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MAY 2020 1
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MAY 2020
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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7
TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 16 Issue 10 May 2020 7
Classic Albums Live
8
Local Musicians, The Beat Goes On
12 Virtual Online Classes 16 Time To Vote For Your Favorite Bartender
COLUMNS: 11 What's Rustling
8
23 On-o-mato-poe-ia
10 Local Live Music 14 Snap Shotz 20 Restaurant Listing
STAFF
12
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:
CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE
COLUMNS TRACEY GREENE JAMES COULTER
Virtual Online Classes
THE FUN & AMUSING:
LISTINGS:
Expect More, Get More, We Deliver. Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor
Local Musicians, The Beat Goes On
15 Tracey's Tid-Bits
22 Crossword
Wow, what a time we are in right now. This is not how to start 2020. We are going to do our best to keep you up-to-date on what is happening in our county in regards to dining, events and entertainment. Please see our Facebook page for updates and information. These are trying times. We are glad to see that we are in phase 1 of getting back on track. Do your best to support "Mom & Pop" shops and restaurants during this time. Small business is the backbone of America so we WILL survive! Some events and functions are starting to reschedule for us to enjoy. Please contact the venues to confirm dates and times
Classic Albums Live
Jimmy's Jimmies?
22 Brain Exercise
EDITOR’S NOTE
ERICA SMITH
EDITORIAL
16
ERICA SMITH ELIZABETH MORRISEY
AMY SUMERLIN JAMES COULTER
PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS
Time To Vote For You Favorite Bartender
MIKE POTTHAST
SALES TRACEY GREENE - VP of Advertising BOB CURTIS - Senior Executive Media Director MELANIE BROWN - Advertising Representative WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR NEW SALES REPS. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE SEND INFO TO TRACEY@TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
Tell Us What You Think
SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO: Today & Tonight Magazine, PO BOX 2612, Winter Haven, FL 33883 Email: chris@todayandtonight.com. Letters must be signed, please include your town and phone number.
*Please note that due to the covid-19 virus, cancellations are still occurring. Please contact venues to confirm that events are still scheduled.
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MAY 2020
PUBLISHED BY: Today & Tonight, Inc. PO Box 2612 Winter Haven, FL 33883 Phone: 863.401.8001 email: chris@todayandtonight.com Reproduction in whole or in part of this magazine is prohibited without written permission from Today & Tonight, Inc. Copyright, 2020 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.
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Central Florida’s
Visitor Info CEN TER
GIFTS, TICKETS & LOCAL INSIGHTS
Ready to make the most of your weekends? Save on tickets to theme parks, grab local event listings, find new places to chow down, and more at your all-in-one resource for Central Florida fun.
101 Adventure Court, Davenport, FL 33837 | (800) 828-7655 Open: 8 am - 5 pm daily | VISITCENTRALFLORIDA.ORG/VIC
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The RP Funding Center Announces the Rescheduling of Two Performances The RP Funding Center announces the rescheduling of two performances of its 2020 Classic Albums Live concerts series. The number one album of 1970, The Music of Woodstock has been rescheduled for November 19th at 8 pm., and the Four-Time Grammy Award winning album, The Beatles, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band will be on December 19th at 8 pm. Tickets will be honored on the new date. If you have any questions, please contact the Box Office at 863-834-8111. The series pass is still available for all six concerts and will be available until July 16th. The rest of the series includes AC/DC Back and Black which sold over 50 million copies EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
worldwide and rocks the house on July 16th at 8 pm., the Two-Time Grammy Award winning album Billy Joel, The Stranger plays on August 13th at 8 pm., the Three-Time Platinum selling album The Who, Who’s Next on September 17th at 8 pm. and Fleetwood Mac, Rumours album which sold over 40 million copies worldwide plays on October 15th at 8 pm. Tickets are on sale now. Single ticket prices are $44, $33. The ticket price for the Series Pass is $162 for all six shows (service charges may apply) and includes Free parking, Preferred seating, and 10% off concessions. Series Passes are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Office,
toll-free 888-397-0100, and online at www. rpfundingcenter.com. Dates and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.
MAY 2020 7
LOCAL MUSICIANS The Beat Goes On! by James Coulter Due to the stay-at-home order brought about by the COVID-19 outbreak, most Floridians have been staying at home. This includes many musicians who rely on performances at local establishments for their income. However, many have remained productive during the lockdown. Here’s how many local artists have been spending their free time:
MARCUS BRIXA Guitarist, Singer-Song Writer, Teacher When not performing guitar at local venues, he’s either repairing instruments or teaching guitar lessons at Carlton Music Center. Though the outbreak has prevented him from performing in person, it has not prevented him from doing what he otherwise normally does. Marcus has been hosting lessons via Zoom, and he repairs instruments delivered to him. As for performances, while he cancelled his gigs over the next three months, he’s considering the free time a blessing for his creative output by recording, writing, and composing new music. Marcus has participated in several jam sessions on-line. However, he misses being able to perform at live venues, especially during this time of year. He loves spring, as it’s the ideal weather for performing at outdoor venues like Bok Tower Gardens. He’s hoping his gigs will continue around the fall, another season with ideal performing weather. “Not being able to meet with people personally has been a challenge, [as well as] learning how to make the [social] distancing valuable,” he said. “I love playing and interacting with people. I miss doing that.” 8
MAY 2020
DUKE BURR B Haven, T Mike & Duke Fortunately for him, Duke and the rest of the members of B Haven have other jobs they can work during the outbreak while their gigs were canceled. Glen Carlton owns Carlton’s Music Center, another band member works there, and Duke runs his own printing company. While his work may have slowed down, he still maintains a consistent daily practice regiment. He has more than 50 years of music memorized, and he owes that ability to practicing every single day. After all, practice makes perfect! He and his bandmates had recorded one song from their homes and uploaded it to Facebook where it has received well over a thousand views. As for their gigs, while they have been forced to cancel, they still support their local venues by ordering takeout from the eateries. Duke hopes that things will eventually go back to normal. However, he’s concerned about how eateries and other venues will adapt following the pandemic, and whether the potential changes made will be sustainable enough to pay for a live band. Moreover, he wonders how much he can trust those in charge to let them know what’s going on in the world, especially with COVID19. “There are so many narratives spinning out around there you don’t know what to believe,” he said. “You can’t believe anything. You hear these things on the media, and you are wondering what the truth is.”
LAURIE & RUSTY WRIGHT DUO Laurie & Rusty Wright Duo, The Rusty Wright Band As a traveling duo, Laurie and Rusty Wright have been hit hard by the pandemic. Their first week of cancellations cost them $13,000 alone, Rusty explained. Since then, they’ve shifted their focus to selling merchandise. They have expanded their sales, as well as added new items and services, including personalized songs and a restoration music club. Recently, the two have hosted carport concerts from their home, entertaining their neighbors who drive up in their golf carts to see them, most of them maintaining social distancing by remaining six feet apart and wearing their masks. While they have been able to host the occasional live streaming performances, they do not feel it provides the same personal connection as performing before a live audience and interacting with fans afterward. “We both believe that this is a big part of the future,” Laurie explained. “Live music may not come back for a long time, at least not on a large level. Until there is a vaccine, I think people will be consuming their music in live streaming.”
ADRIENNE RICHARDS Acoustic Dose, Free Whiskey Her last performance before the outbreak was at Cherry Pocket in Lake Wales on St. Patrick’s Day. She hasn’t performed since then. While other artists have streamed their performances on-line, she hasn’t quite taken that dip into the virtual realm. Currently, she’s working on a project with Travis Williams to create a new album. She’s
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also collaborating with other artists, each of them writing and recording a new song to release on-line. Otherwise, Adrienne has utilized her free time to try her hands on other hobbies, reading a book here, baking in her kitchen there. Recently, she joined in a virtual baking session with her mother in Canada and brother in Oregon, each of them baking biscuits and trying them out for themselves through video chatting. While she’s still able to exercise her musical abilities through practicing and songwriting, Adrienne misses being able to connect with people by performing live. Like every other artist, she hopes the outbreak will eventually pass and she will be able to perform again. “I miss the people,” she said. “I am a people person. I love my friends, I love my town, and it is very strange to ride around downtown and drive by all the places we used to hang out, and everyone was abruptly stopped. It is strange to not be around my friends but in time we will come back.”
MICHEAL LUBECKE LuBeck, Iconic Opera Micheal “LuBeck” Lubecke performs four to six shows a week, and tours at least once or twice a month. One week, he’ll be performing along the crystal clear waters of the Gulf; the other, along the salty surf of the Atlantic. However, as soon as the outbreak fell, he was immediately notified by most of his booking agencies that his upcoming performances were dried up, though his prospects remain hopeful, he said. “I have been assured by at least the east coast people that my schedule will remain the same,” he said. “So as soon as the quarantine, and the people start moving back out, apparently, I will be able to stick with my regular shows and tour schedules, which is fortunate.” Since then, he’s kept himself busy and productive. He has worked on various albums for other people, and has released seven which he had co-produced. Otherwise, he’s used the free time allotted to him to finally getting around to repairing stage EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
and sound equipment. To entertain himself, he’s been watching plenty of his favorite sci-fi flicks, and he’s been organizing and sorting through his antiques collection. As someone who tours up and down each of the Florida coasts, he misses being able to visit the beach. Whenever he performed at his venues, he’d take the opportunity to visit the sandy shores and surf for fishing and Frisbees. “I love my beach gigs,” he said. “I am an old sand dog...I look forward to that freedom of using the places that I play at, and when I am at the beach, I am constantly playing there.”
SCOTT HOOKER While many other musicians rely on their performances for their income, Scott Hooker is an “essential worker” who plays music on the side. Fortunately enough, his normal job has allowed him to continue making a living even during the outbreak. Many of his performances at live venues were canceled, but he’s still been able to perform with the occasional concert from his living room via Facebook Live. When not performing online, he has used his free time to experiment with music and write new songs. “I find myself with a lot of free time on my hands,” he said. “It is a great opportunity for a creative outlet, and I have been writing a lot more.” However, he knows that other musicians are not as fortunate enough as him. He knows that many of them rely on their performances as their meal ticket. As such, he has done his part to help highlight them and show them support and solidarity through these uncertain times. As with most other artists and musicians, he misses being able to perform before an audience and interacting with the people. He misses being able to visit local establishments like Swan Brewery in Lakeland, and he hopes to do so again soon. “Just getting out there and performing again, getting back and not only performing but patronizing them,” he said. “I plan on hitting as many local businesses as humanly possible because I know they are suffering right now and hurting.”
GEERT D’HOLLANDER Carillonneur, Bok Tower Gardens Unlike other musicians, Geert D’hollander is always far from his fans. The player’s cabin is located at the top of Bok Tower Gardens’ Singing Tower, and he plays to listeners 205 feet below. The Gardens closed to the public in mid-March a few short weeks before the Easter Sunrise Service. Working collaboratively with his colleagues, he quickly began making plans to broadcast concerts to the public using Facebook Live. “The first concerts were a bit of disaster,” he said. “We had to learn an entirely new way to share our carillon concerts.” After much experimentation and several failed attempts, he is now sharing three concerts a week to audiences around the world. He is also performing the first ever-musical game show on Fridays that provides an opportunity for those at home to try to name that Tower tune. While these concerts are providing a distraction, “I miss the visitors who greet me after my daily concerts the most,” he said. The Bok Tower Gardens team was able to broadcast the 94th Annual Easter Sunrise Service via Facebook Live. More than 60,000 people have viewed the service, making it the largest concert in the history of the Gardens. “It was incredible to see how many people were impacted by our message of hope,” he said. He has also been instructing an aspiring carillon musician during the quarantine. “I have plenty of time now for mentoring and arranging,” he said. “I have to arrange more music now to keep our concerts fresh and exciting for people at home.” “If we cannot get the people to the Gardens, we have to get this beautiful music to the people,” he said. “I am now playing for squirrels.”
MAY 2020 9
SIXX L SIXX (Swan Brewing, LKD) COLT FORD (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD)
SUNDAY, JUN 14
MAY/JUNE CONCERT CALENDAR MAY 1, 2020 PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO COVID-19, ALL BARS/CLUBS ARE TEMPORARILY CLOSED
FRIDAY, MAY 15
THE ROCKIN’
T MIKE & DUKE
VAGRANTS
(Frescos, LKD)
AND LAX
SATURDAY, MAY 16
SHANE MEADE &
BY THE GOVERNOR UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. AT THIS TIME, RESTAURANTS ARE OFFERING LIMITED INDOOR/ OUTDOOR SEATING AS WELL AS TO-GO SERVICES FOR FOOD AND BEVERAGES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PLEASE CHECK FACEBOOK PAGES TO CONFIRM THAT
T MIKE & DUKE
THURSDAY, MAY 7 MICKENZIE PEISHER (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
FRIDAY, MAY 8 RED HOT ROOSTER (Tanners Lakeside, WH) THE BLUE ROOSTERS (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) T MIKE & DUKE (Tempo 1930, WH)
SUNDAY, MAY 10
FOLEY & BURNS (Tanners Lakeside, WH)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13
SUNDAY, MAY 17
B. HAVEN
TUESDAY, JUN 16
(Fire Restaurant, WH)
(RP Funding Center, LKD)
SUNDAY, MAY 24
SUNDAY, MAY 31
WEDNESDAY, JUN 17
JOEY FOLEY
B. HAVEN
(Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
(Tanners Lakeside, WH)
MR. ED & FRIENDS
LIVE HART
MICAH MADORE DUO (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) TRAVIS WILLIAMS
(Tanners Lakeside, WH)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 21 MICKENZIE PEISHER
(Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
FRIDAY, MAY 22 RED HOT ROOSTER (Tanners Lakeside, WH) FOLEY & BURNS (Tanners Lakeside, WH) HARLEQUIN (Leo’s Live, LKD) T MIKE & DUKE (Twisted Prop, WH)
SATURDAY, MAY 23
MICKENZIE PEISHER
(Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) RUMOR HAZIT (Fireside Lounge, DVPT)
(Leo’s Live, LKD) ALANIS MORISSETTE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27
WEDNESDAY, JUN 3
MR. ED & FRIENDS
MR. ED & FRIENDS
(Leo’s Live, LKD)
(Leo’s Live, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 28
FRIDAY, JUN 5
MICKENZIE PEISHER
DISASTERPIECE
(Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
(Leo’s Live, LKD)
FRIDAY, MAY 29
(Tempo 1930, WH)
10,000 PAPERCUTS (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) JADE & DUKE (HC Finally Friday, HC) SPF 60 (Leo’s Live, LKD)
T MIKE & DUKE
SATURDAY, JUN 6 HARLEQUIN (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) UNCLE JOHNS BAND
RENDITION (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) LEI LAILA, NOAN
PHAIR (MidFlorida CU Amp, TMP)
FRIDAY, JUN 26 RUMOR HAZIT (Apple Lounge, WH) CRYSTAL DAGGER w/ DAN RODZ & LINDSEY BROWN (1845 Taphouse, DVPT) JANET JACKSON (Amway Center, ORL)
ANDY SHREEVE
SATURDAY, JUN 27
(Frescos, LKD)
WONDERLAND (Out-n-About Bar, DUN)
WEDNESDAY, JUN 10
SOUTHERN ROCKS
THE DOOBIE
FINEST
BROTHERS
(Music Ranch, LKD)
(MidFlorida CU
JANET JACKSON
Amp, TMP)
PARTLY, LAUREN MATTHEWS,
wsg GARBAGE, LIZ
(Swan Brewing, LKD)
SATURDAY, MAY 30
WONDERLAND
AGGIE ROAD
MAY 2020
(Fireside Lounge, DVPT)
(Amway Center, ORL)
RECITAL
(Swan Brewing, LKD)
THURSDAY, MAY 14
10
BLUE COLLAR BAND
CODE ORANGE
JOHNNY DEBT
FOLEY, BURNS &
(Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
(Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD)
UNDEROATH,
BRYAN MAYS
(The Brass Tap, LKD)
MR. ED & FRIENDS (Leo’s Live, LKD)
SECKOND CHAYNCE
A DAY TO REMEMBER,
CAROL GRAYSON
(Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
JOSH BLEVINS
STRIZZO,
(Tempo 1930, WH)
(Brew Hub, LKD)
SATURDAY, MAY 9 MICAH MADORE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) THE BROKE (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC)
THE SOUND
(Tanners Lakeside, WH)
THESE EVENTS ARE STILL SCHEDULED.
(Music Ranch, LKD)
SLIPKNOT wsg
FRIDAY, JUN 12
SANDI M. TUTTLE
RUMOR HAZIT
(Pink Piano, LKD)
(Apple Lounge, WH)
(Amalie Arena, 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.
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The System's Out Of Order
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A wise person once said that “it’s during the worst times of your life that you will get to see the true colors of the people who say they care for you.” There’s no doubt the COVID-19 crisis has been the worst time of many people’s lives; and through it, we’ve seen the true colors of the people who run the system and how much they care about us. To quote a line from Michael Jackson, “They don’t really care about us”! Currently, COVID-19 has resulted in more than 690,000 confirmed cases and 36,000 deaths in America. That’s only a rough estimate! The total number could be 10 times greater “due to limited testing capacity, testing errors, and difficulty tracing asymptomatic cases”, as reported by Business Insider. Unfortunately, far too many Americans are less afraid of getting sick and more worried about paying to get better. S&P Global estimates the outbreak could cost $30 billion at the least or $90 billion at the most in insured medical expenses. Either way, these estimates are not good in a country where 8.5% of people are uninsured and nearly half depend upon their employers for health insurance coverage. Speaking of employment, more than one in ten workers have lost their job, with a record 16.8 million seeking jobless aid since the crisis started, the Associated Press reports. Those with jobs fare no better. More than half of Americans aren’t “financially prepared” to take time off from work; only 29% can work from home, and even the 73% who have paid sick leave don’t have enough money to take off work for more than two weeks, according to CNBC. So how have our politicans— the people we put in charge of the system to help us!—helped us during our time of need? They passed a $2.2 trillion stimulus package, which includes $500
billion in corporate bailouts. How will this help the average American rather than simply line the pockets of wealthy elites? Eh! Something, something, trickle-down economics...something, something, “a rising tide lifts all boats”...something, something, wibbly wobbly, timey wimey. Also, shut up! On the bright side, at least the deal also includes $1,200 stimulus checks to tax-paying Americans. Sure, most Americans won’t receive their checks right away due to bureaucratic incompetence. And, sure, just under one in three Americans say the amount won’t be enough to sustain them for a full month, according to MarketWatch. But, hey, beggars can’t be choosers! And to most politicans, if we’re not rich corporate donors, we’re all lowly peasants who need to stop complaining and graciously accept our scraps, right?! Look, I’m not a radical. I’m not calling for revolution. I’m not demanding we tear down the system and rebuild it from scratch. What I am saying is that this pandemic has revealed severe cracks in our system that we desperately need to patch. Because none of this is normal! It’s not normal to force people to choose between dying from a preventable disease or going bankrupt. It’s not normal to force people to work in life-threatening circumstances because they’re afraid of going broke. It’s not normal for people to risk death because they can’t afford healthcare or take time off of work. It’s not normal for a system “of the people, by the people, and for the people” to value profit over people. No, I’m not out of order. You’re out of order. This whole freakin’ system is out of order. The system is broken and we need to fix it. QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Info@todayandtonight.com MAY 2020 11
VIRTUAL
ONLINE
CLASSES by Elizabeth Morrisey When non-essential businesses had to
close due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Sonya Cheatwood knew she had to think out-
side the box for her dance studio to con-
tinue thriving. As owner of Esprit Dance Academy in Auburndale, she turned to
Zoom to continue teaching dance class-
es each week during lockdown. Zoom, a video conferencing platform, has been a
lifesaver for many business owners in the area.
Cheatwood, who had to close her doors
mid-March, found out about Zoom and
started online classes right away. “They
are live classes and it provides structure
for the kids,” she says. “It’s an awesome tool to give them the same feelings they
are used to – working together with their
friends.” She’s able to continue with com-
petition team rehearsals, finish recital choreography and hold technique classes.
Many other types of businesses have
turned to Zoom during these unprece-
dented times from Realtors to teachers and
churches to doctors. It is helping keep their 12
MAY 2020
Esprit Dance Academy has a dance class online.
businesses alive and connecting them to
day.”
fapps.com, Zoom is currently seeing 200
from a basic package for free, $15 per
pared to only 10 million in December 2019.
for large businesses. Cheatwood pays $15
the community. According to businessomillion daily meeting participants comLocal Realtor Daniela Zoppe joined
Zoom recently to consult with clients, hold office meetings and participate in train-
Zoom offers four pricing tiers ranging
month for smaller groups or $20 per month per month and has about 30 students log in each weekday.
She finds that it is simple to use, but it
ing. “It’s kept everything alive,” she says.
seems to work best for dance on a comput-
“My production numbers would be down,
being able to “spotlight” different dancers
“Without it we would be disconnected.
but now I’m connecting with others every
er instead of a phone or tablet. She enjoys during class to motivate them even more.
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Keeping Small Businesses Alive During the Covid-19 Pandemic “I saw a change in them,” she explains.
her daughter improve her flexibility and
same thing and it boosted their work
self to meet with her 4th grade students
“They could see their friends doing the ethic.”
Courtney Howell, Auburndale resi-
dent and 4th grade math teacher, logs
her 7-year-old daughter onto Zoom every day for dance class with Esprit Dance
Academy. “I think it’s a great way to pro-
She had never used Zoom as a teach-
dance skills. Howell also uses Zoom her-
ing tool, but the Florida Southern College
each week. “I Zoomed three times last
over to the online platform to continue her
week for a fun class meeting and then had sessions to answer questions from my students,” says Howell. “They can see each
other and it provides a sense of classroom
ceramics professor decided to transition
classes. Eason also uses it to teach evening art journaling classes with watercolor for her personal business.
The professional artist’s work is for sale,
community.”
but business is slow. Increasing her online
normalcy,” she says. “Their day-to-day
to teach classes from her art studio and
“People are excited about continuing (their
It’s a comfort for the kids.”
used it for some meetings, but didn’t real-
vide Charlotte and other kids with some
schedules have been flipped upside down. Charlotte also enjoys seeing her friends.
Howell feels like the stretching classes and seeing the older girls each day has helped
Artist Rachelle Eason is utilizing Zoom
bringing people together. She previously
ize its full potential until now. “It’s a great way to get people together. Not everyone has FaceTime.”
classes helped compensate for her losses. art) at home. I’m glad to inspire people during this time.”
In March Pastor Brent Wernsing, with
Kairos Church, had his first staff meeting
on Zoom. It helped them to continue doing business while staying home. “It helps us
feel like we are there with one another,” he says.
The church’s student ministry has been
able to meet in large groups and then
Zoom accommodates breakout rooms so the middle schoolers and high schoolers can still meet separately. “The kids can
meet and see each other. The meetings can also go live on YouTube and Facebook.” Zoom is not only being used for busi-
nesses but also for get togethers among friends around the world. Cheatwood
recently gathered some of her students
together to just reconnect and play some
games. “It’s providing a new way to connect during social distancing. Zoom has
held together so many people worldwide and I’m thankful for it,” she says.
Artist Rachelle Eason is utilizing Zoom to teach classes from her art studio.
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MAY 2020 13
SNAPSHOTZ Call your favorite bar for more information!
MAY 1, 2020 PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO COVID-19, ALL BARS/CLUBS ARE TEMPORARILY CLOSED BY THE GOVERNOR UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. AT THIS TIME, RESTAURANTS ARE OFFERING LIMITED INDOOR/OUTDOOR SEATING AS WELL AS TO-GO SERVICES FOR FOOD AND BEVERAGES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
AUBURNDALE
Presented By Brew Hounds Sports Lounge Mulligan’s Sports Bar Bartow Golf Club 150 N. Idlewood (863) 533-1668 Fri, Karaoke 7-10p The Wine Stable 150 S. Broadway (863) 533-9463 Full Bar Live Music
DAVENPORT Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350 Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 102 W. Polk Street (863) 968-0010 Full Liquor Sports Bar TVs for the Games
Fireside Lounge & Billiards 43356 Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 2-7p Live Music
Bottoms Up Sports Bar 419 E. Bridgers Ave (863) 845-2913 Karaoke, Pool Tables Beer & Wine Find Us On Facebook
The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880 TVs, Pool Table Darts, Jukebox Wed & Sat, Karaoke 9p
Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd. (863) 967-2739 Mon-Fri, $3 Craft Beers 5-7p Wed, Trivia 6p Pool, Darts, Full Liquor Sunday Ticket
BABSON PARK Crooked Bass Grill/Tavern 1010 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 589-5887 Full Liquor Seafood, Steaks & Burgers Live Music Fri & Sat Pool Table & Darts
BARTOW Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 East Van Fleet Drive (863) 534-3111 Full Liquor Sports Bar Fun Bar 3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400 Karaoke Pool Table & Darts
14
MAY 2020
The Wheelhouse/19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560 Tue & Fri, Karaoke 9p Thu, Trivia 8-10p
DUNDEE Out-n-About Bar (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537 Tue, Fri, Sat & Sun, Live Music Tue, Tacos 1/2 price w/purch. Wed, Wings 1/2 price w/purch. Wed & Sun, Karaoke Thu, Ladies Night
FROSTPROOF P & J Recreation 33 South Scenic Hwy (863) 635-9825 Home of Famous Slaw Burger! Full Liquor
HAINES CITY Amos Tavern 200 US Highway 17 92 N (863) 422-1459 Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Blvd (863) 588-3097 Open to the Public! Patio Dining & Full Bar Daily Food & Drink Specials Locals Food Discount! Fri, Sat & Sun Music on Patio Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Karaoke, Darts, Billiards Live Bands Happy Hour 12-7p Shady Cove Bar & Grill 7140 State Road 544 E. (863) 421-6800 Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 4-7p Open Daily 12p Daily AUCE Food Specials Daily Drink Specials Live Music Sunset Tavern & Package 1030 Marion Lk Rd W (863) 695-8650 Mon & Fri, Karaoke 6p Tue, Hpy Hr All Day! Sat, DJ Stoner 2p Sun, Live Music 2p
LAKE ALFRED LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F
LAKELAND
FT. MEADE
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
Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s South 4810 S FL Ave (863) 646-7757
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TID BITS TRACEY’S
By Tracey Greene
RONNIE
Ronnie is a brown and black male Domestic Shorthair mix. He is approximately 6 months old and has been neutered. Ronnie is a very friendly cat that loves attention. He likes to talk back to you and enjoys getting his neck scratched. He is a sweet playful boy who may occasionally give you a love bite. Ronnie is only okay with some cats but would prefer to be your one and only love.
Celebrations 'Rona Style' COVID-19 has caused millions to become sick, thousands to die, and economies to come to a crashing halt! Social-distancing has become our norm and day-to-day life has become a little more sterile, a little smaller, and a little more, well, confined!
that doesn’t get that BIG celebration on becoming a new teenager; the person turning the BIG 4-0 alone, the couple marking their 65th wedding anniversary, and the WWII/Korean War Vet that turned 100 years old who’s party was canceled and now
GINGER
Ginger is an orange male Domestic Shorthair mix. He is approximately 2 years, 8 months old. He is a little shy at first but is sweet once he gets to know you. He likes to toy with you and like Ronnie will give a love bite after about 3 pets. He usually hides when new people come into the house so he needs time to come around. Ginger does like cat nip and Temptation treats.
PORK CHOP
In these days that can feel a little dark and a little lonely, social media and social platforms are the light of hope that many need…the need to connect to others. Ways in which we typically connect are through special occasions and events; holidays, birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries are at the top of the list. COVID-19 has stolen these special times from us. Weddings are being postponed or continuing in under-whelming areas with less than ten people. Holidays are shared inside with immediate family that live in the same households. Special momentous birthdays and anniversaries are being over-looked or shared via Facebook and other live social media platforms, but you can’t share a piece of cake through a computer monitor... It can seem so petty, in the ‘Rona days, to be caught up in little disappointments such as missing a birthday or an anniversary or Easter dinner but sometimes it’s all that people have. It’s really more about the connections that these special days throughout the year bring about, and it reminds us what we, as a society, are losing each and every day the longer this pandemic persists: a bride crushed to have her dream wedding postponed, at the last minute, after a year of planning; the 13-year-old girl
forced to celebrate via Facebook. Where will he be in a year? These moments are being stolen and we must adapt to find new ways to celebrate. I too have now fallen into this category of experiencing a ‘Rona Celebration. Many know that I love events, celebrations, parties and birthdays…especially my own! Some people hide from aging, some people dismiss the day, I have always embraced it…April 22 is Tracey Day, it’s my day – a happy day, also shared with Earth Day, which for me is a win-win! This year was a BIG year to celebrate. It’s the BIG 5-0. I had been planning different ideas and elements throughout the year. As mid-March rolled around, and the pandemic took hold, I knew that birthday celebrations would be on the back burner, little by little all hope disappeared; the intimate dinner with friends hosted by my dad at our favorite restaurant was replaced with me receiving a brand new shot gun. The party I wanted to host in celebration of me and also raising money for the Humane Society…only a memory! My weekend away to spend time with my mom and step-dad; not happening. And the biggest was our group trip to New Orleans in late May which was
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Pork Chop is a tan and black male Black Mouth Cur mix. He is approximately 2 years old. Pork Chop is a very goofy and lovable dog. He has never been around children especially smaller children or cats and prefers to be the only dog in the house. Pork Chop is very eager to meet you and will jump up on new people. We are working on him to learn better manners.
TOW TRUCK
Tow Truck is a tan and black male Black Mouth Cur mix. He is approximately 2 years old and has been neutered. He is a sweet but hyper dog that loves attention. Tow Truck also loves getting treats and enjoys being petted and loved on. He was hit by a car and had to have his front right leg amputated so he is a tripod dog.
The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227 Tuesday-Friday 11:30-6pm and Sat 10-4 pm.
Veterinarian of the Month Devon Watts was born and raised in Winter Haven, Florida and lived there his whole life until he left to pursue a bachelors in Marine Biology at University of West Florida. His interest in animals has been present since a very young age and he frequently visited zoos and animal exhibits at any wildlife themed park in the area. He attended University of West Florida for his bachelors of science in marine biology with a focus on preparing for the possibility of vet school. While there he spent time working at the Pensacola Humane Society both as a volunteer and a kennel technician and one particular animal became ill and observing his treatment cemented his desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. He graduated from St. George's University in January of 2019 and has been practicing at Heart of Florida Animal Hospital since February. In his free time he likes to build and paint models for tabletop games, play games with friends and watch movies usually with his pothound Soursop close by.
Dr. Watts
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MAY 2020
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SNAPSHOTZ Fresco’s Bistro 132 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7 Monthly Pairings Great Bistro Fare Late Menu/Full bar Live Music
Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs Brewlands Bar & Billiards N. 5161 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-2038 Smoke-Free Billiards/ Sports Bar 20 Pool Tables, Dart Boards Game Room, Full Kitchen Open Daily, Full Liquor Brewlands Bar & Billiards S. 5733 S FL Ave (863) 646-2600 Pool & Billiard Sports Hall Full Liquor Bar Open Daily Sun & Wed, S.I.N. Night Thu, Ladies Night
EMAIL US YOUR
SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE NEXT ISSUE
Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Daily Specials 2-10p; Mon, Tacos/Tue, Buff. Shrmp Tue/Thu, BOGO Bud/ Bud Light Btls Wed, Boneless Wings Fri, Grouper Sand./ Sat, Wings Cob & Pen 1221 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8126 Craft Beer & Wine Full Liquor Bar Food/Light Food Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E. Edgewood Dr Suite G (863) 686-6441 Duke’s Brewhouse 4960 S Florida Ave (863) 647-9464 Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music Even Par Sports Bar Oak Plaza North 5100 US Hwy 98 N (863) 816-7995 Happy Hr 4-6p Daily Sports Packages $12 Buckets
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Gator’s Dockside Highland City 5135 S.R. 98 (863) 619-7627 Food, Full Bar Open late night Hookah Palace 122 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 Hrs: Thu-Sat, 4p-2a Thu, Latin Nite w/DJ Fri & Sat, DJ Isle of Capri 541 S Combee Rd (863) 665-6246 Food, Beer/Wine Hpy Hr 3-6p; $1.50 Drft Wed, Ladies Night 7p Pool Tourn, Karaoke Lakeland Loft 108 South Tennessee Ave (863) 210-5327 Full Liquor Jazz & Cigar Lounge Business Casual Sun –Thu Dress to Impress Fri & Sat Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl) 4318 US Hwy 98 N (863) 858-3878 Mon, Poker 7p Wed, Poker 11a 1st Thu, Karaoke Contest 1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer 1853 E. Memorial Blvd (863) 583-9119 Hpy Hr 2-7p Tue, Karaoke Wed, $5 Burgers Fri, Ladies/Latin Night Sun, 50 cent Wings
The Pink Piano 1015 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas Revival Bar 119 S Kentucky Ave (863) 606-6090 Open 12p Daily/Smoke-Free Craft Cocktail Bar Vintage Cocktails, Beers Relaxed Seating Areas Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S. Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor T A Slammers 1011 S. Florida Ave (863) 682-4178 Full Liquor Nightly Specials T-Bows 33 Lounge 4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd (863) 683-1201 Happy Hr 4-6p; $2.75 Wells, $2.25 20oz Drafts Wed-Sat, Karaoke 9p Wally’s Pool Hall 1136 E. Main St (863) 688-4460 Hpy Hr, Mon-Sat 11-7p Mon, 9-Ball Tourn Tue & Thu, APA 8 & 9-Ball Thu, Ladies Nite w/free pool Winner’s Circle 4215 South Florida Ave. (863) 644-9464 Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p
Ybor Cigars & Spirits 5263 S. Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music
LAKE WALES Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 241-3070 Sat, $1 Drafts All Star Grill 2019 Hwy. 60 E (863) 679-9689 Sports Bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak 3100 Canal Rd (863) 439-2031 Seafood, Full Liquor Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p Thu, Fri & Sat, Music 6-10p Gator Mack’s Sports Bar Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Open 7 Days Tue-Sat, 4-10p Food Avail. Full Bar, Music Darts, Pool Tables Outdoor Patio The Good Spot 3825 N. Scenic Hwy (863) 949-4243 Sat, Ladies Night 7p-cl Sun, Karaoke 3p Darts, Pool Table
Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri
MAY 2020 17
SNAPSHOTZ JayBees Rest. & Lounge 8625 Hwy 60 E (863) 696-1901 Full Liquor Lunch & Dinner Open Mon-Sat Y’all Come Back Saloon 3230 State Rd 60 E (863) 676-5759 Taco Tues, $1 Live Music/Pool
RIVER RANCH Westgate River Ranch Saloon 3200 River Ranch Blvd. Restaurant/Saloon General/Western Store (863) 692-1321 ext 40013 Fri, DJ 6p-12a Sat, Live Band 6p-1a
WINTER HAVEN AJ Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 875 5623 Pub, Pool Hall, Karaoke Darts, Full Liquor
Central Tavern 273 W Central Ave (863) 229-5027 Open Daily 12p Full Bar Smoke-Free Outside Patio Duke’s Brewhouse 1708 6th Street SE (863) 576-9464 Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music Fire Restaurant 325 W. Central Ave (863) 875-5544 Wed, Fire Jass Trio Sun, Brunch Gary’s Grove 2995 Cypress Gardens Rd (863) 325-0001 Mon, Live Music Fri, Karaoke Grape Expectations 535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 318-8800 Wine Bar Smoke-Free
Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW (863) 291-0700 Apple Lounge Food Truck & Live Music 2803 Recker Hwy Wed-Fri 4p, Sat-Sun 12p (863) 291-0340 2nd Wed, Moonlight Mrkt Happy Hr, Mon-Fri 11-7p Craft Beer & Wine Food Avail./Daily Specials Smoke-Free Mon, Pool Tourn Poker, Karaoke, Bands Harborside Restaurant Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 West Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Mon-Sat, 4p Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4:306:30p Sat, Hpy Hr 5-6:30p Full Menu/Full Bar Smoke-Free Barrel239 239 3rd St SW (863) 229-7740 Whiskey Bar Open Daily Drink Specials 1-4p Smoke-Free Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Pub 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special
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2435 7th Street SW (863) 293-7070 Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-5:30p Waterfront Dining High Seas Lounge 7000 State Rd 544 (863) 299-2233 Great Food/Drink Specials Live Music Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW (863) 298-6755 Outdoor Patio Thu, Live Music Smoke-Free Jessie’s Lounge 118 3rd Street SW (863) 298-9815 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p Mon, Free Pool Wed, Big Ass Jam Night Live Music Weekly Smoke-Free
Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767 Happy Hr 12-7 Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue, Fri, Sat - Poker Pool Tables, Darts & Golden Tee Old Man Frank’s 1005 S. Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179 Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p Daily Specials, Oyster Bar Fiesta Wed w/$1Tacos Thu Specials at Oyster Bar Sun, Live Music Past Time Lounge 1605 1st St S (863) 293-0027 Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table Slate 8 Family Billiards 20 4th Street NW (863) 247-8899 Smoke Free Pool Hall Open Daily, Outdoor Patio Full Bar, Food Available Wed - Dart Tourn 7p FB@Slate8Pool Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524 Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily Beer Specials/Sports Packages Lunch Specials Mon-Fri Tanner’s Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 662-5948 Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Wed, 1/2 Price Wines Sun, Fam Jam 12-6p/Music 2p 2nd Sun. Brunch 11:30-2p Union Taproom 245 W Central Ave, ST 102 (863) 268-4921 Open Tue-Thu 3-10p, Fri & Sat 12-11p, Sun 12-7p 40 Self Pour Taps; Craft Brews, Ciders, Wine, Cold Brew Coffee, And Kombucha Winter Haven’s Bar Off The Chain 1560 Havendale Blvd NW (863) 299-5515 Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4-7p Mon, Free Pool 6-8p Wed, Karaoke 6p Fri, Bike Night 6-8p Fri & Sat, Bands 8p
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special moment perfect location. YOUR
DESERVES THE
WEDDINGS AT BOK TOWER GARDENS
The sun streams through a canopy of trees to illuminate lush plants and delicate blooms. The gentle sound of the wind carries the songs of many birds as the enchanting sounds of 60 carillon bells resonate throughout the gardens. For a wedding experience as amazing as the location, plan your once-in-a-lifetime event at Bok Tower Gardens and experience your perfect wedding day and reception in a truly natural setting, making memories that last forever.
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1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG
MAY 2020 19
POLK COUNTY’S
RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT DUE TO COVID-19, PLEASE CONTACT RESTAURANTS FOR DETAILS.
AUBURNDALE TANTRUMS LAKESIDE GRILL
This is a one of a kind, waterfront, casual dining experience where you can enjoy well-prepared food, water sports in action and a beautiful sunset on our multi-level covered deck overlooking Lake Myrtle in Auburndale. Delicious Seafood and more . . . featuring Oyster and Shrimp Po'Boys.We also have a large selection of Hand-dipped Ice cream, beer, wine and specialty beverages. Hours - Open Everyday at 11:00 am Must try: Gator Bites, Oyster Nachos, and Shrimp & Grit Cakes 330 Denton Avenue, Auburndale 863-875-3974
HAINES CITY BALMORAL BAR & GRILL AT BALMORAL RESORT
BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH LAKELAND
Great Food! Great Sports! Great Family Fun! 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Game Plan Saturdays. 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Coldest Beer In Town. Kids Eat Free Tuesdays & Sundays 4-8 pm. Now Featuring A Full Liquor Bar. Must Try: Our Delicious Fajitas and Awesome Burgers 4810 South Florida Ave (863) 646-7757 www.beefobradys.com
CHAMPS SPORTS BAR
Serving Polk County for over 20 years! Cold Beer • Great Food • Family Fun • Best Wings in Town Independently delicious! Daily specials from 2-10 pm: Monday 60¢Tacos, Tuesday $5 Buffalo Shrimp, Wednesday 45¢ Boneless Wings, Tuesday & Thursday BOGO Bud & Bud Light Bottles, Friday, $9 Grouper Sandwich (All Day), Saturday 75¢ Wings (All Day).Hours: Mon.-Thurs, Sat. & Sun. 11 am to 10 pm. Fri. 11 am to midnight. Follow us on Facebook. FB@ChampsGrill 6645 S. Florida Ave. 863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com
Offering a casual dining environment complete with poolside outdoor seating, the Balmoral Bar & Grill serves up poolside lunches, afternoon drinks and evening meals. Popular among resort guests and locals alike, our poolside bar in Haines City offers a full bar with TVs and features a menu of shareable appetizers, fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, and more. Live music also offered on the patio most Saturday nights. Check our Facebook for schedule. Bar & Grill is open to the public and is located within Balmoral Resort Florida in Haines City, minutes from Winter Haven and Davenport. Must Try: Flatbreads and Club Sandwich. 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City (off Hwy 27)
MISTER FISH
(863) 588-3097 • BalmoralBarandGrill.com
Land mark eatery in Lake Wales. Fresh fish never frozen. Fun and casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner menu with daily specials. Mon. 4pm to 9pm. Tues. - Saturday 11:30am to 9pm. Closed Sun. Must Try: Shrimp or Fresh Grouper 802 Henry St., Lake Wales (863) 676-6361
LAKELAND BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S NORTH LAKELAND
Lakeland’s Best Family Sports Pub. 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Gameplan Saturdays. Happy Hour 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Bingo Mondays from 5-6 pm. Kids Eat Free Wednesday from 4-8 pm. Trivia Night on Thursdays from 8-10 pm. Must Try: Hot & Fresh Fajitas - Everyday! Chicken wings! 1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 www.beefobradys.com
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MAY 2020
WINTER HAVEN 326 BISTRO PIZZERIA
Bistro Pizzeria shares the art of perfectly rendered simplicity. Wood burning oven, pizza by the slice, made to order specialty pizzas. Lunch & dinner menu. Warm & casual dining atmosphere. Must Try: Classic Pizza Napoli 326 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven 863-875-4894 www.arabellas.us/bistro
APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL
#1 Happy Hour Monday-Friday 11am-7pm. $1 Taco Tuesdays! Wings, Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads, Fried Pickles, Chicken Fingers, Nachos and much more! Open Mic Night every Tuesday. Winner of the people’s choice Wing Fling 2011 Wing Champs! Come try em’ yourself. Must Try: Famous Wings 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven 863-291-0340
Family owned and operated since 1968 offering the best fish sandwich around! Seafood, chicken and much more using only the best quality food and excellent service! Easily the best homemade food you’ll try! Hours Monday through Saturday 11am to 7pm and closed Sundays. Must Try: Famous Fish Sandwich 715 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-4280
ARABELLA’S
LAKE WALES
We offer the best Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, created from the freshest ingredients. Enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner in our chic Ave Bar. At Arabellas, our dedicated service and inviting ambiance makes us the premier choice for your lunch or dinner destination. Must Try: Bananas Foster prepared table side 346 W. Central Ave. Winter Haven 863-293-1797 • www.arabellas.us
CRAZY FISH
BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S
JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
We take pride in our welcoming environment, friendly service and famous burgers. Come in and check our daily lunch and dinner specials. Weekend specials. Prime rib, frog legs, fried shrimp and catfish. Must Try: Homemade Pies 8675 Hwy 60 East, Lake Wales 863-696-1901, Find us on Facebook
Locally owned sports pub with 30 TVs and full bar. Lunch value combos Mondays-Fridays until 3pm. Award winning jumbo wings with famous sauces and dry rubs. Fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, tacos and dinner entrees available. Weekday Values: Mon. Burgers, Tues. Tacos, Wed. Wings, Thurs. Fajitas, Fri. Surf & Turf. See ya at Beefs! Must Try: Award Winning Wings and Burgers 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 293-9464 • www.beefobradys.com
HARRY’S OLD PLACE
includes shrimp, scallops, mussels, oysters, crab legs, "fish of the day" board, steaks, chicken, pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups/chowders. Restaurant is located on the shores of Lake Ned in beautiful Winter Haven with a quaint pet friendly outdoor patio. Full bar available. Less than a mile from LEGOLAND. Kid's menu also available. Must Try: Grouper in a Bag, the Broiled Seafood Combo and award winning Key Lime Pie! 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd., Winter Haven 863-324-0301 www.harrysoldplace.com
RICK'S BAR-B-Q
Featuring delicious barbecue the entire family can enjoy! Serving up great food in downtown since 2011. Our barbecue is hand rubbed with dry seasonings, smoked over hickory wood and cooked all night. Our pulled pork and savory “fall off the bone” style ribs have proven to be favorites for our customers. Eat in, take out or have us cater your next event. On-site banquet room available for private parties; seats up to 60. Tues & Wed 11-3 pm, Thurs to Sat 11-8 pm. Must Try: Brisket! But only on Fridays...while it lasts! And ribs, of course! 204 6th St SW • 863-299-0354 FB@lickthebone • www.ricksbarbq.com
SOMEWHERE SPORTS BAR
Enjoy great food, great games and great times in a family-friendly atmosphere. As your sports headquarters, ESPN, NFL & MLB ticket available on 14 flat screen TV’s. Daily lunch specials Mon-Fri from 11-2 pm only $5.99. Open 7 days a week. Appetizers, Sandwiches, Wraps, Salads, Burgers, Pizza & Wings. Full liquor with Happy Hour Mon-Sat from 3-6 pm. Must Try: Jumbo Wings & Pizza 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524
THE TWISTED PROP BAR & GRILLE
Winter Haven's newest casual bar & grill nestled on Lake May. Enjoy burgers, wings, wraps, sandwiches and cold beer in a picturesque setting on the Chain of Lakes. Happy hour on beer & wine is Monday to Friday from 2-7 pm. Indoor dining, Patio dining, Outdoor dining and Pet Friendly. Boat dock with multiple slips available. Stop in by car or by boat to enjoy! Hours: Mon-Thurs, 11-9 pm. Fri & Sat, 11-10 pm. Sun 12-8 pm. Facebook for more info. Must Try: Chicken Wings & Burgers 615 7th ST SW (863) 293-1937
Serving up a large selection of fresh fish for over 27 years! Where the fish is always de-lish! Open for lunch and dinner. Great seafood menu also
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'RONA CELEBRATION From page 15 canceled by the airlines via email the end of April. All of this is very sad, I know, but I had one of the best and most memorable birthdays ever because the special people in my life would not let MY special day go by without acknowledgment. This is the story of my big 5-0. The day before, at 7 pm, I was asked to come outside to help with a task. To my shock there was a huge display of brightly colored letters and figures spreading out across our yard “Happy 50th Birthday Tracey!” It was from the Card My Yard company sent over by one of my closest (bff) friends. The company sets it up for 24hrs. She sent it in advance so I could enjoy it, and it also set up the ruse for the rest of my birthday. That same evening Chris told me we were going to be “Zooming” with a few friends that next night for my birthday and having a Champagne toast together. I said that we should invite my dad to come over to be a part of the birthday toast via “Zoom”. At this point, I took over a little by directing how we should stage the “Zoom” by setting up a table outside so everyone could see my HUGE birthday card as the backdrop. I did not think any more about it. Next day, it’s my birthday. I received wonderful text messages from close friends and Facebook messages of celebration through my mom – who created and posted the cutest photo collage to commemorate the day. Then my dear neighbor that I also pet sit for, asked if she could stop by for a minute. I was excited because she brought one of her dog’s, Zoe, a year old boxer, to see me along with some birthday goodies; a handmade poster, a card with a photo of her dogs and a bottle of wine! Zoe and I played around my yard for 30 minutes; best birthday gift. I was very thankful that my neighbor did this for me. As the day continued, Chris now had to run a few errands…birthday errands I assumed. I was informed that my other closest (bff) friend had instructed him to buy me a specific brand of Champagne to celebrate our toast with. He was gone for a while, so I naturally assumed there was more to his list than he let on. Chris returned, I actually showered, brushed my hair, put on a small touch of make-up and a fun party hat since my friends could see me up close through the monitor. Clock was ticking down, I was told everyone was going online at 6 pm, we had 40 minutes on “Zoom” and the Card My Yard people would be there by 7 pm to remove my display from the yard. Seemed legit to me… my mom was having problems with
her computer, so I had to Facetime with her and my step-dad. I waited at the table in my front yard while Chris got everyone online to “Zoom”. Just then, I heard cars honking down the street as four cars followed each other, waved at me and shouting happy birthday and then parked across the street in an empty lot. Chris started blaring my favorite (Jamaican) version of the “Happy Birthday” song from his computer. One by one, my closest friends emerged from their vehicles with cards, gifts and face masks in tow. They each put their cards and gifts on the table that I was sitting at then took their place 6 feet apart
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across our yard. I was for once actually speechless with tears emerging from my eyes. We stood in the yard enjoying each other’s company, the new normal, of 6 feet apart for an hour. We talked, we laughed, we had our Champagne toast! It was perfect! Chris also surprised with flowers, a balloon and a very decadent cake all sent from my mom to help with the celebration since she could not be with us. I took the cake inside, cut into pieces, put in to-go containers for everyone that attended. We dawned our masks as we came together for one group photo to mark this time in history. My last surprise of the day was dinner for two delivered by Carrabba’s at 7 pm from one of my
closest (bff) friends. They really do think of everything! And I love them all dearly! Our time closed out by each taking a piece of birthday cake to enjoy from their homes. I will never forget this birthday. It wasn’t the one I had planned for, but it’s the one that honestly had the biggest emotional impact on me. Everyone took time to celebrate with me and for us to be able to spend that hour together meant the world for we’ve all been craving that social time – even though contact-less; no hugs, no kisses, social distancing around the yard to actually be in each other’s presence was the best moment of all! CLICK TO WATCH MY BIRTHDAY VIDEO
MAY 2020 21
BRAINEXCERCISE Sudoku Puzzle STRANGE BUT TRUE BY SAMANTHA WEAVER • Humans are the only primates without pigment in the palms of their hands. • American alligator blood contains a serum that is so effective at combating bacteria and viruses, even alligators that lose limbs in mucky swamps often avoid infection. • Irish author James Joyce was a great fan of Norwegian dramatist Henrik Ibsen’s plays. How great? He learned basic Norwegian just to send Ibsen a fan letter. • There’s a Facebook group called “Best Day of My Life: When I Realized the Old Brewers Logo Was a Ball & Glove AND the Letters M & B.” • China has the largest population of smokers in the world -- 316 million people -- accounting for nearly one-third of the world’s smokers and 40% of tobacco consumption worldwide. But just more than 2% of Chinese women smoke, compared with more than half of all Chinese men. • The term “deadline” dates to the American Civil War. Lines in the dirt would be drawn around prisoners. If they crossed one, they would be executed by their guards. Not surprisingly, both prisoners and guards soon took to calling such a line the “deadline.” • Philematology is the scientific study of kissing.
TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez
1. ACRONYMS: What does the ZIP postal code stand for? 2. GEOGRAPHY: What is the longest river in the United States? 3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What was Walt Disney’s middle name? 4. BUSINESS: Which company owns the Lamborghini line of sports cars and SUVs? 5. FOOD & DRINK: What is the primary ingredient in the snack hummus? 6. MYTHOLOGY: Where was Achilles’ vulnerable spot? 7. MOVIES: In the thriller “Die Hard,” what was the name of the high-rise building where the action took place? 8. SCIENCE: Which part of the atom has no electrical charge? 9. ENTERTAINERS: Which actress/singer’s nickname was The Divine Miss M? 10. TELEVISION: Which 1970s comedy series spawned the spinoff series “Maude”? Answers 1. Zone Improvement Plan 2. Missouri River 3. Elias 4. Volkswagen 5. Chickpeas 6. His heel 7. Nakatomi Plaza 8. The neutron 9. Bette Midler 10. “All in the Family”
• Research has shown that men who kiss their wives goodbye live about five years longer, make up to 30% more money and are involved in fewer car accidents than those who don’t.
ANSWERS
• As if that weren’t enough, kissing even helps keep your teeth healthy, by causing an increase in saliva, which helps wash away plaque.
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MAY 2020
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PREP YOUR PANTRY FOR UNCERTAIN TIMES
food-grade storage containers. Replace water every six months.
Whether you’ve been hit with lockdowns and quarantines, work and school closures, bad weather or power outages, or you just need to stock your pantry for the times you’re unable to shop, here are some ways to create an emergency pantry using canned goods as staples.
Here are a few recipes using ingredients that should be in every emergency pantry -- grains and beans! Beans and grains are nutrient dense, packed with protein, versatile and are very filling. These no-cook emergency pantry recipes, courtesy of Trisha Calvo, a writer for Consumer Reports, are simple and easy to prepare.
A typical emergency pantry: • Dried and/or evaporated milk • Pasta, rice, cereals, crackers • Jars of processed cheese spread • Granola bars, Pop Tarts • Canned fruits and vegetables • Canned meats and fish (chicken, ham, tuna) • Canned fruit, vegetable juices • Peanut butter • Canned bean, potato salad • Unsalted nuts • Canned baked beans • Canned chili, hash, spaghetti, soup • Dried fruits • Instant beverages • Baby food and formula (if needed) Many people have questions about selecting and storing canned goods. First, start with a quality product. Choose cans that are not rusted, dented, scratched or bulging. Homecanned foods should only be made using research-tested procedures, equipment and recipes from sources such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture website. Here are some tips for creating and stocking an emergency pantry: • Choose foods your family enjoys. Good options include low-sodium canned beans, vegetables, fruit (packed in fruit juice), breakfast cereal, peanut butter, pouches of fully cooked whole grains, nuts, wholewheat crackers and shelf-stable milk or plant milk (the kind sold in aseptic boxes in the grocery aisle). • When buying canned foods, choose low-sodium or no-salt-added products and choose fruits packed in their own juice or water instead of syrup. • Store canned goods in a cool, dark, dry area away from furnaces, pipes and other places where temperature changes occur. Store metal cans off the floor because moisture may lead to rust. • Always use the FIFO (firstin, first-out) method when it comes to taking foods from storage so that you are sure to use your oldest cans first. If you see that a can or jar has a broken seal or is rusting, bulging or dented, discard it. If any food does not look or smell right, throw it out. • Keep at least six gallons of water per family member to be prepared for one week. Store water in airtight,
NO-COOK EMERGENCY PANTRY RECIPES OVERNIGHT OATS -- Mix rolled oats with water and let sit overnight on a counter. In the morning, add peanut butter, raisins or other dried fruit, and a little cinnamon. Power Bean and Grain Bowl or Wrap -- Combine drained canned beans with a pouch of precooked grains, drained canned corn, olive oil and any vegetables, herbs and spices you like. This dish also makes a delicious filling for a wrap, tortilla or pita bread. SALMON OR TUNA STUFFED AVOCADOS -- Combine chunks of canned salmon, tuna or canned smoked trout with chopped tomato and cucumber. Toss with a dressing of lemon juice or white vinegar, olive oil, paprika, and salt and pepper. Stuff in avocado halves, use to top lettuce greens or as a sandwich filling. CHUNKY GAZPACHO -- Combine a can of diced tomatoes with the juice, chopped onion, chopped cucumber, a little Tabasco sauce or cayenne pepper, and a dash of salt and pepper. You also can add chopped red or green peppers if you have them. Drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh parsley or cilantro if available. To make this a heartier dish, add a can of chickpeas (drained).
CORN SALAD -- Combine drained canned corn with any vegetables you have on hand (tomatoes, peppers and onions, for example), chopped. Add drained canned black beans if you like. Toss with a dressing made of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 1 part olive oil, fresh or dried basil, and a little salt and pepper.
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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
The New Normal If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be. — Maya Angelou Pop culture shapes our ideas of what is normal and what our dreams can be and what our roles are. Politics, of course, decides how the power and the money in the country is distributed. Both are equally important, and each affects the other. — Gloria Steinem Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal. — Albert Camus The possibility of stepping into a higher plane is quite real for everyone. It requires no force or effort or sacrifice. It involves little more than changing our ideas about what is normal. — Deepak Chopra This article should greet you in circumstances that are nowhere near normal. The world has turned upside, and we are still adapting to an environment where the enemy is silent, invisible, and not even alive. To make matters worse, we are battling science, fear, opinion, and for the most part, each other. Life, as we knew, is at a standstill. This pandemic has given us a completely different perception of what is important. For the first time, I wished a close friend happy birthday in her front yard with a mask on and a bottle of bubbly. However, that memory seems sweeter and more genuine than the enormous parties we once attended. What we are learn-
ing from Covid 19 that some distances can be a good thing.
We are now gathering in new
ways and trying to support
each other through our multiple
screens. This virus has shown us we can reach out through digi-
tal space and connect like never before. Pants are not necessary,
but Wi-Fi is essential. A backyard is now more important than a
big screen, and wide-open spaces have become more valuable than front row tickets.
For many reasons, this pan-
demic will shift our behavior and perceptions. I hope that we will
learn how important it is to plan
for an emergency. It does not matter how great our economy is if
we are not alive to enjoy it. There has to be more balance between
what we want and what we need. Two things should disappear
after the pandemic: webinars
and product hoarding. As a society, can we agree both of these cultural norms can be retired?
Webinars are an excuse to rehash
what everyone already knows but now with cool new digital back-
grounds. As for paper hoarding,
if we do not support local farmers
now, there will be no need for toilet paper in the future.
I am sure stranger days are still
ahead as we grapple with a future that is dependent upon facts, col-
laboration, and cooperation. Three ideas that have not been easy for our generation but perhaps, this
will be the time we learn how to be better humans.
MAY 2020 23
A VIRTUAL EXHIBIT BY THE NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM MARCH 31 - JUNE 6
VISIT THE VIRTUAL MUSEUM Where you can explore history from anywhere While the Lake Wales History Museum is closed to the public, you can explore history from anywhere with virtual museum programs, tours, videos, exhibits, and more!
lakewalesfl.gov/museum 24
MAY 2020
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