In Highlands County, BFAM Services Inc. stands out for more than its spotless work — it’s their heart for people. This faith-based, family-run company believes every job is an act of service to both God and community.
“Welookateveryjobasanopportunityto
serve,”saidco-ownerKatrinaFolkner.
From local churches and government offices to Lakeview Memorial Gardens and veterans organizations, BFAM’s work blends professional excellence with purpose. Their name — By Faith And Motivation — says it all: integrity, reliability, and pride in serving others.
For more information, contact Katrina Folkner at (765) 278-5809 or bfamlandscaping@gmail.com.
a Hometown Publication with Heart, Faith, and Purpose It’s good to be home.
ade C ade ago, I lived right here in Highlands County a place that left an impression on my heart through its people, its values, and its deep sense of community.
During that time, I coached youth cheer in Avon Park, where our team proudly won the state championship in 2015. Those years working with local youth taught me the power of teamwork, mentorship, and community spirit lessons that still guide me today. Life eventually led me west to California, where I joined Pulse Media, a publication built on the belief that good news still matters. Three years later, that mission has brought me full circle, back to the Heartland of Florida.This August, Pulse Media officially expanded to the East Coast, choosing Highlands County as our first location beyond the West. And it wasn’t a difficult decision. This county is full of stories that inspire from the veterans who have served our nation, to the seniors whose wisdom continues to shape our communities, to the families and small businesses who make this area thrive.
At Pulse of the Heartland, we are a faith-based publication with a simple goal: to uplift, inform, and connect. We believe in shining light on the people who make a difference those who serve, volunteer, mentor, and give back. Through our printed editions, digital platform, and social media presence, we’ll share stories that remind us why community still matters.Joining our team is Anthony Folkner, who will be heading our marketing department. Anthony has lived in Highlands County for more than ten years, is a U.S. Navy Veteran, and serves as a local pastor. His heart for people and commitment to community perfectly align with our mission.
If you enjoy writing or know someone with a story worth sharing about Highlands County’s history, a beloved senior, or a veteran who deserves to be honored — we’d love to hear from you.
I’m proud to call Highlands County home again and ready to serve not just Avon Park, but this community as a whole.
This is your hometown. Your stories. Your paper.
Built with faith, gratitude, and heart.
Tiffanie nicole General Manager, Editor, Journalist
anthony Folkner Marketing Manager, Photographer, Journalist
tray Folkner Sebring High School senior Youth Correspondent
HaV e Y ou e V er t H oug H t about what would happen if people forgot what freedom really means? Turning Point USA is a group that helps students understand why liberty and limited government matter. It was started by Charlie Kirk in 2012 and focuses on teaching young people about free markets and being responsible citizens.
These days, students hear so many different opinions that it can be hard to know what’s true. Turning Point USA helps clear that up by educating and inspiring young leaders to speak out. Without help, many students might never realize how powerful their voices really are.
When people support Turning Point USA, it’s like planting seeds of freedom that grow into strong leaders for the future.
Because of that support, more students can learn that their ideas matter and that they can make a difference. Wouldn’t it be great to see a generation of confident, informed young people ready to stand up for what’s right?
Now is the time to get involved! Everyone can help by donating, volunteering, or simply telling others about Turning Point USA. Even a small action can start something big and shape future leaders. Don’t let freedom fade away, help keep it alive for the next generation. Together, we can inspire students to stand up for what’s right. Visit Turning Point USA’s website today and take your first step toward making a real difference.
Turning Point USA stands for faith, freedom, and love of country. The organization’s website says Charlie Kirk
By Paige Folkner
believed America’s future depends on raising up a generation who will NEVER SURRENDER. I want to be part of that generation! Stand with Charlie and make his belief a reality. Charlie Kirk’s life work will never be forgotten by this generation. He is an inspiration to so many young people, and I’m grateful for that.
WE ARE CHARLIE KIRK!
Respect Went Out the Door
Respect used to mean something.
it Was s H o W n to parents, grandparents, children, brothers, sisters — and especially to veterans. Somewhere along the way, we lost that.
People got caught up chasing what everyone else has, taking instead of giving. So many demand respect but forget that respect has to be given to be received. Everything goes hand in hand.
Veterans already carry heavy burdens most will never understand — they deserve our gratitude and respect. The same goes for the homeless and those who struggle quietly. You never know what someone’s been through. Sometimes, just sitting down and listening can mean the world. They can teach you more than you expect.
When I was growing up, we were taught
respect or we got a whoopin’. Things are different now. But before you disrespect someone, ask yourself: Is that how I’d want to be treated?
It’s up to each of us to do better. Hold a door open. Be kind. That small act might save a life. A little care, compassion, and respect can make a big difference and it all starts with you.
Self-respect matters too. It shapes how you see the world and how you let the world treat you. Times are tough, but stay positive. Respect yourself, and you’ll start to see life in a new light.
You’re worth it — even in a world that sometimes feels like it’s lost its mind.
Be the person you’ve always wanted to be by choosing respect.
By Johnny Abshire
Take the time to see your grandparents, parents, siblings, or friends. Sit down and talk. Tell them you love them. You never know what tomorrow brings.
Teach kids to respect others — they learn by watching us. They’re the next generation, and it’s our job to set the example.
That’s just my opinion — I’m not politically correct.
But I still believe respect is something we can bring back… one person at a time.
Faith in the Heartland
Celebrating churches, faith, and fellowship across our community
A Monthly Devotional You Can Live Out
November 2025 — “Gratitude That Bridges Hearts”
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18
as tH anksgi V ing season settles across the Heartland, we’re reminded that gratitude is more than words at a dinner table it’s a daily practice that changes how we see the world and one another. This month, hang this devotional where you’ll see it often on your fridge, mirror, or desk and let thankfulness guide your thoughts and actions.
WEEK 1: The Heart of Thanksgiving
Focus: Gratitude begins when we notice the blessings already around us.
Mon: Thank God for something small you’ve overlooked.
Tue: Write down three blessings that came disguised as challenges.
Wed: Tell someone you appreciate them and why.
Thu: Pause before a meal to express true thanks.
Fri: Read Psalm 100 and list what makes you joyful.
Weekend Thought: Gratitude turns what we have into enough.
WEEK 2: Washing Away Negativity
Focus: Thankfulness can cleanse the heart and renew the mind.
Mon: Begin your day with “thank You”
before any complaint.
Tue: Forgive someone quietly even if they never know it.
Wed: Replace one negative thought with a thankful one.
Thu: Pray for someone who tests your patience.
Fri: End your day by listing one good thing that happened.
Weekend Thought: Gratitude is spiritual soap for the soul.
WEEK 3: Building Bridges
Focus: Gratitude connects hearts across differences.
Mon: Thank a veteran, teacher, or first responder.
Tue: Share a meal or story with someone different from you.
Wed: Listen with the intent to understand, not reply.
Thu: Offer encouragement to someone struggling.
Fri: Be intentionally kind to a stranger.
Weekend Thought: Gratitude is the universal language of love.
WEEK 4: Living Thanksgiving
Focus: Gratitude becomes powerful when it becomes daily.
Mon: Begin your morning with a prayer of thanks.
Tue: Keep a “pocket praise list” for the day.
Wed: Tell a loved one what they mean to you.
Thu: Reflect on one way you’ve seen good come from hardship.
Fri: Share your thankfulness publicly or online.
Weekend Thought: Thanksgiving isn’t a holiday, it’s a way of life.
Closing Reflection
Lord, open our hearts to see Your blessings in every moment. Help us let gratitude wash away fear and resentment, so we can become peacemakers in our homes and our communities.
Amen.
Get Involved!
We’d love to see how you live out this month’s devotional!
Send us photos of your family’s gratitude projects, decorated fridge devotionals, or acts of kindness in action.
Share your story or note to the editor: tiffanie@pulsemedia.info
Tag us on social media using #FaithInTheHeartland
Together, we can inspire one another one thankful heart at a time
Gratitude Beyond Numbers: A Thanksgiving Reflection
By Anthony Folkner | The Pulse of the Heartland
For man Y Y ears , my family’s Thanksgiving table was a large gathering of cousins, aunts, uncles, and my grandma before she passed away. But about a decade ago, when we moved to Florida, that tradition changed. Our Thanksgiving became less about the number of chairs around the table and more about opening our doors to anyone who didn’t have a place to go.
Over the past ten years, we’ve made it a tradition to cook enough food to feed not just our family, but anyone in our community who might need a seat at the table. We’ve welcomed veterans, new neighbors, friends who’ve gone through a rough patch, and sometimes just our own little family. Thanksgiving, for us, isn’t about how many people gather — it’s about the spirit of gratitude that fills the room. It’s about making genuine connections and sharing what we have with others, whether the table is full or small.
In a world that can often feel divided or weighed down by negativity, this mindset
of gratitude keeps our hearts open and our spirits lifted. The fact that we have a home where we can welcome others isn’t something we take for granted. It’s a blessing we’re thankful for every year. And in many ways, this tradition of opening our doors at Thanksgiving has become a reminder that gratitude isn’t confined to a single day. It’s something we can live out daily — through kindness, generosity, and the willingness to share what we have. Whether it’s a simple meal with a neighbor or inviting someone who might otherwise spend the day alone,
those small acts of hospitality can leave a lasting impact.
As Thanksgiving approaches, I encourage you to take a look around and see who might need a seat at your table — literally or figuratively. Gratitude isn’t just about counting blessings; it’s about extending them. Whether your gathering is for two or twenty, the love and connection you share can turn any meal into a feast. May this Thanksgiving remind us that it’s not about how many people we gather, but about the love and gratitude we bring when we do.
A Day to Remember: Why Veterans Day Matters More Than Ever
By Anthony Folkner | The
For me, Veterans d aY isn’t just another holiday on the calendar. It’s a day woven into the fabric of my family’s history — a legacy of service that spans five generations. As a veteran myself, some of my most cherished Veterans Day memories are those moments when I’ve watched my own children take part in school programs, proudly honoring those who served. I’ve stood alongside my grandfather on those days, knowing that my brother, my father, and generations before us have shared the same bond of service. Seeing that pride reflected in my children’s eyes is perhaps the most impactful part of Veterans Day for me. It’s a reminder that honoring our veterans is not just about the past — it’s about teaching the next generation the value of gratitude and respect.
But there’s another side to this day that I’ve come to understand through conversations with fellow veterans. Many
veterans, especially those who served in Vietnam, don’t always feel comfortable being recognized. It’s not out of guilt or shame, but out of a sense of duty. We served because it was what we were called to do. Sometimes hearing “thank you for your service” can feel a bit complicated for those who view their service as simply fulfilling a responsibility, rather than seeking recognition.
That’s why it’s especially meaningful for me to see Vietnam veterans at these events. Many of them weren’t welcomed home warmly when they returned. They didn’t have a choice in serving, and now, as a community, we have the chance to finally say “welcome home” and thank them for their sacrifice. It’s a powerful reminder that Veterans Day is not just about those of us who served recently, but about honoring all who wore the uniform, especially those who never got the recognition they deserved.
In Highlands County, Florida, our big cities come together each year for a Veterans Day parade in the county seat of Sebring. It’s more than just a parade; it’s a car show, a gathering, and a celebration that ends at our new Medal of Honor Park. This park is a long-held dream for our community, a project over a decade in the making, and this year we finally see it come to fruition. I hope you can join us there to wave your flags, cheer for our veterans, and learn about the heroes
who’ve received our nation’s highest honors.
But while I hope you can be part of these community events, remember that the simplest gestures matter just as much. If you know someone who served, a handshake, a hug, or a heartfelt message of thanks can mean the world. Personal acknowledgment of service touches a veteran’s heart in a way that no public ceremony ever could. So whether you join us at the parade or simply take a moment to reach out to a veteran you know, your gratitude makes a difference.
Pulse of the Heartland
A Memorial of Faith, Family, and Freedom: Honoring Charlie Kirk
WH en t H e C all C ame late tH ursdaY that I had been chosen to cover Charlie Kirk’s memorial service, I felt both humbled and determined. Out of the entire nation, only 300 members of the media were selected, and Pulse Media was honored to hold three of those seats. For a small but growing paper, that alone felt historic.
The journey from Central Florida to Phoenix was not simple — no flights were available from Orlando or Tampa, so I joined my brother and 17-year-old nephew Tray for a midnight drive to Miami. As I watched Tray sit quietly beside his father, it struck me how fitting this moment was: Charlie Kirk had dedicated his life to urging young men to embrace faith, marriage, and responsibility. On that drive, I witnessed those values already being absorbed into the next generation.
By 4 a.m. Sunday, thousands were already lined up at the stadium. At the very front, a father and his 10-year-old son had camped in line for more than 72
hours. Their devotion showed the depth of Kirk’s impact — fathers and sons standing together, bound by shared conviction.
Inside, the empty seats soon gave way to a living sea of red, white, and blue. Families filed in, children clutched their parents’ hands, and veterans stood in salute. As Brandon Lake’s worship soared through the arena, grief gave way to hope, and strangers became a congregation.
The most powerful moment came when Mrs. Erika Kirk spoke. With grace and faith, she reminded everyone that Charlie’s mission was never about status, but about
By Tiffanie Nicole
people — especially young men. She spoke of forgiveness, even extending it to the young man responsible for Charlie’s death. Her words silenced thousands, planting seeds of faith and strength in the next generation.
Speaker after speaker described Charlie’s life of service: a giver, not a taker; a leader since boyhood; a man who sacrificed recognition to see lives changed. He lived for faith, family, and freedom — and his legacy was written in the faces of those gathered.
As the service closed in gospel song, the message was clear: honoring Charlie Kirk means living out the values he embodied. For me, the miles traveled and the blisters earned were worth every step. For Tray, it was more — it was a charge to carry forward the lessons of faith, family, and forgiveness into his own future.
Charlie Kirk’s life was cut short, but his impact is timeless. His memorial was not only a farewell — it was a reminder that true strength comes from God, and that every generation has a calling to live boldly in that truth.
TO READ THE FULL STORY GO TO: https://issuu.com/pulsecustommagazines
A Farewell of Faith and Courage
By Anthony Folkner
as i sat among t H e C ro W d, I noticed a woman’s jacket sleeve reach out, trembling, to squeeze her husband’s arm. She turned to find her daughter doing the same, both of them holding back tears until they finally embraced. In that moment, the memorial was no longer a headline, a program, or even a stage. It was a family mourning, a family whose grief made the loss real to everyone who witnessed it.
This is the weight of senseless violence: it does not take from a movement or an institution, but from flesh and blood — from those who love and remain. And yet, even amid the sorrow, there was something undeniable in the air. Songs rose, voices prayed, and speakers pointed not to despair, but to a higher hope.
One theme echoed again and again: courage rooted in faith. Pastor Rob McCoy recalled Charlie’s passion for truth, and Frank Turek reminded the crowd of
the mission Charlie lived by: “To know Jesus, and to make Him known.” Former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard described him as a “warrior who fought with words,” urging those gathered to live with the same boldness and integrity.
The reminder was simple yet profound: the light of conviction cannot be extinguished, even by tragedy. Ben Carson drew from history and scripture to underline the point — that standing firm in what we believe is what makes this truly “the home of the brave.” And throughout the day, one verse seemed to linger over the crowd: “I have
fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). It was not a rally. It was not a spectacle. It was a farewell — one marked by tears, by stories, and by a shared resolve to carry forward the faith and courage Charlie professed.
And in the midst of all of it stood Erika Kirk, whose quiet strength and presence reminded everyone that this was not only the loss of a leader, but the loss of a husband and a father.
TO READ THE FULL STORY GO TO: https://issuu.com/pulsecustommagazines
Remembering Charlie Kirk
on s undaY, s e P tember 21st, nearly 90,000 people gathered in Glendale, Arizona— filling State Farm Stadium and the Desert Diamond Arena—while millions more joined online to honor the life of Charlie Kirk. Worship led by Brandon Lake, Chris Tomlin, Phil Wickham, Cody Carnes, and Kari Jobe Carnes set a moving tone, with tens of thousands lifting their voices in praise.
Pastor Rob McCoy, whom Charlie once called “America’s pastor,” opened by reflecting on their time in Korea supporting persecuted Christians. He reminded the crowd that Charlie’s mission was never politics for its own sake but an on-ramp to Jesus. McCoy recounted, “Charlie looked at politics as an on-ramp to Jesus; he knew that if he could get all of you rowing in the streams of liberty, you'd come to its source, and that's the lord.”
Several Turning Point USA members shared how Charlie personally mentored them. Stacy Sheridan recalled the Kirk family’s support during her husband’s passing, underscoring Charlie’s compassion as both a leader and friend. Tucker Carlson described the service as a revival more than a memorial, saying,
“Whatever happens next in America, I hope it’s in this direction, because God is here.” He emphasized Charlie’s conviction that politics could never replace the transforming power of the gospel.
Andrew Colvet, Turning Point USA spokesperson and Charlie Kirk Show producer, recounted how deeply Charlie cared for his audience, even responding to emails personally. He described their campus debates as “tent revivals,” where faith and truth intersected.
Apologist Frank Turek reflected on Charlie’s sudden death, assuring that he was instantly in heaven—not because of his goodness but because of Christ’s sacrifice. He recalled Charlie’s conviction that “the purpose of life was to know Jesus and make him known, to make heaven crowded.”
Senator JD Vance declared that the assassin expected a funeral but instead witnessed a revival. He called Charlie a bringer of truth who shaped American history through his courage and kindness. Vance reminded the audience that Charlie would want us to “put on the full armor of God and fight for the truth.”
President Trump called Charlie “America’s greatest evangelist,” promising that his
By Tray Folkner
voice would echo throughout history. He praised Charlie’s devotion to faith, his humility, and his outsized influence on politics and culture.
The most powerful moment came from Mrs Erika Kirk, Charlie’s wife. She thanked the crowd and spoke of his passion for God and people. In a moment of grace, she publicly forgave her husband’s killer, declaring, “The answer to hate is not hate… the answer is love. Love for our enemies and love for those who persecute us.” Erika pledged to continue Charlie’s work as CEO of Turning Point USA, ensuring open debates and campus outreach would expand, not diminish.
The memorial revealed Charlie Kirk as more than a political figure. To those who gathered, he was a husband, friend, mentor, evangelist, and ultimately a servant of Christ. Through testimony after testimony, one theme emerged: Charlie used every platform he had to point others to Jesus. What was intended to be a time of mourning became a call to revival. In the words of many who spoke, Charlie Kirk’s light has not been extinguished—it now burns brighter.
TO READ THE FULL STORY GO TO: https://issuu.com/pulsecustommagazines
Wreaths Across America: Honoring Heroes at Lakeview’s Memorial Gardens
By The
ea CH d e C ember, Sebring’s Lakeview Memorial Gardens Cemetery becomes a living tribute to service and sacrifice as wreaths of remembrance are placed on the graves of local veterans. The annual Wreaths Across America ceremony unites the community under one mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach.
This national movement began in 1992 with one Maine family’s simple wish to honor fallen heroes. Today, it spans more than 4,000 locations across the country including right here in Sebring, Florida where volunteers gather to ensure no veteran is ever forgotten.
Locally, Lakeview Memorial Gardens is the only cemetery in Highlands County that participates in the Wreaths Across America program. The ceremony is proudly organized through partnerships between Lakeview Memorial Gardens, DAV Chapter 49, the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA), American Legion Post 69, VFW Post 4300, and the Highlands County Veterans Council.
Among these dedicated partners, American Legion Post 69 plays a leading role, spearheading much of the fundraising that makes the program possible. Through tireless community outreach and sponsorship drives, Post 69 ensures that every wreath laid in Sebring carries with it the love and gratitude of a community that remembers its heroes.
Equally vital is the support of the Sebring High School JROTC, whose cadets assist with organizing, transporting, and placing wreaths throughout the cemetery. Their involvement reflects the true spirit of Wreaths Across America — teaching younger generations the value of remembrance and service.
“This isn’t just about laying wreaths,” said one local organizer. “It’s about teaching our youth what it means to serve — and showing every veteran’s family that their loved one is never forgotten.”
Coming Together for a Common Cause
On National Wreaths Across America Day, this year falling on Saturday, December 14, 2025, at noon, volunteers of all ages will gather at Lakeview Memorial Gardens to say the names of each fallen service member aloud as a wreath is placed in their honor. Veterans’ groups, local youth, church members, and Gold Star families will stand side by side in solemn respect. Each wreath sponsorship costs $17, and all proceeds stay within the local program to ensure every veteran’s
grave in Sebring receives this symbol of gratitude. Residents can sponsor a wreath or volunteer at:
www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/FLMGCS
Cemetery Code: FLMGCS – Lakeview Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Sebring, FL For local information, contact Lakeview Memorial Gardens at 863-385-4942
As the flags wave and the bugle plays “Taps,” the wreaths tell a silent story of courage, loss, and unwavering love of country. Through the combined efforts of American Legion Post 69, Sebring High School JROTC, DAV Chapter 49, DAVA, and countless volunteers, that promise endures Sebring remembers. Sebring honors. Sebring teaches.Because freedom is never free and those who served will never be forgotten.
Pulse of the Heartland team
Honoring Service: Highlands County Veterans Council Awards 2025
By Anthony Folkner | The Pulse of the Heartland
tH is Y ear’s Hig H lands Count Y Veterans
Coun C il aWards luncheon was a heartfelt afternoon event dedicated to honoring both veterans and community members who have made outstanding contributions. At the forefront of the ceremony, Minister Herbert Sykes was named Veteran of the Year 2025, while Katherine Cook received the NonVeteran of the Year award. The council also honored Denise Williams with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her long-standing dedication to veteran causes, and Sheriff Paul Blackman was recognized for his ongoing support of the veteran community. In addition to these top honors, numerous other awards were presented to local heroes and supporters. Each award celebrated the unique ways in which individuals have contributed to the wellbeing of our veterans and our community at large.
Below is a special recognition list of all the honorees by their respective organizations:
Award Recipients by Organization
Post 25: Veteran: Bob Simmons | Non-Veteran: Roger Lindberg
Post 69: Veteran: Roy Tefft | Non-Veteran: Sharie Scott
Amvets: Veteran: MSG Richard L. Frantz, ret. | Non-Veteran: Shirley Wright
Battle of Bands: Veteran: Ryan Hartwig | Non-Veteran: Daniel Doyon
MOAA: Veteran: Fred Carino | Non-Veteran: Peggy Brooks
Reflections: Veteran: Jim Bacon | Non-Veteran: Terry Wright
Sea Service Museum: Veteran: Paul Brittain | Non-Veteran: Gloria Bent
VVA: Veteran: Fred Norton | Non-Veteran: Becky Forbes
VSO: Veteran: Dianna Smith | Non-Veteran: Pam Poimeau
Elks: Veteran: Richard "Dick" Barney | Non-Veteran: Josephine "Jo" House
GFWC Woman’s Club: Karen Baran
Medal of Honor: Veteran: Shawn Nickell | Non-Veteran: Bob Van Etveldt
NAACP: Veteran: Minister Herbert Sykes | Non-Veteran: Bonita Sykes
PTSD Group A.P.: Jesse Zambrana
As we celebrate these honorees, let us remember that gratitude is an action we can all take. Congratulations to all, and thank you for making our community stronger.
For more photos, go to www.facebook. com/PULSEoftheHeartland
Sounds like a toe-tappin’ good time! Line Dancing in the Recreation Hall every Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 12pm — a perfect way to kick up your heels, meet new friends, and get moving. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just curious to try, come get your dance on and enjoy the rhythm.
DAVA’s Roadkill Dinner: Fun, Laughter, and a $2,000 Success
WH at do Y ou get WH en Y ou mix bingo , a dash of humor, and a whole lot of community spirit? At the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA) Roadkill Dinner, you get a fundraising success wrapped in laughter and goodwill.
Held at the VVA building, the event was a light-hearted night filled with joking, community camaraderie, and a unique twist on bingo. Players shouted “Driving,” “Swerving,” and finally “Roadkill!” as they claimed their prizes—each one a mystery
meat bundle revealed only after their win.
One of the night’s highlights was the youngest player, a spirited 12-yearold, who made everyone jump with her enthusiastic “Roadkill!” shout as she claimed one of the last prizes. With the energy of a middle schooler at a home football game, she brought a wave of laughter and smiles to everyone there.
The success of the evening was truly a community effort. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the brother organization to the DAVA, played a key role by securing a local meat sponsor, ensuring that all
By
proceeds went straight to the cause. Barefoot Ministries stepped in to provide the PA system, saving on rental costs. And of course, the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) graciously hosted the event, making it a true community collaboration.
In the end, the Roadkill Dinner raised an impressive $2,000 for a great cause, proving that a little humor and a lot of heart can go a long way. It’s a reminder that when a community comes together, everyone wins—sometimes with a surprise steak dinner in hand!
Anthony Folkner | The Pulse of the Heartland
Spotlight on Faith: Barefoot Ministry — Church Without Walls
By Anthony Folkner | The Pulse of the Heartland
in t H is mont H ’s l o C al Fait H g rou P sP otlig H t, we turn our attention to Barefoot Ministry, a growing community of believers who have chosen to step outside the traditional church walls to bring Christ directly to the people.
Barefoot Ministry was born out of a simple but powerful truth: getting people
into a church building doesn’t fix them but helping them find Christ does. With this purpose at its heart, the ministry focuses on meeting people where they are in laundromats, gas stations, grocery stores, and street corners, showing that God’s love reaches far beyond the walls of any building.
Each outreach reflects a deep commitment to compassion in action. Whether offering a warm meal, a listening ear, or something as practical as clean socks or a full tank of gas, Barefoot Ministry reminds people that they matter and that they are seen.
The ministry also gathers for Thursday evening services and Sunday Bible study dinners, carefully planned not to compete with local churches but to complement them. Their goal is to support and encourage, not to separate or divide. By reaching those who may never step inside a traditional sanctuary, Barefoot Ministry helps bridge the gap between faith and
everyday life.
Over the years, they’ve carried this message across Florida, up through Indiana, and even to the Florida Keys, hosting men’s and women’s meetings, community outreach events, and spiritual gatherings designed to bring hope where it’s needed most.
Barefoot Ministry continues to grow, through simple, genuine love — the kind that reminds us all what it truly means to walk by faith and serve others with open hands and open hearts.
FolknReal: Turning Chaos into Purpose in the World of Social Media
By Anthony Folkner | The Pulse of the Heartland
in a W orld WH ere so C ial media often feels like noise, one Florida- and Kentucky-based family brand is finding a way to turn it into music. FolknReal, the brainchild of Anthony and Katrina Folkner, is redefining what it means to be “real” online — building a network of creators who share authentic, faith-centered, and familyrooted content that celebrates both chaos and connection.
At its core, FolknReal is more than a social brand — it’s a creative ecosystem. Through humor, honesty, and heart, the Folkner family and their growing circle of creators use platforms like TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and X to document everyday life, from family projects to small-town entrepreneurship. What began as a simple way to share their journey has grown into a collaborative media network that helps others do the same.
“We wanted to create a space where real people could share real stories — not the filtered, polished kind, but the ones that
show what faith, family, and perseverance actually look like,” said Anthony Folkner, known online as ToeKneeRay13.
The FolknReal brand now supports multiple branches of creative expression — including FolknReal Sweet (freezedried candy and content creation), FolknFun (community events and family outreach), and FolknFounders, a grassroots membership campaign that helps fund rural projects, local creators, and future small-business ventures under the FolknReal umbrella.
But the heart of the operation remains its digital creator community. FolknReal provides social media strategy, collaboration opportunities, and
mentorship to local content creators who want to grow their voice while keeping their values intact. Members of the FolknReal Collective share resources, cross-promote content, and receive hands-on help with editing, engagement, and storytelling — something many small creators struggle to find without big-budget backing.
“Not everyone wants to be an influencer,” said Katrina Folkner. “Some people just want to make a difference, tell their story, or make others laugh — and that’s enough. FolknReal gives them the tools and community to do that.”
From viral videos and small-town spotlights to behind-the-scenes looks at faith, family, and farm life, FolknReal’s approach is refreshing part entertainment, part encouragement. It’s proof that social media can be used for good: to build bridges, grow dreams, and remind people that authenticity still matters. As FolknReal expands its reach, its mission remains the same — to help everyday people turn chaos into purpose, one post at a time.
