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DECEMBER 2017

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4 DECEMBER 2017

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Pop

Culture

By Mary Joye

Online Wish List to Cyber Santa This past month I’ve had 4 weddings in four weekends. Shopping online was a necessity. There were gift registries for these weddings and I do try to accommodate those. Stores seldom carry the item in stock that is on the registry. Christmas had overtaken the regular gifts. Carols were playing everywhere. Gifts were to be found nowhere but online. I did get a card. I did sign it with my own hand in cursive writing. Very archaic, but human. I thought to myself it’s a good thing we don’t have Christmas registries for little kids to Santa but then I thought, I’ll bet there is. There are! Little kids can put their wish list to Santa online. What is an elf to do? I guess the reindeer have been replaced by FedEx. You can’t believe how many websites there are where children can register for gifts. It sounds nice. Is that naughty? It feels a bit greedy and impersonal. Does Santa have Wi Fi up yonder? I understand that waiting in line to see Santa can be daunting and sometimes frightening to small children but online wish lists? There are so many ways this could present an issue with presents. There are some kids who may be asking for a small private island in the South Pacific or a Learjet. Boy, will they be disappointed unless their last name is Trump or Gates. This online wish list to Santa sort of blows my mind. Are families not asking children, “What would you like Santa to bring you this year?” Are we that connected to our computers and that disconnected to family? Are we that out of touch with the meaning of giving and receiving? To the aforementioned online shopping I had to do, I actually printed out a picture of the item and put it

September 7, 2015

• Buy an extra moving, gift and wrap just in case you • “When use it, foam plates have forgotten someone. you pickplates. something as separators for yourIf dinner gender-neutral, you could yourUse kitchen towels to keep wrapit for serving self if it goes won’t caught platters. If unneeded. you have You a box thatbesepaoff-guard when drop someone youjar forgot put on rates glasses, a spice intoto each your list stops by with gift forand you.you’ll glass. Use all the aspace,

have fewer boxes to move.” — P.L. in

• South Here’s Carolina a great rule of thumb when planning a large holiday dinner: For every side dish To remove stubborn hard-water that• requires extra preparation time, plan for deposits fromdon’t. a shower head (withone or two that For instance, if you are out removing it), use trick: Add preparing a casserole withthis many ingredients oracomplicated servetoa apackage cup of plaininstructions, white vinegar zipofper-top vegetables that requires nothing more sandwich bag (or a larger bagthan steaming. If you are preparing a time-consumwith added vinegar to fit larger show-

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 screw? Place a A CHRISTMAS PARTY wide rubber band over the head WITH PURPOSE and insert your drill. The rubber band fills in Ifthe spots but andfeelmakes theby the youstripped love to entertain, pressured drill catch thetalk screw. Ita party works most ofme, holiday rush,towhy not host with a To purpose? I love about food. time.” D.D. Nebraska Athe tree-trimming party isinone of the easiest ways to food is the—universal common denomhave fun gathering family and friends while • a“Make audiofor recordings or short inator, because everyone has to eat. getting some of your holiday decorating done. It’s videos of you reading your children’s Ibestlove talking strangers about to schedule your with party early in December, favorite books,crush then play forandthem beforefoods the holiday of shopping holidayor the they loved as a child, whenare you areforce. busyIfdoing housework, events in full possible, give your guests recipes they like to prepare, because cooking.” — K.A. in Oreatworking least two or to four weeks notice. those gon stories are often some of their happiest and a window • If you memories have sticky zipper, try run-into Preparing fora the party: their culture. ning candle along the zipper face,before • Setaup your tree and string it with lights Myguests special Vegetable your arrive.itClear out area around then zipping upRoasted andthedown a fewthe tree sotimes. everyone hasrecipe easy access the ornaments. Croustade is toa hang crowd-pleaser. • Add festiveappetizer garlands or pine cone roping It’sSend a great or side your tips to Now Here’s adish Tip, for around who the fireplace, over the doors and a folks aren’t vegetarians, lovely 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando,throughout FL the house. Add colorful ornaments in decorative 32803. main course for those who are, and

Croustade Will Tempt Even Non-Vegetarians

in a card because it was back ordered. As I apologized for that, many of the other shower guests shared that me printing out a picture and getting a card and putting it in a gift bag was above and beyond what they did. Wow! I feel old-fashioned. I guess the wave of the future is here. Speaking of waves, you get to see a FREE video of Santa waving and talking on one of these gift websites. Wow, Santa for free at your video convenience. It is a germ-free way to avoid the lines. Perhaps telecommunication with Santa may be less invasive than sitting in some stranger’s lap and noticing the fake beard. However, we may be missing the gift of humanity. The three wise men traveled for two years to give gifts across the desert. Gives you some something to think about the true meaning of giving and receiving. They followed the star and that was pretty high-tech for back then. So, I’m not going to judge cyber Santa. He has probably been spread too thin for too long. Just let me know if Rudolph and the gang are out to pasture. Happy Holidays! QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

King Features Weekly Service

POP OFF

ing dessert, buy a prepared pie or fresh fruit salad and whipped topping. Don’t overstress yourself in the kitchen.

glass bowls and vases and place them around the

• To give your home a holiday aroma, place a ROASTED VEGETABLE few cinnamon sticks or 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, 2 tablespoons ofCROUSTADE vanilla and 3 cups of water in a pot and bring it to a boil. Play your favorite holiday To Roast themood. Vegetables: music to set the 1 cup olive divided • Fill an assortmentoil, of baskets, tins or decorative boxes3withred red, potatoes, green, gold orscrubbed white tissue and paper or colorfulquartered shredded paper and carefully place your2ornaments in the baskets along withinto hooks or yellow squash, sliced ribbon to hang them on the tree. If your ornament 1/2-inch-thick slices collection includes treasured heirlooms, hang them 10 either Brussels sprouts, yourself, before guests arrivehalved or wait to hang onions, them4untilgreen after they’ve left. root ends • Ask your guests to decorate an ornament or removed two and themcarrot, on the tree. kids cut 1 hang large cutHave intothe1/2-inch out ornaments from construction paper and decopieces rate the front with markers, sticker and glitter. You 2 celery roots, peeled, trimmed also can make and bake your own ornaments (see andforcut into 1/2-inch recipes below Cinnamon Dough andpieces Salt Dough 1 large ofplain garlic, separatOrnaments) or youhead can buy wooden ornaments from Have your guests decorate eda craft intostore. cloves, smashed and them with peeled paints or markers and write their names and the date on the back. 1 teaspoon salt • To make old-fashioned garlands, set-up large 1 of popcorn teaspoon black pepper bowls or cranberries, large sewing nee2 spools tablespoons seasoning dles and of heavy red,Italian gold or green thread for1/4 guests to use to string the decorations for the teaspoon sugar

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.

• “In my family, you come to a holiday dinner with your own plastic containers for leftovers. If you don’t bring your own, you don’t go home with tomorrow’s lunch. Mom instituted this rule after the first Thanksgiving when all the kids had moved out. We practically cleaned her out of Tupperware!” -- E.Y. in New Mexico • Want to beat clutter but need to start slowly? Try this trick: Put a date label (the peel-off kind) on seldom-used items. Then if you use the item, remove the sticker. In a few months, re-evaluate what items still have stickers. • Soak cloudy glassware in hot vinegar for 15 minutes to clear them up. Wash good crystal by hand only, never in a dishwasher.

• “New use for an old, useless key: Keep one handy to use as a bootscrape.” -- I.G. in North Carolina

tree. Thread the needles the remaining 1/2before cupyourofguests oil,arrive, the but do not cutsquash, the thread from the spool.sprouts, It will take potatoes, Brussels a lot of thread for thecarrot, popcorn garland an green onions, celeryto cover roots, entire tree. garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning It’s best to slide the piece of popcorn or cranberand sugar until the vegetables are ry to the end of the thread to prevent knots. Make coated. Carefully place vegetables on sure that it is well-secured, so that popcorn or cranthe heated pan roast forcut15thetothread. 20 berries won’t fall off,and and then gently minutes, stirring once after • Set a table with simple finger foods10 andminappeutes. Allow vegetables totheme, coolorbefore tizers with a winter or Christmas purchase mixing with the tofu cream platters from your local grocery store filling. or gourmet deli.

To Make Tofu Cream Filling: • Serve athe variety of drinks, including hot chococontainer (4punch ounces) light late,1coffee, eggnog, cider and water. whipped cream cheese • Purchase some mini Christmas stockings as 4 gifts. ounces soft, tofu, parting Fill them withsilken a selection of holiday chocolatesdrained or peppermint sticks, or for the children, a1/2 Christmas puzzle or holiday cheese coloring book with cup Parmesan crayons. 1/2 cup light mayonnaise Remember, relax, haveItalian fun, make memories, and 1 tablespoon seasoning have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

ter- or ol spray, ligh casserole d Place shee pieces of f overlappin croustade spray the p 3. Place baking dis lapping th cream-che the pastry. center, fol the filling, form a bow In a sma and water t pastry wit croustade

CINNAMON ORNAMENTS 3/4 cup applesauce 1 cup cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground cloves 1 tablespoon nutmeg

1. Heat oven to 150 F. 2. Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl. Work dough until smooth. Dust rolling surface and pin with more cinnamon, and roll the dough to 1/3 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shape, and make a hole near the top with a straw or pencil. Makes 12-14 medium ornaments. 3. Bake for 2 1/2 hours on an ungreased cookie sheet, flipping halfway through the baking time. Cool on a wire cookie rack. When completely cooled, paint with acrylic paints or markers. String a piece of ribbon or raffia through the hole. SALT DOUGH ORNAMENTS 1 cup flour 1/2 cup salt 1/2 cup water

In a large bowl, mix together the whipped cream cheese, tofu, 1. Heat oven to 250 F. Parmesan, Italian sea2. Combinemayonnaise, all of the ingredients in a medium soning, salt and pepper until smooth. bowl. Work the dough until smooth; add a little Refrigerate for or30 minutes to ifblend more flour if sticky, a little more water crumbly. flavors. Mix surface the cooled, roasted Dust the rolling and pin with more vegeflour, and rollwith the dough 1/3 inch thickness. tables the totofu cream filling until 3. Use cookie cutters to cut out shape, and make well-blended.

the pastry allow to c a spatula, from the b sheets of move it on warm or at

To Make the2 hours Croustade: 4. Bake for on an ungreased cookie 1 Coolsheet frozen sheet. on a wire cookiepuff rack.pastry, When completely cooled, paint with acrylic paints or markers. String thawed a piece ribbon or raffia through the hole. Makes 1 of egg 15-20 ornaments.water 1 medium tablespoon 1. Thaw pastry sheet at room tem-5 DECEMBER 2017 perature for 40 minutes. The oven should already be heated to 400 F if the vegetables were roasted in it, or

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

a hole near the top with a straw or pencil.

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

TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 14 Issue 5 December 2017

Grove Roots

18 Grove Roots 21 12 Days of Christmas

Cocktails

30 Backstage Pass with Polkweed Muzique

COLUMNS: 5

Pop Off at Pop Culture

Kitchen Diva

Now Here’s a Tip

Brian's Brain

21 The Sweet Spot 28 On-o-mato-poe-ia

THE FUN & AMUSING: 32 Brain Exercise 32 Crossword

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

21 12 Days of Christmas Cocktails

26 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 article about Grove Roots and a new upcoming band Polkweed Muzique. 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 GRANT STAR

Backstage Pass with Polkweed Muzique

ERICA SMITH BRIAN BRUCHEY

EDITORIAL ERICA SMITH AMY SUMERLIN JAMES COULTER

MARY JOYE ELIZABETH MORRISEY

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS

MIKE POTTHAST

SALES TRACEY GREENE - VP of Advertising BOB CURTIS - Senior Executive Media Director MELANIE BROWN - Advertising Representative WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR NEW SALES REPS. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE SEND INFO TO TRACEY@TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

Tell Us What You Think

SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO: Today & Tonight Magazine, PO BOX 2612, Winter Haven, FL 33883 Email: chris@todayandtonight.com. Letters must be signed, please include your town and phone number.

Merry Christmas Polk County! Remember to Shop Local! 6 DECEMBER 2017

PUBLISHED BY: Today & Tonight, Inc. PO Box 2612 Winter Haven, FL 33883 Phone: 863.401.8001 email: chris@todayandtonight.com Reproduction in whole or in part of this magazine is prohibited without written permission from Today & Tonight, Inc. Copyright, 2017 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.

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Now thru Jan. 7, 10am - 5pm

Merry & Bright â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Musical Celebration Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate

www.boktowergardens.org/christmas 863 676 1408

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, FL

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DECEMBER 2017

(863) 294-SHOW (7469) ext. 1 TheatreWinterHaven.com Located in the Chain O’ Lakes Complex 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, West Entrance Winter Haven, FL 33880

ON STAGE NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 17, 2017

Karol, a disillusioned social worker, is trudging home one cold December night when she encounters an old man sitting on a park bench. Mistaking him for homeless, Karol offers the stranger some food - a seemingly innocent gesture, until he turns up in her apartment claiming to be Santa Claus. Thanks to a malfunctioning security system, Karol finds herself trapped with “Mr. Claus” and forced to confront her feelings about Christmas once and for all in this touching musical battle between cynicism and belief.

Tickets: $28 Adults/$25 Students

Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Shows start at 2:30 & 7:30PM Join us for another sensational Tribute Tuesday performance! Don’t miss our CHRISTMAS SOCK HOP with Buddy Holly & Friends! Invite your friends and we will see you at the show!!

Tickets: $30 - Advanced Sale $32 - Day of Show Call and ask about our FLEX pass options for our TRIBUTE TUESDAY SERIES and our MAINSTAGE PRODUCTIONS! (863) 294-SHOW (7469) EXT. 1 8 DECEMBER 2017

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BRIAN’S BRAIN

By Brian Bruchey

ANNIE

Annie is a black and white Australian Cattle Dog (Heeler) mix. She is approximately 1 year old. Annie gets along well with other dogs. She needs someone that is home, active and that is willing to help train her with her, being a cattle dog mix she is very active and needs daily exercise. If you are looking for a jogging partner she would be perfect for you!

ALLI

Alli is a brown female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 2 years old. She is some times shy at first but once she gets to know you, she is laid back, sweet, playful, and likes to be on your lap. Alli will get along with other cats however, because she is a lap pet and doesn't like to share laps, she would prefer to be your one and only.

EVIE

Evie is a brown female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 2 years old. Evie showed up as a pregnant stray a few months ago. She was taken in by a family so she could raise her babies. She is litter box trained likes a little bit of wet food mixed with her dry. Evie is very loving and enjoys being loved on she can also be very frisky too!

PETEY

Petey is a white and brown male American Bulldog mix. He is approximately 2 years old. He has been neutered. Petey's owners say he is hyper, goofy, playful, and loyal. He is used eating to dry food. Petey loves to play in water, being the center of attention and going on walks. His favorite treats are carrots and green beans. He knows sit, lay down, and off. Petey also likes to chew on his nylabone toys.

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. Vargas received her DVM from Tuskegee University in 1994. In 1996, she established her AAHA accredited Orchid Springs Animal Hospital in Winter Haven, FL. In 2009, she began her studies at Chi Institute, eventually garnering certifications in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Food therapy and Tui Na. She is also a fellow of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupunture. Dr. Vargas is pursuing her Master’s Degree in TCVM at Chi Institute, where she works as a Teacher Assistant and as a Lecturer for the Chi Latin America. She has also worked as a consultant for Disney Animal Kingdom. Dr. Vargas is also a Certified Veterinary Journalist and a prolific author of both scientific and motivational articles. Dr. Vargas has lectured at the World TCVM Congress (2015, 2016, 2017), AAVA Conference (2017), AVMA (2011), and the CbVMA (2017). She is a guest blogger for www.allthingshealing.com and a writer for Woman to Woman magazine and the Lakeland Ledger newspaper. Last year she contributed a chapter for Jack Canfield’s Amazon Best seller book “The Soul of Success”. She served as an AVMA Spokesperson for Hispanic market and has recorded many PSA’s and radio

interviews promoting responsible pet ownership. Her love for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine manifested in her book: Alt-Vet: The Revolutionary Pet Care and Longevity Solution. Her passion for helping animals and her voluntarism has awarded her state and national recognition including the Purina National Pet Care Award, Bay News 9 Medical Hero Award, and The FVMA Gold Award. She was honored by the American Veterinary Foundation as “America’s Favorite Veterinarian” in 2015. She lives in sunny Winter Haven, Florida, with her husband, two daughters and a menagerie of pets. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Dr. Vargas loves the community of Winter Haven and she is involved in a number of local organizations, including: Ridge Veterinary Medical Society where she was the 2008-2009 president Junior League of Greater Winter Haven Board Humane Society of Polk County Board Women’s Resource Center and Girls, Inc.

Dr. Vargas

Technical Difficulties When I was a wee-lad, growing up between the cornfields and cows of Ohio, if I wanted to watch TV, there were very few channels to choose from. There were just three networks. Well, four, if you include PBS, but what kid ever watched PBS (outside of Mister Rogers and Sesame Street)? Saturday mornings were pure bliss for kids in the 70’s and 80’s…hours of cartoons on all three networks. Come to think of it, those were probably great days for parents too, since the kids were occupied, and oblivious to other things going on in the home. Perhaps, many new kids were conceived during those shows. “Hey honey, the kids just started watching Scooby Doo…that gives us thirty minutes to go into the bedroom and get Scrappy!” Of course, with commercials, there would always be a chance the parents would be interrupted by hungry children wanting a bowl of Frankenberry cereal, leading Dad to say, “Arrrgh! I’d have gotten away with it, if not for those meddling kids!” TV news coverage was different too back in those days. CBS News with Walter Cronkite, ABC News with…some guy, and NBC News with…some other guy. You had to wait until 6pm to get your TV news. Nowadays, you get it whenever you want it…CNN, FOX, MSNBC, CBS, ABC, NBC, PBS, and Comedy Central (Yes, Comedy Central…where a lot of people admit getting their news from. These people drive, vote, and operate heavy machinery). Not only has the programming changed, but the way we watch it is vastly different. The TV use to be this big boxy piece of furniture in the living room. Between the 1940’s to the 80’s, the TV sat on the floor. Then they became compact enough to sit on a big entertainment center. And now, TV’s are flat enough to be hung on a wall. If only I could go back in time and see my grandfather’s face when I tell him that in 2017, you’re able to watch a football game in the men’s room at a sports bar while you

pee. That’s pure progress right there. When I was a kid, and our TV was having problems, we’d take it to a tv repairman. Today, you just buy a new one, and set the broken one at the end of your driveway until the creepy, smelly guy in the beat-up 1993 Chevy S-10 comes buy and takes it. And gone are the days where the tv station’s broadcast day ends at 1am with the Star Spangled Banner before going to static. Tonight, at 1am, your local channel will stay on…airing multiple half-hour infomercials, selling you stuff like the Shark vacuum cleaner, something from Ron Popeil, or the hair-removal product called Nads. I really don’t know if they still sell Nads, but I just love mentioning a product called Nads. I don’t watch much TV any more. Maybe it’s because I’m too busy. Maybe because I have outgrown it. Maybe because it’s all crap. I’m thinking that last one might be it. MTV ruined music. ESPN ruined sports. CNN ruined news. The Weather Channel…okay, the Weather Channel actually made weather cool. While I still occasionally waste the day away watching nothing but Law & Order marathons, I basically hate TV. Not much worth watching. They need more shows like Charlie’s Angels, Three’s Company, Baywatch, and Benny Hill. Put the “boob” back in “boob tube”, and I’ll surely watch more. Brian “Sounding Like An Old Fart” Bruchey QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS bruchey@gmail.com DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER CONCERT CALENDAR PRESENTED BY JESSIE’S LOUNGE MAN THE HUNTER

FRIDAY, DEC 1

TUESDAY, DEC 5

BEARS AND LIONS/

POLKWEED MUZIQUE

(Big Dog’s Patio, PL CTY)

DAVID OLIVER WILLIS/

IMPERIAL SYMPHONY

(Boot Hill Saloon, DAY

LW)

(RP Funding Center, LKD)

98°

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL)

(Apple Lounge, WH)

THE HUMMINGBIRDS/ (Orange Blossom Revue, LUBECK SOUTHERN LEGACY

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

WONDERLAND

ORCHESTRA

BCH)

FOY

(The Mahaffey, ST PTE)

ED WRIGHT

SATURDAY, DEC 9

(Ybor Lounge, LKD)

WONDERLAND

(LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

SATURDAY, DEC 2 SUNSET & SYMPHONY wsg ACOUSTIC DOSE

(Bok Tower Gardens, LW) B. HAVEN

(Carlton Music Ann. Party,

WEDNESDAY, DEC 6 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

(Fresco’s, LKD)

AND JUDY

SLAVE TO A NAME

COMIN’ HOME

BOBBY JAMES

LKD)

JOSH BLEVINS

THURSDAY, DEC 7

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

PABLITOSWAY

BEARS AND LIONS/

SMALL TOWN GIRLS/

REMEDY TREE/BEEMO/ SAVANTS OF SOUL/ HUBO

BENTLEY/KEVIN MAINES AND THE VOLTS/ THE LEE BOYS

(Orange Blossom Revue, LW)

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) BOBBY JAMES

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL) GREG REDDING

SIMPLY COUNTRY

(Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

DARTE

(The Pink Piano, LKD) DEAD & COMPANY

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

FITZ & THE TANTRUMS

(Amway Center, ORL)

(Hard Rock Live, ORL)

SUNDAY, DEC 3 LUBECK (Tanners Lakeside, WH) BLUE ROOSTER

(Old Man Frank’s, WH) ACOUSTIC DOSE

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) SPIT FIRE

(New Grove Lounge, DUN) T MIKE & DUKE

(Grove Roots Brewing Co, WH)

REGIS LIMA/ JACKYL/HOSS/ MURDER THE CROW (Masons Live, LKD) OAKLEE BAND (Duke’s Brewhouse, P CTY)

(Fresco’s, LKD)

THOMAS & HANNAH WYNN

JOSH BLEVINS

FRIDAY, DEC 8 PRAISE IN THE PARK

(Central Park, WH) ALMOST THERE (New Grove Lounge, DUN) RUMOR HAZIT (Apple Lounge, WH) MAD DOG QUARTET (Fresco’s, LKD) CHRISTIAN RYAN MUSIC

SUNDAY, DEC 10 ACOUSTIC DOSE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) ALMOST THERE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) DAVE MCKENNEY (Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) DAN SIGNOR STEPHEN ALLEN GRIFFITHS (HAIRBALL) (Tempo 1930, WH)

(Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

LUBECK

(Apple Lounge, WH) ED WRIGHT

(Ybor Lounge, LKD)

Wednesday, Dec 13

BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH) COMIN’ HOME

(New Grove Lounge, DUN) ROSARIO FLORES/ GLORIA A TI

(Hard Rock Live, ORL)

MONDAY, DEC 11 98° (Van Wezel Center, SAR)

TUESDAY, DEC 12

(Wine Stable, BTW)

(RP Funding Center, LKD)

ORCHESTRA: HOLIDAYS

MUNN PARK SAINTS (Patio850, WH) STONEGREY

AGGIE ROAD

(Apple Lounge, WH) RICH MISTRETTA (Fresco’s, LKD)

STUMBLE FOX (Duke’s Brewhouse, LKD) POLKWEED MUZIQUE (Public Library, WH) FIFTH GEAR

(Keel and Curley Winery, PC)

KATY PERRY wsg PURITY RING

THURSDAY, DEC 14 PABLITOSWAY

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) DAN SIGNOR

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL) SIMPLY COUNTRY

TEN TENORS (RP Funding Center, LKD) MOST WANTED

SG WOOD

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

OZUNA & WISIN

CRISTI MASSEY

ADL)

SPIT FIRE

(Fresco’s, LKD)

JOHN CAMPBELL wsg/

JOSH PHILLIPS/

FAREN RACHELS

(Hard Rock Live, ORL)

FRIDAY, DEC 15 KAT & THE DAWGS

(Tanners Lakeside, WH) (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) ALMOST THERE

(Amalie Arena, TMP)

SUNDAY, DEC 17 RED HOT ROOSTERS (Tanners Lakeside, WH) JOSH BLEVINS

(Old Man Frank’s, WH) BOBBY JAMES

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, WH) WONDERLAND

(Caribbean Bay, WH) KATY PERRY wsg PURITY RING

(Amway Center, ORL) TRANS-SIBERIAN

ORCHESTRA 3p & 7:30p

SATURDAY, DEC 16

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

LUKE COMBS wsg

DON’T WE…

(Amalie Arena, TMP)

(Lundyville Music Hall,

(Amway Center, ORL)

ALL TIME LOW, WHY

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

(Amalie Arena, TMP)

OAKLEE BAND

(Lakeland Loft, LKD)

10 DECEMBER 2017

CAL LANE

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

IMPERIAL SYMPHONY

OAKLEE BAND

GLENN JOHNSON &

(Fresco’s, LKD) RUSTY (Patio850, LKD) SOUTHERN LEGACY (Fire Restaurant, WH) POLKWEED MUZIQUE (Tempo 1930, WH) TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA 3p & 8p

TUESDAY, DEC 19 MUSIC TRIBUTE:

BUDDY HOLLY & CO (Theatre Winter Haven, WH)

FOY (Apple Lounge, WH) ED WRIGHT

(Ybor Lounge, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 20 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

PHIL SCHNIEDER AND

THE ACOUSTIC STAGE (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

(Amway Center, ORL) DILLON FRANCIS wsg

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL)

DUA LIPA/CHEAT

THE LARIATS

(Hard Rock Live, ORL)

ADL)

NICK JONAS, CHARILE

(Central Park, WH)

CABELLO, LIAM PAYNE,

GEORGE MORRIS &

CODES/AGGRO SANTOS

(Lundyville Music Hall,

JINGLE BALL w/ZEDD,

DULCIMER NIGHT

PUTH, CAMILA

THURSDAY, DEC 21 PABLITOSWAY (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) ACOUSTIC DOSE

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL) SIMPLY COUNTRY

(Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

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JJ GREY EDDIE WRIGHT (Fresco’s, LKD)

FRIDAY, DEC 22 GIDDY UP GO/JOEY FOLEY & CHRIS POINDEXTER

(LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

SOUTHERNDIPITY

(Grove Roots Brewing Co, WH)

CHRISTIAN RYAN MUSIC (Lakeland Loft, LKD)

MONDAY, DEC 25 MERRY CHRISTMAS!

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

TUESDAY, DEC 26

BRIAN CHODERCOFF

TONI BROWN TRIO (Lundyville Music Hall, ADL) RUMOR HAZIT

(New Grove Lounge, DUN) DAN SIGNOR DUO

(Apple Lounge, WH)

MUNN PARK SAINTS (Fresco’s, LKD)

OAKLEE BAND (Ybor Lounge, LKD)

REVEREND HORTON HEAT wsg JUNIOR

BROWN/THE BLASTERS (Hard Rock Live, ORL)

LUBECK

(Apple Lounge, WH) ED WRIGHT

(Ybor Lounge, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 27 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH) CURT BEASLEY & TY JOHNSON

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL) COMIN’ HOME

ELTON JOHN TRIBUTE

SATURDAY, DEC 23 (Old Man Frank’s, WH) WONDERLAND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) BRETT FOSTER (Fresco’s, LKD) DEAN JOHANESEN

THURSDAY, DEC 28

(Patio850, LKD) LOTP BAND (Masons Live, LKD)

(New Grove Lounge, DUN) FREDDY AND THE (Apple Lounge, WH) RUSTY (Fresco’s, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 3 BIG ASS JAM w/JIM AND JUDY

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, JAN 4 PABLITOSWAY (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

TAYLOR RAYNOR (Lakeland Brass Tap, LKD) COREY SMITH (Hard Rock Live, ORL)

SATURDAY, DEC 30 ALMOST HOME (New Grove Lounge, DUN) PHILIP BOOTH (Fresco’s, LKD) LOTP BAND (Mason’s Live, LKD) BADFISH TRIBUTE TO SUBLIME (Hard Rock Live, ORL)

SUNDAY, DEC 31 BLUE ROOSTER (Old Man Frank’s, WH) AGGIE ROAD

FRIDAY, JAN 5 JOSH BLEVINS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FAT FRANK & THE

PLANK SPANKERS (Music in Central Park, WH) 22N

(Ybor Lounge, LKD)

BON JONI TRIBUTE (Hard Rock Live, ORL)

SATURDAY, JAN 6 PICKUP ARTISTS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Patio850, LKD)

PETER CETERA (RP Funding Center, LKD)

PABLITOSWAY

(Idle Zone Bar & Grill, ADL)

SIMPLY COUNTRY

(New Grove Lounge, DUN)

SUNDAY, JAN 7

MICHAEL JACKSON

(The Crooked Bass, BAB PK)

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

RUMOR HAZIT

(Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

OAKLEE BAND

TRIBUTE

NYE PARTY w/SWITCH,

(Hard Rock Live, ORL)

SEBA & THAT GUY

(Hard Rock Live, ORL)

(Brew Hub, LKD) ANDY SHREEVE

SOUTHBOUND

(New Grove Lounge, DUN) (Hard Rock Live, ORL)

PICKUP ARTISTS

(Music in Central Park, WH)

FOOS FOOS

THOMAS WYNN &

JERRY MINCEY &

SIMPLICITY

FRIDAY, DEC 29 RAMBLIN ROSE W/

TUESDAY, JAN 2

(Lundyville Music Hall, ADL)

(Ybor Lounge, LKD)

RENEE RIDDLE

ED WRIGHT

ALMOST THERE

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 2017

SNAPSHOTZ Call your favorite bar For more information!

AUBURNDALE Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 102 W. Polk Street (863) 968-0010 Full Liquor Sports Bar TVs for the Games Bottoms Up Sports Bar 419 E. Bridgers Ave (863) 845-2913 Karaoke, Pool Tables Silver Strike Bowling Beer & Wine Find Us On Facebook Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd. (863) 967-2739 Wed, Trivia 6p Thu, Hospitality Night/$3 wells Thu & Sat, Dart Tourn. 8p Sat & Sun, Beer Bckt Specials Football Game Specials! NYE Party w/Champ. Toast Idle Zone (Downtown) 117 E Lake Ave (863) 875-7932 Mon, Trivia 7p Sat, Karaoke 8p Live Music 7p Sports Packages/TVs Extended Menu: Steaks, Oysters, Tuna, Full Bar! NYE Party w/Aggie Road

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

BARTOW Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 East Van Fleet Drive (863) 534-3111 Full Liquor Sports Bar Fun Bar 3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400 Karaoke Pool Table & Darts Mulligan’s Bartow Golf Club 150 N. Idlewood (863) 533-1668 Karaoke, Thu 7-10p

12 DECEMBER 2017

Presented By Brew Hounds Sports Lounge The Wine Stable 150 S. Broadway (863) 533-9463 Full Bar Live Music

DAVENPORT Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350 Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps Lucky’s Corner Pocket 43356 Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Full Liquor Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables Outdoor Beer Garden Fri & Sun Karaoke w/Lon Dec 29, Tacky Tux Prty 9p Dec 30th NYE Party The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880 TVs, Pool Table Darts, Jukebox Wed & Sat, Karaoke 9p The Wheelhouse @19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560 Tue & Fri, Karaoke 9p Thu, Trivia 8-10p

DUNDEE The New Grove Lounge (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537 Sun, Specials/Entertain. Tue, Industry Night Wed, Acoustics Live 8p Thu, Country Night Fri & Sat Live Music

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

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

HAINES CITY All Star Grill 94 Maxcy Plaza Circle (863) 422-3455

Amos Tavern 200 US Highway 17 92 N (863) 422-1459 Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Frank E’s Lakeside 1090 Shady Cove Rd E (863) 574-9830 Fri-Sun Live Music Great Sunsets Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Karaoke, Darts, Billiards Live Bands Happy Hour 12-7p Shady Cove Bar & Grill 7140 State Road 544 E. (863) 421-6800 Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 4-7p Open Daily 12 p Daily AUCE Food Specials Daily Drink Specials Live Music LAKE ALFRED LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F Wed, Karaoke w/Alice 2nd Thu Open Jam 3rd Fri, Bike Bash 4th Thurs, Jeep Night Dec 12, Christmas Party Dec 24, Bartender Party NYE Party w/Alice

LAKELAND Beef ‘O’ Brady’s North 1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs Beef ‘O’ Brady’s South 4810 S FL Ave (863) 646-7757 Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs The Boondocks 8515 Hwy 98 North (863) 858-3355 Wed, Pool Tourny Fri & Sat, Live Band 9p

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

On behalf of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, we would like to express our gratitude to the 2017 Gala sponsors. Special thanks goes to Dinner Sponsor – Sun Central Media Group, Auction Sponsor – Mahalak Auto Group, and Bar Sponsors – A Friend of the Foundation 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.

Lance Anastasio, Chairman Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees

Lynn Oakley Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Trustee | Gala Planning Committee Chair

Ben Hill Griffin, Inc. The Cassidy Family Comcar Don and Christine Ingram Lynn and Tommy Oakley Straughn & Turner, P.A. TeamHealth Tucker Paving, Inc.

A & E Auto Body, Inc. – Michael and Vicki Arrington Adamson + CO., P.A. Cerner Henkelman Construction, Inc. Intercoastal Payroll Solutions – John & Beth Dial Radiology & Imaging Specialists Tampa Electric

97 Country WPCV and Max 98.3 Advanced Care Hospitalists Allen & Company of Florida, Inc. BayCare Health System Central Florida Health News Citizens Bank & Trust Doster Construction Company, Inc. Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. Fidelity Investments Mixon Family Foundation The Scheck / Lewis Group at Morgan Stanley Patterson Jacobs Publishing, LLC Polk State College Publix Super Markets Charities RICOH USA, Inc.

Adams Hall Schieffelin Smith, P.A. Sarah Jane and John Alexander Lance and Sherry Anastasio Howard and Cheryl Beckert Dr. Inder and Angela Bhutiani Bob and Carol Carter Dr. and Mrs. Robert Cassell CenterState Bank Central Florida Development Council, Inc. Gresham, Smith and Partners John H. Gray Alan and Beverly Gustafson MEDNAX Services, Inc. Angie and Steve Nierman OB Hospitalists Group Dr. Jamie and Stephanie Odom RSM US LLP Six / Ten, LLC Dr. Peter and Lenore Verrill Victor Smith Law Group, P.A. Wawa, Inc.

ABC Fine Wine and Spirits A Chair Affair Rentals Arabellas Ristorante Dunkin’ Donuts® East Coast Entertainment The Gardenia Garden Club Holiday Inn Winter Haven Hughes Corporate Printing Huston Cadillac Buick Chevrolet GMC International Diamond Center Kirby Rentals, LLC Jessie’s Girls Obsessive Geek – Clyde Bielss Party Guys, Inc. Mr. David Schall

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.

DECEMBER 2017

14 DECEMBER 2017

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SNAPSHOTZ

Champino’s Rest & Pizzeria, Sandpiper Plaza 6617 N. Socrum Loop Rd (863) 937-8866 Happy Hr 3-7p Full Liquor Bar Direct TV Sun, Brunch Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Happy Hr 3-7p Daily Specials Mon .50 Tacos 5-10p Wed .35 Boneless Wings 5-10p Cob & Pen 1221 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8126 Craft Beer & Wine Fine Bar Food Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E. Edgewood Dr Ste G (863) 686-6441 Even Par Sports Bar Oak Plaza North 5100 US Hwy 98 N, Ste 13 (863) 816-7995 Happy Hr 4-6p Daily NFL Sunday Ticket/MLB Package $12 Buckets Dart Tournaments Fresco’s Bistro & Wine Bar 132 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7 Monthly Beer/Wine Pairings Great Bistro Fare/Late Menu Live Music Gator’s Dockside Highland City 5135 S.R. 98 (863) 619-7627 Food, Full Bar Open late night Hookah Palace 122 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 House DJ Mon-Thu, Nightly Specials Fri/Sat, Belly Dancers

Isle of Capri 541 S Combee Rd (863) 665-6246 Food, Beer/Wine Hpy Hr 3-6p; $1.50 Drft Wed, Ladies Night 7p Wed-Sun, 8-Ball/9-Ball 6p Thu-Sun, Karaoke 9p

EMAIL US YOUR

SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE NEXT ISSUE

Johnny G’s 5153 US Hwy 98N (863) 858-3366 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri 4-6p Tue, Ladies Night $1 Drinks Wed, 5¢ Drafts/$1 Wells Sun, Free Pool 6-cl 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 Lakeland Loft 108 South Tennessee Ave (863) 210-5327 Jazz & Cigar Lounge Full Bar Business Casual Sun –Thu Dress to Impress Fri & Sat LakelandLoft.com

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri The Pink Piano 1015 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S. Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor T A Slammers 1011 S. Florida Ave (863) 682-4178 Full Liquor Nightly Specials T-Bows 33 Lounge & Package 4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd (863) 683-1201 Happy Hr Daily 4-6p; $2.75 Wells, $2.25 20oz Drafts Wed-Sat, Karaoke @ 9p

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

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

Martini’s Lounge 3239 S. Florida Ave (863) 644-8993 Fri & Sat, DJ Pool Tables, Darts, Big Screens

Winner’s Circle 4215 South Florida Ave. (863) 644-9464 Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p

Masons Live 5501 S. Florida Ave (863) 333-0096 Crafted Bar Food Tue, Trivia 7:30p Wed, Karaoke Mon, Thu, Fri & Sat, DJ Fri & Sat, Live Bands

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

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

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

— Continued Page 16

DECEMBER 2017

SNAPSHOTZ All Star Grill 2019 Hwy. 60 E (863) 679-9689 Sports Bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak 3100 Canal Rd (863) 439-2031 Seafood, Full Liquor Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p Thu, Fri & Sat, Live Music 6-10p 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 Y’all Come Back Saloon 3230 State Rd 60 E (863) 676-5759 Taco Tues, $1 Live Music/Pool

RIVER RANCH Westgate River Ranch Saloon 3200 River Ranch Blvd. Restaurant/Saloon General/Western Store (863) 692-1321 ext 40013 Fri, DJ 6p-12a Sat, Live Band 6p-1a

16 DECEMBER 2017

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

Idle Zone (At Lake May) 615 7th Street SW (863) 875-7949 Fri, Karaoke 8p Live Music Sports Packages/TVs Great Food; Lunch & Dinner Outside Lakefront Seating Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW (863) 298-6755 Smoke-Free Outdoor Patio Thu, Live Music Dec 5, Santa Paws Jr. 5:30p; Fundraiser/Humane Society

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

Jessie’s Lounge 118 3rd Street SW (863) 298-9815 Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p Mon, Free Pool Wed, Big Ass Jam Night Live Music Weekly

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special

Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767 Happy Hr 12-7 Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue & Fri, Poker 7p Sat, Poker 1p Pool Tables, Darts, Golden Tee

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 Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW (863) 291-0700 Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free Food Truck & Live Music Open 4p Wed-Fri/12p SatSun 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

Old Man Frank’s 1005 S. Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179 Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p Daily Specials Sun, Live Music/$12 Bckts Oyster Bar New Party Deck! Christmas open 2p! NYE Party Past Time Lounge 1605 1st St S (863) 293-0027 Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table The Pour House Lounge 1560 Havendale Blvd NW (863) 299-5515 Sat, Live Bands Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524 Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily Beer Specials/Sports Packages Lunch Specials Mon-Fri Tanners Lakeside Restaurant 1006 S Lake Howard Drive (863) 662-5948 Hrs: Wed-Fri, 4p-cl/SatSun11:30a Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Sat, Prime Rib 2p-cl Dec 9, Boat Parade Party Dec 15, Kat & The Dawgs 8:30p

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DECEMBER 2017

ON THE TOWN

GROVE ROOTS Winter Haven Brewery Becoming Downtown Hub

By Elizabeth Morrisey Ten years ago, Joe Dunham began

brewing beer out of his garage perfecting it with each recipe. He fell

in love with the craft and now he’s

turned his passion into a successful business – Grove Roots Brewing Co. in downtown Winter Haven.

Since opening in 2016, he’s cre-

ated a brand that celebrates Winter

Haven’s citrus industry and heritage. Grove Roots has four flagship

beers that pay homage to the citrus life: 6 am Pickers Breakfast Coffee

Stout, Wakes of Grain Amber Ale, Rind & Shine Citrus Witbier and Slanted Ladders White Pale Ale.

Grove Roots, the only brewery in

Winter Haven, has 15 beers on draft, cider, wine, craft sodas and regu-

lar sodas. Many of the selections change with the seasons from pineapple cider to spice beer. “We want to push the envelope and keep peo-

ple wondering,” says Dunham. “It gets people excited. We’re always 18 DECEMBER 2017

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trying new recipes.”

“It’s kind of like cooking. You

packing house next to the brew-

can make it simple or not so sim-

Dunham recently opened a

ery for events, such as Moonlight Market. The market is once a

month and Grove Roots brings

in local craft vendors – food and

goods. “People are moving back to cottage-style industries, and

we love showcasing them in the market,” he says.

The space is also used for

movie and trivia nights, painting

and planting classes, dinners and even yoga. The packing house can

change flavors,” he says. “You ple.”

He found a 1940s warehouse

in downtown and created a family-friendly atmosphere. Grove Roots has a large outdoor area for

families and pets to play. There is even giant Jenga, giant Connect

Four and Bocce Ball. Events are held every week, including live music, and food trucks are

brought in to serve patrons a wide

be rented for private events. The

range of cuisines. Grab some grub

tion. They plan on selling kegs to

Manolito’s Cuban and Sawadee

company’s next step is distribu-

from Tallulah’s Table by the Sea,

restaurants and starting the canning process. Dunham, a Winter Haven native, says he was blown away by the support of the city. “I knew people would support it, but it’s been amazing,” he says. Dunham moved away and worked for an industrial engineering and construction firm, but decided to take a leap of faith and become an entrepreneur. “I wanted the small-town life again.” And having a homemade product born here and one that would represent Winter Haven’s heritage was important to him. “We want to move away from big box industries,” he says. Dunham’s passion became almost an obsession, he explains.

Thai. Check the event calendar for dates.

You can also book a tour of the

brewery, which uses a 10-barrel

system (310 gallons). Thursday through

Sunday

you’ll

find

bands jamming out, such as Kat

and the Dawgs, Justin Grimes, the Hummingbirds, Polkweed

Muzique, and Rick Graham just to name a few.

“When you walk in, there is

always something new. If you are bored at home, you can walk

in and have a good time. We are continually drawing in crowds,” he says, adding that they have a lot of regulars. “I’m so happy it’s so successful.”

DECEMBER 2017

By Amy Sumerlin The best part of the Holiday

season is its traditions – orna-

ments handed down generation to generation; the Elf Hat worn

each year as presents are given;

Christmas lights, Midnight Mass, parties, caroling. And drinking.

Oh, admit it – some of your best

Christmas memories include a

cocktail in your hand. Or perhaps

the memory was that you needed a drink to boost your fake-smiling

abilities before the crazy aunts,

bad gifts, and unidentifiable desserts drove you insane. Better,

special

ingredients

reserved only for this time of year

make both food and drink special. Start a new tradition by switching

up your everyday cocktails with

new seasonal choices that use the fruits… and even the leftovers… of the season.

… And yes, for you tradition-

alists, there is one egg nog in the list. 20 DECEMBER 2017

The First Day of Christmas

The Third Day of Christmas

Here in Florida, we never know if it’s going to be 90 or 60 degrees this time of year. If it’s hot and that Jimmy Buffet Christmas CD has you hankering for a taste of the tropics, this mojito – with gorgeous pops of red from the pomegranate arils and green from the mint – will do the trick. • juice of 1 lime • 8 leaves mint • 1 tablespoon sugar • 2 tablespoons white rum • 1 tablespoon coconut rum • 1/4 cup canned coconut milk • sparkling water for topping • pomegranate arils for serving

A traditional Moscow Mule is made with ginger beer, vodka and served in a copper mug. This holiday version adds cranberry juice, spiced rum and candied cranberries on top to produce a truly festive vibe. Plan to

White Christmas Mojito

In a large pitcher, muddle the lime juice, sugar and mint leaves until the leaves have broken down. In a blender, combine the white rum, coconut rum, and coconut milk and pulse until smooth. Pour over the mint/lime sugar mixture and stir to combine. Chill until ready to serve.

The Second Day of Christmas Hot Toddy

The hot toddy is a classic combo of elements: heat, spice, sweet and sour. Some people swear that the mixture of hot water, clove and/or cinnamon, honey, and lemon juice keeps germs at bay – and considering the crowds at the mall and the stress of the season, I’d believe ‘em. • 1 ounce dark rum or bourbon • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice • 1 tablespoon pure honey • 1/4 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, optional • 1 teaspoon cloves or cinnamon • 1/4 cup hot water or brewed tea • Lemon slice Put honey, lemon juice and the apple cider vinegar in a warmed mug. Add hot water or hot tea and stir until the honey has dissolved. Add the rum or bourbon, stir, and finish with a lemon slice.

Cranberry Mule

make this one, though, when you have a little more time and you are feeling the Martha Stuart in you dying to come out.

Sugared Cranberries (for garnishing) • 12 oz. . fresh cranberries • 1/2 cup simple syrup • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Cranberry Mule • 2 oz. . unsweetened cranberry juice • 3 oz. . ginger beer • 1 1/2 oz. . spiced rum • 1 oz. . simple syrup • Ice , for serving Make the sugared cranberries

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Place a wire cooling rack on top of the lined

baking sheet, and set aside. Toss the cranber-

ries in the simple syrup, removing them with

a slotted spoon, then place on the wire cooling rack. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until the

berries are sticky. Toss the cranberries in the sugar until coated, and then transfer back to the wire cooling rack.

Coat all the cranberries, then refrigerate for

an additional hour before using. Make the Cranberry Mules

Place a handful of ice in a copper mug.

Combine the cranberry juice, ginger beer, rum and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Shake

until combined, and then pour over ice. Serve with sugared cranberries as garnish.

The Fourth Day of Christmas

Christmas Sangria

Hosting a festive brunch this year? This Christmas Sangria needs to be invited! A buttery chardonnay, sparkling apple cider, granny smith apples, cranberries and rosemary make up this light and refreshing adult cocktail that will become a staple at your holiday gathering. • 2 bottles Chardonnay • 3/4 cup sparkling apple cider • 1/4 cup sugar • 1/4 cup cranberries, halved • 3/4 cup cranberries, whole • 1 Granny Smith apple, chopped • 3 rosemary sprigs Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and stir together with a large wooden spoon to help the sugar dissolve. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Serve chilled or over ice.

The Fifth Day of Christmas

Gin and Cranberry Sauced

Admit it… you still have some Thanksgiving leftovers in your fridge. How about turning the classic holiday poultry accompaniment into a cocktail that will –– heed this warning –– get you sauced. With plenty of gin and a dash of bitters, the cranberry-lime, rosemary-topped drink tastes like a festive Cosmopolitan. • 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce • 2 oz. gin • ½ oz. lime juice • 2 dashes bitters • Sprig of Rosemary Grab some leftover cranberry sauce and-avoiding the whole berries--add 2 tablespoons to a shaker with the gin, lime juice and bitters. Add ice, shake very vigorously at least 30 to 45 seconds and strain through a mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass. Smack a sprig of rosemary between palms to release aroma/ holiday aggression and float delicately atop the cocktail. Toast to well-purposed leftovers.

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The Sixth Day of Christmas Egg Nog

I promised one for the traditionalists, and this recipe is an undisputed modern classic. I may or may not have sipped my way through a few rounds of this very cocktail while stringing popcorn during holidays past… • 12 large eggs • 18 oz. granulated sugar • 12 oz. Tequila • 15 oz. Sherry • 36 oz. whole milk • 24 oz. heavy cream • 3 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg In a blender on low speed, beat eggs until smooth. Slowly add nutmeg, and sugar until incorporated and dissolved. Slowly add sherry, tequila, milk and cream. Refrigerate overnight and serve in small chilled cups. Dust with fresh nutmeg before serving.

The Seventh Day of Christmas Gingerbread Martini

Shake up a festive Gingerbread Martini with Hot Damn!, Vanilla Vodka, Baileys and a Ginger Simple Syrup. Garnish it with crushed ginger snaps and plenty of whipped cream for a decadent Christmas treat. This is how you drink your dessert! • 3 Oz. Vanilla Vodka • 1.5 Oz. Baileys • 2 Tbsp. Hot Damn! Schnapps • 1.5 Oz. Ginger Syrup see recipe below • 1.5 Oz. Milk or Half and Half • Ginger Cookies • Whipped Cream • Honey Ginger Syrup: • 3 Tsp. Fresh Ginger; minced • 1 Tsp. Whole Cloves • 1 C. Sugar • 1 C. Water Dip rim of a martini glass into honey and then, crushed ginger cookies until coated. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with around 1 C. of ice. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds and strain into a prepared martini glass. Top with whipped cream and a ginger cookie. For Ginger Syrup: Add all ingredients to a small saucepan on Medium Heat. Bring to a low boil and continue stirring for around 3 minutes until syrup thickens. Run through a sifter to get out any chunks. Allow to cool completely.

The Eighth Day of Christmas The Christmas Miracle

You’re going to consider it a miracle when all of your Christmas shopping is done, so celebrate by assembling this sweet little drink called the Christmas miracle. And because you’re probably exhausted, rejoice—this is super easy! • 1 ½ oz. Vodka • Splash of Cranberry Juice • Squeeze of lemon • Garnish: Candy Cane Combine all ingredients in a glass and stir. Garnish with the candy cane.

The Ninth Day of Christmas Poinsettia

Holiday company in the house and you have to feed them breakfast? Add a yuletide cocktail to make them leave the table smiling! Think mimosa with cranberry juice instead of OJ. • Champagne • 1/2 ounce Cointreau • 3 ounces cranberry juice Put the Cointreau and cranberry juice in a chilled champagne flute. Stir them and top the rest of the way with champagne. To make the drink a little harder, add an ounce of vodka or gin.

The Tenth Day of Christmas The Misteltoe

You deserve a quiet night with your honey… put some music on and whip up this drink, called the Mistletoe, to sweeten the evening and bring on the kisses. • 1 oz. Cherry Vodka • Splash Sour mix • Tonic water • Garnish: Cherry and rosemary sprig Combine all ingredients and stir.

The Eleventh Day of Christmas Hot Buttered Rum

I have fond memories of one chilly Winter Haven Boat Parade, drinking this with my good friend Susan. Warning: By the second cup, Susan and I were sure we were singing those Holiday carols to perfection. Loudly. • 4 cups pineapple juice • 4 cups water • 2 cans cranberry sauce • 1 cup dark rum • ¾ cups brown sugar • ¼ teaspoon salt • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg • ¾ teaspoon cloves • ½ teaspoon allspice • 10 cinnamon sticks • butter Combine pineapple juice, water, cranberry sauce, rum, brown sugar, cloves, salt, nutmeg, and allspice in a slow cooker, breaking the cranberry sauce apart using a fork. Cook on Low for 3 to 4 hours. Ladle punch into mugs and add 1 cinnamon stick and about 1/2 teaspoon butter to each.

The Twelfth Day of Christmas Jingle Juice

This next drink’s mixture of vodka and orange liqueur make it irresistible… just don't drink so much that it puts you on the naughty list! • 5 cups orange juice. • 1 cup vodka. • 1/3 cup orange liqueur. (Triple Sec works, too!) • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice. • 1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice. • Garnishes: fruit-flavored candy cane sticks, cherries with stems, orange and lemon slices. Combine all ingredients and stir.

Making Holiday Shopping a Little More Merrier

If you need to add an extra spring to your step as you shop till you drop, enjoying a cocktail at one of your favorite local bars can take the edge off your holiday madness.

If you are shopping in downtown Winter

Haven, stop by Tempo 1930 to try their Fig and Barrel holiday concoction, which will remind you of Grandma’s kitchen. Includes Maker’s

Mark, angostura bitters, and fig and clove preserves – and the result is a taste is reminiscent of a “big, warm mincemeat pie”. Or, stop by

Arabella's for their beautiful White Christmas Sangria with fresh cranberries, apples and rosemary garnishes. Delish!

If you are in Lakeland’s Lakeside Village,

check out The Brass Tap, especially if a

Holiday inspired Craft Beer is more your

style. Try Southern Tier’s Cinnamon Bun (an Imperial Ale) or perhaps Accomplice’s Black

Cherry Candy Cane. With 69 beers on tap, you will find one to untangle your tinsel.

THE SWEET SPOT

“That nice little groove in life—and music. It’s right where we all want to end up.”

The life of a late-night radio DJ is just as glamorous and exciting as you would imagine. Sometimes, between endlessly scrolling social media for the latest meme, I occasionally say something moderately funny and even manage to get the weather forecast correct from time to time. Jokes aside, one of the highlights of my year is playing Christmas music! It’s a welcomed change of routine. These are the songs reserved for this special season; however, there are certain Christmas tunes that make the naughty list. Some of these songs are so amiss they are endearing, others are so corny they need to be put out to pasture for good (looking at you “Santa Cow”). “Leroy the Redneck Reindeer” by Joe Diffie. A rural twist of Gene Autry’s holiday classic. Typically, anyone with as magnificent a mustache as Joe Diffie gets a field pass, but “Leroy” is a bit campy. This one is a guilty pleasure that I find myself singing around the house, but I’ll never admit to it publicly. “Bad Little Boy” by Ray Stevens. Yep, nothing screams Yuletide cheer like listening to Ray sing with a fake lisp for three and a half minutes. Let’s be honest here, the kid in this song is so vile he needs boarding school or a good ole fashioned…you get my drift. The antics described in this song read more like a rap sheet than your typical childhood mischief. Theft, vandalism, animal abuse… .”Bad Little Boy” is a case study for adolescent criminal behavior. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” originally by Gayla Peevey. I love kids, I do. I have one of my own, but there is just something absurd about the young narrator’s outlandish request to quarter a two-ton beast in a one-car garage. The entire scenario is a logistical nightmare. I guarantee she never even considered waste removal for a creature that large. “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” by Elmo and Patsy. See a theme here? The cheese factor is strong with this one. The tale of a

matriarch bum rushed by a woodland creature is the perfect song for eight year olds, but proceed with caution: this tune is an infectious earworm. “The Christmas Shoes” (various artists). You know the one. The little girl purchasing shoes for her dying mother, unable to afford her gift, a kind stranger pays it forward at the cash register. Tragic; yet heartwarming. Except it causes you to ugly cry. Sobbing uncontrollably at a red light isn’t a good look when you’re a grown man in a pickup truck. I only listen to this one once a year. “Santa Cow” by Caroling Cattle. Does this one even need an explanation? Just how many times can you “pa rum pum pum pum” anyway? Oh look, another version of “Sleigh Ride”! And how could we forget your aunt who knows ALL the words to “Feliz Navidad”, and by golly, she’s not letting those three semesters of high school Spanish go to waste; she’s been rolling her R’s like a champ since she got back from Cancun! Maybe one of your holiday favorites made the naughty list. If so, no worries, my request line is always open, and after all, I get paid to play it, not like it. May you find the right balance between Buddy the Elf and Ebenezer Scrooge this Christmas, and Peace be with you.

BY GRANT STARR Monday - Friday 7pm to Midnight 97 Country WPCV, 97.5 FM Questions: grant@wpcv.com DECEMBER 2017

POLK COUNTY’S

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

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

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

22 DECEMBER 2017

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. 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

cials all weekend! Not your typical sports bar! Follow us on Facebook! 6645 S. Florida Ave. #14

quality food and excellent service! Easily the

863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com

Sundays.

through Saturday 11am to 7pm and closed Must Try: Famous Fish Sandwich

CHEF T’S GARDEN GRILL

715 E Palmetto St, Lakeland

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

(863) 688-4280

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

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 spe-

best homemade food you’ll try! Hours Monday

MISTER FISH Family owned and operated since 1968 offering the best fish sandwich around! Seafood, chicken and much more using only the best

POSTO 9 A Brazilian gastropub, is a culinary destination inspired by the bright and exciting flavors of Braziland the south where masterfully crafted seasonal foods meet outstanding service. Also, enjoy the Ipanema Rooftop Lounge located on the third floor of Posto9. Relax in the sun or underneath the shaded terrace while enjoying appetizers and specialty cocktails. Have a special event coming up? Our second floor can host up to 130 for private events; business, classes, parties. Must Try: P assion Fruit Salmon, Chicken and Waffles, P9 Shrimp and Grits. 215 East Main Street • (863) 499-0099 www.Posto9gastropub.com FB: @Posto9gastropub — Continued Page 25

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DECEMBER 2017

24 DECEMBER 2017

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RESTAURANT LISTING From page 22

LAKE ALFRED CORNERSTONE GRILL Cornerstone Grill is a small family restaurant created with the local farmers and growers in mind. Our food is made from scratch and each meal is made to order with a goal of being 100% local sustainable. In-house cured and smoked meats, sourcing products from local purveyors, seasonally inspired and globally influenced. Also vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Craft beers and fine wine. Lunch - Dinner - Catering. Monday - Saturday 11 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm. Check out their Facebook for wonderful and unique “specials of the day” that incorporate seasonal products from fruits, vegetables to meats. 175 E. Haines Ave, Lake Alfred (863) 875-8913 • WWW.CORNERSTONEGRILL.ORG

LAKE WALES BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

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

CRAZY FISH

Land mark eatery in Lake Wales. Fresh fish never frozen. Fun and casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner menu with daily specials. Mon. 4pm to 9pm. Tues. - Saturday 11:30am to 9pm. Closed Sun. Must Try: Shrimp or Fresh Grouper 802 Henry St., Lake Wales (863) 676-6361

JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

We take pride in our welcoming environment, friendly service and famous burgers. Come in and check our daily lunch and dinner specials. Weekend specials. Prime rib, frog legs, fried shrimp and catfish. Must Try: Homemade Pies 8675 Hwy 60 East, Lake Wales 863-696-1901, Find us on Facebook

WINTER HAVEN 326 BISTRO PIZZERIA Bistro Pizzeria shares the art of perfectly rendered simplicity. Wood burning oven, pizza by the slice, made to order 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

chic Ave Bar. At Arabellas, our dedicated service and inviting ambiance makes us the premier choice for your lunch or dinner destination. Must Try: Bananas Foster prepared table side. 346 W. Central Ave. Winter Haven 863-293-1797 • www.arabellas.us

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

Must Try: Hot and Fresh Wings 615 7th St., Winter Haven 863-875-7949

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

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

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

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.

DECEMBER 2017

NOVEMBER 2016

DEC 8

, 15, 22 – Season’s Screenings, Movies in the Park. Presented by Haines City Parks & Rec. Dec 8 movie is “Elf”, Rated PG. Dec 15 movie is “The Santa Clause”, Rated PG. Dec 22 movie is “The Polar Express”, Rated G. Located Lk Eva Park Downtown Haines City. Fri, 7-9 pm.

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

early and claim your seat! You won’t want to miss a single float! Located Main Street/ Broadway, Bartow. Fri, 6-9 pm. mainstreetbartowfl.com for more info.

DEC 9

– Annual Christmas Parade. Presented by the Town of Dundee. Sat, 11 am.

Email Listings to: tracey@todayandtonight.com

DEC 9

Info must be received by the 23rd of the Month Prior to Publication. Events will be included as space allows.

DEC 9

Christmas Parades & Tree Lightings

– Tree Lighting and Santa Visit. Presented by the Town of Lake Hamilton. Enjoy music, treats, games and a visit from Santa! Located at Veterans Memorial Park (next to the Women’s Club). Sat, 5:30-6:30 pm. – 10th Annual Night Time Christmas Parade and Winterfest. Hosted by City of Davenport. Parade begins at 6 pm on South Blvd. Winterfest includes: food and craft vendors, visit with Santa Claus, snow, Christmas themed entertainment and carolers. Located at Wilson Park, 5 State Street, Davenport. Sat, 5-9 pm.

DEC 7

DEC 9

DEC 7

– Lights in the Park. Presented by the City of Auburndale. Baynard House Tours at 5 pm, Musical Performance at 6:30 pm, Tree Lighting at 7 pm, Free Pictures with Santa at 7:20 pm. Located Downtown Auburndale. Thurs, 5 pm.

DEC 9

DEC 7

DEC 9

– The 37th Lakeland Christmas Parade. Presented by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland. This year’s theme is “A Night in the North Pole”. Located in Downtown Lakeland in the historic. Thurs, 7 pm.

– Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Presented by Town of Dundee. Located at the Dundee Community Center. Thurs, 6-8 pm.

DEC 8

– Havendale Christmas Parade. The City of Winter Haven in conjunction with the City of Auburndale and Auburndale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to bring you a Magical Christmas Celebration Parade! This annual parade will officially start at 7 pm from Spring Lake Square and work its way up Havendale Blvd. to Wells Fargo in Auburndale. The streets will close at 6 pm, parking will be limited. Fri, 7 pm.

DEC 8

– Bartow’s Magical Illumination Christmas Parade. Get in the spirit with one of Polk County’s best holiday parades as it winds down Broadway Avenue and Main Street. Get there

26 DECEMBER 2017

– Lake Alfred Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting. The Parade route will start at Central Park at the corner of Cummings and Glencruiten and it will head west on Cummings to 17/92 and end at Gardner Park. At the park enjoy the annual tree lighting, visit with Santa and other festivities. Sat, 6:30-9 pm. – Lake Wales Annual Christmas Parade. Presented by Lake Wales “The City of Bells” & Kiwanis Club of Lake Wales. This year’s theme is “A Sporty Christmas”. Located Lake Wailes Park, 499 E Park Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 6-8 pm. – Mulberry’s Christmas Village & Parade. Light up the Night. Come and join us for a night full of Christmas lights, and family fun! At the village enjoy live music, meet and greets with Beauty and the Beast and Santa, bonfire, and pony rides, NEW this year a Christmas Market full of specialty gift vendors. Come and get some unique Christmas gifts! Located at Spence Park, NE 1st St, Mulberry. Sat, Parade is 6-7 pm and Village 7-9pm.

DEC 9

– Christmas Boat Parade. Bring chairs and enjoy food trucks, live Christmas music and friends before the highly anticipated Christmas Boat Parade drives right by. Join Chain Life Winter Haven for an evening celebrating our Lakes, Christmas and Community! Boat Parade is the same course on the chain starting at Marine Supply. Lakeside celebration begins 5 pm on Lake Howard Trail. Sat, 6:30 pm for boat parade.

Arts, Crafts, Festivals & Expos

DEC 1

to Jan 7 - Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate. Celebrating the 23rd annual event located at Bok Tower. This year’s theme is “Merry & Bright”. Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens is a celebration for all ages and one of the best times of year to visit. Events and festivities take place daily November 24 through January 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors will enjoy ever-popular Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate, poinsettia, bromeliad and amaryllis displays, live music on the 205-foot Singing Tower carillon, Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert with the full Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra (Dec. 2), winter walking tours, and a variety of educational programs. Admission for the Gardens and Pinewood Estate Holiday Home Tour (Combo Admission) is $24 adults and $12 child (5-12). Kids under 5 are free. Located at Bok Tower, Lk Wales. BokTowerGardens.org

DEC 9

– Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Jolly old St. Nick, and Mrs. Claus, will take time out of their busy schedule to pay a visit to Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center (CFVIC). in Davenport on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bring your camera to capture a photo with the bearded one during this free, pet-friendly event. The event will include refreshments and holiday crafts for the kids. Bring in an unwrapped toy for this year’s toy drive and receive one entry (for each toy donated) for the chance to win two tickets to LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Located CFVIC, 101 Adventure Ct, Davenport. Sat, 11 am-2 pm.

DEC 9

– Breakfast with Santa Haines City. Hosted by City of Haines City. Admission is included with the price of a meal. Please bring your cameras for pictures with Santa! Located at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Haines City, 902 Polk City Rd, Haines City 33844. Sat, 9 am-12 pm.

DEC 9

– 2017 Jingle Bell Classic Race. Come out and Jingle all the way at the Jingle Bell Classic, through beautiful Winter Haven. There is a race for everyone, even the dogs! Sponsored by the Friends of the Winter Haven Library. Located downtown Winter Haven Public Library. Sat, 7 am for the 10k, 8 am for the 5k, 9 am for the 1 mile dog jog/walk. For more info, www.facebook.com/FOWHLRun/

DEC 1

DEC 9

DEC 8

DEC 9

to 14 - Festival of Wreaths. Annual event hosted by the Polk County History Center. Enjoy wreaths on display until Dec 14. Wreaths sold by online silent auction to raise money for the History Center. Open Tues-Sat, 9 am-4 pm. Located E Main Street, Bartow. https://www.polk-county. net/history-center/silent-auction – 6th Annual Make It Magical; Christmas at the Market Place. Presented by Lake Wales Main Street. Make a memory, make it magical. Shopping with local artisans, gift wrapping, visit with Santa, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, holiday music, food & drink vendors, holiday décor and lots of snow. Located historic Downtown Lake Wales, Stuart Ave. Fri, 5-8 pm.

DEC 8

& 9, 15 & 16 – Florida Flywheelers Christmas in the Village. Journey through the many acres by trailers 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. Toys, canned food and cash donations collected for the community. Located 7000 Avon Park Cut Off Rd, Ft Meade. Fri & Sat, 6-9 pm. floridaflywheelers.org

– Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy breakfast, a photo, craft & letter. Located Auburndale Community Center, 405 Bennett St, Auburndale. Sat, 9-11 am. Cost - $8. Tickets available at Parks & Rec Office. (863) 965-5545 for more info. – 37th Annual Snow Fest. Presented by City of Lakeland. Arts, Crafts & Food Vendors. Entertainment on the Main Stage. Inflatables ($1 per child, per inflatable). Snow Mountains ($1 per child). Proceeds benefit local charities. Located Munn Park Downtown Lakeland. Sat, 10-2 pm.

DEC 9

– Bartow’s Unity Day Festival. Part of the Community Relations Committee’s Bartow Multicultural Initiative, the Unity Day Festival is a Citywide celebration. Community groups perform live music, ethnic foods, games, BBQ vendors and lots of fun. Free to the public. Located at Mosaic Park and the band shell. Sat, 11 am- 3 pm.

DEC 9

– Endeavor: Ugly Sweater Christmas Parade Social. Join Endeavor Winter Haven for their December social! Come to Tanners Lakeside, dressed in your ugliest Christmas sweater to win a prize! There will be a $10 cover which will include 2 drinks. Also, this is the same night as

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the Boat Parade. Come early to get best parking! Located at Tanner’s Lakeside, 1006 Lake Howard Dr SW, Winter Haven. Sat, 6 pm.

DEC 10

– Lakeland Water Ski Club Christmas Show. FREE Water Ski Show! Great Family Fun! Come see our action-packed show featuring our talented water skiers, a human pyramid, and maybe even a surprise special guest! Located Lake Hollingsworth, Lakeland. Sat, 2-4 pm.

DEC 14

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

DEC 14

– Hanukkah Menorah Lighting. Chabad Jewish Center will be hosting a Hanukkah Menorah Lighting in Virginia Miller Park, Winter Haven. Open to the public. Thurs, 5:30 pm.

DEC 14

– Snow Central. Hosted by the City of Winter Haven. Enjoy slides, snow, Santa and more! Located Chain of Lakes Park, Winter Haven. Fri, 6 pm. Cost - $2 Adults, $1 Kids (2 & up)

DEC 15

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

DEC 16

Cultural Center. Thurs, 6 pm. For more info, please call (863) 291-5675.

DEC 26

to JAN 1 - Public Ice Skating. 2-hour sessions range from 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 6 pm, 9 pm. Cost - $10 Adults, $9 Kids (12 & under). $8 if you Bring Your Own Skates. ($1 discount for groups of 10 or more!) Located George Jenkins Arena, RP Funding Center (formerly Lakeland Center). Rpfundingcenter.com

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

– Holly Jolly Jingle Bell Jog 5k. Holly jolly attire encouraged! Located Cleveland Heights Golf Course, Lakeland. Sat, Race begins 7:30 am. (reindeer dash kids’ fun run for ages 9 and under begins at 8:15 am) www.jbjog.com for more info.

DEC 9

DEC 16

DEC 9

- Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show Christmas Edition. Free Water Ski Show from the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Concessions with snacks and drinks available. Bring your blanket or lawn chair for seating. Located Martin Luther King Jr Park, 100 Lk Silver Dr, Winter Haven. Sat, 3:30 pm. www. cypressgardenswaterskiteam.com

DEC 21

– Fossils and Frost, A Holiday Celebration. Open house to celebrate the season with food, drink and fossils! ‘Tis the season for Fossils and Frost! Our halls will be decked and Fossils on display with care. Thurs, 5-8 pm. Located at Mulberry Phosphate Museum, 101 SE 1st St, Mulberry.

DEC 21

– Holiday Extravaganza. Hosted by City of Winter Haven Parks and Rec. Kick off the holidays with this FREE family event. Join us for a night full of games, prizes, and refreshments. Located Winter Haven Recreational and

- Downtown Bartow Antique Fair & Collectibles Market. Held the 2nd Saturday of each month, antique vendors set up along the sidewalks in downtown Bartow. No charge for public; $20 for vendors. Located E Main Street, Bartow. Sat, 9 am-1 pm. & 16 – 2nd & 4th Saturday Markets In Downtown Winter Haven. FREE community events, family and pet friendly. More than 50 local vendors offering: fresh & organic greens, raw local honey, food trucks, kettle corn, antiques, art painting, jewelry, all natural & organic body care products, wooden furniture, balloon artists, facial paintings, local crafts, fair trade, baby dresses, third party networks, non-profit, local businesses, cold treats, jams & jellies, baked goods, cottage products, live music, book signing, and much more! Located downtown Winter Haven, 41 5th ST NW, Winter Haven. Sat, 9-3 pm. (Due to holidays, Dec 16 is the “4th Sat Market” instead of the usual Saturday.)

DEC 9

& 23 - Lake Wales Farmers’ Market. The Lake Wales Farmers’ Market features locally grown produce and more on the 2nd/4th Saturday of each month. Located Park Ave & Stuart Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 9-12 pm.

DEC 16

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

DEC 23

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

DEC 29

- Dixieland Last Fridays. Dixieland businesses have formed the Dixieland Revolution to bring attention and interest to the great things Dixieland businesses have to offer. Most businesses between the Tudor to Dixieland Relics will be open with special events at each place. Check out the Dixieland Revolution Facebook for

more information. Dixieland Village, S. Florida Ave, 5th and Hall at the Waller Design Center, Lakeland. Last Friday night from 6-9 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) 984-1144 or www.lundyville. com for more info.

DEC 1

to 17 – Another Night Before Christmas the Musical. Karol, a disillusioned social worker, is trudging home one cold December night when she encounters an old man sitting on a park bench. Mistaking him for homeless, Karol offers the stranger some food — a seemingly innocent gesture, until he turns up in her apartment claiming to be Santa Claus. Thanks to a malfunctioning security system, Karol finds herself trapped with “Mr. Claus” and forced to confront her feelings about Christmas once and for all in this touching musical battle between cynicism and belief. Located Theatre Winter Haven, Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. ThursSat, 7:30 pm. Sun, 2:30 pm. Cost – Adults $28, Students $25. theatrewinterhaven.com

DEC 1

to 17 – Winter Wonderettes. The evening includes some favorite Holiday songs including, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, Jingle Bell Rock, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, and Winter Wonderland. Located Davenport Community Campus – TWF Theatre, 8 Palmetto St W, Davenport. Fri & Sat, 8 pm and Sun 2 pm. Cost – Adults $24, Students $19.

DEC 5

- Tea & Symphony: ISO Holiday Spectacular. Located Lake Hollingsworth Ballroom, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Tues, 5:45 pm. imperialsymphony.org for more info.

DEC 5

– Winter Haven Community Singers Christmas Concert. Start off your holiday season with a free Christmas concert presented led by Philip King. Located Hope Presbyterian Church, 2110 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven. Tues, 7 pm.

DEC 6

– TWH Academy Holiday Showcase. This 40 to 50-minute show will include: A Charlie Brown Christmas, Several Holiday Skits, Holiday “Sing Along” tunes with ACT IV. Half proceeds donated to support the local Meals on Wheels organization. Tickets available at box office only (not online for this show). Located Theatre Winter Haven, Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. Wed, 10:30 am & 6:30 pm. Cost – $30 (Adv), $32 (Day of). theatrewinterhaven.com

DEC 7

– Magic of Christmas. Justino and Daniela Zoppe will take the Stage in The MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS. Enjoy 90 minutes of mind blowing magic combined with futuristic technology, optical illusions, and beautiful sleight of hand. Justino has been called “The Steve Jobs of Magic”. Get ready to Expect the Unexpected! As seen on NBC, ABC, and celebrated on Disney, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and more. This is a night of magic and excitement you will not want to miss. Don’t let the tickets disappear, buy today. Located at Ritz Theatre Downtown Winter Haven. Thurs, 7 pm. Cost – Adult $34.99, Child $14.99, VIP $69.99. Buy your tickets at JZmagic.com

DEC 8

& 9 - Southeastern University’s Annual Christmas Concert. Yuletide sounds brought to you by the accomplished musical assemblage of students and faculty of Southeastern University. Located Bush Chapel, Southeastern University, 1000 Longfellow Blvd, Lakeland.

— Continued Page 28

DECEMBER 2017

CALENDAR From page 27

Fri & Sat, 7:30 pm. Cost – Adults $5, Students $3. To view a complete list of events or purchase tickets, please visit www.seu.edu/arts/events

DEC 8

to 10 – A Christmas Story the Musical. The Tony nominated musical about the hilarious account of Ralphie’s desperate quest to ensure that the most perfect of gifts ends up under his tree this Christmas. Based on the classic 1983 movie, this musical captures the holiday wonder with such deliciously wicked wit that it is sure to delight children and grownups alike! Rated G. Located Lakeland Community Theatre, 121 S. lake Ave, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 7:30 pm. Sun, 2 pm. Cost – Adults $22, Seniors $20, Students $15 (17 & under). lakelandcommunitytheatre.com

DEC 9

– Joys of the Season: The Christmas Gala. Come join the holiday fun and festivities in this highly-anticipated music tradition for the community! Located Branscomb Auditorium, Florida Southern College, Lakeland. Sat, 2:30 pm & 7:30 pm shows. Cost – Adults $8, Students $4. www.flsouthern.edu/visitors/festival-of-fine-arts.aspx

DEC 9

– Symphony Guild of Winter Haven Holiday Concert. The Symphony Guild of Winter Haven welcomes the Imperial Symphony Orchestra for a celebration of the season. Located at Polk State College Center for Public Safety, 1251 Jim Keene Blvd, Winter Haven. Sat, 2 pm. symphonyguildofwinterhaven. com

DEC 10

– Holiday Youth Concert. Youth from the community come together to perform sounds of the season with classic and traditional songs of the Christmas Holiday Season. Located at Ritz Theatre, Downtown Winter Haven. Sun, 6-8 pm.

DEC 12

– ISO Holiday Spectacular. The Lakeland Genesis Concert Series presents this annual favorite bringing holiday cheer to audiences with symphonic works, Christmas carols and songs of the winter season! Cost - Gold $35, Silver $25, Bronze $15; students free with ID or parent purchased tickets. Located Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. For more info, imperialsymphony.org Tues, 7:30 pm.

DEC 16

& 17 - Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Presented by Florida Dance Theatre. Performed with charm and perfection by the dynamic dancers of FSC’s company-in-residence, this breathtaking production features colorful scenery, dazzling costumes, and entrancing choreography. Located Branscomb Auditorium, Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland. Sat 7:30 pm & Sun 2:30 pm. Adults $18, Students $9. http://www. flsouthern.edu/visitors/festival-of-fine-arts.aspx

DEC 16

- The Ten Tenors, Home for the Holidays. Home for the Holidays is a magical experience for the whole family that will dazzle, delight and captivate audiences. Join Australia’s rock stars of the opera as they amaze and enthrall with their unique selection of traditional and contemporary seasonal favorites. With soaring versions of Joy to the World, Sleigh Ride, White Christmas, Amazing Grace, Winter Wonderland, Feliz Navidad and many more, Home for the Holidays is the perfect way to celebrate the spirit of the season. Located Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center (formerly Lakeland Center), Lakeland. Sat, 7:30 pm. Cost - $65 (Pit), $45, $35 plus parking. Rpfundingcenter.com

DEC 19

– Tribute Tuesday Series: Christmas Sock Hop. Featuring Buddy Holly and friends tribute! Located Theatre Winter Haven, Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. Tues, 2:30 & 7:30 pm. Cost – $30 (Adv), $32 (Day of). theatrewinterhaven.com

DEC 20

– A Charlie Brown Christmas Live! On Stage. This Emmy and Peabody award-winning story by Charles M. Schulz has been a longstanding tradition, warming the hearts of millions of fans since

28 DECEMBER 2017

it first aired on television over 50 years ago. Now, the live on-stage adaptation of the classic animated television special brings all your favorite characters to life - all set to the unforgettable sounds of the Vince Guaraldi musical score. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang in their journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. Located Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center (formerly Lakeland Center), Lakeland. Wed, 7 pm. Cost - $37 (Pit), $27 plus parking. Rpfundingcenter.com

DEC 22

– Elvis “One Night with You”. Presented by Ritz Theatre. Performed by Ted Torres. Enjoy the greatest hits and the finale will bring us into the sounds of the season as only Elvis would have shared with his fans. Located Ritz Theatre Downtown Winter Haven. Fri, 8 pm. Cost - $20.

DEC 28

– Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Celebrate this Christmas with the experience taking North America by storm! Marking the 25th N American Anniversary Tour in 2017, Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker features overthe-top production values and world class Russian artists. Larger than life puppets and nesting dolls, and gloriously hand-crafted costumes bring the Christmas spirit to life. Gather the family and see why the press raves “Knock Out!” – New York Times, “Christmas Cheer!” – LA Times. Get the best seats today and make memories of a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Located Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center (formerly Lakeland Center), Lakeland. Thurs, 7 pm (doors open 6 pm). Cost - $175 Platinum, $102 Gold, $68, $48, $37.50, $28 plus parking. Rpfundingcenter.com

JAN 4

– A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder. The uproarious story of Monty Navarro, a distant heir to a family fortune who sets out to jump the line of succession by – you guessed it – eliminating the eight pesky relatives (all played by one fearless man) who stand in his way. All the while, Monty has to juggle his mistress (she’s after more than just love), his fiancée (she’s his cousin but who’s keeping track?), and the constant threat of landing behind bars! Of course, it will all be worth it if he can slay his way to his inheritance… and be done in time for tea. Located Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center (formerly Lakeland Center), Lakeland. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Cost - $60, $50, $45 plus parking. Rpfundingcenter.com

JAN 6

– Peter Cetera Live! Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter that has enjoyed a distinctive musical career beginning as the singer, songwriter, and bass player for the legendary rock group, Chicago. An academy award nominated solo artist since 1986, Peter is currently touring with his 7-piece electric band, “The Bad Daddy’s” and still enjoys performing his timeless hits which continue to touch the lives of so many people worldwide. Located Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center (formerly Lakeland Center), Lakeland. Sat, 7:30 pm. Cost - $65, $50 plus parking. Rpfundingcenter.com

Charity Events & Golf Tournaments

DEC 5

– Santa Paws Jr. Fundraiser for the Humane Society of Polk County – Polk’s No Kill Shelter. Holiday wreath auction, raffles, live music by Polkweed Muzique (Christmas classics, blues, jazz), light appetizers and a specialty cocktail. Cash bar available. Located at Jensen’s Corner Bar, 3rd Street, Downtown Winter Haven (smoke-free). Tues, 5:309:30 pm. Cost - $20 at door. Designers: Contact Kristie Renardson for wreath donations and sponsorship opportunities (863) 651-9580.

DEC 12

– Lighthouse Ministries Country Christmas with Susie McEntire. Enjoy an evening of food, music, fun and inspiration. Located First Presbyterian Church, Lk Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland. Tues, 6-8:30 pm; (doors open at 5:30 pm, dinner at 6 pm concert at 7 pm) Cost - $75, Table of 8 for $600. www.lighthousemin.org/events.html

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

Larger Than Life The italicized excerpts are from the celebrated children’s Christmas tale The Littlest Angel written by Charles Tazewell and published in 1946. Once upon a time – oh, many, many years ago….there was, in Paradise a cherub who was known as the Littlest Angel… And, being so small that it seemed to take him just twice as long as anyone else to get to nightly prayers, the Littlest Angel always arrived late, and always knocked everyone’s wings as he darted into his place. Our friend Big Jim was largerthan-life character and rightfully earned his nickname towering more than six feet tall. It is hard to determine whether the name stuck from his height or the astounding timbre of his voice. In fact, most everything about Jim was big including a megawatt smile that lit up a room, a generous spirit and a guffaw laugh that was often funnier than the joke he was telling. Then he asked the Littlest Angel what would make him most happy in Paradise. The Cherub thought for a moment, and whispered in his ear. “There’s a box. I left it under my bed back home. If only I could have that?” The Understanding Angel nodded his head. “You shall have it,” he promised. Whether he was humming a classic rock tune or offering some random trivia tidbit, Big Jim was always entertaining. He was delightfully klutzy, blaming his size 13 feet; however, that was part of his charm. He was one of the first to offer us comfort on the day we lost our beloved dog and I will never forget his kindness. Big Jim had a way of knowing what to say in every occasion even if his comment raised an eyebrow or two. He was friendly to all, a champion of the underdog and a light at the end of the darkest tunnel. And then, in those timeless days that followed, everyone, wondered at the great change in the Littlest Angel, for, among all the cherubs in God’s

Kingdom, he was the most happy… The Angels and Archangels, the Seraphim and Cherubim, the GateKeeper, the Wingmaker, yes, and even the Halosmith put aside their usual tasks to prepare their gifts for the Blessed Infant… “What, oh what, could a small angel give that would please the Holy Infant?” Jim was a welcomed addition to many holiday celebrations and he surprised us with his generosity and holiday spirit. It was with great glee that I filled a “to go” plate with plenty of leftovers as he was always quick to praise the cook. Then on that Day of Days, he proudly brought it from its hiding place behind a cloud…It was only a small rough, unsightly box, but inside were all those wonderful things that even a Child of God would treasure. A man of faith, Jim served his church and its people with a giving heart. He put most of us to shame with his willingness to help. Literally and figuratively, Big Jim was often willing to give the shirt off his back to someone in need. He was kind, full of grace and a unique soul that never quite fit into any category. And the Voice of God spoke, saying , “Of all the gifts of all the angels, I find that this small box pleases Me most…There was a breathless pause, and then the rough unsightly box began to glow… and the lowly gift of the Littlest Angel was what all men would call forever The Shining Star of Bethlehem.” We will miss Big Jim for all of these reasons and more. While Heaven may already have the Littlest Angel, it has now gained possibly the biggest. Rest in Peace, Big Jim. Big Jim Lewis November 2017 QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

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TID BITS TRACEY’S

By Tracey Greene

Recycling Dilemma

For many years, I have been one of the faithful recyclers. Memories of (me) a youngster walking to the store from my grandmother’s turning in glass soda bottles for money which I’m sure that I just turned around and bought candy with… as well as a young adult collecting up aluminum cans taking them to the scrape yards to earn a little cash (per pound). It wasn’t a lot of money, but it was still part of the recycling process. I try to be a considerate recycler, even going as far as to rinse out products prior to putting them into our outside yellow bins - plus it does cut down on the bugs attracted by all the “stuff” in the bins. For me, anything that could be recycled, was recycled. My regular trash container didn’t even need to be put out each week due to me being a responsible citizen. Helping the negative impact on the earth we as a society have on it, I thought. It’s the right thing to do, I thought. Recycling is eco-friendly, turning a product into another product and creating jobs – a win-winwin, I thought. Plus, someone has to make up for the people that just don’t give a damn and think that it’s “someone else’s problem”. It’s all of our problems. At some point, we are going to be overrun by old cars, and everyday junk! Have you ever visited a junk yard? Or the county dump? Piles reaching out to the sky with the smell of rot all around and hundreds of scavenger birds flying about. Yep, that’s what it’s going to be like as a normal living environment if we don’t start changing out impact. Like the show “Hoarders” but a thousand times worse because no one will be able to escape the trash piles. Why this rant, you ask? A couple of months ago the county finally rolled out their new larger (supposedly) recycling containers. I was SO excited. My dad, who lives in Auburndale, received one from their city 2 years ago. I was a little envious because it was a little larger than his trash container. Perfect for a recycler like me! Anyway, this new container came with NEW rules. Now, they are only accepting aluminum and tins cans, newspaper, cardboard boxes, cardboard egg containers and milk jugs…WTF?!? (we’ll call that What The Fart) They DO NOT want any more glass or plastics #1-7 because SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

of the resins in them and the different additives companies are putting into their packaging. If you go onto the county’s website you get a bunch of crap answers to the pissed off community’s questions and concerns. (https://www.polk-county. net/waste-and-recycling/residential-collection-services/residential-waste-and-recycling-faqs ) The City of Lakeland, according to their website, still recycles everything. (http://www.lakelandgov.net/ media/1269/solid-waste-brochure. pdf ) What do they do differently than the county? And, why can’t we make the manufacturers use more eco-friendly packaging, resins and additives? They are the cause, but we the people continue to allow it and buy their products – so we are also part of the problem. Scientists please come up with an eco-friendly additive that helps all of humanity’s crap (literally) dissolve but doesn’t eat holes into the atmosphere or our planet. I know, I sound like an episode of “Scorpion”. Wishful thinking for a happier, healthier and trash-pile free world! Bad Facts: Glass Bottles take a million years to break down, Styrofoam Cups take 500 years to forever and Plastic Bags take 500 years to forever. Glass is one of the cleanest items to recycle BUT it’s more cost effective to use Sand, Soda Ash and Limestone to just make new ones…at what point are we going to stop letting profits drive everything. Sometimes the good of the environment supersedes making money. To me, recycling is a necessity for the future. The quandary, stop using and buying glass products. This is crazy! Plastic packaging has so many chemicals in them. I’ve personally cut down on my plastic bag use by using my own reusable shopping bags etc. Good Fact: Publix Supermarkets offers recycling cans outside their stores for Paper Bags, Plastic Bags and Foam Egg Cartons. One positive step for the future. Thank you, Publix – where shopping really is a pleasure! QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com DECEMBER 2017

MUSIC BAND PROFILE

BACKSTAGE PASS

BY JAMES COULTER

What are some of your musical inspirations?

In short, you get Polkweed Muzique, a local acoustic ensemble whose unique style has been described as “an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, zydeco, and contemporary music.”

Marcus: I draw a lot of inspiration from the other guys in the band. They all bring qualities that I don’t hear in other places.

hat happens when you combine acoustic guitar with bass, accordion, clarinet, and several percussion instruments including the washboard? You get music unlike anything that has ever been played or heard before, at least in Polk County.

The band was started three years ago by Marcus Brixa (guitar and vocals), who had been playing on and off for ten to twenty years with each of the other band members: his father, Trent Rowe (Percussion), Kemp Brinson (bass), Paul Butcher (accordion), and Chuck Furr (clarinet). As someone who has studied and played jazz music, Marcus loves to take contemporary songs and improvise with them while combining other elements like zydeco and blues. The end result is a sound unlike any other. 30 DECEMBER 2017

Kemp: My favorite era of music is 60s rhythm and blues… So I pull some of that vocabulary from our rhythm and blues albums with the way we approach it.

Paul: Miles Davis. Professor Longhair. The New Orleans tradition. I enjoy a lot of Latin American musicians. I like mixing those styles.

Over the past three years, they have shared this unique sound at venues such as Jackie’s Art Cafe, Gram Parsons Derry Down, Grove Roots, and Bok Tower Gardens. Their next gigs will be at Santa Paws Jr. at Jensen’s Corner Bar on Dec. 5th

at 5:30pm (a benefit for the Humane Society of Polk County), Music For The Masses at the Winter Haven Public Library on Dec. 15 at 5pm, and later at Tempo 1930 on Dec. 16 at 7pm. Recently, the band sat down to discuss their music and inspiration. This is what they had to say:

Chuck: The big bands from the past: Glenn Miller, Bernie Shaw, and a long list of other inspirations. I try to incorporate the spirit of showmanship into this group when possible. Trent: I play a variety of drums from around the world and try to fit them into the jazz stuff that we are doing.

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What are your interests outside of music? Kemp: I have a bit of a strange hobby in that I love ringing tower bells in places like Washington National Cathedral. I travel all over the U.S…and [go to] towers up and down the east coast. Marcus: I’m a bit boring because everything that I do is centered around music. That and raising kids. I don’t have a lot of big hobbies outside of guitar. Paul: Besides performing, I teach music. Also fishing. Chuck: I have no time for [anything else] except antique cars and model railroading. Trent: I retired after 50 years as a newspaper man, as a food writer and restaurant reviewer. Now I am with the Friends of the Library and the local kennel club. What have been some of your favorite gigs? Kemp: I love getting together and playing with these guys…I don’t care. Just tell me where we will be and I will bring my axe and have some fun. Marcus: I really enjoyed Bok Tower. Such a beautiful gig. Paul: The Derry Down, because of the history. What do you love most about your performances? Kemp: Improvisation has not been something I have done much of, and I have learned a lot about constructing bass lines on the fly just by sitting down and spending the time grooving with these guys, and that I love the challenge of stretching what I am comfortable with. Marcus: I like to surprise the audience and I feel a response from that surprise. For example, we were playing one song, and in the middle of that song, we threw in the James Bond theme. And half of the room

"I Like to surprise the audience... There is a lot of improvisation… Everyone loves it when it happens." — Marcus Brixa turned around and started cheering when they heard the [song]. We have never done that before, but this band can listen very effectively, and figure out what was going on. And that is part of the jazz tradition, that things really are not pre-planned. There is a lot of improvisation….Everyone loves it when it happens.

If you could be the opening act for any band or musician, who would you like to open for?

Paul: This is the kind of group that loves taking risks…So it is us getting together and not knowing what [our] energy is going to be.

Chuck: I would like to open for Mannheim Steam Roller. Actually, I would like for Mannheim Steamroller to open for us.

Trent: I love reading the expressions of people

Marcus: We struggle with that [question] because we don’t attempt to be like the big names, we just want to play. That is really where we focused our energy and thoughts.

when you realize they finally understand what tune we are playing in such a way it didn’t sound like the tune they thought it was.

Paul: I love the Dirty Dozen brass band. Kemp: I want to be featured on Prairie Home Companion.

What do you love most about the band? Kemp: I really enjoy fusing a jazz tune with a Latin style, and Paul has been big with mixing tunes with a more interesting rhythmic approach, some sort of Brazilian or Latin feel, and that has been cool with me scoring those compositions. Marcus: As I am the guy who started the band, I am just so happy that I have good friends that enjoy working with me and challenging me and each other to think outside the box and do things that are really not done by other groups. Paul: I love being part of an acoustic group that can still find the energy of a rock band. I like when the band finds the pocket and the rhythms come together. They’re not manufactured. They are organic and a lot of fun. Chuck: I love the camaraderie and the high musical standards of these fine gentlemen. For more information find them on Facebook or visit their website at polkweedmuzique.com.

DECEMBER 2017

BRAINEXCERCISE Sudoku Puzzle STRANGE BUT TRUE BY SAMANTHA WEAVER • It was 20th-century French journalist, poet, aristocrat and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupery -- best known for his novella “The Little Prince” -- who made the following sage observation: “A designer knows he has achieved perfection not when there is nothing left to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.” • Eggplants weren’t always the deep purple color we know today; originally, the vegetables were white. The color, paired with the ovoid shape, is how the eggplant got its name. • If you live in Rochester, New York, you’re doubtless used to dealing with the hazards and inconveniences of snow and ice. It’s America’s snowiest city, after all, averaging 94 inches every winter. • Those who study such things say that paternity leave can have significant domestic impacts. Research shows that men who take a few weeks of leave when they have an addition to their family spend more time on domestic chores and taking care of the kids than men who don’t. They cook more, and they’re even 50 percent more likely to do laundry. The most interesting finding, though, is the fact that these changes are long-term; the effect tends to last the rest of a man’s life. * Those who suffer from nescience are unlikely to know what “nescience” means – an absence of knowledge.

TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez

1. LITERATURE: What 20th-century author wrote a short story titled “Gimpel the Fool”? 2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Sometimes called “the second most visited home in America,” what Memphis, Tennessee, estate was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006? 3. GEOGRAPHY: What is the only mountain in North America that exceeds 20,000 feet? 4. FIRSTS: Who became the first woman in the British Parliament in 1919? 5. HISTORY: The International Committee of the Red Cross won what prize in 1944? 6. SCIENCE: In forensic science, what is dermatoglyphics? 7. MOVIES: In one of the movie’s classic songs, how much sugar does Mary Poppins say is necessary to make the medicine go down? 8. MUSIC: What is the classification for an album that sells 10 million copies? 9. EXPLORERS: What European explorer was the first to reach the Mississippi River in 1541? 10. MEDICAL TERMS: What is a more common name for the malady called pityriasis capitis? Answers 1. Isaac Bashevis Singer 2. Graceland 3. Denali (Mount McKinley) 4. Lady Nancy Astor 5. The Nobel Peace Prize 6. The study of fingerprints 7. A spoonful 8. Diamond 9. Hernando de Soto 10. Dandruff

• The first wristwatch was made by an English clockmaker in 1571. Described as “a wristlet in which there was a clocke,” the watch was presented as a gift to Queen Elizabeth I.

ANSWERS

• If you’re like the average human, you have about 615 hairs for every square centimeter of your skin.

32 DECEMBER 2017

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