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June
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920 Magnolia Ave. Auburndale, FL
Letter From the Editor
LOCAL TICKETS LOCAL EVENTS LOCALLY LOCAL
Hello! It’s June already and the year is flying by! Happy Father’s Day to all of the Dad’s and father figures out there, enjoy your special day on the 16th! This month’s cover photo was created with local flowers we actually went out to a farm and picked! Thank you to Will Crum who allowed us to “pick anything we wanted” for the cover shot. The flowers are all shapes, sizes, colors, varieties and some are actually weeds! They are beautiful by themselves but when grouped together it couldn’t be more beautiful. I think we can say the same thing about a lot of things, yes? This month’s cover story is in celebration of Pride Month. Pride Month is every June and will be celebrated here in Polk County with a week of events hosted by Polk Pride. We had the opportunity to sit down with them for our cover story. Find out what they do and who they’re helping locally. Dan Chesnicka from Theatre Winter Haven has written a piece on the importance of the theater in the community. I have to give a huge thank you to Dan. He wrote an honest piece about the inclusiveness of the theater, especially to those that society hasn’t always fully embraced. Thank you to everyone that sat down with us and shared your story. For our profiles this month, we talk with Alison Foley-Rothrock, an immigration lawyer, advocate, survivor, creator of the Red Tent Initiative and an active member of the LGBTQ community. She was inspiring to talk to and truly tries to help the underserved population of Polk. We also talk with Dustin Shay and Kerri McCoy. All three residents prove that being yourself, and not what others think you should be, is the only way to find peace.
REHAB live at Jessie’s
Go out to eat with us at Frescos! We sat down with Tina Calhoon and talked about Frescos 10th Anniversary this year. She reflects on the past, the future and how they celebrated this milestone. Congratulations to them!
Date: Jun 8
We talk with Lakeland resident, Kevin O’Brien. He made a goal for himself to write, direct and produce a feature-length film here in Polk County. He accomplished that, and we sat down with him to hear about his process and why this first film is so important to him.
Broadway Award Night 2019
Haven took a day trip to Tampa to visit the “Thai Temple” we’ve been hearing about. Every Sunday, volunteers serve up authentic Thai food and all the money goes back to the Temple. It’s definitely worth the drive out, let me know if you go!
Date: Jun 9
Your month should stay busy with our Top Ten lists of things to do around Polk, Orlando and Tampa along with our daily calendar. Want to see your event listed? Send the details to me! Would you like to see your Facebook or Instagram posts in next month’s issue? That’s easy, just add #lkldhaven to your post and we will find you. It’s growing so large, expect a third page of posts printed in July! Everyone loves Florida and your pictures prove it!
2019 Summer Arts Camp Date: Jun 17 – Jul 19
Enjoy our latest issue & please keep in touch! Amy Sexson Editor & Partner HAVEN & LKLD Magazines
Craft Beer Crawl 2019
amy@havenmagazines.com
Date: Jun 20
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RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW
LKLD J U N E
CONTENTS
FEATURES PROFILES.........................................................................26 COVER STORY...............................................................14 RESTAURANT................................................................24 TRAVEL............................................................................ 40
5.......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 8..................................................................LOCAL NEWS 10............................................................... TOP 10 TO DO 18...................................................................................ARTS 23 ..................................................................... COCKTAIL 32.....................................................................CALENDAR 37..........................................SOLD HOMES LISTINGS 42........................................................ IN THE MOMENT
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JUNE VOLUME 2 ISSUE 9 Publisher Chris Sexson Editor Amy Sexson Managing Editor Tara Crutchfield Contributing Writers Barry Friedman Dan Chesnicka Contributing Photographers Tara Crutchfield Amy Sexson Art & Production Manager Steven Maynard Ad Director Chris Campbell LKLD HAVEN is published twelve times a year by Destroyer Media Marketing. 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: christine@destroyermedia.com For editorial information please contact: amy@destroyermedia.com To submit to our calendar: amy@destroyermedia.com Office: PO Box 1607 Winter Haven, Florida 33881 863.225.8667
2017 Digital Excellence for Best Social Media 2018 Best Design: Cover Best Redesign
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LOCAL NEWS WORDS Barry Friedman/LkldNow.com
PUBLIX LAKELAND LINDER HEADQUARTERS LANDS AMAZON AIR EXPANSION PLANS CARGO FACILITY HAVE EXPANDED Lakeland Linder Airport landed a huge new tenant. Amazon Services Inc. plans to build a $100 million air cargo facility on 47 acres it’s leasing from the city. Construction of the sorting center northwest of the airport terminal is expected to start in early July and last a year. Expected employment: 800 to 1,000. Lease payments start at $967,812 a year for the first five years of the 50-year contract and then escalate. With other fees, the city expects about $1.5 million a year in payments from Amazon.
HISTORY, CULTURE CENTER WOULD CELEBRATE ETHNIC DIVERSITY It took a village to build Lakeland, and the village included folks from a lot of ethnic backgrounds. That diversity would be celebrated in a proposed History & Culture Center. City commissioners were receptive when their parks and rec staff presented plans to place the center in the middle of the Public Library’s Lake Morton branch. They envision exhibits in a space just outside the Lakeland History Room; the area is now used for music discs, which will go away, and DVDs and Spanish-language materials, which will be moved. Startup costs are projected at $300k. Next steps involve getting it through the city budget process.
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Construction hasn’t started yet, but Publix Super Markets’ plans to enlarge its Lakeland headquarters have already expanded. Last fal,l the grocery giant announced plans to spend $28 million on a 190,000-squarefoot addition to its main office off the Polk Parkway. In May, they said the addition of 30,000 square feet and office/computer equipment will up the price to $65 million. As a result, Publix is seeking an increase in the already approved $163,208 a year in tax breaks over the next 10 years.
POLK SCHOOLS WILL ARM GUARDIANS & AND OFFICERS, NOT TEACHERS A new law that had the support of local legislators and Polk Sheriff Grady Judd would allow school districts to train and arm teachers to protect their classrooms. But that won’t be happening in Polk County. School Superintendent Jacqueline Byrd says local schools will continue using armed guardians or school resource officers to comply with a 2018 school-protection law. “The sheriff has not come to me asking to arm any teachers,” Byrd said.
FROM ELATION TO ANGUISH: BABY SWAN GOES MISSING
ONCE AGAIN, VIRAL VIDEO SHOWS A SEAMY SIDE
ANOTHER VIRAL VIDEO GETS SHERIFF’S ENDORSEMENT
Unless gators are involved, viral videos out of Lakeland rarely reflect positively. Such was the case when TV stations across the U.S. ran a video clip of a Lakeland driver with his Cadillac on cruise control standing through his sunroof, arms spread wide as he motored down I-4. News anchors thought it was cute that he said he’d rather go to jail than back home to his wife. The jail comment sounded a lot less cute a day later when news broke that the 70-yearold was served a warrant for felony domestic violence after he was booked into Polk’s South County Jail.
A Lakeland rapper who goes by just his first name, Stephon, wasn’t sure how law enforcement would receive his video “Ducking Grady.” It shows him and a pal continually evading two goofy sheriff’s deputies pursuing them. Stephon needn’t have worried. It turns out that Sheriff Judd loved the song and video — especially because it shows the deputies getting their prey in the end. “While I’m not a fan of anyone running from our deputies, I am a fan of ‘Ducking Grady,’” the sheriff said on Facebook. A share on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page made the video a local hit.
DEVELOPERS PLAN MORE RESIDENCES, SHOPS FOR DOWNTOWN
THE FUTURE OF DOWNTOWN GARAGES IS GETTING CLEARER
HOMEGOODS COMING TO SOUTH LAKELAND, BUILDING RECORDS SHOW
Two developers have big plans to place multi-family residences and shops on three downtown blocks, but both plans rely on buying land from the city. In one project, developer Gregory Fancelli already owns much of the two blocks along Massachusetts Avenue just north of the police station, and he is negotiating with the city for a half-block he still needs. In the other project, Tampa’s Catalyst Asset Management is making its case this month for why it should be allowed to buy the Oak Street parking lot and turn it into apartment, stores and a parking garage.
For years, people talked about the need for parking garages downtown, but the question was where to put them. That question seems settled. Construction has begun on the Heritage Plaza parking garage two blocks west of City Hall. Now, the city is planning to hire consultants to begin the process of placing another garage on top of the surface lot behind the Lakeland Police Department headquarters. The consultant would draft documents to solicit proposals from developers next year or the year after. The aim: a 1,200-space garage in a place that now parks 202 vehicles.
Birth announcements heralded the arrival of the first black-necked swan incubated in Lakeland in six years. Five weeks later in mid-May, the cygnet was ready to be introduced to Lake Morton via a swan pen at the south end of the lake. Hours later, the baby couldn’t be found. At first, human vandals were suspected, but police could find no sign of foul play. Boats and divers were dispatched to look for an escaped swanling; they returned empty-handed. Did a predator penetrate the pen? We may never know.
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HomeGoods, an off-price home-furnishings store from the people behind T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s, is said to be building its first Polk County location. The 21,000-square-foot store would be next to the upcoming GreenWise Market across South Florida Avenue from the Lake Miriam Publix store. While Polk County building records identify the building as a future HomeGoods store, neither HomeGoods nor Publix Super Markets, which is developing the center, have confirmed what is going into the space.
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For a list of all of our events visit
www.swanbrewing.com/events 115 W. Pine St, Lakeland • (863) 703-0472 9
LAKELAND TOP 10 1
LAKELAND TROPICS
USL League Two outdoor soccer, 4 games in June played at Bryant Stadium in Lakeland part of the eight-team southeastern division. For more information, including ticket information, go to lakelandtropics.com, or call (863)-605-4131.
PACK THE PARK WITH THE LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS
June 8, 6pm at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium. Fans are encouraged to bring items to donate to Kidspack. For tickets call the BayCare Box office at (863)413-4140 or visit lkld.co/ pack for more information. KidsPACK is a non-profit organization dedicated to feeding disadvantaged children; giving them a backpack of nutritious food each Friday to sustain them on weekends.
PAUL FULLERTON: FORCES OF NATURE
BATTLE OF THE BADGES IV: LPD VS. PCSO
June 22-November 10 at Polk Museum of Art. He developed the molding and casting process that is characteristic of a large and important body of his work – the cast metal reliefs will be on view in the Polk Museum of Art Sculpture Garden this summer and fall. (863) 688-7743 polkmuseumofart.org
June 1, 3-5pm at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium. Polk County Sheriff’s Office looks to defend their title of Softball Champion against the Lakeland Police Department. Proceeds from the sale of game jerseys will benefit the corresponding foundations of the LPD and PCSO. Must purchase ticket to June 1st Flying Tigers game to attend Battle of the Badges softball game. www.milb. com/lakeland (863) 686-8075
HAUS MRKT SUMMER
DISNEY’S SLEEPING BEAUTY KIDS
June 14, 5:30-9pm at Haus 820. Shop your favorite local vendors! Food Trucks will include Mr. C’s Grilled Cheese, Cocktails crafted by Cob & Pen and Music provided by DJ Cory Barron & Co. haus820.com
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June 14, 15 & 16 at Lakeland Community Theatre. Based on one of the most treasured Disney animated films of all time, and featuring some of the world’s most memorable songs, Disney’s Sleeping Beauty KIDS is pure, delightful fun for the entire family. (863) 603-7529 lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
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3-6 LAKELAND ART GUILD EXHIBITION
June 3-6 at the Melvin and Burks Galleries. Founded in 1952, the Lakeland Art Guild is the oldest local community arts organization in Polk County. Visit the final days of works created by local artists, both established and emerging. (863) 680-4111
PRIDE IN THE PARK June 15, 10am-3pm at Munn Park in Lakeland. A festival for the whole family! Live music, entertainment, vendors, community sponsors and food trucks. This is the fifth Pride in the Park event and will be the biggest yet. www.polkpridefl.com
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8 SUMMER SUNRISE WATERMELON 5K SERIES RACE #1
June 8, 7-10am hosted by the Lakeland Runners Club. The series is comprised of three 5K (3.1 mile) races, each race hotter than the last. All are run around Lake Hollingsworth, which is flat and conducive to fast times. Sign up at lakelandrunnersclub.org/
BREW HUB’S NIGHT MARKET
June 28, 6pm at Brew Hub. Features a rotating lineup of artists and makers selling handmade goods. This is a family-friendly event, enjoy your favorite beer, food, and shop under the stars! brewhub.com
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summer special moments
MAKE IT A OF
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HAMMOCK HOLLOW CHILDREN’S GARDEN Reflecting the art and spirit of Bok Tower Gardens, Hammock Hollow incorporates cooling water features, vibrant plantings, a boardwalk, play areas with climbing features, a stage for little performers, and plenty of space to build, dig, create and explore.
BECOME A MEMBER Family membership starts at $100
1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG
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ORLANDO TOP 10 1 RED SHIRT PRIDE DAY WATERCOLOR CLASS
BITE30 Presented by Publix Aprons Cooking School, this is Orlando’s 30-Day Restaurant Week, featuring the best restaurants and chefs driving Orlando’s culinary scene. Each restaurant will feature special three-course prix fixe menus for $30. Post your Instagram pics with #bite30 to win fabulous prizes! Visit bite30.com for more info.
Thursdays at 3:30pm at Massimo Art Gallery, 11062 International Dr S., Orlando. Learn step by step techniques, tips and tricks in watercolor, illustrated through short demos, to complete a painting. Learn how to enhance your paintings with other mediums. No drawing experience required. Beginners welcome. 2-hour class, $30. (407) 350-9218 www.massimogallery.com
FLORENCE + THE MACHINE
INDOOR FARMERS MARKET
June 8, 7:30pm at the Amway Center. The band plays “Moderation” and “Haunted House.” Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats join the tour as special guests. www.amwaycenter.com
June 9, noon-4pm at Celine Orlando, 22 S. Magnolia Ave. Shop fresh produce and meats from 100% local growers, eat lunches and snacks, discover new brands and products & indoor bar. One day only, stroller, kid & dog friendly. Free admission.
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June 1 at Magic Kingdom. Join fellow LGBT+ and allies showcasing solidarity and compassion for worldwide kindness and empathy. This annual tradition invites you to wear a red shirt, inspired by the original 30 or 40 people with “kindred spirits” that bravely met at Magic Kingdom back in 1991. This social gathering has grown to become one of the longest running, most iconic events in LGBT+ history. kindredpride.org.
7 MOVIE NIGHT AT THE LEU: THE QUIET PLACE June 7 at 6pm. Bring dinner and seating. Alcohol is permitted. Under 13 years of age requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. Curbie’s Sidewalk Cafe will be selling food and Peak Season Pops will be selling popsicles and popcorn. www.leugardens.org
8 WINTER GARDEN SUMMER SIDEWALK SALE June 8 at 11am-7pm. Stroll and shop the sale racks and tables on the sidewalks in historic Downtown Winter Garden. Enter free raffles at select merchants, live music and a free Children’s Art Project hosted by the Winter Garden Art Association at SOBO Art Gallery.
“EASY TO LOVE”
DINING IN THE DARK
YOUTH PRIDE PROM
June 16, 2-4pm at Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E Central Blvd, Orlando. Esther Williams water skis and swims to Busby Berkeley’s aquatic choreography at fabulous Cypress Gardens in its prime, 1953. The SunScreens Sunday matinees feature films linked to Florida. They supply the popcorn, along with fascinating facts about each film. $8. (407) 836-8500
June 20, 6-9pm at the Second Harvest Food Bank, 411 Mercy Dr. in Orlando. Celebrate Lighthouse Central Florida and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s summer programs for children. Dining in the Dark is a unique sensory experience like no other! Guests will enter a world of aroma, taste, sound, & texture in total darkness! Purchase tickets at lighthousecfl.org
June 22, 6-10pm at the Orlando Museum of Art. The prom is open to LGBTQ+ youth ages 14-20 dress code is semi-formal to formal and all forms of gender expression are welcomed. Featuring: Dancing, Drag Performances and Art Exhibits! More info at www.zebrayouth.org
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TAMPA TOP 10 1 1 ROSÉ BY THE BAY BUSCH GARDENS SUMMER NIGHTS Through August 11, open until 10pm. Explore the park after dark with themed party zones throughout the park and take on Florida’s top thrill rides in the dark. buschgardens.com
OPENING DAY OF “VISUAL MAGIC: DALI’S MASTERWORKS IN AR”
June 1, 6:30-9:30pm at the Station House in St. Pete. Welcome the summer with friends while enjoying views of the downtown skyline from Station House’s outdoor rooftop deck. Sip a wide variety of rosé wine & enjoy hors d’oeuvres from Ichicoro Ane. Tickets are limited, stationhousestpete.com
6TH ANNUAL GELATIN PLUNGE
June 15, 10am-5:30pm at the Dali Museum. This special exhibition uses burgeoning augmented reality (AR) technology to engage visitors while highlighting The Dali’s complete collection of its popular, “Masterworks.” Museum visitors have an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning behind these Salvador Dali works. thedali.org
June 16, 7-11pm at 4901 W. Cypress St. in Tampa. Plummet down a slide on a warm summer night into a pool filled with 2,000+ gallons of orange gelatin. Enjoy live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and family-fun activities. Create a fundraising page at www.GelatinPlunge.com to raise funds which will go toward various programs and services provided by the Children’s Cancer Center.
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HAPPY TOGETHER TOUR June 1 at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Starring The Turtles, Chuck Negron, Gary Puckett & the Union Gap, The Buckinghams & more featuring the soundtrack of the 60’s and 70’s! Arrive early for the Marketplace featuring Performers, Specialty Vendors, the Vintage Vinyl Vault, 70’s Car Show, food for purchase and more! www.rutheckerdhall.com
13-23 TAMPA BAY RESTAURANT WEEK June 13-23. For a limited time, participating Tampa Bay area restaurants will be offering multiple-course prix fixe menus (and additional menu offerings— like drink specials and more) at exclusive pricing. Just ask for the TB Restaurant Week menu. tampabayrestaurantweek.com
ROB LOWE STORIES I ONLY TELL MY FRIENDS LIVE!
THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE WARRIOR GAMES
June 21 at the Straz Center. Inspired by the success of his two New York Times best-selling memoirs, Stories I Only Tell My Friends and Love Life, Rob has created an all-new peek behind the curtain at Hollywood, fame, fatherhood, marriage and a life lived at the forefront of culture for four decades. strazcenter.org
June 21-30. Created in 2010 to introduce wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans to Paralympic-style sports. The Warrior Games showcase the resilient spirit of today’s wounded, ill or injured service members from all branches of the military from all over the country. U.S. Special Operations Command, 333 S Franklin St., Tampa. dodwarriorgames.com
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ONE ACT WEEKEND June 28-30 at 4333 Gunn Highway in Tampa. 8 original never-before-seen-in-Florida short plays performed by the Carrollwood Players. (813) 265-4000 or email info@ carrollwoodplayers.org for more info. $15 general admission. Visit carrollwoodplayers.org
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Your Community Theater: All are WELCOME WORDS Dan Chesnicka
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As we gear up to celebrate Pride Month here in Polk County, I can’t help but think about how lucky I am to have spent a good portion of my life volunteering and working in a theater.
I am proud that we continue to be a safe place for members of the LBGTQ community. Especially for young gay people throughout Polk County. It warms my heart to see the unlikely friendships that are built on our stage and know that these kids are learning the same lessons that I learned as a kid in a theater. I am equally proud that we have role models for these kids who have unimpeachable character, warm and kind hearts, and would walk through fire to protect them. Many of these role models happen to be gay.
I am the Producing Director at Theatre Winter Haven, but the first play I ever did was a production of THE KING AND I at age 5. Most of my life has been informed by the values I learned in a dark theater. Because I was a theater kid, I have been blessed to know and love members of the LBGTQ community long before I knew how to shave.
For those times one needs an escape from the harsh realities of the world, theater offers an opportunity to pretend to be someone else and somewhere else every single day. We get to create worlds that are free from prejudice and full of grand adventure. Within our walls and on our stage we get to drop our labels and be whoever the script dictates we be. For a few hours each day, we get to leave the outside world behind.
One of the lessons I learned is that a theater is a safe place for those who society hasn’t always embraced. I learned that people I loved and admired inside the theater could be victimized outside of it, just for being who they are. I wish the whole world could be more like a community theater. Because theater, especially community theater, is the one place in the world where being different, being weird, being strange is considered an asset instead of a reason to be bullied or ridiculed.
The fact is, Community Theater is a place where people who are not yet comfortable in their skin can find a home as easily as those who have already learned to celebrate what makes them different.
The people I work with are wonderfully odd, magically bizarre, and absolutely march to the beat of their own drummer… (but we ALWAYS clap on the 2 and 4… we are weirdos, not barbarians). In Community Theater, we don’t care about race, sexual orientation or identification, if someone is on the spectrum, or even your age. ART transcends all that other stuff.
In theater, we love people to be unique. No one ever got a starring role by being just like everyone else at an audition. Part of the job description for an artist – especially an actor – is standing out, and that doesn’t happen by fitting in. We admire the differences in each other and, in time, those who struggle with who they are realize that’s what makes them unique also makes them great – both as actors and as humans.
HECK, we don’t even care if you can act, sing, or dance – because there are a hundred other ways to be part of our community. Sets need to be built, costumes need to be made, tickets need to be sold, and patrons need to be seated. There is something for everyone. Community Theater is a safe place, especially for those who don’t fit in easily.
The best part about community theater is that, not only are we welcoming and accepting, we are an antidote to loneliness. There are some problems in our world that are too big and too complex to comprehend. But if isolation and loneliness are part of those problems – then more people need to find a community theater and play with us. I promise there is a friend somewhere in the wings of a theater – and that friend won’t care if you are gay or not. I invite all members of the LBGTQ community to come and work with us. I am sure you will find a welcoming home.
We are a band of misfits. All are WELCOME. In fact, theater has ALWAYS been the home of the disenfranchised, the outcasts, the marginalized. Theater has ALWAYS been an island of acceptance in a frequently cruel world. And the world has often been disproportionately cruel to members of the LBGTQ community. The first Community Theaters were in ancient Greece. And, like the community theaters of today, they attracted the quirky, the different, and those who lived outside the mainstream. The comedies of ancient Greece championed the underserved… the butt of the jokes were always the rich and famous and powerful. At the same time, they celebrated those who were, well, fabulous. Long before there was a RuPaul’s Drag Race, Greek comedies were exploring nuances of gender roles and homosexuality. Then, like now, the theater welcomed and embraced the gay community. I think it takes a similar type of courage to be openly gay or transexual as it does to be successful in theater. There is a fearlessness to embracing one’s true self and being comfortable with that. I contend it is that same brand of fearlessness that makes one shine on stage. The charge of a Community Theater is more than just putting together pieces of entertainment. Our higher purpose is to make our communities better places to live, to work, and to play by making our citizens – especially our underserved citizens – the focus of everything we do. We are black, we are white, we are gay, we are straight, we are Christian and not; we are young and old we are liberal and conservative and we couldn’t be more eclectic or different. But we are a family. We genuinely care and love one another. THE TRADITION CONTINUES AT THEATRE WINTER HAVEN. The world is a different (and better) place than it was when I was a kid, but we still have a lot of work to do.
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield June is LGBT Pride Month – a time to celebrate and support our fellow humans for who they are and whom they love. Not just in June, but every day let us celebrate love in every form for all that it brings to the world. Love is support, love is recognition, love is pride in yourself and others, love is a kind word, love is acceptance, love is community, love is affirmation, and to quote Lin-Manuel Miranda, “Love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love.”
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Polk Pride will hold its Pride festivities June 8 through 15 to celebrate the LGBTQ community. Polk Pride alongside LYA and PFLAG of Polk County have made it their mission to be a resource for local LGBTQ individuals, a community with open arms, and to provide them a “safe and supportive environment.” We spoke with members from the Polk Pride Board to discuss their initiatives, goals, and community impact.
Why Polk Needs Pride The positive impact Polk Pride, PFLAG of Polk County, and LYA have on LGBTQ youth and underserved members within Polk County truly reaches somewhere over the rainbow and contributes to an overall more successful community. “As I reflect in the past years of our events, the sole thing that I think moves and motivates all of us, especially in an area like central Florida is to see the safe space that gets created for the youth,” said Dustin Shay. “They sometimes don’t have an outlet for who they are as an individual, for who they want to love, sometimes those things feel a little sheltered for all kids, but even more so for LGBTQ kids.” He encourages LGBTQ youth and allies to get involved. “For them to be involved is drastically important, not just for them but for the future of our group because they are going to be our future leaders, coworkers, business owners, and to instill something like that in them at this age within this critical time is great, and that’s why we do it.” To support any of these three organizations, you can become a sponsor, volunteer, donate, join their initiatives or simply like and share their social media. “More importantly than that,” said Shay, “we need the development of the idea. We need people to be participating, we need people to come out, we need people to show support. It’s the message really that we’re trying to flourish through the community.”
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Prior to the inception of Polk Pride, LYA (Lakeland Youth Alliance) and PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) of Polk County were strong resources for LGBTQ individuals and their families. An executive board member of Polk Pride, Dustin Shay explained that Kristine Lally, now president of LYA, and Scott Guira, founder of Polk Pride, both previously sat on the LYA board. From their perspective working with youth, they had a vision of something that kept young people from having to travel to Tampa or Orlando for LGBTQ activities. With this vision in mind, Guira launched Polk Pride in 2014, with their inaugural event the following year. “He came to a few close people that he thought would be proactive, smart, hardworking, beneficial, already involved in the community and kind of pieced together a little team – and we were all on board,” said Shay. Polk Pride is now made up of six Executive Board Members: Scott Guira, Kerri McCoy, Kristine Lally, Patrick Patterson, Dustin Shay, and Nick Sotolongo. Polk Pride, LYA, and PFLAG of Polk County aren’t formally affiliated, but do share resources and work together to put on Pride. “It’s easier for us to pool resources whether it’s events, communications, marketing, social media. We kind of share across these different platforms so we have maximum reach with the same message,” said Shay. This year, the multi-day Pride festival will include the Pride Launch Party on June 8, Pride for Youth on June 12, Pride in Faith on June 13, Pride Kickoff Cocktail Party on June 14, and Pride in the Park on June 15. Up to 5000 people and around 100 vendors attend their free, family-friendly anchor event, Pride in the Park. “This isn’t a festival just for LGBTQ. We have businesses, allies, family, friends. It is a Pride, but it’s so much more than that,” said Shay. “It’s really about celebration.” The concerted efforts and reach of the three organizations span beyond Pride week. “We found that having PFLAG, LYA and Pride served an area of our community that had not yet been served through other resources – essentially, that’s why it’s here. That’s why it’s valuable,” said Shay.
A chapter of the Orlando Youth Alliance, LYA started in 2008. Current LYA president, Kristine Lally discussed what drew her to the organization as an ally of the LGBTQ community. “I grew up in this county and saw many friends kicked out of their homes and treated horribly by their families, I wanted to do all I could to support the LGBT youth in Polk County,” said Lally. Lally went on to voice their mission which is shared with their parent organization OYA, “To provide a nonexploitative, safe, drug and alcohol-free, social outlet for youth ages 13 to 20 who are grappling with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning issues. / To be proudly diverse by opening membership to youth without regard to sexual orientation, gender, religion, race or background. / To serve as an educational and referral service for LGBTQ youth of Central Florida. / To educate parents, academia, health care workers and other human service professionals about the development and diversity of sexuality and sensitize them to the reality and needs of the LGBTQ community. / To facilitate in the development of the LGBTQ youth and to empower them to become leaders in the community.” Along with monthly support meetings and special activities, LYA holds an annual Prom event and are included in the Polk Pride events in June. Lally shared LYA’s vision for the future, saying, “Our long term vision is to continue our growth as a resource and advocate to LGBTQ and ally youth within the local school systems. We have a goal to be a single source advocacy group for the community of students and educators within Polk County.” A step towards this goal, the Polk County School Board has approved their Pride week proclamation for the past two years, with 2019 being the third. Any LGBTQ youth or ally that would like to get involved with LYA can go through their social media or website listed below. Help spread the word! Lally concluded, “We want to be a common thought for those who need the support we offer.”
An ultimate goal of Polk Pride, according to Shay, is to have something larger than a festival format. “In a perfect vision, we’d love to have a Lakeland Pride parade or even a larger venue than what we have now at Munn Park,” he said. Pride events are seasonal, happening only in June, but Polk Pride has monthly board meetings and hosts networking and social events throughout the year. In the 2019-2020 year, the group also plans to open some of their meetings in what Shay described as a “town hall format.” In these meetings, Dustin said, “We’re going to invite community individuals to come to some of our board meetings which will offer some delegation of volunteer opportunities.” He added, “While the executive board will still maintain the direction and the vision of the process, we’re going to start involving a little bit more in hopes that we will eventually develop future board members.”
For 25 years, the Polk County chapter of the national group, PFLAG has been a support group for anyone in the community with an LGBTQ family member or friend. The group is there to help answer questions, show support, and offer resources to these families. Shay remarked, “Sometimes the process for the youth or the individual coming out is their own struggle but it’s also a completely different struggle for the parent or the friend or family member – so we provide a lot of materials for that.” PFLAG of Polk County president, Kerri McCoy found out about the group through her aunt who is a lesbian. When McCoy’s son came out in high school, her aunt suggested she get involved with the group. McCoy had no qualms about her son being gay, she fully supported him. “I don’t understand, I don’t need support,” she told her aunt. Her aunt replied, “No, so you can help others.” After three years of working with the group, McCoy became its president. “When people come to us and they do need help, we can provide them with websites to go to, we have a list of counselors that are LGBTQ-friendly that can help them, if it’s a religious issue, we have several pastors and churches that we can point them to, doctors for anybody who may be transgender,” McCoy explained. The group has monthly support meetings and are also a part of Pride week. To find out more about PFLAG, information about attending a meeting, or to get involved, check out their website and social media listed below. Polk Pride See their website for a full list of dates and times of Polk Pride 2019 events. www.polkpridefl.com FB: @PolkPrideFL IG: @polkpridefl LYA lakelandyouthalliance.org FB: @LakelandYouthAlliance IG: @oya_cfl PFLAG of Polk County pflagofpolkcounty.org FB: @PFLAGofPolkCounty
“All young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.” - Harvey Milk
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Lisa Pierson Emanuel
Strangely Dark: Oddities & Curiosities Market Curiosities Market, on Facebook @Iloveleftovers, or at her Etsy shop of the same name.
Unique Treasures and Oddities Davenport artist and taxidermist, Debi Wood brings a little humor to the macabre with her shop, Unique Treasures and Oddities. Making and selling corsets at conventions and markets led to her discovery of and fascination with taxidermy. Debi was so enthralled that she set out to learn how to do it herself through the internet and by networking with other taxidermists doing similar work. She turned her new-found talent of cleaning skulls, taxidermy, and freeze-drying into her own brand of art marrying the morbid with the comical. She found that there was a niche for her unusual creations. “I started dressing my chicks and ducks in funny little costumes. I like to use humor,” said Debi. Some of her animals receive names and personalities. She has crafted such characters as a skunk dubbed “Skunk Daddy” with a top hat, cane, and clock chain around his neck (because he’s a fan of Flavor Flav), a risqué chick on a pole which she called a “Chicken Strip,” a “Biker Chick” with a leather jacket and tiny motorcycle, a gangster piranha named Frank with a hat, cigar, playing cards, dice, and a mini bottle of booze, and an 18-inch-tall Game of Thrones-themed weasel named Little Finger, complete with fur coat, sword in hand, and amulet around his neck – just to name a few. Death is a part of what she does, but there’s nothing that dark about it. “I try to memorialize the animals and make it light-hearted,” said Debi. “I try to keep it whimsical and respectful to the lives of all these animals that live amongst us.” “I’ve always sewn a lot,” remarked Debi. This is a large part of her crafting now too. She practices soft taxidermy in which she tans, stuffs, and stitches the animal together. A skull is put into the head with the tanned face then stitched over it. She uses wire and dowels throughout the body instead of a hard form so that she’s able to stance them how she’d like. Beyond that, she makes their tiny clothing as well. “They don’t sell a lot of chick and duck clothing,” she laughed. You’ll also likely find a Barbie accessory here or there to bring the animal to life (excuse the pun). Look out lovers of all things curious and creepy, the Strangely Dark: Oddities and Curiosities Market is coming to Lakeland Square Mall June 8 and 9. This event will kick off a three-market series by Specialty Pop-up Events before moving on to Sanford in July and Melbourne in August. Specialty Pop-up Events puts on one-of-a-kind events across the state. According to owner Jason, vendors will sometimes call to be a part of a pop-up with products that are a little too unique or odd for the theme of other markets. “Curiosities and Oddities is an event built for these kinds of unique products like snake skins and skulls and bones, and wizardry,” explained Jason. Around 30 vendors will have their wares on display including punk, dark arts, taxidermy, wizardry, gothic art, indie, alongside other oddities and curiosities. Jason says attendees can expect, “Cool vendors, unique products, and items they’ve never seen before.” If you are an oddities vendor that would like to participate in the market or have any questions, check out their Facebook event page, or email Specialtypopupevents@gmail.com.
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I Love Leftovers One such unique vendor to see at the market is Lisa Pierson Emanuel and her shop, I Love Leftovers. Based out of Fernandina Beach, Lisa started her business by re-purposing and upcycling items like old windows and adorning purses with silverware handles. After working on an assemblage that required a doll arm, her line of doll part creations took off. These delightfully creepy works of art are a notable part of Lisa’s inventory, but she also creates other one-of-a-kind oddities like jewelry made with pieces from family game night classics like Clue and Monopoly. The artist discussed her creative process, noting that much of the sourcing for her projects are done at thrift stores. Often, Lisa will see an item and know she wants to make something with it. She’ll purchase it and let the idea come to her at its will. One example is an old music box with a broken ballerina. She bought it, and let it sit in her craft room until one morning the idea came to her. “I decoupaged over the outside, and I added doll arms with the head in the hands and now it’s a creepy doll music box,” she said. Look for I Love Leftovers at the Strangely Dark: Oddities & 18
The taxidermist explained that the animals she uses are humanely obtained – chicks that die naturally at chicken farms, bats from a historic church in St. Augustine with a bat problem, roadkill, and cat skulls that come from a cat rescue. When cats pass away naturally at the rescue, they clean and sell the skulls to bring in funds to support the rescue efforts. Dog skulls, shark jaws, rabbit feet, and dinosaur teeth are only a few of her other offerings. Look for Unique Treasures and Oddities at the Strangely Dark: Oddities & Curiosities Market or on Facebook @UniqueTreasuresandoddities. “I always tell people that this is what happens when you’re an old lady and you don’t know how to crochet,” joked Debi. To which, I’d argue that this is much cooler. Strangely Dark: Oddities & Curiosities Market Lakeland Square Mall 3800 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland, FL 33809 June 8 10am - 6pm June 9 12pm - 6pm FB Event @ Strangely Dark: Oddities & Curiosities Market FB: @specialtypopup
Flashback Female: Women Artists in the 1980s and 1990s From the Permanent Collection Part I Q & A with Dr. Alex Rich, Curator and Director of Galleries & Exhibitions at Polk Museum of Art artist that was made in either the 1980s or 1990s. Paring them down to a list of fewer than fifty was no easy task, but we really wanted to select those that stood out for some reason or another. We also wanted to show a variety of styles and media. I am a big fan of Alice Neel, so we are featuring two of her works in the exhibition. One of the pieces by Neel (Portrait of the Artist Edward Avedesian, 1981) has never been on display for the public before, as it has remained unframed since the time of its acquisition in 2004. We finally framed it — and a few other pieces that have stayed unframed in a drawer for years — and can exhibit it now and into the future. Seeing that work by Neel in a frame and exhibitable is the highlight of putting the show together so far. I have been trying for years to include it in an exhibition!
What do you hope viewers take away from the exhibit? I hope more than anything else that viewers will get a good glimpse at how much of an asset female artists have been to art history and to the art world. Male artists have dominated museum shows and collections for as long as there have been museums, and we hope that Polk Museum visitors will come to realize that “women’s” art is undefinable in any all-encompassing way. We can, should, and do show female artists regularly alongside male artists without having to distinguish or take note of one work’s apparent “femininity” from another’s “masculinity.” Stylistically, “women’s” artwork is not by nature any different from “men’s” art, but many female artists do explore themes that importantly echo their unique experiences. And giving female artists showcases of their own is very worthwhile simply for the reason that the works are indeed made by women, even if the artwork makes no obvious nods to its artist’s sex or gender.
The information about it online said that it “highlights the important contributions and strides female artists made in the art worlds of the 1980s and 1990s.” Can you further explain examples of these contributions and why these two decades were important for female artists?
What was the general concept and inspiration behind the exhibition? The inspiration for this two-part exhibition stems from the sad reality that female artists have been — and continue to be — drastically underrepresented in exhibitions and collections in museums worldwide, including our own. In keeping with the Museum’s long tradition of featuring and collecting art by women, however, it is important to keep highlighting art by women and to increase the numbers of exhibitions like these as showcases for female artists.
It is a two-part exhibit? Please explain. When will the second part be on display and is there a thematic difference? It is a two-part exhibition, one focused on art of the 1980s and one on art of the 1990s. The two installations will be on display concurrently in adjacent galleries, which should make for a nice juxtaposition between the two decades and what the artists we have selected were working on over the course of twenty years. The 1980s installation will run a few weeks longer, to the end of August, as we will be installing another show in the gallery housing the 1990s portion at the start of August.
Who are some of the artists featured?
Any decade when we can focus on the contributions of women artists is important. Any strides women have made in any era in the art world have been notable, when we look at what they were up against. These two decades — the 80s and the 90s, in particular — are especially important for several reasons, in addition to their being relatively recent. Foremost among those reasons: the 80s and 90s come post-women’s liberation, when female artists have greater ability to express themselves more freely and unapologetically, and the two decades come at a time when art was becoming more and more of a commodity with the establishment of a real modern art market with high values and name recognition placed upon the work of male artists. That these works by women were collected by museums like ours speaks volumes in itself.
We have a great mix of familiar and less familiar names in the exhibition. Among the best known are Judy Chicago, Lorna Simpson, Miriam Schapiro, Faith Ringgold, and Alice Neel. The wonderful part about a show like this, which surveys a wide swath of artwork from these two decades, is the chance for visitors to see the work of artists they may already associate with the period but also to discover new artists of whom they may not have heard before.
Flashback Female: Women Artists in the 1980s & 1990s From the Permanent Collection Part I Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland, FL 33801 Perkins Gallery and Gallery II Exhibition from June 1 – August 3 polkmuseumofart.org FB: @PolkMuseum IG: @polkmuseumofart
How many artists and how many works will be on display? We will be exhibiting the work of nearly fifty female artists from our permanent collection, with a few of the artists represented by several works.
Are there any that particularly stand out to you? Why? I have so many favorites! It is nearly impossible to choose. In selecting objects for these two exhibitions, though, we went through every work in our collection by a female
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Jordan Weiland Photography
“At the End of the Day” On the night of the Oscars in 2014, Lakeland resident Kevin O’Brien made a personal goal to write and produce a full-length feature film. That night, he bought a website domain and wrote a blog post committing to do something every day to bring him closer to his goal. The product of that initial dream, a movie titled, “At the End of the Day,” has become a piece of a larger conversation surrounding the LGBTQ and Christian communities.
“Both of us were so heartbroken at the end of that documentary. It struck me in a way that I hadn’t been before,” said O’Brien. The rejection that many of the individuals faced in the documentary really spoke to him. That night, he told his wife that he didn’t know what the story would be yet, but that he was sure this was the conflict he wanted to explore in his film.
The film featuring Stephen Shane Martin, Danielle Sagona, Tom Nowicki, Chris Cavalier, and Susan Steele Mulholland, follows 30-something Dave Hopper who has just lost his wife and counseling practice. He lands a position as a part-time professor at his Christian college alma mater. Conflict ensues when the dean of the college wants to develop a piece of property that was left to an LGBTQ support group. The support group want to open an LGBTQ homeless teen shelter if they can raise the money for the property in time. At the dean’s behest, Hopper goes undercover as a gay man in the group in an attempt to halt their progress. “The awkward and emotional experiences that follow lead Dave on a journey of truth, revealing that life and love are not as black and white as he first thought,” reads the film’s synopsis.
Making the Movie He landed on the storyline in the summer of 2014 and spent 3 to 4 months outlining it. He shut himself away in a lake house for three weeks and wrote the movie. He came back from writing, launched a website, began raising funds for the project and sought out feedback on his script. It was filmed in the early months of 2017 and premiered in June of 2018. Throughout the making the film, O’Brien and his family immersed themselves in the local LGBTQ community, joining PFLAG of Polk County. “They really kind of became our family,” he said.
Since its premiere in the summer of 2018, “At the End of the Day” has received acclaim from film festivals globally.
With this new found family beside them and the support of the Lakeland community, “At the End of the Day” came to life. “We were blown away on the big scale of Lakeland and how much support there was for the movie,” said O’Brien. In support of the movie and its message, people allowed them to use filming locations for free and a whole team of people donated food every day for the cast and crew, along with others donating time and energy to the film in different ways.
About the Writer/ Director O’Brien moved to Lakeland from Virginia to attend college at Southeastern University. Growing up in the Assembly of God church is part of the reason O’Brien attended the university – to become a youth pastor. He described church as a big part of his life, reflecting on his previous career path, “Looking back on it now, I think that was the only option I could see for my life.”
Around 700 people turned up for the one-night premiere of “At the End of the Day” at Polk Theatre. “It was probably the most magical night of a screening that I’ll ever experience,” he recalled.
He found filmmaking in his 30’s. Until that point, he wasn’t aware that filmmaking could be a viable career option. He joked, “Movies were just this magical thing that happened somewhere else and showed up at Blockbuster.” He fell in love with making movies and knew that was what he wanted to do with his life. For the last ten years, he’s been taking steps to make it his full-time profession. For the last 8 of those years, O’Brien has been making some 150 plus short films with his company Journey Box Media.
Joining the Conversation Seeing the film from conception to the big screen was a significant personal accomplishment for O’Brien. “I forget that. If you asked me ten years ago, I would have never imagined that I would have a movie – that I made, wrote, directed, and produced.”
A Change of Perspective
Aside from his personal filmmaking dreams, O’Brien wanted to join the ongoing conversation that led to his own reformation. “I don’t think any one story, any one thing like this will do it for anybody. It’s years of ideas and relationships, thoughts and questions and then maybe something catalyzes that,” he said. He continued, “That’s definitely what I wanted to do in the movie was show the story of someone whose ideas about the world shifted and allowed people to ask the questions that they can’t.”
Through his twenties and thirties, O’Brien began reevaluating his religious and political stances. Relationships he and his wife had formed within the community and the process of adopting their three children were catalysts for this reassessment of his views. On the adoption process, the father of three said, “The whole experience educated us so much on the world we live in and people in our own backyard, how our society works and functions, and misconceptions we had.” He continued, “As they were getting to ages where we’d want to explain things to them and talk about faith and life and what matters – we thought, ‘What do we even believe and why do we believe this?’” Around the same time, he and his wife were friends with a newly engaged lesbian couple at their church. The O’Briens knew they wanted to celebrate their friends and struggled with why their religion historically wasn’t affirming of their love. This, coupled with viewing “For the Bible Tells Me So,” a documentary following five families with openly LGBTQ kids, evaluating the homophobic stance of the conservative Christian church and how these families are affected, added to the shift in O’Brien’s thinking.
To watch the movie or host a screening, check out the website, www.endofthedayfilm.com, where you can also find a podcast of the same name continuing the Christian/ LGBTQ conversation. “At the End of the Day” endofthedayfilm.com FB: @endofthedayfilm IG: @endofthedayfilm
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JUN 15 | 5:00 P.M.
FREE TO
RIDE
Info @ FB.com/slowrollskishow
SATURDAY
Meet at the Bike Shop of Winter Haven | 249 3rd St SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880 | (863) 299-9907
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Aperol Spritz 3 ounces Prosecco 2 ounces Aperol 1 ounce Club Soda Orange slice for garnish Add all ingredients over ice and garnish with orange slice! 21+ Please drink responsibly.
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WORDS & PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Happy 10th Anniversary, Frescos! Starters
Entrées
What began as a small sandwich shop and catering business 10 years ago, has grown into a beloved Lakeland standard. We all love it, we meet our friends there, have first dates there, stop for a drink and share a snack or slow down with brunch and mimosas. It’s a local favorite that’s celebrating 10 years, so we sat down with owner and chef, Tina Calhoon to hear how it all began.
Wanting to be more in the background when Frescos opened, Tina took over the kitchen. “I’m not culinarily trained, I’ve just learned over the years how to cook. I do everything from Ethiopian to Indian to Latin food, straight from scratch. Over the years of being able to be very diverse with the stuff that we do, it gives us the ability to really open up and play with a lot of different things.” She explained that in the restaurant’s beginning, they continued to grow and along with that could change the “vibe” along the way. “It’s always been Frescos but it kind of kept growing. Starting as more of a sandwich shop to offering dinners with beer and wine for a couple of years.” After adding even more space, they took on a full liquor license and then everything changed.
Tina Calhoon was born in Jacksonville and knows the restaurant business inside and out. “I’ve been in the restaurant industry since I was 16, so I’ve got years of experience and a background with it all. I opened my first one at 21, it was a hotel restaurant, bar and catering facility for 350 people. I got started early and I had a three-month old on my hip the whole time,“ she said with a big smile and a hearty laugh. With several restaurants going at the same time in Little Rock, she soon found herself a single mom. Tina made the move back to Florida and into the corporate world of restaurants at a Bennigans. Tina’s biggest supporter is her husband, Tim Calhoon. They started Frescos because his company was going through a major downsizing 10 years ago. “We were in Lakeland, what would he do after being at the same job for 28 years? The only thing I know is restaurants. I knew we can get it going and get it going good,” she said. And that they did! The restaurant has grown in size almost every year since. Tim works at another job 40 hours a week and then works at the restaurant another 40 hours. With both of them pulling 16-hour days, you can see the love and passion they have for Frescos and for the people of Lakeland. “In all actuality, we were never planning on growing to the size that we are. Now, the restaurant has just gotten astronomical and the catering side has gotten astronomical.” Tina went on to explain they have three banquet rooms onsite, full catering off site for both private and corporate clients and she’s a private chef for clients when they’re in town. They know how to stay busy!
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“We were the first boutique restaurant in Lakeland. We were trying to be everything to everybody. So the first seven or eight years we did everything like Asian, Latin, Cuban, it was a very diverse menu to try and take care of the needs of all the guests,” she said. Over the last couple of years, with the explosion of restaurants in Lakeland, they’ve been able to get back to their comfort zone. “Southern Boutique, it’s where my passion is really at. When we switched to more of a southern kitchen a couple of years ago, it worked out because Lakeland was growing and new restaurants were popping up,” she said now they could focus. “This is my niche, it’s my comfort zone. With that passion, the business grew rapidly,” she said with a smile. “I wanted it to be food that you grew up with, things that you remember as a child, like collard greens, black eyed peas, grouper. The layers of our dishes are complex so when you eat, you can remember back to a time when Mom would cook for you. You can remember sitting at the dining room table eating something like that.” Tina creates dishes thoughtfully, balancing sweet, salty and savory to give you an “explosion of flavors.” An example of this would be the popular Atlantic Seared Salmon. Tina described it as sweet, savory and creamy with the maple glazed salmon served over top of a roasted root vegetable hash and drizzled with a dijon cream sauce. The pork chops are also popular with pork belly cracklins, black eyed peas and a cornbread and andouille stuffing. Tina said, “It makes you feel at home.”
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There is one dish that has stayed on the menu for the entire 10 years. “It’s our Knuckle Sandwich. It’s like jambalaya on a hoagie bun! It’s chicken, kielbasa, onions, shrimp, smothered in cheese on a bun. We’ve never taken it off the menu, people would kill us, I think, if we did!” Over the last 10 years, what have they learned? “There are a lot of highs and lows when you own your own business.” Trying not to show the struggle was important, but now that they’re 10 years in and successful, it’s easier to vocalize the struggle that once was. Tina Reflected on the time they had to sell a vehicle to make payroll. They’ve gone through the trials and tribulations and know how hard it is to ask for help when you need it. She encourages an open door policy, “You can ask us anything, we’re always willing to help. That’s always been the biggest thing,” she explained. “We started out with five employees and now we have 45. Most people don’t realize the level of our staff. I still pull 16-hour days and we work seven days a week because of the supply and demand of our clients. They expect to have us here when they want us and that’s a good thing!”
Desserts To celebrate their 10th Anniversary, they pulled out all the stops for the guests. They gave out prizes, had specials like $10 flights, coupons for $10 off your tab and ten tables even walked away with the Frescos taking care of their tab. “We had giveaways thanking everyone for what they’ve done and for sticking with us for 10 years. Without the support of our clients, or the neighborhood and town, it’s very hard to succeed,” Tina said with a look of nostalgia in her eyes. 132 S. Kentucky Ave Lakeland, Fl 33801 863-683-5267 / Restaurant 863-608-1347 / Catering www.frescoslakeland.com FB @frescoslakeland
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
Dustin Shay Dustin Shay was born and raised around the Ocala area. He moved to Tampa to attend college at the University of South Florida and continued living in Tampa for quite a few years before making the move to Lakeland in 2005. Shay’s career brought him to the swan city to work for Rita Staffing where he worked for 13 years.
time and love into. “I would really love to continue the path that we’re on,” he said of Polk Pride. “I’d say a personal goal for me is to set Pride specifically as a stand-alone organization in the future that not only does events, but also has more community engagement – possibly a shelter, possibly an office.” Now 41, Dustin came out when he was 19 years old. He feels that his generation has seen the largest shift in diversity. He, of course, gave a nod to the generations of LGBTQ before his that paved the way, fighting for recognition and rights, like that of the Stonewall riots.
In 2018, he began working with IGT, a global leader in the gaming industry that prints lottery tickets. The last 20 years of Dustin’s career have been dedicated to Human Resources. “I had a mentor in high school as part of my business curriculum that got me into Human Resources. It was a passion for me because I love training and development, I love connecting with my team, my employees. It was kind of a natural fit. I got really lucky in that regard,” explained Shay. Prior to that, Shay thought his job would be designing cars. Around nine years old he had an entire portfolio of cars that he’d designed and drawn.
“Is there still a long way to go? Does our current political climate give us pause? Yes,” he admitted, adding that he chooses to focus on the positive cultural move towards diversity and inclusion versus anything negative.
Get Involved Shay places emphasis on the importance of community. He urges everyone to get involved and has a piece of sage advice for LGBTQ youth.
“I ended up taking the HR path and I’m really happy that I did,” reflected Shay. Though he chose a different career path, cars are still an interest of his outside of work. He no longer draws them but does have a knack for all things automotive – mechanical and otherwise. Friends call Dustin for everything from mechanical trouble to car shopping.
“Don’t be afraid,” he said. “That’s about anything – your goals, who you love, what you want to do, where you want to go in life.”
A Passion for Human Resources Shay is an HR Specialist for IGT, along with overseeing talent acquisition for their site of about 300 employees. His daily duties entail community engagement, outreach, recruiting, sourcing, and interviewing.
His message for the broader community was simple but potent as well.
As an executive board member of Polk Pride and part of the LGBTQ community, Shay is pleased that the Lakeland companies he has worked for have been supporters of Pride. Rita Staffing has been a sponsor of Polk Pride, with IGT joining the list of sponsors this year. Shortly after starting with IGT, Dustin sent an email to their community engagement department about sponsoring Polk Pride. They signed on immediately and are one of the top sponsors this year.
“Get involved, hang out with some of these people in the community. Get to know them,” said Shay. “Because at the end of the day, whether you have a perception of what Pride is, what LGBTQ people are – they are people. It takes three minutes to realize that some of those labels or barriers that you may have notions of, completely disappear.” Photo: Dustin on left, Adam Sparks, a volunteer with Polk Pride on the right.
Shay applauded the company for its stance on diversity and inclusion. “It’s great to work for a company that’s not just about the bottom dollar, it’s about culture and diversity,” he remarked. His professional goals are centered around continual growth in HR Management, specifically within IGT. Their global headquarters are based in London, which he jested wouldn’t be such a bad place to be.
A Shift Towards Diversity Center stage for Dustin Shay’s personal focus is the organization he and his fellow board members pour so much
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Alison Foley-Rothrock Through her law practice, Foley Immigration Law and nonprofit The Red Tent Initiative, Lakeland attorney, Alison Foley-Rothrock is using her voice to bust stigmas and give power to victims as a survivor, advocate and leader. Alison grew up in the northeast and went to school in Rhode Island where she graduated with her bachelor’s degree and attended law school. “I wanted to be involved in law because I see it as an extension of politics. I’ve always been very political and motivated by ideas of justice and human rights,” said Foley-Rothrock. She has been dedicated to practicing immigration law since 2004. Prior to her law career, Alison looked into teaching and the arts, two things she loves, but decided she wanted to do something that would use her talents in a more impactful way.
Starting Her Own Practice In 2006, a year and a half out of law school, after just finding out that she was pregnant with her first child, Alison’s position at a nonprofit she’d been working for was cut. The more she had been immersed in immigration law, the more she felt that helping immigrants, especially immigrant victims of crime, was exactly where she needed to be. The only way she could continue to do that and provide for her growing family was to go into private practice. Foley-Rothrock started her practice, Foley Immigration Law that year. When Alison found herself going through a divorce with a toddler and another on the way, it the security of a steady paycheck led her to take a position at a nonprofit she had volunteered for. In 2010, Alison was offered a job to be in private practice, that would move her family to Clearwater, Florida. “The opportunity both to move south and to go back into private practice […] was too good to pass up,” she said. In November of 2011 when the attorney who had hired her, closed her firm, Foley-Rothrock continued in private practice for herself. She met her husband in 2014 and then fell in love with Lakeland shortly after, moving her family and practice.
The Red Tent Initiative In 2015, motivated by her work with nonprofits and her own experiences, Foley-Rothrock started the Red Tent Initiative. “One of the reasons I had always stuck with nonprofits was because I have a real passion for helping survivors of domestic violence and other types of crime, abuse, and exploitation,” she explained. In working with clients at her practice, Alison realized one of their biggest needs was someone they could talk to who could relate to what they had been through. As a child, Alison herself grew up in an abusive home. In adulthood, she found herself in a series of toxic relationships.
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“Part of my recovery from that was to learn to talk about it with other people and sort of shake off the shame and stigma that comes with being a survivor,” she said. “Statistically speaking, domestic violence happens across all spectrums. The one group who are actually more vulnerable are people who are born in foreign countries and move to the U.S.” She noticed all of the overlaps within the immigration work she was doing. “I was seeing people who were having these layers of vulnerability and disadvantage – having been born in another country, maybe being undocumented, or not having U.S. citizenship yet, or maybe not speaking the language.” “It was only when I experienced it myself and I tried to access services with all of the advantages that I do have – I speak the language, I’m a U.S. citizen, I’m educated, I had the main income in our household – still, it was really hard to pull myself away and find support,” she said. “When I did find support services available, I felt like the attitude of the people who worked in these services tended to be kind of condescending. They asked those same questions that made me feel like it was my fault,” Foley-Rothrock explained. To Alison, this was a gap that needed to be bridged. When working with clients who were facing similar circumstances, Foley-Rothrock lifted the detached, inhuman veil that traditionally exists between lawyer and client. She discovered, “If I would tell them, ‘It happened to me too. I understand what you’re going through because I’ve been there,’ it really changed the whole dynamic between us.” The Red Tent Initiative came out of that idea that sharing survivor stories is a powerful thing. “It defies this idea that this is stuff that we don’t talk about, that the shame and stigma are for the victim to bare going forward, that they’re the ones who have to work through it, the totally false idea that victims are people that you don’t run into every day.” The first Red Tent event was held on March 31, 2015. The date fell at the end of International Women’s History Month and the eve of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. “We felt like it was kind symbolic of how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go,” said the organization’s founder. Foley-Rothrock invited influential women in the community to speak. She was surprised to hear survival stories from all of the women she had invited. Business owners, people who ran nonprofits, community leaders – they each had stories about domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. This inspired the attorney.
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“If they could just talk about the fact that they’ve been survivors more, it might change the way we all look at survivors and change the way that people who are in situations where they are being victimized think about their own possibilities.” The Red Tent Initiative has since turned into a monthly event, showcasing local artists, musicians, spoken word poets, and visual artists to do a themed show telling the stories of survivors, and giving the floor to survivors to share their own stories.“We couple it with art to make it more impactful and to show the beauty of being a survivor and the strength of survivors and hopefully inspire people to take action,” said the Red Tent founder. Funds collected by the organization are used to fill gaps in which social services aren’t able to meet – needs like assistance with safe houses, groceries, and car insurance. The Red Tent Initiative is a radically inclusive network made up entirely of survivors and allies. If you or someone you know is an exploitative or abusive situation, you can contact the Red Tent Initiative at (813) 424-0652 or through their website at redtentinitiative.org.
CityMaker Alison was recognized by the City of Lakeland as a CityMaker in November 2018 by Mayor Bill Mutz for her work as an attorney and advocate. She admitted she felt a little cautious moving to Polk County, an area known for being conservative. Alison explained that she doesn’t fall within the borders of what might be deemed “socially acceptable” to a conservative community. She identifies as queer, her husband is transgender, she has multiracial children, practices immigration law, and advocates for awareness of topics that are uncomfortable for some to acknowledge. “To get an award that to me kind of symbolizes acceptance – not just acceptance but being embraced by this community – it was way more than a pat on the back,” she said. “That really meant a lot to me.”
Loud and Proud As a queer-identifying person, Alison voiced that she thinks Polk County is moving in the right direction in regard to embracing the LGBTQ community. “I think it’s important for everyone to realize that everyone who might otherwise be seen as outsiders as not having potential, often become leaders in our communities. It’s important to me to be loud and proud as both someone who is in the LGBT community and a survivor because these are things that a lot of times carry shame and stigma, especially in conservative communities, it’s all the more important for me to put that out front,” said Foley-Rothrock. “If you want to be my friend and my supporter, you have to embrace the whole package. You can’t compartmentalize who I am in your mind, to make me more acceptable.”
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Kerri McCoy Motherhood and advocacy are two of the biggest parts of New York born, Florida raised Kerri McCoy’s life. She and her husband, Kevin, have two sons ages 26 and 20. When her oldest son came out in high school, Kerri began her mission to do what she could to see that the LGBTQ community had the same protections as anyone else.
Kristine Lally, president of LYA (Lakeland Youth Alliance) traveled to Tallahassee for Lobby Days. They spent time knocking on doors in an effort to gain support for the Equality Act, a bill that would amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Equality Florida notes that the Equality Act is, “the most comprehensive LGBTQ civil rights legislation ever filed in Congress and establishes protections in essential areas of life including housing, employment, public spaces, education, credit and even jury service.”
As a stay at home mom, Kerri focused her energy on raising her two children. “My husband and I sacrificed a lot in order for me to do that,” she said. “We started out struggling, but it was important to us that we raise our kids ourselves.”
The U.S House of Representatives voted to pass the Equality Act in May. McCoy hopes to see it passed by the U.S. Senate and signed by the president to afford the same protections to all Americans.
The close-knit family supported their oldest son when he came out in high school. Kerri said she and her husband were not surprised or shocked and didn’t have any issues accepting it. “I was raised where we just loved everybody,” said Kerri.
On the local level, McCoy noted that LYA president, Kristine Lally has been representing Polk Pride at Haines City commission meetings in attempts to pass a Human Rights Ordinance (HRO) that would include sexual orientation and gender identity. According to Equality Florida, “A Human Rights Ordinance is a policy passed on the local level (city or county) to prohibit discrimination based on certain characteristics. These policies often ban discrimination in housing, public accommodations, and employment. HRO policies most often ban discrimination based on race, religion, sex, disability, ethnicity, national origin and marital status.”
The only worry she had for her son initially was fear for his safety, but that passed, and life went on as normal. “He’s loving, he’s very highly intelligent, just an all-around good kid – even though he’s an adult I still consider him a kid,” she laughed. McCoy joined the Polk chapter of PFLAG to be a help to any parents, family or friends of someone in the LGBTQ community that were struggling with it. Three years after joining, she became president of PFLAG of Polk County.
Kerri hopes, if an HRO including sexual orientation and gender identity is passed in Haines City, surrounding communities will get on board, assuring the rights of LGBTQ individuals.
Learning and research are a large part of what Kerri does. If a parent calls and she doesn’t have answers, she will ask questions, research, contact doctors, counselors, and whoever else she needs to, to figure out the best way to help those parents.
One of McCoy’s biggest frustrations through her work with PFLAG has been getting the schools to educate teachers, support staff, bus drivers, and anyone else working directly with the children, training and education regarding LGBTQ issues.
“Everything I do is for the LGBT community,” said the PFLAG president. “This is my one and only hobby, my first love.”
Kerri said for many people, “If they don’t have any LGBT members in their household or in their family, they might not understand it.”
Her deep-seated passion for LGBTQ advocacy is rooted in a few reasons. The first being that it is someone’s child. “I don’t know how anybody cannot love their child because of who their child loves,” she pondered. “If a family needs help understanding their kid and needs that guidance and that reassurance that everything is going to be okay – I am more than willing to do that to keep a family together because that is so important.”
From transitioning to struggling with their gender identity or sexuality, Kerri said, “A lot of kids are struggling, they’re having a hard time in school because they’re not understood.” McCoy made it clear that she was not disparaging the teachers, just advocating for them to get more education “on what it means to be LGBT and how these kids are affected by the things that are said and done to them.”
The second reason is the law, or lack thereof, protecting the rights of LGBTQ individuals in Florida. Kerri explained, “In the state of Florida we have no protections. My son can be fired from his job at any time, my son can be kicked out of his apartment at any time. There are different protections in different counties and with different companies, but it is sort of like a puzzle and you have to figure out where you’re safe.”
McCoy said her personal goal is, “To keep families together, to keep kids off the streets. We have a high amount of homeless in Polk County and a lot of them are LGBT.” She would one day like to see an LGBTQ shelter like Orlando’s Zebra House, in Polk County.
She continued, “I think that’s another reason why is because I know that my son’s life can change at any given moment for no reason other than who he loves – I don’t think that’s right. That keeps me going every day just knowing that we have a lot of fighting to do.” Emboldened by her convictions, Kerri McCoy, along with
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When asked if there was anything she’d like to share, she concluded with a smile, “Love is love.”
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JUNE CALENDAR 2019 1-9 DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org/ Purchase fresh produce, plants and local handcrafted items. The 11-month Market (closed in August) is a showcase for the talents and the work of local artisans and local growers. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). TOWN & COUNTRY HISTORY BUS TOUR When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Downtown Lake Wales, Stuart Ave. www.lakewalesfl.gov/767/Events 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 & payment required. (863) 676-1759. FLASHBACK FEMALE: WOMEN ARTISTS IN THE 1980S AND 1990S FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION PART I When: Jun. 01 through August 03, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org This two-gallery, two-part installation highlights the important contributions and strides female artists made in the art worlds of the 1980s and 1990s. Selected from the Museum’s permanent collection. (863) 688-7743 FLASHBACK FEMALE: WOMEN ARTISTS IN THE 1980S AND 1990S FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION PART II When: Jun. 01 through Aug. 31, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org This two-gallery, two-part installation highlights the important contributions and strides female artists made in the art worlds of the 1980s and 1990s. Selected from the Museum’s permanent collection. (863) 688-7743 LINDA FINCH When: Jun. 01 through July 20, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Finch’s work aims to invite more than just a quick glance and immediate response. Instead, it asks the viewer to dive a little deeper and identify the underlying message that can only be discovered through closer examination. From rising sea levels and climate change to the degradation and loss of natural habitats, her paintings focus on current global issues that impact our society both environmentally and socially. (863) 688-7743. INSIDE THE MASTERS’ STUDIOS: RICHARD HAAS DIORAMAS When: Jun. 01, 2019 through July 27, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Haas’ meticulously rendered and deeply-researched dioramas re-imagine the famed creative environments of havenmagazines.com
the most world-famous artists from Vermeer to Corot and Picasso to Pollock and take us back in time to peer into the very rooms in which some of the greatest works of art of all time were made. (863) 688-7743.
DUELING PIANOS When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 8-10 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Two accomplished pianists, and veteran singers/comedians sailing full-steam ahead through a non-stop show featuring a variety of music, special dedications, comedy and audience participation. The Dueling Pianos Show features Joe Lupis and Andrew Percoco. Dueling Pianos has become the most popular show in clubs over the world. With more than 25 years of show business experience each, and 10 years together. (863) 294-7469.
WILLIAM SCHAAF: THE WAY OF THE EQUINE When: Jun. 01 through Jun. 08, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org For many years, Bill Schaaf has explored equine imagery in his paintings and sculpture. The horse figure as an iconic metaphor for power, sensuality, transition and beauty has occupied a dominant place in his visual vocabulary. At times, the figures are relatively representational; but more often than not, take on a form that is derived from the idea of a horse, yet defining new ways of interpreting the glorious nature of these animals that have partnered with humankind since virtually the dawn of civilization. (863) 688-7743.
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. FORT MYERS When: Jun. 02, 2019 | 1 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. Every Sunday home game, enjoy brunch in the 34 Club Presented by Miller Lite from 12:00 until 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $24 in advance and $27 on the day of game. (863) 686-8075.
ACCESS ART: SPECIAL NEEDS When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Participants will create and discuss art with specially trained educator, Tinia Clark. 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. After the tour the group meets at Kelly Rec. Center to make art inspired by the museum visit. Registration preferred but not required. Questions please contact Tinia Clark at (863) 224-8557 or email at sidestreetartbeat@ gmail.com.
YOGA NIDRA When: Jun. 02, 2019 | 5-6:15 p.m. Where: Inside Out Yoga, 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven www.ioyogastudio.com Geri Ross will facilitate Yoga Nidra. This class will include a brief explanation, a light physical practice and a deep guided meditation. Reserve your space online. $20 ANNUAL LAKELAND ART GUILD EXHIBITION When: Jun. 03 through Jun. 07, 2019 Where: Melvin and Burks Gallery 1118-1198 Johnson Ave, Lakeland www.flsouthern.edu Founded in 1952, the Lakeland Art Guild is the oldest local community arts organization in Polk County. Melvin and Burks Galleries are pleased to exhibit works created by local artists, both established and emerging, and to bring together the members of the community to recognize homegrown talent. (863) 680-4111
HISTORY TIME TOTS When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 2 p.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow www.polk-county.net History Time Tots, a story and activity time, designed for ages five and under. Cintia Ally, Curator of Education and Programming, will be reading “Dad by My Side” by Soosh. We are celebrating dads this month at the History Center! Our young learners will be making photo frames to celebrate Father’s Day. (863) 534-4386.
LAKELAND PRIDE PROCLAMATION When: Jun. 03, 2019 | 3-4 p.m. Where: Lakeland City Hall 228 S Massachusetts, Lakeland polkpridefl.com Join Polk Pride as they receive a Proclamation declaring Pride week for all Lakeland residents.
BATTLE OF THE BADGES IV: LPD VS. PCSO When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 3-5 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland mpv.tickets.com The return of the most anticipated rematch in Polk County: Battle of the Badges IV. Polk County Sheriff’s Office looks to defend their title of Softball Champion against the Lakeland Police Department. Gates will open at 3pm, first pitch for the softball game will be at 3:45pm. Teams will conclude play at 5pm. The 29 game worn jerseys will be available for purchase for $100. Proceeds from the jerseys will benefit the corresponding foundations of the LPD and PCSO. Parking is free. Must purchase ticket to June 1st Flying Tigers game to attend Battle of the Badges softball game.
SUMMER ART CLASSES When: Jun. 03, 2019 | 5-7 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales centralfloridatix.com The Lake Wales Arts Council will be holding an 8-week summer arts program for high school & adult students and will focus on painting and pottery techniques. Classes will take place on Mondays from 5 - 7 PM. Enrollment is limited, on a first come/first served basis and is expected to fill before the first class date. This program is a 8 week-long commitment and does not have a “drop-in” option for students looking to only pay for a few classes throughout the summer. All materials will be provided by the Lake Wales Arts Center. Register online.
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. FORT MYERS When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 6 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com/lakeland Minor League Baseball. Enjoy fireworks after the game! (863) 686-8075.
BARTOW PRIDE PROCLAMATION When: Jun. 03, 2019 | 6-7 p.m. Where: City of Bartow 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow Join Polk Pride as they receive a Proclamation declaring Pride week for all Bartow residents.
LAKELAND TROPICS VS FC MIAMI CITY When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Bryant Stadium, 1125 N Florida Ave, Lakeland www.fltropics.com US League Two Lakeland Tropics take on FC Miami City at Bryant Stadium.
AUBURNDALE PRIDE PROCLAMATION When: Jun. 03, 2019 | 7-8 p.m. Where: Government Offices City of Auburndale 2215 Ariana St., Lakeland polkpridefl.com Join Polk Pride as they receive a Proclamation declaring Pride week for all Auburndale residents.
LAKELAND TARPONS VS. MANATEE NEPTUNES When: Jun. 01, 2019 | 7:05 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center, 701 Lime Street, Lakeland www.lakelandtarpons.com Arena Football.
CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Jun. 03, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Lakeland’s Beer Rev 3234 S Florida Ave., Lakeland www.beerrev.com 32
Let’s start by saying this is not your nana’s bingo but if she comes out she is sure to have a good time. Grab your dobbers and go for a night of easy fun and great beer. There is no fee to play and if you don’t have your own stash of dobbers, don’t worry, you can borrow one! CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 04, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City hainescity.com This is a self-guided, ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, you can paint. This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:30 AM-11:30 AM in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10. LAKE WALES PRIDE PROCLAMATION When: Jun. 04, 2019 | 6-7 p.m. Where: Lake Wales City Hall 152 E Central Ave., Lake Wales polkpridefl.com Join Polk Pride as they receive a Proclamation declaring Pride week for all Lake Wales residents! CHARCUTERIE WORKSHOP When: Jun. 04, 2019 | 6-8:30 p.m. Where: Scout & Tag Atelier 1214 S Florida Ave, Lakeland www.scoutandtag.com Scout & Tag is teaming up with the great chefs at Aprons to demonstrate the makings of a beautiful and tasty Charcuterie Tray. Afterwards, make a Charcuterie Tray at the Atelier. Register online. (863) 225-2426. WEDNESDAY WEED WARRIORS When: Jun. 05, 2019 | 8:15 a.m. Where: Circle B Bar Reserve 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland Come and make a difference by removing the invasive species Caesar weed. Bring your favorite pair of gloves, and some water and plan to spend a couple of hours (or as long as you can last) removing Caesar weed. The Nature Discovery Center doesn’t open until 9 am so please meet behind the Nature Center at 8:15 am. Contact Tabitha Biehl at Polk’s Nature Discovery Center: (863) 668-4673 for more information. BIG ORIENTATION & TRAINING When: Jun. 05, 2019 | 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Women’s Resource Center 165 Avenue 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. MONTHLY TEACHING KITCHEN When: Jun. 06, 2019 | 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Central Florida Health Care, Inc. 201 Magnolia Ave SW, Winter Haven Central Florida Health Care invites you to FREE monthly community Teaching Kitchen classes. Learn helpful lifestyle tips and how to make healthy meals the whole family will love -- because the more we know, the better we feel! (866) 234-8534 YOGA CLASS When: Jun. 06, 2019 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve 945 Mackay Blvd, Lake Alfred mylakealfred.com Every Thursday evening there will be a yoga class at the Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve. Everyone is welcome, just bring a mat and an open heart. Donations will be accepted although the class is free. CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City
hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, you can paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:30 AM-11:30 AM in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10. THE DAVENPORT MARKETPLACE When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Market Square, 110 West Bay St., Davenport More info at www.mydavenport.org or call Katie 863-4193300 ext. 138 or email at kfussell@mydavenport.org GENEALOGY 101 AT THE LW PUBLIC LIBRARY PROVIDED BY THE WILTSHIRE SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Public Library 290 Cypress Garden Lane, Lake Wales lakewaleschamber.com/community-calendar/ First Friday of each month. Discover where you’re from, uncover your roots. More info at (863) 287-7347 JUNE 7TH FIRST FRIDAY: FAMILY FUN NIGHT When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland 117 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland downtownlkld.com Lakeland Moonwalk will have inflatable, ride & climb, and competitive games. Bring the kids, and celebrate school being out for summer. Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Don’t miss the Makers Market, featuring local artists and creators, on North Kentucky Avenue and the Classy Car Show on Tennessee Avenue. Streets are closed to vehicles, so come prepared to walk about! 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. To learn more, visit DowntownLKLD.com or call (863) 683-2783. RACE AND CULTURE LECTURE SERIES — SPECIAL EVENT: “CONVERSATIONS IN BED” STAGE READING BY GRETCHEN SUAREZ-PENA When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 6-7:30 p.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St., Bartow www.polk-county.net The Polk County History Center, in cooperation with local playwright Gretchen Suarez-Pena, concludes the lecture series on Race and Culture with a stage reading of Ms. Suarez-Pena’s piece “Conversations in Bed.” The show follows four couples and the comical and universal conversations they have before going to sleep. (863) 534 4386. LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. ST. LUCIE When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com/lakeland Minor League Baseball (863) 686-8075. SWAN CITY IMPROV: LAUGHTER IN JUNE When: Jun. 07, 2019 | 7:30 p.m. Where: LkldTV, 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland www.lkldlive.com Top Swan at 7:30 PM is usually pretty packed so get there early. Doors open at 7:00 PM. At 9:00 PM we have the return of the Wishing Tree. You guys provide the wishes and we will make all of your wishes come true on stage. Who knows, we might even play some other fun new stuff to keep you on your toes. $10 per show or $15 for both. 2019 SUMMER SUNRISE WATERMELON 5K SERIES RACE #1 When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 7 a.m. Where: Lake Hollingsworth lakelandrunnersclub.org The Summer Sunrise Watermelon Race Series was born out of a desire to have low-cost local races during the hot summer months, when it can be hard to stay motivated. The series has become an established venue for competition and an annual celebration of fitness. The series is comprised of three 5K (3.1 mile) races, each race hotter than the last. All are run around Lake Hollingsworth, which is flat and conducive to fast times. Your mission is to get faster with each race. Proceeds from the run goes towards scholarships
for Polk County graduates administered through the Polk Education Foundation. Register online.
52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven www.ioyogastudio.com Drumming is a rhythm based therapy that creates a pathway for uplifting social connection and addresses physical, sensorimotor and experiential processes of emotions as an experience. Music heals! Rhythmic music assists in regulating respiratory control, stress responses, motor function and higher order cognitive functions. This is a drumming journey, one that will strengthen your resiliency to stressors, nourish your soul and increase emotional intimacy. These sessions will be without judgement and inadequacies of words, here .. music is the sound of emotion. Adults $20 children $5
DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org Purchase fresh produce, plants and local handcrafted items. The 11-month Market (closed in August) is a showcase for the talents and the work of local artisans and local growers. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA).
SATURDAY AFTERNOON FAMILY MOVIES When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 2-4 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.
LAKE WALES FARMERS MARKET When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: 20 N. Market Street 20 N. Market Street, Lake Wales lwmainstreet.com/farmers-market The Lake Wales Downtown Farmers Market creates a sense of place, a feeling of belonging, and the promise of a brighter future. The Lake Wales Downtown Farmer’s Market offers everything from fresh eggs to citrus trees, from honey to handmade soaps, hot sauce and so much more.
CLASSIC CAR SHOW When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 4-8 p.m. Where: Downtown Auburndale www.auburndalefl.com/park_events
“BUILDING AN ICON: BUILDING BOK TOWER SINGING CARILLON” BY BOK TOWER GARDENS When: Jun. 08 through Aug. 24, 2019 Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales www.lakewalesfl.gov Features information about the ways that people worked on the Singing Tower from Edward Bok’s initial vision to its design and construction. Photographs, infographics, bios, and details from the builder’s journals tell the story of the Tower, from the foundation to its crowning herons. (863) 676-1759.
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. ST. LUCIE When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 6 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. Enjoy fireworks after the game! (863) 686-8075. PACK THE PARK When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 6 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.kidspack.org/pack-the-park/ The Flying Tigers will be hosting the 8th Annual ‘Pack the Park’ event benefiting kidsPACK. Players and coaches will be wearing specialty orange jerseys during the game. 1 in 4 children struggle with hunger in Florida, KidsPACK goal is to feed them all and they need your help! Come fill the seats to feed the children. Fans are encouraged to bring items to donate to Kidspack. They are in need of Chef Boyardee 7.5 oz microwaveable bowls, Pop Tarts, breakfast bars, crackers or 4 oz applesauce cups. For tickets call the BayCare Box office at 863-413-4140 or through our website http://lkld.co/pack. kidsPACK is a non-profit organization dedicated to feeding disadvantaged children; giving them a backpack of nutritious food each Friday to sustain them on weekends when they don’t have access to subsidized school meals.
SUMMER FUN DAYS When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales www.lakewalesfl.gov Special guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations, artifact discovery, tours with the curator, art projects, storytelling, fun snacks, dress up activities for the whole family are offered throughout Saturdays in the summertime with all kinds of different history themes. Sponsored by Florida’s Natural Growers. Free to the public. (863) 676-1759. STRANGELY DARK: ODDITIES & CURIOSITIES MARKET When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Where: Lakeland Square Mall 3800 U.S. Highway. 98 North, Lakeland One-of-a-kind event featuring Wizardry, Gothic Art, Skulls, Taxidermy, Unique items, Grunge, Indie, Dark Artists, Punk, Oddities and Curiosities.
DIAMOND DIXIE When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St., Lakeland swanbrewing.com Diamond Dixie is an Orlando-based country duo made up of sisters Gabriela and Bianca LeDuc. The girls have been performing for more than a decade and have traveled all over the United States playing shows, recording music and making radio and television appearances. www. diamonddixie.com (863) 703-0472.
INTRODUCTION TO NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF SPENCE, FORMER DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND NATURAL RESOURCE When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow www.polk-county.net Jeff Spence and his wife, Lynette, have traveled around the globe photographing natural landscapes and wildlife. Join us as Spence teaches basic nature photography skills and shows examples of his photography from such far flung locales as Africa and New Zealand, and from the Polk County’s Circle B Bar Reserve. (863) 534 4386.
ASTRONOMY NIGHT When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 7 p.m. Where: Colt Creek State Park 16000 Sr-471, Lakeland All are welcome--bring your own scope or binoculars, or use ours. Come early, bring a picnic lunch and join the crowd for some mingling and chatting. Regular park fees apply. For more information, contact Cleve at astronut.cleve@ tampabay.rr.com. www.polkastro.org
BIG ORIENTATION & TRAINING When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: BBBS Office, 1231 Orange St., Lakeland 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.
LAKELAND TROPICS VS TREASURE COAST TRITONS When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Bryant Stadium 1125 N Florida Ave, Lakeland www.fltropics.com Lakeland Tropics home game against the Treasure Coast Tritons, it’s family fun everyone will enjoy! LAKELAND TARPONS VS. GULF COAST FIRE When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 7:05 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland www.lakelandtarpons.com Arena Football
DRUM BEATS WITH KIM SKINNER When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Where: Inside Out Yoga 33
LADIES OF COUNTRY When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 8-10 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com/ The Ritz Theatre presents Ladies of Country with the Erica DiCeglie Band; a high energy, sweet and soulful (and sometimes sassy) revue, featuring the songs of Country Music’s all-time greatest female artists. A recording artist, she recently released her latest EP, “My Blue,” which features two original country songs, “Losin’ Ground,” and “First Love Feeling.” (863) 294-7469. COOTER BROWN COMEDY JAM When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 8-11 p.m. Where: LkldTV, 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland www.lkldlive.com Enjoy hilarious sets from Spunky Robinson, Tony Black, Loose Cannon all led by your host for the evening, Case Money. REHAB LIVE AT JESSIE’S When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 8 p.m. Where: Jessie’s Lounge 118 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com/events/rehab-live-at-jessie-s This show is indoors, 21+ rain or shine. No outside drinks and no reentry. Come welcome back REHAB to Jessie’s and if you missed them last time, make sure your save the date. Only $25 in advance $35 at the door. PRIDE LAUNCH PARTY When: Jun. 08, 2019 | 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Where: Lakeland Pulse, 1030 E Main St., Lakeland polkpridefl.com Join Polk Pride as they launch Pride 2019. Polk Pride will be partying at Lakeland Pulse with the Polk Pride drag cast, official t-shirt giveaways, and more! (18+ welcome, cover charge may apply). STRANGELY DARK: ODDITIES & CURIOSITIES MARKET When: Jun. 09, 2019 | 12-6 p.m. Where: Lakeland Square Mall 3800 U.S. Highway. 98 North, Lakeland One-of-a-kind event featuring Wizardry, Gothic Art, Skulls, Taxidermy, Unique items, Grunge, Indie, Dark Artists, Punk, Oddities and Curiosities. LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. ST. LUCIE When: Jun. 09, 2019 | 1 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. Every Sunday home game, enjoy brunch in the 34 Club Presented by Miller Lite from 12:00 until 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $24 in advance and $27 on the day of game. (863) 686-8075. 2019 BROADWAY AWARD NIGHT When: Jun. 09, 2019 | 7-11 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com The Ritz Theatre is proud to announce the first, and most glamorous event, Broadway Award Night! Join us as we celebrate Broadway’s biggest night of the year with a Red Carpet Reception and VIP-worthy watch party for the live telecast of the 72nd annual Tony Awards on the Big Screen! Broadway Award Night reception begins at 7 pm on Central under the Ritz marquee - walk the red carpet and pose for pictures with Broadway’s biggest stars! Inside, there will be games, prizes, free popcorn and hair and makeup touch up with professional stylists. The Tony Awards pre-show on the big screen and cash bar. ABC’s live coverage begins at 8pm. Tickets starting at: $17
10-16 LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. DAYTONA When: Jun. 10, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075.
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CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Jun. 10, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Lakeland’s Beer Rev 3234 S Florida Ave., Lakeland www.beerrev.com Let’s start by saying this is NOT your Nana’s Bingo BUT if she comes out she is sure to have a good time. We will be pouring drafts and calling out lucky numbers starting at 7pm with prizes to follow. Bring your dobbers you can borrow one of ours! Free to play. CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 11, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, they paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10. EAT TO BEAT DIABETES When: Jun. 11, 2019 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Talbot House Medical Clinic 814 N Kentucky Ave., Lakeland www.eventbrite.com/e/eat-to-beat-diabetestickets-59392704177 Through games and activities learn from a registered dietitian how to fill a healthy plate at meals and fit in all the foods you love. (863) 519-1041. Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Family and Consumer Sciences. HISTORY TIME TOTS When: Jun. 11, 2019 | 10 a.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow www.polk-county.net A story and activity time, designed for ages five and under. Cintia Ally, Curator of Education and Programming, will be reading “Dad by My Side” by Soosh. We are celebrating dads this month at the History Center! Our young learners will be making photo frames to celebrate Father’s Day. (863) 534-4386. LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. DAYTONA When: Jun. 11, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075. WEDNESDAY WEED WARRIORS When: Jun. 12, 2019 | 8:15 a.m. Where: Circle B Bar Reserve 4399 Winter Lake Rd., Lakeland Bring your favorite pair of gloves, and some water and plan to spend a couple of hours (or as long as you can last) removing Caesar weed. The Nature Discovery Center doesn’t open until 9 am so please meet behind the Nature Center at 8:15 am. Thank you! Contact Tabitha Biehl at Polk’s Nature Discovery Center: (863) 668-4673 for more information. BECOME A CERTIFIED AMBASSADOR OF TOURISM & SPORTS When: Jun. 12, 2019 | 9 a.m. Where: Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center 101 Adventure Ct., Davenport http://ow.ly/Takd30mpHrt Do you want to learn more about Central Florida’s attractions, and educate the world on the diverse place you call home? Our Visitor Information Center’s ambassador program is open to everyone! This month we’re taking a guided tour of the Polk County History Center. Become a Certified Ambassador of Tourism & Sports (C.A.T.S.) Register for the Training Session + Guided Walking Tour by contacting Savannah@VisitCentralFlorida.org or calling (863) 420-2586. This session is limited to 25 attendees. Registration: $10. Visit http://ow.ly/Takd30mpHrt for more information. PRIDE FOR YOUTH When: Jun. 12, 2019 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Skate World Lakeland 911 North Lake Parker Avenue, Lakeland polkpridefl.com Ages 13-20, Lakeland Youth Alliance Pride Week Party.
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LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. DAYTONA When: Jun. 12, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075.
ROLLER DERBY RECRUIT NIGHT When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Wanna know what it takes to be on the team? Curious about volunteering with us? Just want someone to explain to you what roller derby is? Come grab a beer with us at Swan Brewing and we’ll answer all your questions! We’ll have gear available to try on, informational flyers, footage of games we’ve played in the past and plenty of skaters ready to answer your questions. This is a casual, meet and greet night for all interested parties. More info on Facebook @ SwanCityRollerDerby
LUNCH & LEARN: ORNAMENTAL GRASSES When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Public Library 290 Cypress Garden Lane, Lake Wales Learn how to utilize them in the landscape, how to care for them, and unique characteristics of different species. This is a free lunch and learn workshop and lunch is provided. Registration is required! Workshop is presented by the UF/ IFAS Extension Polk County Master Gardeners and Lake Wales Library. Go to https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk/ for more information. If you have any questions, please contact (863) 519-1041.
CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, they get to paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10.
CREATIVE WRITING CRITIQUE GROUP When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven This group meets on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month. Attendees share and critique their writings. All aspiring writers are welcome. Questions? Send email to wekeig@gmail.com
POINT OF VIEW GALLERY TALK When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Join us for Point of View Gallery talks every second Friday of the month at noon. Space is limited. Please register online. (863) 688-7743.
ECLECTIC BOOK CLUB When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 1:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Lake Alfred Public Library 245 N Seminole Ave, Lake Alfred mylakealfred.com/event/eclectic-book-club/ Join director, Linda Hitchcock, for an Eclectic Book Club at the Lake Alfred Library. Unlike ordinary book clubs, you can bring in whatever you are reading & talk about what you like. There is no assigned book to read.
HAUS MRKT SUMMER 2019 When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 5:30-9 p.m. Where: Haus 820 820 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland haus820.com/haus-mrkt/ An evening of shopping local vendors, food, music & cocktails.
LAKELAND FOOD TRUCK RALLY When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Munn Park, Lakeland www.tampabayfoodtruckrally.com/lakeland-food-truckrally-2 Monthly Food Truck Rally in Munn Park in Downtown Lakeland on the second Thursday of every month. Free Admission and Dog Friendly!
DISNEY’S SLEEPING BEAUTY KIDS When: Jun. 14, 15 & 16, 2019 Where: Lakeland Community Theatre 121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland www.lakelandcommunitytheatre.com Based on one of the most treasured Disney animated films of all time, featuring some of the world’s most memorable songs, Disney’s Sleeping Beauty KIDS is pure, delightful fun for the entire family. (863) 603-7529. WRIGHT AFTER DARK TOUR When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 7-8:30 p.m. Where: Florida Southern College 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland www.flsouthern.edu/community/frank-lloyd-wright/home. aspx On the 2nd Friday of each month, experience the treasured buildings of Frank Lloyd Wright like never before. The campus is home to 13 remarkable Wright structures, including the Usonian Faculty House and iconic Annie Pfeiffer Chapel. Reservations are required. Please call (863) 680-4597.
HEARING LOSS CHAPTER MEETING When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 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. YOGA CLASS When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve 945 Mackay Blvd, Lake Alfred mylakealfred.com Every Thursday evening, everyone is welcome, just bring a mat and an open heart. Donations will be accepted although the class is free.
PRIDE KICKOFF When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Peggy Brown Building 215 S Lake Ave., Lakeland polkpridefl.com Cocktail reception & sponsor thank you! Open to all!
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. DAYTONA When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075.
REALITY STARS: GREEK GODS EDITION When: Jun. 14 through 23, 2019 Where: Lake Wales Little Theatre 411 N 3rd St., Lake Wales lwlt.org In this hilarious romp, the great Greek myths are explored within a reality show framework. Thirteen gods are put under one roof, but only one can survive to sit atop Mount Olympus. “Reality Stars: Greek Gods Edition” is an inventive retelling of Greek mythology where tempers flare, lovers quarrel, and rivalries ignite. With an added modern spin, even as far as letting the audience text in their votes, it’s mustsee TV — er, theatre! (Teen production) (863) 676-1266.
PRIDE IN FAITH When: Jun. 13, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Beacon Hill Fellowship 220 W Beacon Rd., Lakeland polkpridefl.com An interfaith pride service, open to all.
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CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE PRESENTS LED ZEPPELIN: LED ZEPPELIN 1 When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 8 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center, 701 Lime Street, Lakeland rpfundingcenter.com Classic Albums Live takes classic albums and performs them live, on stage - note for note, cut for cut - using the world’s greatest musicians. Ticketing: (888) 397-0100. SPACE PANDA, LADY MOONBEAM & MR. HANDSOME When: Jun. 14, 2019 | 8-11 p.m. Where: LkldTV, 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland www.lkldlive.com Heavy Hitter presents a night of sonic envelopment at Lkld Live. 8:00 Space Panda 8:30 Lady Moonbeam 9:00 TBA 10:00 Mr. Handsome. DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org/ Purchase fresh produce, plants and local handcrafted items. The 11-month Market (closed in August) is a showcase for the talents and the work of local artisans and local growers. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). THE DAVENPORT MARKETPLACE When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Market Square, 110 West Bay St., Davenport More info at www.mydavenport.org or call Katie (863) 419-3300 ext. 138 or email at kfussell@mydavenport.org. SUMMER FUN DAYS When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales www.lakewalesfl.gov Special guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations, artifact discovery, tours with the curator, art projects, storytelling, fun snacks, dress up activities for the whole family are offered throughout Saturdays in the summertime with all kinds of different history themes. Sponsored by Florida’s Natural Growers. Free to the public. (863) 676-1759. BOOK STORE 1/2 PRICE SALE When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Friends of the Winter Haven Library Book Store 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven 1/2 price sale on the 3rd Saturday of every month. PRIDE IN THE PARK 2019 When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Munn Park, Lakeland www.polkpridefl.com A festival for the whole family! Live music, entertainment, vendors, community sponsors and food trucks. The 5th year is gearing up to be the biggest yet! www.polkpridefl.com DOCENT-LED TOUR (ALL AGES) When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Third Saturdays of the month, free for everyone. Get a fresh look into the Museum’s main exhibition through connecting conversations with one of the passionate docents. Learn the stories behind the work. Registration is not necessary but appreciated. Space is limited. (863) 688-7743. DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 5 p.m. Where: Nora Mayo Hall 500 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven This semi formal dinner & dancing affair is a perfect Daddy/ Daughter date. Ticket price includes dinner. Purchase tickets at Nora Mayo Hall or Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center. Kings: $15 Princess: $10. All ages are welcome to attend. (863) 291-5675. PLAY IT FORWARD POLK When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 7 p.m. Where: Fresco’s Speakeasy 132 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
www.playitforwardpolk.com Spend an evening with Lakeland’s most entertaining band, the Amazing Sofa Kings & special guests, and help Play It Forward Polk continue to raise funds for instruments for the children of Polk County Public School Music programs. 50/50 raffle, Cooler of Cheer raffle and more. Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Play It Forward Polk is a 501c3 Nonprofit Organization raising money for musical instruments for kids in our public schools who cannot afford them. LAKELAND TROPICS VS WESTON FC When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Bryant Stadium, 1125 N Florida Ave, Lakeland www.fltropics.com Cheer on the Lakeland Tropics as they take on the Weston FC at Bryant Stadium! Bring your family and friends for this fun event! COMEDY NIGHT WITH KEN MILLER When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 7:30-9 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Headliner: Ken MillerKen is a US Army vet that quickly got the notice of every comedy club owner in the south with his “In your face style” and crazy stories. Ken was voted Florida’s Funniest Comedian going against over 100 other professionals. He also won the Comedy Central South Beach Comedy Festival. Feature: Mike LeeMike is the morning host on Max 98.3 and has been performing comedy for the better part of 20 years. BAKERSFIELD MIST When: Jun. 15, 16, 22 & 23, 2019 Where: Haines City Theatre 303 Ledwith Ave., Haines City www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4236264 This two person play tells the story of Maude Gutman, an exbartender from Bakersfield, California, who buys a thrift store painting that just might be a genuine Jackson Pollock worth millions. Enter Lionel Percy, noted art expert from New York, to appraise the validity of the painting. Both characters have a story to tell, and personalities clash as the two interact. Some controversial subject matter and strong language, along with humor and well written characterizations. This show is part of HCCT’s “On The Edge” program, which showcases plays outside the mainstream. Show dates are June 15 and 22 at 7:30 pm and June 16 and 23 at 2:30 pm. No reserved seating PRIDE AFTER DARK When: Jun. 15, 2019 | 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Where: LkldTV, 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland polkpridefl.com Polk Pride closing party! Ticket required, purchase online. An evening of drinks, drag, and dancing! You will not want to miss this amazing event as we close out Polk Pride 2019! THIS EVENT IS 21+. FATHER’S DAY! When: Jun. 16, 2019 CLASSIC CAR SHOW AT TANNERS When: Jun. 16, 2019 | 2-6 p.m. Where: Tanners Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr., Winter Haven Gear up for the Classic Car Show this Father’s Day, hosted by WJBJ Crusin With The Classics!
17-23 LWAC SUMMER ARTS CAMP SESSION 1 (2 WEEKS) When: Jun.17, 2019 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales centralfloridatix.com The Lake Wales Arts Center will host students from age 7 - 13 for a full two weeks of fine arts education. Classes include painting, drawing, pottery, music, graphic design, photography, and videography. All sessions are Monday Friday. This wheel-style day will allow students to participate in ALL disciplines, including visual, performing, and digital arts. There will be a student reception held on the last Friday of camp from 5 PM - 7 PM in the Michael Crews Gallery at the Lake Wales Arts Center. Students must provide their own lunch and snacks for the duration of camp. Scholarships
ARE available.Discounts are available for multiple student enrollments.We look forward to hosting another successful year of Summer Arts Camp activities!
various hearing-related topics. Some meetings are group discussions, potlucks, etc. Our goal is to help members and our community to better manage hearing loss. Meeting room is looped and captioned, so everyone can hear and participate. Small membership fee, but visitors are free. If you have questions, call (863) 853-3130.
CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 18, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, they get to paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10.
YOGA CLASS When: Jun. 20, 2019 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve 945 Mackay Blvd, Lake Alfred mylakealfred.com Every Thursday evening everyone is welcome, just bring a mat and an open heart. Donations will be accepted although the class is free. FIRST DAY OF SUMMER When: Jun. 21, 2019
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP When: Jun. 18, 2019 | 1:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Side Street Studios, Inc. 110 3rd St SW, Winter Haven www.alz.org/crf Support group is for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia.
CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 21, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, they get to paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10.
RISE UP: ANGELS AMONGST US When: Jun. 18, 2019 | 2 p.m. Where: Florida Wildflower Studios 12 East Wall St., Frostproof Acrylic Impressionism Art Class with Carol Hughes, $25 Members $30 Non members, Includes supplies. Florida Wildflower Studios is a community-oriented working art studio and gallery open to the public. For more information, stop by 12 East Wall St, Frostproof, or call (863) 206-9691 or (863) 855-8525.
ILLUSIONS IN REVUE: THE #1 CELEBRITY FEMALE IMPERSONATOR SHOW! When: Jun. 21, 2019 | 8:00-9:30 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave., Winter Haven www.centralfloridatix.com Hosted by the Divine Miss M, Bette Midler, played by well known comedian Leigh Shannon. Throughout the show Leigh will highlight some of Bette’s more memorable moments of her career and introduce you to some of the world’s most famous celebrities the stage has to offer. you will see Reba, Liza, Lady Gaga, Cher, Patti LaBelle & more.
TRIBUTE TUESDAY: A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO THE ORIGINAL LEGENDS When: Jun. 18, 2019 | 8 p.m. Where: Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven www.theatrewinterhaven.com Musical Tribute to the Original Legends with Johnny Wild & The Delights! (863) 294-7469. WEDNESDAY WEED WARRIORS When: Jun. 19, 2019 | 8:15 a.m. Where: Circle B Bar Reserve 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland Bring your favorite pair of gloves, and some water and plan to spend a couple of hours (or as long as you can last) removing Caesar weed. The Nature Discovery Center doesn’t open until 9 am so please meet us behind the Nature Center at 8:15 am. Contact Tabitha Biehl at Polk’s Nature Discovery Center: (863) 668-4673 for more information.
DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org/ Purchase fresh produce, plants and local handcrafted items. The 11-month Market (closed in August) is a showcase for the talents and the work of local artisans and local growers. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). LAKE WALES FARMERS MARKET When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: 20 N. Market Street, Lake Wales lwmainstreet.com/farmers-market The Lake Wales Downtown Farmers Market creates a sense of place, a feeling of belonging, and the promise of a brighter future. The Lake Wales Downtown Farmer’s Market offers everything from fresh eggs to citrus trees, from honey to handmade soaps, hot sauce and so much more!
RED TENT WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS When: Jun. 19, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Catapult Lakeland 331 S Florida Ave, Lakeland redtentinitiative.org Join us the third Wednesday of each month for a wellness meet up, free and open to all.*Donations to Red Tent and/or tips to the featured guest/s will be accepted. Jun 19: Writing Workshop/Cathleen Nelson
SUMMER FUN DAYS When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales www.lakewalesfl.gov Special guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations, artifact discovery, tours with the curator, art projects, storytelling, fun snacks, dress up activities for the whole family are offered throughout Saturdays in the summertime with all kinds of different history themes. Sponsored by Florida’s Natural Growers. Free to the public. (863) 676-1759.
CRAFT BEER CRAWL When: Jun. 20, 2019 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Downtown Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com/events/craft-beer-crawl-2019 Come explore Downtown Winter Haven while trying over 25 specialty craft beers in our participating shops and businesses! Pre-order your tasting mug and map online and pick them up on the corner of Central Ave and 4th Street NW at 5:30PM to begin the crawl. RUSH MORGAN LIVE When: Jun. 20, 2019 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St., Lakeland www.rushmorgan.com
1ST ANNUAL WOMEN, WILDERNESS, & FAITH RETREAT When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Where: Rocking H Ranch 2200 Ewell Rd, Lakeland www.centralfloridatix.com Come prepared to enjoy a day planned for you; full of adventure, arts, archery, and outdoor sessions designed to remind you of your strength, ability, and grace. Breakfast to Dinner is packed with opportunities to enjoy, relax, learn, and fellowship. Bring a bag and plan to stay for the day!
HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION CHAPTER MEETING When: Jun. 20, 2019 | 6-7:30 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian of Lakeland 175 Lake Hollingsworth, Lakeland www.hla-lakeland.org Every 3rd Thursday of the month in the Multipurpose Room A175. Enjoy frequent guest speakers who cover 35
Speakers come with amazing stories of transformation, hope, and love. For more information on speakers visit us on FaceBook at Women, Wilderness, and Faith or send us a message at WomenWildernessFaith@gmail.com. CENTRAL FLORIDA WHEELS OF STEEL When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland cfwheelsofsteel.com/ Florida’s largest indoor custom motorcycle show is coming to the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. All ages are welcome for this family-friendly event brought to you by the Early Learning Coalition of Polk County. At the Central Florida Wheels of Steel there will be a variety of vendors, music, food, drinks, and a chance to win prizes. Stay until the end of the day to see who will receive a trophy for the best in each class as part of a special award ceremony. The final highlight of the event will feature a grand prize ticket drawing for the winner of a customized motorcycle.Cost to attend the event will be $20 per adult with free parking. All children under 12 are free. PAUL FULLERTON: FORCES OF NATURE When: Jun. 22 through Nov. 10, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Born in Minnesota and raised in Fort Myers, Paul Fullerton earned his bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Florida in 1967 under the late Hiram Williams. He received his master’s degree in painting, printmaking, and sculpture in 1969 from the University of Illinois. While serving as associate professor of sculpture at Wayne State University in Detroit, he developed the molding and casting process that is characteristic of a large and important body of his work — the cast metal reliefs that will be on view in the Polk Museum of Art Sculpture Garden this summer and fall. (863) 688-7743 VSA ARTS K-12 When: Jun. 22 through Sept. 01, 2019 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Artwork by Polk County Students Grades K through 12. This exhibition is organized in collaboration with VSA Florida, whose mission is to provide, support and champion arts education and cultural experiences for and by people with disabilities. (863) 688-7743 WHAT IS HINDUISM ALL ABOUT? THE YOGA OF HINDUISM When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 1-3 p.m. Where: Inside Out Yoga 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com/ Taught by: Rishi Rambarran. $25.00 in advance $30.00 at the door. e-mail: drkathy@drkathytei.com for more info. Topics covered: Origins, Religious text, Beliefs, Practices, Philosophy, How to apply peace to the world. The instructor is Rishi Rambarran he is a student of Hindu religion and a practitioner. He is currently striving for a PhD in philosophy of religion. SATURDAY AFTERNOON FAMILY MOVIES When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 2-4 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. LAKE WALES CAR SHOW When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 4-7 p.m. Where: Downtown Lake Wales, Stuart Ave. lwmainstreet.com/car-show THE ART OF FILM: MORVERN CALLER (2002) When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 6-8:30 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org 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. Morvern Caller
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(2002) Synopsis: When her boyfriend commits suicide, unambitious Glasgow clerk Morvern Callar (Samantha Morton) invents various stories to explain his absence. After several days, she chops up and buries the body. She then finds a novel he completed before killing himself and sends it to several publishing houses as her own work. When the book is bought, Morvern uses her first payment to take a Spanish vacation with her best friend, Lana (Kathleen McDermott), which turns out to be a surprising emotional journey. Doors open at 6:00 pm, Introduction and Screening at 6:30 pm. The Art of Film is free to attend. Cash bar available. (863) 688-7743. LAKELAND TROPICS VS SARASOTA When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Bryant Stadium 1125 N Florida Ave, Lakeland www.fltropics.com Kick-off at 7 pm, bring your family and friends to cheer on your favorite team! SANKOFA CHORALE: SALUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN & NANCY WILSON When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 7 p.m. Where: Polk State/Winter Haven 999 Avenue H N.E., Winter Haven 6pm Social, 7pm performance at the PSC Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre. (863) 604-5415. SMART MOUTH When: Jun. 22, 2019 | 8 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Singing, Comedy, Poetry, Live Music & More featuring: Comedian: Barak Amen. A talented comedian and native of Florida, Barak catapulted in 2009 when he took the comedy scene by storm opening for Def Jam comedian Shawty Shawty from Atlanta. 2015 Bay Area Community Awards Comedian of the Year.Poet: Blu Bailey, DJ: AntA turntable master, and Hosted by Jason “J.A.” Alexander. Tickets starting at $10 (early bird special). TONI BROWN TRIO When: Jun. 23, 2019 | 2-5 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Toni Brown Trio, performing blues, country, classic rock and original music. Join us for Brunch & Brew, and some sultry summer songs. ABSTRACT - A PERFORMING ARTS SERIES: ELECTRIC YOUTH When: Jun. 23, 2019 | 2:30 p.m. Where: Florida Dance Theatre 305 W Main St., Lakeland GRUBB Arts, LLC, in collaboration with The Working Artist Studio and Gallery and Florida Dance Theatre, presents “Abstract - A Performing Arts Series,” inspired by Tapestries Lakeland. Each General Admission show will have limited seating available and will feature different Tapestries Lakeland paintings paired with Performing Art in various media; dance, song, and spoken word.Sunday at 2:30pm. JUN 23 - “Electric Youth.” Following each performance will be a reception where featured artists’ works will be available for sale. More info on Facebook @grubbarts
24-30 INTRO TO ART FOR YOUTH WITH JENNY GRENKE When: Jun. 24, 2019 | 4-5 p.m. Where: Florida Wildflower Studios 12 East Wall St., Frostproof Florida Wildflower Studios is a community-oriented working art studio and gallery open to the public. For more information, stop by 12 East Wall St, Frostproof, or call (863) 206-9691 or (863) 855-8525. CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 25, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City https://hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, they get to paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10.
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. CLEARWATER When: Jun. 26, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075.
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. JUPITER When: Jun. 28, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075.
CREATIVE WRITING CRITIQUE GROUP When: Jun. 27, 2019 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven This group meets on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month. Attendees share and critique their writings. All aspiring writers are welcome.Questions? Send email to wekeig@ gmail.com
DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET When: Jun. 29, 2019 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org/ Purchase fresh produce, plants and local handcrafted items. The 11-month Market (closed in August) is a showcase for the talents and the work of local artisans and local growers. The Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA).
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. CLEARWATER When: Jun. 27, 2019 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075. YOGA CLASS When: Jun. 27, 2019 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve 945 Mackay Blvd, Lake Alfred mylakealfred.com Every Thursday evening at the Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve. Everyone is welcome, just bring a mat and an open heart. Donations will be accepted although the class is free.
LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. CLEARWATER When: Jun. 25, 2019 | 10:30 a.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Summer camps from across Polk County will be in attendance. Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075.
CERAMICS CLASS When: Jun. 28, 2019 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City hainescity.com This is a self-guided ongoing class, where participants choose their piece to be poured into a mold and then fired on site. Once it is finished, they get to paint it! This class is held on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Art Room at Lake Eva Community Center. You must be 18 years or older to join. (863) 421-3700. $2 per class plus yearly Parks & Rec fee of $10.
BIG ORIENTATION & TRAINING When: Jun. 25, 2019 | 5:30-7 p.m. Where: BBBS Office, 1231 Orange St., Lakeland 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 I-4 COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR CONFERENCE When: Jun. 28, 2019 | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Florida Polytechnic University 4700 Research Way, Lakeland i4commercial.com Addresses the latest commercial real estate news and trends associated with the I-4 Corridor, including insights and analysis from top market experts. The conference consists of break out sessions with focused discussions that will take place throughout the conference. Sessions will include topics like: Opportunity Zones vs. 1031 Exchanges, The Future of Branch Banks, Power Companies, Entertainment Panel, Suntrax and more. This event is presented by SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler Real Estate of Lakeland, Florida. $45.
DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF EAST POLK/ RIDGE When: Jun. 25, 2019 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: The R-place Eatery Restaurant 35523 Hwy 27, Haines City. The Democratic Women’s Club of East Polk/Ridge meets every 4th Tuesday. 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 WEDNESDAY WEED WARRIORS When: Jun. 26, 2019 | 8:15 a.m. Where: Circle B Bar Reserve 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland Bring your favorite pair of gloves, and some water and plan to spend a couple of hours (or as long as you can last) removing Caesar weed. The Nature Discovery Center doesn’t open until 9 am so please meet behind the Nature Center at 8:15 am. Contact Tabitha Biehl at Polk’s Nature Discovery Center: (863) 668-4673 for more information.
BREW HUB’S NIGHT MARKET When: Jun. 28, 2019 | 6 p.m. Where: Brew Hub, 3900 Frontage Rd. S, Lakeland Featuring a rotating lineup of artists and makers selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, wood-work, gifts and so much more! This is a family-friendly event, enjoy your favorite beer, food, and shop under the stars!
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SUMMER FUN DAYS When: Jun. 29, 2019 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales www.lakewalesfl.gov Special guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations, artifact discovery, tours with the curator, art projects, storytelling, fun snacks, dress up activities for the whole family are offered throughout Saturdays in the summertime with all kinds of different history themes. Sponsored by Florida’s Natural Growers. Free to the public. (863) 676-1759. COFFEE WITH ARTIST: LINDA FINCH When: Jun. 29, 2019 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Please join us for a coffee reception with artist Linda Finch to celebrate her exhibition. (863) 688-7743. LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. JUPITER When: Jun. 29, 2019 | 6 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075 LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS. JUPITER When: Jun. 30, 2019 | 1 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland www.milb.com Minor League Baseball. (863) 686-8075. Every Sunday home game, enjoy brunch in the 34 Club Presented by Miller Lite from 12:00 until 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $24 in advance and $27 on the day of game.
SOLD HOMES
307 NORTH BLVD.............................DAVENPORT..........4/19/2019.......... $158,000 142 BAYPOINT DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 4/23/2019..........$184,000 3345 SONDER DR.............................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019......... $258,000 386 BRIAR PATCH LOOP...................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019..........$256,000 302 PICCOLO WAY...........................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019........... $121,000 424 WINDSOR PL.............................DAVENPORT.......... 4/17/2019.......... $193,000 3321 SONDER DR..............................DAVENPORT..........4/18/2019..........$229,000 3188 SERENDIPITY WAY...................DAVENPORT..........4/18/2019..........$262,000 352 DREAMA DR...............................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019............$75,000 530 NESBITT PARK AVE....................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019............ $97,500 224 CAMBRIA AVE............................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019...........$147,000 232 WASHINGTON PALM LOOP.......DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019.......... $145,000 429 COCONUT PALM WAY...............DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019..........$146,000 525 OGELTHORPE DR.......................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019..........$365,500 220 BELLA VERANO WAY.................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019......... $306,300 1215 WOODLARK DR.........................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019.......... $213,000 162 JOCELYN DR................................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019.......... $218,500 711 CARIBBEAN DR............................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019.......... $155,000 630 CHALLENGER AVE.....................DAVENPORT..........4/16/2019.......... $124,000 381 HOLLY BERRY DR.......................DAVENPORT.......... 4/17/2019..........$236,300
BARTOW
1185 W MCLEOD ST................................ BARTOW..........4/10/2019.......... $134,000 114 FRANCIS SCOTT KEY RD.................. BARTOW...........4/11/2019...........$129,900 903 S LAKEVIEW AVE............................ BARTOW..........4/12/2019.......... $150,000 1745 COVE CIR....................................... BARTOW..........4/15/2019............ $115,100 341 W DAVIDSON ST.............................. BARTOW..........4/15/2019........... $65,000 299 WINGATE RD.................................. BARTOW..........4/16/2019......... $550,000 1705 JACKSON OAKS DR........................ BARTOW.......... 4/17/2019..........$233,000 1384 LAUREL GLEN DR.......................... BARTOW.......... 4/17/2019..........$188,000 725 FORREST DR................................... BARTOW..........4/18/2019.......... $143,000
DAVENPORT 316 CHELSEA AVE.............................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019.......... $427,000 836 LOBELIA DR...............................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019.......... $227,000 316 HEATHER HILL BLVD...................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019......... $200,000 535 DELANCEY DR...........................DAVENPORT..........4/10/2019.......... $210,000 213 SUNSET CT.................................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019..........$225,000 5276 OAKBOURNE AVE....................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019...........$447,100 216 VERVAIN AVE..............................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019...........$159,300 1364 OAKCREST CT..........................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019..........$295,000 2178 SHERBROOK AVE.....................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019..........$295,000 2106 SHERBROOK AVE.....................DAVENPORT...........4/11/2019......... $330,000 711 TERRACE RIDGE CIR....................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019..........$140,000 417 SUMMER SQUALL RD.................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019.......... $322,900 3061 BROOK STONE TER..................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019.......... $284,100 152 GOLF COURSE PKWY.................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019......... $260,000 430 BRUNSWICK DR........................DAVENPORT..........4/12/2019......... $280,900 311 ROYAL TROON LOOP..................DAVENPORT..........4/13/2019........... $90,000 575 TUPELO CIR...............................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019.......... $200,100 5440 MISTY OAK CIR.......................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019......... $429,400 42769 HIGHWAY 27 LOT 118............DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019............$75,000 42769 HIGHWAY 27 LOT 141............DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019............ $67,000 516 GARY PLAYER DR.......................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019............ $67,000 229 GRANADA LN.............................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019......... $286,000 249 CHINA BERRY CIR......................DAVENPORT..........4/15/2019.......... $199,000 204 CYPRESS ST...............................DAVENPORT..........4/16/2019.......... $195,000 443 WHITTIER ST.............................DAVENPORT.......... 4/17/2019.......... $247,000 5545 MISTY OAK CIR........................DAVENPORT.......... 4/17/2019......... $435,000 221 MONTORO LN............................DAVENPORT.......... 4/17/2019.......... $255,300 534 CITRUS ISLE BLVD.....................DAVENPORT.......... 4/17/2019........... $231,700 104 PANDA WAY...............................DAVENPORT..........4/18/2019.......... $235,500 9 BAY ST...........................................DAVENPORT..........4/18/2019.......... $214,900
HAINES CITY 303 THOMASDALE AVE................... HAINES CITY..........4/10/2019......... $205,000 331 EAGLECREST DR........................ HAINES CITY..........4/10/2019..........$226,000 653 MEADOW POINTE DR............... HAINES CITY..........4/10/2019...........$227,900 1960 SOUTHERN DUNES BLVD....... HAINES CITY..........4/10/2019...........$221,000 137 ANGELA’S AVE........................... HAINES CITY..........4/10/2019.......... $361,400 649 PERSIAN DR.............................. HAINES CITY...........4/11/2019......... $240,400 134 MILESTONE DR.......................... HAINES CITY...........4/11/2019..........$265,900 701 PERSIAN DR............................... HAINES CITY..........4/12/2019.......... $214,900 384 ROOKS LOOP........................... HAINES CITY..........4/12/2019..........$230,200 520 BLUE WATER CT........................ HAINES CITY..........4/12/2019..........$256,500 624 ASTOR DR................................. HAINES CITY..........4/12/2019......... $206,000 33 PIPER PASS.................................. HAINES CITY..........4/12/2019.......... $179,000 25 BASS ST....................................... HAINES CITY..........4/12/2019.......... $175,000 54 PERCH ST.................................... HAINES CITY..........4/13/2019...........$333,100 806 JEFFERSON BLVD...................... HAINES CITY..........4/15/2019..........$207,000 492 MONTICELLI DR....................... HAINES CITY..........4/15/2019........... $213,286 209 AIDANS LDG............................. HAINES CITY..........4/15/2019.......... $361,400 509 S 14TH ST.................................. HAINES CITY..........4/15/2019.......... $150,000 2 2ND CT.......................................... HAINES CITY..........4/15/2019........... $63,000 532 MONTICELLI DR........................ HAINES CITY..........4/16/2019..........$233,400 130 ANGELAS AVE........................... HAINES CITY..........4/16/2019.........$408,400 1900 WATKINS RD........................... HAINES CITY..........4/16/2019...........$157,000
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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 37
863-604-6220
444 HAMMERSTONE AVE............... HAINES CITY.......... 4/17/2019......... $204,900 516 BLUE WATER CT........................ HAINES CITY..........4/18/2019..........$245,500 206 BROOKES PL............................. HAINES CITY..........4/18/2019.......... $381,500 1090 SHADY CV............................... HAINES CITY..........4/18/2019.........$440,000 10809 JIM EDWARDS RD.................. HAINES CITY..........4/18/2019..........$180,000 63 PINE FOREST DR......................... HAINES CITY..........4/19/2019......... $380,000 5700 JENNINGS RD.......................... HAINES CITY......... 4/22/2019.............$55,100
402 CARLETON ST............................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$203,500 711 BARBER CIR................................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019........... $121,000 2315 NEVADA RD................................ LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $419,900 3385 KILMER DR................................. LAKELAND..........4/16/2019..........$106,000 110 CARLETON ST............................... LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019......... $960,000 3031 WILLOW AVE.............................. LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019.......... $182,000 530 YOUNG PL................................... LAKELAND..........4/18/2019.......... $145,300 0 FAIRBANKS AVE............................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019......... $350,000 861 E LOWELL ST................................ LAKELAND...........4/11/2019........... $80,000 1108 LAKESHORE DR.......................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019...........$107,000 115 GLENWOOD DR............................ LAKELAND..........4/12/2019............ $67,000 1025 N MARION AVE........................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019............ $67,000 2315 TIMBERCREEK LOOP.................. LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $139,900 1723 FLORIDA AVE.............................. LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019..........$160,000 1226 SPINNAKER DR........................... LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019.......... $166,900 6208 RAVEN RUN............................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019.......... $135,000 5430 LIMESTONE LN.......................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019........... $101,500 141 CREEKWOOD RUN....................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019........... $62,000 8251 WILDER LOOP............................ LAKELAND...........4/11/2019...........$281,200 429 WILDLIFE TRL.............................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019............ $80,100 5832 SANDPIPER DR........................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$180,000 5719 BAMBI DR................................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $120,200 817 ROCKINGHAM RD........................ LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $199,000 6940 WELLSFORD DR........................ LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $146,200 6380 EGRET DR APT 15....................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019.......... $120,000 7542 GUNSTOCK DR.......................... LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019....... $1,693,000 5800 CRANE DR................................. LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019.......... $210,000 5375 QUARRY ROCK RD.................... LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019...........$123,300 264 CONNIE LEE CT............................ LAKELAND..........4/18/2019.......... $175,000 628 ROCKINGHAM RD....................... LAKELAND..........4/18/2019........... $171,000 1716 PRIMA LAGO TER....................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019......... $343,800 1814 ALTAVISTA CIR............................ LAKELAND..........4/10/2019......... $263,000 1764 ASHWORTH LOOP..................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019............$72,400 2336 HAMLET CIR.............................. LAKELAND...........4/11/2019..........$224,900 11956 LAKELAND ACRES RD............... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019......... $626,000 8433 TOMOKA RUN........................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019.......... $179,000 2890 DUNHILL CIR............................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$265,000 2541 EVERLETH DR............................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019.......... $175,000 5395 OXFORD MANOR CIR................ LAKELAND..........4/12/2019...........$221,000 7228 REMINGTON OAKS DR............... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019......... $242,000 3835 SAWGRASS CT........................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $185,000 3828 EXETER LN................................. LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $158,000 2539 BOOTS RD.................................. LAKELAND..........4/16/2019......... $205,000 7173 CEDARCREST BLVD.................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019.......... $175,000 3277 HAWKS RIDGE DR...................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019......... $294,000 5531 BLOOMFIELD BLVD..................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019..........$272,000 3004 HONEOYE TRL.......................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019............$55,000 8746 FORT SOCRUM VILLAGE PL....... LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019.......... $214,000 7589 DOVE MEADOW TRL................. LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019............$73,500 5006 BRIDLE PATH DR....................... LAKELAND..........4/18/2019............$75,000 3016 COBBLER SQUARE LN................ LAKELAND..........4/19/2019.......... $183,000 4918 LOG CABIN DR........................... LAKELAND......... 4/22/2019.......... $310,000 5193 ASHWOOD DR........................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019......... $208,000 3317 SONGBIRD LN............................. LAKELAND...........4/11/2019.......... $216,000 4386 WHISTLEWOOD CIR................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$234,900 3772 PEREGRINE WAY........................ LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$246,500 1426 CYPRESS VIEW LN...................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019............ $51,000 6005 TANCREDE CT........................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $105,000
LAKE ALFRED 124 SANDHILL CRANE LN............... LAKE ALFRED...........4/11/2019..........$259,900 156 SANDHILL CRANE LN............... LAKE ALFRED..........4/15/2019........... $257,100 250 AMARYLLIS WAY..................... LAKE ALFRED.......... 4/17/2019............$55,000 435 HOFFMAN ST........................... LAKE ALFRED..........4/18/2019..........$226,900 255 AMARYLLIS WAY...................... LAKE ALFRED..........4/19/2019............$55,000
LAKE WALES 16 WOODRUFF WAY.........................LAKE WALES..........4/10/2019............ $67,000 848 WILDABON AVE........................LAKE WALES..........4/12/2019.......... $195,000 4740 DUCK KEY ST...........................LAKE WALES..........4/12/2019........... $95,000 1095 TEQUESTA TRL.........................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019........... $171,000 69 MOUNTAIN LAKE........................LAKE WALES..........4/16/2019.......$1,000,000 208 BULLARD AVE...........................LAKE WALES..........4/19/2019........... $85,000 4159 ABERDEEN LN..........................LAKE WALES..........4/10/2019.......... $163,000 4307 GULLANE DR...........................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019...........$237,500 4464 TURNBERRY LN.......................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019..........$140,000 2106 ASHTON PALMS DR..................LAKE WALES..........4/16/2019..........$160,000 273 BROOKSHIRE DR.......................LAKE WALES.......... 4/17/2019......... $243,000 355 BEAR TRL...................................LAKE WALES...........4/11/2019........... $95,000 2632 EAGLE CT.................................LAKE WALES..........4/12/2019..........$375,000 75 MOUNTAIN LAKE.........................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019.........$400,000 2424 CAPPS RD................................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019..........$265,000 35 QUEEN OF WATERS ST................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019............$74,000 3495 AMELLIA ST.............................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019..........$235,000 11417 STATE ROAD 60.......................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019..........$410,000 4313 CLUB CIR..................................LAKE WALES..........4/15/2019........... $60,000 2608 SUNSET PLACE DR..................LAKE WALES.......... 4/17/2019........... $65,000 2609 SUNSET PLACE DR..................LAKE WALES.......... 4/17/2019........... $65,000 91 ROSALIE OAKS BLVD....................LAKE WALES..........4/18/2019........... $85,000 2842 ROSALIE LAKE RD....................LAKE WALES..........4/18/2019..........$100,000
LAKELAND 2244 E MAGNOLIA ST......................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019........... $96,600 721 PARK HILL AVE.............................. LAKELAND...........4/11/2019......... $230,000 118 BLUEFIELD AVE............................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019............$75,000 2302 CRYSTAL LAKE DR..................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019.......... $145,000 1517 REYNOLDS RD............................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019......... $230,000 3127 MAINE AVE.................................. LAKELAND..........4/12/2019.......... $212,000 911 LAKE AVE...................................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019............$58,900 837 LEMON ST.................................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019.......... $130,000 1101 WATERFALL LN............................ LAKELAND..........4/10/2019............$78,900 627 QUEENS LOOP N.......................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019.......... $196,000 202 LENOX ST..................................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019.......... $143,500 730 BARBER CIR................................. LAKELAND...........4/11/2019........... $50,000 2025 SYLVESTER RD........................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019............$75,000 2515 LAUREL GLEN DR........................ LAKELAND..........4/12/2019......... $380,000 1744 LAUREL GLEN PL......................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019.......... $412,200 3265 STONEWATER DR...................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$253,400 509 QUEENS LOOP............................ LAKELAND..........4/12/2019...........$172,500 323 KERNEYWOOD ST....................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019........... $187,500 625 GLENDALE ST............................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019.......... $162,000 havenmagazines.com
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1035 STONEY CREEK DR..................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $331,000 6034 WHITE TAIL LOOP..................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019........... $217,900 6445 SEDGEFORD DR........................ LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $170,000 5952 VALENTINO WAY....................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019......... $300,300 4086 WINDING VINE DR.................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019.......... $145,000 6190 GRACIE PL.................................. LAKELAND...........4/11/2019..........$285,900 3826 HILL ST....................................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$140,000 6167 GRACIE PL.................................. LAKELAND..........4/13/2019......... $263,000 4053 SHADE TREE LANE LN............... LAKELAND..........4/19/2019.......... $150,000 535 HARDENOAK BLVD...................... LAKELAND..........4/10/2019........... $141,500 3140 LITTLE VALLEY WAY................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019.......... $150,000 0 EVERGREEN PARK DR..................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019........... $59,000 2568 COLONEL FORD DR................... LAKELAND...........4/11/2019.......... $247,000 2055 ROCKY POINTE DR.................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019..........$207,000 6589 FOX CREST LN........................... LAKELAND..........4/12/2019......... $202,000 4504 S FLORIDA AVE.......................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019......... $500,000 4403 LAUREL POINTE DR.................. LAKELAND..........4/15/2019..........$242,500 1136 PALACE PL................................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $227,000 6731 HILLIS DR.................................... LAKELAND..........4/15/2019.......... $307,500 6532 FOX TREE LN.............................. LAKELAND..........4/15/2019......... $230,000 4540 DAIL RD..................................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019..........$190,000 6942 SHIMMERING DR....................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019...........$155,200 2007 WOODBRIAR LOOP................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019.......... $149,000 2022 WINDWARD PASS...................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019.......... $156,500 6273 BUTTERNUT DR......................... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019.......... $194,900 7133 LAKE EAGLEBROOKE DR............ LAKELAND..........4/16/2019..........$232,000 1368 EVERGREEN PARK CIR............... LAKELAND..........4/16/2019........... $59,000 5323 RAY PL........................................ LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019.......... $178,900 5503 ORANGE VALLEY CT................. LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019......... $205,000 1516 CORDGRASS WAY....................... LAKELAND.......... 4/17/2019...........$329,100 2842 WHITNEY ST.............................. LAKELAND..........4/19/2019..........$259,900 605 OSPREY LANDING DR................. LAKELAND......... 4/23/2019......... $370,000
1145 HAINES DR...........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019..........$100,000 1151 HAINES DR............................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019..........$100,000 5735 LAKESIDE LANDINGS BLVD.WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019.......... $207,500 1677 LEMON AVE.........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019........... $59,000 1677 LEMON AVE.........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019........... $83,000 1665 LEMON AVE.........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019........... $59,000 1665 LEMON AVE.........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019........... $83,000 3176 KIWI AVE..............................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019..........$242,800 1507 SW 7TH ST...........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019............$82,500 1103 HAINES DR...........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019........... $181,500 3712 OSBORN HARBOR LN..........WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019......... $385,000 3037 ROYAL TERN DR.................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019......... $242,000 927 NW AVENUE Z.......................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019..........$148,000 3104 COUNTRY CLUB CIR..........WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019......... $224,000 2461 29TH ST...............................WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019.............$59,100 279 LAKE LUCERNE WAY.............WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019......... $230,000 383 WINTER RIDGE BLVD............WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019............$62,500 3724 JULIUS ESTATES BLVD.........WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019......... $230,000 3113 ROYAL TERN DR...................WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019.......... $216,000 3058 ROYAL TERN DR.................WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019.......... $215,000 4610 PALMETTO DR....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019........... $98,500 4858 ST JAMES CT.......................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019.......... $219,000 6375 LOLLY BAY LOOP................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019........... $98,000 6074 GREY HERON DR................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019.......... $210,000 720 HERITAGE DR........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019......... $360,000 4270 ROBERTA DR......................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019......... $430,500 2277 ROSE BLVD..........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019.......... $199,000 2453 TWIN LAKE VIEW RD..........WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019...........$237,200 5847 MARSH LANDING DR..........WINTER HAVEN.......... 4/17/2019......... $203,000 704 NE 17TH ST............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 4/17/2019.......... $139,000 1078 HAINES DR..........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019.......... $196,000 1203 NW 8TH ST..........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019............$72,000 3147 COUNTRY CLUB CIR...........WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019...........$221,000 222 AVENUE D.............................WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019........... $157,500 371 SUNFISH DR...........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/19/2019.......... $223,500 1039 BILTMORE DR......................WINTER HAVEN......... 4/26/2019.......... $145,000 1225 28TH ST...............................WINTER HAVEN.........4/30/2019............$72,900 1690 LINZ CT...............................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019............$211,200 449 BROWARD TER.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019.......... $175,000 43 SAINT KITTS CIR.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019...........$174,900 102 WODEN WAY.........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019.......... $314,000 2530 PARTRIDGE DR...................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019..........$410,000 3321 RALEIGH DR.........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019.......... $155,000 5057 BRENTON MANOR AVE......WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019.......... $196,500 607 LYNDSEY LN.........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019.......... $172,000 3918 BEDFORD AVE.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019......... $250,000 1375 OAKMONT DR.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019..........$302,900 2244 FIRESTONE PL.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019.......... $135,000 5835 RED FOX DR........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019.......... $120,000 5946 SILVER FOX DR...................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019............$55,000 159 ELOISE OAKS DR...................WINTER HAVEN..........4/13/2019..........$249,700 1107 MEADOW LARK LN..............WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019.......... $159,000 6245 PINEHURST LOOP..............WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019......... $365,000 9705 LAKE BESS RD LOT 786.......WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019............$75,000 104 POE DR..................................WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019.......... $159,900 4684 CYPRESS GARDENS RD UNIT 3.WINTER HAVEN...4/18/2019.......... $129,000 376 LAKE DAISY CIR....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019.......... $155,000 4576 BACK NINE WAY..................WINTER HAVEN......... 4/20/2019..........$228,500
WINTER HAVEN 262 LAKE THOMAS DR................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019.......... $159,900 840 SE PIEDMONT DR.................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019........... $217,000 900 AVENUE Z.............................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019............$53,000 137 MANSEAU DR........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019.......... $149,900 931 BUCCANEER BLVD................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019......... $203,000 232 SOLIS DR...............................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019.......... $183,000 115 1ST ST.....................................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019.............$55,100 108 1ST ST....................................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019.............$55,100 118 FALL GLO RD..........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019.......... $185,000 188 SOLIS DR...............................WINTER HAVEN..........4/12/2019........... $177,600 4243 THOMAS WOOD LN...........WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019...........$213,900 196 WATERSIDE CIR.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019.......... $210,000 3983 JACLYNS JETTY...................WINTER HAVEN..........4/15/2019.......... $189,900 2085 ISLE ROYALE CT SE, APT 187.WINTER HAVEN........4/16/2019...........$116,000 2085 ISLE ROYALE CT..................WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019...........$116,000 480 LAKE ELOISE POINTE BLVD.. WINTER HAVEN..........4/16/2019...........$101,000 950 DEMING DR..........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019...........$221,600 1415 HIDDEN CREEK LN...............WINTER HAVEN..........4/18/2019......... $364,000 1916 EMILY BLVD..........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/19/2019......... $209,900 3017 WALNUT ST.........................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019........... $70,800 227 PALMETTO AVE.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019.......... $170,000 227 PALMETTO AVE.....................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019..........$190,000 1718 TERRY CIR............................WINTER HAVEN..........4/10/2019.......... $162,000 1234 HAINES DR...........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019..........$100,000 1097 HAINES DR..........................WINTER HAVEN...........4/11/2019..........$100,000 39
WORDS & PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida Sunday Market Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida (or Wat Tampa as most people call it) is a Theravada Buddhist Temple for religious ceremonies, meditation, and Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) study. It was established in 1981 and moved to its current location in 1983. The Sunday Market started in 1987 with only two tables and has since grown into a food paradise for thousands of people every Sunday. Volunteers serve authentic Thai food prepared by Temple volunteers from 8:30 a.m. until about 1 p.m. with all proceeds going back to Wat Tampa. Most menu items are $6 or less, here are a few: • Grilled pork or chicken on a stick – my favorite of the day • Pad Thai - vegetable and noodles – they were already out when we got there • Various chicken curry dishes with vegetables – we tried the pumpkin curry-so good! • Egg rolls • “Guiteow” – Beef or pork noodle soup • “Som Dom” – Thai Papaya salad • Fried bananas, taro root, and sweet potatoes – huge servings & delish! • A wide variety of Thai desserts • Thai tea and Thai coffee made with sweet cream You can get your food packed to-go, or stay and eat right there. Just steps away underneath the shade of mature trees are plenty of picnic tables where you can sit and hang out. Each menu item is more than enough for one person, so there’s always plenty to share. If you’re with a crowd it’s fun to have everyone get something different so you can try everything. It’s always crowded, when you see a spot open, grab it! This is a family-friendly environment and a fun way to try all kinds of food without spending a lot of money. While you’re there, you can also shop for Thai fruit trees, herbs, orchids and hanging plants in the delightful outdoor Plant Market next to the picnic tables. I bought a Holy Basil plant for $5 and an orchid that I have already managed to kill for only $12. The Holy Basil is still going strong, though! Visitors can also go inside Wat Tampa if they’d like, to see inside of a Buddhist Temple. Please remove your shoes and leave them outside. The Sunday Market accepts CASH ONLY, so come prepared. The Wat Tampa is a very beautiful place with traditional Thai architecture and even a dragon or two. Restrooms are clean and easily accessible. My best advice is to arrive early and don’t let the lines fool you, they go quick. EXTRA: You’ve finished eating and still want to stay in Tampa a bit longer? Visit the new Sparkman Wharf along Garrison Channel in downtown. SW is a collection of shipping containers turned into tiny food shops and a full bar so you can grab an afternoon margarita and look at the water before you head back. Have fun exploring Tampa! Wat Tampa 5306 Palm River Rd. Tampa, Florida 33619 Sunday Market is open from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.
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