LKLD September 2024 BEST OF!

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Stuart Permit #300 Postal Customer ECRWSS

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Letter From the Editor

It’s time to celebrate! I’m proud to announce the 2024 BEST OF LKLD award winners! We have over 120 categories, from the best pizza to the best dog groomer, and we asked our readers to vote from June 1 through July 28. There were no nominations, multiple choice, or “pay to play” votes. Just a blank space for you to write your answers in. This year, we received more votes than ever before. Thousands of you took the time to vote for your favorite local businesses and entrepreneurs, and we thank you so much.

Small businesses are important to our community. We often find them sponsoring local events, contributing to charities, and participating in community activities. Supporting them helps strengthen our community, and they make it a more interesting and lovely place to live.

Congratulations to every business that’s out there and congratulations to all of the winners this year!

Amy Sexson Editor/Partner Haven & LKLD Magazines Destroyer Media & Marketing Winter Haven Farmers Market centralfloridaTiX.com Email me: amy@destroyermedia.com

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SEPTEMBER 2024 // VOLUME 07 // ISSUE 12

CONTENTS LETTER FROM THE EDITOR............ 05 LOCAL NEWS.........................................09 TOP 10...........................................................11 COVER STORY.........................................17 FOOD & DRINK........................................18 RETAIL.........................................................28 HOME SERVICES....................................32 PRO SERVICES........................................ 38

HEALTH & WELLNESS........................ 46 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT.................52 COCKTAIL.................................................57 CHECK ME OUT.....................................59 CALENDAR..............................................60 SOLD HOMES......................................... 66 HOROSCOPES....................................... 68 #LKLDHAVEN.......................................... 69

2023 : Winter Haven Small Business of the Year

2024: Best Digital: Social Media 2023: Best Writing: Humor // Best Photo Illustration // Best Digital: Social Media // Best Digital: Podcast 2022: Best Digital: Podcast // Best Photography: Feature Image 2021 : Best Writing: Humor // Best Digital: Social Media // Best Special Theme Issue // Best Writing 2020: Best Writing: Humor // Best Digital: Social Media 2019: Best Writing: Feature // Best Advertisement: For a Client // Best Photography: Cover 2018: Best Design: Cover // Best Redesign 2017: Best Digital: Social Media

Publisher // Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com

Ad Director // Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com

Editor & Creative Director // Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com

Event Director // Lyndsey Venrick lyndsey@destroyermedia.com

Art & Production Manager // Aaron Venrick aaron@destroyermedia.com

Graphic Designer // Ella Doyle ella@destroyermedia.com

Social Media Magician // Ivy Horn ivy@destroyermedia.com

Account Representative // Jessica Parker jessica@destroyermedia.com

Social Media Manager // Prima B. prima@destroyermedia.com

Managing Editor & Writer // Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com

Contributing Writers Shannon Carnevale & Anne Yasalonis LKLDNOW

For advertising information please contact: christine@destroyermedia.com Mailing Address: PO Box 1607, Winter Haven, Florida 33881 | 863-202-9172 Haven is published twelve times a year by Destroyer Media & Marketing. Haven distributes 15,000 copies a month with 8,400 mailed to homes and 6,500 copies available at select locations throughout east Polk County.

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ELITE OFFICE LOGISTICS

Creative Solutions From One Workstation to Total Project Management Positively impacting our community & environment by providing local businesses with repurposed office furniture.

863.646.7291 || eolgroup@aol.com eliteofficelogistics.com 4779 Dranefield Rd., Lakeland, FL Experienced professionals… locally owned and veteran operated for over 30 years! havenmagazines.com

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LOCAL NEWS

WORDS Kimberly C. Moore/LkldNow.com

AUGUST PRIMARY ELECTIONS Incumbents retaining their seats: Circuit Judge Catherine Combee; Polk County School Board members William Allen and Sara Beth Wyatt; U.S. Sen. Rick Scott; and U.S. Reps.

Daniel Webster (R) and Laurel Lee (R) won and will face off with Democratic opponents on Nov. 5. County Commissioner Neil Combee defeated Gow Fields for Polk County Property Appraiser. Mike Scott defeated former County Commissioner John Hall and Ricky Shirah to win the District 5 seat on the Polk County Commission. Becky Troutman (R) won the nomination in County Commission District 1. She will face Kay Klymko (D) and writein candidate Judi New (R) on Nov. 5.

Blair Allen won as public defender for Florida’s 10th Judicial Circuit. She defeated Christopher Desrochers.

Travis Keyes takes over the District 2 seat vacated by Lori Cunningham on the school board.

ART/IFACT IS CLOSING ART/ifact Studios is closing, citing financial struggles. It is the second business in three months to leave a Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency-owned building after the owners of Yard on Mass, an entertainment venue and bar, announced in May they were having to close its doors. A third business, The Well, mistakenly believed for weeks that it would have to leave its building after the CRA sent a confusingly worded letter expressing “intent to not renew the lease.” Both ART/ifact and Yard on Mass cited financial struggles. The Well on Parker Street is operating with a profit, but the city wants to renegotiate its lease. The Lakeland CRA is a governmental agency that was created in 1977 “to help stimulate development and to address blighted conditions and disinvestment in the core of the city.”

SIMPSON PARK POOL

DOWNTOWN ART TRAIL

It will take $408,435 before the Simpson Park Pool is back up and running in early October, Lakeland parks officials told city commissioners in August. The pool has been closed since June 14 because of a liner that separated from the wall. Replacement of the liner will begin in the first week of September and take about a month to complete. The Simpson Park Pool is the only public swimming pool serving north Lakeland. It is used for swimming lessons, summer camps, and senior groups. For many children in the predominantly Black neighborhoods near the pool, it is their biggest form of summer recreation. The replacement liner is covered by a warranty, reducing the bill by $53,053. The city will pay $408,435 for installation.

Lakeland is known, in part, for its sculptures and public art. Now the city has a new way for residents and visitors to enjoy them: the Downtown Public Art Trail. The city’s website has an interactive map with information about more than two dozen artworks along a 1.7-mile route stretching from Lake Mirror and Lake Morton west to Lake Beulah. There is also a QR code for people to access the map, with a feature that can determine which art piece is closest to the user’s phone. The link is: lakelandgov.net/departments/ parks-recreation-and-cultural-arts/ arts-rec/downtown-public-art-trail.

Almost all the pieces on the trail are available for viewing 24/7, although four sculptures in Hollis Garden can only be viewed up close when the garden is open.

RAISING PROPERTY TAXES Lakeland’s property tax rate is likely to increase next year. For the past six years, Lakeland has charged property owners a “millage” rate of 5.4323. A mill is one-thousandth of a dollar, so the current tax is roughly $5.43 per $1,000 of appraised property value.

Commissioners asked Finance Director Mike Brossart to prepare two budget scenarios for consideration: * 5.5644 mills, which would cost the average homeowner $20.08 more annually. * 5.62 mills, which would cost the average homeowner $28.53 more annually. Since fiscal year 2023, the city’s recurring general fund expenses have grown by $8.774 million annually.

The City Commission will have two more budget hearings before it votes on the budget. Both are open to the public with time for public comment on Sept. 5 & 19 at 6 p.m. in the City Commission chambers.

POLK SCHOOL DISTRICT EARNS A ‘C’ The Florida Department of Education released school grades in late July, as well as grades for each school district.

Polk County trailed much of the rest of Florida, earning a C overall and ranking 51st out of the 65 districts that got scores. However, the district rose five spots from its 56th-place ranking last year, and 14 area schools saw their grades improve, with only three losing ground. District officials also noted that Polk was one point away from a B this year. The grades were based on standardized tests taken last school year and learning gains by struggling students, as well as graduation rates and participation in accelerated or career programs. Superintendent Fred Heid said he was appealing the grade.

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FSC NEW PRESIDENT

FOUR-STORY CLINIC

Jeremy Martin is the 18th president of Florida Southern College and the first new leader in 20 years following Anne Kerr’s retirement. He oversees nearly 2,700 undergraduates and another 600 graduate students. At 6’5”, Martin cuts a towering figure on campus, and yet still manages to be approachable with a warm and ready smile, along with a sense of humor.

Martin comes to Florida Southern from a 16-year career at The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, where he rose to vice president for strategy and innovation.

He developed several initiatives that improved student retention and academic performance. He also cochaired the strategic planning process, resulting in the university’s Vision 2026 strategic plan. He said he has no immediate plans to make any changes at the 141-year-old institute, the oldest private college in Florida.

Central Florida Health Care Inc. (CFHC) plans to triple the size of its Lakeland clinic just west of Bryant Stadium. The City Commission approved a zoning change for the nonprofit health care group so it can build a four-story, 34,000-squarefoot health clinic on unpaved land that is currently used as a parking lot next to CFHC’s current two-story, 11,600-square-foot building. That structure would remain in use through the construction phase and then be demolished. In 2021, CFHC provided care for more than 45,000 medical patients and 29,000 dental patients.

The organization was founded in 1972. It has 15 sites in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties, including one unique Community School Health Center at Crystal Lake Elementary School in Lakeland. CFHC also has two mobile health care units to serve the most rural areas.

POLK INSTALLS CAMERAS

PHILANTHROPISTS STEP IN

Polk County is cracking down on drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. All 511 buses in the school district’s fleet are now equipped with cameras that start recording when the stop arm has been extended. Drivers will get written warnings from Aug. 12 through Sept. 24. But after that, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office will issue $225 citations to the registered owners of vehicles caught passing stopped buses. Approximately 50,000 Polk County students ride school buses each day during the academic year.

But local drivers regularly flout laws about stopping for school buses.

School Superintendent Fred Heid said that during a single school day last year — when the district collected data for the camera proposal — bus drivers documented more than 400 instances of motorists unsafely passing a school bus after it had stopped.

Following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ unprecedented veto of the state’s entire $32 million arts budget in June, local philanthropists have raised $200,000 to help Polk County arts groups. Gifts so far: Working with the GiveWell Community Foundation and the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance, the $200,000 in gifts have been earmarked for seven local arts and cultural organizations that lost funding, officials announced.

It’s a welcome lifeline, but it doesn’t come near the $1.27 million that 14 Polk County arts groups had been slated to receive. Lakeland groups had been approved to receive $618,181. The governor’s cuts affected everything from children’s programs to the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra.

Voted Best Realtor & Best Real Estate Company

ReaIEstateGroupCentraIFlorida.com 863-680-9988

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POLK TOP 10 BETWEEN THE LINES Sept. 6 – 15 at the Lakeland Community Theatre. An empowering and enchanting new musical for anyone who has ever sought to find their place in the world. An outsider in a new town and a new school, Delilah seeks comfort in the pages of her favorite book. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com

SEVEN RIVERS WATER FESTIVAL Sept. 14, 11 am – 4 pm at Lake Silver in Winter Haven. Bring the whole family and engage in hands-on educational activities about the diverse connections that tie us all to the water quality and quantity of our local lakes, streams, and drinking water. mywinterhaven.com

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET

ATHENA AWARDS

Every Saturday from 8 am – 2 pm in downtown Lakeland along N Kentucky Ave. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

Sept. 10, noon – 2 pm at Haus 820.

The awards honor recipients and nominees celebrating outstanding leadership in business, professional excellence, community service, and support for women’s leadership potential. Keynote Speaker: Vera Jones. Purchase tickets at lakelandchamber.com.

GIRLS IN AVIATION

SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW

Sept. 21, 10 am – 2 pm at the Florida Air Museum. This is a FREE event, and participants will be able to explore the museum, participate in hands-on STEM activities in the Skylab Innovation Center, and network with the local aviation business community. Please direct questions to educate@flysnf.org.

Register online at aceedu.org.

Sept. 21, 4:30 pm at The Bike Shop of Winter Haven. As a group, you will slowly bike through downtown on the way to the free Cypress Gardens Ski show at Lake Silver, then head back to Grove Roots. All skill levels welcome, family-friendly.

More info on FB @slowrollskishow.

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BRICK-OR-TREAT GALLERY CONCERT SERIES Sept. 12, 7 pm at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. One hour | NO INTERMISSION. Cash bar and hors d’oeuvres one hour before performance. Hear the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra play live in the gallery. Purchase tickets at lkldsymphony.org.

HISPANIC HERITAGE CELEBRATION Sept. 28, 2 – 9 pm at Bonnet Springs Park. Enjoy cultural presentations and dancing, an artisan market, and concerts. There will be special offers from The Depot and Rooftop Bar, food trucks, family activities, and so much more. Admission is free and the event is open to everyone! bonnetspringspark.com

Sept. 14, 21, & 28, 10 am at LEGOLAND. Collect mounds of candy, BOO-gie down to the Disco Party Coaster, and jam out to monstrous tunes with party lights!

Watch seasonal shows and end the night with a brand-new Monster Skytacular aerial show! legoland.com/florida

LAKELAND PUNK ROCK FLEA Sept. 29, noon – 6 pm at Swan Brewing in downtown Lakeland.

Seven bands and 70+ vendors/food trucks with taxidermy, hard-to-find vinyl, up-cycled clothing, handmade jewelry, skateboarding, horror collectibles, and so much nostalgia!

More info on FB @lakelandpunkflea.

havenmagazines.com

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ORLANDO TOP 10 KAYAKING Go kayaking on crystal clear water in a crystal-clear kayak. This adventure includes a paddle upstream through Emerald Cut starting from Kings Landing. There are several deeper areas (4-6 feet deep) where you can take a quick swim. The water is 68-70 degrees year round. getupandgokayaking.com

WHISKEY BUSINESS Sept. 20, 7pm at The Plaza Live.

Taste 75+ whiskeys, spirits, and cocktails, plus craft beer, wine, and bites from top Orlando restaurants.

Guests will enjoy live music, performances, and local vendors will round out the evening. VIP experience available for additional purchase. whiskeybusinessorlando.com

HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS Select nights in September. Face ten terrifying haunted houses including Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines and Insidious: The Further. Walk (or run) through five sinister scare zones, watch live entertainment, and ride attractions at universalorlando.com.

GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY Sept. 24 – 29 at the Dr. Phillips Center. This musical reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan like you’ve never heard before. It’s 1934 in Duluth, Minnesota. Meet a group of wayward travelers whose lives intersect in a guesthouse filled with music, life, and hope. drphillipscenter.org

PUNK IN THE PARK

FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

HOWL-O-SPRINT 5K RUN

Throughout September at EPCOT. Discover Global Marketplaces with festival-exclusive kiosks serving food and specialty sips inspired by countries and cultures around the world. Hear live musical performances, and kids can participate in scavenger hunts. disneyworld.disney.go.com

Friday, Sept. 13 at SeaWorld. This is a heart-pounding sprint through the supernatural, a one-of-a-kind nighttime terror run experience.

Navigate through the dark depths of SeaWorld Orlando where eerie landscapes and harrowing scare zones await around every corner. seaworld.com

Sept. 14 at the Central Florida Fairgrounds in Orlando.

Performances include punk rock legends Alkaline Trio, The Vandals, Dead Kennedys, Black Flag, and more. The festival will feature band performances on two stages, with no overlapping set times. Craft beer tasting and VIP experiences are available. punkinthepark.com

CABARET

THE SECOND CITY

OKTOBERFEST

Sept. 25 & 26 at the Winter Park Playhouse. Darryl Reuben Hall debuts in The Winter Park Playhouse Spotlight Cabaret Series with an original solo cabaret. A truly “New York-style” cabaret, each performance is approximately 55 minutes in length with no intermission. winterparkplayhouse.org

Sept. 27 – 29 at the Dr. Phillips Center. The Second City celebrates 65 years with an anniversary show that features your favorite songs, sketches, and characters written for their stages over the years. drphillipscenter.org

Sept. 28, 5 – 11 pm at Lake Nona Town Center. Show your stuff at the stein-hoisting competition and enjoy live polka music and German-themed entertainment, an artisan market, and a full menu of traditional German cuisine from Hollerbach’s German Restaurant.

More info on FB @learnlakenona.

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TAMPA TOP 10 WAT TAMPA MARKET

HOWL-O-SCREAM

THE WAIT WAIT STAND-UP TOUR

SCIENCE AFTER DARK

ART & ACES

Every Sunday from 9 am – 1 pm at the Wat Tampa Buddhist Temple.

The market sells Thai food prepared

by Temple members. There are picnic tables by the river to enjoy the food with a great view. You don’t want to miss this. More info at wattampainenglish.com.

Sept. 6 – Nov. 2 at Busch Gardens.

Guests will interact with haunted houses, scare zones, watch sinister shows, and more. Horror lives in every dark corner, including the thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level. buschgardens.com

Sept. 7, 7 pm at the Tampa Theatre.

This is a night of stand-up comedy featuring some of Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me’s funniest panelists: Negin Farsad, Josh Gondelman, and Dulcé Sloan. Your host is veteran stand-up and Wait, Wait regular, Alonzo Bodden. tampatheatre.org

Sept. 13 at MOSI. Included with ticket are beer and wine selections, appetizers, and liquid nitrogen ice cream. Each event centers around hands-on science activities, planetarium shows, and demos specific to the theme of the evening.

18+ only. mosi.org

Sept. 13, 8 – 11 pm at the Oxford Exchange. A night of entertainment, games, and philanthropy supporting the Tampa Museum of Art. Immerse yourself in the thrill of a tropical casino night, all while supporting the mission to make art accessible to the community. tampamuseum.org

ART YARD SALE

BUDDY GUY

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

BONSAI AND BREWS

RING OF FIRE

Sept. 14, 9 am – 1 pm at the Morean Arts Center. Find great deals on art and miscellaneous items. Prices start at $1 and max out at $100.

Along with Morean-owned items, you’ll meet local artists and pick up something from them as well. moreanartscenter.org

Sept. 14 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Buddy Guy is a GRAMMY® award winner and Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Famer. He is one of the most celebrated blues guitarists of his generation, with a sound and style that embodies the traditions of classic Chicago blues with rock. rutheckerdhall.com

Sept. 24, preseason game against the Carolina Hurricanes. Sept. 27 they’re playing a preseason game against the Nashville Predators. The season begins on Oct. 12. Purchase tickets in advance. amaliearena.com

Sept. 25, 7 – 9 pm at Grand Central Brewing in St. Pete. You will learn the basics of bonsai before you pot your own and practice the pruning techniques, all while sipping on a cold one! Register at thunderstruckbonsai.com.

Sept. 25 – Oct. 20 at American Stage in St. Pete. A jukebox musical that’ll take you on a wild ride through the music of one of America’s most iconic singersongwriters, Johnny Cash. Though he is never impersonated, his life story is told through his music. americanstage.org

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BEST OF LKLD This is our BEST issue. We asked you to vote for your favorite businesses from June 1 through July 28. There were no nominations, no multiple choices, just a blank space to write your answers. This year, we received thousands of votes, more than any other year. Thank you to everyone that took the time to vote.

Putting this issue together is a labor of love. It has a special place in our hearts because we love to hear from you and we love to support and celebrate small businesses. To our winners, congratulations! Thank you for making our community better.

Your entrepreneurial spirit is shining brightly and we all see it.

The September issue is our largest issue of the year and serves as a guide for those new to the area, or for those locals who are looking for a new plumber, hair stylist, or a pizza! Keep this issue close, all year, and refer back to it for the best the community has to offer.

Without further ado, here are the official 2024 BEST OF LKLD winners in over 120 categories. Each winner comes highly recommended by our readers, your neighbors and friends.

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BEST PIZZA PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN

114 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 688-0045 FB @palacepizzadowntown IG @palacepizzadtwn palacepizzadowntown.com

This pizza place is a slice above the rest! Palace Pizza Downtown is the kingpin in the Best Pizza category, reigning year after year. With over 25 years of expertise, they serve fresh dough, top-notch tomatoes, and pure whole milk mozzarella. The Palace Pizza crew kneads traditional recipes to deliver a truly authentic Italian taste. You can get pizza by the slice or pan with options like Neapolitan, Sicilian, and Supreme, or build your own! (They even have gluten-free pizza.)

2nd: J. Burns’ Pizza Shop 3rd: Pizza Odyssey

BEST BURGER S&L RESTAURANT

2915 S Combee Rd, Lakeland (863) 665-0731 FB: S & L Restaurant A bit of a hidden gem, S&L is a micro burger shack painted white with red trim. A burger mural is painted on the building touting the best burgers in town (since 1983), followed by, “Warning… our burgers may become habitforming.” The interior is a kitschy composition of license plates, advertisements, Coca-Cola memorabilia, and cheeky signage every way you look. S&L regulars can’t stop talking about their habit-forming burgers served on red and white checkered paper. S&L burgers are unfussy and classic – a hamburger, cheeseburger, and bacon cheeseburger – all served with mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle. Make it a special with fries and add a Coke for an all-American meal.

2nd: Burger 21 3rd: The Chop Shop

BEST TACOS MEGA MERCADO MEXICAN RESTAURANT & TIENDA

2009 George Jenkins Blvd, Lakeland (863) 688-3202 FB @megamercadosupermarket IG @megamercadomexicanrestaurant Taco ‘bout the best tacos in Lakeland! Mega Mercado is an authentic Mexican restaurant

with a side market, meat department, and produce. They offer Mexican-style tacos with onion and cilantro or American-style tacos with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream.

Meat options include carnitas, barbacoa, chorizo, asada, al pastor, and more! One patron raves, “Nothing else in Lakeland compares to the food here. So authentic and delicious. Price is right too. Great atmosphere and great service. We travel from south Lakeland once a week because it’s worth it!”

sandwiches I’ve ever eaten. It was so good, I got another one to eat later. Fantastic fries also. Will definitely be coming back.”

2nd: Tapatio’s Restaurante Mexicano 3rd: Sweet Cup Cafe

1833 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland (863) 937-8940 FB @scarpasitalian IG @scarpasitalian scarpasitalian.com

2nd: Elena’s Cuban Cafe 3rd: Jessie’s Gourmet Sandwich Cafe

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT SCARPA’S ITALIAN

BEST WINGS WINNERS CIRCLE SPORTSBAR AND GRILL

Scarpa’s once again rises above the competition as the Best Italian Restaurant!

Since opening in 2013, Scarpas has cemented itself as a Lakeland Italian food institution.

The restaurant is family-owned and operated

by Glenn, former chef at Mario’s for twelve years, and Ashley Scarpa. Their menu boasts housemade pastas, and they’ve even had a visit from chef Emeril Lagassé for his show, Emeril’s Florida, in 2016. Scarpa’s prizewinning Italian fare is crafted fresh daily and made to order, so call ahead to snag a coveted Scarpa’s seat. Savor your Penne Bolognese or Veal Cannelloni with a glass or bottle from their robust wine list.

4215 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 644-9464 FB @winnerscirclelkld IG @wcsportsbar winnerscirclesportsbar.com

No fowl play here! Savory American-style bar bites, served just right. Since 2002, this family-owned sports bar has been serving up great drinks and even better times, featuring weekly events like karaoke, free poker nights, cornhole, beer pong, trivia, live DJs, and comedy shows. A true wing champ, this three-time “King of the Wing” titleholder serves Winners Circle Championship Wings, available bone-in (breaded or naked) or boneless (grilled or fried), with over 46 flavors to choose from—ranging from mild to spicy, sweet to tangy, and everything in between. Some of their unique wing flavors include Syracuse Hot, Coconut Lime, Sour Cream & Onion, PB&J, Cinnamon Chipotle, Smokehouse Maple, and many more!

2nd: Il Forno Italian Restaurant 3rd: Palace Pizza Downtown

BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT SUSHI MASA

5700 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 450-4456 FB @sushimasalakeland IG @sushimasa_lakeland sushimasaus.com

2nd: Decisions Grill & Bar 3rd: WingHouse Bar & Grill

BEST CUBAN SANDWICH

Sushi Masa is rollin’ into first place this year!

Established in 2010, Sushi Masa is known for its all-you-can-eat (AYCE) special. They offer plenty of sushi, rolls, and special rolls like the Double Crunchy Roll with sweet potato tempura and cream cheese inside with snow crab, spicy mayo, eel sauce, and crunchy on top, or the Bomb Roll with salmon, kani, and asparagus, topped with deep fried panko, sriracha, eel sauce, and wasabi mayo. One guest writes in part, “If you like sushi, you can’t miss this one! Their buffet option, especially the dinner, is absolutely phenomenal! You’ve got so many options to choose from, all of them good. They are not stingy on anything.

Dishes are very fresh and perfectly sized to allow you to enjoy the most out of them and many of them. Even their choices for dessert are delicious.”

OLE’ TAMPA CUBANS

Alamo Plaza, 4525 Florida Ave S STE 31, Lakeland (863) 583-4733 FB @OleTampaCubansLakeland IG @oletampacubans oletampacuban.com 713 N Church Ave, Mulberry (863) 943-5556 Get a taste of Tampa right here in Polk County! These can’t-miss Cuban sandwiches are crafted with slow-roasted garlic pork, Genoa salami, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles, all pressed to perfection on genuine La Segunda Cuban bread brought in fresh from Ybor City. “Whether you prefer a traditional Cuban, enjoy it a little sweet or a little spicy, we have the perfect sandwich to satisfy your cravings.” One Ole’ Tampa Cubans customer wrote, “This has to be one of the best Cuban

2nd: New Moon Sushi 3rd: Fancy Q Japanese Restaurant 19

BEST BBQ RESTAURANT MISSION BBQ

4014 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 225-8433 FB @missionbbqtheamericanway IG @missionbbq mission-bbq.com Another MISSION complete for this Lakeland BBQ champ. Meat your heart’s desire with Texas-style, oak-smoked brisket, slowsmoked pulled pork, or sample it all with a platter. Alongside Smokehouse Signatures, sandwiches, and salads, dig into homemade sides like Maggie’s Mac-N-Cheese, green beans with bacon, or baked beans with brisket. According to MISSION BBQ, “We believe there is nothing more American than BBQ. And nobodys more American than the brave men and women who have sworn to protect and serve our communities and our country. We do what we do for the love of our soldiers, firefighters, police officers, first responders—all our loved ones in service.”

2nd: Jimbo’s Pit Bar B-Q 3rd: Blue Dog Craft Barbecue

BEST DONUTS HOLE IN ONE DONUTS

Multiple Locations in Central Florida 2076 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland (863) 665-8385 FB: Hole in one donuts Lakeland LLC Nothing is below par here! Make sure you tee up some time FORE this Lakeland donut shop.

Glazed, sprinkled, cream-filled, and powdered sugar delights are all par for the course at this bakery. Hole In One Donut fans often rave about the fresh donuts and the friendly staff. One happy Hole In One customer wrote in part, “I’m absolutely obsessed with the apple fritters at Hole in One Donuts—they’re the best! But honestly, all of their options are fantastic. I’m not-so-patiently waiting for fall so I can get my hands on their pumpkin donut.”

2nd: Dunkin’ 3rd: Charlie’s Mini Donuts & Coffee

BEST SUBMARINE SANDWICH SUBS’ N SUCH

1008 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 686-9035 FB @subsnsuchlakeland subsnsuch.com Subs’ n Such had been boasting the best subs in Lakeland since 1977!

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This family-owned and operated sandwich joint offers a selection of cold, hot, and specialty subs.

One Subs ‘n Such devotee says, “Best Subs in Lakeland. The food is delicious and the staff are the best! Always love picking up from here for lunch!” Enjoy a turkey, stacked ham, Cuban, muffuletta, egg salad, pastrami, or BLT and wash it down with a milkshake. (We hear their breakfast sandwiches are pretty great too!)

have been handed down through generations.

Tapatio’s has a sprawling menu offering everything from flautas, guac, and chips and salsa to burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, and tacos. End your meal with churros and ice cream or a piece of toothsome tres leches cake. “This place always delivers a great meal. Love this authentic Mexican restaurant. Have been going here for almost 20 years. Service is great. Food is great. Staff is great.” reads one Tapatio’s five-star review.

experience, spanning over 16 years and several countries.” Chef Marcos’ culinary journey has expanded from his Cuban roots to explore Peruvian, Italian, French, Spanish, and Southern American flavors. With hundreds of five-star reviews, Nineteen61 is praised for its stellar Latin dishes, elegant ambiance, and top-notch service.

2nd: Publix 3rd: Jessie’s Gourmet Sandwich Cafe

2nd: Dona Julia’s Mexican Restaurant 3rd: Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

BEST LATIN RESTAURANT

BEST BREAKFAST RESTAURANT

TAPATIO’S RESTAURANTE MEXICANO

NINETEEN61

734 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland (863) 686-6958 FB @Tapatios tapatiosmemorial.com

This repeat Best Mexican Restaurant is spec-taco-lar! Fresh meats, produce, and ingredients are used to make authentic family recipes that

2nd: Zarza Latin Food & Grill 3rd: West Caribbean Cuban Restaurant

FAT JACK’S DELI & PUB

2940 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 687-0262 FB: Fat Jacks Deli Pub fatjacksdelipubinc.com

215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961 FB @nineteen61 IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com

Fat Jack’s Deli & Pub was established in 1963 by Jack and Stella Toro. Starting as a dishwasher in 1982, owner Mark Westfall went on to purchase the deli in 1993. Fat Jack’s loaded menu has quite a few eggcellent options including Fat Jack’s Fantastic 3 Egg Omelettes, steak and eggs, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, breakfast sammies and more! One customer called Fat Jack’s an “old school diner style with good food and good

Inspired and imaginative chefs whip up both classic and cutting-edge Latin cuisine using fresh ingredients. Nineteen61’s Chef Marcos Fernandez has “traveled to where the food takes him. This unrestricted approach translates into a diversified career of industry

people.” Another raved, “Highly recommend this place it has become the best breakfast place for me in Lakeland. And they have official New York bagels.”

2nd: First Watch 3rd: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe

BEST BRUNCH FRESCOS SOUTHERN KITCHEN & BAR

132 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 683-5267 FB @frescoslakeland IG @frescoslakeland frescoslakeland.com Frescos is the syrup to our pancakes. Dive into Sunday Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, apple bourbon monkey bread, shrimp and grits, and spicy chicken and waffles. Sip a bellini or Bloody Mary, then finish off with a sweet touch like butter pecan cake or crème brûlée. This brunch is the toast of the town.

2nd: Nineteen61 3rd: Cob & Pen - CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 -

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Let our Multi-Cocktail Competition Winners make you a drink Thank you for voting us Best Of LKLD!

Best Bar & Best Cocktails 5x Winners

2020 – 2021 – 2022 – 2023 – 2024

119 South Kentucky Ave, Lakeland 863.606.6090 // revivallakeland.com

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BEST SEAFOOD HARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE

101 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 686-2228 FB @harrys.seafood.lakeland IG @hookedonharrys hookedonharrys.com

BEST ICE CREAM

Turkish culture to the Lakeland community for over a decade with their fresh, healthy Mediterranean fare. At Cafe Zuppina, every dish is crafted from scratch using locally sourced ingredients, handpicked daily by the owners. Everything on the menu is a feast for the senses. In 2024, they set up shop in downtown Lakeland, turning a new page in their story. Cafe Zuppina has racked up plenty of well-deserved accolades!

MAYDAY ICE CREAM

2nd: Louis Pappas Fresh Greek Lakeside 3rd: Feasts of Persia

BEST CHINESE Voters are reeling in the praise for RESTAURANT Harry’s! “We’ve combined the finest Cajun, Creole, and Southern flavors with a modern twist to serve up some truly unique and awardwinning dishes.” One customer reviewed in part, “Harry’s is an amazing place for some great seafood, drinks, and atmosphere. Very authentic New Orleans cuisine. [...]” Dive into Southern seafood staples like Shrimp-N-Grits, Blackened Redfish, Harry’s Signature Crab Cakes, and Shrimp Po’Boys, and you won’t go wrong.

2nd: Fish City Grill 3rd: Bonefish Grill

BEST THAI RESTAURANT SPICE THAI & SUSHI

3895 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 709-8321 spicethaisushirestaurant.com Looking for something to Thai you over? Time to Spice it up! Spice Thai & Sushi offers a wide array of Thai dishes and sushi, as well as daily lunch and drink specials. Pad see-ew, goy see-mee, or spicy basil pasta, anyone? Their delicious red curry is cooked with your choice of meat, coconut milk, red curry, pineapple, bamboo shoots, cabbage, zucchini, bell pepper, napa, and basil leaves. One guest writes, “The best Thai food, service, and prices in Polk County. Highly recommend.

Great vegan food, too.”

2nd: Thai Oishi 3rd: Savory Thai

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT CAFÉ ZUPPINA

116 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland (863) 644-5144 FB @CafeZuppina IG @cafezuppina cafezuppina.com

PEKING HOUSE

2411 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-9022 thepekinghouse.com

640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery) FB @maydayicecream IG @maydayicecream maydayicecream.com

2nd: Reececliff Family Diner 3rd: Fat Jack’s Deli & Pub

Sprinkle some Mayday magic on your day!

This award-winning ice cream shop is truly “cone-tastic” with its homemade waffle cones and “scoop-tacular” ice cream. Their fresh-baked cones are the “waffle” of the town, offering a crunchy, aromatic touch that perfectly complements their creamy flavors.

Each batch of ice cream is housemade, delivering quality that keeps customers coming back for more. With accolades stacking up, this shop is “cone-vincingly” the best in the business!

NINETEEN61

2nd: Lakeland Ice Cream Company 3rd: Bruster’s Ice Cream

This award-winning Chinese restaurant is wok-ing its magic with delicious cuisine made to order from fresh ingredients. Peking House serves up a menu packed with classic dishes like sweet and sour chicken, lo mein, chop suey, and dumplings, plus house specials like Mandarin seafood delight. Wrap up your meal with a sweet treat of Chinese doughnuts—it’s the perfect finishing touch! “First time here and we will go back. We enjoyed the cozy atmosphere, attentive service. Fresh hot curry shrimp did not disappoint!” wrote one customer.

BEST FOOD TRUCK OUR NOIRE KITCHEN (863) 225-8055 FB @ournoirekitchen IG @ournoirekitchen ournoirekitchen.com

Offering savory soul food on the go, Our Noire Kitchen is a personal chef and catering service. They pop up all over the county, from the Winter Haven Farmers Market to Grove Roots and Catapult. According to Our Noire Kitchen, “This Black-owned catering and photography business is passionate about making—and photographing—delicious homemade meals to make your lunch or dinner celebration an event to remember.”

One customer wrote, “Some of the best food I’ve ever had. The classic jerk chicken, spicy sauce on the side. The Mac and cheese, the shrimp and grits, everything is a 10/10!”

2nd: China Wok 3rd: Ling’s Buffet

BEST RESTAURANT FOR OYSTERS FISH CITY GRILL

1485 Town Center Dr., Suite D112, Lakeland (863) 683-1243 FB @fishcitygrill IG @fishcitygrill fishcitygrill.com

2nd: Feasts of Persia 3rd: Got Desserts

Shuck yea! This Lakeland favorite serves up the inventive oyster nachos with fried oysters, chipotle tartar sauce, and fresh pico de gallo, or you can go classic with oysters on the half shell, featuring a rotating selection of Fresh Gulf Oysters and East Coast Oysters from small farms. One customer writes, “Absolutely enjoyed dining here. Came for dinner and sat at the bar. The food was delicious, and the bartender was very attentive. Highly recommend the chargrilled oysters for an appetizer and beignets for dessert!”

BEST DINER DENA’S PLACE DINER & GRILL 4525 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 937-4514 FB @DenasPlaceDiner IG @denasplacediner

“Homecooked, just like Grandma’s kitchen!”

That’s the mantra of this family-owned and operated diner. It’s been called “Lakeland’s best kept secret,” “a hidden gem,” and “If you’re looking for comfort food… this is the place!” Dena’s Place serves breakfast favorites from 7 am to 11 am, Monday to Saturday.

They offer mouthwatering daily lunch specials like chicken and dumplings, pot roast with vegetables, chicken and yellow rice, turkey and

2nd: The Peach House 3rd: Crazy Fish Bar & Grill

A Mediterranean escape, right in your backyard! Cafe Zuppina owners Berna and Erkan Nar have been serving up a slice of 23

dressing, and more. Check out their socials for updates on specials!

BEST FINE DINING 215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961 FB @nineteen61 IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com “Incredible experience. Fine Latin dining at its best in downtown Lakeland. This was a surprise birthday lunch from my hubby, and it was spot on [...],” writes one Nineteen61 patron. Nineteen61, launched in 2015 by Chef Marcos Fernandez, remains a Best of LKLD fan favorite. This swanky downtown spot “salsas” its way into hearts with a blend of authentic cuisine with menus that are “both authentic and modern in Latin culture,” fresh ingredients, and creative chefs. “At Nineteen61, we position ourselves as a benchmark for Lakeland dining. A new standard that shows what is possible – what Lakeland diners should expect from their restaurants.”

2nd: Scarpa’s Italian 3rd: The Terrace Grille

BEST PATIO DINING THE PATIO - LAKELAND 850 Tennessee Ave, Lakeland (863) 816-3101 FB: The Patio-Lakeland

String lights and lush greenery light up this central oasis. The Patio - Lakeland serves as a cozy hideaway with a menu of dishes made from top-notch seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a dining experience that’s both “fresh” and “bright,” perfect for any occasion! One reviewer raves, “A great hidden gem in the heart of Lakeland, best outdoor casual dining in town. Lots of shade and space. Professional chef’s menu, it is all surprising in a great way. Recommend escargot for a starter!”

2nd: Cob & Pen 3rd: The Peach House

BEST CASUAL DINING FOOD + BEER

3615 Florida Ave S #1350, Lakeland (863) 535-0820 FB @FoodandBeerRestaurants IG @foodand.beer eatfooddrinkbeer.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 25 -

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Food + Beer says, “Come as you are… There’s no dress code here.

You see, life is pretty serious, and once you walk through our doors, it doesn’t have to be anymore. We are serious about you having a good time and eating well.” Their elevated bar food menu is lined with burgers, nuggets and wings, handhelds, greens, bowls, and the like. And, of course, plenty of beer, including Goose Island Hazy Beer Hug, 3 Daughters St. Pete Beach Blonde Ale, Sun King Orange Vanilla Sunlight Cream Ale, and more.

2nd: The Joinery 3rd: The Back Nine

BEST BAR REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 606-6090 FB @Revivallakeland IG @revivallakeland revivallakeland.com Our ‘spirited’ voters agree—Revival is the Best Bar around! With innovative bespoke beverages and a speakeasy vibe, it’s a place that’s

simply “shaken” with charm. Sip, savor, and enjoy unmatched service in an atmosphere that’s truly “on the rocks!” An excerpt from one review reads, “Amazing craft bar with mixologists that are artists. Great service and super unique home-like vibe. It’s the kind of place you can go to even if you don’t know what you want. The staff will make you something superb. This is quickly becoming my favorite bar.”

their socials for weekly specials and save us a seat at the bar.

2nd: Vasco Sixty-One 3rd: Food + Beer

BLACK & BREW COFFEE HOUSE & BISTRO

BEST WINE MENU SCARPA’S ITALIAN

1833 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland (863) 937-8940 FB @scarpasitalian IG @scarpasitalian scarpasitalian.com

2nd: Vasco Sixty-One 3rd: Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub

BEST COCKTAILS

Best Italian Restaurant and Best Wine Menu?!

Scarpa’s is the place to go for a lovely evening out. Since opening in 2013, Scarpas has cemented itself as a Lakeland Italian food institution. Enjoy your housemade pasta with something from their extensive wine menu, including a selection of spumante, imported (from Italy and New Zealand), domestic white wines, and imported (from Italy, Argentina, and Australia) and domestic red wines. One guest writes, “My wife and I went there for dinner on my birthday. The service and the food and wine were excellent. Going again soon.”

REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 606-6090 FB @Revivallakeland IG @revivallakeland revivallakeland.com Award-winning cocktails are a “sip-tacular” hit in Swan City! Year after year, Revival takes the lead in cocktails. Patrons can enjoy a menu brimming with specialty cocktails, a full “page-turner” of Old Fashioneds, weekly specials, Tiki drinks, and more. Whether you’re into classic blends or new “mix-tures,” Revival serves up a drink for every taste! Check

2nd: Nineteen61 3rd: Food + Beer

205 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 682-1210 4209 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 250-8554 100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland (863) 500-9500 FB @blackandbrew IG @blackandbrew blackandbrew.com

The “brew-tiful” favorite offers a “latte” of options, from traditional espresso and coffee to tea, hot or frozen chocolate, frappes, featured wines, and craft beers, plus breakfast, lunch, and dinner to keep you “wellcaffeinated” and satisfied. One customer wrote of Black & Brew’s newest Florida Ave. location, “Wish I had discovered Black & Brew sooner! The food, service, and atmosphere are amazing. I come here 1-2 times per week!!

Seriously…go! This whole place is a vibe.”

2nd: Concord Coffee 3rd: Andrew’s Coffee - CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 -

Since 1997

DINE-IN CARRY OUT ORDER ONLINE CATERING

863.688.0045 114 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland FB @Palacepizzadowntown IG @palacepizzadtwn

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BEST COFFEE SHOP

Maritime SoCe Market

Maritime Coastal Cuisine & Oyster Bar The Lake House Kitchen Ripples Handcrafted Ice Cream SoCe Market

Lake House

Ripples

Hemingway’s

308 4th Street SW

Coming Soon: ATO Sushi Burritos & Poke

Come eat, drink & dine with us. havenmagazines.com

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ATO (coming soon)

Hemingway’s Cuban Kitchen

Follow us for updates & restaurant hours.

BEST U-PICK FARM

category, has truly “catered” to excellence.

They offer menus for every occasion, from breakfast to hors d’oeuvres, cold lunch to hot lunch, dinner, wedding feasts, and corporate lunch specials. After studying at The American Culinary Academy, Terrie Lobb whipped up The Docket in Bartow, where her side gig in catering proved to be a perfect blend of culinary and hospitality skills. In 2000, she launched Catering by Chef Terrie Lobb from home, personally preparing, delivering, and serving each dish. Now, over twenty years later, TLC Catering, Inc. has a recipe for success with a full-time kitchen staff and professional servers, crafting experiences that are truly “above and beyond.” One client wrote in part, “We went with Terrie Lobb for our wedding and absolutely do not regret it.

The service was fantastic, and the food was even better.”

FARMS MARKET BEST FANCY 5204 Drane Field Rd, Lakeland 478-3486 BEER LIST (813) FB @fancyfarmsinc

SWAN BREWING

115 W Pine St, Lakeland (863) 703-0472 FB @swanbrewingco IG @swanbrewing swanbrewing.com “We believe traditional beer styles are a vital part of any taproom, and new world beers highlight our spirit of innovation.”

With 40 years of brewing expertise behind their beers, you can be sure they’re “hopping” with quality. Swan’s brews celebrate the community with names like Poke County Pils and Straight Outta Lakeland. Sip on cold craft beers made from the finest (and locally sourced when possible) ingredients in a family and pet-friendly setting. Craft beer lovers will “tap” into Swan’s impressive selection across 30 taps. Cheers to another year at the top of the Best Beer List!

2nd: Cob & Pen 3rd: Food + Beer

BEST POLK COUNTY BEER THE BEAN | SWAN BREWING 115 W Pine St, Lakeland (863) 703-0472 FB @swanbrewingco IG @swanbrewing swanbrewing.com

This Untappd top-rated brew is a refreshing coconut and coffee blonde with 5.5% ABV and 15 IBU. According to Untappd, “Made with locally roasted coffee by Ethos Roasters, this beer boasts big, bold flavors and aromas of coconut and chocolate that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a mediumlight body and a smooth, creamy finish, this blonde ale is the perfect combination of crisp, refreshing beer and rich, bold coffee and coconut flavors. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a beer drinker, The Bean is sure to satisfy your cravings.”

2nd: Straight Outta Lakeland, IPA American | Swan Brewing 3rd: Poke County Pils, Pilsner German | Swan Brewing

IG @fancyfarmsmarket fancyfarmsmarket.com Carl and Dee Dee Grooms planted the seeds of this family-owned strawberry farm and market in 1974 with just 15 acres of strawberries. Their son Dustin and daughter Kristi later joined the family strawberry”patch.

Today, Fancy Farms is “berry” much in business from December to June on nearly 125 acres, offering local produce, fresh flowers (mid-May through the end of June), and delicious seasonal treats like strawberry shortcake, strawberry, peach, and blackberry cobbler, hand-spun strawberry, blueberry, peach milkshakes, strawberry, blueberry, and peach lemonade. “Once you have a taste of our berries – you’ll see just how fancy they are!”

2nd: Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar 3rd: Cob & Pen

BEST VEGAN FOOD VEGETATION CAFE & KITCHEN

2nd: Keel Farms 3rd: Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland (863) 216-8534 FB @vegetationplantfood IG @vegetationplantfood vegetationplantfood.com

BEST NEW RESTAURANT FOOD + BEER

3615 Florida Ave S #1350, Lakeland (863) 535-0820 FB @FoodandBeerRestaurants IG @foodand.beer eatfooddrinkbeer.com

Serving up fresh, minimally processed, 100% vegan delights, Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen has become a Lakeland favorite. Guests can swing by to grab freshly made, ready-to-go plant-based meals, snacks, and sweets, or stay and savor the “plant-tastic” fare on-site. One patron raves, “Can’t recommend this place enough!! I’ve been going to Vegetation for over a year, and they do not disappoint! Love the healthy foods and how their menu changes weekly. Their desserts are amazing and vegan, too!!” Expect fan favorites like enchilada casserole, pesto alfredo pasta, a Korean rice bowl, and more!

Food + Beer may be the new kid on the block, but they’ve quickly become a popular foodie destination. Their elevated bar food menu is lined with burgers, nuggets and wings, handhelds, greens, bowls, and the like. And, of course, plenty of beer, including Goose Island Hazy Beer Hug, 3 Daughters St. Pete Beach Blonde Ale, Sun King Orange Vanilla Sunlight Cream Ale, and more. Sharing this sentiment with many others, one Food + Beer devotee raves, “Our new favorite sports bar!! The food is so good that we went the first night and our server showed us the whole menu and we came back the next day for brunch and again delicious fresh food! We’re going back Friday night.”

2nd: The Juice Box 3rd: Cafe Zuppina

BEST BAKERY BORN & BREAD BAKEHOUSE 1113 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 450-4513 FB @bornandbreadbakehouse IG @bornandbreadfl bornandbreadbakehouse.com

2nd: Bandidas Bake Shop 3rd: The Peach House

BEST CATERING COMPANY

Resident baking “baddie” Jenn Smurr and her team whip up fresh bread, cookies, pastries, breakfast sammies, and other handcrafted treats that the community “kneads.” Born & Bread is the go-to spot for hungry patrons craving bread, pastries, breakfast, and lunch Wednesday through Saturday. We “loaf” everything on the menu, but to be more specific, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried their B+B baked pot pie (available hot or as a

TLC CATERING

1239 E Main Street, Bartow (863) 533-6483 FB @terrie.catering IG @terrielobbcatering tlccatering.co TLC Catering, a repeat champion in this 27

take-and-bake) or their Benton’s BLT, finished with scallion cream cheese, crisp butter lettuce, and fresh tomatoes.

2nd: Bandidas Bake Shop 3rd: Meraki Bakehouse

BEST HIDDEN GEM BANDIDAS BAKE SHOP

1755 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland FB @BandidasBakeShop IG @bandidasbakeshop bandidasbakeshop.com Gabby and Gio are the oh-so-sweet couple behind this Lakeland bake shop that opened earlier this year. This bakery, cafe, and market provides seasonal daytime fare to the Lakeland community. According to Bandidas, “Our offerings are ever-changing, evolving with the seasons, and thoughtfully prepared to look and taste handmade. Our food is an homage to our upbringings as well as our experiences baking in kitchens around New York City.” A proud LGBTQ+ and womanowned business, Bandidas offers a selection of pastries, mini layer cakes, sandwiches, graband-go, and drinks. Hippie scone and Florida chai, anyone?

2nd: Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen 3rd: Amonie Jo’s Coffee Shop

BEST SERVICE NINETEEN61

215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961 FB @nineteen61 IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com This Best Fine Dining and Best Latin Restaurant winner isn’t just “dishing” out awards but also exceptional service.

Guests rave that it’s the ideal spot for a special occasion, offering world-class fare and sublime attention to detail for an unforgettable evening. One patron writes, “Absolutely amazing experience. We came for our first time to celebrate a birthday and were immediately greeted with a signed birthday card from all of the employees and glasses of champagne! Drinks were great, and the food was absolutely incredible. I got the pork shank steak, and I am not exaggerating when I say it was the best pork I have ever had in my life. Staff was friendly, atmosphere was perfect. Can’t recommend this place enough! Will certainly be coming back.”

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BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE RAFA NATURAL

244 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 712-7620 FB @RafaNaturalLakelandFl IG @rafanatural rafanatural.com

BEST GIFT SHOP SCOUT & TAG

244 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 225-2426 FB @scoutingVintage IG @scoutandtag scoutandtag.com

Customers are glowing inside and out about Rafa Natural! This downtown Lakeland mainstay offers curated products with the best natural ingredients to deliver the highest quality products. A family-owned company, Rafa features locally crafted, natural, vegan, and organic skincare and bath and body lines of products.

From face care to bath and body care, home fragrance, and more, Rafa products are always made fresh in Florida. One pampered patron writes, “I love Rafa Natural products!

Going into their downtown Lakeland shop is always a treat! The attendants are extremely knowledgeable and helpful.”

This 3500-square-foot storefront is a treasure trove of locally sourced Lakeland gifts. Scout & Tag boasts the cutest furnishings, decor, and gifts, including Lakeland-centric finds and Annie Sloan Chalk Paint products. Inside Scout & Tag, Rafa Natural adds a ‘touch’ of organic skincare with delightful soaps.

After pampering yourself, explore Scout & Tag’s seasonal items, custom pieces, apparel, accessories, bride and groom goods, baby essentials, pet products, furniture, home accents, drinkware, plants, books, paper goods, puzzles, and more! “I love this store, of course! Great items for gifts and to decorate my own house. But the owner and staff are why I return to shop! Best people to invest in!!

I love to support great folks in business!” raves one happy shopper.

2nd: Bungalow Boutique and Gifts 3rd: ICONIC Lakeland

2nd: Traditions Unlimited 3rd: Take Heart

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

BEST JEWELER

AMELIA PAIGE BOUTIQUE

3227 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 619-6269 FB @Munchels IG @munchelsfinejewelry munchels.com

223 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 500-4264 1470 Town Center Dr, Lakeland (863) 347-4020 FB @ameliapaigeboutique IG @ameliapaigeboutique ameliapaigeboutique.com

Owner Alicia Lovett and her husband opened Amelia Paige Boutique in 2016. They’ve recently opened their second location at Lakeside Village, congratulations! A repeat winner, Amelia Paige offers on-trend finds to stock your closet, from tops, bottoms, dresses, and rompers, to jewelry, accessories, shoes, and gifts. One customer writes, “I love everything about this store! Amazing quality products and friendly staff. I get so many compliments on my purchases from this amazing boutique! Amelia Paige carries many sizes, and I always find exactly what I am looking for, from vacation to everyday wear and amazing hats; they have it all!”

2nd: Bungalow Boutique and Gifts 3rd: Monkee’s of Lakeland

Lloyds of Lakeland is an antique treasure trove! They have been in the antique and auction business for 25 years in the same location. During the week, they run a multidealer antique mall (30 dealers) and hold auctions and estate sales on weekends.

Explore this two-story antique store for your next big find! “Worth the stop! This antique store is full of nostalgia! First of all try to make it during a Saturday when the farmers market and other vendors are out. You won’t be disappointed. We usually park on the opposite end, work our way down, turn around and hit up Lloyds! It is honestly a place you can get lost in and spend quite a bit of time in. It’s a great place to find unique gifts,” writes one Lloyds of Lakeland patron.

of. Special shout out to Kyle for taking the extra couple of steps and going the extra mile.

Will ONLY use these guys from here on!” After you’re done shopping for (or selling/pawning) precious metals or firearms, stop by and give puppy Ruger a pat on the head!

2nd: Dixieland Relics 3rd: Lakeland Antique Mall

For bikes, bike rentals, accessories, disc golf, service, and more, cycle down to LeRoy’s Bikeworks. Reviews laud LeRoy’s for friendly, expedient service and reasonable prices. One happy rider wrote, “We were vacationing nearby when I discovered I had a bad rim. I called several closer bike shops, and all said I had a unique rim and they would need to order. Leroy’s had the rim I needed in stock and got me taken care of within 15 min of walking in the door. They saved our biking vacation! Great bike shop, and I would highly recommend them. Thanks again, guys!”

BEST THRIFT STORE THE SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE & DONATION CENTER 3915 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 648-0047 FB: The Salvation Army Lakeland lakeland.salvationarmyflorida.org

Clothes, shoes, purses, furniture, books, oh my! The Salvation Army Thrift Store & Donation Center is a great stop for all things second-hand. Shoppers rave about the vast selection of interesting items and friendly, attentive staff. One customer writes, “Good selection, friendly service, thankful for this store and cause for better in the world.”

According to their mission statement, “The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible.

Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.”

MUNCHEL’S FINE JEWELRY

Munchel’s Fine Jewelry is a family-owned and operated business that has made Central Florida sparkle for over 30 years. They offer a wide selection of fine jewelry, diamonds, and gemstones. They also carry a variety of luxury pre-owned timepieces, antique heirlooms, and rare coins and offer jewelry repair. One customer raves, “I have bought several pieces of jewelry from them and they are the nicest and most knowledgeable jewelers I have ever dealt with. They are happy to answer any questions and were able to repair a few of my watches with ease. They take pride in their customer service and jewelry that they have in their inventory.”

2nd: 360 Unlimited 3rd: Goodwill Lakeland Superstore

BEST PAWNSHOP WEST COAST PAWN & GUN OF LAKELAND, FLORIDA

5619 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 816-5830 FB @WestCoastPawnDeals westcoastpawn.com

2nd: Foshee Jewelers 3rd: Marshall Jewelers

West Coast Pawn & Gun is a family-owned business serving Lakeland since 2008. “We take pride in giving our customers excellent customer service while providing a relaxing atmosphere with an abundance of options.”

One customer writes, “The crew over at West Coast are incredible! They love what they do, and it shows. I have had multiple employees spend time with me to ensure I was taken care

BEST ANTIQUE STORE LLOYDS OF LAKELAND

301 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 682-2787 FB @lloydsoflakeland IG @lloydslakeland lloydslakeland.com 29

2nd: Lake Miriam Pawn 3rd: Value Pawn & Jewelry

BEST BIKE SHOP LEROY’S BIKEWORKS

6935 S Carter Rd #2, Lakeland (863) 937-9028 FB @leroysbikeworks IG @leroysbikeworks

2nd: Bent’s Schwinn Cycling & Fitness 3rd: Trek Bicycle Lakeland

BEST BOOK STORE PRESSED LKLD

213 E Bay St, Lakeland (863) 603-3166 FB @pressedlkld IG @pressedlkld pressedlkld.com Independent bookstore and coffee shop Pressed is a top pick for locals. Christina and Paul Needham opened this downtown Lakeland gem as a gathering space for people to work, read, study, and enjoy great conversations. After you grab a latte, coffee, espresso, or tea, book it over to Pressed’s curated collection of new and used books across genres. You’d be hard Pressed, not to find your next favorite book so you can sit down and stay awhile.

2nd: Inklings Book Shoppe 3rd: The Unbound Bookery - CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 -

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BEST FURNITURE STORE JUNE TAYLOR

125 N Kentucky Ave #103, Lakeland (863) 331-5873 FB @junetaylorshop IG @junetaylorshop junetaylorshop.com Looking for some abstract art to hang on your office wall or a new set of chairs to spruce up your living room? Check out June Taylor! Owners Kelly and Bill work hard to find and restore an artful amalgamation of mid-century, boho, and classical pieces for their clients. One June Taylor patron wrote in part, “June Taylor is an experience. A destination. The treasures here are top-notch. Kelly, the owner, has an incredible eye, and she has curated a shop filled with wonders. This is not a junk shop.

The finds here are of quality, even the most quirky and fun pieces.”

2nd: Ashley Store 3rd: Badcock Home Furniture &more

BEST LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET VENDOR ETHOS COFFEE ROASTERS 132 Lake Beulah Dr, Lakeland (863) 940-0060 FB @ethosroasters IG @ethosroasters ethosroasters.com

Ethos Coffee Roasters prides themselves in providing the highest quality, most impactful, and ethically sourced coffee beans shipped directly from their roastery to your doorstep (or picked up at the farmers market, of course). Ethos says, “Our passion for coffee is only surpassed by our passion for making a difference in the lives of small coffee farmers, championing life-changing prices for their most exquisite coffees. No large ‘Estate’ coffees, no plantations, no championing of 10cent “Fair-Trade” premiums, no tolerance of underpaid and child labor - Greatness for us is not just taste, it’s impact!”

2nd: Botany Cats 3rd: Pinoy Cravings - CONTINUED ON PAGE 32 -

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BEST REALTOR GATE ARTY | GATE ARTY & THE GROUP KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

208 E Pine St, Lakeland (863) 680-9988 FB @lakelandfloridarealestate realestategroupcentralflorida.com

Lakeland real estate agent Gate Arty was born in Bangkok, Thailand. His family immigrated to the United States in 1978. He’s been a Lakeland resident since childhood and is proud to call it “home.” According to Arty, “I believe that cultivating true relationships and forming strong bonds is critical to happiness and success in business and in life. If you would like to talk about real estate and require an individual that is passionate about what they do, I believe I can be your real estate advisor.” One client writes, “It was a pleasure to work with Gate Arty, whose experience, knowledge, and professionalism was instrumental in the process of selling our house!”

2nd: Tonya Regan | The McKeel Team, Keller Williams 3rd: Rafael Lozano III | La Rosa Realty Prestige

BEST REALTY COMPANY GATE ARTY & THE GROUP - KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 208 E Pine St, Lakeland (863) 680-9988 FB @lakelandfloridarealestate realestategroupcentralflorida.com

“Gate and his team always go the extra mile when representing us as a client. Highly professional team who is very knowledgeable and pays attention to details that can really matter in the final result. Their level of service is truly exceptional,” raves one recent Gate Arty & the Group client. Gate Arty & the Group is your go-to for home buying and selling in greater Central Florida.

Their professional, homegrown real estate professionals will guide you through the entire real estate home buying and selling process.

This Lakeland group is annually recognized by the Wall Street Journal & REAL Trends as one of the nation’s top-selling real estate teams.

2nd: The Mahoney Group 3rd: Next Step Home Team

BEST MORTGAGE BROKER COMPASS MORTGAGE, LLC

705 E Orange St, Lakeland (863) 802-1242 FB @compassmortgagellc IG @compassmortgagellcfl compassmortgagellc.com

Need help navigating residential mortgages and refinancing?

You need Compass Mortgage! This locally owned and operated Broker offers a variety of mortgage loan products, including FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional. Compass Mortgage has access to thousands of loan products as a mortgage broker, making it easy to find a loan product that matches your situation. They call this the “Broker Advantage.” One client raves, “I can’t say enough great things about Compass Mortgage. I would highly recommend them for a home purchase or refinance. I have now bought and refinanced several times with them, and they have been able to find me amazing rates and have guided me along the whole process. They make it super easy and I know I am being well taken care of. Really enjoy working with this awesome team!”

We’re not ‘shocked’ to hear LOOK Electric is the Best! LOOK Electric is backed by 15 years of dependable electrical services and professionally licensed and certified electricians. They offer services including circuit breakers, panel changeouts, circuits, lighting, fans, surge protectors, generator hookups, boat lift docks, partial/ whole house rewires, and custom layouts.

One customer writes in part, “I recently had the pleasure of working with Look Electric Co. for some much-needed electrical upgrades in my home, and I can’t stop raving about the experience! From the moment I reached out to them, the customer service was exceptional.

The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and super responsive, making the entire process so smooth.”

2nd: Legacy Mutual Mortgage 3rd: American Liberty Mortgage

2nd: Cross Wired Electrical Services 3rd: Lewman Electric

BEST AC REPAIR

BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

PAYNE AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

RICHARD C. FOX PLUMBING

1048 E Oleander St, Lakeland (863) 686-6163 FB @PayneAir payneair.com

1103 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 816-9414 FB @richardfoxplumbing richardfoxplumbing.com

Are you ready to feel the Payne?! And

by Payne, I mean ice-cold AC! Payne Air Conditioning & Heating has built a reputation of honesty, integrity, and work ethic over their 88 years in business. Combining residential and commercial heating, cooling, and air quality services, they provide a trustworthy and affordable solution to any challenge.

Payne maintains an A+ complaint-free rating with the Better Business Bureau and provides services, including new installation, retrofit, seasonal maintenance, and repair of HVAC equipment in Lakeland and the surrounding areas. One cool client writes, “Can’t recommend them enough. Another company quoted us over $600, saying we needed a new fan motor and that they couldn’t get the part until two days later. Payne had their fabulous tech, Willow, out within a few hours who rediagnosed the issue instantly, turns out there was just a frog blocking the fan. They removed it for no extra charge after the diagnostic fee and saved us so much money. We will be using this company for all of our needs.”

Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Richard C. Fox Plumbing provides commercial and residential plumbing services. Plumbing problem in the middle of the night? They offer 24/7 emergency services too! Sewer camera, sewer jetting, water heater repair, plumbing repipes – no matter the service you need, Richard C. Fox Plumbing has a 100% satisfaction guarantee backed by a one-year warranty on all services and a manufacturer’s warranty on products. One customer wrote, “Couldn’t recommend this company highly enough! Their wonderful, knowledgeable technician came out right away (after hours) under very stressful, urgent circumstances, making the entire experience unbelievably easy and efficient. Will be very happy to choose them exclusively, moving forward!”

2nd: Curry & Co. Plumbing 3rd: Stuart’s Plumbing

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

2nd: Lakeland Air Conditioning 3rd: Wards Air Conditioning

RING CONSTRUCTION, INC.

BEST ELECTRICIAN

(863) 337-5139 FB @RingConstructionFL ringconstructionfl.com

LOOK ELECTRIC CO.

1220 George Jenkins Blvd, Lakeland (863) 859-2515 FB @LOOKelectricco lookelectricco.com

Ring Construction is really raising the roof on the competition this year! This fully licensed, bonded, and insured roofing contractor 33

is a veteran-owned small business.

Ring has provided quality roofing services to Central Florida for the last 40 years. They are large enough to handle any commercial or residential roofing need, yet small enough to monitor your roofing project from start to finish to assure complete customer satisfaction. Although they are focusing on construction now, they will raise a roof for you.

2nd: High Tower Roofing 3rd: Marshall’s LLC A/C and Roofing

BEST PATIO SCREENING COMPANY MID-FLORIDA ALUMINUM & RESCREENS (863) 289-2368 FB @Midfloridaaluminumrescreens

Mid-Florida Aluminum & Rescreens is your go-to licensed and insured full-service provider for aluminum, vinyl, and screen solutions.

They specialize in a range of services including screen rooms, seamless gutters, vinyl siding, soffit fascia, and more. Based in Polk County and serving the entire Central Florida region, they are certified dealers for top brands such as LifeStyle Screens, Mystic Motorized Screens, Genius Retractable Screens, and Rollaround Screens. This certification allows them to offer a variety of premium screen enclosures for both residential and commercial properties. Contact them today for more information or to get a free quote!

2nd: Jack Hall Jr’s Construction and Aluminum

BEST TREE TRIMMING COMPANY KIRKLAND’S TREE SERVICE 920 N Carroll Rd, Lakeland (863) 665-7291 FB: Kirkland’s Tree Service, Inc

With hurricane season in full-swing, you need to make sure the trees in your yard are in tip top shape. Kirkland’s offers topping, tree removal, cavities filled, stump removal, and insurance estimates. One Kirkland’s customer raves, “Needed a good trimming for my palm tree...made an appointment in the morning was here in the afternoon & took care of the job professionally... definitely recommend!”

2nd: Last Leaf Trees Inc 3rd: Bladescape Property Services - CONTINUED ON PAGE 35 -

LAKEFRONT LUXURY IN LAKELAND It’s good to be home

863-862-5341 carltonarmsofnorthlakeland.com

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BEST LAWN SERVICE/ LANDSCAPING MIGUEL’S LAWN MAINTENANCE, LLC

(863) 245-3526 FB: Miguel’s lawn maintenance llc The grass is greener with Miguel’s Lawn Maintenance! Looking for someone to keep your lawn in immaculate shape year-round?

Voters choose Miguel’s Lawn Maintenance. This commercial and residential Lakeland lawn care company specializes in tree services, landscaping, and lawn care, and they offer free estimates. One customer writes, “They do excellent and great work. I enjoy that they take their time to get the job done right. I have no complaints or issues with them. Keep up the great and excellent work.

Thank you for all the hard work you do and keep up the excellent work you do.”

2nd: Evolve Contracting 3rd: Bladescape Property Services

BEST FENCING COMPANY

BEST PAINTING COMPANY

PREMIUM FENCE

1555 Williamsburg Square, Lakeland (863) 698-7876 FB @premiumfencellc IG @premiumfencellc premiumfencellc.com

MBA PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING (863) 413-6624 FB @MBAPaintingPressureWashing IG @mbapainting52 mbapainting-polk.com

Premium Fence started in 2014 and offers vinyl, aluminum, chain link, wood, field, and metal fencing. Premium Fence states, “Our mission was clear from the start: to offer a fencing experience that stands out, ensuring the protection of what’s most important to you—your property, your home, your family.”

Among many glowing reviews, one client writes, “Arturo and company did a great job on our chain-link fence. We needed to finish off the yard that already had a fence and connected it perfectly even with some overgrown weeds and obstacles to work around, they did a fantastic job! I highly recommend them for any fencing needs.”

Transform your home or business with the help of MBA Painting & Pressure Washing.

They have over 30 years of experience serving Hillsborough, Polk, and surrounding counties.

MBA’s six-step process includes an initial consultation, estimate, scheduling/planning, job production, a final walk-through, and follow-up. One client leaving a five-star review writes, “MBA is my go-to for all my painting and pressure washing needs. They are on time, professional, and take service to another level, which is hard to find these days. Their craftsmanship, skill and attention to detail is unmatched. Do not hesitate to contact them for any of your painting and pressure washing needs!”

2nd: Williams Fence Co 3rd: Danielle Fence & Outdoor Living

BEST PEST CONTROL SUPERIOR SPRAY SERVICE, INC. 5611 Commercial Blvd, Winter Haven (833) 682-0700 FB @SuperiorSprayServiceInc IG @superior_spray_service superiorspray.com

Feeling ‘bugged’ at home or your business?

You need Superior Spray Service to ‘exterminate’ those worries! Founded in 2003

by Kevin Blanks, Superior offers a full range of indoor and outdoor pest control services, including termite treatments, aquatic pest management, mosquito control, lawn, shrub, and tree spraying, moss removal, and tree injections.

2nd: Josh Johnson Pest Control 3rd: Terminix - CONTINUED ON PAGE 37 -

2nd: Lakeland Color & Company 3rd: Reyes Painting

Will you help me?

45 Years Serving Polk County Animals 5850 Brannen Road S Lakeland, FL 33813 863-577-4600 www.spcaflorida.org

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BEST CONTRACTOR/ CONSTRUCTION COMPANY ARNOLD CONSTRUCTION

(863) 216-8776 FB @BuiltbyArnold IG @builtbyarnold builtbyarnold.com

Arnold Construction has forged a reputation for excellence, attention to detail, and commitment to quality. They boast over 15 years of experience in the construction industry and offer services encompassing a wide range of home improvement projects, with a focus on kitchen and bathroom remodeling and home additions. Arnold Construction says, “Our passion lies in transforming houses into personal sanctuaries where memories are made, laughter echoes, and dreams come true.”

2nd: Joe Goldsmith Construction, Inc. 3rd: Integrity Homes & Construction, Inc.

BEST POOL CONSTRUCTION GOLDSMITH POOLS

3240 N Galloway Rd, Lakeland (863) 600-4605 FB @GoldsmithPools goldsmithpools.com Goldsmith Pools is making a splash with Best of LKLD voters this summer! A leader in backyard luxury, Goldsmith Pools can create a timeless classic or a one-of-a-kind custom pool. They’ll help you every step of the way while building your personal paradise. One customer raves, “Goldsmith Pools designed and constructed an amazing backyard oasis for our family that included a pool with infinity edge spa, large sun shelf, feature wall with a 3 ft sheer waterfall, and paved deck/patio. They were always responsive to our questions and needs. We are very pleased with the finished product and would highly recommend them for your pool/spa needs!”

2nd: Griffin Pools 3rd: Caribbean Pools

BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY THE ESTATES AT CARPENTERS 1001 Carpenters Way, Lakeland (877) 849-7815 FB @TheEstatesAtCarpenters IG @theestatesatcarpenters estatesatcarpenters.com

For over 30 years, The Estates

at Carpenters have been creating a meticulously designed community where seniors can live a carefree and vibrant life in their golden years. They offer independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services. With resort-style amenities and activities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, heated swimming pool and spa, chef-prepared cuisine, a billiards room, an art studio, two libraries, a pet-friendly park, and a variety of cultural and recreational events, there’s always something fun and relaxing!

newly upgraded countertops.

Residents have access to on-site maintenance, a fitness center, a lobby to entertain family and friends, a pool, a grill station, and an on-site laundry facility.

2nd: Carlton Arms of North Lakeland 3rd: The Preserve at Lakeland Hills

BEST CLEANING COMPANY

2nd: Florida Presbyterian Homes 3rd: Mas Verde Mobile Home Estates

ONE CLEAN MOM (863) 592-2403 FB @thatonecleanmom onecleanmom.com

BEST HOTEL THE TERRACE HOTEL, TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON

Need a refresh or a deep clean? One Clean Mom is here to sweep you off your feet!

After all, they mopped the floor with the competition again this year. This Lakelandbased cleaning and organization service proudly declares, “Cleaning messes is our passion.” Owner Ashley Miller and her team offer initial/deep cleaning, standard cleans, and move-in/move-out services. Plus, One Clean Mom provides organizing solutions, with or without side-by-side with the client.

“I have used One Clean Mom’s services for a move-out and a deep clean. Both experiences were top-notch! Communication is quick and thorough. The cleaners did an exceptional job! Everyone I have encountered is friendly, professional, and dedicated to getting the job done right!” writes one squeaky-clean client.

329 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-0800 FB @TerraceHotel IG @terracehotellakeland terracehotel.com

A historic boutique hotel with a view over Lake Mirror, The Terrace provides full-service luxury just a stroll away from Munn Park.

Guests don’t have to wander far for a delicious meal, thanks to the on-site restaurant, The Terrace Grille. It features fresh, made-fromscratch dishes in an elegant dining space with floor-to-ceiling arched windows and stylish black-and-white patterned floors. The Terrace Hotel boasts 88 guest rooms and three meeting rooms, including the grand Cypress Ballroom, perfect for tying the knot or hosting corporate events. One guest wrote in part, “I really enjoyed my stay here. Service from valet to check out was exemplary. My room was on the 8th floor and felt more like a guest room in a home instead of a hotel room.”

2nd: Brothers in Arms Multi-Services Group 3rd: Busy Bees Cleaning Service

BEST STORAGE FACILITY DISCOUNT MINI STORAGE LAKELAND

2nd: Home2 Suites by Hilton Lakeland 3rd: Courtyard Lakeland

3709 Ventura Dr E, Lakeland (863) 646-6918 FB @DMSLakeland dmslakeland.com

BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY LAKE MIRROR TOWER APARTMENTS

Trust your stuff with Discount Mini Storage.

Discount Mini Storage of Lakeland has a variety of temperature- and non-temperaturecontrolled unit sizes that can help you achieve your storage solution. Their on-site management team takes pride in personal service and maintaining an extremely clean, secure, and pest-free environment to protect your business and personal valuables.

Features include block and metal construction, perimeter fencing, surveillance cameras, gated access, and on-site management, with RV and boat storage available.

130 S Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland (833) 704-6663 FB @LakeMirrorTower lakemirrortowerapts.com Lake Mirror Tower Apartments offers downtown living at its finest! The historic building was restored to provide people with a unique downtown living experience. With a convenient central locale, residents can walk to local shops, restaurants, farmers markets, and many other events. The Lake Mirror Tower Apartments feature apartment homes with lake and city views, offering one and two-bedroom floor plans with natural light, ample closet space, plank-style flooring, and

2nd: Extra Space Storage 3rd: StoreRight Self Storage - CONTINUED ON PAGE 38 -

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BEST FLORIST BLOOM SHAKALAKA

(863) 417-3007 FB: @bloom.shakalaka1 IG @bloom.shakalaka bloomshakalaka.com

Bloom Shakalaka is a flower shop that’s here to help you with all of your ‘blossoming’ needs! They offer flower wraps and arrangements, wearables, full-service event florals, subscriptions, and next-day delivery in the Lakeland area. Watch their socials for their grand opening in their new space they will be sharing with East of These. “At Bloom Shakalaka, we want to be known as the funky, fresh flower shop whose mission is to spread joy. We believe that every single bloom is a miracle of both strength and hope - and we love getting to offer that to others.”

2nd: The Petal Co. 3rd: Flowers by Edith

BEST WEDDING VENUE ULIANA ESTATE

1349 Cherry Ln, Lakeland (863) 313-0124 IG @uli.and.co ulianaestate.com Lakelanders Julie and Tim Czernek own and operate Uli & Co, Uliana Events, and The Buckingham House in the heart of Lakeland.

In 2024, The Uliana expanded to a seven-acre wedding and event venue. One client writes, “Best event space in Lakeland. Gorgeous and unique areas including inside intimate gathering and spacious outside gathering.

Perfect setting for beautiful photos. Julie and her mom are passionate about every detail and put their special touch on your vision. My daughter had her dream bday celebration thanks to Uliana Estate!”

2nd: Haus 820 3rd: Bonnet Springs Park

BEST PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

a respectful space where memories are cherished and peace can be found. Learn how we uphold these values and support you in your time of need.” Heath offers pre-plan, burial, cremation, and celebration of life services.

JONACIA RODRIGUES PHOTOGRAPHY

FB @jonaciarodriguesphotography jonaciarodriguesphotography.mypixieset.com

2nd: Coney Funeral Home 3rd: Lanier Funeral and Cremation Services

Capture something special with Jonacia Rodrigues! Originally from Kenya, Rodrigues relocated to the States in 2013 and studied photography at The New York Institution of Photography. “I pursued this line of work because I wanted to be able to provide affordable, high-quality images to every family,” says the passionate photographer.

One client writes, “Jonacia is great at taking something small and making it seem grand!

She turned my small garden wedding into something out of a fairytale. She gave us images that we will cherish forever, we couldn’t have asked for anything more. She is very creative and easy to work with.”

BEST DRY CLEANER GARMENT CARE PROS AT SOUTHSIDE CLEANERS 901 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (Second location in Plant City) (863) 688-4747 FB @SouthsideCleaners garmentcarepros.com

The clever signs might wash you in, but the top-notch dry cleaning services will keep you coming back! Garment Care Pros at Southside Cleaners have been a spotless favorite among voters. Since 1954, Southside Cleaners has provided Lakeland with laundry love through high-quality garment care. They are one of only eight companies worldwide with multiple employees who’ve pressed through the rigorous training to become certified garment care professionals (CGCP). This skilled team offers traditional dry cleaning and laundry services, weekly home/office plans, and expert historic garment and wedding gown restoration.

2nd: David Dicky Jr. 3rd: London Wilson Media

BEST EVENT ENTERTAINMENT DREAMS COME TRUE ENTERTAINMENT

5421 US Hwy 98, Lakeland (863) 944-1264 FB @DreamsComeTrueEntertainment IG @dctemagicalmemories dreamscometrueentertainment.com

2nd: Regal Cleaners 3rd: Touch of Class Dry Cleaners

BEST DAYCARE

It’s all in the name! Dreams Come True Entertainment ‘casts a spell’ on partygoers of all ages with their magical character entertainment. After all, “all it takes is faith, trust, and a little pixie dust!” With awardwinning, custom-made costumes and talented actors, each fairytale and superhero character is brought to life with an enchanting level of authenticity.

BRIGHT IMAGINATIONS LEARNING (Multiple Locations) FB: Bright Imaginations Learning Center IG @brightimaginationslearning brightimaginationslearning.com

Bright Imaginations Learning Centers of Lakeland was established in 2007 and has two Lakeland locations to meet the demand for quality childcare. Since opening, Bright Imaginations has graduated over 600 preschoolers into Polk County public, private, and magnet school systems, with school readiness rates consistently ranking in the top 5th percentile since the program’s inception.

Bright Imaginations has participated in Florida’s Early Childhood Rating Scales Pilot Programs, MMCI (Making the Most of Classroom Interactions) (QRIS) Quality Rating and Improvement Systems, realizing significant gains and recognition while maintaining status as a Florida Gold Seal Quality Program. “Daily, our goal is to provide top quality care for children 6 weeks to school age in an environment where children develop and grow to their fullest potential.”

2nd: Graingertainment

BEST FUNERAL SERVICES HEATH FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORY 328 S Ingraham Ave, Lakeland (863) 682-0111 FB @HeathFuneralChapel heathfuneralchapel.com

Heath Funeral Chapel and Crematory opened their doors on November 23, 1959, and has been a beacon of compassion and support to the Lakeland community ever since. “Whether it’s through traditional funerals or personalized cremation services, our commitment is unwavering: to create

2nd: The Nest Schools 3rd: La Petite Academy of Lakeland 39

BEST AUTO REPAIR LEVY’S IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE 833 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-7131

They take the worry out of car repairs!

Whether your A/C is blowing hot air or your check engine light is giving you the blues, Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto is the place to rev up for reliable service. Customers give high marks to Levy’s for their tireless commitment to honest service! One patron writes, “Friendly, honest, and helpful. And affordable for basic repairs and used tires. When they didn’t have what I needed, they sent me to someone who did. They feel like a family shop, not a corporation. It’s very refreshing.”

2nd: Gerald’s Automotive 3rd: Webb’s BP Services Center

BEST AUTO DEALER LAKELAND AUTOMALL

1430 W Memorial Blvd, Lakeland (863) 577-5030 IG @lakelandautomall lakelandautomall.com Lakeland Automall stands above them all!

They can give you the inside scoop on all of the latest selections from Ford to put you on track for the right pre-owned automobile (be it a Certified Pre-Owned Ford, Genesis, and Hyundai or an offering from another automaker) that caters to your specific situation and budget considerations. One happy driver raves, “Angelo was absolutely excellent. I was purchasing my vehicle from out of state, and he was absolutely amazing to work with. He always kept me up to date on everything and was always quick to respond.

Props to him and the team at Lakeland Automall.”

2nd: Fields BMW 3rd: Regal Lakeland - CONTINUED ON PAGE 41 -

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BEST CAR WASH MISTER CAR WASH

Multiple Locations mistercarwash.com

Mister Car Wash – “Inspiring people to shine!” Mister Car Wash has bubbled up as a top car wash company, dedicated to delivering a sparkling clean ride every time.

Whether you’re after a solo wash or ready to join the Ultimate Wash Club, Mister Car Wash’s team is committed to giving you a dazzling experience! One Mister Car Wash South Florida location customer wrote, “I love the membership with Mister Car Wash, it’s a great value and I can get my car washed anytime I want with unlimited washes. Employees are always friendly and welcoming.”

2nd: Waters Car Wash 3rd: Express Wash on Florida

BEST OIL CHANGE

BEST PRINT/ SIGN SHOP

LEVY’S IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE

WHATEVER TEES

833 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-7131

4020 Kidron Rd #6, Lakeland (863) 370-0740 FB @whatevertees IG @whatevertees whatever-tees.com

Voters are revving up about Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto Service! Known for its reliable and honest service, Levy’s is the pit stop you need for that overdue oil change. One customer writes, “These guys are the best. Quick service, very thorough, and great people who bent over backward to help!” Another raves, “One of the most honest shops you will ever encounter. They won’t sell you junk or anything you don’t need (or want). I guess the 40+ years or so that they’ve been a staple in the Lakeland community says a whole lot about Levy’s Imperial Tire!”

“Very nice people, reasonably priced, and the products look really good. Been using this company for a couple of years now, couldn’t be more pleased,” raves one Whatever Tees customer. This family-operated embroidery and screen printing shop focuses on quick turnaround, quality work, and customer service. “We can handle any size order, as many as you need, or just one shirt.

Whatever!” Whatever Tees can help with custom t-shirts, artwork, and embroidery, and offer no screen or set up charges.

2nd: Take 5 Oil Change 3rd: Regal Lakeland

2nd: Stationary Loft & Gift Boutique 3rd: Dixie Signs, Inc.

BEST CPA PARRISH & PARRISH CPAS, P.A.

6700 Florida Ave S STE 19, Lakeland (863) 709-8337 FB: Parrish & Parrish CPAs, P.A. parrishcpas.com Parrish & Parrish, P.A., is a Certified Public Accounting firm with locations in Lakeland and Plant City, offering a broad range of accounting, tax, and financial management services tailored to business and individual clients. Their CPA services are crafted to simplify your workload and give you more time to focus on growing your business. They stay up-to-date with tax law changes year-round to ensure you benefit from every available tax incentive.

2nd: Allison Brown, CPA 3rd: Hamic Previte & Sturwold, P.A. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 41 -

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YOU VOTED, WE WON! #1 BARBER SHOP IN LKLD

SKULLY’S BARBER SALON 863.224.3507 | 434 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland havenmagazines.com

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BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR CORE WEALTH ADVISORS

124 Florida Ave S, 4th floor, Lakeland (863) 904-4745 FB @corewealthadvisors IG @corewealthadvisors corewealth.com “The evolution of Core Wealth Advisors originated from the phrase “at the core of every decision I make” and the realization that wealth management and planning is an evolving process with discussions beyond just investments. Simply stated, Core’s boutique approach to wealth management and planning adapts to clients of a broad range of ages and earnings levels,” says CORE Wealth Advisors. Their philosophy is that money is not the first priority. CORE’s priority is helping clients curate an abundant, fulfilling life. Offering financial planning and wealth management, CORE will “implement comprehensive services and processes to grow, protect, utilize, and distribute wealth with respect to your unique needs.”

2nd: Allen & Company 3rd: Greg West | Edward Jones

BEST ATTORNEY KEVIN R. ALBAUM | CLARK, CAMPBELL, LANCASTER, WORKMAN, & AIRTH, P.A. 500 Florida Ave S # 800, Lakeland (863) 647-5337 FB @ClarkCampbellLaw cclmlaw.com

In 2015, Albaum moved to Lakeland to join Clark, Campbell, Lancaster, Workman, & Airth, P.A., where he practices in the areas of Elder Law, Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning, Guardianship, Probate Administration, Trust Administration, and Medicaid Planning. He has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2022 and again in 2023. In September 2022, Albaum was selected as a Polk Emerging Leaders Award recipient by multiple Polk County Chambers of Commerce. Albaum is currently serving as President of the Lakeland Bar Association.

2nd: Megan Lazenby | Lazenby Law 3rd: Edward P. Brandt

BEST BANK

close to 20 years. Most recently, I have been receiving regular massages. The message team at DayDreams is phenomenal. The services offered, the length of time, and the therapist are exceptional. I leave each massage fully relaxed, feeling like a ball of putty. I would highly recommend their massage services and all of their traditional spa services.”

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations FB @MIDFLORIDA IG @midflorida_creditunion midflorida.com

MIDFLORIDA, a repeat winner for Best Bank, is a not-for-profit, member-owned institution providing a range of banking services from personal and business accounts to loans, mortgages, and investments. Established in 1954 as Polk County Teachers Credit Union, it now boasts over 60 branches as Central Florida’s community credit union.

MIDFLORIDA focuses on personalized service and competitive rates: “Because your money isn’t just a string of numbers on an account statement. It’s personal—and we think the way you bank should reflect that.”

2nd: Healing Hands 3rd: Bella Viságe Medical & Aesthetic Rejuvenation

BEST MED SPA BELLA VISÁGE MEDICAL & AESTHETIC REJUVENATION 119 Traders Alley, Lakeland (863) 333-0553 FB @BellaVisageLakeland IG @bellavisagelkld bellavisagelakeland.com

2nd: Bank of Central Florida 3rd: Crews Bank & Trust

feel comfortable.

Her precision, meticulousness, and attention to detail are commendable. I was very impressed with the results. I would definitely recommend her to my friends and family!”

2nd: TrueMedSpa

BEST HAIR SALON DO OR DYE

1117 Florida Ave S Suite 101, Lakeland (863) 267-5317 FB @do.or.dye.lkld IG @do.or.dye.lkld

Mark and Jeanna Parker created Bella Viságe

BEST INSURANCE AGENT to be a beautiful place where people could

receive high-end medical rejuvenation services and a world-class aesthetic in a unique, historic spa in Downtown Lakeland. They offer a full menu of medical rejuvenation, laser, aesthetician, and health and wellness services.

From dermal fillers and cellulite treatment to laser hair removal and facials, Bella devotees rave about their atmosphere, staff, and the results they provide. One patron writes, “Bella Visage is hands down the best spa around.

Every time I go, I have a first-class experience.

The spa itself is cozy and comfortable. The staff are highly trained and skilled at their jobs. They always take time to explain things and make personalized recommendations for each client about what treatments would be best for that person. I can’t imagine going anywhere other than Bella Visage!!!”

GARLAND INSURANCE 5620 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 683-9334 1804 Florida Ave S, Lakeland FB @insurancelakelandfl garlandinsurancefl.com

Garland Insurance is a property and casualty independent family-owned agency servicing clients for over 35 years. Being an independent agent allows them to search over 50 different carriers to help you find coverage that matches your described needs. Garland offers a customized approach with experienced agents to get you fast and easy quotes and, ultimately, affordable insurance. One client writes, “The best insurance agency in the business! We have worked with Garland Insurance for years now and have sent a number of friends and family to them. If you are looking for insurance, calling Garland is a must!”

2nd: TrueMedSpa 3rd: Spa by MD

BEST PERMANENT MAKEUP

2nd: Bryce Barter 3rd: Barfield Insurance of Lakeland

GREAT BROWS

BEST SPA

My Salon, 4000 US Hwy 98 N Suite 106, Lakeland (863) 888-2443 FB @greatbrows IG @greatbrows greatbrows.com

DAYDREAMS DAY & MED SPA 1463 Town Center Dr. E, Lakeland (863) 686-5859 FB @DayDreamsDaySpaLakeland IG @daydreams.dayspa daydreamsdayspa.com

From nano brows to ombre brows, permanent eyeliner and lip blushing, and everything in between – this Lakeland studio is the place for GREAT BROWS! Their studio specializes in creating beautiful, natural-looking brows through cutting-edge techniques. One beautified customer writes, “I had a very positive experience with Kate. It was my first time getting my brows done, and she made me

Relax and let your worries melt away.

DayDreams Day & Med Spa offers spa packages, massages, facials, chemical peels, HydraFacial/Oxygeneo, permanent makeup, nails, waxing, lashes and brows, and even a kid’s spa. One pampered patron writes, “I have been a client of DayDreams spa for 43

Described as a “Trendy, modern, and upscale salon located in the Dixieland neighborhood in Lakeland,” Do or Dye offers a full menu of services to level up your locks. One client writes, “Alex masterfully highlighted and color corrected my hair! I am new to the area and am thankful that I found a great local talent.”

According to their Instagram, Do or Dye is “Lakeland’s first custom-designed hair salon, fostering the art of personal style and selfexpression.”

2nd: Studio 323 3rd: Local Remedy

BEST HAIR STYLIST SARA RAY | STUDIO 323 323 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (813) 340-8948 FB @SaraRayStylist IG @azurerays sararaystylist.com

Sara Ray is a hair and makeup artist at Lakeland’s Studio 323 salon. Ray specializes in hair and makeup for weddings, special events, theater, and costuming. She’s a color specialist offering extensions, cuts, textures, and wigs. One client raves, “ LOVE Sara Ray! She ALWAYS makes my hair BEAUTIFUL!” Showing what a creative badass she truly is, Ray’s ‘about me’ reads, “As a young mom of two kids, I never thought I would look back on 30 and say, ‘I rode my motorcycle 6,000 miles to get my cosmetology education,’ but here we are.”

2nd: Kevin Abad | Do or Dye 3rd: Aimee Dearing | Swan City Hair - CONTINUED ON PAGE 45 -

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BEST NAIL SALON PAINT NAIL BAR

1486 Town Center Drive, Lakeland (863) 777-2947 FB @paintnailbarlakeland IG @paintlakeland paintnailbar.com/lakeland-fl PAINT nailed it again this year. They’re committed to their clients’ health and the planet with their thoughtful choice of product lines. They also choose ceramic pedicure basins over whirlpool jets (which can be breeding grounds for bacteria). From cleanliness and color selection to client service and nail art, every detail has been carefully crafted and polished based on staff and client feedback.

2nd: BritBae Beauty 3rd: Noire Spa Nails

BEST TATTOO STUDIO

BEST BARBER

BLACK SWAN TATTOO

SKULLY’S BARBER SALON

Once again, Black Swan is inked at the top of the tattoo game! With a laid-back vibe, a spotless environment, and tattoos that are worth their weight in ink, they’re your go-to for body art. Since 2007, they’ve grown to a team of six artists boasting over 70 years of combined experience, skilled in every style of tattooing. One Black Swan patron writes, “Wow, 10/10 would recommend to anyone wanting a tattoo from professionals who are extremely clean, sanitary and know what they are doing.” Clients consistently rave about the level of service and quality of work they receive.

Year after year, this Best Barber went from “a tank of gas and a dream” to an awardwinning mobile and brick-and-mortar salon.

A master barber, Skully started his hair biz with house calls in 2015 and rolled out his mobile barbershop from a 32-foot RV in 2017.

Now, Skully’s Barber Salon boasts a physical location on W. Pipkin Road in Lakeland. Skully can cut, trim, and shave you with style—and yes, he does women’s hair too! One customer review reads, “Visited Skully’s for the first time.

Skully was very personable, and we talked about what would work best for me. I got an excellent haircut and will definitely be back.”

2nd: Gaslight Tattoo Company 3rd: Patterson Tattoos

2nd: My Touch Barber Shop 3rd: Fire Styles Barbershop

1119 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 937-9777 FB @blackswantattoo IG @blackswantattoo blackswantattoo.com

434 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland (863) 224-3507 FB @skullysbarbersalon IG @skullysbarbersalon skullysbarbersalon.com

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Anissa Hohnstrieter, APRN | Ana D. Lipson, M.D. | Patricia Bayshore, APRN

Dr. Lipson has been committed to her patients and the community for 24 years 210 1st Street N, Winter Haven | 863.293.4800 | Fax: 863.293.4410

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BEST GYM/ FITNESS STUDIO ADRENALINE BODY WORKS

202 Lake Miriam Dr Suite 126, Lakeland (863) 712-1653 FB: Adrenaline Body Works IG @adrenalinebodyworks adrenalinebodyworks.com Adrenaline Body Works is an exclusive 100-members-only fitness studio offering group fitness, private training, and therapeutic exercise. Members can also enjoy the benefits of a cold plunge, sauna, and recovery equipment. With a five-star rating across the board, one member writes in part, “I’ve been working out at ABW with Adam, on and off for about 7+ years. Routinely, I come back to meet new fitness goals. In 2023, I decided I’m back for good - focusing on consistency for my mental wellness. The atmosphere in the gym is always electric!

It makes me want to keep showing up, be aggressive, and better myself every day.”

2nd: The Balance Culture 3rd: Just Move

BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO KARATE BEYOND BY MASTER CHOE 4124 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 354-5467 FB @karatebeyond IG @karatebeyond karatebeyond.com

The well-structured classes at Karate Beyond are a black belt in child psychology and development. Designed to boost coordination, physical fitness, and mental toughness, they also sharpen social skills. From pre-K ninjas to kids, teens, and adults, they offer martial arts training, summer camp, and after-school pick-up. One parent writes, “Master Jae is amazing with his students. Since starting at Karate Beyond a couple months ago, my son has had a boost in his confidence. Master Jae is kind, patient, and very encouraging. My son looks forward to coming to karate every week.

I highly recommend this dojo.”

2nd: Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu 3rd: Champions Mixed Martial Arts

BEST MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY

lead pastors of Access Church. In 2007, Jason and Lis started Access as a college Bible study in their living room with 15 friends.

Today, thousands of people in Central Florida call Access Church their home. Access Church says, “We help people take the next step in their relationship with Jesus. That’s how we’re going to make a difference, and it’s the motivation behind everything we do.” One Access Church congregant writes in part, “I can’t say enough good things about Access Church. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with open arms and a genuine sense of community. The worship experience is uplifting, the sermons are both inspiring and relatable, and the leadership is truly committed to making a positive impact on people’s lives.”

SURTERRA WELLNESS

1222 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (850) 391-5455 FB: Surterra surterra.com/dispensaries/lakeland I’ll be blunt, Surterra has weeded out the competition. Their products are nurtured in their cutting-edge facility, the largest greenhouse on the East Coast, where they steer clear of harmful chemicals. With a full menu of medical cannabis offerings—prerolls, edibles, vaporizers, concentrates, oral and sublingual options, flower, topicals, and more—they’ve got all your needs covered for a highly enjoyable experience.

2nd: Lakes Church 3rd: First United Methodist Church

2nd: Trulieve Lakeland Dispensary 3rd: MÜV Dispensary Lakeland

BEST FAMILY DOCTOR JAMES G. HARDIGAN, DO | WATSON CLINIC

BEST WELLNESS STORE

1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 680-7190 FB @watsonclinicfl IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

ANTHONY’S HEALTH HUT & RESTAURANT 5329 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 644-5330 FB @anthonyshealthhut IG @anthonyshealthhut anthonyshealthhut.com

Looking for an extensive selection of health foods and products from herbs and spices to vitamins and supplements? Anthony’s Health Hut has it! This healthy haven has served Lakeland for over 30 years with tasty, feel-good food, including homemade soups and juices. The Restaurant boasts a menu brimming with bright bites, including salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, juices, and more. “This place is amazing, their expertise on their products along with their customer service is second to none. Their food is delicious and well priced, this is the place to go for an inexpensive lunch that is healthy and flavorful. Anthony, Joey and Penny are some of the sweetest people I’ve ever met and they have my business for life,” wrote one customer.

Dr. James G. Hardigan joined Watson Clinic in 2007 and specializes in Family Medicine.

He earned his DO at Nova-Southeastern University and did his internship and residency at St. Joseph Community Hospital in Mishawaka, IN. Dr. Hardigan is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Medicine and has his American Osteopathic Board of Family Medicine Certification.

One patient writes, “I would give 10 Stars if possible. Doc Hardigan is beyond PHENOMENAL!!!! He is always upbeat, with one of the best bedside manners I have ever seen. And considering some of the hospitals I have dealt with, and exposure to the medical community, it says quite a lot. He is always aware of what is going on, and his care and concern is top notch, knowledgeable, involved, and compassionate.”

2nd: Chamberlin’s Natural Foods 3rd: Your CBD Store | SUNMED

2nd: Ayesha Jafri, MD | Robinson Family Clinic 3rd: Dr. Celestino Vega

BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP

BEST PEDIATRICIAN CARA CANNON, MD | LAKESIDE PEDIATRICS

ACCESS CHURCH

(Multiple locations) FB @lakesidepeds IG @lakesidepeds lakesidepeds.com

4303 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-8100 2620 Kathleen Rd, Lakeland FB @AccessChurch IG @accesschurch access.tv

Dr. Cara Cannon was raised in Canada and moved to the States in 1996. She has an undergraduate degree from Embry–Riddle

Dr. Jason and Lis Burns are the founding and 47

Aeronautical University and a master’s degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, both in aerospace engineering. She attended medical school at the University of Colorado School of Medicine before moving to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where she completed her general pediatric residency. She returned to Colorado for two years of additional Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology training before joining Lakeside Pediatrics in 2015. Dr. Cannon is passionate about breastfeeding and is dedicated to improving breastfeeding rates in the Lakeland community. She treats ADHD, anxiety, and depression and works with patients with a history of trauma. She is board–certified in pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the AAP Section on Breastfeeding. Dr. Cannon maintains active medical staff status at Lakeland Regional Health.

2nd: Wilson Cornett, MD | Watson Clinic 3rd: Nicole A. Hinds, MD | Lakeland Regional Health

BEST EYE SPECIALIST/ OPTOMETRIST EYE SPECIALISTS OF MID-FLORIDA, P.A. 3350 Harden Blvd, Lakeland (863) 662-3010 2004 CR 540 A, Lakeland (863) 937-4515 IG @eyespecialistsmidfl eyesfl.com

What started as a modest eye-opener of an ophthalmology and optometry practice in downtown Winter Haven in the early 1960s, Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. has now grown into a visionary network with multiple locations throughout Central Florida. You don’t need a magnifying glass to see why Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida is the Best of LKLD. They focus on personalized, high-quality eye care, including ophthalmology, optometry, glaucoma, LASIK, laser surgery, cataract treatment, and eyelid lifts. Plus, they offer a full range of eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, sunglasses, frame repair, and optical accessories to keep your vision sharp and stylish!

2nd: Eyes on Lakeland 3rd: MyEyeDr. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 49 -

Your Local

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BEST ORTHOPEDIC DOCTOR ERIC DOUGLAS WICKS, MD | LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH GRASSLANDS CAMPUS 3030 Harden Blvd, Lakeland (863) 687-1250 FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth mylrh.org

Dr. Wicks brings extensive experience in Orthopedic Surgery, Athletic Training, and Chiropractic care to both his Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Sports Medicine practice, where he specializes in the evaluation, prevention, and nonsurgical and surgical treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. He currently serves as a Team Physician for Florida Southern College and previously served as a Team Physician for the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Villanova University.

Prior to earning his medical degree, Dr. Wicks worked as a Doctor of Chiropractic, Certified Athletic Trainer, and Personal Trainer.

Certified by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association and the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Dr. Wicks sees patients ages 12 years and older.

2nd: Phuc Vo, MD | Watson Clinic 3rd: Timothy Evans, MD | Lakeland Regional Health

BEST OB-GYN TAREK G. GARAS, MD | WATSON CLINIC 1755 N Florida Ave, Lakeland (863) 680-7312 FB @watsonclinicfl IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

We’re here to ‘deliver’ the good news. Dr. Tarek Garas is board-certified in OB-GYN and Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (Urogynecology). He specializes in general gynecology, advanced gynecologic surgery, bladder incontinence, bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, robotic surgery, and diVa® laser vaginal therapy. Dr. Garas is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a member of several prestigious medical

organizations, including the American Urogynecologic Society, Physicians for Women’s Health, American College of Surgeons, Florida Obstetric and Gynecology Society. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.

What accomplishment is Dr. Garas most proud of? “I am most proud of each patient I am able to help restore to health and of every baby I assisted with entering this world safely.”

ceramic options, or advanced choices like Invisalign, Damon Smile, Incognito hidden lingual braces, and In-Ovation C, they’ve got your smile covered! One patient wrote, “The staff here at the Lakeland location are fantastic. Everyone is always smiling, courteous, and helpful. Appointments were always quick and timely, but they always made sure any and all questions were answered for me. Dr. Scott and Dr. Patel are SO friendly and knowledgeable in their specialty. I had such a positive experience here with everyone through my Invisalign treatment and would definitely recommend this location for children or adults for all orthodontic needs.”

2nd: Samantha J. Curtis, MD | Watson Clinic 3rd: J. Brian Hopper, MD | Lakeland Regional Health

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON FAEZA R. KAZMIER, MD | WATSON CLINIC WOMEN’S CENTER

2nd: Agnini Family Dental 3rd: Kawveh Nofallah, DMD

1400 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 680-7676 FB @watsonclinicfl IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

BEST CHIROPRACTOR LOVE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER 5227 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland (863) 709-1600 FB @LoveChiropracticCenterFL IG @love_chiropractic lovechiropracticcenter.com

When it comes time for a little nip and tuck, we know where you can smooth out all of the wrinkles. Dr. Faeza R. Kazmier provides a variety of plastic surgery services, ranging from cosmetic procedures to reconstructive care, from her office at the Watson Clinic Women’s Center. Having completed dedicated training focused on plastic surgery, along with 18 years of experience, Dr. Kazmier seeks to help her patients achieve real, natural-looking results from head to toe. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society while at Albany Medical College. Dr. Kazmier, who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, is also an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Drs. Steve and Tiffany Love, Erika Love, and Chris Terry strive to address your problems quickly and effectively. “Many of our patients will notice a substantial difference in just a few visits. In most cases, we will set up a short-term regimen to make sure you are progressing as anticipated. If, by any chance, we are not seeing progress, we will refer you to a specialist in the area whom we trust. As always, we give you the treatment you need.

No more. No Less,” says Love Chiropractic.

One patient writes in part, “We are both patients at Love Chiropractic and couldn’t be more pleased with our individual treatment and care. This “Award Winning Facility” offers top-shelf treatment, efficient expert care, along with state-of-the-art equipment, procedures, and treatment.”

2nd: Jacob Gerzenshtein, MD 3rd: J. Scott Ferguson, DO | Watson Clinic

2nd: David Choate, DC 3rd: Kern Chiropractic Clinic

BEST DENTIST/ ORTHODONTIST

BEST HOSPITAL

SCOTT ORTHODONTICS 5030 S Lakeland Dr, Lakeland (863) 709-1941 211 6th St SE, Winter Haven (863) 299-1261 FB @DrScottSmiles IG @scottortho scottsmiles.com

LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH Multiple Locations FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth mylrh.org

Congratulations to Lakeland Regional Health for once again taking the crown as the Best Hospital! With a legacy that’s been going strong for over 100 years, this hospital continues to “deliver” outstanding outcomes and top-notch care by putting people at the heart of everything they do. They’re all about boosting lives through wellness, education, and discovery. The LRH Physician Group

Now, here’s a win that’ll make you grin! Voters continue to trust their pearly whites to the Smile Specialists at Scott Orthodontics year after year. The board-certified orthodontists provide a full range of orthodontic options for children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re looking for traditional metal braces, clear

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features over 340 doctors and providers across more than 40 specialties at over 20 locations. As one of Florida’s largest hospitals with 910 beds, Lakeland Regional Health also scores big as the second-largest private employer in Polk County, with over 7,000 staff members and a medical team of more than 700.

2nd: AdventHealth 3rd: BayCare

BEST URGENT CARE WATSON CLINIC URGENT CARE MAIN

1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 680-7271 Watson Clinic Urgent Care South 1033 North Parkway Frontage Road, Lakeland 863-647-4047 FB @watsonclinicfl IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com For those minor emergencies, illnesses, and accidents, you don’t need to rush to the emergency room. Watson Clinic Urgent Care is staffed with board-certified specialists and a highly trained team ready to tackle earaches, minor cuts and fractures, upper respiratory infections, and more. No appointment is needed, and new patients are always welcome. With on-site x-ray, laboratory, CT, and other diagnostic testing, plus medical support from skilled professionals, it’s a smart and cost-effective alternative to an emergency room visit. At Watson Clinic Urgent Care, “We Make You Feel Better Quicker.”

2nd: Lakeland Regional Urgent Care 3rd: AdventHealth Centra Care Lakeland - CONTINUED ON PAGE 51 -

GEA

R O F P U R

L O O H SC

50% OFF ALL COMPLETE PAIRS FOR KIDS (UNDER 18)

PLUS, every kid’s pair purchased will have a chance to win a Nike backpack!

40% OFF ALL 1ST OR 2ND COMPLETE PAIR

PURCHASE FOR ALL SCHOOL EMPLOYEES (WITH SCHOOL ID) PLUS, ALL SCHOOL EMPLOYEES WHO PURCHASE A COMPLETE PAIR

H S I L Y T S WITH

R A E W EYE

WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN A $100 AMAZON GIFT CARD!

30% OFF ALL COMPLETE 2ND PAIR

PURCHASES FOR EVERYONE ELSE

FREE GIFT with purchase of select top brand name frames (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST)

Lakeland-Harden 3350 Harden Blvd

Lakeland-Highlands 2004 CR 540 A

800.282.EYES(3937) • EyesFL.com • FB.com/EyesFL *Valid on new purchases only from July 19 - September 30, 2024. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions. Purchases must be a complete pair (Rx lenses and frames). See optical associate for more details.

Devoted to a Lifetime of Good Health Watson Clinic has been a proud member of this community for over 80 years. Throughout our history, we’ve delivered your children and helped them grow healthy and strong, empowered you to make the most of every moment, and nurtured your loved ones through many of life’s challenges. It’s our honor to serve you.

Central Florida’s Premier Healthcare Provider 863-680-7000 | WatsonClinic.com | havenmagazines.com

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BEST REHABILITATION SERVICES BANNASCH INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED REHABILITATION MEDICINE | LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth mylrh.org

Nestled within Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, the Bannasch Institute was crafted with insights from industry experts, care providers, and community members to ensure top-notch, coordinated, and cuttingedge services for patients and their families.

Highlights of their facility include a 32-bed unit with all private rooms, a spacious 2,300+ square foot physical therapy gym, and a cozy family area, among other features. For those seeking outpatient care, Lakeland Regional Health offers services at their award-winning Grasslands Campus and North Lakeland YMCA, including one of Polk County’s premier Pelvic Rehabilitation programs for men and women dealing with pelvic pain or urinary issues.

2nd: Leading Edge Physical Therapy 3rd: Watson Clinic

BEST MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES WALK WITH HOPE

215 E Bay St #4, Lakeland (863) 777-9184 IG @walkwithhopetherapy walkwithhope.net Walk with Hope is a team of Licensed Mental Health Counselors who provide quality therapy to individuals, couples, and families.

“Using empathy and honesty, our goal is to create a safe space for you to explore your feelings. Connect with us now and take a step towards feeling better,” says Walk with Hope.

They are committed to supporting those in the LGBTQ+ community and are proud to provide safe, respectful, and culturally informed therapy. One Walk with Hope client writes in part, “Natalie is an excellent counselor. She creates a safe space and, with each session, helps unpack layer by

BEST VETERINARIAN

layer what’s on your heart. She listens with empathy, asks thoughtful questions, and provides a high-level overview to help put things in perspective. In addition, she equips you with the tools (new skills) to help you navigate your way to a better place.”

DR. BOB IRELAN’S VETERINARY SERVICES 6804 N Socrum Loop Rd, Lakeland (863) 859-9485 FB @robertirelandvm robertirelandvm.com

2nd: Peace River Center 3rd: Atala Counseling

“Our exceptional team at Dr. Bob Irelan’s Veterinary Services in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to providing the best possible veterinary care for your pets. Your concerns are our concerns, and together, we embark on a journey to ensure the health and happiness of your furry companions throughout every stage of life.” This Lakeland vet is your complete source for pet vaccinations and a wide variety of veterinary services, including wellness care, pharmacy, dentistry, euthanasia guidance and services, geriatrics, general surgery, preventive medicine, laboratory testing and diagnostics, chronic disease and pain management, and nutrition.

One client raves, “Thank you so much! We are very happy with all the care Dr. Tony and the staff, our doggies were taken care of with great compassion, and professionalism. Lilly and Scrappy’s surgeries were a success, and I really appreciate all they did for our babies!

Dr. Bob’s Vet is the only one we would go to.

He is the best in the area!”

BEST DOGGY DAYCARE HOLLYWOOF PET RESORT 5845 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland (863) 644-8152 FB @hollywoofpetresort IG @hollywoofpetresort hollywoofpetresort.com

Your dog is the star of your household—so give them the Hollywood treatment! Hollywoof Pet Resort, previously known as Sunny Days Pet Resort, has been rolling out the red carpet for pets since 2001. Located in a tranquil spot away from traffic but close to the SPCA Adoption Center and S. Florida Avenue in South Lakeland, Hollywoof continues to expand its star-studded services, including boarding, grooming, and doggy daycare.

They believe every dog deserves their time in the spotlight. This resort ensures a safe environment, with playgroups carefully created to avoid overcrowding and large dogs kept separate from the smaller pups.

2nd: All Creatures Animal Clinic 3rd: Cleveland Heights Animal Hospital

2nd: Four Paws Only 3rd: Das Hund Haus

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BEST DOG GROOMER DOGGIE DIVAS GROOMING SALON 1633 Shepherd Rd, Lakeland (863) 337-4999 FB @Doggiedivasgrooming IG @ doggiedivasgrooming

Is your pup a total diva? Then pamper them at Doggie Divas Grooming Salon! Doggie Divas offers blueberry facials, natural skin care products, PlaqClnz dental care, and a professional grooming experience in a calm spa atmosphere. One pet dad writes, “Always a pleasure talking with them to make the appointment and pick up the doggo Niko.

Niko always looks like so sparkly & clean, they do a fantastic job getting out his Australian shepherd undercoat. Need a groomer?

Doggie Divas is the only name you need!”

2nd: Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming 3rd: Lucky Puppy Nail Specialists

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BEST PARK BONNET SPRINGS PARK

400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland (863) 732-7000 FB @BonnetSpringsPark IG @bonnetspringspark bonnetspringspark.com

Bonnet Springs Park is a landmark, spreading across 168 acres of revitalized land near downtown that once played a key role in Lakeland’s growth. This is a spot where urban charm meets natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of art, recreation, fun, and tranquility. This unique park serves as a retreat to escape, engage, and explore. The park boasts a Welcome Center with a gift shop, history gallery, and coffee nook, along with a circulator, Heritage Gardens, the Florida Children’s Museum, the Depot Cafe, a family lawn, playground, botanical gardens, butterfly house, nature center, tree house, canopy walk, and more.

2nd: Munn Park 3rd: Common Ground Playground

BEST DATE NIGHT BONNET SPRINGS PARK

400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland (863) 732-7000 FB @BonnetSpringsPark IG @bonnetspringspark bonnetspringspark.com What’s more romantic than a picnic in a beautiful park? Or how about a date at the Depot Cafe complete with a rooftop, garden, and bar? Bonnet Springs Park rests on 168 acres of repurposed land near downtown that once helped Lakeland thrive. One guest writes in part, “Love this park. We got engaged here.

It’s spacious enough that you don’t feel like you’re on top of anyone just taking a walk when you visit, and there’s plenty to do.”

2nd: The Joinery 3rd: Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre

BEST STAYCATION CAMP MARGARITAVILLE AUBURNDALE

361 Denton Ave, Auburndale (863) 455-7335 FB @campmargaritavilleauburndale IG @campmargaritavilleauburndale margaritavilleresorts.com Located in the heart of Central Florida, Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Auburndale is your ideal spot to enjoy theme parks, attractions, and all that the area has to offer. The resort offers RV sites, motorhome suites,

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

and cabana cabins to take your respite.

Camp Margaritaville Auburndale has all the relaxation or adventure you crave right in your backyard. Get into the ‘5 O’clock Somewhere’ vibe with their tiki bar, fire pits, resort pools, entertainment stage, playground, dog parks, and putting course, or plan a day with the crew hiking, biking, or sightseeing.

UNION HALL

1023 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 288-0372 FB @unionhallevents IG @unionhallevents unionhallevents.com

2nd: The Terrace Hotel Lakeland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 3rd: Streamsong Resort

Union Hall is a cozy Dixieland haven with high ceilings, charming 1920s terracotta brick, Art Deco flair, and sleek concrete bar tops. Sip on a cocktail and soak up the tunes at the bar, or reserve the space for a private event and make it a night to remember. One Union Hall patron wrote, “Great venue. My girlfriend and I have been there for Blues concerts, Rock concerts, and Line dancing with Felicia Jones. Service is great, and the staff is always friendly.” Check out their website to see what bands are coming to Union Hall next.

BEST GOLF COURSE CLEVELAND HEIGHTS GOLF COURSE 2900 Buckingham Ave, Lakeland (863) 834-2377 clevelandheightsgolf.com

It’s a hole in one for Cleveland Heights Golf Course! This 27-hole municipal gem is open to the public and offers a complete golf experience with a Pro Shop, expert instruction, practice areas, and a restaurant. They also feature a full driving range with bucket sizes ranging from small to large for your practice needs. Green fees shift with the seasons, but annual memberships keep you swinging all year. After a few rounds, swing by 1916 Irish Pub at Cleveland Heights Golf Course for some tasty chicken wings or hearty shepherd’s pie.

2nd: Swan Brewing 3rd: The Pink Piano

ANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENT THE LAKELAND CHRISTMAS PARADE On the first Thursday in December, the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland will host the 43rd Annual Lakeland Christmas Parade. This familyfriendly event has become a tried and true Lakeland tradition over the years. The parade theme for 2024 is “Christmas at Swan Lake,” spotlighting your favorite Lakeland landmarks. Wrapping up one of Lakeland’s largest annual events is a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus!

2nd: Grasslands Golf & Country Club 3rd: The Club at Eaglebrooke

BEST DANCE STUDIO HIGHLAND SCHOOL OF DANCE 6929 Old Rd 37, Lakeland (863) 644-4124 FB @HighlandSchoolofDance IG @hsd_dance_lakeland highlandschoolofdance.com

2nd: Mayfaire by-the-Lake 3rd: Lake Mirror Classic Concours and Car Show

Opened in 1974 by Jane Coyle, Highland School of Dance was taken over by now owner and director, former HSD student Hayley Amis-Stewart. They offer classes in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Modern, Musical Theater, and Acrobatics. Former Highland School of Dance students have gone on to dance in college and professionally, from Disney World and Busch Gardens to MODAS, in Broadway productions, and beyond. One dance mom and former student writes, “Highland School of Dance is by far the best dance studio in Lakeland! They are a technique-based studio with excellent teachers and incredible performance opportunities.

HSD was my second home growing up and I’m so grateful that my daughters get the chance to experience the same thing.”

BEST MUSEUM THE ASHLEY GIBSON BARNETT MUSEUM OF ART AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-7743 FB @AGBmuseum IG @agbmuseum polkmuseumofart.org

Every year, around 140,000 visitors explore The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, formerly known as Polk Museum of Art. Recently rebranded as an academic and community museum, the Museum offers free admission and regularly updated exhibits.

Patrons can marvel at their expansive collection of over 2,800 objects, showcasing contemporary art,

2nd: Ultimate Dance Center 3rd: Dancin’ 53

Asian art, pre-Columbian art, African art, and decorative art. The Museum features works from both its collection and renowned artists, including Pablo Picasso, Albert Paley, Miriam Schapiro, Andy Warhol, and more. In February 2022, they unveiled plans for a significant expansion. The $6M project, now expanded to 14,000 additional square feet, will add new gallery, classroom, and art laboratory spaces to the existing 38,000-square-foot facility, with the new twostory section planned for the northwest side of the building.

2nd: Florida Children’s Museum 3rd: Polk County History Center

BEST MURAL “MONARCH BUTTERFLIES” BY GILLIAN FAZIO 130 S. Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland

Commissioned by the Lakeland Community & Economic Development Department, Gillian Fazio was tapped to beautify the Downtown Redevelopment District. The mural is by the Lake Mirror Tower Apartments on the wall facing the lake. The mural depicts beautiful monarch butterflies fluttering from flower to flower. A Lakeland native, Fazio graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors’ Degree in Fine Arts from the University of Florida in 2017. Fazio has painted over 20 murals across Central Florida from Tampa to Anna Maria Island and describes herself as a “new age flora and fauna artist.”

2nd: “The Legend of Ondine” by Cecilia Lueza 3rd: “Watchful Woman” by Gabriela Jaxon

BEST VISUAL ARTIST SARA SAVANNAH JONES IG @Sara.Savannah.Jones sarasavannahjones.wixsite.com

Sara Savannah Jones is a visual artist working mostly with acrylic paints. She utilizes found objects, photography, drawing, painting, and recycled materials to execute her work. “I find that using recycled canvas and “found” surfaces are an essential technique to convey humanity in my work. Objects can hold the worst memories or nostalgia. A painting can make you reminisce or recoil. I aspire to discuss emotions with a visual assistance, when words fail to do the job,” says Jones.

2nd: Gillian Fazio 3rd: Bump Galletta - CONTINUED ON PAGE 55 -

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN ART.

You’re always free to come in.

World-class exhibitions, immersive programming for the whole family, and much more. Plan your visit at agbmuseum.org.

THE

ASHLEY GIBSON BARNETT MUSEUM of ART AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE

800 EAST PALMETTO STREET LAKELAND, FLORIDA 33801-5529

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BEST BAND

BEST DRAG QUEEN

THESE TIMES

MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE

Spotify @thesetimes FB @thesetimesfl IG @thesetimesfl These Times is a Florida band with a heavy heart and a punk flair, formed in 2015. Their lineup includes Skully Scott on vocals, Kurt Montroy strumming rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Aiden Headley keeping the beat on drums and vocals, Josh Hannah thumping the bass and backing vocals, and Evan Dyer shredding lead guitar and backing vocals. Dive into their easycore tunes on Spotify and follow their social media to catch their next gig—don’t miss out on their “punktastic” performances!

2nd: Almondy Brown 3rd: Fire Light Reggae

BEST HIDDEN GEM IN POLK COUNTY

FB @rosedynastyfoundation IG @rosedynastyfoundation rosedynastyfoundationinc.org

BEST LOCAL MAKER

ART/IFACT STUDIOS

Congrats to one of our favorite queens!

Momma Ashley Rose is a dazzling drag performer with a heart of gold, spreading the message that everyone is “loved, accepted, and wanted.” Together with her husband, Scott DeShazo, Momma Ashley Rose founded the Rose Dynasty Foundation, raising thousands for charities, community outreach, and non-profits through fabulous drag shows, dinners, brunches, children’s events, and variety performances. Momma’s mission is to create a safe, family-friendly space for all, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or religion, through mentoring, fundraising, community-building, and resource awareness.

2nd: Japonika Work 3rd: Marina Maroney

820 N. Massachusetts Ave., #2, Lakeland FB @artifactstudios IG @artifact_studios artifactstudios.org

WOLF IN THE WORKSHOP

ART/ifact Studios launched on March 18, 2017, as a non-profit organization focused on building a vibrant community by hosting local artists, events, and workshops. The studio is in a unique 1924 warehouse-turnedgallery space. ART/ifact houses local artists and provides a workspace away from home “to cultivate their skills, techniques, and relationships. The open floor gallery design promotes an environment of collaboration and neighborliness with other artists or visitors.” Sadly, ART/ifact Studios recently announced its closing. This beautiful, accepting, creative community space will be missed.

Wolf in the Workshop is a fiber artist making hand-tufted rugs and wall hangings, jewelry using found bones, prints, and, of course, Tuft Tiddies. One customer writes, “She makes the cutest and most thoughtful gifts! You won’t find anyone who puts more effort and love into your orders.” Expect oversized coasters and mug rugs, fancy cat prints, cool and creepy tufted rugs, boob hats, and more!

FB @wolfintheworkshop IG @wolfintheworkshop wolfintheworkshop.square.site

2nd: Bump Galletta 3rd: Swan City Ceramics

2nd: Dixieland Night Market 3rd: The Pink Piano

EXPERIENCE THE BEST

of Art and Culture An all-new exhibit for 2024, Stories in Stone features 20 mindbending stone balances created by the artist ZOTO, housed in bueautiful areas of the Gardens. This fall, experience a day like none other in the beauty of Bok Tower Gardens.

STORIES IN STONE OCTOBER 1 - NOVEMBER 30

FALL PLANT SALE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 | 9:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.

THE ART OF STONE BALANCING SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 | 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.

FALL WINE WALK PRESENTED BY FORNI DENTAL SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 | 2:00 P.M. - 5:30 P.M.

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

SPONSORED IN PART BY

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Dirty Martini 1.5 ounces gin or vodka 1 ounce olive brine .5 ounce dry vermouth In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add vodka or gin, brine, and dry vermouth. Shake for 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with olives.

Please drink responsibly.

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Check Me Out ;) THE BULLET SWALLOWER

By Elizabeth Gonzalez James

THE SEVENTH VEIL OF SALOME

By Silvia Moreno-Garcia

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

ISABEL AND THE ROGUE

By Liana de la Rosa

HOUSE OF BONE AND RAIN

By Gabino Iglesias

In 1964, when Jaime Sonoro, Mexico’s most renowned actor and singer, discovers a book telling of the horrific crimes committed by his ancestors, he must pay for their crimes unless he can uncover the truth about his grandfather, the legendary bandido El Tragabalas, The Bullet Swallower.

In 1950s Hollywood, when an unknown Mexican ingenue is cast as Salome, a star-making role in a big-budget movie about the legendary heroine, she becomes the object of envy of Nancy Hartley, a bit player who will do anything to win the fame she believes she richly deserves.

Sent to London to uncover British intelligence that might aid Mexico during the French Occupation, Isabel Luna Valdés meets her match in a rakish English captain, in the second novel of the series following “Ana Maria and the Fox.”

In Puerto Rico, five teenagers vow vengeance for their friend’s mother who was murdered by a drug kingpin, while a hurricane unleashes vengeful spirits on the island, in the new novel from the author of “The Devil Takes You Home.”

MY SIDE OF THE RIVER

By Elizabeth Camarillo Gutierrez

CLAP WHEN YOU LAND

By Elizabeth Acevedo

ISLANDBORN

By Junot Díaz

Exploring separation, generational trauma and the toll of the American dream, the author recounts what happened when, at 15, her parents were forced back to Mexico, leaving her and her brother to fend for themselves as underage children affected by broken immigration laws.

Camino lives for the summers when her father visits her in the Dominican Republic. But this time, on the day when his plane is supposed to land, she arrives at the airport to see crowds of crying people.

In New York, Yahaira is called to the principal’s office, where her mother is waiting to tell her that her father has died in a plane crash. Separated by distance and their father’s secrets, they are forced to face a new reality.

MARCUS VEGA DOESN’T SPEAK SPANISH

By Pablo Cartaya After a fight at school leaves Marcus facing suspension, Marcus’s mother takes him and his younger brother to Puerto Rico to visit relatives they do not remember or have never met. While there, Marcus starts searching for his father, who left their family ten years ago and is somewhere on the island.

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Lola was just a baby when her family left the Island, so when she has to draw it for a school assignment, she asks her family, friends, and neighbors about their memories of her homeland ... and in the process, comes up with a new way of understanding her own heritage.

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

OYE

By Melissa Mogollon The baby of her large Colombian American family, Luciana, when her eccentric grandmother, Abue, moves into her bedroom, finds her wild demands, unpredictable antics and devastating secrets a welcome distraction, putting her on center stage, facing down adulthood—and rising to the occasion.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

By Yamile Saied Méndez When a girl is asked where she’s from—where she’s really from—none of her answers seems to be the right one. Unsure about how to reply, she turns to her loving abuelo for help.

He doesn’t give her the response she expects. She gets an even better one.

SEPTEMBER 2024 CAMEO WRITERS Sep 3, 2024, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Ave A NW, Winter Haven Do you like to write? Cameo Writers welcomes writers of varying ability, genre and experience. We offer knowledgeable, appreciative support and encouragement. Questions contact Beverly Lerner at bevlerner@aol.com. Or go to mywinterhaven.com.

Calling all Ladies! Get out those poodle skirts and all your favorite 50s attire. Participating Downtown Winter Haven businesses will be open late for a night of food, drink, and shopping specials. Register online for $10 at centralfloridatix.com THE RESERVE BOOK CLUB Sep 5, 2024, 6:15 PM - 7:30 PM Kelly Branch Library 404 Imperial Blvd, Lakeland In September they will be discussing “The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store” by James McBride. Registration required. lakelandpl.libcal.com

B-I-N-G-O Sep 3, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM The Joinery 640 E Main Street, Lakeland First Tuesday of every month. No buy-in, lots of prizes & drink specials. More info on FB @thejoinerylkld TRIVIA TUESDAYS Sep 3, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS FORT MYERS MUSSELS Sep 3, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland BINGO night! Single-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. milb.com/lakeland TEXAS HOLD ‘EM Sep 3, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Poker and whiskey every Tuesday night!! Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips! Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239 KNIT ONE, CROCHET TOO! Sep 4, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N Florida Ave, Lakeland No registration is required. Every Wednesday. Bring your current yarn project in and chat with other yarn fanatics. Some knowledge of either knitting or crocheting is recommended. lakelandpl.libcal.com

THURSDAY MORNING BALANCE | MINI SOUND BATH SESSIONS (30MINS) Sep 5, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Ignite the Fire Inside Wellness Studio 140 SE Plaza Road, Winter Haven a 30-minute mini-sound bath session designed to set a peaceful tone for your day. Immerse yourself in the soothing vibrations of our sound bath, a perfect blend of tranquility and rejuvenation. centralfloridatix.com AFTER HOURS Sep 5, 2024, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland First Thursday of the month. We’re staying up late! Join us for After Hours every first Thursday of the month when we give you extra hours to visit the galleries. Join the curator’s tour at 6pm. polkmuseumofart.org CLAY CLASS - PUMPKINS Sep 5, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM PicassoZ Art Cafe 4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland Create a pumpkin dish from raw clay. All children 12 and under require adult supervision. No purchase is necessary for chaperones. Class size is limited so reservations are required! This class takes place downstairs in our studio. Please allow at least 1 hour of messy fun. Only $25 + tax!

LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS FORT MYERS MUSSELS Sep 4, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland Cheer on your hometown team! Single-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. milb.com/lakeland

LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS FORT MYERS MUSSELS Sep 5, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland Trivia Night! Single-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. milb.com/lakeland TRIVIA THURSDAY Sep 5, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity.

Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play.

More info on FB @TriviosityLive EMPOWERED WOMEN IN BUSINESS BREAKFAST MEETUP Sep 6, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM The Pantry Modern Diner 2122 U.S. 92, Auburndale Join us for a morning of networking with like-minded businesswomen in the community. Connect, share, learn, advise, and grow your network. RSVP To Save Your Spot, Free Event. Hosted By Blangelika’s Boutique. blangelikasboutique.com YOGA FOR OSTEOPOROSIS EVERY FRIDAY MORNING Sep 6, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Reverse bone loss and improve your bone strength with 12 yoga poses, researched and supported to do just that by Dr. Loren Fishman. Give yourself one hour of slower paced yoga to open the body, connect with the breath and calm the mind. Sign up on our website winterhavenyoga.com.

GROWING AND COOKING WITH EDIBLE FLOWERS Sep 6, 2024, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven This is a hybrid workshop. You may attend in-person or virtually on Zoom. From cultivating to cooking, this engaging workshop will teach you about the unique edible flowers that grow in central Florida. Register at eventbrite under F/IFAS Extension Polk County.

LADIES NIGHT - DOWNTOWN WINTER HAVEN Sep 5, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Downtown Winter Haven 400 W Central Ave, Winter Haven

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about: * Common running injuries & contributing factors. * The role of warm-ups. * Types of warm ups. * “10 min run warm-up” example. This talk has been scheduled on First Friday so that people can plan to enjoy this 30-45 minute mini workshop and then explore downtown. centralfloridatix.com

FREE RUNNING MINI-WORKSHOP Sep 6, 2024, 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM Bespoke Physical Therapy 25 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven During this free specialty workshop, Dr. Holli Utama, a professional triathlete and Doctor of Physical Therapy will help runners (and prospective runners!) learn

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FIRST FRIDAY WINTER HAVEN + CAR SHOW Sep 6, 2024, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Downtown Winter Haven First Friday is a can’t miss event for a car show, dinner, drinks, and shopping. Guest will enjoy food and drink specials from participating restaurants, shops open late and a car show along Magnolia Ave. Catch live entertainment at multiple venues. Find more details at winterhavenfirstfriday.com.

WRC’S 40TH BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISER Sep 6, 2024, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Venue 650 650 6th Street SW, Winter Haven Celebrate the Women’s Resource Center’s 40th birthday! They will have a huge silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, food, drinks, and music. Find more info on FB @womensresourcecenteroffloridainc.

LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS FORT MYERS MUSSELS Sep 6, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland Cheer on your hometown team! Single-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. milb.com/lakeland

ADD YOUR EVENT BIRDING ON THE BOARDWALK Sep 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland, 33815, United States Start each month from 10AM – 12PM with an opportunity to hone your birding and wildlife sighting skills at the Blanton Family Lagoon.

Binoculars and birding guides are provided for guests to use during the program while you explore the plants and animals that call Bonnet Springs Park home! Join us at the Blanton Family Lagoon Observation Deck for this fun opportunity! bonnetspringspark.com

A 4-class series + grocery store tour. Designed especially for people with Type-2 diabetes (but open to those with pre-diabetes and/or caregivers of those with diabetes), this four-class series involves food demonstrations and samples of delicious, diabeticfriendly recipes; the keys to managing Type-2 diabetes, and motivation and support through connecting with others. Register at DWDwinterhaven.eventrbrite.com MONDAY MATINEE: CASABLANCA Sep 9, 2024, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Free movies! Join us for a free Monday Matinee movie, featuring films from the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 Greatest Films. mywinterhaven.com

LADIES NIGHT: SIPS & SUCCULENTS Sep 6, 2024, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Ave, Auburndale Each guest will receive all materials needed, plus appetizers will be provided. Pre-purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy. Cocktails and other adult beverages will be available for purchase throughout the event. Space is limited. centralfloridatix.com BETWEEN THE LINES Sep 6, 2024, 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Lakeland Community Theatre 121 South Lake Avenue, Lakeland September 6, 7, 8 & 13, 14, 15. An outsider in a new town and a new school, Delilah seeks comfort in the pages of her favorite book, where she feels heard and understood by the handsome Prince Oliver. Delilah discovers how to find her place in the real world while keeping her dreams alive.lakelandcommunitytheatre. com CAFFEINE & GASOLINE Sep 7, 2024, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Bonnet Springs Park 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland Roll into Bonnet Springs Park on the first Saturday of every month. All exotic, classic, luxury, hot rod, and import cars are welcome! Coffee and breakfast items will be available for purchase. If you would like to show off your ride, no registration is required. bonnetspringspark.com LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Sep 7, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM N Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Sep 7, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Downtown Winter Haven Every Saturday across from Grove Roots in Downtown Winter Haven! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

THE JOSH BLEVINS BAND LIVE Sep 7, 2024, 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale Join us for a fun night of Live Music fun by The Josh Blevins Band at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale!

Doors will open at 6:30 pm. Food & drinks available for purchase. centralfloridatix.com PARADISE MARKET Sep 8, 2024, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale This vibrant market features nearly 60 local small businesses who are sharing their unique creations. The market is indoor and on our covered porch. It is free to attend and open to the public. More info on FB @ paradisemarketfl

CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Sep 7, 2024, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Tom Fellows Community Center 207 N Blvd West, Davenport Hosted by 1845 Tap House & Haines City Rotary.

Tickets $25.00: includes unlimited samples of craft beer; VIP $40.00: includes unlimited sampling of craft beers and limited samples of specialty liquors. Tastings from 18+ Breweries; Food Trucks: Tantrums Lakeside Grill and Cooters & Smoke; Live music with Ryan McVeigh. Raffle prizes and more! centralfloridatix.com

LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS FORT MYERS MUSSELS Sep 8, 2024, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Boulevard, Lakeland Sunday Brunch! Single-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. milb.com/lakeland

DOCENT-LED TOUR Sep 7, 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Free for everyone, registration required. Join us for a docent-led tour to get a fresh look into the Museum’s featured exhibition through an informative and engaging conversation with one of our passionate docents. Registration is required. polkmuseumofart.org

MONTHLY SACRED STILLNESS: SOUND BATH, MEDITATION + PRAYER Sep 8, 2024, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Ignite the Fire Inside Wellness Studio 140 SE Plaza Road, Winter Haven This monthly Sacred Stillness experience is held the 2nd Sunday of each month to provide a safe space to reflect, meditate, pray + encourage one another. (includes a sound bath). Space is limited, please register. centralfloridatix.com

JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION Sep 7, 2024, 1:45 PM - 4:15 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland Calling all puzzle lovers! Gather your dream team of 2-4 puzzle pros and race to become the ultimate jigsaw champs of the library! Ten teams will have 120 minutes to complete a 500-piece puzzle. Registration required. lakelandpl.libcal.com

CANDLELIGHT RESTORATIVE YOGA & SOUND BOWLS Sep 8, 2024, 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street Southeast, Winter Haven Immerse yourself in a calming atmosphere as you unwind, relax, and restore both body and mind. Perfect for all levels, this tranquil session offers a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, promoting deep relaxation and inner peace. centralfloridatix.com

LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS VS FORT MYERS MUSSELS Sep 7, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland Cheer on your hometown team! Single-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. milb.com/lakeland

DINING WITH DIABETES Sep 9, 2024, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Central Florida Health Care - Winter Haven Women & Children, 201 Magnolia Avenue, Winter Haven

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CORE FLOW YOGA EVERY MONDAY Sep 9, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Designed to sculpt and strengthen your core muscles while enhancing flexibility and stability. Prepare to elevate your yoga practice with our “Core Flow” class.

This unique fusion combines the precision of isometric poses, the power of core-strengthening movements, and the serenity of traditional standing and kneeling yoga postures. Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com.

THE GENERATORS Sep 9, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland September Topic: Uploading Your Raw DNA This is an ad hoc genealogy discussion group that meets monthly from September through May. It is open to anyone interested in finding out more about genealogical resources and information. No registration required. lakelandpl.libcal.com CLAY CLASS - PUMPKINS Sep 9, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM PicassoZ Art Cafe 4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland Create a pumpkin dish out of raw clay.All children 12 and under require adult supervision. No purchase is necessary for chaperones. Class size is limited so reservations are required! Please allow at least 1 hour of messy fun. Only $25 + tax!

TRIVIA NIGHT Sep 9, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive.

THE ATHENA AWARDS Sep 10, 2024, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Haus 820 820 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland Keynote Speaker: Vera Jones. The ATHENA Awards recognize Lakeland women who embody the ATHENA International mission of authenticity, continuous learning, relationship-building, collaboration, courage, advocacy, and community contribution. Purchase tickets at lakelandchamber.com BOOKS SANDWICHED IN Sep 10, 2024, 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM - CONTINUED ON PAGE 62 -

SEPTEMBER 2024 Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland September book: “Small Mercies” by Dennis Lehane.

The group meets in the Jackson Branch Library Meeting Room on the second Tuesday of each month to talk about that month’s book. Registration required. lakelandpl.libcal.com

CHESS MEET UP Sep 11, 2024, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven All ages and abilities are welcome. Join us every second & fourth Wednesday of every month. mywinterhaven. com

THE SCIENCE SQUAD Sep 10, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland The Science Squad meets on the second Tuesday of each month, recommended for children ages 7-12 and their grown-ups, no registration required. Things could get messy, so please wear appropriate clothing! Make sure to arrive by 5:30 pm to not miss any of the fun!

Questions? Contact Cassie Walters-Shantal (863) 834-4294 or email cassandra.walters-shantal@ lakelandgov.net.

KNIT ONE, CROCHET TOO! Sep 11, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland No registration is required, meets every Wednesday.

Bring your current yarn project in and chat with other yarn fanatics. Some knowledge of either knitting or crocheting is recommended. lakelandpl.libcal.com

GREEN HAT & WHITE GLOVES LAKELAND STORIES TOUR Sep 10, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Lake Mirror, Lakeland Take a stroll around the Lake Mirror promenade while delving into Lakeland’s History with Miss Serena Bailey (the first city librarian 1929-1959). Whilst strolling around the promenade of Lake Mirror you will be regaled with tales touting personable people, premier places and the astounding achievements of the city of Lakeland. The tour begins at the Swan Statue at the foot of Main Street. Registration is required and opens the month prior to the event. lakelandpl.libcal.com TRIVIA Sep 10, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM The Joinery 640 E Main Street, Lakeland Second Tuesday of every month. No buy-in, lots of prizes and drink specials. More info on FB @thejoinerylkld TRIVIA TUESDAYS Sep 10, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive TEXAS HOLD ‘EM Sep 10, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips! Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239 MORNING BOOK CLUB Sep 11, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven September book: “The Stationary Shop” by Marjan Kamali. The Morning Book Club meets on the second Wednesday of every month. Titles include a variety of adult fiction, nonfiction and biographies. mywinterhaven.com

havenmagazines.com

CHAIR YOGA Sep 13, 2024, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Activate the muscles that help you find length up through the spine for better posture and energy flow.

Improve your balance as you create stability in your core and flexibility in your joints. Instructor: Kristie Renardson. Space is limited. Free to attend; karma donations appreciated. mywinterhaven.com GALLERY PERSPECTIVES Sep 13, 2024, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Every second Friday of each month, we invite special guests to offer unique takes on a current exhibition at the Museum, as interpreted through their individual lenses and disciplines. polkmuseumofart.org

HONORING OUR HEROES - REMEMBERING THE DAY Sep 11, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM South Central Park, Winter Haven Remembering 9/11/01. The Freedom Walk in Downtown Winter Haven starts at 5:30 p.m. The Honoring Our Heroes event in South Central Park starts at 6 p.m. mywinterhaven.com LAKELAND FOOD TRUCK RALLY Sep 12, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Munn Park 210 E Main Street, Lakeland On the 2nd Thursday of the month. 15 Trucks attend and each month is different!

Get Ready for a Night of Laughter and Fun with LAUGHS R US COMEDY, featuring The NY King of Comedy - “TALENT” With Special Guests: Ambur JamesTalent Jr., Jacoby Bruton (also your host for the evening!) Curated by DJ Kool Mike Ski. This is a BIG show! centralfloridatix.com LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Sep 14, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Sep 14, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Downtown Winter Haven Every Saturday across from Grove Roots. Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community.

We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com YOUTH SEWING SATURDAY Sep 14, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland September’s Project: Fabric Pumpkin. Older kids and teens ages 9-17 are invited to join us for a free 90-minute class for students with some sewing machine experience. Registration is required and will open one week before the class begins. lakelandpl.libcal.com

GALLERY CONCERT SERIES Sep 12, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Purchase tickets online at polkmuseumofart.org A special set of ensemble performances by The Lakeland Symphony, live in the galleries and inspired by the current exhibitions.

LINE DANCING NIGHT Sep 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale Local line dance instructor Felicia Harris Jones will be teaching several dances during the first hour, followed by two more hours of free dancing. Boots and hats are highly encouraged! Concessions and drinks will be available for purchase. centralfloridatix.com

TRIVIA THURSDAY Sep 12, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity.

Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play.

More info on FB @TriviosityLive

10TH ANNUAL 7 RIVERS WATER FESTIVAL Sep 14, 2024, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Lake Silver, Winter Haven The 7 Rivers Water Festival: Connecting and Inspiring the Polk County region with ways to protect and conserve water resources. Bring the whole family and engage in hands on educational activities about the diverse connections that tie us all to the water quality and quantity of our local lakes, streams and drinking water. This festival is brought to you by The City of Winter Haven, Polk County Utilities and The City of Lakeland. mywinterhaven.com

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: MEATLOAF: BAT OUT OF HELL Sep 12, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM RP Funding Center 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland Album will be played note for note, cut for cut. rpfundingcenter.com YOGA FOR OSTEOPOROSIS EVERY FRIDAY Sep 13, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Reverse bone loss and improve your bone strength with 12 yoga poses, researched and supported to do just that

by Dr. Loren Fishman. Give yourself one hour of slower paced yoga to open the body, connect with the breath and calm the mind. No experience necessary. All levels.

Register at winterhavenyoga.com.

BRICK-OR-TREAT Sep 14, 2024, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM LEGOLAND® Florida Resort 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven September 14, 21 & 28th. Collect mounds of candy on the best block to Trick-or-Treat around - LEGOLAND Florida Resort! BOO-gie down to the Disco Party Coaster and jam out to monstrous tunes with party lights that will make any dragon want to dance! Watch seasonal shows and end the night with a brand-new MONSTER SKYTACULAR aerial show! legoland.com/florida

STAND UP COMEDY Sep 13, 2024, 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City

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THEATRE WINTER HAVEN CHOIR Sep 14, 2024, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven The Theatre Winter Haven Choir is free and open to

MORE EVENTS ONLINE all singers ages 14 and up. Only a love of choral singing is required, no experience necessary! Rehearsals will be held from 11am-1pm every Saturday. If you have any questions, please contact: philip@theatrewinterhaven. com or sign up at theatrewinterhaven.com/academy/ community-choir MINDFUL DAY WORSHOP Sep 14, 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM 537 Berkley Road, Auburndale Immerse yourself in breathwork, meditation, and journaling to refresh, relax, and recharge your mind, body, and soul. This event is also available virtually on Zoom. blangelikasboutique.com PELAGIC MAGIC: THE GREATEST MIGRATION ON EARTH Sep 14, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales Dive into the mesmerizing world of blackwater diving, where every night, billions of oceanic creatures undertake an astonishing migration up from the depths. Science educator and photographer Kristiana unveils this spectacle through awe-inspiring nighttime underwater photography, capturing bioluminescent marvels and astonishing planktonic predators in their natural habitat below the ocean’s surface. Register online. boktowergardens.org CORE FLOW YOGA EVERY MONDAY Sep 16, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Designed to sculpt and strengthen your core muscles while enhancing flexibility and stability. This unique fusion combines the precision of isometric poses, the power of core-strengthening movements, and the serenity of traditional standing and kneeling yoga postures. Whether you’re new to yoga or seeking to refine your skills, this class is adaptable to all levels, offering modifications and challenges to suit your needs. Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com.

TRIVIA NIGHT Sep 16, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive STORYTIME IN THE FLORIDA AIR MUSEUM Sep 17, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Florida Air Museum 4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland Content is targeted for our young ones, ages 2-5.

Come join us as we bring stories to life and create amazing, interactive learning experiences for our Junior ACE’s – exploring the universe, one adventure at a time! All are welcome. aceedu.org TUESDAY BOOK CLUB Sep 17, 2024, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven September book: “Crying in H-Mart” by Michelle Zauner. The Tuesday Book Club meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 4:00 p.m. mywinterhaven.com

TEXAS HOLD ‘EM Sep 17, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips! Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239 CRAFTERNOON Sep 18, 2024, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Make a bookmark! Ages 16+, Drop-in between 3-5 p.m. to make a bookmark! Space and supplies are limited. mywinterhaven.com KNIT ONE, CROCHET TOO! Sep 18, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland No registration is required. Every Wednesday. Bring your current yarn project in and chat with other yarn fanatics. Some knowledge of either knitting or crocheting is recommended. lakelandpl.libcal.com VEGETABLE GARDENING CLASS Sep 19, 2024, 4:45 PM - 5:45 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Learn to garden in central Florida! Join the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Master Gardener Volunteers to learn about vegetable gardening. Free, registration is required. Go to sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk for more information. If you have any questions, please call 863-519-1041.

MADE @ THE LIBRARY Sep 19, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland Join us for a fun, in-person, adult craft program.

Made @ the Library will feature a new project every month. All supplies will be provided, all you need to do is register. This program is free for adults 18 and over. lakelandpl.libcal.com LAKELAND HISTORY AND CULTURE CENTER LECTURE SERIES Sep 19, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland This month’s lecture: Immigrants, The Silent Generation and Small-town Mercantile: Polk County’s Early Jews. With Dr. Catherine R. Eskin, Associate Professor of English at Florida Southern College. Head Archivist, Temple Emanuel Archive. No registration required. lakelandpl.libcal.com CLAY CLASS - LIL GHOSTS Sep 19, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM PicassoZ Art Cafe 4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland Create little ghosts from raw clay. All children 12 and under require adult supervision. No purchase is necessary for chaperones. Only $25 Tax. PAINT & POUR WITH LRC Sep 19, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM The Well 114 E Parker St., Lakeland

Paint along with celebrated Polk County artist, Sheila Vertoli, during the Learning Resource Center’s 4th annual Paint & Pour event. You will create a stunning pair of signature wine glasses. Or join us from your home, and invite friends to make it a soiree!

The cost is $100/person or $175/couple and includes painting essentials, & a finely curated charcuterie. RSVP at LRCPolk.com or call 863-6889477.

CELEBRATE WINTER HAVEN Sep 19, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Nora Mayo Hall 500 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven Celebrate Winter Haven is a night to revel in all things Winter Haven! In keeping with tradition, they will award the 98th annual Citizens of the Year Banker’s Cup Awards, and honor the Small and Large Business of the Year and the Entrepreneur of the Year. Purchase tickets at winterhavenchamber.com TRIVIA THURSDAY Sep 19, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Thursday at 7 pm. Play trivia with Triviosity.

Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play.

More info on FB @TriviosityLive YOGA FOR OSTEOPOROSIS EVERY FRIDAY Sep 20, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Reverse bone loss and improve your bone strength with 12 yoga poses, researched and supported to do just that

by Dr. Loren Fishman. Give yourself one hour of slower paced yoga to open the body, connect with the breath and calm the mind. No experience necessary. All levels.

Sign up on our website winterhavenyoga.com.

FINDING NEMO JR. Sep 20, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Theatre Winter Haven 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven Sept. 20 - 29, days and times vary. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. theatrewinterhaven.com STUCK ON THESE ISLANDS Sep 20, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Lake Wales Little Theatre 411 N 3rd Street, Lake Wales A Children’s Production Sept. 20 - 29. After stowing away in a human family’s rowboat for a day of adventure, some ants, beetles, and fleas find themselves stranded on neighboring islands in the center of a lake. Their only hope of getting back to the main shore is to fly there in a toy rocket that the family left on a different island. wlt.org LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Sep 21, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more.

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downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org YOGA IN THE GARDENS Sep 21, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales This inclusive class includes gentle yoga movements that move our spine in all directions, breathing techniques and extended relaxation infused with a sprinkling of yoga philosophy. All levels are welcome and beginners are encouraged to attend. Bring your yoga mat and join us on the Olmsted House Lawn.

Registration required. boktowergardens.org WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Sep 21, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Every Saturday across from Grove Roots in Downtown Winter Haven! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com GIRLS IN AVIATION DAY Sep 21, 2024, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Florida Air Museum 4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland All are welcome to come: families, industry members, girls, boys, anyone with an interest in aviation and aerospace. This is a FREE event, and participants will be able to explore the Florida Air Museum, participate in hands-on STEM activities in our Skylab Innovation Center, and network with our local aviation business community. Please direct any questions about the event to educate@flysnf.org. Register online at aceedu.org.

GROVE ROOTS 8TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY Sep 21, 2024, 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven CHEERS TO 8 YEARS!!! Celebrate with limited beer releases, multiple food trucks, live music all day, a huge cake, new merch including limited release anniversary shirt, and fun vendors! More info on FB @ groverootsbrewing BOARD GAMERS AT THE LIBRARY Sep 21, 2024, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

No registration required. We have the classics, as well as some games that you may not have tried before; from Apples to Apples to Zombie Dice, we have you covered! lakelandpl.libcal.com CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI TEAM SHOW Sep 21, 2024, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Lake Silver, Winter Haven On the 3rd Saturday of every month! Free ski show performed by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Bring a chair or blanket to watch the show.

Concessions are available for purchase. Bring cash for the 50/50 raffle. Pre Show is at 4:30, Ski Show at 5 pm. More info on FB @CypressGardensWaterSkiTeam

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SEPTEMBER 2024 Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive STORYTIME IN THE FLORIDA AIR MUSEUM Sep 24, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Florida Air Museum 4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland Content for ages 2-5. Come join us as we bring stories to life and create amazing, interactive learning experiences for our Junior ACE’s – exploring the universe, one adventure at a time! All are welcome, free. aceedu.org

SLOW ROLL & SKI SHOW Sep 21, 2024, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Bike Shop Of Winter Haven 249 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Join us for a free slow roll through downtown Winter Haven! Meet at The Bike Shop, as a group, we will slowly bike through downtown on the way to the free ski show at Lake Silver. We’ll take in the show and then head back to Grove Roots. This roll is for all skill levels and is family-friendly. If you need to rent a bike, contact the Bike Shop in advance to reserve one! More info on FB @slowrollskishow PARADISE MARKET Sep 22, 2024, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale This vibrant market features nearly 60 local small businesses who are sharing their unique creations. The market is indoor and on our covered porch. It is free to attend and open to the public. More info on FB @paradisemarketfl YOGA FOR PELVIC FLOOR STRENGTH Sep 22, 2024, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Are you ready to take control of your pelvic health? Join us for an exciting class that combines traditional yoga poses and breathwork to develop a strong and resilient pelvic floor. Exercises will be performed using a yoga mat, chair, and Pilates ball to target these muscles.

Wear comfortable clothes. No experience is necessary.

Sign up at winterhavenyoga.com.

CORE FLOW YOGA EVERY MONDAY Sep 23, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven Designed to sculpt and strengthen your core muscles while enhancing flexibility and stability. Prepare to elevate your yoga practice with our “Core Flow” class.

This unique fusion combines the precision of isometric poses, the power of core-strengthening movements, and the serenity of traditional standing and kneeling yoga postures. Core Flow will leave you feeling empowered, rejuvenated, and connected to your inner strength. winterhavenyoga.com TRIVIA NIGHT Sep 23, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland

havenmagazines.com

CLAY CLASS – LIL GHOSTS Sep 24, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM PicassoZ Art Cafe 4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland Create little ghosts from raw clay. All children 12 and under require adult supervision. No purchase is necessary for chaperones. Only $25 + Tax TRIVIA TUESDAYS Sep 24, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Grove Roots Brewing Company 302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive TEXAS HOLD ‘EM Sep 24, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Poker and whiskey every Tuesday night!! Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! *This event is 21 & up. More info on FB @barrel239 CHESS MEET UP Sep 25, 2024, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven All ages and abilities are welcome. Join us every second & fourth Wednesday of every month. mywinterhaven.com KNIT ONE, CROCHET TOO! Sep 25, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N Florida Ave, Lakeland No registration is required. Every Wednesday. Bring your current yarn project in and chat with other yarn fanatics. Some knowledge of either knitting or crocheting is recommended. lakelandpl.libcal.com IMPROV ACTING FOR TEENS Sep 26, 2024, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Lakeland Public Library - Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N Florida Avenue, Lakeland Teens get to create characters, act out scenes, and just have fun through a variety of games and improv exercises. No scripts, No rehearsals, everything is made up on the spot! No registration required. lakelandpl. libcal.com THE LINEUP! HOSTED BY MICKENZIE PEISHER Sep 26, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Balmoral Event Center 116 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City Here’s how it works: Each month, Mickenzie Peisher hosts and selects two musicians to feature in an

ADD YOUR EVENT unscripted, spontaneous musical session. It’s a random mix of talent coming together to create something special. This month is Beartone & John Lee Wyatt. centralfloridatix.com BSP TRIVIA NIGHT Sep 26, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland, 33815, United States On the last Thursday of every month.

Stop by and enjoy ½ off draft beer, house wine, and select liquor brands. bonnetspringspark.com TRIVIA THURSDAY Sep 26, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Play trivia with Triviosity. Themed nights on the 3rd Thursdays. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive YOGA FOR OSTEOPOROSIS EVERY FRIDAY Sep 27, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street Southeast, Winter Haven Give yourself one hour of slower paced yoga to open the body, connect with the breath and calm the mind.

We will use Dr. Loren Fishman’s series of 12 yoga poses proven to strengthen muscles and improve bone health.

No experience necessary. All levels. winterhavenyoga.com 4TH ANNUAL RALLY & RIDE OUT OF THE DARKNESS Sep 28, 2024, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus 4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland Rallying & riding in memory of those we lost to suicide; the aftermath families must face, & for those who struggle daily & need resources. This will be an escorted ride that leads to a huge community rally at the Sun-N-Fun. We will have vendors, bands, alcohol/food, & more. Co-Host with Lakeland Harley Davidson, Infidels MC of all active and retired veterans, & positive organizations to raise awareness. Polk County Sheriff/Lakeland Police will escort, along with 100 veterans. lovesurroundsyou.org

400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland Come visit Bonnet Springs Park on the 4th Saturday of each month to explore topics in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! Each month will have a new and engaging activity fit for a wide range of learners.

Stop by the Nature Center Classroom from 10AM – 12PM. bonnetspringspark.com ANNUAL FALL FEST Sep 28, 2024, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 180 S Central Ave, Bartow Main Street Bartow’s Annual Fall Festival! Head downtown to celebrate the season with a day filled with fall fun and festivities. Pick out the perfect pumpkin. Enjoy a variety of fall-themed kids’ activities.

Explore an array of craft vendors offering handmade goods! Live music will fill the air, providing a festive soundtrack for the annual fall festival. More info on FB @MainStreetBartow BIENVENIDO A BSP - HISPANIC HERITAGE CELEBRATION Sep 28, 2024, 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM Bonnet Springs Park 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland Get ready to embrace Hispanic and Latino cultures’ vibrant colors, flavors, and rhythms! This familyfriendly event is one you won’t want to miss. Enjoy cultural presentations and dancing, an artisan market, and concerts. Admission is free and the event is open to everyone! bonnetspringspark.com THE WRITE SPOT Sep 28, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland Meets the last Saturday of each month, no registration required. A safe place where people who like to write or are interested in writing can come and create in a supportive environment. Fun writing prompts, encouragement, and prizes. For more information, contact Charles Frierman at Charles.Frierman@ lakelandgov.net.

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET Sep 28, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Sep 28, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Downtown Winter Haven Every Saturday across from Grove Roots. Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community.

We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com STEM IN THE PARK Sep 28, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bonnet Springs Park

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JAKE BUSH LIVE AT CAMP MARGARITAVILLE Sep 28, 2024, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Camp Margaritaville Auburndale 361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale Jake is not only known for his deep roots in country music but also as a proud Veteran, making his performance even more meaningful. In honor of Jake’s service and to celebrate all who have served our country, we’re offering free admission to the concert for

ADD YOUR EVENT all active duty military and veterans. centralfloridatix.com LAKELAND PUNK ROCK FLEA MARKET VOL: 9 Sep 29, 2024, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Swan Brewing 115 W Pine Street, Lakeland With 7 bands and 70+ vendors/food trucks from all across FL, including weird original artwork, taxidermy, hard to find vinyl, up cycled clothing, handmade jewelry, skateboarding, eclectic home decor, horror collectables, and basically everything nostalgic! Get more info on FB @lakelandpunkflea.

serenity of traditional standing and kneeling yoga postures. Core Flow will leave you feeling empowered, rejuvenated, and connected to your inner strength.

Sign up winterhavenyoga.com.

TRIVIA NIGHT Sep 30, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen 1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive.

PINK PARTY IN THE PARK Sep 29, 2024, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM Central Park 1-35 4th Street NW, Winter Haven Let’s kick off October - Breast Cancer month!!

Join us in Central Park Winter Haven to turn on that pink fountain! Vendors, music, info and fun to help you enjoy your afternoon!

CORE FLOW YOGA EVERY MONDAY Sep 30, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street Southeast, Winter Haven Designed to sculpt and strengthen your core muscles while enhancing flexibility and stability. This unique fusion combines the precision of isometric poses, the power of core-strengthening movements, and the

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1920 EDGEWOOD DR T6............. 7/8/2024.....$135,000

2429 LAKEVIEW ST...................... 7/8/2024.......$51,300

127 PARK ST..................................7/3/2024....$250,000

2716 WILLISTON DR.....................8/9/2024......$55,000

513 E HIGHLAND DR................... 7/10/2024....$250,000

2429 LAKEVIEW ST..................... 7/10/2024...... $67,500

527 HANCOCK ST......................... 7/1/2024....$455,000

1813 E MAIN ST..............................7/3/2024.... $106,600

1703 LAUREL GLEN PL...............6/28/2024.... $474,300

720 MASSACHUSETTS AVE.......... 7/1/2024.....$125,000

1824 COMANCHE TRL................ 7/15/2024... $485,000

1610 REYNOLDS RD 134................7/5/2024.... $149,900

511 EASTON DR.............................7/5/2024....$748,000

1630 SMITHFIELD CIR................... 7/1/2024.....$152,000

619 N FLORIDA AVE......................7/3/2024... $900,000

1052 BUTTERCUP DR.................. 7/11/2024.... $165,000

205 BELVEDERE ST..................... 7/10/2024....$925,000

2718 MORGAN COMBEE RD.........7/3/2024.... $180,000

525 W 7TH ST.............................6/28/2024..... $110,000

622 S INGRAHAM AVE................. 7/8/2024.... $180,000

621 TROPICAL WAY......................7/5/2024.... $170,000

621 EMMA ST.............................. 7/12/2024.... $195,000

4705 KANOY DR........................6/28/2024.....$175,000

2436 CORAL WAY.........................7/5/2024....$235,000

513 CARVER ST............................ 7/8/2024....$230,000

1801 RED LOOP..........................6/28/2024.....$315,300

935 W 12TH ST.............................. 7/1/2024....$250,000

1777 RED LOOP..........................6/28/2024.... $323,600

1208 GREENVIEW DR................6/28/2024... $280,000

1795 RED LOOP............................ 7/8/2024.... $329,600

6736 GREAT BEAR DR................6/28/2024.....$391,300

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66

11210 KO DR................................7/20/2024......$65,000

3332 MYSTIC POND LOOP.......... 7/9/2024....$343,000

789 AVENUE Q........................... 7/12/2024.... $232,000

10926 COUNTRY VIEW DR...........7/3/2024..... $110,000

3339 MYSTIC POND LOOP...........7/3/2024... $348,000

334 SAND PINE TRL.................... 7/14/2024....$243,500

614 CASSANDRA LN..................6/28/2024.... $130,000

6315 DOLOSTONE DR...................7/5/2024....$434,900

78 COLEMAN RD.......................... 7/1/2024... $246,000

6464 SANDPIPER DR #15..............7/2/2024... $200,000

4057 PINE FOREST PL................. 7/27/2024... $445,000

2207 AVENUE F..........................6/28/2024....$250,000

6881 BROMPTON DR.................... 7/1/2024.... $255,000

2577 ROGERS RD........................ 7/10/2024.... $180,000

3931 WARBLER DR....................... 7/8/2024... $260,000

8114 OSBORNE LN.....................6/28/2024... $260,000

5039 CLIFFSIDE DR.......................7/2/2024.... $190,000

298 PINEY PL.............................6/28/2024....$269,000

6243 PEACOCK RUN.................6/28/2024... $305,000

3805 HILL ST.............................6/28/2024....$299,000

755 OLEANDER DR....................6/28/2024.... $272,000

6620 TULA LN...........................6/28/2024.... $310,000

3503 KENWOOD XING.................7/2/2024....$395,000

116 5TH ST.................................... 7/9/2024... $300,000

3953 DERBY DR.........................6/28/2024..... $317,000

5017 RIDGEFIELD LN.....................7/2/2024... $650,000

844 SUN RIDGE VILLAGE DR....... 7/9/2024... $305,000

5812 CRANE DR.........................6/28/2024....$320,000

2476 DELPHI CIR...........................7/5/2024...$1,155,000

7215 SUMMIT PL.......................... 7/11/2024.... $310,000

115 WILDWOOD AVE.....................7/5/2024....$365,000

4049 BYRDS CROSSING DR......... 7/1/2024....$230,000

154 2ND ST UNIT 5....................... 7/9/2024....$395,000

7575 PARK BYRD RD.....................7/3/2024....$100,000

521 GARDEN DR............................7/3/2024... $244,000

1540 BETH LN...............................7/4/2024... $450,000

3722 MADBURY CIR..................... 7/9/2024......$211,600

3920 WOODBURN LOOP.............7/2/2024.....$313,000

438 LAKESIDE RANCH CIR...........7/2/2024....... $94,714

7418 HIGHLAND GROVE DR......... 7/1/2024....$253,000

4119 SUNNY LAND DR...............6/28/2024....$320,000

1700 NW 6TH ST A-4.................... 7/8/2024......$95,000

8298 PEAK AVE............................ 7/1/2024.... $275,000

6310 SILVER LEAF LN...................8/8/2024....$370,000

148 AVENUE U...........................6/28/2024.... $105,000

2205 MISSION HILLS DR............6/28/2024.... $287,000

626 LAUREL POINTE DR............6/28/2024....$453,000

3401 AVENUE V............................ 7/1/2024.....$135,000

7786 CANTERBURY CIR...............7/5/2024....$329,000

2985 VINTAGE VIEW CIR.............. 7/1/2024....$470,000

1140 SOPHIA BLVD....................... 7/9/2024.....$258,100

3415 SUMMIT LN.......................6/28/2024....$355,000

2810 HIGH WINDS LN...................7/2/2024....$569,900

235 WOODFERN DR.....................7/3/2024....$295,000

6212 CHAROLAIS DR....................7/2/2024... $360,000

1044 ASHTON WOODS LN........... 7/1/2024....$730,800

192 LAKE SMART CIR................... 7/8/2024.... $301,000

2151 SUTTON RIDGE AVE...........6/28/2024.... $381,800

5515 SCOTT VIEW LN................... 7/9/2024.$1,600,000

263 KRENSON BAY LOOP.............7/3/2024....$309,900

12260 LAKELAND ACRES RD.....6/28/2024... $403,500

1113 S CENTRAL AVE......................7/2/2024.... $150,000

6244 RED HERRING DR............... 7/8/2024.... $310,000

2109 CREEKS CROSSING LN........ 7/9/2024.... $415,000

919 BEECH AVE..........................6/28/2024..... $152,200

711 LUCERNE BLVD.....................6/28/2024....$345,000

2615 HUNTINGTON HILLS DR....6/28/2024....$425,000

1230 RUBY ST............................6/28/2024....$255,000

248 HAINES BLVD......................6/28/2024....$355,000

7029 ODONIEL LOOP...................7/4/2024....$425,000

400 HOWARD AVE APT A.............7/2/2024....$265,000

1220 W LAKE HAMILTON DR......6/28/2024..... $615,700

2319 D R BRYANT RD..................... 7/1/2024....$550,000

1049 W DOROTHY ST...................7/5/2024.....$281,000

1250 LAKE HAMILTON DR.............7/2/2024....$795,000

4851 DRAKE AVE..........................7/3/2024......$70,900

3515 CONINE DR......................... 7/10/2024... $900,000

2104 EWELL RD............................ 7/9/2024......$75,000

WINTER HAVEN

4836 GOLDENVIEW LN............... 7/9/2024..... $90,000

2309 AVENUE C.........................6/28/2024...... $59,900

365 LAKE DAISY CIR..................6/28/2024..... $217,000

3901 INDUSTRY BLVD #2...........6/28/2024..... $147,000

2309 AVENUE C.........................6/28/2024..... $115,000

2246 FIRESTONE PL...................6/28/2024....$230,000

3901 INDUSTRY BLVD 3.............6/28/2024..... $147,000

4117 SPRUCEWOOD ST............... 7/10/2024.....$122,000

2693 WHISPERING TRAILS DR.....7/2/2024... $240,000

2805 JOHN DAVID PL.................... 7/1/2024.... $150,000

689 LAKE HOWARD DR APT 2D.. 7/9/2024.....$122,000

2740 RUTLEDGE CT..................... 7/8/2024....$249,900

5349 HIDDEN OAKS DR.............. 7/12/2024... $260,000

2037 SAN MARCOS DR................ 7/8/2024.... $140,000

5410 STRUTHERS RD....................7/3/2024.... $252,000

3909 SERENADE LN...................... 7/1/2024....$295,000

254 LAKE THOMAS DR................. 7/1/2024.... $195,000

512 REGGIE RD...........................6/28/2024....$259,800

5872 ARLINGTON RIVER DR......... 7/1/2024... $300,000

105 ORANGE AVE......................6/28/2024.....$215,000

505 MARCIA LOOP..................... 7/10/2024... $260,000

3122 FORESTGREEN DR.............. 7/10/2024... $309,000

708 29TH ST................................ 7/8/2024.....$215,000

557 REGGIE RD.............................7/5/2024... $260,000

3326 MYSTIC POND LOOP...........7/3/2024....$328,000

450 SE AVENUE I..........................7/5/2024.....$221,000

704 MAGNOLIA PL.......................7/3/2024....$269,000

2074 BLUE HIGHLANDS DR..........7/2/2024....$334,000

932 SUNSHINE WAY..................6/28/2024.... $225,000

961 HAROLD PASS........................7/3/2024....$269,000

9705 LAKE BESS RD LOT 709........7/2/2024..... $115,000

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4100 US 92 W, Lakeland Polk Parkway> Airport Rd.> East on US 92 W

IT’S WRITTEN IN THE STARS ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

March 21 - April 19

April 20 - May 20

May 21 - June 20

June 21 - July 22

Champion of Bold Beginnings: You’re ready to charge ahead with new projects and adventures. Trust your instincts, as they will lead you to victory. Keep an eye on opportunities around September 8th.

Champion of Steadfastness: Your determination and patience are your greatest assets this month. A steady pace will bring you closer to your goals, especially around September 15th.

Champion of Communication: Your ability to connect with others will shine this month. Engage in lively discussions and collaborations around September 20th, as they may open doors to new achievements.

Champion of Emotion: Trust your intuition and embrace your sensitivity.

Around September 10th, your empathetic nature will help you navigate challenges and emerge victorious.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

July 23 - August 22

August 23 - September 22

September 23 - October 22

October 23 - November 21

Champion of Leadership: Your charisma and confidence are at their peak this month. Take charge and lead others to success, especially during the week of September 18th

Champion of Precision: Your attention to detail and analytical skills will be your superpower. Around September 5th, focus on perfecting your craft to achieve excellence.

Champion of Balance: Strive for harmony in all aspects of your life. Your diplomatic nature will help resolve conflicts and bring success, particularly around September 12th.

Champion of Transformation: Embrace change and let go of what no longer serves you. Your resilience will be tested, but you’ll emerge stronger, especially around September 25th.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

November 22 - December 21

December 22 - January 19

January 20 - February 18

February 19 - March 20

Champion of Adventure: Your love for exploration will lead to exciting discoveries this month. Keep an open mind and embrace new experiences, particularly around September 17th.

Champion of Ambition: Your hard work and dedication will pay off.

Focus on long-term goals and don’t shy away from challenges, especially around September 3rd.

Champion of Innovation: Your originality and forward-thinking will set you apart. Embrace your unique ideas and collaborate with others for success, particularly around September 22nd.

Champion of Imagination: Your creativity will be your guiding light this month. Use your imagination to find solutions and inspire others, especially around September 28th.

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2024

Dance the Night Away!

REIMAGINING RETIREMENT LIVING IN LAKELAND ESTATESATCARPENTERS.COM