NOV/DEC 2016
Winter Haven’s City Magazine
CRAFT BY THE PINTS / GLASS HOUSE POINT / GENERATIONAL DWELLING WINTER IS COMING / THE NEXT HOME RUN
PROTECT YOUR SKIN YEAR-ROUND!
Call today for your Call today for your ✳ ✳ FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING Call today for your
Call today for your ✳ ✳Offer FREE SKIN CANCER valid for new patientsSCREENING only • Expires 12/31/16 ✳ FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING code LA50Nov when you call. Mention Mention code WHMDec when you call. ✳
✳
Mention code LA50Nov when you call.
Mention code LA50Nov when you call.
2
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Come see how we create WOW smiles, whether you are 7 or 70 Call Today to Schedule Your FREE Orthodontic Consultation (863) 533-3302 | www.easmiles.com 2110 Flamingo Drive Bartow, FL 33830 | 250 3rd Street NW, Suite #203 Winter Haven, FL 33881
NOVEMBER 2016
38 ON THE COVER Take a peek into Winter Haven’s craft beer revolution and discover how Grove Root’s Brewing Co. came to be. cover photo by Daniel Barceló
4
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Locations
Physicians and Providers
Cardiology Main CampusCardiology K., MD Jose R., MD Vigoreaux, Jose R., MD Vigoreaux, 500 E. CentralBhatia, Ave. Karan K., MDBhatia, Karan MDE.H., MD Willard, E.H., MD Octavio, MD Cosme, Octavio, Willard, Winter Haven,Cosme, FL 33880 863-293-1191Mustafa, Muhammad,Mustafa, MD Muhammad, MD Downtown Campus Endocrinology & Diabetes Endocrinology & Diabetes Downtown Winter Haven Miller, Christopher, MD Miller, Christopher, MD 199 Ave B. N.W. Winter Haven,Family FL 33881 Family Medicine Medicine 863-293-1191
R., MD Robinson, Koilpillai, Robinson, MD Arana, Flavio R., MD Arana, Flavio Koilpillai, MD Arango, Cecilia, MDAlexander S.,Magno, Alexander S., MD Arango, Cecilia, MD Magno, MD East Campus
Off of Cypress Gardens Blvd. GeneralOncology Surgery & Surgical Oncology General Surgery & Surgical across from Legoland Gambaro, Esteban, MD 3000 Woodmont Ave. Esteban, MD Gambaro, Winter Haven, FL 33884obert S., MD obert S., MD 863-293-1191
Hospitalists
Hospitalists
Ophthalmology Ophthalmology Ort, Michael G., MD Ort, Michael G., MD Orthopedic Surger Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine& Sports Medicine Lerner, Robert K., MD Lerner, Robert K., MD Morin, Paul M., MD Morin, Paul M., MD
Pain Medicine - I Pain Medicine - Interventional Mohammad A., MD Eldeeb, MohammadEldeeb, A., MD Pediatrics Pediatrics Nguyen, Kenny, MD Nguyen, Kenny, MD
Ophthalmology Carlucci, Joseph A., MD Carlucci, Joseph A., MD Shamim, Talha, MD Shamim, Talha, MD Adjacent to theRedlien, Main Campus Tan, MD Joseph, MD Tan, Joseph, MD Parker, MD Redlien, Parker, 506 Ave A S.E. Paul, Nisha, MD Nisha, MD Winter Haven,Paul, FL 33880 863-293-1191Internal ext. 3459Medicine Internal Medicine
P P Balogh, Jeremy S., DPT Balogh, Jeremy S., DPT
Pediatrics Lakhani, Sonali, MD Lakhani, Sonali, Reyes,MD Pamela, MD Reyes, Pamela, MD Adjacent to the Main Campus Lopez, Christopher, MDR., MD Rivera, Juan R., MD Lopez, Christopher, MD Rivera, Juan 45 Lake Elbert Drive S.E. Prieto, Jose, DO Prieto, Jose, DO Torres, Jorge, MD Torres, Jorge, MD Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-293-1191Nephrology ext. 3633 Nephrology
Podiatry & Foot S Podiatry & Foot Surgery Englert, Englert, Christopher, DPMChristopher, DPM Feldman, Marc, DPM Feldman, Marc, DPM
Farrell, Cathy, MD
Farrell, Cathy, MD Evelyn, MD Rentas, Evelyn, MD Rentas,
Hou, Jeffrey Peng, MDHou, Jeffrey Peng, MD McClendon, Michele L., DO McClendon, Michele L., DO Davenport Campus Sallman, Alan L., MDSallman, Alan L., MD In Cypress Physicians Building at Heart of Florida Neurology Neurology 40124 US Hwy 27, Suite 102 Rajguru, Shailesh, DO Rajguru, Shailesh, DO Davenport, FL 33837 863-293-1191Nurse ext. 4020 Practitioners Nurse Practitioners
Bridges, Stephanie, ARNP ARNPMiller, Emily, ARNP Marc Feldman,DPM / Stephanie, ARNP Bridges, Miller, Emily, Calderon, Amelia, Moore, Vicki C., ARNP Podiatry & Foot Surgery Calderon, Amelia, ANRP Moore,ARNP Vicki C., ARNP
4730 Exploration Ave. Lakeland, FL 33812 By Appointment Only
Oncology & Hematology Oncology & Hematology Hlalah, O. Abu, MD Hlalah, O. Abu, MD
Pickard, Martha, ARNP Carbone, Carrie, ARNP Pickard, Martha, ARNP Carbone, Carrie, ARNP 401 E. CentralCassady Ave. , Stephanie, ARNP Cassady, Stephanie, ARNP Rampersad, Michelle,Rampersad, ARNP Michelle, ARNP Winter Haven,Cayson, FL 33880 Ray,ARNP Brandi, ARNP Ray, Brandi, ARNP Barry, ARNP Cayson, Barry, 863-299-9100Davidson, KC, ARNPDavidson, KC, ARNP Reed, Deloris, ARNPReed, Deloris, ARNP Jones, Courtney, Jones, Courtney, CPNP Ritter, Cynthia, ARNP Ritter,CPNP Cynthia, ARNP 4900 Sun N Lake Blvd.#1 ARNP Jones, Lorrie, ARNP Jones, Lorrie, Rivera, Ruby A., ARNP Rivera, Ruby A., ARNP Sebring, FL 33872 ARNP Bobbie, ARNP Krieger, Kelly, ANRP Krieger, Kelly, Skukowski, Bobbie, ARNP Skukowski, 863-385-5506Lewis, Jami, ANRP Lewis, Jami, ARNP Torres, Heather, ARNP Torres, Heather, ARNP Linn-Gettel,Valadez, Jean, ARNP Linn-Gettel, Jean, ARNP Valadez, Jenifer, NP-C Jenifer, NP-C Miller, Christina, ARNP Widner, Linda G., ARNP ARNP Widner, Linda G., ARNP Located in the Miller, Orange Christina, Grove Plaza 1342 S.R. 60 East Obstetrics & Gynecology Obstetrics & Gynecology Lake Wales, FL 33853 Gabriel, Carlos I., MD Gabriel, Carlos I., MD Kenaan, Jana, MD Kenaan, Jana, MD 863-679-1552 Gatto, Vincent W., MD Gatto, Vincent W., MD Salamon, Eva J., MDSalamon, Eva J., MD By Appointment Only
863-293-1191
Physicians Assistant Physicians Assistant Rodriguez, Rodriguez, Christopher, PA Christophe
Pulmonology Pulmonology Jesse, MD Romeu-Velez, Jesse,Romeu-Velez, MD Rheumatology Rheumatology G. Bruce, MD Clement, G. Bruce,Clement, MD Sleep Medicine Sleep Medicine Jesse, MD Romeu-Velez, Jesse,Romeu-Velez, MD urgery urgery Iako vidis, Panagiotis, MD Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Jr., C. Jake, MD
Urology & Urologic Surger Urology & Urologic Surgery Lee, Kevin, MD Lee, Kevin, MD Romero, Claudio, MD Romero, Claudio, MD Vascular Surgery Vascular Surgery Iakovidis, Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Jr., C. Jake, MD Wound Care Wound Care Iakovidis, Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Jr., C. Jake, MD
www.BondClinic.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEATURES
30
18
38
SHELTER
CULTURE
TASTE
A rare glimpse into a classic, historical gem of Polk County heritage
This alternative indie rock band credits Winter Haven as the city where it all began
Grove Roots Brewing Co. brings people together in an atmosphere perfect for the whole family
GENERATIONAL DWELLING
6
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
GLASS HOUSE POINT
CRAFT BY THE PINTS
Keep innovating. Eighty-seven years of experience, but unlike any bank you’ve seen. Wauchula State Bank’s new Business Lounge stands at the forefront as a model in creating a contemporary, innovative banking experience. As a modern-day bank customer, you require stability, convenience, and true partnerships. You’ll find all three, and more, in our Business Lounge. Wauchula State Bank has served the Florida Heartland since 1929 as a family-owned, locally-managed, community bank offering cutting-edge services and technology assisted by a qualified banker, your true local partner. Let’s keep innovating, together.
347 W Central Ave 863-733-7010 www.wauchulastatebank.com
Winter Haven - Central Park Downtown
TABLE OF CONTENTS
46
64
PHILANTHROPY
PEOPLE
The Women’s Resource Center of Florida offers a new start for women in crisis
Former Tampa Bay Rays player Matt Diaz talks baseball and lessons he’s learned from the game
PROVIDING A GETAWAY
THE NEXT HOME RUN
DEPARTMENTS 12 FROM THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 14 CONTRIBUTOR BIOS 16 PHOTOGRAPHER BIOS 76 PUBLISHER'S NOTE
54
78 EVENTS
STYLE
WINTER IS COMING Stay comfortable, and stylish, throughout the cooler months ahead
8
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
80 OPENINGS 82 HISTORY
MESSIEH ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC Leader in Anterior hip replacement in Central Florida since 1991 Less invasive surgery for the active patient looking for a quick recovery and a quicker return to work
Two Locations 1601 Sixth Street , S.E. Winter Haven, FL 33880 863.419.9301 5 Ryant Blvd. Sebring, FL 33870 863.471.9700
Curt Patterson
Jason Jacobs • Brandon Patterson
PUBLISHER
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS
Brandon Patterson
Kristin Crosby
Daniel Barceló
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
MANAGING EDITOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Advertising ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ADVERTISING SALES
Curt Patterson Brandon Patterson, Jason Jacobs, Nathan Patterson
Editorial
Dr. Patel offers a complete roster of surgical & nonsurgical services tailored to satisfy a patient’s every need.
• Facelifts, Brow Lifts & Rhinoplasty • BOTOX ®, Dysport ®, Restylane®, Juvederm®, Radiesse®, Voluma® & Kybella® • Dermabrasion & Chemical Peels • Laser Resurfacing for Age Spots, Sun Damage and Wrinkles
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
COPY EDITOR
Drew Bennett, Ashley Bell Barnett, Leigh-Anne Hemenway Pou, Madison Beckett, Austyn Lindsey, Daniel Barceló Laura Burke
Creative DESIGNER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
OFFICE MANAGER
Emily Vila Dan Austin, Daniel Barceló, John Kazaklis, Tina Sargeant Deb Patterson
Circulation CIRCULATION DIRECTOR GENERAL COUNSEL
Jason Jacobs Ted W. Weeks IV
Published by Patterson Jacobs Publishing, LLC
863-904-6231
www.WatsonClinic.com/Patel Bella Vista Building 1755 N. Florida Avenue, Lakeland
Watson Clinic Highlands 2300 E. County Road 540A, Lakeland 10
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
WH is published bimonthly by Patterson Jacobs Publishing, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of The Lakelander is prohibited. WH is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. Contact Patterson Jacobs Publishing, P.O. Box 41, Lakeland, FL 33802 863.701.2707 • www.thewhmag.com Customer Service: 863.701.2707 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Does Your Heart Beat to Its Own Rhythm?
Learn About Heart Rhythm Management Visit WinterHavenHeart.org to see Dr. Rodrigo Bolaños, a cardiovascular electrophysiologist at Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center, explain the different types of heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias) and the symptoms, as well as the procedures he performs to treat and cure heart rhythm disorders.
Learn more: WinterHavenHeart.org
Dr. Rodrigo Bolaños
Winter Haven Hospital Bostick Heart Center 200 Ave. F N.E. Winter Haven, FL 33881 WH MAGAZINE
BC1607492-1016
NOVEMBER 2016
11
LETTERS
FROM THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
WHY WINTER HAVEN? IT’S A QUESTION I GET ASKED A LOT in my role at the Chamber. What makes me want to stay here? To live here? To work so hard to enhance it as the best place to live, work, play, and raise a family? It can be summed up in one word: authenticity. Winter Haven has a unique character. Our history was built on entrepreneurs who left the comforts of the known and came to this “City of 100 Lakes,” to make a new life for themselves and their families. Their ingenuity elevated Winter Haven to one of the highest producers of citrus in the state and gave us the 24 canal-connected lakes. First used to transport their crop to the economic center of our downtown core, it is now a centerpiece of our inland coastal playground. In the words of my good friend Mark Adkins, “No other city in the Sunshine State lives out and purveys the authentic Florida lifestyle in a more creative, enthusiastic, and future-focused way.” Elements of our history have been reimagined for future generations. Grove Roots Brewing Company has taken the citrus heritage and infused it into Winter Haven’s first craft brewery. The Roe family continues to reinvent the citrus industry with their creative
Katie Worthington
President/CEO of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce
12
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
mixtures through Noble Juice, and new companies continue to evolve our agricultural heritage. Never in my 10 years that I’ve lived in Winter Haven have I felt as much excitement and enthusiasm for the city as I do now. Locals with a love of community have invested millions in the downtown core to create a center of commerce and creativity. Music has been reborn with the restoration of Derry Down. Young entrepreneurs who probably swore they’d never come back have come back and started their businesses here. To be 33 and given an opportunity to make a difference in the community you love doesn’t happen everywhere. This, to me, is what really makes our city stand out. The people — their diversity and their collaboration — that is what makes up Winter Haven’s secret sauce. To be authentic, per Merriam-Webster, is to be real and genuine. That is what Winter Haven is to me. That is what has kept me here. That is what the pages of WH will show you. We embrace our history and we build upon it. It’s not about change; it’s about taking the foundation that has been given to us and building upon it for future generations.
HERE COMES THE NEIGHBORHOOD
LIVE. WORK. PLAY. RainGarden Residential Complex
LLC
Grove Roots Brewing Company
863-299-1195 56 FOURTH STREET, NW 2ND FLOOR WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881
WWW.SIXTENLLC.COM Thai Haven Restaurant
CONTRIBUTORS
Trust the Tax Professionals
Firm of Enrolled Agents Specializing in -PERSONAL -CORPORATIONS -TRUSTS
863.294.5462 314 Avenue K SE Winter Haven, FL 33880 14
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
DREW BENNETT PEOPLE
DANIEL BARCELO STYLE
ASHLEY BELL BARNETT SHELTER
Drew Bennett is a lifelong Winter Haven resident. He and his wife Ashley (also college sweetheart) have four children: Canaan, Isaac, Abigail, and Sarah. A gratuate from FSU, Drew received his degree in communication studies. He pastors a local church, to contribute to the flourishing of his hometown. His passion is to give people permission to love living in Polk County.
Daniel Barceló is a multidisciplinary creative profesional leading the design and photography teams as creative director. He endeavors to grow the magazine’s brand and influence as it continues to empower and inspire creatives and the community at large.
Longtime Polk County resident Ashley Bell Barnett received her master's degree in public administration from USF. She went on to study organizational management, fundraising, and philanthropy at UCLA. Currently the marketing analyst for Workforce Education, Ashley also serves on many nonprofit and education boards. Her passions include her family, travel, a love for animals, exploring new cuisine, and serving her community.
AUSTYN LINDSEY PHILANTHROPY
LEIGH-ANNE HEMENWAY POU TASTE
MADISON BECKETT CULTURE
Austyn Lindsey is a Winter Haven native who moved away thinking she'd never return. But after finding her way back home, Austyn realized there’s no better comfort than being surrounded by family and friends. When she’s not hiking the Florida trails with her two-year-old son and fiancé, she’s working in the marketing department at Bok Tower Gardens.
Leigh-Anne Hemenway Pou is a Realtor and native of Winter Haven. A graduate of the University of Mississippi, she credits her time spent in the city of Oxford, MS, for cultivating her love of local cuisine. Leigh-Anne and her husband are proudly raising their family in Winter Haven.
A Winter Haven citizen since birth, Madison Beckett discovered her love for storytelling as a child, spending days in the local Public Library with her father. She began her writing career at 17, publishing her first book of poetry, Of All Things; Love. Madison is ecstatic to be a part of WH magazine and looks forward to showing more people the abundance of art that is thriving in Winter Haven.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
15
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Stone Law Group, P.L. is committed to providing legal services expertly tailored to your needs. We approach every client with a focus on integrity, confidentiality, compassion, and extraordinary results.
Professional, Compassionate & Responsive
DAN AUSTIN
TINA SARGEANT
Dan Austin is a Florida native photographer. He specializes in a unique style that combines the spirit of his subject with a detailed attention to lighting. Through this, Dan achieves a unique and well-thought-out aesthetic that can be seen in his images. danaustinphotography.com
Tina Sargeant has been professionally capturing the moments, events, and people of our region for many years. Her photography is driven by the ability to suspend time and create emotion, and her work embodies a passion for anthropology — people, culture, and stories. sargeantstudios.com
ESTATE PLANNING · ELDER LAW · PROBATE · BUSINESS LAW
WINTER HAVEN 314 AVENUE K, S.E. WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880 SEBRING 3200 US HIGHWAY 27 S., #307, SEBRING, FLORIDA 33870 CELEBRATION 1420 CELEBRATION BLVD., SUITE 200, CELEBRATION, FLORIDA 34747
863.439.4500 StoneLawGroupFL.com
16
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
DANIEL BARCELO
JOHN KAZAKLIS
Daniel Barceló is a multidisciplinary creative profesional leading the design and photography teams as creative director. He endeavors to grow the magazine’s brand and influence as it continues to empower and inspire creatives and the community at large.
John Kazaklis was born and raised in the DC Metro Area and came to Lakeland to study at Southeastern University in 2007. After graduating, John decided to make Lakeland his home because of the great quality of life and close-knit community. His fascination with different cultures and travel made him passionate about visual storytelling and sharing stories that typically go untold. He is currently the program director at Catapult Lakeland. istoria.life
DEDICATION • STRAUGHN • EFFECTIVE • PERSONAL • HONESTY • INTEGRITY ACCOUNTABILITY • COMPASSION • TURNER • QUALITY • EXCELLENCE PROFESSIONAL • RESPONSIBILITY • RESPECT
FRONT ROW: Douglas A. Lockwood III, Richard Straughn, Mark Turner TOP ROW: Alexander M. Landback, Marie Straughn
When you think of a law firm, only two words should come to mind. For more than 60 years, Straughn & Turner has been among Polk County’s most respected firms, an image that we‘ve cultivated through hard work and careful attention to our clients’ interest.
RICHARD E. STRAUGHN | MARK G. TURNER | DOUGLAS A. LOCKWOOD III MARIE R. STRAUGHN | ALEX M. LANDBACK AREAS OF PRACTICE
BUSINESS LAW • REAL ESTATE • CIVIL & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION • ESTATE PLANNING • TRUST & GUARDIANSHIP ELDER LAW • TRANSPORTATION • EMPLOYMENT • BANKING Providing 64+ Years of Business, Real Estate & Litigation Experience to Clients
255 Magnolia Ave. SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880 • straughnturner.com • 863-293-1184 WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
17
SHELTER
GENERATIONAL DWELLING Nestled among the confluence of timeless Florida citrus and decades-old oaks, this story began when two brothers from Illinois bought a lakefront property in the sparsely populated region of Central Florida. Surrounded by lush ornamental plants and a pathway adorned by orchids stood an enchanted home that would soon be the place to entertain and engage the people of the city. Step back into the early 1900s, a time when Florida was still the hidden gem of the South, and discover the Roe family’s home.
BY ASHLEY BELL BARNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AUSTIN STYLED BY LISA MALOTT OF WISH VINTAGE RENTALS
18
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
19
D
ating back to when the untouched land on Eagle Lake was first purchased, the owners were avid naturalists with a devotion to preservation of architectural beauty. Still today, two avocado trees from 1918 can be found on the property. While the house pays homage to what now would be considered old-fashioned, it was always well ahead of its time. In 1919, Gilman Drew, a zoologist and one of the original brothers who commissioned the house, urged his neighbors to contract with the electric company. Those homes soon became the first powered homes in Eagle Lake.
20
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Starting out in a bungalow built by Dr. Gilman Drew in 1914 for his beloved wife, Lena, the Drews lived in the humble abode as they prepared the large home alongside. Transcended into a tranquil, nostalgic haven, the house has been preserved by the Roe family for over 50 years. While raising their growing family in 1958 (seven kids in just 11 years), Willard and Marjorie Roe took on a complete overhaul of the 8,500-square foot house. Over a period of three years, it was modernized to include an intercom, a multi-room sound system, and the latest in kitchen appliances, along with many other modern automatic features.
The home now features a unique rectangular design pattern used on the doors and windows, including the pocket doors. The skillful, thorough, custom work of the home is a genuinely artful design. Each room was redesigned with a specific purpose or theme, while carrying a motif throughout the house. Some rooms are robed in wallpaper or stucco walls, while others are covered with a unique wood paneling featuring cherry, cypress, pine, or redwood. All the entertainment room floors are either specially imported tile, unique for each room, or narrow-gauge hardwood floors with patterns. During their residence at the big house,
The intricate motif is carried throughout the entire home.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
21
Marj and Willard were consummate entertainers. Updating their home to accommodate large numbers of guests for all type of events, the couple incorporated men’s and women’s bathrooms into the first floor. The kitchen contains over 50 feet of stainless steel countertops with four sinks. Well-equipped for formal sit-down dinners, the house could easily accommodate 50 people, indoor buffet parties for 250 guests, and outdoor parties during nice weather, comfortable for up to 500 guests. Themed parties, political fundraisers, birthdays, graduations, weddings, and holidays were 22
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
all occasions for the house to become an elaborate venue. Governors, senators, and many other legislators attended parties and fundraisers here. Community leaders and industry leaders were frequent guests. Very generous with their time and property, Marj and Willard were always looking for ways their home could bring awareness to social causes and benefit those around them. Their drive to entertain and host so many at the big house was to make the Winter Haven community a better place to live for all people.
The living room, along with the rest of the house, was created as venue space to entertain by the hundreds.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
23
24
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
THIS HOUSE, STILL VERY MUCH A PRIVATE, FAMILY HOME, REPRESENTS A RARE GLIMPSE INTO A CLASSIC, HISTORICAL GEM OF POLK COUNTY HERITAGE.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
25
The music room (vintage photos of the home's original owners) is often filled with song and family traditions.
Maintaining a home suitable for modern living, when its soul is worn in a past era, is a conundrum the Roes have grappled with for decades. With great diligence and elegant taste, the house emulates the original styling that both the Drews and elder Roes cultivated throughout its nearly 100-year legacy. The pride and meticulous care that current owners Quentin and Lori Roe take in their home is a testament to the love and memories that have been shared throughout the history of the estate. When they took occupancy of the home in 2001, the Roes performed some modernization on fixtures, plumbing, and electrical items but kept
26
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Burns
Flooring Kitchen Design &
Granite Tops
$37.99
10’x10’
Kitchen Cabinets
$2,100
Tile
”There are plenty of companies that can throw cabinets, counter tops and/or flooring into your space. Why not work with a company that UNDERSTANDS kitchen & bath functionality, and can handle the entire project start to finish? Being a state certified Residential Contractor, we are a step above the rest.….” --Owner, Derek Burns
Starting At
$0.89
LAKESIDE VILLAGE
Hardwood Starting At
$0.89
1470 Town Center Dr Lakeland, 33803 863-333-0780
HIGH POINT PLAZA 6256 Cypress Gardens Blvd Winter Haven, 33884 863-324-0300
TO LEARN THE HISTORY OF THIS HOME IS TO LEARN A LIFETIME OF REVERENT PRESERVATION. most of the original mid-century home and furnishings intact. The music room was an epicenter for family activities, a practice room for all sorts of childhood musical interests as well as a gathering place for holiday traditions. Its decor and utility from those times have been immaculately maintained. The home’s library features original and rare books, novels, and anthologies dating to the 1800s. To learn the history of this home is to learn a lifetime of reverent preservation. This house, still very much a private, family home, represents a rare glimpse into a classic, historical gem of Polk County heritage. Tucked away on Eagle Lake, the Roe family continues to preserve this architectural masterpiece.
28
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Actual K Team Listings
Cathy “K” Kluytenaar and
RELAX. YOU’RE HOME. The K Team is a family business started right here in Polk County. The Kluytenaar family and their wonderful team of talented professionals looks forward to assisting you in finding your dream home or selling your current home. Call today, we look forward to meeting you!
Zac Kluytenaar, Cathy "K" and Florrie Kluytenaar
HOW MUCH IS MY HOME WORTH?
WHERE SHOULD I MOVE?
Often asked but rarely answered correctly, this is a question that real estate professionals are faced with daily. Homeowners are being bombarded with information these days. Data has never been more readily available or easier to accumulate. The common misconception is that this information would allow property owners to make more accurate conclusions regarding the value of their home. Unfortunately, that isn’t necessarily the case. In an environment where every individual with a computer or mobile device can access endless data including Zestimates, recent sales, tax information, current active listings in the area and a plethora of other information, that does not mean that they have the knowledge, experience, expertise or resources to interpret that data effectively. At The K Team, we encourage our clients to educate themselves and review the information that is available. Put some questions, concerns and opinions together regarding the value of your home, then consult a qualified Realtor to address those points. Arranging a consultation with a Realtor to help assess the value of your property by no means obligates you to use their services or sell your home at all. We relish an opportunity to meet with clients and discuss their residence. We appreciate the opportunity to share our extensive market knowledge and build a relationship with a homeowner. Feel free to contact our team at any time to schedule an appointment to discuss your property and whatever questions you may have. We look forward to meeting you!
Relocations, expanding families, downsizing, financial concerns and personal preferences are just a few reasons individuals decide to purchase a new residence. Once that decision has been made or is even being considered, where does everyone start searching? That’s right, the internet. But where should you search? Zillow, Realtor.com, Trulia and many others provide search engines that should yield extensive results. However, how accurate is all that data? Who is interpreting that information and verifying it? With various search engines and sites providing potentially suspect information, we have decided to add a new feature for our clients. Our new website, yourkteam.com, has a search tool we think you will love. It offers the most comprehensive and up to date information available in an easy to use format. Furthermore, we have filters that can help narrow your results and features that will be very useful in your research. Visit our website and give us some feedback. We made it to serve our community so we will certainly consider your opinion regarding its functionality. Regardless of where you search, please use a Realtor to help interpret the results and guide your decisions. Helping our clients find their dream home is our mission at The K Team and our extensive knowledge and resources can make that a reality.
YOURKTEAM.COM
FIND US
CONTACT US
429 1ST ST SOUTH WINTER HAVEN FL. 33880
863.604.6220 INFO@YOURKTEAM.COM
YOURKTEAM.COM
CULTURE
30
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
GLASS HOUSE POINT
BY MADISON BECKETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AUSTIN STYLED BY ABDIEL GONZALEZ
While all musicians aspire to make it big, to be a household name, few ever step out to make it happen. And when it’s a rock band of young, driven individuals, it’s no small feat. But after several performances at local venues, tours throughout Central Florida, and the recent release of their EP Love Lives in Dark Places, Glass House Point is such a band in the making.
32
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Band members from left to right: Ian Campbell, Dylan Graham, Jansen Valk, Dylan Methot
W
hen you first stepped into your career, it likely began in an office, maybe a coffee shop, or quite even over a phone call. But for the four-piece alternative indie rock band, Glass House Point, it all started in a Chili’s. Glass House Point, consisting of Dylan Graham (vocals, rhythm guitar), Ian Campbell (bass), Dylan Methot (lead guitar, mandolin), and Jansen Valk (drums), turned their favorite hobby into their dream job three years ago. They all found their way to their instruments of choice in different ways,
but when asked why they started a band, the four young men all agreed, “We just wanted to play music.” A rather innocent beginning, just four guys who loved music and had an idea. Their first performance was in a school talent show before they even had a name. A teacher gave them a temporary name, which they dropped for “Glass House Point” when Campbell found it while clicking through various Wikipedia articles. Glass House Point credits Winter Haven for giving the group the opportunity to get their foot in the door as an established band. “We got started in Winter Haven,” Campbell says. Three of the four members of
Glass House Point grew up in Lakeland, but it was in Winter Haven where they had the opportunity to perform as real musicians. Due to restaurants in Winter Haven hiring them to perform, the band was able to raise the funds to record their EP Love Lives in Dark Places. Their EP release party was held at their favorite local venue, Jessie’s Lounge in downtown Winter Haven. When the EP release party is brought up, all four guys begin to share their favorite memories of the show. Almost a year since the band’s EP release, their creative expression and stage presence have grown immensely. To release an album at 18 and 19 years old, let
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
33
TO RELEASE AN ALBUM AT 18 AND 19 YEARS OLD . . . WAS AN INCREDIBLE ACCOMPLISHMENT.
34
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Glass House Point performs at a food truck rally hosted by Jessie’s Lounge in downtown Winter Haven.
alone one as artistically complex and developed as theirs, was an incredible accomplishment. That show was where they were first able to present themselves as true artists. Collectively, the group pins that as their best performance experience in Winter Haven. Now, Glass House Point plays in Winter Haven venues like Jensen’s Corner Bar, Jessie’s Lounge, The Fire Restaurant, and Tanners Lakeside regularly — the same restaurants that gave them a shot and
Photo by Amanda Laferriere
ultimately made their careers into something much bigger. Their fan base and ability to perform in venues other than their school and hometown have added a new aspect to their music and overall creative lives. Jansen says, “Meeting new people and getting to associate with new musicians and getting inspiration from that,” have been some of his favorite parts of performing and being a part of Glass House Point. Within the walls of their rehearsal space, with the music absent, WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
35
the group interacts just like they’re brothers. Yet once onstage, the band coordinates and moves as a unit. Speaking to the young artists and seeing how happy they are in what they do is nothing short of inspiring. Their motivation is still as simple as when they started. Watching the band laugh about their shared memories from vacations and holidays is the closest thing to watching a family reminisce at a Thanksgiving Day meal. But being in a band isn’t as glamorous as movies and TV shows can often make them seem. These young musicians are running a business, and with a business comes disagreements, tough decisions, and a whole lot of stress. Methot says “creating
something that’s different” can be a big obstacle for a band. Glass House Point has also undergone a lot of changes recently, going from a five-piece band to a fourpiece band, “[We’re] settling into a new environment,” says Jansen. The obstacles these four have faced through the evolution of their band, and the resilience they’ve held in continuing to grow and progress, show how truly important this band is to them. They’ve done an incredible job maintaining a following in Polk County, but they’re nowhere near their goal, which is to be a national act, a household name. Specifically, Dylan Graham admits his hope is that soon all babies will be born saying “Glass House Point.”
GLASS HOUSE POINT ghpmusic.com facebook.com/glasshousepoint @glasshousepoint
36
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
EVERY FEATURE. EVERY PHOTO. EVERYWHERE.
Read WH online and on your tablet at issuu.com/whmag
follow us at @wh_mag
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
37
TASTE
In recent years the word "craft'" has taken flight: a new appreciation for f ine-tuned, hand-made products has found new meaning, new heights, and evolved to new tastes. Read how Winter Haven’s Grove Roots Brewing Co. got its start and now offers an array of local crafted brews on tap.
BY LEIGH-ANNE HEMENWAY POU • PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL BARCELÓ
38
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
39
T
he craft beer revolution has finally made its way to Winter Haven. Likely the city’s most anticipated opening in recent history (quite possibly ever), Grove Roots Brewing Co. does not disappoint. Set in downtown Winter Haven, Joe Dunham has created an oasis that appeals to all ages, born in a formerly empty garage. The moment you step onto the property, it’s obvious Dunham has brought to Winter Haven what has so desperately been missing: a true, local spot — a gathering place. Rotating a diverse lineup of food trucks and live music, Grove Roots is an ideal relaxed atmosphere to accompany a variety of craft beers, all found in a setting that welcomes the entire family. Yes, even your kids (and dogs!) can enjoy Grove Roots. Dunham got his start brewing beer about 10 years ago. While working in the corporate world, managing large construction endeavors like oil refineries and mines, Dunham realized that for him, brewing beer was a lot like cooking — and a passion was ignited. He soon began experimenting with flavor notes to awaken the palate through his five-gallon home brewing system. What started as a hobby quickly grew to an obsession. Every recipe Dunham has developed came from that same system, leaving him with over 100 recipes.
40
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Grove Roots Brewing Co. 302 3rd Street SW Winter Haven, FL 33881 863.291.0700 groveroots.com
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
41
WHEAT ALE Ales brewed with wheat include German Weissbier, Belgian Witbier, tart Berlinier Weisse, and salty Gose. Fruity, spicy flavors from the wheat and yeast are most prominent. PALE ALE Pale in colors, these ales feature medium maltiness, pleasantly balanced with hoppy bitterness, often making for great session beers. Variations include the mild English Pale Ale and Extra Special Bitter (ESB), more aggressive American Pale Ale, and the popular India Pale Ale.
42
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
INDIA PALE ALE (IPA) Generous amounts of hops balanced with a malty sweetness. Variations include the mild English IPA; piney West Coast American IPA; citrusy East Coast American IPA; and bigger, badder Double (or Imperial) IPA. BROWN ALE Brewed with darker malts than Pale Ales, prominent flavors in this mild, low-alcohol ale are chocolate, caramel, and nuts. Fantastic for pairing with a meal.
BELGIAN ALE Often used to denote Trappist or monasticstyle beer such as Dubbel, Tripel, and Quadrupel, these ales are often malty with fruity yeast flavors. Other popular styles include wheaty Witbier, funky Saison, and sour Lambic and Gueuze. LAGER Beers that are fermented and conditioned at lower temperatures. Although more popular Lagers like Pale Lagers and Pilsners are light, refreshing, and mild in flavor, other variations such as Bock, Marzen/Oktoberfest, and Schwarzbier can be darker, heavier, and more flavorful.
PORTER/STOUT Roasted malts give these dark, heavy ales flavors and aromas such as coffee, chocolate, licorice, and molasses. Although arguably interchangeable, the term “Stout� is commonly used to indicate a stronger Porter. Popular variations include the dry Oatmeal Stout; sweet Milk Stout; and more robust, high-alcohol Baltic Porter and Russian Imperial Stout.
After brewing beer for a few years, Dunham knew he had a good thing going. He and his wife, Lucy, spent a year creating a 45-page business proposal. After having the proposal reviewed by a few friends, they all encouraged him to go for it. Though, it was Lucy who ultimately said, “Let’s do this!” Dunham says it was always in the back of his mind to come back home and start a brewery. He had always felt Winter Haven was a city with great potential. Along with his biggest supporter, Lucy, Dunham credits his family, local business partners, and private investors for their faith in him. After seeing the blueprints of the brewery, they all felt the concept, the brand, and the beer was exactly what Winter Haven had been waiting for. Aware that they all had to take a leap of faith, Dunham recalls the support from the community and friends that brought it all together. “That was very cool. Usually, in bigger towns, it’s harder to raise funding.” Following the grand opening in September, Dunham said the response from Winter Haven has been nothing short of amazing. “The whole town has gotten behind us” he says. On day one, over 1,700 people showed up, a number double what had been expected. “Everybody says they are so proud of this place, which makes you immediately have a true customer base.”
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
43
“Everything in here, from the décor to the beers, I do to make Winter Haven proud.” — Joe Dunham
44
WH MAGAZINE
The communities’ overall response, Dunham says, “Makes me happier than anything else in here. That’s why we say ‘proudly brewed in Winter Haven,’ because we wanted to make Winter Haven proud. And the community really dug into that. Everything in here, from the décor to the beers, I do to make Winter Haven proud.” The overall community support has been staggering, to the point that Dunham even ran out of his beautifully crafted beers. But, as he says, “We dove off a cliff and survived.” So, what’s next for Grove Roots? Dunham says the goal is eventually to expand and distribute. When asked what he would like to see next for Winter Haven, Dunham answers, he’d love to see the artisan crowd kick it up, crediting the rise in local coffee roasters and bakeries, and the cultural and economic impacts they are making across the board. “People are moving away from macro sourcing of large shed stores and are going into communities to see what they’re making.” Dunham wants to encourage the folks already here, or those who want to move back, to jump in and increase a community of culture. Grove Roots is destined to become a local favorite. Joe Dunham truly has made Winter Haven proud. Look for some local pop-ups to be featured at Grove Roots in the coming months. NOVEMBER 2016
For over 40 years, Central Florida Health Care has served communities with convenient locations in Polk, Highlands & Hardee counties. We offer a wide range of services including: Primary Care | Pediatrics | OB-GYN Adult & Pediatric Dentistry | Lab | X-Ray | Pharmacy Call 866-234-8534 to schedule your appointment today!
www.cfhconline.org
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
45
PHILANTHROPY
PROVIDING A GETAWAY BY AUSTYN LINDSEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN KAZAKLIS
Over 30 years ago, when women of Winter Haven faced times of struggle on their own (f inancial, vocational, or personal), they had nowhere to turn. Now, at the heart of
46
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Winter Haven sits an organization that exists to give support to those in need. No matter what the situation, the Women’s Resource Center of Florida can offer each woman a fresh start.
CHEEP BOUTIQUE THRIFT STORE SUPERVISOR, LISA JONES
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
47
Y
ou most likely have passed this little store on Avenue A a dozen times and presumed this humble place was just another thrift shop seeking to aid the community by providing used clothes to those who need them most. But this small store with a blue bird in the window offers more than merely meeting immediate, material needs. So much more. Thirty-two years ago, a community needs survey was taken in Winter Haven, revealing there was a great lack of social services for women in the surrounding area. To narrow it down, the many needs of women in the community were maybe more than anticipated: divorced, widowed, separated from their husbands, facing personal crisis due to the inability to pay rent (when utilities were commonly shut off ). These all represented women who struggled with a sense of
48
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
HOUSEWARES, PAINTINGS, BOOKS, AND CLOTHES ARE EVERYDAY BARGAINS AT WRC’S CHEEP BOUTIQUE.
isolation or depression, who lacked the access to the advocacy and support necessary to survive in life. Most likely, we all know people in our community who have been in similar situations, suffering through an abusive marriage, facing a job loss or a family crisis, each one seeking a way out. While there are many great organizations that are prepared to meet the immediate needs of many of these women, never before has there been an organization solely dedicated to walk alongside them in the midst of crisis, get to the root of their problems, and set them up to move forward and succeed in life. Now Winter Haven has a group of dedicated women who continue to support the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) after its launch in 1984. Their support has funded programs at the WRC, which began as a local helpline for women and men in crisis. Through this client service of providing financial literacy, job coaching, and educational opportunities, the WRC has
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
49
CLIENTS CAN COME TO THE WRC AND USE THE COMPUTER TO FILL OUT EMPLOYMENT AND HOUSING APPLICATIONS.
given information and referrals to over 100,000 callers and walk-in individuals in need. “Our mission is to provide emergency assistance and services that will address each client’s immediate needs and offer ongoing help and support to empower them to become self-sufficient and productive members within our community,” says Women’s Resource Center Executive Director Cherie Simmers. Discovering the vast amount of women facing crisis in our community with no support, and usually
50
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
no job, the Junior League of Winter Haven formed the Women’s Resource Center. The purpose of the league is to promote voluntarism while developing the potential of women and improving the community. There’s no better testament of that purpose than walking into the WRC, being greeted by a smiling face, and knowing you are in the care of people who truly want you to be the best, independently brave, person you can be. With their many services, it’s hard not to feel welcomed into the WRC community and know you’re in good hands. “WRC’s services include Dress for Success (free clothing for job interviews and work), credit, budgeting and savings counseling, personal development, homeless intervention, crisis counseling, and general life-skills classes,” says Simmers. The WRC provides a getaway for woman who can't seem to get a break. Individuals who need help with homelessness can take a repose with their services and enter the Homeless Coalition’s assessment database, which happens to be the only location for this service on the east side of Polk County. The Independence Program was developed to provide emergency assistance as well as case management to reduce interpersonal conflicts and similar problems. The nine-month program is created to set women up for success, and designed to help women
A R T S & C U LT U R E • C O M M U N I T Y D E V E L O P M E N T • E D U C AT I O N • H E A LT H & H U M A N S E R V I C E S
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not. –dr. seuss
A community is only as strong as the people who live there. When we connect and share our resources, we make a better place to live, work, and raise our families. At GiveWell Community Foundation, we offer individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits a way to make their giving go further. Interested? Let’s Talk!
There are lots of ways to give. Find out at GiveCF.org/Giving
and their families resolve the issues that originally led them to the WRC for help in the first place. Simmers believes, “The goal for the future is to continue providing services to those in need of a hand. Speaking for those on the WRC Board, we are thankful for the solid foundation that began 33 years ago and has grown and blossomed, enriching our community. We have often dreamed of establishing a Safe House for women in crisis in the Winter Haven area. Some day in the future, I hope this becomes a reality.” We can help make this goal a reality by spreading the word of their mission, donating to the WRC, volunteering, and most importantly, reaching out to those in need around us. Direct them to the Women’s Resource Center and know that they are in good hands.
WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER OF FLORIDA FLORIDA 165 AVENUE A NW,
WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881 863.294.5318︱WRCFL.ORG
52
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
We don’t just help build long-term wealth. We form long-lasting relationships.
Our clients come first at Core. We are a high-touch wealth advisory firm with a low-pressure approach to portfolio management. We provide tailored, planning-based strategies with an unrelenting commitment to timely, accurate service focused on your goals.
We’re here for you. Call (863) 904-4745.
COREWEALTHADVISORSINC.COM
THE CORE TEAM: Chuck Foss • Nathan Dunham • Andrew Foss • Matte Diaz • Paul Weaver • Angela Newell
231 N KENTUCKY AVE • STE 217 • LAKELAND, FLORIDA 33801
STYLE
I S C O M I N G BY DANIEL BARCELÓ PHOTOGRAPHY BY TINA SARGEANT
lthough it may feel like late spring early in the afternoon, on occasion temperatures do fall into the chilly 50s and 60s this time of year — and we Floridians take such an event seriously. This presents a unique opportunity to embrace a winter wardrobe that incorporates a variety of more seasonal fabrics that our northern counterparts have been wearing since September.
54
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
Layering heavier pieces of wool, cotton, and velvet (for those days we’re feeling fancy) with lighter garments allows us the flexibility to embrace comfort in a polished ensemble. It offers a look that is put together and at ease, all at the same time. Though we may not be fighting the snow as we dress for a variety of occasions, this Sunshine State’s moodswinging climate is sure to keep us on our toes.
JET-SET STAPLES When your day’s itinerary takes you from TPA to JFK, knowing what to wear can be a challenge. But in addition to staying warm, remember that your airport style should never sacrifice comfort and ease.
boots ANDY THORNAL dress M.MARIE jacket M.MARIE earrings M.MARIE necklace M.MARIE suitcase NAUTICA
cap ANDY THORNAL sweater AMERICAN EAGLE topcoat BANANA REPUBLIC jeans HOLLISTER sneakers NEW BALANCE watch ANDY THORNAL
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
55
shirt ANDY THORNAL chinos JC PENNY G.H. Bass brogues ANDY THORNAL watch ANDY THORNAL outerwear MACY'S knitt tie MACY'S
56
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
WORKDAY REFRESH These cooler months, take advantage of the slightest seasonal change as an opportunity to update your office attire. Mixing classic accessories with modern silhouettes in unexpected fabrics will easily escalate your workwear to 2017.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
57
58
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
trousers M.MARIE chambray top DILLARD'S bag TJ MAXX necklace M.MARIE
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
59
blazer JC PENNY jeans LEVI'S shirt PERRY ELLIS Oxford shoes NORDSTROM RACK watch ANDY THORNAL
60
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
FORMAL FLASHBACK Velvet is back (and not just back in black). With this lux look comes the chance to turn heads at this season’s Christmas party. These plush garments, in of-the-moment colors, are a statement on their own, so take an understated approach for the rest of your holiday look.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
61
Gianni Bini dress DILLARD'S heels NASTY GAL K. Scott necklace 5TH AND HALL watch SKAGEN
62
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
HELPING YOU ENJOY MORE OF LIFE’S GOLDEN MOMENTS. Watson Clinic’s Cancer & Research Center has been awarded a 3-year reaccreditation with GOLD STATUS and the 2016 OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. In addition, we garnered commendations for excellence across all seven judging categories, including: • • • •
Nursing Care Rapid Quality Report Systems Accuracy of Data Submission Clinical Trial Accrual
• Public Reporting of Outcomes • Registrar Education • College of American Pathologists Protocols
1730 Lakeland Hills Boulevard • Lakeland, FL 33805 • 863-680-7780 • www.WatsonClinic.com/CancerCenter WH MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2016
63
PEOPLE
THE NEXT
HOME RUN
64
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
WRITTEN BY DREW BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AUSTIN
Growing up in Lakeland, Matt Diaz and his three brothers were always active in Little League sports. A catcher at Santa Fe Catholic, Diaz followed his older brother Zach to Florida State on a baseball scholarship. After just two years as a Seminole, Diaz was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays, playing in the Major Leagues for nearly 10 years (along with the noteworthy Atlanta Braves). Though Diaz and his wife, Leslee, lived in Polk County throughout his career, when Diaz retired from the Major League’s post 2013 season, the two returned to Winter Haven. Here, he shares his greatest memories on the f ield and how he continues to give back to the game.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
65
WH: When did you know that you wanted to play professional baseball? At what point did you realize it had become a possibility and not just a dream? I remember wanting to be a baseball player as long as I can remember. I had seen a sheet from kindergarten with “What do you want to be when you grow up?� on it, and my two answers were a baseball player or a garbage man. Riding on the
66
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
back of a truck seemed like fun! But the first time it really hit me that I had a chance to play baseball was right here in Winter Haven. My freshman year at Santa Fe, we were playing in the county tournament at Chain of Lakes Stadium. We were facing Lake Gibson, and one of the better pitchers in the county at the time was on the mound. I hit a home run. It was my first high school home run, and it was in a big league spring
A
A training stadium off of a pitcher that was being recruited pretty heavily. At that point, I went from thinking I had a chance to knowing I had a chance to at least play baseball beyond high school.
WH: You have three brothers. With all of you so active in the sport, why do you think you were the one that ended up with a career in professional baseball? That’s a tough one. Zach, the oldest, was the best pitcher by far. Ben, the third, had the most power. Jonny actually received more scholarship money to play baseball than any of us going into college. I do give Zach a ton of credit for my career. I piggybacked on his success at FSU. He bugged the coaches to come watch me play, and I ultimately went where having an older, well-respected brother as a teammate was a huge advantage heading into my first year. WH: What did you enjoy most during your time in baseball? I loved the challenge of it. I loved trying to figure out a way
MATT DIAZ HOLDING PRACTICE FOR HIS TRAVEL BASEBALL TEAM AT EAGLE LAKE SPORTS COMPLEX
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
67
“I HAD TO LEARN THAT ALL I COULD CONTROL WAS MY APPROACH AND MY ATTITUDE. THAT LESSON HAS SERVED ME WELL BOTH ON THE FIELD AND OFF.”
to succeed in a game so full of failure. I loved the locker room even though it wasn’t the easiest place in the world; it was like a forced family. The part that I loved most was also the hardest part. WH: What was the hardest part? It was a challenge to get along with so many different guys from different backgrounds and countries, but it really helped me grow as a person. WH: What was your favorite baseball moment? My favorite professional moment was probably hitting a home run in Fenway with my dad in the stands. It was hard to hold back my emotions as I thought of how many hours he’d spent with me in batting
68
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
cages and on baseball fields. My favorite moment in all of baseball was winning the 1995 state championship. My brother Zach pitched the last out. I was catching. Being the first one to meet him on the mound for the final out will always be one of my favorite moments of my life. To this day, in my office I have a poster of me jumping into his arms. WH: What is the most important lesson you learned during your baseball career? I learned to control the controllables. In baseball, especially coming up through the minors (and I spent a ton of time in the minors), it’s hard not to get frustrated. I had to learn that all I could control was my approach and my attitude. That lesson has served me well
PLAY
We accept most major medical insurances as well as HMOs and Medicaid. WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
69
both on the field and off. WH: What are you doing now? How does baseball continue to be a part of your life? After I retired, I immediately went to work for my financial advisor here in Polk County. I also received a cool opportunity to stay involved with professional baseball by being an analyst for Fox Sports South and Southeast, doing pregame and postgame shows for the Atlanta Braves part time. I wanted to give back to a game that has given so much to my family.
70
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
I also currently serve as president of Eagle Lake Baseball Association and coach my sons’ teams. In the world of youth baseball that has gone crazy with travel ball [a competitive step up from recreational baseball], I find it gives me a platform to get more kids involved in the game. By coaching my son’s travel team, it gives me the opportunity to help kids and parents put baseball in its proper place. You have to be careful to keep your priorities straight, but travel baseball gives the kids who are a bit more advanced the chance to play a little more.
“I WAS ABLE TO PASS A LOT OF PLAYERS MORE TALENTED THAN ME SIMPLY BECAUSE ONCE THEY DIDN’T HAVE TO WORK, THEY CHOSE NOT TO.”
Winter Haven IS OUR HOME
Our Core Values
• Local Market Driven • A Long Term Horizon • World Class Service • Relationship Banking • Faith and Family
A WH: Why are recreational leagues important for a great community, or any child’s upbringing? Travel ball is great if you want your child to become a better baseball player, but if you want him to become a better person through baseball, recreational baseball is the best teacher around. In travel ball, sometimes kids play with the same 11 teammates for years. In rec ball, they have to branch out, meet more people, and develop very important life skills like getting along with people from different backgrounds. They learn leadership skills and are forced outside their comfort zone.
72
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
A @ExclusiveCrPl
ExclusiveCruisePlanners
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
73
WH: What advice do you have for kids who aspire to professional baseball? My first advice is for the kids. Just like I had to learn: control the controllable. Attitude, effort, and reactions are all things you can control. You can’t control if you bat ninth or don’t make the team you want, but you can control how hard you work and how you respond to what you perceive as a bad break. To the parents, I would say,
74
WH MAGAZINE
there’s plenty of time to stress later. Enjoy your child. Be available to them when they want to work on their game, but if they are doing it for you because you make them, ultimately they will quit the game. I was able to pass a lot of players more talented than me simply because once they didn’t have to work, they chose not to. My parents and coaches did a great job of getting me to want to work.
NOVEMBER 2016
DIAZ SPEAKING AT CHAPEL AT LAKELAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL ABOUT LIFE LESSONS HE LEARNED DURING HIS YEARS PLAYING BASEBALL
Main Street Winter Haven, inc.
of S T H LIG ND A L E K A L
LOVE Winter haven
A FREE Christmas Walk-Thru Experience!
DECEMBER 224 + 9911 6 6 3 0 0 9 9 0 0 P M N I G H T LY
Fooo Coorr CCCCCree’s Geeerrr SSore LIVE NNNNvvvv
Sweee SSoppe PPooos wwww SSSSS/Mrs. CCCCs Hoooooo Acccvvvves
�pppkeeeee.coo 4777 LLkeeeee HHggggggs Rooo, LLkeeeee 863.647.3518 | @@pppkeeeee
Put your where your IS
Shop and Dine Downtown WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
75
PUBLISHER'S NOTE
We are thrilled to bring this publication to the greater Winter Haven area. Our mission is simple: to uncover and bring to light the many great things that make Winter Haven a wonderful city to live in and love. Made by a team of local creatives, artists, and connoisseurs, this publication is intended to be a vehicle
WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE OF WH!
that will bring pride and excitement to our community. WH will expose you to the many people, places, and uncharted experiences this city has to offer. If you are interested in joining our team, or would like to share a Winter Haven story, feel free to reach out to me directly. Our doors are always open. We hope you enjoy this first issue of WH.
Brandon Patterson
Associate Publisher/Editorial Director brandon@pattersonpublishing.com
76
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
treat yourself to
SPARKLING
WINDOWS call 863.644.4000 for a free estimate
insured•professional•courteous
NEW!
instant quote 20/20 window cleaning is pleased to provide an even easier way to obtain a free estimate. simply go to our website and click on “instant quote.” you will be taken through a series of questions and will receive a customized quote just for your home.
20-20windowcleaning.com
Community impact We celebrate our partnership
Nicolas Barrios Branch Office Manager Conley Thornhill, CFP®, CIMA® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Dickie Brawley, CIMA® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Jack Watkins Vice President–Wealth Management Jeff Shell Vice President–Wealth Management Mark Williams, CIMA®, CRPS® Vice President–Wealth Management Eric Johnson, CFP®, CIMA® Vice President–Wealth Management UBS Financial Services Inc. 295 1st Street South, Winter Haven, FL 33880 ubs.com/fs Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and Certified finanCial Planner™ in the U.S. CIMA® is a registered certification mark of the Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. in the United States of America and worldwide. For designation disclosures, visit ubs.com/us/en/ designation-disclosures. © UBS 2016. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. AD_7.00_8x4.75_WH1031_BarN WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
77
EVENTS
Stop by Winter Haven's Market for fresh, seasonal produce every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month.
DECEMBER DECEMBER 9 PRAISE IN THE PARK 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 9 CENTRAL FLORIDA HEALTH EXPO 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 9 AMERICAN IMPRESSIONISM: THE LURE OF THE ARTIST’S COLONY 10 a.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 10 SATURDAY MARKET DOWNTOWN WINTER HAVEN 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
DECEMBER 10 COME TO THE STABLE AND BETHLEHEM SQUARE 637 6th Street NW 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
78
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
DECEMBER 13 ISO PRESENTS A VICTORIAN HOLIDAY 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 17 SATURDAY MARKET DOWNTOWN WINTER HAVEN 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
DECEMBER 14 FREE NUTRITION CLASS 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 17 SANTA’S RUN FOR OUR KIDS 7:30 a.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 16 DULCIMER NIGHT WITH THE MUSICAL HAMMERS 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
DECEMBER 17 CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI SHOW 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. web.winterhavenchamber. com/events
One of a kind. ONE GREAT ADVENTURE SINCE 1945 Estate Jewelry Collection
Custom Knives Collection
• Footwear • Women’s • Travel • Outdoors • Hunting • Knives • Jewelry Fly Shop & More Men’sMen’s • Footwear • Women’s • Travel • Outdoors • Hunting • Knives • Jewelry • Fly• Shop & More
VICTORIAN ”
VINTAGE
ANDY THORNAL COMPANY
27 er el blaz d o il M Tra i“ in M
336 Magnolia Ave. SW • Winter Haven, Florida 33880 863-299-9999 • AndyThornal.com • Mon-Sat • 10am-6pm
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
79
OPENINGS
Grove Roots Brewing Co.
80
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
CENTRAL FLORIDA HEALTH CARE WOMEN'S & CHILDREN'S CENTER 201 MAGNOLIA AVENUE SW 863.229.7950 CFHC is governed by a community-based board of directors who work hand-in-hand with a qualified, culturally diverse staff. The highest quality of patient-centered, responsive, and compassionate care is offered by their medical and dental team. CFHC’s accredited health centers are “onestop” care centers for children and families with myriad needs.
GRAM PARSONS DERRY DOWN 301 FIFTH STREET NW 863.295.9422 Gram Parsons Derry Down is the revival of music through the restoration of the historic Derry Down. After two years of fundraising and building, it’s a place for those who love to play and those who love to listen. Join this new music venue for weekly live performance by local and touring artists.
GROVE ROOTS BREWING CO. 302 3RD STREET SW 863.291.0700
out as your own private business and run how you see fit. Spaces range from single and double suites and one deluxe triple suite, all varying in price and competitive in cost compared to the traditional salon booth rent. These spacious, private suites include high-end salon equipment for all health and beauty professionals.
PRIME RADIOLOGY 7454 CYPRESS GARDENS BOULEVARD 863.535.5544 Prime Radiology provides communities with the highest level of medical imaging and the latest technology offered. They focus on providing a comfortable, caring, and compassionate environment and understand that dealing with medical issues can be both emotionally and physically challenging. Prime Radiology's imaging services include ultrasounds, x-rays, MRIs, CT, and PET/CT scans — all within the warm, “at home” environment of their specially designed exam and waiting areas. Contact the office for all services available.
TREE SWALLOW GALLERY 347 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE SIXTENLLC.COM
Grove Roots is your back-porch bar, your after-work bee-line,your home-brew away from home. There’s always something happening at this new brewing co. and community camaraderie, along with a variety of crafted beers, always on tap. Stop by Winter Haven's newest gather place and raise a glass to sun-dappled lakes, moss-draped canals, and dusky, orange-blossom nights.
Tree Swallow Gallery is a pop-up retail location, exclusively featuring fine art by local artists. The gallery’s content is curated by local artists, and its “pop-up” nature also means slightly unusual hours, opened during the lunch and evening hours. Featured artwork includes sculptures by Trent Manning, David Figueroa, and Marilyn Rackleman; paintings by Tony Savoie; photography by Calder Wilson and Scott Whitley; ceramics by Tim and Erika Peters; jewelry by Buffy Wilson, as well as additional items.
GUTHRIE'S CHICKEN 600 CYPRESS GARDENS BOULEVARD GUTHRIESCHICKEN.COM
WAUCHULA STATE BANK 347 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE 863.733.7010
Guthrie's is a fast, casual, franchise restaurant chain headquartered in Auburn, Alabama. The first restaurant was opened in Haleyville, in 1965 by Hal Guthrie. By 1978 the menu made its way to consist primarily of chicken fingers, a signature sauce, French fries, coleslaw, and, of course, Texas toast. Today the chain has grown to include 26 locations across six states with plans to expand further.
Wauchula State Bank is devoted to helping you reach your financial goals. With an experienced staff, they will find the plan that fits your life with your assets in focus. Call for a consultation and see what financial help that you may, or may not, need.
POSH SALON SUITES 304 3RD STREET SW 863.528.2988 Business owners within a common building, Posh Salon Suites are created to set beauty professionals up to succeed. From stylists to massage therapists to estheticians, these secure suites are available to rent
WINTER HAVEN HOSPITAL BAYCARE MEDICAL CENTER 7599 CYPRESS GARDENS BOULEVARD 863.324.4725 Family health care that's professional, friendly, and convenient, Baycare offers board-certified physicians, and a wide range of services for children ages two and over, adolescents, and adults. Call and make your appointment today.
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
81
HISTORY
Clearing land for a citrus grove east of present Polk State College Campus near Lake Elbert (circa 1905)
photo courtesy of Museum of Winter Haven History
82
WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
years of
EXPERIENCED MINDS handling
COMPLEX MATTERS Since 1948, Peterson & Myers has provided experienced legal advice to help our clients’ innovative ideas become a reality. We believe each client deserves attorneys who create learned, practical, individualized solutions in a constantly changing and complex environment. Please call us or visit our website today for more information about our time-tested legal experience.
PETERSONMYERS.COM • 863.683.6511 • LAKELAND | WINTER HAVEN | LAKE WALES WH MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2016
83