December 2016 by Today & Tonight Magazine

Blackened Brie

A blackened wheel of velvety Brie cheese topped with Harry’s Creole cranberry chutney. Served with buttered crostinis.

Frenchman Street Crepes

Tender Shrimp and Chicken mixed with sautéed spinach, Fontina cheese, Ham and Bacon and rolled into a delicate savory crepe. Finished with a light and creamy Shrimp sauce.

WITH EVERY PURCHASE OF $100 IN GIFT CARDS. Gift Cards not valid day of purchase Promotion runs November 1-December 24

Harry’s Holiday Trio

Tender grilled fillet medallions topped with delicately fried Lobster and Shrimp accented with our New Orleans sherry cream sauce and accompanied by our classic smashed potatoes and green beans.

Savory “Down Home” Chicken Bring your appetite! A tender half Chicken served crispy with our smashed potatoes, sliced mushrooms, French green beans and a roasted chicken jus.

101 N. KENTUCKY AVE., LAKELAND • (863) 686-2228 Free Shipping Online at HookedOnHarrys.com

DECEMBER 2016

4 DECEMBER 2016

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TRACEY’S

By Tracey Greene

May Your Holidays Be Merry Not Scary... As soon as we turn the calendar page to September, it seems there is a mad dash with the retailers to see who can get Christmas decorations on display in their stores first. The consumers, then in return, start harboring anxiousness towards the impending Christmas holiday season or whatever holiday you celebrate. This really impedes our ability to be relaxed and enjoy the season when your mind goes into overload: How many people are gifts being bought for? What’s the budget look like? When is there time to decorate the house? What Christmas parties or events are being attended? What meals are being planned: cocktail party, Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas lunch or dinner, New Year’s Eve dinner, New Year’s Day lunch? Lists upon lists upon lists! It’s enough pressure and stress to make the holidays not so fun anymore. We are starting to lose the value of the holiday – no matter what your belief system is. It’s about sharing and caring. It’s about giving thanks, being thankful and giving back. It’s about your family and your friendships. It’s a time of year that is truly magical; from the decorations placed around the community to the songs of the season. Even the Grinch and Scrooge were softened by the magic in the air. They just had to open their eyes, theirs ears and their hearts. For the past maybe seven years, I stopped decorating for Christmas to the chagrin of family and friends. Being too busy, being financially strapped and just being plain over the whole “Christmas” thang. Big boxes and plastic tubs stayed in the corner of the garage not seeing the light

of day to spread their delight and joy. However, even though I stopped decorating the house, and cut back on the spending, and the parties, I still made sure that Christmas music filled the air from Thanksgiving weekend until New Year’s Day. Something this simple kept my spirits uplifted and made me happy; not receiving the fancy or expensive gifts, not the getting further into debt by way overspending but the Christmas music. For 2016, I caved, finally succumbed to the pressure of getting back (fully) into the Christmas spirit! The Friday after Thanksgiving we went to the American Heritage Christmas Tree lot and actually, for the first time, got a REAL tree. We also had to buy new LED lights since mine have been boxed away for so long. But, I will admit, it was fun getting all the boxes out, cleaning the thick dust off and opening them up. It was like seeing old friends again. My beautiful traditional ornaments and decorations. We had a very enjoyable evening getting the tree in place and the decorations perfectly in place all while Frosty the Snowman and Frosty Returns played in the background. It’s the simple things that make the holidays so special. I want to wish you a Merry (not scary) Christmas season. Keep your eyes open to see the magic in the air. Keep your ears open to hear all of the special sounds of the season. And, finally, keep your heart open to allow yourself to be filled with the joy of the holidays with those that matter the most in your life.

King Features Weekly Service

September 7, 2015

TID BITS

coincide with holiday parties. Then you won’t have to worry about doing your hair. It will still look nice from your beautician appointment.” -- A.I. in Indiana

• When crumbsmoving, gather in the your • “When use cracks foam ofplates as separators for your dinner plates. keyboard, turn it upside down and give it a Use kitchen towels to Then, wrap use serving good shake to remove most. the platters. you have box thatbetween sepasticky side ofIfa Post-it noteadragged rates glasses, drop a spice jar into each the keys to clean out the rest.

glass. Use all the space, and you’ll have fewer boxes to move.” — P.L. in • “Save large platters that come with holiday South Carolina trays to use when bringing cookies or baked • To remove stubborn hard-water goods to other parties. That way you don’t deposits from a shower head (withhave to removing bring homeit), a platter, youtrick: can just leave out use this Add it and passofit plain on.” --white E.G. in Kansasto a zipa cup vinegar per-top sandwich bag (or a larger bag with added vinegar fitappointments larger show- to • “Schedule haircuts andto nail erheads). 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 CHICKEN screw? Place a ROTISSERIE wide rubber band RESCUE! over the head and TO THE insert your drill. The rubber band fills in the using stripped spots and makesinthe I love rotisserie chickens drill catch the screw. It works of I love towhen talk I’m about food. To me, my recipes pressed formost time. the time.” — D.D. in Nebraska food is thechickens universal denomRotisserie arecommon reasonably priced, • “Make audio recordings short inator, because everyone to eat. convenient, come seasoned inhas aorvariety videostalking of you reading your children’s Ioflove with strangers about ways and can be transformed into a favorite books, then play for them the foods loved as housework, a child, or multitude ofthey quick and easy main-dish when you are busy doing recipes they like because meals. Best ofcooking.” all, ifto youprepare, purchase aOreplain, working or — K.A. in those gon stories are often some of their happiest memories andzipper, a window into • If you have a sticky try runtheir culture. ning a candle along the zipper face, My Vegetable then special zipping it Roasted up and down a few times. recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Croustade It’s aSend great appetizer or Here’s side dish for your tips to Now a Tip, 628who Virginia Orlando, FL folks aren’tDrive, vegetarians, a lovely 32803. main course for those who are, and

Croustade Will Tempt Even Non-Vegetarians

ROASTED VEGETABLE CROUSTADE To Roast the Vegetables: 1 cup olive oil, divided 3 red potatoes, scrubbed and quartered 2 yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch-thick slices 10 Brussels sprouts, halved 4 green onions, root ends removed 1 large carrot, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 chicken, celery roots, peeled, trimmed roasted you can use the bones cuthomemade into 1/2-inch pieces to makeand a rich, chicken stock 1 large of of garlic, separator enhance thehead flavors pre-packaged into cloves, smashed stocks oredbroths, so nothing goes toand waste. Mostpeeled rotisserie chickens are large 1 teaspoon enough to serve at salt least four people as a 1 teaspoon black main course. Or, you canpepper pull the meat QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS 2 thetablespoons Italian seasoning from bones and use it in recipes that info@todayandtonight.com 1/4 teaspoon sugar call for pre-cooked chicken. Shredded 1. Heat the oven to 400 F. Pour 1/2 SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM cup of the olive oil on a large sheet pan or jelly-roll pan, 15 1/2 by 10 1/2 by 1 inch, coating pan with the oil.

• “I find that the best conversation starter when visiting a large group of family or friends is a box or basket of photos. It is inexpensive to print copies, and I have all my old photos scanned anyway. Bringing them in a basket rather than in an album works because we pass them around, and people can take photos home with them. Sometimes, a picture will inspire a story, and I might write it down on the back of the photo to remember it and tuck it away. It’s more than worth the $10-$15 it costs to print pictures.” -- L.W. in Virginia • Try substituting cream cheese for sour cream in your mashed potatoes for a dreamy, creamy alternative. Whip in with a mixer and enjoy.

the remaining 1/2incup of from oil, salthe chicken can be used recipes potatoes, squash, sprouts, ads, sandwiches and Brussels soups to enchiladas green onions, carrot, celery roots, or chicken pot pies. garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning Using a pre-cooked chicken gives you and sugar until the vegetables are the opportunity to place explorevegetables new and uncoated. Carefully on usual recipes that would ordinarily take the heated pan and roast for 15 to 20 a lot of time to prepare. for minutes, stirring onceThis afterrecipe 10 minSpeedy Mediterranean ready utes. Allow vegetablesChicken to coolisbefore mixing with the tofu in just 30 minutes and cream impartsfilling. all the

ter- or ol spray, light casserole d Place shee pieces of f overlapping croustade spray the p 3. Place p baking dish exotic spices flavors of the traditional lapping the To Make theand Tofu Cream Filling: cream-chee recipe. A rotisserie chicken seasoned 1 container (4 ounces) light with the pastry. lemon pepper is perfect this dish. whipped creamfor cheese center, fold reminiscent 4The flavors ouncesused soft,are silken tofu, of an the filling, drained tagine, which typically exotic Moroccan form a bow 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese combine lamb, chicken or beef with a In a sma 1/2 of cup light mayonnaise variety ingredients and seasonings, and water t 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning including citrus fruits, nuts, honey and pastry with 1/2 teaspoon salt croustade 2 pungent spices. This recipe blends spicy 1/2 teaspoon black pepper salsa and curry powder and adds a hint of sweetness by incorporating honey and raisins with spectacular results. Toasting the curry powder in the oil first gives the dish an authentic taste and brings out the flavors of the spice. Serve with hot cooked couscous or rice to make the most of the savory sauce that envelops the chicken. SPEEDY MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil 2 teaspoons curry powder 1 jar (16 ounces) chunky salsa 1/2 cup sliced green olives 1/4 cup golden raisins 1/4 cup honey 1 deli rotisserie chicken (2 to 2 1/2 pounds), cut into 6 to 8 pieces, skin reIn a large bowl, mix togethmoved if desired

er the whipped cream cheese, tofu, Parmesan, mayonnaise, Italian sea1. In salt 12-inch heat oil soning, andnonstick pepper skillet, until smooth. over medium heat. Stir in curry powder. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to blend Cook over medium heat 1roasted minute,vegestirflavors. Mix the cooled, tables with the tofu cream filling until ring constantly. well-blended. 2. Stir in remaining ingredients except

chicken. turn to coat. To MakeAdd the chicken; Croustade: 3. Cover; cook over medium-high 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, heat 5 to 6 minutes, thawedturning chicken occasionegg ally,1 until sauce is bubbly and chicken is 1 tablespoon water4 servings. thoroughly heated. Makes 1. Thaw pastry sheet at room temDECEMBER 2016 5 perature for 40 minutes. The oven should already be heated to 400 F if the vegetables were roasted in it, or

the pastry i allow to co a spatula, from the ba sheets of p move it on warm or at

Angela award-win culinary h of five coo book, “Th Kitchen,” i known as the executi “The Kitch

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

TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 13 Issue 6 December 2016 10 Backstage Pass with Adrienne Richards 13 2Infinity Extreme Sports Park 18 Dwayne’s Place Diner & Grill 26 Holiday Calendar

COLUMNS: 5

Kitchen Diva

Now Here’s a Tip

Tracey’s Tid Bits

2Infinity Extreme Sports Park

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

THE FUN & AMUSING: 28 Crossword

LISTINGS: 9

Local Live Music

12 Snap Shotz 22 Restaurant Guide 26 Calendar of Events

Dwayne’s Place Diner & Grill

32 Sara Michaels’ Porch Picks

28 Brain Exercise

Backstage Pass with Adrienne Richards

Holiday Event Calendar

EDITOR’S NOTE Awe... There is nothing better than a nice cold snap to snap you into the Holiday Spirit. When it comes to cold weather, I am no novice. Growing up near Buffalo, NY I have been through some of the worst winter weather you can image. But there is still something about that first day that the temperature drops and you get that giddy feeling that the Holidays are right around the corner. In this month’s issue we have a great restaurant review and a new Extreme Trampoline venue. Go check them out. As always, Expect More... Get More... We Deliver... Merry Christmas Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor

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 ELIZABETH MORRISEY

MARY JOYE ANASTASIA ZIVIC

CHRIS DOUGLAS

MIKE POTTHAST

PHOTOGRAPHY SALES

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Merry Christmas Polk County! Remember to Shop Local! 6 DECEMBER 2016

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, 2016 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.

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DECEMBER CONCERT CALENDAR PRESENTED BY JESSIE’S LOUNGE FRIDAY, DEC 2 JENU 6 & ROOSTER JACK (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) SMOOTHSOUNDS 11a/ FRANKIE T 5p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BOBBY JAMES (Fresco’s, LKD) ALMOST THERE (New Grove Lounge, DUN) SATURDAY, DEC 3 KENNY G (Lakeland Center, LKD) GLASS HOUSE POINT (Fresco’s, LKD) JOSH BLEVINS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) LAST ROUND UP (The Crooked Bass, BAB PK) SUNDAY, DEC 4 THE NELSONS (Lakeland Center, LKD) BLUE ROOSTER (Old Man Frank’s, WH) RED HOT ROOSTERS (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) RUSTY WRIGHT (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) MONDAY, DEC 5 BOB & ELLIE SHALLOP (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) TUESDAY, DEC 6 WIREGRASS (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) DREW BALDRIDGE wsg MAGGIE BAUGH (Boots n Buckles Saloon, LKD) WEDNESDAY, DEC 7 KALEIGH BAKER (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) THURSDAY, DEC 8 JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BLUEGRASS BUDDIES (International Mkt World, ADL) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) FIVE FINGER DEATHPUNCH AND SHINEDOWN wsg SIXX:AM/AS LIONS (Amway Center, ORL) FRIDAY, DEC 9 SMOOTHSOUNDS 11a/ GRATEFUL ALIVE 5p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) 10,000 PAPERCUTS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) GLENN JOHNSON AND CAL LANE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) BLACKBIRD ANTHEM (The Crooked Bass, BAB PK) CROSS TRAXX (Apple Lounge, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Patio850, LKD) MUNN PARK SAINTS (Fresco’s, LKD) 5TH GEAR BAND (Keel and Curley Winery, PC) SATURDAY, DEC 10 IMPERIAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (PSC Fine Arts Theatre, WH) HUBO BENTLY AND DIM CROOKED FOOLS (Street Party/3rd Street, WH) BEEBS AND HER MONEY MAKERS wsg SARAH AND THE SWINGING RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

JJ GREY & MOFRO, photo by AARON VENRICK NORTHBOUND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) RAMBLIN’ ROSE TRIO (The Crooked Bass, BAB PK) SOUTHERN LEGACY BAND (Fire Restaurant, WH) SLAVE TO A NAME (Pour House Lounge, WH) MACGILLIOSSA (Molly McHugh’s, LKD) DEAN JOHANESEN (Fresco’s, LKD) SUNDAY, DEC 11 WONDERLAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) MONDAY, DEC 12 BOB & ELLIE SHALLOP (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) TUESDAY, DEC 13 DAN SIGNOR (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) ISO: MASTERWORKS CONCERT VICTORIAN HOLIDAY (Lakeland Center, LKD) TONI BROWN & ED MUNSON (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) WEDNESDAY, DEC 14 LETS HANG ON: TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLI/THE 4 SEASONS (Lakeland Center, LKD) LUBECK (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) THURSDAY, DEC 15 JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BLUEGRASS BUDDIES (International Mkt World, ADL) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) GREG REDDING (Fresco’s, LKD) FRIDAY, DEC 16 DAMON FOWLER GROUP wsg TC CARR (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) DAVE SMITH 11a/ SMOOTHSOUNDS 5p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

SPLIT SECOND BAND (Lk Wales Moose Lodge, LW) RAISIN’ CAIN (New Grove Lounge, DUN) GEORGE MORRIS AND THE LARIAT BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) BLACKBIRD ANTHEM (The Crooked Bass, BAB PK) DULCIMER NIGHT w/ MUSICAL HAMMERS (Central Park/Downtown, WH) KOLT 45 (Apple Lounge, WH) KAT & THE DAWGS (Fresco’s, LKD) SATURDAY, DEC 17 JOSH BLEVINS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) RAMBLIN’ ROSE TRIO (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) SPLIT SECOND BAND (Crooked Bass, BAB PK) SLOT 6 (New Grove Lounge, DUN) BLACKBIRD ANTHEM (The Coop/Indian Lake Estates) PHILIP BOOTH MUSIC (Fresco’s, LKD) SLAVE TO A NAME (Harley Davidson, LKD) SHEVONNE PHILIDOR (Brew Hub, LKD) TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA 3:30 & 8 pm (Amway Center, ORL) JINGLE BALL: PITBULL/ THE CHAINSMOKERS/ FIFTH HARMONY/DNCE/ LUKAS GRAHAM/MARTIN GARRIX/DAYA (Amaile Arena, TMP) SUNDAY, DEC 18 BLUE ROOSTER (Old Man Frank’s, WH) PATRICK RENNEY (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) MONDAY, DEC 19 BOB & ELLIE SHALLOP (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) TUESDAY, DEC 20 MARILYN SULLIVAN (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) WEDNESDAY, DEC 21 JACK SPROUCE (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) PHIL SCHNIEDER’S ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) THURSDAY, DEC 22 JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BLUEGRASS BUDDIES (International Mrkt World, ADL) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) FRIDAY, DEC 23 SMOKE POINT (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) SMOOTHSOUNDS 11a/ OPEN MIC 5p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) WONDERLAND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) NORTHBOUND (Apple Lounge, WH) MACGILLIOSSA (Molly McHugh’s, LKD) SATURDAY, DEC 24 FOLEY AND POINDEXTER (Old Man Frank’s, WH) WONDERLAND (Pour House Lounge, WH) JOSH BLEVINS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) SHANE MEADE & THE SOUND (Keel and Curley Winery, PC)

POWER SURGE (New Grove Lounge, DUN) RICH MISTRETTA (The Crooked Bass, BAB PK) SIMPLICITY (Central Park/Downtown, WH) JOSH BLEVINS (Apple Lounge, WH) SATURDAY, DEC 31 THE WANTED BAND (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) WONDERLAND (Apple Lounge, WH) SPLIT SECOND BAND (Lk Wales Moose Lodge, LW) BURNIN’ BROTHERS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) THE SOFA KINGS (Fresco’s, LKD) SLAVE TO A NAME (Pour House Lounge, WH) SUNDAY, JAN 1 SOUTHBOUND (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) WEDNESDAY, JAN 4 PRESLEY, PERKINS, LEWIS & CASH TRIBUTE (Lakeland Center, LKD) BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

TUESDAY, DEC 27 WC WIDNER (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

THURSDAY, JAN 5 BLUEGRASS BUDDIES (International Mrkt World, ADL)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 28 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) JANE ROSENBOHM (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

FRIDAY, JAN 6 T. MIKE & DUKE (Central Park/Downtown, WH) DIAMOND ROCKS; NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE (Lakeland Center, LKD) SOUTHERN LEGACY BAND (Apple Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, DEC 29 JON CORNEAL & CO (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC) BLUEGRASS BUDDIES (International Mrkt World, ADL) SIMPLY COUNTRY BAND (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) FRIDAY, DEC 30 WONDERLAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SMOOTHSOUNDS 11a/ TONI BROWN & ED MUNSON 5p (Jackie’s Art Cafe, HC)

SATURDAY, JAN 7 SHEVONNE PHILIDOR (Brew Hub, LKD)

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.

DECEMBER 2016

MUSIC BAND PROFILE

BACKSTAGE PASS

any communities have that one musician that everyone knows. For us, here in Polk County, that player is Adrienne Richards. The bubbly songstress’ natural talent and musical aptitude has made her a regular at many a local haunt, as well as several high-profile venues in Central Florida and beyond. Her friendly inclusiveness extends to other musicians and people who love to go out to hear them play, prompting all who meet her to count her as a close personal friend.  Whether she’s performing with one of her duo projects or bands, with internationally renowned producers - like her husband - or around a campfire, her instinctive and unaffected vocals possess the ability to shine brightly on their own, couple flawlessly in sync, or highlight what is best in another, as if by some strange magic.  A true region talent, Adrienne took a few minutes to speak with me while, not surprisingly, on her way to a gig at Disney Springs. Here’s what she had to say:   T&T MAG: You have a few 10 DECEMBER 2016

BY ANASTASIA J. ZIVIC

ADRIENNE RICHARDS A TRUE REGION TALENT projects that you work on locally and people you perform with - who are all of the musicians and what role do they play? How do the shows differ? ADRIENNE RICHARDS: There are two aspects to my musical life. Locally I do acoustic projects with friends. Travis Williams and I have Acoustic Dose, we’ve been doing that for almost 7 years now. And then I play with Walls, who are my friends Frankie Thacker and Chaz Saultz along with my husband Mike (Richards). I also do some shows with Mickenzie Peisher and Michael LuBecke (LuBeck). Everyone I play with acoustically are all my best

friends.  The other aspect of my musical endeavors is I’m a Drum and Bass (DNB) vocalist. I started out doing vocals for my husband Mike, who goes by the name Random Movement, and since then have had a dozen releases on both American and International labels with various artists within the genre. One of my favorite things about that is performing live at clubs and festivals with my husband. He DJs and I sing and hype the crowd. T&T MAG: Are you from Polk County? AR: I’m originally from Toronto,

Canada, I moved here in 1998 and I’ve been in the Winter Haven area since then.   T&T MAG: When did you first pick up an instrument? AR: About 5 years ago I picked up a guitar, but I played a piano when I was a kid. I still own the piano my dad got for me then. I was always into theater and singing when I was young, I was a big drama kid and did a lot of singing, but I had never picked anything up until that guitar. Recently I bought myself a drum kit! T&T MAG: Why did you decide to play the genre or genres you do? AR: My acoustic projects consist of a lot of cover stuff, but the original music I write myself on guitar is more of a singer/songwriter thing. It’s just an easy way for me to get out the words and music in my head, without having to put a lot of structure behind it. As far as the Drum and Bass music, I’ve always been a fan of the genre. I was a huge fan of my husband’s music way before I had even met him. I was a DJ back in the day, and I used to play his music. It’s really a dream

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come true to sing on his music and collaborate with him. Drum and Bass has always been a big love of mine. T&T MAG: What has your favorite live-music performance been?  AR: Brooklyn, New York. I played at the Brooklyn Bowl along with Mike and some other big names in the (DNB) scene. A real dream come true! T&T MAG: What has the influence of music been in your life, outside of being a musician? Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration? AR: Friendship, love and life and experiences mean a lot to me, and I like to write about them. It could be anything from a day out on the water in my kayak, to a kick-ass party. T&T MAG: Do you pick up a guitar and let it flow or write stuff down? AR: I like to write stuff down. Then I pick up a guitar and let it go. For my DNB music, it’s a bit of a different process. I’m usually given songs by a producer and my job is to write the lyrics, so sometimes I do that over the course of a few days. They’re not always necessarily personal. T&T MAG: What is your favorite thing about Polk County? AR: Definitely the lakes. I recently got a couple of kayaks and my friends and I go out all of the time – I love the water.

T&T MAG: Who are your favorite musicians in the area? AR: So many friends – so much good music. I like Daniel Heitz. He blew me away, I believe he is from Orlando. He’s a prodigy. Shout out to Spirit and the Cosmic Heart. Love them. T&T MAG: What is your dream gig? AR: I don’t know about a dream gig, but I’m about to get my green card and that will allow me to travel

back to Canada to play for my family and friends again. They’ve never heard me play live! Also, I have a lot of opportunities waiting for me in South America and Europe, so that will be something fun for me in the near future. T&T MAG: Okay, let’s get really personal! You are stranded on a deserted island and can have 3 albums. What are they? AR: Hummingbird by Local Natives, Houses of the Holy by Led Zeppelin and anything by Miles Davis.

T&T MAG: We finish the interview and you step outside the office and find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $10 million. What would you do? AR: I would travel and put music back in the schools. I’d make sure every student either has the instrument or the opportunity. Big respect to the local charity “Play it Forward”, which does exactly that.   T&T MAG: There is a whole box of Teddy Grahams in a room all by themselves. Say I left them there and told you not to eat any until I got back. How long would it take you to disobey my wishes?  AR: 37 seconds. T&T MAG: About 7 seconds longer than I’d expect.  Thanks for your time Adrienne, you’re a real gem in the local music community and I encourage everyone to catch a show and some of that energy you put out whenever they can! You can learn more about Adrienne Richards, check for upcoming shows and hear some of her music online at:  facebook.com/adriennerichardsdnb soundcloud.com/Adrienne-Richards AcousticDose - facebook.com/ acousticdoseWalls - facebook.com/ wallsinyourears DECEMBER 2016

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Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 102 W. Polk Street (863) 968-0010 Full Liquor! Hpy Hr Beer All Day Mon, Margarita’s 2-4-1, 5p-cl Thu, 2-4-1 Wells & Drafts 9p-cl

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

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, Simon Time Trivia 6p Thu, Hospitality Night/$3 wells Sat & Sun, Beer Bckt Specials Dec 21, Christmas Karaoke Party Dec 31, New Year’s Eve Party The Crew’s Corner 733 W. Bridgers Ave (863) 965-7700 Happy Hr Daily 4-7p, 75¢ draft/ Sun $2.25 Dom Mon,Thu-Sun, Pool Leag Sat, Karaoke 9p

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

12 DECEMBER 2016

The Lucky Leprechaun Irish Saloon & Pool Hall 43356 Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Full Liquor Pool Hall Dec 26, Christmas Party 8p The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880 The Wheelhouse @19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560 $1 Shock Top Drafts $2 Bud Select/Spring Fling Drafts $2 Camarena Tequila Tue, 2-4-1 Titos Vodka 4-9p

DUNDEE The New Grove Lounge (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537 Mon, $1 Drafts 7p Tue, Industry Night Wed, Karaoke 8p Fri & Sat Live Music Sun, Dart Tourn 5p Dec 24 & 31, Holiday Parties

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 Live Music

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 The British Stage Door 9150 Us Highway 192 (863) 424-8056 Wed-Sun, Karaoke Jackie’s Art Cafe’ 621 Ingraham Ave. (863) 547-6778 Daily Music, Lunch Hrs: M-F 10-3p, Fri 5-7p Liquor Up 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Wed-Sat, Karaoke 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 Live Music; Serving Lunch 7 Days Dec 13, Christmas Party 4-8p Dec 22, Bartender Christmas Party Dec 24, Christmas Eve Party Dec 31, NYE Party $7 cover

LAKELAND Barry’s One 740 N. Wabash Ave (863) 683-5283 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

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Story and Photos By Elizabeth Morrisey

f you want to unleash the American Ninja Warrior inside you and get your adrenaline fix, head to 2Infinity – Lakeland’s new extreme sports park. It’s not just trampolines. In fact, only one third of the 50,000-square-

foot space is trampolines. The rest includes extreme dodge ball, a parkour pit, a slam dunk court, a rock wall, warped wall, trapeze, silks, tight ropes and an obstacle course. Since it opened on the North side in mid-August, 2Infinity has already had 100,000 jumpers come through its doors. “Lakeland was hungry,” said owner Ty Nielson. “It’s a culture here. It’s not just a jumpy house.” 2Infinity is the largest extreme sports park

there as soon as he’s old enough. “It’s a cool

than 30 parks in the U.S., Asia and Europe

Nielson said 15 to 25 year olds are their

in the world, he said. Nielson is an operating vibe,” said the Lake Gibson High School stupartner under Circus Trix, which owns more dent. “It’s fun. I do this and football practice.” and more are opening every month.

biggest group of customers and many of them

grabbed onto it and ate it up,” he explained.

social media and word of mouth. “At the end

Nielson said the opening of 2Infinity was are regulars. “It’s almost a cult following,” he the best the company has seen. “Lakeland has said. The only advertising they do is through “We had to turn away 400 people the sec- of the day, we are in a world where people want to try something different and post it ond weekend we were open.” You can find adrenaline junky Abijah on social media,” Nielson said.

Alexander at 2Infinity about four times per week. The 15-year-old hopes to get a job

— Continued Page 14

DECEMBER 2016

— From Page 13

whole family. Friday and Saturday

2Infinity has 49 employees with

nights the place turns into a club

many of them high school and col-

atmosphere where the lights are

lege students. “We hope this job out and everything glows from 9 will be a spring board to a better p.m. to midnight for 15-year-olds and up. They also offer frequent future.” flyer cards. Nielson wants 2Infinity to be “The kids love it,” said Lake a safe place for kids. “There is Alfred resident Kelly Quinn. “It’s an epidemic of kids playing video way harder than it looks.” She games. Here they are exercising brought her niece and nephew out to 2Infinity when the kids were out without realizing it.” of school Thanksgiving week. “It’s There are no age requirements something every great aunt should for jumpers, but parents have to be able to do. It’s so much better than going to a movie.” sign a waiver for their kids to parNielson said extreme sports ticipate. Some deals include: a kid’s parks are part of the entertainjump from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. for six ment industry. “We feel we have and under. It’s $10 and the parents something special here. This is the jump free. Monday nights you can

best community. We strive to give pay a flat fee of $35 per hour for a them an amazing experience.” 14 DECEMBER 2016

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SNAPSHOTZ

Open late night

The Boondocks 8518 Hwy 98 North (863) 858-3355 Tue & Thu, Ladies Night Fri & Sat, Live DJ PBR specials everyday! Boots n Buckles Saloon 4951 Hwy 98 North (863) 815-BOOT Smoke-Free Tue, Pool Hall Specials & Karaoke Wed, 5¢ Beer 9p-12a, 21+ no cover Thu, Ladies 21+ Drink Free 9p-12a 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 Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E. Edgewood Dr Ste G (863) 686-6441 The End Zone 6206 Hwy 98 N (863) 858-7226 2-4-1 Draft Beer/Hs Wines 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

EMAIL US YOUR

SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE NEXT ISSUE

Hookah Palace 122 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 Mon, 2-4-1(no Martini’s/Btl Beer) Tue, $2 Draft Beer, $3 Wells Wed, $4 Martini Madness Thu, Ladies Drink Free 9p-12a Fri/Sat, Belly Dancers 9:30p/10:30p Isle of Capri Bar 541 S Combee Rd (863) 665-6246 Open Mon-Sat 8a & Sun 12p Beer & Wine; Food Available Johnny G’s 5153 US Hwy 98N (863) 858-3366 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri 4-6p Wed, Nickel Drafts 8p Thu, Bike Night Fri, Ladies Night 7p 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

Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas

Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S. Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; $1.75 Drafts & $2.75 Wells Full Liquor T A Slammers 1011 S. Florida Ave (863) 682-4178 Live Music Tue, Pool Tourn 7p 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 XYZ Lounge 3050 Hwy 98 S./Bartow Hwy (863) 665-2310

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

Ybor Cigars & Spirits 5263 S. Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/Flat Screen TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri

Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 604-1456 $1.25 Drafts Trish is Back!

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

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

LAKE WALES

DECEMBER 2016

SNAPSHOTZ 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 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 Liar’s Lair Saloon Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Fri, Karaoke 8p Live Music R & L Pub 126 N 1st St (863) 676-7797 Y’all Come Back Saloon 3230 State Rd 60 E (863) 676-5759

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

16 DECEMBER 2016

WINTER HAVEN A.J. Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 875 5623 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 Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 West Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Tue-Sat, 4p Smoke-Free Full Menu/Full Bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar! 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special El Norteno 54 4th St, NW (863) 298-0993 Hpy Hr 4-7p Daily, w/$1Tacos/ 2-4-1Drinks Daily Lunch Specials 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 Harborside Restaurant 2435 7th St SW (863) 293-7070 Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p Sunday, Early Bird 3-5p Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-6p Waterfront Dining in Lk Shipp High Seas Lounge 7000 State Rd 544 (863) 299-2233 Great Food/Drink Specials Live Music Idle Zone (At Lake May) 615 7th Street SW (863) 875-7949 NFL Sunday Ticket Great Food; Lunch & Dinner Dec 31, New Year’s Eve Party 9p Jan 1, SouthBound 2-6p

Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW Smoke-Free Outdoor Patio Live Music Dec 13, Humane Society Benefit w/Dan Signor - $10 cover Jessie’s Lounge 118 3rd Street SW (863) 298-9815 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p Mon, Free Pool Wed, Ping Pong Tourn Thu, Ladies Night 1/2 off select Live Music Weekly Dec 10, Rock’n Roll Food/ Music Rally Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767 Happy Hr 12-7 p Mon, Karaoke w/Ching Ching Tue, Pool Tourn/Poker Sat & Sun, Poker Darts, Golden Tee Old Man Frank’s 1005 S. Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179 Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p Sun, Live Music/$12 Bckts Tues, Dart Tourn @ 8p Wed, Karaoke Dec 31, New Year’s Eve Party Past Time Lounge 1605 1st St S (863) 293-0027 Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table Wed, Poker 7p The Pour House Lounge 1560 Havendale Blvd NW (863) 299-5515 Sat, Live Bands 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 Tanners Lakeside Restaurant 1006 S Lake Howard Drive (863) 662-5948 Wed-Fri, Bar Open 4p/Kitchen 5p Sat & Sun Open @11:30a Happy Hr Wed-Fri 4-6p Sun, Party on Tiki Deck Dec 10, Puttz, Pintz & Shotz Event For Women’s Resource Center T L’s Old Place 2390 Ave G NW (863) 299-7924 WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

BRIAN’S BRAIN

By Brian Bruchey

Bring On The Apocalypse 2016 has been quite the year. Not necessarily a good one, but it’s definitely been one that we’ll all remember for a long time. I can’t recall one quite like it really. For some people, 2016 will be a great year: New children, graduation, won the lottery (if this is you, feel free to name me as your beneficiary), or death of a longtime foe. For others, 2016 will go down as a horrible year. Death of a loved one, major injury, horrible break-up, unexpected news from the doctor about that itch that won’t go away. Usually, people remember years because of one or two major events. 1945 had World War Two. 1963 saw JFK assassinated. In 1969, man walked on the moon. And Star Wars debuted in 1977. You get the idea. There really wasn’t one super major, unusual, or unexpected news story this year. In twenty years, nobody will be saying, “I was sitting in Ms Clambaker’s class, when I heard President Trump say, “Grab them in the…elbow? Bellybutton? I can’t remember what he said twenty years ago, but yeah, it was in Ms Clambaker’s class, because I remember she fainted when Billy Bob read it out loud from the CNN website.” In twenty years, people will be saying “2036 was a weird year…but cheesy cow, nothing like 2016!” A lot of crazy things went down this year. We lost singers Prince and David Bowie, athletes Gordie Howe and Muhammad Ali, former First Lady Nancy Reagan, and actors Gene Wilder and Alan Rickman. Heck, we even lost actor Abe Vigoda, who everybody thought had died in the 70s, 80s, and again in the 90’s. On the flip side, Cuban dictator Fidel Castro finally bought the farm. Well, given his communist leanings, he more likely took the farm by force. 2016 saw one of the worst presidential races of all time. Sure, there

has been sleaze and mud-slinging before, but nothing like this year. We started with 17 Republicans, three Democrats, and a guy named Vermin Supreme, and finished with Donald Trump beating Hillary Clinton. I’m left thinking that we should have given Vermin Supreme a closer look. The people of the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, in a campaign referred to as “Brexit”. Angelina Jolie voted to take her little people, and leave her union with Brad Pitt, a bond known as Brangelina. Following the likes of West Nile Virus, Avian Bird Flu, Mad Cow Disease, and Ebola, 2016’s MediaDriven CootieFest was Zika. And as an added bonus, it was coupled with the Summer Olympics for extra media hype. Underscoring just how weird 2016 really was, we had the Chicago Cubs beating the Cleveland Indians in the World Series. I’m hoping 2017 will be a much less wilder, and a lot more milder. I’m thinking that’s not bound to happen though. Given that Donald Trump will be inaugurated on January 20th, that pretty much sets the stage for another interesting year. Kind of like America saying, “Hold my beer Canada, and watch this!” Brian “Father Time is getting senile” Bruchey QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS bruchey@gmail.com

DECEMBER 2016

ON THE MENU

DWAYNE’S PLACE Diner & Grill: With a Homestyle Feel

By Amy Sumerlin Photos By Chris Douglas The first thing I saw when I walked in was stacks and rows of delicious-looking, wonderfully aromatic pies. My first thought was, “Ah, time saver for Thanksgiving…” (This trip to Dwayne’s was just a couple of days before Turkey Day). But learn from my mistake: If you want to bring some pies home for Christmas, order early. Each and every pie on that counter had already been claimed. LUNCH Undaunted, we sat down for lunch in this delightfully homey restaurant. Marissa, our waitress, served up Southern hospitality and Daily Special suggestions right away. We started with the fried green tomatoes appetizer—yummy! This is important to me… if a restaurant serves Southern cuisine, there are two things that have to be perfect: Fried green tomatoes, and grits. They passed the fried green tomatoes test. Opting to save some carbs for the upcoming Thanksgiving feast, I didn’t take the day’s special, which was Beef Tips over Noodles ($9.99) but instead

18 DECEMBER 2016

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chose the Grilled Pork Chops, with the seasonal vegetables and turnip greens for the side ($10.49). I was not disappointed—it was obvious the vegetables were fresh and the turnip greens perfectly seasoned. “Serving fresh food is extremely important to me,” explained Dwayne Williams, owner of the diner, which has been open for about three and a half years. “And I only serve the best brands available. My expectations of the food always have to be higher than my guests’,” he continued. The chops were cooked just right. My husband and my mom, who joined me that day, obviously weren’t as hungry as I was. Hubby chose the patty melt ($8.99) , a sandwich for which he has a weakness, with a side of onion rings. Just so you know, he is a picky eater. No, I mean he is really picky. And not only did he like both the sandwich and the onion rings, he said it was one of the best patty melts he had eaten in a long time. Mom decided to go for the BLT ($7.99), and while I wouldn’t say she’s generally picky, she is picky about her bacon. Crispy, it must be crispy. Marissa, whom I later learned is Dwayne’s sister, promised she would make sure that Mom’s bacon would come out just right, and indeed it did.

Freddy’s for 10 years, he remained in the food industry, but moved to Mutual Wholesale Company. During his career there, he rose through the ranks to management and, in the process, received a great education about logistics, warehousing, and distribution cycles for the industry… and he would also, from the relationships with vendors that he built, learn which ones delivered the best, freshest food. His next step was back to a restaurant; he was the Chief Operating Officer for a local buffet chain, playing a key role in its growth. “But I had a vision,” he said. “I really wanted to put all that I had

learned into building my own brand.” The result was Dwayne’s Place,

nestled on Florida Avenue South,

really closer to Mulberry than the Lakeland address suggests. He started by making sure the space was clean and comfortable – and it still is. Your kids will love the game room, and I will love it when their upcoming renovations, which include a dessert room, are complete. Why? Because in that dessert room, they will be making milkshakes called Pie Shakes— your favorite pie flavors delivered by straw. The restaurant is very much a family endeavor. Those pies I keep talking about? His wife, Liesel, and her assistant, Garcia Davis, are the masterminds of the desserts. In fact, he has two sisters, two brothers, and his daughter Jamie working with him. “Really, though,” he observed, “all of my staff is like family. A lot of them have been with us since the begin-

ning. ” EXPANSION: OLE TAMPA CUBAN Another place I will have to try soon is Dwayne’s newest venture, located just one mile south of Dwayne’s (713 N. Church St, Mulberry.) At this patio style sandwich shop, homemade Cuban sandwiches —of course they are made to order—and hand-rolled devil crabs are the go-to items. Call ahead/to go orders are also encouraged here. So next time you are looking for a great restaurant in this neck of the woods, try out Dwayne’s. “Visitors to my restaurants are more than guests; more than a transaction: They are my friends.” FMI: Dwayne’s Place Diner & Grill, 6960 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813, (863) 940-2098.

HOW THE RESTAURANT CAME TO BE Dwayne started working in the restaurant industry before he could drive – when he was just 14. After working at the original (before it became a buffet) Buddy SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

DECEMBER 2016

20 DECEMBER 2016

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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

AMMO

Hatching Christmas Memories “And the Grinch, with his Grinchfeet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? Have you seen this year’s hottest Christmas toys “Hatchimals”? Take an old school Furby and breed it with a live chicken and you too can have a multi-million dollar toy empire. I am ashamed to admit, I watched for nearly 30 minutes as Dylan Dreyer from the Today Show tried to hatch her creature live. It appears American’s have lost their minds over these hatching wonders and Ebay is filled with plenty of sellers asking hundreds of dollars for the last remaining Hatchimals. It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. As the owner of five “real” hatchimals, it is easy to see why this toy is so popular. Baby chicks might be the cutest animals on the planet and the combination of anticipation and technology is a winning recipe. Selfishly, I am hoping this craze will lead to a greater appreciation of backyard flocks. And he puzzled and puzzled ‘till his puzzler was sore. The stress of consumerism during the holiday season is not a new phenomenon. My parents spent the entire 1982 Christmas season trying to find Cabbage Patch Kid for me because I had fallen in love with a display at a store called Children’s World

Ammo is a white and red male Australian Cattle Dog (Heeler) mix. He is approximately 8 months old. He has been neutered. Ammo is a hyper goofy boy. He has been around children and play with them, he is crate trained, and does well with dogs his size.

of original cloth Xavier Robert’s “Little People.” What drew me to the dolls was the store had

filled an actual playpen full of

these dolls and I was convinced

they were real babies. (You know you are from Polk County if you remember Children’s World in downtown Winter Haven).

Then the Grinch thought of

something he hadn’t before. What if

Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store?

KIKI

Kiki is a brown female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 10 months old. Kiki was found pregnant as a stray. She had her kittens and is now ready to find a home where she no longer has to know what its like to go hungry. She was a wonderful mom but its now her turn to get spoiled. She is litter box trained, likes canned cat food, and been around older children.

SUPERMAN

Superman is a black and white male Labrador Retriever mix. He is approximatley 1 year old. He is very playful. Superman loves car rides and gets along with dogs his own size. He is too playful for smaller and older dogs. He is very smart and would benefit from dog training. He is shy till he gets to know you then he will be your best friend.

In the early 1980’s Cabbage

Patch Kids were so hot; department stores actually had ticket lotteries where parents would

have to wait to see if their ticket

would be pulled just to purchase.

Unable to find a plastic doll in the stores, my parents sacrificed and

bought me Marsha Clarabelle, my beloved original cloth Cabbage Patch Kid and I am proud to

report, she is still with me today! We have even made the pilgrim-

age to Babyland General Hospital

SHEBA

Sheba is a calico female Domestic Shorthair mix. She was born on Sunday, February 17, 2013 and is 3 years old. She has been spayed. Sheba is a sweet little girl, shy and introverted but very loving when she knows you. Her owners had to move and could no longer keep her.

in Cleveland, Georgia with Marsha Clarabelle, in tow.

What if Christmas, perhaps, means

a little bit more.

Whether you find a Hatchimal

under your tree or reminisce

about your favorite childhood

toys, make your holidays merry

and bright! Wishing you the Best of New Year’s Blessings!

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

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

DECEMBER 2016

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

22 DECEMBER 2016

WILDFIRE BBQ GRILL & BAR

Our passion for BBQ run’s deep!! All starts 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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DECEMBER 2016

6TH ANNUAL AAO SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION WINTER Dance FUNDRAISER

Mixed Drinks & Wine $4 Domestic Beer $3 Call Brands $5 Finger Foods Super 50-50 Raffle “Chest-of-Cheer” Raffle Silent Auction

$35 per person use PAYPAL at RobinWagmanAAO.org

Sat. Jan. 28 2017 6:30 to 9:30 PM LAKE EVA BANQUET HALL

Why: To support the AAO Scholarship Foundation which 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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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 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 DECEMBER 2016

NOVEMBER 2016

2016 Kiwanis Club of Lake Wales Christmas Parade – Dec 10. This year’s theme is “Christmas in Toyland”. Annual nighttime Christmas Parade. Family-friendly event, illuminated floats, music, unique classic cars, and if the crowd is ‘nice’ not ‘naughty’ Santa may make an appearance! We hear he may come on a fire truck! Located Central Ave, Downtown Lake Wales. Sat, 6-8 pm. Call (863) 676-7278 for more info.

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 & Holiday Happenings Festival of Wreaths – Dec 1 to Dec 10. The Polk County History Center is proud to host the annual Festival of Wreaths. The wreaths will be displayed in the History Center. The wreaths will be sold via silent auction, with all proceeds benefitting the History Center; bidding starts at $35 or buy your favorite for $100. Located Polk County History Center, 100 E Main St, Bartow. Cost to view wreaths is Free. Call Maria (863) 534-4386 for more info. To check out the wreaths online: http:// www.polk-county.net/boccsite/our-community/ history-center/ 22nd Annual Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate – Dec 1 to Jan 8. Now in its 22nd year, the Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate is the highlight of our Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens season of holiday-themed events. The 20-room, Mediterranean-style mansion is decorated by the members of the Amaryllis Club with this year’s design theme, “I’ll Be Home For Christmas!” Visitors are invited to re-imagine the house as the center of the Buck family’s Christmas activities, a warm hub of glittering elegance taking place in post war 1940s. Locate Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd, Lk Wales. Daily, 10-5 pm. Tickets $20 Adult, $9 Children (5-12); $7 Members, $6 Children (5-12). www.boktowergardens.org Thursday Squared Food Truck Rally – Dec 8. 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. Gingerbread Houses with Mrs. Claus – Dec 11. Join Bok Tower Gardens for fun the whole family can enjoy. Decorate your own gingerbread house

and take a tour of the Holiday Home Tour. Each participant will receive their own gingerbread house to decorate and storybook to take home, which will be read by visiting Mrs. Claus. Cost $40 per child, includes admission to Holiday Home Tour, gingerbread house and storybook (price includes admission for one chaperone). Regular admission applies to additional chaperones and guests. Located at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. www.boktowergardens.org 6th Annual Make It Magical – Dec 9. This year’s theme: Christmas Around the World. Enjoy Christmas in Downtown Lake Wales presented by Lake Wales Arts Council and Main Street Lake Wales. Ring in the season with a worldwide celebration in historic downtown Lake Wales. Enjoy shopping, holiday decor and live music as you experience traditions from around the globe as this festive extravaganza brings you “Christmas Around the World” showcased by local businesses. Free admission treats guests to crafts, activities and a visit with Santa! Fri, 5-8 pm. Located Stuart Ave, Downtown Lake Wales. Call (863) 676-8426. Christmas Bricktacular - Dec 3 & 4, 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 24 to 25. Bring in the holiday season with a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree made of thousands of LEGO and DUPLO® bricks, festive decorations, a life-size LEGO® Santa, reindeer and sleigh, holiday-themed scavenger hunts with prizes and opportunities to build with LEGO alongside our Master Model Builders. Meet LEGO Santa and LEGO® Toy Soldier during daily park appearances and end the evening with a not-so-silent-night fireworks spectacular set to classic Christmas melodies. General Admission Rates Apply. Located at LEGOLAND Florida. www.florida.legoland.com Downtown Bartow Christmas Parade – Dec 9. The Main Street Bartow Magical Illumination Christmas Parade. Route: North from Mosaic Park to Broadway Ave, East on Moan Street to Frist Ave, Fri, 6-9 pm. Call (863) 519-0508 for more info. Christmas in the Village – Dec 9 & 10, 16 & 17. Florida Flywheeler’s Antique Engine Club presents this two-weekend event. Narrated journey through many acres learning about the village and gazing upon thousands of Christmas lights as they shine in the dark of the night. Throughout the journey, each tractor group makes five fun stops; the first to receive candy canes; the second to take photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus; the third for cookies and hot chocolate; and the final and “most awesome one of all” according to a kid on my tractor ride for cider, eggnog, cookies and music. Located 7000 Avon Park Cut Off Rd, Ft Meade. Fri & Sat, 6-9 pm. Cost – Collecting Toys, Canned Foods and Money Donations for the Community. Call (863) 285-9121 for more info. Christmas Notes – Dec 10. Hosted by Polk County Parks & Recreation. A holiday event for the whole family including live holiday music, photos with Santa, light refreshments, holiday kid

zone, outdoor Christmas movie and more. Free admission. Located Homeland Heritage Park, 249 Church Ave, Homeland. Sat, 5-8 pm. Call (863) 534-6911 for more info. Holly Jolly Jingle Bell Jog 5k – Dec 10. Join the City of Lakeland for this 2nd annual run through scenic Three Parks Trail. Holly jolly holiday attire is encouraged. Packets can be picked up the morning of the race at registration or at FITniche Thursday or Friday between 5:30-8 pm. Located at Cleveland Heights Golf Course, Lakeland. Race begins on Saturday at 7:30 am. Cost - $30. Timed/Chip Race. jinglebelljog@lakelandgov.net or (863) 834-6035 for more info. Bartow Ford 2016 Winter Wonderland – Dec 10. Bartow Ford is proud to be hosting and being the title sponsor for the 2nd annual Winter Wonderland event, a free, family fun, festivity for the community. In conjunction with 97 Country WPCV, combined with our annual F150 Holiday Extravaganza truck giveaway. Enjoy 64 tons of real snow, 2 snow slides and play areas, snow flurries, singing characters from “Frozen”, breakfast with Santa, 2 Polar Express Trains, face painting and more! Located Bartow Ford, 2800 US Hwy 98 North, Bartow. Sat, 9-2 pm. Call (800) 533-4025 ext 239 for more info. Haines City Breakfast with Santa – Dec 10. Haines City Parks & Recreation present Breakfast with Santa on December 10th from 9am-12 pm. Join us for breakfast and meet Santa & Mrs. Claus! Don’t forget to bring your camera! Location: TBD Please check back online at www. hainescity.com, on Facebook or call (863) 4213700 for more info. 2016 Jingle Bell Classic – Dec 10. Presented by the LowPaymentKings.com Runners, joggers and walkers can have fun, maybe take home a trophy, and help the friends of The Winter Haven Public Library raise money for the Children’s Dept at the Winter Haven Library. 10k race starts at 7 am, 5k run at 8:30 am, and the 1-mile dog jog or walk starts at 9:30 am. Kid’s Zone in Central Park open during the event. Packet pick up at the Winter Haven Library, 325 Ave A, NW on Thurs 7 Fri. Race starts and finishes at the Winter Haven Library. Register at https://register.chromotrack. com/r/24983 Magic on Main Street Christmas Parade – Dec 10. Located Town of Dundee Main Street. Begins behind the Winn Dixie and ends and the Community Center. Sat, 10 am. City of Davenport’s Winterfest – Dec 10. Festivities include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, electric nighttime parade (begins at 6 pm), cookie decorating, Festival of Trees, games, vendors and snow. All festivities after the parade are held at Wilson Park, Davenport. Sat, 5-9 pm. www.mydavenport.org Call (863) 419-3300 for more info.

Come to the Stable and to Bethlehem Square – Dec 10. A living nativity with angels, shepherds and their sheep, kings and the Holy Family with their donkey. Enjoy live music and a beautiful setting under the stars. Following the nativity presentations, guests will gather in Bethlehem Square for food and drink similar to the food in Jesus’ time, enjoy more music and in-door activities for the children. The children will be invited to pet the sheep and donkey at the stable. Located First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven, 637 6th Street NW, Winter Haven. Sat, 6:30 & 7:30 pm. Call (863) 294-3121 for more info. Magic on Main Street Christmas Parade – Dec 10. Located Town of Dundee Main Street. Sat, 10 am-12 pm. City of Davenport’s Winterfest – Dec 10. Festivities include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, electric nighttime parade (starts at 6 pm), cookie decorating, Festival of Trees, games and vendors, Located Wilson Park, State Street, Davenport. Sat, 4-9 pm. www. mydavenport.org Santa Paws Jr. – Dec 13. A social mixer hosted by Jensen’s Corner Bar to raise money for the Humane Society of Polk County – Polk’s No Kill Shelter. Enjoy the holiday spirit while assisting animals in need. Music by Dan Signor, Raffles, Light Appetizers, Specialty Drinks. Smoke-free facility. $10 cover per person –or- bring a bag of dog/ cat food, cat litter per person. Located Jensen’s Corner Bar, 3rd Street, Downtown Winter Haven. Tuesday, 5:30-10 pm. Snow Central – Dec 16. Winter Haven’s favorite winter wonderland event will be returning in 2016 at a new location – the Chain of Lakes Park. Come out and enjoy the Snow Pile, Snow Slides, Pictures with Santa, Home Depot craft area, Cookie Decorating, lights, music, food and more! Located at Chain of Lakes Park (behind the Chain O Lakes Complex), Winter Haven. Cost - $2 per adult, $1 per child. Fri, 5-9 pm. Call (863) 2915656 for more info. Santa’s Run for our Kids – Dec 17. The Winter Haven Optimist Club is hosting a 10K run, 5K run/ walk, and Kids 1/2 mile Fun Run. The race route proceeds along the banks of three beautiful lakes and neighborhoods. The course is fairly flat with only a smattering of gentle “hills”. The Kids’ run will be conducted on the Central Park Walking Path. Located Central park, Downtown Winter Haven. Registration starts at 6:30 am, 10k starts at 7:30 am, 5k Run/Walk starts at 8 am, Kids’ Run starts at 9 am, Awards at 9:15 am. www.whoptimist5k10k.com for more info. Season’s Screenings: Movie Under the Stars at Lake Eva – Dec 16 & 22. Join the Haines City Parks & Rec for a movie under the stars during our Christmas movie series! Bring your friends, family & blankets to Lake Eva Park for a FREE showing of Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas on Friday, Dec 16 from 7-9 pm and The Polar Express on Thursday, Dec 22 from 7-9 pm. Located at Lk Eva Park, Downtown Haines City. Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show Christmas Edition – Dec 17. Free Water Ski Show from the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Special Christmas Show. Concessions with snacks and drinks available. Bring your blanket or lawn chair

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for seating. Located Martin Luther King Jr Park, 100 Lk Silver Dr, Winter Haven. Sat, 3:30 & 4:30 pm. www.cypressgardenswaterskiteam.com Public Ice Skating: Winter Season – Dec 20 to Jan 1. Located at the Lakeland Center. Cost - $10 Adults and $9 Children 12 & under ($8 w/own skates). For times and sessions available: www. thelakelandcenter.com

Farmers’ Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows Haines City Marketplace – Wednesdays. Visiting the Haines City Farmers Market is just the thing to do on a Wednesday! You can’t beat the fresh taste of produce these growers and produce resellers have to offer. Open year-round, the Haines City Farmers Market will always provide you with the freshest produce in Central Florida. Located in Haines City’s Railroad Park, located across the street from our Public Library and City Hall. Wed, 8am-2 pm. Main Street Bartow Farmers’ Market – Wednesdays. The Farmers Market vendors offer a wide variety of products including produce, dips and soup mixes, jams, jellies, pickles, honey, pies, candied apples, relishes, pecan and peanut brittle, and crafts. Food vendors available. Located Fort Blount Park at the corner of Main Street and Broadway Ave, Bartow. Wed, 10-2 pm. 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. Downtown Bartow Antique Fair – Dec 10. 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. Second Saturday Cruise-In – Dec 10. Presented by the City of Auburndale. Located in the downtown city park. Sat, 4-8 pm. Call (863) 965-5545 for more info. Lake Wales Farmers’ Market – Dec 10 & 24. 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. Main Street Bartow Friday Fest – Dec 16. 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. Uptown Yard Sale & Flea Market – Dec 17. 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. Lake Wales Car Show – Dec 24. 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.

4th Saturday Market Downtown Winter Haven – Dec 24. 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, live music top 40s and jazz by Nick Herbert. Bring your chair and enjoy the live music. Free event. Everyone welcome. Located Central Park, 5th St SW, Downtown Winter Haven. Sat, 9-3 pm.

Concerts & Theatre Lundyville Music Hall – Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays. Wed, 7:30-10 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) 9841144 or www.lundyville.com for more info. Almost, Maine – Dec 1 to 18. Presented by Theatre Winter Haven. A romantic comedy. On a cold, clear, moonless night in the middle of winter, all is not quite what it seems in the remote, mythical town of Almost, Maine. As the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend—almost—in this delightful midwinter night’s dream. Located Theatre Winter Haven, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. Thurs-Sat, 7:30 pm and Sun, 2:30 pm. Cost - $21 Adults, $17 Students. www.theatrewinterhaven. com for more info. Fame the Musical – Dec 6. A full throttle journey traversing the struggles, fears and triumphs of young artists navigating the worlds of dance, music and theatre. Conceived from the unforgettable Academy Award-winning film and subsequent Emmy Award-winning television series, this unmistakable title has been brilliantly transformed into riveting musical theatre. Located at The Lakeland Center. Tues, 7:30 pm. Elf Jr. The Musical – Dec 9 to 11. Eunice Full Theatre for the youth. A family-friendly production. Located at Lakeland Community Theatre, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland. Rated G. Fri, 6:30 pm. Sat 10:30 am & 6:30 pm. Sun, 2 pm. Cost - $15 Adults, $12 Child (12 and under). www.lakelandcommunitytheatre.com ISO Holiday Concert – Dec 10. The Imperial Symphony Orchestra is returning to Winter Haven for a second year to celebrate the holiday season with a concert presented by the Symphony Guild of Winter Haven and conducted by Maestro Mark Thieles. Located Polk State College Fine Arts Theatre, Winter Haven Campus, 999 Ave H NE, Winter Haven. Sat, 3 pm. Tickets - $20 Adults. $10 Students. Tickets available online or at the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. www.thesymphonyguild.com A Gift for the Holidays: The Christmas Gala – Dec 10. The FSC Music Department’s Christmas Gala has become an essential holiday music tradition for the college and greater community. This year’s edition offers a wonder-filled array of musical favorites performed by music department students and faculty, joined by special invited guests from FSC’s musical theatre program and the Florida Dance Theatre. Located Florida Southern College, Branscomb Auditorium, 111 Lk Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland. Sat, 2:30 & 7:30 pm. Cost - $8 Adults, $4 Students. Call (863) 6804296 for more info.

high-energy and polished production. Located at The Lakeland Center. Wed, 7:30 pm. Cost - $35, $30, $25. Call (863) 834-8111 or www.thelakelandcenter.com for more info. Florida Dance Theatre presents Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker – Dec 17 & 18. A breathtaking production features colorful scenery, dazzling costumes, and entrancing choreography. As a special treat, community children join the professional dancers, creating a family-friendly, feel-good performance event. Adding distinct holiday flair to the season’s Festival of Fine Arts performances, this is the perfect seasonal gift to the entire family. Located at Branscomb Auditorium, Florida Southern College, Lakeland. Sat, 7:30 pm and Sun, 2:30 pm. Cost - $18 Adults, $9 Children. Call (863) 680-4296 or www.flsouthern.edu for ticket info. Trans-Siberian Orchestra – Dec 17 & 18. A great way to catch the holiday spirit. This year’s theme is “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve”. Enjoy this rock holiday tradition for a new generation. Playing four shows for the holidays in Central Florida: Amway Center in Orlando on Saturday, December 17th at 3:30 pm and 8 pm. Amalie Arena in Tampa on Sunday, December 18th at 3 pm and 7:30 pm. For ticket info, www.livenation.com Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker – Dec 27. The ultimate holiday tradition for the youngest to the seniors in every family, seeing Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker creates holiday memories that last a lifetime. The renowned, award-winning principal dancers and corps de ballet thrill audiences with their expertise, dramatic expression and stunning leaps, drops and turns. Located in the Youkey Theatre at the Lakeland Center. Tues, 7 pm. Cost – VIP $175 & $102, $68, $48, $37.50, $28. www.thelakelandcenter. com for more info. 42nd Street – Jan 2. The quintessential backstage musical comedy classic. Based on a novel by Bradford Ropes and Busby Berkeley’s 1933 movie, 42nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer who leaves her Allentown home and comes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical Pretty Lady. When the leading lady breaks her ankle, Peggy takes over and becomes a star. This sparkling new production will be directed by co-author Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner, the team who staged the 2001 Tony Award-winning Best Musical Revival. Located at The Lakeland Center. Mon, 7:30 pm. Cost - $60, $50, $45. Call (863) 834-8111 or www.thelakelandcenter.com for more info. Presley, Perkins, Lewis and Cash – Jan 4. A tribute to and celebration of the legendary Sun Records recording artists Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis & Johnny Cash. The audience will get the feeling they’re a witness to a rock and roll royalty jam session with the music and talent that has stood the test of time. From Blue Suede Shoes and Hound Dog to Great Balls of Fire and Walk the Line the show energizes and exudes pure 1950s rock and roll. Located at The Lakeland Center. Wed, 7:30 pm. Cost - $44, $39, $34. Call (863) 834-8111 or www.thelakelandcenter.com for more info.

ISO Masterwork Series: A Victorian Holiday – Dec 13. Celebrate sounds of the season. Located in the Youkey Theatre at The Lakeland Center, Lakeland. Tues, 7:30-9pm. Cost - $40, $30, $20. Call (863) 688-3743 or www.imperialsymphony.org for more info. Let’s Hang On: America’s #1 Tribute to Frankie Valli and The 4 Seasons – Dec 14. A group of 10 seasoned entertainers who are preserving the music and style of the iconic group Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Respectfully paying tribute to all the classics. They also pay tribute to the Broadway show, The Jersey Boys. Let’s Hang On! captures the trademark vocal virtuosity, tight harmonies, and crisp choreography that made The Four Seasons one of the greatest vocal groups of all time. This full blown stage show includes all the great Four Seasons’ mega hits all presented in a

DECEMBER 2016

BRAINEXCERCISE Sudoku Puzzle STRANGE BUT TRUE BY SAMANTHA WEAVER

• It was noted American playwright and essayist Arthur Miller who gave the following sage advice: “Don’t be seduced into thinking that that which does not make a profit is without value.” • In the early 20th century, celebrated racehorse Man o’ War won 20 of his 21 career races. Interestingly, his one loss (often attributed to a terrible start and the extra weight he was carrying) was to a horse named Upset. • Statistically speaking, you probably live within 320 miles of the place you were born. • Have you ever experienced a social situation in which you have to introduce someone, but you can’t quite remember their name? In Scotland, there’s a word to describe the hesitation caused by that moment of panic: a tartle. • According to a poll conducted by outdoor recreation retailer Gander Mountain, almost half of all hunters have some kind of ritual they observe to increase their chances for a lucky hunt. Some hunters go the entire season without shaving, some start each hunt at a particular time, some kiss the first bullet, some do an “anti-rain” dance -- the variations are endless.

TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez

1. FOOD & DRINK: What is another name for the filbert nut? 2. TELEVISION: What was Chandler’s last name on the comedy series “Friends”? 3. ARCHITECTURE: Who designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.? 4. LANGUAGE: Where did the term “the blind leading the blind” originate? 5. MYTHOLOGY: In one of Hercules’ fabled labors, he had to slay a beast that kept sprouting new heads. What was its name? 6. U.S. CITIES: What city carries the nickname “Iron City”? 7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: The direction of starboard on a boat means what? 8. LITERATURE: What famous Latin American author wrote the novel “The General in his Labyrinth”? 9. MUSIC: Where did the Rolling Stones get their name? 10. MONEY: Prior to the euro, what was the name of Greece’s currency? Answers 1. Hazelnut 2. Bing 3. Architect Maya Lin 4. Hindu texts, the Upanishads. The phrase also appears in the Bible. 5. Hydra 6. Pittsburgh 7. The right side of a boat when looking forward 8. Gabriel Garcia Marquez 9. From a Muddy Waters blues song 10. The drachma

ANSWERS

• Getting married soon, but working with a tight budget? If you’re considering cutbacks, you might not want to put the honeymoon on the chopping block. Researchers have found that couples who go on a honeymoon tend to have longer-lasting marriages than those who skip the trip -- no matter how much or how little you spend.

28 DECEMBER 2016

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DECEMBER 2016

Key Fobs, Hats & Coozies

Binoculars Monarch

Travelite

A336NDY T HORNAL COMPANY Magnolia Ave SW • Winter Haven, Florida 33880

(863)299-9999 • AndyThornal.com • Mon - Sat • 10am-6pm

- Arrive in Style •

No matter the destination.

A336NDY T HORNAL COMPANY Magnolia Ave SW • Winter Haven, Florida 33880

(863)299-9999 • AndyThornal.com • Mon - Sat • 10am-6pm 30 DECEMBER 2016

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POP OFF at

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Culture

By Double T

Cyber-Santa How many important emails have you missed because you get one 1 out of 100 LAST CHANCE for 80% off emails from the SAME company! Please! How can it be last chance if you are giving me so many chances? One day only...order before midnight… Wait a minute, didn’t I get the same one day only yesterday and the order before midnight at midnight last night? It’s confusing and clogs up email files worse than catalogs in the mailbox. Cyber-Santas beware, deals are everywhere most all of the time. “Last chance” like the ‘Going Out of Business” signs on stores that have been there for years. I can’t count the emails I have gotten not just for Cyber Monday, but before the holidays. They began back in September, before Halloween. Now, that is scary. The lag of time between when the shopping days of Christmas are closing in get farther and farther apart. On December 25 of this month, I hope someone has the humor to email me and say, “Only 365 days left before Christmas! Hurry! It’s only 52 weeks away! It has been the same amount of time since Christmas time began. When people ask, “How did Christmas get here so fast?” the answer is simple. A year is fast. Life is short. Life is precious. We only get 29,930 days on the planet if we live to be 82. Yikes! Talk about

By ANASTASIA ZIVIC

scary. (I should have written that for Halloween.) Truth of it is, whether you are shopping online or waiting in ridiculously long lines for a great deal, the deal is, ENJOY it! If you are stressing, it’s not a blessing! Every day we get to give a gift is a gift in itself. Keep the emails coming and I will enjoy hearing the little tone ring every time it chimes when I get a new email. It’s like my own personal angel on the tree. Which last chance is it now? Is it for the furry moccasins, the fur-lined parka, the snow sled or anything else we don’t need here in Florida? What we do need here and everywhere is Christmas cheer. Please remember those who don’t even have an email address. Remember the forgotten and you will remember the blessing a long time from now. When you look for deals, that is the best deal of all. LAST CHANCE! Less than 12 months to go before next Christmas! Let’s take less time online and in line and more time with those we love or who need love.

GROVE ROOTS BREWING CO.

302 3rd St SW, Winter Haven T&T MAG: How long have you been a bartender? JULIA: Since we opened, so about 2 1/2 months. This is my first bartending job. T&T MAG: How did you become a bartender: JULIA: I love craft beer, and my family is close with the owner, Joe’s family, and I was really interested in being a part of everything! T&T MAG: What is your favorite thing about your job? JULIA: Definitely the social aspect. I’m usually kind of a homebody, so this job gives me plenty of opportunities to meet new people even though I grew up here, and so did my mom and her mom, etc. T&T MAG: What is one crazy thing you experience as a bartender? JULIA: Fortunately I’ve never had any negative encounters as a bartender because we’re a brewery and its not the typical scene a “bartender” would see! I do think its crazy to see how so many of the people I talk to have come from far and wide to visit the brewery! And our little town of Winer Haven! Its cool to hear the stories of their hometowns. T&T MAG: Your favorite drink to drink? JULIA: Alcoholic? Beer. T&T MAG: Your favorite beer at Grove Roots Brewery Co. and why? JULIA: Definitely “Toast”. I love them all, but our Oatmeal Brown Ale is amazing. Its not heavy, but its not too light either, which I like. I can drink it any time. T&T MAG: What is one thing the average person does not know about you? JULIA: I’m kind of an old hippie soul. I’m 23 but

I love older music and movies from the 1950’s. I’m also kind of obsessed with Bob Marley and his whole outlook on life. T&T MAG: Name something on your bucket list? JULIA: Hang out with an elephant. That’s number one for sure! T&T MAG: What do you do in your spare time? JULIA: In addition to working at Grove Roots I’m also a full-time student! So, if I have any spare time I usually like to just hang outside my house on my hammock with my dog and just chill. T&T MAG: Do you have any hobbies? JULIA: Anything outdoors. I love nature and the fresh air. T&T MAG: Who are you inspired by? JULIA: Probably so cliche, but definitely my mom. She’s like a superhero and she makes me a better person every day. T&T MAG: Pick one – Jumping from a plane, ice skating, rap battle, beach day? JULIA: Beach day. I’m totally a mermaid. T&T MAG: If you could pour a drink for anyone in the world, who would it be and why? JULIA: Bob Marley. Just so I could sit and listen to him talk. T&T MAG: Why should people come to your bar and have a drink? JULIA: There’s no place like this bar in Winter Haven, and maybe not even in Polk County. Its kind of hard to call it a bar because its so homey. You can bring your kids, meet up with old friends, bring your dog. Its kind of like a home away from home. T&T MAG: In closing, you’d like to say? JULIA: Hopefully, if you haven’t already, this will make you want to make your way to Grove Roots! It’s kind of the coolest place in town!

DECEMBER 2016

SARA MICHAELS’

PORCH Music... The Gift That Keeps on Giving Christmas is right around the corner and why not give the gift that keeps on giving?!?! Music!!! I’ve selected three of the best releases from 2016 for your stocking stuffing pleasure! MIRANDA LAMBERT “THE WEIGHT OF THESE WINGS” The much anticipated double cd package was released last month to critical acclaim! Many wondered if this would be a “revenge” album at her former husband Blake Shelton… the answer is, not at all. I was four songs into the album before I realized that Miranda has yet to set anything on fire or shoot her boyfriend in her lyrics! Our little girl is growing up! I’m a big fan of story-telling and Miranda hits a home run with this release. It debuted on top of the Billboard Charts the week of its release. You will find maturity in her lyrics, and a wide melodic spectrum that leaves you impatiently wanting more! After listening to the album several times, I truly believe this is the most personal album Miranda has ever put out. Anderson East (Miranda’s new beau) wrote a passage about Miranda Lambert in the book that accompanies her new CD “The Weight of These Wings.” The passage reads ... “You could almost say God isn’t fair sometimes. For one person or in this case, one woman, to possess so many gifts at once seems otherworldly. The beautiful realization is that those gifts aren’t kept hidden, they’re on display and given so graciously to the world in a way that’s natural, effortless and sincere. This world would be a far more beautiful place if there were more people that possessed the heart, talent and more importantly, the love that she does. To know and witness her is a gift I will cherish forever and a day. If any of us are lucky enough to brush up against it, we should consider ourselves lucky.” GARTH BROOKS “THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION” This Target-exclusive 10-CD box set sold very strong in its first week (also released in November). The box set includes old hits, new songs, cover songs, live songs and more. You will get over 120 songs for under $30. The box set also includes Garth’s latest album “Gunslinger” with his current hit single “Baby Let’s Lay Down and Dance” on it. You don’t have to buy the entire box set to get Garth’s latest

32 DECEMBER 2016

CD, but gees…why not for that price!? On November 25th Gunslinger was released as its own standalone album to all physical retailers, as well as a digital and streaming album through Amazon. However, though his sales were tremendous with the box set…you won’t find it on Billboard charts. The price of the box set is $29.99 – so it falls below the minimum required price to chart ($3.49 for a single, or $3.49 times the amount of discs in a multi-disc box set, in the title’s first four weeks of release). Which is a bunch of mumbo jumbo political money making bologna that the average person doesn’t care about, and neither does Garth! He is quoted in saying “Hey, keep your chart. I’m not going to raise the price for the people to pay for the music just to be on somebody’s chart. That’s not my thing.” God Bless Garth. MARGO PRICE “MIDWEST FARMER’S DAUGHTER” Missing from mainstream radio and charts is this incredible vocalist from Illinois. She is everything the country music listeners have been begging for. She is the female version of Chris Stapleton. Unique. Country. Talented. She’s a songwriter’s dream and an outlaw to today’s country standards. I saw her perform at CountryFlo in November and was even more blown away by her crisp, clear voice. Margo’s album sits at Number 21 on Rolling Stone’s Best Albums of 2016. As I wrap up this article, I’ll leave you with a quote from Rolling Stone. “The CMA ignored Margo Price at their 50th awards show in November, but they did so at their own peril. This Illinois troublemaker’s debut album, released on Jack White’s Third Man Records, is a marvel from a modern outlaw. Price lays it all bare, singing in her Loretta Lynn yodel about the death of a child in “Hands of Time,” her skeevy experiences with Nashville music men in “This Town Gets Around” and, in “Weekender,” even a stint in the can. In a town where “honest” and “authentic” are thrown around to suggest credibility, Price needn’t even speak the words, she just lives them.”

BY SARA MICHAELS Host of “On The Porch” Monday - Friday, 3pm - 7pm 97 Country WPCV, 97.5 FM

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DECEMBER 2016

On behalf of the Foundation Board of Trustees, we would like to express our gratitude to our 2016 Gala sponsors. Additionally, a special thanks to this year’s Dinner Sponsor – Central Florida Health News, Auction Sponsor – Mahalak Auto Group, and Bar Sponsors – VITAS Healthcare and Today & Tonight Magazine. Thank you again for your continued leadership and investment in this important community initiative which is of such value to Winter Haven Hospital and the patients we serve. Sincerely,

Lynn Oakley Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Trustee Gala Planning Committee Chair

Bronze Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors Ben Hill Griffin, Inc. Bright House Networks The Cassidy Family Comcar Harvard Jolly Architecture

Don and Christine Ingram Lynn and Tommy Oakley Straughn & Turner, P.A. Sun Central Media Group, Inc. Tucker Paving, Inc.

Gold Sponsors 97 Country WPCV and Max 98.3 Allen & Company of Florida, Inc. BayCare Health System Citizens Bank & Trust Doster Construction Company, Inc. Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. Fidelity Investments

Morgan Stanley – Scheck/Lewis/Moraco Group Polk State College Publix Super Markets Charities RICOH USA, Inc. TeamHealth Victor Smith Law Group, P.A.

Silver Sponsors Adamson + CO.,P.A. Advanced Care Hospitalists A&E Auto Body, Inc. – Michael and Vicki Arrington Bob and Carol Carter

CenterState Bank Intercoastal Payroll Solutions – John and Beth Dial Radiology & Imaging Specialists Tampa Electric

For more information on how you can help take health care in Polk County to the next level of excellence, call the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation at (863) 291-6732. 34 DECEMBER 2016

Adams Hall Schieffelin & Smith, P.A. Sarah Jane and John Alexander Lance and Sherry Anastasio Howard and Cheryl Beckert Dr. Inder and Angela Bhutiani Dr. and Mrs. Robert Cassell CenState Contractors, Inc. – Scott and Kim Short Central Florida Development Council, Inc. Dr. and Mrs. David Evans John H. Gray Alan and Beverly Gustafson Henkelman Construction, Inc.

Sam and Eileen Killebrew Julien L. McCall Family Foundation Steve and Angie Nierman Dr. Jamie and Stephanie Odom Party Rentals Unlimited Pediatrix Medical Group, Inc. – Dr. Maria Kong and Dr. Jennifer Fynn Platinum Bank SIX/TEN, LLC Taylor & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.L. Dr. Peter and Lenore Verrill Wells Fargo

A Special Note of Appreciation ABC Fine Wine and Spirits A Chair Affair Rentals Ally Onsite Rentals Arabellas Ristorante City of Winter Haven Dunkin’ Donuts® East Coast Entertainment The Gardenia Garden Club Holiday Inn Winter Haven

Huston Cadillac Buick GMC International Diamond Center Kirby Rentals, LLC. Jessie’s Girls Party Guys, Inc. Mr. David Schall Seminole Pride Noble Juice Mrs. Kim Short Winter Haven Municipal Airport

BC1608471-1116

Lance Anastastio, Chairman Winter Haven Hospital Foundation

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Nov. 25 thru Jan. 8, 10am - 5pm

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Home for the Holidaysâ&#x20AC;?

Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate $20/adult, $9/child (ages 5-12)

December 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert w/ Orlando Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra $20/adult, $8/child (ages 5-12)

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