COQUITO 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut cream 2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk 1 (14-ounce) can condensed milk 2 tablespoons of vanilla 1 1/2 cups white rum (Don Q is my go-to) cinnamon sticks (garnish) 1. Mix all ingredients (not garnish) in a blender or stir in a pitcher, and let sit in the fridge for a day. If you save it in a jar, just shake it up a few times to let the flavors blend. Store in the refrigerator. 2. When serving, garnish with a cinnamon stick or sprinkle of ground cinnamon. NOTE: This is a STRONG drink. It is meant to be a sipping drink. Serving Size is 6 oz. Submitted by Maricarmen Chavez. “Coquito, a beloved traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink, is known for its creamy texture and rich cinnamon flavor. I grew up in an area with lots of Puerto Ricans, and this is a holiday staple in my life. It is the perfect holiday drink, and this recipe makes more than enough to share - or you can hoard it like I do.” KAHLUA 2 quarts water 1 1/2 cups instant coffee 7 cups sugar 16 ounces Everclear grain alcohol 2 vanilla beans 1. Bring water to boil, add coffee. 2. Turn the stove off and add sugar; mix until dissolved. 3. Add Everclear and mix well. 4. Pour mixture into a gallon jug and add vanilla beans. Cap and store in a dark place for 30 days. Shake gently every day. Billie’s White Russian recipe: 2 shots Kahlua 1 shot Coconut Rum Pour into a highball glass & top off with half and half. Cheers! Recipe submitted by Billie Porche from Image Creations by Billie

SPICY ITALIAN SAUSAGE STUFFING 8 cups (400 grams) store-bought seasoned stuffing bread cubes 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter 1 1/2 cups yellow onion (from 1 large onion) ,diced 1 cup celery (from 3 celery stalks) ,diced 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 pound bulk medium spicy Italian sausage (i.e., sausage with the casings removed) 2 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 large egg, beaten 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter. 2. In a large mixing bowl, place the bread cubes. 3. In a large sauté pan, melt the butter. Add the onions and celery and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about eight minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. Add the garlic and cook for two minutes more. 4. Add the vegetables to the bread cubes. Don’t wash the pan, but scrape out every last bit of vegetables, otherwise they will burn in the next step. 5. In the same pan, cook the sausage over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until browned and cooked through, breaking up the sausage with a metal spatula while cooking. The largest pieces should be no greater than a quarter of an inch. Add the browned sausage and fat to the bread cubes and vegetables. 6. Add the chicken broth, egg, rosemary, sage, parsley, salt and pepper to the bread cube mixture and mix until the bread is soft and moistened. Transfer the stuffing to the prepared baking dish and bake for 65-75 minutes, uncovered, until deeply golden and crisp on top. Submitted by Adriana Eraso from COhatch Lakeland. “I want to dedicate this recipe to my aunt Mimi, who cooked this EVERY Thanksgiving, and when she passed, I took over the tradition.” DOC’S CORNBREAD 3 (8.5-ounce) boxes corn muffin mix 1 (14.75-ounce) can cream style corn 2 eggs 8 ounces sour cream 1 tablespoon sugar 1 stick butter (salted) 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. In a large mixing bowl, mix the first five ingredients well. 3. Melt butter in a 13-by-9-inch baking dish. 4. Pour corn bread mixture on top of melted butter. 5. Bake 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown. ENJOY! This is an Orange Blossom Poems original recipe by Dr. Diana Álvarez-Hughes. “Dedicated to my husband, Jeremy, one of them corn fed boys.” WINTER FLU NATURAL SYRUP 1-3 heads of garlic (organic if possible) Raw honey, enough to cover garlic* 1. Peel the garlic and place cloves in a glass jar. Cover them fully with honey, but be sure to leave a one-inch space at the top of the jar. Put the lid on loosely, as this will ferment. 2. Put the jar in a dark area at room temperature. Fermentation will normally take 2-4 weeks, but as with any home remedy, the longer it ferments, the better it gets. 3. Each day during the first 2-4 weeks, take the jar out and swish everything around to get the cloves covered, as they will float to the top. Open the lid to release the gas and then put it back on. When you start feeling the flu, take a spoonful of the honey (always include one clove) and eat or put it in your tea. This remedy isn’t something that you have to do with just feeling sick, these two ingredients boost your immune system, so it is good to have at any time. I will use a tablespoon to spread on chicken before baking, or on ham or pork when making pulled pork. You can add it to just about anything, as it gives your dish a sweet twist. The longer it sits, the better! *I use Natural Nate’s 100% Pure Florida Raw & Unfiltered Honey. Submitted by Rebecca MacPherson POTATO PANCAKES 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs 1/2 cup of your favorite cheese 1/3 cup green onion, chopped 1/3 cup bacon, chopped (bacon bits) 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper neutral-flavored oil (peanut, canola, grapeseed, etc.) Sour cream (optional) 1. Mix potatoes with eggs, breadcrumbs, cheese, bacon, green onions, salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. 2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast iron or other heavy skillet over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cup batter for each pancake into the oil. Fry in batches until golden brown on both sides. Submitted by Aaron Venrick from Destroyer Media. “This recipe was shared with me by an old friend who said that the secret was using left over mashed potatoes from the night before.”

SAUSAGE HASH BROWN BREAKFAST CASSEROLE 2 pounds hot breakfast sausage 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 8 eggs 2 cups milk 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray a 9-by-13-inch pan with cooking spray. 2. In a large skillet, cook sausage until no longer pink. Drain fat and set sausage aside. 3. Add hash browns to the skillet and cook until lightly browned. (Add a little oil to the skillet if necessary.) Place hash browns in the bottom of a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch pan. Top with sausage and cheese. 4. Whisk together eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and milk. Pour over the hash brown mixture. 5. Cover and refrigerate at this point if baking later. 6. Bake, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes. Recipe submitted by Brianna Price from the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce and has dedicated this to her mother-in-law, Cindy Price. “My mother-in-law always made this breakfast casserole for us on the weekends. It was so delicious that we started cooking it on Thanksgiving morning, and now it’s become a family tradition. She passed away after a 19-year battle with cancer in May of this year. She was such a master in the kitchen.” FESTIVE CHICKEN SALAD 1 pound shredded rotisserie chicken 2 carrots, grated 1(10-or 12-ounce bag) frozen sweet peas 1 cup dried cranberries 4 tablespoons green onions, chopped 1 cup mayonnaise 2 cups shoestring potato sticks salt and pepper 1. In a large mixing bowl, mix all of the ingredients except the potato sticks. 2. When ready to serve, add potato sticks. (You want them to stay crunchy.) Submitted by Maria Franco from Maria Petit Food Boutique. IRENE’S HUNKY CABBAGE ROLLS Makes 50 – 80 5 pounds ground beef 3 pounds ground pork garlic powder 6 medium heads cabbage 2 pounds uncooked white rice 2 extra-large onions, sliced 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes 4 smoked ham hocks (a must) 2 (32-ounce) cans sauerkraut, drained bay leaves, optional salt & pepper 1. In a large pot, boil water. Cut the core from each cabbage and drop into boiling water for a short time until the leaves pull apart. Take out of water. Trim away the hard part of each leaf, keep trimmings. 2. Combine beef, pork, rice, garlic powder to taste, salt, and pepper. Form into oval-shaped logs and put on a cabbage leaf. Roll leaf around meat and tuck in the ends with your finger. 3. In a large roaster, arrange half of the sauerkraut on the bottom. Next, add half of the chopped cabbage scraps and onions. Arrange ham hocks on the next layer. Place all of the cabbage rolls on the next layer, followed by the remaining sauerkraut and onions. Pour over the diced and crushed tomatoes. Cover with water. 4. Cook in roaster at 500 F until boiling. Reduce heat to 250 F and cook for 2-3 hours. Submitted by Chris Sexson. “Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, my grandma Irene would make these every holiday, family gathering, and celebration. They were a tradition. No matter the occasion, 4th of July at Miller’s Grove or Christmas at her home, cabbage rolls were always there. This is a very large recipe because she made sure that everyone would have enough to eat. Best Grandma ever. Smacznego!” GRANNY’S CHICKEN-N-DUMPLINS 1 whole chicken 1 small bag self-rising flour 2 eggs boiling water extra flour for rolling out dumplins salt & pepper 1. In a large pot, boil a whole chicken. You could add carrot, celery, or onion or just make plain old broth. If you add any salt, be very conservative with it because the self-rising flour in the dumplins is pretty salty. When the chicken is cooked through, remove from pot and cool. 2. Shred meat and set aside. Sometimes I just shred the dark meat and save the breast for chicken salad--It just depends on how much chicken you like in it. If you added veggies to the broth, fish them out. Keep the broth warm while you make the dumplins. It should be boiling when you add them. 3. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the whole bag of flour. Beat two eggs and mix into flour. Then comes the hard part, with a sturdy wooden spoon, stir the flour vigorously while adding boiling water till you get a fluffy workable dough. 4. Turn the dough out onto the counter and knead a couple of times just to make sure all the flour is incorporated evenly. Dust the counter with flour and roll out the dough to a little over 1/4” thick. My mom always says to dust the top of the dough with a little flour too because it’ll help thicken the broth. With a dinner knife, cut 1-1.5” wide strips. As you add the strips into the boiling broth, tear them into smaller segments 3-4” long. Do this with all of the dough and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper. Submitted by Blair Updike. “Once you make these, you’ll wonder what all the fuss is about because they’re pretty easy. Minimal ingredients and minimal skill required.” CURRY CHICKPEA SALAD DRESSING: 1/4 cup mayo (or vegan mayo for a fully vegan recipe) 1/2 small lemon, juice 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon turmeric pinch of black pepper 1 clove garlic, grated or finely chopped salt to taste SALAD: 1 (15.5-ounce) can chickpeas (or 1/12 cups cooked chickpeas), drained and rinsed 1/3 cup celery, finely diced 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced 2 tablespoons herb of choice, chopped (I love dill, but cilantro and parsley also work well) 1. In a small bowl, mix all dressing ingredients together. 2. Rub the chickpeas between paper towels to remove as much skin as possible. Or be a psychopath like me and shell each one individually because it really does taste better without the skins. 3. In a large bowl, partially mash the chickpeas, leaving some whole for texture. 4. Add celery, red onion and herbs. Add the dressing and mix to combine. Enjoy with your favorite carb, I like naan, but you can also use pita chips, pretzels, crackers, etc. You can also serve on a lettuce leaf or croissant. Or just dive in with a spoon! Submitted by Lyndsey Venrick. GRANDMA DONNA’S PASTIES Makes 4 pasties CRUST: 3 cups flour 1 cup shortening 1 teaspoon salt enough ice water to form crust (very important) FILLING: (cut all rather fine) 1 pound round steak (raw) 1/2 pound pork steak (lean, raw) 4 large potatoes, shredded (raw) 1 small yellow onion, shredded butter 1/2 cup rutabaga, shredded (optional) 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. 2. In a mixing bowl, mix the flour, shortening and salt. Add enough ice water (don’t add the ice) until the dough comes together. Separate dough into four sections. 3. On a floured surface, roll each section of dough into a circle. 4. Put 1/4 of the filling on one side of each circle, adding a pad of butter. Fold dough over to make a half-moon and crimp edges. 5. Place pasties on a nonstick sheet pan and bake at 425 F for 15 minutes, and then at 375 F for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Submitted by Christine Campbell. “My Grandma Donna would make this meal for me on my birthday! Great with a dill pickle & cole slaw” PIEROGI FILLING: 3 pounds onions 5 pounds potatoes DOUGH: 3 cups flour 2 eggs 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder water, as needed 1. Slice onions and caramelize. Peel and boil potatoes until tender, then drain, mash, and set aside. 2. Mix the dough ingredients, add water as needed to make a firm dough. 3. On a floured surface, roll out dough until it’s a little thicker than pie crust. Cut dough into small squares about 3-3 1/2 inches. 4. Take each square and roll it out as thin as you can. 5. Put some potatoes and onions in center of each rolled square. Brush water around end of each square and fold over. Use fork to seal around edges, careful not to puncture dough. 6. Place in boiling water for 15 minutes. 7. When ready to eat, brown them in butter and top with caramelized onions. Submitted by Dolly Doyle, this is her dad’s recipe. WHITE CHICKEN CHILI 2 pounds chicken breast, diced salt/pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 yellow onion, diced small 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 bottle of IPA beer 1 lime 2 ears of fresh corn, kernels cut off 3 (16-ounce) cans Bush’s white chili beans or great northern beans 1 tablespoon cumin 2 tablespoons salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 quart chicken broth 1 bunch fresh cilantro, rough chopped 3 limes, cut into wedges Favorite cheese, shredded Tortilla chips 1. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. In a pan, add olive oil, then add chicken. Sear on both sides until golden brown, remove from pan and set aside. 2. Add onions, cook until tender, then add garlic and browned chicken. Cook for 5 minutes then de-glaze pan with 1/2 of the beer. Reduce beer by half. 3. Add corn kernels, beans, and chicken broth, and cook until chicken is completely cooked through and flavors have infused. 4. Serve topped with cilantro, lime wedges, cheese, and tortilla chips. (Blue corn chips are my favorite.) * Pro tip: add fresh jalapenos, sour cream, and your favorite hot sauce as a garnish, too. Submitted by Kaelani from Lakeland. “As the head chef at Good Thyme and mother of three, I have my hands full in and out of the kitchen! This recipe is perfect because not only is it easy, but it is absolutely delicious. My children love it and trust me; they are some foodies! For any mom out there who wants something quick and hearty to serve their family, try making this White Chicken Chili! It’s a family favorite, but it is a close tie with my dad’s classic beef chili recipe ;)” TERRI’S TURKEY SOUP 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey 4 ribs celery, sliced 1 tablespoon olive oil 4 cups water 4 carrots, sliced 1/4 cup uncooked rice 1 small bay leaf 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1/2 teaspoon sweet basil 2-4 teaspoons chili powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon dill weed hot sauce to taste 2 medium potatoes, sliced 1 teaspoon salt, to taste 1/4 teaspoon pepper 3 1/2 cups tomato juice 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans 1 (15-ounce) package of peas 1. In a large pot, brown turkey and celery in olive oil. 2. Add water, carrots, rice, bay leaf, thyme, basil, chili powder, onion powder, dill, hot sauce, potatoes, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and simmer until vegetables are tender. 3. Add remaining ingredients and heat through. Remove bay leaf and serve hot. Submitted by Stephanie Selz and dedicated to her mom, Terri Selz. CHICKEN SALAD 2 (10-ounce) cans white chicken, drained 2 ribs celery, finely chopped 2 hard-cooked eggs, finely chopped 1 cup pineapple tidbits 1 cup grapes, quartered 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 cup mayonnaise pepper to taste Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Chill covered, for at least 2 hours. Serve with crackers, celery sticks or carrot sticks, or with mini croissants for party sandwiches. Submitted by Dori Shackelford, Lakeland.

OATCAKES Makes 12 yummy oatcakes 3 cups (300 grams) rolled oats 2 cups (225 grams) spelt flour or whole wheat pastry flour (I used All-Purpose Flour) 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 4 teaspoons salt 1/4 cup (45 grams) flax seeds 3/4 cup (85 grams) walnuts, chopped 1/3cup (70 grams) extra virgin coconut oil 1/3 cup (85 grams) unsalted butter 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) maple syrup 1/2 cup (70 grams) natural cane sugar 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 1. Preheat oven to 325 F. Spray or oil a 12-cup muffin pan. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking powder, salt, flax seeds and walnuts. 3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the coconut oil, butter, maple syrup and sugar. Stir just until the butter melts and the sugar has dissolved, but do not let the mixture get too hot. You don’t want to cook the eggs on contact in the next step. 4. Pour the coconut oil mixture over the oat mixture. Stir a bit with a fork, add the eggs and stir again until everything comes together into a wet dough. Spoon the dough into the muffin cups, nearly filling them. 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges of each oatcake are deeply golden. Remove the pan from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before transferring cakes to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Submitted by Vic King from Strong Sites. “These oatcakes are a staple in our household of five. They’re dense and delicious … and they’re not half bad for you!” LUCIOUS LEMON CHIFFON PIE 16 ounces Camellia Groves Lemon Curd 2 8-ounce packages of cream cheese 1 9-inch pie crust (graham or regular) 1 quart container Cool Whip 1. Soften cream cheese and with an immersion blender (or by hand), then blend cheese and lemon curd together until smooth. 2. Pour into room temperature pie crust and top with Cool Whip. Refrigerate 4 hours. Submitted by Martha Burke, Camellia Groves, Winter Haven. “This takes 10 minutes!! So easy, anyone can make this and be proud. Order your lemon curd by Thursday and pick it up on a Sunday at noon. Curd can be frozen to save for later.” camelliagroves.com ARROZ CON LECHE COLOMBIANO 2 cups white jasmine rice 3 cups water 1 (14-ounce) can condensed milk 5 cups whole milk 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional) 1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water is on the clearer side, only slightly cloudy. Add the rinsed rice to a Dutch oven with water and cook on low heat. 2. Once the water has evaporated, the rice will be partially cooked. Add the whole, condensed, and evaporated milk to the cooked rice. Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract, stir, and cover. Cook for 30 minutes on low heat. 3. After 30 minutes, remove the cover and stir well. Increase the heat slightly to get the milk to come to a quick boil, stir, and turn the heat off. (Note: don’t worry if the milk still seems a little runny at first – the rice will keep absorbing it and thicken everything up even after it’s off the heat.) 4. To serve, pour the rice pudding into a bowl or small mug. Sprinkle cinnamon on top and enjoy the creamy goodness (warm or cold)! Tips: Cook on low heat to prevent the rice from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot. It’s important to keep an eye on it and give it a stir using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. The sugar in the milk, especially the condensed milk, can crystallize and burn much quicker, so it’s best to be cautious. By stirring it regularly, you’ll get a delicious and creamy dessert without any burnt bits. I prefer to use a silicone spatula to stir the mixture; it helps to remove any pieces that have started sticking to the bottom. Add raisins in step 3 if desired. Recipe by Carolina Suarez from The Blind Shack of Central Florida. “This creamy Colombian arroz con leche (rice pudding) is one of my favorite desserts to make. I love the way the rice, milk, and sugar come together—it’s so simple but so good. It’s perfect warm or chilled, and I always make it when I want to share something special with my family.” DATE BREAD 1/2 pound dates, pits removed 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 cup boiling water poured over dates and allowed to cool 1 egg yolk 3/4 cup sugar 1 3/4 cups flour 1/2 cup walnut meats, chopped 1 egg white, beaten stiff Mix together and bake in a slow oven – about one hour. Submitted by Jane McGinnis. “I am sharing a recipe from my mother’s cookbook. I loved it every Christmas when Mom would bake this delicious bread. She noted the recipe ‘Date Bread 6-18-33 Mary Perry.’ Mary Perry owned the Cottage House Inn in Readsboro, VT for more than forty years. In the early 1920s, after my mother graduated from Bliss Business College, she accepted a position as secretary to A. B. Clark, President of the Readsboro Chair Company, and boarded at Mrs. Perry’s inn. Mary Perry passed away in 1971 and was Readsboro’s oldest resident at ninetyone. Coincidentally, Mrs. Perry was also the great-grandmother of the late actor Matthew Perry.” IMPERIAL BROWNIES 4 squares Baker’s Unsweetened Chocolate 2 sticks Imperial Margarine 2 cups sugar 1/2 cup milk 4 eggs 1 cup flour 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt 1. Melt chocolate and margarine together in a 200 F oven. Let cool slightly. 2. Hand stir ingredients in this order: sugar, milk, eggs, flour, vanilla, and finally the salt. 3. Bake in a greased pan for 45 minutes at 350 F, until your toothpick comes out clean. 4. When cool, dust with powdered sugar and add seasonal sprinkles. Submitted by Susan Mayrant. “These rival Mrs. Field’s brownies and I have made them since I was a kid. You don’t even need a mixer as I just mix together with a fork!” STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE TORTE 1 cup milk 1/4 cup butter 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 eggs 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 3 teaspoons baking powder teaspoon salt Cream Cheese Filling (recipe below) 1 pint cleaned, fresh strawberries, sliced 1. In a small saucepan, bring milk to a boil. Add butter. Set aside. 2. In a large bowl, blend sugar, vanilla and eggs. Beat at high speed for 3 minutes until thick and lemon colored. 3. Add flour, baking powder and salt. Beat 1 minute at low speed. Add milk-butter mixture. Beat 1 minute more at low speed. 4. Pour into well-buttered and floured 10-inch springform pan.* Bake at 350 F for 55 to 65 minutes or until a tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool thoroughly. Remove from pan. 5. Split cooled cake into 3 layers. Fill between layers with about 3/4 cup filling, placing sliced strawberries on top of filling before stacking cake. 6. Frost stacked cake with Cream Cheese Filling. Press about 1 cup through pastry bag to decorate top. Garnish with more berries. Chill until ready to serve. CREAM CHEESE FILLING: Whip 1 pound (2 8-ounce packages) room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Beat in 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 pint whipping cream until mixture is very light and fluffy. TIP: Cake can be made several hours before serving or the day before, but should be covered and refrigerated so it will not absorb odors from other foods. *Submitted by Carolee Cheney. “This is a favorite of many! I use 2 round cake pans rather than a springform pan, slicing each cake in two making a 4-layered cake instead of 3. The cake weighs a ton, but a slice is light as a feather.” SOFT CANNOLI COOKIES 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups all-purpose flour 10 ounces chocolate chips powdered sugar (for the drizzle on top) cocoa powder (for the drizzle on top) ground cinnamon (for the drizzle on top) 1. In a bowl, mix butter and sugar until fluffy. 2. Add eggs and ricotta and mix until well combined. Next, mix in vanilla, cinnamon and orange zest. 3. Mix in flour baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add chocolate chips. Refrigerate dough for about 30 minutes. 4. Preheat oven to 350 F. 5. On a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, use a small cookie scoop and drop the cookie dough, leaving some space between cookies. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. 6. After they cool, mix together cocoa powder, cinnamon and powdered sugar, and slowly add a little bit of water until it’s creamy enough to be drizzled on top of cookies. 7. Let the glaze set and enjoy them! Submitted by Maria Grazia Lutricusi. “I’m Italian and I bake all kinds of Italian desserts. My company name is Sugar Ribbon by Mary. I’m usually at the makers market at Lakeside Village every second Sunday of the month. I would like to share one of my favorite cookie recipes that brings in one bite, all of the Italian cannoli flavors.” PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP BREAD 2 cups flour 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 1/2 sticks butter (room temperature) 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice 2 eggs 1 (15-ounce) can organic pumpkin 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1. Preheat oven to 325 F and butter two loaf pans. 2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and pumpkin spice. 3. In a second bowl, add softened butter and sugar. Beat the butter and sugar with a hand mixer until combined. (1-2 minutes) 4. Add the eggs one at a time and continue beating until smooth. 5. Add the pumpkin and blend on medium. 6. On low speed, add in the flour mixture and chocolate chips until combined. 7. Pour the batter into the two loaf pans and bake on the middle rack, checking at one hour. 8. Allow the pumpkin bread to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing from the pans. (the hardest part!) 9. Enjoy!! Submitted by Bailey Hill from Captivate Digital Creative.

I have endeavoured, in this Ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an Idea, which shall not put my readers out of humour with themselves, with each other, with the season, or with me. May it haunt their houses pleasantly, and no one wish to lay it! Their faithful friend and Servant, C.D. December 1843. To the Victorians, the forces of cruelty felt as insurmountable as they do today—living within and alongside institutions that sustained the few and blamed the many who depended on them. London’s workhouses and debtors’ prisons were not aberrations; they were policy made visible. A thirty-one-year-old Charles Dickens knew that argument rarely moves people, but recognition does. In 1843, Dickens needed both money after the flop of “Martin Chuzzlewit” and an outlet for his outrage at a parliamentary report on child labour in England. It revealed children barely out of infancy working in mines, seven-year-olds already veterans underground, eight-year-olds smoking to endure the conditions, and boys sent below “as soon as they can stand on their legs.” Dickens’ own childhood in a shoe-blacking factory after his father’s imprisonment gave the issue first-hand weight. He considered a protest pamphlet, “An Appeal to the People of England on behalf of the Poor Man’s Child,” but knew it wouldn’t deliver the “sledgehammer blow” he wanted. He resolved instead to create something with “twenty thousand times the force.” And he did. “A Christmas Carol” has been adapted more than 150 times: silent films shot in borrowed warehouses, animated experiments, art-house interpretations, Cold War morality plays, prestigious BBC miniseries, and versions meant for schoolrooms and afternoon specials. In the late 20th century, another creator driven by social responsibility—and a matching sense of humor—emerged: Jim Henson. Long before the Muppets entered Dickens’ world, he built a universe shaped by empathy, equity, and the belief that kindness could change culture. His characters challenged prejudice, taught children to question injustice on Sesame Street, and proved that humor and moral seriousness could coexist. After his passing, the company carried that mission forward. “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992) became the meeting point of two storytellers a century and a half apart. Dickens delivering his “sledgehammer blow” to Victorian cruelty, and Henson’s legacy guiding the Muppets to continue that message with warmth, wit, and the conviction that compassion can still change us. In 1992, “The Muppet Christmas Carol”—my favorite film—was released. I’d argue that we are, to some degree, shaped by the movies within our reach during early childhood. I shudder to think who I’d be had my young eyes not met the felt faces of the glorious Muppets every holiday season. It was the first Muppet feature made after Jim Henson’s passing, and the company approached it as both an adaptation and an elegy. Brian Henson’s direction carries the unmistakable softness of someone preserving a legacy in real time. For fans, the shooting star has become one of the most meaningful visual signatures in the Muppet tradition. It was first used in “The Muppet Movie” to honor Jim Henson, appears again here above Kermit, and continues to surface in later productions. A living archive of Henson-era puppetry, the effects are Muppet worthy. The Ghost of Christmas Past was filmed underwater to achieve her floating, haloed shimmer, an effect rarely attempted before or since. My thought is because the screen can only hold one being so utterly terrifying. The Ghost of Christmas Present is built on the tradition of British pantomime giants. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, towering and silent, uses in-camera scale tricks that predate digital compositing. Paul Williams returned to the Muppet world after composing “The Rainbow Connection,” and “The Muppet Christmas Carol” became one of the first mainstream modern family musicals to borrow structure from Victorian song forms. Gonzo, cast as Charles Dickens, marks the first time the author steps inside his own narrative. Jerry Juhl wanted Dickens’ prose to survive intact. And so it does, spoken aloud with such earnestness that generations of children know Dickens by way of Gonzo the Great. In 2015, Brian Henson told The Guardian that when he approached Michael Caine for the role, the actor responded: “I’m going to play this movie like I’m working with the Royal Shakespeare Company. I will never wink, I will never do anything Muppety. I am going to play Scrooge as if it is an utterly dramatic role and there are no puppets around me.” Scrooge is defined by his lack of connection and feeling, but for the story to work, we must still connect to his plight, even as we condemn his cruelty. “The Muppet Christmas Carol” stands in a lineage of adaptations, but it also stands apart, a film that believes, more than any other version, that empathy is an art form. Reaching children who cannot yet read Dickens, viewers uninterested in the black-and-white masterpieces of yesteryear, and in the tradition of the best stories ever told, those who take in entertainment but depart with something far greater. Every year we return—page, screen, stage, streaming— to “A Christmas Carol.” A story that reminds us the future can still be edited. Within our small worlds, our choices become the sparks of better mornings, or those lengthening the darkest nights of our neighbors. Across every one of the more than one hundred and fifty adaptations, the ghosts offer up the same reminder: Do not look away. We can still make the Muppets proud.

Carol Burnett recently celebrated her 92nd birthday. She is currently among the stars of “Palm Royale” on Apple TV. She spent seven decades sharing her acting and comedic talents. Winter Haven played a role with Burnett in the early days of her career. It was January 1961 and Robert “Bobby” Hiers just returned to Winter Haven from working on an oil pipeline in the western U. S.. The twenty-nine-year-old Hiers moved here from Georgia with his family in 1938 and graduated from Winter Haven High School in 1950. Following graduation, like many other area youth, he went on to work and ski at Cypress Gardens. He even served as a stunt double (along with another Garden’s skier) for Van Johnson and Esther Williams in one scene from “Easy to Love” (1934). His height and rugged good looks had made him a favorite for photo shoots. His salary for a six-day week was a robust $37.46. When he returned in 1961, he approached Robert “Bob” Eastman, then executive director of the Florida Citrus Exposition, inquiring about work. Eastman suggested he work as a back stagehand for the Garry Moore Show to be produced at Nora Mayo Hall – so he did. Sitting atop Hiers shoulders, Carol Burnett. One evening Eastman told him he should attend a Moore Show cast party to be held at LaMond’s Restaurant on Cypress Gardens Road (now Boulevard). He did so reluctantly and soon found the group socializing, dancing, and having a great time. As the evening progressed, he noticed one young woman standing off alone, so he asked her to dance. Little did he know that he and Carol Burnett would quickly become good friends. In fact, they would become such good friends that when the show’s production ended, Burnett used her two-week vacation to stay and enjoy Winter Haven – and Bobby’s company. He offered to teach Burnett to ski and the photo presented below is the result. Bobby Hiers professed he really didn’t realize Burnett’s star was on the rise. She returned in late summer that year and spent another four weeks in Winter Haven with Hiers as her escort. One local paper would even publish a photo listing Hiers as Burnett’s “boyfriend.” Burnett’s photo for Nick Christy’s Celebrity Photo Wall At the suggestion of Cypress Garden’s founder Dick Pope, Hiers called the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa to make a reservation for he and Carol. Upon arrival, the entire Gonzmart family was on hand to make them feel welcome. Seated off to the side of the dining room, he and Carol enjoyed the evening in relative quiet. Upon asking for the check, the maître d’ informed Hiers that they would not be charging for the dinner as it was an honor to have them dine at the Columbia. On the way home, Bobby turned to Carol and said, “If I’d known dinner was going to be free, I’d have ordered a margarita!” Hiers relates that their dates were the result of an honest, straight forward friendship and simply enjoying each other’s company. By year’s end, Burnett and her career were off to new heights, and Hiers moved on. Bobby Hiers with Burnett photo. Circa 2015 In 1965 Bobby Hiers met his future wife Beth as they both worked at the New York World’s Fair. He would spend his career modeling for such companies as Piper Aircraft, Hilton Hotels, Maas Brothers, Bell Telephone, Sears, Ryobi, Sea World, Equitable Insurance, Busch Gardens, Crisco, Ford, Johnson Outboard Motors and many, many more. He also made appearances in movies such as “Barracuda”, “Goldfinger”, “Parenthood”, “Edward Sissorhands”, “China Beach”, “Splash II”, and of course, “Easy to Love.” He and his wife lived in Winter Haven where they raised two sons, Chris and Dana. Not bad for the man that taught Carol Burnett to waterski. This installment is based a personal interview with Bob Hiers conducted July 10, 2015. Mr. Hiers passed away on October 11, 2017 Garry Moore Show Sidebar: When Winter Haven “Had a Secret” ... In 1957, “I’ve Got a Secret” (later evolving into “The Garry Moore Show”) was enticed to Winter Haven and broadcast live from the Lake Silver Amphitheater. The event was a promotional alliance with “The Florida Citrus Exposition” as the now-defunct citrus festival was known at the time. The quasi-game show was among the most popular television shows of the late 50s and early 60s. Moore’s trademark flat top hair-cut and bow tie had made him the popular host of the show. Panel members included Bess Myerson, Betsy Palmer, Henry Morgan, and Marion Lorne. Cypress Gardens legend Dick Pope with “I’ve Got a Secret” host Garry Moore. Circa 1957 The show was broadcast live at 10:00 a.m. each day throughout the Citrus Festival. Photo documentation of the events record zany sketches and the prominent involvement of many local leaders including Cypress Gardens founder, Dick Pope, and Exposition Manager, Robert “Bob” Eastman. More than 30 million people across America watched the live broadcast. The Garry Moore Show returned in 1961 and brought their “new discovery,” a comedian named Carol Burnett. Local restaurant legend, the late Nick Christy named Burnett the most interesting celebrity he had met through the years. “The Garry Moore Show” was broadcast from the mid 50s until 1967. Just imagine ... live television from the Lake Silver Amphitheater.

This recipe uses a very easy-to-grow (and fun to look at!) squash. Luffa (Luffa sp.) is a squash that is used as a vegetable or as a sponge. It is easy to grow and is vining in habit. Grow luffa where the long fruits can hang, and harvest depending on their use. If using as an edible vegetable, harvest when green and about six inches long. If using as a sponge, allow to mature and harvest when the peel is brown and pulling away from the interior. Peel away the skin/husk and remove seeds to use as a sponge. For more information on growing and using luffa: gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/luffa Here is a recipe from Master Gardener Volunteer Jackie Hollister: 3 cups unbleached or whole wheat flour 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 cups, unprepared young luffa, grated 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped + 1 teaspoon flour (optional) 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease 2 loaf pans. 2. Sift flour, cinnamon, soda, salt and baking powder together. 3. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs well, then gradually add sugar and oil. Mix well. 4. Add vanilla and dry ingredients, blend well. 5. Stir in Luffa. 6. Combine walnuts & flour and stir in, if using. Pour batter into 2 greased pans. Bake 1 hour. 7. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans. Wait 24 hours or refrigerate overnight before cutting.

Central Florida’s mild winters create the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the weather during the holiday season; so in this month’s article, we’ll be discussing six beautiful natural areas that you might consider visiting! These locations offer fun for the whole family, with many of them providing opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or even camping. You’ll also have the chance to spot some of Central Florida’s unique wildlife, including several rare or endangered species. Whether you’re a Polk County resident or someone just visiting, a trip to one of these locations might be the bow on top of your holiday season. CIRCLE B BAR RESERVE 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland One of Polk County’s most famous outdoor destinations, Circle B Bar Reserve offers prime birdwatching, especially for migratory species in winter. Keep an eye out for wading birds like roseate spoonbills and wood storks, or for bald eagles soaring overhead. You’re also almost guaranteed to see alligators, which will be out soaking up the sun on cold days. The variety of walking trails and kids’ activities at the Polk Nature Discovery Center also make this location great for families! CROOKED LAKE PRAIRIE 985 Ohlinger Rd., Babson Park This quiet preserve offers a rare glimpse of Florida’s ancient scrub ecosystem. These scrub habitats were once islands, and they now exist as elevated, sandy areas that are home for many rare and threatened Florida species. At Crooked Lake Prairie, you might be able to spot a Florida scrub jay, a rare bird found only in the Sunshine State, along with gopher tortoises and seasonal scrub wildflowers. Bring binoculars, a hat, and keen eyes – Crooked Lake Prairie rewards those who slow down and look closely. GATOR CREEK RESERVE 9120 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland Situated on the edge of the Green Swamp, Gator Creek Reserve offers wide multiuse trails winding through a variety of ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, cypress domes, and oak hammocks. In winter, cooler weather makes longer rides or hikes especially pleasant! Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer or wild turkeys and bring binoculars to look out for warblers and migratory birds! MARSHALL HAMPTON RESERVE 3115 Thornhill Rd, Winter Haven With its scenic oak hammocks and views of Lake Hancock, Marshall Hampton Reserve is perfect for a peaceful winter stroll. If you want to get out in the sun to shake the chill, the open Osprey Overlook Loop Trail is your best bet, while the Acorn Hammock Loop Trail provides an arching oak canopy with a beautiful saw palmetto understory. With a special use permit, equestrians may even bring their horses to ride through the scenery. Whether you’re looking to get some steps or miles in, or to exercise your horse, Marshall Hampton Reserve truly has it all. SUMICA 14020 Hwy. 60 E., Lake Wales SUMICA is the largest of Polk County’s Environmental Lands and provides an excellent opportunity to feel as though you’re really in the backcountry. Habitats range from marshes to oak hammocks to pine flatwoods, some of which bear the remnants of the once-thriving historical logging community. “SUMICA” stands for Societe Universelle Mining Industrie, Commerce et Agriculture, a French logging company that once used the land, though the town of SUMICA practically vanished in the early 1900s once all of the trees had been harvested. The property has since returned to its natural Florida glory, and it is excellent for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. When winding through the trails, you might catch sight of the fluffy Sherman’s fox squirrel or hear the drumming of a red-cockaded woodpecker, a federally endangered species. LAKE KISSIMMEE STATE PARK 14248 Camp Mack Rd, Lake Wales This expansive park offers nearly everything: camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even living history demonstrations of old Florida at the Cow Camp. You can even rent a canoe or kayak during the months of November through April to paddle the Buster Island Paddling Trail, where you’ll be immersed in creekside flora and fauna. Among the park’s 12 distinct natural communities, wildlife is abundant – look for birds such as sandhill cranes, crested caracaras, and wild turkeys, or large mammals such as white-tail deer or the occasional bobcat. Kid- and pet-friendly, it’s a great place for a full-day or overnight adventure. WHY GET OUTDOORS? Visiting these natural areas benefits more than just your weekend plans – it also helps support conservation efforts, raises awareness for rare species, and boosts the local economy through ecotourism. Any money put towards entry fees, camping or horseback riding permits, or even souvenirs from the gift shop feed back into supporting the conservation activities of these parks – so by visiting them and taking advantage of their services, you are actively giving back to Florida’s natural areas! MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT Contribute to Citizen Science – If you have your phone out on the trail, you can use apps like iNaturalist to document wildlife sightings. This contributes to valuable research about the presence and abundance of our wildlife species! Be Sun & Bug Smart – Even in winter, Florida’s sun is strong, and mosquitoes can still be active. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water, so you don’t have to leave the trail earlier than intended! Leave No Trace – It is our responsibility as outdoor recreationists to minimize the negative impacts we have on these lands. You can help protect habitats by packing out trash and staying on marked trails. Check out www.lnt.org for more guidelines on how to be a responsible outdoor enthusiast! Check Park Rules – Some locations limit pets, bikes, or horses to protect sensitive areas, so it’s best to know before you go! This holiday season, give yourself the gift of fresh air and new experiences. And, after visiting one of our beautiful natural areas, tell a friend about the experience you had to encourage them to join you next time. Whether you’re seeking rare birds, exploring Florida’s scrub habitats, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, Central Florida’s natural areas offer something for everyone. Bundle up (lightly – even in the winter, it’s still Florida!), grab your camera or binoculars, and get outdoors to make some wild memories. To learn about more locations to enjoy Polk County’s Environmental Lands, visit www. polknature.com . For more insights into the conservation lands and places to experience wild Florida in Polk County, readers are encouraged to connect with the UF/IFAS Extension Office in Bartow or email Shannon at scarnevale@ufl.edu .

ORNAMENT MAKING Dec. 4, 6 p.m. at The Dali. In this hands-on workshop, you will create your own surreal ornaments featuring imagery inspired by the latest special exhibition, “Alberto Giacometti & Salvador Dalí.” Register in advance. thedali.org HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE Dec. 20. The parade kicks off at 6:15 p.m. near the Lighthouse off Davis Islands, cruising past Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island, and the Tampa Convention Center. From there, large boats will end, while smaller boats continue upriver ending near Armature Works. Free viewing along the Riverwalk. thetampariverwalk.com CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD Select nights throughout December at ZooTampa. Featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delicious holiday treats, amazing wildlife, seasonal entertainment, and new festive adventures. Included with a ZooTampa Membership or day ticket. No reservations needed. zootampa.org WHEEL OF FORTUNE Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Wheel of Fortune LIVE! brings America’s favorite game to the stage for a special Holiday edition! The game show has been adapted into a stage show where randomly selected guests get the chance to win over 500 prizes! rutheckerdhall.com WINTER VILLAGE Through Dec. 24 from noon – 10 p.m. daily. Winter Village has transformed Curtis Hixon Park and the surrounding Riverwalk into an immersive holiday experience that includes an open-air ice skating rink, unique food & drink options, nightly 360-degree light shows, and weekly events. wintervillagetampa.com LES MISERABLES Dec. 10 – 14 at the Straz Center. Set against the backdrop of 19thcentury France, Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean, who, for decades, has been hunted by the ruthless policeman Javert after breaking parole, and agrees to care for a factory worker’s daughter. strazcenter.org A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec. 5 – 23 at the Straz Center. The show comes to life as a live 1940s radio play, complete with holiday music and clever sound effects. The tale of Ebenezer Scrooge unfolds in a nostalgic evening of ghosts, redemption, and festive storytelling. strazcenter.org DOLLY ‘S SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec. 22 & 23 at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, this musical reinvents Dickens’ classic in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee of the 1930s, with Ebenezer Scrooge as the owner of a mining company town. rutheckerdhall.com CLASSIC MOVIES At Tampa Theatre. Sing-Along “White Christmas” (1954) at 3 p.m. on Dec. 7; “Elf” (2003) at 3 p.m. on Dec. 14; “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) Dec. 19-23; and “Love Actually” (2003) at 3 p.m. on Dec. 28. Purchase tickets online. tampatheatre.org NEW YEARS EVE Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Ring in 2026 with a dazzling fireworks celebration over the Hillsborough River, featuring prime viewing spots along the Riverwalk and at Jackson’s Bistro, Bar & Sushi. Welcome in the new year with sparkle! VIP opportunities available for purchase. thetampariverwalk.com

ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL Select nights in December at the Central Florida Zoo. Wander the three-quarter-mile pathway filled with all-new, handcrafted lantern scenes, each glowing with thousands of LED lights. Ocean-inspired landscapes meet mythical creatures. Enjoy seasonal food available for purchase. Reserve tickets in advance. centralfloridazoo.org STORM LARGE Dec. 16 & 17 at Judson’s Live. Best known and beloved as the current lead vocalist for Pink Martini, Storm Large brings her wicked charm and soaring voice in two evenings of cheeky holiday merriment. Get in the spirit with music, gags and gifts, and your favorite songs. drphillipscenter.org HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL Throughout December at Universal Studios. See all of the Christmas decorations at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Seuss Landing will be all spruced up for Grinchmas, and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s larger-than-life balloons will head through the streets along with seasonal treats & entertainment. universalorlando.com JINGLE BELL RUN Dec. 13, 9 a.m. at Baldwin Park. This race for charity is hosted by the Arthritis Foundation. Wear your favorite holiday gear, and jingle all the way toward a cure! Run or walk toward victory over arthritis. Register in advance. events. arthritis.org/jbrorlando DINOS IN LIGHTS Throughout December between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Orlando Science Center. Join Stan the T. Rex and his fossil friends in DinoDigs, a festive display of music and light. Each family-friendly show will begin every half hour and concludes with a wintry surprise. osc.org KRAMPUSFEST Dec. 7, 2 – 9 p.m. at The Plaza Live. Features live bands, delicious food, festive drinks, a holiday market with local makers, eccentric performance art, costumes, a Krampusnauf parade, and plenty of mischief. The earlier hours are family-friendly, but after dark, the horns come out. (18+ after 6 p.m.) themilkdistrict.org ORLANDO TREE LIGHTING Dec. 5, 5 – 9 p.m. at Lake Eola Park. Countdown to the lighting of the City of Orlando’s Christmas tree! The event will include holiday performances at the amphitheater, food trucks, and the return of the Merry Market. Enjoy a snowfall and a visit with Santa! downtownorlando.com HANUKKAH CELEBRATION Dec. 21, 5 p.m. at Lake Nona Town Center. Bless and light the menorah in a special ceremony to commemorate the Festival of Lights. Plus, enjoy a DJ, stiltwalker, children’s performers, face painters, and more. Try traditional foods while the kids make dreidels and learn the story of the holiday. ohwhatfunlakenona.com CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Select days from Dec. 6 – 23 at Orlando Family Stage. Based on the TV special that first aired in 1965, “A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage” brings the Peanuts gang to life in an adaptation filled with music and laughter as Charlie Brown searches for the true meaning of the season. orlandofamilystage.com THE OUTSIDERS Dec. 16 – 23 at the Dr. Phillips Center. In Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1967, Ponyboy Curtis, his best friend Johnny Cade, and their Greaser family of ‘outsiders’ battle with their affluent rivals, the Socs. The Greasers dream about who they want to be in a world that may never accept them. drphillipscenter.org

HOLIDAYS ON CENTRAL Dec. 6, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m at Central Park in Winter Haven. This event includes a FREE 90-minute show by Dwight Icenhower as Elvis, over 100 vendors to shop, giveaways, food trucks, live entertainment, interactive activities, and photos with Santa Claus! More info on FB @HavenLKLD DISNEY’S DARE TO DREAM JR. Dec. 12 – 14 at Lakeland Community Theatre. Drawing from a century of beloved Disney films, Dare to Dream JR. features songs appearing for the first time ever in a Disney stage musical, including fan-favorites from “The Princess and the Frog,” “Coco,” “Encanto,” and “Frozen II.” lakelandcommunitytheatre.com LIVE & LOUD Dec. 5, 6 p.m. at the Ritz in Winter Haven. Polk County’s raw talent and underground energy. More than just a showcase, it’s a safe, inclusive space where rising artists and creatives from the local scene own the stage. Discover new bands every First Friday. $5. Find more info at centralfloridatix.com . BLINKY’S SNOWBALL Dec. 6, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. The Florida Children’s Museum transforms into a winter wonderland and guests can experience a family-friendly dinner, hot chocolate bar, holiday family photos, take-home crafts, dancing, winter-themed sensory table, twinkling lights, and more. Purchase tickets at explorefcm.org/snowball . LAKELAND CHRISTMAS PARADE Dec. 4, 7 p.m. Begins with a fireworks display over Lake Mirror at 7 p.m. The parade will leave the RP Funding Center and travel down Lemon Street toward Downtown. The parade turns at Main Street to Cedar Street and winds around Lake Mirror, travels Orange Street, and ends at the RP Funding Center. lakelandgov.net LKLD SANTACON Dec. 6, 5 p.m. Downtown Lakeland. 5-7 p.m. kickoff event at Molly McHugh’s; 6:30 p.m. Costume Contest; 7:15 Annual Group Photo at Munn Park. Visit all participating bars in any order you like and make sure to get them stamped for a chance to win. lkldsantacon.com HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND Select days in December from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Families will enjoy new seasonal shows, festive activities, huge bricktastic décor, seasonal food and drink, dance parties, snow, and a special kid-friendly NYE celebration on December 31. legoland.com/florida WINTER FAIRY FEST Dec. 13 & 14, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Bok Tower Gardens. Family-friendly fun all day! Aerial Fairy Dancing, ballet performances, Fairy & Nutcracker Meet & Greets, Towering Stiltwalkers, music, and more! Find more details and see the full schedule at boktowergardens.org . FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Dec. 6, 4 – 7 p.m. at the Aerospace Center for Excellence. Airplanes are the star of the show as you walk through a maze of twinkling lights and enjoy warm apple cider, hot chocolate, and cookies. Make sure to get your selfie with Santa! aceedu.org AN ELVIS GOSPEL CHRISTMAS Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m. at the Gem Theater. An unforgettable evening with five-time world champion Elvis tribute artist Dwight Icenhower as he brings the King’s most soulful gospel hits and beloved Christmas classics to life. This performance captures the warmth, faith, and festive joy of the holidays, Elvis-style! mulberryculturalcenter.org

LIVE & LOUD Dec. 5, 6 p.m. at the Ritz. Polk County’s monthly pulse of raw talent and underground energy. More than just a showcase, it’s a safe, inclusive space where rising artists and creatives from the local scene own the stage. Discover new bands every First Friday. Find more info at centralfloridatix.com . WINTER FAIRY FEST Dec. 13 & 14, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Bok Tower Gardens. Family-friendly fun all day! Aerial fairy dancing, ballet performances, fairy & Nutcracker meet & greets, towering stiltwalkers, music, and more! Find more details and see the full schedule at boktowergardens.org . PLAID TIDINGS Dec. 4 – 21 on the Second Stage at Theatre Winter Haven. At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge, and Sparky aren’t sure why they’ve returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they’re needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. theatrewinterhaven.com DECK THE YARD Dec. 13, 2 p.m. - close at Bowen Yard. Family-friendly fun! Celebrate the holidays with music, so many lights, activities for the kids, seasonal food and drinks from each of the restaurants, and a visit from Santa from 4 - 6 p.m. More info on FB @bowenyardwh TREE LIGHTING Dec. 4, 6 – 9 p.m. at Central Park in Winter Haven. Entertainment begins at 6 p.m., tree lighting at 7 p.m. Enjoy festive live performances with family and friends. The first 100 children will receive free cookies and hot chocolate, a sweet start to the holidays! Hosted by the City of Winter Haven and Main Street Winter Haven. mywinterhaven.com WINTER HAVEN WONDERLAND Dec. 12, 6 – 9 p.m. at Central Park. Enjoy free pictures with Santa (6:30–8:30 p.m.), a special showing of “The Polar Express” under the stars, and a variety of kids’ activities including ornament decorating, letters to Santa, and inflatable fun zones. mywinterhaven.com HOLIDAYS ON CENTRAL Dec. 6, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m at Central Park in Winter Haven. This event includes a FREE 90-minute show by Dwight Icenhower as Elvis, over 100 vendors to shop, giveaways, food trucks, entertainment, interactive activities, and photos with Santa Claus! More info - FB @HavenLKLD SANTACON Dec. 20, 6 p.m. at select bars in Downtown Winter Haven. Unlock exclusive food and drink specials at more than a dozen locations as you sip, stroll, and be jolly all around town. Dress in your festive best and join the fun. centralfloridatix.com HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND Select days in December from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Families will enjoy new seasonal shows, festive activities, huge bricktastic décor, seasonal food and drink, dance parties, snow, and a special kid-friendly NYE celebration on December 31. legoland.com/florida GROWN UP GAME NIGHT Dec. 27, 8 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre. ADULTS ONLY (21+) Get ready for a night of playful fun and a little friendly competition. The drinks flow, the laughter’s loud, and the games get just a little bit spicy. Whether you come as a couple, a single, a group, or with friends, everyone’s welcome! theatrewinterhaven.org