FOCUS Polk County 08-12

T H E M O S T A D V A N C E D H E A LT H C A R E I S C O N V E N I E N T.

We offer seven convenient locations, Board Certified Physicians, and a wide range of healthcare services for children two years-of-age and older, adolescents and adults.

Auburndale Family Health Center 2028 Highway 92 West (863) 965-9327

If you are looking for family health care that’s professional, friendly and convenient,

Bartow Family Health Center 1625 N. Carpenter Ave. (863) 533-1448

Your local Family Health Center offers a wide range of healthcare services for

Winter Haven Hospital invites you to visit one of our seven conveniently located Family Health Centers. children two years-of-age and older, adolescents and adults — including school physicals, immunizations, basic x-rays and laboratory tests, minor surgery and

Dundee Family Health Center 5999 Dundee Rd., Suite 750 (863) 292-4656 Haines City Family Health Center 36245 Highway 27 (863) 421-9801

routine gynecological exams.

When it’s your family’s health, you want the best doctors, the best nurses and next-door convenience. Our Family Health Center offices are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice.

Lake Wales Family Health Center 201 State Road 60 West (863) 679-9644 Southeast Winter Haven Family Health Center 6035 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

(863) 324-4725 Winter Haven Family Health Center 100 Avenue I Northeast (863) 292-4077 AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE

FIND A BOARD CERTIFIED DOCTOR CLOSE TO HOME: Call the Winter Haven Hospital Physician Referral Line. 800-416-6705.

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Save $2.00 on Adult & $1.00 on Youth General Admission Tickets at Sweetbay Supermarkets!

FEB. 28 - MAR. 10, 2013 • PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

®

Artists Appearing on the Soundstage: Order: www.flstrawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996

Thu. Feb. 28 10:30 Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra FREE Thu. Feb. 28 3:30 Chubby Checker $15 & $20 Thu. Feb. 28 7:30 FOREIGNER $25 Fri. Fri.

Mar. 1 Mar. 1

3:30 7:30

Gene Watson Casting Crowns

$15 & $20 $20 & $25

Sat. Mar. 2 Sat. Mar. 2 Sat. Mar. 2

1:00 3:30 7:30

Caroline Kole Gloriana Justin Moore

FREE $15 & $20 $15 & $20

Sun. Mar. 3 Sun. Mar. 3

3:30 7:30

Randy Houser Alan Jackson

$15 & $20 $45

Mon. Mar. 4

Mon. Mar. 4

3:30

7:30

Grits & Glamour with Lorrie Morgan/Pam Tillis Dwight Yoakam

$15 & $20 $20 & $25

Tues. Mar. 5 Tues. Mar. 5

3:30 7:30

Bobby Vinton Martina McBride

$15 & $20 $30

Wed. Mar. 6 Wed. Mar. 6

3:30 7:30

Neal McCoy Trace Adkins

$15 & $20 $30

Thu.

Thu. Thu.

Mar. 7 10:30

Mar. 7 3:30 Mar. 7 7:30

Steve Hall & the Shotgun Red Show Mel Tillis Brantley Gilbert

FREE $15 & $20 $35

Fri. Fri.

Mar. 8 Mar. 8

3:30 7:30

T.G. Sheppard/Janie Fricke Scotty McCreery

$15 & $20 $25 & $30

Sat. Mar. 9 Sat. Mar. 9

3:30 7:30

Gaither Vocal Band Bret Michaels Get Your Rock On 2013

$20 & $25 $25 & $30

Hunter Hayes Blake Shelton

$15 & $20 $55

Sun. Mar. 10 3:30 Sun. Mar. 10 7:30

BLAKE SHELTON

ALAN JACKSON

BRET MICHAELS

GLORIANA

DWIGHT YOAKAM

MARTINA McBRIDE

Get Your Rock On 2013

TRACE ADKINS

SCOTTY McCREERY

BRANTLEY GILBERT

JUSTIN MOORE

BOBBY VINTON

GENE WATSON

Concert dates and times are subject to change

Free Grandstand Seating at 3:30 & 7:30pm is on a first come, Mobile App. first seated basis.

BELLE CITY MIDWAY HIGHLIGHTS Thu. Feb. 28 Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Fri. Mar. 1 Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the Midway - Noon - 10 pm. Present any “My Essentials” non-perishable item at gate. Get $4 off Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book Moonlight Magic - $20 - 10 pm - 2 am Sat. Mar. 2 Kid’s Day - All Day Free Admission for Kids through High School Sun. Mar. 3 Mountain Dew Family Day - $5 off with Mountain Dew can - Ride all day for $20

Ride-A-Thon - $20 - 10 am - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Tampa Tribune & TBO.com Day Noon - 10 pm, $2 Off Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Get Extra $2 Off same Book with a Tampa Tribune or TBO.com Discount Coupon Moonlight Magic - $20 - 10 pm - 2 am Sun. Mar. 10 Mountain Dew Family Day - $5 off

Mon. Mar 4 Tues. Mar. 5 Wed. Mar. 6 Thu. Mar. 7 Fri. Mar. 8

with Mountain Dew can - Ride all day for $20

The Midway opens daily at 12 noon

except on Sat., Sun. & Mon., when it opens at 10:00 a.m.

HUNTER HAYES

NEAL McCOY

GAITHER VOCAL BAND

FESTIVAL FAVORITES

• Dennis Lee • Jay Taylor Band • The Sweeney Family Band Country Comedy Revue • Ron Diamond • Kandu Magic Show • World Champion Lumberjills • JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show • RUNA PACHA “Indian World” • Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers • Rock-It the Robot

LORRIE MORGAN Grits and Glamour

PAM TILLIS

Grits and Glamour

RANDY HOUSER

CHUBBY CHECKER

FOREIGNER

T.G. SHEPPARD

JANIE FRICKE

MEL TILLIS

Grow Financial FCU

AMERICAN HEROES DAY

RED HAT SOCIETY DAY Tues, Mar, 5th $2 Off Regular Gate Admission

Wed. Mar. 6th

All Active, Reserve, Retired Military, Military Veterans, Law Enforcement, First Responders (EMS & Fire Fighters) admitted Free all day with a valid ID

Florida Blue

SENIOR CITIZEN’S DAYS FREE CONCERTS Thurs, Feb 28th The Jimmy Sturr Orchestra Thurs, Mar 7th Steve Hall & The Shotgun Red Show Concerts 10:30am

CASTING CROWNS

FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

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CONTENTS | February 2013 | Volume 8 Issue 12

06-10 Local 11 Feature:

Heather Russo Cleans for a Reason

14 Spotlight:

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd

16 Business Profile 18 Fishing Expeditions 20 Dining Profile 24 Event Calendar 25 Downtown Directory

onthecover

Photograph Provided By Sheriff Grady Judd

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

Letter From The Publisher

DECEMBER 7, 8 PM

One of the neatest things about living near and working in Polk County is the people you meet who have invested years of time and energy into making our local communities better places to live.

They have such incredible stories to tell.

Our staff had the pleasure this month of attending events, visiting business and civic groups, gathering story info, and dining out in some of the coolest restaurants around. And the stories are everywhere.

What continually impresses us, more than words can express, is how much folks in this area care about their neighbors and neighborhoods, their customers, their peers and even strangers they’ve just met.

Needless to say, knowing and interacting with these worthy folks has given me pause to reflect about the value of serving one another in the town where we live. What if every person could find their niche in which to help others, whether through business, school, church, or civic organization?

How much better could life in Polk County become?

We hope you will enjoy this issue and always feel free to submit your ideas for future issues. ‘

DECEMBER 5, 7:30 PM

NOVEMBER 18, 2:30 PM

DECEMBER 12 7:30 PM DECEMBER 15 7:30 PM

DEC. 27, 7:30 PM

JANUARY 11, 8 PM DECEMBER 28, 8 PM

JAN. 16, 7:30 PM

JAN. 25 8 PM JAN. 18-19, 8 PM

JANUARY 22, 7:30 PM

FEB. 5, 7:30 PM

FEBRUARY 7 7:30 PM

FEBRUARY 14, 8 PM FEB. 20, 7:30 PM

FEBRUARY 18, 7:30 PM

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563

Office Manager Dede Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Copy Editor Linda Floyd editorial@floydpublications.com

www.thefocusmagazine.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

Office Manager Jared Guyer jguyer@floydpublications.com Sales Aldo Trevino | Joseph Roberts Cindy Cutting | Kayla Sherrard | Jennifer Chamberlain

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 7078783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

Art Director Anthony Sassano

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and many local venues.

Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane

Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

FEB. 21, 7:30 PM

FEB. 26 7:30 PM FEB. 25, 7:30 PM MARCH 12, 7:30 PM

MARCH 6, 7 PM

MARCH 14, 7:30 PM MARCH 20, 8 PM

Production Intern Abby Born FOCUSTV Shana Mitchell | Victoria Garren

Photographers Nate Mundell Photography Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles Derek Maul | Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis | Valerie McCutcheon Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis

formation For more in4-5110 863-83

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FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

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Local » Focus Howard Wilson Chorus, for the enjoyment of parents and Lake Ashton residents, as well as to raise additional funds for future grants.

Photo Courtesy of Lake Ashton

Full House Expected for Annual Fundraiser Supports Casino Night! Local Schools

Written By: Valerie McCutcheon

T

he Lake Ashton Recreational Vehicle Community Benefit Association (CBA) will hold its Ninth Annual Casino Night and Silent Auction on Saturday, February 23 at 7 p.m. Open to the public, this popular event draws crowds eager to try their luck at the craps or poker tables and participate in basket raffles and silent auctions for great prizes, with all profits going to Winter Haven and Lake Wales area students and schools.

Lake Ashton, a 55+ master-planned, active adult community in Lake Wales, is known for its generosity. It was declared the 2012 Florida Communities of Excellence Award Winner for Civic Volunteerism and Advocacy, and the Lake Ashton RV Community Benefit Association was named the Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce’s Community Service Organization of the Year in 2011.

When Casino Night began in 2004, the event raised $5,000 for playground equipment for Howard Wilson Elementary School in Lake Wales. Last year, the 2012 Casino Night reached a goal once thought unattainable: $50,000 was raised to benefit Polk County school children. “The old adage says that it takes a village to raise a child, and it really takes the village of Lake Ashton to respond to the needs of our area elementary schools,” says Volunteer Chair Karen Kissane.

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

The CBA has funded many different programs at various area elementary schools.

“We’ve purchased musical instruments like steel drums and violins, bought media equipment, uniforms, and all sorts of educational materials,” says member Ann Boogher. “The arts and music programs are terribly underfunded, or sometimes don’t even have a budget at all. Needs vary, and we have a grant committee to review and select the programs that we fund every year. We had over $100,000 in grant requests last year and were able to fulfill about half of that amount.

We’re hoping to be able to do at least as well this year, if not better.”

Grant requests are due back to the CBA in mid-March, and a ceremony is later held to award the checks to the area principals. Many teachers are present to explain how they have used the grant funds. “I was a school secretary for 18 years, and can’t get over some of the amazing multimedia things that they can put in the classroom these days to help the children learn,” says Boogher. “It’s excellent equipment, but it’s very expensive, and that’s where we come in.”

The CBA also hosts several concerts throughout the year by some of the schools that they’ve helped, like the Hillcrest Elementary Steel Drum Band and the Janie

Photo Courtesy of Lake Ashton

Photo Courtesy of Lake Ashton

Casino Night will be held in the beautiful Lake Ashton Clubhouse Ballroom (4141 Ashton Club Drive, Lake Wales) and will run from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person, which entitles the ticket holder to $5,000 in funny money, four raffle tickets and one door prize ticket. Tickets may be purchased by mail for $25 each by contacting LARV Benefit, c/o Ann Boogher, 4121 Limerick Drive, Lake Wales, FL 33859. The Community Benefit Association is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization, and as a non-profit the LARV Community Benefit Association Casino Night event activities are in full compliance with Florida Statutes, Title XLVT Chapter 849 Gambling.

For more information, contact Bob Howardson, Chair, at 863-398-0894.

Sponsors are still needed. For more information on becoming a sponsor, contact Charlie Schmidt at 863-318-8328.

Local » Focus

StreetsLightShining Up The Night Corporate Bright 5K in Downtown Winter Haven Written By: Valerie McCutcheon

E

ven after the sun sets on the evening of February 22, Downtown Winter Haven will remain aglow with runners, walkers and joggers illuminating the streets as a part of the first annual Light Up The Night Corporate 5K and Community Celebration.

Put on by the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven, the race begins at 6:30 p.m. in Downtown Central Park, and will be followed by an after party that includes live music and a food truck rally.

The event, in its first year, will fund three of the programs that the Junior League supports: Teacher Grants, A Mother’s Voice, and Family Fit Fest. A Mother’s Voice is a program that facilitates communication between incarcerated mothers and their children. Junior League members visit the jails to make recordings of mothers reading stories, which are then delivered to their children. Family Fit Fest is a free family event that focuses on fitness, nutrition and overall health awareness. Activities include games, family fun run, cooking demonstrations, health screenings, healthy snacks and prizes.

The Family Fit Fest will be held March 24 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., also in Central Park.

Light Up The Night event chair Lauren Jones said that a lot of interest in the race and rally has been generated already. “It’s something everyone is excited about. 5Ks and food truck rallies are very popular right now, and this is an event that we see growing each year. It’s something new for Winter Haven and focuses on bringing companies and individuals together for a really fun community event, and it fits right into the Junior League’s passion for promoting fitness, health and wellness.”

Sewing Machines Modern Fabrics Notions Books Patterns Classes

Participants can register online at active.com, and the entry fee is $25 for an individual, or $20 per person with a team of five. The after party and food truck rally runs 7 to 10 p.m., and runners/walkers receive free entry into the party. Prizes will be awarded for overall men and women’s times, as well as a team award for Most Spirited. Come join the Winter Haven community for a bright, good time…and don’t forget to wear your glow!

Sponsored by Bright House, Mosaic, Noble Juice and SEMCO Construction.

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Email LightUptheNight@JLGWH.com.

www.inspirequiltingandsewing.com 101 N. Collins Street, Plant City, FL 33563 813.704.4867 FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

7

Local » Focus attends school but travels to Orlando and St. Petersburg a few times a month for tests.

The money being raised goes toward helping with her family’s travel and medical expenses, but, as Donley explains, “It’s not just about the money. We’ll help pay their bills. This is about finding a match for McKinze, and also to raise awareness of the need for bone marrow donors throughout the country.”

BeTheMatch.org is a registry site operated by the National Marrow Donor Program. The process for being tested is quick and painless; Visitors can answer health questions on the website and will then be sent an information packet complete with four swabs that are rubbed on the inside of the cheek and returned in a postage-paid envelope. Donley spent a day at the program’s headquarters in St. Pete going over all the statistics, processes, questions, and being trained to use the kits to test others. They have kits available at their fundraisers, and representatives will also be present at the Wingin’ It! Festival at the Winter Haven Airport April 5 and 6 for more on-site tests.

Once the kits are returned, it can take up to two months to run complete tests of the specimens and to get the donor into the

Seven-year-old McKinze Clayton is desperately searching for a bone marrow donor.

Photo Courtesy Lora Donley

McKinze’s Crusade Polk County Mobilizes to Save Girl’s Life Written By: Valerie McCutcheon

T

o look at seven-year-old McKinze Clayton’s smiling face, you’d never know that the Lake Wales girl is hiding a heartbreaking secret: she needs a bone-marrow transplant urgently to save her young life. Originally diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome in 2012, test results in January 2013 showed her already grim prognosis had mutated into a second disease, Monosomy 7, a rare chromosomal disorder. Her chance of survival without a combination treatment of chemotherapy and radiation done in concurrence with a bone marrow transplant? A mere 12 months.

Since the diagnosis, friends and family have mounted a frenzied search to find the one perfect marrow match for McKinze.

Neighbor and family friend Lora Donley, a

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

self-proclaimed “Facebook nerd,” harnessed the power of social media and created a Facebook page called McKinze’s Crusade (facebook.com/McKinzesCrusade) to bring awareness to the local community and beyond. She has worked tirelessly by organizing bake sales, yard sale benefits, barbeques and donations from local businesses, musicians and individuals. The Polk County community has been mobilized to rally behind this little girl. “Everything that we’ve done, all the awareness that we’ve raised, has been thanks to Facebook,” says Donley. “Well, Facebook and [97 Country DJ] Sara Michaels! Use it in the right form, and it’s a miracle.”

McKinze is being kept alive through routine blood transfusions while waiting for a marrow donor to be found. She still

Photo Courtesy Lora Donley

system. Getting swabbed puts you in the national registry where you can be screened as a match not just for McKinze, but for anyone needing a life-saving transfusion.

Donors between the ages of 18 and 44 are especially needed. Donley wants to stress that if you are notified that you are a match for someone and decide to donate bone marrow, absolutely everything is paid for.

“They will fly you anywhere and pay for your hotel, rental car, food and medical expenses.

They’ll take care of your family back home, and will compensate you up to $24 an hour if you have to miss work. They will make sure that you don’t miss a beat financially.”

Throughout it all, McKinze’s spirit still shines bright. “She gets it,” says Donley. “Her mom is very open in talking with her.” She gets shy around large groups of people, but has gotten used to having her picture taken.

“We call her our little local celebrity,” laughs Donley.

For more information, visit McKinze’s Crusade Facebook page or BeTheMatch.org for a list of medical guidelines, frequently asked questions, and more information on the National Marrow Donor Registry.

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1/7/2013 11:56:37 AM

FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

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Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce presents:

March 23, 2013 10 AM - 3 PM At the

Plant City Airport 4007 Airport Road

Displays, Demonstrations, and Information:       

Planes Remote Control Planes Model Trains Automobiles Police Dog Demonstrations Fire Department Fly Overs Trophy Presentation at 2:30pm

Other things to do: 

Free Flights for Kids (space limited) Provided by the EAA Young Eagles

(ages 8-17, registration closes at 1pm)    



Kids Play Area DJ Wayne, Kustom Karaoke Vendors Scouting Badge opportunities (Aviation and Search & Rescue) Computer Flight Simulator

FREE ADMISSION  $5 PARKING

For More Information Contact: Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce - 813-754-3707 info@plantcity.org

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

r e R h t u a s e so H Cleans for a Reason

Lakeland Cleaning Co. Joins the Fight against Cancer Story by Amanda Furmage-Deck

L

akeland resident Heather Russo enjoys long distance running (She’ll be running her first half-marathon soon!) and watching her 13-year-old son excel on the baseball diamond, two interests many people can relate to quite easily. However, unlike most individuals, Russo has a passion for cleaning. In fact, Russo’s zeal for mopping floors, sanitizing countertops, and dusting furniture inspired her to start her own business in August 2012—the Lakeland Cleaning Co.

“As crazy as it sounds, I really enjoy cleaning, and through the love and support of my family, I decided to start my own business,” said Russo. “I love the feeling of accomplishment that comes after cleaning a home and I love when a homeowner doesn’t have to worry about cleaning.”

When not performing her full-time duties as manager of the Florida Turfgrass Association and volunteering for kidsPACK Polk Project packing and delivering food to local schools, Russo is busy cleaning for families in Lakeland, Davenport, Winter Haven, Bartow, Mulberry, Haines City, and surrounding Polk County communities on a weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly basis depending on customer preference. In addition to regular services which include dusting furniture, lampshades, and ceiling fans; cleaning light fixtures, mirrors, cabinet facings, and kitchen appliance exteriors; sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors; making beds and changing linens; and sanitizing countertops, sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets, the Lakeland Cleaning Co., a licensed and bonded business, also offers deep cleaning services for move-ins, move-outs, and newly constructed homes.

Because of Russo’s dependability, quality service, and customer word-of-mouth, the Lakeland Cleaning Co. has grown so quickly since its inception that she’s had to hire two part-time employees to keep up with the demand.

With her business rapidly becoming a success, Russo decided to provide a new type of service that would truly make a difference in her clients’ lives. In December 2012, Russo joined Cleaning for a Reason, a national nonprofit organization formed in 2006 dedicated to helping female cancer patients 19 years and older. Through her Cleaning for a Reason partnership, Russo can provide free professional cleaning services for women undergoing any kind of cancer therapy, those who are too tired or in too much pain from extensive treatments to perform the simple task of cleaning.

“I just wanted to give back, knowing I can help a woman battling the worst disease out there can instead focus on her health and spend more time with her family,” said Russo.

FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

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“These women shouldn’t have to stress about things like cleaning their homes. I want them to have a better quality life for the limited time they have.”

When cleaning a home, the Lakeland Cleaning Co. only uses all-natural products from Aromatherapy Naturals. Unlike commercial cleaners that contain toxic chemicals like ammonia, phosphates, peroxide, and formaldehyde, Aromatherapy Naturals products combine a powerful natural disinfectant (pure grain alcohol) with refreshing essential oils (spearmint, eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, orange, basil, lemon, lime, rosemary, lemongrass, tea tree, cinnamon, and clove bud). Not only are the all-natural products safe for cancer patients, but they are also the perfect solution for individuals suffering from allergies and asthma. In other words, you won’t discover the lung-inflaming chemicals found in Scrubbing Bubbles Antibacterial Bathroom Cleaner or the blood cell-damaging solvents mixed in Simple Green Concentrated All-Purpose Cleaner within the organic products used by Russo’s Lakeland Cleaning Co. “I only use Aromatherapy Naturals products and my clients love them,” said Russo. “And the fragrance is great; no harsh chemical smells like those that come with commercial cleaners, which is perfect for cancer patients.”

To date, Cleaning for a Reason has assisted more than 12,000 women with cancer and has donated over $3.2 million in cleaning services through its 1,000 partners in the United States and Canada. It’s apparent Cleaning for a Reason truly has lived up to its motto, giving women battling cancer “one less thing to worry about.” However, Russo is still searching for her first Cleaning for a Reason client.

“We’re the only maid service in Polk County associated with Cleaning for a Reason and I’m trying to get the word out that we’re willing to help,” said Russo. “It’s so important for me to give back to my community.”

To receive free services from Russo, female cancer patients must sign up at the Cleaning for a Reason website. By filling out an online application and providing an official doctor’s note, the organization will then match up clients with the nearest partnering maid service.

If an applicant lives within 20 miles of the Lakeland Cleaning Company, Russo will provide one thorough cleaning per month for four consecutive months to two patients at a time. Once Russo completes a four-month commitment, Cleaning for a Reason will recommend a new client for her company to assist.

According to the National Cancer Institute, over 6.5 million women suffered from cancer in 2009, and the numbers are on the rise. In fact, almost 1 million women are diagnosed with cancer of all types each year, whether breast, cervical, lung, etc.

In order to relieve cancer symptoms or destroy cancer cells, patients may undergo intense chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy treatments where their bodies are introduced to potent drugs and/or high energy rays, and depending on the severity of the cancer, these treatments can be repeated many times and can last for weeks. Some common side effects of these treatments include fatigue, nausea, pain, vomiting, digestive problems, infection, and blood clotting.

Although some patients may only experience mild reactions to cancer therapy, the last thing on their to-do lists should be cleaning their home. If you have a loved one in your family suffering from cancer and living in the Lakeland area, give her “one less thing to worry about.” Fill out a Cleaning for a Reason application and let Heather Russo take care of the dust, dirt and grime around the house while your loved one takes care of herself.

Lakeland Cleaning Co.

Phone: 863-797-4674 Email: lakelandcleaning@live.com | Web: www.lakelandcleaningco.com

Cleaning for a Reason.

Phone: 877-337-3348 Email: info@cleaningforareason.org | Web: www.cleaningforareason.org

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

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13

Polk County Sheriff

Grady Judd Celebrating 40 years

By Amanda Furmage-Deck

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd has an extensive resume in law enforcement. In fact, since entering the field of criminal justice as an 18-year-old dispatcher in 1972, Judd has climbed his way through the ranks at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, working as deputy sheriff, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major, colonel over law enforcement operations, and colonel over administration. And in November, Judd secured his third term as Polk County Sheriff in a landslide election victory, gaining 99.7 percent of the vote—a fitting way to conclude his 40th year of service at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Judd has high expectations for his upcoming four-year term. Although his main goals are to keep crime rates low and allow residents to feel safe in their homes and businesses (Polk County crime rates are currently at a 41-year low), he’s also committed to enhancing the community. Judd is currently working with Polk State College and the state legislature to build a new police academy at PSC. In addition, the county’s chief law enforcement officer is excited about advancing the Inmate Educational Program his office instituted in fall 2012. This jail-to-school curriculum provides inmates with educational and character-building television programming throughout the day which covers the topics of math, science, social studies, reading, health, drug prevention, responsibility, and relationships. Inmates also learn life skills and other applicable lessons from retired school teachers, current business professionals, and other volunteer mentors in a classroom setting—at no cost to taxpayers. They are seeking more community volunteers to assist with this program.

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Judd acknowledges he can’t achieve any of his goals without the help of a dedicated staff and supportive citizens. february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

agency with no success, she immediately called the Sheriff ’s Office. Instead of trying to open the shop, Judd’s deputies were able to contact a scooter company who donated a brand new electric scooter.

“It’s the negative things, the preposterous things, that make the news,” said Judd.

“Love, kindness, and warmth are things the news media does not deem newsworthy.

Yet for every negative reported about law enforcement, I can show you 10,000 positives.”

Apart from leading such a caring group, Judd believes one of his greatest career accomplishments is teaching at the University of South Florida and Florida Southern College where he has been given the opportunity to inspire the next generation of community leaders through motivating messages.

“The only person that can keep you from pursuing your dreams in life is you,” teaches Judd. “If you set your goals where you want them, work hard, and are honest, ethical, and moral, you can accomplish anything. But if you wait for people to hand you opportunities on a silver platter, your dreams will not come true.”

“I can’t accomplish anything by myself. I give all the credit to the men and women of the Sheriff ’s Office and the community that works hand-in-hand with us,” said Judd.

Judd works in a demanding field, and over the past 40 years, has witnessed some very heartbreaking events and has been involved in dangerous situations. Each day, he goes to work not knowing what he may encounter. While this may scare many away from pursuing a career in law enforcement, Judd is driven by a passion to help others in need.

Judd is proud to make higher education a key component of his service to Polk County. In fact, he was able to successfully convince a previous sheriff he worked under to reimburse deputies of college expenses.

Judd believes his other accomplishments over his past 40 years with the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office include working with the Board of County Commissioners to construct a new sheriff ’s headquarters, an emergency communications center, and a northeast district office near Interstate Highway 4 and U.S. Route 27, adding 1,000 beds to the county jail, building a Sheriff ’s Office memorial dedicated to members lost in the line of duty, working with detectives who have solved virtually 100 percent of homicides over the past three years, establishing faith-based dorms at the jail along with the jail-to-school program, and reducing county crime and victimization rates.

Yet maybe his greatest accomplishment is sustaining a strong, successful marriage with his wife of 40 years, Marisa.

“Marrying my wife was a strategic move because she is my greatest supporter, best friend, toughest critic, and the wind beneath my wings,” said Judd. “She pushed and coached me though college, especially when I was too exhausted and tired to go. My hours are brutal and erratic, but no matter how tough things get, she has never once told me to quit, come home, and spend more time with the family. She has truly sacrificed over and above so I can do the job the way it needs to be done. She is the center of my life.

Marisa supports the dream Judd has had ever since he was a young boy—to be Polk County Sheriff—and now that he’s achieved that dream, he doesn’t want to let it go.

“Unless people get tired of me, I’m not quitting anytime soon,” said Judd. “This is my home, where a vast majority of my friends live. My family is here, and I’m here to serve the people that I love.”

Congratulations to Sheriff Judd and his 40 years of service to Polk County.

“A college educated staff makes us a better organization and gives us more tools on our tool belts,” said Judd.

“I actually wake up before my alarm clock each day excited to come to work and do my part, to keep this a wonderful, safe community,” said Judd. “I experience heartbreaking events almost every day, but it’s my job to help the victims and to bring those that create heartbreak to justice…Some things will happen no matter what you do, but my deputies can be there for those who are experiencing tragedy. I coach and train my deputies to comfort people in need.”

In fact, Judd’s deputies consistently go above and beyond the call of duty. For example, when a local father realized his credit card had been stolen, and he did not have access to his account to buy his son’s birthday cake, Judd’s compassionate deputies showed up at the man’s home with cake, ready to celebrate with the family.

“I’m grateful I can work with and coach a team of fantastic people that care about the community they serve,” said Judd.

Another touching story involves an area woman that had taken her electric scooter to a local store for repair. However, the store had close down, and she was unable to get her scooter back. After calling a different law enforcement FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

15

Business Profile » Focus

Owner of Bull Bay Rods Kelly Phillips and son Dustin Phillips

Bull Bay Rods E Written By: Amanda Furmage-Deck

very child has a hero, whether an exceptional professional athlete or an invincible comic book character. Yet when Kelly Phillips was a young boy, his hero was his grandfather. In fact, Kelly and his grandfather formed an unbreakable bond by continually joining together in a special passion—fishing.

Although many years have passed since the days he spent fishing with his grandfather, Kelly still considers fishing his favorite pastime, a great way to escape from the pressure-filled, hustleand-bustle of everyday life. However, as Kelly became more experienced, fishing became more stressful. The mass-produced rods he purchased from big box sporting goods stores were too weak for the advanced fishing he enjoyed. As a result, Kelly began to handcraft his own line of high-performance, light-weight durable rods with greater sensitivity which provided him with a greater number of catches and a successful business, Bull Bay Rods.

Named after the world famous fishing locale in Charlotte County, Florida, Kelly began bringing Bull Bay rod prototypes to the market in September 2011 after about one year of product research and development.

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

What makes Bull Bay Rods so unique is its patent pending Senzigrip technology. Each Senzigrip is formed using a rubber compound adhesive which bonds directly to the rod, enhancing its sensitivity and allowing anglers to feel even the slightest tugs and pulls on the fishing lure. In other words, Senzigrip transfers the vibrations on the line right into the hand, giving fishermen a greater advantage.

“The Senzigrip lets you feel what your lure is doing on the other end of the line much better than any rod I have ever used,” said professional fisherman and Bull Bay rod user Brandon Barton. “I can even feel live shrimp twitching around trying to escape before getting eaten.

The feel the grip adds is why I love their rods.

You simply can’t find anything else like it.”

Furthermore, the hybrid Bull Bay rod blanks consist of composite graphite with a special fiberglass weave, increasing the rod’s durability.

In fact, Kelly has sold hundreds of Bull Bay rods over the past few years and none of them have broken.

“Our mission is to provide high quality products and superior customer service,” said Kelly. “We are not selling rods that are going

to break. We are not in the warranty business.

Our goal is for you to have the same rod for the rest of your life. This is a lifetime rod you can pass on to your children.”

Bull Bay Rods also provides customers with beautiful custom products as any logo, pattern, or picture can be placed inside the clear Senzigrip.

“We can put anything you want in a Senzigrip as it magnifies a logo, pattern, or picture as glasses would a piece of paper,” said Kelly. “We can design anything within reason inside the Senzigrip before we pour the mold.”

Since its inception, Bull Bay Rods has created a number of custom products such as a rod for an area deputy sheriff that included a picture of a badge inside the Senzigrip and a camouflagethemed rod for a member of the military.

However, the most popular product features licensed college sports team logos and color schemes as Kelly has forged several Florida State Seminole, Florida Gator, and Alabama Crimson Tide custom rods.

“When I say we can make anything, I mean it,” said Kelly. “There’s no limit to what we can do with this.”

Although Bull Bay Rods has shipped merchandise all across the country from Maryland and Washington D.C. to California

and Texas, the best part of Kelly’s job is hand delivering custom rods to Central Florida area customers.

“I love seeing a customer smile when I make a delivery,” said Kelly. “We get a ‘wow’ factor 99 percent of the time when we do hand deliveries.

In fact, about 85 percent of our customers have gone on to order a second or third rod because they love and trust our product so much.”

The high-quality, American-made Bull Bay rods are handcrafted by fishermen for fishermen, and the company plans to continue promoting its product to professional fishermen and experienced anglers all over the country whether they’re hunting freshwater bass or off-shore carp, grouper, sailfish, or tuna.

“We’re catering to those who know how to fish and have finally decided to break out and upgrade their equipment,” said Kelly. “If you take care of a Bull Bay rod, it will last you a lifetime.”

Information Bull Bay Rods Phone: 863-529-8991 Email: bullbayrods@yahoo.com Website: www.bullbayrods.com

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17

extra » fishing and continued to do so while slowly making our way back to our launch point, the causeway.

Although we didn’t catch any trophies, we did catch fish constantly throughout our voyage, making for a great day on the water!

If you are looking to get out and do some inshore fishing in the Pinellas area, you can contact me, Capt. Jared Simonetti, at 727831-0111 or www.CaptJared.com. And for all of your kayaking needs in Polk County, be sure to visit Action Watersports in Auburndale. They have the largest selection of new and used kayaks in the area. Once you get outfitted by Action Watersports, give me a call and I’ll show you how to use your new equipment. I am a Tampa Bay native, licensed and insured charter captain offering inshore and near-shore fishing charters, kayak trips, and boat tours throughout the bay area.

Let’s FOCUS on Fishing A Written By: Capt. Jared Simonetti

bout a month ago, I received a call from Joey Roberts of FOCUS Magazine looking to do some kayak fishing in the Dunedin area with me. So we set a date and finally met up at the Dunedin Causeway.

As we shoved off the causeway shoreline in our kayaks toward the “No Motor Zone” (NMZ) section of the Honeymoon Island State Park, I knew this was going to be a stellar day. And I was immediately proven right when we were greeted by a dolphin, always a great sight to see—especially in a kayak!

After a short, 10-minute paddle, we reached the first exposed shoal, where I made my first cast with a bucktail jig and instantly connected with a spotted sea trout. We caught a few more trout and a few ladyfish, and then

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

continued our way toward the bone dry flat just inside the NMZ.

Armed with 7’6” medium action rods loaded with 15 lb. Ohero braided line and ¼ oz. jig heads with soft plastic shad tails, we hopped out of our kayaks and went to work. As we waded down along the exposed shoal, I instructed Joey to cast to the deeper water where the game fish would most likely be waiting. However, we only picked up a few undersized trout and ladyfish, causing us to hop back in our kayaks and head for deeper water.

Over the next two hours, the tide began to come in, and Joey and I caught trout or ladyfish on almost every cast. Soon the tide covered the exposed grass flats, and we

decided to begin hunting for tails since sheep head and redfish move into these shallow flats in search of crabs and shrimp. This results in the fish sticking their tails out of the water, revealing their location, making for some great sight fishing.

Kayaks make the perfect vessel for this type of fishing as you can sneak right up on the fish without them even knowing you are there. During this time, we switched over from the ¼ oz. jigs to weedless soft plastics to avoid snagging the grass. However, this was a day the fish didn’t want to tail, so after a half hour of hunting, Joey and I traveled back toward deeper water.

As soon as we reached the deeper flats we began to catch trout and ladyfish instantly

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19

dining & entertainment » dining profile We sampled their dessert menu: Dustin’s grandmother’s banana pudding and a unique, European-inspired creation, Nutella cheesecake. This delightful treat was chocolaty and sweet, but not too rich, on an Oreo cookie crust topped with a “murdered cookie” and a whiskey whipped cream that blows away anything from a can. The whole slice was gone before we knew it! The pudding was light and creamy with the banana flavor, not overpowering, and was also topped with the whiskey cream and crumbled cookies.

To end the long feast on a truly European note, Dustin brought out a specialty coffee in a French press. Fat Maggie’s is the only location to serve the blend Intelligentsia in the Central Florida area. It can’t be found in Tampa or even Orlando. It’s bold, yet smooth, even served black and attempted to wake us up from our food coma.

Fat Maggie’s L

akeland’s newest barbeque joint dishes out innovative twists on classic comfort food in an intimate atmosphere, almost European in its relaxation, located just outside downtown. Fat Maggie’s is quaint and cozy, decorated with great attention to detail, from the Mason jar lighting, reclaimed wood pallet walls, and wooden tables (all handmade touches by Dustin), to the whimsical salt and pepper shakers on each table, including a set of kissing English Bulldogs, a homage to the restaurant’s namesake, Maggie the (bigboned) Bulldog.

High school sweethearts Heather and Dustin Olson opened the restaurant in December 2012 with longtime friend Kevin Berry, a dream years in the making. The Olsens spent about 10 years on the road, seeking out mom and pop joints for inspiration. “We did a lot of eating with intention, trying to glean what we could,” says Dustin, who has spent time in all 50 U.S. states and Italy. “We’ve tried to take what we love about little places and incorporate that here. We want to introduce you to something you’ve never had before.”

Our feast began with a truffle fries appetizer with chipotle ketchup, and some Kobe Beef corn dog pops served with a scratch-made sauce trio. The truffle oil turned ordinary fries into something spectacularly addictive.

The sauces, a house–made smoked garlic aioli made from whole garlic cloves, a sweet and tangy whiskey peach BBQ, and a spicy mustard complemented each bite nicely.

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

Custom burger topped with cheese, roasted red Photo by: Valerie McCutcheon

New BBQ Restaurant Opens in Lakeland; serves candied bacon! Written By: Valerie Mccutcheon

When we couldn’t eat or drink another bite, we left Fat Maggie’s feeling like we’d been to the world’s best Fourth of July barbecue with great friends. Come for the candied bacon; stay for the homey atmosphere and ribsticking, plate-licking good food!

“We make our corn batter from scratch, and hand batter and fry every corndog to order.”

Although labor intensive, the order of four pops was a reasonable $6.

Next, we tried a picturesque plate of pulled pork nachos ($10, plenty to share). The pork is smoked 12-14 hours then hand-shredded and generously piled onto handmade pillowy chips that positively melt in your mouth. The nachos are garnished with leafy green romaine, pico (tomato, onions and fresh jalapenos) and the kicker: beer cheese dip, made with Billy’s Chilies Ale. It’s creamy, with a slight kick. Try adding it to a burger, or just eat it plain!

Fat Maggies also gives customers the opportunity to play creator using a fun and unique way to order sandwiches and burgers.

Customers can pick their desired meat, bun type, cheese, and toppings - and give their concoction a name - by filling out a card. Our creation was topped with cheese, red peppers, served on a brioche bun with a mind-blowing finishing touch: candied bacon. We were hooked on the bacon glazed with brown sugar before we even finished chewing. You’ll be dreaming of the sweet and salty combination until you come in for your next fix!

Wash your entrée down with some cold beer from their selection of about 18: all craft, all in cans, all American and all from small breweries, including Cigar City Brewing right in Tampa. They’ve also added a red and a white wine to the menu, both are blends.

Owners Kevin Berry, Dustin and Heather Olson Photo by: Valerie McCutcheon

Pulled pork nachos Photo by: Valerie McCutcheon

FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

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february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

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entertainment » event calendar

Polk County

calendar of events

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Email your upcoming event to: editorial@floydpublications.com

JANUARY 31 – FEBRUARY 4

» Funky Leap Jam Art and Music Festival Five days of camping, live music and good vibes. Super Bowl displayed on Sunday.

2505 West Bella Vista St., Lakeland $85 or $95 funkyleapjam.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1

» First Friday: Lakeland Raiders Presents Central Florida Sports 5 – 9 pm Meet the hometown indoor football team Downtown Lakeland

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

» Arlo Guthrie 8 pm 139 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland polktheatre.org

Moonlight Carillon Concert 7:30 pm Hour-long carillon concert under the light of the full moon 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales $5, or free for members boktower.org

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3

» Founder’s Day Celebration at Bok Tower 10 am – 5 pm Live Carillon concerts at 1 and 3 pm included with general admission 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktower.org $18 adults, $8 children

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7

» George Jones 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

» Fantasy of Flight’s “Legends & Legacies: They Dared to Fly: Tuskegee Airmen” 10 am Several original Tuskeegee Airmen share personal experiences in open-forum/Q&A sessions.

1400 Broadway Blvd SE, Polk City fantasyofflight.com

» Kenny Rogers 8 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20

» Fiddler on the Roof 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime Street., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8 – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

» The Platters and the Casinos 7 pm Romantic night of love songs from the past 139 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland $28 or $23 863-682-7553 polktheatre.org

» Lawrence B. Brown Festival Free event with gospel and contemporary music, dancers, storytellers and more.

470 L.B. Brown Ave., Bartow lbbrown.com

» 55th Annual All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Festival 7 am to 5 pm 2220 N. Lake Ave., Lakeland $5 in advance or $6 at the door. Kids: $3 863-646-6683 » The Lakeland Raiders Fan and Media Day 10 am – 2 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland Free

» Veterans Job/Employment/Benefit Expo and Blood Drive 10 am – 3 pm Free parking and admission 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven 813-943-8583

» Yellow Jacket Stomp Adventure Run 10 am – 1 pm Fundraiser for outdoor art sculpture exhibit in downtown Bartow for ages 10 and up.

2250 S. Floral Ave., Bartow 863-529-8679

» Chalk for Charity 11 am – 8 pm Decorate Lemon Street in Downtown Lakeland with funds raised benefiting Knights of Columbus Global Wheelchair Mission and the Lakeland Citizen’s Police Academy.

863-688-8787

» Tracy Lawrence with Blackjack Billy Live in Concert at Boots N Buckles 7 pm 4951 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland $20 863-815-2668

» IN THE MOOD 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

» A Night in Paris: Valentine’s Day Dinner at Pinewood 7 pm Bring your sweetheart for a romantic walk at Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales boktower.org

» Masterworks Series: Pacific Rhythms 7:30 pm Winners of the ISO Young Artist Competition 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

» Vienna Boys Choir 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

» Smoke on the Water BBQ Competition 10 am – 5 pm Benefits the Citrus Center Boys and Girls Club of Winter Haven

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14

» Downtown Lakeland Food Truck Rally 6 pm Munn Park Tastingtampa.com

» Auburndale Auto Classic 11 am – 4 pm Enjoy viewing classic cars, food, and music. http://events.theledger.com/auburndale_fl/ venues/show/1077409-downtown-citypark-auburndale” Downtown City Park, Auburndale

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven florida.legoland.com

» 67th Annual Tiger BBQ 6 – 8 pm Welcome back the Detroit Tigers with a BBQ! 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland $50/Chamber member, $60/non-members, $25/kids under 12

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10

» Legoland Florida Daytime Party for Girls Entertainment, games, activities, characters celebrate girls and their individuality

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

» Main Street Bartow’s Friday Fest 6 – 9 pm Live music, vendors, kids activities, food, beer, Cruise-in 100 E. Main St., Bartow

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16

» Polk County Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo and Trade Show 9 am – 4 pm 1702 US Hwy 17 S., Bartow 863-519-8677 » 6th Annual Spring Training Kick-off Event at Polk Outpost 27 10 am Giveaways, bounce house, movie, popcorn, Detroit Tigers mascot appearance 101 Adventure Ct., Davenport 800-828-7655 » Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show, prize drawings, food and free games.

4:30 pm Free show on Lake Silver in Winter Haven » Brewz Crewz Craft Beer Festival 6 – 9 pm Munn Park, Downtown Lakeland $50 VIP, $30 General Admission, $15 Designated Driver 21+ Only brewzcrewz.com

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18

» The Lennon Sisters 50th Anniversary 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

» Light Up the Night 5K and Food Truck Rally Race begins 6:30 pm, Party begins at 7 pm Central Park, Downtown Winter Haven Jlgwh.org

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22 – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

» Ribs on the Ridge Annual BBQ Festival 5 – 9 pm Friday, 10 am – 5 pm Saturday 555 Ledwith Ave., Haines City 863-421-3700

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22 – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

» St. Sophia Greek Festival 11 am – 9 pm Great food, pastries, wines, dancing, demonstrations and more.

1030 Bradbury Rd., Winter Haven 863-299-4532 » Boy Scout Camporee Scouts can earn their American Heritage Merit badge at Fantasy of Flight 1400 Broadway Blvd SE, Polk City fantasyofflight.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

» Healing Heroes Freedom Fest Motorcycle and Car Rally 10 am – 5 pm Music, vendors and guest Ryan Hurst from Sons of Anarchy 4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland www.sun-n-fun.org

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25

» Mandy Patinkin: Dress Casual with Paul Ford on Piano 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26

» Russian National Ballet Theatre Presents Sleeping Beauty 7:30 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27

» Guardian ad Litem “I Am For The Child” Presentation 10 am Come hear how you can become an advocate for a child and be their voice in the court.

290 Cypress Gardens Rd., Lake Wales 863-534-4605

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

» Classic Albums Live presents: Beatles Rubble Sole-Revolver 8 pm 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland thelakelandcenter.com

COMMUNITY THEATER: » Little Women February 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16: 7:30 pm Sunday, February 10: 2:30 pm Florida Southern College – Loca Lee Buckner Theatre Johnson Ave and Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland 863-680-3089 Adults: $18, Students: $9 » Cliffhanger February 15, 16, 22, 23: 8 pm February 17 and 24: 2:30 pm 801 Ledwith Ave., Haines City $10 at the door hainescitytheatre.com » 9 to 5 February 21-23, 28: 7:30 pm February 24: 2:30 pm 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd SW, Winter Haven $19/adults, $17/students under 17 theatrewinterhaven.com

ONGOING EVENTS

1989 at the Polk Museum of Art Through February 10 800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland polkmuseumofart.org Polk Senior Games February 23 – March 11 polkseniorgames.org RussMatt Central Florida Baseball Invitational February 23 – April 20 russmattbaseball.com

LAPTOP SHOP

RKY SEAFOOD

175 Avenue A NW Winter Haven, FL, 33880 863-294-2300

535 Avenue B NW Winter Haven, FL, 33880 863-207-2348

Music World

MR. CLIPPERS 95 3RD STREET NW WINTER HAVEN, FL, 33880 863-662-7677

Advertise Your Business Here!

&

Fine JeWelry

Call 863.602.8118 and ask about our Downtown Directory.

48 3rd street nW Winter Haven, Fl 33880

863-299-0444

O’Neal Neal & Sons Upholstery

Quality Craftsmanship Spanning 4 Generations

AUTOMOTIVE

Seats and cushions • Carpets • Headliners • Door Panels Convertible tops • Vinyl tops • Tonneau Covers

HOME FURNITURE

Couches • Love seats • Chairs • Bar stools

MARINE

Seats and cushions • Carpets • Bimini Tops • Clear plastic Windows T-Top canvas replacements • Console and boat covers

COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS

Restaurant Booths and Chairs • Bar Railings • Long Wall Seats Custom Golf Cart Seats • Pool and Spa Areas • Customized Seating

2303 James Redman Pkwy., Suite G • Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: (813)-752-0405 • onealandsons@verizon.net www.onealandsons.net FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013

25

Q

Why should I use a Realtor over selling my home by owner?

There are a number of Benefits to using a Realtor over trying to sell it yourself but let me address the number one reason why people don’t want to use a Realtor…to save Money! or so they think. On a $200,000 home a commission of 5% is $10,000 and that nothing to sneeze at but it’s not as easy as you think to sell a home and that’s why over 80% of all For Sale By Owners (FSBO) end up with a Realtor. Why is going the FSBO route so hard to get done?

1.

You priced it too high- Many people simply don’t know what their home is worth in today’s market. They use Websites to get the value and websites just can’t adjust for daily variables that affect the market. There are so many things that can affect the price of your home that a website just can’t see.

2.

Lack of exposure- Some people think that putting up a used beat up “For Sale” sign just brings buyers a running to their house…it doesn’t it needs exposure. Just using a sign or putting it on some website doesn’t give it the exposure it deserves. Most Realtors have advertising budgets and can give your home more exposure than you can imagine.

On a side note if you use a Realtor you should ask them up front “how are you going to market my property” you’ll be surprised at the many ways a Realtor will Market your home and all of that comes out of their pocket whether your home sells or not.

3.

Buyers want some of your savings too- You didn’t think you were the only one trying to save some money did you? A buyer’s line of thinking is that since the seller isn’t paying a commission they should be able to offer less for the home and they typically offer at least 10% less than the sales price (double the price of commission) for starters. Expect a lot of low ball offers and that can frustrating to deal with also. A Realtor can show Comps in the area or show improvements to the property that can justify the asking price.

4.

Buyers can’t get in to see it- You have a busy schedule. Work, Kids, and Life in general just keeps you running. When are you going to show it?

Are you comfortable with the stranger you have walking thru your house?

Realtor show homes so you don’t have to be there and you don’t have to worry about your valuables either 5.

Can’t get Qualified Buyer- You need to be able to pre-qualify people before they see your home or you’re just going to get a lot of people who just want to see the inside. Realtors don’t get paid unless they sell it.

An Experienced Realtor will make sure that the person looking at home has their finances in order.

If money is the only issue to not use a Realtor than consider this. This is one of the biggest and most important investments of your life. A good Realtor can get you the value and price you deserve. If you need some no hassle advice or have questions then e-mail me at BobMiller@remax.net

BOB MILLER

Realtor Since 2006 | National Associations of Realtors Certifications CRS, SFR, RSPS, ABR | Sold more than 60 homes in 2012

REMAX PARAMOUNT PROPERTIES | 863.815.8000 26

february 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

Join Buddy and his LEGOLAND® friends as you Play Your Part in a 5K run/walk benefiting the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Fund for Women and Children.

Weave your way throughout Central Florida’s newest family theme park from the entrance through Fun Town, Miniland USA, LEGO® City, and Water Park!

5K Awards - Overall Male and Female, Male and Female Masters, and the top three Males and Females in each age group (10 & Under, 11-13, 14-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 & Older).

All participants must be registered for the event at least one hour prior to start time. Race day registration begins at 5:00 a.m. Pre-registration packet pick-up will be available the week of the event. Event parking will be free to all Citrus Classic participants at LEGOLAND® Florida. Admission to the Citrus Classic 5K does NOT include LEGOLAND® Florida park admission for the day. However, discount admission pricing is available to all Citrus Classic participants.(Registration and admission fees are non-refundable)

3 Ways to Register!

Saturday, April 6, 2013 LEGOLAND® Florida

• Mail: completed entry form with registration fee • Call: (863) 292-4138 • Online: www.active.com (Only available through April 3, 2013; Additional transaction fee)

Scan this Code and Register Today!

One LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, Florida 33884 5k run/walk start time: 7:00 a.m. • Awards presentation to follow race

REGISTRATION FORM

Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

SATURDAY, April 6, 2013 LEGOLAND® Florida Winter Haven, FL 33884

5:30 AM - Race Day Registration & T-shirt Pick-up 7:00 AM - 5K Run/Walk Start

$30 Adults* $25 Winter Haven Hospital and LegOLAnd® Florida employees* $20 Children Ages 12 & Under* *Add $10.00 to registration fee if registering day of event.

Fill Out & Mail To: Winter Haven Hospital Foundation, c/o Citrus Classic, 200 Ave. F, N.E., Winter Haven, FL 33881 (Postmarked by March 15, 2013 guarantees T-shirt size)

City, State Zip ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sex:

M F

Date of Birth __________________

T-Shirt: YM

YL S M L XL 2XL

INCOMPLETE OR UNSIGNED ENTRY FORMS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. In consideration of my entry being accepted, I intend to be legally bound, and do hereby for myself, my heirs, and executors, waive all rights and claims for damages which may hereafter accrue to me against Merlin Entertainments Group Florida LLC d/b/a LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven Hospital, or any subsidiary or political division thereof, its or their respective officers, agents, representatives, successors, assigns and sponsors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation in the 2013 Citrus Classic even though that liability may arise out of the negligence or carelessness on the part of the entities or person named in this waiver. If I should suffer injury or illness, I authorize the officials of the race to use their discretion to have me transported to a medical facility, and I take full responsibility for this action. I attest and verify that I am physically fit and hereby grant full permission to any and all of the foregoing to use any photographs, videotapes, motion pictures, recordings, or any other record of this event for any purposes of the event whatsoever.

I HAVE READ THE ABOVE RELEASE AND UNDERSTAND THAT I AM ENTERING THIS EVENT AT MY OWN RISK.

Signature ________________________________________________________________ Date: ______________ (Parents Signature if under18 years of age.)

For information on how to register, sponsorship opportunities, or vendor information, contact: 863-292-4138 or Foundation@winterhavenhospital.org FOCUS Magazine polk county february 2013 Register Online at: www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=2071804

27

Since 1945

Central Florida’s Largest Orvis Dealer

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Orvis Fly Fishing and Spin Gear Fly Fishing Schools & Fly Tying Equipment Outdoor Clothing Waders Boots and Shoes Battenkill Canvas and Leather Luggage Fishing Flies - Central Florida’s Largest Selection Dog Beds Gift Collection

336 Magnolia Ave. • NW Winter Haven, Florida (863) 299-9999 • andythornal.com • Mon-Sat • 10am - 6pm