HAVEN July 2021 by HAVEN & LKLD Magazines

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Manasota Permit #1092 Postal Customer ECRWSS

Letter From the Editor

ON THE COVER FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Gaskins Barbecue & Lobster, Nutwood, Andy’s Igloo, Tempo 1930, and a double Burger Bunker.

Happy 4th of July! Our feature story is about one of our favorite foods to eat at a summer party, cheeseburgers! It’s one of my personal favorite foods, and it’s always the answer I give to the question, “If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life...” We’ve included burgers and plant-based burgers from 50 restaurants around Polk County. Two of my absolute favorites are Adler’s classic burger and the Impossible burger from Super Duper Spot. We had fun putting together the list and tasting several of the cheeseburgers. Check out our “Staff Picks” to see which ones we loved the most. We visit with musician Daniel Pepin who has been wowing local crowds with his Spanishstyle guitar. Learn more about him and where he will be playing next in our profile section. If you get a chance, go watch him play, he’s amazing! We also talk with Derrick McBride, a local author, and motivational speaker. Find out about his new book and why he thinks it’s important for young people to read it. We get the latest news on the Honeycomb Bread Baker’s Winter Haven location, expected to open in late July. Find out Benjamin’s plans for the new breakfast and lunch menu he will be serving. After we read Tara’s story, I have to admit, we’re all very excited about his plans and can’t wait for it to open. Our calendar of events is slowly growing again! If you have an event that you’d like to see in the August issue, please send me the details. Keep tagging #kindachill on your Facebook and Instagram posts and you might find it in the next issue of Haven, we love sharing them! Have a happy summer & a safe 4th of July! Amy Sexson Editor/Partner amy@havenmagazines.com havenmagazines.com

J U LY

CONTENTS

BURGERS..........................................................................18 DANIEL PEPIN................................................................ 40 HONEYCOMB BREAD BAKERS.............................44 CHECK ME OUT ;).......................................................50 ONE SEARCH FOR ALL............................................. 52

5.......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 8..................................................................LOCAL NEWS 10................................................................................TOP 10 48..................................................................... COCKTAIL 56.....................................................................CALENDAR 69...............................................................SOLD HOMES 75................................................................ #KINDACHILL

havenmagazines.com

July 2021 VOLUME 5 ISSUE 9 Publisher Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com Editor & Photographer Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com Managing Editor Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com Art & Production Manager Steven Maynard steven@destroyermedia.com Ad Director Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com Events & Marketing Jessica Parker jessica@destroyermedia.com Social Media Coordinator Angela Rosado angela@destroyermedia.com HAVEN is published twelve times a year by Destroyer Media & Marketing. Haven distributes 16,104 copies a month with 8,604 mailed to homes and 7,500 copies available at select locations throughout east Polk County. For advertising information please contact: christine@destroyermedia.com To submit to our calendar: amy@destroyermedia.com Office: PO Box 1607 Winter Haven, Florida 33881 863-225-8658

2017 Best Digital: Social Media 2018 Best Design: Cover Best Redesign 2019 Best Writing: Feature Best Advertisement: For a Client Best Photography: Cover 2020 Best Writing: Humor Best Digital: Social Media 2021 Best Writing: Humor Best Digital: Social Media Best Special Theme Issue Best Writing 7

LOCAL NEWS

MASK OPTIONAL

MAYOR DANTZLER

LEGO® VIDIYO™ MUSIC FEST

FREE MEALS FOR KIDS

Polk County Public Schools is no longer requiring students and staff to wear face coverings. The Polk County School Board voted unanimously to lift a requirement that students wear face coverings. The requirement for PCPS employees to wear face coverings is also being lifted. Face coverings will be optional for students and staff members for the 2021-22 school year. “We still continue to encourage masks for anybody who is not vaccinated, but we are giving the option and flexibility to families and staff to make those decisions,” said Frederick Heid, incoming PCPS superintendent. Students who opt to wear face coverings must comply with the general dress code and school uniform requirements.

The Florida League of Cities, the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, announced the appointment of City of Winter Haven Mayor Brad Dantzler to the Florida League of Cities 2021-2022 Legislative Policy Committee. As a Legislative Policy Committee member, Mayor Dantzler will help develop the League’s Legislative Action Agenda, which details priority issues likely to affect daily municipal governance and local decision-making during the upcoming legislative session, as well as help League staff understand the real-world implications of proposed legislation. Committee members are also asked to serve as advocates for local decision-making throughout the legislative process.

September 4, 5 & 6 at LEGOLAND Florida. This vibrant, interactive music festival will feature “dance-off” parties, interactive games, and popup performances. Colorful photo opportunities include larger-than-life scenes, and guests are encouraged to dress up as their favorite music artist to win prizes. All event activities are included with LEGOLAND Theme Park general admission. LEGOLAND has built extra fun into every month of 2021 as the theme park built for kids celebrates its tenth birthday. The yearlong birthday celebration includes new events, attractions, and shows. Join the party at LEGOLAND.com/florida

After schools close for the summer, kids and teens can still get free meals through Summer BreakSpot! No application is necessary, and pick up is easy at thousands of meal sites across Florida. Summer BreakSpot offers balanced breakfasts, lunches, snacks, or dinner. Locations include places like parks, libraries, and churches. Summer BreakSpot is available all summer long for kids and teens 18 and under. To find a location near you visit summerbreakspot.fdacs.gov. You can also Dial 2-1-1 or Text FOODFL to 877-877. New pick-up sites will be added to the map daily.

BOND CLINIC OPENS NEW FACILITY

PREPARE NOW

COMMUNITYFEST IS BACK!

SUMMER SEASON

Determine your risks and learn how to prepare for hurricanes and other natural disasters. Learn how to make an emergency plan that works for your family. Find out where local shelters are located, how to prepare your home and yard, what to do with your pet, how to create a digital inventory, and what you need to pack for the best emergency kit. Learn how much food and water you should have per person, as well as medicines and other supplies. Volunteer opportunities are available, please register online. Make sure to also register for Alert Polk to get up-to-date emergency information. Visit polk-county.net/ hurricane-preparedness.

CommunityFest Winter Haven, presented by Citizens Bank & Trust and the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, is a free family fun festival aimed at giving families a chance to enjoy a day-in-the-park with complimentary games and activities, and businesses the chance to give back to the community by setting up a booth with activities and more! This event will be held on Oct. 5 and will be located in downtown Winter Haven’s South Central, Central, and Virginia Miller Parks. Businesses interested in becoming involved or sponsoring can visit winterhavenchamber.com for more information.

The Winter Haven Farmers Market is continuing every Saturday throughout July and August at the same location with new hours. The Market features a wide selection of artisan food vendors, food trucks, plants, and a variety of makers/crafts. The market is held every Saturday rain or shine. Summer Season hours 8 am - 11 am. Check the Facebook page for weekly updates at @winterhavenfarmersmarket. The market is located in the award-winning downtown area, in the parking lot of the BB&T bank building. The lot is located on the NE corner of 3rd St and Ave C SW, across the street from Grove Roots Brewing Company. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

The new Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Facility at the Lakeland Complex is led by Dr. Carrie Goddin, PT, DPT. This new facility is the second physical therapy location for Bond Clinic and marks further expansion into the Lakeland community. The new location is at 2039 E Edgewood Dr, STE 130, Lakeland, FL 33803 (operating hours may vary). Patients can visit the Lakeland Complex to receive the following health care services: physical therapy, athletic training, sports performance programming, return to sport testing, orthopedics, manual treatment, spine health, post-surgical care, vestibular rehab, and LSVT big Parkinson’s training. For more information about Bond Clinic and its physical therapy services or to make an appointment, please call 863-293-1191 ext. 3701 or visit bondclinic.com.

havenmagazines.com

POLK TOP 10 RED, WHITE & BOOM

ROCKIN’ FREEDOM FEST

July 3 & 4 from 10am - 9pm at LEGOLAND Florida. Celebrate July 4th and summer fun with the only fireworks display that magically transforms into bursts of LEGO bricks before your eyes! Experience the unique, annual spectacle, all included in regular theme park admission. Purchase tickets in advance legoland.com/ florida/

July 3, 6 - 9pm at the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium in Winter Haven. Join The City of Winter Haven as they celebrate our Nation’s Independence! All are welcome to enjoy this free event. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket to sit on. Celebrate with live entertainment from B. Haven, food trucks, and much more, followed by a fireworks presentation. mywinterhaven.com

PASSPORT TO A CURE

YOGA FOR KIDS

July 16 from 6 - 9pm at Venue 650 in Winter Haven. Relay for Life of Polk County presents a “Passport to a Cure” with food trucks, entertainment and a Luminaria Ceremony. Register in advance online. More info on Facebook @PolkRFL or online at relayforlife. org/polkfl.

July 17 from 9 - 10:15am at Bok Tower Gardens. Introduce your children to a gentle yoga practice that focuses on stress relief, anger management, self-awareness & a positive self-image. For kids ages 5+. Free for members, included in general admission. Register in advance. 863-734-1222 boktowergardens.org

ONCE ON THIS ISLAND

JOSEPHINE SACABO: THOSE WHO DANCE

SUNDAY FAMILY FUNDAY

Throughout July at the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland. Sacabo is an acclaimed, New Orleans-based contemporary photographer whose body of work seems infused with powerful nostalgia. Her work gives a much-needed voice to women of the past. Polkmuseumofart.org 863-688-7743. Schedule your visit online.

Every Sunday from 11am - 8pm at Balmoral Bar and Grill in Haines City. Enjoy brunch from 11am 2pm with Bottomless Mimosas & Bloody Marys. Bring the family for a DJ and family-friendly games from 12 - 4pm. Water Park Day passes start at just $15. Purchase water park passes at: balmoralbarandgrill.com/waterpark.

TREASURE HUNT DOWNTOWN

LOFI REVIVAL

July 17, 11am - 2pm in Downtown Winter Haven. Presented by Main Street Winter Haven. Children under the age of 12 will search for LEGO® Minifigures in the participating locations Downtown. Register online and pick up your FREE treasure map. Turn in your map to for a chance to win a prize. *All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. mainstreetwh.com

July 23, 7-11pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down in Winter Haven. Listen to Lofi music by Deek Beats, cash bar with craft cocktails by Revival, food truck by Nutwood. $7 to enter, limited space. Purchase tickets in advance centralfloridatix.com.

July 15 - Aug. 1 at Theatre Winter Haven. Winner of 20 Tony-Awards for Best Musical. Ti Moune, a peasant girl, rescues a wealthy boy from the other side of the island, Daniel, with whom she falls in love. Unbeknownst to Ti Moune, the gods who preside over the island make a bet with one another over which is stronger, love or death. Reserve tickets in advance. 863-294-7469. theatrewinterhaven.com

WALTER PARKS FEATURES EDAN ARCHER July 24, 7:30pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down in Winter Haven. Walter will introduce Edan Archer to the Derry Down stage for a night of soul stirring music you won’t want to miss. Doors open at 6:30 and the show starts at 7:30 pm. Purchase tickets in advance. gpderrydown.com

*Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house. havenmagazines.com

ORLANDO TOP 10 SCENIC BOAT TOUR Enjoy a relaxing, narrated, onehour cruise through three of the seven lakes and two manmade canals of historic Winter Park. On any given tour, participants may observe large cranes swooping to snag a large fish or an alligator on a nearby bank. Every tour guarantees plenty of palms, cypress trees, ferns, and a variety of sub-tropical flowers, plus views of opulent private homes and estates along the shores. 407-644-4056 scenicboattours.com

40TH ANNUAL JURIED STUDENT EXHIBITION Through Sept. 11 at the Alice and William Jenkins Gallery. This annual exhibition features some of the year’s best student work in painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, and fiber arts. Works are selected by Crealdé School of Art program managers and awarded by the collections and exhibitions manager at Cornell Museum of Fine Art at Rollins College. crealde.org

WATERMELON 5K

BOB ROSS NIGHT

July 5, 7:30-9am at Park Avenue, 110 N. Park Ave, Winter Park. Military Personnel and dependents receive a $10 discount and a special bib! The race will offer a team challenge, commemorative tank top, Watermelon 5k towel, and a virtual 5k option. Register at trackshack.com

Every Wednesday 5pm - midnight at The Falcon Bar. Enjoy happy little beers while Bob paints happy little trees. Come watch his memorizing process and soothing disposition, entertaining commentary, and an occasional guest appearance by his pet squirrel, Peapod. TheFalconBar.com

FAIRY DOORS

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival ends July 5. This is your last chance to visit and see the topiary designs, special outdoor kitchens with exclusive dishes, live entertainment, and of course, a lot of beautiful flowers and gardens. Reservations must be made in advance. Disneyworld.disney.go.com

Throughout July at Leu Gardens. This exhibit features twenty, one-of-a-kind fairy doors that will inspire your child’s imaginative world of enchanted forests, secret gardens, and the magic of fairies. Each door is created by a special fairy and located throughout the 50-acre gardens. A map of the fairy doors will be given out to every guest visiting the gardens. 407-246-2620 leugardens.org

POPCORN FLICKS IN THE PARK

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES

July 8, 8pm in Central Park in Winter Park. Watch “Men In Black” (1997) under the stars. Fun for the whole family. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and snacks or participate in the Curbside To-Go program for a meal to enjoy in the park during the movie. More info at cityofwinterpark.org/events/ This event is free and open to the public.

July 9 - 18 at the Mad Cow Theatre. A masterpiece of mystery, farce, and suspense, this comedy is told in a madcap style, with three actors breathlessly playing sixteen characters in a parody of the most celebrated Sherlock Holmes novel of all time. Reserve tickets in advance. 407-297-8788 madcowtheatre.com

TASTE OF EPCOT

FIREWORKS AT THE FOUNTAIN July 4, at Lake Eola Park from 5-10pm. Enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly fun, with food and beverages available for purchase from a variety of vendors. At 9:15pm, the sky will illuminate with a spectacular fireworks finale, set to a live patriotic performance by the Orlando Concert Band. visitorlando.com

FAMILY SUNSET AT THE ZOO July 23, 5-8pm at the Central Florida Zoo. On the fourth Friday of each month enjoy music, games, and more as you stroll around the Zoo! The gates reopen at 5pm and for $5 admission per person, guests can enjoy exploring the Zoo at sunset and music in the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground! Buy tickets at centralfloridazoo.org

*Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house. havenmagazines.com

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Dinner and a Movie July 3 Grateful Dead Night July 10

Lofi Revival July 23 Art After Dark July 31

Forever Plaid September 17-26 Select Nights

Sell more tickets to your next event! Central Florida Tix is free to use! Give us a call to learn more 863-225-8653.

TAMPA TOP 10 BUSCH GARDENS SUMMER NIGHTS

DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD

SHUFFLEPLAY

“SUMMER OF SOUL” BLOCK PARTY BOOM BY THE BAY July 4. This Fourth of July celebration will feature family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and SIX firework displays along Tampa’s downtown waterfront. Plus, new this year enjoy the Friends of the Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade and Blessing of the Fleet from 5-7pm along the Tampa Riverwalk! Find locations & times at tampa.gov/events/boom

Every Tuesday night, 8pm at Shuffle at 2612 N Tampa St. Participate in Open Mic Night, all music genres welcome. Shuffle is Florida’s first and only indoor shuffleboard bar and restaurant. Play on four indoor regulation-size shuffleboard courts, a kitchen serving concession stand style food, a bar serving beer, wine, liquor, and six rotating taps. Live music weekly on the outdoor stage (weather permitting). Shuffletampa.com

Every day until Sept. 6. Guests can stay late and enjoy worldclass coasters, entertainment throughout the park, and the all-new “Spark! A Nighttime Spectacular” featuring an explosive firework and special effects production. All guests are required to make a reservation prior to visiting. Park open from 10am-10pm. buschgardens.com

Throughout the month at Glazer Children’s Museum, visitors can walk the paths and hear the sounds of Daniel’s world as they encounter the meaning of empathy, gratitude, sharing, and diversity in an environment of creative and interactive play. Guests can play along with Daniel’s singable strategies as they learn life’s little lessons. glazermuseum.org

July 2, Admission to the 5-7pm Block Party is FREE for all ages. Tickets for the 7:30pm screening of “Summer of Soul” are $11.50. For details & tickets visit tampatheatre.org/movie/ summer-of-soul/. In 1969, more than 300,000 people attended the Harlem Cultural Festival. It was filmed, but after that summer, the footage sat in a basement for 50 years. It has never been seen. Until now.

3RD THURSDAY

KING CRIMSON

ONE ACT FESTIVAL

TAMPA BAY COMIC CON

KRINGLE JINGLE 5K

July 15, every 3rd Thursday of each month. Enjoy live music, cocktails, food trucks at this hip, nighttime event located on Madison Street at Grand Central at Kennedy in the center of the Channel District of Downtown Tampa. This event is free to attend, the trucks and bars offer their products for sale. Dogs are welcome! The fun starts at 6pm sharp and ends at 10pm. tampabaymarkets.com/3rdthursday

July 22, 7:30pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. King Crimson was formed in London in 1968 and have been influential on both the early 1970s progressive rock movement and many contemporary artists with their ground-breaking debut “In The Court Of The Crimson King” (1969). Special guest California Guitar Trio to open the show. rutheckerdhall.com

July 23 - Aug. 1 performed by the Carrollwood Players in Tampa. Audiences will experience a mix of short plays never-before produced in Florida. This event provides playwrights with an opportunity to see their work produced and provides emerging directors with experience under the guidance of seasoned mentors. More info and purchase tickets at carrollwoodplayers.org.

July 30 - Aug. 1 at the Tampa Convention Center. Exhibitors include comic books, magazines, toys, games, Star Wars, Star Trek, anime, manga, cosplay, artwork, sketches and apparel. In addition, a roster of comic industry professionals, and comicdom-related celebrities are in attendance for attendees to meet and greet. Tampabaycomicconvention.com

July 31, 7am in Shady Hills. The Concourse will have both paved roads and rolling Florida Trails. The goal of the race is to bring awareness to Toys for Tots and have Runners and Walkers enjoy a fun Christmas-themed event in July. Register in advance runsignup.com/Race/FL/ ShadyHills/KringleJingle5k

*Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house. havenmagazines.com

burgers WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

July just feels like the appropriate month to celebrate burgers, right? It’s the time for backyard barbecues, 4th of July fireworks, beers, popsicles, flamingo floaties, soaking in the sunshine, and of course, flipping a few burgers. To that end, we bring you the 2021 Burger Bucket List! In compiling this list of 50 Polk County burger options, I have exhausted my cheeseburger lexicon. When I close my eyes, all I see are the words ‘JUICY,’ ‘AMERICANA,’ ‘DRIVE-IN,’ ‘CLASSIC,’ and ‘GRILLED TO PERFECTION’ flash over and over in all caps – all while spats of ketchup and mayo and mustard converge into pop art cheeseburger scenes from Pulp Fiction, Good Burger, and SpongeBob. But, for you, my burger babes, I do it with love. Though you’ll find a mighty spread ranging from old-fashioned to unconventional, this is by no means every burger our county has to offer. We decided to focus on supporting local restaurants, opting to leave out chains and food trucks, and rounded it out to an even 50. I can’t speak for every burger here (I’m working on it… 50 burgers is a lot, okay?). So, we’ve singled out some staff picks that we at Haven forever drool over. I give you my Tara Guarantee that these will be good, my “Tarantee” if you will. Tell them Haven sent you (with a wink – you have to wink when you say it). Don’t forget to use the hashtag #kindachill when you post your burger selfie, and you might end up in the next issue of Haven! Please eat responsibly.

havenmagazines.com

adler’s burgers

lego city burger kitchen

Are you ready for a life-changing cheeseburger mouth party freak out extravaganza? Doing things their way with a classic smash burger at the base of their biz, Adler’s is ‘Takin’ care of burgers, every day.’ They started with a food truck (now parked at The Poor Porker in Lakeland) which turned into their flagship Davenport location. Now, on to burger and better things, Adler’s is preparing to open a second storefront in Winter Haven. Artisan baked buns hug a quality, Midwest, high-fat content ground beef smash patty. Accompanying their classic burger on the menu, are campy-named burgers like the Bad Hombre with grilled whiskey onions, jalapeños, and cheddar, or the Twitty with caramelized pineapple, bacon, American cheese, and mayo. Do yourself a favor and follow their social media to see what their weekly special burger is. I’ll tempt you with a few of their most recent specials like the Jalapeno Business with jalapeno firecracker, jalapeno cilantro lime ranch, pineapple jam, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Or the aptly named The Cheech, a burger topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Doritos fried cheese curds. Pair yours with hand-cut fries or my favorite – jalapeno firecrackers.

Looking for some flame-broiled fare for your next family trip to LEGOLAND? Check out what Sparky and the LEGO City First Responders are up to at the LEGO City Burger Kitchen! Their revamped menu includes the likes of a Crispy Cracklin’ Bacon BBQ Cheeseburger with fried onion straws, cheddar cheese, banana peppers, BBQ sauce, and bacon as well as the Fire Chief’s Chicken Sandwich made with breaded chicken, drizzled with citrus and herb-infused mayo and all the chicken sammie accouterments. For a more traditional bite, try the Dispatch Classic Cheeseburger – a flame-grilled burger with all the toppings and LEGOLAND’S special burger sauce. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven legoland.com/florida | (888) 690-5346 FB @LEGOLANDFlorida | IG @legolandflorida

113 Ambersweet Way, Davenport | (863) 438-4324 Winter Haven location coming soon | Food truck at The Poor Porker www.adlersburgers.com | FB @Adlers.TCB | IG @adlerstcb

terrace grille

good thyme

Treat yourself to a long lunch at the Terrace Grille or slide up to the bar for a small plate. Located in the historic Terrace Hotel, this high-end dining destination is now open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, and Sunday brunch with a new Chef, menus, and a renovated dining space. If you’re on the hunt for an upscale cheeseburger, look no further than their lunch menu featuring an Open Face Patty Melt made with a Painted Hills beef patty, roasted shallot, wild mushrooms, house sauce, gruyere cheese, and a sunny side up egg on rye bread. The 1924 Burger is a bite for the history books – a half-pound of ground beef, gruyere cheese, thicksliced bacon, house sauce, bibb lettuce, heirloom tomato, and pickled fried onion assembled on a toasted brioche bun. Though not technically a burger, I’ll let it slide for the Wagyu Beef Slider with roasted shallot and mushrooms, gruyere cheese, and house sauce on a toasted brioche with a sunny side quail egg, available on the Bar Small Plate menu.

It might not have a permanent place on their menu, but I assure you the Good Thyme burger is, well… a good time. A smash burger with arugula, homemade pickles, smoked gouda, and bacon jam – Oh. My. Good Thyme. Burger. Get it when they’ve got it, and until then, we’ll be here begging them to give it a home on their daily lunch menu. Good Thyme has a full menu of fresh, fast eats for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. A few of our non-burger favorites are the fried chicken biscuit, poke bowl, meatloaf sammich, and the Good Thyme Nashville hot fried chicken with sweet-heat pickles and mayo on a brioche bun. 1037 Dixieland Mall Ln, Lakeland | (863) 603-8296 goodthymelkld.com | FB @GoodThymeLKLD | IG @goodthymelkld

329 East Main St., Lakeland | 863-603-5420 terracegrillelakeland.com | FB @terracegrillelakeland

the twisted prop bar & grille

red door lakeland Red Door staff and management pride themselves in craft and integrity. From house-made ingredients to a seasonally changing menu, it’s safe to expect an exceptional experience from this upscale, cozy spot. The Door Steak Burger is made with a short rib blend and finished with heirloom tomatoes, fresh burrata cheese, basil aioli, and parmesan truffle fries. Wash that down with something off their cocktail menu like a Parkesdale Gimlet with Benham gin, muddled mint and cucumber, lime juice, and simple syrup.

A Winter Haven waterfront establishment, The Twisted Prop is praised for its pub fare and good-time atmosphere. So park your boat, and grab a beer and a burger or wings off their bar food menu. Their burger offerings are simple, no-fuss – a single or double burger or cheeseburger. Choose your toppings from lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, jalapeno, and banana peppers and six different kinds of cheese – American, swiss, cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, and ghost pepper.

733 E Palmetto St, Lakeland | (863) 937-9314 reddoorlakeland.com | FB @RedDoorLakeland | IG @reddoorlkld

615 7th St SW, Winter Haven | (863) 293-1937 the-twisted-prop-bar-grille.business.site | FB: The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille

tanners lakeside restaurant & bar

the purple onion deli & grill

Tanners is known for stunning lake views, good drinks, and good times. Embracing the lakeside locale, Tanners lined their menu with plenty of seafood options and Central Florida faves like smoked fish dip, gator bites, grouper sandwich, muscles, clams, and crab legs. However, the cheeseburger options aren’t lacking either. Mushroom and swiss burger – check! Blue cheese and bacon burger – check! Their self-titled Tanners Burger is a half-pound black Angus beef monster topped with lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a brioche bun and served with fries. Add American, cheddar jack, swiss, or provolone if you’re more of a cheeseburger chap or apple smoked bacon for that extra something something. If you are looking to add a notch on your foodie belt, consider a Firecracker Shrimp Burger. This flavor firecracker consists of a half-pound black Angus beef patty garnished with Tanners bang bang shrimp on a brioche bun.

This downtown Lakeland deli and grill boasts specialty sandwiches, chicken specialties, pita wraps, apps, homemade soups, salads, and handmade burger baskets. The Purple Onion has a selection of 8oz. burgers and cheeseburgers, including a bacon cheeseburger, a patty melt with swiss cheese and grilled onions on marbled rye, and even a veggie burger. Their Greek Bacon Burger is a Mediterranean twist on the Americana classic with feta cheese, black olives, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and greek dressing. Each burger is served with toppings of choice, fries or tater tots and slaw. Even the youngest burger enthusiasts can enjoy a bite at The Purple Onion with the kid’s menu sliders! 316 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland | (863) 688-5590 restaurantwebx.com/PurpleOnion | FB @PurpleOnionDeliGrill

1006 Lake Howard Dr SW, Winter Haven | (863) 662-5948 tannerslakeside.com | FB @TannersLakeside

gaskins barbecue & lobster

burger bunker It’s hard to miss this red, white, and blue no-nonsense burger base. Burger Bunker is drive-thru only and offers fresh, never frozen 100% beef for their small (1 patty) and large (2 patties) burgers and cheeseburgers. These babies come with mayo, mustard, ketchup, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and raw or grilled onions. It’s the kind of burger that tastes like it was freshly flipped from the grill at a backyard barbecue in July by a guy wearing a ‘Hi Hungry, I’m Dad’ apron – it’s just a very wholesome cheeseburger. Add egg to give it a breakfast vibe or jalapeno if you like it hot. Word on the street is their crispy chicken sandwiches are pretty good, too, and you can get them two for $4 on Tuesdays.

Smokehouse flavors right off Cypress Gardens Boulevard! Gaskins may have been voted #1 for Haven’s Best Of Barbecue, but their burgers are pretty bangin’ too. They’ve got the basics covered with the Smokehouse Burger and Cheeseburger served with LTOP. The real MVP is the First Responder Burger – it’s smoky and sweet and kinda sexy – you know, like a firefighter (I can only assume that’s where the name came from). This burger is topped with cheese, Gaskin’s Best Of Havenwinning pulled pork, lettuce, onion, pickle, and sweet sauce. That covers the ‘Barbecue’ part of their name, but where’s the ‘Lobsta?!’ I’ll tell you where – it’s busy defying burger genres on their Surf & Turf cheeseburger served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle, topped with warm lobster and chipotle aioli.

1360 US-92, Auburndale FB: Burger Bunker - Auburndale

600 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven | (863) 656-1605 gaskinsbarbecue.com | FB @Gaskinsbarbecue | IG @gaskinsbarbecue

fire The next stop on the burger bus is Fire in the heart of Downtown Winter Haven. Fire’s lunch burgers are cooked to perfection, just how you like it, and served with hand-cut fries. They cover the bases with a mushroom and swiss, a classic, and a Philly cheesesteak burger, with some wild cards thrown into the mix like the Mexical Burger with pico de gallo, cheddar, avocado, lettuce, and sriracha mayo. The Fire Burger has classic flavors with a dijon kick, topped with melty white American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and herb dijon spread. Fire gets decadent during dinner with a Wild Mushroom Fontina Burger – mushroom, fontina, sauce bordelaise, leaf lettuce, and tomato. It’s best paired with a Fire cocktail under the twinkling patio lights. 325 W Central Ave, Winter Haven | (863) 875-5544 thefirerestaurant.com | FB @thefirerestaurant | IG @fire.restaurant

havenmagazines.com

frescos southern kitchen & bar A downtown Lakeland pub serving upscale Southern fare, Frescos is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Guests rave about the atmosphere and service – oh, and the burger! Their signature, an initial-titled burger, is the FSKB Burger, an 8oz house-blend steak burger with pimento cheese, bacon, garlic mayo, and green tomato relish. I’m not drooling – you’re drooling! It would only make the most logical sense to toss that back with an FSKB Porch Tea mixed with house-made limoncello, unsweet tea, raspberry, strawberry, cassis & violet liqueurs. Never fear, vegan friends! Frescos offers a Vegan Impossible Burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, green tomato relish, and avocado. Both burgers have a gluten-free option. 132 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland | (863) 683-5267 frescoslakeland.com | FB @frescoslakeland | IG @frescoslakeland

lake wales family restaurant

crazy fish Known for fresh seafood and a fun atmosphere, Crazy Fish is a Polk County musttry. We aren’t here for the seafood today, though. You know the burger is bomb when some guests opt for it over grouper at a restaurant with ‘fish’ in the name. This Lake Wales hangout offers three burger options, a hamburger, a cheeseburger, and the big kahuna, Matt’s Blackjack Burger. Handmade with a half-pound of ground beef, their hamburger is topped with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles. Their crazy good cheeseburger is the same with American, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese added. Swimming to the top of their burger boastings is Matt’s Blackjack Burger – blackened, served with Monterey Jack cheese, Cajun mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickle. (Add bacon if you want to get crazy.)

Lake Wales Family Restaurant is a staple on the Ridge. Their motto is “Where friends are family,” and their patron family rave about the quality of food and service. They serve up classic breakfast and lunch diner fare like omelets and egg sammies to country fried steak and French dips. This little Lake Wales eatery has quite substantial burger offerings. They’ve got your classics like a bacon cheeseburger, mushroom and swiss, avocado bacon, and patty melts, along with a few elevated options. The Texas Burger, for instance, is topped with American cheese, crispy bacon, BBQ sauce & onion ring. The Frisco is served on grilled rye bread with bacon and swiss cheese. Carb-conscious compadres will enjoy The Naked Burger, a juicy beef patty in the buff, served with a tossed salad.

802 Henry St, Lake Wales | (863) 949-6907 crazyfishlakewales.com | FB @CrazyFishLakeWalesFL

109 FL-60 West, Lake Wales | (863) 676-8799 lwfamilyrest.com | FB @LwFamilyRest | IG @lwfamilyrest

the chop shop

the brunch box

The Chop Shop is a must-stop on your ultimate burger bucket list. This downtown Lakeland pub food paradise was voted Best Burger in 2020 Best of LKLD. Home to the world-famous “Burgers that Rock!” The Chop Shop has a bit of everything on their burger menu, including kitschy names and big flavors. The Hawgzilla, for one, is a double hawg monster cheeseburger, and the Blue Suede comes topped with blue cheese and beer-battered onion rings. If that doesn’t rev you up, they also offer a Mac and Cheeseburger, B.A.D. (Breakfast All Day) Burger, a Bunny Burger for their vegetarian patrons, and a variety of other juicy flavor combos. A Chop Shop standout is the Von Dutch – a burger topped with gouda cheese, sliced apple, o-rings, and smokey sauce, oh my! (Oh, and you can add bacon to that.) Enjoy your bites with some booze from their selection of craft beers on tap and in the bottle, wine, and full bar.

“Food is fantastic. If you are looking for an old-fashioned home-cooked meal, this is your place,” reviewed one Brunch Box customer. A casual breakfast/ lunch go-to, The Brunch Box has a selection of burgers to choose from. Their 6 oz burgers are homemade and hand-pressed, cooked to order, and available with American, cheddar, or provolone cheese. You can upgrade to a 9 oz patty for an upcharge. The Brunch Box fan fave is their Patty Melt topped with grilled onions and cheese on grilled rye. This home-cooking hotspot also has a cheeseburger, bacon cheeseburger, pepper jack burger, mushroom and swiss, and a Texas melt with BBQ sauce, bacon, and grilled onions on grilled toast. 735 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland | (863) 686-9786 FB @LakelandBrunchBox

havenmagazines.com

118 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland | (863) 603-4040 chopshopburgers.com | FB @chopshopburgers

andy’s igloo You want fries with that shake? How about a 1/3 pound of thick and juicy USDA Choice beef hamburger? Andy’s iconic sign is an invitation to step back in time to an old-school Americana diner. Known for reasonable prices and delish hand-dipped sundaes, soft serve, and milkshakes, Andy’s also boasts a Haven Best Of-winning burger. Their burgers are made with lean Western beef, fresh, never frozen, cooked to perfection, and dressed how you like. Andy’s offers a hamburger, super burger, and half-pound burger. The star of the show is Andy’s signature Steakette – 1/3 pound of char-broiled beef. Make it a burger basket and get crinkle-cut fries and coleslaw or substitute for onion rings, fried mushrooms, corn nuggets, or sweet potato fries. 703 3rd St SW, Winter Haven | (863) 293-0019 andysigloo.com | FB: Andy’s Igloo

city star family restaurant

back alley grill Tucked away in the alleyway behind Jensen’s is a top-secret burger window that I’ll tell you about, but you can’t tell anyone. Just kidding, you can tell. But it is a miniature burger joint to add to your list. Grab a drink from Jessie’s or Jensen’s while you’re at it. Tuesday through Saturday 5 pm to 12 am, chow down on pub food faves like cheese curds, nachos, mac and cheese bites, wings (traditional, boneless, and meatless), and the like. Back Alley has your typical burger offerings like their classic Back Alley Burger, Bacon & Blues, and Veggie Burger. Based on the name alone, I’m drawn to Jim n Judy’s Big Ass Burger...because I have a big ass appetite. This baby boasts two patties, white American and cheddar cheese, bacon, ketchup, mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle. Make it a basket with a side of fries.

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, City Star Family Restaurant is “the restaurant people are talking about!” So let’s talk about their burgers! City Star burgers are made with a half-pound of Angus beef and topped with lettuce, tomato, red onion and served with french fries. Their Signature Hamburger is an homage to a classic car hop burger, nothing but Angus beef topped with lettuce, tomato, and red onion. If you like your hammies a little hotter, opt for the Mexican Burger, complete with bleu cheese crumbs, jalapeños, hot sauce, lettuce, tomato, and red onions. Try a taste of the bacon cheddar, BBQ bacon, mushroom cheeseburger, and patty melt too. For those with a bigger appetite, they’ve got a Hungry Man One Pound Cheeseburger.

Located in the alley behind Jessie’s & Jensen’s in Winter Haven.

740 FL-60, Lake Wales | (863) 949-6494 FB @CityStarFamilyRestaurantLW

big tom’s diner

harborside

Half pound, cooked over an open flame and served with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles, this Havendale hamburger haven has you covered from the usual burger and cheeseburger suspects to bacon cheeseburgers, mushroom and swiss, bacon cheddar jalapeno, and more. A list of specialty burgers line their menu as well. Like the Texan Burger with BBQ sauce, onion rings, and American cheese, the Chili Cheese Burger with homemade chili and cheddar cheese, the Greek Burger with house-made tzatziki sauce and feta cheese, The Brunch topped with a fried egg, bacon, and American cheese, and the Redneck Burger piled with slow-cooked pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and American cheese. Make it a double – a full pound – with two of their half-pound patties. If you’re feeling brave, throw your hat in for Big Tom’s 2 Pound Burger Challenge. If you can eat 2 pounds of cheeseburger and french fries within 30 minutes, you get a free t-shirt and your picture on the Wall of Champions.

A continual winner for Waterfront Dining in Best Of Haven, Harborside overlooks the lapping waves of Lake Shipp. Folks pull up by boat or car to enjoy cocktails, fresh seafood, steaks, and casual American cuisine with unmatched Chain of Lakes views. A burger in one hand, a cocktail in the other, and a lake sunset before you – can you think of anything better? Harborside has a Build Your Own Steak Burger served with house fries, homemade slaw, or veggies (upgrade to sweet potato waffle fries, onion rings, or a Harborside Salad). Their burgers are 8 oz. of ground chuck assembled with your choice of topping (lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickle) on a brioche bun. Add swiss, American, or cheddar cheese or make waves by topping it off with smoked bacon, caramelized onions, or sauteed mushrooms. 2435 7th St SW, Winter Haven | (863) 293-7070 harborsidefl.com | FB @HarborsideFL | IG @harborsiderestaurant

havenmagazines.com

1151 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven | (863) 875-5557 FB @BigTomsDiner1 | IG @big_toms_diner

cob & pen

manny’s original chophouse

Cob & Pen – coming through with the decadent Country Club Burger. This bourgeoisie bad boy is on the main menu seven days a week, and you can get it for brunch too. This sammie is artfully assembled with lettuce, tomato, house pickles, and C&P sauce on a corn-dusted kaiser roll with fries. Add cheese, fried egg, or bacon for an upcharge. If you decide to brunch with burgers, opt for a C&P cocktail to match the occasion, like the BYO Bloody Mary, where you can ‘build your own’ from a selection of mixers and garnishes. Or how about a “My”Mosa, another BYO cocktail in which you can choose from a selection of juices and macerated fruits? P.S. On an un-burger-related note, Cob & Pen has an Ultimate Grilled Cheese with swiss, cheddar, fontina, and onion jam on thick-sliced brioche with tomato basil soup – just thought I’d let you know.

Manny’s Original Chophouse is a Polk County steakhouse staple. Though they’re known widely for their steaks, chops, and ribs, their burger menu is worth a gander. Manny’s burgers are served on King’s Hawaiian buns, loaded up with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickle with a choice of potato. They’ve got the classics covered with half-pound burgers, including the Big Steakburger, Big Cheeseburger, Bacon Big Cheeseburger, and a Swiss and Mushroom Steakburger topped with fresh mushrooms and double swiss cheese. 1100 3rd St SW, Winter Haven | (863) 293-0069 mannyschophouse.com FB @mannyswinterhaven |IG @mannyschophouse

1221 Florida Ave S, Lakeland | (863) 937-8126 cobandpenlakeland.com | FB @cobandpenlkld | IG @cob_and_pen

dundee diner

downtown diner

The friendly service and cozy atmosphere at the Dundee Diner keep patrons returning for more classic casual diner fare. Served with French fries or onion rings and coleslaw, Dundee Diner steps up to the plate with a hamburger, cheeseburger, and turkey burger, all topped with mayo, lettuce, onion, tomato, and pickles. The Hickory burger brings the smokey, bacon-y goodness with BBQ sauce, bacon, and American cheese. The Diner flexes a Frisco burger served on grilled marbled rye bread with bacon and swiss cheese as well as a patty melt smothered with sauteed onions and swiss cheese over grilled marbled rye. For those with gluten sensitivity or otherwise watching their carbs is the Naked Burger – their juicy Dundee Diner burger served with a tossed salad.

Many patrons posit that Downtown Diner has the best breakfast in town, friendly service, and tasty, simple eats. Sitting simply on their menu, taking little space from the soups, salad and sandwiches are Downtown Diner’s burgers. A family-style diner serving Americana comfort food, Downtown Diner offers no-frills burgers, cheeseburgers, and bacon cheeseburgers served with fries. Be on the lookout for burger specials! 126 W Main St, Lakeland | (863) 583-4300 FB: Downtown Diner

28087 US-27, Dundee | (863) 547-6916 FB @DundeedinerFl

slate 8 billiards A few games of pool, a couple of drinks – sounds like a good time, right? Slate 8 Billiards, formally Family Billiards for the last 30 years, is the pool hall of record in Winter Haven. On the menu is an assortment of bar food bites, including fried pickles, loaded nachos, and their famous fried bologna sandwich. A solid spot for a quick casual pick-me-up, Slate 8 landed this list with their classic cheeseburger – two patties, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, mayo, ketchup, and mustard, served with fries. 20 4th St SW, Winter Haven | (863) 247-8899 slate8billiards.com | FB @slate8pool

havenmagazines.com

main street winter haven, inc. 863.295.9422

s&l restaurant

john’s drive-in

A bit of a hidden gem, S&L is a quaint burger shack painted white with red trim. A burger mural is painted on the building touting the best burgers in town (since 1983), followed by, “Warning… our burgers may become habit-forming.” The interior is a kitschy composition of license plates, advertisements, Coca-Cola memorabilia, and cheeky signage every way you look. S&L regulars can’t stop talking about their habit-forming burgers served on red and white checkered paper. S&L burgers are unfussy and classic – a hamburger, cheeseburger, and bacon cheeseburger – all served with mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle. Make it a special with fries and add a Coke for an all-American meal.

This Fort Meade-famous drive-in beckons patrons with their family atmosphere and simple fare. Guests can opt for curbside service or pile into a booth for John’s famous subs, sandwiches, chicken buckets, and yes, of course, burgers. John’s grills up the usual suspects of single and double hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and bacon cheeseburgers. If you’re going into Ft. Meade Miner country (the high school’s team mascot), you should get a half-pound burger by the same name. Other offerings include a Greek, Italian, mushroom and swiss, and cowboy burger. 17 N Charleston Ave, Fort Meade | (863) 285-9680 FB: John’s Drive-In

2915 S Combee Rd, Lakeland | (863) 665-0731 FB: S & L Restaurant

apple lounge & grill Often referred to as the “Cheers” of Winter Haven, this good-time bar and pub vaunts scores of regular customers that vouch for its atmosphere and affordable drinks and food. Some of Apple’s bar food best-sellers are wings (Mango Wango wings come highly recommended) and, you guessed it, burgers. The cooked-toorder half-pound burger and cheeseburger come with chips that can be subbed for fries. 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven | (863) 291-0340 appleloungewh.com | FB @appleloungewinterhaven

homecourt by tracy mcgrady

nineteen61

How about tipping off with a ‘half-time handheld’? At HomeCourt, it is their mission to create memories for their guests and bring together friends and family. Their burger selection is the real MVP of this casual lunch spot. Standouts of their burger offerings include the Magic Mushroom made with house-seasoned USDA Black Angus Beef, topped with caramelized mushrooms and onions, fried egg, spicy mayo, and a side of seasoned fries. Also, the T-Mac’s PB&J Burger, loaded with creamy peanut butter, caramelized red onion marmalade, and thick-cut bacon. A Green Thumb burger graces the menu for plant-based patrons – a Beyond Burger topped with your choice of cheese, shredded lettuce, red onion, tomato, and avocado-cilantro mayo on a brioche bun, and served with a fresh cucumber salad on the side. We hope all your wildest burger ‘swishes’ come true at HomeCourt.

The height of fine dining in Lakeland, Nineteen61 was opened in 2015 by Chef Marcos Fernandez. This downtown dining destination was voted #1 Fine Dining, Wine Menu, and Romantic Restaurant in the 2020 Best of LKLD. Coming to you straight off the wood-fired grill is the CEM Burger, a half-pound choice Angus chuck and short rib patty with chef’s smoked cheddar and roasted jalapeño pimento cheese on a potato bun, served with house fries. This bold burger is available at lunch and dinner. Pair it with a signature cocktail from Bar61 or a glass or bottle from their extensive wine list. 215 E Main St, Lakeland | (863) 688-1961 nineteen61.com | FB @nineteen61 | IG nineteen61_

3615 Florida Ave S #1350, Lakeland | (863) 603-3305 homecourtrestaurant.com FB @EatAtHomeCourt | IG @eatathomecourt havenmagazines.com

the back nine

the red top pit stop

Where can you golf, eat, and drink? The Back Nine, of course. A burger on the menu is par for the course at many area eateries, but The Back Nine aced it with theirs. To miss it would be a real duff. Touted as “a premier golf eatertainment experience,” The Back Nine has simulators to play and plenty of fairway fare to feast on. Served with a side of Par3 fries, mac+cheese, fresh steamed broccoli, or grilled zucchini, The Back Nine offers two burgers. The Mushroom Swiss Burger consists of a handmade quarter-pound patty with swiss cheese, sauteed mushrooms and onion, and a healthy spread of smoky mustard over a brioche bun. One over par of that is The “Bogey” Burger. This gourmet golf grub comes dressed with a choice of cheese, bacon jam, lettuce, tomato, onion, and bbq mayo on a toasted brioche bun. Make it a “Double Bogey” if you’re extra hungry.

Whether you’ve got a hankering for homestyle breakfast or something smokey and savory for lunch, The Red Top Pit Stop has you covered. This good old-fashioned greasy spoon is nothing fancy – but that’s the beauty. Their menu is bursting at the seams with 14 variations to choose from of their half-pound steak burgers. One such ooey-gooey flavor explosion is the Green Swamper, stuffed with jalapenos and smothered with cheddar cheese. Their namesake burger, The Red Top, is topped off with homemade chili and cheddar cheese. If you’re looking for a good time, might we suggest the Meat Wagon, packed with cheese, bacon, black forest ham, and smoked pulled pork. 12160 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland | (863) 853-9222 FB: The Red Top Pit Stop | IG @theredtoppitstop

7331 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland | (863) 603-3700 thebackninelakeland.com FB @thebackninelakeland | IG @thebackninelakeland

nutwood This pimento-packed flavor punch in the mouth is a personal favorite. I’m pretty sure angels whisper recipes directly into Chef Steven Rojas’s ear, and he just does what he’s told. Nutwood’s hand-cut 8 oz. burger special (available most days) is made with chuck, short rib, and brisket and topped with smoked bacon or pork belly, pimento cheese, and arugula. A toasted brioche bun is plenteously spread with mustard aioli and viola! An absolute burger blessing. Sometimes, Nutwood even offers a bacon avocado burger. On Sunday, you can have it for brunch topped with pimento, secret sauce, smoked bacon, arugula, and fried egg with country-style potatoes. This might just be the hands-down best burger in the county – yeah, I said it. But, I’ll let you be the judge. 132 Ave B SW, Winter Haven | (863) 229-7770 nutwoodwh.com | FB @NUTWOODWH | IG @nutwoodwh

philly steak & wings

dino’s drive-in

Located in an understated storefront in the Barclay Place Shopping Center, Philly Steak & Wings has the market on two things for sure – Philly steaks and wings. But they do a burger too! Choose between a 5oz single hamburger or cheeseburger or a 10 oz double hamburger or cheeseburger and BYOB (build your own burger). Optional accouterments include white American cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo, ketchup, and pickles. You can add on cheese, peppers, bacon, or mushrooms for a bit more. Their Smokehouse Burger, available as a single or double, is a crunchy, sweet, smoky affair with lettuce, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, bacon, grilled onions, American cheese topped with onion rings. Make it a combo! Just add fries, cheese fries, or onion rings. For the full Philly Steak & Wings experience, opt for rolled ice cream – it’s as much of a treat to watch it be made as it is to eat.

Dino’s is an old-school drive-in straight out of “Grease,” complete with car hop trays hanging from the windows of hungry customers. When you pull up, you can almost see a time of poodle skirts and waitresses on roller skates when you close your eyes. Dino’s Drive-in has been serving the community since 1968 with classic Americana diner fare from subs and salads to hot dogs and chicken tenders. And their burger offerings never disappoint. “Burgers are great, flame-grilled flavor, big to fit the big buns,” wrote one Dino’s Drive-in devotee. Patrons have the choice of small, large, large double, large bacon, or half-pound burger. Elevate your burger experience by adding cheese or hot slaw and make it a basket with fries and rice or slaw. 2929 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven | (863) 967-0230 dinosdrivein.com | FB @dinos.drivein

havenmagazines.com

4963 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland | (863) 606-6122 phillysteakandwingslakeland.com | FB: Philly Steak & Wings

WHY SHOPPING LOCAL MATTERS By shopping locally, you are directly contributing to your local community. Your money is going straight into your city – helping it to thrive.

david’s club at omni resort David’s is a hotel hangout serving up seafood and steak main dishes along with a solid burger. The “DC” Proper Burger with melty American cheese, pecan wood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and special sauce on brioche has been described as well worth the trip. Our vegan readers will enjoy the fresh flavors of the Beyond Burger with arugula, charred red onion, saffron vegenaise, and orange & pepper marmalade on a pretzel bun. 1500 Masters Boulevard, ChampionsGate | (407) 390-6664, ext 6565 omnihotels.com/hotels/orlando-championsgate/dining/davids-club FB @omnihotels | IG @omniorlandofl

scores family sports cafe

davenport’s ale house Known as a “haven for sports fans and fun lovers,” Davenport’s Ale House has entertainment covered with a patio to chill on, a pool table, more than 50-gamewatching TVs, darts, and basketball goals. It’s the perfect spot to grab a beer and a burger and watch the game. Their Build Your Own Burger (BYOB) is good any day of the week. Start your burger build with either an Angus Beef or Beyond Burger patty. Next, choose toppings from lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle, and add provolone, American, cheddar, or swiss for a dollar more. Get outrageous with add ons from sauteed onions, sauteed mushrooms, bacon, and avocado to fried egg and fried shrimp.

This tiny diner is located across from The Winter Haven Library. A breakfast and lunch comfort food go-to, Scores offers wings, apps, salads, a sizeable sandwich menu, and more. Their cheeseburger choices include a classic hamburger, Western Burger, Bacon Cheeseburger, Cajun Bleu Cheeseburger, Mushroom Swiss Burger, and a Patty Melt. You can even get a bacon cheeseburger wrap if you’re looking for a lighter bite. Look out for specials as burgers sometimes get some shine, like the Sunny Side Up Burger with bacon, cheese, and a sunny-side-up egg. “Wow! Had the Cajun blue burger, it was a party of flavor in my mouth. Best burger I’ve had in a long, long time. New favorite!” wrote one Scores customer.

1260 Posner Blvd, Davenport | (863) 420-8000 davenportsalehouse.com | FB @TheDHouse1 | IG @davenportsalehouse01

324 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven | (863) 875-8499 FB @scoresdowntownwinterhaven

the lokale eatery

davenport diner

When in Winter Haven, eat like a Lokale. Fresh ingredients and community partnerships are the focus of this Central Ave. eatery. In addition to small bites, handhelds, and healthy options, The Lokale is lauded for its bounty of burgers. A Honeycomb Bread Bakers bun hugs two patties, American cheese, LTOP, and house sauce on their Butter Burger. Or how about their Tayler Made? Also a double, this beaut is topped with capicola, salami, lettuce, tomato, and garlic aioli. The Buckeye Luke has a distinct BBQ vibe with double-smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, fried onions, and house barbecue sauce. The downtown Winter Haven hotspot also offers the Hog Tied burger and a beefcake of their namesake – The Lokale.

The Davenport Diner is home to a tasty offering of soups, salads, sammies, and homestyle favorites. As far as burgers are concerned, they have a no-nonsense diner-style selection of burgers and melts. Hamburger, cheeseburger, bacon cheeseburger, blue cheeseburger, mushroom, and swiss on marbled rye bread, and a patty melt are your cheeseburger choices. At The Davenport Diner, burgers are made daily from fresh, lean ground chuck, grilled, and served on a deli roll with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Make your meal complete with a choice of french fries, sweet potato fries or fresh chips, coleslaw, and a pickle spear. 40230 US-27, Davenport | (863) 353-2649 davenportdiner.com | FB: Davenport Diner

276 W Central Ave, Winter Haven | (863) 875-7746 FB @TheLokelWH | IG @thelokalewh

havenmagazines.com

mediterranean fresh grill

blue palmetto cafe Located next to the Visitor Center at Bok Tower Gardens, Blue Palmetto Cafe is known for fresh salads, soups, sandwiches and wraps that are a perfect pairing with the natural beauty of Bok Tower Gardens. Blue Palmetto Cafe vaunts a Black Bean Veggie Burger served on sourdough ciabatta with artisan lettuce and tomato. This veggie patty is made with black beans, corn, brown rice, onion, and egg, making it vegetarian-friendly. Boxed lunches can be ordered for take-out or dine in for a picnic among the perennials.

For standout Mediterranean cuisine in the Winter Haven area that looks as good as it tastes, look no further than Mediterranean Fresh Grill. Their stuffed grape leaves and garlic dip are to die for, and the spicy feta dip and chicken shawarma are out of this world, but we’re here for the burgers, baby! Prepared with love and all attention to detail by Chef Chadi, the Lebanese-style burger is made with a beef patty, coleslaw, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mozzarella cheese.

Located at Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales | (863) 676-1408 boktowergardens.org/blue-palmetto-cafe FB @boktowergardens | FB: The Blue Palmetto Cafe

6035 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven | (833) 633-4745 mediterraneanfreshgrill.com FB @MediterraneanFreshGrillWinterHaven | IG @freshgrillmediterranean

mojo federal swine & spirits

cornerstone grill

MOJO serves BBQ and Southern fare out of the former Federal Building in downtown Lakeland. Smoked meats, homemade sides and sauces, over 350 whiskeys, and handcrafted cocktails draw quite the dinner and lunch crowds. Prime your palate with an app of Kansas City Burnt Ends (the crusty outer edges of beef brisket), then sink your teeth into the BBQ Bacon Burger. This smoky behemoth is topped with bacon, Mojo BBQ sauce, jack, and cheddar cheeses. That comes with one of their homemade down-home sides like collard greens, black-eyed peas, mac & cheese, smoked yellow corn, and more. Oh, and they’ve got plenty of adult beverages to keep you happy and hydrated while you’re in burger bliss.

Cornerstone Grill is a family-run eatery that sources from local farmers and growers with sustainability in mind. Each meal is from scratch and made to order, including the Loaded Grilled Angus Burger. This bad boy is made with 100% Angus and topped with lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, bacon, and cheese and served with fries. Don’t forget to ask about the Chef’s dessert of the day! 175 E Haines Blvd, Lake Alfred | (863) 875-8913 FB @cornerstonegrillLLC

130 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland | (863) 937-4226 mojobbq.com | FB @MOJOFederal | IG @mojofederal

super duper spot As the name implies, this Joinery-based burger joint is a pretty Super Duper Spot to grab a bite to eat. Simple but oh so good, their patties are made with Certified Angus beef and are available as a single or double topped with onions, pickles, and super sauce. Looking for a meatless option? Impossible or Double Impossible plantbased patties are dressed the same as their beefy counterparts – all the Super Duper flavor, none of the meat. In addition to their impossibly good burgers, Super Duper Spot offers chicken and fries options and a selection of malted shakes to wash it all down. Located in The Joinery 640 E Main St, Lakeland | (863) 608-9455 superduperspot.com | FB: Super Duper Spot | IG @superduperspot

mojo’s wings, burgers, beer Mojo’s offers quintessential pub fare and ice-cold beer daily. Wraps and wings, salads and sandwiches, fajitas and fish fry, oh my! How about a half-pound fresh, never frozen Angus burger served with your choice of side? Their namesake burger is a classic. And be prepared to drool over their other offerings, including a BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger, Western Burger topped with ham, bacon, BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and red onion, and the Polk Country Burger topped with jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and red onion. 1853 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland | (863) 583-9119 getmojod.com | FB @lakelandmojos | IG @mojoslakeland

ovation bistro & bar

frost bite ice cream & more

You can get your hands around a juicy burger crowned by an Ovation-branded bun in Davenport, Winter Haven, and Lakeland! Ovation is a family operation serving the community an assortment of home-smoked barbecue, steaks, seafood, and more. Their Primetime Burger is 8 oz. of Certified Angus Beef topped with pickles, lettuce, tomato, and onions with the choice of one fresh side – and you can add bacon or cheese.

If they didn’t have you at “24 hand-dipped ice cream flavors,” perhaps a certain wild west burger will gallop away with your foodie heart. This 50s-style Frostproof diner says there is a toss-up for patrons’ favorite burger between their tried and true fresh, never frozen cheeseburger hot off the grill and their Cowboy Burger. So dust off your boots and leave your horse at the door for this sharpshooter worth salivating over. Listen partner, Frost Bite’s Cowboy Burger is topped with American cheese, bacon, BBQ sauce, and onion tanglers.

Davenport 42605 HWY 27 North, Davenport | (863) 354-6967 FB @OvationBistro Winter Haven 7130 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven | (863) 656-1972 FB @ovationbistro2

801 N Scenic Hwy Frostproof | (863) 635-4222 frostbitefl.com | FB @Frostbiteicecream863 | IG @frostbiteicecream

Lakeland 4715 Florida Ave S, Lakeland | (863) 262-3000 FB @ovationbistro3

tempo 1930

That wraps up our Polk County catalog of cheeseburgers. Now it’s time to unwrap a few burgers of your own. Which listings had you drooling? Take a burger selfie and let us know! Also, re-read this and take a drink every time I said ‘no-frills,’ ‘no-fuss,’ or ‘nononsense’ – just for funzies.

Sip a Maple Walnut Old Fashioned while overlooking Central Park, or take your Key Lime Martini to the cozy patio out back at Tempo 1930. Tempo refers to the live music played throughout the weekend, and 1930 pays homage to George Jenkins and the very first Publix store he opened in that location on September 6, 1930. Who wouldn’t want to bite into a juicy burger amid an upscale speakeasy vibe steeped in local history? First, you’re going to want to ask about the handcrafted burger of the week, and if that’s not up your alley, how about one of their other unique signature burgers? The Tempo Burger is tempting; a juicy half-pound beast topped with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Pinkies up for the Truffle Burger, a truffle oil and salt-infused masterpiece with roasted garlic aioli, provolone cheese, and portobello mushrooms. They even have a veggie option. The Cauliflower Burger is made with steak cut cauliflower, guacamole, lettuce, and tomato – yum! 58 4th St NW, Winter Haven | (863) 875-5323 tempo1930.com | FB @Tempo1930 | IG @tempo1930

havenmagazines.com

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation presents

Christmas In July

July 1–31 Your donation can give hope to the extraordinary kids at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital by providing ways for them to cope during their hospital stay.

Find out how you can help: StJosephsChristmas.org

21-1567030-0621

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of 2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of 2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of 2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of

Vote for the Best! Pizza Burger Tacos Wings Cuban Sandwich Italian Sushi BBQ Doughnuts Submarine Sandwich Mexican Breakfast Seafood Thai Mediterranean Chinese Oysters Ice Cream Food Truck 2018

Diner Fine Dining Patio Waterfront Dining Bar Cocktails Wine Menu Coffee House Beer List Florida Wine Polk County Beer U-Pick Farm New Restaurant Catering Company Romantic Restaurant Vegan Food Dog Friendly Restaurant Bakery Realtor 2019

2020

2021

Realty Company Mortgage Broker Home Remodeling Company Painting Company Home Inspector AC Repair Roofing Company Plumber Patio Screening Company Construction Company Retirement Community Hotel Apartment Community Moving Company Residential Cleaning Company Clothing Boutique Gift Shop / Boutique Jewelry Store Antique Store 2018

2019

2020

2021

Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of havenmagazines.com

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of 2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of 2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of 2018

2019

2020

2021

2018

2019

2020

2021

Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of

havenmagazines.com June 1st – July 31st

Bike Shop Thrift Store Florist Pool Supply Wedding Venue Gym Dance Studio Dispensary Wellness Store Furniture Store Book Store Dry Cleaner Doggy Day Care Golf Course Auto Repair Auto Dealer Boat Dealer Vehicle Customization Shop Oil Change 2018

2019

Storage Facility Family Doctor Hospital Urgent Care Pediatric Doctor Eye Specialist / Optometrist Orthopedic Doctor Dentist / Orthodontist Rehabilitation Services Chiropractor Yoga Studio Yoga Instructor CPA Financial Advisor Attorney Bank Insurance Agent Veterinarian Spa 2020

2021

Hair Salon Barber Nail Salon Dog Groomer Wedding Planner Wedding Photographer Event Entertainment Park Place for Live Music Art Gallery Public Art Piece Visual Artist Photographer Band DJ Maker Tattoo Artist Piercing 2018

2019

2020

2021

Best of Best of Best Of Best Of Best of Best of Best Of Best Of 39

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Daniel Pepin Born in Bellingham, Massachusetts, an hour outside of Boston, into a family from the French-speaking part of Quebec, Daniel Pepin has an unmistakable New England accent wed with good-natured Candian comportment. His brawny figure and tattoos may be imposing, but it is only a facade for a passionate musician who loves his craft and community.

“We played everything from stadiums to little tiny dive bars,” said Pepin. He toured with The Letdown until his son Ethan was born. He stopped going on the road and eventually moved to Florida to be closer to his parents. Pepin became a single father and put all of his focus on raising Ethan. With his musical flame all but extinguished, he met his now wife, Cori Blythe. Raising Ethan on his own, he described Blythe as a ‘surrogate mom’ to his son and a steadfast supporter of his music.

“My grandmother had one of those old flip-top record players. The first record she had was Eight Days a Week by the Beatles,” remembers Pepin. The first time he heard it, he said, “That’s what I want to be. I want to do that.” Pepin got his first guitar lesson at age four. To encourage his musicality, Pepin’s grandmother bought him an electric guitar. His father was upset that she would spend all that money on something he may not stick with. “Which I love holding over his head now and forever,” he said affably. Music consumed Pepin. He constantly played, even strumming the tune to Super Mario Bros. or Zelda as he waited for his turn to play the game with friends.

OVER THE CLIFF Pepin plays guitar, bass, drums, and piano and can chart music. He worked as an entertainment technician at an area theme park producing tunes that played in the background throughout the park and for their events. “It was great for me because I could just sit in a black room with nobody bugging me and just do my thing,” he said. In a devastating turn of events, Pepin was severely injured while weightlifting, tearing his abdomen in half. A year and a half later, the couple lost their jobs during the pandemic. “That was the cliff that I fell over to start playing again,” said Pepin.

As he grew older, he delved further into The Beatles’ catalog. Works like the Magical Mystery Tour stood out. He remembers thinking, “This is it. I don’t know what’s happening because I’m not even a teenager yet. There’s something psychedelic happening. I dig that.”

During a trip to Europe, his wife arranged for Pepin to play the Cavern Club in Liverpool, a music mecca that hosted The Beatles during their early years. Playing where his musical paragons had played reignited Pepin’s fire, though his injury held him back. “I was crushed for a while. I didn’t think I was ever going to play again,” Pepin said. Splitting his abdomen made it uncomfortable even to hold a guitar. He had an initial surgery that failed. “When I was in England playing the Cavern Club, I had to wear a binder that would literally hold my stomach in,” Pepin said. “I thought it was over.”

Eventually, Pepin’s father canceled his guitar lessons. “He took me out of lessons because I was teaching the teacher how to do some of the riffs,” he said. His father took him to one of New England’s most famous guitar instructors, Steven Kirby. Kirby, a Boston-based guitarist, composer, and educator, is a graduate of Berklee College and earned a degree in Jazz Composition and Arranging from the University of Massachusetts (Amherst). He has been faculty at Wellesley College, Brandeis University, and Berklee College of Music. Kirby has won awards for his jazz compositions and published articles in Guitar Player Magazine and Jazz Improv Magazine. His music has aired on radio stations worldwide, and he has toured in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, Europe, China, and Africa. “I couldn’t out-play him. He was the top of the top,” said Pepin. Kirby encouraged Pepin to go to college for music. So, he did. Pepin enrolled at Rhode Island College to pursue a degree in Musical Education.

After he healed up, Blythe pushed him to play again. She bought him a classical guitar, and he booked his first show at the Winter Haven Farmers Market. “I had never played by myself,” he said. Pepin worried people might see his Spanish guitar and think, ‘How cool can that be?’ But when Pepin begins to pick the strings, it is chill-inducing – an amalgamation of years mastering his craft and an innate radiating talent. People stop what they’re doing to listen and watch Daniel Pepin. He is an entertainer to the core. His showmanship is complete with jokes, banter, and guitar tricks. He shouts out market vendors, and once shred so fast during a performance at Swan Brewing, his pick caught fire. “Once you break the ice, not to mention having a rapport with people and talking to them and being friendly… once you connect to them, it’s easy.”

Even before earning his degree, Pepin taught music. His professors would vouch for his skills to play and read music. He taught at a Bellingham store called Larry B’ee Music Center, which is still open today. He taught there for years and is still in contact with the families he instructed. Pepin also studied under Mychal Gendron, a classical guitar player, and world-touring artist. Around that time, he and friend Ron Howard started a band, The Letdown, now The Mighty Letdown. During his last year of college, The Letdown took off. The band opened for top names at the time, like Godsmack, Cold, Breaking Benjamin, Mudvayne, and Disturbed.

“That’s why when you see me playing at the market, I’m always smiling because I can do it again, and it’s fun. Whether it’s for five people or 500, you’re going to get the same exact response,” he said. Pepin’s ‘baby’ is a Yamaha Spanish Classical, a flamenco guitar with nylon strings. Considered one of the most romantic of instruments, its sound is dreamy and serene. “I think it does help that what I do is so different from what other people do. There’s a specific sound that that type of guitar has that you don’t get from your average guy with an acoustic guitar, steel-string,” he said. Demand for Pepin’s pretty Spanish guitar sound grew. He went from one or two shows a month to sometimes two or three in a day. Now, music is all that Pepin does. He performs gigs and does sound production and mastering for other artists. “I play every minute that I can.” He has some 32 guitars and keeps at least one in every room of his house. He’s even been known to shred in his sleep and play along to the theme songs of movies and television shows. Blythe tunes him out at this point, he said with a smile. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 -

havenmagazines.com

He plays all over Polk County from the Winter Haven Farmers Market, and the Twisted Prop to the Pink Piano, Swan Brewing, Craft + Kitchen, Haven Coffee Roasters, and the Poor Porker. Pepin said, “The places close to home around here are really good for me. People just seem to get it.” During gigs, he plays a mix of original music and covers – Queen, The Beatles, and even Willie Nelson upon request.

LIVERPOOL LIVE What can only be described as Serendipity’s divine hand of intervention – from a little boy who loved The Beatles to a successful musician in his own right – Daniel Pepin has joined The Beatles tribute band, Liverpool Live. Pepin is excited for the theatricality of the costumes and instruments as his part performing George Harrison. “It’s very authentic,” he said of the band. From chord strikes to minor mistakes The Beatles made, Liverpool Live plays precisely.

You may know him as ‘the unicorn guy’ because of his galaxycolored hair and his logo of a guitar backdropped by a unicorn designed by his wife. But that pet name has even more wholesome origins. Pepin’s son Ethan liked My Little Pony and would get picked on for it while waiting for his school bus. So, Pepin, a tattooed, weightlifting, guitar-thrashing hulk of a guy, bought a My Little Pony shirt and wore it to walk Ethan to the bus stop. After that, his bus mates never made fun of him again. “I may be a good guitar player, but I’m a way better dad.”

Pepin was introduced to Liverpool Live after meeting one of their singers, Mark Benzur, at a club. They were looking for understudies to fill in from time to time if bandmates were sick or otherwise couldn’t perform. Interested, Pepin rehearsed with them and was offered a leading position. “And there’s no work for me because it’s The Beatles – it’s like putting on an old comfy shoe,” he said. His first performance with Liverpool Live was a June 19 gig at The Friar Tuck in Clermont. “How ironic is it that when I was a little kid, I said ‘I’m going to do that someday,’ and now I’m literally doing that song?”

PEPIN’S PROCESS Producing his original music is an enthralling process. Sans band Pepin plays each instrument on a track by recording one and layering it with another from the guitar and bass to drums. As far as lyrical inspiration is concerned, Pepin keeps it close to home, writing about personal experiences and that of friends and family. “I like soul-crushing stuff, unfortunately. I like the really sad and then inject it with hope,” he said. He called his song “Time Slips Away” “the happiest sad song you’ll ever hear in your life.” A section of the song intones, “When you’re losing your hope, I will throw down a rope. You can come back up to me.” He continued, “I like that mood that it might be melancholic, but there’s always hope in it.”

‘I LOVE THIS COMMUNITY’ “I’ve made lifelong friends from the market, lifelong friends from the Pink Piano, lifelong friends from here,” Pepin said as he took a sip of unicorn latte at Haven Coffee Roasters. Even when he’s having an off day or doesn’t feel good, “When people are having a good time, it makes you into it. It pulls you in.” he said. “I love the connection with people. I love this community.” As for his musical aspirations? Now that his son is older, Pepin hopes to go back on tour. He plans to keep plugging his original music and playing at every opportunity. “While I can still do it, I’m going to give it a hundred percent.”

Pepin’s best friend Tom Sabin, an uncle to his son, Ethan, recently passed away. One of Pepin’s songs was played at his funeral. “That guy loved me and supported me since Letdown through all those years,” he said through tears. Pepin booked a trip to New England last month to see Sabin, who unfortunately passed before his visit. “He was my hero,” Pepin said. The two met through playing music, and Sabin had been there since day one. “I always say, ‘I don’t have a lot of friends, but I’ve got a lot of really close friends.’”

havenmagazines.com

www.danielpepinmusic.com FB @DanPepinMusic YouTube: Daniel Pepin SoundCloud: Daniel John Pepin

Allergy Problems? We have the answer. Call today for allergy testing & treatment.

Kathryn Convers, MD Board-certified: Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, AND Allergy/Immunology Collaborative Faculty Assistant Professor of Pediatrics with USF Morsani School of Medicine Phone: 863-213-1010 || Address: 4325 Highland Park Blvd.,Lakeland || Web: LakelandAllergy.com Most major medical insurance, and patients of all ages accepted. 43

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Honeycomb Bread Bakers You’ve had their warm bagels at N+1 and lined up for their country sourdough at the farmers market, but soon you will have more opportunities to enjoy Honeycomb Bread Bakers. The bee brand bakeshop is expected to open in Winter Haven later this month.

Bread should also come from a brand you trust and believe in. “When people see the little gold bee, it should have a resonance or a meaning.” Even before he genuinely knew he wanted to be a baker, Vickers envisioned a bakery called Honeycomb as a kid. “I’ve always had this affinity with bees as a symbology, […] they represent a place where the natural, wild world meets the more rigorous and architectural world which as an aesthetic, I’ve always really liked,” he said.

Benjamin Vickers thought he’d go to college for English Lit and become a “bookish academic” type. His hobby of home baking for his friends and family slowly took center stage. He called his parents one day and said, “I’m going to New York for culinary school, guys.” He was accepted into the Culinary Institute of America in upstate New York for a slot opening three weeks later. “It was a whirlwind starting out, but I haven’t looked back since,” said Vickers. Benjamin did his externship at Manhattan bakery, Dominique Ansel. He was even part of the team that brought into being the popular croissant, donut hybrid – the cronut.

“With our bread, for example, I love the wild and rustic – it is what it is, but also, we do a lot to make it have a beautiful ear and a nice golden crust, and it’s a certain shape, and everything is precisely measured. When those two things meet, I think that’s a nice sense of beauty,” he said. “Also, Honeycomb in bakery parlance, when you slice a loaf of bread, and you see that whirl pattern of air bubbles – bakers call that the honeycomb. Whenever it’s properly fermented, it should be a nice open honeycomb.”

After graduation, he was invited to work at a high-end catering service in Ithaca, New York. The business catered many of the galas and banquets for nearby Cornell University. The company didn’t have a pastry or dessert program at the time Vickers joined them. Fresh out of culinary school, he stepped up to help them build one from the ground up. Initially, he was catering weddings and banquets. Understanding that dessert and cakes were the most in-demand pastry jobs, he knew he wanted to be a bread baker. He noted that the rest of his journey was “carving out that career.”

It was essential for Vickers to pay homage to the tradition of bread baking. According to Vickers, the version of bread that Honeycomb produces is only slightly modernized from the ancient Greeks. “What I love about us being one tiny piece of that long timeline is that it’s not necessarily about reinventing the wheel,” he said. He isn’t looking for a gimmick. He wants to do his part to make the simple staples incrementally better over time – a blip in bread’s evolution.

The next stop in his bread baking journey led him into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains at world-renowned Blackberry Farm in Maryville, TN. There, he was able to foray from desserts into bread. Vickers remembered fondly, “We would bake bread all night, [...] [and we] would go down these twisting paths through the farmlands to deliver to all the houses and restaurants. You’d see the sun rising over the mountains and all the sheep as you’re driving your little bread cart.”

Honeycomb’s most popular items are their Country Sourdough, followed by their Wild Maine Blueberry Muffin. Among the many things that make his muffins stand out are the tiny Maine wild blueberries he uses. He said they grow wild in bushes on the sides of the road there. They are notably smaller than Florida’s plump blueberries that tend to hold more water. These berries offer a sweet, tart, “punch of flavor,” says the baker. “We have to bend over backward to get these berries, but it is so worth it.”

Vickers got his next pastry gig by happenstance while out to dinner at Nineteen61. Chef Marcos needed a pastry chef, and there was Vickers. He became the pastry chef for Chef Marcos and worked for about two and a half years. Vickers started his cottage food business making bread, Honeycomb Bread Bakers, in February 2018, though Honeycomb’s official birthday is October of that year. He joined Catapult and began selling at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market a month later.

Honeycomb continues to sell at the Downtown Lakeland Farmers Curb Market and the Winter Haven Farmers Market, at which he was a debut vendor in January 2020. In addition to various wholesale locations, Vickers opened a Bay Street bakery in Lakeland in the Fall of 2019. Due to a real estate dispute, the bakery could not renew the lease and closed the storefront in April 2020.

“Our first day was one loaf of bread to Concord,” Vickers said. Word spread, and the baker began to realize just how much of a need there was for quality bread from an honest source. “That’s one of the things that I’m trying to cultivate – a brand on one hand that is really accessible because bread should be humble. It shouldn’t be too expensive or unattainable. It should be easy to find and delicious and nutritious and fill your belly,” said Vickers.

Vickers described his reception in Winter Haven as ‘extremely warm’ with folks lining up every Saturday at the Winter Haven Farmers Market for his baked goods. Along with the name recognition from Winter Haven partners such as N+1 Coffee and Haven Coffee Roasters who sell or utilize Honeycomb products, Honeycomb fills a niche for this side of the county. Whereas most - CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 -

havenmagazines.com

of his colleagues sell cookies, cakes, and confections, Honeycomb offers more savory options and bready pastries.

The community is a-buzz about Honeycomb, a welcome addition to the downtown dining landscape. The bakery will offer what patrons are already familiar with from the farmers markets along with an expanded menu of goods – fresh bread, bagels, pretzels, a pastry case, viennoiserie including muffins, croissants, pain au chocolat, morning buns, and Kouign-Amann. The Sixth Street bakeshop will boast a full espresso bar and a tea bar with fine imported teas.

As soon as he knew the Bay Street location would close, Vickers went on the hunt for a new building. After a few months of looking in Lakeland and Winter Haven, he began talking with Six/Ten Group and found himself drawn to one of their properties on Sixth Street downtown. The building is roughly 1600 square feet, including additions to the structure. The Sixth Street location was a gas station in the 1960s and, more recently, an auto glass repair shop. “The thing that I loved about it was the Spanish mission-style architecture, and the shape of the building is very unique and quirky. I thought it would be a great opportunity for us to have ample outdoor seating,” said Vickers.

“Some of the newer things that we weren’t able to do in our old shop will be more full-service breakfast and lunch,” Vickers explained. The scrumptious Honeycomb lox bagel will make a comeback along with quiche, be it roasted vegetables or a more traditional offering of Quiche Lorraine. Break out your comfy pants because Honeycomb is doing breakfast sandwiches, baby! Hungry sammie seekers can expect morning offerings on their fresh bread, bagels, croissants, and sourdough English muffins.

“We’ve been basically baking out of a closet for the past three years,” said the baker. His Winter Haven bakery will be a dramatic upgrade for baking, manufacturing, storage, and quality of environment for him and his staff in terms of space and production.

Just before he had to close shop in Lakeland, Vickers and his team implemented lunch options at the bakery. Winter Havenites rejoice! Honeycomb will have six sandwiches to start, including a Rueben, made on house Danish rye bread with homemade sauerkraut, as well as a Cubano and a smoked turkey club. The menu will feature salads, too, like the beloved Honeycomb Bistro Salad and Caesar Salad. “Soup is my all-time favorite lunch,” said Vickers. “I’ve wanted to do it for a while. That will be a mix of creamy and brothy soups.”

Honeycomb will bring back the products and services customers loved at his Bay Street location and venture into new culinary terrain. Vickers described this soon-to-open bakeshop as a ‘much more holistic approach to Honeycomb’ with retail and wholesale under one roof. Construction on the building commenced around eight months ago.

havenmagazines.com

He went on to say, “The weekends will be for more playful, composed lunch items.”

Honeycomb Bread Bakers will have an outdoor gathering space in the front of their building as well as a shared space with Adler’s Burgers behind them. Vickers hopes to see the beloved burger joint open not long after his bakery so the two can create a collaborative synergy.

“We have these big beautiful hearth ovens, so we might as well crank them all the way up and do pizzas on Fridays and Saturdays.” In addition to pizza and flatbread specials, Honeycomb will offer plated specials like perhaps a ratatouille, meatloaf, lasagna, or a curry dish.

The building’s industrial history has led to a less than glamorous construction process. They’ve dealt less with the cosmetic and more with environmental remediation and installed underground utility lines to ensure it is up to standard for a food service facility. Vickers hopes to be fully open or soft-open towards the end of July.

“Bakeries and cafes have always been these gathering places for communities. People in the hospitality industry call it the third space. Home is the first space, work is the second space, and cafes are the third space. They are an extremely social environment, and we’re hoping that it can be that crossroads in Winter Haven or that cornerstone of the community that people really gather at,” said Vickers. “To that end, we’re hoping to use the large outdoor area as a venue space for different markets or events. We have a lot of passionate creators as partners – either as vendors or on our team.” He hopes to provide these creatives opportunities to express themselves, be it in a coffee tasting, a farmer discussing their sustainability programs, or a bread baking class. “We’re hoping it will be a very event-focused venue and more of a community place rather than a place to do transactions where we just sell bread.”

In a November 2020 social media post announcing the new store, Vickers wrote, “Our goal for this new home is to improve the value and quality of our products and services, to provide fulfilling careers for our staff, and to make our beautiful world a little better and yummier.” Honeycomb Bread Bakers 140 6th Street SW, Winter Haven www.honeycombbread.com FB @honeycombbread IG @honeycombbread

spicy watermelon 1 cup blanco tequila ½ cup mezcal 1 jalapeno halved, plus more for garnish 3 cups cubed watermelon 6 tablespoons fresh lime juice 6 tablespoons simple syrup In a jar, combine tequila, mezcal and jalapeno for 20 minutes or up to one hour. Discard jalapeno. In a pitcher, muddle watermelon until completely broken down. Add tequila mixture, lime juice, syrup, and stir. Serve chilled. Ages 21+ please drink responsibly. Recipe adapted from countryliving.com

Check Me Out ;) THE SUMMER WIVES by Beatriz Williams

DUMA KEY by Stephen King

THE SUMMER JOB by Lizzy Dent

THE SUGAR QUEEN by Sarah Addison Allen Light and airy and so, so sweet. The perfect book for sitting on a porch sipping sweet tea. Sarah Addison Allen is known for her magical realism, and “Sugar Queen” doesn’t disappoint. The story is full of magical elements that are grounded in enough reality to make them believable. The novel has lots of romance and a touch of sadness - but it is the character development that makes this an enjoyable summer read.

TIGER GIRL AND THE CANDY KID by Glenn Stout

“The Summer Wives” is the perfect summer read - part romance, part mystery, and part historical novel. “The Summer Wives” adeptly weaves several timelines together to create a rich novel set on an exclusive island where the lives of the wealthy and privileged summer residents intertwine with the far less privileged locals. Spanning decades of secrets, Williams brings each era to life with rich descriptions.

“Duma Key” captures the feel of the beauty of a Florida gulf coast island paradise - sunsets, blue water, and sugar-white sand. But this is a King novel - and just like in one of our powerful summer storms, paradise is turned into a whirlwind of natural and supernatural forces, and everything turns scary fast. Hands down, one of my favorite Stephan King ghost stories.

A romantic comedy with wonderfully flawed characters, “The Summer Job” is an escapism fantasy that will make you laugh out loud. This debut novel has all the hallmarks of a traditional rom-com; disguise and mistaken identity, romantic tension, and lessons to be learned. What sets it apart is an assembly of supporting characters that shine on their own as well as the amount of depth to be found in some of the storylines.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER by Mary Dixie Carter

BRAT: AN ‘80S STORY by Andrew McCarthy

MILK BLOOD HEAT by Dantiel W. Moniz

I love reading a dark, psychological thriller on a hot summer night, and “The Photographer” fits the bill perfectly. This is a very twisted tale of obsession told through the eyes of a completely unreliable character, a woman who manipulates her way into a picture-perfect family. I found I couldn’t put down this faced paced debut novel.

The 80s were my decade and I grew up watching McCarthy in all my favorite films. So, I was happy to find myself reading his impressions of this time in his life. He brings to life a picture of what was happening behind those Hollywood scenes and I loved every last word. The book is written in an informal, rambling way that adds to the personal nature of the material. I was impressed with McCarthy’s writing and his authentic and self reflective gaze.

This collection of short stories is not about happy endings or neat endings perfectly wrapped in a bow - these stories, many that end without resolution, are meant to stay with you. Moniz writes around the themes of motherhood, childhood,families and self discovery - all set in Florida. These are deep stories that are meant to hold us in discomfort and many feel like the slippery slope when you realize things happen beyond control. I will definitely be rereading this collection in the future.

havenmagazines.com

WORDS Jane Martin, City Librarian Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven

What a title! What a story! This nonfiction book reads like a fast paced fiction, but it is a well researched fascinating slice of history. “Tiger Girl and the Candy Kid” tell the story of the first gangster couple - Richard and Margaret Whittemore. They partied with the elite during the American Jazz Age while robbing and murdering through multiple states. Even though Stout writes with amazing attention to detail, the story is never weighed down.

Now Featuring

& s C e i r k e o C C B am old

rew

6 to 9 p.m. Wholesale coffee options available for small and large businesses. Mon-Sat: 7am-5pm, Sun: Closed 863-251-9619 || havencoffeeroaster.com || 140 3rd St SW, Winter Haven

TAKE CHARGE OF LIFE’S TRANSITIONS

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING

OUR KEY OFFERINGS

Denise R. Tessier, Esq.

863.220.7927 Office | 863.225.2244 Direct DeniseTessier@TessierLawFirm.com 290 Cypress Gardens Blvd. | Winter Haven, FL 33880

By Appointment throughout Polk County

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

‘One Search for All’ In May of this year, St. Louis, Missouri native and twenty-year Lakeland resident Derrick McBride released his debut selfpublished novel, “One Search for All.” Inspired by true events that transpired in 1970s Fulton, Missouri, the story follows Miss Willie Swanson Edwards and the author’s grandfather, Jack McBride.

missing and the search to find her. The book unravels a shocking, surprising story that takes the reader back to a time where racial tension was at its peak.” An 18-year-old McBride was struck when his grandfather first told him the story of the search for Miss Willie. “After he told me, I knew I wanted to share it with the world. I didn’t know how I was going to do it. I didn’t know what method it was going to be, what media, but I knew I had to,” he said. McBride and contributor Laird Garner took time fact-finding, regularly consulting with Jack McBride, and organizing information for historical accuracy and pertinence to the story. “Even before we started writing, we had to gather up information about Miss Willie, about the City of Fulton, about laws, about music, about candy,” said McBride. “He played an integral part in helping me with the book,” McBride said of Garner.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Following years spent in program development and fundraising within the nonprofit sector, Derrick McBride turned his focus to presenting, keynote, and motivational speaking. Through his work, McBride hopes to motivate people “to become better versions of themselves, create better opportunities for themselves, and to do exactly what they’ve always dreamed.” Derrick McBride is the founder of Vizon Quest, a nonprofit dedicated to providing services to youth ages 6-18 in education and career development, health and life skills, sports, fitness, and recreation. He co-founded event management company Eventrics and is well-known locally as the Executive Director of the YMCA/ First Tee program in Lakeland. First Tee is an international program utilizing afterschool and in-school programs to introduce the game of golf to young people. “It’s meant to bring diversity to the game of golf,” said McBride. “We were able to do some amazing things in the community through that program.” He has also worked as CEO/ Executive Director of a Boys and Girls Club.

Compelled to relay the tale, McBride noted, “I don’t know if it’s something that I wanted to tell. I thought it was something that you would want to hear as a reader. […] This is one of the best true stories I’ve ever heard. It doesn’t get any better than this.” And an extraordinary true story it is. Towards the book’s conclusion, the narrator aptly recounts, “I couldn’t help but realize that this entire search wasn’t just about finding Miss Willie, it was about finding the American dream, whatever it may be, to whomever it may be.” ‘FOLK HERO’ JACK MCBRIDE

ONE SEARCH FOR ALL

McBride described his grandfather Jack as “a folk hero back home.” Many in Fulton and surrounding areas were familiar with Miss Willie’s story from Jack McBride, who wrote his account in a journal. “So many people liked the story that he sold that journal,” said McBride of his grandfather’s book, “The Search: The True Story of Miss Willie Swanson Edwards.”

When Miss Willie goes missing one frigid February morning in 1974, friends Ortis ‘OT’ Williamson and Jack McBride will stop at nothing to find her. “One Search for All’’ is a moving account passed down by McBride’s grandfather exploring the “realities of racism, homelessness, despair, and desperation.”

Jack McBride, now 96-years-old, is a civic leader in Missouri, contributing to the Fulton Chapter of the NAACP, the Youth Life Improvement Association, the Callaway Alcohol and Drug Awareness Action Committee, Habitat for Humanity, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. State Commission, and Governor Mel Carnahan’s Advisory Committee. His efforts have been recognized through honors, including the 1994 Fulton Chamber of Commerce J.H. Atkinson Award for Outstanding Community Service, the 1992 Fulton Kiwanis Club Community Spiritual Advancement Award, and the Central Missouri Negro League George Washington Carver Achievement Award.

Miss Willie is described as a fiercely intelligent woman who loved literature and poetry. An excerpt from the book reads, “In her early years she was a confident woman, whose beauty was like the fire-gold flame of dawn. Her thoughts flowed with wisdom, and that heart of hers would be the source of love that so many young people would cherish.” Another passage asserts, “She commanded respect from all who knew her, and even though she was denied many opportunities because of the color of her skin, she continued to hold her head high.” Polk County educator for over twenty years, Michelle Snell, synopsized the book, writing, “It offers an insightful glimpse into the lives of Black people and injustices happening in the 1970s. The story centers around a homeless Black woman that goes

“I don’t know if I really knew what kind of person he was until I started writing the book,” said Derrick McBride. Growing up, McBride regarded his grandfather, who the family calls ‘Hi Pop’ - CONTINUED ON PAGE 54 -

havenmagazines.com

as “rock solid.” Spending time on his grandfather’s farm was the highlight of McBride’s summers growing up. He admired Jack but didn’t quite realize the depths of his character and community impact until diving into “One Search for All.” “People in his community loved him. He advocated to bring diversity to the state of Missouri and to the surrounding cities he worked in. He was a big component of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He was really big on bringing people of different colors together for a common goal,” said McBride.

a deadline, finished the book, and it came out in a whirlwind. “Now I’m just able to sit back and go, ‘I did that.’ […] It was a tough journey. There were times as I wrote the book when I was in some difficult places in my life. Some of the best chapters in that book were in those difficult times.” The “One Search for All” author is currently on tour to promote his book. McBride has designs on several more books that would expand on Miss Willie’s life and that of his grandfather, as well as a motivational book nearing finished, titled “There’s a Hole in My Sock.”

A GOAL TO GET IN SCHOOLS

His goal is to get “One Search for All” into middle and high schools. “I want to get a paperback version into schools with a curriculum and a workbook,” he said. McBride envisions a workbook with exercises that will spark conversation, and if asked, he would love to speak to students about it. Educator Michelle Snell noted, “As a teacher, I’d love to see Mr. McBride get his book into our Polk County schools. Our world needs more unity and compassion. This book touched my heart, and I’m sure it will for all who have the privilege to read it.”

Drawing from the real lives and experiences of Miss Willie, Jack McBride, and others, the book delivers an impactful, twisty read filled with beats of profound sadness, injustice, revelation, and triumph. “I did want to stir up emotions,” said McBride. “I wanted to stir up feelings, and I wanted to stir up thoughts. Even if it did make you mad and you couldn’t do anything – what can you do today?” Each reader will doubtlessly walk away with something different from the story. McBride certainly gleaned something from telling it. “It took me a long time to write the book, and there were several times that I got stuck. I’d set it down, but I kept pushing through. I think that if you have a dream to do something, you have to push through, and you learn that about yourself.”

One Search for All To purchase, visit: theonesearchforall.com FB @OneSearchForALL IG @onesearchforall

“I don’t even know how to feel about it yet,” he said. McBride had

havenmagazines.com

The story of the body and heart

CONCIERGE SERVICE

Sit Sit back and listen Listen to what your heart has to tell you It will tell you to feel To feel the veins that run through you Notice that they are filled with life Pumping at the speed of light Filled with sound Filled with ideas Running through you in every way Can you hear it? Never forget that you can do it all If you do forget Sit Remember Remember that this body is capable Capable to fight Capable to love Capable to survive

PERSONALIZED TREATMENT

CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM We have developed this exclusive program to specifically address the most common needs, desires, and concerns of the modern dental patient.

As I sit in the fire The veins that run deep Still beat So I know It will be okay For I’ve been burned before IG@thetrying_poet

BENEFITS INCLUDED AT NO ADDITIONAL COST: Unlimited exams & digital x-rays Teeth cleaning (2 healthy mouth cleanings per year) Fluoride treatment Anti-anxiety sedation Concierge services 24/7 Sonicare toothbrush 25% off all treatment

863.293.1807 155 2ND STREET SW WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 www.hewettdds.com 55

10% OFF Vertical Blinds* Stina’s AAA Vertical Blind Factory 785 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 325-8898 www.stinasblinds.com

*Must present coupon at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offer.

Groomingdeals, Inc.

10 Years of Service

Angie Todd

Owner / Groomer FamilyandOwned 2019

Operated

Best of WINNER 1616 Sixth Street S.E. Winter Haven, FL 33880

www.groomingdeals.com

(863) 294-PUPS (7877)

JULY CALENDAR 2021 *Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house. INAUGURAL BEATS AND BRUSHES EXHIBIT When: July 01 - 31, 2021 Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org The inaugural Beats and Brushes exhibit features four artists of color: Christine Samad, Leilah MarLee, Quanel D, and Russel Samad. This captivating exhibition blends abstract map-scapes, saturated magical realism brought to life in a 3D printed reality, with provincial decay photography to bring forward distinctive perspectives on shared experiences living in Central Florida. Various days & hours, call for reservations 863-676-8426. JOSEPHINE SACABO: THOSE WHO DANCE When: July 01 - Oct. 17, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Josephine Sacabo is an acclaimed, New Orleans-based contemporary photographer. As visitors will quickly realize, Sacabo (b. 1944) is one of the most poetic photographers actively working in the United States today and one whose ethereal and moving photographs look nothing like those of any other artist. Sacabo conjures a world of mystery and mysticism in her work, excavating stories about lives lived in secret struggle or without inhibition, reviving traditional processes of photography like photogravure and tintypes, and giving much-needed voice to women of the past whose legacies still inspire and haunt the artist to this day. 863-688-7743 Schedule your visit online. Y2K: ART AT THE TURN-OF-THE-21ST CENTURY FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION When: July 01 - Aug. 28, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org The works on display span the consequential

during the week and samples different foods from different restaurants that celebrate Happy Hour. Must be 21 with ID to attend. Tours must be purchased 48 hours in advance. Contact info@winterhavenfoodtours.com. Wed-Fri

period of 1998 to 2001, and, while most artists do not comment explicitly on the millennial change, their art is inseparable from the time in which they lived. Striving to produce meaningful art, artists, like everyone else in the late 1990s and early 2000s, grappled with a world on the cusp of great change and new realities, be they psychological, emotional, social, technological, or otherwise. 863-688-7743 reserve your spot online.

BRYAN RIVERS When: July 01, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

BEACHES, CREATURES & COWBOYS: FLORIDA MOVIE POSTERS When: July 01 - Sept. 25, 2021 Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center, 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales cityoflakewales.com Movie producers have been making films in Florida almost since the dawn of the industry. This exhibit presents a selection of colorful, eye-catching posters that advertised films. The posters and lobby cards in this exhibit depict some of Florida’s most famous films from the early 1920s to the present. 863-676-1759

THE LINE UP When: July 01, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Free entry, visit Balmoral Bar & Grill for LIVE Music from Mickenzie Peisher and others every Thursday. NATURE DISCOVERY: NATURE OBSERVATION STATION When: July 02, 2021 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join everyone in Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden and stop by the Nature Observation Station. Participate in activities designed for kids of all ages to build a deeper appreciation of nature. Register in advance. Free with general admission or membership. 863-734-1222

CIRO’S SWEET TOOTH DESSERT TOUR When: July 01, 2021 | 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com Get ready to taste delicious desserts showcased at amazing restaurants and stores. This tour is perfect for kids of all ages! 48 hours advance ticket purchase is required in order for the tour to run. Tastings are subject to change. Private tours are also available. Contact info@winterhavenfoodtours.com. Wed-Thurs

#FREEPEPIN @ THE POOR PORKER When: July 02, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: The Poor Porker 801 E Main St, Lakeland danielpepinmusic.com Join Daniel Pepin and Blake Free for a night of great drinks, food, and music! From the Beatles to Muse, a very eclectic mix of music played on the Spanish and Steel String guitar!

AFTERNOON FLAVORS OF WINTER HAVEN FOOD TOUR When: July 01, 2021 | 2-4:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com Your friendly tour guide will share history of food and the award winning city all while you sample delicious dishes. Get to know why Winter Haven is where we live, work, and play. Tickets must be purchased 48 hours in advance. Contact info@winterhavenfoodtours.com. Wed-Sun

JEFFERY ALLEN BAND When: July 02, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

WINTER HAVEN HAPPY HOUR WALKING TOUR When: July 01, 2021 | 4:30-7 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com The happy hour tour only focuses on bars and restaurants that host Happy Hours. Specifically for the happy hour it will visit a whiskey bar, union taproom, a few other pubs, and then end at Grove Roots brewery. This tour is different then our others. It’s only offered

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET SUMMER SEASON When: July 03, 2021 | 8-11 a.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-toeat” foods and freshly picked produce. Enjoy

live music and food trucks, pet friendly. The summer season lasts June - August. Located across from Grove Roots in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. YOGA FOR KIDS When: July 03, 2021 | 9-10:15 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Introduce your children to a gentle yoga practice that focuses on stress relief, anger management, self-awareness & a positive selfimage. Yoga mat, towel, or blanket; blocks (if desired), and water to stay hydrated. Children should wear clothes that are comfortable, yoga socks if needed to avoid sliding on the mat. Meet at the Terrace Garden. For kids ages 5 and up. This is a one-hour yoga class followed by a 10-minute meditation walk or activity (so parents can wrap up their yoga at 10:15 am). Free for members, included in general admission. Register in advance. 863-734-1222 HEART CENTERED YOGA AND MINDFUL MEDITATION When: July 03, 2021 | 9-10:15 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join Kelly Andrews for a class format that includes a slow, heartFULL yoga practice with time for relaxation, reflection, and gentle movements followed by a calming and nurturing meditation. All levels are welcome and encouraged to take this opportunity to be present and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat if you have one; otherwise, one will be provided. Free for members/$15 for nonmembers. 863-734-1222 NATURE ADVENTURERS: EXPLORING ANCIENT ISLANDS When: July 03, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Imagine what life was like when most of Florida was underwater and the Lake Wales Ridge was a series of islands. Kids can go for a ‘dig’ back to the past and discover what lived around our ancient islands. Free for members, $15 per family for non-members. Register in advance. 863-734-1222

Your One Stop Shop for All your Printing Needs

(863) 969-6280

info@theprinthousecompany.com theprinthousecompany.com

havenmagazines.com

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 58 -

RED, WHITE & BOOM When: July 03, 2021 | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Where: LEGOLAND Florida 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven http://legoland.com/florida/ Celebrate July 4th and summer fun with the only fireworks display that magically transforms into bursts of LEGO® bricks before your eyes! Experience the unique, annual spectacle all included in regular theme park admission. WINTER HAVEN BRUNCH TOUR When: July 03, 2021 | 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com Explore downtown Winter Haven and it’s charming restaurants that celebrate Brunch, Drinks, and of course history. This tour is different from our other tours. It’s only offered on the weekend and samples different foods from different restaurants that celebrate brunch. Must be 21 with ID to attend. All tours require 48 hours in advance notice. Contact info@winterhavenfoodtours.com. Sat + Sun

JIM THOMAS When: July 06, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

SIXX L SIXX When: July 03, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

JOHN FRINZI When: July 03, 2021 | 2 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

RED, WHITE & BOOM When: July 04, 2021 | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Where: LEGOLAND Florida 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven legoland.com/florida/ Celebrate July 4th and summer fun with the only fireworks display that magically transforms into bursts of LEGO® bricks before your eyes! Experience the unique, annual spectacle all included in regular theme park admission.

RED, WHITE & KABOOM When: July 03, 2021 | 6-9:15 p.m. Where: Lake Mirror, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland lakelandgov.net The 60 West Band will be entertaining the crowd before the fireworks display at 9:00 p.m. They ask all those attending to please bring a canned food item that will help those in need. All non-perishable items benefit Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE).

SUNDAY FAMILY FUNDAY When: July 04, 2021 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City Brunch menu from 11am-2pm with Bottomless Mimosas & Bloody Marys. A DJ will be spinning tunes and playing family-friendly games from 12-4pm! Water Park Day passes start at just $15! Purchase water park passes at: balmoralbarandgrill.com/water-park.

havenmagazines.com

INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH DANNY BROOKS & LIL MISS DEBBIE When: July 04, 2021 | 2 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

ROCKIN’ FREEDOM FEST When: July 03, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven mywinterhaven.com/event/2021-rockinfreedom-fest/ Join The City of Winter Haven as they celebrate our Nation’s Independence at the Chain of Lakes Stadium! All are invited to enjoy this free fresh air event, bring lawn chairs or a blanket. Celebrate with live entertainment from B. Haven, food trucks, and much more, followed by a fireworks presentation.

TACO + TRIVIA TUESDAYS When: July 06, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Enjoy $2 tacos + $3 margaritas and play Trivia with Mike Lee. PALM BEACH CARDINALS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 06, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor League Baseball, purchase tickets in advance. SOWING SEEDS OF KINDNESS When: July 07, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Garden activities offer many opportunities to practice thoughtfulness, caring, and gratitude. Bring your children to decorate and fill seed

packets, one to keep and one that can be planted or shared with someone as a random act of kindness. Free for members, $15 per person for non-members, register in advance. 863-734-1222 HOLD ON I KNOW THIS When: July 07, 2021 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Trivia! Free to play. PALM BEACH CARDINALS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 07, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor League Baseball, purchase tickets in advance. BRIMER & RICHARDS When: July 08, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks. PALM BEACH CARDINALS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 08, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor League Baseball, purchase tickets in advance.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 60 -

room and a view !

SENIOR LIVING WITH

Large apartments, delicious restaurant-style dining, fun daily activities, and expert care if needed, located on beautiful Lake Hartridge MOVE-IN SPECIALS GOING ON NOW!

Call Spring Haven (863) 265-4004 to schedule your in-person tour.

1225 Havendale Blvd NW · Winter Haven · www.spring-haven.com A MERIDIAN SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

Make a Moove to Central

#HA VEN

ALF LIC# AL5504

p #Shoal Loc

#BUICK

219

2021 Buick Encore GX $

Lease from

per mo.*

309

We’reng Cars! Buyi

2021 Buick Envision $

Lease from

1555 1st St. S, Winter Haven, FL 33880

per mo.*

up, , trade t? in e d a r igh ot oking t r vehicle out r akes lo u o y Are ell you ! All m or just s want to buy it e us a call iv We ote! dels! G and mo get a quick qu to

(863) 299-1221

CentralBuickGMCTruck.com 59

NATURE DISCOVERY: NATURE GAMES When: July 09, 2021 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Visit Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden to play some nature games. You will be using natural found objects and the natural world as your Discovery. Free with general admission or membership. 863-734-1222 POINT OF VIEW GALLERY TALK: FSC SUMMER INTERNS When: July 09, 2021 | 12-1:30 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org As a culminating experience of their summers at the Museum, undergraduate interns in the Polk Museum Summer Internship Program will lecture in the galleries on specialized topics, offering visitors a unique and fresh perspective on current exhibitions. Come support the academic programming and future museum professionals! Reserve your spot online. 863-688-7743 PALM BEACH CARDINALS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 09, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor League Baseball, purchase tickets in advance. BRIMER & MADORE When: July 09, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

MAMMA MIA! When: July 09 - 25, 2021 Where: Lakeland Community Theatre 121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland lakelandcommunitytheatre.com ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. 863-603-7529

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH When: July 10, 2021 | 11 a.m. Where: Inside Out Yoga 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Join Cosmic Sound Healer, Buffy La Roux as she facilitates a high vibratory journey of Sound through time and space. During this deeply meditative and transformative experience, Buffy guides you inward through a sound bath of deeply shifting vocal toning, singing, frequencies and quartz crystal singing bowls. Each Crystal Sound Bath is a unique symphony and a dance of the collective energies present for the Well Being of All and the Amplification of Love. Register in advance. 863-224-2311

SOUL TRACKS When: July 09, 2021 | 8 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com The Music of Soul Train performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! Gates open at 7 PM, show starts at 8 PM. Reserve your ticket in advance. 863-294-7469

TREK THE TRI-CITIES: POLK CITY, AUBURNDALE & WINTER HAVEN When: July 10, 2021 | 11 a.m. polk-county.net Zoom & Vroom is a virtual program that features: A virtual history lesson with question and answer opportunities on a variety of topics. A routed half to full day driving tour that guides you from one historic location to the next. Interactive activities designed for all ages. Thematic activities including crafts and recipes. Suggested book readings to extend the learning experience. Zoom sessions are broadcast on the county Facebook page at 11am on the 2nd Saturday of each month, additional materials can be picked up at the Polk County History Center Tuesday — Saturday between 9am and 5pm.

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET SUMMER SEASON When: July 10, 2021 | 8-11 a.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-toeat” foods and freshly picked produce. Enjoy live music and food trucks, pet friendly. The summer season lasts June - August. Located across from Grove Roots in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

THE FLORIDA GARDENER: NATIVE PLANTS IN YOUR HOME GARDEN When: July 10, 2021 | 2-3 p.m. boktowergardens.org Join the Florida Gardener program and learn how to bring your landscape to life and about

the benefits and beauty of incorporating native plants into your home garden. Free for members, $10 for non-members. Requires reservation for members and purchase for non-members. Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you. 863-734-1222 SG WOOD SOLO When: July 10, 2021 | 2 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks. PALM BEACH CARDINALS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 10, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor League Baseball, purchase tickets in advance. SPITFIRE When: July 10, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks. GRATEFUL DEAD NIGHT FEATURING UNLIMITED DEVOTION When: July 10, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Ritz Theatre 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Unlimited Devotion, one of America’s top tributes to the Grateful Dead makes their first visit to the Ritz in Winter Haven ! This show is

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 62 -

Ewing, Blackwelder & Duce Insurance

Shopping Local Matters We can save you time and money with all your insurance needs. www.ebdins.com

Mike Trueheart

Karl Duce, AAI

635 1st St., Winter Haven

1330 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven

Phone: 863-293-4864

Phone: 863-293-2838

Agent

havenmagazines.com

Agent

@ebdinsonline

Your piggy bank is going to love you.

Save by becoming a new customer, adding Drivewise and having safe driving habits.

Polston Insurance Agency 767 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven (863) 294-7637 // lynnpolston@allstate.com Savings vary based on Drivewise and other safe-driving discounts. Prices vary based on how you buy. Subject to terms, conditions, and availability. Not Applicable in CA, Allstate Fire Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates © 2020 Allstate Insurance Co.

a benefit concert for The Ritz! Please come out and support this wonderful historic venue as you dance the night away to Unlimited Devotion ! SUNDAY FAMILY FUNDAY When: July 11, 2021 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City Brunch menu from 11am-2pm with Bottomless Mimosas & Bloody Marys. A live DJ will be spinning tunes and playing family-friendly games from 12-4pm! Water Park Day passes start at just $15! Purchase water park passes at: balmoralbarandgrill.com/water-park. PALM BEACH CARDINALS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 11, 2021 | 1 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor League Baseball, purchase tickets in advance. JIM THOMAS When: July 11, 2021 | 2 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks. NATURAL WOMAN: TRIBUTE TO CAROLE KING When: July 11, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com The Music of Carole King with Katie Pinder Brown performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars!Gates open at 6 PM, show starts at 7 PM, reserve your ticket in advance. 863-294-7469 OPEN MIC NIGHT When: July 12, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St. NW, Winter Haven gpderrydown.com Musicians of all ages are invited to play in this historic venue, to perform up to 3 songs. Beginners, veteran performers, singersongwriters, and anyone who wants to work on their craft in a supportive communal environment are welcome. There is no cost to attend. All Acoustic Open Mic Night happens the first Monday night each month at Gram Parsons Derry Down.

havenmagazines.com

PATTY KENOLY When: July 15, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

NATURE DISCOVERY: EPHEMERAL ART WITH NATURE When: July 13, 2021 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org The beauty of nature is often fleeting. Ephemeral Art embraces the momentary beauty of nature. Kids can visit the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden to create temporary art using natural materials. Free with general admission or membership.

ONCE ON THIS ISLAND When: July 15 - Aug. 01, 2021 Where: Theatre Winter Haven, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Winner of 20 Tony-Awards for Best Musical. Ti Moune, a peasant girl, rescues a wealthy boy from the other side of the island, Daniel, with whom she falls in love. Unbeknownst to Ti Moune, the pompous gods who preside over the island make a bet with one another over which is stronger, love or death, the stakes being Ti Moune’s life. Reserve your tickets in advance. 863-294-7469

VIRTUAL FOSTER CARE CLASSES When: July 13, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org/become July Classes:7/13 to 7/29: Tuesdays & Thursdays. To register, call 863-519-8900 x 289 or fill out information at heartlandforchildren.org/become

PASSPORT TO A CURE When: July 16, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Venue 650 650 6th St. SW, Winter Haven relayforlife.org/polkfl Relay for Life of Polk County presents a “Passport to a Cure” with food trucks, entertainment and a Luminaria Ceremony. Register in advance online. More info on Facebook @PolkRFL

OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH CRISTI MASSEY When: July 13, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland TACO + TRIVIA TUESDAYS When: July 13, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Enjoy $2 tacos + $3 margaritas and play Trivia with Mike Lee.

JOHNNY WILD & THE DELIGHTS When: July 16, 2021 | 8 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium, 500 Cletus Allen Drive, Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Surfin’ Safari with Andy Matchett performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! With their energetic and authentic approach to the music of the 50’s and 60’s, Johnny Wild and the Delights have quickly become the premier tribute project in the Southeast, breathing new life into the sounds of the classic era. Purchase tickets in advance. 863-294-7469

SOWING THE SEEDS OF COMPASSION When: July 14, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Children can help understand compassion and caring for others through a seed sowing project they will nurture at home. Free for members, $15 per person for non-members, register in advance. 863-734-1222 MORNING BOOK CLUB: LEAVE THE WORLD BEHIND BY RUMAAN ALAM When: July 14, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven mywinterhaven.com The Morning Book Club meets on the second Wednesday of every month. Titles include a variety of adult fiction, nonfiction and biographies. 863- 291-5880

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET SUMMER SEASON When: July 17, 2021 | 8-11 a.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-toeat” foods and freshly picked produce. Enjoy live music and food trucks, pet friendly. The summer season lasts June - August. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

HOLD ON I KNOW THIS When: July 14, 2021 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Trivia! Free to play.

NATURE DISCOVERY: EPHEMERAL ART WITH NATURE When: July 17, 2021 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org The beauty of nature is often fleeting. Ephemeral Art embraces the momentary beauty of nature. Kids can visit Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden to create temporary art using natural materials. Free with general admission or membership. 863-734-1222 YOGA FOR KIDS When: July 17, 2021 | 9-10:15 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Introduce your children to a gentle yoga practice that focuses on stress relief, anger management, self-awareness & a positive selfimage. Yoga mat, towel, or blanket; blocks (if desired), and water to stay hydrated. Children should wear clothes that are comfortable, yoga socks if needed to avoid sliding on the mat. Meet at the Terrace Garden. For kids ages 5 and up. This is a one-hour yoga class followed by a 10-minute meditation walk or activity (so parents can wrap up their yoga at 10:15 am). Free for members, included in general admission. Register in advance. 863-734-1222 YOGA ON THE LAWN When: July 17, 2021 | 9-10:15 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. http://boktowergardens.org Join Jody Reece for a morning of bending, breathing, and relaxing in the great outdoors. ‚ÄØ This inclusive yoga class includes slow, gentle movements, breathing techniques, and extended mindful meditation. All levels are welcome. Beginners are encouraged to attend. Please bring a yoga mat if you have one; otherwise, one will be provided.Free for members/$15 for non-members, register in advance. 863-734-1222. VIRTUAL FOSTER CARE CLASSES When: July 17 - 31, 2021 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org/become Saturdays, to register, call 863-519-8900 x 289 or fill out information at heartlandforchildren.org/become INAUGURAL BEATS AND BRUSHES EXHIBIT SATURDAY SHENANIGANS When: July 17, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales akewalesartscouncil.org Beats and Brushes exhibit features four artists

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 64 -

Defense attorney. Father. Outdoors man. A Life well planned allows you to

LIVE YOUR LIFE.

Backed by sophisticated resources and a team of professionals in every field, a Raymond James financial advisor can help you plan for the dreams you have, the way you care for those you love and how you choose to give back. So you can live your life.

Brad Dantzler, AAMS®

Managing Director Senior Vice President, Investments

141 5th Street NW, Suite 100 || Winter Haven, FL 33881 863.298.9569 || 866.309.7515 brad.dantzler@raymondjames.com || www.braddantzler.com

of color: Christine Samad, Leilah MarLee, Quanel D, and Russel Samad. This captivating exhibition blends abstract map-scapes, saturated magical realism brought to life in a 3D printed reality, with provincial decay photography to bring forward distinctive perspectives on shared experiences living in Central Florida. ARCHITECTURAL TOUR When: July 17, 2021 | 11 a.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow polk-county.net Discover the history behind the founding of the county and the design of the brilliant 1908 Courthouse. With a nod to its two predecessors, this tour explores the design, construction, and function of the courthouse. The tour incorporates cross-curricular themes in history and fine arts. This program is offered on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. TREASURE HUNT DOWNTOWN When: July 17, 2021 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Downtown Winter Haven mainstreetwh.com Presented by Main Street Winter Haven, and Downtown businesses. Children under the age of 12 will search for LEGO® Minifigures in the participating locations Downtown! Pick up your FREE treasure map from the Historic Ritz Theatre, and participating downtown businesses will hide a LEGO® Minifigure inside their business.Once you have spotted the LEGO® Minifigure, tell the business owner and they will mark your map. Turn in your map by 2pm to be entered into the drawing for one of several prizes, including tickets to LEGOLAND. *All children participating in the event must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI SHOW When: July 17, 2021 | 5-7 p.m. Where: American Legion Post 8 300 Ave M NW, Winter Haven cypressgardensskiteam.com On the 3rd Saturday of each month, bring a chair or blanket and watch the world famous ski team perform on Lake Silver. Watch from American Legion Post 8, 300 Ave M NW in Downtown Winter Haven while MLK Park is under construction.

Pepin playing a special show together! A combination of steel string, and nylon string guitar versions of your favorite songs! BUILDING RESILIENCE THROUGH DRUMMING When: July 20, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Resilience Through Drumming, is a structured learning program using drums to reconnect with ourselves and others. Participants will enjoy personal growth and insight while drumming on djembe drums. No previous drumming experience necessary. Free for members, $15 per person for non-members. 863-734-1222

SUNDAY FAMILY FUNDAY When: July 18, 2021 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City Brunch menu from 11am-2pm with Bottomless Mimosas & Bloody Marys. A live DJ will be spinning tunes and playing family-friendly games from 12-4pm! Water Park Day passes start at just $15! Purchase water park passes at: www.balmoralbarandgrill.com/water-park.

TUESDAY BOOK CLUB: LAST TRAIN TO ISTANBUL BY AYSE KULIN When: July 20, 2021 | 4 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Public Library, 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven mywinterhaven.com The Tuesday Book Club meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 4 p.m. Titles include a variety of adult fiction, nonfiction and biographies. (863) 291-5880

MUSIC OF THE POLICE & STING When: July 18, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium, 500 Cletus Allen Drive, Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! Reserve tickets in advance. 863-294-7469

TACO + TRIVIA TUESDAYS When: July 20, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Enjoy $2 tacos + $3 margaritas and play Trivia with Mike Lee.

#FREEPEPIN (BLAKE FREE AND DANIEL PEPIN) When: July 19, 2021 | 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Where: Gary’s Grove Lounge, 2995 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven danielpepinmusic.com Catch local musicians Blake Free and Daniel

SOWING THE SEEDS OF FRIENDSHIP When: July 21, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Garden activities offer many opportunities to practice thoughtfulness, caring, and gratitude. Join us with your children as they discover what it means to be a thoughtful friend and how to make friendships grow. you will make and take home a seed laced card that can be given or planted together with a friend.Free for members, $15 per person for non-members. 863-734-1222 MOONLIGHT MARKET When: July 21, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven The Moonlight Market is comprised of vendors from all over Central Florida, local food trucks, and and live music. THE LINE UP When: July 22, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Free entry, visit Balmoral Bar & Grill for LIVE Music from Mickenzie Peisher and others every Thursday. SIXX L SIXX When: July 23, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 66 -

July Customer Special

Family Fun Day

15% Off

Presented by Bridge Church

July 17, 10am-1pm In Central Park, Downtown Winter Haven

With ad. Excluding Furniture.

Music • Games • Food • Backpack Giveaways

– 605 E. Central Ave., Winter Haven – 863.291.8585 // Mon: Closed, Tues- Sat 10-4pm

BRIDGE CHURCH COMING SEPT 2021 LIVE LIFE CONNECTED with GOD, PEOPLE, and GENEROSITY

bridgewh.com | 804.536.4458 | havenmagazines.com

LOFI REVIVAL When: July 23, 2021 | 7-11 p.m. Where: Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St. NW, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Listen to Lofi music by Deek Beats, cash bar by Revival, food truck by Nutwood. $7 to enter, limited space. Purchase tickets in advance. THE MUSIC OF VAN HALEN When: July 23, 2021 | 8 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium, 500 Cletus Allen Drive, Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! The Best Of Both Worlds is the Ultimate Tribute To Van Halen The Sammy Hagar Years! Reserve ticket in advance. 863-294-7469 WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET SUMMER SEASON When: July 24, 2021 | 8-11 a.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-toeat” foods and freshly picked produce. Enjoy live music and food trucks, pet friendly. The summer season lasts June - August.Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

havenmagazines.com

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE WITH SPICY PEPPERS: MAKE YOUR OWN FIRE CIDER When: July 24, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Learn the health benefits of hot peppers and make your own ‘fire cider’ to take home. Fire cider is being rediscovered as a health boosting tonic. $10 per person for members, $15 per person for non-members. Register in advance. 863-734-1222

$15! Purchase water park passes at: www. balmoralbarandgrill.com/water-park.

Minor league baseball, purchase tickets in advance.

NATURE DISCOVERY: INSECTS UP CLOSE When: July 27, 2021 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Free with general admission or membership. 863-734-1222

NAUTIQUE WWA WAKEBOARD NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2021 When: July 28 -31, 2021 Where: Lake Silver 871 3rd St NW, Winter Haven thewwa.com The WWA is the world’s premier provider of amateur and professional wakeboard events, sanctioning and rules, developed by riders, for riders. July 28-31, full schedule online.

DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF EAST POLK/RIDGE When: July 27, 2021 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: The R-Place Eatery 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 (863242-3230) and annehuffman01@gmail.com

SHAWN RAHN WITH FULL BAND When: July 24, 2021 | 2 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Live music, locally-made craft beer & food trucks. WALTER PARKS FEATURES EDAN ARCHER When: July 24, 2021 | 7:30 p.m. Where: Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St. NW, Winter Haven gpderrydown.com Walter will introduce Edan Archer to the Derry Down stage for a night of soul stirring music you won’t want to miss. Doors open at 6:30 and the show starts at 7:30 pm.

TACO + TRIVIA TUESDAYS When: July 27, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Enjoy $2 tacos + $3 margaritas and play Trivia with Mike Lee.

SUNDAY FAMILY FUNDAY When: July 25, 2021 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City Brunch menu from 11am-2pm with Bottomless Mimosas & Bloody Marys. A DJ will be spinning tunes and playing family-friendly games from 12-4pm! Water Park Day passes start at just

JUPITER HAMMERHEADS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 27, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07

SOWING THE SEEDS OF PATIENCE When: July 28, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Garden activities with children offer many opportunities to practice thoughtfulness, caring, and gratitude. Your children will weave lessons of patience using a portable flower press and creating art with dried flowers and plants. Free for members, $15 per person for non-members. 863-734-1222 REPUBLICAN WOMEN’S CLUB OF LAKELAND When: July 28, 2021 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Grasslands Golf & Country Club 1600 Grasslands Blvd., Lakeland 4th Wednesday of each month. Make Reservations: - Noel Trees — 863-680-1340. We are a friendly group of Republican Women of all ages who enjoy sharing political views and meeting our candidates as they present their platforms to us at our luncheon meeting. We volunteer for a variety of events — i.e. 1st

Friday, downtown Lakeland, voting registration of new residents of Lakeland, as well as promoting college students to get involved in the political environment. We welcome visitors and are always seeking new members to join us. For additional info, contact Jane Stevenson, Treasurer, stevenjane11365@aol.com JUPITER HAMMERHEADS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: Jul. 28, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor league baseball, purchase tickets in advance. THE LINE UP When: July 29, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Balmoral Bar and Grill 124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City feltrimresorts.com Free entry, visit Balmoral Bar & Grill for LIVE Music from Mickenzie Peisher and others every Thursday. JUPITER HAMMERHEADS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 29, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor league baseball, purchase tickets in advance. WAWA SUMMER FUN DAY When: July 30, 2021 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Enjoy complimentary admission compliments

of Wawa. Committed to the communities they serve, Wawa is keeping the Gardens growing with their generous support.

the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY When: July30, 2021 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Bartow Executive Airport 5993 Airport Blvd, Bartow facebook.com/BartowAirport Fly in, drive in, or walk in to grab a bite to eat on the airside ramp of the airport. Outdoor and indoor seating with views of the runways and taxiways will be available during the event. This is a once month event on the last Friday of the month. Each month will host a different food truck.

NATURE DISCOVERY: INSECTS UP CLOSE When: July 31, 2021 | 9-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Bok Tower Gardens is home to a myriad of insects from Ant Lions to the Zebra Longwing butterflies. Get an up-close look at some of these often-misunderstood creatures.Free with general admission or membership. 863-734-1222 GENEALOGY SPEAKER SERIES When: July 31, 2021 | 10 a.m. polk-county.net The Genealogy Speaker Series is a free monthly program that takes place on the last Saturday of the month. The programs will be held virtually through Zoom, so you can participate from the safety and comfort of your own home. Registration is required, so if you are interested, contact the library or email Preston Petermeier at PrestonPetermeier@polk-county.net.

JUPITER HAMMERHEADS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July 30, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor league baseball, purchase tickets in advance. WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET SUMMER SEASON When: July 31, 2021 | 8-11 a.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-toeat” foods and freshly picked produce. Enjoy live music and food trucks, pet friendly. The summer season lasts June - August.Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of

INAUGURAL BEATS AND BRUSHES EXHIBIT ART AFTER DARK When: July 31, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org The inaugural Beats and Brushes exhibit features four artists of color: Christine Samad, Leilah MarLee, Quanel D, and Russel Samad. This captivating exhibition blends abstract map-scapes, saturated magical realism

brought to life in a 3D printed reality, with provincial decay photography to bring forward distinctive perspectives on shared experiences living in Central Florida. Art After Dark will have live music and a food truck. Purchase tickets in advance at centralfloridatix.com JUPITER HAMMERHEADS VS LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS When: July31, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland milb.com/lakeland/schedule/2021-07 Minor league baseball, purchase tickets in advance. LES DUDEK LIVE & UNPLUGGED When: July 31, 2021 | 7:30 p.m. Where: Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St. NW, Winter Haven gpderrydown.com One of Polk’s Counties own, you won’t want to miss this event! Recording artist, Les Dudek, is known in the music world as a Guitar Legend whose contributions have influenced the history of Rock ‘n’ Roll. *Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house.

Help make us BEST OF HAVEN VOTE for Eye Specialists of Mid Florida! Vote before July 31ST

Trust YOUR vision with the BEST! Auburndale

Lakeland-Harden

Clermont

Lakeland-Highlands

Haines City

Sebring

Lake Wales

Winter Haven

202 Magnolia Ave 1050 US Hwy 27 N 100 Patterson Rd 2800 A Ridge Way

3350 Harden Blvd

2004 Co. Rd. 540 A

Eye Exams

Retina

Eyelid Lifts

Cataracts

Glaucoma

LASIK

5032 US Hwy 27 N 407 Ave K, SE

800.282.EYES(3937) • EyesFL.com • FB.com/EyesFL 67

Sold Dollar Home 91.87% 2020: $179,978,973 2021: $345,320,995

Avg. Sale Price 25.47% 2020: $209,766 2021: $263,202

Units Sold

How Many Buyers Are Looking For Your House?

52.91% 2020: 858 2021: 1,312

Active Listings -74.34% 2020: 2,860 2021: 734 havenmagazines.com

863-419-9010 863-875-5656 304 East Park St, 36248 US-17, Haines City Auburndale

863-324-1000 230 W. Central Ave, Winter Haven

Numbers reflect sums for May of 2020 & 2021 in Polk County 68

SOLD HOMES

325 GARDENIA RD.......................................BARTOW..............5/7/2021............$100,000 3407 HIGHLAND ST.....................................BARTOW............5/10/2021........... $245,000 343 W DAVIDSON ST...................................BARTOW.............5/6/2021..............$70,000 4265 PALM DR..............................................BARTOW............. 5/4/2021..............$58,200

AUBURNDALE

4640 SALLY DR............................................BARTOW............. 5/4/2021............... $87,100 5896 BARNES RD.........................................BARTOW............. 5/5/2021............ $215,000

106 DIAMOND RIDGE BLVD............... AUBURNDALE............. 5/5/2021............ $210,000

825 W MCLEOD ST.......................................BARTOW............. 5/5/2021............ $247,000

1608 LAKE ARIANA BLVD................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/3/2021............$160,000

DAVENPORT

166 OAKVIEW AVE.............................. AUBURNDALE............. 5/5/2021............. $115,000 212 BOONE DR..................................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/4/2021............. $50,000

1004 BERRY LN.......................................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021........$5,640,000

212 VALENCIA RIDGE DR.................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/4/2021.............. $81,000

1035 AERIDES WAY................................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021........... $263,000

2258 PALMVIEW CIR........................... AUBURNDALE..............5/7/2021............$274,000

1101 HENDON LOOP...............................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021...........$340,000

2811 MURCOTT ST............................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/5/2021............$399,900

111 REDDING ST.......................................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............$150,000

305 ESTRELLA WAY............................ AUBURNDALE.............5/6/2021............ $158,000

1110 BERRY LN.........................................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021........ $2,550,000

311 TRAVELERS CREEK DR.................. AUBURNDALE..............5/7/2021........... $330,000

1116 FOX PATH RD...................................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021........... $340,500

364 CASCARA LN................................ AUBURNDALE............. 5/5/2021........... $240,200

115 REDDING ST......................................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............$150,000

407 ANDERSON DR............................ AUBURNDALE............. 5/3/2021.............$227,600

143 ARNOLD PALMER DR......................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021..............$99,900

413 KEAT AVE....................................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/5/2021............$150,000

184 FOXTAIL LOOP................................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............ $222,900

459 LAKE VISTA DR............................. AUBURNDALE............. 5/5/2021............$387,400

188 CLOVERBROOK TRL.......................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............$250,900

464 OPAL AVE..................................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/3/2021...........$360,000

204 ANDALUSIA LOOP..........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021.............$250,100

493 ADAMS VIEW LN.......................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/4/2021..............$75,000

2177 LAKE SIDE AVE................................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021........... $370,000

495 ARNESON AVE............................. AUBURNDALE............. 5/3/2021............ $126,000

219 TOMELLOSO WAY...........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............ $305,100

514 TANGLEWOOD DR....................... AUBURNDALE............. 5/4/2021............. $90,000

232 BERGAMOT LOOP...........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021........... $284,300

633 RAYMOND LOOP......................... AUBURNDALE.............5/6/2021..............$75,000

232 FOXTAIL LOOP................................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021.............$219,700

643 WATERFERN TRAIL DR................ AUBURNDALE.............5/6/2021............ $178,000

240 BERGAMOT LOOP..........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............ $252,700

755 AUBURN PRESERVE BLVD........... AUBURNDALE........... 5/22/2021........... $246,000

249 WESTRIDGE RD..............................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............$190,000

BARTOW

2637 CAMDEN PARK LOOP...................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021...........$388,400 2642 CAMDEN PARK LOOP...................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021........... $306,300

1160 E HILL CT...............................................BARTOW............. 5/5/2021............. $151,800

2645 CAMDEN PARK LOOP..................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021............$295,500

1170 HERMOSA.............................................BARTOW............. 5/4/2021...........$200,000

2649 CAMDEN PARK LOOP..................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021.............$391,200

135 KISSENGEN PARK BLVD.........................BARTOW............. 5/3/2021........... $299,000

317 NAVARRA LN....................................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021........... $290,000

1490 S GORDON AVE...................................BARTOW............. 5/3/2021...........$208,000

338 CITRUS ISLE LOOP..........................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............$296,900

1825 EMERSON AVE.....................................BARTOW............. 5/5/2021...........$300,000

368 CITRUS POINTE DR........................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021.............$257,900

1910 HAMILTON ST.......................................BARTOW.............5/11/2021.............. $62,700

3804 HUNTWICKE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021.............$221,000

2055 S FLORAL AVE.....................................BARTOW..............5/7/2021............. $86,000

385 PRESERVE POINTE BLVD................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021.............$250,100

2160 E MAIN ST.............................................BARTOW.............5/11/2021............$130,000

497 NOBLE AVE......................................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021........... $299,000

2782 FRAZIER ST..........................................BARTOW............. 5/5/2021........... $205,000

555 GUNSTON CT..................................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............$332,500

290 S COURTLAND AVE..............................BARTOW............5/10/2021...............$51,500

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 70 -

601 GRAN BAHAMA BLVD.....................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............$130,000

750 LAFAYETTE LN.................................HAINES CITY............. 5/4/2021............ $267,000

604 JETT LN............................................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021........ $2,550,000

812 TETON ST.........................................HAINES CITY............. 5/5/2021............ $265,700

611 CITRUS ISLE BLVD............................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021............$276,200

828 TETON ST........................................HAINES CITY..............5/7/2021.............$275,100

713 ARNOLD PALMER DR......................DAVENPORT............5/10/2021............. $90,000 715 BRIARGROVE AVE............................DAVENPORT.............5/6/2021........... $260,000

LAKE WALES

856 BROOKLET DR................................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021........... $303,300

225 MARKET ST...................................... LAKE WALES..............5/7/2021............$150,000

1138 AUGUSTUS DR...............................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............ $315,800

718 HIBISCUS AVE.................................. LAKE WALES..............5/7/2021............$252,900

204 SIESTA VISTA CT.............................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............. $131,600

244 LOURDES ST................................... LAKE WALES............. 5/4/2021........... $238,000

2125 ROYAL RIDGE DR...........................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021........... $280,000

140 APPALOOSA TRL............................. LAKE WALES.............5/6/2021............ $125,000

213 SIESTA VISTA CT...............................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............. $131,600

3705 PINE CIR......................................... LAKE WALES............. 5/4/2021............ $316,000

321 SAN CARLO RD................................DAVENPORT............. 5/3/2021............ $319,000

379 BEAR TRL......................................... LAKE WALES.............5/11/2021.............$110,000

1500 CHELSEA DR..................................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021............$226,000

425 LONGHORN DR.............................. LAKE WALES............. 5/4/2021............. $99,000

1687 KONA LN........................................DAVENPORT..............5/7/2021............$534,300

564 WATERWAY DR............................... LAKE WALES............. 5/5/2021............$140,000

2007 LELANI CIR....................................DAVENPORT............5/27/2021.............$619,200

86 ROSALIE OAKS BLVD........................ LAKE WALES............. 5/4/2021.............. $72,500

2225 CALABRIA AVE..............................DAVENPORT.............5/8/2021............ $155,000 3574 MONACO LN..................................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021........... $290,400

LAKELAND

3577 MONACO LN..................................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021.............$277,200

1512 NEPTUNE DR......................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021.............$187,000

3851 MARBELLA WAY............................DAVENPORT.............5/6/2021............ $279,200

1723 ROTARY DR.......................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............$180,000

4958 VELLACITO WAY...........................DAVENPORT............. 5/5/2021........... $289,000

2524 KIWANIS AVE....................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............ $184,300

4964 VELLACITO WAY..........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............ $313,800

443 WILSON AVE......................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............$100,000

4970 VELLACITO WAY...........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............$298,700

1403 LEIGHTON AVE.................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021........... $254,000

4976 VELLACITO WAY...........................DAVENPORT............. 5/4/2021............$343,200

2016 SEMINOLE TRL.................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021...........$445,000

734 LA MIRAGE ST.................................DAVENPORT.............5/6/2021............ $155,000

2112 CAROLINA AVE..................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$375,000

HAINES CITY

2927 ELLIS AVE..........................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021.............$174,900 2997 MISSION LAKES DR..........................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............$232,000

1084 ZION DR.........................................HAINES CITY............. 5/5/2021............$269,900

304 E PALM DR..........................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021.............$411,000

1189 FOREST GATE CIR..........................HAINES CITY............. 5/4/2021.............$231,800

622 W PARK ST..........................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021........... $228,000

1323 LASSEN ST......................................HAINES CITY............. 5/3/2021.............$251,000

623 EASTON DR........................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............ $515,000

1371 LASSEN ST.......................................HAINES CITY..............5/7/2021............$285,700

624 PRADO PL...........................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............$296,500

2404 PRYOR AVE...................................HAINES CITY............. 5/4/2021............$198,000

1002 9TH ST...............................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021.............. $77,000

251 PATTERSON RD F#13........................HAINES CITY..............5/7/2021..............$55,000

1331 ALAMEDA DR.....................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021........... $245,000

285 CITRUS POINTE DR.........................HAINES CITY.............5/6/2021..............$271,100

1342 HERITAGE LANDINGS DR.................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............ $421,000

289 CITRUS POINTE DR........................HAINES CITY............. 5/5/2021............$278,300

1622 SAINT JAMES AVE..............................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$202,900

412 ANDREA CIR.....................................HAINES CITY............. 5/3/2021............ $246,100

2336 CASPIAN DR.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$275,000

499 MEADOW POINTE DR....................HAINES CITY............5/10/2021............$292,300

2435 TORRENS DR....................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021........... $339,000

5721 JO ANN RD......................................HAINES CITY............. 5/5/2021............. $65,000

3963 FLORIDA AVE...................................LAKELAND...........5/28/2021............. $50,000

608 BOARDWALK AVE..........................HAINES CITY............. 5/5/2021........... $293,000

3967 FLORIDA AVE...................................LAKELAND...........5/28/2021............. $50,000

havenmagazines.com

5889 GREAT SALT CT................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............ $213,000

4302 OLLIE RD..........................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............ $160,500

930 GRIFFIN RD.........................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........$2,490,000

5550 HILLSIDE LANDINGS RD..................LAKELAND............5/10/2021........... $585,000

11651 MOORE RD.......................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021......... $1,750,000

5801 MANCHESTER DR............................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............$252,000

11785 MOORE RD......................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021......... $1,750,000

704 HEMLOCK LN.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............. $191,000

1419 HAMMOCK SHADE DR.....................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021........... $250,000

7042 SCENIC HILLS BLVD.........................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............$235,000

206 TARA CT.............................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............ $261,000

8023 KAITLIN CIR.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............$254,300

210 WILDWOOD AVE................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............ $210,000

8236 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR..............LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$250,300

325 CORONADO CT.................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $220,000

2010 CREEKBEND DR................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............ $277,000

5910 CRAFTON DR....................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............$183,000

3267 BAYOU BAY DR.................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $250,000

5910 MALLARD DR....................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$232,000

4014 WHISTLEWOOD CIR........................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............$275,000

6227 PEACOCK RUN.................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$270,000

4162 SHEARWATER ST..............................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............$295,200

6285 DEEN STILL RD.................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021.........$1,442,000

4221 SALT SPRINGS LN..............................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $286,900

8610 SUNNYDALE LN...............................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021.............$122,600

4225 SALT SPRINGS LN.............................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021.............$272,700

1123 APOLLO CT........................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............. $191,000

4246 SALT SPRINGS LN.............................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$244,700

1519 LEHALL SQ.........................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............$555,000

4250 SALT SPRINGS LN.............................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............ $286,100

1826 ALTAVISTA CIR..................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021.............$512,500

5701 ARLINGTON RIVER DR.....................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $256,000

2211 GRAND CYPRESS DR.........................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............$207,000

6128 ABBEY OAKS WAY............................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$622,000

2238 BELLA LUNA CIR...............................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............$338,500

3101 BIG VALLEY DR..................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021........... $245,000

2415 GALLOWAY RD.................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021............. $58,000

3148 HIGHLANDS BY THE LAKE WAY......LAKELAND..............5/7/2021........... $349,000

2615 HUNTINGTON HILLS DR..................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $339,000

3159 PEARLY DR........................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021...........$440,000

2914 KOHEN CT.........................................LAKELAND............5/10/2021...............$61,500

3350 PEARLY DR.......................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021...........$430,000

2931 KOHEN CT.........................................LAKELAND............5/10/2021...............$61,500

4219 WINDING VINE DR............................LAKELAND............5/10/2021............ $185,500

3467 SUTTON RIDGE ST...........................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$275,000

4676 CLUBHOUSE RD..............................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$235,000

3959 SUNSET LAKE DR.............................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021........... $470,000

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 72 -

SAVE BIG WITH MULTIPLE POLICIES

Savings just a call away!

Purchasing home, auto, and boat is just one of many ways to save. Get smart and save hundreds with Farmers multi-policy discounts!

863.259.1826 Fred Simons Your Local Agent

325 AVENUE C SW WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 FSIMONS@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/fsimons Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.

4980 CABANA CT.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021.............$84,000

415 LAKE ELOISE POINTE BLVD........WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021..............$62,600

4980 CABANA CT.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021.............$118,000

4346 CHERRYWOOD ST..................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021..............$75,900

5025 TRUMAN LN.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............. $64,000

4420 BURLINGTON DR....................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021............$322,500

5025 TRUMAN LN.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............. $82,000

720 MCCOY ST..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021........... $354,800

5305 TILLERY RD......................................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021........... $248,000

724 MCCOY ST..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021........... $354,800

1036 STATION ST.......................................LAKELAND............5/10/2021.............$172,000

728 MCCOY ST..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021........... $354,800

1736 WILSHIRE CT.....................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021........... $370,000

838 CHANNING ST...........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021........... $354,800

1854 PINNACLE DR....................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021...........$300,000

842 CHANNING ST............................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021........... $354,800

2641 HIGH RIDGE DR................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021........... $288,500

846 CHANNING ST...........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021........... $354,800

2663 BROOKSIDE BLUFF LOOP...............LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021........... $385,000

900 AVENUE Z..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021..............$70,000

3931 TALON CREST DR.............................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............ $314,900

1001 LAKE CANNON DR....................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021............ $158,000

4416 HEDGE DR........................................LAKELAND............. 5/2/2021............ $159,000

120 AVENUE S....................................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021............ $135,000

4622 LITTLE GROVE LN............................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $423,000

1550 11TH ST B6..................................WINTER HAVEN............5/10/2021..............$75,000

4910 ELAM RD...........................................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021..............$55,000

268 ARBUTHNOT ST........................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021.............$237,200

5080 HANOVER LN..................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021........... $455,000

2835 COUNTRY CLUB RD................WINTER HAVEN.............5/6/2021.............$173,900

5125 LAKE MIRIAM CIR..............................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021...........$300,000

325 MEADOWBROOK BLVD............WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021.............$227,300

5152 CIMARRON DR..................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............ $139,000

3683 JULIUS ESTATES BLVD.............WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021............ $193,600

5965 PIER PLACE DR.................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$575,000

3831 AVENUE J...................................WINTER HAVEN.............5/6/2021............$148,000

6146 MISSION DR......................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021........... $260,000

4083 LAKE MARIANNA DR..............WINTER HAVEN.............5/6/2021............$102,000

6320 BUTTERNUT DR..............................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............$276,000

513 LAKESIDE RANCH WAY..............WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021............. $64,900

6428 GARDNER DR...................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$265,400

570 SANCTUARY BLVD.....................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021............. $64,000

6527 EMERALD WOODS LN.....................LAKELAND............. 5/5/2021............$607,400

6367 LOLLY BAY LOOP.....................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021.............$110,000

6572 POLLY LN..........................................LAKELAND.............5/6/2021............$253,000

6397 LOLLY BAY LOOP.....................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021.............$129,900

6713 BENTRIDGE DR.................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021..............$62,600

832 CAMBRIDGE DR.........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021............$259,000

6778 BENTRIDGE DR................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021..............$89,500

919 NE AVENUE F...............................WINTER HAVEN.............5/6/2021............$106,000

6802 BENTRIDGE DR................................LAKELAND............. 5/4/2021..............$89,500

1051 CORSO DR.................................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021............ $257,800

7220 MILLBROOK OAKS DR.....................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............$372,500

121 HAWTHORNE RD.........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021............ $195,000

905 BROOKWOOD DR.............................LAKELAND..............5/7/2021............ $272,500

212 GOLF AIRE BLVD.........................WINTER HAVEN.............5/6/2021........... $245,000

917 JENSEN AVE.........................................LAKELAND............. 5/3/2021............. $120,100

280 SANTA ROSA DR........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021........... $305,000

WINTER HAVEN

302 OVERLOOK DR..........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021............ $471,800

103 25TH ST #A..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021............ $165,000

369 FISH HAWK DR...........................WINTER HAVEN............5/10/2021...........$200,000

104 COVINGTON CV.........................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021..............$62,000

6037 PEBBLE BEACH BLVD...............WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021............ $241,000

239 TEMPLE CIR................................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021.............. $111,000

644 WAKULLA DR............................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/3/2021............$292,000

26 OAKWOOD RD.............................WINTER HAVEN..............5/7/2021........... $350,000

9705 LAKE BESS RD LOT 244...........WINTER HAVEN............. 5/4/2021............. $50,000

272 KINGS POND AVE.......................WINTER HAVEN..............5/1/2021.............$176,900

9705 LAKE BESS RD LOT 834...........WINTER HAVEN.............5/6/2021..............$89,900

353 CORSO LOOP.............................WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021........... $254,000

333 LAKE HOWARD DR APT 313A....WINTER HAVEN............. 5/5/2021.............$107,000

Discover the top FHA purchase lender in Florida!

CALL NOW! Purchasing A Home Made Simple By PRMG! havenmagazines.com

Alexandra Rojas Loan Oﬃcer | NMLS # 1532721

863-279-5069 

JRojas@PRMG.NET

ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE Serving those in our care with respect while providing a supportive and enriching lifestyle • Restaurant Style Dining • Activities • Transportation

• Housekeeping • Emergency Response System • 24-hour Access To Trained & Friendly Staff

PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL TOUR Haines City 863.968.7851

301 Peninsular Drive,Haines City svannahcourthainescity.com Assisted Living Facility License #9382 2019

Best of WINNER

havenmagazines.com

Bartow 863.578.8503

290 Idlewood Avenue, Bartow savannahcourtbartow.com Assisted Living Facility License #9888

SIGNATURE COMMUNITIES OF SENIOR LIVING MANAGEMENT CORP 74

Lake Wales 863.679.8246

12 E. Grove Ave., Lake Wales savannahcourtlakwwales.com Assisted Living Facility License #9383

#kindachill

havenmagazines.com

#kindachill

Just Right FINANCING TM

Carden

880012

Quantities may be limited.

1350 N Broadway (US 98) BARTOW 863-533-1611

1515 Highway 17 N EAGLE LAKE 863-294-7749

1399 6th St NW WINTER HAVEN 863-251-2039

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR OVER 45 YEARS!

HAVEN July 2021

Articles inside

HONEYCOMB BREAD BAKERS

CHECK ME OUT

DANIEL PEPIN

ONE SEARCH FOR ALL

TOP 10

LOCAL NEWS