Today & Tonight Magazine December 2022

Viola Vines

Lake Wales Holiday Shopping Guide

by James Coulter

Christmas is coming soon! Have you done your holi day shopping yet? Rather than buy everything from Amazon, why not take a trip to Downtown Lake Wales or the Eagle Ridge Mall? Buying local is a great way to support your local community. Your money goes straight into the pockets of the people who live there, who then spend that money locally and keep it cir culating in the community.

Main Street Lake Wales will be hosting its annual Make It Magical holiday event on Dec. 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The celebration will allow vis itors to stroll through historic downtown and peruse the shops after hours for holiday deals. And don’t forget about the caroling, hot cocoa and cookies, and the real snow!

Whether you want to do you holiday shopping during the celebration or any time before Christmas, Lake Wales offers plenty of shops and

boutiques with a little some thing for everyone. Check out what it has to offer with this handy-dandy shopping guide:

FOR THE FASHIONISTA: LOCAL BOUTIQUES

Downtown Lake Wales and Eagle Ridge Mall

When it comes to fashion, you can either break the bank

Southern Roots

Buying local is a great way to support your local community.

by buying big-name brands, or you look just as fabulous in something chiq and affordable. Plenty of local boutiques offer women’s clothing and appar el that are light on the wallet yet high on style. Situations in Eagle Ridge Mall showcase many long dresses that turn eyes of potential customers. From Consuela bags at Viola Vines in the Downtown Arcade to pet clothes and self-defense items at Daisy Mae Boutique in the mall, these boutiques offer a little bit of something for every one. The new Kala’s Closet even allows customers to trade in their gently-used clothing items for store credit. Also, check out Franklin and Rose in downtown and On The Avenue in Park Avenue Hair Salon.

FOR CHILDREN: THE TOY BOX

Eagle Ridge Mall

Hey! Remember old toy stores like Toys R’Us and Kaybee Toys? The Toy Box

revives the old concept with its new toy shop at the mall. They stock plenty of toys and games from big brands including Disney, Marvel, and Play-Doh. They even have a closet filled with board games that are great for family game nights. From Play-Doh clay to stuffed Paw Patrol puppies, your little one will love walking into this store and seeing the shelves packed with toys. Remember the good old days and create new mem ories with a little blast from the past.

FOR THE FAITHFUL: KATHRYN’S CHRISTIAN BOOKS

205 E. Park Ave., Lake Wales, Fl 33853

Kathryn’s Christian Books has the widest selection of mer chandise for the most devout church-goers: devotionals, prayer books, study bibles, and children’s story books. It also has plenty of Lake Walesthemed merch for those who

Kala's Closet

Viola Vines

Kala's Closet

love their hometown. From tea towels to spoon sets, they have a great selection of stocking stuffers. While you’re there, have a scoop of their ice cream or a milkshake, with festive fla vors like egg nog, gingerbread, and peppermint. Sure, you can’t gift wrap ice cream, but you can also stuff a stocking with a gift card or certificate for a free scoop or two!

FOR THAT SPECIAL

SOMEONE: MAYERS JEWELERS

201 E Stuart Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853

For 40 years, this locally run, family-owned, and operated jewelry store has specialized in selling “one-of-a-kind” jewelry ranging from rings to bracelets and necklaces. Have old gold and diamonds? Mayer can revitalize them by using them to create custom one-of-a-kind

pieces. And if you’re looking for some quick cash for holiday money, you can always sell your old watches and jewelry to them.

FOR YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER: DOSS FLOWERS & GIFTS

130 E. Stuart Ave., Lake Wales, FL 33853

What’s more romantic than

giving your special someone a bouquet? Or presenting them with a flower arrangement that makes for a great holiday cen terpiece? Whether you want to commemorate your relation ship or spruce up the holiday dinner table, Doss Flowers & Gifts offers truly unique flow er arrangements, as well as stuffed animals, balloons, and silk arrangements that make for excellent stocking stuffers.

Darn Plant Co.

Kathryn's

For Christmas, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s, or special occa sions like weddings and other celebrations, this quaint little flower shop has a little bit of everything. Especially check out their wooden plaques that are American-made by local artists.

FOR CO-WORKERS: DARN PLANT CO.

230 E Park Ave Suite 23, Lake Wales, FL 33853

When you’re stuck in your office cubicle most of the day, a little green on your desk can help spruce up your workday mood. So why not give your office mate or co-worker a little plant to place on their desk? The tropical indoor plants sold at That Darn Plant Co. are great for everyone wanting to put a little green in their life. They even sell seeds so you can grow your plants. And there is plenty of plant-related merch, from shirts and tum blers to wallets and pet toys, to let everyone know that you heart flora.

FOR THE DOWN-TO-EARTH: SOUTHERN ROOTS

252 E. Stuart Ave., Lake Wales, FL, 33853

Many fine folks in Lake Wales and beyond thank God they’re a country boy or girl.

The Toy Box

So proudly show your roots with some items from Southern Roots. From candles and sham poos, to home decor and bath and body products, these items are locally-made with all-nat ural ingredients to help you feel even more down-to-earth than you already are. And, of course, there are plenty of gift baskets, with most items avail able for gift-wrapping.

FOR ANTIQUE COLLECTORS: MODERN DAY TIFFANY

229 E. Stuart Ave. Suite 1, Lake Wales, FL 33853

Some items they just don’t make like they used to. From vintage Tiffany lamps and inlaid furniture to vintage sterling silver jewelry and Asian porcelain, Modern Day Tiffany’s offers a blast from the past with antiques and other collectibles. True to their name, they specialize in Tiffany lamps. Not all that glitters is gold, but everything at Tiffany’s maintains that old-fashioned glam and glit ter. So indulge the nostalgia of your friends or relatives with a unique antique.

FOR GAMERS AND GEEKS: KAIJU COLLECTIBLES

Eagle Ridge Mall

Do you have a gamer friend who knows what “anime”

Oasis Boutique Kaiju

and “manga” means? Who knows the difference between Dungeons and Dragons and Warhammer? Who still has their old Pokémon cards from elementary school? And who like to eat the occasional pocky stick? Then give them a gift from Kaiju Collectibles. From trading card games to tabletop RPGs, if your friend or loved one loves to game, this new shop has a little something for them. Place a D&D starter set under their tree, or a Pokémon booster pack in their stocking. Or, if you feel like splurging this holiday season, purchase an anime figure.

FOR HEALTH NUTS: KAIROS NUTRITION

1 W. Central Ave. Suite 102, Lake Wales, FL 33853

After packing on the pounds with Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas goodies, losing weight is no doubt the num ber one New Year’s resolution for most people. To help your loved one shed the holiday weight, give them the gift of Kairos Nutrition. This local cafe serves drinks, donuts,

and other healthy snacks with Herbalife Nutrition supple ments packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals to help them get in shape and lose (or gain) weight. Of course, you can’t wrap a smoothie, but you can stuff a stocking with a gift card or certificate, or place a Kairos mug or tumbler under the tree.

FOR THOSE WHO PRACTICE SELF-CARE: OASIS SPA BOUTIQUE

245 E. Park Ave., Lake Wales, FL 33853

After a long hard day, we all need some time to unwind. So why not treat your loved one who works the hardest to a day at the spa? Gift certificates and cards for various spa treat ments are available at the Oasis Spa Boutique. For more afford able stocking stuffers, consider a soothing bath bomb, essen tial oils, or skin care products like hand lotion or anti-aging cream. And for extra relaxing benefits, consider items infused with CBD or hemp. Anything to let that special someone relax and feel the stress of the world melt away.

Kathryn's Christian Books

EAGLE RIDGE MALL

by James Coulter

'Tis the season for holiday shopping, and there’s no other ideal place for shop ping than the mall. Unfortunately, as iconic as the shopping mall has become, especially during the holidays, countless malls across the country have struggled due to competition with online shopping.

However, while many have devolved into ghost towns, others have made epic comebacks by evolving into indoor com munity spaces for local businesses and entrepreneurs. Perhaps no better example of this trend exists in Polk County than Eagle Ridge Mall in Lake Wales.

While its main anchor stores JCPenney and Sears have long closed, along with many of its stores and eater ies, Eagle Ridge Mall, like several other malls nationwide, has experienced a revitalization with new tenants moving in and breathing new life into the long empty corridors.

Since coming under new management last June, Eagle Ridge has opened nearly a dozen new stores and even re-opened its bowling alley and entertainment cen ter. These new stores include a toy store, a comic books and collectibles shop, a hair salon, a tattoo parlor, three bou tiques, an art gallery, and an insurance agency.

Mall Manager Charles Caraway owes its turnaround to its low leasing rates, which have allowed new businesses to move in, and repairs to its air-condi tioning unit, which have allowed mall patrons, old and new, to enjoy the mall more comfortably. With new repairs and renovations planned, along with several new businesses expected to move in, he anticipates that the mall will return to its glory days soon.

“It has been very promising,” he said. “I see the future of Eagle Ridge Mall being better than it is right now.”

THE PAST

Eagle Ridge Mall opened the doors to its 660,000-square-foot facility in 1996. Originally, it had three anchor stores: Sears, JCPenney, and Dillard’s. It is also home to a Regal Cinemas movie theater and a bowling alley, both of which remain to this day.

Like many malls across America, it experienced its prime during the 1990s. However, with the rise of online shop ping, Eagle Ridge inevitably faced a decline. By 2009, the company that owned it filed for bankruptcy.

As Wikipedia explains: “General Growth Properties, Inc., the mall’s owner, owned 358 malls and shopping centers in forty-four states. This at the time was said to be the largest real estate bankruptcy in United States history. It was sold to Madison Marquette, and again in 2013 to Tabani Group.”

As with other malls nationwide, Eagle Ridge saw the closure of its main anchor stores, first with Sears closing in 2016, and JCPenny closing in 2020. Currently, Dillard’s is the one and only anchor store left remaining.

In 2018, Eagle Ridge Mall changed hands after being sold in an auction with an opening bid of $2.7 million. The mall was purchased by Stockbridge Enterprises, a Michigan company, for $7.8 million. According to The Ledger, by then, that mall was only “71 percent occu pied” and its “appraised value in 2017 was $2.6 million, down from $4.1 million in 2013.”

THE PRESENT

In June, Eagle Ridge was placed under new management with Caraway. His first order of business: repair the broken air conditioning unit. After the mall received countless complaints from patrons about the unbearable heat, he knew repairs were in order. So he invested $40,000 in ren ovating the system, as reported by Daily Ridge

The next order of business was to bring in new stores to the mall. He accom plished this by offering low rental fees. Currently, there are spaces for 95 stores in the mall. Over the past year, the mall

has had 56 stores open, making it halfway full, the Daily Ridge reported.

Caraway feels that appealing to new and prospective business owners is the best policy. Not everyone can open a new business at a storefront, but by covering their utilities with their rent, he hopes to attract new businesses with their afford able rates, he explained.

“I do not think there is anywhere in Lake Wales, maybe even Polk County, where you can go and start a business for a thousand dollars,” he said. “We cover your light and water bill. You do not have to worry about those extra hassles and costs of starting a business.”

Their biggest accomplishments under new management have been twofold. First was the opening of Spirit of Halloween, which saw foot traffic increase during the fall season. The second was the re-open ing of their bowling alley and entertain ment center as Lake Wales Bowl.

Estaban Nina and his wife revitalized the center and its eatery. The bowling alley and arcade are already up and run ning, the eatery is serving pizza, hot dogs, and wings.

The full-service restaurant is expected to open its doors soon, and delivery will soon be offered as well. Estaban owes its success to its customers, who have helped spread the news about it through word of mouth.

“This is a place that people have been wanting to be open,” he said. “Everyone who walks in is happy we have opened the bowling alley. It is really for them… They are commenting on how our custom er service is different than what it was in the past. They know we are family-orient ed and that we are catering to the families of Lake Wales.”

THE FUTURE

Caraway has high expectations that he hopes will be exceeded in the coming years. He expects more stores to move into the mall, especially larger big-brand stores. Hopefully, the added traffic from the new stores will help attract these larg er brands, he said.

“It is a Catch-22: to get a big brand store, you need the foot traffic, and to get

the foot traffic, you need the big brands,” he said. “So, my best advice is to patron ize the stores in the mall now so we can get back what used to be and build back better.”

Currently, a hair salon and academy are planned to be built in a former restau rant space. Also opening soon is Unicorn Castle, an entertainment venue for chil dren that will include event spaces, hair salons, and ear piercings.

Meanwhile, outside the mall, three fast-food franchises will be opening along US Highway 27 with Starbucks, Freddy’s Steakburgers, and Checkers. That corri dor has already experienced growth and development with the opening of Wawa at the corner of Highway 27 and Chalet Suzanne Road, and with Serenity Lake Apartment Complex across the road from

the mall.

Many events are planned to be hosted soon inside the mall, including a proposed comic book convention. Word of mouth has already spread on social media, with Caraway heavily promoting it through Facebook. With more and more people coming to the mall, Eagle Ridge will hopefully grow bigger and better.

“My advice is to come and see the difference,” he said. “There is a positive change and new businesses. We need people to appreciate what we do have, and when they do, they will see bigger and better things.”

Eagle Ridge Mall is located at 414 Eagle Ridge Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33859. For more information, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook. com/profile.php?id=100070360814526

STRANGE BUT TRUE

• In the early 1990s, cyclists who doped at the Tour De France used so much erythropoietin that they had to exercise throughout the night to avoid having heart attacks in their sleep.

• Pringles once tried to evade a hefty tax payment by claiming their product wasn’t potato chips.

• Do bears appreciate beauty like us humans? Some wildlife experts think so, as there have been many sightings of the animals sitting at scenic points and staring out at vistas of mountains, rivers, etc. They appear to have no other pur pose there than enjoying the view!

• Humans are more likely to die at around 11 a.m. than any other time of day.

• Who needs Harry Potter? Not

the city of Christchurch in New Zealand. Until 2021, the city paid Ian Brackenbury Channell $16,000 a year to act as a state-appointed wizard. His duties? To perform “acts of wizardry and other wiz ard-like services” for two decades.

• In the first few centuries of the Christian Era, controversy over whether or not Jesus was divine at birth created political and social unrest that frequently resulted in full-scale warfare.

• Some DVD copies of “Monty Py thon and the Holy Grail” include a subtitle track called “Subtitles for People Who Don’t Like the Film,” comprised of lines from Shake speare’s “Henry IV Part 2” that vaguely match what the actors are saying.

TRIVIA TEST

By Fifi Rodriguez

1. GEOGRAPHY: Which country is the most forested in the world? 2. HISTORY: When were tanks first introduced in war?

3. TELEVISION: What is the name of the Netflix sequel to the “Karate Kid” movies?

4. MUSIC: Which music prodigy was signed to a record deal at age 11?

5. ASTRONOMY: In which year will Halley’s Comet reappear?

6. LAW: Which justice served on the Supreme Court for the lon gest?

7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What kind of dogs did President Obama’s family have in the White House?

8. FOOD & DRINK: Where did the first White Castle restaurant open? 9. ANATOMY: What is the rarest human blood type?

10. LITERATURE: What is Harry Potter’s middle name?

Answers 1. Russia. 2. 1916, Battle of the Somme. 3. “Cobra Kai.” 4. Stevie Wonder. 5. 2061. 6. William O. Douglas (36 years). 7. Portuguese water dogs. 8. Wichita, Kansas. 9. AB negative. 10. James.

We Will Get Through This

Well, here we are at the end of another year. The holidays are upon us, Christmas is right around the corner, and right behind it is a brand-new year.

My New Year’s resolution was to keep my monthly column over all positive. I would not fall into the temptation of being yet anoth er mud-racking political pundit and complain about anything and everything on the news that ticked me off.

Instead, I vowed I would remain optimistic and use my column as a platform to discuss important political issues and policies—or, at the very least, talk about something good like a great movie. (BTW, have you all seen RRR? It’s the best film of the year and it’s streaming on Netflix!)

It hasn’t been easy, especially with all of the abject nonsense going on in the world, from Russia declaring war on Ukraine to Florida declaring war on Mickey Mouse. So many times, I wanted to break my resolution and just go into angry rant mode.

Yet, through it all, I remained firm, and, for the most part, I have written nothing but good vibes. This year was a nice change of pace after last year had me seeing red, from the failed coup on the Capitol to the many mass shoot ings across the country.

Keeping positive hasn’t been easy. This year in particular has been a real challenge. No joke, this year has been the absolute worst of my life. I’ve struggled with finances, my car and phone broke down, a close relative was in the hospital due to complica tions, and—worst of all!—my best friend in the whole world broke up with me.

I’ve spent the past year in a real funk. It felt like a little grey raincloud was hanging over me with a perpetual downpour. If I had a nickel for every time I broke down in a Taco Bell, I’d have

three nickels, which isn’t much but it’s sad it’s happened three times—which is three times too many!

Sure, I’ve had my up moments. I finally published my novel this year under my pen name. And my family came down from up north to visit me for a week. So that was nice!

And, fine, I guess I should “count my blessings” and be grateful that I’m not sick or injured or homeless or dying. But, honestly, I don’t consider all that to be a good thing. To me, all of that is just the bare minimum. Because, well, everyone should be healthy and financially well-off and no one should be the other wise.

I guess I should wrap this up with a message, huh? You all expect me to say things will get better, right? Honestly, I can’t say that. I don’t think that would be honest. With impending climate disaster, rising authoritarianism, and a potential world war, I don’t think I can honestly say things will get better. If anything, I wouldn’t be shocked if the rapture happens tomorrow, because it cer tainly feels like the End Times.

I will say this: we will get through this all. Things change— sometimes for the better, some times for the worst. But, inevita bly, we adapt to these changes. Our ability to adapt to change has allowed us to be the domi nant species. Throughout history, empires have fallen, and civiliza tions have come and gone; and yet, regardless, humanity remains and thrives.

So, remember this: no matter what you’re going through, your life will change, but you will make it through. We all usually do. Just keep hanging in there.

The views and opinions expressed in columns are not necessarily the views and opinions of Today & Tonight Magazine or Today & Tonight, Inc.

C A L E N D A R

be purchased in increments of $5 which is 2 tickets). Tues, 4:30-9 pm. Cost - $25 for 10 tastes. https://ldda.square. site/product/tasty-tuesday-tick ets/31?cs=true&cst=custom

JAN 6– December

Email Listings to: tracey@todayandtonight.com

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

Arts, Crafts, Festivals & Expos

acres learning about the village and gazing upon thousands of Christmas lights as they shine in the dark of the night. Take a tractor ride to 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 for cider, eggnog, cookies and music. Admission is canned good, toys, monetary donations or all three! Located 7000 Avon Park Cut Off Rd, Ft Meade. Fri & Sat, 6-9 pm. FloridaFlyWheelers.org/events

DEC

10– Mistletoe Market.

combination of seasonal shows, special treats, twinkling lights and more. These events are included in general admission –no extra ticket required! Enjoy an extra hour of festive fun with an 8 p.m. closing on Dec. 26-31, when nightly Kids’ New Year’s Eve fireworks return on each night! Located in Winter Haven. Weekends in Dec. Legoland.com/Florida

DEC 11–

Lakeland Food Truck Rally. Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally brings food trucks to Munn Park on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Come on out to Downtown Lakeland and enjoy a variety of Florida food trucks and their delicious cuisine. 20 plus food trucks come together each month and park on the streets surrounding beautiful Munn Park. Thurs, 6-9 pm. (next events: Jan 12, Feb 9)

DEC 8–

Hosted by Main Street Bartow. Holiday gifts, crafts, jewelry, Candles, Music, Food and Santa (10-3 pm). Located in downtown Bartow. Saturday, 10-4 pm.

DEC 10–5thAnnual

5th Annual Christmastime Celebration. Photos w/Santa, Toy Drive for the Mission of Winter Haven, Raffles, Live Music (2-6 pm). Located Tanners Lakeside, Winter Haven. Sun, 1-6 pm.

DEC 16– Starry, Starry

First Friday. Head to Downtown Lakeland on the first Friday of every month for First Friday; new theme each month. This month is Three Kings Celebration. Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Enjoy goodies, give aways, and discounts from local business exhibitors. Shop in the Makers Market, which features local artists and creators, and check out the Classy Car Show on Main St. First Friday is a family-friendly event held in the streets of Downtown Lakeland between Lemon Street and Oak Street along Kentucky Ave. and Main St. Downtown Lakeland, Fri 6-9 pm. DowntownLKLD. com

JAN 21&

Winter Wonderland. Hosted by City of Winter Haven and Main Street Winter Haven. Tons of Winter activities to enjoy. Meet Santa, Snow Flurries, Christmas Crafts, Food Vendors, and Movie on the Lawn (Elf). Located in Central Park, Downtown Winter Haven. Fri, 5:30-8:30 pm.

DEC 9–

Holiday Toy Drive. Hosted by Old Man Frank’s. Bring an unwrapped toy to help local children in need. Located at Old Man Frank’s, 1005 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven 33880.

DEC 10–

Night. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the night sky and telescope tech nology with local astronomers, encounter nocturnal animals, and listen to a special “starry night” themed Carillion concert. We are excited to welcome esteemed astronaut Nicole Stott to the gardens for a keynote presentation on space flight and art. Located at Bok Tower Gardens, Lk Wales. Fri, 5:3010 pm. Included in admission. BokTowerGardens.org

22 –Lakeland Gun Show. Presented by Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Center. 54 years of shows. Hundreds of tables. Best show in Florida. Buy, Sell, Trade. Concealed weapons classes available. Free parking. Located Sun ‘n Fun Expo Campus, 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland. Sat, 9-5 pm and Sun, 9-3 pm. Lakelandgunclub. com

JAN 28– Customer

DEC 9

– Bartow’s Magical Illumination Christmas Parade. Begins at Mosaic Park at 6 pm continues to Broadway and Main Street traveling east. Fri, 6-9 pm.

Balmoral Christmas & Brunch. Enjoy an allday Christmas event: Pictures with Santa, Brunch, Christmas Cookie Decorating, Entertainment by Davenport School of the Arts, Live Music w/Christmas Band. Brunch tickets available online at CentralFloridaTix.com. Located at Balmoral Bar & Grill, Balmoral Resort, Haines City. Sat, 12:3010 pm. BalmoralBarAndGrill. com for details and schedule.

DEC 20– Tasty

Tuesday.

Appreciation Party & Oyster Eating Contest. Enjoy drink specials, tastings, giveaways, live music. Register by 1 pm, Contest starts at 2 pm. Located at Old Man Frank’s, 1005 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven 33880.

Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows

DEC 9&

10, 16 & 17 - Florida Flywheelers Christmas in the Village. Journey through the

DEC 10to

31 –Holidays at LEGOLAND. Celebrate your holidays the LEGOLAND® way! This jolly time of year features a

Third Tuesday of every month. 10 tastes from downtown bars, restaurants, and sweet shops. New offerings every month. Tasty Tuesdays are a super fun way to experience multiple Downtown restaurants all in one night! You get hearty sample sizes with each ticket and move from place to place at your own pace! Tastings begin at 4:30pm and end at 9pm. Purchase your ticket package from LDDA. Tickets come in packets of 10 for $25. (Additional packs may

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

DECEMBER/JANUARY CONCERT CALENDAR

FRIDAY, DEC 2

SOUTH OF THE BLUES (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

SATURDAY, DEC 3

CHASE DIXON 2p/ CHUNKA SUMTHIN 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

JIM & JUDY TAYLOR (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

SOUL 2 EARTH (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

LUBECK (Hurricane Grill & Wings, WH)

SUNDAY, DEC 4

BLACK SATIN BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

LUBECK DUO (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

DAN PEPIN (Swan Brewing, LKD)

TUESDAY, DEC 6

HUMANE SOCIETY’S SANTA PAWS w/ BRASS HEART BAND (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 7

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, DEC 8

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

863 BAND (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

CHRISTMAS DRAG SHOW (Balmoral Event Center, HC)

TMIKE & DUKE (The Social Lounge, WH)

JACK SPROUSE (Swan Brewing, LKD)

BLACK SATIN DUO (Hard Rock Cafe, TMP)

FRIDAY, DEC 9

JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FOLEY, BUNKY AND THE BIG BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

BILLY DICKERSON (Crave & Copper, ADL)

MOTOWN (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

A TRAVELING GENTLEMAN (Brass Tap, LKD)

LOVE PIT wsg FILTHY ROYALTY, THE KNOCKDOWN, MARRISON, BALLISTIC MAFIA (Union Hall, LKD)

BLAKE FREE (Apple Lounge, WH) BULLY 4 U (Swan Brewing, LKD)

THE REEVES BROTHERS/ JESS KELLIE ADAMS (Ritz Theatre, WH)

FOR KING + COUNTRY; A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS (Amalie Arena, TMP)

JASON BONHAM (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

KISS ALIVE; TRIB TO KISS (Hard Rock Cafe, TMP)

SATURDAY, DEC 10

CHUNKA SUMTHIN DUO 2p/ CROSS TRAXX 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

CHASE DIXON & CO (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

SG WOOD 2p/ RICK GRAHAM 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD)

BAD SANTA & THE ANGRY ELVES (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

TRUE RUMORS; FLEETWOOD MAC TRIB. (Ritz Theatre, WH) SKIP FRYE (Big Cypress Grill, LKD) RUSTY WRIGHT BAND (Council Oak Lounge, TMP) FOR KING + COUNTRY; A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS (Amway Center, ORL)

SUNDAY, DEC 11

ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) FREE WHISKEY DUO 2p/ SNAKE FARM 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (Twisted Prop, WH) BILLY DICKERSON (Harborside, WH) PAUL CATALDO (Swan Brewing, LKD) THE BOURBON BROTHERS (Leo’s Live, LKD) ANTHONY NUNZIATA (Ritz Theatre, WH) LUANN DE LESSEPS (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

TUESDAY, DEC 13

THEATRE WINTER HAVEN COMMUNITY CHOIR (Hope Presbyterian Church, WH)

SKIP FRYE (Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 14

JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, DEC 15

JOEY FOLEY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) KATIE DOWNER (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) TONY KNIGHT (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

CIRCUS MUTT (Swan Brewing, LKD) JADE & DUKE (Resort at Canopy Oaks, LW)

FRIDAY, DEC 16

OAKLEE (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH) CELTIC CONUNDRUM (Crave & Copper, ADL)

ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

LOVE PIT (Union Hall, LKD) B. HAVEN (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

BLIND AMBITION (Cypresswood Pub, WH) SPANKIN’ SADIE (Apple Lounge, WH) ROGER BARLETT, JD SPRADLIN, DON FARR, JOHN FRINZI (Swan Brewing, LKD)

SKIP FRYE (Duke’s Brewhouse, WH)

RUSTY WRIGHT BAND (Hard Rock Cafe, TMP) 93.9 JINGLE BALL: BACKSTREET BOYS, BLACK EYED PEAS, BIG TIME RUSH, CHEAT CODES, TATE MCRAE, AVA MAX, JAX, NICKY YOURE (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, DEC 17

BLACK SATIN DUO (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

BOBBY JAMES (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) JIM & JUDY TAYLOR (Cypresswood Pub, WH) RECKLESS SAINTS 2p/ EVIL BILL & THE STRUGGLEBUS 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) DWIGHT ICENHOWER; ELVIS TRIB. 2p & 7p (Ritz Theatre, WH)

SKIP FRYE (Front Page Brewing, LKD)

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA 3p & 7p (Amway Center, ORL) XSCAPE, BELL BIV DEVOE wsg RAHEEM DEVAUGHN, TAMAR BRAXTON, 112, GINUWINE, H-TOWN, NEXT (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SUNDAY, DEC 18

LUBECK 2p/ SPANKIN SADIE 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD) B. HAVEN (Twisted Prop, WH) DWIGHT ICENHOWER; ELVIS TRIB. (Ritz Theatre, WH)

DADDY YANKEE (Amway Center, ORL)

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA 2p & 7p (Amalie Arena, TMP)

MONDAY, DEC 19

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Council Oak Lounge, TMP) DADDY YANKEE (Amway Center, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 21

BYRNE BROS. (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

JADE & DUKE

(Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

THURSDAY, DEC 22

CHASE DIXON (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

JOEY FOLEY (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Swan Brewing, LKD)

MICAH MADORE DUO (Council Oak Lounge, TMP)

FRIDAY, DEC 23

ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

FEVER BAND (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

BLUE COLLAR BAND (Leo’s Live, LKD)

RANDY MCNEELEY (Apple Lounge, WH)

TAILLIGHT REBELLION (Swan Brewing, LKD)

JADE & DUKE (Cherry Pocket, LW)

SATURDAY, DEC 24

CHUNKA SUMTHIN DUO 2p/

CROSS TRAXX 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

DOUG SHEEN (Swan Brewing, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, DEC 28

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, DEC 29

JADE & DUKE (Resort at Canopy Oaks, LW)

FRIDAY, DEC 30

SNAKE FARM (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

BLUE COLLAR BAND (Apple Lounge, WH)

PRIME COUNTRY (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

SKIP FRYE (Duke’s Brewhouse, WH)

SATURDAY, DEC 31

CROSS TRAXX (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

DUELING PIANOS (Balmoral Event Center, HC)

SECRET SOUL (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

LUBECK (Hurricane Grill & Wings, WH)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 4

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, JAN 6

AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES; TRIB TO BEE GEES (RP Funding Center, LKD)

MANFREDI ROCKS (The Wheelhouse Bar, DVPT)

ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

SATURDAY, JAN 7

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Resort at Canopy Resort, LW)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 11

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

JADE & DUKE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

FRIDAY, JAN 13

B. HAVEN (Resort at Canopy Oaks, LW)

WE THE KINGDOM & JEREMY CAMP wsgs ANDY MINEO, DISCIPLE, AUSTIN FRENCH, NEWSONG, ANNE WILSON (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, JAN 14

KEITH BASS, SOUTHERN EXPRESS, THE WILSON BROTHERS wsg SANDY BACK PORCH (Lk Alfred Bluegrass Bash, LA)

PAT TRAVERS (Music Ranch, LKD) BARRY MANILOW (Amalie Arena, TMP)

TUESDAY, JAN 17

BARRY MANILOW (Amway Center, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, JAN 18

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

COASTAL ACOUSTIC BAREFOOT MUSIC

THURSDAY, JAN 19

TELSA (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

FRIDAY, JAN 20

ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

SATURDAY, JAN 21 33 YEARS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

WEDNESDAY,

JIM & JUDY’S

JAN 25

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) ALTER BRIDGE wsgs MAMMOTH & RED (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

THURSDAY, JAN 26

CIRCUS MUTT (Swan Brewing, LKD)

FRIDAY, JAN 27

ANDY SHREEVE (Patio 850, LKD)

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Lakeland PigFest, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, FEB 1

JIM & JUDY’S

BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND (Amalie Arena, TMP)

FRIDAY, FEB 3

TOBY MAC wsg CROWDER, COCHREN & CO, TASHA LAYTON, JON REDDICK, TERRIAN (Amway Center, ORL)

SATURDAY, FEB 4

FREE WHISKEY BAND (Bok Tower Wine Walk, LW) CARRIE UNDERWOOD wsg JIMMIE ALLEN (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SUNDAY, FEB 5

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND (Amway Center, ORL)

TOBY MAC wsg CROWDER, COCHREN & CO, TASHA LAYTON, JON REDDICK, TERRIAN (Amalie Arena, TMP)

ATTENTION BANDS & VENUES Keep us up to date. Send live music info to tracey@todayandtonight.com Deadline is the 23rd of each month prior to publication.

Toys 4 Our Town

5th Annual Event Collects Toys For Children in Need

by James Coulter

Christmas is right around the corner. Most children will be finding gifts under their trees or in their stockings. Sadly, others will not. And even sadder: some of them live right here in Polk County.

Five years ago, Melanie Brown Culpepper wanted to change all that. She saw people donat ing at various toy drives, but she did not know where those donations were going. She wanted a drive that would send toys to children inside the county, especially in Winter Haven.

“I started wanting to give less fortunate chil dren in our town toys,” she said. “Sometimes, I felt that these toy drives, personally, I did not know where they were going. And I wanted to make sure the children in our town received something.”

For that very reason, she started Toys 4 Our Town. In collaboration with Freedom Tour Church located in Lake Wales, at Eagle Ridge Mall, all the donations are delivered locally in time for Christmas Day. This year, she will be hosting donation events at various bars, restau rants and other local establishments to collect unwrapped toys. These events will also feature live music, trivia nights, drink specials and raffles; something different at each location.

Once Melanie has made her rounds that month, she will send all her donations to Pastor Bobby Williams, who will deliver the toys with his team to children across the county. Last year, they were

able to reach out to 1,000 families, she said.

Freedom Tour Church engages in the local community with various charity drives, food drives, and disaster relief. In doing so, his church lives up to Christ’s calling to love and help your fellow man.

Pastor Bobby Williams loves giving back to his community. He especially loves being a blessing during this time of year, as many families are

unable to afford Christmas presents for their chil dren.

“It is always a God thing for us,” Williams said. “The Bible says it is a blessing to be a blessing, so we love seeing smiles on kids’ faces and families and they are very appreciative because many of them cannot afford to get anything.”

Melanie assists and hosts many other charity events throughout the community. Two years ago, she started the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation, a local non-profit organization dedicated to promot ing heart health by assisting local EMTs and other first responders and setting up AEDs throughout the community.

She started her organization shortly after the passing of her late fiancée Michael Culpepper, who passed away due to cardiac arrest. Since its inception, it has raised proceeds to confer schol arships to first responders and erect six AEDs in Winter Haven businesses including Melanie’s Cutting Edge, Old Man Frank’s, and The Mission.

Melanie owes her success in all her endeavors to her local community. Their support has allowed her to support them in turn. Together, they have accomplished great things, from ensuring peo ple survive heart problems to giving children Christmas presents.

“It takes all of us together and I am hoping the community will come out here to support this because we all need the support,” she said. “I will say it is very overwhelming, but I cannot let down kids in our town because if we stop doing this, then I am giving up on them, and I will never give up on helping others.”

Melanie has high hopes for this year’s event, to exceed last year's donations. Last year saw more than 1,000 families receive Christmas presents, and this year, she hopes to give out even more.

“I am hoping people come out to these locations because it is not just me and Bobby Williams with Freedom Church, it is all these locations out here willing to help me and all the bands who come out here promoting it,” she said. “I want to tell every one please work together and help each other because that's what it's all about. Especially this time of year; helping each other and blessing one another. ”

For more information about Toys 4 Our Town, visit Melanie’s Facebook page at: https://www. facebook.com/melanie.brown.90475069

Melanie Brown Culpepper hosts toy donation drop-off events to collect toys for needy children.

HOLIDAYS AT BOK TOWER GARDENS

POLK COUNTY’S RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

AUBURNDALE

TANTRUMS LAKESIDE GRILL

This is a one of a kind, waterfront, casual din ing experience where you can enjoy well-pre pared food, water sports in action and a beau tiful sunset on our multi-level covered deck overlooking Lake Myrtle in Auburndale. Delicious Seafood and more . . . featuring Oyster and Shrimp Po'Boys.We also have a large selection of Hand-dipped Ice cream, beer, wine and specialty beverages. Hours - Open Everyday at 11:00 am

Must try: Gator Bites, Oyster Nachos, and Shrimp & Grit Cakes

330 Denton Avenue, Auburndale 863-875-3974

HAINES CITY

BALMORAL BAR & GRILL

AT BALMORAL RESORT

Offering a casual dining environment complete with poolside outdoor seating, the Balmoral Bar & Grill serves up poolside lunches, afternoon drinks and evening meals. Popular among resort guests and locals alike, our poolside bar in Haines City offers a full bar with TVs and features a menu of shareable appetizers, fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, and more. Live music also offered on the patio most Saturday nights. Check our Facebook for schedule. Bar & Grill is open to the public and is located within Balmoral Resort Florida in Haines City, minutes from Winter Haven and Davenport. Must Try: Flatbreads and Club Sandwich. 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City (off Hwy 27) (863) 588-3097 • BalmoralBarandGrill.com

LAKELAND

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S NORTH LAKELAND

Lakeland’s Best Family Sports Pub. 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Gameplan Saturdays. Happy Hour 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Bingo Mondays from 5-6 pm. Kids Eat Free Wednesday from 4-8 pm. Trivia Night

on Thursdays from 8-10 pm.

Must Try: Hot & Fresh Fajitas - Everyday!

Chicken wings!

1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 www.beefobradys.com

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH LAKELAND

Great Food! Great Sports! Great Family Fun! 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Game Plan Saturdays. 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Coldest Beer In Town. Kids Eat Free Tuesdays & Sundays 4-8 pm. Now Featuring A Full Liquor Bar.

Must Try: Our Delicious Fajitas and Awesome Burgers 4810 South Florida Ave (863) 646-7757 www.beefobradys.com

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR

Serving Polk County for over 20 years! Cold Beer • Great Food • Family Fun • Best Wings in Town Independently delicious! Daily specials from 2-10 pm: Monday 60¢Tacos, Tuesday $5 Buffalo Shrimp, Wednesday 45¢ Boneless Wings, Tuesday & Thursday BOGO Bud & Bud Light Bottles, Friday, $9 Grouper Sandwich (All Day), Saturday 75¢ Wings (All Day).Hours: Mon.-Thurs, Sat. & Sun. 11 am to 10 pm. Fri. 11 am to midnight. Follow us on Facebook. FB@ChampsGrill 6645 S. Florida Ave. 863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com

MISTER FISH

Family owned and operated since 1968 offer ing the best fish sandwich around! Seafood, chicken and much more using only the best quality food and excellent service! Easily the best homemade food you’ll try! Hours Monday through Saturday 11am to 7pm and closed Sundays.

Must Try: Famous Fish Sandwich 715 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-4280

LAKE WALES

CRAZY FISH

Land mark eatery in Lake Wales. Fresh fish never frozen. Fun and casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner menu with daily specials. Mon. 4pm to 9pm. Tues. - Saturday 11:30am to 9pm. Closed Sun.

Must Try: Shrimp or Fresh Grouper 802 Henry St., Lake Wales (863) 676-6361

JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

We take pride in our welcoming environment, friendly service and famous burgers. Come in and check our daily lunch and dinner specials. Weekend specials. Prime rib, frog legs, fried shrimp and catfish.

Must Try: Homemade Pies 8675 Hwy 60 East, Lake Wales 863-696-1901, Find us on Facebook

WINTER HAVEN

326 BISTRO PIZZERIA

Bistro Pizzeria shares the art of perfectly ren dered simplicity. Wood burning oven, pizza by the slice, made to order specialty pizzas. Lunch & dinner menu. Warm & casual dining atmosphere.

Must Try: Classic Pizza Napoli 326 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven 863-875-4894 www.arabellas.us/bistro

APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL

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

Must Try: Famous Wings 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven 863-291-0340

ARABELLA’S

We offer the best Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, created from the freshest ingredients. Enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner in our chic Ave Bar. At Arabellas, our dedicated service and inviting ambiance makes us the premier choice for your lunch or dinner desti nation.

Must Try: Bananas Foster prepared table side 346 W. Central Ave. Winter Haven 863-293-1797 • www.arabellas.us

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Locally owned sports pub with 30 TVs and full bar. Lunch value combos Mondays-Fridays until 3pm. Award winning jumbo wings with famous sauces and dry rubs. Fresh salads,

sandwiches, wraps, burgers, tacos and din ner entrees available. Weekday Values: Mon. Burgers, Tues. Tacos, Wed. Wings, Thurs. Fajitas, Fri. Surf & Turf. See ya at Beefs!

Must Try: Award Winning Wings and Burgers 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 293-9464 • www.beefobradys.com

HARRY’S OLD PLACE

Serving up a large selection of fresh fish for over 27 years! Where the fish is always de-lish! Open for lunch and dinner. Great seafood menu also includes shrimp, scallops, mussels, oysters, crab legs, "fish of the day" board, steaks, chicken, pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups/chowders. Restaurant is located on the shores of Lake Ned in beautiful Winter Haven with a quaint pet friendly outdoor patio. Full bar available. Less than a mile from LEGOLAND. Kid's menu also available.

Must Try: Grouper in a Bag, the Broiled Seafood Combo and award winning Key Lime Pie! 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd., Winter Haven 863-324-0301 www.harrysoldplace.com

SOMEWHERE SPORTS BAR

Enjoy great food, great games and great times in a family-friendly atmosphere. As your sports headquarters, ESPN, NFL & MLB ticket available on 14 flat screen TV’s. Daily lunch specials Mon-Fri from 11-2 pm only $5.99. Open 7 days a week. Appetizers, Sandwiches, Wraps, Salads, Burgers, Pizza & Wings. Full liquor with Happy Hour Mon-Sat from 3-6 pm

Must Try: Jumbo Wings & Pizza 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524

THE TWISTED PROP BAR & GRILLE

Winter Haven's newest casual bar & grill nes tled on Lake May. Enjoy burgers, wings, wraps, sandwiches and cold beer in a picturesque setting on the Chain of Lakes. Happy hour on beer & wine is Monday to Friday from 2-7 pm. Indoor dining, Patio dining, Outdoor dining and Pet Friendly. Boat dock with multiple slips available. Stop in by car or by boat to enjoy!

Hours: Mon-Thurs, 11-9 pm. Fri & Sat, 11-10 pm. Sun 12-8 pm. Facebook for more info.

Must Try: Chicken Wings & Burgers 615 7th ST SW (863) 293-1937

1. Which pop song was about the exploits of Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen?

2. What was “Lady D’Arban ville” about?

3. Who wrote and released “Tell Her No”?

4. Which artist wrote the song “Woodstock”?

5. Name the song that contains these lyrics: “I’ve built walls, A for tress deep and mighty, That none may penetrate.”

ANSWERS

1. “Snoopy vs. the Red Baron,” by the Royal Guardsmen in 1966. Baron von Richthofen was credited with 80 air victories in 1917 but was himself shot down and killed in 1918.

2. Cat Stevens wrote the 1970

song when his girlfriend left on a modeling gig for a month. The song mentions a coffin; the girlfriend was justifiably upset and ended the relationship.

3. The Zombies, in 1965.

4. Joni Mitchell, in 1970. Mitchell herself did not actually attend the Woodstock festival after being told by her agent that it would be better for her career to appear on “The Dick Cavett Show” instead.

5. “I Am A Rock,” by Simon & Garfunkel, in 1965. The song had different versions, with acoustic guitar and then electric. Then a red vinyl demo was released for radio stations, with mono on one side and stereo on the other.

toothpaste (mild abrasive) to polish them off your iron’s face. Rinse with water, and next time, use distilled water for steaming.”

• Use silicone caulk to make nonskid beads on the bottom of your pet dishes. They will stay in one place instead of getting scooted all around the kitchen.

• Need a quick iron job but don’t have the time to iron? Spray a clean kitchen towel with a mixture of wa ter and a little fabric softener until damp. Pop it in the dryer with the item that’s wrinkled. It shouldn’t take more than 10 minutes to get all the wrinkles out and smell great to boot!

• While we’re on ironing tips, here’s a great one from T.C. in Ala bama: “If you have mineral deposits on your iron, use a toothbrush and

• “When driving a nail into a plaster wall, first put down a piece of tape at the spot where you will insert the nail. Tap the nail in right through the tape, then pull it away to discard. It often will keep the surrounding plaster from crumbling at the site of the nail.” -- W.L. in Oregon

• When your cabinet door mag net locks are too strong, try putting a piece of tape over the magnet. It decreases the strength of the mag net.

• If you paint your radiators, make sure that the paint you use is intended to be heat-resistant. To get the best finish, paint while the radiator is warm.

LITTLE FOOT

Little Foot is a brown with white blaze chest and paws male Hound mix. He is approximately 2 months old. Little Foot was found in a plastic container box with 10 other puppies at the Walgreens in Auburndale. Little Foot loves to talk and will let you know when he needs to eat and wants to play. His favorite playmate is Spike and they love to rough house and roll around with each other.

DUCKY

Ducky is a black and white female Hound mix. She is approximately 2 months old. Ducky was found in a plastic container box with 10 other puppies at the Walgreens in Auburndale. Ducky is a laid back little girl who loves attention and affection. She knows how to climb and will probably make a great agility dog as she has no fear of obstacles.

SERSI

Sersi is a 1 & 1/2 year old grey and black female Domestic Shorthair mix. This sweet little girl is the cat you've always dreamed of! She has had postivie experiences with other cats. She also does exceptionally well with children. Sersi handles grooming very well. She will sit in your lap patiently.

PARKER

Introducing Parker a Black and white domestic medium hair cat who is neutered, micro chipped, and up to date on his shots. He gets along with people of all ages as well as dogs. His favorite activity is pulling/ chasing strings and lounging in his cat bed. Parker is an energetic cat who prefers not to be picked up. But other than that he is very social.

The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884

www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227

Tues-Sat 10:30-6pm. Closed 1-2

Veterinarian of the Month

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 hus band, two daughters and a menagerie of pets.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

(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

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

BARS&PUBS

*Please

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

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd (863) 967-2739 Wed, Trivia 6p

Daily/Weekly Specials Pool, Darts, Full Liquor Sunday Ticket/SEC/ACC Smoke-Free/Outside Patio Dec 14, Toys 4 Our Town 6-9p NYE w/Champagne Toast

Crave & Copper 117 East Lake Ave (863) 968-2971

Local Microbrewery Patio Bar/Restaurant Wed-Sun, Open at 11a Fri-Sun, Live Music

BABSON PARK

Crooked Bass Grill/Tavern 1010 N Scenic Hwy (863) 589-5887

Full Liquor Seafood, Steaks & Burgers Live Music Fri & Sat Pool Table & Darts

BARTOW

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 E Van Fleet Dr (863) 534-3111

Full Liquor Sports Bar

Fun Bar 3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400 Karaoke Pool Table & Darts

Mulligan’s Sports Bar

Bartow Golf Club 150 N Idlewood (863) 533-1668

Fri, Karaoke 7-10p

Stanford Wines 165 S Central Ave (863) 800-3395

Open Daily 4-10 pm

Fine Wine & Charcuterie StanfordWines.com

FB@stanfordwines

The Wine Stable

150 S Broadway (863) 533-9463

Full Bar Live Music

Food Avail.

DAVENPORT

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350

Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps

Fireside Lounge & Billiards 43356 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100

Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables

Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 2-7p Live Music

The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880

TVs, Pool Table Darts, Jukebox Wed & Sat, Karaoke 9p

The Wheelhouse/19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560

Tue & Fri, Karaoke 9p

Thu, Trivia 8-10p

DUNDEE

Out-n-About Bar (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537

Tue, Fri, Sat & Sun, Live Music

Wed & Sun, Karaoke

Thu, Ladies Night

FROSTPROOF

P & J Recreation

33 S Scenic Hwy (863) 635-9825

Home of Famous Slaw Burger!

Full Liquor

FT. MEADE

Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 N Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732 Food Avail.

HAINES CITY

Amos Tavern 200 US Hwy 17 92 N (863) 422-1459

Balmoral Bar & Grill 124 Kenny Blvd (863) 588-3097

Patio Dining & Full Bar Live Music Mon, Jukebox Bingo 6-8p Tue, Trivia 6-8p Wed, Karaoke 6-9p Fri, DJ/Latin Nights 7-10p

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848

Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs

Ducky’s Dockside Bar & Grill 1090 Shady Cove Rd E (863) 353-5295

Thu, Acoustic Jam 6p Fri, Karaoke 6p

Sat & Sun, Live Music

Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Karaoke, Darts, Billiards Live Bands Happy Hour 12-7p

Shady Cove Bar & Grill 7140 State Road 544 E (863) 421-6800

Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 4-7p Open Daily 12p Daily Food/Drink Specials

LAKE ALFRED

LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F

LAKELAND

1916 Irish Pub Cleveland Heights Golf Course 2900 Buckingham Ave (863) 834-2384 Daily, 11a-10p Thu, Ladies Night 5-9p Sat/Sun, Brunch 10-3p Food, Full Bar

Ax-Caliber 204 E Orange St, Ste 102 (863) 592-3500

Tue-Wed 11a-10p/Thu-Fri 11a-11p Sat 10a-11p, Sun 10a-7p Axe Throwing, Virtual Gun Range Coffee House, Restaurant Beer & Wine

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 Florida Ave (863) 646-7757

Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs

The Brass Tap 1515 Town Center Dr Lakeside Village (863) 680-9994 Daily, Open at 12p Martini Wed, $5 Craft Beers, Full Bar Food, Live Music

Brewlands Bar & Billiards N. 5161 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-2038

Smoke-Free Billiards/Sports Bar 20 Pool Tables, Dart Boards Game Room, Full Kitchen Open Daily, Full Liquor

Brewlands Bar & Billiards S. 5733 S Florida Ave (863) 646-2600

Pool & Billiard Sports Hall

Full Liquor Bar Open Daily Sun & Wed, S.I.N. Night Thu, Ladies Night

Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Open Daily, 11a-10p Daily Specials 2-10p Tue, Ladies Night 4p-cl Tue/Thu, BOGO Bud/Bud Light Btls

Thu, Free Trivia 8p

Cob & Pen 1221 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8126

Craft Beer & Wine

Full Liquor Bar Food/Light Food

Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E Edgewood Dr Suite G (863) 686-6441

Duke’s Brewhouse 4960 S Florida Ave (863) 647-9464

Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music

Frescos Bistro 132 S Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7

Monthly Pairings

Great Bistro Fare Full Bar/Crafted Cocktails

Gator’s Dockside

Highland City 5135 S.R. 98 (863) 619-7627

Food, Full Bar Open late night

Hookah Palace 122 S Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818

Hrs: Thu-Sat, 4p-2a Thu, Latin Nite w/DJ Fri & Sat, DJ

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

Lakeland Loft 108 S Tennessee Ave (863) 210-5327

Full Liquor Jazz & Cigar Lounge Business Casual Sun –Thu Dress to Impress Fri & Sat

Leo’s Live Music & Billiards (A.K.A. Ybor Cigars) 5263 S Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music

Linksters Tap Room (Dntn) 209 E Main St (863) 683-7195 Daily, 12p

Full Liquor Smoke Free Sports Bar

Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl) 4318 US Hwy 98 N (863) 858-3878 Mon, Poker 7p Wed, Poker 11a 1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands

Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer 1853 E Memorial Blvd (863) 583-9119

Hpy Hr 2-7p

Tue, Karaoke 6:30p

Wed, $6 Burgers

Fri, Ladies/Latin Night

Sun, 50 cent Wings

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub

111 S Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231

Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri

Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 4204 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8925

Daily, 12p

Full Bar, TVs

Darts, Golden Tee, Pool

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

Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas

Rec Room

202 N Massachusetts Ave (863) 213-4073

Open 4p Mon-Fri, 11a Sat & Sun

Open Late Night

Daily Specials, 50+ Games Wed, Ladies Night

Food Trucks Fri & Sat 8p

Family During Day/21+ after 9p

Revival Bar

119 S Kentucky Ave (863) 606-6090

Open 12p Daily/Smoke-Free Craft Cocktail Bar

Vintage Cocktails, Beers Relaxed Seating Areas

Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S Florida Ave (863) 683-4703

Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor

T A Slammers 1011 S Florida Ave (863) 682-4178

Full Liquor Nightly Specials

T-Bows 33 Lounge

4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd (863) 683-1201

Happy Hr 4-6p; $2.75 Wells, $2.25 20oz Drafts Wed-Sat, Karaoke 9p

Wally’s Pool Hall 1136 E Main St (863) 688-4460

Hpy Hr, Mon-Sat 11-7p Mon, 9-Ball Tourn Tue & Thu, APA 8 & 9-Ball Thu, Ladies Nite w/free pool

Wild Greg’s Saloon 4951 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-9133

Thu-Sat, 7p-2a Nightclub/Concert Venue

Winner’s Circle 4215 S Florida Ave (863) 644-9464

Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p

The Yard On Mass 802 N Massachusetts Ave (863) 333-0330

Open Daily Beer Garden, Food Trucks Full Bar, Live Music

LAKE WALES

Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 241-3070

Sat, $1 Days: Drafts, Sodas, Fries, Sliders, Chili Dogs Open Daily 11-4; Wed & Fri, 11-7p

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

Sports Bar Open Daily 11a-11p

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975

Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs

Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak 3100 Canal Rd (863) 439-2031

Seafood, Full Liquor Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p Thu, Fri & Sat, Music 6-10p

Gator Mack’s Sports Bar

Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863

Open 7 Days Tue-Sat, 4-10p Food Avail. Full Bar, Music Darts, Pool Tables Outdoor Patio

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

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

RIVER RANCH

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

WINTER HAVEN

AJ Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 875 5623 Pub, Pool Hall, Karaoke Darts, Full Liquor

Apple Lounge 2803 Recker Hwy (863) 291-0340 Happy Hr, Mon-Fri 11-7p Food Avail./Daily Specials Mon, Pool Tourn Poker, Karaoke, Bands

Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 W Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Mon-Sat, 4p Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4:30-6:30p Sat, Hpy Hr 5-6:30p Full Menu/Full Bar Smoke-Free

Barrel239 239 3rd St SW (863) 229-7740 Whiskey Bar Open Daily Drink Specials 1-4p Smoke-Free

BARS&PUBS

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464

Full Liquor Sports Pub 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special

Central Tavern 273 W Central Ave (863) 229-5027 Open Daily 12p Full Bar Smoke-Free Outside Patio

Duke’s Brewhouse 1708 6th Street SE (863) 576-9464

Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music

Fire Restaurant 325 W Central Ave (863) 875-5544 Wed, Fire Jass Trio Sun, Brunch

Gary’s Grove 2995 Cypress Gardens Rd (863) 325-0001 Mon, Live Music Fri, Karaoke Pizza/Hot Dogs Avail

Grape Expectations 535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 318-8800 Wine Bar Smoke-Free

Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW (863) 291-0700

Food Truck & Live Music Wed-Fri 4p, Sat-Sun 12p Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free

Harborside Restaurant 2435 7th Street SW (863) 293-7070 Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-5:30p Waterfront Dining

High Seas Lounge 7000 State Rd 544 (863) 299-2233

Great Food/Drink Specials Live Music

Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW (863) 298-6755

Outdoor Patio Thu, Live Music Smoke-Free Dec 6, Santa Paws

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

Laugh Out Lounge 19 3rd Street NW Wed, Thu, Sun 5-10p Fri & Sat 5-11p

Comedy Club/Bar Beer/Wine FB@LaughOutLoungeWH

Obscure Wine Company 276 W Central Ave (863) 268-6555

Mon-Thu 11a-10p Fri-Sat 11a-12a, Sun 11a-8p Mon, Magical Mon 11a-10p Wed, Wine Down Wed 5-8p

Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767

Happy Hr 12-7 Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue, Fri, Sat - Poker Pool Tables, Darts & Food Avail.

Old Man Frank’s 1005 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179

Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p

Daily Specials, Oyster Bar Fiesta Wed w/$1.50 Tacos Wed, Karaoke Thu-Sun, Live Music Dec 25, Open 4p w/Dinner NYE w/Champagne Toast

Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 875-5708 Daily, 12pm Irish Style Sports Bar Pool, Darts, Golden Tee TVs, Full Bar

Past Time Lounge 1605 1st Street S (863) 293-0027 Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table

Slate 8 Family Billiards 20 4th Street NW (863) 247-8899

Smoke-Free Pool Hall Open Daily, Outdoor Patio Full Bar, Food Available Wed, Dart Tourn 7p FB@Slate8Pool

The Social Lounge 356 3rd Street NW Mon-Fri, 4p-2a Sat, 2p-2a; Sun, 2p-12a Piano Bar

Speakeasy-style Lounge Classic/Craft Cocktails Wine and Beer

Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 324-7524

Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily Beer Specials/Sports Packages Lunch Specials Mon-Fri

Tanner’s Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 662-5948

Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Wed, 1/2 Price Wines Wed, Bingo Thu-Sun, Live Music Dec 11, Toy Drive NYE w/Champagne Toast

Union Taproom 245 W Central Ave, ST 102 (863) 268-4921

Hrs: Tue-Thu 4-10p, Fri 4-11p, Sat 12-11p, Sun 12-7p

40 Self Pour Taps; Brews & More

Pizza: Wed-Fri, 4-cl/Fri & Sat,12-cl Wed, Trivia 7p

Fri & Sat, Live Music 7-10p 1st Thu, Night Market 6-9p

THE GALA

Presented by:

Mr. & Mrs. George O’Neill, Jr.

On behalf of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, we would like to express our gratitude to the 2022 Gala sponsors. Your continued leadership and investment in this important community initiative is of great value to Winter Haven Hospital and the patients we serve.

Proceeds raised from the 2022 Gala will be utilized locally to operate the Foundation’s new American Psychological Association Accredited training program for Doctoral-level Clinical Psychologists in Winter Haven.

JD & Cindy Alexander

PLATINUM SPONSORS

The Winter Haven Hospital Medical Staff

Family

Auction Sponsors

Citizens Bank & Trust

LowPaymentKings.com powered by: Mahalak Auto Group

Gold Sponsors 97 Country WPCV and Max98.3

Atlantic Payroll Partners –John & Beth Dial

Ben Hill Griffin, Inc.

Central Florida Health News Dr. and Mrs. David Evans

Fidelity Investments

Mixon Family Foundation

Morgan Stanley –

The Scheck / Lewis / McKown Group

Polk State College

Publix Super Markets Charities

SouthState Bank

Bar Sponsors

Anonymous Today & Tonight Magazine VITAS Healthcare

Décor Sponsors A&E Auto Body, Inc. –Michael & Vicki Arrington Anonymous

Silver Sponsors Bank of Central Florida Haven Magazine

Radiology and Imaging Specialists Straughn & Turner, P.A.

Bronze Sponsors

Adamson & CO., P.A.

Mrs. Sarah Jane Alexander Bell – Barnett Family Fund within the GiveWell Community Foundation City of Winter Haven Cypress Bank & Trust

Erin Floyd – Realtor, Coldwell Banker Alan & Beverly Gustafson Henkelman Construction, Inc. Cindy and Charlie Henry Don and Christine Ingram Mr. Ronald Johnson and Ms. Robin Mrasek Pediatrix Medical Group Sound Physicians Ms. Bet Tucker

Dr. Peter and Lenore Verrill Victor Smith Law Group, P.A. Wawa, Inc.

Special Thanks

A Chair Affair, Inc., Cindy Alexander, Vicki Arrington, Bay Stage Live, Bloom Shakalaka, Beth Dial, Dunkin' Donuts, Good Food Catering – Chef Kevin Lacassin, HERC Rentals, Christine Ingram, International Diamond Center | Lakeland, Marie Mixon, Lynn Oakley, Obsessive Geek – Clyde Bielss, Rivero Gordimer & Company P.A., Terrie Lobb Catering, Carylene Walker, Wizard Connection

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