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Ashley Marston Croley 863-676-2718

MICHELE OUELLETTE

A TRAVELING EXHIBIT BY THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER ON DISPLAY AT THE MUSEUM JANUARY 28 - MARCH 14, 2020 UPCOMING EVENTS SPIRITED: PROHIBITION IN AMERICA EXHIBIT OPENING RECEPTION WELCOME TO THE SPEAKEASY! FEBRUARY 6 AT 6 PM HISTORY TALKS MUSEUM SPEAKER TAVERN LIFE IN COLONIAL FLORIDA BY DIANA REIGELSPERGER FEBRUARY 20 AT 6 PM

TUES - SAT â&#x2122;¦ 9 AM - 5 PM FREE ADMISSION 863.676.1759 lakewalesfl.gov/museum

BOOK CLUB - 4TH THURSDAY OF THE MONTH FEB- OH FLORIDA! BY CRAIG PITTMAN MARCH - BECOMING BY MICHELLE OBAMA FLORIDA TALKS SPEAKER OLD FLORIDA STORIES BY CAREN NEILE MARCH 12 AT 6 PM EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!

FEBRUARY 2020 3

ALAN JAY WILDSTEIN

CENTER for the PERFORMING ARTS a t S O U T H F L O R I D A S TAT E C O L L E G E

Bill Engvall

Just Sell Him for Parts Tour Friday, February 21 • 8 p.m. Bill Engvall is a Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling recording artist and one of America’s most hilarious comedians. Engvall’s iconic brand of observational satire is as relatable as it is laugh out loud funny. Bill’s first album, “Here’s Your Sign,” held the #1 position on the Billboard Comedy Chart for 15 straight weeks. He previously starred in, and executive produced, the TBS sitcom The Bill Engvall Show. Alongside Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy and Ron White, Bill was part of the enormously successful Blue Collar Comedy concert films, which have sold more than 9 million units and received a Grammy nomination.

Tickets Available Online at sfscARTS.org

Save 10% by using the code “COMEDY” at checkout Sponsored by Sebring International Raceway V & W Dairy Farms • Midflorida Credit Union 4

FEBRUARY 2020

Visitor Information Center

FEBRUARY 15 TH 10 AM 3 PM

101 ADVENTURE CT, DAVENPORT

863-420-2586

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GO GREEK

Yogurt’s thicker, creamier, more delectable cousin, Greek yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and protein. Add a drizzle of honey and or some fresh blueberries or raspberries to plain Greek yogurt for an extra nutritional punch. Even if you’re not a fan of yogurt, give Greek yogurt a try the next

time you need a quick morning meal. You may be pleasantly surprised!

King Features Weekly Service

yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch-thick slices 10 Brussels sprouts, halved 4 green onions, root ends removed 1 large carrot, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 celery roots, peeled, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 large head of garlic, separated into cloves, smashed and peeled 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning 1/4 teaspoon sugar 1. Heat the oven to 400 F. Pour 1/2 cup of the olive oil on a large sheet pan or jelly-roll pan, 15 1/2 by 10 1/2 by 1 inch, coating pan with the oil. Place pan in oven to heat for 5 minutes, watching carefully to make sure it doesn’t overheat or smoke. 2. In a large bowl, mix together

flaxorseed, chipscooking and a terolivechocolate oil-flavored spray, shallow, round littlelightly honeyspray rolleda into bite-size casserole dish or a round baking dish. ballssheets makeof heavenly little bitesorof Place parchment paper energy that’ll fuelbowl yourwith morning. pieces of foil inside strips overlapping the edges to make the Best of all, they’re no-bake and croustade easier to remove. Lightly takethe less than 10 minutes spray parchment or foil. to make! Make ahead and store 3. Placesome pastry in casserole dishextras or baking with pastry in thedish refrigerator for edges up to aoverweek. lapping the sides. Mound vegetable cream-cheese mixture in center of INTO BREAKFAST theDIP pastry. Leaving an opening in the center, fold tangy the pastry Prefer overedges sweetaround in the the filling, crimping edges under to morning? Try eating hummus. form a bowl. Like nuts, bowl, hummus quick, egg In a small mix istogether and water to make an egg wash. healthy and full of protein Brush and pastry with egg mixture. Bake the good fats to start your day the croustade 20 to 30 minutes or until right way. Eat it with pita chips, baby carrots, snap peas or celery slices for some extra vitamins.

October 3, 2016

rumble. the remaining 1/2 cup of oil, the potatoes, squash, Brussels sprouts, green onions, carrot, celery roots, DRINK YOUR BREAKFAST garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and The sugar until pour-and-go the vegetables are perfect option, coated. Carefully place vegetables smoothies are a great, easy-to- on the heated pan and roast for 15 to 20 stomachstirring choiceonce for breakfast. If minutes, after 10 minutes. Allow vegetables to you’ll cool before you’re a multi-tasker, love mixing with the tofu cream filling. the idea of drinking your breakTo Make the Tofu CreamtoFilling: fast as you commute work or to 1 container (4 ounces) light Croustade Will Tempt school.whipped Keep your freezer cream cheesestocked CAN’T STOMACH 4 frozen ouncesfruit soft, and silkenvegetables tofu, Even Non-Vegetarians with BREAKFAST? TRY THESE drained like and kale for quick and OPTIONS I love to talk about food. To me, 1/2 spinach cup Parmesan cheese food is the universal common denomeasy 1/2 prep. cup light mayonnaise inator, because everyone has to eat. 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Maybe you’re onestrangers of thoseabout peoI love talking with 1/2 teaspoon salt GO ple who thought the foodscan’t they stomach loved as the a child, or 1/2 NUTS teaspoon black pepper recipes they like to prepare, because Nuts are such a deliciously of a meal the first thing in the those stories are often some of their morning, or maybe become healthy protein, and so simple happiest memories andyou’ve a window into their culture. accustomed to running on vats of too! Grab a handful of almonds, My special Roasted Vegetable coffee instead of a healthy breakwalnuts or pistachios to snack Croustade recipe is a crowd-pleaser. fast. Sometimes traditional breakon; spread a couple tablespoons It’s a great appetizer or side dish for folks who aren’t vegetarians, a lovely fast foods sound kind of blah. Who of almond or peanut butter on main course for those who are, and made the rules on breakfast foods toast, waffles or apple slices; or eat a delicious way to form a bond with anyway? new friends and old. peanut butter straight from the jar The next time you’re in a rush with a spoon! ROASTED VEGETABLE or can’t get excited by traditional CROUSTADE breakfast staples, try some of these BITE-SIZE ENERGY To Roast the Vegetables: 1 cup olive oil, ideas that will makedivided even the most Cookies for breakfast? Yes, 3 red potatoes, scrubbed and die-hard breakfast hater’s tummy please! Nut butter, oats, ground quartered

EMBRACE THE CARBS

When the carb-monster strikes in the morning demanding a box of donuts, try healthy breakfast breads or muffins instead. Who has time to bake in the morning, you ask? Nobody! Bake a loaf of your favorite breakfast breads or a pan of muffins on the weekend. You can slice the bread and freeze it or freeze the muffins after they’ve cooled. Then, just warm up a slice of bread or a muffin in the morning and get on with your day. FATTEN UP YOUR MORNING

Who doesn’t love deliciously creamy avocados? I like to mash an avocado in a bowl with a little olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper and spread it on toast. Avocado is full of healthy fat and will keep you satisfied throughout your busy morning.

Phil Curry

In a large bowl, mix together the whipped cream cheese, tofu, Parmesan, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to blend flavors. Mix the cooled, roasted vegetables with the tofu cream filling until well-blended. To Make the Croustade: 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed 1 egg 1 tablespoon water 1. Thaw pastry sheet at room temperature for 40 minutes. The oven should already be heated to 400 F if the vegetables were roasted in it, or preheat oven as needed. 2. Unfold puff pastry on lightly floured surface. Roll pastry into 16-by-12-inch rectangle. Using but-

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the pastry is golden brown. To serve, allow to cool for 10 minutes. Using a spatula, gently loosen croustade from the baking dish or pan using the sheets of parchment or foil to help move it on to a serving dish. Serve warm or at room temperature. *** Angela Shelf Medearis is an award-winning children’s author, culinary historian and the author of five cookbooks. Her latest cookbook, “The New African-American Kitchen,” is in bookstores now. She’s known as The Kitchen Diva and is the executive producer and host of “The Kitchen Diva!” television cooking show. Visit her Web site at www. divapro.com. © 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

FEBRUARY 2020 5

S T N E T N O C F O E L B A T

TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 16 Issue 7 February 2020 7

13 3rd Annual EGGfest

24 Spring in the Arts 28 Cupid Approved Valentine's Ideas

COLUMNS: 9

What's Rustling Jimmy's Jimmies?

Now Here's a Tip

13 3rd Annual EGGfest

21 Flash Back Music Trivia 21 On-o-mato-poe-ia 31 Tracey's Tid-Bits

32 Brain Exercise

LISTINGS: 10 Local Live Music 12 Snap Shotz 22 Restaurant Spotlights 26 Calendar of Events

STAFF

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:

CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE

COLUMNS

36th Annual Lake Wales Mardi Gras

THE FUN & AMUSING: 32 Crossword

We are officially smooth sailing through the new year, can you believe it? Already February! Spring will be right around the corner and lots of local festivals are underway. February has always been a favorite month of mine, with so many upcoming things to do, it definitely keeps us all busy here at T&T Mag. Make sure to check out our monthly calendar and listings on our website www.todayandtonight.com where local readers and businesses have been listing events since we launched! It’s a great tool to figure out what’s going on each month and how to plan your weekend. Also, we can’t forget about Valentine’s Day on February 14th. Remember that special someone and also support our small businesses: shop, eat and play local right here in our own back yard! Browse through our February issue and check out what your best option might be. Maybe a romantic dinner for two or an evening theater show or maybe you just want to surprise that special someone with jewelry or a tasty treat. Just remember our local businesses and show them some Valentine’s LOVE too! Expect More, Get More, We Deliver. Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor

12th Annual Ribs On The Ridge

18 36th Annual Lake Wales Mardi Gras

EDITOR’S NOTE

TRACEY GREENE JAMES COULTER

ERICA SMITH

EDITORIAL ERICA SMITH ELIZABETH MORRISEY

AMY SUMERLIN JAMES COULTER

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS

Cupid Approved Valentine's Ideas

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.

Happy Valentine's Day

FEBRUARY 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.

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Haines City Hosts 12th Annual

aines City’s 12th annual Ribs on the Ridge BBQ competition presented by Haines City Parks and Recreation & Miracle Toyota is back and has some awesome things in store for Polk County! The event is February 21, 2020, from 5 PM to 9 PM and February 22, 2020, from 10 AM to 5 PM, and is FREE and open to the public. Held at the beautiful Lake Eva Park in Haines City, come out to enjoy BBQ, crafts vendors, and live entertainment. Attendees of Ribs on the Ridge can expect to over-indulge in tasting endless varieties of BBQ after purchasing “Rib Bucks,” dollar for dollar. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. The Florida BBQ Association sanctioned event will serve as a qualifier for the Jack Daniels Invitational and American Royal. Ribs on the Ridge draws barbecue

teams from across Florida and the nation where professional and amateur teams compete for cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights. Professional and “Backyard” teams from across Florida and other states will compete for $11,000 in cash prizes, trophies and bragging rights to the best BBQ in town. Prizes will be awarded in categories for chicken, pork, ribs, brisket and an overall Grand Champion winner. The event will also host a dessert competition. Musical acts are featured on our main stage throughout the day and include national recording artists Sister Hazel and other local bands. This year's event will also benefit KidsPACK, an organization that feeds children in Polk County. ENTERTAINMENT HEADLINER: We are proud to announce the En-

tertainment Headliner for Friday night, February 21, 2020, is platinum-selling alternative rock group Sister Hazel! The band will kick-off the event on the main stage at approximately 7:00 PM. You may remember Sister Hazel from their song "All for You," which topped the adult alternative charts during the summer of 1997, and the success propelled their album to platinum status. Originating from Gainesville, FL, Sister Hazel is comprised of five gifted, seasoned musicians whose well-spring of natural talent has been called "one of the Top 100 Most Influential Independent Performers of the last 15 years" by Performing Songwriter Magazine. For more information about the event, contact the Haines City Parks and Recreations Department at (863) 421-3700.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!

FEBRUARY 2020 7

TO PERFORM AT RIBS ON THE RIDGE

riginating from Gainesville, FL, Sister Hazel is comprised of five gifted, seasoned musicians whose well-spring of natural talent has been called "one of the Top 100 Most Influential Independent Performers of the last 15 years" by Performing Songwriter Magazine. Song "All for

FEBRUARY 2020

You" topped the adult alternative charts during the summer of 1997 and the success propelled their album to platinum status. In their first showing on the country music charts they made a strong debut with “Lighter In The Dark” at #4 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, #6 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart, #30 on Billboard's Top Current Albums chart and #79 on the Billboard 200 album chart. The band landed on Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart again in 2018 and 2019 with the Volumes I, II, and III of a collectible compilation series titled “Elements.” In February

2018, “Water,” landed on the Billboard Country Albums chart at #9 and at #2 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart along with making their debut on the most revered stage in country music, the Grand Ole Opry. In September of 2018, “Wind” landed at #1 on iTunes country page and #11 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart. In February 2019, Vol. III “Fire” landed at #5 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart and #46 Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart. The collectible compilation series will end with “Earth” to be released in September 2019. Living up to their fan-centered reputation, the band hosts annual events like “Hazelnut Hang,” that focuses on fan involvement and was a pioneer in themed cruise experiences by co-founding “The Rock Boat,” a cruise featuring nonstop opportunities for fan/artist interaction. Sister Hazel has been equally attentive to connecting with their audience through social media. They have since made their Grand Ole Opry debut and shared the stages with country music superstars at The C MA Festival, Tortuga Music Festival, among others. In addition to the events and touring, the band also gives back with “Lyrics For Life.” Founded by singer Ken Block and the Band, the charity unites musicians and celebrities for concerts and auctions to benefit cancer research and patient-care charities.

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King Features Weekly Service

September 7, 2015

Then simply hang it to distribute

the scent. You can hang it from a light bulb or even in front of the air handler for your air conditioning or heating intake. • “When moving, use foam plates Before removing a splinter, as • separators for your dinner plates. Use kitchen towels to wrap ice the area. There will beserving less platters. If you have a box that sepafussing, and a wooden splinter rates glasses, drop a spice jar into each glass. Use all the space, and you’ll might absorb some liquid, causing have fewer boxes to move.” — P.L. in itSouth to swell enough to pop out a bit Carolina more. • To remove stubborn hard-water deposits from a shower head (without removing it), use this trick: Add a cup plain white vinegar tocounter a zip• “Iofused the mileage per-top sandwich bag (or a larger bag in my car vinegar to come uplarger withshowseveral with added to fit erheads). Submerge the shower head 2-mile routes for walking. Now I in the vinegar and draw the plastic can vary myaround routine bag up tightly the and stem.be Useasa rubber band to secure the bag around sured that I’ve walked 2 miles, the shower head. Leave overnight. which my goal. I justtodrive Remove,isscrub and shower releasefrom the deposits. my house until I hit a mile on the • Borax can be used to keep sidetrip odometer, and then I walk walks free of weeds. Simply sprinkle a to that spot andsidewalk back.”and -- sweep I.L. in little Borax on the into the cracks. This is a very effective Nevada weed killer, but it also will kill your grass if you use too much, so keep it in the cracks only! • Use a tea infuser ball for aro• “Have a stripped screw? Place a matherapy. Apply wide rubber band over several the head drops and insert your drill. The rubber band fills of essential oils to a cotton ball and in the stripped spots and makes the place it inside theItinfuser basket. drill catch the screw. works most of the time.” — D.D. in Nebraska • “Make audio recordings or short videos of you reading your children’s favorite books, then play for them when you are busy doing housework, working or cooking.” — K.A. in Oregon • If you have a sticky zipper, try running a candle along the zipper face, then zipping it up and down a few times. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. Polk Senior Games is a non-profit, 2015 King Features Synd., Inc. 501(c) ©(3), corporation that presents an annual two-week series of Olympic-style sports and games for men and women 50 years of age and over. The Games begin on the last Saturday of February. The Games inspire an active lifestyle, combine an interest in sports and games with fun and fellowship, promote a positive image of seniors and recognize their efforts and achievements, and encourage volunteerism. The Games attract nearly 2,500 men and women with a variety of skills - the serious competitor, the fun at heart, the seasoned athlete, the late bloomer, and the physically challenged. 99 competitive events are offered in 36 sports and games: Archery, Bag Toss, Basketball Shooting, Basketball 3 on 3, Billiards, Bocce, Bowling, Bridge, Checkers, Chess, Cribbage, Dancing, Darts, Euchre, Field Events, Fishing, Golf 18 Hole and Putt &

• “If you’re looking to give yourself a bit of traction on icy sidewalks, be careful what you use. While kitty litter is a much-recommended solution, when it melts, you’re left with a slippery pile of clay. Salt can deice a sidewalk, but it definitely will kill plants, so be precise, and don’t use too much of either. I carry a baggie of sand in my bag and keep a small bucket for the steps. It’s not perfect, but it works.” -- T. in Pennsylvania • “The knob came off my pot lid because it cracked. I grabbed a wine cork and threaded it on the screw. It stays in place and is never hot when I need to remove the top. Plus it looks cute.” -- E.T. in Alabama

COMMUNITY SNIPPETS

Polk Senior Games Return

Chip, Horseshoes, Lawn Bowling, Pepper, Pickleball, Punt Pass Kick, Racquetball, Road Race 5K, Scrabble, Senior Smarts, Pistol Shooting, Rifle Shooting, Skeet Shooting, Sporting Clays, Trap Shooting, Shuffleboard, Softball, Sudoku, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track, and Walking. Gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded in each event and age division. Events are held at various locations throughout Polk County. Registration begins the first week of January. The individual entry fee is $10 for the first event and $3 for each additional event up to a maximum of $28. Fees for team sports are $150 for Softball, $50 for Basketball 3 on 3, and $36 for Bowling. There are also facility fees for a few events - $25 for Golf Singles, $25 for Golf Mixed Doubles, $6 for Bowling, $10 for Archery and $10-25 for Shooting events. Everyone receives a specially designed T-shirt. A free Closing Celebration for participants, family and friends is includes goody bags, health fair, special awards, door prizes and entertainment. More info at polkseniorgames.org.

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We Don't Need Another War As I pen this column, more than a week has passed since Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, a key Iranian military leader, was killed in a U.S. airstrike ordered by President Trump. This strike was allegedly carried out without “authorization for use of military force” from Congress, according to Speaker Pelosi. That makes the order for the airstrike unconstitutional. Several days have passed since Trump wrote a tweet, bragging how 52 Iranian cultural sites were targeted for potential attacks, insisting how “those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD.” The targeting of cultural properties violates the 1954 Hague Convention. That makes those proposed attacks war crimes. A few days have passed since Iran retaliated, with two U.S. military bases attacked by nearly a dozen Iranian missiles. As of this writing, what will result from these attacks remains unknown. By the time this column is published, we could have either entered into war with Iran, or, through some miracle, de-escalated military tensions. (I’m not holding my breath for that!) Whether hostilities rise or fall, I know one thing for certain: we don’t need another war! I admit I know nothing about foreign policy. In fact, I humbly admit I’m one of the 77% of Americans who can’t spot Iran on a map. However, unlike most other Americans, I’m not gung-ho for bombing a country I can’t even find! Even if I did know where Iran is, I also know we don’t need to go to war against it. Yes, I know Iran has done bad things. Yes, I know the guy we killed was a bad guy who did bad things. But that doesn’t mean we needed to make a “pre-emptive strike” against him and his country. Yes, Iran is a threat. So is North Korea. But nobody in their right mind is arguing we need to bomb

that country—because that would be insanely suicidal! We’re not the world police. We have been caught in the quagmire of the Middle East for far too long. We have been at war with Afghanistan for nearly two decades. The war has gone on for so long that young people who were born when it started are now old enough to enlist. Since then, we have engaged in military conflict with other countries. Do we really need to go to war with another? Apparently, we do! Our country recently approved two trillion dollars in military spending. Two trillion dollars! Do you even know how much one trillion is? If you spent one dollar every second, it would take you more than 31 thousand years to spend that much money, according to calculations by Data Genetics. Multiply that by two, and you have two trillion dollars! Two trillion dollars! On military spending! We are $21 trillion in debt. Yet we have enough money to spend two trillion more to fight more wars? If you’re a “fiscal conservative” who approves of that spending, I never want to hear you ask how we can afford free healthcare and education. No, we can’t afford any of that either, but we certainly can’t afford two trillion on military spending. Ironically enough, Trump once claimed in 2011 that Obama would start a war in Iran to get re-elected. Well, Obama never started a war in Iran, but Trump clearly wants to! Considering that he’s currently undergoing impeachment, and that he’s up for re-election this year— well, you put two-and-two together! Methinks someone’s trying to “wag the dog” here!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Info@todayandtonight.com FEBRUARY 2020 9

THURSDAY, FEB 20 TONY KNIGHT (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

FRIDAY, FEB 21

FEBRUARY CONCERT CALENDAR MONDAY, FEB 3

LUBECK (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

TUESDAY, FEB 4 LUBECK (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) SWAN CITY JAZZ (Union Hall, LKD) ROBBIE A. (Apple Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 5 LEE BRICE, CARLY PEARCE, ELI YOUNG BAND, MATT STELL (RP Funding Center, LKD) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) FIRE JASS TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH) ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

THURSDAY, FEB 6

TONY KNIGHT (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) THE TEXAS TENORS (RP Funding Center, LKD) JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD) THE BROTHERS FOUR & THE LIMELITERS (Ritz Theatre, WH) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

FRIDAY, FEB 7

THE BROKE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ALMOST THERE (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) MAD STRINGERS (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) SPF 60/RUMOR HAZIT (Leo’s Live, LKD) BEN MEYER, KITCHEN KILLAZ, THE BLACK HONKEYS (Smoke on the Water, WH) MUSTANG SALLY & THE HAMJOS (Central Park, WH) PAUL & LEVA CATALDO (Grove Roots Brew, WH) GEORGE GROSMAN TRIO (Tempo 1930, WH) ICONIC OPERA (Gator Mack’s/Camp Mack, LW)

FEBRUARY 2020

GEORGE MORRIS AND THE LARIAT BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) SPITFIRE (Apple Lounge, WH) LKHD (The Poor Porker, LKD) BILLY DICKERSON (Federal Bar, LKD) DEAN JOHANSEN (Fresco’s, LKD) THEO MOON (1845 Taphouse, DVNPT) BILLY JOEL (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, FEB 8

KAT & THE DAWGS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) WONDERLAND (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) ELECTRIC HAZE (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) BEN MEYER, KITCHEN KILLAZ, BULLY FOR YOU, JUSTIN GRIMES BAND, RUSTY WRIGHT BAND (Smoke on the Water, WH) ACOUSTIC DOSE (Grove Roots Brew, WH) KAI7EN (Leo’s Live, LKD) GRATEFUL ALIVE (Florida Brewery, ADL) THE CADILLAC COWBOYS (Swan Brewing, LKD) GREENHOUSE AFFECT (Federal Bar, LKD) POWER SURGE (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) PLUM CRAZY (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

LUBECK (Apple Lounge, WH) GLENN JOHNSON AND CAL LANE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) SWAN CITY JAZZ (Union Hall, LKD) ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 12 TWO SMOOTH (American Legion #8, WH) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) FIRE JASS TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH)

THURSDAY, FEB 13

RENDITION (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) TRACY BYRD wsg ELI MOSLEY (RP Funding Center, LKD) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

FRIDAY, FEB 14

ADRIENNE & TOMMY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) LUBECK (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) FOLEY & BURNS (Sunset Tavern, HC) JOHN FRINZI (Grove Roots Brew, WH) STEAMIN’ TRIO (Swan Brewing, LKD) ROSE N THORNE (Federal Bar, LKD) DAN CERAVOLO (Fireside Lounge, DVPT)

BLAKE FREE (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) BLUE COLLAR BAND (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) TWO SMOOTH (The Hamptons, LKD) THE BROKE (Grove Roots Brew, WH) KOLT 45 (Apple Lounge, WH) AGGIE ROAD (Federal Bar, LKD) SPIN-LOK (Ybor Lounge, LKD) FAT FRANK AND THE PLANKSPANKERS (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) DANNY BROOKS & LIL MISS DEBI (Swan Brewing, LKD) RAMBLING ROSE TRIO (P & J Recreation, FSTPF) ISO: SALUT D’AMOR (Polk Theatre, LKD) JESSICA DELACRUZ (1845 Taphouse, DVNPT) PRASIE IN THE PARK (Central Park, WH) ANDREA BOCELLI (Amalie Arena, TMP)

TUESDAY, FEB 11

SATURDAY, FEB 15

SUNDAY, FEB 9

RANDY GOIN (Out-n-About Bar, DUN)

AGGIE ROAD (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH)

FREE AGENT (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) JUSTIN GRIMES (Grove Roots Brew, WH) B. HAVEN (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) DAMON FOWLER (Union Hall, LKD) SKIP & NANCY FRYE (Federal Bar, LKD) HARLEQUIN (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) BLIND SIGHTED (Ybor Lounge, LKD) SIRSY (Swan Brewing, LKD) DREW LEBLANC (Florida Brewery, ADL) ANISETTE MEYER (Pink Piano, LKD) SWEENEY FAMILY BAND (Ritz Theatre, WH)

SUNDAY, FEB 16

GRATEFUL ALIVE (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) ALMOST THERE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) LAURIE & RUSTY WRIGHT (Sunset Tavern, HC) DREW WILLIAMS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) DAN CERAVOLO (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) ELIZABETH COOK & GRAVY (Derry Down, WH)

MONDAY, FEB 17

ABBA MANIA (RP Funding Center, LKD)

TUESDAY, FEB 18 MICKENZIE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) SWAN CITY JAZZ (Union Hall, LKD) ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 19 JERSEY BOYS (RP Funding Center, LKD) ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) FIRE JASS TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH)

BILL ENGVALL (Alan Jay W. CTR, AV PK) MICAH (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) BLUE ROOSTERS 9p (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) BLUE ROOSTERS, THE BROKE, B. HAVEN (Lk Wales Mardi Gras, LW) WONDERLAND (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) RED HOT ROOSTERS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) ICONIC OPERA (Swan Brewing, LKD) GEORGE MORRIS AND THE LARIAT BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) THE BLACK HONKEYS (Union Hall, LKD) SIGHD EFFEX (Apple Lounge, WH) THE DETECTIVES (Federal Bar, LKD) THE HENLEYS, PHYSED, CMPNY OF ANMLS (LKLD Live, LKD) DESTINY/STRAIGHTJACKET SMILE (Ybor Lounge, LKD) BETH MCKEE & STEVE FORBERT (Derry Down, WH) STEVE HOGIE BAND (1845 Taphouse, DVNPT) DULCIMER (Central Park, WH)

SATURDAY, FEB 22

JOSH BLEVINS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) STEAMIN’ TRIO (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) THE BROKE (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) BLIND AMBITION (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) PLAN B (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) VINNIE & MIKEY, MRS. MURPHY’S CHOWDER, AUTUMN BROWN BAND, BLAKE FREE BAND, DAVID OLIVER WILLIS, ALMOST THERE, JILL’S CASHBOX (Lk Wales Mardi Gras, LW) JUSTIN GRIMES, FREE WHISKEY BAND, HUNTER SMITH BAND (Eggfest/Boys Girls Club, WH) TREVOR BYSTROM (Grove Roots Brew, WH) HARRIS-BARONE JAZZ (Fire Restaurant, WH) GRATEFUL ALIVE (Lk Alfred Heritage Fest , LA) 10,000 PAPERCUT (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH)

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STONEGREY (Union Hall, LKD) THE FREAKIN HOOLIGANS (Brew Hub, LKD) STEEL RIDGE BAND (Federal Bar, LKD) FREE AGENT (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) RUNNING RECKLESS (Ybor Lounge, LKD) BLUE COLLAR BAND (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) 2PM (Swan Brewing, LKD) CERULEAN SONGBIRD (Pink Piano, LKD)

SUNDAY, FEB 23

FREE WHISKEY TRIO (Old Man Frank’s, WH) KAT ACOUSTIC (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) BLAKE FREE BAND (Sunset Tavern, HC) RYAN LEAR (Grove Roots Brew, WH) WONDERLAND (Caribbean Bay, WH) DAN CERAVOLO (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) BILLY DICKERSON (Yard on Mass, LKD) SHANE MEADE & THE SOUND (Brew Hub, LKD)

MONDAY, FEB 24 LUBECK (Gary’s Grove, WH)

TUESDAY, FEB 25 RANDY GOIN (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) LUBECK (Apple Lounge, WH) SWAN CITY JAZZ (Union Hall, LKD) ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) THE BROKE DUO (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) TIME SAWYER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 26 TWO SMOOTH (American Legion #8, WH) THE MASONS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) FIRE JASS TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH)

THURSDAY, FEB 27 CELTIC WOMAN (RP Funding Center, LKD) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JIMMY STURR 10:30a, OAKRIDGE BOYS 3:30p,

SKINNY MCGEE & HIS MAYHEM MAKERS RASCAL FLATTS 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

FRIDAY, FEB 28

KOLT 45 (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) T MIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots Brew, WH) JIM T (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) ICONIC OPERA (Gator Mack’s/Camp Mack, HC) GEORGE MORRIS AND THE LARIAT BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) SELWYN BIRCHWOOD (Union Hall, LKD) SOUTHBOUND (Apple Lounge, WH) AV PROJECT (Federal Bar, LKD) POWER SURGE/ APRIL RED (Ybor Lounge, LKD) RICO MONACO BAND wsg TITO PUENTE JR (Sun ‘n Fun Expo, LKD) JUG BROTHER’S BAND (Central Park, WH) DOUG BURNS, TOMMY JAMES & THE SHONDELLS 3:30p, MICHAEL RAY 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

SATURDAY, FEB 29 SOUTHERN BLEND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ADRIENNE & THE HEY HOW YOU DOIN’ (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH)

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B & R MUSIC (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) POWER SURGE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) WONDERLAND (Fireside lounge, DVPT) SPF 60 (Grove Roots Brew, WH) HARRIS-BARONE JAZZ (Tempo 1930, WH) PALEFACE (Swan Brewing, LKD) FIRE LIGHT (Union Hall, LKD) ROB DEMORROW (Brew Hub, LKD) JOSH BLEVINS/ BULLY FOR YOU (Ybor Lounge, LKD) RICO MONACO BAND wsg TITO PUENTE JR (Sun ‘n Fun Expo, LKD) ALTER EAGLES TRIBUTE BAND (Ritz Theatre, WH) SOUL CIRCUS COWBOYS, ROOTS & BOOTS: AARON TIPPIN, SAMMY KERSHAW & COLLIN RAYE 3:30p, 98 DEGREES 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

SUNDAY, MAR 1

FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) DREW WILLIAMS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) THE HOUSE CATS (Federal Bar, LKD) DAN CERAVOLO (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) RICO MONACO BAND wsg AUDIO EXCHANGE (Sun ‘n Fun Expo, LKD)

BOBBY BONES & THE RAGING IDIOTS 3:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

MONDAY, MAR 2

NEAL MCCOY 3:30p, PATTI LABELLE 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

TUESDAY, MAR 3 LUBECK (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) MARTIN AND KELLY, SARA EVANS 3:30p, SKILLET 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

WEDNESDAY, MAR 4 US NAVY BAND & SEA CHANTERS (RP Funding Center, LKD) CHUBBY CHECKER & THE WILDCATS 3:30p, JOSH TURNER 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

THURSDAY, MAR 5

NELSON BROTHERS 10:30a, FRANKIE AVALON, FABIAN, BOBBY RYDELL 3:30p, MERCYME 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

FRIDAY, MAR 6

JOE REID (Out-n-About Bar, DUN)

HUNTER SMITH (Grove Roots Brew, WH) CELTRIC STRING ALONG (Central Park, WH) JIMMY FORTUNE AND DAILEY & VINCENT 3:30p, DARCI LYNNE & CO 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

SATURDAY, MAR 7

JADE & DUKE (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) WONDERLAND (WH’s Bar Off The Chain, WH) LAURIE & RUSTY WRIGHT (Grove Roots Brew, WH) REVEL IN THE VIEW & LADY MOONBEAM (Union Hall, LKD) HARLEQUIN (Ybor Lounge, LKD) CHARLIE WILSON 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

SUNDAY, MAR 8

FOY ELLERBE (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) JOHN FRINZI (Grove Roots Brew, WH) DAN CERAVOLO (Fireside Lounge, DVPT) ELI YOUNG BAND 3:30p, LYNYRD SKYNYRD 7:30p (Strawberry Fest, P CTY)

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. FEBRUARY 2020 11

SNAPSHOTZ Call your favorite bar For more information!

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 Feb 15, Chili Cook Off

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 The Wine Stable 150 S. Broadway (863) 533-9463 Full Bar Live Music

DAVENPORT Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350 Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps

FEBRUARY 2020

Presented By Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 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 .50 w/purchase 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

HAINES CITY Amos Tavern 200 US Highway 17 92 N (863) 422-1459 Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Blvd (863) 588-3097 Open to the Public! Patio Dining & Full Bar Daily Food & Drink Specials Locals Food Discount! Sat, Live Music on Patio 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! Thur & Sun, Live Music 3p Feb 14, Vday Party 6p Feb 21, Karaoke Contest 5:30p

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 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

— Continued Page 15 FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

by James Coulter When most people think of barbecue, they imagine ribs and brisket. The Chain Of Lakes Eggfest offers all that and so much more. The annual grilling event offers a diverse selection of “elevated dishes” ranging from crab quiches to barbecue pizzas and “briskets and gravy.” All of these items are prepared on Big Green Egg grills, special outdoor ceramic cookers designed to provide the optimal heat for grilling. Such ideal temperature and cooking conditions allow the grill to cook a variety of food, all of which are showcased at the annual event. For the past three years, Eggfest has drawn in nearly 100 teams from across the state and even

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country to serve their best dishes prepared with Big Green Eggs. Many of these teams come from as far as across the country from states like California and Missouri. Hosted at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County in Winter Haven, the event also serves as a fundraiser for two local organizations: The Boys and Girls Club, which offers after-school programs to local children, and Girls Inc. of Winter Haven, which offers training and empowerment to local girls. With so much food being prepared, served, and eaten for a great cause, the event has experience immense success since it first started three years ago. Part of that success has been attributed to the lively community surrounding Big Green Eggs

products, explained BJ Mannix, the event’s head organizer. “It is amazing how far these people will travel across the state to come to an event like this and support us,” he said. “It is a way to promote the product. To promote [our grills], and to raise money for two great local organizations.” Mannix Pools and Grills has been in business since 1999. The owner, BJ Mannix, started working in the pool industry in 1992. What started as a parttime job soon became a full-time position, and he decided to use the experience he gained to start his own business. For the past two decades, Mannix Pools and Grills has been offering weekly pool services, as well as other services including cleaning repairs, equipment installation, and pool repaving and repairs. Soon, his business expanded to selling grills and grilling accessories and other items such as rubs and sauces. By far, their main sell has been the Big Green

FEBRUARY 2020 13

Egg, special cookers that provides “a simple yet highly-efficient blend of ancient tradition, modern technology and unmatched quality” to cook, grill, and roast various food items. Its special design and material allows the charcoal to reach optimal temperature, ensuring that any food that you want to cook on it, from steaks to pizzas, is cooked just right with the right amount of heat. Best of all, “the ceramic surface doesn’t get as hot as a metal grill”, and its heat source is provided by a ceramic fire box within, making the grill “extremely safe” to use, according to its website. “The Big Green Egg reaches perfect cooking temperature and is ready to use in just minutes,” its website states. “You have total control over temperature at your fingertips, maintaining accuracy within a few degrees!” Mannix was inspired to start selling grills such as the Big Green Egg around the same time he became interested in constructing outdoor kitchens. He believed that such amenities would perfectly accentuate backyard pools, so selling both seemed the most logical fit. He owns a Big Green Egg grill himself. He enjoys how it provides the best temperature and heat to cook any meal that he wants, making him feel like a real chef. “Mostly I appreciate is the versatility of it,” he said. “There is nothing that you cannot cook on a Big Green Egg. The food is phenomenal, the grill is extremely efficient...The food now is so much better, I learned to cook food to temperature not necessarily to time, and it is a great conversation piece when they have never seen you cook on one. It is a lot of fun.” His business has been selling Big Green Eggs for the past four years. Every year sees more and more of the

FEBRUARY 2020

grills sold, as more and more people learn of its versatility and overall ease of use. Best of all, each grill comes with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that customers receive the most reliable product for their money, he said. “There [are] still so many people who have never even heard of the Big Green Egg, so there is a learning experience there or an educational experience to teach people there,” he said. “A lot of people balk at the price, but it has a true lifetime warranty. So really it is basically the last grill you will ever buy.” For the past three years, these special grills have been showcased, allowing visitors to see, smell, and taste firsthand the different kinds of food they are capable of preparing. The event is one of several hosted across the state, with at least ten events statewide when first started. Since then, its attendance and outreach has expanded, Mannix said. For $25 at the gate, attendees can taste anything and everything being served, with the only other additional costs being drink passes. Otherwise, they can enjoy as much food, live music, and fun, and all for two great local causes. “This is just a [great] festival that displays unbelievable types of food, and it is all cooked on the big Green Egg,” Mannix said. “We hope to make it better than last year, that is our only goal, for each year to grow and to get the community more involved and raise more money.” The Third Annual Chain of Lakes EGGfest will be held on Feb. 22 from 10am to 3pm The event will be hosted at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County, located at 2400 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881. For more information, visit their website at: chainoflakeseggfest.com

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SNAPSHOTZ 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

Just Larry’s Bar & Grill 3415 E County Rd 542 (863) 666-6898 Open Daily Sports Bar Lunch & Dinner

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SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

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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 Even Par Sports Bar Oak Plaza North 5100 US Hwy 98 N (863) 816-7995 Happy Hr 4-6p Daily Sports Packages $12 Buckets 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 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

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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 Masons Live 5501 S. Florida Ave (863) 333-0096 Tue, Trivia 7p Wed, S.I.N./Karaoke/DJ Thu, Ladies Night w/$1 Drinks Sat, Bands/DJ,/Dance Huge Outside Patio 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 Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri

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

The Pink Piano 1015 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs

Revival Bar 119 S Kentucky Ave (863) 606-6090 Open 12p Daily/Smoke-Free Craft Cocktail Bar Vintage Cocktails, Beers Relaxed Seating Areas

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

Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S. Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor

The Good Spot 3825 N. Scenic Hwy (863) 949-4243 Sat, Ladies Night 7p-cl Sun, Karaoke 3p Darts, Pool Table

— Continued Page 16 FEBRUARY 2020 15

SNAPSHOTZ JayBees Rest. & Lounge 8625 Hwy 60 E (863) 696-1901 Full Liquor Lunch & Dinner Open Mon-Sat Liar’s Lair Saloon Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Fri, Karaoke 8p Live Music 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 Smoke-Free Full Menu/Full Bar 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 Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free Food Truck & Live Music Wed-Fri 4p, Sat-Sun 12p 2nd Wed, Moonlight Mrkt 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 Smoke-Free Outdoor Patio Thu, Live Music

Jessie’s Lounge 118 3rd Street SW (863) 298-9815 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd Mon, Free Pool Wed, Big Ass Jam Night (863) 293-9464 Live Music Weekly Full Liquor Sports Pub Smoke-Free 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special

FEBRUARY 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 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

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FEBRUARY 2020 17

Lineup FRIDAY

Blue Rooster The Broke B. Haven

SATURDAY

Vinnie & Mikey Mrs. Murphy’s Chowder Autumn Brown Band Blake Free Band David Oliver Willis Almost There Jill’s Cashbox

PA R A D E • L I V E M U S I C • F OO D T R U C K S • C H I L D R E N ’ S A C T I V I T I E S • 5 K G L O W R U N

FEBRUARY 2020

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ake Wales Mardi Gras is back for its 36th annual family-friendly celebration on February 21st and 22nd, 2020. Since 1984, the annual Mardi Gras parade and festival has entertained thousands of residents and visitors in Lake Wales with floats, beads, live music, food and spirits. Lake Wales Mardi Gras draws estimated crowds of 20,000 people to Lake Wales over the 2-day event and is one of the largest events of its kind outside of New Orleans! Lake Wales Mardi Gras prides itself on giving back to the community and this year a large portion of all proceeds will be donated to Victory Ridge Academy, a school dedicated to serving special needs children. The event kicks off Friday evening at 6 p.m. for the Annual 5K Glow Run around the beautiful Shores of Lake Wailes and along the Rails to Trails community path. The Mardi Gras festival also begins Friday

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evening at 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. with live music, children’s activities, local food vendors as well as beer and wine sales. The Festival takes place at the picturesque Lake Wailes Park, on the shores of Lake Wailes. The festivities pick back up on Saturday at 11 a.m. -11 p.m. at Lake Wales Park with more live music, food, and activities for the entire family. The Mardi Gras parade begins at 3 p.m. in the Historic Downtown District of Lake Wales and winds its way through the streets and down Central Ave. to it’s dramatic close at Lake Wailes Park. The parade boasts dozens of floats from local Mardi Gras Krewes, media personalities, County Commissioners and the Polk County Sheriff Dept. including Sheriff Grady Judd. Saturday night will conclude with a paramotor display by Aviator PPG followed by a performance by, Polk County’s own, Jill’s Cashbox.

TO SIGN UP VISIT: https://bit.ly/2QTi0ww

Kid’s Zone

Snow Cones • Ice Cream Sand Art • Face Painting Bounce Houses

For more information visit

www.lwmardigras.com

FEBRUARY 2020 19

FEBRUARY 2020

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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

Definition “There is no time for cut-anddried monotony. There is time for work. And time for love. That leaves no other time.” ― Coco Chanel 1. What did fans throw at the Beatles during their first U.S. concert? 2. When the Doors were on “The Ed Sullivan Show” in 1967, they were asked to change the lyrics to which song? 3. How much more money does the operator want each time in “Sylvia’s Mother”? 4. Who released “The One Who Really Loves You”? 5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “She tunes in to Bandstand every day to watch the kids dancin’ ‘cross the USA.”

of soft jelly babies. The Beatles were on a round stage with no place to hide from the stinging barrage of hard jelly beans. 2. “Light My Fire.” But they didn’t, claiming they forgot. (The Rolling Stones also caused the show problems with their questionable lyrics.) 3. The operator keeps wanting “Forty cents more for the next three minutes.” 4. Mary Wells, in 1962. 5. “Queen of the Hop,” by Bobby Darin in 1958. Although written long ago, the song hasn’t been forgotten. It was used on the soundtrack to the “Porky’s Revenge” film in 1985 and Shakin’ Stevens’ 1987 “16 Rock ‘n’ Roll Greats.”

1. What do The Average White Band, Bay City Rollers and Simple Minds have in common? 2. Name the 1927 song that Elvis Presley released in 1960 that went to No. 1 for six weeks. 3. How long was the single “Yesterday Once More”? 4. What instrument did Marv Tarplin COMMUNITY SNIPPETS play, and in which group? where each team will travel to 5. Name songApple that contains this the starting hole they are assigned. Putt Puttthe Pub there teams rotate to the next lyric: “So long boy,From you can take my bar in order until all holes have been Putt Putt Pub Tournament is a played. Scoring will be done in a best miniature golf bar crawl my in Winterpapers, place, got I’ve got my hole fashion with Mulligans availHaven, Florida, benefiting the Women's Resource Center. Nine local able for purchase. There will be cash pay, So pack my bags and bewithon prizes and a prizeI’ll for the bar bars will each host a different custom the best hole, voted by the teams. The made mini-golf hole. Teams of four my way ...” awards ceremony and after-party will will travel from location to location take place at The Apple, tentatively to play each hole receiving a complistarting at 5. There will be raffles, mentary beer at each bar (designated Answers awards, challenges, food, and music. drivers will receive a free soda). If And oh yeah! Just to make it more you do not have a designated drivfun, dressingin up isScotland. encouraged and 1. Theywill all originated er, transportation be available (preregistration is required). Play will we will have prizes for best dressed! March 21, 2020afrom 10:00amlist to The hasthe produced long begin withcountry a shotgun start from 5:00pm of excellent bands that often are mistaken as being from England. 2. “Are You Lonesome Tonight,” released after his military service was completed. The recording company didn’t really like it and thought it would go nowhere. 3. Very long. The 1973 “song” by EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER! Richard Carpenter and John Bettis ANSWERS 1. Jelly beans. The boys had made the mistake of saying they loved them. Unfortunately they meant the U.K. version

“Be steady and well-ordered in your life so that you can be fierce and original in your work.” ― Gustave Flaubert During a recent coaching session, I found the phrase, “but my work defines me,” stumbling out of my lips and falling hard onto the table in front of me. In that lonely conference room looking out over of the most beautiful gardens in the world, that phrase laid on the table like a miserable badge of dishonor. In 2020, your children, your church, your family, and heck even your pets are more acceptable definitions of personal worth than years of hard work. Between sharing my desire to be more organized and wanting to take more vacations, I found myself wondering when did it become so unpopular to be a hard worker? Why is loyalty so unrewarded? Why was I silently shouting at myself to take that phrase back? Can my work be enough? “All growth depends upon activity. There is no development physi-

cally or intellectually without effort, and effort means work.” – Calvin Coolidge

Please make no mistake about it, writing this column is work, and I am proud of the many words that I have shared over the years. Career, education, and carving out personal time is an incredible balancing act, and just the way I listed those endeavors should be a window into my thoughts. It is going to take a lot more coaching to change my mind. Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and give your whole heart and soul to it.” ― Buddha Eastern wisdom holds that your actions determine your life, and American convention puts stock in a hard day’s work earns your reward. This morning, I find my thoughts slipping between both of those ideas. While my work has defined much of my life, my complete definition is still a work in progress. Great journeys require much effort, and like all things in life, there is still work to be done. QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

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January 22, 2018

ONOMATOPOEIA

POLK COUNTY’S

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT To Have Your Restaurant Listed Please Email Info@todayandtonight.com

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

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.

FEBRUARY 2020

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

CHAMPINO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Authentic homemade Italian cooking. Fresh, made to order meals for lunch and dinner. Happy Hour is 7 days per week from 3pm-7pm. Catering and big parties available and welcomed. New York style pizza, calzones, desserts! Try our Eggplant Parm 6617 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 863-937-8866 www.champinos.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 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

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

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

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

ARABELLA’S

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

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

THE TWISTED PROP BAR & GRILLE

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 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

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

FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

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FEBRUARY 2020 23

Mayfair By-The-Lake

Bloomin’ Arts Festival March 7 & 8, 10am – 4pm 100 E Main St , Bartow, FL bartowartguild.com

From vintage cars to modern art, whatever appeals to your senses the most, you can find at the annual two-day festival in Historic Downtown Bartow. Peruse the streets and several city blocks worth of art of all kinds and types, from traditional paintings to restored violins. For nearly 50 years, the Bartow Art Guild has been hosting this

by James Coulter Spring is around the corner. Soon the trees will be blooming, the birds will be chirping, and people will be flocking outside to enjoy the beautiful weather. It’s the perfect time of year to appreciate the outdoors, and with it, local art. Here are a few local art festivals happening this spring:

Lake Wales Arts Festival & ART-B-Que

Feb. 28 – March 1 N Lakeshore Blvd, Lake Wales, FL lakewalesartscouncil.org Do you love art? Do you love barbecue? Do you want to have both? At the Citizens Bank & Trust Lake Wales Arts Festival, you can! This annual outdoor art festival kicks off its two-day 24

FEBRUARY 2020

annual tradition, brining hundreds of attendees and artists from across the county and state to Downtown Bartow. The Greater Bartow Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Bartow have also been overseeing the show, ensuring that the event benefits everyone involved, including local businesses. Hosted on the first weekend of March, Bartow’s premier art event (originally called the Spring Art Festival) judges hundreds of patrons during its juried art competition, offering more than $12,000 in awards in nearly a

festivities with a barbecue party, allowing attendees to enjoy good cooking and good art. The Lake Wales Arts Festival has maintained a long-standing tradition of drawing in artists and art lovers from across Central Florida to congregate with the natural beauty of Lake Wailes Park. For nearly 50 years, this outdoor art festival has been hosted by Lake Wales Arts Council, and has recently been sponsored by Citizens Bank and Trust. More than 100 participants from across the state and even the country have the opportunity to have their artwork professionally judged in eight categories and win more than $22,000 in awards. The annual ART-B-Que Kickoff Party will be hosted Feb. 28 from 6pm - 9:00pm The remainder of the festival will commence for the next two days from Feb 29 & Mar. 1. FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

dozen categories ranging from painting and glass to leather and ceramics. Aside from the myriad of art and artists, the festival also hosts the annual Victory Lane Car Show, with several dozen vintage cars. Other activities include the Bloomin’ Bike Ride, student art show, and flower show. Come and enjoy a free day of art, cars, and live music.

Central Park Art Fest

March 21 & 22, 10am ‑ 5pm 41 5th St NW, Winter Haven, FL ridgeart.org For more than 40 years, the Central Park Art Fest has allowed the Winter Haven community to flourish with arts and crafts, with hundreds of artists gathering from across the county, state, and even across the country to showcase their artwork. Located within Central Park, the festival is hosted within the heart of Downtown Winter Haven, allowing for easy access to surrounding stores, eateries, and other businesses. When not enjoying the art, feel free to enjoy refreshments and other amenities as offers by local food trucks and vendors such as the Laughing Crab and Tallulah’s Table by the Sea. Hosted by the The Ridge Art Association, and presented in part by Victor Smith Law Group, the annual two-day outdoor art festival helps to further the non-profit organization’s mission to, according to its website, “educate and promote understanding of the Visual Arts and to sponsor cultural events within the community.”

Dixieland Spring Art Festival

April 18, 8am – 4pm Dixieland Mall Ln, Lakeland, FL historicdixieland.com Since its early days in the 1870s, the City of Lakeland has garnered a rich history and cultural heritage. Since 1980, the city’s historic preservation program has helped preserve the community’s most historic landmarks, including more than 1,600 buildings and 13 landmarks within seven historic districts, according to the city’s website.

Bloomin' Arts Festival

Mayfair By-The-Lake

One of those historic Districts is Dixieland, located along South Florida Avenue in Downtown Lakeland. The Dixieland Historic Neighborhood Association has been instrumental in helping protect and preserve this historic neighborhood. Part of their efforts include the annual Dixieland Spring Arts Fest. During this annual spring art festival, more than 50 local artists and congregate to showcase their artwork within a myriad of vari-

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ous mediums ranging from painting and sculpture to mixed media, glass, and even plants. The event is free to the public and includes other festivities such as live music and children’s activities.

Mayfaire-By-The-Lake May 9 & 10, 9am – 4pm 100 Lake Morton Dr , Lakeland,FL mayfairebythelake.org

Hosted on the scenic shores of Lake Morton in Downtown

Lakeland, Mayfaire-By-The-Lake has remained a longstanding Mother’s Day tradition as “one of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals”, according to its website. Each year, hundreds of artists gather along the shore. Hundreds more attendees congregate to view and buy their art. Mayfaire started in 1971 as a small crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library. Since then, it has moved to its current location at Lake Morton, and grown “into one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida”, its website states. Not only does Mayfaire provide local artists a venue to showcase their talent, but it also supports up-and-coming art students by donating its proceeds towards art scholarships provided by the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College. The event draws in nearly 70,000 visitors per year, its website states. For nearly 50 years, Mayfaire has grown in prestige, receiving many awards and accolades. Last year, the festival has be ranked by Sunshine Magazine as the 36th of the “200 Best Art Shows.” FEBRUARY 2020 25

FEBRUARY 2020

C A L E N D A R Get Your Listing in the Calendar

Email Listings to: tracey@todayandtonight.com Info must be received by the 23rd of the Month Prior to Publication. Events will be included as space allows.

Arts, Crafts, Festivals & Expos

FEB 1

to MAR 14 – Spirited: Prohibition in America. The Lake Wales History Museum presents a blockbuster traveling exhibit by The National Constitution Center. Adapted from the National Constitution Center’s flagship exhibition, American Spirits, the exhibition Spirited: Prohibition in America explores the history of Prohibition, from the dawn of the temperance movement to the unprecedented repeal of a constitutional amendment in 1933. What made the country go “dry” and how did America change during this period in history. Visitors to Spirited will learn about the amendment process, the role of liquor in American culture, the cultural revolution of the roaring ‘20s, and how current liquor laws vary from state to state today. Located Lk Wales History Museum, 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lk Wales. Tues-Sat, 9-5 pm. Free admission.

FEB 6

– After Hours at the Museum. The first Thursday of each month Polk Museum of Art is open until 8 pm. Enjoy the Curator Tour at 6 pm. Thurs, 5-8 pm. Located Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College, 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland. PolkMuseumofArt.org

FEB 7

– First Friday: Mardi Gras in Munn Park. Join us a new First Friday theme--Mardi Gras in Munn Park-sponsored by Catholic Charities, Polk County Ministries. Enjoy food, drinks, beads, and more! Located Downtown Lakeland, Munn Park. Fri, 6-9 pm. Want to reserve a space in Munn Park for your “krewe” and help “bead the crowd?” Contact Renee at 407-451-5315 or email Renee. Baker@cflcc.org

FEB 7

& 8 – Smoke on the Water BBQ Festival. Annual Budweiser Smoke on the Water BBQ & Music Festival is Florida BBQ Association’s State Championship. Funds raised benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County. More than 80 teams from across the country will compete for the Florida State Grand Champion title. Unique entertainment includes live music and a Cypress Water Sports Ski Show on beautiful Lake Cannon. The festivities kick off at Fri night from 5:30-11 pm with food vendors, live music and fireworks. Cost is $10. Sat the event runs from 10-5 pm. Cost is $2; 12 & under are free. $5 Premier parking. www.bgcpolk.org

FEBRUARY 2020

FEB 8

– Florida Frag Swap. A saltwater show; coral, fishes, goods and equipment. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 11-5 pm. Cost – Adults $10. Local Reef/Aquarium Society Member $5. Kids 12 & under free.

FEB 8

– Mulberry’s Founders Day 2020. Hosted by the City of Mulberry. Celebrating 119 years! Enjoy the city’s biggest party of family-fun festivities. Located in Centennial Park & Butterfly Garden, Mulberry. Sat, 11-2 pm. Check out their FB page for more details.

FEB 13

- Lakeland Food Truck Rally. Presented by Downtown Lakeland. 20+ food trucks line up around Munn Park to sell their unique cuisine every second Thursday, 6-9 pm. Located downtown Lakeland, 201 E. Main Street.

FEB 14

– Wright After Dark Tour. Florida Southern College will host Wright After Dark Tour on the 2nd Friday of each month. Experience the treasured buildings of Frank Lloyd Wright like never before. Discover the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world when you visit Florida Southern College. The campus is home to 13 remarkable Wright structures, including the Usonian Faculty House and iconic Annie Pfeiffer Chapel. Located L.N. Pipkin Bandshell at Florida Southern College, 111 Lk Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland. Fri, 7-8:30 pm. Reservations are required. Please call (863) 680-4597.

FEB 14

& 15 – 2020 Grills Gone Wild BBQ Competition. Hosted by the City of Davenport. BBQ competition, Bay Street Classic Car Show, entertainment, food & more. Live music: Fri; Josh Blevins 5-9 pm. Sat; Nathan Baldwin Band 10-1 pm and The Broke 1-5 pm. Located W Market Street, Davenport. Fri, 5-9 pm and Sat, 10-5 pm.

FEB 14

to 17 – 2020 Strawberry Cluster Dog Show. See some of the cream of the crop at the AKC Strawberry Cluster in Lakeland. There will be four days of conformation and obedience competition indoors at the Sun n Fun Expo Campus. Conformation is where dogs run around a ring and stand for the judges who compare each dog to the breed standard – how close to perfect. Obedience is how well a dog does what it is told. Located Sun n Fun Expo, 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland. Free Admission, $5 parking. www. flysnf.org/strawberry-cluster-dog-show

and Tropiflora. Have the opportunity to purchase a variety of plants such as Bromeliads, Succulents, Caudiciforms, Ferns, Air Plants, Orchids and Myrmecophytes from Tropiflora’s eclectic inventory of exotic plants. If you’re looking for an unusual exotic plant from the jungle or even the desert, this event is for you. Located Hollis Garden, 702 E Orange St, Lakeland. Sat, 10-4 pm.

FEB 15

– History Center Architectural Tour. Tour offered on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Explore the Polk County History Center during a family friendly architectural tour and learn more about Neo-Classical architecture, the construction of the building and the stories behind the iconic Old Polk County Courthouse. Sat, 11-12 pm. Call (863) 534-4386 for more info.

FEB 15

– Black History Festival 2020. The City of Lakeland will join in celebrating Black History Month at the Coleman-Bush Building and Jackson Park for the Annual Black History Festival. Join the community for a day full of performances, food, and craft vendors. Coleman-Bush Building, 1104 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Lakeland. Sat, 9-4 pm. LakelandGov.net/ParkRec

FEB 17

– Chow Down in Lake Wales. Enjoy some of the best food trucks in Central Florida. Very meal freshly prepared and cooked to order. Bring your appetite, lawn chair and sit back and relax. The Chow Down Food Trucks are at Lake Wailes Park, 205 N 5th Street, Lake Wales on the 3rd Monday of the month from 5-9 pm.

FEB 20

– Life Expo for Boomers and Seniors. Featuring actor John Ratzenberger (Cliff from Cheers). Premier resource for all things important to seniors and baby boomers - health & wellness, health screenings, assisted living, real estate, travel, financial planning, shopping, food, entertainment, fitness and more. Located in the Exhibit Hall at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 9-2 pm. Free Admission, parking fees apply. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 21

- Main Street Bartow Friday Fest. A downtown street party, third Friday each month, featuring a live band, food & beverages, open car cruise-in, and activities for children. Different theme each month. Located E. Main Street, Bartow. Fri, 6-9 pm.

FEB 15

FEB 21

FEB 15

FEB 21

– SYFY Bartow 2020. Come celebrate a wizarding world, mythical monsters, Bigfoot, Loch Ness monster, dragons, unicorns anything that your mythical mind can imagine. Live music during the day, panel discussions, kids activities, thousands of costumes, hundreds of science fiction vendors, a science fiction themed car show, costume contest, steampunk alley, Jedi Knight training, food trucks and other surprises. Located 180 S Central Ave, Bartow. Sat, 11-6 pm. For more info: syfybartow@gmail.com – Cypress Gardens Ski Show. Free ski show 3rd Saturday of each month. Concessions available. Bring a blanket or chair for seating. Located MLK Jr Park, Lk Silver, Winter Haven, Sat at 5 pm. (holiday themed)

FEB 15

– 6th Annual Plantae Excoticum Botanical Plant Sale. Hosted by the City of Lakeland

& 22 – 12th Annual Ribs of the Ridge. This two day sanctioned event through the Florida BBQ Association will bring professional and backyard teams from across Florida and other states to compete for cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights to the best BBQ in town. Attendees of Ribs on the Ridge can expect to over-indulge in tasting endless varieties of BBQ, live entertainment, food vendors, beer and wine, and much more! This year’s music headliner is Sister Hazel! Performing Fri at 7pm. Located Lake Eva Park, Haines City. Fri. 5-9 pm and Sat, 10-5 pm. Admission is free. & 22 – 36th Annual Lake Wales Mardi Gras & 5K Glow Run. The annual Mardi Gras parade and festival has entertained thousands of residents and visitors in Lake Wales with floats, beads, live music, food and spirits with the 2-day event. Friday evening at 6pm, the Annual 5k Glow Run kicks off around the beautiful Shores of Lake Wailes and along the Rails to Trails community

path. The Mardi Gras festival also begins Friday evening with live music, children’s activities, local food vendors as well as beer and wine sales. The party picks back up on Saturday in Lake Wales Park with more live music all day, food, and activities for the entire family. Parade starts at 3pm in the Historic Downtown District of Lake Wales and winds its way through the streets and down Central Ave to Lake Wailes Park. Event located Lake Wailes Park, on the shores of Lake Wailes. Fri, 6-11 pm. Sat, 11 am11 pm. (Parade at 3 pm) www.LWMardiGras. com

FEB 21

to 23 – Jeepin’ With Judd. A 3-day family Jeep festival that offers obstacle and trail rides at Clear Springs Ranch. Bounce houses for kids, food and merchandise vendors. Raffle tickets available for purchase. Don’t miss your chance to win some great raffle items! From high end jeep parts and accessories, to jeep related memorabilia. Camping sites available; first come, first serve. All proceeds benefit Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc. Located Clear Springs Ranch, Cox Rd, Bartow. Cost per Jeep - $60 online, $80 at gate. JeepinWithJudd.com

FEB 21

to 23 – Winter Florida Autofest Lakeland. Presented by Carlisle Auctions. Between a dedicated Corvette Fun Field with Corvette vendors and Corvette themed seminars, an ALL-NEW Mopar-Only Fun Field with seminars, to the Imperial Mustang Club of Polk County, Mustangs and Mustangs Show, this is a full force automotive weekend! In addition, Carlisle Events gives you a Free Collector Car Cruise-In for those who just want to see what Winter AutoFest is all about. Located Sun ’n Fun Expo, 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 8-5 pm. Sun, 8-3 pm. Cost - $10 Fri & Sat. $5 Sun. Weekend Pass $15. (12 and under free) Free parking & shuttle all days from 3785 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland.

FEB 22

– 3rd Annual Chain of Lakes EggFest. Hosted by Mannix Pools and Grills. Enjoy food sampling, vendors and live music: Justin Grimes 11 am, Free Whiskey Band 12:30 pm, Hunter Smith Band 2:30 pm. Eggfest is not a BBQ competition but unique menus from top notch chefs trying to outdo their competitors and “tasters” are the judges. These “EGGheads”, who travel from all over the country, show off their talents on The Big Green Egg - a complete outdoor cooking system that can grill, roast, smoke, bake, and more! A taster can walk around and sample all of the amazing foods cooked by the EGGheads and experience the difference of food made with the Big Green Egg. Tasting is included in your price of entry ticket! Proceeds from the event benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County and Girls Inc. of Winter Haven. Located at the Citrus Center Boys & Girls Club, 2400 Havendale Blvd, Winter Haven. Sat, 10-3 pm. Cost - $25. www.chainoflakeseggfest.com

FEB 27

to MAR 8 – Florida Strawberry Festival. The Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, over 500,000 visitors enjoy the festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, rides, exhibits of commerce and, of course, its strawberry shortcake. Located in Plant City. Flstrawberryfestival.com

FEB 28

to MAR 1 – 49th Annual Lake Wales Arts Festival. Presented by Citizens Bank & Trust. 2-day art show with over a hundred participants hosted by the Lake Wales Arts Council, attracts thousands of people each year eager to purchase original, one-of-a-kind works of art. *Friday night is the annual ART-B-Que Kickoff Party from 6-8 pm. Admission tickets are required for Fri night: $15 for adults, $10 for students. Purchase tickets early as this Special Event traditionally sells out. ART-B-Que Kickoff Party advance ticket sales; (863) 676-8426. Event is located on the Shores of Lake Wailes, Lk Wales. Art show is Sat, 10-5 pm & Sun, 12-5 pm. Free parking. LakeWalesArtsCouncil.org

FEB 28

to MAR 1 – Up Up & Away Florida Hot Air Balloon Festival. Amazing launches as well as nightly Balloon Glows! Vendors with specialty goods and crafts. Live entertainment throughout the weekend. On-site camping available. Located

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Sun ’n Fun Expo, 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland. Fri, 1:30-10 pm. Sat, 6:30 am -10 pm. Sun, 6:30 am-8 pm. Admission prices and discounts online. www.upupandawayflorida.com

MAR 9

– 6th Annual CommunityFest. Hosted by the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. A family-friendly event that encourages the community to come together and enjoy games, entertainment, food and more. This free community & family fun fest allows businesses to give back to the community while families enjoy fun-filled activities and entertainment in the park. Located downtown Central Park, Winter Haven. Sat, 11-4 pm.

Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows

street rods, & antique cars and trucks in Historic Downtown Lake Wales on the 4th Saturday every month. Stroll and admire the cool antique, custom and classic cars of yesteryear while enjoying music, enchanting shops, and the unique restaurants of charming downtown Lake Wales. Located East Stuart Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 4-8 pm.

FEB 26

– Moonlight Market. Monthly Moonlight Market at GRB in Downtown Winter Haven; 4th Wednesday! Coming in from all over Central Florida, vendors set up shop just for you from 6-9pm! Items range from handmade soy candles, unique stained glass, to honey, avocados, and freshly baked bread. Check our website to see which food truck we’ll have out! Swing on by, shop, sip & eat local! Located Grove Roots Brewing Company, 302 3rd St SW, Winter Haven. Wed, 6-9 pm. GroveRoots.com

Main Street Bartow Farmers’ Market – Wednesdays. The Farmers Market vendors offer a wide variety of products including produce, dips and soup mixes, jams, jellies, pickles, honey, pies, candied apples, relishes, pecan and peanut brittle, and crafts. Food vendors available. Located Fort Blount Park at the corner of Main Street and Broadway Ave, Bartow. Wed, 10-2 pm. Facebook@BartowFarmersMarket

Concerts & Theatre

Flea & Farmers Market at Visitor Information Center – Thursdays. Featuring a variety of vendors offering local produce, handmade crafts and more. Located at Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center, 101 Adventure Court, Davenport (by US Hwy 27). Thurs, 9-3 pm.

FEB 6

Lakeland Cruiser’s Car Club – Fridays. Weekly open car show. Come on down to show off your vehicle! Guests will enjoy New, Old, Experimental, Antique, Ancient, Two-Wheelers and Rat Rods. Free registration, trophy’s, door prizes, “share-the-wealth” drawing and 50s/60s music. Money raised benefits the Florida Baptist Children’s Home. NEW location Big Lots parking lot 4233 South Florida Ave, Lakeland. Fri, 5-9 pm. 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.

FEB 8

- Downtown Bartow Antique Fair & Collectibles Market. Held the 2nd Saturday of each month, antique vendors set up along the sidewalks in downtown Bartow. No charge for public; $20 for vendors. Located E Main Street, Bartow. Sat, 8-2 pm.

FEB 8

& 22 - Lake Wales Farmers’ Market. The Lake Wales Farmers’ Market features locally grown produce and more on the 2nd/4th Saturday of each month. Located Park Ave & Stuart Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 9-1 pm.

FEB 8

& 22 – 2nd & 4th Saturday Markets In Downtown Winter Haven. FREE community events, family and pet friendly. Local vendors offering: fresh & organic greens, raw local honey, food trucks, kettle corn, antiques, art painting, jewelry, all natural & organic body care products, wooden furniture, balloon artists, facial paintings, local crafts, fair trade, baby dresses, third party networks, non-profit, local businesses, cold treats, jams & jellies, baked goods, cottage products, live music, book signing, and more! Located downtown Winter Haven, 41 5th ST NW, Winter Haven. Sat, 9-3 pm.

FEB 15

- Uptown Yard Sale & Flea Market. Bartow’s monthly Uptown Yard Sale & Flea Market is held on the 3rd Saturday of each month, along the 300 block of East Main Street in downtown Bartow. Sat, 8-1 pm.

FEB 22

- Lake Wales Car Show. Display of custom, classic,

Lundyville Music Hall – Thursdays & Saturdays. Thurs, 6-10 pm; Country Nights with Simple Country Band. $8 admission. Sat, 6-11 pm; Karaoke Night. Located Lake Juliana Boating & Lodging, 600 Lundy Road, Auburndale. (863) 984-1144 or www.lundyville. com for more info. (Closed in July) – The Brothers Four & The Limeliters. These two great Folk Revival era singing groups will play all of their well-known hits from the 60’s and then join together to play some of folk music’s iconic songs. If you are a child of the 50’s or 60’s or even just a fan of folk music in general, you will know every song that they perform during this very special evening. And Singing along is not just encouraged it’s required! Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Thurs, 8 pm. Cost $20, $25, $35. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 6

– The Texas Tenors. The most successful music group and third highest selling artist in the history of America’s Got Talent! Their most recent albums “Rise” and “A Collection of Broadway and American Classics” both debuted at #1 on the Billboard Classical Chart. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Cost – $73, $50, $41 plus parking. RPFundingCenter. com

FEB 11

– Tribute Tuesday Live: Music of John Denver. A musical tribute to John Denver. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Tues, 5 & 8 pm. Cost $10-$25. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 13

– Tracy Byrd. There are many ways to describe Tracy Byrd, but unique, talented, and charismatic just seem to scratch the surface. Tracy Byrd became a household name on the Country Music Scene in 1993 when his third single, called “Holdin’ Heaven”, off of his MCA Records, self-titled debut album, hit #1 on the Billboard Country Charts. Located in the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Cost – $62, $44.50, $33.50 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 14

– Valentine’s Day Celebration with Sarah Ganey. A Valentine Celebration with Theatre Winter Haven’s Sarah Ganey. It’s an evening of love at the Historic Ritz Theatre. Doors open at 7, the celebration starts at 8 pm. Drinks, Dancing, and wonderful music. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Fri, 8 pm. Cost $15. www.RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 15

– The Sweeney Family Band. The most fun you’ve had in a long time! Meet The Sweeney Family Band …the most loveable bunch of good natured backwoods boys you’ve ever known! They might be a few bricks shy of a load, but they shore know how to have a good time! They’ll not only have you laughing in the aisles, they’ll also have you clappin’ your hands and dancing in your seat! Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Sat, 8 pm. Cost $15. www.RitzWinterHaven.com

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FEB 17

– ABBA Mania. ABBA MANIA formed in 1999 and the show has been selling out theatres and concert halls internationally ever since. This show has toured the world in its quest to bring the music of the Swedish “Supergroup” to their millions of fans, old and new! Located in the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Mon, 7:30 pm. Cost - $48, $37 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 18

– Tribute Tuesday Live: Music of Bee Gees. A musical tribute to the Bee Gees. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Tues, 5 & 8 pm. Cost $10-$25. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 19

– Jersey Boys. They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story -- a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. Located in the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Wed, 7:30 pm. Cost - $83, $67, $62 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 21

– Sister Hazel at Ribs on Ridge. City of Haines City announces the Entertainment Headliner for Friday night, at Ribs on the Ridge, is platinum-selling alternative rock group Sister Hazel! The band will kick-off the event on the main stage at approximately 7pm. Originating from Gainesville, FL, Sister Hazel is comprised of five gifted, seasoned musicians whose well-spring of natural talent has been called “one of the Top 100 Most Influential Independent Performers of the last 15 years” by Performing Songwriter Magazine. Ribs on the Ridge is a 2-day BBQ fest. Fri, 5-9 pm. Sat, 10-5 pm. HainesCity.com

FEB 20

to MAR 22 – Kinky Boots The Musical. This huge-hearted hit tells the story of two peoplewith nothing in common—or so they think!Charlie is a factory owner struggling to save his family business. Lola is a fabulous entertainer with a wildly exciting idea. With a little compassion and a lot of understanding,this unexpected pair learns to embrace their differencesand creates a line of sturdy stilettos, unlike the world has ever seen! Located Theatre Winter Haven, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. Cost – Adults $28, Students $25. Thurs & Fri, 7:30 pm. Sat & Sun, 2:30 & 7:30 pm. TheatreWinterHaven.com

FEB 21

– Comedy Night Travis Howze. U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, former Police Officer, and Firefighter turned National Headlining Comedian, Travis Howze protected America’s citizens for over 14 years, and now he’s making fun of them! He has also been referred to as The Military and Emergency Services Voice of Comedy! Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Fri, 8 pm. Cost $15, $20, $25. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 21

– Bill Engvall. A Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling recording artist and one of America’s most hilarious comedians. Engvall’s iconic brand of observational satire is as relatable as it is laugh out loud funny. Bill’s first album, “Here’s Your Sign,” held the #1 position on the Billboard Comedy Chart for 15 straight weeks. Alongside Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy and Ron White, Bill was part of the enormously successful Blue Collar Comedy concert films Located Alan Jay Wildstein Center for the Performing Arts at South Florida State College, Avon Park. Fri, 8 pm. sfscARTS.org for more info (save 10% by using the code "COMEDY" at checkout.)

FEB 21

to MAR 8 – Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical. Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl’s Matilda: The Musical is about the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. Winner of 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. Fri & Sat, 7:30 and Sun, 2 pm. Located Lake Mirror Theatre, 121 S Lk Ave, Lakeland. Adults $24, Seniors $22, Students $17 (17 & under). Rated PG. Lakelandcommunitytheatre.com

FEB 25

– Tribute Tuesday Live: Music of Motown. The Motowners Tribute show is a fantastic tribute to the many artist and great songs from the classic Motown years. Expect to hear smash hits by the Temptations, The Four Tops, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and many more! Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Tues, 2, 5 & 8 pm. Cost $10-$25. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 27

– Celtic Woman. The 15th Anniversary Tour Feel the embrace of breath-taking music that transports you from your theatre seat straight to Ireland. Celebrating 15 phenomenal years of music-making this year, Celebration brings together our very favorite songs from the journey so far – songs that have created an incredible bond with audiences all over the world. Located in the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Cost - $150, $59, $39 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 27

– 2020 Voices: A Tribute to Motown & The Queen of Soul. A celebration of the African American voice in the arts. Featured artists include Yetta Mae Hansell, Shenita Berrian, Brothers United, Eddie Crockett, Timothy J. McCormick, Vincent Miller, Renard, Deric Feacher, Maxi Wood, Ilexis Holes, Kay Maxwell Yetta Mae, and Syreeda Battle. A music review from the Queen and King of Soul as well as other Broadway Hits. This program benefits Filling the Lane. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Cost- $25. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

FEB 29

– Alter Eagles: The Definitive Eagles Tribute Band. For a decade, The Alter Eagles have been astonishing audiences across the United States with their inspiring tribute to the number one selling band of all time in North America. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Sat, 5 & 8 pm. Cost- $25, $30, $35. www.RitzWinterHaven.com

MAR 3

– Tribute Tuesday Live: Music of Simon & Garfunkel. The Boxers a tribute to Simon & Garfunkel. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Tues, 5 & 8 pm. Cost $15, $20, $25. www.RitzWinterHaven.com

Charity Events & Golf Tournaments

FEB 5

– WPCV 4th Annual Concert for the Kids. Benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This special “power acoustic” concert will feature intimate performances from Nashville’s brightest stars! Ticket proceeds will be donated to St. Jude, to help them continue their vital mission of finding cures for childhood cancer, and saving lives every day. Featuring Lee Brice, Carly Pearce, Eli Young Band, and Matt Stell! Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Wed, 7:30 pm. Cost – Adv $29, Day of $40, VIP $258. Free parking. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 8

to 15 - 1 Billion Rising Polk County. A week-long celebration to raise the vibration of Love in our community. 1 Billion Rising is a global movement that raises awareness to violence against women and children. All donations, proceeds and ticket sales from events will directly impact our community through the Red Tent Initiative a Lakeland based non-profit that stands in the gap of community services and needs. The week of Love offers a chance to embrace each other with love and support. The events use the arts to promote and encourage women and children. Opportunities to rehearse and learn the dance that will be performed in the Saturday Feb.15th event at Central Park available at the Winter Haven Library on every Saturday morning from 10-11 am prior to the event. Contact: Berniewarren@verizon.net for additional dance info. Events: Sat., Feb.8th 1-3 pm Soul Collage at Winter Haven Public Library, an introspective

— Continued on Page 30 FEBRUARY 2020 27

Date Ideas

Cupid-Approved

for Valentine’s By Amy Sumerlin Face it, you’ve been in a rut. … for Valentine’s Day, that is. Same restaurant, same flowers, darn close to the same card. Year after year. This year let’s shake things up a bit, so whether you’re spending the day with a new crush or your longtime sweetheart, you can find a creative, non-boring, (local!) date that’s perfect for you.

Spice It Up We all know that 1961’s new location – and their food – is the bomb, but this year they are saving your Valentine’s Day from the doldrums with an extra element sure to fire up your evening: Rooftop Salsa Dancing. Start your evening with a fivecourse meal prepared specially for Valentines by executive Chef Cem & dessert prepared by pastry Chef Lily. What kind of food? Let’s just look at Courses II and III. For Course II, you can choose between seared scallops, or truffle ravioli or smoked duck. For III, you can choose between lobster, filet, or smoked brisket (and not just any smoked brisket – 72-hour, sous vide smoked brisket). You’ll also enjoy a bubbly toast with a 3-5 wine pairing option. End the magical night experiencing the historical building’s rooftop and enjoying salsa dancing lessons from 9 pm-10 pm. Then dance the night 28

FEBRUARY 2020

away, while enjoying more bubbly with your valentine! The Valentine’s Menu and salsa dancing are available both February 14 and 15. Cost is $85 per person for the meal, and an additional $15 per person for the salsa dancing. If you prefer to eat at home and just come out to dance, the cost is $25 per person. (863) 688-1961; 215 E Main St., Lakeland. Nineteen61.com

Cook Up Some Fun

If you are looking for a real recipe for romance, why don’t you skip the restaurants and learn to cook up a delicious Valentine’s Day Dinner together at Publix Apron’s Cooking School in Lakeland? If your Valentine is a wine lover, their Feb. 14 class will surely be a hit: A representative from Stella Rosa Winery will lead the class. The menu includes: Stella Rosa Platinum White paired with Blini’s with Smoked Salmon, Crème Fraiche & Caviar; Stella Rosa Black paired with Mushroom Ravioli with Roasted Mushrooms & Shallots; Stella Rosa Rosso paired with Salt & Pepper Ribeye Roast with Portobello Jus & Braised Red Cabbage; and finally, Stella Rosa Moscato D’Asti paired with Raspberry Streusel Squares with Cinnamon Chantilly. Class will begin at 6:30 PM and the cost is $100 per couple. FMI: 4730 Florida Ave S, Lakeland. (863) 647-4127. Cooking class calendars listed online.

Ovation Bistro

Ovation Bistro is one of my favorite local restaurants. Wellappointed leather booths and insignias branded into the table offer an upscale feel, but luckily for all of us, that feel stops at the menu – not one price on it has ever startled me. For Valentine’s Day (actually, Feb. 14-17), they are rolling out a 2-for-$60 Menu. For that price, couples will be able to share an appetizer and a bottle of Sycamore Lane Wine, and then choose two side salads, two entrees with sides, and a dessert to share. It’s a great deal, so grab your honey and head to any one of their three locations, in Davenport, Lakeland, or Winter Haven. OvationBistro.com

Artistically in Love

A fun way to bond with your S.O. or friend is to take a paint-andsip class together, which involves– you guessed it–painting a masterpiece (or close) while sipping on a BYOB cocktail. Plus, you’ll have a memento to take home with you. Painting With a Twist, which has locations in Lakeland and Winter Haven, provides everything potential artists will need: paint, canvas, brushes, easel and an apron. No art experience is needed. The Winter Haven’s Feb. 14 class will begin at 7PM, and you will

paint a romantic scene that will be perfect for the bedroom wall: Kissin’ in Red Bottoms. Cost: $40. In Lakeland, the class begins at 5PM, and participants will paint Summer Love—think sunset with a hand forming a heart. Cost is $35. paintingwithatwist.com

How Do You Say “I Love You” In Italian?

Google may tell you it’s “ti amo”… but a great Italian meal in one of Winter Haven’s most elegant restaurants may be even better. For Valentine’s Day, Arabella’s is rolling out a special, three-course menu. For the appetizer alone, you will be able to choose from lobster bisque, salad, blue-point oysters, and more. For the entrée, you will be able to decide between Pollo Alla Milanese (chicken breast), Filetto Di Manzo Con Crosta Di Pepe (Peppercorn mélange crusted filet), and three other choices. For dessert, you and your SO will have to pick between apple bread pudding and chocolate lava cake. Maybe one of each and share? The cost is $80 per person, and you can allow Franco to help you choose the perfect wine to accompany your meal… but it will be at an additional charge. 346 West Central Avenue, Winter Haven. (863) 293-1797; arabellas.us

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Get in Touch with Nature: Bok Tower

If the thought of combining nature and music… and steak… makes your heart skip a beat, look no further than our local treasure, Bok Tower. Never been? Think winding, shady paths with all kinds of Florida plant life, silvery moats, and then there’s the majestic, 200-foot Bok Tower, constructed of coquina, which houses a carillon with 60 bronze bells—the music from which simply adds to nature’s own magic. On Valentine’s Day, they are offering several experiences to share with your sweetie. If you have the day off and want to start the fun early, check out For The Love Of Chocolate, from 1-2 P.M. Includes chocolate sampling, and you will learn how to make a simple dark chocolate syrup using various flavors including brandy and herbs. Cost is $10 members/$17 non-members. If plant life inspires you more than chocolate, check out Sex In The Garden: Plant Edition, which will begin at noon and end at 1PM. Learning how plants undergo reproduction will try to take the mystery out of it to make you a more effective gardener. $5 members/$15 non-members. While there, you will be able to enjoy the Florida Carillon Festival Performance at 1 and 3 P.M. And then… Date night at Bok. Spend a romantic evening in the Gardens made even better with live music on the Terrace with AcousticDose from 5:30-7:30 PM, followed by an 8 PM carillon concert with Geert D’hollander featuring dedications and love songs. Speaking of those dedications, the Bok Tower team is looking for your favorite love songs and dedications to be played during our Bok After Dark concert on Valentine’s Day. Record a voice memo on your mobile device and email it along with your favorite love song. If they select your message, you will win a pair of tickets and your song – and message – will be played during the evening concert. Email your voice message to esmith@boktower.org. Hurry, contest ends Feb. 7. But what will you eat? The Blue Palmetto Café will be open, there’s another option I think you will like even better. In fact, I know you will, because this is what hubby and I did last year for Valentine’s. Enjoy a Valentine’s steak dinner from Chef Fulwood, served in the fabulous Outdoor Kitchen. You and

your honey will receive a 6oz grilled filet mignon, a baked potato (and they will offer a potato bar with fresh toppings), green beans with almonds and chocolate cheesecake for dessert. Wine, sparkling wine and beer by the glass or bottle will be available for purchase and can be enjoyed throughout the Gardens. It will begin at 5:30 PM and will feature live music from Swing Boutique Cost is $40 per person, plus tax, and is well worth it. Members receive 10% discount. 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853; (863) 676-1408; boktowergardems.org

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FEBRUARY 2020 29

CALENDAR From page 27

artmaking process led by Soul Collage© Facilitator; Judy Kahler. Materials provided.(Free or Donation) Sun., Feb. 9th 1:30 pm Red Haute Yoga at Inside Out Yoga Studio: 52 4th St NW, Winter Haven $15 (This is not Hot yoga) Wear your Red Haute Yoga attire for an all level yoga experience. A portion of the studio fee and all cash donations will benefit the Red Tent Initiative. Mon., Feb.10th 10-12 pm Self Defense at the Winter Haven Public Library (Free or donation) Mon., Feb. 10th 6-8 pm Conversations and Spoken Word at Sidestreet Studio 110 3rd St SW Downtown- Winter Haven (Free or donation) Bring a reading or original work to share. Tues., Feb 11th 7 pm Red Haute Yoga Inside Out Yoga 52 4th St NW Winter Haven $15 (This is not Hot Yoga) Red Haute Yoga attire for an all level yoga experience. A portion of the studio fee and all cash donations will benefit the Red Tent Initiative Wed., Feb 12th Stage Read: The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler presented by Theatre Winter Haven at the Ritz Theatre on Central Ave. Winter Haven. Tickets $10-$20. Available online or through Theatre Winter Haven. Fri., Feb.14th Valentine Evening Fun/Fundraiser 6-8:30 pm Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd St SW Winter Haven (Donation) Sat., Feb.15th 3-5 pm (Central Park, Winter Haven) The culmination of the week wraps up with Music, Drumming, Song, and Dance* and guest speakers from our community. Face painting and Love notes art making.

There are cash prizes for the top teams. Show your team spirit; participants are encouraged to dress up. Best dressed prize awarded! Event start/registration is located at Apple Lounge, Winter Haven from 10-11 am. Cost - $200 2-some. Early registration deadline Feb 29th; receive discount with transportation. Call Apple Lounge for more info or www. puttputtpubwh.com

FEB 15 – Florida Tropics vs Rochester Lancers. Indoor soccer located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 5 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 25 – Detroit Tigers vs Mets. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Tues, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers.com

FEB 21 – Lakeland Magic vs Long Island Nets. Basketball located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 7 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 26 to 29 – FHSAA Girls Basketball Championships. Girls State Basketball Championships located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Wed to Sat, 10 am to 10 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

Sports in Polk

FEB 21 – Detroit Tigers vs Southeastern U. Fire. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Fri, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers.com

FEB 7 – Lakeland Magic vs Raptors 905. Basketball located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 7 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 22 – Detroit Tigers vs Phillies. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Sat, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers.com

FEB 8 – Florida Tropics vs San Diego Sockers. Indoor soccer located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 5 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 22 – Florida Tropics vs Sonora Soles. Indoor soccer located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 5 pm. RPFundingCenter.com

FEB 9 – Lakeland Magic vs College Park Skyhawks. Basketball located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sun, 3 pm. RPFundingCenter. com

FEB 24 – Detroit Tigers vs Astros. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Mon, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers. com

FEB 28 – Detroit Tigers vs Blue Jays. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Fri, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers.com MAR 1 – Detroit Tigers vs Yankees. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Sun, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers.com MAR 2 – Detroit Tigers vs Red Sox. Baseball Spring Training at Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. Mon, 1:05 pm. DetroitTigers. com

FEB 15

– Gone Country for kidsPACK. A fun-filled night of music, food, a live and silent auction, games and more. This Fundraising Event is to benefit hungry children with proceeds going to kidsPACK. Located White Horse Ranch, 5718 Yates Ranch, Lakeland. Sat, 6-10 pm. Cost - $75. Sponsorships available online. For more info: Amy Roy (863) 546-4915 or amy@kidspack.org www.kidspack.org 21+ event

FEB 19

– 74th Annual Tiger BBQ. Presented by Rodda Construction. Join us in welcoming back our Detroit Tigers for a record 84 years of Spring Training in Lakeland! For 74 years, the Chamber has organized this BBQ to show Lakeland’s appreciation for the Tigers and all they do for our community. Be a part of the tradition! Enjoy an exceptional menu including a 2020 souvenir mug. Located Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland. Wed, 6-9 pm. Cost – Adults $50, Children (12 & under) $25, Non-Chamber Members $60. Purchase tickets online: LakelandChamber. com

FEB 20

to 23 – 29th Mardi Gras Community Carnival. Hosted and benefiting Resurrection Catholic Church & School. Enjoy Professional Carnival Rides, Games, International Food Court, Beer and Wine Tent, Live Entertainment! Open to the public. Free admission to the grounds and free parking. Located Resurrection Catholic Church, 333 Terrace Way, Lakeland. Thurs, 6-10 pm. Fri, 5-11 pm. Sat, 12-11 pm. Sun, 12-8 pm.

FEB 29

– The Gala. Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College’s annual black-tie benefit is one of the best parties in Central Florida. This year’s theme is A Brush With Opulence. It’s a memorable evening of dancing, socializing, and a wonderful gourmet dinner. A silent auction takes place throughout the evening, as well. Items for auction range from sports memorabilia, great vacation getaways, gourmet meals, jewelry, and more! Sat, 6:30-11 pm. Cost - $400 pp. PolkMuseumofArt.org for tickets.

MAR 7

– Champagne & Shamrocks. Symphony Guild of Winter Haven presents Champagne & Shamrocks. This fundraiser has been a part of the Winter Haven community for 25 years, because of your continuing support. Join us by sharing the evening with friends and listening to the Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra. Cocktail Hour with passed appetizers 5:30pm, Champagne Dinner, catered by Terrie Lobb Catering, 6:30pm, Concert 7:30pm. Cash bar.

MAR 21

- Putt Putt Pub. A miniature golf, Pub Crawl, tournament benefiting the Women’s Resource Center. The course spans 9 local bars and restaurants. Participants visit each location to play the custom built putt putt hole and receive their free drinks.

FEBRUARY 2020

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TID BITS TRACEY’S

By Tracey Greene

NOAH

Doom and Gloom of The New Year When we talk about the start of a new year it’s an almost “rebirth”, which is always met with such positivity, excitement and optimism for ourselves and for the world. However, this new year – 2020, has been such a disappointment: tragedy, sickness, death. From Australia’s raging fires to China’s Wuhan Coronavirus to President Trump’s Impeachment Trials to a possible War in the Middle East to Puerto Rico’s Earthquakes to a Famous Fatal Crash that killed 9 people including 3 young girls. Not the best headlines to keep the public in a positive state of mind. There’s a dark cloud hovering over 2020; Doom and Gloom is not the legacy it wants to leave after its 12 months have come and gone. Being in the media, I understand the need to keep people connected. To keep people

informed. But sometimes, it seems too much such heavy weight for us all to bear. Why do we have to play tragedies – of all kinds, on an almost loop 24 hours a day, but all positive news is always only a blimp on the radar. In the midst of all of the new year tragedies, my hope is that we all can find peace and empathy to help everyone move forward. Look to find the rainbow amongst these dark and stormy clouds. Look to find solutions and resolutions instead of throwing more gas on the fires… As we slowly move into February, the month of love, my hopes are that love is the only wildfire that will continue to spread from Florida to California to Washington to Puerto Rico to the Middle East to China to Australia and beyond. QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Info@todayandtonight.com

COMMUNITY SNIPPETS

SHEN YUN RETURNS Through the universal language of music and dance SHEN YUN weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends and modern heroic tales that invites you to experience 5000 years of Chinese culture with two incredible performances at the RP Funding Center on February 12th at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM SHEN YUN invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. SHEN YUN makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts,

with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away! SHEN YUN cannot be seen in China today, where traditional culture has been nearly lost. Yet SHEN YUN—a non-profit organization— has become an international phenomenon, bringing the wonders of ancient Chinese culture to millions across the globe. For more information, please visit www.shenyunperformingarts.org Tickets go on sale Friday, September 6th at 9:30 a.m. Ticket prices are $158, $128, $108, and $98, $88. (service charges will apply) and are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Office or toll-free 863-397-0100 and online at www.rpfundingcenter.com.

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Noah is a black and white male Domestic Shorthair mix. He is approximately 3 months old. He is friendly, and sweet and gets along with other cats.

MINNIE

Minnie is a black female Labrador Retriever mix. She is approximately 2 years old and has been spayed. She is sweet and playful and likes to play fetch. She has been around children of all ages and likes to jump up on them. She is also good with other dogs. Minnie loves meeting new people and running around in big open yards. She is a little nervous during car rides and does good In the bath.

TABITHA

Tabitha is a brown and grey female Domestic Shorthair mix and is about 1 year old. Tabitha was found wandering the Polk State campus and was brought here to find a good home! She is a very sweet and friendly kitty and seems to like other cats. She is very lovable and loves to purr all the time.

MALEFICENT

Maleficent is a black female Labrador Retriever mix. She is approximately 1 year old and has been spayed. She is the friendliest pup and loves to meet new people! She is good with other dogs and loves to play with children but she may jump on them. Maleficent must be supervised while outside. She likes to go for walks but will pull on the leash a bit.

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 Devon Watts was born and raised in Winter Haven, Florida and lived there his whole life until he left to pursue a bachelors in Marine Biology at University of West Florida. His interest in animals has been present since a very young age and he frequently visited zoos and animal exhibits at any wildlife themed park in the area. He attended University of West Florida for his bachelors of science in marine biology with a focus on preparing for the possibility of vet school. While there he spent time working at the Pensacola Humane Society both as a volunteer and a kennel technician and one particular animal became ill and observing his treatment cemented his desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. He graduated from St. George's University in January of 2019 and has been practicing at Heart of Florida Animal Hospital since February. In his free time he likes to build and paint models for tabletop games, play games with friends and watch movies usually with his pothound Soursop close by.

Dr. Watts

FEBRUARY 2020 31

BRAINEXCERCISE Sudoku Puzzle STRANGE BUT TRUE BY SAMANTHA WEAVER • It was noted Irish author and wit Oscar Wilde who made the following sage observation: “There are only two tragedies in life: one is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.” • The very first CD of a musical recording was made in 1982. The album was “The Visitors” by Swedish pop superstars ABBA. • Immigrants arriving at New York’s Ellis Island in the early years (1892-1920s) were given bananas to eat. Many had never seen a banana and didn’t know how to eat one -- some ate the whole thing, peel and all. • In the small African nation of Swaziland, the Civil Aviation Authority has set a ceiling of 500 feet on light aircraft. These aircraft, as well as kites and remote controlled toys, are not allowed to go above that limit. Also included in the category of light aircraft are broomsticks. Any witch who flies on a broomstick above that limit is subject to a fine of more than $50,000 and possible arrest. • If you’re thinking about moving to another country, you might want to consider Finland. In that country, employees are offered, on average, 44 paid vacation days every year. Of course, you might want to consider that even in the warm southwestern part of the country, winters last about 100 days, with snow covering the ground from mid-October to early May.

TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez

1. U.S. STATES: Which two states share no borders with any other U.S. state? 2. TELEVISION: What is Richie’s last name in the 197080s series “Happy Days”? 3. FOOD & DRINK: What is whey? 4. GAMES: What are “bedposts” in bowling? 5. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What kind of creature is an ocelot? 6. U.S. PRESIDENTS: By how many Senate votes was President Andrew Johnson spared removal from office after he was impeached by the House? 7. LITERATURE: What is the end of the nursery rhyme that starts: “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall/ Humpty Dumpty had a great fall ... “? 8. ASTRONOMY: Which is the largest planet in our solar system? 9. BIBLE: Who was John the Baptist’s father? 10. MUSIC: How many Top 10 songs were released on Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album? Answers 1. Hawaii and Alaska 2. Cunningham 3. The watery part of milk that remains after cheese curds have formed 4. A 7-10 split 5. A small, wild cat 6. One vote short of the necessary two-thirds majority to convict 7. “... All the king’s horses and all the king’s men/ Couldn’t put Humpty together again.” 8. Jupiter 9. Zechariah 10. Seven

• The name of the state of Iowa (unsurprisingly) comes from a Native American language. The original word, “ayuxba,” means “sleepy ones.”

ANSWERS

• Early science-fiction author E.E. “Doc” Smith wasn’t just a writer; he also was an engineer. He’s the guy who figured out how to get powdered sugar to stick to doughnuts.

FEBRUARY 2020

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FEBRUARY 2020 33

FEBRUARY 2020

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BEAUT Y IN FULL BLOOM.

EXPERIENCE

FEBRUARY 1 THROUGH MARCH 31 Explore the beauty of the gardens this spring and enjoy live music, Bok After Dark carillon concerts and a full schedule of exciting events.

SPRING BLOOM AT PINEWOOD ESTATE

BOK AFTER DARK: VALENTINE’S DAY FEBRUARY 14

BOK AFTER DARK: CELTIC CELEBRATION

Explore the beauty and majesty of Pinewood Estate

Spend the most romantic evening of the the year in the

MARCH 17 | 5–8:30 P.M.

this spring as the rooms come alive with a bevy

Gardens and experience live music on the Terrace with

of fresh flower displays.

AcousticDose 5:30–7:30 p.m. followed by an

CARILLON CLASSIC 5K RUN/WALK

8 p.m. carillon concert with Geert D’hollander.

FEBRUARY 29

PEAK BLOOM WALKING TOURS

The Blue Palmetto Café and the Shop at Bok will be open

Complimentary walking tours Mondays

with dining and shopping specials for purchase.

through Saturdays at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m. only.

FLY INTO THE GARDENS FEBRUARY 8: Spain FEBRUARY 22: France MARCH 7: United Kingdom

WINE WALK MARCH 28 | 2-5 P.M. Sip and stroll through the Gardens while enjoying ten carefully curated wines from around the world and light nibbles at each stop. Enjoy a special after party from 5–7 p.m. with live music, dinner specials and shopping.

MARCH 17: Celtic Celebration