The Lakelander May June 2016

MAY - JUNE 2016

THE TONY DELGADO INTERVIEW / OPEN HEARTS AND OPEN HOMES THE SOUTHGATE ARCH / BREAKFAST IN BED / NEIGHBORHOOD ROOTS

PLACING YOU

AT THE HEART

OF ALL WE DO

2

THE LAKELANDER

Expert Physicians.

Advanced Treatments.

At Lakeland Regional Health, the experienced physicians of our

Heart Center

have pioneered cardiac care for more than three decades.

With experience like that, it’s no wonder their expertise continues to bring you groundbreaking, less-invasive procedures that aren’t available anywhere else in Polk County.

To learn more about our Heart Center and its expert physicians, visit the website below.

myLRH.org/HeartCenter

Maverick collection

Hendrix collection

Pinehurst collection

CREATE A

LOOK that’s all your own!

R

Lakeland-Lake Gibson 6625 US 98 North (863) 858-3866 Lake Wales 126 Hwy. 60 W. (863) 676-6515

Lakeland Combee 1225 N. Combee Rd. (863) 665-3111

Eleven Polk County locations to serve you

Lakeland North 1409 N. Florida Ave. (863) 682-8107

Frostproof Ft. Meade 500 N. Scenic Hwy. 1401 Hwy. 17 N. (863) 635-2645 (863) 285-9757

Lakeland Christina 6100 S. Florida Ave. (863) 646-2921

Auburndale 521 Hughes Rd. (863) 967-6602

Eagle Lake 1515 Hwy. 17 S. (863) 294-7749

Haines City 35495 Hwy. 27 (863) 422-3144 1350 N. Broadway (US 98) Bartow (863) 533-1611

WITH CHIROPRACTIC CARE

ARE CHRONIC HEADACHES RUINING YOUR DAY? Tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches are exceedingly common and can be painful to the point of debilitation.

The providers at Lakeland Spine Center will use spinal manipulation to alleviate your headache pain without medication, and advise you on ways you can adjust your life to avoid headache triggers in the future.

JOIN THE PATHWAY TO WELLNESS AT LAKELAND SPINE CENTER THROUGH CHIROPRACTIC CARE.

3242 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE LAKELAND, FL 33803 Located just north of Walmart on South Florida Avenue

Summer! at True MD with SmartLipo & CoolSculpting !

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JUNE 19 TH IS FATHER’S DAY & DADS LOVE TRUE MD TOO! Buy a $100 True MD Giftcard and get $25 BONUS BUCKS to spend on yourself!

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Coupons and special offers cannot be combined. Copyright 2016, True MD. All rights reserved.

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THE LAKELANDER

June 28th - July 2nd

2016 Miss Florida Preliminary

Miss Florida Preliminary

Tuesday, June 28, 2016 – 7:30 p.m.

Adult: $35.00 | Youth (2-12): $15.00

Wednesday, June 29, 2016 – 7:30 p.m Adult: $35.00 | Youth (2-12): $15.00

Miss Florida Preliminary

Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen Preliminary

Thursday, June 30, 2016 – 7:30 p.m.

Adult: $35.00 | Youth (2-12): $15.00

Friday, July 1, 2016 – Preliminary # 1 – 4:00 p.m.

Preliminary # 2 – 8:00 p.m.

Adult: $40.00 | Youth (2-12): $20.00 Note: Same tickets is good for both events.

Finals – Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen Pageant Saturday, July 2, 2016 - 4:00 p.m.

Finals – Miss Florida Pageant Saturday, July 2, 2016 – 8:00 p.m.

Adult: $85.00 Youth (2-12): $40.00 Note: Same tickets is good for both events.

Tickets can be purchased: 1. www.thelakelandcenter.com 2. 24/7 Phone: 888-397-0100

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL TALENT Siobhan Gale- Miss Heart of Florida 2016 Courtney Jones- Miss Largo 2016

GET INVOLVED - MISSFLORIDA.ORG

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THE LAKELANDER

SIOBHAN GALE MISS HEART OF FLORIDA 2016 >>>

THE LAKELANDER

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alley nights

alley nights

alley nig

alley nights

THE LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH

2016 SCHEDULE MAY 27

JUNE 24

JULY 29

AUGUST 26

THIS MONTH

Revolution

MAY 27

T H E WA L L E R C E N T E R

PINK PIANO

Craft Beer and Wine Tasting

Live Music

Food Truck and Pop Lion Coffee

Happy Hour Specials

Live Music

ghts

alley nights

Special Artist Exhibit Street Vendors

DIXIELAND RELICS A Cow Named Moo

1026 S O F LO G A L L E R Y & SHOPS Artists Pat Leggett and Kate Hall will be honored at a reception in their honor, free, open to the public.

Food Coffee Music Flea Market

N I N E T E E N 61 Wine Tasting

TUDOR TOWERS Space is limited!

SEPTEMBER 30

OCTOBER 28

T H E V I L L AG E Art Centric- open 6-9 Ink Shirts- T-shirt Demonstration Concord Coffee serving a special coffee blend for Last Friday’s Platform Art- Open Mic Night from 6-7:30 in the Platform Art Forum. Organized by a group of Harrison student poets A Kind Place- Open! Just for you!

NOVEMBER 25

DECEMBER 30

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THE LAKELANDER

THE LAKELANDER

17

TABLE OF CONTENTS

34 MAY - JUNE 2016

DEPARTMENTS 26 NOTE FROM THE EDITORS 28 EDITORIAL BIOS 32 PHOTOGRAPHER BIOS 88 HEALTH 122 OPENINGS 124 EVENTS 128 EDUCATION 130 HISTORY

ON THE COVER Summer is upon us! Cure the summertime blues with classic American influences. Mix the season’s color palette and prints, and highlight some familiar looks while turning heads with some not-so-familiar fabrications.

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THE LAKELANDER

CELE B RATE

at the Club at Eaglebrooke

LAKELAND’S #1 EVENT VENUE

Th e Club at Eag le brooke , conve nie ntl y l ocated in south La kela nd, of fers a selection of both charming and grand ba n quet ro o ms for any spe cial occasion. From our private, intim ate dining room for 20 guests to our exquisite b allro o m fo r 300, we h ave e l e gant spaces to m a ke your event unforgetta ble. We’re the premier venue for weddi n g s , b a nq u e ts, par tie s and more . P lea se ca ll our Specia l Events Director for a consultat ion and tour.

JENNIFER WHITE • SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR • 863-701-0101 EXT. 23 • JENNIFER@EAGLEBROOKE.COM • EAGLEBROOKE.COM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

46

STYLE 34 SUMMERTIME BLUES Denim: the new summer wardrobe staple

PHILANTHROPY 46 OPEN HEARTS AND OPEN HOMES Adoption is changing lives in Lakeland 20

THE LAKELANDER

We don’t just help build long-term wealth.

We form long-lasting relationships.

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THE CORE TEAM: Chuck Foss • Nathan Dunham • Andrew Foss • Matte Diaz • Paul Weaver • Angela Newell

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

56

SHELTER 56 NEIGHBORHOOD ROOTS Cultivating plants creates a love of place

PEOPLE 66 THE TONY DELGADO INTERVIEW Newly appointed Lakeland City Manager Tony Delgado tells us about being at the helm

SPECIAL FEATURE 78 SECRET SUPPER CLUB: SOUTHERN SUPPER A collision of history, southern hospitality and the modern age

TASTE 90 BREAKFAST IN BED Waking up to edible art

100 SWEET SUMMER FLAVORS A toast to jam

CULTURE 110 THE SOUTHGATE ARCH Bridging Lakeland’s past and future

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THE LAKELANDER

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www.lanierupshaw.com

MOVE UP After 75 years of continuing improvement and success, we are increasing momentum and reaching new heights for our company—and more importantly, our clients.

How do we do it? We explore challenges, embrace the upside of risk, and elevate results.

Discover the upside of your risk and turn problems into possibilities.

PUBLISHER Curt Patterson ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS Jason Jacobs, Brandon Patterson

Polk County’s low cost Spay & Neuter solution!

Advertising ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Curt Patterson; 863.409.2449 ADVERTISING SALES Jason Jacobs; 863.606.8785 ADVERTISING SALES Brandon Patterson; 863.409.2447 ADVERTISING SALES Nathan Patterson; 863.409.0267 Editorial EDITOR, DIRECTOR OF CONTENT Alice V. Koehler EDITOR, DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Tina Sargeant STAFF EDITOR

Kristin Crosby GUEST EDITOR Sarah Sebastian GUEST EDITOR

Jarman Peacock CULTURE EDITOR Abby Jarvis PEOPLE EDITOR Adam Spafford PHILANTHROPY EDITOR Tara Campbell SHELTER EDITOR Christian Lee STYLE EDITOR Abdiel Gonzalez TASTE EDITOR Jenn Smurr COPY EDITOR Laura Burke OFFICE MANAGER Deb Patterson ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Kristin Crosby Design ART DIRECTOR Philip Pietri DESIGNER Emily Vila Photography CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

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THE LAKELANDER

Circulation CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Jason Jacobs

General Counsel

Ted W. Weeks IV

Published by Patterson Jacobs Publishing, LLC The Lakelander is published bimonthly by Patterson Jacobs Publishing, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of The Lakelander is prohibited. The Lakelander is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions.

Contact Patterson Jacobs Publishing, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802 863.701.2707 www.thelakelander.com Customer Service: 863.701.2707 Subscription Help: jason@pattersonpublishing.com “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him,

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EDITORIAL

NOTE FROM THE EDITORS Thorpe AC Testimonial: Jan and Hugh Coachman My husband and I are pleased to highly endorse Thorpe Heating & Cooling, Inc. after many years of enjoying their services for our home. Everyone at Thorpe, from the Owner, Chuck Thorpe, to the Customer Service Department, to the Sales and Service Department and Technicians, are all top-notch people of integrity and honesty.

In all the years we have been dealing with Thorpe, we have never considered calling another company. I have been particularly impressed with the well-trained, qualified service techs that have come to perform maintenance or repairs. They are always courteous and respectful and go about doing the task efficiently. Even on a rental house that we own with an older a/c unit, they maintain and service it without complaint or a “pitch” to upcharge for extras. Thank you, Thorpe Heating & Cooling for the long-term relationship and for your excellent service!

Jan and Hugh Coachman

Alice Koehler

Tina Sargeant

Summer has arrived, Lakeland.

Every year, we hope that spring will linger just a little longer. We’re never quite ready for summer’s heat and humidity. Try as we might to fight it, summer is upon us.

This year, don’t fight it. Own it, and celebrate it! We challenge you to lean into it.

Enjoy the bright sunny days, the summer rainstorms, and crazy summer schedules.

Don some denim, get out in your yard, and tend to something green and alive. Play! Find delight in simple pleasures, like breakfast in bed.

This summer, we are inspired by these simple pleasures and the green growth of nature’s becoming. We evolve and discover newness, a fresh, new perspective.

The great poet, Khalil Gibran wrote in Song of the Flower: I am a kind word uttered and repeated By the voice of Nature; I am a star fallen from the Blue tent upon the green carpet.

I am the daughter of the elements With whom Winter conceived; To whom Spring gave birth; I was Reared in the lap of Summer and I Slept in the bed of Autumn.

What will summer bring to you?

Just as the flowers are reared in summer, we hope that you, too, will find life and rejuvenation this summer.

Serving All of Lakeland for 34 Years www.thorpeac.com 863-858-2577 26

THE LAKELANDER

With warmth, Alice and Tina

Build Upon

YOUR SUCCESS HER ITAGE LAKES

22 Now is the time to treat yourself to this luxurious, country

v Gated 24-hour manned entry

club lifestyle that can be found only at Heritage Lakes.

v Water & preserve views available

This is the last chance to build the home of your dreams in Lakeland’s most prestigious community.

v Choose one of our Premier Builders v Country club lifestyle v Entrances & grounds meticulously maintained

MON-FRI 9-5 | SAT 10-5 & SUN 12-5 | 1301 GRASSLANDS BLVD., STE. 100, LAKELAND | 863.647.1100 PAT JONES 863.581.4699 | DANI MILLER 863.255.2276 | GRASSLANDSHOMES.COM THE LAKELANDER

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EDITORIAL BIOS ALICE V. KOEHLER

EDITOR, DIRECTOR OF CONTENT Alice Koehler is a longtime Lakeland resident, graduate of Florida Southern College, returned Peace Corps volunteer, mother, and lifelong learner. In 2013, she graduated from Leadership Lakeland Class 30. In 2014, she added MBA to the end of her name. Today, Alice is currently a senior market manager for the American Cancer Society where she gets to see more birthdays celebrated every year by supporting and implementing efforts that help our neighbors get well and stay well, find cures, and fight back. In her free time, she enjoys adventure seeking, memory making, joy giving, bargain hunting, community building, mind bending, knowledge acquiring, and soul filling.

KRISTIN CROSBY ASSISTANT EDITOR Originally from the North, Kristin Crosby first made her way to Lakeland to study at Southeastern University where she graduated with a music degree.

Through an array of career experiences, including the role of commuter coordinator at SEU and a short-lived stint as a yoga instructor, a passion for writing emerged. Kristin’s publication and editorial work includes grant writing for the nonprofit organization LifeNet and various positions held at Relevant Media Group. To see more of Kristin’s work, go to kristincrosby.com and vitalmagazine.com where she is a frequent contributor.

ADAM SPAFFORD PEOPLE EDITOR

Adam Spafford came to Lakeland in 1999 to attend Florida Southern College and, except for a 20-month graduate school stint in Massachusetts, has been here since. When he’s not writing page-turners for The Lakelander, he trades stock and index options.

CHRISTIAN LEE SHELTER EDITOR

Lakeland’s Premier COFFEE HOUSE & CASUAL EATERY

Christian Lee is a Mississippi native who moved to Lakeland in 1992. After spending several years raising her family, she re-entered the design and decorating industry in 2004. Today, she works with contractors and clients to remodel homes and commercial properties. Christian is passionate about spaces that have soul, and she loves to find ways to make that soul come to life. She is skilled at interior decorating, repurposing antique and vintage furniture, and has designed a line of clothing for the home as well. In her spare time, Christian runs marathons and volunteers on the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Leadership Council. She is also a 20-year member of the Junior League of Greater Lakeland. For more of Christian’s works and services, go to christianleedesign.com. Follow her on Instagram at Christianleedesigns.

JENN SMURR TASTE EDITOR

Jenn is a Florida native and a proud Lakelander. She is a lover of people and all things food (especially dark chocolate), an excursionist, and the owner of Born & Bread Bakehouse. For the last four years, Jenn has traveled the world working full time as a fashion model. Taking advantage of the gift of travel, she spent her free time exploring the local cuisine. Her affinity for bread came to a tipping point when she visited a standing-room-only cafe in Paris. It was there that she first tried “life-changing fresh bread and local butter.” She has since traded a life in fashion for one in food.

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THE LAKELANDER

Denture Problems? Partial Worn Out? END Denture Problems NOW with our $500 denture / partial Trade In Program!

As a new patient at Mid Town dental, you'll qualify for our Denture/Partial Trade-In Program!, That's right, you can trade in your old for new at Midtown Dental! Here's how it works: Call now and make your no obligation appointment for your free denture or partial consultation. Then, just bring in your old denture or partial to your appointment. And, just for bringing in your old one, we'll give you a $500 credit towards Dental Implants.

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SAME DAY EMERGENCIES • WE TAKE YOUR INSURANCE • 0% INTEREST FINANCING • DENTAL SAVINGS PLAN • VETERANS & MILITARY DISCOUNTS FOR A FEE ADVERTISED ‘MINIMUM FEE ONLY’ OR FOR FEE SERVICE: THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

THE LAKELANDER

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EDITORIAL BIOS ABDIEL GONZALEZ STYLE EDITOR

From a young age, Abdiel Gonzalez was inspired by design and art, and influenced by the colorful culture of his native Hawaii. After moving to Florida in his teens, Abdiel formed an award-winning dance company, No Confusion, for which he received national recognition. His love of fashion developed while earning a bachelor’s in business administration at Florida Southern College. He has managed multimillion-dollar retail establishments, designed stage costumes, and styled high-profile photo shoots. Currently, Abdiel runs Style Instinct by Abdiel, a styling and image consulting business. As a longtime Lakelander, Abdiel gives back by volunteering his talent to local production companies and teaches weekly dance classes at studios here in Lakeland.

TARA CAMPBELL

PHILANTHROPY EDITOR

CARPET CLEANING AND WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION

Tara Campbell is a longtime Lakelander with a passion for serving others.

A graduate of Florida Southern College, she is currently the team and outreach director for Access Church. In the past she has worked as the teen development director for the YMCA of Central Florida, the outreach teacher at the Polk Museum of Art, and a classroom leader at Parker Street Ministries.

Believing firmly that only boring people get bored, Tara spends her free time mentoring middle-school girls in the Parker Street Neighborhood, teaching art lessons, and serving the community through several civic organizations, as well as enjoying all of the friends and culture that Lakeland has to offer.

ABBY JARVIS

CULTURE EDITOR Abby Jarvis is a writing buff with a deep appreciation for the history behind modern cultures and habits. She attended Florida Southern College and, while enrolled there, fell in love with Lakeland’s ability to blend its history with its contemporary identity. Today, Abby works in marketing and outreach at Qgiv, a Lakeland tech company, and spends her spare time writing fairy tales and poetry, which can be found strewn haphazardly through her apartment.

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THE LAKELANDER

GUEST EDITOR

Jarman Peacock’s love for plants began in Lakeland, his hometown since the age of two. After graduating from the University of Florida in Gainesville, he lived and worked for many years as a landscape architect in Miami Beach. Shortly after returning to Lakeland in 2002, he opened the Green House Garden Store. When he’s not traveling to remote corners of Florida hunting plants for clients, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Sara; his two little girls, Celeste and Arielle; and his yellow lab, Darwin.

SARAH SEBASTIAN GUEST EDITOR

Sarah Sebastian has lived in Lakeland most of her life. She earned her English degree at Florida State University. She can’t seem to decide where she’d like to live, having jumped around between Lakeland, Atlanta, Tallahassee, and Norway. After eight years of teaching, she changed careers and now spends her days as the product content manager for Qgiv, a Lakeland tech company. Her spare time is devoted to her greatest loves: animals, writing, and reading old novels about British people eating dinner (at least that’s how her literary interests were once described).

TRUSTWORTHY FOR 100 YEARS

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LIFE

•

HOME

•

CAR

•

BUSINESS THE LAKELANDER

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PHOTOGRAPHER BIOS LET THE GAMES BEGIN...

TINA SARGEANT

EDITOR, DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Tina Sargeant has been professionally capturing the moments, events, and people of our region for the last seven years and photographing for The Lakelander since issue one. Tina’s photography is driven by the ability to suspend time and create emotion, and her work embodies a passion for anthropology – people, culture, and stories. sargeantstudios.com

SUMMER CAMP MARTIAL ARTS

PHILIP PIETRI Pietri Photography is run by husband and wife duo Philip and Jessica Pietri. Both photographers are established creative professionals from the Tampa Bay area who inject a clean, modernist aesthetic into their work. pietriphotography.com

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THE LAKELANDER

TIFFANI JONES Growing up, Tiffani Jones could never get lost in the wonder of a storybook. Then one day she realized she could let her mind imagine a wondrous story through imagery. Photography gives Tiffani a tangible voice with her audience. After a wonderful 15-year nursing career, she left the art of nursing for the art of creating. She’s a life-long Lakelander where she raises three energetic children with her husband. iamtiffanijones.com

863-255-4672 - Lakeland

STYLE

SUMMERTIME BLUES DENIM: THE NEW SUMMER WARDROBE STAPLE

Story, styling, and men’s grooming by Abdiel Gonzalez Photography by Philip Pietri Women’s hair and makeup by Yolanda Floyd at Salon Salvatore Models: Kate D. and Tyler C. of Modern Muse

This year, summer fashion takes a stylish seaside vacation. Come along and enjoy classic American influences as the season’s color palette and prints take the lead, highlighting some familiar looks and turning heads with some not-so-familiar fabrications.

Start curating your summer wardrobe now, as the summertime heat is setting in. Go for a classic regatta stripe in place of the typical horizontal motif. Taking its cue from the classic Italian boat racing culture, this vertical stripe pattern will not only modernize your summer look and visually elongate your body, but will pair perfectly with the season’s most popular fabric: denim.

Not seen as the typical summer fabric, denim and chambray have taken over this season as the new summer neutral. Deep indigos and faded hues of blue serve as the perfect backdrop to standard seasonal prints. The key to making it through a 90-degree summer day sweat-free in jeans or a chambray Oxford is to pick breathable denim that is 100 percent cotton; synthetic stretch fabrics trap heat and moisture.

After creating a timeless summer look with this season’s wardrobe staples, dig into your clothing archives and splash a pop of bright summer color by layering basics and accessories. You’re sure to be the center of attention on your seaside vacation this year.

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THE LAKELANDER

ON HIM

ON HER

printed chambray button-up Urban Outfitters

tropical bathing suit Target

trunks Dillard’s

woven cap Urban Outfitters

THE LAKELANDER

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ON HER cover-up Urban Outfitters

ON HIM chambray shorts 5th and Hall sunglasses Urban Outfitters leather sandals Birkenstock beach bag TJ Maxx

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THE LAKELANDER

ON HER seersucker top Urban Outfitters

earrings Macy’s

printed palazzo pant Guess

necklace K. Scott for 5th and Hall

leather sandals TJ Maxx

ON HIM yellow polo Gap chambray shorts 5th and Hall sunglasses Urban Outfitters

THE LAKELANDER

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knitted polo Anthropologie pineapple shorts 5th and Hall bangles Urban Outfitters sunglasses Ray Ban earrings J.Crew

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THE LAKELANDER

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THE LAKELANDER

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striped button-up J.Crew white jeans 5th and Hall watch Breda

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THE LAKELANDER

dress Anthropologie clutch and sandals Target earrings TJ Maxx necklace Macy’s

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THE LAKELANDER

denim button-up Urban Outfitters white jeans 5th and Hall sandals Urban Outfitters

THE LAKELANDER

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THE LAKELANDER

PHILANTHROPY

OPEN HEARTS OPEN HOMES AND

ADOPTION IS CHANGING LIVES IN LAKELAND

written by TARA CAMPBELL photography By TIFFANI JONES

G

rowing up, everywhere we went, my family was the subject of intense looks and prolonged stares. In restaurants, the grocery store, and other public places, my five siblings and I would trail behind our parents like mismatched ducklings. My older sister and I, both dark haired and fair skinned, would often be carrying one of our light-haired youngest siblings on our hip, while our middle brothers, one Hispanic and one Italian, trailed behind us.

Waitresses, cashiers, and other strangers would curiously ask one of our parents, “Are these all your children?” to which we would reply, “Yes! And we’re all adopted!” We would then happily relay the story of our different histories to the interested party. Even as small children we were proud of our family — different, unconditional, and loving.

From the first moment of our adoptions, our parents imparted to us the stories of our untraditional histories. Two of my siblings were adopted at birth, brought home from the hospital by our adopted parents. The rest of us spent varying amounts of time in foster care before being adopted. I was in foster care for only seven weeks, but one of my siblings was

48

THE LAKELANDER

in foster care for years before becoming part of our family. As our family grew, each new child certainly brought a new set of challenges, but our ever-changing family dynamic taught my siblings the irreplaceable values of inclusion and acceptance. From an early age we understood that we could love people who looked and acted differently from us. We knew we were all loved and that everyone is deserving of love.

Every adoption story is different. My story is one of love and sacrifice. At 19, my biological mother had already been married and divorced once. She had another daughter who lived with our mom’s parent, and she was no longer in contact with my biological father. Knowing she couldn’t care for me the way she wanted to, my mother made a difficult decision and gave me up for adoption. I am thankful for that decision, because the love and acceptance that I learned and lived because of adoption is something that has shaped my life.

Our city is teeming with Lakelanders who are living stories similar to mine —stories full of love, acceptance, and healing for parents and children. Not all of them are stories as simple as mine; some are fraught with tears and suffering.

But all are seasoned with patience, acceptance, hard work, and love.

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NATHAN AND LORI PUHR “We had always talked about adoption. When we started trying to have kids, we figured, ‘Why put it off ? Why not do it now?’” Nathan Puhr explains to me. Over the phone I can hear Lenora, their eight-month-old daughter laughing and playing in the background.

Lenora and I have remarkably similar stories.

Young loving mothers who want more for their children than they can give them, coupled with adoptive parents ready to nurture and care for their new baby. The difference in our stories is that I’m hearing Lenora’s story from her adoptive parents’ side.

“We were so hesitant to say something, even to our families,” Lori says. “We got to be at the hospital the whole time Lenora’s mom was in labor, but we didn’t want to get anyone’s hopes up.”

You see, before being matched with Lenora, Nathan and Lori had been matched with another child, but the match fell through. Even though they were at the hospital for Lenora’s birth, and Lori was the first to hold her, the Puhrs didn’t let anyone know they were parents until the paperwork had been signed and they were on the way home with their new daughter.

“We called everyone on our way home from the hospital. I was so excited and overwhelmed, we got lost driving home,” Nathan laughs.

They’re incredibly thankful for the generosity and care that Lenora’s birth parents and family showed toward them during the sometimes complicated process. Lori maintains communication with Lenora’s birth mom and sends her regular updates.

Adoption stories don’t often work this openly; many are closed, mostly to protect children and families. The Puhrs’ story is one filled with grace and plenty of love from both sides.

The bond that Nathan and Lori have made with Lenora is undeniable.

“It’s amazing how well Lenora fits into our family,” Lori says. “Small things that look like Nathan or little moments that look like me.

It’s really amazing. Even our pets were excited when we brought her home. They were in the windows waiting for us. They knew something was happening. My parents are obsessed with her. I talk to people about adoption all the time. I want people to see what adoption can look like. [It’s not] always what you see in movies. I want people to see how beautiful growing your family through 50

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AS OF FEBRUARY 2016, THERE ARE STILL 388 CHILDREN IN POLK COUNTY HOPING TO BE ADOPTED.

THE METZ FAMILY

“I love getting to watch the boys turn into their own people without any preconceived ideas of who they should be because of who Chris and I are.”

Courtney and Chris Metz are parents to Coen and Cyrus, two precious little boys. The Metzs always wanted to adopt but hoped to have a child biologically first. After multiple miscarriages they decided to start the adoption process, and after two years they adopted Coen, a curly-headed, friendly little boy who loves playing with his friends, dancing, and eating. They were connected to Coen’s birth mom by a friend who knew they were trying to adopt.

“We always get comments on Coen’s hair. I’ve been asked if my husband is black,” Courtney says.

“Most people are trying to figure us out. People will say things like, ‘God bless you for giving them a life,’ like we made a huge sacrifice to save our boys. That’s a really quick way to make me feel uncomfortable and hear me talk about their birth moms and how they made all the hard choices. “ After adopting Coen, Courtney and Chris decided to adopt again.

And, after one failed match, they were matched with Cyrus, who turned six months old this May. “We are pretty much a normal family, except I didn’t give birth and our kids don’t look like us. These two boys are absolute gifts in our lives. I could never repay that gift in a million lifetimes with a million dollars.”

WHY ADOPTION? Last year, 99 children were adopted in Polk County, according to statistics from the Department of Children and Families website (dcf.state.fl.us). This year, as of the end of February, 22 children have been adopted. As of February 2016, there are still 388 children in Polk County hoping to be adopted.

The tangible and intangible benefits of adoption are endless for the adopted child, the biological parents, and the adoptive family. Initial adjustments can be challenging, but providing a stable, loving home and a feeling of permanence can change the course of a child’s life forever. At four years old, my brother was adopted. At the time, he had memories and habits he’d formed through his experiences living on the street with his biological mom. It took a lot of hard work, love, and dedication by my parents to help him to adjust to a stable life. Over time, though, his bad habits faded and he grew to be a well-adjusted, successful man.

Locally, the greatest need is homes for youth ages 12 to 15 as well as for sibling groups (heartlandforchildren.org). Lack of permanence in a child’s life can cause major problems for their future. Children who age out of foster care without permanent families have an increased risk

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of homelessness, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and struggle with employment. Less than two percent of them will earn a bachelor’s degree (childwelfare.gov).

There is something wonderful to be said for people who welcome others into their homes with open arms. Their lives are an example of love and acceptance to the people around them. When identifying potential adoptive families, agencies look for people who demonstrate patience, consistency, and flexibility to children.

The state of Florida also provides support for adopted children and families. There are classes and support groups available for children and families, and children adopted through foster care are eligible for scholarships, help with healthcare, and even assistance paying for things like childcare and extracurricular activities. In some cases, the state may also help with adoption related expenses.

You never know who you’re opening your home to when you chose to foster or adopt a child.

Famous talents like Steve Jobs, John Lennon, and Marilyn Monroe were all adopted. However, you can be assured that by providing a home for a child, adoptive families are giving them a place where they can feel loved and safe, and ultimately a real chance at a better future.

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C U LT I VAT I N G P L A N T S C R E AT E S A LOVE OF PLACE

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In a suburb of South Lakeland, twisting and turning around the man-made curves of what appears to be a typical street in a typical neighborhood, there is a small and unassuming sign pointing off to the right.

It’s hidden under the trees, directing the eye up what looks like an impossibly steep hill.

Blink and you miss it.

If you happen to see it one day, please respond to its beckoning and follow its mystery up and up and up the hill cloaked in green ferns and vines and elephant ears.

When you reach the top, you will find Audra and Grace.

Few are privileged enough to live here in this magical community, in these houses nestled under the trees that grow tall and strong in every yard and lawn.

Trees even spring up in the middle of the streets, as if that were just a normal thing for trees to do.

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Grace has lived here for more than 25 years, in the home her mother, Emily, passed down to her. Grace came to Lakeland from the chilly shores of Grosse Ile, Michigan, to attend Florida Southern College and ended up staying in the steamy subtropics of Lakeland after she graduated in 1958.

Audra, nearly 50 years later, also graduated from Florida Southern, in the year 2006. In the eyes of the grandfather oak trees that shade both of their homes, 50 years is just a blip, a few moments of a life that can span many hundreds, even thousands, of years. Yet, they all — Audra, Grace, and the oaks as well — have a deep love for their neighborhood.

Grace, who is retired, is an outdoor gardener, which is apparent from the moment her house comes into view.

Pinwheel jasmine, amaryllis, plum, salvia, and flowers from four corners of the globe fill every inch of her well-tended and happy garden.

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BEDS OF BIRD’S NEST FERNS AND NUN’S ORCHIDS RELAX IN THE SHADE WAITING F O R G R A C E T O S P R AY T H E M W I T H W AT E R .

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Courtyards and terraces showcase blue, purple, and green pots and tables displaying exotic plants such as medinillas and oncidiums. Beds of bird’s nest ferns and nun’s orchids relax in the shade waiting for Grace to spray them with water.

Audra, who is in the middle of her professional life, does not yet have the luxury of time to spend on an extensive outdoor landscape, so she chooses to focus her attention on living with plants inside her home. After spending time in Southeast Asia attending the University of Hong Kong, Audra’s home reflects her love of plants and also that of a clean and modern style.

Choosing the right plant, and then deciding

THE FIDDLE-LEAF FIG ADDS ELEGANCE AND LIFE TO ANY ROOM, PROVIDED THERE IS A W I N D O W N E A R B Y.

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where to place it, is the most important aspect of indoor gardening. Windows and light are two things that must be present for houseplants to thrive, and blinds and curtains need to be opened during the day to allow maximum light indoors.

Audra and grace are examples of how cultivating plants — indoors or out — can define our homes and bridge different generations. The neighborhoods of Lakeland are a greener and better place because of it.

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PEOPLE

THE

TONY DELGADO INTERVIEW

Newly appointed Lakeland City Manager Tony Delgado tells us about being at the helm written by Adam Spafford | photography by Philip Pietri

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The Lakelander: Please tell us about yourself.

Tony Delgado: I am 55 years old, and I’ve been married to my wonderful wife, Robin, for 22 years.

I was born and raised in the great metropolis of Chicago, Illinois, in a wonderful Mexican household with three siblings (a brother and two sisters) and two loving, hardworking parents.

I received my bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation administration from Southern Illinois University in 1983 and immediately following graduation began my first career in the sports, entertainment, and convention industry in St. Louis working at the St. Louis Checkerdome (Arena). That career spanned 18-plus years, taking me from St. Louis back to Chicago, Philadelphia, Tampa, and ultimately Lakeland. Along the way, I had the great opportunity to work in many entertainment venues and stadiums around the country promoting and managing special

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events as well as booking and marketing live entertainment, conventions, and meetings at the venues I worked for. That career path took a pretty significant change in 2000 when I was provided the opportunity to enter into the municipal administration field with the City of Lakeland.

I am an avid sports fan with a die-hard love affair with the Chicago Cubs. I also enjoy attending live music and sporting events as well searching out great food experiences when traveling.

TL: How long have you been involved in Lakeland’s government?

TD: I have been employed by the City of Lakeland for 19-plus years. I started my career with the City at the Lakeland Center as the facility’s assistant director and within four years was given the opportunity to become part of the City administrative management team. I have been

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part of that team for the last 15 years as assistant city manager, deputy city manager, and ultimately city manager, appointed this past January (2016).

TL: What is your vision for Lakeland? Does it differ from that of your predecessors? Is it different than the city’s current course?

TD: I am confident that my vision for Lakeland is not dissimilar than that of my predecessors. The goal of our office and the organization is to assist in creating a vibrant, innovative, culturally inclusive world-class community through the efforts of a community working together to achieve what we all would consider an exceptional quality of life.

I have great aspirations for the City and our organization. This community has made

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exceptional strides in welcoming and working with new business development and continues to do so. With Central Florida — between Tampa and Orlando quickly becoming a strong regional entity as has been expected — the City of Lakeland is positioning itself for growth, and the municipal organization must prepare by establishing some level of streamlining the regulatory processes and enhancing our current customer-centric philosophy. Additionally, it is our plan to continue to explore options and initiatives to build upon the outstanding quality of life our community currently enjoys — from maintaining first-class public-safety operations to continuing the efforts to establish quality recreational and community gathering places to creating a welcoming community for a diverse population.

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TL: What projects and developments in Lakeland are you excited about?

TD: Obviously, I have a pretty great vantage point to be involved in some great new initiatives. Those that stand out to me today are associated with new business, residential, and quality-of-life projects that should make the community even more enticing to those considering a place to live, work, and play in Florida.

The Catapult 2 project being spearheaded by the Lakeland Economic Development Council will help forge a new level of entrepreneurship and small-business development that will certainly assist our diverse small-business base. The renovation of Joker Marchant Stadium and the Tigertown baseball complex will not only provide a first-class fan experience and enhance the minor-league operations of our Detroit Tiger Baseball Club partners, but more importantly it has allowed the City to solidify that relationship for another 20 years and reap the economic benefits for many years to come. I am also very excited to see new residential development growing in the downtown core with projects like NoBay (North Bay) which will hopefully entice those who want that urban-living lifestyle. I am also excited about how the City has embraced the university and college community and continues to work hard at keeping those new, young professionals in our area.

TL: What things about Lakeland keep you up at night?

TD: Interestingly enough, there are only a few issues: maintaining the wonderful quality of life our community enjoys, while balancing the budget impacts associated with upkeep and maintenance of the services and operation as we continue to evaluate new, creative initiatives and projects. The inevitable realization that our organizational workforce is moving toward a significant turnover, with many of our experienced public servants nearing retirement age in the next five to seven years. The organization will need to ramp up our succession planning efforts and begin evaluating our operations for efficiencies. And, finally, helping prepare our organization and businesses processes for meeting the needs of the business and residential community as our region grows and quickly develops across the Interstate-4 corridor.

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THE GOAL OF OUR OFFICE IS TO ASSIST IN CREATING A VIBRANT, INNOVATIVE, CULTURALLY INCLUSIVE WORLD-CLASS COMMUNITY THROUGH THE EFFORTS OF A COMMUNITY WORKING TOGETHER TO ACHIEVE WHAT WE ALL WOULD CONSIDER AN EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE.

TL: How does a city like Lakeland determine best practices in the realms of economics, government and infrastructure, and then implement them?

TD: The City of Lakeland takes great pride in our benchmarking and evaluation processes. Through a variety of avenues lead by our Department of OMB and individual department evaluations, we regularly look at our peer municipalities in Florida and the nation when apropos for best practice opportunities. Financially, we continue to strive for a fair 7.5 percent reserve within our general operating funds and fair operational and maintenance reserves within our enterprise operations as we establish annual budgets in order to provide some level of safe haven for the taxpayers and utility rate payers. Our organization is continually looking for best-practice options, and administration welcomes ideas from every team member.

The City Commission is currently implementing a benchmarking study utilizing an independent consultant to provide a data-driven review of where our organization currently stands with our peer municipalities, and whether there are areas we can concentrate on enhancing operations in the future. We expect this benchmarking study to be completed sometime in the early summer.

TL: What do you like most about living in Lakeland?

TD: I believe that Lakeland offers a wonderful quality of life that mixes urban vibrancies with a close-knit neighborhood of wonderful people, businesses, and recreational amenities. This close-knit atmosphere allows the opportunity to become involved in the community and really help make a difference. The core of the City is also is creating a great small urban vibe which will only grow with the influx of new business, professionals, and a diverse population. That is pretty exciting, to say the least.

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Vanessa Saunders, PhD, MBA ’16 With a PhD in immunology, Vanessa was ready to move out of the lab and take on the challenges of management. She turned to Florida Southern’s MBA program for its real-world case studies, which gave her the hands-on management experience she needed to move ahead. “I’m not interested in spending sixteen months reading a textbook,” said Vanessa. “I want to use what I’m learning. Getting practical experience is really important for what I want to do with my career.

That’s why I chose FSC.”

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TL: Any final thoughts?

TD: I am extremely humbled and excited to have been appointed the city manager of this wonderful community. I believe that the 15 years working under two outstanding city managers and a variety of city commissioners who have always attempted to do what is best for our City have prepared me well and have given me a realistic understanding of our operations and the community we serve.

My goal, as it has always been from the first day I began my career with the City at the Lakeland Center 19-plus years ago, has been to be fair, honest, and take into account the opinions of those we serve while we look for new and creative ways of helping our community and organizational team grow. We have outstanding community partners who have always offered assistance and have acted as a solid sounding board for the municipal government operations, and I expect us to continue enhancing their input. Our City team is prepared for the future, and we appreciate everyone who continues to believe in Lakeland and the future of positive growth.

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SOUTHERN SUPPER A collision of history, southern hospitality and the modern age written by Alice V. Koehler photography by Tina Sargeant event design by Shawna Carpenter of 2 Sisters Events featuring Chef Marcos Fernandez

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J

ust before sunset on a breezy April evening, 26 Lakelanders gathered to share a meal at The Lakelander’s third Secret Supper Club. In the Southern tradition of hospitality, strangers and old friends alike came together to share in community, celebrate our commonality, and enjoy the one thing that ties us all together: food.

Chef Marcos Fernandez, owner and executive chef at Nineteen61, designed a delicious Southern meal with a modern twist. A plated low-country boil, alligator bites on a nest of grits, johnnycakes, and more, delighted palates and inspired conversation throughout the evening.

Seated around a common table and surrounded by the aged walls of Lakeland’s Federal Building, guests’ attention was subtly drawn back to the foundation of hospitality, growth, and the vision on which our city was built. This distinguished home of Lakeland’s first post office, and treasured national historic landmark, has known the corner of Tennessee and Lemon as home since its dedication in 1919. Dining together within its nearly 100-yearold walls called forth within us the desire to pay homage to our history, both the bane it may exact and the honor it bequeaths, as together we continue to forge a bright future.

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At Grace Manor, my dad is treated like family. The experienced caregivers and a community of friends have helped to make his transition to assisted living a graceful one. He stays active and lives independently, with help when he needs it. I have peace of mind knowing my dad is loved and cared for.

It truly is like family taking care of family.

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SPECIAL THANKS TO Buttercup Bakery ~ bread and dessert J&l Farms ~ eggs Red Roof Farms ~ honey Gregory Fancelli ~ blueberries Emerson Bamaca ~ cocktails

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Whitestone Academy And Learning Center

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863-838-9686 THE LAKELANDER

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HEALTH

BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT

LOW-DOSE CT SCAN HELPS FORMER SMOKERS BREATHE EASIER written by Mary McQueen for Radiology and Imaging Specialists You probably know this already: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

Just as troubling, three out of four people with lung cancer have incurable, locally advanced, or metastatic disease by the time they are diagnosed. Given these circumstances, that person’s five-year survival rate is less than five percent.

The solution couldn’t be more obvious. It’s early detection, plain and simple. So, how do you know you’re a candidate for lung cancer and, therefore, a candidate for an annual low-dose CT (LDCT) scan? The criteria are fairly simple and straightforward. You should consider an annual LDCT if you: • Are between 55 and 77 years of age • Exhibit no symptoms or signs of illness • Have a “30 pack years” tobacco-smoking history. That is, you have smoked at least one pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years, two packs a day for 15 years, or three packs a day for 10 years • Either a current smoker or a former smoker who has quit within the past 15 years The numbers are staggering.

Despite the remarkable advancements made in our ability to diagnose and treat the disease, lung cancer continues to cause more deaths than any other cancer. In the United States alone, there are nearly 200,000 lung cancer-related deaths each year. Why? Simply put, those who are candidates for the disease don’t seek early diagnosis procedures, and those afflicted wait too long to seek treatment. The obvious symptoms, such as persistent cough or spitting blood, don’t usually occur until the cancer is so far advanced that the chances of long-term survival are almost non-existent. Says Dr. Angela Sroufe, a radiologist with Radiology and Imaging Specialists (RIS), “Screening and early detection is critical to improving survival rates, and this procedure helps us find cancers earlier, often far sooner than they would have been clinically apparent.”

LDCT is doing just that.

An annual low-dose CT scan can provide selected patients with a smoking history the edge they need in detecting their cancer early. While the radiation exposure is greater than that of a regular chest X-ray, it is only about one-third the exposure one receives in a regular chest CT scan. As for the benefits of a CT scan of the chest versus a chest X-ray, there is literally no comparison: CT scans provide much more detailed pictures than chest X-rays and are far better at detecting abnormal areas in the lungs. In fact, in its 2016 annual report, the American Cancer Society stated that low-dose CT has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality by 20 percent compared to standard chest X-ray among adults with at least a 30 pack-year smoking history who were current smokers or had quit within 15 years.

“As local doctors become increasingly receptive to the concept of annual low-dose CT screening,” says Dr. Sroufe, “we will see an increase in early detection and with that, an improvement in survival rates among patients. That’s what we’re hoping for.”

And isn’t that what we’re all hoping for?

ABOUT RADIOLOGY AND IMAGING SPECIALISTS Offering five conveniently located facilities throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties, RIS provides the latest technology in imaging services. RIS also is proudly affiliated with Lakeland Regional Health, Winter Haven Hospital, Bartow Regional Medical Center, Bert Fish Medical Center, South Florida Baptist Hospital, Gessler Clinic, and Bond Clinic.

In addition, the RIS group consists of over 30 board-certified radiologists, many of whom also have sub-specialty training in areas such as neuroradiology, musculoskeletal radiology, abdominal body imaging, nuclear medicine, and mammography.

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TASTE

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Breakfast in Bed

Waking up to edible art

written by Jenn Smurr photography by Tina Sargeant prop styling by Lisa Malott hair & makeup by Yolanda Floyd of Salon Salvatore special thank you to the Williams family

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T

he culinary equivalent to a walk on the beach, breakfast in bed is no new concept. It’s a common thought in a common place. I don’t mean to minimize its significance, as there’s beauty in the simple, especially when the company is good.

What I mean to say is this: Why not turn the ordinary into something profound by adding a little art to the mix? Art demands a bit more love and soul and thoughtfulness.

If it’s the thought that counts, then it’s the thoughtfulness that scores big. Cliché or not, our existence on this earth goes by like a fast car, so why not spend our time chasing after the good stuff ? I don’t know about you, but I’ve only got space on my life’s plate for the good stuff.

And, breakfast is GOOD! What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word breakfast? Eggs? Pancakes?

Cap’n Crunch? Yeah, I think about all of those things too, especially Cap’n Crunch, but what if I told you that savory bread pudding and a bruleed parfait are just as simple to whip up? Both are simple, but so much more soulful. You’ll see what I mean by soulful when you try these recipes for yourself at home; they are edible art.

Food for the soul. You’ll be catapulted into breakfast oblivion. And for all my single friends out there, this is totally something you can do for yourself. Have you ever eaten breakfast in bed alone? I have, and it’s glorious. Nothing against my Michael, but it’s important to treat yourself well, turn off your phone, and slow down for a bit, especially in the morning. You’ll be glad you did. Single or spoken for, what better way to start a day than with an artful breakfast in bed?

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Kids Eat Free Monday & Tuesday Dinner

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RECIPES

CREME BRÛLÉE BREAKFAST PARFAITS 1 cup of your favorite yogurt (I love Greek) 2 tsp of sugar, raw is best mixed berries or fresh berry compote granola (recipe follows) Divide your granola and/or fruit among four 8-ounce ramekins. Fill the ramekins to the top with the yogurt. Cover and put in the freezer for 5 minutes.

Sprinkle 2 teaspoons sugar over each ramekin. Caramelize the sugar with a blowtorch by slowly moving the flame back and forth. Let the sugar harden, about 2 minutes, before serving.

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CLEAN AND SIMPLE GRANOLA 3 cups rolled oats 3/4 cup walnuts 1/2 cup pecans 1/2 cup sliced almonds 3 Tbsp raw sugar 1/2 tsp sea salt (I love slightly salty granola; do not leave this out!)

1/2 Tbsp cinnamon 1 Tbsp flax seed 1/4 cup coconut oil 1/3 cup + 1 Tbsp maple syrup, agave, or honey if not vegan 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 medium ripe banana, mashed (~1/2 cup) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix the oats, cinnamon, sugar, salt, flaxseed and nuts together in a large bowl.

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the coconut oil, maple syrup (or agave or honey) and vanilla extract. Once liquidy, remove from heat and whisk in banana puree until well combined.

Pour over the dry ingredients and mix well.

Spread the mixture evenly onto one or two baking sheets (making sure it doesn’t get crowded) and bake for 23-28 minutes or until golden brown. The coconut oil will help it crisp up well, but be sure to watch it carefully as it can brown quickly.

NOTE If you don’t toss the granola while baking, it will get clumpy, which I personally love. But if you want a more crumbly granola, toss/stir a bit at the halfway point to break up the clumps.

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Once the granola is visibly browned, remove from the oven and toss just a bit to let the heat escape. Cool completely on the baking sheet or in a heat-safe bowl. Store in a container or jar with an air-tight seal — it should keep for a couple weeks.

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95

SAVORY BREAD PUDDING WITH COUNTRY BREAD, BACON, AND GRUYÈRE 1-1/2 cups whole milk 1/2 cup heavy cream 5 large eggs 6 bacon slices 1 large shallot, finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, chopped 6 cups cubed (1-inch) country-style bread 5-1/2 ounces Gruyère cheese, coarsely grated (1 1/2 cups) Preheat oven to 375°F with rack in middle. Butter a 2-quart shallow baking dish.

Whisk together milk, cream, eggs, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Cook bacon in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp.

Transfer with tongs to paper towels to drain, then coarsely crumble.

Pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat from skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and cook shallot and garlic, stirring constantly, until golden, about 1 minute.

Stir bacon, bread, and cheese into custard. Transfer to baking dish, and cover with foil. Bake 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake until golden in spots, about 10 minutes more.

RICOTTA AND JAM TOAST fresh brioche or challah bread, toasted ricotta cheese (full fat, full flavor) homemade jams (see recipes elsewhere in this issue)

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COLD BREW COFFEE RECIPE FROM LOCAL ROASTER, PATRIOT COFFEE Using the Toddy Cold Brew System (toddycafe.com): Start by coarsely grinding 12 ounces of freshly roasted Patriot coffee. Darker roasts (Peru La Florida) will produce a chocolatey flavor profile with a heavy body, while lighter roasts (Colombia Timana Tobo) will be light, crisp, and refreshing.

Insert the stopper into the outside bottom of the brewing container; then, dampen the filter and insert it into the inside bottom of the brewing container.

Next, add 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Toddy brewing container and 6 ounces of coarsely ground coffee. Be sure to use filtered water for your brew as the flavor of the water will dramatically impact the flavor of your coffee. Slowly pour 3 more cups of water over the grounds, in a circular motion.

Then, add the remaining 6 ounces of ground coffee.

Finally, wait 5 minutes and slowly add the last 3 cups of water. Avoid stirring the bed of grounds as this can result in a clogged filter. Lightly press down on the topmost grounds with the back of a spoon to ensure all grounds get wet.

Steep your coffee grounds at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours to create a smooth, rich flavor.

Remove the stopper and let your coffee concentrate flow into the glass decanter. Coffee will be fresh for up to 2 weeks in your refrigerator.

Brewed coffee will be concentrated. Begin by diluting with equal parts water. You can adjust the strength of your brew by adding more or less water. Enjoy!

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SWEET SUMMER FLAVORS SWEET SWEET SUMMER SUMMER FLAVORS FLAVORS A

TOAST TO

JAM A TOAST TO JAM

A TOAST TO JAM

WRITTEN BY SARAH SEBASTIAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANI JONES HAIR BY KORTNE FAGUNDO

PROP STYLING BY LISA MALOTT WARDROBE STYLING BY MERCEDES GRAINGER MODEL - JESS STEPHENS

100 THE LAKELANDER

WRITTEN BY SARAH SEBASTIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANI JONES

R S

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M

aking jam transports me back to the warm summer evenings of my childhood. As the sun set, my friends and I would sit on the creaky swing set in the backyard, nibbling on flaky pieces of French bread dripping with homemade strawberry jam. Sticky hands and faces would be rinsed with cold water from the garden hose as we giggled and danced back and forth from foot to foot.

As summer arrives, it seems only appropriate to share some favorite recipes and tips.

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TIPS FROM CANDACE KIELLA Prepping fruit to make jam often takes longer than the actual making of it. I usually prep batches of in-season fruit (wash, de-stem, cut up, etc.) and freeze in the exact quantity I need to make the jam. This enables me to both make a variety of jam year-round and cut down on waste. In addition to freezing fruit, I freeze fresh lemon juice so I’ll have that on hand for recipes that call for it.

I like to sterilize my jars and lids in the dishwasher first by running them through a wash cycle. As I’m making the jam, I sterilize them a second time in a pot of boiling water.

The great thing about canning is you can reuse jars. You’ll need to buy new lids to ensure they properly seal, but it’ll save you money (and eliminate waste) to keep the jars and reuse them. You can find complete tips and canning procedures on any Ball brand mason jars.

You can find Candace’s booth at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market, where she sells a variety of homemade jams, jellies, and butters.

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BLUEBERRY LAVENDER JAM 2 Tbsp dried lavender buds 8 cups fresh blueberries 4-1/2 cups granulated sugar zest and juice of one lemon one (1.75-ounce) package low-sugar powdered pectin, such as Sure-Jell 1/2 tsp unsalted butter Put the lavender buds in a small bowl and pour 1/2 cup of boiling water over them. Let them steep for 10 minutes, then strain the “tea� into a bowl and discard the buds.

Working in batches if necessary, pulse blueberries in blender until coarsely crushed. You should have about 6 cups.

Measure 4-1/4 cups of sugar in one bowl. In another bowl, combine remaining 1/4 cup sugar and pectin.

106 THE LAKELANDER

Combine blueberries, lemon zest and juice, and lavender tea in large, heavy saucepan or stockpot. Stir in sugarpectin mixture and the butter. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly.

Add remaining sugar all at once. Return to a full rolling boil. Boil for one minute. Remove jam from heat, and skim off any foam from surface.

Ladle hot jam into hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims of the jars, cover with lids, and screw bands on until just barely tight. Place jars on rack in pot and cover completely with water. Cover pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 10 minutes.

Turn off heat, uncover pot, and allow jars to rest in water for five minutes. Remove jars from pot and allow them to rest undisturbed on countertop for six hours or overnight.

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STRAWBERRY RHUBARB JAM 4-1/2 cups fresh strawberries, halved 4-1/2 cups rhubarb, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1/4 cup lemon juice 6 cups granulated sugar Mix rhubarb and sugar in a large, heavy pot and let stand for 2 hours. Stir in lemon juice and strawberries. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Set heat to medium-high, and cook jam at a full rolling boil until thickened, stirring often to prevent scorching, 20 to 25 minutes.

Remove jam from heat and stir for 2 to 3 more minutes; skim off any foam.

See previous recipe for canning process.

Margaret Sebastian shared the recipe for Strawberry Rhubarb Jam from a 1950s Kitchen Klatter cookbook, which we’ve adapted here by combining ingredient lists and steps from various food blogs and culinary websites. The Blueberry Lavender Jam recipe can be found on seriouseats.com. The recipes make large batches of jam — adjust as necessary!

108 THE LAKELANDER

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A citrus grove on Lake Hollingsworth. The Francis Beach Pavilion with its diving platform is visible in the distance.

Photo Courtesy of Special Collections, Lakeland Public Library

THE LAKELANDER 109

CULTURE

The Southgate Arch

Bridging Lakeland’s past and future

written by Abby Jarvis

photography by Tina Sargeant

THE LAKELANDER 111

T

he Southgate Shopping Center, its trademark parabolic arch now freshly painted, is a landmark in Lakeland. Not only does it house the Southgate Publix, it’s also a cinematic icon.

Its appearance in Tim Burton’s 1990 movie Edward Scissorhands cemented the shopping center and its arch as a Lakeland landmark and a cultural icon.

The shopping center was built in 1957 and housed Publix’s flagship store. The concept of the shopping center was still relatively new at the time, and Publix founder George Jenkins saw immense potential in the style. Southgate wasn’t the first shopping center to be built in Florida, but it was certainly the first to be built in Lakeland — and it remains a thriving center today.

Architect Donovan Dean, who was chosen to design and build the center, was a local architect who had also built other mid-century modern buildings in the area.

In a fall 2001 article in the SCA Journal, author Kim Hinder noted that supermarkets in the 1950s tended to

112 THE LAKELANDER

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THE LAKELANDER 113

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114 THE LAKELANDER

favor an Exaggerated Modern style, which was marked by “colossal canopies, parabolic arches, sign pylons, or pyramidal roofs.” Southgate Publix was no exception, and an invitation to the grand opening of the shopping center invited attendees to “make plans now to rocket on down to help us celebrate the ‘blast-off ’ of this 16-store galaxy.”

A 2009 article in The Ledger notes that, at the time the Southgate center was built, Lakeland didn’t extend much farther south than the borders of the Dixieland area. Jenkins’ decision to build the $1-million Southgate center on the edge of town created a stir among Lakeland residents. An ad placed by the City of Lakeland congratulating Publix on the opening of its newest store said, “The completion of this modern shopping center is another giant stride in the continued growth and progress of Lakeland.” The center eventually paved the way for other businesses to start expanding south of the downtown area.

Although the shopping center was built with the future in mind when it was erected in 1957, the center represented a slightly different ethos in Edward Scissorhands. When Burton chose Lakeland and a nearby community, Lutz, as locations for his movie,

#SummerCleanse

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To today’s Lakeland residents, the Southgate Shopping Center isn’t an exciting glimpse of the future, nor is it an emblem of boring suburbanism.

THE LAKELANDER 117

he said they were chosen because they represented “a kind of generic, plain-wrap suburb” that they made even more featureless during production. The center’s Exaggerated Modern style fit nicely with the film’s overall aesthetic of a boring but tidy suburban neighborhood in the 1950s.

In the film, the shopping center houses Edward’s hair salon, which marks the peak of his meteoric rise to fame just before his subsequent fall from grace. The arch looms ominously over Edward and his friend Peg as she takes him to the salon for the first time, and the salon is where Edward’s innocence is first tested

by Joyce, another local housewife. The salon plays a relatively small role in the movie, with Edward fleeing the shopping center after his encounter with Joyce and becoming caught up in other issues shortly thereafter.

Southgate Shopping Center may have been chosen to play only a small part in Edward Scissorhands, but the movie itself is actually a remarkably important film in several actors’ careers. It was the last big-screen film in which horror legend Vincent Price made an appearance — he played Edward’s eccentric creator who died of a heart attack while creating Edward, leaving him without hands. The movie also marks the

118 THE LAKELANDER

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THE LAKELANDER 119

When it was built in 1957, the Southgate Shopping Center marked the city’s southward expansion past the borders of the Dixieland area.

first movie in which Tim Burton and Johnny Depp worked together; the two got along so well that they went on to work together on seven other films together (for now!). Tim Burton and the film’s composer, Danny Elfman, both count Edward Scissorhands among their favorite films, and the movie was nominated for multiple awards.

To today’s Lakeland residents, the Southgate Shopping Center isn’t an exciting glimpse of the future, nor is it an emblem of boring suburbanism. The center and its trademark arch have become a beloved landmark, a symbol of the city’s history, growth, and, yes, its small claim to fame as the location of a major motion picture. When the Southgate Publix closed for renovations in 2008, many local residents were worried that the arch would be taken down.

120 THE LAKELANDER

They needn’t have worried; the arch still exists today and is carefully cared for by Publix Supermarkets.

When it was built in 1957, the Southgate Shopping Center marked the city’s southward expansion past the borders of the Dixieland area. Today, the city looks much different than it did then; houses and businesses sprawl far south (and north!) of the landmark, and South Florida Avenue, once a lightly used street with little traffic, is now a major artery in the city. Many businesses have come and gone since the parabolic arch was first raised, and more are being developed every day. But, regardless of the hustle and bustle of Lakeland’s development, the Southgate Shopping Center’s history has cemented it as a landmark that will be preserved for many generations to come.

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OPENINGS & COMING SOON

OPEN

COMING SOON

CHEDDAR’S SCATCH KITCHEN

5TH AND HALL

Location: 3411 South Florida Avenue Classic American dishes, from chicken fried steak to Monte Cristos to chicken pot pies. Known for their made-from-scratch recipes, Cheddar’s features fresh dishes made-to-order.

COPPER PENNY HAIR STUDIO

Location: 1003 South Florida Avenue Specializing in a wide variety of hair design and coloring services, Copper Penny Hair Studio is owned by Redken color specialist and stylist, Tina Watson. Copper Penny is set in a unique space surrounded by rustic brick walls, with furnishings entirely locally sourced.

GLORY DAYS GRILL

Location: Lakeside Village, 3790 Lakeside Village Court This sports bar and grill is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and affordable menu.

Location: 1221 South Florida Avenue Date: Spring 2016 Inspired by classic 1960s’ Ivy League menswear, this clothing store is already a Lakeland fashion staple. Currently open on an occasional basis, 5th and Hall will soon will be offering current street trends year-round.

BORN & BREAD BAKEHOUSE LOCATION: SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE

Date: Early 2016 Currently selling their delicious baked goods at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market, Born & Bread Bakehouse plans to open a storefront in Dixieland this spring.

POSTO 9

MELLOW MUSHROOM

Location: 3555 Lakeland Highlands Road Recently opened in front of Lowe’s, this well-known pizza chain is known for its menu full of vegan options and famed gluten-free crust.

It also offers burgers, salads, sandwiches, and craft beers.

Location: 215 East Main Street Date: December 2016 This Brazilian gastropub will offer modern Brazilian cooking techniques combined with Florida’s farm-to-table seasonal foods, including grass-fed beef, cage-free and organic chicken and pork, fresh seafood, and produce from local farmers. The building will have three levels: a first-floor lounge and dining room, a second-floor event space, and a roof-top lounge.

THAI OISHI

POLLO TROPICAL

Location: Lakeside Village, 1535 Town Center Drive ​Serving authentic Thai cuisine and Japanese sushi

Location: South Florida Avenue Date: TBA This Florida-based restaurant chain recently announced it soon will be serving up Caribbean-inspired eats at its first location in Polk County.

THE WAX & THE NEEDLE

Location: 509 South Florida Avenue This local record shop is committed to bringing you the best new and used records, with a high level of customer service. They also sell instruments, record players, band merchandise, and more.

122 THE LAKELANDER

WAWA

Location: Corner of Edgewood Drive and Bartow Highway Date: TBA This popular one-stop for coffee, fresh food, and fuel services will soon open its second location in Lakeland. An added WaWa bonus: feefree ATMs!

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THE LAKELANDER 123

EVENTS CALENDAR

RECURRING EVENTS

EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT PUB RUN @ RED DOOR LAKELAND 6:15 p.m. - 7 p.m.

EVERY WEDNESDAY DIXIELAND TWILIGHT MARKET 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT PUB RUN @ THE CHOP SHOP 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

EVERY SATURDAY MORNING MITCHELL’S PUB RUN 7 a.m. - 8 a.m.

EVERY SATURDAY MORNING BLACK & BREW FUN RUN 8 a.m. - 9 a.m.

EVERY SATURDAY DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Food Truck Rally Downtown Farmers Curb Market

124 THE LAKELANDER

I insist on being involved in the decisions.

Though Cornerstone care is available in many assisted living facilities or in one of our Hospice Houses all over Central Florida, most patients like Marjorie still prefer in-home care. But no matter where she needs us, our professionals will be in her corner, ready to provide her with all the comforts of home.

866.742.6655 // cornerstonehospice.org Cornerstone is committed to caring for all hospice patients regardless of payer source or ability to pay. 100% covered by Medicare & Medicaid

THE LAKELANDER 125

EVENTS CALENDAR

Ovarian Cancer Support Group of Polk County

MAY

Join us for a

Fundraising Event

MAY 13 - JUNE 17 ANNUAL LAKELAND ART GUILD EXHIBITION flsouthern.edu/visitors/melvin-gallery.aspx

Dinner Entertainment Silent Auction

June 4th, 6-10pm The Imperial Swan Hotel Tickets on sale now

MAY 28 JAGUARS VS. CHARLESTON RAVENS FOOTBALL GAME thelakelandcenter.com

For more information or to buy tickets email

JUNE

JUNE 3 GREAT FUTURES CELEBRATION FUNDRAISER 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. business.lakelandchamber.com/events/details/great-futurescelebration-4104

ovcasgroup.polkfl@aol.com

Ovarian Cancer Support Group of Polk Fl

JUNE 4 FAMILY ART WORKSHOP 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. polkmuseumofart.org

JUNE 9 FOOD TRUCK RALLY 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. facebook.com/lakelandfoodtruckrally

Opening Soon!

2004 CR 540-A • Lakeland, FL

JUNE 11 JAGUARS PLAYOFF FOOTBALL GAME thelakelandcenter.com

JUNE 28 - JULY 2 MISS FLORIDA PAGEANT thelakelandcenter.com

Stuart Harrell, O.D.

Tincy Thomas, O.D.

Accepting New Patients Call for an appointment today!

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www.EyesFL.com • FB.com/EyesFL optical • cataracts • eyelid lifts • lasik • glaucoma • retina 126 THE LAKELANDER

Since 1972 We’ve treated them like family.

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gain

Call Our Team To Learn How To With Your New Mortgage!

Congratulations TO OUR CLASS OF 2016

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CALL 863.644.1408 TO SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR OR VISIT GENEVACLASSICALACADEMY.COM

THE LAKELANDER 127

EDUCATION

READY TO LAUNCH GETTING A HEAD START ON THE FUTURE written by Rebecca Knowles The Class of 2016 has crossed the stage and turned their tassels. Over the last year, they have made important college and career decisions, and are poised to move on to the next chapters of their lives.

As they head off, the next class is looking down a gauntlet of applications, family discussions, and choices about the future. Having been a college advisor for many years, I have had the opportunity to work with students and families as they approach and navigate this exciting, and sometimes stressful, time. Because every situation is different, personalized advising is the best way to ensure a positive outcome. Even so, there are some tips for the college search and application process that apply to everyone.

First, start early. I know this doesn’t help students in the Class of 2017, but the earlier you start talking about college and planning for the future, the better positioned you will be to achieve your goals. College planning can start as soon as a child is born by establishing a college fund and/or buying into a savings program such as the Florida Pre-Paid College Fund. The earlier you start, the more time you will have to accrue the funds needed to pay ever-increasing tuition, room and board, and fees, and the less money you will need to save for this purpose each month. While not every child will end up attending college, having this money already allocated allows the student to think of college as something financially within reach. If a child ends up not going to college, the money can usually be used for something else, after a certain time period (be sure to check the rules for the different savings plans to know the options).

Other than financial planning, students and families should start talking about post-secondary plans no later than middle school. While the specifics of these plans will likely change over the years, it is important to have a general idea of what the student hopes to do after high school. The path a student takes in high school should correlate accurately with these post-secondary plans. If a student wants to go to a highly selective college, for example, that student needs to take upper-level classes (Honors, AP, IB) in high school. In order to be eligible to take these classes, the student needs to be successful in the middle school equivalents, since course placement in ninth grade is based on a combination of middle school grades, test scores, and middle school teacher recommendations. By talking with their students about future goals, parents can help keep their students on track and have something to refer back to when curricular questions arise.

Starting the summer after eighth grade, and throughout high school, students should keep an accurate and current list of activities, community service, leadership positions, and awards and honors. When completing college applications in the senior year, this list will be a huge help. Every application will ask for information about these things, because these are things that matter to colleges.

Most people applying to a certain school will have grades and test scores in the acceptable range, so colleges look for things that set students apart. How did this student give back to the community?

Did this student serve as a leader? Did the student excel in any areas? Many students are involved, but meaningful involvement can be a differentiator. Colleges don’t want to see someone who padded a resume with surface involvement in lots of clubs; they would rather accept someone who was deeply committed to something worthwhile. If the student can show passion for a cause or activity, even better.

Once the curricular and extracurricular pieces are in place, the process becomes much easier. In the sophomore and junior years, students should research colleges, being sure to expand the search to include schools that aren’t the first to come to mind; there are many hidden gems out there.

Make campus visits at the end of the junior year and beginning of the senior year, and start the application process early. Some application deadlines are as early as October, so make sure to plan ahead, remembering that most applications require essays and letters of recommendation, which need to be started way before they are due.

There are many nuances and choices to make during the application process, based on the student’s ultimate goals, so seeking out an experienced advisor early in the process can be a great benefit.

College-bound students have many options and opportunities, and starting the process early will ensure time to seek out and fully explore all of them.

128 THE LAKELANDER

ABOUT REBECCA KNOWLES Rebecca moved to Lakeland when she was two and is a graduate of Lakeland High School. After earning a BA in psychology from Atlanta’s Agnes Scott College, she returned to Lakeland and taught English at her high school alma mater for several years. She is currently the director of the Center for Learning and Community Engagement at All Saints Academy, where she is responsible for developing partnerships within the community and innovative learning opportunities for students. Rebecca enjoys travel, sushi, and — most importantly — spending time with her husband, Brian; children Clayton (7) and Alison (3); and parents, Bobby and Diane Baum.

THE WEDDING ISSUE | JUNE 2016

HISTORY Congratulations on a wonderful 50 years Polk Museum of Art

Date: Unknown A former Publix Super Market, the building once located on East Palmetto was secured by the Polk Museum of Art in 1970. There the location served as a space for the art’s collection and exhibition, until 1988 when PMOA was rebuilt. It is where the museum’s parking lot is located today.

Photo courtesy of Polk Museum of Art

years of

EXPERIENCED MINDS handling

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