2 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 About This Magazine

4 / Our Beautiful City 5 / Our Rich history 6 / future PROMISE 9 / Winter haven business 10 / attractions 1 6 / arts and Culture 18 / DElicious Dining 19 / fabulous, fun Shopping 20 / aCCOMMODations 21 / Places of worship 22 / BECOMing a Resident 24 / area Realtors 25 / Municipal Leadership 27 / sCHOOl 2 8 / Healthcare and 32 / Calendar of events 35 / tHings to do 38 / index of information

Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce building downtown incorporated as a Chamber of Polk County guides, nature and lakes Commerce in 1923. In 1996 the name information and maps. he 2012 edition of Destination changed to the “Greater Winter Haven Thank you for choosing Winter Haven is filled with Chamber of Commerce” to better Winter Haven as your destination. Tinformation that visitors and relocating represent the area we serve. We hope you enjoy your visit. Tfamilies will find useful. You’ll find Our Chamber offers a voice for the a little history, a look to our bright business community, and we represent future and a number of special areas their collective interests. The Winter of interest including dining, shopping, Haven Chamber also works to protect accommodations, the arts ... all the and enhance the quality of life great things you can do while visiting in Central . ® Florida! We invite you to visit the Relocating? There’s helpful Chamber located at 401 Avenue B, information about public services, NW, overlooking downtown Winter The Official Publication of the demographics, educational Haven’s Central Park. Our lobby Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce opportunities and our is open 9 am to 4 pm 401 Ave. B, Winter Haven, FL 33881 world-class healthcare facilities Monday through Friday. (863) 293-2138 or e-mail among a variety of topics. For your convenience [email protected] Our Chamber was we have a variety www.WinterHavenChamber.com originally founded in 1910 of information available Destination Winter Haven is published by the Greater Winter Haven as a Board of Trade. including attraction brochures, Chamber of Commerce / Bob Gernert Jr. - Executive Director The organization was later 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 3 Our Beautiful City

inter Haven is not just a great place to visit – it’s Wa great place to live. You’ll find a mild climate, lush tropical foliage Wand sparkling lakes at every turn.

Our natural environment allows many landscaping to the streets, sidewalks opportunities for outdoor leisure and crosswalks. Our public library activities. overlooking Central Park is one of As the “Chain of Lakes City,” the state’s most beautiful. You’ll find Winter Haven boasts 50 lakes – many interesting historic buildings, too. of them canal-connected – all waiting Make plans to enjoy the Central to provide memorable moments Park ... the heart of downtown including boating, fishing, water skiing featuring a beautiful public fountain and wakeboarding. Whether you feel as its focal point. The park is host like spending leisure time on a lake, to festivals, art shows and musical walking on one of the many nature performances. Virtually every Friday trails, golfing or just enjoying the in the fall, winter and spring, Central sights around town – opportunities Park will have evening entertainment. to play, exercise or just relax and take You can also enjoy ten outdoor it all in are always available. sculptures crafted by the hands of With a blossoming arts culture, talented artists from across the country. unique shops and year-round These are the result of the Florida community activities, our community Outdoor Sculpture Competition takes pride in not only being a family conducted by the acclaimed friendly place at heart, but a beautiful Polk Museum of Art in city as well. Downtown Winter conjunction with the City Haven features modern upgrades and of Winter Haven. 4 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Our Rich History

Historical Sites Gene Leedy Architectural Tour Winter Haven Museum of Winter Haven History October through May open Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lake Wales Depot - Lake Wales (863) 676-5160 - www.CityofLakeWales.com/depot Mulberry Phosphate Museum Mulberry - (863) 425-2823 Polk County Historical Museum (863) 534-4386 - www.PolkCountyMuseum.org Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library Bartow - (863) 534-4380 Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Florida Southern College Lakeland

opened Cypress Gardens on Lake Eloise. Pope brought intense publicity inter Haven has a rich to Florida, Winter Haven and his history dating to the first beloved Cypress Gardens. The Pope Wsettlers arriving here in the 1860s. family sold the park in 1985. The City incorporated in 1911 and just For 73 years it entertained more Wcelebrated our Centennial year! The than 50 million people. A series of village was named in 1885 by P. D. and completed in the early 20s. The factors led owners to shutter the park Eycleshimer. While many lived Florida boom of the 1920s brought in the fall of 2009 and in October in the vicinity such as the Eycleshimers, rapid growth throughout Florida and, 2011, opened Sykes, Jacksons and Inmans, the first eventually, serious economic turmoil. LEGOLAND® Florida on the historic official residents of the village after Winter Haven was no exception. site. The Cypress Gardens botanical it was platted were F.A.K. Harris Citrus and other agricultural gardens, owned by the citizens of Polk and his wife Adele who built the first crops were the early economic County, are leased to and maintained commercial and residential structure mainstays. In 1930 a 22-year-old by Merlin Entertainments and their downtown in 1885. George Jenkins would start the Publix LEGOLAND division. The village grew slowly for the Super Market chain here on Fourth St. first several decades with less than NW. The building still exists 2,000 residents as late as 1920. and now houses a Our famous chain of restaurant. In 1936 canal-connected lakes a gregarious promoter was started in 1915 named Dick Pope 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 5 Future Promise. . .

inter Haven has a future filled with bright Wopportunities. As a historic destination for tourism, the evolution of Cypress WGardens into LEGOLAND® Florida holds great promise that our hospitality industry will thrive into the future. The beautiful new park is expected to attract up to two million visitors annually and employs 1,000 full- and part-time workers. The audience for LEGOLAND® Florida is families with children two to twelve years old. Accommodating these new visitors will be a catalyst for new hotels, restaurants and retail areas. We are working to build a family friendly city environment and invite East,” a business accelerator located your suggestions on how to make your in the Six/Ten Plaza building. More stay memorable. than 35 companies and 350 employees With this new tourism potential, bring a growing technology presence to the local commercial landscape will the downtown core. The data managed experience great change. One such in our area serves clients worldwide. project plans to convert the Chain of Companies such as the Ford Modeling Lakes complex property on Lake Lulu Agency, Sony Playstation, CBS, to a mixed-use hotel/restaurant/retail Winter Haven near Highway 60. Yahoo, eBay, MIT and more have complex. Evansville Western Railway, sought the expertise of Winter Haven- a subsidiary of CSX Transportation, based technology companies. will construct an inter-modal terminal The addition of “Lambda Rail,” facility to serve as a major distribution a high-speed data network some call hub for the entire state. That “Internet 2,” serves research, medical construction is expected to begin in and educational institutions, quickly 2012 and bring hundreds of new jobs. and efficiently moving massive Numerous technology companies amounts of digital data. The downtown call downtown Winter Haven home, technology hub is expected to grow anchored primarily by the Inland Fiber in size to 50 companies with more A significant industrial/ and Data Park and the facilities of the than 500 employees in the next two warehousing/transportation Six/Ten Corporation. The University years, providing high-wage/high-skill development will unfold in south of South Florida Polytechnic opportunities for our workforce. University has established “Blue Sky 6 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Fire Station 1 Lake Myrtle Complex

All of Polk County is marketed The complex is also home to the as a sports tournament destination Florida Sports Hall of Fame. by Polk County Sports Marketing. The future holds great One new venue near promise for the greater Winter Haven is fast Winter Haven becoming an event area, both magnet. The Lake Myrtle economically Sports Complex in nearby and from Auburndale opened in 2009 a quality of life vantage and hosts various sporting point. This unique city is the events and the accompanying perfect place to live, work crowds of spectators. and play. Lake Maude Nature Park

inter Haven strives to be a progressive community. WThe recently opened Fire Station #1 Wwas the community’s first LEED certified “green” building. The City has made becoming a sustainable community a primary goal. The Lake Maude Nature Park took its place among several other new nature parks the City has created adding valuable recreational options. A new downtown trailhead park serving the Chain of Lakes Trail has opened an extensive new play area. This will complement a downtown that currently features more than $4 million in aesthetic upgrades and a $5 million public library voted Florida’s most beautiful in 2005.

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 7 8 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Winter Haven Business

New Business City of Winter Haven Economic Development Director David Dickey [email protected] (863) 291-5600

Central Florida Development Council 863-551-4760 www.whedc.com

Motor Company, Pepperidge Farm, Sherwin Williams and Coca-Cola. he past several years have Airside Potential been challenging economic Winter Haven has invested Ttimes for our nation. Florida is no significant resources and opened a Texception. However, Winter Haven’s new Winter Haven Municipal Airport diverse economy has fared better than Terminal accessed from U.S. Highway most. Current opportunities such as as agribusiness and agritechnology, 92 north of the city. The site is also LEGOLAND® Florida, a pending Economic development groups in the planning stages for an airport inter-modal rail and industrial/ such as the Winter Haven Economic commercial park. The airport is warehousing/business park, coupled Development Council and the Central currently one of the most modern with a rapidly growing technology Florida Development Council are and well equipped in the nation. core downtown and the enhanced working to attract both small businesses educational resources of USF and large corporations to the area. Polytechnic and Polk State College, Some of the major corporations are sources of growing optimism. which have found Polk County good Our major economic segments for business include include technology, tourism, Publix Super manufacturing, distribution Markets, Florida’s and logistics, medical Natural Growers, services, retail and State Farm Insurance, business sectors such Lockheed Martin, Ford 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 9 Area Attractions

inter Haven is excited to tell you about what’s Wnew in town … W leGOLAND® Florida . . . Our Spectacular New Theme Park . . . As host city to LEGOLAND® Florida, Winter Haven is excited to welcome you. Opened in October 2011 on the iconic grounds of Florida’s first theme park, Cypress Gardens, LEGOLAND® Florida is the fifth and largest of the LEGOLAND brand and only the second such park in the United States. This wholesome family entertainment experience caters primarily to children two to twelve LEGOLAND® Florida on opening day.

years old as they discover giant Lego sculptures, rides, live entertainment and Miniland USA, which consists of scaled-down replicas of famous skylines, monuments and buildings. (Treat yourself to some Granny’s Apple Fries for a real treat!) You’ll also find a relaxing stroll awaits through the world famous Cypress Gardens Botanical Gardens. The botanical gardens are owned by the citizens of Polk County and leased to the park in exchange for their maintenance.

10 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Towering Nearby . . . Dutch immigrant Edward Bok. Soaring 205 feet from the Every half hour, the “singing tower” top of Florida’s highest peninsular rings out, and each day at 1:00 and point, Bok Tower is the exquisite 3:00 p.m. a carillonneur plays various centerpiece that makes Bok Tower musical selections for visitors. It is Gardens a majestic and soul- a scenic picnic destination. nourishing paradise. The marble and Open daily 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., coquina rock tower is home to Bok Tower Gardens also features a 60-bell carillon, among the world’s special events and tours throughout finest. It is surrounded by more the year. You’ll also find a visitor than 700 acres of groves, meadows center, café, gift shop and free parking. endangered plants and protected For more information call lands. The tower opened in 1929 as 863-676-1408 or visit a gift to the people of America from www.BokTowerGardens.com.

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 11 More Area Attractions

here Dreams Take Flight . . . WFantasy of Flight is a stunning Art Deco facility and home to more Wthan 40 rare and vintage aircraft, many of which have been restored to flyable condition. But that is just the beginning. The attraction offers a variety of guided tours including visits to their working restoration and maintenance areas. You can take a spin on a state-of-the-art hang glide simulator in their interactive Fun with Flight center for families, and climb on board a real B-17 Flying Fortress in a WWII bombing mission. If you are looking for a real experience, real fun and something left by those champions who dared the entire family can enjoy, Fantasy to don skis – and those who skied on of Flight is “An Attraction on a Higher their bare feet – tethered to a boat by Plane.” a short rope. This relatively young Let your imagination take wing sport dates from 1922. Champions at Fantasy of Flight located in and their water-skiing records, many Polk City just off I-4 at exit 44 (about of which were set right here in 20 minutes from Winter Haven). a little more hands-on, a full-motion Winter Haven on Lake Eloise, are on A day at Fantasy of Flight offers simulated battle mission over the display at the American Water Ski a variety of options. Rare aircraft take South Pacific might be just the ticket. Hall of Fame. For more information to the skies during “Aircraft of Admission and other information is contact (863) 324-2472 or visit the Day” demonstrations (weather available by calling (863) 984-3500 or www.WaterSkiHallOfFame.com. permitting). Other options include by visiting www.FantasyofFlight.com. a behind-the-scenes peek on the Back Lot Tour, or even a look into preparing Water Ski Hall of Fame vintage aircraft to fly again in the You may not get your own feet Restoration Shop Tour. Other tours wet, but you can certainly learn the include those of the hangars housing history of those who have by water vintage aircraft, providing a look into skiing their way into the American aviation history from early flight, Water Ski Hall of Fame. Also located WWI, WWII and beyond. near Fantasy of Flight, this museum For those who want to be experience offers a look at the legacy 12 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 13 Back to Nature and the Real Florida ... Airboat Rides, too! You’ll find the prospects for experiencing the beauty of Central Florida are plentiful. Protected trails and parks are located in every direction offering opportunities to study nature, picnic or even pitch a tent and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visit a citrus grove, smell the orange blossoms or stop at a fresh fruit store. If camping isn’t your speed, a stay at Camp Mack’s River Resort is a great alternative. Nestled among the oak trees along the banks of the Kissimmee River, cabins and ample RV parking pads are available for rent. Need more comfort than a cabin? Camp Mack’s 40-room motel has modern conveniences and amenities. Located in the “Heart of the Big Bass Country,” Camp Mack also offers rides on an airboat and nature tours. For more information contact 863-696-1108 or visit www.CampMack.com.

14 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 POLK COUNTY’S LARGEST COMMUNITY BANK See how we stack up to the competition.

13 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN POLK COUNTY • FREE CHECKING • PERSONAL AND COMMERCIAL LOANS • WEALTH MANAGEMENT • RETIREMENT SERVICES • TREASURY MANAGEMENT SERVICES 863.291.3900 www.centerstatebank.com

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 15 Arts and Culture

inter Haven, Polk County and Central Florida offer Wyear-round cultural and arts events. You have many choices from the Whighly acclaimed Theatre Winter Haven and Polk State College Fine Arts Series to the Lakeland Center and Polk Museum of Art. Add to that the offerings of Orlando and Tampa, both a convenient 45-minute drive, and your choices are nearly endless. No matter the reason or the season – theatre, music, comedy or galleries – local arts and culture are plentiful. Theatre Winter Haven captivates audiences with each new season’s productions. With more than 330 seats in the Chain of Lakes auditorium, the theatre can literally pack the house displaying the work of local artisans. – and often does – selling more than The exhibits change year-round. 30,000 tickets every year. Recognized There’s no shortage of art galleries in as one of the best small theatres in the local area. Ridge Art Association America, TWH puts on eight full-scale is Winter Haven’s premier gallery productions annually and has summer, with exhibits on display in the Chain of Lakes location. RAA is also youth, senior and stage-read programs Band take turns entertaining audiences host to public receptions for artists, as well. at the campus or around the city at competitions, classes and festivals Downtown’s historic Ritz Theatre various events throughout the year. throughout the year. Other local has undergone restoration as a multi- Musical delights can also be galleries include the Art Cottage and purpose facility and will host such heard at concerts sponsored by the Arts Ensemble International. upcoming events as a series of shows Symphony Guild of Winter Haven. To by entertainer Jim Stafford, a Winter the delight of many, the Bach Festival Haven native who has been honored of Central Florida promotes the works as the top entertainer in Branson, of Johann Sebastian Bach through live Missouri. performances each year. In addition Polk State College also hosts to the daily Carillon concerts, Bok theatrical and musical productions on Tower Gardens hosts various concerts its stage in the Fine Arts Auditorium throughout the year both in the gardens on the Winter Haven campus. and also in Pinewood Estate. The Polk State College Players, Music For art lovers, Bok Tower Department and the Over 55 Show Gardens also features a gallery 16 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Each year Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes Christmas Boat Parade Central Park is home to ten winners (the first Saturday in December). of the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Polk State College presents Competition. Coordinated by the Fall Fest and welcomes thousands Polk Museum of Art, the exhibition of visitors to its campus each autumn. is presented by the City of Winter Guests will find a vast array of arts Haven and various individual sponsors. and crafts on display and for sale. The “Central Park Stroll” is hosted Area attractions have many every spring to introduce the newest including “Bark in the Park” (every special events and observances. If you ® sculptures to the public. dog’s dream), karaoke contests, a are coming to visit LEGOLAND Community Fish Fry, Oktoberfest Florida, be certain to check their and various street parties. Celebrating calendar for hours of operation and the seasons and holidays, Winter special events when planning your Haven’s downtown is also the location visit. Bok Tower Gardens and Fantasy for events such as “Ghoul’s Night of Flight host a variety of events and Out,” “Carols in the Park” and “Snow annual festivals. Remember to check Central” among other family friendly their websites, too. activities. Many of these events and more Other family events can be found on the Winter Winter Haven’s Central Park around town include Haven Chamber’s is also home to festivals and activities Admiral Eycleshimer’s online calendar at throughout the year, including those Cardboard Boat Races www.WinterHaven that cater to the visual or fine arts, (always the Saturday Chamber.com. families or even pets. Main Street before Easter) and the Winter Haven presents many events

Arts and Culture Venues Arts on the Park Imperial Symphony Orchestra Polk Theatre (863) 680-2787 (863) 688-3743 (863) 682-7553 www.ArtsOnTheParkLakeland.org www.ImperialSymphony.org www.PolkTheatre.org Ballet Conservatory Lake Wales Arts Center Ridge Art Association (863) 299-1055 (863) 676-8426 (863) 291-5661 www.TheBalletConservatory.com www.lakewalesartscouncil.org www.RidgeArt.org Florida Dance Theatre Lake Wales Little Theatre Theater Winter Haven (863) 802-0399 (863) 679-8587 - www.LWLT.org (863) 294-SHOW (7469) www.FloridaDanceTheatre.org Lakeland Choral Society www.TheaterWinterHaven.com Florida Southern College www.LakelandChoralSociety.org The Lakeland Center (863) 680-4111 - www.FlSouthern.edu Lakeland Community Theatre (863) 834-8111 Frank Lloyd Wright Collection (863) 603-7529 www.TheLakelandCenter.com (863) 680-4444 www.LakelandCommunityTheatre.com The Symphony Guild of Winter Haven www.FlSouthern.edu Lakeland Concert Band - (863) 660-8428 (863) 299-2672 Haines City Community Theatre www.LakelandConcertBand.com More In-Depth Arts Information: (863) 421-1893 Polk State College Polk Arts Alliance www.HainesCityTheater.com (863) 297-1000 - www.Polk.edu (863) 804-0494 Harrison Center for the Performing Arts Polk Museum of Art www.PolkArtsAlliance.org (863) 499-2855 (863) 688-7743 www.HarrisonArts.com www.PolkMuseumofArt.org 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 17 Grape Expectations Fine Wines (863) 318-8800 Delicious www.grapeexpectationsfinewine.com Iam Pasta Cafe Inc. Dining (863) 508 7433 - www.iampastacafe.com International House of Pancakes (863) 326-1772 - www.ihop.com KC’s Big Dipper, Inc. (863) 324-7309 - www.kcsbigdipper.com Kentucky Fried Chicken hether you are looking for Chalet Suzanne Restaurant & Inn (863) 299-7177 - www.tfcfamily.com (863) 676-6011 - www.chaletsuzanne.com a “quick bite,” your favorite Longhorn Steakhouse Classic Homestyle Buffet (863) 295-7740 - www.longhornsteakhouse.com Wfast food or savory gourmet fare, (863) 293-7220 - www.classichomestylebuffet.com the Winter Haven area is home Manny’s Original Chophouse Dairy Queen - (863) 299-5165 (863) 293-9349 - www.mannyschophouse.com Wto a number of delightful restaurants. El Norteno Restaurant McDonald’s (863) 298-0993 Arabella’s Ristorante (863) 293-4531 - www.mcdonalds.com www.elnortenosmexicanrestaurant.com (863) 293-1797 - www.arabellasristorante.com McGillicuddy’s Bar & Grill

Bean & Grape Cafe, LLC Elmo & Linda’s Magical Dining (863) 875-6916 (863) 514-5382 (863) 299-8140 - www.beanandgrapecafe.com Old Man Frank’s - (863) 294-9179 Bebo’s Marina - (863) 875-5646 Fred’s Southern Kitchen Winter Haven, LLC Olive Garden Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub (863) 595-1190 - www.fredssouthernkitchen.com (863) 294-6641 - www.olivegarden.com (863) 293-9464 - www.beefobradys.com Gary’s Oyster Bar & Seafood House Outback Steakhouse Blue Room - (863) 324-7200 (863) 956-5055 - www.garysoysterbar.com (863) 295-9800 - www.outback.com Bob Evans, Inc. Grand Asian Buffet Park View RestaUrant (863) 679-2974 - www.bobevans.com (863) 293-1288 - www.thegrandasianbuffet.com (863) 324-5950 Carrabba’s Italian Grill Plaza Cafe - (863) 294-2325 (863) 293-6635 - www.carrabbas.com Red Lobster (863) 294-8844 - www.redlobster.com Richard’s Fine Coffees (863) 291-3082 - www.richardsfinecoffees.com Schack’s Bar-B-Q - (863) 324-1537 Smokin Jim’s Barbeque (863) 965-0230 - www.smokinjimsbbq.ws Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q (863) 293-4744 - www.sonnysbbq.com Subway # 13268 (863) 293-5011 - www.subway.com Tanners Pub (863) 294-7220 - www.tannerspub.com Tapping The Vine, LLC (863) 268 8263 - www.tappingthevine.com Texas Cattle Company Catering (863) 604-1515 - www.texascattlecompany.net The Seasoned Stone (863) 875-5756 - www.randrchutney.com Tijuana Flats Burrito Company (863) 206-2741 - www.tijuanaflats.com Tropical Smoothie Café (863) 295-7988 - www.tropicalsmoothie.com Tsunami Sushi (863) 293-2395 - www.tsunamisushi.us Yogurt Grove (863) 875-6990 - www.yogurtgrove.com

18 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Plenty of “Sh-opp ortunities!”

hopping venues in Winter Haven are plentiful. From Sdepartment stores such as Macy’s Sto boutiques and consignment shops to antiques, our retailers welcome you and your family. Downtown Winter Haven offers a number of stores with elegant merchandise, crafts and gifts. You’ll find florists, upscale gift shops, antique stores and a fabulous array of restaurants. It’s a great place to find that something special. Don’t miss such unique stores as “Little Studio” and “Andy Thornal Company – Gateway to Adventure Since 1945”

– both destinations themselves. The US Highway 17 corridor, Cypress Gardens Boulevard and Cypress Gardens Road feature a number of interesting retail centers. Search our database at www.WinterHavenChamber.com for specific interests. For the seriously dedicated . . . shopping is an art. Winter Haven can definitely be your gallery.

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 19 Lake Ida Beach Resort* 2524 Lake Alfred Road, Winter Haven Stay and Play (863) 293-0942 - Fax (863) 293-5951 www.lakeidabeachresort.com • 20 units, 1 & 2-room efficiencies, pool. Accommodations Lake Roy Beach Inn & Suites* 1823 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven (863) 324-6320 - Fax (863) 324-2750 www.lakeroybeachinn.com Camp Mack’s River Resort • 33 rooms, 1 & 2 room efficiencies, pool. Hotels and Inns 14900 Camp Mack Rd., Lake Wales Best Western Plus (800) 243-8013 - (863) 696-1108 Auburndale Inn & Suites Fax (863) 696-2924 Bed and Breakfasts 1008 US Hwy. 92 W www.campmack.com Chalet Suzanne Restaurant & Inn* Auburndale • Motel: 40 rooms, pool, RV & Cabin 3800 Chalet Suzanne Dr., Lake Wales (863) 551-3400 rental also available. (800) 433-6011 - (863) 676-6011 Fax (863) 551-3437 Hampton Inn Winter Haven Fax (863) 676-1814 www.bestwestern.com/ www.ChaletSuzanne.com 202 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven auburndaleinnandsuites • 26 guestrooms, pool. (863) 299-9251 • 55 rooms, pool, computer in every room. Fax (863) 401-9388 www.hamptoninn.com/winterhaven Condos and Best Western Park View Hotel* • 88 guest rooms, pool, free wifi. 5651 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven Holiday Inn of Winter Haven Vacation Rentals (800) 247-2799 - (863) 324-5950 Home Away Vacation Rentals 200 Cypress Gardens Blvd. Fax (863) 324-2376 www.homeaway.com/vacation-rentals/ Winter Haven www.bestwesternparkview.com florida/disney-orlando/r149 (863) 292-2100 - Fax (863) 292-2101 • 174 rooms, 13 1- & 2-BDRM suites, www.holidayinn.com/winterhavenfl some with Jacuzzis, pool, Legoland Beds & • 112 guest rooms, king suites available, Bricks partner. Campgrounds pool, Legoland Beds & Bricks partner. and RV Parks Camp Mack’s River Resort* 14900 Camp Mack Road, Lakes Wales (863) 696-1108 - Fax (863) 696-2924 www.campmack.com • 250 RV sites, 10 cabins, pool. Apartments & Condos Apartment Finder www.apartmentfinder.com Briarcrest at Winter Haven (863) 293 3350 www.robbinspropertyllc.com Carlton Arms of Winter Haven 7676 Carlton Arms Blvd., Winter Haven (863) 875-1700 - Fax (863) 875-1780 www.carltonarmsofwinterhaven.com Riverlake Apartments 4200 Mahogany Run, Winter Haven (863) 324-1072 - Fax (863) 318-9942 Manufactured Homes Colony Club Mobile Home Estates (863) 294-4969 Swiss Village (863) 294-4591 - www.cfrresales.com

*Accepts small pets 20 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Churches CenterPoint Community Church Places of 133 Ruby Lake Drive Winter Haven (863) 324-7915 Worship www.CenterPointChurch.org First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven 637 6th Street, NW St. Matthew Catholic Church Winter Haven 1991 Overlook Drive, Winter Haven (863) 294-3121 (863) 324-3040 www.FirstPresWH.org www.stmatthewwh.catholicweb.com Heartland Community Church St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 205 Farnot Street SW 656 Avenue L, NW, Winter Haven Winter Haven (863) 298-8485 863-299-7797 www.stpaulsepicopalchurch.us www.heartchurch.org Winter Haven Nazarene Hope Presbyterian Church 244 Avenue D SW, Winter Haven 2100 Cypress Gardens Blvd. (863) 293-0690 Winter Haven www.winterhavennazarene.org (863) 324-6382 www.hopepreswh.org Synagogues St. Joseph Catholic Church Temple Beth Shalom 532 Avenue M, NW 1029 Bradbury Road, Winter Haven Winter Haven (863) 292-0722 (863) 294-3144 - www.stjosephwh.org www.bethshalompolk.org

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 21 Becoming a Resident

inter Haven is a great place to call home for manyW different reasons. The cost of living here is typically lower than Wthe national average, making the Chain of Lakes City a practical place to settle. Residences ranging from apartments to single-family homes and town homes to waterfront estates offer a variety of options. City parks, trails and other recreational amenities have grown significantly throughout the past decade. There is ample access to our lakes for boaters, and our parks offer a variety of recreation and exercise options. Here are just a few beautiful locations ... comprising 65 elementary schools, n Lake Howard Nature Park 19 middle schools and 18 high schools, which include various magnet, choice n Lake Hartridge Nature Park and charter schools, career centers, n Lake Maude Nature Park adult schools and alternative schools. n Martin Luther King Park The district currently serves more (Lake Silver) than 90,000 students and is the largest employer in Polk County with nearly n Trailhead Park 13,000 employees. Many private and and Chain of Lakes Trail parochial schools also exist to serve (3.6 miles starts behind City Hall students from kindergarten through and travels north to Lake Alfred) graduation. n Central Park (downtown) Outdoor Polk has been recognized as Sculpture Exhibition, fountain nineteenth in the nation for the number members contributed their time as n of teachers certified by the prestigious Winter Haven Public Library volunteers in Polk schools last year, National Board for Professional (Downtown on the park) with more than 1.2 million hours Teaching Standards. donated in district facilities. The Polk County Public School Certification is among district is among the largest districts the highest honors a teacher in the nation and ranks eighth largest can receive. in the Sunshine State. There are In addition, nearly 160 school sites and centers, 30,000 community

22 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Life’s Necessities POST OFFICES 111 W. Central Avenue (863) 299-7824 1401 1st Street, NW 293-5370 or (800) 275-8777

Utilities Electric: Tampa Electric Co. - (863) 299-0800 Gas: AmeriGas Propane - (863) 294-4159 Central Florida Gas (863) 293-2125 Telephone: Bright House Networks (863) 965-7766 Verizon - (800) 483-4000 Verizon Business - (800) 483-5000 Cable: Bright House Networks (863) 965-7766 Comcast - (863) 739-6077 Water: City of Winter Haven (863) 291-5678

REFUSE COLLECTION City of Winter Haven - (863) 291-5756 Polk County - (863) 284-4319

Social Security Office 1 (800) 772-1213

VEHICLES License Tags & Title - (863) 293-5551 Driver’s License - (863) 421-3202

Winter Haven Area Transport (863) 534-5500

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 23 Area Realtors

Brokers Realty of Central FL Choice-Dantzler Properties Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate (863) 294-6773 (863) 299-6710 (863) 294-7541 www.reneebutler.com www.choiceproperties.net www.floridamoves.com Chain of Lakes Realty, Inc. Judy B. Cleaves Properties, Inc. Collany Properties (863) 299-5555 (863) 299-5878 (863) 295-9886 www.chainoflakesrealty.com www.jbcleaves.com www.collany.com Crosby & Associates, Inc. (863) 293-5600 www.crosbyandassociates.net Florida Home Choice Realty, LLC (863) 412-2727 www.floridahomechoice.com Keller Williams Realty (863) 508-3000 www.KW.com MiDfloriDa Real Estate Sales, LLC (863) 299-9988 www.midfloridasales.com Norris & Company Realty, LLC (863) 875-5583 www.michaelanddeenorris.com Pioneer Property Management, Inc. (863) 325-8834 Star Realty of Winter Haven, Inc. (863) 299-7827 www.starrealtyofwh.com Janice Summers Realty (863) 318-9500 Turner Properties of CFI (863) 324-1882 Village Realty of Winter Haven (863) 299-6767 www.phyllistcollins.com Watson & Watson, Inc., Realtors (863) 294-4149 www.watsonandwatsonrealtors.com John Wood Realty, Inc. (863) 324-9663 www.johnwoodrealty.com

24 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Municipal Leadership

he City of Winter Haven functions under a commission- Tmanager form of local government. TThe City Commission consists of five members, elected at large, who hold office for four years. The municipal election is held in September of odd-numbered years. The City Commission appoints a City Manager who is the CEO of the municipal corporation. While the City Commission acts as the legislative (Front row, left to right) City Commissioner Jamie Beckett, Mayor Pro Tem Nathaniel Birdsong, Mayor J. P. Powell, City Commissioner Steven Hunnicutt and City Commissioner Peter Chichetto. body of the City, the day-to-day (Back row, left to right) City Manager Dale Smith, City Attorney John Murphy and City Clerk Dorothy Johnson operations of the City are directed by the City Manager. Commissioners in office for more than nine months are eligible to serve as Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem. They are elected by the City Commission at the second meeting in October. The Mayor presides at all meetings of the Commission. The City of Winter Haven employs almost 500 staff members who serve in various departments including: Support Services, Community and Economic Development, Executive Services, Technology Services, Community Services, Financial Services, Fire Services, Police Services and Utility Services. Interested in learning more? Please visit www.mywinterhaven.com or call City Hall at (863) 291-5600. “Like” City of Winter Haven, Florida on Facebook and follow us at mywinterhaven on Twitter!

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 25 26 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Home Town Colleges

Area Institutions of Higher Learning Florida Southern College 863-680-4111 - www.flsouthern.edu Keiser University (863) 682-6020 - www.keiseruniversity.edu POLK STATE COLLEGE (863) 297-1000 - www.polk.edu Southeastern University (863) 667-5000 - www.seuniversity.edu University of South Florida Polytechnic (863) 667-7000 - www.poly.usf.edu Warner University (800) 309-9563 - www.warner.edu Webber International University College to Polk State College and (800) 741-1844 - www.webber.edu modified its mission to reflect the Webster University change. During 2011, Polk State (863) 687-9309 - www.webster.edu olk State College was founded unveiled a completely new mascot Two Technical Schools: in 1964 to serve the higher and logo design – Soar Eagles! Peducation needs of Polk County, Ridge Career Center Polk State College continues (863) 419-3060 Florida. Over the years, Polk State to be an open-access community schools.polk-fl.net/ridge/generalinfo.htm PCollege has undergone tremendous college with programs and services Traviss Career Center growth and change. that reflect the diversity of its students 863-499-2700 - www.traviss.edu The first academic year (1964) and the dynamic needs of its started with 1,107 students in community. Approximately 73 percent temporary quarters on the Bartow Air of Polk State College’s credit students Arts (AA) degree. Additionally, Base. Today, the College annually are part time, 63 percent are female, Polk State College offers 30 Associate serves more than 15,000 credit and and more than 33 percent are racial/ in Science (AS), 27 Associate in 11,200 non-credit students in locations ethnic minorities. Applied Science (AAS) degrees, throughout Polk County. Winter Haven The College and one Bachelor of Applied Science is the home of Polk State is a multi-campus (BAS) degree with four areas of College’s first permanent institution where concentration. Polk State College campus with 21 buildings on an estimated offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing a 99-acre site overlooking 70 percent of (BSN) degree. Since opening in 1964, Lake Elbert. graduates receive Polk State College has produced more In July 2009, the the Associate in than 35,000 graduates. College changed its name from Polk Community 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 27 Outstanding Healthcare

inter Haven counts its medical and allied health Worganizations among its finest Wresources. Winter Haven Winter Haven Hospital offers diverse healthcare services, educational offerings and health screening opportunities. Established in 1926, the hospital has grown to include several centers of excellence including the Bostick Heart Center, the Cassidy Cancer Center and nationally recognized Stroke Center. More recently the hospital has affiliated with the University of Florida, College

are coupled with top-quality training The Regency Medical Center for Winter Haven Hospital’s physicians The Regency Medical Center and nurses. The hospital is Polk is under the umbrella of Winter Haven County’s first healthcare organization Hospital. A facility for women and to achieve Magnet status (2008). infants, the Regency is a 61-bed Winter Haven Hospital joins hospitals specialty hospital with a primary across the country – about five percent focus on state-of-the-art maternity and of College of Medicine, Department of the nation’s total – to be recognized surgical care. Recently, the Regency of Urology to establish the Center for excellence in patient care. Hospital was nationally recognized with for Urology and Robotics Institute. staffers worked for more than five a “Golden Stethoscope” award for This brings comprehensive high- years to meet the program’s rigorous quality in the area of maternal and quality urological care to Central requirements. neonatal care – a recognition based Florida. Sijo Joseph Parekattil, MD Winter Haven Hospital is the on performance measures for clinical is fellowship-trained in advanced largest private employer in East quality outcomes, clinical processes laparoscopy/robotics and in Polk County with more than 2,500 and resources. microsurgery and male infertility. employees and 300 board-certified At the University of Florida College physicians. The Heart of Florida of Medicine/Shands Healthcare, he has organization and Regional Medical Center performed more robotic microsurgeries has been Heart of Florida Regional than any other surgeon in the world. recognized as a Medical Center, a 200-bed The state-of-the-art patient care, “Best Place to acute-care hospital, is located advanced technology and equipment Work” by PolkWorks. north of Winter Haven on Hwy. 27 in Haines City. 28 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Offering a full spectrum of services and resources, HOF is supported by more than 170 physicians representing various medical specialties. Heart of Florida operates Urgent Care Cypress in Winter Haven, a facility that offers timely care for many illnesses and injuries. Urgent Care Cypress also provides x-rays and lab work.

Lake Wales Medical Center The Lake Wales Medical Center is a 160-bed facility with 50 active physicians serving the medical needs of the residents and visitors of the community of Lake Wales. The 500 hospital employees provide a broad range of both inpatient and outpatient services. The medical center recently opened a new wing featuring 32 private rooms designed for single occupancy for better efficiency and more comfortable care.

Bartow Regional Medical Center Bartow Regional Medical Center is a 72-bed acute care facility serving south Lakeland, Bartow, Mulberry, Ft. Meade, southwest Winter Haven and south Polk County. It is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals, has a 188-member medical staff and employes 450. The hospital offers emergency services, inpatient and outpatient surgical services, cardiac catheterization, wound care/hyperbaric medicine, women’s center, intensive care, progressive care, post-surgical care, rehabilitation services, dialysis and lithotripsy. Winter Haven and the surrounding areas also feature several outpatient surgical centers such as the Eye Surgery & Laser Center, LLC; Day Surgery Center and the Winter Haven Ambulatory Surgical Center.

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 29 30 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Medical Numbers Bartow Regional Medical Center Rediscover (863) 519-1402 Blood Banks of Mid-florida B REAST E NLARGEMENT, (863) 297-1840 R EDUCTION you & L IFTS Bond Clinic, Pa It’s amazing what happens when you feel good about yourself. Self-esteem climbs to heights you (863) 293-1191 S ECONDARY B REAST never dreamed possible. Confidence becomes Central Florida Cancer Institute E NLARGEMENT a part of you – permanently. A smile warms (863) 293-6375 S URGERY your face in the morning when you wake, and you think to yourself... Day surgery Center F ACE L IFTS/ “this is going to be a great day.” E YELID S URGERY (863) 293-8471 L ASER S KIN Gessler Clinic, P.A. First Care Winter Haven R ESURFACING 635 First Street North B OTOX (863) 299-2420 Winter Haven, FL 33881 Receptionist (863) 298-3354 Gessler Clinic N OSE, C HIN, C HEEK RICHARD Office Direct (863) 298-3275 (863) 294-0670 & EAR R EPROFILING RADOCHA MD,FACS www.radocha.com Haines City HMA Urgent Care, LLC L IPOSUCTION & T UMMY T UCKS Board Certified (863) 325-8185 American Board of Plastic Surgery Board Certified B ODY C ONTOUR S URGERY Heart of florida American Board of Surgery regional Medical Center Commitment to Excellence (863) 422-4971 lake Wales Medical Center (863) 676-1433 Osceola Regional Medical Center (407) 846-2266 Polk County Health Department (863) 519-7900 Winter Haven ambulatory surgical Center (863) 291-4000 Winter Haven Hospital (863) 293-1121

Hospices Cornerstone Hospice (863) 291-5560 Good shepherd Hospice (863) 297-1880 Hope Hospice & Healthcare Services (863) 688-4715

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 31

April Bloomin’ Arts Festival - Bartow Calendar of Chain of Lakes Festival - Winter Haven Easter Sunrise Service Bok Tower Gardens Events www.BokTowerGardens.org Mustangs & Mustangs Fantasy of Flight www.FantasyofFlight.com There’s something for everyone – activities March Sun ’n Fun Fly-In - Lakeland are aplenty year round in Central Florida. Bach Festival of Central Florida www.Sun-n-Fun.org Here is a sampling: Lake Wales - www.Bach May FestivalofCentralFlorida.org Pops Concert Under the Stars January Bok Tower Gardens Alafia River Rendezvous - Homeland Bloomin’ Arts Festival Bartow - (863) 533-7125 Mayfaire by the Lake - Lakeland www.FloridaFrontiersmen.org www.PolkMuseumofArt.org Special Performance Series Bluegrass, Clogging & BBQ Festival Auburndale Young People’s Concert Polk State College Polk State College Winter Haven - www.Polk.edu www.IntlMarketWorld.com Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow Central Park Art Festival June Auburndale Downtown Winter Haven Live at the Gardens Concert www.IntlMarketWorld.com www.RidgeArt.org Bok Tower Gardens Champagne & Shamrocks July February with the Florida Orchestra Fourth of July Celebrations Winter Haven Greek Festival Winter Haven Water Ski Championships Winter Haven - (863) 299-4532 Florida Strawberry Festival - Plant City Mulberry - www.USAWaterski.org Mardi Gras Festival - Lake Wales www.FLStrawberryFestival.com www.LWMardiGras.com Lake Wales Arts Show October Polk Senior Games Shores of Lake Wailes Cracker Storytelling Festival www.PolkSeniorGames.org www.LakeWalesArtsCenter.org Homeland - www.Polk-County.net

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*O1SJOUt0OMJOFt.PCJMF     4 4   '       4           SUNDAY   *27.;2> WINTER HAVEN, FLORIDA >> SUNDAY, MARCH 6, 2011 >> VOL. 100, ISSUE 177 *>.798:<,2. *99:8>.-*+87-2;;=.<89*A/8:  %" " "#        +=25-270*7.??*;<.?*<.:<:.*<6.7< 95*7<*7-.@<.7-270<1.;.?.:;A;<.6<8  :.;2-.7<;52>270.*;<8/%#  $ %#  %$#   $$           Scott pushes high-stakes initiatives on taxes, regulations and spending. /0+-) 0%+-+-)+1+-(3,,14+-)%,,%&0.11,.0+'%    Study: Health care, 9.*99:8>.-* working on a database to jack of the latest ideas pushed by those  58*7<8:.78 that up to 10,000.” to limit the ability of Floridians to - Naples meeting sponsored by the  >*<.<1.9852,.;<*<287Legoland owners also If that sounds like a tall or- O *''*1'*)#%)$!! #!,-1!''- 8(, der, it should be noted that *), %*).!,)!. who want to reduce the size and sue businesses, health-care provid -*6*0.-+A=::2,*7.     1*:5.A27   during the building boom be-  8(- scope of government. ers and others. - involved with Orlando tween 2004 and 2006, Poinci- O!--%*).%(!'%)!     ana’s population soared past Among initiatives on the 2011 Under Scott’s campaign man   70,000. The community that For more informationThe onpair areany accused' of" ofour ment facilities,products, according please visit crosses the Polk and Osceola legislative calendar will be efforts   tra of “let’s get to work,” the to a company news release. county line and consists of 10  to reduce pensions for government LAKELAND — Winter Ha- Merlin’s contribution to the villages was one of the fastest vetting candidatesven is not the onlyfor Central chief project will include some of growing in the region.    Florida location attracting its best-known attractions, “It’s hard to call Poinciana www.LedgerMediaGroup.comthe eye of Legoland’s corpo- including Madame Tus- rural, and it’s hard to call academic  officerrate owner. throughsauds wax museum and a Merlin Entertainments 425-foot-high observation (!##  Group announced its plans wheel called the Orlando   ) e-mail.$873*8;5.A0:.?=9 this week to be part of a $100 “Eye.” <1274270;1.?8=5-million project on Interna- The project, which is tional Drive in Orlando. scheduled to open in 2013,  9pIF9@+.,86.*+*74.:#1.EN@CC@8DJ8;8DJI-Walk Orlando will fea- is spearheaded by Circle En-     +.,*6.,12./D7*7ture retail stores, restau-   ,2*58E,.:*<.*:<8/rants, bars and entertain-   - 58:2-*".0287*5.-2 LAKELAND,*5.7<.:27;<.*-*7- | Two members of a Uni   !<1.18;92<*52;05*-;1.# (*,21$/(',$4273  #$# "#"#  ### !$" & " &$##&  versity of South Florida Polytechnic & #$" #$ search"   "  Destination Winter Haven / $.("$/(55+(;"$5+,1*621/()6$1' 2012 (44;4$'/(;%26+5(1,2455,6'(-(&6('216+(%(1&+$)6(44(&(,8,1*6+(,44711(4730('$/5,16+(&/$55-2-     <1$/2)6+(  2;5$5.(6%$//,1$/5$6 +($.(/$1'(16(421 $674'$; " committee charged with vetting candidates     32 for chief academic officer were removed from- C#!$ $"! "$" the panel Friday for having “apparently dis    cussed search committee business outside of the Sunshine Law.” Man uses auto shop for business, pleasureThe  allegation   centered on an e-mail sent  !   ' "  Nov.!# 30 by Richard Plank, who directs USF- even want to know.” #!$ $"! "$" (95+,() It helpsPoly’s$1.:..7*0!:83.,< that he division has state- of innovation, to William Ar HAINES CITY — Wayne of-the ,855.,<;/88-270:..7art technology at his Acree Family Once Again Customizing, Repair Saddles Perhaps it’s appropriate Schumacher’s paint and body Hainesmitage,+*0;<1.7-2;<:2+=<.; City Paint director and Body of the division of information that Haines City High School coach Robin “Peanut” Wag- shop is his bread and butter, shop. <1.6<87..-A,125-:.7Not only do he and his but the bread and butter al- employeestechnology. repair other peo- man spent her most infl uen- lows him to feed his passion — ple’s cars damaged in colli- tial days wearing green and The two were assigned to check references  "%#$&$ sporting a hornet, the school’s being able to afford to restore sions, but they use the equip- C$"! "$" old cars and trucks, making ment andto fuel get their input hobby of on 76564(6&+('$405)4206+(&429'4($&+)24%($'5)4206+(4(9(2)some semi-finalists to become- mascot, on her clothing. them street worthy. restoring antique cars. They ",/' +,1(45 $674'$;$)6(41221'74,1*6+($117$/$4',54$53$4$'(,1am Acree, who’sDAVENPORT done leath- Wagman was before: A Mexican saddle. always buzz- His pride and joy is his will makeUSF them Poly’s into street chief or $.("$/(5 academic +275$1'5$66(1'('6+((8(16er workofficer/senior on and off over the asso   ing around the “truck in a bucket.” hot rods. years, is back in the saddle The saddle horn was fl at on top @FE3   ciate vice president for academic affairs. and it was huge. Stripped of its F Dude Ranch in Lake Wales. Haines City He rescued the truck from I@:BILE “We do it because of the cre- again. leather, the saddle’s frame was made “They told us we did the best job campus, en- a Mississippi farm yard, ativity, personalization“This is ofand great concernA brain tumor and in 1992 we took take brought it home in five-gallon  )$* +# passion that comes out when of wood. He guessed the saddle’s of refurbishing the saddles that couraging kids )$,**(+&/2,.0'(+ him out of the saddle repair they’d ever seen,” Judy Acree said. buckets and completely1- re$&- 00 ,+ we donthis one of typethese things,” of allegation business, very but over seriously,” the last year he saidowner did some steer roping. to participate . +&$  “They told us we can use them as a in sports, han- stored it. The red 1949 Chevy he said. Polkhas picked environmentalist up his trade again to Acree works with his wife, Judy. truck is his favorite.   (95+,() His passionKaren started White, young the USFsupplement official his retirement chairing check. theSam does the leather work while reference.” dling fundrais-    “It’s the nicest one I’ve ever "$;1( &+70$&+(42915$1'23(4$6(5$,1(5,6;$,162';9+(4( when he got his first car while Judy does much of the tooling, sil- Whether it’s a Western, English or ers, checking committee. “Saddle Sam” Acree works   IF9I@EB

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3 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 33

More Calendar of Events October Fall Fest - Polk State College Winter Haven - www.Polk.edu Haines City Fall Fest - Haines City www.Ci.Haines-City.Fl.us Lake Mirror Classic Auto Festival Lakeland www.LakeMirrorClassic.com Lake Wales Pioneer Days - Lake Wales www.CityofLakeWales.com Pops in the Park - Downtown Central Park, Winter Haven November Sunset & Symphony with orlando Philharmonic Bok Tower Gardens www.BokTowerGardens.org Roar n’ Soar - Fantasy of Flight Wings ’n Things Family Fun Fest Lakeland - www.Sun-n-Fun.org December Carols in the Park - Winter Haven www.MyWinterHaven.com Christmas at Pinewood Bok Tower Gardens City Lights/Cypress Nights - Countywide Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Chain of Lakes - Winter Haven

*Dates are subject to change

34 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 Private & Professional Golf Lake Region Yacht AThingsttractions To Do & Country Club Bok Tower Gardens (863) 324-6666 - www.lakeregionycc.com (863) 676-1408 - www.boktowergardens.org LPGA Futures Tour Fantasy of Flight (386) 274-6296 - www.lpgafuturestour.com (863) 984-3500 - www.FantasyofFlight.com Seaplane Rides & Lessons LEGOLAND® Florida Jack Brown’s Sea Plane Base (877) 350-LEGO - www.legoland.com (863) 956-2243 Airboat Tours Sports Camp Mack’s River Resort Lake Myrtle Sports Complex (863) 696-1108 - www.campmack.com (863) 551 4750 Bowling www.centralfloridasports.com

Cypress Lanes (863) 294-3295 - www.cypresslanes.com Imperial Lanes and King’s Burgers & BBQ (863) 949-4830 - www.theimperialbowl.com Fishing Central Florida Bucketmouths (863) 661-7226 - www.cfbucketmouths.com Camp Mack’s River Resort (863) 696-1108 - www.campmack.com Flight Training Preston Aviation - Biplane Rides (863) 956-2526 - www.PrestonAviation.net Tailwheels ETC. (863) 401-3592 - www.tailwheelsetc.com Museums, Art Galleries & Theatres E xplorations V Children’s Museum (863) 687-3869 - www.explorationsv.com Polk Museum of Art Community (863) 688-7743 - www.polkmuseumofart.org Commitment Ridge Art Association, Inc. (863) 291-5661 - www.ridgeart.org is our game. The Ritz 100, Inc. (863) 295-9900 - www.ritztheatre100.org At Tampa Electric, our dedication to the community remains Theatre Winter Haven (863) 299-2672 - www.theatrewinterhaven.com strong – from sponsorships and volunteerism to service and Paintballing energy delivery. Life runs on energy – which is why we’ll be Action Paintball here this century and beyond. (863) 224-6915 - www.action-paintball.us 813-223-0800 (Hillsborough County) Public Golf 863-299-0800 (Polk County) Cypresswood Golf & Country Club (863) 324-6174 - www.cypresswoodcc.com 1-888-223-0800 (All other counties and out-of-state) Diamondback Golf Club (863) 421-0437 - www.diamondbackgc.net Willowbrook Golf Course (863) 291-5899 tampaelectric.com Lake Bess Golf Club Inc. (863) 326-9171 - www.lakebessgolfclub.com 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 35 Please Visit These Fine Chamber Members

Carlton Arms Lasater Flowers (863) 875-1700 (863) 294-3213 www.carltonarmsofwinterhaven.com www.lasaterflowersandgifts.com

Best Western Plus Auburndale Inn & Suites Preston Aviation - Bi-Plane Rides (863) 551-3400 (863) 956-2526 www.bestwestern.com/auburndaleinnandsuites www.PrestonAviation.net

Bob Evans Restaurant Tapping the Vine (863) 679-2974 (863) 268 8263 www.bobevans.com www.tappingthevine.com

Explorations V Winter Haven Christian School (863) 687-3869 (863) 294-4135 www.explorationsv.com www.WHCSonline.org

36 Destination Winter Haven / 2012 NISSAN Hill www.hillnissan.com 6401 Cypress Gardens Blvd. Winter Haven • (863) 299-2161

2012 / Destination Winter Haven 37 Newspapers News Chief Index of (863) 401-6900 - www.NewsChief.com The Ledger Information (863) 802-7000 - www.TheLedger.com Transportation Winter Haven Municipal Airport Gilbert Field - (863) 298-4551 AMTRAK (863) 294-9203 - www.Amtrak.com Emergency - Fire, Police & Ambulance - 911 Winter Haven Area Transit (WHAT) hank you to our advertisers Polk County (863) 688-7433 - www.RideCitrus.com Animal Control - (863) 499-2600 Miscellaneous for their loyal support! Courthouse/County Clerk - (863) 534-4540 Better Business Bureau - (407) 621-3300 www.PolkCountyClerk.net T www.CentralFlorida.BBB.org Humane Society - (863) 324-5227 / all Saints’ Academy Polk Works 1 4 www.HumaneSocietyofPolkCounty.org (863) 508-1100 - www.PolkWorks.org T / arabella’s Main Switchboard - (863) 534-6000 18 Social Security Office www.Polk-County.net / Bartow Regional Medical Center 1-800-772-1213 - www.SSA.gov 3 0 Property Appraiser - (863) 534-4777 Unemployment Office - 1-800-204-2418 / Bright smiles of winter haven www.PolkPA.org 31 www.FluidNow.com / Bond Clinic Sheriff’s Department Info - (863) 298-6200 3 9 Attractions / Carlton Arms www.PolkSheriff.org 21 Voter Registration - (863) 534-5888 American Water Ski Hall of Fame 15 / CenterState Bank www.PolkElections.com (863) 324-2472 - www.USAWaterski.org Bok Tower Gardens - (863) 676-1408 / Cheryl Beckert, State Farm ins. City of Winter Haven 7 www.BokTowerGardens.org www.MyWinterHaven.com / Cross Fernandez & Riley Camp Mack River Resort 2 3 Chain O’Lakes Convention Center (863) 696-1108 - www.CampMack.com / CSX & Recreation Complex / Leisure 2 6 Fantasy of Flight - (863) 984-3500 / Eye Specialists of Mid Florida Services Dept. - (863) 291-5656 www.FantasyofFlight.com 2 9 City Hall - (863) 291-5600 / fantasy of Flight ® 13 Northeast Recreation Center - (863) 291-5675 LEGOLAND / fiat of Winter Haven Police Department Info - (863) 291-5858 (877) 350-LEGO - www.Legoland.com 34 - www.DisneyWorld.com 2 9 / fischer, Schemmer, Silbiger, Winter Haven Senior Center - (863) 291-5870 Moraczewski Library - (863) 291-5880 2 / Gessler Clinic 2 0 / Hampton Inn 3 3 / Heart of Florida 37 / Hill Nissan 2 0 / Holiday Inn 2 5 / John Wood Reality 11 / kC’s Big Dipper 3 2 / lEDGEr Media Group 15 / My Natures Delight 38 / Orchid Springs Animal Hospital 15 / Pengeo. inc. 2 4 / riverlake Apartment homes 31 / Dr. Radocha 8 / 6/10 Corporation 3 4 / tampa Electric Co. / Winter haven Chrysler Dodge 3 4 Jeep ram and Fiat / Winter Haven 23 family & Cosmetic Dentistry 40 / Winter Haven Hospital 1 9 / yOGurt Grove 38 Destination Winter Haven 2012 / Destination Winter Haven 39