The Lakelander - Issue 38

ISSU E 38

A City’s Santa IT’S A PARTY SHOP LIKE A LAKELANDER A COZY HOME FOR FOUR ROCKIN’ AROUND THE TV

A promise made is a promise kept.

So, what does this promise mean for you? It means a dedicated and compassionate team will be there for you through life’s most important moments.

Our exceptional primary and specialty care physicians and their teams are inspired and ready to become your family’s partners for a lifetime of wellness.

Your health is our highest priority, and caring for you is our greatest privilege.

Call today to make an appointment.

863.284.5000 + myLRH.org

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Eleven Polk County locations to serve you!

Lakeland-Lake Gibson 6625 US 98 North (863) 858-3866 Lake Wales 126 Hwy. 60 W. (863) 676-6515

Lakeland Combee 1225 N. Combee Rd. (863) 665-3111

Lakeland North 1409 N. Florida Ave. (863) 682-8107

Frostproof Ft. Meade 500 N. Scenic Hwy. 1401 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 635-2645 (863) 285-9757

Lakeland Christina 6100 S. Florida Ave. (863) 646-2921

Auburndale 521 Hughes Rd. (863) 967-6602

Eagle Lake 1515 Hwy. 17 S. (863) 294-7749

Haines City 35495 Hwy. 27 (863) 422-3144 1350 N. Broadway (US 98) Bartow (863) 533-1611

LAKELAND • 2018

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C O N T E N T S ISSUE 38

ON THE COVER The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santa Claus shares just how he achieved his magical status and bright red suit. Photo by Tina Sargeant.

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THE LAKELANDER

Ready for the ultimate college visit?

Don’t just tour campus. Experience it!

Chapel service | Class previews | Apply for free | Meet faculty | Get info ONE DAY

PREVIEW DAYS

January 26

Day for the arts

March 9

+ Adventure Day on March 10

April 13

Last event of the semester

February 26–27 April 5–6

SPECIAL EVENTS

+ SEU Conference

March 9

Transfer Day

+ Fire festival

April 6

Athletic Day

Register at SEU.edu/visit

SEU.edu | 800.500.8760 | 863.667.5018 Follow us @seuniversity

CONTENTS

52 FEATURES

42 • GIFT GUIDE

52 • TASTE

66 • SHELTER

84 • PEOPLE

Shop Like a Lakelander

It’s a Party

A Cozy Home for Four

A City’s Santa

Because Mom (and any hostess) should be able to enjoy Christmas dinner too

See the Rippys’ cozy bugalow, made to create lasting family memories

An exclusive interview with Lakeland’s very own jolly Saint Nick

Our contributors’ top local gift picks to add to your wish list

HOLIDAY PARTY READY SERVICES

Surgical Procedures of the Body, Breast & Face Non-Surgical facial rejuvenation with Botox, Juvederm, Voluma, Volbello, Belotero and Laser Treatments

Dr. Jacob Gerzenshtein is a leading Lakeland, FL plastic surgeon who is dedicated to the pursuit of surgical perfection and complete patient satisfaction. Jacob Gerzenshtein, MD, is a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon who is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He takes great pride in his reputation as one of the most highly skilled plastic surgeons in Central Florida. Dr. G treats each patient seeking cosmetic surgery with the utmost attentiveness and dedication, an approach that consistently delivers outstanding aesthetic results.

Call to Schedule your appointment (863) 647-2200 or visit our website fineryou.com Finer You PA, Dr. Gerzenshtein 4429 Florida National Dr, Lakeland, FL 33813

CONTENTS

96 • PHILANTHROPY

A City’s Giving Spirit The non-profits leading the way to meet those in need this season

108 • STYLE

66

Chromatic Revolt A little rebelling with a pop of color

124 • SPECIAL

Rockin’ Around the Television From timeless classics to the underdogs, a holiday film guide

108

124

DEPARTMENTS

18

THE LAKELANDER

20 • MASTHEAD

24 • CONTRIBUTORS

30 • METRO

22 • EDITOR’S NOTE

26 • LETTERS

138 • HISTORY

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With the help of local advisors and comprehensive insurance programs, you can explore the upside of your risk and turn problems into possibilities.

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BRANDON LEGAL GROUP

Curt Patterson Jason Jacobs • Brandon Patterson PUBLISHER

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS

Brandon Patterson

Kristin Crosby

Daniel Barceló

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

EDITOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Advertising ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ADVERTISING SALES

A Full Service Law Firm

Curt Patterson | 863.409.2449 Brandon Patterson | 863.409.2447 Jason Jacobs | 863.606.8785 Dale C. Kimsey | 863.640.1129

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& Family Law Mediation Center

CONTRIBUTORS

Family Law & Divorce,

COPY EDITOR

Wills & Trusts,

Taylor Irby, Sarah Sebastian, Adam Spafford, Benjamin Vickers Laura Burke

Creative

Criminal Law,

DESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bankruptcy,

VP, FINANCE

Business Law,

EDITORIAL INTERN SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN

& Real Estate Law

Anushka van Huyssteen Dan Austin, Tina Sargeant Deb Patterson Emily Johnson Allie Bernatek

Circulation CIRCULATION DIRECTOR GENERAL COUNSEL

Jason Jacobs Ted W. Weeks IV

Melissa A. Gravitt Lakeland Of�ice Available by Appointment

Issue 38 - December 2017 The Lakelander is published bimonthly by Patterson Jacobs Publishing, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802.

Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of The Lakelander is prohibited. The Lakelander is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions.

Patterson Jacobs

Contact Patterson Jacobs Publishing, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802 863.701.2707 • thelakelander.com

Customer Service: 863.701.2707 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Brandon Of�ice 20

TH E L A K E L A N DE R

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I SS U E 36

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E D I T O R ’ S

N O T E

A CHRISTMASTIME PARADOX

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.

Chuck and Robin Thorpe

Serving All of Lakeland for 36 Years

I’m quite sure that, by the age of nine, awaiting the arrival of the Toys R Us annual Christmas catalog (or coffee table-sized book, rather) had become the bane of my existence.

Whether that year it be My Little Pony, an Easy Bake Oven, or Beauty and the Beast’s Belle and Beast Barbie doll pair, by September my parents were sure to find the thick catalog fully marked up with circles and numbers in order of wants, sitting at their bedroom door — my annual childhood Christmas wish list.

(Ah, the female expectations. They start so young, no?)

Years later, I would graduate to J.Crew holiday catalogs, another wondrous winter wonderland figment of my imagination.

Ironically, for some of us, that same feeling of anticipation for what would arrive Christmas morn tends to escalate from childhood into adulthood.

Most of us are ushered into the Christmas

The magnificent simplicity of Christmas Day is so easily overlooked.

Kristin Crosby EDITOR

www.thorpeac.com 863-858-2577

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experience from birth, in awe of the season’s lit-up adornments, the long-running list of Christmas films (which we’ve shamelessly included this issue), and the endless potential of the latest talking Elmo, J.Crew sweaters, or Apple products that could soon be ours December 25. The magnificent simplicity of Christmas Day originally presented to us is so easily and naturally overlooked by the toys and latest ISO trinkets, regardless of our age.

Before we lose ourselves in the chaos of meeting expectations or wallowing in the disappointments of our own, it’s good to recall, and seek to encounter, the pure purpose of the day throughout the season.

Thankfully, at some age we grow up to discover it’s not really what’s under the tree on Christmas morning that matters most. (That, or we’re finally making enough money to buy what we would ideally gift wrap and place under the tree for ourselves.)

for the

Wishing your family the happiest holiday season. From all the homes in Grasslands and Oakbridge. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Drummond Company MISSION LAKES | HERITAGE LAKES | LAUREL GLEN | BELLERIVE | TURNBERRY | BRIDGEFIELD SUMMERFIELD | WINGED FOOT | ENCLAVE | FAIRWAY LAKES | STONEWATER | PRESTWICK SHOAL CREEK | OAK PARK | MUIRFIELD VILLAGE | THE SANCTUARY

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C O N T R I B U T O R S THE WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS THAT MAKE THE LAKELANDER

TAYLOR IRBY

Style photographed by Dan Austin, p. 108

DAN AUSTIN Dan Austin is a Florida native photographer. He specializes in a unique style that combines the spirit of his subject with a detailed attention to lighting.

Through this style, Dan achieves a unique and well-thought-out aesthetic that can be seen in his images. For bookings: danaustinphotography.com

What first drew you to photography?

Ever since I can remember, I’ve had the desire to capture moments, people, and places that I saw, so that I could look back later and reminisce on the details of that moment. I never had a very sharp memory, so taking pictures always was my way of remembering such details. Even as a child, I ran around with a Polaroid camera and snapped photos of every little thing I could.

How are you continually inspired as a photographer?

I draw inspiration from everywhere possible. I try to surround myself with a variety of art, fashion, music, nature, and people which all play a role in my inspiration.

Sitting down and talking with someone — for example, a single mom, a painter, a musician, an entrepreneur, etc. — I can clearly picture their story or vision in my head, and then from there I can formulate a way to translate that story into a photograph. It’s always been a challenge that I love.

What have been some of your favorite photo shoots for The Lakelander?

I think the best Lakelander shoots have been the ones where I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with other people on the team. One that first comes to mind is the “Style Kinetics” shoot we did with the models posing in mid-air. I was very proud of those images and the

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production behind it. The images turned out just like the story board. It’s always an incredible feeling when the results are just as you envisioned and planned for!

Another favorite shoot of mine, which was also a huge collaborative effort, was the recent style shoot, “On the Road Again,” which turned out just as it was envisioned. The stellar clothing, the models, hair and makeup, creative direction, locations, props all just worked that day. That concept was actually not the original one for that issue’s Style shoot. We had thrown around numerous ideas, locations, themes, none of which worked out. We then landed on the concept of a thrill-seeking couple hitting the road in a Mustang and capturing their journey along the way. I think the photos speak for themselves. I’ve gotten great feedback about these!

What was the inspiration and highlight of this issue’s “Chromatic Revolt” color-block themed Style shoot?

The clothing really inspired the creative process with this particular shoot. When I spoke with the stylist and she mentioned going the vintage clothing route, I wanted the focus to be on the clothing itself: the colors, the texture, the design. So, in brainstorming, we came up with the monochromatic idea and ran with it. I think it really stands out, and will make people pause and look at the clothing.

TH E L A K E L A N DE R

Taylory Irby is a Charleston, South Carolina, native who relocated to Lakeland five years ago with her husband, Joseph, and their two children, Inslee and Anderson.

Taylor graduated from Charleston Southern University and is the founder and operator of East Of These handmade accessories sold here in Lakeland.

SARAH SEBASTIAN Sarah is a born-andraised Lakelander who spent a couple of years living in Norway.

She works at Qgiv as their product content manager. In her spare time, you can find her reading, writing, and occasionally singing at local open mics.

See the masthead on p. 20 for all contributing writers and photographers

L E T T E R S COMMENTS FROM LAKELANDERS

Thank you, The Lakelander, for featuring the city candidates in your current issue. It’s a good read.

Jorge Fonseca // Facebook

EXCITED TO SHARE ABOUT OUR PASSION FOR DESIGN THINKING AND INNOVATION IN THE NEWLY DESIGNED LAKELANDER MAGAZINE. GRAB A COPY LOCALLY OR CHECK IT OUT ON ISSUU...! @Jason Demeo // Facebook

Sneak peek of what you’ll see in the upcoming issue of The Lakelander magazine!!

Had a great time at the photo shoot! @missfloridafl // Instagram

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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I SS U E 36

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M E T R O NEW AND NOTABLE IN LAKELAND

About Old Friends At the beginning of each new year, we naturally look ahead for what’s to come, but it’s also an ideal time to recall the good things that have passed.

IT’S

New Year’s Eve. In seconds the clock strikes 12 a.m. and the band begins to play.

“What does this song mean?” asks Harry, baffled, in the last scene of When Harry Met Sally. “My whole life, I don’t know what this song means.

‘Should old acquaintance be forgot?’ Does that mean we should forget old acquaintances? Or does that mean if we happen to forget them, we should remember them, which is not possible because we already forgot them?”

“Well,” Sally answers, searching for a reply, “maybe it just means we should remember that we forgot them or something. Anyway, it’s about old friends.”

This traditional tune is played every New Year’s Eve at the stroke of midnight, bidding farewell to the year gone by. Yet, frankly, many of us haven’t a clue what the song means. What is Auld Lang Syne?

How does one get one? And what exactly does one do with it?

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TH E L A K E L A N DE R

“For Auld Lang Syne” loosely translated means “For the sake of old times.”

“Auld Lang Syne” was a Scot’s poem written by Robert Burns in 1788, set to music. Sent to the Scots Musical Museum, Burns claims it is simply “an old song ... I took down from an old man.” The lyrics made their way through a Scottish heritage, the core of its message preserved and passed down from one wise man to the next.

The line “For Auld Lang Syne” loosely translated means “For the sake of old times.” Its first line, “Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never thought upon,” poses a rhetorical question. It’s clear the message of the song isn’t so much to ask a question as it is to impress a challenging thought: though a new year arrives, should old friends be forgotten?

Each year our schedules get a little busier, our social followers a little heftier, and with each New Year’s Eve’s arrival, the anticipation of new opportunities, new relationships, and new clients tend to cloud our thoughts.

Granted, life presents itself to us in seasons: We attend school in different seasons. We accept new jobs, new promotions, new gigs in seasons. And we get new acquaintances, and inevitably, leave old friends in seasons.

After a certain point in life, you come to the conclusion that some friends are here to stay and some are here for just a while. If it be for a season to bring comfort, restoration, or simply open up our eyes to the world in new ways, each friend can broaden our view of life and enrich our souls, if we allow them.

When these years arrive where “acquaintances” or friends, do inevitably become old, it’s always good not to just rush past them, as if you’re some stallion passing a herd of lazy cattle. But to stop in our tracks for a solid moment if for nothing more than a thought, an acknowledgement, and recollection for what those friends meant to us at that time and what we could have potentially, if we had availed ourselves to it, fulfilled as a friend as well.

It’s all too easy nowadays to rush past the friends that occupied our lives the previous year, without a second thought or concern. If ever there was a time friends would appear to grow on trees, it would be in the awakening of this social era. While it may not seem to muster up much immediate outcome for us in the very moment, it’s good for us to look back on past friendships simply for the good in them, if for nothing more than the mere virtue of our souls.

Some old friendships may be gone for good, and we can appreciate them for what they were. But there are old friendships that may seem to be dissipated, that may have been solidified as blessed and rare, and somehow, even if you never anticipated it, they return. And those friendships … those are as good as gold.

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IT’S ALL TOO EASY NOWADAYS TO RUSH PAST THE FRIENDS THAT OCCUPIED OUR LIVES THE PREVIOUS YEAR, WITHOUT A SECOND THOUGHT...

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METRO

City to Move Munn Park Monument

SURF LKLD Matt Thompson, developer and visionary, is bringing a premier surf and beach club to Lakeland. Spurring new economic development for the greater downtown area, Thompson and his team hope to create an attraction to all lovers of the surf and waves.

JUST MOVE

A construct in the city that has stood to cause much tension in an already racially divided climate, will soon be relocated.

Gold’s Gym has transitioned to Just Move Athletic Club, now a gym operating independently. While proud of their roots, such a unique culture had formed here in Lakeland that the owners wanted to reflect that with local branding and are thrilled to unveil this shift.

Same gym, same owners, but with a new look and next-level experience.

O

ver the last several months, if any topic ignites an AFTER HOURS OF ongoing heated debate in Lakeland, it is whether or not PUBLIC COMMENT, to remove the Confederate statue that currently stands in Munn Park. Leading up to a vote in December, many protesters THE POLK COUNTY have argued what this unnamed Confederate soldier represents for COMMISSIONERS the community, which has remained present in the city for over the VOTED IN FAVOR past 100 years. While an earlier draft resolution would have kept the monument in place, as of December 4 that plan was rejected.

OF THE STATUE’S After hours of public comments, the Polk County Commissioners RELOCATION, WITH voted in favor of the statue’s relocation, with a final vote 4-3.

A FINAL VOTE 4 - 3.

Commissioner Don Selvage introduced a resolution to “direct the city manager to begin the process of moving the Munn Park statue followed by an analysis of possible relocation sites.” The city commission asked that the monument be moved from Munn Park to either Veterans Memorial Park or the Frances Langford Promenade, but also allowed for the city’s staff to recommend sites owned by city.

The decided relocation of the statue will be finalized following a cost analysis report by the city manager and when the city commission will have four new commissioners in place in 2018.

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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METRO

D’Lucas: From the founder of Nineteen61, Chef Marcos brings a new Latin-inspired restaurant to Dixieland Chef Marcos Fernandez, of Lakeland’s Nineteen61, is opening a new restaurant called D’Lucas at 1037 Dixieland Mall Lane. Inspired by Latin dishes such as vaca frita, lomo saltado, and guava pastelitos by Honeycomb. With an abbreviated menu of similar flavors from Nineteen61, D’Lucas will be a casual eatery offering pick-up window service and patio seating — a A CASUAL EATERY place where guests can OFFERING PICK-UP experience a reflection of its sister brand but SERVICE AND PATIO through a more informal SEATING environment.

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SEU FOOTBALL NAIA

LAKELAND LINDER

Entering this season’s NAIA championship, Southeastern University’s Fire Football team lost in the first round to Kentucky’s Lindsey Wilson in a heated game with a final score of 49 to 63. On to the next game season, Fire Fans!

Lakeland Linder, the once regionalonly airport, has now become international. The recent opening of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection office located in the airport has allowed the possibility of future international flights, freights, and other endeavors.

TH E L A K E L A N DE R

HURTA SOLUTIONS BOOT CAMP AT CATAPULT Perfect for any small startup, or entrepreneur with the dream to launch a business, this two-day intensive course will focus on the steps needed to create a business infrastructure that will thrive. Register before January 16 at catapultlakeland.com.

Commitment to faith and family is fundamental to our culture.

DALE DREYER Regional President | Central Florida KEN ELY Senior Vice President/Lakeland Area Executive

CenterStateBank.com OUR CORE VALUES: Local Market Driven | Long Term Horizon | World Class Service | Relationship Banking | Faith & Family 500 S. Florida Ave. | Ste. 100 | Lakeland | 863-683-2300

METRO

New Name and Logo for Club BRIDGING THE GAP GALA 2018 Join the Strings in Need Gala for a three-course meal catered by Nineteen61, Red Door, and Swan City Catering, and help bridge the gap for music students facing financial hardship. Hosted at Haus 820, the Gala will feature musician and speaker Rich Redmond on March 10, 2018.

Buy tickets at stringsinneed.com.

Brand unveiling party at Haus 820

FLORIDA TROPICS SC Stop by for a game with Lakelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own indoor soccer team as they kick into the 2017-2018 season.

Buy tickets at fltropics.com.

On November 30th, the membership committee of what was formerly known as the Lakeland Yacht & Country Club, revealed the new name and brand of the Club. The construction of the new building at the historic Lake Hollingsworth location is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2018 and will feature new amenities and a fresh vision.

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TH E L A K E L A N DE R

FOR MORE INFO

or to inquire about membership visit thelakelandcc.com.

br& W E K N O W W H AT YO U R B R A N D I S M I S S I N G

Whether your logo needs a refresh, or your latest idea is begging for an innovative campaign, let us add our unique perspective.

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METRO

Before it’s too late, plan now to spend your New Year’s Eve at one of the city’s best parties (including the one at your house).

Party With

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Haus 820, one of the largest event venues in Central Florida, will host a New Year’s Eve party this year. Future So Bright: A Celebration Worth Celebrating is a one-of-a-kind New Year’s Eve event that includes a downtown Lakeland experience like none you’ve seen before.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the night kicks off with included trolley service and a special New Year’s Eve transit route, creating a giant, connected Pub Crawl through Dixieland into downtown. Downtown partners offering exclusive discounts to Haus 820 guests include Cob & Pen, Posto 9, Lakeland Loft, The Terrace, and Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille. Trolley service will shuttle people from bar to bar and finally arrive at Haus 820.

From 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., patrons can enjoy an optional three-course dinner and/or wine pairing from Nineteen61 held in ART/ifact.

At 8:30 p.m., doors open at Haus 820 with music by DJ Jenks and live music by On the Avenue! This six-piece group is an award-winning Alternative Pop/Rap Rock band. Haus 820 will provide a full cash bar to ring in the New Year.

Tickets start at $45.

Title sponsor The Mortgage Firm Lakeland will be providing the included trolley shuttle services, allowing you to visit all the downtown Lakeland hot spots safely until 2 a.m.!

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

NYE At Home With The Kids 1 BRING THE PARTY HOME Create a fun party atmosphere with your kiddos and celebrate the beginning of a new year by making paper mâché hats or a birthday cake.

COOL BANKING NOW OPEN IN LAKELANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HISTORIC ICEHOUSE

Brad Rhoden Senior Vice President Retail Market Manager

Holly Arthur Retail Service Manager

Al Rogers Executive Vice President Executive Lending Officer

Butch Rahman Senior Vice President Polk County Area Executive

427 S. Florida Ave. usameribank.com/lakeland 863-581-8888 MEMBER FDIC 0170-201710-0001

NYE At Home With The Kids 2 RING IN THE NEW YEAR AROUND THE WORLD Watch people around the world celebrate. The New Year arrives at different times for different countries. On the morning of December 31, begin counting down, hour-byhour, watching a different country on television celebrate the New Year in their respective time zone.

STYLE TIPS TO TAKE YOU THROUGH THE CRACK OF DAWN Top Picks from

For Her New Year’s Eve is a night for metallics and all things that sparkle. A big color this season, gold is ideal to treat as a neutral and pair with jewel tones. The silhouettes are formfitted, and the jumpsuit is king this year. Consider this your chance for glitz and glam, but let the clothing speak, and keep accessories minimal.

GET THE LOOK: GOLD SHIMMER PENCIL SKIRT FROM J.O.A. PAIRED WITH OUR GREEN TANK FROM PROJECT SOCIAL TEE

For Him ‘Tis the season to put on some pattern other than plaid, fellas.

NYE is the perfect time for a li’l floral action or a touch of shine, in small doses and worn with neutrals. Perfectly done with a specialty coat or shoe, whichever avenue you choose to make a statement, pair it with classic staples like a greatfitting black trouser or button-down.

3 MAKE NEW RESOLUTIONS AS A FAMILY

GET THE LOOK: IVORY SATIN VARSITY JACKET AND CROPPED BLACK TROUSER

BY INSIGHT 51, PAIRED WITH THE CLASSIC BLACK OXFORD FROM BARNEY COOLS.

Help your kids set goals for the New Year, like learning to brush their teeth without being told.

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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Need someone in your corner? all-injuries.com Main Office: 832 S. Florida Ave. / 863-688-7766 Handling Cases Statewide / Toll free: 877-688-7766 I SS U E 37

Workers’ Comp Personal Injury Car Accidents Job Protection Social Security EEOC/ADA 41

GIFT GUIDE

Written by The Lakelander Team

HOW TO

LAKELANDER For some tasteful and top-of-the-line gift picks, we reached out to our editors and photographers to see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on their wish lists this year. Full of local picks, the variety and quality of gift-worthy items that are available in our city continues to rival the last-minute gifts youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re about to buy on Amazon Prime. If not just to place under the Christmas tree, these picks could also easily be a gift to yourself.

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No.1 Bandit Coffee Co. / TARA CAMPBELL $18 - $19 Online Tampa / St. Pete. - Merch from Bandit Coffee Co. in St. Pete. They have a lot of wonderful lapel pins, some that help give back to Puerto Rico, and they roast their own coffee.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s phenomenal!

Bandit Coffee Co. 2662 Central Avenue Saint Petersburg, FL 33712

No.3 Hudson Made / ABDIEL GONZALEZ $60 Model #4 Matte Metal Comb from Hudson Made

hudsonmadeny.com

No.2 Ethos Roasters / ADAM SPAFFORD $8 to $42.50 I recently bought a bag of Rio Coco coffee from Ethos Roasters at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Market. It was great!

ethosroasters.com 132 Lake Beulah Drive Lakeland, FL 33815 863.940.0060

No.4 Alice in Wonderland Novel / TINA SARGEANT $16.31 The stunning Alice in Wonderland commemorative edition illustrated by Salvador Dali.

amazon.com

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No.5 Botanic Wars Throw / TINA SARGEANT $49.99

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My other pick is this surprisingly pretty “Botanic Wars” throw, lol!

society6.com

No.7 Wine Stoppers+ Air Pump / BENJAMIN VICKERS $24.95

No.6 Field Notes Book / JOHN KAZAKLIS $4 - $10 Field Notes Book from Concord Coffee

concordcoffee.com

There are countless goofy wine gadgets for storing opened wine bottles, but this is what the professionals use. This simple and inexpensive system includes rubber stoppers that create an effective seal and a hand pump to remove the air inside the bottle, preventing oxidization.

williams-sonoma.com

The variety and quality of local gifts continue to rival the last-minute gifts you’re about to buy on Amazon.

8 No.8 DogHouse Forge / BENJAMIN VICKERS $125 - $495 A knife is a chef ’s faithful companion in the kitchen and can last for generations when well maintained. I recommend the impeccably crafted cutlery from DogHouse Forge.

DogHouse Forge 3535 Reynolds Road, Units 5-6 Lakeland, FL 33803 doghouseforge.com An appointment can be made by contacting emily@doghouseforge.com.

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47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States

SUFFER FROM GUM DISEASE *

Regular checkups are the best way promote a healthy smile.

1 - American Dental Association - mouthhealthy.org * - Not her, that healthy smile sees the dentist often.

smile

by Dr. John Paul

2024 Edgewood Dr. South Lakeland, FL 33803 863.665.6201 smilebydrpaul.com

No.11 Tandem Skydiving / SARAH SEBASTIAN $199 If you’re shopping for a daredevil, head a little outside of Lakeland to Skydive City in Zephyrhills for a tandem skydiving session.

This was purchased for me last year — it may be the best Christmas gift I’ve ever received.

They frequently run specials on Groupon and Yelp, so be sure to check for deals.

No.9 Pedesta/ / TINA SARGEANT $12.99

Skydive City / 4241 Skydive Lane Zephyrhills, FL 33542 800.888.JUMP (5867) skydivecity.com

An incredible novel, Pedestal,

by Ashley Sargeant Hogan, is available locally at Scout & Tag.

S c o u t & Ta g 244 N. Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801 8​6 3 . 2 2 5 . 2 4 2 6​ scoutingvintage.com

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No.13 Lakeland Pillow / TAYLOR IRBY $36 Lakeland pillows from Scout & Tag

S c o u t & Ta g 244 N. Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801 8​6 3 . 2 2 5 . 2 4 2 6​ scoutingvintage.com

No.10 Katara Confectionery / ABIGAIL JARVIS $12 - $36 Cookies from Katara Confectionery. They’re absolutely perfect for hostess gifts at Christmas parties or get-togethers. They’re also really great for including in a gift basket; add coffee or tea, a cute mug, a candle, a bar of chocolate, and whatever else will fit.

A regular dozen, any flavor, starts at $24.

Handpainted or designed macarons start at $36 a dozen. Half-dozens also available for $12 and $18.

A guide to finding your unique path to spiritual growth

facebook.com/kataraconfectionery/

amazon.com

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No.12 The Sacred Enneagram / JOHN KAZAKLIS $10.87

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LAKELAND’S

Upscale Jazz Art . Entertainment L AKEL AND LOFT

108 S Tennessee Ave Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 210-5327 L AKEL ANDLOFT.COM LIVE JAZZ • ART • ENTERTAINM ENT

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VALET PARKIN G P ROV ID ED BY L AKEL AND VA L ET EV ERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY FROM 8 :0 0 P M TO 1 :0 0 AM

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No.14 Hand-Knit Dolls / TAYLOR IRBY $48 and up cuddle+kind hand-knit dolls. For every cuddle+kind doll sold, the company provides 10 meals to children in need.

cuddleandkind.com

No.16 Astatula Candles / ABIGAIL JARVIS $8.75 and up Angela makes gorgeous scented candles that last forever and aren’t overly perfume-y or artificial-smelling. They’re very luxe candles without the very luxe price tag. Buy them at various makers markets in the Tampa Bay area or online.

astatulacandleco.com

No.15 Leather Ring / ABDIEL GONZALEZ $25 Leather ring from Boondock Studios

Boondock Studios 811 N. Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801 863.816.5896 boondockstudios.com

No.17 Coffee From Concord / JOHN KAZAKLIS $16 and up Freshly roasted, single-origin coffee from the city’s craft coffee shop.

Concord Coffee 1037 Florida Avenue S., #135 Lakeland, FL 33803 concordcoffee.com

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Celebrating

a New Year and a Confident

New You!

A passionate and highly-skilled plastic surgeon with 17 years of experience,

Dr. Faeza Kazmier wants to help you look and feel your best from head to toe. She offers a range of natural looking enhancement options including laser treatments, BOTOX® and fillers, and surgeries such as facelifts, tummy tucks, breast lifts and augmentations.

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No.18 Hand-Drawn Gift / TARA CAMPBELL $5 - $30 A hand-drawn gift from Bump Galletta. He does commissions, and a lot of his prints are incredible.

bumpgalletta.com

No.20 Magnolia Popcorn Company / SARAH SEBASTIAN $4- $6

No.19 Bonsai Tree / ADAM SPAFFORD $65 to $15,000 Ligustrum Bonsai Tree, a unique find recently purchased

miamitropicalbonsai.com

I love the gourmet popcorn flavors at Magnolia Popcorn Company. If you have someone on your gift list who loves to snack, check it out.

The creamy dill is my favorite.

The shop is adorable, and there are always free samples so you can figure out what you like.

Magnolia Popcorn Company 248 N. Kentucky Avenue Lakeland, FL 33 8 0 1 863.450.4138 magnoliapopcorncompany.com

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TASTE

It’s not your mom’s christmas dinner; it’s a party

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w In the past, our heightened expectations of hosting a Christmas meal meant Martha Stewart-worthy spreads and winter wonderland décor. However, today a party should mean a party for the host as well.

hen it comes time to prepare Christmas dinner, many hosts feel a frantic need to transform into domestic gods and goddesses overnight. But that no longer need be the case.

In this issue’s Taste, we show you how everyone, from the modern professional bachelor to Mom, can celebrate the holidays and host a delicious Christmas meal with style and grace without breaking a sweat and without sacrificing the happiness of being with loved ones. So, go gather your closest friends, trade your high heels for fluffy slippers, video stream the crackling fireplace on Netflix, and follow this guide to hosting a truly memorable and heartwarming holiday feast.

D E L E G A T E

Written by Benjamin Vickers Photography by Dan Austin Set Styling by Lisa Malott

The responsibility of shopping and cooking a multiple-course holiday extravaganza needn’t rest solely on your shoulders. You want to spend time celebrating the season — there’s no time to waste

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on Florida’s one cold day of the year. You want to bask in the warm company of your companions, not over a steamy cooktop all day. Plan your party as a potluck and delegate preparations to your guests. Keep their instructions specific and clear; why not pass out the recipes included in this Taste feature for each guest’s contribution? For example, everyone can provide one component of a cheese plate that will be assembled into a modern and elegant pre-dinner snack. One guest can bring the red cabbage salad, novelty Christmas crackers, and a music playlist. Another could provide the brandied mushroom bisque, some festive table settings, and their copy of Home Alone 2.

Delegating the meal and preparations will greatly increase your time and flexibility, and won’t blow through your entire 2018 grocery budget.

P L A N

A H E A D

Who should you invite? If you aren’t able to make the trip back home to be with your kin,

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think of who you consider to be practically family.

Invite an intimate group of those friends and colleagues. If any guest is bringing a plus-one, include that into your meal plan so you don’t end up with an unexpected seventh guest and realize the only place for you to sit is on a stack of Mariah Carey Christmas albums.

Encourage your guests to prepare their food contributions ahead of time so there is no stress about the timing of the meal, and setting the table will merely require warming the soup up, carving the Christmas lamb, and trading presents.

T H E M E

Y O U R

S O I R É E

Selecting a theme is one solution that solves many problems: what to make, what to wear, how to decorate, what music to bring, etc. It is such a simple step that many hosts overlook finding a theme, but you’ll find that so much of the party falls into place once you find the aesthetic you’re looking for. The theme does not have to be obvious or overdone such as “ugly Christmas sweater party” or “awkward office Christmas party.” It can be unconventional such as “’80s Christmas” where you cook the meatloaf dinner from A Christmas Story and listen to Wham!’s “Last Christmas” or Madonna’s rendition of “Santa Baby.” Or perhaps “historic Lakeland” themed, full of royal swan decorations, pastel pinks and greens, a lamb roast ordered from Publix, and a Florida orangescented hot chocolate

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RECIPE

ROASTED CHRISTMAS LAMB This recipe was tested using a leg of lamb with the bone in and a layer of fat. The friendly attendants at the Publix butcher counter will be happy to take orders for the specific cut and size of roast you’d like. Estimate one pound per person.

5 pound lamb roast with the fat on 2-ounce can of anchovies packed in olive oil (don't worry, you won’t taste it at all!)

2 Tbsp Dijon mustard 2 Tbsp fresh rosemary 2 Tbsp garlic 4 oz soft butter 1 lemon, cut in half white wine, as needed

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Preheat the oven to 425°F. Use a sharp knife to make 10 or 12 deep incisions through the fat that covers the meat.

Puree or crush the anchovies, mustard, rosemary, garlic, and butter into a chunky paste. Use your hands to massage it deeply into the incisions and over the surface of the roast.

Season with pepper, but you probably will not need to use salt, due to the mustard and anchovies.

Position the lamb on the rack of a roasting pan, fat side up, and squeeze the lemon over the roast. Pour a few good glugs of wine into the bottom of the pan to create steam and moisture during cooking. Maybe pour some in a glass for yourself while you're at it?

Roast for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the heat to 350°F for about another hour, until the internal temperature reaches 120°F. Switch your oven to convection or broiler and finish the roast another 15-20 minutes to make the outside crispy. The roast is ready to take out of the oven at 130°F. Rest the meat at room temperature for at least 20 minutes with aluminum tented around it. This resting period allows the juices to set and residual heat to continue to cook the roast to perfect doneness without losing any moisture.

During this resting time, use any liquids at the bottom of the pan to make a gravy. Visit The Lakelander’s November Taste feature online where we go into detail on roasting and include a fast and deliciously savory gravy recipe.

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WHO SHOULD YOU INVITE? IF YOU ARENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T ABLE TO MAKE THE TRIP BACK HOME TO BE WITH YOUR KIN, THINK OF WHO YOU CONSIDER TO BE PRACTICALLY FAMILY.

RECIPE

DIXIELAND CHRISTMAS PUNCH 2 cups pomegranate juice 1 cup cranberry juice 1 cup vodka 1 cup Grand Marnier 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/2 cup lemon juice 1 cup club soda

Stir everything together and serve over ice with a lemon garnish. The most difficult part of this punch is finding the appropriate festive bowl from which to serve it.

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RECIPE

MUSHROOM BISQUE 5 oz chopped onion 5 oz chopped parsnip 5 oz chopped celery 2.5 pounds white mushrooms 5 oz butter 5 oz flour

1/2 oz tarragon, minced 1/3 quart heavy cream, kept hot 2 quarts chicken or veggie stock salt and pepper to taste sour cream for garnish

In a wide pot with a lid, cook the onions, celery, and parsnip with a small amount of butter or oil. Keep the pot on low heat, covered so that the vegetables sweat and become tender and translucent.

Add the mushrooms and increase the heat very slightly to continue sweating. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, melt the butter and stir in the flour to make a roux. This will be used to thicken the soup into a bisque.

Once the mushrooms are tender, add the roux and stock to the vegetables and raise the heat so that it comes to a boil. Now reduce the heat again so that it cooks over low heat for about 40 minutes with the lid on. Stir the stock every once in a while to prevent the bottom from scorching.

Carefully puree everything in a blender, in batches if necessary, and add the hot cream and tarragon. Once everything is combined and you have a silky smooth bisque, season with salt and pepper to taste. This soup can be made ahead and reheated to serve. Garnish with a little dab of sour cream and freshly cracked pepper.

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30

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Accompanied by our classic smashed potatoes and green beans.

Frenchman Street Crepes

Tender Shrimp and Chicken mixed with sautéed spinach, Fontina cheese, Ham and Bacon and rolled into delicate, savory crepes. Finished with a light and creamy Shrimp sauce.

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Andouille Crusted Grouper

Blackened Grouper fillet crusted with a blend of panko breadcrumbs, creamy parmesan cheese and finely diced Cajun sausage. Set in a velvety red bell pepper sauce and served with Smashed Potatoes.

LAKELANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PREMIER COFFEE HOUSE & CASUAL EATERY

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863.682.1210

TH E L A K E L A N DE R

RECIPE

RUMMY FRUIT CAKE WITH CHOCOLATE GLAZE 9.2 oz all-purpose flour 1 Tbsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 3.4 oz soft butter 9.5 oz sugar 2 eggs 1 Tbsp vanilla 10 oz sour cream 5 oz dried fruits and nuts 1.5 oz dark rum or brandy for glaze 8 oz heavy cream 8 oz dark chocolate chips

In a mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the soft butter and sugar on medium speed until fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing for about 30 seconds, then lift out the paddle and use a spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. In a separate bowl, stir together all of the dry ingredients and add to the egg mixture. Stir on low speed until a thick batter begins to form, then add the sour cream and dried fruits and nuts and continue on low speed until the cake batter

is smooth and everything is combined.

Generously grease the interior of a bundt pan with pan spray or butter, and pour in the cake batter. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out with only a few moist crumbs stuck to it, but no raw batter.

Once the cake is out of the oven, use a toothpick to poke several holes in the warm cake and pour the rum over it so that it soaks in. Once all the liquid seems

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to be absorbed, overturn the cake onto a tray lined with parchment paper and let cool completely before glazing.

To make the glaze, bring the heavy cream to a quick boil, then pour over the dark chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute or so to let the heat penetrate the chocolate, then stir until itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a smooth glaze. Pour over the cooled cake and let it set before transporting or cutting.

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THE RESPONSIBILITY OF SHOPPING AND COOKING A MULTIPLECOURSE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA NEEDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T REST SOLELY ON YOUR SHOULDERS.

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legacy

Since 1988 Clark, Campbell, Lancaster & Munson, P.A. has been committed to protecting business and family assets through the work of dedicated, caring attorneys. Experience the difference that Lakelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most trusted legal team can make.

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500 South Florida Avenue, Suite 800, Lakeland, FL 33801 cclmlaw.com

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Event Facebook Page: Pints for Paws Lakeland Beer Fest & Follow us on Face Book: Bernie Little Distributors Budweiser

NEW LOCATION! NEW DATE! NEW LOOK!

January 19th, 2018 7pm - 10pm Lake Mirror Promenade pintsforpawslakelandbeerfest.com Purchase Tickets at: pintsforpaws2017.eventbrite.com Ticket sale proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Polk County

Over 100 different beers to sample

live entertainment & interactive beer stations Food trucks & more!!! Leashed pets welcome

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RECIPE

FLORIDA ORANGE HOT CHOCOLATE (for grown-ups) 1 quart half-and-half The peel of one orange 1 cinnamon stick 3 oz brown sugar 6.5 oz dark chocolate 3 oz Grand Marnier

Bring the half and half, orange peel, cinnamon stick and brown sugar to a gentle simmer, then strain over the dark chocolate.

Let it sit for a minute to let the heat settle around the chocolate, then stir until smooth. Add the booze at the end and either serve warm, or make ahead and store in the fridge until youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to re-warm it. No one will judge if you bring along a bag of pumpkin spice marshmallows to garnish your nostalgic cocktails with. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have Grand Marnier, brandy, Baileys, Kahlua, or other liqueur will work great. Seek your inner Buddy the Elf to make this decision.

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ADDITIONAL RECIPES can be found online at thelakelander.com

Lakelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest Sports Bar experience!

Dear readers, have a safe and merry holiday season. Thank you so much for your readership in 2017. We hope you will continue to share with us the best of what Lakeland has to offer for another brilliant year.

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SHELTER

In Rooted in the native architectural style of Bengal, India, the bungalow became a quintessential model in the 19th century. A fresh approach, which became revolutionary during the British Empire, and later coined a California staple, the bungalow flourishes still in Lakeland’s Historic District as a coveted and cozy one-story space to call home. In this Shelter feature, we visit the Rippys’ lovely home.

In past issues, we’ve explored the recent revival of Lakeland’s nostalgic bungalows.

These low-rise cottage homes have quickly become a beloved mainstay in the city for their historic and cozy appeal. With each homeowner comes a new, fresh take on the classic style. In this issue, we interview Jordan and Kristin Rippy, homeowners since 2015 in the Lake Morton Historic District, and learn how the pair adorned the space for their family of four.

The Lakelander: When searching for a home for your family, how did you become so interested in the trend of a bungalow?

Jordan: We had our eye on the Lake Morton Historic District for a while before we purchased our home. We’ve always loved antiques and shopping at thrift stores, local shops, and estate sales, so our style just fits in a home that has history and character.

Kristin: When we first moved to Lakeland, we lived in a new-construction home. Some friends of ours moved into the Historic District, and the first time we visited them, we fell in love with the area and with the style of the homes. There’s just so much character and attention to detail.

TL: What compelled you to tour this home specifically?

Jordan: I remember driving by it and turning around just to look at it again. We loved it before we even saw the inside. Once we got to actually

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tour the house, we knew it was exactly what we were looking for.

Kristin: We drove by it often. When we finally walked through it, we were smitten and didn’t even do a second walk-through. It was dreamy, and the lady who owned it said the home needed children in it again, which was just confirmation for us.

TL: What do you know of your bungalow’s history?

Jordan: We know that it was built in 1922.

The previous owners lived here for 14 years and they did a ton of great work. They exposed the original 13-foot ceilings, which had been dropped. They also restored the original hardwood floors that were hidden under shag carpet when they moved in.

Kristin: They also renovated the kitchen, making it time-period appropriate, functional, and maximizing the storage space.

TL: Where and what have you invested in your bungalow since moving in?

Jordan: We’ve done some things to make the house a little more energy efficient. Since we didn’t have a ton of renovating to do, we invested a lot in furniture and décor when we first moved in. I think we saw Karen at Dixieland Relics every day for a year.

Kristin: Seriously! Karen became a part of our family and to this day loves our family like her own. I love shopping trips where I can

A Cozy Space for Four

Written by Emily Johnson Photography by Tina Sargeant

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Much of the Rippys’ homedécor investment was spent on timeless furniture, including many unique finds from Dixieland Relics.

explore and find something one of a kind.

Dixieland Relics is the perfect place to do that.

TL: Which touches of creativity made it truly come together and feel like your space?

Kristin: We have a large, old, school chalkboard that we hung above a credenza in our dining room, and it changes seasonally, daily, or whenever I feel inspiration to write or draw. I like the originality it brings to our home. I also love the vibe a great vintage lamp puts off, and we have several that are visible from our main living space.

Jordan: Not long after we moved in, we built a headboard out of old barn wood that was pulled from my grandfather’s barn in North Carolina.

The way our house is laid out, our bedroom is very visible, so we wanted the headboard to be a real statement piece. The fact that it’s tied to some family history makes it really special, too.

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Accessories are switched out seasonally for an interesting yet family-functional living room, and to keep the room clean but still interesting.

TL: After moving in, how did you begin to make the house your home?

Kristin: We tried to find a staple piece for each room and then build off of it design wise. I also really wanted to get our daughtersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; room put together as quickly as possible to make it home for them, so that was a top priority.

TL: How has your bungalow-inspired design worked for a young family?

Jordan: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been great. Our two daughters practically live on the front porch.

Kristin: Bungalows already have such a coziness, so when you add kids to the equation, it becomes a home instantly.

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The Rippys painted every wall, every piece of trim, and the fireplace.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bungalows already have such a coziness to them, that when you add kids to the equation, it becomes a home instantly.â&#x20AC;?

- Kristin Rippy

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For product information: STIHLusa.com To reserve a product near you: STIHLdealers.com

DER BRO W S. RO C 2 Lakeland Locations Southgate Center | 2633 S. Florida Ave. | 863-683-6702 Sandpiper Plaza | 6549 N. Socrum Loop Rd. | 863-859-9909

The couple painted the trim, walls, and fireplace, also adding recessed lights and patching plaster to renew the space without having to entirely renovate it.

TL: Have you enjoyed the Historic District surrounding you with kids?

Jordan: We love it. A lot of our friends who have kids the same age as ours live in the neighborhood, so that’s fun. We’re within walking distance of Lake Morton and Lake Hollingsworth, so we’ve fed a lot of ducks in the last two years.

Kristin: We love having our own little piece of history and being surrounded by the beauty of historic homes.

TL: How has your space changed since the beginning months spent there?

Jordan: It’s just become more and more our own. The longer you live somewhere, the more you figure out the space and how it works for your family.

Kristin: It’s always changing to a certain degree, but our staples stay the same. I’m more of an “accessory” person, and I like changing up the small items in a room so I don’t get bored.

TL: How have you renovated the space?

Kristin: We painted a ton, and it’s amazing how much painting transforms a space. I’m not diminishing the work that was done by the previous owners, because it was nice to not have to do the real dirty work. We also changed out quite a few lighting fixtures. Lighting affects so much, and the fixtures themselves can make such a statement.

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let us help bring your vision to life

863.606.8689 WISHVINTAGE.COM

photo by Jordan Weiland Photography

View the entire home video tour at Facebook.com/nprealtor

CELL

2000 E. Edgewood Dr. Suite 103 Lakeland, FL 33803

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For the girls’ room, simple touches like a chalkboard add a youthful aesthetic, keeping it playful, vibrant, and kid-friendly.

Jordan: I wouldn’t say we’ve “renovated,” but we’ve definitely updated a lot. We painted every wall, every piece of trim, and the fireplace. We added recessed lights, outlets, and patched a lot of plaster. The dining room had a really thick texture on the upper portion of the walls that we removed. That turned out to be a big job. We were fortunate that the previous owners did the real heavy lifting in terms of restoring the house.

in this one small hallway. It’s a high-traffic area, and we’ve filled one of the walls with treasures from overseas’ trips.

Jordan: I really love our living room. On cold nights, we open the doors to the side porch and the windows above the built-ins and light a fire. It’s also where we spend the most time as a family playing cards around the coffee table or watching the girls play on the front porch.

TL: What is your favorite nook in the house?

Kristin: There’s a small, square hallway in our house that we’ve nicknamed “the squallway.” It’s one of my favorites because there are six doors encased with classic Craftsman-style trim all

TL: What history do you think your family will leave inside the walls of this home?

Jordan: Well, we let our girls draw and write their names all over the walls before we repainted. So there’s that. When you

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“When you have little kids, it can feel like you’re always making history. Lots of firsts in this house for us.”

- Jordan Rippy

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have little kids, it can feel like you’re always making history. Lots of firsts in this house for us. It’s the first house we’ve owned. It will always have a really special place in our family history.

Kristin: Our daughters are at such fun ages. They’re putting on shows and singing nonstop. This house is continuously filled with laughter, joy, and drama.

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With a more visible bedroom within the layout of the home, the Rippys focused on statement pieces. For their bed, the couple built a headboard made out of wood from Jordan’s grandfather’s barn in North Carolina.

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Dinner Is Served!

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Spoiler Alert!

Attention, parents: the following content may spoil the season for children who believe in Santa Claus.

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A Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santa

When we set out for an exclusive interview with the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santa, we were concerned it may dampen the belief of children but found it hard to deny the magic in this jolly Saint Nick ourselves.

Written by Adam Spafford / Photography by Tina Sargeant

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A jolly gentleman who identified himself as Tom Hicks strolled down Trader’s Alley and into The Lakelander offices recently. Politely, he began to ask us a bunch of probing questions like, “Who’s been nice?” and “Who’s been naughty?” and “Where do you keep the cookies?” No one could really figure out his angle. We didn’t have time — we were anxious to get back to work on this Holiday issue. But, before he left, we were able to ask him a few questions of our own. He said he was the pastor of First Alliance Church on Edgewood Drive and just wanted to pick up a copy of our latest issue.

His story was plausible, but it still seemed like there was something special about him …

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The Lakelander: How did you come up with this ruse as a pastor named Tom Hicks? What do you tell people about him?

Santa Claus: It started about 14 years ago, when a church needed a Santa Claus for an event. I like to say that God built me to be a Santa Claus by giving me the body for it! So I got the suit for that event and I’ve been Santa every year since. Over the last two years I’ve been a professional Santa and my wife, Cindy, has been Mrs. Claus. We’re graduates of the International University of Santa Claus (IUSC) with bachelor’s degrees in SantaClausology.

That’s what really launched this professional Santa work for us.

TL: You have to tell us a little more about this IUSC. SC: The school is taught by Santa Tim Connaghan who is the Santa of the Hollywood Christmas parade and the

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National Santa for the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots. Tom travels around the country and takes the school with him. It comes to Tampa every year. Cindy — Mrs. Claus — and I attended and had an absolutely wonderful time. I connected with other Santas there and even joined the Palm Tree Santas, the local chapter of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS – ibrbsantas. org). To be a card-carrying member in good standing, you must have a real beard; it separates us from the guys who wear fake beards! You really have to commit to it. I used to cut my beard after Christmas, but now it has a year-and-a-half of growth. There’s an interesting fact about beard growth: based on your genetics, it will stop growing at a certain point. This is as long as mine will ever be, and that’s OK because it takes a lot of work. My hair had already gone pretty gray, but I’ve helped it along a little.

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“I LIKE TO SAY THAT GOD BUILT ME TO BE A SANTA CLAUS BY GIVING ME THE BODY FOR IT!” – Santa

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For parents, we have a business card with me on one side and Mrs. Claus on the back.

But for kids, I have Santa’s driver’s license that doesn’t have any alter ego information on it. The driver’s license number is 03-15-270, which is St. Nicholas’ birthday.

TL: What’s your favorite part of your sleigh-riding gig?

SC: Bringing joy to the kids’ faces. It’s when you see the sparkle in their eyes, seeing them be happy. Especially when you might not think they have much to be happy about.

We’ve visited some tough schools in Lakeland.

Once, I was asked to visit a school where all the troubled kids were sent. I had a bit of fear and trepidation about it; I didn’t know what to

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“BRINGING JOY TO THE KIDS’ FACES. IT’S WHEN YOU SEE THE SPARKLE IN THEIR EYES, SEEING THEM BE HAPPY.”

When we left that school, expect when the principal we felt like we were the said they had never had blessed ones! a visit from Santa. Mrs. Claus and I didn’t know TL: Where can we see what we were getting and take pictures with ourselves into. But the – Santa’s favorite thing Santa this season? children had written SC: You can see me in letters to Santa and so, one by one, they would sit on Santa’s lap and the Lakeland Christmas parade. I’ll also be at the we’d read the letter. We talked about being Lakeland Police Department’s Cops for Kids on naughty and nice, how they were doing. When December 14th. Every Friday and Saturday after I left, I gave the kids hugs, and many of them Thanksgiving until I take my worldwide trip, hugged liked they had never been hugged I’ll be at Lowry Park Zoo. Several schools have before and didn’t want to let go. The teachers invited me to visit, and I’ll be doing some events had the kids make little ornaments, and two of at First Alliance Church. I’ve even booked a those kids gave their ornaments to us. And now couple of home visits including a Christmas those ornaments hang on our tree every year. Eve visit before my departure.

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Be sure to catch Santa at his upcoming appearances, visit his Facebook page at facebook. com/Watch4Santa/ or email him at watch4santa@ gmail.com. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

“PEACE ON EARTH AND GOOD WILL TOWARD MEN — IT WAS THE PROCLAMATION AT JESUS’ BIRTH.” – Santa’s wish this year

TL: You are busy! By the way, that Castle Grayskull you gave me when I was six is going for about $300 on eBay right now. Can I have another one?

SC: Sorry, the elves stopped production on that toy long ago!

TL: What are some of the funniest requests you’ve received from kids?

SC: There’s one kid who always comes in with a joke of some sort. One year, all he wanted was a jar of pickles. The next year, he sat on my lap and asked me for a new behind because his had a crack.

Of course, there are many requests that break your heart. There was a girl last year that asked

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for money. I’m always a little curious when kids ask for money, so I wanted to know why that was her request. She wanted to buy her mother a present and didn’t have any money to do so.

Mostly, kids ask for tablets or cell phones. But I really like it when they ask for a simple, classic toy like a jump rope. As you can imagine, requests fall all over the spectrum!

TL: What do you wish for at this time of year?

SC: Peace on earth and good will toward men — it was the proclamation at Jesus’ birth.

You see a little bit more of it at this time of year.

But I hope it would be year-round. I even listen to Christmas music all year long.

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By the way, I have a Naughty or Nice app on my phone that I let kids use. They press “Scan” and it reveals if they’ve been naughty or nice.

They always seem to like that. I also have the North Pole’s weather on my phone’s screen so I know what to expect. It’s five degrees there right now. There’s also a countdown to Christmas.

TL: What’s your advice for people who want to get off the naughty list and on the nice one?

SC: Get busy quick! [laughs]. There are a lot of people pushing the limits right now, and time is running out. Just be good to one another. Just like I tell the kids: be good to your brothers and sisters.

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Written by Sarah Sebastian Photography provided by: Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, Parker Street Ministries, and VISTE

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A CITY’S GIVING SPIRIT Many of us grow up with a child-like excitement of the many gifts and surprises the Christmas season could hold for us. As we enter adulthood, we begin to realize the purpose and joy that can be found in giving to others. If the city has caught onto anything through the years, especially within this season, it’s that it is better to give than to receive.

D uring the holidays, everyone seems a

little happier, smiles are a little brighter, and generosity abounds. Schools host Thanksgiving food drives, kids scribble holiday greetings on scraps of paper in red and green crayon, and families navigate bustling crowds so they can cross items off wish-lists. We often toss a few coins into a collection bucket on the way out the door or donate a few dollars to a meal program in the grocery store check-out line, but how aware are we of what local charities are doing for our community during the holidays?

Here are three local nonprofits that are tirelessly putting your donations to good use during this season of giving.

FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES For the past 113 years, Florida Baptist Children’s Homes (FBCH) has been making a difference for children and families in need across the state of Florida and around the world.

Last year alone, FBCH and their associated organizations, The Porch light and Orphan’s Heart, impacted a total of 171,273 children through their Christ-centered services. Last year, because of those who came beside them in support, they were able to provide 3 million meals to children and individuals in need. This year, they anticipate providing between 5-6 million meals.

In Florida, FBCH welcomes hope into the lives of children and individuals at 24 ministry sites in 20 cities. Internationally, hope is offered for children and individuals at more than 30 ministry sites in 14 countries through Orphan’s Heart. In 2016, they served 950 children in foster care.

Dr. Jerry Haag, the president of Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, The Porch Light, and Orphan’s Heart, says, “The holidays provide a prime opportunity to meet the needs of our communities and share hope. We want to be

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With 24 organizations in 20 cities throughout Florida alone, FBCH also serves internationally through Orphan’s Heart, with over 30 ministry sites in 14 countries.

FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES

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Last year, FBCHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s associated organizations provided over 3 million meals to children and families in need throughout Florida and nationwide. This year, the organization plans on providing 5-6 million meals.

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FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES

While the holiday season certainly draws in eager volunteers, families and individuals can give to FBCH year-round. Orphan’s Heart offers monthly sponsorships that provide children and families access to food, clothes, educational opportunities, and a variety of beneficial resources.

available with open arms for children and families in need, whether it’s in Florida or Uganda, providing meals and unique experiences, because the Christmas season calls for joy and love.”

Florida Baptist Children’s Homes provide Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, as well as Christmas gifts, to children and families in need in Polk County and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to donate food items or gifts, all donations are accepted at the Harold Clark Simmons Compassion Center located at 1015 Sikes Boulevard in Lakeland. Holiday meal baskets consist of a turkey, a box of stuffing, boxes of cornbread mix, boxed mashed potatoes, canned gravy or two gravy mix packages, boxes of macaroni and cheese,

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canned cranberry sauce, canned vegetable items, canned sweet potatoes or yams, and a pumpkin or sweet potato pie. If you’re donating gifts, all new toys for school-aged children, as well as clothes for infants and toddlers are welcomed.

As a way to keep the holiday giving spirit going year-round, Florida Baptist Children’s Homes encourages individuals and families to consider child sponsorship as a unique way to provide a Christmas gift. Through their international missions program, Orphan’s Heart, they offer a monthly sponsorship that provides children and families access to life-changing resources like food, clothes, school supplies, medicine, and educational opportunities.

Each year during the Christmas season,

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sponsors have the opportunity to go above and beyond their normal monthly sponsorship with an invitation to give an additional $20. Ministry partners use the additional funds to provide Christmas gifts and host Christmas parties for the children.

Each year, FBCH also welcomes the community through their doors for a Christmas Open House on campuses across the state of Florida. This offers a chance for community members to see what FBCH has to offer. In Lakeland, the Open House will be held at their campus. You’re invited to enjoy pictures with Santa, Christmas cookie decorating, live music, cottage tours, crafts for kids, hay rides, and the tradition of sharing fresh-squeezed orange juice provided by the residential children.

FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOMES

FBCH provides Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, as well as Christmas gifts to families in need, within Polk County and surrounding areas.

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NURTURING THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL REGISTER TODAY FOR YMCA SUCCESS AFTERSCHOOL 2017-2018 Opportunities through hands-on, active exploration include:

YMCA of West Central Florida Locations:

Homework Mentoring Character Development Arts & Crafts Board Games Dramatic Play Science Exploration Math Enrichment

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Literacy Music & Movement Sports & Physical Fitness Enrichment Classes Afternoon Snack Holiday Camps AND MORE!

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TopButtons.org Donate clothes or SHOP and support our FULL-TIME charitable efforts providing job-prep education and clothing to teens in need locally.

Drop of clothes during public shopping hours. Top buttons is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit building self-esteem through fashion.

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PARKER STREET MINISTRIES

FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES

PARKER STREET MINISTRIES

// FBCH and associated organizations, The Porch light and Orphan’s Heart, impacted a total of 171,273 children at their last year’s services.

// Last year, 400 volunteers from over 50 different organizations served during the holidays.

// Last year, the organization provided 3 million meals to children and individuals in need. // This year, they anticipate serving 5-6 million meals. // FBCH has 24 ministry sites in 20 cities throughout Florida. // In 2016, they served 950 children in foster care.

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FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES

// Distributes 400 personal-care boxes each holiday for the elderly // Nearly 1,000 volunteers serve over 4,000 clients.

PARKER STREET MINISTRIES

// Delivered Thanksgiving meals to over 1,500 people

Parker Street Ministries (PSM) is a non-profit 501c3 organization committed to Gospel-centered community development beginning in Lakeland’s Parker Street neighborhood. PSM’s vision is the culmination of a 20-plus-year commitment to the spiritual and physical well-being of the adults and children living in the Parker Street community. It represents the recommendations of the Board of Trustees and core staff, four of whom have lived in the neighborhood for a combined total of 40 years.

For Thanksgiving, PSM puts on a Fall Festival. The actual Thanksgiving holiday is focused on relationships in the neighborhood. It’s all about staff and neighborhood families eating together and playing outside.

For Christmas, PSM hosts a Neighborhood Christmas Store the second and third weekend of every December.

They set up their Family Life Center gym as a fully functioning store with brand-new toys marked down

// Presented 2,500 gifts for 800 throughout the city

If you’d like to donate food items or gifts, all donations are accepted at the Harold Clark Simmons Compassion Center located at 1015 Sikes Boulevard in Lakeland.

VISTE

PARKER STREET MINISTRIES

// Volunteers contributed 1,000 hours.

to a quarter of their retail cost, where parents can enjoy picking out and providing gifts for their children. There is also a store where kids can shop for their family members.

The hope is that relationships will be built and families strengthened. Last year, over 400 volunteers from over 50 different organizations gave nearly 1,000 hours and 2,500 gifts so that 800 neighbors could experience both the love of Christ and the love of the Lakeland community.

If you’re looking for ways to participate, Parker Street Ministries would be grateful for donations of money for ministry staff to purchase toys, store volunteers (with the store opening on December 9, 15, and 16), and donations of Christmas décor to make the store look festive and fabulous. You can drop off toys or mail checks to: Parker Street Ministries, 719 Massachusetts Avenue, Lakeland, FL, 33801. You can also call 863.682.4544 or email volunteer@psmlakeland.org to get information about volunteering. To view a list of gift ideas for the Christmas Store, visit parkerstreetministries.org/ministries/ christmasstore.

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You can drop off toys or mail checks to: Parker Street Ministries, 719 Massachusetts Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801.

You can also call 863.682.4544 or email volunteer@psmlakeland.org to get information about volunteering. To view a list of gift ideas for the Christmas Store, visit parkerstreet ministries.org/ministries/ christmasstore.

VISTE For the first time, VISTE will include donations of baked goods, cookies, and holiday treats delivered with holiday hot meals. Delivery of meals including holiday treats will start on December 18 and last through Christmas. For more information, go to viste.org or call 863.284.0828.

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VISTE

VISTE Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE) was founded in Lakeland in 1983 by a dozen volunteers who saw a need to serve people in the community of Lakeland who were no longer able to drive their cars.

These elderly clients were unable to get to and from doctor appointments or even to the grocery store, so VISTE’s first program was transportation-based and served about 30 clients. From there, they gathered more and more volunteers, built up more programs, and today have close to 1,000 volunteers serving 4,000 clients. VISTE exists to enable the frail elderly to remain safely and independently in their own homes.

After collecting food donations and prepping meals, VISTE has volunteers deliver Thanksgiving dinner to over 1,500 elderly clients in the community who may otherwise spend the holiday alone, or would not prepare a meal for themselves. At one point, VISTE almost had to turn away volunteers for their Thanksgiving delivery program. They wound up giving one meal

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to each of the approximately 1,600 volunteer drivers who showed up on Thanksgiving for deliveries.

VISTE distributes 400 personal-care boxes filled with toiletries, cleaning supplies, and other household necessities twice a year — once in June and once in December. These boxes may not seem like much, but they often mean that a client can afford the cost of a life-saving prescription instead of worrying about how to make ends meet. For December boxes, VISTE requests that people contribute items such as lap quilts or blankets, and cards, in addition to personal care and household items.

Their largest Christmas program is an annual trip to the Imperial Symphony Orchestra. After volunteers are matched with clients, an evening of getting all dolled up and going out on the town ensues. Volunteers pick up 100 clients from their homes and make their first stop at Florida Southern College for a sit-down dinner. From there, they travel to Youkey Theater to enjoy the Imperial Symphony Orchestra’s annual holiday concert. The evening out is a source

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of joy for clients who have difficulty driving at night or who may not be able to drive at all.

VISTE also partners with local businesses and individuals to provide gifts to local clients who are part of their Senior Angel Tree. About 150 clients are selected based on need, their Christmas list is collected, and gifts are purchased, wrapped, and dropped off at VISTE the week before Christmas.

Volunteers are needed to play Santa and deliver the gifts.

For the first time, this year VISTE is including donations of baked goods, cookies, and holiday treats to be delivered with holiday hot meals.

If you’re interested in volunteering for the Imperial Symphony Orchestra trip, delivering meals, or volunteering in general, please contact Ashley Metts Miller at ashley@ viste.org or by calling 863.284.0828.

During this busy season, take a moment to add an item to your holiday to-do list.

Make Lakeland a brighter place by giving up a little of your time, and make this Christmas one that neighbors, friends, and community members in need will always remember.

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BREAKING THE RULES WITH COLOR

Nothing breaks the common cloudy palette of neutrals like a pop of color. This season we’re rebelling with monochromatic looks to last you year-round.

T This winter we are saying a brief farewell to the season’s traditional warm, earthy tones and bringing in a whole new perspective with color leading the way. A spectrum of monochromatic ensembles with layers that will not only keep you warm, but break the normal tonal boundaries of your everyday looks. A style revolt is in order as we embrace the use of color to bring a daring direction to your current wardrobe.

Dressing monochromatically creates an overall look with separates of the same hue but in slightly varying shades and textures.

A common tool to help easily visualize the progression of color is to imagine the familiar hardware-store paint swatches with gradient colors. Seeing how the tones start off with one bold hue and with each square progressively gets darker or lighter is the perfect inspiration in creating an overall tonal look within the same color family.

Setting the boundaries of color within each look may seem stifling at first, but the cohesiveness of color allows a new level of flexibility with patterns and textures that may normally seem over the top.

Of-the-moment textures such as suede, velvet, and fur in strong colors combined with neutral pieces may at first seem too overdone.

But within a monochrome look it feels right at home to the eye and makes a statement to complete a well-thought-out look.

Don’t be afraid to mix patterns that have hints of other colors or offsetting the whole look with one contrasting piece such as a white leather jacket. The goal here is to be inspired by one overall color, not boxed in by the fear of breaking any rules — after all, this is a revolt.

Special thanks to Dillard’s at Lakeland Square Mall and What’s New Consignment shop in Lakeland.

written by Taylor Irby / photography by Dan Austin hair and makeup by Yolanda Floyd

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Bombshell Blue

Play with patterns by integrating a strong print design using your statement color. Anchor the print to a bold complementary piece in a varying texture of the same hue.

damask two-piece crop top and skirt: Lucy Paris fur coat: Bomboogie earrings: Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Consignment Shop wedges: Bass

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to mix patterns that have hints of other colors.

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Rambling RosĂŠ

mesh blouse: Gianni Bini suede lace-up skirt: Gianni Bini velvet pumps: Gianni Bini earrings: Cezanne handbag: Michael Kors

Create balance by combining lighter, more sheer, fabrics such as tulle or silk with heavier, more weighty, material such as wool or velvet.

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SPECIAL

ROCKIN' AROUND THE TELEVISION A CHRISTMAS FILM GUIDE

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White Christmas / Paramount Pictures Available on Netflix

Written by Kristin Crosby

A selection of Christmas classics (and not-so-classics) to carry you through the New Year.

C

onsider this The Lakelander’s Christmas movie manual — your entertainment source in an effort to inhale the last of those Christmas cookies, or your survival guide for the remaining days of claustrophobic family gatherings.

We present to you the holiday films that are simply necessary to complete the season.

WHITE CHRISTMAS This musical-comedy-romance classic, written by Irving Berlin, stars the ultimate Christmas crooner, Bing Crosby, and funny man Danny Kaye. A story of American army soldiers revived as Broadway entertainers who set out to save the Columbia Inn owned by a respected former major general in quaint and snowy Pine Tree, Vermont.

Along with rich vocals and snappy dance moves of a sister pair, the four set out to create an unforgettable

The Classics These old-fashioned classics certainly paved the way for holiday films as a solid movie genre. Even in black and white, their Christmas magic lingers throughout the years.

holiday showcase experience.

HOLIDAY INN Another by Irving Berlin, this musical released 12 years before its unintentional sequel, also starring Bing Crosby, was the first to introduce the world to the iconic holiday song “White Christmas.” A heartbroken performer (Crosby) leaves the entertainment business for a hard life on the farm, only to transform his land into an entertaining cottage called Holiday Inn.

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A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Based off the Peanuts comic strip, a Christmas special animation stars Charlie Brown who finds himself with the blues at the wake of the holiday season. While the Peanuts gang gathers to lift his spirits, Charlie soon discovers the true meaning of Christmas.

Originally televised in 1965, this cherished animation features a jazz score by Vince Guaraldi (worth putting on for the kids for the background music alone) that went on to achieve commercial success.

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Miracle on 34th Street / 20th Century Fox Available on Amazon Video MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET A man by the name of Kris Kringle, assigned last minute to the role of Santa for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, is so convincing he soon takes on Santa for Macy’s New York flagship store on 34th Street. As he directs one parent to another store for a better deal, Macy’s wins the loyalty of customers, while Kringle (played by Edmund Gwenn) begins to A MAN NAMED win the belief of the store’s events KRIS KRINGLE IS SO director’s practical, young, old-souled CONVINCING, HE daughter Susan (played by Natalie TAKES ON SANTA FOR Wood). Eventually brought to court for convincing customers and children of MACY'S NEW YORK. his magical identity, the story builds FLAGSHIP STORE ON a newfound hope and belief in young 4TH STREET. Susan and the entire city.

THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER Set in Budapest, this holiday tale from 1940 follows the unlikely romance of Alfred Kralik (James Stewart) and Klara Novak (Margaret Sullavan), employees at Matuschek and Company. Paving the way for classics such as You’ve Got Mail (almost verbatim), Alfred responds to a young lady’s want ad for an anonymous male correspondent while finding himself in endless bantering and bickering with his new co-worker, Klara. Little does Alfred know, falling in love with each written letter, he’s a tad closer to this pen pal than he thinks.

The Cult Classics You have your classics, yes. But then you have your cult classics (two very different things). Films that have built a strong and loyal fan base, cult classics are those movies that ignite repetitive viewing, endless referencing, and annoyingly quotable one-liners. Often deemed failures too quick in the game, cult classics are the ones initially shunned by the public and go on to be timeless, watch-adozen-times-before-Christmas-Eve worthy. In other words: pure movie magic.

A CHRISTMAS STORY Nine-year-old Ralphie Parker’s only Christmas wish is for a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Though his wish is rejected by his mother, friends, and even Santa, come Christmas Day Ralphie is disappointed to discover Christmas wishes don’t come true. Or do they?

The film is based on Jean Shepherd’s semiautobiographical collection of short stories, In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash, originally published in Playboy magazine between 1964 and 1966.

Cult factors: Released in movie theaters shortly before Thanksgiving 1983, the sleeper film rolled in a mere $2 million, along with negative reviews from The New York Times. Overlooked for its small success due to its holiday theme, by Christmas of 1983 the film was already pulled from many venues, remaining in only about 100 theaters until January 1984.

Of course, since then, this beloved film has built a quick following as an American Christmas staple.

Aired on HBO in 1985 and on several networks years after, it inevitably became the 24-hour-marathon Christmas film of choice.

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A Christmas Story / Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Available on Google Play

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NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION With Christmas just a few weeks away, Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) decides it’s time to get the family Christmas tree. Griswold drags his family to the Chicago-suburban wilderness, only to realize he has forgotten his tools. He proceeds to uproot and tie a tree to the roof of the car, setting the stage for the kind of unprepared, offbeat, traditionally unpredictable family holiday.

Cult factors: The third installment of National Lampoon’s Vacation film series, based off a short story called “Christmas ’59” written by John Hughes (also creator of Home

Alone) was originally published in the National Lampoon magazine.

The film received mixed reviews on its initial release and was given only two out of four stars from Roger Ebert of the Chicago SunTimes. Regardless, it quickly grew to become a nationwide comedy favorite.

SCROOGED A narcissistic president of IBC television network, Frank Cross (Bill Murray) is a miserable, slavedriving boss. In preparation for a live production of A Christmas Carol, Cross forces his entire staff to work the holiday, only to grumble out of the studio and find himself in his own modern whirlwind of A Christmas Carol,

meeting with the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. Paired with Murray’s cunning wit and wackiness, this Charles Dickens’ classic was turned into an ’80s cult comedy.

Cult factors: After its release and many critiques, Roger Ebert, of Siskel & Ebert at the time, gave the film a thumbs down, calling it “one of the most disquieting, unsettling films to come along in quite some time.”

From its modest box office taking of $13,027,842, open in just over 1,000 theaters, the film quickly grew as a Murray favorite and became the 13th highest-grossing film in 1988 with $60,328,558.

It’s a Wonderful Life / RKO Radio Pictures Available on iTunes

CULT CLASSICS ARE THOSE FILMS THAT IGNITE REPETITIVE VIEWING, ENDLESS REFERENCING, AND ANNOYINGLY QUOTABLE ONE-LINERS.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation / Warner Bros.

Available on iTunes

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IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE A fantasy/comedy/drama, this story follows the endearing story of George Bailey (James Stewart).

After a series of setbacks causes the desperate Bailey to wish he’d never been born, he contemplates committing suicide. Guardian angel Clarence Odbody is dispatched from Heaven with orders to stop Bailey before his fateful action.

Odbody takes Bailey through a vivid reflection of his past, the lives he impacted, and the drastic changes the town of Bedford Falls would have experienced if Bailey never existed.

A sentimental classic that will make you laugh and cry, it may be the pinnacle film of the moments of truth we live for during the holidays and throughout the year.

Cult factors: No doubt one of the treasured holiday stories to stand the test of time, this Jimmy Stewart classic is commonly mistaken to be an instant hit. Frank Capra’s picture was poorly received its opening weekend, The New York Times commenting on “the weakness of this picture, from

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this reviewer’s point of view, is the sentimentality of it — its illusory concept of life.”

Pushed for an earlier nationwide release to be in the ring for the upcoming Academy Awards, the film lost $525,000 at the box office. And while it received five nominations, it went home recognized only for a Technology Achievement Award at the next year’s Oscars — particularly for its artificial snow.

Not until decades after the film’s release did it become the beloved and televised classic in the 1970s.

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Family Favorites If you simply can’t come to a peaceful agreement on family movie night, here are classic family favorites for all ages that may avoid a few black eyes. While most are fairly recent compared to the timeless ones mentioned earlier, many are sure to make their way to the holiday criterion collection of not-to-be-missed films, at least in our books.

JINGLE ALL THE WAY When a Turbo Man figure becomes the most-wanted Christmas item on every boy’s wish list, one father is ready to fight the masses in order to get his hands on the sold-out toy and rekindle his son’s affections. The unlikely trio of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sinbad, and the late Phil Hartman compete with each other and the race of time for a laugh-out-loud, hysterical Christmas film that’s sure to make your dad hit rewind more than once.

The Family Man / Universal Pictures Available on Google Play

The Underdogs

THE SANTA CLAUSE At the height of his role of Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor (Home Improvement), Tim Allen plays a distant and uninterested single father who is on daddy duty for an underwhelming Christmas Eve. When he accidentally kills Santa, he finds he is magically inducted to the role of Santa Claus.

While we may be quick to assume the best of Christmas movies are done, here are a few gems we recommend before your throw in the towel. Listed here in no particular and (mostly) no biased order.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS While the nostalgic animation of this Dr. Seuss classic story is a must in the holiday film rotations, director Ron Howard brings the story to life in this magical comedy. In what is quite possibly the role he was created for, Jim Carrey stars as the Grinch, somehow simultaneously despicable while winning hearts and laughs in this heartwarming tale.

THE FAMILY STONE If ever there was a dysfunctional family to make yours feel semi-normal, it is the Stones. A tight-laced, conservative businesswoman accompanies her boyfriend on a visit to his sarcastic and carefree family in New England for Christmas and finds herself lost while family dynamics are in disarray (and a few love triangles are formed). A film that somehow makes you feel right at home with its uncomfortable and painfully normal awkward scenarios, it’s truly one you will either hate or absolutely love. (Clearly, we lean towards the latter.)

FRED CLAUS The always demeaning, bitter, yet laughable Vince Vaughn plays the role of Fred Claus, brother of Santa Claus (Paul Giamatti). Forced to move to the North Pole after Santa bails him out of jail, Fred must pay his brother back by helping make this year’s Christmas production a success.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas / Universal Pictures Available on Netflix

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THE FAMILY MAN Would any movie list be complete without a Nicholas Cage film? Surely. But this overlooked film, with a married couple that rekindles their romance, just might be the exception. A self-absorbed Wall Street hot shot, after a swift moment of life-changing events, finds himself waking up to the woman he could have married 13 years ago. In a modern spin of It’s a Wonderful Life, Cage’s egotistical character endures a change of heart that makes him reconsider his future.

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Home Alone / 20th Century Fox Available on Amazon Video

A Charlie Brown Christmas / ABC Available on ABC Go

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WHILE MOST OF THESE FILMS ARE FAIRLY NEW WHEN COMPARED TO SOME CLASSICS, MANY ARE SURE TO MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE HOLIDAY CRITERION COLLECTION, AT LEAST IN OUR BOOKS.

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*

Staff’s Favorites

Dale Kimsey

Daniel Barceló

Anushka van Huyssteen

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Home Alone 1 & 2

The Family Stone

Although I was still an only child when I saw the first one, I could definitely relate to Kevin McCallister and how overlooked he felt. I would never get away with being as bratty as he is in the film, but I could empathize with his frustration. My parents were often busy, so I learned to be pretty responsible as a kid and was occasionally left to my own devices. I remember thinking I’d be smarter than Kevin if left in similar situations. Both films are full of goofy slapstick comedy that had me laughing hysterically as a kid and some witty dialogue that keeps me amused to this day.

Diane Keaton and Rachel McAdams’ characters make this movie. It’s always been a cozy and familiar-feeling movie for me. The tight-knit family with all of their own dysfunctional problems is not only entertaining but also relatable.

I can relate to the Griswold family. I’ve done some of the stupid things Clark does and says.

Favorite scene: When Cousin Eddie shows up at Clark’s house in his motor home.

Eddie: “You surprised to see us, Clark?”

Clark: “Oh, Eddie... If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn’t be more surprised than I am now.”

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Elf / New Line Cinema Available on Amazon Video

Kristin Crosby

Brandon Patterson

When Harry Met Sally

Elf

Though The Family Stone easily tops the list for the neurotic normalcy of family gatherings, or Home Alone 2 (because getting lost in NYC was my childhood dream), When Harry Met Sally is a perfect holiday film for its combination of the Big Apple through the seasons: chunky cable-knit turtleneck sweaters, oversized plaid blazers, high-waisted trousers, and Nora Ephron’s cunning, immortal wit.

Great blend of fairytale and present day. Full of humor while highlighting the contrast between an elf and us. We watch it every year.

Favorite scene: When Buddy is at his dad’s office, and the phone rings, and Buddy answers it with, “Buddy the elf, what’s your favorite color?”

Jason Jacobs A Christmas Story

Laura Burke A Charlie Brown Christmas I was nine years old when I first saw A Charlie Brown Christmas, and even at that age I was intrigued by how different it was from any other cartoon I’d seen. The message of faith and hope, and that wonderful soundtrack, added so much to the show’s spirit and mood. One music critic later wrote that the songs were “small, observant miracles.” That’s exactly how it felt to me, too.

Curt Patterson National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Favorite Quote: When Clark is standing next to Eddie looking at Eddie’s RV, and Eddie says, “Now Clark, what we have here is a genuine RV. Now don’t go falling in love with it, because it’s coming with us when we leave here next month!”

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The Old Man Parker (Darren McGavin) reminds me of my own father. He is an intimidating but loving father with a sense of humor. I’ve watched it many times since the first year it came out. Too many to count.

Favorite scene: the “It's a major award” scene Deb Patterson Elf I love how Elf can look at Christmas through the eyes of a child and also his enthusiasm about everyone he meets. What’s sad is that he finds out not everyone loves it like he does.

Favorite scene: the dinner scene where he talks about his food groups

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HISTORY

Employees from Lakelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kress Department Store pose for a staff photo on Christmas Eve, 1929.

Photo courtesy of Lakeland Public Library.

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