EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EDITOR’S NOTE
=
8
TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 19 Issue 1 August 2022 8
Ax-Caliber
16
Live Music Calender
20
Talented Queen Trishelle Michaels
32
Craft Breweries Night Markets
COLUMNS: 13
What's Rustling Jimmy's Jimmies?
Ax-Caliber
16
General Trivia
13
Strange But True
27
Now Here's A Tip
27
Music Trivia
27
Pets of the Month
LISTINGS: 14
Upcoming Events
16
Live Local Music
26
Restaurant Listings
28
Bar Listings
Expect More, Get More, We Deliver. Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor
Live Music Calender
THE FUN & AMUSING: 13
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.
STAFF
20
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:
CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE
COLUMNS
Talented Queen Trishelle Michaels
TRACEY GREENE JAMES COULTER
ERICA SMITH
EDITORIAL ERICA SMITH ELIZABETH MORRISEY
32
AMY SUMERLIN JAMES COULTER
PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS
Craft Breweries Night Markets
MIKE POTTHAST
SALES TRACEY GREENE - VP of Advertising BOB CURTIS - Senior Executive Media Director WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR NEW SALES REPS. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE SEND INFO TO TRACEY@TODAYANDTONIGHT.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.
For More Events and Happenings Visit www.Todayandtonight.com
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, 2022 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.
2 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 3
4 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
THE
GALA Presented by: Anonymous
Save the Dates:
SCAN TO EXPERIENCE THE GALA
Online Silent Auction:
OCTOBER 28 - NOVEMBER 3, 2022
The Gala:
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2022 All proceeds will be utilized locally to establish an American Psychological Association accredited training program for Doctoral level clinical Psychologists in Winter Haven.
For more information: (863) 292-4138 or whhfoundation@baycare.org
Please join us at Polk County’s premier fundraising event, the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Gala. This year’s Gala event will feature live music by Atlanta-based “Rhythm Nation”, four-course gourmet dinner, exquisite wines and open bar, and exciting live auction filled with incredible trips and experiences.
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 5
6 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 7
AX-CALIBER AXE THROWING, VIRTUAL GUN RANGE AND RESTAURANT
8 AUGUST 2022
By James Coulter Photos by Chris Douglas After a long week at work, what feels more rejuvenating than stopping by a bar for a few drinks, shooting some billiards, and tossing some axes? Seriously! You can do all of that and more at Ax-Caliber Axe Venue and Coffee House! Located in Downtown Lakeland, Ax-Caliber, true to its name, is a full axe arena with 18 lanes that allow anyone to awaken their inner Viking warrior by picking up an axe and launching them at targets. Even if you’ve never picked up an axe before, their on-site “ax-perts” will show you the ropes and teach you how to throw like a pro. Whether you’re the minimum age of 18 years old (or 12 years old with parental or guardian supervision) or you’re in your golden senior years, anyone of any age or strength can find that tossing axes is not only easy but quite cathartic. After all, what better way to release stress than releasing an axe and allowing its edge to splinter wood? “It is a great boost to someone who thinks ‘I can’t do this.’ Yes, you can. You can do this!” said Joyce Woodrow, Owner and Manager. “It is a great boost to someone who does not think they can do this...And when you do, it is a very empowering feeling....When you
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
come in and smell the food and the coffee and you look at people throwing, and they are yelling and screaming, and it is just fun. You don't just want to do it; you want to stick it in the board.” Don’t feel like tossing axes? No problem. Ax-Caliber has many other activities to engage in, from billiards and board games to a virtual gun range, where you can even take safety and self-defense classes. Their virtual gun range is open to anyone 9+ with a parent or guardian present with 4 bays available. They have full recoil guns that feel like a real gun and safety guns with no recoil. You can virtually shoot cans, skeet, stop zombie attacks, race your teammate, and more! So whether you want to splinter wood with an axe or shoot virtual zombies with a laser gun, Ax-Caliber allows you to awaken your inner warrior. After working up an appetite from shooting and throwing axes, help yourself to their full-service cafe with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and kid's menus. Enjoy a diverse selection of craft beer and wine, and take a sip of their in-house coffee, roasted from fresh organic ingredients and prepared by a local roaster. They even have a signature coffee lager by Florida Brewery, 300 Damn Kids. From their chicken and waffles and avocado toast in the morning to their wings, sandwiches, and burgers at night, their menu with fresh food items will more than exceed your expectations of the meals often served at such an establishment. No matter what you order, you’ll always eat something served fresh from the best ingredients and without any processed meats. “I do not like to serve anything that is not fresh or of the highest caliber. I always say, no matter what we do, it has to be of the highest caliber,” Joyce said. “So we make a lot of our items fresh and in-house. We roast our own EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
turkey, our own roast beef, our own pork. We make a lot of our own sauces and dips, that are made daily.” When they had the idea to open their own business six years ago, Joyce and her husband Kraig initially started Caliber Coffee. They created their own coffee blend, with the intent of roasting a unique flavor of coffee that “tasted very fresh and did not taste burnt.” So they
created Caliber Coffee, which is still served at their location today. While coffee is good, guns are even greater, which is why they also wanted to open a gun range with their coffee house and cafe. While the gun range never happened, they decided to open the next best thing: an axe throwing arena and virtual gun range with a restaurant that was on point. Two years ago, Ax-Caliber opened its doors, and it has been a runaway success ever since. Even despite the ongoing pandemic, Ax-Caliber has been able to draw in plenty of customers wanting to eat fresh in-house food and toss axes. “Business has been exceptional--almost ax-ceptional to say,” Joyce said. “People are still coming in. Hopefully, we will keep moving them in the same direction. More and more, people learn more about us, and they love us, and they think it is a great place to come to. It is the largest in Polk County, and even Central Florida.” A second, albeit smaller, location is currently being planned for Clermont. Their plans have not been finalized yet, but they have high hopes of someday opening a second location. Until then, they will continue to offer the same great service at their original location. “No matter how long we have been in business, we will always continue to do what we have been since day one. We love our customers and love what we do, and we try to do the best with everyone,” Joyce said. “If you want a fun night out, come out to Ax-Caliber and let us show you what it is all about, and have some amazing food while you are there. It is ax-cellent and ax-ceptional and it is a great place for family and friends.” Ax-Caliber is located at 204 E Orange St #102, Lakeland, FL 33801. For more information, call (863) 592-3500, or visit their website at: Axcaliber.com AUGUST 2022 9
10 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 11
12 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
STRANGE BUT TRUE
• The Psychotria elata flower, also affectionately known as the “hot lips plant,” which grows in the rainforests of Central and South America, resembles a puckering mouth covered in lipstick.
scare it away from divers, but the plan partially backfired, killing two of the men and injuring the others when the shark headed for them instead with an explosive device on its back.
• After losing a drunken poker bet in 2009, a New Zealand man had his name legally changed to “Full Metal Havok More Sexy N Intelligent Than Spock And All The Superheroes Combined With Frostnova.” After five years, the new moniker was finally approved by the government, and all 99 characters are on his passport.
• “Ouijazilla,” in Salem, Massachusetts, holds the unofficial title of the “World’s Largest Ouija Board” at 3,168 square feet and approximately 9,000 lbs.
• In Oklahoma, it is illegal to wear boots to bed (but shoes are OK). • According to a 2014 survey by the Christian retailer LifeWay, 7% of Christian Americans pray for a parking spot. • In 1956, four men on a boat off the coast of Cornwall threw explosives at a shark to kill it, or at least
• Charlie Daniels objected to the use of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” in the Guitar Hero III video game because it was possible for the player to lose to a devil-like character, which “perverted” his song. • No matter what it might feel like, to the contrary, when you’re suffering from one, the majority of microbiologists say viruses are not actually alive, as they produce no energy and can only reproduce when inside a living creature.
TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez
they’re born? 9. FAMOUS QUOTES: Which 19th-century author and philosopher once said, “One must maintain a little bit of summer, even in the middle of winter”? 10. AD SLOGANS: Which product’s advertising slogan is “Obey your thirst”? ANSWERS 1. Baffin Island. 2. Sid. 3. Someone who designs or enjoys solving crossword puzzles. 4. Archie Bunker, “All in the Family.” 5. The tax receipts were used to buy off Viking invaders and provide for defense. 6. The Beatles. 7. Theodore Roosevelt. It was invented in his honor after he refused to kill a bear on a hunting trip. 8. About 1 inch. 9. Henry David Thoreau. 10. Sprite.
1. GEOGRAPHY: What is the largest island in Canada? 2. MOVIES: What is the name of the bully neighbor boy in Disney’s “Toy Story”? 3. LANGUAGE: What is a cruciverbalist? 4. TELEVISION: Which TV sitcom character calls his son-in-law “Meathead”? 5. HISTORY: What is the Danegeld, a tax levied in AngloSaxon England from the ninth through 11th centuries? 6. MUSIC: Which pop music band was the first to appear on children’s lunchboxes? 7. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president is linked to the teddy bear? 8. ANIMAL KINGDOM: How big are baby kangaroos when
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
Let's Talk About Gas Prices As Jerry Seinfeld would ask, “What’s the deal with gas prices?” You’ve seen them at the pumps. These days, most gas sells for $3 to $4 per gallon. At some places, it’s higher than $7.25—more than the minimum wage! Over the past year, the cost of gas has risen by 59.9%, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In short, gas prices are too dang high! So what should we do about it? The GOP blames Biden, of course! They claim voting him out will solve the problem because—uh, reasons? Dems, meanwhile, blame oil companies. They’d insist we need to raise their taxes to lower prices because—uh, reasons? But are high gas prices really the problem? Yes, they are a problem? But are they the problem? Or are they a symptom of a larger problem? (And I’m not just talking about inflation!) Think about it: why do we spend so much money on gas? Because we fill our cars with so much gas, of course! But why? Why do we have to fill up our cars so often? Because we drive them all the time. We need them to get to work, to school, to the store, and everywhere else. That’s why we drive them so much and inevitably why we spend so much on gas. But why? Why do we need to drive our cars everywhere? Why do we have jobs that require us to commute nearly an hour to work? Why do we live in suburbs and neighborhoods that require us to drive miles to town for our shopping? How come most of our cities consist of roads, highways, and parking lots that are nearly unwalkable and require a car to get around? In fact, why do we need our own cars to get around? Why can’t we take the bus? Or trains? Or light rail? Why is public transit so unreliable, if not non-existent? Why does our public infrastructure prioritize cars over
public transportation? The answers to these questions are long and complicated. But the short answer is the auto and oil industry. For decades, they lobbied to plan our communities and infrastructure around automobiles, requiring people to buy cars if they want to get anywhere. Once cities were entirely walkable with plenty of public transportation like street cars and trains. Now they’ve been taken over completely by highways and parking lots. In fact, nearly 5% of all urban areas are covered by surface parking lots. There are more places in cities for cars than actual people! But what if this weren’t the case? What if most parking lots were used as open public spaces for businesses and community events? What if most streets were used by pedestrians and cyclists rather than cars? While there would certainly be highways in and out of cities, most other areas would be accessible by either walking or public transit. Imagine being able to go where you needed by tram, bike, or even by foot. This isn’t a pie-in-the-sky fantasy. This was the reality of American cities nearly a century ago. It’s still the reality of cities in Western Europe and Japan. And many urban planners today are helping make it a reality by revitalizing city streets and districts, making them walkable and driverless. Restructuring our communities to focus more on people than cars won’t be easy or simple, but seeking such long-term solutions will better benefit us than short-term solutions like lowering gas prices. After all, why worry about gas prices if you don’t need to drive that often? The views and opinions expressed in columns are not necessarily the views and opinions of Today & Tonight Magazine or Today & Tonight, Inc.
AUGUST 2022 13
AU G U S T 2 0 2 2
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
offices, enjoy a fabulous catered dinner by John Michael Exquisite Weddings & Catering, Door Prizes, Parade of Candidates, live band Red Hot Rooster and more! Located Lk Eva Event Center, Haines City. Fri, 6-9 pm. Tickets - $50. NortheastPolkChamber.com
AUG 4 – WhistleStop Political Rally. Join the Winter Haven Chamber for the WhistleStop political rally at Nora Mayo Hall! This will be a fun evening of getting to know candidates running for elected office, eating BBQ from Smokin’ Jims and spending quality time with local friends. Candidates can purchase a booth and share more about what they stand for so you, the community, can learn more and make an educated decision. Located at Nora Mayo Hall, 500 3rd St NW, Winter Haven. Thurs, 5:30-8 pm. Tickets - $25.
AUG 5 – August First Friday. Head to Downtown Lakeland on the first Friday of every month for First Friday; new theme each month. This month is Back to School bash. 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
AUG 5 – 40th Annual Pig Roast & Political Rally. Hosted by the Northeast Polk Chamber of Commerce. Meet and mingle with Incumbents & Candidates campaigning for local, county, state and federal
AUG 11 – 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
14 AUGUST 2022
trucks and their delicious cuisine. 20 plus food trucks come together each month and park on the streets surrounding beautiful Munn Park. Thurs, 6-9 pm. (next events: Sept 8, Oct 13) AUG 14 – Central Florida Collectorfest. 15,000 sq ft of Toys and Collectibles! Hosted by Florida Toy Shows and Expos. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sun, 9-4 pm. Early Bird Entry (9a-12p) - $15, General Admission (after 12p) - $10, 12 and under free. Parking free. FloridaToyShows.com and www.RPFundingCenter. com AUG 14 & 25 – Balmoral Summer At The Pool Series. Balmoral Bar & Grill is hosting a pool party series in August. Aug 14 is the Family Funday Sunday Foam Party 1-5 pm (family friendly) and Aug 25 is the Adult Glow Foam Party 7-11 pm (21 & up). Located Balmoral Bar & Grill/Balmoral Resort, Haines City. Tickets available at CentralFloridaTix.com or BalmoralBarAndGrill.com for info. AUG 16– Tasty Tuesday. Third Tuesday of every month. 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. Tickets come in packets of 10 for $25. (Additional packs may be purchased in increments of $5 which is 2 tickets). Tues, 4:30-9 pm. Cost - $25 for 10 tastes. https://ldda.square. site/product/tasty-tuesday-tickets/31?cs=true&cst=custom SEPT 10 & 11 – F.I.R.Expo. Repticon Reptile & Exotic Animal Show. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 9-4 pm and Sun, 10-4 pm. Online tickets only $12 Adults, $6 Youth (5-12 yrs), 4 and under free. www.Repticon.com and www. RPFundingCenter.com SEPT 17 – Sesame Street Live “Make Your Magic”. Join your favorite Sesame Street friends for a magical adventure when Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic visits your neighborhood. Elmo and Abby Cadabby team up to learn how determination and practice are the best ways to reach your goals. Along the way, they are joined by Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Grover, Count and Rosita to discover why it’s okay to make mistakes and real magic can be found when you believe in yourself. With high-energy dancing and an introduc-
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
tion to the art of illusion, you’ll enjoy every magical moment with your family and friends at Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic.Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Sat, 2 shows 10:30 am & 2:30 pm. Tickets $23, $28, $33, $38, $43, $48, $58 plus parking. www.RPFundingCenter.com SEPT 24 & 24 – Ultimate Team Challenge Bull Riding. Come watch some of the world’s best cowboys compete on teams to try and win piece of a $100,000 cash prize! Over the course of this event, 90 bull riders will be going headto-head with the countries best bovine athletes. The team with the highest accumulated score on 3 rides, wins! We will have fun for everyone at this event, with activities for the whole family. We will have a boot scramble for the kids on Friday, and a dance off on Saturday. You can also try your luck as a bull rider on the mechanical bull in our family zone. Or if you’re feeling brave, you can play Money the Hard Way for the chance to win $200! Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri & Sat, 7 pm. Tickets $21, $29, $34, $40, $108 VIP Floor Seats. www. RPFundingCenter.com
Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market – (Closed Aug). 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 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 8:30-11:30 am (Summer Hours Jun, Jul, Aug). AUG 14 - 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 AUG 18 - Lake Wales 3rd Thursday Market. The boutique market will feature a variety of produce, artisan food vendors, plants, a pinch of crafts and a mind-blowing food truck. This market is within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Located Stuart Avenue in the parking lot near downtown’s new Gillian Fazio mural in Lk Wales. Thurs, 4-7 pm.
Concerts & Theatre AUG 12 – Classic Albums Live Concert Series. Note for Note and Cut for Cut.
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
Performances of classic rock’s best albums and artists with original music performed live on stage. Aug 12: Dire Straits “Brothers in Arms”, Sept 22: U2 “Joshua Tree”, Oct 23: Billy Joel “The Stranger”. Located at the RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Fri, 8 pm. Tickets $44, $33 plus parking. www. RPFundingCenter.com AUG 20 – Candlelight at the Ritz: Summer Woodwinds. A unique musical series experienced in an intimate and breathtaking setting. Immerse yourself in the artistry of the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra Woodwinds Quintet, while awash in the warm glow of candlelight in Winter Haven’s downtown treasure, The Historic Ritz Theatre. Come celebrate this wonderful music form with the flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon and horn. Your choice of a free drink from our bar is included in the ticket price. Located at Ritz Theatre, downtown Winter Haven. Thurs & Fri, 7:30 pm and Sat, 7:30 pm. Cost – 30. www. RitzWinterHaven.com AUG 27 – Spirit and the Cosmic Heart wsg Brett Staska. A warm shoegaze pop sound founded on good production, lush instrumentals and soft vocals, and show a tendency for memorable and tuneful writing. Subtly reminiscent of sixties pop, Moments EP (2021) is an accurate representation of the bands songful character, bringing forth symmetric levels of dream pop melancholy and twee smoothness. Located at Ritz Theatre, downtown Winter Haven. Sat, 7:30 pm. Cost $10 adv, $13 at door. www. RitzWinterHaven.com AUG 27 – Drag & Dinner
Show at Balmoral. Hosted by Trishelle featuring Olivia and Japonica. Located Balmoral Event Center, Balmoral Resort, Haines City. Sat, 7-10 pm. Tickets - $45. CentralFloridaTix. com SEPT 9 – The U.S. Bee Gees. The ultimate salute to the Bee Gees in their prime! This 5-piece band features the precise vocal blend, and musicianship, of Todd Pitts, Greg Pitts and Ken Custalow as the brothers Gibb. The sibling harmonies of the Pitts brothers makes for an even higher caliper of vocal blending. This combined with an energetic stage performance continues to thrill audiences everywhere. Located at Ritz Theatre, downtown Winter Haven. Fri, 7 pm. Cost - $30. www.RitzWinterHaven.com
Charity Events & Golf Tournaments AUG 7 – Bowl A Rama 2022. Join us for a Family Friendly fundraiser which includes Bowling w/ Shoes, Food Buffet, Raffles, Fun! 8 Pin No-Tap format. Enter a 4-person team to bowl or sponsor a lane. Space is limited so book early! PolkNoKill.org or email Lisa Baker for details: lisa.baker@ humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org OCT 22 – 7th Annual Fore the Love. Golf and Women’s Tennis Tournament. Benefit for the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation. Located at the Country Club of Winter Haven. Sat, 9 am. (online auction and raffles: Fri, Oct 14 to Sat, Oct 22) whhfoundation.org for more info AUGUST 2022 15
THURSDAY, AUG 25
AUG/SEPT/OCT CONCERT CALENDAR WEDNESDAY, AUG 3
SUNDAY, AUG 7
JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) JADE & DUKE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) DAVID BRIMER (The Social Lounge, WH)
LUBECK (Tanners Lakeside, WH) CURT BEASLEY 2p/ BLAKE FREE BAND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) B. HAVEN (Twisted Prop, WH) THE BIRTHDAY SAPS (Swan Brewing, LKD) OAKLEE/THE HEADBANG/ SPANKIN SADIE/OZAN & THE SMOKIN FLUOROCARBONS (Leo’s Live/Ybor Cigar, LKD)
THURSDAY, AUG 4 JOEY FOLEY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) DAVE SMITH (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) BIGTIME JUKEBOX (Tanners Lakeside, WH) DUELING PIANOS (The Social Lounge, WH) GILLY & THE GIRL (Swan Brewing, LKD)
FRIDAY, AUG 5 JOSH BLEVINS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) B. HAVEN (Cypresswood Pub, WH) HARD CANDY (Apple Lounge, WH) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) MANDALA SKY (Swan Brewing, LKD) ANDY SHREEVE (Patio850, LKD) ANISETTE MAYER (The Pink Piano, LKD) BAD BUNNY (Camping World Stadium, ORL)
SATURDAY, AUG 6 COACH AND FOUR BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BAND SALTY SENIORS (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) OAKLEE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) PATRICK RENNEY (Apple Lounge, WH) CHASM DEEP (Swan Brewing, LKD) THE SOUND MACHINES (Federal Bar, LKD) BLAKE FREE (LA’s Midway Saloon, WH)
16 AUGUST 2022
WEDNESDAY, AUG 10 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) MICHAEL BUBLÉ (Amway Center, ORL)
THURSDAY, AUG 11 JADE & DUKE (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) DARRA TANNER (Old Man Frank’s, WH) RAY GURKA (Swan Brewing, LKD)
FRIDAY, AUG 12
CAL DIRE STRAIT; BROTHERS IN ARMS (RP Funding Center, LKD) NOSTALGIA (Old Man Frank’s, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (Twisted Prop, WH) HARLEQUINN (Apple Lounge, WH) BULLY 4 U (Swan Brewing, LKD) BILLY DICKERSON (Federal Bar, LKD) A & V PROJECT (The Pink Piano, LKD) STEVIE B, LISA LISA, THE COVER GIRLS, THE JETS (Amalie Arena, TMP) CHRIS BROWN & LIL BABY (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
SATURDAY, AUG 13 CHASE DIXON 2p/ SUPERNOVA 8p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)
VIBES DUO (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) B. HAVEN (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) JIM & JUDY (Apple Lounge, WH) SG WOOD 2p/ BRETT FOSTER TRIO 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) NEAL AND PREY TRIO (Federal Bar, LKD) TRAUMA BONDS wsgs A HUMAN GONE, DEAD MIRRORS, DAWN OF THE BLACK SUN, DIANA DIRT AND THE DIRTBAGS (Union Hall, LKD) A CHUNKA SUMTHIN’ (LA’s Midway Saloon, WH) ENGINE ZERO (Leo’s Live/Ybor Cigar, LKD) MICHAEL BUBLÉ (Amalie Arena, TMP) CHRIS BROWN AND LIL BABY (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
SUNDAY, AUG 14 CHEAP FUEL 2p/ SOUTHERN BLEND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ACOUSTIC DOSE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots Brewing Co, WH) MICAH MADORE & KAT AGNER (Swan Brewing, LKD)
WEDNESDAY, AUG 17 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)
THURSDAY, AUG 18 TMIKE & DUKE (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) JIM & JUDY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BIGTIME JUKEBOX (Tanners Lakeside, WH) DAN PEPIN (Swan Brewing, LKD)
FRIDAY, AUG 19 SNAKE FARM (Old Man Frank’s, WH) OFF WHITE BETTIES (Wheelhouse Bar 19th Hole, DVPT) RUSTY WRIGHT BAND (Out-n-About Bar, DUN) BLAKE FREE (Apple Lounge, WH) PROPER WEDNESDAY (Swan Brewing, LKD) JACK JOHNSON (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP) MAXWELL, XSCAPE AND JOE (Amway Center, ORL)
SATURDAY, AUG 20 PATRICK RENNEY 2p/ OAKLEE MUSIC 8p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BLIND AMBITION (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) CHEAP FUEL (Apple Lounge, WH) SIDE PROJECT BAND 2p/ BRETT FOSTER BAND 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) DIERKS BENTLEY wsg ASHLEY MSBRYDE, TRAVIS DENNING (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
SUNDAY, AUG 21 DAY DRINKIN’ DUO 2p/ SPANKIN SADIE 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FREE WHISKEY (Tanners Lakeside, WH) CRISTI MASSEY (Swan Brewing, LKD) PEPE AGUILAR wsg ANTONIO AGUILAR, ÁNGELA AGUILAR, LEONARDO AGUILAR AND EL ZACATECANO (Amway Center, ORL)
TUESDAY, AUG 23 THE LUMINEERS wsg JAMES BAY (Amway Center, ORL)
WEDNESDAY, AUG 24 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)
ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Old Man Frank’s, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (The Social, WH) RAY GURKA (Swan Brewing, LKD) PINK FLOYD’S ROGER WATERS (Amway Center, ORL) THE BLACK KEYS wsg BAND OF HORSES, EARLY JAMES (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
FRIDAY, AUG 26
SOMEBODY’S GHOST (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FOLEY & BURNS (Tanners Lakeside, WH) B. HAVEN (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) JOSH BLEVINS (Apple Lounge, WH) DADDY YANKEE (Amway Center, ORL)
SATURDAY, AUG 27
MICHA DUO 2p/ HARD CANDY 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) FOLEY & BURNS (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) TMIKE & DUKE (Front Page Brewing Co, BTW) FIFTH GEAR BAND (Caribbean Bay, WH) SANTANA wsg EARTH, WIND & FIRE (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
SUNDAY, AUG 28
CURT BEASLEY 2p/ CONSPIRACY THEORY 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SUMMIT KINGS (Ducky’s Dockside, Lk Marion/ HC)
WEDNESDAY, AUG 31 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)
THURSDAY, SEPT 1
DUELING PIANOS (The Social Lounge, WH)
FRIDAY, SEPT 2
ONEREPUBLIC wsg NEEDTOBREATHE (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
SATURDAY, SEPT 3 ROD STEWART wsg CHEAP TRICK (Amalie Arena, TMP)
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
SUNDAY, SEPT 4 LUBECK (Tanners Lakeside, WH) LABOR DAY REGATTA (Old Man Frank’s, WH)
MONDAY, SEPT 5 ANUEL AA (Amway Center, ORL)
WEDNESDAY, SEPT 7 MIKE VALLELY & THE COMPLETE DIASTER wsg A HUMAN GONE AND TOME SMASHERS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH)
FRIDAY, SEPT 9 TMIKE & DUKE (Twisted Prop, WH) SPITFIRE (Apple Lounge, WH) BILLY DICKERSON (Federal Bar, LKD) JOWELL & RANDY (Amway Center, ORL)
SATURDAY, SEPT 10 TMIKE & DUKE (Cypresswood Pub, WH) CABANA DOGS (Dukes Brewhouse, LKD) LIL BABY wsg LIL DURK AND NARDO WICK (Amway Center, ORL)
SUNDAY, SEPT 11 TMIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots Brewing Co, WH)
WEDNESDAY, SEPT 14 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) SCORPIONS wsg WHITESNAKE w/THUNDER MOTHER (Amalie Arena, TMP) THE KILLERS wsg JOHNNY MARR (Amway Center, ORL)
THURSDAY, SEPT 15 RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS wsg THE STROKES AND THUNDERCAT (Camping World Stadium, ORL) SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY & THE ASBURY JUKES (Hard Rock Event Center, TMP)
CHASE DIXON SUNDAY, SEPT 18
MONDAY, SEPT 26
THURSDAY, OCT 6
TUESDAY, OCT 25
FIFTH GEAR BAND (Caribbean Bay, WH) LAMB OF GOD wsg KILLSWITCH, BARONESS, SUICIDE SILENCE (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP) CAMILO (Amway Center, ORL)
KAROL G
BEN PLATT wsg ALY & AJ (Amway Center, ORL)
STEVIE NICKS
WEDNESDAY, SEPT 21 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) WU-TANG CLAN wsg NAS (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
THURSDAY, SEPT 22 CAL U2; JOSHUA TREE THE WALL (RP Funding Center, LKD)
(Amalie Arena, TMP)
THURSDAY, SEPT 29 WISIN & YANDEL
(Amway Center, ORL)
FRIDAY, SEPT 30 JAZZ HAMILTON; CARNEVALE
(RP Funding Center, LKD) OFF WHITE BETTIES
(Wheelhouse Bar 19th Hole, DVPT)
ALICE IN CHAINS AND BREAKING BENJAMIN wsg BUSH AND PLUSH (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
FRIDAY, 23 FLORENCE + THE MACHINE wsg KING PRINCESS (Amway Center, ORL)
SATURDAY, SEPT 24 CABANA DOGS (Dukes Brewhouse, LKD) LIZZO wsg LATTO (Amalie Arena, TMP) KAROL G (Amway Center, ORL)
SUNDAY, SEPT 25 LAKELAND PUNK ROCK (Swan Brewing, LKD) BILLY DICKERSON (Harborside, WH)
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
SATURDAY, OCT 1 WISIN & YANDEL (Amway Center, ORL) LUKE BRYAN wsg RILEY GREEN AND MITCHELL TENPENNY (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
WEDNESDAY, OCT 5 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) PANIC! AT THE DISCO wsgs MARINA AND JAKE WESLEY ROGERS (Amalie Arena, TMP)
FRIDAY, OCT 7 SMASHING PUMPKINS wsgs JANE’S ADDICTION AND POPPY (Amalie Arena, TMP)
SATURDAY, OCT 8 BLOODY JUG BAND (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) ZAC BROWN BAND wsg ROBERT RANDOLPH (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
wsg VANESSA CARLTON
(Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
WEDNESDAY, OCT 26 JIM & JUDY’S BIG ASS JAM
(Jessie’s Lounge, WH) GRETA VAN FLEET wsgs DURAND JONES & THE INDICATIONS AND CROWN LANDS
(Amalie Arena, TMP)
THURSDAY, OCT 27 FRIDAY, OCT 14 CHRIS STAPLETON wsg ELLE KING AND MORGAN WADE (Midflorida CU Amphi, TMP)
SUNDAY, OCT 16 PITBULL wsg IGGY AZALEA (Amway Center, ORL)
FRIDAY, OCT 21 BLUE COLLAR BAND (Apple Lounge, WH) GORILLAZ (Amway Center, ORL)
SUNDAY, OCT 23 CAL BILLY JOEL; THE STRANGER (RP Funding Center, LKD)
CASTING CROWNS wsgs CAINE AND ANNE WILSON
(Amway Center, ORL) IRON MAIDEN wsg WITHIN TEMPTATION (Amalie Arena, TMP)
SATURDAY, OCT 29 SMOKEPOINT
(Swan Brewing, LKD) FIFTH GEAR BAND
(Caribbean Bay, WH) BANDA MS
(Amway Center, ORL)
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.
AUGUST 2022 17
18 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 19
by James Coulter Photos By Charles Wolf Photography
W
henever Trishelle Michaels and her friends perform, their shows are a real drag—and that’s a good thing! From Balmoral Resort in Haines City to The Parrot in Lakeland, she and her fellow queens host various drag shows throughout the county, and they all prove to be equally fabulous. Their performances often begin long before the show even starts, as they are known to mingle with audience members. The show then opens with an overture to grab your attention and then is followed by several individual performances of hit songs from the past few decades. Also, to engage the audience even further, some volunteers might be called on to play some fun games and the shows conclude with a big musical finale. Trishelle has been on the drag show scene for almost 20 years. Her interest was piqued when she was invited to a performance by a friend. One thing led to another, and she started to perform drag herself with some help and advice
Trishelle Michaels Drag Queen from her “drag mother” in Tampa. Those initial performances opened other opportunities, and now she hosts regular shows throughout Polk County.
Currently, she performs at The Parrot in Lakeland twice a month, and quarterly at The Social Lounge in Winter Haven and Balmoral Event 20 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
Center/Balmoral Resort in Haines City. Her next scheduled performance will be at Balmoral on Aug. 11 for Drag Bingo and Aug. 27 for The Drag Revue Dinner Show. Learn more about upcoming performances on her Facebook and Instagram pages. Trishelle recently sat down with us to answer some questions about her drag queen career. Here’s what she had to say: Q: How did you get started with drag? A: I first started going out to the club when I was 20-ish. I had friends doing it. One thing led to another. I had a friend dress me one night. I thought it was cool. I enjoyed it. From there, I started working with my drag mother in Tampa. She let me join in with her shows as I started out, which I appreciate. From there, I found opportunities and [they] allowed me to get my name out there. Q: What do you love most about performing drag? A: For me, it is funny to say. It is not necessarily about me. I really enjoy getting other people to have a great time and smile and laugh and really [help them] put the stress of the world aside even if it is a couple of hours. That is truly what I get out of it from the entertainment side. I do it for the community, the LGBT community, [by] inviting straight folks over. I am trying to show them a different side, just enjoy an evening at a show of what they would not normally not do or attend. Q: What was your favorite venue to perform at? A: I hosted the Polk Pride event in 2019 at Munn Park [in Lakeland]. I was able to host that event and that was super
exciting. That opportunity was amazing and [it has] just been a snowball effect. Balmoral is at is the top of the list. They supported me so much and opened up a lot of opportunities than I could or I thought could [never] happen. It has been an awesome partnership. They have been so awesome to work with. Their staff is amazing and welcoming -the resorts guest and residents alike, it has been unbelievable. Side note: my home bar, The Parrot, where I started out in Downtown Lakeland, they have been there for me [ever] since I moved to Polk County in 2009. They have allowed me to work and grow and be myself and I truly appreciate the core support group from them. Without The Parrot, I am not sure I would have been presented opportunities from Balmoral, Del Webb – Orlando, The Social, and Let’s Wine About It. Q: What reasons would you give people to check out your performance? A: They are going to laugh and be entertained. Drag is an art and each entertainer is different and all that combined creates for a unique experience. A lot of the drag queens do songs that are popular from the 70s, the 80s, and 90s. It is not shocking to us when the guests start to sing and dance along. There are families and large groups that come to venues like Balmoral…[and] love it. The older generation has really opened up and accepted this as a form of entertainment, they are amazing to me and have really helped these shows grow and be successful.
grown so much over these last handful of years because the mainstream media [has been] presenting it more. Opportunities have become available at eateries and other bars, resorts, and theaters. I personally haven’t seen this type acceleration in growth before, but I am very thankful for it. You have to be willing to put the work in and challenge yourself to do it and make the best show possible so they want to come back. For me, I always try to bring different entertainers that I
know and trust will present the best show possible. The challenge would be balancing my time, whether it is personal time, business time, or the drag shows. I am constantly working and trying to better myself and each show that I do, [to] learn from mistakes and do the best that I can. I take a lot of pride in what I do. I know each person I see and meet at these shows and venues could have easily made a decision to not attend, but I am forever grateful to be able to share my time with them.
Q: Has there been any challenges, and how have you been able to overcome them? A: I work full-time at a daytime job. Drag has presented a challenge because it has
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 21
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sat., Sept. 17 Central Park 401 W. Central Ave. Winter Haven
E at • Pl ay • To u r • Le a r n Scan for more info.
22 AUGUST 2022
www.polk-county.net/utilities/7-rivers-water-festival
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
7TH ANNUAL
the
Cassidy
Supporting the Haven Women’s Hospital Carewill Unit (NICU) and support Winter Haven Hospital AllWinter proceeds from theNeonatal 2022Intensive events go to the Patients
Winter Haven Women’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
A Golf and Tennis Event at Country Club of Winter Haven Presented by:
Legacy Sponsor:
THANK YOU SPONSORS AND TEAMS The
Family
Fore the Love Sponsors:
Mike & Janine Mahalak | John & Tracy Scheck
Online Auction & Raffle Drawing
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22
Golf and Women’s Tennis Tournament SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 - 9:00 AM
Country Club of Winter Haven
4200 Country Club Road South, Winter Haven
For More Information: WHH Foundation (863) 297-1781 whhfoundation@baycare.org
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 23
24 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 25
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 Hand-dipped 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 863-875-3974
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
26 AUGUST 2022
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 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
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 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
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
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
1. Who first released “Do Wah Diddy Diddy”? 2. Name the girl group that released “You Can’t Hurry Love.” 3. Did any of Steppenwolf’s singles top the charts in the U.S.? 4. Which artist wrote and released “Only the Good Die Young”? 5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “To the tables down at Mory’s, to the place where Louis dwells, to the dear old Temple Bar we love so well.”
years later, Phil Collins covered the song, and his version went to No. 1 as well. 3. No. But their “Born to Be Wild” and “Magic Carpet Ride” did ... in Canada. Steppenwolf formed after the Canadian group The Sparrows disbanded. 4. Billy Joel, in 1978. Joel is thought to have written the song after a high school crush he’d had. 5. “The Whiffenpoof Song,” written in 1907 by members of the Yale Glee Club. The Whiffenpoofs (aka The Whiffs) are the oldest college a cappella group. Fourteen seniors are selected each year to re-create the group, and they tour internationally for that year.
June 8, 2020
King Features Weekly Service
1. Name the girl group that released “Nothing But a Heartache.” 2. Which group had their album pulled by Disney on release day? 3. Two duos released “Mockingbird” a decade apart. Who were they? 4. Which artist had his only No. 1 hit with “Rock Your Baby”? ANSWERS 1. TheName Exciters, in 1963. Thesong that contains this 5. the song was later covered by Manfred Mann in 1964. Their version topped lyric: “There, like a dream, this wonthe chart for two weeks. 2. The Supremes, in 1966. Sixteen derful night, I gazed at the grotto aglow in the light.” inside out and straighten all the pleats. Then tape the bottom so Answers that all the pleats are held together. Next, feed the skirt into a leg pantyhose with the foot cut 1. The Flirtations,ofoff.in 1968. You end up with a nice tube, which you canin tuck1997. into the sides 2. Insane Clown Posse, At of your luggage. • “Whenlast painting, write the name Disney objected to the minute, and brand of paint under the • When traveling for more than room’s light switch plate. If you the graphic nature thesticklyrics. aof few days, your plantsJust into ever need to go out and buy more, the bathtub with a little bit of weeks Southern Baptist you will knowearlier, where to start.”the -water. They soak it up, and you R.K. in Montana don’t have to have someone come Convention had threatened to boycott over and water your plants. This • My family has always used will only work for a week less, Disney because of orGay mayonnaise as abusinesses salve on minor though. -- John McF. of Baton burns. I heard you can use toothDays at Disneyland.Rouge, Louisiana paste too. -- Sam P. via e-mail 3. Inez and Charlie Foxx, theon my song• I keep grocery lists • Add these to the list of items computer. When I am going to go to eliminate the in odor1963, of cooking and Carly Simon and writers, shopping, I print out the list and cabbage: a heel of bread, a whole fold the paper in half. Then I slip walnut or a pinch of baking James Taylor insoda.1974. my coupons into the fold. Keeps them handy when I am shopping. 4.travel George McCrae, in 1974. McCrae • To with pleated skirts, use -- Reader in Maryland this packing trick: Turn the skirt not only had a No. 1 hit, but it also netted Grammy nom for Best Male EXPECThim MORE...a GET MORE... WE DELIVER! • Window frames can be tricky to clean. And they are a magnet for dust and dirt, or worse — condensation that can lead to mold. To get into the crevices, employ a toothbrush sprayed with a tiny spritz of furniture polish. It works! • “Firing up the grill? Don’t get hasty. Preheat. Cooking times are based on an even cooking temperature, and you’ll get that good sear on your steaks or chicken. Use a grill thermometer and you’ll know when just the right time is to put dinner on the grill!” — T.E. in South Carolina • Ever wonder how long your peanut butter will last? On the pantry shelf, you can expect it to hold for 7-12 months if stored in a cool dark place. After opening, it will last 3-4 months in the fridge. • Smudged mascara? Remove it on the fly with a little bit of lip balm. Simply run your finger over the lip balm, then carefully remove the smudge. You also can put a bit of the lip balm on a tissue and use that instead. • “I dropped a glass in the kitchen, and there were a ton of small pieces.
MAXWELL
Maxwell is a black and white male Pointer mix. He is approximately 1 year old and has been neutered. Maxwell is a happy and playful boy that loves to play fetch. He knows a couple of tricks like shake hands or paws. He also knows how to sit, lay down, and roll over! Maxwell loves other dogs and gets very excited when he sees one of his friends.
MARCELINE
Marceline is an orange and black female Domestic Shorthair mix. She is approximately 1 year, 1 month old. She has been spayed. Marceline is a very sweet cat who seems to get along well with everyone of all ages that she meets. She has been around other cats here and is adapting fine.
JASPER
Jasper is a gold and white male Domestic Shorthair mix. He is approximately 1 year old and has been neutered. Japer is as sweet as pie! This friendly cat does good with most dogs but CAN NOT go to a home with cats. He loves to sit on his cat tree and look out the window. His favorite toys are fake mice and bell balls and his favorite treats are temptations!
The Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Road • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.PolkNoKill.org • (863) 324-5227 Tues-Sat 10:30-6pm. Closed 1-2 pm for lunch.
Veterinarian of the Month Dr. Carol Thompson was born in Montgomery County Pennsylvania. She grew up with many family pets and developed a love for animals. She graduated from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA with a B.S. in biology and a music minor. She attended the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia where she received her degree in veterinary medicine in 1990. She has practiced in Maryland (1990-2001) and Florida (2001 to present). Dr. Carol has always had an interest
in behaviour and enjoys trying to make your animal feel at home in our facility. Professionally, Dr. Thompson has an interest in behaviour medicine, fitness conditioning, as well as medicine and surgery. Outside of work, Dr. Carol enjoys running and aerobics. She also is working on training her Border Collie, Nash, to do freestyle and tricks so they can go visit at senior homes. They hope to be able to do demos on a regular basis.
Dr. Thompson
AUGUST 2022 27
June 8, 2020
LOKI
Hello, my name is Loki. I am a 4 year old male brindle who is neutered, microchipped and up-todate on my shots. I love women and children; but I can take a little longer to warm up to male strangers. I am a great dog who loves to play with previous owners' doggy children but unfortunately they didn't accept me into the pack.
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
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
28 AUGUST 2022
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 Live Music Mon, Jukebox Bingo 6-8p Tue, Trivia 6-8p Wed, Karaoke 6-9p Fri, DJ/Latin Nights 7-10p Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs 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 Bud/Bud Light Btls 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 Federal Bar 124 S Tennessee Ave (863) 816-3968 Closed Mondays Weekend, Live Music/DJ Indoor/Outdoor Space Food, Full Bar Fresco’s Bistro 132 S Kentucky Ave (863) 683-5267 Happy Hr 5-7 Monthly Pairings Great Bistro Fare Full Bar/Crafted Cocktails Gator’s Dockside Highland City 5135 S.R. 98 (863) 619-7627 Food, Full Bar Open late night
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
BARS&PUBS Hookah Palace 122 S Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 Hrs: Thu-Sat, 4p-2a Thu, Latin Nite w/DJ Fri & Sat, DJ Isle of Capri 541 S Combee Rd (863) 665-6246 Food, Beer/Wine Hpy Hr 3-6p; $1.50 Drft Wed, Ladies Night 7p Pool Tourn, Karaoke Lakeland Loft 108 S Tennessee Ave (863) 210-5327 Full Liquor Jazz & Cigar Lounge Business Casual Sun –Thu Dress to Impress Fri & Sat Linksters Tap Room (Dntn) 209 E Main St (863) 683-7195 Daily, 12p Full Liquor Smoke Free Sports Bar Lucky’s Sports, Oyster & Tiki Bar (Orange Bowl) 4318 US Hwy 98 N (863) 858-3878 Mon, Poker 7p Wed, Poker 11a 1st/3rd Sat, Live Bands Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, Beer 1853 E Memorial Blvd (863) 583-9119 Hpy Hr 2-7p Tue, Karaoke 6:30p Wed, $6 Burgers Fri, Ladies/Latin Night Sun, 50 cent Wings Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri
T A Slammers 1011 S Florida Ave (863) 682-4178 Full Liquor Nightly Specials T-Bows 33 Lounge 4106 Lakeland Hills Blvd (863) 683-1201 Happy Hr 4-6p; $2.75 Wells, $2.25 20oz Drafts Wed-Sat, Karaoke 9p Wally’s Pool Hall 1136 E Main St (863) 688-4460 Hpy Hr, Mon-Sat 11-7p Mon, 9-Ball Tourn Tue & Thu, APA 8 & 9-Ball Thu, Ladies Nite w/free pool Wild Greg’s Saloon 4951 US Hwy 98 N (863) 940-9133 Thu-Sat, 7p-2a Nightclub/Concert Venue Winner’s Circle 4215 S Florida Ave (863) 644-9464 Sun, Corn Hole Tues, Poker Wed, Ladies Night 1st Thu, Open Mic, 7-10p The Yard On Mass 802 N Massachusetts Ave (863) 333-0330 Open Daily Beer Garden, Food Trucks Full Bar, Live Music Ybor Cigars & Spirits 5263 S Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music
LAKE WALES
Gator Mack’s Sports Bar Camp Mack River Resort 14143 Camp Mack Rd (863) 696-3863 Open 7 Days Tue-Sat, 4-10p Food Avail. Full Bar, Music Darts, Pool Tables Outdoor Patio The Good Spot 3825 N Scenic Hwy (863) 949-4243 Sat, Ladies Night 7p-cl Sun, Karaoke 3p Darts, Pool Table Food Avail. 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 AJ Slammers 508 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 875 5623 Pub, Pool Hall, Karaoke Darts, Full Liquor Apple Lounge 2803 Recker Hwy (863) 291-0340 Happy Hr, Mon-Fri 11-7p Food Avail./Daily Specials Mon, Pool Tourn Poker, Karaoke, Bands Ave. Bar by Arabellas 328 W Central Ave (863) 229-8142 Open Mon-Sat, 4p Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 4:30-6:30p Sat, Hpy Hr 5-6:30p Full Menu/Full Bar Smoke-Free
Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 4204 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8925 Daily, 12p Full Bar, TVs Darts, Golden Tee, Pool
Al’s Place 1530 N Scenic Hwy (863) 241-3070 Sat, $1 Days: Drafts, Sodas, Fries, Sliders, Chili Dogs Open Daily 11-4; Wed & Fri, 11-7p
The Pink Piano 1015 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas
All Star Grill 2019 Hwy 60 E (863) 679-9689 Sports Bar Open Daily 11a-11p
Barrel239 239 3rd St SW (863) 229-7740 Whiskey Bar Open Daily Drink Specials 1-4p Smoke-Free
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Pub 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special
Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak 3100 Canal Rd (863) 439-2031 Seafood, Full Liquor Mon-Fri, Hpy Hr 11-4p Thu, Fri & Sat, Music 6-10p
Central Tavern 273 W Central Ave (863) 229-5027 Open Daily 12p Full Bar Smoke-Free Outside Patio
Revival Bar 119 S Kentucky Ave (863) 606-6090 Open 12p Daily/Smoke-Free Craft Cocktail Bar Vintage Cocktails, Beers Relaxed Seating Areas Southside Package & Lounge 1122 S Florida Ave (863) 683-4703 Happy Hr 10-7p & 12-2a; Full Liquor
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
Duke’s Brewhouse 1708 6th Street SE (863) 576-9464 Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music Fire Restaurant 325 W Central Ave (863) 875-5544 Wed, Fire Jass Trio Sun, Brunch Gary’s Grove 2995 Cypress Gardens Rd (863) 325-0001 Mon, Live Music Fri, Karaoke Pizza/Hot Dogs Avail Grape Expectations 535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 318-8800 Wine Bar Smoke-Free Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW (863) 291-0700 Food Truck & Live Music Wed-Fri 4p, Sat-Sun 12p 2nd Wed, Moonlight Mrkt Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free Harborside Restaurant 2435 7th Street SW (863) 293-7070 Daily, Hpy Hr 3-6p Mon-Thu, Early Bird 3-5:30p Waterfront Dining High Seas Lounge 7000 State Rd 544 (863) 299-2233 Great Food/Drink Specials Live Music Jensen’s Corner Bar 100 3rd Street SW (863) 298-6755 Outdoor Patio Thu, Live Music Smoke-Free 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 Smoke-Free Laugh Out Lounge 19 3rd Street NW Wed, Thu, Sun 5-10p Fri & Sat 5-11p Comedy Club/Bar Beer/Wine FB@LaughOutLoungeWH Let’s Wine About It Feat. Cured Charcuterie 34 3rd St SW (863) 292-0954 Tue-Thu 11a-8p Fri-Sat 11a-9p, Sun 12-4p Wine Bar, Small Plates Sat, Jul 16 Christmas in July 6-9p FB@letswineaboutitwinterhaven
Obscure Wine Company 276 W Central Ave (863) 268-6555 Mon-Thu 11a-10p Fri-Sat 11a-12a, Sun 11a-8p Mon, Magical Mon 11a-10p Wed, Wine Down Wed 5-8p Sun, Aug 21 50 Shades of Rosé Office Pub & Lounge 1243 1st Street S (863) 293-4767 Happy Hr 12-7 Mon & Thu, Karaoke Tue, Fri, Sat - Poker Pool Tables, Darts & Food Avail. Old Man Frank’s 1005 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 294-9179 Happy Hour M-F, 11-7p Daily Specials, Oyster Bar Fiesta Wed w/$1.50 Tacos Wed, Karaoke Thu-Sun, Live Music Sept 4, Regatta 2-6p Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 875-5708 Daily, 12pm Irish Style Sports Bar Pool, Darts, Golden Tee TVs, Full Bar Past Time Lounge 1605 1st Street S (863) 293-0027 Tue, Ladies Night Darts/Pool Table Slate 8 Family Billiards 20 4th Street NW (863) 247-8899 Smoke-Free Pool Hall Open Daily, Outdoor Patio Full Bar, Food Available Wed - Dart Tourn 7p FB@Slate8Pool The Social Lounge 356 3rd Street NW Mon-Fri, 4p-2a Sat, 2p-2a; Sun, 2p-12a Piano Bar Speakeasy-style Lounge Classic/Craft Cocktails Wine and Beer Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 324-7524 Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p w/Daily Beer Specials/Sports Packages Lunch Specials Mon-Fri Tanner’s Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 662-5948 Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Wed, 1/2 Price Wines Wed, Bingo Thu-Sun, Live Music Union Taproom 245 W Central Ave, ST 102 (863) 268-4921 Hrs: Tue-Thu 4-10p, Fri 4-11p, Sat 12-11p, Sun 12-7p 40 Self Pour Taps; Brews & More Pizza: Wed-Fri, 4-cl/Fri & Sat,12-cl Wed, Trivia 7p Fri & Sat, Live Music 7-10p 1st Thu, Night Market 6-9p
AUGUST 2022 29
30 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 31
BREWERY NIGHT MARKETS
WHERE LOCAL FLAVORS, ITEMS AND CRAFT BREWS COME TOGETHER
by James Coulter When he started making pottery, Luke Wilson started on the back patio of his old apartment. There, he would manually propel the pottery wheel with his foot in the Florida heat. Even now that he has his own house, he still pays homage to his humble origins with the name of his business: Patio Pottery Luke considers his hobby to be a meditative one, something that allows him to unwind and escape the world around him. Though he does not have a kiln, he loves every step of the process, from molding the clay to decorating it and finally firing it up. Being able to see his work from start to finish makes him feel accomplished, he said. “Honestly, the satisfaction comes whenever you open that kiln on the final firing where it has been glazed and you can see all of your hundreds of hours of work finished,” he explained. “You are working with, for lack of a better term, dirt and mud, and you are creating something that seems to be out of nothing. It is the constant refinement and making it the best it can be and seeing that improvement each time you do it. It is a tangible improvement on your skills, the thing you keep trying to do, you can see each batch getting better. And to 32 AUGUST 2022
see people appreciate that and be willing to spend money on that to support you, it is really satisfying.” Luke makes all sorts of pottery like mugs, plates, and bowls. He sells his wares at Brew Hub during their monthly Night Markets. He had been working at the brewery for seven years when he first started. Even when he no longer works there, he still frequents the market as a vendor. Attending these markets allows for a more personable experience with customers, especially since he can network with many of them there. “The thing I like most about it has been social. People are there to have a good time, and there are [plenty of] cool artists selling stuff,” he said. “I find that, at the breweries, people are most generous. They are more willing to spend than at other places I have been.” Patio Pottery is one of the many vendors that attend the Night Markets in Brew Hub in Lakeland. The monthly markets are hosted on the third Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. From pottery to soaps, to baked goods and custom signs, visitors can find a little bit of anything and everything at these night markets, where local artists and craftsman sell their wares. Michaela Gannon is a graphic designer by trade. So when she was looking to expand her services, she decided to start making custom-designed pieces through Millie’s Place Boutique. Whether you like Disney, Harry
Potter, or any other popular media, she can create home decor custom to your tastes. Millie’s Place Boutique can also create custom signs, logos, and deck boxes. “I take a lot of my inspiration from the pop culture side and spin it to sell to other people like myself who want one-of-a-kind things they cannot find in the world,” she explained. “I also get a lot of help from my partner, my mom, she is the talent behind the painting, gluing, and assembly of products.” She loves attending Brew Hub’s night market. She has been attending it for more than a year after being invited by one of the bartenders. Rather than offering her the same clientele at the same location, she finds that she has had new customers every time she attends. The regular customers she does attract often book sign parties with her. “Overall, it’s a good location,” she said. “You get a lot of people in who are not local to the area that are traveling between Tampa and Orlando, so I have been able to expand my customer base...It is always a lot of people there. It is never the same people over and over. So, I get a lot of interaction with a lot of different vendors [and customers].” Whether they want to peruse the wares of local artisans and craftsmen, enjoy live music and hot meals from food trucks, or simply take a sip of craft beer and wine, the Brew Hub Night Market offers something for everyone—
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
including dogs! These regular markets have proven quite popular, drawing in 400 to 500 attendees monthly, said Angie Klein, the coordinator for the Night Markets. Angie has been coordinating these events for nearly two years. She is a local artist, and both she and her husband love breweries. They love visiting new locations and seeing what they have to offer. When they stumbled upon Brew Hub, she was inspired to drum up a conversation with the manager to start a regular market there. “The brewery is a great venue with a huge tasting room and an awesome outdoor patio and yard, so it is a great environment,” she said. “In this day and time, it is so important to shop local and support small businesses. And I think the customers at brew house get that. The brewery clientele gets that. The type of people who go to breweries gets that.” She recently re-started the Night Markets in April of this year following downtime brought about by COVID-19. Plenty of attendees still come out in the summer weather, and business and attendance are expected to ramp up as the weather cools down in autumn. “I expect the market to explode in the autumn,” she said. “We have that gorgeous Florida weather with more people from up north, so I see big things happening in the market once the weather cools off and it stops raining.” The Union Taproom in Winter Haven hosts EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
a similar Night Market on the first Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For the past two years, they have hosted local artisans and craftsmen as vendors free of charge, allowing them the opportunity to attract a larger clientele, explained owner Colin Wells. Regular vendors include Cookie Catastrophe, The CBD Store, and Taylor Layne Boutique. Union Taproom opened in Sep. 2019. The brewery sells craft beer, wine, and oven-baked pizzas. While their Night Market experienced a ten-month hiatus due to the ongoing COVID19 pandemic, their attendance has been decent, and they hope things pick up with the cooler autumn weather. “It is something we thought would be nice to try and create opportunities for small businesses in the area and introduce them to our customer base and introduce our customer base to some of these other businesses,” he said. “These night markets, we are not the only ones, but it gives the community a place to see and touch and feel and interact with business owners, they give them an opportunity to our customer base or someone who may not have been aware of them and make a sale to someone in front of them. That is why these things do so well, and why it has done well for us.” Here is a list of night markets hosted at local breweries. Please contact these locations for updates on exact times and dates:
Night Market @ Union Taproom 3rd Thursday, 6 pm - 9 pm 245 West Central Avenue, Suite 102 Winter Haven, Fl. 33881 https://uniontaproomwh.com/ (863) 268-4921 Night Market @ Brew Hub 3rd Friday, 6 pm - 9 pm 3900 S Frontage Rd Lakeland, FL 33815 http://brewhub.com/ (863) 698-7600 Moonlight Market @ Grove Roots Brewing Co. TBA 302 3rd St SW Winter Haven, 33880 http://groveroots.com/ 863-291-0700 The Market @ Front Page Brewing TBA 190 S Florida Ave Bartow, FL 33830 http://www.frontpagebrewing.com/ (863) 537-7249
AUGUST 2022 33
34 AUGUST 2022
FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM
PERFECT PLACE TO PLAY
A
DISCOVER THE SINGING TOWER, ACRES OF HISTORIC OLMSTED GARDENS, A CHILDREN’S GARDEN AND MORE! Reflecting the art and spirit of Bok Tower Gardens, Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden incorporates cooling water features, vibrant plantings, a boardwalk, play areas with climbing features, a stage for little performers, and plenty of space to build, dig, create and explore.
EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!
AUGUST 2022 35 1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | 863-676-1408 | BOKTOWERGARDENS.ORG
