HAVEN November 2021 by HAVEN & LKLD Magazines

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November

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We are committed to serving seniors through out our community. Leave peace of mind to your children and grandchildren. Wills • Trusts • Probate • Elder Law • Real Estate Estate Planning • Business & Corporations www.lakewaleslaw.net \\ 863.676.6000 240 E. PARK AVE, LAKE WALES, FL 33853 7

grab your bike & roll with us Tune up that bike you bought over quarantine and ride with us! Meet at The Bike Shop, slow roll through town as a group and stop to watch the world-famous Cypress Gardens Ski Show on Lake Silver. After that, if you’d like you can ride back through town and meet at Grove Roots to hang out.

Saturday 3:30 November 20 249 3rd St SW, Winter Haven, FL | (863) 299-9907 |

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@slowrollskishow

Letter From the Editor

November

We’re giving back to our community by giving someone their smile back! We need your help, though!

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Nominate someone you know on our website at fornidental.com/thanks.

Hello! For November’s cover story, we visit three charities that are all in need of your help this holiday season. Whether it’s a cash donation or a donation of your time, these charities and more throughout the area are in need. Read our three-part cover story and find out how you can help your neighbors in Polk County. Or if you’re in need of help, we give the resources so that you can give your family and yourself a happy holiday. The Winter Haven Public Library gives us their November book selections. This month they focus on how we can become more kind, thoughtful, and giving. We also talk with Vakti Gallery. This is an online art gallery started by a young woman in Lakeland, the first of its kind here in Polk. Also, mark your calendars for December 4th at 8pm for the Blackberry Smoke performance at the Orange Blossom Revue! In the meantime, check out the feature about them in this issue. Blackberry Smoke tours globally playing Americana & modern Southern rock. This month, we visited BL Sandwich. Still in the “soft opening” phase, this Vietnamese banh mi restaurant has been incredibly popular. Find out how why this married couple from Lakeland decided to open their restaurant in Downtown Winter Haven. And go eat there, it’s delicious! With COVID numbers lowering, the calendar events have been rising! There are so many events happening in November that our “Top Ten” lists should maybe be the “Top Twenty.” If you have an event in December and would like to add it to the calendar section, just send me the details. Continue to tag your Facebook and Instagram pics with #kindachill and you might find them in the next issue. Until then, flip to the back and see if you recognize anyone! I hope you all have a very nice Thanksgiving! I’m incredibly thankful for all of you that pick up the magazine every month and for all of our advertisers that make it possible. Our little team here is small but mighty and I’m grateful every day for all of them! They make the magazine come alive each month.

Your Smile is Our Work of Art

Amy Sexson Editor/Partner Haven & LKLD Magazines Destroyer Media

(863) 676-6021 701 State Rd. 60 East • Lake Wales ForniDental.com

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N O V E M B E R

CONTENTS

TOYS FOR TOTS...........................................................22 GRACE GIVING............................................................ 26 SALVATION ARMY......................................................30 BANH MI? OH MY!..................................................... 36 VAKTI GALLERY........................................................... 42 BLACKBERRY SMOKE...............................................44 CHECK ME OUT ;)......................................................46 9.......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 12.................................................................LOCAL NEWS 14................................................................................TOP 10 40..................................................................... COCKTAIL 48....................................................................CALENDAR 73...............................................................SOLD HOMES 85................................................................ #KINDACHILL

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NOVEMBER 2021 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 2 Publisher Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com Ad Director Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com Editor & Photographer Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com Managing Editor & Writer Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com Art & Production Manager Steven Maynard steven@destroyermedia.com Social Media Coordinator Angela Rosado angela@destroyermedia.com Account Representative Jessica Parker jessica@destroyermedia.com Graphic Designer Ella Sexson ella@destroyermedia.com HAVEN is published twelve times a year by Destroyer Media & Marketing. Haven distributes 16,100 copies a month with 8,600 mailed to homes and 7,500 copies available at select locations throughout east Polk County.

For advertising information please contact: christine@destroyermedia.com To submit to our calendar: amy@destroyermedia.com Office:

PO Box 1607, Winter Haven, Florida 33881 863-225-8658

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

LOCAL NEWS

PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEGOLAND!

$9.4M INFRASTRUCTURE ADVENTHEALTH & BOND FUNDS

Amy Heiser-Meyers is the principal at Horizons Elementary. Polk County Public Schools’ announced her as the Principal of the Year for 2021-22. Heiser-Meyers is a PCPS graduate (Auburndale High) and has worked for the district for the past 24 years, serving at Horizons Elementary since 2013. Heiser-Meyers is noted for her support of Horizons’ teachers, and involving them in decisions that impact student learning. She also makes extra effort to keep families and business partners engaged with the school. As PCPS’ Principal of the Year, Heiser-Myers will serve as the district’s nominee for the Florida Department of Education’s annual statewide Principal of the Year award. Congratulations!

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort celebrated its 10th birthday on October 15th with brick-tastic fanfare! They celebrated the future with big announcements coming to the resort in 2022 including the new ride, Pirate River Quest. The Mayor of Winter Haven, Brad Dantzler announced that October 15th would officially be LEGOLAND Day in Winter Haven. The new LEGOLAND® Story shows how the parks were built, brick by brick. LEGO® history comes to life with playful, photo-worthy displays, including an original ride vehicle from Cypress Gardens’ Triple Hurricane attraction.

During a media event held Oct.11th at the City of Winter Haven Commission chamber, Governor Ron DeSantis, along with Secretary of the Department of Economic Opportunity Dane Eagle, Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin Thibault and Enterprise Florida Secretary of Commerce Jamal Sowell, announced that Winter Haven would be receiving $9.4M in infrastructure funds, focused on the area directly adjacent to the CSX Intermodal Logistics Center. This award is a direct result of a collaboratively written grant application by the Department of Economic Opportunity & Community Investment and the Winter Haven Economic Development Council and advocating directly with the Governor’s office.

AdventHealth and Bond Clinic are forming an affiliation that will bring greater access to primary care and specialty options to Polk County residents, with a common goal of providing whole-person care that is easy-to-navigate and convenient for all patients. Polk County continues to rapidly grow – outpacing both the state and nation with a 20% increase in the past 10 years. Together, AdventHealth and Bond Clinic will recruit dozens of physicians over the next five years in a variety of specialties. Under the affiliation, AdventHealth and Bond Clinic will coordinate to meet the growing demand for primary care and specialty providers in the Polk market. Together they will develop innovative, value-based care models designed to deliver the highest level of quality care to Polk County residents.

PEPPA PIG TO OPEN

FLORIDA POLY

THE BANKER’S CUP

MARGARITAVILLE IN POLK

The Peppa Pig Theme Park is set to open February 24, 2022. Day tickets, Annual Passes and Vacation Packages are now on sale for families. Six rides, six themed playscapes, a water play area, and even more oinktastic experiences have been revealed for the World’s First Peppa Pig Theme Park. These all-new attractions will create an unforgettable day of adventure at the new standalone theme park just steps away from LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Designed to be the ultimate day for little ones, the new theme park combines interactive rides and themed playgrounds with character shows and an indoor cinema for quieter moments.

Florida Polytechnic University is the number one public college in the South in the U.S. News & World Report’s recent rankings, as well as climbing to become the number 26 public engineering college without a Ph.D. in the nation. Dr. Randy K. Avent, president of Florida Polytechnic University, has been recognized as one of Florida’s most influential business leaders for the third consecutive year by Florida Trend Magazine. The publication released its annual Florida 500 list highlighting the state’s top leaders in several economic sectors. The University also is experiencing significant growth. The fall 2021 class of incoming students is the largest in Florida Poly’s history.

The Banker’s Cup is Winter Haven, Florida’s highest honor. It is presented by the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce and is awarded to one male and one female recipient each year. This is the 95th time the award has been bestowed. Congratulations to Mrs. Earnestine Mason Davis and Mr. Harry “Hap” Hazelwood. Mrs. Davis was recognized for work over 6 decades in civil rights and advocacy to ensure all citizens are treated fairly and equally. She also runs the food distribution program of the Concern Citizens of Winter Haven amongst many other areas of service. Mr. Hazelwood was recognized for his work over 3 decades in non-profits helping them to be stronger through financial oversight and fundraising. He is actively involved in Habitat for Humanity of East Polk, Relay for Life/American Cancer Society, Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, Meals on Wheels of Polk County, TriCounty Human Services, and more.

The Cabana Club Resort will, in early 2022, become Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale, bringing the Margaritaville brand’s iconic experiences, fun, and escapism to Polk County. The addition of the lifestyle brand expands on the economic growth currently being enjoyed in the Auburndale area. In addition to the soon-to-be championship stadium in the Lake Myrtle Sports Park, on the other side of the lake, near the Elite Cable Park, a championship competition water ski lake will soon be completed. Less than five miles away there is also a recently opened Amazon Warehouse, and a revitalized downtown Auburndale. Currently, Cabana Club offers more than 175 RV and super premium RV sites, a resort pool, Tiki Bar, entertainment stage, putting course, playground, dog parks, covered pickleball courts, beach volleyball courts, an arcade, and more.

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FLEA & FARMERS MARKET

CELEBRITY LIP SYNC BATTLE

Every Thursday from 9am-2pm at the Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center in Davenport. This weekly Flea and Farmers Market will have a variety of vendors offering fresh local produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, home goods, and more. The CFVIC is open from 8am-5pm, seven days a week (excluding major holidays). visitcentralflorida.org

Nov. 4, 6pm at the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Features six local celebrities, battling against each other through two rounds of lip sync performances! The event is a fundraiser benefiting public education in Winter Haven through contributions to The Winter Haven Public Education Partnership and Cypress Junction Montessori. More info on FB @winterhavenpep.

Nov. 6, 9am-4pm at Munn Park in Lakeland. Art Crawl is a FREE festival featuring over 50 local artists selling artwork and competing for prizes alongside live music, performances, and art demonstrations! Art Crawl is designed to spotlight emerging artists, performers, other area art organizations, and grass-root art movements that may not fit the common tradition of art festivals in the area. Artcrawlfl.com

WINE, CHOCOLATE & CHEESE

SPCA SILVER PAWS

Nov. 12, 5:30-8:30pm in Downtown Winter Haven. Over 30 businesses will host a wine & chocolate or a wine & cheese pairing. Your Tasting Passport will take you from business to business to sample each of the combinations! Live music on the street makes for a great night to explore Downtown with friends. Tasting Passport tickets can be purchased online or at the event (unless sold out). Mainstreetwh.com

Nov. 13, 6pm at the Hilton Garden Inn Lakeland. SPCA Florida invites you to an evening of entertainment and joy with music, a delicious dinner, life-saving heroes, live drawing of an exciting raffle, silent auction, live auction with Marty Higgenbotham, and more surprises. Celebrity Guests: Polk County Sheriff, Grady Judd. Purchase tickets in advance at e.givesmart.com/events/niz/

CATTLE BARON’S BOOTLEGGER BALL Nov. 6, 6pm at Bunch Ranch. The American Cancer Society Polk County Cattle Baron’s Ball is a one-of-a-kind evening, featuring great food, dancing, an auction, and much more. With your support, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against cancer. Find more info on their FB @cattlebaronsballpolk.

POSH PURSE PARTY

ANGELS AMONG US

SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Nov. 16, 5:30-8pm at Venue 650. Join Girls Inc. of Winter Haven for their annual event. Ticket includes wonderful food, great auction items, and a cash bar. This event will sell out! Start your holiday shopping off right and help Girls Inc. of Winter Haven further its mission of inspiring all girls to be STRONG, SMART & BOLD! Purchase tickets at girlsincwinterhaven.org

Nov. 20, 3:30pm at The Bike Shop of Winter Haven. Bring your bike and as a group “slow roll” through Downtown Winter Haven, stop at Lake Silver to watch the worldfamous Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team perform and then head back to Grove Roots to hang out! Free & family-friendly. ALL levels of experience welcome, this is fun not a competition. More info on FB @slowrollskishow

Nov. 27. First created in 2010, it’s always the Saturday after Thanksgiving to encourage people to shop small and bring more holiday shopping to local, small businesses. Check your favorite local stores & boutiques to see how they will be celebrating. Shopping at a family-owned shop or buying something handmade helps to promote more vibrant communities.

Pace Polk’s annual Posh Purse Party is from Nov. 9-11. This virtual event will have new purses and experiences in the silent auction. Tickets are only $10, register and receive instructions about when and where you can start bidding on purses and auction items. Proceeds benefit Pace Center for Girls. ppp21.givesmart.com

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

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CHRISTMAS MY WAY

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Nov. 6, 8am-10pm in various locations around Downtown Winter Garden celebrating the city’s 118-years. Family-friendly fun including a donut 5k, lawn games, art show, fall-themed activities, five stages of entertainment, tree walking tour, and more. Find details at downtownwg.com.

Nov. 11, 7-9pm at the Central Florida Zoo. Enjoy a special evening with wine and hors d’oeuvres while painting an animal portrait. Art instructors will guide you to create your own masterpiece as you meet live animals up close. Supplies will be provided. Space is limited. Must be 21 years or older. Register in advance at centralfloridazoo.org.

Various days beginning Nov. 12 at the Winter Park Playhouse. Ring in the holidays with classic Sinatra tunes to seasonal favorites Rat Pack Style. This show is complete with 40 popular hits including ‘Fly Me to the Moon,’ ‘That’s Life,’ ‘New York, New York,’ ‘Mistletoe and Holly,’ The Christmas Song,’ ‘Silver Bells,’ ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ & many more! Purchase tickets in advance at cityofwinterpark.org

Nov. 13 & 14 at the Central Florida Fairgrounds. Maker Faire is a gathering of curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, and projects. A family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. Purchase tickets at makerfaireorlando.com.

FESTIVAL OF TREES

NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON

DRAWN TO LIFE

TURKEY TROT 5K

Nov. 13-21 open daily from 10am5pm at the Orlando Musuem of Art. Opening Night Tree Lighting and Gala is Nov. 12 from 6-10pm. Breakfast with Santa is on Nov. 13 & 20. The Festival of Trees showcases magical displays of designer-decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, gingerbread creations, and beautiful holiday vignettes. Must purchase tickets in advance at omart.org/events/festival_of_trees/

Nov. 17, 7:30pm at the Dr. Phillips Center. In his “Delusions of Space Enthusiasts” illustrated talk, Neil deGrasse Tyson will explore the perennial mismatch between collective expectations of where we should be in space by now and the geopolitical, cultural, and economic realities that limit it. Purchase tickets at drphillipscenter.org.

Cirque du Soleil’s new show opening Nov. 18 at Disney Springs. The art of classic Disney animation is reinterpreted through Cirque du Soleil’s innovative acrobatic performances, choreography, and eclectic costuming alongside all-new Disney animation and an original score inspired by timeless Disney music. Purchase tickets in advance at cirquedusoleil.com.

Nov. 25, 8am. A Thanksgiving tradition now in its 32nd year, meet at Lake Eola as over 4,000 runners, joggers, and walkers, many dressed in full costumes or Thanksgiving-themed hats hit the course for a morning of fun to raise money for Meals on Wheels and other Seniors First programs. Register in advance at trackshack.com/event/240.

CLARE & THE CHOCOLATE NUTCRACKER

Nov. 5 from 2-6pm and Nov. 6 from 8am-4pm at the Mead Botanical Gardens. An annual plant sale featuring high-quality plant vendors and exhibitors, kid’s activities, live music, food trucks, beer garden, and more! Admission and parking are free. Shoppers will find a wide selection of annuals, perennials, house plants, native plants, medicinal plants, and more. 407-622-6323. Meadgarden.org

WINTER GARDEN FALL HERITAGE & MUSIC FESTIVAL

WILD ART & WINE

Nov. 27, 7pm at the Dr. Phillips Center. Watch Clare as she travels with the Chocolate Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy on an adventure through various cultures and magical lands to their destination, the Kingdom of Toys. Their journey is filled with dances of ballet, jazz, hip hop, and gospel. Purchase tickets in advance at drphillipscenter.org.

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

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Catch the 2021 Stanley Cup Champions play 8 times in November at the Amalie Arena. The Bolts play the Capitals, Hurricanes, Panthers, Islanders, Devils, Wild, Flyers, and the Kraken. Check the website for additional offers & promotions. Tickets available in most price ranges, purchase in advance at nhl.com/lightning.

“The Doors: Live At The Bowl ’68 Special Edition” (1968) Rated R will play Nov. 4, 7pm at the Tampa Theatre. On July 5th, 1968, The Doors lit up the stage of the Hollywood Bowl with a legendary performance that is widely considered to be the band’s finest captured on film. This special edition film has been remastered. Purchase tickets in advance atTampatheatre.org.

Nov. 5, 6-9pm at MOSI in Tampa. Science fans ages 18+ use your knowledge of physics and engineering at the Science After Dark: Carnival of Games event. Create simple machines that will bring you to victory. Enjoy light appetizers, beer & wine samplings, Play Beat Saber using the Oculus Rift, enjoy adult liquid nitrogen ice cream, interactive labs, and more! Purchase tickets at mosi.org.

Nov. 12-14. The 3-day festival is anchored by distance running events Regenexx Half Marathon, Rollin’ Oats 10K, Outback 5K, 3 Challenges & Humana Kids Races. Also features live music, craft beer from Green Bench, hard seltzer from 3 Daughters, Mermosa wines, Outback Steakhouse and healthy organics from Rollin’ Oats Market & Cafe. More information and registration at stpeterunfest.org.

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FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Nov. 18, 6-8pm at Armature Works in Tampa. Join The Roaming Petal to build the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. Sip wine and have fun creating while experts walk you through building a beautiful fall bouquet that you can keep for yourself or give as a gift. Please register in advance at armatureworks.com.

Nov. 20 & 21 10am-5pm at the Coliseum in St. Pete. Presented by the Tampa Bay Times. Local vendors will be offering everything you need to get in the holiday spirit. Start your holiday shopping early with unique handmade gifts, holiday decor, food, apparel, accessories, and more! Free admission. tampabay.com/expos/ holiday-market/

Nov. 20, 6pm at Curtis Hixon Park. An elegant outdoor community dinner to support eMerge Career Collaborative, MacDonald Training Center’s innovative post-secondary vocational education opportunity for people with disabilities. This is a night of gratitude and support for people with disabilities. Purchase tickets in advance, VIP available for additional charge at macdonaldcenter.org.

Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village goes from Nov. 25 - Dec. 26 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Features a million lights, 2-mile drivethrough holiday light display with a walking route to Santa’s Village. Displays are themed to Florida and traditional winter holidays representing Christmas, Hanukkah, & Kwanzaa. Purchase tickets at hillsboroughcountyfair. com/festival-of-lights.

Nov. 30, 7pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. An all new production of the classic Charles Dickens’ tale. This new adaptation has a heavy dose of humor with the music of 26 traditional carols woven throughout the show. It’s the perfect way to begin the holiday season. Purchase tickets in advance, pre-show party packages available at rutheckerdhall.com.

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

Nov. 13, 10am-6pm at the Tampa Convention Center. This traveling event showcases all things weird. Vendors will have taxidermy, preserved specimens, original artwork, horror/halloween inspired pieces, antiques, handcrafted oddities, creepy clothing, and more. odditiesandcuriositiesexpo.com

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

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Have you ever considered owning your own business, but don't know if you have what it takes? At the Chamber we believe immense opportunity is unlocked when one takes the leap into entrepreneurship – if it's right for them. Unlock your inner Boss Brain through a free-online book club with Tra Williams, Winter Haven entrepreneur and author of Boss Brain: Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Instincts. If you sign-up through the Chamber, you'll get access to the online book club, receive a free copy of the book and have access to a special event with the author. Sign-up at winterhavenchamber.com

Toys for Tots

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WORDS Tara Crutchfield

On September 17, at the Marines Toys for Tots National Training Conference in Washington, D.C., David Waller, Polk County coordinator, accepted the Coordinator of the Year for Civilian Volunteer Campaigns. Polk County Toys for Tots was recognized as well for having the top campaign of 2020. Waller, a retired law enforcement officer of 36 years, appreciates the recognition but says it’s the campaign that won. “It’s all the volunteers that make it happen,” he said.

the program to that of an LCO. “It is a community effort,” he said. “We need the community’s help, the community to come volunteer, the community to donate toys – so that the community prospers.” “What we’ve done the last few years is to continue to foster community support – businesses, volunteers, clubs, government agencies,” said the Polk County coordinator. “We have a fantastic partnership with all of our law enforcement, and the sheriff is one of our biggest supporters.”

Toys for Tots began in 1947 with Diane Hendricks, wife of Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks. That year, under his wife’s instruction, to start an organization serving children in need, Major Hendricks and the Marines in his reserve unit collected and distributed 5,000 toys. Toys for Tots became a national community action program of Marine Reserve Sites in 1948. Hendricks, who served as a Director of Public Relations at Warner Brother Studios, enlisted the help of many of his celebrity friends for the program, including Walt Disney, who designed the organization’s first poster, now their logo. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity in 1991. Today, the organization distributes an average of 18 million toys to 7 million children, according to their website.

Local businesses support the charity through donations, offering storage trailers for toy inventory, warehouse space for campaign operations, and becoming toy drop-off locations. Some 450 donation boxes are posted in business around the county, waiting to be filled to the brim with new toys. Waller named LEGOLAND, Publix Supermarkets, Publix Charities, Saddle Creek Logistics, Rooms to Go, CWI Logistics, Inc., and Central Tavern (part of the Linksters and Paddy Wagon Pub chain) as but a few of their invaluable campaign supporters. The program is volunteer-driven, with a core group of between 20 and 30 volunteers serving throughout the year. That number climbs to over 250 during the holidays, especially on distribution day. Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys to provide nonprofits and families in need over the holidays. Families and nonprofits apply online. Donated toys at their Auburndale warehouse are bagged and taken to distribution spots around the county. The family receives an email with details about when and where to pick up their toys, volunteers give them their items, and they are on their way to light up the holidays for a little one that might not have otherwise received a gift on Christmas morning.

After retiring from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, David Waller started his own business, Waller Pavers. He eventually sold the business, grew bored with retirement, and looked for another endeavor to fill his time. “Being a cop back in the day, I worked on Christmas mornings, and you could tell a kid that got a toy from a kid that didn’t get a toy,” said Waller. “I was familiar with Toys for Tots because we had just helped get them some toys, but I really didn’t understand how it worked.” He read a local newspaper article seeking help to run the program and reached out. In 2016 he interviewed with former Polk County Toys for Tots coordinator Dorothy Dunlap and longtime volunteer George Overstreet who agreed Waller was a fit for the nonprofit. He began volunteering at the warehouse that Thanksgiving to learn the ropes and was named coordinator the following year.

Contests among high schools and government agencies have proven a reliable driver for donations. The first challenge involved area high schools competing to raise the most toys. Mulberry High School won three years running, with Lake Region High School taking the top spot last year. Waller said, “My goal was to get the high school students to learn a little bit about those less fortunate than themselves, learn about helping others, a little comradery, leadership, and competition.”

A COMMUNITY EFFORT According to Waller, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, headquartered in Triangle, Virginia, has approximately 813 programs throughout the United States. About 165 of those campaigns are run by actual Marines, including one in Tampa and Orlando. The Polk County Toys for Tots campaign is an LCO, or Local Community Organization made up of dedicated, unpaid volunteers. Since he took over as coordinator in 2016, Waller has focused on changing community perception of

For years, the Polk County campaign spent donated funds to purchase batteries to include with toys. Waller had an idea. “I’m having to spend people’s donated money on batteries, and I don’t want to do that. I want to spend that money on toys,” he said. Thus the Battery Bucket Challenge in which the community can donate batteries to Toys for Tots was born, saving them hundreds of dollars on batteries over the last two years. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 -

THE 2020 CAMPAIGN

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

At the beginning of 2020, Waller and his team met to discuss whether or not they would carry on with a campaign amid the pandemic. “Our decision, and one that we strongly believed in, is we were going to have a campaign.” They continued with the 2020 Polk County Toys for Tots Campaign and adjusted as needed. For volunteers unable to work in the warehouse, Waller and his team found ways to keep them involved with the program from home with tasks like putting labels on tags.

Registration for this year’s Polk County Toys for Tots campaign opened on October 11. Asked how 2021 is shaping up thus far, Waller said, “We’ve been preparing upfront.” To mitigate any toy shortages or shipping bottlenecks, Waller and his team began purchasing toys in June – fishing poles, dollhouses, books, bikes, and the like. Waller encourages the community to donate earlier in the holiday season so that toys can be prepared for their December 11 distribution day. A list of drop-off sites is available on the Toys for Tots website listed below. On the website, families and nonprofits can also apply for toys, businesses can sign up to be a toy drop box location, or folks can sign up to volunteer. Waller says volunteers are their most significant need at the moment, with a particular need for route drivers to deliver donation boxes and service them as they fill up.

The 2020 campaign didn’t only manage to get by and meet needs; it thrived thanks to Waller, Toys for Tots volunteers, and the community at large. Through their signature donation boxes and community challenges, the Polk County Toys for Tots campaign distributed 57,716 toys to just under 15,000 children and raised over $70,000 in monetary donations. “While we are under the foundation, every penny that gets donated to our campaign is spent on our campaign. It does not go to pay a foundation salary. It doesn’t pay a salary for any of us. Every penny stays right here in Polk County,” Waller said. “Anytime you donate money to an organization, you want it to stay locally, and we’re very proud of that.” This community support and generosity, paired with creative challenges and campaign adjustments surrounding the pandemic, earned the Polk County Toys for Tots team the designation of the top campaign for 2020 and David Waller, Coordinator of the Year for Civilian Volunteer Campaigns.

“It’s a fantastic program for our community. I cannot say enough about the support that we get from the community, from law enforcement, particularly our sheriff,” the Polk County Toys for Tots coordinator said. As we concluded our interview, Waller offered a final sentiment, “Every child deserves a Christmas.” Marines Toys for Tots toysfortotsusa.org FB @PolkCountyToysForTots (863) 292-8687

David Cooper, Vice President of Operations for the Toys for Tots Foundation, Kim Waller, David Waller

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Grace Giving for KidsPACK

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WORDS Tara Crutchfield

A year since its founding, Facebook group Grace Giving for KidsPACK is just shy of 500 members. Its founder and administrator, Lakeland real estate agent Debbie Miller was recently presented with the 2021 Lakeland Realtors Good Neighbor Award. She says it’s the Grace Giving group that earned it, expressing gratitude for members’ unending support totaling thousands of dollars of in-kind food donations to the Lakeland charity, kidsPACK. “When I started Grace Giving, I really believed it was something that had a positive impact for everybody. Not only the group to feed hungry kids, but I think it gave people a good feeling that there’s something positive in the world,” said Miller.

hunger in the community, she remembers thinking, “Who knew that there are this many hungry kids in our community? If you don’t feed the kids, they can’t learn, they can’t focus, and they’re the future of our country. We’ve got to take care of these kids.” Miller ramped up her volunteering efforts amid the coronavirus pandemic when kidsPACK struggled to secure items in bulk to put into their packs. When we spoke with kidsPACK Executive Director Patty Strickland and Program Manager Amy Royal in August 2020, they were dealing with the temporary loss of 17 packing facilities. The most pressing issue for the Lakeland nonprofit, however, was a suspension of buying power. The nonprofit would typically buy in bulk but no longer could. They scoured Publix, Walmart, Sam’s Club – anywhere they could find bulk items. “Instead of a child’s lunch being $6, it went to being $9.20,” said Strickland last August. They reached out to the community for financial and purchasing help, requesting folks pick up ten cans of Chef Boyardee, Pop-Tarts, or applesauce when they were grocery shopping. “Our community stepped up,” Strickland said.

KidsPACK is a nonprofit organization that was started in 2011 by Randy Browning. It operates with the sole mission to feed homeless or under-served students when school is not in session. By working directly with teacher liaisons in schools throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties, kidsPACK fills the gap for disadvantaged children by providing discrete backpacks with enough food for three meals a day over the weekends. The food in each pack is child-centric and easy to open and prepare as many of the kids they serve do not have access to running water or a microwave. “I’ve been working with kidsPACK since they started, volunteering with them,” said Debbie Miller, who serves as the auction chair for the Gone Country for kidsPACK fundraising event.

Miller said, “They were having a hard time getting Chef Boyardee bulk which is the staple food on the kidsPACK every week; there’s two of them on each child’s pack.” She recalled seeing a Facebook group in which members would choose another member at random and send them a gift. Brainstorming ways to help kidsPACK, she wondered if the model could work towards the charity’s advantage. Over coffee with a friend, she decided she would start her group, Grace Giving for KidsPACK. Miller went home that afternoon in August 2020, started the group, and began inviting friends to join.

Food insecurity and child hunger in the community may seem unfathomable if you or someone you know directly has never been without food. Miller says this is an invisible problem desperately in need of attention and action. When kidsPACK founder Randy Browning first spoke with Miller about child

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The group took off with membership and donations. “We had a 4000 [Chef Boyardee] cup goal for the quarter, from August to the end of the year, and we got 4000 cups in a couple of weeks,” said Miller. “Then we set a higher goal to get 16,000 cups, and guess what – we exceed that by December 31, 2020.” A month after creating the group, Miller posted in Grace Giving for KidsPACK that they had already delivered over 6,300 cups of Chef Boyardee to KidsPACK. “We are 9,674 cups away from our 12,000 cups by 12/25/2020. All of you are so awesome, and we are so grateful you are part of this Grace Giving for KidsPACK. Blessings to all,” the September 25, 2020 post read. Awesome indeed. By the end of that October, they had collectively given over $21K in-kind food to kidsPACK, and by November 9, 2020, they were approaching a new goal of 16,000 cups of Chef Boyardee, which they would go on to surpass. This year Grace Giving for KidsPACK set quarterly goals and has exceeded them all. The most recent in-kind food figure was reported on September 23, 2020. Miller wrote in part, “I wanted to let everyone know since I created Grace Giving for KidsPACK on Facebook on August 25, 2020, during the pandemic, our group and all the donors have given nearly $40,000 in-kind food to hungry kids in our community, and we are helping to control hunger. We have met and exceeded each goal each quarter because of all of you. There are not adequate words to express my gratitude to each and every one of you who is a part of this amazing group of individuals in our community. Our group is making a significant impact on helping to control hunger in our Elementary Schools. I want to personally thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart.” Miller encourages everyone to spread awareness of childhood hunger and the kidsPACK mission to friends, colleagues, churches, and loved ones. She quoted Mother Teresa, “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” Donating one box of Pop-Tarts, one cup of Chef Boyardee, one fruit cup is a step toward eliminating food insecurity and child hunger in the community. “We want them to be aware that there are people out here that will help you – there is help. […] Our goal is to eventually conquer hunger in our county,” Miller said. Bridge the gap of food insecurity in Polk County by sponsoring a child through kidsPACK. For $300 a year, or $25 monthly, you can feed a child in our community for an entire year. Ask your friends, coworkers, family, and church to join you! Grace Giving’s current fourth-quarter goal is to donate 10,000 packs of crackers by the end of the year. Consider joining Grace Giving for KidsPACK on Facebook to make a difference in the lives of local under-served children. To donate, use the Amazon link listed under ‘Announcements’ in the group to order and ship to an approved address or order from Sam’s Club with Debbie Miller listed as the pick-up person. Donations can also be dropped off at United Title Group located at 2000 E Edgewood Dr., Suite 107, Lakeland, FL, 33803. Grace Giving For KidsPACK administrator Debbie Miller can be reached at (863) 581-7817. Miller noted a quote in the group’s ‘About’ section to drive her point home. “Child hunger is a significant issue that requires active participation to combat its effects on our child population. By our Grace, we can help out kidsPACK by putting into perspective the prevalence of child hunger in our county and community.” FB: Grace Giving For KidsPACK Debbie Miller (863) 581-7817 kidsPACK 3725 Frontage Rd N #1, Lakeland (863) 272-7927 FB @KidsPACKinc IG @kidspackinc www.kidspack.org havenmagazines.com

The Salvation Army

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WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Each month, hundreds of local families visit the Social Services office and Food Pantry for The Salvation Army of East Polk County. The organization offers social services, including financial assistance with rent, food distribution, and operates a homeless shelter. We met with Diana Woodhead, Social Services Director for The Salvation Army Winter Haven Offices serving East Polk County, and Commanding Officer Captain Dominic Blanford to discuss what they do and how the community can help.

through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm, with exceptions for illness and inclement weather. “We can help the moms that have children of daycare age get daycare through the Early Learning Coalition. We work closely with The Hearth Project, which is part of the Polk County School Board that specifically caters to homeless families with children,” said Woodhead. The shelter’s caseworker, Dreamalee Lamberti, works closely with its tenets. Woodhead said of Lamberti, “She’s got a lot of knowledge that she can use to help the ladies. She has applied herself since she’s been here to working individually with every person we have in the shelter to put them on the right path and give direction.”

SOCIAL SERVICES AND HOMELESS SHELTER The organization works with several grants to provide this assistance, including the Tampa Electric Company Share program. The Salvation Army provides a food pantry for families in need. “Once a week, we provide food to families in our community. It can be anywhere from 50 to 100 families that come in a day depending on the time of month,” said Diana Woodhead.

THE ANGEL TREE PROGRAM AND RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN Corps Officers for Salvation Army of East Polk County, Captains Dominic and Ivelisse Blanford took leadership in Winter Haven last year. “My wife and I have both worked with the Salvation Army for over ten years now,” said Dominic Blanford. The two met at “Camp Keystone,” The Salvation Army’s Camp in Starke, Florida, and married in 2010. The Blanfords are both ordained ministers for The Salvation Army and pastor at its local church.

The organization stocks its food pantry with donations from many sources, like Feeding Tampa Bay, part of Feeding America, a nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger. Every week, The Salvation Army picks up meat close to its expiration date that has been frozen, produce nearing its sell-by date, and items with damaged packaging from Harveys Supermarket, Save A Lot, and ALDI Grocery Store.

With the help of longtime staff and volunteers, including social services director, Diana Woodhead who has been with The Salvation Army for over twenty years, Blanford said, “Our goal is to enlighten the community of what we do and what they can do to help support the cause.”

The faith-based food pantry receives leftover items from the Auburndale and Winter Haven Wawa through the Harvest Program. Last month they received nearly 4,000 items from donuts to breakfast sandwiches. Once a month, they pick up at least four pallets of damaged items from a Publix warehouse in Lakeland and receive milk, eggs, cheese, butter, and dry goods through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). Donated food is stored and sorted in their on-site warehouse and then shelved and packed by volunteers in a pantry across the hall to be picked up by families in need each Wednesday. In the kitchen, a cook prepares community meals every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. “We feed anyone who comes – no questions asked. We just take a first name to log the meal,” said Woodhead.

In addition to the shelter, food pantry, and social services, The Salvation Army has a number of programs benefiting the underserved in our community. The Salvation Army Family Store is a volunteer-run thrift store where folks often donate second-hand clothes and household items. Blanford notes that all proceeds earned at The Family Store stay local, supporting their other programs. A popular program benefiting families who can’t afford Christmas gifts is the Angel Tree Program. “The Angel Tree Program has been in existence since the 80s,” Blanford said. “It gives individuals, families, organizations, and businesses the opportunity to adopt Angels.” According to saangeltree.org, “Once a child or senior adult has been registered and accepted as an Angel, their Christmas wish list is shared with donors in your community who purchase gifts of new clothing and toys. The gifts are distributed to the family to place under their family Christmas tree.”

The number of families in need fluctuates. In September, 287 cases or 1,013 people utilized their food pantry, shelter, and rent/ utility assistance services. That doesn’t include the weekly meals they serve, 473 in the same month. These numbers often swell around the holidays. The back of the facility houses their women and children’s shelter with dorms for single women, a handicapped-accessible dorm, and one for mothers with children. The shelter has a children’s playroom, dining hall, television area, bathrooms and showers, and a laundry room. The shelter is closed Monday

Distribution of gifts will be done at their administration and worship center on December 15 as a drive-through. ‘Angel’ families can drive up, and volunteers will load the gifts into their vehicles. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 32 -

“We like to follow up with those families too,” Blanford said. “We like to check on them and see how they’re doing. They aren’t just numbers to us – they’re people. Of course, we’re a religious organization, and they’re God’s children. We want to ensure they’re not statistics to us.” The Salvation Army Commanding Officer noted this is where they can connect families with their other services if needed. The Angel Tree Program is especially meaningful to Blanford. Growing up in Orlando, he remembers one Christmas when things were a little tight for his family, and his mother applied for the Angel Tree Program. “Now I have the opportunity to be on the other side of it and participate in helping families,” he said. And of course, who hasn’t seen volunteers ringing the bell outside of grocery stores around the holidays? The Salvation Army is currently gearing up for their signature Red Kettle Campaign. East Polk County has around 20 Publix and Walmart red kettle locations across Winter Haven, Auburndale, Lake Wales, Haines City, and Davenport. Donations made in East Polk stay here to support their programs, says Blanford. “It doesn’t go to Washington D.C. or Los Angeles. It stays in your local community.” “We like to encourage individuals, families, businesses, civic clubs, schools, churches – anyone who’s able to come out for a couple of hours – to take a couple of shifts,” he said. “We have great support here in this community.” This year, the East Polk Red Kettle Campaign will go from November 27 through December 24, daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Those interested in volunteering for the Red Kettle Campaign can sign up at www. registertoring.com. Helping hands are always needed both during the holidays and the day-to-day operations of the food pantry and Family Store. “We’re in great need of volunteers,” said Blanford. “COVID has played a role in our decrease in volunteers.” The Salvation Army Captain understands the concerns with COVID and assures they provide gloves and take necessary precautions to keep volunteers safe.

Dominic Blanford

EXPANDING SERVICES Blanford says he would like to offer more services to the community in the future, an endeavor they are actively working towards. “That breaks our heart, especially when I have single men who come, and I have no shelter for them. Or the situation where we have a family come, but dad can’t stay here, so we have to send them to Lakeland. We’re exploring what we can do to expand services where we can focus on not only families but single men and single women. We may approach the county, the cities, to see what we can do to expand our services,” he said. The Salvation Army of East Polk County has partnered with TriCounty Human Services and Heart for Winter Haven to mitigate homelessness in the community. “We’ve all come together because we all want the same thing for this community,” said Blanford. “We’ve collaborated to see what we can do to come up with a solution of maybe providing stable housing for families through intensive case management to promote self-sufficiency, alongside this particular building, which we’d like to see become a single women’s and single men’s shelter.” To sign up to be an Angel or adopt a family in the Angel Tree Program, volunteer for the Red Kettle Campaign, Family Store, or food pantry, or more information on other programs including youth camp and character building and the CAN-U-CARE drive, visit the website or call the phone numbers below. www.salvationarmywinterhaven.org FB @SalArmyWinterHaven Angel Tree, Red Kettle Campaign, Camp, Character building Programs/CAN-U-CARE Drive: (863) 294-7493 Family Store: (863) 401-3583 Social Service/Food Pantry: (863) 291-5107 havenmagazines.com

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WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Banh Mi? Oh My! making it and what makes it so popular. We brought the recipe over here,” he said.

In the bright yellow building on Avenue A, formerly Bryant Home Gallery Marketplace, Bao and Lena Nguyen bake ‘a lot of happiness’ by way of fresh bread and authentic Vietnamese recipes to make their ‘Dang Good’ bami (banh mi).

Bao and Lena first looked to open their Vietnamese sandwich shop in Lakeland, closer to where they live. “Lots of our friends recommended the Downtown Winter Haven area,” Bao said. “We heard a lot of good things about the area, and the price is better as well. So, we decided to go with our first shop over here.”

The couple lives in Lakeland, where they moved from California two years earlier. “We originated from Vietnam, so we’re very familiar [with banh mi]. In California where we lived, there’s banh mi all over the place,” said Bao, adding that five or six banh mi shops would compete within one city.

Throughout 2020, they tested recipes and offered catering to businesses, taking in feedback and improving their product along the way. Bao and Lena started renovations on their Downtown Winter Haven sandwich spot in January 2021. “We were hoping to get to Winter Haven sooner, but it took us a while to get the place done. Finally, we got done in August,” Bao said. They began a BL Sandwich soft opening on August 18 and hope to have a grand opening in mid-November.

“When we came to the Lakeland/ Winter Haven area, we were quite surprised because there’s no banh mi here,” he said. So the couple decided to open a Vietnamese sandwich shop in Polk County. When they set out to open their banh mi or ‘bami’ shop, Bao said, “We want to make it exactly the way Vietnamese people make it.” One distinction between a traditional Vietnamese banh mi and the Western version is the bread. Here, many shops offer a baguette bun, which according to Bao, is not how the Vietnamese make it.

BL Sandwich is short for the establishment’s full title, Bách Lac Bakery. Bao said, “In Asian Vietnamese meaning, Bách means ‘a lot’ and Lac means ‘happiness.’ So the name basically means ‘a lot of happiness.’” The B and L also stand for the couple’s initials – Bao and Lena.

“We took a trip back to Vietnam right before COVID. We took classes over there to try to understand the beauty of why they’re

“We wanted to bring a little bit of everything,” Bao said of their - CONTINUED ON PAGE 39 -

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The Nguyen’s stay up to date on the culinary goings-on of Vietnam to bring new styles and recipes into their shop. “In the future, we’re looking to bring more specialties, which is one of the things other shops won’t have. That’s because we actually go back there [to Vietnam], and the bami in Vietnam is constantly evolving, and they’re bringing new recipes every day.”

menu. The traditional and most popular among Vietnamese folks is their number one, Combination Bami. The special Vietnamese style sandwich is served with Vietnamese jambon, pork roll, head cheese, pate, daikon radish, pickled carrot, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeno. “In Vietnam, they don’t have green jalapeno like we have it here. They use a tiny Vietnamese chili that’s super spicy. I didn’t want to introduce it just yet because I’m afraid it’s too spicy.” Bao says iron-palate customers curious about the piquant pepper can request it on their BL Sandwich to enjoy it the way the Vietnamese do.

One such specialty is roasted pork with crispy skin. “Until now, I didn’t know of any shop in Florida that did it, but we’ll bring it as a special,” he said. In addition to their bangin’ bami, BL Sandwich offers pastries, snacks, and beverages like Tiger Sugar Milk with Boba, Lychee Tea with Boba, and Vietnamese Coffee with Condensed Milk.

The recipe for this sandwich hails straight from Vietnam, and Lena does all the cooking. According to Bao, the banh mi is a French-inspired sandwich of which the Vietnamese adapted the French baguette baking style for a lighter, more airy bread with a crispy outer crust. “The outside needs to be grilled crunchy and stay crunchy for a while. The inside not only has to be soft but also needs to be fluffy,” he said, adding that Vietnamese people continue to develop different shapes and forms of this bread, which BL plans to introduce to their customers in the future.

The BL Sandwich shop owners have utilized their first few months of a soft opening as a learning and growing period. “We always ask for feedback, and the more we improve it, we see the more positive a customer responds to it,” said Bao of their food. The couple pride themselves on listening to customer feedback and working to improve their food constantly. One change they made per customer feedback was increasing the size of their fresh buns.

“When you open the bread, there’s steam coming out, and that’s how Vietnamese people developed it that makes it stand out from other bread. It’s a challenge to replicate that bread,” Bao added. He and Lena make their bread fresh, in-house, and from scratch every day. They stay in touch with their culinary teachers in Vietnam, with whom they have regular video calls to continue improving the craft.

When we spoke, Bao and Lena were working on their website, ordering app, menu, and reward program to further elevate the customer experience. “I know life is busy, and people need a quick grab and go, and something fresh, nice, and delicious as well. We want to make it easier for people,” said Bao. Follow BL Sandwich’s social media for details on a grand opening date, specials, and more!

The BL Sandwich menu has a little something for everyone. If a Combination Bami isn’t your speed, they offer grilled pork, grilled chicken, meatball, Char Siu (barbecue pork), sardine, and vegan bami sandwiches. “We have special sauces for each of them as well. We have a special meat sauce for grilled pork, grilled chicken, and for the meatball, we have our own sauce too,” Bao said. “We bring in some creativity with it like the sausage and egg, which is my favorite.”

BL Sandwich 260 Ave A SW, Winter Haven (863) 229-5507 blsandwich.com FB: BL Sandwich IG @blsandwichfl

cinnamon rosemary old fashioned Cinnamon Rosemary Simple Syrup: 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup water 6 sprigs rosemary 3 cinnamon sticks For the Cocktail: 4 teaspoons cinnamon rosemary simple syrup (recipe below) 3 dashes bitters 2 ounces bourbon 1 orange peel rosemary sprig for garnish optional In a small saucepan, combine honey, water, rosemary sprigs, and cinnamon sticks over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the honey has dissolved into water. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Once cool, remove rosemary and cinnamon sticks and transfer to an airtight container. In a tumbler, add 4 teaspoons of the simple syrup and 3 dashes of bitters and swirl around in glass. Add bourbon, ice, orange peel, and stir. Adapted from Salted Plains, please drink responsibly 21+

WHY DINING LOCAL MATTERS Support the diversity of our neighbors enriching our community through food. Support local restaurants

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Vakti Gallery Even with your head in the books, it would be hard not to appreciate the art on the walls of Downtown Lakeland’s independent bookstore, Pressed Books & Coffee. Each piece is the work of a local artist, presented by Vakti Gallery, an online art gallery started by Lakelander Olivia Overholt. Through the online gallery, monthly pop-up shows, and wall space at Pressed, the Vakti Gallery owner and gallery director aims to connect the community to fine art. The gallery’s mission is “To provide a space where local artists can be recognized and where the quality and power of their creations can be felt.”

For the artist and gallery owner, Vakti in name and practice is “listening to local artists, not just using their art for decoration.” In Vakti Gallery’s infancy, Overholt connected with her high school art teacher Kari Clever for advice. “There’s only so much I know, and I was willing to admit that,” Overholt said. She learned about sourcing artists, pricing, shipping, and other art gallery ins and outs. One of the first to join Vakti Gallery was fine artist Seungdo Hyun. “I was super excited because he’s well known,” said Overholt. “I was very appreciative.”

Overholt was born and raised in Lakeland. After graduating from Lakeland Christian School, she attended Anderson University in South Carolina, majoring in graphic design. Overholt moved home after college at the height of the pandemic.

Another artist early to Vakti’s digital gallery and a valuable resource for Overholt was former high school classmate, Rebekah Firmin who creates art and illustrations as Mockingbird Artist. “I was able to talk to her and use her as a resource because she has been in Lakeland selling art since before I moved back from college. It was good to find someone who does sell art and knows which avenues work and don’t work,” said the gallery director.

Though Overholt majored in graphic design, she is an artist at heart. She enjoys the hands-on, messy aspect of creating something like her woodblock prints, carved out entirely by hand. “It’s good to not stare at the screen for a while,” she laughed. The artist also has an affinity for acrylic paint and charcoal. “If my hands aren’t dirty at the end of it, it’s not worth it for me,” she said. Back home in Lakeland, she began looking for a place to sell her art but couldn’t find one.

Vakti Gallery currently has around 150 pieces of art, photography, sculptures, and mixed media online and available for purchase. The gallery represents 22 artists, including Olivia Overholt, that are based in Central Florida from Lake Wales, Orlando, Winter Haven, Clearwater, and Lakeland. Vakti brings fine art by local artists before the community through an online gallery medium, pop-up shows, and a rotating selection of art at Pressed Books & Coffee. “It’s good here for exposure,” Overholt said of the Pressed gallery space. “The amount of people who have come up to me while I’m working and said, ‘Hey, who do I talk to about art on the walls?’ It’s been insane.”

Unable to find an accessible art scene, Overholt decided to open her own gallery – with a bit of a twist. “I was looking for a place to sell my art but couldn’t find one,” she said. “When I decided to open the gallery, I wanted to do it for other artists who needed a place to sell their art.” She had the community in mind too. “I wanted to make sure that people who do come in – whether it’s for college or because it’s not cold here, or to be closer to the beach – whatever reason they move here, that they have an easier way of finding that art scene,” she said.

What’s next for Vakti Gallery? “I would love to have a physical location,” said Overholt. “But in the meantime, in the next few years, the pop-up shows are fantastic. I love having them. It’s so much fun.” The next pop-up show will be on November 20 from 5-9 pm at LKLD Live, followed by a Christmas Show at a local residence on December 11 from 5-8 pm. Check the website for address details for the December show.

On December 1, 2020, Overholt launched her online art gallery, which she named Vakti Gallery. Of the endeavor, Overholt smiled and said, “When I was in college, I used to look at the painting majors and think they were insane because they were going to spend their whole life trying to sell art. Then I graduated, and now I’m doing the same thing.”

The next time you’re in Pressed or shopping Vakti Gallery’s website and a piece of art speaks to you, keep Vakti’s meaning in mind, and listen.

The gallery director spent quite a bit of time choosing a name for the digital and pop-up space to represent local artists. “I chose Vakti because it does have a root word that means something. It comes from the Sanskrit root word for ‘speech.’ I believe that all art is a way to express yourself. Even if it’s abstract and you think it doesn’t mean anything, it does. [...] I decided that all art, more than being a part of you, is what you’re saying.”

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Vakti Gallery vaktigallery.com FB @vaktigallery IG @vaktigallery

WORDS Ella Sexson

PHOTOGRAPH Joe Lopez

Blackberry Smoke “Some of the best modern Southern rock around today.” - RIFF Magazine

stereotypes, which is the theme of Starr’s lyrics as it relates to the band’s own Southern roots. “Lyrically, the song is about the South being misunderstood. It’s obviously a rough and tumble world, and there’s a lot of bad people. But there’s a lot of good people too. It started with the idea of how people might have a preconceived opinion of you because of a thick Southern accent, then expanded into the reality of how some people just seem to have such a hard time getting along, thanks to political or religious views, or simply what part of the country you come from.” With that in mind, the songs of the album started to really come together. Many of the songs describe characters that are restless and prone to seeking out a change of scenery, in hopes of finding a place where they belong.

“After 20 years, they still make songs that make you want to boogie your troubles away… they have established themselves as the torchbearer of modern Southern rock” - PopMatters “Their best album in years… brings the rock back to Southern rock in a big way.” -Gary Hayes Country “Blackberry Smoke is still on fire… a testament to that tenacity and an unapologetic ode to an insurgent attitude and tradition. That’s evident in practically every note and nuance.” - American Songwriter

Amidst their newest album receiving so much praise, NPR Music noted that their album “pushes the envelope while providing that famous Blackberry Smoke autonomy, delivered with soulful vocals, haunting harmonies, and kickass songs.”

Blackberry Smoke has been making Southern rock albums for over 20 years. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, their roots still run deep. Their newest album You Hear Georgia, has critics raving about their musical talent. This album culminates the feel of Georgia by honoring the people, places, and sounds of their home state. The album already has entered at #1 on Billboard’s Americana/Folk Albums chart, #4 on the all-genre Top Albums chart, #5 on the Top Country Albums chart, and #7 on the Top Rock Albums chart. Produced by Dave Cobb, this album has critics praising their Southern rock sound. Now, the band is officially going on tour for You Hear Georgia, with a stop in Lake Wales this December.

This tour is all about honoring the many southern music influences that made their sound what it is today. The upcoming shows add to a special milestone year for Blackberry Smoke, whose 20th anniversary as a band is this year. Rolling Stone hailed that their sound is “part of a lineage that shares a love of Petty, the Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Hank Williams Jr., able to ride an Americana vibe or peel off a stomping riff and tie it all together without a hint of pretense.”

Blackberry Smoke is Charlie Starr (vocals, guitar), Richard Turner (bass, vocals), Brit Turner (drums), Paul Jackson (guitar, vocals), and Brandon Still (keyboards). Lead Singer of the band Charlie Starr shares, “We can’t wait to come out and play our new songs from You Hear Georgia LIVE! We are long overdue to get out to these great places and see some friends, family, brothers, and sisters that we have really missed. It’s going to be extra special playing these big rock n roll shows again!”

Since forming in 2001, the band has continued to tour relentlessly, building a strong and loyal following. Their music has also been prominently featured in the television show, “Yellowstone” and they’ve performed on Stephen Colbert, Conan O’Brien, and Last Call with Carson Daly. In addition to their work as musicians, Blackberry Smoke remains committed to charitable work and has raised nearly $500,000 benefiting children’s cancer research. Watch Blackberry Smoke perform live at the Orange Blossom Revue on December 4th at 8pm. Polk County fans can watch their southern roots-inspired music at the Lake Wailes park in Lake Wales.

The band members have come so far together, and they rely on one another for support and creative direction. “Having played music together for so long, it does become sort of a telepathic thing, where we all are nodding our heads at the same time, like, “A-ha, I know what this feels like, or what it should feel and sound like,” Starr says.

Purchase your tickets in advance at orangeblossomrevue.com.

You Hear Georgia features a narrator who is misunderstood because of his outward appearances and misguided

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Check Me Out ;) THE BOOK OF HOPE: A SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR TRYING TIMES By Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams with Gail Hudson In the second book of the Global Icons Series, Jane Goodall, the world’s most famous living naturalist, and Douglas Abrams explore one of the most sought after and least understood elements of human nature: hope.

ZEN AND THE ART OF SAVING THE PLANET By Thich Nhat Hanh We face a potent combination of crises: ecological destruction, rising inequality, and racial injustice, as well as the lasting impacts of a devastating pandemic. To face these challenges, we need to find ways to strengthen our clarity and compassion and find the courage to act. Thich Nhat Hanh blends meditations, Zen stories, and personal stories from his own activism to show us a way of seeing and living that can bring healing and harmony to our relationship between others, ourselves, and the Earth.

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GOOD BUSINESS: THE TALK, FIGHT, WIN WAY TO CHANGE THE WORLD By Bill Novelli Bill Novelli proves that you can do well by doing good; that you can make a positive social difference regardless of what business you are in or where you are in your career. Readers will come away with the message that anyone who wants to have a positive impact on the world can do it right now from where they are in life.

DOING GOOD BETTER By William MacAskill Most of us want to make a difference, but we often decide how to do so based on assumptions and emotions rather than facts and, as a result, our good intentions often lead to ineffective, sometimes harmful, outcomes. In “Doing Good Better,” MacAskill introduces the principles underlying effective altruism and sets out a practical guide to increasing your impact through volunteering, giving, spending, and choosing our causes.

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

THE LIGHTHOUSE EFFECT: HOW ORDINARY PEOPLE CAN HAVE AN EXTRAORDINARY IMPACT IN THE WORLD By Steve Pemberton

BE MY GUEST: REFLECTIONS ON FOOD, COMMUNITY AND THE MEANING OF GENEROSITY By Priya Basil

It can seem like our polarized culture is without heroes and role models, so Pemberton tells us it is now that we need “human lighthouses” to give us hope. With his unique vision for building up individuals and communities and restoring trust, “The Lighthouse Effect” opens your eyes to those who are quietly heroic.

A story of food, family, identity, immigration, and, most of all, hospitality. “Be My Guest” is an utterly unique and personal meditation on what it means to tend to others and to ourselves - and how the two things work hand in hand. Priya Basil explores how food is used to express love and support.

HUMAN KIND: CHANGING THE WORLD ONE SMALL ACT AT A TIME By Brad Aronson

THIS COULD BE OUR FUTURE: A MANIFESTO FOR A MORE GENEROUS WORLD By Yancey Strickler

This book is filled with true stories about how one small deed can make a world of difference. “Human Kind” will leave you grateful for what you have and provide a refuge from the negativity all around. The book also provides dozens of ways you can make a difference through the simplest words and deeds - like how buying someone a meal or sharing a little encouragement at the right time can change someone’s world, as well as your own.

Yancey Strickler, co-founder of Kickstarter, outlines his vision for building a society that looks beyond money and toward maximizing the values that make life worth living. By assigning rational value to things other than money - values like community, purpose, and sustainability - we can refocus our energies to build a future-forward society that’s more generous and fair.

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NOVEMBER CALENDAR 2021 *Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house.

COPS FOR KIDS When: Nov. 01 - Dec. 03, 2021 Where: Downtown Lakeland Looking to share some good will and cheer this coming holiday season? Donate new & unwrapped toys at any of the below locations: Lakeland Police Department, 219 N. Mass Ave; City Hall, 228 S Mass Ave; Lakeland Public Libraries (100 Lake Morton Dr, 1700 N Florida Ave, 4740 S Florida Ave); Lakeland Electric, 501 E Lemon St; Kelly Recreation Complex, 404 Imperial Blvd. For additional information, call 863.834.6912. AFTER SCHOOL ART When: Nov. 01, 2021 | 4:30-5:30 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org After School Art is designed for the parent and child to learn creative new skills together. The activities are easily designed to be recreated at home to further enhance your young artists’ skills - and yours, too! Doors open at 4:20 pm. Space is limited; be sure to arrive early to secure your spot! After School Art is free for Members; $5 per child per class for Non-Members. 863-688-7743 OPEN MIC NIGHT When: Nov. 01, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St. NW, Winter Haven gpderrydown.com First Monday of the Month. Musicians of all ages are invited to play in this historic venue, just come in and sign your name to perform up to 3 songs. Beginners, veteran performers, singer-songwriters, and anyone who wants to work on their craft in a supportive communal environment are welcome. For those of you who enjoy listening, please join us as well. There is no cost to attend.

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Gallery that feature artwork by Polk County School District students. From each of these exhibitions, one piece is purchased by the Museum to be added to our Student Collection.This exhibition may be viewed online. 863-688-7743

UAW MID FLORIDA RETIREE COUNCIL When: Nov. 02, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: UWA Drop In Center 209 Avenue O SW, Winter Haven The UAW Mid Florida Retiree Council’s drop in center in Winter Haven is now open again. The office will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The office is located in the Hope Plaza strip mall (off Hwy 17 by the WAWA and across the street from Big Lots). Please contact them at (863) 2935556 or drop by with any problems you have with your benefits. All UAW retired members are welcome to take advantage of this drop in center. Please bring all pertinent paperwork in order to resolve any problems. Please contact the office for further updates on monthly meetings. Pass this info along to any UAW retired members you know who may not get this publication.

MUSIC BINGO, FUN RUN & BEER! When: Nov. 02, 2021 | 5:30 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St. Lakeland La Palapa Time will be on hand at 3pm to feed you as you gear up for either your Fun Run at 5:30 or Music Bingo with SG Wood at 6:30. HYBRID FOSTER CARE CLASS When: Nov. 02, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org/become Learn how you can become a foster care parent in Polk County at this 3-Week Foster Class.Tuesday Classes (via Zoom) 11/2, 11/9, 11/16 from 6-8pm. Tuesday Classes (via Zoom): 11/30, 12/7, 12/14 from 6-8pm. To register call 863-5198900 x 289 or visit heartlandforchildren. org/become

PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION When: Nov. 02, 2021 - Jan. 09, 2022 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Pictures at an Exhibition is a unique collaboration between the Polk Museum of Art and the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra. This one-of-a-kind exhibition promises to delight art and music lovers alike. Guest curated by instrumentalists of the Orchestra, Pictures at an Exhibition pairs artwork from the Museum’s permanent collection with hand-picked musical selections performed by the musicians themselves for a unique multisensory viewing and listening experience. Each work in this exhibition provides an exciting visual and musical pairing, encouraging visitors to experience how both the performing and visual arts can enhance and engage with one another.

CIRO’S SWEET TOOTH DESSERT TOUR When: Nov. 03, 2021 | 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com Explore the sweeter side of Winter Haven, Florida! Muffins, Cupcakes, Pies, and more! Get ready to taste delicious desserts showcased at amazing restaurants and stores. This tour is perfect for kids of all ages! 48 hours advance ticket purchase is required in order for the tour to run. Tastings are subject to change, days and times vary. Contact info@winterhavenfoodtours.com. RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE When: Nov. 03, 2021 | 1-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join UF/IFAS Extension experts in the Alexander Discovery Center to learn how to use the right plant, right place principle when landscaping with Florida native plants. Included with general admission or membership. Registration required. 863-734-1222

LEARNING TO BE ME When: Nov. 02 - 14, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Artwork by Polk County Students Grades K through 2. This exhibition features the work of the youngest Polk County art students.The museum hosts several exhibitions per year in the George Jenkins

AFTERNOON FLAVORS OF WINTER HAVEN FOOD TOUR When: Nov. 03, 2021 | 2-4:30 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com Your friendly tour guide will share history of food and the award-winning city all while you sample delicious dishes. Get to know why Winter Haven is where we live, work, and play. All Tours will be mostly outdoors. Tickets must be purchased 48 hours in advance. Tastings are subject to change. Price & days vary. Contact info@winterhavenfoodtours.com.

WINTER HAVEN HAPPY HOUR WALKING TOUR When: Nov. 03, 2021 | 4:30-7 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Parking Garage 220 Ave A NW, Winter Haven winterhavenfoodtours.com Where do the locals hangout? Come join us for Happy Hour and find out! The happy hour tour only focuses on bars and restaurants that host Happy Hours. This tour is only offered during the week and samples different foods from different restaurants that celebrate Happy Hour. Must be 21 with ID to attend.Tours must be purchased 48 hours in advance. Email info@winterhavenfoodtours.com. Price and days vary. HOLD ON I KNOW THIS When: Nov. 03, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Breezy Eazy will bring food for you starting at 3pm, and you can show your knowledge of trivia with Nick for “Hold On I Know This” at 6:30. Win prizes! Free to play. UAW MID FLORIDA RETIREE COUNCIL When: Nov. 04, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: UWA Drop In Center 209 Avenue O SW Winter Haven The UAW Mid Florida Retiree Council’s drop in center in Winter Haven is now open again. The office will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The office is located in the Hope Plaza strip mall (off Hwy 17 by the - CONTINUED ON PAGE 50 -

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

All Together Now! Nov 14-15 Caribbean Chillerz Nov 18

Dueling Pianos Nov 18 Candlelight at The Ritz Nov 20

Plaid Tidings Dec 3-5, 10-12

Blue Christmas Elvis Tribute Dec 18

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WAWA and across the street from Big Lots). Please contact them at (863) 2935556 or drop by with any problems you have with your benefits. All UAW retired members are welcome to take advantage of this drop in center. Please bring all pertinent paperwork in order to resolve any problems. Please contact the office for further updates on monthly meetings. Pass this info along to any UAW retired members you know who may not get this publication. FLEA & FARMERS MARKET When: Nov. 04, 2021 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center 101 Adventure Ct., Davenport Every Thursday enjoy a variety of vendors offering fresh local produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, home goods and more. CFVIC is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week (excluding major holidays). For more information, or if you would like to become a vendor, contact Dennis Budde at (863) 420-2586 or Dennis@visitcentralflorida.org.

Winter Haven & CJM Board of Directors. The event is a fundraiser benefiting The Winter Haven Public Education Partnership and Cypress Junction Montessori. At only $25/ticket, you’re sure to enjoy a fun night benefitting public education in Winter Haven! Be sure to bring extra cash to tip your favorite singer (remember, each dollar raised counts as a vote for them!) and purchase delicious food from favorite local food trucks throughout the evening.

AFTER HOURS AT THE MUSEUM When: Nov. 04, 2021 | 3-8 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org The Polk Museum of Art will stay open until 8pm on the first Thursday of each month. During the evening, Dr. H. Alexander Rich, Executive Director and Chief Curator, will host a Curator Tour at 6pm, providing in-depth art-historical and curatorial insight into one of our current exhibitions. Registration is not required, but appreciated.

LUBECK LIVE When: Nov. 04, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Lubeck will bring the tunes at 6 and Cuban B’s will bring the eats starting at 3pm.

CELEBRITY LIP SYNC BATTLE When: Nov. 04, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Dr. Winter Haven http://secure.qgiv.com/ for/20celebrlisbattl/event/833272 2021 Contestants: ReNata Baker Cypress Junction Montessori; Maude F. Graham - 2021 Polk County Teacher of the Year R. W. Blake Academy; Frederick Heid - Superintendent of Polk County Public Schools; David Nicholson - City of Winter Haven; Heather Reuter - City of

THURSDAY TRIVIA AT CRAFT+ KITCHEN When: Nov. 04, 2021 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Craft + Kitchen 3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Weekly live trivia event at Craft + Kitchen hosted by Triviosity Live Events every Thursday. Prizes to the Top 3 teams.

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SENIOR FALL SOCIAL When: Nov. 05, 2021 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Wabash Community Center 1230 Southern Ave, Lakeland Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Senior Social: Fall Edition. This autumnal outdoor event will feature:- Yard GamesGroup Games- Healthy Cooking DemosDIY Art Activities- Letters to VeteransInfo Vendors- Free Lunch (first come, first serve)Recommended for Seniors 55+. For more information, please call (863) 284-4223. FLORIDA CITRUS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION LUNCHEON When: Nov. 05, 2021 | 11:30 a.m. Where: George W. Jenkins Field House at Florida Southern College, Frank Loyd Wright Way, Lakeland FloridaCitrusHallofFame.com John L. Jackson, of Sorrento, Fla., Lew J. Prosser (deceased), formerly of Plant City, Fla., Adam H. Putnam, of Memphis, Tenn. and Steven D. “Steve” Sorrells, of Arcadia, Fla. will be honored. Tickets to the luncheon, which is co-sponsored by Florida Citrus Mutual and The Florida - CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 -

City of Winter Haven and Main Street Winter Haven

Starlight Nights W

Lighting up Downtown Winter Haven for the Holidays!

November 24th Starlight Nights & Window Decorating Contest 27th Shop Small Saturday December 2nd Tree Light Ceremony 4th Carols in the Park 11th Cookies & Cocoa 18th Santa Con

Big ThankyoutoourSponsors!

NEW ELECTRIC MECHANICAL LLC

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November 24th thru January 6th

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Department of Citrus, are $125 for Patron Seating or $1,700 for a Sponsor Table. To purchase tickets, please call Florida Citrus Mutual at (863) 682-1111 or visit the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame website at FloridaCitrusHallofFame.com. FIRST FRIDAY: BUFFALO SOLDIERS NIGHT When: Nov. 05, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Lakeland DowntownLKLD.com First Friday’s Buffalo Soldiers Night, in partnership with Platform Art, will have a Buffalo Soldier Parade beginning at 6:15 pm on S. Kentucky Ave. near Lemon St., heading down N. Kentucky Ave. to the Munn Park Parking Lot. Meet and greet with Buffalo soldiers and their horses and motorcycles from 6:45-7:30 pm in Munn Park Parking Lot. Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Don’t miss the Makers Market, featuring local artists and creators, on North Kentucky Avenue and the Classy Car Show on Main St. and Tennessee Ave. S

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DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 05, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: The Poor Porker 801 E Main St, Lakeland danielpepinmusic.com Join us at the Poor Porker for an evening of music featuring Daniel Pepin. SIRSY When: Nov. 05, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland SIRSY is back on tour and stopping in Lakeland! Smokin’ Chanchos will start serving food at 3pm. THE FOX ON THE FAIRWAY When: Nov. 05 - 14, 2021 Where: Lakeland Community Theatre 121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland lakelandcommunitytheatre.com A tribute from Ken Ludwig (Lend Me A Tenor, Moon Over Buffalo) to the great English farces of the 1930s and 1940s, A Fox On the Fairway takes audiences on a hilarious romp, which pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy denizens of a private country club. Filled with mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-the-

top romantic shenanigans, it’s a furiously paced comedy that recalls the Marx Brothers’ classics. 863-603-7529

preferred. Register for this event at: polkgardenfunfestnovember2021. eventbrite.com

MUSIC OF AEROSMITH When: Nov. 05, 2021 | 8 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! Jaded, is a FL-based , professional level Tribute show band covering the look, moves, and all of the many hit songs and classics of Aerosmith. 863-294-7469

ART CRAWL When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Munn Park, Lakeland artcrawlfl.com A FREE festival featuring over 50 local artists selling artwork and competing for prizes alongside live music, performances, and art demonstrations! Art Crawl is designed to spotlight emerging artists, performers, other area art organizations, and grass-root art movements that may not fit the common tradition of art festivals in the area. Artwork featured will be accessible for all budgets. Start your collection here!

GARDEN FUN FEST When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: UF/IFAS Extension 1702 S Highway, Bartow Join UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Master Gardener Volunteers and the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program for a half day of garden tours, make & take workshops, and a rain barrel workshop! Pre-registration

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, unusual food trucks, artisan - CONTINUED ON PAGE 54 -

WINTER HAVEN IS WHERE TO RIDE

Whether you are an avid cyclist or a slow roller, The Bike Shop in Downtown Winter Haven can help you with any needs. Soon the Van Fleet trail will be connected to the Winter Haven bike path going directly through Downtown Winter Haven. You’ll be able to ride for a mile or 120 miles.

Winter Haven is a great place to live if you love to ride MON-FRI: 10am - 6pm SAT: 10am - 5pm SUN: Closed 249 3rd St SW, Winter Haven | bikeshopofwinterhaven.com || 863.299.9907 53

food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of curated makers. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music + tables and chairs to sit and relax at. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building in Downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. Interested vendors apply online.

HYBRID FOSTER CARE CLASS When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Heartland for Children 1350 E Main St. Suite C3, Bartow heartlandforchildren.org/become Zoom Class Dates: 11/6 and 11/20 from 10am-3pm. In-person Class Dates: 11/13 from 9am-3:30pm. To register, either call 863-519-8900 x 289 or visit heartlandforchildren.org/become

OFF THE GRIDDLE NIBBLE & WIGGLE When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 12-11 p.m. Where: ComeUnity Marketplace 839 N Mass Ave, Lakeland facebook.com/ComeUnityMarketplace This will be one full day of amazing eats and dancing feets. Don’t miss this one! $20 @ the door day of show. Planned Lineup: 1:30-2:30 Sunny Rae (of Free Range Strange); 3:00-4:30 Solflower; 5:00-6:30 Este Loves; 7:00-8:30Sweat Out The Devil; 9:00-10:30 Tony Tyler Trance.

OAK HILL CEMETERY TOUR When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 11 a.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow polk-county.net/history-center/ education Learn about historic Oak Hill Cemetery

TOP NATIVE PLANTS FOR YOUR GARDEN When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 1-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join Marc Godts, horticulturalist from Green Isle Gardens Nursery, in the Magnolia Room as he discusses his top native plant picks for your garden. Marc designs landscapes with native plants and received the 2016 Florida Native Plant Society, Landscape Design Award for Excellence. Stop by the Shop at Bok after the program to purchase Native Plants from Green Isle Gardens Nursery. Included with general admission or membership, registration required. 863-734-1222 TOURIST BOB When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 2-5 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Tourist Bob is back in town! Salt & Fire Food Lab will be there all day beginning at noon.

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Are You Ready for Retirement?

RAPS

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SKILLS ON WHEELS When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Lake Eva Event Center 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City bit.ly/21-WCBALL Polk County Parks & Recreation, in association with Haines City Parks and Recreation, will be hosting a wheelchair basketball clinic at the Lake Eva Community Center. The clinic intends to introduce basic skills associated with the popular adaptive sport of Wheelchair Basketball. Skills on Wheels is open to all ages, skill levels and abilities. This inaugural clinic will feature skill demonstrations and competitions. Light refreshments will follow the day’s activities.This event is free but requires all participants to pre-register at https://

and those interred within. The tour starts at the History Center with a short onemile walk that includes historic landmarks along the route. It includes discussion on traditional burial practices, impact of the medical revolution and pioneers of Polk County. Oak Hill Cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 with the earliest recorded burial dating to 1860.This program is also offered on the 1st Saturday of each month at 11 a.m.

bit.ly/21-WCBALL. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Adaptive sports chairs will be provided on a limited basis. For more information, please call Polk County Parks & Recreation at (863) 5346911. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available at the event. Masks are not required but are encouraged for event attendees.

EN -FRE E BUN

S•

Just a little bit of planning can make a big difference. Call us, we are here to help. Brad Dantzler, AAMS®

Managing Director Senior Vice President, Investments 141 5th Street NW, Suite 100 || Winter Haven, FL 863.298.9569 || 866.309.7515 || braddantzler.com brad.dantzler@raymondjames.com

543 Ave B SW, Winter Haven || Open 7 days a week, 11am – 8pm || havenmagazines.com

YOU HAD ME AT SUSHI 55

Tues - Fri: 11am to 2pm \\ 4pm to 9pm Sat: 4pm to 9pm Now Open Sundays: 11:30am to 2:30pm 863.293.2395 \\ 317 West Central Ave. Winter Haven

ACS CATTLE BARON’S BOOTLEGGERS BALL When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Bunch Ranch 4641 Hancock Ave. SE, Lakeland The American Cancer Society Polk County Cattle Baron’s Ball is a one-ofa-kind evening, featuring great food, dancing, a spectacular auction, and much more. With your support, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against cancer. Find more info on their FB @cattlebaronsballpolk. DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Craft + Kitchen 3234 Florida Ave S, Lakeland danielpepinmusic.com Join us for an evening of great food, drinks, and music!

LUKE WILMOTH When: Nov. 07, 2021 | 2-5 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Local musician Luke Wilmoth will sing away your Sunday afternoon at 2pm, and Breezy Eazy Bistro will bring all the delicious food starting at noon.

LIP SYNC BATTLE: FOR THE LOVE OF KIDS When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: RP Funding Center 701 Lime Street, Lakeland elcpolk.org The Early Learning Coalition of Polk County will host their 4th Annual Gala and The Lip Sync Battle for the Love of Kids Show. It will feature a formal dinner with special guests State Representative Melony Bell and daughter Ashley Bell Barnett and community heroes. Afterward various teams of local community organizations will compete for the Lip Sync Battle for the Love of Kids trophy.

BROADWAY’S LEADING LADIES When: Nov. 07, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! The show will take the audience through six of Broadway’s most notable leading women’s resumes and songs.

33 YEARS BAND When: Nov. 06, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland South Florida’s 33 Years Band is heading “up” to Swan to rock your evening! Salt & Fire Food Lab will be on hand all day to curb your hunger.

BASIC SEWING FOR ADULTS When: Nov. 08, 2021 | 2-4 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Public Library 290 Cypress Garden Lane Lake Wales The classes will be taught by Jodie Schmidt and Diana Davila.These classes provide instruction in safely using a

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS When: Nov. 07, 2021 | 12 a.m. Move your clocks back one hour!

sewing machine, threading a machine and joining fabric. Also included are pinning, feeding, hemming, decorative stitching and other skills. Basic Sewing for Adults is a two-part class, 2 until 4 p.m., November 8 & 9. Adult may register by calling 863-678-4004, ext. 221 or emailing, library@lakewalesfl.gov. All supplies are provided. Face coverings are encouraged. Participants must be able to attend all class sessions as scheduled. POSH PURSE PARTY When: Nov. 09, 2021 | 9 a.m. ppp21.givesmart.com Pace Polk’s annual Posh Purse Party is from November 9th to November 11th. It will be a virtual event with new purses and experiences in the silent auction. Tickets are only $10 and the first 200 people who register will get a Disney purse! Proceeds benefit Pace Center for Girls. MUSIC BINGO & FLEET FEET FUN RUN When: Nov. 09, 2021 | 5:30 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland Test your knowledge, test your skill at - CONTINUED ON PAGE 58 -

Your Health Is Important To Us Allergy Asthma & Immunology Treatment For ALL Ages

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

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Music Bingo at 6:30. Earn your beers by joining the Fleet Feet Fun Run (formerly FitNicheFL) at 5:30. And fill your belly with delicious eats from Cuban B’s! DESIGNING ATTRACTIVE LANDSCAPES FEATURING NATIVE PLANTS When: Nov. 10, 2021 | 1-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Gardens featuring native plants only have to look wild and messy if you want them to! With a few key design techniques in mind, one can design gardens in a variety of styles; from formal to meadow-like. Join the City of Lake Wales Horticulturist, Lester Gulledge, where you will discuss key considerations for native garden design particular to our setting on the Lake Wales Ridge. Included with general admission or membership, registration required. 863-734-1222 HOLD ON I KNOW THIS When: Nov. 10, 2021 | 6:30 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland What do ya know? It is game time - play

invite special guests to discuss a current exhibition at the Museum, incorporating their own unique expertise and perspectives. Registration is not required, but appreciated. 863-688-7743

for free and win prizes! Smokin’ Chanchos will be on hand starting at 3 pm. LAKELAND FOOD TRUCK RALLY When: Nov. 11, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Munn Park, Lakeland lakelandgov.net Head downtown for the Lakeland Food Truck Rally on the 2nd Thursday of Every Month for food trucks. This is familyfriendly and pet-friendly.

FLORIDA NATIVE EDIBLE PLANT HIKE When: Nov. 12, 2021 | 4-5 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Go for a hike through the preserve lands and up to the knoll as wyou focus on the wild edible plants of Florida.Included with general admission or membership, registration required. 863-734-1222

LAURA THURSTON When: Nov. 11, 2021 | 6-9 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St., Lakeland The delightful Laura Thurston is back for your Thursday evening at Swan Downtown. Mary Jane’s Burgers will bring the delicious eats starting at 3pm.

WINE, CHOCOLATE & CHEESE When: Nov. 12, 2021 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Downtown Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Main Street Winter Haven hosts their annual Wine, Chocolate and Cheese event with over 30 downtown businesses serving a wine & chocolate or a wine & cheese pairing. Your Tasting Passport will take you from business to business to sample each of the combinations! Live

POINT OF VIEW GALLERY TALK When: Nov. 12, 2021 | 12-1 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Join the Polk Museum of Art every second Friday of the month for a Point of View Gallery Talk! Each month, they

music on the street makes for a great night to explore Downtown with friends while enjoying great wine & bites. Tasting Passport tickets can be purchased online or at the event (unless sold out). Please utilize the parking garage, and come with photo ID in hand. FUNK UP YOUR FALL: ALMOST THERE, THE FREE WHISKEY BAND, AND THE BROKE ALL-STAR JAM When: Nov. 12, 2021 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Enjoy ten musicians on one stage as three of Central Florida’s top bands come together for a night of incredible music. Featuring music from across the funk, classic rock, soul and country spectrums, do not miss this magical event accentuated by the beautiful outdoor setting. $20 members/ $35 non-members, registration required. 863-734-1222

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Senior Living with a View Lake Howard Heights offers the perfect blend of comfort, care, and secure living.

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DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 12, 2021 | 8-11:55 p.m. Where: The Pink Piano 1015 Florida Ave S, Lakeland danielpepinmusic.com Join us for an evening of drinks and music! DEL WEBB ORLANDO GIFT & CRAFT SHOW When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Del Webb Orlando 500 Del Webb Blvd., Davenport Enter through the Guard gate on Rt 27. The Residents of Del Webb Orlando present their talents to help you simplify your gift giving this holiday season. Shop from gifts including hand made wreaths, jewelry, fabric items, fashion, art, Tastefully Simple and more! Over 40 vendors to choose from.The vendors will also raffle off gift baskets with all proceeds supporting the Sunshine Foundation, a local charity helping children (sunshinefoundation.org). Admission is free. Lunch available for purchase.

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pollinator hotel — a great addition to all landscapes! This hands-on workshop includes all materials and supplies to create your own pollinator hotel. $20 members/ $30 non-members, registration required. 863-734-1222

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, unusual food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of curated makers. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music + tables and chairs to sit and relax at. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in Downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. Interested vendors apply online.

ARTLAB When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 10-11:30 a.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Each month participants will be introduced to one of the Museum’s exhibitions in a fun and accessible, hands-on learning experience for all ages. ArtLabs are led by professional artists and art educators who will engage participants of all ages and skills in the creation of their own piece of artwork. Using a array of mediums and techniques, the project will relate to an exhibition on display in the Museum. Registration and more information will be available two weeks prior to the event. 863-688-7743

MAKE AND TAKE WORKSHOP: BUILD A POLLINATOR HOTEL When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 10-11 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join UF/IFAS Extension experts at Olmsted House for an informative and fun workshop for the whole family. Learn about pollinators and how to build a

ZOOM & VROOM: NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS: HOMESTEADS AND MAIN STREET When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 11 a.m. polk-county.net/history-center/zoomand-vroom Zoom & Vroom is a virtual program that provides registrants with the tools to create immersive learning experiences for the entire family. Each digital session features: A virtual history lesson with question and answer opportunities on a variety of topics. A routed half to full day driving tour that guides you from one historic location to the next. Interactive activities designed for all ages. Thematic activities including crafts and recipes. Suggested book readings to extend the learning experience. Zoom sessions are broadcast on the county Facebook page at 11am on the 2nd Saturday of each month, additional materials can be picked up at the Polk County History Center Tuesday — Saturday between 9am and 5pm.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 62 -

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

JAZZ CONNECTION SERIES: DAVE BRUBECK When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Arts Center 1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales centralfloridatix.com The Lake Wales Jazz Connection is a collective of Florida’s very best Jazz musicians. Led by drummer, composer, arranger, and educator Paul Gavin, the Jazz Connection brings to Lake Wales the very best of live Jazz Music in Central Florida. $25 Member/$30 Non Members. Pianist Dave Brubeck changed the landscape of jazz by incorporating unusual rhythms as well as classical influences into his compositions. Featuring University of Miami Professor of Jazz Piano Zach Bartholomew, the Lake Wales Jazz will play favorites like Take 5 and Blue Rondo a la Turk as well as many other Brubeck creations. SPCA SILVER PAWS When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 6 p.m. Where: Hilton Garden Inn Lakeland, 3839 Don Emerson Dr., Lakeland e.givesmart.com/events/niz/ SPCA Florida invites you to an evening

Trucks will be available to purchase dinner. 863-294-7469

of entertainment and joy with music, delicious dinner, life-saving heroes, live drawing of an exciting raffle, silent auction, live auction with Marty Higgenbotham, and surprises. Celebrity Guests: Polk County Sheriff, Grady Judd & Steven Hirano - Co-Founder of Best Friends Animal Society. Dinner by Terrie Lobb Catering. Valet Parking. Purchase tickets in advance.

WINTER HAVEN CARS AND COFFEE When: Nov. 14, 2021 | 8-11 a.m. Where: 250 Magnolia Ave. Winter Haven The Winter Haven Cars and Coffee will be located in the BB&T Bank parking lot at the corner of 3rd St SW and Ave C. (Where the Winter Haven Farmers Market is located.) Haven Coffee will be available for purchase. Anyone is welcome to bring their car, truck or SUV for show or enjoy as a spectator. The mission of the event is to help unite local automotive enthusiasts of all ages and create a space to enjoy together.If anyone has any questions currently they can email us at whcarsandcoffee@gmail. com, or on Instagram and Facebook @whcarsandcoffee. Visual Images is sponsoring Winter Haven Cars and Coffee which will be held on the second Sunday of every month from 8am-11am.

ALL TOGETHER NOW! A GLOBAL EVENT CELEBRATING LOCAL THEATRE When: Nov. 13, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Participating & Benefitting Organizations: Theatre Winter Haven, Harrison School for the Arts, and Polk State Theatre. This is a worldwide fundraising event celebrating the return of live theatre and allowing organizations around the world to locally produce and perform an exclusive musical revue, featuring songs from some of Broadway’s most beloved shows. Tickets: $25. Food

ALL TOGETHER NOW! When: Nov. 14, 2021 | 4 p.m. & Nov. 15, 2021 | 8 p.m. Where: Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City centralfloridatix.com TheatreWorks Florida is thrilled to announce they will be producing their first-ever major fundraiser special event in 14 years of the company! Music Theatre International (MTI), the most prestigious show licensing company in the world, has created a major international celebration called “All Together Now!” - A Global Event Celebrating Local Theatre. It is their response to the COVID-19 pandemic and a way to bring all theatres together from around the world to perform an exclusive musical revue featuring songs from MTI’s beloved shows while helping theatres raise much needed funds to recover from full shutdowns during the pandemic.Over 3,300 theatre companies around the world will be performing the show at the exact same time from Nov 12-15, 2021! Our show cast will include 11 professional singer/dancers from 14 years of past and present TheatreWorks Florida productions. There are also 5 local ‘child stars’ in the show who will work right along side our professionals! - CONTINUED ON PAGE 64 -

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Join us every Saturday morning to celebrate a healthy and connected community supporting small, local businesses. The Winter Haven Farmers Market features a wide variety of locally-grown food, artisan food vendors, fresh produce, bakers, seafood, flowers, and a curated group of makers. Grab a bite from the food trucks and eat at the tables under the trees. Slow down and enjoy live music every week, featuring our talented local musicians. Follow us on Facebook for weekly vendor updates. The market is located in the BB&T Bank lot across from Grove Roots Brewery on the NE corner of 3rd St and Ave C SW in Downtown Winter Haven. Interested vendors must apply online.

winterhavenfarmersmarket.com |

@winterhavenfarmersmarket 63

THE MUSIC OF STEVIE WONDER When: Nov. 14, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! 863-294-7469 ANGELS AMONG US When: Nov. 16, 2021 | 5:30-8 p.m. Where: Venue 650 650 6th St. SW, Winter Haven secure.qgiv.com/for/giowh/ event/838045 Please join Girls Inc. of Winter Haven for their annual Angels Among Us event. This festive event will include wonderful food, great auction items, and a cash bar. This event will sell out! Don’t miss out - get your holiday shopping started off right and help Girls Inc. of Winter Haven further its mission of inspiring all girls to be STRONG, SMART & BOLD!

LUNCH & LEARN: ERIC CRUMP, JAMIE BECKETT & ALEX VACHA When: Nov. 19, 2021 | 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Winter Haven Chamber 401 Ave B NW, Winter Haven endeavorwinterhaven.wildapricot.org Endeavor is excited to welcome Featured Speakers Eric Crump, Jamie Beckett and Alex Vacha. Purchase tickets in advance, a delicious lunch will be provided.

GROWING AND COOKING WITH FLORIDA PLANTS When: Nov. 17, 2021 | 1-2 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Interested in growing plants that look pretty and taste good? Join UF/IFAS Extension experts in the Outdoor Kitchen and learn how to grow and prepare plants that grow well in central Florida yards. This workshop includes a cooking demonstration. $10 members/ $20 non-members, registration required.863-734-1222

CARIBBEAN CHILLERZ: THE MUSIC OF JIMMY BUFFET When: Nov. 18, 2021 | 7-9 p.m. Where: Downtown Lake Wales, Stuart Ave centralfloridatix.com The Caribbean Chillers are a dynamic Florida-based Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band that brings you the SIGHTS and SOUNDS, and the FUN of a real Jimmy Buffett Concert! Bring a chair or blanket to sit on, purchase tickets in advance. Sponsored by SouthState Bank, Presented by Lake Wales Main Street & Lake Wales Arts Council.

3RD THURSDAY MARKET When: Nov. 18, 2021 | 4-7 p.m. Where: Lake Wales The Market will feature a variety of produce, artisan food vendors, plants, a pinch of crafts and a mind blowing food truck. Located in Downtown Lake Wales in the parking lot on Stuart Avenue and Scenic Highway. Just look for the bright “orange” mural. Every month on the 3rd Thursday. Presented by Lake Wales Main Street. More info on Facebook @LakeWales3rdthursdaymarket

FAIRY HOUSE BUILDING When: Nov. 19 & 20, 2021 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join the Fairyhouse Ladies, Vikki and Rhonda, for a two-day workshop in the Olmsted House, where you build a beautiful fairy house creation using found natural materials and other items. $55 members/ $65 non-members, registration required. 863-734-1222

DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 19, 2021 | 8-11 p.m. Where: The Social Cocktail Lounge 356 3rd St NW, Winter Haven danielpepinusic.com Join us for some exceptional drinks and exquisite music! THE JAMES TAYLOR EXPERIENCE When: Nov. 19, 2021 | 8 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under - CONTINUED ON PAGE 66 -

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the stars! The James Taylor Experience Featuring the Fire & Rain Band recreates the intimate energy of a live James Taylor Concert from his heyday in the late 70’s/ early 80’s. This dynamic show includes note-perfect renditions of all the songs you love from James Taylor. 863-294-7469 YOGA FOR KIDS When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 9-10 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales Introduce your children to a gentle, child centered yoga practice that focuses on stress relief, anger management, self-awareness and positive self-image. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat, towel or blanket, and water to stay hydrated. Ages 5 and up. No experience necessary. $10 members/ $15 nonmembers, registration required. 863-734-1222 OUTDOOR YOGA When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 9-10 a.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Have a morning of bending, breathing

SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 3:30 p.m. Where: The Bike Shop 249 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven Bring your bike and meet at the Bike Shop of Winter Haven. As a group “slow roll” through Downtown Winter Haven, stop at Lake Silver to watch the worldfamous Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team perform and then head back to Grove Roots to hang out! Free & family-friendly. More info on FB @slowrollskishow

and relaxing in the great outdoors. This inclusive class includes gentle yoga movements that move your spine in all directions, breathing techniques and extended relaxation infused with a sprinkling of yoga philosophy. All levels are welcome. $10 members/ $15 nonmembers, registration required. 863-734-1222 WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, unusual food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of curated makers. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music + tables and chairs to sit and relax at. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in Downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. Interested vendors apply online.

CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI SHOW When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 4:00 p.m. Where: American Legion Post 8 300 Ave M NW, Winter Haven On the 3rd Saturday of each month, bring a chair or blanket and watch the world famous ski team perform on Lake Silver. Watch from American Legion Post 8, 300 Ave M NW in Downtown Winter Haven while MLK Park is under construction. ART OUT LOUD When: Nov. 20, 2021 - Jan. 02, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Artwork by Polk County Middle School Students.The museum hosts several

start your black friday morning with

exhibitions per year in the George Jenkins Gallery that feature artwork by Polk County School District students. DOCENT-LED TOURS When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Free for everyone.Get a fresh look into the Museum’s featured exhibition through an informative and engaging conversation with one of the passionate docents. Learn the stories behind the work and dive into the world of art.Registration is not required. ARCHITECTURAL TOUR When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 11 a.m. Where: Polk County History Center 100 E Main St, Bartow polk-county.net/history-center/ education Discover the history behind the founding of the county and the design of the brilliant 1908 Courthouse. With a nod to its two predecessors, this tour explores the design, construction, and function of the courthouse. The tour incorporates cross-curricular themes in history and fine arts. 863-534-4381 - CONTINUED ON PAGE 68 -

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DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Swan Brewing 115 W Pine St, Lakeland danielpepinmusic.com Join us for an amazing night of great drinks, food, and music!Also, DOG Friendly! 34TH ANNUAL MARGARITA BALL When: Nov. 20, 2021 | 8-11 p.m. Where: Lake Mirror, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland LakelandMargaritaBall.com The Lakeland Margarita Society is proud to announce that the 34th annual Margarita Ball is back! Guests can expect to enjoy an evening of live music, hors d’oeurves, margaritas and more from local restaurants and bars. The event aims to raise donations of gifts and cash which are distributed throughout the greater Lakeland area to local charity organizations. In addition to purchasing a ticket, guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped gift (or cash donation) that they can drop off at the entry gate before enjoying a lively community event

full of friends, great local food and of course, margaritas. Admission is $65 in advance, plus one unwrapped toy at the gate. Purchase tickets in advance.

refreshments and snacks available for purchase. Everyone will have the opportunity to participate and share what inspires them! Doors open @ 6:00 pm and readings start @ 6:30 pm. Check back regularly for updates at the Just Cares Poetry Corner on Facebook.

DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 21, 2021 | 2:30-5:30 p.m. Where: The Twisted Prop Bar and Grill 615 7th St. SW, Winter Haven danielpepinmusic.com Join us for some great drinks, food (ASTOUNDING wings!!!), and music from Daniel Pepin.

THE MUSIC OF CROSBY, STILLS, NASH AND YOUNG When: Nov. 21, 2021 | 7 p.m. Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium 500 Cletus Allen Drive Winter Haven theaterwinterhaven.com Performed outdoors near the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars!Gates open at 6 pm, show starts at 7 pm. 863-294-7469

POETRY, SPOKEN WORD, AND OPEN MIC NIGHT When: Nov. 21, 2021 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Stage Room Lakeland 310 E Lemon St., Lakeland Just Cares, Inc. is a 501(C)3 located in the heart of Downtown Lakeland, Florida. Just Cares, Inc. presents a FREE Poetry, Spoken Word, and Open Mic Night every 3rd Sunday of the month to help promote the sharing of writings, inspirations, and thoughts for our community. You can share your own work or read from your favorite poets and/or writers. Light

BASIC SEWING FOR CHILDREN When: Nov. 22, 2021 | 1-3:30 p.m. Where: Lake Wales Public Library 290 Cypress Garden Lane Lake Wales The classes will be taught by Jodie Schmidt and Diana Davila. These

classes provide instruction in safely using a sewing machine, threading a machine and joining fabric. Also included are pinning, feeding, hemming, decorative stitching and other skills. Basic Sewing for Children will be held during Thanksgiving Break, Monday through Wednesday, November 22 through 24, 1 until 3:30 p.m. Registrations are accepted for children ages 8 through 12. Register by calling 863-678-4004, ext. 221 or emailing, library@lakewalesfl. gov. Participants will complete multiple projects during the class sessions. All supplies are provided. THANKSGIVING When: Nov. 25, 2021 HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND When: Nov. 26, 2021 | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Where: LEGOLAND Florida 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven legoland.com/florida The holidays at LEGOLAND feature a giant LEGO Christmas tree, seasonal shows, holiday characters, special treats, - CONTINUED ON PAGE 70 -

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Exciting changes are here We’re excited to announce that Spring Haven is under new management and is now a Senior Lifestyle community! Come visit to see our exceptional hospitality and care for yourself. We’d love to show you around and treat you to lunch. Call to schedule your visit today.

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14th Annual Meals on Wheels Fundraiser Sponsors Who Make a Difference

The Meals on Wheels of Polk County Board of Directors, Staff, Volunteers and the

Recipients who benefit from your generosity express their sincere gratitude to the following sponsors. Through support and help from our community we can continue helping the homebound remain independent in their homes.

Top Sponsor: Knights of Columbus Council 7091 gave $10,000 this year. “Puttin on the Ritz” $5,000 Sponsors Publix Super Markets Charities * Judy and Dave MacDougall “Shine on you Crazy Diamond” $2,500 Sponsors Employer Payroll Solutions *John Wood Realty Ken Nelson * Tally-Ho Jewelers “Heart of Gold” $1,000 Sponsors Advent Health * All About Aging * Carden * Centennial Bank * Certipay E. Luis Campano * Fran D’Agostino * GEICO Philanthropic Foundation Gordon & Shirley Rafool * John J. Jerue Truck Broker, Inc. Kindred Hospital Bay Area * Maxijet * Michael & Gerri Castrilli Mister Landscaper * Oak Ridge Funeral Care Peterson & Myers, P.A. * Raymond James - Brad Dantzler, AAMS Rem & Caryl Brown * South State Bank * State Farm - Dan Mann Agent Straughn & Turner P.A. * Tucker Paving, Inc.

GET YOUR AUTOMOBILE RUNNING AT ITS BEST

“The Glamorous Life” $500 Sponsors

Advanced Eyecare Associates * Arrington’s Body Shop Kathy Arrington Bartow Ford * BKS Partners * Central Florida Roofing Collany Properties * DAR Ponce de Leon Chapter * Doug & Trish Stanforth Edward Jones James Faubert, Tracey Bourdon & Brittney Oakes Edward Jones Adam Mayfield * Empire Imported Parts & Service Gary & Sara Test * Groover Exterminating, Inc. * Kennon Family Lake Howard Heights * Lilly & Brown LLP * TECO Tourist with Tots Christen & Rian Shea * Watson Clinic LLP Wauchula State Bank * William “Billy Bob” Morris Women of the Moose Lakeland Chapter 1063

“One on one service always treated like family”

“Sharp Dressed Man” $300 Sponsors

Badcock Home Furniture & More Eagle Lake * Brooks Law Group Central Buick GMC * Chevrolet Center * Citizens Bank * Food Partners Gator Pressure Cleaning & Custom Painting * HPN Global (Steve & Laura Griffith) Jay Burns Crown Shredding * Oasis Christian Academy Precision Safe & Lock, LLC * Representative Sam Killebrew Robinson’s Auto Body * Schack’s BBQ * Senior Helpers State Farm Teresa Connell Agent * Tinsley Family Concessions, Inc. Town & Courtry Real Estate * Tropical Tax Solutions * UFCW Local 1625 US Foods * Vass Holdings * Warren Construction WCM Roofing Victor Smith Law Group * Winter Haven Dermatology, P.A. Dr. Stepan Oliva, M.D.

Donors:

Angry Anubis Art - Digital Media - Photography * Black Oak Creative Coastal Acoustic Barefoot Music * Dean Crowell - Catering HAVEN * Longhorn Steakhouse *Mahalak Auto Group * Marine Supply Olive Garden Italian Restaurant * Smokin’Jim’s House of Bar-B-Q * Burr Printing

Locally owned & operated since 1971

Thank You!

To all attendees of “Bling It On” for making a difference in the lives of the Meals on Wheels Homebound Recipients.

500 Ave D NW, Winter Haven || 863.294.4261 69

LEGO® activities, twinkling lights and more!November 26-28 & December 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 24-31 DANIEL PEPIN LIVE When: Nov. 26, 2021 | 7-10 p.m. Where: Front Page Brewing 190 South Florida Ave, Bartow danielpepinmusic.com Join Daniel Pepin (this years Haven’s Best Musician Winner!) for his first time at Front Page Brewing! THE SOUND OF MUSIC When: Nov. 26 - Dec. 19, 2021 Where: Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd. Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com No show Thanksgiving on Nov. 25. The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical. The Sound of Music won the hearts of audiences worldwide, earning five Tony Awards and five Oscars. The

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inspirational story, based on the memoir of Maria Augusta Trapp, follows an ebullient postulate who serves as governess to the seven children of the imperious Captain von Trapp, bringing music and joy to the household. Purchase tickets in advance. 863-294-7469

picked produce. Live music + tables and chairs to sit and relax at.Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in Downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. Interested vendors apply online. DISCOVER ROSELLE HIBISCUS When: Nov. 27, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Where: Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Stop by the Outdoor Kitchen to sample Roselle Hibiscus, grown right there in the Outdoor Kitchen Garden. Used throughout the Caribbean as a festive Christmas Sorrel drink, come and sample the tangy flavors of this African native plant and discover why it was known to Florida pioneers as the Florida Cranberry. No registration required.Included with general admission or membership.No Registration required

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY When: Nov. 27, 2021 Support your local, small businesses this holiday season! Check your favorite local shops for special events. WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Nov. 27, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, unusual food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of curated makers. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly

MUSEUM STORE SUNDAY When: Nov. 28, 2021 | 1-5 p.m. Where: Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org “Be A Patron” You will find quality gifts, handcrafted items, and local finds. Best of all, your purchase will directly support Polk Museum of Art. Members receive discounts. The first 21 shoppers on Museum Store Sunday will receive a surprise with their purchase. In store only. All online purchases receive 15% off. Enter code “MSS15” at checkout. First online purchase will receive a free PMoA Household Membership. 863-688-7743 *Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house.

This fall Bok Tower Gardens is championing the importance of native plants and wildlife. Take a stroll through the Pine Ridge Preserve and enjoy the autumn wildflower bloom or sit back and watch a kaleidoscope of butterflies in the Pollinator Garden.

FUNK UP YOUR FALL CONCERT SERIES Funk up your Fall season with some of the areas’ best Funk bands. Concerts take place on the Oval lawn. Ticket price for each concert is $20 members/$35 non-members. THE ALL-STAR JAM NOVEMBER 12

1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG

Ewing, Blackwelder & Duce Insurance

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

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Karl Duce, AAI

635 1st St., Winter Haven

1330 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven

Phone: 863-293-4864

Phone: 863-293-2838

Agent

@ebdinsonline

Sold Dollar Home 13.11% 2020: $317,508,718 2021: $359,147,773

Avg. Sale Price 21.75% 2020: $234,497 2021: $285,491

Units Sold

How Many Buyers Are Looking For Your House?

-7.09% 2020: 1,354 2021: 1,258

Active Listings -45.82% 2020: 2,071 2021: 1,122 havenmagazines.com

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

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

Numbers reflect sums for September of 2020 & 2021 in Polk County 72

SOLD HOMES

3606 WELLINGTON LN.......................... BARTOW......... 8/23/2021.............257000 644 EISENHOWER ST............................ BARTOW......... 8/20/2021............ 290000 970 WILDWOOD DR.............................. BARTOW......... 8/20/2021.............362500

AUBURNDALE

1040 TRASK LN...................................... BARTOW..........8/27/2021............ 520000

5311 BERKLEY RD........................... AUBURNDALE.......... 9/16/2021.............. 70000

6034 WATERWOOD PATH..................... BARTOW......... 8/26/2021............ 579000

206 EAKER ST................................ AUBURNDALE......... 9/20/2021............. 107000

DAVENPORT

507 ESPERANZA RD....................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/25/2021............. 125000

129 SILVER MAPLE BND.....................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 100000

716 VIRGINIA AVE.......................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/23/2021............. 187000

412 BUTTON SAGE LN.......................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 100000

1800 LAKE ARIANA BLVD.............. AUBURNDALE..........8/27/2021............. 215000

1036 DEER CREEK BLVD...................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............130000

105 COLLEEN CT............................ AUBURNDALE......... 8/20/2021............. 216000

301 SIESTA VISTA CT.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............. 131600

327 LAKE VAN RD.......................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/24/2021.............225000

313 SIESTA VISTA CT.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............. 131600

228 CASCARA LN.......................... AUBURNDALE..........8/27/2021............ 269000

225 HAMLET LOOP...........................DAVENPORT......... 8/26/2021............. 182000

371 BOLENDER RD......................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/20/2021.............273000

374 HAMLET LOOP...........................DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021............. 182000

213 LAKEVIEW DR.......................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/24/2021............ 285000

378 HAMLET LOOP...........................DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021............. 182000

248 WALKERS POINT DR............... AUBURNDALE......... 8/20/2021............. 301600

1317 POWER LINE RD........................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............210000

303 TRAVELERS CREEK DR........... AUBURNDALE......... 8/20/2021..............321500

320 MIRAMAR AVE...........................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021.............227000

107 LAKEVIEW DR......................... AUBURNDALE........... 9/8/2021.............322000

2556 BELLA VISTA DR.......................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 230000

100 EVERGREEN DR...................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/26/2021..............327100

373 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD............DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............. 251000

334 LAKE VISTA DR....................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/30/2021............ 390500

210 E ORANGE ST.............................DAVENPORT.......... 8/21/2021.............263700

269 LAKE VISTA DR....................... AUBURNDALE......... 8/24/2021............ 393900

218 CARRERA AVE............................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 268000

BARTOW

162 VINE DR......................................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 269900

4545 TRANSPORT RD........................... BARTOW......... 8/20/2021.............. 75000

418 JACKS WAY.................................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............275000

4649 WESTON RD................................. BARTOW......... 8/24/2021.............. 85000

757 SAVANNAH PRESERVE LOOP.....DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021............ 278000

1412 LAUREL TREE WAY......................... BARTOW......... 8/25/2021..............90000

414 JACKS WAY.................................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............280000

775 FLORAL AVE.................................... BARTOW......... 8/20/2021.............140000

519 JACKS WAY.................................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021.............283500

2055 S FLORAL AVE LOT 236................. BARTOW......... 8/26/2021.............145000

517 WILDCAT LN...............................DAVENPORT............9/7/2021............ 284900

1185 SUNSET AVE................................... BARTOW......... 8/20/2021............200000

313 FIDDLEWOOD CT.......................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021.............285500

475 EASY ST........................................... BARTOW.......... 9/15/2021............200000

126 BLUE CYPRESS DR......................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 289300

905 W PEARL......................................... BARTOW......... 8/30/2021............. 215000

252 FOXTAIL LOOP...........................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021............ 289800

920 LAKESHORE BLVD.......................... BARTOW......... 8/20/2021.............229900

518 SONJA CIR..................................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 290000 - CONTINUED ON PAGE 74 -

108 FOXTAIL LOOP...........................DAVENPORT.......... 8/21/2021............. 301200

5332 CORTLAND DR.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021............ 350000

213 SIESTA VISTA CT.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 309300

542 ROCHESTER LOOP....................DAVENPORT......... 8/26/2021............ 350000

776 BROOKLET DR...........................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021............. 310500

922 GRAZIE LOOP............................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 354600

809 MARCEL LOOP..........................DAVENPORT......... 8/26/2021............. 310600

217 SIESTA VISTA CT.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021.............355500

517 VISTA VILLAGES BLVD................DAVENPORT......... 8/26/2021............. 312600

1390 FOX SQUIRREL DR...................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021............ 368000

120 HIGH POINT DR..........................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021............ 320000

508 ZAMORA WAY...........................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 368000

1030 CYPRESS FOX BLVD.................DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021..............321500

2345 CAMDEN PARK AVE.................DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021.............375300

3923 MARBELLA WAY.......................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............323600

137 NORFOLK DR..............................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............376500

1059 CYPRESS FOX BLVD..................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............324500

228 VICTORY AVE............................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 385000

309 MIRO DR....................................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021.............324700

2650 ROSEMONT CIR.......................DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021............. 390100

509 VISTA VILLAGES BLVD...............DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021.............325500

255 CORDOVA AVE...........................DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021........... 400000

1262 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD..........DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021.............329300

152 WHIRLAWAY DR.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/26/2021............450000

1026 CYPRESS FOX BLVD..................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021............ 330000

7535 OAKMOSS LOOP......................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 506600

145 HILLTOP ST.................................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............ 330000

7551 OAKMOSS LOOP......................DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021.............. 513100

1339 FOX SQUIRREL DR....................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021............ 334000

7539 OAKMOSS LOOP.....................DAVENPORT......... 8/20/2021.............532600

2532 CAMDEN PARK CIR..................DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021............ 338400

5480 SOLTERRA CIR........................DAVENPORT......... 8/24/2021............ 545000

2509 CAMDEN PARK CIR..................DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021.............338500

HAINES CITY

407 SADDLE RIDGE DR....................DAVENPORT......... 8/25/2021............340000

5000 BAKER DAIRY RD................... HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021.............. 50000

1266 CITRUS LANDINGS BLVD..........DAVENPORT..........8/27/2021.............347500

5351 JOHNSON AVE......................... HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021.............. 50000

713 OLD BRIDGE CIR.........................DAVENPORT......... 8/23/2021............348000

15 2ND ST......................................... HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021.............. 75000

SAVE BIG ON hOmE AND AutO INSurANcE SAVE BIG ON hOmE AND CURRENTAutO INSurANcE SAVINGS CURRENT OFFERS SAVINGS OFFERS

Your local Farmers agent currently offers savings for:

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Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states. Restrictions apply. Discounts mayNew vary.World Not available in all states. See your Insurance is underwritten Life Insurance issued by Farmers Life Insurance Company, 3120agent 139thfor Ave.details. SE, Ste. 300, Bellevue, WA 98005.by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states. Life Insurance issued by Farmers New World Life Insurance Company, 3120 139th Ave. SE, Ste. 300, Bellevue, WA 98005.

Great Great rates! rates! Call Call now! now!

863.259.1826 863.259.1826

Fred Simons III, CLU, ChFC

Fred Simons III, CLU, ChFC Your Local Agent 325 AVENUE C SW Your Local Agent WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 FSIMONS@FARMERSAGENT.COM 325 AVENUE C SW https://agents.farmers.com/fsimons WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

FSIMONS@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/fsimons

havenmagazines.com

1064 KOBUK ST............................... HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021............. 107200

124 DENALI ST................................. HAINES CITY..........9/14/2021.............276300

1137 CATSKILL DR............................ HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021............. 107200

277 CITRUS POINTE DR................... HAINES CITY..........8/27/2021............. 286100

4435 US HIGHWAY 17 92................. HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021............. 125000

643 WASHINGTON WAY.................. HAINES CITY..........8/27/2021............ 290000

6929 WILBAR LN............................. HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021.............144000

632 BOARDWALK AVE..................... HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021............. 291000

112 PENINSULAR AVE....................... HAINES CITY..........8/27/2021.............160000

136 DENALI ST................................. HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021............. 291200

2457 ST AUGUSTINE BLVD.............. HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021............200000

527 NOBLE AVE................................ HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021............. 291300

417 5TH ST N.................................... HAINES CITY......... 8/25/2021............ 205000

1422 LASSEN ST............................... HAINES CITY......... 8/26/2021............300900

4542 HUMMINGBIRD LN................. HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021.............. 219100

1169 CATSKILL DR............................ HAINES CITY.......... 9/15/2021............. 313500

314 BRIARBROOK LN....................... HAINES CITY..........8/27/2021.............227000

141 DENALI ST.................................. HAINES CITY......... 8/25/2021.............322800

129 FLORA DR.................................. HAINES CITY......... 8/30/2021............ 230000

917 ROYALE CT................................ HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021.............324500

4251 SWAN ST.................................. HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021..............231500

237 MILESTONE DR......................... HAINES CITY......... 8/24/2021............ 325000

1419 LASSEN ST................................ HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021............ 243400

2400 SANDERLING ST..................... HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021.............337000

1414 LASSEN ST................................ HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021............ 244300

1141 HENDON LOOP......................... HAINES CITY......... 8/26/2021............. 359100

444 TORTUGAS ST.......................... HAINES CITY......... 8/26/2021.............248700

35 PINE FOREST LN.......................... HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021.............375000

422 HARBOURVIEW DR.................. HAINES CITY.......... 8/31/2021............ 250000

1013 HENDON LOOP........................ HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021............ 463000

4203 SWAN ST................................. HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021..............251300

2953 CHICKASAW CIR..................... HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021............ 505000

4275 SWAN ST................................. HAINES CITY......... 8/26/2021.............253400

3101 LAKE LOWERY RD.................... HAINES CITY..........8/27/2021............ 595000

1156 CATSKILL DR............................ HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021............. 261600

LAKE WALES

1193 CATSKILL DR............................ HAINES CITY......... 8/23/2021.............266500

2624 SHINER DR...............................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021..............60000

304 BOARDWALK AVE.................... HAINES CITY......... 8/20/2021.............267500

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 76 -

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863-400-5080 • WindowWorldPolkCounty.com 101 Industrial Blvd. West, Winter Haven, FL PROUDLY SERVING THESE COUNTIES WITH FREE IN-HOME QUOTES: Hardee^ • Highlands • Osceola^ • Polk

This Window World® franchise is independently owned and operated by Window World of Polk County Inc. d/b/a Window World of Lakeland under license from Window World Inc. Fully licensed & insured. License No. CBC1257854 ^Also serving. Previous sales are excluded and offers cannot be combined. Minimum 10% down required when ordering. 1All payments based at 7.99% APR. Bank approval needed. Must qualify. Ask for details. 2No interest if paid in full within 15 months with regular monthly payments. Bank approval needed. Must qualify. Ask for details. 3All payments based on 10 squares at 7.99% APR for 60 months. Bank approval needed. Must qualify. Ask for details.

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1207 HWY 60....................................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021...............72000

2300 SCENIC HWY...........................LAKE WALES......... 8/25/2021............. 672700

8442 BREEZE HILL DR......................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021.............. 78900

LAKELAND

246 SADDLE LN................................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021..............80000

6320 WOODHAVEN........................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021...............53500

122 STALLION LN...............................LAKE WALES......... 8/23/2021...............92500

3804 BLOCK PRINE RD....................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............. 58000

218 GENESIS POINTE DR...................LAKE WALES......... 8/23/2021.............. 96500

1250 PINTAIL PL.................................. LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021.............. 67000

2201 CLUB CIR..................................LAKE WALES......... 8/23/2021.............105000

1303 SKYVIEW BLVD........................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021.............. 67900

9162 LAKE POINT BLVD....................LAKE WALES..........8/27/2021............. 107000

1002 JOSEPHINE ST............................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021.............. 75000

5248 TIMBERLANE RD......................LAKE WALES......... 8/25/2021............. 135900

4525 NUNNSWOOD LN...................... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021.............. 75000

1024 HIGH VIEW DR.........................LAKE WALES......... 8/30/2021............. 165000

1610 REYNOLDS RD 126...................... LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021.............. 85000

562 WATERWAY DR..........................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021............. 175000

722 FOREST LAKE DR......................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............. 89900

520 9TH ST.......................................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021............. 179000

1463 RIDGE LAKE CT.......................... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021..............115000

3606 CANAL RD...............................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021............200000

706 KELSEY CT................................... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021..............115000

719 HILLSIDE AVE..............................LAKE WALES......... 8/23/2021............ 200600

5302 FLORIDA AVE............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............. 127000

935 CHELSEA WAY...........................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021.............228200

1001 PINEWOOD AVE......................... LAKELAND.......... 9/15/2021.............140000

4614 BROOKSHIRE PL......................LAKE WALES..........8/27/2021............ 234900

1314 HIGHLAND ST............................. LAKELAND.......... 9/15/2021.............140000

1107 YARNELL DR..............................LAKE WALES......... 8/20/2021............240000

1316 HIGHLAND ST............................. LAKELAND.......... 9/15/2021.............140000

235 LAKE SUZANNE DR....................LAKE WALES.......... 9/15/2021..............251500

1318 W HIGHLAND ST......................... LAKELAND.......... 9/15/2021.............140000

4608 BROOKSHIRE PL.....................LAKE WALES..........8/27/2021............ 266400

1540 HUNTINGTON ST....................... LAKELAND............ 9/1/2021............. 147000

4719 BROOKSHIRE CT......................LAKE WALES..........8/27/2021.............274000

3504 CHRISTINA GROVES CIR........... LAKELAND......... 8/30/2021..............160100

3514 RED OAK ST..............................LAKE WALES..........8/27/2021............ 330000

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 77 -

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

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

PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL TOUR Haines City 863.968.7851

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

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Bartow 863.578.8503

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

SIGNATURE COMMUNITIES OF SENIOR LIVING MANAGEMENT CORP 76

Lake Wales 863.679.8246

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

6047 CRAFTON DR............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............. 165000

7208 VICTORIA RD............................. LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 285600

5711 LACAR WAY................................. LAKELAND......... 8/30/2021............. 189700

6411 BUTTERNUT DR.......................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 289900

6627 TRAIL RIDGE DR........................ LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............199000

135 YOUNG PL.................................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 290000

707 CARPENTERS WAY APT 37........... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021.............199000

2112 WEST END AVE............................ LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 290000

635 MERIDIAN AVE............................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............. 204100

2915 KOHEN CT.................................. LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............. 292700

304 INTERLACHEN PKWY.................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 205000

1890 GREY FOX DR............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 295000

7531 DOVE MEADOW TRL.................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 206000

2116 SUTTON RIDGE AVE.................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 296000

627 JAMAICA CIR................................ LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............. 218000

6887 BROMPTON DR......................... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021............ 305000

3745 DOVEHOLLOW DR..................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............. 219000

1128 SANDPIPER CT............................ LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021.............310000

7639 CHASE RD.................................. LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021.............227900

3727 PRESCOTT LOOP....................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021.............310000

2938 NORTHBROOK LN..................... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 230000

6951 MAKATI DR................................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............. 313400

4321 TRAIL DR.................................... LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 230000

4273 SALT SPRINGS LN....................... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021............. 315400

850 MIKASUKI DR.............................. LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 235000

6770 HAMPSHIRE BLVD...................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............. 317000

630 EAGLE RUN.................................. LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021.............236500

125 KENTUCKY AVE APT 201............... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 320000

503 NORFOLK CIR.............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............240000

4114 BAYWATER PL............................. LAKELAND..........9/14/2021.............327000

806 MCCRANIE RD............................. LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021............240000

117 PATTEN HGTS ST........................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 330000

505 ELLERBE WAY.............................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 245000

2415 HAMLET CIR............................... LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 330000

1316 JAFFA ST...................................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 250000

7324 LIBERTY RD................................ LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 333400

2924 WARRINGTON AVE.................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............. 252500

1386 WYNGATE DR............................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 335000

2923 KOHEN CT.................................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 259000

6452 LONGOAK CT............................ LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 339000

2410 CASPIAN DR............................... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021.............259600

914 HUNTERS MEADOW LN............... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............. 341500

208 MILLARD AVE.............................. LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021.............259900

735 ROYAL GLEN DR........................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............ 345000

219 BOBBIE CIR................................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 260000

5011 LAKEVIEW BLVD......................... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 350000

8520 CHERRY HILL DR....................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 260000

5419 CLUB HL..................................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............ 350000

7137 VICTORIA RD.............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021.............269500

5827 TROPHY LOOP........................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 350000

2709 HANDLEY BLVD......................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 269900

5428 WEBER PL.................................. LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021............ 355000

7342 LIBERTY RD................................ LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............275000

4705 LATHLOA LOOP......................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............360000

2865 GRANDBURY GROVE RD........... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............275800

920 HUNTERS MEADOW LN.............. LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 370800

1705 DANA PL..................................... LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021............280000

6258 CORNERSTONE DR.................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............375000

311 MARCUM TRACE DR..................... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 280300

4417 ORANGEWOOD LOOP............... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021.............375900

4078 SOLAMOR ST............................ LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 284800

6110 WENDEL WAY............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 383000 - CONTINUED ON PAGE 78 -

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5835 TROPHY LOOP.......................... LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021........... 400000

102 HARBOR DR..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............. 95000

1017 STONEY CREEK DR..................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021.............415000

900 23RD ST................................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............. 110000

3031 JENNA MAE WAY......................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 425000

2904 NW AVENUE V....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021...............110100

5932 BUCK RUN DR............................ LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021............ 465600

218 DENNIS AVE...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021.............120000

1919 FARRINGTON DR......................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............480000

129 PALM DR................................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............. 135000

2832 SHELDON ST.............................. LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............499000

235 6TH ST APT 606....................WINTER HAVEN........... 9/8/2021.............140000

5239 SLIGH RD................................... LAKELAND......... 8/26/2021............ 505000

130 CENTER ST............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021.............150000

3339 PEARLY DR................................. LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............. 514200

7803 WATERVIEW WAY...............WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021..............151000

4448 FLINTLOCK LOOP..................... LAKELAND......... 8/24/2021............. 515000

1415 AVENUE D............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............160000

8703 SCANDINAVIA BLVD.................. LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 520000

231 KILMER LN.............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021.............160000

6883 LACY DR.................................... LAKELAND......... 8/25/2021.............562500

2210 SAWGRASS CT.....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/25/2021............. 162500

894 CLEARVIEW AVE......................... LAKELAND..........8/27/2021............ 645000

306 DILLON ST............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/24/2021............. 168700

9340 REDHAWK BEND DR................. LAKELAND......... 8/23/2021............ 935000

2823 WINGFOOT CT....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021.............185000

5428 FLORIDA AVE............................. LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 1412500

3323 AVENUE J.............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021.............190000

5430 S FLORIDA AVE.......................... LAKELAND......... 8/20/2021............ 1412500

717 17TH ST..................................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021..............191000

WINTER HAVEN

175 N OSPREY HEIGHTS DR.........WINTER HAVEN..........8/27/2021............200000 448 AVENUE B.............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021............200000

3327 FOX RIDGE DR.....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021.............. 59000

890 REFLECTIONS LOOP............WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............. 215000

820 CHANNING ST......................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021...............59200

5962 FOX HOLLOW DR................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021..............217500

1109 EAGLE CLAW LN...................WINTER HAVEN.......... 8/21/2021............... 77200

1529 HAINES DR...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021............. 219000

1117 EAGLE CLAW LN....................WINTER HAVEN.......... 8/21/2021............... 77200

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 80 -

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215 SW 24TH CT...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/24/2021............ 220000

167 LAKE THOMAS DR.................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021............. 315000

1486 HAINES DR..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021............. 221000

264 LAKE SMART CIR..................WINTER HAVEN........... 9/9/2021.............323400

673 AVENUE F..............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 9/15/2021............ 230000

325 NIBLICK CIR..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............ 325000

318 LAKE DAISY LOOP.................WINTER HAVEN..........8/27/2021............ 233000

1970 8TH TER..............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............ 329000

4039 CARTERET DR....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/25/2021............ 235000

1426 AVENUE H...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/24/2021............ 345000

240 KENSINGTON VIEW BLVD....WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............235800

100 MAJESTIC GARDENS CT........WINTER HAVEN......... 8/30/2021............ 359000

1540 HAINES DR..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021.............243500

714 AVENUE O.............................WINTER HAVEN........... 9/9/2021............ 359000

300 OKALOOSA DR....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/30/2021............ 245000

101 WALDEMAR CT......................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021............360000

1132 CAMBRIDGE DR...................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/25/2021.............252000

5176 PEBBLE BEACH BLVD...........WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............ 367000

2500 AVENUE J............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............ 253000

159 BROAD ST..............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............379600

884 VIENNA DR...........................WINTER HAVEN..........8/27/2021............ 254600

1916 ELOISE COVE DR..................WINTER HAVEN..........8/27/2021............ 465000

1178 YUMURI ST...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021............. 258100

1629 CRUMP RD..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............ 470000

222 TERRANOVA BLVD................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021.............267000

109 SE AVENUE C.........................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............500000

444 MCKENNA DR......................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............275600

290 1ST ST....................................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021............500000

1335 BENEVENTO DR...................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021.............278800

2564 PARTRIDGE DR...................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/25/2021............ 545000

140 MORNING GLORY CIR..........WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021............280000

4507 CRYSTAL BEACH RD...........WINTER HAVEN......... 8/23/2021............ 550000

668 VITTORIO DR.......................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/24/2021............. 281500

120 MIRROR LN............................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/25/2021............ 652000

475 MAJESTIC GARDENS BLVD....WINTER HAVEN......... 8/26/2021............ 285000

217 KENSINGTON VIEW BLVD......WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............789300

1206 ZAMBRANA CT....................WINTER HAVEN......... 8/24/2021.............299700

228 KENSINGTON VIEW BLVD.....WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............789300

1143 SAWGRASS DR.....................WINTER HAVEN..........8/27/2021.............304100

232 KENSINGTON VIEW BLVD.....WINTER HAVEN......... 8/20/2021.............789300

756 SANTA MARIA DR.................WINTER HAVEN..........9/14/2021............ 307000

Caffeinating the community since 1996

Pumpkin Spice Latte Open 7 Days A Week • 863-291-3082

Located Downtown Winter Haven

Fashion Snack Bar • Home Décor First time shoppers receive 10% off 1 item

Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm

333 Ave C SW, Winter Haven | 863.845.5001 havenmagazines.com

Archangel Sponsor

Sam & Eileen Killebrew

Please join us for the evening or become a sponsor for this wonderful event Tuesday, November 16th | 5:30pm – 8pm | Venue 650 650 6th Street SW, Winter Haven Enjoy delicious hors d’oeurves, live and silent auction, great fellowship and a champagne reception brought to you by Bank of Central Florida Start your holiday season with joy as you support our mission of inspiring all girls to be STRONG, SMART and BOLD $60/single or $100/couple To save your spot, please mail your check by November 11th, use the QR code or visit secure.qgiv.com/for/giowh/event/838045

Girls Incorporated of Winter Haven P.O. Box 7285 Winter Haven FL 33883-7285 863–967–2874 | peggy@girlsincwinterhaven.org

Sponsors:

Girls Incorporated of Winter Haven

A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free (800-435-7352) within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. registration number CH-160. Girls Incorporated of Winter Haven employs no professional solicitors. havenmagazines.com

UPCOMING SHOWS NOV. 6

RITZ OPEN HOUSE! Give Thanks, The Ritz is having an Open House! Our doors will be open from 9AM-3PM. During which we will be showing “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” on our screen (on a loop).

NOV. 13

OUT OF THE BOX IMPROV A cast of actors will act out a scene based on ideas given by YOU, the audience! Remember, laugh at us, not with us!

NOV. 20

CONCERTOS AND COCKTAILS A unique musical series experienced in an intimate and breathtaking setting. Immerse yourself in the artistry of the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra string quartet, while awash in the warm glow of candlelight in Winter Haven’s downtown treasure, The Historic Ritz Theatre.

DEC. 4

BANDIT MARKET Bandit Market is an alternative holiday market where the cool kids shop for local, handmade, and vintage items from Central Florida makers.

DEC. 10

OUT OF THE BOX IMPROV A cast of actors will act out a scene based on ideas given by YOU, the audience! Remember, laugh at us, not with us!

DEC. 18

BLUE CHRISTMAS ELVIS TRIBUTE Born four years after the King passed away, Dwight has studied every move that Elvis made and has mastered the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s eras of Elvis’ career. Dwight Icenhower returns to the stage of the Historic Ritz Theater with his tribute to Elvis.

• (863) 937-1414 83

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