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February
LKLD
Letter From the Editor
Hello! This month we have a very sweet issue in honor of the strawberry. We visit Fancy Farms to hear their family’s story about growing both strawberries and their very cute farmstand. The berries are in season right now, and they are especially delicious when grown locally. Thank you to Daryl Ward for his writing contribution about the upcoming Story Telling Festival this month. Shannon Carnevale writes about the unusually wet weather in our area, and the Lakeland Public Library gives us the February book recommendations. Check out our Top Ten lists and the calendar for all the best events around town. When you’re out, tag your Instagram and Facebook posts with #lkldhaven and you just might find it in the next issue. This month is Black History Month, I encourage you to look through our calendar and check out some of the events happening locally. Have a great February and Happy Birthday to all of the “leap” babies this year! Amy Sexson Editor/Partner Haven & LKLD Magazines Destroyer Media & Marketing Winter Haven Farmers Market CentralFloridaTiX.com First Friday Winter Haven Email me: amy@destroyermedia.com Norman Rockwell, ‘Threading the Needle,’ 1922, Oil on canvas, © 2023 National Museum of American Illustration, Newport, RI, and the American Illustrators Gallery, New York, NY.
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FEBRUARY 2024 // VOLUME 7 // ISSUE 05
CONTENTS LETTER FROM THE EDITOR................5 LOCAL NEWS............................................ 9 TOP 10...........................................................11 FANCY FARMS MARKET......................14 ORANGE BLOSSOM CHILD............ 20 BOB KEALING..........................................24 MIKE & MIKE’S DESSERTS.................28 COCKTAIL.................................................33
POLK TALES..............................................34 CHECK ME OUT ;).................................37 ~ ....................... 38 NAVIGATING EL NINO. CALENDAR................................................41 SOLD HOMES..........................................53 HOROSCOPES........................................59 #LKLDHAVEN............................................61
2023 : Winter Haven Small Business of the Year
2023: Best Writing: Humor // Best Photo Illustration // Best Digital: Social Media // Best Digital: Podcast 2022: Best Digital: Podcast // Best Photography: Feature Image 2021 : Best Writing: Humor // Best Digital: Social Media // Best Special Theme Issue // Best Writing 2020: Best Writing: Humor // Best Digital: Social Media 2019: Best Writing: Feature // Best Advertisement: For a Client // Best Photography: Cover 2018: Best Design: Cover // Best Redesign 2017: Best Digital: Social Media
Publisher // Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com
Ad Director // Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com
Editor & Creative Director // Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com
Managing Editor & Writer // Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com
Art & Production Manager // Steven Maynard steven@destroyermedia.com
Graphic Designer // Ella Doyle ella@destroyermedia.com
Media Specialist // Nate Schaller nate@destroyermedia.com
Event Director // Lyndsey Venrick lyndsey@destroyermedia.com
Account Representative // Jessica Parker jessica@destroyermedia.com
Account Representative // Nicole Nikdel nicole@destroyermedia.com
Contributing Writers Shannon Carnevale // LkldNow.com
For advertising information please contact: christine@destroyermedia.com
Mailing Address: PO Box 1607, Winter Haven, Florida 33881 | 863-202-9172 LKLD is published twelve times a year by Destroyer Media & Marketing. LKLD distributes 12,500 copies a month with 8,100 mailed to homes and 3,400 copies available at select locations throughout Lakeland. 7
DOWNTOWN WINTER HAVEN
46th Annual Central Park Art Festival Sat. March 9th, 2024 9am-4pm Sun. March 10th, 2024 10am-4pm
Fine Art from around the country, music, entertainment, food trucks, kids activities and more!
“Hello Joy” Magdalene-Flallos
OUR SPONSORS
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LOCAL NEWS
WORDS Kimberly C. Moore/LkldNow.com
REPAVING UNDERWAY IN LAKELAND
SCHOOLS OPEN ENROLLMENT UNDERWAY
LALONDE, MCLEOD AND READ SWORN IN
OFFICIALS HOPING FOR SEVERAL BILLS, CHANGES
MAJOR EXPANSION COMING FOR ONE MORE CHILD
Three major roads in the Lake Morton neighborhood are slated for repaving: Success Avenue, South Boulevard, and East Park Street. There had been a plan to postpone the project to see if residents wanted to uncover the roads’ original brick, but testing showed the brick was removed years ago before the roads were paved with asphalt. City of Lakeland Communications Director Kevin Cook said, in the future, any other roads that are at least 75% brick can be restored. Public Works Director Heath Frederick said the city allocates about $200,000 a year for brick restoration projects. In addition, paving projects along Cleveland Heights Boulevard and Lake Hunter Drive are underway. And three other streets are also scheduled for work this month: W Main Street/Central Avenue between Olive Street and George Jenkins Boulevard; Webster Avenue/7th Street between 10th Street and its north end; Rose Street between Ingraham Avenue and Fern Road.
Polk County Public Schools enrollment for magnet or choice programs is underway, ending Feb. 16. Students can apply to a multitude of specialized programs, including agriculture, business management, culinary arts, criminal justice, firefighting, military careers, veterinary science, and many more. The district offers more than 20 nationally accredited certification programs for several careers options. High school students can graduate with a trade certification and a job waiting for them, or with an International Baccalaureate or Cambridge diploma showing they took the most rigorous academic courses offered. Parents must submit their applications online via the district’s Parent Portal during the application window. Most programs are filled by lottery, and some require applications, auditions or testing. PCPS is hosting a School Choice Showcase on Thursday, Feb. 8, at Lakeland Square Mall from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Guy LaLonde Jr. was sworn in as Lakeland’s newest city commissioner on Jan. 2, while incumbents Bill “Tiger” Read and Chad McLeod took the oath of office again. LaLonde bested Sam Simmons, who was appointed to the commission to fill a vacancy left by Phillip Walker when he left to run for the Florida Legislature. LaLonde and Simmons faced each other in a runoff in December. Read ran unopposed, while McLeod overcame two opponents to win a second term. After the ceremony, the seven-member commission got down to the business of the city. Among its first actions, it appointed Commissioner Stephanie Madden to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. Madden will preside over meetings in Mayor Bill Mutz’s absence. She replaces Commissioner Sara Roberts McCarley, who held the role for the past three years. It is the first City Commission since 1968 that does not have minority representation.
The 2024 Florida Legislative Session is underway and Lakeland officials are hopeful that the session will yield new solutions to the state’s property insurance crisis, funding for major transportation projects and support for extending Brightline rail service from Orlando to Tampa – with a stop in Lakeland. But they are also concerned about bills that could limit the revenue the city gets from Lakeland Electric, take away Lakeland’s power to levy business taxes, double the city’s financial exposure in lawsuits, require quicker approvals for building permits, and ban red-light cameras. At the top of Lakeland’s priority list is opposing a pair of bills that would limit how much utility revenue can be used for government operations. Unlike investor-owned utilities, whose profits go to private shareholders, earnings from city-owned Lakeland Electric benefit the residents of Lakeland by funding things like parks and public safety. Last year, the utility dividend that went into the city’s general fund was $32.6 million.
A major expansion is in the works for the Florida Baptist Children’s Home/One More Child campus at 1015 Sikes Blvd. on Lake Hunter. The Lakeland-based nonprofit organization plans to build 28 semi-detached cottages for single mothers, two large homes for foster families, a 21,375-square-foot meeting/event space, a warehouse, a climate-controlled storage facility, and an 8,250-square-foot Family Resource Center. It also plans to tear down four older dormitories, build a new recreation center and pool, and a new chapel. The proposal was approved in a January City Commission meeting. The organization was founded in November 1902. The Florida Baptist Children’s Home purchased 30.4 acres of land on the west shore of Lake Hunter in 1945 and moved its state operations from Arcadia to Lakeland in 1948. It changed its name to One More Child in recent years and went from serving 3,351 children and families in 2007, to more than 232,000 worldwide in 2023.
CHIEF SAVES MAN FROM BURNING CAR
LAYOFFS BEFORE CHRISTMAS
NEW EATERIES IN LAKE MORTON AREA
PLANS FOR MALL’S SEARS UP IN THE AIR
CITRUS CONNECTION AND LDDA SAFE FROM LAWMAKERS’ CHOPPING BLOCK
Lakeland Assistant Fire Chief Mike Williams received the city’s Heroism Award on Jan. 16 after he pulled a man from a burning vehicle on I-75 near Ocala while Williams was off duty. Williams and his wife Carol were headed out on a vacation on Dec. 28, traveling north on I-75, when they spotted a small SUV on fire in the tree line near Ocala. Williams, 52, parked his truck, ran to his toolbox, grabbed a claw hammer and smashed the passenger and driver’s side windows before finally getting the driver’s side door open and pulling him away from the burning car. A trauma nurse on the scene also helped drag the man away and then the pair began treating him. Williams suffered first and second degree burns on his hands, face and scalp, which have since almost all healed. “Chief Williams’ humility was as remarkable as his bravery,” Marion County Fire Chief James Banta wrote in a letter to the Lakeland Fire Department. “He sought no praise for his actions and was content knowing that he had had the opportunity to save a life … Chief Williams’ actions performed off duty exemplify the highest standards of community service and bravery. Recognizing his valor would be a fitting tribute and an inspiration to others.”
Goddard Produce laid off 44 workers days before Christmas, shorting them a week’s severance and cutting off their health insurance a month early. Nine office staff, four sales representatives, 13 warehouse workers, and 18 drivers were informed that the office was closing, effectively immediately. Goddard Produce had been a family run business until September 2020, when the family sold to Francis “Alfie” Oakes III, owner of Oakes Farms, one of the largest independently owned agribusinesses in south Florida. Oakes was counting on a new, bigger contract from the Defense Logistics Agency — worth up to $351 million over five years — to serve central Florida and Puerto Rico. The contract is still marked “pending” on the DLA website, but Goddard employees say the rumors are that Oakes didn’t get it and that’s when the layoffs hit.
New eateries are arriving in the block across from the Lakeland Public Library and Polk Museum of Art on East Palmetto Street. Pizza Daddy’s has already opened shop inside the Lake Morton Market and Deli, offering in-house made dough and tomato sauce, along with quality cheeses and meats. In addition, “The Peach House” is set to open soon in the repurposed historic home that used to house the Red Door at 733 E. Palmetto St. At 719 E. Palmetto St., a recently renovated historic three-unit building will house an ice cream shop. The Michigan Bros — Jose Martinez and Max Miller — have submitted plans for a Motown-themed shop called Mootown Scoops, set to open in April.
Plans to tear down the Sears store at Lakeland Square Mall and build luxury apartments is up in the air. The former Sears store at Lakeland Square Mall is back on the market, but Jordan Desnick, head of real estate for the Flacks Group, which owns the property, said they are still planning to build 320 luxury apartments. However, the Miami-based investment group would sell if it received a high enough purchase offer. The building has been vacant since 2018, following Sears’ Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The sales price is $10.9 million — more than double the $4 million Flacks paid in September 2023. The ad states the building could be redeveloped into apartments or self-storage with a zoning change.
Citrus Connection Executive Director Tom Phillips and staff spent several days in Tallahassee in January, working with Florida Rep. Sam Killebrew, R-Winter Haven, and other transportation and special-taxing-district officials to modify a bill that could have dissolved Citrus Connection, the county’s public transportation entity, and the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority, which encourages businesses to move downtown and runs special events like the Farmer’s Market. As it was originally written, House Bill 7013 would have allowed voters every 10 years to dissolve the state’s independent special districts that levy taxes. Once voted on and approved, the districts would have had to dissolve and liquidate their assets within 90 days. The modifications keep dissolution off future ballots. The bill came about as part of the governor’s years-long feud with Walt Disney World and its special taxing district, the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which he transformed into the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. The Lakeland Area Mass Transit Authority District Board heard several proposals at its January meeting to increase ridership.
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POLK TOP 10 POLK TALES: STORYTELLING FESTIVAL VISTEBALL
LAKE WALES ARTS FESTIVAL
FLIPPING FOR CHARITIES
CELEBRATION OF BLACK JAZZ COMPOSERS
Feb. 3, 6 – 9:30 pm at SUN ‘n FUN. VISTE’s signature annual fundraising event. The popular golf-themed event features a variety of games, food and drinks, prizes, and much more - all for a great cause, helping local seniors in need! viste.org
Feb. 9 – 11 at Theatre Winter Haven, Polk Museum of Art, and the Florida Children’s Museum at Bonnet Springs Park. Three days of interactive storytelling fun that promises to captivate hearts and ignite imaginations. Presented by the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance. centralfloridatix.com
Feb. 24 from 9 am – 5 pm and Feb. 25 from noon – 4 pm. Presented by the Lake Wales Arts Council, this festival showcases the talents of up to 100 fine artists and artisans set against the picturesque backdrop of the shores of Lake Wailes. lakewalesartscouncil.org
Feb. 10, 7:30 am – 1:30 pm at Publix Field. This is an all-youcare-to-eat pancake and sausage breakfast, served up by leaders in the community, in support of several charities in Polk County. More info at citruscenterkiwanis.org.
Feb. 13, 7:30 pm at Branscomb Auditorium. In honor of Black History Month, The Florida Southern College Jazz Program will feature classic compositions by the greatest Black Jazz composers. For more information, call 863-6804296. flsouthern.edu/ffa. Free.
POLK AT NITE
SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW
SPRING TRAINING
LAKELAND RECORD FAIR
RODNEY CROWELL
Feb. 15, 5 – 8 pm at the Polk Museum of Art. Celebrate date night with fine art, cocktails, small bites, and music with exclusive access to Polk Museum’s new exhibit, Rockwell/ Wyeth: Icons of Americana. centralfloridatix.com
Feb. 17, 3:30 – 5:30 pm beginning at the Bike Shop of Winter Haven. A free, family-friendly event. Leisurely roll through downtown Winter Haven to Lake Silver to watch the Cypress Gardens Ski Team show. Then, roll back through town to Grove Roots. Sign up on FB @slowrollskishow.
The Detroit Tigers are back at Publix Field in Lakeland! Feb. 24 they play the Yankees; Feb. 26 they play the Astros; Feb. 27 they play the Blue Jays. Games begin at 1:05 pm. Purchase tickets in advance at mlb.com/tigers/spring-training.
Feb. 25, 10 am – 4 pm at Rec Room in Lakeland. Shop with lots of vendors selling new and used LPs, CDs, cassette tapes, memorabilia, and more! The fun continues with a local DJ and food vendors. Presented by Jesse Carl Vinyl. More info on FB @JesseCarlVinyl.
Feb. 27, 7 pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down with special guest Jedd Hughes. Rodney Crowell is the songwriter’s songwriter and an icon among giants. Native Texan, Crowell is a multi-Grammy Awardwinning troubadour with fifteen number-one hits. Purchase tickets in advance at gpderrydown.com.
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ORLANDO TOP 10 MLK CONCERT Feb. 2, 7 pm at the Dr. Phillips Center. Admission is free, seating is first-come, first-served, not guaranteed. “Through the Storm, I Need You to Survive!” is produced and directed by Grammy Award Winner, Dr. Jeffrey Redding. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for UP – United Against Poverty. drphillipscenter.org
CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
WHISKEY BUSINESS
THE SECOND CITY
Feb. 16, 7 – 10 pm at The Plaza Live. Taste 75+ whiskeys, spirits and cocktails. Plus craft beer, wine, and bites from top Orlando restaurants. Guests will enjoy live music, performances, and local vendors. VIP tickets available for an additional charge. orlandoweeklytickets.com/events
Feb. 23 & 24 at Dr. Phillips Center. Join the next generation of comedy superstars as they mash up Second City’s greatest hits and brand-new material along with their signature improvisation in this hilarious show. Sensory Friendly Show: Feb. 24 at 2 pm. drphillipscenter.org
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Feb. 2 – 4 at the Fringe ArtSpace. The story of a gifted boy named Christopher. He investigates the killing of his neighbor’s dog and in doing so, has an adventure of selfdiscovery. Performed by The William Daniel Mills Theatre Company. orlandofringe.org
2024 U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS
MARDI GRAS FLOAT RIDE & DINE
PURPLE PRIDE 5K
Feb. 3. 10:00 am. The marathon course starts and finishes in downtown Orlando. It consists of one 2.2-mile loop and three 8-mile loops. Spectators are encouraged to come together and line the streets to cheer on the runners. There will be both free and ticketed spectator viewing options. orlando2024trials.com
Feb. 3 – April 7 at Universal Orlando. Get a reserved spot on a parade float and toss beads to the crowd. It’s the best way to guarantee your place in the parade. Plus, enjoy a 3-course meal selected from the full menu at one of four participating restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort. universalorlando.com
Feb. 10, 8 am at Exploria Stadium. Each participant will receive one ticket to the 2024 Orlando City Home Opener. Post-race activities will include a race DJ, complimentary refreshments, on-field photo opportunities, and interactive games and giveaways for the entire family. runsignup.com
WINTER GARDEN MUSIC FESTIVAL
KIDS NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
EPCOT INT’L FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL
Feb. 24, 11 am – 10 pm in downtown Winter Garden. This FREE multistage outdoor concert features entertainment and musical genres performing continuously and simultaneously for 11 hours. A fun event for all ages, bring a chair. cwgdn.com
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Feb. 24, 5:30 – 10 pm at the Orlando Science Center. Youth aged 5 to 12 years old are invited to explore exhibits, experience enhanced programming, and enjoy a pizza dinner in age-appropriate groups. They will also participate in hands-on activities and see an interactive Live Science Show or film. Register in advance. osc.org
Feb. 28 – May 27. See topiary sculptures of Disney characters, and admire thousands of flowers that form colorful, living panoramas. Discover an array of Outdoor Kitchens around EPCOT, each serving a specialty menu of festivalinspired sips and bites. disneyworld.disney.go.com
TAMPA TOP 10 CARLTON WARD JR: PATH OF THE PANTHER
CUPID’S UNDIE RUN
Through March 17 at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMOPA). This captivating exhibition celebrates our state animal – the Florida panther. Photos by Carlton Ward Jr., a National Geographic Explorer and photographer who has spent almost two decades fighting for the Florida Wildlife Corridor. fmopa.org
Feb. 3, noon at Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill in St. Pete. Thousands of undie runners across the U.S. come together to support those affected by NF, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. The run begins with drinking and dancing. Register online. my.cupids.org
MONSTER JAM
GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL
Feb. 10 & 11 at Raymond James Stadium. Unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable, Monster Jam features world-class drivers competing for championships on dirt tracks that push these ever-evolving, state-of-the-art trucks to the limit. raymondjamesstadium.com
Feb. 16 – 18 at the Julian B Lane Riverfront Park. Featuring musical acts from various genres on several stages and food from top restaurants. The Gasparilla Music Foundation is a Florida 501(c)-3 non-profit corporation that supports music education through its Recycled Tunes program. gasparillamusic.com
ST. PETE INDIE FLEA Feb. 4, noon – 4 pm at The Factory St. Pete. Shop the best St. Pete has to offer in locally made and curated hand-crafted goods, vintage housewares, mid-century furniture, vintage clothing, antiques, plants, food, music, art and so much more. theindieflea.com
BLACK HISTORY MONTH RECEPTION Feb. 23, 5:30 pm at the Tampa Bay History Center. This is an evening of inspiration, recognition, and cultural celebration. Featuring guest speaker Senator Arthenia Joyner, a trailblazing leader whose contributions have greatly impacted history. tampabayhistorycenter.org
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VICTORIAN VALENTINE MAKING
MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL
Feb. 4, 1 – 3 pm at Oxford Exchange. Materials will be provided, participants are encouraged to bring a special photograph, an old postcard, or a scrap of lace to personalize. Tea and light fare will be provided by Oxford Exchange. Call Melissa to reserve your spot(s) at 813-258-7304.
Feb. 7 – 18 at the Straz Center. Winner of 10 Tony Awards® including Best Musical. Baz Luhrmann’s film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. A celebration of love, Moulin Rouge! is more than a musical, it is a state of mind. strazcenter.org
YANKEES SPRING TRAINING
FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
Begins Feb. 25 against the Toronto Blue Jays at the George M. Steinbrenner Field. Feb. 26 against the Minnesota Twins and Feb. 29 against the Miami Marlins. The Pinstripe Pass is available. mlb.com/ yankees/tickets/spring-training
Feb. 29 – March 10 from 10 am – 10 pm in Plant City. Strawberry lovers will enjoy exhibits of agriculture, fine arts, horticulture, and crafts. Try strawberry focused foods, hear some of the biggest names in entertainment, and more. flstrawberryfestival.com
fancy farms market
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
“I think between December and January, that’s when the berries taste the best,” according to Fancy Farms Market co-owner Kristi Grooms-Barnes. Hailing from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the nation, growing from Thanksgiving through Easter, Fancy Farms is approaching the height of its season – Valentine’s Day. What’s better than gifting your Valentine fresh chocolate covered strawberries? Each season, thousands of people travel to their acres and acres of green dotted with bright red Sweet Sensations, Medallions, Brilliance, and White Pineberries for a taste of Fancy Farms’ fresh, homemade strawberry treats.
The idea behind the market was another avenue to sell their strawberries beyond commercially at grocery store chains. Fancy Farms has been a grower partner with the century-old Wish Farms for over 35 years. “My grandfather brought vegetables to the Wishnatzki’s when they used to do produce in the early days when they came to Florida. […] It’s a family affair. We’re all connected here in the agricultural industry,” said Grooms-Barnes. “My mom has always baked and cooked everything strawberry. We have all these family recipes that we constantly share with our friends and family,” she added. The decision to launch Fancy Farms Market was made in 2019, though they didn’t open the doors until December 2020. “It was unbelievably successful,” Grooms-Barnes said. “It was almost a movement. People want to know where their food comes from. They want to come out to the farms; they want to see where it’s grown.”
It’s the 50th crop year for Fancy Farms founders Carl and Dee Dee Grooms. The pair started their strawberry farm in 1974 with just 18 acres in Plant City. “My dad farmed with his dad. It was in his blood,” said daughter Kristi Grooms-Barnes. Over the years, the family acquired more property and reached around 250 acres at their crest. Today, they operate a commercial strawberry farm and roadside market offering seasonal desserts, local produce, and fresh flowers on 135 acres across Hillsborough and Polk Counties.
Alongside their farm-fresh strawberries, the market offers strawberry shortcakes, cobbler, cookies, bread, and hand-spun milkshakes. “All the recipes are homemade right here at the market,” Grooms-Barnes said. They started baking out of a modest 14x24 foot shed they’d converted into a commercial kitchen. After the first year, they expanded their bakery space at the market.
Joining Carl and Dee Dee are their son, Dustin Grooms, and daughter, Kristi Grooms-Barnes. Dustin went into the military for eight years before returning to the family farm. “I like the challenge of it. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. I like the challenge of coming out here every day being an entrepreneur, doing the best I can,” Dustin Grooms said.
“My mom and my aunt have trained all the ladies that work for me on the recipes. They know all of our family recipes backward and forwards, just like my momma and my family do,” she said.
After graduating from college, Kristi went into marketing and advertising. She worked in Tampa for 18 years for a company specializing in real estate marketing. About four years ago, she decided to come back to what she knew – strawberries. “I wanted to come back to my family roots and help my brother and continue the legacy that my parents have built here,” she said. “I missed being here. I missed being around my family.” Aunts and uncles help at the farm and market. “It really is a farming family,” Grooms-Barnes said. “My dad has a motto, ‘Since 1974 and still learning.’”
“Everything is homemade here, and everything is fresh. The strawberries we use in our milkshakes are picked in the morning and processed to go directly into our milkshakes when we hand blend them — same thing with our strawberry shortcake. Nothing is frozen. It’s all fresh that day. It creates a different taste in your desserts because you get that tartness with the strawberry followed by that burst of sweetness.” Last year, they outgrew their bakery space again and built a third kitchen with the intention of serving lunch. “God has evolved this into something I had no idea. It’s been remarkable, and I’m very blessed,” said Grooms-Barnes. They launched a three-item lunch menu last month with a chicken salad croissant sandwich made with homemade sweet pickle relish, a strawberry BBQ pork sandwich, and Dee Dee’s famous strawberry walnut salad served on a bed of romaine lettuce dressed in homemade strawberry vinaigrette.
About ten years ago, the Grooms looked to retire and sold off property, ready to close shop. Dustin was the first one to raise his hand that he wanted to continue their legacy. Four years ago, “He and I came up with this idea to start this little roadside market,” said Grooms-Barnes.
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U-pick is scheduled for February 17 at their Plant City farm. It’s their biggest fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds going to the 4H program.
“In the army, they taught to crawl, walk, run. That’s kind of what we’re doing with this, but the crawl part started as a trot. Each year, we plan on building and building. Who knows where it will evolve, but we definitely want to get into the education side of it to educate our youth on where food comes from and how it’s grown,” said Dustin Grooms.
Eventually the Grooms hope to start a more structured educational program inviting school children to learn how food gets onto their plate from planting a cover crop during the summer which puts nutrients back into the soil to irrigation and laying the plastic.
“My parents have been huge advocates over the years for educating youth,” Grooms-Barnes said. Fancy Farms is a regular supporter of the Hillsborough County 4H program. They’ve hosted an annual U-pick fundraiser for the group for several decades. This year, the Hillsborough County 4H Annual
According to Grooms-Barnes, “There’s a lot that goes into farming. I’d love to start a program to bring kids in and teach them that.” - CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 -
Dee Dee and Carl Grooms 1976
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Downtown Winter Haven. Eat, Drink, Chill & Make Moments! havenmagazines.com
ideas@sixtenllc.com 18
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863.299.1195
When strawberry season ends, the Fancy Farms Market menu changes. “We completely change the menu throughout each season to keep it fresh,” said Grooms-Barnes. Desserts change to blueberry, blackberry, and peach. While enjoying fresh blackberry cobbler, market-goers can enjoy, pick, and take photos in an endless field of sunflowers and zinnias. “It is unbelievably beautiful,” she said. Flower season is mid-May through the end of June, when they close for the summer through November.
They only get off during the harvesting season when it’s raining. “That doesn’t mean that the truck didn’t break down, that you need to work on the tractor, that you’re going to be doing paperwork. You’re going to be working on something. Every day, something needs to be done on the farm. It never stops, it never sleeps, it doesn’t know if you are sick, or if it’s a vacation or a holiday,” Dustin said. “Strawberries are a very perishable crop. It’s all done by hand. It is a very labor-intensive crop.” Each of their three million strawberry bushes are hand-planted, and it takes 21 days for the berries to grow. They pick from the same bush every two to three days.
JUICY STRAWBERRY FACTS:
The hard work isn’t done alone, however. Most farmers in Plant City are part of The Florida Strawberry Grower’s Association. Carl Grooms was one of five men to start the organization in the 80s. Its function is to help growers battle diseases, create new varieties, learn agricultural laws, and everything in between. According to FSGA, “Like all farmers, Florida strawberry growers struggle with the same issues and risks associated with food safety, economic stability and government regulations. That’s why FSGA provides access to research, resources and support that help growers proactively make their farms more efficient and competitive in the marketplace.” The organization also works in conjunction with the University of Florida to develop and crossbreed strawberries to produce the firmest berries with the best flavor that can ship across the nation – all traits the consumer looks for. There are about 80 members, with approximately 15,000 acres of strawberries grown in Hillsborough County.
Strawberries are in the rose family Strawberries contain more vitamin C than oranges Americans eat roughly seven pounds of strawberries per year You eat about 200 seeds with every strawberry February 27 is National Strawberry Day Fancy Farms Market 5204 Drane Field Rd, Lakeland (813) 478-3486 FB: Fancy Farms Market IG @fancyfarmsmarket Fancyfarmsmarket.com
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Orange Blossom Child Jon pulls a CD from his coat pocket and invites us to listen to his seminal ’60s country rock recording from Bradley’s Barn in Nashville. We listen to one song, then another. “Play one more, would you,” he says. Of course, we oblige.
The soul of country rock and roll lives down the street from me Do you feel that swaying kick drum Pulsing on the heat The mighty heron soars across Lines of gold and blue Close your eyes Let your hands keep time To the sky king’s wingin’ beat
THE ALBUM Plating was sonically inspired by Florida country rock and roll for her latest album, Orange Blossom Child. She filled her well with the likes of Gram Parsons, the Flying Burrito Brothers, Jon Corneal’s timeless beat on Sweetheart of the Rodeo, and a heavy dose of Tom Petty. Her literary inspirations remain unchanged – Wendell Berry, Patti Smith, Mary Oliver. “I translated that syntax and that sort of rhythm of speech into scenes from here,” she said.
“You inspired that,” Van Plating says to Jon Corneal. “It’s always nice to get a good report,” he says back, smiling.
From road names to nature, Plating paid homage to her homeland. “I wanted to do it in a way that if you weren’t from here, they’re catchy songs that you’d want to listen to, hopefully over and over again.”
“Agreed,” says Van. Track number nine comes on – “Zion is a Woman.”
Her aim? To shed a light on the region’s storied musical past. “A lot of folks don’t know how much rich history there is here, in Florida specifically, in Roots music,” she said.
“This is you,” Van looks at Jon. Van is dressed to kill, per usual. Wild wavy hair frames her face, tamed only by a cowboy hat. She wears a pair of vintage boots. Jon’s in a red leather coat and black boots embroidered with green filigree. He sports a black cowboy hat, red bandana, and silver bolo tie. He taps his feet to the old-school rhythm and sips a Coke. Jon’s ‘better than a metronome’ timing sets the pace for Van’s angelic Americana vocals. “Who’s your steel player?” he asks, followed by, “Your voice sounds nice.”
The album’s sound is current, with threads from the past laced throughout each lyric, each song. There are 32 collaborators alongside the southern songstress on the album. “I didn’t realize how many people were on the album until I started making the credits,” she said. Plating arranged, edited, and produced everything, working remotely with collaborators. “It’s a really different process than anything I’ve done before,” she said. She’d dress the skeleton of a song in pedal steel, electric guitar, or organ as she saw fit for the tune.
The pioneer of country rock drumming and the Americana music rising star are separated by time, united by tempo, and tap their feet in sync.
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“There’s beauty in every kind of approach you can have with making art. It was interesting, though, doing it layer by layer like that. It had to be a really organic process.”
Nervous but determined, Plating approached Corneal after his set one Friday. She said she was a fan and wanted to get to know him a little better. “Jon is always down for anything I’ve since learned,” she said.
A few years ago, before releasing Orange Blossom Child, Plating predicted of her future album, “It’ll sound kind of live, a little grittier than what I’ve done before. It’ll be me, so it’ll be raw and colorful, and hopefully, people will get it – we’ll see.”
The following week, the pair grabbed lunch at Mega Mercado. Plating listened intently for hours to Corneal’s stories. She worked up the nerve and asked if he’d collaborate with her. “I’m always honored when somebody asks,” Corneal said. “That means I’ve still got my chops.”
She feels the same today. “It was a lot grittier because I had the vocal production in my own hands. No one was there to try and make me pretty or polish me up or make me sing a little softer.” Even today, women in the studio are tediously managed. “I didn’t want that because it takes away from the emotion of your performance if everything is pretty. Life isn’t pretty all the time.”
They headed to St. Pete to record Corneal’s drumming for “Zion is a Woman” and “Joel Called the Ravens.” “The way he plays drums is so different from a modern drummer,” Plating said. “His patterns, his phrasing – it’s so specific to him.” Once she returned to the studio with his parts in hand, “It completely changed the entire song. […] What ended up resulting in those two songs is something I never would have come up with by myself.”
Storytelling is like breathing for Van Plating. This album’s Americana charm and southern grit tell true stories of heartbreak and healing, hard times and joyful moments. “I wanted to take all of those universal experiences, but I wanted to dial it into something that was honest.”
“It’s always fun,” Corneal said. “You never know what’s going to happen in the studio. You go in there aiming for magic and do the best you can.”
Country rock pioneer Jon Corneal plays drums on two tracks. “I saw his interview in Haven and that was right around the same time I’d gotten this little germ of an idea to do something about who I am, where I’m from,” said Plating. “I had no idea that an original Flying Burrito Brother was playing at Hillcrest every Friday.”
Orange Blossom Child is magic — an amalgamation of past and present. Central Florida country rock revived – set to the rhythm of a living legend. Like the song “Hole in My Chest,” this album evokes big feelings.
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Provided
Author Bob Kealing’ s “Good Day Sunshine State” Join Edward R. Murrow and four-time Emmy award-winning broadcast journalist and author Bob Kealing at the Winter Haven Public Library exactly sixty years to the afternoon when The Beatles arrived in Florida. Part of the library’s “Music Near & Far” 2024 lecture series, Kealing will discuss his most recent book, “Good Day Sunshine State: How The Beatles Rocked Florida,” on Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30pm.
Kerouac shared with his mother in 1957 and 1958. In 1997, Kealing penned a four-thousand-word article about the cottage for The Orlando Sentinel, sparking what would become the Kerouac Project. An all-but-forgotten abode twenty-something years ago, the Kerouac house is now a fully restored home on the National Register of Historic Places. An ongoing writers-in-residence program is hosted there. In 2004, Kealing published the book, “Kerouac in Florida: Where the Road Ends.”
During his years as a deadline reporter, Kealing became interested in stories one could hang onto. His interest was particularly piqued by Central Florida’s pre-Disney history.
Kealing went on to write about the early life of the father of Cosmic American Music, Gram Parsons, in “Calling Me Home: Gram Parsons and the Roots of Country Rock” (2015), followed by “Life of the Party: The Remarkable Story of How Brownie Wise Built, and Lost, a Tupperware Party Empire” (2016) and finally, “Elvis Ignited: The Rise of an Icon in Florida” (2017).
In the mid-nineties, working as a freelance writer and reporter with the Orlando NBC television affiliate, Kealing began investigating novelist and poet Jack Kerouac. He learned about a then-dilapidated Orlando cottage
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Early last year, Kealing released “Good Day Sunshine State: How The Beatles Rocked Florida.” In addition to abundant transcripts, letters, and primarysource interviews, the book delves into the band’s residency at the Deauville Hotel in Miami Beach, where they performed to a live television audience of 70 million and wrote songs for their A Hard Day’s Night album. “I would argue it’s one of the top two or three Beatles landmarks in the United States,” said the author. Kealing was the youngest of six and would listen to his sister’s Beatles vinyl album. “Growing up in the 70s, as other kids were listening to the band of the day, I’m listening to Revolver and watching A Hard Day’s Night. So, I got a true indoctrination into Beatles music not long after they broke up and I’ve loved them ever since,” he said. The Beatles’ time in Florida is significant for many reasons. They spent more time here than anywhere else in North America during the watershed year of 1964. Kealing’s book examines three aspects of The Beatles’ Sunshine State sojourn – influence, activism, and innocence. “Their influence on really important Rock and Roll Hall of Famers who grew up in Florida is also a big part of the story,” noted Kealing. The Beatles inspired artists from Tom Petty and The Allman Brothers Band to Winter Haven’s own Gram Parsons. An interview the author will never forget was with Tom Petty’s best friend and Mudcrutch bandmate Tom Leadon. “That was so important to listen to the seismic effect of [Petty] seeing the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show,” he said. The band’s first bout of activism in the United States took place at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, where they took the firm stance that if their concert was segregated, they wouldn’t play. “That was a risky stand to take, but they did,” said Kealing. Because of a series of legal precedents set by a heroic Jacksonville judge, which Kealing outlines in significant detail in the book, a segregated concert wasn’t an issue for The Beatles. “By the time The Beatles concert came around, segregation was outlawed, and integration was the law of the land.” Kealing’s book features dozens of primary source interviews. He spoke with the entire Life Magazine team, who took the iconic photograph of The Beatles in the swimming pool, which went on to be a cover shot. “I talked to John Loengard, the photographer who took that picture, and got his story where he thought it was a lousy photo at first. And now, it is one of the iconic pictures of The Beatles,” said Kealing. He interviewed Lillian Walker-Moss with The Exciters of “Tell Him” fame about her experiences as an African American in the South while The Beatles were touring. Legendary guitarist Reggie Young shares stories about opening for the band, and Lofton “Coffee” Butler talks about jamming with them in Key West. Kealing’s talk will be the third event in the library’s lecture series. He will give a lecture and a PowerPoint presentation. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Doors open approximately 30 minutes prior to the event. Printed tickets are not required to attend, however registration is required. “I’m so excited to see all the street improvements and the new hotel there. That makes it even more of a fun and interesting backdrop,” said Kealing. “The fact that it will be exactly sixty years to the day that The Beatles came to Florida is really meaningful.” EVENT DETAILS Where: Winter Haven Public Library Multi-Purpose Room When: Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 5:30pm Register at mywinterhaven.com
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Mike & Mike’ s Desserts
As a child, Mike & Mike’s Desserts Co-owner and CGO Mike Mitchell spent his time measuring and mixing with his mother in the kitchen – making her signature red velvet cupcakes. “He saw the love that his mom was passing along in every bite,” according to his story online. From helping his mother early on, “I understood this from a deep level,” Mitchell said. He launched Mike & Mike’s Desserts in Miami while attending school for his Bachelor of Arts degree. He initially used his mom’s recipes but transitioned to dairy-, nut-, and egg-free cupcakes. He looked at the market and saw a need for ‘free-from’ desserts that tasted just as good – if not better – than traditional baked goods. “I flipped her recipes to make it inclusive for everybody to taste,” he said. These school-friendly cupcakes are the perfect choice for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions. They’re made with intentional ingredients like oats and plant-based derivatives. Mike & Mike’s initially started with 12 flavors but dialed it into the classics, their current flavors – Strawberry 2-Step, Vanilla Beanie, and Chocolate Delight. In the future, they plan to add limited-release and seasonal flavors. The branding stems from Mike’s alter ego, “Mike-Moji.” “As a Black founder, I find profound liberation and self-expression through my art,” he noted. “His life began with my pencil sketch, and my alter ego came to life. Through him I can explore emotions and narratives that deeply resonate with me.” Baking out of a smaller kitchen, the launch was so successful that Mike & Mike’s Desserts made it into South Florida’s Milam’s Market. Demand grew, and Mitchell moved the operation to a commissary kitchen. Mitchell couldn’t keep up with the demand and took a year to put suitable infrastructure in place. That’s when he reached out to his childhood pal, Nate Kendrick. Kendrick, now the co-owner and CEO of Mike & Mike’s Desserts, went to Lakeland High School with Mitchell. The pair met in the lunchroom and became fast friends. Kendrick has been a serial entrepreneur since he was a kid selling cookies. He went on to attend school at the University of Central Florida and started several businesses, including a social media marketing company, and launched a product on Amazon before joining forces with Mitchell. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 -
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Mike Mitchell and Nate Kendrick
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“When Mike called me about a product, I thought I could take the skillset of social media and selling something from a product component and combine both of those resources,” said Kendrick. “The pitch Mike made to me was if we can make it taste just as good if not better than the artificial cupcakes, there’s something we have here.” Baking thousands of cupcakes in a commissary kitchen became costprohibitive for the start-up. That’s when Mitchell stumbled upon the concept of co-manufacturing, in which a business signs over their recipe through a nondisclosure agreement to a small- or large-scale manufacturer whose purpose is to manufacture that recipe to scale. According to Kendrick, it took almost a year and some change to work out the kinks. “It’s hard to scale cupcakes. Almost impossible,” he said. Mitchell and Kendrick started working to secure a co-manufacturer daily at Catapult, Lakeland’s business development co-working space. A Catapult associate knew of a potential co-manufacturer, which became their first, helping them launch into Chamberlin’s Natural Foods. From there, Mike & Mike’s Desserts got into Publix GreenWise. In 2021, the friends pitched their sweet treats to Publix (where they had both worked at one time) and got into all their grocery stores. “It was a massive accomplishment,” said Kendrick. Mitchell added, “It was a full circle moment.” “No one in the market currently is making a product like that at scale with super high-quality ingredients, very intentional from top to bottom,” said Kendrick. “Traditionally, vegan or free-from doesn’t taste good. People feel like they’re compromising.” They’ve crafted a product everyone craves, not just ‘free-from’ consumers. Mike & Mike’s is currently the only company in the market using their own cupcake blend. “We were really intentional with making a blend that was unique to where it almost tastes like it was baked at home even though it’s at scale,” Kendrick said. “There’s nothing crazy in this. They’re just normal ingredients that are better for you.” Looking towards the future of their very tasty venture, Mitchell hopes to “push the boundaries of what people think of vegan or ‘free-from,’ what they can taste like, and make people feel like they’re not sacrificing for something that’s an alternative. Trying to push that to the limit.” Kendrick called it an education process – changing the perspective on freefrom foods. The pair hopes to disrupt the baking industry and inspire other minorities to follow their dreams. Find Mike & Mike’s Desserts in the Bakery freezer at all Publix locations. Mike & Mike’s Desserts Mikeandmikesdesserts.com FB: Mike & Mikes Desserts IG @mikeandmikesdesserts
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Save a Life in the New Year:
Spay/Neuter Program “Hi, I’m Sheriff Grady Judd reaching out to you to support the Sheriff Grady Judd Spay and Neuter Program. Our goal for 2024 is to provide LOW cost and NO cost spay and neuter services for 4,000 personal pets throughout Polk County.” Please support SPCA Florida’s efforts by donating generously. Together, we can end the suffering that comes from unwanted litters.
Visit www.spcaflorida.org/spayneuter to support the program. Your help matters! 5850 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland FL 33813 • 863-646-7722 • www.spcaflorida.org
Where Central Florida Fun Is Found. New to Florida’s Sweetest Spot? Swing by the Welcome Center. Home of the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation Hall of Fame Museum. 1-800-828-7655 | VisitCentralFlorida.com. havenmagazines.com
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FOR DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS, SCAN THE QR CODE TO SEE THE POLK SAVINGS PASS.
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cherry on top 2 ounces vodka 1 ounce lemon juice 1 ounce maraschino cherry juice 1 egg white cherries to garnish In a cocktail shaker, add vodka, lemon juice, cherry juice, and egg white. Shake until a froth has formed. Add ice and shake again. Strain into a cute glass & garnish with cherries. Ages 21+ only. Mocktail: mix lemonade & cherry juice, shake, pour into a cute glass & garnish.
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WORDS Daryl Ward, PhD Executive Director, Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance
PHOTOGRAPH Provided
A New Year, A New Festival Polk County is fortunate to have so many wonderful arts festivals. From the Swan City Jazz Festival to the Lake Wales Arts Festival, to Winter Haven’s Central Park Art Festival, there are numerous opportunities to peruse fantastic visual art or hear great music. What’s missing, however, is a literary festival. When I first became Executive Director of the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance, I wanted PACA to produce arts and cultural events that were missing from our wonderful arts and cultural landscape – think Shakespeare-in-the-Park, or a children’s book festival. This month, we’re taking a small step towards that goal with the first-ever Polk Tales: A Storytelling Festival.
Danielle Ziss and Bobby Wesley, who host Orlando Story Club events, are also excited to be bringing this artform to Polk County. “It’s an honor to participate in building connections via storytelling across central Florida,” Ziss said. “Watching relationships form after an audience engages in a teller’s story is such a rewarding experience. Some of my closest friends were made at OSC shows,” she added. Polk Tales: A Storytelling Festival will be the first time the OSC storytelling team has performed in Polk. Strickland, who will conclude the festival with Sharktooth Sam at the Florida Children’s Museum on Sunday, encourages patrons to attend as many of the festival performances as possible. “Every performance is a little different. I always adapt the telling of the stories a bit – on the fly – to best communicate the most important things within that story to that specific set of listeners,” he said. “It’s an interactive artform, but you as an audience member don’t have to do anything but be present and listen, and be willing to let me take you on a story.”
Working with Rogue Stage and the Orlando Story Club, we’re excited to announce that nationally recognized storyteller, Paul Strickland will be joining us for three days of interactive storytelling fun. The festival kicks off on February 9 at 8 pm in the Ghostlight Lounge at Theatre Winter Haven with Paul performing a solo set of stories that are sure to ignite your imagination. The next evening, February 10, Strickland returns with some special guests to the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland for a 5 pm performance. Joining Strickland will be members of the Orlando Story Club and Thom Mesrobian, performing as Sharktooth Sam. Wrapping up the weekend festivities will be a children’s storytelling concert at the Florida Children’s Museum at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland. That event begins at 1 pm.
Find out more about the inaugural Polk Tales: A Storytelling Festival at polkarts.org/story. Ghostlight Lounge at Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
Strickland, who originally wanted to be a songwriter, has come to see storytelling as a vital part of our communities. “We live in a time of apartness,” Strickland said. “People spend so much time ‘alone’ on our devices.” This “aloneness” Strickland noted often runs counter to our communal nature. “We are social creatures. And taking in a story in a group setting is a part of an ancient experience. There’s something truly unifying in that collective experience,” he said.
Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland Florida Children’s Museum 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland
Thom Mesrobian, who has performed on numerous local stages in Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Orlando also recognizes the value a storytelling festival brings to Polk County. “I started Rogue Stage because I know just how much people need to hear stories. It’s the core of our human experience, and I can’t wait to see it blossom here in Polk County,” he said.
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Check Me Out ;)
Compiled by the staff of the Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland
THE HEAVEN & EARTH GROCERY STORE By James McBride When a skeleton is unearthed in the small, close-knit community of Chicken Hill, Pennsylvania, in 1972, an unforgettable cast of characters—living on the margins of white, Christian America—closely guard a secret, especially when the truth is revealed about what happened and the part the town’s white establishment played in it.
OPPOSITE OF ALWAYS By Justin A. Reynolds When Jack and Kate meet at a party, bonding until sunrise over their mutual love of Froot Loops and their favorite flicks, Jack knows he’s falling—hard. Soon she’s meeting his best friends, Jillian and Franny, and Kate wins them over as easily as she did Jack. But then Kate dies and Jack finds himself transported back to when they first met.
LET US DESCEND By Jesmyn Ward In the years before the Civil War, Annis, sold South by the white enslaver who fathered her, struggles through the miles-long march, seeks comfort from memories of her mother and stories of her African warrior grandmother, opening herself to a world beyond this world.
ME AND THE FAMILY TREE By Carole Boston Weatherford As a young girl reflects on her family, she notices how her characteristics are similar to those around her. She discovers these shared traits create incredible family connections, and they also give each person the opportunity to contribute to the family tree.
A LOVE SONG FOR RICKI WILDE By Tia Williams Leaving behind her socialite family in Atlanta, Ricki Wilde moves to New York to open a flower shop as the Harlem Renaissance swirls around her, in the new novel from the author of “Seven Days in June.”
TRISTAN STRONG PUNCHES A HOLE IN THE SKY By Kwame Mbalia Tristan Strong is struggling with guilt after his best friend’s death. Tristan accidentally creates a rift that transports him to Alke, a parallel world where myths are real, and must survive the evil forces that threaten Alke’s people and discover his own abilities.
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Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Ave, Lakeland lakelandgov.net
CHAIN GANG ALL STARS By Nana Kwame AdjeiBrenyah
BLACK AF HISTORY: THE UN-WHITEWASHED STORY OF AMERICA By Michael Harriot
The star of a popular, but controversial for-profit program in the private prison industry that basically turns prisoners into gladiators, contemplates freedom. This new novel is from the New York Times best-selling author of “Friday Black.”
The acclaimed columnist and political commentator presents a sharp and often hilarious retelling of American history that focuses on the overlooked contribution of Black Americans and corrects the idea that American history is white history.
PRESIDENT OF THE WHOLE FIFTH GRADE By Sherri Winston
AMARA’S FARM By JaNay Brown-Wood
When Brianna’s hero, the famous celebrity chef Miss Delicious, speaks at her school and traces her own success back to being president of her fifth-grade class, she determines she must do the same. But when another student announces she is also running for president, Brianna learns that she may have more competition than she expected.
Amara is hosting a potluck for friends on her farm, and her snacks won’t be complete without pumpkins. She’s searched and searched, but she’s grown so many plants that she needs help finding them. What do we know about pumpkins? They’re large, round, and orange– and, wait a minute, is that a pumpkin? No, that’s an apple. Where, oh, where could those pumpkins be?
WORDS Shannon Carnevale Natural Resources and Conservation Extension Agent UF/IFAS Extension Polk County
PHOTOGRAPH UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones
Navigating El Niño: What It Means for Polk County’ s Dry Season As winter unfolds, a special guest, El Niño, is set to influence our weather patterns significantly. Known for altering weather on a global scale, El Niño’s effects have been felt right here in Polk County throughout January. At the time that I’m writing this, we are expecting a strong El Niño to continue for the next several months… at least. WHAT IS EL NIÑO? El Niño and its opposite climatic effect, La Niña, tend to cycle on and off every 6-8 years on average. El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterized by the warming of ocean waters in the central and eastern Pacific. This warming significantly impacts regional weather patterns, often leading to increased rainfall in certain parts of the world, including Central Florida. This year, El Niño’s presence is particularly strong, signaling a potentially cooler and wetter “dry season” than we have seen in years and, if it lasts through the spring and summer, a calmer than usual hurricane season. Currently, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting El Niño to last through April of this year and predicting that it may reach historic strength this cycle. You can learn more about current El Niño and La Niña, here: climate.gov/enso. IMPACT ON WILDLIFE AND ECOSYSTEMS The excess rainfall brought on by El Niño can create a domino effect on local wildlife and ecosystems. In our wetlands and marshes, the additional water can provide a boon for waterfowl, amphibians, and other species that rely on these habitats. However, it’s not all positive news; too much water can disrupt nesting patterns and displace smaller, ground-
dwelling creatures if the waters stay high and are followed by an active rainy season. Consistently wet and rainy weather can also increase microbial action and spur additional fruiting cycles by a variety of fungi. This means you may notice more mushrooms than normal, additional fairy circles, or if you garden, additional mold, and mildew issues. LOCAL HYDROLOGICAL EFFECTS In Polk County, the average rainfall for December and January stands at 2.1 – 2.3 inches, respectively. December was a little higher than average at 2.55 inches at my house, but rainfall in January has already exceeded 3 inches! At the time of writing there is more than a week left in January and the forecast is calling for another front of storms this weekend. This increase in precipitation can have various effects on our local hydrology. Our lakes, crucial for recreational activities like boating, are already experiencing higher-thanaverage water levels. In Lakeland and most of Polk County, these higher lake levels are likely presenting as clearer-than-usual water and higher-than-average shorelines. In Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes, increased rainfall can more directly influence boating recreation due to higher water levels in the canals that connect the chain. In drier years, when rainfall is scant during the rainy season, a wet winter is a welcome sight because without it the canal levels can be so low that it inhibits boat travel. When lake levels are high from a normal or above-normal rainy season, a wet winter helps keep the lakes “topped off” through the dry season.
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Just because we have high water now, doesn’t mean we always will. We still need to conserve water in times of plenty.
CAN THE CHAIN OF LAKES GET “TOO FULL”? The Chain of Lakes water levels are generally managed by Lake Region Lakes Management District, also known as Canal Commission, locally. There is a “control structure” on south Lake Lulu which operates much like the overflow preventer on your household bathtub. Once the lake levels reach a certain point, it overflows into the Peace Creek Drainage Canal and sends excess water downriver.
Consider the following suggestions for conservation this season: 1. Reduce your irrigation schedule or install a rain sensor for your system: Naturally, our lawns and yards use less water and grow slower during winter. With the added rain, you may not need to use your irrigation at all! UF/IFAS research suggests ½ inch every other week of rain or irrigation is all you need in the cooler months.
If lake levels are generally high and already flowing into the Peace Creek Drainage Canal at the beginning of hurricane season, then the Southwest Florida Water Management District may ask the Canal Commission to reduce lake levels by allowing additional water over the control structure.
2. Enjoy our wetlands and lakes: These havens for wildlife activity are at their best and most beautiful, in my opinion, in winter or early spring of El Niño years. When the cypress trees are bronzed or bare, the insect activity is lower, and the air is crisp. It’s time for a hike at Circle B or a sunset happy hour on the water!
The goal of this action is to make room in the lakes to accept additional rainfall if the area is expecting the downpours that can come with a tropical storm or hurricane. This preventative move aims to prevent flooding of homes on the Chain and along the Peace River, if those forecasts verify and the area receives a lot of rain in a short time.
3. Plant some cool-season greens: Take advantage of the cooler weather and regular rain during an El Niño winter by planting some lettuce, kale, cool season veggies, or cool season cut flowers. Our horticulture team is ready to help you plan your spring garden, which you can plant now. Reach out to our Master Gardener Plant Clinic for garden planning advice at 863-519-1057 or via email at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu.
EL NIÑO AND CONSERVATION Rain is a good thing in Polk County, generally speaking. We are a rain-driven system, the top of the watershed. Every drop of water that falls in Polk County is trying to leave and for that reason, it’s good for residents to be tolerant of higher water when we are blessed enough to have it.
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FEBRUARY 2024 CHAIR YOGA EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY AT YOGA HAVEN Feb 1, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Practiced in a chair. Chair yoga poses and physical sequences focus on stretching, strength and flexibility. The movements help to release tension and stress leaving you feeling energized yet relaxed. Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com. CAMELLIA TOUR WITH PATRICK LYNCH Feb 1, 2024, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Join the Plant Records Curator Patrick Lynch for a walking tour of Bok Tower Gardens’ extensive camellia collection. boktowergardens.org ACCESS ART: SPECIAL NEEDS Feb 1, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland This program invites individuals with special needs and varying exceptionalities to meet and engage in viewing and discussing artwork that is exhibited. Following the tour, the group creates an art activity inspired by the visit in the Museum’s education classrooms. Registration preferred but not required. For registration or questions, please text Tinia Clark at 863-224-8557 or register online. polkmuseumofart.org AFTER HOURS AT THE MUSEUM Feb 1, 2024, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland During the evening, Dr. H. Alexander Rich, Executive Director and Chief Curator, will host a Curator Tour at 6 pm, providing in-depth arthistorical and curatorial insight into one of our current exhibitions. polkmuseumofart.org FROM SLAVERY TO COMMUNITY BUILDER: THE STORY OF LAWRENCE B. BROWN Feb 1, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland Brown was born into slavery, yet became a successful entrepreneur in Polk County. The LB Brown House Museum located in Bartow, stands as testament to what Brown accomplished. Clifton Lewis was instrumental in preserving this structure and originally brought this story to the public. Warren is an award-winning author who found the story of Lawrence Brown compelling and wanted to record the history of this man and his time. No registration required. lakelandpl. libcal.com
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BOOK CLUB GATHERING Feb 1, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Our first book is Light on Life by B.K.S. Iyengar. Mr. Iyengar was a worldwide renowned yoga Master who wrote this book in his later years to help guide all sincere yogis on their path. A book to treasure, indeed. Feel free to attend all of the gatherings or simply come when you can. We meet every Thursday for one hour. Free with a “love offering” donation for those inclined to give.
website: www.slwcog.com or call Sandra DeVane, show coordinator at 813-779-2174. ALL SHOOK UP Feb 1, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven Through Feb. 18. Inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley, It’s 1955, and into a square little town in a square little state rides a guitarplaying young man who changes everything and everyone he meets. theatrewinterhaven.com
TRIVIA THURSDAY Feb 1, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd St SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play. More info on FB @ TriviosityLive
BED, BREAKFAST AND BROADWAY Feb 2, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Lake Wales Little Theatre 411 North 3rd Street, Lake Wales Feb. 2, 3 & 4th. Marge Cunningham, the playwright of “You Only Die Twice,” runs the Enchanting Dreams Bed-and-Breakfast, which doubles as the community theatre. When she receives word that a top Broadway producer is coming to town to hopefully “discover” some fresh acting talent, she notifies the cast, and they go into high gear to perfect the show before opening night. Purchase tickets online. lwlt.org LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Feb 3, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org
FRIDAY MORNING BALANCE | MINI SOUND BATH SESSIONS (30MINS) Feb 2, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Ignite the Fire Inside Wellness Studio 140 SE Plaza Road, Winter Haven Friday Morning Balance: through March 30-Minute Sessions/$16 per Session. Check out the PACKAGES button for 2 or 4 session deals. Reserve your spot before arriving and embrace the harmony of “Friday Morning Balance.” centralfloridatix.com
PASSION & POETRY: CARMEN JONES Feb 1, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven Carmen Jones is a 1954 musical film directed by Otto Preminger and based on the 1943 Broadway musical of the same name by Oscar Hammerstein II. The film is a modern adaptation of Georges Bizet’s opera Carmen, set in a World War II-era black community. It stars Dorothy Dandridge in the title role, alongside Harry Belafonte, Pearl Bailey, and Diahann Carroll. Doors will open at 6 • Signature cocktails, wine, beer, craft soda, candy and freshly popped popcorn will be waiting. centralfloridatix.com
FIRST FRIDAY WINTER HAVEN Feb 2, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Downtown, Winter Haven First Friday is a monthly can’t-miss event in downtown Winter Haven for dinner, drinks, vibes and shopping!Guests can enjoy food and drink specials from downtown bars and restaurants, shop with downtown businesses who stay open late for the event, and catch live musicians and other entertainment at multiple venues. M ore info on FB & IG @whfirstfriday SMOKE OFF THE WATER Feb 2, 2024, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM 2400 Dundee Rd, Winter Haven Feb. 2 from 6 – 10pm and Feb. 3 from 10am – 6 pm. A food & music festival offering multiple smoky BBQ vendors, live music, and fun games and activities for the family. Tickets are $5 per person, children under 10 are free. Parking is $5. Proceeds benefit the animals cared for at the Humane Society of Polk County. humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org
GOD & COUNTRY Feb 1, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM South Lake Wales Church of God 210 Presidents Drive, Lake Wales Live Music. Jimmy Fortune, is an American country music singer from Nelson County, Virginia. Fortune sang tenor for The Statler Brothers for 21 years, and wrote the song “Elizabeth” for the group with several number-one songs that were recorded by the Statler Brothers. Order tickets at the church 41
RECONNECT TO YOURSELF WITH MORNING YIN & MINDFULNESS, EVERY SATURDAY Feb 3, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Reconnect with yourself through a relaxing class of yin yoga. Be guided through meditative postures and the breath. Soothe the mind while improving joint mobility and flexibility. This class is recommended for all levels. Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com. WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Feb 3, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM 250 Magnolia Ave, Winter Haven Shop local! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com THE WORLD OF VANILLA EXTRACT & HOW TO MAKE IT Feb 3, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Each participant will leave with their very own extract! Learn the process of creating your own high-quality vanilla extract. All equipment and ingredients are included in the cost of the class. Register in advance. boktowergardens.org
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FEBRUARY 2024 BRANDING BLUEPRINT INTENSIVE FOR REALTORS (MASTERCLASS KICKOFF) Feb 3, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM The Lodge 332 Avenue B SW, Winter Haven Join us for an exclusive, in-person kickoff of the Branding Blueprint Intensive for Realtors Masterclass! This session is the first step in a transformative journey for realtors committed to elevating their brand and achieving personal and professional growth in 2024. Registration & more info at centralfloridatix.com DOCENT-LED TOUR Feb 3, 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Free for everyone. Join us for a docent-led tour to get a fresh look into the Museum’s featured exhibition through an informative and engaging conversation with one of our passionate docents. polkmuseumofart.org SPRING FORWARD WITH AYURVEDA Feb 3, 2024, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Learn about the concepts of constitution and biorhythms as described in Ayurveda and the importance of periodic cleansing of body and mind to maintain health and enhance longevity. $20 Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com. “RAISING THE STAKES FOR A CAUSE” RCE’S THIRD ANNUAL GALA Feb 3, 2024, 5:00 PM - 10:30 PM Bonnet Springs Park 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland A fun night of casino play to raise fund for families in need. The Rossiter and Cummaro Enterprise Foundation (RCE) is a non-profit whose mission is to help families achieve optimal quality of life by addressing the needs of individuals with developmental delays as well as other health challenges and facilitating access to critical intervention services, tools, and training programs. To secure your spot contact information@rcefoundation.org. VISTEBALL Feb 3, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM 4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland VISTEBall is a unique, indoor, golf-themed event, benefiting VISTE clients and is fun for golfers and non-golfers alike! Funds raised through our signature fundraising event will benefit over 4,100 seniors annually. Along with all of the fun, there is a week-long online auction, all for a great cause! This event is recommended for ages 21+. viste.org
AN EVENING WITH ACOUSTIC EIDOLON Feb 3, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Live music. Joe and Hannah, aka Acoustic Eidolon. Hannah is a studio cellist, Joe is a doubleneck guitjo player in the world. Purchase tickets at boxtowergardens.org
MORE EVENTS ONLINE THE BLACK MARKET: A MELANIN CULTURAL FESTIVAL Feb 4, 2024, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Martin Luther King Jr Park 199 Lake Silver Drive, Winter Haven Join us in supporting and uplifting Black-owned businesses in our community. Explore a diverse range of products, from fashion and art to delicious treats. Let’s come together to honor the richness of Black history and entrepreneurship. RELAXING YOGA & SOUND BATH WITH CRYSTAL BOWLS Feb 4, 2024, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Be guided in gentle yoga then lay back and relax. Immerse yourself in a sound bath, a therapeutic practice where soothing sounds wash over you. $25 winterhavenyoga.com
AFTER SCHOOL ART Feb 5, 2024, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Doors open at 4:20 pm. Space is limited; be LES DUDEK sure to arrive early to secure your spot. After Feb 3, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM School Art is designed for the parent and child Historic Ritz Theatre to learn creative new skills together. Come join 263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven us for a new lesson each week using different The Historic Ritz Theatre is honored to welcome medium and learn about the elements of art. Les Dudek and band for a night of legendary Rock polkmuseumofart.org & Roll on February 3, 2024. One of Polk County’s own, you won’t want to miss this event! THE GENERATORS centralfloridatix.com Feb 5, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland This is an ad hoc discussion group that focuses on a specific topic of interest to genealogy and local history. The group dynamic gives newcomers a chance to ask questions to a diverse group of people that share this hobby. Register online. lakelandpl.libcal.com TRIVIA NIGHT Feb 5, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive PARADISE MARKET - SMALL BUSINESS SUNDAY Feb 4, 2024, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale This vibrant market features around 50 local small businesses who are sharing their unique creations. The market is indoor and on our covered porch. It is free to attend and open to the public. Breakfast & Lunch items are available for purchase. No ticket needed. centralfloridatix.com
TRIBUTE TUESDAY: JAMES TAYLOR Feb 6, 2024, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven Hear all of your favorite James Taylor songs. theatrewinterhaven.com BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE DESTRUCTION OF ROSEWOOD Feb 6, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven 43
Presentation by Dr. Vincent Adelumo, Senior Lecturer of African American Studies, University of Florida. During the first week of January in 1923, the city of Rosewood, an all-black town, burned to the ground in an act of domestic terrorism. This presentation analyzes Rosewood and other majority Black cities in Florida. Registration required. mywinterhaven.com/library DEEPEN YOUR SPIRITUALITY: SOULFUL ALIGNMENT YOGA, EVERY TUESDAY Feb 6, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven This is a 60 minute yoga session carefully crafted to sync with the wisdom of the Seven Spiritual Laws of Success (as inspired by the book The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra). Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com. TRIVIA TUESDAYS Feb 6, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm.Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive TEXAS HOLD’EM Feb 6, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday night. Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239 MARIETTA SIMPSON Feb 6, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Anne McGregor Jenkins Recital Hall 1100 Johnson Ave, Lakeland Marietta Simpson, one of the most sought-after mezzo-sopranos today, is Distinguished Professor of Music in Voice at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where she has served on faculty since August 2005. Known for her deeply expressive, richly beautiful voice, Simpson has sung with every major orchestra in the United States, under many of the world’s greatest conductors. For more information, call 863-680-4296. flsouthern.edu/ffa COMMUNITY CRAFTERS Feb 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven First Wednesday of the month. Bring your own craft project to work on and meet other crafters. mywinterhaven.com/library
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FEBRUARY 2024
TRIVIA THURSDAY Feb 8, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity. Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
CHAIR YOGA Feb 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Beginners welcome. The classes are designed to assist in quieting the mind, moving our bodies, breathing deeply and practicing mindfulness. You can use a provided chair or your own chair and wheelchairs are always welcome. Register at boktowergardens.org KNIT ONE, CROCHET TWO! Feb 7, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland Every Wednesday. Bring your current yarn project in and chat with other yarn fanatics. Some JEEP PRE-MARDI GRAS DECORATING knowledge of either knitting or crocheting is CONTEST recommended. lakelandpl.libcal.com Feb 8, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Lake Wales Pointe Downtown Lake Wales, Orange Ave. The ultimate pre-Mardi Gras event Jeep decorating contest with a chance to win prizes. Registration includes dinner and professional photos with your Jeep. Plus vendors, 50/50 raffle, and a scavenger hunt. centralfloridatix.com THE GALLERY CONCERT SERIES Feb 8, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Purchase tickets online. The Gallery Concert Series, is a special set of ensemble performances, live in the galleries and inspired by the current exhibition, Rockwell / Wyeth: Icons of Americana. polkmuseumofart.org TIKI BAR FUN AT CAMP MARGARITAVILLE Feb 7, 2024, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale A night of fun a the Tiki Bar! Happy Hour from 5 - 7 pm, live music by Andy Shreeve from 7 - 10pm. Wristbands required. Non resort guests must purchase tickets. centralfloridatix.com
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LAKELAND FOOD TRUCK RALLY Feb 8, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Munn Park 210 E Main Street, Lakeland Second Thursday of every month. Family-friendly food truck rally with music!
RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER: THE ROOTS OF BLACK MUSIC IN AMERICA A CONCERT EVENT FOR REFUGE ON THE RIDGE PART II FEAT. KARLUS TRAPP Feb 8, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Feb 7, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens Bartow Public Library 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales 2150 S Broadway Avenue, Bartow Concert event for Refuge on the Ridge. A musical performance by Karlus Trapp Fifteen-time GRAMMY® Award-winner chronicling black artists in American music. Ricky Skaggs’ career is easily among the most Karlus Trapp returns with his musical journey significant in recent country music history. If in time as he highlights the influences of artists Skaggs’ burgeoning trophy case full of awards including Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, The wasn’t already enough evidence of that fact, Drifters, Stevie Wonder, & Nat King Cole. 863consider that legendary guitarist Chet Atkins 594-0131 once credited Skaggs with “single-handedly saving country music.” Purchase tickets at boktowergardens.org
GALLERY PERSPECTIVES Feb 9, 2024, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Each month, the museum will invite special guests to discuss a current exhibition at the Museum, incorporating their own unique expertise and perspective. polkmuseumofart.org MUSICAL HAMMERS Feb 9, 2024, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Ave A NW, Winter Haven Musical Hammers’ free concerts are at the Winter Haven Public Library Multi-Purpose Room. The concerts are both educational and entertaining and open to the public. Musical Hammers is a Polk County Hammered Dulcimer Band formed in 2010 to provide hammered dulcimer enthusiasts an opportunity to play together. Their repertoire is ever-changing, including Appalachian fiddle tunes and reels, Old-time Waltzes, Hymns, Celtic jigs & hornpipes, Patriotic marches, and Holiday tunes.
PASSION & POETRY: LOVE JONES Feb 8, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven Love Jones is a 1997 romantic drama film written and directed by Theodore Witcher. Set in Chicago, the film follows the love story of Darius Lovehall, a poet, and Nina Mosley, a photographer. The film stars Larenz Tate as Darius and Nia Long as Nina. Signature cocktails, wine, beer, craft soda, candy and freshly popped popcorn for purchase. centralfloridatix.com
FLORIDA CARILLON FESTIVAL: ANNIE GAO Feb 9, 2024, 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales No registration required. Join us for a carillon performance by Annie Gao for the Florida Carillon Festival, celebrating Valentine’s Day. boktowergardens.org
AUTHOR TALK WITH TESSA BAILEY Feb 8, 2024, 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM A live, online Author Talk through the Library Speakers Consortium with New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey as she discusses the launch of her new super hot sports romance duology with a rom-com about a bad boy professional athlete who falls for his biggest fan in her new book Fangirl Down. To register for the live event visit: https://libraryc.org/ lakelandlibrary/38647 GARDEN MOSAIC WORKSHOP Feb 9, 2024, 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales The process is a leisurely activity with a beautiful finished product to place in your own space or give as a gift. This is a class for beginners that does not require any prior knowledge, and takes place in the Alexander Discovery Center. Ages 13 and above. Register at boktowergardens.org
RV UNPLUGGED WRAP PARTY Feb 9, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale Visit the host location & title sponsor of RV Unplugged Season 2 which will air on RVTV in May 2024. A limited number of guests will be able to join the celebration. Meet the cast & crew. centralfloridatix.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 -
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FEBRUARY 2024 LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Feb 10, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org
POLK TALES: STORYTELLING EVENT WINTER HAVEN Feb 9, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance presents POLK TALES: A Storytelling Festival. This performance is February 9 at 8pm in the Ghostlight Lounge at Theatre Winter Haven and features renowned storyteller, Paul Strickland. centralfloridatix.com
LATIN NIGHT WITH STELLA BEAT Feb 9, 2024, 8:30 PM - 11:59 PM Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City Nocke Latina con Top 40’S, Merengue, Salsa, Bachata y Rock! centralfloriatix.com
STORIES AND STONES HISTORIC CEMETERY TOUR OF TIGER FLOWERS CEMETERY Feb 10, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM Tiger Flowers Cemetery Lakeland Please join us for a walking tour of two of Lakeland’s Historic Black cemetery, Tiger Flowers. During this tour you will learn more about the history of Lakeland, as told through the stories of some of our past residents. We will be walking through paved and unpaved areas. Cemetery ground may be uneven. Please walk with caution and wear appropriate shoes. Register online. lakelandpl.libcal.com WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Feb 10, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM 250 Magnolia Ave, Winter Haven Shop local! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com LOVE FOR LEARNING: KIDS EXPO Feb 10, 2024, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM XP League Lakeland 3201 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Join Snapology, XP League, and Education Empowered Studio for a Free event Focused on Kids! Book Fair, Food Truck, ESPORTS, S.T.E.A.M Activities, Local Education Opportunities and local businesses. All to support and encourage kids to read, write, create and play!
UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA’S BRUNCH IN A BOX Feb 10, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 2306 Nevada Rd, Lakeland FLIPPING FOR CHARITIES Grab your valentine and drop by Women United’s Feb 10, 2024, 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM spring Brunch in a Box drive-through Valentine’s Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium Day and Super Bowl Weekend tailgate party, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland supporting United Way of Central Florida. All you can eat for charity! Join anytime between Support UWCF’s education programs and enjoy 7:30 am and 1:30 pm for delicious all-you-care-toWomen United’s Brunch in a Box while you root eat pancakes and sausage, served up by leaders for your favorite team or have a relaxing morning in our community, in support of our community. with your significant other. Visit uwcf.org/ Purchase tickets in advance. citruscenterkiwanis.org brunchinabox to order a box.
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ARTLAB Feb 10, 2024, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Registration open 2 weeks before. Participants will be introduced to one of the Museum’s exhibitions in a fun and interactive way. ArtLabs are led by professional artists and art educators who will engage participants of all ages and skills in their own unique experience relating to an exhibition on display in the Museum. Learn more at polkmuseumofart.org. VALENTINES CHARCUTERIE WORKSHOP Feb 10, 2024, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Learn about pairing different flavors, textures, and colors to create an unforgettable culinary masterpiece. Your ticket includes all materials and food to build your charcuterie board and 2 different cheese tastings. Register online. boktowergardens.org VALENTINE TUSSIE MUSSIE WORKSHOP Feb 10, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland Popularized during the Victorian era, the tussie mussie, or small flower bouquet, became a popular fashion accessory amongst the upper class and was used to communicate messages between potential suitors. Make our own tussie mussie to give to someone special, or keep as a treat for yourself. While supplies last. No registration required. This event is for ages 18+. lakelandpl.libcal.com FREE CHINESE NEW YEAR YOGA AND POTLUCK PARTY Feb 10, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Celebrate the Chinese New Year as we bring in the year of the wooden dragon! Enjoy a free yoga class followed by a potluck where everyone brings a dish to share. Celebrate with community for free! Register at www.winterhavenyoga.com so we know you’re coming!
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POLK TALES: STORYTELLING EVENT LAKELAND Feb 10, 2024, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance presents POLK TALES: A Storytelling Festival. This performance is February 10 at 5:00pm at the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland features renowned storyteller, Paul Strickland. Special performances also by Orlando Story Club and Sharktooth Sam! centralfloridatix.com
ULTIMATE RUSH TRIBUTE Feb 10, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City Experience the ultimate Rush tribute concert, where the spirit of legendary hits like “Tom Sawyer,” “Spirit of Radio,” and “Limelight” will come alive! Doors swing open at 6 PM, offering you the chance to secure the prime spots and indulge in delightful drinks and delectable bites before the show begins. Limited tickets available! centralfloridatix.com
MORE EVENTS ONLINE JAY FARRAR WITH GARY HUNT & COLONEL FORD Feb 10, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th Street NW, Winter Haven Doors 6 PM, Jay Farrar 7 PM and, Col. Ford 8:30 PM. After spearheading the alt-country movement with Uncle Tupelo, Jay Farrar pursued his vision with Son Volt, who recorded three landmark albums in the ’90s before the groundbreaking artist put the band on extended hiatus and cut three solo LPs. Colonel Ford is a St. Louis, honky tonk band that features Jay & Dade Farrar, Gary Hunt and John Horton. Purchase tickets online. gpderrydown.com
TRIVIA NIGHT Feb 12, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive BOOKS SANDWICHED IN Feb 13, 2024, 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland In February, we will discuss “The Book of Lost Friends” by Lisa Wingate. Registration is required. lakelandpl.libcal.com MONTHLY SACRED STILLNESS: MEDITATION + PRAYER Feb 11, 2024, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Ignite the Fire Inside Wellness Studio 140 SE Plaza Road, Winter Haven This monthly Sacred Stillness experience is held the 2nd Sunday of each month to provide a safe space to reflect, meditate, pray + encourage one another. centralfloridatix.com
POLK TALES: STORYTELLING EVENT CHILDREN’S CONCERT Feb 11, 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Florida Children’s Museum at Bonnet Springs Park, 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance presents POLK TALES: A Storytelling Festival. This children’s concert features renowned storyteller, Paul Strickland, with a special guest appearance by Sharktooth Sam! NOTE: The concert tickets are $5 and ONLY include admission to the concert. Admission to the Florida Children’s Museum requires an additional fee. Admission to the concert is free with paid admission to the museum and/or for museum members. centralfloridatix.com
LECTURE SERIES: GOOD DAY SUNSHINE STATE: THE BEATLES IN 1964 FLORIDA Feb 13, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Presented by Bob Kealing, Author “Good Day Sunshine State: The Beatles in 1964 Florida.” Through dozens of primary interviews, letters, photographs, and court transcripts, Kealing chronicles the Beatles’ travels through the potboiler that was 1964 Florida. Based on his book, this presentation explores the band’s seismic influence on the people and culture of the state. Registration at mywinterhaven.com/library TRIVIA TUESDAYS Feb 13, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
CAMP MARGARITAVILLE’S SUPER BOWL PARTY Feb 11, 2024, 5:30 PM - 10:30 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale Sit back and enjoy the game on the big screen inside the Paradise Pavillion. Play yard games and snack on your favorite finger foods. Drinks availble for purchase. centralfloridatix.com
GALENTINE’S PARTY: HEARTS & SKULLS Feb 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Obscure Wine Company 276 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven Galentine’s Day fun! It’s all about good vibes, fierce friendship, and sipping on cool drinks! Rally the crew and let’s celebrate together! More info on FB @obscurewine
MORE EVENTS ONLINE
AFTER SCHOOL ART Feb 12, 2024, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Doors open at 4:20 pm. Space is limited; be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. After School Art is designed for the parent and child to learn creative new skills together. Come join us for a new lesson each week using different medium and learn about the elements of art. polkmuseumofart.org
BARBIE: GAL-ENTINE’S DAY PARTY! Feb 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Gem Theater 110 NW 1st Ave, Mulberry Grab your best pal and join us for a Barbie approved Gal-entine’s Day Party! Come decked out in your Barbie best for a chance to win a raffle prize basket. Complimentary snacks will be available along with a Barbie photo op. Watch Barbie at 7 pm. Admission is $5. centralfloridatix.com AN EVENING WITH MURIEL ANDERSON Feb 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Live music! Muriel Anderson is one of America’s premier acoustic guitarists / harp-guitarists, and is the first woman to win the National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship. Her gentle sense of humor and her facility across multiple genres including fingerstyle, bluegrass, classical, and international music is revered by guitarists worldwide. boktowergardens.org CELEBRATION OF BLACK JAZZ COMPOSERS CONCERT Feb 13, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Branscomb Memorial Auditorium 1100 Johnson Ave, Lakeland Free admission, no ticket required. In honor of Black History month, The Florida Southern College Jazz Program will feature classic compositions by the greatest Black Jazz composers. The concert will highlight all of FSC’s Jazz ensembles. For more information, call 863680-4296. flsouthern.edu/ffa VALENTINE’S DAY Feb 14, 2024 MORNING BOOK CLUB Feb 14, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Meets on the second Wednesday of the month. February book: “The Art Thief” by Michael Finkel. mywinterhaven.com/library - CONTINUED ON PAGE 48 -
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FEBRUARY 2024 CHESS MEET-UP Feb 14, 2024, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays. All abilities and ages welcome. mywinterhaven. com/library JAZZ ON THE TERRACE: VALENTINE’S DAY WITH JAZZFIRE! Feb 14, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Live music! Spend Valentine’s Day under the stars with JAZZFIRE! live on The Terrace. The Blue Palmetto Cafe will be open with dining specials and full menu. boktowergardens.org
VALENTINES DINNER & DANCING Feb 14, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City Join us for an enchanting evening filled with delectable dining and captivating dance beats provided by the incredible Secret Soul Duo. Music by Secret Soul: From soulful Latin melodies to the latest chart-topping hits, let Secret Soul serenade you and your beloved with their mesmerizing tunes throughout the night. Your ticket includes a sumptuous and specially crafted romantic dinner that promises to tantalize your taste buds and set the perfect mood for this lovely occasion. centralfloridatix.com CAMELLIA TOUR WITH PATRICK LYNCH Feb 15, 2024, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales Join the Plant Records Curator Patrick Lynch for a walking tour of Bok Tower Gardens’ extensive camellia collection. boktowergardens.org
havenmagazines.com
POST VALENTINE’S DAY ROMANCE AT THE RITZ: THE SHAPE OF WATER Feb 15, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven An after Valentine’s Day romance for those who know that love can be found where & when one leasts expects it. A visually stunning and emotionally captivating film directed by Guillermo del Toro. Set in the 1960s, the story follows Elisa, a mute janitor working in a highsecurity government laboratory. Elisa’s life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers a mysterious amphibious creature being held captive in the MADE @ THE LIBRARY lab. Signature cocktails, wine, beer, craft soda, Feb 15, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM candy and freshly popped popcorn available. Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, centralfloridatix.com 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland POLK @ NITE - ROCKWELL / WYETH: ICONS OF AMERICANA Feb 15, 2024, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Celebrate a belated Valentine’s Day with your partner, galentine, BFF or anyone else you want to impress at Polk at Nite! Polk at Nite is a cocktail party mixed with fine art, live music and culture at the Polk Museum of Art. Complimentary small bites and craft cocktail. Cash bar available after free drink redemption. Masterminded by LKLD Magazine & Destroyer Events. centralfloridatix.com
Join us for a fun, in-person, adult craft program. All supplies will be provided, all you need to do is register. This program is free for adults 18 and over. Register in advance. lakelandpl.libcal.com
DISNEY’S DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL Feb 15, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven Feb. 15 - 25, days & times vary. Disney’s Descendants: The Musical is a brand-new musical jam-packed with comedy, adventure, Disney characters, and hit songs from the films! theatrewinterhaven.com TRIVIA THURSDAY Feb 15, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity. Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
FRIDAY MORNING BALANCE | MINI SOUND BATH SESSIONS Feb 16, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM TASTE OF WINTER HAVEN 2024 Ignite the Fire Inside Wellness Studio Feb 15, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM 140 SE Plaza Road, Winter Haven Venue 650 Join us every Friday for a 30-minute mini-sound 650 6th St SW, Winter Haven Taste of Winter Haven is an evening event focused bath session designed to set a peaceful tone for your day. Immerse yourself in the soothing on giving the community an opportunity to vibrations of our sound bath, a perfect blend of taste local cuisine, beer, and wine while enjoying tranquility and rejuvenation. centralfloridatix.com live music. You must be 21 or older to attend. centralfloridatix.com 48
UAW MID FLORIDA RETIREE COUNCIL Feb 16, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Knights of Columbus 1500/4726, 3308 Avenue West Northwest, Winter Haven Monthly meetings are held on the third Friday of every month. We encourage members to come early for some coffee and donuts and to socialize with fellow members. Also in attendance there will be vendors from Blue Cross and United Healthcare, Delta Dental and Optum Rx. If you have any problems with some claims, you can bring the paperwork to the meeting and speak with the healthcare representatives. The UAW Mid Florida Retiree Council’s drop in center in Winter Haven is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The office is located in the Hope Plaza strip mall (off Hwy 17 by the WAWA and across the street from Big Lots). Please contact us at (863) 293-5556 or drop by with any problems you have with your benefits. Please pass this info along to any UAW retired members you know who may not get this publication. JUICING FOR YOUR HEALTH Feb 16, 2024, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Learn the health benefits of juicing. Brittney Kieffer will go over the basics of juicing and how a plantbased diet completely changed her health. Brittney will demonstrate how to juice and share some of her favorite recipes with everyone. There will be samples for every one of the delicious juicing recipes. Register online. boktowergardens.org TEACHER’S EARLY RELEASE DAYS SOUND BATH Feb 16, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Ignite the Fire Inside Wellness Studio 140 SE Plaza Road, Winter Haven Recharge now that the school year has begun and carry that tranquility into your classroom. Self-care. Immerse yourself in soothing sounds and emerge refreshed, ready to inspire. centralfloridatix.com CRAFTERNOON Feb 16, 2024, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland Crafternoon is a monthly, drop-in craft program for kids on Polk County Public Schools’ Early Dismissal Days. Recommended for children ages 5+ and their grown-ups, no registration required. Things could get messy, so please wear appropriate clothing! Questions? Contact Cassie Walters-Shantal (863) 834-4294 or email cassandra.walters-shantal@lakelandgov.net. lakelandpl.libcal.com
ADD YOUR EVENT SPRING GOURD BIRDHOUSE WORKSHOP Feb 17, 2024, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Participants will use a decoupage method to decorate a birdhouse gourd. While drying, a break will be provided during which you can enjoy lunch at the Café as well as a stroll through The Gardens. After drying, a sealer will be applied to complete your creation. Register online. boktowergardens.org
SHAFT (1972) Feb 16, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven “Shaft,” released in 1971, holds immense importance in the history of cinema. Directed by Gordon Parks, the film introduced audiences to the character of John Shaft; a private detective, played by Richard Roundtree. This screening serves as a celebration of the contributions to cinema by actor Richard Roundtree. His legacy will endure as will the timeless cool that is Shaft. centralfloridatix.com
GONE COUNTRY FOR KIDSPACK Feb 17, 2024, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM White Horse Venue 5718 Yates Road, Lakeland A night of fun to help wipe out childhood hunger. Annual Fundraiser for kidsPACK to help our homeless and/or insecure food students throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties, Florida. Purchase tickets at kidspack.org/gonecountry.
3V3 U9-ADULT COED SOCCER TOURNAMENTS Feb 18, 2024, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Polk State College 999 Avenue H NE Winter Haven Coed 3v3 soccer tournaments. Seamlessly divided into divisions encompassing ages ranging from U9 to adult, this exhilarating tournament serves as a hub of spirited camaraderie, competitive intensity, and wholesome soccer engagement. Register online. whunitedacademy.com
70S&80S DIVA DANCE PARTY DINNER SHOW Feb 17, 2024, 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City The DIVAs of the 70s & 80s is the definitive DIVAS Tribute Show, celebrating the many female artists and their great songs from the classic years of the 70s & 80s. Arrive early to savor a delectable dinner before hitting the dance floor. Secure your spot early to snag the best seats for a great view of the nostalgia-filled extravaganza. centralfloridatix.com
TROPICAL SUNDAY & CAR MEET | LA LLAMA DEL SWING LIVE Feb 18, 2024, 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City Trae to carro y toda tu energía para bailar y gozar en nuestro Primer Domingo Tropical en Haines City. centralfloridatix.com
WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Feb 17, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM 250 Magnolia Avenue, Winter Haven Shop local! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com
YOUTH SEWING SATURDAY Feb 17, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland February’s Project: Fabric Heart Garland. Sewing Saturday is limited to ten (10) participants. URINETOWN THE MUSICAL BY GREG KOTIS Registration is required and will open one week Feb 16, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM before the class begins. Loca Lee Buckner Theatre Older kids and teens ages 9-17 are invited to join 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland us for a free 90-minute class for students with Feb. 16 - 18. Inspired by the works of Bertolt Brecht some sewing machine experience. Please note, and Kurt Weill, Urinetown is an irreverently students should have some basic experience humorous satire in which no one is safe from with sewing machines to participate. Register at scrutiny. Praised for reinvigorating the very notion lakelandpl.libcal.com. of what a musical could be, Urinetown catapults the “comedic romp” into the new millennium with DOCENT-LED TOUR its outrageous perspective, wickedly modern wit Feb 17, 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM and sustained ability to produce gales of unbridled Polk Museum Of Art laughter. For more information, call 863-680800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland 3089. flsouthern.edu/ffa Free for everyone. Join us for a docent-led tour to get a fresh look into the Museum’s featured BIG: THE MUSICAL exhibition through an informative and engaging Feb 16, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM conversation with one of our passionate docents. Lakeland Community Theatre polkmuseumofart.org 121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland Feb. 16 - 25, March 1 - 3. The classic 1987 motion SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW picture fantasy bursts onto the stage in the Feb 17, 2024, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM unforgettable theatrical experience, Big The Musical. Josh Baskin is sick of being an awkward Bike Shop Of Winter Haven kid. At a carnival, he makes a wish to the Zoltar 249 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven machine to become “big.” Rated PG13. Purchase Free to ride! Slow Roll is a free family-friendly tickets online. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com event. Bring your bikes and join us as we leisurely roll through downtown Winter Haven down to LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB Lake Silver to watch the Cypress Gardens Ski MARKET Team show. Then, we roll back through town to Feb 17, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Grove Roots for much needed libations and food N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland truck nourishment. Bike rentals are available Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop from the Bike Shop of Winter Haven. Call them in local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan advance to reserve yours- (863) 299-9907. Sign gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and up on Facebook @slowrollskishow more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays.
DONAVON FRANKENREITER FEATURING GOODNIGHT, TEXAS Feb 17, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Live music. Frankenreiter entertains audiences with his unique blend of laid-back grooves, philosophical lyrics and soulful delivery. Purchase tickets online. boktowergardens.org PARADISE MARKET - SMALL BUSINESS SUNDAY Feb 18, 2024, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale This vibrant market features around 50 local small businesses who are sharing their unique creations. The market is indoor and on our covered porch. It is free to attend and open to the public. No ticket required. centralfloridatix.com
downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org
RV CREATING YET - CREATOR CONFERENCE Feb 18 - 21, 2024 Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale At this conference, you’ll learn how to monetize your social media content and create freedom as you travel or live your life. Space is Limited. Call to Book your RV Site: 863-455-7335. Register for the conference at centralfloridatix.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 50 -
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FEBRUARY 2024 TAKE & MAKE: ADULT CRAFT KITS TO GO Feb 19, 2024, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland The Lakeland Libraries are offering take and make craft kits for adults at all of our branch locations. Take-home kits are for ages 18 and up. Registration is required and will open on Monday, February 12 at 9 am. Select your library when you register and pick up your kit on Monday, February 19. lakelandpl.libcal.com AFTER SCHOOL ART Feb 19, 2024, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Doors open at 4:20 pm. Space is limited; be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. After School Art is designed for the parent and child to learn creative new skills together. Come join us for a new lesson each week using different medium and learn about the elements of art. polkmuseumofart.org TRIVIA TUESDAYS Feb 20, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
speaker Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, catered lunch from Carrabba’s, fashions from Babe’s, and local vendors at the lobby expo. There are basket raffles, door prizes, silent auction, and a Mardi Gras photo op area in the ballroom. gfwcfourcorners.org
more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! Purchase tickets online. theatrewinterhaven.com CHAIR YOGA Feb 21, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales Beginners welcome. The classes are designed to assist in quieting the mind, moving our bodies, breathing deeply and practicing mindfulness. You can use a provided chair or your own chair and wheelchairs are always welcome. Register at boktowergardens.org
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE: VINTAGE VI Feb 23, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Munn Park 210 East Main Street, Lakeland Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and grab a to go dinner and adult beverage from a Downtown Business! This event has a state liquor license, so you can leave a bar or restaurant with a to go drink to enjoy in Munn Park while you listen to the band.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: LINCOLN ON SLAVERY, EMANCIPATION, AND EQUALITY Feb 22, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Abraham Lincoln portrayed by Kevin J. Wood. Mr. Lincoln shares his ever-evolving perspectives on the subjects of slavery, emancipation, and equality, including the relationship between the races during his times. Registration required. mywinterhaven.com/library
TRIVIA THURSDAY Feb 22, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 TEXAS HOLD’EM 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Feb 20, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity. Barrel 239 Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play. 239 3rd Street Southwest, Winter Haven Every Tuesday night. Players receive 10% off drinks More info on FB @TriviosityLive while at the table. Gift card prizes are awarded to CASABLANCA AT THE HISTORIC RITZ 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This THEATRE event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239 Feb 22, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Ritz Theatre FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE STUDIO 263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven ORCHESTRA, ENCORE Casablanca serves as a powerful reminder of the Feb 20, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM impact of World War II and the struggles faced Branscomb Memorial Auditorium by individuals caught in the midst of the conflict. 1100 Johnson Avenue, Lakeland Free for FSC Faculty, Staff and Students. General The film captures the uncertainty, fear, and moral dilemmas faced by its characters, reflecting the Admission tickets $5 child/$10 adult. broader experiences of people during that time. It The FSC Studio Orchestra highlights the talents of the FSC Orchestra and the FSC Jazz Ensemble. portrays the complexities of war and the difficult choices individuals had to make, highlighting Selections will combine the worlds of Jazz and the themes of sacrifice and patriotism. Signature Classical Music and will feature world premiere arrangements or compositions specifically created cocktails, wine, beer, craft soda, candy and freshly popped popcorn will be available for purchase. for this large ensemble. flsouthern.edu/ffa centralfloridatix.com MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL GFWC FOUR CORNERS JUNIOR WOMAN’S Feb 20, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM CLUB FASHION SHOW, LUNCHEON, AND Theatre Winter Haven EXPO 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven Feb 23, 2024, 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM Join the sisterhood Feb. 20 - 25! Four women at Lake Eva Event Center a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, Chief fundraiser with a Mardi Gras theme features night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and havenmagazines.com
MICHAEL JACKSON THE KING OF POP TRIBUTE Feb 23, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the King of Pop’s iconic hits and legendary dance moves. Arrive ahead of time to secure the best spot in the house to “Rock With You” all night long. And while you’re here, indulge in the delicious offerings from our concessions! centralfloridatix.com
rock, and richly delivered storytelling. He’s been a torchbearer of that sound for more than four decades since, navigating the twists and turns of an acclaimed career that’s taken him from gold records to Grammy nominations, from New York City’s CBGB to Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe, from his 1978 debut album to 2022’s vital and versatile Moving Through America. Purchase tickets online. gpderrydown.com LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Feb 24, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Feb 24, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM 250 Magnolia Avenue, Winter Haven Shop local! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com LAKE WALES ARTS FESTIVAL Feb 24, 2024, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Lake Wailes Park 33 N Lake Shore Blvd, Lake Wales Feb. 24 and Feb. 25 from noon – 4 pm. Presented by the Lake Wales Arts Council with up to 100 fine artists and artisans showcasing their work. Familyfriendly. Take part in the Arts Festival Beverage Crawl for a small fee. lakewalesartscouncil.org SPRING TRAINING DETROIT TIGERS VS NEW YORK YANKEES Feb 24, 2024, 1:05 PM - 3:00 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland Preseason baseball. First Spring Training game of the season! mlb.com/tigers
OUT OF THE BOX IMPROV Feb 23, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Ritz Theatre 263 West Central Avenue, Winter Haven A cast of talented young actors create ‘slice of life’ theatre based on the audience’s script scenarios. centralfloridatix.com
LAKELAND RECORD FAIR, VOLUME III Feb 25, 2024, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Rec Room 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland Come shop with lots of vendors selling new and used LPs, CDs, cassette tapes, memorabilia and more! PLUS a local DJ and food vendors! More info on FB @JesseCarlVinyl
STEVE FORBERT: MOVING THROUGH AMERICA Feb 23, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th Street NW, Winter Haven Years before Americana music earned its own category at the Grammy Awards, Steve Forbert helped pioneer the genre’s mix of folk, roots-
SPRING TRAINING: TIGERS VS ASTROS Feb 26, 2024, 1:05 PM - 3:00 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland Spring Training. Watch the Tigers take on the Astros. mlb.com/tigers
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MORE EVENTS ONLINE AFTER SCHOOL ART Feb 26, 2024, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Polk Museum Of Art 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Doors open at 4:20 pm. Space is limited; be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. After School Art is designed for the parent and child to learn creative new skills together. polkmuseumofart.org TRIVIA NIGHT Feb 26, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive SPRING TRAINING: TIGERS VS BLUE JAYS Feb 27, 2024, 1:05 PM - 3:00 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Boulevard, Lakeland Preseason baseball. mlb.com/tigers
TEXAS HOLD’EM Feb 27, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday night. Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239
Hear the music of Carole King performed by Katie Pinder Brown. Purchase tickets online. theatrewinterhaven.com TRIVIA TUESDAYS Feb 27, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
PIPA AND PIANO: EASTERN MUSIC, WESTERN MUSIC, AND EVERYTHING INBETWEEN Feb 27, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Anne McGregor Jenkins Recital Hall 1100 Johnson Avenue, Lakeland Free admission, no ticket required. Enjoy an evening with Fen-Fang Chen as she performs, on the pipa and on the piano, both solo and collaborative selections of traditional Chinese music, Western Classical music, and everything in between. This lecture recital will lead you to experience various works from diverse genres. flsouthern.edu/ffa
RODNEY CROWELL: THE CHICAGO SESSIONS TOUR Feb 27, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th Street NW, Winter Haven Rodney Crowell is the songwriter’s songwriter and an icon among giants. Native Texan, Crowell is a multi-Grammy Award-winning troubadour with fifteen number one hits. He has also penned beloved songs for artists as diverse as Bob Seger, Etta James, the Grateful Dead, John Denver, Jimmy Buffett and countless others. Purchase tickets online. gpderrydown.com
TRIBUTE TUESDAY: CAROLE KING Feb 27, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
LEAP INTO THE GARDENS FEATURING THE BYRNE BROS. Feb 29, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens
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1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales Leap Day Fun! Bring your chairs and blankets at this concert will be hosted on the Oval Lawn. The Byrne Brothers, hailing from Donegal, Ireland, are a multi-award winning family band and Irish dancers. Purchase tickets at boktowergardens.org TRIVIA THURSDAY Feb 29, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity. Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive A MUSICAL FEAST: CHAMBER SINGERS CHOIR CONCERT Feb 29, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Branscomb Memorial Auditorium 1100 Johnson Avenue, Lakeland Free for FSC Faculty, Staff and Students. General Admission tickets $5 child/$10 adult. Join the Florida Southern College Chamber Singers as we toast the joys of life and comfort one another through challenging times, gathering together for our Musical Feast. flsouthern.edu/ffa
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1172 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD..................... DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2023........ $333,700
BARTOW
1095 SAND TORCH CIR............................... DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023....... $335,000 1169 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD.................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023........$335,900
1820 THOMPSON PRESERVE BLVD.................. BARTOW....... 12/20/2023.........$116,000
1993 NOBLE DR........................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023........$336,700
1836 THOMPSON PRESERVE BLVD.................. BARTOW....... 12/20/2023.........$116,000
2230 SUNSET WAY..................................... DAVENPORT....... 12/20/2023........ $337,600
2620 OAK DR.................................................... BARTOW....... 12/20/2023........$150,000
1333 CASCADE DR...................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023....... $344,600
870 N ORANGE BLOSSOM CIR......................... BARTOW......... 12/6/2023....... $244,000
2439 MATTERHORN TRL............................ DAVENPORT......... 12/6/2023....... $345,500
1920 GRIFFINS GREEN BLVD............................. BARTOW........ 12/21/2023....... $289,800
1168 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD.................... DAVENPORT....... 12/20/2023........ $347,700
3412 LOUNGING WREN LN............................... BARTOW......... 12/4/2023.......$308,000
1528 EUCALYPTUS WAY............................. DAVENPORT........12/22/2023........$347,800
1620 TAYLOR LANDING DR.............................. BARTOW........ 12/21/2023....... $320,000
1165 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD.................... DAVENPORT........ 12/27/2023.........$351,700
3226 SWAN SONG CT....................................... BARTOW..........12/7/2023........$373,000
1181 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD..................... DAVENPORT....... 12/28/2023.........$351,700
845 SUSAN PL.................................................. BARTOW......... 12/8/2023....... $385,000
1340 MOUNTAIN FLOWER LN.................... DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023....... $354,600
3395 LOUNGING WREN LN.............................. BARTOW....... 12/20/2023....... $386,500
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820 BRIARGROVE AVE............................... DAVENPORT........12/22/2023....... $355,000 235 HAMPTON LOOP................................. DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023........$723,800 2203 SUNSET WAY..................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/5/2023........ $357,200 252 HAMPTON LOOP................................. DAVENPORT........12/19/2023....... $760,000 409 NOBLE AVE.......................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/6/2023....... $359,000 45610 US HIGHWAY 27............................... DAVENPORT....... 12/20/2023.....$1,050,000 2823 STUNNING AVE.................................. DAVENPORT........12/22/2023....... $360,000 45590 US HIGHWAY 27.............................. DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023..... $1,950,000 1066 BERRY LN........................................... DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023....... $360,000 1909 CHICKASAW BLVD............................. DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023....... $360,500
HAINES CITY
305 LOCKBREEZE DR................................. DAVENPORT......... 12/5/2023....... $365,000 1215 TANK TRL............................................ HAINES CITY........12/19/2023..........$62,300 1372 SUGARWOOD ST................................ DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $365,000 1582 FINNIGAN CIR..................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2023..........$62,300 2752 GENTLE RAIN DR................................ DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023....... $369,000 5116 HELM ST.............................................. HAINES CITY......... 12/5/2023..........$65,700 1814 DELIGHTFUL DR................................. DAVENPORT........12/19/2023....... $369,800 2123 30TH ST.............................................. HAINES CITY........ 12/21/2023........$130,000 341 ROSSO DR............................................ DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023........$375,000 311 TOWNBRIDGE DR.................................. HAINES CITY....... 12/20/2023........ $135,000 2505 TULIP DR............................................ DAVENPORT........ 12/27/2023........$375,000 87 STRAPHMORE DR.................................. HAINES CITY........ 12/21/2023....... $230,000 1985 VICTORIA ST...................................... DAVENPORT....... 12/20/2023........$376,900 5019 STARBOARD ST.................................. HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023....... $266,000 421 NOBLE AVE........................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $379,000 5804 BALLAST ST....................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/6/2023........$282,500 2001 VICTORIA ST...................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/27/2023....... $380,600 5985 CATAMARAN AVE.............................. HAINES CITY........ 12/21/2023........$292,900 2751 GENTLE RAIN DR................................ DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023....... $386,000 5604 MADDIE DR....................................... HAINES CITY....... 12/26/2023........$296,200
2560 TULIP DR........................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/27/2023....... $386,000 4719 BERNARD BLVD.................................. HAINES CITY....... 12/26/2023........ $297,300 1606 FINNIGAN CIR.................................... HAINES CITY....... 12/26/2023....... $302,000 1193 CASCADES AVE................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $389,000 1522 FINNIGAN CIR..................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023....... $304,500 2759 GENTLE RAIN DR............................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023....... $389,500 1427 PLANK PL............................................ HAINES CITY........12/19/2023.......$306,000 1192 PAPAYA CIR.......................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $390,000 144 SANDERLING DR.................................. HAINES CITY......... 12/6/2023........$307,000 2556 TULIP DR............................................ DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2023....... $393,000 5464 MADDIE DR....................................... HAINES CITY........12/19/2023.......$308,000 1346 HOLODAK DR..................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/5/2023........$393,500 5031 STARBOARD ST.................................. HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2023........ $309,100 623 DARING DR.......................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/27/2023....... $394,600 5354 MADDIE DR........................................ HAINES CITY........12/22/2023........$310,800 219 EAGLEVIEW LOOP................................ DAVENPORT....... 12/26/2023........$397,000 2654 TRINIDAD RD..................................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2023........$318,000 105 EAGLEVIEW LOOP................................ DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023........ $397,500 5456 MADDIE DR....................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023......... $321,100 223 EAGLEVIEW LOOP............................... DAVENPORT......... 12/5/2023....... $399,000 6115 HAMMOCK ISLAND WAY.................... HAINES CITY........12/19/2023........ $321,600 2804 BIG SUR RD....................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023.......$405,000 2390 WHITE CEDAR WAY........................... HAINES CITY....... 12/20/2023........$325,000 1376 HOLODAK DR..................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $406,500 2629 TRINIDAD RD..................................... HAINES CITY........12/19/2023....... $326,000 2812 BIG SUR RD......................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023....... $407,000 5358 MADDIE DR........................................ HAINES CITY........12/19/2023.........$332,100 2135 DESERT ROSE DR................................ DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023........$410,000 5944 CATAMARAN AVE.............................. HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023....... $333,800 1412 SUGARWOOD ST................................ DAVENPORT..........12/7/2023.........$411,000 2613 TRINIDAD RD...................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023........$335,500 1197 CASCADE DR....................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023........$414,000 6119 HAMMOCK ISLAND WAY.................... HAINES CITY........ 12/27/2023........ $335,700 960 PARADISE DR...................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $434,500 5475 MADDIE DR........................................ HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023.......$344,000 2517 TULIP DR............................................. DAVENPORT....... 12/26/2023.......$438,000 4936 MAINSAIL ST..................................... HAINES CITY........12/22/2023........$347,000 1663 DELIGHTFUL DR................................. DAVENPORT........12/22/2023....... $443,200 3910 WHITNEY WAY................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2023........$347,000 676 DARING DR.......................................... DAVENPORT....... 12/26/2023.......$450,000 784 RICHMOND ESTATE AVE..................... HAINES CITY......... 12/6/2023........ $347,200 708 DARING DR.......................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/27/2023....... $455,600 1221 PARNELL ST......................................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2023....... $358,000 2118 CHARMING AVE.................................. DAVENPORT........12/22/2023........$459,700 5484 MADDIE DR....................................... HAINES CITY........ 12/21/2023....... $359,400 3524 CORTLAND DR.................................. DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $465,000 4827 RIGGING ST....................................... HAINES CITY........12/19/2023....... $360,300 1678 DELIGHTFUL DR................................. DAVENPORT........12/22/2023........$467,900 5476 MADDIE DR........................................ HAINES CITY........12/22/2023........ $361,200
630 TUPELO CIR......................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023........$510,000 5957 CATAMARAN AVE.............................. HAINES CITY........12/22/2023........ $366,100 162 CORDOVA AVE..................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/6/2023........$523,000 5492 MADDIE DR........................................ HAINES CITY........12/19/2023....... $368,200 253 SOLANA CIR......................................... DAVENPORT........12/22/2023........$525,000 3815 WHITNEY WAY................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/6/2023....... $370,000 124 YELLOW SNAPDRAGON DR................. DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023....... $535,000 2641 TRINIDAD RD..................................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2023........$372,000 4122 LANA AVE........................................... DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2023........$538,200 2661 TRINIDAD RD...................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2023.......$380,000 5504 SOLTERRA CIR................................... DAVENPORT........ 12/21/2023....... $570,000 320 GLADESDALE ST.................................. HAINES CITY........ 12/21/2023........$397,000 45730 US HIGHWAY 27 HWY...................... DAVENPORT........12/19/2023....... $650,000 870 SAND SEA PL....................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2023........ $397,500 8036 OAK SHADOW CT............................. DAVENPORT........12/22/2023....... $675,000 355 BRIARBROOK LN................................. HAINES CITY........ 12/21/2023.......$450,000 216 YELLOW SNAPDRAGON DR................. DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2023....... $695,000 55
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56
LAKE WALES
1923 PAWNEE TRL.......................................... LAKELAND........ 12/21/2023....... $475,000
301 HARPER ESTATES CIR........................... LAKE WALES........ 12/21/2023......... $58,500 339 HARPER ESTATES CIR.......................... LAKE WALES........12/22/2023......... $58,500 305 HARPER ESTATES CIR.......................... LAKE WALES..........12/7/2023......... $58,500 335 DOMARIS AVE...................................... LAKE WALES......... 12/5/2023........$145,000 276 SUMMIT AVE........................................ LAKE WALES........12/19/2023........$154,000 101 EDGEWOOD BLVD................................ LAKE WALES......... 12/8/2023........$180,000 490 4TH ST................................................. LAKE WALES......... 12/5/2023........ $193,000 2552 SCENIC HWY...................................... LAKE WALES......... 12/8/2023....... $278,000 8825 OAKWOOD DR.................................. LAKE WALES......... 12/6/2023........$299,900 323 HARPER ESTATES CIR.......................... LAKE WALES........ 12/21/2023........ $321,600 1333 SHADY LANE DR................................. LAKE WALES........12/22/2023........$325,000
LAKELAND
6538 EVERGREEN PARK DR.......................... LAKELAND....... 12/20/2023........ $514,500 1838 VIA LAGO DR......................................... LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023....... $550,000 942 HAMILTON PLACE LN............................. LAKELAND........12/22/2023....... $630,000 5311 BLOOMFIELD BLVD................................ LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023....... $654,000 6556 HERITAGE PARK PL............................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2023....... $760,000 214 MIRAMAR RD.......................................... LAKELAND..........12/7/2023.......$800,000 5424 DELPHI HILLS CIR................................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023.....$1,200,000
WINTER HAVEN 813 LAKE ELBERT PARK......................... WINTER HAVEN........ 12/27/2023.......... $50,100 3285 AVENUE Q..................................... WINTER HAVEN......... 12/6/2023.........$114,000 320 26TH ST.......................................... WINTER HAVEN........12/19/2023........ $133,800 2500 21ST ST APT 76.............................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2023........$150,000
1041 TERRY AVE............................................. LAKELAND........12/22/2023......... $59,000 4295 SUMMER LANDING DR APT 104........... LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023........ $100,700 623 W 8TH ST................................................ LAKELAND........12/22/2023........$108,000 6994 TREYMONT DR.................................... LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023..........$111,000 205 WILDLIFE TRL......................................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2023........ $125,000 6994 TREYMONT DR.................................... LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023........ $136,000 2624 MINNEOLA DR...................................... LAKELAND........ 12/21/2023........ $175,000 9 EL RECODO................................................ LAKELAND......... 12/4/2023........$180,000 6374 TORRINGTON CIR................................. LAKELAND........12/19/2023........$184,600
122 22ND ST........................................... WINTER HAVEN........12/22/2023....... $260,000 4342 TESTANA LN................................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2023....... $284,000 3639 GIORGIO DR................................. WINTER HAVEN........ 12/21/2023....... $285,000 3333 COSTELLO CIR.............................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2023........$292,500 3349 COSTELLO CIR.............................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2023....... $294,500 3308 COSTELLO CIR............................. WINTER HAVEN........ 12/21/2023........ $296,100 1449 AUSTIN ST..................................... WINTER HAVEN....... 12/28/2023....... $296,900 3810 FIELDSTONE CIR........................... WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2023.........$297,700 4135 BEDFORD AVE............................... WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2023....... $299,000
3100 STONEWATER DR.................................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023.......$208,000 1381 DAISY FIELD DR.............................. WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2023........$299,500 7248 TWIN CEDAR LN................................... LAKELAND......... 12/6/2023....... $240,000 5056 BRENTON MANOR AVE................ WINTER HAVEN........12/19/2023.......$300,000 1224 OLIVE ST................................................ LAKELAND......... 12/6/2023....... $240,000 4335 TESTANA LN................................. WINTER HAVEN....... 12/20/2023.......$300,000 408 NIGHTHAWK DR.................................... LAKELAND........ 12/27/2023........$243,500 3312 COSTELLO CIR............................... WINTER HAVEN........12/19/2023....... $300,700 6503 SEDGEFORD DR................................... LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023........ $247,000 107 KRENSON BAY LOOP....................... WINTER HAVEN........ 12/27/2023........ $301,900 1130 N SWINDELL AVE.................................... LAKELAND....... 12/29/2023....... $265,000 738 EAGLE LANDING BLVD.................... WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2023....... $304,500 4088 WINDING VINE DR............................... LAKELAND....... 12/20/2023....... $266,000 3907 PALAZZO PL.................................. WINTER HAVEN........12/19/2023......... $311,400 649 WOODWARD ST..................................... LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023....... $285,000 2120 CARTGATE LN................................ WINTER HAVEN........12/19/2023........$314,400 1715 CAMPHOR DR........................................ LAKELAND..........12/7/2023.......$300,000 3295 COSTELLO CIR.............................. WINTER HAVEN....... 12/26/2023........ $315,000 6866 BENDELOW DR..................................... LAKELAND....... 12/20/2023........$310,000 2140 CENTRAL AVE............................... WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2023........ $315,000 1046 RIVERSHORE AVE................................. LAKELAND......... 12/6/2023........$325,000 3251 COSTELLO CIR............................... WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2023........ $318,600 5788 ARLINGTON RIVER DR.......................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2023........$347,000 2108 CARTGATE LN............................... WINTER HAVEN........12/22/2023........$322,400 5213 MONTSERRAT DR.................................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023........$347,000 2841 CATHY BLVD................................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/5/2023....... $330,000 5333 OXFORD MANOR CIR........................... LAKELAND..........12/7/2023....... $350,000 3291 COSTELLO CIR............................... WINTER HAVEN....... 12/20/2023........$333,200 6019 DOLOSTONE DR................................... LAKELAND......... 12/6/2023....... $354,900 3903 PALAZZO PL.................................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2023....... $334,600 3176 OTTO DR............................................... LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023.......$380,000 405 CHANCE AVE.................................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/6/2023........$339,300 1225 TIMBERIDGE LOOP................................ LAKELAND......... 12/5/2023....... $385,000 3275 COSTELLO CIR.............................. WINTER HAVEN........12/22/2023........ $340,100 319 BEACON RD............................................. LAKELAND........ 12/21/2023....... $393,000 2116 CARTGATE LN................................ WINTER HAVEN....... 12/28/2023........$347,400 2055 ROCKY POINTE DR............................... LAKELAND........12/19/2023.......$400,000 3211 COSTELLO CIR............................... WINTER HAVEN........ 12/27/2023........$352,600 5440 KNIGHTS LANDING DR........................ LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023........$410,000 161 FISH HAWK DR................................. WINTER HAVEN........ 12/21/2023....... $353,000 4173 PRIMA LAGO CIR................................... LAKELAND........12/19/2023........ $412,000 1105 SANDPIPER LOOP.......................... WINTER HAVEN........ 12/21/2023........$379,600 4226 SALT SPRINGS LN.................................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2023........$415,000 1117 BRIMSTONE CIR.............................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/5/2023.......$400,000 3648 COVINGTON LN................................... LAKELAND......... 12/6/2023........$416,000 1077 SANDPIPER LOOP.......................... WINTER HAVEN......... 12/5/2023........$422,700 2238 BELLA LUNA CIR................................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2023........$422,500 1712 BOYS CLUB RD................................ WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2023........$575,000 5029 SHEFFIELD RD....................................... LAKELAND...........1/5/2024.......$430,000 1308 MIRROR TER................................. WINTER HAVEN........12/19/2023....... $595,000 6695 BRECKINRIDGE CT............................... LAKELAND....... 12/26/2023....... $470,000 337 HAMILTON SHORES DR.................. WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2023.......$830,000 57
SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW
GRAB YOUR BIKE AND ROLL WITH US FEBRUARY 17TH @ 3:30 PM TUNE UP THAT BIKE AND RIDE WITH US! WE MEET AT THE BIKE SHOP, LEISURELY BIKE THROUGH TOWN AS A GROUP, AND WATCH THE WORLD-FAMOUS CYPRESS GARDENS SKI SHOW ON LAKE SILVER. AFTER THAT, WE RIDE BACK AND MEET AT GROVE ROOTS TO HANG OUT.
MEET AT THE BIKE SHOP
249 THIRD ST. SW, WINTER HAVEN | (863) 299-9907 | FB@SLOWROLLSKISHOW
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58
We’re All Stardust ARIES
TAURUS
GEMINI
CANCER
March 21 - April 19
April 20 - May 20
May 21 - June 20
June 21 - July 22
Hey, fiery Aries! February ignites your passion for adventure. Embrace the thrill of the unknown, and let your bold spirit lead the way. It’s time to conquer new cosmic realms and let your spontaneity set the stage for exciting journeys.
Cosmic earthlings, February brings a sense of stability. Nurture your dreams like a gardener tends to a beloved oasis. Let patience be your guide and watch as your cosmic garden blossoms with the beauty of steadfast dedication.
Cosmic twins, your versatility shines bright in February. Express your creativity through various channels and let your curious mind guide you through diverse cosmic landscapes. Adaptability is your superpower; use it to explore the wonders of life.
Love and harmony surround you in February, Cancer. Nurture your relationships with warmth and kindness. Let your compassionate heart create a haven of love wherever you go. The universe responds to the tenderness you share.
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
SCORPIO
July 23 - August 22
August 23 - September 22
September 23 - October 22
October 23 - November 21
Cosmic royalty, February illuminates your path. Let your inner star shine brightly, blending strength with compassion. Spread your light, inspire others, and paint the world with the vibrant colors of your unique creativity.
Hey there, cosmic healers! February whispers of self-care and introspection. Take moments for rejuvenation and self-reflection. Embrace the quiet spaces, allowing the universe to replenish your spirit and guide you towards inner harmony.
Cosmic balancers, unite! February is about finding equilibrium. Balance your scales by harmonizing work and play, self and others. Embrace your diplomatic nature, creating peace in your connections and the cosmic energy around you.
Deep and mysterious Scorpio, February brings transformation. Embrace change and release what no longer serves you. Rise anew, like the phoenix, and let your renewed spirit shine with intensity and resilience.
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
AQUARIUS
PISCES
November 22 - December 21
December 22 - January 19
January 20 - February 18
February 19 - March 20
Hey, adventurous archer! February calls for exploration and expansion. Follow your wanderlust and seek wisdom in uncharted territories. Let curiosity be your guide and embark on a cosmic journey of self-discovery.
February shines a cosmic spotlight on your ambitions, Capricorn. Channel your practical magic and climb celestial mountains. Trust your earthly wisdom, knowing the universe supports your journey toward manifesting your dreams.
Hey, cosmic innovator! February sparks your revolutionary spirit. Embrace your unique perspective, let creativity flow, and be the change you wish to see. Paint the world with your visionary hues and inspire others to dance to your cosmic rhythm.
In February, dive into your dreamy depths, Pisces. Embrace intuition and artistic flow. Let your cosmic imagination roam freely and create masterpieces that speak to the soul. Your dreams are galaxies waiting to be explored.
59
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