Today & Tonight Magazine October 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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­­­­­TODAY & TONIGHT MAGAZINE Volume 20 Issue 3 October 2023 4

Halloween Events

8

Polk County's Beloved Bartenders

46

7 Most Unique Bars in the World

56

Live Local Music

COLUMNS: 51

What's Rustling Jimmy's Jimmies?

Halloween Events

8

Polk County's Beloved Bartenders

THE FUN & AMUSING: 51

General Trivia

51

Strange But True

61

Now Here's A Tip

61

Music Trivia

61

Pets of the Month

LISTINGS: 48

Upcoming Events

52

Bars & Pubs

56

Live Local Music

60

Restaurant Listings

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.

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Chris Douglas Publisher/Editor

46

7 Most Unique Bars in the World

STAFF CHRIS DOUGLAS TRACEY GREENE

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:

COLUMNS TRACEY GREENE JAMES COULTER

ERICA SMITH

EDITORIAL ERICA SMITH AMY SUMERLIN ELIZABETH MORRISEY JAMES COULTER

56

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS DOUGLAS

Live Local Music

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.

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, 2023 by Today & Tonight, Inc. Submissions: Today & Tonight Magazine welcomes unsolicited manuscripts.

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Fall in for Beauty, Serenity and More!

Discover the natural side of Bok Tower Gardens this fall as Florida’s native wildflowers bloom with beautiful colors. Explore the biodiversity found along the beautiful trails of the Pine Ridge Preserve and take a comfortable stroll through the historic Olmsted Gardens. Enjoy daily Carillon concerts at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Discover A Great Calendar of Events and Concerts

RUNA October 6

Fall Wine Walk October 14

The Lubben Bros.

October 20

Dervish November 3

SPONSORED IN PART BY

1151 TOWER BOULEVARD | LAKE WALES, FL 33853 | 8636761408 | boktowergardens.org

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Haines City Trunk or Treat OCT 28 – Dress

up in your Halloween costume and come out to Lake Eva Park for Trunk or Treat, presented by Haines City & Miracle Toyota. In addition to trick or treating and, kids can check out all kinds of vehicles, including construction equipment, emergency vehicles, public transportation vehicles, tow trucks, & much more! Located at Lake Eva Park, Haines City. Sat, 8:30-11 am.

Sun ‘N Fun Spooktacular: Halloween Fun

Halloween Movie Marathon Polk State College FallFest OCT 14 – Polk at Silver Moon Drive-In OCT 6 & 20 – 5 movie County’s premier crafts festival will return to Polk marathon from 7:30 pm to 4:30 am. Located 4100 New Tampa Hwy, Lakeland. Cost - $25 per car. https://www.silvermoondrivein.com

Wonder House Halloween Tours OCT 6 to

29 – The Wonder House in Bartow is offering daytime and nighttime Halloween Tours. Reservations are required. Proceeds from tour admission go into further restoration of the Wonder House. The Wonder House currently only accepts cash. Located 1075 Mann Rd, Bartow. Cost - $25 to $30. https://wonderhousebartow.squarespace.com/historic-tours

The Haunting of River Ranch OCT 6 to NOV

4 – Experience a haunted hayride that uncovers a bone-chilling tale never-before-heard at the ranch of Kicco Clown. Grab a friend and make your way, twisting and turning, through a haunted house. Then, visit a family-friendly county fair in your fall best to pose for pictures and pick out your favorite gourds.

Book accommodations to stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo and receive discounted tickets and a $25 daily food & beverage credit. Located Westgate River Ranch Resort, River Ranch. Tickets from $18. https://www.westgateresorts.com/hotels/ florida/river-ranch/westgate-river-ranch-resort/activities/haunting-of-river-ranch/

Brick-or-Treat Monster Party at Legoland OCT 7 to 29 – Get ready to experience the spooky, kooky fun of one of the only kid-friendly Halloween events in Central Florida! During LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s Brick or Treat Presents Monster Party, kids get to enjoy safe, neighborhood-style trick-or-treating with plenty of candy. You’ll also get to see seasonal shows and exclusive LEGO® characters during the ultimate kids Halloween celebration. Located Legoland, Winter Haven. Saturdays and Sundays in October. www.Legoland.com/Florida

Pumpkinpalooza at Tanners OCT 14 – Day

of fun for whole family. Kids 12 and under, safe environment to trick or treat. Costume contest at 6 pm; Best Boy & Best Girl win a prize. Pumpkin painting crafts. Kids in costumes eat free! Live music with Soul2Earth 7-10 pm. Free event. Located at Tanners Lakeside (Tiki), 1006 Lk Howard Dr SW, Winter Haven. Sat, 4-8 pm.

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State College’s Winter Haven Campus. Fun for the entire family with crafts, live entertainment, food trucks, a pumpkin patch, a kid’s zone, haunted house, and more! Come out and support Polk State’s students and local vendors. Free event, open to public. Located Winter Haven Campus, 999 Abe H NE. Sat, 9-3 pm.

Haunted Jail Tour OCT 20 & 21, 27 & 28 – Hosted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Fall Festival at Welcome Center OCT 21

– Put your costumes on and bring the whole family out for a fun morning of trick-or-treating at the Visit Central Florida Welcome Center in Davenport.

Vendors will have decorated booths and will be passing out candy for the children. Play carnival games to win candy and fun prizes and make Halloween inspired crafts! There will be a face painter on-site as well as vendors selling kettle corn, caramel apples, and other seasonal goods! Located Visit Central Florida Welcome Center, 101 Adventure CT, Davenport. Sat, 8-12 pm. https://visitcentralflorida. org/events/visitor-information-center-fall-festival/

79th Annual Bartow Community Halloween Parade & Carnival OCT 26 –

Parade starts at 4 pm, Carnival will follow at Mosaic Park. Also enjoy: Lakeland Moonwalk, Food Trucks, Costume Contest, Cake Walk, Drawings, Bingo and more. Thurs,

Bartow’s Trick-or-Treat Trail OCT 27 –

Presented by Main Street Bartow. Trick-or-Treating at participating businesses denoted by orange & black balloons in front of each store 5-6 pm, Dog Costume Contest at 6:30 pm (registration at 6 pm), Costume Contest at 6:30 pm (registration at 6 pm), Movies On The Lawn at 7 pm. Located downtown Bartow, 200 Block of Main Street.

Sun ‘N Fun Spooktacular: Pumpkin Dash 5k OCT 28 – Get ready for a

spooky Halloween-themed 5K across the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus from 7-11 am. Costumes are encouraged! Enjoy a post-race dance party with food & drink available from food trucks after the race.

T-shirts & swag will be given out to each runner with prizes for the top 3 finishers in each age group division. Registration is $35 per person (plus taxes & fees). 5K Parking and Packet pick-up. Enter Main General Parking Lot from W Pipkin Rd. Located Sun ‘N Fun, Lakeland. https://aceedu.org/event-calendar/ sun-n-fun-halloween-spooktacular/

OCT 28 – Get your costumes, jump in the car, and head to SUN ‘n FUN for a weekend of Spooktacular fun! From 4pm to 8pm, families and individuals can visit Ms. Pat’s Traveling Emporium of Oddities- an exhibit of horror, a Spooky Trail, Camper Treating and the S’mores Fire Pit. Fun maps will be provided. The event is open to those coming in campers or in cars. Non-campers can join on Saturday from 4-9 pm. Cost - $5 per carload. Enter from the Rocky Road Entrance. Located Sun ‘N Fun, Lakeland. https://aceedu.org/event-calendar/sun-n-fun-halloween-spooktacular/

Spooktacular Halloween Bash 2023 OCT 28 – Hosted by the City of Lake Wales. Family event for children and parents. Enjoy trick or treating at Park & Stuart Ave stores. Located downtown Lake Wales. Sat, 5-7:30 pm.

GRB’s 7th Annual Spooktacular Halloween Party OCT 28 – Throwing the big-

gest, most wicked Halloween party, complete with spooky graveyards and a Halloween Ball! Escape from reality & join us for a terrifyingly fun night of costumes & beer! The night will be TOXIC and full of ghosts, goblins, ghouls, and witches haunting the brewery! The Packing House will be turning into a Spooktacular Ballroom complete with the coolest funk, jazz, and soul tunes! Break out your costumes & dancing shoes! Multiple food trucks, beer releases (think candy beer), fun vendors, and more! Located Grove Roots Brewing Co, 302 3rd St SW, Winter Haven.

Balmoral Halloween Spooktacular OCT

28 – Food, Haunted House, Prize for best Kid Costume and Adult Costume, Trick or Treat Buckets, Music. Free entrance. Located at Balmoral Bar & Grill, Balmoral Resort, Haines City. Sat, 7-11 pm. www.BalmoralBarAndGrill.com

Pal-oween Party OCT 29 – Join us for a spooky good time at our PAL-oween Party! We will have Trunkor-Treat Stations, a photo area, a Haunted House, and more. Food and fun for the whole family! Located at Pal Complex, 325 W 2nd Street, Lakeland. Sun, 5-8 pm. www.LakelandPAL.com

Halloween Drag Show at Balmoral Event Center OCT 31 – Halloween drag and dinner

show hosted by Trishelle. Located at Balmoral Event Center, 116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City. Doors open at 6 pm. Tickets: www.CentralFloridaTix.com

Auburndale Fall Fest NOV 4 – Hosted by the

City of Auburndale. Explore our outdoor fall market and enjoy fun games, live music, and crafts that kids will love! Downtown City Park, Auburndale. Sat, 9-2 pm

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NOTE FOR NOTE, CUT FOR CUT! SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW

TO ORDER: VISIT RPFUNDINGCENTER.COM OR CALL 863-834-8111 6 OCTOBER 2023

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20th Annual Bartender Photos by Chris Douglas

P

olk’s Beloved Bartender feature story started with the very first edition of the magazine in July 2004, and due to its popularity, the voting aspect became a staple component a few years later. Throughout the contest’s history, the magazine has collected more than 42,000 votes from dedicated readers wanting to recognize their favorite hospitality professionals. This contest has quickly become our way of saying “thank you” to the men and women who work hard each day to provide superior customer service.

Typically, this popular issue was always featured in July to mark its first edition on the streets of Polk County. Fast forward 16 years to March 2020, no one would have ever thought that our hospitality industry would have been shut down mid-day on a popular holiday, St. Patrick’s Day, which typically packed the bars and restaurants in celebration.

Thanks to the pandemic, the hospitality industry was devastated leaving its employees to struggle with non-employment for an undetermined about of time.

This coincided with the same time that our usual voting began. With such uncertainty looming, we decided to continue allowing votes to trickle in as we all learned

what the “new normal” would be going forward. As a company, we also had to decide the best way to move forward, transitioning to an online magazine, as well as how to honor an industry in a chaotic time.

Deciding to hold off on our Polk’s Beloved Bartenders issue from July to October was the best outcome. Fast forward to 2023, the hospitality industry is now thriving again even though see still see employee shortages at a higher percentage than pre-pandemic. Patrons, though, are back in full force helping their favorite “watering

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holes” keep our economy flowing – along with the drinks!

2023 marks our 19th Anniversary as Polk County’s premiere dining and entertainment magazine and it has been our pleasure to bring so many amazing stories and destinations to our, now virtual, pages.

Over the years, our writers followed the careers of rising music stars, watched new businesses thrive and shared their unique perspective perspecti ve on this beautiful community that we live, work, and play in. We are proud to be the publication that weaves entertainment, dining, events and more into a dynamic fabric that is truly vibrant and local!

For the third year, we put a little ghoulish twist on the Polk’s Beloved Bartenders issue by releasing it during October as the Halloween Edition. We cast a spell on our readers to get out and explore our wickedly cool hospitality industry Polk County has to offer and say hello to our winners.

Finally, we want to take the time to thank our advertisers, readers and supporters for the monstrous memories and 19 YEARS of spooktacular success. Today & Tonight Magazine is the beating heart of Polk County, and we are committed to providing Central Florida with the best spinetingling local entertainment and events.

Cue up the creepy music…Today & Tonight Magazine presents the 20th Annual Polk’s Top Ten Beloved Bartenders…we’ll be lurking for you.

Bah…ha…ha...ha!

OCTOBER 2023 7

CODY JOHNSON BARREL 239

239 3rd St SW • Winter Haven How many years you have worked as a bartender?

10 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

5 Years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

I can fit in anywhere and make a quick connection with just about anyone. I also take a lot of pride in my work so I always put forth my best effort.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

I do custom wood work during the week while I'm not bartending.

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

Kenny Rodgers - The Gambler. #Hashtag to live by? #carpediem Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

Fishing, hiking, paddle boarding, camping, going to the beach. Just being outdoors.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation? Where did you go on your last trip?

In a cabin in the mountains with a great view to wake up to or on a boat island hopping in the Caribbean.

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

Iceland.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

Pocket knife, flint strike, fishing pole, steak, Reese's.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Tough one because I have four food groups steak, bbq, tacos and pizza. I'd have to say steak because that's what I eat the most of.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

Not at this time.

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

Taurus, at times it can be.

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

Yes, tough because I like them all.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

I decorate Barrel October 1st every year.

Don't really have a favorite theme, just make it feel like Spooky Season.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

Reese's then Reese's now.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween? What's your favorite costume?

The crew at Barrel dresses every year for our big Halloween party, my favorite so far was when we did 80s and I dressed like an 80s hair metal band member.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

I make all kinds of fall cocktails from pumpkin spice martinis, loaded eggnog, apple cinnamon hot toddy, loaded hot chocolate.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

Come see me any weekend at Barrel239.

Thank you to the Barrel239 crew for being my second family. Check out ATGCustomWoodWork to see some of the great things we build.

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DAKOTA TEWS FISH CITY GRILL

1485 Town Center Drive • Lakeland How many years you have worked as a bartender?

8 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

8 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

I think that my biggest success as a bartender is my love for people. I genuinely enjoy getting to know my customers and find joy in racing to have their drink sitting on the bar before they sit down in their chair. I love that I get to know them well enough to ask them how their dogs vet appointment went that week or how their kid’s soccer game went that week. I look forward to seeing them more than they look forward to coming and sitting with me.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

I’m actually a licensed esthetician as well as a bartender. I love making people feel good and being a person they can come to feel better. If I wasn’t either one of those things I’d probably be a counselor of some kind. I’m a natural born caretaker so anything I can do to be there and help other people is what fuels the fire within me.

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is an easy choice.

My mom was a huge Cyndi Lauper fan and I just remember hearing that song my whole life and it resonates with me now more than ever. Nothing gets me out of my seat faster than that song. Daddy Dear is definitely still #1, but girl’s just wanna have fun.

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

That list is never ending but I always go back to wanting to go to Greece and stay in one of those little houses that look over the ocean. I’ve seen so many pictures and movies of the blue water there and I need to see it for myself.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

Well we can knock two out of the way, my boys.

My dogs are my whole heart. Some kind of sound machine/box fan because I am not sleeping without white noise. Music of any sort, if I’m gonna be on an island, I’m gonna need something to bop around to all day long. And a camera of some kind. I’m sure I’m gonna want to look back on something silly I did and in most cases in my life (lucky for my friends), it gets documented.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Seafood, hands down. Lobster, oysters, salmon.

I work at a a seafood restaurant, so apparently I went into the right business. The New England in me could have raw oysters and a lobster roll for any meal of the day.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I am extremely passionate about Suicide Prevention.

I lost my mom four years ago to a brain injury from a suicide attempt and from the second she went into the hospital, it became a part of who I am. I never want anyone to feel like they don’t have someone they can reach out to or feel like someone doesn’t care. I tell my friends, if I’m apart of your life, you’re never alone. It’s just a bad day, not a bad life is something that a lot of people know me to say. I feel like some days are so tough but life as a whole is so worth fighting for. If you wake up that day breathing, you have a chance. And if you don’t feel like you do, call me!

#Hashtag to live by?

My bestfriend Angela and I started this thing years ago where we say #grateful. We say it all of the time in so many situations because we are just the most grateful all of the time, anywhere we go. It could be the silliest thing as having a good Uber driver on vacation or for big things that go on in life but we just know it’s always the top of the list to be #grateful.

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

I love scary movies. Skeleton Key is probably my number one. I can only watch them with other people though. You’ll never talk me into watching a scary movie alone in my house. I don’t have too much faith in my dogs taking Micheal Meyers out if he walked through the front door.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

I don’t decorate too much for Halloween, I try to make my house as inconspicuous as possible for Halloween because I don’t feel like listening to my dogs bark for the entire night. Sorry kids. Lights off, nobody is home, please don’t ring the doorbell. But I love the voodoo and ghost theme. I do love Haunted Houses though, I’m usually first in line if I’m going with a group.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

Rollos are the best. I’m not a huge sweets person, I want all of the garlic and all of the salt. Anything with chocolate and caramel. I’m not sure if we’ve advanced enough to do small packets of nerd clusters, but if you’re going to have those at your house this year, go ahead and send me your address.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween?

What's your favorite costume?

I dress up for work usually. There was a time where I would dress up as a Fish City Grill menu item if I worked that day. I’ve dressed up as an oyster nacho and fish taco. I go all out if I’m putting together a costume. I made hair rollers out of a 6 pack of Miller Lite cans one year for a work costume.

I wish salted caramel had its own season like pumpkin spice does. I feel like it’s a fall flavor that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. I love a salted caramel martini for a dessert cocktail. I love making dessert drinks. I have a regular that comes in and has her regular drinks and always finishes with one special “Dakota Dessert drink.” I usually just ask someone what they like and let my wheels turn. I love to have fun with it.

I love to travel, my bar guests always ask me “So when is the next trip?” They always know I’m off to or going somewhere. Kayaking the springs is another one of my favorites. Cooking and eating are two of my favorite things to do, I’m a foodie and if I’m doing something in life, it’s not missing a meal.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

What's your idea of the perfect vacation?

Where did you go on your last trip?

10 OCTOBER 2023

I’m a Capricorn through and through. I’m a very practical person. Don’t get me something silly for Christmas, get me a new mop or a gift card to Publix. I’m a hard worker, my boss told me he thinks I’m going to pull up in a Lamborghini one day because of how much I’m at work. And most of all, I’m loyal.

I love with my whole heart and if you need me, I’m there. My friends and family know I’m going to show up and get it done.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

My perfect vacation is anywhere I am with my best friends. I love the water so usually somewhere with some kind of body of water in sight. My last trip was actually my most important one so far out of all of my trips. I spent a week where I grew up in New England to honor my mother who passed away 4 years ago. I went up there to spread her ashes in our favorite place on Block Island and spent 6 days with my best friends on the best “eat, pray, love” tour I could’ve ever asked for. It was life changing.

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

Tito's Front Porch Lemonade

When I got hired as a hostess at 16 years old, my hiring manager looked at me and said “you’re gonna be a bartender one day.” I got hired at Fish City Grill and they put me behind the bar at 21 and have loved every minute of meeting people, learning my craft and doing a lot of little dances behind the bar along the way. I’ve bartended for different events all across the United States and can truly say that so many of the amazing things I’ve done, people I have met and goals I’ve accomplished have come from pouring drinks. I am just #grateful for anyone that’s let me be their go-to bartender and for Fish City for letting me stick around for as long as I have.

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OCTOBER 2023 15

SABRINA LIFE GRILLSMITH

1569 Town Center Drive • Lakeland How many years you have worked as a bartender?

5 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

5 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Getting to know all your bar guests! I love making new friends and meeting new people everyday.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

I am actually in my last semester of grad school at USF! I will be graduating soon with my masters in applied behavior analysis working as board certified behavior analyst with children with autism and developmental disabilities. I love my kiddos!

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

Hmmm, I’m not really sure. Definitely not any slow songs!

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

I really really want to visit Greece and Switzerland! They just look so beautiful.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

My phone, food, something to stay warm because I'm always cold, a hair tie, and mostly importantly my chapstick.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Pizza!! As boring as that sounds, I could literally eat it everyday. Who doesn’t love pizza?

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I really love party planning! Ever since I planned my wedding. I love to be in charge of planning and decorating events for all my friends. I love helping other people making their vision come true for their special event.

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

I am a Taurus! Taurus are known for being very stubborn and loyal, and I think that fits me very well lol.

#Hashtag to live by?

I know this sounds cliché, but #youonlyliveonce. I’m always trying to convince people to just book the trip, or try something new.

Our money will return, but our time and memories won’t!

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

I love scary movies! My favorite movie would probably be Scream, and Nightmare on Elm Street.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

I love to decorate for Halloween! I am that person who starts decorating their house on September 1st. My favorite kind of Halloween theme is black and purple, and skeletons.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

My favorite Halloween candy as a child and still to this day is anything chocolate and peanut butter.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween? What's your favorite costume?

Of course! I enjoy a good matching Halloween costume. My favorite is Harley Quinn and the Joker.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

I love any pumpkin fall drinks! My signature cocktail this year is a pumpkin spice martini. Come try one with me!

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

Thanks so much to everyone that voted! I love everyone that this job has brought into my life and wouldn’t be here without ya :)

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

My favorite thing to do when I'm not working two jobs and grad school is traveling with my husband. We usually try to take a trip every 3-4 months somewhere new and try new things.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation? Where did you go on your last trip?

A perfect vacation to me is anywhere warm by the water and a bar lol. My most recent trip was a cruise to Mexico! It was my first one and I absolutely loved it!

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OCTOBER 2023 17

BRITTANY JONES UNION HALL

1023 S Florida Ave • Lakeland How many years you have worked as a bartender?

7 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

1 year.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

I've found my success came mostly from how to read and get to know my customers. Being personable and remembering the little details about them, helps create a safe and fun environment that people are typically looking for when they go out. Creating an experience rather than just serving a drink goes a very long way. Overall, just putting out good positive energy is the biggest factor to my personal success as a bartender. If you have an opportunity to make a positive impact on someone's day, then it will transfer on to the next. It will always be worth it.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

I not only bartend for Union Hall, but I am also the private event director here. When I'm not bartending, I am actively finding ways to keep Union Hall successful every day. With my amazing co-manager Chris Torres, together we host a ton of events here. A lot of the events are concerts, and to work in any environment involving music is my dream job. If i wasn't doing this, I'd likely be pursuing some way to create and travel for work.

little to no planning the entire time. My last vacation was to Oregon. We did a ton of hiking and living out our greatest chaotic moments.

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

I'm dying to go to Iceland at the moment, but also would love to make it to Japan and Ireland.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

I could not live without my dog, some music, a good pillow, chapstick (the good kind), and a redbull.

What is your favorite food? And why?

The oysters from Olivia in Tampa. It's the only oyster I'll have, its sooo mf good. Highly recommend.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I try to stay involved with the homeless community here in Lakeland. I do what I can to connect with them. I pack to-go boxes of food and hand them out occasionally, along with buying what they ask for, and/or give them money where I can. I've learned several of them by name and what they are usually in need of. I prefer to help directly where I can and really build connections with people in need. Sometimes that's what they need most.

And honestly I believe it is true for everyone.

We can deny the importance of connecting with one another, but we really do need each other.

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

To choose one song or sound track to relate to my entire life is really difficult. I'd say at least for this current chapter of my life, I'm really resonating with Russ' entire new album "Santiago". #Hashtag to live by? #sayhitomydogorwe'llbothcry

18 OCTOBER 2023

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

If I'm picking, I'm always going to choose a good horror movie. Off the top of my head, I love "Tucker and Dale vs Evil", although that ones more of a horror/ comedy.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

Halloween is my favorite time of year. I'll decorate if I'm having a party or plan on giving out candy. My favorite Halloween theme is more creepy than gory. Things that could look like people, but are really just a classic sheet over a mannequin type of thing. There's something specifically creepy about not knowing what's real or not.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

My favorite Halloween candy as a kid and now is candy corn.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween?

What's your favorite costume?

I like to dress up if I have the time to go all out.

I typically go for something funny or a group theme with friends. A good Trailer Park Boys costume would be my favorite.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

Anything with apple cider and whiskey is a good fall drink for me. A black margarita or dry ice cocktail for Halloween is always fun too. I make weekly menus here at Union Hall with different new recipes that I've come up with, so I have a few signature drinks. The one that gets requested the most is probably my Creepy Cucumber cocktail. It's very simple, light and refreshing without being too sweet or too strong. It is one shot of tequila with lemon juice, cucumber syrup, and sprite. For Halloween, I added a black sugar and Tajin rim.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

I'm super grateful for everyone's vote, for our amazing staff and co-workers, and for my mom who hand made all of our Halloween props here. You guys all make it worth it, so thank you and keep absolutely killing it!! Bring your events to Union Hall and check out our show line ups on our website, Facebook, and Instagram!

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

I spend a lot of my down time painting or doing some sort of creative project, going to a lot of concerts whether I know the artists or not- its always my favorite thing, traveling with friends, watching anime, and hanging out with my dog.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation?

Where did you go on your last trip?

My ideal vacation would be a good mix of nature/ quietness, something exciting like bungee jumping, and a sprinkle of nightlife with

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

I'm an Aquarius. From what I know, I think I'm probably spot on with my zodiac.

Creepy Cucumber Cocktail FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

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OCTOBER 2023 19

ALEX DONNELLY LUGO'S CRAFT DISTILLERY

2500 Drane Field Rd, Suite #208 • Lakeland How many years you have worked as a bartender?

3 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

1 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

The secret to my success as a mixologist is having the privilege to work for employers that allow me complete creative freedom to experiment however I see fit. Working for a distillery, rather than a typical bar, has opened up many avenues for me that I never realized before being hired as Lead Mixologist for Lugo's Craft Distillery. Moving from an industry that revolves around pour counts and strict adherence to menu items due to high volume, to an environment that rewards creativity and experimentation has changed not just my love of the profession, but so many facets of my life as well.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

If I weren't a bartender I would without a doubt work as a chef. The only thing that I love more in this world than making drinks is a good meal. I have travelled all over the world, including living in Jamaica and Vietnam, and the experiences I had during these times have all had an effect on me even if I didn't realize it at the time. Our Master Distiller and Owner, Christian Lugo, often tells customers," He's a better chef than he is a mixologist, and that's saying something."

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

When I'm not working I love playing golf and spending time cooking food or making drinks for friends and family. Nothing makes me happier than seeing the look on someone's face after they've tried something that I've made with my own hands.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation?

Where did you go on your last trip?

I personally have a hard time relaxing on your typical vacation, so an ideal vacation to me is where I can truly learn the culture and cuisine of wherever I end up travelling to. In my past travels, I've always preferred to stay with a host family rather than staying at a resort in order to get a more authentic experience.

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

The one place in the world that I want to visit is Ireland. I'm a huge lover of history and my family is of Irish ancestry and I would love to trace things back as far as possible.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

The five things that I can't live without on a desert island would have to be: Some type of grill or kitchen, a comfortable mattress, a friend, a collection of music and a lifetime supply of ramen.

What is your favorite food? And why?

My favorite food would have to be instant ramen.

After I moved 1500 miles away from home to Florida and wasn't making much money trying to get on my feet, ramen has a space close to my heart because it was always cheap and reliable.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

My passion project is my job as Lead Mixologist

I'm not one that typically believes in things like astrology and therefore zodiac signs, but I always find it interesting how accurate you can find them to be at times. I am a Scorpio who are known for their loyalty and devotion - and also their passion.

They are known to have such intense personalities that they are often confused with vibrant fire signs because they just have deep feelings and emotions. Anyone that has ever come into my lounge or worked with me these days will confirm this by seeing how much of a perfectionist I am when it comes to my work.

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

I LOVE SCARY MOVIES. Most things generally have a hard time holding my attention so any movie that can keep me focused is a success for me. I'm a huge fan of the "Saw" series which is really more gore than horror but I've also been quite the fan of the "Insidious" series over the last few years. Anything to keep me in suspense.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

I really enjoy Halloween decorations but I never manage my time properly to decorate things myself. I have this strange obsession with skulls (think Dia de Los Muertes skulls).

My favorite Halloween candy growing up as a child and even to this day is any sour candy. I really like bold, powerful flavors so I don't typically lean towards your everyday candies (chocolate, etc.)

The perfect song for my life is Carry on Wayward Son by Kansas without a doubt. It's essentially a song about the struggles and pressures we all face on a daily basis, but that everything is going to workout if you just "carry on". Not to mention some insane guitar riffs. My father has always been my best friend and we've had a special bond over this song for as long as I can remember.

Through all the trials and tribulations of life, I knew everything was going to turn out alright if I just kept trying.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween?

What's your favorite costume?

Ever since I was a child I have always been that outcast that never liked to dress up for Halloween.

I have always had a deep fear of clowns.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

#Hashtag to live by?

20 OCTOBER 2023

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

#Knowyourworth So many of us this day and age are in a position, due to various circumstances, unhappy and working for companies/people who they know don't care about them and go to work everyday feeling like it's a chore in order to pay their bills. I, like most of us, completely understand this sentiment, but until you finally find a place where going to work feels more like home rather than a chore, you will always be unhappy.

and Lounge Director at Lugo's Craft Distillery by helping a loving, caring family get their small business up and running and more well known to the public at large. I just reached my 1-year Anniversary with the company this past August and the growth that we've had in the last year has been more than a blessing. By allowing me complete, creative freedom and always being gracious enough to take my opinions and ideas into account, we have been able to establish our lounge as one of the most popular places to get innovative and delicious craft cocktails in Lakeland and central Florida at large.

My favorite Fall-flavored cocktail is my Riskey Maple Old Fashioned. Our Single Barrel Riskey aged in New Charred American White Oak which got us into the Atlanta Whiskey Festival the last 3 years in a row added to some Riskey barrel-aged Vermont Maple syrup and some barrel-aged whiskey bitters, smoked with a maple/pecan blend and garnished with candied maple bacon. Perfection.

"Riskey" Maple Old Fashioned FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

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OCTOBER 2023 21

G

THE

ALA Presented by:

Mr. & Mrs.

George O ’Neill, Jr.

Save the Dates:

Online Silent Auction:

OCTOBER 27 - NOVEMBER 2, 2023

The Gala:

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023 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 “THE MAXX”, four-course gourmet dinner, exquisite wines and open bar, and exciting auctions filled with incredible trips and experiences.

SCAN TO EXPERIENCE THE GALA

All proceeds will be utilized locally to support the Foundation’s American Psychological Association accredited Clinical Psychology Training Program.

For more information: (863) 292-4138 or whhfoundation@baycare.org

22 OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 23

KAYANA OSCHMANN YBOR CIGAR BAR & SPIRITS/ LEO'S LIVE

5263 S Florida Ave. • Lakeland How many years you have worked as a bartender?

6 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

1.5 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

My secret to success would have to be crazy amount of patience and a good memory. I think that’s also what makes me able to have children and a boyfriend.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

If I wasn’t a bartender, I’d probably be a therapist, which is basically what I already do.

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

Anything Zach Bryan. #Hashtag to live by? #thatswhatshesaid

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

Coffee, Tiktok, My Family, Sweet Tea, and the double cassette copy of the Titanic.

And I’m aware I’m going to need a TV to watch it and it is not listed on the things I can’t live without... I know what I said.

What is your favorite food? And why?

My favorite food would have to be a Pub Sub. Nothing beats a Pub Sub. It is the most Floridian food to love.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I admire any non-profit that has to do with helping children with no family, whether that be feeding them, clothing them, or even finding them a family. No child deserves to not have a place to call home.

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

My zodiac sign is a Taurus. I am pretty stubborn and hardheaded, I think anyone who really knows me would have to agree.

I live in a house where 3 out of 4 of us are a Taurus, so I’m sure you can imagine.

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

Love them. I love the whole Conjuring

series, mainly because of the love between Loraine and Ed. #goals Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

I don’t really decorate for Halloween, more so for fall. I’m a basic white girl so anything pumpkins.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

I loved receiving the strawberry Twizzlers.

As an adult, when I go trick or treating with my kids.... I’m ashamed to say I do set aside the strawberry Twizzlers for mommy.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween? What's your favorite costume?

Working in a bar, I feel like it’s my only excuse to dress up for Halloween so I do enjoy it. My favorite costume would have to be the inflatable green alien that looks like it’s carrying you around.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

My favorite fall cocktail is a Pumpkin Spice White Russian. And my signature cocktail is called the Maple Whiskey Smash, so delicious.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

I feel so honored to be voted Top Ten this year! I’ve been bartending since I was 18 (6 years) and throughout the years I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the industry.

Thank you to everyone who voted for me!

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

Is drinking a hobby? If so, that.

But on a more serious note, I love being a mom. It’s my favorite thing in the world, my 2 kids are my everything and I enjoy everything I get to do with them.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation? Where did you go on your last trip?

My idea of a perfect vacation would have be somewhere tropical where I can sit on the beach with a margarita in my hand. My last trip was South Dakota... so the exact opposite.

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

I’ve always wanted to visit Europe to see where they filmed Harry Potter and Game of Thrones.

Maple Whiskey Smash 24 OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 25

CAMILLE FARLEY

APPLEBEE'S WINTER HAVEN

201 Cypress Gardens Blvd. • Winter Haven How many years you have worked as a bartender?

15 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

14 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

I believe that what makes me stand out as a bartender is the fact that I have sincere interactions with my guests and my regulars and I try to remember what people like and don't like. I enjoy when people have a great time and become return guests!

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

Well, so many options! I could see myself working in the health care field since I am very patient and have a caring nature. I would also do well in a creative environment like being in the arts or photography (which are some of my hobbies).

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

The soundtrack would have to be a major blend of all kinds of vibes of music to fit my mood and personality, music is key in life. It would have lots of metal because that's my go to genre that fits most situations. I also need some 80s pop to be goofy with, a few romantic ballads to serenade my love to, and some hiphop to have fun or be serious.

and bars, music venues, and an exciting night life to spend adventuring and experiencing together. On my last trip we went camping at Lake Kissimmee State park to take advantage of their dark skies to watch the Perseid meteor shower, it was absolutely stunning!!

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

This is so hard to decide and I am sure my answer will change depending on when I am asked. I'd love to visit Ireland to see where some of my family roots are from. I'd enjoy everything from the food and the beer, to the landscape and the history.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

I'm going to answer this in a sort of impractical way. I'd have to have my iPad so I could draw, listen to music, and take pictures, a solar powered battery pack, a bottle of whiskey, my glasses, and a lighter.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Super spicy chicken wings. I'm an absolute addict for spicy food and wings are just something that brings me joy. I love trying different hot sauces, it's almost a euphoric experience.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I'll always be working on my dreams book. I've decided to incorporate some illustrations now as well that will help to visually describe the abstract ways dreams turn sometimes.

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

Oh, so many things! I love kayaking and exploring the outdoors while camping or hiking.

Art has always been important to me whether it is painting, sculpting, doing photography, or doing digital art on my iPad. I also love going to concerts and seeing live music! Cooking is another passion of mine, especially when I get to cook for other people.

26 OCTOBER 2023

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

Yes I LOVE scary movies. Zombies, aliens, murderous rampages, demonic poaessions!

One of my favorite scary movies is Cabin in the Woods. It's got a good twist on a classic scary style. I'm also obsessed with Stephen King so it has always been up on the list as well.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

Oh yes, I decorate every year. Some years I go all out and transform my whole house. My favorite theme is always the classic pumpkins, spiderwebs, tombstones, black cats, and crystal balls.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

My favorite as a kid would be Skittles, especially sour Skittles. Now I still kinda gravitate towards the more sour candies like Lemonhead although I will never turn down a KitKat haha.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween?

What's your favorite costume?

Yes! I dress up every year! My favorite is always being something scary. I love painting my face, wearing wild contacts, and putting together a creepy/sexy outfit. Being a demon is one of my favorite costumes, and playing the part is fun too.

#Hashtag to live by? #Livefree Be yourself, be kind, be adventurous!

What's your idea of the perfect vacation?

Where did you go on your last trip?

For me it is a split decision. I would either be deep in nature, surrounded with wildlife, trees, a river, a nice fire to cook over, and my man by my side enjoying being cut off from the outside world. OR I would be in a city that has lots of culture with museums, different restaurants

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

I am a Sagittarius and yes, I would say I am definitely associated with this fire sign. I'm very adventurous and I like to try new experiences and have interesting conversations. I love thrills and pushing my boundaries from time to time. I'm creative and fun loving! I also have some drawbacks too where I can be too flighty and avoid hard conversations and procrastinate or just be to harsh when I don't need to be.

The Old Autumn

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

I'll always be a fan of a good caramel apple martini. I like the sweet and sour flavors together that always scream fall and Halloween events! This year for my signature cocktail I am going to go with a twist on an old fashioned that incorporates the spices of fall that most of us crave this time of year. It has Makers Mark, Disaronno, a a pinch of Angry Orchard cider.

I'm calling it "The Old Autumn".

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OCTOBER 2023 27

CAITLIN HART CHILI'S AUBURNDALE 2323 US 92 • Auburndale

How many years you have worked as a bartender?

1 year.

How long have you worked for this company?

7 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

My success to being a bartender is connecting with my guests on a fun level.

People like for you to be quick with drinks but at the same time like it more when you put in the effort to get to know them. I remember a lot of drinks and alot of times are being made as soon as I see them about to come through the front door.

My guests feel so welcomed and have a smile on their face as soon as they sit down because I remember them. When I am busy I still communicate with them to let them know I have other drinks in the restaurant to make and they are always so understanding. I really enjoy the guests that come and sit at my bar.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

If I wasn’t a bartender, I think my profession would be massage therapy. I love helping people it makes me feel really good when I can make a difference in peoples lives.

Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

I love to go out and play darts, I picked up on this hobby years ago and it has always been something I love to do.

wouldn’t have it any other way. Right now as a brand we are raising money for the St. Jude’s hospital and I'm really happy to say I can be apart of a good cause.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation? Where did you go on your last trip?

My idea of the perfect vacation is going to the beach and being with the people you love. As a kid my parents would always make sure we had a vacation to the beach every summer. So the beach is definitely one of my favorite places to visit. My last vacation was to Daytona beach.

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

Zodiac sign is Aries and from my research it does define my character.

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

Ireland On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

Tent, water, food, weapon and sunglasses.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Homemade seafood Alfredo because my father makes the best.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I’m passionate about showing up to work and giving my guests a memorable time at my bar I love doing the work that I do I

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

My favorite scary movie is Annabelle.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

I don’t decorate but my favorite decorations to see is haunted house theme.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

As a child my favorite candy was Nerds and now it’s anything chocolate lol.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween? What's your favorite costume?

I don’t dress up every year but I my favorite is the Purge costumes.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

My favorite Halloween drink is a Hocus Pocus cocktail. My signature drink is a Witches Brew.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

I'm 27 years old, was born in 1996. I didn’t come into this world alone, I have a twin sister that also works with me at Chili's Auburndale. We are a lot alike in many ways. We were both raised in Auburndale.

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

Don’t Stop Believing by Journey #Hashtag to live by? #success

Witches Brew 28 OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 29

30 OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 31

CANDICE REED THE OFFICE PUB & LOUNGE

What's your idea of the perfect vacation?

Where did you go on your last trip?

A Perfect Vacation would be stress free, work free, and probably on a Beach somewhere. My last trip was with my daughter, to California, to visit my family!

How many years you have worked as a bartender?

8 years.

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

Puerto Rico or Greece.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

My favorite candy as a child and as an adult has always been sour Skittles or Lemonhead.

On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

Purified bottle water, Tooth brush/paste, My Glasses, My Dog (Lady) and a razor!

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween?

What's your favorite costume?

I love to dress up! My favorite costume would be something from the Britney Spears era or Police Officer.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Tacos! Why not? LOL! Who doesn't love tacos!

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

Coquito is my favorite Fall flavored cocktail.

And my signature drink would have to be the Mexican Candy.

1243 1st St S • Winter Haven

How long have you worked for this company?

7 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

Attentiveness! Customers love when you remember their drink order and/or refer to them by their name. It shows that you pay attention & have interest in what they have to say. Just be talkative!

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

Special Victims Detective!

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

Return of the Mack by Mark Morrison. #Hashtag to live by? #LivingMyBestLife Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

I LOVE LOVE LOVE THE BEACH! It's my favorite place in the entire world!

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

Fantasy Football League.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

Not big on Halloween decorations, but a favorite theme of mine would be anything 90s related.

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

LEO is my sign and YES, I 100% have a Leo personality.

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

I love classic Scary Movies. Friday the 13th would have to be my favorite or Thirteen Ghosts.

Mexican Candy 32 OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 33

SKYLAR MAZZARELLA BREW HOUNDS SPORTS LOUNGE 318 Havendale Blvd. • Auburndale

How many years you have worked as a bartender?

12 years.

How long have you worked for this company?

2 years.

What is the secret to your success as a bartender?

I think you really have to enjoy people. Be quick witted, and obviously fast and a good multi-tasker.

If you weren't a bartender, what would your profession be?

Professional Angler, Bull Rider maybe a shrimp boat captain. Hand and foot model.

What is the perfect sound track or song for your life?

Eminem 25 to Life. #Hashtag to live by? #livefreedietrying Hobbies? Tell us what you love to do?

Fishing.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation? Where did you go on your last trip?

Anywhere there is water. Just visited Puerto Rico

What's your zodiac sign? Is your personality type defined by this character?

The only zodiac sign that matters AQUARIUS. Definitely defines my personality, clearly.

Like scary movies? If so, what's your favorite?

Yes!! Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

Do you like to decorate for Halloween?

What's your favorite theme?

Yes I do. I like Skulls and spiders.

What was your favorite Halloween Candy to receive as a child? How about now as an adult?

Reese's. Reese's.

Do you still like to dress up for Halloween? What's your favorite costume?

Yes I do. I won a Halloween costume contest as Pocahontas that was my favorite.

What's your favorite Fall-flavored or Halloween inspired cocktail? And, what's your signature cocktail?

I made a lavender infused gin martini, mixed with lemonade and Mike's Hot Honey that’s delicious, not really Halloween related but pretty good.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We'd love to know more about you!

Nothing really other than the fact that I am extremely honored that I got voted for this contest.

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

Bora Bora On a desert island, what 5 things can you NOT live without?

Fishing pole. Water. Dove soap. Miller Lite.

Chocolate.

What is your favorite food? And why?

Any kind of seafood because it’s delicious and I can get it myself. And white rice, I have no reasonable expectation for that.

Do you have a passion project or non-profit that you admire or are involved with? And why?

I definitely have a passion project, but I cannot discuss it because I don’t want someone to take my idea BUT it involves helping homeless people and animals.

34 OCTOBER 2023

Lavender Infused Gin Martini FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND WWW.TODAYANDTONIGHT.COM

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OCTOBER 2023 35

POLK’S BELOVED BARTENDERS

HONORABLE MENTIONS Listed in Alphabetical Order by Last Name Haley

Alford

Amy

Alvarado

Ines

Applegate

Rowdy

Armes

Lauren

Barnhill

Jason

Ciavardone

Tammi

Cisenro

Jairo

Colon

Kayla

Compton

Soraya

Cook

Kelsey

Curlutu

Michelle

Davidson

Stephanie

Davies

Mariah

Dawkins

Carol

Debadts

Dennis

Dickie

Shanice

Easterwood

Tara

Edwards

Rick

Eva

Justin

Fletch

Cassie

Fornaratto

Johnny

Gibson

Gloria

Gregg

Kalyenn

Griffin

Sam

Grimes

Chris

Gutman

Savannah

Hadsock

Courtney

Hall

Alison

Harding

Logan

Harrison

Kristin

Haverty

Heather

Heather

Heather

Hernandez

Stephanie

Herr Shaub

Terrah

Holley

Tammi

Inez

Amanda

Irene

Brannon

Johnson

Shannon

Kelley

Court

Kilpattick

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Linksters

Lakeland

Cypresswood Pub

Winter Haven

Office Pub & Lounge Lucille’s American Cafe Mojo Federal

Lucky’s Oyster & Tiki Bar Tanner’s Lakeside

Office Pub & Lounge Linksters

Showgirls Gentlemen’s Club 1916 Irish Pub

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge Grillsmith

Apple Lounge & Grill

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge Linksters Chili’s

Tuff Luck Saloon

Streamsong Resort The Social lounge The Wine Stable Old Man Frank’s

Cherry Pocket Steak n Seafood Shak The Port Steak and Seafood Leo’s Live Music & Billiards Manny’s Winter Haven Apple Lounge & Grill

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge Slate 8 Family Billiards

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge The Wheelhouse Bar & Pub Tanner’s Lakeside

Winners Circle Bar & Grill Tanner’s Lakeside Union Hall

Tanner’s lakeside La La Land Barrel239

Desperados

AJ Slammers

Winter Haven Winter Haven Lakeland Lakeland

Winter Haven Winter Haven Lakeland

Plant City Lakeland

Auburndale Lakeland

Winter Haven Auburndale Lakeland

Auburndale

Winter Haven

Bowling Green Winter Haven Bartow

Winter Haven Lake Wales Haines City Lakeland

Winter Haven Winter Haven Auburndale

Winter Haven Aurbandale Davenport

Winter Haven Lakeland

Winter Haven Lakeland

Winter Haven Lakeland

Winter Haven Bartow

Winter Haven

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Michelle

Lawson

Kathleen

Leone

Wellie

Liao

Ashley

Lollar

Tiffany

M

Lesli

McCarthy

Amanda

McNay

Taylor

Michener

Jeanine

Musselman

Matty

Myers

Tim

N/A

Kim

N/A

Kim

Noelle

Alyse

Norman

Ashley

Ortiz

Alexis

Palega

Megan

Peer

Melanie

Perez

Marissa

Pesche

Jackie

Pina

Rachel

Pollock

Carrie

Postell

Mark

Powell

Brittany

Prine

Jeanine

Probst

Matt

Ragsdale

Amanda

Richards

Jordan

Roberts

Jessica

Roy

Anthony

Schaffer

Alyson

Schouler

Kevin

Schwartz

Mariah

Shalone

Amanda

Skinner

Stefanie

Skolfield

Stephanie

Spaulding

Carrie

Stinnett

Athena

Stith

Stephanie

Straub

Jordan

Street

Amber

Suhina

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Tillman

Megan

Towner

Courtney

Vaughn

Jennifer

Ward

EJ

Whatley

Alexa

Williams

Lacey

Woodruff

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Apple Lounge & Grill

Winter Haven

Obscure Wine Co

Winter Haven

Tipsy Gypsy

Office Pub & Lounge Liquor Up

Harborside

Drunken Parrot

Apple Lounge & Grill T Bows 33 Lounge

Tuckers’ Southside Smokey Bones Applebee’s

Cherry Pocket Steak n Seafood Shak Tanner’s lakeside

Brew Hounds Sports Lounge Dukes Brewhouse Barrel239

WACO Kitchen

LA’s Midway Saloon

Leo’s Live / Ybor Cigars and Spirits TA Slammers

Office Pub & Lounge

Paddy Wagon Lakeland The Pink Piano

T Bows 33 Lounge

Paddy Wagon Irish pub La La Land Lounge Krazy Kooters

Laugh Out Lounge Caribbean Bay Barrel239

The Social Lounge

Apple Lounge & Grill La La Land Lounge

Lucky’s Oyster & Tiki Bar La La Land Lounge Chili’s

Carribean Bay

Tanner’s Lakeside Paddy Wagon

Wild Greg’s Saloon

Apple Lounge & Grill TA Slammers

Outback Steakhouse

Lucky’s Oyster & Tiki Bar Barrel239

LA’s Midway Lounge Bd’s Mongolian Grill

Brandon

Winter Haven Haines City

Winter Haven Saint Cloud

Winter haven Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland

Lake Wales

Winter Haven Auburndale Lakeland

Winter Haven Lakeland

Lake Alfred Lakeland Lakeland

Winter Haven Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland Bartow

Winter Haven Winter Haven Winter Haven Winter Haven Winter Haven Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland

Auburndale

Winter Haven Winter Haven Lakeland Lakeland

Winter Haven Lakeland Lakeland Lakeland

Winter Haven Lake Alfred Lakeland

OCTOBER 2023 37

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TOP 7

MOST UNIQUE BARS NORTHERNMOST BAR IN CONTINENTAL U.S.

by James Coulter As you can tell from this month’s issue, Polk County is home to many iconic bars and bartenders. However, there are plenty of unique bars around the world—from the top of the mountains to the bottom of the sea, from the middle of the desert to the tundra of Antarctica. So, pack your suitcase, get your passport, and bring along your favorite beer or wine glass as we check out seven of the most unique bars around the world.

Frozen Foot Saloon (Coldfoot, Alaska) If you were traveling to Coldfoot, Alaska around the turn of the last century, chances are you were a prospector seeking gold, only to get “cold feet” once you felt the below-freezing temperatures. (Hence the name, ColdFoot!)

ery. The bar is open to tourists, who can enjoy $3 vodka and free drinks for female patrons willing to swap their bras for a drink.

Source: The Thrillist

HIGHEST ROOFTOP BAR

OZONE Rooftop Bar (Hong Kong) If you’re looking for a bar with a view that will make you feel on top of the world, then check out the OZONE Rooftop Bar in Hong Kong. Located on the 118th floor of the city’s ICC Tower, the OZONE Rooftop Bar sits as the world’s highest rooftop bar at 1,608 feet—making it taller than the Empire State Building.

In fact, this rooftop bar is so high up, you

need to take two separate elevators to reach it.

Once you arrive, you’ll be dazzled by the bar’s glass-paneled terrace, which offers an almost dizzying view over Victoria Bay and Hong Kong Island. As The Travel succinctly puts it, “If there’s any way that a person wants to see this grand city, it should be with a beverage in one hand, tapas in the other, and a landscape like this.”

Source: The Travel

46 OCTOBER 2023

Faraday Bar is manned by the 12 Ukrainian researchers residing at the base. The area experiences below-freezing temperatures yearround with nearly 280 days of snow. The beer served at the bar is brewed at an on-site distill-

Nowadays, if you’re visiting this remote village, it’s so you can have the honor of ordering a cold one at the northernmost bar in Alaska, which is part of the farthest-north truck stop in the continental U.S. Visiting Coldfoot will take you far north across the Arctic Circle. The Frozen Foot Saloon serves Silver Gulch craft beer, locally brewed at Fairbanks. The location from the highway not only provides a clear view of the Trans-Alaskan pipeline and the Yukon River bridge, but also a view of the Aurora Borealis.

Being located directly underneath the Aurora Oval, and with clear skies 80 percent of the year, you have a good chance of seeing the Aurora.

Source: Cold Foot Camp

HIGHEST BAR ABOVE SEA-LEVEL

Irish Pub (Namche Bazaar, Nepal) If you’re looking for an authentic Irish pub experience, chances are the last place you’d look is near the peak of Mt. Everest. Yet located in a small remote village in Nepal, at 11,483 feet (nearly two miles) above sea level, the Irish Pub in Namche Bazaar stands as the world’s highest Irish bar by elevation. (Nearby

SOUTHERNMOST BAR ON EARTH

Faraday Bar (Vernadsky Research Base, Antarctica) Located at 65º 15′ S, around five miles off the Antarctic Peninsula, Faraday Bar is considered the southernmost, most remote bar on the planet. The bar is located at the Vernadsky Research Base in Antarctica, which, according to The Thrillist, is “some 1,000 nautical miles from anything resembling a city.” As such, supplies often have to be shipped to its inhabitants.

Mt. Everest stands at 29,029 feet tall!)

So remote is this village and bar that getting there requires a flight to the “world’s scariest airport” and a two-day trek through the Himalayas. Once there, patrons can enjoy an authentic Irish pub experience with foosball and pool tables, a wide range of alcohol with an emphasis on Irish imports, and some

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unique cocktails such as the Yak Attack, the Khumbu Ice Fall, and the Sherpa Killer. And, of course, what trip to the Himalayas would be complete without a Yak steak?

Source: Irish Central, BuzzFeed

tor doors, the bar stools are hand-welded steel, and the ceiling is made of stamped tin.”

From the saloon, visitors can see the Arizona desert wilderness with its dusty desert flora and fauna. Those seeking to come the

WORLD’S FIRST UNDERSEA RESTAURANT

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (Republic of Maldives) As the popular Disney song goes, down there is better down where it’s wetter under the sea. And would make for a more amazing, unforgettable dining or drinking experience “back way” on an off-road four-wheel drive, as the website further elaborates, “also have the opportunity to experience the steep hills and beautiful desert scenery on the way.”

Source: Go Lake Havasu

MOST REMOTE BAR IN THE WORLD than enjoying a meal and drink underwater?

The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (named after “mother-of-pearl” in Dhivehi) is located 16 feet under the water near an island in the Republic of Maldives.

Opened in 2005, it is considered the first undersea restaurant of its kind. Guests take 33 stairs down a spiral staircase to the unique 16-by-30-foot facility, which can accommodate up to 14 people with a scenic 270° panoramic underwater view of the Indian Ocean and its diverse ocean life including sharks!

Source: We Are The Globe

The Rock Restaurant (Michamvi Beach, Zanzibar) What could be better than a drink on the rocks? How about having a drink on a rock in the middle of the ocean? You can do just that at The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar. This scenic bar stands isolated atop a rocky island in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

During high tide, you can reach the place by boat; and at low tide, you can walk to it along the sandbar. Once you ascend the rickety wooden stairs to the lone wooden hut, you can seat yourself at one of 12 tables and enjoy

MIDDLE OF THE DESERT

Nellie E. Saloon (Parker, Arizona) After wandering the scorching desert, most anyone would be panting for a cold one.

Fortunately, one dusty old tavern in the middle of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona offers just that. Nellie E. Saloon, commonly known as the Desert Bar, is located half an hour from Parker, Arizona amid the Buckskin Mountains.

Built on the site of an old copper mining camp, this bar is as rustic as rustic can be.

As Go Lake Havasu states: “At first, the saloon was a three-sided enclosed room, not much bigger than a small storage shed...Its windows are made out of old glass refrigera-

a seafood meal or cocktail or both. The prices are pricey, but the ocean view is priceless!

As the website Further Africa states: “No matter what name you call it, ‘The Place on the Rock’ or ‘The Restaurant on the Floating Rock’ it is one of the most unique dining experiences you’ll ever have.”

Source: Further Africa

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IN THE WORLD

From the top of the mountains to the bottom of the sea, from the middle of the desert to the tundra of Antarctica.

OCTOBER 2023 47

OCTOBER 2023

Resort, Lk Wales. Thurs, 2-9 pm.

Fri, 12-10 pm. Sat, 9 am-10 pm. www.CampMack.com

OCT 28

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

OCT 6

– Oct First Friday. Head to Downtown Lakeland on the first Friday of every month for First Friday; new theme each month.

This month is Cookie Carnival 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 events: Nov 3, USO Dancing Under the Stars & Dec 1, Hometown Holiday)

OCT 6

– 16th Annual Oktoberfest.

Hosted by Main Street Winter Haven and presented by Victor Smith Law Group. Enjoy over 40 Florida craft, local and German beers! Buy a tasting ticket and sample as many of the beers as you’d like! Bratwurst and German food favorites available. Brass Heart Band performing polka and music favorite. Admission is free if you want to enjoy food and music without partaking in the beer tasting. Located downtown Central Park, Winter Haven. Fri, 6-9 pm.

Tasting Ticket: $30 presale, $40 at the event. www.MainStreetWH.com

48 OCTOBER 2023

OCT 7

– Hispanic Heritage Celebration. Get ready to embrace Hispanic and Latino cultures’ vibrant colors, flavors, and rhythms at this free family friendly event.

From an artisan market to dancing and a live DJ, special offers from The Depot and Rooftop Bar, food trucks, and so much more.

Live music headliner Bidi Bidi Banda, a Selena tribute band from Austin, Texas, will take the stage from 6:30-8 pm. Admission is free and the event is open to all ages! Located at Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland. Sat, 12-8 pm. https:// bonnetspringspark.com/bienvenido-a-bsp-hispanic-heritage-celebration-2023/

OCT 12

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

OCT 14

– Plant PopUp in Munn Park. Join us for a Plant Pop Up in Munn Park from 8am to 2pm!

Plant and Garden-related vendors will be bringing their verdant wares to help customers spruce up their Fall gardens. This Downtown Lakeland event will be taking place in conjunction with the Downtown Farmers Curb Market on Kentucky Ave. from 8am-2pm. www.

DowntownLKLD.com

OCT 14

– Bartow Con. An indoor event with over 100 vendors, that will specialize in vintage toys, pop culture collectibles, unique collectibles, comic books and many other items. There will be authors, fan organizations, costume enthusiast, cosplayers, food trucks, large props, 501st Star Wars fan club, cos play photo area, live entertainment on the main stage, large panel room with a lot of intriguing discussions, costume fashion show,

trivia contest and special guest stars TBA. Located at the Bartow Civic Center, Bartow. Sat, 10 am.

Free parking. www.BartowCon.com

OCT 17

– Tasty Tuesday + 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: Nov 21, Dec 19) https://ldda.square.site/product/ tasty-tuesday-tickets/31?cs=true&cst=custom

OCT 20

to 22 – Lake Mirror Classic. The Lake Mirror Classic has become one of the premier automotive events in the southeast.

The display of more than 500 vehicles and surrounding the restored 1920’s, art deco-inspired Lake Mirror promenade in downtown Lakeland, Florida, annually draws 35,000 spectators. This year’s feature marque is, Porsche. Friday is Hot Rod Rendezvous from 5-10 pm. Saturday is Concours d’Elegance and Downtown Classic Car Show from 10-4 pm. Sunday is Road Rally from 9-2 pm. Located at Lake Mirror. Free to attend. https:// lakemirrorclassic.com

OCT 26

to 28 – Rock ‘N’ Brews BBQ Festival. For pitmasters and cook teams this weekend will include FBA Sanctioned BBQ contest with Professional and Backyard Divisions, Kids Cook-off, Ancillary Contest, Bonfire Party, and more! For those who want to cheer on their favorite teams, we will have BBQ Vendors, a Craft Fair on Saturday, and Live Music on the Riverfront from local bands on Friday and Saturday for you to enjoy. Proceeds for the event will be raised for the Freedom Tour for mobile relief for those in need in Polk County. Located Camp Mack

– Fall Night Market in Downtown. An evening under the full moon for shopping, dining and live music in Downtown Lakeland.

Retail shops will be open late, and Kentucky Ave will be filled with food, artisan vendors, crafters, live music and more! Feel free to bring the whole family and come dressed in your Halloween gear, but this is NOT a trick-or-treat or carnival type of event. Enjoy 100+ vendors from Lemon Street to Oak Street, Live Music,Adult beverages. Located in downtown Lakeland. Sat, 5-9 pm. www.DowntownLKLD.com

OCT 28

& 29 – 47th Annual Pioneer Days Festival. A 2-day heritage celebration. Includes: Historical Demonstrators, Pioneer Camps, Early American Trades, Craft Market Vendors, Live Music, Festival Food & Drinks, Car and Tractor Show, Pumpkin Patch Kids Activity Area with fall crafts, games, corn crib, hay play, and photo station. Also, visit with your favorite community organization booths and join in the Pioneer of the Year Celebration to honor pioneers from the past and present.

Funds raised at the event support the museum’s historic preservation projects and public programming.

Located on the Shores of Lake Wailes, Lake Wales. Sat & Sun, 9-5 pm.

NOV 3

– 9th Annual Wine, Chocolate, and Cheese. Hosted by Main Street Winter Haven. We invite you to explore Downtown Winter Haven while enjoying Wine, Chocolate, and Cheese. Tasting tickets include a specially designed map that outlines the participating businesses and the official tasting glass. With over 40 local shops taking part in this immersive experience, you’ll have the opportunity to experience carefully curated wine and chocolate, or wine and cheese pairings.

Located downtown Winter Haven.

Fri, 5:30-8:30 pm. Tasting Ticket: $30 presale, $40 at the event. www.MainStreetWH.com

NOV 4

– 39-Mile Scenic Highway Sale.

Annual 39-Mile Scenic Hwy Yard Sale is held each November, and sellers and buyers alike have a special opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Ridge Scenic Highway Scenic corridor. Sat, 8-2 pm. jnanek@lakewalesfl.gov

NOV 11

& 12 – Bartow Chalk Walk Festival. 2-day event that the artists will be blocking, filling in, blend-

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ing, contouring, shading until their work is complete. Festival goers will vote on their favorites. Awards are Sunday at 3 pm as the artists will have finished their work starting with the “Sponsor’s Choice,” awarded by presenting sponsor, John & Terry Frost from the Frost Law Firm; followed by the “People’s Choice Award.” Bartow is extending its famous hometown hospitality to 25+ artists from near and far.

Located Fort Blount Park, downtown Bartow. Sat & Sun, 9-4 pm.

NOV 25

–

Friendsgiving at Tanners.

Cardboard Boat Races at 4 pm (build starts 1-3:30 pm), Bounce Houses, Hula-Hoop, 50/50, Raffles, Contests and more! Live music with Phoenix 5. Located at Tanners Lakeside (Tiki), 1006 Lk Howard Dr SW, Winter Haven. Sat, 12-6 pm.

Markets, Antique Fairs & Car Shows 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.

OCT 8

- 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

OCT 19

- 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.

OCT 20

– 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

OCT 6

– Concert Under the Stars: RUNA at Bok Tower Gardens.

Celebrating 14 years together as a band, Celtic-American Roots music “supergroup,” RUNA continues to push the boundaries of Irish folk music into the Americana and roots music formats. RUNA offers a thrilling and redefining take on traditional music by Interweaving Ireland and Scotland’s haunting melodies and exuberant tunes with the lush harmonies and intoxicating rhythms of jazz, bluegrass, flamenco, and blues. (Oct 6, Runa; Oct 14, Wine Walk & KeySoundSoul; Oct 20, The Lubben Bros.; Nov 3, Dervish) Please bring your own chair or blanket. Located Bok Tower Gardens, Lk Wales. Fri, 7 pm. Tickets - $35 Members, $45 Non-Members ($50 Day of). www.

BokTowerGardens.org

OCT 14

– Country Western Music & Car Show at Balmoral.

Enjoy performances by Big Time Country 2 pm, Joey Foley 4 pm and Chasin Jason 7 pm. Car show from 10-2 pm. Located Balmoral Bar & Grill, 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City.

Sat, 10 am-10 pm. Free entrance. www.BalmoralBarAndGrill.com

OCT 14

– Smokin’ the Boston; Renegade Styx Tribute at the Ritz. One of the hardest bands to pay tribute to is Boston, and Smokin’ has those massive soaring vocals, amazing harmonies, layered signature guitar sound, dynamic keyboard effects, and plays all the classic hits to the tee!

Then watch them transform into Renegade, as they authentically recreate the music of Styx. This South Florida pro-level band is made up of members that have toured with national acts, played in some of the biggest tribute bands, and are consummate professional musicians with many years of playing experience. 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

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OCT 17

– A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. “Oh What A Night!” is an intimate, family-friendly concert and celebration of one of the most enduring pop musical icons of our time, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Delighting audiences of all ages since it originally premiered in Las Vegas, the show always leaves the audience exclaiming Oh What A Night! Located at the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Tues, 7 pm.

Tickets - $79.50, $69.50 plus parking. www.RPFundingCenter.com

OCT 19

– CAL’s The Police, “Synchronicity”. Performed “Note for note... cut for cut,” the Classic Albums Live Concert Series features an album which has sold over 18 million copies worldwide: The Police, “Synchronicity” Oct 19 and The Lithium Experience Dec 15.

Located at the Youkey Theatre, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. Thurs, 7:30 pm. Tickets - $52, $41 plus parking. www.RPFundingCenter. com

OCT 27

– The U.S. Bee Gees; A Bee Gees Tribute at the Ritz. An 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. 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 $20. www.RitzWinterHaven.com

NOV 11

– Bartow Ford’s Concert On The Lot. Bartow Ford is sending its event plans into high gear again with an incredible Country Music concert that will feature multi-platinum GRAMMY nominee and CMA and ACM award winner Lee Brice. Lee will be supported by one of his good friends, country music vocal powerhouse Randy Houser—so it is going to be a night you do not want to miss.

Bring your own chair. No outside food or drink. Located at Bartow Ford, Bartow. Sat, 6:30-10:30 pm.

Doors open at 5 pm. Tickets - $31. www.BartowFord.com/concert

Charity Events & Golf Tournaments

OCT 21

– 8th Annual Fore the Love.

Golf and women’s tennis tournament hosted for the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation. The online silent auction & raffle drawing runs from Oct 12 to Oct 21. All proceeds support the Winter Haven Women’s Hospital and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Locate at the Country Club of Winter Haven. www.whhfoundation.org

NOV 2

– The Gala.

Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s premier fundraising event featuring live music four-course dinner, open bar as well as live and silent auctions. The online silent auction runs from Oct 27 to Nov 2. Located at Nora Mayo Hall, Winter Haven. Thurs, 5:30-11 pm. www.whhfoundation.org

DEC 5

NOV 4

– Latin Rock Festival & Motorcycle Show at Balmoral.

Artists include: Dori Loli, Nino Davis, D-Tour, Codigo 787. Located Balmoral Bar & Grill, 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City. Sat, 2-11 pm. www.BalmoralBarAndGrill.com

– Humane Society’s Santa Paws. Annual benefit for the Humane Society of Polk County.

Live music by KeySoundSoul.

Appetizers by Arabella’s. Raffles, Silent Auctions & more. Hosted at Jensen’s Corner Bar, downtown Winter Haven. Tues, 6-9:30 pm.

Tickets - $50; sponsorships available.

Contact Tracey Greene (863) 2218505 or tgreene0422@gmail.com for more info. www.PolkNoKill.org

NOV 10

JAN 28

– The Great Gatsby by Symphony Guild of Winter Haven. Enjoy a big band concert by The TWH Big Band. An evening of Big Band music, led

by Brent Booher, President of Symphony Guild with a Great Gatsby theme. Located at The Black Box at Theatre Winter Haven. Fri, 7-9 pm; doors at 6:30 pm. For more info, www.

SymphonyGuildOfWinterHaven.org

– Annual Wine & Roses.

NEW DATE! Due to construction, there is a new date. Presented by Symphony Guild of Winter Haven in partnership with Main Street Winter Haven. The Harris/Barone Quartet performs jazz favorites. Members only event: become a member or renew your membership. Located at Gram Parsons Derry Down, Winter Haven. Sun, 3-5 pm. Doors open 2:30 pm. www.symphonyguildofwinterhaven.org

OCTOBER 2023 49

50 OCTOBER 2023

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• Chloroform was once used in the treatment of asthma, cholera and gonorrhea, not to mention as a sweetener in medicines.

• Folks around the world really do love their soda -- to the tune of about 6,700 cans per second, or enough to wrap around the earth every 17 hours. Be sure to recycle!

• International animal rights organization PETA asked musical duo the Pet Shop Boys to change their name to Rescue Shelter Boys. (Obviously, they refused.)

• During a Bulls vs. Jazz game in 1987, after basketball legend Michael Jordan dunked over John Stockton, a 6 foot, 1 inch guard, an upset fan yelled at him to “pick on someone your own size.” In response, Jordan

1. TELEVISION: How many noble houses are mentioned in “Game of Thrones”?

2. MOVIES: What is the name of the high school in the musical film “Grease”?

3. GEOGRAPHY: Which southeast Asian country’s monetary unit is the ringgit?

4. MUSIC: The song “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” is from which musical?

5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the first president to be impeached?

6. ANATOMY: What is considered the “master gland” of the human body?

7. PHYSICS: What does a newton measure?

next dunked over the 6 foot, 11 inch Mel Turpin, turned to his heckler, and asked, “Was he big enough?”

• Slave ants capture ants from other colonies to increase their workforce.

• If you measure it in terms of rainfall, a hurricane releases the force of 10,000 atomic bombs over an area about 413 miles wide.

• The prevalence of syphilis in the 19th century led to a sharp increase in demand for sunglasses, as the disease causes intense sensitivity to light if left untreated.

• Thousands of years ago, keys were made from wood.

• During the “I smell a rat” scene in the Martin Scorsese flick “The Departed,” Jack Nicholson decided things didn’t feel quite intense enough, so he improvised by pulling a real gun on co-star Leonardo DiCaprio.

8. HISTORY: Which founding father wanted the turkey to be the national symbol of America rather than the eagle?

9. SCIENCE: What is studied in mycology?

10. U.S. STATES: What is Alaska’s state animal?

Answers 1. Nine.

2. Rydell High School.

3. Malaysia.

4. “Oklahoma!”

5. Andrew Johnson, 1868.

6. Pituitary gland.

7. Force.

8. Benjamin Franklin.

9. Fungi.

10. The moose.

• You want to become a police officer in Norway, you’ll need a B.A. from the Police University College.

The program includes theoretical studies in criminal law, ethics and social sciences, plus a year of practical field training.

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I Want To Believe I consider myself a somewhat rational person. I have my own personal religious beliefs.

Otherwise, I’m not a big believer in the paranormal or supernatural.

And I certainly don’t buy into conspiracy theories.

However, despite all of that, I will admit I am rather agnostic about aliens, ghosts, and cryptids.

What do I mean by that? Well, just as an agnostic is a person who is uncertain whether or not God exists, I remain uncertain whether or not aliens or ghosts exist.

Have I ever seen a ghost or an alien? No. Do I believe they exist?

Judging by my own lack of experience with them, also no. But do I know that other people have claimed to have seen aliens or ghosts? Yes. For the record, I’m by no means a big enthusiast about aliens or ghosts or cryptozoology. I don’t watch “documentaries” about them. I don’t browse websites on the dark side of the web. And I certainly don’t attend conventions with other people who do believe in them. And yet, even in my lack of personal experience or event interest, I feel there’s a good chance that aliens or ghosts or even Bigfoot himself may exist.

Most other supernatural claims or conspiracy theories can be debunked easily. You can prove the earth is round and not flat. Or that man did in fact first land on the moon in 1969. Or that 9/11 was an outside job. Or that a “psychic” is using cold reasoning for their predictions. Or that homeopathic medicine doesn’t work. All of those have tangible claims that can be tested and disproven.

But when it comes to ghosts or aliens or even Bigfoot, there have been countless, disparate accounts of potential sightings to be properly analyzed or debunked. Far too

many people have claimed to have seen a UFO or a ghost for the phenomenon to be a mere coincidence or fabrication.

Does that make their claims more credible? Probably. Probably not. But I’m not cynical enough to call them all liars. Some most likely are. And many of them are most likely grifters. But they can’t all be lying, can they?

At the very least, they saw something. Was that something a ghost or alien? Maybe. Or maybe it was an optical illusion. Or a hallucination. But at the most, they saw something. And I feel that something is at least worth investigating.

Do I believe in ghosts? No. But do I know that stories about sightings of the spirits of the dead have been present in almost every culture since the dawn of civilization?

Yes. Do I believe in Bigfoot? No. But do I know that more than 18,000 new species are discovered every year? Yes. Do I believe in aliens? No. But do I know that the Drake Equation postulates there’s one in a million million other planets that have the right conditions to support biological life? Yes. Do I believe in flying saucers?

No. But do I know that hundreds of “unidentified flying objects” are spotted in the night sky every year? Yes. Do I believe? No. Do I want to believe? Perhaps. And is there a good enough reason for others to believe? Maybe. And if there’s a slight chance something might be true, then it very well might be.

As Special Agent Mulder always says, “The truth is out there.”

The views and opinions expressed in columns are not necessarily the views and opinions of Today & Tonight Magazine or Today & Tonight, Inc.

OCTOBER 2023 51

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 Oct 27, Halloween Party 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

DAVENPORT

FT. MEADE

LAKE ALFRED

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 45653 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-3350 Full Liquor Great Wings, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps

Pit Stop Package & Lounge 800 N Charleston Ave (863) 285-8732 Food Avail.

LA’s Midway Saloon (Across from WH Airport) 3900 Lynchburg Rd (863) 875-7966 Hpy Hr 11-3p; Specials M-F

Fireside Lounge & Billiards 43356 US Hwy 27 (863) 420-0100 Pool Hall; 7 Pro Tables Full Liquor/Hpy Hr 2-7p Live Music

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 120 E Van Fleet Dr (863) 534-3111 Full Liquor Sports Bar

The Wheelhouse Bar 42637 US Hwy 27 (863) 353-6880 TVs, Pool Table Darts, Jukebox Wed & Sat, Karaoke 9p

Fun Bar 3379 US Hwy 17N (863) 800-3400 Karaoke Pool Table & Darts

The Wheelhouse/19th Hole 102 Polo Park East (863) 424-4560 Tue & Fri, Karaoke 9p Thu, Trivia 8-10p

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 Karaoke

52 OCTOBER 2023

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 Sun, Karaoke Thu, Ladies Night Mon & Wed, Closed

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

Full Liquor

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 Oct 28, Halloween Prty 7-11p Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 902 Polk City Rd (863) 419-4848 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs

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

Ducky’s Dockside Bar & Grill 1090 Shady Cove Rd E (863) 353-5295 Thu, Acoustic Jam 6p Fri, Karaoke 6p Sat & Sun, Live Music

The Back Nine 124 S Tennessee Ave (863) 510-5723 Open Daily Golf Simulators Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Full Bar Thu, Trivia 7:30p

Rudy’s Liquorup Lounge 600 Ingraham Ave (863) 422-8585 Karaoke, Darts, Billiards Live Bands Happy Hour 12-7p

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

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

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 Dissent Craft Brewing Co 125 S Kentucky Ave (863) 450-4351 Mon-Thu, 3-10p Fri & Sat, 12-10p Sun, 12-8p Oct 19 – Painting Prty 6-9p

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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 Gator’s Dockside Highland City 5135 S.R. 98 (863) 619-7627 Food, Full Bar Open late night Hookah Palace 122 S Kentucky Ave (863) 688-1818 Hrs: Wed & Thu, 5p-12a Fri & Sat, 5p-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 Leo’s Live Music & Billiards (A.K.A. Ybor Cigars) 5263 S Florida Ave (863) 619-6799 Happy Hr 4-7p Darts/Pool Table/TVs Tue-Sat, Live Music 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 Lugo’s Craft Distillery 2500 Drane Field Rd, Suite 208 (863) 816-3330 Lounge Hrs: Thu & Fri, 5p-12a Sat, 3p-12a & Sun, 12-6p Craft Rums/Distillery Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub 111 S Kentucky Ave (863) 686-6231 Darts, Pool Tables Live Music, Fri Paddy Wagon Irish Pub 4204 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8925 Daily, 12p Full Bar, TVs Darts, Golden Tee, Pool

The Pink Piano 1015 S Florida Ave (863) 937-8885 Tue-Sat, Live Music Wine, Beer, Tapas Oct 14, Comedy Carnival Rec Room 202 N Massachusetts Ave (863) 213-4073 Open 4p Mon-Fri, 11a Sat & Sun Open Late Night Daily Specials, 50+ Games Wed, Ladies Night Food Trucks Fri & Sat 8p Family During Day/21+ after 9p 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 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

LAKE WALES 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

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All Star Grill 2019 Hwy 60 E (863) 679-9689 Sports Bar Open Daily 11a-11p Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 19598 US Hwy 27 (863) 679-1975 Full Liquor Sports Bar Big Screen TVs 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 Oct 28, Halloween Prty 6-10p 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 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 4:30-5:30p Full Menu/Full Bar Smoke-Free Barrel239 239 3rd St SW (863) 229-7740 Whiskey Bar Open Daily Drink Specials 1-4p Smoke-Free Beef ‘O’ Brady’s 300 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 293-9464 Full Liquor Sports Pub 30 Big HD TVs Mon Burger Special

BARS&PUBS

Central Tavern 273 W Central Ave (863) 229-5027 Open Daily 12p Full Bar/Smoke-Free Outside Patio

Duke’s Brewhouse 1708 6th Street SE (863) 576-9464 Wings, Sports, Spirits Live Music Fire Restaurant 325 W Central Ave (863) 875-5544 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 3rd Wed, Night Mrkt 6-9p Craft Beer & Wine Smoke-Free Oct 14, Fall Fest 5-9p Oct 28, 6-11p 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, No Name Jam Night Live Music Weekly Smoke-Free Oct 13, Halloween Prty Laugh Out Lounge 19 3rd Street NW Wed, Thu, Sun 5-10p Fri & Sat 5-11p Comedy Club/Bar Beer/Wine FB@LaughOutLoungeWH Obscure Wine Company 276 W Central Ave (863) 268-6555 Mon-Thu 11a-10p Fri-Sat 11a-12a, Sun 11a-8p Mon, Oyster Mon 4-7p Tue, Tasting Tuesday Wed, Wine Down Wed 5-8p Last Sun, Imbibe & Vibes 3-7p

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 Oct 27 & 28, Halloween Prty (Costume Contest Sat only) 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 Sun-Thu, 12p-12a Fri, 12p-2a/Sat, 2p-2a Mon, Martinis $6 Wed-Sat, Live Music Speakeasy-style Lounge Classic/Craft Cocktails Somewhere Sports Bar 5688 Cypress Gardens Blvd (863) 324-7524 Mon-Sat, Hpy Hr 3-6p Beer Specials/Sports Packages Mon-Fri, Lunch Specials Tanner’s Lakeside 1006 S Lake Howard Dr (863) 662-5948 Happy Hr Wed-Sun, 4-6p Wed, 1/2 Price Wines Thu-Sun, Live Music Oct 14, Pumpkinpalooza 4-8p Oct 28, Halloween Prty Nov 25, Friendsgiving 12-6p Union Taproom 245 W Central Ave, ST 102 (863) 268-4921 Hrs: Tue-Thu 4-10p, Fri & Sat 12-11p, Sun 12-7p 40 Self Pour Taps Pizza: Tue-Thu 4-cl/Fri-Sun 12-cl Wed, Trivia 7p Fri & Sat, Live Music 7-10p 1st Thu, Night Market 6-9p

OCTOBER 2023 53

54 OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 55

SUNDAY, OCT 22

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER CONCERT CALENDAR WEDNESDAY, OCT 4 RANDY SULLENS (Cherry Pocket, LW)

THURSDAY, OCT 5 ROD STEWART TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC) DON BURNS (Cherry Pocket, LW) JIM THOMAS (Swan Brewing, LKD) RUSTY & LAURIE WRIGHT (Hard Rock Cafe, TMP) LUKE BRYAN wsg CHAYCE BECKHAM, ASHLEY COOKE, JON LANGSTON & DJ ROCK (Amway Center, ORL)

FRIDAY, OCT 6

RUNA (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) CURT BEASLEY 1p/ TIM HAMLIN 6p (Cherry Pocket, LW) CELTIC CONUNDRUM (Swan Brewing, LKD) B. HAVEN BAND (Meals on Wheels/Nora Mayo Hall) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) JOSH CURCHY (Yard on Mass, LKD) CHRISTIAN NODAL (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, OCT 7 B. HAVEN BAND (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) JIM N JUDY DUO (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BLOODY JUG BAND (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) GERI BLOUNT 1p/ RAY NICHOLS (Cherry Pocket, LW) LIVE HART 2p/ SHAWN RAHN 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) BIG TIME JUKEBOX (Yard on Mass, LKD) KIRK FRANKLIN (Amalie Arena, TMP) OUTLAW MUSIC FEST: WILLIE NELSON, THE AVETT BROTHERS, GOV’T MULE, ELIZABETH COOK, PARTOCLE KID (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, OCT 8 JIM & JUDY DUO (Tanners Lakeside, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (Grove Roots Brew Co, WH) FOY ELLERBE 12p/ GREG REDDING 5p (Cherry Pocket, LW)

56 OCTOBER 2023

BRIAN JONES (Swan Brewing, LKD) ACOUSTIC DOSE (Council Oak Lounge, TMP)

MONDAY, OCT 9 CURT BEASLEY 4p (Cherry Pocket, LW)

TUESDAY, OCT 10 JOEY KIRKLAND 4p (Cherry Pocket, LW) ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) DEPECHE MODE wsg DIIV (Amway Center, ORL) NOAH KAHAN wsg SAMIA (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

WEDNESDAY, OCT 11 HUNTER MCNEER (Cherry Pocket, LW) AEROSMITH wsg THE BLACK CROWES (Amalie Arena, TMP)

THURSDAY, OCT 12 KENNY ROGERS TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC) JADE & DUKE (The Social Lounge, WH) DON BURNS (Cherry Pocket, LW) TOURIST BOB (Swan Brewing, LKD) JONAS BROTHERS (Amalie Arena, TMP)

FRIDAY, OCT 13

JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) EKTOR KEYS TRIO 5p (Yard on Mass, LKD) EKTOR KEYS 6p (Cypresswood Pub, WH) KYLE SMITH (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA) THE CUNNINGHAM WAKE (Leo’s Live, LKD) TONE SMASHERS wsg THE FILTHY GROOVES AND RIFF BANDITS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) B. HAVEN BAND (Lk Wales Street Party, LW) WILLIAM EARL SMITH BAND (Apple Lounge, WH) THE DETECTIVES (Swan Brewing, LKD) SKIP FRYE (Front Page Brewing, BTW) 99 IN THE SHADE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH)

JONAS BROTHERS wsg LAWERENCE (Amway Center, ORL) JOHN MAYER wsg JP SAXE (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, OCT 14 KEYSOUNDSOUL (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) BIG TIME COUNTRY 2p/ JOEY FOLEY 4p/ CHASIN JASON 7p (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) CHASE DIXON 2p/ SOUTH OF THE BLUES 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUL2EARTH (Tanners Lakeside, WH) SMOKIN’ THE BOSTON; BOSTON, RENEGRADE, STYX TRIB. (Ritz Theatre, WH) CURT BEASLEY (Cherry Pocket, LW) SG WOOD 2p/ RIVALS & VILLAINS 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) EKTOR KEYS (Social Lounge, WH) JELLY ROLL wsgs CHASE RICE, STRUGGLE JENNINGS, JOSH ADAM MEYERS (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, OCT 15

KEITH ROBINETTE 2p/ THE WANTED BAND 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) PHOENIX 5 (Tanners Lakeside, WH) RANDY SULLENS 12p/ GERI BLOUNT 5p (Cherry Pocket, LW) JOHN FRINZI (Swan Brewing, LKD) EKTOR KEYS (Yard On Mass, LKD) LUIS MIGUEL (Amalie Arena, TMP) CLAIRE VANDIVER (Council Oak Lounge, TMP)

MONDAY, OCT 16 BLAKE FREE 4p (Cherry Pocket, LW) BLACK SATIN DUO (Council Oak Lounge, TMP) JONAS BROTHERS wsg LAWERENCE (Amway Center, ORL)

TUESDAY, OCT 17 FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS TRIBUTE (RP Funding Center, LKD) BILL COCKRELL; JIMMY BUFFETT TRIB (Theatre Winter Haven, WH)

RAY NICHOLS (Cherry Pocket, LW)

WEDNESDAY, OCT 18 BLAKE FREE (Cherry Pocket, LW) THE 1975 (Amalie Arena, TMP)

THURSDAY, OCT 19 CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: THE POLICE (RP Funding Center, LKD) TMIKE & DUKE (The Social Lounge, WH) SIDE PROJECT DUO (Cherry Pocket, LW) EKTOR KEYS (Swan Brewing, LKD)

FRIDAY, OCT 20

NVR2L8 (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BURT HILL BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) B. HAVEN BAND (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) DAVID BRIMER 1p/ RAY NICHOLS 6p (Cherry Pocket, LW) NOT DEAD YET (Apple Lounge, WH) SIXX L SIXX (Swan Brewing, LKD) SKIP FRYE (Duke’s Brewhouse, WH) JASON BIELER & JEFF SCOTT SOTO (Union Hall, LKD) FREE WHISKEY DUO (Dade City Brew Co, D CTY) TYRESE, MONK, TANK wsgs GINUWINE, 112, SILK, TWEET (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, OCT 21

BIG TIME JUKEBOX (Old Man Frank’s, WH) BIG CHILL BAND (Tanners Lakeside, WH) JADE & DUKE (Wales Pointe, LW) RANDY SULLENS 1p/ RYAN JOYCE 6p (Cherry Pocket, LW) CHASM DEEP 2p/ LOOSHKA 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) SKIP FRYE (Big Cypress Grill, LKD) RECKLESS GIANTS (Union Hall, LKD) GERRY WILLIAMS (Council Oak Lounge, TMP) CAT RIDGEWAY & THE TOURISTS (Celebration’s Oktoberfest, CEL)

RYAN JOYCE 5p/ PHOENIX 5 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ACOUSTIC DOSE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Swan Brewing, LKD) B. HAVEN BAND (Twisted Prop, WH) BLAKE FREE 12p/ BILLY DICKERSON 5p (Cherry Pocket, LW)

MONDAY, OCT 23 KATIE DOWNER (Cherry Pocket, LW)

TUESDAY, OCT 24 ADRIENNE RICHARDS (Jessie’s Lounge, WH) JOEY KIRKLAND (Cherry Pocket, LW)

WEDNESDAY, OCT 25 JADE & DUKE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) FOY ELLERBE (Cherry Pocket, LW)

THURSDAY, OCT 26 RAY NICHOLS (Cherry Pocket, LW) EKTOR KEYS (Cypresswood Pub, WH)

FRIDAY, OCT 27

FRANKIE VALLI TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC) JOSH BLEVINS BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) A BEE GEES TRIB (Ritz Theatre, WH) HUNTER MCNEER 1p/ RANDY SULLENS 6p (Cherry Pocket, LW) BLAKE FREE LIVE (Apple Lounge, WH) BOYDRIVE wsg OLIVIA GRIMES (Union Hall, LKD) JERROD NIEMANN (Dallas Bull, TMP)

SATURDAY, OCT 28 KEYSOUNDSOUL (Yard On Mass, LKD) JOEY FOLEY 2p/ SOUTH OF THE BLUES 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) 99 IN THE SHADE (Tanners Lakeside, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Camp Margaritaville, ADL) SMOKEPOINT (Swan Brewing, LKD) KATIE DOWNER 1P/ EKLECTIK HAZE 6p (Cherry Pocket, LW) LOVE PIT wsgs CATCHER AND THE RYE, BALLISTIC MAFIA, A HUMAN GONE, SPIDER LILY (Leo’s Live, LKD) MANÁ (Amway Center, ORL) MALUMA (Amalie Arena, TMP)

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JASON ALDEAN wsgs MITCHELL TENPENNY, COREY KENT, DEE JAY SILVER (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SUNDAY, OCT 29

JIM N JUDY DUO 2p/ BLUE COLLAR BAND 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SANDY BACK PORCH (Pioneer Days Festival, LW) EKLECTIK HAZE 12p/ GREG REDDING 5p (Cherry Pocket, LW) SKIP FRYE (WH Moose Lodge, WH) CARLOS VIVES (Amway Center, ORL) JOHN LEGEND (Hard Rock Event Cntr, TMP)

MONDAY, OCT 30 MITCH STEWART (Cherry Pocket, LW)

TUESDAY, OCT 31 SIDE PROJECT DUO (Cherry Pocket, LW) KALEIGH BAKER DUO (Council Oak Lounge, TMP)

THURSDAY, NOV 2 THE MAXX (WHH Foundation Gala, WH) CIRCUS MUTT (Swan Brewing, LKD) FRAMING THE RED (LA’s Midway Saloon, LA)

FRIDAY, NOV 3 DERVISH (Bok Tower Gardens, LW) PHOENIX 5 (Old Man Frank’s, WH) THOMAS WYNN & OLIVIA WYNN (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) TMIKE & DUKE (Crave & Copper, ADL) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) MALUMA (Amway Center, ORL) ZAC BROWN BAND wsgs KING CALAWAY, YESTERDAY’S WINE (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

SATURDAY, NOV 4 LATIN ROCK FESTIVAL (Balmoral Bar & Grill, HC) PINK FLOYD TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC) FRAMING THE RED (Roscoe’s Chili Cook-off, LKD) TREY LEWIS (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) FREE WHISKEY DUO (Union Taproom, WH) MANFREDI ROCKS (Port Steak & Seafood, HC) ZAC BROWN BAND wsgs KING CALAWAY, YESTERDAY’S WINE (MidFlorida CU Amphi, TMP)

PHOENIX 5 SUNDAY, NOV 5 JOEY FOLEY (Old Man Frank’s, WH) B. HAVEN BAND (Twisted Prop, WH) SUICIDEBOYS wsg GHOSTEMANE, CITY MORGUE & RAMIREZ (Amalie Arena, TMP)

WEDNESDAY, NOV 8 JOJI wsg KENNY BEATS, SAVAGEREALM & LIL TOE (Amway Center, ORL)

THURSDAY, NOV 9 ANDY SHREEVE (Swan Brewing, LKD) ENRIQUE IGLESIAS, PITBULL & RICKY MARTIN (Amway Center, ORL) JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN (Hard Rock Event Cntr, TMP)

FRIDAY, NOV 10

TWH BIG BAND (Symphony Guild/Theatre WH) B. HAVEN BAND (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) EDC ORLANDO (Camping World Stadium, ORL)

SATURDAY, NOV 11 LEE BRICE wsg RANDY HOUSER (Bartow Ford, BTW) RAYNE MARIE 2p/ SOUTH OF THE BLUES 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Camp Margaritaville, ADL) SG WOOD 2p/ BLACKBIRD ANTHEM 7p (Swan Brewing, LKD) EKTOR KEYS (Social Lounge, WH) PROPER WEDNESDAY (Union Hall, LKD)

EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!

EDC ORLANDO (Camping World Stadium, ORL) CHRIS STAPLETON, IMAGINE DRAGONS, H.E.R. (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SUNDAY, NOV 12

THE WANTED BAND (Old Man Frank’s, WH) NU BREED & JESSE HOWARD (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) EDC ORLANDO (Camping World Stadium, ORL)

TUESDAY, NOV 14 ROMEO SANTOS (Amway Center, ORL)

WEDNESDAY, NOV 15 ROMEO SANTOS (Amalie Arena, TMP) TECH N9NE & HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD (Hard Rock Event Cntr, TMP)

THURSDAY, NOV 16 BEE GEES TRIB (Balmoral Event Center, HC)

FRIDAY, NOV 17

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) ALMOST THERE (Somewhere Sports Bar, WH) BILLY DICKERSON (Swan Brewing, LKD)

SATURDAY, NOV 18 JOEY FOLEY 2p/ BIG TIME JUKEBOX 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) MANFREDI ROCKS (Port Steak & Seafood, HC) PINK wsgs GROUPLOVE AND KIDCUTUP (Amway Center, ORL)

SUNDAY, NOV 19 JIM N JUDY DUO (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

DEMUN JONES (Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) BILLY DICKERSON (Grove Roots Brew Co, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Ducky’s Dockside, HC)

TUESDAY, NOV 21 BABYFACE (Hard Rock Event Cntr, TMP)

THE WOOD BROTHERS wsgs MOLLY TUTTLE & GOLDEN HIGHWAY, HARPER O’NEILL

(Orange Blossom Revue, LW) TRACY LAWRENCE (Dallas Bull, TMP)

SATURDAY, DEC 2 WEDNESDAY, NOV 22 PROPER WEDNESDAY (Swan Brewing, LKD)

THURSDAY, NOV 23

RAYNE MARIE 2p/ JOSH BLEVINS BAND 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) SOUL2EARTH

(Tanners Lakeside, WH)

THANKSGIVING

EASTON CORBIN

FRIDAY, NOV 24

JJ GREY & MOFRO

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) DAMON FOWLER & DAN SIGNOR (Jensen’s Corner Bar, WH) DOJA CAT wsg DOECHII (Amalie Arena, TMP)

SATURDAY, NOV 25 RAYNE MARIE 2p/ NVR2L8 7p (Old Man Frank’s, WH) PHOENIX 5 (Tanners Lakeside, WH) MYKE TOWERS (Amway Center, ORL)

SUNDAY, NOV 26

(Wild Greg’s Saloon, LKD) wsgs BRENT COBB, MIKE & THE MOONPIES, KAITLIN BUTTS, CAT RIDGEWAY

(Orange Blossom Revue, LW) ANDY SHREEVE

(Camp Margaritaville, ADL) 33 YEARS

(Swan Brewing, LKD)

SUNDAY, DEC 3 JIM N JUDY DUO

(Old Man Frank’s, WH)

TUESDAY, DEC 5 KEYSOUNDSOUL

KEITH ROBINETTE 2p/ PHOENIX 5 6p (Old Man Frank’s, WH)

(Santa Paws/Jensen’s Bar, WH)

FRIDAY, DEC 1

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.

LAURA THE SINGER (The Social Lounge, WH) ANDY SHREEVE (Union Taproom, WH)

FREE WHISKEY DUO (Barrel239, WH)

OCTOBER 2023 57

58 OCTOBER 2023

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EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!

OCTOBER 2023 59

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

60 OCTOBER 2023

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

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 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 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

CRAZY FISH

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

JAY BEES RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

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.

WINTER HAVEN

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR

LAKE WALES

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

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

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S SOUTH LAKELAND

MISTER FISH

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

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

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

(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

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LUCA

1. Name the artist who had an ice cream flavor named after him.

2. Why was the “In the Navy” video filmed on a U.S. Navy ship?

3. Who released “Message in a Bottle”?

4. Name the Leo Sayer song that is based on his long conversation in a phone booth.

5. Name the soundtrack song that contains this lyric: “First there are kisses, Then there are sighs, And then, before you know where you are, You’re sayin’ goodbye.”

Meet Luca! This sweetheart is our 2 year old Goldendoodle, hound mix.

Luca is a very outgoing boy who enjoys making friends with people of all ages. He also likes dogs of any size and cats. He is full of energy and loves to play with toys or run around. Luca is crate trained and has done well with his house training.

2. The Village People were

ANSWERS 1. Ben & Jerry’s named one of their flavors Cherry Garcia after Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead in 1987.

asked by the Navy for permission to use the song in a recruiting video. The answer was yes, as long as the group was included in the video.

3. The Police, in 1979.

4. “Orchard Road,” in 1983.

Sayer was on the phone asking his wife’s forgiveness for a mistake he’d made. The song was recorded in one raw take.

5. “The Crying Game,” by Boy George in the 1992 film of the same name. The film, about the Troubles in Northern Ireland, took not only a BAFTA for Best British Film but Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director and more.

• You can use self-stick notes to organize your errands. Use a note for each location, with instructions or shopping lists on each. Then put the notes in order: e.g., drop kids off at Grandma’s, shoe store, hardware store, grocery store, home, etc. You will be less likely to forget a stop, and you can make the best use of your time and gas!

• Two tips for sewing buttons: First, for pants buttons, use unwaxed dental floss. It’s incredibly strong and can take a lot of abuse.

Second, slip a pin between the button and the fabric before sewing on. When you’re finished, remove the pin. The button has some room behind it, and it will last longer.

• “This is a tip for us singletons.

I love whipped topping on my hot chocolate, but it doesn’t always last in my fridge. I buy a tub of it, and spoon it into mug-size dollops on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper.

When the sheet is full, I freeze them.

They can be peeled off easily and slipped in a container or plastic bag.

When I make my hot chocolate, I plop one in straight from the freezer. It takes only minutes to soften and melt. And it’s delicious!” -- F.D. in Michigan • “If you cut the entire top and one of the top corners off a cereal box, then tape the bottom closed, it’s almost the same as the magazine holders they sell in stores. I covered mine with fancy paper. I keep it in my kitchen for cooking magazines.”

-- R.R. in Indiana • Gifts a school-age kid can make: Bookmarks! Cut strips of cardstock into bookmark lengths.

Have your child decorate one side and write a nice message on the other. Laminate if possible. Great gift from your child.

EXPECT MORE... GET MORE... WE DELIVER!

TORAH

Meet Torah, a 2 year old, female, Bully mix. Torah loves to play! Her favorite toys have squeakers in them but, if you give her a stuffed animal she will shred it in record time! 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 as she likes to cool off in them and take her toys for a swim too!

PETER

Peter is a grey and white male Domestic Medium Hair mix. He is approximately 5 months old and has been neutered. Peter gets along well with adults and children of all ages. He is a very playful boy who enjoys playing with all kinds of different toys. Peter has had positive experiences with other kittens.

SAMANTHA

Meet Samantha! This sweetheart is our 1 1/2 yr old black and brown tabby. She is good with adults but has not been around any kids so we don't know how she will do so bring them in to meet her if you come to visit. She has been around other cats and does well with them. Samantha is described as an energetic baby who loves to play with her toys, especially her mouse toy.

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. Vargas received her DVM from Tuskegee University in 1994. In 1996, she established her AAHA accredited Orchid Springs Animal Hospital in Winter Haven, FL. In 2009, she began her studies at Chi Institute, eventually garnering certifications in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Food therapy and Tui Na. She is also a fellow of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupunture. Dr. Vargas is pursuing her Master’s Degree in TCVM at Chi Institute, where she works as a Teacher Assistant and as a Lecturer for the Chi Latin America. She has also worked as a consultant for Disney Animal Kingdom.

Dr. Vargas is also a Certified Veterinary Journalist and a prolific author of both scientific and motivational articles. Dr. Vargas has lectured at the World TCVM Congress (2015, 2016, 2017), AAVA Conference (2017), AVMA (2011), and the CbVMA (2017). She is a guest blogger for www. allthingshealing.com and a writer for Woman to Woman magazine and the Lakeland Ledger newspaper. Last year she contributed a chapter for Jack Canfield’s Amazon Best seller book “The Soul of Success”. She served as an AVMA Spokesperson for Hispanic market and has recorded many PSA’s and radio interviews promoting responsible

pet ownership.

Her love for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine manifested in her book: Alt-Vet: The Revolutionary Pet Care and Longevity Solution.

Her passion for helping animals and her voluntarism has awarded her state and national recognition including the Purina National Pet Care Award, Bay News 9 Medical Hero Award, and The FVMA Gold Award. She was honored by the American Veterinary Foundation as “America’s Favorite Veterinarian” in 2015.

She lives in sunny Winter Haven, Florida, with her husband, two daughters and a menagerie of pets.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Dr. Vargas loves the community of Winter Haven and she is involved in a number of local organizations, including: Ridge Veterinary Medical Society where she was the 2008-2009 president Junior League of Greater Winter Haven Board Humane Society of Polk County Board Women’s Resource Center and Girls, Inc.

Dr. Vargas

OCTOBER 2023 61

8TH ANNUAL

the

Cassidy

Supporting the Winter Haven Women’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Winter Haven Hospital Patients

All proceeds from the 2023 events will go to support the Winter Haven Women’s Hospital and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

A Golf and Tennis Event at Country Club of Winter Haven

THANK YOU SPONSORS AND TEAMS Presented by:

Legacy Sponsor:

The

Family

Fore the Love Sponsors:

Mike & Janine Mahalak | JM&A Group

Online Auction & Raffle Drawing

Thursday, October 12 - Saturday, October 21

Golf & Women’s Tennis Tournament Saturday, October 21 | 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

For more information about future events, visit www.for www.foree thelove.org or call 863-297-1781

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