FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lisa Baker events@humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org

Smoke OFF The Water

The Humane Society of Polk County Announces "Smoke OFF the Water": A New Food & Music Festival to Support Local Pets in Need.

Winter Haven, FL (January 19, 2024) -

The Humane Society of Polk County is thrilled to unveil a new community event, "Smoke OFF the Water," a Food & Music Festival designed to bring together the best of local cuisine, talent, and family fun—all in support of a noble cause. Scheduled to take place on February 2nd and February 3rd, located at 2400 Dundee Road, Winter Haven, Florida 33884. Just right down the road from our facility on Dundee Road. This festival promises a day of delectable eats, rhythmic beats, and engaging activities for all ages, with proceeds directly benefiting the animals cared for by the Humane Society of Polk County.

"We are very excited to introduce Smoke OFF the Water, a new Food and Music Festival for people of all ages to enjoy in our community," says Lisa Baker, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Polk County. "This event will help us to increase awareness of the many services the Humane Society offers for Polk's Pets!"

Smoke OFF the Water will feature an array of local food vendors offering smoky delights to tantalize the taste buds, while several area bands set the soundtrack for a day filled with joy and community spirit. In addition to the feast for the senses, the festival will host a variety of games and activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Tickets are priced at an affordable $5 per person, with children 10 and under enjoying free admission. A $5 cash donation is requested for parking at the event, ensuring that every aspect of the festival contributes to the Humane Society's mission.

In the heart of Polk County, this festival represents more than just a day of enjoyment; it's a chance for the community to rally behind the Humane Society's ongoing efforts to provide shelter, low cost spay/neuters and shot clinics, and loving homes for pets in need. The Humane Society of Polk County, a no-kill shelter, has been a beacon of hope for animals since its establishment in 1972, and events like Smoke OFF the Water are essential in continuing their vital work.

Local businesses and individuals looking to support the festival and the Humane Society of Polk County can explore various sponsorship opportunities available on the nonprofit's website. Such contributions are invaluable to both the success of the event and the welfare of Polk's pets.

For more information about Smoke OFF the Water, to purchase tickets, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://www.humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org/ or contact Lisa Baker at events@humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org.

Join us in making a difference—one bite, one beat, one game at a time—at Smoke OFF the Water!

About The Humane Society of Polk County: The Humane Society of Polk County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the wellbeing of animals in Polk County. As the area's first established no-kill shelter, the Humane Society provides a sanctuary for animals in need, adoption services, low cost spay/neuter and low cost shot clinics, and educational programs to promote responsible pet ownership. For more information, please visit www.polknokill.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Contact: Hannah Holjes

                Tinsley Creative

                863.583.0081 

                hannah@tinsleycreative.com   

Lakeland REALTORS^® to Celebrate Centennial Milestone

Lakeland, FL — Lakeland REALTORS^® - a professional trade organization chartered by the National Association of REALTORS^® who has continually served its members and community for ten decades – is poised to celebrate its 100^th year in 2023.

Chartered on April 14, 1923, Lakeland REALTORS^® will commemorate this centennial anniversary with a 1920’s-themed gala hosted at Bonnet Springs Park for its members.

“We are looking forward to celebrating the past 100 years - and the next 100 years - with our members,” said Lakeland REALTORS^®CEO Barbara Barnes. “There is so much history to cherish, and even more great things to come for this organization as we move into the future.”

Lakeland REALTORS^® will bring its celebration to the community throughout the year as well, beginning with banners on the Downtown Lakeland lamp posts.

A new initiative, 100 Acts of Service, has also been initiated to celebrate the organization’s 100^th year. This program encourages and recognizes the members of Lakeland REALTORS^® for engagement in and service to the Lakeland community. The initiative highlights the organization’s history of serving its community in addition to efforts to fight for private property rights, and low taxes and utility fees for residents. 

“I have learned the importance of our association for not only my business and educational opportunities, but also for the support for individual homeowners’ rights as well,” said Lakeland REALTORS^® Member and Immediate Past Board President Shannon Cornell.

The past 100 years have provided opportunities for Lakeland REALTORS^® to make strides, but there is a lot to look forward to for Lakeland REALTORS® and its members as well. As the Lakeland community grows, the organization continues to look ahead at the next 100 years in service to Lakeland residents. 

“This year marks our organization’s incredible achievement of 100 years of dedication to advocating for our REALTORS^®’ best interests in the policy-making process for our industry,” said current Lakeland REALTORS^® Board President Jana Lutz. “Lakeland REALTORS^®will continue to do the necessary work of addressing our community’s concerns by being a voice at the top of the decision-making process.”  

Lakeland REALTORS^® is a professional trade organization chartered by the National Association of REALTORS^®. We have been serving our members and community for 100 years and continue to fight for private property rights, low taxes, keeping utility fees to a minimum and affordable housing opportunities in our area. Our leadership objectives are to unite those engaged in the recognized branches of the real estate profession for the purpose of exerting a beneficial influence upon the profession and related interests. To promote and maintain high standards of conduct in the real estate profession as expressed in the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS^®.

For more information on Lakeland REALTORS^®, visit www.lakelandrealtors.org; or contact Hannah Holjes at Tinsley Creative, email: hannah@tinsleycreative.com; phone: 863.583.0081.

###

For immediate release:  May 3, 2022    

SPCA Florida Rock for Paws

Lakeland FL – SPCA Florida invites you to ROCK FOR PAWS!  A fabulous concert to raise funds for homeless dogs and cats. Saturday, May 14, at Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven. Doors open at 7pm. 

Everyone’s favorite rock band SMOKEPOINT will perform live classic and modern pop/rock hits. From Journey to Jonas Brothers, Motley Crue to Maroon 5, Van Halen to Greta Van Fleet, The Cars to The Weekend.

A large dance floor, great food selections, concession snacks, beverages, spirits, and an amazing raffle where you can win a drum set, a guitar package, or an electric piano/keyboard. 

Food trucks, cash bar and concert t-shirts available!  Tickets are fifteen dollars and all proceeds go directly to support FL SARC!  

Get your ROCK FOR PAWS tickets today, at https://www.spcaflorida.org/rock-for-paws or call SPCA Florida for more information.

Join the most musical fundraiser of the year!  Together we Rock for the Animals!

Saturday, May 14, 2022

7 PM to 10 PM

Nora Mayo Hall

500 3rd St NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881

About SPCA Florida

Founded in 1979, SPCA Florida exists to eliminate animal suffering and engage the entire community in the welfare and well-being of animals. SPCA Florida will help and heal 20,000 dogs and cats through its SPCA Florida Animal Medical Center and provide direct care for 6,500 animals through its Adoption Center this year. Ani-Meals and Food Assistance Programs, provide food and medical care for animals of homebound families and families who need supplemental food for thousands of dogs and cats each year.

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Soaring your way April 13th-18th 2021, the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is back and better than ever! Coming off the heels of 2020's unfortunate cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions, aviation enthusiasts can look forward to 6 exciting days of SUN 'n FUN's world-famous aviation spectacle, including hundreds of exhibitors, dozens of forums and workshops, plus breathtaking aerial displays by some of the best airshow performers in the business. The Lakeland Linder International Airport has a brand-new runway and improved taxiways, ready to become the world’s busiest airport and welcome thousands of aircraft with their pilots and passengers for an exciting week in beautiful Central Florida!

Since 1974, SUN 'n FUN has attracted millions of plane spotters and pilots alike from around the globe to share their collective passion for slipping Earth’s surly bonds. This 2021 Aerospace Expo is eagerly anticipated by aviation enthusiasts and fans everywhere as they look forward to this open-spaced, action-packed outdoor event. 

Following recommended CDC guidelines, safety procedures for public health have been put into place for this year’s show so that fans can get back to safely enjoying magnificent airshows again in 2021 at Lakeland Linder International Airport. 

“Our event certainly suffered alongside the rest of the world when the pandemic forced us to cancel last year,” said Greg Gibson, Chief Marketing Officer and Airshow Director for SUN ‘n FUN, “but we are coming back better than ever in 2021 with new and exciting things for our guests in a COVID-responsible venue that has their safety and enjoyment as top priorities. We’re ready to welcome our flying family back to SUN ‘n FUN!”

Headlining the show's exclusive lineup are the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, who are celebrating their 75th Anniversary with all-new F-18 Super Hornets and the return of “Fat Albert”. An Ex-Royal Air Force C-130J Hercules recently retired from "across the pond" has taken on the role of the fan-favorite affectionately known as “Bert”. With a paint refresh and improved logistics support, SUN ‘n FUN 2021 is the very first time the public will get to see the new Super Hornets and Fat Albert's sleek new look in-person. Performing thrilling combat and aerobatic maneuvers for over 500 million fans since 1946, their newest season is sure to make history alongside the F-22 Raptor Demo Team, Aeroshell Aerobatic Team, and many, many more daring aerial artists across the week-long event.

Adding to the festivities, SUN ‘n FUN will be commemorating the 75^th anniversary of the end of WWII with several special programs, including expanded warbird flyovers, aerobatic demos, and live interviews on the famous Warbird Ramp with several WWII veterans. Fans will thrill to incredible displays of amazing aerobatic skill as World Aerobatic Champion Rob Holland returns to SUN ‘n FUN. Rob, along with many more aerobatic performers will be visiting the new Aerobatic HQ area, expanded and redesigned this year to celebrate the 75^th anniversary of the Pitts Special, and the 50^th anniversary of the Super Decathlon.

Camping, forums, workshops, and of course hundreds of exhibitors are all back, ready to kick off “Spring Break for Pilots”. Careful attention has been taken to put protocols in place that ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal COVID guidelines. It’s a great time to get your airplane back in the air and down to Lakeland!

SUN 'n FUN will honor 2020 ticket purchases at the 2021 SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo as long as no refunds have been made. Just bring your 2020 ticket with you and you are all set. Please contact SUN 'n FUN if a change is required for a scheduled ticket (i.e. 9/27 Club or Preferred Airshow Seating). For additional information and 2021 ticket purchases, please visit SUN 'n FUN's website: https://flysnf.org/aerospace-expo/purchase-tickets

About SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In, Inc.

The SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit whose mission is to preserve and enhance the future of flight through world-class events, inspiring and educating people of all ages. Year-round events, including the SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In and Expo, which is one of the world’s largest aviation events, raise funds for the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE). SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In annually raises funds for ACE enabling the delivery of STEM-related and aerospace education programs engaging over 50,000 local youth each year. Additionally, ACE manages and allocates local aerospace scholarships. For more information, www.flysnf.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Kevin Cook

Director of Communications

City of Lakeland

863/834-6264

Social Media @lakelandgov

CITY OF LAKELAND WILL HOST RACE RELATIONS COMMUNITY FORUM

JUNE 29^TH AT RP FUNDING CENTER

LAKELAND, FL (June 25, 2020) - The Lakeland City Commission will host a community forum on race relations on Monday, June 29^th at the RP Funding Center Youkey Theater from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.  The forum will be set-up to allow the community to share their views on issues of race and equality. Commissioner Phillip Walker will open the event sharing his views and experiences before handing the mic to Mayor Bill Mutz who will be the moderator for the evening. Mayor Mutz said, “We want the forum to be a time of listening and it is important for the community to know that we will not have solutions on the night of the event. However, solutions will come after we hear from the community.” He added, “Empathy and understanding are the first steps in creating solutions and the first steps toward improving relationships.”

City Manager Tony Delgado elaborated, “The event is a critical starting point for the community to come together and learn from one another. The best solutions come from working in unity so we want to hear from people in the community in a listening and learning session. We are reaching out to the representative groups on the issue asking them to join us for the event.”  He added, “We may not be directly experiencing some of the same issues as those communities that we see in the news but it is important that we do the very best we can to promote equality and fair treatment no matter the color of our skin.”

The City Commission will hear from four stakeholder groups that include:

1. Black Lives Matter Polk – Jarvis Washington
2. NAACP Lakeland Branch – Jackie Vickers
3. BRIDGE Local – Chrissanne Long
4. Parker Street Ministries – Tim Mitchell

After the four stakeholder groups give an overview, the City Commission will then ask to hear from the public.  Each person addressing the mic will get three minutes to share their views with the Lakeland City Commission.  Those wishing to address the Commission will sign-up and be given a number. Mayor Mutz will call on the speakers by number and direct the audience member to the one of the four strategically placed microphone positions. Each microphone location will have a que with social distancing marks on the floor as part of the safety protocols in place for the event.

Those attending the event in person are encouraged to park in the Green Lot at the RP Funding Center and enter through Entrance One (see attached map). Coronavirus safety protocols will be in place including social distancing and the use of a face covering is mandatory.  All visitors will be screened upon entry to the RP Funding Center. Visitors must have a temperature below 100.4 degrees and they must not have travelled to a known out of state COVID-19 hotspot. Visitors will be asked if they have experienced a cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or problems breathing, chills, muscle pain and/or loss of taste or smell within the last 12-hours. The nation is still grappling with the impact of a pandemic and Florida recently has experienced a spike in positive COVID-19 cases with a steady rise since Memorial Day.

The City of Lakeland was incorporated January 1885 and has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida.  Lakeland continues to grow with the current population over 100,000. It has been designated a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years.  With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland capitalizes on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor.  The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State 115 years ago. For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit www.lakelandgov.net.  Citizens are also invited to follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Vimeo, Snapchat and Nextdoor.  Citizens can find the City of Lakeland on these social media platforms by searching lakelandgov.

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January 25, 2020 - 9AM to 1 PM. - Lake Region Village, 31850 Highway 27 South, Haines City.  Beautiful quilts, knitted and crocheted  items, handmade cards, furniture, home decor, wood crafts, jewelry, yard and garden pieces all made by local residents.  Early birds will find breakfast items for sale.  Lunch available starting at 11 AM.

Featuring Postcards and Perceptions: Seminole Culture and Tourism

LAKE WALES, Florida – Now on display at the Lake Wales Museum is the traveling exhibit, “Postcards and Perceptions: Florida Seminoles and Tourism,” on display through June 1, 2019, from the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum which is owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. 

Postcards serve as guidepost to the changes of early 20^th century Florida history. Their simple, yet evocative imagery reveals the adaptive nature of the Seminole people and attest to the complex pressures and adjustments Seminoles endured to assert their identity.

“The Seminole Tribe is alive and well in Florida, and this exhibit shows us the modern side of the Seminole people today,” states Jennifer D’hollander, director of the museum.  “We imagine native people as they were in our childhood history books, but they are a thriving part of Florida’s tourist economy, cattle industry and stewards of the environment.”

The Seminoles, like many Native American groups, became integral to the tourist trade in the early 1900s. As their traditional lifestyle of hunting and canoeing faded away under Florida land development, tourism offered an alternate source of income. Many traditions, like patchwork and alligator wrestling, blossomed under the tourist trade. Over time, important Seminole leaders and entrepreneurs learned vital skills as shop owners. These skills remain relevant today as the modern Seminole Tribe of Florida navigates its ever increasing role in international business and as key voice in Indian Country. 

This exhibition features pop up banners about the history, crafts, and significant figures of Seminole tourism, dating from the 1900s to the 1950s. There is an interactive true/false station and an oral history station that shares stories from seven tribal members.

The exhibit is made possible by the City of Lake Wales and sponsored by Visit Central Florida.  It will be on display now through Saturday, June 1, 2019.  The Lake Wales Museum is free and open to the public Tuesday – Saturday from 9 AM – 5 PM.

About the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Situated in the Everglades on a 66-acre cypress dome on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, the Museum offers more than 5,000 square feet of gallery space. Exhibits feature rare artifacts and lifelike dioramas that depict Seminole life at the turn of the century. In 2009, the Museum became the first tribally governed museum to be accredited by the American Association of Museums. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., the museum is located 18 miles north of Interstate 75 at Exit 49. For more information, visit www.ahtahthiki.com or call 877-902-1113.

About the Lake Wales Museum

The Lake Wales Museum features historical exhibits, train cars, educational programs and group tours, and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free.  Parking is free and the first floor is accessible for persons with disabilities, wheelchairs and strollers.  For more information contact the Lake Wales Museum, 325 S Scenic Highway, Lake Wales, Florida 33853; 863-676-1759 or visitwww.lakewalesfl.gov.

LAKE WALES, Florida –  The Lake Wales Museum will celebrate Black History Month with three programs throughout February 2019.  Join us for a unique exhibit, non-fiction book discussion and stirring speaker series. 

Featured Exhibit - “Freedom Riders”

February 20 thru March 20

This exhibition was created in partnership with WGBH Boston / The American Experience. The self-proclaimed "Freedom Riders" challenged the habits of a racially segregated society by performing a disarmingly simple act—traveling together in small interracial groups, and sitting where they pleased on buses and trains. Demanding unrestricted access to terminal restaurants and waiting rooms, they were met with bitter racism, mob violence, and imprisonment along the way. But their courage and sacrifice over eight months in 1961 changed America forever.

(Freedom Riders Exhibit)

Featured Humanities Speaker

Dr. Tameka Hobbs - “Strange Fruit In Florida”

February 21 @ 6 pm

Despite its reputation as the “Sunshine State” and a tourist destination, Florida harbors a lengthy and painful history of racial violence. Dr. Tameka Hobbs examines the history of lynching and racial violence in Florida, outlining the overall arc of the “lynching era” in the United States, normal dated between 1882 and 1930, as these instances of extralegal violence became more sporadic in the 1940s. She also highlights to role of Harry T. Moore’s advocacy against lynching and in favor of civil rights for African Americans in Florida.  Tameka Bradley Hobbs is an Assistant Professor of History and University Historian for Florida Memorial University. Dr. Hobbs is founding president of the South Florida Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Inc. (ASALH).

(Dr. Tameka Hobbs)

Featured Book Club Book - Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin

February 27 @ 12 pm

Dedicated to non-fiction, you'll discover the truth can be much stranger than fiction. Join us every month to discuss new book! Read the book and come ready to discuss the best non-fiction books. Free to the public and all the books are available to check out free of charge at the Museum while supplies last.

“We are pleased to include the history of African Americans in the museum and with special programming.  The museum strives to practice the inclusion of all Lake Waleans in our programs and history – to fill in important gaps were we are lacking ethnic history – we can continue to infuse diversity in our collective history,” said Jennifer D’hollander, director for the Lake Wales Museum.  “We hope this presentation will help our community and visitors gain a deeper understanding of the African-American experience in the U.S.  Lake Wales has a diverse population including 35% African-American residents.  Many events from the past century’s civil rights experience were playing out right here in Lake Wales.  It’s important to discuss these events, even though the talk by Dr. Hobbs will include some unsettling topics, we must remember how far we’ve come.” 

(First African American Schoolhouse in Lake Wales)

These programs are made possible through the City of Lake Wales, Visit Central Florida, and the Florida Humanities Council with funds from the Florida Department State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.  These programs are free to the public.  To RSVP, please visit the museum website at www.lakewalesfl.gov. 

About the Florida’s Humanities Council

The Florida Humanities Council sponsors community based projects, facilitates important conversations among Floridians, and shines a spotlight on Florida’s history, art, and culture.  Established in 1973, we are an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. For over forty years we have developed and funded public programs that tell the stories of both Florida and those unique individuals that call this state their home.  For more information, visit www.floridahumanities.org.

About the Lake Wales Museum

The Lake Wales Museum features historical exhibits, train cars, educational programs and group tours, and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free.  Parking is free and the first floor is accessible for persons with disabilities, wheelchairs and strollers.  For more information contact the Lake Wales Museum, 325 S Scenic Highway, Lake Wales, Florida 33853; 863-676-1759 or visit www.lakewalesfl.gov.

No Man is An Island, the new single by the Rusty Wright Band, was inspired, in part, by an autistic child but was written for everyone who has ever felt set apart from others - physically or mentally marooned. Shipwrecked, if you will.

"It's not a three-minute pop song. It's a powerful piece of music and I felt it important to follow where the music was taking me, rather than me trying to compress the song into a cookie cutter format," said Rusty Wright, front man and primary songwriter for the group.  "That being said, it's longer than most radio hits but only because it has so much to say. The lyrics speak of sadness, of feeling apart, and longing for a place where you feel like you belong, like a castaway on an island who through no act or fault of their own has been placed apart from the rest of the world. From that description you'd think it would be a depressing song but the music builds to a soaring organ and guitar crescendo as the song progresses and at every show people have leapt to their feet at the end. That's what prompted us to make this the first single."

"We knew we had something special when we performed it at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago in June. We had just started performing it live. We hit the last note and heard this wave of sound roll at us from the audience as the entire place stood and roared their approval. You always dream of moments like that. Buddy was in the audience that night and later, as we got a photo with him he told me "You're great, man. Don't you take **** from anybody." At that moment I felt my life was complete," laughs Wright.

The second single, slated for release in late October, is a rendition of the rock classic Mississippi Queen. The song was originally included in the band's 2013 This, That & the Other Thing album but was originally recorded with an extended spoken delta blues intro, rendering the song too lengthy for airplay at most radio stations.

"Laurie actually suggested that we re-release the song in a shorter format," said Wright. "I revisited the raw tracks, cut off the intro and the fade-out ending, and took that mix into Clear Track Studios in Clearwater, Florida where we are recording the rest of the album, and we remixed and re-mastered it".

The song stays mostly faithful to the original Mountain tune except for the insertion of a bridge section with additional lyrics. 

"I always loved the song but I always heard something additional in my head so I added it. I'm very happy with the remix and think it will do quite well," said Wright.

The Rusty Wright Band is a Billboard Top 10 recording/touring act formed in 2004 by Rusty and Laurie Wright. Originally hailing from Michigan, the Wrights relocated to Florida three years ago and reconfigured their band, enlisting bassist Nic Allen of Winter Haven, drummer Chris America of Clearwater, and B3 organ player Dennis Toerpe of New Port Richey.

Band leader Rusty Wright describes the group's sound as aggressive, progressive, electric roots rock with a blues edge.

"We're doing things a little differently this time," explains Laurie Wright. "In the past, our releases have been full albums but the industry is moving back toward a focus on singles so this time around we're going to experiment with releasing a string of singles every six or eight weeks, culminating with the full album release just in time for the start of our spring and summer tours."

Currently, the group has five albums to their credit, with album number six slated for release in early 2019. The band's most recent release, "Wonder Man" [Sadson Music 2015] reached #8 on the Billboard Blues Chart, #4 on the Billboard Heatseeker chart, #3 on the Hit Tracks Top 100, #5 on Relix Magazine's Jam Bands chart and was nominated for Album of the Year in the Vintage Guitar Magazine Reader's Choice Awards. In 2014 the group was inducted into the Michigan Blues Hall of Fame® as a Master Blues Band.

The Rusty Wright Band performs at Lkld Live 8 pm Friday, November 9, 2018. Admission is $5/advance, $7/door for row seating, or $15/VIP table seating.  Buy Tickets: https://squareup.com/store/lkldlive

LAKELAND, FL – Young women from across the state will compete for the right to wear the Miss Florida tiara during the Miss Florida Pageant and Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Pageant.

The 83rd Annual Miss Florida Pageant and Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Pageant will take place from Tuesday, June 25 to Saturday, June 30 at the RP Funding Center's Youkey Theater, formerly known as the Lakeland Center, 701 Lime St. The event is open to the public. 

A unique spin on this year’s event is the participation of Miss Lakeland and Miss Winter Haven. The title of Miss Lakeland was revived by local entrepreneur Christine Boring, the nonprofit organization held their first pageant March 18 at the Lake Mirror Theater. The Miss Winter Haven title was added this year as well.

In total, five titles from the Polk County area will be represented, including Miss Polk County, Aaliyah Manning; Miss Swan City, Madison Zavitz; and Miss Lakeland, Isabel Skormin; as well as Miss Florida Citrus, Megan Price and Miss Winter Haven, Megan Boykin. 

Titleholders from around the state will gather in Lakeland to compete for the title of Miss Florida. The Miss Florida titleholder will then take part in the Miss America Pageant, the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women and one of the nation's largest achievement programs.

Miss Florida Sara Zeng won the title in July 2017 when she competed with 46 other young women for the opportunity to represent the Sunshine State.

And while getting a shot to win the title of Miss America is the ultimate goal of Miss Florida, if, for some reason she isn’t chosen, she’s still busy. Zeng, for example, has represented the pageant at various events around the state, from opening days and first pitches to pageants and ribbon cuttings. Additionally, she’s used her skills as a talented musician to connect to students in classrooms from Tampa to Tallahassee and beyond.

Besides the title of Miss Florida, there is also the Miss Florida Outstanding Teen competition. Held during the same timespan as the Miss Florida Contest – June 27-30 – the winners of the teen competition are more than just forerunners for Miss Florida. They also appear at various events around the state. Locally, Miss Lakeland’s Outstanding Teen, Jaiden Lagarino, as well as Miss Swan City's Outstanding Teen, Grace Craichy, will be competing. 

The Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Pageant and the Miss Florida Pageant will take place on June 30 at 4 p.m. and 7: 30 p.m. respectively. Preliminary competition is from June 26 to 28. The Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen Preliminary will be held June 29 at 6 p.m. The Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen Finals are June 30 at 4 p.m. The Miss Florida Finals and the crowning of the next Miss Florida start June 30 at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.missflorida.org.

The Symetra Tour brings tomorrows LPGA stars to Polk County

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Once again, the Country Club of Winter Haven serves as the starting point on the “Road to the LPGA” in 2018, hosting the 10th annual Florida’s Natural Charity Classic to open the Symetra Tour season.

A field of 132 players is set and they will compete for a purse size of $125,000 from Friday, March 16 to Sunday, March 18. Of the individuals comprising the field, a total of 27 countries will be represented. In addition, 20 total states boast at least one competitor. 

First and second round action at the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic gets underway at 8:15 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, respectively. Following 36 holes of play, the field will be cut to the top 60 players and ties. Then on Sunday, the final round tees off at 8:30 a.m., with a trophy presentation to follow on No. 18 green. 

The tournament also marks the first of 21 events in the season-long Race for the Card, where the top-10 players on the money list at the end of the year will earn a LPGA Tour card for 2019. 

The Symetra Tour is the official qualifying tour of the LPGA Tour and enters its 38th competitive season in 2018. With the support of its umbrella partner Symetra, the Tour’s mission is to prepare the world’s best young women professional golfers for a successful career on the LPGA Tour. Since Symetra’s inaugural sponsorship year in 2012, the Symetra Tour has grown from 16 tournaments and $1.7M in prize money to $3M in prize money awarded over the course of 22 tournaments. With more than 600 alumnae moving on to the LPGA, former Symetra Tour players have won a total of 427 LPGA titles.

NEWELL, SIMS PART OF LOCAL TALENT IN FIELD

When play gets underway on Friday for the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic, 12 total players that call the Sunshine State home will be part of the competition, a group that also features three from Tampa, including AJ Newell and Sierra Sims. 

While many of their counterparts will be flying then driving to get to Winter Haven, it’s essentially a home match for these individuals, nearly in their backyard.

“I certainly love the travel that comes with playing golf as a professional, but it generally means no family or friends can come watch you play,” said Newell. “Having this event so close to home means my parents will be able to come watch, and that means the world to me. Golf has given me a very tight knit family.”

Newell was homeschooled in high school before attending the University of Tennessee. Born and raised in Tampa, her parents still live in the same house she grew up in.

Reflecting on 24 years of memories from across the state, Newell points out just how much golf has given her.

“To think back to all the clinics, lessons, practices, and tournaments that my parents sat through to get me to this point really amazes me,” said Newell, a former Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) All-American Honorable Mention performer. “I remember all the tough practices and swing changes my dad and I worked through together, the workouts my sister motivated me to get through, and the pep talks my mom would give me when I was away from home. Playing so close to home makes me proud to be able to compete in front of them.”

Sims, on the other hand, attended Westlake High School in Austin, Texas, but her family moved to Tampa when she started at Wake Forest University in 2013. No matter the path, Sims still finds comfort in the Tampa area, where she now lives and trains. 

“Growing up, we moved around a lot. Since I've been in college, I've called Tampa my home,” said Sims. “I will be able to sleep in my own bed during the practice round days and on a day where I have a late tee time. It will also mean that my family will be able to come watch me play and cheer me on.”

Representing their home state is important to both players, as well as each individual from Florida playing in the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic. There’s a sense of pride that comes with the territory of a tournament being contested where you’re from. 

Just as the path to how they got where they are today is unique, so is how they will approach the first event of the 2018 Symetra Tour season.

“My game plan for Florida's Natural is to go out there and have a great time competing,” Sims said. “My plan is to leave everything out on the course and walk away on Sunday saying I gave it my all, while staying true to my game.”

On the other hand, Newell looks to simply ease into the flow. 

“My first and main goal for this entire year, and especially Florida’s Natural, is to stay positive. I want to make it a priority to stay positive and be my own best friend,” said Newell. “For Florida’s Natural, my goal is to get back into competing as smoothly as possible. You can't truly know what you need to work on until you play under the pressure of a tournament.”

Jacci Rizzo’s Can-Do Attitude Sees Her Through A Lifetime of Obstacles

By Lisa Fellows-Coffey

WINTER HAVEN - Through all of her adventures, no one ever said to Wonder Woman, “You have cancer.” 

But Jacci Rizzo, a real-life version of the superhero lass, has heard those words in her adventuresome lifetime. 

Rizzo, a Polk State College professor, has not only battled cancer and won, she’s used her nothing’s-going-to-stop-me attitude to survive two life-or-death instances that would rival an Indiana Jones action film. 

Rizzo, 61, of Winter Haven, is the honorary chair and guest speaker at Polk State College’s annual Relay for Life event, to be held Thursday, March 8, on the Winter Haven campus. 

The Relay is an American Cancer Society, volunteer-driven, annual event and fundraiser meant to bring awareness to all forms of cancer. The event raises money for research and wellness programs while celebrating survivors and remembering those that have lost their cancer battles. 

The Polk State Relay for Life, which begins at 5:30 p.m., is the first of many relays in the county across the next two months, which are all open to the public. 

A high heels race for men and a lip sync battle are the highlights of the Polk State event. 

In addition, the Polk State College Over-55 Show Band and Polk State College music students are performing. The luminaria ceremony begins at 7:30 p.m.

“Administrators, faculty, staff and students are all joining together for one thing in mind, helping to raise money to save more lives,’’ said organizer Melissa LaRock. 

Rizzo will serve as the Relay’s guest speaker. She has quite a story to tell and many interesting instances to draw from.

She has traveled the world, met Mother Theresa and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro.

That’s not all. 

Her husband, Tony, a doctor, surgeon and Polk State professor, has seen his wife of 38 years work hard and achieve things others might think once impossible. 

He was with her in Tanzania when they were chased by men with machine guns, and in Nairobi, when the two were held hostage in a hotel by gun-toting rebels .

He was looking through the scope with the doctor who saw her coral-like tumors that were her bladder cancer. 

“She handled it better than I did,” said Rizzo, an Air Force Colonel. 

Anthony was not surprised at all when Jacci decided to continue to earn her college degree while she received chemotherapy treatments.

“She’s really remarkable, incredibly self-effacing and humble,” said Tony. “Getting her degree was an amazing challenge and she just rose to that challenge. I can’t say enough good about her.”

Cancer did stop Jacci, but only for a moment. “I was shocked,” she said when she heard the reason for her pain. “Especially when the diagnosis came through. People with bladder cancer have generally smoked or worked with textiles – neither of which I’ve ever done. Both my parents were heavy smokers. Who knows about second-hand smoke?”

But then in true Jacci form, she assessed her situation and decided to tackle the dreaded disease head-on. 

“We were fortunate to have excellent care with the Air Force, and my husband and children were incredible,” she said about facing cancer. “I had access to good care and my teachers were understanding.”

Her superhuman attitude and outlook on life has carried her through times the rest of us could only imagine, or could only be imagined by Hollywood screen writers. 

 “I really don’t like to say I can’t do something,” said Rizzo, matter-of-factly. She sits at her family’s large dining table at her Winter Haven home. 

With keen eyes, a blonde bob and a sweet smile, the first-time grandmother-to-be methodically ticks off fascinating stories of her life. Her home is a monument of neatly-placed memorabilia from places all over the world. Her right arm bears scars and a permanent bump from an adventure gone awry. Rizzo is someone who rarely sits still and jokingly calls herself an excitement junkie. And sometimes the events leading to the excitement are more than expected. 

But Rizzo doesn’t see barriers or fear.

Her mental fortitude is that of an Olympic athlete with a bible by her side. She takes on a project and goes forward. 

She credits her faith, her love of reading and learning and her lifetime experiences, to not only survive, but thrive in adverse circumstances. “I try,” she replied when asked about her positive thinking. “A lot of it I guess comes down to my faith,” she said. “When I was little, I loved to read biographies – how people who are successful and overcame things.”

Her iron will-power was tested in high school--her family became homeless for a time. “I found a copy of The Grapes of Wrath,” she said. “I thought, what would Ma Joad have done?” she said. Her parents were also alcoholics.

“It was negative,” she said about their circumstances. “It did motivate me to work harder and be an achiever.”

Her situation was much the same years ago when a Jeep full of armed men followed the couple in Tanzania.The Rizzos were taking photos, against cultural norms. 

The men in the Jeep started shooting. As the Rizzo’s dodged gunfire in their own vehicle, the couple collided head on into another truck. Jacci was ejected. Anthony and their vehicle tumbled into a potentially-fatal roll. Anthony managed to break free from their vehicle and found Jacci submerged in a mud puddle. “It was very obvious she was critically injured,” he said. 

Thanks to Anthony’s medical knowledge, his insistence and a combination of diplomats, crafty nurses, and group of pilots, Jacci survived a precarious journey to a room at the George Washington Medical Center where she spent three months in bed. Her prognosis wasn’t pretty. She would probably spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.  

Someone with less mettle than a real-life Wonder Woman might have allowed themselves to fall into a trap of depression, but not Jacci. 

“They actually sent a psychiatry resident to talk to me, because people were surprised I wasn’t more devastated,” Jacci said. “Why should I be above others? It’s just - this is happening and luckily I have resources and choices and not everyone has that. The real tragedy would be to not have someone supportive in your life. It just didn’t seem logical to me. It’s not who I am.” Her positivity is logical to Tony. 

“That’s how the immune system responds,” said Tony. “Your endocrine system is directed to respond to your brain. You can have an immune response, or you can not. She’s just someone who keeps going.”  Rizzo defied doctors by learning to walk again, although her once-broken right arm was never the same, and is limited in both turning and grasping. 

She also kept going when the pair were held hostage in a hotel in Nairobi after the Kenyan Air Force attempted to overthrow the government around 1982. They were shooting in the streets. Those caught in their way were shot dead or were injured.  

As medical professionals, the Rizzo’s simply did their duty as caring humanitarians and helped those in need. 

“We had multiple patients who were shot,” Tony said. “Several were raped. It was terrible. We were hostages for several days.”

Jacci was unfazed by it all.  “She never blinked,” said Tony. Jacci’s mental fortitude was the same during her cancer battle in her late 40’s. She endured multiple surgeries over two years to remove cancerous tumors, but she never stopped aiming for her goal of earning her degree.

During the time of chemo treatments, she remained positive and kept life as normal as possible, which included taking her daughters, Catherine and Joanna, to dance classes and recitals. 

“Her attitude was one of a fighter,” Joanna said. “She’s always had this great we-can attitude. She just lives it.”

Like a superhero will do anything to save the world, Rizzo’s special ability is the belief that healing and taking on challenges is mind over matter. 

“I think our emotions and our attitude play a very important role in everything we do,” she said.  “I do feel that it has a huge impact on your health and recovery no matter what you are facing.”

Sheer determination is also motivating. Take Rizzo’s approach to continuing her college classes while receiving chemotherapy. “I wanted to set an example for my children,” she said. It wasn’t a crazy idea to Tony, Jacci’s top supporter.  “I know her,” he said. “You don’t roll over and let life take care of you. You’ve got to take care of yourself. I didn’t see any other option and Jacci didn’t either.” She couldn’t wait for a catheter to be removed to take a physics final. She went anyway.  “I was kind of getting some sympathy points,” she joked. Since her two-year cancer battle, Rizzo has received annual medical check-ups. A true academic, she has a list of do’s and don’ts for those fighting the battle. 

“Anytime you go to doctor, don’t go by yourself,” she said. “Take notes because you’re not going to remember everything later. You are going to be in an overwhelming condition. Go for care with a list of questions. Listen to the doctor. It’s so tempting to go on the internet these days and try to research everything. Go to a reliable source and go to a doctor you can trust.”

She proudly speaks of her Bachelor of Arts degree, which she earned at age 50. Decorated like an academic superhero, she graduated from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Summa cum laude and was given the Distinguished English Scholar award from the college staff.

Her eyes light up when she speaks of her students. 

She loves using her degree and Masters in Education to teach, and humbly inspire. It’s the same passion that’s heard in her voice when she talks about volunteering at Meals on Wheels, or donating her time to read to grade-school children. 

“We’re here to do things, enjoy life and help each other,” she concludes after looking back at her life. “Otherwise, what’s the point?”

Relays in Polk County:

RELAY FOR LIFE OF POLK STATE COLLEGE: (Paint Polk Purple Party)

Date: March 8

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Place: Polk State College, Winter Haven campus

RELAY FOR LIFE OF WINTER HAVEN (Paint Purple Week)

Date: April 6

Time: 5 p.m.

Place: Downtown Central Park

RELAY FOR LIFE OF LAKELAND:

Date: April 13

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Place: Munn Park

RELAY FOR LIFE OF MULBERRY:

Date: April 20

Time: 6 p.m.

Place: Mulberry High School

RELAY FOR LIFE OF SOUTH POLK:

Date: April 27

Time: 4 p.m.

Place: Mosiac Park

For more information, call 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.RelayForLife.org

By Amy Sumerlin 

Photos By Chris Douglas

It was a happy mistake.

I had lunch at Posto 9 a couple months ago with my lovely friend Linda, but I wanted to try out the dinner menu before I wrote this article. My husband, my mother, and I met there on a Thursday night. I went straight from work, so it was an early meal – beat the crowds, you know. 

Not so much. 

The mistake, you see, was not making reservations. We had arrived about 5:45; the lovely lady at the front counter told us she would be able to seat us at “about 8:00”.

“Or you could try our rooftop dining,” she said.

So, without hesitation, off we went to the third floor, a rooftop lounge that draws its inspiration – and its name – from the Rio de Janeiro beach Ipanema.

In fact, that beach is very much tied to the vision for the entire restaurant: One long stretch of sun-drenched sand, Ipanema Beach is divided by postos (posts), which mark off subcultures as diverse as the city itself. Posto 9, right off Rua Vinícius de Moraes, is where Rio’s most beautiful and tanned bodies migrate. 

“Rio de Janeiro means ‘The Beautiful City’, explained restaurateur Marco Franca. “And we thought the name Posto 9 reflected exactly what we wanted the restaurant to be – a beautiful area where all aspects of society come together for a great culinary experience.”  

The “we” to whom Franca refers includes himself and his wife, Grace, partners in the business, and often, Posto 9’s Executive Chef, Michel Revy.

It All Comes Together

Marco and Grace Franca moved from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Lakeland in early 2014. They left Brazil due to political, economic and social uncertainties. Lakeland was selected due to proximity of Marco’s Mother; and because it was close to two large international airports. 

During the first year, Grace was living full time in Lakeland while Marco, a busy executive who ran PR Newswire throughout Latin America, commuted to Sao Paulo on a bi-weekly basis. 

And while the Francas quickly came to love their new town, “we also knew that whenever we were looking for a great culinary experience, we were travelling to Tampa or Orlando.”

So the pair decided to combine their love for fine dining experiences and their entrepreneurial spirit, and open an outstanding restaurant here. 

The concept of a Brazilian restaurant was confirmed based upon the positive reception their recipes received when their new friends dined in their home.

“Just by coincidence,” Franca continued, “I heard about Michel Revy.”

Revy comes to Posto 9 with 20 years of experience. He too was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and most recently worked as Lead Sous Chef at Publix Apron’s Cooking School in Lakeland. 

Prior to joining Publix, Revy was Corporate Chef to Marius Churrascaria (a Brazilian steakhouse) in Rio de Janeiro and managed the successful entry of Outback Steakhouse into Brazil.

The Building

“We had fallen in love with downtown,” he said.

One day, while walking in the area, he came upon the building that housed the former Preservation Hall. The historic building on East Main Street, right across from Munn Park, was built originally in 1908. It had housed everything from a bank to a residence to a real estate office to a music store and most recently an entertainment venue. 

Much of the building was in bad shape, and to make it beautiful again, required a great amount of deconstruction and reconstruction.

Franca is particularly proud of the fact that everything that could be saved, was. 

In fact, the table at which we dined that night was made from wood salvaged during deconstruction.

Franca was pleased to find that the second floor, which had been sealed since the 1940’s, was still in relatively good shape, and now houses event space.

Our Dinner

I was happy the minute the elevators opened. It’s a beautiful space, and the wind made the temperature perfect.

Our server, Kelly, was awesome: Friendly and efficient at the same time, she manages to make dining on that third floor feel as if you have been invited to an exclusive party.

Keep in mind the menu on the rooftop is different than downstairs – so several trips to the restaurant to get the full culinary experience, what Franca describes as “Brazilian Southern Fusion”.

We started out with the Po sto 9 Cheese Board ($18), a delightful beginning. I later found out that all the cheese is house made. 

‘We use the freshest ingredients possible, and make everything we can in-house,” Franca remarked. “We filet the fish, cut the meat, and make the bread, butter and cheese ourselves.”

My husband then chose the X-Burger Pastel ($13): think perfectly spiced short ribs, aged cheddar, and poblano aioli in an empanada-type shell. He was served three, and two was enough for one evening.

My mother chose the Chicken Passarinho ($14): think boneless chicken pieces in Brazilian spices. Mom is the least adventurous, culinary-wise, and even she was tickled with the blend of spices that made it tasty but not too hot. She too had enough left over for the next day’s lunch.

I chose the Fried Grouper Sliders ($15), and will definitely order them again.

The Future

Is definitely bright for Posto 9: A fabulous venue, an adventurous menu that combines the best of Brazilian cuisine with Southern flair—try their Chicken and Waffles (with guava ketchup) or Shrimp and Grits (with roasted tomato sofrito), for example – and the result is a fabulous place to enjoy alone or with friends.

The 19,000 guests who have been served there in the first four months… well, that’s just the beginning.  

FMI: 215 E Main St., (863) 499-0099; posto9gastropub.com

Folk tradition says October 12 may be the day for northern gardeners to plant garlic as well as early October is a good time to plant garlic in The state of michigan. In the mild weather of a Michigan fall, the roots will start growing and the garlic may even send up a go. When the ground freezes garlic might go dormant, be prepared to start growing again typically the early spring. By the second fall you end up being able to dig up some nice garlic cloves.

Avoid Feeding. Especially when the temperatures are soaring, it is better to avoid fertilizing your lawn. The chemical in the fertilizer can burn your lawn, causing soiling. If possible, try using an What is Organic Farming. It contains fewer chemicals and is less required to burn because it's slow production. Again, try to avoid this during the summer months. Any fresh growth that acquire will struggle in the intense heat.

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The Ritz Theatre is proud to present the RON SEGGI Show on January 9th as part of The Ritz Theatre’s

“This is Your Life” Music Series brought to you in part by Visit Central Florida and the Ritz Theatre
Benefactors.

Beginning his career at the age of fourteen in radio, his “love” for radio began when his father took
him to visit a station when he was seven. With that as his inspiration, he built his own studio (which could be
heard for several blocks) in the basement of his home when he was eleven. Three years later, he got his first
deejay’s job at a commercial station and was eventually named its music director.
In the 70’s he launched his career, put together a nightclub act, and performed warm-ups for several
nationally-known entertainers. The Erie, PA native opened his own advertising agency, bought his first radio
station, at the age of twenty-nine.
In the 1990’s, The Ron Seggi Show, referred to as the “Tonight Show” of radio is broadcast live via
satellite from Universal Studios in Orlando. In 2000, Ron Seggi was been tapped as the announcer for Ed
McMahon’s “The Next Big Star” syndicated TV talent show.
Ron sold his radio stations and today continues do live entertainment as well as host his radio show
each weekend over the USA Radio Network, Armed Forces Radio, and Cable Radio Network.
The Gannon University graduate holds a BA in business administration he spends much of his time
aiding causes like the American Heart Association, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, United Way, American
Cancer Society, March of Dimes, and Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs.
The Ritz Theatre is proud to welcome the RON SEGGI SHOW to our stage along with its orchestra and
lovely singers to perform great sounds of the BIG BAND ERA with rendentions from Dean Martin, Ray
Charles, Bobby Darin, and Frank Sinatra.
RON SEGGI LIVE AT THE RITZ
JANUARY 9TH 6PM SHOWTIME
For tickets visit us at www.ritzoncentral.com or Call 863-295-9900
ADVANCE TICKET PRICES Balcony $15, Tier A, B, C - $20 Increase Day of Show
Give the Gift of Music for the Holidays - Gift Certificates Available
Group Rates Available

Team Blacksheep is a fitness team that works with all ages and fitness levels.  Our youngest member is 5 and oldest is 78.  We are not an elite / competitive team, although some of our members do compete competitively in their events. Members participate in fitness events such as road races, marathons, triathlons, obstacle course racing, mud runs, martial arts, rucking, adventure races, trail running, mountain biking, gymnastics, recreational sports, basically anything fitness related.  We have members mostly in Florida, but stem to many states in the US and into Canada. 

We offer workouts in Winter Haven and Orlando.  All of our workouts are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.  The exercises can be modified to suit your needs.  To find out more information about Team Blacksheep, please contact Josh Andrews at TBS_Josh@yahoo.com

Also, check us out on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Team_Blacksheep/1431421120453756

Hi Polk Folks,

Last summer we posted an article that we were coming to Polk County to film the pilot version of our half-hour comedy titled, "WELCOME TO OUR MANSION."  Most of the lead actors are from Polk County and you may recognize some of the local flavor of Polk County in the scenes we filmed.  We've split the pilot into three webisodes now showing completely FREE on our website and on YouTube at www.WelcomeToOurMansion.com.

We are now back in Los Angeles and we are actively pitching the series with the intention of getting picked up for a full season.  While getting picked up by a network is never a guarantee, what we are sure of is that we had top rate talent and one heckuva' good time in Polk County, FL.  We were greatly helped by Carol at the Florida Film Commission while there in Polk.  Also, Lakeland Community Theater and Theater Winter Haven got behind us in so many great ways.  We are extremely thankful and we hope that you will enjoy watching what we have taken to calling our "ultra high-budget, home movie-esque Southern comedy."

We're hoping you'll subscribe to the YouTube channel that supports the show, take the survey to let us know what you think, and spread the word that Polk County is the backdrop for the new crazy, country family comedy, "WELCOME TO OUR MANSION."

Three episodes, all FREE at www.WelcomeToOurMansion.com

With your help, we hope to be back to film many more episodes.

With appreciation,

Jillian Boyd & Mark E. Stephens

Executive Producers and Creators

Houses On Wheels Productions