The Lakelander - Issue 53 / The Men's Issue

ISSU E 53

THE MEN’S ISSUE SEVENTH A NNIVERSARY

Sophisticated, Southern, and

ambitious

— a book of

inspiration for the Lakeland gentleman

FINANCIAL PEACE OF MIND IN RETIREMENT? It’s Possible at

Central Florida Has Spoken . . .

From potential tax benefits to a predictable – and affordable – monthly fee that eliminates all worries about escalating health care costs, your carefree and confident retirement starts with Lifecare at The Estates.

Our exciting, uncompromised lifestyle features modern floor plan designs for every budget, ranging from 475 to 2500 sq. ft., convenient services, social and cultural events, and an array of amenities you’ll love.

We’re Honored to Be Named

“Best of the Best” in Retirement Living!

But best of all, you’ll enjoy all of this – plus financial security and peace of mind for the future with assisted living, short-term rehabilitation, and skilled nursing right on site.

Our Residents Say It Best: “For us, there is a great deal of peace of mind knowing that our investment at The Estates is actually protecting our estate as we grow older.”

Edgar & Louise Lee

We invite you to come see for yourself what makes us "The Best!" Join us for an upcoming event or schedule your personal visit today.

“We love our spacious apartment, the abundance of activities, the good selection of food, the friendly residents and the availability of transportation offered for our convenience.”

Paul & Marge Kozak

“I found many opportunities here I would never have found otherwise: opportunities to travel near and far; opportunities to attend special events here and elsewhere; opportunities to find new friends.”

Vivian Pemberton

DECISIONS. DECISIONS. At The Estates, Every Day Brings New Choices & Adventure!

We take care of everyday hassles and worries, so your biggest decision is what to do today – and what to save for tomorrow!

• Create a masterpiece in our art studio – or sharpen your skills in the woodworking shop • Perk up with a latte in the bistro – or entertain family and friends in our private dining room • Enjoy a fitness class – or shape up in a session with our personal trainer • Refresh in the pool with water aerobics – or indulge at the beauty salon • Stay informed in the technology center – or be enlightened at a cultural event • Get into the swing on the putting green – or bond with your pet in our dog park • Go for a local shopping trip – or check out attractions in nearby Tampa or Orlando • Play cards with friends – or relax in the comfort of your modern 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom apartment home.

Your Carefree & Confident Retirement Begins Here.

Call today to schedule a visit or visit us online to view our expansive social calendar!

UNCOMPROMISED RETIREMENT LIVING The Estates is a Life Plan Community offering a vibrant independent living lifestyle where you can LIVE without worry for the future!

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Years of Cong to the Lake ratulations lande r

Kennedy Eleven Polk County locations to serve you!

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

Lakeland Combee Lakeland North 1225 N. Combee Rd. 1409 N. Florida Ave. (863) 665-3111 (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

Haines City 35495 Hwy. 27 (863) 422-3144

1350 N. Broadway Eagle Lake (US 98) Bartow 1515 Hwy. 17 S. (863) 533-1611 (863) 294-7749

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

I SS U E 53

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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C O N T E N T S

THE MEN’S ISSUE

50 • THE MIXOLOGIST

The Old-Fashioned Effect A brief history on one of the world’s oldest and most iconic cocktails and a few recipes inspired by its enduring influence

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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C O N T E N T S

68 FEATURES

14

58 • PEOPLE

68 • STYLE

A Few Good Men

Kings of the South

Profiles of men leading the way in business, creativity, and kindness

Fall attire with a nod to Southern tradition

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

As a passionate and highly-skilled board-certified plastic surgeon with over 19 years of experience,

DR. FAEZA KAZMIER wants to help you feel confident in your beauty, inside and out. She offers a range of natural looking enhancement options including surgical and nonsurgical treatments that can help you achieve the look of your dreams.

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C O N T E N T S

80 • CULTURE

Sons of Thunder The story behind the bikes, the brotherhood, and a nearing crosscountry adventure for local young riders 92 • RECOMMENDS

The Wish List From the practical to the extravagant — our team recommends gifts and products for the man in your life 102 • TASTE

Fire Up The Grill

80

Master the art of grilling with these expert tips and tricks from our friends at Whiskey Bent BBQ Supply 116 • FAMILY

The Swinging Pendulum of Fatherhood A practical discussion on work-life balance for a father

92

102

DEPARTMENTS

16

18 • MASTHEAD

22 • CONTRIBUTORS

26 • METRO

20 • EDITOR’S NOTE

24 • LETTERS

130 • HISTORY

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

ACROSS THE ATLANTIC American Impressionism

through the French Lens

8.10.19 to 10.13.19

A BRUSH WITH HERSTORY

The Paintings of

Gabriela Gonzalez Dellosso

12.14.19 to 4.12.20

Lakelander9x10.875.indd 1

GLOBAL ART OF THE 1970S From the SC Johnson Collection

11.9.19 to 1.26.20

MUSIC & DANCE in Painting of the

Dutch Golden Age 2.8.20 to 5.31.20

7/9/2019 4:14:37 PM

Curt Patterson Jason Jacobs • Brandon Patterson PUBLISHER

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS

Annalee Mutz

Daniel Barceló

MANAGING EDITOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Advertising ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ADVERTISING SALES

Curt Patterson | 863.409.2449 Jason Jacobs | 863.606.8785

Editorial CONTRIBUTORS

COPY EDITOR EDITORIAL INTERN

Daniel Barceló, Bryan Brown, Priscilla Burr, Tim Cox, Abdiel Gonzalez, Joe Hepler, Sam Hepler, Annalee Mutz, Katherine Stanford Laura Burke Sam Hepler

Creative

DESIGN INTERN

Michelle Simanca Dan Austin, Daniel Barceló, Paul Bostrom, Rob Christian Crosby, Jenna Neal, Jason Stephens Tiffany Kulas

STYLISTS

Kayla Judy, Naime De La Cruz, Lisa Malott

DESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHERS

Digital DIGITAL MARKETING DIRECTOR DIGITAL MARKETING INTERN VP, FINANCE GENERAL COUNSEL

Sally Ibarra Barceló Ansley Blackwell, Katherine Stanford Deb Patterson Ted W. Weeks IV

Issue 53 The Lakelander is published ten times annually by Patterson Jacobs Media Group, 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 • thelakelander.com Customer Service: 863.701.2707 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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E D I T O R ’ S

N O T E

ADAPTING YOUR OWN APPROACH

I’m honored and excited to be guest editor of this issue for a couple of reasons: • I have great appreciation for The Lakelander; it’s a well-designed, well-written publication that consistently produces great, relevant content.

• It’s the Men’s issue!

There’s a lot of pressure on men these days, much of it selfimposed. Maybe there’s always been a lot of pressure, but it seems more hyper today. As we strive to be better dads, husbands, boyfriends, employees, (pretty much everything) while trying to advance our careers, we have a

tendency to compare. And social media, among other things, makes it look like everyone else is doing it better.

I believe the key is to realize that God created each of us uniquely.

Although it’s OK (important, actually) to observe and learn from others, it’s also critical that we discover our own path. We have to develop confidence in just being ourselves and consistently growing as who He intended us to be.

There’s a lot of great content in this issue ranging from thoughtful fatherly insights to grilling secrets to style tips. There’s even

tcox77@gmail.com @timothypcox

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something for the sneakerheads.

We hope you’ll not only find it to be inspirational but that you’ll use it. Not to copy others, necessarily, but to pick up a few things that you can adapt to your own approach. So, read on, my friends, and stop comparing.

Start believing and press on.

To quote my dear friend and pastor, Andrew Gard, “You’re probably doing better than you think you are.”

Oh, and ladies, you should go ahead and read on, too! You may learn something about us guys.

And you may find a gift idea or two from our “Wish List.”

annalee@pattersonjacobsmedia.com @annaleemutz

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

Call today to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION (863) 450-4060

VITALITY M E D I C A L

offices: Lakeland and Celebration

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C O N T R I B U T O R S

BRYAN BROWN

“Sons of Thunder” photographed by Paul Bostrom, pg. 80

Bryan Brown, a native Mississippian, arrived in Lakeland six years ago. He is passionate about journalism and storytelling, using relationships and travel as sources of inspiration. Bryan serves as the executive director of engagement for One More Child and is happily married to his wife, Rachel. He is the father of two little girls, Lilly Belle and Ruthie Grace.

PAUL BOSTROM Paul Bostrom is a commercial and editorial photographer based in Lakeland. He mostly specializes in the meticulous pointing of lights at things. His work consists of a wide range of activities, from eating snacks while trying not to fall asleep in a dark studio to hanging out of an airplane window or sitting in a pool all day. He also builds things, lifts heavy things, and likes podcasts and books. If you’re still reading this, find him on Instagram (@paulbostrom) and send him a picture of your dog. Just because that would be hilarious. Paul wrote this. Hi, Mom! paulbostrom.com

DANIEL BARCELÓ How did you first get into photography?

I started shooting cars and planes back in 2012 because that gave me the opportunity to play with toys and have experiences I couldn’t afford otherwise, and get motivated. Since then, it turned into a real job, and I’m super grateful I now get to work at the level where I sometimes complain about having to do things I used to dream about doing. Funny how that works.

You’ve contributed to numerous issues of The Lakelander. What has been your

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favorite shoot to date?

The one we’re doing soon that I can’t tell you about.

Tell us about one of the most elaborate shoots you’ve been a part of.

Probably a recent one for Kingsford Charcoal where I assisted with Art Streiber, the guy who shoots all the Hollywood/TV show stuff. Filled a 10,000-square-foot Universal soundstage with five different sets, art department dumped a trailer of baseball-diamond dirt and built a home plate, a deck, and a backyard to shoot David

Ortiz and Cecil and Prince Fielder grilling naked. Good stuff. (Check out @aspictures on Instagram to see behind the scenes from that, and if you’re a photo person who wants to learn how to light, this is the one account to follow).

Where’s your favorite place to eat in town?

To be honest, there are probably 20 great new places I still need to try, and it’ll probably be one of those, so I can’t say.

I eat more Chipotle than I’m proud of but definitely not as much as Campbell Rice or that dude from the band Foxhall.

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

Daniel Barceló is a multidisciplinary creative professional leading the design and photography teams as The Lakelander‘s creative director. As a graduate of both Lakeland Christian School and Southeastern University, Daniel is excited for the opportunity to work and invest in the city that he has called home for many years. @danielhbarcelo

See the masthead on p. 18 for a list of all contributing writers and photographers.

L E T T E R S

FIND || LIFE IS FULL OF SWEET SURPRISES - TONITE I ALMOST CHOKED ON MY PIZZA WHILE THUMBING THROUGH THE SHELTER EDITION OF @LAKELANDERMAG .

SUCH SWEET FRIENDS FEATURED WHO HAVE HONORED ME WITH HAVING JUNE TAYLOR PIECES IN THEIR HOMES! @junetaylorshop // Instagram

“CAUGHT LUNA MAE READING OUR LOCAL #LAKELANDERMAG SHE APPROVES....” @fallon_jaques // Instagram

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@LAKELANDERMAG WROTE A GREAT PIECE ON ALL OF OUR FALL SCENTS! BE SURE TO GIVE IT A READ, AND VISIT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS TO SMELL THEM FOR YOURSELF. IF YOU CAN’T STOP INTO A LOCATION, THE ARTICLE DOES A WONDERFUL JOB AT DESCRIBING EACH SCENT. @RafaNaturalCo // Twitter

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

Celebrating 115 Years

Lakeland Electric 1904-2019

MY CUSTOMERS DEPEND ON ME. I DEPEND ON LAKELAND ELECTRIC.

Chris Ross

CUSTOMER SERVICE, TUNES-N-TINT

As a local business, we know that your customers depend on you. As your locally owned power utility, we care about the electricity you depend on every day. We are proud to continue delivering excellent service to the community in which we both live and serve. With affordable rates and dependable power, we are sustainable for the future. Join us as we celebrate 115 years of being locally owned by you!

lakelandelectric.com

M E T R O

THE MEN’S ISSUE

Learning and Earning the Title of

G E NTLE MAN How we can celebrate the best a man can be

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

Last January, Gillette launched a new ad titled “We Believe: The Best a Man Can Give.” A new take on Gillette’s 30-year-old slogan “The Best a Man Can Get,” the two-minute video reflects on a few current issues affecting today’s culture such as bullying and the oversexualization of women in media. These issues are depicted in scenes that portray young men being bullied and women being harassed by other men.

The ad takes a turn when a voiceover interjects with this question: “Is this the best a man can get?”

The commercial then depicts scenes of men actively taking a stand against toxic behavior. Men are helping protect their children from bullies and intervening in moments of sexual harassment.

The ad blew up with millions of views in a matter of hours, and the hashtag #GilletteAd trended on twitter. The ad adequately acknowledged apparent issues in traditional male behaviors and its effect on our culture today, and many were deeply moved by the ad’s overall message.

Likewise, the ad also sparked intense backlash and divided an audience. It stirred debates and made many wonder if the commercial perpetuates antimale rhetoric and criticizes traditional masculine qualities.

Research earlier that year does seem

to support some of the conversation regarding toxic masculinity’s negative impact on culture today, though. In a report by the American Psychological Society (APA), researchers found that toxic masculinity (or traditional masculinity, as they say in the report) has been linked to higher rates of completed suicide, violence, substance abuse, cardiovascular problems, and early mortality.

According to APA’s report, research shows there is a set of unspoken (and sometimes spoken) expectations that surround men which perpetuates toxic behavior, such as suppressing emotions, and violence as an indicator of power. In other words, toxic masculinity is what can come of teaching boys that they are weak if they openly express their emotions and are not tough all the time.

MEN CAN BE TOUGH AND PROTECTIVE, AND THEY CAN BE E M P AT H E T I C A N D VULNERABLE. MEN CAN BE STRONG AND DECISIVE, AND THEY CAN BE INTUITIVE A N D P AT I E N T.

I SS U E 53

The report states: “Socialization for conforming to traditional masculinity ideology has been shown to limit males’ psychological development, constrain their behavior, result in gender role strain and gender role conflict (Pleck, 1981, 1995; O’Neil, 2008; O’Neil & Renzulli, 2013), and negatively influence mental health (e.g., O’Neil, 2008, 2013, 2015) and physical health (Courtenay, 2011; Gough & Robertson, 2017). Indeed, boys and men are overrepresented in a variety of psychological and social problems.”

So, has our definition of a good man changed? Should we abandon what has been the traditional ways of learning to be a gentleman?

It seems that the issues that surround these toxic ideologies aren’t necessarily in masculinity, or men, itself. There are many ways that men — and women — can exhibit unhealthy behavior that leave a negative impact on society. As Gillette’s ad encourages, it’s our responsibility to highlight areas that leave a positive impact, and identity and fix areas that are leaving a negative one.

So maybe it’s our responsibility to not put limitations around the definition of a man. Men can be tough and protective, and they can be empathetic and vulnerable. Men can be strong and decisive, and they can be intuitive and patient. Men have a number of strengths that play very important roles in our society. Let’s take some time to celebrate those and model the best a man can be.

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M E T R O

FLORIDA POLY BREAKS GROUND Florida Polytechnic University has broken ground on their new stateof-the-art Applied Research building.

The two-story building will be located on the northwest side of the campus, adjacent to their iconic Innovation, Science, and Technology Building.

The construction is on track to be completed in two years and believed to be a great economic boom for the community.

A COZY SPACE FOR TWO

L

akeland icons Jenna O’Brien, owner of Twenty Seven, and Benjamin Vickers, owner of Honeycomb Bread, have teamed up to bring a little more sunshine to the community. Their brick and mortar, located at 213 East Bay Street in downtown Lakeland had its soft opening on August 17, and Lakelanders were not disappointed. With

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incredible support from the community, they were able to raise over $12,000 to get the store up and running.

The first half of the space is home to Twenty Seven products — a variety of prints, stationery, and retro accessories — and it feels like you’ve walked into a warm ray of sunshine. O’Brien chose to feature various products from other small businesses alongside her own, creating the perfect

Lakeland’s newest brick-and-mortar houses two local favorites

space to discover your new favorite small business.

The second half of the store is home to Honeycomb Bread.

Honeycomb offered Lakelanders a sneak peek of their new space at a soft opening on September 14 before both stores had their official grand opening on September 21. In addition to offering their delicious baked goods, Honeycomb has a variety of coffee options from local

roasters, including Concord Coffee, Patriot Coffee, and Ethos Coffee, and also carries a wide range of teas from Harney & Sons.

Complete with cozy seating and warm lighting, this space begs you to buy a journal from Twenty Seven, grab a cinnamon roll from Honeycomb, and stay awhile. Not to mention there’s an adorable community garden with outdoor seating tucked into the alley next to the storefront.

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ART BY JASON DEMEO Co-founder and chief innovation officer of We Are Curio, Jason DeMeo is also an interdisciplinary artist here in Lakeland. His work brings together different styles of art and embodies the synthesis of bold color, composition, improvisation, meaning, emotion, scale, and gesture. His eclectic, curated approach to life and art is a movement that he has coined as “synthesism.” His work can be found in local shops like June Taylor and Twenty Seven and is also available for commissions. jaspace.squarespace.com instagram.com/jaspace_______/

LCS alumna Marris Smith (’07), a registered nurse, served two tours on board the Africa Mercy Hospital Ship after graduating from the University of Tampa.

Be

A place to { challenged }

{ innovative } { mission-minded } { inspired } { compassionate }

At LCS, we believe that establishing a strong foundation is crucial for lifelong success.

Our goal is to develop students who are prepared for college but, more importantly, for life beyond the classroom – to lead and serve in their professions, in their communities, in their families and in their churches.

Visit our website, then call Julie Rice, Director of Enrollment, for a tour.

lcsonline.org

1111 Forest Park Street, Lakeland | 863-688-2771 1111 Forest Park Street, Lakeland • 863-688-2771 • lcsonline.org

M E T R O

TOOL REVIEWS WITH THE PROS Pro Tool Reviews is an online publication that was created when one of the founders, Clint DeBoer, saw a need for tool reviews that addressed the professional industry. Tradesmen, builders, and contractors all contribute reviews on hundreds of brands and tools that help professionals find the best tool that can help save both time and money. Learn more about Pro Tool Reviews in this interview with Clint DeBoer.

The Lakelander: When did you first start Pro Tool Reviews?

Clint DeBoer: We started back in 2008 because we didn't see a lot of publications that were addressing the professional.

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TL: Why was there a need for a website like Pro Tool Reviews?

CD: There were a lot of DIY, print, and online publications that catered to people who were building projects on their own.

However, there wasn’t anything that took a professional approach to tool reviews that really had a sense of wanting to provide information that would help a tradesman or business owner make a good call on which tools really were the best.

TL: What did you do prior to starting Pro Tools Reviews, and how did you come up with the idea?

CD: I had renovated a couple of houses, so I was very familiar with tools in general and which ones I did and didn’t prefer. I already had experience reviewing products for people, so I understood how to lay out a review that would be very informative and fun to read at the same time. What I realized was that there was definitely room in the market for something that addressed reviews of power tools. I brought onboard a friend of mine, Tom Gaige, who has since moved on, and we took almost a year to build up content and debuted

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the site with about 500 pages of reviews and content.

TL: In what industries are your reviewers?

CD: Our reviewers are actively involved in the trade and range from plumbers and electricians to framers that build houses for a living. Tom, who started the site with me back in 2008, has actually come back into the company to help us with doing in-house reviews when we pit tool against tool for our category reviews.

TL: In addition to providing reviews, does Pro Tool Reviews do anything else within the industry?

CD: Every year we do something called the Pro Tool Innovation Awards, which recognizes innovation in the industry. We have been running it for seven years and it is amazing because every major manufacturer enters their tools.

This year was our biggest; we had over 350 entries from major tool brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt, Black & Decker, and more.

protoolsreviews.com

M E T R O

S TA R T E R

KIT

AT H L E T I C

Chase’s Pick: New Balance 997H FINISH LINE – LAKELAND SQUARE MALL PRICE RANGE: $$

Written by Joe Hepler

Top shoe recommendations to help you take on the day with confidence and style

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Growing up as a kid in the ’90s, I had two heroes: Michael Jordan and Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez. MJ, the greatest basketball player of all time (don’t @ me); and Benny the Jet, the fictitious character from The Sandlot who hopped Old Man Myrtle’s fence and “pickled the Beast” in order to get back a ball signed by Babe Ruth, were larger than life. They were demi-gods endowed with superhuman abilities, and they were endlessly cool. And, in my mind, they both derived their powers from the same source: their shoes.

Jordan wore his signature sneakers which are, nearly two decades since MJ retired from basketball,

arguably the most iconic shoes on the planet. I remember watching Space Jam and desperately wanting the Jordan 11s he wore (spoiler: It’s been 23 years and I still desperately want them). Benny wore PF Flyers; “Shoes guaranteed to make a kid run faster and jump higher,” says the film’s narrator. And I believed it. After all, they were the “secret weapon” he used to face The Beast, something only one kid in history had ever attempted ... and he got eaten.

Today, if I’m honest, I still think of shoes as “secret weapons.” Whether you’re lacing them up, slipping them on, or buckling them up, shoes have this ability

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I’ve liked New Balance since I was back in high school. They’re another go-to that can be worn with anything.

I consider them the high-class athletic shoe. And there’s a reason dads love to wear New Balance: they’re very comfortable! The 997Hs are hip, rare, and this colorway is outstanding.

Joe’s Pick: Adidas Originals NMD R1 CHAMPS SPORTS OR FINISH LINE – LAKELAND SQUARE MALL

Price Range: $$-$$$ I’m a huge fan of Adidas’ athletic shoes. The Ultra Boosts are a bit more pricey and harder to come by; whereas the NMDs are more affordable and come in a greater variety of colorways, which allows for you to more easily differentiate your look from what everyone else is wearing.

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to shift — quite literally — how we walk and talk and feel. Having the right pair is essential, particularly for a kid walking into a new school year. So I asked my good friend and avid sneakerhead Chase Cheek to help me create a list of some of our top picks for shoes this school year. We’ve decided to break up our picks into three categories in order to help you find the best shoe for your style.

The categories are: Classic, Athletic, and Trendy.

Chase, before we get started, tell me a little bit about what you look for when you’re choosing a new pair of kicks to add to your collection.

Chase Cheek: Personally, it’s about the occasion. What am I buying these shoes for? It could be a day at school, a trip to the gym, or the classic “date night.”

Understanding the occasion is crucial. I think it’s key to “dress for the occasion,” and this applies to the shoe choice as well. I think shoes can make or break a great outfit.

Joe Hepler: I couldn’t agree more, Chase. Shoes are the centerpiece of any outfit, particularly when that outfit might be a drab school uniform. So let’s jump into the categories and share our picks for our favorite shoes going into this new school year.

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CLASSIC

TR E N DY

Chase’s Pick: Nike Air Force 1 Low

Chase’s Pick: Jordan Retro 1 OG

CHAMPS SPORTS – LAKELAND SQUARE MALL PRICE RANGE: $-$$

JIMMY JAZZ - LAKELAND SQUARE MALL PRICE RANGE: $$-$$$

These Nike classics are simple, well known, and comfortable, too.

Today, the oversized/Dad shoe is very fashionable. Great for Florida, the AF1 can be worn with shorts or jeans. The white-on-white colorway allows you to match any outfit and still look classy while doing so.

From the time of their release in 1985, the Jordan 1s have never taken a break. These shoes are trending lately and will forever be a staple in the sneaker world. The hi-top look allows you to wear them with chinos, rolled up denim from the local 5th & Hall, or paired with custom mid-calf socks from Oldskoolwear.

Joe’s Pick: Reebok Workout Plus

Joe’s Pick: Puma RS-X

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This is a nostalgia pick for me because Reeboks were insanely popular at my middle school in the mid-2000s for girls and guys, and I’m thrilled to see the Workout and Classic Reeboks making a comeback. Classic shoes always come back around. The “gum bottom” look on these kicks is a nice flourish 12-year-old Joe didn’t have on his, so now I definitely want to go back in time and bless myself with these.

I had two pairs of Pumas way back when, but I can guarantee they didn’t have the kind of heat as the Puma RS-X. Considering Rihanna and Jay-Z’s involvement with the brand over recent years and their splashy push back into the basketball-shoe game, expect Pumas to be the shoe your friends are jumping on six months from now.

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M E T R O

A C O N V E R S AT I O N W I T H

SID MASHBURN Core Wealth Advisors hosted a cocktail hour at their HQ for a talk and trunk show with Sid Mashburn, fashion designer and owner of the “Best Men’s Store in America,” according to GQ and Esquire. Mashburn sat down with local style icon Tim Cox to discuss the importance of dress in the modern age. From the Southern influence on fashion to essential items every man should have in his wardrobe, Mashburn shares a plethora of advice on all things men’s fashion.

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Tim Cox: Tell us a little bit about what began your journey into the fashion industry.

Sid Mashburn: That’s a great question, because it’s funny. At a super young age, I loved clothes, and you don’t really realize what the family pass-alongs are until later in life. My grandparents were merchants and retailers in a small agricultural community in Mississippi, and they had a furniture store, a hardware store, an implement store, and a dry-goods store.

Dry goods were essentially clothes. So I was kind of around fashion, but I wasn’t really conscious of it.

I had older siblings — they were all several years older than me — and they loved clothes. So we were always getting magazines at the house whether it was Seventeen, Glamour, or Vogue. I was always looking at women’s fashion magazines, and my brother was an excellent dresser.

Fashion was always around us. My dad liked to dress, my mom liked to dress; it was just something we did. We were never of huge means, but we never really lacked anything either. Even like in third and fourth grade, I was putting outfits together.

It was a little weird for some people, but that was just my deal. So, I was exposed to it by my siblings and the family business.

TC: Being from Mississippi and choosing to open your first shop in Atlanta, how do you think the South has inspired you — fashion, and maybe men’s wear, specifically?

SM: That’s an awesome question, because I don’t think people really understand the South’s contribution to fashion. It’s funny, because when we first opened the store, GQ wanted to do a party with us. Jim Moore, the GQ creative director at the time, said, “We’re not quite so magnanimous that we just want to celebrate you. We understand the power of Atlanta, of the South, and what it means to the voice of the nation.”

He also liked that I always wore color when I lived in New York. Most people in fashion, especially New York, wore black and gray. That was never my jam.

I think the South is a little lighter in its approach to fashion. It’s a little more of an expression of the heart. It’s not just about being cool, it’s about feeling good about what I’m wearing. The other thing

(Left Page and Above): Sid Mashburn and Tim Cox at the recent talk and trunk show. Masburn has been recognized for his work as a fashion designer by GQ and Esquire.

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“We want it to be more of a cultural crossroads, not just a place where guys come to buy the latest or the greatest clothes.”

Core Wealth Advisors hosted the cocktail hour at their headquarters located in downtown Lakeland.

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is, it’s hot for the majority of the year, so the color almost becomes part of your expression because your wardrobe is a bit more limited.

Growing up in an environment where clothes were appreciated was pretty great.

I went to Ole Miss where people dressed to the nines. I think the guys still wear a coat and tie to the game; maybe they don’t anymore. When I was there they definitely

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did. Just because we’re wearing a coat and tie doesn’t mean that we’re uptight, it’s just part of what we do. It should look and feel like you’re in jeans. That’s how comfortable my suit and tie are. I don’t see it as off-putting or too uptight, but I don’t want to look too much like a Sunday school teacher either. I want there to be a looseness and ease. I think that goes with the South, too. It’s not super crisp — it has a little bit of ease, similar to the personality of a lot of people down here.

I think one of the greatest lessons I learned when I opened my store was the idea of a good, better, best pricing strategy.

When people showed up at my store in Atlanta, I didn’t want them to come in and see all this expensive stuff that they couldn’t buy. There’s almost a sense of responsibility to the people that you grew up with to provide something for them, too. I don’t want them to be turned away at the door. I experienced this very early on from a guy who was a chicken farmer in Gainesville, Georgia. This was not your ordinary chicken farmer. He was a man of incredible means, very nice, very gracious, very humble, very low key. We had a very expensive designer line in the store at the time, and he came in and turned the tag over on a down vest that was about $1,800.

My stomach just dropped. I thought, “Why in the world do I have a $1,800 down vest in the store? Who really needs that?” It heightened the responsibility and privilege of taking care of everybody. So when we wrote the business plan, we said, no demographic — we’re for every man.

It’s not inexpensive — a lot of the product in there is not. It’s not attainable by

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a lot of people, but we have product in there that is. We want it to be more of a cultural crossroads, not just a place where guys come to buy the latest or the greatest clothes.

A large part of our business is the Southern hospitality. Anybody that walks in, we say, "Hug them with your eyes," because we can’t always get to them. We want to make them feel welcome. We don’t start with, “Hey, can I help you find something?” or “What are you looking for today?” We want them to feel like we are welcoming them into our home. The South doesn’t just affect the clothes; it affects the whole experience.

TC: What would you say to the guy who wants to dress better but doesn’t know where to start?

SM: Find a friend whose style you like that’s not too extreme or too ordinary, and just ask them. That’s one of the ways we want to show empathy to the guys and girls on our teams. We want to express that you can ask us for advice without feeling judged.

We want to be mindful of who that person is, not just from a style perspective, but also from a budget perspective. Everybody needs somebody to help them along. Guys are slow to ask — we don’t want to ask for directions; we will not ask for help.

Also, you can get a lot of great advice, but you have to be careful. You can’t just take any advice. You have to whittle through what to wear, when to wear it, how to wear it, and what to look for. The other thing is, when we buy, we like to buy with quality in mind and the idea that style should last a long time. For example, the cut of the suit that I’m wearing today is almost exactly the same cut we started with in 2007. It can stand the test of time. It’s not meant to have a moment. It has a longer lifespan.

TC: What’s the difference between style and fashion?

SM: Fashion comes and goes. Style is a little more long-lasting. The interesting thing about style is it doesn’t necessarily mean a person is well dressed, but there’s a unique style to the way they dress. For example, we have a good friend who lives in New York, who works for Ralph Lauren, and some people would say that all of his clothes are old and torn up. But he makes it look very cool. He’s got his own style.

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TC: What are three essentials every man should have in his closet?

SM: I have four: a navy blazer; jeans; gray, tropical-weight trousers; and a white shirt. The navy blazer allows you to go to any event. It’s a piece of utility apparel, and I can put everything in here. It’s a man’s purse. The jeans and the gray trousers, to me, are the same pants. They’ll go with everything. The gray trousers allow you to dress up the navy blazer. The jeans allow you to dress down the navy blazer. Also, the white shirt, you want it well cut.

The other important thing is to find a good tailor because you can take things that you bought at a thrift store, off of eBay, from anybody, and tailor them to you.

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

“Fashion comes and goes. Style is a little more longlasting.”

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M E T R O

GRIT AND BROTHERHOOD Written by Katherine Stanford

All about the Lakeland Lancers team and how the qualities, characteristics, and values that make up this local rugby team are evident on and off the field.

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Rugby is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, and the seven-player version of the game is now a part of the Olympics. There are around 500-1,000 teams across the nation, with about 60 in Florida alone. Lakeland is home to its own team, the Lakeland Lancers, which was established a few years ago. The Lakeland Lancers are the top union rugby team in Lakeland and are associated with the Florida Rugby Union.

The team plays year-round, both for fun and as a competition team, traveling all over Florida to compete. in tournaments.

The Lakeland Lancers are the top union rugby team in Lakeland and are associated with the Florida Rugby Union.

Jordan “JD” Arbuckle first started playing rugby while in high school. After moving to Lakeland to attend Florida Southern College, he discovered the Lakeland Lancers rugby team and began to play again. Since graduating from FSC, Arbuckle is now a digital consultant working out of Catapult and has been president of the Lakeland Lancers for the past three years.

When Arbuckle first joined the team, there were only four players, so playing games was tough since it is a seven-player game. During the first year, the four-person team had to bring on additional players to compete, and the team began to grow from there. Since then, the team has gained more than 20 new players, with recruiting going on throughout the year. During the fall, the Lakeland Lancers play against teams in Florida; then in the spring, they compete in games scheduled through the Florida Rugby Union. As of right now, the team plays only in Florida, but once they reach a certain skill level, the team will be able to compete in different states.

The team as a whole is made up of different groups, some include the Old Boys, the standard team, and a new youth team coming next summer. The Old Boys are players 35 years old and up who enjoy the sport and want to continue playing for fun, while the standard team competes in the tournaments. The youth team is a new program that will be in collaboration with Excel Church, and Arbuckle will be starting clinics with them later this fall.

The Lancers are open to adding players from all ages and backgrounds and take the time to teach you how to play, so no prior rugby playing experience is necessary.

Multiple players shared that joining the team helped them achieve their goal of playing the sport and that playing has been extremely valuable and gratifying.

“The Lakeland Lancers allowed me to fulfill a desire I had to play rugby since I was introduced to the sport back in 1991 while stationed in England,” says player Dan Francoeur.

“They’ve helped me in my experience

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The Lancers are made up of different groups, including their standard team and a new youth team coming next summer.

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to get better at a sport I had never played.

They’ve helped me get in better shape physically and boosted my morale,” says fellow player Triston Maxwell. Furthermore, many players have said that the team is like a second family that is there for them, and playing helps improve both their mental and physical wellness.

“For me, finding the Lakeland Lancers wasn’t just finding a hobby, but finding another family, a transformative routine of

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mental and physical wellness and passion that I can’t imagine giving up,” Stetson Glass shares.

In addition to playing games throughout the year, the Lakeland Lancers are also very involved in the community. The rugby team is sponsored by various local businesses, including Musick Roofing, TJ’s Tubs, and Swan Brewing. Through these sponsorships and the team’s own efforts, they are present at events in downtown Lakeland and Polk County. The team attends First Friday events and was a part of last year’s Christmas parade. Additionally, the Lakeland Lancers volunteered at the Polk County Special Olympics last year and plan to volunteer again this year.

The Lakeland Lancers are growing quickly, and the team is made up of professionals from a diverse number of industries. Many players have said that joining the team was a great decision and that the qualities, characteristics, and values that are developed while playing rugby are also applicable to other areas of their lives.

“Each and every person on that team, whether they realize it or not, is developing skills that they will be able to leverage for the rest of their life,” says player Steve Crowell.

The team’s core values include courage, responsibility, respect, and health.

According to Arbuckle, the team’s culture is positive, inclusive, and friendly. Everyone has a unique part when it comes to playing the game.

The Lakeland Lancers are passionate about gaining new players and being a part of the community. “Though the sport is phenomenal, the most amazing part is the community. No group has been so accepting or welcoming,” shares player Brooke Benham.

As a whole, the team has not only developed numerous skills, but team members have also been able to improve both their mental and physical health.

The team’s board of officers also provides players with the chance to develop leadership skills. These values have helped bring players from the community together to form a brotherhood that has grown both as a team and as individuals.

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MORE THAN A M AG A Z I N E SEV E N Y E A R S OF T HE L A K EL A N DER

Over the past seven years, a lot has changed in Lakeland and also within the pages of this magazine. We have had the privilege of telling the stories that make up our growing city, and the best part of it all – it only gets better with time.

BUILDING PRIDE OF P L AC E Before the first issue of The Lakelander ever hit stands, rarely did we come across the term “Lakelander.” Since that inaugural issue seven years ago, “Lakelander” has become present in our local vernacular, instilling pride in our local identity.

C E L E B R AT I N G THE MAKE RS, DOE RS, AND G IVE RS We’ve always been about celebrating the great people that make up our city and what specifically they’re doing to give back to it. Our annual Lakelander Made issue continues to highlight the influence of many local businesses while our first-ever Philanthropy issue inspired us by the giving spirit of our city.

DA I LY CONNECTION; TRUE I N F LU E N C E The launch of our digital content paved a new way for us to have a more consistent presence in Lakeland. Over the past year, we’ve been able to utilize our weekly newsletters to provide timely news, and our City Guide supports our city by providing readily-available recommendations from a trusted brand.

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TH E L A K E L A N D E R

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T H E

M I X O L O G I S T

A brief history on one of the world’s oldest and most iconic cocktails and a few recipes inspired by its enduring influence

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Written by Sam Hepler / Photography by Rob Christian Crosby

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SIN CYN 1 ounce cynar 1 ounce sweet vermouth 1 ounce Scotch whiskey 1 orange peel

The “Cyn” refers to cynar, an Italian bitter made from artichokes which falls into the amaro category. This calls for 1 ounce each of cynar, sweet vermouth, and your favorite Scotch whiskey. Pour ingredients into an icefilled mixing glass and stir gently until mixed.

Strain ingredients over a King Cube into a double rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist before serving.

The Old Fashioned has stood the test of time due to its simplicity.

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hat is more American than Sunday night football, hamburgers, and the Fourth of July?

The Old Fashioned: the quintessential American cocktail that has stood the test of time since its creation in the 1800s, bringing with it an air of mystery and folklore. Its extensive history has led to many variations of the Old Fashioned, accompanied by differing schools of thought on the proper way to serve the cocktail.

The cocktail has been seamlessly woven into American pop culture, especially in

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the iconic American Television series, Mad Men. After the cocktail’s numerous appearances on the show, New York bartenders noticed a “Mad Men effect” amongst their customers in 2013, where Old Fashioneds were being ordered almost every day. Like Mad Men, the Old Fashioned taps into the innate, almost indescribable, American desire for all things retro, the good old days, if you will, where the shorts were high-waisted, the parental supervision was nonexistent, and stylish cocktails were aplenty.

Although we can’t travel back in time and have a drink with Don Draper, we

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can continue to sip on Old Fashioneds at wood-paneled bars and cling tightly to the American dream.

We reached out to Jeannie Weaver, owner of Revival, a local downtown hotspot for all things cocktails, to learn more about the timeless drink. Weaver takes us back in time to learn about the mysterious history of the cocktail, her opinion on the proper way to serve an Old Fashioned, and a few recipes that have come out of the modern cocktail revival.

The Lakelander: What is the history behind the Old Fashioned, and why do you think it has stood the test of time?

Jeannie Weaver: Like any classic, the history of the Old Fashioned has multiple origin stories. They range from it being created at the famous Pendennis Club in Louisville and the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. I pride myself on my cocktail book collection, and after consulting with some of the books, I pieced together what I believe to be the closest version of the truth. The first mention of the Whiskey Cocktail, with specific clarification to the ingredients that modeled what we know as the “Old Fashioned,” was in 1806 in the Balance and Columbian Repository. The Whiskey Cocktail, as it was defined, was listed as “a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters.” By 1888, it had shown up in multiple cocktail publications, like Theodore Proulx’s The Bartender’s Manual, although in 1862 it was already labeled as an “old fashioned.” With that being said, variations of the drink go all the way back to 1833 with either brandy, rum, or genever as the base spirit because whiskey was considered too harsh.

I believe it has stood the test of time due to its simplicity. The drink has three ingredients and is easy to remember.

Usually it’s one of the first drinks you learn as a bartender, considering historically this was one of the top cocktails ordered at most institutions. With the growing bourbon movement over the past few years, the Old Fashioned has become fashionable again as the gateway drink for those who are interested in trying bourbon for the first time. At Revival, it has become the backbone of our business. From the time we’ve opened, it has consistently been one of our top-three sellers. We hold a high level of pride in the process of making it, and people trust us to make a proper one.

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TL: What is the proper way to serve an Old Fashioned?

JW: The Old Fashioned is controversial because there are two distinct sides: those who muddle the fruit and those who don’t.

I fall in the latter category. I believe the proper way to serve an Old Fashioned is to keep it as simple as possible (spirit, bitters, sugar stirred not muddled, an orange peel expressed and used as a garnish, and the drink is finally finished with a Luxardo cherry). The drink is meant to be very spirit forward which is why I skip the muddle and minimize the sugar. I believe you should be able to pick up the flavor profile of the chosen spirit (whiskey/bourbon/rye) without having to decipher whether it’s the sugar or fruit causing the taste.

Traditionally, it is served with a sugar cube muddled. At Revival we stray away from that for two reasons. First, plain granulated sugar has been bleached of all its flavor and complexity and doesn’t add anything other than a mild sweetness.

Second, we have our own syrup that was crafted to specifically fill the gaps in the drink. If you choose a bourbon with a really high proof, it will soften the burn without taking away from the flavor profile. If you’re adding something to the cocktail, it should either enhance or add some sort of complexity to it without taking away from the spirit itself. We tend to lean towards bourbon or rye with this classic recipe.

rye, just to be safe. If they have had an Old Fashioned before, I’ll point them to our menu which has every Old Fashioned possible (bourbon, rye, gin, rum, tequila, mezcal — fat-washed or chai-infused).

TL: What is your personal favorite twist on the Old Fashioned?

JW: My personal favorite twist on the Old Fashioned is our Gin Old Fashioned.

We use Waterloo Barrel-Aged Gin with a spiced apple bitters and cinnamon syrup which gives it a warm apple-pie taste.

When most people hear “gin,” they shy away from it. This particular gin has milder notes of juniper and has converted even our hardcore bourbon Old Fashioned drinkers.

Cinnamon and apple flavorings are as American as it gets, and the Old Fashioned is a drink most people feel comfortable with, so it allows them to step outside their comfort zone and try something new without being too risky.

TL: What is the best way to order an Old Fashioned for an entry-level cocktail consumer?

JW: I love this question because having an open dialogue with your bartender lends to a more enjoyable and memorable experience for both of you.

With any drink, I’ll ask what spirit they normally choose and how they prefer it (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, or umami) to gauge their palate. If that isn’t helpful, I’ll ask what kinds of food they like. With that information, I can usually pinpoint a few drinks that they would potentially enjoy. In the case of the Old Fashioned, most people just order the traditional, which prompts us to clarify what types of Old Fashioned they’ve had before. If they haven’t had one before, I usually steer them towards bourbon, or my favorite,

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RO B ROY 1.5 ounces Scotch whisky 1.5 ounces sweet vermouth 2 dashes of Angostura bitters Luxardo cherries In an ice-filled mixing glass, combine the Scotch whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Stir well and strain into a Nick and Nora glass. Garnish with Luxardo cherries.

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2 . N E G RON I

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3/4 ounce mezcal 3/4 ounce Green Chartreuse 3/4 ounce maraschino liqueur 1 lime

1 ounce gin 1 ounce campari 1 ounce sweet vermouth 1 orange peel

1 ounce rye whiskey 1 ounce campari 1 ounce sweet vermouth 1 Luxardo cherry

With the Negroni being the numberone “equal-parts cocktail,� the Last Word easily takes the second spot.

This is a reimagined expression of the cocktail which is usually made with gin. In an ice-filled cocktail shaker, combine 3/4 ounce each of mezcal, Green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. Shake well and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel.

Pour ingredients into a mixing glass and stir well. Strain into a double rocks glass over a King cube. Grab an orange and peel off the skin, removing it with as little of the pith as possible.

Squeeze the peel over the drink which expresses the oils and releases the aromatics from the orange.

Another famous Equal Parts Cocktail, with a modification. This typically calls for bourbon, but we exchange the bourbon for rye to add some spice.

Pour 1 ounce each of rye whiskey, campari, and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass and stir until combined.

Strain into a chilled Nick and Nora glass with a Luxardo cherry added as a garnish.

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P E O P L E

A FEW GOOD MEN Written by Priscilla Burr Photography by Daniel Barceló

Profiles of men leading the way in business, creativity, and kindness

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EMERSON BAMACA

Emerson Bamaca, a managing partner of Nineteen61, is determined to provide the best service, attention to detail, and bring something special through a cocktail that will change what Lakelanders are used to. As a local business owner, he never forgets to count his blessings and stresses the importance of a strong work ethic.

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“Growing up in a city like San Francisco and working in different high-end bars and restaurants, I wanted to bring a little of my knowledge and passion to Lakeland.

I felt committed to proving that we could have something special here in Lakeland,” says Emerson Bamaca.

As one of the managing partners of Nineteen61, Bamaca can often be found behind the bar, known as BAR61, of the recently opened restaurant in downtown Lakeland.

In his role, Bamaca is dedicated to providing great service, attention to detail, and making cocktails that make people feel “special and happy.”

Born in Guatemala City, Bamaca grew up in San Francisco, eventually moving to Lakeland four years ago.

“My wife grew up here in Lakeland, and when we had our daughter, it just made sense to make the move back ‘home.’”

Bamaca started his career as a bartender and went on to become a professional mixologist and bar consultant. “Getting involved with Marcos [Fernandez, executive chef] and Lindsay [J. Crowley, managing partner] has been a dream come true. We all share the same ideals and passion for the restaurant business. Marcos’ food is what makes Nineteen61 special, and by opening BAR61, I’m able to complement the business.”

Determination is what connects Bamaca to Lakeland. He is committed to supporting small businesses and integrating them into his bar program. “I believe that supporting others is what creates strong community. In my four years in Lakeland, I’ve been lucky enough to have met amazing people that have helped me in different ways, and I hope I can pay it forward,” he says.

When it comes to being a business owner in the community, Bamaca believes that being a man of character is someone who works hard for his dreams. “In today’s society, it’s hard, because people judge you based on your skin color, hair, or the way you talk. I strongly believe that a man of character is one who works hard for his dreams, accepts his mistakes, and moves on.”

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“A person of character has a fundamental understanding of who they are and how they relate to the people around them. Those core beliefs guide their decisions and interactions with others.

For me, that means seeking understanding between people and striving for fairness.”

– BARRY FRIEDMAN

Dedicated to providing impartial news for Lakeland, Barry Friedman, founder of LkldNow, incorporates his journalistic skills into his organization in order to inspire people to get involved in their local communities. To Friedman, being a man of integrity in his field involves seeking understanding between people and striving for fairness.

BARRY FRIEDMAN

In a world where journalism is ever-evolving, Barry Friedman is committed to providing a source for credible, impartial news and information. A community journalist, Friedman is often faced with the question of how journalism will survive at a time when the traditional business model for news is failing.

“We’re opting for a non-profit model here because we feel it telegraphs that our purpose is to inform readers rather than to please advertisers or generate a lot of traffic through clickbait,” he says.

With more than four decades of experience as a journalist, Friedman started working at The Ledger as city editor in the early 1980s, eventually moving to serve as a news editor, features editor, and managing editor of digital. During his 32 years there, he also developed theledger.com and helped oversee its growth.

Since transitioning out of The Ledger, Friedman founded LkldNow, an independent, community-driven news operation. He oversees the daily operation of the news site and its social media in a full-time volunteer role. “We are hyperfocused on Lakeland and efforts to make it a more livable city. As a non-profit, our mission is to educate people about Lakeland in order to get them more involved with the community.”

Beyond the news desk, Friedman has been involved in the Lakeland community through leadership of the parent-teacher organizations at Harrison School for the Arts and Dixieland Elementary School, in addition to having been an officer at Temple Emanuel in Lakeland and Congregation Beth Shalom in Winter Haven. He currently serves on the board of LkldLive.

When asked what it means to be a man of integrity in today’s world, Friedman says, “A person of character has a fundamental understanding of who they are and how they relate to the people around them. Those core beliefs guide their decisions and interactions with others. For me, that means seeking understanding between people and striving for fairness.”

Lifestyle entrepreneur Ray Allen envisions a metropolitan community with healthy people enjoying life together. His tenacity for building a better tomorrow is seen in everything he does — from his family, in his role in a multicultural affairs department at a university, and through his desire to understand the Lakeland community both past and present. He believes you can see what people value based on the way they live.

RAY ALLEN

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“In order to be a man of integrity, regardless of the height that you have reached, I think you have to be willing to lay titles and honors down and put them to the side for the sake of reaching someone else.” Describing himself as a student of life, Ray Allen shares the value of being disciplined to continue to learn, master, and grow in different areas of life. Allen also characterizes integrity as consistency through a relentless pursuit of honesty, character, and seeking what’s right over preference. This essence can be found in his mantra, “Purpose over Position.”

With more than 15 years of experience in higher education, Allen currently serves as the director of multicultural affairs of his alma mater, Southeastern University. “I love the fact that diversity is such a broad word because it gives me opportunities to make connections and build bridges that are necessary for our best future.”

In his early years of college, Allen got involved at the Dream Center where he saw “the opportunity to impact communities.” He now serves on the core team at United City, a nonprofit that works with churches and organizations to collaborate in order to create greater impact.

When Hurricane Irma hit Central Florida, Allen helped United City organize a collaboration across eight businesses to quickly mobilize and feed more than 5,000 people locally.

United City also organizes the National Day of Prayer at Lake Mirror in May and Q-Commons, a forum that hosts community conversations around local and national topics that impact culture. Allen leads Q-U which is geared toward conversations in university communities.

A love for Lakeland during a unique season in time is what keeps Allen and his family in Central Florida. “I think there is a lot of hope in the city of Lakeland because there is so much room to be creative, grow, and develop, but I know these prime opportunities couldn’t have happened without the generation that went before us.”

Whether it’s helping a person with the greatest need in a community, or serving the next generation of leaders, Allen believes it’s imperative to leave a legacy for the next generation. “We need more people building bridges and roadmaps for all of those to come. So then, at the end of our lifetime, we can look back and know that we have left something better than what we have experienced.”

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An entrepreneur and business owner of five local companies, Dennis Harrison finds fulfillment in serving others. He learned early on that success comes through hard work and determination.

Dedicating more than 25 years to men’s ministry, Harrison is passionate about mentoring the next generation of men and encouraging them to become men of integrity.

DENNIS HARRISON

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Dennis Harrison understands the value of commitment and determination. At the age of 12, he started his first job, pulling weeds on a flower-bulb farm. Growing up in Bartow, Harrison was raised by a single mother. He remembers his family struggling financially, not even having the luxury of an inside toilet.

Harrison started working after school to help provide for his family.

Following high school, he moved to Lakeland to pursue job opportunities.

“Little did I know that within a few decades Lakeland would become one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.,” he says.

Soon into working, Harrison realized that he wanted to be a business owner. At 22 years old, while employed by Sears, he started a drapery business. Two years later, in 1974, he purchased Drapery Center and also started another company, Central Workroom, where he created custom draperies for local decorators. That same year, he launched Sunshine Draperies, later renamed Sunshine Interiors.

His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. In the 1980s, he started Royal American Foods and Meadowfresh Milk Company, and launched a daycare center in Bartow known as Bartow Wee Care. His most recent business acquisition was in 2018 when he purchased the local franchise of Carefree Closets. “If you were to ask my secret to becoming a successful businessman, it’s because of commitment and determination, as well as God’s favor in great employees who always provide dedicated customer service.”

In the community, Harrison is highly involved with Victory Church in Lakeland. For the past 25 years, he has led a men’s ministry. He also serves with the Salvation Army on the advisory board and has been a member of Kiwanis since 1983. “Serving the community through involvement in worthy civic organizations brings me joy and a sense of purpose. It truly is my passion.”

Harrison shares the need for men of character in the world today — men whose words are reflected in their daily actions and lifestyles.

“As men of character, we are to be trustworthy in our relationships, our work, and in our community. Men of character will make a difference in our society today.”

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Which is why Nemours Children’s Specialty Care is conveniently located on the campus of Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center. By collaborating with Lakeland Regional Health, we are making it that much easier to access world-class pediatric expertise, right here in Lakeland.

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Design. Culture. It’s the interplay of these two words that keeps Sam Romero intrigued. An associate professor of art and design at Florida Southern College and an interdisciplinary artist, Romero currently focuses on creative content regarding branding and design. “I am specifically interested in how design and culture influence the way we think,” he says.

His passion for design and culture transcends into the classroom through introducing students and the local creative community to designers who inspire him. The presentations and workshops he holds with designers are open to the public. “I’ve been able to bring several amazing designers to Lakeland to present to my students and to the creative community. A few of these designers are Aaron Draplin, Nando Costa, Marisol Ortega, and Victor Melendez.”

A graduate of Florida Southern, Romero went on to earn his master’s in fine arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. His involvement in the Lakeland community has been through teaching at Florida Southern College, with some of his students staying local to pursue careers in design, marketing, and teaching.

Outside of the classroom, Romero is currently editing a documentary in addition to researching design histories. “I am starting to research design histories that have been ignored, specifically indigenous design narratives. This work is part of my academic and creative practice.”

Having lived in Lakeland for more than 15 years, Romero is inspired to invest his time into helping the local creative community. “I’ve also had the pleasure of speaking with many local creatives regarding their projects and ideas. I make it a point to help out when I can.”

With everything that he involves himself in, Romero sees being a man of integrity in today’s world and culture as “being respectful and empathetic.”

As a local professor and artist, Sam Romero’s interest lies in how design and culture influence the way people think. Using his experience as an artist and passion for design, Romero holds workshops and speaks with local creative communities. He sees being a man of integrity in today’s world as being respectful and empathetic.

SAM ROMERO

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CORY PETCOFF For Cory Petcoff, president of Baron Realty, faith is imperative to living a life of integrity. It’s what plays into everything he is committed to within the Lakeland community — from his investment in the future of the city, through the boards on which he serves, to his dedication to his family.

Cory Petcoff believes in creating a better future for the city of Lakeland through redevelopment projects in downtown and Dixieland. A native of Lakeland, Petcoff is the president of Baron Realty, a real estate company that has served Lakeland for more than 20 years. An established real estate professional, he works as a commercial real estate investor, broker, and property manager.

Petcoff’s investment in the community extends beyond his office and into the local organizations that he commits his time to through serving on a variety of boards. He currently serves on the boards of

Lakeland Economic Development Council, Lakeland Christian School, Lakeland Regional Health (the hospital where he was born), and the City of Lakeland CRA. Although he devotes a lot of his time to the city of Lakeland, Petcoff is most passionate about his faith and family. He and his family attend All Saints Episcopal Church.

Petcoff’s faith is what keeps him grounded. It’s also what he believes makes a man of integrity in today’s world. “I do not think the traits that define a man of character have changed at all over time,” says Petcoff as he refers to a passage

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found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke in the Bible. He shares that when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus responded with, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Jesus went on to say, “And a second is like it, love your neighbor as yourself.”

It’s these two commandments that Petcoff believes are paramount in a man of integrity in the world today. “Can you imagine if all of humanity embraced those two statements? They are easy to say, but much more difficult to live out.”

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K I N G S O F T H E S O U T H

Written and Styled by Abdiel Gonzalez Photography by Dan Austin Hair and Makeup by Naime De La Cruz and Kayla Judy of Venue Salon Models: Doug Rumsey and Jordan Ozerities of Benz Models; Abdiel Gonzalez

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ver the years, the definition of what a gentleman is and how he acts has slowly evolved with society’s ever-changing norms and roles. Starting as a way to define one’s rank and social status, then shifting to mean treating a lady with courtesy and respect, the term in the modern age simply refers to an attitude or a way in which a person conducts themselves. No specific

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region, gender, class; frankly a personality trait.

Call me old school, but one aspect of being a gentleman that will, or should, never change is the idea of chivalry. The very essence of chivalry is in the word gentle-man. Spending my formative adolescent years in the South, I’ve come to know the notion of chivalry as Southern charm.

That unique combination of crisp menswear, good manners, and the lasting gallantry to match is unmistakably southerly and

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makes a gentleman. It’s a meridional way of life, and we embrace it inside and out.

Using the colors of the fall season and the idea of what it means to be a modern gentleman in the South, I’ve compiled some key looks and ideas to help a gentleman dress his body for warm autumn evenings.

This fall season, we’re seeing shades of tan, beige, and olive take charge, with the usual dominant jewel tones being used minimally as pops of color.

blazer Zara chinos Zara camp collar shirt Nathan’s Men’s Store sunglasses Urban Appeal

The more relaxed silhouettes and layers of menswear from the ’90s are back in a big way for men.

Much like the evolution of the term gentleman, the blurred lines of menswear from that decade outlining who’s allowed to wear it or not continue to muddy on the modern runway.

In a direct parallel to the shifting idea of gentlemen, and menswear, the influence of dapper apparel and chivalrous culture has moved out of the country clubs and runways, and to the everyday Southerner on a casual Florida evening out.

polo Urban Appeal chinos Zara sneakers Urban Appeal glasses Tom Ford

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That unique combination of crisp menswear, good manners, and the lasting gallantry to match is unmistakably southerly and makes a gentleman.

blazer Nathan’s Men’s Store T-shirt Urban Appeal jeans 5th & Hall shoes Nathan’s Men’s Store watch Ted Baker

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camp collar shirt 5th & Hall chinos Nathan’s Men’s Store necklace Urban Appeal sandals Urban Outfitters

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polo Nathan’s Men’s Store trousers Nathan’s Men’s Store hat Nathan’s Men’s Store loafers ASOS

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blazer Nathan’s Men’s Store shirt Nathan’s Men’s Store trousers Zara boots Gucci

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GET INVOLVED TODAY

BID SIMPLE was designed to make your life just that, Simple. Gone are the days of endlessly comparing too many options and not finding exactly what you’re looking for. The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce is bringing you a fast an easy way to find the best person for your job at the best prices possible.

Go to BidSimpleOnline.com Enter your contact information, choose the category closest to the service you need

Bid Simple is a source of reputable, Licensed, and insured companies and individuals, that want to help you with whatever you are in the market for.

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Join the chamber today, email jlyons@lakelandchamber.com for more info I SS U E 52

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T-shirt Urban Appeal chinos Urban Appeal vest Nathan’s Men’s Store boots Nathan’s Men’s Store bracelets K. Scott Jewelry

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T H E CMUI LX TOUL ROE G I S T

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brotherhood, and country adventure for a group of local

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Written by Annalee Mutz Photography by Paul Bostrom

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F For a crew of young riders, most nights are now spent in front of a 47-inch laminated map of America, marking up highways with Sharpies while they plan a two-week trek from coast to coast. The crew spends time fantasizing about long rides across winding roads while feeling the rush of freedom journeying on their bikes crosscountry. They map out what roads they’ll take, discuss where they want to stop and visit, and what memories they envision making along the way. They’re planning a trip of a lifetime. But how did a group of young men decide to endeavor on such an adventure?

“We grew up on a farm,” says Preston Morter as he details his upbringing with his fellow rider and (literal) brother, Carson.

With more than six miles of farmland, the family had to cover a great deal of land while

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moving pasture to pasture to maintain their business based out of Oregon. “My dad didn’t believe in horses, so we always had dirt bikes growing up,” says Morter.

This would become the Morter brothers’ earliest and fondest memories of riding together. “It was kind of in the family.”

The Morter brothers’ grandpa was originally from Pennsylvania but made his way across America on an Indian motorcycle with his brother. “He was under 16, and he didn’t have a mom or dad. So they ended up West on this motorcycle and then just started working on farms as hired hands,” says Morter As the Morter brothers progressed past the farm, riding motorcycles became pretty secondary for the two of them.

They quickly learned how to ride motorcycles even before learning

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how to drive a car. “I remember Carson on his first one. He just pulled back on the gas and it went straight through my mom’s garden,” Morter jokingly recalls.

The boys eventually made their way to Lakeland to attend Southeastern University. It was there that a group of young college students slowly progressed into a bunch of friends purchasing bikes and eventually riding together.

For Morter, witnessing his brother Carson and friend Michael Mutz purchase and ride

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“THE OVERALL GOAL IS TO LOOK BACK, 40 YEARS DOWN THE ROAD, AND BE LIKE ‘YEAH, YOU REMEMBER THAT ONE TIME WE HAD NOTHING BUT THE ROAD AND EACH OTHER?” – ERIC HUGHES

Sons of Thunder were all friends prior to riding motorcycles together.

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their motorcycles piqued his interest. “I was inspired knowing Michael and Carson, and always wanted to get a motorcycle.” This interest continued to grow, either spurring others in their friend group to dive in with a purchase, or connecting one another with fellow riders with this common interest.

As the group grew, Morter began to think, “How dope would it be if we had this not even brotherhood or club or gang, but just this riding crew?”

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Preston Morter, Carson Morter, Jason Bervaldi, Eric Hughes, Drew Nanulaitta, and Dale Hansen all became a part of this riding crew.

Although friends to begin with, the bikes were what continued to deepen their existing brotherhood.

“I would say motorcycles didn’t bring us together. We were already close, but it was something that we found we could all do together,” says Morter.

“It’s weird because you can’t talk to each other [while riding].

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CBC 1261284

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The crew rides Harley-Davidson Sportsters, a line of motorcycles produced continuously since 1957.

But just the fact that you’re all just cruising as homies ... I don’t know how to explain it, but it brings you all closer together,” adds fellow rider Eric Hughes.

“Realistically, it’s pretty hard to find one thing that seven guys, specifically guys, want to do together,” adds Morter.

The crew soon became known as the “Sons of Thunder,” a name jokingly and impulsively coined by Morter one night while the crew was hanging out. “I remember reading [in the Bible] that Zebedee had two sons [ James and John]. They were referred to as ‘Sons of Thunder’ by Jesus. And, then, motorcycles are historically referred to as thunder horses in cowboy culture.” So after recounting both references, Morter proudly (yet hesitantly) proclaimed to his friends, “We’re the Sons of Thunder!”

Although a joke, the name quickly grew in popularity, and they became known amongst

their peers as the Sons of Thunder.

“We’re not bikers. That’s not our identity at all. We’re just guys who like bikes,” emphasizes Morter.

“I just love the feeling of riding,” says Hughes, as he recounts what inspired him to join his friends on their riding endeavors.

He recalls each ride as a time to quiet everything down and fully experience life around him.

“You’re feeling the air and it feels like you’re kind of flying. You can

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admire everything that’s around you more because you’re not closed in. Especially for long rides, I feel like it’s an escape.”

Morter agrees with these sentiments, also referring to rides as almost a forced sabbath. “I think it subconsciously takes away distractions, because you’re forced to focus on just one thing at a time.

In our culture, that’s kind of rare.”

One thing the group always wanted since the very beginning

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was to ride across America together. “Our goal is coast to coast, corner to corner,” says Morter. They plan on starting on the East Coast and heading all the way to Seattle, eventually shipping their bikes back from the Morters’ other family farm in Idaho. Planning for over two-anda-half years, the group is ready to finally start the trek next June.

Hughes says, “The overall goal is to look back 40 years down the road and be like, ‘Yeah, you remember that one time we had nothing but the road and each other?’” For him, this trip is an opportunity to challenge himself in a new way, slow down and appreciate the world around him, and create lifelong memories with his best friends. “I think it’s

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(Pictured Below, left to right): Drew Nanulaitta, Jason Bervaldi, Eric Hughes, Dale Hansen, Preston Morter, and Carson Morter

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“I THINK IT SUBCONSCIOUSLY JUST TAKES AWAY DISTRACTIONS BECAUSE YOU’RE FORCED TO FOCUS ON JUST ONE THING AT A TIME. IN OUR CULTURE, THAT’S KIND OF RARE.” – PRESTON MORTER

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important to ignore the hustle and bustle of life, and enjoy what’s right in front of you and around you. That’s big for me.”

Originally from the West Coast, Hughes also looks forward to a pit-stop at his hometown in Arizona. “It’s always a big thing to go home. But even better to stop by, say ‘Hi’ to Mom, and then say, ‘Hey! Just rode 2,000 miles.

Still got another thousand to go.

Thanks for the meal!’”

In addition to bonding across America, the ride is a pioneer trip of sorts for the Morter brothers as they follow their grandfather’s previous journey. “It’s really special because of our grandpa’s story and how we ended up on the West Coast. It was the courage

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to leave and not know what was going to happen. That was always inspirational,” says Morter.

For others in the group, they are in it for lifelong memories.

“Dale is really huge on being able to show his kids these photos and being like, ‘I was in Sons of Thunder,’” says Morter.

Whether trying to create the nostalgia for their kids or relive the lineage of their family, Sons of Thunder plans on taking the trip of a lifetime this upcoming summer. Best friends journeying across America together, leaving without knowing what’s next but still having the courage to go for it.

“Since the beginning, that’s been our inspiration,” says Morter.

To stay up-to-date on Sons of Thunder and their upcoming trip, follow them on Instagram @_sonsofthunder.

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THE WISH LIST R E C O M M E N D S

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M E N ’ S

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gifts and products for the man in your life.

From the practical to the extravagant — our team recommends

MOVIES AND OTHER THINGS BY SHEA SERRANO

This is Shea Serrano’s third book. I have purchased multiple copies of his first two books, and I pre-ordered my copy of MAOT the day it became available. The way Serrano manages to weave together pop culture, insightful information, and an absurd amount of humor is unparalleled. Also, Arturo Torres’ artwork makes this an excellent conversation piece for the coffee table.

— Joe Hepler $17.50 • amazon.com

THE BRASS FLASHLIGHT: MMR-X

THE BIGGER CARRY-ON: ALUMINUM EDITION FROM AWAY Whether it’s a weekend jaunt to Miami or a transatlantic European voyage, your choice of suitcase can make or break your trip. Cheap plastic wheels and faulty zippers quickly become more than a minor inconvenience when traveling, so choosing the right luggage is key. Known for being gadget-friendly, durable, and secure, Away has really cornered the market for quality and price. This aluminum edition will also wear dents and scratches well over time, telling the stories of your past escapades.

— Daniel Barceló

Having a small, powerful light in your truck or car is always helpful, plus it’s brass so this one scores you some cool points.

— Jason Stephens $198 • bestmadeco.com

$495 • awaytravel.com

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WILSON BURN 100S TENNIS RACKET I have long been a tennis enthusiast, and although I have quite a ways to go in becoming proficient at the sport, I definitely believe having the right equipment helps. For this recommendation, I consulted a good friend and fellow racqueteer, Paul Arbuthnot. He endorses this Wilson raquet because of its unique string pattern that increases top spin.

— Daniel Barceló

TIMEX + TODD SNYDER MARLIN WATCH The watch that “takes a licking and keeps on ticking” now looks better than ever. This special edition in collaboration with designer Todd Snyder elevates the timeless style of Timex with a bit of luxury. The best part is the price is still a steal.

— Daniel Barceló $199 • toddsnyder.com

$179 • wilson.com

1” BELT, CHOCOLATE OIL PULL-UP A quality leather belt close to the shade of your brown leather shoes. (It doesn’t have to be an exact match.)

A cool choice is one with a removable brass buckle; then you can change up the look by simply switching out the buckle. Pull-up leather is my favorite; it develops character marks over time.

— Tim Cox

MANDARINO DI AMALFI Since your scent is the one thing a stranger always remembers after a first encounter, make sure it’s a good one. Tom Ford’s private blend Mandarino Di Amalfi captures the calm of a warm summer evening with notes of citrus, mint, thyme, and wildflowers for a tonic-like effect.

— Abdiel Gonzalez

$95 • sidmashburn.com

$240 • tomford.com

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MASTER & DYNAMIC MW07

I wore my original titanium wedding ring for almost eight years and finally switched to a silicone band after my wife’s (of all people) convincing. I love it.

It’s comfortable, where I hardly notice it, and great for use outdoors (especially in a place like Lakeland). The pack comes with three versatile colors.

— Bryan Brown

Wireless earbuds are the new must-have tech accessory.

But before you end up with standard plastic white appendages emerging from your ears, we encourage you to consider an infinitely more stylish offering from Master & Dynamic. In addition to superior audio performance, the MW07s are beautifully designed and very lightweight, making them a great choice for extended wear. Choose from four gorgeous colors: Grey Terrazzo, Matte Black, Tortoiseshell, and Steel Blue.

— Daniel Barceló

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$299 • masterdynamic.com

RIN FIT SILICONE WEDDING RING

THE COUNTY

BY JAMES BRAND My dad has passed down several knives from his early life to me, and they each have their own character. The County by James Brand is a functional, low-profile knife that looks like it will only get better with time.

— Jason Stephens Starting at $150 • thejamesbrand.com

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EMERGENCIES ARE UNEXPECTED. BUT WE’VE GOT THE CARE YOU EXPECT. No one expects it. But in an emergency, count on the Winter Haven Hospital Emergency Department (ED) to be ready to care for you completely. From our highly trained, compassionate team members to the advanced technologies we use, we’re ready to treat your emergency with the personalized attention it deserves. And our ED was designed to be the most efficient it could be, including quiet, private rooms to make you as comfortable as possible. You can expect expert emergency care here. For more information: WHHEmergency.org

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TRAEGER IRONWOOD 650 PELLET GRILL This grill shot to the top of my “big ticket” wish list after I saw them in action for our feature on grilling. Traeger grills are the perfect blend of convenience and quality, making them an ideal gift for the grilling man in your life, regardless of skill level.

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BLUNDSTONE SUMMER BOOTS, STYLE 1497 I have the Blundstone Original 500 and wear them year-round regardless of the temperature, but they can get hot and are on the heavier side in the Florida summer.

The 1497s are a lower-profile boot and much more breathable, making them ideal for the Southern climate.

— Jason Stephens $169.95 • blundstone.com

CHACO MEN’S ZCLOUD SPORT SANDAL I visited the Smoky Mountains one summer, bought some Chacos, and never looked back. On a hike, to the beach, around town, tackling a house project, with jeans, in shorts, and more, I wear these shoes on a daily basis. Chacos have great durability, and one day, I’m confident they’ll catch on for Floridians.

— Bryan Brown $110 • chacos.com

THE STETSON BARILOCHE HAT I’m a hat guy. I would say that 75 percent of my time is spent with a hat on my head, but a ball cap isn’t always the right fit. The Bariloche by Stetson is a great-looking hat for those other times.

— Jason Stephens $328 • bestmadeco.com

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T A S T E

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Fire up the Grill

Written by Joe Hepler Photography by Jason Stephens Prop Styling by Lisa Malott

Master the art of grilling with these expert tips and tricks from our friends at Whiskey Bent BBQ Supply

From the time fire was first harnessed by people until now, few things have been more central to the human experience than grilling a piece of meat or a plant over an open flame. It’s a practice passed down to us through the centuries by our ancestors; a practice honed out of necessity, long before a person could find sustenance on every street corner or have it delivered to them in the comfort of their home. The ability to properly preserve and prepare food was pivotal to one’s survival. Eventually these culinary practices became defining cultural characteristics.

As a kid, I quickly surmised that what it means to be a man — or at least a redblooded American man — was the art of grilling. I watched as my dad made dinner out on the grill three or four times a week.

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Whiskey Bent BBQ offers an array of rubs and seasonings to elevate the grilling experience.

When I would go over to my friends’ houses for dinner, their dads could also be found out on the back patio with their music playing, a cold beverage in hand, and some sort of food going on the grill. Perhaps this wasn’t your experience. Regardless, it only takes a few commercial breaks during a sporting event or one walk past the Backyard & Outdoors section of a store to get the impression that grilling is something a man should be able to do and do well.

But here’s the rub (no pun intended): grilling was something I felt the innate pressure to be able to do, but I had no idea how to actually do it. What’s worse is that I was mortified at the idea of asking for advice from my friends who appeared to have

Reverse-Seared Tomhawk Ribeye

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figured it out by pure instincts alone. Instead I resorted to searching the internet for advice and started toiling away at my quest to become a man, one disappointing meal at a time.

For Chris Farina over at Whiskey Bent BBQ Supply, my experience with grilling is all too common. Farina, who also happens to be a lieutenant with the Lakeland Fire Department, works

part-time at Whiskey Bent.

I was able to spend time with him and his fellow Fire Department lieutenant and good friend, Dan Varner (yes, like the character from Forrest Gump and yes, he let me call him Lieutenant Dan) for a few hours while they grilled up the meals featured in this issue. While Farina and Varner were grilling the best steak and swordfish I have ever had, I was able to ask

Remove the steak from the fridge and allow it to rest.

Season with a 50/50 mix of Whiskey Bent BBQ Seasoning The Fix and The Grind. Allow it to rest another 10 minutes.

Set grill to 225 degrees F. and preheat. Place the steak on the grill and cook to an internal

temperature of 125 degrees F. Remove the steak and increase the grill temperature to high.

Place the steak on the grill once temperature is reached.

Sear each side for one to two minutes. Remove the steak and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.

Cut and serve.

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Farina about his experience with grilling and how guys like me can also take their grilling to the next level.

The Lakelander: With so many options and opinions out there on what type of equipment to use, how to prep your food, and then how to go about actually grilling it, where does someone even begin?

Chris Farina: Well, when people come into Whiskey Bent, we always say we don’t care what you cook on. Ever. You can cook on a gas grill, pellet grill, charcoal, or whatever. It doesn’t matter. We just want you to cook. Typically I just start by asking a person what they enjoy cooking, what they like to eat, and what their experience is. From there we can start walking you through what type of equipment we recommend, what type of rubs you might like, and so forth. Personally, what I recommend is that anyone who

The steak and swordfish were cooked on a Traeger, which is a pellet grill allowing for even heating making it easy to use.

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(Picture Above): Writer, Joe Hepler (left), interviewing Whiskey Bent’s Dan Varner (center) and Chris Farina (right)

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is really interested in learning how to grill sign up for one of our classes, because I could tell you how to cook anything, but we’d much rather give you an experience where we can actually show you.

The Lakelander: Starting out?

CF: The first thing we recommend is to learn meat temperature. Don’t worry about time or what type of grill to use; all of that can come later. Regardless of what you’re trying to cook, whether it be fish, brisket, chicken, or steak, every meat needs to be cooked to a certain temperature. Once you get

“If you want something fast, it’s easy to just do it on a gas grill or a pellet grill.” that down, you want to focus on what types of rubs and seasonings you’re using to flavor the meat. After that, then we can start to talk through what type of cook you want to be and find the type of grill that fits best with the way you want to cook.

Some guys want more simple and straightforward, others want to go slower and be

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

more involved while their food is cooking. If you can decide on what sort of approach you want to go for, we can help you find the grill that will best suit your needs.

The Lakelander: In a hurry vs. quick?

CF: If you want something fast, it’s easy to just do it on a gas grill or a pellet grill.

On a gas grill, you have to

Classic southern is always in season!

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Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Wrap five to six spears of asparagus in your choice of bacon. Season with Whiskey Bent BBQ “The Old Fashioned.” Cook at 400 degrees F. until the bacon is crisp. Baste with Tillman’s Apple Chipotle BBQ Sauce the last 5 minutes. Allow the sauce to become tacky.

Swordfish Remove the swordfish from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator, or purchase it fresh.

Season 50/50 with Whiskey Bent “The Fix” and “The Rocks” on both sides. Cook at 400 degrees F. until the fish reaches an internal temperature of at least 145.

Lemon Butter Caper Sauce 2 lemons 1 stick unsalted butter 8 ounces of heavy whipping cream One small jar of capers 1 tablespoon cornstarch Pinch of salt and pepper Squeeze the two lemons into a small pan to get fresh juice. Add the stick of unsalted butter and place on medium heat. Add whipping cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine ingredients. Add 2 spoonfuls of capers. Once ingredients are warm, add cornstarch, and bring to boil. Sauce will thicken.

Once thickened, remove, and serve with fish and asparagus.

The bacon-wrapped asparagus was seasoned with Whiskey Bent BBQ “The Old Fashioned” and basted with Tillman’s Apple Chipotle BBQ Sauce.

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After spending four hours with Farina and Varna, they had me convinced. They are passionate about grilling, and even more so, they’re passionate about helping people learn how to grill.

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“Our goal for anybody who walks in here is to be able to go home, and the next time you throw a party, you feel confident that whatever you’re grilling is going to be the best thing your friends have ever had.” really watch to make sure your temperature stays consistent, and be ready to flip it to make sure you don’t overcook one side.

With pellet grills, you can turn it on, set it to the temperature you want, throw a temperature probe in the meat, and walk away. If you have a lot of time to grill and you want to learn how to work the vents and how to control the temperature, get a Big Green Egg. Today we cooked our steak and swordfish on a Traeger,

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which is a pellet grill, and you saw how simple it was.

I tell people all the time, “I bet you $100 I can cook you the best steak you’ve ever had, and then I’ll bet you $1,000 I can teach you to cook the best steak you’ve ever had.”

After spending four hours with Farina and Varna, they had me convinced. They are passionate about grilling, and even more so, they’re passionate about helping people learn how to grill.

“Look, here at Whiskey Bent,” Farina says as we shake hands to depart, “our goal for anybody who walks in here is to be able to go home, and the next time you throw a party, you feel confident that whatever you’re grilling is going to be the best thing your friends have ever had.”

Sure enough, when I went home that evening I grilled up two top sirloin filets for my wife and myself (seasoned with “The Fix” and “The Grind,” two complimentary Whiskey Bent dry rubs). She took one bite and said, “Wow, you need to tell Chris and Dan this actually is the best steak you’ve ever made for us.”

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

If you’re interested in learning more on grilling, Whiskey Bent BBQ Supply offers classes listed on their website.

WHISKEY BENT BBQ SUPPLY 3230 South Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33803 863.940.2077 whiskeybentbbqsupply.com

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THE

SWINGING

PENDULUM

OF

FATHERHOOD

A practical discussion on work-life balance for a father

L I F E

Written by Bryan Brown • Photography by Jenna Neal

BILL MUTZ Mayor and Former Business Owner Married 42 years with 12 children ALONZO THOMPSON Assistant Principal of Administration Southwest Middle School Married 25 years with five children JASON BURNS Pastor Access Church, Owner Radiant Printing Married 15 years with three children JOSH “BUMP” GALLETTA Freelance Illustrator Married 17 years with two children

Illustrator. Assistant Principal. Coach.

Mayor. Pastor. Business Owner. All are important titles, and, in many social circles, what these four men are known and appreciated for. But, behind the scenes, they share a common title that exceeds all other labels: father.

Fatherhood is a gift and an honor. But fatherhood is also hard work, as it tests and shapes a man. All fathers have been there: the crossroads of feeling joy and fulfillment colliding with exhaustion and guilt. The joy of hearing about your child’s day at school and the desire to be more present at home, while the weight of work bears down on your back like a 500-pound gorilla.

The work-life balance drapes itself, at

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times, in busyness, clouding the vision for our lives to healthily invest in our families and embrace our God-given ability to work.

“Busyness is a lack of vision, and you need a vision for your life,” says Jason Burns, pastor of Access Church, owner of Radiant Printing, and father of three. A healthy vision brings about purpose and changes perspective and priorities. “Because I only have 24 hours in a day,” Burns says, “I have to cheat something, and I refuse to cheat my family.” In addition to being a pastor and business owner, Burns is also a doctoral student who starts most days at 4 a.m. — well before his children wake up and kick off the day. In short, he’d rather cheat himself for a season than cheat his family.

One influential force that encroaches on the limited hours within our day is technology. Unless you are Ron Swanson, you probably have a social media account, or, at a minimum, a smart phone.

Technology is powerful when you think about it, but that power comes with responsibility. With constant connectivity, it’s extremely important to strike a balance when it comes to our devices and media.

“Social media makes us feel like we have to catch that perfect moment,” states Josh “Bump” Galletta, a freelance illustrator and father of two. Even someone like Galletta, savvy with technology and social media, recognizes the threat that tech and media pose to a working father. “If you think about it, Amazon Prime messed up the

whole thing,” he says, referencing how we live in a quick-click, two-day shipping kind of world where we want it fast and flawless. But, especially with family life, not everything is so instant, accessible, and perfect. Rather, “It takes time and nurturing.”

Conversely, it requires patience and perspective, something that Alonzo Thompson picked up at a young age.

Thompson grew up fatherless and was raised by his grandmother. But he did not let his upbringing hinder his dreams or the vision for his family: married with five kids and a house.

Thompson lived out his dream and attributes that to his faith, stating that, without it, “I wouldn’t have had any guidance or direction.” Now a man with a family of his own, the Thompsons “always do everything together as a unit.” Every year they pick a date “where everything is shut down and it’s all about family and sharing moments. We’re not thinking about work or other stressors that are outside of the home.”

Enter Mayor Bill Mutz, perhaps one of Lakeland’s most famous and beloved dads.

Time is precious, and though it is limited to 24 hours a day, Mayor Mutz offers a unique solution.

“One of the things we can do is allow God to multiply our time,” Mayor Mutz gently presents, “and many times, in that, we simply need to ask for wisdom on what we ought to be doing as a dad.”

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While we strive for God’s provision and guidance, is work-life balance a myth?

Work-life balance is really more of a phase, not a state, and, according to Mayor Mutz, fathers “pass through a state of balance, like a pendulum swing, fluctuating from under-involved, to over-involved, to where it balances in the middle.”

Finding the balance in the swinging pendulum of fatherhood is both the issue and the goal. It’s one of life’s greatest conundrums. “I don’t know if I’ve ever felt balanced the more complicated life became,” says Mayor Mutz, “where I leave work feeling like I should have done more, and I leave home feeling like I should have done more.”

“It's hard to keep score at home,” says Burns. “At work you can measure progress and know how you’re doing through

“Always do everything together as a unit.”

– ALONZO THOMPSON

(Pictured Above): Alonzo Thompson with his family (left to right) Breiana, Alonzo, Tomeka (wife), Zaria, RaeChanze, Trevon, and Jaron.

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(Pictured Above): Josh "Bump" Galletta with his wife, Mary, and their daughter (left) Emmersyn and son (right) Fynn

“Social media makes us feel like we have to catch that perfect moment.”

– JOSH “BUMP” GALLETTA

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measurables: raises, performance bonuses, and more — you can literally measure your progress to see if you’re winning. At home, how do you know you’re winning?

Measuring success at home is not quantifiable, which makes it harder.”

Winning at work may take only a few hours or days to quantify, where winning at home may take months or even years. Regardless, it’s more qualitative at home, right?

Drawing boundaries, or, for the nature of this article, striking a balance, is especially hard when your office is at home. Consider Galletta, who went from being a youth pastor for 20 years to now being a freelance illustrator and having a home office. He says, “My work is literally at the house, and that’s been a major learning curve where I’ve chosen to implement benchmarks of what I want to get accomplished. I want and aim to be present when my kids come home from school. I don’t want to be trapped and for that to control my life.”

Mayor Mutz described how he “used to mentally put [his] briefcase in the triangular flower garden at the corner of Beacon and Lake Hollingsworth Drive” on his way home from work each day. “It was the point on the rest of the way home,” says Mayor Mutz, “where I functionally made a

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decision to start praying for my family and the evening together. After many years of this, I started to specifically pray for who God wanted me to make sure I spent time with that night.”

Noticeably, every single father speaks of intentionality. That’s what keeps the pendulum swinging in the right direction toward faith and family: intention in the way we listen, act, and pursue our family.

Don’t buy into the lie that things will slow down. The pendulum will always be swinging back and forth, requiring an intense focus.

For Thompson, fathers must be intentional by “being the image of what you want them to be, putting forth an example and having a model to follow.”

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Fathers must be intentional by being “predisposed to interruptions,” as Mayor Mutz says, “because most great ministry in life happens at the most inconvenient times — it’s a satanic reality.” Having a set of antennae up, which is not natural for most men who tend to compartmentalize, is extremely important when someone comes with a real issue in their eyes.

Fathers must be intentional by involving their kids in their lives rather than keeping them on the sidelines while pursuing a dream. “Family is we, not just me,” emphasizes Burns, “and as a pastor, I want my kids all up in my work.”

Fathers must be intentional to not let the win at work dominate family life; otherwise, it becomes a loss.

TH E L A K E L A N D E R

{Pictured Above): Jason Burns with his wife, Lis, and their three children (left to right) Joey, Ella, and Gavin

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“[Fathers] pass through a state of balance, like a pendulum swing, fluctuating from under-involved, to over-involved, to where it balances in the middle.”

– BILL MUTZ

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Begin with the end in mind. No, it’s not a morbid concept, but a practical reality of looking ahead with the past in mind. “When I’m 85, sitting in a rocking chair, reflecting on life, I hope to have minimized the number of regrets and maximized the amount of opportunities,” says Mayor Mutz. For the working father (and husband, for that matter), now is the time to consider the swinging pendulum in your life with the end in mind.

Where’s your pendulum? There is honor in both work and family life. Through a healthy perspective and boundaries, genuine intentionality, and a whole lot of grace, the swinging pendulum of fatherhood can be a beautiful thing.

Fathers must be intentional to listen well, a simple concept that practically every male seems to botch daily.

Husbands must be intentional with their wives, because, after all, healthy marriages often yield healthy children.

Galletta takes his wife on coffee and workout dates. Thompson takes his wife on a trip every February. Mayor Mutz prays daily with his wife. Burns constantly dates his wife (yes, it’s as simple as that).

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(Pictured Below): Bill and Pam Mutz on vacation in 2004 with their children (oldest to youngest) Cari, Jacob, Lori, Ozzie, Kelli, Michael, Eric, Mark, Kirsti, Stephen, and Emma.

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The Lakeland Lawn Bowling Club and its manicured bowling greens were located near what is now the Lake Mirror Center in Lakeland, Florida. The club was particularly popular with winter visitors to the city.

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Photo Courtesy of Special Collections, Lakeland Public Library

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H I S T O R Y

Cyrus Wolfson (standing center) and his sons Herbert (left), Jack (sitting), and Willy (standing right). Cyrus Wolfson came to Lakeland as a traveling salesman in 1910 and settled here, the first member of the Jewish faith to settle in the city. He went back to New York in 1912, married Frances Palestine, and returned with her to Lakeland. In 1920 he opened the Famous Department store in downtown Lakeland and it became the largest store in the city. He and Frances prospered and had four children together, but the Famous Department Store was forced to close during the Great Depression. Cyrus later managed a clothing store in nearby Plant City.

Date: Circa 1946 Photo courtesy of the Lakeland Public Library

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A healthy tomorrow begins today.

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