Haven February 2021

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

February

Polk County’s Premier Vacation Home Resort www.BalmoralResortFlorida.com

2 VENUES 1 LOCATION B BALMORAL

Open House Book your Event February 7 | 10 am - 2 pm

B BALMORAL

Haines City’s Live Music Venue

LIVE MUSIC

THURSDAY - SATURDAY

Valentine’s Dinner February 12 | 6 pm - 9 pm

Weekly Events Trivia

Newlywed Game February 13 | 6 pm - 9 pm

Wine Tasting February 19 | 6 pm - 9 pm

Back by Popular Demand

Drag Show

February 20 | 7 pm - 10 pm

www.BalmoralEventCenter.com

Every Tuesday | 6 pm - 8 pm

Cornhole

Every Sunday | 4 pm - 7 pm

Happy Hour every day 4-7 pm

Food Specials Half Order Loaded Fries $5 Sampler Platter $10

Drink Specials 2 for $4 drafts 2 for $5 house wine Captain Morgan $4 Fireball $3

www.BalmoralBarandGrill.com

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ASHBURN II COLLECTION This transitionally designed living room has lush, soft chenille body fabric application & dramatic, correlating accent pillows.

Visit online at badcock.com

YOUR HOMETOWN FURNITURE STORE

BARTOW

WINTER HAVEN

EAGLE LAKE

1350 N BROADWAY (US 98)

1399 6TH ST NW

1515 HIGHWAY 17 N

(863)533-1611

(863) 251-2039

(863) 294-7749

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WEAVER LOVELESS LAW PRACTICE AREAS

WILLS TRUSTS PROBATE ELDER LAW REAL ESTATE ESTATE PLANNING BUSINESS & CORPORATIONS

www.lakewaleslaw.net

863.676.6000

240 E. PARK AVE. LAKE WALES, FL 33853

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An annual rite of passage, Spring Bloom presented by AdventHealth is the most colorful time of the year as thousands of azaleas, camellias, and annuals signal a new season. The festival celebrates the majesty of Mother Nature from February 1 through April 30.

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

DANIELA SOLEDADE WITH NATE NA JAR

GARY MULE DEER

FRIDAY, MARCH 12

REVEREND BARRY & THE FUNK

THE PAUL GAVIN QUARTET FEATURING JAMES SUGGS

FRIDAY, APRIL 9

FRIDAY, APRIL 23

FRIDAY, MARCH 26

SPONSORED IN PART BY:

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

This year above all, we’re thankful for our health and our time with loved ones – the true measure of wealth.

Brad Dantzler, AAMS®

Managing Director Senior Vice President, Investments

141 5th Street NW, Suite 100 || Winter Haven, FL 33881 863.298.9569 || 866.309.7515 brad.dantzler@raymondjames.com || www.braddantzler.com

© 2017 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Raymond James is not affiliated with the organization(s) listed.

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863-676-0200

Letter From the Editor

ON THE COVER: Alfred Hair (1941-1970) “Peach Cloud Morning,” not dated.

Oil on Upson Board. Read more about the Highwaymen on page 52.

Hello and Happy February! This month we honor Black History Month. What started as a grassroots effort to promote Black Americans’ achievements in 1915, it wasn’t until 1976 that President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month. Asking the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the toooften neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

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In this month’s issue we welcome guest writer, Brenda Joyce Patterson. Brenda is an accomplished writer and poet and I’m so excited to share her thoughts with our readers. We also visit the Polk County History Center to learn about Black History right here in Polk County. Our tour guide Jayme Jamison pointed out, “National heroes are great – local heroes are even better,” and we couldn’t agree more. You can take this self-guided tour, and we have more info about that in our story.

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $0 out of pocket expense for insured patients!

Also in this month’s issue, we visit a local business called 16.92. A Lakeland resident has created the first mobile matcha and coffee pop-up cart. You can find him around Polk County serving up matcha lattes with beautiful flavor combos.

He has big plans, and we loved talking with him about it. Prima from Open Door Wellness talks to us about her journey over the last few years and the business she started as a result of that. We talk with them and even more inspiring residents in the February issue; I hope you too will feel inspired by the excellent work they’re doing in our community.

Includes full mouth X-rays (D0210), exam (D0150), and cleaning (D1110)

Keep tagging your FB and IG posts with #kindachill, and you might find your post in the next issue. Check out our Top Ten lists and our calendar with both virtual and in-person events around town. This month, we have our anonymous poet again, sharing the love with all of us. Hint about the poet’s identity? It’s nobody on our staff, and that’s all I can say for now. Stay safe & have a great month!

Your Smile is Our Work of Art

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

(863) 676-6021 701 State Rd. 60 East • Lake Wales ForniDental.com 11

F E B R U A R Y

CONTENTS

UNKNOWN, UNNAMED, UNSUNG...................24 BLACK HISTORY IN POLK COUNTY..................28 BRENDA JOYCE PATTERSON................................. 32 DR. VINCENT MILLER................................................34 16.92 COFFEE MATCHA BAR................................. 40

11......................................................FROM THE EDITOR 14.................................................................LOCAL NEWS 16............................................................... TOP 10 TO DO 44...................................................................... COCKTAIL 46........................................ OPEN DOOR WELLNESS 49......................................................CHECK ME OUT ;) 50............................... LAKE WALES ARTS FESTIVAL 52.........................................FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN 54.....................................................................CALENDAR 63...............................................................SOLD HOMES 71................................................................. #KINDACHILL

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

by Destroyer Media & Marketing. Haven distributes 16,104 copies a month with 8,604 mailed to homes and 7,500 copies available at select locations throughout east Polk County.

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

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

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LOCAL NEWS

HORNET CLOSET

Haines City High students no longer have to go without clean clothes, hygiene items, or school supplies, thanks to a project spearheaded

by IB Resource Specialist Morgan Hammett. Earlier this school year, Hammett began noticing students who were wearing the same clothes several days in a row, or who were carrying stacks of books because they didn’t have a backpack. In August, she began collecting donations of clothing, shoes, deodorant, backpacks, jackets and other items. By December, she’d collected enough to open the Hornet Closet inside the HCHS media center. To support the Hornet Closet, contact morgan.hammett@polk-fl.net.

PIRATE INVASION

On Friday, February 12 a world-renowned daredevil Nik Wallenda will “walk the plank” 60 feet in the air from inside LEGOLAND® Florida Resort to the new LEGOLAND® Pirate Island Hotel. Park and hotel guests are invited to take part in the fun by watching this nail-biting stunt safely from the ground. This one-time-only event will be no “walk in the park” for the Wallenda Team as they will construct a high wire longer than 500 feet for the walk.

They will also work closely with LEGOLAND® Master Model Builders to craft LEGO® bricks onto Wallenda’s 28-foot balance pole. This daring demonstration is the first event in a year-long celebration for the park’s 10th birthday.

VACCINATION SITE

GRAD RATE INCREASE

Polk State College’s Lakeland Campus was the location of Polk County’s first drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination site on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. Through its partnership with the Florida Department of Health of Polk County and Polk County Board of County Commissioners, Polk State provided the use of the Lakeland Campus parking lot for mobile vaccination services. During the day-long event, 1,000 individuals aged 65 or older who had preregistered for appointments received their first doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

It is expected that the College will continue to be a location for mobile vaccination.

Polk County Public Schools’ graduation rate jumped to 86.5 percent last year, a record high, even as seniors faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic. The district’s latest graduation rate was a 5.3 percentage point increase from the previous year (81.2 percent in 201819), according to the Florida Department of Education. Polk County’s 14 traditional public high schools had an average graduation rate of 91.6 percent in 2019-20, an increase of 2.8 percentage points from the previous year (88.8 percent in 2018-19).

Many of these traditional public high schools outperformed the statewide graduation rate of 90 percent.

VACCINE PORTAL

CONGRATULATIONS

SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH

SCHOLARSHIPS

Florida Department of Health Polk County’s vaccination registration web portal is up. It’s here where you create an account for a future vaccine appointment. The state’s allocation plan is based on a phased approach while the vaccine doses are in limited supply. Polk County is directing the first vaccinations to high-risk health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities at the highest risk of contracting COVID-19, as well as any person over the age of 65. (863) 298-7500, call center hours are Mon-Fri: 8am - 5pm, Sat & Sun: 8am - 2pm. You can also visit register.polk.health.

Congratulations are extended to Mayor Brad Dantzler and Mayor Pro Tem Nathaniel Birdsong who were both selected at the January 11, 2021 Regular City Commission meeting to serve another year in their positions.

A group of citizens has been chosen to help narrow down the possible candidates for the next top leader of Polk County Public Schools. A special school board meeting was held in January where 36 people were selected to serve as members of the Citizens Screening Committee. The committee is tasked with reviewing the applications of people interested in becoming the next PCPS superintendent and identifying the top candidates who meet the necessary qualifications and qualities to fill this important job. The committee’s list will then be sent to the school board for consideration. See the complete list at polkschoolsfl.com.

Polk State College Students Petal McKenley and Nehemiah Charles were honored Wednesday during the Polk State College’s 17th annual MLK Celebration as this year’s recipients of Dream the Dream scholarships. They were recognized for their academic achievements, community service, and inspiring stories during the event, which took place virtually for the first time in its history. They will each receive scholarships worth up to $500 through the Polk State College Foundation.

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GRAND OPENING FEB. 1 @ 11AM Owners Sean and Jenee Champe & John Rushing bring a true farm to table concept to Winter Haven with a LOCAL market .

LocaL Vendors ; Treasured oLiVe, oLiVer HeriTage Farms, HerTaBerk Farms, Farmer Jack Produce and many more. in sTore markeT, daiLy sPeciaLs, Catering available

(863) 875-7746 SoCial Media : @thelokaleWh Monday - Sunday 11aM - CloSe 276 W Central ave, Winter haven 15

POLK TOP 10 DINING PASSPORT

Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Daddy Daughter Date Night box provides daughters and fathers the opportunity to spend a special night together at home! The box will be filled with fun activities, food supplies, decorations, and much more. This box is intended for dads and daughters up to 10 years-old. Register online by Feb. 8th at http://bit.ly/DDNB21

The Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce presents the 2021 Taste of Winter Haven “Eat Out to Help Out” Dining Passport. For just $50 you can receive a dining passport filled with $10 off coupons good until Dec. 31, 2021. There is no more important time to drive traffic to our local restaurants, bars, and caterers as they were some of the businesses most affected by pandemic response regulations.

Winterhavenchamber.com

THE NEWLYWED GAME

MOONLIGHT MARKET

Feb. 13, 6-9pm at the Balmoral Event Center in Haines City. Enjoy a 3-course dinner and a game inspired by the popular Newlywed Game show from the late 60s.

This night is sure to be filled with lots of laughs and fun. All guests will receive a complimentary glass of champagne. Ticket price: $45.

866-584-5527. feltrimresorts. com/balmoral-event-center

Feb. 17, 6-9pm. Visit Grove Roots Brewery for some mid-week fun on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. The Moonlight Market is comprised of vendors from all over Central Florida, with local food trucks, and live music. Vendor tables will be spaced throughout the brewery and beer garden for social distancing.

DATE NIGHT

AFTER SCHOOL ART

Feb. 12, 6-7:30pm at Inside Out Yoga. This class will be playful and fun with a SWEET playlist!

This experience encourages communication, mindfulness kindness, intimacy, and LOVE through touch, talk, and expression. Space is limited, reserve in advance. $30/couple, 863-224-2311. ioyogastudio.com

TOULOUSE-LAUTREC

A master painter, printer, and illustrator, Toulouse-Lautrec saw no line between fine and commercial art. In his pictures of the Belle Époque Toulouse-Lautrec created the timeless scenes of France’s cabarets, concert halls, and theaters. Feb. 13 - May 23 at the Polk Museum of Art. Schedule your visit online. 863-688-7743 polkmuseumofart.org

ARTS FESTIVAL

VOICES

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

Feb. 20 & 21 on the Shores of Lake Wailes in Lake Wales. Celebrate 50 years of fine arts excellence at the 2021 Citizens Bank & Trust Lake Wales Arts Festival!

The festival is celebrating and exhibiting quality works of art by fine artists and artisans during two full days of art, music, and culture! VIP experiences available at centralfloridatix.com. More info lakewalesartscouncil.org

Feb. 20, 6:30pm at the Chain O’ Lakes Stadium. “Voices: Hope in the Midst of Peril” is a celebration of the African American Voice in Arts. Guests will enjoy a musical review of Soul Music and “Good News” music. Come join Voices and the Voice, Deric Feacher, under the stars as they spread some “GOOD NEWS” for 2021. theatrewinterhaven.com

Feb. 26, 7pm. Come run, jog, or walk a 5K through Downtown Winter Haven with colleagues, family, and friends. Be sure to wear your GLOW! This family-friendly 5K begins at the BB&T parking lot and ends at Grove Roots Brewery with live music and a food truck party. Proceeds support the work of The Junior League of Greater Winter Haven, Inc. jlgwh.org/lightup-the-night

Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easy-to-follow video instruction.

Project supplies will be available for pickup or shipping. Mondays through Mar. 8. Polk Museum of Art Members, $10. Non-Members, $15. PolkMuseumofArt.org/AfterSchool

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PARTNER YOGA

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

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ORLANDO TOP 10 FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

OUT OF THE DARKNESS

Through Feb. 22 visit the Epcot International Festival of the Arts at Disney World. Explore the culinary arts, performing arts, and visual arts while having fun with the whole family. Experience new foods from around the world, take part in interactive art projects, and watch world-class performers.

Requires advanced registration disneyworld.disney.go.com

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention invites you to Baldwin Park in Orlando for a socially distanced walk on Saturday, February 6 at 8am, or you can choose to participate virtually. Help the AFSP with their mission to “Save Lives and Bring Hope to Those Affected”

by Suicide. Register in advance afsp.org

KIDS NIGHT OUT

JAZZ FOR LOVERS

Feb. 13, 6:30-10pm at the Central FL Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The fun begins at the Discovery Center, where everyone will get to enjoy meeting cool animals up close and taking a flashlight tour of the zoo. Kids will play games, craft, and enjoy a snack, all before the grown-ups come back! For kids ages 5–12. Reserve in advance centralfloridazoo.org.

Feb. 14, 12-3pm as part of the Frontyard Festival at the Dr. Phillips Center. Enjoy bottomless drinks and delicious brunch dishes. Listen to music by Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and John Coltrane performed by eight musicians including Rockelle Whitaker and Orlando’s own Christopher McDole. Reserve your own socially distant box at drphillipscenter.org.

havenmagazines.com

MARDI GRAS

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE

Feb. 6 - Mar. 28 at Universal Orlando. Experience a food fest inspired by international Carnaval celebrations. Sample the flavors of Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Spain, and other regions including, of course, New Orleans.

Plus enjoy parade floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads, and more throughout the park. Park admission required. universalorlando.com

Feb. 6 - Mar. 14, Wednesdays through Sundays at the Mead Botanical Garden. Down the Rabbit Hole unfolds as you follow Alice through the botanical gardens. You’ll meet Alice at the route’s starting place, in limited groups of 10-15. You’ll see brilliant costumes, theatrical lighting, special effects, and a fantastic soundtrack. Reserve tickets at creativecityproject.com/

BREAKIN’ 2: ELECTRIC BOOGALOO

SHEBELIEVES CUP

HYPERTUFA POTS

Feb. 18-24 at the Exploria Stadium. Brazil, Canada, and Japan join the USA for the most elite four-team international tournament in women’s soccer.

All four teams, which are all ranked in the world’s top 10, will be participating in the delayed 2021 Olympic Games and the USA, Brazil, and Japan come into the tournament as reigning champions of their respective Confederations. ussoccer.com/ all-matches

Feb. 20, 9:30am-noon at Leu Gardens.This class will introduce you to the planters used in English gardens that will add character to your yard and save you money on pots. Hypertufa pots are made from a mixture of Portland cement and have the appearance of rugged stone. Register in advance leugardens.org

Feb. 18, 7pm at Central Park in Winter Park. Advanced Registration is required. Jazz dancer Kelly heads home, where her father disapproves of her friendship with street dancers Ozone and Turbo. Kelly teams up with her friends for a breakdancing benefit show to save an endangered community center. enzian.org

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VALENTINE SUCCULENT Feb. 12, 11am-1pm at Leu Gardens.

Learn how to make a Valentine succulent arrangement step by step. All materials provided, but bring a glue gun. If you’re not comfortable with meeting in person, no worries, they have mailing options for an additional fee, which includes a DIY kit.

Register in advance leugardens.org

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

Winter Haven

5692 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863)268-6864

“This store is beautiful, modern, and AMAZING! If you’re in the market for CBD, go see Mrs. Wendy & staff at Your CBD Store in Winter Haven. You won’t be disappointed! I stopped by this past Saturday for their one-year anniversary, and although I hadn’t been there in several months and they were very busy. Mrs. Wendy remembered me and she even remembered that my wife was going to be having surgery (right after the last time we were in) and asked how she was doing after her operation. I don’t know how Mrs. Wendy can remember all of her customers and make every person feel like they are their only customer. She is very genuine and really cares about every person that walks in the door. I was also happy to see Mrs. Kendra again. She’s also very sweet and goes above and beyond, like Mrs Wendy, to make you feel welcomed and special. I didn’t get to meet him, but they also have a new team member, who I’m sure is also fantastic. Their products made me a customer for life, but Mrs. Wendy and their staff is the reason I do and will continue to come to that specific store.”

– Derek G.

“Very friendly place, lots of different items, and they care for you to find what works best! Great customer service, I will be coming back!”

-Tyler M.

“I was very worried coming in because I didn’t have a clue as to what CBD really could do but Trey OUTDID HIMSELF informing me. Probably going to be my pit stop after work every week ! Amazing products and customer service.”

-Nicole D.

THE DETOXIFYING EFFECTS WILL SURPRISE YOU. Our new organic products help the earth heal. Imagine what they could do for you.

Buy two products, get the third for free.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Must be 18 or older. This product contains a total delta9-THC concentration that does not exceed 0.3% on a dry-weight basis.

TAMPA TOP 10 AQUAGRAMS

ARTSCHOOLED

SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE

Artschooled is an in-person program where children and families learning from home can create works of art together at Rivercrest Park in Seminole Heights. All projects inspired by works of art currently on view at the Tampa Museum of Art. Projects are designed for kids in grades K-5, with the option for their caretakers to also participate and create. Register at tampamuseum.org

Feb. 3 & 4 from 3-10pm, Feb. 5 & 6 from 10am-10pm along the Tampa Riverwalk. Fans will virtually meet NFL players and Legends, participate in games, and shop NFL merch. Fans will also grab photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and see all 54 Super Bowl rings. For entrance to Super Bowl Experience Presented

by Lowe’s, fans will need to register for the NFL OnePass app and book a session time at NFL.com/OnePass

NIGHT MARKET

Weekends through Feb.16 at Busch Gardens. This year, celebrate safely with an expanded Mardi Gras event with open-air festivities and French-Quarter flair. Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay. buschgardens.com

The Florida Aquarium divers, along with the sharks, sea turtles, and other aquatic friends, will deliver a personalized message from the Coral Reef or Heart of the Sea exhibits. You provide the name and a recent photo of the guest of honor, and they will do the rest. Must be booked 2 weeks in advance, $50 per Aquagram, due at time of reservation.

Your donation directly benefits the animals. 813-273-4000 flaquarium.org/aquagrams

READER MEET WRITER

SCIENCE AFTER DARK

CHAMPAGNE TEA

CHARCUTERIE CLASS

JERSEY BOYS

Feb. 11, 7-8pm at the Oxford Exchange. Join Jerry Mitchell, journalist and author to talk about his book, Race Against Time: A Reporter Reopens the Unsolved Murder Cases of the Civil Rights Era. This book documents the work that led to the re-openings and re-prosecutions of some of the nation’s most notorious murders.

Must register. oxfordexchange. com

Feb. 12, 6-9pm, ages 18+ at the Museum of Science and Industry.

Enjoy light appetizers, beer and wine samplings, and the MOSI exhibits. Play beat saber using the Oculus Rift, make your own bath bomb, test some adult liquid nitrogen ice cream and so much more! This night is all about fun for the adults! Register in advance, online at mosi.org

Feb. 14, 3-5pm. Visit the Oxford Exchange on Valentine’s Day for an afternoon champagne tea in the restaurant. Features an assortment of sweet & savory bites, a glass of champagne, and your choice of tea. $40 per guest.

Reservation Only. 813-253-0222 oxfordexchange.com

Feb. 18, 7-8pm at Armature Works. Join Delicious Art for a special Charcuterie Class in Show + Tell where you’ll learn the history of charcuterie and how to create the perfect board, including fun folding techniques! You also get a take-home wooden board, take-home charcuterie guide, and one glass of wine per person. $85 Register at armatureworks.com

Feb. 23 & 24 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Jersey Boys is a behind-the-scenes Broadway Musical about Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. While their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a very different story, a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. 727-791-7400 rutheckerdhall.com

MARDI GRAS

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Heights Night Market is a monthly, outdoor market taking place on 7th Ave in front of Armature Works every 2nd Wednesday of the month from 5:30-9:30pm.

The Market will feature a rotating group of artists and makers selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, wood-work, gifts and more.

Heights Night Market is familyfriendly and features live music at each event. Armatureworks.com

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

UPCOMING EVENTS FLORIDA TALKS SPRING SPEAKER SERIES THE GREEN BOOK

BY CHERYL HOWARD FEBRUARY 18 @ 6 PM SCRIBBLING WOMEN IN FLORIDA BY BETTY JEAN STEINSHOUER MARCH 11 AT 6 PM HIDDEN HISTORY OF FLORIDA

BY JAMES CLARK APRIL 8 AT 6 PM DOWNTOWN LAKE WALES HISTORY WALKING TOUR FEBRUARY 6 MARCH 6 APRIL 3

AN ORIGINAL EXHIBIT BY THE LAKE WALES HISTORY MUSEUM Celebrating 45 years of collecting images and textiles that represent the community, the Lake Wales History Museum will showcase a selection of artwork by local artists and quilts from the permanent collection. Ten quilts from the 1880s to today, and seventeen works of art from Tom Freeman, Beatrice Athanas, and other artists will be on display.

ON DISPLAY NOW - MAY 15, 2021

NOW OPEN! WED - SAT | 10 AM - 5 PM 325 S SCENIC HIGHWAY | LAKE WALES, FL 21 863.676.1759 | lakewalesfl.gov/museum

MUSEUM NON-FICTION BOOK CLUB 4TH WED OF THE MONTH JAN - EDUCATED

BY TARA WESTOVER FEB - THE BLACK ROSE

BY TANANARIVE DUE MARCH - THE DRESSMAKER OF KHAIR KHANA

BY GAYLE TZEMACH LEMMON APRIL - RIVER OF THE GOLDEN IBIS

BY GLORIDA JAHODA

PROGRAMS & EXHIBITS ARE SUPPORTED BY THE FOLLOWING:

Engage Leave Your Mark

By Katie Worthington Decker, President/CEO of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce

IMAGINE. Imagine what could happen if every one of us decided we were going to make a positive impact on the future of the community! As the words inscribed at Bok Tower from founder Edward Bok call upon us “make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.” One of the attributes I admire the most about Winter Haven is the sincere desire to get people engaged to make our community a better place. Wondering how you can get more involved? Check out these opportunities below!

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Volunteer for a local non-profit. What's your passion?

Puppies, children, education, health, business issues? The list of non-profits looking for good volunteers and board members is long. At the Chamber we run a non-profit board training program every fall called Endeavor Serves.

Contact us for more info or visit our website for a list of non-profits and civic organizations.

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Serve on or engage with city committees. Did you know that the City of Winter Haven has multiple committees, some appointed by the commission and other volunteer, that address issues such as affordable housing, arts and culture, technology, the airport, land use planning and zoning, and the allocation of funds collected through the Community Redevelopment Agencies. Visit mywinterhaven.com to learn more.

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Join the Chamber. There is no better way to stay "in-theknow", grow your network and impact the future of Winter Haven than to become a member of the Chamber of Commerce. If you own a business, it's one of the best investments you can make in yourself. If you are a young professional, consider joining our young professionals group, Endeavor Winter Haven, for networking and professional development.

@WinterHavenChamber

DO YOU PODCAST? From entrepreneurs, to placemakers to living legacies - the voices of Winter Haven share their stories.

havenmagazines.com

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*IMAGINE mural located in downtown in an alley at 3rd St SW & 2nd St SW

Made Possible By:

POSNER PARK

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LAKE WALES

NTS

LOW

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EN PAYM

PRESE KINGS

Dining Passport

In a normal year, the Winter Haven Chamber would be planning our in-person 2021 Taste of Winter Haven one-night dining extravaganza. But I think we can all agree that over 500 people in an indoor space in early 2021 would be a challenge. However, there is no more important time for us to drive traffic to our local restaurants, bars and caterers than now as they were some of the businesses most affected by pandemic mitigation regulations.

That is why we are proud to present to you our 2021 Taste of Winter Haven "Eat Out to Help Out" Dining Passport.

For just $50, you can receive a booklet filled with $10 off coupons to area restaurants, bars and caterers. Coupons will be good until December 31, 2021. The list of participating restaurants as of this publication is: Arabella's Ristorante Culver's Duke's Brewhouse Winter Haven Elite Catering Company Fire Eatery + Bar KFC Auburndale Mediterranean Fresh Grill

Old Man Frank's Richard's Fine Coffees Smoothie Squad Tanner's Lakeside Tempo 1930 The Catering Co of Central Florida

Purchase your dining passport at winterhavenchamber.com Presented in partnership with:

POSNER PARK

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LW

LAKE WALES

WORDS Brenda Joyce Patterson

UNKNOWN, UNNAMED, UNSUNG: Black Builders of American History

Harriet Tubman

Martin Luther King Jr.

Frederick Douglass

Thurgood Marshall

History is either a dusty dry book half-remembered on a shelf or something to be reenacted on weekends. Whether or not that’s your view, history isn’t a topic most of us think about regularly.

of the 245 years of American history. From being enslaved to attaining our nation’s highest offices of President and VicePresident, the lives of African Americans have thankfully changed since the founding of the United States. Even so, there are injustice and racial inequities that our country has been slow to remedy.

At best, history is often relegated to a few key names recited at certain times of the year.

However, African Americans are not strangers to hope and neither is America. For centuries we have collectively and consistently turned to hope to forge a better future. A future American-made full of hope and hard necessary work.

Any given February, you’re apt to hear about Martin Luther King, Jr., Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman. With the release of recent movies, Katherine Johnson (Hidden Figures), Thurgood Marshall (Marshall), Nat Turner (The Birth of a Nation), Mildred Loving (Loving), and Bryan Stevenson (Just Mercy) might also be included in the familiar list.

In this too, our racial divide, hard, necessary, healing work will go far to fix what ails us and set us on a stronger united path. The inaugural poem, The Hill We Climb, aptly and ably written by our Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman says it best:

But there are more, though unfamiliar, African Americans notable for fostering excellence and beauty. They effected change in their communities. They shined a light on other little-recognized people, places, and times worthy of attention.

And still there are others. African Americans whose names weren’t well-known in their own lifetime and who likely won’t be remembered past a generation or two.

We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace And the norms and notions of what just is Isn’t always just-ice And yet the dawn is ours

They were workers in the mines, the groves, and on the railroad. They were fruit and vegetable stand owners. They were domestics, seamstresses, and handymen. They were teachers, librarians, and those who cared for and taught generations of young people. And generations before them were the enslaved whose existence was only recorded as hatch marks in accounting books.

The hill we climb If only we dare It’s because being American is more than a pride we inherit, it’s the past we step into and how we repair it

Without these people and their lives filled with trials, tenacity, and love, it would’ve been impossible for those exceptional people to rise to become the leaders we know.

Why not spend this Black History Month in reflection and gratitude to the people whose names aren’t easily discoverable.

African Americans - enslaved and free, known and unknown - have contributed much to America. Whether or not their labors are ever acknowledged, they are an inseparable part

But how does one begin to learn more about African American lives?

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 -

Katherine Johnson Mildred Loving

Nat Turner

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Start with conversation… but acknowledge how difficult talking about race and America’s legacy of racism is. The National Museum of African American History and Culture offers a number of sources to help get the conversation started: nmaahc.si.edu/learn/talking-about-race.

For a more in-depth look at race and conversations about race, here are a few books:

HOW TO BE LESS STUPID ABOUT RACE: ON RACISM, WHITE SUPREMACY, AND THE RACIAL DIVIDE

by Crystal M. Fleming

PARENTING FOR LIBERATION: A GUIDE FOR RAISING BLACK CHILDREN

by Trina Greene Brown

“How to Be Less Stupid About Race” is no-holds-barred and an essential guide “to breaking through the half-truths and ridiculous misconceptions that have thoroughly corrupted the way race is represented in the classroom, pop culture, media, and politics.” Sociologist Crystal M. Fleming offers “a fresh, accessible, and irreverent take on everything that’s wrong with our “national conversation about race.”

“Trina Greene Brown has created a guide for Black parents who want to raise fierce, fearless, joyful children. She knows what a challenge this is given the state of the world but argues that liberated parenting is possible if we commit to knowing and trusting ourselves, our children, and our communities. Anyone curious about how to walk with a child through tumultuous times needs to read this book now.”

—Dani McClain, author of “We Live for the We: The Political Power of Black Motherhood.”

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THE RACIAL HEALING HANDBOOK

by Anneliese A. Singh PhD, LPC

SO YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT RACE

by Ijeoma Oluo

“The Racial Healing Handbook offers practical tools to help you navigate daily and past experiences of racism, challenge internalized negative messages and privileges, and handle feelings of stress and shame.”

“In ‘So You Want to Talk About Race,’ Ijeoma Oluo guides readers of all races through subjects ranging from intersectionality and affirmative action to ‘model minorities’ in an attempt to make the seemingly impossible possible: honest conversations about race and racism, and how they infect almost every aspect of American life.”

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THE WARMTH OF OTHER SUNS: THE EPIC STORY OF AMERICA’S GREAT MIGRATION

by Isabel Wilkerson “In ‘The Warmth of Other Suns,’ Pulitzer Prize–winning author Isabel Wilkerson chronicles one of the great untold stories of American history: the decadeslong migration of Black citizens who fled the South for northern and western cities, in search of a better life.”

RESOURCES TO GET YOU STARTED:

BARTOW AND POLK COUNTY African American Heritage Museum 585 E. Summerlin St., Bartow 33830 www.facebook.com/African-American-HeritageMuseum-630663250386267/ LaFrancine Burton Collection (online exhibit) at The Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library cdm17277.contentdm.oclc.org/ Polk County Historical Museum 100 East Main Street, Bartow 33830 www.polkcountyhistory.org/museum/ Polk County Historical Association www.polkcountyhistory.org/ Use this month as a springboard opportunity to learn more about yourself and the part race plays in all aspects of our shared lives.

LAKELAND Lakeland History Room at Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland 33801 www.lakelandgov.net/lakelandhistoryroom

Make virtual visits to local historical societies, church cemeteries, genealogical libraries, history museums, university campuses, and historical markers to learn more about little-known, unknown, or unnamed African Americans.

Legend, Legacy & Lore Series: Tales of Lakeland: Virginia Avenue (online exhibit), The Lakeland History Room at Lakeland Public Library www.lakelandgov.net/lakelandhistoryroom/#panel31062

A virtual tour of Washington, D. C. is filled with visual reminders of enslaved workers’ impact on our nation’s capital. Laid in February 2012, the Slave Labor Commemorative Marker is overdue recognition of their contribution. The sandstone marker’s inscription reads:

FLORIDA Florida African American Cemeteries Online africanamericancemeteries.com/fl/ Florida’s African American History Trail www.visitflorida.com/en-us/things-to-do/arts-history/ african-american-history-trail.html

“THIS SANDSTONE WAS ORIGINALLY PART OF THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL’S EAST FRONT, CONSTRUCTED IN 18-24-1826. IT WAS QUARRIED BY LABORERS, INCLUDING ENSLAVED AFRICAN AMERICANS, AND COMMEMORATES THEIR IMPORTANT ROLE IN BUILDING THE CAPITOL.”

NATIONAL National Museum of African American History and Culture nmaahc.si.edu/ nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions nmaahc.si.edu/explore/collection nmaahc.si.edu/explore/nmaahc-digital-resources-guide Slave Labor Commemorative Marker, Architect of the Capitol Emancipation Hall, Capitol Visitor Center, Washington, D.C. www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/art/slave-laborcommemorative-marker

The hands of the unknown and unnamed built the very heart of America. Let us remember them and the everyday people, how their actions to realize hopes and dreams for their present and their children’s future were the building blocks of our shared history.

Opinion: Why Slaves’ Graves Matter

By Sandra A. Arnold New York Times, April 2, 2016 www.nytimes.com/2016/04/03/opinion/sunday/whyslaves-graves-matter.html

What we do today is the history of tomorrow. Let this truth spur us to learn about our shared past and the hands that made it. The past is not simply the past, but also the present.

Youth poet laureate Amanda Gorman’s inaugural poem, The Hill We Climb www.cnn.com/2021/01/20/politics/amanda-gormaninaugural-poem-transcript/index.html

The past is as present as you and I. 27

WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Black History in Polk County Each February, the Polk County History Center (PCHC) releases their annual evergreen guide called “Discovering Black History in Polk County.” The guide takes visitors through the exhibits, touching on the Black men and women who made history in Polk County and throughout Central Florida as pioneers and leaders in community, industry, services, military, and the courts.

Curator of Education and Visitor Engagement for the History Center, Jayme Jamison, notes the guide has been a staple at the museum for the better part of ten years. It changes annually to reflect temporary exhibits or a narrative change based on direction from the American Association for State and Local History or the American Alliance of Museums. Guests interested in “Discovering Black History in Polk County” can simply checkin at the PCHC rotunda and request a guide during visiting hours. There is no admission charge to explore the museum and meander through Polk County’s past.

The History Center is housed in the Old Polk County Courthouse. The site dates back to the late 1800s and the original building to 1908. In the 1990s, the museum opened to the public, providing exhibitions about Polk County’s history.

Traveling exhibits from the Smithsonian or Florida Humanities Council often come through the PCHC as they partner with the state humanities council. The history center routinely offers programming for its visitors. Current programming open for visitor participation includes a Genealogy Speaker Series centered around researching family history. The other visitor program is called Zoom and Vroom, a post-pandemic twist on what was formerly a lunch-and-learn series that would feature a topic of discussion and question and answer segment.

Now, topics are presented virtually every month with question and answer

opportunities, and include a driving map with half to full-day routes of different historic sites related to the topic that families can follow.

Coinciding with Black History Month, the Zoom and Vroom theme for February is ‘Go West Polk Countian: Exploring Kathleen, Lakeland, and Mulberry,’ spotlighting historic Black American communities and sites of historical significance.

THE GUIDE The comprehensive guide walks guests through the history center’s galleries, providing a narrative to people and points of significance to Black history in Polk County. The back of the guide features a section titled “Explore the Heritage Trail” with the address and information of sites including Florence Villa, Pughsville, and Moorehead Markers, as well as the L.B. Brown House, Lake Wales North Avenue Historic District, and the African American Heritage Museum.

Discovery starts on the first floor, west wing, in The Pioneer Exhibit. “Florida was a frontier,” explained Jamison. “If you were brave enough to set up a homestead between the wild animals and what ended up becoming the Seminole Wars, you were rewarded with land. It was called the Armed Occupation Act.” “The Seminole Wars were very influential in the state of Florida.

There were three wars fought, and part of what came out of that was the establishment of new communities. Some of the Black communities in Florida were runaway slaves; they were known as ‘Black Seminoles,’” she said. “From that, Florida becomes a state, and Polk County becomes a county right before the Civil War breaks out. What we see is a mix of freedmen, Black Seminoles, all converging in Polk County.”

A man of note from that period is Prince Johnson. According to Jamison, Johnson was an enslaved man in Florida during the Civil War. When he was freed after the war, he continued to work with Jacob Summerlin in the cattle industry, eventually acquiring land. “Because he was a land-owning man, he was able to participate in the charter to make Bartow a city,” said Jamison. The charter for the City of Bartow, signed by Prince Johnson, is kept in the upstairs historical library. “It’s phenomenal to see that there were not just Black men voting in the community, but they were participating. They were the community. Prince Johnson is a great example of that,” she said.

According to Jamison, another black pioneer is Robert B. Patterson, famous for his work with the Afro-American Life Insurance Company. “While they specialized in helping Black Americans obtain life insurance and mortgages, the company also established American Beach. Located on Amelia Island, American Beach was one of only a few beaches in the Southeast open to Black Americans and would have likely been featured in the Green-Book.”

Historic Black communities Moorehead, Florence Villa, and Pughsville, are featured on this leg of the tour. Hanging here are a few shots from The LaFrancine Burton Collection compiled

by Lakeland resident and historian LaFrancine Burton. Her

James ‘Big Jim’ and Leander ‘Schoolboy’ Tugerson Photo Courtesy: Polk County History Center

entire collection, including over 200 items, can be accessed digitally through the Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library website. According to that website, “It contains a variety of publications, articles, and photographs she has collected over the years. The artifacts within are a tribute to African-American history and experience in Polk County. The former African American community of Moorehead and its residents are the primary subjects of the photographs. The articles vary in topic from current events to historical events and more.”

really became this great collection of American folklore,” said Jamison.

After writing for the Works Progress Administration, Neale Hurston wrote a play entitled Polk County. The historical musical ended up in the Library of Congress, where it was “discovered” in the archives in 2002. Schools began picking up the play and performing Zora Neale Hurston’s Polk County.

Significant to the citrus industry is renowned citrus horticulturist Dan Laramore. Laramore studied citrus out west and came to Florida as the head horticulturist for the Inmans.

“We don’t have as many artifacts from the Black community that we would like to have to make really robust exhibits,” noted Jamison. If any families in the area have something they would like to donate, contact the museum to explore donation options.

Next is the Community Gallery, looking at Polk’s Black athletes, which Jamison described as “a significant source of recognition and pride for the county.” Athletes across many sports are recognized in the gallery. Athletes like Tracy McGrady, Otis Birdsong, Ken Riley, Ray Lewis, Ralph ‘Big Cat’ Johnson, brothers James ‘Big Jim’ and Leander ‘Schoolboy’ Tugerson, Rod Smart, and Alvin Harper. The last of whom was a multi-sport athlete from Frostproof who played for the Dallas Cowboys and is widely recognized for his iconic touchdown celebration where he dunked the football over the goalpost during Super Bowl XXVII in 1993.

The upstairs library also holds books about the different communities like The History of Florence Villa, by Ulysses J. Johnson III, and another on the Moorehead/Lakeland area called The Evolution of African-Americans Lakeland, Florida (1883-2014) by Neriah Roberts, which Jamison called “an anthology of the who’s who of Black history in the area.”

The Pioneer Exhibit flows into the Industry Gallery and the next stop on the guide. The dominant industries in Polk County historically were railroad, phosphate, citrus, cattle, and turpentine. Included in the guide is the mention of the work of a prolific Black author on turpentine production in Davenport. “During the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration had a writers initiative where they sent writers out across the country to capture the American experience. The writer that came to Polk County was Zora Neale Hurston,” she said. “Zora Neale Hurston came to Polk County, to Davenport, and she observed what life was like working in the turpentine mills. From that, she wrote a book called Mules and Men. […] It

The Services Gallery focuses on the types of service you would find in the county and municipalities like the schools, fire department, police, doctors, etc. For instance, “Eddie Groover Sr. was the first Black officer hired by the Bartow Police Department in 1963,” said Jamison.

A champion for school desegregation was Althea Margaret Daily Mills. Born in Florence Villa, Daily Mills went away to live with family and attended a desegregated high school. She came - CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 -

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that was the purpose of the balcony,” said Jamison of the balcony overlooking the courtroom, which was used in years past to segregate the audience.

back to Polk County some ten years following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. Realizing her son was slated to attend a segregated high school, Daily Mills contacted an attorney. “She brought about a civil suit and combined with a couple of others in Polk County, they were able to force the Polk County School Board at that time to make all haste to desegregate,” said Jamison. She became the first Black resident in Winter Haven to be a career post office worker, eventually becoming the manager. On December 21, 2020, Congress passed a bill signed by the president to rename the post office in Florence Villa after Daily Mills.

Beyond the 1960s, diversity in the courts grew. Timothy Koon was the first Black judge to serve in Polk County, and James B. Sanderlin, the first Black judge to serve on the second district court of appeals for the State of Florida. Community leader Larry R. Jackson (who has a branch of the Lakeland Public Library named after him) was the first Black attorney for the City of Lakeland. Jackson was also the first Black American to run for judge.

The last exhibit to explore before heading upstairs is Women’s Fashion from the early 1900s through 1930s, coordinating with an exhibition on the second floor about the 19th Amendment.

Dresses worn by prolific civil rights activists sit before striking photos of women making history. The Polk County History Center worked with the National Portrait Gallery in Washington D.C. to reproduce a series of photographs from the “Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence” segment of the “Because of Her Story” exhibition. “This exhibit looks at some women on the national level that influenced civic participation and voting rights,” said Jamison. Women like Fannie Lou Hamer, the American voting rights, women’s rights, and civil rights activist.

Also of note are Mary Terrell and Mary Haywood Cooper. Both women pioneered the 19th Amendment, championing that all women deserved a right to participate in their government.

Jamison pointed out Mary McLeod Bethune, touching on “The school and education efforts that she made to help promote community leadership” and her influence in the voting rights movement.

Karla Foreman Wright was the first Black woman to serve as a judge on the Tenth Judicial Circuit Courts of the Polk County Court. Her photo is joined by Peggy A. Quince, the first Black woman appointed to the Florida Supreme Court, who later became Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court.

POLK COUNTY HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL LIBRARY Concluding the tour, guests can explore what was once the law library, now the Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library. The library is home to an extensive collection of research books, family bibles, and other tools for tracking down family history, ancestry, even historic properties. “All of this information that we’ve looked at today comes from our collection of historical documents and archives,” explained Jamison.

These resources for researching individual or family histories don’t only cover the county but also a sizable collection spanning the United States’ southeastern region.

Open on February 2, the upstairs Military Gallery spans the Seminole Wars through Operation Desert Storm and the War on Terror. Jamison pointed out a photo. “During the Spanish American War, we had encampments of soldiers that came through Lakeland on their way further south in Florida. One of the groups that came through Lakeland was the Buffalo Soldiers – the all-Black U.S. Tenth Cavalry Regiment of the U.S. Army.”

Research and Genealogy Historian Preston Petermeier detailed the next segment in the Genealogy Speaker Series, which will be a deep dive into African American genealogy. “Our program for next month is actually part two, of last August. Annette Burke Lyttle virtually did a presentation for us on the introduction beginning African American research,” he said. “In February is the intermediate level. She’s going to come and do the next step.

In the first one, she took us back to tracing African American genealogy back to the Civil War, 1870 Census. From there, she’s going into more of the different records of the Reconstruction Period.”

Lace Gallemore was a hero during WWI. He served as a cook when a battle broke out. “When things were not looking good, he took up arms and bravely fought to help secure the position of his unit and saved lives,” she said. Guests can admire a collection of memorabilia from Earl ‘Jack’ Thompson, a Winter Haven resident who served and was wounded during Vietnam and awarded a purple heart. Also in the exhibit are photos of a young Claude Woodruff that show a young man of allegedly only 14, taking up arms to serve in the Marine Corps during WWII.

The Polk County History Center and the Historical and Genealogical Library are invaluable resources for discovering and understanding the area’s history. “I try to emphasize that yes, there are people on the national level who did big, important things, but who are the people in your community that had an influence? Whether that’s Dr. Simpson, who was the first Black doctor in Lakeland, or Rosabelle Blake, who Blake Academy is named for, a prolific educator, or Dan Laramore, Ulysses Johnson or some of the people who came out of Florence Villa,” said Jamison. “National heroes are great – local heroes are even better.”

The Arts and Culture Gallery displays information on the L.B. Brown House, the literary contributions of Zora Neale Hurston, the artwork of Highwaymen Robert Butler, and the musical contributions of jazz trumpeter Nat Adderley.

For information on the “Discovering Black History in Polk County” guide, local Black heroes, the history center, library, or programming, check out Polk County History Center website and stop in for a visit.

Guests can walk the original floors and see the judge’s bench of the primary courtroom, built in 1908. “When we’re talking about the country from 1908 through the 1960s, unfortunately, we also have to talk about segregation, and

Polk County History Center www.polkhistorycenter.org 863-534-4386 100 E. Main St., Bartow

Scan this QR code to view the LaFrancine Burton Collection

erley

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Why Shopping Local Matters

Local Economic Stimulus. When you purchase at locally-owned businesses rather than nationally-owned, more money is kept in the community. Locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers and farms.

Purchasing local helps grow other businesses as well as the local tax base.

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WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson

Brenda Joyce Patterson Random, stop-everything-and-write, lightning strikes of inspiration were rare when she described her previous writing efforts as less intentional. “Before I started claiming for myself the idea that not only am I interested in writing, but I too can truly do it, not just sometimes do it. The idea that I have to sit and wait for an idea – that made it few and far between.” That commitment to intentionality can be traced back to a series of life-altering health events. “I had a near-death experience six times,” said the poet. A series of spells in which she believed she was passing out, followed by tests that turned up nothing, and more awful bouts ended with an emergency room visit. She described the sensations as feeling ill, the need to lay down, and then “click, the lights would go out.” She would awake to someone, often her husband, in her face trying to wake her up.

If Brenda Joyce Patterson’s working title is Fine Arts and Adult Programming Librarian, then her working, working title must also include poet, essayist, columnist, author, and host of the PGTV show, Writer’s Den. Patterson has had an essay published among the words of Maya Angelou and Gwendolyn Brooks.

She co-authored a book, “Soothsaying” with Suzanne Roth, which earned the 2005 Florida Artists Book Prize and remains in the permanent collection of the Bienes Center for the Literary Arts of The Dianne and Michael Bienes Special Collections and Rare Book Library at the Broward County Main Library/Florida Center for the Book. She’s been a columnist for the Lakeland Ledger and DIY MFA and has had her poetry, flash fiction, and other work published across platforms.

Born and raised in Lakeland, Patterson described the swan city growing up as “sleepy and small,” remembering a time of the Five-and-Dime Store and S.H. Kress and Co. After graduating from Lakeland Senior High, she got her associate’s degree in psychology at then Polk Community College, followed by a bachelor’s degree in psychology at USF and a master’s in Library and Information Science. “I thought I was going to be a clinical psychologist when I grew up,” said Patterson. “Then I realized, my heart was a little too not resilient to do that – to take on people’s pain every day.”

During her ER visit, attached to a heart monitor and EEG machine, it happened again. She awoke to a technician in her face saying, “She’s back!” After viewing the recording from the monitors, the doctors found that Patterson had flatlined. “They watched my heart stop,” she said. The recording revealed her heart rate slowing steadily before stopping, her brain following suit. Patterson had clinically died without any activity in the heart or electrical activity in the brain.

No longer was she going to sit and wait for inspiration to strike – she would reach out and strike it herself. The ordeal had her asking of herself, “You like to call yourself a poet. Are you really writing poetry? Are you really writing, period?” A fire was lit in her belly, and she’s been writing poignant poetry ever since, on topics from writing amid the pandemic to lucid dreaming and even baking. “Sometimes it’s lavender hair, sometimes it’s baking, sometimes it’s somebody got on my last nerve, sometimes it’s just seeing someone walk down the street and thinking, ‘I hope they’re okay…’” From those simple musings, it’s about “letting the mind play,” she said. “I think we as writers do ourselves a disservice if we’re sitting around waiting for inspiration.”

The Fine Arts Librarian found a way to do psychology, in a way, amid the stacks at the Lakeland Public Library, where she’s worked for 37 years. Though her official title is Fine Arts Librarian, her working title includes Adult Programming Librarian too. A wonderful thing about working at a library, certainly at Lakeland Public Library, she said, is, “You get the opportunity to use the things that you love, and they let you run with it, within the boundaries of your job.”

“I have always been a reader. My mother and my older brother read to me when I was a child,” said Patterson of her earliest bookish memories. She began reading on her own even before elementary school. Her interest in writing started when she was in junior high, increasing more seriously throughout high school. She stopped writing for a time and came to work at the library. “To see all the books that came across the desk when people were returning them, that was like nirvana because every reader has their little patch that they tend, like a garden. If you get enough different readers, you expand your garden because you’re seeing what they’re reading, and that’s what happened with me,” she said.

“You put some words on the paper, and then you hate them.

You fiddle with them, and then you hate them a little less. I don’t know of too many writers that are totally pleased with what they put out. But by the time they put it out, they certainly feel pleased that they have done as much as they could with the product that they have in front of them.”

In the blog entry preceding her poem, “When You Say,” Patterson writes, “Stories find their way into my poems.

Somewhere in me, I think, is a fiction writer yearning to be free.” She has already had short fiction published and has experimented with mixing fiction into her poetry. “That’s because I don’t feel comfortable writing fiction,” she said.

To circumvent her insecurities, Patterson uses an ability she’s confident in, her poetry, to explore fiction writing.

Her own mental plot, ready to be tended, Patterson began writing more in earnest in her mid-twenties. When a library patron returned a book of poetry by someone Patterson had not yet heard of, her interests were piqued. She picked up the book, flipped it to the back, and was pleasantly shocked by the author’s photo of a young Nikki Giovanni. “It was a Black woman,” she said. “It’s the thing of seeing someone doing it right in front of you, actively writing, and the fact that they look like you. You can easily project yourself into doing that same thing,” she said.

A reader of eclectic tastes, Patterson enjoys romance, science fiction, even mystery during the right reading ‘season’ as she describes it. “If the thing that you return to over and over again shows how much you feel about it, then it’s definitely a love for me, and that’s romance.” With the general tone of angst and uncertainty reverberating throughout the world, “I need a

When you ask Brenda Joyce Patterson who she is, the first in a succession of accomplished writing titles is ‘poet.’ She lays her verse against the backdrop of her blog, Pinacasa.

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happily ever after. I certainly need a happily for now story, so I read romance,” she said.

If you need someone to put an essay in, I’d be happy to help you out with that.’”

“The fiction that I write, one day if I become intentional enough, I have a science fiction fantasy/ speculative fiction that is at least a novel, but maybe a series of novels. I don’t know if I’m brave enough to do it – I push myself, but I don’t know if I’m brave enough to do it.” Patterson has a science fiction fantasy/ speculative fiction story within her that deals with sentient spiders. The idea came to her one day while she was brushing her teeth. Now, vivid plot details whisper to her almost like an out of body voice while she’s driving or falling asleep, urging her to write them down. Another plot stitching itself together in her mind is that of an assassins league. Dialogue for the story can be read at her poetry blog in an entry titled, “The Trick Is.”

“Certainly, I don’t make a billion dollars writing. I just now make a little money writing,” she said. “Every sort of jump in my writing resume, literally every jump in my writing resume, my little heart is beating like a bird.” In moments when she was nervous or bogged with self-doubt, people around her would say, “Why are you freaking out? You can do this. Are you forgetting what you’ve already done?” Patterson has been a make-it-happen sort of woman all her life, though her insecurities may try and dissuade her at times. “I took it one step at a time, and I would just throw myself out there, and they’d say, ‘You’ve done these things that were difficult before, you can do this, and you can do more.’”

“I’m still trying to convince myself that I have imagination, and that website is showing myself that not only do I have imagination but that I can produce daily if necessary,” she said of her blog, Pinacasa.

“That’s what I would say to any writer, any person, who has something that they want so hard to do. You may not feel like you have the credentials or what have you, but do it anyway.

Try – because you might get the opportunity,” she said. This year, Patterson’s goal is to monetize her writing. She is setting her prices and plans to start a Patreon. The esteemed poet and essayist aims for writing to be a career after she retires from the library. She also plans to seek help navigating the process of compiling her poems for a collection, and notes that she also hopes to submit more work. “I have a number of things that I know I need to work on, but I’m afraid. I’m trying my best to push through that fear.”

Much worth the mention in Patterson’s writing career is that of her essay, “The Kindness of Strangers.” Her first time writing an essay for publication landed on the pages of the anthology, “Go Girl!: The Black Woman’s Book of Travel and Adventure,” edited by Elaine Lee. The book is a collection of essays from 52 women, including literary titans like Maya Angelou, Alice Walker, Gwendolyn Brooks, and, of course, Brenda Joyce Patterson. Wanting to travel and looking for travel stories from Black women, Patterson ended up in correspondence with Elaine Lee. When Lee mentioned that she had gotten a book deal, Patterson leaped at the chance to submit for it. “I said, ‘Great!

Brenda Joyce Patterson Brendajoycepatterson.com FB @Brenda.Joyce.Patterson IG @brenda.joyce.patterson

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WORDS Tara Crutchfield

PHOTOGRAPH Regina Walden

Dr. Vincent Miller A world-traveled performer, accomplished educator, and leader promoting community growth and diversity, Dr. Vincent Miller brings his talent from the stage to the board of Theatre Winter Haven.

and entered the education field with Polk County Public Schools.

Dr. Miller teaches secondary math at Winter Haven High School and dual enrollment for Southeastern in Winter Haven. Miller leans into his entertainment background for his work in the classroom and the community. “I always say that being artminded… allows me to be able to see the diversity in our world, to be able to communicate with people better. It allows me in my current profession to build relationships with my students because I’m well-rounded and open to all conversations that kids or students or people, in general, may have.”

Dr. Miller was born in Winter Haven. “My grandmother’s roots are here, my great grandfather and grandmother’s roots are here, so this is home,” he said of the Chain of Lakes city. While in high school at Lake Region, Miller figured his path would be sports. “My brother was a football player, so I thought I was going to become a football player. I was great at it; I was great at athletics,” he said. But he was also great on the stage. Miller came from a musically inclined family and grew up singing in the church choir. His first performing gig outside of high school productions and the church was with Disney, recording the Candlelight Processional and Massed Choir Program with Louis Gossett, Jr. Signing that contract with Disney gave Miller a different perspective on his future, one that would take him around the world.

FILLING THE LANE In 2007, Miller started the non-profit organization Filling the Lane with the mission to “Bridge the gaps between education, sports, arts, and community.” According to a press release by Theatre Winter Haven, of which Miller now sits on the board, “Dr. Miller works with at-risk youth to engage them in various activities, such as STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) through basketball.”

Miller attended the University of South Florida, studying Vocal Performance under Annetta Monroe. Monroe suggested he audition for a show at Busch Gardens. Miller took her advice and landed the lead role. After that, he started working for the company Choozi Entertainment, which took him from Dubai to Africa and many places in between. Miller has performed on every continent but Antarctica. The arts are a continued passion for the globe-trotting performer, though that passion has found other avenues for expression that don’t always involve a spotlight.

“Filling the Lane is my baby,” said Miller. The organization was born after a summer team under the Police Athletic League (PAL), with whom Miller had been working with through his job at Denison Middle School, lost funding. Students on the defunct summer team were left asking Coach Miller if they’d get to play the next year. “I told them, ‘You come up with a name, and we can do something. We’ll figure it out,’” he said. The kids came up with the name, Filling the Lane. He thought, “How can we tie that to education, and how can we tie that to growth? [...]

That was that goal. If I was going to create something or build something, how do we tie this into growth in our community and growth for our youth?” The students came up with their mission to “Bridge the gaps between education, sports, and community.”

Miller was insistent on adding the arts into that mission.

Miller’s grandmother babysat many neighborhood kids out of her house. Hers was a home that parents knew they could drop off their children, and they would be fed and well taken care of.

A young Vincent Miller took note of the loving environment his grandmother created. At 98 years old, Miller’s grandmother passed away. Many of those who at one time or another were in her care spoke about Miller’s grandmother. “Listening to the youth that she directly impacted, now grown men and women, saying how she was the reason why they were at the point in their life with success in their lives, means a lot,” he said.

“The goal is to bridge the gap between students who are in middle school and high school to get them into college,” said Miller. Through the program, economically disadvantaged students travel across the country to play basketball.

“Everywhere we go when we play a tournament, whether we’re in Oklahoma, Tennessee, New York, California, we take a tour of the city. We do a history piece of the city, we do a fine dining experience,” said Miller. The goal, he says, is to give his FTL kids experiences they might not otherwise have.

His grandparents’ love and stewardship of community instilled the same within him. Growing up, Miller would volunteer in summer programs, even earning awards for his service. Stepping into the role of educator was natural for Miller. “Growing up in that environment … and seeing the appreciation that the people have for my grandmother and my grandfather – I think that’s why I’m here today.”

The program has gifted Miller memorable moments over the years. One, in particular, stands out in his mind. He took a student to the Florida State University football field. The field was empty, and the boy asked, ‘Coach Miller, do you feel that?’

Miller didn’t understand what the student meant at the moment.

His father passed away five years ago while Miller was in South Africa, bringing him back to Florida, where he finished his PhD

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“It wasn’t until I got back into the hotel, and I realized he was talking about feeling the experience of the crowd yelling his name when he got on the field.” The realization solidified the unique brand of good that Filling the Lane was doing in the lives of its students.

has planned our Black History Month events. In June, Dr. Miller brought the community together in song and spearheaded Theatre Winter Haven’s UNITY Concert, with all the proceeds being donated to six local black charities.”

Having lived in countries and cultures worldwide, Dr. Miller emphasizes the value of and need for diversity. “Diversity in our county is much needed,” he said. “When I go to downtown Winter Haven or downtown Lakeland, and I’m one of the only Black Americans in the restaurant, to me, it’s not because the means are not there, there’s a lack of something somewhere – a lack of trust, a lack of knowledge – more so a lack of trust.”

Filling the Lane currently serves about 150 male and female students, providing a sports and education outlet and community outreach opportunities. Last year in response to the pandemic, FTL fed about 3000 healthcare workers at Winter Haven Hospital. They’ve done a Back to School Bash, where they give away shoes and school supplies, volunteered at nursing homes, and have donated clothing, shoes, and other necessities to the Clothes Closet at Miller’s school. “It’s about being able to be big in the community and do what’s right in the community and teach the youth in the program to give back,” Miller said.

Growing up in Winter Haven, Miller was involved in many facets of the community, from church and volunteering to education and the arts. Being so niched into groups of every ethnicity, Dr. Miller felt he could be “that glue to bring everybody together.”

It started with Brothers United – a program composed of four brothers at Lake Region High School. The concept became a show at Theatre Winter Haven to raised funds for Moffitt Cancer Center.

TEACHER OF THE YEAR Dr. Miller’s work in and out of the classroom earned him recognition in 2020 as Polk County Teacher of the Year. Of the accolade, he said, “It’s a platform. It’s a platform that you can use to spread positive messages, or it’s a platform you use to grow and help people see the benefit of growth and how to grow, especially inside education. [...] Being named Polk County Teacher of the Year was definitely an honor.”

“Growing up in Theatre Winter Haven, again, I was one of the only Black male performers in the theatre, and most of the audience was white, but when we did this show [Brothers United], there were diverse people in the theatre.” He asked himself, “Why can’t this happen all the time? Why does it take my show to diversify the theatre when we should be diverse all the time?”

Miller takes mentorship from the 2020 Florida Teacher of the Year, Dr. Dre Graham. “His platform to me was so inspiring. I always saw him in the community, always doing something, and that motivated me. I took that and said, ‘You know what, if I’m going to be Polk County Teacher of the Year, I want to be that motivation piece too,’” said Miller. Every chance he gets, Miller awards fellow Polk County teachers for outstanding service in education. He wants to do anything he can to motivate his colleagues to excel inside their classrooms.

That show went on annually for some ten years, eventually turning into a show series called Voices. “We started doing a show that was very diverse in African American music and African American history to teach how important that piece is to know about in our community,” said Dr. Miller. He invites performers from all over the world to come to Theatre Winter Haven for a one-day show featuring anything from Motown and Gospel to Black musicals telling a story. He always likes to have a story “of why the African culture is so important, moving from the past and moving to the future and what we brought to the theatre, what Black culture brought to the theatre.”

Now the question is, says Miller, “What’s next?” For the acclaimed performer and community leader, Dr. Vincent Miller, “My ultimate goal is, I want to be president of a major college, and I want my program, FTL, to expand into whatever college I’m working into.”

“Dr. Miller is a leader in our community and has been part of the Theatre Winter Haven family for the better part of two decades,” said Chesnicka. “We are equally as proud of his accomplishments as we are excited to welcome him to our leadership team in our quest to serve our WHOLE community – especially those parts of our community that are historically underserved.”

DIVERSITY AT THEATRE WINTER HAVEN Last month, Dr. Vincent Miller was welcomed to Theatre Winter Haven’s Board of Trustees, tasked with chairing the board’s subcommittee on diversity. “Any organization would be lucky to have Dr. Miller on its team. We have been lucky to have him in our Theatre Family since childhood,” said Producing Director of Theatre Winter Haven, Dan Chesnicka.

“My goals are to do different shows like Voices, to produce different things, and invite people to see the good work we’re doing at Theatre Winter Haven. The goal is to get it exposed and visible, so youth are not scared to come in and say ‘I want to be a part of that.’”

According to a press release from the theatre welcoming him to their board, “For the past five years, Dr. Miller has led Theatre Winter Haven’s efforts to celebrate black voices in the arts and

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16.92 Coffee Matcha Bar Twenty-nine-year-old An’Drew Kamani Williams, aka Drew Willz, has created an ever-evolving brand centered around graphic art, clothing, coffee, matcha, and more. 16.92 Coffee Matcha Bar is in the business of bringing coffee and matcha drinks to Central Florida through the modernity and magic of social media and local collaboration.

His first thought was to roast and sell his own coffee beans, but he thought it would be a good idea to make the drinks too. In early 2020, he started a coffee bar. “Making coffee beans is really hard. Roasting on a popcorn popper, trying to sell to a mass of people is very difficult,” said Williams.

“So, I started working with Ethos Roasters, and now they sponsor me, and we created our own roast together.” Their collaborative roast, Roasted Caramel, is the blend he uses at the 16.92 Coffee Matcha Bar.

The brand took its first breath in 2012 in Williams’ design class. Asked to create a mock brand for an assignment, he thought up 16.92, an homage to his birthday, January 6, 1992. Williams graduated from Keiser University with a degree in graphic design. Along with his music, Drew began doing freelance work around the city, steadily building a collaborating network of vendors and artists. His freelance work entailed album covers, single art, and eventually corporate work – making logos, designing color schemes, and uniforms for businesses. “I feel like I had a brand,” said Williams of the company’s beginnings.

A PERFECT MATCH-A Matcha naturally fits into the equation as an alternative for customers who don’t drink coffee. He first tasted the beverage in New York in 2019 while working as a latte artist at an upscale barbershop in Manhattan.

The mother of William’s son, Winston, is Colombian. Her grandparents own a coffee farm in Colombia and would bring coffee to the States. Williams described it more as a decoration, still in its husk. “I got a popcorn popper and started learning how to roast,” he said. “I would bring it around to local shops to see what people thought. I would ask every owner their opinions of it so that I could get better and better. I finally got it where I wanted it to be, and I started selling it.”

Williams was captivated by a shop across the street, Cha Cha Matcha. It’s peppy pink and green facade invited Drew inside to what all this Fuschia fuss was about. The shop was beautiful and current, playing modern music with a steady flow of customers filtering in to get their much-needed matcha pick-me-up. He didn’t know what matcha was, had never tried it up to that point, and wasn’t exactly a convert when he did. “I had it – it tasted horrible. It was disgusting,” he said. “It was the worst drink I’d ever had. […] It wasn’t until I came back to Florida and started playing with the recipes that I started trying to figure out how I could make it taste better.”

Working as the Supervisor and Drink Consultant for Sabu Ramen at The Joinery, Williams would bring his AeroPress and pour-overs to make drinks for the staff. He said working with Kristy Scott in the past at 5th & Hall “sparked the idea.”

Scott, the Director of Brand Experience at The Joinery, suggested Williams set up 16.92 at the Lakeland food hall.

He utilized YouTube and other vendors to become a matcha master at his bar. “The techniques that I learned are from social media, through different baristas,” said Williams.

He does a podcast on Instagram called “Brewz at Drewz,” where he makes drinks and interviews fellow baristas and artists from around the world.

POPPING UP ON THE COFFEE SCENE

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The 16.92 Coffee Matcha Bar offers refreshers, including macchiatos, classic pour-overs (using his Ethos blend), and matcha drinks. Their drinks are made with alkaline water and organic ingredients, and non-dairy options are available.

COFFEE COLLAB In collaboration with another local business, La Sirena’s, Williams uses their homemade Fresca to combine with his matcha for a refreshing blend of complimenting flavors.

Community collaboration has proved a valuable part of Williams’ business model. “I’m used to that because of music,” he said. “Everything feels like a big DJ Khaled record. It’s like a bunch of features – that’s how I work.”

“I think I’m more of a producer, in a sense. I like to get the best things from everyone and put it together. That’s why I feel like being a bar is the best way for us to showcase different vendors through our taste palette.” The 16.92 Coffee and Matcha Bar premiered at the Buena Market.

Williams said he worked with the market’s founder, Stephanie Gregg, to bring his coffee creations to a market setting. “She helped me launch 16.92 in a market,” he said.

“While she was handling everything for the market, she assisted me as well with 16.92 in the beginning, and we just started growing with each other and growing with the different vendors,” he said of the Buena Market.

Perhaps his most important collaboration is with his team of supporters, including his mom, girlfriend Philli, and son Winston. Williams spoke of his appreciation for the support and influence of his mother. She was an event planner in New York when he was younger, allowing him to meet artists, performers, and personalities like Missy Elliott, P Diddy, and Mike Tyson. “That let me know that that’s obtainable,” he said.

Photo by werlostboys

BREWS, BITCOIN, AND BIG DREAMS For now, Williams is going with the flow. But you can expect matcha more from 16.92 in the coming months and years.

He eventually wants to open a brick and mortar location, with more to follow. Williams’ background is Jamaican, he hails from New York and has attended school in London, saying, “I want to be able to go to all those places and have my work there.” The coffee creative envisions a future in which 16.92 is a cold brew delivery service, accepting modern payment forms like bitcoin. “I want this to be like Apple,” he said.

Williams is happy for Polk County to be the backdrop for his brand-building endeavors. His grandmother first moved to Lakeland when he was in elementary school. He and his mom moved down from New York when Williams was a young teen. “This is an amazing place to live and start a business,” he said. “It’s a small town with a lot of people who love the people who come from here.”

“I think of Publix, and I look up to that. I see where they started, and I like how they treat their customers. […] To know that that came from here, is like, it’s so possible.”

Williams’ advice for others aspiring to create a project, business, or brand of their own? “Whatever is crazy that comes to your mind, just do it.”

Get to know Drew and his up-and-coming coffee bar on social media and the many pop-ups and markets he attends, including the Buena Market and Winter Haven Farmers Market.

Coffeematchabar.com FB @coffeematchabar IG @16.92__ Photo by werlostboys

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Why dining Local Matters

Local Economic Stimulus. When you purchase at locally-owned businesses rather than nationally-owned, more money is kept in the community. Locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers and farms.

Purchasing local helps grow other businesses as well as the local tax base.

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Open Door Wellness Winter Haven yoga teacher Prima Burney is ‘opening the door’ for others to navigate life and healing through her wellness and herbal alchemy business, Open Door Wellness.

Using her own life experiences and talents to help her clients, Burney aims to solidify Open Door Wellness as a positive force in the community.

FROM THE KITCHEN TO THE YOGA STUDIO

Born in Winter Haven, Burney lived in Jacksonville with her grandmother until she passed away. At six years old, she came back to Winter Haven and didn’t venture out again until she was on her own, back to Jacksonville. She graduated from Polk State College and went into the healthcare field with the desire to be a social worker. “I thought that was going to be my life, and then my life decided that I needed more help than I could give other people,” she laughed.

“I started going through those transitions in life again where life was going upside-down. I got divorced, became a single mother, and my life just started to come apart.” She had been attending yoga with a friend who encouraged her to find a yoga studio near her, that it would help her settle the troubles she was facing. Inside Out Yoga was running a three-week unlimited special. “I took them up on that offer, and it took all three weeks for my mind to quiet. But when it did, I thought, ‘Okay, there’s something to this.’” She’s kept with the practice ever since, noting it is the one thing that always “brings me back to center no matter what.”

Her sister had practiced yoga for years and encouraged Burney to try it. A smile flickered across her face as she remembered, “She tried to show me in my mom’s living room.”

She got married and had three children. She returned to Winter Haven in 2007, after her divorce. “I definitely didn’t want to stay, but it’s been this growth and this evolution,” she said. “As Winter Haven has grown, I’ve found myself, I’ve found a home, I’ve found my niche – this place that I’ve gained, this community that I never expected.”

Burney completed YTT (Yoga Teacher Training) last year and now works as an instructor at Inside Out Yoga in Winter Haven. “Jody, from day one when I walked in the door, has been this magnetic, mentoring energy in my life. She made me feel comfortable. One of the things, as an African American, it doesn’t always feel pleasant to walk into a space and be the only one, and not have people look like you and not know how you’re going to fit in. Jody, always, always made this space something that was a safe zone for me,” she said of Inside Out yoga teacher, Jody Reece. “It’s been this thing that has its own energy and its own direction, and I’m just going along for the ride,” she said of her yoga journey.

Burney’s mother came to Winter Haven from Jacksonville to join a church. As all teenagers do, Burney began to forge a path of her own. “It’s kind of this long journey to find who I was and where I fit in the world. That’s why Winter Haven never felt like home until I found that part of me and connected to who I was. It has been this amazing journey that I don’t think I would trade for much else.” Burney credits her own life journey and “not always feeling like I belonged where I was” for her drive to help others. “I didn’t know who my father was until I was about 16, and when I found that out, that was part of what broke my world apart,” she said.

“I wanted to provide support to other teens who had always kind of felt on the outside.”

Slow Flow is the style of yoga she prefers. “I like to take it and make sure that we’re giving attention to our breath, that we’re focusing on our movements, that we’re focusing on holding the poses so that we have time to get out of our head and into our body,” she said. Burney teaches an early bird class, gentle yoga, and hip hop yoga at the downtown studio.

After having her second child two months premature, Burney knew she wanted a change. Cooking had always been a passion, and the door opened to the next transitional stage of her life. She earned a degree from Le Cordon Bleu in Orlando and remained in the culinary field for 15 years.

OPEN DOOR WELLNESS In 2019, Burney did shamanism training in Lakeland. Part of that class included Ayurveda. According to John Hopkins Medicine (hopkinsmedicine.org), “Ayurveda, a natural system of medicine, originated in India more than 3,000 years ago. The term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge). Thus, Ayurveda translates to knowledge of life. Based on the idea

She hasn’t strayed far from the underlying elements of social work, though, saying, “Everything that I’ve done as far as my career, I connect with people. People feel free opening up to me, so I spend a lot of time exploring other people’s lives with them.”

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rooted in our bodies and causing these physical issues,” she said. “Some of that is sometimes just sitting down having a fireside chat, sitting one on one, creating some sacred space and just allowing time for you to download and listen to yourself.”

that disease is due to an imbalance or stress in a person’s consciousness, Ayurveda encourages certain lifestyle interventions and natural therapies to regain a balance between the body, mind, spirit, and the environment.”

“The lightbulb went on,” Burney said. “I was burnt out. I was on my own wellness journey; I was doing yoga, I was taking this shamanism training class.” She remembers thinking, “This is the bridge between my own journey and where I believe I want to go.” Training in Ayurveda, Burney began testing out spice blends with the crew she was training with and got a positive reception. “I started using the tea blends from Ayurveda for myself. In my years of going through culinary, going through my own transitions pretty much wrecked my digestion with stress.”

Burney debuted her initial line of products at Indigo Moon in Bartow. She followed that by attending a few markets until everything closed in response to the pandemic. During that time, she designed her own website. “Since everything has opened back up, we have become a member of the Winter Haven Farmers Market, which we consider our home. It is where we aim to be every Saturday to get our name out there, have conversations, and be a part of the community, which is the ultimate goal when opening Open Door Wellness – being an influential, positive part of the community.”

She began using CCF tea, containing cumin, coriander, and fennel, and was encouraged by its transformative effect on her life. “The herbal alchemy was my play on bringing in some of the Ayurveda into Western herbalism,” said Burney.

She wanted to be respectful of Ayurveda’s origins while including aspects of Western herbalism. “Herbal alchemy is about bringing in herbs and spices and finding how they fit into a plan for your body and your composition,” she explained. “It’s simply about putting them together in a way that could alchemise any problems or any support that you need in your life – that’s my approach to it. […] That comes into looking at the energetic properties of each herb, each spice, the best way to consume that which may be in a tea, maybe in a spice blend, maybe in a tincture.”

Open Door Wellness regularly attends the Winter Haven Farmers Market and Buena Markets in Lakeland. Burney’s market offerings include her prepackaged blends available in bags and tins. Custom blends are available upon consultation. The goal for Burney is to one day have a multipurpose wellness brick and mortar. Perhaps sharing a space with other wellness practitioners where customers can receive spiritual and energy work, select their own herbs, and have custom blends on demand. “I would like to grow the herbs that we are using to make our products,” said the herbal alchemist.

“One of the things that I asked myself in trying to figure out where I wanted to go was ‘How can I use my creative talents and skills in order to help my community?’ Between the yoga and the herbal alchemy, I feel like that’s what my purpose is.”

Through her business, Open Door Wellness, which started in February of last year, Burney offers certified organic herbal products, yoga, energetic work, and herbal wellness sessions. Patrons of Open Door make an appointment through her website for a one-on-one consultation. “A part of what I do is listen to what you’re saying so we know we’re in the right direction — so tracking what really is at the core and the center of what’s going on. A lot of times, we feel that things are physical, but they are actually emotionally

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Open Door Wellness www.opendoorwell.com FB @opendoorapothecary IG @opendoorwellness_wh

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WORDS Jane Martin, City Librarian Winter Haven Public Library 325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven

Check Me Out ;)

THE REVISIONERS

by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton

FRIENDS AND LOVERS

by Eric Jerome Dickey

LUSTER

by Raven Leilani

“The Revisioners” is a multi-generational ghost story that weaves a tale of ancestral magic while examining white supremacy’s persistence and danger. Using two characters - Josephine, who begins life as a slave, and Ava, her great-great-granddaughter Sexton pulls together an emotional story of black motherhood, the power of legacies, intergenerational trauma, and survival.

Last month, bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey passed away. Dickey was a prolific writer, not only of novels but also of short stories, poetry, and comic books. If you haven’t read any of his novels, I recommend “Friends and Lovers.” Written in 1997, it is one of Dickey’s earlier novels. The story centers on four friends and moves through their complicated relationships. Dickey realistically draws the characters and infuses the novel with love, betrayal, friendship, and tragedy.

The characters are flawed, but that actually works to build a genuine connection with each character as the story moves from one point of view to another.

A debut novel focusing on Edie, a young woman who becomes entangled in her married lover’s family. At times, young Edie’s loneliness made the book uncomfortable to read - and yet, I couldn’t put it down. The narrative told all through Edie’s point of view is sensory and detailed, but at the same time unbelievable - making it feel as if you are really in a young woman’s mind. Leilani’s writing is full of sharp points that hurt so good.

THE WATER DANCER

by Ta-Nehisi Coates

SUCH A FUN AGE

by Kiley Reid

PARTY OF TWO

by Jasmine Guillory

THE VANISHING HALF

by Brit Bennett

Ta-Nehisi Coates is known for his non-fiction exploration of contemporary race relations.

“The Water Dancer” is his first foray into fiction - and what a debut! “The Water Dancer” follows Hiram Walker, a slave, who discovers he has the power of “conduction” - a way to teleport. At the core, this book is a powerful portrayal of the emotional trauma of slavery. It successfully explores the nuances of injustice while also building a suspenseful fantasy. I am drawn to historical novels that weave fact with magical realism, and the Water Dancer excels at this form of fiction.

I actually picked up this book not knowing anything about it - I liked the title. And, wow, not what I expected but so much better.

“Such a Fun Age” is part millennial coming of age; part examination of the white “woke” culture. It is the kind of book I put down and immediately wanted to discuss - like with everyone. The book hits on timely subjects like race, class, privilege, job insecurity, and gender politics. The characters are so well drawn; some you may not especially like, but you certainly will recognize. Don’t let the heavy subjects put you off; ultimately, this novel weaves laughter, tears, and anger into immensely readable prose.

Charming, sexy, and romantic - the perfect escape read. “Party of Two” is book 5 of Guillory’s Wedding Date series but easily stands on its own. This book is a romance, but it doesn’t shy away from some heavy topics.

What makes it work is a lot of humor, sexy fun, and food - lots and lots of food.

“The Vanishing Half” is a tale that explores the emotional landscape of racial identity.

The narrative builds around twin sisters, one living as a black woman while the other has secretly passed for a white woman. The story jumps between decades and locations along the way, exploring the unanticipated consequences of life-changing decisions.

Bennett writes in rich detail, creating such memorable places and people. Both emotional and entertaining, I loved this book and know it will stay with me for a long time.

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50th Annual CB&T Lake Wales Arts Festival A Q&A with LWAC Executive Director, Andrew Allen Join the Lake Wales Arts Council for the 50th Annual CB&T Lake Wales Arts Festival! The festival will take place on the Shores of Lake Wailes from 10 am to 5 pm on February 20, and 10 am to 4 pm on February 21, 2021. The family-friendly, free-toattend arts festival is sponsored by Citizens Bank & Trust, Oakley Transport, Polk State College, Petersen Industries, and many more. Stay for even more fun, food, and art on February 20 from 6 pm to 9 pm for the 10th Annual Art-B-Que. We spoke with Lake Wales Arts Council Executive Director Andrew Allen to get the details on this year’s festivities.

H: In addition to fine art from artists around the country, the festival is always alive with music and great food.

Who will be performing throughout the festival, and what food and beverage can guests expect?

H: Fifty years of the Annual CB&T Lake Wales Arts Festival is quite a milestone. Will there be any special events to celebrate throughout the festival this year?

AA: We will be hosting a special 50th celebration on Saturday night from 6 to 9 pm. The event will feature Blue Dog Craft Barbecue, live jazz, and an awards presentation.

AA: Guests can expect live jazz all weekend long. Artists from across the state will be performing, including worldclass performers from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Busch Gardens. We are excited to feature their talents at the Lake Wales Arts Festival.

H: What COVID-19 precautions will be taken to ensure the health and safety of artists and festival-goers?

We have a lot of great food options this year, including Taco Riendo, Chief’s Chill Out truck, Dave’s Jukebox Diner, and Tallulah’s Table by the Sea. The Arts Council will also be raising money for fine arts education scholarships during the event, selling soda and popcorn throughout the duration of the festival. We will have a little bit of everything for our guests during their visit.

AA: It is paramount for our guests to stay safe and healthy while enjoying the Lake Wales Arts Festival. The Lake Wales Arts Council has implemented a variety of new protocols, including mandatory masks for all staff, volunteers, and vendors, expanded event site for more social distancing between artist booths and hospitality, and hand sanitizing stations throughout the festival.

H: We’ve heard the VIP experience is a must! What are VIP ticket prices, and what does that include?

H: How many artists will be exhibiting this year, and what is the prize pool?

AA: VIP tickets are $100 for the entire weekend. They include early admission into the Art-B-Que, all-inclusive food and beverage during the Art-B-Que, luxury lounge seating, free soda and popcorn throughout the weekend, and a VIP taco lunch on Saturday, and an ice cream social on Sunday.

AA: The 50th annual Citizens Bank & Trust Lake Wales Arts Festival will feature over 50 artists from across the nation as they compete for up to $22,000 in awards.

H: Last year’s Art-B-Que event preceding the arts festival was Nashville-themed, complete with live music and tasty barbecue. What’s in store for this year’s 10th Annual ArtB-Que, and where can tickets be purchased?

H: Will there be activities for the kids?

AA: The Family Literacy Academy will be providing children’s activities throughout the entire festival. These activities will be prepackaged each day for families to take around Lake Wailes Park to complete. We will also have socially distant tables within the children’s activity tent.

AA: The Art-B-Que has moved to Saturday night as part of our 50th-anniversary celebration. The event is free to the public, and food and drink will be available for purchase. We are excited to welcome back Blue Dog Craft Barbecue and Grove Roots Brewing as our preferred food and beverage vendors. Guests can purchase VIP tickets for the festival, which include early admission into the Art-B-Que, all you can eat and drink, as well as access to our socially distanced luxury lounge.

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For more event information or purchase VIP tickets, visit Lake Wales Arts Council’s website and social media. www.lakewalesartscouncil.org FB @LakeWalesArtsCouncil IG @lakewalesartscouncil

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Alfred Hair, Peach Cloud Morning, undated

Florida Highwaymen In the early 1950s, Fort Pierce painter A.E. “Bean” Backus trained Highwayman Alfred Hair to paint landscapes and eventually served as a mentor for others, including Harold Newton. Other future Highwaymen saw the work of Hair and Newton and were inspired to try painting themselves. While considered part of the “Indian River School,” the Highwaymen were not a structured group. The artists, aside from Alfred Hair, were not traditionally trained. They learned techniques from one another, while also developing their own style. Unable to be represented in many of the whites-only galleries in Florida, the Highwaymen relied on a method of high-quantity sales of inexpensive paintings, usually for around $25 each.

on the sides of roadways. They would also travel door-to-door and frequented churches and offices. Harold Newton was known to sell his paintings on his bicycle along Florida’s famed U.S. Highway 1. Buyers included doctors, lawyers, real estate agents, and motel owners. The quintessential Florida scenes were also ideal vacation souvenirs because they were inexpensive and relatively easy to transport. Highwaymen even bartered paintings for gas to fuel their indispensable automobiles.

Excerpt from “Florida Highwaymen: From the Roadside to the National Collection” written by Tess Christiansen, Cataloger, The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. nmaahc.si.edu

The 26 original artists are recognized for the vibrant and timeless nature of their images. The scenes the Highwaymen depict suggest serenity and undisturbed wilderness. Beaches, marshes, water birds, and poinciana and palm trees are among the most used imagery. The group did not paint landscapes directly, but rather created these scenes from memory and imagination in their backyards, sometimes surrounded by other Highwaymen.

Contrary to the feeling of serenity embodied in the paintings, the works are a product of the Jim Crow era in the South. Accessible employment for African Americans in Florida usually focused on work in citrus groves, tomato fields, and factories. The Highwaymen turned to painting as a way to earn a living outside this system of demanding manual labor. The Highwaymen are known both for their artistic style and their enterprising response to oppression, seeking to “make a way out of no way.”

Their resourcefulness and resilience were needed to combat the racism and segregation they faced. The artists were barred from showing their works in galleries, art shows, and other venues.

In response, the group became very creative and persuasive salespeople. Most notably, the Highwaymen sold their works havenmagazines.com

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Alfred Hair

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

TASTE OF WINTER HAVEN DINING PASSPORT web.winterhavenchamber.com There is no more important time for us to drive traffic to our local restaurants, bars, and caterers as they were some of the businesses most affected by pandemic response regulations.That is why the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the “Eat Out to Help Out” Dining Passport. For just $50 you can receive a dining passport filled with $10 off coupons to area restaurants, bars and caterers. Coupons are good until Dec. 31, 2021. Purchase online.

DADDY DAUGHTER DATE NIGHT http://bit.ly/DDNB21 Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Daddy Daughter Date Night box provides daughters and fathers the opportunity to spend a special night together at home! The box will be filled with fun activities, food supplies, decorations and much more. This box is intended for dads and daughters up to 10 years-old. Register online at http://bit.ly/ DDNB21. One box per registration. Each box is packaged for one dad and one daughter. Cost: $20 Only 200 boxes available for purchase. First come, first served. February 8 is the last day to register.

AFTER SCHOOL ART: AT HOME EDITION When: Feb. 01, 2021 PolkMuseumofArt.org/After-School Take a journey with your child through the Elements of Art in the comfort of your own home. Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easy-tofollow video instruction by Ms. Fernandez. Project supplies will be available for pickup or shipping.

Feb. 1: Exploring LINE with Scratch Art. MEGA PANTRY DISTRIBUTION When: Feb. 01, 2021 | 3:30 p.m.

Where: Lakes Church

1010 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland If you are in need of food, please stop by and collect a box or bag of free, prepacked groceries.

Volunteers will load the food directly into your vehicle, practicing social distancing guidelines.

Feeding Tampa Bay does not require ID, paperwork, or pre-screening to receive food.

Anyone in need is welcome to come. Pantries operate rain or shine, as long as it safe to distribute.

WATERCOLOR FOR USE IN ILLUSTRATION AND DESIGN When: Feb. 01, 2021 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales

havenmagazines.com

www.lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings Participants may choose to take this course either in-person or watch a livestream of the course every Monday. Ages 15 and up. Limited space. Students will learn the basics of watercolor and its uses as a viable medium in design. Layout, color theory, materials, leading up to eventual production of their own final illustration using the techniques overviewed in this course. Course participants will be required to provide their own materials for this course. Register online. 863-676-8426. Class taught by Ron Bell.

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

Where: Craft + Kitchen

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

BEGINNING DRAWING TECHNIQUES When: Feb. 02, 2021 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings Participants may choose to take this course either in-person or watch a livestream of the course on Tuesdays. Ages 15 and up, limited space. Students will learn drawing basics - including how to break down images, create shading, and show volume and form. There is no prior experience needed.

Register online. 863-676-8426. Taught by Sherry Ross.

CRAFT BEER & BINGO When: Feb. 01, 2021 | 7-9 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Craft Beer & Bingo starts at 7pm, free to play with beer & gift card prizes every Monday at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. They stock over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps. Open 11am-9pm on TRANSCENDENCE When: Feb. 02-14, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org This exhibition features artworks by students grades 9-12 from Polk County School District high schools. Days and hours vary.

863-688-7743

HOW TO MAKE A COMIC FROM START TO FINISH When: Feb. 02, 2021 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings In-personTuesdays, ages 15 and up, limited space.

Comic creators and Publishers, Dwight and Rebecca MacPherson, will take you through the process using their graphic novel, The Imaginary Voyages of Edgar Allan Poe, as an example.

We will break down the entire process together.

Register online.

863-676-8426.

BEGINNING NEEDLEPOINT WITH A TWIST When: Feb. 02, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings In-person workshop onTuesdays, 10am to 12pm.

Ages 18 and up. Limited space. Learn the Basic Tent stitch and it’s variations. From there you will plunge into decorative stitches using beautiful silk threads and metallics. You’ll even learn how to finish and frame your piece in the last session.

Participants will be able to purchase required course materials directly from Kimberly during the first course session. Register online.Taught by a Kimberly design. 863-676-8426

TRIVIA TUESDAYS When: Feb. 02, 2021 | 6:30-8 p.m.

Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co.

302 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven Every Tuesday, hosted by Triviosity Live Events, seating is limited, first come, first serve.Teams may range between 1-8 players. All minors must be accompanied and actively supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

DRAWING PORTRAIT EXPRESSIONS When: Feb. 02, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings Virtual class only. Thursdays, 10am to 12pm. Ages 18 and up, limited space. Learn the foundations of portrait studies and continue to layer on skills and techniques to improve and build natural, emotive expressions to help bring your subject to life. This workshop will cover beginners to advanced artists; reinforcing good habits and skills for those not new to the craft and supporting the growth for budding artists as well. Register online. 863-676-8426.

Taught by Seungdo Hyun.

KUNDALINI - JOURNEY THROUGH THE CHAKRAS When: Feb. 02, 2021 | 6:30-8 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Class size is limited. No walk ins. Reserve your space early. 863-224-2311 CREATING COMMUNITY THROUGH QUILTS & ART When: Feb. 03 - May 15, 2021 Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center

325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales cityoflakewales.com/774/Exhibits The Lake Wales History Museum will display its permanent collection of historical and modern quilts and artwork. The act of making quilts, displaying them in the museum, and showcasing local places of Lake Wales in artwork was a traditional way the Lake Wales History Museum connected with the community. Open Wed-Sat, 10 am -5 pm. 863-678-4182.

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

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland PolkMuseumofArt.org/Quest For the past decade, in addition to working as solo artists, Pierre and Cathy Dutertre have created compelling artwork as a photographic duo, integrating their individual and collective experiences into a thought-provoking and moving body of work like that which forms the centerpiece of this exhibition. Days and hours vary.

863-688-7743

HOMESCHOOL POTTERY WORKSHOP When: Feb. 03, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings In-person Workshop on Wednesdays, ages 6 and up, limited space. Learn a variety of techniques for working with ceramics clay including slab work, coil work, carving, texturizing, and glazing your projects. Learn how to manipulate clay with your hands and a variety of tools. Required supplies will be provided by the Lake Wales Arts Council.

Register online. 863-676-8426.

LANDSCAPES IN OIL When: Feb. 04, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings In-person workshopThursdays, ages 18 and up, limited space. Refine your oil painting skills with this workshop that takes a deep dive into painting landscapes in oil from reference photos.

Expect to spend time practicing your skills with exercises for mastery, developing under paintings, understanding color, and recreating master works.

This workshop is created for skilled artists looking to enhance their work with new techniques.

Register online. 863-676-8426. Taught by Blair Updike.

LAKELANDPAL MOBILE OUTREACH When: Feb. 04, 2021 | 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: Washington Park

301 W Seventh St., Lakeland lakelandpal.com Police Athletic League is continuing with their new mobile outreach efforts. The PAL Officers will be on-site with snacks and setting up games to connect with kids and share some opportunities going on with PAL. All ages are welcome and it’s completely FREE. INTRODUCTION TO JAPANESE FINE ARTS When: Feb. 04, 2021 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Arts Center

1099 SR 60 E, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org/class-offerings Participants may choose to take this course either in-person or watch a livestream of the course onThursdays. Ages 18 and up, limited space.

Each week of this course will dive into a traditional Japanese Fine Art and examine how that Fine Art has been modernized in Japanese and American cultures. Part art history, part theory, and part practical workshop; students will experiment with Manga, Kurinuki (ceramics), Irezumi (tattooing), Suibokuga (ink wash), Netsuke (miniature sculpture), and even Buredo Tanzo (swordsmithing). Register online.

863-676-8426.Taught by Hiroshi.

CRAFT + KITCHEN TRIVIA NIGHT When: Feb. 04, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

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

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Join us every Saturday morning to celebrate a healthy and connected community event that supports local businesses. The Winter Haven Farmers Market features a variety of locally-grown food, artisan food vendors, plants, makers & food trucks. The market is located in the BB&T Bank lot on the NE corner of 3rd St and Ave C SW across from Grove Roots in downtown Winter Haven. Follow us on Facebook for weekly updates on vendors.

We have made a few changes in response to COVID. We require our vendors to wear masks and we encourage our guests to do the same. Hand sanitizing stations are set up, please remember to social distance yourself from others.

Interested vendors may apply online.

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@winterhavenfarmersmarket

MONTHLY FOOD PANTRY When: Feb. 05, 2021 | 11 a.m.

Where: 2150 Bomber Rd., Winter Haven In partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay and United Way of Central Florida, Central Florida Health Care is proud to announce a FREE food pantry for the Polk County families of Winter Haven. During the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month, residents can begin to line up at 11:00 a.m.

Each family will receive a week’s worth of free food that will feed a family of four. No qualifications are necessary. Feel free to contact Central Florida Health Care with any questions at 866-234-8534.

Available on a first come, first serve basis, while supplies last. All family members must remain in their vehicle. Please open your trunk and the food will be placed inside.

COLOR THE TRAIL: THE REVENGE OF SASQUATCH When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 7 a.m.

Where: Bone Valley ATV Park

10427 County Rd 630 W, Lakeland runsignup.com/Race/FL/Bartow/ ColorTheTrailTheRevengeofSasquatch Color the Trail is an outdoor race that now features a 10k, 5k and 1 mile fun run! The courses will wind through the trails of Bone Valley ATV Park and consist of uneven terrain, small hills and possible Sasquatch sightings! Fun for all ages!

The event will be timed by FITNiche and will end with an awards ceremony for various age groups.

Register online.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE AND END-OF-LIFE ELECTRONICS COLLECTION EVENT When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: 605 Evelyn Ave., Lakeland

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City of Lakeland’s Solid Waste, in coordination with the Polk County Solid Waste Division, is sponsoring a free collection event. Acceptable Materials:Paints, paint thinners, fluorescent light bulbs, motor oil, drain cleaners, pool chemicals, insecticides, household batteries, etc. No biohazard (medical) waste or business waste will be accepted. Electronics accepted are computers, monitors, keyboards, terminals, televisions, stereos, printers, fax machines, videogame consoles, wireless devices, etc. No more than five electronic items per household, please. Questions, please call Debbie Almon, Solid Waste Program Coordinator, at 863-834-8778.

of nature gives kids the comfort they need.

Nature Adventurer classes work to restore the bond between people and nature. Families will learn alongside each other, to open up the natural world for your child, making it fun and meaningful. Families meet at the picnic area. We will be practicing physical distancing by sitting at picnic tables. There will be short guided lessons for each topic, with mindfulness and nature education topics. Then families go out into the Gardens to practice the topic for the day.Free for Members/$15 per family for Non-members.

863-734-1222.

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

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW

Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and a makers.

Enjoy live music. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. More info on FB@winterhavenfarmersmarket.

Interested vendors apply online at winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

POWER FOODS FOR A HEALTHY HEART When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Hear how a plant-based diet can also help improve blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis. Lace up your walking shows to participate in aerobic activities that will improve heart health, release stress, and help burn those extra calories. Learn how to make guilt-free, plant-based chocolate desserts for your favorite Valentine packed with hidden nutrients, not hidden fat! $35 for members/$50 for Nonmembers. 863-734-1222.

NATURE ADVENTURERS: BUILDING FAMILIARITY AND SAFETY IN NATURE When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 10-11 a.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org February Topic: Knowing the dangers of the natural world is important for kids to stay safe in nature. Building a careful understanding

VIRTUAL FOSTER CARE CLASS When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org Are you interested in learning what it takes to become a foster caregiver and provide a safe & loving home for children in your community? Class is every Saturday for 3 weeks. To register, you must complete the following steps: 1. Call (863)-5198900 x 2892. Complete a short interview over the

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phone to determine eligibility for the program. 3.

Watch our Foster Care Info Session video: https:// youtu.be/Bn65oEI416M OAK HILL CEMETERY TOUR When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 11 a.m.

Where: Polk County History Center

100 E Main St, Bartow polk-county.net/history-center/education Learn about historic Oak Hill Cemetery and those interred here. The tour starts at the History Center with a short one-mile walk that includes historic landmarks along the route. Oak Hill Cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 with the earliest recorded burial dating to 1860.The cemetery tour is offered at 11 a.m. the first Saturday of every month, November through April. The cemetery ground is uneven and visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear.Groups may request a reservation prior to the tour.Walkins welcome.

(863) 534-4381.

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

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Space is limited, register online in advance. Join Cosmic Sound Healer, Buffy La Roux as she facilitates a high vibratory journey of Sound through time and space. During this deeply meditative and transformative experience, Buffy guides us inward through a sound bath of deeply shifting vocal toning, singing, frequencies and quartz crystal singing bowls. 863-224-2311.

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

Where: MLK Jr. Park

199 E Lake Silver Dr. NE

Winter Haven A FREE family-friendly ski show! Concessions available for purchase. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. On the 1st and 3rd Saturdays in Feb, March & April.

FOOD FOR ALL “TAILGATE” GALA When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Plant City Stadium

1810 S Park Rd., Plant City ufbpc.org/Food-for-all-gala Guests will enjoy music, food, lawn games, corn hole tournament and mingling with friends on the Plant City Stadium field, casual football attire is strongly, encouraged. All proceeds will directly benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City.Tickets are $100/person. Visit www.ufbpc.org/Food-forall-gala for sponsorship opportunities.

JOHN ALLEN JAMES When: Feb. 06, 2021 | 7:30-10 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Listen to live music from John Allen James at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop, with over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps.

OPEN HOUSE SHOWCASE When: Feb. 07, 2021 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Balmoral Event Center

116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City feltrimresorts.com/balmoral-event-center Interested in checking out Balmoral Event Center

for an upcoming event? Meet with the event planners and take a personalized tour of Polk County’s newest venue.The in-house chef will provide samples from the vast catering menu. A full bar will be available to purchase drinks. Free to attend. 866-584-5527.

BEGINNER BEEKEEPING CLASS When: Feb. 07, 2021 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Mann Lake Beekeeping Supplies

301 Bert Schulz Blvd., Winter Haven Learn the basics of what you’ll need to become a successful beekeeper. Free! You must register to attend. To register, please call 800-880-7694.

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

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Enjoy $1 off drafts & $5 dinner franks at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop with over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps to try a beer or take home a growler. Open 11am-9pm on Sundays.

AFTER SCHOOL ART: AT HOME EDITION When: Feb. 08, 2021 PolkMuseumofArt.org/After-School Take a journey with your child through the Elements of Art in the comfort of your own home. Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easy-tofollow video instruction by Ms. Fernandez. Project supplies will be available for pickup or shipping.

February 8 — Drawing SHAPES in One-Point Perspective. Members, $10. Non-Members, $15.

MEGA PANTRY DISTRIBUTION When: Feb. 08, 2021 | 3:30 p.m.

Where: Lakes Church

1010 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland If you are in need of food, please stop by and collect a box or bag of free, prepacked groceries.

Volunteers will load the food directly into your vehicle, practicing social distancing guidelines.

Feeding Tampa Bay does not require ID, paperwork, or pre-screening to receive food.

Anyone in need is welcome to come.Pantries operate rain or shine, as long as it safe to distribute.

VALENTINE’S DINNER When: Feb. 12, 2021 | 6-9 p.m.

Where: Balmoral Event Center

116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City feltrimresorts.com/balmoral-event-center/ Enjoy a romantic 3-course dinner, celebrating Valentine’s Day. All guests will receive a glass of wine and a champagne toast.Dinner includes your choice of water, tea, or lemonade. A full bar will be available to purchase additional drinks.Price: $45.

For questions related to food allergies and other special dietary needs and requests, email events@ feltrimresorts.com. 866-584-5527.

VIRTUAL FOSTER CARE CLASSES When: Feb. 09, 2021 | 6-8 p.m. heartlandforchildren.org Are you interested in learning what it takes to become a foster caregiver and provide a safe & loving home for children in your community? Class is every Tuesday & Thursday evening for 3 weeks.

To register, you must complete the following steps: 1. Call (863)-519-8900 x 2892. Complete a short interview over the phone to determine eligibility for the program. 3. Watch our Foster Care Info Session video: https://youtu.be/Bn65oEI416M

PARTNER YOGA FOR VALENTINES DAY WITH ALI AND JODY When: Feb. 12, 2021 | 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Ali and Jody will guide you through a series of inclusive partner yoga poses for Valentines Day.This class will be playful and fun with a SWEET playlist! This experience encourages communication, mindfulness kindness, intimacy and LOVE through touch, talk and expression.

Space is limited, reserve in advance. $30/couple.

863-224-2311.

LAKELANDPAL MOBILE OUTREACH When: Feb. 11, 2021 | 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: Webster Park

1235 North Webster Avenue Lakeland lakelandpal.com Our Police Athletic League is continuing with their new mobile outreach efforts. The PAL Officers will be on-site with snacks and setting up games to connect with kids and share some opportunities going on with PAL. All ages are welcome and it’s completely FREE.

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

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW

Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and makers.

Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods

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

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

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and freshly picked produce. Live music. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. More info on FB@ winterhavenfarmersmarket. Interested vendors apply online at winterhavenfarmersmarket.com TOULOUSE-LAUTREC & THE BELLE EPOQUE When: Feb. 13 - May 23, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org A master painter, printer, and illustrator, Toulouse-Lautrec saw no line between fine and commercial art. From his paintings and drawings to the advertisements he was commissioned to produce, he created the timeless scenes of France’s cabarets, concert halls, and theaters. Schedule your visit online. 863-688-7743.

CUPID’S LANE When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Westwood Park

1145 36th St. NW, Winter Haven Cupid’s Lane is hosted by Wilfred Smith Resource Center. It’s a family-fun event that features arts and crafts, candy (yum)!, music, games and much more. For more information, please call (863) 289-7898. Free admission.

GALENTINE’S SHOPPING PARTY When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Bungalow Boutique and Gifts

1026 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland Grab your Gal Pals for a day full of Friendship and Love! New Spring Arrivals, Fun Photo Ops,

havenmagazines.com

Yummy Treats and Sweet Deals all day long. Free gift for all attendees.

The Lost Words of a Trying Poet Behind the beauty

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

PolkMuseumofArt.org/ArtLab Join us the Second Saturday of each month (September — May) 10:30am-noon, as you and students of all ages will be introduced to one of the Museum’s exhibitions in a fun, entertaining and accessible manner through hands-on learning.

Cost: Members, Free. Non-Members, $5, Preregistration required.

Beauty What is it?

Is it the way you look?

The way you smile?

The way you laugh?

Maybe?

Is it the thing that shows us who we really are?

There can be bad and good beauty.

Just look into their eyes Are they filled with laughter?

Are they filled with judgment?

But, let us not forget about broken beauty My favorite kind The beauty that’s seen it all The beauty that has walked through the fire and survived.

Be careful of this type of beauty for they don’t care Because why should they?

A beautiful animal walks through the forest knowing it’s beautiful It doesn’t need words of approval Or confirmation When a bird sings Does it need to sing for an audience to know that it can sing?

No For it doesn’t need acknowledgment The broken beauty sees right through it all For they’ve been through it all Love them Hate them They don’t care And neither should you

ZOOM AND VROOM When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 11 a.m. polk-county.net/history-center/zoom-andvroom Go West Polk Countian: Exploring Kathleen, Lakeland and Mulberry. Each digital session features: A virtual history lesson, a routed half to full day driving tour that guides you from one historic location to the next, interactive activities designed for all ages, thematic activities including crafts and recipes. Suggested book readings to extend the learning experienceZoom sessions are the 2nd Saturday of each month, additional materials can be picked up at the Polk County History Center Tuesday — Saturday between 9am and 5pm. (863) 534-4386 DEEPEN YOUR HEART CONNECTION When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 1-3 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com This two hour class will be an exploration in expanding your Heart’sintuition power and

May the beauty never die, In the young heart that’s trying to live.

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creating more space for selflove. Shift and reset your attitude. Lift your vibration to influence your Self & others. Create a new state of being. Learn how to share these simple tools to enlighten others.

Register in advance. 863-224-2311 $40 VIRTUAL EVENT: THE FLORIDA GARDENER: SHEET MULCH GARDENING When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 2-3 p.m. boktowergardens.org Learn to convert unused, grassy areas to vegetable beds or flowerbeds while recycling waste from your yard. In this class, we will talk about soil building techniques and garden bed placement.

Free for Members/$10 for Non-members. Requires reservation, Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you.

THE NEWLYWED GAME When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 6-9 p.m.

Where: Balmoral Event Center

116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City feltrimresorts.com/balmoral-event-center Enjoy a romantic 3-course dinner and a game inspired by the popular Newlywed Game show from the late ‘60’s. All guests will receive a complimentary glass of champagne.Dinner includes your choice of water, tea, or lemonade.

A full bar will be available to purchase additional drinks.Ticket price: $45. For questions related to food allergies and other special dietary needs and requests, contact events@feltrimresorts.com.

866-584-5527.

JR SPROUSE When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland

Listen to JR Sprouse live at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. Visit Lakeland’s best craft beer bar and eatery, serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week. With over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps to try a beer or take home a growler.

SMOKEPOINT When: Feb. 13, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: Swan Brewing

115 W Pine St., Lakeland Please join us for a fun evening out. Great craft beer selections, delicious food and live music!

Smokepoint starts at 7pm. This is an outdoor performance. Florida Rock Band SmokePoint performs classic and modern rock/pop hits.

FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE When: Feb. 14, 2021 | 1-2 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Rekindle your passion for chocolate while sampling and learning how to make a simple dark chocolate syrup and add various flavors like brandy and herbs. $10 members/$17 for Non-members. 863734-1222.

AFTER SCHOOL ART: AT HOME EDITION When: Feb. 15, 2021 | 12 a.m.

PolkMuseumofArt.org/After-School Take a journey with your child through the Elements of Art in the comfort of your own home. Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easy-to-follow video instruction by Ms.

Fernandez. February 15 — TEXTURE and VALUE in Zentangles.

MEGA PANTRY DISTRIBUTION When: Feb. 15, 2021 | 3:30 p.m.

Where: Lakes Church

1010 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland If you are in need of food, please stop by and collect a box or bag of free, prepacked groceries.

Volunteers will load the food directly into your vehicle, practicing social distancing guidelines.

Feeding Tampa Bay does not require ID, paperwork, or pre-screening to receive food.

Anyone in need is welcome to come. Pantries operate rain or shine, as long as it safe to distribute.

THE MOONLIGHT MARKET When: Feb. 17, 2021 | 6-9 p.m.

Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co.

302 3rd St. SW, Winter Haven The Moonlight Market is comprised of vendors from all over Central Florida, local food trucks, and live music! Vendor tables will be spaced throughout the brewery and beer garden for social distancing.

REPUBLICAN WOMEN’S CLUB OF LAKELAND, FEDERATED When: Feb. 18, 2021 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Hilton Garden Inn Lakeland

3839 Don Emerson Dr., Lakeland Meets on the third Thursday of each month Make Reservations: - Noel Trees — 863-680-1340 or Jane Stevenson 757-218-6885. We are a friendly group of Republican Women of all ages who enjoy sharing political views and meeting our candidates as they present their platforms to us at

our luncheon meeting. We volunteer for a variety of events, voting registration of new residents of Lakeland, as well as promoting college students to get involved in the political environment. We welcome visitors and are always seeking new members to join us. For additional info, contact Jane Stevenson, Treasurer, stevenjane11365@aol.com VIRTUAL MEMBER ONLY EVENT: DIGGING DEEPER: MEET THE HORTICULTURALISTS When: Feb. 18, 2021 | 2-3 p.m. boktowergardens.org Start tracking your plant-related questions for this special Zoom class with a panel of the Bok Tower Garden horticulture experts. Learn how they care for this magnificent Garden.For Bok Tower Garden Members Only, registration required, Zoom login instructions will be emailed to you.

LAKELANDPAL MOBILE OUTREACH When: Feb. 18, 2021 | 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: North Lake Wire Park

725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave Lakeland lakelandpal.com The Police Athletic League is continuing with their new mobile outreach efforts. The PAL Officers will be on-site with snacks and setting up games to connect with kids and share some opportunities going on with PAL. All ages are welcome and it’s completely FREE. VIRTUAL FLORIDA SPEAKER SERIES - THE GREEN BOOK BY CHERYL HOWARD When: Feb. 18, 2021 | 6 p.m. cityoflakewales.com/767/Events Discover what “The Green Book” is and was for

African American’s all over the US during the period spanning 1930-60’s, and the laws that existed which made owning “the book” potentially life-saving. Free to the public. Register online.

863-678-4182 MONTHLY FOOD PANTRY When: Feb. 19, 2021 | 11 a.m.

Where: 2150 Bomber Rd., Winter Haven In partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay and United Way of Central Florida, Central Florida Health Care is proud to announce a FREE food pantry for the Polk County families of Winter Haven. During the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month, residents can begin to line up at 11:00 a.m.

Each family will receive a week’s worth of free food that will feed a family of four. No qualifications are necessary. Feel free to contact Central Florida Health Care with any questions at 866-234-8534.

Available on a first come, first serve basis, while supplies last. All family members must remain in their vehicle. Please open your trunk and the food will be placed inside.

KUNDALINI MANTRA SOUND BATH When: Feb. 19, 2021 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Join us in an evening of Sound Healing. Ali will lead you in opening sacred space externally and internally. We then turn our attention to mantra.

Mantra is a sanskrit word that describes a spirtual formula. Mantras work in specific ways bringing energy and consciousness into the spine, the shushumma, and therefore the chakras located along the spine for a specific purpose, producing specific effect. Register in advance. 863-224-2311

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 60 -

I am a child with food allergies ...

I want to tell you …

• That my food allergies are a serious medical condition, not a choice.

• That, just like me, 1 in 13 kids has food allergies.

• That I look “normal” because, if I’m not exposed to food allergens, I’m in good health.

• If I accidentally eat a food allergen, I could end up rushed to hospital with anaphylaxis. I could even die.

• I want to play with your kid. I want to be included.

Here’s what I’m not …

• I am not a picky eater (exception: liver!).

• I am not “weak”. My immune system just mistakes some foods for enemies.

• I am not trying to inconvenience you, I just want to feel safe.

I want you to know …

• When you take care not to expose me to allergens, you makeAllergy/Immunology my day!

Kathryn Convers, MD Board-certified: Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, AND I don’t enjoy of foodPediatrics allergies.

Collaborative Faculty Assistant •Professor with USF Morsani School of Medicine • I just want to learn and live and have fun. Just like your kid.

Phone: 863-213-1010 || Address: 4325 Highland Park Blvd.,Lakeland || Web: LakelandAllergy.com Most major medical insurance, and all awareness ages accepted.

Pleasepatients support 59 foodof allergy and research!

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST When: Feb. 19 - Mar. 07, 2021 Where: Lakeland Community Theatre

121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland lakelandcommunitytheatre.com Lakeland Community Theatre’s 15th anniversary of producing this modern Broadway classic based on the beloved Academy Award-winning animated feature, purchase ticket in advance.

Days and times vary. 863-603-7529.

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

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW

Winter Haven winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and makers.

Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat� foods and freshly picked produce. Live music. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

HARRISON SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS SENIOR SHOWCASE When: Feb. 20 - Mar. 21, 2021 Where: Polk Museum of Art

800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Harrison School for the Arts annual showcase presents the work of graduating seniors from the visual arts department. Days and hours vary.

Schedule your visit online.

863-688-7743

FAMILY GAME DAY When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Wabash Community Center

1230 Southern Ave, Lakeland Family Game Day is a family-fun event that features life-size games, arts and crafts, music, and a free hot dog lunch (first come, first served).

The day will be full of laughs, games and friendly competition amongst the family! Free admission!

For more information, please call (863) 2844223.

THE 50TH LAKE WALES ARTS FESTIVAL When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: Lake Wailes Park

499 E Park Avenue, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org Get ready for the 50th anniversary of the Lake Wales Arts Festival! The festival is celebrating and exhibiting quality works of art by fine artists and artisans. We hope to see you there for two full days of art, music, and culture! VIP experiences available at centralfloridatix.comThis event is an outdoors and socially-distanced art walk with hospitality areas, and hand sanitation stations throughout the entire festival.Masks required for all vendors, staff, and volunteers.

ART-B-QUE When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 6-9 p.m.

Where: Lake Wailes Park/Gazebo

499 E Park Avenue, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org Enjoy food from Blue Dog Craft Barbecue, drinks from Grove Roots Brewing, and socially-distanced luxury lounge seating. Celebrate 50 years of the Lake Wales Arts Festival! Tickets are $15/adults, $10/kids ages 12 and under. 863-676-8426.

DRAG SHOW When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 7-10 p.m.

Where: Balmoral Event Center

116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City feltrimresorts.com/balmoral-event-center Join us for a delightfully entertaining dinner that will combine sketch comedy, dance, performance art, improv, and drag. This highly anticipated event is hosted by Trishelle Michaels and will sell out quickly! Ticket price: $35. 866-584-5527.

VOICES: “HOPE IN THE MIDST OF PERIL�

When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Chain O’ Lakes Stadium

500 Cletus Allen Drive

Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com/stadium-events/ VOICES is a celebration of the African American Voice in Arts, hosted by Filling The Lane, Theatre of Winter Haven, Brothers United, and The Winter Haven High School’s Culture Connection Club.

Gates will open at 5:30PM for VIP ticket holders with a 6:30PM start show time. Guests will enjoy a musical review of Soul Music and “Good News� music. 863-294-SHOW (7469).

THE 50TH LAKE WALES ARTS FESTIVAL When: Feb. 21, 2021 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Lake Wailes Park/Gazebo

499 E Park Avenue, Lake Wales lakewalesartscouncil.org Get ready for the 50th anniversary of the Lake Wales Arts Festival!The festival celebrating and exhibiting quality works of art by fine artists and artisans. We hope to see you there for two full days of art, music, and culture! VIP experiences available at centralfloridatix.comThis event is an outdoors and socially-distanced art walk with hospitality areas, and hand sanitation stations throughout the entire festival.Masks required for all vendors, staff, and volunteers.

GENE EANETT When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Listen to Gene Eanett live at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. Visit Lakeland’s best craft beer bar and eatery, serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week. With over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps to try a beer or take home a growler.

CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI SHOW When: Feb. 20, 2021 | 3:30 p.m.

Where: MLK Jr. Park

199 E Lake Silver Dr. NE

Winter Haven A FREE family-friendly ski show! Concessions available for purchase. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. On the 1st and 3rd Saturdays in Feb, March & April.

BEGINNER BEEKEEPING CLASS When: Feb. 21, 2021 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Mann Lake Beekeeping Supplies

301 Bert Schulz Blvd., Winter Haven Learn the basics of what you’ll need to become a successful beekeeper. Free! You must register to attend.To register, please call 800-880-7694.

Valentine’s Day C e le b ra t io n

Join us for a 4 Course Dinner*

Two Seatings 5 & 7pm on Saturday February 13th $58 per person // Complimentry glass of wine & rose Reservations Highly Recommended

Entertainment 5-9pm Pablo Balata // Bossa Nova Guitar 6035 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven 833-633-4745 // mediterraneanfreshgrill.com

havenmagazines.com

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CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH When: Feb. 21, 2021 | 4:45 p.m.

Where: Inside Out Yoga

52 4th St. NW, Winter Haven ioyogastudio.com Space is limited, register in advance.$20 Join Cosmic Sound Healer, Buffy La Roux as she facilitates a high vibratory journey of Sound through time and space. During this deeply meditative and transformative experience, Buffy guides us inward through a sound bath of deeply shifting vocal toning, singing, frequencies and quartz crystal singing bowls. 863-224-2311.

DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF EAST POLK/RIDGE When: Feb. 23, 2021 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: The R-Place Eatery Restaurant

35523 Hwy 27, Haines City Meets every 4th Tuesday . All Democratic women are welcome to join the club, where we discuss shared political views and volunteer for activities that help elect fellow Democrats. Contact: Anne Huffman, Club President (863-242-3230) and annehuffman01@gmail.com

LAKELANDPAL MOBILE OUTREACH When: Feb. 25, 2021 | 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Where: Jackson Park

1130 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave Lakeland lakelandpal.com The Police Athletic League is continuing with their new mobile outreach efforts. The PAL Officers will be on-site with snacks and setting up games to connect with kids and share some opportunities going on with PAL. All ages are welcome and it’s completely FREE.

THE LISTENING ROOM When: Feb. 23, 2021 | 7-10 p.m.

Where: Balmoral Event Center

116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City feltrimresorts.com/balmoral-event-center The Listening Room creates a space for local musicians to share their talents. Balmoral Event Center welcomes artists on the last Tuesday of every month. On these nights, they’ll host 4 to 7 artists who will perform their original work. A full bar will be open with hand-crafted food prepared by the in-house chef. Event price: $10 ($15 at the door) - 100% given to musicians.

AFTER SCHOOL ART: AT HOME EDITION When: Feb. 22, 2021 | 12 a.m.

PolkMuseumofArt.org/After-School Take a journey with your child through the Elements of Art in the comfort of your own home. Designed for the parent and child to learn together, each independent project will include reusable materials to share between parent and child as well as private web-links for super easy-tofollow video instruction by Ms. Fernandez. Project supplies will be available for pickup or shipping.

February 22 — Positive and Negative SHAPES. Register online.

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT 5K When: Feb. 26, 2021 | 7 p.m.

Where: BB&T Bank

250 Magnolia Ave SW

Winter Haven.

Run, walk, jog or glow! Presented by the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven. Tickets available at active.com.

HEART CENTERED YOGA AND MINDFUL MEDITATION When: Feb. 27, 2021 | 9-10:15 a.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Join Kelly Andrews for a morning of bliss outdoors.

The class format includes a slow, “heartFULL” yoga practice with time for relaxation, reflection, and gentle movements followed by a calming and nurturing meditation. All levels are welcome. Free for members/$15 for Non-members.

863-734-1222.

VIRTUAL OR IN PERSON MUSEUM BOOK CLUB When: Feb. 24, 2021 | 12 p.m.

Where: Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center

325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales cityoflakewales.com/767/Events February book: The Black Rose by Tananarive Due. Read the book and come ready to discuss the best non-fiction books. Free to the public. Books are available to check out free of charge at the Museum while supplies last. 863-678-4182.

MEGA PANTRY DISTRIBUTION When: Feb. 22, 2021 | 3:30 p.m.

Where: Lakes Church

1010 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland If you are in need of food, please stop by and collect a box or bag of free, prepacked groceries.

Volunteers will load the food directly into your vehicle, practicing social distancing guidelines.

Feeding Tampa Bay does not require ID, paperwork, or pre-screening to receive food.

Anyone in need is welcome to come. Pantries operate rain or shine, as long as it safe to distribute.

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

Where: NE corner of Third St. & Ave. C SW

Winter Haven

winterhavenfarmersmarket.com The Market features a variety of farmers, food trucks, artisan food vendors, plants, and makers.

Enjoy a strong selection of “ready-to-eat” foods and freshly picked produce. Live music. Located across from Grove Roots in the parking lot of the BB&T Bank building on the NE corner of Third St. and Ave C SW in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday.

FRESH BITES: RELAXING AFTERNOON TEA When: Feb. 27, 2021 | 2-3:30 p.m.

Where: Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktowergardens.org Take time out of your busy schedule to slow down and savor the finer things from the garden. Enjoy an afternoon tea with light and healthy fair and participate in a tea tasting with popular good for you herbal tea blends. $15 members/$30 for Nonmembers, purchase tickets online or in person.

863-734-1222.

SG WOOD When: Feb. 27, 2021 | 6:30 p.m.

Where: Craft + Kitchen

3234 S Florida Ave, Lakeland Listen to SG Wood live at Florida’s First Independent Beer Bottle Shop. Visit Lakeland’s best craft beer bar and eatery, serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week. With over 300 craft beers, imports, and ciders including 25 taps to try a beer or take home a growler.

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

ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE Serving those in our care with respect while providing a supportive and enriching lifestyle • Restaurant Style Dining • Activities • Transportation

• Housekeeping • Emergency Response System • 24-hour Access To Trained & Friendly Staff

PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL TOUR Haines City 863.968.7851

301 Peninsular Drive,Haines City svannahcourthainescity.com Assisted Living Facility License #9382 2019

Best of WINNER

Bartow 863.578.8503

290 Idlewood Avenue, Bartow savannahcourtbartow.com Assisted Living Facility License #9888

SIGNATURE COMMUNITIES OF SENIOR LIVING MANAGEMENT CORP

61

Lake Wales 863.679.8246

12 E. Grove Ave., Lake Wales savannahcourtlakwwales.com Assisted Living Facility License #9383

Sold Dollar Home 59.34% 2019: $229,943,606 2020: $366,391,837

Avg. Sale Price 15.74% 2019: $207,718 2020: $240,415

Units Sold

How Many Buyers Are Looking For Your House?

37.67% 2019: 1,107 2020: 1,524

Active Listings

39.67% 2019: 3,103 2020: 1,872

havenmagazines.com

863-419-9010 863-875-5656 304 East Park St, 36248 US-17, Haines City Auburndale

863-324-1000 230 W. Central Ave, Winter Haven

Numbers reflect sums for December of 2019 & 2020 in Polk County

62

SOLD HOMES

2220 OAK DR......................................... BARTOW......... 12/4/2020...........$110,000 295 CARPENTER AVE............................. BARTOW......... 12/4/2020..........$140,000 1720 LAGOON CIR................................. BARTOW......... 12/8/2020.......... $227,000

AUBURNDALE

338 KISSENGEN PARK DR...................... BARTOW........12/10/2020.......... $267,500

204 WHISPERING OAKS WAY........ AUBURNDALE......... 12/2/2020............$55,000

515 BROADWAY AVE.............................. BARTOW......... 12/3/2020......... $320,000

240 WHISPERING OAKS WAY........ AUBURNDALE.......... 12/1/2020............$55,000

DAVENPORT

245 WHISPERING OAKS WAY........ AUBURNDALE......... 12/9/2020............$55,000

2132 ST GEORGE DR.........................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020............$53,800

461 ADAMS VIEW LN..................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020........... $69,000

152 SILVER MAPLE BND.....................DAVENPORT..........12/7/2020..........$100,000

163 PARADISE LN........................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020........... $78,000

237 FIDDLEWOOD CT......................DAVENPORT..........12/7/2020..........$100,000

125 MCKEAN ST............................. AUBURNDALE......... 12/3/2020..........$140,000

156 AFRICAN DAISY CT.....................DAVENPORT......... 12/3/2020...........$105,700

148 JULIE LN B................................ AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020..........$160,000

147 VERBENA ST...............................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020.......... $158,000

308 BENNETT ST........................... AUBURNDALE..........12/7/2020.......... $185,000

161 SILVER MAPLE BND.....................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $216,000

609 ARIANA AVE........................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/2/2020.......... $195,000

109 SILVER MAPLE BND....................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020...........$220,100

515 VALENTINA LN......................... AUBURNDALE.......... 12/1/2020......... $208,500

514 NICHOLSON DR.........................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020..........$225,000

428 CAPRI WAY............................. AUBURNDALE..........12/7/2020..........$220,500

208 FIDDLEWOOD CT......................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020.......... $227,600

412 BURNHAM CIR........................ AUBURNDALE......... 12/3/2020..........$223,000

1 W MAPLE ST...................................DAVENPORT......... 12/3/2020..........$235,000

405 BURNHAM CIR....................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020..........$225,000

279 FOXTAIL LOOP...........................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020.......... $239,700

147 HARBOR WAY.......................... AUBURNDALE.........12/11/2020...........$227,300

417 DEL SOL AVE...............................DAVENPORT......... 12/9/2020......... $240,000

578 VALENTINA LN........................ AUBURNDALE......... 12/9/2020..........$230,900

489 NOVA DR...................................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020.......... $241,000

164 BELLARIA CT........................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020.......... $237,900

151 WINSOR AVE...............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020......... $244,000

205 WHISPERING OAKS WAY........ AUBURNDALE........12/10/2020.......... $243,700

804 BLOOMINGDALE DR.................DAVENPORT......... 12/3/2020..........$252,000

180 WHITE CLIFF BLVD.................. AUBURNDALE........12/10/2020..........$270,000

922 ANNA PL.....................................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020...........$257,200

552 BURNHAM CIR........................ AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020..........$274,000

317 LUDISIA LOOP............................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020......... $260,000

3301 HURST RD............................. AUBURNDALE........12/10/2020..........$275,000

387 NOVA DR...................................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020......... $260,000

249 WALKERS POINT DR............... AUBURNDALE........12/10/2020.......... $318,500

548 CADIZ LOOP..............................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020......... $263,000

161 MAGNETA LOOP...................... AUBURNDALE.........12/11/2020......... $343,000

130 ARIA WAY...................................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020..........$263,300

380 PINE SHADOW LN.................. AUBURNDALE......... 12/4/2020......... $345,000

600 MEADOW BEND DR..................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020..........$265,400

550 LOBLOLLY PL.......................... AUBURNDALE.........12/17/2020.........$488,000

121 HAMLET LOOP............................DAVENPORT......... 12/9/2020..........$268,200

505 ADAMS VIEW LN..................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/8/2020.......... $515,000

1102 LYCASTE DR..............................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020..........$270,000

904 MAGNOLIA AVE..................... AUBURNDALE......... 12/4/2020......... $950,000

306 REGENCY RIDGE DR..................DAVENPORT........12/10/2020.......... $274,500

BARTOW

109 WALL AVE...................................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020...........$277,500

4540 TRANSPORT RD........................... BARTOW......... 12/4/2020........... $60,000

345 REGENCY RIDGE DR..................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020..........$282,000

2313 BOWERS RD................................... BARTOW.......... 12/1/2020............ $71,000

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 64 -

CATHY “K” KLUYTENAAR &

The K Team Real Estate Services

RELAX. YOU’RE HOME.

Polk County’s Favorite Real Estate Family

Cathy Kluytenaar Zac Kluytenaar

Visit our new website at yourkteam.com

Florrie Kluytenaar

863-604-6220 63

380 CITRUS POINTE DR...................DAVENPORT......... 12/9/2020.......... $286,100

157 JULLIARD BLVD...........................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020......... $260,000

505 SEATTLE SLEW DR.....................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020..........$296,900

426 OLD BRIDGE CIR........................DAVENPORT........12/10/2020..........$272,000

529 NICKEN GRV..............................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020......... $309,000

316 WESTSCOTT DR.........................DAVENPORT..........12/7/2020..........$282,000

3408 CORTLAND DR........................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020.......... $315,000

HAINES CITY

344 TOLDEDO RD............................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020.......... $318,000

224 22ND ST.................................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020........... $60,000

669 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

251 PATTERSON RD LOT J-16A......... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020............$75,000

673 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

2308 BURNWAY RD......................... HAINES CITY......... 12/8/2020............ $77,900

677 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

3368 CAMELOT DR......................... HAINES CITY........12/10/2020........... $94,500

681 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

2357 PAULETTE DR.......................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020.......... $149,300

685 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

120 MAPLE HILL DR.......................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2020.......... $175,000

689 MADISON DR............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

705 SUMMIT RIDGE DR................... HAINES CITY......... 12/2/2020...........$178,700

693 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

561 PINNACLE DR............................ HAINES CITY.........12/11/2020...........$219,900

695 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

656 TORTUGAS ST.......................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2020..........$236,800

699 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

7333 PLEASANT DR......................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020......... $238,000

703 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

1036 KOBUK ST............................... HAINES CITY......... 12/2/2020......... $240,900

707 MADISON DR.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

208 TANAGER ST............................. HAINES CITY.......... 12/1/2020......... $244,900

713 MADISON DR..............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020.......... $318,000

288 CITRUS POINTE DR.................. HAINES CITY......... 12/2/2020..........$246,300

743 ORANGE COSMOS BLVD...........DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020......... $320,000

263 TARPON BAY BLVD................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020.......... $252,900

485 SEATTLE SLEW DR.....................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020..........$324,300

519 TORTUGAS ST........................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2020..........$256,500

114 VIOLA DR....................................DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020......... $350,000

475 MONTICELLI DR........................ HAINES CITY......... 12/9/2020..........$259,000

465 SEATTLE SLEW DR.....................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020............$371,100

1113 ZION DR.................................... HAINES CITY..........12/7/2020..........$259,500

420 FLORIDA AVE.............................DAVENPORT......... 12/8/2020............ $57,500

2534 KOKOMO RD.......................... HAINES CITY.......... 12/1/2020......... $260,000

236 CAPTIVA DR...............................DAVENPORT......... 12/3/2020......... $245,000

1008 ZION DR.................................. HAINES CITY......... 12/9/2020.......... $260,100

556 VISTA VILLAGES BLVD...............DAVENPORT........12/10/2020..........$264,500

1036 ZION DR.................................. HAINES CITY......... 12/3/2020..........$276,600

565 VISTA VILLAGES BLVD...............DAVENPORT......... 12/9/2020...........$271,800

265 CITRUS POINTE DR................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020..........$282,500

560 VISTA VILLAGES BLVD...............DAVENPORT......... 12/2/2020..........$286,300

1951 SOUTHERN DUNES BLVD......... HAINES CITY.......... 12/1/2020......... $370,000

181 SCRUB JAY WAY..........................DAVENPORT......... 12/3/2020..........$329,000

2809 KOKOMO LOOP..................... HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020..........$375,000

115 BURFORD CIR.............................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020..........$342,500

1679 WATERVIEW LOOP.................. HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020......... $380,000

244 CAMBRIA AVE............................DAVENPORT......... 12/3/2020.......... $145,000

2922 SEQUOYAH DR........................ HAINES CITY......... 12/4/2020......... $435,000

1162 CHELSEA DR..............................DAVENPORT..........12/7/2020..........$168,000

LAKE WALES

724 BALLYSHANNON DR..................DAVENPORT..........12/7/2020..........$236,500

327 S MIAMI ST.................................LAKE WALES.........12/11/2020............$85,500

3737 MARBELLA WAY.......................DAVENPORT......... 12/4/2020..........$238,200

722 E OSCEOLA AVE.........................LAKE WALES......... 12/9/2020.......... $150,000 - CONTINUED ON PAGE 66 -

514 MCFEE DR...................................DAVENPORT.......... 12/1/2020..........$252,000

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64

2018

2019

Best of Best of

February 2021

Florida home sales on the rise?

The Andreasen Group Monthly Newsletter

Key factors as to why, and what does it mean for you Indeed, Florida house prices rose to a median price of $305,000 which is 15.6% higher than 12 months ago, and condo prices are up, too. The statewide median price for condotownhouses rose 15.9% to $221,000 Growing sales and a diminishing supply of Florida homes for sale is expected to push prices even further higher. Home inventory is 39.4% less than last October and condo inventory declined by 11.8%. New house listings have only climbed by 1.6% and only 3.4% for condos and townhouses.

WHAT IS DRIVING FLORIDA HOME SALES? The type of home being purchased is a factor, but most of the demand is from single family starter home sales. Mortgage rates are much lower than last year, down to record lows in the 2.8% area. Starter home sales suggests more millennials who are getting older, have some cash and are eager to buy.

The pandemic is no doubt a factor too, as new work at home workers and independent business owners seek to leave inner cities in the North (Manhattan, Boston, Washington, Chicago, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Minnesota, etc) to find single detached homes. They are looking for safety from COVID-19 and more room and nice weather to work in.

Omar Andreasen - CEO (407) 883.2989 omar@theandreasengroup.com

It makes sense that the stress of indoor confinement would drive so many to seek more spacious accommodations. This trend should drive Airbnb and condo rentals in Florida as

65

well. The pandemic itself, if it continues into the Spring, should boost Florida real estate sales right through 2021.

Florida homes prices are very reasonable in comparison with Long Island, Boston, Washington, Hartford, and other pricey northeast cities. Buyers are receiving tremendous value for their purchase.

Growing demographic buyer changes, low mortgage rates, an improving Florida economy, along with the return of tourists, air flights, hotels, ocean cruises, beach activity, rentals, and restaurant and entertainment businesses should make Florida boom in 2021.

IS IT A FLORIDA HOME PRICE BUBBLE? If you’re considering buying a Florida house or condo, you will be paying considerably more. Is it a price bubble? Likely not, with the pandemic pushing more buyers into the Florida real estate market where they can buy a roomy home for a great price.

With the Presidential election now decided, this will likely serve to encourage speculation as well. If stimulus funds are delivered in February, along with the delivery of COVID-19 vaccinations, it’s easy to see huge inflation in home prices. The forecast for the next three months is stronger than normal, leading into a 6-month growth period of unusual intensity.

This should encourage buyers to pay more and sellers to demand more for their hard-to-find houses.

939 OXFORD WAY............................LAKE WALES......... 12/3/2020.......... $214,900

1905 SANDFORD RD........................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020.......... $165,000

1180 YARNELL AVE............................LAKE WALES......... 12/2/2020.......... $215,000

2625 JUNGLE ST.................................. LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020.......... $165,000

1159 LAKESHORE BLVD.....................LAKE WALES.......... 12/1/2020..........$299,900

2436 LAKEVIEW ST............................. LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020.......... $175,000

209 LAKE BLVD.................................LAKE WALES..........12/7/2020............ $87,500

1448 MORGANWOOD DR.................. LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020..........$188,400

3012 TROON LN................................LAKE WALES........12/10/2020...........$212,900

1911 E MAIN ST..................................... LAKELAND......... 12/5/2020.......... $189,900

4258 SAM KEEN RD..........................LAKE WALES......... 12/3/2020............$55,000

1627 HOLLY RD................................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020..........$225,000

46 PALOMINO PATH.........................LAKE WALES......... 12/8/2020........... $60,000

809 VISTABULA ST............................. LAKELAND.........12/11/2020..........$265,000

73 ROAN RD......................................LAKE WALES......... 12/2/2020........... $60,000

2940 HWY 92..................................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020......... $899,000

173 APPALOOSA TRL........................LAKE WALES......... 12/4/2020........... $63,000

1920 EDGEWOOD DR G4................... LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020........... $95,000

16 ROSALIE OAKS BLVD....................LAKE WALES......... 12/4/2020.............$77,500

528 CAROLE ST.................................. LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020............ $97,500

428 WATERWAY DR..........................LAKE WALES.......... 12/1/2020........... $84,000

590 GRASSLANDS VILLAGE CIR......... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020........... $197,500

3649 RIDGE LAKE DR.......................LAKE WALES.........12/11/2020..........$100,000

1617 OSBAN ST.................................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020........... $217,500

8701 OAK RIDGE DR.........................LAKE WALES.......... 12/1/2020......... $300,000

705 PARK ST....................................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020.......... $219,000

4327 CHAMBERS ST.........................LAKE WALES......... 12/9/2020......... $320,000

523 W PARK ST................................... LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020.......... $257,000

LAKELAND

769 MARTINIQUE CIR......................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020..........$270,000

4945 US HIGHWAY 92........................ LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020........... $90,000

1600 W LAKE PARKER DR APT B27..... LAKELAND.........12/11/2020............$75,000

550 SADDLE BAG LN........................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020............$99,900

1033 W 13TH ST................................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020........... $131,500

1930 BLUE LAKE DR............................ LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020.......... $105,000

1134 CRESTVIEW AVE......................... LAKELAND........12/10/2020.......... $155,000

1044 PINEVIEW PL.............................. LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020..........$108,000

222 CARPENTERS WAY #75................. LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020..........$164,000

1101 SKYVIEW BLVD............................ LAKELAND..........12/7/2020.......... $125,000

2600 TIMBERCREEK LOOP................ LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020.......... $183,500

417 HAMPTON AVE............................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020...........$157,000

5389 RIVER ROCK RD......................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020.......... $135,000

1516 CARIOCA DR............................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020..........$160,000

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- CONTINUED ON PAGE 68 -

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66 havenmagazines.com

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67

1016 BRENTWOOD LN........................ LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020..........$140,000

3715 COVINGTON LN.......................... LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020.......... $255,200

7729 CLOUSER CT.............................. LAKELAND.........12/11/2020..........$194,000

1910 HARVEST LANDING CIR.............. LAKELAND..........12/7/2020.......... $263,700

6163 RES CIR....................................... LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020........... $197,900

1611 LEHALL SQ................................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020.......... $291,000

6416 CHIPPENDALE RD...................... LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020......... $208,500

4936 MUSKET DR............................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020.......... $316,000

573 HUNTERS RUN BLVD................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020..........$275,000

2276 MALACHITE............................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020..........$342,500

1816 SHERWOOD LAKES BLVD........... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020......... $360,000

6447 SEDGEFORD DR........................ LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020.......... $179,000

9618 MOORE RD................................. LAKELAND..........12/7/2020......... $385,000

1768 BIRCHWOOD LOOP................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020.......... $199,900

1760 LAUREL GLEN PL........................ LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020......... $465,000

6785 CABERNET XING........................ LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020......... $204,000

5214 TURTLE DOVE TRL..................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020............$55,000

3863 HORIZON VIEW LOOP............... LAKELAND........12/10/2020.......... $218,000

1847 CREEKS VISTA BLVD................... LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020............$55,500

5585 ARLINGTON RIVER DR............... LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020.......... $222,500

1858 CREEKS VISTA BLVD................... LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020............$55,500

5852 ARLINGTON RIVER DR............... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020...........$237,700

1940 HARVEST LANDING CIR............. LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020............$58,300

3929 SPRUCE CREEK DR.................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020...........$251,500

3416 DOREEN CT................................ LAKELAND..........12/7/2020........... $60,000

3621 BARRED OWL RD........................ LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020......... $286,900

7937 INDIAN HEIGHTS DR.................. LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020........... $135,100

4105 PINETREE LN S............................ LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020......... $300,000

3861 PIONEER TRAILS ST.................... LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020.......... $139,900

1525 CHERRY LN................................. LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020......... $390,000

3566 HIGHLAND FAIRWAYS BLVD...... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020..........$168,000

5036 SIESTA PL................................... LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020........... $98,000

7343 BRIARBAY LOOP........................ LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020......... $206,000

5486 BEVERLY RISE BLVD................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020......... $205,000

8720 PEBBLEBROOKE WAY................ LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020.......... $237,900

5036 SIESTA PL................................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020..........$222,000

1973 HARVEST LANDING CIR............. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020..........$238,300

5042 SIESTA PL................................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020..........$222,000

3335 MAHOGANY POINTE LOOP....... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020......... $245,000

5048 SIESTA PL................................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020..........$222,000

8150 WESTMONT TERRACE DR......... LAKELAND..........12/7/2020.......... $247,000

5827 CHRISTIANSEN CT..................... LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020.......... $272,500

1914 HARVEST LANDING CIR.............. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020......... $250,400

6099 HIGHLANDS GRACE BLVD........ LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020...........$293,100

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

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

Wear your mask wherever you go.

Wash your hands for 20 seconds often throughout the day.

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

It’s all for one and 5 for all.

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

68

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

Polk County’s Official Tourism Marketing Organization

5865 VALENTINO WAY....................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020......... $303,400

1017 TALON LN.............................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020............$76,000

5834 CHRISTIANSEN CT..................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020..........$305,700

116 SHELTON ST...........................WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020........... $83,000

5871 VALENTINO WAY........................ LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020.......... $427,000

101 US HIGHWAY 17......................WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020...........$100,100

6526 CREWS VUE LOOP..................... LAKELAND.........12/11/2020........... $161,200

706 AVENUE K.............................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020............$111,000

680 LAKE CAROLYN CIR.................... LAKELAND......... 12/2/2020..........$164,000

516 35TH ST.................................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020........... $115,000

451 LAKE CAROLYN CIR...................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020.......... $175,000

208 E LAKE HOWARD DR............WINTER HAVEN.........12/11/2020...........$116,000

5102 MARTINIQUE DR........................ LAKELAND......... 12/9/2020..........$180,000

1624 SW ROSELAWN...................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020.......... $125,000

4616 DILLWYN DR.............................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020......... $200,000

2304 ISLE ROYAL CT....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $132,000

4609 DEVON AVE............................... LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020......... $220,000

2201 W CENTRAL AVE..................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $149,500

6230 CHRISTINA GROVES CIR........... LAKELAND.........12/11/2020......... $220,000

345 SANDPINE TRL......................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $150,000

624 EL CAMINO REAL......................... LAKELAND..........12/7/2020..........$233,000

740 2ND ST..................................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020.......... $172,000

5470 OAKFORD DR............................ LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020..........$234,900

108 CENTER ST............................WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020.......... $189,000

3646 DOVETAIL LN............................. LAKELAND..........12/7/2020..........$235,000

1901 MANOR CIR.........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020..........$190,000

4804 FOXRUN.................................... LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020..........$243,500

1818 WALLACE MANOR LN..........WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020...........$197,800

1995 INDIAN TRAILS CT...................... LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020......... $290,000

252 BLACK SKIMMER LN..............WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020......... $206,600

920 BROOKWOOD DR....................... LAKELAND.........12/11/2020......... $305,000

957 SUNRISE CT..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020......... $208,900

918 CHRISTINA CHASE DR................. LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020.......... $313,600

546 EAGLE LANDING BLVD.........WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $209,100

2660 HIGH RIDGE DR......................... LAKELAND......... 12/3/2020.......... $315,000

2806 SHUMARD AVE...................WINTER HAVEN.........12/11/2020..........$235,000

831 CHRISTINA CHASE DR.................. LAKELAND.........12/11/2020......... $330,000

4513 ASHFORD DR......................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020......... $280,000

912 BROOKWOOD DR........................ LAKELAND........12/10/2020......... $345,000

211 CENTRAL AVE.........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020......... $350,000

6875 HIGHLANDS CREEK RD............. LAKELAND..........12/7/2020.......... $347,000

151 KING RD.................................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020.........$400,000

5660 VINTAGE VIEW BLVD................. LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020..........$359,000

5577 HWY 542.............................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020......... $605,000

5540 VINTAGE VIEW BLVD................. LAKELAND.......... 12/1/2020......... $370,000

6609 WESTCHESTER DR.............WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020........... $50,000

6319 OAK SQ...................................... LAKELAND......... 12/8/2020......... $390,000

1213 NW 8TH ST...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020........... $60,000

1810 STELLA CT.................................. LAKELAND.........12/11/2020.........$400,000

2203 STARBOARD.......................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020.......... $124,000

6857 CRESCENT OAKS CIR................. LAKELAND......... 12/4/2020......... $429,000

1506 MEADOWVIEW...................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020.......... $170,000

1010 HIGHLAND DR............................ LAKELAND..........12/7/2020.......... $510,000

5854 WINDRIDGE DR..................WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020..........$190,000

224 MARVELINE DR............................ LAKELAND..........12/7/2020.......... $179,000

1647 AMBAR CT...........................WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020.......... $212,000

WINTER HAVEN

3443 JULIUS ESTATES BLVD........WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $214,900

505 AVENUE A.............................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020........... $65,000

2122 MIRASOL DR........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/9/2020......... $220,000

421 SW 7TH ST.............................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020............$75,000

3164 COUNTRY CLUB CIR...........WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020..........$239,000

427 SW 7TH ST.............................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020............$75,000

3208 ROYAL TERN DR.................WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020.......... $241,000

1004 TALON LN...........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020............$76,000

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 70 -

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2918 EAGLE NEST VIEW DR.........WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020..........$242,500

2915 TRADITIONS BLVD..............WINTER HAVEN........12/22/2020.......... $179,000

118 JACE WAY...............................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020..........$249,500

829 REFLECTIONS LOOP.............WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020.......... $185,000

169 ANDREAS ST.........................WINTER HAVEN.........12/11/2020..........$263,900

382 TROON CT............................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020..........$190,000

319 SUNFISH DR..........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020......... $289,000

255 SANTA ROSA DR...................WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020......... $200,000

1076 IDYLWILD DR.......................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020......... $290,000

446 SANDESTIN DR.....................WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020.......... $210,000

3089 BUCKEYE POINTE DR.........WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020..........$292,000

5304 NICKLAUS DR.....................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020......... $220,000

1220 LAKE BUCKEYE DR..............WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020..........$323,800

712 REFLECTIONS DR...................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020..........$224,900

3500 LAKE ALFRED RD................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020......... $425,000

2398 SALZBURG LOOP................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020..........$226,000

603 NW 6TH ST...........................WINTER HAVEN.........12/11/2020......... $425,000

3826 BEDFORD AVE....................WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020.......... $229,500

6403 OAK GROVE DR..................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020........... $60,000

4651 MANDOLIN LOOP...............WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020..........$234,900

4925 CYPRESS GARDENS RD LOT 98.WINTER HAVEN.. 12/8/2020........... $69,000

827 REFLECTIONS LOOP.............WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020..........$239,900

9705 LAKE BESS RD # 684...........WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020........... $80,000

1013 SAWGRASS DR.....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/9/2020......... $240,600

104 WARBLER LN.........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020........... $99,000

4105 MARTINDALE LOOP............WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020......... $242,000

9705 LAKE BESS RD #875............WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020...........$123,500

416 ALACHUA DR........................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020......... $245,000

609 SWEET BAY CIR....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020........... $131,000

345 STERLING DR........................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020.......... $279,500

4340 EMERALD PALMS BLVD......WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $135,000

4302 MANDOLIN BLVD...............WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020......... $280,000

4468 EMERALD PALMS LN..........WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020.......... $135,000

1076 SAWGRASS DR....................WINTER HAVEN........12/10/2020.......... $287,900

101 LAUREL COVE WAY................WINTER HAVEN.......... 12/1/2020.......... $145,500

141 GREENFIELD RD.....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020.......... $297,000

999 LANCASTER RD....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020.......... $150,000

454 LAKE DAISY DR.....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/3/2020.......... $387,600

3368 LIVINGSTON WAY...............WINTER HAVEN......... 12/2/2020.......... $165,000

1104 INTERLOCHEN BLVD............WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020......... $395,000

419 GREENFIELD RD....................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/8/2020.......... $165,000

925 HART LAKE CT......................WINTER HAVEN......... 12/4/2020...........$395,100

123 OLD SPANISH WAY................WINTER HAVEN..........12/7/2020........... $170,100

GROWLERS TO GO!

TRY SOMETHING NEW

Winter Haven’s Craft Beer Destination

40 Self Pour Taps

Pour as much or as little as you would like Mon Closed

Tues - Thurs 4pm-10pm

Fri 4pm-11pm

Sat Noon-11pm

Sun Noon-7pm

LIVE MUSIC on the weekends & growlers (32oz or 64oz) still available during business hours.

For Details and Events, Check Us Out at uniontaproom 245 W Central Ave Suite 102, Winter Haven // (863) 268-4921 // uniontaproomwh.com havenmagazines.com

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Executive Suites Now Available

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

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