May 2017 by Today & Tonight Magazine

CALLING ALL POLK COUNTY SENIOR STUDENT-ATHLETES Scholarship Details Fifty-three, New and Renewed, College Scholarships totaling over $81,000 have been awarded county-wide in amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000 since 2011 to 2016. Submissions are renewable for up to four consecutive years. All Polk County Senior Student Athletes from Public and Private Schools are encouraged to apply: valid for all Varsity and Club Sports, upper GPA is required, and must have overcome personal adversity. The application due date is the last Friday in May. Apply online at www.RobinWagmanAAO.org Also check out the Past Winners and Hall of Fame Inductees on our website as well.

Corporate Sponsorships Needed

Corporate Sponsorships, Individual Donations and Volunteers are needed: www.RobinWagmanAAO.org or call Bob Curtis (863) 557-6143 for more information. Corporate Sponsorship Levels: Bronze = $500, Silver = $1,000, Gold = $2,500, Platinum = $5,000 and Life-Time = $10,000 Make checks payable to AAO Foundation. 501 (c) (3) DLN #17053053312042 EIN #38-3850329

All Polk County Senior Student-Athletes are encouraged to apply. The AAO Scholarship Foundation has awarded county-wide over $81,000 in college scholarships the past 5 years ranging from $500 to $5,000. The AAO Scholarship Foundation was established in honor of Coach Robin Wagman’s accomplishments, determination & perseverance in life and her 5 year battle with cancer and to perpetuate her mentoring of deserving student-athletes... Against All Odds!

Helping Student-Athletes Win at life... Against All Odds! AAO FOUNDATION 6 PINE FOREST DRIVE HAINES CITY, FL 33844 RobinWagmanAAO.org 863-421-1003 (office) 863-557-6143 (cell) 863-421-2776 (fax) bcurtis1943@gmail.com

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Annual Robin Nable Wagman Scholarship Foundation

"AGAINSTALLODDS"

Saturday, June 10th, 2017

➜ Carts Included ➜ Team Photos ➜ Great Pulled Pork & Smoked Chicken Lunch ➜ "Hole-In-One" Cars ➜ Drink Carts & Beer Stations ➜ Super Raffle, 50-50, “Chest-of-Cheer” & Silent Auction SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

• 6:30 am - Registration, Coffee and Doughnuts • 8:30 am - Shotgun Start • 12:00 pm - Awards Luncheon, Super Raffle, 50-50, “Chest-of-Cheer” & Silent Auction The AAO Scholarship Foundation was established in honor of Coach Robin Wagman’s accomplishments, determination & perseverance in life and her 5 year battle with cancer and to perpetuate her mentoring of deserving student-athletes... Against All Odds!

Helping Student-Athletes Win at life... Against All Odds! Individual Player $100 • Foursome $400 • Hole Sponsor $50 Foursome plus Hole Sponsor $425 (BEST VALUE) PLEASE return Player Registration Names and Hole Sponsorship Information before Tuesday, June 6th! Make checks payable to AAO Foundation. 501 (c) (3) DLN #17053053312042 EIN #38-3850329 AAO Scholarship Foundation 6 Pine Forest Drive Haines City, FL 33844 WWW.RobinWagmanAAO.org SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

Office: 863-421-1003 Cell: 863-557-6143 Fax: 863-421-2776 bcurtis1943@gmail.com MAY 2017

4 MAY 2017

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BARTENDER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM SEE PAGE 33 FOR DETAILS â&#x20AC;¢ FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TID BITS TRACEY’S

By Tracey Greene

The Garden: Education Continues My vegetable garden seemed to plateau at the third and fourth weeks. The growing rate had been so steady…then nothing. Hmmm, I think it’s time to fertilize. I already had my big bag of fertilizer on-hand, just waiting for the perfect time to feed my little garden. Like a shot in the arm, leaves that is, it helps them continue to be healthy and grow big and strong. So, at the 30-day mark, I got ready to feed my plants. Mind you, I should have continued reading my Florida gardening book, but instead I went to “the source” for a quick tutorial – my dad. Fertilizing. I’ve been getting prepared for it, bought the suggested type (BTW, so many types to choose from) and got the tips from my dad: #1 make sure not to put it on the leaves because it will burn them. Ok check – do not put it on the leaves. #2 after fertilized, make sure that you water really heavy to help it get into the ground. Ok check – water heavy. Now, I didn’t actually read the bag of fertilizer. Someone else in the household did that for me. Again, I was given the information about how many square feet my garden is, and how much of my 33 lb. bag it would take. I’m now thinking that between both sets of information that my brain received the “cliff notes” version of this information from both of these people. So, here’s what happened: it was a beautiful day and I wanted to get my vegetables fertilized by myself. I got my gloves on, grabbed a plastic bowl and filled it up with fertilizer. Down at my garden, I carefully took handfuls of their “food” and gently, oh so perfectly, sprinkled fertilizer up and down each side of my little plants, at their bases, in a neat line. Well, with my method, it took 3 bowls of fertilizer to complete this task. I was so happy that I got my fertilizing done. A sense of accomplishment for keeping my little plants healthy and well fed. Hmmm, that bubble sure burst

quickly… Later that day, I let said person casually know that I already fertilized my garden. The questions started. Yes, I did it right. How much fertilizer did I use? What do you mean it was too much? It will be fine... (In my head, I’m hearing the teacher’s voice from the Snoopy cartoon, haha). The next morning, my dad happens to call wanting to stop by to catch (bait) shrimp from the lake. It’s almost like the vegetable Gods were whispering in his ear to come over to help my garden – or Mother Nature trying to protect her children from the novice that I am! Two hours later he stops by, we talk about my garden and my fertilizing accomplishment from the day before. EEEKKKK! The three of us scurry down to my garden to see what damage that I caused. Now it was all hands on deck, down in the dirt, getting ALL fertilizer AWAY from my plants. NOT supposed to touch the leaves or their bases. AND it was WAY TOO MUCH fertilizer. I guess that I put enough for several feedings, like a year’s worth! Sniffle, sniffle…some of my little garden bean plants were already turning yellow and brown. Some of my dwarf kale leaves were also turning brown. My dad grabs the water hose and floods my garden to help displace all of the fertilizer. I stood there in a little shock, heavy-hearted with a little tear in my eye. I t wasn’t the elements, it wasn’t the bugs or even the soil – at this moment, I was their worst enemy. My dad, in usual fashion, shrugged his shoulders and said, “you wanted to thin out your garden.” But not this way! Frown on my face. Then he said, “you’ll learn.” If he hadn’t stopped by that day, my whole garden would have probably burned up from the “feeding”. And so my education continues… QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

COMMUNITY SNIPPETS MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire bythe-Lake

The event is held near Polk Museum of Art, along the shores of Lake Morton in Downtown Lakeland Time: May 13, 2017 at 9am to May 14, 2017 at 4pm Location: Polk Museum of Art.

MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake has grown into one of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals. Held on Mother’s Day weekend each year, Mayfaire is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Morton in downtown Lakeland, Florida. Mayfaire is one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida and is on Sunshine Artist magazine’s prestigious “Best 200 Art Shows” list as number 20. Come see why it has such a great reputation!

Mother’s Day Carillon Concert Free admission will be offered to all mothers in celebration of Mother’s Day. Families are encouraged to give the living bouquet of landscape gardens created by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to the special mothers in their lives. Don’t forget to pick up flowers for Mom at the plant sale!

vide ideal backdrops for family picnics, dining at our cafe, or as a wedding ceremony and reception venue. Also enjoy bird watching, geocaching and photography opportunities while trail hiking. Close to Tampa and Orlando, Bok Tower Gardens is available for corporate or social events.

Time: May 14, 2017 from 1pm to 4pm. Location: Bok Tower Gardens Bok Tower Garden is open 365 days a year, and boast must see scenery and architecture. The Singing Tower and gardens pro-

Destination Aviation Summer Camp Destination Aviation Summer Camps offer the option for participants to be residential or day campers. Activities are located on the beautiful SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus at the southwest corner of Lakeland Linder airport (KLAL) in Lakeland, Florida. Destination Aviation Camps offer a flight opportunity for all participants. Each camp offers a day or residential option. Classroom group school instruction includes aircraft familiarization, cockpit instruments,

aerodynamics, and flight simulators. The flight opportunity will be in a Piper Cherokee with campers piloting a cross-country course over the east coast of Florida. Two to three campers fly a ‘leg” of the course in ‘dual instruction’ from a certified Flight Safety International instructor. The campers loggable flight experience may include approximately 20 minutes of flight time and a takeoff and landing. Camp concludes on Friday with camper presentations and an open house for families to tour the Aerospace Center for Excellence.

Time: June 12, 2017 to June 16, 2017. Location: SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus. 863-644-2431 for info. MAY 2017

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

TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 13 Issue 11 May 2017 7

Lakeland’s Posto 9

10 Live Music Calendar 18 Bread & Music

26 May Event Calendar 33 Bartender Votes

COLUMNS: 5

Tracey’s Tid Bits

Kitchen Diva

Now Here’s a Tip

Bartender Spotlight

Live Music Calendar

17 Brian’s Brain 21 On-o-mato-poe-ia 31 Pop Off at Pop Culture

THE FUN & AMUSING: 28 Brain Exercise 28 Crossword

LISTINGS: 10 Local Live Music 12 Snap Shotz 22 Restaurant Guide

July is our 14th Annual Polk County’s Beloved Bartender issue. Make sure you vote for your favorite bartender at www.todayandtonight.com. The top 10 will be featured in our July issue. See details on page 33. A big shout out to all the special ladies in your life; Mother’s Day is right around the corner so it’s time to honor all those “moms” that help us through the good and bad times. Last, Memorial Weekend is bringing up the rear so get those grills out and boats ready for family and friends. But, before drinking down that first brew, take a moment of silence to all that have come before and sacrificed so much so that we continue to live in the BEST nation in the world! Last but not least, a big Happy Birthday to our amazing writer Erica Smith.

As always, Expect More... Get More... We Deliver! Chris Douglas Publisher

18 Bread & Music

32 Sara Michaels Porch Picks

EDITOR’S NOTE

Vote For Your Favorite Bartender

26 Calendar of Events

STAFF PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:

CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE

COLUMNS TRACEY GREENE MARY JOYE SARA MICHAELS

ERICA SMITH BRIAN BRUCHEY

EDITORIAL ERICA SMITH AMY SUMERLIN

MARY JOYE ELIZABETH MORRISEY

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS

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.

On The Cover

Jennifer Smurr — Owner of Born & Bread Bakehouse, and, her husband, talented musician/song-writer, Michael McArthur Cover Photo By Mike Potthast of Potthast Studios in Winter Haven

6 MAY 2017

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, 2017 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BARTENDER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM SEE PAGE 33 FOR DETAILS • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

ON THE MENU

Passion Fruit Salmon. Faroe Island salmon with fried black Jasmine rice, passion fruit topped with crispy straw potatoes.

LAKELAND’S POSTO 9 A Real Taste of Rio

Coffee Braised Short Ribs served with roasted spring root vegetables in a Malbec reduction.

By Amy Sumerlin Photos By Chris Douglas It was a happy mistake. I had lunch at Posto 9 a couple months ago with my lovely friend Linda, but I wanted to try out the dinner menu before I wrote this article. My husband, my mother, and I met there on a Thursday night. I went straight from work, so it was an early meal – beat the crowds, you know. Not so much. The mistake, you see, was not making reservations. We had arrived about 5:45; the lovely lady at the front counter told us she would be able to seat us at “about 8:00”. “Or you could try our rooftop dining,” she said. So, without hesitation, off we went to the third floor, a rooftop lounge that draws its inspiration – and its name – from the Rio de Janeiro beach Ipanema. In fact, that beach is very much tied to the vision for the entire restaurant: One long stretch of sun-drenched sand, Ipanema Beach is divided by postos (posts), which mark off subcultures as diverse as the city itself. Posto 9, right off Rua Vinícius de Moraes, is where Rio’s most beautiful and tanned bodies migrate. “Rio de Janeiro means ‘The Beautiful City’, explained

MAY 2017

Fried breaded Green Tomatoes in pao de queilo and lobster remoulade.

restaurateur Marco Franca. “And we thought the name Posto 9 reflected exactly what we wanted the restaurant to be – a beautiful area where all aspects of society come together for a great culinary experience.” The “we” to whom Franca refers includes himself and his wife, Grace, partners in the business, and often, Posto 9’s Executive Chef, Michel Revy. IT ALL COMES TOGETHER Marco and Grace Franca moved from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Lakeland in early 2014. They left Brazil due to political, economic and social uncertainties. Lakeland was selected due to proximity of Marco’s Mother; and because it was close to two large international airports. During the first year, Grace was living full time in Lakeland while Marco, a busy executive who ran PR Newswire throughout Latin America, commuted to Sao Paulo on a bi-weekly basis.

Charred Baby Octopus served with hearts of palm salad and heirloom tomatoes.

Revy comes to Posto 9 with 20 years of

East Main Street, right across from Munn Park,

Brazil, and most recently worked as Lead

everything from a bank to a residence to a real

experience. He too was born in Sao Paulo, Sous Chef at Publix Apron’s Cooking School in Lakeland.

Prior to joining Publix, Revy was Corporate

Chef to Marius Churrascaria (a Brazilian

steakhouse) in Rio de Janeiro and managed the successful entry of Outback Steakhouse

was built originally in 1908. It had housed

estate office to a music store and most recently an entertainment venue.

Much of the building was in bad shape, and

to make it beautiful again, required a great

amount of deconstruction and reconstruction. Franca is particularly proud of the fact that

into Brazil.

everything that could be saved, was.

THE BUILDING

night was made from wood salvaged during

In fact, the table at which we dined that

“We had fallen in love with downtown,” he

deconstruction.

One day, while walking in the area, he came

floor, which had been sealed since the 1940’s,

said.

upon the building that housed the former

Preservation Hall. The historic building on

Franca was pleased to find that the second

— Continued On Page 13

And while the Francas quickly came to love

their new town, “we also knew that whenever we were looking for a great culinary

experience, we were travelling to Tampa or Orlando.”

So the pair decided to combine their love for

fine dining experiences and their entrepreneurial spirit, and open an outstanding restaurant here.

The concept of a Brazilian restaurant was

confirmed based upon the positive reception

their recipes received when their new friends dined in their home.

“Just by coincidence,” Franca continued, “I

heard about Michel Revy.” 8 MAY 2017

Chicken & Waffles. Cheese bread waffles, Bahia spiced fried chicken, poplano aioli, guava ketchup and bacon salt.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BARTENDER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM SEE PAGE 33 FOR DETAILS • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

King Features Weekly Service

September 7, 2015

a “When your container of cornstarch is

empty, take a dry cloth and wipe it out. Now you can use these canisters for your children’s crayons. When there’s a group of children, everyone can have their own crayons. You also can use these canisters for erasers, pins, buttons, beads, etc.” -- D. in Virginia

a “I do dishes the old-fashioned way: in the • “When moving, use foam plates a“Add dryer sheets to storage totes along asclothes separators for your dinner plates. with and shoes.” -- M.W. in Iowa Use kitchen towels to wrap serving

If you havestain a box that sepaa platters. “Try soaking an ink in rubbing

alcohol a few minutes before the ratesfor glasses, drop a spice jarputting into each garment the wash.” B.D. in and Virginia glass.inUse all the--space, you’ll

have fewer boxes to move.” — P.L. in

a South A.H. from Texas writes: “If you do a lot of Carolina

bead work or have children who collect rocks, • Toold remove stubborn save your pill bottles with thehard-water labels peeled from a shower head (withoff deposits to put beads/rocks/findings into. The pill out are removing it), use thiswhat’s trick:inside, Add bottles clear enough to see ofmoney plain white vinegar to a zipandaitcup saves on pricey, specifically per-top sandwich bag (or a larger bag designed containers.”

failure, most hardware stores and home-improvement centers sell battery-powered lanterns for $16 to $20, and some last for days.” -- J.P. in New Jersey

the remaining 1/2 compared cup ofwithoil, the of contain 200 mcg of lutein 135 mcg lutein in an ordinary egg. Lutein also is an important potatoes, squash, Brussels sprouts, antioxidant that helpscarrot, maintain healthy green onions, celeryvision. roots, All the ingredients for making mayonnaise, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning especially the eggs, need to be at room temperature. and sugar until the 30vegetables Take everything out at least minutes before are you begin. TheCarefully key to making an emulsion is addingon the coated. place vegetables oil inheated a slow, steady the pan stream. and roast for 15 to 20 The type of oil used in the emulsion changes minutes, stirring once after 10 minthe flavor of the mayonnaise. Do not use unrefined utes. Allow monoglycerides vegetables to cool before oils containing or extra-virgin olive mixing the oil, as the with flavor is tootofu strongcream and the filling. emulsion will separate. For the best results, use regular olive oil, or

To Make thevegetable Tofu Cream Filling: combine it with oil. Use this basic recipe for mayonnaise, and then your favorite 1 container (4add ounces) lightcombination of whipped herbs, ingredients and spices cream cheeseto create a spread that will add a special zip to your sandwiches. 4 ounces soft, silken tofu, BASICdrained MAYONNAISE 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese For best results, avoid making mayonnaise 1/2 wetcup lightweather, mayonnaise during or humid as it will affect the emulsion and the mayonnaise will have a greasy 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning texture. a richer mayo, 1/2 For teaspoon saltuse only the egg yolks. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 egg yolk 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard 1/4 teaspoon sugar 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup olive oil 3 teaspoons lemon juice or white-wine vinegar 2 teaspoons hot water

1. Using a food processor, blender or mixer set on medium speed, combine the egg yolk, salt, dry mustard and sugar until well-blended and a pale yellow. With the motor running, slowly drizzle the oils (1/4 cup at a time) into the yolk mixture in a slow, steady stream. Drizzle in one tablespoon of the lemon juice and a teaspoon of the hot water. Continue to alternate mixing in the oil and the lemon juice until all the ingredients have been combined. The finished mayonnaise will be thick. If a thinner consistency is desired, whisk in 1 or 2 teaspoons of hot water. 2. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before using to let the flavors blend. The mayonnaise will keep about 4 to 5 days. Yield: 1 1/4 cups.

ter- or olive oil-flavored cooking spray, lightly spray a shallow, round casserole dish or a round baking dish. Place sheets of parchment paper or pieces of foil inside bowl with strips overlapping the edges to make the croustade easier to remove. Lightly spray the parchment or foil. 3. Place pastry in casserole dish or baking dish with pastry edges overlapping the sides. Mound vegetable cream-cheese mixture in center of the pastry. Leaving an opening in the center, fold the pastry edges around the filling, crimping edges under to form a bowl. In FLORIDINO’S a small bowl, mix together egg and water to makeKITCHEN an egg wash. Brush ITALIAN pastry with egg mixture. Bake the 29400 U.S. Hwy 27 croustade 20 to 30 minutes or until Lake Hamilton, FL (863) 353-2670

T&T MAG: How did you become interested in bartending and how long have you been slingin’ the drinks? RICK: I was first interested in bartending when I was about 20 years old basically because I heard the tips were great! Now, I have now been bartending for 10 years. T&T MAG: What’s your customers’ favorite drink that you make (a signature drink)? RICK: At Floridino’s, our regulars drink a lot of draft beer but our most popular mixed drink is our signature Rum Runner.

ROASTED VEGETABLE CROUSTADE To Roast the Vegetables: 1 cup olive oil, divided T&T MAG: Tell us about your customers? 3 red potatoes, scrubbed and RICK: Our regulars are great and very loyal. quartered Most have specific seats at the bar, it’s kinda 2 yellow squash, sliced into Curry like a “Cheers” atmosphere. And, Phil we have 1/2-inch-thick slices many seasonal (snow bird) customers; it’s great The following additions add a unique flavor to 10 Brussels sprouts, halved to see their faces return every season. this recipe: mix togethIn basic a mayonnaise large bowl, the pastry is golden brown. To serve, 4 and green onions, root ends flavor can be made to complement a wide range er the Spices:whipped saffron, paprika, cumin, mustard, coricream cheese, tofu, allow to cool for 10 minutes. Using of meats and vegetables. removed ander, chilies, horseradish/wasabi, ground ginger, T&T MAG: When you aren’t working, what’s a Parmesan, mayonnaise, Italian sea- a spatula, gently loosen croustade Mayonnaise made by creating an emulsion, curry powder and nutmeg. perfect day off for you? 1 largeis carrot, cut into 1/2-inch soning, salt anddill,pepper untiloregano, smooth. fromRICK: the baking dish or pan using the in this case, oil and egg yolks, two ingredients that Herbal Flavors: parsley, basil, sage, perfect day off used to be watching pieces Refrigerate 30 minutes to blend sheets of Aparchment normally don’t combine. Egg yolks provide a rich, cilantro, chives, for chervil. or foil to help sports and going out to bars, but with a new 2 base celery peeled,when trimmed creamy and areroots, a key ingredient making Other Mix Flavors: grated lemon roasted or orange zest, flavors. the cooled, vege- moveborn it spending on to atimeserving dish.is Serve with my family something and into 1/2-inch piecesqual- tables an emulsion for cut mayonnaise. Using the highest chutney,with sun-dried capers, anchovy the tomatoes, tofu cream filling until warm or at room temperature. I now look forward to. ity eggs, Eggland’s Best, safety concerns paste, pureed avocado, roasted red peppers, lime 1 like large head ofreduces garlic, separatwell-blended. to a minimum. It hascloves, one of thesmashed strictest quality-asjuice, ground dried wild mushrooms, pesto sauce, ed into and *** surance programs in the industry and conducts barbeque sauce, hot sauce, pureed mango or crushed T&T MAG: What’s your favorite drink? To Make the Croustade: peeled pineapple, soy or Worcestershire sauce, honey musmore than 30,000 laboratory tests each year. Adding Angela Medearis isRedan RICK: MyShelf favorite drink is vodka and Bull sheet frozen pastry, 1 juiceteaspoon salt lemon or vinegar to our homemade mayontard,1minced garlic, purple puff or green onions, olives, award-winning children’s author, but these days I just stick to Bud Light. thawed teaspoon black pepper naise1emulsion also helps deter any bacteria growth. diced sweetor dill pickles. culinary historian and the author The in the egg yolks also helps to stabi1 Substitutions: egg 2 lecithin tablespoons Italian seasoning Oil Infused olive oils, sweet alof five cookbooks. Her latest cooklize the emulsion ingredients. Eggland’s Best Eggs 1 oil,tablespoon water 1/4 teaspoon sugar mond canola oil, safflower oil, avocado oil. book, “The New African-American 1. Thaw pastry sheet AT at room tem- Kitchen,” is in bookstores now. She’s 1. Heat the oven 400 F.WEEKLY Pour 1/2 EMAIL SIGN UP FOR OURtoNEW NEWSLETTER WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM cup of the olive oil on a large sheet perature for 40 minutes. The oven known as The Kitchen Diva and is pan or jelly-roll pan, 15 1/2 by 10 1/2 should already be heated to 400 F if the executive producer and host of by 1 inch, coating pan with the oil. the vegetables were roasted in it, or “The Kitchen Diva!” television cook-

King Features Weekly Service

Croustade Will Tempt Even Non-Vegetarians

a “Instead of using candles during a power

October 3, 2016

with added vinegar to fit larger showerheads). Submerge the shower head in the vinegar and draw the plastic bag up tightly around the stem. Use a rubber band to secure the bag around the shower head. Leave overnight. Remove, scrub and shower to release the deposits. • Borax can be used to keep sidewalks free of weeds. Simply sprinkle a little Borax on the sidewalk and sweep into the cracks. This is a very effective weed killer, but it also will kill your grass if you use too much, so keep it in the cracks only! • “Have a stripped screw? Place a wide rubber band over MAYO the head and HOMEMADE insert your drill. The rubber band fills ADDS ZIP TO SANDWICHES in the stripped spots and makes the drill catch the screw. It works most of Sandwiches today range fromfood. slices ofTo beef,me, I the love to talk about time.” — D.D. in Nebraska turkey is or chicken on whole-wheat bread denomto roasted food the universal common • “Make recordings or to short vegetables stuffedaudio in a pita. Dressings, spreads and inator, because everyone has eat. sauces can add a delicious depth of flavor to a typical videos of you reading your children’s Isandwich. love talking with strangers about Lunch suddenly becomes favorite books, then play more for interthem the foods loved as housework, amayonnaise. child, or esting withyou the they addition of doing a flavored when are busy Adding herbs, spices to or a recipes they likeor fruit to prepare, because working or cooking.” —homemade K.A. in Oregood-quality, store-bought mayonnaise changes the those gon stories are often some of their happiest memories and a window into • If you have a sticky zipper, try runtheir culture. ning a candle along the zipper face, then zipping up and down a few My special it Roasted Vegetable times. recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Croustade your tips to Now a Tip,for It’s Send a great appetizer or Here’s side dish 628who Virginia Orlando, FL folks aren’tDrive, vegetarians, a lovely 32803. main course for those who are, and

dishpan in the sink. I put a second dishpan in the other sink and rinse the dishes over it to catch the water. I then use it to flush the toilet. I can flush at least three times a day with the rinse water. Washing your produce also takes a lot of water that you can catch in the dishpan and use for watering outdoor plants.” -- C.S.R. in Florida

By CHRIS DOUGLAS

T&T MAG: Who would be your favorite celebrity (alive or dead) to share an adult beverage with? And why? RICK: Charlie Sheen; I’d like to think my life has been pretty wild and we could share some stories. T&T MAG: Tell us something interesting or cool about the bar/restaurant you work in? RICK: Floridino’s has been around for awhile and has a very loyal following that keeps growing every week . T&T MAG: What’s your favorite music? RICK: I’m old school. I like AC/DC and Metallica stuff - that really pumps you up at the gym. T&T MAG: Where’s your hometown? RICK: Bangor, Maine T&T MAG: What’s the craziest thing you’ve seen a guy do or say to try to pick up a girl? RICK: Once I saw a guy move a chair while a girl was standing so she fell when she tried to s it back down. He then pretended to help her, like he was a good guy. It worked, though, ‘cause she left with him, lol. T&T MAG: What is something your customers would be surprised to know about you? Do you have any hidden talents/hobbies? RICK: A lot of people don’t know that my fiancé and I just had a baby only 1 month ago and we are getting married this summer in Maine. T&T MAG: When can people come by to see you at your bar? RICK: I bartend from 4pm-close MondaySaturday at Floridino’s in Lake Hamilton.

MAY 2017

MAY CONCERT CALENDAR PRESENTED BY JESSIE’S LOUNGE TUESDAY, MAY 2 DAVE SMITH (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) CHRIS POINDEXTER (Isle of Capri, LKD) MARILYN SULLIVAN (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

THURSDAY, MAY 4 BRIAN SUTHERLAND (Fresco’s, LKD) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) ERIC CHURCH (Amalie Arena, TMP)

FRIDAY, MAY 5

10,000 PAPERCUTS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) ALMOST THERE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) SPIT FIRE (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) MAD DOG QUARTET (Fresco’s, LKD) GLASS HOUSE POINT (Grove Roots, WH) ADDED FLAVOR BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) BLACKBIRD ANTHEM (P & J Recreation, FPF) PICKIN’ IN THE PARK (Central Park/Downtown, WH) WC WIDNER 11a/THE PRINCE & THE PIPER 5:30p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) WONDERLAND (Boot Hill Saloon, DAY BCH)

SATURDAY, MAY 6 JOSH BLEVINS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) GLASS HOUSE POINT (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) DEAN JOHANESEN (Fresco’s, LKD) TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS (Amalie Arena, TMP) VEGAN ZOMBIES (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

SUNDAY, MAY 7

SOUTHERN LEGACY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BOBBY JAMES (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH)

10 MAY 2017

SPITFIRE (New Grove Lounge, DUN) WONDERLAND (Roadside Tavern, PT ORG)

MONDAY, MAY 8 BOB & ELLIE SHALLOP/ JANICE RODENBAUGH (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

TUESDAY, MAY 9

ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) JONI CANOVA (Luigi’s Italian Rest, LA) GRATEFUL ALIVE (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BUSH wsg THE KICKBACK (Hard Rock Live, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) CHRIS POINDEXTER (Isle of Capri, LKD) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

THURSDAY, MAY 11 CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: PINK FLOYD DARK SIDE OF THE MOON ANIMALS (Lakeland Center, LKD) SG WOOD (Fresco’s, LKD) 3RD DEGREE BAND (Masons Live, LKD) JONI CANOVA (L’Incontros Italian Rest, LW) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

FRIDAY, MAY 12

JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BURNIN’ BROTHERS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) DANIEL SPROUSE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) MILKA (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) A-V PROJECT (Fresco’s, LKD) ISO: POPS BY THE LAKE (Lake Mirror Promenade, LKD) WONDERLAND (TL’s Place, WH) GEORGE MORRIS AND THE LARIAT BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) SQUIRE SMITH & EDDIE BRUNER 11a/FAT FRANK &

PLANK SPANKERS 5:30p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) THE WEEKND (Amalie Arena, TMP) THE DAMNED wsg THE BELLRAYS (House of Blues, ORL)

SATURDAY, MAY 13

HUNTER SMITH (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) ALMOST THERE (New Grove Lounge, DUN) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM/ BLOODY JUG BAND/GIDDY UP GO/SOUTHBOUND, 1969 BAND (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) JOHN CAMPBELL w/ CRISTI MASSEY (Fresco’s, LKD) JOHN MCEUEN (Gram Parsons Derry Down, WH) WILL FOREVER (Hillcrest Coffee, LKD) JIMMY BUFFETT & THE CORAL REEFER BAND (Amway Center, ORL) PHOENIX wsg WHITNEY! (House of Blues, ORL) JOHN LEGEND (Coachman Park, CLR)

SUNDAY, MAY 14

WONDERLAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUTHBOUND (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) MICHELLE LAMBERT (Mayfaire By-The-Lake, LKD) CARLOS VIVES (Amway Center, ORL) NEW FOUND GLORY wsg TRASH BOAT (House of Blues, ORL)

MONDAY, MAY 15 BOB & ELLIE SHALLOP/ JANICE RODENBAUGH (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

TUESDAY, MAY 16 ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) JONI CANOVA (Senior Center Dance, WH) ROY POWERS/ THE BLUE ROOSTERS (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) CHRIS POINDEXTER (Isle of Capri, LKD) ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

THURSDAY, MAY 18 EDDIE WRIGHT (Fresco’s, LKD) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

FRIDAY, MAY 19

RUMOR HAZIT (New Grove Lounge, DUN) PARTICK RENNEY (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) SWAN CITY QUARTET (Fresco’s, LKD) 10,000 PAPERCUTS (The Pourhouse Lounge, WH) JOHN CAMPBELL w/ CRISTI MASSEY (The Pink Piano, LKD) DULCIMER NIGHT w/ MUSICAL HAMMERS (Central Park/Downtown, WH) B. HAVEN (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) WC WIDNER 11a/ EXIT 44 5:30p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) WONDERLAND (Boot Hill Saloon, DAY BCH)

SATURDAY, MAY 20 WONDERLAND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) MOST WANTED (Old Man Frank’s, WH) KAT & THE DAWGS (Fresco’s, LKD) T MIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots, WH) SHANNON REED BAND (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

SUNDAY, MAY 21

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) ALMOST THERE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SPITFIRE (New Grove Lounge, DUN)

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AFROMAN Photo By Jervaris Kirkland MUSE wsg THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) JONI CANOVA (Luigi’s Italian Rest, LA) DAVE SMITH (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

MUNN PARK SAINTS (Fresco’s, LKD) GEORGE MORRIS AND THE LARIAT BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) GRANT PICHE & THE JUG BROTHERS (Central Park/Downtown, WH) JOHN CORTESE 11a/ SUPPERTIME CELTIC 5:30p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) NINJA SEX PARTY (Hard Rock Live, ORL) TRAIN wsg O.A.R./ NATASHA BEDINGFIELD (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

SATURDAY, MAY 27

MONDAY, MAY 22 BOB & ELLIE SHALLOP/ JANICE RODENBAUGH (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

TUESDAY, MAY 23

BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) CHRIS POINDEXTER (Isle of Capri, LKD) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

THURSDAY, MAY 25 DEB HUNSEDER (Fresco’s, LKD) JONI CANOVA (L’Incontros Italian Rest, LW) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) THE AVETT BROTHERS (House of Blues, ORL) IDINA MENZEL (Ruth Eckerd Hall, CLR)

FRIDAY, MAY 26

VELVET JONES (New Grove Lounge, DUN) JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

SOUTHERN LEGACY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) JADED (New Grove Lounge, DUN) DEAN JOHANESEN (Fresco’s, LKD) WONDERLAND (Pourhouse Lounge, WH) SOUTHERN ROCK’S FINEST (Music Ranch, LKD) SISTER HAZEL (House of Blues, ORL) RAMBLIN ROSE TRIO (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

SUNDAY, MAY 28 JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) NATHAN BALDWIN BAND (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) JOHM HINDMAN & MUSTANG MAFIA (Caribbean Bay, WH) ALABAMA wsg THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND (Amalie Arena, TMP)

TUESDAY, MAY 30 ED WRIGHT (Ybor Lounge, LKD) ROY POWERS/ THE BLUE ROOSTERS (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) CHRIS POINDEXTER (Isle of Capri, LKD) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

THURSDAY, JUNE 1 BRIAN SUTHERLAND (Fresco’s, LKD) JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

ANDY SHREEVE (Fresco’s, LKD) JOHN CORTESE 11a/ TONY RIZZO 5:30p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BRANTLEY GILBERT wsg TYLER FARR/LUKE COMBS (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

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.

MAY 2017

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 Silver Strike Bowling Beer & Wine Find Us On Facebook Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd. (863) 967-2739 Mon, $3 Wells/$10 Malibu Bckts Wed, Trivia 6p Thu, Hospitality Night/$3 wells Sat & Sun, Beer Bckt Specials May 5, Cinco de Mayo 3-day party

BABSON PARK The Crooked Bass Grill & Tavern 1010 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 589-5887 Full Liquor Seafood, Steaks & Burgers Live Music Fri & Sat Tue, Karaoke Pool Table & Darts

BARTOW Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 East Van Fleet Drive (863) 534-3111 Full Liquor Sports Bar Mulligan’s Bartow Golf Club 150 N. Idlewood (863) 533-1668 Karaoke, Thu 7-10p The Wine Stable 150 S. Broadway (863) 533-9463 50+ Beer Selections 40+ Wine Selections

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

12 MAY 2017

Presented By Brew Hounds Sports Lounge The Lucky Leprechaun Irish Saloon & Pool Hall 43356 Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Full Liquor Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables NEW! Outdoor Beer Garden 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 The New Grove Lounge (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537 Sun, Funday w/Hpy Hr Mon, $1 Drafts 8oz Tue, Industry Night Wed, Karaoke 7p Fri & Sat Live Music

FROSTPROOF P & J Recreation 33 South Scenic Hwy (863) 635-9825 Home of Famous Slaw Burger!

FT. MEADE Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732

HAINES CITY All Star Grill 94 Maxcy Plaza Circle (863) 422-3455 Amos Tavern 200 US Highway 17 92 N (863) 422-1459 Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Frank E’s Lakeside 1090 Shady Cove Rd E (863) 574-9830 Fri-Sun Live Music Great Sunsets

Jackie’s Art Cafe’ 621 Ingraham Ave. (863) 547-6778 Daily Music, Lunch Hrs: M-F 10-3p, Fri 5-7p 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 12 p Daily AUCE Food Specials Daily Drink Specials Live Music

LAKE ALFRED LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F Serving Food Tue-Sun @ 3p May 5, Cinco de Mayo May 13, 3-yr Annivers. Party

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 Wed, Kids Eat Free 4-8p Thu, Trivia Night 8p 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 Sun & Tue, Kids Eat Free 4-8p The Boondocks 8515 Hwy 98 North (863) 858-3355 Wed, Pool Tourny Fri & Sat, Live Band 9p Boots n Buckles Saloon MOVING to NEW Location Watch Facebook & Website For Details: BootsnBucklesSaloon.com

— Continued Page 15

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— From Page 8 was still in relatively good shape, and now houses event space. OUR DINNER I was happy the minute the

elevators opened. It’s a beautiful space, and the wind made the temperature perfect.

Our server, Kelly, was awe-

some: Friendly and efficient at the same time, she manages to make

dining on that third floor feel as if

you have been invited to an exclusive party.

Keep in mind the menu on the

rooftop is different than downstairs – so several trips to the

restaurant to get the full culinary

experience, what Franca describes as “Brazilian Southern Fusion”.

We started out with the Po sto

9 Cheese Board ($18), a delightful beginning. I later found out that all the cheese is house made.

‘We use the freshest ingredients

possible, and make everything we can in-house,” Franca remarked. “We filet the fish, cut the meat,

and make the bread, butter and cheese ourselves.”

My husband then chose the

X-Burger Pastel ($13): think perfectly spiced short ribs, aged cheddar, and poblano aioli in an empanada-type shell. He was served three, and two was enough for one evening. My mother chose the Chicken Passarinho ($14): think boneless chicken pieces in Brazilian spices. Mom is the least adventurous, culinary-wise, and even she was tickled with the blend of spices that made it tasty but not too hot. She too had enough left over for the next day’s lunch. I chose the Fried Grouper Sliders ($15), and will definitely order them again. THE FUTURE Is definitely bright for Posto 9: A fabulous venue, an adventurous menu that combines the best of Brazilian cuisine with Southern flair—try their Chicken and Waffles (with guava ketchup) or Shrimp and Grits (with roasted tomato sofrito), for example – and the result is a fabulous place to enjoy alone or with friends. The 19,000 guests who have been served there in the first four months… well, that’s just the beginning. FMI: 215 E Main St., (863) 4990099; posto9gastropub.com

MAY 2017

14 MAY 2017

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SNAPSHOTZ

Champino’s Rest & Pizzeria, Sandpiper Plaza 6617 N. Socrum Loop Rd (863) 937-8866 Happy Hr 3-7p Full Liquor Bar Direct TV Sun, Brunch Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Happy Hr 3-7p Daily Specials Mon .50 Tacos 5-10p Wed .35 Boneless Wings 5-10p Cob & Pen 1221 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8126 Craft Beer & Boutique Wine Fine Bar Food Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E. Edgewood Dr Ste G (863) 686-6441 Even Par Sports Bar Oak Plaza North 5100 US Hwy 98 N, Ste 13 (863) 816-7995 Fresco’s Bistro & Wine Bar 132 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7 Monthly Beer/Wine Pairings Great Bistro Fare/Late Nite Menu 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 House DJ Mon-Thu, Nightly Specials Fri/Sat, Belly Dancers 9:30p/10:30p Isle of Capri 122 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 Food, Beer/Wine Hpy Hr 3-6p; $1.50 Drafts/$2.50 Btls Wed, Chris Poindexter 8p Wed, Thu, Sun 9-Ball Tourn 6p Thu-Sat, Karaoke 9p

Johnny G’s 5153 US Hwy 98N (863) 858-3366 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri 4-6p Tue, Ladies Night 8-10p Wed, 5¢ Drafts/$1 Wells Sun, Free Pool 6-cl

EMAIL US YOUR

SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE NEXT ISSUE

Just Larry’s Bar & Grill 3415 E County Rd 542 (863) 666-6898 Tue, $5 Burgers/$1 Drafts Wed, .50 Wings 4p-cl Thu, $2 Redneck Tacos Fri, AUCE Fish $8.95 Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl Lanes) 4318 US Hwy 98 N (863) 858-3878 Mon, Poker 7p Wed, Poker 11a 1st Thu, Karaoke Contest 1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands Martini’s Lounge 3239 S. Florida Ave (863) 644-8993 Fri & Sat, DJ Pool Tables, Darts, Big Screens Masons Live 5501 S. Florida Ave (863) 333-0096 Crafted Bar Food Tue, Trivia 7:30p Wed, Karaoke Mon, Thu, Fri & Sat, DJ Fri & Sat, Live Bands Mojo’s Wings, Burgers & Beer 1853 E. Memorial Blvd (863) 583-9119 Hpy Hr 2-7p Tue, Karaoke Wed, Biker’s Night w/$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 The Pink Piano 1015 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S. Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor

T A Slammers 1011 S. Florida Ave (863) 682-4178 Full Liquor Nightly Specials

T-Bows 33 Lounge & Package 4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd (863) 683-1201 Happy Hr Daily 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 & Thur, APA 8 & 9-Ball Leag. Thu, Ladies Nite w/free pool Winner’s Circle 4215 South Florida Ave. (863) 644-9464 Sun, Cornhole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p XYZ Lounge East Gate 2190 US 92 E (863) 666-3859 Ybor Cigars & Spirits 5263 S. Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/Flat Screen TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music

LAKE WALES Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 604-1456 $1.25 Drafts Trish is Back! All Star Grill 2019 Hwy. 60 E (863) 679-9689 Sports Bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak 3100 Canal Rd (863) 439-2031 Seafood, Full Liquor Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p Thu, Fri & Sat, Live Music 6-10p

— Continued Page 16

MAY 2017

SNAPSHOTZ The Good Spot 3825 N. Scenic Hwy (863) 949-4243 Mon-Fri, $1 drafts 3-7p Tue, $2 Dom Bottles Thu, Ladies Night ½ price 7-11p Lunch Specials Darts, Pool Table JayBees Restaurant & Lounge 8625 Hwy 60 E (863) 696-1901 Full Liquor Lunch & Dinner Open Mon-Sat Just One More Bar 112 E. Crystal Ave. (863) 223-8803 Mon, Tue & Thu, Poker Night 6p Thu, Ladies Night Fri & Sat, Karaoke w/Paula 9p-1a Sun, Pool Tourn & Karaoke 4p

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special Fire Restaurant 325 W. Central Ave (863) 875-5544 Sat Night, Live Music

Outdoor Seating Available Grape Expectations

535 Cypress Gardens Blvd, St 150

(863) 318-8800 Wine Bar

Smoke-Free

Nate’s Anchor Bar & Grill 239 Third Street SW (863) 662-4772

Pool, Darts, Jukebox First Friday Live Bands Fri, DJ Gonzo/Sat, DJ Melvin Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767

Happy Hr 12-7, 9-cl Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue & Fri, Poker 7p Sat & Sun, Poker 1p 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

Sun, Live Music/$12 Bckts Wed, Karaoke

Sun, May 28, Boat Regatta

Liar’s Lair Saloon Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Fri, Karaoke 8p Live Music

Harborside Restaurant

Sunday, Early Bird 3-5p

(863) 293-0027

Y’all Come Back Saloon 3230 State Rd 60 E (863) 676-5759 Taco Tues, $1 Live Music/Pool

Waterfront Dining in Lk

Darts/Pool Table

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

2435 7th St SW (863) 293-7070

Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p

Past Time Lounge 1605 1st St S

Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-6p

Tue, Ladies Night

Shipp

Wed, Poker 7p

High Seas Lounge

The Pour House Lounge

(863) 299-2233

(863) 299-5515

7000 State Rd 544

1560 Havendale Blvd NW

Great Food/Drink Specials

Sat, Live Bands

Live Music

Idle Zone (At Lake May) 615 7th Street SW (863) 875-7949

Sports Packages/TVs

Great Food; Lunch & Dinner Live Music

WINTER HAVEN

Jensen’s Corner Bar

A.J. Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 875 5623

Smoke-Free

Apple Lounge 2803 Recker Hwy (863) 291-0340 Happy Hr, Mon-Fri 11-7p Food Available; Daily Specials Mon, Pool Tourn Wed & Sun, Poker/Thu, Karaoke

16 MAY 2017

Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 West Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Tue-Sat, 4p Smoke-Free Full Menu/Full Bar

100 3rd Street SW Outdoor Patio Live Music

Somewhere Sports Bar & Grill

5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524 Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily Beer Specials/Sports Packages Lunch Specials Mon-Fri May 5, Cinco de Mayo May 6, Kentucky Derby Party Tanners Lakeside Restaurant 1006 S Lake Howard Drive (863) 662-5948

Jessie’s Lounge

Wed-Fri, Bar

(863) 298-9815

Sat & Sun Open @11:30a

Mon, Free Pool

Sun, Party on Tiki Deck

118 3rd Street SW

Open 4p/Kitchen 5p

Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p

Happy Hr Wed-Fri 4-6p

Wed, Ping Pong Tourn

Thu, Ladies Night 1/2 off select

Live Music Weekly

T L’s Old Place 2390 Ave G NW (863) 299-7924

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17MayfairePrint.pdf 5 4/19/2017 2:50:44 PM

BRIAN’S BRAIN

By Brian Bruchey

The Pizza Connoisseur I eat a lot. I mean, A LOT. I swear, sometimes I even amaze myself. I can’t explain where my body puts the food I cram into it. I’ll eat a meal, and my wife will ask, “Did you get enough to eat?” and my standard response is, “For now”. And then an hour later, I’m back at it again. It doesn’t take much to make me hungry. Just like everybody else, I eat three meals a day. And then there are the snacks in between. Some of my snacks might be what some might call, “another meal”. When it comes to serving sizes on food packaging, I have to laugh. Seriously? One box of Cheez-Its has ten servings? I think not. To me, a single serving of Cheez-Its is one box. Just to give you an idea how hungry I get… I just got up to look in the cabinet to see how many servings are in a box of CheezIts, and when I had the box in my hand, I figured, “Hey, I might as well eat some Cheez-Its since I have the box in my hand. I am literally eating Cheez-Its while I type this. My son is going to be mad when he gets home. He loves Cheez-Its, so when he finds that the box of Cheez-Its is now empty, he’s not going to be happy. I always teach him that the right thing to do is share, but in this situation, he is at school, so I am unable to share his Cheez-Its with him. Some tough lessons to learn for the boy: sometimes, you don’t always get what you want, and your daddy’s a fatty who loves Cheez-Its too. I guess you can look at it as payback. My wife and I don’t like our pizza the same way, I like mine with just pepperoni, and she likes her with all kinds of crap that makes pizza actually gross (which is almost Impossible, in my book). We use to always get two pizzas; I would get a large, and she would get a large. Mine would be my dinner, hers would be dinner, and three lunches. Well, now that the boy is around, he likes pizza too, but he likes just cheese. So somehow, he and I have to share a pizza. I’m not entirely sure on the logic

as to why I have to be the one to sacrifice on this, and not her. As he grows older, so too does his appetite, which translates into me having less pizza for dinner. My suspicion is that this is a natural life cycle in action. In a few years, he’ll have that teenage boy appetite, and HE will be the one eating the entire pizza, whilst I whither up, and die of hunger. It’s the emergence of the new Alpha Male in our herd. I had a friend recently tell me that he has switched to eating cauliflower-crust pizza, and he likes it better than regular pizza. When I regained consciousness, I looked at him and asked him the following two questions: 1. Why would somebody make that? 2. You seriously like it? Call me crazy, but that sounds crazy. That’s like saying you’re going to remake the original Star Wars with Jack Black and Justin Bieber. All this talk about pizza is making me crave pizza for lunch. Lunch is about a half hour away though. I guess I could eat a snack until then. Maybe some pizza rolls.

CMY

Brian “Maybe I’m Pregnant” Bruchey QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS bruchey@gmail.com

MAY 2017

18 MAY 2017

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By Elizabeth Morrisey Photos By Mike Potthast & Chris Douglas

ennifer Smurr is just a small-town girl making big dreams come true. Her bakery, Born & Bread Bakehouse, recently celebrated its two-year anniversary and business is heating up fast. And she wakes up afraid that it’s going to end. The Lakeland resident never imagined it would be so successful. Her sales at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market have doubled since last year and customers continue to line up as the sun rises to grab a pastry and visit friends. “It’s a big Saturday family,” she says. “I love how it brings people together.” Whether it’s newbies who have never tried her signature Cruffin or the regulars who stop by every weekend, relationships are being formed. “I see how big it is and I feel fortunate. It’s a culture Lakeland is longing for.” When Smurr started Born and Bread, it was just a few items and now her selection has grown to 26 breads and pastries. And other businesses are starting to notice what she has to offer. Whole Foods Market in Orlando will start carrying her loaves of bread and she’ll be providing breads and other goodies for local restaurants and hangouts such as Black & Brew, Grove Roots Brewing Co., Cob & Pen, The Terrace and 801 E. Main. “Now with two years of practicing, I feel really proud of my products,” she says. “I still haven’t cared more about anything else.” Because of her success, Smurr, 29, has now hired two full-time employees to help keep up with the demand. “We are constantly innovating new ideas,” she says. “We are always looking to be creative.” For many recipes, Smurr turns to local farmers to get produce, such as strawberries and blueberries to add to her products. She is trying new things and tweaking them to make her goodies even better. Some fan favorites include the key lime parfait cruffins, tomato pesto croisstatas, tiramisu cruffins, turkey and swiss croissants, morning buns and the sausage, asiago and red onion jam croissants. On a recent Saturday morning, Jamie Taylor rolled out of bed early to wait in line at the farmSIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

ers market to buy some treats from Smurr. “My co-worker told me about Born & Bread and I’ve been following Jennifer online,” Taylor says. “It’s worth waiting in line for. This is my third time.” Smurr, who grew up in Polk County, started working as a model in South Florida, but it was her 2014 honeymoon to Paris that sparked her love for bread. She was able to land an apprenticeship with renowned Zac the Baker in Miami and then set up a place to bake in Historic Dixieland in Lakeland. By summer, she hopes to open up one night a week to sell her sought-after creations. “We thought about moving, but something about Lakeland kept us here,” she says. “We have no desire to leave. I’m grateful for the city and how it’s

MAY 2017

embraced us. “I somehow pulled it off. I never thought it would be this hard and this good.” Smurr is not the only one in her family finding success. Her husband Michael McArthur, a Lakeland native, is a musician traveling up and down the East Coast. And this powerhouse duo supports each other 100 percent. They met in 2007 and were married seven years later. Although they are both extremely busy, they make time for each other. T&T MAG: How do you make the relationship work when you both have hectic careers? MICHAEL MCARTHUR: The only way it works is because we both stay busy. When I am on the road, she is busy too. We both have passion for things. When we are both in town, everyday we try to stop by 6 p.m. and spend the rest of the day together. We make time for each other and we have Sundays together. T&T MAG: When did your music career begin? MICHAEL: I’ve played music most of my life. I was singing and playing guitar in high school and wanted to write songs. I grew up on James Taylor, Bill Withers, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder. After high school, I opened Black & Brew restaurant in Downtown Lakeland with my brother, but left to pursue a music career. I’ve been a full-time artist since 2010. It took a

20 MAY 2017

long time where I didn’t have to have a side gig (along with performing). It was such a victory to write and sing songs. “Soulful with catchy melodies” is the way he describes his music and his love affair with his guitar ties it all together. McAurthur, 32, has released three EPs and is currently working on an acoustic album which he says will be out soon. “I have a song for every chapter in my life,” he explains. “Music is so important. I love seeing people connect with my music and seeing it bring joy to them.” Playing at house concerts up and down the coast is when his fans get to hear his music in its purist form. “I get to go back to how the song started. People can hear it the way I played it for the first time,” he says. He enjoys the intimate settings at people’s homes and performs for about an hour and a half. “It’s the most amazing experience,” he says. “You have nothing to hide behind. It’s as real and as genuine as it gets.” Although he is usually on the road, he still plays in Lakeland two to three times per year. Last year, he performed with the Imperial Symphony Orchestra at the Polk Theatre in downtown Lakeland. “Lakeland has been so good to both of us,” he says. For more information visit www.bornandbreadbakehouse.com or facebook.com/bornandbreadbakehouse

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ONOMATOPOEIA on·o·mato·poe·ia: The naming of a thing or action by a vocal imitation of the sound associated with it (as buzz, hiss).

By Erica Smith

ECKABELLE

How Old Should I Be? “I will not write a column about chickens.” This is the phrase that rested on my computer screen for the last three days reminiscent of Bart Simpson writing his latest sin on the chalkboard in the opening credit roll of The Simpsons. I fondly remember past columns dedicated to politics, pop culture, technology and current events. For over a decade, my writing reflected a diversity of subject matter and personal opinions. Over the last year, the mental disorganization has started to clear and I find myself less focused on sharing my personal opinions and more concentrated on what is directly happening around me. While this approach is certainly showing a degree of maturity, it makes for a very difficult column writing session. “Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” — C.S. Lewis The month of May is spotlighted with a few significant dates like Mother’s Day, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day and not the least important, my birthday. According to the Zodiac, people born under the sign of Taurus are known for being reliable, practical, ambitious, sensual and have an eye for beauty. Conversely, they are stubborn, lazy and afraid of change. Quite the mix of good and bad, for us Taurus babies. How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are? —Satchel Paige Let us never know what old age is. Let us know the happiness time brings, not count the years. —Ausonius Satchel Paige was considered by many players as one the greatest pitchers in the game of baseball and Decimius Magnus Ausonius was a 3rd century Roman poet and teacher. While both of these men lived in vastly different time periods, there is

significant wisdom in their approach. I have always had a hard time remembering my age. I can easily blame this on my mother who never shared her true birthdate and was quite content to settle in at the permanent age of 21. Not out of vanity but more out of patrimonial humility, my father practiced much of the same behavior as he often sacrificed the birthday spotlight to support some other pressing activity. To this day, I cannot tell you how old either of my parents are and quite frankly, I really don’t care to know. I much prefer to think of them as timeless. Whether this behavior is it denial or just bad math skills, I like to remain in the dark. I like the fairy tale. The older I get, the more I understand numbers really do not define a person. In my forties, I still harbor a desire for sparkles, hair bows and lacy socks while the fashion establishment would much prefer I enjoy sensible heels, updated fashion classics and a good under eye cream. My preference for dreamy notions was generated between the covers of Emily Bronte novels or probably closer to the truth; the colorful spiral notebooks of Lisa Frank (if you are a child of the 80’s, you will understand this reference.) The dichotomy of my fashion choices also stems from the fact that the “romance on the moors” subject matter was read in the shadow of Madonna videos on MTV. You don’t get older, you get better. — Shirley Bassey For this month, I will rest my thoughts on age and becoming one year older with this final words of wisdom from the Welch singing sensation Shirley Bassey who is best known for her hit song from James Bond’s Goldfinger. Getting older is unavoidable but how you choose to age is your choice. QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

Eckabelle is a brown and black female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 2 years old. She is a friendly, sweet, playful, lap cat. She is litter box trained. She is an indoor cat. She gets along well with other cats and even played well with the pet rabbit. She loves to talk and eats Party Treats - they are her favorite! She likes to play with strings, mice and fuzzy balls.

ALFRED

Alfred is a very loving kitten. He loves to be held and has the best purr. He is very playful and gets along with other cats. He would make a great fit in any home.

SPRINGTRAP

Springtrap is a copper male Hound mix. He is approximately 1 year, 2 months old. Springtrap was found as a stray when he was a puppy and is here now because the child in the home wasn’t taking care of him. He has been kept outdoors, not been around other animals, and get s along with children. He still acts like a big puppy!

PRADA

Prada is a very friendly female who thinks she is a lap dog. She loves children, but is not good with cats. The only time she likes being outside is when she needs to potty. She totally enjoys just being with you no matter if it’s just watching TV on the couch or going for a walk , she will be your perfect pet!

The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227 Tuesday-Friday 11:30-6pm and Sat 10-4 pm.

Veterinarian of the Month DR TERESA YODER

Dr. Yoder has been volunteering her services to the Humane Society of Polk County since 1989. Back in the “old days” when she did farm calls we would often have her out all over the county assisting with our animal cruelty investigations. Doc has been a vital part of our S.N.I.P. program as well, helping us get this program organized and running smoothly. Dr. Yoder and her staff continue their commitment to the Humane Society by making a difference in the lives of Polk’s pets. Dr. Yoder’s office is located at Ridge Veterinary Hospital, 23992 HWY 27, Lake Wales, FL 863-676-8240

MAY 2017

POLK COUNTY’S

RESTAURANT GUIDE To Have Your Restaurant Listed Please Call 863-401-8001

AUBURNDALE SWEET MAGNOLIAS TEA & BISTRO

Relax, Sip, Enjoy! It’s our house special TEA! Gourmet teas & coffees. Fine meals & excellent desserts including our delicious, hearty lunches prepared fresh everyday! Private parties welcome! Monday-Saturday 11am-3pm. Gift certificates available. Must Try: one of our tasty sandwiches or wraps. 212 Howard St., Auburndale 863-965-1684 www.mysweetmagnolias.com

DUNDEE MELONIE’S CAFE

The original uptown Dundee Cafe. All entrees prepared daily. Unique stir-fry, breakfast, signature salads, sandwiches, handmade burgers, nostalgic shakes & desserts. Follow us on Facebook for Daily Specials and Discounts Must-try: Friday Night Fish Fry 5-8 pm with Live Music 209 East Main Street, Dundee 863-439-5416

WILDFIRE BBQ GRILL & BAR

Our passion for BBQ run’s deep!! All starts

22 MAY 2017

with personally picking the right meat, hand rubbing it with our own secret blend of spices, letting it rest for at least twenty four hours. We at wildfire do not rush our cooking, our fires run wild but our patience runs deep. We take our sweet time to slow smoke each and every meat, as they all require their own attention and gentle love and care. It is this love and care that goes in every meal we prepare for you, just like we would for our friends and family, slow and with lots of love. Ribs & Special Burgers 28610 Hwy 27,Dundee 33838 • (863)588-2114 www.wildfiregrills.com

HAINES CITY BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Polk County’s largest family sports pub. Happy Hour M- Sat. 4pm to 7pm. 2-4-1 cocktails all day everyday. See Website for full menu. Kids eat free Tuesdays. Must Try: Blackened Dry Rub Wings 902 Old Polk City Rd. 863-419-4848 www.beefobradys.com

JACKIE’S ART CAFE

We feature specialty Quiches; In addition to the “regular” menu, we also offer a Plant-Based menu. Everything - including soups & desserts - is home-made. We make big fresh salads

daily, buy fresh fish and cook them here, and slow cook and shred pork for our sandwiches. Great Food. Great Music. Great Friends. Live music daily. Open from Monday to Friday, 10 am to 3 pm and Friday evenings from 5-8 pm. Check out our reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook. Must Try: Try Our Smoked Salmon Quiche, Blue Crab Quiche and Dali Salads are spectacular. 621 Ingraham Ave, Haines City (863) 547-6778 facebook.com/jackiescityhallartcafe www.jackiesartcafe.com Email: jackiesartcafe@gmail.com

LAKELAND BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S NORTH LAKELAND Lakeland’s Best Family Sports Pub. 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Gameplan Saturdays. Happy Hour 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Bingo Mondays from 5-6 pm. Kids Eat Free Wednesday from 4-8 pm. Trivia Night on Thursdays from 8-10 pm. Must Try: Hot & Fresh Fajitas - Everyday! Chicken wings! 1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 www.beefobradys.com

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH LAKELAND Great Food! Great Sports! Great Family Fun!

40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Game Plan Saturdays. 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Coldest Beer In Town. Kids Eat Free Tuesdays & Sundays 4-8 pm. Now Featuring A Full Liquor Bar. Must Try: Our Delicious Fajitas and Awesome Burgers! 4810 South Florida Ave (863) 646-7757 www.beefobradys.com

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. Live music every Friday and Saturday from 8pm-11pm. 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 19 years! Monday 5pm to 10pm 50¢ Tacos. Wednesday 5pm to 10pm 35¢ Boneless Wings. Friday Homemade New England Clam Chowder. Fresh food specials all weekend! Not your typical sports bar! Follow us on Facebook! 6645 S. Florida Ave. #14 863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com — Continued Page 25

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MAY 2017

24 MAY 2017

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BARTENDER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM SEE PAGE 33 FOR DETAILS â&#x20AC;¢ FIND US ON FACEBOOK

RESTAURANT LISTING From page 22

CHEF T’S GARDEN GRILL

Central Florida’s most beautiful dining experience. Enjoy exquisite continental and American cuisine in a historic turn-of-the-century atmosphere in the historic Chiles house. Or linger over wine and appetizers on our intimate garden patio. “I Love Food And The Art Of Dining”- Chef T Must Try: Veal lovers are in for a treat! 1525 E Gary Rd., Lakeland 863-687-4386

JUST LARRY’S BAR & GRILL

Our food specials: Tuesday $5 Burgers and $1 Drafts, Wednesday .50 cent Wings 4 pm to close, Thursday $2 Redneck Tacos, Friday AllYou-Can-Eat Fish $8.95. Must Try: Wings 3415 E COUNTY RD 542 (863) 666-6898

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 ALFRED CORNERSTONE GRILL

Cornerstone Grill is a small family restaurant created with the local farmers and growers in mind. Our food is made from scratch and each meal is made to order with a goal of being 100% local sustainable. In-house cured and smoked meats, sourcing products from local purveyors, seasonally inspired and globally influenced. Also vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Craft beers and fine wine. Lunch - Dinner - Catering. Monday - Saturday 11 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm. Check out their Facebook for wonderful and

unique “specials of the day” that incorporate seasonal products from fruits, vegetables to meats. 175 E. Haines Ave, Lake Alfred (863) 875-8913 • WWW.CORNERSTONEGRILL.ORG

LAKE WALES BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Polk County’s largest family sports pub. Happy Hour M- Sat. 4pm to 7pm. 2-4-1 cocktails all day everyday. See Website for full menu. Kids eat free Tuesdays. Must Try: Over 20 Flavors of Wings 19598 US Hwy 27, 863-679-1975 www.beefobradys.com

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 amd famous burgers. Come in and check our daily lunch and dinner specials. Weekend specials. prime rib, frog legs, fried shrimp anc 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 speciality pizzas. Lunch & dinner menu. Warm & casual dining atmosphere. Must Try: Classic Pizza Napoli 326 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven 863-875-4894 www.arabellas.us/bistro

APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL

#1 Happy Hour Monday-Friday 11am-7pm. $1 Taco Tuesdays! Wings, Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads, Fried Pickles, Chicken Fingers, Nachos and much more! Open Mic Night every Tuesday. Winner of the people’s choice Wing Fling 2011 Wing Champs! Come try em’ yourself. Must Try: Famous Wings 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven 863-291-0340

ARABELLA’S

We offer the best Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, created from the freshest ingredients. Enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner in our chic Ave Bar. At Arabellas, our dedicated service and inviting ambience 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

HARBORSIDE

Seafood, Steak, Oysters. Polk County’s Premier Waterfront Restaurant. Scenic dining on Lake Shipp. Happy Hour 3-6pm daily. Early Bird Sunday 3-5pm and Monday thru Thursday 3-6pm. Private dining room, outdoor patio, beach and boat docks. Amazing sunset views. Open 11:30 am daily. Must Try: Fried Lobster & Oysters 2435 7th Street SW, Winter Haven (863) 293-7070 • www.harborsidefl.com

HARRY’S OLD PLACE

Get your Fresh Fix at Harry’s Old Place. Huge selection of fresh fish including shrimp, scallops and mussels in addition to char-grilled steaks, chicken and pasta entrees. Craft beers, eclectic wines and tempting appetizers along with a great children’s menu. Less than a mile from Legoland. Like Facebook for weekly specials. We have mobile catering, Tallulah’s Table by the Sea for private parties and events. Must Try: Fish in a Bag 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd., Winter Haven 863-324-0301 www.harrysoldplace.com

IDLE ZONE BAR & GRILL Located on Lake May (chain of lakes) with a brand new dock. Serving fresh, homemade lunch and dinner. AMAZING WINGS! Live music, karaoke and games. Totally remodeled atmosphere, clean and non-smoking inside. Outside patio seating. Must Try: Hot and Fresh Wings 615 7th St., Winter Haven 863-875-7949

LA FLOR DE ESPANA BAKERY & RESTAURANT Authentic Cuban, Puerto Rican and Spanish cuisine. Fresh baked breads, pastries and desserts. $3.99 breakfast specials. Cold beer and wine. Warm, friendly atmosphere. Free WiFi. Large groups welcomed. Catering available. Open from Monday-Thursday from 7 am to 7 pm. Friday & Saturday 7 am to 9pm. Must Try: Cuban Sandwich, Pastries, Breakfast. 200 Post Ave SW, Winter Haven 863-299-1122 or 863-299-2626

SOMEWHERE SPORTS BAR Enjoy great food, great games and great times in a family-friendly atmosphere. As your sports headquarters, ESPN, NFL & MLB ticket available on 14 flat screen TV’s. Daily lunch specials Mon-Fri from 11-2 pm only $5.99. Open 7 days a week. Appetizers, Sandwiches, Wraps, Salads, Burgers, Pizza & Wings. Full liquor with Happy Hour Mon-Sat from 3-6 pm. Must Try: Jumbo Wings & Pizza 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524

To Have Your Restaurant Included In This List, Please Call Us at 863-401-8001 MAY 2017

MAY 2017

MAY 21

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

MAY 3

to 7 – “Top Gun” Radio Controlled Championship. Featuring top radio control model pilots from around the globe. More than 130 pilots and their super scale radio controlled aircraft will be competing for over $25,000 in cash and prizes in eight categories, and the very sought after title of “Mr. Top Gun.” Bring your own chair, or use one of over 1,000 chairs provided. Every ticket is a pit pass. Located at Paradise Field, Lakeland Linder Airport, 3875 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland. Daily, 8:30-5 pm. Cost - $10, kids 12 and under are free. www.FrankTiano.com for more info.

MAY 6

– 4th Annual 7 Rivers Water Festival. Fun, free, family-friendly outdoor celebration that centers on water conservation, environment, recreation, Florida Friendly® landscaping and utilities, our effect on the environment, and our health. Food, games, prizes, educational experiences and more. Located Lake Eva Park, 301 Ledwith Ave, Haines City. Sat, 10-3 pm. www. polk-county.net (7 Rivers Water Festival).

26 MAY 2017

MAY 6

– Fruits of the Spirit: Gospel Festival of Praise. Come listen to live music with Church of God the Bibleway Y.A.M., show casing different gospel bands from within the city and churches. For more information on this event contact Jean at (863) 709-4933. Located MLK Park, 199 E Lake Silver Dr NW, Winter Haven. Sat, 3-7 pm.

MAY 11

- Thursday Squared Food Truck Rally. Presented by Downtown Lakeland Partnership. 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. Call for more info.

MAY 11

– Wine & Nibbles. Hosted by Main Street Winter Haven. Downtown Winter Haven business will host a wine tasting, Main Street Winter Haven will create a map showing locations of the business that are offering samples. Located Downtown Winter Haven. Thur, 5:30-8:30 pm. www.mainstreetwh.com for more info.

MAY 12

- Car Show at Eagle Ridge. Monthly car show every second Friday (except Jul & Aug). Free for all vehicles, trophies, music, door prizes, raffle. Rain or Shine. Sponsored by Mall Management and the Central Florida Street Rod Association. Located at the Eagle Ridge Mall in Lake Wales.

MAY 13

– Mayfaire Saturday Night. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets for a free party on the shores of Lake Mirror, just two blocks north of Lake Morton. New this year, a variety of Food Trucks will be lined up on the shore of Lake Mirror for you culinary enjoyment. This event includes fireworks and the MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire 5K Race. (For more information about the race, contact Lakeland Runners Club.)

Beverage vendors will be available on site. Located Lake Mirror Promenade, Downtown Lakeland. Sat, 5-11 pm. polkmuseumofart.org for more info.

MAY 13

& 14 MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake. One of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals. Held on Mother’s Day weekend each year, enjoy art, activities, music and more! Mayfaire is one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida and is on Sunshine Artist magazine’s prestigious “Best 200 Art Shows”. Come see why it has such a great reputation! Located on the shores of Lake Morton, 100 Lake Morton Drive, Downtown Lakeland. Sat & Sun, 9-4 pm. www.polkmuseumofart. org for more info.

MAY 18

– “Taste of the Summer” Craft Beer Festival. Enjoy sample of craft beer, live entertainment and a baseball game. First 200 receive a free tasting glass. Proceeds benefit the Early Learning Coalition of Polk County. Beer festival is for adults 21+. Lakeland Flying Tigers play the St. Lucie Mets. Located at Publix Field Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland. Thurs, 5:30 pm gates open, 6:30 pm first pitch. Cost – Adult tickets $12. Includes beer fest and game ticket. To order tickets (863) 733-9064 or www. ELCPolk.org

MAY 20

& 29 - Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show. Free Water Ski Show from the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Concessions with snacks and drinks available. Bring your blanket or lawn chair for seating. Located Martin Luther King Jr Park, 100 Lk Silver Dr, Winter Haven. Sat, 5 pm. (Memorial Day Water Ski Show is Mon, 4 pm) www. cypressgardenswaterskiteam.com

– The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Presented by the Florida Dance Theatre at Lakeland Live! Join The Mad Hatter, Alice, White Rabbit & friends for an afternoon of Topsy Turvy fun. This way, That way, All can come and play. Come dressed as Alice or bring your craziest hat for a chance to win prizes! Don’t lose your head, come & paint the roses red. Enjoy delicious treats and many sweets. Don’t be late for a very important date! Located LkldLive, 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland. Sun, 1-3 pm. Cost - $20 Adults, $15 Children. Call (863) 8020399 for more info.

MAY 27

– Family Fun & Fitness at the Fountain. This is an hour long exercise program in Central Park. Athletic trainers from different wellness centers in the community lead exercises. No reservation is required, just show up. Located Central Park, Downtown Winter Haven. Sat, 9-10 am.

MAY 27

– Historic Pughsville May Day Festival. Historic Pughsville Association Inc., along with Polk State College and City of Winter Haven has partnered for this free community event. Including a fish fry, vendors, and various entertainment throughout the day. Located Chain O’ Lakes Complex, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. Sat, 12-4 pm. Call (863) 2915656 for more info.

MAY 29

– Haines City’s Memorial Day. Join us next month as we honor and pay tribute to the many brave generations who have fallen, giving the ultimate sacrifice for our Country and freedom. Ceremony at the Military Court of Honor, Railroad Park in Downtown Haines City, 502 E. Main Street, Haines City. Mon, 9-11 am.

JUN 2

– First Friday; Summer Sounds in Downtown Acoustic Music. Every month, on the first Friday of the month, people from all over the community converge in Downtown Lakeland for an evening of free family friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show; shops are open late. Located Downtown Lakeland, Munn Park. Fri, 6-9 pm.

Farmers’ Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows Main Street Bartow Farmers’ Market – Wednesdays. The Farmers Market

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BARTENDER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM SEE PAGE 33 FOR DETAILS • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

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. Dixie Twilight Farmer’s Market – Wednesdays. Vendors include: organic produce, eggs, soaps, jewelry and more. Located under the breezeway of the Dixieland Village, 1035 S. Florida Ave, Lakeland. Every Wed night from 5-8 pm. Davenport Farmers’ Market – Thursdays. Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center in Davenport hosts a farmers market each Thursday featuring a variety of vendors offering local produce, handmade crafts and more. Located Central Florida’s Visitor Center, 101 Adventure Court, Davenport. Thurs, 9-3 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 (formally known as food stamps). Stop by the Market Information Booth for more details! Located N. Kentucky Ave, Lakeland. Sat, 8 am-2 pm. (closed August)

MAY 13

- Downtown Bartow Antique Fair. 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.

MAY 13

& 27 - Saturday Market Downtown Winter Haven. A free community event, family and pet friendly. Offering a variety of food vendors, antiques, paint artists, jewelry artists,

hand-made soaps, hand-made local furniture, local crafts, local raw honey, local fresh goods, non-profit organizations with great needs, kettle corn, popsicles, fresh produce and veggies, lots of home-made products from cottage industry, seasonal local grown fruits and vegetables. Bring your chair and enjoy live music as well. Free event. Everyone welcome. Located Central Park, 5th St SW, Downtown Winter Haven. Sat, 9-3 pm.

MAY 13

& 27 - Lake Wales Farmers’ Market. The Lake Wales Farmers’ Market features locally grown produce and more on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Located Park Ave & Stuart Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 9-1 pm.

MAY 19

- 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.

MAY 20

- 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.

MAY 27

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

Concerts & Theatre Lundyville Music Hall – Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays. Wed, 7:3010 pm; Acoustic Stage Open Mic. Performers and audience free. Thurs, 6-10 pm; Country Nights with Simple Country Band. $5 admission. Sat, 6-10 pm; Karaoke Night. Located Lake Juliana Boating & Lodging, 600 Lundy Road, Auburndale. (863) 984-1144 or

www.lundyville.com for more info.

MAY 7

– Young Peoples Concert. Join the Symphony Guild of Winter Haven for an afternoon of music that will feature Harrison’s Performing Arts School. Young talent and Rob Lambert, conductor, will be showcased at this event as well. Located PSC, WH Campus, Fine Arts Theatre, 999 Ave H, NE, Winter Haven. Sun, 3 pm. Cost – Free.

MAY 11

– Classic Albums Live: Pink Floyd. Cut-for-cut and note-fornote concert for the Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon album. Thurs, 8 pm. Located at The Lakeland Center. www. thelakelandcenter.com for more info.

MAY 12

– Pops By The Lake. Performed by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra. This fun, family-friendly outdoor concert is held on the Friday before Mother’s Day each year. Producing sponsor: Southern Homes. Located Lake Mirror Promenade, 121 S. Lake Ave, Lakeland. Fri, 8 pm.

MAY 12

to 14 – Madagascar Jr; A Musical Adventure. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure follows all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Located at Theatre Winter Haven, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. Fri, 6:30 pm. Sat, 10 am & 2:30 pm. Sun, 2:30 pm. Cost - $10 Adults, $8 Students. www.theatrewinterhaven.com for more info.

— Continued On Page 31

Who’s Your Favorite Bartender? VOTE TODAY! Scan To Vote By Phone

Apps available for most smart phones. Or simply go to www.todayandtonight.com. See page 33 for details.

MAY 2017

BRAINEXCERCISE Sudoku Puzzle STRANGE BUT TRUE BY SAMANTHA WEAVER • It was the 32nd president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt, who made the following sage observation: “Government by organized money is just as dangerous as government by organized mob.” • You might be surprised to learn that Helen Keller, best known as the first blind and deaf person to earn a bachelor’s degree, loved performing. She spent years on vaudeville tours, and in 1919 she starred in “Deliverance,” a silent film about her life. • In the Canadian town of Churchill, Manitoba, most people don’t lock their car doors. The primary motivation for this practice isn’t trust (although, of course, trust is required), but public safety: A pedestrian who unexpectedly encounters a polar bear will be able to find refuge in any car along the street. • With warmer weather approaching, you might want to consider heading to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to witness an annual rite of spring. Students at Lake Superior State University gather on (or near) the first day of spring for the annual Snowman Burning. Started in 1971 by a campus club known as the Unicorn Hunters, the tradition involves setting alight a 12-foot-tall “snowman” -- usually built of recycled paper, wood and wire -- to celebrate the end of winter.

TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez

1. FOOD & DRINK: What is meringue made of? 2. MOVIES: What were the names of the tunnels in the movie “The Great Escape”? 3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Pure gold consists of how many karats? 4. LITERATURE: In which of Charles Dickens’ novels does the character of Fagin appear? 5. GEOGRAPHY: What Pacific island nation is known by the initials FSM? 6. ANATOMY: How many chambers are in the human heart? 7. MUSIC: How many keys are on a standard piano? 8. BIBLE: How old was Methuselah when he died? 9. MEASUREMENTS: What degree of latitude is the Equator? 10. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a group of rhinos called? Answers 1. Whipped egg white and sugar 2. Tom, Dick and Harry 3. 24 4. “Oliver Twist” 5. Federated States of Micronesia 6. Four 7. 88 8. 969 in the Hebrew Bible 9. Zero 10. A crash

ANSWERS

• If you haven’t listened to any new music in a while, chances are you’re over 33. Those who study such things say that’s the age at which Americans would rather stick to what they know than try out new tunes.

28 MAY 2017

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MAY 2017

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POP OFF at

Pop

Culture

By Mary Joye

The Kindness Diaries It is a marvel how many things you can find to watch on television if you know what buttons to push on Netflix. A man named, Leon Logothetis pushes buttons back. He is a successful businessman, who has a show that money can buy happiness if you use it for good. I’m so glad I found the show “The Kindness Diaries”, because I don’t have the money to travel the globe to do what he did. I did learn the valuable lesson that sometimes you can blindly trust in the kindness of strangers if you know what you are doing. Leon, the millionaire, left his home in Los Angeles with NO MONEY and traveled the globe. He got a first tank of gas from a man who encouraged him to make his point that there was kindness in the world. I thought he was crazy at first, then I realized he was trying to become “uncrazy”. He told of how all of his money couldn’t fulfill him. He got depressed and then he got out by looking within first. Doing things for others gave him purpose and passion and it’s much more than paying it forward. His was a complex way of making the world better. Leon didn’t just travel around giving money away. He rode around the globe on a yellow vintage motorcycle (Kindness One) that was in constant need of repair. Every day for a very long time, Leon went up to people he had never met and asked for a night’s lodging, gasoline, food and other necessities. Of course, most people said no. I don’t why, he had camera crew with him and it was just Leon

they were helping. The camera crew had an expenses account. The crew should have been a clue to say, “Yes.” Many of the people who did say yes, did not have a TV. Some did not have a home or even 1 star amenities. The people with the least shared the most. Leon was not exploiting them, he was secretly finding ways to reward them. Those that showed the least judgment and the most kindness received gifts and finances beyond their wild imaginings. He built a homeless Asian woman and her son a house. He gave a family who had many children a cow so they could have milk. He bought a man in India a new rickshaw so he could support his family. It was more than money he gave, it was hope and restoration. If we could all adopt even a tiny portion of what Leon Logothetis did, perhaps the world would be a better place. He took nothing with him but trust in humanity. That is more frightening and far more noble perhaps than climbing Mount Everest. When Leon couldn’t ride (oceans do get in the way), he hopped on freighters. He swabbed decks. He did what he had to do everywhere he went to show the world it could change. Could we all quit popping off occasionally and pop up to meet the needs of others? You don’t have to film it. You don’t have ride an ugly yellow motorcycle. You don’t have to be a millionaire. You just have to care.

CALENDAR From page 27

Charity Events, Golf Tournaments & Sports

MAY 6

– Camp Fire’s Kentucky Derby Party. Annual fundraiser for Camp Fire Sunshine. Watch the most exciting 2 minutes in sports while also enjoying a derby-inspired event with mint juleps, hors d’oeuvres, hat contest, auction and more. Located at Lone Palm Golf Club, Lakeland. Sat, 3-7 pm. To purchase tickets or more info (863) 688-5491 or www. campfirederby.com.

MAY 12

– Boots & BBQ Benefit. Join the Women’s Resource Center for a relaxing evening at their Boots & BBQ benefit event. Ticket includes a BBQ dinner, beverage/beer and entertainment by Coastal Barefoot Acoustic music (T Mike & Duke). Located The Barn at Azalea Oaks, 326 Gerber Dairy Rd, Winter Haven. Fri, 6-9 pm. Cost - $50. www. wrcfl.org for more info.

MAY 13

– Made in the Shade Family 5K. Benefit for the Made in the Shade campaign at Dale R. Fair Babson Park Elementary. Located at DRF BPE Campus, 815 N. Scenic Hwy, Babson Park. Sat, 8 am. Cost - $30 single, $100 family of 4. Registration at http://tiny.cc/ gnat5k

JUN 10

– 12th Annual Robin Nable Wagman “Against All Odds” Scholarship Foundation Golf Scramble. Located at Country Club of Winter Haven, 4200 Country Club Rd South, Winter Haven. Cost - $100 individual, $400 foursome, $50 Hole Sponsor, $425 foursome plus hole sponsor. Sat, 6:30 am registration. 8:30 am shot gun start. Call (863) 421-1003 for more info or www.robinwagmanaao.org for more info. May Schedule – Lakeland Flying Tigers Baseball. Located at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland. For weekly promotions and ticket info, call (863) 686-8075 or www.lakelandflyingtigers.com:

May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May

1 vs. Charlotte, 6:30 pm 2 vs. Charlotte, 6:30 pm 3 vs. Charlotte, 6:30 pm 4 vs. Charlotte, 10:30 am 11 vs. Florida, 6:30 pm 12 vs. Florida, 6:30 pm 13 vs. Florida, 6 pm 15 vs. St. Lucie, 6:30 pm 16 vs. St. Lucie, 10:30 pm 17 vs. St. Lucie, 6:30 pm 18 vs. St. Lucie, 6:30 pm 21 vs. Clearwater, 1 pm 22 vs. Palm Beach, 6:30 pm 23 vs. Palm Beach, 6:30 pm 24 vs. Palm Beach, 6:30 pm 25 vs. Palm Beach, 6:30 pm 26 vs. Dunedin, 6:30 pm 27 vs. Dunedin, 6 pm 28 vs. Dunedin, 1 pm

MAY 2017

SARA MICHAELS’

PORCH It’s been almost seven years since I was given the opportunity to write for Today & Tonight Magazine. The country music world has gone through some changes, some for the better… some for the worse. I have tremendous gratitude to Tracey, Chris, the staff of Today & Tonight Magazine, the advertisers, and the readers for allowing me such a fantastic opportunity to share with you my opinions on music. I can honestly tell you that I have never once expressed a view that I didn’t believe in. That may be a character defect of mine…I cannot and will never express ideas just to make someone else happy. I have to believe in what I’m selling. At times, I found myself at a loss of what to write about because nothing struck my fancy. Other times, the words just poured from my fingertips and I exceeded my limit of characters to which I was allotted. Sometimes music is just THAT GOOD. With that being said, I truly feel it’s time to pass the “Porch Torch” so to speak…for a fresh voice, new opinions and an opportunity for him to have the same type of exposure that I did. I asked our evening host Grant Starr if he would be interested in taking over my writing position for T&T magazine…he jumped at the offer! I didn’t want to ask just “anyone” to write for you guys. I wanted someone with integrity, passion, and honesty…Grant has 32 MAY 2017

all those characteristics and more. He is a completely genuine soul with a grasp on what is good music and a way to so eloquently express his thoughts and ideas. It is a win-win situation all around. So starting next month, you can expect a fresh new column about music from Grant! Now don’t fret, I asked Tracey & Chris for permission to drop an article their way every now and then, and they happily agreed. They have been so good to me, such a great local magazine with people who truly care about our community. That’s why Today & Tonight magazine works…and will continue to thrive and help our neighborhoods. No worries, you can still catch Tracey dishin’ out the social calendar every Tuesday on 97.5FM at 6:30pm on my show. Sometimes, one must step away to gather their thoughts, to refresh their passion. I believe it’s time for me to do just that. Thank you once again for picking up the magazine to flip through and read my article. Thank you for stopping me out and about and telling me how much you enjoyed reading it. I’m not gone, just taking a break. It’s time for me to sit back on the porch, sip some tea and enjoy Grant’s thoughts about music…I’ll enjoy that, and I know you will too! God Bless. BY SARA MICHAELS Host of “On The Porch” Monday - Friday, 3pm - 7pm 97 Country WPCV, 97.5 FM

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BARTENDER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM SEE PAGE 33 FOR DETAILS • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

POLK COUNTY’S

BELOVED BARTENDERS 2017 VOTE ONLINE AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM MISSY Mc NALLY

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CHAMPINN CHENIER RESTAUR O’S ITALIAN 6617 N SocruANT & PIZZERIA m Loop

18 Color

Vote

1st

SKING ALEX HO

2016 18 JULY

for your favorite BARTENDER today!

The top 10 voted bartenders will be featured in our 14th annual “Beloved Bartenders” issue, July 2017. Deadline for Ballots is June 16, 2017 (by 11:59pm).

____________________________________________________________________________ Full Name of Bartender (required) Nickname (if they have one) ____________________________________________________________________________ Venue (required) ____________________________________________________________________________ Venue Address ____________________________________________________________________________ City State Zip

14th

ANNUAL Beloved Bartender Blowout

Join the party as Today & Tonight Magazine celebrates two huge milestones including the magazine’s 13th Anniversary and many years of spotlighting Polk County’s most Beloved Bartenders with our July feature story. For over a decade, our widely popular people’s choice contest has been “toasting” the area’s best hospitality professionals, and over the years, we have received thousands of votes. We want to thank our readers for their continued support of Today & Tonight Magazine’s efforts! Let’s make the “14th Annual Beloved Bartenders” the biggest contest to date! Get out there and enjoy some great Polk nightlife and be sure to nominate your favorite bartender for a coveted spot on our honored list! Submitting your favorite bartender is easy. Each vote is important so submit your ballot by June 16th. Contest winners will be announced in the July edition. Good luck and happy drinking!

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MAY 2017

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THIS

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all-new Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden 34 MAY 2017

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