PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid FT Myers FL Permit #87 Postal Customer ECRWSS
1
havenmagazines.com
2
3
He could fix a bike, or mend a daughter’s broken heart…
Then it was our turn. Dad wasn’t able to manage the house and shop anymore, so we needed to find a place with caring people and the right amenities to keep him smiling. We found that at Savannah Court. With restaurant-style dining, activities and a comfortable atmosphere, dad has a list of new priorities!
ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE
Lake Wales 863.679.8246
12 E. Grove Avenue • Lake Wales, FL33853 www.SavannahCourtLakeWales.com Assisted Living Facility License # 9383
Haines City 863.422.5204
301 Peninsular Drive • Haines City, FL 33844 www.SavannahCourtHainesCity.com Assisted Living Facility License # 9382
Bartow 863.519.3398
290 Idlewood Avenue • Bartow, FL www.SavannahCourtBartow.com Assisted Living Facility License # 9888
St. Cloud 407.892.8502
3791 Old Canoe Creek Road • St. Cloud, FL 34769 www.SavannahCourtStCloud.com Assisted Living Facility License # 9917
Savannah Court of Lakeland 863.816.1155
6550 N. Sacrum Loop Road • Lakeland, FL 33809 www.SavannahCourtLakeland.com Assisted Living Facility License # 10024
Savannah Cottage of Lakeland A Memory Support Community
863.815.9411
605 Carpenter’s Way • Lakeland, FL 33809 www.SavannahCottageLakeland.com Assisted Living Facility License # 9783
Happy Holidays!
Retirement Life at The Estates…
This month is all about giving back. We talk to many local charities and learn all the ways they are helping to make our community better. Hopefully you’ll be inspired to help out in any way you can. We also visit Take Heart in downtown Lakeland, a store that gives back with every purchase you make. They are literally changing people’s lives everyday. In this season of giving, we reflect on ways we can give back.
Everything You Ever Imagined
And Then Some. Betty & Rosco
Harlene & Bunny
Donna Novak & Clem Schrock
I would like to introduce a new writer to LKLD Haven. Her name is Jenna Cherry. Not only is she an artist, she is a motivator. Read her story and you’ll be inspired, I know we were. We talk with Sheriff Grady Judd, but not about his career as Sheriff. Did you know he’s a photographer? Take a look at his large portfolio of work and why he started this hobby. We eat at Cafe Roti, an Indian restaurant that just moved into a gorgeous space in downtown Lakeland. The delicious food will have you coming back. They were absolutely some of the most gracious hosts we’ve ever encountered, we will definitely be going back!
Joe & Connie
SAVE THE DATE!
As usual, there are a million things going on around Polk County. We’ve highlighted some of our favorites, just in case you need help deciding! If you have something coming up that you’d like to see in our calendar, email the details to calendar@scmginc.com
Join Us for Food, Fun and Let’s Chat about the Myths and realities of having All That a Life Plan Community Offers You.
As we end 2018, I like to thank all of you for supporting the magazine. We have very big plans for 2019 & can’t wait to share them with you. We want to further our goal of highlighting all of the good in our city and inspiring others as well. Read even more of our stories on our website at www.havenmagazines.com.
Wednesday, December 5 | 11 a.m.
I would also like to thank Lyndsey Venrick from The Pin and Needle Shop for creating our beautiful cover! We gave her the challenge to come up with a design & actually stitch it for us. She completed one of our favorite covers of the year, in record time. If you’re interested in seeing more of her work, creating a custom piece or purchasing something she’s made, please visit her Etsy shop @thepinandneedle.
Enjoy lunch and learn why our exceptional Community can securely say “this is the best decision we ever made!”
A Taste of Christmas & Charcuterie Samplings!
Happy Holidays to all of you! Amy Sexson Editor asexson@scmginc.com
Thursday, December 13 | 11:30 a.m. Welcome by Director of Finance at 11:30 a.m. Meet our Residents and Executives as you enjoy a “Delectable, Seasonal Taste of The Estates” in a relaxed setting, and tour our exquisite apartment homes. Reservations Required. Few Seats Remaining.
Elevated Living
• Full social calendar with a wide range of daily activities and amenities, including a brand-new fitness center with full-time personal trainer, pool, art studio, bistro, dog park and more • Chef-prepared meals and flexible dining plans • Potential future care needs met with assisted living, skilled nursing and short-term rehab on site - Without the fear of rising future healthcare costs
$5 Off
Customized Apartment Homes
• Updated floor plans from 475 to 2,500 sq. ft. • Value-added VIP Move-In Package available • Act now – before all of our customized, incredibly versatile floor plans are wait listed
with a purchase of $25 or more*
Costa | GoPro | Stance | Bridgestone Golf Pride | Ping | Titleist | Cobra | Callaway Mizuno | Puma | TaylorMade | Nike | UA
Embrace the Retirement of Your Dreams! Call to Schedule Your Visit & See Why The Estates at Carpenters Was Voted “Best of the Best”!
Lakeside Village 1527 Town Center Blvd. 863-687-7274 * Excludes golf balls. Must bring in ad by 1/31/2019
863-248-5076 | Financial.EstatesAtCarpenters.com 1001 Carpenters Way | Lakeland, FL 33809 havenmagazines.com
Like Us on
6
7
LKLD D E C E M B E R
CONTENTS
FEATURES PROFILES.........................................................................38 COVER STORY...............................................................18 RESTAURANT................................................................34 TRAVEL............................................................................ 60
6.......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 10.................................................................LOCAL NEWS 12............................................................... TOP 10 TO DO 26..................................................................................ARTS 37 ..................................................................... COCKTAIL 45.....................................................................CALENDAR 55..........................................SOLD HOMES LISTINGS 62........................................................ IN THE MOMENT
havenmagazines.com
8
DECEMBER VOLUME 2 ISSUE 3 Publisher Barbara Rakoczy Editor Amy Sexson Advertising Director Kim Edwards Contributing Writers Tara Crutchfield Amy Sexson Barry Friedman Lauren Dickman Bailey Hill Jenna Cherry Contributing Photographers Amy Sexson Tara Crutchfield Bill Siegel Graphic Designer Steven Maynard Sr. Sales Consultant Gary Peach Digital Specialist Kathy Woodruff Account Executives Chris Campbell President Sun Central Media Group Chris Sexson LKLD HAVEN is published twelve times a year by the Sun Central Media Group. Haven distributes 13,500 copies a month with 7,701 mailed to homes and 5,800 copies available at select locations throughout Lakeland. For advertising information please contact: brakoczy@scmginc.com For editorial information please contact: asexson@scmginc.com To submit to our calendar: calendar@scmginc.com Office: 99 Third Street N.W. Winter Haven, Florida 33881 863-533-4183
2017 Digital Excellence for Best Social Media 2018 Best Design: Cover Best Redesign 9
LOCAL NEWS WORDS Barry Friedman/LkldNow.com
Effort to Attract Rocky Horror Daily Air Service Skit Draws Taking Off Apologies
Selvage Returns As City Plans a Special Election
South Lakeland At 94, Terrace Hotel Is Readied May Get an Emergency For Its Closeup Room
Efforts to attract daily airline service to Lakeland Linder Airport got a boost when city commissioners pledged up to $1 million in red-light camera fines to a minimum revenue guarantee for any airline that is ultimately attracted. Airport leaders are looking to the private sector, state government and other cities for the rest of the $4 million needed for the escrow fund.
Less than a year after he voluntarily left the Lakeland City Commission, Don Selvage is back. He was selected to serve the unexpired term of Michael Dunn until a special election is held Jan. 15. Dunn resigned after he was indicted for second-degree murder in a case involving a man shot while trying to leave Dunn’s store with a stolen hatchet. Selvage said he will not run in the election.
Two decades after it was restored and re-opened, the 94-yearold, eight-story Terrace Hotel is getting an exterior makeover. The $2 million project is backed by the same investment group assembled by Lakeland native Rob Scharar that bankrolled the downtown landmark’s $7 million restoration. Work is expected to be completed by summer.
Accusations flew after two actors simulated a Trump assassination during pre-show skits at the annual Rocky Horror Picture Show extravaganza at the Polk Theatre. The theater apologized. The event’s promoters said they told the actors to cut the scene. The actors said no such order was given. We don’t know what really happened, but we suspect next year’s fundraising event will get tighter pre-show scrutiny.
A company called Zack 1030 has bought property across Florida Avenue from Merchants Walk and filed a permit application showing they plan to place a free-standing emergency room there. Disclosure of the plans, first reported by Tampa Bay Business Journal, prompted Facebook comments from people fearing more traffic on Florida Avenue and Eastway Drive.
Florida Music Venue Southern’s New Coming to Mascot: Building Dixieland Crane
Free Downtown Tapestries Seen CannabisValet Expands to As a Step Toward Tracking Firm Some Afternoons Building Murals Wins Major Funding
The building boom continues at Florida Southern College. Rodda Construction is building a home for the new Doctor of Physical Therapy program on Florida Avenue near Ridgewood Street and an expanded Computer Sciences program at Lake Hollingsworth Drive and Callahan Court. Coming soon: Apartments at Ingraham Avenue and Palmetto Street.
Valet parking in downtown Lakeland is expanding; it’s free and now available at lunchtime Wednesdays through Fridays as well as Friday and Saturday evenings. Drop off your car at the Tennessee Avenue side of the Munn Park parking lot; when you’re finishing up, send a text and your car is delivered to your location. As always, tips are appreciated by the drivers.
havenmagazines.com
In the last couple of years, LkldLive and Hillcrest Coffee emerged as listening rooms where the focus was more on the musicians than the food, beverages or conversation. Soon they will be joined by Union Hall at 1023 S. Florida Avenue in Dixieland. Musician Dan Signor, who will run the venue, plans to book national acts as well as showcase local talent. Also, The Poor Porker recently reopened with a revitalized performance space.
10
Lakeland has been slower than some cities in adopting the murals-on-buildings craze, but artist/ promoter David Collins devised a stepping stone: tapestries. He recruited 43 local artists and secured funding to paint 65 tapestries on large canvases; they were installed on buildings throughout central Lakeland last month. Coming soon: a mobile map showing all the tapestry locations.
Lakeland-based Metrc, whose RFID technology helps regulators in 11 states track the marijuana supply chain, has received $50 million in funding from two companies, including Snoop Dogg’s cannabis-focused Casa Verde Capital. Metrc is a subsidiary of Franwell, whose headquarters are on Drane Field Road, and has become a major player in tracing legal pot from plants to products.
Key West Christmas @ Swan Brewing
December 22nd, 2018 | 5pm – 11pm • Music starts at 7pm ft. Roger Bartlett of Jimmy Buffett and The Coral Reefers, John Patti and The John Frinzi Band • • Food by Chef Marcos Fernandez and Nineteen61 • • Frozen Beer Cocktails (Beañacolada and Frozen Margarita Gose) • • Book signing by Author Tom Corcoran • Roger Bartlett – Roger is the original guitarist of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer band. In the early days it was just Jimmy and Roger. Two acoustic guitars, and vocals. Roger lives and works out of New York City, playing with his band, as a sideman and as a composer and writer for albums, Theater, TV and film. John Frinzi – Hailing from Lakeland, John Frinzi is also a very talented singer / songwriter. An early demo caught the ear of legendary steel guitarist and long time Coral Reefer Band member Doyle Grisham, and their working relationship led to John’s first CD, “Into The Dawn.” His second album, “Shoreline,” showcases Frinzi’s versatility as a songwriter and vocalist. John Patti - From Singapore to Key West, Manhattan to the Caribbean, crowds of all ages and nationalities have seen John Patti bring the steel pan to the forefront of musical entertainment. Whether in a solo performance or collaboration with bands, John’s intriguing stories and skillful performance leaves long lasting and memorable impressions with any audience. JD Spradlin - No matter where you are, it’s always sunny when you hear JD Spradlin on SiriusXM’s Radio Margaritaville. Broadcasting live from the Orlando Margaritaville Café in his Parrot Perch studio, JD delivers the warmth of the sunshine state to listeners across The Americas through satellite radio, and around the world over the internet. Tom Corcoran - Tom Corcoran first moved to Florida in 1970. Corcoran’s photographs have appeared on seven Jimmy Buffett album covers. He co-wrote the Buffett hits, “Cuban Crime of Passion”, and “Fins”. His photos also have appeared on numerous book jackets, including those of Florida novelist Les Standiford (“Black Mountain” and “Last Train to Paradise”).
LAKELAND TOP 10 1 Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl
Dec. 1, 7pm in downtown Lakeland. Begin at Federal Bar Lakeland for check in, receive your t-shirt, get your (4) tokens and then the fun will begin! Revival is the first stop, followed by Frescos and then Mojo’s. End with appetizers and fun on the New Outdoor Patio at Federal Bar! This event is open to the public and is presented by EMERGE Lakeland. Register online emergelakeland. wildapricot.org
Daniel Joiner Trio: A Tribute to Vince Guaraldi
Dec. 14, 7pm at the Lake Wales Arts Center. An evening of Vince Guaraldi classics and reimagined traditional Christmas hymns! Purchase tickets at lakewalesartscouncil.org
14
6 1 Florida Tropics are back!
Dec. 1, 14, 22 and 29th at the RP Funding Center. Our hometown major arena soccer league team! Purchase tickets at www.fltropics.com
Holly Jolly Jingle Bell Jog 5k & Reindeer Dash
Sec. 15, 7:30am, Cleveland Heights Golf Course. A fun festive 5k! Proceeds from the event go to the perpetual care fund for the 3 Parks Trail. The Jingle Bell Jog is a fun festive event including a chipped 5k. Runners and walkers of all levels are welcome. (Strollers are asked to start towards the back.) For more information and registration link visit: www.JBJog.com
15 havenmagazines.com
14 & 21 8
Lakeland Christmas Parade
Dec. 6, 7-9:30pm A Storybook Christmas will take place in Downtown Lakeland. Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland are proud to host the 38th annual Lakeland Christmas Parade. More info at lakelandgov.net/ christmasparade.
Dec. 8, 10am-2pm at Munn Park. Traditional Snow Mountain! Arts and crafts vendors, rock climbing wall, live entertainment and more! www.lakelandgov.net/events/ snowfest-2018/
Forever Plaid, Plaid Tidings
Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist
Various dates Dec. 7-16 at the Lakeland Community Theatre. A hilarious Christmas musical featuring everyone’s favorite music and loveable quartet. This truly “heavensent” holiday treat will lift audiences’ spirits and fill them with nostalgia for a bygone era of classic music sung in perfect harmony. (863) 603-PLAY (7529) lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
7-16 12
Snowfest
Beginning Dec. 22 at the Polk Museum of Art. Comprised of works from a private collection. Beyond the work of Degas, the show also has more than forty additional works on paper by Degas’ artist friends and colleagues. Polkmuseumofart.org
22
Holiday Walkabout
Dec. 14 & 21, 6-9pm in downtown Lakeland. Stores and shops will be open late serving up yummy goodies (like cider and cookies) and special deals, and there will be live music on the street corners. Holiday activities for the whole family. downtownlkld.com
Holidays at Hammock Hollow: New Year Traditions from the Netherlands
Dec. 29, 10am-noon at Bok Tower Gardens. Take the “Plunge” with a wintery run through the River Walk and discover Dutch traditions with cookies and crafts at Doodle Bug Art Place. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 boktowergardens.org
29
5,000 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION REBORN
Where Art Connects Heaven and Earth ... Shen Yun’s unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multi-dimensional, deeply moving journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures— the five millenia of traditional Chinese culture. ENTIRELY NEW 2019 PRODUCTION WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA
Feb 20–24
Feb 26
Mar 13–17
St. Petersburg The Mahaffey Theater
Lakeland RP Funding Center
Orlando Dr. Phillips Center
“There is a massive power in this that can embrace the world. It brings great hope ... It is truly a touch of heaven.” —Daniel Herman, Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic
TICKETS
ShenYun.com/FL
Presented by Florida Falun Dafa Association
888-974-3698
TAMPA TOP 10 1 Jingle Bell Run Day by Day: 1968
Through Dec. 30 at The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. The exhibition presents 366 vintage black and white news photographs from a private collection, one made on each day of 1968. This exhibition gives a chronological account of each day in 1968. www.fmopa.org
Indie Flea
Dec. 16, 11am-3pm at Armature Works. Best of all things indie, located in the heart of the Tampa Bay Area. The hand selected vendors feature products ranging from handmade jewelry, letterpress cards, screen printed t-shirts to vintage treasures and more. http://theindieflea.com/ tampa-flea/
16
havenmagazines.com
7 Blow Your Own Glass Ornament at Gott Glass Gallery
7-23
14 & 15
Dec. 1, 7:30-11am at 1 Steinbrenner Dr. This fun, festive and family-friendly chiptimed 5k features a Centerfield Celebration with food & drinks (including beer & mimosas w/ proper ID), entertainment, an awesome kid’s zone, a holidaythemed costume contest, silent auction, and more. Benefits Arthritis Foundation. events.arthritis.org
Dec. 7, 5-10pm. Experience blown glass which puts you on the end of a blowpipe, paired up with a professional instructor; who will guide you through the process of making your very own holiday ornament. Register online at gottglass.com (813) 237-3473
Dec. 7-23 at Stageworks Theatre in downtown Tampa. This seasonal celebration finds the girls entertaining at the annual Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party featuring 60s versions of your favorite holiday music. (813) 374-2416 stageworkstheatre.org
Dec. 14 & 15 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Kids will have a chance to play in REAL snow! PLUS they can also make their own (artificial) snow! Your entire family will enjoy a stroll through our forest during snowfall, a visit from Santa Claus, delicious holiday treats, Christmas lights & more.
Cirque du Soleil Presents “CRYSTAL”
TFO: Home Alone in Concert
White Christmas (1954)
NYE Wrap Party 2018: Austin Powers
Dec. 19-23 at Amalie Arena. This unique arena production showcases synchronized and freestyle ice skating alongside circus discipline. All ages welcome. amaliearena.com
19
Dec. 21, 7:30pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall. A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by The Florida Orchestra. www.rutheckerdhall.com
21
14
The Winter Wonderettes
Dec. 23, 3pm at the Tampa Theatre. Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen are captivating as matched pairs of entertainers playing out a timeless story of cute misunderstandings as they travel the road to love, and the music and dancing will put you in the holiday spirit without fail. tampatheatre.org
23
Sno Fest
Dec. 31, 9pm at the Tampa Theatre. Join Dr. Evil and Mr. Bigglesworth for heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live music and dancing, the ball drop LIVE on the big screen at midnight, and an open beer-and-wine bar all night long. Purchase tickets at tampatheatre.org
31
GREAT GIFT IDEAS Under $25 Michel Design Works Soaps, Lotions, Candles From ..$6.75 Finchberry Soaps ......................................... $9.50 National Geographic Wall Maps .....................$9.99 Live Target Realistic Swimbaits Starting at $10.99 Mudpie Decorative Picture Frames ....From $12.50 Food Flipper ..................................................$12.99 Thymes Frasier Fir Home Fragrance...From $13.00 Cablz Wire Universal Sunglass Leash ..........$14.99 Seal Line Waterproof Passport Holder..........$14.99 DMT Diamond Card Knife Sharpener ..........$14.99 Fulton & Roark Award-Winning Shave Cream .$16.99 Opiniel Carbon Steel Knives ........................$16.99 Costa Trucker Hat .........................................$17.99 Ex Officio Boxers and Briefs ........................$20.00 Travel Chair Stool .........................................$22.99 Platypus Hydration System ................From $22.99 Smartwool PhD Outdoor Socks ...................$23.99 Yeti Rambler 20 oz. Tumbler ........................$24.99 Hydroflask 16 oz. Flip Top Bottle ................$24.99 Delorme Destination Gazetteers ...................$24.99 GoTravel Worldwide Power Adapter ............$24.99 $25 to $50 Saxx Underwea.....................................From$26.99 Thermarest Packable Pillow .........................$27.99 Smathers & Branson Handmade Pinpoint Key Fobs .. $28.50 Rising Shoreline Fishing Shot Pack..............$30.00 Leatherman Micra Keychain Multitool ........$32.99 Black Diamond Cosmo 160 Lumen Headlamp ..$34.99 Brazos Handmade Walking Staffs ................$34.99 Patagonia Tee Shirts ......................................$35.00 Southern Tide Tee Shirts ...............................$38.00 Waxing Poetic Bracelets.......................From$39.00 Simms Solarflex Sunhood.............................$39.99 Yeti Rambler 30 oz. Tumbler ........................$39.99 Thymes Fragrances Women’s Purfume ........$40.00 The Ridge Portable Power Bank ...................$40.00 Fulton & Roark Solid Cologne.............From$42.00 Oofos Men’s and Women’s Orthepedic Comfort Sandals ... $44.99 Buck Knives Fillet Model .............................$46.99 Royall Lyme Men’s Fragrance Line .............$48.00 HOBO Women’s Wallet.......................From $48.00 ATC Waterproof Fly Box ..............................$49.99 Sight Line Leather Fish Bracelet ..................$49.99 Terra Royal Coachman Fly Tying Starter Kit$49.99 Acorn Slipper Socks .....................................$49.99 Levi Jeans 505 & 550 Models ......................$49.99 $50 to $100 La Vie Parisienne Earrings............................$50.00 Bubba Blade Fishing Pliers...........................$54.99 Yeti Rambler 36 oz. Bottle ............................$59.99 Stetson Straw Hat..........................................$59.99 Sperry Lined Slippers ...................................$59.99 Rolf Glass American Made Wine Glasses (Set of 4) ...$59.99 Healthy Back Bag by Ameribag ...................$60.00 Olukai ‘Ohana Premium Flip Flop ...............$65.00 ENO Doublenest Hammocks ........................$69.95 Case Knives Trapper Model..........................$69.99 Kershaw Knives Scallion Model ..................$69.99
13 Fishing Spinning or Casting Outfit............From $69.99 The Ridge Minimalist Wallet (Aluminum, Titanium, Carbon Fiber)..........From $72.00 Brighton Golfer’s Belt ............................................ $75.00 Mountain Khakis Camber Pant ............................... $75.00 Orvis Battenkill Toiletry Kit ................................... $79.00 Handmade Stag Handle Desk Pens ......................... $79.99 Martin Dingman Dress Belts .................................. $79.99 Kershaw Leek Safe Assist Knife............................. $79.99 Fire Fly Fair Trade Necklace .................................. $80.00 Osprey Daypacks...........................................From $80.00 Waxing Poetic Charm Necklaces .................. From $83.00 Tilley Hats Airflow ................................................. $84.00 V-Sharp Warthog Sharpener.................................... $89.99 Cotton Brothers Men’s Wrinkle Free Sport Shirts .. $89.99 Martin Dingman Alligator Print Wallet................... $95.00 Olukai Nohea Mesh Boat Shoe ............................... $95.00 Isle Cha Cha Dress by Melis Kuzan ...................... $96.00 Rising America Made Fish Net .............................. $99.00 Southern Tide Sport Shirts ...................................... $99.50 Sperry Men’s Billfish Boat Shoe ............................ $99.99 Over $100 Chaco Z Classic Sandals ....................................... $100.00 Brighton Women’s Watches .................................. $105.00 Kabar “Honoring our Veterans” Bowie Knives .... $114.99 Benchmade Knives Griptillian Model .................. $115.00 Olukai Men’s Mea Ola Premium Flip Flop .......... $120.00 ENO Lounger DL Chair ........................................ $124.99 Full Day Fly School - Call for Details .................. $125.00 Chris Bales Gemstone & Silver Jewelry.................... From $125.00 Estate Jewelry ............................................. From $125.00 Osprey Trail Pack ........................................From$160.00 Patagonia Better Sweater ...................................... $139.00 Mountain Khakis Ranch Shearling Jacket ............ $149.99 Olukai Kulana Leather Loafer (In Black or Tan) .. $150.00 Vasque Men’s and Women’s Breeze III Hiking Boot .......... $169.99 Costa Women’s Inlet 580P Sunglasses.................. $169.99 Maui Jim MJ Sport HCL Sunglasses .................... $169.99 Orvis Fly Fishing Combo Outfit...................From $169.99 David Manley Camelbone Skinning Knife ........... $179.99 Georgia Boot Athens Side Zip Field Boot ............ $186.00 HOBO Women’s Purses................................From$188.00 ATC Menswear Watches ..............................From $190.00 Battenkill Luggage Series ............................From $198.00 Costa Women’s Loreto 580P Sunglasses .............. $199.99 Maui Jim World Cup HCL Sunglasses ................. $229.99 Ecco Men’s Track II High Goretex Boot .............. $230.00 Costa Men’s Tuna Alley 580G Sunglasses ........... $249.99 Yeti Hopper Flip 12............................................... $279.99 Kovel Convertible Bracelet with Topper..............From $295.00 Yeti Tundra Coolers (Call for Details) ............. From $299.99 Yeti Hopper 30 ...................................................... $349.99 Vintage Art Deco Jewelry ........................... From $365.00 Luminox Trident Sport Watches ........................... $375.00 Randall Made Knives ..................................From $375.00 Martin Dingman Genuine Alligator Belt .............. $395.00 Martin Dingman Genuine Alligator Wallets ......... $495.00 Roberto Coin Tiny Treasure........................From $580.00 William Henry Custom KniveFro.............From $1,250.00 Roberto Coin “Diamond by the Inch” ............... $1,340.00
Cotton Brothers Sport Shirts • Wrinkle Free
• 100% Cotton • Modern Fit
Classic Fit by:
Andy Thornal
Minimalist, RFID-blocking Wallet
Authorized Dealer
Automatic Spring Assist Manual
• Sweaters • Flannels • Tees
Purses & Wallets
Jewelry & Gifts
ANDY THORNAL COMPANY
336 Magnolia Ave SW • Winter Haven, FL 33880 • (863)299-9999 • AndyThornal.com • Mon - Sat • 10am-6pm
ORLANDO TOP 10 Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
Featuring the best electric karts in the industry, the SODI RTX. They are powerful, ergonomic, safe and environmentally friendly plus pack enough torque to take you all the way to victory lane. Also enjoy a restaurant, bowling alley, arcade & more. 9299 Universal Blvd. (407) 3740085 andrettikarting.com
Winter Park Christmas Parade
Dec. 8 from 9 - 10:30 am. 66th annual Winter Park “Ye Olde Hometown” Christmas Parade is the oldest continuous holiday parade in Central Florida. The parade travels down Park Avenue, starting at Cole Avenue and proceeding south, ending at Lyman Avenue. More than 80 organizations participate. winterpark.org
8
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Light Up UCF
Diagon Alley™, London and Hogsmeade™ are transformed with festive decorations, treats and special entertainment. And as the stars begin to shine, a stunning projection wraps Hogwarts™ castle in sparkling holiday spirit. Throughout December at Universal Orlando. www.universalorlando.com
Various dates throughout December at the CFE Arena. Orlando’s most affordable holiday tradition, offering a free holiday light show, free outdoor Holiday Film Festival, and Orlando’s largest outdoor skating rink! Other attractions include photos with Santa, rides such as the Ferris Wheel, the Light Up Express, the Arctic Glide Ice Slide, the Winter Whirl, and falling snow! lightupucf.com
Wild Art & Wine
Holiday Matsuri
Dec. 11 from 6:30-9pm at the Central Florida Zoo. Have wine & hors-d’oeuvres while the instructors guide you through your own animal painting. Food, wine, and art supplies are included in your ticket. Space is limited, register online, 21+. (407) 323-4450 www.centralfloridazoo.org
A festively themed Anime, Gaming, & Cosplay Convention at the World Center Marriott, Dec. 14-16. Karaoke, dance contests, cosplay runway and so much more. holidaymatsuri.com
14-16
11
6 Sweet & Savory
Dec. 6 from 6-10pm at The Veranda at Thornton Park. Enjoy samples from the city’s finest restaurants, bakeries, and specialty food shops along with inventive cocktails. Live entertainment in the open air courtyard, under the stars! Purchase tickets at orlandoweeklytickets.com
Winter Park Boat Parade & Ski Show
Dec. 15, 3:30-7:30pm at Rollins College Lake Virginia. A benefit for the Food Pantries at Winter Park High School and Killarney Elementary School. winterparkrotary.org to donate.
15
7-9 13-16 The Nutcracker
Dec. 7-9 & 13-16 at The Walt Disney Theater. Presented by the Orlando Ballet, this is a must see during the holidays. See showtimes & purchase tickets at drphillipscenter.org
NOUVEAU: A Glamorous New Year’s Eve
Dec. 31 beginning at 9:30pm at the Orlando Museum of Art. A luxurious evening with full museum access, special guest Jorge Estevez (WFTV),complimentary valet, open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, live music, photo booth, a DJ in the galleries, and a champagne toast as you watch a spectacular firework display at midnight. Purchase tickets in advance at www.eventbrite.com/o/ orlando-museum-of-art
31 havenmagazines.com
16
A healthy tomorrow begins today. Nothing can stand between you and your future. Scheduling your annual mammogram is the most effective defense against breast cancer. With our breast health services team, including fellowship trained mammographers and the most advanced 3D imaging technologies available, Watson Clinic can help you achieve a lifetime of cherished tomorrows.
Schedule your 3D Mammogram Today.
Your breast health. Your future.
YOUR
Breast Health Services
3D Mammography located at two convenient Lakeland locations. Watson Clinic Highlands • 2300 E. County Rd. 540A | Watson Clinic Women’s Center • 1400 Lakeland Hills Blvd.
863-680-7755, Option 3 | WatsonClinic.com/BreastHealth
havenmagazines.com
18
WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Gospel, Inc. Heart for the Homeless At 9am on weekdays, between 10 and 12 homeless women are waiting at the door of Repurpose Art Studio. Whatever walk of life has brought them to where they are, Gospel, Inc. is there to accept them with open arms and bring them into their community. In the mornings, “They come in, they have coffee, they just sit and decompress,” said Connie Lutter, Director for the art studio. They close at 11:30 for lunch when most of them go to the Talbot House. “Most of them stay there, that’s where they sleep, that’s where they eat and then they come here during the day because otherwise they’d just be walking the streets. This is their safe haven,” she said. This “safe haven,” Repurpose Art Studio is just one of the many initiatives Gospel, Inc. has created to assist and empower the homeless. After lunch, the women return to go upstairs where there is a room of sewing machines and art supplies. They spend the rest of the day sewing and creating. As a creative space, Brian Seeley, founder of Gospel, Inc. said, “There’s a therapeutic side to that, but then there’s also an opportunity for them to earn an income.” The art studio has paid internships and is currently doing a 4-month internship where six women are being paid by the hour to learn to sew. They take their products and sell them at the farmers market. They have the chance to earn a dignified income, of which 75% is applied towards moving them into their own place. From Long Island, Brian became a Christian at 19. He went to Youth With a Mission in New Zealand, where, “I really encountered God and I felt God calling me to work with the homeless and go into ministry,” said Seeley.
He spent a year and a half in the South Pacific doing mission work. “I spent a lot of time living on the streets with the homeless and really entering into their world and engaging them where they were at,” he explained. “Jesus led me into a relationship with the homeless. If you read through the gospels, you’ll see Jesus constantly moving towards the outcast and confronting religious leaders who were pushing people to the margins. He was always trying to bring in the outcast and include them,” he said. “After I became a Christian, I tried to follow Jesus into that and tried to figure out how do I model Christ’s love for the homeless and the outcasts.”
This would be a community of tiny houses for the chronically homeless. Brian spoke about his vision, “For a number of years, we’ve kind of just been dreaming about what we could do for housing. Specifically, permanent housing for chronically homeless individuals. A chronically homeless individual is someone who has been homeless for a year or longer or has multiple episodes of homelessness over the course of three years and also has a disability.”
said about the village.
The chronically homeless, making up roughly 20 percent of the homeless population are in need of permanent supportive housing.
Seeley returned to Lakeland and has been sharing his excitement about the project since. At their recent “friendraiser,” the organization raised $380K, $280K of which will be added to their Gospel Town seed fund.
“We’ve just been dreaming of creating a space where those folks who need a lot of community support can have their own home, they don’t have to leave it, they can stay there for as long as they want. Then us members from the ministry would move into that village alongside them,” explained Brian.
In 2008, after his mission work, he went back to Long Island to work at his dad’s business for a year and made the decision to go full time into ministry. For him, this meant attending college at Southeastern University. In Lakeland, he continued spending much of his time diving into the lives of the homeless, building relationships with them and learning their needs. He looked at not only how he could help them with certain issues, but also from the standpoint of, “How can I break down the social barriers that typically would separate us from one another?”
Gospel, Inc. had their first “friendraiser” in 2017 where they raised over $200K, of which $100K was set aside as “seed money” for their Gospel Town plans. They began exploring the country for inspirational concepts that they could learn from and bring to Lakeland. In that process, they found Community First! Village of Austin, Texas. “To me that was everything I ever dreamed of and more coming true in Austin,” said the Gospel, Inc. founder.
“I think that approach provides a better opportunity to help when you’re kind of just there to be there,” he said. This immersion into the lives of the homeless started him on the path to begin Gospel, Inc. in 2011.
Community First! Village had already created 200+ units for the chronically homeless with 40 missional people living amongst them. Their model could be replicated and has an 87% retention rate.
In addition to the time they spent building relationships on the streets, Brian said, “We kind of became like case managers in some ways and so if someone needed to go to detox, I’d bring them to detox or I’d help them get into a program.”
They visited the village for a week, attending their symposium to learn what they’re doing and how to bring that back to Lakeland. “They have a desire to see cities across the world take on this model and apply it however it looks or fits,” he
Another project, still in the planning stages is a concept called Gospel Town.
19
An attractive aspect of that community in Austin is their microenterprise opportunities similar to those at Repurpose Art Studio. At Community First! Village, residents can earn up to $900 a month which helps them to pay their rent. “I love that about what they do. It’s more than just a home – it’s the home, it’s the community, and it’s the dignity of work,” he expressed.
The plan for Gospel Town is to scale over time. There are 250 home sites at the Austin village and Brian hopes to one day have that in Lakeland. With a heart for the homeless and his dream set in motion, Brian said, “My hope is that we be a thriving Christian community that provides quality longterm care for chronically homeless folks that includes them and their gifts in what we do together.” From service days and outreach, to connecting Gospel, Inc. to other people and resources that could help them accomplish their vision, there are plenty of ways you can get involved. With more relationally oriented volunteer opportunities, it is Brian Seeley’s hope that people will come and develop a relationship with the homeless and become a resource to them, a part of their community. Gospel, Inc. https://gospelinc.org (863) 808-9440 FB: @gospelinclkld Repurpose Art Studio FB: @repurposeartstudio
Let It Snow. Let It Sparkle!
As flurries of snow, twinkling lights and yuletide greetings fill the air, our hearts and spirits are lifted by the pure joy of Christmas time. May the spirit of the season fill you with the same sense of wonder and contentment into the New Year and beyond. Thank you for helping to make 2018 an outstanding year for us. We owe our success to the loyal support of friends and customers like you, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the kindness you have shown us.
Many Thanks & Merry Christmas
2600 Harden Blvd., Lakeland 863•688•3028 | www.MasVerdeFlorida.com
SAME DAY SERVICE CALL BEFORE NOON AND WE’LL BE THERE SAME DAY!
863-709-9400
asthma & allergy friendly™ CARPET CLEANING SPECIAL
asthma & allergy friendly™ CARPET CLEANING SPECIAL
3 ROOMS & A HALL ONLY $109
4 ROOMS & A HALL ONLY $134
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
asthma & allergy friendly™ CARPET CLEANING SPECIAL
4 ROOMS & A HALL CLEANED & PROTECTED ONLY $184
asthma & allergy friendly™ CARPET CLEANING SPECIAL
5 ROOMS & A HALL ONLY $159
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
HOME CARE PACKAGE ONLY $70 INCLUDES 2 DOORMATS & A BOTTLE OF SPOT REMOVER
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING SPECIAL
HAVE 1 PIECE CLEANED, GET THE SECOND HALF OFF
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
HARDWOOD CLEANING SPECIAL
TILE & GROUT CLEANING SPECIAL
$25 OFF
HAVE 2 AREAS CLEANED, GET THE THIRD FREE
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Cleaning Completed by 12/31/18 asthma & allergy friendly™ Certificate applies to Carpet Cleaning services only.
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
havenmagazines.com
Minimum charges apply. Not valid in combination with other coupons or offers. Certain restrictions may apply. Call for details.
20
WORDS Tara Crutchfield
VISTE
(Volunteers in Service to the Elderly) Celebrating 35 years this year, Lakelandbased nonprofit VISTE makes a priority of one of the most valuable parts of the community – the elderly. VISTE was founded by a group of volunteers who saw a need in the community for people who were no longer able to drive themselves to doctor appointments or other errands.
we’ve seen an increase in demand for services grow and grow over the years. We’ve gone from those original 40 or so clients to now over 4000 clients and then we’ve gone from those original 12 volunteers to over 1000 volunteers.” She sees the impact as two-pronged. The first of that is, assisting clients to age in their homes not only keeps them an integral part of the community, but it also saves taxpayer dollars.
In 1983, they started with around 40 clients and had volunteers drive them around to where they needed to go. Word spread quickly, and they made the effort to formalize, becoming a United Way Agency and obtaining 501(c)(3) status.
“The other option that a lot of these clients have is to go into a nursing home. Most of them cannot afford to live in an assisted living facility,” she relayed.
“Transportation remains the cornerstone of our program, but as time has gone on, we’ve added more and more programs to meet the need,” explained VISTE’s Community Engagement Director, Ashley Miller.
If someone can no longer drive or cook for themselves and find it necessary to go to a nursing home, it’s often Medicare picking up some of that expense. But, by investing in an organization like VISTE, they can effectively keep people out of the nursing home.
“Our mission is to keep people safe and independent in their own home,” she said.
“There are some times when it’s not safe for someone to stay in their home, but there are instances where they just might be teetering on the edge and these support services can keep them aging in place longer,” she said. “I think by volunteers and donors supporting VISTE, they’re investing in part of what makes our community really great and that’s our elders.”
All of VISTE’s clients are 70 or older and live in Lakeland, Bartow, Ft. Meade, and Mulberry, with the average client being a female in her early 80’s living alone. Much of what they do has a volunteer interaction aspect to it. “That’s something that we always want to focus on – not only the services we’re delivering but that socialization that’s so important to people who are alone,” Miller said.
The second part of their impact is that of volunteers, allowing them to engage in philanthropy. Volunteers from ages 3 to 95, Miller said, “I think a lot of times they are getting as much out of it as the client is.”
With a milestone birthday of 35 years, Miller reflected on the impact VISTE has had on the community and those they seek to help. “In America, the fastest growing population today is the elderly. What is happening more and more,
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 -
21
Value Imports Plus Mercedes-Benz specialist sales • service • parts
INVITE US FIRST! SAVE $50 SAVE $25 $10 OFF the First Five Cleans For Recurring Service.
1440 GeorGe Jenkins Blvd., lakeland call for an appt. 863-937-8004
New customers only.
$25 OFF a One Time Clean. 12/31/2016
Minimum of two hours. New customers only.
Molly Maid of West Orange & South Lake
www.valueiMportsplus.coM
Molly Maid® of Kissimmee, St. Cloud & Lakeland 407-877-0184
407-498-2256 • MollyMaid.com
GiveWell Community Foundation presents...
YEAR-END GIVING TIPS
Tip #1: Start Planning Now
Tip #2: Bunching Charitable Gifts
Tip #3: Give Now. Decide Later.
Review your income and stocks to understand the impact on your taxes and estate. Be sure to complete your year-end charitable giving by December 31st to receive a tax benefit for 2018.
A Donor-Advised Fund makes it easy to bunch several years-worth of charitable contributions into a single year to clear the standard deduction hurdle.
A fund lets you take your time deciding when and where your tax-deductible donations should go. It also simplifies giving to multiple organizations.
Main Office 1501 S. Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803 863-683-3131
havenmagazines.com
Satellite Office 20 3rd St. SW, Suite 307 Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-683-3131
218451
HoMe of tHe $99 “a” service
giveCF.org 22
Of the many challenges that Polk County seniors face, Ashley mentioned two of the most problematic and apparent issues. With mental health being just as important as physical health, the social isolation some seniors face can be devastating. Many of their clients live alone without family or friends nearby. Miller explained, “That interaction that volunteers have with them whether it’s a phone call or a delivery of something, sometimes they are stepping in as a surrogate family or becoming a friend or someone that they can count on.” The other major problem is food insecurity. There are elderly members of the community who have to choose between paying their electric bill or prescription copay over buying groceries. Through VISTE’s supplemental grocery program, in which 1500 households are enrolled, seniors are given a box of food each month, allowing them to stretch their dollar and hopefully make them more food secure. While assisting with all the heavy-hitting issues seniors face, VISTE also makes individualizing them and making them feel special a priority. All of their clients receive a birthday card during the month of their birthday, and their clients who are 90 and older are offered a birthday cake, goody bag, and bouquet of flowers.
“We chose that demographic (90 and older) because these are people that grew up in the Great Depression when sugar and flour were being rationed and unless their families were in the position to have that kind of celebration, some of them didn’t have those birthday parties and celebrations that we remember having as children.”
placemats and bags for the meals, chef and kitchen staff volunteer their time for the three days leading up to delivery, 150 volunteers will come together to snap 400 pounds of fresh pole beans, and flowers are donated by Sunshine Growers. “It’s amazing to watch members of the community show up on that day and get in a line that wraps around the building to deliver just one or two meals,” said Miller.
Also, someone who is over 90 has likely outlived many family and friends, so for VISTE volunteers to step in to celebrate them on their birthday is a special sentiment.
Everything VISTE does for the community, of course, takes funding. Born from their annual fundraising campaign, over the last three years, they’ve had an online fundraising platform called “Serve a Senior.”
Volunteers do everything from baking the cakes, decorating them, putting together goodie bags, and donating flowers. This is a fantastic opportunity for students as they can earn community service hours for baking cakes.
The initiative of Bill Mutz who was their campaign chair, Mutz thought VISTE was missing a large demographic of donors by not participating in online campaigns.
Also special, is the delivery of turkey dinners for Thanksgiving. VISTE has been delivering turkey dinners to clients the day before the holiday for 22 years now. They started the program delivering just 100 meals out of a restaurant that was where Harry’s is now, downtown. They used the space to prepare the meals, volunteers would deliver them, and every year the program grew.
For a long time, donors were able to go online to donate, but they didn’t have a focused effort until the Serve a Senior program. This peer to peer fundraising event has community members become “team captains” over a thirty-day period. During this time, they share it with their friends, who share with their friends, and so on, leading to a snowball effect of donations.
Now operating out of the RP Funding Center, VISTE will deliver 1800 meals. Volunteers will decorate and color
23
Miller expressed, “We’ve had success in the last three years in raising between $20K - $30K just online over that period of thirty days to add to our annual fundraising campaign which ultimately has a goal of $350K.” If you would like to become a Volunteer in Service to the Elderly, VISTE has flexibly volunteering options for you. They’re able to tailor the volunteer opportunities to your availability, so you could help an hour a week or on a recurring basis to improve the lives of Polk County seniors. Because of the explosion in growth of the program, VISTE’s largest need currently are for volunteers to deliver hot meals every Tuesday and Thursday. Ten years ago, they were delivering 100 meals twice a week, that number has now gone up to over 350. Holiday volunteering opportunities are also available. The week before Christmas, volunteers can spread a little extra cheer by delivering gifts to clients. For more information on volunteering, email Ashley Miller at ashley@viste.org or fill out a volunteer application online at http://viste.org/become-a-vistevolunteer VISTE www.viste.org 1232 E Magnolia St, Lakeland (863) 284-0828
havenmagazines.com
24
WORDS Tara Crutchfield
GiveWell Community Foundation Give help. Give hope. Give well. $161M – that’s how much money GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) has granted since its inception twenty years ago, and, over those twenty years, the nonprofit has made giving easier for its fundholders. If you aren’t familiar with Community Foundations, President and CEO Terry Simmers explained that they are a 501(c) (3) public charity dedicated to make a particular region better and stronger. Though they are a nonprofit, they are not a typical service provider. The services they provide are intended to promote impactful change in their community and to assist donors with their philanthropic goals. They are more of a “connector” between donors and nonprofits, according to Simmers. GiveWell Community Foundation does not compete with other nonprofits, Simmers explained. “We don’t fundraise… we house the assets for fundholders to give out (to nonprofits) into the future.” “The Foundation is made up of a broad base of donors – people who are passionate about animals, and people who are passionate about arts and culture, or passionate about education. What they all have in common is they want a better community,” said Communications Manager for GiveWell Community Foundation, Dave Walter. “We try to bring those people all to the table and work together to create a better now and a better future.” From July 2017 to June 2018, the Foundation granted 948 grants totaling
$21M to nonprofits. Ninety-three percent of those grants were awarded to Florida nonprofits, with 82 percent of them going into one of the three counties they serve. With various fund options, GWCF currently is home to more than 300 individual funds and growing. “Donoradvised funds” are the most popular, making up almost half of the charitable funds at the Foundation. More than 60 nonprofits have established what is called an “agency fund” to invest their savings and be part of their collective investment pool. The Foundation also houses “community funds” for public parks in Lakeland and Winter Haven to ensure their preservation for future generations. Other fund types include designated, legacy, memorial, field of interest, and unrestricted funds. Establishing a fund with the Community Foundation is simple, and the process can be personalized to meet your charitable giving goals. Once a fund is established, fundholders can take their time deciding where and when their donations are distributed. The Foundation can take care of the rest. GWCF is able to handle the daunting administrative aspects of philanthropy, such as giving to multiple organizations and turning non-cash assets into cash donations for nonprofits. What projects are GiveWell proudest of? “We love seeing the impact each year from our grants... (and) last year, we responded to Hurricane Irma by creating the Disaster Relief Fund... to provide longterm relief throughout Polk County,” said
25
Simmers. The Community Foundation also offers two annual grant cycles called “Impact Polk” and “Empower Polk.” He described Impact Polk as “an annual competitive grant program of the GiveWell Community Foundation with the goal of addressing community needs throughout Polk County.” Empower Polk was launched this year as a new grant cycle with a goal of empowering local nonprofits and “meeting needs that will help them fulfill their mission and support our community more effectively.” It would be an understatement to say that GiveWell Community Foundation has touched every aspect of the community. Discussing the organization’s community impact, Simmers said, “The community leaders who established the Foundation wanted to establish a culture of philanthropy here in our community. They wanted to invest in their community, and, today, there are more than 300 active charitable funds at GiveWell Community Foundation. In addition to grantmaking, the Foundation provides insight to fundholders and nonprofits. Fundholders have the peace of mind of knowing that their donations are truly making an impact. We also meet with many nonprofits to provide insight and expertise and learn from them about pressing needs throughout our community.” GiveWell Community Foundation 1501 Florida Ave S, Lakeland 20 3rd St SW #307, Winter Haven https://www.givecf.org
ARTS WORDS & ARTWORK Jenna Cherry
The goodness going on now was certainly not always the case, so if you are in the midst of turmoil and maybe even struggling with mental health issues, do not lose hope. I wanted to include some invaluable practices that changed my life. Of course, at the top of this list is finding a good counselor, a good doctor, and actively seeking the help you need. Here are some practical things to do to help you feel better:
In the fall of 2016, I found myself digging through online forums about mental health issues. It was all very new to me, yet so many feelings shared online were so familiar to me. I had been diagnosed with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) right before moving out and starting college. For almost a year, the illness was encompassing and heavy. Everyday was a struggle with this cyclical depression and anxiety that I couldn’t seem to combat.
1. Sleep - we cannot expect to function fully or healthily without a good sleep routine. Strive for rest and health over productivity
I’d search online for answers, solutions, or recommendations, and always came up with nothing. A lot of people were feeling awful, but not a lot of people were finding answers. There was an astonishing lack of hope. After months of counseling, finding a medication that worked, and holding on to hope, I started to feel better. It seemed like the PMDD was less in charge, and I was gaining some footing in being myself again. I wanted to offer anything that helped me as a solution for others who were feeling as stuck as I was. So I started drawing and making wall hangings and using any spare minute as a creative outlet, mostly, because I had to. Some days the only thing that helped was tying knots in yarn.
2. Community - it is so good for you to have a group of friends you can text if you are having a rough day. Have some friends you can get a meal with, and have a special person you can be completely honest with. 3. Distractions - it is so okay to have happy little things to keep you grounded (i.e. watch a favorite show, play with a pet, listen to music, etc.) I think we would all go a little crazy if we only focused on our feelings, it is really good to have things that take your mind off of things. 4. Creativity - make something every day. Make your bed. Make a clean kitchen. Make a journal entry. I think creativity fills our days with magic that would not have otherwise existed.
Jumping to now, I am a radically different person. I am healed, and I’m mostly free from the nasty symptoms of PMDD. Starting my own creative business was one of the things that helped me most. I had something to look forward to everyday, and having things I wanted to accomplish kept depression in check as I was motivated to get out of bed and work.
5. Doing hard work - focus on the work in your hands and strive to put yourself aside for a bit. Hard work heals lots of things. Some other quick ideas: call someone you haven’t talked to in a while, go thrifting with a friend, start a good movie, deep clean your space, go for a drive with good music or a podcast, go to bed early, divert your attention from yourself by taking care of something or someone else, call your dearest friend and let them know you need to let feelings out, and try going to some places you’ve never been before in your own town.
Twenty Seven has evolved and changed so much in this first year of business. I am so amazed and thankful for the support of community. I sell prints of my art and do custom branding work for small businesses. In addition to the online shop and wonderful Instagram community Twenty Seven has fostered, I was able to set up a physical storefront in “The Shop Across The Street” in the Dixieland area of Lakeland. The shop houses my prints, and retro antiques I have curated. And then, there is the occasional pop up market I am able to join. It has been such a beautiful journey, and it seems with every bit of business growth, there has been some healing done in my heart and another beautiful lesson learned.
havenmagazines.com
@twentysevenlkld twentysevenlkld.com
26
27
Where Your Smile is Our Priority
For the
Holidays try baking this easy Honey Orange Cookies with 2/3 C. 1/2 C. 1/4 C. 1/4 C. 1 2 1/4 C. 1 Tsp. 1 Tsp. 1/2 Tsp. 1/4 Tsp. 1/4 Tsp.
Ingredients: Butter, Softened Firmly Packed Brown Sugar Sugar Leighton’s Honey Egg All-Purpose Flour Baking Soda Freshly Grated Orange Zest Ground Ginger Ground Nutmeg Ground Cinnamon
Frosting: 2 C. Powdered Sugar 3-4 Tbsp. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
1. Heat oven to 350°F. 2. Combine butter, brown sugar and sugar in bowl. Beat at medium speed until creamy. Add Leighton’s honey and egg; continue beating until well mixed, scraping bowl if necessary. Add all remaining cookie ingredients; beat at low speed until well mixed. 3. Shape dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges start to brown. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; remove to cooling rack. Cool completely. 4. Combine powdered sugar and enough orange juice for desired spreading consistency in bowl; mix until smooth. Spread frosting over cooled cookies.
Leighton’s Pure Honey! All Natural, No Additives, Kosher!
Look for Leighton’s Honey at your local grocery store 863-422-1773 www.leightonshoney.com www.FB.com/LeightonsHoney havenmagazines.com
28
• • • •
Nature’s Sweetener Nature’s Energy Food Nature’s Skin Care Nature’s Cough Suppressant
WORDS Bailey Hill
Dyeing for you Emma and Aspen Dobratz are the young entrepreneurs behind Emma’s Yarn who got their start in Winter Haven, Florida. What originally started as a lesson about ratios for school, turned into a full-time job for both sisters. “It was a hands-on project for learning proportions,” said Emma. Emma, 17, is homeschooled, so her crafty mom used art to teach her about math and science. She learned about how bits of different colors came together to make something new and beautiful. She enjoyed it so much that she kept doing it and loved the results. “Before I joined, Emma dyed small portions. Then we started dyeing together and wholesales,” said Aspen. Aspen recently graduated from college with a degree in Anthropology and after seeing what her sister was doing with the creative process of the yarn, she knew she had to hop on-board. Aspen is the organized, business-minded half of the pair. She manages their social media, schedules their trunk shows, and communicates with the seventeen (and counting) stores they sell their products to. Don’t think that doesn’t stop her from getting her hands dirty, though. She dyes yarn with her sister and they love working together. For anyone that hasn’t experienced the yarn dyeing process, it’s not quite as simple as you might imagine. They first begin with white yarn, dip it into a pot of water and heat it up to their desired temperature, using acid dyes to make the perfect color. Next they rinse the yarn, hang it to dry overnight before packaging it up for buyers. Quality and ratios make a huge difference here. The sisters have a giant book of their “recipes” for perfection. Each color takes time to refine.
Part of what makes Emma’s Yarn unique is their knack for color. They love seeing what works well together, creating new vibrant hues, and producing multi-color yarns as well. They experiment often and are constantly growing the amount of options they offer to the public. One of their favorite parts of the process is naming the color. They choose catch phrases like “Hot Tamale” and “Wish You Were Beer” instead of generic names to make them stand out. The girls’ mother is knitting-obsessed, so yarn has been a part of their everyday life for years. They learned to knit basically at the same time as when other children learn to tie their shoes. Before moving to the sunshine state, the family lived in Michigan, where their aunt owned a yarn shop. Their mother worked there throughout high school and brought the idea to town when they moved. Laura Dobratz opened Four Purls at a small location for fun. She had friends here that had a knitting group and she wanted to open something different for our city. The Dobratz family was shocked at the positive response they got after opening. Now, years later, they have moved to their third location which is much larger, making them the largest yarn shop in central Florida. Emma and Aspen sell their biggest selection of yarn at their mother’s store. You can also find them in New York City, Colorado, Georgia, Cocoa Beach, and beyond. Four Purls Yarn Shop 334 3rd St NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881 (863) 662-8288 www.fourpurls.com
29
From Gaga to Grandpa, DON’T MISS A MOMENT.
SANTA • FLORIDA SNOW • CRAFTS ACTIVITIES AND SO MUCH MORE!
FREE
SERVICES
TV ACCESSORY
• Comprehensive hearing evaluations • Evaluation and programming of hearing aids,
cochlear implants, tinnitus devices, and more!
with purchase a pair of premium hearing aids
• Wax Removal • Positional Vertigo Treatment • Custom ear molds, hearing protection & swim plugs
Call today to schedule your
FREE HEARING SCREENING 863-646-EARS (3277)
Dr. Kayla G. Wilkins, Au.D. CCC-A
ASPIRE
HEARING & BALANCE 635 Midflorida Drive, Suite 2
Lakelands Only Board Certified Cochlear Implant Audiologist
H I S TO R I C D OW NTOW N
Saturday
LAKE
WA
Lakeland, Fl 33813 www.aspirehearing.com
LES
December 8
Farmer’s Market Time: 9am-1pm
local
Saturday
December 8
Christmas Parade
EVERYTHING FOR THE GATOR FROM CLOTHING TO JEWELRY
Time: 6pm
Local
SHOPPING • FUN FOOD • TALENT
Mention this ad for
20% OFF can’t be used with any other discount
700 S. FLORIDA AVE. LAKELAND, FL 33801
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: KMAINSTREETLW@GMAIL.COM havenmagazines.com
863-683-3434 30
Polk State inaugurates Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti as College’ s 5th President Polk State College inaugurated Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti as the institution’s fifth president on Nov. 15th, culminating a week-long celebration, Falconetti’s first year of service, and raising $155,830 for student scholarships. More than 400 students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members, and representatives from colleges and universities across Florida and the U.S. convened for the investiture ceremony in the Polk State Winter Haven Campus Health Center, where Falconetti was formally sworn into office. “It is with incredible gratitude and honor that I stand before you today as the fifth president of Polk State College, where student success is our success, and everyone plays an integral role in the transformative power Polk State has on students and the greater community,” Falconetti said. Falconetti’s investiture address highlighted Polk State’s rich history, commitment to the community, and focus on pervasive excellence. She emphasized the importance of serving students from all walks of life and continuing to enhance services to ensure they persevere on the path to their degrees. At the core of her message was the College’s mission to provide access to affordable, quality higher education and dedication to filling local workforce needs. “With 70 percent of Polk State students staying right here in our community after graduation, their success is truly ours, Polk County,” she said. “We will continue to work diligently to ensure a successful future for our students, our institution, and our community.” The Polk County Board of County Commissioners and many municipalities declared Nov. 15, 2018, as Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti Inauguration Day leading up to the
investiture ceremony. Falconetti was named President in May 2017, bringing nearly two decades of service in higher education administration at the state and national levels to Polk County’s state college. She had most recently served as Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Virginia Western Community College and as Executive Director of the Foundation.
Florida Development Council, Club Hispano de Lakeland, the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, the Lakeland Economic Development Council’s High-Skill High-Wage Initiative, Polk Vision, The Vanguard School Foundation, the Winter Haven Economic Development Council, and Winter Haven Hospital. She is also an active leader in national and statewide organizations, serving on the American Association of Community College’s Commission on Institutional Infrastructure and Transformation as well as the Steering Committee for the Florida College System Council of Presidents. Also, at the national level, she served as Special Assistant to the first Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community Colleges in Washington, D.C. She ultimately decided, however, that she wanted to serve on a college campus closest to students, faculty, staff, and the community.
In her first year at Polk State, Falconetti focused on building relationships both internally and externally, communicating with community members and hosting forums with students, faculty, and staff to learn what they most value about the College. From this collective input, she developed a vision to strengthen student success and has worked to expand partnerships that provide opportunities and support services for students. Additionally, she advocated successfully at the state level to secure recurring operational funds for the College.
Kieran Sequin, an Associate in Arts student and President of the Student Government Association on the Winter Haven Campus, illustrated Falconetti’s caring and personable approach to serving Polk State’s students. “Dr. Falconetti takes a personal interest in students,” he said. “She values every student and wants all of us to succeed.” Whether Falconetti is shooting hoops with the basketball team, engaging student leaders in important College discussions, or connecting a student in need to a scholarship opportunity, she is always putting students first, Sequin explained. Through the Polk State College Foundation’s Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti Scholarship, she can further support students she encounters on the College’s campuses and centers. Donations to the scholarship can be made online at foundation.polk.edu/ inauguration.
Several distinguished speakers Thursday reaffirmed the selection of Falconetti as Polk State’s fifth president. “The search for a new college president is no easy task. Not only does the individual have to possess significant academic credentials and an impressive track record of experience, the individual must also be the right fit for both the institution and the community. I believe Dr. Falconetti has all of that and more,” said Polk State District Board of Trustees Chair Dan Dorrell before bestowing upon Falconetti the College’s medallion. “She must also have a doctorate in energy because since her tenure as President began, Dr. Falconetti has worked tirelessly to establish her place within the community and the College.” She serves on several boards including CareerSource Polk, the Central 31
Falconetti, whose parents are Cuban exiles, has a personal commitment to affording students the opportunities that were granted to her and her family through higher education. “The collective synergy here continues to motivate and inspire as we work together toward our goals of success for Polk State’s students and the positive growth of Polk County,” Falconetti said. “We will take Polk State College to the next level, together, because student success is our success.” About Polk State College Located in Winter Haven, Florida, and established in 1964, Polk State College is a multi-campus institution serving more than 16,000 students with Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor of Science, Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees, as well as a wide range of certificate and workforce training options. The College also operates three charter high schools. Polk State’s advantages include small class sizes; hands-on learning; dedicated faculty; day and night classes; online options; affordable tuition; excellent financial aid; and a diverse community and vibrant student life, including fine arts opportunities, clubs, and intercollegiate athletics.
2018 HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW HOLIDAY HOME TOUR: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS NOW-JANUARY 6
GREAT FAMILY ACTIVITIES EACH SATURDAY
MEET MRS. CLAUS DECEMBER 9 & 23
SPONSORED IN PART BY:
1151 TOWER BLVD. | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG/CHRISTMAS
1/31/19
havenmagazines.com
1/31/19
32
WORDS Tara Crutchfield
Pints for Paws Lakeland Beer Fest 2019 In its 6th year, Bernie Little Distributors’ Pints for Paws Lakeland Beer Fest is bringing a beer experience to the community that benefits our furry friends on January 18.
Fan favorites like the Budweiser Speakeasy will be returning along with the Breckenridge Ice Room. Breckenridge is bringing a new-to-market nitro Irish stout which Stephanie says is a must-try.
Pet parent to one dog and three cats, Event Coordinator and On Premise Sales Manager for Bernie Little Distributors Stephanie Eck had the idea for a beer fest years ago. Stephanie says, “I wanted to do something that included the Humane Society because myself and all of the ownership including our president (at Bernie Little) are huge animal lovers.”
Also joining the party this year is Spiked Seltzer. With a mermaid on their logo, it only makes sense to have an 18,000-lbs tank with mermaids swimming in it.
Held annually at the RP Funding Center for the first few years, Pints for Paws moved locations to the Lake Mirror Promenade for their January 2018 event and it will be held there again in 2019. Proceeds of the event go to benefit the Humane Society of Polk County raising over $31K for the nonprofit earlier this year. The goal is to not only raise as much money as possible for Polk County’s pets but also to give beer fest-goers a “bigger and better experience” every time. “We want them to see something new, see something different making them want to come back year after year,” said Stephanie. Stephanie admits that it takes a lot of funds to bring cool new and unique things to the event, but says it is made possible by donations from Bernie Little Distributors, Anheuser-Busch and their event sponsors. This year promises quite the party with over 100 different beers to try and two stages with live music. At one end of the event, Ken Apperson will be playing the acoustic guitar, and at the other, Bud Light is throwing a 90s themed party with 90s cover songs performed by Actual Bank Robbers.
Tickets for this 21 and over event are $45 for general admission and $25 for Designated Drivers. General admission tickets come with a free souvenir pilsner sample glass, interactive beer stations, food trucks with food for purchase, and live music and entertainment. Production company Bay Stage Live will also be on site to put on a huge light display. “It’s definitely a unique event like no other in Polk County,” says Stephanie. Mermaids, beer, puppies, beer, light display, beer, food trucks, oh and beer – what more could you ask for? Leashed pets are welcome, and if you’d like to add to your family, The Humane Society will be there with animals available for adoption. Check out their Facebook page, Pints for Paws Lakeland Beer Fest 2019, for a chance to win one of their many giveaways leading up to the event! Pints for Paws Lakeland Beer Fest 2019 pintsforpawslakelandbeerfest.com FB: Pints for Paws Lakeland Beer Fest 2019 Tickets: centralfloridatix.com
33
WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Café Roti “America, a melting cauldron of passionate people of multiple nationalities; passionate about life, friendship, love, their national pride, about food, and in fact, always ready to thankfully enjoy all of God’s blessings.” This is the first line of The Roti Story that owner and physician Dr. Saqib Khan wrote when he started Lakeland’s Café Roti. Dr. Khan came to Lakeland 20 years ago to start his practice. In 2003, he started Café Roti right next to his clinic thinking that his staff and patients could eat there. With limited space and growing demand, the good doctor expanded. Now, the Indian-Pakistani restaurant has a beautiful spacious spot downtown right next The Federal Bar on Tennessee Ave where they pride themselves in giving patrons authentic gourmet cuisine at an affordable price.
Dining at Café Roti felt lavish and expensive, but the prices were surprisingly affordable. The most expensive menu option, The Maharaja Feast for Two is still a reasonably priced option for date night – a four-course meal including an appetizer, soup, entrée, and dessert, paired with a bottle of house wine or champagne.
The décor sets an inviting yet exotic tone with warm yellow walls complemented by plush burgundy cushions. On one side of the restaurant hangs commissioned pieces by a Pakistani artist depicting winter scenes of the Mongols coming to India, and on the other side, summer scenes by the same artist.
“My purpose is just to make simple food that anyone can cook. I have always in the last 13 years just tried to simplify it,“ said Dr. Khan. In fact, he is in the process of writing a book detailing how to run his restaurants from the proper way to carry a glass to all of their recipes.
When asked what inspired him to open Café Roti, Dr. Khan returned, “Everybody has somewhere inside them, a desire to open a restaurant,” adding, “Some go through with this venture, some don’t.”
“We have not opened a restaurant to run a restaurant,” he said. “We have opened it so these kids who work here and all these people can join hands and open a lot of restaurants across the country.”
Even the name is steeped in Indian culture. According to Dr. Khan, the word roti means bread. “The Indian continent predominantly lives on bread,” he said. “Roti, that’s the staple food because vegetables and meat are extremely expensive.”
“Publix started here, Red Lobster started here, we want to start here,” expressed Dr. Kahn.
The exuberant doctor and restaurateur spoke about the defining flavors of Indian-Pakistani cuisine saying, “If you look at the history of that continent, the main purpose, why even Columbus took the voyage to go find India was because of the Indian spices. China was known for its silk, but India was known for spices. It’s a civilization five, six thousand years old.”
havenmagazines.com
Spices like chili, saffron, black pepper, cardamom, and turmeric are among some of the complex flavors in the form of simplistic dishes Café Roti serves up. The chef prepared a feast of their most popular dishes for us to try. Butter chicken, their most popular menu item, was full of moist pieces of chicken in a creamy, delectable sauce. Tandoori lamb chops were among our favorites, but everything was so bright, and colorful, and delicious it was hard to choose the best from the Biryani and Riata to the lamb shank dopiaza, and of course a glass of pinot noir to accompany the meal.
34
“I think American people are the best kind of people who love food and they love life,” he said. “I travel a lot, and wherever I go in the world, say Turkey or Lebanon or France or Italy, and you go to any restaurant and you hear people laughing, you can bet your money on it that they are American.” He finished, “I think that is why I opened the restaurant.” Cafe Roti 116 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801 caferotifl.com
35
Full Bar
Book Your Christmas Gatherings in Our Private Dining Room! Call Early To Reserve
Gift Certificates Available!
All You Can Eat Live Music ay Saturd
Mon: Catfish Tues: Grouper or Frog Legs Wed: Shrimp Thurs: Snow Crab Leg Legs
Karao ke Friday
“Dinner is served” Chicken Olives, Radishes & Dessert
1010 N Scenic Hwy. • Babson Park, FL 33827
(863) 589-5887
Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch and Dinner
132 Ave. B. SW., Winter Haven Nutwoodwh.com • 863-229-7770
crookedbass.com
Our Food Speaks For Itself
Davenport 42605 US-27 863•354•6967
Winter Haven 7130 Cypress Gardens Blvd. 863•656•1972
Lakeland 4715 S. Florida Ave. 863•262•3000
FREE • Book Wilbur Hall for Holiday Parties • FREE Gift Cards Available Online & In Store $100 Gift Card Get $20 Card FREE
$200 Gift Card Get $45 Card FREE
$500 Gift Card Get $120 Card FREE
Visit OvationBistro.com for more info havenmagazines.com
36
Christmas Cookie Eggnog
• 4 ounces Baileys Irish Cream • 2 ounces Butterscotch Schnapps • 1 ounce Cointreau • 1/2 ounce Kahlua
1. Beat the egg yolks in a standard mixing bowl until light in color. Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated.
Eggnog: • 4 egg yolks • 1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon • 1 pint whole milk • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 teaspoon nutmeg • 4 egg whites
2. In a medium saucepan combine milk, cream, and nutmeg and bring to just a boil, stirring often. Remove from the heat and slowly temper the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks. Return everything back to the saucepan and cook until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F. 3. Stir in the Baileys, Schnapps, Cointreau and Kahlua. Pour mixture into a medium mixing bowl, and set in the refrigerator to chill. 4. In a new bowl using a hand mixer, beat egg whites until they form soft peaks. With the mixer running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. 5. Whisk the egg whites into the chilled mixture and enjoy! Eggnog: (Alton Brown Food Network) Cocktail: (Drizly)
37
WORDS Amy Sexson
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson & Sheriff Grady Judd
Shooting with the Sheriff “One day when I get old and pass away, I want my children and grandchildren and great grandchildren, if they take a moment to wonder what Granddad was really like, they can see what Granddad really loved through my photography. They might say Granddad was a sheriff at work and he was proud of it, but this is who Granddad was when he wasn’t a sheriff.” Sheriff Grady Judd is a prolific amateur nature photographer. He’s had a love of photography for a very long time and even had a few exhibitions in the past. What started as a hobby as a kid has grown into “an addiction” that brings him closer to nature and God. Sheriff Judd talked with me about beginning this hobby, “When I was very young, I enjoyed photography. It was back in the film days. I had a Nikon camera and lenses and I was struggling to self-teach myself how to photograph. I really enjoyed it, but along came college, marriage, children so I set it aside.” Fast forward to about 8 years ago, Sheriff Judd went for his annual physical exam. When his doctor asked him how he felt, he told him he felt just fine. “He asked me what my hobbies were. I said work. He asked me if I liked my job. I said yes. He asked if I wanted to do it a long time. I said yes, is something wrong with me?” The doctor told him there wasn’t now, but there would be if he didn’t get a hobby to distract him from his very stressful job. Photography was a perfect match for him. “Cameras are different now, they’re totally awesome.” Judd explained he switched to using a Canon and currently uses 3 different models. A Canon 7D, Canon 7D Mark II and most recently a Canon 5D Mark IV. “I don’t feel any more stressed or less stressed than I did 6 or 8 years ago but I loved my doctor’s advice because now I am doing what I absolutely love as a hobby.” “I’m a nature photographer and I do landscapes. I feel closest to God when I’m in the woods. When I’m on a lake, at the beach, you feel the power and the majesty and the majesticness of God’s wonderful world,” Sheriff Judd said while relaxing back in his chair. “Fishing bores me after a while. Hunting, I can take it or leave it. But hunting with a camera mesmerizes me. It does de-stress me, I feel myself calm down because you can’t focus on
havenmagazines.com
that perfect picture if you’re thinking about the office or work at the same time.” Sheriff Judd gets out as often as possible, and that’s one of the things he loves about it. You can stop and take a picture whenever you’re inspired. He says it’s a lesson in patience because you have to slow down and really look around. Sheriff Judd talked about what it’s like to spend an afternoon taking some shots after work. “Say I could have a whole session at the end of the day. It’s wintertime and the winter birds are here and I brought my camera. I would change out of my uniform into some jeans and tennis shoes and stop at Circle B to get me a couple hours of photography in before dark. I can feel me rushing everything when I first get there. And then as nature takes control, and the beauty takes control, I find myself calming down and getting in the moment. You have to be in the moment. You have to refocus and let the speed and pace of work go. And then you get in sync with nature, and maybe that’s even more fun that taking the photograph.” Judd fact: He loves taking photos in the winter because of all of the winter birds that come down. Sheriff Judd also likes to take photographs of the mountains, the coast, lighthouses and old broken down barns. “I like photographing old stuff that’s deteriorating and dilapidated and capturing yesteryear. I like photographing old court houses. The old architecture is interesting. I like to capture things that are disappearing.” he explained. “I also love to capture old churches. The steeples and the bells, the things you don’t see anymore on the new churches.” What does he do with all the photos? “We give them away, auction them off for charity and some of them I just keep. For the most part, I donate them to charity or I give them away. I do it to relax, to capture nature and to be closer to god. It works for me.” Sheriff Judd humbly said that he’s just “a good ol’ boy from Polk County that was blessed enough to go to college, have a great career, a great family and a great camera.” I asked the Sheriff where is his favorite place in Central Florida to take photos and he responded quickly. “Circle B is totally awesome. They have the most variety of things in close proximity in the wild, it’s Circle B hands down.” His dream places to shoot photos are Alaska and Iceland. He also said he never gets tired of the Rocky Mountains. After the holidays, he’s planning to
38
photograph where there’s snow. He’s never done that before so he’s reading up on it. Another Judd Fact: He doesn’t like cold weather. Final Judd Fact: He takes his camera whenever he goes hunting. He ends up shooting more with a camera than with a gun. The last time he went hunting, he had over 1500 shots of turkey, deer and wildlife on his camera and he only shot his gun 3 times. Sheriff Judd ended with this. “For those that don’t enjoy art of some kind, it not only gives you entertainment and enjoyment, but it gives you, really, a three dimensional perspective on life. You see life for what it is at work, and your normal routine, but then when you get into your art world, you see life as you want it to be. It gives you depth and perception and the ability to cleanse your mind of the everyday fast paced rhetoric and get into a zone of peace and tranquility. At least it does for me. We live an abnormal life, this is a supernatural life.”
39
WORDS Lauren Dickman
Take Heart Empowers Women in Kenya To many people living in Lakeland, Kenya may seem fairly far removed from the culture of our city. However, a store downtown is quickly changing that assumption. Take Heart, a fair trade shop located on Kentucky Avenue, is working to change the lives of women in Kenya. There, women face oppression on all levels; and with very few rights, success and autonomy are out of reach for the women and girls who find themselves widowed or orphaned. Human trafficking further extends the problem, as approximately 70% of the girls who age out of orphanages become trafficked.
Take Heart is now helping 30 students – girls and boys – get educations so that they are able to provide for themselves. Ryan stated that the decision to include boys in Take Heart’s mission came when she realized that helping boys who are prone to crime could influence them to view women as valuable individuals and treat them as such. Fair trade is another facet of Take Heart’s mission, as it ensures fair wages and good working environments. In a country where many working women are not paid what they are promised, this system provides much needed stability and assurance. Ryan first started bringing items back from her trips and selling them at the farmer’s market in 2014. This has continued since then, as she tries to make multiple trips annually, the next one being scheduled for January.
“The best way to get rid of something is to prevent it,” says the owner of Take Heart, Delta Ryan, discussing the topic of stopping human trafficking in Kenya. The veteran emergency room physician assistant of 20 years saw the conditions in which under-privileged Kenyan women live when she visited the country in 2012 on a medical trip. While there, she stayed in an orphanage for teen girls, all close in age to her own daughters at home, and formed bonds with them. After returning to the United States, she continued to check on the girls and heard that some were beginning to age out, prompting her to research ways to help. Take Heart officially became a nonprofit in 2014 after Delta resigned from her emergency room career to take on the organization full time. With her energy invested in the cause, she formed a three-fold mission: to prevent human trafficking, promote and expand fair trade, and provide widows with the training to help them access necessities.
After four years of setting up shop at the farmers market each and every Saturday, Delta opened the storefront at 248 North Kentucky Avenue in April of this year. There, customers can find many Kenyan items including jewelry, purses, dolls, scarves, and more. The store has also started carrying fair trade items from other countries, such as decorative word art made out of repurposed oil drums from Haiti. Customers also will find pottery, soap, and jewelry made by local artisans, serving as a way to give back to the Lakeland community. As for future plans, Ryan claims that she wants to start a school and a clinic in Kenya in order to further help those in need.
Ryan found that microfinance loans of $50 were the best way to help widows. She started with one widow growing tomatoes, allowing her to select the business she wanted to start. The organization now has 25 women on interestfree loans, each running a business of their choice and providing for their children. The women are also able to pay for their children’s educations, something that many Kenyan girls miss out on due to lack of funds and their menstrual cycles, among other factors.
If you would like to help, Take Heart is always looking for college students to intern or volunteer, and donations can also be made online at their website takeheartafrica.org. For additional information, contact delta@takeheartafrica.org. Take Heart 248 N Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, Florida (863) 698-7430
Elizabeth was one of those girls. She had her first child at 12 years old and, as a result, was no longer able to attend school. In 2014, Take Heart helped her by getting her back to school, and at age 16 she began learning a trade. This month she will be graduating with a degree in hairstyling.
havenmagazines.com
40
41
WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
ElderPoint Ministries A marketplace to end food insecurity You can’t judge a book by its cover, and you can’t judge someone’s level of food security by looking at them either. Food insecurity is a self-identified problem plaguing Polk County, that one organization set out years ago to end, in a rather creative way – by empowering the foodinsecure to solve it themselves. In a bright community space at Lakeview Tower in Winter Haven, seniors browsed an assortment of colorful, fresh fruits and veggies in wicker baskets placed invitingly around the room. ElderPoint Executive Director, Jane Hammond looked on while describing the little talked about issue of food insecurity within the county. A biochemist turned software developer for the biotech industry may seem like an unlikely candidate for running a nonprofit focused on assisting the elderly, but Jane has always had the cause in her heart. “I’ve always had a passion for seniors and trying to improve the quality of life for seniors whether that’s just one on one in my neighborhood or trying to turn it into something bigger,” she said. When her husband’s work relocated the family to Polk County, Jane found herself without opportunities in her industry. She took some time to settle her family. Of all things, a lawn mower became the catalyst for her service to the elderly. “A friend of mine gave me a lawnmower, and if you’ve ever gotten the right thing at the right time, that little gesture of something, that solved a problem for you.” She wanted to take the lawn mower and turn it into something bigger, so she set out to find an organization that could help connect her to seniors in need of having their lawns mowed. She soon came across Faith in Action of Central Lakeland. There, she volunteered using her ability in software to develop a program matching seniors’ needs to volunteer skills. At the time, the Executive Director decided to move on and the organization was at a crossroads. With only enough money to continue for six months, Jane stepped up to the task. Using her systematic and process design and flow-driven skills, she built it into what it is today. “I’m really good at taking something and streamlining it and making it really efficient – it’s what I did through code, now I do it with bananas,” she laughed. Here they are, now as ElderPoint, twelve years later with havenmagazines.com
17 locations for their markets and kiosks. Jane explained, “The purpose of our food program is to deal with food insecurity.” According to the USDA, food insecurity is defined as when the food intake of household members is reduced and their normal eating patterns are disrupted because the household lacks money and other resources for food. Transportation being a large concern.
The idea was to have markets around the county where seniors could buy fresh fruits and produce at an affordable price and make it accessible to them.
“We’re overcoming access because we’re right here,” she said looking around the Lakeview Tower community room.
They buy the produce fresh from the Plant City Market and also have a partnership with Farmer Jack. “Doing that, we’re able to be much more culturally relevant in every single market that we go into because we like to take requests everywhere we go.”
Though food insecurity is a problem in much of the country, it is magnified in Polk County. According to Jane, “The Lakeland/ Winter Haven area is the second most food insecure in the nation.” Data on FeedingAmerica. org notes that there are 95,800 food insecure people in Polk County. Jane admits that statistic takes many people off guard considering, “it just seems counterintuitive that a metropolitan area that is rated so high in philanthropic endeavors and certainly a focus on food, why are we then the second most food insecure?” She explained that seniors have particular issues for why they can’t access appropriate food. Do they have transportation to the grocery store? If so, can they carry the bags back for whatever quantity they want to purchase? Do they have to buy in too large of a quantity, risking their limited resources on something that may go bad? Are they limited to the number of bags they can bring? “What food insecurity is really about, in our area, we don’t have a lack of food per se, we have a lack of infrastructure to adequately distribute the food and make it available,” she said. “There are little hidden pieces to basically how a senior can survive that subtly impact their ability to procure food and maintain healthy food.” For many years, ElderPoint did a free food bank concept, serving a staggering 103,383 people in 2014. But Jane saw that this wasn’t sustainable. “By numbers, it served a lot of people, but we realized we weren’t transforming lives. We weren’t moving anyone out of the food line.” They set out to redesign it into something that would, “Empower people to not be dependent on others for their food, but rather find their own way out and find their own food independence.” 42
“If you look at our prices, it’s all ridiculously affordable because our goal is: We buy it all at wholesale, but we price it to cover only the cost of the produce itself and a little bit of gas to get it around.”
As the program took off, ElderPoint realized they could only do the markets so many times a week though the demand for them was through the roof. To solve this issue they created kiosk markets which are a smaller format of their markets and exist in places where the elderly are likely to congregate such as a senior center. In addition to their 17 locations, ElderPoint is looking to bring on 12 new kiosks in the first part of next year. The next step for the nonprofit is procuring refrigerated units with glass fronts to put in their kiosk locations. This will keep the produce fresher for longer, allowing them to offer it for more days. They’ve even been in talks with professors at Polytech about having the students design something for them. “We have a weird little dream,” she began, “but you always have to plant these seeds because you never know where it will go.” Their “weird little dream” is an old-school carousel style vending machine that could be put in a common area for everyone to use such as the library downtown. They would like to make the vending machine accessible by coin or token and available not only to seniors but moms looking for a quick healthy snack for their kids, the homeless, or anyone else. “We’re all coming to the table together to try to take out the stigma of food insecurity and empower people to eat healthier.” Learn more about what ElderPoint does for the community and how you can help at www.elderpoint.org
43
BIGGER & BETTER THAN EVER!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 18TH, 2018 7PM - 10PM LAKE MIRROR PROMENADE
100 DIFFERENT BEERS TO SAMPLE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INTERACTIVE BEER STATIONS
FOOD TRUCKS & MORE
PURCHASE TICKETS AT: TICKET SALE PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE HUMANE SOCIETY of POLK COUNTY
LEASHED PETS WELCOME!
DECEMBER CALENDAR 2018 1–9 SUNSET & SYMPHONY HOLIDAY MUSIC CONCERTS When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Enjoy a full day of music and holiday festivities culminating in the evening finale performance by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. 10am-12pm Polkweed Muzique performs at the Terrace, 11am Carillon Concert, 12pm-2pm AcousticDose performs at Pinewood Estate Frog Fountain Courtyard, 1pm & 3pm Carillon Concert, 4pm-5:45pm Greye and 6pm Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Ticket includes Garden admission for the day and concert ticket (Pinewood admission not included). (863) 734-1222 BIRD CLUB HIKE When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 8 a.m. Where: Circle B Bar Reserve 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland. Meet at parking lot. Come and join Lake Region Audubon Bird Club for a guided hike to learn about the birds of Circle B Bar Reserve. Please bring binoculars, water, sunscreen, and a snack.Contact: blsnow11@tampabay.rr.com or 863-7123878 for more details. DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland. www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Stretching more than three blocks down North Kentucky Ave, the Downtown Farmers Curb Market brings 70-plus vendors to the heart of Downtown Lakeland every Saturday. Our vendors offer fresh produce, a wide variety of plants, locally handcrafted items, and delicious ready-to-eat food. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS When: Dec. 01, 18 - Jan. 06, 19| 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Come “Home for the Holidays” and experience Pinewood Estate completely transformed into a holiday showplace and reflecting the grandeur of the 1940s. Combo admission to the Gardens and Pinewood Estate Holiday Home Tour $24 adult, $12 (child ages 5-12). (863) 734-1222. TAI CHI IN THE GARDENS When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 8:30-9:30 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi surrounded in the serenity of the Gardens. Individuals of all ages and physical conditions can use the fluid movements to help release tension, increase balance and relax. $10 members/$17 non-member. (863) 734-1222 WINTER WONDERLAND When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Bartow Ford, 2800 US-98, Bartow. Bartow Ford is proud to host and be the title sponsor for the 4th annual Winter Wonderland event - a free, familyoriented festival for our community. In partnership with 97 Country WPCV, this event features our annual F150 Holiday Extravaganza truck giveaway. 60 Tons of real snow with supervised snow slides & snow play areas, snow flurries, free breakfast with Santa. Vendors on site selling food. Polar
and behave. This exhibition is on loan from the Smithsonian American Art Museum. https://polkmuseumofart.org/ brooks (863) 688-7743
Express Trains, bounce houses, face painting, free photos with Santa And more! POLK COUNTY OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Florida Southern College 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland www.afsp.org/Lakeland Taking place in hundreds of cities each fall, these walks raise awareness for an important cause as they raise the resources we need to carry out our mission. Be sure to register online at www.afsp.org/LakelandHosted by American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Central Florida Chapter.
CHAGALL: STORIES INTO DREAMS When: Dec. 01, 2018 - Jan. 06, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org This extraordinary show of Marc Chagall’s work will be the only one of its kind in Florida and the only one in the country that pairs his Fables of La Fontaine etchings (1952) with his Story of Exodus lithographs (1966). (863) 688-7743. Closed December 24, 25, and 31 and January 1.
THE FANCY FLEA HOLIDAY HOEDOWN When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Downtown Bartow. This show will feature Fancy Flea’s best vendors selling vintage furniture, decor, decorations, jewelry, gifts and more.
CONVERSING WITH REALITY When: Dec. 01, 2018 - Jan. 13, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org Conversing with Reality celebrates the most recent paintings of contemporary visual artist John Jacopelle. Devoid of preconceived ideas and direction, Jacopelle’s work takes a stream-of-consciousness approach, where the “act of doing” or process is equally important to the finished piece. Rendered in ambiguity yet painted with clear definitiveness, organic shapes, rhythmic lines, and glyphic marks develop as the artist works upon his paintings, leaving each piece open to the viewers’ own interpretation. (863) 688-7743 Closed Sunday, Monday and major holidays including December 24, 25, and 31 and January 1.
CRAFT FAIR When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Providence Clubhouse 1512 Clubhouse Blvd., Davenport. Craft Fair is open to everyone and is going to be filled with local craftsmen and direct sales vendors. People wanting to come and view all of the wonderful and varied crafts only have to let the gate attendant know that they are coming to the Craft Fair and will be let in. 30TH ANNUAL CAROLS IN THE PARK When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Where: S. Central Park, downtown Winter Haven. www.mainstreetwh.com/event/30th-annual-carols-in-thepark/ Main Street Winter Haven is thrilled to announce our 30th Annual Carols in the Park presented by Citizens Bank and Trust! For thirty years, artisans, specialty food vendors, and local choral groups have gathered in Downtown Winter Haven’s Central Park to kick off the holiday season. This event has become a tradition for multiple generations, with a special Candy Cane Corner for children of all ages! Kids will enjoy FREE pictures with Santa Claus, a take-home holiday craft, and a bounce house..among other fun activities! If you have any questions, please give us a call at 863.295.9422, or email us at carolsintheparkwh@gmail.com.
OAK HILL CEMETERY TOUR When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 11 a.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow. www.polk-county.net/events The tour starts at the History Center with a short walk of approximately one mile to include historic landmarks along the route to the cemetery. The cemetery ground is uneven and visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear. The cemetery tour is offered at 11 a.m. the first Saturday of every month, November through April. (863) 534-6000 ACCESS ART: SPECIAL NEEDS When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. Participants will create and discuss art with specially trained educator, Tinia Clark. Clark is the Executive Director of Sidestreet Art Beat, Inc., an organization whose mission is to provide awareness for the healing power of the arts through engagement.This program invites individuals with special needs and varying exceptionalities to meet once a month at Polk Museum of Art to engage in viewing and discussing artwork that is exhibited. The program is designed to create social engagement and encourage creativity and self expression. Registration preferred but not required.For registration or questions, please contact Tinia Clark at 863224-8557 or email at sidestreetartbeat@gmail.com.
MAKE & TAKE WORKSHOP: POLLINATOR HOUSE & HOLIDAY CRAFT When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: UF/IFAS Extension 1702 S Highway, Bartow. Participants will make their own pollinator house and holiday craft to take home. Pre-registration is required. Come dressed for crafting. Cost is $25.00 payable online by credit card only. Meet at the potting shed at the rear of the extension building property. Drive onto the property from Clower St E (side street on north side of building) and enter through the gates behind the open barn. Workshop provided by UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Master Gardeners.If you have any questions, please contact us at j.schelb@ufl.edu or 863-519-1041. See you there!For more information on our programs visit http://polkgardening.com.
CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Where: Inside Out Yoga 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven. www.ioyogastudio.com/ Join Cosmic Sound Healer, Buffy La Roux as she facilitates a high vibratory journey of Sound through time and space. During this deeply meditative and transformative experience, Buffy guides us inward through a sound bath of deeply shifting vocal toning, singing, frequencies and quartz crystal singing bowls. Each Crystal Sound Bath is a unique symphony and a dance of the collective energies present for the Well Being of All and the Amplification of Love. $20
SUCCULENT HOLIDAY WREATH WORKSHOP When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Create your own succulent wreath for the holidays. All supplies included. $50 members/$60 non-members. Register in advance. (863) 734-1222 HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW “HOLIDAY BIRDING TRADITIONS” When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Birds are a part of many international holiday traditions; discover how to include feathered friends in your celebrations. Make a suet & seed bird feeder ornament at Doodlebug Art Place. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
FESTIVAL DEL AGUINALDO When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 12:30-5 p.m. Where: Hunt Park 2020 Duff Rd., Lakeland. Music, children’s activities and more! Presented by PR Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Bandaid 4 Puerto Rico fundraiser. For more info call (863) 838-2084 SUCCULENT HOLIDAY WREATH WORKSHOP When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Create your own succulent wreath for the holidays. All supplies included. $50 members/$60 non-members. Register online (863) 734-1222
THE ART OF ROMAINE BROOKS When: Dec. 01 - 09, 2018 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org/brooks A collection of works from this American expatriate artist known for her androgynous appearance and unique artistic voice that challenged conventions of how women should look
CHRISTMAS AT THE RAMON When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 2 p.m. Where: Ramon Theater 15 E Wall Street, Frostproof. www.ramontheater.com Enjoy an old-fashioned community celebration to get you in the Christmas spirit. Donations for the Frostproof Care Center. Please bring Cash, New Toys and Non-Perishable Food Items to donate. (863) 635-7222 TRI BRAIN YOGA WORKSHOP When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 2-5 p.m. Where: Inside Out Yoga 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven. www.ioyogastudio.com Science Meets Yoga with a blending of neuroscience and ancient wisdom of yoga.This workshop of discovery offers an innovative blend of recent neuroscience discoveries and the ancient wisdom of yoga. Elizabeth Markie makes the science simple to understand and easy to integrate into your daily life. A ninety minute yoga flow, including live music/sound healing by Alexis Holland, to demonstrate the role of yoga as a tool to integrate and align the three brains.Individuals and yoga instructors alike will benefit from expanding their practice to include this powerful knowledge. GLITTER, GLISTEN & SNOW When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Haines City Parks & Rec 555 Ledwith Ave, Haines City. Count down with us as we light up thousands of lights and our 31ft Christmas tree at Lake Eva Park. There will be snow slides, arts & crafts vendors, local children’s entertainment, food vendors & more! Guests of honor include: Mr. & Mrs. Claus! HOLIDAY ANTIQUE MARKET When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Downtown Bartow. Find unique gifts among the antiques, collectibles and vintage items for sale during Main Street Bartow’s evening Holiday Antique Market on Saturday, Dec. 1, from 6-8 p.m. Shoppers can also enjoy food, entertainment and carolers. CHRISTMAS LANE When: Dec. 01 - 24, 2018 Where: Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds 2508 W. Oak Ave, Plant City. www.ChristmasLane.com Christmas Lane is a Christmas wonderland housed in the Charlie Grimes Ag Building at Plant City’s Florida Strawberry Festival. We are celebrating our 34th year! We will be open each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6-10p. The event is wheelchair accessible (no chairs are available for rental). Parking is free! Ticket pricing:$5 plus tax for ages 13 and up $3 plus tax for ages 4-12 Free for ages 3 and under. UGLY SWEATER BAR CRAWL When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland. emergelakeland.wildapricot.org Come be festive downtown and kick off the month of December with us! We will be starting at Federal Bar Lakeland where you will check in, receive your t-shirt, get your (4) tokens and then the fun will begin! Revival is the first stop, followed by Frescos and then Mojo’s. You will end with appetizers and fun on the New Outdoor Patio at Federal Bar! This event is open to the public and is presented by EMERGE Lakeland. FLORIDA TROPICS VS ST. LOUIS AMBUSH *HOME OPENER When: Dec. 01, 2018 | 7:05 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.fltropics.com Member of the Major Arena Soccer League NUNCRACKERS: THE MUSICAL When: Dec. 01 - 16, 2018 Where: Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven. www.theatrewinterhaven.com Featuring all new songs including Twelve Days Prior to Christmas, Santa Ain’t Comin’ to Our House, We Three Kings of Orient Are Us and It’s Better to Give than to Receive, this show is filled with typical NUNSENSE humor, some of your favorite carols, and a “Secret Santa” audience participation. It’s the perfect way to insure that your holiday season is merry and bright! (863) 294-SHOW (7469)
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 45
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS When: Dec. 02, 2018 - Jan. 06, 2019 Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Come “Home for the Holidays” and experience Pinewood Estate completely transformed into a holiday showplace and reflecting the grandeur of the 1940s. Combo admission to the Gardens and Pinewood Estate Holiday Home Tour $24 adult, $12 (child ages 5-12). (863) 734-1222. RESTORATIVE YOGA When: Dec. 02, 2018 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Restorative Yoga provides students the opportunity to “fully rest” while opening the body through a variety of supported poses, meditation and breathwork that encourage deep relaxation. $30 members/$37 non-members. CHRISTMAS BRUNCH WITH DAN SIGNOR When: Dec. 02, 2018 | 10 a.m. Where: Federal Bar Lakeland 124 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland. Be our guest and enjoy our Bottomless Mimosas brunch beginning at 10am with Dan Signor starting at 11:30am! Come early to get a good seat and enjoy our new brunch and shareables menu! Football games start at 1pm on the big screens too! Bottomless mimosas will run 10am-noon and 3-5pm, $15 per person TONI BROWN & ED MUNSON When: Dec. 02, 2018 | 2-5 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. Acoustic Cosmic American Roots Music.Blues, Classic Rock, Country, and more! Toni Brown’s Lunar Mountaineers is an evolving musical project. This show will feature, as always, Ed Munson on guitar. Blues, Folk, Classic Rock & More! www. tonibrownmusic.com THE ULTIMATE NATIVITY STORY When: Dec. 02, 2018 | 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. Where: Polk Theatre 139 S Florida Avenue, Lakeland. www.udclakeland.com Celebrate the spirit of the season with a modern musical theater & dance adaptation of the greatest story ever told. (863) 644-5275 SEU: AN AFTERNOON MELODY CONCERT When: Dec. 02, 2018 | 2-3 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org Surrounded by the beautiful ambiance of the Polk Museum of Art, faculty-selected music majors from Southeastern University’s College of Arts & Media perform solo and chamber works.Free Admission COUCH TO 5K TRAINING When: Dec. 03, 2018 | 8 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 8am. Running training designed to motivate someone “out of shape” to prepare for a 5K race. By the last meeting, you will be ready to run at the Carillon Classic 5K on February 23, 2019. Training sessions free with general admission or membership; separate charge applies for Carillon Classic 5K. (863) 734-1222 28TH ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF SCRAMBLE PRESENTED BY SPHERION When: Dec. 03, 2018 | 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Grasslands Golf & Country Club 1600 Grasslands Blvd., Lakeland. business.lakelandchamber.com The Lakeland Chamber Scramble will offer Chamber members time to re-connect, network and entertain clients during that time of year when celebrations are important and the weather is spectacular! (863) 688-8551 Ext. 223 or 224 CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING When: Dec. 03, 2018 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Market Square 110 West Bay St., Davenport.
havenmagazines.com
THE KING AND I When: Dec. 03, 2018 | 7:30-9:30 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.rpfundingcenter.com One of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s finest works, THE KING AND I boasts a score that features such beloved classics as “Getting To Know You,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Hello Young Lovers,” “Shall We Dance” and “Something Wonderful.”Set in 1860’s Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British school teacher. (863) 834-8111 Center Stage Buffet available for additional charge.
GOOD SHEPHERD HOSPICE: NOD TO NONPROFITS TOUR SERIES When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 8-9 a.m. Where: Lakeland Hospice House 3450 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland. http://business.lakelandchamber.com (863) 688-8551, Ext. 230 Join us to learn more about Good Shepherd Hospice Lakeland Hospice House. Please RSVP MAIN STREET BARTOW’S FARMERS AND COMMUNITY MARKET When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Fort Blount Park W Davidson St., Bartow. More than fruit and vegetables! You may find handcrafted items, popcorn, jewelry, fresh baked goods, homemade jams, and food trucks. Check the Facebook page to see what’s new each week. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Fort Blount Park, corner of Main and Broadway.
MOBILE OFFICE HOURS — THE OFFICE OF SENATOR MARCO RUBIO When: Dec. 04, 2018 | 12-4 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce 340 W Central Ave, Lake Wales. Meet your local staff and learn about the services Senator Rubio’s Office can offer his constituents.For more information, call the Gulf Coast Regional Office at(813) 853 -1099 or email jonathan_torres@rubio.senate.gov
GOPHER TORTOISES AND PLANT CONSERVATION When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Learn more about a current project by the Rare Plant Conservation Program at Bok Tower Gardens investigating whether the digestion of gopher tortoises affects seed germination of the endangered plant Ziziphus celata. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
CAMEOS MEMOIRS WRITING CLASS When: Dec. 04, 2018 | 2-4 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven. www.mywinterhaven.com Write your own stories! Class meets the first Tuesday of each month. For more information, contact Beverly Lerner at (863) 294-6042 or bevlerner@aol.com
SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY VIRTUAL INFO SESSION When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 12 p.m. & 6 p.m. Where: Saint Leo University Lakeland Education Center 315 Granada St., Lakeland. Those interested in finding out more about Saint Leo, what degrees are offered, courses, and more are invited. Beginning in the Spring 1 Semester, more than 50 undergraduate programs and a variety of graduate programs will be offered by Saint Leo University-Lakeland.The Lakeland Education Center is at 315 Granada St., Lakeland, FL 33805. The center serves students in Lakeland, Winter Haven, Haines City, and other parts of Polk County as well as Plant City in Hillsborough County. Registration is underway for Spring 1 Semester, which begins Jan. 7, 2019. Spring 2 Semester begins March 4, 2019.Prospective students and those interesting in more information can RSVP at lakeland@ saintleo.edu call or (863) 337-4900.
YOGA DANCE When: Dec. 04, 2018 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. http://boktowergardens.org Experience a unique approach to movement, combining the time-honored traditions of yoga, user-friendly dance, meditation in motion, breath and the energy centers of the body. Class is appropriate for all levels of fitness and physical ability. $15 members/$22 non-member. Participants should bring a yoga mat and bottled water. Participants should wear comfortable aerobic shoes or non-slip socks. (863) 734-1222 LECTURE SERIES, FLORIDA: A CRASH COURSE When: Dec. 04, 2018 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven. www.mywinterhaven.com Join us for our 5th annual lecture series! This year’s theme, Florida: A Crash Course, features scholars from across the state and beyond speaking on relevant topics that define Florida.Join us for the kickoff event, featuring award-winning author and journalist, Craig Pittman presenting, Oh, Florida! How America’s Weirdest State Influences the Rest of the Country. In his presentation based on his award-winning book of the same name. Register online. (863) 291-5880
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOON WITH RON BETTS When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. http://boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Free with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 BIG BROTHER BIG SISTER TRAINING AND ORIENTATION When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Women’s Resource Center 165 Ave A NW, Winter Haven. bbbstampabay.org/be-a-big/ Join us as a defender of potential by becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister and together, we can change the world. All it takes is 4-8 hours a month, depending on the program, with a focus on being consistent and spending one-to-one quality time with your Little. Let’s clear a path to a child’s biggest possible future. The first step is to attend a Big Orientation & Training session where you’ll learn about our programs, commitments, expectations and our kids.
THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS When: Dec. 04, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.rpfundingcenter.com The Harlem Globetrotters are celebrating 92 iconic years of basketball artistry, side-splitting comedy and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that continues to thrill fans of all ages. The Globetrotters are amazing basketball entertainers and some of the greatest athletes on the planet, and the live show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment. (863) 834-8111 THE FLORIDA PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA: CHRISTMAS PRESENCE When: Dec. 04, 2018 | 7:30-9:30 p.m. Where: College Heights Methodist Church 942 South Blvd., Lakeland. floridaphilharmonia.org/ The concert is FREE and open to the public; parking is also free. Musical selections will include favorites like Sleigh Ride, A Mad Russian’s Christmas (a Trans-Siberian piece), Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, and that well-known familiar Leroy Anderson favorite, A Christmas Festival, along with “The Phil’s” oh-so-popular sing along. Back by popular demand is the very special Florida Southern College “Mocappello” group — and Santa! (863) 944-0473
AN EVENING OF HOPE AND HEALING When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Victory Church 1401 Griffin Rd, Lakeland. Dr. Alan Wolfelt is a respected grief counselor, educator, and author. He founded the Center for Loss & Life Transition more than 25 years ago to offer education and support to grieving people, as well as caregivers and bereavement counselors. The program is free and open to all. Registration is requested online at gentry-morrison.com or by calling (863) 688-7679. WRITERS @ LPL When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 6-8:30 p.m. Where: Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr., Lakeland. Hosted by Lakeland Public Library. Writers @ LPL meets 46
the first Wednesday each month in the Meeting Room. Writers will now have two sessions in one evening. First Steps for New Writers (6 — 7pm) This first session will be geared towards new writers and will address topics for beginning writers.The Next Level is for Intermediate Writers (7 — 8:50pm).The second session will focus on topics and interests for intermediate writers. (863) 834-4276 SKULLYS BARBER SALON AT SWAN BREWING When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 6:40-9:40 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. Mobile hair salon will be open at Swan Brewing every Wednesday. MERRY & BRIGHT-EVENING PAINTING CLASS When: Dec. 05, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: Art Centric Studio 1035 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. www.artcentricstudio.com Your instructor will walk you through the instructions step by step on a 16’’x20’’ canvas! Please arrive 15-20 mins prior to class to find your seat and prepare your paint colors. $35 for one seat, $50 for Date Night (Two Seats) For just $50, you receive two seats at the studio’s $35 adult evening classes (a $70 value!) You can split the design onto two different canvas and each paint a side! Then hang the paintings next to each other when you get home! Come try out a fun date night! Register online. GARDENING WORKSHOP: ATTRACTING WILDLIFE When: Dec. 06, 2018 | 10 a.m. Where: Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve 945 Mackay Blvd, Lake Alfred. Free First Thursday Gardening Workshop at 10:00am. It is titled “Attracting Wildlife”, by Master Gardener Sue Grinath. (863) 291-5272 ALZHEIMER’S LUNCH & SUPPORT GROUP When: Dec. 06, 2018 | 1 p.m. Where: Hawthorne Inn of Lakeland 6150 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland. hawthorneinnoflakeland.com/ Support group & lite lunch. If you are a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimer’s, day care will be provided while you attend the group event. (863) 644-6414 SHOP AT BOK HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE When: Dec. 06, 2018 | 4-7 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Enjoy holiday shopping, refreshments and a special trunk show. Free admission after 4pm. (863) 734-1222 AFTER HOURS AT THE MUSEUM When: Dec. 06, 2018 | 5-8 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org The Polk Museum of Art will be open until 8 p.m. the first Thursday of every month and will host a Curator Tour at 6 p.m. Join Dr. Alex RIch, Curator & Director of Galleries and Exhibitions, for an in-depth tour of the Museum galleries, providing art-historical and curatorial insight about one of our current exhibitions. eCompI.io MONTHLY HACKER CONTEST When: Dec. 06, 2018 | 5 p.m. Where: Catapult Lakeland 331 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. This event is FREE to attend and/or participate. This contest will officially start at 5:30 but please get here at least a half an hour early. Even if you are not a developer, you can still participate or come and watch. All participants will be given the same a publicly available, open API. You will have 1 hour and 30 minutes to build an application. This can be any type of application (mobile, website, web app, ect.), written in any language, utilizing any platform and integrating any additional API’s you wish. The winner will be decided by a blind vote of all participants and attendees. Please RSVP. We will only be allowing 15 contestants to compete. http:// meetu.ps/e/G2PTr/tZwWs/d LAKELAND CHRISTMAS PARADE When: Dec. 06, 2018 | 7-9:30 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland. The 38th Annual Lakeland Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland FL will be held on Thursday, December 6th, 2018 at 7:00 pm and we hope that you’ll join us for A Storybook Christmas! More info at lakelandgov.net/christmasparade.
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 48 -
LOCAL TICKETS LOCAL EVENTS LOCALLY LOCAL
Symphony Guild of Winter Haven’s Holiday Concert Date: Dec 8
The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical Dates: Dec 7-16
Daniel Joiner Trio: Tribute to Vince Guaraldi Date: Dec 14
RIGHT HERE
RIGHT NOW rs. erviso p u S s and taller s n I ced erien p x E Hiring
www.eliteofficelogistics.com | eolgroup@aol.com
47
FRIDAY FORUM: NOD TO NONPROFITS, FEATURING JOHN RIVERS When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 7-9 a.m. Where: Hollis Cancer Center Campisi Family Auditorium 3525 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland. business.lakelandchamber.com We are excited to announce the guest speaker is John Rivers, Founder & CEO of 4R Restaurant Group. Seating is limited, so be sure to make your reservations now! Hear John’s inspirational journey in his own words that led to the establishment of 4 Rivers Smokehouse, which began with the launch of the “Barbecue Ministry” in 2004 when John hosted a cookout fundraiser to support a local family whose young daughter was battling cancer. At the conclusion of the program, the 12 selected nonprofits for the 2019 Nod to Nonprofits Tour Series will be announced.Special thanks to our event sponsor, United Way of Central Florida! $15 Members | $30 Non-Members Coffee and pastries included. Contact Information: Sarah Breed (863) 688-8551, Ext. 230
dinner and shopping specials. Pinewood Estate will be open that evening allowing members the VIP opportunity to visit the Holiday Home Tour at night (separate fee applies). Members are welcome to bring as many guests as permitted by their membership level. This opportunity is limited to 200 members per hour and tickets must be purchased in advance. Members may begin their visit at any time during their designated time slot. (863) 734-1222
FREE FRIDAY FAMILY YOGA When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 4 p.m. Where: Explorations V Children’s Museum 109 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland. explorationsv.com/ Join us the First Friday of each month for a one-hour family yoga class! Bond with your little one through movement, music, and meditation as we flow through a fun-packed session of poses, games and more! Practice mindfulness and increase flexibility! Boost focus with mediation and mandala coloring! Suitable for toddlers and their caregivers!
LAKELAND MAGIC VS GRAND RAPIDS DRIVE When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. lakeland.gleague.nba.com/ NBA G League
FRAMILY ORNAMENT PAINT NIGHT When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 4 p.m. Where: Art Centric Studio 1035 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. www.artcentricstudio.com Come create with your entire family! This year we’re offering a FRamily Maker’s Night where everyone can come and create their own ornament! The studio will provide all the needed supplies to create your ornament this year including galvanized metal ornaments (w/ jute cord), paint, markers, and even pom-poms! You will need to pre-register AND pick your time! We want to be sure everyone has a space at our tables. MAKE IT MAGICAL When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 5 p.m. Where: Downtown Lake Wales, Stuart Ave. lwmainstreet.com/make-it-magical/ Lake Wales Main Street is hosting the 7th Annual Make It Magical event. This year’s theme will be Centennial Christmas at the Market Place focusing on our community heritage and time spent together with friends, family and neighbors celebrating the most wonderful time of the year! Expect a crowd! Main Street is excited to offer our guests unparalleled shopping with local artisans, gift wrapping, long-awaited visits with Santa, cookie decorating with Mrs. Clause, artistic crafts for the children, festive holiday music, delicious food and drink, beautifully decorated trees, creative photo opportunities, and SNOW! Guests will have a map that will list all the vendors, activities and descriptions. FIRST FRIDAY: HOMETOWN HOLIDAY, SPONSORED BY BURNETTI, P.A. When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland. downtownlkld.com/2018/09/december-7th-first-fridayhometown-holiday-sponsored-by-burnetti-p-a/ The theme is Hometown Holiday, sponsored by Burnetti, P.A.! Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy free activities, games, and live music in Munn Park.Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Don’t miss the Makers Market on North Kentucky Avenue and the Classy Car Show on Tennessee Avenue.First Friday is a family-friendly event held in the streets of Downtown Lakeland between Lemon Street and Oak Street along Kentucky and Tennessee Avenues. The event features a Classy Car Show on Tennessee Ave and a Makers Market on North Kentucky Ave. Streets are closed to vehicles, so come prepared to walk about! Check out the Third Rail Second Line Band on North Kentucky Avenue near Oak Street! The band encourages spectator participation, so bring the kiddos with you. MEMBERS ONLY MERRY MINGLE MEMBER NIGHT When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Members will experience an enchanted holiday evening in the Gardens with live music, a holiday carillon concert and havenmagazines.com
48
HAVENDALE CHRISTMAS PARADE When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven. The City of Winter Haven in conjunction with the City of Auburndale is pleased to bring you the Havendale Christmas Parade! This annual parade will officially start at 7:00 pm from Spring Lake Square and work its way up Havendale Blvd. to Wells Fargo in Auburndale. The streets will still close at 6:00 PM, parking will be limited.In the event of rain the event will not be rescheduled however there may be a time delay.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT: PROPHECY AND PROMISE When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 7:30 p.m. Where: Bush Chapel Southeastern University 1000 Longfellow Blvd, Lakeland. cam.seu.edu/event/seuchristmas/2018-12-07/ Join the Southeastern University instrumental ensembles and choirs for our annual musical celebration of Christ’s birth. This concert focuses on a theme of prophecy and promise, featuring music from diverse styles and interesting perspectives, as the music presented by our talented young artists and spirit-filled conductors draws you toward the manger during this joyful Christmas season! General Admission $5 / Students $3 FOREVER PLAID, PLAID TIDINGS When: Dec. 07 - 16, 2018 Where: Lakeland Community Theatre 121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland. www.lakelandcommunitytheatre.com/ The boys are back in this hilarious Christmas musical featuring everyone’s favorite holiday music and loveable quartet. This truly “heaven-sent” holiday treat will lift audiences’ spirits and fill them with nostalgia for a bygone era of classic music sung in perfect harmony. Various showtimes. (863) 603-PLAY (7529) SWAN CITY IMPROV When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 7:30-10 p.m. Where: LkldTV Studio B 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland. www.lkldlive.com Deck the halls with fun and laughter. Swan City Improv are back with their First Friday Double Bill of hilarity. 2 shows, one night. THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK CHRISTMAS MUSICAL When: Dec. 07 - 16, 2018 Where: TheatreWorks Florida 8 W Palmetto Street, Davenport. theatreworksfl.org For anyone that experienced last season’s outrageous sell-out of The Great American Trailer Park Musical, you already know that this holiday sequel is about to “wreck-the-halls” with some “ho-ho-hos” and Keg Nog! DEEP HOUSE FIRST FRIDAY DJ JENKS BIRTHDAY SET When: Dec. 07, 2018 | 9 p.m. Where: Federal Bar Lakeland 124 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland. Come out and support local artists at Lakeland’s only House Night!! JINGLE BELL CLASSIC When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 7 a.m. Where: Central Park 4th St. NW, Winter Haven. http://fitniche.com 10K starts at 7am, 5K starts at 8:30am and the 1-mile Dog Job begins at 9:30am. All entrants will receive a T shirt. Bandanas will be given to dog participants. Benefits the children’s department of the WH Public Library, dedicated to teaching children the life-long benefits of reading. (863) 292-0540
LAKE WALES FARMERS MARKET When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Market Place 20 N Market Place, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com Fresh baked goods, produce, crafts & more. DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland. www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Stretching more than three blocks down North Kentucky Ave, the Downtown Farmers Curb Market brings 70-plus vendors to the heart of Downtown Lakeland every Saturday. Our vendors offer fresh produce, a wide variety of plants, locally handcrafted items, and delicious ready-to-eat food. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). TAI CHI IN THE GARDENS When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 8:30-9:30 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi surrounded in the serenity of the Gardens. Individuals of all ages and physical conditions can use the fluid movements to help release tension, increase balance and relax. $10 members/$17 non-member. (863) 734-1222 FINANCIAL FITNESS FOR FAMILIES When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Explorations V Children’s Museum 109 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland. explorationsv.com/financial-fitness/ Build “money smarts” with the whole family! Learn strategies, set goals and find new ways to spend less but live better. Free family memberships, gift cards, quarterly drawings, and matching savings! We also have financial activities for children ages 3-12. Must register in advance (863) 687-3869 TIME FOR A CHANGE MEDITATION RETREAT When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Join Reiki Master and Sound Healer Kristen Tenpenny for a retreat dedicated to better understanding of energy medicine postures, breathing exercises, guided visualization meditation, walking meditation and sound healing. $40 members/$47 non-members. (863) 734-1222 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Auburndale Community Center 405 Bennett St., Auburndale. www.auburndalefl.com/event/breakfast-with-santa/ What could be better than meeting Santa with a plate of eggs and bacon? There will be craft activities, our holly jolly Santa, and breakfast! Tickets are $10 863-965-5545 or visit 119 W Park Street, Auburndale, FL MERRY MARDI GRAS STREET MARKET When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: The Beatnik Exchange and Indie Blu 4304 Wallace Road, Lakeland. Shopping, entertainment and food for the holidays to include vintage, antiques, art and many other unusual and unique
finds. Family friendly with many other activities throughout the day. Admission and parking is free so come out and enjoy this beautiful holiday time with us.
possible future. The first step is to attend a Big Orientation & Training session where you’ll learn about our programs, commitments, expectations and our kids. Get more details about volunteering https://bbbstampabay.org/be-a-big/
HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW “HOLIDAY BIRDING TRADITIONS” When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Birds are a part of many international holiday traditions; discover how to include feathered friends in your celebrations. Make a suet & seed bird feeder ornament at Doodlebug Art Place. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
3 AUTHORS AND A HOLIDAY BRUNCH WITH A FLORIDA VIBE When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 12-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Join cookbook authors Pam Brandon, Katie Farmand and Heather McPherson for a delectable holiday brunch celebrating local, seasonal products, stories and recipes for super-easy holiday entertaining. Each guest will enjoy four delicious courses, craft beer and wine and receive their choice of a signed copy of one of the presenters’ cookbooks. $55 members/$65 non-members. Part of the Florida Food Series presented by Visit Central Florida. (863) 734-1222 Register online.
SNOWFEST When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Munn Park, Lakeland. www.lakelandgov.net/events/snowfest-2018/ A holiday event for the entire family! Join Lakeland Parks & Recreation Department for its Annual Snowfest featuring the traditional Snow Mountain! Arts and crafts vendors, rock climbing wall, live entertainment and more! You may even catch a glimpse of Santa!
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH GERRI BLOUNT When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
TOWN & COUNTRY HISTORY BUS TOUR When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Depot Museum and Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com Take a tour through old Florida history, driving through the heart of downtown Lake Wales and stopping at historic building of the Lake Wales Arts Center. Along the way, participants will learn about the historic district, buildings and lakes of Lake Wales. Enjoy an air-conditioned ride on the new History Bus! $15/person. Seating limited. Advanced registration and payment required. (863) 678-4182
‘TIS THE SEASON: THE CHRISTMAS GALA When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Where: Branscomb Auditorium 1085 Johnson Ave., Lakeland. Florida Southern College Music Department Adults: $8; Students: $4 Call 863-680-4296 for tickets.FSC’s Department of Music presents ‘Tis the Season: The Christmas Gala with a riveting group of musical holiday favorites, beautifully performed by choral, instrumental, and string groups — and selected special music by other musical combinations. Concluding with a Christmas Carol Sing-Along for the FSC Symphony Band and audience. Come join us for a traditionally spectacular evening — filled with surprises!
ART LAB (for all ages) When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org Free for Members, $5 per Non-Member. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited. Registration will open two weeks prior to each monthly session.Each month participants will be introduced to one of the Museum’s exhibitions in a fun, entertaining and accessible manner through hands-on learning for all ages and skills. Labs are led by professional artists or art educators whom will engage participants in creating their own piece of artwork or experience their own interaction through a wide array of art mediums, techniques and connecting conversations relating to a specific exhibition on display in the Museum.Questions: Contact Ellen Chastain at EChastain@PolkMuseumofArt.org or 863-688-7743 ext. 227
SYMPHONY GUILD OF WINTER HAVEN HOLIDAY CONCERT When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 3 p.m. Where: Champions Church 1801 Havendale Blvd. NW, Winter Haven. centralfloridatix.com Maestro Mark Thielen will lead The Imperial Symphony Orchestra in its return for a fourth consecutive year. Come and enjoy the music of the season! Doors will open at 2:30pm. Order tickets online. LAKELAND SANTACON 2018 When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 5 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland. https://www.facebook.com/events/2117230248308952/ Suit up in your finest Santa digs and help us support local downtown businesses with this year’s annual Santacon Pub Crawl! FB@Lkldsantacon
BIG BROTHER BIG SISTER ORIENTATION & TRAINING When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: BBBS Office 1231 Orange St., Lakeland. https://bbbstampabay.org/be-a-big/ Join us as a defender of potential by becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister and together, we can change the world. All it takes is 4-8 hours a month, depending on the program, with a focus on being consistent and spending one-to-one quality time with your Little. Let’s clear a path to a child’s biggest TOM HANKS
CHRISTMAS PARADE AND WINTERFEST When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Wilson Park - 5 State Street, Davenport. City of Davenport presents the Christmas Parade at 6, Winterfest from 6-9! Get into the Christmas spirit in Davenport!
THE CHAIN LIFE CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE! When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: Lake May, Winter Haven. www.chainlifewinterhaven.com Boats meet in Lake May near Marine Supply around 6 PM. Around 6:30pm, WHPD will lead the boats. Simply file in line behind Winter Haven PD. The parade will last approximately an hour and a half and pass all of the restaurants and a few city boat ramps. Judges will be located throughout the parade route. No registration necessary. COME TO THE STABLE AND BETHLEHEM SQUARE A LIVING NATIVITY When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 6:30-9 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian Church Winter Haven 637 Sixth St. NW, Winter Haven. www.facebook.com/events/188443655366320/ A live-performance living nativity under the stars with beautifully costumed actors, animals and music. Following each performance the audience is invited to visit Bethlehem Square for refreshments.Performances are at 6:30 p.m. (Children) & 7:30 p.m. (Mixed). Children are invited to pet the sheep and donkey after each performance. The nativity performances are our gift to the community. There is no charge or offering taken. The nativity site provides seating and is handicapped friendly. Parking is behind the church adjacent to the performance setting. Access the parking area from north of the church education building on the corner of NW. 6th St and Avenue H. For more information: Call: (863) 294-3121 Visit: www.firstpreswh.org CHRISTMAS PARADE When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Lake Alfred. mylakealfred.com Join us for the parade, then join us at Frank C. Gardener Park for our annual tree lighting, snow and cookies! Then give your wish list and get your picture taken with Santa at the Gardner House!If you would like to be in the parade please contact our Parks and Recreation office at 863-291-5272 CHARLES DICKENS’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 7:30 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.rpfundingcenter.com Celebrate the true Spirit of Christmas with this brand new, original production filled with haunting special effects and heartfelt sentiment. A powerful story of redemption, it has enchanted audiences the world over with its simple message of holiday joy. LAKENIGHT CINEMA MOVIE IN THE PARK: ELF When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 8-10 p.m. Where: Lake Wailes Park/Gazebo 499 E Park Avenue, Lake Wales. http://www.cityoflakewales.com Join us down at the lake after the Annual Christmas Parade for LakeNight Cinema Movie in the Park. We will be watching Elf. There will also be Food Trucks available. LENNON REIMAGINED When: Dec. 08, 2018 | 8-11 p.m. Where: LkldTV Studio B 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland. www.lkldlive.com Local musicians pay tribute to John Lennon.
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 50 -
We Moved! Visit Us At Our New Address 1818 Harden Boulevard, Ste. 110 • Lakeland, FL 33803 • 863-248-6881
Holiday time is movie time! Bring the family! Present this coupon for
Buy 1 Get 1
$149
FREE
SIGNUP SPECIAL
Join Our Weight Loss Program ($380 value)
Limit 1 per car. Expires 12/31/18.
4100 US 92 W • Lakeland • SilverMoonDriveIn.com Swap Shop every Saturday and Sunday
www.GloryWellness.com 49
Santa Wants You To Save Up To 70% Off! FREE OR FREE
HEAD BOARD While they last
SHEET SET
OR
While they last
HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW: MEET MRS. CLAUS When: Dec. 09, 2018 | 1-3 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Meet Mrs. Claus for pictures and enjoy story time on the Sabal Stage. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
MORE IN STORE ON SALE NOW!
NATURE TOUR When: Dec. 09, 2018 | 2 p.m. Where: Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve 945 Mackay Blvd, Lake Alfred. Join our seasoned interpretive guide, Steve Franklin, for a moderately easy walk along a trail at Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve. Steve will share information on the natural and cultural history of the area and discuss some of the environmental issues we face as we attempt to conserve and protect our natural resources. (863) 291-5272 LAKELAND CONCERT BAND When: Dec. 09, 2018 | 2:30 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.lakelandconcertband.org Our concerts begin at 2:30 p.m. Before each concert, we showcase local talent with a pre-show at 1:45 p.m. Concerts are free and no tickets are needed.We are an all-volunteer band with musicians of all ages, from teens to 90s. For more information about our performances or for information about joining the band, please call our conductor Vic Larsen at 813-716-2577
FREE*
PILLOWS While they last
Come See What You Qualify For With Your Purchase!
Headboards From
59
$
LIGHT UP LAKELAND FOR LITERACY When: Dec. 09, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: Lakeland. www.jlgl.org The Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the Lunz Group are thrilled to introduce a new event, the community’s first-ever luminary night, Light Up Lakeland. We invite you to line the curb in front and around your home with beautiful luminaries. This year’s theme is Light Up Lakeland for Literacy. All proceeds benefit women and children’s wellness, and specifically, literacy development for birth through school-aged children as facilitated by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland.This year’s display will be Sunday, December 9 at 6 PM.The Junior League is selling luminary kits as follows:1 Kit for $20 Total (15 bags, candles, sand, and assembly instructions)2 Kits for $30 Total (30 bags, candles, sand, and assembly instructions) Kits will be dropped at your residence the week prior to December 9. Instructions on how and when to put your luminaries out will be included with your kits upon delivery.ORDER ONLINE BY NOVEMBER 16, 2018.Questions? Please contact LightUpLkld@JLGL.org.
Queen Day Bed Firm Or $ Pillow Top Mattress Set Add Mattress $139
299
399
$
Murphy Beds Lowest Price Now! SAVE $800
Bedroom Sets UP TO
50 % OFF
LAKELAND MAGIC VS LONG ISLAND NETS When: Dec. 09, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. lakeland.gleague.nba.com/ NBA G League
Convertible Sofa Bed Twin, Queen Or Full
10–16
Adjustable Beds
Lowest Prices *Guaranteed
COOKING CLASS When: Dec. 11, 2018 | 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Publix Cooking School 4730 Florida Ave S, Lakeland. Tablescape your holiday table as you prepare & EAT table creations of plant based food dishes. Pre-register with Publix (863) 646-5769 $45
Save $1000+
All Recliners
On Sale!
Night stands, End tables and more
*NO MONEY DOWN From INTEREST FREE FINANCING
5 pcs Dining Sets From
199
$
LUNCH & LEARN: HERB GARDENING When: Dec. 11, 2018 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Lakeland Electric 501 E Lemon St., Lakeland. www.lakelandgov.net/events/lunch-and-learn-herbgardening/ Learn how to grow healthy and nutritious herbs in your yard. Herbs have great versatility in the kitchen and can be used around the home. Learn seasonality, preferred growing conditions and harvesting tips. Registration is limited. This is a free lunch and learn workshop and lunch is provided. Workshop is presented by the City of Lakeland Water Utilities and the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County.
79
$
863.845.2025 1806 1st Street S. Winter Haven
MEDITATION WITH CRYSTAL & TIBETAN SINGING BOWLS When: Dec. 11, 2018 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales.
Next to Chick-Fil-A bedandfur niturehaven.com * See Store For Details
havenmagazines.com
50
boktowergardens.org Experience a sound healing with Reiki Master Kristen Tenpenny through the vibrations of the ancient Tibetan and crystal singing bowls that reduce stress, pain and tension while producing a deep, meditative state. $15 members/$22 non-member. Participants should bring mat, blanket and any other materials that will make your meditation experience more comfortable. (863) 734-1222 Register online. IMPERIAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: HANDEL’S MESSIAH When: Dec. 11, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.rpfundingcenter.com Lakeland Choral Society joins the ISO for a stunning performance of Handel’s Messiah to kick off the holiday season. (863) 834-8111 LAKELAND MAGIC VS WESTCHESTER KNICKS When: Dec. 11, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. lakeland.gleague.nba.com/ NBA G League MAIN STREET BARTOW’S FARMERS AND COMMUNITY MARKET When: Dec. 12, 2018 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Fort Blount Park W Davidson St., Bartow. More than fruit and vegetables! You may find handcrafted items, popcorn, jewelry, fresh baked goods, homemade jams, and food trucks. Check the Facebook page to see what’s new each week. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Fort Blount Park, corner of Main and Broadway.. CARING FOR FRUIT TREES IN THE HOME LANDSCAPE When: Dec. 12, 2018 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Learn how to select the right fruit tree for your yard along with tips for long-term care and maintenance from UF IFAS experts. Included with general admission or membership. Registration to event required. (863) 734-1222 HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH MARCUS BRIXA When: Dec. 12, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate Historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Free with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 SKULLYS BARBER SALON AT SWAN BREWING When: Dec. 12, 2018 | 6:40-9:40 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. Mobile hair salon will be open at Swan Brewing every Wednesday. CREATIVE WRITING CRITIQUE GROUP When: Dec. 13, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven. https://www.mywinterhaven.com/event/creative-writingcritique-group-2/2018-12-13/ This group meets on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month from 12:30 — 2:30 p.m. Attendees share and critique their writings. All aspiring writers are welcome. (863) 291-5880 Questions? Send email to wekeig@gmail.com. HOLIDAY HISTORY PARTY When: Dec. 13, 2018 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Depot Museum and Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com Celebrate the season at the museum’s holiday party! Enjoy festive food, live holiday music, photos with Santa, history talks, holiday history trivia, old-fashioned ornament making, and donation bar with fine wines and craft beer. Free to the public. Please RSVP. (863) 678-4182 HEARING LOSS CHAPTER MEETING When: Dec. 13, 2018 | 6-7:30 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian Church 175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland.
www.hla-lakeland.org Monthly chapter meeting of the Hearing Loss Association - Lakeland Chapter. We will often have presentations by hearing loss professionals, potlucks, holiday dinners, general chat, games, etc. The purpose of these meetings is to bring together folks who have hearing loss and want to learn more about how to better manage their hearing loss. We talk about our advocacy programs and services.Meeting are looped and captioned.Meeting days are the 2nd Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pmMore information on our website: www.hla-lakeland.org DOWNTOWN LAKELAND FOOD TRUCK RALLY When: Dec. 13, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Munn Park, Lakeland. FREE ADMISSION! PET AND KID FRIENDLY!Join us for the Downtown Lakeland Food Truck Rally on the second Thursday of the month in Munn Park Historic District from 6-9pm! OPEN STUDIO When: Dec. 13, 2018 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Art Centric Studio 1035 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. www.artcentricstudio.com Art Centric Studio is opening up the studio once a month just for you! A place where you can come, create, and get to know other artists! Grab your pens, pencils, paints, markers, canvas, or whatever else you might need to be creative! Whether you’ve got a million ideas, one, or even none, enjoy coming over to Dixieland and get creating with our Lakeland community. WINTER HAVEN STAMP CLUB When: Dec. 13, 2018 | 7:15 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian Church 6th St. NW, Winter Haven. The Winter Haven Stamp Club meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:15. They meet in the Geneva room at the church. Everyone with an interest in stamp collecting is welcome. VISTE: BIRTHDAY CAKE DELIVERY When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 8:30 a.m. Where: VISTE: Volunteers in Service to the Elderly 1232 E. Magnolia St, Lakeland. http://viste.org Help celebrate our clients turning 90 and older each month by baking, decorating, and/or delivering a birthday cake to them. E-mail Audrey or Ashley for details: audrey@viste. orgashley@viste.org (863) 284-0828 POINT OF VIEW GALLERY TALK When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org This month, Brian Hamilton will be discussing Chagall: Stories into Dreams. Brian Hamilton is an assistant professor of religion at Florida Southern College. (863) 688-7743 CHRISTMAS SOCK HOP WITH JOHNNY WILD & THE DELIGHTS When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 5 p.m. & 8 p.m. Where: Lake Ashton Clubhouse 4140 Ashton Club Dr., Lake Wales. www.theatrewinterhaven.com This event takes place at the Lake Ashton Clubhouse and not
ARTIST CONNIE COMBS: BODY TALK When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Outer Space Gallery 230 Ave C SW, Winter Haven Artist reception and opening of new exhibition.
HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW: HOLLY-DAY PLANTS When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Families will learn about plants used around the world to make the holidays more festive. Learn how to draw a poinsettia at Doodlebug Art Place. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
FLORIDA TROPICS VS HARRISBURG HEAT When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 7:35 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.fltropics.com Major Arena Soccer League
HOLIDAY WALKABOUT When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland. downtownlkld.com Stores and shops will be open late serving up yummy goodies (like cider and cookies) and special deals, and there will be live music on the street corners — but the streets will not be closed. There will be the traditional holiday lights decorating Munn Park and costumed characters patrolling around for spontaneous selfies.
HOLLY JOLLY JINGLE BELL JOG 5K & REINDEER DASH When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 7:30 a.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland. www.jbjog.com A fun festive 5k! Proceeds from the event go to the perpetual care fund for the 3 Parks Trail. The Jingle Bell Jog is a fun festive event including a chipped 5k. Runners and walkers of all levels are welcome. (Strollers are asked to start towards the back.) For more information and registration link visit: www.JBJog.com
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING PARTY When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: Eloise Resource Center 710 Snively Ave, Eloise. Light up the holiday season at Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Holiday Tree Lighting Party. This FREE family event will feature DJ, Dance contests, sweet treats, arts & crafts and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. For more information, please call the Eloise Resource Center (863) 298-4425.
DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland. http://www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Stretching more than three blocks down North Kentucky Ave, the Downtown Farmers Curb Market brings 70-plus vendors to the heart of Downtown Lakeland every Saturday. Our vendors offer fresh produce, a wide variety of plants, locally handcrafted items, and delicious ready-to-eat food. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA).
BARTOW’S MAGICAL ILLUMINATION CHRISTMAS PARADE When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: Downtown Bartow. What is a holiday in Bartow without a parade! The parade begins at 6 p.m. at Mosaic Park. Lineup is at 5 p.m. on South Floral Avenue, north of the Civic Center. Lighted and decorated floats, cars and marching units will head north on Broadway, then east on Main Street to First Avenue.
TERRAIN RACE When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Sun ‘n Fun 4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland. http://terrainrace.com/locations/tampa-december-15-2018/ Bring your friends and family to conquer obstacles and play in the mud at this amazing obstacle race! We have a 5k and unlimited lap option with 20+ obstacles and mud. Kids as young as 7 can race the full 5k course too! All athletes will run a sweet course, take on some of the best obstacles imaginable, and trudge through some sick mud. REGISTRATION INCLUDES:- Commemorative TERRAIN CONQUERED shirt- Finisher Medal- Race bib- Showers to rinse away the mud.
SNOW CENTRAL When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Chain ‘O Lakes Complex 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven. www.facebook.com/events/508085056358717/ Photo opportunities with Santa, cookie decorating, bounce houses, and 70 TONS of real SNOW to play in. Adults: $2Children $1 (2 + years) Be sure to check out Santa’s House at the event and get your FREE photo taken with him before he has to deliver gifts to all the good girls and boys. Follow the beautifully lit arches towards the winter wonderland. There will be slides and a play area for kids young & old alike.
TAI CHI IN THE GARDENS When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 8:30-9:30 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi surrounded in the serenity of the Gardens. Individuals of all ages and physical conditions can use the fluid movements to help release tension, increase balance and relax. $10 members/$17 non-member. (863) 734-1222
PRAISE IN THE PARK When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 6:30-8 p.m. Where: Central Park 4th St. NW, Winter Haven. Bring a lawn chair & listen to local church praise bands. DANIEL JOINER TRIO: A TRIBUTE TO VINCE GUARALDI When: Dec. 14, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales.
BOOK STORE 1/2 PRICE SALE When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Friends of the Winter Haven Library Book Store 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven. The Friends of the Library Bookstore repeats their 1/2 price sale on the 3rd Saturday of every month. MEET SANTA When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center 101 Adventure Ct., Davenport. Santa Claus is coming to town! Enjoy snacks, games and crafts -- plus meet that jolly ol’ elf himself, Santa! Bring your own camera! Pets donning festive garb are welcome! While at the Visitor Information Center, kick-start your holiday shopping by picking up local goodies from the Purely Polk Marketplace or discounted tickets to Central Florida’s hottest attractions. (863) 420-2586 DOCENT-LED TOUR When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org Free for everyone.Join us each month to get a fresh look into the Museum’s main exhibition through connecting conversations with one of our passionate docents. Learn the stories behind the work and talk “art” with ease as we bring people and art together. All ages welcome. Registration is not necessary but appreciated. Space is limited. (863) 688-7743. ARCHITECTURAL TOUR When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow. www.polk-county.net Join us for a family friendly architectural tour of the History Center and learn more about Neo-Classical architecture, the construction of the building and the stories behind the iconic Old Polk County Courthouse. The architectural tour is on the third Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. (863) 534-6000 FAMILY FUN DAY DECEMBER- “UGLY HOLIDAY SWEATER CONTEST” When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: YMCA Par 3 Home of The First Tee of Lakeland 1740 George Jenkins Boulevard, Lakeland. This is a FUN Family day, where a team of 2 family members
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 -
a $30. purchase!
HOLISTIC QUARTERS OF LAKELAND
Gift Certificates • Integrative Package $399 regular price $425 Available • Holistic Synergy Coaching Program™ • Restorative Yoga with Thai Massage • Integrative Massage • Cupping Therapy • Oncology Massage Menayra Caro, MA, BS, LMT, CYT Certified Holistic Health Coach
$5. OFF
ift Give the G ! of Healing
COMMUNITY WIDE YARD SALE When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Downtown Bartow. mainstreetbartowfl.com
www.lakewalesartscouncil.org Daniel Joiner and his trio will take center stage at the Lake Wales Arts Center for an evening of Vince Guaraldi classics and reimagined traditional Christmas hymns! Mr. Joiner is currently the professor of piano at Southeastern University and St. Petersburg College. He’s also the Sunday morning pianist at Idlewild Baptist Church and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in classical and jazz piano.The festivities begin at 4:00 PM with a free masterclass (open to the general public). There will be a meet-and-greet with the Daniel at 6:00 PM (for Lake Wales Arts Council members and season ticket holders). The concert begins at 7:00 PM.
at Theatre Winter Haven. Florida’s number one 50’s band is back just in time for the Holiday season! Johnny Wild brings his acclaimed Christmas spectacular to Lake Ashton this year for one wild night of wintertime fun! Johnny and his full nine piece Christmas band bring your ultimate retro Christmas playlist to life onstage with his trademark style and energy! Featuring classic Christmas songs and all your favorite 50’s classics. 863-294-SHOW (7469)
Est. Lic. No. 35555
231 N. Kentucky Avenue Suite 219 • Lakeland, FL 33801 (by appointment only) • (863) 853-0031 www.holisticquarters.com 51
home
$5 .
essentials
325 N. Kentucky Ave. Downtown Lakeland, FL Mon.-Sat. 10-4
(863) 687 -3600
y! p. Enjo
Marni Johnson, Owner
www.HomeEssentialsFL.com facebook.com/HomeEssentialsLakeland
Sho Come. Tools for Kitchen, Dining & Entertaining. Great Gifts!
play 9 HOLES in a Scramble or Alternate Shot Format, with each player carrying 3 clubs & a putter. Golf experience is suggested.Team make-up: 1 adult and a youth, under 17. Or 2 youths may play together as long as they have golf experience and 1 adult may play with 2 youth, the adult will play 2 balls.Cost: YMCA of West Central Florida $5 ea/ non-members $10 eaCost includes refreshments and awards. Start Time: 11:30am shotgun (players must be checked in by 11:15am)*Advance registration is required by Thursday before.Questions? Call 863-577-0236 HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH LEE HUNTER & JOEY KERR When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 JAPANESE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 1-3 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org With expert instruction from Bloom Box Floral Owner Laurel LeMaistre, AIFD, learn how to create your own stunning floral arrangement and take it home. $40 members/$47 non-members. (863) 734-1222 FREE SKI SHOW: CHRISTMAS EDITION When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 3:30 p.m. Where: Lake Silver Drive South, Winter Haven Watch the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team perform their Christmas show. Bring your own chairs, concessions available. SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 4 p.m. Where: The Bike Shop of Winter Haven 249 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven This event is free! Bring your bike and meet at the Bike Shop. We will slow roll through town to watch the Christmas edition of the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Afterwards, we will roll back through town and meet at Grove Roots. No advanced registration necessary. KNO - OH SNAP! When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 5:30-8 p.m. Where: Art Centric Studio 1035 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. www.artcentricstudio.com Art Centric Studio is excited to offer our monthly KiDz NiGhT OuT!!! We know you parents enjoy an evening away, and so we thought it was high time the kids got a special night too!! Each month we will be offering Pizza and Painting for children ages 7 & up! The classes will include a pizza dinner, games, and a painting! Now we’re offering sibling discounts! This is a beginner level class and we will walk your child through the process step-by-step. THE ART OF FILM: RUSSIAN ARK When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org The Art of Film presents a forum for appreciating movies as an art form. With audience Q&A and talkback sessions with film directors and faculty from Florida Southern College following each screening, this unique Polk Museum series will entertain, engage, and educate audiences of all ages. Russian Ark Director: Alexander Sokurov. While most known for his feature films, Sokurov has directed over 20 interesting documentaries. His 2002 sensational “Russian Ark” is a historic achievement that will be watched and talked about by many generations. Doors open at 6:00 pm, Introduction and Screening at 6:30 pm. The Art of Film is free to attend. Cash bar available. Registration is appreciated. LOTELA GOLD When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: Ramon Theater 15 E Wall Street, Frostproof. www.ramontheater.com Enjoy the sounds of the 60s, 70s and beyond. Purchase tickets online. (863) 635-7222 20 LAKELAND MAGIC VS RIO GRANDE VALLEY VIPERS When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. lakeland.gleague.nba.com/ NBA G League. havenmagazines.com
FLORIDA DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS: TCHAIKOVSKY’S “THE NUTCRACKER” When: Dec. 15 & 16, 2018 Where: Branscomb Auditorium 1085 Johnson Ave., Lakeland. www.flsouthern.edu/visitors/festival-of-fine-arts/ffa-events. aspx In celebration of their 25th anniversary, the members of Florida Dance Theatre (FSC’s company-in-residence under the direction of Carol Erkes), bring their classic holiday tradition of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to the Festival of Fine Arts. Come see this timeless holiday masterpiece, performed with charm and perfection by the dynamic dancers of this impressive ensemble in a breathtaking production featuring colorful scenery, dazzling costumes, and entrancing choreography. Part of the 2018-2019 Festival of Fine Arts Series, presented by Florida Southern College. Adults: $25 Students (under 12): $15
MAIN STREET BARTOW’S FARMERS AND COMMUNITY MARKET When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Fort Blount Park W Davidson St., Bartow. More than fruit and vegetables! You may find handcrafted items, popcorn, jewelry, fresh baked goods, homemade jams, and food trucks. Check the Facebook page to see what’s new each week. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Fort Blount Park, corner of Main and Broadway. HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH BEN TORRES AND MARILYN FRIEDLAND When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 12-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate Historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
NAUGHT NOT NICE SHOW! JOHNNY B CHRISTMAS COMEDY SPECIAL When: Dec. 15, 2018 | 8-11 p.m. Where: LkldTV Studio B 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland. www.lkldlive.com/ 102.5FM The Bone’s Hilarious Late Night Host JOHNNY B is back at Lkld Live for another comedy special.
FOOD AS MEDICINE When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 1-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Many common herbs and spices in your own pantry have added health benefits. Learn how to add herbs for health in your daily cooking. Make and take an herbal infused superfood salad. $10 members/$15 non-members. Register online. (863) 734-1222
CONSCIOUS COMMUNICATION When: Dec. 16, 2018 | 1-4 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Explore a course that provides the tools and experiences to create a more authentic and powerful projection of yourself. Participants will learn more about their inner intuitive capacity and improve communication skills. $35 members/$42 non-members. Register online (863) 7341222
MOONLIGHT MARKET When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven. Finish your holiday shopping! Support small businesses! Shop vendors from all over central Florida, food trucks, live music and beer!
LAKELAND CHORAL SOCIETY WINTER CONCERT When: Dec. 16, 2018 | 3-4:30 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian of Lakeland 175 Lake Hollingsworth, Lakeland. www.lakelandchoralsociety.org/ Come join the Lakeland Choral Society for their annual Holiday Concert at First Presbyterian of Lakeland. 175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr. Adults $15, 17 and under free, Students $5 at the door.
RED TENT WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Catapult Lakeland 331 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. Join us the third Wednesday of each month for a wellness meet up, Free and open to all. Christmas Party sing-a-long: Patty Kenoly. Donations to Red Tent and/or tips to the featured guest/s will be accepted. SKULLYS BARBER SALON AT SWAN BREWING When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 6:40-9:40 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. Mobile hair salon will be open at Swan Brewing every Wednesday.
CARILLON & CHORALE HOLIDAY When: Dec. 16, 2018 | 4 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Enjoy a holiday concert that combines the talents of chorale members from Harrison School for the Arts with the Singing Tower. Free with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
CREATE! PHOTO ORNAMENT ADULT CRAFT When: Dec. 20, 2018 | 6-7 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Public Library 290 Cypress Garden Lane, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com Join us and make your own photo Christmas ornament. All materials are provided and class is free but seats are limited, participants must register at the Library or by calling 863678-4004 ext. 221.
17–23
A HOLIDAY SPECIAL: WITHOUT THE SNOW When: Dec. 18, 2018 | 5 p.m. & 8 p.m. Where: Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven. www.theatrewinterhaven.com/ Part of the Tribute Tuesday Series. (863) 294-SHOW (7469)
MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER When: Dec. 20, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.rpfundingcenter.com Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls — Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America. Get seats now for the whole family and make memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker! www.nutcracker.com
SENIOR DANCE SOCIAL When: Dec. 18, 2018 | 7:30-9 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Senior Center 250 S Lake Silver Dr, Winter Haven. www.mywinterhaven.com/parks-and-recreation/programs/ senior-classes/ Singles and couples welcome. Live entertainment and refreshments. More info call (863) 291-5870 Resident $3 and non-resident $4 CHAT & CHEW WITH THE MAYOR When: Dec. 19, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Eagle Ridge Mall 451 Eagle Ridge Dr, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com Lake Wales Mayor Fultz will host an informal session to chat with citizens on December 19, 2018 at 10am in the Eagle Ridge Mall at Kingdom City Outreach. The Mayor will listen to any concerns citizens have and will share about legislative issues. There will be coffee and donuts.
CREATIVE YOGA WITH MICHELLE PUGH When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org Dedicated yoga practitioner Michelle Pugh will guide you through an hour long hatha-based class that will end with a meditation focused on our current exhibition. Our classes are a community format so that all ages, sizes, and levels of experience will feel comfortable. Practice will vary to increase diversity in your practice. Modifications are always offered. Please arrive early as space is limited and bring your own 52
mat and blanket if possible.Cost: $10 Non-members / $5 Members. If you have any questions, please call Membership Manager, Diana Smith, at 863.688.7743 x 249. DULCIMER NIGHT When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Central Park 4th St. NW, Winter Haven. The Musical Hammers will perform on hammered and mountain dulcimers. Bring a chair and enjoy the music in the park. HOLIDAY WALKABOUT When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland. downtownlkld.com Stores and shops will be open late serving up yummy goodies (like cider and cookies) and special deals, and there will be live music on the street corners — but the streets will not be closed. There will be the traditional holiday lights decorating Munn Park and costumed characters patrolling around for spontaneous selfies. On December 21, visitors can take pictures with Santa at Focus Realty on 218 E. Pine Street. They can also participate in a “Whoville Hair” and “Ugly Sweater Selfie” contest. DEGAS: THE PRIVATE IMPRESSIONIST MEMBERS RECEPTION When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 6-8:30 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland. polkmuseumofart.org Lecture followed by a reception and cash bar. This reception is a complimentary membership benefit. Students with valid ID are welcomed free of charge. Please present your membership card upon arrival. RSVP by Monday, December 17. Want to bring a friend? Non- members are welcome for $10. Not a Member? Visit PolkMuseumofArt.org/Join for levels and benefits. FRIDAY FEST When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Bartow. mainstreetbartowfl.com Presented by Main Street Bartow HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center 801 Ave T NE, Winter Haven. Kick off your holidays with a evening full of holiday games, food & fun! This is a kid friendly and free event for the whole family. If you would like more information please call the Winter Haven Recreational and Cultural Center at (863) 291-5675 DAVID BRIMER When: Dec. 21, 2018 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. swanbrewing.com SANTA’S RUN FOR OUR KIDS When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 6 a.m. Where: Central Park 4th St. NW, Winter Haven. whoptimist5k10k.com This event is a 5k,10k,1/2 mile kids run, 0-5 and 6-9 kids fun
$100 REBATE* ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES OF
HUNTER DOUGLAS WINDOW FASHIONS
AAA Vertical Blind Factory 863.325.8898 785 Cypress Gardens Blvd. Winter Haven, Fl stinasblinds.com * 9-22-18 to 12-10-18
run. The 10 K starts at 7 AM, the 5K begins at 8AM,and and the kids runs begin at 9ish. Race-day registration begins at 6 am. There will be music, food, and kids’ activities. Santa will be there. LAKE WALES FARMERS MARKET When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Market Place 20 N Market Place, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com Fresh baked goods, produce, crafts & more. DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland. www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Stretching more than three blocks down North Kentucky Ave, the Downtown Farmers Curb Market brings 70-plus vendors to the heart of Downtown Lakeland every Saturday. Our vendors offer fresh produce, a wide variety of plants, locally handcrafted items, and delicious ready-to-eat food. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW: HOLLY-DAY PLANTS When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. /boktowergardens.org Families will learn about plants used around the world to make the holidays more festive. Learn how to draw a poinsettia at Doodlebug Art Place. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222. HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH OMARI DILLARD When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 FLORIDA FOOD SERIES FERMENTED BEVERAGES When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 1-3 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org This fun hands-on demonstration workshop focuses on the general exploration of various fermented beverages including Kombucha and Water Kefir. Sample several fun drinks throughout the class and attendees can take home a ginger drink. Part of the Florida Food Series presented by Visit Central Florida. $30 members/$37 non-members. Register online. (863) 734-1222 SATURDAY AFTERNOON FAMILY MOVIES When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 2 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven. www.mywinterhaven.com Enjoy a family friendly movie on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month! Admission is FREE and food and drink are welcome. DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (PG)
CLASSIC CAR SHOW When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 4-8 p.m. Where: Downtown Market Place 20 N Market Place, Lake Wales. www.cityoflakewales.com SANTA AT THE STATION When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 5-8 p.m. Where: Haines City Fire Department 138 N 11th St., Haines City. Please bring your cameras for pictures! Hot chocolate & cookies will be served and our station will be open for tours. FLORIDA TROPICS VS MILWAUKEE WAVE When: Dec. 22, 2018 | 7:05 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.fltropics.com Major Arena Soccer League HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW: MEET MRS. CLAUS When: Dec. 23, 2018 | 1-3 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Meet Mrs. Claus for pictures and enjoy story time on the Sabal Stage. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
MAIN STREET BARTOW’S FARMERS AND COMMUNITY MARKET When: Dec. 26, 2018 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Fort Blount Park W Davidson St., Bartow. More than fruit and vegetables! You may find handcrafted items, popcorn, jewelry, fresh baked goods, homemade jams, and food trucks. Check the Facebook page to see what’s new each week. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Fort Blount Park, corner of Main and Broadway.
TAI CHI IN THE GARDENS When: Dec. 29, 2018 | 8:30-9:30 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi surrounded in the serenity of the Gardens. Individuals of all ages and physical conditions can use the fluid movements to help release tension, increase balance and relax. $10 members/$17 non-member. (863) 734-1222
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH DEAN JOHANESEN When: Dec. 26, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
KIDS PIZZA MAKING When: Dec. 29, 2018 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Kids will learn how to make sauce and roll out the dough, top and bake the pizzas in the wood-fired oven. For children ages 8-14 with enough pizza for one adult included. Additional member adults $30. Additional non-member adults $40. Member child $25/Non-member child $35. (863) 734-1222
SKULLYS BARBER SALON AT SWAN BREWING When: Dec. 26, 2018 | 6:40-9:40 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. Mobile hair salon will be open at Swan Brewing every Wednesday.. CREATIVE WRITING CRITIQUE GROUP When: Dec. 27, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library, 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven. www.mywinterhaven.com/event/creative-writing-critiquegroup-2/2018-12-13/ This group meets on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month from 12:30 — 2:30 p.m. Attendees share and critique their writings. All aspiring writers are welcome. (863) 291-5880 Questions? Send email to wekeig@gmail.com.
THE RALEIGH RINGERS When: Dec. 23, 2018 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.rpfundingcenter.com Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, The Raleigh Ringers performs on one of the most extensive collections of bells and bell-like instruments owned by any handbell ensemble in the world. Each individual handbell set has its own unique sound. By mixing the sounds of these instruments, members of The Raleigh Ringers create contrasting moods and highlight melodic lines, bringing richness and depth to the music they perform.
WINTER HAVEN STAMP CLUB When: Dec. 27, 2018 | 7:15 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian Church 6th St. NW, Winter Haven. The Winter Haven Stamp Club meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:15. They meet in the Geneva room at the First Presbyterian Church, 637 6th street NW Winter Haven. Everyone with an interest in stamp collecting is welcome.
24–31 CHRISTMAS DAY CARILLON CONCERT When: Dec. 25, 2018 | 1 p.m. 3 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Holiday concert featuring Christmas Carols from around the world. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222
LAURIE & RUSTY WRIGHT DUO When: Dec. 28, 2018 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland. Laurie & Rusty Wright (of the Rusty Wright Band) perform as a guitar driven duo with soaring vocals. Dynamic music, refreshing song list. DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Dec. 29, 2018 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland. www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Stretching more than three blocks down North Kentucky Ave, the Downtown Farmers Curb Market brings 70-plus vendors to the heart of Downtown Lakeland every Saturday. Our vendors offer fresh produce, a wide variety of plants, locally handcrafted items, and delicious ready-to-eat food. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA).
DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF EAST POLK/ RIDGE When: Dec. 25, 2018 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: The r-place eatery restaurant 35523 Hwy 27, Haines City. (Between Wendy’s and Badcock) Meets Every 4th Tuesday In Haines City. All Democratic women are welcome to join the club, where we discuss shared political views and volunteer for activities that help elect fellow Democrats. Contact: Anne Huffman, Club President (863-242-3230) and annehuffman01@gmail.com
HOLIDAYS AT HAMMOCK HOLLOW: NEW YEAR TRADITIONS FROM THE NETHERLANDS When: Dec. 29, 2018 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Take the “Plunge” with a wintery run through the River Walk and discover Dutch traditions with cookies and crafts at Doodle Bug Art Place. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS MUSICAL AFTERNOONS WITH BRYAN RIVERS When: Dec. 29, 2018 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. boktowergardens.org Live music performed at the Pinewood Estate historic Frog Fountain Courtyard. Included with general admission or membership. (863) 734-1222 FLORIDA TROPICS VS ORLANDO SEA WOLVES When: Dec. 29, 2018 | 7:05 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland. www.fltropics.com Major Arena Soccer League DEATH IS A CABERNET ‘OL CHUM A MURDER MYSTERY DINNER When: Dec. 31, 2018 | 6 p.m. Where: Ramon Theater 15 E Wall Street, Frostproof. www.ramontheater.com Use your sleuthing skills to investigate the death of Cabernet vintner Malcolm Melee. Ticket price includes dinner & favors. Purchase tickets online. 863-635-7222 $50
We’ve Moved! New Location
4 Rooms Coffee Cartel • Asylum Cinema • Split
6310 Cypress Gardens Blvd. SE Winter Haven
NEW
Many New Classes Coming!
Call 863.450.3232 LakelandEscapeRoom.com
(863)298-8185
www.MyHeartToHeartQuilting.com
Gift Certificates Available 53
LAKE WALES MUSEUM CENTRAL FLORIDA’S
Stop for History SINCE 1976
EXHIBITS
MOUNTAIN L AKE: A LOOK INSIDE BUILDING A LEGACY
DECEMBER 4, 2018 - FEBRUARY 16, 2019 EXHIBIT RECEPTION: JANUARY 22, 2019
BLACK HISTORY MONTH EXHIBIT - FREEDOM RIDERS
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20, 2019
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
SPEAKER SERIES FEATURING LU VICKERS “CYPRESS GARDENS: AMERICA’S TROPICAL WONDERLAND” JANUARY 17, 2019 HISTORY TALKS: MOUNTAIN LAKE ESTATES JANUARY 31, 2019 LAKE WALES HISTORY BUS TOUR FEBRUARY 2, 2019 BLACK HISTORY MONTH PRESENTATION FEATURING DR. TAMEKA HOBBS “STRANGE FRUIT IN FLORIDA” FEBRUARY 21, 2018 MUSEUM BOOK CLUB 4TH THURSDAY OF THE MONTH
JANUARY - THREE CUPS OF TEA BY GREG MORTENSON FEBRUARY - NOTES OF A NATIVE SON BY JAMES BALDWIN
LAKE WALES MUSEUM ALWAYS FREE 325 S Scenic Highway ● Lake Wales, Florida Open 9 AM - 5 PM ● Tuesday - Saturday www.cityoflakewales.com
SOLD HOMES
142 VINE DR......................................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $215,000 326 PALOMA DR...............................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018........... $217,500 312 CHESHIRE WAY...........................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018......... $220,000
AUBURNDALE
246 ROBIN RD..................................DAVENPORT.........10/12/2018..........$228,000 434 DIAMOND ACRES RD................DAVENPORT..........10/4/2018..........$229,900
411 OAK ST..................................... AUBURNDALE........ 10/10/2018........... $85,000
103 OAK POINT.................................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018......... $230,800
128 DIXIE HWY............................... AUBURNDALE........ 10/10/2018.......... $105,000
515 PAMPLONA PL............................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018..........$234,900
130 DIXIE HWY.............................. AUBURNDALE........ 10/10/2018.......... $105,000
107 BELLA DR....................................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018......... $238,000
304 RICO WAY............................... AUBURNDALE..........10/8/2018.......... $125,000
2243 BARRINGTON LOOP................DAVENPORT......... 10/11/2018......... $244,000
106 MAIN ST.................................. AUBURNDALE..........10/3/2018.......... $145,000
116 CITRUS ISLE ST............................DAVENPORT..........10/9/2018..........$246,500
1949 FOXHOLLOW DR................... AUBURNDALE..........10/2/2018........... $165,100
307 RIGGS CIR..................................DAVENPORT.........10/12/2018......... $250,000
706 AUBURN PRESERVE BLVD...... AUBURNDALE..........10/2/2018.......... $173,000
315 ORANGE COSMOS BLVD............DAVENPORT.........10/12/2018......... $250,000
123 PATTERSON DR....................... AUBURNDALE.......... 10/1/2018.......... $175,000
204 CITRUS ISLE LOOP....................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018......... $264,400
517 MAIN ST................................... AUBURNDALE..........10/5/2018.......... $179,000
232 BRUNSWICK DR.........................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $301,600
213 LAKE MARIANA PL................... AUBURNDALE..........10/5/2018...........$179,300
516 GRANDE DR................................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $315,000
201 ALEXANDER ESTATES DR........ AUBURNDALE.......... 10/1/2018..........$233,000
395 BRUNSWICK DR.........................DAVENPORT.......... 10/1/2018......... $350,000
1510 SHOREWOOD DR.................. AUBURNDALE..........10/9/2018..........$272,000
133 WHIRLAWAY DR.........................DAVENPORT..........10/9/2018.......... $351,800
310 LAKE MARIANA PL.................. AUBURNDALE..........10/9/2018...........$357,200
371 BRUNSWICK DR..........................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018..........$353,600
1010 LAKESHORE DR..................... AUBURNDALE.......... 10/1/2018.......... $431,000
532 WILMONT TER...........................DAVENPORT........ 10/10/2018......... $360,000
273 SUMMERSHORE DR................ AUBURNDALE..........10/3/2018.......$2,867,000
5552 MISTY OAK CIR........................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $363,700
BARTOW
5315 OAKBOURNE AVE.....................DAVENPORT..........10/4/2018........... $427,100 3209 SERENDIPITY WAY...................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018....... $1,540,900
1130 SHADY CT...................................... BARTOW..........10/3/2018............ $77,000
140 BENTLEY OAKS BLVD.................DAVENPORT..........10/9/2018...........$159,700
1110 BENNETT CT................................... BARTOW..........10/2/2018.......... $104,500
117 HARPERSFIELD ST.......................DAVENPORT.........10/12/2018........... $191,000
1921 GRIFFINS GREEN DR....................... BARTOW..........10/9/2018...........$150,700
384 ARBOR LAKES DR......................DAVENPORT..........10/9/2018......... $206,000
1816 FOREST HILL DR............................. BARTOW..........10/4/2018............ $161,100
1800 SERENO DR..............................DAVENPORT..........10/9/2018......... $220,000
105 VALENCIA DR.................................. BARTOW..........10/5/2018..........$180,000
116 PARADISE WOODS PL.................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018...........$231,500
1300 CARMEN AVE................................ BARTOW..........10/3/2018.......... $183,000
120 PINEWOOD CT...........................DAVENPORT..........10/4/2018..........$235,000
542 HEATHER CT................................... BARTOW........ 10/10/2018.......... $185,500
185 ALFORD DR................................DAVENPORT..........10/2/2018..........$253,900
4670 BARUSH RD.................................. BARTOW........ 10/10/2018.......... $215,000
205 ALFORD DR...............................DAVENPORT........ 10/10/2018..........$276,000
4835 IRONWOOD TRL.......................... BARTOW..........10/9/2018..........$324,900
1126 CYPRESS POINTE BLVD.............DAVENPORT........ 10/19/2018......... $290,000
DAVENPORT
1120 CYPRESS POINTE BLVD.............DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018......... $300,000 173 NORFOLK DR..............................DAVENPORT.......... 10/1/2018......... $340,000
701 TERRACE RIDGE CIR...................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $135,000
114 DOUGLAS PARK AVE..................DAVENPORT..........10/4/2018........... $116,500
103 MAGNOLIA ST............................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018..........$140,000
109 ROGUES RETREAT 22203..........DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018........... $119,000
336 MYSTERY HOUSE RD.................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $145,000
416 LUCAYA LOOP 4304...................DAVENPORT.......... 10/1/2018.......... $130,000
713 WINDSOR ESTATES DR...............DAVENPORT..........10/2/2018........... $165,100
2234 FAN PALM DR...........................DAVENPORT.......... 10/1/2018.......... $135,000
258 CARRERA AVE...........................DAVENPORT..........10/2/2018........... $170,100
334 LA MIRAGE ST............................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018.......... $135,000
3621 CHATWICK LN..........................DAVENPORT.........10/12/2018........... $171,000
50989 HIGHWAY 27 LOT 330...........DAVENPORT.........10/12/2018.......... $189,000
152 PINEWOOD DR...........................DAVENPORT..........10/2/2018.......... $175,000
212 ELGIN BLVD.................................DAVENPORT..........10/8/2018........... $197,500
208 CITRUS ISLE LOOP....................DAVENPORT........ 10/10/2018......... $204,400
540 RIGGS CIR..................................DAVENPORT..........10/4/2018.......... $202,700
309 ROBIN RD..................................DAVENPORT.......... 10/1/2018......... $205,000 219 RIDGEMONT CT.........................DAVENPORT..........10/2/2018......... $208,000
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 56 -
CATHY “K” KLUYTENAAR &
The K Team Real Estate Services
RELAX. YOU’RE HOME.
Polk County’s Favorite Real Estate Family
Cathy Kluytenaar Zac Kluytenaar
Visit our new website at yourkteam.com
Florrie Kluytenaar
863-604-6220 55
225 BUCKINGHAM CIR.....................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018......... $220,000
862 LAKE CUMMINGS BLVD........... LAKE ALFRED..........10/4/2018.......... $194,900
345 ALDRIDGE LN............................DAVENPORT.......... 10/1/2018..........$222,000
536 INTERLOCK ST......................... LAKE ALFRED..........10/8/2018..........$250,300
346 GREELEY LOOP.........................DAVENPORT..........10/3/2018......... $242,000
617 TOTTY WAY.............................. LAKE ALFRED..........10/3/2018..........$258,600
51401 US HIGHWAY 27......................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018......... $250,000 0 US HIGHWAY 192...........................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018......... $250,000
LAKE WALES
0 US HIGHWAY 192...........................DAVENPORT..........10/5/2018......... $250,000
204 BULLARD...................................LAKE WALES..........10/2/2018............$85,900
362 HIGHER COMBE DR...................DAVENPORT..........10/4/2018.......... $310,000
837 WILDABON AVE.........................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018..........$100,000
FORT MEADE
1010 HIGHVIEW DR...........................LAKE WALES..........10/6/2018.......... $130,000
3825 US HIGHWAY 98.....................FORT MEADE.......... 10/1/2018..........$140,000
1152 VIEW POINTE CIR......................LAKE WALES......... 10/11/2018.......... $169,000
811 OSCEOLA AVE.............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018.......... $125,000
2201 WALK IN WATER RD..................LAKE WALES........ 10/10/2018......... $250,000
FROSTPROOF
58 MOUNTAIN LAKE........................LAKE WALES..........10/3/2018......... $425,000
208 FAIRWAY BLVD........................FROSTPROOF..........10/4/2018.......... $159,000
20709 HWY 27..................................LAKE WALES..........10/5/2018.......$1,300,000
1921 N LAKE REEDY BLVD................FROSTPROOF..........10/9/2018..........$190,000
20769 US HIGHWAY 27.....................LAKE WALES..........10/5/2018.......$1,300,000 441 2ND ST........................................LAKE WALES..........10/5/2018.......$1,300,000
HAINES CITY
105 N LAKESHORE DR......................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018........... $116,500
420 PARADISE ISLAND DR.............. HAINES CITY..........10/2/2018........... $110,300
4456 TURNBERRY LN.......................LAKE WALES..........10/3/2018........... $137,500
2407 ST AUGUSTINE BLVD.............. HAINES CITY.........10/12/2018.......... $136,000
1202 ASHTON PALMS DR..................LAKE WALES..........10/5/2018.......... $155,000
300 3RD ST...................................... HAINES CITY..........10/9/2018..........$140,000
4248 DINNER LAKE ST.....................LAKE WALES..........10/5/2018.......... $170,000
9410 LAKE MARION CREEK RD....... HAINES CITY..........10/9/2018.......... $150,000
114 DINNER LAKE AVE.......................LAKE WALES........ 10/10/2018.......... $195,000
1909 9TH ST..................................... HAINES CITY.........10/12/2018........... $177,000
4150 DINNER LAKE WAY...................LAKE WALES..........10/5/2018.......... $199,500
2676 HEMINGWAY AVE.................... HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018..........$180,000
2164 HODGE TRL..............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
617 KERMARAH AVE........................ HAINES CITY........ 10/10/2018.......... $185,900
2707 MCGREGORS COVE CT............LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
4438 BONNET LAKE DR.................. HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018..........$190,000
2148 HODGE TRL..............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
268 W MAIN ST................................ HAINES CITY..........10/4/2018.......... $190,900
2144 HODGE TRL..............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
1503 GULF VUE DR.......................... HAINES CITY..........10/3/2018...........$197,000
2136 HODGE TRL..............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
2332 PAULETTE DR.......................... HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018......... $200,000
2316 SIENNA RUN.............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
326 HIDDEN LAKE LOOP................. HAINES CITY........ 10/10/2018......... $200,000
2315 SIENNA RUN.............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
2830 SANDERLING ST..................... HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018......... $205,000
2116 HODGE TRL...............................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
520 MONTICELLI DR....................... HAINES CITY..........10/3/2018.......... $216,500
24186 US HIGHWAY 27.....................LAKE WALES.........10/12/2018.........$1,754,100
214 CITRUS POINTE DR................... HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018...........$227,700
978 OLD CUTLER RD........................LAKE WALES........ 10/10/2018..........$160,000
479 MONTICELLI DR........................ HAINES CITY..........10/4/2018...........$227,900
2131 HWY 60.....................................LAKE WALES.......... 10/1/2018......... $605,000
556 MONTICELLI DR........................ HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018......... $230,800 925 FALLON HILLS DR..................... HAINES CITY..........10/3/2018..........$246,300
LAKELAND
435 MONTICELLI DR....................... HAINES CITY..........10/5/2018.......... $254,700
925 REYNOLDS RD............................. LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018........... $90,000
37 BASS ST....................................... HAINES CITY........ 10/10/2018..........$255,000
1248 MORGAN DR.............................. LAKELAND..........10/2/2018........... $114,900
9950 LAKE MARION RD.................. HAINES CITY.........10/12/2018.......... $309,100
1111 CINNAMON WAY W...................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $120,000
1671 E HINSON AVE.......................... HAINES CITY.......... 10/1/2018.......... $327,000
523 HAMPTON AVE............................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $122,000
210 BROOKES PL............................. HAINES CITY..........10/2/2018......... $446,500
519 HAMPTON AVE............................. LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $130,000
LAKE ALFRED
1024 LEXINGTON ST........................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $164,200
204 CALADIUM AVE....................... LAKE ALFRED.........10/12/2018........... $119,900
727 COLLEGE AVE............................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $280,000
2219 OLNEY RD................................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $152,000
Beautiful New Homes
from the $170’s to $300’s
Personalized to Your Style Neighborhoods Near You! *Prices, rates, terms, plans and specifications subject to change without notice. See your Community Manager for details. CGC #058580
FIND YOUR NEW HOME AT:
havenmagazines.com
www.HighlandHomes.ORG • (863) 797-4999 56
3252 SUMMERLAND HILLS CRK......... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018..........$292,500
8534 SUNNYDALE LN......................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $175,000
6207 FORESTWOOD DR..................... LAKELAND..........10/8/2018.......... $397,500
7225 RANCH RD.................................. LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018......... $205,000
1377 E LAKE PARKER DR..................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018......... $500,000
5858 SWALLOW DR............................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $208,000
1224 E MEMORIAL BLVD..................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $761,000
810 CEDAR KNOLL DR........................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $218,500
1715 MONTEE LN................................. LAKELAND..........10/9/2018............$82,900
3540 KATHLEEN PNES........................ LAKELAND..........10/4/2018..........$265,000
438 CAMEO DR.................................. LAKELAND..........10/5/2018..........$103,000
11511 OLD DADE CITY RD.................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018............$92,500
3457 WHITMAN CT............................ LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018.......... $145,000
3512 DOREEN DR................................ LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018..........$100,000
3549 RAINTREE TER........................... LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018.......... $153,000
720 SWISS DR..................................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018.......... $135,000
1135 AFTON ST.................................... LAKELAND.........10/12/2018.......... $156,000
3922 AQUILLA DR............................... LAKELAND..........10/3/2018...........$135,700
2725 NEVADA ST................................. LAKELAND..........10/2/2018..........$164,000
3952 AQUILLA DR.............................. LAKELAND..........10/3/2018...........$135,700
1940 GRASSLANDS BLVD................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018.......... $165,000
1600 OAK DR...................................... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018........... $137,500
3033 WOODSTOCK AVE.................... LAKELAND..........10/2/2018............$171,500
2210 HARBORTOWN LN..................... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018.......... $143,000
130 E PARK ST..................................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $189,900
4310 LEWELLYN RD............................ LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018.......... $159,900
1352 PIPKIN RD................................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018..........$190,000
3218 SWIFT FOX TRL........................... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018.......... $165,000
311 E PALM DR..................................... LAKELAND..........10/2/2018.......... $213,000
3688 MADBURY CIR........................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $175,000
1943 DANES CT................................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018......... $230,000
7302 BRIARBAY LOOP........................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018..........$180,000
122 YOUNG PL..................................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018......... $230,000
2741 STONEWOOD DR........................ LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018..........$188,000
119 PARK ST......................................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018......... $250,000
1754 GREY FOX DR............................. LAKELAND..........10/2/2018.......... $195,000
1005 SOUTH BLVD.............................. LAKELAND.........10/12/2018..........$256,000
3564 REMINGTON OAKS PATH.......... LAKELAND..........10/8/2018......... $200,000
623 EASTON DR.................................. LAKELAND..........10/2/2018......... $345,000
3119 ORANGE GROVE CT.................... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018.......... $201,000
114 EASTWAY DR................................. LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $420,000
1991 DANES CT.................................... LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018..........$205,500
120 EASTWAY DR................................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $420,000
8762 FORT SOCRUM VILLAGE WAY... LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018........... $211,000
2805 SHOAL CREEK VILLAGE DR....... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018......... $450,000
2032 DANES CT.................................. LAKELAND.........10/12/2018.......... $218,800
1917 VIA LAGO DR............................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $485,000
8162 WOODVINE CIR.......................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018......... $230,000
400 PALMOLA ST............................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $589,000
7874 CANTERBURY CIR...................... LAKELAND..........10/8/2018..........$239,900
2904 SANCTUARY CIR...................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018......... $842,900
2907 CREEKS CROSSING BLVD.......... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $243,400
3008 SANCTUARY CIR...................... LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018........$1,029,500
2909 BLACKWATER CREEK DR........... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018..........$278,000
317 W VALENCIA ST............................ LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018........... $83,900
4945 GOLDENVIEW LN...................... LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018.......... $105,000
1038 W 10TH ST.................................. LAKELAND..........10/4/2018........... $90,000
1085 OLD SOUTH DR......................... LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018.......... $105,000
2836 ORCHID LN................................ LAKELAND..........10/2/2018.......... $162,000
3121 FILLY LN....................................... LAKELAND..........10/2/2018............. $111,100
2415 N COMBEE RD............................ LAKELAND..........10/4/2018.......... $165,000
1931 BIRCHWOOD LOOP.................... LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018..........$146,000
5722 LACAR WAY................................ LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018.......... $175,000
6337 TORRINGTON CIR...................... LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $158,000
5733 LACAR WAY................................ LAKELAND..........10/4/2018...........$181,000
6483 SEDGEFORD DR........................ LAKELAND..........10/4/2018.......... $166,400
5725 CUSTER DR................................ LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $215,000
3365 SANOMA DR.............................. LAKELAND..........10/2/2018.......... $170,900
2327 SEBAGO DR................................ LAKELAND..........10/9/2018......... $305,000
6339 TORRINGTON CIR..................... LAKELAND..........10/8/2018........... $175,700
7060 HAVERTYS WAY........................ LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018...... $3,250,000
5721 ANTLER TRL................................ LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018.......... $185,000
6416 SHIFLETT AVE............................ LAKELAND..........10/8/2018........... $80,000
6557 SHEPHERD OAKS RD................. LAKELAND..........10/4/2018.......... $185,000
5412 LIMESTONE LN........................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018........... $127,000
3656 SANDHILL CRANE DR................ LAKELAND.........10/12/2018......... $209,000
5437 LIMESTONE LN........................... LAKELAND..........10/8/2018.......... $129,000
6725 FORESTWOOD DR..................... LAKELAND..........10/3/2018..........$239,900
925 FENTON LN 3................................ LAKELAND........10/24/2018.......... $135,000
5923 LAUREL OAK DR........................ LAKELAND..........10/9/2018......... $250,000
6208 CRANE DR................................. LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $162,000
5732 BUCK RUN DR............................ LAKELAND.........10/12/2018......... $286,000
302 CORONA DEL MAR ST................. LAKELAND.........10/12/2018.......... $165,000
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 59 -
Mark Piburn
Senior Loan Officer NMLS ID # 454138 863.604.4942
Cyndee Smith
Donna Slagel
Senior Loan Officer NMLS ID # 459635 863.944.3098
Senior Loan Officer NMLS ID # 552549 863.287.8289
Make your dream home a reality with your local lending team. 1525 South Florida Ave, Suite 4 Lakeland, FL 33803 ph: 863.393.9973 lakeland.embracehomeloans.com
Shawn Dunning
Loan Officer NMLS ID # 1056163 863.944.7889
Matthew Buxton
Loan Officer NMLS ID # 1525196 863.430.8859
Embrace Home Loans, Inc. NMLS ID # 2184 is licensed in 46 states plus DC. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
57
We’re searching for POLK COUNTY’S
SEXIEST MAN What makes a man sexy? Is it the way he carries himself? His attitude? What they do for others? Is it his style, smarts or sophistication? Maybe it’s because he’s a total babe or perhaps it’s something intangible. Nominations for Polk County’s Sexiest Man will be accepted December 1-31, 2018. Please send a photo, a short description of the person you’re nominating and why you’re nominating them along with his contact info. He MUST currently live in Polk County. Please email your nomination to contest@scmginc.com havenmagazines.com
58
4138 WINDING VINE DR..................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018.......... $139,800
438 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
5760 WOODRUFF WAY...................... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018.......... $199,000
432 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
3314 PEARLY DR.................................. LAKELAND..........10/5/2018......... $260,400
426 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
2625 HIGHLANDS VUE CT.................. LAKELAND..........10/8/2018..........$292,400
420 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
761 SCHOOLHOUSE RD...................... LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018............ $77,400
414 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
6428 TIMUCUANS DR........................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $108,300
408 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN..........10/6/2018.........$480,000
1150 SHADOW RUN DR....................... LAKELAND..........10/2/2018............ $115,100
402 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
4104 ORANGE AVE............................. LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018.......... $142,000
396 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
5211 MESSINA...................................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018..........$160,000
390 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
2040 CHARNES DR............................ LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018........... $177,000
384 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
3476 HILSON DR................................. LAKELAND......... 10/11/2018.......... $199,900
366 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
679 LAKE CLARK PL............................ LAKELAND..........10/5/2018.......... $210,000
922 MLK. BLVD............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018............$75,000
2237 EASTMEADOWS RD................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018............ $217,100
6330 BAYBERRY BLVD.................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018............$79,900
687 JESSANDA CIR.............................. LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018.......... $219,000
702 COUNTRY LN........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018........... $86,500
3410 CLUBHOUSE RD......................... LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018......... $220,000
2 LYCHEE DR................................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018............$89,500
4922 WHITEOAK DR........................... LAKELAND..........10/2/2018......... $230,000
3823 AVENUE R...........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018........... $92,000
4502 HALLAM HILL LN....................... LAKELAND..........10/3/2018......... $243,000
337 8TH ST..................................WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018.......... $102,000
6868 HARTSWORTH DR.................... LAKELAND..........10/4/2018......... $285,000
1907 16TH ST................................WINTER HAVEN..........10/3/2018.......... $105,000
1328 EVERGREEN PARK CIR................ LAKELAND..........10/2/2018...........$293,100
1209 CRESTWOOD DR................WINTER HAVEN..........10/3/2018........... $121,000
6907 EAGLE RIDGE BLVD................... LAKELAND........ 10/10/2018..........$295,000
1630 NE AVENUE E.......................WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018..........$160,000
2876 SEYMORE ST.............................. LAKELAND..........10/2/2018.......... $312,000
1706 MUIRFIELD VILLAGE ST.......WINTER HAVEN.........10/12/2018.......... $189,500
1334 BRIGHTON WAY......................... LAKELAND.......... 10/1/2018......... $349,900
1180 HAINES DR...........................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018...........$195,700
905 CAMELOT LN............................... LAKELAND..........10/9/2018......... $628,000
296 LAKE LUCERNE WAY.............WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018......... $206,900
3975 NEW TAMPA HWY...................... LAKELAND..........10/3/2018.......... $415,000
476 HAINES TRL..........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018......... $209,800 283 LAKE LUCERNE WAY.............WINTER HAVEN..........10/3/2018........... $219,100
WINTER HAVEN
603 14TH ST.................................WINTER HAVEN.........10/12/2018......... $220,000
115 PALM DR.................................WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018............$75,000
316 LAKE LUCERNE WAY.............WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018...........$225,100
704 HATFIELD RD........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018............$79,000
267 LOMA DR..............................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018......... $244,800
309 VANIMAN AVE......................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018........... $83,000
3350 CRUMP RD..........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018.........$448,000
627 KINGS LN...............................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018........... $85,000
237 SANTA ROSA DR...................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018........... $88,300
743 AVENUE Q.............................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018............$87,000
237 SANTA ROSA DR...................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018........... $88,300
704 HATFIELD RD........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018............ $87,500
237 SANTA ROSA DR...................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018........... $88,400
3008 THORNHILL RD..................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018........... $89,900
3106 POST OAK CT......................WINTER HAVEN......... 10/11/2018........... $90,000
638 SE PIEDMONT DR.................WINTER HAVEN........10/24/2018........... $90,000
5861 RED FOX DR........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018........... $92,000
689 LAKE HOWARD DR APT 1E....WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018........... $95,000
609 SWEET BAY CIR....................WINTER HAVEN.........10/12/2018.......... $105,000
2024 KINGS XING........................WINTER HAVEN......... 10/11/2018........... $95,000
1002 MEDINAH DR......................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018.......... $120,000
602 34TH ST................................WINTER HAVEN......... 10/11/2018.......... $105,000
5736 LAKE FOX DR......................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018.......... $128,000
2324 ISLE ROYAL CT SE...............WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018........... $115,900
145 TREMONT DR........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018.......... $135,000
207 9TH ST..................................WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018.......... $125,000
6528 WINTERSET GARDENS RD.. WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018...........$137,000
6001 LIVE OAK DR.......................WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018.......... $143,900
2948 WHISPERING TRAILS DR....WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018...........$147,800
1109 SUNSHINE WAY....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018.......... $149,000
106 LAKE DAISY TER....................WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018...........$157,000
701 SE AVENUE L..........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018..........$160,000
3153 WHISPERING TRAILS AVE....WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018.......... $165,900
1633 WALLACE MANOR BLVD.....WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018.......... $172,000
2956 WHISPERING TRAILS DR....WINTER HAVEN..........10/3/2018...........$176,900
624 EAGLE LAKE LOOP RD..........WINTER HAVEN..........10/9/2018.......... $184,900
149 LOWELL RD...........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018...........$179,900
4642 MAGNOLIA PRESERVE LOOP.WINTER HAVEN......10/8/2018..........$186,000
125 LINCOLN RD..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 10/11/2018.......... $182,000
851 KILLEARN BLVD.....................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018.......... $186,500
2132 BRETTON RIDGE BLVD........WINTER HAVEN..........10/6/2018..........$194,800
5148 MAGNOLIA PRESERVE BLVD.WINTER HAVEN........10/3/2018......... $204,900
106 TERRACE DR.........................WINTER HAVEN.........10/12/2018.......... $199,900
4329 THOMAS WOOD LN...........WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018......... $205,000
2238 LAKE DAISY RD...................WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018......... $205,000
1210 LAKE CT...............................WINTER HAVEN..........10/5/2018.......... $210,000
2957 DAYTON DR........................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018...........$233,100
1620 BETH LN..............................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018......... $250,000
4900 WILLOWBROOK CIR..........WINTER HAVEN........ 10/10/2018..........$239,000
5500 COMMERCIAL BLVD...........WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018......... $425,000
340 OKALOOSA DR....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 10/1/2018.......... $247,000
113 FALL GLO RD..........................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
610 LAKE SUMMIT DR.................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018......... $260,000
107 FALL GLO RD.........................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
0 HILLCREST DR..........................WINTER HAVEN..........10/4/2018......... $260,000
101 FALL GLO RD.........................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000
281 HERNANDO RD.....................WINTER HAVEN..........10/2/2018..........$295,000
106 FALL GLO RD.........................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000 444 HONEY BELL RD...................WINTER HAVEN........ 10/16/2018.........$480,000 59
WORDS & PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Home for the Holidays at Pinewood Estate This year come, “Home for the Holidays” and experience Pinewood Estate transformed. Inspired by the grandeur of the 1940s, you will find beautifully decorated trees, lots of lights and tinsel. Step back in time and take a glimpse at how the Buck family might’ve celebrated the holidays. You cannot help but to smile as you walk through the beautifully decorated rooms. From the kitchen to the bathrooms, the Christmas spirit is everywhere. Pinewood Estate is a 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion on the grounds of Bok Tower Gardens. Originally named “El Retiro,” meaning “retreat” in Spanish, the Estate was built in the early 1930s for Charles Austin Buck. Buck was a great admirer of the Latin lifestyle and architecture, and he wanted “El Retiro” to be reminiscent of it. Architect Charles Wait was hired to
havenmagazines.com
design the house that has become one of the finest examples of Mediterraneanstyle architecture in the state of Florida. Wait designed the 12,900 square foot Mediterranean-style home with many characteristics of an antique villa, complete with a barrel-tile roof, thick walls, substantial carved doors and woodwork, and intricately detailed wrought iron. Pinewood Estate at Bok Tower Gardens November 23 - January 6 $25/Adults $12/Child (ages 5-12) Open everyday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Last admission at 5 p.m. (863) 734-1222 Boktowergardens.org 1151 Tower Boulevard Lake Wales, FL 33853
1
2
3
5
Lakeland Magic
4
6
1
Sherrie McCollough Kevin McCollough
2
Mary Bailey Craig Bailey Billyo Costar
3
Haley Shockley Michael Trattner
4 Belina Ferreira
Angel Rosado Jr. Dominick Rosado Angel Rosado III
5
Nadia Ranpergas Jackie Ranpergas
6 Debi Dunham
H.R. Dunham
7
Candace Mong Erin Willaford
8 Wayne Green
George Denis Shan Simmons Edens Joseph Franke Eizere
PHOTOGRAPH Bill Siegel
7
havenmagazines.com
8
62
1
2
3
4
Art Crawl
1
Tessy Cabrera Tessy Adele Cabrera Marykel Cabrera
2
Carrie Reynardo Marie Wilson
3
Celeste Pierson Patricia Lamb
5
6
4 Charles Hendrick
Connor Hendrick
5
Samantha Lincoln “Eli” Marah McAleer “Dax”
6 Victoria Astley
Gwen Astley Vaughn Astley
7
Tatiana Jenkins Silvia Jenkins
7
8
8 Mary Kloek
Ken Kloek
PHOTOGRAPH Bill Siegel
havenmagazines.com
63
Holiday Open House
1
2
1
2
Fred Schwering Donna Adams Robert J. Bowling Bill Schneider Judy O Patrick Furlow Anne Furlow Denise Turgeon Becky Lane
3 Cole Myers
Tiffany Myers Cindy Myers Hawk Myers
4 Alysia Ronan,
“Lemon”
5 Lynda Gee
Tim Walker
6 Ray Thompson
Beth Roberts Phyllis Thompson Hugh Roberts
PHOTOGRAPH Bill Siegel
3
5
havenmagazines.com
4
6
64
65
May The Peace And Joy That Christmas Brings…
Always Be With You And Your Family!
From Our Family To Yours,
Merry Christmas!
475 West Main Street | Bartow
863-578-4883 | www.stingraybartow.com havenmagazines.com
66
8
ww
Fall in love with an WALK-IN URGENT CARE
FOR YOUR
LITTLE SUPER HERO
Urgent Care FLU SHOTS
X-RAYS
MINOR INJURIES
COLDS
NECK PAIN
Board Certified Pediatrician on Staff WINTER HAVEN :: 550 POPE AVE NW, STE 200 :: 863.299.2630 OPEN EVERY DAY 7AM-11PM
WALK INS WELCOME
LAKELAND :: 3240 S FLORIDA AVE, STE 101 :: 863.644.7337 OPEN EVERY DAY 10AM-10PM
WALK INS WELCOME
OWLNOWURGENTCARE.COM We accept most major medical insurances as well as HMOs & Medicaid. 67
Home Solution Lenders, Inc. Quick Close • Great Rates Conventional | Construction | Refinances VA | FHA & USDA Loans 863-607-HOME (4663) • HSLenders.com 1445 E Main Street • Bartow, FL 33830 NMLS: 327291 • Lic Florida MLD954 havenmagazines.com
68