The Lakelander - Issue 94 by The Lakelander

GiveWell / Take Heart +Top Buttons / Dream Center / Holiday Gift Guide

UrgentCare Carejust justfor foryou. you. Urgent This holiday season, make sure need, when you need This holiday season, make sure youyou getget thethe carecare youyou need, rightright when you need it. Our two convenient Urgent Care locations offer accessible and affordable it. Our two convenient Urgent Care locations offer accessible and affordable care right your neighborhood, so you to spending care right in in your neighborhood, so you cancan get get backback to spending timetime and and making memories with your loved ones. From flu shots to colds, infections, making memories with your loved ones. From flu shots to colds, infections, and and sprains-we treat patients ages 2+ with no appointment needed. sprains-we treat patients ages 2+ with no appointment needed.

Not LRH patient? a problem. welcome all patients to receive Not anan LRH patient? NotNot a problem. We We welcome all patients to receive care even if they established with So come onwe’ll in, we’ll care even if they areare notnot established with LRH.LRH. So come on in, taketake care of the rest! care of the rest! HOURS: Monday - Friday 8am to 8pm I Saturday - Sunday to 5pm HOURS: Monday - Friday 8am to 8pm I Saturday - Sunday 8am8am to 5pm OUR URGENT CARE LOCATIONS: OUR URGENT CARE LOCATIONS:

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ISSUE 94

What Does it Mean to GiveWell? What exactly is the GiveWell Community Foundation and how can they serve as your philanthropic matchmaker? 10

A Dream that Connect Us All Dream Center of Lakeland wants to be the “intersection of everything” in an area of town that has long been searching for a new identity.

GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center Classroom

Top Buttons + Take Heart A pair of local non-profits are helping change lives while serving as spots for trendy apparel and fair trade artisan gifts. Their stories are as compelling as their products.

Lakeland Holiday Gift Guide We make it simple for you to find the perfect local gifts for this holiday season by showcasing distinctive and desired local offerings at all price points.

MASTHEAD

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE BUZZ

CONTRIBUTORS

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO GIVEWELL?

A DREAM THAT CONNECTS US ALL

TOP BUTTONS + TAKEHEART

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

82 HISTORY

MASTHEAD

ISSUE 94

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ADVERTISING

CREATIVE

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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

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The Lakelander is published 12 times annually by Lakelander Media, 1505 Florida Ave. S, Lakeland, FL 33803. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of The Lakelander is prohibited. The Lakelander is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions.

THE LAKELANDER

“ Trust in th e Lord with all your h ear t , an d lean n ot on your own un derstan din g. In all your ways a ckn owledge Him, an d He will direc t your paths.” Proverbs 3:5- 6

CONTACT Lakelander Media, 1505 Florida Ave. S, Lakeland, FL 33803 Customer Service: 863.701.2707 • thelakelander.com

EDITORS NOTE GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94 THE LAKELANDER

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT?

ave you ever received the “perfect” gift, one that comes to mind above all others? It might sound trite or predictable, but for me, it is definitely my wedding ring. It hits the bullseye on what matters most to me in a gift: it’s thoughtful and has deep meaning, it didn’t break the bank (sorry, no diamonds to look at here) and it’s very practical—I’ve worn it every day for more than 15 years. It doesn’t mean the ring didn’t have imperfections or that some might think it’s too common looking to symbolize such a grand occasion or that there wasn’t a better deal to be had, it simply means it was the right gift at the right time for the right person. It’s so easy sometimes during the holidays to become consumed with finding a “perfect” gift by the world’s standards that we actually neglect simply reveling in having relationships that give our lives meaning and purpose. When my 10-year-old daughter was shopping with me recently at a big-box retailer she saw a “special” moisture locking towel that could protect and nourish her beautiful blonde hair. She knows me well and probably expected a sarcastic response along the lines of “What’s wrong with the other 40 towels

at our house?” but I understand (to a small extent) the mind of a 10-year-old girl and I love to make my children smile. In the first two weeks she used the towel probably a dozen times—and although it wouldn’t commonly be looked at as a “gift” and it cost me almost nothing, it provided the gift of cultivating our relationship through a small act of understanding. When you give someone a gift that is thoughtful or is something they really want, they feel seen and valued. When I think about the gift of my family and my friends, and most importantly my Savior Jesus Christ, I feel seen and valued by God. In this magazine are a ton of wonderful gifts made and sold by locals who love to help you make others feel special, and there are also opportunities to see how your gifts of time and money can bless people in your community who you don’t yet even know. As you make your lists and consider your year-end giving this season don’t get caught up in the “perfect” gift, just stay in tune to what means the most to you and those closest to you.

RJ Walters EDITOR

THE BUZZ

AUTO ACCIDENT?

THE BUZZ

THE LAKELANDER

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

COMMENTS FROM LAKELANDERS

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Dr. Abraham New Hope Chiropractic

Phone: (863) 682-1170 4788 S. Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803

CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTORS GABRIELA ANDREWS Gabriela is currently a college student in Lakeland. As a graduate of Harrison School for the Arts’ creative writing program and daughter of two public educators in Polk County, she has grown up loving Lakeland and looks to give back to her community.

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

If not studying, she loves exploring new book stores, going to the beach, window shopping, making playlists, spending time with her little brother and writing.

DIEGO DE JESUS Diego graduated with a bachelor's degree in English from Florida Southern College and has written for The Lakelander since 2022. Originally from New York City, he came down to Lakeland for his education and has made his home here ever since. He continues to pursue a career in journalism while producing creative prose pieces on the side. The friends and connections that he’s made in Lakeland have truly changed his life for the better, and he is forever grateful for the community accepting him.

THE LAKELANDER

EMILY STARLING

Emily is a senior at Florida Southern College who is pursuing a bachelor's degree in communications with a focus in advertising and public relations. She has experience in journalism, digital marketing and design, and she is currently the vice president of the college's Florida Public Relations Association chapter. She has aspirations of one day moving to a big city and working in marketing for a company like Converse, one of her personal favorites.

May you have the

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TeamHubbert.com | 863.243.4024

METRO

Written by RJ Walters Photos by Jordan Randall Designed by Jonathan Sierra

LOCAL

Get to Know the Next Generation of Doctors at Lakeland Regional Health

here’s a new doctor or 70 in town. Lakeland Regional Health launched its first ever residency program, officially called the Graduate Medical Education program, in June, bringing in a group of professionals from around the world to train and meet patient’s needs in seven distinct program areas. The reality for quite a while has been LRH been growing and expanding its offerings and expertise—evident by facts like it is home to the second busiest ER in the country, it is a Level II Trauma Center and it is making a significant difference in the community through the Harrell Family Center for Behavioral Wellness—and LRH can now call itself a teaching hospital, and reap all the advantages that come with that. “The largest hospitals, the highest-ranked hospitals in the country, the ones that everybody wants to go to for their care—they are all teaching hospitals,” said Dr. Nancy Finnigan, Designated Institutional Official for GME. She said immediate benefits of the program include: it helps combat the physician shortage we are navigating in Polk County and Florida, it puts more doctors of different disciplines working together on patient cases and it introduces highlevel medical experts to Lakeland, increasing the likelihood they will call it home for the long haul. A state-of-the-art modern facility for students at the main campus on Lakeland Hills Blvd. has classrooms fitted with new technology, inviting outdoor spaces, sleeping rooms for students working the night shift, welcoming lounges and well equipped kitchen spaces. To build this program from the ground up, Finnigan hired a team of highly-respected leaders, who she jokingly calls a “cast of characters,” to be the leadership team for a program that is scheduled to eventually have nearly 200 students at a time. When you sit with some of the residents, it’s clear that a culture of shared responsibility, creative problem solving and tight-knit camaraderie is being built.

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Finnigan said she and the directors have created open spaces for ongoing two-way dialogue to continually celebrate the wins and evaluate what might need to be tweaked or changed.” Allison Perko, a doctor in the surgery program who will be at LRH for five years, said the environment is very collaborative. “It's not a dog eat dog world… we're there to help each other out. We're not there to compete with each other, tear each other down,” she said. “I love that I can go to my other colleagues and different specialties and feel comfortable with them.” We sat down with a group of students in the first ever-GME class to give you a behind the scenes look into some of the newest doctors in town. A doctor in the first-ever residency program at Lakeland Regional Health enjoys one of the private lounges.

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You may have heard this before, but it’s still remarkable to consider: Lakeland Regional is home to the second busiest Emergency Room in the United States, usually treating 500 to 700 patients per day. Cripe was drawn to the hospital, in part, because of the amount of and variety of cases he expected to work on. “The pathology here varies drastically,” he said. “You can be treating somebody that's a few hours old to somebody, you know, that's close to a hundred or over.” He said he has already experienced several “aha” moments that come with working at a community hospital, and he has found equal satisfaction with what Lakeland offers his family during his down time. “I think there was a lot more to do here than I originally thought. You know, Bonnet Springs, which is a huge park, and if you really want to go do something in Tampa, Orlando, it's not that far of a drive…but I have yet to find myself doing that 'cause there's stuff to do around here.”

BRAZIL

GETS RECHARGED BY EITHER

Allison is quick to share that she was driven to go into medicine because of her mom’s journey with breast cancer. She realized that good doctors can be an integral part of people’s support systems and wanted to do that for others. She saw a culture of care at Lakeland Regional that really attracted her to spending the next half decade of her life there. “They really cared about their patients and it was more than just going and doing surgery,” she said. “It was everything else between…. taking care of people at end of life care, whether that means surgery or not.” She said circumstances certainly arise that require skills beyond the book knowledge and classroom experience of medical school, and she’s thankful her attending physicians have proven to have her back every step of the way. One thing Allison loves about Lakeland is the historic buildings throughout downtown that still showcase many original features from the 1950s and 60s.

D R AW I N G O R PA I N T I N G

“I distinctly remember the first time that I walked into a patient encounter. I introduced myself as, ‘Hi, I'm Dr. Montecino,’” Dominique said. “I think saying that echoed a little bit in the room, like, ‘Oh my gosh, it's me that I'm referring to. I'm the doctor here.’” Dominique realizes the privilege and power that come with that title, which keeps her humble and dedicated to taking that responsibility seriously. She said it’s easy to build those character traits in an environment where she finds her colleagues to be authentic and ready to do whatever it takes to train the next generation of doctors to be successful. Dominique admits she was a little nervous moving somewhere she knew very little about, but she has been pleasantly surprised by how friendly Lakelanders are, and how much there is to do around town.

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Aqeel is quick to give thanks to the warm welcome the Lakeland community has shown him and other new doctors, and he frequently uses the word vibrant to describe Lakelanders and Lakeland Regional staff. He said early on it has been fun to learn from experienced professionals, while also getting to create the culture of a brand new residency program by offering creative on-the-job solutions. He is encouraged how residents, as well as lifelong doctors and nurses, support each other and provide a safe space for each other to navigate the realities of practicing medicine that aren’t always clear when reading books and simulating scenarios in medical school. “When you're in the room and you gotta decide, okay, this patient has a new leukemia diagnosis, but he's uninsured, so where's it gonna go? All that kind of stuff, it's I don't know…the general public at large isn't really aware of the emotional toll and the emotional strength that's needed,” he said. Aqeel said he’s already understanding the job can be extremely demanding, but remembering how hard he worked to get to this place helps him find the strength to navigate the ups and downs. “You know, 10 year old me would think I'm like the coolest guy around,” he said. “Just kinda remembering, you know, why we're here and just how much effort it took to get here helps.”

THE LAKELANDER

Andi was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at age 12, and as a patient on Medicaid and with parents who wanted to try a more “natural” approach to combating the disease, she at times felt hopeless and as if no one was listening. Until one day a colorectal surgeon took her under his wing and charitably dove headfirst into her case despite the fact he didn’t accept Medicaid. “He showed me a different side of being a doctor of medicine—the compassionate side of it,” she recalls. “And I was like, I wanna be like him. I wanna be a patient advocate.” Andi admits she is outspoken, a quality that she says serves her well as a connector of different specialists and medical professionals. She loves how working in family medicine allows her to build relationships and plant seeds that can make a difference for individuals and families over the years. She said it’s been a long journey just to get to this point in her career, but she wants outsiders to understand it’s about more than just making a lucrative income. “A lot of people think that we go into medicine...for money. And to be honest, at least for me, and I think I can speak for most of us, because of how hard it has been to get here, we kind of sell our souls a little bit. So I think one of the things that I really want this generation and future generations to know is that we're really here for them to give them the best care that they can possibly receive.”

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Written by Diego De Jesus Photos by Jordan Randall Designed by Briana Chenot

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Skate World Adds Exciting Upgrades While Keeping Old School Charm

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kate World owner Chanel Bellotto is excited to show off nearly 3,000 square feet of renovations that were recently added to the family legacy. Bellotto inherited the rink from her late father Adonis Dedes in 2007, and has dedicated herself to the business and the community ever since. One afternoon Chanel walked into the rink and a man walked up to her and excitedly said, “You’re Adonis’ daughter!” He proceeded to share how Chanel’s father had taken him under his wing during tough times and made a profound impact on his life. He then introduced Chanel to his son—who is named Adonis. “I now realize what a ministry my dad had created in this community with having a safe place where kids could get dropped off and kids still get dropped off,” Bellotto said. “It's a safe, wonderful family environment, and I'm certainly proud and honored to carry on his legacy.” Skate World has been a haven for fun times since 1977, but Bellotto said it has long been due for upgrades. With the expansion there is a new party area that can hold up to 80 people at a time, and it is wrapped in an electric custom wallpaper treatment that Bellotto had created by an artist in New Zealand. There is also an updated arcade and prize counter, and the food and drink options at the cafe are more expansive than ever. Bellotto—who originally thought she was just going to help run the rink for “a few months” when her dad got sick—said it brings a smile to her face to finally be able to put modern enhancements into an old dream. “We had to find a new place for our skate room because literally all of the bathrooms took over our entire old skate room and DJ area,” Bellotto said. “So all of that had to be relocated when we, when we decided to branch out and make it bigger.” The renovations wrapped up in mid-November, and Skate World is open for public skating five days per week with Mondays and Wednesday currently reserved for private parties. Skate World is far more than just a place to do the limbo on skates and rack up prize tickets. It is renowned for its Polk County School Board approved S.T.E.M field trips, facilitates countless community fundraisers, hosts birthday parties and hosts Christian Skate nights on a monthly basis.

Skate World owner Chanel Bellotto has been making children and families smile since taking over the family business in 2007.

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Written by RJ Walters Photos provided by LDDA Designed by Briana Chenot

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Downtown Market Celebrates 20 Years of Delighting Locals

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here the NOBAY apartment complex stands in downtown Lakeland was once the initial spot for what has grown into one of Lakeland’s most vibrant and cherished offerings. Now in its 20th year, the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market “took over” the streets of downtown from the railroad track to Bay Street in 2013, and eventually expanded post-COVID to Lemon Street. That has become a blessing for all Lakelanders, especially the merchants who are selling everything from fresh produce to artisan furniture to custom apparel to delicious treats every Saturday from September through May. What once could hold a maximum of 85 vendors now hits up to 140 vendors to satisfy the wants and needs of the 5,000 plus customers who visit the market each week. “The Market is its own community,” said Julie Townsend, Executive Director at Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. “We have lots of loyal customers who patronize their favorite local vendors and support these small businesses.” Aside from being a favorite spot for locals to find homegrown, handmade items, it has been a place for small businesses to start their dreams and build their brands. The market has served as an incubator for more than 10 plus businesses that eventually opened brick-andmortar locations, including Take Heart, Scout & Tag, Krazy Kombucha and Swan Brewing. “These businesses started off as vendors at the Farmers Market where they were able to prove their concepts, test their products and prices, and cultivate loyal customers before taking the next big step to a retail location,” Townsend said Some of the market’s longest standing vendors are Aqua Organics and Eco Farms.

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W H A T D O E S I T M E A N T O G I V E W E L L? ISSUE 94 GIVING AND GIFTING THE LAKELANDER

GiveWell CEO Callie Neslund is driven to help people activate their generosity to help their neighbors.

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What does it mean to GiveWell?

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What if there was a philanthropic matchmaker in our community who understood precise needs and could help you meet them? Thankfully, there is.

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Written by RJ Walters Photos by Jordan Randall Designed by Jonathan Sierra

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The

tremendous collaborator with GiveWell, is very GiveWell much focused on annual campaigns and building Community its own programs, while GiveWell is very much Foundation playing the long-game and supporting existing does not feed programs and ventures in the community. the hungry, Currently, GiveWell has approximately $485 provide million in assets. They have partnerships with behavioral health services, build community 90 non-profits they have thoroughly vetted, centers or start after school programs. and those organizations have Yet it is one of the most established agency funds with powerful forces for good them, which allows them to be the that makes all of those recipient of funds. things and so much more GiveWell’s model is built on possible in Polk County, cultivating and growing assets and as well as Hardee and also allowing people and groups Highlands counties. avenues that give them freedom Twenty five years ago to determine how their money is Lakelander Jack Grady dispersed to make an impact. and 17 other locals Anyone or any group of started GiveWell as the individuals who have at least Community Foundation $10,000 to invest can open a of Greater Lakeland. Since donor-advised fund. GiveWell’s then, the organization has investment advisor and investment become the pre-eminent committee of local financial experts philanthropic matchmaker dictate the strategy to best grow in the region, utilizing its the money, while the fund holder connections and investment is provided opportunities to review expertise as means to grant ideas from GiveWell’s provide more than $400 trusted partners. If the fund adviser million dollars in that believes in the cause they can make time to local nonprofits a financial gift to an organization, and organizations to meet or they can wait until another community needs. opportunity comes along. “It is an institution of Individuals can also strengthen permanence where we’re the community through addressing immediate unrestricted gifts that GiveWell community needs, but also uses on an annual basis to meet the providing a sustainable most pressing community needs. mechanism for years During the 2022-23 fiscal year, to come where these GiveWell awarded 1,382 grants nonprofits will have support totaling $40.6 million. in perpetuity,” said GiveWell CEO GiveWell doesn’t distribute those Callie Neslund. “We have the super This gift, provided by Polk Vision through its GiveWell funds simply based on what their unique ability to work across sectors fund, helped fund the Local College Access Network. board or staff deem to be “important,” as kind of an objective third party to the organization makes decisions collect and share data and to start those based on data such as the United Community conversations to influence policy and then to Needs Assessment, a two-year study featuring marshal the resources to address all of ’em.” surveys of more than 2,100 Polk County Think of it this way: United Way, which is a residents.

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W H A T D O E S I T M E A N T O G I V E W E L L? ISSUE 94 GIVING AND GIFTING THE LAKELANDER

SOMETIMES ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS THREE

THE GREATEST NEEDS TODAY

That Needs Assessment, along with other research-driven data about the community, direct GiveWell’s plan of action. The broadest category of needs can be defined as “community development,” which often require complex solutions and extensive collaboration to solve. Within that realm, the need for additional behavioral health services in Central Florida is clear. In 2021, the population to mental healthcare provider ratio in Polk County was 1,190 to 1, whereas the national benchmark for “healthy communities” is around 310 to 1. “What that means is if you are in need of mental health services, you’re either waiting a really long time for an appointment or you are missing work and taking your kid out of school to go see somebody out of the area.” It’s no surprise then that Lakeland Regional Health has long been a significant beneficiary of GiveWell funds. At the top of or intertwined with almost every assessment of our community is education. As more working families continue to move into Polk County, there is a need for more quality childcare providers that enable families to work and also help children be developmentally prepared for elementary school. When it comes to things like improving substandard reading scores and increasing high school graduation rates, GiveWell is ready to fuel partners. For example, the local Salvation Army has a preschool on its campus that is helping young students excel, and they are planning to build a new facility that will be able to provide additional after school care; in the same vein, YMCA of West Central Florida is in the midst of $20 million-plus addition that will include major upgrades to its after school programming.

Neslund likes to say that organizations like GiveWell can allow people to look at their “Opera sized dreams,” referencing the TV star and exceedingly generous philanthropist. One of her “Opera dreams” is to identify a funding partner that could create an endowment scholarship for K-12 students whose parents agree to a contract that stipulates strong attendance and parental involvement through their child’s educational career. She said some school districts around the country call it a “promise scholarship,” and it provides guaranteed scholarship money to students and families who prioritize education for the next generation. “That taps into the younger audience, it taps into families who are overwhelmed and maybe don’t have the same resources,” she said.

The unprecedented crisis of the pandemic that began in 2020 called for unprecedented community response, and GiveWell and United Way of Central Florida came together in an official capacity to leverage the collective strength and credibility of both organizations. The United Community Relief Fund was able to grant more than $635,000 to nonprofits providing COVID relief in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties. Neslund said a key to helping as many people during relief efforts as possible is the ability to be “nimble and provide immediate response,” and both organizations can unequivocally attest to that ability thanks to so many long-term partnerships. The organizations found such synergy during COVID relief work that they agreed to continue joint relief efforts moving forward. When Hurricane Ian hit in 2022, they partnered to create a fund that helped people displaced by the storm take refuge, and they also worked with county emergency managers and private companies to make plans for long-term recovery. “Sometimes one plus one equals three, and that’s the case with United Way of Central Florida with our relief work,” Neslund said. “We acknowledge that we have different business models… but we’re very strong as combined organizations.”

“We acknowledge that we have different business models… but we’re very strong as combined organizations.” GiveWell and United Way of Central Florida continue to collaborate on relief efforts.

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W H A T D O E S I T M E A N T O G I V E W E L L?

How You Make a Difference through...

D O N O R -A DVI S E D F U N D S

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Open a fund with GiveWell with a gift of at least $10,000 and designate what categories the fund should benefit

UNRESTRICTED GIFTS Make an unrestricted gift via cash or check Local non-profits are invited to apply for annual grants called Empower Polk grants that can help them build capacity

Utilize the digital Fund Holder Portal tool to review grant ideas and community needs

A grant committee at GiveWell considers the greatest community needs and matches those priorities with local grant requests

Decide if you would like to provide a grant to an organization or if you just want to keep your money growing until another opportunity arrives

THE LAKELANDER

The GiveWell board approves the gift you made to be dispersed

Determine if that fund will be put in a long-term, balanced or conservative investment pool to earn interest or if it will be cash to make it easier to disperse funds quickly

Your gift starts making an impact!

GiveWell staff researches the beneficiary and gives a green light if they meet required criteria Your gift is dispersed and starts making an impact!

PERSONALIZED GIVING THAT MATCHES PASSIONS

A multi-generational group of 10 businessmen from Lakeland wanted to throw a big party each year and give back to local nonprofits—thus, The Lakeland 100 was born. Greg Masters, President of Southern Homes, and his son Brant, who works at his father’s business, had the idea of bringing 100 business owners together to raise money and help educate attendees of a lot of the important work being done in the community. Greg and Brant are among several father-son duos in the bunch, and they are wholeheartedly set on leaving a legacy that far outlasts their lives. “Our dads’ whole perspective is…they want to plant the trees that they’ll never see the shade to,” Brant said. “They’re planting the trees around Lakeland that they’re never gonna see or benefit from the shade of…but we will, and our grandkids will.”

Instead of having to work through the legalese and spend money on creating their own 501(c)3, The Lakeland 100 counted on GiveWell to create a donor-advised fund for them and to vet nonprofits who match the group’s vision for giving. In 2023, due to a generous matching gift from a donor, and others stepping up to the challenge, The Lakeland 100 raised nearly $400,000 in a single 2-hour stag event. Some of the non-profits who were benefactors include: kidsPack, Idols Aside Ministries, Viste and Dream Center of Lakeland. “They already have all the connections, they already have all the information, they have everything we need to set up the grants and everything like that,” Brant said of GiveWell. The hope is for The Lakeland 100 to host an event every spring, and people can stay posted about the 2024 event by visiting thelakeland100.com.

The GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center offers immersive displays of Florida wildlife for children of all ages to explore.

Learn More at GiveWell.org

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THE LAKELANDER

GIVING AND GIFTING

ISSUE 94

Contact me to see how. Contact me to see how.

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A DREAM THAT CONNECTS US ALL ISSUE 94 GIVING AND GIFTING

Written by RJ Walters Photos by Jordan Randall Designed by Jonathan Sierra

THE LAKELANDER

Sometimes a community needs a connector. Sometimes people need a friendly push in the right direction. Dream Center of Lakeland aspires to be both.

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

Executive Director Mike Cooper

Our history is Lakeland’s history. Publix Super Markets Inc. founder George Jenkins was known for his generosity and encouraged a “people helping people” culture. He wanted Publix associates and their families to be at their best financiallyat every phase of life. In 1957, Mr. George saw his dream come true with the establishment of Publix Employees Federal Credit Union (PEFCU). PEFCU continues to honor Mr. George’s mission by supporting Publix associates’ personal financial needs at every step of their journey. PEFCU was built by Publix associates for Publix associates. PEFCU.com | @PublixCU Federally insured by NCUA.

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

POWERI NG REL I AB L E I NNOVATI ON David thought it would be a typical day when he started work a week after Hurricane Ian, when a fault at the substation threatened to put all of downtown out of power. That's when the new substation automation kicked into gear to keep the power ﬂowing. "Many of the improvements our team makes aren't visible to customers. When we can ﬁx problems before they affect customers, that's when we know we're on the right path."

lakelandelectric.com

A DREAM THAT CONNECTS US ALL ISSUE 94 GIVING AND GIFTING THE LAKELANDER

a culture where words often build walls and differences are the catalyst for division, a gregarious and spirited 66-year old coach/teacher/pastor who grew up in poverty himself is a leader of a movement God is using to build unity and destroy strongholds in a part of Lakeland that for many years has been riddled by gang violence and racial and political tension. When Mike Cooper, Executive Director of the Dream Center of Lakeland, said “Yes” in 2010 to the opportunity to shepherd the community ministry founded by Victory Church, he knew it would take honest conversations and time to build trust to make any lasting impact in an area that was once home to six bars and dubbed “Little Vietnam.” Early on in his tenure, Cooper experienced first-hand a glimpse at the pain and bitterness locals in the neighborhood were carrying with them, in part because their lives were embedded in the highest crime neighborhood of Lakeland, which intersected W. 5th Street and Kettles Ave. “My son and I were getting out of the car one day, and there was a barbershop across the street (from the Dream Center), and when we got out of the car somebody screams out, ‘We don’t need no [expletive] white guys in the community,’” Cooper recalls. Cooper told his son to go inside while he walked across the street to see what the commotion was about. “I said, ‘Guys, my hearing is not as sharp as it used to be, but I think somebody said something. Let me just put it this way: I totally agree with you, but the reason I’m in this community is ’cause you haven’t discovered who God is in your life yet. You should be doing what I’m doing…but right now there’s a void and God just happened to call me to fill the void.’” Later that afternoon he returned to ask the barber how his visit was received. “He said, ‘Well, at first it was quiet, but then one guy said, you know, preacher is right.’” Fast forward more than a decade later. The spot where that barbershop once stood is now one of many neighborhood lots the Dream Center owns and utilizes for community outreach. And no longer is it just Cooper, his staff and a few locals “filling the void”—it is a collective of people from all backgrounds, a variety of church denominations, various businesses, college students, law enforcement officials and more.

Outreach at the Dream Center is led by diverse groups of volunteers that include churches, college groups, local businesses, city officials and more. A STEADY PRESENCE A N D EVO LVI N G M I S S I O N

"...the reason I'm in this community is 'cause you haven't discovered who God is in your life yet. You should be doing what I'm doing...but right now there's a void and God just happened to call me to fill the void.’”

- Mike Cooper, recalling a conversation from years ago

Cooper is known for his gregarious personality and ability to get people to work together for the common good.

If you ask Dream Center staff what the non-profit does, most of the time they will say, “Meet the needs of the community.” Twice a week locals can pick up groceries at food distribution events, and three days a week people are blessed through the Community Shoppe, where individuals receive household items and clothes, as long as they attend some of the Dream Center’s programming. On Saturdays, the neighborhood comes to life when the Kids Club program brings in children from nearly 20 at-risk neighborhoods for song, dance, games, Bible stories and a meal. The Dream Center is also a host to a slew of other initiatives making a difference, including: group Bible studies, pregnancy care services through Options for Women, after school programs, a support group for teen moms and a Sunday church service and pancake breakfast that takes place in the gymnasium.

EVERYONE’S DREAM CENTER

It’s normal to find large groups of volunteers beautifying the nearby blocks, passing out flowers and offering up prayers. A panoramic glance at the surroundings reveals people from a variety of churches serving together, college sports teams rallying for the cause, Lakeland Police Officers connecting with people and city employees with tools and resources that ensure an event’s success. Highland Park Church was one of the first churches to serve consistently with the Dream Center, and there is now an eclectic group of congregations making an impact— from black churches to Victory Church to Family Worship Center to All Saints Episcopal Church. The growing footprint of the Dream Center cannot be viewed without also recognizing the remarkable number of businesses who have stepped up in recent years. The Kiwanis Club was the catalyst for building Kids Club Park where the majority of outdoor programming takes place; the towering outdoor pavilion was built thanks to the generosity of Mid-State Industrial Maintenance CEO Jeffrey Clyin and a community grant from Mosaic; Publix installed a walk-in refrigeration system several years ago and is a perpetual giver; and Southern Homes is set to build a new bathroom facility at the park. Cooper said he doesn’t walk into rooms filled with influential people looking to stir up donations, in part because his confidence is in the character and faithfulness of God. He said he cannot count how many times people have called him to share how God has compelled them to donate or someone has shown up at the center with an envelope with thousands of dollars in it because they know it’s what they are supposed to do. “God right now is working on donors, he’s working on volunteers right now that I don’t even know,” Cooper said. He points to John 17 as Scripture that illustrates how Jesus desires for all of his followers to be one with God, just as he is, so they can share God’s love with the world effectively.

The gym inside the Dream Center is used almost every day of the year for events, meetings or worship.

Community partners enable the Dream Center to help more individuals and families than they could on their own.

“God right now is working on donors, he’s working on volunteers right now that I don’t even know.”

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

BE LIKE MIKE

If you’ve met Mike Cooper once, you know he’s hard to forget. One day Cooper told Lakeland Police Chief Sammy Taylor that he understands he’s “not everybody’s cup of tea.” The chief retorted, “I’ll disagree with you on that. I think you’re everybody’s cup of tea, just not a full cup.” He can speak to people going through difficulties with empathy as well offer encouragement to keep fighting because he’s had to himself. He grew up in a poverty stricken region of Maryland in the Appalachian Mountains where he used an outhouse and shared a bedroom with his sisters. He’s been a basketball coach, he’s run a school, and once he even had to build his own office when he was hired by a church in Baton Rouge, La. Cooper might cock his head momentarily as he engages you in a passionate conversation, and a minute later he will be chuckling as he squints directly at you. It’s all part of being a connector— someone who genuinely cares about people and the future of Lakeland. Thousands of conversations over the years, and a consistent presence, have given him credibility to navigate the ongoing challenges. Sometimes that means pushing for solutions with LPD— where he has served as chaplain for 12 years—and other times it means entering conversations most people would back down from. He has listened

attentively to the realities facing the black community, and he has brought them together to help address what he calls the advantage of “white access” which he says differs from the buzz phrase “white privilege.” On a monthly basis he sets up coffee and donuts with black pastors and an influential city leader, with the purpose of helping them hear each other and ultimately connecting them to resources and long-term solutions. “We connect people with needs with people with resources. We give them access and get out of the way,” Cooper said.

“We connect people with needs with people with resources. We give them access and get out of the way.”

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

A DREAM THAT CONNECTS US ALL ISSUE 94 GIVING AND GIFTING THE LAKELANDER

WORK TO BE DONE

Someone who has not been back to the neighborhoods surrounding the Dream Center for a decade or so might hardly recognize their surroundings at first, but some generational problems still persist. In 2023 there has been an uptick in violence in Lakeland, with at least a half dozen public shootings, including one just minutes from the Dream Center in January, where 11 victims were injured. Part of it can be attributed to economic stresses of inflation and still far too many high school dropouts in the area, but part of it simply proves there is still much work to be done. Cooper, who said he is hopeful he can work about five more years before retiring, said the DNA of the community is changing. He said two years ago, “about 98 percent” of the individuals they served during the week were black, but now it’s about 70 percent black and 30 percent Hispanic, which means a melding of cultures and ways of life that don’t always naturally jive. He said the Center’s primary focus will continue to be the “community homeless” population—such as people who might sleep in their truck outside their uncle’s house at night and look for work in the morning—and that the more Lakelanders who step up, the greater the return on the investment will be.

As part of Kid's Club each Saturday kids from around the city enjoy meals and fellowship together.

The Dream Center plans to host a greater variety and number of community events throughout the year, and Cooper is also hopeful more businesses will become recurring givers at $1,000-plus per year, to help invest in the shared dreams of many. “We want to be the intersection of everything. Government comes together with faith; faith comes together with business,” he said. “We wanna become that conduit, then step out of the way and let God develop relationships.” Learn More about how you can volunteer or make a financial gift at DreamCenterLakeland.org

“We want to be the intersection of everything. Government comes together with faith; faith comes together with business,” he said. “We wanna become that conduit, then step out of the way and let God develop relationships.”

Neighborhood beautification is just one way volunteers make an impact.

GIVING AND GIFTING | ISSUE 94

MAKES A DIFFERENCE GIFT WHERE YOUR GIVING AND GIFTING ISSUE 94 THE LAKELANDER

Written by Gabriela Andrews Photos by Jordan Randall Designed by Jonathan Sierra

GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE GIVING AND GIFTING ISSUE 94

Lakeland’s charming downtown storefronts are beloved for things like locally sourced products, picturesque hometown curb appeal, and most importantly, the community that has been built between businesses and customers.

WHERE YOUR

Where Your Gifts Make a Difference

THE LAKELANDER

wo such shops, both located on North Kentucky Avenue, are Top Buttons and Take Heart, faith-based and people-centric organizations who have gracefully melded the nonprofit sector with successful retail offerings. When you shop at these stores you might find the perfect gift to elate someone, and you also can experience the joy of knowing that your purchase is helping make a difference.

55 55

Plum Paige High Rise Laurel Canyon denim pants $209

Dolce Vita paily braided strap heels $120

Top Buttons Blazer and shorts by Linda Allard Ellen Tracy $30

Black body suit $6

Top Buttons DKNY blazer

GIVING AND GIFTING ISSUE 94

$25

100% silk Paige button down $40

bdg Urban Outfitters denim shorts $28

Belt with pouch $12

Plum Bishop & Young, Free Spirit jumpsuit $110.99

Brenda Grands and Kenda Kist rings $29-$42

Laggo Polk Whipstitch Ivory clutch made in USA w/Italian leather $185.99

WHERE YOUR GIFT GIVING & GIFTING ISSUE 94

Top Buttons was founder Sarah Powers’ calling—it just took her a while to recognize that. She had long been dismayed with how women were increasingly judged in the media based primarily on their physical beauty without much focus on their giftings or skills. She also recognized an increasing need in Lakeland for the empowerment of underserved young women and girls. “As a mother of daughters, I wanted to help provide a positive fashion resource that was filtered from the commonly sexually explicit content that is associated with the fashion or media industry,” she said. At first, she thought that passion might look like building an online fashion/positive body image magazine—and she did that, with the help of volunteers and a group of high school students—but over time it morphed into realizing her calling was helping young women right here in our community. Initially it was funding some “shopping sprees” with young women and teaching them about modesty and body image, and in time Powers shared with anyone who would listen to her vision to provide high-quality, stylish, gently worn clothing and ongoing, Christ-centered mentorship for women.

MAKES A DIFFERENCE

TOP BUTTONS

THE LAKELANDER

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MAKES A DIFFERENCE GIFT WHERE YOUR GIVING & GIFTING ISSUE 94

Top Buttons

Several of her friends who were mothers of middle schoolers, especially students at Lakeland Christian School, echoed her passion and helped her obtain clothing donations. When that network was established, Powers and her team opened their first storefront in Downtown Lakeland to bring in profits through a thrift store to invest back into women of the community. Combining upscale thrift, an enviable location, and near constant exposure to a historically generous community, the 501(c) (3) bloomed. With a commitment to expression through fashion and a core belief that clothes can be a tool to help transform lives, Top Buttons Wearing Confidence Program offers participants a potentially life-changing set of services. Young women receive salon services, brand new undergarments, one outfit of professional attire, makeup matched to skin tones, life skills coaching and more. “It came out of me seeking God to figure out how I can best use what I feel like my passions are and my skills are,” Powers said. “I felt like I’m called to work with young people.”

Faux leather jacket $12 Universal threads tank $6 Free People pink knit skirt $22 Frye boots $40

THE LAKELANDER

“It came out of me seeking God to figure out how I can best use what I feel like my passions are and my skills are,” Powers said. “I felt like I’m called to work with young people.” - Top Buttons founder Sarah Powers

GIVING AND GIFTING ISSUE 94

MAKES A DIFFERENCE GIFT WHERE YOUR GIVING & GIFTING ISSUE 94 THE LAKELANDER

Top Buttons serves more than 300 local women ages 11-25 each year in partnership with organizations that include PACE Center for Girls, One More Child, Heartland for Children, New Beginnings High School and dozens more. In the suite next door on North Kentucky Avenue, Plum is run by Top Buttons manager Niki Hoyle. At Plum, shoppers can purchase on-trend (and nonthrifted) women’s clothing and accessories in a boutique setting, and all proceeds help support Top Buttons Initiatives. Expanding beyond Lakeland, two storefronts in Bartow and Winter Haven continue to touch and ignite even more young women. Top Buttons is also set to open a new location in Downtown St. Petersburg in the coming months, and is working toward being able to offer the option for people across the country to start their own affiliate store. LAKELAND LOCATION (PLUM IS NEXT DOOR)

WINTER HAVEN LOCATION

236 N Kentucky Ave Lakeland, FL, 33801

226 W Central Avenue Winter Haven, FL, 33880

Store Hours Monday - Friday 10am to 6pm Saturday 9am to 5pm

Store Hours Monday - Friday 10am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 4pm

BARTOW LOCATION

TopButtons.org

135 E Main Street Bartow, FL, 33830 Store Hours Monday - Friday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10 am to 2pm

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THE LAKELANDER

Take Heart founder and president Delta Ryan, in Kenya.

GIVING & GIFTING ISSUE 94

WHERE YOUR

GIFT

MAKES A DIFFERENCE

TAKE HEART

“I kept thinking about the woman who had hung herself and kept thinking about what I could do to offer women hope, and make sure that they didn’t feel that was their only option.”

Lakelanders Delta Ryan and Michelle Johnson did not begin their careers in ministry or in fundraising, but they have always had servant’s hearts, which is evident by the fact they spent years as an physician’s assistant in the ER and public school educator, respectively. In October 2012, Delta traveled to a rural village in the African nation of Kenya and stayed in an orphanage of teenagers, getting to know them on a deeply personal level while observing the reality of no clean or running water, a highly patriarchal society with limited human rights for women, and cyclical poverty. On that same trip, a young widowed mother took her own life, leaving behind five orphaned children. It was an experience that would forever change Delta’s life. “I kept thinking about the woman who had hung herself and kept thinking about what I could do to offer women hope, and make sure that they didn’t feel that was their only option,” she said. Many trips to Kenya later, Delta’s good friend Michelle Johnson joined her. After encountering a pair of earrings with the label “fair trade” in a safari gift shop and speaking with the store’s staff about the origin and meaning of fair trade, Delta and Michelle instantly saw a way to weave charitable initiative with profit. Fair trade is defined as a global movement of artisans from developing nations who craft handmade items for a fair wage in safe working conditions to earn sustainable income.

One Heart. One Purpose. Your Health.

Book an appointment at one of our 15 health centers today.

cfhc.org | 866.234.8534

AT HOME

Annie Pfeiffer Ornament 29.95

Annie Pfeiffer Coasters (Set of 4) 21.95

Danforth Salt & Pepper Shakers 16.95

Annie Pfeiffer Gold Earrings 15.00

BRING HOME A TOUCH OF LAKELAND’S ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY Find an eclectic mix of jewelry, gifts, and home decor items in the GEICO Gift Shop at the Frank Lloyd Wright Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center.

shopfllw.flsouthern.edu

MAKES A DIFFERENCE GIFT WHERE YOUR GIVING & GIFTING ISSUE 94

Beginning at the local Downtown Farmers Curb Market and transitioning in 2018 to a brick and mortar storefront, Take Heart has featured work from artisans from more than 40 countries, while still highlighting Lakeland’s very own artisans. By partnering with local schools and with support from the George Jenkins Foundation, Take Heart makes it a priority to pour back into our community, while ultimately making a difference in Kenya. The nonprofit helps widows and orphans overcome poverty through education and entrepreneurship initiatives that are built on a foundation of the love of Jesus. They provide education sponsorships for more than 100 youth and provide programming that fights the cycles of poverty, violence, suicide and forced marriage. On the website takeheartafrica.org, it’s easy to find myriad inspiring stories of life change made possible by the nonprofit that are as beautiful as the artisan handbags, jewelry and more that you can buy to support the cause. Currently, Take Heart is working to build a high-quality primary school in the village they serve, with the goal of providing hope and opportunities for generations to come.

THE LAKELANDER

LOCATION

248 N Kentucky Ave Lakeland, FL 33801 Store Hours Monday - Friday 10am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 4pm

TakeHeartAf rica.org

Located at:

The Strand Salon 2537 S. Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803

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LAKELAND HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ISSUE 94

'Tis the Season Tote and Pillow Scout & Tag The soft canvas tote bag is 15x15" and machine washable. The pillow is 17x17", made with soft, yet durable polyester and is machine washable.

GIVING AND GIFTING

$27.95 (tote) & $39.95 (pillow) 244 N. Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801 ScoutandTag.com

Arte Italica Square Tray w/ Arte Italica Crown Linens Towel Swan and Arte Italica Dove Natale Home Essentials Arte Italica has been a leader in Italian tabletop and home décor for nearly 25 years. Crown Linen Designs sells some of the finest European linen tabletop, apparel and gifts you will find anywhere, including these holiday favorites.

THE LAKELANDER

$450 (tray) $32 (linen towel) $75 (dove)

325 N. Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801 HomeEssentialsfl.com

Super 73 750w Electric Bike Crossroads Cycle A high performance electric motorbike designed for the urban adventurer, built with an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame and a fully adjustable air spring suspension fork.

$3,295 309-2 W. Main St. Lakeland, FL 33815 CrossroadsCyclesLakelandfl.com

Garland Handbag Monkee's of Lakeland

$325 2514 Florida Ave. S. Lakeland, FL 33803 MonkeesofLakeland.com

A small, portable fireplace that can be used indoors and outdoors. Fueled with bioethanol, it is completely safe and produces clean, smoke-free, odorless flame

$64.95 244 N. Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801 ScoutandTag.com

Personalize your home and your landscape with ornate and festive flags that can match almost any theme or season.

Vinostream Wine Aerator and Dispenser Scout & Tag The fastest and easiest way to aerate and dispense wine. The set features a soft rubber stopper that creates an air-tight seal allowing it to be left on open wine bottles, and the dispenser allows for easy non spill pouring.

$30 244 N. Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801 ScoutandTag.com

Prices Vary 2633 Florida Ave S. Lakeland, FL 33803

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Evergreen Personalized Flags Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware

GIVING AND GIFTING

Made from high-end designer fabrics ranging from linen to silk to alpaca fur, most bags are one of a kind or limited run. The bag faces include vintage jewelry or exclusive embellishments.

Table Top Fire Pot by Homebuddy Scout & Tag

LAKELAND HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Blue Topaz and Diamond Ring Marshall Jewelers Pear shaped London blue topaz ring with diamonds.

$1,500

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2058B E Edgewood Dr. Lakeland, FL 33803 MarshallJewelersLakeland.com

Fiesta Star Piñata Mega Mercado Festive handmade cardboard piñata.

$27.99 2009 George Jenkins Blvd Lakeland, FL 33815

Dometic CFX3 55IM Ice Maker Powered 12V Cooler Andy Thornal Company

Holiday Blend f rom Ethiopia + Guatemala Patriot Coffee This light-medium roast offers a delicious blend of Ethiopian and Guatemalan coffees perfect for the holiday season. It has notes of fruitcake, sugar plum and chocolate truffle.

$13.49 May be available at Black & Brew locations or Publix, or can be purchased at PatriotCoffee.com

This 53L cooler is the first portable electric cooler with its own ice maker. It includes rapid freeze plate that makes ice in just hours, without compromising the temperature elsewhere.

$1,079.99 336 Magnolia Ave. Winter Haven, FL 33880 AndyThornal.com

8" Molcajete Mega Mercado Authentic Mexican mortar & pestle made by hand from lava rock.

THE LAKELANDER

$20.99

2009 George Jenkins Blvd Lakeland, FL 33815

LAKELAND HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Aveda x Iris Van Herpen Henosis Hair Pin Set Venue Salon The Henosis Hair Pin Set is part of the limited-edition Aveda x Iris van Herpen capsule collection of ornamental accessories.

$60 5035 S. Lakeland Dr. Lakeland, FL 33813 Shop.Aveda.com/Salon/VenueSalon

GIVING AND GIFTING

ISSUE 94

Bath + Body and Home Fragrance Gifts Roam and Ramble Shop Local products that attempt to remind people of the salty air of the ocean, the earthy citrus smell of the orange groves and the feeling of sun on your face.

Big Green Egg 13 in. Small EGG in Nest Package Charcoal Kamado Grill and Smoker Green Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware

$30 (Body Care Duo) $28 (50hr Candle) $22 (Hand + Body Polish) $4.50 (Guest Soap) RoamandRambleShop.com

Grill, roast, smoke, sear and bake—the EGG does all this and more. The Big Green Egg is fueled by 100% natural hardwood for superb performance and flavor. It takes just minutes to reach cooking temperature.

Karen Adams Best Selling Calendar and Easel Stationery Loft

$949.99

Each month features an original Karen Adams design that is printed and hand-finished. A beautiful gold or silver easel is enclosed to showcase the month's artwork on your desk, shelf, or counter.

2633 Florida Ave S. Lakeland, FL 33803

$70 for calendar and easel $37 for calendar ref ill

THE LAKELANDER

230 N. Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801 StationeryLoft.com

Rayvolt Clubman 750w Motor Vintage Electric Bike Crossroads Cycle The Rayvolt Clubman invites you to elevate your ride and embrace the future of cycling. Discover the perfect blend of power, efficiency, and luxury with the Clubman, and redefine the way you experience the joy of cycling.

$3,200 309-2 W. Main St. Lakeland, FL 33815 CrossroadsCyclesLakelandfl.com

Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Essentials Venue Salon Transform hair with plant-powered repair. Set features strengthening shampoo, conditioner and intensive strengthening treatment masque.

$59 5035 S. Lakeland Dr. Lakeland, FL 33813 Shop.Aveda.com/Salon/VenueSalon

Florida Orange Blossom Honey Honeybell Bee Company Harvested in Fort Meade, this is premium, 100% raw and unfiltered honey with natural pollen.

Prices Vary More Details Coming Soon!

Allison Avery Lord's Prayer Medallion Chain with Cross Monkee's of Lakeland This Lord's Prayer Chain is an elegant way to show your faith. Plated with 18K gold, the 18" chain features a 2" extender for an adjustable fit and is topped with a diamond CZ cross for a touch of sparkle. The Lord's Prayer is laser engraved on one side and the Serenity Prayer on the other.

$160 Sweater Weather Loose Leaf Tea Color Theory Tea A warm and sweet blend of rooibos, apple pieces, cinnamon, and a maple apple spice flavoring, that is a perfect treat on a crisp autumn day. Best enjoyed hot.

$9 ColorTheoryTea.com

Laggo Mini Ella in Black Crinkle Italian Leather Plum Quilted leather, inside zipper and dust bag. Made in USA

$325 236 N Kentucky Ave Lakeland, FL 33801

2514 Florida Ave. S. Lakeland, FL 33803 MonkeesofLakeland.com

Assisted Living Facility Licenses: #AL11995, #AL12732, #AL5217, #AL7902

Make the Move!

Seniors in Lakeland have several options for accommodations, care, and locations with our 6 local communities.

Call Today to Speak to one of our Family Advisors!

Show Your Smile Some Love! We are proud to offer comprehensive dental care for Lakeland Area families including: • General Dentistry for the Entire Family • Cosmetic Dentistry • Botox • Dental Implant Services

• Full & Partial Dentures • TMJ • Emergency Dental Care

We’re here to provide you with the level of care you need, no matter what stage of life you are in.

Call 863.614.1794 Or visit DrWalding.com 444 W. Pipkin Road | Lakeland, FL 33813 1/22

Aveda x Iris Van Herpen Cosmetic Pouch Venue Salon The Syntopia Cosmetic Pouch is part of the limited-edition Aveda x Iris van Herpen capsule collection of ornamental accessories.

$60 5035 S. Lakeland Dr. Lakeland, FL 33813 Shop.Aveda.com/Salon/VenueSalon

Aveda Shampure Calming Aroma Candle and Gold Snuffer Venue Salon Calm your senses and your home with our vegan, 100% naturally derived soy wax candle, featuring Aveda's signature shampure™ aroma with 25 pure flower and plant essences including certified organic lavender, pettitgrain, ylang ylang.

$54 5035 S. Lakeland Dr. Lakeland, FL 33813 Shop.Aveda.com/Salon/VenueSalon

Uno de 50 Necklace Me Gustas Andy Thornal Company Long necklace composed of multiples brown leather laces with littles silver plated feathers that gives movement to the jewel. Handmade in Spain.

$205 336 Magnolia Ave. Winter Haven, FL 33880 AndyThornal.com

5.4ct Diamond Stud Earrings Munchel's Fine Jewelry Gorgeous lab grown diamonds that make a perfect gift and stunning addition to any wardrobe.

$15,750 3227 Florida Ave. S. Lakeland, FL 33803 Munchels.com

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Max Jewelers Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with antireflective coating, 40mm, 316L stainless steel case. Automatic movement with up to 80 hours power reserve.

$725 1553 Town Center Dr. Lakeland, FL 33803 Maxjewelers.com

LAKELAND HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

FIND IT AT THE

Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Kentucky Ave.

LakelandCurbMarket.org

Ethos Coffee Roasters Sampler Ethos Coffee Roasters Samplers A world-class coffee adventure awaits with a Holiday coffee sampler from this Lakeland roaster.

Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market or EthosRoasters.com

GIVING AND GIFTING

ISSUE 94

Prices Vary

Bat Themed Mugs Dugout Mugs Wooden baseball bat barrel mugs, and other custom Major League officially licensed gifts.

$19.99 and up Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market or DugoutMugs.com

Pietersite Pendant Simpatico Silver

THE LAKELANDER

Pietersite pendant with velvety blue texture topped with a faceted sapphire.

Prices Vary Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market

P-40 Warhawk T-shirt and Aviation Stickers Valor Gear This aircraft was outdated, out gunned and slower than its contemporaries by the time WW2 started, but it became one of the most well know fighter aircraft of all time.

From $29.50 (shirt) Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market or ShopValorGear.com

Handmade Kenyan Nativity Take Heart This handmade, fair trade nativity is created out of dried banana leaf from Kenya.

$70 248 N. Kentucky Ave. Lakeland, FL 33801 TakeHeartAf rica.com

HANDCRAFTED LOCAL POTTERY S&D Backyard Custom Designs S&D Backyard Custom Designs offers acrylic resin-poured painted vases, bowls, wine glasses, and cheese trays.

Prices Vary Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market

Bourbon Pecan Pie Candle Always Rich Creations Bourbon pecan pies are hand poured into a real reusable 5” cast iron skillet. All of the pecans are hand painted. Each pie contains approximately 10oz of wax.

$40 Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market or AlwaysRichCreations.com

City of Lakeland 11x17 Poster The Red Swan Shop llustration of the city of Lakeland Florida by Tate Krupa.

$14.95 Available at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market or TheRedSwanShop.com

Closer to Home, Closer to Care! Schedule an appointment today! COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL/NATURAL GAS | LP/APPLIANCES-PIPING-REPAIRS

Edgewood Office 2140 E. Edgewood Dr. Lakeland, FL 33803 and Area Loca kel ti La

s on

Lakeland Hills Office

Al l

863-669-1212

1920 Lakeland Hills Blvd. Lakeland, FL 33805

863-683-4661 Winter Haven Office 550 Pope Avenue, Suite 100 Winter Haven, FL 33881

863-293-2144 pediatricassociates.com

863.224.2354 INFO@ALTERNATIVEGASCONSTRUCTION.COM PO BOX 9461 WINTER HAVEN, FL 33883-9461

Since 1972 We’ve treated them like family.

Marshall Jewelers New Location! 2058 E Edgewood Dr | Lakeland, Fl 33803

863.682.4725

• Comprehensive Medical Services • Professionsal Grooming & Stying • Comfortable & Spacious Lodging • AAHA Accredited 3710 Cleveland Heights Boulevard 863.646.2995 pethospital.com

marshalljewelerslakeland.com

quality Only the finest meats, cheeses and vegetables are used to make our delicious classic italian dishes. Come enjoy.

3615 S. Florida Ave. Suite 1310 Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 617-9832 • ilfornolakeland.com

THE LAKELANDER

G I V I N G ATNADS TGEI F| TI ISNSG U EI S9S2 U E 9 4

HISTORY

ISSUE 94

82 82

1975

Members of the Lakeland General Hospital Auxiliary decorate a Christmas tree in the hospital lobby.

Courtesy of Lakeland Public Library

75 years of

EXPERIENCED MINDS handling

COMPLEX MATTERS Since 1948, Peterson & Myers has provided experienced legal advice to help our clients’ innovative ideas become a reality. We believe each client deserves attorneys who create learned, practical, individualized solutions in a constantly changing and complex environment. Please call us or visit our website today for more information about our time-tested legal experience.

PETERSONMYERS.COM • 863.683.6511 • LAKELAND | WINTER HAVEN | LAKE WALES

Need

Access

Healthcare?

If you need immediate care with or without an appointment, Watson Clinic offers options that work with your needs and on your schedule.

Same Day or Next Day Appointments Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm Call 863-680-CARE (2273) An appointment will be made with the first available Family or Internal Medicine physician or provider.

WatsonClinic.com/Care

Walk-in Care Immediate access to healthcare without the need for an appointment. Open Extended Hours 7 Days a Week Urgent Care Main Urgent Care South XpressCare Highlands

WatsonClinic.com/Walkin