EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
APRIL 2020 1
2
APRIL 2020
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
APRIL 2020 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
=
6
TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 16 Issue 9 April 2020 6
Top Pandemic Films
8
Six Feet Apart You Can Still Be Social
12 How To Pass The Time 16 Time To Vote For Your Favorite Bartender
COLUMNS: 11 What's Rustling
8
Six Feet ApartYou Can Still Be Social
15 Tracey's Tid-Bits 23 On-o-mato-poe-ia
LISTINGS: 10 Local Live Music 14 Snap Shotz 20 Restaurant Listing
STAFF
12
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:
CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE
COLUMNS TRACEY GREENE JAMES COULTER
How To Pass The Time
THE FUN & AMUSING:
22 Crossword
Wow, what a time we are in right now. This is not how to start 2020. We are going to do our best to keep you up-to-date on what is happening in our county in regards to dining, events and entertainment. Please see our Facebook page for updates and information. These are trying times, we need to rally around our community; practice social distancing to flatten the COVID-19 curve so we can bounce back as quickly as possible and get this country back to normal! Support "Mom & Pop" shops and restaurants by to-go, delivery and curbside services. Small business is the backbone of America so we WILL survive! We know that cancellations are occurring daily. So, please contact venues to confirm that events are still scheduled. Expect More, Get More, We Deliver. Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor
Top Pandemic Films
Jimmy's Jimmies?
22 Brain Exercise
EDITOR’S NOTE
ERICA SMITH
EDITORIAL
16
ERICA SMITH ELIZABETH MORRISEY
AMY SUMERLIN JAMES COULTER
PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS
Time To Vote For You Favorite Bartender
MIKE POTTHAST
SALES TRACEY GREENE - VP of Advertising BOB CURTIS - Senior Executive Media Director MELANIE BROWN - Advertising Representative WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR NEW SALES REPS. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE SEND INFO TO TRACEY@TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
Tell Us What You Think
SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO: Today & Tonight Magazine, PO BOX 2612, Winter Haven, FL 33883 Email: chris@todayandtonight.com. Letters must be signed, please include your town and phone number.
*Please note that due to the covid-19 virus, cancellations are occurring daily. Please contact venues to confirm that events are still scheduled.
4
APRIL 2020
PUBLISHED BY: Today & Tonight, Inc. PO Box 2612 Winter Haven, FL 33883 Phone: 863.401.8001 email: chris@todayandtonight.com Reproduction in whole or in part of this magazine is prohibited without written permission from Today & Tonight, Inc. Copyright, 2020 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
Get 20% Off Get Up Guarantee CODE: RideECP
elitecablepark.com EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER! ECP GUG 20 RIDEECP.indd 1
APRIL 2020 5 2/25/2020 8:54:02 AM
TOP PANDEMIC FILMS Help Pass “Social Distancing” Time By Tracey Greene I’ll have to admit that I have not seen MOST of these “outbreak” pandemic disaster movies, just as I do not watch slasher-films, as they are typically not in my wheel house of movie genre. Personally, since we have so much craziness going on in the real world, I do not like to be “entertained” by these allto-real death pandemic themed movies that only launch fears even more. But, that being said, we have lots of time on our hands so why not watch some acclaimed movie classics which (some) predicted a type of outbreak that (could) potentially cripple society as we know it…art imitating real-life or art becoming reality? Here’s a list of movies comprised from several outlets on the internet. Some are very realistic, some are thrown in for a (little) relief from all the horror! And, of course lots of zombies! We would love to hear from fans how many of these movies you have seen in the past or will watch during your
6
APRIL 2020
“social distancing” time at home. Hey, this could be a good happy hour topic of discussion with friends through Facetime and other virtual platforms; the Movie Review Club! Friends can each choose a movie to watch and then discuss it…with wine or other adult beverages, of course! Whatever it takes to get us through this time of uncertainty and a little insanity. Movies are in ascending order by year: 1. “The Seventh Seal” 1957 2. “The Last Man on Earth” 1964, “The Omega Man” 1971, “I Am Legend” 2007 (all three films derived from the 1954 novel by Richard Matheson “I Am Legend”) 3. “The Andromeda Strain” 1971 4. “Dawn of the Dead” 1978; remake in 2004 5. “Outbreak” 1995 6. “12 Monkeys” 1995 7. “Cabin Fever” 2002 8. “Resident Evil” Series 2002-2017 LOVE THIS SERIES! Girl power!! 9. “28 Days Later” 2003; Sequel “28
Weeks Later” 2007 10. “The Day After Tomorrow” 2004 SEEN IT! 11. “Blindness” 2008 12. “The Happening” 2008 13. “Quarantine” 2008 14. “Cloverfield” 2008 SEEN IT! 15. “Carriers” 2009 16. “Black Death” 2010 17. “The Crazies” 2010 18. “The Walking Dead” 2010-2019 Series SEEN Many Seasons! 19. “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” 2011 SEEN IT! 20. “Contagion” 2011 SEEN IT! Everyone needs to watch this one! 21. “Chernobyl Diaries” 2012
22. “World War Z” 2013 23. “Warm Bodies” 2013 24. “Between” 2015-2016 Series (Netflix) 25. “10 Cloverfield Lane” 2016 26. “93 Days” 2016 27. “Containment” 2016 Series (Netflix) 28. “It Comes at Night” 2017 29. “Cargo” 2017 30. “Bird Box” 2018 31. “The Rain” 2018 32. “Ravenous” 1999 33. “Pandemic” 2020 Docuseries (Netflix) Many of these movies/series are available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu and Netflix services.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
Central Florida’s
Visitor Info CEN TER
GIFTS, TICKETS & LOCAL INSIGHTS
Ready to make the most of your weekends? Save on tickets to theme parks, grab local event listings, find new places to chow down, and more at your all-in-one resource for Central Florida fun.
101 Adventure Court, Davenport, FL 33837 | (800) 828-7655 Open: 8 am - 5 pm daily | VISITCENTRALFLORIDA.ORG/VIC
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
APRIL 2020 7
By Amy Sumerlin So, you’ve survived the first couple weeks of social distancing while working from home and starting your new job as a homeschool teacher. But it’s the weekend, you’ve already cleaned all your closets, and that social side of you is just itching to come out. You still have options. Fun ones at that.
“DINE OUT WITH TAKE OUT”
I know your second favorite “F” word is food (Friday is the first, right?) and Polk County is chock full of great restaurants that make other larger counties jealous. Fortunately, most our local restaurants are still whipping up your favorites—you just have to eat it at home. In your PJs. Doesn’t sound so bad now, does it? Many of these restaurants will deliver, too. For example, Smokin’ Jim’s in Auburndale delivered to a group of my co-workers in Bartow; he just requested that the group’s total hit at least $50. Heck, I could eat $50 of his pulled pork all by my lonesome. I guess I shouldn’t say that word right now, should I?
Frescos
Located in downtown Lakeland, Frescos has started a Meals to Go Program – menus change each week – but the latest one I’m looking at included Creole Shrimp ($30 for two servings; $50 for four) or Beef Tenderloin Tips ( also $30 for two servings; $50 for four), among others. Better, you could add-on a bottle of wine for $15 or a bottle of their exclusive Frescos Barrel Pick Stranahans’ Cask Strength Single Malt for $40. To view their special weekly menus: https://frescoslakeland.com/ an-update-from-frescos/#weeklymenus also you can sign up online to be added to their email list for future menus, specials and promotions. Right now, they are also offering a buy $25 gift certificate, get an additional $5 for free.
Arabella's
Similarly, Arabella’s in downtown Winter Haven has created a to-go menu—and if you’ve never tried this Five Star restaurant, now is the time. The choices are awesome – including Veal or Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Marsala (that’s what I’m going to take home Friday night) and a Shrimp Greek Salad – and any of them are $12 per person. They are also offering a discount on their bottles of wine to also complete your meal. Menu changes, please check out their Facebook page for details @ArabellasRistorante. Call (863) 293-1797 to order. Their pizzeria, Bistro Pizza, next door is also offering great deals on pizza “to-go” as well as their regular menu: 2-2 topping 12” pizza $20, 2-2 topping 16” pizza $30, 2-2 topping 16” pizza & 12 piece wings $30! Call (863) 875-4894 to order. Check out their Facebook page for details @BistroPizza326.
Tanner's Lakeside Restaurant
Tanner’s Lakeside in Winter Haven is offering Boat-in and Drive-in for to-go orders Friday, Saturday & Sunday. They are also offering beer, wine and other beverages to-go. Come by boat and enjoy a cool refreshing frozen drink while waiting for your food: Hurricane, Margarita, Pina Colada and Rum Runners. Ask for the 10% off to-go special at the time of ordering; offer valid until April 30th (restrictions may apply). Call (863) 6625948. Check out their Facebook page for details @ TannersLakeside 8
APRIL 2020
Flightline Café
Some of our local restauranteurs are serving up their offerings with a side of humor. Flightline Café at The Winter Haven Airport is offering a variety of packs for customers to pick up. For instance, their Meat Lovers Pack gets you four pounds of pulled pork, two pounds of beef brisket, two BBQ chicken breasts, and a pound each of coleslaw and baked beans for $55—a really good price, I think. One of their other packs, the Quarantine Pack, offers you a gallon of milk, six bottles of water, a dozen eggs, a loaf of bread, one pound each of ham, cheese, and bacon; six bags of chips – and a roll of toilet paper. Call (863) 875-5869 to order or for more details. Check out their Facebook page for details @ FlightlineCafe.
Born & Bread Bakehouse
Born & Bread Bakehouse is now offering online ordering for their Saturday bakes. New menu is posted on Facebook each week. Place your order and time slot, then drive to their shop on South Florida Ave in Lakeland. Check in and wait for name to be called when your order has been filled. These will be the best Croissants, Cruffins and Breads ever tasted outside of Italy and France! Limited quantities baked for each Saturday so place your order on the Wednesday before because their fans scoop up their baked goods fast! Check out their Facebook page for details @ BornandBreadBakehouse
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
ADD MORE PEOPLE TO THE PARTY
After that first FaceTime event, I looked into more options for dialing additional couples into the fun, all at the same time. I immediately signed up for Zoom, where the basic plan is free—but you are limited to 40 minutes. With Skype, you can host up to 50 people and party for four hours at a time.
PLAY GAMES
These parties can be more than just conversation. Host a trivia night or play Cards Against Humanity (you can download the game) or even Pictionary or Charades—check out the Mural platform for a virtual whiteboard.
VIRTUAL WINE TASTING
Have a virtual happy hour party. footies – but hey, why not? Head to the Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland, at 4100 New Tampa Highway (did you know they’ve been open since 1948?). You’ll pay $2 for kids and $6 for adults – and that allows you watch two movies, in the comfort of your car, munching on popcorn. First movie begins at 8:15 PM. FMI: (863) 682-0849.
PLAY GOLF
Gourmet Goodies
My go-to bakery – is showing their resilience and humor several ways. If you’re kids are bored, check out their cookie kit—you get six sugar cookies, plus the icing and sprinkles to decorate them. Also available is the cupcake decorating kit for only $10. If you just want something for yourself, their toilet paper themed cookies will make you laugh. Better, they deliver with a $15 minimum order… and you get a free roll of toilet issue with every delivery order (while supplies last). And, of course, they have more than cookies. They have a large selection of yummy cupcakes, are true artists with cake decoration, and their cheesecakes are to die for. Call 863-318-1400 for more info. Check out their Facebook page for details @GourmetGoodies.
ONCE YOU GET IT HOME
Tired of eating out of Styrofoam? Bring out your best China. Light candles. Dine on the deck – a change of scenario is good!
GO SEE A MOVIE
Yes, I know – all the Cineplexes and Multiplexes are closed. But don’t forget the option that was one of your parents’ favorites… the Drive In. If you’re like me, you probably haven’t been to one of these since the last time you wore PJs with EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
As of press time, if golfing is pleasure, you’re still in luck – just avoid the high-fives and handshakes and make sure you are playing smart: Stay at least six feet away from other players; wipe your club handle down as much as possible; wash your hands at each restroom you pass; and you know that extra space in your golf bag next to your tees or balls? Put your hand sanitizer there. And use it. Playing golf offers another bonus to avoid becoming a complete couch potato—exercise. Just skip the cart if you can – that’s one less thing you must touch. If you can’t avoid it, come prepared with hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. Wipe down the wheel, the keys, the seat, and the handles. As of press time, the following courses were still open: Bartow, Willowbrook, Country Club of Winter Haven (private), Highlands Reserve, Dundee Road Driving Range, Streamsong, Lily Lake, Grenelefe, Southern Dunes, Stonegate, Lake Wales Country Club, Oakwood Golf Club, Indian Lake Estates, Huntington Hills, Links of Sandpiper, The Club at Eaglebrooke, Grasslands (private), Lone Palm (private), Sanlan, Wedgewood, Big Cypress and Imperial Lakes.
HAVE A VIRTUAL PARTY
I can’t take credit for this idea – my friend Dianne texted me the other night and said, “How about we do a FaceTime Happy Hour Saturday night?” It was a blast—it truly felt like we had a “real” party, and we have plans to do more of those with other friends. In fact, we might take those next parties up a notch and do some of the following ideas:
Grab (not literally) some of your wine loving friends and set up a Virtual Wine Tasting. I mean, why not – you’re drinking anyway— let’s make this fun and educational. Some of the wineries currently setting these up include: St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery: They will host a virtual tasting every Thursday afternoon (at 3:00 or 5:30 pm PDT). Each week they will focus on a different wine in a six-pack they’re making available at special rates. (Zoom is the platform; Facebook Live is the second option.) Kendall-Jackson: Look for “At Home with Kendall-Jackson”, which will be a series of short-format virtual wine-tasting videos, broadcast to the winery’s Facebook and Instagram channels. Francis Ford Coppola Winery will begin offering virtual wine tastings soon; tastings will be announced on its website, Facebook and Instagram.
HOST A NETFLIX PARTY
If you love movies, plan a virtual watch party. Download the Netflix Party extension in Chrome, and you and your buddies can watch the same Netflix movie at the same time. The extension features synchronized video playback (so everyone’s screen will pause and resume at the same time during “intermission”). Better it also offers a chat room so you can compare notes on the actors, the plots, and more!
JUST GO WILD
I have one more option for you – another idea from one of my friends. The other day I logged onto Facebook and saw Portia posting Zoo photos. What?? Come to find out, Wild Florida in Kenansville (about 25 miles from Polk County) offers a DriveThrough Safari. Without ever leaving your car, you and your family will be able to observe wild animals such as giraffes, zebra, antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more; their website says visitors will see over 100 native and exotic animals roaming freely. Price is $15 for adults and $10 for children. FMI: wildfl.com; 3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville. (407) 957-3135. This social distancing and pandemic will be a blip in time for our history and daily lives will get back to normal, hopefully very soon. Until then make the best of it and get creative to spend some “social” time with family and friends. APRIL 2020 9
TYCHO wsg COM TRUISE AND SAINT SINNER (Hard Rock Live, ORL) THE LUMINEERS wsg SHAKEY GRAVES & JADE BIRD (Hard Rock Live, ORL)
APRIL/MAY CONCERT CALENDAR *Please note that due to the covid-19 virus, cancellations are occurring daily. Please check Facebook pages to confirm that these events are still scheduled.
(Out-n-About Bar, DUN) MELISSA LEE ZENKER (Yard on Mass, LKD) KAI7EN (Leo’s Live, LKD) CRISTI AND JOHN (Fresco’s, LKD)
FRIDAY, APR 17
SATURDAY, APR 25
OCCASIONAL ASTRONAUTS (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) SPF 60 (Leo’s Live, LKD) DULCIMER (Central Park, WH) LIVE HART (The Brass Tap, LKD) COMIN’ HOME (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) TOOL wsg BLONDE REDHEAD (Amway Center, ORL)
SATURDAY, APR 18
TOMTRICK 1p/ RED HOT ROOSTER 8p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) HARLEQUIN (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) T MIKE & DUKE (Gator Mack’s, LW) MELISSA LEE ZENKER (Federal Bar, LKD)
SUNDAY, APR 19
THE BROKE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) T MIKE & DUKE (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) AGGIE ROAD (Sunset Tavern, HC) THE CONSPIRACY BAND (Keel & Curley Winery, P CTY) TOOL wsg BLONDE REDHEAD (Amalie Arena, TMP)
TUESDAY, APR 21
RANDY GOIN (Out-n-About Bar, DUN)
WEDNESDAY, APR 22 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) FIRE JASS TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH) MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, APR 23
MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
FRIDAY, APR 24 JOE REID & THE HEARTLAND
10
APRIL 2020
SATURDAY, MAY 2
JAGER MAFIA (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) BLIND AMBITION (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) SHANE MEADE & THE SOUND (Brew Hub, LKD)
JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Project Eagle/Lk Shipp, WH) FREE WHISKEY BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) WONDERLAND (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) TRAVIS WILLIAMS & MICAH MALORE (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) THE STEEL WOODS (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) 10,000 PAPERCUTS (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) BLUE COLLAR BAND (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) NIALL HORAN wsg LWEIS CAPALDI & FLETHCER (Amway Center, ORL)
SUNDAY, MAY 3
SUNDAY, APR 26
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6
BINGE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) FOLEY, BURNS & DIXON (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) THE ASHLEY GANG, PAUL GARFINKEL & AL SCORTINO (Swan Brewing, LKD)
TUESDAY, APR 28
MICKENZIE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN)
WEDNESDAY, APR 29 MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, APR 30
MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) RENDITION (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH)
FRIDAY, MAY 1
KOLT 45 (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) OLDEN KNEW (Mainstreet Taproom, AV PK) OMARION & BOW WOW wsg ASHANTI, YING YANG TWINS, LLOYD, SAMMIE, PRETTY RICKY AND SOULJA BOY (Amalie Arena, TMP)
APRIL RED (Sunset Tavern, HC) FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) BING FUTCH (Swan Brewing, LKD) KEEP US SANE (Yard on Mass, LKD)
MONDAY, MAY 4
THE FRONT BOTTOMS wsg POM POM SQUAD (Hard Rock Live, ORL)
TUESDAY, MAY 5
LUBECK (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 7
MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
FRIDAY, MAY 8
BLUE ROOSTER (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) PRAISE IN THE PARK (Central Park, WH) BINGE (Leo’s Live, LKD) DREW LEBLANC (1845 Taphouse, DVPT) SAVED BY THE 90’S (House of Blues, ORL)
SATURDAY, MAY 9
POWER SURGE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) THE BROKE (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) WONDERLAND (WH’s Bar Off The Chain, WH) SEAN CHAMBERS (Music Ranch, LKD) YUNG PINCH (House of Blues, ORL)
SATURDAY, MAY 23
TUESDAY, MAY 12
STEVIE WONDER MUSIC TRIBUTE (Ritz Theatre, WH) ASKING ALEXANDRIA w/ FALLING IN REVERSE (House of Blues, ORL)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 14
CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE MUSIC OF WOODSTOCK (RP Funding Center, LKD) MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) JHENE AIKO (Hard Rock Live, ORL)
SUNDAY, MAY 24
FRIDAY, MAY 15
ELTON JOHN (Amalie Arena, TMP)
OLDEN KNEW (Apple Lounge, WH) DULCIMER (Central Park, WH) COLT FORD (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) STABBING WESTWARD wsg CURSE MACKEY (House of Blues, ORL)
SATURDAY, MAY 16
CAROL GRAYSON RECITAL (RP Funding Center, LKD) JOSH BLEVINS (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) JOHNNY DEBT (Swan Brewing, LKD) DUELING PIANOS (Ritz Theatre, WH)
SUNDAY, MAY 17
FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) MICAH MADORE DUO (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 21
MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Pink Piano, LKD)
FRIDAY, MAY 22 SUNDAY, MAY 10
FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) JIM CURRY; JOHN DENVER TRIB (Polk Theatre, LKD)
FOLEY, BURNS & AGGIE ROAD (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) SHANE MEADE & THE SOUND (Brew Hub, LKD) LIVE HART (The Brass Tap, LKD) RUMOR HAZIT (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) MAJAH HYPE (Hard Rock Live, ORL)
OLDEN KNEW (Apple Lounge, WH) DULCIMER (Central Park, WH) HARLEQUIN (Leo’s Live, LKD)
FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) JOEY FOLEY (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
TUESDAY, MAY 26
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 28 MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) ELTON JOHN (Amway Center, ORL) TINASHE (House of Blues, ORL)
FRIDAY, MAY 29
10,000 PAPERCUTS (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH)
SATURDAY, MAY 30
RENDITION (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) FONDA CASH MUSIC; FLEETWOOD MAC TRIB. (Ritz Theatre, WH) BRYAN MAYS (Fire Restaurant, WH) STRIZZO, SECKOND CHAYNCE (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) BLUE COLLAR BAND (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) BOSTON & STIX MUSIC TRIBUTE (Ritz Theatre, WH)
ATTENTION BANDS & VENUES Keep us up to date. Send live music info to tracey@todayandtonight.com Deadline is the 23rd of each month prior to publication.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
Robin Hood Is A Mood
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
As with everyone else, I’ve been stuck at home due to the coronavirus scare. To help pass the time during my “social distancing”, I’ve been making good use of my Disney+ subscription. I’ve watched many movies I haven’t seen since childhood. One of these films is Robin Hood. I have fond memories of watching and re-watching this animated classic, as my parents often borrowed it for me from the video rental store. Having recently watched it for the first time since childhood, not only was I reminded why I loved this movie, but I also realized how much this nearly 50-year-old film reflects our current world. Nottingham is “taxed enough already.” High taxes force the townsfolk into poverty, leaving them unable to pay for basic living expenses. Meanwhile, the average American household spent $9,562 on food and clothing, but $16,749 on federal, state, and local taxes, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Like the residents of Nottingham, Americans pay more in taxes than they do for food on the table and shirts on their backs. In Nottingham, taxes are collected by the corrupt Sheriff. When not busy chasing down Robin Hood, he prioritizes collecting taxes over performing his sworn duty “to protect and serve.” He’s willing to commit any underhanded deed, from shaking down an injured dog to seizing a little boy’s birthday present, to wring the poor citizens of everything they’re worth. Many American police departments have used traffic tickets and other fees and fines from municipal violations to raise revenue for local government. Following the shooting of Michael Brown in 2014, the Department of Justice uncovered evidence in Ferguson of “systemic racial discrimination and abuse by law enforcement that effectively transformed local police into tax collectors”, as “fines and fees contributed more than 23 percent” of its revenue in 2015, the Washington Post reported. Other American
municipalities practice similar money-grubbing tactics, which disproportionally hurt poor and marginalized citizens. The Sheriff of Nottingham works for the wicked monarch, Prince John, a selfish, greedy tyrant who basks in the wealth collected from his “beautiful, lovely taxes!” He also has a high opinion of himself, lashing out at anyone who doesn’t share that opinion. His arrogance earns “The Phony King of England” ridicule and mockery from the townsfolk. “He sits alone on a giant throne pretendin’ he’s the king,” they sing. “A little tyke who’s rather like a puppet on a string.” Unfortunately, when he learns about it, he punishes them by threatening to “Double the taxes! Triple the taxes! Squeeze every last drop out of those insolent musical peasants.” This may seem over-the-top, but when Saturday Night Live is threatened with a federal probe for daring to make fun of our current president, our real world seems more over-the-top than fiction. No doubt if Twitter existed back then, Prince John would be tweeting how the peasants are spreading “fake news” with their “not funny/no talent” song and dance. And what happens when they can’t pay their taxes? They go to jail. Near the movie’s end, most of the townsfolk are imprisoned: men, women, even children! Give credit to Prince John, though: at least when he detains families, he doesn’t separate children from their parents! In a time when Americans are taxed to death, when the police care more about lining their pockets, and when our leaders act greedy, vain, and cruel, Robin Hood proves relevant now more than ever. For this reason, the medieval fairy tale and its titular character remain forever timeless. If only good old-Robbie was around to save us. Oo-DeLally! QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Info@todayandtonight.com APRIL 2020 11
HOW TO PASS THE TIME When All You Have Is Time…
By Tracey Greene Don’t let Cabin Fever get you down for this City-County-StateNational mandated “stay-cation”. Our world seems to have tipped off its axis like an upside-down bizarre-o-world kind-of-society which can be especially hard for Americans accustomed to many freedoms, indulgences and, for lack of a better word, being a little selfish…now is the time to act in a positive manner and come together in our community to help “flatten” the curve. Do not react in a selfish manner by continuing about daily routines and social habits by not social-distancing, not considering other people, their lives and their family members. It’s time to reflect, react positively and with kindness. Whether we like it or not, what we do each day directly affects many other people. COVID-19 is spreading at an alarming rate much to do with the fact that some people are carriers spreading the virus without knowing it, never becoming ill or only showing slight symptoms and, most importantly, they are not social distancing themselves from others. 12
APRIL 2020
DON’T BE A COUCH POTATO
Just because the virus has caused us to be “home bodies” does not give free rein to just lay on the couch for 18 hours a day and veg-out watching TV. Limit your exposure. Alternate playing music in the house, playing games, to watching TV to also just leaving the TV off. Sometimes quiet time is good…Go sit outside for a scenery change, find a tree in the backyard to have lunch under, go for a walk down the street, play outside with the kids.
DON’T CONSUME TOO MUCH INFO ON COVID-19
This can cause unnecessary stress and a feeling of doom & gloom. Listen to updates, in the morning and in the evening, from reputable news sources. Don’t watch the news or read news flashes that hit your cell phones throughout the day. It can cause you to “go down the rabbit hole” and be information over-load!
DON’T GET DEPRESSED
If you have a history of depression or feel depressed, make sure that you talk to family, friends and professionals when these feelings
start creeping in. Being alone and feeling isolated from society takes its tolls on people in different ways. It’s ok to feel sad or scared but learn how to manage these feelings in a positive productive way. Reach out to crisis hotlines and websites devoted to helping give emotional support.
DON’T SELF-MEDICATE
When things feel like they are out of our control, some people cope by drinking more alcohol or smoking more often or overeating food or taking prescription and non-prescription drugs. With extra time on our hands, we should use it to better ourselves not become more destructive to our bodies. Take one day at a time! Limit the amount of alcohol in your house and the amount you are allotted each day – same goes for cigarettes, vaping and drugs. For food, plan out your meals and snacks for the day and don’t deviate from the schedule. Be realistic with your food plans, and don’t try to cut back too drastically. Food journals are definitely your friends…Not only will this save you money, but it will keep you healthier. Those with compromised immune systems are more likely to contract COVID-19 with fatal outcomes.
DO SPRING CLEANING
It is springtime. Get out those “Honey Do Lists” and make a plan of attack to tackle one project each week. Time to repair, re-organize, clean and downsize items not needed. These are perfect family activities. And, possibly you will find items to sell online to make money which is very important right now. Just remember if hosting garage sales do so after the “social distancing” has been loosened. Remember, we can all get gung-ho and invigorated about new starting new projects but try not to be an over-achiever thinking that you will do a new project every day. One per week is great and very do-able!
DO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE FOR EXERCISE
Even though we are practicing “social distancing” this does not have to mean spend every minute of every day cooped up in your house. As a single person, a couple or a family, we all must get out of the house, breath some fresh air and move our bodies. Carve out some time each day to go for a walk, bike ride, hike, canoe, paddle board,
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
jet ski, go boating/skiing, go fishing, play golf; don’t forget that your dogs need exercise too. Extra reason to take walks each day! Just remember the same “social distancing” applies. Stay 6 feet away from others while walking, biking, hiking etc… boats/personal watercrafts must stay 50 feet away from each other in the water; no tying up together or flotillas. Golfers are one person per cart unless you are a family member, then there can be 2 in a cart or just walk the course to get more exercise. But above all, remember to wash your hands, sanitize equipment after each use and do not go out if not feeling well.
DO TURN TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook, YouTube, and other Social Media Platforms for social interactions. I must admit that I have never been the biggest fan of Facebook as well as all of the other social media platforms. To me, it’s had a negative effect on society. HOWEVER, now in the middle of a pandemic, it’s been a way to truly keep us
connected, informed and sharing information. Let’s all continue to use it in a positive manner and leave the negativity behind.
DO ENJOY VIRTUAL TOURS
Did you know that you can enjoy many national museums, and zoos virtually? How about taking a virtual yoga class, listen to a virtual church service for uplifting messages or enjoy the soothing sounds of a carillon concert at Bok Tower Gardens? It’s all possible and MOST is free! However, donations are always accepted.
DO ENJOY FREE ENTERTAINMENT
Three cheers for celebs for entertaining us for FREE! Many celebrities are reaching out to fans through Facebook, TikTok, etc. to entertain through song, dance, skits or deliver PSA messages about staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nice to see since they have made millions off of the community that loves and admires them. Perfect time to give back so that we, the people, feel appreciated, too.
The Silver Lining As strong people, we need to take each negative and look to the silver lining to help get us through or possibly just for a little laugh. Here are some that have come to mind over the last few weeks:
WASH OUR HANDS
We’ve now all learned again how important it is to wash our hands and how to properly do so.
TOILET PAPER
We learned that in a pandemic, the crazy people will hoard all the toilet paper. Guess we should all keep a 24-pack on hand at all times! Now the rest of us have learned how much we use (and wasted) on a daily basis and how little we actually really need to get by! Two squares, please… We have also resorted to thinking about what we would need to do to get by without it: next are tissues, then the napkins, then cut up paper towels, grab the baby wipes (no flushing them), catalog and magazine pages, grab the mis-matched socks, use
wash cloths and disinfect in the washing machine. Hey, it’s the good ‘ol days all over again. The days when moms had to wash out by-hand diapers to reuse…
MAKING YOUR OWN HAND SANITIZER
Cause the same crazy people that bought up all the toilet paper also bought up all the hand sanitizer! A fun DIY project for at home. Just make sure that your alcohol is between 60-80% in strength when making.
IT’S “OK” NOT TO SHAKE HANDS
Fist bumps, elbow bumps and “jazz hands” are all great ways to say HELLO and GOOD-BYE. “Jazz hands” are fun!
TOUCHING OUR FACE
We are now very aware that we ALL touch our faces A LOT. Ugh! Are we ever going to be able to correct this one?
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
FLU SEASON
Hopefully we will see a dramatic decline in this year’s flu season due to social distancing, staying at home when not feeling well and washing our hands more!
STRICTER ENFORCEMENT OF CLEANING AT BUSINESSES
We all get complacent about things we are supposed to do on a regular basis. Personal hygiene and cleaning at the workplace are two of them. My hopes are that business owners and managers keep a stricter hold on staff and continue to train. This only helps our community stay safe.
WORKING AT HOME CAN BE TOUGH
especially with family members cooped up with you. Yes, sometimes we all want to kill each other. But, if each person finds their own personal space in the house for working – or just to have some separation, this will
help. I’ve worked from home for years, and I love it! However, working at home with a partner and living at home with a partner can be tough. In my situation, one works upstairs, one works downstairs. We communicate via text. We meet in the middle for lunch time. I take several breaks throughout the day to walk my dogs; always good to get a change of scenery. The other runs errands for the company. It’s a balance! But, know when to turn off the workday or it will consume you for many hours in the day.
GOING OLD SCHOOL
There's a pile of (tangible) books lying around that we keep saying we would love to have more time to read…well…
CLEANING THE HOUSE & LAUNDRY
Of course, with all of this extra time at home, all of us should have a spotless house, no dishes in the sink and all laundry done, folded and put away…hmmm, wouldn’t that be nice! APRIL 2020 13
SNAPSHOTZ Call your favorite bar For more information!
PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO COVID-19, ALL BARS/CLUBS ARE TEMPORARILY CLOSED BY THE GOVERNOR UNTIL APRIL 30TH. AT THIS TIME MANY RESTAURANTS ARE OFFERING TO-GO SERVICES FOR FOOD AND ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
AUBURNDALE Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 102 W. Polk Street (863) 968-0010 Full Liquor Sports Bar TVs for the Games Bottoms Up Sports Bar 419 E. Bridgers Ave (863) 845-2913 Karaoke, Pool Tables Beer & Wine Find Us On Facebook Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd. (863) 967-2739 Mon-Fri, $3 Craft Beers 5-7p Wed, Trivia 6p Pool, Darts, Full Liquor Sunday Ticket May 5, Cinco de Mayo Specials
BABSON PARK Crooked Bass Grill/Tavern 1010 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 589-5887 Full Liquor Seafood, Steaks & Burgers Live Music Fri & Sat Pool Table & Darts
BARTOW Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 East Van Fleet Drive (863) 534-3111 Full Liquor Sports Bar Fun Bar 3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400 Karaoke Pool Table & Darts Mulligan’s Sports Bar Bartow Golf Club 150 N. Idlewood (863) 533-1668 Fri, Karaoke 7-10p
14
APRIL 2020
Presented By Brew Hounds Sports Lounge The Wine Stable 150 S. Broadway (863) 533-9463 Full Bar Live Music
HAINES CITY
DAVENPORT
Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Blvd (863) 588-3097 Open to the Public! Patio Dining & Full Bar Daily Food & Drink Specials Locals Food Discount! Fri, Sat & Sun Music on Patio
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350 Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps Fireside Lounge & Billiards 43356 Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 2-7p Live Music The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880 TVs, Pool Table Darts, Jukebox Wed & Sat, Karaoke 9p The Wheelhouse/19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560 Tue & Fri, Karaoke 9p Thu, Trivia 8-10p
DUNDEE Out-n-About Bar (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537 Tue, Fri, Sat & Sun, Live Music Tue, Tacos 1/2 price w/purch. Wed, Wings 1/2 price w/purch. Wed & Sun, Karaoke Thu, Ladies Night
FROSTPROOF P & J Recreation 33 South Scenic Hwy (863) 635-9825 Home of Famous Slaw Burger! Full Liquor
FT. MEADE Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732
Amos Tavern 200 US Highway 17 92 N (863) 422-1459
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Karaoke, Darts, Billiards Live Bands Happy Hour 12-7p Shady Cove Bar & Grill 7140 State Road 544 E. (863) 421-6800 Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 4-7p Open Daily 12p Daily AUCE Food Specials Daily Drink Specials Live Music Sunset Tavern & Package 1030 Marion Lk Rd W (863) 695-8650 Mon & Fri, Karaoke 6p Tue, Hpy Hr All Day! Sat, DJ Stoner 2p Sun, Live Music 2p
LAKE ALFRED LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F
LAKELAND Beef ‘O’ Brady’s North 1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs
— Continued Page 15 FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
TID BITS TRACEY’S
By Tracey Greene
DUKE
Duke is a tan male Black Mouth Cur mix. He is approximately 4 years old. He is a little shy but such a sweet boy. Duke is hyper so he'll need lots of room to run around. He is good with certain cats and dogs and has been around children of all ages. He knows how to sit and is great in the bath! Duke is a little weary with new people coming into his house.
Living In A Bad Movie It’s hard to believe that within a few short weeks a bustling community enjoying outdoors with friends, attending annual events – with hundreds, even thousands in attendance and anticipating participating in others only a short time in the future, has come to an almost complete stop. Who would have ever thought that the country’s greatest sports leagues and sporting events would have been canceled or postponed? The world has begun to seem much smaller as a virus has connected us all like a very scary airborne-virus-kinda movie. That’s how it feels, like we are living in a bad movie! People infecting others, many not knowing they have the virus or even feeling ill, continuing about their daily lives not social distancing themselves from others. Some have mild symptoms while others are dead within a few days. Life imitating fiction or fiction based in facts? Ever watched the 2011 movie “Contagion”, scary in-deed… Everyone’s daily lives have been affected by COVID-19, and everyone’s futures too as we will feel the effects for some time to come. Businesses have been forced to close, people – that are able – are asked to work from home, but, how long can this last? How long can companies hold on to keep paying employees while not making any money? Each day I receive emails from CEO’s of national retailers giving updates on the status of their companies and their workforce now extending the (temporary) closing of brick and mortar locations. Bottom line: they won’t be able to keep these thousands of people employed while keeping their doors closed and only selling products via online… Our country has been built on the backs of small business, yet our foundation is being crushed by a virus. Our bars closed first to a crushing 30-day mandate and on a VERY popular holiday; St. Patrick’s Day. Then it was 50% occupancy for dining-in at restaurants – staying 6 feet apart. Next, we are rallying around businesses such as the food industry – pushing families to consider using their to-go, delivery and curbside services for mealtimes. Most of the large
food chains chose to close up and wait out this pandemic putting thousands out of jobs. Next small niche food establishments not set up as a to-go model realized that they could not compete with others in the industry that offered better to-go meal values, so they closed up shop, too. Now that our “social-distancing” has been pushed back to April 30th, how many more businesses will close (for good)? How many will not be able to handle this drought of sales? We keep pushing to support, but when so many are working from home, asked to take pay cuts, being furloughed, laid-off and fired - where is all of the money coming from? First, we must secure our own survival before we can help others. We live in a tourism state which heavily depends on the hospitality industry. Our magazine, as an entertainment and dining publication of 16 years, depends on the entertainment, event and hospitality industry. Many employees survive off of tip wages, and many people live paycheck to paycheck. It’s a scary time indeed! What can we do to help? Stay at home unless you need to run errands. Wash your hands, especially after being outside your home. If you have to run errands, sanitize your hands each step of the way for each foreign object you must touch and/or come into contact with. Return home as quickly as possible, wash your hands first thing and clean the doorknobs you touched (both sides) to enter your home. How can we help our community? Depending on your level of disposable income, buy to-go meals from local restaurants and make sure to leave a tip for the staff. Every dollar counts! Buy online gift certificates for local businesses to help keep their cash flow going. Make a list of your top 10 favorite places in your community. These are the folks that you want to help their businesses by buying a gift certificate to; small to large it all helps them continue to be a viable entrepreneur continuing in business during these most uncertain times. And, stop hoarding the toilet paper…
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
CALLIE
Callie is a tortoiseshell female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 11 years old and has been spayed. She warms up pretty quickly to new people and likes to be pet and will follow you around for attention. Callie's favorite things are treats! She will take them right out of your hand. She has been around children and other cats, but not dogs
CASSIE
Cassie is a brown and black female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 11 years old. She has been spayed. Cassie is very shy and tends to hide a lot. Once she has become comfortable with you, she is a sweetie and will roll over for you to pet her. Cassie has been around children but will probably hide from them.
GRACIE
Gracie is a white and tan female Hound mix. She is approximately 10 years old. Her owner could no longer afford to care for her. She is really sweet but a little shy right now as she is new to the shelter. Gracie is potty trained and walks well on a leash.
The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227 Tuesday-Friday 11:30-6pm and Sat 10-4 pm.
Veterinarian of the Month Dr. Patricia Mattson came to Lakeland from Albnany, Georgia, her hometown. She grew up with a strong family background surrounded by hunting dogs and owned her own horse since the age of 10. She originally attended veterinary school with the goal of becoming an equine practitioner but opted for our small animal friends instead. She graduated from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1993. After working for one year in Georgia, Dr. Mattson decided to return to sunny Florida where she worked for various clinics over the past eighteen years. She opened Companion Animal Hospital in 2009 where she strives to have a great facility with a caring and friendly staff.
Dr. Mattson
APRIL 2020 15
16
APRIL 2020
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
SNAPSHOTZ Beef ‘O’ Brady’s South 4810 S FL Ave (863) 646-7757 Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs Brewlands Bar & Billiards N. 5161 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-2038 Smoke-Free Billiards/ Sports Bar 20 Pool Tables, Dart Boards Game Room, Full Kitchen Open Daily, Full Liquor Brewlands Bar & Billiards S. 5733 S FL Ave (863) 646-2600 Pool & Billiard Sports Hall Full Liquor Bar Open Daily Sun & Wed, S.I.N. Night Thu, Ladies Night
Fresco’s Bistro 132 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7 Monthly Pairings Great Bistro Fare Late Menu/Full bar Live Music
EMAIL US YOUR
SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE NEXT ISSUE
Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Daily Specials 2-10p; Mon, Tacos/Tue, Buff. Shrmp Tue/Thu, BOGO Bud/ Bud Light Btls Wed, Boneless Wings Fri, Grouper Sand./Sat, Wings Cob & Pen 1221 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8126 Craft Beer & Wine Full Liquor Bar Food/Light Food
Gator’s Dockside Highland City 5135 S.R. 98 (863) 619-7627 Food, Full Bar Open late night Hookah Palace 122 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 Hrs: Thu-Sat, 4p-2a Thu, Latin Nite w/DJ Fri & Sat, DJ Isle of Capri 541 S Combee Rd (863) 665-6246 Food, Beer/Wine Hpy Hr 3-6p; $1.50 Drft Wed, Ladies Night 7p Pool Tourn, Karaoke Lakeland Loft 108 South Tennessee Ave (863) 210-5327 Full Liquor Jazz & Cigar Lounge Business Casual Sun –Thu Dress to Impress Fri & Sat Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl) 4318 US Hwy 98 N (863) 858-3878 Mon, Poker 7p Wed, Poker 11a 1st Thu, Karaoke Contest 1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands
Duke’s Brewhouse 4960 S Florida Ave (863) 647-9464 Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music
Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer 1853 E. Memorial Blvd (863) 583-9119 Hpy Hr 2-7p Tue, Karaoke Wed, $5 Burgers Fri, Ladies/Latin Night Sun, 50 cent Wings
Even Par Sports Bar Oak Plaza North 5100 US Hwy 98 N (863) 816-7995 Happy Hr 4-6p Daily Sports Packages $12 Buckets
Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri
Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E. Edgewood Dr Suite G (863) 686-6441
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
The Pink Piano 1015 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas Revival Bar 119 S Kentucky Ave (863) 606-6090 Open 12p Daily/Smoke-Free Craft Cocktail Bar Vintage Cocktails, Beers Relaxed Seating Areas Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S. Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor T A Slammers 1011 S. Florida Ave (863) 682-4178 Full Liquor Nightly Specials T-Bows 33 Lounge 4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd (863) 683-1201 Happy Hr 4-6p; $2.75 Wells, $2.25 20oz Drafts Wed-Sat, Karaoke 9p Wally’s Pool Hall 1136 E. Main St (863) 688-4460 Hpy Hr, Mon-Sat 11-7p Mon, 9-Ball Tourn Tue & Thu, APA 8 & 9-Ball Thu, Ladies Nite w/free pool Winner’s Circle 4215 South Florida Ave. (863) 644-9464 Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p
Ybor Cigars & Spirits 5263 S. Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music
LAKE WALES Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 241-3070 Sat, $1 Drafts All Star Grill 2019 Hwy. 60 E (863) 679-9689 Sports Bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak 3100 Canal Rd (863) 439-2031 Seafood, Full Liquor Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p Thu, Fri & Sat, Music 6-10p Gator Mack’s Sports Bar Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Open 7 Days Tue-Sat, 4-10p Food Avail. Full Bar, Music Darts, Pool Tables Outdoor Patio The Good Spot 3825 N. Scenic Hwy (863) 949-4243 Sat, Ladies Night 7p-cl Sun, Karaoke 3p Darts, Pool Table
APRIL 2020 17
SNAPSHOTZ JayBees Rest. & Lounge 8625 Hwy 60 E (863) 696-1901 Full Liquor Lunch & Dinner Open Mon-Sat Y’all Come Back Saloon 3230 State Rd 60 E (863) 676-5759 Taco Tues, $1 Live Music/Pool
RIVER RANCH Westgate River Ranch Saloon 3200 River Ranch Blvd. Restaurant/Saloon General/Western Store (863) 692-1321 ext 40013 Fri, DJ 6p-12a Sat, Live Band 6p-1a
WINTER HAVEN AJ Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 875 5623 Pub, Pool Hall, Karaoke Darts, Full Liquor Apple Lounge 2803 Recker Hwy (863) 291-0340 Happy Hr, Mon-Fri 11-7p Food Avail./Daily Specials Mon, Pool Tourn Poker, Karaoke, Bands Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 West Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Mon-Sat, 4p Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4:30-6:30p Sat, Hpy Hr 5-6:30p Full Menu/Full Bar Smoke-Free Barrel239 239 3rd St SW (863) 229-7740 Whiskey Bar Open Daily Drink Specials 1-4p Smoke-Free
Central Tavern 273 W Central Ave (863) 229-5027 Open Daily 12p Full Bar Smoke-Free Outside Patio Duke’s Brewhouse 1708 6th Street SE (863) 576-9464 Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music Fire Restaurant 325 W. Central Ave (863) 875-5544 Wed, Fire Jass Trio Sun, Brunch Gary’s Grove 2995 Cypress Gardens Rd (863) 325-0001 Mon, Live Music Fri, Karaoke Grape Expectations 535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 318-8800 Wine Bar Smoke-Free Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW (863) 291-0700 Food Truck & Live Music Wed-Fri 4p, Sat-Sun 12p 2nd Wed, Moonlight Mrkt Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free Harborside Restaurant 2435 7th Street SW (863) 293-7070 Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-5:30p Waterfront Dining High Seas Lounge 7000 State Rd 544 (863) 299-2233 Great Food/Drink Specials Live Music Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW (863) 298-6755 Outdoor Patio Thu, Live Music Smoke-Free
Jessie’s Lounge 118 3rd Street SW Beef ‘O’ Brady’s (863) 298-9815 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p (863) 293-9464 Mon, Free Pool Full Liquor Sports Pub Wed, Big Ass Jam Night 30 Big HD TVs Live Music Weekly Smoke-Free Mon Burger Special
18
APRIL 2020
Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767 Happy Hr 12-7 Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue, Fri, Sat - Poker Pool Tables, Darts & Golden Tee Old Man Frank’s 1005 S. Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179 Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p Daily Specials, Oyster Bar Fiesta Wed w/$1Tacos Thu Specials at Oyster Bar Sun, Live Music Apr 18, Boat Regatta Past Time Lounge 1605 1st St S (863) 293-0027 Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table Slate 8 Family Billiards 20 4th Street NW (863) 247-8899 Smoke Free Pool Hall Open Daily, Outdoor Patio Full Bar, Food Available Wed - Dart Tourn 7p FB@Slate8Pool Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524 Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily Beer Specials/Sports Packages Lunch Specials Mon-Fri Tanner’s Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 662-5948 Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Wed, 1/2 Price Wines Sun, Fam Jam 12-6p/Music 2p 2nd Sun. Brunch 11:30-2p Union Taproom 245 W Central Ave, ST 102 (863) 268-4921 Open Tue-Thu 3-10p, Fri & Sat 12-11p, Sun 12-7p 40 Self Pour Taps; Craft Brews, Ciders, Wine, Cold Brew Coffee, And Kombucha Winter Haven’s Bar Off The Chain 1560 Havendale Blvd NW (863) 299-5515 Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4-7p Mon, Free Pool 6-8p Wed, Karaoke 6p Fri, Bike Night 6-8p Fri & Sat, Bands 8p
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
APRIL 2020 19
POLK COUNTY’S
RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT DUE TO COVID-19, ALL RESTAURANTS ARE TO-GO, DELIVERY OR CURBSIDE SERVICES ONLY! PLEASE CONTACT RESTAURANTS FOR DETAILS.
AUBURNDALE TANTRUMS LAKESIDE GRILL
This is a one of a kind, waterfront, casual dining experience where you can enjoy well-prepared food, water sports in action and a beautiful sunset on our multi-level covered deck overlooking Lake Myrtle in Auburndale. Delicious Seafood and more . . . featuring Oyster and Shrimp Po'Boys.We also have a large selection of Hand-dipped Ice cream, beer, wine and specialty beverages. Hours - Open Everyday at 11:00 am Must try: Gator Bites, Oyster Nachos, and Shrimp & Grit Cakes 330 Denton Avenue, Auburndale 863-875-3974
HAINES CITY BALMORAL BAR & GRILL AT BALMORAL RESORT
BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH LAKELAND
Great Food! Great Sports! Great Family Fun! 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Game Plan Saturdays. 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Coldest Beer In Town. Kids Eat Free Tuesdays & Sundays 4-8 pm. Now Featuring A Full Liquor Bar. Must Try: Our Delicious Fajitas and Awesome Burgers 4810 South Florida Ave (863) 646-7757 www.beefobradys.com
CHAMPS SPORTS BAR
Serving Polk County for over 20 years! Cold Beer • Great Food • Family Fun • Best Wings in Town Independently delicious! Daily specials from 2-10 pm: Monday 60¢Tacos, Tuesday $5 Buffalo Shrimp, Wednesday 45¢ Boneless Wings, Tuesday & Thursday BOGO Bud & Bud Light Bottles, Friday, $9 Grouper Sandwich (All Day), Saturday 75¢ Wings (All Day).Hours: Mon.-Thurs, Sat. & Sun. 11 am to 10 pm. Fri. 11 am to midnight. Follow us on Facebook. FB@ChampsGrill 6645 S. Florida Ave. 863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com
Offering a casual dining environment complete with poolside outdoor seating, the Balmoral Bar & Grill serves up poolside lunches, afternoon drinks and evening meals. Popular among resort guests and locals alike, our poolside bar in Haines City offers a full bar with TVs and features a menu of shareable appetizers, fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, and more. Live music also offered on the patio most Saturday nights. Check our Facebook for schedule. Bar & Grill is open to the public and is located within Balmoral Resort Florida in Haines City, minutes from Winter Haven and Davenport. Must Try: Flatbreads and Club Sandwich. 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City (off Hwy 27)
MISTER FISH
(863) 588-3097 • BalmoralBarandGrill.com
Land mark eatery in Lake Wales. Fresh fish never frozen. Fun and casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner menu with daily specials. Mon. 4pm to 9pm. Tues. - Saturday 11:30am to 9pm. Closed Sun. Must Try: Shrimp or Fresh Grouper 802 Henry St., Lake Wales (863) 676-6361
LAKELAND BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S NORTH LAKELAND
Lakeland’s Best Family Sports Pub. 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Gameplan Saturdays. Happy Hour 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Bingo Mondays from 5-6 pm. Kids Eat Free Wednesday from 4-8 pm. Trivia Night on Thursdays from 8-10 pm. Must Try: Hot & Fresh Fajitas - Everyday! Chicken wings! 1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 www.beefobradys.com
20
APRIL 2020
WINTER HAVEN 326 BISTRO PIZZERIA
Bistro Pizzeria shares the art of perfectly rendered simplicity. Wood burning oven, pizza by the slice, made to order specialty pizzas. Lunch & dinner menu. Warm & casual dining atmosphere. Must Try: Classic Pizza Napoli 326 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven 863-875-4894 www.arabellas.us/bistro
APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL
#1 Happy Hour Monday-Friday 11am-7pm. $1 Taco Tuesdays! Wings, Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads, Fried Pickles, Chicken Fingers, Nachos and much more! Open Mic Night every Tuesday. Winner of the people’s choice Wing Fling 2011 Wing Champs! Come try em’ yourself. Must Try: Famous Wings 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven 863-291-0340
Family owned and operated since 1968 offering the best fish sandwich around! Seafood, chicken and much more using only the best quality food and excellent service! Easily the best homemade food you’ll try! Hours Monday through Saturday 11am to 7pm and closed Sundays. Must Try: Famous Fish Sandwich 715 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-4280
ARABELLA’S
LAKE WALES
We offer the best Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, created from the freshest ingredients. Enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner in our chic Ave Bar. At Arabellas, our dedicated service and inviting ambiance makes us the premier choice for your lunch or dinner destination. Must Try: Bananas Foster prepared table side 346 W. Central Ave. Winter Haven 863-293-1797 • www.arabellas.us
CRAZY FISH
BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S
JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
We take pride in our welcoming environment, friendly service and famous burgers. Come in and check our daily lunch and dinner specials. Weekend specials. Prime rib, frog legs, fried shrimp and catfish. Must Try: Homemade Pies 8675 Hwy 60 East, Lake Wales 863-696-1901, Find us on Facebook
Locally owned sports pub with 30 TVs and full bar. Lunch value combos Mondays-Fridays until 3pm. Award winning jumbo wings with famous sauces and dry rubs. Fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, tacos and dinner entrees available. Weekday Values: Mon. Burgers, Tues. Tacos, Wed. Wings, Thurs. Fajitas, Fri. Surf & Turf. See ya at Beefs! Must Try: Award Winning Wings and Burgers 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 293-9464 • www.beefobradys.com
HARRY’S OLD PLACE
includes shrimp, scallops, mussels, oysters, crab legs, "fish of the day" board, steaks, chicken, pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups/chowders. Restaurant is located on the shores of Lake Ned in beautiful Winter Haven with a quaint pet friendly outdoor patio. Full bar available. Less than a mile from LEGOLAND. Kid's menu also available. Must Try: Grouper in a Bag, the Broiled Seafood Combo and award winning Key Lime Pie! 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd., Winter Haven 863-324-0301 www.harrysoldplace.com
RICK'S BAR-B-Q
Featuring delicious barbecue the entire family can enjoy! Serving up great food in downtown since 2011. Our barbecue is hand rubbed with dry seasonings, smoked over hickory wood and cooked all night. Our pulled pork and savory “fall off the bone” style ribs have proven to be favorites for our customers. Eat in, take out or have us cater your next event. On-site banquet room available for private parties; seats up to 60. Tues & Wed 11-3 pm, Thurs to Sat 11-8 pm. Must Try: Brisket! But only on Fridays...while it lasts! And ribs, of course! 204 6th St SW • 863-299-0354 FB@lickthebone • www.ricksbarbq.com
SOMEWHERE SPORTS BAR
Enjoy great food, great games and great times in a family-friendly atmosphere. As your sports headquarters, ESPN, NFL & MLB ticket available on 14 flat screen TV’s. Daily lunch specials Mon-Fri from 11-2 pm only $5.99. Open 7 days a week. Appetizers, Sandwiches, Wraps, Salads, Burgers, Pizza & Wings. Full liquor with Happy Hour Mon-Sat from 3-6 pm. Must Try: Jumbo Wings & Pizza 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524
THE TWISTED PROP BAR & GRILLE
Winter Haven's newest casual bar & grill nestled on Lake May. Enjoy burgers, wings, wraps, sandwiches and cold beer in a picturesque setting on the Chain of Lakes. Happy hour on beer & wine is Monday to Friday from 2-7 pm. Indoor dining, Patio dining, Outdoor dining and Pet Friendly. Boat dock with multiple slips available. Stop in by car or by boat to enjoy! Hours: Mon-Thurs, 11-9 pm. Fri & Sat, 11-10 pm. Sun 12-8 pm. Facebook for more info. Must Try: Chicken Wings & Burgers 615 7th ST SW (863) 293-1937
Serving up a large selection of fresh fish for over 27 years! Where the fish is always de-lish! Open for lunch and dinner. Great seafood menu also
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
APRIL 2020 21
BRAINEXCERCISE Sudoku Puzzle STRANGE BUT TRUE BY SAMANTHA WEAVER • In 1883, Bill Kinsman of Tombstone, Arizona, was the subject of a practical joke when the Tombstone Epitaph announced his intention to marry one May Woodman. The surprised future groom countered with a notice of his own that he had no such plans whatsoever -- and was soon after shot to death by the deeply humiliated Ms. Woodman. • “Cenosillicaphobia” is the fear of an empty beer glass. (Use this one to impress your friends during Happy Hour.) • Turning back the giant hands on Big Ben’s four clock faces takes an astonishing total of five hours. • Alexandre Dumas, best known for “The Three Musketeers” and “The Count of Monte Cristo,” felt very strongly that all his works must be presented on colored paper. He wanted all his fiction presented on blue paper, his articles on pink paper and his poetry on yellow paper. • Golf balls were originally made from dried cow eyeballs. • The tea bag was an accidental invention. In 1908, tea merchant Thomas Sullivan distributed his samples in small silken sacks. His customers, not realizing they were samples, dunked them in hot water, and Sullivan soon found himself swamped with orders for his “tea bags”! • In his travels, Marco Polo believed at one point that he had stumbled across unicorns, writing that “They are very ugly brutes to look at. They are not at all such as we describe unicorns.” Not surprising, considering that he was actually viewing rhinoceroses.
TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez
1. COMICS: In which comic-book series was the character of Wendy the Good Little Witch introduced? 2. GEOGRAPHY: Which is the flattest U.S. state? 3. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president installed the first telephone in the White House? 4. LITERATURE: Which attorney was introduced in the novel “The Case of the Velvet Claws”? 5. HISTORY: Who opened the first birth control clinic in the United States in 1916? 6. SCIENCE: Which element is graphite made entirely of? 7. MOVIES: Which movie featured the famous line, “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse”? 8. MUSIC: Which two country stars released a 1978 song called “You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly”? 9. TELEVISION: What was the name of the inn on the “Newhart” comedy series? 10. MEASUREMENTS: Ten inches of snow generally equal how many inches of rain? ANSWERS 1. “Casper the Friendly Ghost” 2. Florida 3. Rutherford B. Hayes 4. Perry Mason 5. Margaret Sanger 6. Carbon 7. “The Godfather,” Vito Corleone 8. Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty 9. The Stratford Inn 10. 1 inch
• Ancient Romans created black hair dye by fermenting leeches in vinegar.
ANSWERS
• The game of marbles is estimated to be about 5,000 years old. Through most of their history, the toys were made of stone, bone, clay or whatever material was available, with truly round marbles being both rare and expensive.
22
APRIL 2020
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
ONOMATOPOEIA on·o·mato·poe·ia: The naming of a thing or action by a vocal imitation of the sound associated with it (as buzz, hiss).
By Erica Smith
Weathering The Storm For my part, I desire to see the time when education - and by its means, morality, sobriety, enterprise and industry - shall become much more general than at present, and should be gratified to have it in my power to contribute something to the advancement of any measure which might have a tendency to accelerate the happy period. Be sure you put your feet in the right place and stand firm. I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts. A house divided against itself cannot stand. — Abraham Lincoln I almost did not have the words to complete my column this month. In less than a month, we have witnessed our nation come to a screeching and terrifying halt. Words like quarantine and isolating that were once used to describe video game scenarios are now part of everyday conversation. The new normal is certainly not normal. If you are a fan of the movie “The Way We Were,” you may already know the title of the fictional great American novel penned by Hubbell Gardner’s
character. Entitled “A Country Made of Ice Cream,” the first line reads, “in a way he was like the country he lived in; everything came too easily to him.” Though entirely fictional, this the perfect depiction of our current state, and we are simply melting. This is not the first time we have weathered the storm. President Abraham Lincoln led our nation through one of the most challenging periods by using both his intellect and his heart. We need to take a page from “his greatness and goodness,” and be better leaders through respect and sacrifice. What we are fighting is an invisible enemy. This virus does not recognize party affiliation and we should not be making decisions based on political gains. Now is the time for hard facts and less infighting. We cannot be a “Country Made of Ice Cream” and we cannot stand divided. This crisis depends on us to be good citizens who are willing to make sacrifices now for the greater good later. Support your local business when you can, stay home as much as possible and be ready to do right when our new normal is, well normal.
FOLLOW US FOR UPDATES www.TodayAndTonight.com or Facebook.com/TodayAndTonightMagazine EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
APRIL 2020 23
special moment perfect location. YOUR
DESERVES THE
WEDDINGS AT BOK TOWER GARDENS
The sun streams through a canopy of trees to illuminate lush plants and delicate blooms. The gentle sound of the wind carries the songs of many birds as the enchanting sounds of 60 carillon bells resonate throughout the gardens. For a wedding experience as amazing as the location, plan your once-in-a-lifetime event at Bok Tower Gardens and experience your perfect wedding day and reception in a truly natural setting, making memories that last forever.
24
APRIL 2020
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG
