FOCUS Winter Haven 04-07 by Floyd Publications

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FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

Table of Contents

Volume 4 Issue 7 • December 2011

focuswinterhaven.com

10 13

07-08 Local

In this season of giving, Focus features stories on the outreaches to help those in need, specifically Street Angels Help Hunger and Meals on Wheels.

10 Feature

The Lake Wales Little Theatre is an institution in Polk County and beyond. For more than 30 years, the all-volunteer community theatre group has provided high quality, live entertainment. And the programs for teens and children will ensure that the tradition continues.

14 Spotlight interview

Rob Fritz is a highly respected teacher at Winter Haven High School and the president of Lake Wales Little Theatre. Enjoy his passion for all aspects of performance and live stage productions, especially when they involve comedy and the younger generations.

17 business profile

Deli Delicacies Bakery and Bistro is a gem in the specialty food arena. For 26 years, the business has been proud to serve delicious food and provide custom catering and specialty cake creations for all occasions, especially at holiday time.

20 dining profile

If steak, seafood, and live music are your thing, chances are that Norby’s Steak and Seafood and Al’s Place in Lake Wales is the place for you. Owner Wayne Finger has brought a new energy to these community mainstays.

on the cover

Rob Fritz, President of the Lake Wales Little Theatre

FOCUSwinterhaven.com Full digital version of the current and past magazines

18 - City of Winter Haven

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22 - Event Calendar

Extended features, interviews, dining profiles and business profiles with extra content Community news updates

Letter From The Publisher Hopefully, your family enjoyed some scrumptious food and created some new memories during the Thanksgiving break. The Floyds sure did. DeDe and I took our sons Zane and Zy on a traditional family trip to the Tennessee mountains. We thoroughly enjoyed the fun that an 11-year-old and a 4-year-old can muster up. Their energy keeps us in shape.

Dear Family Member, With the Christmas season upon us, we at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home and Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens would like you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this holiday season.

We also used the time to look back and to plan ahead. In other words, we reflected and we projected - for our own family and for our Focus family. Wonder if you knew that you are always on our minds. Stepping away for a bit can be a good thing. What we learned, in addition to how much we have to be thankful for, is that time spent can’t be replaced. What we plan now is to make the very best of the time still ahead of us.

We want to cordially invite you to our annual Candlelight Remembrance Service, Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 6:00pm to honor your loved one. We look forward to a beautiful service with a holiday message and songs. We will have complimentary candles available before and during the service for placement at your loved one’s resting place. If you have any questions or concerns, please call 863.967.8558 and a Family Service Counselor will be available to speak with you. Come and experience the breathtaking light of our candles and the peace this gathering will offer to you and your family.

In this month’s Spotlight interview with Rob Fritz, a Winter Haven High School teacher and President of the Lake Wales Little Theatre, he shares how important those family connections can be when he speaks admiringly of his wife Audrey and daughter Holly. Family time is always a good investment. Family time will build those character traits in our sons that will help them be solid citizens. Family time is irreplaceable and priceless. This month, we hope you will have plenty of time to enjoy your family and your friends. We encourage you to carve out a little for quiet moments, too, because reflection is good for the soul. We also hope you’ll read and reflect on the local stories, on the good things happening in the eastern Polk County area, and on The Reason for the Season.

OTT LAUGHLIN FUNERAL HOME Sincerely, Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home and CELEBRATING 76 YEARS OF SERVICE Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens

EDDIE G. ALLEN, MANAGER 645 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE, WINTER HAVEN (863) 293-2133

“We’ll be there when you need us.”

For it is, after all, a time when the greatest gift ever given helps us to appreciate and reflect God’s love.

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From our family to yours, we wish you an incredible Christmas and a great start to 2012.

EDDIE G. ALLEN, MANAGER 645 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE

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Licensed territories are available. We are looking to expand the family and are looking for motivated individuals to join our award winning team. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine contact Mike Floyd at 813.707.8783 ext 26. FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

Local » Focus

Street Angels volunteers and clients could use your help and donations to feed many in need this Christmas: Back row L-R are Joey McCutcheon, Betty Oswalt, Glenda Hanley, Charles Tucker, Bill Crisp, and founder Skyra (Kim) Norris. Kneeling in front are Sarah Hughs, Judy Cardazza and Alli Humphries.

Street Angels Help Hunger C Written By: Cheryl Johnston | Photo courtesy of Skyra Norris

hristmas is the season when people especially open their hearts and wallets to give more generously, because long ago, heaven touched earth with the greatest love gift ever.

The “Street Angels Help Hunger” organization desperately needs your help. The non-profit volunteer organization reaches out to meet the needs of an increasing number of people out of work and unable to feed their families. Generous citizens can drop off canned goods at the Street Angels facility, 628 West Central Avenue in Winter Haven or at the Big Lots and Save-a-Lot collection points. According to founder, Skrya (Kim) Norris, the need is especially great for “peanut butter, juice, and soup, so the children can have healthier meals at home.” Folks can also donate money. In addition to the food pantry, Street Angels assists with emergency needs involving bus passes, medical co-pays, and utilities. Groceries are

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

distributed on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Thursday evenings, a hot meal is served to approximately 150 people.

Street Angels could also use a larger building for the Thursday night outreach. Right now they have to set up tents outside to seat more people than the inside will hold.

Ten years ago, Norris founded Street Angels because she couldn’t bear the thought of so many people going without food in her community. Her father, Bud Laukhus, taught her some life-directing lessons about sharing before his sudden Thanksgiving-season death at 44 of a brain aneurysm. As a young girl, Skyra’s dad actions emphasized, “To give is always better than to receive.” Regularly, the two would place bags of groceries at the door of homes where they knew families had need. Then they waited in their truck to catch a glimpse of the people who discovered the surprise. She explained, “I will always remember the light in my father’s eyes when he saw their joy.”

and you can, too

Norris picked up the mantle and took her daughter Shannon on delivery trips like her father had modeled. Skrya recalled, “In the beginning it was jus we two, delivering food out of my silver Camaro. I always kept extra food in my car to give away like my dad had done.” But now other “Street Angels” have come alongside to “Help Hunger.” In its early years, 27 volunteers donated their own money to meet the needs. Today, with support from four local churches (Stillwater, New Hope, Christ Community, and Solid Rock) and area businesses like Big Lots, Save-A-Lot, Olive Garden and Red Lobster, 18 regulars manage an incredible operation to feed hungry people in the community several times a week. Street Angels were thankful also for the recent fundraiser, “Restaurants Against Hunger,” a tasting event hosted at the Seasoned Stone that included specialties from area restaurants. But, as a result of joblessness, more people are showing up for help, straining the

resources of an organization that is always in need of food and emergency funds. One of the volunteers, Margaret Nava, serves with her daughter Elizabeth, 13, almost every Thursday night. Three years ago in her own time of need, she discovered the incredible work of Street Angels. Her work with the Redlands Christian Migrant Association had already exposed her to the tremendous need of so many people who would much rather have a job than a handout. Nava is watching Elizabeth’s generous heart grow and together they understand more about life’s purpose. Margaret cannot praise Skyra enough. She said, “My relationships with people have changed because of Skyra. She is an excellent leader who loves unfailingly. She shows us how to give without expectation or judgment, to listen, and to touch lives by sharing food, smiles, and hugs.” Skrya explained her mission: “We want people to know that there is hope beyond whatever troubles life brings them, and that God has answers.” Visit www.streetangelhouse.com or phone Skyra at 863-956-0457 to get involved. Any and all help would be appreciated.

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Local » Focus because funding has been reduced annually by roughly $10,000. More than 200 residents in Winter Haven, Haines City, Auburndale, Davenport and Lakeland receive a fresh lunch Monday through Friday. But perhaps the best part is the personal connection with the folks who deliver the meals. Of the 250 or so folks who volunteer, some deliver, some help in the kitchen, and others staff the thrift store. Most participate in fundraising events or special efforts. And all seem to enjoy the work and the smiles shared with meal recipients.

Meals on Wheels Winter Haven Volunteers Reach Out for Christmas Written By: Cheryl Johnston

ike many other non-profit outreach organizations, Meals on Wheels has felt the pinch of tight economic conditions this year. But thanks to continued community support, their annual Christmas gift-giving effort will continue. For those unfamiliar with the Meals on Wheels program, here’s a little background. The program originated in Great Britain during the Blitz in WWII when Nazi Germany administered sustained strategic bombing between September 7, 1940 and May 10, 1941. More than one million London houses were destroyed or damaged and more than 40,000 civilians died when the Luftwaffe bombed for 76 consecutive nights. People could no longer cook meals, so the Women’s Volunteer Service for Civil Defense (WVS, later WRVS) provided and delivered food. In 1954, the first home-delivered meal program in the United States began in Philadelphia to assist homebound seniors and other area shut-ins with a helping hand so they could maintain independence. Initially, many volunteers were high school students who were dubbed “Platter Angels” because they prepared, packaged, and

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

delivered food to the elderly and disabled in their community. Today, many able-bodied elderly citizens invest themselves into this effort. The corporation’s mission now is to provide hot, nutritionally balanced meals and daily contact to the homebound. Locally, Reverend James W. Kendell, a pastor of the First Christian Church, organized the Winter Haven chapter of the national organization in 1972 with the help of civic organizations, local church members, and individual residents. Since Meals on Wheels receives no government funding, it relies on year-round community support. And the charitable people of the Greater Winter Haven area continue to prove their generosity, to the delight of Executive Director Susan Fitzgibbons. On the local level, the organization’s annual operating costs are about $450,000. Clients pay $4.50 for each meal they receive, which supplies approximately one third of the necessary funding. The thrift store behind the office generates another third. It’s been a little more difficult these last five years

Traditionally, the Winter Haven group also works to personally deliver each of its clients a Christmas gift in December as another tangible way of expressing compassion and care. Clients who seldom leave their homes have shared that this act of kindness encourages them and boosts their selfesteem. The gift-givers will tell you that they are also encouraged. For the Christmas effort, folks can volunteer, donate money, or contribute gifts. Here’s how you can help specifically this year: * Select a name from the Christmas tree at the Meals on Wheels office and shop for a

stocking stuffer or gift. * Or, simply buy a gift for any person who receives meal delivery. * Wrap the gift or not, but wrapped gifts should be labeled as to gender or for the specific person. * There is no suggested limit for gift pricing. * Popular gift items include things such as toiletry items (toothbrush, toothpaste, body wash, lotion, shampoo, shaving supplies), games, cards, puzzles, books, stationary, postage stamps, and snacks. Also helpful are light sweaters or warm shirts, PJs, slippers, photo frames, audio CDs, and wholesome movies on DVD. * Feel free to organize a gift basket, but this is not required. Fitzgibbons is always recruiting new volunteers. Frequently, those who become involved mention the sense of satisfaction this work provides because two of the most important gifts any of us can give is time and energy. For details about donating or volunteering, or to offer a little Christmas joy, call 863299-1616 or visit Meals on Wheels at 620 Sixth Street N.W. in Winter Haven.

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Lake Wales Little Theatre 411 N. Third Street, Lake Wales, FL 33853 • 863.676.1266• http://www.lwlt.org Feature by Cheryl Johnston • Photos courtesy of Mike Baccus and LWLT

he Lake Wales Little Theatre represents more than 30 years of tradition in high quality, live entertainment for folks in Central Florida.

Operated completely by volunteers, the non-profit LWLT manages a full slate of performances each year. Most also work full- or part-time jobs, but enjoy investing their time and talents to offer cultural and educational experiences for local families and visitors. Typically, they produce three plays geared for adults, one for teens, and one for children. Offerings include recent hits, old favorites, and new plays never before produced. Nearly 1,100 people thoroughly enjoyed their most recent play, Nana’s Naughty Knickers, directed by Terry Loyd. Rob Fritz, current president of LWLT, will direct the first play of 2012, now scheduled for January 13-29 in the group’s intimate 140-seat theater. “Drinking Habits” presents the story of two nuns at the Sisters of Perpetual Sewing secretly making wine to keep the convent’s doors open. Paul and Sally, reporters and former fiancées, are hot on their trail and the laughter will be non-stop. Fritz serves presently with Denny Wittman (VP), Vicki Iliff (Secretary) Ray Bower (Treasurer) and the Board’s members-at-large, which include Linda Davis, Fran Alvarez, Summer Elcock, Glenda Thurmond, Sandy Cain, Mike Baccus, Lou Lasch, Felicia O’Neal, Leslie Grondin, and Karen Nelson. Key sponsors are Citizens Bank and the Lake Wales Medical Center and many individuals help the theater financially. LWLT is also particularly indebted to Cliff Tonjes, who since the

‘50s has owned Cliff ’s True Value Hardware, the business that handles box office sales for the theater during the week. Fritz provided some interesting insight regarding live entertainment in this area. He explained, “…Polk County is a great place for the arts. It is home to four community theatres, each of which has been producing live theatre for over 30 years, vibrant collegiate, secondary, middle, and elementary theatre programs, as well as a number of improv comedy troupes. Each of these has strong support, including the Lake Wales Little Theatre.”

A Brief History

Since its formation in 1978, the Lake Wales Little Theatre has provided the only continuous source of live theatrical performances available in the Lake Wales community. During its first 14 seasons, productions were presented in various local facilities: Women’s Club of Lake Wales, area churches, McLaughlin Middle School, Polk Ave Elementary, and Lake Wales High School. In 1992, the group proudly opened its 15th season in the renovated band building of the 1947 public school complex at 411 North Third Street. When the theater group expressed an interest in using the building in the mid-1980s, Polk County legally deeded it to the City of Lake Wales. In 1987 and again in 2007, the city leased the property to the Lake Wales Little Theatre, Inc., for a term of 20 years at a rate of $1.00 per year. Generous individuals and businesses combined funds for resources with tremendous amounts of volunteer labor to accomplish extensive renovations. In addition to grants from the Polk

County Tourist Development Commission and the City of Lake Wales, the theater group earned nearly half the necessary cost. Today, the building includes a spacious carpeted lobby with box office and hospitality center. In the auditorium, six high-raked rows contain 140 upholstered seats with unobstructed views of the stage. Backstage areas feature dressing rooms, restrooms, and costume storage rooms.

Polk Drama Teens and the Children’s Program

Fritz guesstimates that perhaps “hundreds and hundreds of people have acted with the group since 1978.” He estimates “that most of our kids’ and teen productions introduce, on average, nearly 40 new actors per season to the stage.” In fact, Fritz said, “Our children’s and teen programs are so important to the theatre that we begin and end each season with kids’ and teen productions.” He continued, “While several of our board members are teachers, everyone who volunteers at the theatre has a soft spot for kids. We help, as often as we can, any school theatre program - public or private - that asks.

His favorites are comedies such as “Rumors” or “The Odd Couple” in which he was Oscar. When he played one of the corpses in “Arsenic and Old Lace,” Loyd said, “That was it. I like comedies because audiences come to laugh and have a good time.” The Loyds, along with other active theatre members at the time, took plays “on the road” to various retirement communities to raise money for the current theater facilities. In explaining his love for the theater, Loyd said, “You take something two dimensional and a blank stage, and in six weeks you produce something that makes people laugh and cry.” Recently, the group discovered “The Messenger,” a script written 20 years ago by Chicago playwright Joan Kufrin who wintered in Punta Gorda. It had never been produced, so the LWLT group was excited to present the premier. Mrs. Kufrin and her husband, a professional photographer, came to the performance and stayed afterwards to meet the troupe. Loyd called that experience “inspirational.” He also mentioned, among others, some who have added to his joy of the theater: USF theater graduate Danny Baynard, Tom Young, Kristin McAulifffe, Jean Hughes, and 13-year-old Emma Hill. “Over the years, in addition to Emma,” Fitz added, “we’ve had many children, teen, and adult performers who, with proper training, could be professional actors. Others who have come up through our children’s and teen program include Emilie Lamar, Billy Batton, Cody Hancock, Alyssa Porter, and many, many more.”

Board member Glenda Thurmond, who has professional stage experience in California and New York, is one who enjoys coaching children. She directed the theater’s production of The Miracle Worker and supervises the Polk Drama Teens, sponsored by LWLT. Thurmond would like to take plays to area schools and also dreams of “raising enough funds for a teen field trip to New York City and a Broadway play.” The club welcomes all Polk County middle school and high school teens who like to keep busy. They meet from 5-7 p.m. each Sunday and must be involved in at least one show annually.

A talented group of retired gentlemen meet each Saturday (and more often when necessary) to build any sets the directors can imagine. This team includes: Ray Bower, Carl Bungard, Lou Lasche, Terry Loyd, and Marc Paetzold.

The recent production of “The Tale of Snow White” featured more than 50 children.

Each fall LWLT produces a children’s play and stages a teen play during the summer. In 2011, more than 50 children performed in “The Tale of Snow White,” directed by Audrey Fritz. Up next for the teens in June 2012 is “Lagooned”, which will be co-directed by Denny Wittman and Felicia O’Neal. Taylor Wolf, 15, a Lake Wales High School freshman, serves as President of Polk Drama Teens. She’s been involved with the theater 11 years, since she was four. After her parents took her to see a Broadway play, she joined LWLT and dreams now of an acting career. An immediate goal is to bring more teens into the club. The solid student invites others to get involved. She encouraged, “LWLT is a great opportunity to get on stage and try acting for the first time without anyone criticizing you.” In addition to helping backstage, Wolf recently played Snow White’s Evil Queen. She offered a creative tip for those who love to sing but like her, haven’t had voice lessons: “I just go on YouTube and sing along with the songs I like.” As a result, her talent is growing.

Learning Through Experience

Marc Paetzold, a LWLT past-president for five years and member since 1993, “All of our actors, painters, set builders and staff are superstars.” Terry Loyd, an AG Edwards & Sons assistant branch manager, has been with LWLT for 27 years. His start came when his wife Katherine tried out for a part and encouraged him to do the same. Laughingly, he said, “Little did she know she’s created a monster, because I love the whole experience.”

Publicity is Ves Spindler’s specialty. During his seven year involvement,, including a term on the board, he created the group’s promotional brochure. These days, he enjoys directing most.

The Public Can Help

LWLT members are focused on promoting, teaching, and encouraging an appreciation for theatrical arts. They want the theater to be a place where anyone can explore and express their creativity. To produce a stage play requires plenty of work and the more volunteers, the lighter the load. Interested locals can help in so many ways - audition for shows, greet guests, serve refreshments, build sets, sew costumes, work behind the scenes, be a season’s ticket holder or sponsor, clean, run errands, donate money or materials, help with fundraising, and recruit other volunteers or audience members. Volunteers don’t have to perform on stage to be a part of one of Polk County’s premier liveentertainment venues. They can make a valuable contribution off stage with a paintbrush, a sewing machine or needle and thread, a hot-glue gun, or a hammer. They can hand out programs or serve refreshments during intermission. And if they do want to perform, LWLT is always looking for new faces to feature. To get involved, send an email to lakewaleslittletheatre@lwlt.org with name, contact information, and area of interest. (Hosting, Concessions, Costumes, Set Building or Decorating, Lights, Sound, Acting, Etc…) Rob Fritz, President, said, “We’re all very proud of LWLT and will take advantage of any opportunity to brag about one of Polk County’s crown jewels. Join us and see why!

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

his month Focus features the Lake Wales Little Theatre, one of the artistic jewels in Polk County’s crown. For more than 30 years, this non-profit organization staffed totally by volunteers has produced live performance events to entertain the fine families in eastern Polk. Rob Fritz, the LWLT current president, has a passion for the theater that started in elementary school. Born in Iowa, he also lived in Illinois before moving to Florida in 1973. In 1992 he accepted teaching position at Santa Fe Catholic High School in Lakeland, where he taught Drama, Speech, Debate, Research Writing, and Literature and directed 20 shows there between 1992 and 1998. And then he met the Lake Wales Little Theater group. Read on for some great information. Focus: Will you share how you became involved with LWLT? Fritz: In early 2000, Marc Paetzold, president of LWLT at the time, had a son who was a student of mine at Winter Haven High School and a performer with me at Comedy Buffet. Marc and his wife Sue were big supporters of the Buffet and asked me if I’d consider directing that year’s children’s & teen production of “The Mad Adventures of Mr. Toad.” I did --- and had a great time working with some very talented children --- and was asked to join the Board of Directors the next season. I’ve directed most of the summer teen productions since then. Focus: Tell us about your family. Fritz: My wife Audrey is the Senior Manager of Prevention, Health, and Wellness for the Polk County School Board. In addition to time she spends working with the Church of the Redeemer children’s ministry, she’s also involved in community theatre --- she teaches kids’ classes occasionally at Theatre Winter Haven. She appeared in last season’s “Dearly Departed” at Theatre Winter Haven, and directed last season’s “The Adventures of Tom and Huck” and this season’s “The Tale of Snow White” at Lake Wales Little Theatre. Audrey is a very funny lady --- one of the funniest people I’ve ever met --- and is a founding member of Comedy Buffet. We met when I began working with the Buffet in 1999 and we dated three years before I proposed in front of an audience at the end of one of our shows. Our eight-year-old daughter Holly is also very funny and has appeared in Tom and Huck and Snow White. She’s also my “directing assistant” and often attends rehearsals with “Out

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

of the Box,” an improv comedy troupe I direct and perform with, WHHS and Lake Wales Little Theatre. I’m admittedly a proud dad, but she really has a good eye for theatre. A few times when I’ve blocked out a scene for a show, she has come during rehearsal and told me how to move the performers to improve the look --- and she’s been right every time! Focus: How about education or theater training? Were you involved in theater at a young age? Fritz: My first acting experience was in 3rd grade, when I played President Lincoln in my school’s Thanksgiving pageant. In high school, I acted quite a bit at Civic Theatre of Central Florida (now called Orlando Repertory Theatre). An Explorer post sponsored by WFTV – Channel 9/Orlando that I was involved with produced a monthly teen-oriented show. I took classes at both Valencia Community College and University of Central Florida, and was active in the theatre program at Valencia, where I earned an A.A. degree in 1989. I completed a degree in British Literature in 1990 from UCF. Focus: Can you guesstimate how many folks might have appeared on the LWLT stage since its inception in 1978? Fritz: I don’t know that we’ve ever really looked into it, but my guess would be hundreds and hundreds. I’d estimate (and this may be a low number) that most of our kids’ and teen productions introduce, on average, nearly 40 new actors per season to the stage. With those productions alone, the numbers add up quickly! Focus: How many people are currently involved in the company? Fritz: Quite a few --- on the Board of Directors are four officers and ten members-at-large. Additionally, 20 or so others volunteer on a regular basis (acting, working backstage or in the sound/light booth, hosting, serving coffee, etc). There’s always room for more! Focus: How are the affairs of the LWLT organization managed? Fritz: Lake Wales Little Theatre is a non-profit organization that is run entirely by volunteers. We have a Board of Directors, appointed annually, and they all deserve credit for all that they do for LWLT. Officers are elected to one-year terms. There are not term limits. Focus: Which organizations are big supporters or sponsors of LWLT? Fritz: Citizen’s Bank and the Lake Wales Medical Center are two. Many individuals help the theatre financially. Cliff ’s True Value Hardware handles our ticket sales during the week. Owner Cliff Tonjes has been a big supporter since the group’s inception.

Focus: Is the location you’re in now the original one? Fritz: Our current facilities are our first “permanent” facilities. For the first 14 years of our history, the theatre presented shows in various locations around Lake Wales. Our all-volunteer staff maintains the building and grounds and replace or repair as necessary. Thanks to some very dedicated members of our “Buildings and Grounds” and “Housekeeping” committees, the theatre is kept in great shape. Focus: Your favorites are the comedies, right? Do you have some personal favorite plays? Fritz: There are too many favorites to list --- we love to laugh at LWLT! My favorite play is always the one I’m currently working on, so right now it’s “Drinking Habits,” which opens in January 2012. Some that I always enjoy watching, no matter what, include: “The Pirates of Penzance,” “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” “The Worst High School Play in the World,” “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” and “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead.” I’m proud of all of the shows we’ve done at LWLT, but some stand out more than others. For me, those plays include “Marrying Walt,” “Brotherly Love,” “Fools,” “The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood,” “Lucky Dollar - Private Eye,” “Romance in D,” “Five Tellers Dancing in the Rain,” “Crimes of the Heart,” and “Soup Du Jour”. Focus: Do you typically act, direct, etc. or do you prefer behind the scenes work? Fritz: Anymore, I consider myself more of a director than anything else. I usually direct once each season at the Little Theatre; I also direct two mainstage shows each season at WHHS while teaching and directing at “Out of the Box” and WHHS’s Blue Devil Comedy Brigade, both improv comedy troupes. During the LWLT season, I generally help with set construction, set painting, and stage lighting. I’ve only acted in two shows at the Little Theatre: “Marrying Walt” and “Brotherly Love”, both “world premiere” productions making their theatrical debuts. Focus: It looks like you do about 5 shows a season. Do any of the actors, directors, or producers have “professional” backgrounds or advanced education in theater? Fritz: Several of our past and current members have studied theatre in college and a few have had professional experiences. Sandy Cain, one of our board members, is a theatre arts educator and director at Davenport School of the Arts. I have been a theatre arts teacher for the past 19 years (currently in year 13 as Director of Theatre at WHHS) and have extensive experience in improvisational sketch comedy as a performer, host, and teacher (for many years, I was one of the owners and the artistic director of Comedy Buffet; now I’m one of two founders and directors of a new improv comedy troupe, “Out of the Box”). Focus: Tell us about the Polk Drama Teens? Fritz: This is the Little Theatre’s Drama Club for Polk County students. Any middle or high school student, whether public, private, or homeschooled is eligible for membership. Focus: Do I understand that you also have a children’s arm of LWLT? Fritz: We do --- our children’s theatre produces one show each fall (this season’s The Tale of Snow White featured a cast of more than 50 children), which is often the first theatre experience for many. Most of the kids in our program, the ones who’ve been bitten by “the bug”, return each year to take part in the kids’ play. Once they turn 13, many continue to participate in our teen program, which produces one play each summer. Our children’s and teen

programs are so important to the theatre that we begin and end each season with kids’ and teen productions. Focus: Does the organization do any type of outreach or connecting to the Polk School System? Fritz: While several of our board members are teachers, everyone who volunteers at the theatre has a soft spot for kids. We help, as often as we can, any public or private school theatre program that asks. Focus: Any superstars among the group of performers? Fritz: As far as I’m concerned, every actor on our stage is a superstar and all of our directors, producers, stage managers, sound/light technicians, and stagehands are our behind-the-scenes superstars. Everyone who participates in a production brings a different set of skills and talents --- what we have in common is a love of the theatre in general and our Little Theatre in particular. Focus: How can the public help you (in addition to purchasing tickets regularly or becoming season ticketholders)? Fritz: One of our goals at LWLT is to promote, teach, and encourage an appreciation for the theatrical arts. Another goal is to be a place where anyone can explore and express his/her creativity, whether onstage or behind the scenes. The public, through its support, helps the theatre achieve those goals. There are lots of ways the public can help --- swinging a hammer to build a set, painting the sets, greeting our audience, making coffee and serving refreshments, auditioning for shows, helping behind the scenes during a production, sponsoring a seat in honor or memory of someone special, sewing costumes, cleaning a toilet, encouraging friends and neighbors to see our latest production --- the list is endless. Focus: Could the group use donations of cash, materials, costumes, props, etc? Fritz: I don’t know of a theatre that couldn’t. Monetary donations are, of course, always welcome and helpful. So are donations from someone’s garage or closet. We’re always looking for unusual or period prop and costume pieces. Focus: Thank you, Rob, for helping us to learn more about Lake Wales Little Theater. You’ve inspired us to value this work more. Fritz: I appreciate it --- We’ll take any opportunity we can to brag about the Little Theatre. There’s something remarkable about Polk County, something that I’m not sure too many people realize: This is a great place for the arts, especially the theatrical arts. Polk County is home to four community theatres, each of which has been producing live theatre for over 30 years, vibrant collegiate, secondary, middle, and elementary theatre programs, as well as a number of improv comedy troupes. Each of these has strong support --- the Little Theatre is a great example of how much support there is for theatre in Polk County. Thanks to the people who support our theatre, and because of the hard work of our all-volunteer staff, the Lake Wales Little Theatre is a crown jewel not only to Lake Wales, but to all of Polk County. So, readers, the logical next step is to purchase tickets for the upcoming play or for the season. And if you’re cleaning closets and discover items that could be props or period costumes, get thee down to the theater. Who knows, you might even discover a talent for acting, set-building, or fundraising. As Rob mentioned, any and all help and donations will be greatly appreciated. This jewel deserves all the support we can give.

FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

business » business profile

In addition to many dessert specialties, if you can dream it, Deli Delicacies can create and beautifully present it.

Deli Delicacies Bakery and Bistro D Written By: Cheryl Johnston

eli Delicacies Bakery and Bistro is a Lakeland gem in the specialty food arena. Since 1985, Carlos and Gretchen Anglero have been proud to serve delicious food and provide custom catering and specialty cake creations for all occasions. A visit to the company’s website and Facebook page is a must. One look at the photos of cakes and breakfast or lunch selections, and you’ll be hooked. Deli Delicacies definitely earns space on your computer’s bookmark bar. Warning - a visit to the site might just tempt you to plan a big party, which is exactly what the Angleros hope you do.

The Angleros consider themselves “very blessed and thankful that clients’ appreciate the marketing, flavor, and style of the food we present.” The fine dining establishment offers breakfast, lunch, and early dinner fare six days a week. The bistro is on the list of favorite eateries for many locals who can’t wait to bring guests. The couple enjoys their work. Gretchen grew up in the California restaurant owned by the grandmother who raised her. Her mother was part Chocktaw Indian and food preparation was always a special expression of family love and togetherness. At an early age, Gretchen learned to bake pies and cakes about which customers raved. When she moved to

Deli Delicacies is renowned in Polk County and surrounding areas for fantastically beautiful and especially creative cakes and baked goods.

The company also gives back to help others. Deli Delicacies collaborates with schools and churches in their fundraisers, supports efforts of the March of Dimes and American Cancer Society, and according to Carlos, “When Carlos, who is originally from Puerto Rico, met Gretchen when she hired him as a pastry we help to feed the hungry, we bring joy to ourselves. We do this because, even in tough chef five years after she opened. He describes economic times, the community continues to his wife as an “amazing woman who loves God with the biggest heart of anyone I know.” support us.” He added, “She’s self-driven, always going, A visit to Deli Delicacies is a unique and never stops because she wants to make sure everyone is taken care of. She’s dedicated experience because customers discover multiple reasons to return again and again. very professional. This work is her passion.” Word of mouth is their best promotion. Stop in soon to enjoy or arrange for the following So is family. The couple’s three daughters, services: Pamela, Karla, and Samantha, are bright and creative, too. According to Carlos, the girls are “content young women” who’ve done well in school. Fun for the family includes vacation weeks at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and in the summer. When they want to get quiet, they might escape to rent a cabin in Georgia or spend a weekend in St. Augustine. Florida from California, she established Deli Delicacies to supply work for herself and her father, Wayne Knecht.

For 26 years, Deli Delicacies has grown and expanded services to accommodate the changing needs of its clientele. The Angleros, along with manager Mary Devine and staff, take great pleasure in “sharing in your special events” by preparing delightful buffets, sweets, and custom cakes for cherished celebrations with family and friends. Devine said, I’ve worked with the company for 13 years. It’s a great place to work, I love what I do, and I meet so many wonderful people.”

Breakfast - (from 7-11AM Mon-Sat) (Eggs Benedict & Greek Wraps are specialties) Lunch and Bistro Fare until 6PM weekdays and 5PM Saturdays Catering for all occasions, large or small Baked goods, pastries, and the specialty cakes for which they’re famous Custom wedding cakes that (unbelievably beautiful with incredible taste) Holiday gift baskets with fresh made treats like carmel apples, cookies, etc. Gift certificates (always a favorite)

Deli Delicacies Bakery and Bistro www.delidelicacies.com 4110 South Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33813 (863) 644-3363 Hours: Sun Closed; Mon-Fri 7am–6pm; Sat 7am–5pm

Flan is one of the specialty desserts at Deli Delicacies. Definitely worth the trip. FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

extra » city of winter haven

City of Winter haven EXTENDED HOURS CARE W Written By: Joy Townsend

inter Haven’s new Downtown Trailhead Park is all about kids and families. That’s why dedication of the new park will be on a Saturday, when everyone is out of school and can plan to participate. Everyone is invited to join us at 10 a.m., Saturday, December 10, 2011, at the Downtown Trailhead Park, 611 Third St. NW, just west of the City Tennis courts and north of City Hall, in downtown Winter Haven. The site for the City’s newest park is part of what was the original town of Winter Haven. “Celebrating our Past, Present and Future” is the event theme and will feature brief presentations by local dignitaries regarding the significance of the project. A 50-Year Centennial Time Capsule including items representing Winter Haven’s past, present and future will be buried. The Park will then be officially dedicated through an “unwrapping” of the playground, which will be led by Winter Haven City Commissioners. All children present, will be invited to help Commissioners in the playground “unwrapping.” The rest of the day will be a Trailhead Holiday

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

Festival, featuring the new playground, bounce houses, face painting, ornament decorating, a candy cane hunt, refreshments and a special guest your children won’t want to miss. In addition to a transportation-themed play area, the $1.5 million Downtown Trailhead Park includes shiny new picnic areas, sidewalks throughout, brand new restroom facilities. The play area has rubber safety surfaces shaped like the City’s Chain of Lakes and a knee level wall to mark the park boundaries from the rest of the park. There’s lots of grass and shade trees in the park, too. Everyone in the Community is invited to attend this special family event celebrating the City’s newest park and the end of the City’s Centennial Year. You all won’t want to miss this exciting experience as it will be truly making history. Imagine your child being at the opening of the Centennial Time Capsule in 2061, remembering when they were at the grand opening of the park and burying of the capsule. For additional details, please contact Leisure Services at (863) 291-5656.

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FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

dining & entertainment » dining profile hosted live Dixieland jazz at the bar and performed with his own Al’s Place Band. Finger bought the cozy bar, which seats about 50, along with Jim Biel in 2006. With the guidance of manager and musiccoordinator Trish Meador, Al’s Place carries on the tradition of live jazz in Lake Wales, presenting concerts primarily in the winter months. John Skillman is a clarinetist in the New Orleans Nighthawks Jazz Band, and has performed at Al’s Place for the past several years. His favorite meal there is the Fried Fish and Shrimp Combo ($8.49), served with coleslaw and fries. Chairs and tables are set around a bandstand, lit by strings of lights, in a garden space behind Al’s Place for concerts. New Orleans Nighthawks Jazz Band performs at Al’s Place

Norby’s Steak and Seafood & Al’s Place I Written By: Andrew Moore

f steak, seafood, and live music are your thing, then chances are that Wayne Finger’s Norby’s Steak and Seafood and Al’s Place in Lake Wales is the place for you. Finger has brought new life to these community mainstays.

For many years, Norby’s had been a run-ofthe-mill sports bar along Highway 60. But when Finger bought it in 1993, a gradual transformation began. Finger says over time more and more food was added to the menu, until the point where, about 14 years ago, the old drinking joint became a legitimate restaurant. Norby’s interior is filled with greenery; hanging ferns and potted plants blend the lines between indoors and out. Casual furniture, photographs of friends and customers, and various mementos create a relaxed, homey atmosphere. The restaurant is perhaps best known for its flame-grilled steaks ($13.99-26.99), including filet mignon, New York strip, and marinated sirloin. But Norby’s appetizers draw equal attention. Dishes such as garlic bites and horsey bites ($13.99)—a combination of grilled tenderloin atop cruncy toast rounds with garlic or

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

horseradish and butter sauce—are a crowd pleaser.

Other appetizers include steamed mussels, oysters on the half shell, baked brie with raspberry puree, sausage cheese bread, and a smoked fish dip. Norby’s fresh salads can be topped with steak, chicken, salmon or mahi-mahi.

at Al’s Place ($1.25), an all beef hot dog, topped with a meat-based chili, onions and relish, is hard to beat. Paired with a cold, 16 oz. draft beer (also just $1.25), it might just be the best deal in town. Al and Norma Rattey established Al’s Place in the mid-70s. Rattey, a jazz drummer,

Finger is serious about seafood, and has recently added Maine lobster tails to his ever-growing menu. Other items include snow crab legs, grilled shrimp, and fresh salmon. But the signature item is the Gulf Black Grouper. Finger says he won’t substitute that fish, which has certain seasonal constraints, with any other grouper variety. “If we can’t buy black, we don’t buy it,” Finger says. “There’s nothing that matches up to the quality of Black Grouper.” At Al’s Place on Scenic Highway 17, the fare is simple and delicious. The fish fry dinner ($7.49) is a top seller and comes with sides of homemade coleslaw and French fries. The fish fry is all-you-can-eat between 4 and 7 p.m. But for value, the Norby’s Famous Chili Dog

Norby’s Steak and Seafood in Lake Wales

The New Orleans Nighthawks Jazz Band performs at Al’s Place at least once a month between December and April. Their next concert is Friday, December 16th, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Critical Info

Norby’s Steak and Seafood 2425 Hwy 60 East, Lake Wales, Florida 33853, (863) 604-1456. Al’s Place, 1530 N. Scenic Hwy (Route 17 N.), Lake Wales, FL 33853, (863) 679-3325.

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FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

entertainment » event calendar

winter haven

calendar of events

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

» Havendale Christmas Parade 7 p.m. to 9 p.m 10th annual Christmas parade filled with bands, holiday fun, and floats. Havendale Blvd. For more information call 863-967-3400

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

» Light Up the Lakes 6:30 p.m. Come out and enjoy the Boat Parade on Lake May for a Holiday family get-together Lake May For more information call 863-293-2138 » Carols in the Park 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meander through the different craft vendors as local schools and groups perform Holiday music. Central Park For more information call 863-295-9422

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8

» 12 Days of Christmas Pairing and Charity Project 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Join locals as they complete Part 3 of the 12 days of Christmas fundraiser 7110 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven $20 per person For more information call 863-268-8263 » Winter Haven Young Professionals Group Christmas Party 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join the Winter Haven Young Professionals group at the Blue Room for some Holiday food and fun. 5937 Cypress Gardens Blvd $10 for members; $22 for non-members For more information call 863-293-2138

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

» 2011 Centennial Gala 7:00 p.m. An evening filled with music from the past, highlights of past decades, food, and dance music by Brass Heart Band. Cash bar available. Dress is either “decade” or cocktail apparel Nora Mayo Hall, 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven $30 For more information call 863-291-5600

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 » Brothers United Christmas Concert The Brothers United will perform their 10th

December 2011 focuswinterhaven.com

annual Christmas concert. Proceeds will help raise money for cancer research. 210 Cypress Garden Blvd, Winter Haven For more information call Alina Portz 863-2893625

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26

» Kwanzaa Celebration and Performance 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Come out and learn about the Kwanzaa AfricanAmerican culture 800 East Palmetto Street, Lakeland FREE For more information call 863-688-7743

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29

» Blend Four young men perform classic pieces from the 50’s and 60’s. Hits like “My Girl” and “Blue Moon” will be sung. 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd. SW, Winter Haven For more information call 863-299-2672

ON-GOING EVENTS

Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens and Pinewood Estate Holiday Home Tour 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Photos with Santa, tree decorating, holiday concerts, and more! 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales For more information call 863-676-1408 THURSDAYS Senior Adult Center Ballroom Social 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Singles and Couples are encouraged to learn to ballroom dance with classic dances like the Fox Trot, Waltz, and some swing/jive pieces. 250 S. Lake Silver Dr., Winter Haven $3 For more information contact Erica Guerra at 863-291-5870 2nd and 4th SATURDAY Movie Afternoon 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Family friendly movies and refreshments. Winter Haven Public Library in the Multipurpose room FREE

GET TO KNOW OUR DOCTORS.

Jennifer Negrin, M.D. Auburndale

Robert Bala, M.D. Bartow

Kimberly Jackson, D.O. Dundee

Celestino Vega, M.D., FAAFP Haines City

Eduardo Torres, M.D. Lake Wales

Darien Kavasmaneck, M.D. S.E. Winter Haven

Jaime Abuan, M.D. Winter Haven

Auburndale Family Health Center

Lake Wales Family Health Center

Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice 2028 Highway 92 West | (863) 965-9327

Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice 201 SR 60 West | (863) 679-9644

Jennifer Negrin, M.D.

Eduardo Torres, M.D.

Bartow Family Health Center

Southeast Winter Haven Family Health Center

Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice 1625 N. Carpenter Ave. | (863) 533-1448

Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice 6035 Cypress Gardens Blvd. | (863) 324-4725

Robert Bala, M.D.

Darien Kavasmaneck, M.D.

Dundee Family Health Center

Winter Haven Family Health Center

Diplomate, American Osteopathic Board of Family Practice 5999 Dundee Rd., Suite 750 | (863) 292-4656

Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice 100 Avenue I, N.E. | (863) 292-4077

Kimberly Jackson, D.O.

Jaime Abuan, M.D.

Haines City Family Health Center Celestino Vega, M.D., FAAFP

Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice

Angela Austin-Leyva, PA-C

36245 Highway 27 | (863) 421-9801

FIND A DOCTOR CLOSE TO HOME: Call the Winter Haven Hospital Physician Referral Line 800-416-6705. FOCUS Magazine winter haven December 2011

500 Unique Gifts

Our 65th year under the Water Tower Downtown Winter Haven Florida Enjoy a unique shopping experience See our 11 month store resteration 100â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of new gift ideas or Visit us online at AndyThornal.com

Under $ 50