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Our Team Of Providers (as of 6/15/20)
Cardiology Bhatia, Karan K., MD Mustafa, Muhammad, MD Gynecology (cont.) Vigoreaux, Jose R., MD Salamon, Eva J., MD Willard, E.H., MD Valadez, Jenifer, APRN Cortes-Meyer, Lissette, APRN Hospitalist Endocrinology & Diabetes Carlucci, Joseph A., MD Miller, Christopher, MD Muniz, Elvin, MD Nair, Ganesh, MD Paul, Nisha, MD Skukowski, Bobbie, APRN Shamim, Talha, MD Tate, William, DO Family Medicine Bridges, Candy, APRN Arana, Flavio R., MD Miller, Emily, APRN Arango, Cecilia, MD Reedy, Clayton, APRN Koilpillai, Robinson, MD Magno, Alexander S., MD Internal Medicine Torres, Eduardo, MD Doval, Armando, MD Appratto, Yonny, APRN Farrell, Cathy, MD Carbone, Carrie, APRN Lakhani, Sonali, MD Cassady, Stephanie, APRN Lopez, Christopher, MD Cox, Jennifer, APRN Prieto, Jose, DO Hughes, Jessica, APRN Reyes, Pamela, MD Patterson, Lauren, APRN Rivera, Juan R., MD Widner, Linda G., APRN Rivera-Bonilla, Maria, MD Torres, Jorge, MD General Surgery Aleman, Javier, APRN & Surgical Oncology Bailey, Charla, APRN Gambaro, Esteban, MD Bridges, Stephanie, APRN Thomas, Robert S., MD Garcia, Kristina, APRN Ray, Brandi, APRN Gynecology Saucedo, Gerardo, APRN Gabriel, Carlos I., MD Villalobos, Amelia APRN Kenaan, Jana, MD
Main Campus 500 E. Central Ave. Winter Haven Marc Feldman, DPM / Podiatry & Foot Surgery
Nephrology Hou, Jeffrey Peng, MD Ibrahim, Sherif I, MD McClendon, Michele L., DO Lawrence, Laurel, APRN White, Samantha, APRN Neurology Rajguru, Shailesh, DO Nurse Practitioners *** Listed by specialty Oncology & Hematology Hlalah, O. Abu, MD Rampersad, Michelle, APRN Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Lerner, Robert K., MD Morin, Paul M., MD Lewis, Jami, APRN Moore, Vicki C., APRN Pain Medicine (Interventional) Eldeeb, Mohammad A., MD Madrid, Amber, APRN Peterson, Julie, APRN
Pediatrics Nguyen, Kenny, MD Davis-Reyes, Toi, APRN Harte, Brian, APRN Jones, Lorrie, APRN Ortiz, C. “Brook”, APRN Physical Therapy Balogh, Jeremy S., DPT Cole, Lenny, DPT Ha, Nam, DPT
Thoracic Surgery Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Cayson, Barry, APRN Rodriguez, Christopher, PA Urgent Care Marzola, Stephanie, MD Barrow, Michelle, PA Davidson, KC, APRN Davis, Mary, APRN Reed, Deloris, APRN Ritter, Cynthia, APRN
Urology & Urologic Surgery Lee, Kevin, MD Podiatry & Foot Surgery Romero, Claudio, MD Englert, Christopher, DPM Pickard, Martha, APRN Schley, Brittany, PA Feldman, Marc, DPM Physician Assistant *** Listed by specialty
Pulmonology Romeu-Velez, Jesse, MD Rheumatology Pancorbo, Roberto, MD Sleep Medicine Romeu-Velez, Jesse, MD
Vascular Surgery Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Cayson, Barry, APRN Rodriguez, Christopher, PA Wound Care Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Cayson, Barry, APRN Rodriguez, Christopher, PA
Warner, Erin “Ashley”, APRN
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FAMILY MEDICINE Ronald A. Ford, M.D. Richard K. LaCalamito, D.O. David Lipschitz, D.O. Mary R. De Sena, M.D. Garrison F. Christian, M.D. Tristan M. Harrison, M.D. Willie K. Jones, M.D. Laura Ann Mackley, PA-C Michele L. Murphy, APRN-C Roxanna Ford, APRN-C Lara Devero-Williams, APRN-C
CARDIOLOGY-INTERVENTIONAL Rakesh Choubey, M.D.
GYNECOLOGY J. Anthony Mancini, M.D.
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY William A. Cooper, D.O.
COLON & RECTAL SURGERY Richard J. Honer, M.D. Crystal E. Ingle, APRN-C
ENDOCRINOLOGY Zahily Fals, M.D. Dorothea Thompson, APRN-C
INTERVENTIONAL SPINE/ SPORTS MEDICINE Lucien J. Parrillo, M.D. Carey E. Coco, APRN-C
DERMATOLOGY Roya Ghorsriz, D.O.
HOSPITALIST Aleixo M. Viegas, M.D.
GASTROENTEROLOGY Mark W. Shabla, M.D.
INTERNAL MEDICINE Alan G. Gasner, M.D. Elizabeth H. Griffin, M.D. Kyle M. Pochcial, M.D. Michael L. Keown, M.D. Roxanna Ford, APRN-C
GENERAL & BILIARY SURGERY Vriti Advani, M.D. Crystal E. Ingle, APRN-C
NEPHROLOGY Haldane W. Porteous, M.D., MSC, SCH, FACP Lara Devero-Williams, APRN-C OBSTETRICS -GYNECOLOGY Lisa M. Jardine, M.D. Maria Martino, M.D.
GENERAL, BREAST & VASCULAR SURGERY W. P. Aronski, M.D.
OPHTHALMOLOGY OPHTHALMIC PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY ADULT John J. McGetrick, M.D. GENERAL & VASCULAR SURGERY & PEDIATRIC David K. Speyerer, M.D. Maria J. Pochcial, M.D. OPHTHALMOLOGY Crystal E. Ingle, APRN-C Lorraine S. Simonds, M.D. CARDIOLOGY Randall B. Kramer, M.D.
PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Richard F. Radocha, M.D. PODIATRY Jorge L. Dopico, D.P.M. James E. Koon, D.P.M. PULMONOLOGY & SLEEP MEDICINE Jose I. Martinez-Salas, M.D. RHEUMATOLOGY Maurice F. McCarthy, Jr., M.D. Ada Lopez-Mendez, M.D. WALK-IN CLINIC Ashley Penaloza, APRN-C Tiffney Martin, APRN-C Molly Fox, APRN-C
635 First Street, North, Winter Haven • (863) 294-0670 havenmagazines.com
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2019
Best of WINNER
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FOOD TRUCKS WEDNESDAY – SUNDAY
TRY SOMETHING NEW
Winter Haven’s Craft Beer Destination
40 Self Pour Taps
Pour as much or as little as you would like Mon & Tues Closed
Wed & Thurs 4pm-10om
Fri 4pm-11pm
Sat Noon-11pm
Sun Noon-7pm
LIVE MUSIC every Saturday night & growlers (32oz or 64oz) still available during business hours. For Details and Events, Check Us Out at uniontaproom 245 W Central Ave Suite 102, Winter Haven // (863) 268-4921 // uniontaproomwh.com
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Letter From the Editor Happy 4th of July! This month is all about “One Tank Trips.” That’s any trip you can take on one tank of gas which we determined is 300 miles or less. Spend the day exploring a new place, with the safety of yourself and those around you in mind. If you don’t already wear a mask, check ahead of time to see if the places you’re visiting require one. Be prepared. As always, support the small businesses and restaurants whenever possible. There’s nothing more fun than a road trip adventure with someone you love, have fun out there! Let us know how your trips went. Thank you to the experts at Visit Central Florida for giving us a selection of 5 “road trips” that are a little closer to home. They’re all in Polk County for those of us not ready to jump on the road for a longer trip. I want to introduce a new contributing writer for us, Lisbeth Pacheco. Lisbeth is the owner of Ethos Coffee Roasters. You’ve probably had her coffee at local coffee shops around town. This month she teaches us how to make the perfect cold brew for your road trip. I’m excited to have Lisbeth writing for us! In the spirit of taking a road trip, we talk with the chef & owners of the food truck, Not Your Mama’s Pancakes. We also visit with a super special lady named Maria who has been crocheting for almost 80 years. We talk with Salt Strong, a local company helping you become the best fisherman or fisherwoman possible. You’ll also meet the Baz Family. They’ve probably worked on your car at one point, but this family has been around for generations and is so much more than an auto repair shop.
For a discreet, comfortable and quick way to achieve the straight smile of your dreams, book your appointment with Forni Dental and choose Invisalign clear aligners.
Check out our #kindachill section and see if you know anyone! Add the hashtag to your next IG or FB post and you might find it in the next issue of Haven. We didn’t include a calendar of events yet, however, we do have a Top Ten list. Please be safe. If you’re sick or at high risk, don’t go out and continue to social distance yourself. Have a great July! Amy Sexson Editor/Partner Haven Magazine amy@destroyermedia.com
Your Smile is Our Work of Art (863) 676-6021 701 State Rd. 60 East • Lake Wales ForniDental.com 9
J U LY
CONTENTS
FEATURES PROFILES.........................................................................42 FEATURE STORY...........................................................14 RESTAURANT................................................................56
9.......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 12............................................................... TOP 10 TO DO 60..................................................................... COCKTAIL 65..........................................SOLD HOMES LISTINGS 75................................................................ #KINDACHILL
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JULY VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 Publisher Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com Editor Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com Managing Editor Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com Photographer Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com Art & Production Manager Steven Maynard steven@destroyermedia.com Social Media Manager Brooke Allen brooke@destroyermedia.com Ad Director Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com Advertising Consultant Susan Mayrant susan@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 11
POLK TOP 10 LIVE MUSIC Swan Brewing is back to regular hours with some of the best food trucks and musicians around. Check their FB page @swanbrewingco for the schedule of trucks and live music. As the summer goes on, expect to see more events listed and new beers on tap.
GRB’S ROOTS RUN CLUB Grove Roots Brewing is hosting every Thursday at 6pm! Offering 2 routes, 1.5 miles or 3 miles around Downtown Winter Haven. Roots Run Club is the perfect after-work active social. Want some swag? $20 for a Roots Run Club shirt gets you a discount on beer for the day of the run! Groveroots.com
TRIVIA Weekly live trivia event at Craft + Kitchen hosted by Triviosity Live Events. Every Thursday from 7-9pm. 3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland. Prizes to the Top 3 teams. Craft + Kitchen is Florida’s first independent beer bottle shop offering 300+ beers. Lunch & dinner is served 7 days a week. cklakeland.com
POUR YOUR OWN Visit Union Taproom in Winter Haven for Polk County’s first “pour your own beer” experience. Over 40 selections of craft beer, wine & ciders on tap. Live music and food trucks every weekend. Check their FB page @uniontaproom for up to date food & music info.
OPEN MIC NIGHT July 6, 6-9pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down. Beginners, veteran performers or singer-songwriters can perform up to 3 acoustic songs. All ages welcome, seating is limited, temperatures will be taken at the door, social distancing will be enforced, and masks are greatly appreciated. gpderrydown.com
THE RESILIENT GARDENER July 11, 2-3 pm. Join Bok Tower Garden Educators for an online gardening class for “Right Plant Right Place.” The class has been planned and created for Central Florida gardeners of all skill levels. Free/members or $10/ non-members. 863-676-1408 Must register in advance at boktowergardens.org
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ART STUDIO Get crafty and creative at Explorations V Children’s Museum. Free for members and included with general admission. No pre-registration required. Every Friday at 109 N Kentucky Ave. from 10-30-11:30am. (863) 687-3869
MACRAME WORKSHOP July 18 6pm at Unfiltered in Bartow. Learn to make a plant hanger in this beginner-level class. No prior experience is needed. Class fees include instruction, supplies and refreshments. Ages 14 and older are welcome to join. Class size is 6 people. To reserve a spot, visit Unfiltered, 160 Broadway Ave. (813) 481-1234 $45
FARMERS MARKET Shop local vendors at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market every Saturday from 8am-1pm throughout July, rain or shine. Visit the FB page @FarmersCurbMarket for the latest info. The market is in downtown Lakeland on N Kentucky Ave near Munn Park.
DOWNTOWN DATE NIGHT July 24, 5-8:30pm in downtown Lakeland. Enjoy downtown after dark with stores open late, live music, giveaways and more! Visit downtownlkld.com for the latest info. Complete your night at a local restaurant, call ahead to reserve.
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Can’t Make It To This Year’s Summer Camp? Visit lakewalesartscouncil.org and sign up for our newsletter to be notified when you can apply for our fall art camp. This years summer art camp brought to you by the Lake Wales Arts Council, Jahna Foundation, Ruth Marchione Foundation, Mountain Lake Community Service, The Lake Wales Dental Group & GiveWell Community Foundation
Lake Wales Arts Center
1099 SR 60 E LAKE WALES, FL 33853 ( 8 6 3 ) 6 7 6 - 8 4 2 6 I L a keWa l e s A r t s C o u n c i l . o r g 13
the great one tank trip
“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” Jack Kerouac, On the Road
Road trips are an affordable, totally customizable, and super fun way to take a quick vacay with the family. With many people opposed to sitting in the close quarters of an airplane, a minimal-contact road trip is just the ticket. Not to mention, roadtrippers will benefit from the lowest gas prices in 17 years, according to AAA. Now might be the perfect time to take a quick trip and get out of the house. We’ve compiled a list of 20 excellent One Tank Trips here in Central Florida that are easily made on one tank of gas. We’re lucky to live in Polk County because we’re in the middle of everything! There’s a great place to visit in literally every direction. The CDC advises people not to travel if they’re sick, are in a higher-risk group for COVID, or live with someone who is. As social distancing guidelines remain in place, travelers may be required to wear a face mask when they stop for gas, groceries or other supplies. Hotels and restaurants are not filling to capacity, please reserve ahead of time or bring your own food. Plan ahead & be safe out there! havenmagazines.com
WORDS: Tara Crutchfield & Amy Sexson 14
Anna Maria Island
Distance from Polk County – 81 miles
A barrier island on Florida’s shimmering Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island is a popular beach destination for much of Central Florida. It has an island life vibe and a favorable selection of public beaches on which to sun and swim. Popular beaches include Manatee Public Beach, Anna Maria Public Beach, Bean Point Beach, Coquina Beach, and Bayfront Park. If a beach day is what you’re after, pack a cooler, a towel, SPF and you’ll be good – or take out the boat (or rent one) for saltwater fishing and sealife spotting. A weekend stay in one of the many cheery, beachy-hued condos on the island is preferable to get in all that AMI has to offer. Take the Island Trolly up and down all 7 miles of the island for free. Something to do, eat, or buy will be within walking distance of one of the trolly’s 80 stops. Expect a getaway packed with swimming, seafood, and shopping. Bridge Street is one of the island’s hot shopping spots lined with boutiques and bistros. Make your way down the historic Bridge Street Pier to Anna Maria Oyster Bar (AMOB on the Pier) where you can enjoy oysters and other seafood fare as you watch the shades of orange and pink sun sink beneath the drink. If you haven’t yet dropped from said shopping, roam Pine Avenue for more craft shops, food, and the like. Another must-dine Anna Maria pier restaurant is a beach-casual spot on the far north end of the island, Rod and Reel Pier. Not only does this oft called “hidden
gem” serve Gulf favorites, but guests can also bring a fishing pole and cast from the restaurant’s dock and walkways for a small fee. Additional views and vendors can be found each week on Sunday and Wednesday from 10 am to 4 pm (check their Facebook, @BeachMarketAtCoquinaBeach for updates on COVID closures) at the Beach Market at Coquina Beach. Stroll the market for “fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local artists, scarves, apparel, pottery, purses, health and beauty items, music and more,” according to their Facebook page. If you’re imbibing during your trip, the island has plenty to choose from. For a Hurricane that won’t make you panicbuy supplies and Sex on the Beach that won’t get you arrested (maybe), stop into Hurricane Hank’s for a beer-battered fish sandwich and tropical cocktails. A trendy stop to get your medicine is The Doctor’s Office, a craft bar located in a real former doctor’s office. The good doc offers craft cocktails, beer, wine, and small plates to sober up. I believe the saying goes, “A stiff drink a day keeps the doctor away.” This is just scratching the surface of the adult beverage offerings on the island. After you’ve dumped the sand from your swimsuit and assessed the sunburn you swore you wouldn’t get, don’t forget to get your photo in the clink at the old Anna Maria City Jail. This is a frequented photoop on the island with “no roof, no doors, no windows, no bars, no guests for yrs and 15 yrs.”
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2019
Best of WINNER
Clearwater is a great visit for more reasons than one – the powder sugar sands of Clearwater Beach, shelling at Honeymoon Island State Park, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, shopping at the Pelican Walk Plaza. But the food scene is really where it’s at! First on the brunch docket is Clear Sky Beachside Cafe. They technically call it breakfast with “an upscale twist,” not brunch. Nonetheless, we’re talking bennies and Bloody Marys within view of the cobalt Gulf. This elevated breakfast menu also includes the likes of quiche, Belgian-style waffles, beignets and berries, bellinis, and mimosas – pinkies and bottoms up! For seafood and hush puppies to rave about according to one top-secret source (his name’s Steven), check out Crabby’s Dockside. For unmatched sunset views and drinks, Jimmy’s On The Edge is it. Another open-air Clearwater bar, known for dreamy views and their famous super grouper sandwich, check out Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill. Soak in the coastal vibe, play a little pool, and sip on a Dirty Banana or Frenchy’s Famous Frozen Rum Runner (also a Steven two thumbs up recommendation). Bonus tip: retro digs are only a ten-minute walk away from the bar – a trés chic 60s throwback boutique motel, Frenchy’s Oasis Motel.
Brunch & Beach Views in Clearwater
Distance from Polk County – 83 Miles
A place as notable as Steinhatchee for scalloping in the Sunshine State is Crystal River. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website for information on the scalloping season and limits for the area at myfwc.com. Another reason for visiting Crystal River is the potential for sea cow spotting. In the colder months of the year, mid-November through late March, manatees flock to the warmth of the springs. Three Sisters Springs, a part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge has a boardwalk with viewing platforms for ample view of its turquoise waters and manatees that gather there. For a full list of admission prices to Three Sisters Springs which differs by age and time of year, visit www.threesistersspringsvisitor.org. To get chummy with these sea creatures, book a swim or snorkel with one of the many close-encounter tours in the area. Maybe you’ll get a manatee hug or flipper-five!
Manatee Watch at Crystal River Distance from Polk County – 125 Miles
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Executive Suites Now Available
We are almost complete with renovating the 2nd floor! There will be 10 private offices ranging from 125 SF to 365 SF. Leases will be “all-inclusive� and the rent will include all utilities, maintenance, and even gig speed internet! The office suite tenants will have access to a conference room downstairs, private mail boxes, and a kitchen/break area. Contact - Megan Young for details 863-354-5017 // myoung@sixtenllc.com havenmagazines.com
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De Leon Springs State Park & The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Distance from Polk County – 112 miles Have you ever been sitting at a restaurant and thought, ‘I sure wish I could make some fluffy pancakes at this very moment, at this very table... And after that, I want to go camping and take a boat tour and go swimming and maybe birdwatching,’? Have we got the place for you! According to floridastateparks.org, De Leon Springs was once called Acuera or “Healing Waters” by the Native American Mayaca who lived on the land for at least 6,000 years. The website also notes, “The spring run was once used to turn a sugar cane mill followed by a grist mill to turn corn into flour during the Civil War.” The Old Spanish Sugar Mill rests beside the spring, another attractant to the park. “Originally constructed in the 1830s to crush sugar cane utilizing the power of the 16 – 18 million gallons of water flowing from the spring daily, the mill features a 30-foot undershot waterwheel. The mill was rebuilt around 1900. A chimney, which remains on the site, was part of the original sugar mill operation…,” according to oldspanishsugarmill.com. After being destroyed twice, once during the Second Seminole War and then again during the Civil War, the mill was saved by fifth-generation grist miller, Peter Schwarze in 1961 from a final scheduled deconstruction. He leased and restored the mill, “once again grinding flour in the mill building,” and eventually started The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill and Griddle House which is still family-operated to this day. The experience is a very hands-on breakfast with guests served two types of the Mill’s homemade batter, “one containing stone-ground corn, wheat, rye,
whole wheat, and buckwheat flours and the other made from unbleached white flour,” according to their website. Guests are the masters of their breakfast destiny as they flip their flapjacks tableside with the electric griddle at the center of the table. The restaurant does have other breakfast and lunch offerings that aren’t made tableside. Today the spring is part of the Florida State Park system and is well-known and loved for its camping, swimming, birding, hiking, and other aquatic activities from boat tours to scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddling. The shimmering waters of the spring are perfect for a dip at a constant 72 degrees. The roughly 500 feet circumference of the swimming hole is surrounded by grassy areas, tables and grills (first come, first serve), as well as four picnic pavilions available for rent. Once you’ve had your fill of fluffy pancakes and cooled off in the spring, hop aboard the M/V Acuera with Captain Frank for the Eco/ Heritage Boat Tour. The 50-minute tours depart four times daily and explore De Leon Springs State Park and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. According to the park’s website, “As we explore nature, we will also talk about the area’s 6,000 years of history and some myths. Was Ponce de Leon really here? Whatever your interest, you are sure to enjoy your time with us.” Day adventurers can enjoy the park from 8 am - sunset, 365 days a year with a fee of $6 per vehicle to enter. For overnight campers, cabin and campsite reservations 19 can be made from one day to 11 months.
Our menu is handcrafted and prepared to order – made with the freshest ingredients. Chef Blake Jones
July Entertainment July 4th Celebration Join us July 2-5 for live music, comedy shows and DJ dance parties.
Balmoral Rocks! Weekend Music Festival
Thursday, July 23 to Sunday, July 26 Thursday: The Line Up Friday: Dan Signor Saturday: Foley Burns & Aggie Road Sunday: Polk County Porch Pickers
Weekly Entertainment Monday: Tuesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:
Bingo Trivia The Line Up Live Music Live Music DJ Dance Party
863-588-3097 | balmoralbarandgrill.com
124 Kenny Blvd., Haines City, Florida 33844 havenmagazines.com
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Hey, your best friend deserves a trip this summer too – life can be ruff when you’re stuck at home all day. Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park southwest of St. Pete has 4.4 out of 5 dog bones on bringfido.com, so you know it’s legit. Fort De Soto Park itself is over 1,100 acres spanning five interconnected keys. Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park is actually the only place in the park where dogs are allowed on the beach and not required to wear a leash so you and Fluffy can frolic freely. Leashed pets are welcome anywhere in the park other than public beaches, piers, and buildings. Don’t forget to bring plenty of fresh drinking water for your bark buddy beach day! Here’s a dog/ human beach activity checklist: 1. Play – frisbee, fetch, swimming, digging, you know the deal 2. Meet new friends, say hello – sniff all the butts (the last part is exclusively for dogs only) 3. Slow-motion Baywatch run together (buy dog sunglasses for full effect) 4. Instagram photo montage (use #lkldhaven and #kindachill and you might make it in the next issue!) 5. Wash up at the park’s dog wash station and hang your heads out the window all the way home
Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park
We hope you and your pet babe have a great day of sand, sun, barks, and belly rubs!
Distance from Polk County – 93 Miles
Are you brave enough to enter the Devil’s Den? It’s not as dramatic or evil as it sounds, promise. Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring located in Levy County, is a subterranean spring within a dry cave. The year-round 72 degree waters plunge to a maximum depth of 54 feet covering 120 feet of surface diameter. According to devilsden.com, the cave “has been home to many extinct animal fossils dating back to the Pleistocene Age, which are on display at The University of Florida’s Museum of Natural History.” For decades, the spring has attracted divers and snorkelers from near and far. The privately-owned scuba diving training center offers scuba diving 7 days a week. Open Water Certification or above and a dive “buddy” are required for admission. Admission is $38 per diver and $8 for air-fills with full and individual equipment rentals available. Night dives are available by reservation. If diving isn’t your thing, perhaps you’ll enjoy snorkeling which does not require any certifications to participate. Children under 6 are not permitted access to Devil’s Den and due to COVID-19, parties must make reservations to snorkel. Admission prices are $15 per person Monday through Friday and $22 per person on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. These prices do not include a mask, snorkel, and fins that are required for admission. But have no fear if you leave yours at home, you can rent them there. Make a weekend out of it at the tent campgrounds, R.V. park, or cabins available for rent. Downtown Williston is less than ten minutes from the Prehistoric Spring. You can grab a bite at The Ivy House Restaurant, BubbaQue’s BBQ, Sister’s Place, and more local haunts.
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring Distance from Polk County – 138 Miles
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Once you’ve taken a dip at the Devil’s Den, check out their website for a list of other springs as close as two miles away like Blue Grotto to the south, or Silver Springs 30 minutes to the east which offers glass-bottom boat tours!
HELP SUPPORT PATIENTS
Fighting the Coronavirus
CAN I DONATE HOMEMADE FACE MASKS AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)? YES! To help protect Winter Haven Hospital & Winter Haven Women's Hospital patients, team members, and medical staff you may donate homemade face masks. All donations of commercial PPE are welcomed and encouraged.
For a full list of PPE needs visit whhfoundation.org
DONATE BLOOD Blood donations are greatly needed to ensure we maintain a healthy blood supply. Donating blood is considered an essential activity, safe, and highly encouraged by the FDA at this time. Please consider donating now at the WHH Community Blood Center.
To donate, call 863-297-1840.
THE WINTER HAVEN HOSPITAL FOUNDATION CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE FUND The Winter Haven Hospital Foundation has established the Coronavirus Response Fund to provide philanthropic support for the most current and urgent needs of WHH and WHWH patients.
SHARE A MESSAGE OF SUPPORT Send a thank you note or encouraging message to lift the spirits of our Physicians and Team Members who are working tirelessly around the clock to provide care to our patients.
To share a message of support, visit whhfoundation.org.
To donate or see ways you or your organization can help, visit whhfoundation.org or e-mail whhfoundation@baycare.org havenmagazines.com
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West Palm Beach
Distance from Polk county – 155 Miles
Foodies and culture cognoscente will love this South Florida slice of paradise. This is a coastal city dripping in fine cuisine, arts, and culture (oh, and shopping). Described as a “foodie paradise,” West Palm has an offering of eclectic eats. Enjoy Asian small plates, gyoza tacos, dim sum, noodle dishes (duh), and craft cocktails at Kapow! Noodle Bar. Slurp your noodles amidst their sidewalk seating to take in the pulse of West Palm. For some of the best pho and other Vietnamese street food, check out Inch & Ounces – and snap an Instagram photo with their “Crazy Pho You” neon sign in the background for extra social media cred. Buccan gives a fresh perspective on an upscale casual dining experience. The dining space is unbuttoned, juxtaposed with exceptional seasonal small plates and craft drinks. Other recommendations include Eccho for their “mouthwatering” Peking Duck and sushi as well as the Avocado Grill. E. R. Bradley’s Saloon, an open-air waterfront favorite of locals and visitors, boasts beachy cocktails and bites including Baja local fish tacos and Aloha classic cocktails. Bring your credit card because the shopping at Rosemary Square is killer. Rosemary Square has a stunning water pavilion fixture to admire from a distance or dance in if you please. Stop and make a wish at The Wishing Tree while on your shopping excursion. At night, the 26-foottall installment flaunts a breathtaking display of 100,000 full-color-spectrum LED lights across its 10,000 leaves. “The lighting algorithm is inspired by the fluid
behavior of South Florida’s inherent weather systems,” according to www. rosemarysquarewpb.com. Another highend shopping experience can be had just over the Flagler Memorial Bridge in the botanical backdrop of Palm Beach’s The Royal Poinciana Plaza with 50 handselected brands to shop. Once your belly is full and your wallet hopefully not too empty, check out the city’s arts and culture offerings. The exhibition, George Cohen: Artist of the Chicago Avant-Garde is up now through September 6, 2020, at the Norton Museum of Art. Or you can snag tickets to a performance at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts downtown. Across the bridge to Palm Beach is the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, a 75-room Gilded Age estate and museum. If you’re more of an animal than arts person, head back into West Palm to the Palm Beach Zoo. Guests can admire over 190 species of animals – everything from tamarins to toucans, ocelots to otters, and koalas to Komodo dragons. Fun fact, the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society sponsors conservation efforts throughout the world. During your visit, you’ll likely notice the blue bikes around town. These are a part of the SkyBike Bike Share, a pay-as-you-go bike share available through the nextbike app. You can rent a bike to suit your needs from 30 minutes, the whole day, or even monthly if you’re planning an extended stay. The bike share is a great way to burn off all the calories from your West Palm foodie adventures!
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What would a Florida One Tank Trip list even be without rockets? You could say this trip is out of this world – the atmosphere is great. You will need to make space in your calendar to shuttle your kids here. Your galactic adventure to The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will dive into history and soar towards the future of space exploration with the many exhibits, historic spacecraft and memorabilia, IMAX theaters, and bus tours of the spaceport. Though there’s plenty of fun for adults, this is one trip that could inspire our smallest future astronauts and shuttle engineers. According to www.kennedyspacecenter. com, “Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is organized into Mission Zones — allowing you to weave your way through the U.S. Space Program in chronological order: Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, Shuttle and beyond!” During your visit, check out the Rocket Garden displaying gargantuan rockets from NASA’s Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. Walk the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, take a peek at the Hubble Space Telescope Theater, and captain a mission at the Astronaut Training Simulators.
Kennedy Space Center
If all that space exploration works up an appetite, land at the Orbit Cafe or Rocket Fuel Food Truck and moonwalk your way to get some Space Dots for dessert.
Distance from Polk County – 106 Miles
Little Gasparilla Island is an easy-paced coastal getaway. Fishing, lounging, swimming, and sunning should be at the top of your to-do list for this One Tank Trip. This barrier island is about two and a half hours southwest of us hugging the Gulf. There are no paved roads on Little Gasparilla which mean personal boat, rental, or water taxi are the only way to and from the mainland. Beach houses and island bungalows can be rented for your secluded coastal retreat. There are three choices of transportation around the island – walking, bicycle (if you bring yours across to the island), or golf carts available at Little Gasparilla Island Carts. There are no restaurants or grocery stores on LGI. Stock up and bring over your trips-worth of groceries when you take your boat or water taxi. Exploring the island, swimming, snorkeling, shelling, wildlife watching, boating, fishing, and stargazing are wellloved pastimes on LGI. If you’re looking for something else to pass the unhurried island time, search out Little Gasparilla’s hidden-away doorless, unattended lending library known as Hoot’s Library.
Little Gasparilla Island
Distance from Polk County – 102 Miles 25
If you are a local farmer, grower, specialty food vendor or maker, we would like to hear from you! Space is limited and we are looking to curate high-quality vendors that contribute to our foodfirst market experience. Our goal is to create a sense of community around food and farmers in downtown Winter Haven. There are no deeper roots in Central Florida when talking about citrus and agriculture, and we want to support them. These markets promote a healthy community built around supporting farmers and small businesses. Showing up at a farmers market is not just about vegetables and foods, it’s about community. If you have the right positive attitude, care about your community, and would like to be a vendor, we want to hear from you. Additional vendor information is available online at winterhavenfarmersmarket.com or email us at winterhavenmarket@gmail.com Our next Market Season begins September 12th and will be every Saturday from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. until May 2021.
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Antiquing & Minimalism in Mount Dora Distance from Polk County – 84 Miles
The best treasures await in Mount Dora. Antique shops, markets, and eclectic dining options abound in this sweet Central Florida town. A Mount Dora shopping must is Renninger’s Twin Markets. This sprawling collection of flea and farmers markets, and antiques and consignment shops sits on 117 acres of land. Up for the taking at Renninger’s Flea and Farmer’s Market every Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 4 pm are everything from clothing and crafts to fresh produce, meats, foliage, and beyond. Their Indoor Antique Center, open every Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and every Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, is a 40,000 square-foot air-conditioned antiquer’s haven with over 180 booths as well as a consignment area within. Following the same operation hours as the Antique Center are Renninger’s Street of Shops. This alley of antiques is an open-air trail of walkways through a series of small buildings. According to their website, renningers. net, their Mt. Dora Markets, “are also home to a large number of special events including antique fairs and extravaganzas, Cars and Guitars shows and swap meets, vintage garden shows, and much, much more.” There’s another Renninger’s on the east coast in Melbourne, FL, and two in Pennsylvania. Mount Dora’s The Village Antique Mall has more than 60 vendors in its 12,000-square-foot air-conditioned mall. In business for over 20 years, The Village Antique Mall is open seven days a week, offering “a huge and ever-
changing collection of antique furniture, jewelry, lighting, garden iron and decor, shabby chic, glassware, American art pottery, fine fishing collectibles, pocket watches, knives, books, Asian antiques, nostalgia, and retro items,” according to villageantiquemall.com. There is no shortage of dining options in Mount Dora. Treat yourself to traditional Cuban dishes at Copacabana Cuban Cafe or enjoy Fine Bone English China and High Tea at The Windsor Rose Restaurant and British Tea Room. A highly recommended gastro-go-to is the bookish dining hideaway The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge. Head to historic downtown to enjoy cocktails and around the world cuisine amidst cozy book-lined shelves or in the lush Goblin Market courtyard. Round out your trip in the spirit of “ingenuity, resourcefulness and innovation” at the Modernism Museum. Reflect on the functional figures of the museum’s collections Ettore Sottsass and Memphis (including pieces from the estate of David Bowie), Wendell Castle, Wharton Esherick, and George Nakashima. Finish at the Modernism Museum Shoppe for a minimalist memento or two. This may be a trip best saved for late Fall, November 28 from 4:30 to 9 pm, to be specific. With new-to-you treasures in tow, you’ll want to visit Donnelly Park and downtown Mount Dora for their 39th Annual Light Up Mount Dora which will boast over 2 million gleaming lights. 27
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Old Town
Distance from Polk County – 54 miles
Nostalgic music, classic cars, shops, and rides transplanted from the Main Street USA of yesterday, Old Town is the epitome of Florida roadside attraction kitsch. The park opened in 1986, located on US 192 in Kissimmee just up the road from what would later be Celebration. The park, open daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. has its share of rides like bumper cars, a classic carousel, an arcade, a haunted house, and a five-story roller coaster aptly named the Hurricane. The Ferris wheel will give you a birds-eye-view of Old Town, and all the surrounding neon rides, minigolf, larger than life tourist gift shops and magic that dot the 192 strip. Old Town’s weekly classic car shows draw crowds to their brick-lined streets to enjoy cruising classics and hot rods. Friday night is the Muscle Car Show followed up by Saturday night’s Classic Car Show.
Guests can grab a bite or beverage at the numerous restaurants, bars, and grab-and-go options within the park from burgers and sushi to pub fare and pizza. Top it off with some Sweet Dreams Ice Cream! Just about anything kitsch, camp, and beyond can be found in the row of shops up and down its main street – all things leather, sunglasses, Tiki, retro memorabilia, gemstones, crystals, magnets, soap and more – even beef jerky. It is an embarrassing right of passage to remember your trip with either a Caricatures by Characters or an old-timey portrait at Old Town Portrait Gallery. If you haven’t yet had your fill of fun, walk directly next door to Fun Spot for even more rides and attractions!
This One Tank Trip comes to us courtesy of someone we profiled this month – Joe Simonds with Salt Strong! “Weedon Island is a cool place for the whole family. It’s essentially a park that has both a kayak launch [...] and on the other side you have the boat launch,” said Joe. “It’s right in between Tampa and St. Pete so you have all the restaurants of St. Pete and everything in Tampa.” Joe says there are tons of fish to be caught at Weedon Island Preserve. According to www.weedonislandpreserve.org, “Located at the end of Weedon Drive NE, the fishing pier stands in nearly the same location as the historical bridge that once connected Weedon Island with neighboring Snell Island to the south.” In addition to fishing, boating, and kayaking, many nature enthusiasts enjoy the preserve for hiking its boardwalks and trails (which are handicap accessible) and bird watching. A 45-foot observation tower is situated along the west boardwalk loop overlooking the preserve with views of Tampa and St. Pete beyond.
Weedon Island Preserve
Joe-Tip-Pro-Tip: Go mid-week and try to get there earlier in the day, especially during the summertime. This once-hidden gem has gained popularity and can get a bit crowded.
Distance from Polk County – 74 Miles
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Luxury Living in Downtown
WINTER HAVEN 2 UNITS AVAILABLE! • 2,000 SF • 2 BEDROOM/2.5 BATH • ENCLOSED 2-CAR GARAGE
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RAINGARDEN APARTMENTS Architect Max Strang has won numerous awards for the design, and residents enjoy the security provided by the private courtyards and enclosed two car garages. Walkability is a primary amenity – You are a quick walk to GroveRoots, Thai Haven, Nutwood, Rick’s BBQ , Fire, Tsunami Sushi, Arabella’s and the other fine shops and restaurants downtown. 30
St. Augustine
Distance from Polk County – 167 Miles
With a history steeped in settlers, soldiers, and restless spirits, St. Augustine is the place in the Sunshine State for history appreciators, ghost aficionados, and seekers of everlasting youth. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon landed near what would eventually become St. Augustine in 1513. He claimed the newly discovered territory which he dubbed La Florida or “place of flowers” for the Spanish Crown. In September of 1565, Spanish admiral and explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded the city of St. Augustine, securing it’s spot as “the oldest permanent European settlement on the North American continent,” according to OldCity.com. Predating the establishment of the Jamestown, Virginia colony by 42 years, the city’s history has its share of siege, pirates, ghost stories, and magic. One such tale notes Ponce de Leon in search of an elusive Foundation of Youth. Those interested in the city’s history can visit Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archeological Park. The Park features numerous history-centric exhibits including blacksmithing, the Spanish Lookout Tower, and the Spring House feeding up water from the Florida aquifer and proverbial Fountain. Guests can even buy a keepsake bottle to fill with water from the Fountain of Youth for agelessness on-the-go. The bones of the Old City are as impressive as its spirit. Cobblestone streets dissect stunning Spanish architecture. Admirers of architecture will enjoy the Villa Zorayda Museum. This historic Gilded Age museum was built in 1883 for Franklin Webster Smith. According to the museum’s website, Smith, “replicated architectural details of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain.” Now patrons can take 45-60 minute self-guided audio tours of the grand space with the price of admission. Old City visitors can get another good dose of history and Spanish Renaissance architecture with historic tours of Flagler College.
Perhaps the most impressive structure in St. Augustine is the massive coquina fort and national monument, Castillo de San Marcos. Virtual tours are available online, and in-person visitors can pay admission to explore the grounds themselves. At certain times on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, spectators can watch soldier reenactors in period garb, fire cannons from the fort’s gundeck. An assortment of walking, trolley, and horse and carriage tours of the city are available. Some dive into the depths of St. Augustine’s history while others focus on Old City specters. Some of St. Augustine’s most notorious haunts are said to linger around St. Augustine’s Old Jail, Castillo de San Marcos, The Spanish Military Hospital, and the Casablanca Inn – just to name a few. Book a room at the Casablanca or the St. Francis Inn Bed & Breakfast for a potential night of frights… if you dare! (Other than the alleged hauntings they are charming inns, so you’ll have a nice stay regardless. Or there’s a Hilton if you’re a chicken.) If all that ghost hunting and history works up your appetite, the Old City has quite the selection of eateries. Fan favorites include Harry’s Seafood, the historic district’s Collage Restaurant along with The Floridian Restaurant, or the Columbia Restaurant founded in 1905 serving traditional Spanish fare. Connecting mainland St. Augustine to Anastasia Island is another historical landmark, the Bridge of Lions, completed in 1927. A few miles over the double-leaf bascule bridge on Anastasia Island, frothed Atlantic waves lap at the sunbleached brown sugar shores of St. Augustine Beach. Accommodations to stay on the island include a few chains and independent hotels, resorts, and inns. A selection of restaurants dots the island as well. Head back over the bridge into St. Augustine and take a stroll from the historic Old City Gate down St. George Street for some of the city’s best shopping! 31
Main Street Winter Haven
Free
Treasure Hunt July 27-31, 2020
Downtown Winter Haven
12 and Under print a Map to Participate at www.mainstreetwh.com during the week of july 27-31, print your treasure map from our website and search the participating businesses for the hidden lego minifigure. Once you've found it, your map will be stamped by the business owner. once you've collected all of the stamps, drop your map in the treasure box located in the winter haven library for a chance to win 4 legoland florida tickets! maps must be submitted by july 31 to be eligible for a prize! This year's event has been adapted to accommodate social distancing. please enjoy the event by following the cdc guidelines, face masks are encouraged. Lego, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure, and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. c 2020 The LEGO Group 32 havenmagazines.com
Scalloping in Steinhatchee
If sitting on the boat waiting for a bite isn’t the kind of fishing you like, grab your snorkel and flippers for some scalloping in Steinhatchee. One of the furthest trips on our list up in Big Bend territory, the seagrass beds of Steinhatchee are a treasure trove.
Distance from Polk County – 202 Miles
You’re in luck, the Gulf Coast scalloping season is in full swing from June 15 through Labor Day. You can captain your own boat, rent or charter from one of the many local companies like Sea Hag Marina and Florida Saltwater Flats Fishing Charters. Scalloping requires a valid Florida fishing license which can be purchased online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission or at a number of retail and sporting goods stores. From July 1 through Labor Day in Steinhatchee, the limit is 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1 pint of bay scallop meat with a maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell (½ gallon of bay scallop meat) per vessel, according to the FWC guidelines. After a day of pluckin’ and shuckin’, we’ve been told the perfect end to a scalloping excursion is to drink in the sunset overlooking the Steinhatchee River with the Gulf just beyond over a bite to eat at Roy’s Restaurant.
Vero Beach is an artsy and affluent community on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Shopping, dining, and mini-mansions line the breezy stretch of Atlantic road called Ocean Drive. An opulent Ocean Drive Beach Resort & Spa is Costa d’Este, owned by singer Gloria Estefan and her husband Emilio. This type of retreat leaves little need to flit the resort’s accommodations to spoil yourself with its ocean views, spa, beach access, high-end Cuban-fusion restaurant, and Cabana Bar. For an upscale dinner on the town, The Tides restaurant serving dishes from Conch Fritters to Cedar Planked Cold Water Salmon is just a fourminute walk from the resort. For a dose of greenery, education, and exhibitions, visit the 18-acre tropical hammock at the McKee Botanical Gardens. After roaming the botanical wonderlands at Mckee, visit the Vero Beach Museum of Art (VBMA) to admire the current exhibition. This summer is Avery to Warhol: Summer Salon at VBMA followed in the Fall by Christo and JeanneClaude.
Vero Beach
Distance from Polk County – 90 Miles 33
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Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida Distance from Polk County – 57 Miles Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida (or Wat Tampa as most people call it) is a Theravada Buddhist Temple for religious ceremonies, meditation, and Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) study. It was established in 1981 and moved to its current location in 1983. The Sunday Market started in 1987 with only two tables and has since grown into a food paradise for thousands of people every Sunday. Volunteers serve authentic Thai food prepared by Temple volunteers from 8:30 a.m. until about 1 p.m. with all proceeds going back to Wat Tampa. Most menu items are $6 or less, and they can include grilled pork or chicken on a stick (my favorite of the day), Pad Thai, various chicken curry dishes with vegetables, egg rolls, Guiteow (beef or pork noodle soup), Som Dom (Thai Papaya salad), and a wide variety of Thai desserts, Thai tea and Thai coffee made with sweet cream. You can get your food packed to-go, or stay and eat right there. Just steps away underneath the shade of mature trees are
plenty of picnic tables where you can sit and hang out. Each menu item is more than enough for one person, so there’s always plenty for later. This is a familyfriendly environment and a fun way to try all kinds of food without spending a lot of money. While you’re there, you can shop for Thai fruit trees, herbs, orchids, and hanging plants in the delightful outdoor Plant Market next to the picnic tables. Visitors can also go inside Wat Tampa if they’d like, to see inside of a Buddhist Temple. Please remove your shoes and leave them outside. The Sunday Market accepts CASH ONLY, so come prepared. The Wat Tampa is a very beautiful place with traditional Thai architecture and even a dragon or two. Restrooms are clean and easily accessible. My best advice is to arrive early and don’t let the lines fool you, they go quick. Check their website, wattampainenglish.com for updates on potential closures in response to COVID-19.
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Wekiwa Springs State Park
Distance from Polk County – 79 Miles
When was the last time you took a camping trip with friends? Wekiwa Springs State Park with its year-round 72-degree spring waters, boasts trails, canoes, kayaks, swimming, rafting, and more – the right addends for the sum of a memorable nature retreat. The park has 60 campsites with water, electrical hook-up, a fire ring with a grill, and a picnic table along with two restrooms with showers in the camp area. For a more sequestered experience, try the primitive campgrounds of Camp Cozy or Big Fork. Ten people are comfortably accommodated at each site with a fire pit, grill, benches, and picnic table. Otter Camp and Big Buck Camp on Rock Springs Run are only reachable by water with no vehicle access. If you don’t have your own, canoes and kayaks can be rented within the park. For these sites, reservations are required 60 days in advance. Camping arrangements for groups and equestrians are also available. For more info visit www.floridastateparks.org/parksand-trails/wekiwa-springs-state-park. 37
A Wekiwa Springs State Park primitive camping veteran described the campsite he stayed at as “overlooking the spring with a large tree you can walk along that overhangs the spring.” He and his group of friends rafted upstream to the site for a four-night trip. “Everything was brought in with us and taken out. Some of the best campfire cooking I have ever had. Each person took a turn cooking a meal,” he remembered. Their choice of activity included chilling out, swimming, and hiking. He said, “So many funny stories… all leading to the end with four people paddling in a semi-deflated raft, two paddling with their sandals, one with her hands and the other steering with a broken oar held loosely together with duct tape. Reaching ground with the canoe rental employees laughing their asses off.” Gather up your friends, best spooky stories, s’mores ingredients, and camping gear for a memorable trip to Wekiwa Springs that will doubtless leave you with some funny camping tales of your own.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Distance from Polk County – 102 Miles Over 70 years ago, on October 13, 1947, guests gathered in an 18-seat theater to watch the first Weeki Wachee mermaid show. In the decades following, the park has grown and continued its magical mermaid tradition. Weeki Wachee was named by the Seminoles, meaning “little spring” or “winding river.” A seemingly bottomless natural spring, its final depths have yet to be reached. One hundred and seventeen million gallons of 74-degree, crystal clear spring water flows every day from the spring into the Weeki Wachee River before making its way another 12 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. By the 1950s, Weeki Wachee was one of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions. In 1959, the American Broadcasting Company purchased Weeki Wachee and started promoting the mermaid shows across America. They updated the theater to sit 16-feet below the surface of the spring. The three-inch glass walls across the front allow everyone in the 400-seat theater to see the show. By
the 1960s there were 35 mermaids, eight shows a day, and a half-million visitors a year. Limestone makes up the side of the spring’s 100-feet wide basin where the mermaids swim. In 1982, Buccaneer Bay water park opened. The park is Florida’s only spring-fed water park. It is built around the springs with four water slides, three of which drop riders into the springs. In addition to a natural lazy river, Buccaneer Bay has a water play area and wading pool for children six and under called Lil’ Mates Caribbean Cove. Covered pavilions are available for picnicking as well as concessions for snacks and drinks and a seasonal restaurant. Kayak rentals, paddling adventures, and riverboat cruises are also available at the 538-acre Weeki Wachee Springs State Park which became a Florida State Park in 2008. Currently, the park and water park are closed for remodeling. Expect the mermaid shows and the park to reopen in the fall. Watch their FB page for updates @WeekiWacheeSprings 38
Sponges aren’t the only thing that will absorb your attention during this One Tank Trip. This coastal Gulf town drips with Greek heritage, culture, shopping, and food. Tarpon Springs has plenty of scenic parks, an aquarium, the LeepaRattner Museum of Art, and the stunning Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral – all the trappings of an interesting trip.
Tarpon Springs
Distance from Polk County –89 Miles
Most memorable perhaps are the Sponge Docks which are of historic industrial importance to the town – it is after all the Sponge Capital of the World. Boat tours and sponge diving demonstrations with divers in full vintage diving gear, complete with the hard-hat helmet are a great way to learn about the town’s former leading export. Pick up a memento at many of the local shops, some of which specialize in sponge wares like The Sponge Factory, The Sponge Exchange Shopping Village, and Spongeorama Sponge Factory. There is an abundance of shops in Tarpon Springs to buy handmade items like soap, jewelry, Greek gifts, and more (including sponges and sponge accessories, of course). Many of the most beloved spots to gorge on Greek goodies hem Dodecanese Boulevard. Hellas Restaurant and Bakery is one such eatery serving traditional Greek meals and authentic Greek pastries since 1970 (they’re known to have some of the best baklava in Tarpon Springs). Other highly regarded Greek cuisine worth a stop along Dodecanese Boulevard include Mykonos, Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Mr. Souvlaki, and Dimitri’s on the Water.
Fifteen hours and eleven minutes. That’s how long it takes to fly from Florida to Japan. It’s a trip I one day hope to make, but in the meantime, we Polk County residents (Polk-Countians?) are fortunate enough to have a Japanese museum and gardens celebrating their rich and elaborate history mere hours away in Delray Beach. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens underscore Japanese culture through exhibitions of Japanese art and artifacts. Roji-en, the name of their Japanese gardens means ‘Garden of the Drops of Dew.’ According to their website morikami.org, these gardens were, “designed to be a living exhibit as an extension of the museum. Its six distinct gardens are inspired by, but are not replicas of, significant gardens of Japan. Designer Hoichi Kurisu has created a unique garden conceived and constructed in the spirit of the masters.”
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens Distance from Polk County –174 Miles
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Their premier collection of bonsai is worth the visit alone. The Dr. Ron and Arlene Kessler Walk explore the bonsai exhibit and the art which inspired it including the technique of training and sculpting. Check their website for information on upcoming bonsai classes. Among the peaceful gardens is the Yamato-kan, the original museum which is the home to two permanent exhibits. Before you part, overlook the gardens while savoring Pan-Asian inspired fare at the museum’s Cornell Cafe.
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Want to take a road trip a little closer to home? We asked the experts at Visit Central Florida for some of their favorite places to go here in Polk County. From viewing a zebra from your car to sitting down to a proper tea, there are so many things to do in our own backyard.
LAVENDER N’ LACE / THE STABLE HOME DÉCOR & BARN ANTIQUES Featuring homemade food, unique signature teas and artisan wares for sale in the gift shop, Lavender N’ Lace Tearoom in the rolling hills of Lake Alfred offers visitors an escape from the usual. Offering an array of more adult fare from throughout Europe – think crepes, cottage pie and chicken curry – a trip to Lavender N’ Lace Tearoom is a trip to a simpler, slower time where a conversation over a meal was expected. Open from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday. For another antique shopping and dining experience, right around the corner, The Stable Home Décor encompasses several shops and a restaurant. This rural shopping mecca is a family affair, owned and operated by the Wales family for over 50 years. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Back Porch Restaurant then spend the afternoon hunting treasures in the shops. The Back Porch is known for its quaint picnic basket lunches that include soup, salad, sandwich, dessert and a drink, all for one low price. The charming dining room features hand-painted tabletops and large stained glass windows. Weather permitting, you can also dine on the wrap-around covered deck overlooking the nature pond. The Stable is a unique home decor and gift shop filled with wonderful accessories to suit a variety of tastes, including framed prints, lamps, mirrors, wreaths, floral arrangements, fragrances, jewelry and more. The Back Yard Garden Shop is a shaded, outdoor shopping venue, featuring seasonal plants and garden accessories such as birdhouses and fountains. The Seasons Gift Shop is the perfect place to refresh or embellish your holiday décor with items for all your seasonal celebrations. The Barn Antiques (closed for summer), offers a selection of fine imported European antiques. Shops open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., restaurant 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
LAKELAND Home to the largest collection of its kind in the world, Lakeland remains one of the most weekendworthy cites to visit in Florida. More than 80 years after famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright constructed his vision of a “College of Tomorrow” at Florida Southern College, the largest one-site collection of the architect’s work still draws visitors from around the world. Envisioning the campus rising out of the ground, Wright dubbed the collection the “Child of the Sun.” Incorporating native sands, shells and glass into the concrete blocks, he arranged the buildings as an homage to an orange grove. Guided tours are available or you can opt to walk around yourself. Just don’t miss the crown jewel, the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, or Wright’s piece domestic bliss, the Usonian House. Located nearby is one of the top-10 art museums in the state, the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College. With an extensive permanent collection of contemporary and modern art, it remains home to rare 19th-century Japanese woodblock prints as well as ceramic plates made by Pablo Picasso. The outdoor garden area showcases a number of permanent sculptures. The museum is closed Mondays as well as major holidays. Visit polkmuseumofart.org before heading out. If you prefer your art al fresco, Lakeland’s murals fit the bill. Found on buildings throughout the city, the selfie-worthy works dot the city. Some of the more memorable ones include the angel selfie wall behind Born & Bread Bakehouse, 1113A S. Florida Ave. or, just a block away, the #Made in Lakeland mural at 1035 S. Florida Ave. Within driving distance on the same road is the mural of the French frigate L’Hermione at 3825 Florida Ave. S behind the Mahoney Group building. More can be found through a simple Google search.
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CITRUS TRAIL As a top citrus producer since the mid-1800s, Polk County has earned the title Florida’s Sweetest Spot. You’ll find many sweet treasures dotting the landscape and there’s even a Citrus Label Driving Tour. Used as marketing tools to distinguish brands, citrus labels were popular from the early 1900s through World War II. The artistic labels depicted Floridian heritage, flora, fauna and historical sites. The tradition of citrus labels ended as cardboard boxes replaced wooden crates due to scarcity from the war effort. Today, enlarged reproductions of these colorful, vintage labels can be found at more than 20 locations across Polk County. For a truly authentic Florida experience, you can pluck an orange straight from the tree and enjoy the golden treasure inside. Ridge Island Groves offers this experience on their grove tours. Afterwards, cool off with a delicious citrus soft-serve cone and peruse their open-air store. For more citrus delicacies, check out the candy factories at Davidson of Dundee and Webb’s Candy Shop then stop for dessert at the Taste of Florida Café at Lang Sun Country Groves. Co-founder Mary Lang’s famous grapefruit pie recipe found world fame after being featured on The Food Network show “Epicurious!” and is an enduring staple on the café’s menu. Surrounded by orange trees, the Florida’s Natural Growers Grove House in Lake Wales offers up more sweetness with assorted samples of their premium juices and a gift shop featuring a wide range of citrus treats and keepsakes. Don’t miss the video tour to see how juice starts as fruit before it is squeezed, packaged and delivered to a supermarket near you. Florida’s citrus season generally runs from October through May, so please check days and hours of operation before visiting those above. For more information, go to VisitCentralFlorida.org.
LEGOLAND FLORIDA RESORT Ahoy matey, and welcome landlubbers to LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s newest reason to visit, the Pirate Island Hotel! The first LEGO pirate-themed hotel in North America, this on-site accommodation invites brick fans to vacation like a pirate. Just steps from the entrance you and your band of privateers can enjoy the resort-style pool, family-style dining and pirate-themed entertainment, including s’mores around the campfire, a 9-hole miniature golf course, daily builds with Master Model Builders in the lobby and pontoon rides on Lake Eloise. And when you and your staycationers are back in the room, the kids can enjoy their own separate sleeping area, LEGO bricks to play with, and their own flat-panel TV with complimentary On-Demand content. Of course, just steps away is the 150-acre interactive LEGOLAND theme park. Featuring more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, restaurants, shops, the LEGOLAND Florida Water Park, two hotels, a beach retreat and a botanical garden, there is plenty to do all day long. Tiny pirates can jump into the LEGO wave pool or the interactive water-play structures of Joker Soaker and DUPLO Safari to the apt named Build-A-Raft River and Creation Cove to cool down, then hop on the pink-knuckle rides like the Coastersaurus. For a more immersive experience, head on over to LEGO Movie Land to the Triple Decker Flying Couch or, for some old school fun, jump on Mia’s Riding Adventure disc coaster. Please note, LEGOLAND Florida Resort has changed some procedures due to the Coronavirus pandemic, including temperature taking at the gate, social distancing at restaurants and stores and stringent cleaning measures. For more information visit www.legoland.com
WILD TIMES But if you really want to get wild, we’ve got a place for you. Tucked away down a winding road seemingly in the middle of nowhere, these wide-open spaces, flat topography and miles of lush field isn’t the sand-and-surf that most think of as Florida. This is where cattle and cowboys once roamed. It is the perfect veld-like setting for Safari Wilderness Ranch, an African safari type experience. Here, cattle still roam, but they are Watusi, the African version of the longhorn, known by their distinctive upright horns that can reach eight feet in length. Opened in 2012, the ranch – a 260-acre expanse – is not a zoo. Here, the animals roam freely, grazing and interacting with each other much like they would at home in Africa or Asia. Eland, water buffalo and antelope mingle with zebras and Watusi cattle, while lemurs dance away on an island in the middle of it all. There are even breeds here that you can no longer find in Africa, such as the Scimitarhorned Oryx. Extinct where they originated, this type of antelope thrives in game farms around the United States. Normally, visitors only have four choices of excursion types – safari bus, kayak safari, camel expedition and llama trek, with most opting for the safari bus, which offers the most shade from Florida’s intense sun and allows visitors to enjoy up-close encounters with the wildlife the park offers. But for a limited time, Safari Wilderness is offering a guided, hour-long drive through tours, allowing you to view the exotic animals around you while observing social distancing. Led by an ATV-riding tour guide, vehicles allowed must be full-sized SUV or smaller. Motorcycles or commercial vehicles are not allowed. For more information or to book your tour, visit safariwilderness.com.
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Maria Anaya Ninety-three-year-old Maria Anaya has much to show for her near-century on Earth. She has eleven children, 39 grandchildren, and thousands of pieces of hand-crocheted artwork. We sat around a table with Maria, her daughters Connie and Alice Anaya, and her granddaughter, 21-year-old Kimberly Padilla surrounded by colorful crochets that were once only spools of yarn until Maria set her hands and mind to them.
give food to the little ones,” said Connie, relaying her mother’s memories of the rough conditions. Another memory relayed is Maria, age 13. She began watching her cousins crochet and taught herself the craft. “She used to look at things that her cousins would make and try to copy what they were doing because she liked how theirs would turn out,” Kimberly said. “She thought the crochet work was pretty so she wanted to make stuff herself.”
The family pulled out a small book with aging photographs telling Maria’s life story flipping through images – Maria and her father some 70 years ago, her mother, mother-in-law, and photos of her and her own small children, around 1950, she estimated.
First, the border for a skirt, progressing to more detailed pieces like tablecloths, doilies, blankets, and tiny dresses to hang as wall decorations. What products of her labor she didn’t keep, she would give away as gifts to friends and relatives. She would sew her children’s clothes growing up and make them stuffed animals and flowers from a patchwork of fabric. Her many children and grandchildren have baby blankets, sweaters, and stuffed animals from Maria.
Born in Guanajuato, Mexico in 1927, Maria had two brothers and two sisters. Her earlier years were marked by violent ripples following the Cristero War. She remembers hiding with her family in a cave for some three months to escape violence in her town. She remembers fear at the sound of horses galloping near their rocky hideaway, with smaller siblings unaware of the importance of their silence. “They had a little flashlight for when they needed to change diapers or
As she grew up and had a family of her own, Maria spent time raising her children and doing agricultural labor. She picked cotton and worked for a company making bricks. She would travel to Texas and eventually Florida for seasonal jobs - CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 -
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before settling with her grown children in Florida in the 1980s, obtaining her citizenship three years ago. She has continued crochet as a hobby throughout her years.
her pattern – it’s kind of like the math is in her head – she knows just how many spaces to count and when she has to make certain stitches for her patterns to come out the right way.”
Connie and Alice learned from their mother how to crochet, though admittedly not to the same gifted standards. Asked if she has passed this craft down to anyone else, Kimberly answered with a small laugh, “She tried to teach me once, but I didn’t grasp it.” Some pieces are monocolored, spare with an ornate pattern. Others are brilliant and vivid with embroidery, depicting crosses, cats, rabbits, donkeys, birds, or flowers. Her favorite material to use is a yarn with shimmery flecks throughout it.
Lynn Oakley has known the Anaya family for 18 years. “She had some health problems and we all agreed we didn’t want to leave her at home alone,” said Oakley of Maria. “So, she came here.” Every day for two years save for the weekends, Maria sits moving her crochet hook with well-practiced hands. “I don’t know how she does it without direction,” said Oakley. “I got to really studying this over the years – how magnificent this is.”
Amid the baby blankets and sweaters, Maria passed down other things. Though Kimberly didn’t grasp the crochet craft, she has learned to cook from her grandmother. Daughter Connie said, “I think one of the best things we learned from her is work, to respect everybody, and to keep going.”
Oakley said she is always amazed to see her do such intricate pieces without a plan or guideline. “This is too important for you not to be noticed,” said Oakley. “… because no one does this anymore.” It is important. Whether Maria is aware of just how remarkable the magic she makes is, it is unclear, but that’s okay. It is a quiet skill, a solitary happiness. She has the kind of humble creativity that needs not announce itself or boast. It’s presence and product say all that needs to be said – Here is artwork from the beautiful mind of Maria Anaya.
Whether she’s working on something small that may take her two days to complete or a more elaborate project like the grand white tablecloth used for her grandson’s wedding, taking her six months to finish – her process is the same. No pattern, no written plan, just counting. Crocheting has become such second nature to her that she can hold conversations as she counts. Kimberly explained, “To make
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Maria and her father
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Salt Strong: Rising Tide Third-generation Central Floridian, angler, author, and entrepreneur Joe Simonds lives in Winter Haven with his wife, Dr. Loren Simonds, and their three children. Fish, or more the memories made catching them, drove Joe and his brother Luke to start an angler-centric company offering products and real-time tips to their fellow fishermen. These memories go back to fishing with friends in Winter Haven.
a company with absolutely zero business plan,” he said. Eighteen months went by and not a penny had been made. Their tentative business plan hinged entirely on selling ads to their site which had more than a sizable chunk of traffic for a fishing niche site – 500,000 visitors in one month. A larger potential advertiser fell through. Joe described the feeling as heartbroken, saying he even went back to look into their non-compete agreement, only solidifying that they had to make this work. “That was one of those pivotal moments where we couldn’t go back,” he said. They stepped back and thought about the massive following they had and reasoned, “Let’s just listen to them and figure out what they want. It turned out a lot of them just wanted education.”
The Lakewood neighborhood surrounding Lake Otis and Lake Link is where Joe and his brother and friends “cut their teeth,” if you will. “Back then kids could go out without parents and we didn’t wear bike helmets and we went out and picked worms in the garden, threw them on a hook, and caught as many fish as we could,” said Simonds. “We would go from house to house and dock to dock.” Not only had fishing been a cement for childhood friendships, but it also served to unify his own family. The brothers would spend every summer at their grandfather’s condo in Daytona Beach getting a taste for the saltwater side of the hobby.
They found sporting goods stores lacking in the education department. They offered all the equipment and none of the know-how. “It’s not really helpful if you don’t know how to use it. No one’s actually teaching you how to use all the stuff to find the fish,” said Joe. Magazines and television shows, though useful, felt a bit topical to these entrepreneurial anglers. Wonderful articles and brilliant photos, but no ‘reel’ guidance.
When their grandfather passed away two years ago, weeks before his 94th birthday, Joe said the twelve grown grandkids all had a few beers and exchanged memories about their grandad. “Every single story was about this beach house and fishing and learning how to tie knots on the beach,” he said. “His entire legacy was essentially this little beach house that we all were raised at every summer.” That family unity and connection to the outdoors deepened by their love of the sport was the catalyst for what would become Salt Strong.
What started as two brothers and a simple video educationbased service five years has exploded into an 8 full-time employee business offering tips, education, and products with even bigger plans over the horizon. Salt Strong only started offering fishing gear about a year ago, a piece that has proven fundamental to their business and the services they provide. “We sell the lure, and on the back-end, we teach them how to use it and find the fish,” said Joe. One of the most popular items in their full suite of tackle products is their Slam Shady lure.
FULFILLMENT IN FISHING When the brothers were able to drive, they began traveling the state for fishing adventures, even discussing dreams of a future fishing company. They would one day have that company, but as fate often does, the path to it was circumvented a bit. After high school, Joe went the route of a financial advisor before moving into a wholesaling career.
Salt Strong’s niche within the angler community lies in the immediacy of the information they provide. Someone on their team (often Luke) will spend all day on the water fishing and filming, relaying trends in real-time. “By the end of the day, all of our members can see exactly where he was, it’s truly real-time, on-demand, what’s working right now,” said Simonds. “We have at least one new piece of content every day – seven days a week.” A large part of their content is for the public, but Salt Strong reserves the best of the best, including revealing fishing spots, for their members.
At 28 years old, Joe was diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer. He recovered and came out the other side of his battle with the realization that life was too short to be unfulfilled. He quit his job to start his own wholesaling company which his brother eventually joined. Out of the blue in 2014, two gentlemen from Arizona approached the Simonds’ about buying their financial services company.
TACKLE-ING BUSINESS GOALS
A SALTY START
Together Joe and Luke have caught a snook from a thirdstory balcony in Tampa and even found a Salt Strong theme song, “Fishing in Our Soul.” WPCV 97.5 FM radio host Sara Michaels who went to school with Joe, heard the song (originally by John Gunter) and texted Joe. He got
In December of 2014, the Simonds closed the deal, signing a two-year non-compete agreement which meant Salt Strong – which they started the following month – had to work. “Then we did the dumbest thing possible – we started
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goosebumps his first time listening and put in to buy the rights. They did, reworked the song a bit to reflect their saltwater niche, and had Hunter Smith sing and produce it. They recorded the music video in just two days. “It was the perfect song for what we represent,” said Joe. “Our whole mission is about uniting families through fishing.”
“At some point, this generation are going to be the politicians, they’re going to be the ones making the decisions, they’re going to be the high-powered attorney who’s making the decision – do we take all this beautiful land and all these estuaries and all this beautiful pristine area and leave it like it is or do we build a parking lot on it?” he said. “If those kids have never experienced those memories with their friends and families – regardless of if they’re fishing or not, just seeing what nature is there – they’re probably going to make the decision to go with the money.”
With these and many other fond Salt Strong memories behind them, the brothers look to secure their place in the future of fishing in Central Florida. Sooner rather than later, you could enjoy an indoor Salt Strong facility in Winter Haven. They are ever-thankful for the connections they can make online but look forward to uniting people face to face with plans to even offer coaching. “Think of a Bass Pro but with casting ponds inside the place where you can learn how to cast a rod or see what your lure should look like underwater,” Simonds said of the concept. Beyond that, the brothers have sights set on acquiring a 50+ acre property somewhere in Central Florida to create an experience even bigger and more unique around their brand.
To encourage children and young adult anglers, Salt Strong has devised an incentive membership. Their normal membership is $97 a year which includes 20% off their rods, reels, and all fishing tackle, plus all the invaluable real-time information they pull together. For a parent just making ends meet or the broke college student that wants to get more into the sport, Salt Strong has rolled out the Thirty Under Thirty program. Anglers under 30 years of age can get a membership for $30 a year. “A big part for us is not necessarily just catching fish, it’s how can we make sure that our kids and their kids and their kids have the same experiences and at least the same opportunities that we did to go fishing.”
INSPIRING OUR FUTURE FISHERMEN In step with their mission of family unity through fishing, Joe encourages getting your kids outside. “I don’t expect all of them to love it like we do, but to get them outside and exposed to it.”
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Salt Strong www.saltstrong.com www.youtube.com/user/saltstrong FB & IG @thesaltstrong
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Family Unlimited “Once you hear the name Sharkey you don’t hardly forget it,” said Sharkey Baz (named after American world heavyweightboxing champion Jack Sharkey). “I don’t know everybody in Winter Haven, but everybody in Winter Haven knows me.”
decided he was going to retire. Jimel called Sharkey to tell him about his business in Florida. “I decided to come on down and give him a hand,” said Sharkey. “I came down here for one year – that was in 1975 – now that’s been a long year. We haven’t left!” he laughed.
Maybe it’s his unforgettable name or maybe it’s the reputation the Baz family has cultivated through years of honest work and customer service at their downtown auto repair shop that has made Tires Unlimited a Winter Haven fixture. The story goes back to the 50s and 60s, according to current Tires Unlimited Operations Manager, Shane Baz. That’s when his Uncle Turk owned the Northgate Citgo in town. Shane’s dad Jimel came down to work with Turk at the station.
“I went into the military service at 18, right after I got out of high school for the purpose of going to flight school,” said Sharkey. He went on to have a long and celebrated career in both military and flight. He has been a corporate pilot for many businesses and even taught many people to fly. “That was a big part of my childhood too was jumping in the airplane with those guys [his father and uncle]. We’d fly up to North Florida to have lunch. Anytime they could be flying they’d rather be doing that than anything,” said his nephew, Shane.
“There wasn’t a service station on every corner back then,” said Shane. He talked about the full-service days of pulling over the strip that would ring a bell. “The guys would run out and check all your fluids, check your tire pressure and they’d vacuum the car out and fill it up with gas,” he said.
The brothers found a piece of property, acquired a loan, and contracted Whitehead Construction for their new building. They broke ground on their current location in May of 1976. They even have a photo of the groundbreaking ceremony with The Haven Hotel in the background and Jimel and Sharkey Baz, Jack Straughn, Reggie Whitehead, among others present.
Tires Unlimited started modestly in a separate space of that Northgate Citgo in 1971. “He went out and bought an El Camino and started doing tires out of the back of it,” said Shane of his father. Turk, Jimel, and his “service vehicle” El Camino built up a commercial tire business for citrus companies and fleet trucks. Even now they call back to their full-service station days of going above and beyond. They wash the wheels and tires and vacuum any vehicle in their care. “That’s just something we’ve always done and always will do,” said Shane.
Their younger brother Douglas joined Sharkey and Jimel in 1980, with the former two buying out Jimel in the 1990s. Jimel passed away in 2014. Doug and Sharkey retired earlier this year and Jimel’s son Shane took over the family business. “I started working here when I was about seven sweeping the floors,” Shane said. Sweeping floors turned into an after-school gig cleaning and painting wheel weights and organizing trays. “I’ve been paying taxes on the books since I was 12 years old.”
Turk sold the Citgo station at the end of 1971 to Wally Varner. Wally got out of the service station business and partnered with Jimel to open Tires Unlimited on 6th and Central.
Though almost 50 years have passed since Tires Unlimited began servicing customers, their business practices haven’t
In 1975, after a combat tour in Korea and Vietnam, Sharkey
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Below is the biography of Sharkey Baz, detailing his achievements and accolades from the Association for the Recovery of Children, recoveryofchildren.org, which Sharkey’s son, Bazzel Baz founded and of which Sharkey sits on the Board of Directors.
budged. “I made a policy since the beginning,” Sharkey said. “I said, ‘You see that door over there,’ everybody said yeah. I said, ‘Okay, a lady just walked in that door, do you know who that is? That’s my wife, my daughter, or my mother. If she walks in, you open the door for her – she’s your wife, your daughter, your mother. That’s how I want you to treat every customer that we have.’”
Airline Transport Pilot with over fifty years of flying experience with 14,000 + hours. Certified Flight Instructor/Instrument Instructor, Single and Multi-engine aircraft both land and sea. Type rated in Lear, Citation Jets and King Air 350. (prior owner of Lear 003) Chief Pilot of Citrus World, Director of Aviation Polk Air Inc., Director of Aviation Alpha Jet Inc. Panorama Air Tours Hawaii, ComAir Orlando Fla.
“Everyone knows they can come here and we’re not going to take advantage of them and they can trust what we say,” said Shane. “Through the years it’s been a consistent level of service that people have grown to count on.”
He is a retired Major United States Army, former 8th Special Forces Group (Green Beret) and distinguished combatant from conflicts in Korea and Vietnam. He also served as Senior Military Police Advisor to the Georgia National Guard, Forces Command Headquarters, and United States Air Force Crew Chief KB-29 Air Refueling.
Shane’s son Sebastian just graduated high school and has come to work with his dad before solidifying his college plans. He worked in the garage as an after-school job for a year and just came back to work on the sales and administrative side. “It’s amazing, it’s a lot of fun,” Sebastian said about working with his dad. “Next in line to take over,” he joked.
Sharkey holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Law from the University of Nebraska and attended Language School (Spanish) in Monterey California. He is the recipient of Prcht Badge, GCMDL, ARCOM w/1st OLC, EIB, AFRM, VCM w/60 Dev, VSM w/4 Bronze Stars, VCG w/ Palm, AM, BSM , Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Royal Thai Supr Mst Badge, MSM.
Years spent building relationships whether through aviation or their auto shop means second, third, fourth-generation customers turned friends. “Most of the families in town know us and know what we’re about and know what we do and it doesn’t look like there are any signs of that slowing down which I’m thankful for,” said Shane Baz. “Our customers are like family and it’s so much nicer to do business that way.”
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Tires Unlimited 500 Ave D NW, Winter Haven (863) 294-4261
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Jimel
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WORDS Tara Crutchfield
PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson
Not Your Mama’ s Pancakes off the ground, or on the road rather. Not Your Mama’s Pancakes celebrated two years in January.
With Omar Gonzalez’s culinary chops and his wife Caylee’s front of the house, hospitality, and catering background, the odds and pancakes were stacked in their favor. “We knew that we wanted to do a food truck. We had been talking about, probably since we got together, that we wanted to open a food truck, but we didn’t have a concept,” said Caylee.
FROM 14 TO FOOD TRUCK OWNER “I was 14 when I started in restaurants, serving, cooking,” said Omar. “It’s what we call a Lechonera, like a mom and pop barbecue joint, but it’s Puerto Rican food.” He took a year off after high school to enjoy life before attending his local community college.
When the couple was expecting their first child, Amyr, Caylee’s biggest craving was for pancakes. Omar, who has been in the culinary industry for some 22 years isn’t a fan of traditional breakfast pancakes. He went to work in their kitchen putting his spin on them, fusing cultures and flavors to meet his wife’s cravings. “Every country has its own [version of] pancakes – from China, Japan – zucchini pancakes, potato pancakes. Central America has the arepa, pupusa, even the tortilla is a pancake,” he said.
One of his teachers dined at the restaurant where Omar was working as the chef. Impressed with his culinary abilities, his teacher offered him a job at a fine dining restaurant, which he took. This teacher, he described as not only his professor and boss but friend and mentor. This fine-dining job landed him an opportunity to participate in a competition for Bacardi. His dish blended flavors from Italy with those from the Caribbean and he won first place in the food competition.
You might say that Amyr kicked off their concept in utero. It’s only fitting that one of his first words was ‘pancake.’ “I didn’t grow up with my dad and family is the most important thing for me. And this,” he said motioning to the Not Your Mama’s Pancakes truck, “gives you the time to do it.” The Gonzalez’s enjoy the freedom of schedule and location their food truck affords them, even taking a week off every year for Amyr’s birthday. It took the couple two years to get their food truck
When he moved to Florida, he found himself creatively stifled by work at franchises. Omar met his wife at Planet Hollywood where he was a cook and Caylee a server. Yearning for something of their very own, the couple decided it was time to set out on their entrepreneurial endeavor. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 58 -
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The constant change of pace and freedom of a food truck attracted them. “All the events are different. It’s a different experience every single time, a different challenge,” said Omar. It doesn’t come with the same trappings of staffing and running a brick and mortar and he says the customer experience is different between the two. “You’re bringing the food to the people. [...] They’re happier when they come to a food truck. It’s an experience,” he said.
“We don’t have a set catering menu. We like to make sure that we personalize. […] If you’re having a wedding, we want it to be specialized to you and your taste,” Caylee added. This including small bite and brunch options like their enticing charcuterie board. LET’S MAKE IT SAUCY The Gonzalez’s have a new concept in mind. Let’s Make it Saucy will revolve around all things sauce out of their same NYMP food truck. “Everything is going to be served with a sauce on top of it or something where it’s with a dip or smothered in sauce,” said Caylee. She’s a sauce person at heart and Omar loves to get creative experimenting with them. Every dish will have a sauce in it, on it, or served alongside it from a burger with a melty cheesy sauce to wings smothered in sauce. “It’s going to be all types of cuisine from Spanish cuisine to Italian, Southern cuisine, everything,” said Omar.
LIKE YOUR MAMA’S PANCAKES, BUT DIFFERENT They started with the chicken and pancake. Their version of chicken and waffles, this dish is made with a cheddar cheese infused pancake, fried chicken tenderloins battered in their pancake flour, dusted with powdered sugar and a drizzle of spicy honey. This is a delight so good, it’s the one they recommend as an introduction to NYMP. Another staple is their chicken parmesan which started as a fork and knife dish, now a handheld pancake sandwich or “panwich.” To soothe your sweet tooth, Not Your Mama’s Pancakes have churros (a fan-favorite) and a Snickers pancake roll up. Their fresh spin on the breakfast food won them #4 on the list of a Central Florida Food Blogger for their pancake burger. “If I don’t eat it, I don’t sell it,” said Omar. “It’s about having pride in what you serve and the customer service.” In addition to their namesake, Not Your Mama’s Pancakes likes to switch it up with different comfort food offerings and flavors including burritos and tacos or “pacos.”
Expect marinara and pesto, southern gravy, au jus, fruit sauces, chimichurri, and everything in between. They gave a nod to this new direction on their social media pages with the Mama’s Dipping Platter – fresh tortilla chips, signature chicken bites, beer-battered onion rings, sweet potato fries, house-seasoned crinkle fries, all served alongside 8 specialty dipping sauces of varying colors, flavors, and consistencies, and their apple slaw. The couple hopes to roll out their new concept, Let’s Make it Saucy this Fall.
They adhere to this same innovative accommodation when it comes to catering which they’ve been doing for a little over a year now. “We’re different,” said Omar. “We try to accommodate the flavors and what they’re looking for with a twist.”
havenmagazines.com
Not Your Mama’s Pancakes For catering: notyourmamaspancakes@yahoo.com FB @NotYourMamasPancakes IG @notyourmamaspancakes
58
Groomingdeals, Inc.
10 Years of Service
Angie Todd
Owner / Groomer FamilyandOwned 2019
Operated
Best of
Happy 4th of July!
WINNER 1616 Sixth Street S.E. Winter Haven, FL 33880
Stina’s AAA Vertical Blind Factory 785 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 325-8898 www.stinasblinds.com
www.groomingdeals.com
(863) 294-PUPS (7877)
Sitting in your car less? Start saving more.
New Arrivals Daily
Come in for a “Chic Peek”
Milewise® From Allstate PAY-PER-MILE CAR INSURANCE*
ReCycle ReChic & ReSale with us.
Polston Insurance Agency 767 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven (863) 294-7637 // lynnpolston@allstate.com
34 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven, FL • (863) 326-0393
*Starting July 25th
We welcome consignors by appointment only
UNUSUAL BLOOMS AND WIDE OPEN SPACES
DISCOVER THE SINGING TOWER, ACRES OF HISTORIC OLMSTED GARDENS AND ESTATE TOURS, A CHILDREN’S GARDEN AND MORE! One of the most remarkable examples of adaptation in the plant world, carnivorous plants derive most of there nutrients THE ART AND SCIENCE OF CARNIVOROUS PLANTS
from trapping and consuming insects. Explore the world of carnivorous plants with lager–than–life sculptures created by Central Florida artist Rick Sgrillo and a living display of pitcher plants, sundews and more in the Wild Garden.
1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG
59
Drunk “Dole Whip” 5 cups frozen pineapple ¾ cup coconut milk ½ cup coconut rum ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk Blend all ingredients until thick and creamy. Pour into glasses and garnish with a cherry. It tastes like the Dole Whip at Disney, only better! Add rum and subtract the crowds, what’s better than that? 21+ Please don’t drink and drive.
havenmagazines.com
60
Happy 4th from
Live Life Smiling
Offices in Winter Haven and Lakeland | www.scottsmiles.com
let us take care of the BBQ!
the red geranium HOME & GIFT MARKET Vote for us Best Of Haven – #55 Gift Shop Havenmagazines.com Like & Follow us @theredgeraniumwh
ONLINE ORDERING & DELIVERY AVAILABLE
GASKINSBARBECUE.COM (863) 656-1605
CLOTHING • GIFTS • JEWELRY FURNITURE • “SHE-SHED”
600 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
– 605 E. Central Ave., Winter Haven – 863.291.8585 // Mon-Fri 10-4pm Sat 10-5pm
61
WORDS Lisbeth Pacheco, Ph.D.
Ultimate Road Trip Cold Brew! No matter where you’re headed this Summer, this refreshing Cold Brew recipe will be the perfect road companion - it’ll keep you refreshed, energized, and save you from having to drink gas station coffee! (oh no, no, no!)
1. Grind 4 oz of coffee in a coarse setting (i.e. same setting as French Press). Central and South American beans are always great choices for cold brewing! Make sure your beans are fresh (but not too fresh - wait at least 3-4 days from the roasting date) for the best experience.
First things first... what exactly is Cold Brew? The name practically gives it away... it’s coffee brewed at cold temperatures, over extended periods of time. It is actually distinct from hot-brewed or pour-over coffee served over ice - which is Iced Coffee! In fact, what makes Cold Brew special is that cold brewing over long periods of time favors the extraction of specific components, while hot brewing methods tend to extract all soluble components. This is mainly due to the different solubility rates of different components at different temperatures. Caffeine, for example, is only slightly soluble (~1-2 g/100 mL) in cold water, yet highly soluble in hot water (~65 g/100 mL). Naturally occurring phenolic acids are also more soluble in hot water, which often means a much lower astringency on cold brews! (i.e. a smoother cup)
2. Place your ground coffee at the bottom of your French Press (or inside a built-in filter, cloth or paper filter on your Cold Brew maker). Pour 4 cups (32 oz) of spring water, and mix with a spoon, ensuring all your grounds are wet. 3. Steep for 18-22 hours under refrigeration (do shorter times for a more delicate flavor, longer times for a stronger flavor - never exceed 24 hours, as you may extract longer, bitter components). Plunge your French Press and transfer to a storage or serving container, or remove the filter with the grounds from your Cold Brew maker. Your concentrate is ready! 4. Keep refrigerated and serve over ice, or add any sweeteners, milk or flavors as desired. You can pack the concentrate with ice to keep it cool during short trips. Keep it in a cooler and re-fill your insulated cup on long trips! We doubt you’ll have any leftovers, but if you do… you can make coffee ice cubes! Happy cold brewing and safe travels!
Now that you understand some Cold Brew chemistry... it’s time to have some fun making it! Here’s our step-by-step Cold Brew recipe (you can make this one in a 4-cup French Press, or adapt it to a larger batch if you have a Cold Brew maker!):
havenmagazines.com
Lisbeth Pacheco, Ph.D. | Chief Coffee & Impact Seeker Ethos Coffee Roasters (863) 940-0060 ethosroasters.com FB & IG @ethosroasters
62
Master Jewelers
Vicky Holloway • 863.557.9003
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS 2019
BRAND NEW W/ AN OPEN FLOOR PLAN!
Best of WINNER
Got Gold & Silver?
4 BD/ 2 BA • 1,460 SF • BRAND NEW Open Floor Plan • Ceramic Tile Granite Countertops • Corner Lot
Buy • Trade • Redesign
$230,000
$1
29
,9
00
Dedicated to You, Dedicated to Results!
Text or Call 863.299.7966 111 Ave. G S.E., Winter Haven
Dolores Vogel • 863.632.5573 GREAT OPPORTUNITY W/ AN OPEN FLOOR PLAN!
WE DIAGNOSE AND FIX PROBLEMS THE FIRST TIME.
2 BD/ 2 BA • 1,296 SF • .30 Acre • Ceramic Tile • Huge Enclosed Porch Circular Drive • New Roof • Tenant Occupied
COUPON REQUIRED
OIL CHANGES Includes Tire Rotation & Vehicle Checkup $1
59
,9
00
$
19
* 95 Standard
or
$
Oil Change
39
* 95 Full Synthetic Oil Change
Valid at Winter Haven Tuffy location only. *Standard oil change includes up to 5 qts of quality 5w30 oil. Full synthetic oil is house brand. Standard spin-on oil filter (some filters extras). Must present coupon. Shop supplies/waste and taxes extra. Most cars and light trucks. Expires 6/30/19.
COUPON REQUIRED
Clay Vogel • 239.288.1398
COUPON REQUIRED
Is Your Check Engine Light On?
Is Your Air Not Cooling?
FREE FREE *
WATER ACCESS IN A GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY!
Computer Diagnostic Scan
3 BD/ 2 BA • 1,934 SF • .50 Acres • Split Floor Plan Two Large Living Rooms • Ceramic Tile • Walk-In Closets • Water Access Golf Course Community • Public Boat Ramp
*
A/C System Check
Valid at Winter Haven Tuffy location only. See store for details. *May need additional labor. Most cars and light trucks. Must present coupon. Limit 1 per person. In lieu of other offers. Expires 6/30/19.
Valid at Winter Haven Tuffy location only. See store for details. Most cars and light trucks. Must present coupon. Limit 1 per person. In lieu of other offers. Expires 6/30/19.
COUPON REQUIRED
COUPON REQUIRED
TUFFY BUCKS Lifetime Warranted! Free Brake Inspection!
20
89
,9
00
$
OFF*
$2
Any Service Over $100
Valid at Winter Haven Tuffy location only. See store for details. *Additional fees may apply. In lieu of other offers. Most cars and light trucks. Expires 6/30/19.
Winter Haven, FL 33884
863-318-8339
www.LegacyRealEstateCenter.com
863-676-0200
Valid at Winter Haven Tuffy location only. Save on our complete line of lifetime warranted brakes, good for as long as you own your car. Additional brake parts may be needed at added cost. In lieu of other offers. Most cars and light trucks. Expires 6/30/19.
6906 Cypress Gardens Blvd.
7,200 SF • High Ceilings • Central Air • Dedicated Parking
WINNER
Brakes
per axle
Your Neighborhood Full Service Repair Facility
AWESOME LOCATION W/ AMAZING POSSIBILITIES!
Best of
Starting At
95*
Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm • Sat 7:30am-4pm • Closed Sunday
Dolores Vogel • 863.632.5573
2019
99
$
2019
Best of WINNER
tuffywinterhaven.com 63
2 Year/24,000 Mile Warranty • Convenient Financing Options Available • ASE Certified Technicians
How Many Buyers Are Looking For Your House? WINTER HAVEN 33884
WINTER HAVEN 33881
85
225
29
14
2
7
3
114
130
13
5
41
106
23
8
7
5
12
39
67
10
3
201-300K
301-400K
1
2
63
341
89
29
7
1
2
2
4
26
125
66
37
11
6
4
1
4
AUBURNDALE 33823
1
750K+
1
601-750K
1
4
501-600K
10
14
401-500K
52
100-200K
LAKE WALES 33853
2
90
142
27
5
19
34
25
2
DAVENPORT 33837
2
HAINES CITY 33844
2
85
225
13
3
41
106
11
12
1 2
SOLD PRIOR 6 MONTHS* ACTIVE LISTINGS*
*Numbers as of 06/22/2020.
havenmagazines.com
863-419-9010 863-875-5656 304 East Park St, 36248 US-17, Haines City Auburndale 64
863-324-1000 230 W. Central Ave, Winter Haven
SOLD HOMES
DAVENPORT 141 ARIA WAY....................................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020............$53,000 951 BENJAMIN TRL............................DAVENPORT.......... 6/4/2020........... $56,400
AUBURNDALE
226 ST GEORGE DR..........................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020............$75,500
128 VALENCIA RIDGE DR............... AUBURNDALE.......... 6/2/2020............$69,900
901 CHARO PKWY 711.......................DAVENPORT.......... 6/6/2020........... $112,900
160 VALENCIA RIDGE DR............... AUBURNDALE.......... 6/2/2020............$69,900
3336 CALABRIA AVE.........................DAVENPORT.......... 6/4/2020.......... $120,000
4142 K VILLE AVE........................... AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020.......... $120,000
114 LUCAYA LOOP 7302....................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020.......... $122,000
214 PIKE ST.................................... AUBURNDALE.......... 6/2/2020.......... $122,000
222 COCO PLUM DR.........................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020.......... $162,500
2054 LAKE ARIANA BLVD.............. AUBURNDALE.......... 6/3/2020..........$140,000
739 ORCHID DR................................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020.......... $165,000
107 DAVIS ST.................................. AUBURNDALE.......... 6/4/2020..........$140,000
337 COCONUT PALM WAY...............DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020.......... $175,000
4345 BRIERWOOD CIR.................. AUBURNDALE.......... 6/5/2020.......... $143,900
134 ORCHID DR................................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020...........$179,500
513 PINTAIL CIR.............................. AUBURNDALE.......... 6/2/2020.......... $195,000
201 CYPRESS ST................................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$180,000
134 BRIGHTON CIR........................ AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020.......... $199,900
2521 FAN PALM DR............................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020.......... $182,000
524 BURNHAM CIR........................ AUBURNDALE.......... 6/3/2020.......... $213,000
114 AUSTRALIAN WAY......................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020.......... $182,600
5587 ORO VALLEY RD................... AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020.......... $219,000
119 LOBLOLLY LN..............................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020......... $200,000
220 WATERVIEW CIR..................... AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020..........$229,000
162 LOBLOLLY LN..............................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020......... $200,000
605 FINN AVE................................ AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020......... $230,000
166 LOBLOLLY LN.............................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020......... $200,000
2040 HARRELL RD........................ AUBURNDALE.......... 6/3/2020..........$232,000
174 LOBLOLLY LN..............................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020......... $200,000
409 BURNHAM CIR....................... AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020..........$233,000
243 ANNABELLE WAY.......................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020......... $206,500
109 BRIGHTON WAY...................... AUBURNDALE.......... 6/3/2020..........$233,000
336 CALIFORNIA BLVD.....................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020......... $208,000
514 AUTUMN STREAM DR............. AUBURNDALE.......... 6/4/2020..........$234,500
725 VISTA OAKS WAY.......................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020...........$213,500
339 SAN MAURO DR...................... AUBURNDALE........ 5/30/2020.......... $235,700
321 GRAYSTONE BLVD......................DAVENPORT.......... 6/3/2020...........$215,500
902 FLAG CT.................................. AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020..........$239,900
266 SIGMUND LOOP........................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020...........$219,900
448 OSCEOLA ST.......................... AUBURNDALE........... 6/1/2020......... $240,000
259 ANNABELLE WAY.......................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020.......... $222,900
2252 LAKE ARIANA BLVD............... AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020......... $320,000
532 WINDRUSH DR..........................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$225,000
507 SHALISA BLVD........................ AUBURNDALE........ 5/29/2020..........$322,000
134 HILLCREST RD............................DAVENPORT.......... 6/8/2020..........$226,000
4976 TENNESSEE LAKE DR............ AUBURNDALE.......... 6/5/2020...........$329,100
119 BAY ST.........................................DAVENPORT.......... 6/5/2020..........$233,000
2108 BETTY ANN DR...................... AUBURNDALE........... 6/1/2020..........$355,000
205 LUDISIA LOOP...........................DAVENPORT.......... 6/5/2020..........$233,000
468 BURNHAM CIR....................... AUBURNDALE.......... 6/2/2020..........$639,900
135 LANCASTER DR..........................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$235,000
BARTOW
497 BUCHANNAN DR.......................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020......... $242,000 111 LOBLOLLY LN...............................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020......... $245,000
415 RESTWOOD AVE............................. BARTOW.......... 6/8/2020........... $50,000
311 BUCHANNAN DR.........................DAVENPORT.......... 6/5/2020..........$248,200
505 BEARCREEK DR.............................. BARTOW.......... 6/4/2020........... $58,000
140 EAGLEVIEW LOOP.....................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020...........$261,500
1950 E F GRIFFIN RD.............................. BARTOW.......... 6/4/2020........... $85,000
355 WILDFLOWER RD.......................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020..........$262,000
132 PAUL REVERE RD............................. BARTOW.......... 6/5/2020........... $137,500
110 LOBLOLLY LN..............................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020..........$262,600
370 INDICA CT....................................... BARTOW.......... 6/4/2020...........$157,000
209 TANGLEWOOD DR....................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$268,500
350 KISSENGEN PARK DR...................... BARTOW.......... 6/4/2020.......... $233,200
804 RESERVE PL...............................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020......... $269,000
2094 COUNTRY AIRE LOOP.................. BARTOW.......... 6/3/2020..........$272,000
133 LUDISIA LOOP............................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020.......... $277,000
5021 RIFLE RANGE RD........................... BARTOW.......... 6/5/2020......... $302,000
339 TOMELLOSO WAY.....................DAVENPORT.......... 6/5/2020.......... $283,700
248 KISSENGEN PARK DR...................... BARTOW.......... 6/8/2020..........$336,900 6160 RIVERLAKE BLVD.......................... BARTOW........ 5/29/2020......... $434,900
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 68 -
CATHY “K” KLUYTENAAR &
The K Team Real Estate Services
RELAX. YOU’RE HOME.
Polk County’s Favorite Real Estate Family
Cathy Kluytenaar Zac Kluytenaar
Visit our new website at yourkteam.com
Florrie Kluytenaar
863-604-6220 65
UNCOMPROMISED RETIREMENT LIVING
Lifecare 101: Offering Peace of Mind for a Lifetime
W
hen searching for a retirement lifestyle, there are many things older adults should keep in mind. From what programs a retirement community offers and the dining options they provide to wellness opportunities and the privacy of the apartment homes, there’s truly no shortage of things to think about when considering retirement living options. One thing older adults absolutely shouldn’t worry about, however, is the future. While care may not be at the top of your mind at this moment, no one wants to have a health scare that requires them to leave the community and lifestyle they love. Instead, when thinking about retirement lifestyles, consider a community that offers Lifecare to give you absolute peace of mind – no matter how needs our may change.
Enjoy
According to Jeanie Tini, Marketing Director at The Estates at Carpenters – a Life Plan Community in Lakeland, Florida – The Estates provides this peace of mind for residents every day. “Our residents absolutely love how our lifestyle revolves entirely around them, from the experiences and activities to the flexibility and convenience of Lifecare,” says Jeanie. “Residents can enjoy their days as they choose and be reassured that care will be available if and whenever they need it – right on site from the community they know and trust.”
paying for independent living,” she adds. This helps with both financial planning and easing the everyday anxiety residents face, freeing up their time and allowing them to enjoy each day as it comes. What services does Lifecare at The Estates provide? Residents can rest assured that their care needs will always be met. The Estates offers independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing, as well as short- and long-term rehabilitation, with dedicated care from highly trained professionals available 24 hours a day. With a medical director, rehabilitation therapist, wellness and social director and nutritionist on site, all your needs can be met. Our location is also near the acclaimed Lakeland Regional Health, providing additional peace of mind.
array of amenities and convenient services plus financial security and peace of mind for the future with on-site, five-star rated, award-winning health care services.
How much does Lifecare cost? Many Lifecare communities, such as The Estates at Carpenters, have a one-time entrance fee plus a monthly fee, which guarantees a lifetime of care at a predictable cost.
How does Lifecare protect my financial assets? With regular senior living communities, the cost of future health care may cause savings to deplete quickly; but with a Type A contract, residents are guaranteed unlimited lifetime access to care with rates that never significantly increase. This translates to substantial savings compared to pay-as-you-go health care options.
LIFECARE 101: THE BASICS
EXPERIENCE WHAT IT MEANS TO HAVE TRUE PEACE OF MIND
What is Lifecare? Lifecare, according to AARP , usually offers unlimited assisted living, medical treatment and skilled nursing without the fear of additional charges or needing to move from the community you love. “Health care costs tend to rise drastically as care needs change in assisted living and skilled nursing communities,” says Jeanie. “Lifecare communities give the security of knowing rates won't change even as care needs begin to rise. Residents who are part of our Lifecare program pay the same monthly rates for those services as they’ve always been ®
With the security and peace of mind of Lifecare, it’s no surprise why The Estates at Carpenters is the right choice for a perfectly planned retirement lifestyle. Schedule a tour and talk to our residents and team about why Lifecare at The Estates at Carpenters just makes good financial sense! Discover the uncompromised retirement lifestyle you deserve. Schedule your visit today!
Check out the blog on our website for more educational articles! And call us for information on how to join upcoming online classes and events. havenmagazines.com
66
Making
Connections
WELLNESS FOR THE
We know how important lifelong learning and a healthy mind are. We also know that many retirees never want to stop learning or exploring. This is why we have an array of wellness opportunities for the mind. Each day is a chance to learn something new and challenge yourself.
How Wellness Programs Enhance Life at The Estates
WELLNESS FOR THE
A
t The Estates, wellness programs are interconnected with everything – from fitness and nutrition to outings and cultural opportunities. With a focus on body, mind and spirit, it’s easy to see why residents are so excited about the possibilities of each day.
WELLNESS FOR THE
Mind Spirit
Through cultural experiences, multiple social events and religious programs, The Estates cultivates wellness for the spirit. With a chaplain and chapel on site, Thursday night service with guest speakers, previous pastors who are part of the community, musicians who come to sing, and a weekly group Bible study, our residents can enjoy spiritual well-being. You can even join one of our online daily devotionals or programs now!
Body
All of these things and more contribute to making The Estates a wonderful place to live well – and age even better!
We have a full-time personal trainer on site who creates, coordinates and ensures residents have access to all the activities, programs and training they need. Marco Silveira, The Estates’ Wellness Coordinator, has a strong passion for older adults. He trains residents in our recently renovated and state-of-the-art fitness center. The design, equipment and programming were chosen specifically for multiple levels of health and physical abilities. Taking strengths and weaknesses, interests and goals into account, Marco trains residents one-on-one or in groups, and ensures that each resident understands the equipment to get them more comfortable with exercising.
Vote For Us! Help The Estates be named Best of LKLD and Best of Haven! By voting, you're helping us share our Uncompromised Retirement Lifestyle with others. Thank you for your support!
Visit www.HavenMagazines.com to vote.
“WE ARE STILL LIVING THE RETIREMENT DREAM!” “We chose The Estates at Carpenters after doing extensive research on CCRCs and found that due to great financial stability, The Estates has thrived for 34 years. We are especially pleased with The Estates’ Life Plan Program and, since we have enjoyed over 30 years of camping and traveling, we are very impressed with the variety and quality of the daily activities and events provided at The Estates. During the last few months of uncertainty, everyone has been fantastic! There has been a very thorough screening process to get through the gate, great food and menu selections, groceries delivered to our door and constant updates from the amazing staff. We feel as safe as possible!”
– Dean and Tacy Sarbaugh
Call today or visit our website to see why NOW is the time! You can find out more about our limited remaining floor plans, check out our financial calculator and see the true VALUE of living at The Estates.
863-837-4692 FIVE YEARS RUNNING
1001 Carpenters Way | Lakeland, FL 33809 | EstatesAtCarpenters.com 67
Like Us on
235 WILLIAMSON DR........................DAVENPORT.......... 6/3/2020......... $285,000
4444 STRATHMORE DR...................LAKE WALES.......... 6/2/2020............$211,700
1203 OAK BLUFF DR..........................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$285,200
14247 CAMP MACK RD.....................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020..........$255,000
413 ALMANSA ST..............................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020.......... $287,000
1050 CAMPBELL AVE........................LAKE WALES.......... 6/5/2020..........$259,000
117 EAGLEVIEW LOOP.......................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020......... $288,000
1037 SUNSET DR...............................LAKE WALES.......... 6/5/2020......... $345,000
112 TRINITY RIDGE CIR......................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$293,400
6868 PALMETTO DR........................LAKE WALES........... 6/1/2020......... $350,000
130 BACOPA PASS.............................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020..........$295,000
401 4TH ST.......................................LAKE WALES........... 6/1/2020..........$575,000
1207 OAK BLUFF DR..........................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020......... $306,600
301 EAGLE RIDGE DR........................LAKE WALES.......... 6/9/2020....... $1,450,000
377 SUMMER SQUALL RD................DAVENPORT.......... 6/5/2020........... $310,100
LAKELAND
535 PALOMA DR...............................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020.......... $315,000
1511 LINCOLN AVE............................... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020........... $50,000
1020 COVENTRY RD.........................DAVENPORT.......... 6/5/2020...........$315,500
413 W HULL ST.................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020............$55,000
512 SAPPHIRE DR..............................DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020.......... $316,900
531 OAK RDG...................................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020........... $56,000
373 SUMMER SQUALL RD................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020...........$317,000
1003 ELIZABETH LN............................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020........... $65,000
381 SUMMER SQUALL RD.................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020...........$324,100
6348 ENGLISH CREEK DR................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020........... $65,000
393 SUMMER SQUALL RD................DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020........... $327,100
6104 ALLEN LN................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020........... $65,000
670 ORANGE COSMOS BLVD...........DAVENPORT........ 5/29/2020......... $340,000
1118 N DAVIS AVE................................. LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020........... $80,000
450 BONVILLE DR............................DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020......... $340,000
1920 EDGEWOOD DR #C1................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020........... $84,000
267 YELLOW SNAPDRAGON DR.......DAVENPORT.......... 6/2/2020......... $344,000
1836 N CRYSTAL LAKE DR APT 84...... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020........... $84,900
723 ORANGE COSMOS BLVD...........DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020......... $350,000
1910 BEECHWOOD............................. LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020........... $86,400
184 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.............DAVENPORT........... 6/1/2020..........$462,300
1836 N CRYSTAL LAKE DR APT 59...... LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020........... $88,000
LAKE ALFRED
3599 BOWDENS RD............................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020........... $90,000
172 CALADIUM AVE........................ LAKE ALFRED.......... 6/4/2020............$74,900
524 CRAWFORD ST............................ LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020........... $90,000
332 CALADIUM AVE....................... LAKE ALFRED.......... 6/8/2020........... $80,000
1428 COLONNADES CIR..................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020........... $95,000
LAKE WALES
5245 GREENBRIAR RD........................ LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020...........$110,000 410 BASSEDENA CIR........................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020............$117,500
10340 KISSIMMEE BLVD...................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020............ $51,000
601 BEECH AVE................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020.......... $125,000
119 EDGEWOOD BLVD......................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020............$55,000
2506 BROADWAY ST.......................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020...........$129,900
1121 BIG OAK DR................................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020........... $60,000
5719 GRANITE LN................................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $132,000
7 BEAVERKILL DR.............................LAKE WALES........... 6/1/2020........... $65,000
634 COTTAGE LN............................... LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020.......... $134,000
2041 CAROL PL.................................LAKE WALES.......... 6/3/2020........... $78,000
2210 WOODS TRL............................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $135,000
1309 LAKEVIEW RD..........................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020........... $85,000
2207 IVEY LN...................................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $135,000
306 W STUART AVE..........................LAKE WALES........... 6/1/2020........... $90,000
4919 POCAHONTAS LN...................... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020.......... $136,000
34 SUGAR PINE LOOP......................LAKE WALES.......... 6/6/2020........... $90,000
2706 HEMPSTEAD DR........................ LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020.......... $136,900
926 DUNKIRK PL..............................LAKE WALES.......... 6/2/2020.......... $133,000
4173 WINDING VINE DR...................... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020...........$137,000
715 HILLSIDE AVE..............................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020.......... $155,000
821 SUGAR PL..................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020.......... $139,900
412 E SEMINOLE AVE........................LAKE WALES.......... 6/2/2020.......... $163,000
204 EASTSIDE DR............................... LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020.......... $139,900
291 BEAR TRL....................................LAKE WALES.......... 6/8/2020.......... $170,000
11309 ROCKRIDGE RD........................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $145,000
3057 DUNMORE DR.........................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020...........$172,500
4185 SHADE TREE LN.......................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.......... $145,000
2859 ROSALIE LAKE RD....................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020........... $177,800
911 E VALENCIA ST.............................. LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.......... $152,000
548 LAKE SUZANNE DR....................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020.......... $178,000
2522 BROADWAY ST........................... LAKELAND.......... 6/9/2020.......... $156,000
790 CHELSEA WAY...........................LAKE WALES.......... 6/3/2020...........$181,000 4090 DINNER LAKE WAY..................LAKE WALES........ 5/29/2020..........$207,000
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 70 -
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Is it a good time to invest in Florida or just to invest overall? The Andreasen Group Monthly Newsletter
Well, let’s look at some facts… 1) The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged when it wrapped up its two-day meeting June 10, with U.S. central bankers voting unanimously to leave its benchmark borrowing rate in a target range of 0-0.25 percent, as low as officials want it to go. The Fed also signaled it’s prepared to keep borrowing costs pinned at near-zero through at least 2022. This suggests the financial system will need support long after the pandemic-induced downturn ends as it rebounds from the worst economic crisis in generations. 2) Existing-home sales dropped in April, continuing what is now a two-month skid in sales brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Omar Andreasen - CEO (407) 883.2989 omar@theandreasengroup.com
3) The National Bureau of Economic Research’s Business Cycle Dating Committee declared that the U.S. economy is in a recession — one of the fastest decisions in the history of the academic panel, which has the sole authority over declaring when downturns start and end.
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What has surprised me is that First-time buyers were responsible for 36% of sales in April, up from 34% in March 2020 and 32% in April 2019. Individual investors or second-home buyers, who account for many cash sales, purchased 10% of homes in April, down from 13% in March 2020 and from 16% in April 2019. All-cash sales accounted for 15% of transactions in April, down from 19% in March 2020 and 20% in April 2019. The super power states such as California and New York, have shown us that they are not “As Super” as we thought. Several states were able to show that they have a stronger economy and I believe we can all agree, Florida is definitely one of them! What makes Florida so attractive? Yes we have the attractions, beaches, weather, cost of living, no state tax and so on. I also believe that the builders learned from the latest recession and because of that I don’t expect housing prices to drop significantly. As we find during any time of crisis, we have a tremendous opportunity to evolve and emerge stronger and more efficient.
1928 BEECHWOOD DR....................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020.......... $159,000
6345 BEECHNUT DR........................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020..........$225,000
1245 EWELL RD................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020..........$160,000
3929 WHITE IBIS RD........................... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020.......... $225,200
761 COCKATOO LOOP........................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$164,000
8244 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR........ LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020..........$225,400
4 LOMA VERDE................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020.......... $165,000
5781 MALLARD DR.............................. LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020..........$226,000
3116 TROY AVE.................................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$168,000
2325 CASPIAN DR............................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020...........$227,900
2613 RALPH RD................................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020........... $171,000
2020 BLUE HIGHLANDS DR................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$228,500
3804 HAMPSTEAD LN........................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $175,000
1938 PRISTINE LOOP.......................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$229,000
1954 BRUCE ST................................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $176,000
4128 SALT SPRINGS LN....................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020..........$229,000
1324 VALLEY HILL E............................ LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020..........$180,000
4640 DEESON RD............................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $230,000
704 SCOTT LAKE VLG........................ LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020.......... $183,000
3535 SOUTHCREST BLVD................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020..........$234,900
1010 LOWRY AVE................................ LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020..........$184,000
4136 SALT SPRINGS LN....................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$235,000
568 GRASSLANDS VILLAGE CIR......... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$188,000
3926 WHITE IBIS RD........................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.......... $235,700
2216 BRANDY PL................................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $189,000
1799 ROCKY POINTE DR..................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020..........$236,200
7015 HONEYSUCKLE DR..................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $192,000
3806 LAURELWOOD LN..................... LAKELAND........ 5/30/2020..........$236,400
3512 MILNER DR.................................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $193,000
7335 IBIS DR........................................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $237,000
5744 CRAFTON DR............................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$194,000
2963 CREEKS CROSSING BLVD.......... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020.......... $237,900
7542 EASTVIEW PL............................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $195,000
1867 PRISTINE LOOP.......................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $238,000
2911 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS BLVD........ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $196,500
8175 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR......... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020..........$238,900
8152 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR......... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $204,800
3035 FORT SOCRUM VILLAGE BLVD.. LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020..........$239,900
233 BUCKHORN RUN......................... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020......... $205,000
7708 MERRILY WAY............................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $240,000
942 PEARLY RIDGE LN........................ LAKELAND.......... 6/2/2020..........$205,300
312 HANCOCK ST................................ LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020......... $240,000
3964 HAMPTON HILLS DR................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $209,000
3410 SUMMERWOOD WAY................ LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $240,000
909 SIKES BLVD.................................. LAKELAND.......... 6/2/2020.......... $210,000
5220 WOOD THRUSH WAY................ LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020......... $245,800
8211 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR.......... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020............ $211,100
7403 E FLORAL CIR............................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $248,000
3233 GARDNER RD............................. LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020.......... $212,000
3580 PRESCOTT LOOP....................... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020..........$253,000
8049 BROOKESHIRE DR.................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020...........$213,900
3219 BUCKINGHAM AVE..................... LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020..........$255,000
930 PEARLY RIDGE LN........................ LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020.......... $214,200
3872 LAURELWOOD LN...................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020..........$256,200
581 GRASSLANDS VILLAGE CIR.......... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $215,000
5249 WOOD THRUSH WAY................ LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020..........$259,500
5011 GREENBROOK LN....................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.......... $215,000
2208 COUNTRY BND.......................... LAKELAND.......... 6/2/2020......... $260,000
952 BLUE TIDE LN............................... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020.......... $216,600
825 ORANGE ST................................. LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $260,000
5823 YARBOROUGH LN..................... LAKELAND.......... 6/2/2020........... $217,000
1157 EDGEWOOD DR.......................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020..........$265,000
3921 WHITE IBIS RD............................ LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020........... $218,100
3842 LAURELWOOD LN..................... LAKELAND........ 5/30/2020......... $268,600
8203 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR........ LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020...........$219,500
4771 HIGHLANDS PLACE DR............... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$270,000
6725 BORDEAUX BLVD....................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020...........$219,500
6541 ALAMANDA HILLS CIR............... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020........... $274,100
931 POINT WAY................................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020......... $220,000
4033 SOLAMOR ST............................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $279,700
6520 CALUSA DR............................... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020......... $220,000
5803 BUCK RUN DR........................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.......... $281,900
748 GRASSLANDS VILLAGE CIR......... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $220,000
8022 DIAMOND CREEK LN................. LAKELAND.......... 6/8/2020.......... $282,700
4026 SUGAR CREEK LN...................... LAKELAND.......... 6/9/2020......... $220,000
4178 TIMBER VALLEY WAY................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$284,200
8223 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR......... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020..........$220,200
1462 CYPRESS VIEW LN...................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $285,000
1605 EWELL RD................................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$222,000
2608 DEER RACK LN.......................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $285,000
3829 HAMPTON HILLS DR.................. LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020..........$225,000
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 72 -
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1845 GIBSONIA GALLOWAY RD.......... LAKELAND.......... 6/4/2020.......... $287,500
2642 RUTLEDGE CT....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020.......... $163,800
211 BELMAR ST.................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $288,500
36 SAINT KITTS CIR.....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/8/2020.......... $175,000
2411 COLONEL FORD DR.................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020.......... $301,000
423 LANIER LN.............................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $179,000
1824 COMANCHE TRL........................ LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020......... $320,000
300 NW 22ND ST.........................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$180,000
4036 SOLAMOR ST............................ LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020............$331,100
3041 CYPRESS GARDENS RD.......WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020..........$180,000
308 LAKE HARRIS DR......................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $349,900
1288 HAINES DR..........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020.......... $180,500
1 GREYWICKE..................................... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020......... $350,000
268 OLEANDER ST......................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020.......... $182,000
1806 PINNACLE DR............................. LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020......... $350,000
66 DEENA WAY............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020.......... $185,000
5613 MYRTICE LN............................... LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020......... $360,000
198 OKALOOSA DR.....................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020...........$187,000
6545 EVERGREEN PARK DR............... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $385,000
256 BLACK SKIMMER LN.............WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020..........$190,000
2416 LAUREL GLEN DR....................... LAKELAND.......... 6/3/2020.........$440,000
2036 LAKERIDGE DR...................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020..........$194,000
3435 ASHLING DR.............................. LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020......... $449,000
118 LAKE SEARS DR......................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020......... $202,000
6671 CRESCENT LAKE DR................... LAKELAND........ 5/29/2020......... $450,000
602 SQUIRES GROVE DR.............WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020......... $209,000
5004 DORMAN RD............................. LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.........$460,000
1469 GRAND CAYMAN CIR..........WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020........... $211,000
1504 PARKER RD................................ LAKELAND........... 6/1/2020.........$468,000
4 GOLF VIEW...............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020.......... $215,000
6518 EAGLE VIEW LOOP..................... LAKELAND.......... 6/5/2020......... $479,000
4720 MAGNOLIA PRESERVE AVE.WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020.......... $215,000
WINTER HAVEN
3165 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020........... $217,000 174 GROVE BRANCH RD..............WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $218,000
516 AVENUE F..............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020........... $50,000
2328 ROSE BLVD..........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020...........$219,500
2500 AVENUE J............................WINTER HAVEN........... 6/1/2020............$55,000
3153 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020......... $220,000
471 LAS CRUCES..........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020............$72,000
3033 COUNTRY CLUB CIR...........WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$225,000
471 LAS CRUCES..........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020............$72,000
267 BLACK SKIMMER LN..............WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020..........$225,600
4033 ROLLING OAKS DR.............WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020............ $77,000
3180 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $227,000
925 AVENUE T.............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020........... $80,000
3161 ROYAL TERN DR...................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020..........$233,000
278 OAK ST..................................WINTER HAVEN........... 6/1/2020........... $85,000
118 ODIN DR.................................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020..........$235,000
700 MIRROR TER APT 311............WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020...........$107,000
4267 STAFFORD DR.....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/8/2020......... $236,000
176 BLACK SKIMMER LN..............WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020........... $116,900
543 HIGHFIN DR..........................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $241,000
203 BLACK SKIMMER LN.............WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020........... $116,900
5283 REID AVE.............................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020......... $246,000
243 BLACK SKIMMER LN.............WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020........... $116,900
114 BELMONT DR.........................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020......... $250,000
1971 13TH ST.................................WINTER HAVEN........... 6/1/2020.......... $120,000
3245 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$254,600
1011 MEDINAH DR........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020........... $121,000
3249 ROYAL TERN DR.................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$254,600
102 6TH ST JPV.............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020.......... $125,000
3253 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$254,600
327 AVENUE B..............................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $132,000
3257 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$254,600
2268 4TH ST................................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/9/2020...........$135,900
3297 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$254,600
99 VOLUSIA DR...........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020.......... $136,000
3301 ROYAL TERN DR..................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$254,600
1310 NW 28TH ST.........................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $143,000
4042 GREAT EGRET DR...............WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020.......... $257,000
1440 DOUGLAS CT......................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/3/2020.......... $145,000
130 GREENFIELD RD....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/2/2020..........$276,000
911 KERRY BLVD...........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020..........$148,000
1335 OAKMONT DR.....................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020..........$278,500
243 ROSA ROJO...........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020.......... $149,900
2312 CANNON TER.......................WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/5/2020..........$325,000
2417 AVENUE C............................WINTER HAVEN........ 5/29/2020...........$157,000
316 LOCHEN CIR..........................WINTER HAVEN........... 6/1/2020..........$475,000
3025 SILVERADO TER..................WINTER HAVEN........... 6/1/2020.......... $162,000
317 HAMILTON SHORES DR.........WINTER HAVEN.......... 6/4/2020......... $635,000
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