The city of Sebring should consider the disbanding or preservation of the Sebring Historical Preservation Commission. As a preservationist and former chairman of the SHPC, I admit that the organization is totally ineffective and no longer preserving the historical buildings in compliance with the state guidelines and the city of Sebring ordinance. With exception to Lorrie Smith, chairperson, the commissioners would rather bend or ignore the guidelines. I have heard numerous times the members state that proper restoration is too costly, so they allow a building to be renovated instead. ...more

January 9, 2009

Memories crumbled into dust Monday night as heavy machinery knocked down the former Gary Adult High School, crushing the hopes of residents who dreamed a miracle might still save the landmark. ...more

September 9, 2008

Memories crumbled into dust tonight as heavy machinery knocked down the former Gary Adult High School, crushing the hopes of residents who dreamed a miracle might still save the landmark. ...more

September 8, 2008

SEBRING — The city of Sebring will have to make do with $1.7 million less in revenues, but the city nevertheless has budgeted donations to the Children's Museum, Safe House, the Historical Preservation Commission, the Boys and Girls Clubs and the July 4 fireworks celebration. But about those fireworks. City Councilor Margie Rhoades isn't pleased that the Sebring Community Redevelopment Agency has donated $5,000, and she wants the council to withdraw its planned $5,000 gift. "Instead of spending $10,000 on fireworks, I think we should spend more on the Children's Museum and the Boys and Girls Club," said Rhoades, in a budget hearing Wednesday. Another hearing is scheduled June 17. The city is planning to contribute $10,000 to the Children's Museum and $50,000 to the Boys and Girls Club. ...more

June 13, 2008