun<br />
NEW FURNITURE ALTERNATIVE<br />
Best<br />
Consignment<br />
Store<br />
Best Furniture<br />
Most Unique Store<br />
Best Thrift Shop<br />
Best Home Decor<br />
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New<br />
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Arriving All<br />
The Time!<br />
HUGE<br />
SALE<br />
We Pick<br />
Up<br />
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ANNUAL CALADIUM<br />
FESTIVAL SUPER SALE!<br />
ALL WEEK OF THE<br />
FESTIVAL ENJOY OUR BEST<br />
SPECIALS OF THE YEAR.<br />
712 U.S. 27 S., Lake Placid, FL (next to Seminole Tire)<br />
4600 Sq Ft<br />
Showroom<br />
No visit to Lake Placid is complete unless you visit New 2 U.<br />
One of Highlands Counties most fun and interesting places to shop!<br />
Five<br />
Warehouses<br />
Of Furniture<br />
Added At Deep<br />
Discounted<br />
Prices<br />
Garage Sale<br />
Shoppers<br />
Welcome
30 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Highlands County #1 Real Estate Office!<br />
Your Spring Lake Neighbor Is Ready To<br />
Serve Your Real Estate Needs!<br />
Office Number: 863.385.0077<br />
adno=00068444<br />
Royal’s Furniture, Appliances & Bedding<br />
3660 South US Hwy 27 • Sebring<br />
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RoyalsFurnitureInc.com<br />
Each Offce is Independently Owned and Operated.<br />
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Crystle Berry<br />
Call or Text: 863.446.0564
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 31<br />
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32 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Dedicated To Taking Care<br />
Of All<br />
Your Needs!<br />
“We put<br />
ourinto<br />
our<br />
service”<br />
Sevigny & Associates<br />
Eye Care<br />
Leaders in Eye Health Technology<br />
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• Full line of Medical Equipment<br />
• CBD Oil • Lift Chairs<br />
• Custom Compression Garments<br />
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All Your<br />
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Thru<br />
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• Retail Pharmacy<br />
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Vitamin Club<br />
for Children<br />
& Seniors!<br />
PHARMACY 863-659-1780<br />
MEDICAL SUPPLY 863-465-0024<br />
342 E. Royal Palm St. • Lake Placid Florida 33852<br />
We’re proud to be a part of your health care team.<br />
*Accept most insurance cards including Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare.<br />
SEBRING<br />
363 US 27 South<br />
(next to Kia Dealership)<br />
adno=00066506<br />
WAUCHULA<br />
735 N. 6th Ave.<br />
(next to Auto Zone)<br />
Our primary goal at Sevigny & Associates Eye Care<br />
is to provide you with the best vision care possible<br />
and excellent customer service.<br />
We have the most advanced technology<br />
for diagnosing and treating eye diseases.<br />
Our Doctors specialize in Diabetic Eye Care,<br />
Glaucoma Management, Macular Degeneration<br />
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Monday-Friday<br />
8am-5pm<br />
Now<br />
Providing<br />
The Latest<br />
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Eyewear<br />
24-Hour<br />
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AVON PARK<br />
2315 US 27<br />
863-259-3777<br />
for appointment at any<br />
of our 5 locations.<br />
www.7eeye.com<br />
Dr. Nicole Tyrrell<br />
Optometrist<br />
LAKE PLACID<br />
27 US Hwy 27<br />
(Next to NAPA Auto)<br />
ARCADIA<br />
2442 N.E. Hwy 70<br />
(across from Publix)<br />
We accept most Medical Insurance, including Medicaid,<br />
id<br />
Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield<br />
facebook.com/sevignyeyecare
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 33<br />
Rent-a-Relative, Inc.<br />
Everyone Needs a Little Help Now and Then<br />
Serving Highlands County for Over 15 Years!<br />
Companionship -<br />
A full range of personal attention and daily living assistance<br />
Transportation -<br />
We drive and accompany you for shopping, doctors,<br />
church services, entertainment, restaurants, etc.<br />
Light Housekeeping - Laundry - Meal Preparation - And so much more!<br />
Errands -<br />
Don’t feel like going to the store? Give us a list and we will go for you!<br />
New & Used Boats<br />
Sales & Service<br />
OEM Mercury Marine Parts<br />
Accessories • Storage<br />
Bait & Tackle • Boat Detailing<br />
Machine & Weldling Shop<br />
24/7 Services -<br />
We specialize in 24/7 care-giving of your loved one.<br />
One on one service that ensures that all your needs are met right away.<br />
adno=00068065<br />
From 3 hours to 24 hours - 7 days a week<br />
Licensed<br />
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Bringing Fun to<br />
Floridians Since 1978!<br />
863-465-2814<br />
1130 US-27, Lake Placid, FL 33852<br />
www.mercuryperformance.com
34 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
TO DO<br />
FROM PAGE 3<br />
music, food, and a 50/50 drawing.<br />
The event will take place rain or shine.<br />
Spectator admission is free. For more<br />
information, call 863-465-4331 or visit<br />
lpfla.com.<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> dance<br />
The Lake Placid Jaycees <strong>Caladium</strong><br />
<strong>Festival</strong> Dance is Saturday, July 24 at<br />
the Moose Lodge from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.<br />
Doors open at 8 p.m. Cost is $10 at the<br />
door, and you must be 21 or older to<br />
attend. Live entertainment provided by<br />
Josh Blevins band. The Moose Lodge is<br />
at 2137 U.S. 27 South.<br />
Journal Plaza<br />
Visit the Farmer’s Market at the<br />
Journal Plaza in downtown Lake Placid<br />
from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday.<br />
Enjoy live music and shop for fresh<br />
produce and unique gifts. The Journal<br />
Plaza is at 231 N. Main Ave. For more<br />
information, call 863-273-4030.<br />
Clowns<br />
Toby’s Clown Museum is at 109<br />
W. Interlake Blvd. Admission is free.<br />
Learn about clowns and the community<br />
involvement of the Toby the<br />
Clown Foundation Inc. Clowns will<br />
also be roaming the event to amuse<br />
festivalgoers and will have a booth<br />
Saturday to coincide with the Car and<br />
Bike Show. For more information, call<br />
863-465-2920.<br />
Depot museum<br />
The Depot Historical Museum is at<br />
12 Park St. The museum offers visitors a<br />
display of historical furnishings, photos,<br />
documents, clothing, tools, lanterns,<br />
turpentine industry equipment, a<br />
switchboard and linotype machine.<br />
The grounds also feature a 1929 steam<br />
engine, a 1920s-era jail and a caboose.<br />
Admission is free. For more information,<br />
call 863-465-1771.<br />
SHOW<br />
FROM PAGE 6<br />
car, truck or motorcycle will certainly<br />
fit into at least one of them.<br />
It might even be chosen for a new<br />
award this year – Best of Show!<br />
As always, the car show coincides<br />
with the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> just up<br />
the street. The <strong>Festival</strong> is held at<br />
Stuart Park on Interlake Blvd. while<br />
the cars and motorcycles are on<br />
display at DeVane Park, on the circle<br />
in the Town of Lake Placid.<br />
Bob Larson has been in charge<br />
of the show for many, many years.<br />
He’s proud of it. Starting at 7 a.m. on<br />
Saturday, July 24, vehicles entered in<br />
the show will be checked in. Goodie<br />
bags and a number will be given to<br />
the drivers as they are directed to<br />
their display spot.<br />
In fact, if you would like to be a<br />
volunteer to assist at the starting<br />
line, give Bob a call at 863-464-0037.<br />
That way you get to see all the<br />
entries as they arrive.<br />
One of the biggest features of<br />
the Lake Placid Car & Bike Show is<br />
the 50/50 drawing. It always has a<br />
very rewarding cash prize. A trophy<br />
will be given out for the “Mayor’s<br />
Choice” and the “Police Chief’s<br />
Choice” as well. A DJ will be onhand<br />
to do the announcements and<br />
provide a variety of music.<br />
This annual event is presented<br />
by the Greater Lake Placid<br />
Chamber of Commerce. Go to<br />
caladiumfestival.org. You’ll find<br />
the car show entry form there.<br />
Pre-registration is only $15 – or<br />
you can just show up that morning<br />
for $20. If you have more<br />
questions, call the chamber office<br />
at 863-465-4331.<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
2006, HIGHLANDS TODAY FILE PHOTO Doug Edmonds of Cape Coral glances toward his 1939 five<br />
window Ford Coupe Street Rod during the classic car show at the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> in Lake Placid.<br />
JERRY MEISENHEIMER/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Garrett Lanier, an active member of the U.S. Coast Guard, just bought this 1967 Ford Fairlane<br />
while on leave. He’s getting it ready for his dad to show at the Lake Placid Car & Bike Show on<br />
July 24.<br />
adno=00067944<br />
Crafty Quilters<br />
13221 Us HwSebring, FL 33876<br />
863-658-2148<br />
Sebring’s Oldest<br />
Quilt Shop<br />
SALES AND SERVICE<br />
janome.com/en/machines/embroidery/mc15000<br />
Artistic Long Arms<br />
now Available!<br />
Stop in for a demo today!<br />
Fabric<br />
Notions<br />
Classes<br />
Sewing<br />
Machine<br />
Repair<br />
adno=00066516<br />
How Do You<br />
Spell Fun?<br />
BINGO!<br />
WEDNESDAY MATINEE<br />
Begins with Share the Wealth at 12 Noon<br />
Early Birds at 12:30 • Session Begins at 1:00<br />
SUNDAY MATINEE<br />
Begins with Share the Wealth at 12 Noon<br />
Early Birds at 12:30 • Session Begins at 1:00<br />
WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY EVENING<br />
STW Begins at 5:00<br />
Followed by Early Birds at 6:00<br />
and Sessions Begin at 6:30 pm.<br />
Glass Enclosed Smoking Area<br />
& Large No-Smoking Room<br />
DON’T MISS<br />
OUR<br />
PROGRESSIVE<br />
JACKPOTS!<br />
SNACK BAR<br />
9<br />
$250<br />
JACKPOTS<br />
EVERY<br />
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OUR<br />
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Wed 10am-10:30pm • Thu-Sat 3pm-10:30pm<br />
Sun 10am-10:30pm<br />
CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY<br />
1091 W Main Steet • Avon Park, FL 33825<br />
863•453-2727
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 35<br />
BOYS<br />
FROM PAGE 8<br />
to offer. Sandi loves the fact the idea<br />
of being able to carry on the legacy of<br />
Jason’s grandparents, LL and Vivian<br />
Boots. “I think they would be ecstatic,<br />
seeing what he has done with carrying<br />
on their name,” Sandi said. “I mean,<br />
them being the ones that brought it<br />
to this area in the late 1940s and it’s<br />
still going on in their family makes me<br />
smile, thinking they’re looking down,<br />
smiling upon him.”<br />
Florida Boys will also be participating<br />
in the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> this year. This<br />
will be the second time participating for<br />
the company. “We’re very excited the<br />
kids really enjoy being up there with all<br />
the people, and all the people that know<br />
Florida Boys enjoy seeing the kids,” said<br />
Sandi. “Which is fun, keeping it, you<br />
know, family owned and operated.”<br />
Through the many twists, turns, company<br />
names and titles throughout time<br />
of the Boots family, some things may<br />
have changed, but their long-standing<br />
legacy has not. Florida Boys plans to<br />
keep it that way for as long as they can.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Bulbs in a crate at the Florida Boys facility.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
One of the workers at Florida Boys <strong>Caladium</strong>s.<br />
FARM<br />
FROM PAGE 7<br />
hold a festival to promote and celebrate<br />
such an industry, and to bring visitors<br />
into town. With the help of Ann Bond<br />
and Audrey Vickers of the Convention<br />
and Visitors Bureau, they started to<br />
prod surrounding farmers about being<br />
involved.<br />
In 1990, two caladium competitors<br />
decided to unite, to help finally bring<br />
this festival to life. One of those<br />
competitors was Carolyn Phypers of<br />
Happiness Farms. The other was Dot<br />
Bates of Bates Sons and Daughters.<br />
The first <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> was<br />
held at Happiness Farms, where a<br />
dinner was cooked by the Highlands<br />
County Cattlemen and served by the<br />
Cattlewomen, and guests were able<br />
to take bus tours of the fields. The<br />
following year the two families came<br />
together again and were able to expand<br />
the festival to Stuart Park with food,<br />
art, music and of course caladiums. It’s<br />
been held there ever since.<br />
For the past 20 years since the start of<br />
the festival, Happiness Farms has also<br />
donated <strong>Caladium</strong> bulbs around Lake<br />
Placid, to help showcase the beauty of<br />
the plant. With the festival being cancelled<br />
last year due to COVID-19, and<br />
the year prior the farm experiencing<br />
heavy loss due to heavy rain, Danielle<br />
Daum (a third generation farmer) who<br />
manages the office, expressed that<br />
they’re very excited to take part in upcoming<br />
festivities. This year, Happiness<br />
Farms will sell around 28 varieties of<br />
bulbs at the anticipated festival. Some<br />
featured varieties include the popular<br />
Cranberry Star, Fanni Munson and<br />
Florida Moonlight — Darlene’s new<br />
favorite.<br />
One thing is absolute, whatever<br />
customers wanted to converse about,<br />
the team was always happy to hear from<br />
them and to develop relationships. They<br />
hold their customers to such high regards<br />
that even when they locked their<br />
doors in 2020, they instated an honor<br />
system by placing tables out front with<br />
bulbs and a money box for payments.<br />
“We had people come knock on the<br />
door and give us a thumbs up. We had<br />
notes in the box, ‘You saved my sanity,’”<br />
said Phypers.<br />
Much like their patriarch, Paul<br />
Phypers Sr., the legacy at Happiness<br />
Farms still went by his old motto,<br />
“For your satisfaction, enjoyment and<br />
health.”<br />
adno=00067033
36 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
CLASSIC<br />
FROM PAGE 9<br />
And so, you’re breeding for that look,<br />
only with a flatter leaf, so we got two<br />
out there now that we’re evaluating this<br />
year.”<br />
Another impressive feat of Classic<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong>s is in the summer of 2019,<br />
when they teamed up with Lowe’s for an<br />
interior caladium production trial run.<br />
“We developed the recipe and what the<br />
growing practices for these caladiums<br />
would be, to last in the household. We<br />
developed a practice that would keep<br />
them from stretching three or four<br />
weeks and you can enjoy them in your<br />
house, then move them outside and<br />
continue to enjoy them,” explained<br />
Wallace.<br />
Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s has also taken<br />
part of the <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> since<br />
2017, after Hurricane Irma struck and<br />
devastated many of the caladiums. “In<br />
2017, half of the farm was raised plastic<br />
and half was open fields, very similar to<br />
Lake Placid but only on sand,” explained<br />
Hartman. “We had an 85% loss<br />
on our open fields and had a 15% loss<br />
on our raised beds.”<br />
The team at Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s is<br />
proud of the growth and amazing<br />
accomplishments that they have made<br />
since the company started in 2000. And<br />
as Dr. Hartman said, “I think we’ve just<br />
begun.”<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Some of the patents that Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s have accomplished.<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Classics <strong>Caladium</strong>s manages 850 acres of production. This production<br />
puts Classic <strong>Caladium</strong>s as the biggest producers of <strong>Caladium</strong> bulbs in the<br />
world.<br />
Toby the Clown Foundation<br />
Toby The Clown Foundation, Inc. is an out growth of a large number of people<br />
who perform as clowns for educational and entertainment. They do performances at<br />
hospitals, nursing homes, children day care centers, libraries, churches,<br />
shut-ins, Hospice organizations, and schools.<br />
Mission:<br />
It has been proven that humor, smiles, love, and laughter has a definite benefit<br />
to a person’s health and well being. Come join us and help us spread<br />
this clown medicine to all.<br />
America First<br />
Air Conditioning & Heating<br />
Residential • Commercial<br />
Sales • Service • Installation<br />
Best Wishes to the “TOWN OF MURALS”<br />
“CALADIUM CAPITAL OF THE WORLD”<br />
Our Very Own-LAKE PLACID,<br />
For A Very Successful<br />
CALADIUM FESTIVAL!<br />
• Repairs • Air Scrubber<br />
• Air Purification• Ductwork<br />
• Preventative Maintenance<br />
• Quality Without Question<br />
• Over 40 Years Experience<br />
We have the FLAIR for AIR!<br />
adno=00067945<br />
YOU CAN BE<br />
A CLOWN TOO!<br />
Clown classes in Nov. & Feb.<br />
FREE Admission<br />
863-465-2920<br />
109 West Interlake Blvd.<br />
Lake Placid, FL 33852<br />
TobysClownFoundation.org<br />
Museum Hours:<br />
Tues-Fri 12-4<br />
Sat 10-2<br />
Visit our gift shop!<br />
adno=00066515<br />
863-453-4741<br />
www.americafirstac.com<br />
2153 State Road 64 W, Avon Park<br />
Drug Free Workplace<br />
Licensed & Insured # CAC058656
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 37<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Joni Warner shows the free DIY Kraft Kits for Kids section.<br />
ART<br />
FROM PAGE 19<br />
Arts and Crafts Co-Op.”<br />
The Co-Op may no longer present the art competition, but that doesn’t mean<br />
you won’t find them showing their own arts and crafts for the festival. They have<br />
live art demonstrations for festival attendees and sell lunch inside the building.<br />
Sandi Cross, who handles advertising, said she loves the live demonstrations,<br />
AMANDA FERNANDEZ/CORRESPONDENT<br />
Co-Op founder Carol Mills with Co-Op President Joni Warner.<br />
due to the fact that it gets people involved. “It encourages people,” said Cross. “If<br />
somebody that does that at home, they come and see that it’s down here, then<br />
they ask ‘Oh, how can I put my stuff in?’” The building also serves as a rest place<br />
during the festival from the insufferable Florida heat. Jon Warner, president of<br />
the Co-Op, jokingly said people mainly come in for their air conditioning during<br />
festival time.<br />
Whether it’s taking up a workshop, selling or buying caladium-oriented crafts,<br />
being part of the art community or simply looking to escape the heat, the<br />
<strong>Caladium</strong> Arts and Crafts Co-Op may have something for everyone.<br />
HISTORY<br />
FROM PAGE 23<br />
Every year since, the festival has<br />
been held in Stuart Park on Interlake<br />
Boulevard. The festival month was later<br />
changed to August because of hurricane<br />
season and this year moves again to the<br />
last full weekend in July.<br />
“What sustained the festival have<br />
been the profits from selling the potted<br />
plants which Bates grows, and the<br />
caladium bulbs which Happiness Farms<br />
bags up and sells,” said Dot Bates.<br />
“All of that money went back into<br />
the festival to keep it going,” Phypers<br />
added.<br />
The festival has grown and become<br />
popular with locals and vendors. All<br />
proceeds from the festivals, which<br />
included large personal donations,<br />
were used for expenses, saved for<br />
future festivals and have supported<br />
LOCAL<br />
News &<br />
Information<br />
many worthwhile community projects.<br />
One year donations included a $2,000<br />
scholarship and donations to the police<br />
department, schools, the chamber of<br />
commerce, Educational Foundation,<br />
Woman’s Club, Last Chance Ranch,<br />
Masonic Lodge, beautification of Stuart<br />
Park, Town of Lake Placid, and Bradenton<br />
Research Center for a total of $8,200<br />
festival dollars given back to the area.<br />
The success of the festival over the<br />
years has been a commitment of grower<br />
OPENING<br />
SOON<br />
OPEN MON-FRI 9AM-6PM • SAT 9AM-5PM<br />
participation, volunteers, returning<br />
vendors, and the people who come from<br />
everywhere to enjoy the unique flavor of<br />
a small town. Some have decided to come<br />
back and make it their home.<br />
The festival was turned over to the<br />
chamber of commerce in 2007. We are<br />
indebted to the Phypers and Bates families<br />
for their investments, perseverance,<br />
hard work, and dedication to use their<br />
finances, time and expertise to make our<br />
community a better place.<br />
HIGHLANDS COUNTY’S OLDEST & LARGEST HEALTH FOOD STORE!<br />
Now Available<br />
• Online Ordering<br />
• Curbside Pickup<br />
Wheat Free/Gluten Free • Probiotics<br />
Natural & Organic Food • Vitamins<br />
Omega Oils Herbs • Essential Oils • Aroma Therapy<br />
Paleo Foods • Raw Foods • Ionized Alkaline Water<br />
Keto & Immune Support • CBD<br />
Natural Beauty Products • Organic Produce<br />
20% EVERYDAY DISCOUNTS<br />
on all Garden of Life & New Chapter Supplements<br />
OPENING SOON<br />
• Shipping<br />
• Delivery<br />
Opening<br />
Sn<br />
Juice Bar<br />
Visit our website<br />
for details<br />
Foodforthoughthealth.com<br />
Organic Produce<br />
315 US 27 N.<br />
Sebring, FL 33870<br />
Smoothie Juice Bar<br />
Featuring Fresh-made Sandwiches, Soups and Salads.<br />
(863) 385-8995<br />
Loyalty Program<br />
NOW ACCEPTING EBT<br />
OPEN MON-FRI 9AM-6PM<br />
SAT 9AM-5PM<br />
NOW AVAILABLE: ONLINE ORDERING, CURBSIDE PICKUP, SHIPPING AND DELIVERY @ FOODFORTHOUGHTHEALTH.COM<br />
adno=00066514<br />
863-314-6078<br />
Repairs@CPR-Sebring.com<br />
229 US Hwy 27 N. Sebring, FL 33870<br />
adno=00067563<br />
Computer Repair<br />
Cracked Screen
38 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Trailers Heavy Equipment Repairs Hydraulics Crane Rentals (all sizes up to 100 tons)<br />
Custom Steel/Aluminum Steel Fabrications<br />
We Build Them RIGHT.<br />
e Build Them STRONG.<br />
e Build Them TOUGH.<br />
adno=00067422<br />
OUR<br />
MISSION<br />
When you think of<br />
equipment, we want<br />
you the think of King<br />
Equipment! We strive to<br />
offer the highest quality<br />
equipment, best service<br />
and top notch support.<br />
King Equipment is your one stop shop for all your Tractor, Trailer, Attachments<br />
t<br />
and Parts Needs! Stop by our lot today to get everything you need!<br />
6814 US 27 SOUTH • SEBRING, FL 33876<br />
(863) 382-7701<br />
WWW.KINGEQUIPMENT.COM<br />
CALADIUMS<br />
LOVE THE<br />
FLORIDA<br />
HEAT...<br />
FLORIDIANS<br />
DO NOT!<br />
Melissa Ann Messana<br />
REALTOR<br />
mmessana@bhhsflpg.com<br />
15 North Main Ave<br />
Lake Placid, FL 33852<br />
COUPON REQUIRED COUPON REQUIRED COUPON REQUIRED<br />
10% ONE 15%<br />
OFF FREE OFF<br />
Service<br />
Calls Only<br />
Not valid with<br />
any other offer.<br />
Expires 08/31/21<br />
Maintenance<br />
Check on<br />
System<br />
Purchase<br />
Not valid with<br />
any other offer.<br />
Expires 08/31/21<br />
Seniors &<br />
Veterans<br />
Discount<br />
Service Calls Only<br />
Not valid with<br />
any other offer.<br />
Expires 08/31/21<br />
We sell, service and<br />
repair all major<br />
makes and models.<br />
• Heating<br />
• Air Conditioning<br />
• Refrigeration<br />
• Ductless Systems<br />
24 HOUR SERVICE<br />
adno=00068470<br />
Offce (863) 699-0404<br />
Mobile (863) 840-4861<br />
Fax (863) 382-6107<br />
adno=00067943<br />
Residential & Commercial | License #CAC009033 | Insured & Bonded<br />
(863) 465-0009<br />
15 Observation St, Lake Placid, FL 33852
July 21, <strong>2021</strong> 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> 39<br />
ALL<br />
FROM PAGE 24<br />
shopping and restaurants in the area, making living here easy for residents<br />
and visitors alike. Lake Placid is also home to the American Clown Museum<br />
and School, where classes account for more than 1,800 graduates taking<br />
“Smiles, Love and Laughter” back into their communities. In fact, Lake Placid<br />
boasts more clowns per capita than any other town in the world. The Depot<br />
Museum, managed by the Lake Placid Historical Society, is housed in a train<br />
station built in 1927. Both museums operate on donations and boast free<br />
admission.<br />
It’s easy to see why residents love Lake Placid and visitors come back time<br />
after time.<br />
“Sandhill Cranes Dawn Patrol” depicts the area’s well-known cranes in an early morning scene. The mural is on the Lake Placid Women’s Club at Main Street and Park Street.<br />
FILE PHOTO<br />
You Have a Doctor in the Family<br />
Now<br />
Accepting<br />
New<br />
Patients!<br />
Stephen J. Piccione, M.D.<br />
Internal Medicine<br />
Sebring<br />
Vernon E. Murphy, M.D.<br />
Geriatrics, Internal Medicine<br />
Sebring<br />
Same-Day Appointments<br />
Walk-Ins Welcome<br />
Exceptional Patient Experience<br />
Valerie Dorn, APRN<br />
Nurse Practitioner<br />
Sebring<br />
Sunaina Khurana, M.D.<br />
Family Medicine<br />
Avon Park<br />
Annual Wellness Visits<br />
Medicare, Medicare Advantage &<br />
most major insurance accepted<br />
adno=00068066<br />
Connect Today!<br />
Sebring (863) 202-8100<br />
Avon Park (863) 657-0710<br />
2227 US Hwy 27 S., Sebring, FL 33870 | 1659 US Hwy 27 N., Suite 102, Avon Park, FL 33825<br />
www.MillenniumPhysician.com
40 30th Annual <strong>Caladium</strong> <strong>Festival</strong> July 21, <strong>2021</strong><br />
POWER SAVINGS<br />
SAVE BIG on Kubota Lowboy II and LowboyPro generators.<br />
LOW FINANCING ON<br />
LOWBOY GENERATORS.<br />
Save big on select sub-compact and compact tractors.<br />
They have the versatility to handle every job and a wide range<br />
of performance-matched attachments. Kubota tractors under<br />
100 HP are rated #1 for reliability: Stop in for a demo today.<br />
Ridge Equipment Co.<br />
6820 US HIGHWAY 27 NSEBRING, FL 33870<br />
(863)382-4157<br />
Kubota USA.com<br />
*2020 Progressive Farmer Reader Insights Award for Fewest Reported Problems Overall in the category of Small Tractor (Under 100 Horse Power). Award based on<br />
2020 Progressive Farmer Readers Insights Tractors Study. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, <strong>2021</strong>. $0 Down, 0% APR financing for up to 84 months available on purchases<br />
of new Kubota BX2380, LX261 OSU and all L01 series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota<br />
Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Example: 84 monthly payments of $11.90 per $1,000 financed. Customer instant rebates of $700 for L01, $600<br />
for LX261 OSU, $500 for BX2380 are available on qualifying finance or $1,200 L01, $1,000 for LX2610, $800 for BX2380 on cash purchases. Additional instant rebate of<br />
$500 is available with purchase of one new qualifying implement. Some exceptions apply. Offers expire 7 /31 /21. Terms subject to change. This material is for descriptive<br />
purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, disclaimer,<br />
safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your Dealer or KubotaUSA.com.<br />
1KBB03398_Com_TracLBX2360_F3_7-1_0624<br />
Contact Ridge Equipment Co. 6820 US Hwy 27 N., Sebring, FL 33870<br />
(863) 382-4157 for more details.<br />
$<br />
0 0.00 % AS<br />
LOW<br />
AS<br />
A.P.R.<br />
DOWN<br />
FINANCING FOR 24 MONTHS *<br />
*Promotional offer January 1 – December 31, <strong>2021</strong><br />
Offer valid in U.S. only.<br />
Get 0.00% financing for 24 months or 0.90% for 36 months when you<br />
purchase the GL14000. Get 0.90% financing for 24 months or 1.50% for<br />
36 months when you purchase the GL7000 or the GL11000 from a<br />
participating Kubota Construction Equipment dealer*.<br />
• Powered by Kubota diesel engines<br />
• 7-14 kW models available<br />
• Single phase<br />
• Compact design<br />
• Easy one-side maintenance<br />
* 0% down, 0.00% A.P.R. financing for 24 months or 0% down, 0.90% A.P.R. financing for 36 months on<br />
purchases of select new Kubota GL14000 equipment. 0% down, 0.90% A.P.R. financing for 24 months or 0.0% down, 1.50% A.P.R. financing for 36 months on purchases of select new Kubota GL7000 or GL11000 <br />
equipment from participating U.S. Kubota Construction Equipment dealers. In-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.: subject to credit approval. Some exceptions <br />
apply. Offer expires 12/31/2020. Terms subject to change. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentiveoffer and product information, consult your local Kubota Construction Equipment Dealer.<br />
©2020 Kubota Engine America Corporation. All rights reserved.<br />
Law Office of<br />
Patricia Lynch Franklin, P.A.<br />
(863) 304-8016<br />
Attorney at Law<br />
Licensed in Florida and Louisiana<br />
• Family Law<br />
• Small Business Law<br />
• Employment Law<br />
adno=00067521<br />
1570 Lakeview Dr, Ste 1 • Sebring, Florida 33870 • PFranklinLaw@gmail.com