Today & Tonight Magazine

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

OUR NETWORK:

BayCare Behavioral Health • BayCare HomeCare • BayCare Laboratories • BayCare Medical Group BayCare Outpatient Imaging • BayCare Surgery Centers • BayCare Urgent Care OUR HOSPITALS:

Bartow Regional Medical Center • BayCare Alliant Hospital • Mease Countryside Hospital • Mease Dunedin Hospital • Morton Plant Hospital Morton Plant North Bay Hospital • St. Anthony’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital St. Joseph’s Hospital-North • St. Joseph’s Hospital-South • South Florida Baptist Hospital • Winter Haven Hospital • Winter Haven Women’s Hospital BAYCARE.ORG

19-778628-0619

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RP FUNDING CENTER PRESENTS:

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ONOMATOPOEIA on·o·mato·poe·ia: The naming of a thing or action by a vocal imitation of the sound associated with it (as buzz, hiss).

By Erica Smith

BITSY

Breathing “The importance of breathing need hardly be stressed. It provides the oxygen for the metabolic processes; literally, it supports the fires of life. But breath as “pneuma” is also the spirit or soul. We live in an ocean of air like fish in a body of water. By our breathing, we are attuned to our atmosphere. If we inhibit our breathing, we isolate ourselves from the medium in which we exist. In all Oriental and mystic philosophies, the breath holds the secret to the highest bliss.”

— Alexander Lowen, The Voice of the Body “At this moment, you are seamlessly flowing with the cosmos. There is no differenuce between your breathing and the breathing of the rain forest, between your bloodstream and the world’s rivers, between your bones and the chalk cliffs of Dover.”

— Deepak Chopra, The Book of Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Dimensions of Your Life I have to apologize for the absurdity of last month’s column. Written in a bit of a fever dream, the back pain I was experiencing was not caused by strain but instead was a symptom of a life threatening lung infection. A few short hours after submitting my column, I was admitted to the hospital with the diagnosis of pleural effusion and empyema. Ten days, two chest tubes, one surgery and many antibiotics later, my lungs have become the center of my universe.

On the average, an adult breathes between 21,600 and 23,040 times a day.

The respiratory control center at the base of our brain sends continuous signals down the spine and to the mus-

cles involved in the breathing process.

Unlike eating and drinking, breathing is unique as it is the only function you can perform consciously and unconsciously, as it is controlled by two sets of nerves, one belonging to the voluntary nervous system, the other to the autonomic system. Many religions believe life begins with the body’s first breath and in many languages – the words for spirit and breath are the same. The act of breathing in oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide is what keeps us human and sustains our life force.

It is Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 that teaches, “for everything there is a season, and a time for every a purpose under heaven.”

From my experience, spending 10 days in the hospital will have you reconsidering… well, everything. Questions like “how did I get here,” “why did this happen,” and “what did I do wrong” worm their way into your brain with each silent drop of meds. The opposite of a meditation, these questions become a mantra at night when the room is dark and your only company is the IV pole and your chest drainage unit.

With each breath, I want to thank the Baycare nurses and doctors whose wisdom and caring ushered me through this difficult season. It is with gratitude and humility that I breathe a little deeper each day.

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com

L KING FOR MORE!

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Bitsy is a orange and brown female Domestic Shorthair mix.

She is approximately 1 year, 8 months old. Bitsy is a sweet girl, she recently had a litter of kitten which came in with her, she’s very good with them, and loves attention, and play time. She is looking for her forever home.

FEATHER

Feather is a black and white female Chihuahua(Mix). She was born on Saturday, April 13, 2019 and is 2 months old. Feather is a happy little puppy who gets along well with everyone she meets. The person who surrendered her tried to keep her but was unable to keep her at his home.

SCARLET

Scarlet is a black and black female Domestic Shorthair mix.

She is approximately 10 months old. She is friendly, independent and laid back.She would make an amazing addition to your family!

ZOE

Zoe is a cream and black female German Shepherd Dog mix. She is approximately 5 years old.

She weighs about 48.5 lbs. She has been spayed. Zoe is super playful, sweet, and loves giving you kisses, she’s good around children and loves car rides. Zoe loves to meet new people and would make a great pet for your family!

The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227 Tuesday-Friday 11:30-6pm and Sat 10-4 pm.

Veterinarian of the Month When Loren Nations graduated from Winter Haven High School in 1981 his dreams of becoming an influential veterinarian in a big city would follow many paths.

After graduating from UF with his veterinary degree in 1991 he completed a medical and surgical internship at the Animal Medical Center in Manhattan, NY considered the Johns Hopkins of veterinary medicine. Instead of remaining in New York City he returned home to practice “big city” medicine with his mentor Dr. John Maxwell.

Dr. Nations’ desire to help animals and commitment to practice at the highest level led to specialty board certification in canine and feline practice, one of only 425 ABVP diplomats in the country and 27 in the state. With this expertise, the practice has flourished into a seven doctor 24 hour emergency and critical care hospital, specialty referral center, and general practice. Dr. Nations has devoted his life to creating a center that will improve our pet’s lives for years to come.

Dr. Nations The completion of a state-of-the-art 10,000 square foot veterinary center is only the beginning of the medical advancements Dr. Nations hopes to bring to Central Florida. “My life revolves around my family and animals. They are one and the same, that is who I am and why I am so passionate about being a veterinarian.”

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S T N E T N O C F O E L B A T

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­­­­­TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 15 Issue 1 July 2019 7

The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille

10 8 Bizarre Bar Facts 18 Polk’s Beloved Bartenders 28 Polk’s Beloved Bartenders

Honorable Mentions 32 Top 10 Bar Cocktails

8 Bizarre Bar Facts

COLUMNS: 5 On-o-mato-poe-ia 9

Tracey’s Tid Bits

9

Kitchen Diva

9

Now Here’s a Tip

10

31 What’s Rustling Jimmy’s Jimmies

LISTINGS: 12 Restaurant Spotlight 16 Local Live Music 21 Snap Shotz

18 Polk’s Beloved Bartenders

THE FUN & AMUSING: NA Will Be Back Next Month

The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille

We are extremely happy to celebrate another great year of fun stories, awesome photography, exciting events and tasty adventures. I would like to thank you for making us a part of your world each month!

This spectacular issue marks two important milestones – the 16th anniversary of our most anticipated annual feature – Polk’s Beloved Bartenders and our 15th year of publication.

The top 10 bartenders have emerged. We know the hospitality industry can often be a thankless profession and we want to commend Polk County’s valued service pros for their accomplishments.

The last 15 years have been a whirl wind of craziness and fun. We have scoured our county for food, fun and fabulous events. If you read T&T Magazine on a regular basis, you know that it keeps you in the know of what’s going on. Thank you for bringing us into your lives each month and we hope you continue to enjoy our publication.

As always, expect more, get more, we deliver.

Chris Douglas Publisher

STAFF PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:

CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE

COLUMNS TRACEY GREENE JAMES COULTER

ERICA SMITH

EDITORIAL

32

ERICA SMITH ELIZABETH MORRISEY

AMY SUMERLIN JAMES COULTER

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS

MIKE POTTHAST

SALES

Top 10 Bar Cocktails

26 Calendar of Events

EDITOR’S NOTE

TRACEY GREENE - VP of Advertising BOB CURTIS - Senior Executive Media Director MELANIE BROWN - Advertising Representative WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR NEW SALES REPS. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE SEND INFO TO TRACEY@TODAYANDONIGHT.COM

Tell Us What You Think

SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO: Today & Tonight Magazine, PO BOX 2612, Winter Haven, FL 33883 Email: chris@todayandtonight.com. Letters must be signed, please include your town and phone number.

ON THE COVER

Cover Model: Bartender Winner Ashley Horn Cover Photo By: Mike Potthast of Potthast Studios in Winter Haven

PUBLISHED BY: Today & Tonight, Inc. PO Box 2612 Winter Haven, FL 33883 Phone: 863.401.8001 email:chris@todayandtonight.com Reproduction in whole or in part of this magazine is prohibited without written ­­permission from Today & Tonight, Inc. Copyright, 2019 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.

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ON THE MENU

Bacon Double Cheeseburger served with Onion Rings.

THE TWISTED PROP

Great Food, Awesome Sunsets

By Amy Sumerlin Photos By Chris Douglas Rick Smith and his buddy, Chip Burton, had been talking about opening a business together. Chip is an entrepreneur and had been for years – he owned a Pinch a Penny in a neighboring county – but he shared a passion for food with Rick, who, with his wife Marcia, has owned Rick’s Bar-B-Q since 2011.

“On his days off, he would come and hang out and help me at the restaurant,” Rick remembered.

“JUST FELL INTO PLACE” On one of those days they were talking about what their new venture together could be, Marcia called the owners of the lakeside building that had once housed the Sand Dollar and then Idle Zone, since she knew that their restaurant had closed.

“We just took a chance and it all fell into place,” she explained.

Negotiations for the sale of the property didn’t take long – just about a week – but renovations on the property took quite a bit longer.

“We remodeled for about four months, “ Rick said, and Marcia added, “and absolutely could not have done it without our friends and family.”

Renovations were complete this Winter and the team opened the doors at The Twisted Prop February 7, 2019.

THE RESULT The Twisted Prop’s location, right on the Lake May waterfront, is darn close to being a landmark: Hubby and I had our second date at the old Sand Dollar, and we loved their food.

But trust me, we never went to the Sand Dollar for the décor.

Rick, Marcia, and Chip, however, knew that making the place look good was important, and they succeeded. The interior is now refreshed and represents the airy, light-hearted feel the owners were going after.

“We wanted to create a fun atmosphere for our customers – those who come by water or by land,” said Marcia.

Stop in for some of the best wings in town.

— Continued Page 8

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Fried Haddock Fish Sandwich with French Fries.

Food is served in red paper containers, a nod to Marcia’s favorite restaurant, Sarah’s, in Erie, PA. “It was a fun place to go,” she said, remembering with a smile.

As for the new name, the Smiths were quite proud when they told me that their son, Logan (who works alongside them at both The Twisted Prop and Rick’s BarB-Q), came up with the moniker. Chip’s daughter, Alicia, also works with the crew making it a true family venture.

A FUN MENU The group didn’t want to create a second barbecue restaurant, and so developed a menu that matched their favorite word – fun. (Side note – the world needs more people whose favorite word is fun.)

Hamburgers and wings are the stars of the show, alongside an impressively long “Starter” menu. For the burgers, topping choices are plentiful: Five different cheeses including the standard American and Cheddar or even Ghost Pepper for the adventurous eaters in your group. And because fun is the name of the game, they don’t stop there – for a buck each, you can add bacon or chili.

“Our hamburgers are always 100% Black Angus beef,” Rick explained.

Wings, too, come with a number of sauce choices, including all the standard heat variations of Buffalo sauce, plus Garlic Parmesan, Dry Rub Prop Sauce, or even Root Beer!

Just thinking about a cool drink and an appetizer to share? They have you covered with soft drinks, beer, wine, and sangria – and don’t forget about that long Starter menu I mentioned. Onions Rings and Cheese sticks start the list—but you’ll also find quite a few that you don’t see as often – Tator Kegs (with bacon, cheddar and chives, $7.95), Jalapeno Mac and Cheese Bites ($7.95), Kickin Corn Dip with Chips ($8.95) and then there’s one that I’m dying to try – Kandi’s Rings—fried banana peppers ($7.95) .

Next time you’re there, ask ‘em about how they got that name. It’s an inside joke with one of their customers, but maybe they’ll let you in on it…

Other options include a list of Sandwiches, Salads, and Wraps – and they’re on the lake – of course you can get fried or grilled fish sandwiches or wraps.

“All of our sauces and dressings are house made,“ Marcia added.

A DAY ON THE LAKE One Saturday not too long ago our awesome neighbors invited us to join them on their boat. After putting in at Lake Shipp and tooling around a bit, we worked up an appetite, and decided to give The Twisted Prop a try.

We pulled up to their dock – there is ample parking space for boats – and were greeted by the cheerful sounds of a band playing on the back patio.

8 JULY 2019

From the patio, enjoy sunsets and boats on the lake.

Before we ever stepped in the door, it was a win.

We were quickly seated and very impressed with how the inside looked. Better, we were greeted by our server and had a beer in our hand faster than I could have poured one myself – or so it seemed.

We started with the Buffalo Shrimp ($10.95), which is not surprising because anytime we go out to eat and that’s on the menu, it’s very soon on our table. It did not disappoint – shrimp were a nice size and the Buffalo sauce had just the right amount of kick.

Hubby and I decided to split an order of wings (20 wings for $19.95) and we again were pleased. As hubby is something of a wing connoisseur, trust me, that means a lot.

Someone in our group – I don’t remember who it was – ordered Fries to Share ($3.95) and they were delicious, crisp, and generous. Someone else ordered Onion Rings ($6.95), and I swear I would go back just for them.

Livini and Stewart both chose the hamburger ($5.95 or $6.95 with cheese) and gave it a thumbs-up. Their daughter, Carden, also picked a hamburger (the Twisted Burger, $5.95, includes fries or chips and a drink) from the Kids’ Menu—and she didn’t verbally give it a thumbs up… but the fact that her red paper container was empty spoke volumes. Kids are picky.

Looking for specials? Stop by on Wednesdays when wings are 80 cents each or any weekday, you can get a pitcher of beer and 10 wings for $15.99. Happy hour is Monday through Friday 2P to 7P, and you can get drafts for $2.50 and wines for $4.00. For July 4, the special will be 75 cent wings and $2 drafts all day.

Remember that band I mentioned? They have enter-

tainment every Saturday and Sunday afternoon.

JULY’S 4th 6th 7th 14th 20th 21st 27th 28th

SCHEDULE Rumor Hazit, 1-5PM JFK Band, 1:30-4:30PM Coastal Acoustic Barefoot Music, 2-5PM Oaklee, 1:30-4:30PM Nathan Baldwin, 2-5PM JFK Duo, 1:30-4:30PM Southern Blend, 2-6PM Bobby James, 1:30-4:30PM

“MARITIME” DELIVERY Rick and Marcia are boaters themselves and because of that, added one touch that they know they would have loved when out on the chain : “Call us from your boat and we will prepare it and walk it right out to the dock – you never have to get off the boat,” Rick said.

“I love the sunsets we get to see here,” Rick began.

“You just can’t beat them.”

So next time you’re on the chain or just driving around town, give The Twisted Prop a try. “Our customers come in as strangers and leave as friends,” Marcia explained.

FMI: The Twisted Prop, (863) 291-1937; 615 7th St. SW Winter Haven, FL 33881. Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11AM-9PM; Friday-Saturday, 11AM-10PM; Sunday, Noon to 8PM.

Fried Banana Pepper Rings with Ranch Dressing.

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King Features Weekly Service

September 7, 2015

to try a DIY washing machine mix, simply add some baking soda to the machine and use it for a little scrub action. Then add 2 cups of white vinegar and run on a hot cycle with no clothes.

a Ever think that jeans and pants take up way too much space folded in drawers? Y.R. from Washington says that to save space, she hangs her pants and jeans on S hooks in her closet.

“When moving, use foam plates a•“Every time I cook bacon in a frying pan

ROASTED VEGETABLE

Fiery Hot Sauce CROUSTADE Adjust the heat and spiciness of the Roast hot sauce removing the interior To the by Vegetables: membrane the pepper and using 1 cupofolive oil, divided some or all of the seeds along with 3 red potatoes, scrubbed andthe flesh. Doquartered not touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth whensquash, handlingsliced hot peppers.

2 yellow into Be sure to wear rubber slices gloves, or wash 1/2-inch-thick your thoroughly after chopping 10 hands Brussels sprouts, halved hot 4peppers. green onions, root ends

removed

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 large carrot, cut into 1/2-inch 1 large yellow onion, sliced pieces 2 teaspoons salt 2 celery roots, peeled,diced trimmed 2 large Jalapeno peppers, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 medium chile peppers, such as 1 large head of garlic, separatpoblano, New Mexico or Anaheim ed into cloves, smashed 2-4 habanero peppers, or otherand small hot chilepeeled peppers, stemmed, halved and 1 teaspoon salt seeded teaspoon 41cloves garlic, black peeledpepper and diced tablespoons Italian 12large carrot, tip and rootseasoning end re-

1/4 teaspoon sugar SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY 1. Heat the oven to 400 F. Pour 1/2 cup of the olive oil on a large sheet pan or jelly-roll pan, 15 1/2 by 10 1/2

Florida is H-O-T!

This month I decided to use my space as a P.S.A. for the heat we’ve been experiencing in the state. Yes, we know that we live in the “Sunshine” state but with that comes a lot of responsibility – for youra “My chargers and cables always end up selves, family and pets. tangled and messy looking. My problem was Since we did not have much of a winter completely solved when I took a few binder clips and threaded the cords though the metal season it only led to the conclusion – at ‘wings,’ which help them stay put. Now I keep least in my mind, that we were going to a cord by my bedside table and my desk so it’s have a Hellaciously Hot Summer! And, we convenient to charge wherever I am sitting.” are.

-- F.C. in North Carolin Keeping hydrated. This is very important. If you already drink a lot of water, great – drink a little more. If you do not, the remaining olive oil-flavored moved, chopped1/2 cup of oil, the ter-findora way to get more water incooking your body. potatoes, squash, Brussels spray, spray shallow, round 1 (28-ounce) can fire roastedsprouts, diced Add lightly some fresh fruitainto your water like green onions, carrot, celery roots, casserole dish or or a round baking tomatoes berries or citrus a couple squirtsdish. of the flavor enhancers like “Mio”. You needorit garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning Place sheets of parchment paper 1-3 teaspoons sugar or stevia before you feel thirsty.

I keep a big insuand1 cup sugar until the vegetables are pieces of foil inside bowl with strips distilled white vinegar or apple lated cup full of water at allthe times coated.

Carefully place vegetables on overlapping the edgeswith to me make cider vinegar – sipping easier on it allto day.

Water is Lightly our most the heated pan and roast for 15 to 20 croustade remove. precious commodity. It is, after all, the gift minutes, once after 10 min- spray 1. Heatstirring the oil in a large saucepan the parchment or foil. of life… over Allow medium-high heat.toAdd thebefore onions 3. Place pastry in casserole dish or utes. vegetables cool Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Hats, oh my! and salt,with andthe cook forcream 3-5 minutes mixing tofu filling.until baking dishAnd, with overYes. Yes. Yes!pastry This is edges your first prothe onions begin to soften. Add the lapping the sides.

Mound vegetable tection from the sun beating down on your To Make the Tofu Cream Filling: peppers, garlic and carrots. Cook, stircream-cheese mixture in blinding center your of skin, frying your brain and 1 until container (4 begins ounces) ring, the onion to light brown, theeyes. pastry.

Leaving an opening in the I keep my sunglasses on a shelf on whipped cream cheese about 3-4 minutes.

(Note: This should the way to the door.

Extra around bottles of center, fold thefront pastry edges 4 ounces soft, silken tofu, area! thesunscreen hand at all timesunder is a must be done in a very well-ventilated filling, on crimping edges to drained in my household. Ask my friends, I am The fumes from the cooking peppers form a bowl.

1/2strong, cupso Parmesan cheese “pusher”…While protecting are do not lean over the pot Intheasunscreen small bowl, mix together egg 1/2 cup light your skin from the sun, it also helps keep or you may inhalemayonnaise the acrid steam.) and water to make an egg wash. Brush you cooler. And hats are the easiest way to 1 Reduce tablespoon seasoning 2. heat toItalian medium.

Add in pastry with egg mixture. Bake the help protect your face, neck and shoulders 1/2 teaspoon salt the tomatoes and sugar or stevia. Bring croustade 20 to 30 minutes or until from harsh weather.

1/2 teaspoon mixture to a boil. black Then, pepper lower heat to Kids and Pets Should NEVER be left in medium. Continue to cook, stirring a parked car! NEVER EVER! Right now, occasionally, until tomatoes begin to the heat index is so severe that cracked break down, about 15 to 20 minutes. windows WILL NOT HELP. The tem3. Remove from heat and allow peratures in a parked car are suffocating and at least 10 degrees hotter than outside mixture to steep until it comes to room temperatures. By the way, in Florida, if temperature. Carefully transfer the you ever see a child or pet in distress in a pepper mixture to a food processor locked car and break the windows to save or blender. (Use caution when pureethem from this harm, you are not liable for ing hot ingredients.) If you’re using a the damage. As you are saving a life… blender, place the lid on loosely and Kids playing outside. Yes, they need cover it with a dish cloth to allow any to be outside playing. However, mornsteam to escape. Puree the mixture for ing time and early evening are the best 15 seconds. With the food processor or times – staying away from the 12 to 2 pm blender running, add the vinegar in a times. Monitoring the kids and having steady stream through the feed tube or them take “water” breaks inside is a way the opening in the lid. to help them from not overheating in the sun. Kids are at risk of heat exhaustion 4. Puree until smooth. Set a fineand heatstrokes, simply due to the fact of mesh sieve over a medium bowl; pour not understanding that they need drink the pureed mixture through the sieve, Philto Curry water, stay in the shade, not over-exert gently pushing on the solids with a themselves in the heat of the day – because, wooden extractmix all thetogethliquid.

In a spoon large tobowl, thewell, pastry golden brown.

Toadults serve,need theyisare kids! This is why (Discard solids.) Let the sauce cooltofu, to er the whipped cream cheese, allow to attention cool foras10 Using to pay wellminutes. as know the signs room temperature, about 1Italian 1/2 hours.

Parmesan, mayonnaise, sea- a of spatula, loosen fatigue, croustade possible gently heat exhaustion: nauTaste and with more if soning, saltseason and pepper untilsalt, smooth. sea,the extreme sweating and pale skin.the And, from baking dish or pan using necessary. heatstroke: high body temperature above Refrigerate for 30 minutes to blend sheets of parchment or foil to help 5. Transfer thecooled, hot sauce to a steril106 degrees, and slurred flavors.

Mix the roasted vege- move it on tochills a serving dish.speech.

Serve ized glass bottle filling and secure your pets outside. tables withpint the jar tofuorcream until warmWalking or at room temperature.This is a great and should be done daily. However, with an airtight lid. Refrigerate. The hot well-blended. don’t walk your dogs *** in the heat of the sauce tastes best when aged for at least day. Pets can suffer heats strokes, too.

To Make Croustade: 7-10 days.the Shake the bottle to recombine Angela Medearis is water an Make sureShelf they have plenty of fresh sheet frozen puffCan pastry, the1liquid before using. be stored award-winning children’s author, and shade – better yet, don’t leave them thawed for up to 6 months. in the refrigerator

culinary historian and the author of five cookbooks. Her latest cook1 tablespoon water book, “The New African-American EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM 1. Thaw pastry sheet at room tem- Kitchen,” is in bookstores now. She’s perature for 40 minutes. The oven known as The Kitchen Diva and is should already be heated to 400 F if the executive producer and host of 1 1egg Makes pint.

outside at all! AND, you need to test the pavement before letting your dog(s) walk on it. To test: place the back of your hand against the pavement, if you CAN NOT hold it there for 5 seconds then the dog should not be walking on it because it will burn the bottom of their feet. (This also goes for the idiots that drive around with their dogs in the back of their trucks. It’s too hot for them. How about you take your clothes and shoes off, jump in the back of a (metal) truck in Florida and be made to stand on it while being tossed around as the truck moves down the road. I bet it feels really great when the truck comes to a stop at a traffic light and the sun is beating down. OUCH!) If you think you pet is having a heatstroke, place them on a cool surface and put a cool (NOT cold) wet towel on them to help lower their body temperature, especially the head and neck area – then call your vet ASAP! Try to get them to drink water without forcing them. Signs include: Panting (it increases as the heatstroke progresses), drooling, restlessness, bright red tongue, very red or pale gums, increased heart rate, breathing distress, vomiting, diarrhea, uncoordinated, collapsing.

The elderly was also very susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Many do not realize that their homes are too hot or possibly cannot afford to run their AC enough to cool their homes. Keep tabs on the elderly, making sure they have proper fluids to drink and they stay out of the hot sun – don’t work in the yard during peak hours, wear proper clothing to stay cool.

We must protect our seniors.

AC running constantly: yes, it’s trying to keep up on cooling the house. With the heat index rising, some struggle to keep up. If your unit is undersized for your home it puts a lot of stress on the unit and could cause it to freeze up – this could be another reason the AC keeps running.

Make sure that you change your air filters every 60-90 days. It may also be time for an AC tune-up to make sure it can handle the extra stress we are putting on it to keep our homes cool during this peak hot season. The U.S. Department of Energy also recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you are at home to help avoid unusually high electric bills and to also allow you to stay cool. When you leave the house bump it up to 80 degrees to help save.

King Features Weekly Service

Croustade Will Tempt Even Non-Vegetarians

shapes for special occasions or to spice up everyday breakfast? Use metal cookie cutters to easily achieve super-fun shapes. Simply spray pan and inside of the cookie cutter with a nonstick cooking spray and slowly add batter to the inside. Use tongs to flip when stable.

By Tracey Greene

October 3, 2016

as separators for your dinner plates. it’s always a greasy mess. My roommate totally Use kitchen towels to wrap serving blew my mind when she put hers in the oven. platters. If you have a box that sepaTry it out at 400 F and be astonished. No mess!” glasses, --rates P.A. in Floridadrop a spice jar into each glass. Use all the space, and you’ll have fewer boxes to move.” — P.L. in a If your clothes or towels have a musty odor, South Carolina it might be time to give your washing ma• To remove The stubborn chine a freshener. inside ofhard-water your washer is deposits a which shower (withoften wet orfrom damp, canhead lead to mildew out removing it), useasthis buildup in the machine well trick: as the Add hoses. a cup of plain white vinegar a zipFront-loading machines may havetomildew per-topon sandwich bag (or are a larger bag you buildup the gasket.

There products with added vinegar to fit larger showcan buy for just this purpose, but if you want erheads). Submerge the shower head in the vinegar and draw the plastic bag up tightly around the stem. Use a rubber band to secure the bag around the shower head. Leave overnight.

Remove, scrub and shower to release the deposits.

• Borax can be used to keep sidewalks free of weeds. Simply sprinkle a little Borax on the sidewalk and sweep into the cracks. This is a very effective weed killer, but it also will kill your grass if you use too much, so keep it in the cracks only!

• “Have a stripped screw? Place a THINGS wideLET’S rubber HEAT band over the headUP! and insert your drill. The rubber band fills to the perfect hot sauce in The the trick stripped spots and makes the is using a combination peppers drill catch the screw. Itofworks mostwith of Ibalance love talk food. me, time.”to —sweetness, D.D. about in Nebraska athe of fruit andTo heat. food is the universal common denomPeppers likeaudio the Caribbean Red Pepper • “Make recordings or short and Scotch Bonnets will add heattotoeat. the inator, because everyone has videos of you reading your children’s favorite books, then play for mouth them sauce that will make your Ihot love talking with strangers about when you busy doing housework, water, yourare ears pop andas body tem- or the foods they loved a child, workingthey or cooking.”

K.A. in because Ore-types perature rise.

Combining different recipes like to — prepare, ofgon peppers with like of carrots those stories arevegetables often some their • If you have a sticky zipper, try runwill add sweet, fruity and flavorful happiest memories and a window into ning culture. atocandle along the zipper face, notes your homemade hot sauce. their then zipping itcomputer up and down a few Using your or supplies My special Roasted Vegetable times. from the arts and crafts create a Croustade recipe is a store, crowd-pleaser.

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TID BITS TRACEY’S

For more sun safety tips check out: https://www.redcross.org/local/dakotas/ about-us/news-and-events/news/ten-tipsfor-staying-safe-in-the-summer-heat.html https://acl.gov/news-and-events/ announcements/it-hot-summer-year-tipsstay-safe https://www.nationwide.com/ extreme-heat.jsp

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS info@todayandtonight.com JULY 2019

9

8

In honor of our Beloved Bartender Issue, here are eight bizarre facts about bars. Feel free to brag about them to you bar mates the next time you binge a few brews at your favorite bar.

By James Coulter

BIZZARE BAR FACTS LS OCKTAI

cktail’ word ‘co e h t e r e ridered wh just say that its o n o w r e v E et’s d d from? L its name. The wor originate s a er in s ‘cocky’ newspap h is gins are a it r B to a gined in a was coin ord itself referred w al used 1798. The named after a ritu uld so wo of ginger , and was sure ger drink g a horse. A piece end to en in r a y e u r b ’s n e e s r wh tail shot ’s to the ho e s in r d o e h t r e e ly ” If th be ins it certain real deal. ’, e d h e t “ k c s o a it w ame ‘c iritht, or bec as considered ‘sp ig a r t s p u lw l image he anima at menta h t g was, as t in k fun drin ed.’ Have ur head! out of yo

1

Y G COCK GETTIN

ABOUT

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2

DRINK OF THE LIVING DEAD

Looking to get really hammered?

Even at the risk of feeling like the living dead in the morning? Then test your luck with “The Zombie.” Made from three types of rum (40 percent alcohol by volume), Penrod (40 percent ABV) and Angostura bitters (44.7 percent ABV), it’s considered one of the most alcoholic cocktails. This cocktail was created in the 1930s by Don “The Beachcomber” Beach, inventor of cocktails such as the Mai Tai. His restaurants would limit customers to only two Zombies, as they were considered so potent that they made even the heaviest of heavy-weight feel like “the walking dead” after one drink. So there’s a good chance drinking more than two of these would not only make you feel like the living dead, but actually make you dead.

3

DEATH PENALTY FOR DRUNK DRIVERS

If you’ve ever stumbled out of the bar drunk, consider yourself lucky that you live in the United States. Many countries have strict laws about drinking. In the United Kingdom, it’s illegal to get drunk in a club or pub. If you think that’s bad, don’t drink and drive in El Salvador. There drunk driving, even on the first offense, is punishable by death by firing squad. So if you ever visit that country, make sure you have a designated driver!

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ist. mixolog r e t s a sam t he THE FA leason i nks, bu e i r G d ” t G s “ e t th he b Bobby makes t . In 2004, he se ing, y l n o t t o ix es He n the fast stest cocktail m m e h t fa es. makes for the 0 minut d 6 r o n i c e s r l i ta world y G is a b 53 cock b 2 o d B e . x e i t s, as he m tails per minu restigious title ost er p cock ut four olds oth the “World’s M o h b o a h s ’ t w Tha ing self one nto him arded for mak agazine. Some u d n e g le aw em g being enthous honor. includin Cocktail” by P a drink in his s es Sensuou rtainly deserv e c t like tha

4

DRINK STEST

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5

6

ar? utEver w longest b n.” Located in P ’s ld r o w Saloo loon at the er Barrel nd, Ohio, this sa e B “ o t r ove s Isla anent outh Bas est perm nd S g , n y a lo B ’s in orld eet a to the w res 405 f u s a e m is home has bar itself r taps, it e e e h b t , 6 9 5 8 and ch a t in 19 bar stools le. Obviously, su ou bar. Buil 0 6 1 h it s. W 00 peop at least y ,2 t 1 u f 10 inche b o , y y s it u capac per b long as a seating us bar will be su ing a bar tab as av mo world-fa to worry about h ve don’t ha self! it the bar

DRINKS ON THE ROCK

What could be better than a drink on the rocks?

How about having a drink on a rock in the middle of the ocean? You can do just that at The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar. This scenic bar stands isolated atop a rocky island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. During high tide, you can reach the place by boat; and at low tide, you can walk to it along the sandbar.

Once you ascend the rickety wooden stairs to the lone wooden hut, you can seat yourself at one of 12 tables and enjoy a seafood meal or cocktail or both. The prices are pricey, but the ocean view is priceless!

8

DEAD MAN’S CH AIR

If you ever visit th e Busby Stoop Inn in the U nited Kingdom, feel free to pull up any chair. But there’s one chair you shou ld never sit in. That’s because anyone who ever sat in it always ended up dead. Known as “D ead Man’s Chair”, it’s alleged to have been cursed by a murderer named Bubsy who sat in the chair prior to his hanging in 1709 . Since then, anyone who sat it in allegedly ends up dying shortly afterward. Dur ing WWII, many ai rmen from a nearby base who took a seat in it di d not come back from the war aliv e. So many deaths were attributed to the chair that it was donated to th e local Thirsk Museum, where it hangs from the ce iling to prevent anyone from sittin g in it ever again.

7

“PAGING DOCTOR BARTENDER.”

Perhaps you have been fortunate enough to not become drunk enough to be rushed to the hospital. However, in the slim chance that you’ve ever wanted to get drunk at a hospital, there’s a bar in Singapore that will allow you to do just that. The Clinic Bar allows guests to have a drink in a hospital-themed setting and take a seat in wheelchairs, dentist chairs, and even hospital beds. This setting may sound sickly, but at least you can always be wheeled out if you feel you’ve had too much to drink.

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POLK COUNTY’S

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT To Have Your Restaurant Listed Please Email Info@todayandtonight.com

HAINES CITY BALMORAL BAR & GRILL AT BALMORAL RESORT

Offering a casual dining environment complete with poolside outdoor seating, the Balmoral Bar & Grill serves up poolside lunches, afternoon drinks and evening meals. Popular among resort guests and locals alike, our poolside bar in Haines City offers a full bar with TVs and features a menu of shareable appetizers, fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, and more. Live music also offered on the patio most Saturday nights. Check our Facebook for schedule. Bar & Grill is open to the public and is located within Balmoral Resort Florida in Haines City, minutes from Winter Haven and Davenport.

Must Try: Flatbreads and Club Sandwich.

124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City (off Hwy 27) (863) 588-3097 • BalmoralBarandGrill.com

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Polk County’s largest family sports pub. Happy Hour M- Sat. 4pm to 7pm. 2-4-1 cocktails all day everyday. See Website for full menu. Kids eat free Tuesdays.

Must Try: Blackened Dry Rub Wings 902 Old Polk City Rd. 863-419-4848 www.beefobradys.com

LAKELAND BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S NORTH LAKELAND

Lakeland’s Best Family Sports Pub. 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Gameplan Saturdays. Happy Hour 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday. Bingo Mondays from 5-6 pm. Kids Eat Free Wednesday from 4-8 pm. Trivia Night on Thursdays from 8-10 pm.

Must Try: Hot & Fresh Fajitas - Everyday!

Chicken wings!

1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 www.beefobradys.com

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH LAKELAND

Great Food! Great Sports! Great Family Fun! 40+ HD TV’s, NFL Ticket Sundays, NCAA Game Plan Saturdays. 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday.

Coldest Beer In Town. Kids Eat Free Tuesdays & Sundays 4-8 pm. Now Featuring A Full Liquor Bar. Must Try: Our Delicious Fajitas and Awesome Burgers 4810 South Florida Ave (863) 646-7757 www.beefobradys.com

12 JULY 2019

CHAMPINO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR

WINTER HAVEN

Authentic homemade Italian cooking. Fresh, made to order meals for lunch and dinner. Happy Hour is 7 days per week from 3pm-7pm. Catering and big parties available and welcomed. New York style pizza, calzones, desserts!

Try our Eggplant Parm 6617 N. Socrum Loop Rd. 863-937-8866 www.champinos.com

Serving Polk County for over 20 years! Cold Beer • Great Food • Family Fun • Best Wings in Town Independently delicious! Daily specials from 2-10 pm: Monday 60¢Tacos, Tuesday $5 Buffalo Shrimp, Wednesday 45¢ Boneless Wings, Thursday BOGO Bud & Bud Light Bottles, Friday, $9 Grouper Sandwich (All Day), Saturday 75¢ Wings (All Day), Sunday $1 Draft; Bud, Bud Light, Avalanche & Land Shark. Hours: Mon.-Thurs, Sat. & Sun. 11 am to 10 pm. Fri. 11 am to midnight. Follow us on Facebook. FB@ChampsGrill 6645 S. Florida Ave. 863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com

CHEF T’S GARDEN GRILL

Central Florida’s most beautiful dining experience. Enjoy exquisite continental and American cuisine in a historic turn-of-the-century atmosphere in the historic Chiles house. Or linger over wine and appetizers on our intimate garden patio. “I Love Food And The Art Of Dining”- Chef T Must Try: Veal lovers are in for a treat 1525 E Gary Rd., Lakeland 863-687-4386

MISTER FISH

Family owned and operated since 1968 offering the best fish sandwich around! Seafood, chicken and much more using only the best quality food and excellent service! Easily the best homemade food you’ll try! Hours Monday through Saturday 11am to 7pm and closed Sundays.

Must Try: Famous Fish Sandwich 715 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-4280

LAKE WALES CRAZY FISH

Land mark eatery in Lake Wales. Fresh fish never frozen. Fun and casual atmosphere.

Lunch and dinner menu with daily specials.

Mon. 4pm to 9pm. Tues. - Saturday 11:30am to 9pm. Closed Sun. Must Try: Shrimp or Fresh Grouper 802 Henry St., Lake Wales (863) 676-6361

We take pride in our welcoming environment, friendly service and famous burgers. Come in and check our daily lunch and dinner specials.

Weekend specials. Prime rib, frog legs, fried shrimp and catfish.

Must Try: Homemade Pies 8675 Hwy 60 East, Lake Wales 863-696-1901, Find us on Facebook

326 BISTRO PIZZERIA

Bistro Pizzeria shares the art of perfectly rendered simplicity. Wood burning oven, pizza by the slice, made to order specialty pizzas.

Lunch & dinner menu. Warm & casual dining atmosphere.

Must Try: Classic Pizza Napoli 326 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven 863-875-4894 www.arabellas.us/bistro

APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL

#1 Happy Hour Monday-Friday 11am-7pm. $1 Taco Tuesdays! Wings, Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads, Fried Pickles, Chicken Fingers, Nachos and much more! Open Mic Night every Tuesday. Winner of the people’s choice Wing Fling 2011 Wing Champs! Come try em’ yourself.

Must Try: Famous Wings 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven 863-291-0340

ARABELLA’S

We offer the best Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, created from the freshest ingredients.

Enjoy a cocktail before or after dinner in our chic Ave Bar. At Arabellas, our dedicated service and inviting ambiance makes us the premier choice for your lunch or dinner destination.

Must Try: Bananas Foster prepared table side 346 W. Central Ave. Winter Haven 863-293-1797 • www.arabellas.us

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Locally owned sports pub with 30 TVs and full bar. Lunch value combos Mondays-Fridays until 3pm. Award winning jumbo wings with famous sauces and dry rubs. Fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, tacos and dinner entrees available. Weekday Values: Mon. Burgers, Tues. Tacos, Wed. Wings, Thurs.

Fajitas, Fri. Surf & Turf. See ya at Beefs!

Must Try: Award Winning Wings and Burgers 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

(863) 293-9464 • www.beefobradys.com

HARRY’S OLD PLACE

Serving up a large selection of fresh fish for over 27 years! Where the fish is always de-lish! Open for lunch and dinner. Great seafood menu also includes shrimp, scallops, mussels, oysters, crab legs, "fish of the day" board, steaks, chicken, pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups/chowders. Restaurant is located on the shores of Lake Ned in beautiful Winter Haven with a quaint pet friendly outdoor patio. Full bar available. Less than a mile from LEGOLAND. Kid's menu also available.

Must Try: Grouper in a Bag, the Broiled Seafood Combo and award winning Key Lime Pie! 3751 Cypress Gardens Rd., Winter Haven 863-324-0301 www.harrysoldplace.com

RICK'S BAR-B-Q

Featuring delicious barbecue the entire family can enjoy! Serving up great food in downtown since 2011. Our barbecue is hand rubbed with dry seasonings, smoked over hickory wood and cooked all night. Our pulled pork and savory “fall off the bone” style ribs have proven to be favorites for our customers. Eat in, take out or have us cater your next event. On-site banquet room available for private parties; seats up to 60. Stop by for our Bike Night the 2nd Thursday of each month! Hours: Tues 11-3 pm. Wed to Sat, 11-8 pm. Closed Sun & Mon. Must Try: Brisket! But only on Fridays...while it lasts! And ribs, of course!

204 6th St SW • 863-299-0354 FB@lickthebone • www.ricksbarbq.com

SOMEWHERE SPORTS BAR

Enjoy great food, great games and great times in a family-friendly atmosphere. As your sports headquarters, ESPN, NFL & MLB ticket available on 14 flat screen TV’s. Daily lunch specials Mon-Fri from 11-2 pm only $5.99. Open 7 days a week. Appetizers, Sandwiches, Wraps, Salads, Burgers, Pizza & Wings. Full liquor with Happy Hour Mon-Sat from 3-6 pm.

Must Try: Jumbo Wings & Pizza 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 324-7524

THE TWISTED PROP BAR & GRILLE

Winter Haven's newest casual bar & grill nestled on Lake May. Enjoy burgers, wings, wraps, sandwiches and cold beer in a picturesque setting on the Chain of Lakes. Happy hour on beer & wine is Monday to Friday from 2-7 pm.

Indoor dining, Patio dining, Outdoor dining and Pet Friendly. Boat dock with multiple slips available. Stop in by car or by boat to enjoy!

Hours: Mon-Thurs, 11-9 pm. Fri & Sat, 11-10 pm. Sun 12-8 pm. Facebook for more info.

Must Try: Chicken Wings & Burgers 615 7th ST SW (863) 293-1937

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Central Florida’s

Visitor Info CEN TER

GIFTS, TICKETS & LOCAL INSIGHTS

Ready to make the most of your weekends?

Save on tickets to theme parks, grab local event listings, find new places to chow down, and more at your all-in-one resource for Central Florida fun.

101 Adventure Court, Davenport, FL 33837 | (800) 828-7655 Open: 8 am - 5 pm daily | VISITCENTRALFLORIDA.ORG/VIC

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ACOUSTIC DOSE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) SUMNER CURTIS (Federal Bar, LKD) RYAN LEAR (Grove Roots Brew, WH) BOBBY JAMES (Twisted Prop, WH) LIONEL RICHIE (Amalie Arena, TMP)

MONDAY, JUL 29

JULY CONCERT CALENDAR THURSDAY, JUL 4 BAILY CALLAHAN wsg ALMOST THERE, C’NERGY BAND, PARKER BROTHERS (Thunder on Ridge, HC) BLUE ROOSTER (Tanners Lakeside, WH) LUBECK w/ MATT GEHLSEN (Swan Brewing, LKD) ELI MOSLEY (BTW July 4th, BTW) RUNNING RECKLESS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) RUMOR HAZIT (Twisted Prop, WH)

FRIDAY, JUL 5

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUTHERNDIPITY (Tanners Lakeside, WH) POWER SURGE (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) THE BROKE (Grove Roots Brew, WH) MICAH SHANE (Swan Brewing, LKD) SKIP & NANCY FRYE (Federal Bar, LKD) WONDERLAND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) BLIND SIGHTED (Apple Lounge, WH)

SATURDAY, JUL 6 T MIKE & DUKE (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) MICKENZIE PEISHER 2p /RUMOR HAZIT 8p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ANI AND THE FLY BOYS (Tanners Lakeside, WH) REDLINE (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) RUSTED (Fireside Lounge, DVNPT) JOSH DAMPIER DUO (Grove Roots Brew, WH) HOSS, VILLIANS AND VIRTUES, MIDNIGHT SPECTER, LANCE & RICK (SKARZ) (Johnny G’s, LKD) BIG LITTLE SHOW 2p/ PASSERINE 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) GRUMPY (Ybor Lounge, LKD) POWER SURGE (New Grove Lounge, DUN) JFK BAND (Twisted Prop, WH)

SUNDAY, JUL 7 LUBECK (Tanner’s Lakeside, WH) THE BROKE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) T MIKE & DUKE (Twisted Prop, WH) DREW WILLIAMS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD) MIKE MONTS DE OCA (Federal Bar, LKD)

MONDAY, JUL 8 MICAH (Gary’s Grove, WH)

TUESDAY, JUL 9 LUBECK (Apple Lounge, WH)

16 JULY 2019

WEDNESDAY, JUL 10 THE BROKE (Gary’s Grove, WH) FIRE JAZZ TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) SKIP FRYE (Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, LKD) WILEY C. WIDNER (Swan Brewing, LKD)

THURSDAY, JUL 11 TONY KNIGHT (Tanners Lakeside, WH) KAT & THE DAWGS (Pink Piano, LKD)

FRIDAY, JUL 12

JOEY FOLEY (Tanners Lakeside, WH) THIRD DEGREE (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) CROSS TRAXX (Swan Brewing, LKD) GREENHOUSE AFFECT (Federal Bar, LKD) SPITFIRE (Apple Lounge, WH) THE BROKE (P & J’s Recreation, FRSTPF) T MIKE & DUKE (Tempo 1930, WH) I4 (New Grove Lounge, DUN) ACOUSTIC DOSE (Grove Roots Brew, WH)

SATURDAY, JUL 13 HARRIS/BARONE JAZZ (Tempo 1930, WH) PLAN B (New Grove Lounge, DUN) JADED (Lkd Harley Davidson, LKD) BOBBY JAMES (Grove Roots Brew, WH) NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK wsg SALT-N-PEPA, NAUGHTY BY NATURE, DEBBIE GIBSON, TIFFANY (Amway Center, ORL) MARY J BLIGE & NAS (Mid FL CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, JUL 14 CROSS TRAXX (Old Man Frank’s, WH) JIM THOMAS (Tanners Lakeside, WH) SKIP & NANCY FRYE (Federal Bar, LKD) JOHN FRINZI (Grove Roots Brew, WH) OAKLEE (Twisted Prop, WH) LUBECK (Harborside, WH)

MONDAY, JUL 15 ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Gary’s Grove, WH)

TUESDAY, JUL 16 THE EAGLES TRIBUTE (Ritz Theatre, WH) SKIP FRYE (Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, LKD) WILEY C. WIDNER (Swan Brewing, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, JUL 17 FIRE JAZZ TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, JUL 18 THE DUKES (Tanners Lakeside, WH) T MIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots Brew, WH)

FRIDAY, JUL 19

BRIMER & ADRIENNE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: PINK FLOYD (RP Funding Center, LKD) SISTER LUCK (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) THE DETECTIVES (Federal Bar, LKD) TWO SMOOTH (American Legion #8, WH) RUSTED (Apple Lounge, WH) THE DIRTY SOUTH (New Grove Lounge, DUN) SUMNER CURTIS TRIO (Grove Roots Brew, WH) LAURIE & RUSTY WRIGHT (Fresco’s, LKD)

SATURDAY, JUL 20 HUNTER SMITH (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) TRAVIS WILLIAMS 2p/ SOUTHERN BLEND 8p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) WE THREE STRINGS (Tanners Lakeside, WH) JOSH BLEVINS BAND (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) VOXX wsg SISTER KILL CYCLE/ AGAINST MY WILL (Johnny G’s, LKD) POWER SURGE (Fireside Lounge, DVNPT) CHASING DAYLIGHT (Federal Bar, LKD) HARRIS/BARONE JAZZ (Fire Restaurant, WH) LED ZEPPLIN TRIBUTE (Ritz Theatre, WH) FREE AGENT (New Grove Lounge, DUN) MUNN PARK SAINTS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) THE BROKE (Fresco’s, LKD) NATHAN BALDWIN (Twisted Prop, WH) ICONIC OPERA (Swan Brewing, LKD)

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Gary’s Grove, WH) SKIP FRYE (Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, LKD) WILEY C. WIDNER (Swan Brewing, LKD)

WEDNESDAY, JUL 24 TWO SMOOTH (American Legion #8, WH) FIRE JAZZ TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) BLAKE FREE (Grove Roots Brew, WH)

THURSDAY, JUL 25 TONY KNIGHT (Tanners Lakeside, WH) ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Gary’s Grove, WH) PABLITO’SWAY (Ave Bar, WH) JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

FRIDAY, JUL 26

MICAH (Tanners Lakeside, WH) SOUTH BOUND (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) A & V PROJECT (Pink Piano, LKD) LADY MOONBEAM & CMPNY OF ANMLS (Swan Brewing, LKD) BRYAN JAMES BAND (Federal Bar, LKD) HARRIS/BARONE JAZZ (Tempo 1930, WH) CROSS TRAXX (Apple Lounge, WH) B. HAVEN (P & J’s Recreation, FRSTPF) KOLT 45 (New Grove Lounge, DUN) WE THREE STRINGS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) LUBECK (The Wine Stable, BTW)

SATURDAY, JUL 27

MICKENZIE PEISHER/ PABLITO’SWAY (Gary’s Grove, WH)

SOUTHERN LEGACY DUO (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) PAT N TOMMY 2p/ JOSH BLEVINS BAND 8p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUL 2 EARTH (Tanners Lakeside, WH) JOE REID & THE HEARTLAND (WH Bar Off The Chain, WH) NEAL AND PREY (Pink Piano, LKD) 10,000 PAPERCUTS (Johnny G’s, LKD) ALMOST THERE (Fireside Lounge, DVNPT) MUSHU (Federal Bar, LKD) WONDERLAND (Caribbean Bay, WH) B. HAVEN (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) RUNNING RECKLESS (New Grove Lounge, DUN) BRIAN SMALLEY (Swan Brewing, LKD) SOUTHERNDIPITY (Grove Roots Brew, WH) SOUTHERN BLEND (Twisted Prop, WH)

TUESDAY, JUL 23

SUNDAY, JUL 28

SUNDAY, JUL 21 KAT N THE DAWGS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ALMOST THERE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Federal Bar, LKD) GEORGE GROSSMAN/ MIKE HARRIS (Fire Restaurant, WH) WILEY, PJ & THE MAZZ (Grove Roots Brew, WH) JFK DUO (Twisted Prop, WH) LUBECK (Tempo 1930, WH)

MONDAY, JUL 22

LUBECK (Apple Lounge, WH)

SOUTHERN LEGACY (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TUESDAY, JUL 30 WILEY C. WIDNER (Swan Brewing, LKD) SHAWN MENDES wsg ALESSIA CARA (Amway Center, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, JUL 31 FIRE JAZZ TRIO (Fire Restaurant, WH) JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) Friday, Aug 2 ACOUSTIC DOSE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUTHERN LEGACY (Florida Brewery, ADL) RICH & FRIENDS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) WONDERLAND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) LUKE BRYAN wsg COLE SWINDELL, JON LANGSTON (Mid FL CU Amphi, TMP) THE PETTY HEARTS (House of Blues, ORL)

FRIDAY, AUG 2

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUTHERN LEGACY (Florida Brewery, ADL) RICH & FRIENDS (Grove Roots Brew, WH) WONDERLAND (New Grove Lounge, DUN) LUKE BRYAN wsg COLE SWINDELL, JON LANGSTON (Mid FL CU Amphi, TMP) THE PETTY HEARTS (House of Blues, ORL)

SATURDAY, AUG 3 BLUE ROOSTERS (Balmoral Bar & Gr, HC) SISTER LUCK (Old Man Frank’s, WH) CLOVER’S REVENGE (Molly McHugh’s, LKD) GRUMPY (Ybor Lounge, LKD) JUSTIN GRIMES (Grove Roots Brew, WH) 311 & DIRTY HEADS wsg DREAMERS, BIKINI TRILL (Mid FL CU Amphi, TMP) I PREVAIL wsg ISSUES/ JUSTIN STONE (House of Blues, ORL)

SUNDAY, AUG 4 RUMOR HAZIT (Old Man Frank’s, WH) JIM THOMAS (Harborside, WH) DREW WILLIAMS (Grove Roots Brew, WH)

ATTENTION BANDS & VENUES Keep us up to date.

Send live music info to tracey@todayandtonight.com Deadline is the 23rd of each month prior to publication.

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17

POLK COUNTY’S BELOVED

BARTENDERS 16th

Annual

Interviews By Erica Smith Bartender Photos by Chris Douglas Cover Photo by Mike Potthast This July marks the “Sweet Sixteen” for our annual Beloved Bartenders Contest. This edition is always a fan favorite with our readers and we enjoy the opportunity to present Polk County’s top 10 list. This year exceeded expectations with nearly 3,000 votes and 160 different nominations. The class of 2019 several returning alumni including a 4-time winner, Malorie Goldbach of the Apple Lounge & Grill! Our congratulations to every nominated bartender and our hats are off to the top ten!

Polk’s Beloved Bartender feature story started with the very first edition of the magazine and due to its popularity, the voting aspect became a staple component a few years later.

Throughout the contest’s history, the magazine has collected more than 40,000 votes from dedicated readers wanting to recognize to their favorite hospitality professionals. This contest has quickly become our way of saying thank you to the men and women who work hard each day to provide superior customer service.

2019 marks our 15th Anniversary as Polk County’s premiere dining and entertainment magazine and it has been our pleasure to bring so many amazing stories and destinations to our pages. Over the years, our writers followed the careers of rising music stars, watched new businesses thrive and shared their unique perspective on this beautiful community. We are proud to be the publication that weaves entertainment, dining, events and more into a dynamic fabric that is truly vibrant and local!

This issue offers a glimpse into the lives of 10 incredible professionals. We encourage our readers to get out and explore the wonderful “watering holes” Polk County has to offer and say hello to each of our winners.

Finally, we want to take the time to thank our advertisers, readers and supporters for the wonderful memories and 15 YEARS of continued success. Today & Tonight Magazine is the pulse of Polk County and we are committed to providing Central Florida with the best possible local entertainment and event news.

Start the drum roll… Today & Tonight Magazine presents the 16th Annual Polk County Beloved Bartenders Winners…

18 JULY 2019

1st

Place

ASHLEY HORN FRESCO’S

132 Kentucky Ave, Lakeland Years in Service: 6 What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

I always just have fun! Life is too short. I treat my guests like family and in turn, they love & support me back! Oh! and of course my cocktails rock!

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

The Cayman Islands & Cozumel, Mexico!

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

Thailand!

What was your favorite toy growing up?

My pink Hot Wheels “Barbie” corvette! (I always knew to dream big!)

What has been your most courageous act?

Having the strength to stand up for what I believe in no matter what is at stake. I always take a stand and am very outspoken about uplifting and supporting each other as women.

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

Hang out on an island of stray dogs in Costa Rica with unlimited good food.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

Dog Mom AF!!!!!! “Princess Remington” aka Remi is my 60lb Christmas lap puppy! She is the best “treat-yo-self-gift” I ever gave myself! She is a model!

What is your signature cocktail?

The Jarritos’ Orange Mojito! It’s our twist on a classic refreshing summertime cocktail that everyone can enjoy! It is muddled with fresh mint leaves, hand sliced orange wheel, lime juice & 2oz of silver rum! Then shaken to perfection and strained over fresh ice!

Finally, the drink is topped with a splash of our Jarritos’ Orange Soda to keep the Latin vibe! If you weren’t a mojito fan before, you will be!

Any final comments?

Not everyone gets to love what they do, but I can. It is a privilege to come to work every day and express my passion for what I do by making cocktails for everyone! That is what truly makes me happy!

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

Mayonnaise. Because, it is mayonnaise.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Katniss Everdeen, of course! She’s a super badass! And represents a strong woman role model for the youth of today!

The Hunger Games are pretty awesome.

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

Jennifer’s Body! It is horrible, it is so bad but so good! If you are going to get eaten by a demon, it might as well be Megan Fox. As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

A lawyer, because Mom told me I could always win an argument.

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

MALORIE GOLDBACH APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL

2803 Recker Highway, Winter Haven Years in Service: 11

4 Time Nominee What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Enjoying what I do. I truly enjoy my customers that have become my friends and family. I enjoy the environment at work and I enjoy mixing up yummy cocktails.

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

It would honestly be a toss-up between cliff jumping into the waters of Jamaica and standing 152 floors up in the Empire State Building overlooking NYC at Christmas.

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

I cannot pick just one, so I would say; I would love to ride a camel in Dubai, or hula dance on the beach in Maui.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

My outside swing set. It was my slide, my swing, my monkey bars, basically my own personal kid workout station. Ha ha.

What has been your most courageous act?

I conquered one of my biggest fears while accomplishing one of my scariest goals. Sky Diving!

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

COOKED CARROTS! Carrots should only be served cold and dipped in Ranch dressing never cooked as a hot food item.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Phoebe from Friends! To spend a day in her head would not be far

from my own. I mean who does not love Phoebe!

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

Once again, I am torn. Notting Hill because who does not love Julia Roberts who falls for Hugh Grant’s English accent! OR, Gone in 60 seconds! Nicholas Cage paired with Angelina Jolie and those sexy cars – that is a “to die for” combination!

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

Honestly, growing up numbers have caught my attention since I learned how to count. Becoming an accountant has always been my dream.

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

I would smile. I’d smile because I am every bit happy with my life and how it’s formed. I’d take my last week, gather all my loved ones and travel. We would stroll down our memory lanes together, smile, and laugh.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

Dogs!!! I am and have always been a sucker for rescue dogs. My Dalmatians along with my current dog were rescues. They become your best friend. You cannot go wrong with a good pup.

What is your signature cocktail?

A Breakfast Shot. It’s the perfect measure of Crown mixed with butterscotch along with a side chaser of OJ. If you are anything like me, you will love it and call any time breakfast!

Any final comments?

Thank you to Today & Tonight Magazine, the Apple, and my friends and customers for giving me this opportunity to be recognized, 4 years in a row.... Thank You!

2nd Place

SHANNON MUNCY

be Christian Grey with his red room! We all know why!

5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven Years in Service: 18-ish

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

Nothing But Trouble and Cry Baby. Both movies seem so cheesy now but I loved them. Probably seen them a hundred times.

GRAPE EXPECTATIONS 2 Time Nominee

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Be yourself! I laugh a lot and always try to make people feel good!

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

Roatan, Honduras Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

Ugh, there are so many! But Hawaii or Greece would be at the top!

What was your favorite toy growing up?

I just liked being outside, but if I had to pick a toy it would have probably been my etch a sketch What has been your most courageous act?

Becoming a mother!

3rd Place

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

Cow tongue, never gonna happen!

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Y’all have the hardest questions! It would have to

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

I always said I was going to be a Lawyer. You can see how that worked out, ha!

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

Only a week? I’d have to soak up all the time I could with my family. Right at home.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

Today I’m both. I’ve always had cats and my favorite cat would definitely have been the most recent Mikey. He is not with us anymore, though.

I do have a dog now, and he is my sweet baby!

I did not think I could ever love a dog this much until he came along!

What is your signature cocktail?

A Bloody Mary. Working at Paddy’s for so long gave me the secret ingredient to a kick ass bloody mary!

Any final comments?

I am so glad to be a part of the top 10 again! You guys rock! Thank you!

— Continued Page 20 SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

JULY 2019

19

ASHLEY ORTIZ

BREW HOUNDS SPORTS LOUNGE 318 Havendale Blvd, Auburndale Years in Service: 4

2 Time Nominee What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Oh my, I do not know, I guess maybe my personality, lol!

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

I have not traveled to many places but I would have to say any beach is amazing! My most favorite place to vacation is Anna Maria Island!

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

I would love to see Ireland.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

I loved my Lite Brite!

What has been your most courageous act?

It is quite sad that I cannot think of anything, well anything that I would consider courageous.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

SEAFOOD! I have tried all kinds and I can’t get past the smell and the taste.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Definitely Ron Swanson. He is simply amazing!!!

5th

Place

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

50 First Dates is my all-time favorite movie. I absolutely love Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler together!

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

It seems so long ago but I am sure it was some sort of lawyer or cop. I have always been good at arguing!

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

I would want to be at the beach with my family just relaxing.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

Most definitely a dog person! We have 3 amazing fur babies. Maggie and Paris are min pins and Boss is a pit mix.

What is your signature cocktail?

I make a mean Sex with an Alligator but one I have made up (I never remember the name I gave it) is super yum!

It is raspberry vodka with Blue curacao and sour with a Grenadine sinker.

Any final comments?

Thank you Skip and Luke for giving me the opportunity to become a bartender at my favorite bar! Thank you everyone who voted for me, it means the world to me! Much love!

4th

Place

LAYLA HARDEE

MOJO’S WINGS, BURGERS, BEER 1853 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland Years in Service: 7

2 Time Nominee What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

You need to care more than just the drink you are making! When someone walks up to your bar, treat each customer, as you want to be treated, like a friend you have not seen in a while! Show them a good time! Laugh, joke and have fun! Let them forget about the outside world for just a little bit.

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

South Dakota by far! The bad lands, the snow, the mountains.... absolutely gorgeous.

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

I have always wanted to go to Ireland. I hope that I will make it one day.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

The only toy I really remember playing with was my easy bake oven.

What has been your most courageous act?

Having my son and doing everything I can as a single mother to make sure he receives excellent care and love.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

I try everything! At least once, I’m really not too picky.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Ok, Serena Van der Woodson. Ha ha, from Gossip Girl. I want her entire closet!

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

I love all movies and watch them any second I can. I don’t think I have a single favorite movie, but I love comedies.

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

I wanted to become a teacher. The more I advanced in my education; I wanted to be a High School Algebra teacher.

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

Spend the remaining time with friends and family to make the best memories we possibly could.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

I love all animals. I do not have any pets but my best friend Brittany named her cat Carlos, ha ha.

He is so sweet, and my son’s dog Nova is the absolute cutest.

What is your signature cocktail?

A delicious Peach Sangria that will have you feeling just peachy. My favorite shots are a Pickle Back or a Black & Yellow. You can get them all at Mojo’s Wings Burgers and Beer off HWY 92 in Lakeland!

Any final comments?

Thank you to every one of you that voted for me again for the second year in a row! Also, a big shout out and congratulations to my co-worker and friend Madisen Courson for making the top 10, too! I work with a great group of girls and have met such great people at Mojo’s! You guys are awesome!

— Continued Page 23

20 JULY 2019

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

SNAPSHOTZ Call your favorite bar For more information!

AUBURNDALE Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 102 W. Polk Street (863) 968-0010 Full Liquor Sports Bar TVs for the Games Bottoms Up Sports Bar 419 E. Bridgers Ave (863) 845-2913 Karaoke, Pool Tables Silver Strike Bowling Beer & Wine Find Us On Facebook Brew Hounds Sports Lounge 318 Havendale Blvd.

(863) 967-2739 Wed, Trivia 6p Thu, Hospitality Night/$3 wells Thu & Sat, Dart Tourn. 8p Sat & Sun, Beer Bckt Specials Idle Zone (Downtown) 117 E Lake Ave (863) 875-7932 Sat, Karaoke 8p Live Music 7p Sports Packages/TVs Extended Menu: Steaks, Oysters, Tuna, Full Bar!

BABSON PARK Crooked Bass Grill/Tavern 1010 N. Scenic Hwy. (863) 589-5887 Full Liquor Seafood, Steaks & Burgers Live Music Fri & Sat Pool Table & Darts

BARTOW Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 East Van Fleet Drive (863) 534-3111 Full Liquor Sports Bar Fun Bar 3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400 Karaoke Pool Table & Darts Mulligan’s Bartow Golf Club 150 N. Idlewood (863) 533-1668 Thu, Karaoke 7-10p The Wine Stable 150 S. Broadway (863) 533-9463 Full Bar Live Music

Presented By Brew Hounds Sports Lounge

DAVENPORT Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350 Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps Lucky’s Corner Pocket 43356 Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Full Liquor Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables Outdoor Beer Garden Fri & Sun Karaoke w/Lon The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880 TVs, Pool Table Darts, Jukebox Wed & Sat, Karaoke 9p The Wheelhouse/19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560 Tue & Fri, Karaoke 9p Thu, Trivia 8-10p

DUNDEE New Grove Lounge (1/4 m north of Dundee Rd) 28390 US Hwy 27 (863) 439-1537 Fri & Sat, Live Music

FROSTPROOF P & J Recreation 33 South Scenic Hwy (863) 635-9825 Home of Famous Slaw Burger!

FT. MEADE Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732

HAINES CITY Amos Tavern 200 US Highway 17 92 N (863) 422-1459 Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Frank E’s Lakeside 1090 Shady Cove Rd E (863) 574-9830 Fri-Sun Live Music Great Sunsets Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Karaoke, Darts, Billiards Live Bands Happy Hour 12-7p

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Shady Cove Bar & Grill 7140 State Road 544 E. (863) 421-6800 Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 4-7p Open Daily 12p Daily AUCE Food Specials Daily Drink Specials Live Music

LAKE ALFRED LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F Wed, Karaoke w/Alice 3rd Fri, Bike Bash

LAKELAND Beef ‘O’ Brady’s North 1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd (863) 853-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs Beef ‘O’ Brady’s South 4810 S FL Ave (863) 646-7757 Full Liquor Sports Bar 2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs The Boondocks 8515 Hwy 98 North (863) 858-3355 Wed, Pool Tourny Fri & Sat, Live Band 9p Champino’s Rest & Pizzeria, Sandpiper Plaza 6617 N. Socrum Loop Rd (863) 937-8866 Happy Hr 3-7p Full Liquor Bar Direct TV Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900 Happy Hr 3-7p Daily Specials Mon, Tacos 5-10p Wed, Boneless Wings 5-10p Cob & Pen 1221 S. Florida Ave (863) 937-8126 Craft Beer & Wine Fine Bar Food Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E. Edgewood Dr Suite G (863) 686-6441

JULY 2019

21

SNAPSHOTZ

Even Par Sports Bar 5100 US Hwy 98 N

Business Casual Sun –Thu

Happy Hr 4-6p Daily

Dress to Impress Fri & Sat

NFL Sunday Ticket/

LakelandLoft.com

MLB Package

132 S. Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7

Monthly Pairings

Great Bistro Fare

Late Menu/Full bar Live Music

(863) 683-1201

Full Bar

(863) 816-7995

Fresco’s Bistro

(863) 210-5327

Jazz & Cigar Lounge

Suite 13

Dart Tournaments

T-Bows 33 Lounge

108 South Tennessee Ave

Oak Plaza North

$12 Buckets

Lakeland Loft

EMAIL US YOUR

SNAPSHOTZ TO: SNAPSHOTZ@ TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE NEXT ISSUE

4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd Happy Hr 4-6p; $2.75 Wells, $2.25 20oz Drafts Wed-Sat, Karaoke 9p Wally’s Pool Hall

Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl) 4318 US Hwy 98 N

1136 E. Main St (863) 688-4460 Hpy Hr, Mon-Sat 11-7p Mon, 9-Ball Tourn

(863) 858-3878

Tue & Thu, APA 8 & 9-Ball

Mon, Poker 7p

Thu, Ladies Nite w/free pool

Wed, Poker 11a

1st Thu, Karaoke Contest

1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands

Winner’s Circle 4215 South Florida Ave. (863) 644-9464

Masons Live

5501 S. Florida Ave

Gator’s Dockside

(863) 333-0096

5135 S.R. 98

Tue, Trivia 7:30p

Food, Full Bar

Mon, Thu, Fri & Sat, DJ

Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night

Highland City

Crafted Bar Food

(863) 619-7627

Wed, Karaoke

Open late night

Fri & Sat, Live Bands

5263 S. Florida Ave

Hookah Palace

Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer

Happy Hr 4-7p

(863) 688-1818

(863) 583-9119

Mon-Thu, Nightly

Tue, Karaoke

1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p Ybor Cigars & Spirits (863) 619-6799

122 S. Kentucky Ave

1853 E. Memorial Blvd

House DJ

Hpy Hr 2-7p

Specials

Wed, $5 Burgers

Isle of Capri

Sun, 50 cent Wings

(863) 665-6246

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub

Hpy Hr 3-6p; $1.50 Drft

(863) 686-6231

Wed-Sun, 8-Ball/9-Ball

Live Music, Fri

Thu-Sun, Karaoke 9p

The Pink Piano

2019 Hwy. 60 E

Johnny G’s

(863) 937-8885

Sports Bar

(863) 858-3366

Wine, Beer, Tapas

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

Tue, Ladies Night $1

Southside Package

Wed, 5¢ Drafts/$1 Wells

1122 S. Florida Ave

541 S Combee Rd

Tue-Sat, Live Music

Fri, Ladies/Latin Night

Food, Beer/Wine

111 S. Kentucky Ave

Wed, Ladies Night 7p

Darts, Pool Tables

6p

5153 US Hwy 98N Hpy Hr Mon-Fri 4-6p Drinks

Sun, Free Pool 6-cl

Darts/Pool Table/TVs

LAKE WALES Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 604-1456 12 oz $1.35 Drafts Trish is Back!

All Star Grill

1015 S. Florida Ave Tue-Sat, Live Music

& Lounge

(863) 683-4703

Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a;

(863) 679-9689

19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs Cherry Pocket Steak

Just Larry’s Bar & Grill

Full Liquor

(863) 666-6898

T A Slammers

3100 Canal Rd

Drafts

(863) 682-4178

Seafood, Full Liquor

Nightly Specials

Thu, Fri & Sat, Music 6-10p

3415 E County Rd 542

& Seafood Shak

Tue, $5 Burgers/$1

1011 S. Florida Ave

(863) 439-2031

Wed, .50 Wings 4p-cl

Full Liquor

Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p

Thu, $2 Redneck Tacos Fri, AUCE Fish $8.95

22 JULY 2019

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

ANDREA CASTELLI

MOJO FEDERAL SWINE & SPIRITS 130 S Tennessee Ave., Lakeland Years in Service: 6 years

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Smiling. That is what I am known for! I think people want to come to the bar to have a drink, relax, and get away from any negativity that might be happening. Smiling and just being genuinely happy is a good breath of fresh air for people. If you are kind and treat every guest with care, you will build regulars that become your lifelong friends.

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. I love to travel and this park has hands down the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. The drive up on the Icefields Parkway is rated as one of the most scenic drives in the world! Look up Peyto Lake. It will make you want to hop on a plane!

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

Thailand! I love a good adventure and Thailand has so much to explore! The culture, the people, the scenery, the list goes on.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

My favorite toy growing up was a stuffed animal, the monkey Abu from Aladdin. My parents actually still have it!

What has been your most courageous act?

I try to always test myself and face my fears. That is how you build courage! Stepping outside of your comfort zone is so important to grow as a person. One example that instantly comes to mind was when I jumped off a HUGE cliff in South Point, Hawaii. The fall down was not nearly as scary as the climb up the swinging ladder.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

It is a tough choice between mushrooms and seafood. I do not like the smell of fish and the texture of mushrooms.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

My favorite show is Stranger Things. I would love to meet the character Eleven! She is one brave girl with psychokinetic and telepathic abilities.

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

My favorite movie is Edward Scissorhands! I love that it is a dark romantic love story. The setting and the colorful neighborhoods always caught my eye. I remember watching it multiple times when I was younger. Johnny Depp played the role perfect!

It became even cooler when I found out that they filmed one part in Lakeland, my new home.

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a teacher. My parents built my siblings and me a clubhouse when we were kids. It had a huge white board and a school desk. I would always play teacher and make my brother and sister be the students.

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

I would spend it with the people I love. I’ve always been big on spending time with family and friends. It doesn’t even matter to me where we would spend the time because their company alone would be more than enough. I’m so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing people!

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

I am a dog person. I have two dogs named Luna & Barney.

Luna is a Miniature Australian Shepherd and Barney is a Boxer Pit mix. Growing up, I always had Australian Shepherds. They are such smart dogs!

What is your signature cocktail?

An Old Fashioned. It is a simple drink! Bitters, turbinado sugar, and bourbon. Stirred and poured over a king cube. It is easy, delicious & a classic.

Any final comments?

I want to say thank you to everyone who has taken time out of their day to vote for me! I feel so special to have had the chance to move to Lakeland and meet the people that I have.

You are all amazing! I remember when I first moved here two years ago, I was eating at Fred’s with my parents and my dad showed me the Today & Tonight Magazine. It just so happened to be the July issue with Polk County’s Top Bartenders. I quietly thought to myself “I wonder if I could ever be in that?” Well, here I am and I feel so happy/honored!

DANYELL COGGINS 1005 South Lake Howard Drive, Winter Haven Years in Service: 29 years

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Wonder Woman... because she is a female bad ass and hot!

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Using your personality, common sense and making people smile and laugh.

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

I really do not have a favorite but I love vampire movies... because of the sex appeal and the mysterious characters.

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

I used to live in Hawaii and it is definitely the most beautiful spot on the planet.

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

I wanted to be a veterinarian. I still love animals and want to rescue them all.

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

Venice just for the food and wine!

If you were told you only had one week left to live, what would you do?

I would spend time with my family and friends. We would live it up eating and drinking!

OLD MAN FRANK’S

7th

Place

6th

Place

3 Time Nominee

What was your favorite toy growing up?

Strawberry Shortcake anything!

What has been your most courageous act?

I saved a child from drowning while the parents were unaware.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

Balut is a street food specialty from the Philippines.

What makes this street food unique is that you are eating a fertilized boiled egg complete with a developing chicken. My sister used to eat them and I still remember hearing the crunch...eewwww

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

I am a dog person. I have a “chawinnie” named Vino because Mommy loves wine and a “chawawa” I adopted named Macho.

What is your signature cocktail?

I created a Jamaican Margarita that is a beautiful teal color and tastes of coconut and island fruit.

Any final comments?

I want to give a shout out to all the staff at Old Man Frank’s for their hard work. We are a great team!

— Continued Page 24

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JULY 2019

23

ASHLEY WHITE

BREW HOUNDS SPORTS LOUNGE 318 Havendale Blvd, Auburndale Years in Service: 5

2 Time Nominee What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Treat each shift as a party, and each patron as a friend!

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

Amiga Island, hands down! The island is tiny and off the coast of Haiti. We took a boat with a group of 15 people and had the entire place to ourselves.

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

Tahiti.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

We were not really inside kids when I was growing up. We played kickball, capture the flag, and hide and seek. If I had to pick a toy, does a trampoline count?

What has been your most courageous act?

I climbed Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

I eat everything. I try everything.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Hermione Granger. She could teach me some cool spells, and maybe put an Undetectable Extension Charm on my favorite handbag, too!

8th

Place

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

Name just one favorite movie? There are too many!

Forrest Gump, Tombstone, Shawshank Redemption, Pride & Prejudice, the list goes on...

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

Cool enough to put on makeup while I drive to the mall (like my older cousin Kim)!

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

Spend it with my family, preferably on a beach somewhere beautiful.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

DOG! My sweet baby Bella is a doll. She has the best temperament and is so loving. She sleeps curled up on our pillows at night, right behind my head.

What is your signature cocktail?

Some things never change. Whiskey. Neat.

9th

Place

MADISEN COURSON

MOJOS WINGS, BURGERS, BEER 1853 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland Years in Service: 3.5 years

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

The secret to my success as a bartender is to keep smiling. It can be busy but keeping a smile on my face makes the environment more enjoyable.

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

The most beautiful place I have ever visited would be Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

One place I would love to visit would be Las Vegas.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

My favorite toy growing up was a Lite Brite.

What has been your most courageous act?

The most courageous thing I have ever done was break up a dogfight. It was scary and nerve racking.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

One food I can never bring myself to eat is oysters.

I hate the smell, texture and taste.

24 JULY 2019

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

I would want to meet Khaleesi from Game of Thrones because she is the strongest and most courageous character in my opinion.

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

Joe Dirt is a terrible movie! I love the movie because it has a nice meaning behind the message.

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

When I was a child, I wanted to be a veterinarian because I love animals.

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

I would go visit a volcano if I had one week to live.

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

I am a dog person. I have a black and white 80 pound male American Bully named Ruger.

What is your signature cocktail?

My signature cocktail would be a Strawberry Mango Drink. I make up this concoction whenever a customer asks for something fruity.

— Continued Page 29

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

SNAPSHOTZ The Good Spot 3825 N. Scenic Hwy (863) 949-4243 Mon-Fri, $1 drafts 3-7p Tue, $2 Dom Bottles Thu, Ladies Night 7-11p Lunch Specials Darts, Pool Table JayBees Rest. & Lounge 8625 Hwy 60 E (863) 696-1901 Full Liquor Lunch & Dinner Open Mon-Sat Just One More Bar 112 E. Crystal Ave. (863) 223-8803 Mon, Tue, Thu, Poker 6p Thu, Ladies Night Fri & Sat, Karaoke 9p-1a Sun, Pool & Karaoke 4p Liar’s Lair Saloon Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Fri, Karaoke 8p Live Music Y’all Come Back Saloon 3230 State Rd 60 E (863) 676-5759 Taco Tues, $1 Live Music/Pool

RIVER RANCH Westgate River Ranch Saloon 3200 River Ranch Blvd.

Restaurant/Saloon General/Western Store (863) 692-1321 ext 40013 Fri, DJ 6p-12a Sat, Live Band 6p-1a

WINTER HAVEN A.J. Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

(863) 875 5623 Apple Lounge 2803 Recker Hwy (863) 291-0340 Happy Hr, Mon-Fri 11-7p Food Available; Daily Specials Mon, Pool Tourn Wed & Sun, Poker/Thu, Karaoke

Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 West Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Tue-Sat, 4p Smoke-Free Full Menu/Full Bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Bar 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special B-Pop’s Lounge 114 W Central Ave (863) 662-3853 Open Daily, 12 pm Beer & Wine Thu, Trivia Sun, MimosaMania Fire Restaurant 325 W. Central Ave (863) 875-5544 Grape Expectations 535 Cypress Gardens Blvd Suite 150 (863) 318-8800 Wine Bar Smoke-Free Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW (863) 291-0700 Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free Food Truck & Live Music Wed-Fri 4p, Sat-Sun 12p Harborside Restaurant 2435 7th St SW (863) 293-7070 Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p Sunday, Early Bird 3-5p Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-6p Waterfront Dining in Lk Shipp

Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW (863) 298-6755 Smoke-Free

Outdoor Patio

Thu, Live Music Jessie’s Lounge

118 3rd Street SW (863) 298-9815

Hpy Hr Mon-Fri, 4-7p Mon, Free Pool

Wed, Big Ass Jam Night Live Music Weekly

Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767 Happy Hr 12-7

Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue & Fri, Poker 7p Sat, Poker 1p

Pool Tables, Darts, Golden Tee Old Man Frank’s

1005 S. Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179

Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p Daily Specials Oyster Bar

Sun, Live Music/$12 Bckts

Sept 2, Labor Day Regatta Prty Past Time Lounge 1605 1st St S

(863) 293-0027

Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table

Winter Haven’s Bar Off The Chain

1560 Havendale Blvd NW (863) 299-5515

Fri, Bike Night w/DJ Redd;

Biker Games, Chef Jeff Grillin’

High Seas Lounge 7000 State Rd 544 (863) 299-2233 Great Food/Drink Specials Live Music

Somewhere Sports Bar

Idle Zone (At Lake May) 615 7th Street SW (863) 875-7949

Lunch Specials Mon-Fri

Live Music

(863) 662-5948

Fri, Karaoke 8p

Sports Packages/TVs Great Food; Lunch & Dinner

Outside Lakefront Seating

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

(863) 324-7524

Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily

Beer Specials/Sports Packages

Tanner’s Lakeside

1006 S Lake Howard Drive Wed-Fri, 4p-cl/Sat-Sun11:30a Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Daily Food Specials

Drink of the Week Promo

JULY 2019

25

J U LY 2 0 1 9

Recreation. Join the Rec on the Move end of season celebration, the second annual Summer Splash Bash. Cool down with water slides, games, music and free food. Located Ben W. Graham Park, Haines City. Fri, 9 am to 12 pm.

C A L E N D A R Get Your Listing in the Calendar

Email Listings to: tracey@todayandtonight.com Info must be received by the 23rd of the Month Prior to Publication.

Events will be included as space allows.

Arts, Crafts, Festivals & Expos

JUL 2

to AUG 6 – The Magic School Bus at the Museum. Join the Magic School Bus rides again at the Museum! Each week during public school’s summer break, we will feature an episode of the Magic School Bus and offer a corresponding hands-on project. This program is best suited for students in grades 1-5. Located Mulberry Phosphate Museum, 101 Southeast 1st Street, Mulberry. Two sessions offered of the same program each Tuesday, at 10:30 am & 2 pm. Admission is free, however registration is required due to space constraints.

JUL 5

– Lakeland First Friday: Downtown Dance Party.

One of the most popular recurring events at Historic Munn Park in Downtown Lakeland. Join us for an evening of free family friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and, of course, the chance to check out a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment. New theme each month.

Located Munn Park, Lakeland. Fri – 6-9 pm.

JUL 11

- Lakeland Food Truck Rally.

Presented by Downtown Lakeland. 20+ food trucks line up around Munn Park to sell their unique cuisine every second Thursday, 6-9 pm. Located downtown Lakeland, 201 E. Main Street.

JUL 12

– Wright After Dark Tour. Florida Southern College will host Wright After Dark Tour on the 2nd Friday of each month. Experience the treasured buildings of Frank Lloyd Wright like never before. Discover the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the

26 JULY 2019

world when you visit Florida Southern College. The campus is home to 13 remarkable Wright structures, including the Usonian Faculty House and iconic Annie Pfeiffer Chapel. Located L.N. Pipkin Bandshell at Florida Southern College, 111 Lk Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland. Fri, 7-8:30 pm. Reservations are required.

Please call (863) 680-4597.

JUL 12

to 14 – The Lakeland Boat Show. Huge selection of new boats, fishing gear and more! All weekend Captain Joe Fishing School: jigs, tackle and line provided for hands-on learning with expert anglers.

Located RP Funding Center, 701 W Lime St, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 10-6 pm. Sun, 10-5 pm. Cost - $5. 12 and under free.

Parking free. LakelandBoatShow.com

JUL 14

– Christmas in July Craft Expo. LS Designs is hosting an indoor Christmas in July Craft Expo. All craft vendors make their own products. Located Historic Train Depot, Park Ave, Downtown Auburndale.

Parking is free. Handicap accessible.

Sun, 10-5 pm. Call Lisa Steadman (863) 272-2678 or lisajacksonburgett@gmail. com for more info.

JUL 15

– Chow Down in Lake Wales. Enjoy some of the best food trucks in Central Florida. Very meal freshly prepared and cooked to order. Bring your appetite, lawn chair and sit back and relax. The Chow Down Food Trucks are at Lake Wailes Park, 205 N 5th Street, Lake Wales on the 3rd Monday of the month from 5-9 pm.

JUL 19

– Bok Tower Gardens Trivia Night. NEW Trivia Night! Trivia by Triviosity featuring questions from “The Office”. Free admission from 5-7 pm.

Trivia starts at 6 pm. Located Bok Tower Gardens, Lk Wales. BokTowerGardens. org

JUL 19

– Family Fun Day & Health Expo. Enjoy a day of fun with games, prizes, dancing, food, face painting, back-to-school supplies and health info and screenings.

Located International Market World Flea & Farmers Market, US Hwy 92 W, Auburndale. Fri, 9 am to 3 pm.

JUL 19

& 20 – The Fancy Flea Vintage Home & Market. Celebrating 10 years of Fancy Flea! This year’s theme is “Summertime in Jane Austen’s Garden”. NEW this year the Fancy Flea Tea Party with special guest J. Lenora Bresler on Saturday

ONLY from 11:30-1:30 pm. Cost is $45 per person and includes ticket to The Fancy Flea. Located RP Funding Center, Sikes & Exhibit Halls, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 9-4 pm. Indoor Market: $6 admission, 12 & under free. Complimentary parking.

FancyFlea.net

JUL 20

– Free Treasure Hunt Downtown.

Hosted by Main Street Winter Haven.

Fun event in the downtown for children ages under 12 years old. Main Street Winter Haven, in partnership with the downtown businesses, presents the annual free treasure hunt! All you need to do is REGISTER for the FREE map.

Check in is between 11-12:30 pm inside the covered breezeway at the Chamber of Commerce, Ave B NW. Treasure Hunters will locate the LEGO Minifigure hidden inside local businesses. Turn in your map after completion and be entered for a drawing for 4 tickets to LEGOLAND Winter Haven. Located Downtown Winter Haven. Sat, 11 am-2 pm. MainStreetWH. com

JUL 20

– Cypress Gardens Ski Show. Free ski show 3rd Saturday of each month.

Concessions available. Bring a blanket or chair for seating. Located MLK Jr Park, Lk Silver, Winter Haven, Sat at 5 pm.

JUL 26

to 28 – Outdoor Life Field & Stream Expo. Featuring top companies, gear, equipment, and latest products. Whether for your next hunt, adventure, or passion for the outdoors, fans will have the unique opportunity to shop, meet and greet with the most knowledgeable people in the industry. Show deals, trophy contests, feature displays, seminars, archery, shooting ranges, exhibits and more! Located RP Funding Center in the Exhibit Hall, George Jenkins Arena and Sikes Hall in Lakeland. Fri, 2-8 pm. Sat, 9-6 pm. Sun, 9-4pm. Cost - $10; 12 and under free. www.fieldandstreamexpo.com (formerly the Deer & Turkey Expo)

JUL 27

& 28 – Mulberry’s Stuff The Truck.

Hosted by City of Mulberry and Gleaner Life: Heart of Florida Arbor. Help Stuck The Truck! Set up outside Walmart ollecting supplies for 500 backpacks supporting Mulberry elementary students. Let’s make this school year one the kids will not soon forget! Located at the Mulberry WalMart, 6745 N Church Ave. Sat, 9-3 pm and Sun, 11-4 pm.

AUG 2

– Haines City Summer Splash Bash.

Hosted by City of Haines City, Parks &

AUG 3

– Mulberry’s Back to School Bash. Hosted

by City of Mulberry and Gleaner Life: Heart of Florida Arbor. For students who attend Purcell & Kingsford Elementary.

Join us for free hot dogs, snacks, games and fun! For the first 500 students to register (forms can be picked up at Mulberry City Hall or the Mulberry Community Service Center), they will receive a free backpack stuffed with school supplies.

Located at the Mulberry High School Gym. Sat, 11-2pm. For more info, please call Debbie at (863)-529-0107 or the Mulberry Community Service Center at (863)-425-1523.

AUG 3

– Summer Palooza Expo. Free back-toschool event hosted by New Beginnings High School. Free haircuts for anyone in need, giving away groceries (1 box per family) and personal care items for 1,000 families, along with a hot dog, bag of chips and drink (while supplies lasts).

Supplies are limited on a first come, first served basis. Located in the George Jenkins Arena, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 10-2 pm. www.summerpalooza.org

AUG 3

– Blast Off Bartow Back to School Bash. Family Fun, Entertainment, Food, Vendors & More! Blast Off Bartow Back to School Bash in association with Endless Abilities for Children with Disabilities Inc. with All For 1 Association, The Snapping Turtles, and others will be hosting its 2nd annual back to school bash. We encourage Bartow and surrounding areas to participate in this free event. Student attendees Pre-K to 12th grade will walk away with free school supplies and information for the upcoming school year. There will be vendors, food, fun, school supplies given away and so much more. Please register ahead of time as supplies will be first come first serve. Located Carver Recreation Center, Bartow. Sat, 10-3 pm. www.BlastOffBartow.com

Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows Main Street Bartow Farmers’ Market – Wednesdays. The Farmers Market vendors offer a wide variety of products including produce, dips and soup mixes, jams, jellies, pickles, honey, pies, candied apples, relishes, pecan and peanut brittle, and crafts. Food vendors available. Located Fort Blount Park at the corner of Main Street and Broadway Ave, Bartow. Wed, 10-2 pm. Facebook@ BartowFarmersMarket Farmers Market at Visitor Information Center – Thursdays. Featuring a variety of vendors offering local produce, handmade crafts and more. Located at Central Florida’s Visitor Information Center, 101 Adventure Court, Davenport (by US Hwy 27). Thurs, 9-3 pm.

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

Lakeland Cruiser’s Car Club – Fridays.

Weekly open car show. Come on down to show off your vehicle! Guests will enjoy New, Old, Experimental, Antique, Ancient, Two-Wheelers and Rat Rods.

Free registration, trophy’s, door prizes, “share-the-wealth” drawing and 50s/60s music. Money raised benefits the Florida Baptist Children’s Home. NEW location Big Lots parking lot 4233 South Florida Ave, Lakeland. Fri, 5-9 pm.

Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market – Saturdays. We have an exceptional variety of local vendors who offer fresh produce, seafood, pastries, breads, desserts, local honey, artisans, and crafts, to name a few. We are part of the FAB (Fresh Access Bucks) program that assists those in the SNAP/EBT program by encouraging healthy behaviors by making fresh, local produce more affordable and accessible to SNAP customers.

Stop by the Market Information Booth for more details! Located N. Kentucky Ave, Lakeland. Sat, 8 am-1 pm. (Closed in August)

JUL 13

- Downtown Bartow Antique Fair & Collectibles Market. Held the 2nd Saturday of each month, antique vendors set up along the sidewalks in downtown Bartow. No charge for public; $20 for vendors. Located E Main Street, Bartow. Sat, 8-2 pm.

JUL 13

& 27 – 2nd & 4th Saturday Markets In Downtown Winter Haven. FREE community events, family and pet friendly. Local vendors offering: fresh & organic greens, raw local honey, food trucks, kettle corn, antiques, art painting, jewelry, all natural & organic body care products, wooden furniture, balloon artists, facial paintings, local crafts, fair trade, baby dresses, third party networks, non-profit, local businesses, cold treats, jams & jellies, baked goods, cottage products, live music, book signing, and more! Located downtown Winter Haven, 41 5th ST NW, Winter Haven. Sat, 9-3 pm.

JUL 13

& 27 - Lake Wales Farmers’ Market.

The Lake Wales Farmers’ Market features locally grown produce and more on the 2nd/4th Saturday of each month. Located Park Ave & Stuart Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 9-1 pm.

JUL 20

- Uptown Yard Sale & Flea Market. Bartow’s monthly Uptown Yard Sale & Flea Market is held on the 3rd Saturday of each month, along the 300 block of East Main Street in downtown Bartow. Sat, 8-1 pm.

JUL 27

- Lake Wales Car Show. Display of custom, classic, street rods, & antique cars and trucks in Historic Downtown Lake Wales on the 4th Saturday every month.

Stroll and admire the cool antique, custom and classic cars of yesteryear while enjoying music, enchanting shops, and the unique restaurants of charming downtown Lake Wales. Located East Stuart Ave, Lk Wales. Sat, 4-8 pm.

JUL 24

– Moonlight Market.

Monthly Moonlight Market at GRB in Downtown Winter Haven; 4th Wednesday! Coming in from all over Central Florida, vendors set up shop just for you from 6-9pm! Items range from handmade soy candles, unique stained glass, to honey, avocados, and freshly baked bread. Check our website to see which food truck we’ll have out! Swing on by, shop, sip & eat local! Located Grove Roots Brewing Company, 302 3rd St SW, Winter Haven. Wed, 6-9 pm.

GroveRoots.com

Concerts & Theatre

JUL 6

– Paw Patrol! Race to the Rescue. Come roll with the PAW Patrol as everybody’s favorite heroic pups race to the rescue on the day of the Great Adventure Bay Race. When Mayor Goodway goes missing, Chase, Marshall, Skye and the rest of the PAW Patrol will need to team up with Ryder to save Adventure Bay’s mayor and stop Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger from winning the race. Located in the George Jenkins Arena, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 10 am & 2 pm.

Cost - $103(VIP), $56, $45, $34, $29, $26, $20 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

JUL 12

to 21 – The Who’s Tommy. A deaf, dumb and blind boy’s journey from pain to triumph is a sensory-defying rock and roll experience. This Tony Award-winning musical was translated to the stage by theatrical wizard, Des McAnu. Based on the 1969 rock concept album, The Who’s Tommy is an exhilarating story of hope and the human spirit. Located Lakeland Community Theatre, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 7:30 pm. Sun, 2 pm. Cost - $24 Adults, $22 Seniors, $17 Students (17 & under. Rated M. www.

LakelandCommunityTheatre.com

JUL 13

– Comedy Night with Eddie Brill & Special Guests. Presented by Winter Haven Laughs. Eddie Brill is a world-renowned comedian, writer and actor. For seventeen years he entertained, engaged and energized audiences as the warm-up talent on the Late Show with David Letterman, pulling double duty as the show’s Stand Up Comedy Talent Coordinator for eleven of those years. Eddie has taped more than 100 TV shows in six different countries… including ten televised appearances on The Late Show. Brill played himself in the FX hit series, “Louie,” and has roles in a number of films including, “30 Years To Life” with Tracy Morgan. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Downtown Winter Haven. Sat, 8 pm. Tickets $15-$22. www.RitzWinterHaven.com

JUL 16

– Tribute Tuesday Live: The Eagles.

Presented by Theatre Winter Haven. The Alter Eagles are by far the most authentic representation of The Eagles in their prime in the world! Any fan of the Eagles music will recognize the subtle complexities of instruments and vocals paired with exacting harmonies when attending an Alter Eagles event. And unlike other top touring tributes to the Eagles the entire show is sung live with no backing vocal

tracks....ever! Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Downtown Winter Haven.

Tues, 8 pm. Tickets $25-$30. www.

RitzWinterHaven.com

JUL 18

to AUG 4 – Footloose The Musical. One of the most explosive movie musicals in recent memory bursts onto the live stage with exhilarating results. When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. What he isn’t prepared for are the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, determined to exercise the control over the town’s youth that he cannot command in his own home. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges is of a father longing for the son he lost and of a young man aching for the father who walked out on him. Located Theatre Winter Haven, Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven.

Sat, 8-10 pm. Cost - $28 Adults, $25 Students. www.TheatreWinterHaven.com

JUL 19

– CAL Presents Pink Floyd: Wish You were Here. Classic Albums Live takes classic rock albums and recreates them live, on stage - note for note, cut for cut.

Founded in 2003 by Craig Martin, Classic Albums Live has become the ultimate destination for music lovers wanting to experience the greatest albums performed live. Relying only on the music, using what Martin refers to as ‘the world’s best musicians’, Classic Albums Live has defined itself as a mainstay in performing arts centers across North America. Located in the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 8 pm. Cost - $44, $33 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

JUL 20

– In The Light of Led Zepplin. Inspired by the musical evolution of both Jimmy Page & Robert Plant, In The Light of Led Zeppelin is bringing audiences a new musical and visual interpretation of the Led Zeppelin Experience the same way Page and Plant presented it in 1994 through 1998. A genre-bending, chance-taking project, the music is performed with the same detail using the authentic instrumentation. This extraordinary, highly refined tribute ensemble digs deeper into the Middle Eastern and classical influences that permeated “Kashmir” — and then follows that intriguing thread into brand-new sounds when performing Led Zeppelin classics, providing a unique, not-to- be-missed musical experience, from the hard-rocking Zeppelin classics to the acoustic masterpieces. Located Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Sat, 8 pm. Cost - $17. www.

RitzWinterHaven.com

AUG 2

– Bok Tower Gardens Music on the Terrace.

Join us for live music on the Café patio terrace featuring The Blue Roosters Friday from 5-7 pm. Free admission from 5-7 pm.

Located Bok Tower Gardens, Lk Wales.

BokTowerGardens.org

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW WEEKLY EMAIL NEWSLETTER AT WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

AUG 9

– CAL Presents The Rolling Stones: Let It Bleed. Classic Albums Live takes classic rock albums and recreates them live, on stage - note for note, cut for cut. Founded in 2003 by Craig Martin, Classic Albums Live has become the ultimate destination for music lovers wanting to experience the greatest albums performed live. Relying only on the music, using what Martin refers to as ‘the world’s best musicians’, Classic Albums Live has defined itself as a mainstay in performing arts centers across North America. Located in the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 8 pm. Cost - $44, $33 plus parking. RPFundingCenter.com

Charity Events & Golf Tournaments

JUL 6

– Independence Weekend Fashion For A Cause. Teen fashion show fundraiser benefiting grant career and technical educational center. To assist with scholarships, tuition and athletics for GCTE Centers. Located Winter Haven Recreational and Cultural Center, 801 Ave T NE, Winter Haven. Sat, 6-9 pm; VIP/Sponsors 5 pm. Cost - $50 VIP, $20 Premium, $10 General. Call Mrs. Grant (863) 875-2785 ext 2003 for more info.

JUL 18

– 17th Annual Guest Bartender Bash.

Raising money for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County. Enjoy cocktails and food tasting from local restaurants and caterers. Must be 21+ to attend. Located at the Venue 650, Winter Haven. Thurs, 5:30-8 pm. Tickets - $75 (Adv), $100 (at Door).

BGCPolk.org/Bash

AUG 4

– Humane Society Bowl A Rama. Join the Humane Society of Polk County as they host a Sunday Funday Bowl A Rama fundraiser at Cypress Lanes In Winter Haven located Dundee Rd. Must reserve your 4-person team in advance. Space is limited. Guest tickets to join the event are only $25. Raffles, Games, Food Buffet.

Sunday, 2-5 pm. Contact: Lisa.Baker@ humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org for more info. Sponsorships available: https://www. humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org/events/ bowlarama/

Sports in Polk

JUL 4

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Dunedin Blue Jays.

Minor league baseball team. Thurs, 5 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. LakelandFlyingTigers. com

JUL 5

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Dunedin Blue Jays.

Minor league baseball team. Fri, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. LakelandFlyingTigers. com

JUL 6

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Dunedin Blue Jays.

Minor league baseball team. Sat, 6 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland. LakelandFlyingTigers.com

- Continued Page 33 JULY 2019

27

POLK’S BELOVED BARTENDERS

HONORABLE MENTIONS Listed in Alphabetical Order by Last Name Kassia

Chelsea Rowdy Paula

Sagan

Lauren Becca Karie

Bee Jay William Lexie

Nichole

Chrisalyn Ashta Kayla

Lindsey Madi

Jamie Carol

Scotty

Tiffany Scott

Trent

Jamie

Jessica Sarah Rick

Chelsea Jessica Chris

Christopher Paula Toni

Kendall

Colleen Kassia Cailin Joel

Daria Kerri

Terrence Alyssa Vicki Dion

Gavin

Megan

Mandy Jamie Chris

Jackie Skip

Heather Raven

Therasa Jade

Peter

Carrie Leila

Amanda Laura Steve

Jessie

Amber

Michelle Nicole

Amber

Courtney Devin Nick

Demi

Alamm Allen

Armes

Arminas Barker

Barnhill Beall

Beverly Borque

Bourque Brown

Brown

Caratinni

Compton

Compton Cortes

Courson Davis

Debadts

Deshazo Dube

Dunbar

Edwards

Eisenhower Embry

Erickson Eva

Everly

Forgiana Fortier

Fortier

Fussell Gager

Galomb Glancy

Glisson Goldey

Gonzalez Grasso

Greene

Greene Gustin Hall

Harper

Herrington Hill

Hillyard Hood Irwin

Jackson Jacobs

Jampedro Jarrell

Jensen

Johnson

Karashay Keeley Keller

Kennelly Knight

Knight

Knowles Lawosn

Lawson Lawton Lee

Lee

Love

Lyman Lynn

28 JULY 2019

Fords Garage

Lakeland

Paddy Wagon Irish Pub

Winter Haven

LAs Midway Lounge

Lake Alfred

Caribbean Bay

Winter Haven

Hurricane Grill & Wings

Winter Haven

Fresco’s

Lakeland

Linkster’s

Lakeland

Lakefront Bar

Haines City

The Apple

Winter Haven

Apple Lounge & Grill

Winter Haven

Grape Expectations

Winter Haven

Harrys

Lakeland

AJ Slammers

Winter Haven

Barrel 239

Winter Haven

Linksters Tap Room

Lakeland

The Loft

Lakeland

Mojo’s Wings Burgers & Beer

Lakeland

Idle Zone

Auburndale

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge

Auburndale

Olive Garden

Lakeland Florida

Applebees

Winter Haven

1845 Tap House

Davenport

Frescos

Lakeland

High Seas

Winter Haven

TA Slammers

Lakeland

The New Grove Lounge

Dundee

Swan Brewing

Lakeland

The New Grove Lounge

Dundee

The Port Steak & Seafood

Haines City

Brews n Cues

Lakeland

Brews N Cues

Lakeland

Caribbean bay

Winter haven

Old Man Franks

Winter haven

Ovation Bistro & Bar

Lakeland

Brew hounds

Auburndale

Ford’s Garage

Lakeland

Fireside Lounge and Billiards

Davenport

Federal Bar Lakeland

Lakeland

Brews N Ques

Lakeland

Tanners Lakeside

Winter Haven

Smokey Bones

Lakeland

Wally’s pool hall

Lakeland

Brews and Cues

Lakeland

Midway Lounge

Winter Haven

The Caribbean Bay

Winter Haven

Gary’s grove

Winter Haven

Ybor Cigars and Spirits

Lakeland

High seas lounge

Winter haven

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge

Auburndale

Manny’s Chophouse

Winter Haven

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge

Winter Haven

Firehouse 92 Bar

Plant City

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill

Lakeland

The New Grove Lounge

Dundee

Chilis

Lakeland

Fresco’s

Lakeland

Office Pub

Winter Haven

Mojo’s Wings Burgers & Beer

Lakeland

End Zone

Lakeland

Sunset Tavern

Haines City

Grape Expectation

Winter Haven

Mojo’s Wings Burgers & Beer

Lakeland

Mojo’s Wings burger & Beer

Lakeland

Apple Lounge and Grill

Winter Haven

Harborside

Winter Haven

Mojo’s Wings Burgers & Beers

Lakeland

Gary’s Grove

Winter Haven

Winter Havens Bar Off the Chain

Winter Haven

Grape Expectation

Winter Haven

Beef O’ Brady’s

Winter Haven

Nick

Jillian

Jocelyn

Amanda Marie

Brandi

Kelsey Lesli Tara

Stephanie Paula

Jennifer Brianna Dana

Brittany Sarah

Miranda Barbara Jena

Sophia Todd Jim

Kylie

Andrew Amber Jackie Thom

Morgan

Andrew Addie

Melina

Jeanine

Brittney

Candice

Samantha Orenthal Sara

Jennifer Brenda Justin Kevin

Jennifer Cori

Alicia

Joanne

Brittany Donna Heidi

Amber Jon

Ronnie

Shanice Joe

Tiffany

Michelle Jeannie EJ

Jason

Nancy

Tamara

Brittany

Samantha Taylor

Lauren

Adam/Ace Bradford Brooke Bryan

Marshall

M

Mancini Martin

Martinez Martino

Masters McCall

Mccarthy

McKinney Mendoza

Montgomery Montoya Mooney Moore

Munday Murray

Normile

O’Sullivan Ogle

Oldham

Oschman Padula

Parrish Partain Pierce Pina

Pittsley Polin

Poulsen Powell Prada

Propst

Ramsey Reed Rieff

Robinson Ross Roth

Sanchez Sanders

Schwartz Scruggs Shea

Simmons

Simmons Starling Storck

Strickland Suhina

Trzcinski Turner

Turner Varco

Villareal Ward

Wetzel

Whatley

Wilguess Williams

Williams Wilson

Wingate Zaudtke Zito N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Swan Brewing

Lakeland

Slate 8 Family Billiards

Winter Haven

Beef O’ Brady’s

Lakeland

Brew Hounds

Auburndale

Winter Haven’s Off The Chain

Winter Haven

AFC Liquor and Lounge

Lakeland

Old Man Franks

Winter Haven

Harborside

Winter Haven

Past Times Lounge

Winter Haven

Caribbean Bay

Winter Haven

Apple Lounge

Winter Haven

Manny’s Chop House

Winter Haven

Gators Dockside Highland City

Highland City

All Star Grill

Lake Wales

The Pink Piano

Laleland

Jessie’s

Winter Haven

Jessie’s Lounge and Jenson’s

Winter Haven

Caribbean Bay Bar

Winter Haven

Tucker’s Southside

Lakeland

Duke’s Brew House

Winter Haven

Wild Greg’s Saloon

Lakeland

Mulligan’s Sport’s Bar and Grill

Bartow

Central Tavern

Winter Haven

The Pink Piano

Lakeland

Tanners Lakeside

Winter Haven

Ybor Cigars and Spirits

Lakeland

Slate Family Billiards

Winter Haven

Fresco’s

Lakeland

Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub

Lakeland

Barside Sports Bar

Lakeland

Mojo’s Wings Burgers Beer

Lakeland

Tbows33

Lakeland

Lucky’s

Lakeland

The Office Pub and Lounge

Winter Haven

Manny’s Original Chophouse

Winter Haven

Manny’s Original Chophouse

Haines City

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill

Lakeland

T-bows 33

Lakeland

Little New Orleans

Winter Haven

Harry’s Old Place

Winter Haven

Central Tavern

Winter Haven

Champs Sports Bar

Lakeland

Sunset Tavern

Haines City

American Legion Post 72

Mulberry

Gary’s Grove

Winter Haven

Somewhere Sports Bar and Grill

Winter Haven

Old Man Franks

Winter Haven

American Legion Post 72

Mulberry

Wild Greg’s Saloon

Lakeland

Chilis

Lake Wales

Central Tavern

Winter Haven

Chili’s

Auburndale

Molly McHugh’s

Lakeland

Applebee’s

Winter Haven

American legion post 72

Mulberry

Revival

Lakeland

AJ Slammers

Winter haven

Fireside Lounge and Billiards

Davenport

Grape Expectations

Winter Haven

Tempo1930

Winter Haven

Tanners Lakeside

Winter Haven

Johnny G’s

Lakeland

Grove Roots Brewery

Winter Haven

Grape Expectations Wine

Winter Haven

Fire

Winter Haven

Lucky’s Orange Bowl

Lakeland

Champino’s

Lakeland

Apple Lounge & Grill

Winter Haven

Swan Brewing

Lakeland

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

CHRISTOPHER IRWIN BREW HOUNDS SPORTS LOUNGE

318 Havendale Blvd, Auburndale Years in Service: On and off on since I was 25.

I’m okay with that.

If you could meet a fictional character who would it be and why?

Jessica Rabbit. I probably shouldn’t elaborate on this one...

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Enjoying the job. This career is not the kind of thing you do for long if you do not really enjoy the time you spend doing it.

What terrible movie do you love? Or what is your favorite movie and why?

I love Howard The Duck. The movie is so bad; it is wonderful. If you have not seen it, you should watch it twice. The first time is going to be horrible, but the second time is a treasure.

What is the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

The upper peninsula of Michigan is incredible. It is so easy to let your cares melt away in the woods.

As a child, what did you want to become when you grew up?

I might have been aiming a little high, but Ruler of the World sounded great as a child.

Where is the one place in the world you want to visit?

I would really love to see the Grand Canyon one day.

If you were given only one week left to live, what would you do?

I would spend every moment with my wife and children.

What was your favorite toy growing up?

I was at the very beginning of the video game era. Atari got me started, but I really loved my ColecoVision.

What has been your most courageous act?

The time I stared down a mountain lion.

What is the one food you can never bring yourself to eat and why?

Anyone who knows me… knows I have a severe phobia of onions. The fear is so bad; I read the ingredients in everything I purchase. It’s crazy and

10th Place

Are you a cat or dog person? Tell us about your pet or any favorite pet from your life.

I truly love all animals, but I currently have three small dogs and they make my life very entertaining.

What is your signature cocktail?

Lately, I have been selling many Water Moccasins with cranberry added. The tart juice really changes the tone of the shot and makes it very smooth.

Any final comments?

Not right now, but I do love math!

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JULY 2019

29

CELEBRATE

summer

IN THE GARDENS.

SUMMER CELEBRATIONS Enjoy the beauty of the Gardens this summer season. Explore the meandering gardens, designed to be a contemplative and informal woodland setting offering a series of romantic recesses and tranquil resting spots, picturesque vistas and breathtaking views of the Singing Tower. Acres of ferns, palms, oaks and pines fashion a lush backdrop for flowering foliage and the spectacular seasonal color showcase an ever-changing work of art.

INDEPENDENCE DAY JULY 4

Free Admission.

TRIVIA WITH TRIVIOSITY

(FEATURING QUESTIONS FROM “THE OFFICE”)

JULY 19

Free admission 5pm-7pm.

Trivia begins at 6pm.

50% OFF ADMISSION FOR FLORIDA RESIDENTS AUGUST 1- 31

Valid photo ID required.

MUSIC ON THE TERRACE WITH THE BLUE ROOSTERS AUGUST 2

Free admission 5pm-7pm.

Music begins at 6pm.

SPONSORED IN PART BY

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

30 JULY 2019

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

We Choose to Go to The Moon — and Mars July 20 marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, the fateful date that saw one step for man and one giant leap for mankind. Since then, some people have dreamed of returning to the moon. Others like Elon Musk and Donald Trump want to go further - all the way to Mars.

Of course, there are also plenty of naysayers who think space travel is a “waste” better spent on more important things. So let me use this column to explain why they’re wrong.

First, let’s nip the idea in the bud that we “waste” money on the space program. Currently, the U.S.

government spends $21.5 billion on NASA. That seems like a lot, but it’s only 0.49% of our $4.4 trillion federal budget, according to Wikipedia. In contrast, $989 billion—more than half of our federal budget!—is spent on our military. Apparently, we don’t have enough money to go back to the moon, but we have more than enough to bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran—or any other country we want to go to war with!

Even if we insist on spending more money on our military than several other countries combined, there are other things we waste our

money on more than our space program. Remember the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter? The “state-of-the-art” jet that can’t fly? (https://bit.ly/2L7s2sD) The one that costs $29 billion per year? In contrast, a manned Mars mission would only cost $5 billion per year, according to Vox. Sending people to Mars costs less than maintaining a non-flying jet!

Did you know that sending a probe to Jupiter’s moons would cost less than building new football stadiums?

Or that operating the Mars rover costs less than minting pennies? Or that improper Medicare payments cost more than NASA’s whole budget? According to Vox, we could cut NFL subsidies, reform Medicare, and discontinue the penny, and still have more than enough money to fund the space program several times over.

“But how does sending people to space help us here on Earth?” In more ways that you can imagine! Sending rockets and satellites into space required our space program to develop new scientific and technological innovations, many of which we use in our everyday lives.

Have you or a loved one ever needed to use an insulin pump, prosthetic limb, or cochlear implant?

Driven along the highway with new

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tires while following directions on a GPS? Worn glasses with scratch-resistant lenses? Then you have used something developed in part due to our space program. If we want to see more technological progress in our lives, we should continue investing in our space program.

“But why should we bother going to space when we have so many problems here on Earth?” It’s true we face many challenges, from the opioid crisis to climate change, but we can still tackle them while going to space.

Believe it or not, we can even walk and chew gum at the same time!

When we first went to the moon in 1969, our country was facing and had faced many challenges: the Cold War, Vietnam War, Cuban Missile Crisis, Civil Rights Movement, and the assassinations of political figures like MLK and JFK. And yet, in spite of all of those challenges, we chose to go to the moon, as JFK himself said, not because it was easy, but because it was hard. Going to Mars will no doubt be hard, especially in light of other problems, but we should still choose to go there, not because it’s easy, but because it’s hard. ­QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Info@todayandtonight.com

JULY 2019

31

THE 10 MOST POPULAR DRINKS TO ORDER AT A BAR Time to learn cocktail basics.

10

MOSCOW MULE

This cocktail is crisp and refreshing, and good for any season. Plus it (usually) comes in a cool copper mug.

Ingredients • 2 oz. vodka • 4-6 oz. ginger beer • 1/2 oz. lime juice Directions Squeeze lime juice into a Moscow Mule mug, then drop in spent shell. Add 2-3 ice cubes and vodka, then fill with ginger beer.

9

APEROL SPRITZ

The Aperol Spritz gets a bad rap for being bitter and basic. But for daytime drinking, you really can’t beat it. Just ask all the bar patrons crowding the patio around you, Spritzes in hand.

Ingredients • 1 part prosecco • 1 part Aperol • 1 splash club soda • orange slices Directions Fill a wine glass with ice.

Add equal parts prosecco and Aperol, and a splash of club soda. Garnish with fresh orange slices.

8

MARGARITA

The Margarita is the workhorse of summer. It’s best made with a splash of Cointreau or Grand Marnier, and if you like it a little sweeter, ask your bartender to add agave syrup.

Ingredients • 2 oz. silver tequila • 1 oz. Cointreau • 1 oz. lime juice • coarse salt for the rim Directions Rub the rim of a chilled cocktail glass with lime juice and dip in coarse salt.

Shake tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, and ice in a mixing glass, then strain into the salted glass over ice.

32 JULY 2019

7

ESPRESSO MARTINI

Coffee and booze in one drink—you really can’t complain about that. Just make sure the bar has fresh espresso on hand before you order it.

Ingredients • 1 oz. vodka • 1 oz. coffee liqueur • 1 oz. freshly brewed espresso • 1 tsp. simple syrup Directions Shake ingredients with ice until chilled, then strain into a martini glass. Garnish with espresso beans.

6

DRY MARTINI

A classic martini technically should be made with gin, although if your prefer vodka, that’s no sin either. Order it up and stirred, not shaken (sorry 007).

Ingredients • 4 oz. gin or vodka • 1 oz. dry vermouth Directions Stir vermouth and gin with cracked ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with an olive.

5

MANHATTAN

While quality whiskey is important, the key to a great Manhattan is the sweet vermouth.

Ingredients • 2 oz. rye whiskey • 1 oz. sweet vermouth • 2 dashes bitters Directions Stir ingredients well with cracked ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with a twist or maraschino cherry.

4

DAIQUIRI

Speaking of summertime cocktails, the Daiquiri is a citrusy marriage of rum and lime (and the preferred drink of Ernest Hemingway). Strained is preferred.

Ingredients • 2 oz. white rum • 1/2 tsp. superfine sugar • 1/2 oz. lime juice Directions Squeeze lime into a shaker, stir in sugar, then add rum.

Shake well with cracked ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

3

WHISKEY SOUR

For those nights when you want to cleanse your palate, opt for a puckery Whiskey Sour. Specify bourbon for this one.

Ingredients • 2 oz. bourbon • 2/3 oz. lemon juice • 1 tsp. superfine sugar Directions Shake ingredients well with cracked ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a lemon wedge.

2

NEGRONI

The Negroni is the epitome of summer drinking: sweet, sun-kissed, and refreshing.

Ingredients • 1 oz. London dry gin • 1 oz. Campari • 1 oz. vermouth rosso Directions Shake ingredients well with cracked ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass—with or without ice, your call—and garnish with an orange twist.

1

OLD FASHIONED

The Old Fashioned is as classic as they come, and perfect for anyone who likes their whiskey drinks on the sweeter side. Rye will make it spicier.

Ingredients • 2 oz. bourbon or rye whiskey • 3 dashes bitters • 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp. loose sugar) • club soda Directions Place sugar in an Old Fashioned glass. Wet it down with bitters and a splash of club soda, then muddle.

Add a large ice cube and whiskey. Stir, then garnish with an orange twist.

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

CALENDAR From page 27

JUL 7

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Dunedin Blue Jays. Minor league baseball team. Sun, 1 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 8

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Bradenton Marauders. Minor league baseball team. Mon, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 9

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Bradenton Marauders. Minor league baseball team.

Tues, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

AUG 2

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Ft. Myers Miracle. Minor league baseball team.

Fri, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

AUG 3

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Ft. Myers Miracle. Minor league baseball team. Sat, 6 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

AUG 4

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Ft. Myers Miracle. Minor league baseball team. Sun, 1 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 10

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Bradenton Marauders. Minor league baseball team.

Wed, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 11

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Bradenton Marauders. Minor league baseball team.

Thurs, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 19

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Daytona Tortugas. Minor league baseball team. Fri, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 20

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Daytona Tortugas. Minor league baseball team. Sat, 6 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 21

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Daytona Tortugas. Minor league baseball team. Sun, 1 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 22

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Florida Fire Frogs. Minor league baseball team.

Tues, 10:30 am located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 23

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Florida Fire Frogs. Minor league baseball team.

Wed, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 24

– Lakeland Flying Tigers vs Florida Fire Frogs. Minor league baseball team.

Thurs, 6:30 pm located Publix Field, Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland.

LakelandFlyingTigers.com

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JULY 2019

33

34 JULY 2019

WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM • ENTERTAINING POLK COUNTY FOR 15 YEARS!

PA FR RK EE IN G

BOAT SHOW

JULY 12-14

FRI & SAT: 10am-6pm SUN: 10am-5pm

Tickets: $5

Children 12 and under free

RP FUNDING CENTER 701 W Lime Street • Lakeland

A huge selection of new boats, fishing gear and more!

Buy one adult ticket, get one free!

We provide the jigs, tackle and line for hands-on learning with expert anglers.

www.LakelandBoatShow.com