LKLD March 2021

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Manasota Permit #1092 Postal Customer ECRWSS

March

LKLD

Letter From the Editor

Keep Their Hearts Beating

Lifeline Membership Homeless pets in need count on our assistance.

Be their lifeline and give a one-time or monthly recurring gift today! Your support will save precious lives and keep their hearts beating: www.spcaflorida.org/lifeline

ON THE COVER: Photography by LKLDlense.

Read more about her in this month’s issue.

Hello & Happy March!

This month we are celebrating the “silver linings” of 2020. One year ago, we all began to shelter at home. At the time, we didn’t know how long it would last or what our lives would look like afterward. Our lives changed in 2020 and we were inspired by the people in our city that made the best of it.

In this issue, we talk to people that lost their jobs during quarantine and had to start over completely. Some people started a new hobby that grew into a business earning additional income. We talk with people who made the best of things when times got tough. They were inspiring for us to talk to, and I hope you can feel that, too. For even more inspiring people, visit us at havenmagazines.com and read our interviews in our Haven Magazine.

Tag your FB and IG posts with #lkldhaven, and you might find it printed in the April issue of Haven. Thanks for picking us up every month, we appreciate your support.

I’ll see you around town!

Amy Sexson Editor/Partner Haven & LKLD Magazines amy@destroyermedia.com

Call Us Today

Seamless Gutters

$50 off 100 ft or more*

Screened Rooms • Vinyl Siding

863.289.2368 Licensed and insured *Expires 3/31/21

5

LKLD M A R C H

CONTENTS

FEATURES SKINNY MCGEE.............................................................16 LKLDLENSE.....................................................................20 ORANGE BLOSSOM POEMS................................. 22 ROGUE’S RELICS.........................................................24 BUENA MARKET..........................................................28 SO VERY AX-CITING.................................................. 32 5.......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 8..................................................................LOCAL NEWS 10............................................................... TOP 10 TO DO 36 ..................................................................... COCKTAIL 37 .....................................................CHECK ME OUT ;) 39.....................................................................CALENDAR 44...............................................................SOLD HOMES 48...............................................................#LKLDHAVEN

havenmagazines.com

6

MARCH VOLUME 4 ISSUE 5 Publisher Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com Editor Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com Managing Editor Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com Photographer Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com Art & Production Manager Steven Maynard steven@destroyermedia.com Ad Director Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com Events & Marketing Jessica Parker jessica@destroyermedia.com Contributing Writer Barry Friedman LKLD HAVEN is published twelve times a year by Destroyer Media & Marketing.

LKLD distributes 13,500 copies a month with 7,701 mailed to homes and 5,800 copies available at select locations throughout Lakeland.

For advertising information please contact: christine@destroyermedia.com To submit to our calendar: amy@destroyermedia.com Office: PO Box 1607 Winter Haven, Florida 33881 863-225-8658

2017 Best Digital: Social Media 2018 Best Design: Cover Best Redesign 2019 Best Writing: Feature Best Advertisement: For a Client Best Photography: Cover 2020 Best Writing: Humor Best Digital: Social Media 7

LOCAL NEWS WORDS Barry Friedman/LkldNow.com

POLK SENIORS GETTING MORE VACCINE OPTIONS

ARTIST TRANSFORMS MUNN PARK OAK WITH PINK WRAPPING

MAIN LIBRARY ADJUSTS SERVICES DURING CONSTRUCTION

TIGERS ADJUST SPRING TRAINING FOR A COVID SEASON

WATCH FOR NEW MURALS ON S. FLORIDA AVE.

For many seniors in Polk and their family members, finding a COVID-19 vaccine has been top of mind in recent weeks. When February began, the main places for residents 65 and older to sign up for a vaccine were with the Polk health department or counterparts in nearby counties.

By the end of the month, they could sign up for vaccines at local Publix, Walmart, and Sam’s Club pharmacies. For those able to travel a county or so away, mass vaccination centers are scheduled to open on March 3 in Tampa and Orlando. To register for the new mass vaccination sites, go to myvaccine.fl.gov.

People celebrating Valentines Day in downtown Lakeland may have thought the pink wrapping on a sprawling oak tree in Munn Park was just for them. But the timing was purely incidental. The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority had contacted artist David Collins in November about adding public art to the park. He did some research and discovered that nylon ripcord fabric allows trees to breathe. So he ordered 300 yards of fuchsia fabric.

It was mid-February before city parks crews could help him wrap the tree, so that’s when it was done. The art installation is expected to stay in place for six months.

Access to Lakeland’s main library on Lake Mirror will be limited for the next eight months or so. Construction crews are reconfiguring part of the library to accommodate a new Lakeland History and Culture Center.

The center will spotlight the diverse ethnic groups that have contributed to Lakeland’s development. The children’s room will still be available.

So will Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro. The best way to access the library’s collection will be to order online or by phone and pick up items at the library’s temporary entrance facing the parking lot.

The roar of the crowd will be a bit muted this month at Detroit Tigers Spring Training games. Seating in the stands at Joker Marchant Stadium has been reduced from more than 8,000 to 2,000 as a coronavirus precaution. Likewise, fewer people will be allowed on the outfield berm and in suites. Interactions between fans and players have been restricted, so no autographs, please.

And Major League Baseball adjusted schedules last month so that a majority of games will be played against nearby teams. For the Tigers, that means 23 out of 29 Florida games will be played against the Phillies, Yankees, and Blue Jays, all of whom practice in Hillsborough or Pinellas.

South Florida Avenue is about to get a lot more colorful in Dixieland and downtown. Lakeland’s Community Redevelopment Authority has money for murals, and they are looking for artists to paint them and businesses to host them. The agency has catalogued 75 blank building canvasses between George Jenkins Boulevard and Lenox Street, the area eligible for Art Infusion Grants. At least one project is already underway. Artist Kate Hall of Lakeland is adorning a 100-foot wall alongside Low County Vintage with a colorful depiction of crape myrtle blossoms. Learn more at lakelandcra.net/artinfusion.

FOUR CANDIDATES RUNNING IN APRIL CITY ELECTION

DEAL NEAR ON VACANT LAND NEAR BONNET SPRINGS PARK

POUNCEY TWINS STICK TOGETHER AS THEY EXIT THE NFL

CITY OMITS CRIME HISTORY FROM JOB FORMS

GOSPEL INC. GETS GRANT FOR COVID HOUSING

It’s election time again. Voters in Lakeland will choose between four candidates on April 6 to fill a temporary vacancy on the City Commission. The seat representing southeast Lakeland was vacated when former Commissioner Scott Franklin became a member of Congress. The winner will serve until the end of the year and will be able to run as an incumbent when an election for a full four-year term is held this November.

Candidates are: Steve Frankenberger, 56, manager of the photography department Publix at Super Markets; Mike Musick, 49, owner of Musick Construction and Roofing; Ken Post, 55, whose career has focused on building management for nonprofits; and Shandale Terrell, 46, a special-needs educator for Polk County Public Schools.

The owners of the reclaimed acreage near downtown Lakeland that once held Florida Tile say they are close to selling the property. The undisclosed buyer wants to build a multi-use development there. They haven’t said precisely what will go there, but look for offices, retail, multi-family dwellings, and perhaps a hotel. Proceeds from the sale will fund maintenance for the 168-acre Bonnet Springs Park, being developed next door. Lake Wire Development Co., which will be selling most of the property, is a subsidiary of the nonprofit organization overseeing the development of the park.

“As I write this farewell speech, I cry and I laugh that twin boys from Lakeland, Florida that grew up in poverty made it this far in life both living out NFL dreams.” That was the message from Pittsburg Steelers All-Pro offensive lineman Maurkice Pouncey when he and twin brother Mike Pouncey announced they were retiring from the NFL at age 31. Both brothers played for the Lakeland High Dreadnaughts and the University of Florida before launching their pro football careers. “We wanted to make it cool to be offensive linemen and we accomplished it,” Mike wrote in his farewell message.

The city of Lakeland has joined many other employers around the U.S. who have “banned the box” on employment applications. The box is the one that asks applicants whether they have been convicted of a criminal offense. Information about criminal history will still be discovered during background checks, but not until after the applicant has been interviewed for the job and shown that he or she is a qualified candidate, city officials say. “There are pros and cons to Ban the Box initiatives but we believe the pros far outweigh the cons,” City Manager Shawn Sherrouse said. “We will increase our pool of applicants, provide a second chance for qualified individuals and open our job market to those that made a mistake but paid their dues to society.”

Brian Seeley, the founder of the nonprofit Gospel Inc. has long dreamed of a tiny-house community where chronically homeless people could live and be trained for employment.

A recent grant of $1 million awarded to Gospel Inc. might be a step toward achieving that dream. The organization used the grant to buy a fixer-upper mobile home park at Lake Parker Avenue and Lemon Street to provide housing for people experiencing homelessness who have been diagnosed with or at risk of contracting COVID-19. The property has 37 mobile homes and cottages, and Seeley plans to increase the size to 54 units. “This village is a first step and first phase towards what we as a community could potentially provide for many more people experiencing homelessness that need a loving, purpose-filled place to call home,” Seeley said.

havenmagazines.com

8

Spring BREAK

30 ALL

%

off

SUNGLASSES*

REQUIRES

sunglasses!

Auburndale 202 Magnolia Ave

Haines City 100 Patterson Rd

Lakeland-Harden 3350 Harden Blvd

Sebring 5032 US Hwy 27 N

Clermont 1050 US Hwy 27 N

Lake Wales 2800 A Ridge Way

Lakeland-Highlands 2004 Co. Rd. 540 A

Winter Haven 407 Ave K, SE

800.282.EYES(3937) • EyesFL.com • FB.com/EyesFL *Offer valid on Rx and non-Rx sunglasses. Offer cannot be combined with insurance or any other discounts. Valid March 1-31, 2021.

9

LAKELAND TOP 10 DANIELA SOLEDADE & NATE NAJAR FROM BRAZIL WITH LOVE

“QUEST: PIERRE AND CATHY DUTERTRE” For the past decade, Pierre and Cathy Dutertre have created compelling artwork as a photographic duo, integrating their individual and collective experiences into a thoughtprovoking and moving body of work that forms the centerpiece of this exhibition. On view through March 28 at the Polk Museum of Art. Schedule visit online at PolkMuseumofArt.org/Quest

LIVE MUSIC & BEER Most weekends throughout the month at Swan Brewing in downtown Lakeland. Watch their FB page for show updates. Food trucks will be serving up delicious food that goes perfectly with your favorite brew from Swan. Sit outside in the covered patio area with a beautiful view of the lake.

SPRING OBSESSION

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

March 13, 8am-3pm at Lake Crago Park in Lakeland. The Lakeland Rotary Club’s 18th Annual “Spring Obsession” with plants galore, music, BBQ, children’s tent, outdoor decor, prize drawings! This is the 18th year for this family-friendly event. www.springobsesson.org

March 17. “May the winds of fortune sail you, May you sail a gentle sea. May it always be the other guy who says, ‘this drink’s on me.’” Don’t drink and drive, be safe my friends, celebrate wisely.

MAYOR’S BREAKFAST March 3, 7am at Sun ‘n Fun. Hear from local leaders about the impact COVID has had on tourism in Central Florida and what’s next for our county. The event will be in the Skylight Hangar to allow for social distancing, masks are required, breakfast by Frescos.

Must register in advance at secure.qgiv.com/for/maybre

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL March 4 - 14 at the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds in Plant City.

Enjoy 11 full days of strawberries, shortcake, concerts, rides, stage shows, attractions, food, exhibits, displays, contests, competitions, and fun for the whole family.

10am-10pm, more info at flstrawberryfestival.com

SPRING BREAK ART CAMP

NEIGHBORHOOD STORYTIME

CENTRAL PARK ART FESTIVAL

March 18, 10am-noon hear “Green Eggs and Ham” at the Medulla Resource Center. This is a new program from Polk County Parks & Recreation designed to promote family literacy, among families with kids up to 6-years old. Hands-on activities will follow the readings and snacks will be provided to celebrate the theme of each children’s book. For more information, please call 863-647-4035.

March 20 from 10am-5pm and March 21 from 10am-4pm in Central Park in downtown Winter Haven. Presented by Ridge Art Association and Victor Smith Law Group. Visit Winter Haven for a large collection of fine art and fine crafts, music, food, and even children’s hands-on art by Polk State College. Ridgeart.org

10

March 12, 7pm at Bok Tower Gardens. Experience a bossa nova experience for all ages. Enjoy the lush vocals of Daniela Soledade and the masterful guitar stylings of Nate Najar. The CenterState Bank Concerts Under the Stars series is a co-production of Lake Wales Arts Council and Bok Tower Gardens. $36 members/$40 non-members, and $48 day of the concert more info online. boktowergardens.org

March 22-26 at the Polk Museum of Art for kids ages 7-13. Camp classes provide the freedom of exploration through creativity, process, medium, and technique.

Max capacity for classes is 15 students. All classes are taught by certified art teachers and/or art professionals. Must register in advance. 863-688-7743 polkmuseumofart.org/springcamp

*Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house.

CHEST PRESSURE

CAUTION NARROWED ARTERIES AHEAD

Chest pressure, a squeezing sensation or chest pain. These feelings may be angina, a symptom of heart disease.

Your heart comes with a warning system called angina, which happens when part of the heart doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), a type of heart disease that occurs when arteries that carry blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. Although angina often feels like a pinching sensation in the chest, it can also be accompanied by sluggishness, fatigue and chest tightness. If you experience any of these symptoms, the heart experts at BayCare’s Bartow Regional Medical Center can quickly get to the cause and treat it with a procedure that’s right for you.

Diagnosing and treating CAD is just one area of our expertise. Using state-of-the-art technology, our compassionate team of experts provides a suite of other advanced heart care services. From connecting you to heart specialists, to treatment options for a variety of heart conditions like rhythm disorders and heart attacks, Bartow Regional Medical Center is here when you and your heart need us. And we have enhanced safety measures to help keep you protected, so you can feel secure getting the care you need. Don’t ignore your heart’s warning system. Learn more and get a cardiology referral: BartowRegionalHeart.org

11 21-1378453-0221

ORLANDO TOP 10 JOSEPHINE This critically acclaimed, offBroadway musical combines cabaret, theater, and dance to tell the story of Josephine Baker, the first African American superstar and one of the most remarkable figures of the 20th Century. This show takes place outdoors under the tented Darden Foundation Courtyard with socially distanced cabaret tables, select days through March 21 at Orlando Shakes.

For mature audiences only. orlandoshakes.org

ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS

WILD ZOO ART

JOHN WILLIAMS: BIG SCREEN BLOCKBUSTERS

March 13, 10am-noon at the Central Florida Zoo. Meet an animal up close and paint its portrait. An art instructor will guide everyone to create their own masterpiece as both kids and adults meet some amazing animals at the zoo! Supplies will be provided. Space is limited, ages 5–13, must register in advance. centralfloridazoo.org

havenmagazines.com

The Orlando Solar Bears return to the Amway Center for the 2021 season. Watch them go head-to-head with teams in the ECHL. Attendance will be limited, tickets available. Prices, days, and times vary. Purchase your tickets in advance at orlandosolarbearshockey.com The Orlando Solar Bears are part of the ECHL Premier “AA” Hockey League.

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra presents the music of John Williams. Enjoy highlights of the scores from Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Hook, Saving Private Ryan, and more! March 13 at 3:30 and 7:30 at Calvary Orlando in Winter Park. Purchase tickets in advance.

Orlandophil.org

EPCOT INT’L FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW March 3 - July 5 at Epcot in Disney World. Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens with topiary sculptures of Disney characters.

Purchase food at outdoor kitchens, watch live entertainment, and more. Must reserve tickets in advance and adhere to CDC guidelines while in the park. disneyworld.disney.go.com

ORLANDO CRITICAL MASS March 26. Orlando’s largest on-going group bicycle ride takes place the last Friday of every month. Ride meets at Loch Haven Park at 6:30pm and leaves at 7pm sharp, rain or shine. The route is 9-10 miles long and is fun for all riders, from beginner to expert!

Lights are required. Helmets are required for riders 16 and under but recommended for all. More info on FB @OrlandoCriticalMass

12

SUNDAY BRUNCH & STRING ENSEMBLE March 7, 1pm. Pick your own socially distant, outdoor box for 2–5 people at the Mainstage at Seneff Arts Plaza in front of the Dr. Phillips Center, the entry gates are on Orange Ave. Join Orlando Philharmonic Concertmaster Rimma Bergeron-Langlois and her colleagues for an afternoon of beautiful music for string instruments. Purchase ticket in advance. 407-358-6603 drphillipscenter.org

THORNTON 2ND THURSDAY March 11, 6:30-9:30pm. This wine and art stroll takes place in the Thornton Park District on the 2nd Thursday of the month. With over 25 places to stop for a tasty libation along with art vendors, live music, DJs and fun. The Thornton Park District Neighborhood is at North Summerlin Avenue in Orlando. $10 orlando.gov

ART NIGHT OUT

FIGHT FOR AIR CLIMB ORLANDO March 27, 8am. Join lung health and clean air advocates, first responders, and athletes of all abilities as they conquer the stairs of Exploria Stadium. The Fight For Air Climb is one of the American Lung Association’s signature fundraising events that supports the mission of the organization - to save lives by improving lung health. Registration is open at FightForAirClimb.org/Orlando.

March 31, 6-8:30pm. Join the Orlando Museum of Art for a fun night out! You will work alongside an art teacher to create your very own masterpiece.

Students are asked to wear a face covering and will be spaced out throughout the classroom. Due to health concerns, beverages will not be served. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

For any questions, please call 407.896.4231 ext. 261. omart.org

*Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house.

& s k c o r m a h S nan ig ans e h S IRISH FOOD, DRINK + MUSIC SHINDIG

IRISH DANCERS • IRISH-THEMED GAMES & SHENANIGANS • IRISH MUSIC

MARCH 20 SATURDAY FREE ENTRY • FUN STARTS AT 3PM • THE BYRNE BROTHERS LIVE 7-9PM POOL PASSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR $15 PER PERSON 124 KENNY BLVD. HAINES CITY 13 863-588-3097 • BALMORALBARANDGRILL.COM

TAMPA TOP 10 NEW YORK YANKEES SPRING TRAINING

FREE TUESDAY FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

Experience the nocturnal life of Tampa Bay. For the duration of this 2-hour tour, you’ll traverse all 5 zip lines as well as walk the 200foot suspension bridge called the “Flight of the Osprey” bridge by the light of the moon. Reserve your spot in advance, only on select nights in March. Ages 7+ 813-448-5635 zipontampabay.com

The 2021 Grapefruit League schedule is up, however no physical tickets available at the time of print. Select games will be broadcast via the YES Network and MLB.TV. WFAN 660 AM/101.9 FM and WADO 1280 AM (Spanish) will also carry select games. Under a revised GL schedule intended to limit travel, the Yankees will only play exhibition games against the Blue Jays, Orioles, Phillies, and Tigers. www.mlb.com/yankees/

LIGHTS ON TAMPA

TAMPA BAY SCREAMS

TROUBADOUR’S TALE

On the evenings of March 5 & 6, Lights on Tampa will offer self-guided tours of the artwork, and cultural pop-ups around the Tampa Convention Center. Start at the convention center, Sparkman Wharf, or the Riverwalk. You’ll encounter new installations and other significant works of art in downtown.

Lightsontampa.org

March 19 & 20 at the Ramada Westshore in Tampa. This Horror convention celebrates all things horror! Special guests this year include, Mark Patton (A Nightmare on Elm Street 2), Jack Shoulder, director (A Nightmare on Elm Street 2), Joel D. Wynkoop, King of the B Movies, and more.

Purchase your favorite horror products and watch special horror film festival selections from around the world. gatorbladefilms.com/ tampa-bay-screams

March 19-21 on the Straz Riverwalk. Watch Opera Tampa live, outside on the Riverwalk.

This abridged take on Verdi’s Il Trovatore promises blood-andthunder drama soaked in revenge and regret with the hopes of everlasting love. 813-229-7827 Purchase tickets in advance strazcenter.org

DOWNTOWN TAMPA WALKING TOUR

DIGITAL ART COLLECTION Explore over 100 pieces of the Tampa Museum of Art’s permanent collection of art and artifacts with their new searchable object database. Learn about the works and the artists in new detail from the comfort of your home.

Visit tampamuseum.org and you’ll find the Collections Database under the Collections tab. The museum is open, if you’d like to visit in person, register in advance.

havenmagazines.com

MOONLIGHT ZIP LINE

14

Every weekend throughout March at Busch Gardens. Guests will have over 110 items to sample, including 20+ new dishes, 50+ wine, beer, and seltzers, and 20+ refreshing cocktails. Food and beverage samples are not included with park admission and are available for an extra fee. Enjoy live music on the festival stage, must reserve your day at the park in advance. buschgardens.com

The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County proudly presents Free Tuesdays held on the first Tuesday of every month, with Free Glazer Children’s Museum admission from 10am-5pm. Due to the high attendance volume on Free Tuesday, group reservations are not allowed and groups of ten or more will not be permitted entry during Free Tuesday.

Registration is highly encouraged.

813-443-3861 glazermuseum.org/ freetuesdays

VOICES OF THE COMMUNITY

March 20, 10-11:30am at Lykes Gaslight Park. This guided tour highlights the iconic landmarks, characters, and groundbreaking events behind what was once the entire city of Tampa, the first economic hub on Florida’s west coast. Participants will walk a total of one mile along public sidewalks and brick streets. $20 register in advance. 813-228-0097 tampabayhistorycenter.org

March 25, 8pm at The Straz.

Tampa has benefited from the staunch determination and hard work of visionary African American women who raised the bar for all residents. Celebrate these change-makers who advanced civil rights and inspired generations while shaping the city.

Register in advance strazcenter.org

*Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled prior to leaving your house.

CONCERTS UNDER THE STARS March 12th - April 23rd at 7 pm Presented By:

Enjoy amazing music, starlit nights, and the beautiful setting for a truly unique concert experience. The CenterState Bank Concert Under the Stars Series is a co-production of the Lake Wales Arts Council and Bok Tower Gardens.

For your safety and the safety of others face masks must be worn while not seated in the listening area.

All parties must remain at least 6 feet apart from one another.

For more info: ( 8 6 3 ) 6 7 6 - 8 4 2 6 | L a keWa l e s A r t s C o u n c i l . o r g 15

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Brandy Kay Photography

Skinny McGee & his Mayhem Makers Winter Haven’s Shawn Gravitt, aka Skinny McGee, spent his time during quarantine exchanging lyrics between pen and paper, completing songs for a new album. Skinny sat down over a coffee with us, talking tunes and telling band stories.

Mark Hannah on lead guitar, and Chris Bell on rhythm guitar.

Skinny McGee & his Mayhem Makers debuted as a band at rhythm guitarist Chris Bell’s Antemesaris RocknRoll People’s Party.

THE SKINNY ON SKINNY

The band’s music, described as ‘Authentic Florida Rockabilly,’ is steeped in mid-century southern sensibility and a ‘Johnny Cash type’ sound. The music put out by Memphis’s Sun Records was influential to the band. “Offbeat record labels would go and find the original acetates and re-release them,” he said. “So you’ve got a lot of really, really obscure songs and sounds that we could dig into and not step on anyone’s toes. By doing that, we came up and started melding our own authentic Florida Rockabilly sound. [...] Now it’s probably a little bit more country,” he said.

Gravitt’s musical nickname is an homage to Gilligan’s Island.

He can remember watching the show daily. Gilligan had a childhood friend named Skinny Mulligan and another called Fatty McGee; Gravitt meshed the two together for his namesake, Skinny McGee. In 1996, Gravitt and a friend started a band, calling themselves Skinny McGee and the Boxcar Boys, together they put out a 45. “At the time, there was a big Rockabilly scene in Europe,” said Gravitt. One of the band’s songs was picked up by a French magazine called Continental Restyling, published by Jerome Desvaux. “You could send him records, and he would review them,” Gravitt said. “One of our songs on his charts in Europe went to number four.”

Skinny McGee & his Mayhem Makers played countless gigs in Europe and the U.S. and put out two albums, Mint Juleps & Sweet Magnolia (2002) and 99 Years (Give or Take) (2005).

After an eight-year break, the band got back together to play the 30th Antemesaris RocknRoll People’s Party in November of 2019. “With them, it was like putting on a good old pair of blue jeans,” said Gravitt. They played two more gigs following the Antemesaris People’s Party before the pandemic made its way stateside, putting a halt to public gatherings.

The Boxcar Boys dissolved, and Skinny later put together another band in 1998 called Skinny McGee & his Mayhem Makers with Gravitt writing lyrics, on vocals, and upright bass,

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 -

havenmagazines.com

16

17

WRITING AN ALBUM OVER QUARANTINE Gravitt, a hairstylist for 33 years, was shut down for about seven weeks last spring. “About two weeks in, I was like, ‘I’ve got to do something.’ So I started writing,” he said. “It was like somebody opened a spigot – it was song after song after song.”

The bandmates worked together remotely, exchanging recordings to overlay guitar and mix songs.

There wasn’t an express theme to the lyrics Gravitt wrote over his time at home, “but it felt a lot more country,” he said. The country sound is an old friend of the band. Their first full-length album, Mint Juleps & Sweet Magnolia (2002), featured two ‘very country’ tracks. Sweet Magnolia (named for Gravitt’s youngest daughter) was one of those songs accompanied by the metallic twang of steel guitar. “We listened a lot to that because my daughter now is at the age where she can listen to it and get it. She’s musical, so she was really digging it. That, I think, fed into the more country theme,” Skinny said.

“There are two songs that have a bit more meaning than the other songs,” said Gravitt. “They’re dark, and they’re different from what we’ve ever done.”

“The last song on the album is a song about a murder, but it’s seen from the eyes of a black man who didn’t commit the murder. […] The other one is about coal mining and black lung; it’s very old sounding, it sounds 30s, 40s style,” he said.

Writing is the most cathartic aspect of making music for the band’s vocalist and upright bassist. “I love the writing – the creative part of putting things together. You’ve got a bunch of parts and pieces, and you don’t know how they fit together – that’s fun,” he said. “Usually what happens is I’ll catch a line, or I’ll hear somebody say something, and then I’ll wash it over in my brain [...] A lot of times, it starts with a little chorus, and it goes from there.”

Skinny McGee & his Mayhem Makers put out a two-song EP, A New Place to Go, teasing their upcoming 13-song, self-titled album set to be released later this spring or early summer. The trio has been practicing at their private band space, ‘Schmoe Island,’ preparing for their spot at Stringbreak Fest in April.

Skinny McGee & his Mayhem Makers Skinnymcgee.rocks YouTube: Skinny McGee and his Mayhem Makers FB @SkinnyMcGee99 IG @skinny_mcgees_mayhem_makers

havenmagazines.com

18

19

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Simply Red Photography LKLDlense

LKLDlense Capturing her hometown in both spirit and pixels, graphic designer and photographer Emily Mort uses her talents to furnish all the Lakeland feels on what started as an Instagram page, LKLDlense.

Those community connections have helped Mort immortalize quintessential Lakeland through LKLDlense. Her favorite shot is of an electric blue and white Southgate sign illuminating what’s left of a departing burnt orange sunset, mirrored on her car. “I’m having a love affair with this sign right now,” she said. “I’m just obsessed with it.”

Mort hails from Lakeland, born and raised. She has an associate degree in Design and a bachelor’s in Marketing and now works as the Marketing Director at S&D Real Estate, with whom she’s been for five years. Additionally, Mort operates her own design and photography business, which helped pay a sizable portion of her student loan debt. She started the business, freelancing graphic design work including original illustrations, logo and brand design, and advertising for local companies.

Her hometown love stretches beyond the borders of a photograph and into the Lakeland-centric merch on her Etsy page. Her shop, EMortDesign, has swan swag, including shirts and posters with a crown-sporting swan, captioned ‘LKLD Royalty.’

As for the photography piece of her design and photography business, Mort makes herself available to family and friends for wedding, graduation, and event photography. “I honestly have been interested in photography since I was ten years old,” said Mort. She loved animals and wanted to capture them in photographs. She remembers getting her first camera at age ten, which started her love affair with the hobby. Mort thought of it as just that, a hobby, until college. One of her professors dedicated an entire class to photography, and that’s when Mort says she knew it could be something more.

Near and dear to Mort’s heart are her portraits of Lakeland’s royal swans. An amiable quote on her design website reads, “One time the Queen of England gave us some swans, so yeah, we’re a pretty big deal.” That quote is immortalized on prints and shirts available for purchase on Etsy as well.

In May of 2020, Mort created the Instagram account LKLDlense and released her collection of hometown images. “During that time, everyone was so confused. We had no idea what was going to happen. We had no idea what was going on, everything was shut down,” she said. She had seen the struggle local business owners were going through with posts on social media. “I realized that a lot of these small businesses are really hurting during this because they have to be closed.”

“The one thing that I have noticed in my travels… there really isn’t another community that is as strong and as connected as Lakeland. […] It’s so unique, and we have this really big arts scene that’s going right now. To me, it’s just a wonderful place to be creative.”

“Since I grew up in this town, I have heard that fact a thousand times, and I’m like, ‘I get it. We got some swans one time; it’s a big deal, I understand,’” she said good-humoredly of Lakeland’s beloved bevy.

What has LKLDlense meant to the photographer? “For me, it has been an escape. It was a way for me to escape the pandemic in a way – it was a way to force me to go out of my house and capture things that were still beautiful. Yes, the world is horrible in like eleven different ways, but our city is still beautiful,” she said.

She recalls sitting on her back deck one evening, scrolling through her personal Instagram, and realizing just how many Lakeland photos she’d taken. She had enough to start an account all its own. “I wanted this whole Instagram to be about the community. I wanted it to be community-focused,” she said. “I wanted it to be just about how beautiful and strong our community is as a whole.”

Mort admits she didn’t expect LKLDlense to take off like it has, that it was first designed to be a place for all the photos of her hometown to live. Because of the brand’s growing buzz, the designer and photographer plans to expand her Lakeland line on Etsy and put together a Lakeland calendar.

Mort started LKLDlense with the photos she already had and set out to add to the growing collection of Lakeland moments she’d captured. Followers compounded, and with them, Mort’s appreciation for the area. “I, as a person, started experiencing more of the community,” she said. “I think I needed that. I needed to reconnect in my town at that time, specifically since it seemed like everyone was so pulled apart.”

“I hope it turns into this wholesome place where people go to have something positive come up on their feed. There’s so much negativity on social media right now that I wanted to create something beautiful that everyone could be proud of, like ‘That’s my hometown.’”

Using a Canon 90D, Nikon P900, and even her iPhone, Mort captures the essence of Lakeland from its notorious neon signage and royal swans to local businesses and public art.

Whether a flash of inspiration or an intentional shoot, she said, “I’m lucky enough to where, I’ve lived here my whole life, and I know the town layout, and I’m connected with a lot of different people because of this account and because of real estate.”

havenmagazines.com

LKLDlense www.lkldlense.com FB @lkldlense IG @lkldlense Etsy EMortDesign

20

21

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Orange Blossom Poems about them. If that’s a reality, what’s to say that I’m not a poet?” she said.

The sporadic stiletto-sharp clack, clack, clack of an old Sears Citation typewriter summons poem to page. The ink, a shade somewhere between fern and jade, dress up words that feel hand-selected – curated and composed in perfect cadence to a thought, a memory. You’ve just told a stranger something intimate – you feel a bit exposed, but reading this poem, your poem, you know divulging was the right choice. You needed these words – you didn’t know how badly. It is signed – dmah, Orange Blossom Poems.

Her designation felt cemented the first time someone sent her a photo of one of her poems framed at their house. In an age of endless photo collections on digital devices, what we choose to represent ourselves to guests, to remind us of who we are in the form of a framed photo or piece of art, is so very personal. “To know the words that I made, made it onto this place – they’re not in a drawer, they’re not in a book – which still feels like a great honor, and I hope to one day be published – but even in a book you’re not always aired out and always there for consumption.”

When Diana Álvarez-Hughes went off to college, her parents moved to Lakeland from Orlando, where she’d grown up. Other family members followed suit – aunt, uncle, sister. On holidays and breaks from school, Diana would come home to visit her family. “And then suddenly ‘home’ meant Lakeland,” she said. Several years ago, Diana moved here too. She put down roots with her husband, son, and stepsons. “I find that I have an almost romanticized relationship with the town,” she said.

“Because of the community here and the feel and the vibe.”

HER POETRY BLOOMS For much of 2020, Diana was isolated from her parents and extended family while quarantining with her own. She said, “The social distance really got to me, and I was thinking, ‘What can I do? What can I create for the people of Lakeland that will help us have a community in a way that maybe we haven’t had or aren’t having?’” She thought to herself, “I know a lot of words,” she laughed as she said this. “And if I go that way, the words have never let me down, and what’s to say they wouldn’t let the people I’m writing for down?”

Álvarez-Hughes holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Florida State University and a master’s degree in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from Florida Atlantic University.

She is currently in school working toward her Ph.D. in Multicultural Women’s and Gender Studies.

The street poet started Orange Blossom Poems last year, debuting at Lakeland’s Buena Market. “Orange Blossom Poems is basically just myself and the typewriter,” said Álvarez-Hughes.

Its fruition was swift and straightforward and organic – Diana, her words, and a typewriter. “Which is also part of why I called it Orange Blossom Poems. This idea of planting seeds and planting moments that will not only be exciting at the moment but will be fruitful and useful beyond the moment I plant it.”

A LOVE FOR LANGUAGE Her poetic roots spread back to a sixth-grade language arts classroom. “We were reading a story out loud, and there was a line about this woman being so nervous that her teeth were like a pair of dice being shaken in a cup. I remember hearing myself go, ‘Oh, that’s good.’” The teacher asked who had said that, and Diana reluctantly took credit for her comment. “That’s good, that you can tell that’s good,” her teacher told her. At eleven years old, that moment was affirming for Diana. “It became like a door had opened. Like someone had told me, ‘Hey, here’s a way of learning more about yourself.’ Which when you’re in the sixth grade is so powerful.”

Before she joined the market, Diana had wandered over to a Buena Market at Red Door one day. She walked through the market, admiring local vendors’ selection and soaking in the atmosphere of kindness. After following one of the vendors on social media and seeing posts about the market, Diana decided to see if her brand of poetry was something Buena Market was interested in featuring. It was. “Ever since she invited me to come and be a part of it, I have started to feel like I’m part of that community, and I’m part of that group, and I’m part of the Buena Market family,” said Diana. “I would say that they have been integral to this whole process.”

As time carried on, she would find herself at the mercy of beautiful and vivid language. Diana remembers moments like a day at a friend’s house being so captured by a poem that hung on the refrigerator that she stood and read it again and again.

“I remember this line about her lover’s skin being like flaky sweet pastry. […] When I think back on it now, all of these moments are like little lines that I was grabbing, and [they were] staying with me. I feel like that’s what got me into poetry.”

Diana set up shop at her first Buena Market as a vendor with a mix of nerves and excitement rushing through her. The street poet sat at her table, typewriter in tow, and a sign reading, “Your topic. Your poem. Your price.”

Pushing aside that pesky impostor syndrome self-imposed by many creatives, Diana took ownership of her title as a poet when she started Orange Blossom Poems. “I was thinking, who is to say that I’m not if I start there? [...] I write words, and I feel good about them, and I share them with people, and they feel good

havenmagazines.com

“When folks come up, sometimes they have a topic already, and when they don’t, I have guiding questions that I ask them until we find where the heat is, and then that’s the poem that I create

22

She can remember a twelve-year-old girl coming to her with $3 and the attitude not of ‘I only have $3’ but of ‘I would like a poem, and I can even pay you.’ Her payment policy has gifted her moments like this – the opportunity to write for this young girl who might otherwise not have been able to access Diana’s art. That, she said, would not have been fulfilling her original mission.

for them,” she explained. She takes a few notes and then sets to work crafting a personalized poem. From strangers, she typically is only getting the tip of some greater emotional or situational iceberg. Working with these fragments, she creates a gem, forever theirs living, breathing on a small typewritten sheet of paper. Sometimes though, she does get to see the jagged icy bits, the ones facing the seafloor, no sun reaching their frigid depths.

As a poet (and jokingly, part-time therapist), Diana honors those raw memories and emotions shared with her.

“What I hope the poems do beyond my time with them is just to continue to be read, to be seen. Because they were so specific to the moment in time when the person had them created, I hope that they serve as a snapshot, a memory as things go on and their life happens, of this moment and where they were then.”

“It has been really, really humbling, the topics that folks will share,” she said. “There have been many topics that have felt quite intimate.” The poet places herself in their position – sharing these intimacies with a stranger in a public space. “This is obviously very important to them, so let me sit here and allow them to have this space and then use that which is very close to their heart to create something.”

Diana certainly hopes for continued success with her poetry and will eventually travel to other cities with her typewriter. Currently, she’s soaking in the ‘here and now’ of her work – the happiness, the heaviness, all of it.

“I feel blessed that they are willing to [tell me their story] because the same as they are a stranger to me, I am a stranger to them.”

“The most exciting thing has been watching it fruit and ripen and blossom on its own. I am but a vessel of the words, of the memory, of the experience.”

“Your price” was a purposeful move on the poet’s part too. She didn’t start Orange Blossom Poems to make a killing, and so people pay what they think is fair for her art. She said. “It was more to give the people of Lakeland something they maybe needed that they didn’t even know they needed. […] I didn’t want for that to mean that only people who looked a certain way or had a certain amount of money could afford it.”

Orange Blossom Poems FB: Orange Blossom Poems IG @orangeblossompoems

23

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Rogue’ s Relics Themes of history, science, and nature are threaded throughout the pieces of Polk County-based jewelry company, Rogue’s Relics. From rat skulls to snake skeletons, sixth-grade science teacher Kortlyn Dougherty uses a process called electroforming to repurpose the beauty of nature. You could say her pieces are dead things turned beautiful jewelry.

Friends encouraged her to sell her jewelry, and in late 2019, early 2020, Dougherty started an Etsy shop called Rogue’s Relics where she would sell wire-wrapped stones, earrings, bracelets, pendants, and the like. When COVID-19 made its way to the states early last year, Dougherty, working as a retail manager, was furloughed from her job. She needed something to fill her time and maintain a positive mindset during the uncertainty.

Dougherty’s father was influential in the interests that guide her jewelry design. “He’s always loved nature, always drew me to nature. […] We had a telescope when I was little, and we would take our telescope in the backyard and go stargazing,” she said. Dougherty loves animals too. “My sister wants to be a vet when she grows up, so we’ve always had a ton of animals in the house.”

On social media, she stumbled upon what appeared to be soldered copper. She began researching it to learn how to solder, and during her research, she came across some pieces that caught her attention. “I specifically remember seeing a cicada and a butterfly that were coated in copper. I thought it was just molded, that they had poured copper in a mold.” She discovered it was a tangible object with copper grown on it, a look achieved through electroforming. After ‘diving down the rabbit hole,’ she began collecting supplies and learning more about the process.

“Thank goodness for the internet,” she said.

As a child, Kortlyn would catch lizards, keep them as pets, feed them bugs from outside, and make ‘little fairy houses’ in her yard.

When her dad accidentally ran over a ‘pet’ frog in the driveway, Kortlyn wouldn’t let her parents touch her beloved dead pet – she didn’t want him to go away, she said. When the frog corpse disappeared from the driveway, she was devastated, and her parents had to dig through the trash to find its body so that they could give it a proper burial. “I always wanted to help animals in some way, […] Now I guess I help them be something beautiful in their afterlife.”

“I taught myself,” said Dougherty of electroforming. “I created the paint – it’s a conductive paint that I use which allows electricity to flow through it. I ended up making the solution as well. There’s a solution that you have to put the objects in with the paint on them, and the solution also allows electricity to flow through it.”

Dougherty’s father also sparked her interest in science. “He taught me about molecules when I could barely even say a sentence,” she said, noting that he always did his best to instill a wonderment of Mother Nature. Her love of the subject continued throughout school. “I remember in seventh grade, we dissected an owl pellet and put together rodent bones from this owl pellet.

I thought that was so cool,” she said. Dougherty even took a middle school science class in the room she teaches in now.

She started her electroforming experiment in a small mason jar with 12-gauge copper wire. Sulfuric acid is also needed for the electroforming process. She laughed, describing the odd looks thrown her way when she made trips to the hardware store to check ingredients off her list, including copper pipe and sulfuric acid. “They’re looking at me like ‘What is she creating? This chick is insane.’”

Dougherty has been making jewelry as a hobby since childhood.

She would string together bits and bobs made of plastic beads and anything else she could find at a craft store. All of these interests converged during a difficult time for both the world and Kortlyn personally. A family emergency and a job furlough turned out to be catalysts for Rogue’s Relics and another dream – her teaching career.

“I was doing the wire first. It was okay; I wasn’t totally failing.

There’s a lot of components because you’re running an electrical current through this solution. […] You have to get the PH balance right, you have to get the conductivity of the paint right, the acid levels – it’s pretty intense. And I used a lot of trial and error.” Dougherty has upgraded to an eight-gallon tank and found the copper pipe, as opposed to wire, is best for her jewelry-making purposes. The process is time-consuming, with items spending roughly 80 to 90 hours in the solution to deposit a thick coating on her creatures and foliage.

LEARNING TO ELECTROFORM Kortlyn had been dabbling in wire-wrapping for some time, finding inspiration and ideas online. In 2019, her father had two strokes. He was in the hospital for months, and she would stay with him often as he recovered. “I needed something to keep my mind busy,” she said. Dougherty would bring her wire-wrapping supplies to the hospital and started building up an inventory of jewelry. “I was making things to get my mind busy and focus my energy on something productive.”

After the process is complete, she gives them an antique flourish, using Liver of Sulfer to darken the unsealed raw copper. She neutralizes the solution with baking soda to stop the antiquing process and polishes the pieces with steel wool, a Dremel, and a polishing cloth.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 -

havenmagazines.com

24

25

The process, distinct and captivating in its own right, produces pieces of the same nature. Rogue’s Relics boasts one-of-a-kind jewelry and decor made with everything from snake, frog, and lizard skeletons, to rat skulls, ginkgo leaves, oak leaves, dragonflies, and butterflies. The resourceful jewelry maker finds expired subjects for her jewelry and even has her friends, students, dad, and boyfriend bringing her creepies and crawlies.

“I’m not ashamed to ask for dead things,” she said. Though she hasn’t done it yet, she has seen some appealing roadkill. “I haven’t – but it might come to that,” she laughed.

subject that might appeal to female students. “I’m creating something that’s very feminine, but I’m using a very scientific way of doing it. […] I love being a teacher because I can show my kids that science is way more than just surface level,” she said.

TAKE A LEAP “It is an outlet for my creativity,” Kortlyn Dougherty said of Rogue’s Relics. “Now that I’m a teacher, I have my evenings off, and I have my weekends off, so I’m able to now dedicate that to something that makes me feel whole. [...] It kind of started and gained ground with me releasing my anxiety and fears and restlessness into my pieces to create something beautiful.”

Dougherty has two dogs, one of which, Rogue, is her electroformed jewelry business’s namesake. “He’s the light of my life,” she said of the miniature Australian shepherd. She even brings Rogue to the Winter Haven Farmers Market on occasion.

“He’s the face of my brand.”

Dougherty hopes her jewelry pieces are conversational. Made with natural items from stones and foliage to creatures and copper, Dougherty said, “I hope it connects them to that natural aspect and brings a little joy and nature to their outfit.”

Rogue’s Relics is on Etsy and at the Winter Haven Farmers Market every Saturday. “I’ve always wanted to be at a market,” she said. Farmers markets, antique shows, and flea markets are her ‘jam,’ her favorite weekend activity. “I meet the coolest people – especially in Winter Haven, and that’s why I love that market so much because I see the same people often. I love seeing them, and I love hearing their stories.”

“Every piece already has a home it’s destined for. The person just has to find it,” she said. Joining her inventory of copper-coated jewelry, Dougherty has experimented with resin and shadow boxes. She is working on more décor pieces like macrame with copper-coated animal bones. “I’m going to continue to grow and expand and do what makes me happy. I feel like if it brings me joy, I’m winning,” she said.

USING HER ART TO TEACH SCIENCE Over the last year, Dougherty, who has a degree in History from USF, became a teacher. “I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was in kindergarten. I took the leap, and I love it,” she said. She now teaches sixth-grade science and even uses electroforming to teach lessons about basic chemistry and conductivity.

Reflecting on the trials of the last year, the rise of Rogue’s Relics, and her foray into teaching, Kortlyn encourages others to follow their dreams, saying, “I think at the end of the day, the biggest takeaway from this whole journey is just do it. Just take a leap.”

Etsy: RoguesRelicsJewelry FB @roguesrelicsjewelry IG @roguesrelicsjewelry Tiktok @roguesrelics

Using electroforming in her class introduction, Dougherty wanted to engage her students – especially her female students.

With STEM fields being overwhelmingly male-dominated, the science teacher wanted to show practical applications for her

havenmagazines.com

26

Executive Suites Now Available

These executive office suites are the perfect hub for your small business or branch location. Starting at just $550.00/month, you’ll be able to establish a professional presence with a private office and access to building amenities including: a conference room, kitchen/breakroom, ADA restrooms, and a mail center. Rent includes all utilities, including high-speed WiFi!!!

Contact - Meghan Young for details 863-354-5017 // myoung@sixtenllc.com 27

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Buena Market As she looked to start a brick-and-mortar market featuring products by local vendors, Stephanie Gregg’s plans took a turn.

Last year, many of us learned to be flexible under pressure and adapt in the face of uncertainty. How Buena Market evolved wasn’t expected, but it was what Gregg needed in a way – fostering a community connection, not only for herself but also makers, chefs, and artists around Lakeland.

leaders. She appreciated that Lakeland was of the size that she could enjoy a restaurant, want to meet and talk with the owners, and make that happen. She wanted to build those relationships because, “I was a customer, I was a fan, I was excited to try new things and see what was out there. A lot of those connections happened organically.” When it came time to ask if they could use space, places like Cob & Pen and Red Door welcomed Buena Market.

Stephanie and her husband Steven moved to Lakeland from Austin, Texas, three years ago. Steven grew up here, his family is here, and the couple visited Lakeland periodically over their time together. Though it was different from the big city she was used to, Stephanie welcomed the move. In Austin, she worked in urban real estate sales and management, immersing herself in the community. “I was really engaged in the downtown scene – food culture and lifestyle. Being in real estate, I felt more than I was a realtor; I was a tour guide, showing people what their life could look like if they lived there,” she said. “It was important to me to be involved in the community.”

After the first few markets, with her husband’s help and a core group of creative friends, Gregg “had a growing roster of other small businesses” in which she was interested. These included vendors who had attended a night market she hosted with the Lakeland Women’s Collective in early 2020. She began searching for other vendors to curate the market’s offerings.

“I value the creative energy that’s here,” said Gregg. “I feel like not everybody gets a fair chance. Obviously, there are so many issues that affect us, whether that be race or gender, or orientation. […] I wanted to create something that looked different than what I’d seen around me. […] Coming from a place like Austin, I got to see such a diverse community and be part of it. […] I wanted to build that here.”

When the Greggs moved to Polk County, Stephanie wanted to start a business of her own. She began educating herself, found advisors, and joined Catapult. “It ended up being really good for me. […] It was a good opportunity to meet people that were interested in my ideas and wanted to help me develop them.”

Buena Market has become a collective of vendors offering locally-made food and drink, art, jewelry, poetry, decor, and more. Media collaborative, werlostboys (werlostboys.com) works as Buena’s photo and video team, capturing the market’s magic. Additionally, Gregg and her collaborators have begun hosting a series of dinners. Gregg teamed up with Gabriella Vigoreaux of Vicky G’s in October 2019 for a pop-up dinner.

“We put together this beautiful dinner party in our friend’s backyard,” she said. Around 25 guests turned up for a beautiful evening of food and community.

She spent over a year writing a business plan and narrowing in on a concrete concept, deciding that it would take the form of a brick-and-mortar store. Knowing she wanted it to involve food and beverage, Stephanie saw a gap in the local market. She wanted a brick-and-mortar market, offering specialty goods from makers around the community all in one place.

PORCH POP-UP TURNED POPULAR MARKET As she neared the time to find a space and go after funding to make her idea happen, the pandemic swept through and ‘deconstructed’ it entirely. Stephanie had a few part-time jobs that she couldn’t work anymore and racked her brain for how to make this work. She met Drew Williams of 16.92 Coffee Matcha Bar. He was a connoisseur of coffee enthusiastic about his trade, and coffee was something she wanted to be a part of the eventual business.

Gregg hosted a dinner at their holiday market last year with Vicky G’s and Casita Verde. The group had such a blast they wanted to continue doing them. “I think we’re going to do a monthly pop-up dinner,” she said. “I love the pop-up dinners because it gives them an opportunity to flex those chef muscles and get creative and work together.” The dinners are held in much the same way the markets are, says Gregg, popping up in spaces around town with different themes. Buena Market is currently held twice a month and the dinners once a month.

Information about each market and tickets for the dinners are available on their website and social media.

“I thought, ‘Why not do a pop-up on my front porch?’”

Stephanie invited Williams and a group of her most creative friends to set up shop on her porch for a pop-up market last July. She put the word out to friends and the growing following she had for Buena Market online, letting them know about the outdoor, socially distant, mask-required event. It was her birthday weekend, and Stephanie was thrilled to have some 40 friends and strangers come through the market.

“There are so many talented people in this community, and they’re contributing something really special to Buena Market.

I’m just creating space for them to do their thing,” she said. “I feel like they’re all taking a chance on me as much as I am them.”

HONORING HER GRANDMOTHERS

A few pop-ups later, Buena Market had outgrown Stephanie’s front porch. She reached out to community business owners to use their space. Before the pandemic and her pop-ups, Stephanie dug into the community as she’d done in Austin – meeting other business owners, creatives, and community

This sentiment of creating space and lifting others is almost hardwired into Stephanie Gregg. She is a purveyor of community because her grandmothers were before her. The title ‘Buena’ is a combination of the names she used to refer to her maternal and paternal grandmothers – Abuela, her dad’s mother, Juliana - CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 -

havenmagazines.com

28

29

The pop-up markets allowed Gregg the chance to dive into what it is she wanted. “Even though it was really sad for me to put the brick-and-mortar plans on the back burner, I’m still fulfilling what I wanted to fulfill with that business. The whole purpose of that was to find people in the community that were making cool things, and that deserved an audience, deserved support, deserved a way to sustain themselves – I’m still getting an opportunity to do that.”

Gamboa Bernal and Nana, her mom’s mother, Emma Morales Montez. Both women have since passed, but not before they could leave seismic impressions in their communities.

“They were really engaged in their community – they were very beloved in their communities. I didn’t realize that so much growing up until after they passed,” said Stephanie. At her Abuela’s funeral in a small west Texas town, surrounded by ranches and dirt roads, a community spilled into a church to celebrate the matriarch. “It was packed to the brim with people that I didn’t know,” she said. Many were from her large family, others from the community. “I remember so many people being devastated that we lost her and so excited to celebrate her life.”

She hopes it has provided the same sense of connectedness for Buena Market’s vendors. Many of them had their customers taken away, their means of making a living swept out from under them last year. Gregg hopes the market is an encouraging force, a way to let these creative souls know people still care about the products they make and pour themselves into. “I hope it’s given them a way forward,” she said.

It was not the vanity of being so beloved that appealed to Gregg but rather the impact her grandmothers had on others. “She fed them. She poured into their lives. They didn’t have much, but she gave what she could.”

She hopes to one day provide more ‘supportive resources’ for her vendors – whether that be the chance to invest in their business, or help with their branding or website. Gregg looks to build a network of advisors and develop workshops for the vendors to help them in their journey for growth. “I would love to collaborate with other businesses and find ways to support other businesses in the community,” she added. “That’s part of the beauty of it. If you give us your space to work with, we hope to bring you some new customers.”

Her Nana, too, always volunteered and gave back. “It was important to her to be part of her community in a real way,” said Gregg. “I grew up appreciating that.” Even throughout her childhood, Stephanie would take her grandmothers’ lead and jump at the opportunity to volunteer during her summers. “It became important to me to honor them and carry on that legacy of doing what you can to uplift your community,” she said.

A Buena brick-and-mortar isn’t out of the question, only ‘on the back burner’ for now. Open to change, Gregg said her original idea might develop differently than she thought, and “I’m open to that,” she said.

PEELING BACK THE LAYERS “It’s been a silver lining for me,” Gregg said of the pop-up markets. “It’s given me a sense of purpose, a sense of belonging and connectedness.”

Stephanie Gregg wants Buena Market to be an accessible avenue for people. “Business endeavors aren’t as accessible for everyone, and they should be. I think if we have a good idea and a good plan, nothing should get in the way,” she said. “I’m hoping to remove some of those barriers even if it just means empowering other people.”

“It’s been such a hard year. [...] My husband and I both made a lot of sacrifices, and the things that just got taken away from us because of COVID – the comforts of a life we once knew are no longer there. For both of us, this has been something to have an opportunity to focus on. […] It’s something that really matters,” she said. “I think COVID took away so much of the meaningless distractions that a lot of us were probably caught up in, and I feel like it peeled back layers that needed to be peeled back. Not just COVID, but everything socially that’s happened over the past year.”

havenmagazines.com

Buena Market www.buenamarket.com FB @buenamarket IG @buenamarket

30

31

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

So Very Ax-citing There’s nothing like a strong cup of coffee to keep you sharp in the morning, well that and maybe an airborne axe or two.

Joyce and Kraig Woodrow opened Ax-Caliber Axe Venue and Coffee House, the first of its kind for Polk County, in downtown Lakeland last fall. The pandemic presented challenges, but Joyce says they’ve been ‘blessed’ in their venture despite them all. “We’re both entrepreneurs. We always have been,” said Joyce. She hails from South Florida, Kraig from New Jersey. They moved to Polk County in 1999.

Kraig is a software engineer, and Joyce has been running her own fitness company, Fit for Life Ministries, for about ten years.

“We have been blessed beyond words,” she said. “We’ve had some ups and downs. There have been a lot of learning curves during this time with COVID.” Joyce and the team are taking those learning curves in stride, doing all they can to keep staff and guests safe by implementing a mask policy for their employees and keeping the establishment sanitized.

Everything was different than it might have been, had they opened any other year – staff capacity, hours of operation, even menu size.

The Ax-Caliber motto is ‘Coffee of a higher caliber.’ Joyce said, “We wanted to make sure whatever we brought to Lakeland or Polk County was also of a higher caliber. When you visit Ax-Caliber, everything from the beginning when you walk into the door, to the time you order your food, what you taste, what you drink, and how you play – we also want to make sure it’s of a higher caliber and that you leave here feeling that you were really taken care of.”

“We started the coffee business about four and a half years ago,” she said. “Everybody in our family loves to drink coffee.” Every Saturday morning, the Woodrow’s would go on a coffee date to Starbucks. Joyce said, “I remember sitting there one day saying to my husband, ‘We need to have our own coffee company.’”

FOOD AND DRINK

For some time, the family had desires to open an indoor gun range and coffeehouse. They dubbed their coffee brand, Caliber. “All of our blends are based on the strength of the caliber,” she said. “We found a local roaster here in Lakeland […]. We told them how we wanted our coffee to taste and that we wanted it to be organic with no chemicals, all water washed. They were able to accommodate us. [...]

They designed blends based on our palate.”

In addition to their full café menu of Caliber Coffee drinks prepared by trained baristas, Ax-Caliber serves beer, wine, and a full axe pun-laden menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

If you’re looking for a pick-me-up and calm-me-down all wrapped in one drink, check out their coffee lager– 300 Damn Kids, brewed by The Florida Brewery. The name comes from the 300 Blackout Coffee it’s made with and an affectionate reference to their kids, an inside joke amongst the Woodrow family.

Their blends – from free-trade farms around the world – include a selection of bullet-themed names like their 22 Cal Decaf, 9mm Breakfast Blend, 45 Cal Medium Smooth, 357 Magnum Dark, and Kraig’s favorite, the 300 Blackout Extra Dark. Until they opened Ax-Caliber, Caliber Coffee Company was exclusively online. “We wanted to open something up that was going to be fun for Polk County for people to come to.” The gun range concept shifted into an axe throwing venue and coffeehouse.

“When our kids come over, and they eat us out of house and home, my husband always looks in the refrigerator and goes, ‘Those damn kids ate all my food.’ He’s always joking with them all the time like, ‘Here come those damn kids again.’ We love, love, love our kids and grandkids, and it’s a big joke in the house. They even write on their cards sometimes, ‘Love, your damn kids.’”

Ax-Caliber opened in late November, with their grand opening on December 4, 2020. “It was quite a challenge,” Joyce said, looking back on the journey. When they signed the contract for their building, COVID-19 wasn’t at the forefront of public attention in the states yet. A month or two later, everything changed. Kraig was furloughed, and Joyce left her company for six months. Holding their breath, the pair carried on with their plans to open the downtown axe throwing venue. “It was this uncertainty and not knowing what was going to happen,” she said. The Woodrow’s hit a snag when ordering supplies to furnish and stock Ax-Caliber, with shipments being continuously pushed back due to the virus. They initially intended to open in August, but supplies weren’t coming. “You can’t open a restaurant without equipment, and you can’t open anything without furniture,” she said.

‘Fresh’ and ‘tasty’ are words Woodrow used to describe the items on Ax-Caliber’s curated menu. The team prides itself on their food – making many of their dips, sauces, pastries, quiche, and other goods like turkey pot pie made with their turkey cooked in-house. Guests can enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches, and shareables down to a little something for your sweet tooth.

A SHARP ATMOSPHERE Home away from home is the vibe the Ax-Caliber owners were shooting (or should I say axe throwing) for, and Joyce’s interior design hit the bullseye. “When I designed it, I wanted it to feel industrial but not hard. I wanted it to feel just like if you were to go home and enjoy a nice drink or sit and listen to some music, and I wanted it to feel comfortable.”

“Finally, things started falling into place, but it wasn’t until November. […] We just prayed a lot and asked God to continue to keep those doors open, and whatever was going to happen was going to happen. We decided on November 20 that we were going to go for it.”

Joyce envisioned a space for everyone – an atmosphere that welcomed couples and college students, professionals, and people from all walks of life. She chose a mix of materials - CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 -

havenmagazines.com

32

33

to achieve the cozy industrial look. Materials like leather and cloth, wood, iron, steel, and stone, work in tandem, radiating a welcoming warmth to customers.

Scorecards are available, as well as different games to play throughout your session. “We are working on a scoring system right now that will be up on the tv screen,” said Joyce.

You can order food and drinks before you start throwing or ask your Ax-pert to have someone take your order. You can enjoy your meal right there in the pit.

From the dreamy lighting and comfy couches to table games, televisions, and pool tables, Ax-Caliber can be a place for camaraderie or a quiet cup of coffee and a book.

Running an axe throwing venue means plenty of maintenance. “We have a sawmill where we make all our targets,” said Joyce. They also sharpen the axes and change out handles regularly.

GETTING THE AXE Lakelanders and lumberjacks can walk in to enjoy a onehour axe throwing session or reserve two hours ahead of time. Guests are greeted at the axe check-in area, where they sign a waiver (which can be done on your phone by scanning a QR code) and assigned a personal Ax-pert and pit.

“It’s very empowering, [...] You come in and think, ‘I can’t do this. There’s no way I can do this.’ And then you stick the axe in the wood,” she said. Exhilaration is par for the course with throwing axes. “If you’re not yelling, then you’re not having fun.”

The venue, which is an official venue of the World Axe Throwing League, has seven pits made up of two lanes each, for a total of 14 lanes. Because of the pandemic, guests may sometimes have to wait for an axe throwing session as safety guidelines don’t allow for shared pits beyond your group. At your pit, your Ax-pert will explain safety guidelines, answer questions, and demonstrate how to throw. “They want to make sure that you have a great time and that you stay safe doing it,” said Joyce.

The Woodrows seem to be succeeding in their mission to bring something new and fun to the county. About AxCaliber’s customers, Joyce said, “When they walk through our doors, it’s their house. It’s our house to them, and we welcome them as our family.”

Ax-Caliber Axe Venue and Coffee House 204 E Orange St #102, Lakeland axcaliber.com 863-592-3500 FB @axcaliber IG @axcaliber

Closed toes shoes are mandatory to participate. No worries if you show up in a pair of flip-flops, Ax-Caliber offers pink Crocs (yes, even for you manly men) and disposable socks.

havenmagazines.com

34

35

the last word Serves 1

¾ ounce gin ¾ ounce Green Chartreuse ¾ ounce Maraschino Liqueur ¾ ounce fresh lime juice In a cocktail shaker with ice, add all ingredients and shake for at least 30 seconds. Strain cocktail into a chilled coupe glass, garnish with cherry.

Ages 21+ please drink responsibly.

36

Compiled by the staff of the Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland

Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Ave, Lakeland lakelandgov.net

Check Me Out ;) HAPPINESS BECOMES YOU: A GUIDE TO CHANGING YOUR LIFE FOR GOOD

By Tina Turner Tina Turner’s been through some things. In this book, she reveals how Buddhism has helped her find happiness, and how others can overcome challenges and find peace.

AN ABSOLUTELY REMARKABLE THING

By Hank Green An adventurous romp through social-media celebrity, that explores how media and popular opinion shape our world. Plus, there are giant robots.

SOLUTIONS AND OTHER PROBLEMS

By Allie Brosh

A MAN CALLED OVE

By Fredrik Backman

Author and illustrator of the awardwinning webcomic Hyperbole and a Half gives us a relatable and humorous comic memoir that reminds us that it’s okay to not be okay.

A sweet, funny story of love and connection, that shows us how much richer life can be when we turn toward each other instead of away.

BETTER, NOT PERFECT: A REALIST’S GUIDE TO MAXIMUM SUSTAINABLE GOODNESS

By Max Bazerman

LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET

By Matt de la Pena, illustrated by Christian Robinson CJ rides the bus with his grandma and wonders why they don’t have the things others have. His grandma shows him the beauty and richness of a life filled with love.

This practical guide offers usable advice on how to think more positively and, in turn, create positive impacts for society.

An encouraging take on selfimprovement.

37

THE ALCHEMIST

By Paulo Coelho This simple but eloquent parable about becoming self-empowered, overcoming depression, and believing in dreams is the bedtime story we all need right now.

DON’T STOP

By Christine McVie and illustrated

by Nusha Ashjaee A charmingly illustrated picture book based on Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac’s enduring anthem to optimism and patience celebrates keeping one’s chin up and rolling with life’s punches.

LAKELAND’S NATIONAL CHAMPION SOCCER TEAM After a strong start to the 2021 MASL Season, the Florida Tropics, based out of Lakeland, are carrying a strong winning record of 8-3. Following the last two seasons naming the Tropics 2019-20 MASL Eastern Conference Champions and 2019 UPSL National Champions, the club is hopeful to take another title this season.

The Tropics will play out two more games on the road in March before entering the playoff scene at the end of the month. Around the same time, prep for the UPSL Outdoor Season will begin, starting with open tryouts being held on February 28th.

Last year, the Tropics UPSL team played out an impressive season that wrapped up in early December before they made the transition to the turf of the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. The team hopes to pick up where they left off and continue their winning legacy in the upcoming UPSL Season!

For ticket info and other team updates, give us a follow at our Facebook page or visit our web site!

fb.com/FLTropics fltropics.com

havenmagazines.com

38

MARCH CALENDAR 2021 *Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled.

AFTER SCHOOL ART: AT HOME EDITION When: Mar. 01, 2021 PolkMuseumofArt.org/After-School Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easy-tofollow video instruction. March 1 — Hanging String Art. Members, $10. Non-Members, $15.

CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Mar. 01, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Craft Beer & Bingo starts at 7pm, free to play with beer & gift card prizes every Monday. Open 11am-9pm.

TOULOUSE-LAUTREC & THE BELLE EPOQUE When: Mar. 02 - May 23, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org A master painter, printer, and illustrator, ToulouseLautrec saw no line between fine and commercial art. Toulouse-Lautrec created the timeless scenes of France’s cabarets, concert halls, and theaters.

Schedule your visit online. 863-688-7743 HARRISON SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS SENIOR SHOWCASE When: Mar. 02 - 21, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Harrison School for the Arts annual showcase presents the work of graduating seniors from the visual arts department. Schedule your visit online.

863-688-7743 “QUEST: PIERRE AND CATHY DUTERTRE” When: Mar. 02 - 28, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland PolkMuseumofArt.org/Quest For the past decade, in addition to working as solo artists, Pierre and Cathy Dutertre have

are a MUST by Friday, February 26th. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries www.stonecroft.org

created compelling artwork as a photographic duo, integrating their individual and collective experiences into a thought-provoking and moving body of work like that which forms the centerpiece of this exhibition. Schedule your visit online.

863-688-7743

VIRTUAL EVENT: SUPER FOODS FROM YOUR GARDEN When: Mar. 03, 2021 | 12-1 p.m. boktowergardens.org Learn about healthy plants that are good for you and easy to grow in your central Florida garden.

We will discover growing tips for these plants and ways to prepare them for maximum health benefits. Free for Members/$10 for Non-members.

Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you, register online.

TACO TUESDAY When: Mar. 02, 2021 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Taco Tuesday - 3 for $5 at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. With over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps to try a beer or take home a growler. Open 11am 9pm on Tuesdays.

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL When: Mar. 04, 2021 | 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Where: Strawberry Festival, 2209 W Oak Ave, Plant City. flstrawberryfestival.com 11 full days of strawberries, shortcake, concerts, rides, stage shows, attractions, food, exhibits, displays, contests, competitions, and fun for the whole family.

MAYOR’S BREAKFAST When: Mar. 03, 2021 | 7-8:55 a.m.

Where: Sun ‘n Fun

4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland secure.qgiv.com/for/maybre This year, Central Florida’s Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing Director, Mark Jackson will share insights into Polk County tourism and the impact of COVID-19 on local tourism. Proceeds from SUN ‘n FUN’s annual event provides educational support to the aerospace industry.

Masks are required.Breakfast will be provided by Frescos. Register online, in advance.

BOOK BABIES (AGES 18MO - 2YRS) When: Mar. 04, 2021 | 10-10:30 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park, across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

CREATING COMMUNITY THROUGH QUILTS & ART When: Mar. 03 - May 15, 2021 Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center, 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales cityoflakewales.com/774/Exhibits The Lake Wales History Museum will display its permanent collection of historical and modern quilts and artwork. The act of making quilts, displaying them in the museum, and showcasing local places of Lake Wales in artwork was a traditional way the Lake Wales History Museum connected with the community. Open Wed-Sat, 10 am -5 pm. 863-678-4182

UNION TAPROOM’S NIGHT MARKET When: Mar. 04, 2021 | 6-9 p.m.

Where: Union Taproom, 245 West Central Avenue, Winter Haven On the 1st Thursday of the month featuring rotating list of local artists and makers selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, candles, clothing, gifts and so much more.

TRIVIA NIGHT When: Mar. 04, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Thursday Live Trivia - Starts at 7. Signup at 6:30pm, top 3 teams win prizes.

Open 11am - 9pm.

STORY TIME (AGES 3-5) When: Mar. 03, 2021 | 10-10:45 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

AVENUE Q When: Mar. 04 - 14, 2021 Where: Theatre Winter Haven, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com Winner of the Tony “Triple Crown” for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. The laughout-loud musical tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton, who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. Together, Princeton and his newfound friends struggle to find jobs, dates and their ever-elusive purpose in life. Days & times vary.

863-294-7469

LAKELAND SOUTH CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONNECTION When: Mar. 03, 2021 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Cleveland Heights Golf Course, 2900 Buckingham Avenue, Lakeland All ladies welcome. Feature and Speaker is Becky Burgue: The Letter that Changed my Life. Special feature: Restoring the art of the handwritten letter. Cost: $22 inclusive. Reservations: Email mayersman@tampabay.rr.com or call Marty at 863-425-1390. Reservations and Cancellations

Questions about MEDICARE? I can help!

Call your licensed CarePlus sales agent TODAY! From October 1 - March 31, we are open 7 days a week, 8 a.m.to 8 p.m.FromApril 1 - September 30,we are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may always leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day.

Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system.

H1019_MKBNN1G2020_C

HIP HOP YOGA WITH PRIMA When: Mar. 05, 2021 | 6-7:15 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Hip-hop originated from the Bronx as a cry from disenfranchised Black communities and beyond.

Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice. Both are now mainstream beyond their origins and have become valuable tools for people to utilize in the self-care/expression world! Register in advance.

863-224-2311.

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of farmers, food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce.

Live music is back! Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building every Saturday.

HEART CENTERED YOGA & MINDFUL MEDITATION When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 9-10:15 a.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org The class format includes a slow, “heartFULL” yoga practice with time for relaxation, reflection, and gentle movements followed by a calming and nurturing meditation. All levels are welcome and encouraged to take this opportunity to be present and peaceful even in these uncertain times.Free for members/$15 for Non-members. Purchase tickets online, at the Visitor Center or by phone at 863-734-1222.

PLEIN AIR QUICK DRAW EVENT When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 9-11 a.m.

Where: Main Street Bartow

180 S Central Ave, Bartow bartowartguild.com This event is open to all artists 18 years of age or older. Details online. Registration tent will be located at the Bartow Art Guild (next to information booth) on the corner of Main and Central. On site registration 8-9am day of the event.

VIRTUAL FOSTER CARE CLASS (WEEKENDS) When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org Are you interested in learning what it takes to become a foster caregiver and provide a safe & loving home for children in your community?

Every Saturday for 3 weeks. To register, you must complete the following steps:1. Call (863)-5198900 x 2892. Complete a short interview over the phone to determine eligibility for the program. 3.

Watch our Foster Care Info Session video: https:// youtu.be/Bn65oEI416M

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 40 -

Present this ad and your passenger gets in FREE!

Sylvia Velez

813-240-4252 (TTY: 711) SVelez1@careplus-hp.com

TO SEE WHAT’S PLAYING:

SilverMoonDriveIn.com 4100 US 92 W • Lakeland

39

AND Swap Shop every Sat. and Sun.

Limit 1 per car. Not valid with any other offer.

NATURE ADVENTURERS: ANIMAL TRACKING When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 10-11 a.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Families will learn alongside each other, to open up the natural world for your child, making it fun and meaningful. There will be short guided lessons for each topic, with mindfulness and nature education topics. Then families go out into the Gardens to practice the topic for the day. Free for Members/$15 per family for Non-members.

Purchase tickets online, at the Visitor Center or by phone at 863-734-1222.

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Space is limited, register in advance. Bring your own mat & equipment. $20 InvestmentJoin Cosmic Sound Healer, Buffy La Roux as she facilitates a high vibratory journey of Sound through time and space. 863-224-2311.

OAK HILL CEMETERY TOUR When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 11 a.m.

Where: Polk County History Center

100 E Main St, Bartow polk-county.net/history-center/education Learn about historic Oak Hill Cemetery and those interred here. The tour starts at the History Center with a short one-mile walk that includes historic landmarks along the route. The cemetery ground is uneven and visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear.Groups may request a reservation prior to the tour.Walk-ins welcome.

(863) 534-4381

out. Advance purchase guarantees you will receive the package. All brunch items are packaged “to go” and purchasers may enjoy their meal on the Blue Palmetto Cafe terrace or anywhere in the Gardens. 863-676-1408

CHILI ON THE RIDGE When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Lake Eva Park, 555 Ledwith Ave., Haines City hainescityrotary.com/ Haines City Rotary is having its annual Chili Cook Off and Car Show. There will be a live band, food vendors(not just chili), beer tent and dessert vendors. Public can buy a $10/person ticket to taste the chili from all the chili teams. This event will have COVID precautions in place.

CRAFT + KITCHEN SUNDAY SPECIAL When: Mar. 07, 2021 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Enjoy $1 off drafts & $5 dinner franks at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. Open 11am9pm on Sundays.

CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI SHOW When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 3:30 p.m.

Where: MLK Jr. Park, 199 E Lake Silver Dr. NE, Winter Haven A FREE family-friendly ski show! Concessions available for purchase. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. On the 1st and 3rd Saturdays in Feb, March & April.

AFTER SCHOOL ART: AT HOME EDITION When: Mar. 08, 2021 PolkMuseumofArt.org/After-School Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easyto-follow video instruction. March 8 — Playing with Water. Cost per project: Members, $10.

Non-Members, $15.

ART AFTER DARK When: Mar. 06, 2021 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales centralfloridatix.com Enjoy free craft beer from Grove Roots, great jazz, and all of the beautiful artwork of David Price and Jeff Ripple. Food will be available for purchase.

Art After Dark parties are age 21 and up events.

Tickets are $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Book your tickets today, space for this event is limited.

CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Mar. 08, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Craft Beer & Bingo starts at 7pm, free to play with beer & gift card prizes every Monday. Open 11am-9pm.

STORY TIME (AGES 3-5) When: Mar. 10, 2021 | 10-10:45 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

SPRING BLOOM BRUNCH IN A BAG When: Mar. 07, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org $15, plus tax, per person. Members receive 10% discount. General admission for non-members required and not included in the brunch price. The number of brunch packages is limited and may sell

BOOK BABIES (AGES 18MO - 2YRS) When: Mar. 11, 2021 | 10-10:30 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park, across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

VIRTUAL EVENT: ESTATE PLANNING GREENHOUSE: BE THE CAPTAIN OF YOUR FINANCIAL SHIP When: Mar. 11, 2021 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. boktowergardens.org All Adults need to know key details about their financial lives — especially if they do not handle the day-to-day details. Join us for a virtual session to learn what you need to know and how to prepare to take the wheel of your financial ship when the time comes. Free for all attendees, Requires advance reservation. Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you. 863-676-1408 TRIVIA NIGHT When: Mar. 11, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Thursday Live Trivia - Starts at 7. Signup at 6:30pm, top 3 teams win prizes. Visit Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week with over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps. Open 11am - 9pm.

DANIELA SOLEDADE & NATE NAJAR FROM BRAZIL WITH LOVE When: Mar. 12, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Experience a bossa nova experience for all ages.

Enjoy the lush vocals of Daniela Soledade and

An annual rite of passage, Spring Bloom presented by AdventHealth is the most colorful time of the year as thousands of azaleas, camellias, and annuals signal a new season. The festival celebrates the majesty of Mother Nature, now through April 30.

CENTERSTATE BANK CONCERTS UNDER THE STARS A partnership of the Lake Wales Arts Council and Bok Tower Gardens, enjoy amazing music, starlit nights, and the beautiful setting for a truly unique concert experience.

DANIELA SOLEDADE WITH NATE NA JAR

GARY MULE DEER

FRIDAY, MARCH 12

REVEREND BARRY & THE FUNK

THE PAUL GAVIN QUARTET FEATURING JAMES SUGGS

FRIDAY, APRIL 9

FRIDAY, APRIL 23

FRIDAY, MARCH 26

SPONSORED IN PART BY:

1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG

havenmagazines.com

40

the masterful guitar stylings of Nate Najar. The CenterState Bank Concert Under the Stars series is a co-production of Lake Wales Arts Council and Bok Tower Gardens.$36 members*/$40 nonmembers, and $48 day of the concert more info online.*LWAC members contact the arts council for code to receive discount at 863-676-8426.

unusual food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music is back! Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

8TH ANNUAL WHPD 5K When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 7 a.m.

Where: 325 Ave A NW, Winter Haven The 8th Annual WHPD 5k benefits Special Olympics Florida. This event will be an in person event with a rolling start time (or you can choose the virtual option)! Registration is at ACTIVE. COM - search WHPD 5k

YOGA IN DOBBINS PARK When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 9 a.m.

Where: Dobbins Park, 514 Ariana Street, Lakeland opendoorwell.com Yoga with Prima Burney, purchase tickets online.

SPRING OBSESSION When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Lake Crago Park, 525 Lake Crago Drive, Lakeland springobsesson.org The Lakeland Rotary Club’s 18th Annual “Spring Obsession” with Plants, Music, BBQ, Children’s Tent, Outdoor Decor, and Prize Drawings!

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER’S BIRTHDAY BASH! When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center, 101 Adventure Ct., Davenport Join the party with Birthday Cake, Discount Tickets, Caricatures, and the first 100 visitors will receive a FREE gift! Call 863-420-2586 for more info.

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of farmers,

VIRTUAL EVENT: SPRINGTIME ON THE FARM When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. boktowergardens.org Join food writers Pam Brandon and Heather McPherson for a virtual experience from one of Central Florida’s great farms. It’s springtime in the Sunshine State, and farmers are harvesting bumper crops and welcoming baby animals to the barnyard. Come meet farmer Dale Volkert from Lake Meadow Naturals in Ocoee, Fla., and join Pam and Heather for a farm-fresh lunch with recipes from their Florida cookbooks, “Field to Feast” and “Good Catch.”$20 members/$30 Non-members. Requires reservation for members and purchase for non-members. Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you.

VIRTUAL ARTLAB When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

PolkMuseumofArt.org/ArtLab Join us the Second Saturday of each month 10:30am-noon, students of all ages will be introduced to one of the Museum’s exhibitions in a fun, entertaining and accessible manner through hands-on learning. Cost: Members, Free. NonMembers, $5. Pre-registration required.

VIRTUAL EVENT: THE FLORIDA GARDENER: BACKYARD BEEKEEPING When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 2-3 p.m. boktowergardens.org Learn to keep bees naturally in your ow yard with startup tips and guidance from a successful backyard beekeeper. Free for Members/$10 for Non-members. Requires reservation for members and purchase for non-members. Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you.

ZOOM AND VROOM When: Mar. 13, 2021 | 11 a.m. polk-county.net/history-center/zoom-andvroom Florida Stories: Using Your Smartphone to Explore Historic Florida. Each digital session features: A virtual history lesson with question and answer opportunities on a variety of topics. A routed half to full day driving tour that guides you from one historic location to the next. Interactive activities designed for all ages. Thematic activities including crafts and recipes. Suggested book readings to extend the learning experience. Additional materials can be picked up at the Polk County History Center Tuesday — Saturday between 9am and 5pm.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS When: Mar. 14, 2021 | 3 a.m.

Move your clocks forward one hour.

SOUL FLOW AND TEA CEREMONY WITH PRIMA B. When: Mar. 14, 2021 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com This experience includes a gentle yoga class held at a meditative pace for all levels. We will merge into sacred tea ceremony. Afterwards, we will end our time together journaling and a share circle.

Participants are invited to bring their own tea cup.

Tea will be provided by Open Door Wellness.

863-224-2311.

CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Mar. 15, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen, 3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Craft Beer & Bingo starts at 7pm, free to play with beer & gift card prizes every Monday. Open 11am-9pm on TACO TUESDAY When: Mar. 16, 2021 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Taco Tuesday - 3 for $5 at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. With over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps to try a beer or take home a growler. Open 11am 9pm on Tuesdays.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY When: Mar. 17, 2021 FLORIDA WILLS, TRUSTS & ESTATE PLANNING 101 When: Mar. 17, 2021 | 10 a.m.

TessierLawFirm.com The Tessier Law Firm, P.A. is presenting a 90-minute video Workshop explaining the 5 Key Documents you need NOW to protect your family and your assets in these uncertain times. To receive your registration link, visit our website at www.

TessierLawFirm.com, email us at DeniseTessier@ TessierLawFirm.com, or call Attorney Denise Tessier at (863) 220-7927. Limited logins available - register today!

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 -

You can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Polk County by being 5weet and following these five safety steps.

Whether you’re inside or out, keep six feet between yourself and others.

Wear your mask wherever you go.

Wash your hands for 20 seconds often throughout the day.

If you’re feeling ill, stay home and avoid spreading sickness to others.

It’s all for one and 5 for all.

Learn more about how you can help protect our community at VisitCentralFlorida.org/besweet 41

Stay up to date with and follow all health and safety guidelines.

Polk County’s Official Tourism Marketing Organization

STORY TIME (AGES 3-5) When: Mar. 17, 2021 | 10-10:45 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

NEIGHBORHOOD STORY TIME When: Mar. 18, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Medulla Resource Center

1049 Parker Rd., Lakeland Neighborhood Story Time is a new program from Polk County Parks & Recreation designed to promote family literacy, among families with pre-school age children up to 6-years old. At each event, an engaging costumed character will read stories from a beloved children’s book. Handson activities will follow the readings and snacks will be provided to celebrate the theme of each children’s book. For more information, please call the Medulla Resource Center at (863) 647-4035.

March 18- Green Eggs and Ham. BOOK BABIES (AGES 18MO - 2YRS) When: Mar. 18, 2021 | 10-10:30 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park, across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

YOGA NIDRA - BY DONATION ONLY When: Mar. 19, 2021 | 6-7 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga, 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com This class will include a brief explanation, a light physical practice and a deep guided meditation. You’re sure to leave feeling lighter. BY

DONATION ONLY - $5, $10, $15, $20 options.

Proceeds benefit the the studio.Space is limited.

Please reserve yours online at www.ioyogastudio. com. Please bring your own props and mat.

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Mar. 20, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of farmers, unusual food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music is back! Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

Food Court, Children’s Hands On Art by Polk State College. March 20 & 21st.

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED: MY LOVE LETTER TO LOVE SONGS When: Mar. 20, 2021 | 4 p.m.

Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium, 500 Cletus Allen Drive, Winter Haven centralfloridatix.com Part of the Theatre Winter Haven Stadium Series.

Bring your lawn chair, cooler and enjoy a great show under the stars! An evening of love songs with Katie Pinder Brown.Gates open at 3 PM, Show starts at 4 PM, purchase tickets online.

CRAFT + KITCHEN SUNDAY SPECIAL When: Mar. 21, 2021 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Enjoy $1 off drafts & $5 dinner franks at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. Open 11am9pm on Sundays.

CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI SHOW When: Mar. 20, 2021 | 5 p.m.

Where: MLK Jr. Park, 199 E Lake Silver Dr. NE, Winter Haven A FREE family-friendly ski show! Concessions available for purchase. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. On the 1st and 3rd Saturdays in Feb, March & April.

YOGA AT INMAN PARK When: Mar. 20, 2021 | 9 a.m.

Where: Inman Park, 8th St. NW, Winter Haven opendoorwell.com Yoga with Prima Burney at Inman Park. Free community event.

MOBILE FOOD PANTRY When: Mar. 20, 2021 | 9-10:30 a.m.

Where: Bethune Academy

900 Avenue F, Haines City Are you in need of food? This pantry will be drivethru only to minimize contact. Drivers stay in their car and pre-boxed food will be loaded in the trunk.

Sponsored by the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven.

SPRING BLOOM BRUNCH IN A BAG When: Mar. 21, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org The number of brunch packages is limited and may sell out. Advance purchase guarantees you will receive the package. All brunch items are packaged “to go” and purchasers may enjoy their meal on the Blue Palmetto Cafe terrace or anywhere in the Gardens. 863-676-1408

CENTRAL PARK ART FESTIVAL When: Mar. 20, 2021 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Central Park

4th St. NW, Winter Haven ridgeart.org Presented by Ridge Art Association and Victor Smith Law Group. Fine Art and Fine Crafts, Music,

CENTRAL PARK ART FESTIVAL When: Mar. 21, 2021 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Central Park, 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ridgeart.org Presented by Ridge Art Association and Victor Smith Law Group. Fine Art and Fine Crafts, Music,

Always Something New

300+ Craft Beers | Dine In or Take Out Thursday Trivia Night & Live Music on Saturday Open Sun-Wed 11am-9pm, Thurs 11am-10pm & Fri-Sat 11am-11pm 3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland | 863.455.9555 | cklakeland.com

havenmagazines.com

Food Court, Children’s Hands On Art by Polk State College. March 20 & 21st.

42

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH When: Mar. 21, 2021 | 4:45-5:45 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga, 52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Space is limited, register in advance. Bring your own mat & equipment. $20 InvestmentJoin Cosmic Sound Healer, Buffy La Roux as she facilitates a high vibratory journey of Sound through time and space. Each Crystal Sound Bath is a unique symphony and a dance of the collective energies present for the Well Being of All and the Amplification of Love. 863-224-2311.

SPRING BREAK ART CAMP When: Mar. 22, 2021 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org/springcamp Children ages 7-13. Camp classes will provide the freedom of exploration through creativity, process, medium and technique. Max capacity for classes is 15 students. All classes are taught by certified art teachers and/or art professionals. Must register in advance. 863-688-7743 CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Mar. 22, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Craft Beer & Bingo starts at 7pm, free to play with

beer & gift card prizes every Monday at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. Open 11am9pm on DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF EAST POLK/RIDGE When: Mar. 23, 2021 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: The R-Place Eatery

35523 Hwy 27, Haines City The Democratic Women’s Club of East Polk/Ridge meets every 4th Tuesday. All Democratic women are welcome to join the club, where we discuss shared political views and volunteer for activities that help elect fellow Democrats. Contact: Anne Huffman, Club President (863-242-3230) and annehuffman01@gmail.com STORY TIME (AGES 3-5) When: Mar. 24, 2021 | 10-10:45 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library, 2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

REPUBLICAN WOMEN’S CLUB OF LAKELAND When: Mar. 24, 2021 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Grasslands Golf & Country Club, 1600 Grasslands Blvd., Lakeland 4th Wednesday of each month. Make Reservations: - Noel Trees — 863-680-1340. We are a friendly group of Republican Women of all ages who enjoy sharing political views and meeting our candidates as they present their platforms to us at our luncheon meeting. We welcome visitors and are always seeking new members to join us. For additional info, contact Jane Stevenson, Treasurer, stevenjane11365@aol.com

Wales Arts Council and Bok Tower Gardens.$36 members*, $40 non-members, and $48 day of the concert.*LWAC members contact the arts council for code to receive discount at 863-676-8426.

BOOK BABIES (AGES 18MO - 2YRS) When: Mar. 25, 2021 | 10-10:30 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library, 2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow.

Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park, across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on.

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET When: Mar. 27, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW, Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a wide variety of farmers, unusual food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a sprinkling of crafts. Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music is back! Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

TRIVIA NIGHT When: Mar. 25, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Thursday Live Trivia - Starts at 7. Signup at 6:30pm, top 3 teams win prizes. Open 11am 9pm.

DRINK ‘N’ DOODLE When: Mar. 25, 2021 | 7-9 p.m.

Where: Keel & Curley Winery

5210 Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City A casual art event, no fee. Every month, MAKE Plant City will post an art prompt on their FB page and then you bring the materials you like to work with and create! On the 4th Thursday of every month.

POWER FOODS FOR THE FITNESS ENTHUSIAST When: Mar. 27, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org The Power Foods for the Fitness Enthusiast class aims to empower attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to prepare simple, nutritious meals that fuel optimal fitness and recovery. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and learn how to make five plant-based Smoothie Bowls for optimal nutrition and quick recovery.$35 members/$50 for Non-members. Purchase tickets online, at the Visitor Center or by phone at 863-734-1222.

THE PAUL GAVIN QUARTET FEATURING JAMES SUGGS A TRIBUTE TO MILES DAVIS When: Mar. 26, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens,

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Come pay tribute to one of the most influential and innovative musicians of the 20th century, Miles Davis: American jazz trumpeter, bandleader, and composer. Experience the music that sold-out concerts worldwide and crossed five decades of major stylistic developments in jazz earning Davis a 2006 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The concert is a co-production of Lake

of brunch packages is limited and may sell out.

Advance purchase guarantees you will receive the package. All brunch items are packaged “to go” and purchasers may enjoy their meal on the Blue Palmetto Cafe terrace or anywhere in the Gardens.863-676-1408 VIRTUAL FOSTER CARE CLASSES (WEEKNIGHTS) When: Mar. 30, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org Are you interested in learning what it takes to become a foster caregiver and provide a safe & loving home for children in your community? Join us for this upcoming virtual class! Every Tuesday & Thursday evening for 3 weeks. To register, you must complete the following steps: 1. Call (863)519-8900 x 289 2. Complete a short interview over the phone to determine eligibility for the program. 3. Watch our Foster Care Info Session video: https://youtu.be/Bn65oEI416M STORY TIME (AGES 3-5) When: Mar. 31, 2021 | 10-10:45 a.m.

Where: Bartow Public Library

2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow Weather permitting, we will be meeting in the amphitheater in Mosaic Park across the street from the library. We will be social distancing, and all adults must wear masks. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets for you and your child to sit on. *Due to the uncertainty of COVID, please double check that the event you’re interested in has not been canceled or rescheduled.

SPRING BLOOM BRUNCH IN A BAG When: Mar. 28, 2021 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org General admission for non-members required and not included in the brunch price. The number

TAKE CHARGE OF LIFE’S TRANSITIONS

OUR KEY OFFERINGS

NOW OPEN

863.220.7927 Office | 863.225.2244 Direct DeniseTessier@TessierLawFirm.com

7331 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland | (863) 603-3700 thebackninelakeland.com

43

SOLD HOMES

930 SQUARE LAKE DR.......................................BARTOW..............1/15/2021............. $415,000 945 LAKEVIEW AVE...........................................BARTOW..............1/21/2021..............$125,000

DAVENPORT

AUBURNDALE

1002 HIGH VISTA DR...................................DAVENPORT............. 1/22/2021............. $207,500 102 ANDALUSIA LOOP.................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............ $280,000 1026 ST GEORGE DR....................................DAVENPORT............. 1/25/2021.............. $115,000 1032 ANDEAN LN.........................................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021..............$251,000 1048 ANDEAN LN........................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............. $252,500 105 CLOVERBROOK TRL.............................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............. $265,700 1074 AERIDES WAY......................................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021.............$270,000 113 NICHOLSON DR.....................................DAVENPORT............. 1/22/2021.............$220,000 114 LOBLOLLY LN.........................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021..............$251,000 116 CITRUS ISLE ST.......................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021...............$94,500 124 FOGGY CREEK CT..................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021.............$220,000 133 HAMLET LOOP......................................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021.............. $275,100 1409 GOLF COURSE PKWY.........................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............ $308,000 181 SILVER MAPLE BND................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............. $259,500 1916 GREENBRIAR TER................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021.............$295,000 1920 GREENBRIAR TER................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021.............$295,000 2007 ST GEORGE DR...................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021...............$56,000 2009 CAMDEN LOOP..................................DAVENPORT.............. 1/17/2021............. $367,000 2058 SHERBROOK AVE...............................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021.............$350,000 220 FIDDLEWOOD CT.................................DAVENPORT............. 1/18/2021.............$100,000 225 FIDDLEWOOD CT..................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021...............$237,100 227 JESSAMINE DR.......................................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021.............$245,000 229 HAVERSHAM WAY................................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021............ $240,000 233 FIDDLEWOOD CT.................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021.............$100,000 233 PRIMROSE DR.......................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021.............$205,000 236 SEVILLA AVE.........................................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021............ $290,000 245 ARNOLD PALMER DR............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021...............$73,000 248 BERGAMOT LOOP................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021..............$277,500 250 SUNRISE RD..........................................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021.............$249,900 253 GOLDEN SANDS CIR.............................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............. $275,800 2537 CAMDEN PARK CIR.............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$467,700 254 ANDALUSIA LOOP................................DAVENPORT............. 1/22/2021.............$234,900 2540 CAMDEN PARK CIR.............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$467,700 2541 CAMDEN PARK CIR..............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$467,700 2544 CAMDEN PARK CIR.............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$467,700 2545 CAMDEN PARK CIR.............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$467,700 2568 CAMDEN PARK CIR.............................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$467,700 260 FIDDLEWOOD CT.................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021.............$100,000 275 FOXTAIL LOOP......................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021..............$227,400 276 FIDDLEWOOD CT.................................DAVENPORT............. 1/18/2021.............$100,000 2846 ST GEORGE DR...................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............... $74,500 297 GOLDEN SANDS CIR.............................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............. $270,500 305 BANDON DUNES LOOP........................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021..............$214,500 313 REGENCY RIDGE DR..............................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021............. $281,000 349 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 353 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 357 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 361 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 365 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400

113 JOSHUA CT.......................................... AUBURNDALE..............1/13/2021.............$255,000 115 SAPPHIRE CT....................................... AUBURNDALE..............1/19/2021............ $344,400 117 LAKESIDE HILLS LOOP 5..................... AUBURNDALE..............1/15/2021.............. $50,000 125 JANA CIR............................................. AUBURNDALE............. 1/14/2021...............$72,000 161 BELLARIA CT....................................... AUBURNDALE..............1/16/2021.............$245,900 1640 DOVES VIEW CIR............................. AUBURNDALE.............1/20/2021.............$238,000 173 COSTA LOOP...................................... AUBURNDALE.............. 1/11/2021............ $420,000 195 BENTLEY OAKS BLVD......................... AUBURNDALE..............1/15/2021............ $380,000 2009 KIRKLAND LAKE DR........................ AUBURNDALE............. 1/14/2021.............$230,000 205 CHARLES AVE.................................... AUBURNDALE............. 1/25/2021..............$152,000 208 WHISPERING OAKS WAY................... AUBURNDALE..............1/19/2021............ $244,000 218 LAKE ARIETTA CT............................... AUBURNDALE..............1/15/2021............. $413,000 224 CRESCENT RIDGE RD......................... AUBURNDALE..............1/15/2021............. $352,600 321 OAK ST................................................ AUBURNDALE............. 1/14/2021............. $146,000 376 CASCARA LN...................................... AUBURNDALE..............1/19/2021.............$205,600 402 WALNUT ST....................................... AUBURNDALE............. 1/25/2021..............$152,000 4079 JULIANA LAKE DR............................ AUBURNDALE..............1/15/2021............. $105,000 450 AMETHYST AVE................................. AUBURNDALE.............. 1/11/2021.............$352,000 479 AUTUMN STREAM DR....................... AUBURNDALE..............1/21/2021.............$248,500 559 AUTUMN STREAM DR....................... AUBURNDALE.............1/20/2021.............$255,000 612 BERKLEY POINTE DR.......................... AUBURNDALE..............1/21/2021.............$250,500 614 PINE ST............................................... AUBURNDALE..............1/13/2021............. $196,000 636 AUTUMN STREAM DR....................... AUBURNDALE.............. 1/11/2021.............$292,000 916 WATERVILLE DR................................. AUBURNDALE..............1/19/2021............ $240,000

BARTOW

1055 HWY 17......................................................BARTOW............. 1/22/2021............$800,000 1205 STUART ST................................................BARTOW............. 1/14/2021............. $279,900 1425 BROADWAY ST..........................................BARTOW............. 1/14/2021............. $207,500 1503 CLINTON ST...............................................BARTOW............. 1/14/2021............ $200,000 1540 BOUGAINVILLEA......................................BARTOW..............1/15/2021............. $170,000 1750 KISSENGEN AVE........................................BARTOW............. 1/22/2021..............$155,000 1975 HERMOSA AVE..........................................BARTOW..............1/19/2021............ $390,000 2282 MORNING MIST AVE.................................BARTOW..............1/15/2021............ $248,000 2592 GRIFFIN RD...............................................BARTOW..............1/21/2021..............$133,000 3313 CITRUS DR.................................................BARTOW..............1/19/2021.............. $251,900 4649 SALLY DR..................................................BARTOW..............1/13/2021...............$65,000 490 DAVIDSON ST.............................................BARTOW..............1/15/2021.............$325,000 495 PARKER ST..................................................BARTOW............. 1/22/2021.............$245,000 505 PARKER ST..................................................BARTOW............. 1/14/2021............ $380,000 534 PATTON LOOP............................................BARTOW.............1/20/2021.............$263,400 535 LUCILLE ST..................................................BARTOW..............1/12/2021............. $140,000 538 PATTON LOOP............................................BARTOW..............1/19/2021..............$241,500 590 FLORAL AVE...............................................BARTOW..............1/21/2021............. $190,000 805 CHURCH ST................................................BARTOW.............. 1/11/2021.............$334,000 8152 CHEROKEE AVE.........................................BARTOW............. 1/18/2021.............$100,000 855 ORANGE BLOSSOM CIR.............................BARTOW.............. 1/11/2021............. $170,000

863.604.6200 | yourkteam.com

Polk County’s Favorite Real Estate Family. Cathy Kluytenaar & Zac Kluytenaar havenmagazines.com

44

HAINES CITY

369 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 373 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 377 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 3780 HUNTWICKE BLVD.............................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............. $145,400 381 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 385 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 389 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 393 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 397 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 398 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 401 BANDON DUNES LOOP........................DAVENPORT..............1/21/2021..............$257,000 401 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 402 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 405 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 406 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 409 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD.......................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 410 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 413 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 4131 OAKTREE DR........................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $450,000 414 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 417 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 418 FELTRIM RESERVE BLVD........................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021............ $892,400 434 JACKS WAY...........................................DAVENPORT..............1/21/2021..............$271,000 454 ANNABELLE WAY..................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021.............$246,600 458 ANNABELLE WAY..................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021.............$246,600 484 SARDINIA CIR.......................................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021.............$278,000 508 WILDCAT LN.........................................DAVENPORT............. 1/22/2021.............$276,800 5209 OAKBOURNE AVE..............................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021............ $405,000 566 SUNRIDGE WOODS BLVD....................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021............ $284,000 681 FIDDLESTICKS DR.................................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021..............$257,200 700 CASSIA DR............................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021.............$330,000 802 BENJAMIN TRL......................................DAVENPORT..............1/12/2021.............$246,600 846 FILLMORE CT.......................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 851 BROOKLET DR......................................DAVENPORT..............1/21/2021..............$315,000 866 FILLMORE CT.......................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 870 FILLMORE CT........................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 872 BROOKLET DR......................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021.............. $281,700 874 FILLMORE CT........................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 878 FILLMORE CT........................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 882 FILLMORE CT........................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 886 FILLMORE CT.......................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $364,000 915 LOCKBREEZE DR...................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021.............$238,000 93 DANCY ST...............................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021................$51,600 939 GRANDIN ST.........................................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021............. $223,000 948 GOLF COURSE PKWY...........................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021............ $348,000 1008 CYPRESS POINTE BLVD......................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021.............$330,000 270 RONALD REAGAN PKWY......................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............ $280,000 302 RONALD REAGAN PKWY......................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............ $280,000 573 VISTA VILLAGES BLVD...........................DAVENPORT..............1/21/2021............ $284,600 1002 BLOOMINGDALE DR...........................DAVENPORT............. 1/18/2021.............$336,000 121 NAPOLI DR.............................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............. $139,000 1221 ALOHA BLVD........................................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021...............$511,900 1231 IGUANA LOOP......................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............ $286,000 137 WEYMOUTH DR....................................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021..............$169,900 210 TERRA LAGO ST....................................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021.............. $167,000 2112 CALABRIA AVE.....................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............. $144,000 214 CAPRI DR...............................................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021............. $138,000 218 BIRCHWOOD DR...................................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021.............$255,000 228 WHITBY ST............................................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............ $248,000 236 HERRING ST..........................................DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............. $170,000 2882 BELLA VISTA DR..................................DAVENPORT.............. 1/11/2021.............. $191,000 300 HAMPTON DR......................................DAVENPORT............. 1/14/2021.............$270,000 50989 HIGHWAY 27 LOT 218......................DAVENPORT..............1/15/2021..............$155,000 5703 SAGUNTO DR.....................................DAVENPORT..............1/19/2021............ $288,000 606 GRAN BAHAMA BLVD..........................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021............. $109,000 610 NEW PROVIDENCE PROMENADE.........DAVENPORT............. 1/22/2021..............$102,500 624 DOLCETTO DR.....................................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021.............. $321,500 757 TERRA LAGO ST....................................DAVENPORT..............1/13/2021.............. $157,000 912 NEW PROVIDENCE PROMENADE..........DAVENPORT.............1/20/2021............. $105,000

1057 ZION DR...............................................HAINES CITY..............1/13/2021...............$231,100 107 KENTUCKY ST.......................................HAINES CITY..............1/19/2021..............$215,000 1089 ZION DR..............................................HAINES CITY............. 1/14/2021............. $235,700 111 KENTUCKY ST.........................................HAINES CITY.............. 1/11/2021..............$215,000 1111 MARINER CAY DR..................................HAINES CITY..............1/12/2021.............$239,000 115 KENTUCKY ST........................................HAINES CITY..............1/19/2021.............$220,000 116 PALM VIEW CT 3535/6............................HAINES CITY..............1/12/2021...............$75,000 121 MAPLE HILL DR.......................................HAINES CITY.............1/20/2021.............$229,000 124 JOHNSON AVE.......................................HAINES CITY............. 1/22/2021.............$278,000 190 HENRY STEVENS DR.............................HAINES CITY..............1/15/2021.............$229,000 194 AIDANS LNDG.......................................HAINES CITY.............. 1/11/2021.............$230,000 2 EDINBURGH DR........................................HAINES CITY..............1/19/2021............. $156,000 2021 WATKINS RD........................................HAINES CITY............. 1/22/2021............. $150,000 232 MACAULAY’S CV...................................HAINES CITY..............1/12/2021..............$421,500 251 PATTERSON RD LOT F-7........................HAINES CITY..............1/12/2021...............$53,000 255 PELICAN LN...........................................HAINES CITY..............1/21/2021...............$75,000 292 CITRUS POINTE DR...............................HAINES CITY..............1/21/2021.............$239,800 318 24TH ST.................................................HAINES CITY.............1/20/2021............... $87,200 3567 CAMELOT DR......................................HAINES CITY.............. 1/11/2021...............$75,000 374 VILLA SORRENTO CIR...........................HAINES CITY............. 1/14/2021..............$315,000 3996 JOHNSON AVE....................................HAINES CITY..............1/21/2021............ $200,000 4004 HEMINGWAY CIR...............................HAINES CITY..............1/15/2021............... $97,000 515 JUNE AVE...............................................HAINES CITY............. 1/14/2021.............$258,000 521 ANDREA CIR..........................................HAINES CITY..............1/19/2021.............$270,600 535 TORTUGAS ST......................................HAINES CITY..............1/19/2021.............. $270,100 609 MEADOW POINTE DR..........................HAINES CITY.............. 1/11/2021.............$243,800 648 TORTUGAS ST......................................HAINES CITY..............1/13/2021.............$250,800 661 MEADOW POINTE DR...........................HAINES CITY............. 1/22/2021............. $259,900 727 LAFAYETTE LN.......................................HAINES CITY..............1/13/2021.............$233,000 7741 LAKE HATCHINEHA RD........................HAINES CITY..............1/12/2021............ $280,000

LAKE WALES

207 EMERALD AVE...................................... LAKE WALES.............1/20/2021............. $149,900 2300 SCENIC HWY...................................... LAKE WALES..............1/19/2021...........$1,018,000 273 SUMMIT AVE......................................... LAKE WALES..............1/12/2021............. $214,000 328 TWIN LAKE BLVD.................................. LAKE WALES..............1/21/2021.............. $80,000 3943 CHAMBERS ST.................................... LAKE WALES.............. 1/11/2021.............$269,000 401 DOMARIS AVE....................................... LAKE WALES..............1/13/2021........... $1,150,000 4728 FLEETWOOD ST.................................. LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021..............$199,900 703 WILDABON AVE.................................... LAKE WALES............. 1/22/2021.............. $107,500 711 SPRINGER DR......................................... LAKE WALES............. 1/22/2021...............$70,000 929 LANCELOT DR...................................... LAKE WALES............. 1/14/2021............ $200,000 2547 NURSERY RD....................................... LAKE WALES..............1/12/2021............. $160,000 4236 DORNOCH DR.................................... LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021.............$265,000 426 MARIETTA ST........................................ LAKE WALES..............1/21/2021............... $72,200 4313 BERWICK DR....................................... LAKE WALES..............1/12/2021............. $190,000 4429 TURNBERRY LN.................................. LAKE WALES............. 1/22/2021............. $272,000 1104 COUNTRY CLUB DR............................. LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021.............. $116,900 14363 CAMP MACK RD................................ LAKE WALES.............. 1/11/2021............ $240,000 213 MASTERPIECE RD.................................. LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021.............. $60,000 2300 SCENIC HWY...................................... LAKE WALES............. 1/22/2021...........$1,007,000 249 MARTHA............................................... LAKE WALES..............1/19/2021...............$65,000 2603 EAGLE CT............................................ LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021.............$370,000 275 SADDLE LN............................................ LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021............... $67,000 3709 CLUB CIR............................................ LAKE WALES............. 1/14/2021.............. $50,000 3820 ROLLING HILLS CT............................. LAKE WALES..............1/15/2021.............. $94,000 40 MOUNTAIN LAKE................................... LAKE WALES.............1/20/2021............ $505,000 5548 LAKESIDE DR...................................... LAKE WALES..............1/12/2021.............$230,000 7759 CAMP MACK RD.................................. LAKE WALES.............1/29/2021.............. $54,000 79 ROAN RD................................................ LAKE WALES.............. 1/11/2021.............. $110,000

LAKELAND

1241 HONEYTREE LN.......................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021.............. $110,000 1301 E MYRTLE ST...........................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............. $120,000 1315 E PARKER ST............................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021...............$85,000 1906 CASCO ST..............................................LAKELAND.............. 2/8/2021.............. $80,000 2013 MAIN ST..................................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............ $200,000 2210 LAKE HOLLOWAY BLVD..........................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............ $206,000

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 45

2246 JUNGLE ST.............................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $139,000 2426 GOLFVIEW ST........................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............. $162,000 2500 BURNS ST..............................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$104,000 2735 ALDINE CIR............................................LAKELAND.............1/26/2021..............$135,800 4520 E SADDLE CRK.......................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021...............$70,000 521 LAZY LAKE DR..........................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............... $73,300 524 BERKNOR DR...........................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021..............$152,500 540 FRANCIS BLVD.........................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $190,000 711 COLLEGE AVE............................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021..............$135,000 718 JEFFERSON AVE........................................LAKELAND............. 1/25/2021............. $224,900 821 HOLLINGSWORTH RD..............................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021...............$131,500 919 LIME ST.....................................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............. $310,000 101 W ARIANA ST............................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021......... $4,635,000 1110 EDGEWOOD DR.......................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............. $160,000 1427 PICCADILLY PL........................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............$245,000 1708 S WEBSTER AVE......................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............. $157,000 1920 EDGEWOOD DR D1.................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............... $81,000 1934 GLENDALE ST.........................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021..............$125,000 2001 SEMINOLE TRL.......................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............. $615,000 217 CANNON ST..............................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............. $163,000 2207 S LINCOLN AVE......................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $225,000 2814 SOUTHINGTON AVE..............................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021..............$173,000 2925 STANHOPE AVE......................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021..............$169,900 3193 OAKPARK DR..........................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$295,000 3333 KILMER DR.............................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021..............$125,000 403 OAK DR...................................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............... $52,500 4063 SOLAMOR ST........................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$236,000 407 ENCLAVE PL.............................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............. $180,000 509 W HANCOCK ST......................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$235,000 524 PRINCESS PL............................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............. $127,000 524 W BELVEDERE ST.....................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021.............. $187,900 632 EDGEWOOD DR.......................................LAKELAND............. 1/25/2021.............. $197,000 835 CHATFIELD ST.........................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021.............$285,000 1032 W 9TH ST................................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............. $149,900 1155 W 5TH ST.................................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021..............$155,000 1506 EDGEWATER BEACH DR.........................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$363,900 2250 GENEVA DR............................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$285,000 2619 N FLORIDA AVE.......................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021.............. $60,000 301 W 9TH ST..................................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............. $239,900 5905 GREAT SALT CT.....................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............$220,000 5910 KOOTER RD............................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............. $190,000 933 LAKE DEESON PT.....................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............. $80,000 940 12TH ST....................................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021...............$65,600 11202 COUNTRY HAVEN DR...........................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021............. $106,600 214 MARBLE LN...............................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............. $156,000 408 SOUTH RD..............................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............ $590,000 4225 STAFFORDSHIRE DR..............................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............$320,000 5710 N DAUGHTERY RD..................................LAKELAND.............1/26/2021............. $148,900 5820 LAKE GROVE DR....................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021............. $162,000 6057 KITTIWAKE DR......................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $148,000 6115 NORTH FORK CT.....................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021..............$205,100 8110 SIMPSON LN...........................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............. $80,000 913 SADDLEWOOD BLVD...............................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............. $86,400 961 HUNTERS MEADOW LN...........................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021.............$326,900

Happy

1405 COUNTRY CHASE DR............................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............ $200,000 1986 DEEP CREEK DR.....................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021............... $55,500 2068 HARVEST LANDING CIR........................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021.............$260,500 2228 SEA ISLAND CIR.....................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............. $165,000 2231 MISSION HILLS DR..................................LAKELAND............. 1/18/2021..............$179,900 2251 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CIR UNIT 142......LAKELAND..............1/15/2021..............$135,000 2510 SLEEPY HOLLOW LN..............................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............$295,000 2580 SOCRUM LOOP RD................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$595,000 3244 CHERRY HILL CIR...................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$245,000 3429 SUTTON HILLS DR.................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021...............$52,000 3431 SUTTON RIDGE ST.................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$270,000 3469 SUTTON HILLS DR.................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............$100,000 3707 COVINGTON LN.....................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021............. $359,900 3830 HAVERHILL DR......................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021............ $280,000 3902 ROLLINGSFORD CIR..............................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............ $264,000 5520 STARLING LOOP....................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............$235,000 6919 DOVE CROSS LOOP...............................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............. $160,000 7022 CATHERINE DR......................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............. $574,000 7106 PEBBLE PASS LOOP................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021............. $225,000 7330 DOVE MEADOW TRL.............................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021...............$86,700 7390 BRIARBAY LOOP....................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............ $209,000 7715 WHICKHAM AVE.....................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021.............$289,000 8256 CAMPBELL CROSSING CIR....................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $253,600 8279 WESTMONT TERRACE DR.....................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............. $229,900 9141 E LEHALL SQ...........................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021.............$289,900 1014 STONEY CREEK DR.................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021..............$315,000 2826 VAN AMBER CT......................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021..............$257,200 2904 LONG POND DR....................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021............. $258,500 2952 LONG POND DR.....................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021..............$258,100 2982 LONG POND DR.....................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021.............. $251,500 2988 LONG POND DR....................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021.............$255,000 3822 SERENADE LN........................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............. $201,000 4010 SPRUCE CREEK DR................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021..............$245,100 4021 PINE FOREST PL......................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021...............$53,600 4095 SHEARWATER ST...................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............. $307,200 4101 HOLDEN RD............................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............. $657,100 4138 SHEARWATER ST....................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021..............$277,300 4149 SHEARWATER ST...................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021...............$53,600 4154 TIMBER VALLEY WAY.............................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021...............$53,600 5606 ARLINGTON RIVER DR..........................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............. $220,500 5614 ARLINGTON RIVER DR...........................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............$239,000 5621 ARLINGTON RIVER DR...........................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021............ $240,000 5731 KEATON SPRINGS DR.............................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$288,300 5813 ARLINGTON RIVER DR...........................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............. $257,700 6339 SEDGEFORD DR.....................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............. $187,500 6356 SEDGEFORD DR.....................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021.............. $181,500 6383 TORRINGTON CIR.................................LAKELAND.............1/26/2021..............$135,200 6386 SEDGEFORD DR....................................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021.............. $199,100 6415 TORRINGTON CIR..................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $184,500 6427 TORRINGTON CIR..................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021..............$175,900 3947 TALON CREST DR..................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............$220,000 4136 WINDING VINE DR.................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021..............$162,500 4268 BIRCH POND LOOP...............................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021..............$172,900 4417 LAKE HANCOCK RD...............................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............. $50,000

13th Anniversary

Home Solution Lenders, INC.

– Making Dreams Come True Since 2008 – FHA • VA • USDA Conventional • Bond • Construction • Refinance

HSLenders.com // 863-607-HOME

Low Rates, Refinance Now NMLS ID: 327291 • Lic Florida MLD954

JAYSON DURDEN CFO/Attorney

RICKY PEACOCK President & CEO

46

2018

2019

Best of Best of

5845 CHRISTIANSEN CT.................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............ $308,400 6147 STRICKLAND AVE...................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............. $211,800 108 KLEIN CT..................................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$249,900 1110 PRINCE PL................................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021............ $200,000 1117 PALACE PL................................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021.............$266,400 1128 CLEARPOINTE WAY.................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............ $240,000 1165 COLONY ARMS DR..................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021..............$367,500 1304 GLENVIEW LN........................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$230,000 2302 EASTMEADOWS RD...............................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021............ $200,000 2641 HIGH RIDGE DR......................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021..............$218,200 3617 FRENTRESS DR.......................................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021............. $410,000 3648 DOGWOOD PL......................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021............. $263,500 4131 CYPRESS AVE..........................................LAKELAND............. 1/18/2021..............$173,000 4304 IRIS ST...................................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............ $305,000 4415 LAUREL ST..............................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021............. $166,000 4702 S OLD RD 37...........................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021............. $180,000 4708 S OLD RD 37...........................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021............. $180,000 4714 S OLD RD 37............................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021............. $180,000 4720 S OLD RD 37...........................................LAKELAND..............1/21/2021............. $180,000 4919 WOODMERE DR.....................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021.............$555,000 5314 LISA AVE.................................................LAKELAND............. 1/18/2021.............$254,500 5941 COLONY PLACE DR................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............$320,000 6005 CHRISTINA DR......................................LAKELAND............. 1/22/2021.............$239,000 6128 MALCOMB DR........................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021..............$315,000 615 VICTORIA SQUARE LN.............................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............. $612,000 620 MIDFLORIDA DR......................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$670,000 6227 SOMERSET DR.......................................LAKELAND..............1/12/2021.............$270,000 6251 HIGHLAND RISE DR................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021.............$254,900 6308 CHRISTINA GROVES CIR.......................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$265,000 6328 TIMUCUANS DR....................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021.............$299,000 646 LARK DR..................................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............. $146,000 6501 ALAMANDA HILLS CIR...........................LAKELAND.............1/20/2021............. $252,400 6519 SHADOWBROOK RUN...........................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............ $300,000 6754 ENGLELAKE DR......................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021.............$365,000 6848 CRESCENT OAKS CIR............................LAKELAND.............. 1/11/2021............. $618,000 6861 CRESCENT OAKS CIR.............................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021............ $600,000 6884 SHADOWCAST LN.................................LAKELAND..............1/19/2021..............$219,000 6910 RED FOX RUN.........................................LAKELAND..............1/13/2021.............$425,500 928 POINT VIEW LN.......................................LAKELAND............. 1/14/2021.............$284,900 1745 W OLIVE ST.............................................LAKELAND..............1/15/2021............ $620,000

135 JACE WAY..........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021.............$238,000 1432 HAINES DR......................................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021............. $120,000 1482 GREY EAGLE LN..............................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021............. $233,300 1493 HAINES DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021............. $210,000 1499 HAINES DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021............. $223,000 1500 32ND ST.........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/21/2021............. $108,500 1500 AVENUE F.......................................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021.............. $110,300 1512 AVENUE C........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021...............$117,000 16 PILOT PL.............................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021............ $260,000 1636 AMBAR CT......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021............... $221,100 1665 AMBAR CT......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021.............$202,000 1690 AMBAR CT.....................................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021............. $120,000 1708 AMBAR CT......................................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021............. $120,000 1710 TERRY CIR.......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............. $189,800 1723 TERRY CIR.......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021............. $159,000 1983 40TH ST.........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021.............$100,000 1987 NW 40TH ST...................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021.............$100,000 2098 HAVENDALE BLVD.........................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021............. $279,000 294 MEADOWBROOK BLVD...................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021..............$277,000 3 GOLF VIEW CIR....................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021............. $185,000 3005 COUNTRY CLUB CIR.....................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/22/2021.............. $251,700 3008 COUNTRY CLUB CIR.....................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021............ $240,000 3044 BUCKEYE POINTE DR...................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021............ $240,000 3113 NW ELM ST......................................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/11/2021............. $138,000 3165 KIWI AVE.........................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021.............$242,000 3213 ROYAL TERN DR..............................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............ $284,000 3268 COUNTRY WALK CLUB CIR...........WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021............. $241,000 340 ALEXZANDER WAY..........................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021............. $252,500 373 WINTER RIDGE BLVD.......................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021.............. $101,000 4233 ROBERTA DR..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021.............$236,000 424 MCKENNA DR..................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021.............$249,300 432 LANHAM DR....................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021.............. $112,000 436 LANHAM DR....................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021.............. $112,000 4955 OLD LUCERNE PARK RD................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021.............. $68,000 531 SANCTUARY BLVD............................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021...............$82,000 614 SEARS AVE.......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021............. $189,900 690 PEYTON BROOKE WAY...................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............. $281,000 809 HILLSIDE CT....................................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/11/2021.............$336,000 9 EAGLES NEST ST..................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021.............$265,000 960 14TH ST...........................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021..............$175,000 992 CAMBRIDGE DR...............................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021............. $214,000 1007 CORSO DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/18/2021.............. $110,900 1022 CORSO DR......................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/18/2021.............. $110,900 1054 CORSO DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/18/2021.............. $110,900 1055 MOCKINGBIRD LN..........................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/11/2021............. $180,000 1061 BRENTON MANOR DR....................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021............ $260,000 107 LAKE ELIZABETH DR........................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021..............$152,000 112 WYNDHAM DR..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021............. $124,000 1123 INTERLOCHEN BLVD.......................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021............. $831,800 117 CITRUS DR........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............. $190,000 1355 BENEVENTO DR..............................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/22/2021.............$260,200 1371 BENEVENTO DR...............................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021..............$219,600 1422 INNSBRUCK CT...............................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/11/2021..............$175,000 159 EMANUELLE DR................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/21/2021............. $218,000 1663 VIENNA SQUARE DR......................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............. $150,000 1861 EMILY DR.........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............ $206,000 2721 WHISPERING TRAILS DR.................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021.............. $217,000 2915 PLANTATION RD................................WINTER HAVEN............... 1/15/2021...............$310,000 294 HERNANDO RD..................................WINTER HAVEN............... 1/19/2021............. $400,000 3324 OAK HILL PL......................................WINTER HAVEN...............1/14/2021...............$287,000 339 BANYAN DR........................................WINTER HAVEN...............1/18/2021............... $266,100 377 CORSO LOOP......................................WINTER HAVEN............... 1/15/2021..............$240,500 3835 OSPREY POINTE CIR.........................WINTER HAVEN...............1/22/2021............... $216,500 553 VITTORIO DR......................................WINTER HAVEN................1/11/2021............... $218,700 5724 LAKE FOX DR....................................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/20/2021................ $73,400 609 VITTORIO DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/20/2021...............$214,300 6153 PEBBLE BEACH BLVD.........................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/20/2021..............$349,000 6407 OAK GROVE DR................................WINTER HAVEN............... 1/15/2021............... $107,500 660 VITTORIO DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN................1/11/2021............... $254,100 716 SANTA MARIA DR................................WINTER HAVEN................1/11/2021............... $315,900 811 ORCHID SPRINGS DR...........................WINTER HAVEN............... 1/15/2021................$95,000 824 OVERLOOK GROVE DR......................WINTER HAVEN................1/11/2021.............. $140,000 9458 WATERFORD OAKS DR.....................WINTER HAVEN...............1/14/2021.............. $358,900

WINTER HAVEN

1008 TALON LN......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021.............$234,800 110 22ND ST.............................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021..............$170,500 120 SW AVENUE E...................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............. $272,500 1262 34TH ST..........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021.............. $90,000 128 SW 26TH ST......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/16/2021................$67,200 13 THE VILLAGE BLVD.............................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/22/2021.............. $251,900 136 BLACK SKIMMER LN.........................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/22/2021.............$205,800 1413 WALLACE MANOR PASS..................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021.............$220,000 1527 SW FOXRIDGE RUN........................WINTER HAVEN..............1/21/2021............. $154,900 1623 ROSELAWN ST................................WINTER HAVEN.............. 1/11/2021..............$152,000 1801 SE 3RD CT.......................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/13/2021.............$396,500 2050 SAN MARCOS DR #212...................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021...............$72,000 2180 SAN MARCOS CIR..........................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021..............$124,900 2314 ISLE ROYALE CT..............................WINTER HAVEN..............1/21/2021..............$135,000 3490 RECKER HWY................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/18/2021.......... $2,375,000 425 GARRETT RIDGE CT.........................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021...............$65,000 4346 THOMAS WOOD LN......................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............. $272,000 468 KENSINGTON VIEW DR...................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/22/2021............. $232,000 530 EAGLE LANDING BLVD....................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021............. $228,500 567 EAGLE LANDING BLVD.....................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021.............$220,000 570 EAGLE LANDING BLVD.....................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021..............$201,500 691 AVENUE F.........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/19/2021..............$227,000 701 AVENUE N.........................................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021............. $156,800 825 EAGLE ROCK TER............................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021............. $194,000 102 NW OAK CREST DR..........................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/18/2021.............$475,000 118 NW OAK CREST DR...........................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/18/2021.............$475,000 122 JACE WAY..........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/21/2021.............$230,000 1290 BUCKEYE RD..................................WINTER HAVEN............. 1/14/2021..............$214,900 130 JACE WAY.........................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/15/2021............ $240,000 1300 HAINES DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN..............1/12/2021...............$213,100 1349 HAINES DR.....................................WINTER HAVEN.............1/20/2021............. $120,000

47

#lkldhaven

havenmagazines.com

48

#lkldhaven

#lkldhaven

#lkldhaven

Stop and Smell the Flowers.

Kathryn Convers, MD Board-certified: Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, AND Allergy/Immunology Collaborative Faculty Assistant Professor of Pediatrics with USF Morsani School of Medicine Phone: 863-213-1010 || Address: 4325 Highland Park Blvd.,Lakeland || Web: LakelandAllergy.com Most major medical insurance, and patients of all ages accepted.