WH7

ISSUE 7

Winter Haven’s City Magazine

THE BIKE SHOP / NOT YOUR OLD BOYS’ CLUB / GIRLS INC. SWEET STARTS / A LAND’S VALUE

WHEN SPRINGTIME FUN RESULTS IN MORE THAN THE SNIFFLES

STITCHES

X-RAYS

MINOR INJURIES

OWLNOWURGENTCARE.COM

ATHSMA

NECK PAIN

WINTER HAVEN :: 550 POPE AVE NW, STE 200 :: 863.299.2630 LAKELAND :: 3240 S FLORIDA AVE, STE 101 :: 863.644.7337 WALK INS WELCOME

We accept most major insurances as well as HMOs & Medicaid. Board certified pediatrician on staff.

ISSUE 7

52 ON THE COVER In this issue, discover the inspiration and recent developments of The Bike Shop.

cover photo by Dan Austin

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Locations

Physicians & Provider Listing

Main Campus 500 E. Central Ave. Winter Haven, FL 33880

At Bond Clinic, we are committed to providing Polk County and the surrounding region with qualify medical professionals.

Downtown Campus 199 Ave B, N.W. Winter Haven, FL 33881 East Campus Off Cypress Cardens Blvd.

3000 Woodmont Ave. Winter Haven, FL 33884 Ophthalmology Adjacent to the Main Campus

506 Ave A, S.E. Winter Haven, FL 33880 Davenport Campus

In Cypress Physicians Building at Heart of Florida

40124 US Hwy 27, Suite 102 Davenport, FL 33837 Marc Feldman, DPM / Podiatry & Foot Surgery Winter Haven Office

401 E. Central Ave. Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-299-9100 Sebring Office

4900 Sun N Lake Blvd. #1 Sebring, FL 33872 863-299-9100

Lake Wales Office Located in the Orange Grove Plaza

1342 S.R. 60 East Lake Wales, FL 33853 863-679-1552

By Appointment Only

Lakeland Office 4730 Explorations Ave. Lakeland, FL 33812

By Appointment Only

Sherif I. Ibrahim, MD Nephrology

Nephrology Hou, Jeffrey Peng, MD Ibrahim, Sherif I, MD New McClendon, Michele L., DO

Neurology Cardiology (Interventional) Rajguru, Shailesh, DO Cosme, Octavio, MD Nurse Practitioners Endocrinology & Diabetes Ash, Greisy, ARNP Bailey, Charla, ARNP Miller, Christopher, MD Bridges, Stephanie, ARNP Calderon, Amelia, ARNP Family Medicine Carbone, Carrie, ARNP Arana, Flavio R., MD Cassady, Stephanie, ARNP Arango, Cecilia, MD Cayson, Barry, ARNP Koilpillai, Robinson, MD Magno, Alexander S., MD Davidson, KC, ARNP O’Meara, Mary, MD New Harte, Brian, ARNP Huffstickler, Carrie, ARNP General Surgery Jones, Courtney, CPNP & Surgical Oncology Jones, Lorrie, ARNP Gambaro, Esteban, MD Krieger, Kelly, ARNP Thomas, Robert S., MD Lawrence, Laurel, ARNP Lewis, Jami, ARNP Hospitalists Linn-Gettel, Jean, ARNP Carlucci, Joseph A., MD Miller, Emily, ARNP Munez, Elvin, MD Moore, Vicki C., ARNP Paul, Nisha, MD Patel, Mrudula, AGNP Redlien, Parker, MD Patterson, Lauren, ARNP Shamim, Talha, MD Pickard, Martha, ARNP Rampersad, Michelle, ARNP Internal Medicine Ray, Brandi, ARNP Farrell, Cathy, MD Reed, Deloris, ARNP Lakhani, Sonali, MD Reedy, Clayton, ARNP Lopez, Christopher, MD Ritter, Cynthia, ARNP Prieto, Jose, DO Rivera, Ruby A., ARNP Rentas, Evelyn, MD Reyes, Pamela, MD Rivera, Juan R., MD Torres, Jorge, MD

Nurse Practitioners (con’t) Saucedo, Gerardo, FNP Skukowski, Bobbie, ARNP Torres, Heather, CPNP Valadez, Jenifer, NP-C White, Samantha, ARNP Widner, Linda G., ARNP Obstetrics & Gynecology Gabriel, Carlos I., MD Gatto, Vincent W., MD Kenaan, Jana, MD Salamon, Eva J., MD

Pulmonology Romeu-Velez, Jesse, MD Rheumatology Pancorbo, Roberto, MD Sleep Medicine Romeu-Velez, Jesse, MD

Oncology & Hematology Hlalah, O. Abu, MD

Thoracic Surgery Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD

Ophthalmology Ort, Michael G., MD

Urgent Care Ton, Liem, MD

Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Lerner, Robert K., MD Morin, Paul M., MD

Urology & Urologic Surgery Lee, Kevin, MD Romero, Claudio, MD

New

Pain MedicineVascular Surgery Interventional Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Eldeeb, Mohammad A., MD Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD Pediatrics Nguyen, Kenny, MD Physical Therapy Balogh, Jeremy S., DPT

Wound Care Iakovidis, Panagiotis, MD Lambert, Jr., C. Jake, MD

Physician Assistant Rodriguez, Christopher, PA

Bond Clinic Welcomes

863-293-1191

Podiatry & Foot Surgery Englert, Christopher, DPM Feldman, Marc, DPM

Mary O’Meara, MD Family Medicine

www.BondClinic.com

03/2018

Cardiology Bhatia, Karan K., MD Mustafa, Muhammad, MD Vigoreaux, Jose R., MD Willard, E.H., MD

First Street Campus 325 First Street N. New Winter Haven, FL 33881

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEATURES

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38

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PHILANTHROPY

TASTE

PEOPLE

Equipping girls to lead fuller lives

How a local bakery became a city’s go-to sweet spot

The unexpected journey of stepping into the role as president of Winter Haven’s Chamber of Commerce

GIRLS INC.

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SWEET STARTS

ISSUE 7

NOT YOUR OLD BOYS’ CLUB

Honest Banking for Generations

What if there was a bank that was more than just a transaction?

We’re different. Find out how: bit.ly/WHBusiness

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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60

BUSINESS

STYLE

The story behind a community of cyclists that continues to grow

An unlikely spin on spring florals

THE BIKE SHOP

IN FULL BLOOM

DEPARTMENTS 14

EDITOR’S NOTE

16 CONTRIBUTOR BIOS 18 PHOTOGRAPHER BIOS 22

78 EVENTS

70

82 HISTORY

CULTURE

A LAND'S VALUE

A look inside the newly released book, Environmental Modernism: The Architecture of [STRANG]

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METRO

ISSUE 7

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

EDITOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Advertising ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ADVERTISING SALES

Curt Patterson; 863.409.2449 Brandon Patterson; 863.409.2447 Jason Jacobs, 863.606.8785

Editorial CONTRIBUTORS

PRODUCTION EDITOR COPY EDITOR

Mercedes Jewell Grainger, Leigh-Anne Hemenway Pou, Johnny Laderer, Annalee Mutz Annalee Mutz Laura Burke

Creative DESIGNER

G ROVE RO OTS BREWING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

VP, FINANCE INTERN SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN

Anushka van Huyssteen Dan Austin, Dustin Barrow, Jordan Randall, Naomi Lynn Vacaro Deb Patterson Emily Johnson Allie Bernatek

Circulation CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

THANK YOU

FOR SUPPORT I N G U S THROUGH OUR FI RST YEAR. CHEERS TO MANY MORE!

GENERAL COUNSEL

Jason Jacobs Ted W. Weeks IV

Issue 7 - March/April 2018 Published by Patterson Jacobs Publishing, LLC 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

GROVEROOTS.COM 302 3RD STREET SW WINTER HAVEN, FL 33880

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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

A home that reflects your life.

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North Lakeland, South Lakeland, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Haines City, Bartow, Lake Wales, Dundee, as well as, On Your Lot

Bring this ad in to receive $500 in new home options

FROM THE EDITOR

SPRINGING Spring always comes a little earlier here in Florida. Truth be told, as one who came down from New England, one born in the norm of nor’easters and snow days that hit well beyond Easter, the light, brief winters of the South took a little getting used to. The essentials of a year-round spring and summer wardrobe took a while to catch on.

I’d being lying if I said there weren't squelching-hot November days I’d insist on wearing boots, regardless of the fact that it would make me 10 degrees warmer.

Or balmy January evenings where I’d put the AC up a few extra notches just to

fully enjoy the warmth of an oversized, chunky, turtleneck sweater.

It took me a few years to finally bask in the sun of an early spring and embrace that — though at times there may only be two seasons in Florida — the sky is (nearly) always bright and clear.

This spring issue of WH features stories about people and businesses that have come to embrace what life has given them and created something that benefits an entire city and more. It spotlights those who (if you can pardon the exacerbated pun) have learned to bloom where they’re planted. And we hope it will inspire you all to do the same.

Kristin Crosby, Editor

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LLC

SMALL CITY RISING

863-299-1195

LIVE. WORK. PLAY.

56 FOURTH STREET, NW 2ND FLOOR WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881

WWW.SIXTENLLC.COM

CONTRIBUTORS

KRISTIN CROSBY PEOPLE

Originally from the North, Kristin Crosby first came to Lakeland to study at Southeastern University. Prior to Patterson Publishing, she worked at Relevant Magazine and as a grant writer for the nonprofit organization LifeNet International, and previous contributor at LifeZette.com, an American news and opinion site based in Washington D.C. As editor, Kristin endeavors to uncover and give voice to the untold stories of this city. kristincrosby.com

MERCEDES JEWELL GRAINGER STYLE

Mercedes Jewell Grainger lives in Lakeland with her husband, Christopher, and one-yearold daughter, Lilla. Since interning on the set of the feature film Kill the Irishman in Detroit, Mercedes launched her styling business, costumed numerous short films, and served as stylist for a national retail advertising campaign. mercedesrichelle.com

LEIGH-ANNE HEMENWAY POU BUSINESS

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. LeighAnne and her husband are proudly raising their family in Winter Haven.

JOHNNY LADERER CULTURE

ANNALEE MUTZ TASTE / PHILANTHROPY

Johnny Laderer, a Polk County native, lives in Miami and works as a multidisciplinary creative. Starting out studying and showing art, he shifted to fashion, started a line called Algae, and has worked consulting for other fashion brands. His area of focus is now in place-making, landscape design, interior design, and architecture. He has a keen sense of PLACE that reflects a life spent examining the way spatial design affects our world view and identity.

Annalee Mutz is a multi-discipline creative based out of Lakeland. She holds degrees in journalism and public relations, and a master’s in business administration. In addition to writing and freelancing, Annalee’s loves in life include her husband, Michael; books; art museums; traveling and learning about new cultures; live music; 1999 rom-coms; and yoga. annaleemutz.com

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CLIENT Focused.

COMMUNITY Driven.

This has been our mission since we’ve opened the doors at Bank of Central Florida just a decade ago.

We are a team of local, experienced bankers committed to building relationships, not just transactions.

Seasoned professionals who work directly with you to find innovative solutions to meet all of your financial needs.

And as Lakeland’s largest community bank in terms of market share with over $460 million in deposits, we know the importance of giving back in the communities we live and work. It is about establishing a culture that’s committed to helping others in need.

We’re honored to be part of this community. Working together with you, our future is bright.

- Paul Noris | Chairman of the Board, CEO and President

THE ART OF INTELLIGENT BANKING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

JORDAN RANDALL

Jordan Randall is a 22-year-old freelance photographer from Upstate New York currently attending school in Lakeland. He specializes in portraiture, lifestyle, and street photography.

For Jordan, it's about embracing culture and creating community. He has a sincerely deep passion for telling stories that matter and for capturing fleeting moments. imjordanrandall.tumblr.com DAN AUSTIN

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

DUSTIN BARROW

Dustin Barrow is a Louisiana native now living in Central Florida and working as a graphic designer and photographer. He enjoys spending time with his family and connecting with other creatives. instagram.com/dustin.barrow/

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NAOMI LYNN VACARO Naomi Lynn Vacaro has been a world traveler since birth, living in the ice desert of Mongolia with her missionary parents who took her family on occasional visits to Korea, Russia, China, and Thailand. Her 18th birthday came with the expiration of her Mongolian visa, and, despite her hatred of large bugs, Naomi moved to Lakeland, Florida. It was here that she learned how to drive, figured out work and college, and tackled her fear of ordering at fast-food restaurants. She is now a freelance photographer and blogger. naomilynn.com facebook.com/naomilynnphotography

Zac Kluytenaar, Cathy "K" and Florrie Kluytenaar

Cathy “K” Kluytenaar and

RELAX. YOU’RE HOME. Cathy “K” and the “K” Team are a family business with deep roots in Polk County.

The Kluytenaar family and their team of committed professionals have had the privilege of serving our community’s real estate needs for several decades. Our proven track record includes thousands of local real estate transactions. Thank you Polk County! We look forward to meeting you and assisting you with all your real estate needs.

YOURKTEAM.COM FIND US 323 FIRST ST. SOUTH WINTER HAVEN FL. 33880

CONTACT US 863.604.6220 INFO@YOURKTEAM.COM

why be ordinary?

Stand out from your competition with award-winning design and beautiful photography all supported by an attentive team working to see you succeed.

lkldrcreative.com | 863.701.2707

METRO

FO MO GETTING A LITTLE DIRTY

No matter how long you’ve lived in a city, there’s this rusty place we tend to fall into. It’s somewhat of a pit, where we question and overanalyze why we are where we are. It’s this idea that lurks around us — a deep, thick fog that puts us in a rather inconvenient funk. It drowns our vision, distills our drive, and compresses our hopes for the future. It’s the all-too-familiar concept that what’s going on in our life is less exciting compared to everyone else’s. It’s the assumption that everyone else’s life is more fulfilling and Insta-worthy than our own, the feeling that life is always less-than. It ignites an anxious fear, difficult to extinguish, that causes one to feel what is going on in our own life will simply never be enough … a feeling otherwise known as FOMO (the fear of missing out).

Granted, many of us are more accustomed to this popular coined concept today more than ever before. In fact, recent reports have found that, for the generation of millennials, those born between 1980 and 1999, one in five young workers face depression, compared to only 16 percent of GenXers and baby boomers.

Nearly 40 percent of millennials say their stress continues to increase. And some studies, such as one from Royal Society for Public Health and Young Health Movement, find the triggering source of this climbing mix of stress and discontentment to be photo-based platforms, such as Instagram, that, though while a means of self-expression, are highly associated with “high levels of anxiety, depression, bullying, and FOMO.” It almost seems a way of life, this so-called FOMO. And if it leads to anything, it is the purely stagnant place of discontent. One becoming all too common for young people. And it haunts us all.

While it may not affect each of us of us in the same area, it still impacts us at some point.

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Particularly for young people who are stepping out of college, or into work life, the feelings and confusion of FOMO create an idealization of what life should look like, and more often than not, what we expect life to present to us.

Though, when we step back and look to those who are often the cause of envy — the leaders, the shakers, the entrepreneurs, the lifestyle bloggers that we may stalk — it’s often those very individuals we look to who aren’t looking at what everyone else is doing. They’re not plagued with the virus of FOMO or sulking in its remnants, but rather are getting their hands dirty. It is often while we wallow in this feeling of FOMO that we miss the opportunity to make an impact, to do what is right in front of us, and to simply get our hands a little dirty.

Yet, the feelings of FOMO do not discriminate and can invade any of us. While it likely derives from a self-consumer mindset, it can easily infiltrate minds of any age, from any place … from New York City to Los Angeles to Winter Haven.

FOMO and this idea that life is better elsewhere requires little to no effort from us. But it can suck up a considerable amount of our time, if we let it.

In order to take back this time, maybe we need to dig a little deeper and find a bit of a consistent rhythm in order to find a love for the place we are in right now.

Even the famed artist Michelangelo knew that in order to find something beautiful, one can’t be distracted by others, once saying, “Critique by creating.”

Maybe it’s due time we get our hands a little dirty.

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

-01

Citywork (X)Po Florida -01 For designers, thinkers, and big dreamers, April 4-6 is an opportunity to oil your creative wheels and keep them moving.

This place-making summit, idea-exchanging, and festival-styled conference, in partnership with the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, City of Winter Haven, Winter Haven Economic Development Council, and Visit Central Florida brings this exciting event to life. With attendees from across the state, (X)po seeks to enhance connectivity within and between cities, to explore exponential impact across seven major themes: Capital & Social Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Good Government, Arts, Design & Music, Knowledge & New Media, Outdoors & Recreation, Public Health & Social Justice, and Food & Drink. (X)po speakers, panelists, and participants include innovative leaders from each theme, offering interactive network opportunities over the course of the three days.

-02

cityworksxpofl.com AMANDA SHIRES PERFORMS AT GRAM PARSONS DERRY DOWN -02 Amanda Shires, winner of the 16th annual Americana Honors & Awards 2017 Emerging Artist of the Year, will perform at Gram Parsons Derry Down on April 12 at 7:30 p.m. Shires launched her performing career playing fiddle. She has toured and recorded with John Prine, Todd Snider, Shovels & Rope, and most recently, her husband, Jason Isbell. With three solo albums, each documenting a period of her life, her most recent album, My Piece of Land, deals with the phases of one young woman’s life and the concept of home.

amandashires music.com -03

BARK IN THE PARK -03 It’ll be a dog day in Central Park Downtown Winter Haven on Friday, May 4, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy acoustic music, cold beer, and wine while strolling through pet-friendly vendors and a dog-play area. Bark in the Park is a free community event created just for you and your four-legged friends.

Don’t forget to register for the wiener dog race at the Main Street Winter Haven tent. Race time is 7:30 p.m. and is so much fun to watch.

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mainstreetwh.com/ event/bark-in-thepark

formerly the Bella Vista Spa

1755 N. Florida Ave. • Lakeland • www.WatsonClinic.com/Spa • 863-904-6204 Open to the public • Massage License #MM22736 • Occupational License #CE9977973 •

B The Building of Bok Tower Gardens The history of Bok Tower Gardens begins in the Netherlands — specifically with Edward W. Bok, the founder. When he and his family immigrated to the United States, Bok did not understand the language, customs, or culture of his new home — however, diligence complimented him. He studied the English language often and began to develop conscious understanding for the environment, humanity, and peace. The Bok family visited Lake Wales often as a winter retreat from the chills of Pennsylvania snow, and this

boktowergardens.org

was when his admiration of Iron Mountain took effect. At about 298 feet above sea level, Florida’s highest point, Iron Mountain offers tranquil sunsets. Here, Bok decided, would be the ideal setting for a bird sanctuary. After purchasing the land, Bok and famed architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. presented the lush gardens, shady alcoves, a unique Singing Tower, as well as a 1930s’ Mediterranean-style mansion to the American people on February 1, 1929.

Bok often quoted this inspiration from his

grandmother: “Make the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.” Bok did just that. Not only did he share stirring beauty through his gardens, but also through authorship that led him to receiving a Pulitzer Prize, his various humanitarian work, and his advocation of world peace.

Bok thought of the gardens as an analogy to the opportunities he had been given, with the opportunity for artistic enrichment and spiritual renewal to Bok Tower Gardens’ many beholders.

Peak Bloom

Easter Sunrise Service

Walking Tours

Farm to Table Dinner

At Peak Bloom visitors can observe hundreds of various camellias, azaleas, and blooming foliage all during the spring months, but specifically February 1 to March 31. So either hurry there or mark your calendars for next year’s peak bloom to experience the best of Bok Tower Gardens.

On April 1, join Bok Tower’s Easter morning tradition by welcoming the sunrise in hymn at the Singing Tower. There will be a full choir, alongside live carillon performances and an Easter message by local clergy. Guests are offered complimentary admission, and the service begins at 7 a.m.

Until April 15, join a free walking tour with one of the Gardens’ volunteers where they’ll guide you through the sights sharing about the different plants or birds that you’ll see. Tours are Monday through Saturday, 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. only.

On May 3, Bok Tower Gardens will host its fourth Farm to Table dinner featuring Chef Amy Freeze, world food champion. To welcome summer, Chef Freeze plans to prepare fresh produce and hearty proteins combined with ingredients straight from the Gardens’ own.

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A NEW HOME? WE JUST FOUND OURS

ANNOUNCING BETTER HOMES & GARDENS REAL ESTATE BY DESIGN IN WINTER HAVEN, FLORIDA! ANYONE CAN FIND A HOUSE. WE HELP YOU FIND YOUR HOME. BYDESIGNRE.COM | 863-294-7000 © 2018 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS® REAL ESTATE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF MEREDITH CORPORATION LICENSED TO BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE LLC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. EACH FRANCHISE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED.

BY DESIGN R E A L E S TAT E S E R V I C E S

PHILANTHROPY

girls girls girls girls girls girls girls girls girls

FOR ALL EQUIPPED WORTH SUPPORT POWER CAN DO SMART BOLD WHOLE

inc. inc. inc. inc. inc. inc. inc. inc. inc.

written by ANNALEE MUTZ p h o t o g r a p h y b y N A O M I LY N N VA C A R O

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IN GOOD COMPANY Strong, smart, and bold women aren’t built overnight. A plethora of factors goes into the development of courageous women, including the examples of strong role models in their everyday lives. The community built by Girls Inc. demonstrates just this. Through researchbased programming to their intentional staff and volunteers, Girls Inc. of Winter Haven is equipping girls to make healthy life choices that will signif icantly impact the trajectory of their lives.

In July 1848, a group of activists gathered together in Seneca Falls, New York, to have a conversation regarding women’s rights. At this time in history, the concept of womanhood was merely one of a submissive wife, one who should be exclusively concerned with the needs of her home and family, and not much else. Outside of this, women were not given the same rights of citizenship as men. Because of the boldness of reformers Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott to intervene and envision a world with women’s rights, that day in 1848 would pave the way for a 100-year fight to win women the right to vote in the United States.

This must have been a terrifying feat for these women. And when I think back to leaders who initially sparked such a major change, I wonder: what gave them the courage to take such a bold step? What skills were they equipped with to complete such a difficult task? What were they like as kids — girls growing up in a culture with challenges that seemed too big to conquer alone?

The history of Girls Inc. dates back to 1864, right in the midst of this several-decades-long journey for women’s suffrage. They first worked to serve girls and young women who were dealing with the chaos from the aftermath of the Civil War. Initially helping prepare them as mothers and wives, Girls Inc. has adapted to the specific needs of each generation, paying attention to the unique challenges that young females face in the changing times. Since the beginning, Girls Inc. has been committed to creating safe gathering places throughout the country to help girls grow up healthy, educated, and independent.

“It’s important for girls to recognize they have a voice, and that’s what we strive to do,” says Girls Inc. of Winter Haven Executive Director, Peggy Threlkel. The Girls Inc. of Winter Haven was first founded in 1948 by local community activist, Virginia Snively. Similar to other clubs throughout the United States, Girls Inc. of Winter Haven also has undergone transformation throughout the past 70 years in order to better provide programs that equip girls with the tools they need today. No matter the location, the mission of Girls Inc. has remained the same: to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

“There are different facets to each of those words,” says Threlkel. Girls Inc. of Winter Haven strives to help girls become strong not only physically but also emotionally; they want to teach girls how to be smart not only academically but also through life skills; and being bold means being able and willing to take risks. “We want to see the girls be able to stand up for themselves if they feel like

“It’s important for girls to recognize that they have a voice, and that’s what we strive to do,” says Girls Inc. of Winter Haven Executive Director, Peggy Threlkel.

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Equipping girls to make wise decisions in their lives, Girls Inc. offers programs focused on education, employment, health and sexuality.

PROGRAM OFFERINGS [girlsincwinterhaven.org/programs]

Girls Inc. Economic Literacy® // This program helps girls develop basic financial concepts like managing money, investing, and developing an appreciation for global economics. No matter the individual’s economic background, this program shows girls how to develop the skill needed to be economically independent and how to be responsible for their own financial well-being. Girls learn these skills through four age-appropriate components: She’s on the Money!SM; Dollars, Sense, and MeSM; Equal Earners, Savvy SpendersSM, and Futures and OptionsSM.

Girls Inc. Friendly PEERsuasion® // PEERsuasion helps develop the skills girls need to resist the pressure to use harmful substances such as alcohol, tobacco, household chemicals, and other drugs. In this program, girls learn to identify healthy alternatives to cope with stress and confront peer, media, and other pressures that influence their decisions. The program is available in Spanish as Persuasión Positiva.

Girls Inc. Leadership and Community Action // The Leadership and Community Action program enables girls to exercise personal and collective power. Through this program, girls celebrate the heritage of girls and women as leaders. They also develop an awareness of how they can positively contribute to their community. Components of this program include: DiscoverySM and HandsSM.

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Executive Director, Peggy Threlkel, leads the hands-on, researched-based program to see that each young girl is equipped and empowered to live to their fullest potential.

other people won’t be able to do that for them,” says Threlkel.

Girls Inc. of Winter Haven accomplishes this mission of inspiring young females to live strong, smart, and bold lives through their hands-on, research-based programming. These programs are facilitated by trained staff and volunteers who serve as advocates for the girls. Focusing on topics like education and employment, health and sexuality, and delinquency prevention, these holistic programs help encourage girls to make smart and healthy decisions for their lives. Above all else, the programs are designed to uniquely provide the girls with opportunities that set them up to succeed and derive purpose in their lives.

“Everything needs to have purpose,” says Threlkel.

When asked how she has seen girls lives changed through Girls Inc’s. programs, Threlkel’s face lit up as she gave an enthusiastic, “Wow!” She proceeds to boast on how the girls have succeeded academically, witnessing dozens of girls taking drastic turns at school from failing and repeating grades, to obtaining As and Bs

and being promoted to the next grade. However, what brings her significant joy is seeing their confidence grow. “Being able to stand in front of the group and read, talk about their passions, or give a presentation … yes, they are still nervous, but they work through it, and they are able to be successful and do a great job,” says Threlkel.

Being a partner agency of the United Way of Central Florida, Girls Inc. of Winter Haven is predominantly funded through the United Way, fundraisers, and contributions. Each year, the United Way of Central Florida evaluates the Girls Inc. of Winter Haven’s programming and determines how much funding they are able to provide them. After the funding provided by the United Way of Central Florida, Girls Inc. of Winter Haven works to get more funding through events that they host themselves, including an auction each fall called “Angels Among Us.” They also host an annual luncheon called “She Knows Where She’s Going” where four outstanding women who are making a significant impact in the Winter Haven community are nominated.

Numerous other organizations have been generous with their time and resources, including the Publix Charities and the City of Winter Haven. Threlkel and the rest of the Girls Inc. staff are overwhelmed with gratitude for the continued support from their community.

Girls Inc. can always use more help in an array of areas. From tutoring to mentoring, the effectiveness of the programs depends on the community support. A huge desire they have for the future, though, is to have more former girls return and mentor the current girls at Girls Inc. of Winter Haven. Threlkel recounts some of the most profound experiences for the girls have been when former Girls Inc. attenders return and share their personal experiences. “Being able to share their successes with college acceptance is really incredible,” says Threlkel.

What tends to happen is that once students hit high school, the Girls Inc. staff won’t see these girls as frequently. “Which is great; it means they are getting involved and connected in their schools,” says Threlkel. “But we are really thrilled when

girls inc. girls inc. girls inc.

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Much of Girls Inc.’s success lies not only in the programs, but with the community and mentors.

The most impactful relationships are often graduates of the program who return to mentor the young women.

they come back and volunteer with us, because the younger girls can see them.” Some of the staff has also watched previous girls grow up and bring their kids back to Girls Inc. to participate in the programming just like they did as kids.

Hearing Threlkel reflect on the successes of the girls in the programs reminds me of the power of community and how positive role models can leave a significant impact. Threlkel believes that not only the programs, but the insight from previous girls and leaders in the community, are changing these girls’ lives. “We want to build a strong foundation so we can continue to encourage girls,” says Threlkel. As demonstrated throughout history, when women gather together, they can create a significant impact.

For more information or to find out how you can get involved, visit girlsincwinterhaven.org.

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why foster homes

are needed in communities

Heartland for Children, Inc. is the lead community based care agency that has been serving Polk, Hardee and Highlands Counties since 2003, redesigning the local foster care system. Growing the foster home network so children and teenagers can remain in their communities and reach their full potential continues to be a top priority.

Great progress has been made in recruiting quality foster caregivers, preparing interested individuals and couples to be the best foster caregivers they can be for local children who have experienced trauma, and ensuring that once homes are licensed, support services are offered to foster caregivers when needed.

Most recently the training curriculum was redesigned to focus on parenting children who have experienced trauma; the licensing and home study process has been closely examined to see how we could reduce paperwork for all training class participants; and current foster caregivers are engaged to mentor new foster caregivers. Also, current foster caregivers help in the training classes and in our local recruitment efforts.

Our current foster caregivers continue to be our best recruiters in Polk, Hardee and Highlands Counties.

We currently have an engaged network of 186+ foster caregivers that understand that the greatest need Heartland for Children has, is to build our foster home network so that when children from this community need a temporary place to live, we have options for these children.

Children that are placed in foster care want to stay in their same schools, near their current neighborhoods, and around their familiar friends and family members.

We need to grow our network to 250 homes to meet the local need. Can you help us reach this goal?

Strong Communities need diverse foster caregivers that can meet the unique needs of children and teenagers when a situation arises, and they need to be placed in a safe home where they feel accepted.

Please consider learning more about how to become a foster caregiver in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands Counties by calling us at 863-519-8900 ext. 289, visit our website at www.heartlandforchildren.org and like us on Facebook to learn more about upcoming training classes and the local need for foster homes.

what local foster parents say

about their fostering experience

“People say ‘He is so lucky to have you’ , but I say I am lucky to have him.” ~ Lisa Myers (Heartland for Children Foster Caregiver)

“You might be temporary in their lives. They might be temporary in yours. But there is nothing temporary about the love and lessons shared between both families.” ~ Julie Myers (Heartland for Children Foster Caregiver)

Girls Inc. Media Literacy®// This program helps girls increase their awareness of the scope and power of the media and the effects of media messages on girls and women. They learn to analyze and pay attention to what they see and hear in the media. Girls then have the opportunity to be advocates for change, and create media that is more realistic and reflective of their lives. Components of the program include: Media and MeSM, Media SmartsSM, Girls Take Another LookSM, Girls Get the MessageSM, and Girls Make the MessageSM.

Girls Inc. Operation SMART® // Operation SMART helps girls develop enthusiasm for and skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Through hands-on activities, girls explore, ask questions, and solve problems. They also consider careers in these fields by interacting with women and men pursuing such careers. Components of the program include: Eureka!SM; Girls Dig It; Career Action, and Thinking SMART.

Girls Inc. Preventing Adolescent Pregnancy® // This program helps girls acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to take charge of and make informed, thoughtful decisions about their sexual health. Girls learn to identify ways and reasons to avoid early pregnancy and to prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The program comprises three age-appropriate components: Growing TogetherSM; Will Power/ Won’t PowerSM; and Taking Care of BusinessSM. Growing TogetherSM and Will Power/ Won’t PowerSM are available in Spanish as Crecer Juntas and Querer/Poder Decir “No.”

Girls Inc. Project BOLD®// Project BOLD® teaches girls to lead safer lives by developing skills and strategies for self-defense, including physical techniques.

Girls also learn how to seek out and talk to caring adults about personal violence and to advocate against gender-specific violence issues. Components of the program include: Action for SafetySM and Living Safe & StrongSM.

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Programs at Girls Inc. find ways to help young women not only come to a greater understanding of how to navigate their world, but also equip them to be advocates for change.

The new waiting room.

Online check-in for urgent care is now available – so you can choose where you wait.

Being sick is hard enough. So we’re making it a little easier to get well, with online check-in for Urgent Care. The next time you experience an illness or injury, visit our website, answer a few quick questions, and pick a time that’s convenient for you. We’ll save your spot in line, before you arrive. It’s that easy. Check in at UrgentCareCypress.com

7375 Cypress Gardens Blvd. • Winter Haven, FL 33884 Because our Urgent Care staff must treat patients based on the severity of illness or injury, your time is not guaranteed. We will see you as close to your designated time as possible.

If your symptoms worsen or you believe you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency as soon as possible.

37 WHDepartment MAGAZINE ISSUE 7 Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.

TASTE

SWEET STARTS w ri t te n by A N N A L E E M U T Z / p h otog ra p hy by DA N AU ST IN s t y le d by A M Y SC H AU S

From mall carts to storefront, Gourmet Goodies has become a beloved bakery in the heart of downtown. Famous for their cupcakes, they have expanded not only their space over the years but also their sweet offerings.

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Gourmet Goodies' custom baked goods include special flavors and varieties of tarts. Their storefront is also a perfect spot to swing by for a treat paired with their freshly brewed coffee.

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Gourmet Goodies’ sweet offerings span beyond their well-known cupcakes. Their menu also includes cookies, cakes, French macarons, cheesecakes, and more.

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C

arissa Hughes never imagined opening a bakery.

With a diverse background ranging from business management to real estate to ministry, Hughes always desired owning a business but never thought this dream would become a reality through the form of a bake shop — especially since baking wasn’t included in her varied experiences.

“I don’t bake ... it’s not my forte,” says Hughes, owner of Gourmet Goodies.

So, how did a non-baker build a thriving bakery in the heart of downtown Winter Haven?

Hughes and her husband, Bob, began the business merely as a hobby. Bob was the baker and spent much of his free time perfecting his recipes. With support from their family and friends, they then decided to develop a weekly route throughout town to

sell and deliver their sweet treats to local businesses. “We started the business just for fun,” says Hughes. Well, their fun door-to-door business continued to grow, and although through disappointment and missed opportunities from jobs, Hughes and her husband felt that it was just the right nudging to pursue crafting their weekend hobby into a full-time business.

As the business continued to grow, its location continued to adapt to its expanding market. From carts at malls to pop-ups at the local farmers markets, Hughes soon learned that their business would need to take root and find a home. They needed their own bakery.

“It was either go big or go home,” she says. Their first location in Winter Haven opened in February 2013, and after two successful years, they outgrew this location too. Their space then moved on November 2, 2015, to downtown Winter Haven where they have

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Extra large and super rich, Gourmet Goodies’ cookies are both decadent and delicate, the perfectly fused sweet treat.

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Referred to as their “crown jewel,” Gourmet Goodies’ cupcakes are of fered in 40 flavors, including 11 everyday favorites. They also have five featured specialities in rotation each month.

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been able to double their size and expand their daily menu options.

Today, Gourmet Goodies offers over 40 different flavors of cupcakes. They have 11 everyday favorites and five featured specialties that rotate each month. Customer favorites include the sea salt caramel and peanut butter brownie cupcakes. “We sell more cupcakes than anything,” says Hughes, “and iced sugar cookies!” That’s right, their delectable offerings span beyond cupcakes, with an extensive menu which also includes macarons, cake pops, brownies, and other specialty items. Hughes’ favorite? “The cheesecake is to die for,” she says. They also take custom orders, including wedding cakes.

Since their humble beginnings, they have still been able to maintain Bob’s original recipes while also improving them. Hughes has grown in her baking skills, as well. “I had to commit myself to learn to do it so that I could be a more effective manager,” she says.

She also credits their business’ success to their talented staff. “I was able to hire on people who knew better than me,” say Hughes.

“What encourages me the most is when customers come into the store and say, ‘I remember you from the cart in the mall,’” says Hughes. “They’re happy to see where we are, but they’re also happy to be a part of it.

Because of their support, this small, familyowned business is here. They supported local and that allows us to be their local bakery.”

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Gourmet Cookies

GOURMET GOODIES BAKE SHOP

More than just cupcakes, Gourmet Goodies has a vast offering in desserts, including their cookies. Perfect for work events, birthdays, or last-minute parties, stop by to check out their latest flavors.

68 4th Street NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881 863.318.1400

Custom Cakes For weddings and other events, schedule a tasting today to sample a variety of flavors and options available for your special day.

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Beautiful.

Confident. .

You

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, wife and mother of four children, Dr. Faeza Kazmier knows that it’s a struggle to always feel and look your best. With an eye for detail and an emphasis on safety, she calls upon over 17 years of experience to help you achieve your personal goals. She loves to see the boost of self-confidence her patients exude when they achieve the natural look of their dreams.

• Facial Rejuvenation (facelifts, eyelifts and minimally invasive browlifts) • BOTOX®, Dysport and fillers for the face and hands • Breast enlargement, lifts and reductions • Drain-free tummy tucks • Liposuction • Laser treatments (FRAXEL®, spider vein, brown spots, vaginal and labia rejuvenation with diVa®)

Women’s Center 1400 Lakeland Hills Blvd.

Suite B • Lakeland

Bartow 2250 Osprey Blvd.

Suite 100 • Bartow

www.WatsonClinic.com/Kazmier

863-680-7676.

• A new in-office FRAXEL® treatment - “Clear and Brilliant” which is designed to maintain healthy and youthful looking skin with no down time

Dr. Kazmier and her staff deliver a compassionate and highly personalized experience.

We look forward to caring for you!

PEOPLE

Not Your written by Kristin Crosby

Old Boys’ Club photography by

DUSTIN

BARROW

Katie Worthington /

As a skilled young woman, clearly ambitious, studious, and eager to get her hands dirty wherever life would take her, it was apparent early on that Katie Worthington was cut out for a unique role in leadership. Making her way back around to the familiar territory of the Polk County area, she quickly dove into the community, embracing every opportunity to make this city her home. Before long, Worthington would f ind herself in the unique place of leadership as president of the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. Breaking the common mold, in a role predominantly dominated by men, Worthington’s leadership creates a new access for change.

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IF

one were to ask Katie Worthington where she believed her career would take her, it’s unlikely she would’ve imagined she’d be in the prominent role of president of the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce which she currently holds. But, in many ways, it’s her willingness to expect the unexpected, and learning to fully embrace it, that has brought Worthington to where she is today.

As she begins to talk about her childhood upbringing, Worthington’s endearing story shapes up as some real-life version of This is Us. Worthington, 34, and her siblings (Ryan and Chelsea) were born at a teaching hospital in West Virginia — the nearest hospital to her parents’ Ohio home that could handle delivering triplets at the time. The family moved often throughout her childhood as her father developed his career with United Way, traveling from Cambridge, Ohio; to Brandon, Florida; Williamsburg, Virginia; and Nashville, Tennessee, before coming to Lakeland in 1997.

As a student at Santa Fe Catholic High School, about half of Worthington’s classmates were from Winter Haven. Even her boyfriend at the time was from Winter Haven. After Worthington graduated with a degree from UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, as well as becoming engaged to her high school sweetheart, the couple decided to move back to the Polk County area to a secure job her fiancé had in the city.

Although the marriage didn’t work out, Worthington says with a smirk that she “did get custody of Winter Haven, so I consider that a win. Everything happens for a reason,” she adds, “even if we don’t understand it at the time. And now I am blessed with an amazing husband, Justin Decker, and we are expecting our first child in May.” The couple had attended high school together and reconnected in 2014 over Facebook. “Ah, modern romance,” Worthington swoons. A project manager for Tucker Construction in Winter Haven, Decker is originally from Lakeland, yet he has seamlessly made Winter Haven his home. With both sets of parents still in the Lakeland area, it creates an ideal setting for a close family life, which the couple treasures.

A N U N A N T I C I PAT E D R E T U R N

Like many local young people in the Polk County area, Worthington never anticipated returning after college. “Frankly, you don’t appreciate the value of being surrounded by a true ‘community’ until you’re out in the real world for a bit,” she says. But, unlike some others that do wind up back in town, Worthington was determined that, if she were to return, she was going to get as involved as possible and learn to love this city she found herself back in.

Stepping into a career as a business banker for SunTrust Bank, it was essential for Worthington to network and create new relationships in order to develop new business. And the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce was the ideal opportunity to make that happen. With the help of “established professionals” who served as mentors, like Bonnie Parker and Bill Dorman, and learning from the example set by her parents Marilyn and Terry, Worthington began to volunteer for the Chamber and other nonprofits while simultaneously building a community network.

“I started at a pretty young age of 24 diving into volunteering in the community. I’ve been lucky through my career thus far to always work for people who valued community engagement as a vital part of business development and employee satisfaction,” says Worthington. Granted, while it takes years for so many young people today to truly grasp the importance of relationships within an established community, Worthington appeared to be a few steps ahead in this simple life lesson, allowing her to make some considerable strides early on in her career within leadership of the city.

Initially Worthington started out simply attending networking events. Along with Allison Beeman and a committee of other young professionals, they eventually founded the Winter Haven Young Professionals Group in 2008 (now Endeavor Winter Haven) — the young professional development arm of the Chamber. As the founding chairwoman of that group, Worthington was able to sit on the Chamber’s Board of Directors to get a good feel for the work the Chamber did.

When Worthington’s predecessor, Bob Gernert, announced his retirement, she admits that applying for the position was not her first thought. Rather she had been pouring her energy into the Chamber in her role as foundation chairwoman for two years and the Chamber board’s vice chair of tourism for a year. Worthington had also been working at CNP Agency in what she considers was truly her “dream job,” assisting clients in areas such as tourism, economic development, education, and much more — subjects she remains passionate about to this day.

“Marketing and PR are very much like the Chamber in which you get to absorb a plethora of information about numerous subjects on the regular, something I obviously love. I’m kind of nerdy like that,” Worthington says, though hardly anyone would call a leader who could bring a developing city to this point nerdy.

Thanks to her bosses and clients at CNP, Worthington was already exposed to many of the organizations and issues she would eventually handle as Chamber president. She credits the encouragement of several people on the Board of Directors of the Chamber to push her to finally apply for the position.

A NEW ROLE

Some may wonder what a “normal” day looks like for the president of the Chamber of Commerce, “Normal is a relative term,” says Worthington. While the only norm of her week-to-

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week appears to be wearing a variety of hats encompassing a wide range of subjects, her primary role at the Chamber is advocacy for the businesses in the greater Winter Haven area, no matter their size. But, to give you a more defined taste, Worthington explains, “Over the last week, I've sat in meetings and/or worked on projects regarding our public transportation system; road infrastructure; state legislative issues; our Winter Haven public schools; possible zoning issues; our post-secondary educational opportunities and workforce development; expansion of healthcare access in the community; and, with our amazing Chamber team (Amanda Jo, Brianna, Jennifer, and Amber) and volunteers, executed two community events, CommunityFest and Taste of Winter Haven, that welcomed thousands of community members to downtown Winter Haven. That’s a pretty typical week.”

In many ways, the Chamber of Commerce works as a “movement organization.” Their clear goal: to advance commerce and community through serving, representing, and enhancing business growth. But, when referring to the Chamber, Worthington is identifying far more than the five staff members (including herself ) who make up the employees, or even the 22 volunteers who sit as the Board of Directors. “It’s actually over 750 businesses and their thousands of employees who are working on our initiatives,” she says. In short, a Chamber of Commerce is an association of businesses that has come together to move the community forward. And that is the sole focus of Winter Haven’s Chamber of Commerce.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

From an organizational perspective, the Chamber's focus is to create the greatest return on investment for members by advocating on their behalf, providing countless opportunities to grow their circles of influence (and ultimately

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their bottom line), and assist in marketing themselves. The Chamber serves as a connector, bringing members to the resources they need to strengthen their businesses.

“As a young person, or really a person of any age, it’s not hard to get involved if you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and get work done,” Worthington says. “There isn’t this ‘old boys’ club’ or web of political rigmarole to navigate like you see in other communities. There’s an access to make change like I’ve not seen in other areas. As a 25 year old, you can sit with the ‘influencers’ in the community simply because you want to learn and volunteer. And what’s amazing is those ‘influencers’ want more people involved, new ideas, collaboration etc. You just have to raise your hand.”

A CITY REVIVED

When Worthington reflects on the ways Winter Haven has changed over the years, she says it appears to be an entirely different city.

“Compared to when I started dating my high school boyfriend from Winter Haven in 1998, it’s almost unrecognizable. Downtown was a ghost town. When we came back from college in 2005, the city was completing its public investment in the downtown core, including moving the public library, [adding] streetscaping, and the park renovations.

“An injection of public investment has sparked almost $150 million of private investment in the downtown core which is what you see today,” Worthington continues.

“We have over 14 restaurants downtown, growing shopping options, and expansion onto feeder streets like 3rd to Grove Roots and The Bike Shop and down to Old Towne Square on the other end. Now the South Central Park renovations are going on, which is always painful during construction, but the end product will be a piazza specifically designed

for community events. It’s exciting to see that investment hopping over US 17 and 1st Street into the surrounding neighborhoods.”

A revived Cypress Gardens Boulevard, largely due to the LEGOLAND Florida Resort, has reshaped the tourism industry and the city’s visitor demographic to families with children age 2-12. “We still welcome thousands of ‘snowbirds’ each year,” notes Worthington, “and what we have found is that baby boomers want all the same things millennials do: walkable downtowns, arts and culture, unique cuisine, and a small-town community vibe.”

As far as home life goes, Worthington and her husband are overjoyed and “a little terrified” anticipating the new arrival of their baby girl. “Skylar Marie Worthington Decker … Marie and Worthington both being middle names because we couldn’t agree, and having Worthington in there was important to me.”

The couple enjoys staying active and taking advantage of all the nature that encircles the Winter Haven area, from the Circle B Bar Reserve to Lake Hollingsworth (Lakeland) to the Lake Howard trails.

Self-professed fitness junkies, Decker went to UF “and is a diehard UF football fan,” says Worthington, “although this year my UCF Knights shined more (and I didn’t let him forget it).”

Along with a love of running and cycling, Worthington enjoys the arts in Theatre Winter Haven and the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando.

Their two dogs (both eight years old: a mini Australian shepherd and a mixed breed they think is a Catahoula-beagle mix that is partially blind and deaf ) are “the sweetest cuddlers you’ve ever met. We’d have 10 dogs if we could.

Maybe someday.”

For now, Worthington looks forward to bringing little Skylar into the world, to a wonderful home and, without a doubt, a beautiful future for the city.

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BUSINESS

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THE BIKE SHOP OF WINTER HAVEN WRITTEN BY LEIGH-ANNE H E M E N WAY P O U

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AUSTIN

When professional wakeboarder Stewart Mackie began to face some unexpected ailments and injuries due to the sport, he didn't throw in the towel. Rather, he picked up a bike, found a growing community of bikers, and opened The Bike Shop of

863.299.9907 /

249 3RD STREET SW W I N T E R H AV E N, F L 33880

Winter Haven. Since the shop's opening in 2017, Mackie has encouraged a love of the low-impact sport throughout the city and has recently relocated, along with the addition of the new cafe N+1. Just another reason to swing by this beloved bike shop.

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Even to a town that has seen so much growth and energy in recent years, the addition of a cycling community is thrilling.

IN

the heart of downtown Winter Haven, a 30-yearold institution known simply as The Bike Shop of Winter Haven has found a new home. Formerly located on Cypress Gardens Boulevard, The Bike Shop of Winter Haven is now located at 249 3rd Street SW (catty-corner to Grove Roots). The pulse of our town is changing, thanks in part to entrepreneurs Meghan and Stewart Mackie.

Neither Meghan nor Stewart are strangers to business ownership. Meghan impressively has owned and run M.Marie, a fashion-forward boutique on Central Avenue in downtown Winter Haven, for almost 10 years. Originally from England, Stewart first came to Winter Haven through his professional wakeboarding career. He began visiting the area several years ago, simultaneously coaching wakeboarding and competing. It was on one of his trips that Stewart first met Meghan. The next year, they ran into each other again, began dating, and Stewart quickly realized he needed to make Winter Haven his permanent home.

The sport of wakeboarding can be very hard on a person’s body. Most wakeboarders end up with severe knee injuries due to the impact of their body hitting the water. In addition to the knee injuries, neck and back problems can also be common among this group of athletes. So, about six years ago — after dealing with a few of these common

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complaints himself, Stewart took a step back from his professional wakeboarding career (while still the owner of a wakeboarding school back at home in England) and began coaching. It was around this time that he began exploring cycling as a hobby.

Sparked by her husband’s growing interest in the sport, Meghan, along with her good friend Deanna Tanner, had the idea to start a local cycling club in January of 2017. At first their goal was to simply improve to their husbands’ levels, but quickly they realized they gained so much more. The Winter Haven Cycle Club has grown to a group of over 60 cyclists who meet each weekend for group rides. The club provides a tough Saturday ride and an easier Sunday ride geared toward beginners.

“Cycling has changed both of our fitness levels,” says Meghan. “It is low impact, and good for both your physical and mental health. I’m extremely lucky that Stew introduced us to this lifestyle.” Both Meghan and Stewart do CX-Racing (several laps around a short course of varying terrain, that sometimes requires the rider to carry the bike), and Stewart does road and TT (time trial) racing. Meghan impressively just completed her first Iron Man triathlon (no small feat!). She credits the sport of cycling with not only improving her competitive lifestyle, but boosting her social life as well, through the Winter Haven Cycle Club. It was also through WHCC that the Mackies first learned the former owner of The Bike Shop was interested in selling the business.

Once the sale of the shop was decided in September of 2017, it was always the Mackies’ intention to move it to a new location. Meghan says at first people thought they were crazy to move such an established business, but the customer base is loyal. As are the employees: Matt, Andy, Kris, Ed, Tristan, Jerry, Jessica, and Michael — who together have put in over 50 years at The Bike Shop and all of whom stuck with the Mackies through the transition from the previous owner. The Mackies say they are proud to be constantly learning from them.

Hailing from England, former wakeboarder and coach Stewart Mackie found his sweet spot due to a few injuries.

After turning to the lowimpact option of cycling, Stewart, along with wife, Meghan (owner of M.Marie), quickly found a community of cyclists in the city who share an equal love for the sport ... and the perfect excuse to take ownership of The Bike Shop.

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While the Mackies credit cycling as being an incredibly healthy, low-impact sport, they also discovered a tight-knit community. Cyclists throughout the area bond over coffee before and after biking, and often train together as well, with many of them entering triathlons and races.

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Over the next few years, Winter Haven will become a destination point along the Florida Greenways and Trails System plan. As a part of this plan, a bike trail through downtown will join an existing statewide system of bike trails.

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Since its relocation, The Bike Shop has expanded with the influence of local commercial real estate developer Six/Ten. In addition, the shop is now home to N+1 coffee shop, run by Shawn Gravitt.

Not merely a retail destination for serious cyclists, The Bike Shop is so much more. A variety of bikes are available, including cruisers and custom bikes. The shop employs three mechanics and a bike builder for service and repairs. Be on the lookout for informative clinics and special events that also take place in the space, truly making it a home base for the cycling community.

The Bike Shop is part of the big picture to grow the town, says Meghan. Six/Ten (a local commercial real estate developer) played a big part in securing the new location. Six/Ten has long been interested in having a bike shop in the area due to another exciting addition coming soon to downtown. Over the next few years, Winter Haven will become a destination point along the Florida Greenways and Trails System plan. As a part of this plan, a bike trail through downtown will join an existing statewide system of bike trails. Some of the appeal of biking along these trails are the destinations such as cafes and restaurants that cater to the cycling crowd and provide respite along the way.

Playing perfectly in to this idea, The Bike Shop is also home to N+1 coffee. The coffee bar is run by Stewart’s friend Shawn Gravitt. Gravitt has long been interested in starting a café, so the addition of N+1 to the shop provided the perfect opportunity for a collaboration. Among the cycling crowd it is common to meet up for a shot of espresso before a ride, and then another coffee after the ride is complete. A café like N+1 can also provide a stop or destination during a long ride. Not exclusive to cyclists, N+1 provides a relaxed coffee bar perfect for a friendly get-together

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or a relaxed meeting. The name N+1 comes from the Velominati The Rules, a book of cycling rules to live by. Specifically Rule number 12. “Rule #12: The correct number of bikes to own is n+1. While the minimum number of bikes one should own is three, the correct number is n+1, where n is the number of bikes currently owned.” Right now, the hours of the coffee shop are limited to Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Eventually it will be open the full operating hours of the shop.

Future plans for The Bike Shop include a variety of rentals for the serious or casual biker to be able to enjoy part of the statewide trail system. Another possibility for future growth is for the shop to become home to an indoor training studio. The studio would be for cyclists to come into the shop and learn power with the ability to do indoor interval training on their own bikes using a mounting system.

Even to a town that has seen so much growth and energy in recent years, the addition of a cycling community is thrilling.

The impact of the new trail is already off to a great start, and the ground has barely been broken. To the Mackies, whose hope is to see Winter Haven become more commuter friendly, bringing The Bike Shop home to downtown was a perfectly natural fit.

The Bike Shop of Winter Haven is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. More information about the Winter Haven Cycle Club, including events and membership, can be found at whcycleclub.com.

STYLE

in full bloom

WE KNOW WHAT YOU’RE THINKING. “FLORALS? FOR SPRING? GROUNDBREAKING.” AS THE FAMED FICTIONAL FASHION MAGAZINE EDITOR MIRANDA PRIESTLY FROM THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA WOULD SAY, WE’RE FULLY AWARE THAT SPRING FLORALS ARE NO REVOLUTIONARY IDEA. BUT IT DOESN’T MEAN WE CAN’T ELABORATE ON THE IDEA, NO?

written by MERCEDES JEWELL GRAINGER photography by JORDAN RANDALL hair & makeup by SPECTRUM STUDIO models ANASTASIA JONES CHRISTINE WILSON

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dress Target heels Belk earrings J.Crew

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There’s not a more telling sign that spring is on its way than spotting the flowers blooming in the ground, on the trees, and in our wardrobes. While the print isn’t necessarily anything revolutionary, there is a reason we see them taking over the runway each year, flooding street style, and finding ourselves craving some vibrant florals each spring. So we have set out to show you a few ways to make florals feel fresh for 2018.

You really can wear floral print just about anywhere and find ways to make it work for any occasion, season, or simply use it to brighten you up on a mundane day. From vacation to lounging, to work or running Saturday errands, adding floral prints is an instant way to make you feel instantly chic. (Never mind an instant mood-booster.) Just like a classic stripe, florals (even in the remnants of winter) can be utilized as a wardrobe basic.

We can all walk outside and look at what’s blooming around us and agree that the beauty of flowers is powerful. So why not carry that into our wardrobes and more often in a daily look? For my personal style, a good floral print evokes a sense of femininity and confidence. It’s what I wear when I might be having a bad week and want to get on my way to feeling like myself again. It’s what I put on when my husband says he wants to take me on a date. My favorite piece of floral clothing I own is a vintage, handmade, bold floral blazer that looks like the fabric may have come off of my Grandma’s curtains in the ’80s. There’s no quicker lift to stand out in a crowd than wearing something in a powerful floral print.

This season in particular embraces matching sets, playing with the sizing of the print whether it’s big and bold or small and dainty, mixing florals with other classics like stripes and gingham (another print having its own moment right now) and vintage inspired prints.

With plenty of ways to try the trend, there’s surely a way to sneak them into any outfit and offer a look that is truly a breath of fresh air for you and to everyone you may encounter.

dress Target heels Target

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top M.Marie pants Target

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dress M.Marie sandals Belk

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pants Target blazer Target T-shirt Belk boots Target earings TJ Maxx

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dress TJ Maxx sandals Target

CULTURE

A L A N D ’ S VA L U E = Its People + Its Sticks and Stones

written by JOHNNY LADERER photos courtesy of [STRANG] ARCHITECTURE

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The true value of a place, a piece of land, a town, or our country, is not determined only by its “sticks and stones” nor by its raw goods, lakes, and crates of oranges, but rather in tandem with its minds.

Progressive thinkers breathe life into land, creating healthy, inspiring homes which in turn inspire a new generation.

Here we introduce you to Max Strang’s new monograph. As we turn towards energy-efficient, healthy, site-connected building practices, Strang builds on established precedents set by Florida’s post-war modernist architects.

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ake Otis and downtown Winter Haven are dominated by Gene Leedy buildings. Max Strang grew up in Winter Haven, specifically on Lake Otis in a Gene Leedy house.

Leedy largely shaped the identity of a community, and if spaces shape people, it would follow that Max Strang has indelibly been shaped by Leedy’s work. A new monograph from Strang, titled Environmental Modernism, The Architecture of [STRANG], establishes this background for the reader quickly.

In exploring the topic of Gene Leedy for the last WH article, I had the pleasure of connecting with Max Strang. Strang and his team, being stewards of their craft and the ideals behind Florida modernism, rushed over a copy.

The book, a beaming-white brick,

L

Max Strang born 1971 Winter Haven Offices: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Sarasota Noted Works: Schokman Education Center (the Kampong)

is full of images that transport you to sun-specked moments framed by native materials, textures, and long lines. The architectural monograph is an interesting topic of conversation in itself. A time-honored platform for theory, documentation, and dissemination, the monograph serves as the voice of the architect.

At its best a monograph explores values and moves the ball forward in terms of the way we think about the places that shape our lives. At their worst they are simply high-ticket PR devices.

Living in Miami, where Strang’s primary practice is established, and being generally tuned into his work, I thought I knew what to expect. A quote

by Harwell Hamilton Harris preceding the prologue gave me a taste for how much more I was in store for: “A region’s most important resources are its free minds, its

Gene Leedy born 1928 West Virginia Offices : Sarasota and Winter Haven Noted Works: American National Bank, Winter Haven City Hall

imagination, its stake in the future, its energy, and last of all, its climate, its topography, and the particular kinds of sticks and stones it has to build with…” - Harwell Hamilton Harris, “Regionalism and National Architecture” † The contents include: a foreword by the eminent author Robert McCarter, a timeline of influences by Max Strang, an introduction by Byron Hawes, a selection of images of projects, an essay by Strang, and an interview. Together it amounts to an overview of influences and theories along with some shining photographic examples of these concepts manifested at their completed, albeit untested state.

Through the series of projects we are presented a record of Strang’s ability to build on the architect’s early exposure to the Sarasota School of Architecture.

The effect of this compounding succession that begins before his own time, Strang’s work is presented as being larger than himself. He successfully illustrates

that there is a higher conviction than mere personal aesthetic or brand.

In introducing The Case Study Programme in the Arts & Architecture magazine, John Entenza refers to the home as “the environment that is responsible for shaping the largest part of our living and thinking.”

STRANG’S CHILDHOOD HOME I won’t go into every anecdote or attempt to tell his full story here because, well, that’s what this book does so well. Strang tells his story of graduating from the University of Florida, working under Gene Leedy for a time before heading to Columbia University, and later working briefly for starchitect Zaha Hadid in London. After all his exposure to the avant garde and conceptual intellectualism, the work of Paul

† (August 22, 1954), Vincent Canizaro, ed., Architectural Regionalism: Collected Writings on Place, Identity, Modernity, and Tradition (New York: Princeton Architectural Press, 2007), 58,60,61,64.

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The Strang family home on Lake Otis by Gene Leedy.

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Rudolph and Gene Leedy still resonated the loudest. Strang has come back to Winter Haven frequently and has built two residences on Lake Otis. Strang muses there are rumblings of an effort to rename Lake Otis to “Lake Leedy.”

Another enjoyable anecdote: Gene Leedy taught a younger Strang how he photographs his own work using a Sinar camera.

Strang explains that this is the camera that captured the iconic images of Gene Leedy’s Craney spec homes with brilliant cobalt skies featured in the book Sarasota Modern by Andrew Weaving.

In Winter Haven, Max Strang has completed The Tanner Residence on Lake Otis, the Lake House also on Lake Otis, and the Raingarden row houses in downtown Winter Haven. He has also built a house in Mountain Lake and has designed a few other multi-family residences for Polk County: 2nd St Lofts, Lake Howard Lofts, and SummerWake.

Strang is exploring a new era of regional modernism

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for Florida, which is an approach that takes parts of the International Style’s reductive and global appeal but pairs it with local know-how and materials; place. A site-specific approach and an attention towards environment are always at the core.

T H E TA N N E R RESIDENCE The Tanner Residence illustrates a very direct and obvious trait of regionalism, the vernacular. With its corrugated tin roof it harkens back to Florida Cracker homes. Less obvious than the tin, but certainly more functional, is the way the house is elevated. Rather than disturbing the topography of the land, the house is lifted from the varying ground. This allows for the soil biome, which was living there before and sustains all life upward, to remain intact. Also the house is elevated from the ever porous

The Tanner Residence, elevated from the ever porous and saturated Florida ground,allows the earth to remain intact and the house dry.

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Images of The Lake House which sits adjacent to The Tanner Residence on Lake Otis. Long and low, it too sits tucked into native flora.

and saturated Florida ground.

This effect allows breezes to pass under and separates the inhabitant from the damp ground rendering them floating above the earth in true Miesien style between two horizontal planes. Surrounded by saw palmetto and sabal palms with the entry canopied by a live oak, it’s hard to miss how Old Florida informed the Tanner Residence.

Sitting adjacent on Lake Otis is The Lake House. The Lake House is similar in several ways to The Tanner Residence. Long and low, the structure is predominantly clean, white-painted masonry. Two key things distinguish it however:

It is much more reductive than The Tanner Residence, and it is anchored solidly to the earth.

Where The Tanner Residence has overt vernacular references tying it to the region, The Lake House leaves behind all materiality that would otherwise tip you off.

Where The Tanner Residence floats above the earth, The Lake House is solidly seated. A set of stairs, the full width of the house, descends down the hill towards the lake which gives the house a feeling of being extruded from the earth, rather than floating above it. Its long, low profile sits humble and snug amongst the landscape.

Its rear opens to the lake while

its front to an interior courtyard, allowing for “balmy breezes” to run their way through the house at will. This connection to climate is what early modernism aimed for and we are just now rediscovering in our post-A/Coverdose move towards all things health and environment oriented.

Raingarden, a modern multifamily development, smacks of Genes Leedy’s y-axis oriented apartments in downtown Winter Haven but with more glass.

Energizing a sleepy street in Winter Haven, this is a great example of how Strang continues to build on Leedy’s legacy. The vertical fins create shading and

Environmental Modernism: The Architecture of [STRANG] is available for purchase at The Shop in Downtown WH or at Amazon.com.

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privacy for the windows situated between them. The design effectively creates a feeling of openness while providing privacy with its entry courtyards, a Leedy staple. This project begs to start a conversation about reurbanization, suburban sprawl, and traditional planning principles. Let’s put a pin in that.

This monograph provides contextualization for Strang’s work. For the outsider it will easily show how Max Strang’s roots in Winter Haven have provided him with a conviction that connects him to us all. The story of Winter Haven’s architectural relevance didn’t start and end with Gene Leedy. There may have been a lull in inspired architecture in Winter Haven. The lull being the approximate time it took for a man, shaped by its land and early Florida modernism, to come back around. Strang’s decision to set up an office in Sarasota and work in Central Florida will no doubt inspire others now and in the future. Recall the quote from before: “A region’s most important resources are its free minds, its imagination, its stake in the future…” Max Strang has taken a stake in Winter Haven’s future.

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501 East Central Ave. • Winter Haven, FL 33880 Ph: (863) 293-1108 • Fax: (863) 291-6319 • Email: office@winterhavensmiles.com

www.WinterHavenSmiles.com

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EVENTS

RECURRING EVERY MONDAY SAGE-ING PROGRAM 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. mywinterhaven.com EVERY TUESDAY LEGO CLUB 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. mywinterhaven.com 2ND WEDNESDAYS MORNING BOOK CLUB 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. mywinterhaven.com EVERY THURSDAY TECHNOLOGY HELP DESK 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. mywinterhaven.com 2ND FRIDAYS PRAISE IN THE PARK 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

3RD FRIDAYS MINECRAFTERS 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. mywinterhaven.com FIRST SATURDAYS CRUISIN’ WINTER HAVEN 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

2ND & 4TH SATURDAYS DOWNTOWN MARKET 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

2ND & 4TH SATURDAYS SATURDAY AFTERNOON FAMILY MOVIES 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. mywinterhaven.com 2ND & 4TH SATURDAYS TECHNOLOGY HELP DESK 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. mywinterhaven.com

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Every second and fourth Saturday, the public library hosts family films. Don't miss April's feature film starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson, Wonder.

We do more than sell printers and copiers.

We provide clients with a customized business approach, supply them with the best products to fit their needs and offer support throughout the way.

Boring Business Systems (863) 686-3167 | boring.com

@ExclusiveCrPl

ExclusiveCruisePlanners

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EVENTS

APRIL

APRIL 21 4TH ANNUAL 863 LOCAL FIART FEST 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. mywinterhaven.com

APRIL 4-6 CITYWORKS(X)PO FLORIDA 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. mainstreetwh.com APRIL 6 RELAY FOR LIFE WINTER HAVEN 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. winterhavenchamber.com APRIL 7 3RD ANNUAL BIG BASS BLAST FISHING TOURNAMENT IN HONOR OF BAILEY TILLEY 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. mywinterhaven.com APRIL 12 AMANDA SHIRES AT GRAM PARSONS DERRY DOWN 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. mywinterhaven.com APRIL 13 CONCERT SERIES: MUSIC FOR THE MASSES 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. mywinterhaven.com APRIL 13 THE GATHERING GOOSE 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. mywinterhaven.com APRIL 20 DULCIMERS IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. mywinterhaven.com

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APRIL 21 FREE CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI TEAM SHOW 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. mywinterhaven.com APRIL 27 JUG BROTHERS BAND 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. mywinterhaven.com APRIL 28 3RD ANNUAL LAKESIDE EVENT 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. mywinterhaven.com

MAY MAY 4 BARK IN THE PARK 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. mywinterhaven.com MAY 17 CRAFT BEER CRAWL 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. mywinterhaven.com

Join Bark in the Park this May, and enjoy acoustic music, pet-friendly vendors, and breezy walks in the park with your pup.

Your peace of mind is our top priority.

How can I help with your life’s journey? Contact me today.

Peggy Bonner, 863-688-7921 ext.2260 pbonner@autoclubgroup.aaa.com autoclubsouth.aaa.com/peggy.bonner

Providing you with peace of mind is a big part of being a local insurance agent. But offering reliable insurance options to protect all that you hold dear is just the start. In addition to insurance, I can also help with a variety of AAA offerings that let you do more, worry less, and make the road of life easier to travel.

Membership . Insurance .Travel . Banking Insurance underwritten by one of the following companies: Auto Club Insurance Association, MemberSelect Insurance Company, Auto Club Group Insurance Company, Auto Club PropertyCasualty Insurance Company, Auto Club South Insurance Company, Auto Club Insurance Company of Florida, or non - affiliated insurance companies. 18-IA-2165

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HISTORY

Date: 1929 Bok Tower Gardens on opening day

Photo courtesy of Bok Tower Gardens

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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.

MAGAZINE ISSUE 7 PETERSONMYERS.COM • 863.683.6511 • LAKELAND | WINTER HAVEN | WH LAKE WALES

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