LOCAL NEWS

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Polk County Public Schools is moving forward with controlled open enrollment for the 2021-2022 school year to allow students to attend a school other than their zoned school. PCPS will begin accepting applications for controlled open enrollment at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, April 5. Parents of students approved for transfers through the controlled open enrollment window will be notified by email once the enrollment period ends. For more information, visit polkschoolsfl. com/transfer or call 863-519-7600 (option 1).

GOLD MEDAL

Sylvia Nicholas-Patterson, a Harrison School for the Arts senior is a recipient of the Gold Medal Portfolio Award for 2021. The awards program, now in its 98th year, is described as “the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious scholarship and recognition program for young artists and writers in grades 7-12.” Past recipients include Truman Capote, Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath and Joyce Carol Oates. Nicholas-Patterson is one of just eight students (and the only one from Florida) to receive Gold Medal Portfolios for writing this year. The honor includes a $10,000 scholarship.

PEPPA PIG

Starting in 2022, families will squeal with delight as they jump into the playful world of Peppa Pig for an unforgettable day of adventure at the World’s First Peppa Pig™ Theme Park, only at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Designed to be the ultimate day for little ones, this all-new standalone theme park will feature multiple rides, interactive attractions, themed playscapes, and water play areas—complete with “muddy puddles” of course—and fun live shows daily, all based on instantly recognizable locations from the globally popular brand. peppapigthemepark.com/florida

LEMUEL GEATHERS

On Tuesday, March 2nd, former Mayor Lemuel Geathers passed away. Geathers served as Winter Haven’s first Black mayor and city commissioner. He played a significant role in the desegregation of schools, businesses, and organizations in Polk County. As a community leader and WWII veteran, Geathers will be remembered as a patriot, educator, and mentor. Flags were flown at half-staff at the Polk County Courthouse, the City Hall of Winter Haven, and the State Capitol in Tallahassee on March 13th.

50 YEARS STRONG

Congratulations to Winter Havenite, George A. Kalogridis! He started his 50-year Disney career as an opening day Cast Member at Walt Disney World in 1971. In addition to currently serving as president of Disney Park’s Segment Development and Enrichment team, he is also Global Ambassador for the upcoming Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration that kicks off Oct. 1st. Congratulations on your milestone!

LEADER IN TRAINING

The City of Winter Haven’s Teen Volunteer Program also called Leader In Training (LIT) is for high school students between the ages of 15-17 years old that are interested in earning community service hours. LITs earn hours volunteering for summer camp programs assisting Camp Counselors with crafts & activities. Guidelines & Procedures are listed online at winterhaven.seamlessdocs.com/f/3mrdqkeycle5. If you are unable to fill out the online application, applications are available for pick up at the AdventHealth Fieldhouse (210 Cypress Gardens Blvd.) or Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center (801 MLK Blvd. NE). Due May 7th.

WARM SUN

The Magnolia Water Tower located in downtown Winter Haven underwent major maintenance including a fresh coat of paint. The City of Winter Haven contracted with Steven Brothers Painting to make the needed repairs and paint the tower. The tower was painted with a creamy color called “warm sun.” While there has been much dialogue about a special logo or graphic on the tower, it is still in the discussion stage. This initial neutral paint shade will serve as the first phase of the process. Once the partners involved reach an agreement, the base paint on the tower will prepare it for the second phase of additional painting.

HAPPY CAMPER

City of Winter Haven Summer Camp Registration begins for Residents & Fieldhouse Members on April 12th. Non-Resident Registration begins on April 19th. The online application link will be located at mywinterhaven.com under the Programs tab between the hours of 8:30a.m.- 4:30p.m. There are three choices for summer camps for kids up to the 8th grade. Cost, location & times vary.