Today & Tonight Magazine January 2023

The Best Finger-licking Barbecue is Back!

by James Coulter

Located in the heart of Central Florida, Polk County has a proud tradition of preparing barbecue. Whether you prefer smoked ribs and chicken, smoked sausage and pulled pork or juicy brisket, the county serves up some of the best old-fashioned finger-licking barbecue - especially this time of year. So, if you’re looking to indulge in some of the BEST barbecue around, also hosting some of the best entertainment, then drop on by some of these upcoming events:

Smoke on the Water

Fri., Feb. 3 @ 5 PM - 10 PM Sat., Feb. 4 @ 10:30 AM - 5 PM

George Jenkins Memorial Unit, 2400 Havendale Blvd. NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881 https://www.bgcpolk.org/SOTW

For almost two decades, Smoke on the Water has provided a family-friendly event to help raise funds for a great cause that assists the children of local families. Hosted at the George Jenkins Unit in Winter Haven, the event serves as the largest fundraiser for

the Boys and Girls Club of Polk County.

The main event, of course, is the KCBSsanctioned barbecue competition, with more than 50 teams arriving from across the country to compete for the prize for best professional or backyard barbecue in categories like best chicken, ribs, pork, and brisket.

Other festivities that day include live music performed by local bands and artists, a children’s play area with bounce houses, and a ski show hosted by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Citrus

Center Boys and Girls Club. The facility offers local children a safe environment to stay in after school to receive tutoring, fun activities, and even free meals.

Marica Smith, a board member, has been with the organization for the past 19 years and has been involved with its annual fundraiser since its inception. She has seen attendance grow from 5,000 to 50,000. She owes this growth to the overall community support.

“I love being involved with the community and helping the Boys and Girls Club raise funds to help so many children give them a safe place after school,” Smith said. “ It is exciting to try barbecue, to help support the Boys and Girls Club, [and] to watch the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show. It’s just an overall fun day.”

Kevin Ward, Event Chair, started with the event its second year and has been with it ever since. During that time, he has seen it grow exponentially. Not only do they raise a lot of funds (having generated more than a million dollars during its entire run), but the number of teams that participate has increased so much that some had to be turned away, he claimed.

He owes their success to the support from both the public and volunteers. He loves the overall camaraderie, as it allows everyone to participate and have a good time with great barbecue.

“It has been cool to watch it grow,” he said. “We reached a point where could not let any more teams come in, because our venue was just not big enough to handle as many teams as they wanted to come.”

Southern Sunshine BBQ and Music Fest

Fri., Jan. 13 @ 4 PM - 10 PM Sat., Jan. 14 @ 11 AM - 10 PM Lake Wailes Park, Lake Wales, FL https://www.ktsunshinefoundation.com/

What goes better with good old-fashioned Southern barbecue than good old-fashioned Southern music? Whether you like your smoking hot tunes with your smoking hot barbecue or vice versa, the Southern Sunshine BBQ and Music Fest is the best place to appreciate the American South.

This two-day event offers fun for the whole family along the scenic shores of Lake Wailes with live musical performances, a KCBS-sanctioned barbecue competition, dozens of vendors, and plenty of opportunities to win big through raffles and 50/50 drawings.

More than 42 teams attended the competition, and many more are expected to come out to serve up their best barbecue, be it backyard or professional, be it ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.

The event serves as the fundraiser for the KT Sunshine Foundation, a local non-profit organization whose mission, according to their website, is "to help families in need that are going through a tragic event."

The foundation was started following the tragic passing of Kaity, the daughter of Jinny Castle, Event Coordinator and Director. Jinny has since taken the initiative of preserving her daughter's memory by helping other people who have suffered similar tragedies.

Their first BBQ & Music Fest in 2020 was a "huge success", and every other event since then has been equally as successful and popular. Whether they come for the music or food, attendees have a lot of fun that supports a good cause.

"The KT Sunshine Foundation helps families that have had tragedies like our own. We provide scholarships to seniors graduating from high school. We also support veterans and first responders," Castle said. "There is not a lot of things locally like this that we can do, so people can come to us and we can try to help them with their tragedy."

Blues, Brews & BBQ

Sat., Jan, 14 @ 11 AM - 6 PM

Front Page Brewing Company, 190 S. Florida Ave., Bartow, FL 33830

https://mainstreetbartowfl.com

Every major city in Polk County has at least one annual barbecue competition. Now, Bartow will be hosting its inaugural barbecue event with Blues, Brews & BBQ.

Hosted by Main Street Bartow, the event will be held in cooperation with Front Page Brewing, a local craft brewery that serves self-pour wine and mead,

beer-infused beef jerky, and other drinks and specialties.

Because what goes better with barbecue than beer? Five trucks will be parked along the street near the brewery, which will be open to help attendees wash down barbecue with craft beer. Participating trucks will be the Cultivated Pig, Legacy Craft Barbecue, Bad Dog Barbecue, Uncle Bucky's Barbecue, and PJ's Barbecue. These trucks will be serving attendees as well as competing in the best ribs competition.

And, of course, what else goes better with Southern cooking than Southern

music? Live musical performances will accentuate the lively atmosphere with bluegrass, country, and even clogging.

Linda Holcomb, Executive Director of Main Street Bartow, wanted to bring home a barbecue event for Bartow. Her organization hosts various events to help draw visitors and residents to Downtown Bartow, and she hopes this new barbecue venue will become successful and popular enough to become an annual tradition, she said.

"I am hoping it will be so well received and popular that it is an annual event that keeps going every year," she said. "We are

always looking to bring fun new events downtown. That was something we had people mention [they wanted]. So we thought we would start one because we have the brewery here [and] it would be good to partner with them. This would be pretty good to do it because it is bringing things downtown."

Lakeland Pigfest

Fri., Jan. 27 @ 5 PM – 10 PM

Sat., Jan. 28 @ 10 AM – 5 PM

Sun n Fun, Lakeland, FL 33811 https://lakelandpigfest.org/

For 26 years and counting, Lakeland Pigfest has been a great place to enjoy KCBS-sanctioned barbecue and other food served from across the country.

"It is a good family fun event...our opportunity to experience and taste world-class barbecue from all over the country and the best of the best from the local fair," said event chair Donavon Tinsley.

Since moving to its current venue at the Sun n’ Fun Campus five years ago, Lakeland Pigfest has grown exponentially with more teams and attendees. And since extending their duration to two days, they have also experienced twice the turnout, with adult crowds on Friday and families on Saturday.

More than simply a great event to enjoy barbecue, music, and good company, Pigfest is also an opportune opportunity to fund proceeds for good causes. One of their mission statements is to, "raise money for local charitable

organizations," as the event has, in the past, "contributed nearly $500,000 to local charities."

Their success over the past quarter century, both in turnout and fundraising, has been twofold: a generous public who has supported the event since its inception, and equally generous sponsors like Publix Supermarket that have helped Pigfest contribute to the local community.

"Not to mention the simple love of the sport of BBQ," said Tinsley. "To these ladies and gentlemen who come from all over the country on our pro-division side, and also [to] those who convene in our backyard barbecue portion of our contest, [they] enjoy putting their labor of love with barbecue."

Ribs on the Ridge Brews & BBQ

Sat., Feb. 18 @ 10 AM – 9 PM

Lake Eva Park, Haines City, FL 33844 https://hainescity.com

Ribs on the Ridge Brews & BBQ has been selected as the 2023 Florida BBQ Association (FBA) State Championship! Sanctioned through the Florida BBQ Association, this event will bring professional and backyard BBQ competition teams from across Florida and the southeast to compete for cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights for the best BBQ in town.

Enjoy live music, entertainment, vendors, a beer garden, and great BBQ!

• A Cornish milkman named Steve Leech was making his rounds when he saw a shop on fire. Using 320 pints of milk, he not only extinguished the flames, but saved seven other stores in the process, earning a “Hero Milkman of the Millennium” award from the National Dairymen’s Association.

•An albatross typically spends the first six years of its life flying over the ocean without ever setting foot on the ground.

• In the 1990s, a mysterious soda vending machine dispensing rare and discontinued drinks appeared in Seattle. No one knew who filled it, but sadly, in 2018, it vanished as suddenly as it came, with an explanatory note saying it “went for a walk.”

• The first women’s boots were designed for and worn by Queen Victoria.

• “Ergophobia” is the fear of work or the workplace. Psychologists attribute the condition to a combination of concerns about failing at tasks, public speaking and social anxiety.

* A 59-year-old man with no previous criminal record held up a bank for the measly sum of just $1. So what was he actually after? A prison sentence, so he could get free health care.

• Red is the first color a baby sees.

• If diamonds really are a gal’s best friend, she might like to pay a visit to the planet known as 55 Cancri e, which is believed to be principally covered in graphite and diamond. Of course, she would also need to bring enough rocks back home to cover the cost of the $12 million spaceship she’d need to get there.

The Year Sucks (and That's OK)

Last year, I resolved to keep my monthly column positive. So, for the past 12 months, rather than using it as a soapbox to complain about bad news, I instead used “What’s Rustling Jimmy’s Jimmies” to praise positive developments and discuss policies that could make America, if not the world, a better place to live.

My reason for this resolution was twofold. First, I wanted to keep myself sane in an otherwise insane world and positive in a time of overwhelming negativity. And, second, I wanted to prove that political punditry need not be mere muckraking, that op-eds like this can be used to bring readers together to discuss solutions rather than tear them apart arguing over the problems.

the minor incidents here and there: book bans at schools and libraries, armed vigilantes threatening drag queens and shooting up nightclubs, inflation driving prices for basic necessities up the wazoo, protesters tossing soup on priceless paintings, cops keeling over nearly dead over fentanyl, roving gangs of shoplifters purloining shops in broad daylight— all of it happening in rapid succession!

1. HISTORY: What is the name of the ancient trade route that connected the East and West?

2. LITERATURE: What was playwright Anton Chekhov’s other profession?

3. TELEVISION: Who are the next-door neighbors in TV’s sitcom “Laverne & Shirley”?

4. GEOGRAPHY: Which continent has the most countries?

5. MUSIC: What does the shortened term K-pop stand for?

6. FOOD & DRINK: What is another name for a kiwi? 7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: From which Roman god did the month of January get its name?

8. MEDICAL TERMS: If you suffer from medial tibial stress syndrome, what is the condition commonly called? 9. PSYCHOLOGY: What irrational fear is represented in the condition called ablutophobia?

10. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a baby turkey called?

ANSWERS 1. The Silk Road. 2. Physician. 3. Lenny and Squiggy. 4. Africa. 5. Korean popular music. 6. Chinese gooseberry. 7. Janus, the god of beginnings and endings. 8. Shin splints. 9. Fear of bathing. 10. A poult.

Well, I succeeded! This is the first time I’ve ever kept a resolution through the entire year. Each of my twelve columns was nothing but positive. Granted, the overall process was rough. Many times, I wanted to break my vow and complain about the latest problem in the news. But I kept to my word and kept positive all year long.

And, well, now the old year is over, and a new year has begun. I no longer need to keep my resolution. Now I can be as negative as I want to be. And— oh boy! — have I held in a lot of negativities this year. I need to let it all out in one outburst.

*inhale*

AAARRRGGGHHH!

Good grief was 2022 a nightmare! Granted, it wasn’t as bad as previous years, between 2020 unleashing a new Black Death and 2021 instigating a failed political coup. No, 2022 did not bring about one single major catastrophe, but rather, unfolded a series of smaller, but no less bad, nuisances—a “death by a thousand cuts”, if you will.

By far, the biggest threat was the war between Russia and Ukraine that very well risks ushering in World War III. But the worst offenders were

And then there were the idiots. Egad, the idiots! So many idiots! The idiot billionaire who bought Twitter and made it worse than it already was. The rapper idiot who went full neo-Nazi by preaching death to the Jews and praising Hitler. The idiot pundits on television and social media spreading hate about minorities and inspiring armed nutcases to shoot up schools and nightclubs and story-telling hours. And who could be worse than the idiot governor who thought it was a good idea to go to war against Disney World? (How about the idiot voters who thought he was doing a good job with that and voted him in for another term!)

And that’s not considering all of the ongoing crises, from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, accelerating climate change, the growing spread of nationalism, and— oh yeah! —COVID-19 is still a thing that’s killing people!

Look, it’s great I was able to remain positive this year. But sometimes we need to get negative. We need to complain about the bad things. Pretending they don’t exist won’t make them go away. The first step in solving a problem is admitting there is a problem. So go ahead! Get mad and complain. Sometimes, the only way to solve a problem is complain about it.

The views and opinions expressed in columns are not necessarily the views and opinions of Today & Tonight Magazine or Today & Tonight, Inc.

C A L E N D A R

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Events will be included as space allows.

Arts, Crafts, Festivals & Expos

ticket package from LDDA. Tues, 4:30-9 pm. Cost - $25 for 10 tastes. https://ldda.square. site/product/tasty-tuesday-tickets/31?cs=true&cst=custom

JAN 19&

20 – Foot the Chain

Located in Exhibit Hall East and George Jenkins Arena at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 10-6 pm. Sun, 10-4 pm. CentralFloridaComicCon.com and RPFundingCenter.com

specials, tastings, giveaways, live music. Register by 1 pm, Contest starts at 2 pm. Located at Old Man Frank’s, 1005 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven 33880.

FEB 3– February

JAN 12–

Lakeland Food Truck Rally. Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally brings food trucks to Munn Park on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Come on out to Downtown Lakeland and enjoy a variety of Florida food trucks and their delicious cuisine. 20 plus food trucks come together each month and park on the streets surrounding beautiful Munn Park. Thurs, 6-9 pm. (next events: Feb 9, Mar 9)

Waterski & Music Festival. Barefoot Shootout Skier Registration starts Friday at 6 pm. Music by 1969 Band. Saturday Barefoot Shootout; Skier Heat 1 at 7:30 am and Heat 2 at 7:45 am. Waterski & Music Festival from 12-10 pm. Waterski Exhibitions at 1:30 & 4 pm. Flyboard Light Show & Fireworks at 7:20 pm. Located at Tanners Lakeside in Winter Haven. Check Facebook for details.

JAN 20&

JAN 27&

28 – 26th Annual Lakeland PigFest. Over 150 competition barbecue teams for a weekend of good eatin’, good friends, and good tunes to benefit Lakeland-area charities. Located at Sun ‘n Fun Campus in Lakeland. Fri, 5-10 pm and Sat, 10-5 pm. Admission $5; youth 12 years and under are FREE. Free parking. LakelandPigFest.org

First Friday. Head to Downtown Lakeland on the first Friday of every month for First Friday; new theme each month. This month is Mardi Gras in Munn Park. Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Enjoy goodies, giveaways, and discounts from local business exhibitors. Shop in the Makers Market, which features local artists and creators, and check out the Classy Car Show on Main St. First Friday is a family-friendly event held in the streets of Downtown Lakeland between Lemon Street and Oak Street along Kentucky Ave. and Main St. Downtown Lakeland, Fri 6-9 pm. DowntownLKLD. com

FEB 3&

14& 15 –USA Gun Show Florida. Located in Sikes Hall West at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 8:305:30 pm. Sun, 8:30-4 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

JAN

21 –Swan City Jazz Festival. Enjoy an evening of jazz music at Munn Park. The event benefits TheBlendedFamilyFoundation. com. Fri headliner: Paula Atherton. Sat headliner: Jazmin Ghent. Located downtown Lakeland at Munn Park. Free Event. Fri & Sat, 3-9 pm. www. swancityjazzfestival.com

JAN 17– Tasty

Tuesday.

Third Tuesday of every month. 10 tastes from downtown bars, restaurants, and sweet shops. New offerings every month. Tasty Tuesdays are a super fun way to experience multiple Downtown restaurants all in one night! You get hearty sample sizes with each ticket and move from place to place at your own pace! Tastings begin at 4:30pm and end at 9pm. Purchase your

JAN 21&

22 –Lakeland Gun Show. Presented by Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Center. 54 years of shows. Hundreds of tables. Best show in Florida. Buy, Sell, Trade. Concealed weapons classes available. Free parking. Located Sun ‘n Fun Expo Campus, 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland. Sat, 9-5 pm and Sun, 9-3 pm. Lakelandgunclub. com

JAN

21& 22 –Central Florida Comic Con. Comics, Toys, TV, Film, Art, Cosplay, Games and all things Nerdy!

JAN

27to 29 – 45th Annual Gator Cutlery Club. Custom, Modern and Antique Show. Auction Saturday Night at 7 pm. Located in Exhibit Hall at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 10-5 pm. Sat & Sun, 9-5 pm. $5 – 1 day pass, $8 – 2 day pass, $10 – 3 day pass. GatorCutlery. com and RPFundingCenter.com

JAN

27to FEB 5 – 27th Annual Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow and Native American Festival. The event features crafts, intertribal dance competitions, historic village displays, workshops and over 60 exhibitors. The event is held in the Big Top circus tent over two big weekends - rain or shine. Located at the International Market World Flea and Farmers Market in Auburndale. Fri-Sun, 10-6 pm. Adults $5, Seniors 55 and up $4, Youth 12 and up $3, Youth under 12 are free. Weekend Pass $12 (3 days). http://www.spiritofthebuffalopowwow.com

4 – 19th Annual Smoke on the Water BBQ Competition. More than 50 teams from across the country will compete. Enjoy great BBQ plus unique entertainment including a music festival, an aerial flyover, fireworks (Friday night), ski show, and awards for the best chicken, ribs, pork, and brisket. Benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County. Located 2400 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven. Fri night is $20 admission; 5-10 pm. Sat, $2 admission w/Youth 10 and under Free; 10:30-5 pm. www. bgcpolk.org/SOTW

FEB 4– Spring Wine

Walk at Bok.

JAN 28

– OMF’s Customer Appreciation Party & Oyster Eating Contest. Enjoy drink

Sip, sample and stroll through the Gardens while sampling 12 wines from exciting Old World destinations including France, Italy, Germany, and Spain. Ticket includes wine samples, nibbles at each stop and a souvenir tasting cup. Located at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Sat, 2-5 pm; live music on the Terrace 5-7 pm. Cost$40 Members and $55 for NonMembers. boktowergardens.org/ event/spring-wine-walk/

FEB 11–

Valentine Night

Market. An evening under the stars for Downtown shopping, dining and live music. Great for date night, girls’ night or family night out! Downtown retail shops will be open late, and Kentucky Ave will be filled with food, artisan vendors, crafters, live music and more! Find great gifts for your Valentines. Plus, enjoy adult beverages and a roaming cupid for Valentine selfies! Downtown Lakeland, Sat 4-9 pm. DowntownLKLD.com

Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows

Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market – Saturdays. We have an exceptional variety of local vendors who offer fresh produce, seafood, pastries, breads, desserts, local honey, artisans, and crafts, to name a few. We are part of the FAB (Fresh Access Bucks) program that assists those in the SNAP/ EBT program by encouraging healthy behaviors by making fresh, local produce more affordable and accessible to SNAP customers. Stop by the Market Information Booth for more details! Located N. Kentucky Ave, Lakeland. Sat, 8 am-1 pm.

Winter Haven Farmers Market – Saturdays. Shop locally grown food, artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. Located across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven. Sat 9 am-1 pm.

JAN 8- Second Sunday

Artisan Market. Every second Sunday of the month, enjoy a variety of Florida based businesses selling a variety of handmade items. Located Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center, Lakeland, Sun, 12-5 pm. www. shoplakesidevillage.net

JAN 19- Lake Wales

produce, artisan food vendors, plants, a pinch of crafts and a mind-blowing food truck. This market is within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Located Stuart Avenue in the parking lot near downtown’s new Gillian Fazio mural in Lk Wales. Thurs, 4-7 pm.

Concerts & Theatre

pm (doors at 6:30 pm). Cost - $66, $75, $86 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

3rd

Thursday Market. The boutique market will feature a variety of

JAN 24–

The Fab Four The Ultimate Tribute. If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute ever, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four, the ultimate tribute. With uncanny, note-fornote live renditions of Beatles classics such as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day in the Life,” “Twist and Shout,” “Here Comes the Sun,” and “Hey Jude,” the Fab Four will transport you back in time to the high point of the British Invasion and beyond, complete with costume changes to represent every era of this dynamic band’s illustrious career. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Tues, 7:30 pm (doors at 6:30 pm). Cost$31, $44.50, $50.50, $75 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 26– Chris D’Elia.

Comedian Chris D’Elia has become one of the most-in-demand performers in comedy. His highly successful podcast Congratulations With Chris D’Elia has been a mainstay on iTunes’ comedy podcast charts since its debut in February 2017. He is also a co-star on The King And The Sting And The Wing with Brendan Schuab. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm). Cost - $49.50, $60.50, $71.50, $115, $135, $175 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 13–

Fiddler On The Roof. Tony®-winning director Bartlett Sher brings his fresh take on a beloved masterpiece to life. A wonderful cast and a lavish orchestra tell this heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and the timeless traditions that define faith and family. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Mon, 7:30

24 –Spring Concert Under The Stars at Bok. Join us live on the Oval Lawn this March and April and experience four amazing concerts from top award-winning Americana artists: Mar 3 Alison Brown, Mar 24 Steep Canyon Rangers, Apr 21 The SteelDrivers, and Apr 28 Travelin’ McCourys. Concerts begin at 7 pm. boktowergardens.org/event/concert-under-the-stars-alison-brown/

MAR 3&

JAN 11– Lakeland Magic vs Westchester Knicks. Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Wed, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm) RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 13– Lakeland Magic vs Greensboro Swarm. Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm) RPFundingCenter.com

Charity Events & Golf Tournaments

JAN 27–

12th Annual Shooter Showdown Sporting Clays Open. Hosted by Winter Haven Hospital Foundation. Check-in 11:30 am, Lunch 12 pm, Shooting 1 pm, Awards/ Reception 3:30 pm. Located Polk Sporting Clays, 5000 Firetower Rd, Haines City. Fri, 11:30-5 pm. To reserve a team or for sponsorship info: whhfoundation@baycare.org or (863) 292-4138. WHHFoundation.org

FEB 4–

18th Annual VisteBall. Annual fundraiser for VISTE (Volunteers In Service To The Elderly). Indoor golf blowout where you can chip, putt, and play your way to great prizes! It’s a fun time for the pro, the hacker, or the person who has never held a club a day in their life! You’ll have a blast, and all proceeds will benefit Volunteers in Service to the Elderly. Located Sun ‘n Fun Campus, Lakeland. Sat, 6-9:30 pm. Ticket $75. viste.org/about-visteball/

Sports

JAN 8– Florida Tropics vs Harrisburg Heat. Indoor Soccer. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sun, 3 pm (doors at 2 pm) RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 13–

Thunder Championship Live Pro Wrestling. Located at Tanners Lakeside, Winter Haven. Doors 7 pm, Bell 8 pm.

JAN 14– Lakeland Magic vs Greensboro Swarm. Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm)

RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 15– Florida Tropics vs Milwaukee Wave. Indoor Soccer. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sun, 3 pm (doors at 2 pm) RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 27– Lakeland Magic vs Fort Wayne Mad Ants. Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm)

RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 28– Lakeland Magic vs Fort Wayne Mad Ants. Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm)

RPFundingCenter.com

JAN 30– Lakeland Magic vs Westchester Knicks Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Mon, 7 pm (doors at 6 pm) RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 5– Lakeland Magic vs Mexico City Capitanes. Basketball. Located at RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sun, 3 pm (doors at 2 pm)

RPFundingCenter.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY CONCERT CALENDAR

THURSDAY, JAN 5

SOUL 2 EARTH (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

PATRICK RENNEY (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FRIDAY, JAN 6

AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES

TRIB TO BEE GEES (RP Funding Center, LKD)

CONSPIRACY THEORY (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

RICK GRAHAM (Apple Lounge, WH)

SMOKEPOINT (Swan Brewing, LKD)

AV PROJECT (Crave & Copper, ADL)

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

OAKLEE MUSIC (Twisted Prop, WH)

SATURDAY, JAN 7

CHASE DIXON 2p/ OAKLEE MUSIC 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

BIG CHILL BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Resort @ Canopy Resort, LW)

GREG REDDING 2p/ SILVERBACK 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD)

MUNNVILLE (Crave & Copper, ADL)

ALMOST THERE DUO (Cypresswood Pub, WH) LOVE PIT (AJ Slammers, WH)

SUNDAY, JAN 8

PATRICK RENNEY 2p/ SOUTHERN BLEND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

PAUL CATALDO (Swan Brewing, LKD)

DANIEL PEPIN (Crave & Copper, ADL)

CONSPIRACY THEORY (Twisted Prop, WH)

BILLY DICKERSON (Harborside, WH)

JADED (Caribbean Bay, WH)

TUESDAY, JAN 10

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 11

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

JADE & DUKE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

THURSDAY, JAN 12

BRADEN CRAWFORD (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

GREG REDDING (Swan Brewing, LKD)

SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

FRIDAY, JAN 13

SOUTH OF THE BLUES (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FLORIDA CARILLON FEST feat TIFFANY NG (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) B. HAVEN (Resort @ Canopy Oaks, LW)

SPANKIN SADIE (Apple Lounge, WH)

SIXX L SIXX (Swan Brewing, LKD)

RYAN JOYCE (Crave & Copper, ADL)

PRIME COUNTRY DUO (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

COMPLETELY UNCHAINED

VAN HALEN TRIB (Union Hall, LKD)

SISTERMISTER (Twisted Prop, WH) WE THE KINGDOM & JEREMY CAMP wsgs ANDY MINEO, DISCIPLE, AUSTIN FRENCH, NEWSONG, ANNE WILSON (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, JAN 14

JIM & JUDY TAYLOR 2p/ AGGIE ROAD 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

SMOKEPOINT (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

BOBBY JAMES (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

KEITH BASS, SOUTHERN EXPRESS, THE WILSON BROTHERS wsg

SANDY BACK PORCH (Lk Alfred Bluegrass Bash, LA)

PAT TRAVERS (Music Ranch, LKD) SHAWN RAHN 2p/ SPITFIRE 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) DAVENPORT BOYS 2p/ BLACK SATIN 6p (Crave & Copper, ADL) THE GRATEFUL ALIVE (Cypresswood Pub, WH) ERASMITH; AEROSMITH TRIB (Ritz Theatre, WH) BARRY MANILOW (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SUNDAY, JAN 15

SPANKIN SADIE 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ACOUSTIC DOSE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) LUBECK (Swan Brewing, LKD) B & R DUO (Crave & Copper, ADL) B. HAVEN (Twisted Prop, WH) FRAMING THE RED (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

TUESDAY, JAN 17

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) BARRY MANILOW (Amway Center, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 18

JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, JAN 19

TONY KNIGHT (Tanners Lakeside, WH) RED HOT ROOSTER (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

JOHN FRINZI (Swan Brewing, LKD) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) TELSA (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP) THE HEADBANG (Hard Rock Cafe, TMP)

FRIAY, JAN 20

A CHUNKA SUMTHIN’ (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

THE 1969 BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

RED HEADED STEPCHILD (Apple Lounge, WH)

AGGIE ROAD (Swan Brewing, LKD)

SCOTT HOOKER (Crave & Copper, ADL)

TMIKE & DUKE (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

TRAVIS WILLIAMS (Twisted Prop, WH)

SATURDAY, JAN 21

BLACK SATIN DUO 2p/ SPANKIN SADIE 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

PATRICK RENNEY (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) ALMOST THERE 12p/ RUSTY WRIGHT BAND 2:30/ FREE WHISKEY 5:30p/ SOUL 2 EARTH 7:30p (Tanners Lakeside, WH) JIM THOMAS 2p/ 33 YEARS 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD)

JEFF HOWELL (Crave & Copper, ADL)

FEVER BAND (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

SUNDAY, JAN 22

PATRICK RENNEY 2p/ SOUTHERN BLEND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

JEFF MIDDLETON (Swan Brewing, LKD)

DANIEL PEPIN (Crave & Copper, ADL)

AGGIE ROAD (Twisted Prop, WH)

TMIKE & DUKE (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

TUESDAY, JAN 24

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 25

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

ALTER BRIDGE wsgs MAMMOTH & RED (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

THURSDAY, JAN 26

ELTON JOHN TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC)

CIRCUS MUTT (Swan Brewing, LKD)

SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

MICAH MADORE DUO (Council Oak Lounge, TMP)

FRIDAY, JAN 27

WANTED BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

FREE WHISKEY 5:30p/ ALMOST THERE 8:30p (Lakeland PigFest, LKD)

BLAKE FREE (Apple Lounge, WH)

BULLY 4 U (Swan Brewing, LKD)

JIM & JUDY TAYLOR (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

NEAL AND PREY (Twisted Prop, WH)

B. HAVEN (Resort @ Canopy Oaks, LW)

SATURDAY, JAN 28

BIG TIME JUKEBOX (Old Man Frank’s, WH) 99 IN THE SHADE (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

JOEY FOLEY (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

DAYGLO RED 2p/ BRETT FOSTER (Swan Brewing, LKD) DAVENPORT 2p/ MUNNVILLE 6p (Crave & Copper, ADL)

SOUTHERN BLEND (Cypresswood Pub, WH) B. HAVEN (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) MATT WALKER TRIO 11a/ RUSTY WRIGHT BAND 2p (Lakeland PigFest, LKD)

RETROFLO (Ducky’s Dockside Bar, HC)

SUNDAY, JAN 29

OAKLEE MUSIC 6p

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

B & R DUO (Crave & Copper, ADL) BLAKE FREE (Twisted Prop, WH)

JIM THOMAS (Harborside, WH)

TUESDAY, JAN 31

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 1

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND (Amalie Arena, TMP)

THURSDAY, FEB 2

DARA TANNER (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FRIDAY, FEB 3

CONSPIRACY THEORY (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TMIKE & DUKE (Smoke On The Water, WH)

BLIND AMBITION (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

TOBY MAC wsg

CROWDER, COCHREN & CO, TASHA LAYTON, JON REDDICK, TERRIAN (Amway Center, ORL)

SATURDAY, FEB 4

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Bok Tower Wine Walk, LW)

BLACK SATIN DUO 2p/ THE WANTED 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

B. HAVEN (Cypresswood Pub, WH) CARRIE UNDERWOOD wsg JIMMIE ALLEN (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SUNDAY, FEB 5

A CHUNKA SUMTHIN’ 2p/ SOUTHERN BLEND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND (Amway Center, ORL)

MONDAY, FEB 6

TOBY MAC wsg

CROWDER, COCHREN & CO, TASHA LAYTON, JON REDDICK, TERRIAN (Amalie Arena, TMP)

TUESDAY, FEB 7

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 8

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, FEB 10

JOSH BLEVINS (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FLORIDA CARILLON

FEST feat LISA LONIE (Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

PRIME COUNTRY DUO (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

SATURDAY, FEB 11

CHASE DIXON 2p/ BLACK SATIN 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

RUSTY & LAURIE WRIGHT (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

SUNDAY, FEB 12

PATRICK RENNEY 2p/ OAKLEE MUSIC 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TUESDAY, FEB 14

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

JAY WHEELER (Amway Center, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 15

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, FEB 16

JOEY FOLEY (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

CIRCUS MUTT (Swan Brewing, LKD)

ANDREA BOCELLI (Amalie Arena, TMP)

ROD STEWART (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

FRIDAY, FEB 17

A CHUNKA SUMTHIN’ (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FEVER BAND (Cypresswood Pub, WH) B & R DUO (Crave & Copper, ADL)

SATURDAY, FEB 18

PATRICK RENNEY 2p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

SUNDAY, FEB 19

BLACK SATIN DUO 2p/ SOUTHERN BLEND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TUESDAY, FEB 21

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) GLADYS KNIGHT (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 22

TINA TURNER TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC) JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, FEB 23

KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

FRIDAY, FEB 24

JOSH BLEVINS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ALMOST THERE DUO (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

THE JUDDS featuring WYNONNA wsg ASHLEY MCBRYDE, BRANDI CARLILE, KELSEA BALLERINI, LITTLE BIG TOWN AND MARTINA MCBRIDE (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, FEB 25

JIM & JUDY TAYLOR 2p/ SOUTH OF THE BLUES 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (Cypresswood Pub, WH) 33 YEARS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

SUNDAY, FEB 26

BLACK SATIN DUO 2p/ SPANKIN SADIE 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TUESDAY, FEB 28

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, MAR 1

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, MAR 3

ALISON BROWN (Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

BLAKE SHELTON wsg CARLY PEARCE AND JACKSON DEAN (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, MAR 4

SEAN CHAMBERS (Music Ranch, LKD)

AGGIE ROAD

BLAKE SHELTON wsg CARLY PEARCE AND JACKSON DEAN (Amway Center, ORL)

TUESDAY, MAR 7

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, MAR 10

GRETA VAN FLEET (Amalie Arena, TMP)

TUESDAY, MAR 14

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, MAR 17

FLORIDA CARILLON FEST feat JOHN WIDMANN (Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

TUESDAY, MAR 21

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, MAR 24

STEEP CANYON RANGERS (Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

SATURDAY, MAR 25

ANA GABRIEL (Amway Center, ORL)

TUESDAY, MAR 28

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) ATTENTION

by James Coulter

With a new year comes New Year’s resolutions. For many, that resolution involves getting in shape and losing weight. Many people try, while many more quit within the first month. If your New Year’s resolution is better health and to get in shape yet you haven’t figured out how to obtain that better looking figure, then consider these fitness options:

#1: Gym Membership & Personal Trainers

The most common resolution is losing weight. So, the most common commitment is joining a gym. But while some people join a gym with the fervor of an Olympic athlete, come February, they often stop going.

Brandon Roggow, Owner of Habitat Health and Fitness in Winter Haven, blames this drop-

off rate to lack of motivation. People go in with high hopes but quickly run out of steam.

“Someone wants to lose 50 pounds, so they focus on those 50 pounds,” Roggow explained. “The moment the scale does not move in the direction of those 50 pounds, they get discouraged and they stop going.”

Roggow suggests focusing on the process rather than the goal. Going to a motivational environment like a gym is the best way to accomplish that, he suggests.

“If you go to the library, you are motivated to learn and study in that environment. That is set up for that,” he said. “When you go into a gym environment, they are working out with a sense of motivation.”

Roggow started Habitat for Health and Fitness 13 years ago with the goal of merging a traditional gym with personal training. He wanted everyone to work out with a personal

trainer, so the gym hosts fitness sessions with a trainer often leading between 3 to 30 people.

When searching for a gym, he recommends asking questions about goals and motivations. Are you self -motivated? If so, a regular gym membership would suffice. If not, consider a personal trainer.

Pros: Exercising in a motivational environment designed specifically for fitness with plenty of equipment for all your potential fitness needs and goals.

Cons: Membership fees can be expensive, getting to the gym can be difficult to incorporate into daily or weekly routine, and in-experienced newcomers could face potential safety hazards by using equipment improperly.

Yoga

Most people focus on improving their physical health, but even more important is improving their mental and emotional health. Practicing yoga is a great way to improve all three!

Take it from Jody Reece from Inside Out Yoga in Winter Haven. She was introduced to yoga during her first class 22 years ago. Now, she has become an official yoga instructor.

“It has become life changing for me,” she said. “I just felt a whole lot better physically and mentally.”

Yoga has various benefits, from increasing mobility and flexibility to reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Jody has seen many students come in for the first time and have their lives improve after a few classes.

“We have had students who went off of their blood pressure medication,” she said. “Some say their back feels better after one class.”

For anyone starting yoga, she recommends joining a class. While many people can try yoga at home, being in a non-judgmental group environment can help motivate them.

“Just come with an open mind,” she said. “Do what you can do. Rest if you need to rest. Our teachers are great about giving modifications and not comparing yourself to anyone else.”

Pros: Yoga is a low-risk exercise with many physical and mental health benefits. It can improve flexibility and mobility, boost immunity, and reduce stress and anxiety.

Cons: Even a low-risk exercise, like any other, has a slight risk of injury, and in-person yoga classes can be expensive.

#3: Boxing

Boxing is more than a sport or hobby. For many, it’s a way of life. Not only can it make people more physically active and fit, but they can also gain crucial self-defense skills along with confidence, and motivation.

Since opening Winter Haven Boxing, Coach Marco Fazzini has

seen many students, young and old, enter his boxing rings and turn their lives around through his rigorous training.

So many have trained to be amateur and professional athletes who won championships. Many lost weight while others gained confidence. All of them have improved their lives through the discipline and perseverance honed through boxing, Fazzini explained.

While boxing lessons are taught at some commercial gyms, Fazzini recommends joining an official boxing club or gym. Learning the sport takes hard work and commitment, but all of that more than pays off when the result is a better, fitter, more confident you.

“They should know in advance that they will sweat a lot, they will be sore, and they will work hard,” he said. “Boxing is not a sport you play. When you join a boxing club, take it serious, and the good times will roll.”

Pros: Basic routine does not require glove-to-body contact, which means less risk of serious injury. Boxing can help reduce stress and improve stamina, strength, and cardiovascular health.

Cons: Even mere glove-to-body contact poses slight risks to injury such as bruises, scrapes, and head injuries. Also, the cost of lessons and equipment can be quite pricey.

#4: Zumba

Does Latin and hip-hop music make you want to get up and dance? If so, then Zumba might be the best choice for you. It’s a great excuse to burn calories while dancing along to fast-paced Latin-inspired music. You can burn up to 500 to 900 calories within an hour’s workout, according to Paulina Ryerson, Zumba instructor for Just Move South Lakeland.

Paulina has been teaching Zumba for ten years. Her instructor helped her gain a passion for the workout, with dance songs like the music she grew up listening to in Equador. She has since become certified and now teaches classes at Just Move.

She loves the great cardio workout Zumba offers. The Latin-inspired music fills students with high energy

and inspires them to dance their calories away through high-octane choreography.

“When you get into it and start dancing, you get hooked with the music and happiness in the room,” Paulina said. “Zumba is more than family. We are a community. We share love everywhere because we help people...[and] we just help each other. We are like a loving family.”

Pros: Due to its growing popularity, Zumba classes are widely available and flexible to fit into one’s busy schedule. The workout is highly motivational and boost mood, self-esteem, and energy.

Cons: As with most forms of exercise, Zumba carries the inherent risk of potential injury from soreness to muscle sprains and strains.

#5: Pilates

Do your joints ache? Are they not as flexible as they used to be? Do you suffer from back

pain? Perhaps the best solution is to strengthen your core muscles. So why not try Pilates?

Pilates is like yoga only with greater focus on building your core strength, which, in turns, helps facilitate overall better health. Through this intense workout of your core muscles, you can improve your strength, flexibility, balance, and posture.

“Pilates helps strengthen your core,” explained Chris Alicea, General Manager of Club Pilates Lakeland. “The mid part supports everything, and as you strengthen it, your body will take proper posture and you will feel good about yourself. But the biggest take away is [that you will] roll your shoulders back and keep you in an upright position, [which will] increase muscle strength and stress management.”

Alicea has served as an instructor for more than 17 years. During that time, he has seen his student’s health improve immensely under

his tutelage, as they experience benefits from lowered stress to increased bone density. His advice for newcomers is to do their research beforehand.

“I tell them to do their homework,” he said. “Find out your limitations and what you are trying to achieve…Just consider what you are going to do and think about Pilates as a workout that works out your entire body and helps you achieve most of the goals you are looking for.”

Pros: Pilates is a low-impact exercise that strengthens your core muscles, which helps improve flexibility, balance, and posture, decrease stress, and alleviate back and joint pain.

Cons: The exercise is not the best way to burn calories, and a cardio workout will need to supplement it. Also, as with other routines, there is a slight risk of injury, especially for beginners.

If you’re looking for a place to get into shape this year, consider these local gyms and locations:

Fitness Gyms

Habitat Health and Fitness 650 6th St SW Suite 101, Winter Haven, FL 33880 https://habitatfit.com/ 863-875-7575

Elite Fitness Gym 6294 Cypress Gardens Boulevard, Winter Haven, FL 33884 https://elitefitnesswh.com/ 863-662-3999

Laws of Fitness Downtown 46 3rd St NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881 https://lawsoffitness.net/ 863-875-3254

Power Fitness 7020 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33884 https://www.powerfitnesswh.com/ 863-488-9050

Crunch Fitness 5218 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813 https://www.crunch.com/locations/lakeland 863-677-9200

Just Move Athletic Club Winter Haven and Lakeland https://www.justmovewinterhaven.com/ https://www.justmovehavendale.com/ https://www.justmovesouthlakeland.com/

Planet Fitness Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Lake Wales https://www.planetfitness.com/

Anytime Fitness Various Locations https://www.anytimefitness.com/

Yoga

Inside Out Yoga 52 4th St NW

Winter Haven, FL 3388 http://www.ioyogastudio.com 863-224-2311

Yoga Bliss Studio 205 E Stuart Ave Lake Wales, FL 33853 https://yogablissstudiofl.com/ 813-299-5159

Fibrofit Wellness & Yoga 121 Ridge Center Dr, Davenport, FL 33837 https://www.fibrofitwellness.net/ 863-438-2600

Valhalla Yoga And Wellness 449 N Andrea Cir, Haines City, FL 33844 https://valhallayoga.squarespace.com/ 407 408-4279

The Balance Culture 1037 Florida Ave S #125, Lakeland, FL 33803 https://thebalanceculture.com/ 863-603-8567

Yoga Pointe Inc 2539 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33803 https://www.yogapointe.com/ 863-937-8069

Satya Life Yoga 112 E Pine St, Lakeland, FL 33801 https://www.satyalife.com/ 863-802-9642

Boxing

Winter Haven Boxing 2510 Avenue G NW, Winter Haven, FL 33880 https://www.facebook.com/winterhavenboxing/ 863-207-7460

Collado Boxing Academy 1331 N Combee Rd Ste 1331, Combee Settlement, FL 33801 https://www.facebook.com/ ColladoBoxingAcademy/ 863-660-1245

RockBody Health & Fitness Studio 3076 Cypress Gardens Rd, Cypress Gardens, FL 33884 https://www.facebook.com/rocbodyhealthfitstudio/ 863-280-5492

Big Dreams Boxing & Fitness Academy 1853 E Memorial Blvd Ste 111 Lakeland, FL 33801 https://big-dreams-box-fit.business.site/ 863-412-9687

Pilates

The Spot Fitness Studio 1126 1st St S, Winter Haven, FL 33880 https://thespotfitnessstudio.com/ 863-662-3248

Physical Health Center 301 3rd St NW Ste 200, Winter Haven, FL 33881 https://www.facebook.com/PHC.Pilates/ 863-651-8032

Club Pilates 4747 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813 https://www.clubpilates.com/location/lakeland 863-398-1400

The Balance Culture 037 Florida Ave S #125, Lakeland, FL 33803 https://thebalanceculture.com/ 863-603-8567

Viva Pilates 104 W Reynolds St, Plant City, FL 33563 https://www.vivapilatesplus.com/ 813-951-3420

Sculpted Swan Fitness 845 Creative Dr #3, Lakeland, FL 33813 https://sculptedswan.com/ 863-604-5255

Zumba

Just Move Havendale 1164 Havendale Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33881 https://www.justmovehavendale.com/ 863-294-4653

Wilfred Smith Community Center 135 Ave Y NE, Winter Haven, FL 33881 http://www.polk-county.net/ 863-298-7898

Anytime Fitness 23749 Hwy 27 Lake Wales FL 33859 https://www.anytimefitness.com/gyms/3344/ lake-wales-fl-33859/ 863-949-4819

Lake Wales Family YMCA 1001 Burns Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853 https://www.ymca.org/locations/ lake-wales-family-ymca 863-676-9441

Johnny and Freda Brooks Eloise Resource Center

710 Snively Ave, Eloise, FL 33880 https://www.polk-county.net/ 863-298-4485

POLK COUNTY’S RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

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 Handdipped 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 863-8753974

HAINES CITY

BALMORAL BAR & GRILL

AT BALMORAL RESORT

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) (863) 588-3097 • BalmoralBarandGrill. com

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

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

MISTER FISH

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

LAKE WALES

CRAZY FISH

Land mark eatery in Lake Wales. Fresh fish never frozen. Fun and casual atmo-

sphere. 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) 6766361

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

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

ARABELLA’S

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

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Locally owned sports pub with 30 TVs and full bar. Lunch value combos MondaysFridays 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

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 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

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

1. Who wrote “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”?

2. Which song would Elvis Presley always sing to end his concerts?

3. What type of music did Country Joe and the Fish play?

4. Name Bobby Hebb’s best known song.

5. Name the song that contains these lyrics: “I lost at love before. Got mad and closed the door. But you said try just once more. I chose you for the one. Now we’re having so much fun.”

ANSWERS

1. Beatle George Harrison, who also sang the lead. The song was written after the group came back from studying transcendental meditation with a Yogi. The demo included a verse that wasn’t used.

2. “I Can’t Help Falling in Love With You.” It was also the last song he performed at his last live concert, in 1977.

3. Psychedelic rock, circa the 1960s, in Berkeley, California. Think: counterculture, free love and anti-war songs.

4. “Sunny,” 1966.

5. “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” by Brenda Holloway in 1967 and Blood, Sweat & Tears in 1969. Holloway wrote the song, but BS&T took it to near the top of the charts, bested only by “Aquarius/ Let the Sunshine In” at the No. 1 position.

the water, but it makes shrubs and flowers grow like crazy.” -- Patti in Orlando, Florida

ROSCO

Rosco is a brown male Black Mouth Cur mix. He is approximately 4 years old. Rosco is a calm boy but gets very excited around people. He needs a home with residents over the age of 16 and will need to be the only animal in the home. Rosco loves all kinds of toys and loves to play fetch but doesn't like to bring the toy back and can become very protective of his toys.

CASSIE

Cassie is our hyper 8 month old Husky Lab mix. She is a super playful girl. Cassie can be shy when it comes to meeting new people but she warms up quickly and shows her true rambunctious self. She loves kids and does well with other dogs. Cassie does not like mops, but she does love watching TV. She would make a great addition to any home!

TRACE

Trace is a black and white female Domestic Short hair mix. She is approximately 6 months old. She has been spayed. Trace is a very shy, "fraidy" cat. She doesn't like being here at the shelter and is very stressed out here. Trace would love to get out of here and go to a home where she has free reign to roam around.

PARKER

• To make a nice ice pack, enclose several ice cubes in a plastic, sealable baggie, then wrap in a bandana. You can tie the ends together to keep the cover from slipping. When you want to refreeze, put the baggie in the freezer, and hang the bandana to dry. It will dry very quickly and can be reused soon.

• Want to get the most bang for your buck at the takeaway salad bar? Load up on bacon, walnuts, cheese, meats and dried fruits; go light on green beans, cucumbers, hard-boiled eggs, celery, radishes and chickpeas, which were marked up 200% to 300%.

• “When you clean out your fish tank, recycle the used water by pouring it on your house or garden plants. I don’t know what it is in

• “The all-time best remedy for a runny nose or sore throat doesn’t cost hardly a thing: It’s plain old saltwater. Mix a half-teaspoon into a cup of hot water and gargle twice to three times a day. If the taste is off-putting, try swishing a bit of mouthwash in your mouth just before you gargle with the saltwater. This works so well, and even my doctor thinks it’s a great idea.” -- F.L. in Michigan

• Use salt to clean out your garbage disposal. Kosher salt has larger grains that work very well. Dump a half-cup in the disposal, run the cold water and hit the switch. The grains scour the inside, leaving a better smelling drain.

• “Here’s a great after-workout drink I just found out about: chocolate milk. The trainer at my gym prefers it over the fancy and costly “post-workout” drinks at the gym’s smoothie bar.” -- I.E. in Oregon

Introducing Parker, a black and white domestic medium hair cat who is neutered, microchipped, and up-todate on his shots. He gets along with people of all ages as well as dogs. His favorite activity is pulling/ chasing strings and lounging in his cat bed. Parker is an energetic cat who prefers not to be picked up. But other than that he is very social.

The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227

Tues-Sat 10:30-6pm. Closed 1-2 pm

Veterinarian of the Month

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Dr. Vargas loves the community of Winter Haven and she is involved in a number of local organizations, including: Ridge Veterinary Medical Society where she was the 2008-2009 president

Junior League of Greater Winter Haven Board Humane Society of Polk County Board Women’s Resource Center and Girls, Inc.

Vargas

BARS&PUBS

*Please

AUBURNDALE

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 102 W Polk Street (863) 968-0010

Full Liquor Sports Bar TVs for the Games

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd (863) 967-2739 Wed, Trivia 6p Daily/Weekly Specials Pool, Darts, Full Liquor Sunday Ticket/SEC/ACC Smoke-Free/Outside Patio Feb 11, Chili Cookoff Feb 12, Big Game Party

Crave & Copper 117 East Lake Ave (863) 968-2971

Local Microbrewery Patio Bar/Restaurant Wed-Sun, Open at 11a Fri-Sun, Live Music

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 E Van Fleet Dr (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

Stanford Wines 165 S Central Ave (863) 800-3395

Open Daily 4-10 pm Fine Wine & Charcuterie StanfordWines.com

FB@stanfordwines

The Wine Stable 150 S Broadway (863) 533-9463

Full Bar Live Music Food Avail.

DAVENPORT

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350

Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps

Fireside Lounge & Billiards 43356 US 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 Wed & Sun, Karaoke Thu, Ladies Night

FROSTPROOF

P & J Recreation 33 S Scenic Hwy (863) 635-9825

Home of Famous Slaw Burger!

Full Liquor

FT. MEADE

Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 N Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732

Food Avail.

HAINES CITY

Amos Tavern 200 US Hwy 17 92 N (863) 422-1459

Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Blvd (863) 588-3097

Patio Dining & Full Bar Live Music

Mon, Jukebox Bingo 6-8p Tue, Trivia 6-8p Wed, Karaoke 6-9p Fri, DJ/Latin Nights 7-10p

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848

Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs

Ducky’s Dockside Bar & Grill 1090 Shady Cove Rd E (863) 353-5295

Thu, Acoustic Jam 6p Fri, Karaoke 6p Sat & Sun, Live Music

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 Food/Drink Specials

LAKE ALFRED

LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966

Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F

LAKELAND

1916 Irish Pub Cleveland Heights Golf Course 2900 Buckingham Ave (863) 834-2384 Daily, 11a-10p Thu, Ladies Night 5-9p Sat/Sun, Brunch 10-3p Food, Full Bar

Ax-Caliber 204 E Orange St, Ste 102 (863) 592-3500

Tue-Wed 11a-10p/Thu-Fri 11a-11p Sat 10a-11p, Sun 10a-7p Axe Throwing, Virtual Gun Range Coffee House, Restaurant Beer & Wine

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

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s South 4810 S Florida Ave (863) 646-7757

Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs

The Brass Tap

1515 Town Center Dr Lakeside Village (863) 680-9994

Daily, Open at 12p Martini Wed, $5 Craft Beers, Full Bar Food, Live Music

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 Florida Ave (863) 646-2600

Pool & Billiard Sports Hall Full Liquor Bar Open Daily Sun & Wed, S.I.N. Night Thu, Ladies Night

Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Open Daily, 11a-10p Daily Specials 2-10p Tue, Ladies Night 4p-cl Tue/Thu, BOGO Beer Thu, Free Trivia 8p

Cob & Pen 1221 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8126

Craft Beer & Wine Full Liquor Bar Food/Light Food

Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E Edgewood Dr Suite G (863) 686-6441

Duke’s Brewhouse 4960 S Florida Ave (863) 647-9464

Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music

Frescos Bistro 132 S Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7

Monthly Pairings

Great Bistro Fare Full Bar/Crafted Cocktails

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 S Tennessee Ave (863) 210-5327

Full Liquor Jazz & Cigar Lounge Business Casual Sun –Thu Dress to Impress Fri & Sat

Leo’s Live Music & Billiards (A.K.A. Ybor Cigars) 5263 S Florida Ave (863) 619-6799

Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music

Linksters Tap Room (Dntn) 209 E Main St (863) 683-7195 Daily, 12p Full Liquor Smoke Free Sports Bar

Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl) 4318 US Hwy 98 N (863) 858-3878

Mon, Poker 7p Wed, Poker 11a 1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands

Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer 1853 E Memorial Blvd (863) 583-9119

Coldest Beer in Town! Tue, $1.50 Tacos Wed, $5/$6 Burgers Sat, .75 Bone-in Wings Sun, 1/2 Price Boneless Wings

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231

Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri

Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 4204 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8925 Daily, 12p

Full Bar, TVs Darts, Golden Tee, Pool

The Pink Piano 1015 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8885

Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas

Rec Room 202 N Massachusetts Ave (863) 213-4073

Open 4p Mon-Fri, 11a Sat & Sun

Open Late Night

Daily Specials, 50+ Games

Wed, Ladies Night

Food Trucks Fri & Sat 8p

Family During Day/21+ after 9p

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

Wild Greg’s Saloon 4951 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-9133

Thu-Sat, 7p-2a Nightclub/Concert Venue

Winner’s Circle 4215 S Florida Ave (863) 644-9464

Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p

The Yard On Mass 802 N Massachusetts Ave (863) 333-0330

Open Daily Beer Garden, Food Trucks Full Bar, Live Music

LAKE WALES

Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 241-3070

Sat, $1 Days: Drafts, Sodas, Fries, Sliders, Chili Dogs Open Daily 11-4; Wed & Fri, 11-7p

All Star Grill 2019 Hwy 60 E (863) 679-9689

Sports Bar Open Daily 11a-11p

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 Food Avail.

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 W Central Ave (863) 229-8142

Open Mon-Sat, 4p Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4:30-5:30p Full Menu/Full Bar Smoke-Free

Barrel239 239 3rd St SW (863) 229-7740 Whiskey Bar Open Daily Drink Specials 1-4p Smoke-Free

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464

Full Liquor Sports Pub 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special

BARS&PUBS

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 Sun, Brunch

Gary’s Grove 2995 Cypress Gardens Rd (863) 325-0001 Mon, Live Music Fri, Karaoke Pizza/Hot Dogs Avail

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 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 (863) 298-9815

Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p Mon, Free Pool

Wed, Big Ass Jam Night Live Music Weekly Smoke-Free

Laugh Out Lounge 19 3rd Street NW Wed, Thu, Sun 5-10p

Fri & Sat 5-11p Comedy Club/Bar Beer/Wine FB@LaughOutLoungeWH

Obscure Wine Company 276 W Central Ave (863) 268-6555

Mon-Thu 11a-10p

Fri-Sat 11a-12a, Sun 11a-8p Mon, Magical Mon 11a-10p Wed, Wine Down Wed 5-8p

Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767

Happy Hr 12-7 Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue, Fri, Sat - Poker Pool Tables, Darts & Food Avail.

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/$1.50 Tacos Wed, Karaoke Thu-Sun, Live Music Jan 28, Customer Appreciation

Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 875-5708

Daily, 12pm Irish Style Sports Bar Pool, Darts, Golden Tee TVs, Full Bar

Past Time Lounge 1605 1st Street 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

The Social Lounge 356 3rd Street NW

Sun-Thu, 12p-12a Fri, 12p-2a/Sat, 2p-2a Mon, Martinis $6 Wed-Sat, Live Music Speakeasy-style Lounge Classic/Craft Cocktails

Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 324-7524

Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p

Beer Specials/Sports Packages Mon-Fri, Lunch Specials

Tanner’s Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 662-5948

Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Wed, 1/2 Price Wines

Thu-Sun, Live Music

Jan 13, Pro Wrestling Jan 20/21, Waterski/Music Fest

Union Taproom

245 W Central Ave, ST 102 (863) 268-4921

Hrs: Tue-Thu 4-10p, Fri 4-11p, Sat 12-11p, Sun 12-7p

40 Self Pour Taps; Brews & More Pizza: Wed-Fri, 4-cl/Fri & Sat,12-cl Wed, Trivia 7p

Fri & Sat, Live Music 7-10p 1st Thu, Night Market 6-9p