Party for Putnam Polk’S Hometown Hero to Residents He’S More Than a Politician by JEFF ROSLOW [email protected]

Party for Putnam Polk’S Hometown Hero to Residents He’S More Than a Politician by JEFF ROSLOW JROSLOW@SCMGINC.COM

ARIVA: APARTMENTS: THE Check out what’s for rent. WINTER HAVEN SUN See section inside. An Edition of the Sun Wednesday, May 17, 2017 www.winterhavensun.com TAKE ONE, IT’S FREE! Party for Putnam Polk’s hometown hero To residents he’s more than a politician By JEFF ROSLOW [email protected]

The press release came out at 3:37 p.m. Wednesday with the Republican Party of Florida congratulating Adam Putnam’s bid for governor. Between Davidson and Main Street in Bartow it was no surprise when hundreds gathered for the party for a Republican who is a hometown hero. Wesley Rowe shows Adam Putnam a picture Wednesday, May His clean reputation 10, on his cell phone. He also got the opportunity to thank and his aggressive style Putnam in person for helping him with military benefits he was have not only earned him supposed to get but was having a hard time securing. “He got respect in the state and the ball rolling and I wanted to personally thank him,” he said. U.S. capitols, but in Polk County where they know the kids.” than usual selecting Mr. this is the way he has Cooper became the and Miss Bartow High always been. principal at Bartow School, an annual award He showed that at the Junior High School when where two students are Florida Grown Hometown Putnam was in the eighth ambassadors for the BBQ Wednesday at the grade and he remembers school. Polk County History meeting him the first day. “The judges were Center. “I remember when I having a tough time “Together we can really became principal at the making a decision and make great things hap- junior high, he came the auditorium was filled. pen, as our principal used up to me and shook my The students were done to say on that intercom hand,” Cooper said. “He with their performances every single day. Thank said if there’s anyway he and we were waiting for you for imprinting that can help he’s willing to the judges. They were on my mind and imprint- do that. It was warm and getting restless. ing that in my heart,” genuine. Imagine a 13 or “Adam and I were in Putnam, 42, said when he 14-year-old doing that?” a corner (offstage) and I addressed the crowd. Cooper, the junior high said ‘I hope (the judges) Ernie Cooper, who principal from 1988-1990 hurry up.’ Adam said he’d PHOTO BY STEVE STEINER made that statement and the high school go talk to the crowd. I twice a day to middle principal from 1990-1996, said ‘what are you going Adam Putnam gestures to the audience of supporters and well-wishers as he officially declares said Putnam was a born to talk about?’ He said himself a candidate for governor for the state of Florida. For more photos from the Florida school then high school students, said he realizes leader and frequently ‘I’ll just talk to them.’ Grove Hometown BBQ, see our web sites at www.winterhavensun.com and www.polkcoun- what that has meant to stepped out of his way to He stepped out on the tydemocrat.com his students. help other people. stage and started talking “I see former students all He remembered when to them about BHS and the time and they’ll look Putnam helped in an as- what Mr and Miss Bartow Polk’s native kicks off campaign in his at his home at me ask if I’m still saying sembly in the high school High School meant. He make great things happen. auditorium when the said the people who en- By STEVE STEINER It’s an encouragement for judges took a little longer tered should be honored for the local boy who has Bartow native, his three and that all the students @SCMGINC.COM SSTEINER made a name for himself children being the sixth are winners. He was very throughout the country as this is where Putnam willing to take a risk and I BARTOW – Adam at the Florida Grown still makes his home. was comfortable and con- Putnam formally Hometown BBQ where Musical entertainment fident he could do it.” announced he is attendees were treated was provided by a string That kind of familiar- running for governor to lunch in the 90-degree trio composed of Brian ity with Putnam makes Wednesday, May 10, in heat. Sutherland on guitar, him strong in his home his hometown. As with any political Josh Dampier on fiddle, county. And even people He made his dec- rally, the overall mood and Zach Rogers on who didn’t know him laration before his was festive and in small acoustic bass. when he was growing up, hometown crowd in measure resembled “We’re the Brian felt similarly. Bartow framed by a a street fair. Vendors Sutherland Trio,” said “He helped me after huge flag of the state of merchandised Putnam Dampier, following a I got out of the Marines Florida that hung from for Governor apparel, brief sound check and and was having prob- the portico of the Polk including tank tops, rehearsal. That comment lems with the Veteran’s County History Center, T-shirts and baseball brought about a re- Administration,” said which was the former caps. The steps leading sponse from Sutherland. Wesley Rowe, a Bartow Polk County Courthouse; into the museum on “I haven’t heard that in resident who had never and surrounded by Davidson Street not only years,” Sutherland said. met him. It was 2002 hundreds of supporters was draped by a flag “I mostly play solo.” when Putnam was and well-wishers, among that masked most of “Call us the Adam PHOTOS BY JEFF ROSLOW in the U.S. House of them numerous elected the entryway, but it was Putnam Touring Representatives. Rowe officials, as well as those filled with boxes of fresh- Campaign Band,” said The Hillmans went to the Polk County Museum Center Wednesday, May 10, for the Florida Grown Hometown BBQ. crowded the fence, and local representatives who ly picked oranges, the Rogers. when Putnam walked represent Polk County. business of the Putnam For those who wished, Jason Hillman, in the back, was a high school classmate with it after he spoke, Rowe And his hometown family who has lived in they could have their Adam Putnam. Also in the photo is his wife, Cortney, and his showed the politician crowd showed no short- Bartow for the last six faces painted, such as three children, Alyssa, Wyatt and Adelyn is hiding from either something on his cell age in their appreciation generations. Putnam the hot sun or the camera with the upside down sign. is the fifth generation PARTY | 19 HERO | 19 THE NEWS: Calendar 2 | Viewpoint 4 | Opinion 5 | Reaching more than INDEX | Community 6 | People 15 | Health 18 | School Briefs 20 | 41,400 readers every CALL US AT Police 24 | Home & Garden Inside week! 863.533.4183 Page 2 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Wednesday, May 17 Bartow Farmer’s Market, WELCOME TO YOUR Art Lab, 10:30 a.m.- 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fort Blount noon, free. Polk Museum Park at the corner of Main COMMUNITY CALENDAR of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St., Wine and Nibbles Street and Broadway Lakeland, 863-688-7743, Avenue in downtown Want to see your event on this page? Call us at 863-533-4183 Lakeland. Bartow. or email [email protected]. Lake Alfred Historical Chat & Chew: Food for Museum, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., free. 210 N Seminole Ave., Life Cooking Class, 11 a.m.- Not So Live Gig 2, 8 p.m. 1 p.m., $25 for residents, $28 Lake Alfred. 863-287-3093 Public Hearing for the Polk Theatre, 121 S. or 863-224-2792. for non-residents. Rotary U.S. 98/John Singletary Florida Ave., Lakeland. Park, 350 6th St NE, Winter Bridge Project Development 863-682-7553. Haven. 863-291-5870. New Horizon Church and Environment study Community Event, noon- from west of Edgewood Friday Fest, 6-9 p.m. 4 p.m. New Horizon Hand-Made Cards, noon. Drive to east of the Fort Main Street, Bartow Grove House Visitor Center, Church, 400 Orchid Drive, Meade Recreation Area 863-519-0508. Haines City. 20160 U.S. Highway 27, Entrance., 5 p.m. Fort Lake Wales. 863-679-4110 Meade Mobile Home Park Polk Patriot’s Dinner, Baby Fair, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Activity Center, 1046 SE 2nd 6 p.m. VIP meet an d greet, Thursday, May 18 Heart of Florida Regional St., Fort Meade. 7 p.m. dinner. Sponsored by Medical Center, 40100 U.S. PHOTO BY JEFF ROSLOW Harrison School for the the Polk County Republican Hwy 27, Davenport. 866- Arts Jazz Concert, 7 p.m.. Tiger Bay Club, 11:30 a.m. Executive Committee. Lake 997-DOCS . Tanya Grant found a comfortable place to sit as she $12 adults, $10 students. $25 for non-members and Ashton Country Club, 4141 and Doug Zaler took a walk through downtown Winter Includes Alexander’s guests. Bartow Civic Center, Ashton Club Drive, Lake Armed Forces Day, Ragtime Band, The 2250 S Floral Ave., Bartow Wales. Haven Thursday, May 11, during Wine and Nibbles where musical selections at 1 and residents enjoyed wine, finger foods and visiting busi- Days of Wine and Roses, 3 p.m. Bok Tower Gardens, Refuse to Lose Anti-Crime nesses in downtown Winter Haven. The monthly event is Embraceable You. Harrison Saturday, May 20 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake School for the Arts Theatre Awareness March, 5 p.m. Cypress Gardens Water Wales. sponsored by Main Street Winter Haven. - 750 Hollingsworth Road, assemble time, march at Ski Show, 5 p.m. On Lake Lakeland. 6 p.m. in the Jewell Avenue Silver, Winter Haven. Paws to Read, 10-11 a.m. toiletries donations. Publix S. Broadway Ave., Bartow. neighborhood. Parking at Bartow Public Library, 2150 at Southeast Plaza Shopping 863-534-0131 2017 She Knows Awards City of Refuge Church, 1105 24th Annual Drive for S. Broadway Ave., Bartow. Center, 884 Cypress Gardens Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. N. Ruth Ave. 863-834-6027. Excellence, 10 a.m. Bartow 863-534-0131 Celebrating Girls Inc. The Ford honoring 20 Polk Blvd., Winter Haven. Morning Haven Toastmasters, 7:30 a.m. Lakeland Center, 710 E. Friday, May 19 County juniors and seniors Spanish Story Time, Moose Lodge event, Quality Control Room of the Lime St., Lakeland. 863-688- Creative Yoga With and one will be drawn to 11 a.m.-noon. Bartow Public 2-5 p.m. Moose Lodge, Winter Haven Hospital, 400 5802, 863-682-3002, ext. 222 Michelle Pugh. $10 Non- win a new Ford vehicle. Library, 2150 S. Broadway 3601 State Road 60 E., Lake Avenue K SE, Winter Haven. members / $5 Members. Bartow Ford, 2800 U.S. 98 Ave., Bartow. 863-534-0131 How to do Business Polk Museum of Art, 800 E. N., Bartow, 863-533-0425 Wales. 863-528-8514. with Polk County, 9 a.m.- Palmetto St., Lakeland, 863- ext. 2240. Uptown Yard Sale and Tuesday, May 23 noon, free. Administration 688-7743. Call 863-688-7743 Flea Market, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday, May 22 Middle School Book Building, 330 W. Church St., ext. 249 for time and details. Free Food Distribution by Main Street, Bartow. Vendor Crisis Center Opening, Festival, 10 a.m., Jim Miles Room 150, Bartow Reserve Farm Share. 10 a.m.-noon. fee $10. 863-519-0508. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Peace River Professional Development your spot please visit Free Family Movie Night, Lake Wales Charter Schools/ Center grand opening Center, 5204 U.S. 98 S., polk-county.net 6:30 p.m. James P Austin III SunTrust parking lot, 130 E. Sunday, May 21 of new facility. 715 N. Lakeland. Community Center, 315 Dr. Lake Ave., Lakeland. Central Ave., Lake Wales. Feed The Ridge-Winter PCSO Annual Awards Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., 863-519-0575. Chair Yoga, 9:30 a.m. Haven, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ceremony, 5:30 p.m. Lake Lake Wales. Bartow Public Library, 2150 Live Green Lakeland Eco- The Mission of Winter Eva Banquet Hall, 799 Johns Quilting, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. S. Broadway Ave., Bartow. Festival, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., free. Haven collecting food and Ave., Haines City. The Mike Calta Show: Munn Park, Lakeland. Bartow Public Library, 2150 863-534-0131 INSIDE TODAY

Winter Haven News Lake Wales News Bartow News Pages 3, 7, 8, 9 Pages 13, 14 Pages 16, 17, 22 adno=3454448 adno=3445385

Publisher Chris Sexson Circulation, Classified, Legal Winter Haven Sun [email protected] Anita Swain Published by SCMG Winter Haven Sun Managing Editor Phone: 863-533-4183 Fax: 863-533-0402 Jeff Roslow Office Administration Advertising: 863-533-4183 [email protected] Lora Belue Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 3 WINTER HAVEN NEWS Boots & BBQ kicks off Organizers hope event becomes annual event By STEVE STEINER Hyman, immediate past president Lisa Schlagel, [email protected] president of the WRC. were pleased holding “The new location will the event at The Barn WINTER HAVEN — It be great,” she said. “It’s on at Azalea Oaks, as were was Boots and BBQ the bus route for people Theresa and Rick Jackson, — make that “Boots & who don’t have their own its owners. BBQ” — May 12 at The means of transportation.” “We’re so thrilled they Barn at Azalea Oaks in Hyman said she has wanted to hold it here,” Winter Haven, and it was been involved with the said Theresa Jackson. exactly that and more WRC approximately The facility is fairly at the fundraiser for eight years when she was new, she said. One of the Women’s Resource approached to be on its its unique features is Center. board. the wood used in the “This is the first “Boots One of the numerous barn’s construction. It is and BBQ, and we hope fundraising items, in former power poles. Her it will become an annual addition to the silent auc- husband, she said, works event,” said Cherie tion, was the opportunity for a utility company and Simmers, executive to paint one of the 100 arranged for the no-lon- director of the WRC. In the squares on a canvas at a ger needed poles to be past the WRC has done cost of $250 per square. sent to him. From there, fashion shows but decided It was an opportunity she said, her husband’s a change would be nice. a number of people father has a sawmill. “We missed the guys.” donated. Meanwhile, her PHOTO BY STEVE STEINER She said it was hoped The many silent husband Rick, along with From left, Lisa Schlagel, Cherie Simmers and Jan Hyman pose with the canvas in which for $250 a that at least $10,000 auction items were Ron Waller, were putting person can paint a square (using water colors). Simmers is the executive director of the Women’s would be raised. Those scrutinized by almost all the finishing touches Resource Center in Winter Haven, while Schlagel is this year’s board president and Hyman the proceeds would go to the in attendance. to the dinner: pulled immediate past president. programs offered as well “There’s a quite a pork, chopped barbecue as toward the purchase few,” said Rose Pagan as chicken, beef brisket, and programs offered, said Schlagel. She added that while many of the of the building at 165 she perused the many baked beans and baby among them one that that every dollar raised items in the silent auction Avenue A NW. selections. “I may end potatoes. teaches women life skills goes toward the WRC’s are for women that the The new site will be up spending more than Just before the call went in order to live inde- programs and services. silent auction is actually of enormous benefit to my husband has sent me out that dinner was ready, pendently. That program Just before she offered male-oriented. women who have need of with.” Schlagel told the gath- has been very successful. a prayer of thanks, she “Guys, this is for you. the services and pro- Simmers and Hyman, ering some information, “And folks, it doesn’t teased the men in the Don’t forget Sunday is grams offered, said Jan along with current board plus some of the services get better than that,” audience over the fact Mother’s Day.” adno=3421648 Page 4 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 VIEWPOINT Fight against greening is essential to Florida

Few industries, in our observation, are as proudly infected with the Huanglongbing bacteria that causes independent as the Florida citrus industry. Our Viewpoint greening. While other industries are quick to seek financial Lawmakers and industry agencies at the state or regulatory assistance from government, Florida’s the leaves and roots of healthy trees, destroying the and federal levels are responding to this threat with growers turn to taxing their own product to advance crops and threatening entire groves. funding and research to defeat greening. the interests of their industry. We have seen the industry attack, defeat, and This is not a hat-in-hand plea by the citrus industry Even as the forces of nature — from the freezes of recover from previous threats, and we believe smart to protect its profits. 1894 and 1895 to biological threats like burrowing nem- money will bet on recovering from greening. But It is an effort to defeat a new scourge — perhaps atodes, the Mediterranean fruit fly, and citrus canker everything we read about greening seems to suggest the most serious yet — that threatens the very surviv- — have taken their toll of Florida’s groves (and growers), that it is a more powerful threat than its predecessors. al of the citrus industry. the industry has looked first within itself for solutions. A recent report from the IFAS Citrus Research It deserves a high priority, and strong continued The latest crisis to threaten the industry is citrus and Education Center in Lake Alfred estimates support from members of the Florida Legislature and greening, first discovered in Florida in 2005. It attacks that 90 percent of Florida’s 5,000 citrus groves are the United States Congress. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Thank you, Rep. Killebrew Editor: additional exemption. We would like to thank state Rep. The entire county, including mu- Sam Killebrew, R-Winter Haven, for his nicipalities, would lose more than $14 leadership in standing up to political million. pressure in Tallahassee and voting We are extremely disappointed against the proposed homestead and frustrated that even after two exemption constitutional amendment. face-to-face meetings, Rep. Mike This amendment merely shifts this LaRosa, R-St. Cloud, and Sen. Tom tax burden from homesteaded property Lee, R-Thonotosassa, sponsored owners to commercial, non-homestead the bill without ever talking with and higher value property owners. us. Despite our pleas, Reps. Ben It gives statewide politicians the Albritton, R-Wauchula, Colleen Burton, ability to pat themselves on the back R-Lakeland, and Neil Combee, R-Polk for securing a tax cut for citizens. Then, City and Sens. Denise Grimsley, it will make villains of local leaders R-Sebring, and Kelli Stargel, R-Lakeland, who will make the difficult decisions voted for this amendment bill. to drastically cut services, raise millage We believe that local governments rates, or both. should have the ability to determine If we are forced to reduce revenue and collect fair and reasonable property from every county division propor- taxes to provide necessary services tionately, the largest impacts would without interference from state Even vulgarity has its limits be to the sheriff, fire rescue and our government. facilities maintenance. Specific ad Since the sales tax is a state tax, it Those of us in that unnamed gener- valorem funds, including parks and makes you wonder why they didn’t cut ation between World War II’s Greatest S.L. Frisbie recreation, libraries, roads and storm- theirs. Generation and the post-war Baby water cleanup of our lakes will all be cut The Board of Polk County Commissioners: Boomers can still remember where we proportionally. MELONY BELL were when we heard that President John F. According to our Budget Office, BILL BRASWELL Kennedy had been assassinated. S.L. Frisbie can be contacted at with data from the property appraiser, I was at my desk in Washington, D.C., TODD DANTZLER slfrisbie@hedartlandnewspapers. Polk County will lose approximately doing my job as personnel officer in an JOHN HALL com $10.3 million annually, or 5.2 percent, Army unit. in property tax revenue from this GEORGE LINDSEY III A soldier came rushing in and said: “The President has been shot!” Soldiers can have a bizarre sense of The president’s casket was loaded onto humor, and this declaration was met with one helicopter, and his family, along with The Bible and alcohol hoots and jeers. newly-sworn in President Lyndon B. “No!” he persisted. “It’s on TV!” Johnson, got into another. Editor: one can of beer. Death has occurred We turned on the small black-and-white We watched the two choppers lift For meaning and purpose in life, with consumption of large amounts of television set in the dayroom, and there off, then looked out the window of our some look to the Bible, some look to alcohol. was a game show in progress. alcohol. America was founded with a Many do not want to acknowledge apartment to see them fly overhead. It “Change the channel!” he insisted. hand on the Bible. “Our Lord,” is in the that alcohol kills 88,000 Americans gave us strange sense of being present for U.S. Constitution. The Bible directs us every year. This is on the road, at home, Somebody did, and sure enough, we a turning point in American history. to love God and to love people. This at work, on the water, wherever. This learned that an American era affectionate- Assassination, a violent overthrow of the gives us a constructive and fulfilling statistic comes from a reliable source, ly known as Camelot had suddenly come presidency that we assumed was forever purpose and meaning to life. All our life the CDC. Once we know this fact, a to a violent end. limited to Lincoln, Garfield, and McKinley, we are looking either to our Lord for caring person would say, “We don’t Once it was determined that the was no longer confined to the pages of meaning and purpose, or we are looking need more of this product; we need less. assassination was not the beginning of an history books. in all the wrong places. I am not going to do anything to add to attack on American governance, federal Though I was a little too young to have Alcohol is a wonderful product – out- this needless carnage.” employees, including the military, were voted for JFK (the voting age was 21 back side the body. As a toxin, it quickly kills Governor Rick Scott, please veto the sent home. then), I was no fan of his liberal policies, bacteria on the hands. Thus it makes a Hard Liquor in Grocery Stores Bill. The party that our unit officers had and like many — perhaps most — mem- very effective sanitizer. Polk County Commissioners, please planned at Fort Belvoir, Va., that night bers of the armed forces, blamed his As a beverage, alcohol is still toxic. protect us from more alcohol. — by coincidence, it was the fifth month last-minute cancellation of air support for Every ounce has to be detoxified by the Some believe that alcohol contributes anniversary of Mary’s and my marriage — liver. The liver can handle only a small to improved health. Please listen closely the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba to have amount at a time. Once the limit is to the Center of Disease Control: “No was cancelled. been the cause of one of America’s greatest reached, the body uses every available one should begin drinking or drink Mary and I watched on TV from our military embarrassments. avenue to eliminate the toxin. A petite more frequently based on potential second floor walk-up apartment in But overriding both of these issues female can become intoxicated with Southeast Washington as Air Force One ALCOHOL| 5 landed at nearby Andrews Air Force Base. FRISBIE | 5 We welcome your letters Letters are welcome on virtually any subject, but we do have some rules. Please keep them to less than 250 words. Letters will be edited to length as well as grammar and spelling. All letters must be signed with full name — not initials. An address and telephone number must be included. The phone number and address are not for publication, but must be provided. The Letters to the Editor section is designed as a public forum for community discourse and the opinions and statements made in letters are solely those of the individual writers. Readers can send letters and column submissions to [email protected] or mail them to 99 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 5 Cypress Gardens: Picture perfect by design Dick Pope was a master promoter. As he and Julie designed the Gardens, he devel- oped a plan to make every path beautiful Bob Gernert and photogenic from every angle. Each plant, flower and tree that was added was Beneath the placed in position after Pope had viewed the location through a camera viewfinder. Chinaberry Tree Composition, color, beauty and lighting Bob Gernert is a student of Winter were important considerations for each Haven history and founded the pathway. Working with his good friend and Museum of Winter Haven History. legendary photographer, Bob Dahlgren, Cypress Gardens was planned to photographic perfection. pier was built in the ski show area and Photography had been an important it, too, was manned by a professional The Photo Pier was equipped with camera part of Dick Pope’s life since the time he photographer who would tell the audience settings displayed (upper left) to help guests attended Winter Haven High School. He what camera settings to use and the take the best photographs. knew that the success of Cypress Gardens precise moment to “snap” their photos. In would grow as visitors successfully took fact, in the day the ski performance passed lots of photographs. Pope was called “the beautiful photographs and displayed the photo pier from one direction in the King of Queens.” them to their friends back home. He morning and the other direction in the Throughout the park’s management wanted their memories of the Gardens to afternoon ... just to ensure proper lighting. under Mr. Pope, he used complimentary be complemented by their photographs. At one time there was more Kodak film photos of Cypress Gardens to promote the In the beginning, the Gardens kept an sold at Cypress Gardens than any other park throughout the country. Traveling to PHOTOS PROVIDED employee with a light meter in hand to location in the country! (And now we say, Florida through the south during the 1950s assist visitors throughout the park. The “Film?”) The Cypress Garden’s Ski Team was Dick Pope’s and ‘60s it was rare to enter a restaurant traveling “billboard” for the park. Pope is individual helped people set up shots with Dick Pope and his staff took many of the that didn’t display at least one photo of their cameras ... or the ones the Gardens pre-opening and early Gardens photo- shown here with his skiers coming from “Florida Cypress Gardens.” behind. . loaned out at no cost. graphs. He went so far as to send them out Pope used his ski show professionals In the early days, a sign located near the in gardenia-scented packages. It was not as his portable advertisement for the Bert Lacey and other early promotional Garden’s entrance told guests the proper unusual for more than 40,000 photographs Gardens. Garden’s skiers performed materials. light setting and shutter speed to get the to be distributed in each of the early years. all over the U.S. and around the world On Saturday, May 27, the Museum best photographs. As the years passed, Several of the earliest linen postcards fea- dazzling audiences with daring stunts and of Winter Haven History will present park guides would instruct visitors regard- ture a photography credit to Pope. An early graceful skiing. With each performance the “Milestones in Winter Haven History,” a ing the best time of day to take certain publicity favorite was the “Crowning of the message was always clear: “If you enjoyed photographic walk through major events in shots in certain locations. Queens.” Royalty reigned from Citrus to this performance you need to come to our history. The program will begin at 10:30 Other park features such as the electric Watermelon and Rose to Gardenia. In one Cypress Gardens and see what we can a.m. There is no charge. The museum is boats (invented by Malcolm Pope) and week, nine different queens were crowned. really do!” open from 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays through later, the ski show, expanded the oppor- They were always attractive Gardens Information sources: Cypress Garden’s May 27. A special museum tour is offered tunities for photography. A special photo employees ... and the visitors always took 60th Anniversary brochure compiled by each Saturday at 10 a.m. May is Bicycle Safety Month According to Safe Kids Worldwide, only be enough space to fit one or two the helmet and bike. more children 5 to 14 are seen in of your child’s fingers between the strap Bicyclists can further protect them- emergency rooms for injuries related Grady Judd and the chin. selves by obeying the rules of the road, to biking than any other sport. Properly FINAL TEST: Shake your head vigor- which means they have to obey all fitted helmets can reduce the risk of Polk County Sheriff ously. If the helmet moves when you traffic signals. Because bicycles are head injuries by at least 45 percent – shake it, you need to tighten the straps considered vehicles, bicyclists have the yet fewer than half of children 14 and or get a smaller helmet. same rights and duties as any other younger usually wear a bike helmet. Additionally, no bicycle may be used driver. The law in all 50 states requires Florida State Statute 316.2065 establish- to carry more persons at one time than bicyclists to ride with the flow of traffic es that a bicyclist, who is younger than the number for which it is designed or when on the roadway. 16 years of age, must wear a properly equipped. Be sure to keep at least one Bicyclists should know all hand fitted helmet and fasten it securely hand on the handlebars at all times and signals in order to let motorists know upon their head by a strap. indications, then place the helmet on do not use electronic devices while rid- if they are turning or stopping. Some Buying a bike helmet is not enough. your head. ing, such as cellphones, earphones, etc. roads have lanes specially designed for Parents often admit even when there EYES: The helmet should sit low on Ensure the brakes are in good working bicycles and we strongly encourage the is a helmet in the house the child does your forehead – your child should only condition before the ride begins. If use of these lanes. not always wear it. Therefore, it is up to be able to place one or two fingers riding at dawn or dusk, mount a red re- There is only one road and it is up us to ensure our children wear a bike horizontally above their eyebrow. flector on the back of the bicycle and a to bicyclists and motorist to treat each helmet every time they ride and that EARS: With the helmet buckled, the white light in the front. It is also a good other with care and respect. Obeying it is properly fitted. Take the bicycle straps should form a “V” around the idea to wear bright colored clothing, so the law is the foundation for this helmet fit test: earlobes. consider wearing a reflective safety vest respect. Locate the front and back MOUTH: When buckled, there should or putting retro-reflective trim tape on Be safe and enjoy the ride.

citizens to be first responders, medical juice, as in “new wine,” or 3) alcohol as someone to stumble.” We know that ALCOHOL providers, morgue attendants, etc. And in “old wine.” The Bible warns against Jesus didn’t sin. we need taxpayers to cover the cost of strong drink. Beer is classified as a Some churches use alcohol in their FROM PAGE 4 the carnage. strong drink because of its concentra- communion. For some, this is prob- Alcohol as a beverage has a long tion of alcohol. Proverbs 20 and 21 use lematic for three reasons. (1) Christ’s history of being a burden to society. the word “beer” in the place of “strong body and blood were pure. Grape juice alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm) For most of Florida’s history citizens drink” in several versions. Proverbs 31 is pure. Alcohol is a toxin and therefore Some who promote alcohol try to understood alcohol can cause great states that kings and princes (legisla- an unacceptable symbol for our Lord’s reason that an individual who has had havoc in marriage, family, and society. tors) should not crave beer. blood. (2) For a recovering alcoholic, too much to drink should just be ra- They had many justifiable reasons to “Take a little wine for your stomach’s this can be a time of “falling off the tional and make responsible decisions. totally restrict beverage alcohol. Today, sake.” “New wine,” that is grape juice, wagon.” (3) Some church leaders But the first area that alcohol impacts looking at the number of deaths, broken can be soothing and healing. “Old have become addicted with frequent is the part of the brain that controls marriages, and broken lives, we have wine,” that is alcohol, would be an exposure. reason, inhibitions, and judgment. more reasons to not add more alcohol. unhealthy choice. Is our purpose to be our broth- Intoxication does not have a history of The Bible has often been used to Jesus turned water into wine. If it was er’s keeper? Love says “yes!” See I making rational decisions. send a mixed message about alcohol. grape juice, the best had been saved Sobriety is always needed to main- Corinthians 13. So what does the Bible say about to the last. If it was alcohol, this would VIRGIL ULLOM, DDS tain freedom. We need to be constantly alcohol? The word “wine” can refer to have violated the Biblical principle of alert! For every person who is intox- 1) grapes as in “winepress,” or 2) grape not doing “anything that could cause Babson Park icated, we need many responsible

Though the circumstances are less was elected to lead. Stephen Colbert has done something FRISBIE traumatic, I have a similar reaction to the Scorn for his policies, his judgment, few would have believed possible. He has crude, vulgar rant directed at the incum- even his ego, go with the job. Eventually made Donald Trump, by comparison, FROM PAGE 4 bent president by a late night TV host a he may come to understand that. look like someone with at least a modi- couple of weeks ago. But when a TV comedian uses the pub- cum of class. was the fact that as a lieutenant in the History will judge Donald Trump one of lic airways to launch into an on-air tirade Who would have believed it? United States Army, the president was my the nation’s least popular presidents — until using language that has been bleeped ——— commander-in-chief, and as an American and unless he masters a few social graces out in countless rebroadcasts, and even (S. L. Frisbie is retired. For the first time citizen, he was the head of the nation and a little political finesse, which at this his network employers find no cause in more than 50 years, he has declined to to whose flag I pledged allegiance on a time seems unlikely — but like his other to discipline him, America’s patience say for whom he voted in the last presiden- regular basis. unpopular forebears, he is, in fact, president with incivility should be stretched to the tial election. He found little merit in either And as such, I resented the fact that of the United States, all 50 of them. breaking point. candidate. Had Hillary Clinton won and somebody had taken it on himself to kill The man in the office may not be I have been accused of many things been slandered in similar terms by a talk him. Nobody had that right. Even in a free deserving of adulation, but the office he over the years, but prudery was never show host, his reaction would have been society, disapproval has its limits. holds merits the respect of the nation he among them. Still, there has to be a limit. the same.) Page 6 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Residents fondly remember Dovel By CHARLES A. BAKER III three decades. Dovel published copy of a 1994 CORRESPONDENT promised to donate the report about Dovel’s artifacts found around Fort Meade dig site and FORT MEADE – Fort Meade to the city the two met to discuss Friends of Florida ar- once there was a safe having the artifacts chaeologist Dwight Dovel place to display them. found around the public are in mourning after he There is not adequate park to be placed on passed away May 11. space in the current permanent exhibit. The Florida Historical museum and there are On Saturday Clover Recovery co-founder plans to build a new one said the development and his team dug up in the coming years. project to expand the hundreds of historic U.S. Florida Historical Fort Meade Outdoor military artifacts around Recovery archaeologist Recreation Area is Fort Meade over the past Daniel Sharits said there moving forward but still two decades. will be a celebration two or three years away To protect early settlers of Dovel’s life in June from construction. from Indians in the mid but there are no formal “I intend to propose 1850s, a line of U.S Army funeral services planned naming the museum for forts was built south of to date. Dwight,” Clover said. what is now Fort Meade. “The artifacts from Dovel dug up Florida Army troops fought two Fort Meade were col- history in more than wars with the Seminole lected with the intent of two dozen other sites Indians around Fort donating to the city and across the state. His PHOTO BY CHARLES A. BAKER III Meade, dropping all with the plans to build a impact was not just Fort Meade Mayor Barbara Manley talks with Dwight Dovel, second from left, during an kinds of things along the new museum in the next local. April 2015 exhibit. Glenn Clover, far right, listens. way. Dovel and his team several years,” Sharits “Dwight was the also recovered items said. “The plan to donate mastermind and driving In addition to archae- being another com- this man. His impact on dropped around Fort the artifacts is still on force behind most of ology, Dovel was also mander for the unit and the hobby has reached Meade during the Civil track.” our projects to date, as popular in the Civil War knew Dovel well. far and wide.” War Battle of Bowlegs Glenn Clover met well as the foundational reenactment commu- “For all of these years Dovel was the overall Creek. Artifacts included Dwight Dovel around reason for us getting our nity. Dovel created the his friendship has been commander of the Fort buttons, rank insignia, 2010 when he was start in archaeological 75th Ohio Volunteer that of a father, uncle, Meade re-enactment tools, bullets and even a tasked with surveying recovery,” Sharits said. Infantry in 1993 and brother and mentor event in November 2016. bayonet. land around Fort Meade “Florida has lost one of five times since then, to those close to him,” The event has grown During an April 2015 Outdoor Recreation its foremost historians Dovel helped organize Munson said. “As a over the years and eight exhibit at Fort Meade Area for a project to and we have lost our the Battle of Bowlegs Vietnam veteran, Dwight union companies from Historical Society and expand the public park mentor, our hero and Creek re-enactments was also one of our true across Florida and Museum, Dovel said he to include a museum, our dear friend.” at Fort Meade Outdoor heroes. On the Civil War multiple confederate documented hundreds of equestrian center, His mentors promised Recreation Area. re-enactment battle- volunteer units also en- historic Florida dig sites hotel and campgrounds. to carry on Dovel’s Chuck Munson of field, there was no field tertained and educated as a hobby for more than Clover said he found a mission. Umatilla has a roll of commander equal to those in attendance. Drought may mean water limits on the way

Because of the drought manager to the staff Ryan, who has a public ranch in east Lakeland Hispanic Service lodge at 3601 State Road and recent spikes in in June when former administration degree from making enriched offered at 60 E. in Lake Wales. For outdoor watering, Polk Dundee Town Manager from the University soil from human biosolid questions, call Settle at County Utilities is cur- Ryan Taylor takes over of Central Florida and waste, rotting foods and Hope Presbyterian 863-528-8514. rently not able to produce the regional water an associate degree other materials. Reports Church reclaimed water fast cooperative and takes from Polk Community indicated the county Nueva Esperanza Friday Fest enough to meet demand a hands-on approach College. He started his withdrew its request for (New Hope) a Spanish this week in the Southwest Region for transportation and career in public service the injunction hearing speaking church of the county. economic development in the city of Davenport last week based on the service will be held at Bartow’s next monthly It is requesting from the projects. where he worked his way special magistrate’s rul- 11 a.m. every Sunday Friday Fest is scheduled nearly 3,400 customers County Manager Jim up through the ranks ing in the ranch’s favor. in McGrath Hall on from 6-9 p.m. along East in this service area do Freeman announced to city manager. He County Attorney the Campus of Hope Main Street and Central what they can to conserve last week that he had left Davenport in 2007 Michael Craig would Presbyterian Church in Avenue in downtown reclaimed water to allow chosen Taylor to join his and has been serving not discuss the matter, Winter Haven. Bartow. for storage recovery. other deputies, Lea Ann as the Town Manager saying he would not This “Church within a This street party If the drought continues Thomas, Bill Beasley of Dundee for the past discuss ongoing litiga- Church” will be conduct- sponsored by Sackett and storage recovery and Joe Halman, and four years. He was paid tion. He did say earlier ed entirely in Spanish MotorSports will feature efforts are not effective, the Board of County $79,000 annually by the however that the injunc- and is led by the Rev. live music by Kat & the the county may have to go Commissioners was town which will jump tion issues were different Manuel Fernandez. Dawgs as well as activ- to a modified reclaimed expected to bless his to $110,000 a year when from the code violations English speaking ser- ities for the children. water operational sched- selection from eight he moves to the county addressed by the special vices will still be held at Food and drink will be ule of one day a week finalists yesterday. This payroll in June. magistrate. the traditional 9:30 a.m. available for purchase watering, to increase paper’s deadline was While the ranch Sunday and 6:30 p.m. from vendors on the storage recovery. before commissioners County loses to could claim victory so Thursday contemporary street and from the Customers affected voted at their regular BS in round one far, its fate is still up in services. downtown restaurants. were notified by AlertPolk, meeting. the air because it has There will also be an the county’s emergency According to Freeman, Polk County may have requested a level four open car cruise-in. notification system. The Taylor “will oversee lost round one of its review by county code Moose Lodge reclaimed water area is strategic projects, with battle with BS Ranch and enforcement officials. meeting Uptown Yard Sale west of U.S. 98 to County a specific focus on Farm over noxious fumes The level four review The Moose Lodge in & Flea Market Line Road, and south those projects requiring emanating from the calls for public hearings, Lake Wales is looking for Saturday of County Road 540A. intergovernmental soil-making plant, but as well as approvals from members and is plan- Subdivisions affected coordination. it still has at least two the county planning ning a party to show Bartow’s monthly include Christina, Hallam “He has already more rounds to go. commission and county what they are about. Uptown Yard Sale & Flea Preserve and Imperial demonstrated effective The ranch took round commission board, ac- That is from 2-5 p.m. Market is scheduled Lakes. Many commercial leadership on a strategic one when a special cording to county code Sunday, May 21 at the from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Utilities customers have countywide project magistrate said the enforcement officials. Moose Lodge, said Joe Saturday, May 20, along already been asked to through his work coor- county hadn’t proven Meanwhile, Special Settle. the 300 block of East restrict their reclaimed dinating the collective that noxious odors were Magistrate Nicholas There will be ham- Main Street in down- water use. efforts of city managers sourced solely at the Troiano of Tampa, told burgers, hot dogs and town Bartow. This does not affect during the formation of manufacturing plant the county last week Moose Lodge members Vendors will be drinking water. the Polk Regional water on Longhorn Avenue in it “ … finds that it is will talk about Moose charged a $10 fee, and Cooperative,” Freeman Lakeland. incongruous that the Haven and Moose no preregistration is County hires said. Still up in the air county has worked with Heart, two programs necessary. Taylor deputy Taylor also was rec- late last week was the the ranch for years to get where they help young For further informa- county manager ognized last year by the continuation of a Circuit this (land) use approved, and elderly people tion call Irene at 863- Ridge League of Cities Court hearing where the and even blessed the use, who can’t take care of 646-0644 or the Main Polk County’s adding for his work on that county has asked for an that now they so quickly themselves. Street Bartow office at another deputy county project. injunction to stop the want to shut it down. The meeting is at the 863-519-0508. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 7 WINTER HAVEN NEWS Winter Haven women recognized By JAMES COULTER to nearly 150 attendees CORRESPONDENT during the annual “She Knows Where She’s Going” WINTER HAVEN – As an luncheon and fundraiser elementary school-aged for Girls Inc. girl, Victoria Reiter was This private, non-profit timid, self-conscious, and organization, affiliated anxious to even show her with United Way, accord- own smile. ing to its press release, Now, as a grown “inspires all girls to be woman, Reiter stands with strong, smart and bold,” Victoria Reitner, former Girls boldness and confidence, providing educational Inc. Member, told how she unafraid to be her true programs that “focus on transformed from a timid self. science, math, technology, young girl to a strong inde- Her transformation health and sexuality, pendent woman through her was made through her economic and financial enrollment in Girls Inc. enrollment in Girls literacy, sports skills, lead- Inc. of Winter Haven, a ership and media literacy kindness” by serving as non-profit organization for girls in grades K-12 in role models, and as such, that inspires young girls West Polk County.” feels the first step is to to grow up into strong, Aside from allowing model our own behavior independent women. local women to donate for them to emulate. Girls Inc. allowed her to to the organization by The Virginia Snively PHOTOS BY JAMES COULTER graduate from high school enjoying a luncheon, the Award was presented and attend college, the fundraiser also honored to Ashlee Wright, the The 2017 Winners, from left, Ashlee Wright (Virginia Snively), Jane McGinnis (Ralph & Alice first two years of which four extraordinary women founder/CEO of New Thompson), Maria George (George Jenkins), Linda Haskins (Julie Pope). were facilitated through with awards. Beginning High School a scholarship provided The George Jenkins in Winter Haven, which through the organization. Award was presented to helps provide education “Had my mother not Marianne George, a Polk for at-risk students and to made the decision to State College professional 1,000 students overall. enroll me in Girls Inc. who also serves through The proud daughter of when she did, then the the Junior League of educators, Wright grew up trajectory of my life would Winter Haven, Girl Scouts, with a desire to change have likely led to a path and Jewett School of the the world through educa- of limitation and struggle Art, with the overall goal tion, and her work in her and hardship,” Reiter said. of helping provide quality community has allowed “I have since been on a education. her to do just that. path that has led to open “We are planting the “It is not where you doors, unique experi- seeds now so our children start in Winter Haven but ences, and influential know the importance of where you finish, and I am relationships that I will giving back and working just beginning,” she said. never forget and always as volunteers,” she said of The Ralph And Alice cherish.” herself and her fellow PSC Thompson Award Upon graduating col- staff members, working at was presented to Jane lege, she utilized the skills what she considers to be McGinnis, the president she gained through higher “a gem in our county.” of the Woman’s Club of education and Girls Inc. The Julie Pope Award Winter Haven. to take authority over her was awarded to Linda A strong literary advo- own decisions and follow Haskins, who’s long and cate, she has volunteered her chosen career path. fruitful career through the through the Friends of the Wanting to motivate Red Cross has allowed her Library and other library young girls the same way to save and aid many lives programs, as well as many she was motivated, she during times of need. art organizations such as began working part-time She helped put together the Theatre Winter Haven. as a program instructor. a disaster relief program She believes the key to “I am proud to be a for local mobile homes, giving back is to discover product of this outstand- and she was awarded inner peace and believe ing program, and I know the Orlando Police in yourself, even if you do what impact I am able to Department award for not have a special talent of have on this world will be her response to the Pulse your own. due in part to the impact night club shooting. “The simplest acts of Girls, Inc. had on me,” she She believes young kindness have the most said. women have the potential important meaning,” she Reiter shared her story to spread an “epidemic of said. adno=3454451 adno=3444650 Page 8 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 WINTER HAVEN NEWS County to give city extra $1 million Money for Chain of Lakes Complex will cover Magic rent By CATHY PALMER courts at its disposal house that will hold the have the bonds locked pay for the master to hand over the $11 CORRESPONDENT at all times, as well as basketball courts, office in by September to planning that includes million over time, 3,000 square feet of space, a workout room, a satisfy the Magic. not only locating the rather than a lump BARTOW – Polk office, locker room and second floor track circuit Under the deal, the field house just south sum. The money will County was expected to medical space, will be and concession stands. Magic will bring its farm of the existing Chain of be used to help pay off OK handing over anoth- rent-free, the county has According to earlier club to Winter Haven Lakes buildings, but will the bonds that will be er $1 million to the city agreed to use tourism reports, even with the to practice, but play also cover the planning issued to actually build of Winter Haven for the money to foot the bill county’s donation of $11 its home games at the of entrance and exit the entire complex Chain of Lakes Complex to give the NBA minor million in tourism tax Lakeland Center. points, parking facility update. new field house, bring- league team a toe hold receipts, the city’s still The money will come locations and a host Future plans dis- ing its total contribution in the city. going to have to raise from what some call the of other preliminary cussed earlier by the to the plan to about $11 Under the proposal taxes to foot the bill for “bed tax,” a tax levied activities needed before city commission may million. the city and county have the bonds. on hotels and other the project actually gets later be expanded to Because the city’s deal agreed to, the city will is- The county agreed to tourism-centric facili- underway. include the addition with the Orlando Magic sue bonds to pay the $30 front the extra million ties countywide. The issue before the of retail space and a is to have two of the million or so to build the to get the ball rolling The county’s extra county commission was river-walk type of park proposed six basketball 86,000-square-foot field because the city has to million will also help to sign the agreement system. Winter Haven Police Youth being sought Applications are now four sessions. sessions. Communication request an application applicant must not being accepted for The sessions are Members of the Center, Central County at 863-291-5858, ext. have a criminal history. area youth ages 14-21 scheduled June 15, Youth Council will ex- Jail, the Courthouse, 2351. Applications can Applications must be to participate in the June 22, July 13 and perience hands-on ac- The Kenneth C. also be obtained at the submitted no later than Winter Haven Police July 20. Each will be tivities over the course Thompson Public Department’s web site May 26 to be consid- Youth Leadership from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. with of the four weeks while Safety Institute at at www.WinterHavenPD. ered for the upcoming Council. The Youth lunch being provided gaining a better under- Polk State College and com and clicking the council that will begin Council will consist of for the members. standing of the field also experience sce- link on the homepage in on Tuesday, June 15. A about 15 members who Council members will of Law Enforcement. nario-based activities the news section. complete schedule of will serve voluntarily receive a Youth Council Council members with members of the The department will activities will be sent and meet with Chief shirt along with a will participate in Winter Haven Police screen the applicant when the accepted Charlie Bird and agency graduation ceremony tours at the Polk Department. through their school Youth Council members members for a total of following the four County Emergency Those interested can principal and the are notified. adno=3453106 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 9 CONSTRUCTION THIS WEEK … On U.S. 17 (6th Use caution and be signals and constructing signs and surveying. improvements, signal Drive to Cypress Gardens Street NW) at Avenue prepared to merge. crossing ramps and cross Watch for temporary pole and equipment up- Road watch for intermit- D NW in Winter Haven Expect periodic sidewalks at the intersection. sidewalk closures and grades, sidewalk instal- tent southbound lane watch for nighttime/ walk closures at the … On U.S. 17 (6th pedestrian detours as lation and repair, curb closures as crews repair overnight lane closures intersection and follow Street SW) from Avenue crews begin clearing. and gutter changes and sidewalks, ADA mats, from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. posted detours. Work G SW to Avenue A SW Work on this project driveway modifications. curb and gutter. Use as crews work on final on this project includes in Winter Haven crews includes milling and … On Cypress Gardens caution and be prepared items and site cleanup. upgrading pedestrian are placing construction resurfacing, drainage Boulevard from Overlook to merge.

adno=3453433 Page 10 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Hurricane season may be tame, but warning issued By JAMES COULTER Management Service, to CORRESPONDENT private businesses such HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS TIPS as State Farm and Lowes. Create and maintain a Hurricane Preparedness Kit. Collect essential AUBURNDALE – While Making special guest items such as a flashlight, water bottles, batteries, first aid kit, and the upcoming hurricane appearances and hosting canned food. Be sure to have these items stocked long before any hurri- season is not expected a special experts panel cane notification. Do not wait until the last minute before a hurricane to be severe, it always included meteorologists hits because shelves may be empty. pays to be prepared for a Juli Marquez from Bay Protect windows and other openings. Before a hurricane, either hurricane. News 9, Jim Weber from tape or board up windows to ensure that they do not break during the Polk County residents Fox 13 News, and Ian storm. Always keep tape or plywood handy in case such a need arises. were able to learn about Oliver of News Channel Clear your yard and surrounding property of debris that could be kicked hurricane preparedness 8. up by high winds. during the annual All three meteorolo- Keep a portable battery-powered radio. If the electricity goes out. Hurricane Expo in gists explained the effort Invest in a generator. To maintain electricity in case of a power Auburndale Saturday. they put forth in their outage, consider investing in a gas-powered generator. Also keep a The Tropical jobs to accurately predict portable tank of gasoline available, and be sure to have it filled long Meteorology Project at the weather, especially before the hurricane hits. Colorado State University extreme weather such as PHOTOS BY JAMES COULTER Heed evacuation warnings. Though rare in Polk County, evacuation released their annual hurricanes, and offered orders should always be followed. forecast predicting that guests advice on how to More than a dozen vendors, ranging from government services to Never go outside. While the current age of social media may make the upcoming hurricane properly react to their private businesses, offered advice on hurricane preparedness. it tempting to go outside and “live stream” the extreme weather and season will have “slightly forecasts. its effects, under no circumstances should you ever be outside during a below-average activity,” While Polk County Sines, Lowes Assistant relatively the same with hurricane, as the high winds and rain could prove dangerous. with the peak of the residents do not have to Store Manager. roughly 200 attendees. season experiencing worry about the severity Before a hurricane, one “I think that will be “either weak or moderate of storm surges as do of the products that are the norm for this type El Nino conditions.” coastal residents, hurri- often sought at his store, of event until there is “We anticipate a canes and other tropical aside from generators, an actual big hurricane below-average probabil- storms still affect them is plywood to board up season again,” said Cody ity for major hurricanes with evacuees coming in windows, he explained. McGee, Auburndale making landfall along the and through their county. “If you have windows Parks and Recreation United States coastline Most importantly, that get blown in, that Manager. “We’ve had a and in the Caribbean,” residents are advised to will allow other cata- dry spell of big name the report stated. remain alert for severe strophic failures in your storms hitting the state However, regardless of weather reports and home,” he said. “So make for a while, so I think the the forecast, the report not to rely solely on sure your openings are idea of getting over a 100 advised residents living forecasts, as weather can protected, make sure people is encouraging Hosting a special experts panels were meteorologists Juli along the Atlantic coast- change unexpectedly, everything around your to get the word out for Marquez from Bay News 9, Jim Weber from Fox 13 News, and Ian line, including Florida, Marquez explained. home is secure so it is something like hurricane Oliver of News Channel 8. to remain vigilant and “Though we know the not blowing around prepared, as even the ofﬁcial numbers, I always causing debris to be slightest landfall could remind people not to pay thrown against your lead to a hurricane. attention to the number house.” To ensure that Polk of storms predicted, but Also important is hav- County residents are to make sure that you ing your house properly ,Žƚ<ĞǇWŝĐĂƐƐŽ prepared, the Hurricane look at the forecast to insured, something that Expo is held annually see if there is anything to State Farm agent Larry with workshops, panels, watch and be aware of,” Walker explained to at- ^D'ŝƐůŽŽŬŝŶŐĨŽƌĂĨƵůůƚŝŵĞ'ƌĂƉŚŝĐĞƐŝŐŶĞƌĨŽƌŽƵƌ and vendors providing she explained. “It only tendees at his company’s instruction on hurricane takes one tropical storm booth, which managed ǁĞĞŬůǇĂŶĚŵŽŶƚŚůǇƉƌŽĚƵĐƚƐƉƌŝŶƚΘĚŝŐŝƚĂů͘dŚŝƐ ƉŽƐŝƚŝŽŶ ǁŝůů and tropical storm to make it a busy year for to spark the interest of ĂůƐŽ ĐƌĞĂƚĞĂĚƐĂŶĚŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ ĨŽƌ ƐĂůĞƐ Θ ŵĂƌŬĞƚŝŶŐĂŶĚ preparedness. us.” at least 100 prospects ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚĞƚŽĂůůĂƐƉĞĐƚƐŽĨŽƵƌĚĞƐŝŐŶŐƌŽǁƚŚ͘dŚŝƐŝƐ Ă The free event To instruct residents wanting to consider ĚĞĂĚůŝŶĞ ĚƌŝǀĞŶƉŽƐŝƚŝŽŶ͘dŚĞƌŝŐŚƚƉĞƌƐŽŶǁŝůůďĞĂŬĞǇ has been hosted at on how to better “hur- State Farm as a potential ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚŽƌͬĐŽůůĂďŽƌĂƚŽƌŽŶŽƵƌƚĞĂŵ͘ Auburndale for the past ricane-proof” their insurer. three years. Previously, it house, Lowes presented “Anyone who needs us had been hosted in other a demonstration and day and night, we can :ŽďZĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚƐ cities such as Haines offered advice from their help them,” he said. ^ƚƌŽŶŐŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞŽĨƚǇƉŽŐƌĂƉŚǇĂŶĚŝŵĂŐĞŵĂŶŝƉƵůĂƚŝŽŶ Overall, this year’s City, Winter Haven and booth. >ŽǀĞƐĚĞƐŝŐŶ Lakeland. Their most crucial event managed to draw This year’s event had advice was to secure in more vendors, though ďŝůŝƚǇƚŽ ĐŽůůĂďŽƌĂƚĞ more than a dozen openings such as win- the overall venue was >ŽŽŬŝŶŐƚŽ ŐƌŽǁĂŶĚŽďƐĞƐƐŝǀĞůǇŽƌŐĂŶŝǌĞĚ vendors, ranging from dows, as that is where downsized from the ϭͲϯǇĞĂƌƐƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂůĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞŽƌĐŽŵƉĂƌĂďůĞ government services, most of the damage from community center to the ŝŶƚĞƌŶƐŚŝƉĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ as the Auburndale and a hurricane will most civic center, and with Polk County Emergency likely occur, said Gary crowd sizes remaining ^ƚĂǇĂŚĞĂĚŽĨĐƵƌƌĞŶƚĚĞƐŝŐŶƉĂƌĂĚŝŐŵƐ ĞĂďůĞƚŽǁŽƌŬƵŶĚĞƌƚŝŐŚƚĚĞĂĚůŝŶĞƐǁŚŝůĞƌĞŵĂŝŶŝŶŐ ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂůĂŶĚƉŽƐŝƚŝǀĞ ĚŽďĞƌĞĂƚŝǀĞ^ƵŝƚĞ͗ /ŶͲĚĞƐŝŐŶͲ ǆƉĞƌƚ>ĞǀĞů WŚŽƚŽƐŚŽƉͲ ǆƉĞƌƚ>ĞǀĞů /ůůƵƐƚƌĂƚŽƌͲ ^ƚƌŽŶŐ<ŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ tĞďĚĞƐŝŐŶĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĂƉůƵƐ

ŵĂŝůǇŽƵƌƌĞƐƵŵĞ͕ĚĞƐŝŐŶƐĂŵƉůĞƐͬůŝŶŬƐ͕ĂŶĚĐŽǀĞƌůĞƚƚĞƌƚŽ ŚƌŝƐ^ĞǆƐŽŶĐƐĞǆƐŽŶΛƐĐŵŐŝŶĐ͘ĐŽŵ adno=3449840 adno=3444935 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 11 adno=3454460 Page 12 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Local lawmakers speak about pot Special session to make medical marijuana law coming By JEFF ROSLOW [email protected]

HAINES CITY – Despite the fact 71 percent of the voters approved a constitutional amendment for medical marijuana the state Legislature failed to come out with a way to implement it and plans a special session to do so. The feelings of local legislators who gathered in Haines City Thursday for the Legislative Wrap-Up Breakfast, had PHOTOS BY JEFF ROSLOW something to do with the Most of Polk County legislative delegation were on hand for the wrap up breakfast on Thursday, atmosphere of Florida as May 11. The only one missing was Sen. Denise Grimsley. From left is Florida Sen. Kelli Stargel, and much as a way to make Florida Reps. Colleen Burton, Neil Combee, Sam Killebrew and Mike La Rosa the law fair. “It can be expected this Florida Rep. Sam Killebrew talks to the crowd at the Legilsative as Amendment 2, they could be a real problem Delegaton Wrap Up breakfast Thursday. On his left is Rep. Neil ironed out most of their of the family friendly Combee and Rep. Mike La Rosa on his right. differences in the waning brand,” Rep. Colleen days of the session. Burton said. “It is clear those plans collapsed the 2017 legislative Two key sticking points to the Legislature to early in the final week of session. That included – the number of licensed meet the need of voters, the session, with House high-powered lobbyists marijuana operators though.” and Senate negotia- representing seven med- and how many retail With Florida known tors unable to reach a ical-marijuana operators locations they should for its public amusement compromise. Among already licensed to do run – ultimately proved a parks, citrus and beach- the key differences was business in Florida after breach too big to seal. es, there is a medical the Senate’s support for lawmakers approved lim- The Senate wanted tourism, but the atmo- allowing slot machines ited medical-marijuana to limit the number sphere that exists now is at pari-mutuel facilities laws in 2014 and 2016. of dispensaries each important, she said. in eight counties where The passage sparked operator could open, “Our tourism is voters have approved the a “green rush” for while the House — which multi-generational,” she machines in referendums investors, growers and originally backed an Florida Rep. Neil Combee talks Thursday at the Legislative Dele- said, with the attraction – an issue opposed by ancillary business own- unlimited number of gation Wrap Up breakfast. To his right is Rep. Sam Killebrew. hitting all generations in the House, which wanted ers eager to capitalize storefronts — preferred families. to take a more status-quo on what could be one of a more liberal approach of 100 dispensaries for session, she feels they are Rep. Mike La Rosa, approach to gambling. the largest pot markets that would have, at least each license holder. close to coming up with who helped sponsor The Legislature in the country, with temporarily, favored the “I guess we need this a way to carry out this a gaming bill, also dismissed for the year on an estimated 500,000 current license-holders. special session,” said Rep. new law. expressed the potential May 5 without negoti- patients, according to the A plan approved by Neil Combee, who said he “We were very close harm to Florida’s family ating a way to carry out Department of Health, in the Senate would have wasn’t sure what exactly but we didn’t get it over friendly atmosphere, Amendment 2 and finger its first year. required 10 new medical was reported to the people the finish line,” she said. not only with medical pointing was abound The issue pitted the marijuana licenses by because he has spending “We need to deal with marijuana but also with in Tallahassee as the already-established oper- the fall, along with a most of the week getting this. As legislators this is gambling. session got out. ators against businesses cap of 10 dispensaries, his life in Polk County in our responsibility.” In that, an incentive Senate President Joe in and out of Florida which would increase as order after spending 60 Burton assured Polk to try to reach a new Negron put the onus on seeking to break up what the number of eligible days in Tallahassee. County voters their gambling deal with the House for the bill’s critics characterized as patients in a statewide “I certainly support the lawmakers would do the the Seminole Tribe demise. House Speaker an established “cartel.” database increased. House version and have no best can on helping them of Florida, the House Richard Corcoran While GOP leaders in Late Friday, May 5, limit,” he said. “Ultimately as well as doing what is and Senate worked on rejected it. the House and Senate the House approved a it will lower the price and best of the state. plans that could have The medical marijuana began far apart on how to measure that would have that is our interest.” “As bad as I hate to go revamped the state’s issue led to a major lob- approach the implemen- required 10 new licenses Sen. Kelli Stargel said back, I guess we will,” gambling industry. But bying battle throughout tation of what was known by July 2018, with a limit though there is a special Combee said. adno=3449839 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 13 LAKE WALES NEWS Carillon on tape $200,000 museum grant to digitize Bok concerts By JAMES COULTER archiving and preserva- heritage for present and do, and not allow to fall CORRESPONDENT tion programs.” future generations,” he by the wayside.” “This grant is mon- said. “The compelling The recordings will be LAKE WALES – For 88 umental in our efforts and far-reaching endeav- packaged and shipped years, Bok Tower’s clarion to preserve the historic ors represented by our this summer to a media bells have been peeling recordings made by our 2017 grantees reflect a preservation company their mellifluous melo- carillonneurs and guest commitment to issues in Pennsylvania, who dies over Mountain Lake musicians,” David Price, that Recording Academy will utilize their special and the surrounding Bok Tower Gardens and Grammy Museum sound engineering Lake Wales landscape. President, said. “We are members are passion- equipment to digitize the Now their music will grateful for the gener- ate about: our goal to recordings. be preserved for future osity of the Grammy recognize and sustain the Bok Tower had previ- generations thanks to a Museum Grant Program value of music in all of ously sent 600 recordings generous grant provided and thank them for their our lives.” to the same company to by the Grammy Museum vision and efforts in the Bok Tower has more have them digitized. Grant Program. preservation of historic than 16,000 recordings of The digitization pro- Bok Tower Gardens music.” its clarion performances cess will not only ensure received a $200,000 “The Recording within its private library, that these recordings are grant from the Grammy Academy is proud to spanning many decades historically preserved for Museum Grant Program support our Grammy from the 1950s to 1990s. future generations, but to help digitize more Museum Grant Program As many of these also made more easily than 1,600 reel-to-reel and its important work,” recordings are on reel-to- accessible and search- audio recordings of their added Neil Portnow, reel cassette tape, which able, Fogel explained. carillon performances. President/CEO of The is an extremely delicate Once digitized, sound They were one of 14 Recording Academy and and fragile format, these clips of these recordings recipients in the United Chair of the Grammy recordings are extremely will be made available on States to receive this Museum Board. rare. the Bok Tower Gardens grant, which is provided “To date, we have “They disintegrate over web site. Anyone who is to institutions across the awarded more than $7 time, so it is important to interested in hearing the country, according to the million to nearly 400 ini- get them digitized before full recording would then official press release, “to tiatives that explore the we lose the recording on be able to request and set help facilitate a range intersection of music and there,” said Jamie Fogel, up a visit to the private PHOTO PROVIDED of research on a variety science for the benefit of Collection Manager at library. Geert D’hollander plays the carillon at Bok Tower Gardens. With of subjects, as well as the general public, and Bok Tower Gardens. “It is For information, visit the help of a $200,000 grant the concerts he leads and others support a number of safeguard our musical something we wanted to boktowergardens.org. performed earlier will be digitized.

WE’RE PUTTING SCIENCE TO WORK TODAY Every day, Mosaic puts science to work right here in our community. By applying innovative FOR A BETTER techniques, we’re improving processes and TOMORROW. limiting our impact on the environment. We’re reducing freshwater consumption through cogeneration and planting hundreds of thousands of trees each year. This assures everyone has clean water to drink and fresh air to breathe. Josh, an environmental services chemist at Mosaic’s South Pierce processing lab, works to ensure that water quality across Mosaic’s operations meets strict environmental standards.

To learn more about Mosaic’s leadership in reclamation ecology, visit Science.MosaicCo.com.

adno=3444718 Page 14 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 LAKE WALES NEWS Mayor Fultz wins Citizen of the Year

By JAMES COULTER clothing, and ministering CORRESPONDENT to people on the street. He and his family later LAKE WALES – Gene sold their “dream home” Fultz may serve as the in Orlando to move to mayor of Lake Wales, as Lake Wales, where he has well as on several city worked as an educator and county boards, but and assisted in a local he considers himself youth ministry. to be more than a Aside from serving as politician. the mayor for eight years “I am not a politician,” and counting, Fultz has Fultz said. “I am a public also served on other city servant. I care about the and county organiza- people in my city.” tions, including the Lake David Price of Bok Tower His service within the Wales Charter School Gardens won the Lake Wales community has been Board, Polk County Chamber Community Leader- exemplified, not only Ministerial Association, ship Award. through his many terms Economic Development in office, but also as an Council, Ridge League of he said. “If I run for any educator, pastor, volun- Cities, Florida League of office, no one can expose teer, and retired veteran. Cities, Black Caucus, Polk anything that I haven’t As such, no other per- County Transportation, exposed myself.” PHOTOS BY CHARLES A. BAKER III son was more deserving and Polk Regional Water Other individuals and Three-time Lake Wales Mayor Gene Fultz was named 2017 Citizen of the Year during the Lake to win the honorable title Cooperation. businesses within the Wales Chamber of Commerce Second Annual Awards Gala Thursday night at the Lake Ashton of Lake Wales Citizen of While Fultz serves as a Lake Wales community Clubhouse Ballroom. the Year. politician, he maintains a were honored that Having recently been level of integrity, honesty, evening with their own provides to veterans expansion including the event. elected for his third term humility, and transpar- awards. within the city and in children’s garden and Village Kitchen Shop as Lake Wales Mayor, ency that is often found American Legion eastern Polk County discovery center. and Patton Tires were Fultz received his award lacking in many other Post 71 was named the through its new facility Jennifer Nanek, awarded with the Carl during the annual Lake politicians these days. Community Service along Scenic Highway. Special Projects Manager F. Durso Award for Wales Chamber of “There is nothing in Organization of the David Price, President City of Lake Wales, was Excellence in Business, Commerce Award Gala my closet that is hidden,” Year for the services it of Bok Tower Gardens, presented the Public while Mike & Lori last Thursday evening at was presented the Servant of the Year Draper of Draper’s Lake Ashton Clubhouse. Community Leadership Award for her service Furniture were awarded Fultz was present- Award for his work at the within the city, including the Lifetime Excellence ed the award by Vic gardens, especially with her supervision of the in Business Carl F. Durso Story, owner of Story the recent eight-acre annual Pioneer Days Award. Companies, and the recipient of last year’s Citizen of the Year Award, who went onto laud the mayor’s many services to the Lake Wales community. “(Fultz) can be summed up in four words: Service, service, service, service,” Story Bob and Diane Armington of Village Kitchen Shop accepted a said. “Gene has served Durso Award Thursday night. his family, he’s served his country, he’s served his community and he serves his Lord.” Born and raised in Arkansas, Fultz served Save $1,000 !LL9OUTH faithfully and honorably -ODELS)N in the Navy for four years 3TOCKÝ and later in the Army National Guard for 20 SportsmanSportsmman 570 UtilityUtili Uti ty years, during which time MSRPMSSRPRP $7,999 $7 999 SaleSSalle $6,9996,999 he served in Vietnam and completed two world tours. Upon leaving the military, he married his wife HighlifterHiggghlifter RanRangerger 1000 in 1968. Together they OnOn SaleSale Now!Now! had three children (two daughters and one son), Call Paige four grandchildren, and Ranger 1000 Single Cabs four great grandchildren. )VHF.BSLEPXO for Details! Fultz moved to Orlando in 1995, where '(#-/4/230/243'(#-/4/230/243 he established Greater 644t-BLF1MBDJE '- Grace Outreach Ministry, (863) 699-2453tHIDNPUPSTQPSUTDPN .POBNQNt5VF 8FE ̓'SJ̓BNQNt5IVBNQN a non-profit organization adno=3446328 4BUBNQN4VO$MPTFE committed to feeding, H 1 $Y GZD\ %URD )/ DUWRZ % P TFR VEE QQ\ 6R Z adno=3454453 adno=3444690 ZZ Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 15

POLK COUNTY PEOPLE Check out Transcendence at Polk Museum

Brenda Eggert Brader [email protected]

“Trancendence: The Polk County High School Art Exhibition” is on display at the Polk County Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St. in Lakeland, May 17-21. Artwork by students in ninth-grade to seniors from Polk County School District high schools. These creative art works may be viewed 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Police chief visits PHOTOS PROVIDED Lake Wales Ridhi “Jennie” Vyas is the recipient of the Young Women in Lions Club Public Affairs scholarship awarded by the Zonta Club of Bartow. Vyas is planning to major in pre-medicine. Police Chief Chris Velasquez shared his County Deputy Sheriffs Jay and Naynan Vyas, background and Lake work outside the city lim- will attend the University Wales Police Department its and Florida Highway of Pennsylvania in as a guest speaker Patrol on polices high- Philadelphia, to major in recently at the Lions Club ways and unincorporated biology on a pre-medi- in Lake Wales. areas. cine track with a minor in Velasquez started his Lake Wales Police political science. police work by following Department has covered The YWPA award rec- his father, also a police 21,522 emergency calls, ognizes female students, officer. After some time “I Need Help” 1,125, and 16-19, who demonstrate in the military and police 621 crashes in the city. In leadership skills and a academy, Velasquez addition, traffic tickets commitment to public joined the Lake Wales written so far, this year service and civic causes. Police Department and are 1,566 and warnings worked his way up to the 2,089. Submit any news position of chief. Keeping the police from anywhere The police chief spoke forces busy, Velasquez about the VOICE unit says Florida is the fastest Send us births, gradu- and how much money growing state in the ations, engagements and the volunteers for this nation with 1,000 new weddings, to community program save the city. residents per day. honors, business folks in Two of the Lions mem- the news, work honors bers are in the VOICE Zonta Club of and retirements including program and usually Bartow scholarship briefs on club-related or patrol together. winner told area events and announce- The department strives ments of fundraisers, on four goals: Quality of The winner for the classes and programs with service, Accountability, Bartow Zonta Club Young and for people. Professionalism and Women in Public Affairs Just send me the what, Keeping the public safe scholarship this year is why, when and where and 24 /7. The department Ridhi “Jennie” Vyas from who in an outline or a list has two chaplains and Bartow High School. form with a contact phone volunteers, available She will be awarded her number and I do all the when needed. There are scholarship on Senior rest. Send information to 44 officers who work Awards Night. Brenda Eggert Brader at in the city limits, Polk Vyas, the daughter of [email protected].

The Lake Wales Lions Club President Jimmy Carter welcomes Lake Wales Police adno=3453107 Chief Chris Velas- quez to a recent meeting. The chief explained the workings of the police department. Page 16 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 BARTOW NEWS Hundreds just say no Annual parade part of day of celebration in Bartow

By CHARLES A. BAKER III Fifth graders from 11 diverted attention away 10 a.m. Rotary Club and Bartow Cooper announced CORRESPONDENT area schools marched from the Florida Grown On the track surround- Healthcare Foundation awards for best school three miles from 1st Hometown BBQ event ing the football ﬁeld at who provided each banners. State Attorney BARTOW – Quite a Avenue near the Chicken where Adam Putnam’s Bartow High School, 700 participating ﬁfth grader Brian Haas was the key- few things happened in Shack, west on Main Street announced his candidacy cups of Gatorade were with a T-shirt, transpor- note speaker at the rally. downtown Bartow last and south on Broadway to for Florida governor, at passed out to the partic- tation to the event and May 2, Bartow City Wednesday starting with the high school. the Polk County History ipants in the 90-degree awards later. Commission members the 27th Annual Just Say Through the down- Center. Also there was the heat. Once inside the issued a proclamation No March and Rally in the town area shouts of Farmer’s Market which The annual event was gymnasium, Just Say No recognizing May 8-12 as morning. Just Say No temporarily is every Wednesday at sponsored by the Bartow Committee Chair Ernie Just Say No Week.

PHOTOS BY CHARLES A. BAKER III State Attorney Brian Haas was the keynote speaker and here he rouses the students. Ernie Cooper who organized and has been a part of the Just Say No Parade for 27 years, at the rally at the Bartow High School gym Thursday.

One of the fifth graders recognizes a loved one along the parade route. Members of the champion Bartow High School Cheer team entertain the students at the rally. adno=3444658 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 17 BARTOW NEWS Barrow to retire from Bartow Airport

By STEVE STEINER succeed her. Should the choices to the authority. Called upon for a “I think we’re going to get Airport Authority ran a [email protected] authority hire from with- “I wouldn’t mind A.J. legal standpoint, Airport excellent candidates.” risk of a potential shift in in, or expand the search. On the committee, but I Authority attorney Sean When asked, Barrow personnel could occur if BARTOW — After more “And now the decision is would object to Gene,” Parker said either hiring favored hiring from the decision was made to than four decades with yours.” said Airport Authority in-house or advertising within. look outside. the Bartow Municipal “I’d like to put it out member Pat Huff. “We are both allowed. He “I don’t think you After all was said Airport and Industrial for advertising,” said have other people in pointed out a bene- should advertise. You and done, the Airport Park, Cynthia Barrow, Authority member Trish the county who are ﬁt if the position is have people here who Authority members held who ascended to the ex- Pfeiffer. The authority knowledgeable.” advertised. are capable,” she said, off making a decision, in ecutive director position would be remiss to not His objection to “You put it out there, adding there is a person part, because one of its in 1994, decided it was cast a wider net. She Conrad was that he people can’t cry ‘foul,’” already in the employ members, Billy Simpson, time to retire. then mentioned she had was “the competition.” said Parker. He then who is ready and able to was on an excused “Thank you again for been in contact with Pfeiffer countered that pointed out a potential take over and without absence. Therefore, meeting with me individ- former Airport Authority argument. downside. A public naming that person, Chairman James F. ually,” Barrow said at the member Adrian “A.J.” “It’s not like a cutthroat search can be costly and urged consideration. Clements called for a April 8 Airport Authority Jackson, as well as Gene industry where you don’t time consuming. There “I think we should special meeting Monday, meeting. She then made Conrad, manager of help the competition,” is also the possibility no seriously consider it, May 15, just prior to mention it was at the Lakeland Linder Regional she said. As a business satisfactory applicant without advertising.” the city commission consensus of the Airport Airport, and another owner herself — she and might be found. Two of her concerns, meeting; members of Authority that the matter individual, to sound her husband own and Airport Authority she continued, was the Airport Authority of her resignation be them out whether they operate a storage facility member Leo Longworth the time it would take also serve as city placed at the top of the would consider being on in Bartow, among other didn’t believe that last bringing a person up to commissioners. agenda; to be discussed a committee that would endeavors — she added statement held water. speed if that person was That meeting was held and determined how, review applicants and she does refer people to “This is an excellent from the outside. The too late to get it into this and possibly who, to then forward their top competitors. airport,” said Longworth. other concern was the week’s edition. adno=3448145 Page 18 Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Silly socks storm may be rising Student project becomes a non-profit, helps ill youth

By JAMES COULTER and interests to help out delivering bags to see this grow.” CORRESPONDENT their community. patients. He had since Starting the program Zachary had many returned to the hospital proved to be the biggest LAKE WALES – Young friends and family mem- last Saturday to do the challenge, as Zachary patients at Lakeland bers in the hospital who same. and his family reached Regional Hospital received often asked for socks and “The first trip I sur- out to the community in a special treat with gift other items. prised myself and the search of donations and bags filled with toys, Wanting to help such nurses and everyone who sponsorships. coloring books, and patients in need, he received a bag,” Zachary Everything has since other comfort items last decided to collect dona- said. “This was the first improved for the better, Saturday. tions and provide them to time that I did this, and and Zachary and his par- This wasn’t Christmas, patients through gift bags. they were very surprised ents expect his program but for them, it was close What started as a simple by what I was able to to continue to grow and enough. It was Silly Socks school project has since bring the first time.” reach out further into the Saturday. transformed into a full- Both his parents have community. Silly Socks Saturday is time operation. been supportive of his en- Currently, he has been a non-profit organization “He went beyond my deavor. His father, Scott, visiting Lakeland Regional that provides gift bags expectations,” said his helps as the treasurer, once every month, but they filled with comfort items teacher, Kari Richards, while his mother, Diane plan to branch out to other to young patients in the who teachers middle Forcier assisted with the hospitals in the near future. hospital to help them pass school critical thinking research. For now, Zachary hopes their time while recov- and research at Bok “We have exceeded to continue doing what ering from their medical Academy. expectations with good he is doing by helping treatment. “I think he’s going to do sponsors that want to children who need help The program was start- amazing things with this keep this going,” Scott the most during their time ed by Zachary Kirkland, and be a great opportuni- said. “He can do anything of need at the hospital. a middle school student ty for us. It allows students that he puts his mind to. I “I am hoping to help at Bok Tower Academy in to think outside the box can’t see what he is going the kids in the community Lake Wales, as part of a and see that they too can to do.” and make them feel more school project. have an impact on the “It definitely exceeded at home at the hospital,” He and his fellow community at a young (my expectations) as he said. students were provided age.” I anticipated it to be,” For more information, PHOTO BY JAMES COULTER an assignment earlier this His first venture was Diane said. “Just to be able visit their Facebook year to figure out a way to last month to Lakeland to reach out to children in page, or their website at Zachary Kirkland showcases Silly Socks Saturday. utilize their special talents Regional Hospital, the hospitals … I hope to sillysocksaturdays.com. Winter Haven Hospital honors volunteers Annual luncheon honored others for contributions, provides student scholarships WINTER HAVEN – outstanding service, was department in provid- Winter Haven Hospital Curtis Dudley. ing spiritual care for paid tribute to its Other award recipi- patients, their loved volunteers at the Annual ents included: ones and team mem- Volunteer Appreciation • The Essential Piece: bers Also, new Auxiliary Luncheon, which was Dee Hengy, Dot Steckert officers for 2017-2018 held recently during and Joe Vislocky were installed: National Volunteer • Caring Heart: • Parliamentarian/ Week. Beverly Faniel and Mary Advisor-Past President: The Winter Haven Jo Terranova Trisha Knepp Hospital Volunteer • Thank You: Trisha • Historian: Joyce Auxiliary has provided Knepp Lawson support to patients, • The Power of One: • Correspondence visitors, physicians Ron Davey and Jean Secretary: Edna Henry and team members of Fico • Recording Secretary: Winter Haven Hospital • Making a Difference: Kathy Hill and Winter Haven Arlene Girolami and • Treasurer: Nancy Women’s Hospital Robin Newton Schaper since 1938. Hundreds • Your Time is • Second Vice of volunteers dedicate Appreciated: Dom President: Cindy Barber PHOTO PROVIDED their time and energy to DiMarco, Gary Isaak, • First Vice President: the hospital’s mission Margaret Kopel, Bob Janice Bullock From left, Anna Kaufmann president of the Winter Haven Hospital Auxiliary and Nancy Schaper, to improve the health of Uhlig • President: Anna Auxiliary Treasurer, present a $150,000 donation to Steve Nierman, president of Winter Haven all we serve and set the and Ann Volkwine Kauffman Hospital and Joel Thomas, president of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation. standard for high-qual- • Positively Awesome: During the lunch, the ity, compassionate care, Cindy Barber Winter Haven Hospital School, were named School at the end of the department. the hospital said in a Dennis O’Brien Auxiliary announced the Community Scholarship month. Winter Haven press release. received the winners of three $2,000 Award recipients. The In addition, the Hospital is recruit- Individual volunteers Department of Youth Scholarships Christopher Whitehead Auxiliary presented a ing volunteers. Visit were honored for their Chaplaincy Certificate awards. Kassie Provost, Memorial Scholarship $150,000 check to the BayCare.org/whh if contributions to the of Appreciation award. a Winter Haven High was given to teen Winter Haven Hospital you are interested in Auxiliary program. The This award is given School student, and volunteer Sarah Hughes, Foundation to support learning more about winner of The Spirit to volunteers who Alicia Rocha, who at- who will graduate from the burgeoning ma- volunteering at Winter Award, which highlights assist the chaplaincy tends Lake Region High Winter Haven High ternal fetal medicine Haven Hospital. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 19 Polk County power: Politicians from Polk

By LLOYD DUNKELBERGER microcosm of nascent finishing his second Crawford, who is also a and JIM TURNER political talent hidden term as state agriculture former Florida Senate THE NEWS SERVICE away in Polk, at least to commissioner, might president. outsiders. It’s Bartow not be the only Bartow One of Crawford’s TALLAHASSEE – If High School. High graduate in next high school friends Adam Putnam is success- Putnam 42, on year’s governor’s race. He was former state Sen. ful in his bid for governor Wednesday announced could be challenged in John Laurent, a Bartow next year, he will become his gubernatorial bid the Republican primary Republican who went the fourth governor who in front of the old Polk by Senate Appropriations on to become a circuit can claim Polk County as County Courthouse in Chairman Jack Latvala, judge. his home. downtown Bartow, a mile a Clearwater Republican In his announcement It’s a significant feat for north of his high-school who is a 1969 graduate of speech Wednesday, a county that ranks ninth alma mater that has links Bartow High. Putnam gave a shout-out in population among to a half-dozen prom- Another Bartow High to his former high school Florida’s 67 counties and inent Florida political graduate is former principal, Ernest Cooper, doesn’t include any of the players. Florida Secretary of State who was in the home- state’s major cities. But If elected next year, Katherine Harris, who town crowd of friends Polk has always punched Putnam would be the also served in Congress and supporters. above its political weight. school’s second governor. and the state Senate “Together we can Its prior governors The first was Holland, and was the Republican really make great things include Park Trammell, who graduated from nominee for the U.S. happen, as our principal Spessard Holland and Bartow High’s prede- Senate in 2006. The class used to say on that in- Lawton Chiles. All three cessor, the Summerlin of 1975 claims her. tercom every single day,” PHOTO BY JEFF ROSLOW Institute, named after the Putnam is the second Putnam said. “Thank you also served as multi-term After introducing Adam Putnam recently, the Republican candi- U.S. senators. 19th century cattle baron agriculture commission- for imprinting that on Jacob Summerlin. er produced by Bartow my mind and imprinting date for governor gives a hug to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, But there is an even also well-known nationally known Polk County resident. more remarkable Putnam, who is High. The first was Bob that in my heart.”

was introduced, led the the red tape to keep peo- better place to announce PARTY Pledge of Allegiance. ple safe, by his support of I am running for gov- After that, Polk County the Second Amendment. ernor for the state of FROM PAGE 1 Sheriff Grady Judd “Because of Adam, to- Florida.” introduced Putnam. He day it’s easier to protect Florida has accom- Gayle Weinkopf, for too was greeted with one’s family,” said Judd. plished much, but this whom having this done applause. “Crime is at a 45 year is not time to rest on its was first. “Now this is what Polk low because of Adam.” laurels, he said. “I’ve never had this County is all about,” said With that he introduced “We have so much done before,” said Judd, commenting upon Putnam. more yet to be done,” Weinkopf. Afterwards she the turnout. With that he “Wow! What a glorious he said. He cited several proudly displayed the extolled upon Putnam. day,” said Putnam when milestones that have patriotic symbol painted Judd said Putnam is the he stepped to the podi- been connected to on her right cheek. PHOTO BY TOMMY GRIFFIN embodiment of strong um. Following his com- Florida, such as being Christian values, ethics pliments of Judd, who he the state that put an This was not the only first. For Larry Fowler, of and morals. called the greatest sheriff American on the moon. Winter Haven, who lives Adam Putnam and his family greet the crowd Wednesday, May “With Adam, right is in the U.S. today, and He then followed it up near the border with 10, at the Florida Grown Hometown BBQ at the Polk County always right and wrong is applauding Corbett, he with what sounded like Dundee, the recently Courthouse. never right,” he said. then commented upon would be a campaign retired U.S. Postal Service mentioned there is a beginning with Pharrell As a legislator, then his roots, being born and slogan. employee, and was large Trump/Pence sign Williams “Happy.” as current agriculture raised in Bartow. “We can make Florida dressed from head to toe on his front yard. Following an invoca- commissioner, continued “I can’t think of a the launching pad for in patriotic garb, he did Shortly past 11:15 a.m., tion by a longtime friend, Judd, Putnam has made better place to be than in the American Dream. not know what to expect. the Bartow High School Jeb Smith, World War safety successful, and Bartow. I can’t think of a Together we can make “It’s my first rally,” Band, bedecked in their II veteran J.J. Corbett, provided an example better place to begin this. great things happen,” the Fowler said. He proudly new uniforms, struck up, greeted by cheers as he how Putnam cut through “I can’t think of a candidate said.

becoming successful.” who don’t want to go to were in the same class. HERO Judd added that with college,” he said mean- “He became a (state) PUTNAM’S off his candidacy last Wednesday, crime at a 45-year low ing job training has to legislator right after (high will file the first report for his FROM PAGE 1 now, it’s because of the be successful. “When school),” Presley recalled. POLITICAL POCKET campaign account in June. “leadership of people like people work and have “I think he’s become an Adam Putnam starts the 2018 phone. Putnam look at it, Adam.” self sufficiency every exception to a regular race with a huge bankroll. A ADAM HUGHES PUTNAM smiled, talked with Rowe Putnam said what problem is solvable.” politician.” political committee closely tied to Education: University of Florida, and moved down the drives him is Florida Lamar Middleton, a Putnam raised $809,156 in April bachelor of science food and line to greet more of the First. He said conser- Hometown hero Winter Haven resident and had nearly $8.24 million in resource economics hundreds of people who vative leadership is The conservative ap- since 1987, began follow- Parents: Sarah Elizabeth (née necessary and helps proach was not, though, ing Putnam when he first cash on hand as of the end of the came out in the 90-de- month, according to a newly filed Hughes) and William Dudley gree heat for the election businesses grow and what stood out to most got into political office in Putnam II increases jobs. people on Wednesday. In the late 1980s. report at the state Division of kickoff. Elections. Career “Someone told me “The state is growing his address to the crowd, “I felt like he’d be gov- so much but still a lot Putnam brought up local ernor,” Middleton said. The committee, known as Florida House: November I should contact him “Florida Grown,” has raised more 1996-November 2000 and see if he could help. has to be done,” he said. stories. He recalled how “He just made common “We can make Florida he raised Georgia Boy, sense.” than $11.33 million since being U.S. House: January 2001- He actually called me,” January 2011 Rowe remembered from the leader in achieving the Hereford bull he Middleton and his formed in February 2015. Among the American dream.” raised for the 4H Club wife, Elizabeth, were its big contributions in April was Chair of House Republican 2002. “He did something Policy Committee: February and got the ball rolling. He said Florida is the in high school that was both instructors at Polk $100,000 from a Florida Chamber I wanted to personally state that put a man on trained just a few blocks State College where they of Commerce PAC and $100,000 2006-January 2007 thank him … I’ve never the moon and let’s see away, “behind the county got to know Putnam from Peace River Citrus Products, Commissioner of Agriculture: done that.” what this state can do to building.” He recalled his through his speaking the report shows. January 2011-present make another “leap for parents’ business which appearances there. Putnam, who formally kicked Political conservative mankind.” is where Sonny’s is now “I was shocked at While Polk County has “We can make Florida located on Broadway. He how young he was,” more Democrats than the launching pad for recalled the winter freez- Elizabeth recalled. She “He just asked me how Engineering, has known Republicans registered, the American Dream,” es in the late 1980s that said she liked to see I was and we started Putnam for about 15 it has shown itself he said. “Together we doomed the citrus crop young people involved in talking … it was like old years. to be a conservative can make great things and he experienced the politics. She felt it would times,” he said. “He may be one of the leaning county in recent happen.” hard work to successfully help encourage other Active in the Key Club, smartest guys I have ever elections. All county He said education save it has — all strong students to follow that student government met,” Madrid said. “His commissioners, too, are must improve in the memories that left him path. Brian Hillman, a and other clubs in high mind is like a steel trap. Republicans. Putnam, state, and it can get knowing nothing is easy. life-long Bartow resident, school, Hillman remem- He understands issues, Sheriff Grady Judd, said better. “He always impressed who remembers Putnam bered Putnam just stood he knows how to work, is a conservative too, “I am from a system me,” said Pastor Tom from high school, was out. he is humble.” when he introduced where I had a good Presley. “He has accom- somewhat impressed of “Even early in high Madrid pointed out Putnam to hundreds who education. I want to plished many things. One his memory. school he stood out … Putnam can handle the gathered at the historic lead children to get that thing is he can dissect “He was always outgo- he always had the bull pressure of power. Polk County Courthouse. today,” he said. something and get right ing and he looks you in by the horns. He was “He’s the commission- “He is principally He said job training direction to go into it the eye,” Hillman said. always approachable er of agriculture, that’s conservative,” Judd said. has to increase and we with.” Hillman last saw even at a young age and the second most pow- “He wants to cut taxes, have to not treat children Presley first got to Putnam about two-and- he’s always there to talk erful position in Florida decrease regulations and like everyone has to go to know Putnam when he a-half years ago after not to you.” behind the governor. keep the government college to succeed. was in high school where seeing him for about five Larry Madrid, the This would be the next out of the way of (you) “Still there are those Putnam and his daughter years before that. owner of Madrid logical step.” Page 20 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 SCHOOL NEWS Someone’s going to win a car Saturday Bartow Ford plans the 24th Drive for the Region 12 Arabian Championship High school and transition students Excellence by honoring 20 Polk County Christine Roslow Show May 8–13 in Perry, Ga., and won from across the county gathered at juniors and seniors for their academic awards in the competition. Auburndale Civic Center, where they success. Members Lauren Branam, Bella enjoyed refreshments and danced to The event is planned at 10 a.m. Our Schools Castro, Jessica McCall and Marcus music from a DJ. Saturday, May 20 at Bartow Ford on U.S. Wright competed in three different 98 North. classes: Training Level 3 Test, Dressage Lake Wales student makes The Bartow Ford Drive for Excellence Seat Equitation and Sport Horse Under Christine can be contacted at Harding University dean’s program was established to encourage Saddle, all Junior to Ride classes. For [email protected]. excellence in education among Polk Training Level Test 3 JTR, Marcus list County Juniors and Seniors. For more Wright placed third on HG Beau Bask Catherine Ullman, of Lake Wales, than two decades, it has offered local the recent United States Geography Afire, Jessica McCall placed fourth a psychology and leadership and students who achieve A’s, B’s and per- Olympiad in Arlington, Va. on AM Tempta Star, Lauren Branam ministry major at Harding University fect attendance the chance to be drawn At last year’s Olympiad in Beijing, placed fifth on YF Full Sail, and Isabel was among more than 1,300 students as a top qualifier for the opportunity to Manning finished eighth out of more Castro placed sixth on Fan the Flame. included on the dean’s list for grades win a new Ford. than 170 competitors from around the This training test is done individually achieved during the spring 2017 The 20 finalists are Jaylynn Guinn, world – and first among U.S. students. with riders competing to show the semester. Kendall Legg, Hannah Willis, Michael horses skill in various maneuvers with The dean’s list is published each Fitzgerald Smith Jr., Katherine Puccio, a minimum of 15 precision maneuvers semester by Dr. Marty Spears, Brandon Smith, Pedro Reyes Toledo, and transitions they memorize. In University provost, honoring those Alana Pirbaksh, Angelica Burr, Kerstin their Dressage Seat Equitation class, who have achieved high scholarship. King, Ryan Yates, Alexander Gaudet, Branam, McCall and Wright all earned To be eligible, a student must be Logan Richard Thompson, Hannah a Top 5 Placement. In the Sport Horse carrying 12 or more hours with a 3.65 Hensley, Alexis Van Poppel, Samuel Under Saddle, Branam earned a Top or higher grade-point average and no Dooley, Nolan Hurt, James Davis, 5 Placement. These Top 5 Placements incompletes. Kambryn Shiver and Jennifer Taylor earn the students the honor of attend- Harding University is a private For information call 863-533-0425 ext. ing the National competition planned Christian university located in Searcy, 2240. PHOTO PROVIDED in Tulsa, Okla., this year. Ark. Marcus Wright on Beau, Jessica McCall on The students are unable to attend. Bartow IB student earns spot Tempta, Bella Castro on Scooter and Lauren Bartow High names head in geography competition Branam on Sailor Three schools partner to football coach have first ever prom A.J. Manning from Bartow High Summerlin students earn Rayshawn Tiller, the current athletic IB, one of the world’s top geogra- Doris A. Sanders Learning Center, director and assistant head football phy students, is headed back to the honors in equestrian Jean O’ Dell Learning Center and Karen coach at Bartow High, will be taking International Geography Olympiad competition M. Siegel Academy joined together to over the Yellow Jackets’ football pro- which is planned in August in Belgrade, host their first-ever combined prom Four students from the Summerlin gram as the new head coach. Serbia. last week, providing a memorable Academy Equestrian Team attended He replaces Jake McCrae, who quit Manning placed third overall at event for students with special needs. earlier this year. adno=3445347 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 21 Top six volunteers recognized by district By CATHY PALMER teacher who is known for CORRESPONDENT her mentorship and ar- tistic contributions to the BARTOW – More than school. She also provides 100 Polk County school students one-on-one volunteers were feted by attention and serves as an the school district last assistant in the classroom week, but only six were and media center. named “volunteers of the Morrison, represent- year.” ing Spessard Holland Those selected for that Elementary, a profession- honor were: elementary al educator, uses her skills school honorees Haley to help first grade stu- Albert, Lori Morrison, and dents master reading and Carol Cramp, and sec- math. She uses hands-on Polk County School Board Members Kay Fields, Tim Harris, Lori ondary school honorees materials and visual aids Cunningham, Hazel Sellers and Billy Townsend attended Thurs- Aundrea Camp,Val Walsh to entice the children day’s school volunteer recognition event. Board Member Sara PHOTOS BY CATHY PALMER and Bonita Murphy. and make subjects come Beth Reynolds was not at the event School officials say to life. She also mentors The 2017 Outstanding School Volunteers named Thursday were, volunteers are essential disadvantaged students helping them to focus on and can be found tutor- from left, Bonita Murphy, Haley Albert, Aundrea Camp, Lori and last year donated and assists parents on tasks and encouraging ing students twice a week. Morrison and Val Walsh. Carol Cramp, also one of the volunteers more than 200,000 hours weekends. them to succeed. She’s She works with those who of the year was unable to attend the presentation ceremonies. of time to help out in Cramp, from Alta Vista also the football team’s struggle with reading and Sponsoring this year’s Also attending the classrooms and adminis- Elementary in Haines equipment manager and English. breakfast and ceremonies event were the members trative offices. City, uses her skills lends a hand with clerical According to Crowley, was MidFlorida Credit of the Polk County School “Volunteers do jobs to help students with services when needed. the volunteers of the Union. The Lake Miriam Board, Superintendent of that run from making language based disabili- Harrison School of the year were selected by a Creek School Orchestra Schools Jacqueline Byrd copies to serving as ties and spends four days Arts’ adult volunteer of committee comprised Strings provided the and administrators from presidents of the PTA,” a week with first graders. the year has created a of district officials, local entertainment during all 164 of the county’s said event emcee Jeanette Most students she works special mentor program principals and members breakfast and before the schools and education Crowley. “Each of you with are students where that links high school and of the community. ceremonies. centers. (volunteers) stand in the English is their second elementary students with gap for our schools and language. She helps these shared interests. Val Walsh students and help them students practice their has dedicated herself to be the very best they can vocabulary and reading this mentorship program be.” comprehension. and also sits at the helm of Albert, 17, volunteers at On the secondary level, the Harrison PTA. Stephens Elementary and Aundrea Camp of Fort The West Area Adult helps girls develop self Meade Middle/Senior School is where Bonita esteem and encourages High, is a 2015 graduate Murphy donates her students at all levels to of the Fort Meade school time and has for the past work on their reading and frequently men- 16 years. She’s a former skills. She is an aspiring tors a diverse group of teacher who knows how elementary school special needs students, to maintain discipline,

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863.594.1742 863.594.1977 Dr. Kevin Barlow adno=3445376 WinterHavenAudiology.com Page 22 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 BARTOW NEWS Cooper wins Soaring Eagle award By JEFF ROSLOW these leaders are those has always joined in [email protected] who are involved in any the effort to help the type of youth activity … students. BARTOW – When not necessarily the Boy “Bartow Community he was a high school Scouts. Ernie has been Health Care Foundation student in the 1950s, involved with the Boy has done a lot,” he said. Ernie Cooper was with a Scouts, but we recog- “They pay for the buses bunch of friends at the nized someone who has to bring the kids to the Youth Center in Bowling a great impact on the parade. The school Green, Florida. youth in his community.” system used to do that “We were at the back Cooper worked for for years and we didn’t table and there were the Polk County School have to pay for it. But people playing cards, District for 35 years and when the budgets got shooting pool, listening served as the principal tight and they had to cut to music,” he recalled. of Bartow Junior High back, Brian Hinton and “After a while everyone (before it was Bartow the foundation stepped moved and I was by Middle School) from up to the plate. Without myself. I looked around 1988-1990 and was the that, we couldn’t have and saw different friends principal of Bartow High done it.” of mine and I thought it School from 1990-1996. While Cooper has was really neat. I thought But outside the school is been active with the one day I want to work where Cooper did a lot local Scouts when his with young people. I to help the kids. Perhaps children were in the Cub want to help them to he’s best known in the Scouts, his influence on meet their potential.” community for working youngsters could also be That was the first time with kids in heading up seen in church where he Cooper said he thought the annual Just Say No taught a Sunday school about helping the youth. Parade. The most recent class and has been active But he didn’t follow one was last Thursday. in the youth program. that immediately after Fifth graders from It wasn’t always about school. Eventually he schools in the Bartow helping the youth for did and next Tuesday his area, which includes Cooper though. Working devotion to youth will be Alturas, Fort Meade and in the private sector he recognized by the Boy Highland City, march took advantage of the Scouts of America with from Main Street, down finance degree he earned the Soaring Eagle Award. Broadway to the high in college and managed a PHOTO BY CHARLES A. BAKER III Each year, Boy Scouts school where a rally is finance office. However, name a Soaring Eagle held. Cooper and Mary he continued in school Ernie Cooper at last week’s Just Say No Parade which he helped to start and has organize for 27 in their territory and, Ann DeLoach started the and eventually applied years. Tuesday he will receive the Soating Eagle Award from the Boy Scouts. representing the Bartow event in 1990, and it has for a job as a DCT teach- region, Cooper was never stopped. er and he was hired. His selected for his “contri- “Mary Ann reached boss encouraged him to butions of our communi- out to Floral Avenue finish his education and ty youth and the scouting Elementary. They had pursue teaching. program,” Hector a little program for “I was hired into that Centeno, the Thunder students for Just Say and I fell in love in the Bird district executive of No,” Cooper recalled. teaching aspect and the Boy Scouts, wrote in “We put it into the high working with young peo- a press release. school and it just kind ple and getting them jobs The Boy Scouts of the of blossomed from that and getting them started Greater Tampa Bay Area point.” on careers,” he said. Council names Soaring He said the guidance The ceremony for Eagles in each of its counselor left the high Cooper will be Tuesday, regions every year. Jesse school for another job, May 23 at the Bartow Jackson was named this but he kept carrying out Civic Center, 2205 Floral year in the Lake Wales the program even after Drive, Bartow. While area, Don Mason was he left the school. Cooper is pleased to be named from Haines “After I became an area recognized by the Boy City, Stephen F. Baker superintendent I just Scouts, he was quick to was named from Winter continued the program. point out that what he Haven and winners The Rotary Club stepped does is not about him. will be announced for in and gave us a big do- “This is not about Sebring and Lakeland nation and have become Ernie. This is about other soon, Centeno said. sponsors.” people and what we do “The reason we select He said the community for them,” he said. adno=3445369 adno=3445850 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Page 23

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The information is gathered from police, sheriff’s ofﬁce, Florida Highway Patrol, jail and ﬁre records. Not every arrest leads to a conviction and guilt POLICE BEAT or innocence is determined by the court system. First rabies incident reported

The Polk County she or pet has had an had sustained injuries remember anything until Facebook page. exterior of the vehicle, as Sheriff’s Office Animal exposure to contact the and needed medical he woke in the hospital. Those interested in well as canvassed the area Control Section con- PCSO Animal Control attention. “I have no memory learning more about and located the black firmed on May 9 the first Section at 863-577-1762. Polk county EMS was of my first helicopter treating snakebites, carrying case lying on the positive rabies case in For information on summoned and respond- ride,” Roddenberry told care will be explored sidewalk. Polk County for 2017 was rabies please visit: ed to the scene. firefighters. at the Polk County Fire recorded. http://www.polksheriff. Both the driver and Polk County Fire Rescue’s EMS Symposium Stolen ring On May 6 a resident of org/InsidePCSO/LE/ passenger were trans- Rescue crews were on Tuesday, May 23 Carla Circle in Lakeland SOD/BOSO/AC/Pages/ ported to an area hospital dispatched to the River at the Polk County On May 8, Lake Wales found his dogs nipping RabiesandYou.aspx. with undetermined Ranch hunting grounds Emergency Operations Police responded to at a bat in the yard. The injuries. around 6:30 p.m. Fire Center in Winter Haven. the lobby of the police bat had also been in the Motorcyclist, rescue crews were told Registration is free. Visit department in reference mouths of the dogs. passenger injured Patient thanks someone shot the snake www.polk-county.net/ to a theft complaint. The owner contacted in the midsection and EMS-Symposium to The victim said she while fleeing crews after had a ring that was stolen the PCSO Animal Control rattlesnake bite Roddenberry thought it register. Section and the bat was At approximately was dead; but when he from her in January. At impounded and sent to 2:30 a.m., May 7, a police Jerome Roddenberry picked it up, the snake bit Vehicle burglary the time she said she was the state lab for rabies officer with the Bartow was treated by Polk him on his hand. living in the Green Gables testing. Police Department saw a County Fire Rescue after When fire rescue crews On May 9, Lake Wales Hotel when the ring was The bat was confirmed 2003 Suzuki motorcycle a rattlesnake bit him arrived, Roddenberry Police responded to an stolen. positive for rabies on May traveling at a high rate of on his hand. He’s now needed advanced medi- address in reference to When asked why she 9. The owner was notified speed going westbound out of the hospital and cal care. He was airlifted a vehicle burglary. Upon waited to report the inci- of the test results. lane of State Road 60 in recovering well. On April to Osceola Regional arrival LWP made contact dent the victim said her Both dogs are current the area of Main Street 21, he met some of the Medical Center so anti- with the victim who boyfriend was in jail and on their vaccines and and tried to stop him. Polk County Fire Rescue venin could be adminis- stated sometime be- she could not get into his have been placed on As the officer ap- members who started his tered. Roddenberry said tween 1:30-1:50 a.m., his house to retrieve the rings home quarantine for 10 proached the vehicle and care. he received 32 vials of Hewlett Packard laptop receipt, police reported. days. activated his emergency Roddenberry was antivenin at the hospital. computer and an Apple She said in January a Residents are reminded lights, the motorcycle bitten on April 9, by a five “I’m lucky to be alive,” iPhone 5S were stolen known suspect entered that bats and raccoons failed to stop, police and a half foot rattle- he added. from his vehicle. His her room and she are among the mammals reported. As the motorcy- snake. He told firefighters Roddenberry also vehicle was not secured. believes he took the ring. considered to be high cle neared the 2700 block during the reunion that told the Polk County He went outside to get his She said the suspect risk species or “rabies of S.R. 60 West, it collided the bite itself didn’t hurt, Fire Rescue members, phone charger from the admitted to her that he vector species.” Do not with the patrol vehicle. “but things got bad, fast.” “You saved my life. You vehicle and noticed the took the ring. The suspect approach any animal that The officer immediately After about 10 steps he kept me going until I laptop and phone were is currently in jail on is acting in an unusual or stopped and determined wasn’t able to move and got to the hospital.” missing. The HP laptop unrelated charges so the suspicious manner, the that the driver and pas- approximately 30 seconds Video taken during the is black and silver, and case will be assigned to sheriff’s office warned. senger of the motorcycle after the bite, he doesn’t reunion is posted on the was in a black carrying investigations for follow Those who think he or Polk County Fire Rescue case. LWP processed the up. adno=3445759