Today & Tonight Magazine July 2023

Tell Us What You Think

6 19 Food Tours

EDITOR’S NOTE

As we continue move forward and learn our new way of life, we will keep doing our best to keep you up-to-date on what is happening in our county in regards to dining, events and entertainment. Please see our Facebook page and website for updates and information.

Polk County is back and is strong as ever.

Events and functions are continuing to be scheduled for us to enjoy. Please contact the venues to confirm dates and times.

Expect More, Get More, We Deliver.

Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor

STAFF

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: CHRIS DOUGLAS ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: TRACEY GREENE

COLUMNS

TRACEY GREENE ERICA SMITH JAMES COULTER

EDITORIAL

ERICA SMITH AMY SUMERLIN ELIZABETH MORRISEY JAMES COULTER

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Classically

Summer Serenade Series

Brass Ensemble: July 8

Woodwinds Ensemble: July 22

Strings Ensemble: August 19

Symphony Story Time

The Emperor and the Nightingale: August 5

Join us for Classically Summer, an all-new series of classical music performances by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

In addition to daily Singing Tower carillon concerts, enjoy three family-friendly Symphony Story Time performances and three intimate Summer Serenade performances in the air-conditioned comfort of the Visitor Center Theater.

FOOD TOURS

Enjoy Tastes from Downtown Bars, Restaurants, and Sweet Shops

by James Coulter Downtown Lakeland

Tasty Tuesdays

Want to enjoy an evening on the town but can’t decide where to have dinner? With so many great eateries to visit in Downtown Lakeland, it’s hard to pick just one place to eat. But what if you could eat at all of them? You can do exactly that with Tasty Tuesdays.

Hosted on the third Tuesday of every month, Tasty Tuesdays offers self-guided tours through various cafes and eateries in Downtown Lakeland. For $25, you receive ten tickets that will allow you to sample small bites from participating eateries.

Bite into bruschetta from an Italian eatery, sink your teeth into steak tips at a Gastro Pub, and spice things up with chips and salsa from a Mexican restaurant. With a map and tickets in hand, what and where you eat is your choice. You can even share your tickets with other participants, allowing you to eat as much as

you want.

“You pick up your tickets, you pick up your map, and you go at your leisure,” explained Julie Townsend, Executive Director of Downtown Lakeland. “You do not have to visit every location. You can use more tickets at one location, and no tickets at other locations. It depends on what is being offered and what your tastebuds desire that particular evening.”

Tasty Tuesdays is hosted through LDDA, Lakeland Downtown Development Authority, a quasi-government entity that helps promote businesses and events in the downtown area. The event itself was started to help promote local businesses. With so many independent, locally-owned eateries, a self-guided food tour felt like the best way for locals and visitors to experience them.

“People really love it because they are walking around and they are getting to experience downtown,” Townsend said. “They are not just sitting down at an eatery. And they get to try different things and experience eateries they have not been to yet. It is an evening out. It becomes more than a meal. It becomes an activity and something fun to do.”

Since its inception two years ago, Tasty Tuesdays sells 150 to 200 packages every month. Aside from residents, the monthly event draws in visitors from as far as Dunedin and Ocala. Some even stay overnight at the Terrace Hotel. Recently, musical acts have been invited to perform at Munn Park during the evening to add more ambiance.

“[We’re] very surprised at that level of interaction from the community, but also very happy because it means we are putting heads in beds and we are getting people to try local food, so it has been a great success,” Townsend said. “It is just something fun. You can do it with friends, as a date

night. It is an alternative to sitting at one location and eating a meal at an eatery you have tried over and over again.”

Whether you’re looking for a date night with your significant other, or a group activity with friends and family, Tasty Tuesdays offers a great opportunity to enjoy local eateries--and for 2.50 per ticket for ten tickets, it’s an overall great value.

“The fact that it became an activity more than a meal [is a huge draw],” said Townsend. “Friends ask you to go out to dinner, you sit at a table. This is walking around and making choices and decisions. So, it became an activity of what you can do walking around, people simply enjoyed it.”

For more information about times and tickets, visit their website at: https://downtownlkld. com/tastytuesdays/

Winter HAven FOOD TOURS

Winter Haven is quickly being recognized as Florida's "coolest" small city. How can it not be with so many good places to eat? And all of them a short walking distance away from each other?

Both visitors and locals can peruse the various local restaurants and sample their local eats through Winter Haven Food Tours. These guided tours allow attendees to stroll through the downtown area and sample its diverse selection of eateries and cafes.

Whether you want to indulge your Sweet Tooth, take a Tour around the World, or you want to take a Taste of the South, each of the themed guided tours allows guests to taste something different every time. Not only will you enjoy a good meal, but you will also better appreciate Winter Haven and what it has to offer.

"Many people have mentioned to me that tour guides are the cheerleaders of the city," explained Amanda Anderson, owner and tour guide. "You visit a place and learn the history, you can do the whole process and history of Winter Haven. When we go to the eateries, you learn more about the businesses."

Anderson worked as a tour guide, as well as an actress and singer, in New York City for ten years. She even had the opportunity to travel the country as a tour director and guide for various tours. Three years ago, her family moved to Auburndale to assist her mother. She worked part-time at the City of Winter Haven at the city clerk's office.

"I really fell in love with Downtown Winter Haven," she said. "I thought it was unique with a lot of variety with eateries and everything." She loved Winter Haven so much, and she

wanted to show other people the rich heritage and cuisine of the small quaint city. So, she decided to start her own food tours to allow people the opportunity to visit the downtown area and sample its great food from its great eateries.

"[The idea] hit me in the middle of the night," she said. "I would start a food tour company here. It would bring attention to the downtown area."

The Sweet Tour allows visitors to tantalize their sweet tooth with cookies and other treats from local bakeries and cafes. The Taste of the South allows visitors from out of town to try good-old southern cooking. And Taste Around the World showcases international eats served locally in Florida.

"It is impressive how it grew," she said. "I came up with many ideas for tours and threw it to the wall to see what sticks. People were booking and coming on the tour. I have 5-star reviews on Yelp and Facebook and Google. Some even say they want to move to Winter

Haven because it seems very down to earth and relaxed."

While she gained experience hosting guided tours in New York City, her Food Tours in Winter Haven prove more relaxed and less hectic than the tours she used to host in the Big Apple. Many visitors even arrive from bigger cities to enjoy the town's more laid-back atmosphere.

"My tours are not rush and go like in New York City. It is really chill because that is the vibe we have in Winter Haven. I thought it was a cool idea [to host the food tours]," she said. "A lot of the visitors are people who are coming to Kissimmee and Orlando area, and they do not want to be in a rush. They [the cities] are already crowded. [Winter Haven] is relaxed and open and not too crazy and you can have a good time."

For more information on tours, prices, and dates, visit their website at: https://winterhavenfoodtours.com/

• All the paint on the Eiffel Tower weighs the same as 10 elephants.

• The actual grave of Mumtaz Mahal, for whom the elaborate crypt known as the Taj Mahal was built, is the only undecorated part of the famous structure, due to a Muslim law dictating that graves cannot be adorned, as this is seen as an act of vanity.

• One ingredient in Ranch salad dressing is titanium dioxide, which is used to make it look whiter. It’s also the same ingredient that’s used in sunscreen and paint for coloring.

• George Washington celebrated July Fourth by giving his soldiers a double ration of rum.

• The Bagheera kiplingi spider, discovered in the 1800s, is the only species of spider that has been classified as vegetarian.

• William Moulton Marston, who created the superheroine Wonder Woman, also designed the first lie detector.

• The full name of the famous Chuck E. Cheese mouse is Charles

Entertainment Cheese.

• After the release of the 1996 film “Scream,” which involved an anonymous killer calling and murdering his victims, caller ID usage tripled in the United States.

• The longest-ever cricket test match, between England and South Africa, lasted more than 12 days and finally came to a conclusion because the English team would have missed their boat home.

• There’s very little evidence the TSA has ever stopped a terrorist or found a real bomb. When tested, they failed to find fake weapons and bombs 95% of the time.

• The island of Madagascar got its name when Marco Polo misspelled it.

• During the Second World War, German tank drivers would drive their vehicles over camel droppings, thinking it would bring good luck.

You Reap What You Sow

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” - Gal. 6:7 (KJV)

Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “The moral arc of the universe is long but it bends toward justice.” In other words, even if it takes a long time, justice will be served and good will triumph over evil.

During these uncertain times, justice feels like it no longer exists. How can it when most of the world’s resources are being hoarded by the wealthy elite while everyone else is left scavenging for scraps? When climate change is destroying the environment and nobody is doing anything to stop it? And when greed and corruption permeates our government?

Now let’s say a company sued the network for claiming their voting machines “rigged” the election— and not only did the network settle, but they were forced to save face by firing the pundit for spreading the fake news. He reaped what he sowed!

1. TELEVISION: What is the name of Samantha’s mother in the “Bewitched” comedy series?

2. MOVIES: What is the name of the shark-hunting boat in the film “Jaws”?

3. SCIENCE: What is the most lethal consumed plant in the world?

4. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a female goat called?

5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who served as vice president in Abraham Lincoln’s first term as president?

6. FOOD & DRINK: What kind of alcohol is traditionally used in a drink called a sidecar?

7. LITERATURE: What city is the primary setting for Shakespeare’s

“Romeo and Juliet”?

8. ASTRONOMY: Which planet in our solar system was the first to be explored by a space probe launched from Earth?

9. MUSIC: In what year did MTV launch?

10. GEOGRAPHY: Where is the famous St. Basil’s Cathedral located?

However, even when evil appears to have gained the upper hand, sometimes, occasionally, the moral arc of the universe bends back to slap evil upside the head with much-deserved karma. This past year alone, plenty of evil people have reaped what they sowed, and the harvest has never been more bountiful.

To protect myself from hate mail, I won’t be naming names; however, if you’ve been paying attention to the news, chances are, you’ll know whom I’m talking about.

For example, let’s say there’s a former pro kickboxer who teaches young men they can be rich and famous like him if they act like jerks and treat women like trash. Now let’s say he and his brother are on the lam for (alleged) rape and sex trafficking. Now let’s say he’s inevitably arrested after releasing a video trying to humiliate a famous climate activist, only to inadvertently reveal his location to law enforcement. He reaped what he sowed!

Also, let’s say there’s a certain political pundit infamous for propagating fear, paranoia, and hate. Let’s say he works for a “news” network that spread fake news about the presidential election being “stolen.”

Now let’s say there’s a certain governor of a certain state. Let’s say he’s trying to get revenge on a certain company for criticizing him for his “don’t say gay” bill. Let’s say he succeeded in revoking the company’s special district that allowed their theme park—the biggest employer and taxpayer in the state!—to maintain itself. Let’s say he appointed his own board of cronies to run the park’s infrastructure, only for them to discover that the company pulled the rug from under their feet, leaving them with only the power to fix and clean the roads, much to the governor’s chagrin. He reaped what he sowed.

Finally, let’s say there’s a former U.S. president. Let’s say—among his many, many faults—he took classified documents containing government secrets that could potentially jeopardize national security if they fall into the wrong hands. Now let’s say he was indicted and arrested on 37 federal charges which, if convicted, could have him face a maximum of 400 years in prison. And let’s say this is only his second indictment! He’s reaping what he sowed!

Look, don’t get me wrong. I don’t wish suffering on other people. However, to paraphrase Mark Twain, there have been many times when I have read news stories about bad people suffering consequences for their actions that make me grin. Because in a time when the world seems unjust, it’s good to know that evil scumbags can still get their just desserts.

Answers

1. Endora.

2. The Orca.

3. Tobacco.

4. A doe or nanny.

5. Hannibal Hamlin.

6. Brandy.

7. Verona, Italy.

8. Venus (Mariner 2).

9. 1981.

10. Moscow, Russia.

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship Returns

Special to T&T Mag

Lakeland, FL – Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion has announced BKFC-47 set for Friday, July 14 at the RP Funding Center’s Jenkins Arena in Lakeland, FL headlined by the BKFC Middleweight World Championship between Champion Steven ‘Redneck’ Mundell, (6-1), of Dunedin, FL and #1 Ranked Contender, Mike ‘The Marine’ Richman, (5-1), of Rosemount, Minnesota.

Tickets, starting at $60 for BKFC-47 are Now OnSale at BKFC.com. The Jenkins Arena is located at 701 W. Lime Street, Lakeland, FL. BKFC-47 will also be broadcast internationally as part of the BKFC+ Subscription for $7.99 per month on the New BKFC App – The Best Value in Combat Sports and is sponsored by Bucked Up, Only Fans, Crescent Tools, LIONS NOT SHEEP and Knockout Gummies.

“David Mundell and Mike Richman are two of the toughest bare-knuckle fighters in the world,” said David Feldman, President and Founder of BKFC. “Mundell has been on a torrid run through the division over the last two years culminating in his world title victory last December over Francesco Ricchi. Richman ran through the opposition in his first four BKFC fights before the epic ending to his fight against Lorenzo Hunt at KnuckleMania 3.”

“The Lakeland / Tampa Florida area has been

home to some of BKFC’s biggest nights and this main event along with the loaded undercard promises another sensational night full of fireworks in the squared circle.”

Currently riding a four-winning streak, David Mundell also hold dominant wins over David Simpson (BKFC Fight Night: Tampa 2), Julian Lane (BKFC-25), Stanislav Grosu (BKFC Fight Night: Tampa), Ronnie Forney (BKFC-8) and Drew Lipton (BKFC-6).

Additional fights for BKFC-47 will be announced shortly. Tickets are on sale now! Tickets prices are $112, $86 and $69. Purchase your tickets now at the Box Office, Monday and Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. or by visiting us online at www.rpfundingcenter.com. Dates and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is the first promotion allowed to hold a legal, sanctioned, and regulated bare knuckle event in the United States since 1889. Based in Philadelphia, and headed by President and former professional boxer David Feldman, BKFC is dedicated to preserving the historical legacy of bare knuckle fighting, while utilizing a specifically created rule set that emphasizes fighter safety. BKFC holds all of its bouts in a revolutionary circular four-rope ring, designed to encourage fast-paced and exciting bouts. The patented BKFC “Squared Circle” contains scratch lines,

based on the Broughton Rules which governed bare knuckle fighting in the 19th century, and which requires fighters to “Toe the Line”: start every round face to face, and just inches apart.

In BKFC, only those fighters who are established professionals in boxing, MMA, kickboxing, or Muay Thai are allowed to compete. The referees and judges are required to have extensive professional combat sports experience. All fights are held under the auspices and control of an Athletic Commission. Unlike other fighting organizations and combat sports internationally which claim to be “bare knuckle”, but require wraps, tape, and gauze; BKFC is true to its word as fighters are not allowed to wrap their hands to within one inch of the knuckle. This makes BKFC unquestionably the truest form of bare knuckle fighting. BKFC is dedicated to not just creating the safest, most exciting, and highest-level bare-knuckle fighting organization in the world, it’s also leading the way for a new fully recognized professional combat sport. BKFC is truly the sport of the future, which fully respects its remarkable past.

The RP Funding Center is conveniently located minutes between Orlando and Tampa in Lakeland, Florida, off I-4 on Lime Street; the RP Funding Center is a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box office hours are Monday and Thursday’s, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For ticket information, call the Box Office at (863) 834-8111 or visit our website at www.rpfundingcenter.com.

Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 9-5 pm and Sun, 9-4 pm. Cost – $15 (Sat), $10 (Sun); Youth 12 & under Free. Free parking. www.RPFundingCenter.com and https://floridatoyshows.com

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

each month and park on the streets surrounding beautiful Munn Park. Thurs, 6-9 pm. (next events: Aug 10, Sept 14)

JUL 14to 16 –National Hot Tub Expo. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 10-8 pm and Sun, 10-5 pm. www.RPFundingCenter.com and https://www.nationalhottubexpo. com

Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows

RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 8-6 pm and Sat, 9-6 pm. Cost - $7 admission; free parking. https://www.fancyflea.net and www.RPFundingCenter. com

JUL 23- Pirate Foam Party.

Jul 7–

July First Friday. Head to Downtown Lakeland on the first Friday of every month for First Friday; new theme each month. This month is Bike Night sponsored by Harley Davidson Downtown in Munn Park. Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Enjoy goodies, giveaways, and discounts from local business exhibitors. Shop in the Makers Market, which features local artists and creators, and check out the Classy Car Show on Main St. First Friday is a family-friendly event held in the streets of Downtown Lakeland between Lemon Street and Oak Street along Kentucky Ave. and Main St. Downtown Lakeland, Fri 6-9 pm. DowntownLKLD. com (next event: Aug 4 “Back to School”, Sept 1, TBD)

JUL 13– Lakeland Food Truck Rally. Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally brings food trucks to Munn Park on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Come on out to Downtown Lakeland and enjoy a variety of Florida food trucks and their delicious cuisine. 20 plus food trucks come together

JUL 15& 16 –Spirit Fest: Metaphysical & Holistic Fair. The largest metaphysical and holistic event in Florida comes to Lakeland! Vendors, holistic healers, intuitive readers, crystal displays, authors, artists, and much more! Speakers all day, Sat & Sun. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 8-6 pm and Sun, 9-6 pm. Cost - $10, Youth 10 & under free. Keep parking receipt for $5 off admission. www. RPFundingCenter.com and https://www.sanctuaryfl.com

JUL 18– Tasty Tuesdays

+ Tunes. Third Tuesday of every month in Munn Park. 10 tastes from downtown bars, restaurants, and sweet shops. New offerings every month. Tasty Tuesdays are a super fun way to experience multiple Downtown restaurants all in one night! You get hearty sample sizes with each ticket and move from place to place at your own pace! Tastings begin at 4:30pm and end at 9pm. Purchase your ticket package from LDDA. Tues, 4:30-9 pm. Cost - $25 for 10 tastes. (next events: Aug 15, Sept 19) https://ldda.square. site/product/tasty-tuesday-tickets/31?cs=true&cst=custom

JUL 21& 22 –Fancy Flea

Vintage Summer Soiree. Voted one of the top vintage markets in the country. Located at the

Balmoral Summer Series. Enjoy the family foam party filled with music, fantastic food and fun. Come and have some fun in the sun! This Hawaiian-themed Foam Party will feature, for the first time NEW Mango-Sented Foam! Prices include Pool & Water Park passes. Located Balmoral Bar & Grill, Balmoral Resort, Haines City. Sun, 12-4 pm. Cost - $30 Youth Ticket (10 & under), $35 Adult Ticket. www.BalmoralBarAndGrill.com and https://centralfloridatix. com/events/pirate-foam-party-7-23-2023

AUG 6- Hawaiian Foam Party.

Balmoral Summer Series. Enjoy the family foam party filled with music, fantastic food and fun with Captain Sebastien! Stop by and meet Captain Sebastien, share pirate stories, play in the foam and swim the day away. Also, don’t forget to try the specialty drink only fit for a pirate! Prices include Pool & Water Park passes. Located Balmoral Bar & Grill, Balmoral Resort, Haines City. Sun, 12-4 pm. Cost - $30 Youth Ticket (10 & under), $35 Adult Ticket. www.BalmoralBarAndGrill.com and https://centralfloridatix. com/events/hawaiian-foam-party-8-6-2023

AUG 12& 13 –Central

Florida Collectorfest. Vintage & Modern Toys, Hot Wheels, Retro Gaming, Comics, Artwork & More Pop Culture Goodness! Enjoy giveaways, raffles, and more. 100+ Tables of Lots of Cool Stuff! Located at the RP

Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market – Saturdays. An exceptional variety of local vendors who offer fresh produce, seafood, pastries, breads, desserts, local honey, artisans, and crafts, to name a few. Stop by the Market Information Booth for more details on the F.A.B. program! Located N. Kentucky Ave, Lakeland. Sat, 8 am-2 pm; Sept to May and 8 am-1 pm; Jun & Jul. (closed in August)

Winter Haven Farmers Market – Saturdays. Shop locally grown food, artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. Located across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven. Sat 9 am-1 pm.

JUL 9- Second Sunday Artisan Market. Every second Sunday of the month, enjoy a variety of Florida based businesses selling a variety of hand-made items. Located Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center, Lakeland, Sun, 12-5 pm. www.shoplakesidevillage.net

JUL 20- Lake Wales 3rd Thursday Market. The boutique market will feature a variety of produce, artisan food vendors, plants, crafts and a food truck. This market is within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Located Stuart Ave in the parking lot near the new Gillian Fazio mural in downtown Lk Wales. Thurs, 4-7 pm.

JUL 21– Bartow Friday Fest. The Bartow Friday Fest is a fun open-air event in Downtown Bartow featuring live music, classic cars and plenty of family fun. The event is held the third Friday of every month (except December). Fri, 6-9 pm. For

more info, visit www.mainstreetbartowfl.com

Concerts & Theatre

JUL 8, 22 & Aug 19

– Classically Summer at Bok Tower Gardens. An all-new series of classical music performance by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Enjoy a family-friendly Symphony Story Time performances and three intimate Summer Serenade chamber performances in the air-conditioned comfort of the Visitor Center Theater. (Symphony Story Time: Aug 5 at 9:30 am & 11 am) Located Bok Tower Gardens, Lk Wales at 6 pm. Admission/ticket required. www. BokTowerGardens.org

JUL 7– Tribute Concert at the Ritz: Creedence Clearwater Revival by Bad Moon Rising. Bad Moon Rising, a Classic Tributes Live band, invites you to take a trip down the Mississippi delta as they pay tribute to arguably the greatest rock band North America ever produced. Creedence Clearwater Revival. Enjoy cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks for sale at The Ritz Lounge before and during the concert. Located Historic Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Fri, 7 pm; Doors at 6 pm. Tickets - $25 GA, $35 Reserved. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

JUL 13to

AUG 6 –Hairspray.

Presented by Theatre Winter Haven. It’s 1962 in Baltimore, and the lovable plus-size teen, Tracy Turnblad, has only one desire – to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob, Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network... all without denting her ‘do! Located Theatre Winter Haven, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd SW, Winter Haven. Thurs-Sun, 2:30 & 7:30 pm show times. Tickets - $36 Adults, Youth $33. www. TheatreWinterHaven.com

JUL 16– CAL’s Supertramp

“Breakfast in America”.

Performed “Note for note... cut for cut,” the Classic Albums Live Concert Series features an album which has sold over 18 million copies worldwide Supertramp’s, “Breakfast in America” on July 16 and Led Zeppelin, “Physical Graffiti” on Aug 27. Located at the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Tickets - $52, $41 plus parking. www.RPFundingCenter.com

JUL 21– Niels Sayers

Magic & Comedy Show. Featuring his signature multiaward-winning Latin manipulation act, combined with amazing illusions, hilarious comedy, music, and a stylish Spanish accent, Niels’ performance is one you will always remember! Niels presents a show full of miracles and surprises and his unique sense of humor. Performing since the age of eleven, his magic has taken him to the most beautiful theaters, nightclubs, hotels, corporate events, trade shows, cruise ships, theme parks, and conventions worldwide. Be sure to come early to grab a drink and a bite before the show! Located Balmoral Event Center, 116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City. Fri, 7:30-9:30 pm; Doors at 6:30 pm. Tickets - $25. www. BalmoralEventCenter.com and https://centralfloridatix.com/ events/niels-sayers-magic-comedy-show-7-21-2023

JUL 22– Summer Concert

Series at the Ritz: Eugene Snowden & Band. Slide into a night of soul music with music by the blues master, Eugene Snowden and his band. Don’t miss this world class musician who has shared the stage with the likes of James Brown, BB King, Al Green, and Sharon Jones. Enjoy cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks for sale at The Ritz Lounge before and during the concert. Located Historic Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Sat, 7 pm; Doors at 6 pm. Tickets$25 GA, $35 Reserved. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

JUL 22– Maestro Ilaiyaraaja

Live in Concert. Presented by the Sri Ayyappa Society of Tampa. One of the greatest Film Composers in the Indian Film Industry. He has earned high acclaim as a composer, arranger, conductor, lyricist, and singer, having scored the music for 1,418 feature films in nine languages. Ilaiyaraaja has composed over 8,500 songs and written lyrics for over 1,500 songs. Notably, he has conducted the London Philharmonic Orchestra in front of Queen Elizabeth and has been referred to as the Maestro and Isaignani (Musical Genius) by music lovers. Located in George Jenkins Arena, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 5:30 pm. Tickets start at $55 and up, plus parking. www.RPFundingCenter.com and https://ilaiyaraajalive.com

JUL 29– Summer Concert

Series at the Ritz: Ivan Garcia & Friends. Experience a trip through the Latin countryside with Ivan Garcia’s selections of Spanish Flamenco and Latin jazz for this performance from one of Puerto Rico’s most awarded musicians and guitarists, who will be joined by musician accompaniments with violin and congas. Enjoy cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks for sale at The Ritz Lounge before and during the concert. Located Historic Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven. Sat, 7 pm; Doors at 6 pm. Tickets$25 GA, $35 Reserved. www. RitzWinterHaven.com

AUG 17– Rod Stewart

Tribute at Balmoral. Steve Bobbitt has performed throughout the US and on cruise ships throughout the world fans will leave wanting more when they see Steve as “Rod”! Be sure to come early to grab a drink and a bite before the show! Located Balmoral Event Center, 116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City. Thurs, 7:30-9:30 pm; Doors at 6:30 pm. Tickets - $25. www. BalmoralEventCenter.com and https://centralfloridatix. com/events/rod-stewart-tribute-8-17-202

Charity Events & Golf Tournaments

JUL 22– Subaru Lakeland Adoption Event. Hosted at the Humane Society of Polk County. Day of fun, raffle prizes and special adoption fees. Located at The Humane Society of Polk County, 3195 Dundee Rd, Winter Haven. www.PolkNoKill. org

JUL 23– 6th Annual Sock Hop Fundraiser. Presented by Silly Sock Saturdays. Dinner, Games, Photo Booth, Raffle, Prizes, Treats, Music and more. 50’s theme dress is encouraged. Wear you “Silly” Socks! Located at Venue 650, 650 6th Street SW, Winter Haven. Sun, 4-8 pm. Tickets - $15, $96 for Table of 8. www.SillySockSaturdays. com

AUG 6– Bowl A Rama 2023. Annual event benefiting the Humane Society of Polk County. 4-person team includes: 2 bowling games, shoe rental, food buffet and raffles. NEW this year! Cash prizes for top teams. Space is limited! Book your team or sponsorship today!! Located at Cypress Lanes Family Fun Center, Dundee Rd, Winter Haven. Sun, 12:30-3:30 pm; Registration starts at 12 pm. www.PolkNoKill.org/events

Sports

JUL to SEPT – Lakeland

Flying Tigers Baseball. For promotions and dates/times. Located Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. www.LakelandFlyingTigers.com

JUL 14– Bare Knuckle

Fighting. BKFC-47: David Mundell vs. Mike Richman Headline in BKFC Middleweight World Championship. Additional fights announced soon. Located in George Jenkins Arena, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 8pm; Doors at 7pm. Tickets$112, $86 and $69 plus parking. www.RPFundingCenter.com and www.BKFC.com

ILAIYARAAJA "THE MAESTRO" LIVE IN CONCERT

Special to T&T Mag

The RP Funding Center welcomes Ilaiyaraaja “The Maestro” live in concert on July 22, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now!

Shri Ilaiyaraaja is one of the greatest Film Composers in the Indian Film Industry. He has earned high acclaim as a composer, arranger, conductor, lyricist and singer, having scored the music for 1,418 feature films in nine languages. Ilaiyaraaja has composed over 8,500 songs and written lyrics for over 1,500 songs. Notably, he has conducted the London Philharmonic Orchestra in front of Queen Elizabeth and has been referred to as the Maestro and Isaignani (Musical Genius) by music lovers.

A CNN poll in 2013 recognized Shri Ilaiyaraaja as the All-Time Greatest Film Music Composers in India. Shri Ilaiyaraaja has garnered wide acclaim in India and abroad. His music in various films earned him five National Awards and he was

honored with the Sangeet Natak Academy Award, which is the highest Indian recognition given to practicing artistes. Further, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, which are the third and second highest Civilian Awards conferred by the Government of India. Tickets are on sale now! Ticket prices start at $55. Group discounts of 10 or more tickets are available. For group discounts call 863-834-8137. Tickets are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Office and online at www.rpfundingcenter.com. All dates, acts, and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

The RP Funding Center is conveniently located minutes between Orlando and Tampa in Lakeland, Florida, off I-4 on Lime Street; the RP Funding Center is a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box office hours are Monday and Thursday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For ticket information, call the Box Office at 863.834.8111 or visit our website at www. rpfundingcenter.com.

BARS&PUBS

*Please check Facebook pages to confirm business schedules, events and promos.

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

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge

318 Havendale Blvd

(863) 967-2739

Wed, Trivia 6p

Daily/Weekly Specials

Pool, Darts, Full Liquor

Sunday Ticket/SEC/ACC

Smoke-Free/Outside Patio

Crave & Copper

117 East Lake Ave

(863) 968-2971

Local Microbrewery

Patio Bar/Restaurant

Wed-Sun, Open at 11a

Fri-Sun, Live Music

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 E Van Fleet Dr (863) 534-3111

Full Liquor Sports Bar

Fun Bar

3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400

Karaoke

Pool Table & Darts

Mulligan’s Sports Bar

Bartow Golf Club

150 N Idlewood (863) 533-1668

Fri, Karaoke 7-10p

Stanford Wines

165 S Central Ave

(863) 800-3395

Open Daily 4-10 pm

Fine Wine & Charcuterie

StanfordWines.com

FB@stanfordwines

The Wine Stable

150 S Broadway (863) 533-9463

Full Bar

Live Music

Food Avail.

DAVENPORT

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

45653 US Hwy 27

(863) 420-3350

Full Liquor

Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps

Fireside Lounge & Billiards

43356 US Hwy 27

(863) 420-0100

Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables

Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 2-7p

Live Music

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

Out-n-About Bar

(1/4 m north of Dundee Rd)

28390 US Hwy 27

(863) 439-1537

Tue, Fri, Sat & Sun, Live Music

Wed & Sun, Karaoke

Thu, Ladies Night

FROSTPROOF

P & J Recreation

33 S Scenic Hwy

(863) 635-9825

Home of Famous Slaw Burger!

Full Liquor

FT. MEADE

Pit Stop Package & Lounge

800 N Charleston Ave

(863) 285-8732

Food Avail.

HAINES CITY

Amos Tavern

200 US Hwy 17 92 N

(863) 422-1459

Balmoral Bar & Grill

124 Kenny Blvd

(863) 588-3097

Patio Dining & Full Bar

Mon, Jukebox Bingo 6-8p

Tue, Trivia 6-8p

Wed, Karaoke 6-9p

Thu & Sat, Live Music 6-9p

Fri, DJ/Latin Nights 7-10p

Jun 18, Father’s Day Party

Jun 23, Noche de San Juan Prty

Jul 1, Elvis By The Pool

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

902 Polk City Rd

(863) 419-4848

Full Liquor Sports Bar

Big Screen TVs

Ducky’s Dockside Bar & Grill

1090 Shady Cove Rd E

(863) 353-5295

Thu, Acoustic Jam 6p

Fri, Karaoke 6p

Sat & Sun, Live Music

Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge

600 Ingraham Ave

(863) 422-8585

Karaoke, Darts, Billiards

Live Bands

Happy Hour 12-7p

Shady Cove Bar & Grill

7140 State Road 544 E

(863) 421-6800

Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 4-7p

Open Daily 12p

Daily Food/Drink Specials

LAKE ALFRED

LA’s Midway Saloon

(Across from WH Airport)

3900 Lynchburg Rd

(863) 875-7966

Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F

LAKELAND

1916 Irish Pub Cleveland Heights Golf Course 2900 Buckingham Ave (863) 834-2384

Daily, 11a-10p

Thu, Ladies Night 5-9p

Sat/Sun, Brunch 10-3p

Food, Full Bar

Ax-Caliber

204 E Orange St, Ste 102 (863) 592-3500

Tue-Wed 11a-10p/Thu-Fri 11a-

11p

Sat 10a-11p, Sun 10a-7p

Axe Throwing, Virtual Gun Range

Coffee House, Restaurant

Beer & Wine

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 Florida Ave

(863) 646-7757

Full Liquor Sports Bar

2-4-1 All Day, Everyday 40+ HD TVs w/sports pkgs

The Brass Tap 1515 Town Center Dr Lakeside Village

(863) 680-9994

Daily, Open at 12p

Martini Wed, $5

Craft Beers, Full Bar Food, Live Music

Brewlands Bar & Billiards N. 5161 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-2038

Smoke-Free Billiards/Sports Bar

20 Pool Tables, Dart Boards

Game Room, Full Kitchen

Open Daily, Full Liquor

Brewlands Bar & Billiards S. 5733 S Florida Ave (863) 646-2600

Pool & Billiard Sports Hall

Full Liquor Bar

Open Daily

Sun & Wed, S.I.N. Night

Thu, Ladies Night

Champs Sports Bar & Grill 6645 S Florida Ave (863) 647-5900

Open Daily, 11a-10p

Daily Specials 2-10p

Tue, Ladies Night 4p-cl

Tue/Thu, BOGO Beer

Thu, Free Trivia 8p

Cob & Pen 1221 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8126

Craft Beer & Wine Full Liquor Bar Food/Light Food

Decisions Grill & Bar 1621 E Edgewood Dr Suite G (863) 686-6441

Duke’s Brewhouse 4960 S Florida Ave (863) 647-9464

Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music

Frescos Bistro 132 S Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267

Happy Hr 5-7

Monthly Pairings

Great Bistro Fare Full Bar/Crafted Cocktails

JULY/AUGUST CONCERT CALENDAR

MONDAY, JUL 3

ANDY SHREEVE

(Camp Margaritaville, ADL)

ANDREW LUV & THE FRANCHISE PLAYERS (Red, White & Kaboom, LKD)

TUESDAY, JUL 4

ACE JACKSON & THE JUMP KINGS

(Bartow’s July 4th, BTW)

ALMOST THERE

(Thunder on Ridge, HC)

SOFA KINGS

(Flying Tigers July 4th, LKD)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

B. HAVEN BAND

(Twisted Prop, WH)

DAVID BRIMER 12p/

MICAH MADORE 5p (Cherry Pocket, LW)

WEDNESDAY, JUL 5

ADRIENNE RICHARDS

(Cherry Pocket, LW)

THURSDAY, JUL 6

CHASE DIXON

(Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

ACOUSTIC DOSE (Swan Brewing, LKD)

FRIDAY, JUL 7

ANDY SHREEVE

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

BAD MOON RISING; CCR TRIB.

(Ritz Theatre, WH)

TMIKE & DUKE (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

MANFREDI ROCKS

(Wheelhouse Bar 19th Hole, DVPT)

BLACK SATIN

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

SPANKIN’ SADIE

(Apple Lounge, WH)

SOFA KINGS DUO

(Front Page Brewing, BTW)

BRETT BRASS

(Yard on Mass, WH)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS

(The Hotel BBQ, DVPT)

SATURDAY, JUL 8

FREE WHISKEY 2p/

SPANKIN’ SADIE 7p

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

ALMOST THERE

(Tanners Lakeside, WH)

ORLANDO PHIL ORCH;

BRASS

(Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

FREE WHISKEY BAND 7p

(Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

B. HAVEN BAND

(Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

SOUTHERN BLEND (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

SHAWN RAHN 2p/ ELEMENT DUO

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

WE THREE STRINGS

(Yard on Mass, WH)

RUSTY WRIGHT BAND

(Music Ranch, LKD)

MATCHBOX TWENTY

wsg BEN RECTOR

(MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, JUL 9

SOUTHERN BLEND

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

ANDY SHREEVE

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

TMIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots, WH)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS

(Dvpt Ale House, DVPT)

FOREIGNER wsg

LOVERBOY (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

MONDAY, JUL 10

BLINK-182 wsg TURNSTILE (Amalie Arena, TMP)

TUESDAY, JUL 11

MICKENZIE PEISHER

(Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

THURSDAY, JUL 13

DAMON FOWLER

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

SIDE PROJECT DUO

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS

(The Social Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, JUL 14

MANFREDI ROCKS

(Wheelhouse Bar, DVPT)

RANDY MCNEELEY

(Apple Lounge, WH)

SIXX L SIXX

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

KALEIGH BAKER

(Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

MIKE RICHARDS DUO

(Yard on Mass, WH)

DIERKS BENTLEY wsgs

JORDAN DAVIS AND CAYLEE HAMMACK

(MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SATURDAY, JUL 15

JOSH BLEVINS

(Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

MAGIC TOAST

(Tanners Lakeside, WH)

BILLY DICKERSON

(Camp Margaritaville, ADL)

JOEY FOLEY

(Apple Lounge, WH)

RUSTY & LAUIRE WRIGHT

(Cypresswood Pub, WH)

STRIZZO wsgs SAVANNAH

DEXTER & BRABO GATOR

(Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD)

MIKE MONTS 2p/

DUST2DUST 7p

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

THE FLORIDA ELVIS

(Yard on Mass, WH)

STEVIE B., LISA LISA, TKA K7, DEBBIE DEB, TRINERE, THE JETS, JOHNNY O, CYNTHIA, COLOR ME BADD, FREESTYLE, ROB BASE

(Amway Center, ORL)

BOY GEORGE & CULTURE

CLUB wsgs HOWARD JONES AND BERLIN

(MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, JUL 16

THE WANTED

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

JIM& JUDY TAYLOR

(Tanners Lakeside, WH)

SHORELINE SUNDAY

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: SUPERTRAMP

(RP Funding Center, LKD)

TED NUGENT

(Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)

PATRICK HAGERMAN & KALEIGH BAKER

(Hard Rock Cafe, TMP)

TUESDAY, JUL 18

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, JUL 19

JADE & DUKE

(Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

THURSDAY, JUL 20

BRADEN CRAWFORD (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

TMIKE & DUKE (The Social Lounge, WH)

SCOTT SCULDO (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) FREE WHISKEY DUO (Swan Brewing, LKD)

FRIDAY, JUL 21

SOUTH OF THE BLUES (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

CONSPIRACY THEORY (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

BILLY DICKERSON (Crave & Copper, ADL)

TWINKLE AND ROCKSOUNDRADIO

(Leo’s Live/Ybor Cigars, LKD)

BLAKE FREE (Apple Lounge, WH)

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH)

DANIEL PEPIN

(Yard on Mass, WH)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Wheelhouse Bar, DVPT)

RUSTY & LAURIE WRIGHT (Council Oaks Lounge, TMP)

MUDVAYNE wsgs COAL

CHAMBER, GWAR, NONPOINT, BUTCHER BABIES (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SATURDAY, JUL 22

SOUTHERN BLEND (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

ORLANDO PHIL ORCH; WOODWINDS

(Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

B. HAVEN BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

SALTY SENIORS

(Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

EUGENE SNOWDEN

(Ritz Theatre, WH)

MANFREDI ROCKS

(The Port Steak & Seafood, HC)

BILLY DICKERSON

(Camp Margaritaville, ADL)

DARRA

(Apple Lounge, WH)

ALMOST THERE

(Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (DVPT Ale House, DVPT)

LYNYRD SKYNYRD AND ZZ TOP w/UNCLE KRACKER (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, JUL 23

JIM & JUDY TAYLOR 2p/ CONSPIRACY THEORY 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TWIZTED (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

TUESDAY, JUL 25

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) FALL OUT BOY wsgs BRING ME THE HORIZON, ROYAL & THE SERPENT, AND CARR (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

WEDNESDAY, JUL 26

SAM SMITH wsg

JESSIE REYEZ (Amway Center, ORL)

THURSDAY, JUL 27

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Cherry Pocket, LW)

FRIDAY, JUL 28

CONSPIRACY THEORY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FREE WHISKEY BAND (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

KALEIGH BAKER (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) RUNNING RECKLESS (Apple Lounge, WH)

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH)

SKIP FRYE DUO (Yard on Mass, WH)

LIL DURK wsgs

KODACK BLACK, NLE CHOPPA, DD OSAMA (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SATURDAY, JUL 29

JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

MICAH & MIKE (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC)

BLACKWATER (Tanners Lakeside, WH)

IVAN GARCIA

(Ritz Theatre, WH)

BILLY DICKERSON

(Yard on Mass, LKD)

LOVE PIT wsgs ALMONDY

BROWN, FILTHY ROYALTY, 48 STATES AWAY

(Leo’s Live/Ybor Cigars, LKD)

ACOUSTIC DOSE 12p

(Apple Lounge, WH)

ADRIENNE RICHARDS 6p (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

BILLY D. DUO (Yard on Mass, WH)

MANFREDI ROCKS

(The Port Steak & Seafood, HC)

ALMOST THERE (Hard Rock Cafe, TMP)

NICKELBACK wsgs

BRANTLEY GILBERT AND JOSH ROSS (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, JUL 30

BLACK SATIN DUO 2p/ ALMOST THERE 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

JOEY FOLEY

(Tanners Lakeside, WH)

JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

BIG TIME RUSH wsgs MAX & JAX (Amway Center, ORL)

TUESDAY, AUG 1

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

POST MALONE (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

THURSDAY, AUG 3

MONEYBAGG YO wsgs

FINESSE2TYMES, SEXXY

RED, LUH TYLER, BIG BOOGIE, YTB FATT (Amway Center, ORL)

FRIDAY, AUG 4

BILLY DICKERSON (Crave & Copper, ADL)

JADE & DUKE (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

LAURA THE SINGER

(The Social Lounge, WH)

BRET MICHAELS wsgs

NIGHT RANGER, JEFFERSON

STARSHIP, MARK MCGRATH, STEVE AUGERI

(MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SATURDAY, AUG 5

ORLANDO PHIL ORCH; EMPEROR & NIGHTINGALE

(Bok Tower Gardens, LW)

B. HAVEN BAND (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

PORCHDOGS (Ritz Theatre, WH)

PEPE AGUILAR

(Amway Center, ORL)

STEVIE B., TAYLOR DAYNE, TKA K7, DEBBIE DEB, SHANNON, TRINERE, JOHNNY O, CYNTHIA, 69

BOYZ,

FREESTYLE, ROB BASE (Amalie Arena, TMP)

DISTURBED wsg

BREAKING BENJAMIN (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, AUG 6

B. HAVEN BAND (Twisted Prop, WH)

JIM THOMAS (Harborside, WH)

TUESDAY, AUG 8

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, AUG 9

COUNTNG CROWS wsg

DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

THURSDAY, AUG 10

ANDY SHREEVE (Swan Brewing, LKD)

PHIL WICKHAM AND BRANDON LAKE wsg KB

(Amalie Arena, TMP)

PENTATONIX wsg

LAUREN ALAINA

(MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

FRIDAY, AUG 11

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) 33 YEARS

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

ALL-AMERICAN REJECTS wsgs NEW FOUND GLORY, THE STARTING LINE, THE GET UP KIDS

(MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SATURDAY, AUG 12

ADAM DUSS EXPERIENCE (Ritz Theatre, WH) PLIES, JUVENILE, SUKTHANA, BBALL & WIG, GOODIE MOR, BALL GREEZY AND IT MONEY

(Amalie Arena, TMP) KEYSOUNDSOUL (Cypresswood, WH) SNOOP DOGG, WIZ KHALIFA, TOO $HORT, WARREN G, BERNER, DJ DRAMA (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

TUESDAY, AUG 15

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

WEDNESDAY, AUG 16

THE OFFSPRINGS wsg SIMPLE PLAN AND SUM 41 (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

Thursday, Aug 17

JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

FRIDAY, AUG 18

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) MANFREDI ROCKS (Wheelhouse Bar, DVPT)

SATURDAY, AUG 19

ORLANDO PHIL ORCH; STRINGS (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) RON SEGGI AND THE NEW AMERICAN BANDSTAND; DICK CLARK TRIBUTE (Ritz Theatre, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Swan Brewing, LKD) 50 CENT w/BUSTA RYMES AND JEREMIH (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, AUG 20

RUBÉN BLADES & ROBERTO DELGADO BIG BAND (Amway Center, ORL) THE SMASHING PUMPKINS wsg INTERPOL, RIVAL SONS (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

TUESDAY, AUG 22

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)

FRIDAY, AUG 25

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH)

SATURDAY, AUG 26

HOT CLUB SRQ wsg

NATALIE BARBER (Ritz Theatre, WH)

LIONEL RICHIE wsg

EARTH, WIND & FIRE (Amalie Arena, TMP) ROB ZOMBIE AND ALICE COOPER wsg MINISTRY AND FILTER (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, AUG 27

JIM THIOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

TUESDAY, AUG 29

ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) $UICIDEBOY$ wsgs

GHOSTEMANE, CITY MORGUE, SEMATARY AND RAMIREZ (Amalie Arena, TMP)

THURSDAY, AUG 31

MICKENZIE PEISHER (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH)

GHOST wsg

AMON AMARTH (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

FRIDAY, SEPT 1

ROD WAVE & FRIENDS (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, SEPT 2

ANDY SHREEVE (Camp Margaritaville, ADL) FLYING BIRDS w/METRIC (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, SEPT 3

ANDY SHREEVE (Ducky’s Dockside Bar & Gr, HC)

B Haven

POLK COUNTY’S RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

AUBURNDALE

TANTRUMS LAKESIDE GRILL

This is a one of a kind, waterfront, casual dining experience where you can enjoy well-prepared food, water sports in action and a beautiful sunset on our multi-level covered deck overlooking Lake Myrtle in Auburndale. Delicious Seafood and more . . . featuring Oyster and Shrimp Po'Boys. We also have a large selection of Handdipped Ice cream, beer, wine and specialty beverages. Hours - Open Everyday at 11:00 am

Must try: Gator Bites, Oyster Nachos, and Shrimp & Grit Cakes 330 Denton Avenue, Auburndale 863-8753974

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

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

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR

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, Tuesday & Thursday BOGO Bud & Bud Light Bottles, Friday, $9 Grouper Sandwich (All Day), Saturday 75¢ Wings (All Day).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

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 atmo-

sphere. 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) 6766361

JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

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

WINTER HAVEN

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 MondaysFridays 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

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

1. Which song includes the phrase, “I know” over 20 times?

2. Who wrote and released “Spirit in the Sky”?

3. Where did the Thompson Twins get their name?

4. Who sang “I’m Never Giving Up” in a Eurovision contest?

5. Name the song that contains these lyrics: “I will love you longer than forever, Promise me that you will leave me never.”

ANSWERS

1. “Ain’t No Sunshine,” by Bill Withers in 1971. He’d intended to write another verse instead of all the “I know” phrases but was talked into leaving it alone.

2. Norman Greenbaum, in 1969. Greenbaum said he was inspired

by watching Westerns on television to write the song.

3. From two detectives in the comic strip “The Adventures of Tintin,” who looked alike but were not twins. The Thompson Twins group was never a duo, but ranged from three to seven members.

4. Sweet Dreams, in 1983. They represented the United Kingdom.

5. “The Hawaiian Wedding Song,” by Andy Williams, in 1958. The song was also covered by Brook Benton, Elvis Presley and others. The original song, “Ke Kali Nei Aua” (“Waiting There for Thee”), was written in 1926 by Charles E. King, a Hawaiian legislator and songwriter.

SWEET PEA

Sweet Pea is an 11 month old domestic shorthair mix. She is as her name implies sweet. This little one also responds with a meow when you call out "Hey Girl" She does good around everyone she has met but we aren't sure how she would be with kids since she has never been around them. Sweet Pea has been around other cats but is selective with the ones she chooses to befriend.

MAX

Meet Max! This marvelous boy is a 10 month old black and white, domestic shorthair mix. He is up to date on his shots and neutered. Max is a ball of love who enjoys being near you. He loves to make new friends no matter if its people, cats, or even dogs. This boy will give you the best of both worlds because he will play with you then curl up in your lap for a nap.

TORAH

Meet, Torah! A 1 year old, female, Bully mix. Torah loves to play! Her favorite toys have squeakers in them but, if you give her a stuffed to she will shred it in record time! LOL She enjoys being brushed and petted, she will even lay like a frog so you can do a good job brushing her. Torah loves to play in water so baby pools are a must.

• They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but in today’s digital age, storing and displaying our treasure trove of images can take some craft work. For a lovely, cheap display, find frames of varying designs in secondhand stores. Remove the glass and lay them out on newspaper. Spray-paint them all the same color and, when dry, frame and hang your favorites in a very cohesive grouping!

• “When on vacation, it’s really easy to take hundreds of pictures, but when you upload them to the computer, it’s hard to find the gems in the mass of files. Spend some time each day reviewing the pictures on your camera, and delete the redundant ones and pics that are obviously not keepers.” -- E.L. in Illinois

• “When my sisters and I get together (there are five of us), we each bring a flash drive with about 50 good, recent family pictures. One sister is a technical whiz, and she put all the pictures together and loads them back on the flash drives, labeled with the date. And then we all watch a picture slideshow together and share our stories.” -- G.B. in Georgia

• Save your favorite family photos to a disk and give a copy to a trusted friend. That way, if anything should happen to your computer/ home/etc., you’ll still have those pictures.

• “My mother-in-law has a digital photo frame, and about every six months we send her a new flash drive to plug into the back of it. She does not have a computer, so she enjoys the picture show and can go back to the old pictures as well whenever she wants just by plugging a different drive into the frame. What a great way to share photos with a different generation.” -- A.T. in Missouri

ROCKY

Meet Rocky! This sweet boy is a 6 month old hound mix. He is gonna be a big dog when he gets older and will require a lot of space to run and expend his energy. He is a very outgoing baby who loves to meet knew friends whether is a person, cat, or dog. He loves to go on morning runs and play with his toys. Once he is all tuckered out he will sprawl out on the floor for a nice long nap.

Tues-Sat

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.

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.”

Dr. Nations