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Runners gathered early Saturday morning for Bok Tower Gardens event

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An Edition of the Sun

VOL. 89 NO. 18

Kiwanis Club honors Cynthia Rignanese

In Lake WaLes sInce 1926 and FrostprooF sInce 1922

WEDNESDAY MAY 6, 2015

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Hotel work progresses Workers now using lights to work at night The worst possible solution Perhaps the six most frightening words in the English language are: “There ought to be a law.”

In our unending search for simple solutions to complex problems, we utter that phrase in impatience, consternation, or disgust.

Too often, we get what we ask for.

It is significant that the antithesis of this simplistic fix also is called a law: The Law of Unintended Consequences.

A classic example, currently in the headlines, is legislation a few years ago mandating a plethora of tests in Florida schools, so many tests that classroom time was significantly reduced by the time consumed by testing. This was the unintended consequence of legislation designed to produce better educated students.

This year, the Legislature passed a new law limiting the number of hours of testing and eliminating some of the previous mandates. Time will tell if it brings with it its own unintended consequences.

More frightening even than the efforts of Florida’s 160 legislators — few, if any, of whom are educators — to micromanage education are the calls for amendments to the United States Constitution to right every perceived wrong in the Republic.

The most recent is Hillary Clinton’s proposal to bring about campaign finance reform with a Constitutional amendment. It is difficult to keep a straight face when

FRISBIE | 12

INDEX |

By KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ klberkowitz@heartland newspapers.com Lake Wales was excited to see lights go up on the Dixie Walesbilt Hotel at night, or at least that is how it seemed when over 9,000 people viewed the photo on The Lake Wales News Facebook page. And there are only a few lights, for now, as the Friends of the Hotel and hotel

owner Ray Brown continue to paint and do other construction, said Reid Hardman, on of the Hotel Friends.

“They look cool regardless,” Hardman said, noting the group is trying to figure out how to wire those lights permanently.

At a swim meet all weekend last week, Hardman said someone told him the lights were up, and he saw them as he returned to town.

“It’s an eye grabber for sure,” he adds.

“Pretty soon, it will be lit up. It is pretty cool.”

The small crew has been busy with the restoration. Some paint has gone on with a sprayer.

Some has been hand painted with a brush, such as trimwork.

And prior to any paint has been surface preparation.

HOTEL | 12

PHOTO BY KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ

How long has it been since you’ve seen the lights on at the top of the Dixie Walesbilt Hotel? The lighting allows workers to paint in the evening and can be seen from U.S. Highway 27.

Degree Day at Warner, Webber

Ed Bowlin wants to see city workers’ salaries tied to a percentage of the governor’s annual income. A petition backing the campaign will likely start circulating this week.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT BLANCHARD

Campaign aims to limit city workers’ salaries

Graduates, above, file into the courtyard as the Processional begins for Saturday’s 2015 Warner University Commencement program. Pages 22-24.

STAFF REPORT

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd receives an Honorary Degree presented by Webber International University President Dr. Keith Wade at Friday’s 88th Annual Commencement at Webber International University in Babson Park.

Roosevelt Academy hosts Garden Sale

By CHARLES A. BAKER III Roosevelt Academy will host a Spring Garden Sale Thursday where attendees can sample food and wares all credited by students.

The sale is from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Rumor has it that the school FFA club will have gator tail for sale in addition to hot dogs and other snacks.

Roosevelt Academy science teacher and owner of Swamp Boys BBQ will also be selling his world class wares.

Other than some of the

SALE | 12

Tami McCormick, far left, turns an old bowling ball into a gazing ball you can buy for your garden at home, a process than can take up to eight hours. Other students pictured and making items for the sale are Kevin Conn, Maria Batutista and Reagen Alberts.

A petition drive to limit top salaries at city hall violates the law, according to Lake Wales’ city attorney. Citing the city charter, attorney Chuck Galloway said any attempt to cap salaries by a voter initiative is prohibited.

“Section 8-87(a) specifically provides that the power to adopt an Ordinance by Initiative ‘. . . shall not extend to the budget or capital programs or any ordinances relating to appropriation of money, levy of taxes or salaries of city officers or employees,’” wrote Galloway in an email Monday afternoon.

“Florida Attorney General Opinion 200279 approves of such limitations.”

Galloway was responding to a proposed petition drive that would cap

the salaries of the city’s highest paid officials.

“The city attorney is a buffoon. This will not stop me in the least,” said Ed Bowlin, who co-authored the petition with fellow community activist Leon Weech. Bowlin, who had been hoping to start circulate the petition this week, cited Florida statutes and a similar successful effort by Polk County voters in 2000 to install a salary cap on city workers. “And that was ruled constitutional by a judge. Galloway’s opinion is an attempt by “the city to stop the democratic process,” Bowlin said.

A member of the city’s Charter Review Committee in 2010, Bowlin helped lead a successful campaign for two-year city commission terms and is well-versed in making changes to the city charter.

SALARY | 12

THE NEWS: Community 2 | Viewpoint 4 | Opinion 5 | Police 9 | Obituaries 16 | Calendar 20 | Sports 26 | Home & Garden 39 | Pets 42 | Health & Wellness 43

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Lake WaLes PeoPLe

Rignanese: 24 years of perfect attendance

Lake Wales Kiwanis President Larry Tonjes presented fellow Kiwanian Cynthia Rignanese with the 24-year Perfect Attendance Award at a Kiwanis meeting in April. The award included a pin and certificate.

“It is a pleasure to have Cynthia focus on leadership, scholarship and our auction,” said Tonjes in making the presentation.

“I was new to Lake Wales when the Rev. Bobby Boggs and Marty Hancock approached me about membership in 1991, as I had already done pro bono with Kiwanis to form the foundation and scholarship trust via my boss at the time, lawyer Mike Crews,” said Rignanese in accepting the award. “Joining Kiwanis was one of the best decisions I made, as I have met lifetime friends and been able to actively participate in the lovely community of Lake Wales.”

Bowling celebrates with end-of-year banquet

Brenda Eggert Brader

bbrader@tampabay.rr.com

end-of-the-year banquet at Kegel Training Center in Lake Wales. The men and women on the bowling team had an amazing 2014-15 season, said Athletic Director Bill Heath, who opened the banquet by congratulating the players and coaches for a remarkable job this past season.

Award winners are Verity Crawley and Stuart Snedden, Striving for Excellence Award; Amber Ottilige and David Lance, Patient and Present Award; and Desiree Negron and Aaron Yuratovich, Constant Learning Award.

LWHS student earns chamber scholarship

and presented at a recent Chamber luncheon. Her essay was picked by a few third party judgeS, said Charlotte Kosek of the chamber.

Kaley attends Lake Wales High School and is an involved multi-sport student athlete with a weighted 4.2 GPA. She was class president in her freshman year, was on the executive board, has her EKG certification and was a Top Student in Weightlifting and Medical Class. Kaley volunteers at the Lake Wales Care Center, High Point Church, Lake Wales Little League, at Bok Academy, Babson Park Elementary and FBA. Kaley is described as a leader, determined, self-motivated and works well in a group.

New nurse practitioner joins family practice

Mitzie Elizabeth Ballintine, a licensed advanced registered nurse practitioner Congratulations goes to Kaley Hinds (ARNP), has joined Dr. James Nelson in who has won the $500 scholarship given The Webber International University his practice at by the Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce the Lake Wales Warriors bowling team held its Family Practice, 1110 Druid Circle across the street from the Lake Wales Medical Center.

Ballintine is board certified in family medicine by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She Mitzie Elizabeth has worked as a Ballintine medical-surgical nurse, caring for acute and chronically ill patients and as an intensive care PHOTOS PROVIDED nurse for 13 years. Ballintine holds an AAS degree and her BS both in nursing from Medgar Evers College of Nursing Lake Wales Kiwanis President Larry Tonjes presented fellow Kiwanian Cynthia Rignanese with in Brooklyn, and her Master of Science her award.

degree in nursing from the South University in Tampa in 2014. She is a member of several nurse-related professional organizations.

“I am excited to welcome Mitzie to the practice,” Dr. Nelson said. “With her education and clinical background, she will provide excellent care for our patients and allow us the freedom to accept new patients into our practice again.”

Get your news in this column!

The Lake Wales News welcomes all those happy family occasions — births, reunions, anniversaries, engagements and weddings, graduations, student honors, grandchildren’s and children’s achievements and special awards, anyone having a birthday — that make sharing them with the community part of that pleasure. And don’t forget to attach the photographs. All those group occasions make great art.

How about employees making changes at work, receiving honors, promotions or retiring? Schools have fundraisers, award presentations and induction of honor students; races, challenges and competitions. Churches honor volunteers, have people in special mission work, recognize those who provide music every week, teach Sunday school and share in the praise of children’s communions or confirmations?

The easiest part is to just send me the what, why, when and where and who in an outline or a list form with a contact phone number and I do all the rest, putting it together and the writing so there are no hassles or worries for the person supplying the information.

So share your news and photographs by sending all information to Brenda Eggert Brader at bbrader@tampabay. rr.com.

Honoring tomorrow’s leaders today Youth Leadership Class 2015 graduates

By KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ

klberkowitz@heartlandnewspapers.com

“I have learned more about my hometown than I have in 14 years,” said Eugene Smith, who plans to one day be a Supreme Court judge and is also the Junior Class president, when town and school leaders gathered at the Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce Luncheon honoring the graduation of the Youth Leadership Class 2015, held April 17 at First Baptist Church.

The group was welcomed by Kevin Respress, chairman of the Chamber and the Lake Wales Economic Development Council.

Keynote speaker was Dr. Martha Santiago, provost, Polk State College Winter Haven and JD Alexander Center, Lake Wales.

Quoting Mother Teresa, who said, “A life not lived for others is a life not lived,” she congratulated Youth Leadership Class 2015 for their accomplishments, saying “You are never too old or young to be a leader.”

Santiago noted there are many Polk State students who went all out in pursuing their dreams, including a student who beat cancer three times and is now touring on a bike ride for cancer awareness, a student who studied criminal justice and received a lucrative scholarship to a prestigious school, and yet another, who

studied environmental science and built a green house out of water bottles.

Her talk included 7 “Life Principles” she urged the Class of 2015 to remember.

“Eagles fly with eagles,” she said, noting that Polk State’s mascot is the eagle. “I can see provosts here somewhere,” she added.

Eagles do not hang with chickens, they fly with those who can reach the same heights they do.

Strong vision is Life Principle 2. Eagles focus on their prey and go after it, she said. “No matter the obstacles.”

She said students should be careful what they feed their eyes and ears.

Additionally, principle 3 says that “Eagles love the storm.”

“When clouds gather, eagles get excited. They use it to raise their height,” she said, adding “achievers relish challenges.”

Other principles included “test before you trust,” when it comes to business commitment, “prepare for change,” and “thorns in life teach us to move on.”

“Shed old habits,” she said, adding “keep learning and growing.”

Kara Wiseman, the Youth Leadership coordinator, along with Krista Thompson, Lake Wales High School volunteer coordinator, were honored for their work.

Wiseman said it was her honor and privilege to work with each of the students.

“This is a really smart group of kids,”

PHOTOS BY KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ

Youth Leadership Class of 2015 smiles for their graduation photo. These are the leaders of tomorrow, but wait, they are already leading today. Tomorrow will be a piece of cake for them.

Watch for great things from these students. she said.

She also thanked businesses present, who allowed students to tour their businesses.

Students had high remarks.

One, Kaley Hinds, the winner of a $500 scholarship for the Florida Essay contest, said, “It’s amazing that I can be born and

raised in Lake Wales and still have no idea how much this town has to offer.”

Youth Leadership Class of 2015 graduates were: Sydney Brewner, Allison Briggs, Brenda Carranza, Kaley Hinds, Courtney Jacobs, Savannah “Taite” Powell, Joaquin Rodarte, Solymar Rodriguez, Eugene Smith, Emily Varel.

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 3

Page 4 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Viewpoint

Cultural opportunities on an 83-cent budget

Looking for a cultural outlet for you and your family, one that will provide an array of activities for all ages without charging Disney-like admission fees?

How does this sound?

• Admission to one of the finest historical museums in the state for you, your kids, and your guests, five days a week. Artifacts and photographs tracing the history of your community from the days of the Civil War to the current time are on display. Also a dug-out canoe found in Lake Walkin-Water (Lake Weohyakapka to purists), believed to have been made around 450 A.D. Cost? Free.

history through hands-on activities. Cost? Free.

• Self-guided or staff-assisted tours of Polk County’s 106-year-old historic courthouse. Cost?

Free.

• Book club meetings, commemorations of historic milestones, and other events. Cost? Free.

• Looking for an outdoor venue that will allow you to take in a little fresh air as you experience life of yesteryear? Yes, that’s part of the deal. Cost? Free.

• Participation in interactive quizzes and exhibits on Florida attractions, including the history of Kissengen Springs. Cost? Free.

• Research in one of the finest genealogical libraries in the southeastern United States, with the support of a professional staff. Cost? Free.

• Participation in monthly lunch-and-learn lectures on topics ranging from Polk County’s role in the Civil War to an era when every small town, including phosphate mining communities, had its own adult baseball team. Cost? Free.

• Review of an inventory of 175 historic sites in Polk County and their role in the history of Florida.

Cost? Free.

• Monthly family fun days, geared to the interests of children but with the participation of their parents, events designed to instill an interest in

As a Polk County resident, you already have free access to all of this, thanks to the Polk County History Center with its museum and genealogical library on Main Street in Bartow, and the Homeland Heritage Park, with its collection of early structures, including Polk County’s oldest schoolhouse.

The History Center is supported by a county budget of $500,000, or about 83 cents for each of the county’s approximately 600,000 residents.

Dollar for dollar (or 83 cents for 83 cents) it’s one of the biggest bargains in county government.

That budget is supplemented by support from sources like the Polk County Historical Assn., a 501(c)(3) organization, which was formed in large part to generate funds for the History Center; the Florida Humanities Council; and the

Our Viewpoint

Smithsonian Institution.

A growing number of Polk County businesses are underwriting exhibits at the museum, and some 500 families have donated artifacts for display.

The typical reaction of first-time visitors? “Wow, I didn’t know this place was here!”

The building in which it is located was Polk’s third courthouse, built in 1908 at a cost of $83,890.

In 1998, the county commission committed $3 million to a project to renovate the building and restore it to its former grandeur.

What is now Homeland Heritage Park, originally the home of the badly neglected Homeland School building, was rescued from sale (reportedly for a travel trailer park) when an alert reporter from this newspaper spotted a “consent agenda” item authorizing the sale at a school board meeting.

“Over my dead body!” she declared, firing the first shot in a lengthy battle to preserve the school and create a pioneer-style community around it.

The school has been restored, and several buildings, from a church to a log cabin, have been moved to the site from various Polk County locations.

While survival of the old courthouse, like the old Homeland school, seemed to be in jeopardy only a few decades ago, both have become focal points for preservation and celebration of Polk County’s history.

Both are worth a visit. After all, you’ve got 83 cents a year invested in them.

Taking inventory Most businesses that sell or produce products take inventory at least once or twice a year. It’s always good to take inventory. It lets us look at our record keeping and make sure it’s accurate. It also allows us to step back and look at things from another perspective, giving us time to reflect and re-evaluate what we have and what we need.

Therefore, over the next few months we would like to take inventory on the spiritual effectiveness of our endeavors to make the City of Lake Wales a better place to live and raise our families. This month we are going to look at our contribution to civic programs. Although we cannot address the contributions of each individual church in our area, since each one has missions and objectives that are unique to their ministry.

We can however, look at the city as a whole and see if we together are making progress. A little over a year ago the Coalition awarded the Lake Wales Police Department a plaque signifying a 37 percent drop in crime over a three-year period. Wow! What a great accomplishment! We will continue to keep an eye on this as the body of Christ works with local law enforcement to help our city whenever possible.

Two extraordinary programs initiated by High Point Church and now organized by the Coalition are the SOS (Serve Our Schools) and Body of Christ Work Day. SOS is a collaboration of churches and schools whereby churches are assigned to certain schools to do projects, tutor, help with backpack programs, etc. The Body of Christ Work Days provides believers an opportunity to get together and complete work projects throughout the city creating a

John Kimbrough

Kevin Respress

Business, Civic and Ministry Coalition sense of ownership along with potential financial savings for the city.

Another program initiated a couple of years ago by First Baptist Church and Fire Chief Jerry Brown, eventually joined by the Coalition, was the Smoke Alarm Giveaway. Volunteers went door to door offering batteries and smoke alarms to those in need and possibly saving lives in the process. The smoke alarms were graciously supplied and installed by our local Fire Department.

Prayer was offered at every home and many homeowners joyfully accepted.

Last year the Coalition helped initiate the Entrepreneur class at Lake Wales High School. Principal Donna Dunson and class instructor Bill Lockhart have now developed an expanded entrepreneur program for students with several school businesses up and running.

Students are being empowered through Entrepreneurship.

At noon Thursday, May 7 we are joining believers across the nation for the NATIONAL DAY of PRAYER. We will meet at City Hall with City and County officials along with Pastors and leaders from various churches in prayer for God’s favor on our community.

Everyone is welcome.

There are many efforts going on throughout the city by a number of churches and organizations that are focused on enhancing the city to be a better place to live. We are all grateful for them. However, there is still much to be done. The breaking down of the family structure is having a profound impact both here and throughout the nation, and our civic structure is most definitely affected by it. We need to do much more in this area. About 20 pastors and leaders from our area will be attending the Family Research Council’s Watchmen on the Wall Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., this month. FRC is the largest Christian lobby in America.

We hope to learn more ways to enhance our community on this trip.

There are other programs that need to be envisioned and implemented.

We look forward to helping organize

community gatherings downtown to enhance community spirit and celebrate relationships with one another.

The Coalition is willing work with the City, the Chamber of Commerce, the Churches, and The Lake Wales News on this. Our publisher, Jim Gouvellis, has a heart for our city and has expressed his desire to help.

We’re moving slowly but picking up steam. The Bible admonishes us not to despise small beginnings (Zech 4:10).

We are open to any suggestions you may have to promote good will for the city. Please let us know. Next month we will look into the area of business and commerce and how we might have a Spiritual impact to improve our economy. God Bless our city.

Kevin Respress and John Kimbrough are co-directors of Business Civic and Ministry Coalition

We welcome your letters Letters are welcome on virtually any subject, but we do have some rules. Please keep them to less than 250 words. Letters will be edited to length as well as grammar and spelling. All letters must be signed with full name — not initials. An address and telephone number must be included. The phone number and address are not for publication, but must be provided. The Letters to the Editor section is designed as a public forum for community discourse and the opinions and statements made in letters are solely those of the individual writers. Readers in the Lake Wales area can send letters and column submissions to letters@lakewalesnews.com or mail them to 140 E. Stuart Ave., Lake Wales, FL 33853.

Sun Newspapers Page 5

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Letters to the editor

Investment in the future

A recent decision of the Polk County Commission should have multiple benefits for residents, in ways that the Commission has probably never considered.

When four commissioners voted to end their multi-year moratorium on the collection of development impact fees, they not only took some future tax burdens off the backs of homeowners, they also made an investment in future jobs, home values, and quality of life in our neighborhoods.

Each new home that is built competes in the local real estate market against the supply of existing homes for sale. When impact fees create a

small increase in the cost of new home, they are effectively giving other sellers breathing room to compete. Higher home prices result, which improve the dreaded ‘comps’ that often interfere with sales.

Rising home values are one of the greatest confidence-builders in the marketplace. They encourage investment in both new homes and existing homes. They allow homeowners to obtain equity loans and make needed repairs, employing painters, roofers, plumbers, cabinet-makers, and dozens of other trades-people.

Improvements to homes create a cascading effect in a neighborhood,

both allowing and encouraging others to make improvements. The result is a boosted economy, greater over-all confidence, and a higher quality of life.

Improved appearances of Polk neighborhoods also improves our competitive position and reputation.

Impact fees do a lot more than defray some of the cost of growth.

They also help reduce the tax burden on existing homes and businesses.

When a study says that ‘X’ is the cost of services to a new development, then ‘X,’ or a number very close to it, should be the fair fee, not 25 percent of ‘X’ as was generally accepted by the commission. Yet, half-a-loaf, or even a

quarter of a loaf.

The leadership shown by Commissioner George Lindsey in marshaling those very limited fees through a reluctant commission was gratifying, as was the insight expressed

by Commissioner Melony Bell regarding the will of the people. We can only hope that the very modest fee schedule adopted for next year can be moved to a more realistic level in the future.

Our economy, reputation, and quality of life will all be enhanced when that happens.

ROBERT CONNORS Lake Wales

Former police officer: Make bad cops pay Let me start by saying I have walked miles in their shoes for 34 years.

I was in law enforcement in New Jersey, Alaska and Florida. I always considered myself a good cop, out there to protect and serve. Were there bad cops back when I started? Yes, there were, and I learned real fast that when the good cop tries to report the bad one, the good cop is blackballed.

What I have seen is the beating and shooting of citizens is mostly by bad cops. When I hear the excuse “I felt like

my life was threatened,” let’s get one thing straight: every day that you put on that uniform you never know if you’re coming home.

I’ve watched videos recently of cops either beating a subject on the ground who does not appear to be fighting back, running away and being shot in the back, or lying on the ground being choked by a hold that was banned by that agency years ago.

I even saw a video where the cop had the man on the ground, who did not

appear to be resisting, punching him several times, then a K9 officer turned his dog on the man, who died.

What disturbed me the most about that incident, is that was the agency where I started my career: Vineland, NJ. During my 34 years, I was shot at, punched, and even had a man come running at me with a machete, yelling in Spanish.

I put my hand on my holstered gun, put my left hand out and told him to stop. He did stop, grabbed the blade

with his left hand and then handed the machete to me, handle first, and said, “I just took this from some crazy S.O.B.” The problem I see today is that the bad cops are getting more violent and because they are not held accountable, it will get worse.

It’s time that the legal system steps up and starts doing the right thing and makes bad cops pay for their outrageous behavior.

WILLIAM SIMPKINS Bartow

Praise people for a job well done Too many times in this game called life, we tend to always look at the negative side of things and fail to look at the positive side. We need to take time to praise people for a job well done, not criticize them for something we don’t like. I have lived in Lake

Wales almost fifty-five years and I am proud to call this town home. The Fire Department and the Polk County EMTs need to be commended for a job well done. I had an emergency several weeks ago and had to call 911.

Both of these groups responded and

did a tremendous job. The minute they got to my house, I knew I was in good hands. I do not know how many individuals came to my house, but I do know I felt like they were angels sent by God to take care of me. They did their job and did it well, and as

a result, I am here today to say a big “Thank You.” This is just another reason why I feel blessed to live in Lake Wales.

KAY BROWN Lake Wales

A bad marriage that can’t dissolve Will the Republican-on-Republican warfare spilling out of the botched ending of the 2015 session have lasting political consequences for the party?

It’s too early to say. Most rank-and-file voters are not focused on Tallahassee, although they might notice if lawmakers fail to pass a new state budget and government services shut down on July 1 — a possibility but not a certainty.

But the legislative GOP divide is not helping the party, which is preparing for an epic battle for the presidency next year in the nation’s largest swing state.

“Circular firing squads never help win elections,” said Sen. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, who is considering a U.S. Senate bid next year.

The more important question about consequences may be how this intraparty squabbling will impact the long-term relationship between the Republican-led House and Senate.

Legislative blowups are common. The iteration usually goes something like this: Blowup. Kumbaya. Blowup. Kumbaya. In the end, a resolution is reached leaving both sides, if not happy, at least accepting.

But the magnitude of this meltdown was deeper — the most significant since Republicans took control of the governor’s office and Legislature in 1998.

Each side has its grievances.

in charge over in the House.”

But while the senators complain about House rigidity, House leaders say the Senate members can be equally obstinate.

“When you’re negotiating with someone and they’re not negotiating in good faith, it’s reasonable for one side to say, ‘Hey you know what? When you’re willing to come to Paula Dockerycan be contacted at the table and have a rational conversation, pdockery@floridavoices.com like you would have with your spouse or your kids, then you know we would be happy to sit down with you,’” said Rep. Senate leaders, who have more legisMatt Hudson, R-Naples, a House leader on lative experience, complain about the health care funding. impact of term limits bringing a horde of At this point, the Senate-House relationfresh-faced House members to Tallahassee ship looks like a bad marriage. The problem every two years who are not well-versed is the partners can’t get a separation much in the etiquette of the legislative giveless a divorce. They will just have to learn to and-take on major policies. They cite live with each other. the rigid discipline imposed on the GOP Their next test will come when they meet House members, who rarely stray from the in a special session to settle a $4 billion leadership position. difference on their budget plans and deal Gaetz, a former Senate president, said Senate President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, with the Senate’s plan to expand Medicaid, which is adamantly opposed by the House. has not been able to establish the proThe question is: On July 1, will it be ductive relationship with House Speaker Kumbaya or a continuing blowup?

Steve Crisafulli, R-Merritt Island, that Gaetz had with former House Speaker Will WINNER OF THE WEEK Weatherford.

Lawyers. Gov. Rick Scott filed a lawsuit “Kind of like an old married couple, we against the federal government, alleging never let the sun go down on bitterness or the Obama administration is trying to anger or disagreement,” Gaetz said. “I’m “coerce” Florida into expanding Medicaid. sorry that President Gardiner hasn’t had Senate Democrats filed a lawsuit against that kind of a partnership with whoever is

Paula Dockery Political Ponderings

the House, alleging the chamber violated the state Constitution by ending its session three days early. The litigation may result in more billable hours but it is not likely to ease the contentious atmosphere in Tallahassee.

LOSER OF THE WEEK Collegiality. There have always been tensions between the House and Senate — it’s a natural byproduct of a bicameral legislature. And tensions are often highest in the final days of a session when the fate of many bills is decided. But this year’s meltdown in the final week of the session won’t soon be forgotten, although Republican legislative leaders may eventually heal their differences over the long term.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “We have done all that we can do for this session,” said House Speaker Steve Crisafulli, R-Merritt Island, in making his surprise announcement that the House was ending its 2015 session three days early — a move that angered the Senate and resulted in the death of dozens of major bills.

Paula Dockery is a syndicated columnist who served in the Florida Legislature for 16 years as a Republican from Lakeland. She can be reached at PBDockery@gmail.com.

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Page 6 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Our Children’s Academy expanding

By KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ klberkowitz@heartlandnewspapers.com Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce held their first ever Business During Hours, with a barbecue lunch held on the grounds just outside Our Children’s Academy, Friday.

The Chamber was given a tour of Our Children’s by Principal Debra Johnson.

Our Children’s theme this year is Jungle, and students are encouraged to hang their work, various art projects, displays, in the halls. There’s also a major academic push this year, Johnson says.

“We want to make sure we are still serving our children’s ESE needs,” she said.

All of Our Children’s is tailored to the needs of each individual student.

And the school, like other schools, has needs.

Chamber member Howard Kay admired the bookshelves, and said, “So you need books?” to which Johnson noted, “One of our biggest needs is chapter books,” in addition to books for third grade and up.

There are 217 students currently at Our Children’s Academy.

Regarding the size,

Johnson said, “We think that is a nice spot to be for us.”

“We make use of every corner.”

That is why they need a new facility, one that is a permanent structure, and not modulars.

The school, which is a public charter school, is not part of the Lake Wales Charter Schools, nor is it a private school.

They have purchased land, 7 and a half acres west of High Point Church on Burns Avenue, for their new facility, which they hope to have finished by January.

“Our children deserve real buildings,” she said,

“They have been here long enough.”

As such, there is a capital campaign underway, and donations are welcome.

The school has a high percentage of autistic students, Johnson says.

Our Children’s draws students from all over the county, including the Highway 27 corridor to I-4 and the county line. They share buses with Roosevelt Academy, about 27 buses in all, from Polk County Schools.

Johnson spoke highly of her staff at Our Children’s.

“We love what we do. My staff has hearts the size of Texas,” she said.

The Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce held their first ever Business During Hours event at Our Children’s Academy. Before lunch, members were given a tour of the facilities by Principal Debra Johnson.

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Howard Kay, president of Unity in Community and a member of the Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce, bends down to pet the therapy dog at Our Children’s Academy during a tour presented by the school, Friday.

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PHOTOS BY KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ

Sun Newspapers Page 7

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Circle of Friends Cafe Courtyard is finished Photos By Kathy Leigh BerKowitz The Lake Wales Circle of Friends celebrated the dedication of their new Cafe Courtyard last week.

Sponsored by the International House of Pancakes Restaurant, Center State Bank, and staff at the Circle of Friends, the event held a special breakfast for all who attended.

Among the local officials who came to see the new courtyard was Economic Development Council Director Kevin Kieft.

A new fountain was dedicated as well.

PHOTOS BY KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ

Jaclyn Magnone smiles and greets everyone in attendance at the Breakfast Dedication of the Circle of Friends Garden, which took place last week. The Circle celebrated the completion of their beautiful courtyard.

Smiles are contagious when the Circle of Friends gets together. Founder Mert Kelly (white skirt, flowered blouse), enjoys a moment in the middle of the day.

Left: The grand fountain bedecks the middle of a courtyard corner.

Bob Kelly helps fill the newly installed courtyard fountain at the Circle of Friends.

Economic Development Council Director Kevin Kieft and Bill Redmon of Lake Wales Breakfast Rotary watch as Bob Kelly fills the new courtyard fountain.

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Reggie from the Circle of Friends shows a quick thumbs up for the camera.

Page 8 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Wojcik looks back on career of service

By LARRY GRIFFIN

community,” she said. “There was a block of three of them that voted together all the time. I felt the interests of the chamber and the city were the same — the Betty Wojcik’s career in economic betterment of the community.” development, spanning back over 40 As director of Chamber of Commerce years and through multiple states, has and the Economic Development Council, been about getting things done. It was she was adamant about changing the the nature of her job, she said, “to move status quo. After her election, some of around every few years or so.” She’s rethe most important things she thought tiring now, after a final four-year stint on the Lake Wales City the commission got done included the C-Street project, which had been put off Commission, but for many years, to replace the sewers in she has a long the northwest end of the community. The legacy behind her that she is satisfied first phase is completed, she said, and the second is underway. She also helped put with. a new fire station up on the north side of Wojcik was always vigilant about town, she said.

Even in the decade she’s lived in Lake trying to better the community — Wales, Wojcik has impressed several people — including two past Chamber whichever community she lived in presidents in Ellis Hunt Jr. of Hunt at the time. Earlier Brothers and Jerry Miller of Citizens Bank.

Betty Wojcik Hunt called Wojcik “talented and drivin her career, she en” and said she was known for “doing traveled and worked in Georgia, Illinois more than the average person would.” and other states, working in economic He also regretted that she left before development positions. the relationship between the Chamber “Each community is in a different place economically,” she said — so it was and the city of Lake Wales improved to how it is today — with a city employee important that she kept a keen eye for working directly with the Chamber. how to help each individual community When Wojcik was employed by the she lived in and worked in.

Chamber, the city had its own economic “I was drawn to those communities development person who did not work that had financial difficulties,” she said. with the Chamber.

“They needed to grow members and “When Betty was here, we didn’t have programs to make them stronger. It was a niche I always fell into. I never went after a direct, working relationship with the city,” Hunt said. “Now, inquiries come huge, well-funded organizations. It was rewarding to build a strong organization.” in to Kevin (Kieft, current president and Wojcik said moving so many times was CEO of the Chamber and Economic Development Council), who is part of the challenging but fun — like “starting over chamber.” every time.”

If Wojcik had had the improved conBeneath the professional economic nection between the Chamber and the knowledge, Wojcik has a deep love for city, Hunt thought she could have done community. It was always important to even more. her to work to help people.

Miller was ambivalent about Wojcik’s “I guess I’m one of those people who retirement, if only because he respected wants to give back,” she said. “To me, the work she’d done for the city. community was very important.”

“I’m happy for her, but sad for the Despite living in many different places community,” he said. “I think we’re losing and working many jobs over her more than 40-year career, Wojcik said she made someone who’s given us a lot, on the Chamber, the commission and more.” connections and became attached to He said that although the Chamber was every community she was involved in.

“One of the big things (about my job) is doing fine before, Wojcik’s involvement that you get totally involved in a commu- gave it a big boost.

“When you think of a leader, you think nity,” she said. “You become part of the of how they left the organization,” he said. establishment. I was in Lake Wales for “That’s success if they left it better. We about seven years, which is a long time. needed her leadership. When she came But it was good because I chose to retire on, we didn’t have much funding. Month here.”

This, she said, was one of the things she to month was a challenge. We were at a crossroads. We needed someone who missed most after stepping down from could get the board all on the same page her position on the Lake Wales Chamber and organize us. She did that.” of Commerce.

In retirement, Wojcik will miss the In 2005, she came to Lake Wales for hustle and bustle of her working life — the first time, and was only one of 21 but she will also find time to enjoy other certified developers in the state at the things. time. She didn’t like some of the things “I plan to do some traveling and visit she observed the commission doing at my grandkids,” she said. “I paint, so I the time. want to get some painting done. And I “When I got here, the commission want to relax a little.” was not very supportive of the business News CorrespoNdeNt

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Call today and subscribe to the Lake Wales News and see for yourself.

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Sun Newspapers Page 9

POLICE

BEAT

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

The information is gathered from police, sheriff’s office, Florida Highway Patrol, jail and fire records. Not every arrest leads to a conviction and guilt or innocence is determined by the court system.

Man urinates in front of Tax Collector’s office Compiled by Kathy Leigh Berkowitz klberkowitz@ heartlandnewspapers.com

A man was arrested for public urination April 24 after police say Douglas Tatro was walking in front of the Tax Collector “and found the need to urinate in public.” This was witnessed by a passerby who notified police.

Officers found Tatro and filed a complaint affidavit on him for disorderly conduct.

Woman hit in lip with pellet The complainant said she was walking to her car in the parking lot at the Preserves Apartments and felt something hit her lip and cause swelling and stinging. She realized her lip was swollen and bleeding and took herself to Winter Haven Hospital where a doctor removed an odd-shaped projectile out of her lip. It appears the projectile was a pellet.

There are no suspects in this case at this time.

Battery According to police reports, on April 21, Maria Rodriguez and the victim got into a verbal argument and Rodriguez allegedly slapped him in the face. Police say Rodriguez denied the allegation, however, there was a witness, they say, who confirmed she did batter the victim.

She was arrested and transported to the Polk County Jail without incident.

Suspended license According to reports, officers conducted a traffic stop and discovered the driver, Rachel Manautou, had a suspended license. Police say she admitted that she had received a notice from DHSMV informing her that her license was going to be suspended if she failed to provide proof of insurance. She admitted that she failed

to do so and her license was suspended on March 31, 2015, police say. She was taken into custody and transported to the Polk County Hail. Her vehicle was released to a friend with a valid license.

Rock breaks window Police responded to a home on Winston Avenue regarding a complaint of a rock being thrown through a victim’s window. The victim woke up to the sound of breaking glass.

She turned her lights on and ran outside to find a white male running away from her apartment building. While officers were responding to perimeter positions, police located a suspect matching the description provided, walking North on 4th Street near Grove Avenue. The victim positively identified the subject as the person she saw running away from her apartment. Police say the suspect was identified as Juan Gutierrez.

Gutierrez was sweating profusely and speaking erratically. Gutierrez provided several different versions of where he had been and what he had been doing, according to reports.

Gutierrez admitted he had been in Orangemont Apartments, but denied being in the area of building D. Gutierrez’s shoe impressions were found between buildings D and E and his sandals were seized as evidence.

Further investigation showed the victim’s door had been unlocked from the inside, suggesting Gutierrez reached through the broken window and attempted to gain entry, police say.

Gutierrez was placed under arrest for burglary to an occupied residence and criminal mischief.

Gutierrez has an extensive arrest history including burglary, felony theft, and trespassing, according to reports.

Theft of pregnancy test Police arrested Erin Brandon on April 14 after she allegedly attempted to exit Walmart with a pregnancy test concealed in her purse. According to reports, Brandon had been previously given a trespass warning from Lake Wales Wal-Mart and arrested for retail theft from another Wal-Mart.

She was also charged for trespass after warning.

Brandon was transported to the county jail without incident.

Criminal mischief to a vehicle According to reports, a complainant reported a criminal mischief to her vehicle while it was parked near the batting cages and the ball fields on North Lakeshore Boulevard. She stated she returned to her vehicle in between games and found the handle on the driver’s door and front passenger door were damaged. She did not see anyone around her vehicle and there were no witnesses to the incident. Due to no suspect information, this case is inactive.

coming from inside the vehicle. A search revealed illegal narcotics. The driver was arrested driver for the traffic charge and the passenger for the narcotics charges.

No seatbelt and no license Police stopped a driver at Polk Avenue and Scenic Highway who was driving a silver Nissan Altima and not wearing his safety belt. Officers then discovered the driver, Adrian Sesena, did not have a valid driver’s license. Sesena was transported to the Polk County Jail after being given a citation for not wearing his seat belt.

Battery arrest According to police reports, officers were sent to an address on Hillside Avenue in reference to a battery. Officers made contact with the reporting person who advised her son, Robert Mundell, was extremely intoxicated and had been drinking. Police say Mundell allegedly began throwing items

Hit and run at Auto Zone On April 25, an employee of Auto Zone observed a blue truck strike a parked Auto Zone vehicle in the parking lot of Auto Zone and then leave the area. Though the employee witnessed the incident, they were unable to provide a tag number, and could only advise that the suspect vehicle was last seen pulling onto Highway 60 headed west bound.

Traffic stop turns into arrest According to reports, on April 25, police stopped a vehicle for having a tail light out.

Police discovered then the driver had a suspended license and officers could smell the strong odor of marijuana

Man critical after SR 60 crash

PHOTO PROVIDED

Armando Flores was thrown from this pickup after he wrecked on State Road 60 in Alturas Friday morning, May 1. down in the area for approxHospital with critical and imately two hours and then life-threatening injuries. reduced to one lane of travel Deputies found that his each way for another two Florida driver’s license was hours. The investigation is revoked. ongoing.

The roadway was shut

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State Road 60 eastbound between Lake Wales and Bartow was closed for two hours Friday morning, May 1 when a pickup truck crashed.

The incident happened around 6 a.m. when a white F-250 pickup truck traveling eastbound, about 1/2 mile east of Alturas Road, for unknown reasons left the roadway and rolled over twice, ejecting the driver, the only occupant of the truck.

The driver, Armando Flores, 27, of Bartow, was airlifted to Tampa General

throughout the house and threatened to kick in the windows to her vehicle. She said Mundell had become physically aggressive towards her by grabbing her by the wrist and squeezing it.

Mundell was arrested for battery domestic-violence and transported to Lake Wales Police Department for book-in procedures and taken to the Polk County Jail.

Battery charges filed According to police, at C Street and Washington Avenue, Kesha Staton allegedly battered Shaunte Simmons, then Simmons battered Staton.

Both parties wanted to press charges. Both were arrested and charge with battery.

Argument escalates According to reports, police responded to E Street and Lincoln Avenue regarding a report of a person who said he was battered with a blunt object during an argument. The injuries were minor, police say, and the case will require

further investigation before any charges can be developed.

Battery at Tower View Apartments Police responded to a residence at Tower View Apartments where a male and female, who live together and have a child together, became involved in an argument. The investigation revealed the male was the person who became physically aggressive. He was arrested for battery (domestic violence).

Window broken, TV gone According to reports, police responded to a burglary at Avenue C, where the complainant reported an unknown offender broke the rear window to her residence, entered, and removed a television. The offender ransacked the interior while inside the residence. All the doors were locked and only the broken window and one other window were unlocked. A neighborhood canvas was done with no information gained.

Page 10 Sun Newspapers

1000 REAL ESTATE

“We Are Pledged To The Letter And Spirit of U.S. Policy For The Achievement Of Equal Housing Opportunity Throughout The Nation. We Encourage And Support An Affirmative Advertising And Marketing Program In Which there Are No Barriers To Obtaining Housing Because of Race,

Color, Religion, Sec, Handicap, Familial Status Or National Origin.”

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

113 Fairway Drive, Lake Placid 2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Villa, has high gloss white raised panel kitchen cabinets, ceramic tile flooring in the living areas, carpet in the two bedrooms, walk in closets, Enclosed Florida room, Built in storage room, Double parking spaces, Needs a little TLC, Asking only $35,900.00 OBO!! Contact Michelle 863-5281136 or Keystone Realty Inc.863-635-0030 www.Keystone-RealEstate.NET.

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10 Plum Ave, Frostproof, Manufactured SFR, 3 bedroom 2 bath, corner lot Asking $74,900.00 Contact Wesley 863-528-8265 or Keystone Realty Inc. 863-635-0030 www.Keystone-RealEstate.NET

FROSTPROOF 3BR/2BA CB home, CORNER lot, 1 car garage, well for yard irrigation, shed, many shade trees!

ASKING $66,500 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N Scenic Hwy Frostproof 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF LAKE WALES

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116 S. Dixie Dr - Frostproof - Unique Property with lake access to Clinch lake, lake view and canal frontage. This stilt home has 2 bedrooms and 1 bath upstairs. Balcony has spectacular view overlooking lake and canal. Unfinished downstairs has laundry area and 1/2 bath. Would not take much to finish this area.

Security gate shared with All for only neighbor. $89,900.Melba Taylor, Broker/Realtor Frostproof Realty, LLC 863-635-4246 phone www.frostproofrealty.com 260 Walter Ave - Frostproof - Very nice 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath, central air and heat, Bonus room, Florida room, Utility building, single carport, furnished plus more. Asking $64,900. Melba Taylor, Broker/Realtor Frostproof Realty, LLC 863-6354246PH - www.frostproofrealty.com 314 Stanley Ave - Frostproof - Cozy 2 bedroom, 1

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

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bath concrete block home, Florida room, furnished, fence in back yard, single carport, 2 utility buildings. Asking only $45,000. Melba Taylor, Broker/Realtor Frostproof Realty, LLC 863635-4246PH - www.frostproofrealty.com

deep well, home has city water and sewer. Reduced to $125,000.

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rus trees. Asking $149,900.

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234 Thomas Ave - Frostproof - Very spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath home, Formal living & dining rooms, Screened in front porch, utility building plus much more.

Only $59,900. Melba Taylor, Broker/Realtor Frostproof Realty, LLC 863-6354246PH - www.frostproofrealty.com 328 Swingle Ave - Frostproof - 5 acre +/- property inside of city limits with home and grove. Home sits on approx .50 acre lot with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 3 bonus rooms and large Florida room, central air and heat, single carport and detached workshop. Grove consist of approx 4.5 acres mostly Valencia oranges. Grove has

SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 6:00p - 7:30p

CELEBRATION OF

JESUS A Corporate Worship Service of the “Business, Civic, and Ministry Coalition of Lake Wales”

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C o r p o r a t e W o r s h i p S e r v i c e

937 Harrell Ave - Frostproof - CASH OFFERS ONLY- 2 bedroom, 1 bath frame home with fenced in yard. home needs LOTS of TLC. Kitchen has been removed. "AS IS" Asking $15,000.

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Frostproof Realty LLC 863-635-4246ph www.frostproofrealty.com 310 Overocker Circle Frostproof - Very nice and well maintained home inside city limits of Frostproof with 3+/- acres approx 2.5 acres of property is in valencia oranges. Formal dining and living rooms, large family room, kitchen has been remodeled with new cabinets, has eating space in kitchen.

Home has 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. City water and septic tank has well for yard irrigation and to water the cit-

241 Thomas Ave - Frostproof 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Big Sun Ray subdivision. New appliances, new vanities, new toilets, fresh coat of paint inside. Split bedroom plan, central air and heat. Has Florida room on the front of the home, open patio on the rear and single garage. Asking $69,900.

Frostproof Realty, LLC 863-635-4246ph www.frostproofrealty.com 6 Harvartd Ave - Frostproof - Cozy home located in Little SunRay subdivision; right off Hwy 27. Has 2 bedrooms 1 bath, central air and heat, mostly furnished.

Asking $45,000. Frostproof Realty, LLC 863635-4246ph www.frostproofrealty.com 1821 Hwy 630 - Frostproof - Cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, on large lot out-

Sun Newspapers Page 11

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Carillon Classic 5K Run & Walk

PHOTO BY ROBERT BLANCHARD

Runners line up early Saturday morning to receive a timing chip as they prepare for the start of the 2015 Carillon Classic 5K Run & Walk at Bok Tower Gardens.

Runners dash from the starting line for the start of Saturday’s 2015 Carillon Classic 5K Run & Walk at Bok Tower Gardens.

These ladies can’t wait to run as noted by the writing on their shirts. The Dying to Run team is, from the left; Carrie Hutchinson, Darrell Acreman, Kelly McEvoy, Lisa Floyd and Valerie Bridegroom.

Approximately 500 runners and walkers participated in Saturday’s 2015 Carillon Classic 5K Run & Walk at Bok Tower Gardens.

The Polk County Fire Rescue Honor Guard present the Colors at Saturday’s 2015 Carillon Classic 5K Run & Walk at Bok Tower Gardens.

Participants move along walking paths through the gardens at Saturday’s 2015 Carillon Classic 5K Run & Walk at Bok Tower Gardens.

Mederican Warner sings the National Anthem to start Saturday’s 5k Run at Bok Tower.

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Page 12 Sun Newspapers

HOTEL FROM PAGE 1 Hardman admits “it is a slow run. The painting is the easy part. It is the last 5 or 10 percent. The whole time it is green is the other 90 percent of the work.”

And there is something to that green coating, he said.

The Friends recently heard that the green was sprayed onto the hotel in the summer of 1972.

It was the kind of spray that would not just be a paint, but if there were cracks in the wall, it adhered to the stucco surface.

“This is the coating that Ray has sandblasted

Wednesday, May 6, 2015 on the bottom floor,” Hardman notes.

Aware of those in the community who wonder why the painting is taking so long, Hardman says that with the green coating, all the detail was lost, from the windows to the urns, to doorknobs and edges of doors and door jams.

“The stuff was kind of indiscriminantly blown all over,” he said.

The window work is the most intricate.

Hardman said each window took more than a day to complete, and now is down to a few hours.

“That is the detail Ray is going through,” he said.

“It is a small crew. A lot of learning as you go,

SALARY FROM PAGE 1 If successful, the petition drive would limit the city manager’s salary to 85 percent of Florida’s governor’s paycheck.

City workers salaries would be limited to 75 percent of the governor’s annual wage.

Using today’s salaries, that would mean City Manager Ken Fields would earn $110,500 annually, a pay cut of almost $20,000. Other city workers would top out at $97,500. No city employee other than the city manager currently earns that amount or more “although some are on the line,”

SALE FROM PAGE 1 food for sale, everything is either grown or made by a student. Proceeds for the sale go toward helping students pay for field trips and re-investing the money back into the various business adventures.

There are four schoolbased businesses staffed by students, led by teachers and mentored by local business owners: Eaglets’ Tasty

a lot of processing,” he adds.

Part of the streamlining has been to decide, he said, that “we are not going to spend all day” on certain things.

“Here is what is right and here is what is efficient and here is what is practical,” he notes.

Tile has also been polished.

There are, he says, “lots of little processes in the big process.”

As far as finances, they have received calls from investors, but are not free to elaborate on that at the time.

Meanwhile, some look up and have fond memories of yesteryear.

De Ette Merphieslaw Lahr-Bees says that she and her husband were

according to Bowlin.

“The salary for the city manager is out of control,” Bowlin said. “Our governor makes $130,000 a year and he is over a state of 21 million people, yet (Lake Wale’s city manager) who is over only 15,000 people makes $148,000 a year. How is that justifiable? It’s ludicrous.”

Frostproof, population 3,000, pays its city manager $80,000 a year while Bartow, with 18,000 residents, pays its city manager $135,000 a year. Lakeland, population 100,000, pays its manager $206,000.

A city manager’s salary should be tied to one thing: his performance, said Fred Hilliard, Fort Meade’s city manager since 2007.

Confections, E Street Grille, GardensEtcetera, Outdoor Furniture Company and Roosevelt Farms.

These businesses all go into full gear each Friday for a few hours, a month before each sale when students get to take a break from normal studies and work toward paying for an end of year field trip. The students don’t just produce items for sale, however. There are other jobs to fill.

For example, eighth grade students must apply for a job as cashier.

FRISBIE FROM PAGE 1 trying to imagine Congress writing a no-loopholes amendment to remove the influence of money on the elective process.

More frightening still is a little-noticed initiative to convene a Constitutional Convention to rewrite this document that has been the fabric of American government since 1787.

Often cited in civics classes as the most ideal written constitution in modern times, it has been amended only 27 times in 227 years.

Of those 27 amendments, the first 10 — the Bill of Rights — didn’t change the Constitution; they clarified the rights of citizens. Of the 17 amendments that actually changed things, two — Prohibition and Repeal — cancelled each other out.

That leaves only 15 changes, ranging from momentous (civil rights, voting for minorities and women,

one of the last guests that stayed at the hotel before it was deemed unsafe.

“The night we stayed was our wedding night, July 29, 1988. A few months later, for a short time we helped a friend in the restaurant, where I worked as a bartender, and my husband as a waiter. Needless to say, it did not last too long and it closed. And the entire Hotel shut down soon after, I think,” she said.

“I do hope that they restore the hotel and see the potential that could bring to Lake Wales. The room that my husband and I stayed in had just been restored at the time. I don’t know if it’s in the same condition or not. But I do remember all that beautiful wood

“When you tie a city manager’s salary to something other than his performance you have a problem,” said Hilliard, who has worked in city government for 37 year. Noting that governors are often independently wealthy long before they assume the state’s highest office, Hilliard said “salary doesn’t mean anything to the governor. City managers are not independently wealthy.

This is not a profession where you become a rich man. This is a job you do because you want to help the community.”

Fields current contract expires in 2017 and even if passed by voters at next year’s election, the new law would not impact his current salary.

There is an actual application and job interview.

Each student is responsible for a 1.5 hour shift at work. JD Zayas said he applied for a job as cashier to work the event Thursday. He learned what to wear, what to say during the interview and how to fill out an application properly.

Brandon Calvo was a cashier at the Christmas Garden Sale last December.

“I sold a pot to my grandmother,” he said.

“It’s hanging from her porch still. She loves

imposition of a federal income tax) to inconsequential.

No other amendment is as pointless as the most recent one, which delays the effective date of Congressional pay raises until after the next election.

This one was proposed in 1789 and ratified in 1992, exactly 202 years, seven months, and 12 days after it was proposed.

It is frightening to imagine what would be included in, or removed from, a Constitution drawn by today’s politicians in an era when “political correctness” has overtaken common sense as the dominant theme in governance and power politics trumps the public interest.

How many of our basic rights and freedoms (like speech, religion, peaceful assembly, the press, the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, access to counsel, protection against self-incrimination, trial by jury) would survive with absolute wording that begins: “Congress shall make no law … “ Our government at every level is

throughout and moldings and marble,” she said, noting to “please remind people of the beauty inside not just the ugly they see on the outside.”

Do the lights give City Manager Ken Fields hope for the hotel’s future?

“They were given until September to come back with a progress report,” he said, by phone with The Lake Wales News, Thursday. During this interim period, he said, he did not want to comment.

“The paint on the outside is a good sign,” he added.

Economic Development Council director Kevin Kieft says there is potential for growth downtown if the

He cautions that many government officials — he cites Florida Supreme Court justices as one example — earn more than the governor.

“You are competing in a marketplace for people,” Fields said. “If you want to attract quality people you can’t artificially limit the salary.”

Would a salary limited to 85 percent of the governor’s take home pay prompt Fields to leave Lake Wales? “It would be a major consideration for me,” Fields said.

If the legal wrangles can be overcome, Bowlin is confident the petition will gain the necessary signatures - around 840 - required to make it onto next year’s ballot but also get

growing plants.” Unlike other items on sale Thursday, Calvo and dozens of other student employees with Outdoor Furniture Company sell outdoor furniture year round.

“Some kids have a real gift at making things,” Davis said. “And it’s fun.”

In the months leading up to the sales, Davis said students are on their best behavior and generally try to get better grades to qualify and get hired at one of the school businesses.

To even apply for a

the thumbs up from voters.

“The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. I have not had one person that thought it was a bad idea,” Bowlin said.

The petition comes only days after city commissioners rejected Bowlin’s nomination to the Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board, a decision that still rankles.

“I did hear a comment from someone that I was not qualified and I would like to know how,” said Bowlin, a former member of the city’s charter review committee who holds degrees in business administration, American government and public administration.

job, students must have good grades and exhibit good behavior. Eighth grade students all carry around a green card that teachers can use to grade weekly employability skills such as dress code, being on time, being prepared, following direction and showing initiative, among others.

On average, a few hundred people attend and each year raises around $2,000 between four separate events. The school also collects box tops for grant money. This year one student will be

imperfect in numerous ways; trusting that government to rewrite our Constitution is the worst conceivable way to improve it.

——— (S. L. Frisbie is retired. The only

hotel is developed.

“It’s a focal point,” he said. “It creates an environment of people wanting to experience downtown, creating other people wanting to invest in downtown. I use the retail analogy – you start building in an area, all the other retailers get involved. I think that is what is going to happen here, they are putting a lot of money and effort into recreating the hotel.”

Kieft said it is a “huge step in the right direction if the Friends of the Hotel can pull it off.

“We are hoping so much that they can make this happen because there’s no doubt, it will be a big change… a big positive change.”

going on her end of year field trip to Islands of Adventure for free for all the box tops she turned in. Most students can work toward as much as $20 off their ticket with transportation paid through sales proceeds.

Some of the skills taught at Roosevelt Academy are transferred into the marketplace.

“That’s the whole goal,” said Principal Debra Edwards. “Learning how to work with the public, employability skills and how to be ready for to work.”

amendment he supports is one that would require Congress to balance the federal budget. He believes that the national debt is America’s way of ensuring that future generations do not turn to ancestor worship.)

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 13

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Page 14 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Caring for others, bringing passion to the job Coordinator of Transitional Housing and Clinical services a blessing to the Care Center

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1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

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2 car garage has a work bench.

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860 Keen Rd. - Frostproof - Vacant Lakefront Lot - Great location in quiet neighborhood on Beautiful Little Crooked Lake. Not far from Hwy 27. 1+ acre. asking $65,000. Frostproof Realty, LLC 863-635-4246ph www.frostproofrealty.com Have several vacant lots in Big Sun Ray - Frostproof.

75x120+/-.

Prices range $6500. - $8500. call for more details. Frostproof LLC 863-635Realty, 4246ph www.frostproofrealty.com

By NORA NELSON News CorrespoNdeNt A positive outlook goes a long way.

And that is why the Lake Wales Care Center appreciates Michele Lescard, coordinator of Transitional Housing and Clinical services at the Care Center.

“Michele really cares about helping everyone, in every way she can,” says Gayleene Gilbreath. “You can tell that she really loves what she is doing.”

Says Gayleene Gilbreath, donor relations coordinator for the Care Center, “Her positive outlook, sense of humor, and great attitude make her a very enjoyable person to work with.”

Lescard does a great deal of reading, studying, and learning about different diagnoses that she may encounter in her work. She is currently working to earn her certification to become a licensed clinical social worker.

She describes her job as one that requires just as much planning as it does flexibility.

“It’s definitely a position that you have to be ready for anything to come up, and if you have a set schedule, it’s pretty much guaranteed that it’s not going to stay that way.” She juggles her case management hours, clinical appointments, and responsibilities related to her transitional housing subjects. “For this job, you need to be able to handle stress and a lot of different things coming at you at one time.”

She says that the clinical aspect of her job, specifically, is one that requires a lot of passion. Lescard appreciates that the social work field is so full of possibilities for those who are involved with it.

“The profession is a whole array of opportunities and different dynamics.” She is also the

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321 Raymond - Frostproof Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath concrete block home on large corner lot. New metal roof and 12x20+/- storage building.

Split bedroom plan, front Florida room, eat-in kitchen, patio off carport. Storage room off back of home, cover patio, well for yard irrigation. Home is loxcated right off Hwy 27 in neighborhood called SunRay Homes. Asking $67,500.

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PHOTO BY KATHY LEIGH BERKOWITZ

Michele Lescard of the Lake Wales Care Center.

Supervisor for the Meals on Wheels program. Meals on Wheels is an important program in the community because it reaches out to those who are unable to acquire food or cook for themselves.

“Anyone is eligible for the program,” she explains. Recipients of this program receive a once-a-day visit from a volunteer that they have built a relationship with.

“To be a coordinator for an agency such as the Lake Wales Care Center is a pretty honorable role to have for the community. You are taking on a responsibility for the community to offer the services.” Lescard says the Lake Wales Care Center is so heavily depended upon by the community, not only for people who are in need, but individuals looking to give back to the community. She very much enjoys everything that she does with the

Lake Wales Care Center, and she is happy to be a part of their team.

“If we don’t work on the same team and be there for each other, like we are, it won’t be successful or effecti … That’s an awesome thing to be a part of.”

Dennis Childress, director of resource management says Michele is very passionate, greatly appreciated by her coworkers not only for what she does for the Lake Wales Care Center, but for who she is as a person.

“When Michele isn’t busy making people’s lives better by reaching out through the Lake Wales Care Center, she is very involved with her church,” he says.

“She and her daughter enjoy engaging in many weekly activities with their church. She is very family oriented and enjoy outdoor pastimes like bike riding and visiting the beach.”

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158 Spurlock Rd - Frostproof - 2 bedroom, 2 bath single wide mobile home on approx 75X150 lot outside of city limits. Split bedroom plan, fenced in yard, utility building, large carport. Reduced to $35,000.

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2467 RE Byrd Rd, Frostproof, Blue Jordan Gated community, 3 bedroom 3 full baths, vaulted ceiling, brick faced fireplace, screen enclosed double porches, single car garage over 3 acres. Asking $155,000 OBO, Contact Michelle for more information 863-528-1136 Keystone Realty Inc. 863-635-0030 Www.Keystone-RealEstate.NET Like us on Facebook

262 Walter Ave -Frostproof - Home has 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bath, eat-in-kitchen, large living room, spacious front porch, bonus room on back of home with extra 8X7 storage room, single carport and 2 utility buildings, home sits on corner lot. Located right off Hwy 27 in the Sun Ray Homes neighborhood. There is a play park, club house and the HOA is optional. Asking $59,500.

Melba Taylor, Broker/Realtor Frostproof Realty, LLC 863-635-4246 phone www.frostproofrealty.com MOVIE IN CONDITION Well maintained 3 bed 2 bath home with large open floor plan.

Kitchen includes wood cabinets, granite counter tops, updated appliances, closet pantry and breakfast nook. Formal dining adjacent to kitchen, living room is very open and room for the whole family. Florida room is glassed enclosed with sliding doors into dining room, and the 2 h kb h

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SPACIOUS 4 BEDROOM HOme this nice 4 bedroom 3 bath has corian counter tops, breakfast bar, closet pantry, 2 dens and garden tub in master bath. This home features an inground screened pool with a child safety fence, a freshly painted interior, new carpet and vinyl. Listed for $214,900 ID #4700452 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

ROOM TO ROAM Two lots approx. 2 acres total. Land is partially fenced. 3 bedroom 2 bath block home. This home comes with bonus room, all appliances, shed, screened porch, and a large 1,926 square foot outbuilding/garage. Much potential!

ID Listed for $64,900 #233957 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

SPACIOUS HOME ON 1 ACRE 3 Bedroom 2 bath home has a galley kitchen with all appliances and an island, cathedral ceilings, dual sinks and garden tub in the master bath, a freshly painted interior, new carpet, family room, screened porch with ceramic tile floor, open patio, shed, large fenced bach yard, and 2 car garage. Listed for $94,900 ID #4700416 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

UPDATES GALORE! 3 Bedroom 1 bath block home with a recently remodeled bath and galley kitchen including appliances. Newer roof along with central a/c unit, fenced back yard with 2 storage buildings.

Just listed for $54,900 ID #4700413 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

SPACIOUS CONTEMPORARY HOME 4 Bedroom 3 bath with breakfast bar, new stainless steel appliances, garden spa tub in master bath, family room, and laundry room. This home features tray ceilings, crown moldarched doorways, ing, decorative columns, new carpet, freshly painted interior, screened porch, and 2 car garage. For $199,000 ID #4700403 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

2004 CONTEMPORARY HOME 3 bedroom 2 bath home with a fireplace in the Family room, cathedral ceilings, new range and hood, freshly painted interior, ceramic tile floors throughout, open patio, fenced back yard, and 2 car garage.

Listed for $99,900 ID #4700398 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

GREAT LOCATION 3 bedroom 2 bath block home with a 2 car garage just minutes from 98 and I-4. Split bedroom floor plan with a spacious eat in kitchen.

Vaulted ceilings give this home an open feel. Master features 2 walk in closets along with his and her sinks. Listed for $118,400 ID #4700386 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE 863-676-7040 INC.

LARGE HOME ON ALMOST 5 ACRES Spacious 4 bedroom 4 bath home with ample kitchen cabinet space, eat-in space, and new range. This home features spa tubs in the master bath and 4th bathroom, a laundry room with shelves and a 2nd washer/dryer hook up area, new carpet, new well pump, new a/c, freshly painted interior, and walk-in closets. The property is fenced and it has a stable. Redued to $199,900 ID #233327 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

NICE CONTEMPORARY HOME 4 Bedroom 2 bath Contemporary home with all new stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar, new carpet in Florida room, freshly painted interior, and a covered patio. Reduced to $74,000 ID #4700330 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

COZY BLOCK HOME located on a shaded corner lot. 3 Bedroom 1 bath with a bonus room that could be additional living space or even a 4th bedroom.

Reduced to $48,906 ID #4700329 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

LARGE BLOCK HOME 3 bedroom 2 bath home in gated community. This home features a breakfast bar, nook, closet pantry, cathedral ceilings, a large 21 X 21 Florida room, and a den with French doors off the living room. The master bath has dual sinks, garden tub and a separate shower. This home has been freshly painted and includes new appliances. The large screened porch leads to a workshop and a fenced back yard. Reduced to $184,900 ID #4700285 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

INVESTOR SPECIAL 2 Bedroom 1 bath with a fenced yard.

Home has a newer roof and loads of potential. Conveniently located just blocks from historic downtown Lake Wales near schools, and shopping. Priced to sell and won’t last long. $22,800 ID Reduced! #4700272 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

BLOCK HOME WITH FIREPLACE Spacious 3 bedroom 2.5 bath with 4th bedroom or inlaw potential. Block home with central ac. Open living/dining floor plan along with bonus room and an eating space in kitchen. Home has had some upgrades, Listed for $51,443 ID #4700257 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

GATED COMMUNITY Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath home with formal dining and family room along with a bonus room that could easily be used as a 4th bedroom or an office. Master bedroom has a large walk in closet and private master bath with garden tub, separate shower, double sinks and water closet. Inside utility room off of the 2 car attached garage.

Listed for $122,175 ID #4700216 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040

Sun Newspapers Page 15

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

The hurt left behind

Forum addresses children raised in fatherless homes

By JEFF ROSLOW jroslow@ heartlandnewspapers.com

Kenneth Stephens was raised without his biological father. Despite that, he has led a successful life. Still, the pain of not having his father in his life has had a profound effect upon his life.

His goal is to stop this from happening to others.

“The Absent Fathers: From M.I.A. To A.I.M” was his attempt. In it was a panel of men to talk about it and it drew an audience of nearly 100 people at Southeastern University Saturday.

(M.I.A. is missing, invisible, absent. A.I.M. is active, involved, making a difference.)

“How can they do that?” Stephens, a professor at Southeastern University and chairman of the Online/Evening Human Services Program asked. He asked it two more times. There was no answer. “Can someone please tell me how … how can they do that?”

There were no answers, but what did come from Stephens first foray into the subject is that boys raised without fathers should not think it is their fault.

Aside from the forum, Stephens is taking his pledge a step farther. He is seeking Polk County men to take it a step farther. By this year’s Father’s Day, June 21, he wants 4,000 men to sign a pledge that they will be available in their children’s lives, as well as be involved and make a difference in that child’s life.

“I want to change the trend,” he said. “I want 4,000 fathers to take aim and make a promise.”

He emphasized while this is important for himself and the children, it can also help him apply for grants that would start support groups.

The trend People may ask what is the trend. As he pointed out in the forum, the most recent Pew Research statistics the number of absent fathers in the last 40 years has risen by nearly 15 percent. The number of absent fathers for children between the first grade and 12th is 39 percent, he said. While that seems high, the pain is often unnoticed and there are many who don’t know what effect it could have, he said.

Stephens also pointed out that children raised

Brian Lafferty talks about not allowing growing up without a father should hold you back from your dreams. Listening is fellow panel member Jarrett Williams.

PHOTOS BY JEFF ROSLOW

Forum organizer Dr. Kenneth Stephens talks Monday at the Absent Fathers: M.I.A. to A.I.M. event at Southeastern University. Behind him is the panel. From left is Ken Riley, retired Judge Robert Doyel, Jarrett Williams and Brian Lafferty. Also on the panel was Pastor Lanelle Pickett who was sitting to the left of Riley. without fathers are four time more likely to be poor. Those affected the most include 57.6 percent black children who are raised in fatherless homes, Hispanics were at 31.2 percent, with whites at 20.7 percent. He said he read in an article that it is improving. It said the percentage of fathers who spend one day a month with his child has risen significantly. He disputed that finding.

“Ask anyone’s mother if one day a month is an improvement,” he said.

“Not many people know this,” said panelist and retire judge, Robert Doyel, who has recently has had a book published, “The Baby Mama Syndrome.” Doyel heard thousands of custody and marriage cases in his career, but also spoke first-hand about the impact an absent father has. “(But) I never saw my father until I was 25 years old. I found out he was alive.”

The reunion was not a nice one and left him with never wanting to see him again, which he didn’t. He went back to his life. He said he felt someone could fill the gap, fill the holes of someone being a constant for him … someone to encourage him.

As had Doyel, the four other panelists explained confusion and wondered what they did to not have a father present.

“It was tough to go to school and hear others kids say, ‘My dad saw me do this,’” said Jarrett Williams.

He remembers his reunion with his father

was over the phone. He was 14,” he said. “Just to was in college, sleeping, finish high school.” when his phone rang. His But afterward he got godmother told him his into what he called a bad father was there and he’d crowd. He spent 20 years like to talk to him. At 24 in prison. Now, however, years old, he hadn’t seen he is about to get his his father for 14 years. bachelor’s degree and “He talked to me like he has a full time job at I was still 10,” Williams Coca Cola. said. “I cried for three “But I still have that days. I blocked him out empty feeling,” he said. of my life.”

Stephens pointed While Doyel and out the message has to Williams found some work the other way, too. their fathers, or were Fathers who are present contacted by them, have to realize what they those attending learned mean to their sons, and last Saturday that it isn’t also daughters. His life easy to always to find drew him to that. someone.

Stephens’ son is 27 That was what and he always did well in Chandra Rolling said. school. He currently has She never his own law saw her firm. father and “One day we was raised 4,000 signatures by Father’s were walking Day, June 21 that they will be by her in his school available in their child’s life, will and there were mother be involved in my child’s life and pictures on and stepfather. The make a difference in their child’s the wall of the stepfather life. Sign on at kstephen49. role models of wordpress.com. rejected the children,” her and he he said. He mistreated and rejected grew anxious as they her mother. Her mother, approached his son’s likewise, was abusive to choice: Ray Lewis. At her. the time, Lewis was “She expected me to a Baltimore Ravens pay her back for what standout in the NFL and she did for me,” Rolling graduate of Kathleen said. She said sometimes High School. “My heart she cried for the fact that just sank.” she never had a mother Stephens asked his or a father. “I can’t agree son’s friend, who was that there’s someone with him, who he picked. there.

The friend had picked his “I never got it,” she father. said. “But I am strong “What am I doing to because of God. I need have a son pick another love, though, because I man?” Stephens said can’t do it alone.” he asked himself. The anBrian Lafferty was swer was Stephens own raised by his mother and career ambition. “I was an abusive stepfather too busy making a living since he was 8. It ultito make a life. mately had a tremendous “I had to re-examine negative effect. myself. I had to ask “I moved out when I myself what is more

A.I.M. PROMISE

Jarrett Williams talks Saturday at Southeastern College during the Absent Fathers: M.I.A. to A.I.M. event. He was one fo the panelists. Behind him are some of the others. Pastor Lanelle Picket is hidden by the podium, next to him is Ken Riley and retired Judge Robert Doyel. important,” he said.

“I never said anything to my son. I changed myself.”

Sam Jones, a participant, related that situation is easy to fall into.

“Sometimes you get caught up in the ministry and you lose what the ministry is about,” Jones said. “We take care of the masses that we forget about what is most important in life. If you can be great in the house, you can be successful in life.”

Panelists and others from the audience relayed there is a difference between providing financially for their children and being there for the children.

The law says child support and working out the time to spend with a child in divorce cases are disconnected. That, he said, is something that has to be worked out by the parents.

The responsibility Some of the blame of fathers being absent was put into the idea that the man never wanted to be a father or didn’t think he could handle being a father. The point made, though, is regardless of those feelings, the child left behind is the one who is hurt and confused.

“His excuse was he was going through a rough time,” Williams said. “I was, too.”

Soon after his father left, his aunt died. His mother had died and he was raised by his grandmother. He found some comfort and direction and has so far has succeeded as he is studying his way to a degree.

Perhaps reflecting on his teen and years in his 20s, as well as his experience, Doyel pointed out that many men don’t want babies.

They just want to have sex. He also said he has seen that men get jealous of their children because they draw more attention from the mother.

In the end, Stephens felt the forum didn’t bash fathers, but built bridges. Although the panel that consisted of Doyel, Williams, Lafferty, Pastor Lanelle Pickett and Ken Riley, all had absent fathers, they were also examples of people who moved beyond the fact each one’s father was not for them when they needed him most.

“I’m proof that anyone can make it work without that person. But, you need someone (to fill in for him),” Williams said.

Doyel pointed out, regardless whether a man chooses to be a father ,once you realize you are to be one, there should be no escaping the responsibility.

“It’s more than becoming a father and doing what they ought to be doing,” Doyel said.

“You’ve got to be a father from the very beginning.”

Page 16 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

OBITUARIES Wanda Jane Ellis

Wanda Jane Ellis, 76 of Frostproof, Fla., passed away Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at Somers Hospice House in Sebring. Marion Nelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

James C. Fulmer James C. Fulmer of Lake Wales, Fla., passed away Monday, May 4, 2015 at his residence. He was 75.

Arrangements are by Johnson-NelsonGill Funeral Home in Lake Wales.

Patricia Marie Hain Patricia Marie Hain, 78, of Lake Wales, Fla., passed away, Monday, April 27, 2015 at Somers’ Hospice House in Sebring. Marion Nelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Robert Chet Vogel Robert Chet Vogel, 61 of Babson Park, Fla., passed away Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at his residence. Marion Nelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

James Albert Welch

Mrs. Lori Lancaster Young, 41, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2015.

Lori was born July 2, 1973, in Winter Haven, Fla., and was a longtime resident of Bartow before recently moving to Fort Meade.

Lori Lancaster Young She loved working outdoors with plants and spending time with her children. Lori was a homemaker and of the Pentecostal faith.

She is survived by her husband, Jeffery A. Young, Fort Meade; sons, Harvey Christopher Morris, Jr. and Brandon Eugene Morris, both of Lake Wales, and Damion Allen Brown, Bartow; parents, Douglas and Margaret Brown of Bartow, and Curtis L. Lancaster, Sr., of Alturas; brothers, Curtis Lamar Lancaster, Jr., Bartow, and Keith Lancaster, of Clarkson, Ky.; twin sister, Lisa Lindsey, Millwood, Ky., and loving pet, Cody.

Visitation is 10 a.m. Friday, May 1, 2015 at Hancock Funeral Home, 945 E. Broadway, Fort Meade.

Funeral service is 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Kenny Slay officiating.

Interment will be in Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Fort Meade.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hancockfh.com.

Hancock Funeral Home, Fort Meade, is in charge of arrangements.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY LOTH

The Lake of the Hills Garden Club went to visit Roosevelt Farms recently and were introduced to the school’s hydroponic gardening.

LOTH visits Roosevelt Farms

By RAY CRUZE

Special To The lake WaleS NeWS Members of the Lake of the Hills Garden Club recently toured Roosevelt Academy’s agriculture program. The guests learned about the hydroponic growing methods used to grow produce, including coir grow-bags and vertical stackers.

They were also able to view the newest addition to the school’s program, a 7,500 gallon aquaponic

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James Albert Welch of Babson Park, Fla. passed away Monday, May 4, 2015 at his residence. He was 88.

Arrangements are by Johnson-NelsonGill Funeral Home in Lake Wales.

Lori Lancaster Young

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system that will be used to produce leafy greens like kale, mustard and lettuce. The student-run business, called Roosevelt Farms, currently has a daily harvest of grape tomatoes and peppers and they are available to the public every day at the Lake Wales Care Center Thrift Store.

Next school year marks the 20th year the student run business has been producing flowers, herbs and produce.

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 17

Page 18 Sun Newspapers

7040

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TWO STORY CORNER LOT HOME Main home offers 2 bedroom and 2 bath downstairs, a spacious eat in kitchen, with an open formal dining and living room. 3rd bedroom and loft up stairs offer a great view of below. There’s a cozy screened front porch, a large open sun deck in the back, and detached in-law apartment with full kitchen and bath that is being sold furnished. Perfect for family or a rental. Additional out building could serve as a workshop. Reduced to $94,900 ID #4700287 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

BEAUTIFUL LAKEFRONT PROPERTY Spacious living area, FP in Living Rm., split bedroom plan, Screened Porch across back of home. Sliding Doors from Dining Room to porch plus from Master Bed. Recessed hot tub (As-"Is") sliding doors to access. Oversized 2 car garage plus exterior storage shed. Private open porch entry to front of home. Private Dock and Boat Ramp, listed for $229,000 ID #4587880 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE 863-676-7040 INC. www.primeplusrealestate.com

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3 INCOME PRODUCING HOMES all located on 1.36 acres. The first unit is a newly remodeled single family home with 3 bedroom and 2 full bath.

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The 2nd unit is a 3 bedroom 2 bath doublewide manufactured home. The 3rd unit is a 2 bedroom 2 bath singlewide manufactured home. There is one common well that provides for all units and each home has its own septic. Listed for $165,000 ID #4700226 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE 863-676-7040 INC.

needed to allow your business to continue to grow. There are two private parking spaces in the alley, along with street parking for your customers. Current open floor plan will allow so many options, owner motivated.

Listed for $69,900 ID #4588141 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040

pump house located on site. Irrigation is currently installed to make watering all of the beautifully plants and palm trees a breeze. Its been said before, but this truly is a must see property!

ID Listed for $79,900 #4700421 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040

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acre Corner lot! Approx. 30' of canal frontage. Great location to build your new home. Convenient --nearby schools, 2 colleges, shopping and more.

Cleared and ready to build, listed for $14,500 ID #4700181 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676www.primeplus7040 realestate.com

INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY 3 bed 2 bath home 2 car garage with a 1bed 1bath attached apartment with a 4 stall storage building with 1 stall rented. And an additional storage building just over an acre all fenced zoned commercial.

Listed for $250,000 ID #4700212 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040

VACANT LAND

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HWY 60 FRONTAGE Almost 5 fenced acres of prime commercial real estate with impressive frontage on State Road 60.

There are a total of 6 block buildings that could be fixed up for office spaces along with a 7th single family home that has had some upgrades completed.

There is a single wide manufactured home that is set up with 9 offices and an open plan warehouse. Don’t miss out on this opportunity. Listed for $199,900 ID #4700169 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

COMMERCIAL BUILDING Located in historic downtown Lake Wales. This space could provide you with the exposure

INDIAN LAKE LOTS Multiple lots available in a waterfront, golf course, gated community.

Zoned for single family use. Approximately an hour drive from Orlando, Tampa adn the East Coast. Priced to Sell!! Do not miss the opportunity to own a piece of prime real estate in Central Florida. Owner motivated! Listed for $2,500 each PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE 863-676-7040 INC. www.primeplusrealestate.com

GREAT LAKE VIEWS! Build your home or place a Manufactured home. 2 parcels which total approx. 2.5 acres. Parcels are wooded. Survey, Seller Disclosure, and Restrictions available. Lake View and public lake access. Listed for $25,000 ID #4700450 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

WATERFRONT LOT! Spectacular views of Lake Lee from this beautifully landscaped property.

Almost 5 acres partially fenced that is waterfront. Electric and well with pump along with a pump house located on site. Ir-

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BEAUTIFUL ACREAGE! Located in north Florida. This property is just waiting for you to buld the home of your dreams.

With almost 4 acres you will have plenty of space with added privacy. And when you are finally ready to get out and about you will be able to check out local springs along with the Ocala Forest. Listed for $12,000 ID #4700445 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-6767040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

BUILDABLE LOT Beautiful wooded lot ready for you to build your dream home, located on a cul-de-sac. Listed for $5,500 ID #4700399 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

BUILDABLE CORNER LOT located in a waterfront, golf course gated community. Zoned for single family use, and located on a paved road. Don’t miss out on this opportunity.

This property is priced to sell and won’t last long! We have several other lots to choose from in this price range. Listed for $3,000 ID #4700323 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 i

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

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TIGER LAKE BUILDABLE LOT 4 total lots 3 of which are adjoining . Each lot is approx. one acre (.92) Great Location to build your future home. Rural area, quiet and peaceful. Additional lot directly across street from three adjoining lots. Listed $13,500 each ID for #4700238 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

LAKE ROSALIE LOT Super location to build your future home.

4.44 Acres, 25' road entrance to enter property, flag lot. Perfect for privacy and great quiet location.

Irregular serene shaped. Buyer is advised to obtain a survey for exact corners and dimensions of property.

Sign is in approximate location.

Parcel is subject to easement west border of property. Lake Rosalie is nearby with public access and boat ramp. Listed for ID #4700240 $25,000 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE 863-676-7040 INC. www.primeplusrealestate.com

LAKE CALOOSA BUILDABLE LOT Beautiful lot ready and waiting for you to build the home of your dreams. Location will give you the feeling of being out in the country, but you are only a turn away from Hwy 27. Owner is motivated and will consider all offers. Listed for $9,900 ID #4588069 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040

WATERFRONT COMMUNITY Multiple lots zoned for single families in a golf course & gated community. Half acre and larger listed at $3,000 per lot. ID #4700093 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

6 PLUS ACRES WITH POND Great place to build your new home! 6+ acres with pond ( part of pond is on adjacent parcel.) A few deed restrictions, gated and rolling ridge to build. Well and Septic required. Buyer responsible to obtain survey, elevation certificate. Buyer is advised to verify easements, etc. with county. Listed for $35,000 ID #4700084 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

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WATERFRONT PROPERTY Beautifully cleared property just under 1/2 of an acre. Located on Lake Venus in Waverly, FL just minutes from Hwy 27.

Zoned for single family use.

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READY TO BUILD Almost 1/2 C l t! A 30' f

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Sun Newspapers Page 19

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Book seats for Chamber’s Citizen of the Year Celebration The Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Council will host its “Century of Community” Citizen of the Year Celebration & Community Awards Dinner Friday, May 15 at the Lake Wales Country Club. Reservations for this ‘black tie optional’ event are requested no later than Friday, May 8th, by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 676-3445.

The cost is $60 per person or $500 to sponsor a table for eight.

National Day of Prayer There will be a National Day of Prayer event will be held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on May 7, at the City Municipal Building, 201 W. Central Avenue, Lake Wales.

The Business, Civic and Ministry Coalition is sponsoring the event.

“Lord, hear our cry,” 1 Kings 8:28, is the theme scripture.

American Legion hosts luncheon for Mothers On Saturday, May 9, from 1 to 3 p.m., American Legion Post 71 Honor Guard will be hosting a luncheon honoring mothers. For $10, there will be lunch, music, prizes and fun.

The Legion is located at 43 W. Park Ave. in Lake Wales. For more information, call (863) 589-5689.

Caregiver’s Day Out at Bok Tower Gardens May 13 Bok Tower Gardens and the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association are set to host the fifth annual “Caregiver’s Day Out” at Bok Tower Gardens. This free event focusing on family caregivers is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 at Bok Tower Gardens.

Bok Tower Gardens and the Alzheimer’s Association collaborate to bring a relaxing and a nature getaway for persons and families living with Alzheimer’s disease or other related disorders. Some offerings during the Alzheimer’s Association “Caregiver’s Day Out” include: two scheduled guided tours of the beautiful gardens

(10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.), scheduled recorded carillon concerts (1 and 3 p.m.) and Lunch & Learn: Container Gardening Basics (noon–1 p.m.).

Attendees bring their own lunch or can purchase one from the Blue Palmetto Cafe.

The Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver’s Day Out at Bok Tower Gardens is designed to allow attendees to plan the day to fit their schedule.

Visit boktowergardens.org to view all happenings.

No reservations required. At the gate, family caregiver’s mention they are with the Alzheimer’s Association “Caregiver’s Day Out.” Respite available for caregivers in need with RSVP required prior to event.

Call: 863-676-1408

400 set for degrees at Florida Southern An executive in the cable television history will be the speaker at Florida Southern College’s commencement on Saturday as Abbe Raven, chairman emeritus of A+E Networks, will deliver the graduation address at the May 2 ceremony, culminating three days of activities that will conclude the 2015 academic year at FSC. The convocation is scheduled at 1:30 p.m. at The Lakeland Center.

The College will confer degrees on 400 students, including 374 undergraduates. In recognition of Raven’s stellar career achievements, the College will confer upon her the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

Tourism Caravan rolling into Polk next week Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing will celebrate National Tourism Week May 4-8, with a “Tourism Caravan.” The first full week of May is recognized annually as National Travel and Tourism Week. PCTSM staff will caravan across Polk County, delivering tokens of appreciation to tourism industry partners including hotels, attractions, restaurants, shops, Chambers of Commerce and more; to recognize and thank the front-line and behind the scenes travel industry personnel who interact with visitors on a daily basis.

Red is the signature color for National Tourism Week and the theme for this year’s celebration is “We Are Tourism” so staff will also hand out #WeAreTourism red pens and T-shirts to employees and visitors during the caravan visits.

PCTSM invites Polk County businesses to help celebrate National Tourism Week by wearing red and posting a “Thank You” message on their venue’s marquee similar to this: “It’s National Tourism Week. Thanks for Traveling!”

Tourism is the top industry in Polk County, employing more than 20,000 people and contributing more than $1.5 billion in economic impact in 2014, which helps enhance the quality of life for the citizens and businesses of Polk County.

Research by VISIT FLORIDA — the tourism marketing corporation for Florida — indicates more than 97 million visitors came to Florida in 2014, for a fourth consecutive year of record visitation, exceeding the previous high of 93.7 million in 2013. The number of direct travel-related jobs in 2014 was also a record high, with more than 1.1 million Floridians employed in the tourism industry.

For information about PCTSM’s National Tourism Week Caravans, contact Kelly Rote at 863-551-4750 or Kelly@ VisitCentralFlorida.org.

each of the partners to designate a day of the week they would like to sponsor, as well as a platform for which they become the major sponsor.

As part of its sponsorship, Southeastern will collaborate with the Museum on programming and

educational projects, and Southeastern students will take some visual arts classes at the Museum while a new facility is being built on the SEU campus. Southeastern is underwriting the cost of admission on Tuesdays.

“The Polk Museum of Art is recognized as a leader in providing a

breadth of arts-related experiences to the citizens of Polk County,” said Brian Carroll, SEU’s executive vice president.

“Likewise, Southeastern University has positioned itself to be a premier destination for students seeking a quality education.”

Call: 863-688-7743.

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Compiled by Kathy Leigh Berkowitz klberkowitz@heartlandnewspapers.com

The Business, Civic and Ministry Coalition of Lake Wales Presents:

!!1!Kings!8:28!

Polk Museum entry is now free Polk Museum of Art, 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland, will no longer charge admission as two new institutional partners provided that everyone will be able to get in free.

“We stand among the many institutions, large and small, finding ways to remove barriers to access,” said Claire Orologas, executive director of Polk Museum of Art. “As a Smithsonian Affiliate museum, we are proud to follow their example of providing a rich cultural experience to everyone.”

Southeastern University and a friend of the community who wishes to remain anonymous have both signed three-year agreements under the relatively new corporate partnership program. Rolled out in 2013, the program allows

Prayer Service at the Lake Wales City Hall Pray with us from 12:00p - 1:00p

Page 20 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

EVENTS

CALENDAR

WELCOME TO YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Want to see your event on this page? Call us at 863-676-3467 or email news@lakewalesnews.com.

and

Italian buffet with music, 5-7 p.m., Lake Wales American Legion Memorial Post 71, 43 W. Park Ave. Call: 863-589-5689.

DivorceCare for the separated or divorced meets every Wednesday from 6:00-8:00 pm at First Baptist Church of Lake Wales, Room 312-D, 338 E Central Avenue, Lake Wales, Fl. Phone 863-676-3436 No charge for class or workbook.

THURSDAY, MAY 7 Lake Wales Breakfast Rotary, 7 a.m., weekly hour-long meeting, Bok Tower Gardens Blue Palmetto Cafe. Free breakfast for first timers.

Unity in Community Meeting at B Street Center 8 - 9 a.m.

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28th Annual Polk County Peace Officers’ Memorial Service, 10 a.m. Held during National Police Week. Fraternal Order of Police Polk County Lodge #46 and the Polk County Law Enforcement Memorial Fund sponsor event. Luncheon follows

event. Polk County Law Enforcement Memorial, Lakeland Veterans Park, Lime Street between Lake Beulah Drive and the west side of the Lakeland Center.

FRIDAY, MAY 8 MAY 15 - RSVP BY MAY 8 Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Council will host its “Century of Community” Citizen of the Year Celebration & Community Awards Dinner Friday, May 15 at the Lake Wales Country Club. Reservations for this ‘black tie optional’ event are requested no later than Friday, May 8th, by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 676-3445. The cost is $60 per person or $500 to sponsor a table for eight.

Free admission to Bok Tower Gardens with coupon on National Public Gardens Day, 9-5.

Info: 863-676-1408.

“Body and Soul” Jazz Exhibit closes, Polk State Lake Wales Arts Center.

Free. Info: 863-676-8426 or www.lakewalesartscouncil.org.

FREE BREAKFAST There is a free breakfast at B Street Community Center, on the first and third Saturday of every month, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. For more information, or to make donations, contact the Rev. Alton Norwood at 863-618-7641 or stop by his address at 114 W. Crystal Ave., Lake Wales.

The Rev. Norwood has been doing free breakfasts for the community since 2005. Visit his website at http://sites.google.com/site/cbmoinclakewalesfl/ for details.

Lake Wales Ghost Tours, 8 p.m., Arcade Coffee and Sandwich Shoppe on Market St. Also, Saturday. Info: www.facebook.com/ lakewalesghosttoursllc.

SATURDAY, MAY 9 Lake Wales Downtown Farmer’s Market, 9-1 p.m., second and fourth Saturday. Info: 863-455-4219.

New Hope UAFWBC, 3900 Washington Ave. The Youth Department invites all of New Hope ladies to come out and have your car washed.

Refreshments will be served as you wait.

Sandy Ridge Music Fest, 4-9 p.m., on the campus of Webber International University, shores of Crooked Lake, Babson Park.

Wales Memorial Post 71, 43 W. Park Ave. Call: 863-589-5689.

MidFlorida Mayfaire by-the-Lake art festival 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Mayfaire Saturday Night/Festival of Arts & Athletes, 5-11 p.m., 7 p.m. Annual Mayfaire Classic 5K Road Race & Walk. Free.

Info: 863-688-7743 or www.polkmuseumofart.org/events/ mayfaire-by-the-lake.

Mothers Day, 9-5, Bok Tower Gardens.

Free for moms. Info: 863-676-1408.

MONDAY, MAY 11

Main Street Bartow Antique Fair 8-2 p.m..

Info: 863-646-0644.

MidFlorida Mayfaire by-the-Lake art festival 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Mayfaire Saturday Night/Festival of Arts & Athletes, 5-11 p.m., 7 p.m. Annual Mayfaire Classic 5K Road Race & Walk. Free.

Info: 863-688-7743 or www.polkmuseumofart.org/events/ mayfaire-by-the-lake.

Yoga, Lake Wales Library, 290 Cypress Garden Lane. Monday and Wednesday, 5:30 to 6:45 pm in the Lake Wales Public Library’s Meeting Room. Wear loose-fitting clothing and bring water if desired. No prior experience is needed. Class fees are $10 per class, $32 for 4 classes or $60 for 8 classes of instruction.

SUNDAY, MAY 10

TUESDAY, MAY 12

Mothers’ Day Car Wash, 8 a.m. - noon,

Bingo, 1-3:30 p.m., American Legion Lake

Bowling, 6 p.m., Lake Wales American Legion

Rodeo, 7:30 p.m., Westgate Resort River Ranch. Call: 863-692-1321 Chess for Kids, Lake Wales Library, 290 Cypress Garden Lane.

Noon to 3 p.m.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 6

Memorial Post 71. Call: 863-589-5689.

Professional Development, 9 a.m.-noon. Free but reservations needed for a chance to speak with experts on preparing yourself to get a job.

Discussions will cover professional dress for interviews, sharpening interview skills, resume review and mock interviews. RSVP by May 7.

Refreshments provided.

Church Service Center, 495 E. Summerlin St. Bartow. 863-533-5822.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 Wednesday, noon-2 p.m.; Saturday: 10-2 p.m., Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor Center, Lake Wales. Workshops and events. Free. Call: 863-676-1411.

Bok Tower Gardens and the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association host Caregiver’s Day Out at Bok Tower Gardens.

This free event focusing on family caregivers is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 13 at

CALENDAR | 21

Sun Newspapers Page 21

Wednesday, May 6, 2015 1020 HOUSES FOR SALE VACANT RESIDENTIAL LOT with building potential. Completely cleared with access to city water and sewer. located just minutes from historic downtown Lake Wales. Listed for $8,000 ID #4588155 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040

www.primeplusrealestate.com

BUILDABLE LOT 2 Cleared acres located near Babson Park, just minutes from boat ramp to Crooked Lake, ready and waiting for you to build the home of your dreams. County will allow a manufactured home or a single family home. Property has a 448 sq. ft. building onsite. Listed for $90,000 ID #4587953 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

FROM PAGE 20

3+ Acre Corner Lot with 1997 Manufactured Doublewide Home, 3BR/2BA, “move-incondition,” open living/dining area, nice kitchen, Covered 12x60 country porch and 16x6 open patio Plus pond and Outbuildings! ASKING $138,000 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy

Frostproof Fl 863-6322062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

331 W "F" St - Frostproof -3 bedroom 2 bath home with additional 1/1 apartment with separate entrance in a very desirable, quiet neighborhood, just steps from Clinch Lake.

Center hall plan with new wood flooring in front entrance, dining room and family room. Fireplace in family room with sliding doors to screened-in porch and large fenced backyard.

Master bedroom has ensuite bathroom and two closets (one walk-in). .Conveniently located in the city limits of Frostproof.

Asking $124,500. - Frostproof Realty LLC ph 863-635-4246 www.frostproofrealty.com

www.primeplusrealestate.com

RESIDENTIAL LOT Residential building lot zoned for single family home use. Located in Babson Park just minutes from boat ramp to Crooked Lake. Listed at $6,000 ID #4587934 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

WATERFRONT LOT An amazing opportunity to own one of the last few waterfront lots on crooked lake. This breath taking piece of property is mostly cleared with large beautiful oak trees, ready and waiting for you to build the home of your dreams. Listed for $150,000 ID #4587941 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. 863-676-7040 www.primeplusrealestate.com

HOME SITE, Nice half Acre lot located in Beautiful Area of Homes. Growing Region Centrally Located between Winter Haven and Lake Wales. Partially Cleared and ready to Build your First Home. Listed for ID #4587717 $19,900 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC. (863) 676-7040

3.38 ACRES and 2 bedroom 1 bath home! Located in Blue Jordan Forest, this home is “move in” ready, tile flooring, nice size Kitchen, great view of the wooded lot, completely fenced, nice walking trails throughout & Shed! ASKING $99,900 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy

Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

319 N Scenic Hwy, 3 bedroom 2 bath, two story home with charm. Open covered front porch, high ceilings downstairs, large master bedroom downstairs, remodeled kitchen, main bathroom, upstairs has two guest bedrooms, sitting area, small kitchenette and bathroom, detached storage/garage, fenced in back yard, alley access. Price Reduced $79,850 VERY MOTIVATED SELLER !!!!!

Contact Cindy Wise 863-5280366 or Keystone Realty Inc 863-635-0030 www.KeystoneRealEstate.NET.

www.primeplusrealestate.com

WOODED HOME SITE! 2 Acres of Beautiful Woods in deed restricted community to build your new home! Not too far from Public Boat Ramp into Lake Rosalie.

Owner Motivated and will look at all Reasonable Offers! $39,900 ID #4586073 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE INC (863) 676-7040. www.primeplusrealestate.com

UNIQUE WOODED PROPERTY partially cleared to build your home. Single Family use only in Gated Community. Over 5 Acres overlooks marsh on the south side of Lake Rosalie. Public Access to Lake Rosalie within a short drive. Deed restrictions and Very Private Location. Great natural surroundings and Peaceful! $39,900. ID #4588140 PRIME PLUS REAL ESTATE, INC. 863-676-7040

CALENDAR

Find it in the Classifieds!

321 Raymond ave - Frostproof - Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath concrete block home on large corner lot. New metal roof and 12X20+/- storage building. Split bedroom plan, front Florida room, Eat-inkitchen, Patio off carport. Storage room off back of home, cover patio, well for yard irrigation. Home is located right off Hwy 27 in neighborhood called Asking Sun Ray Homes. $67,500.- Melba C Taylor Broker/Realtor - Frostproof Realty, LLC - Ph 863-635-4246 - Fax 877-637-1864 - www.frostproofrealty.com

481 Palmetto Ave - Frostproof - Beautiful brick home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Spacious living room with cathedral ceiling and gas fireplace. Separate dining room, Kitchen has large closet pantry with newer stove and refrigerator. Split bedroom plan. Has attached single carport plus a detached 24X36+/- double carport with large storage room that has a window a/c unit. Also has a 18X28+/- utility building/workshop. Yard has irrigation with well, shade trees with a variety of fruit trees, and large double lot 140X145+/- Asking only $139,900. Melba Taylor- Broker/Realtor - Frostproof Realty, LLC - 863-635-4246PH www.frostproofrealty.com

Bok Tower Gardens. No reservations required.

At the gate, family caregiver’s mention they are with the Alzheimer’s Association “Caregiver’s Day Out.”

UPCOMING MAY 14 A ceremony to recognize injured and fallen law enforcement officers will be hosted by the Lake Wales Police Officer’s Association at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 14 on the front lawn of the Lake Wales Police Department, 133 E. Tillman Ave. Luminarias can be dedicated for $10. This event is open to the public.

MAY 15 Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Council will host its “Century of Community” Citizen of the Year Celebration & Community Awards Dinner Friday, May 15 at the Lake Wales Country Club. Reservations for this ‘black tie optional’ event are requested no later than Friday, May 8th, by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 676-3445. The cost is $60 per person or $500 to sponsor a table for eight.

524 Raymond Ave Frostproof, Stylish 3 bedroom 2 bath home, new ceramic tile, carpet and LG stainless steel kitchen appliances, Kenmore washer and dryer, L shaped concrete patio, single car garage and large back yard with oak trees, and circular fire pit for enjoyment.

Asking $120,000. OBO, Contact Michelle for an appointment 8 6 3 - 5 2 8 - 1 1 3 6 , realtygirl@juno.com or Keystone Realty Inc. 863-635-0030. www.Keystone-RealEstate.NET

707 Curran St - Lake Wales This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home sits on the shores of Lake Warren. Has Formal living and dining room, family room with fireplace. Screened in porch overlooking lake. Double garage with utility area. It is conventional located to shopping in a nice neighborhood. Reduced to $119,900.Frostproof Realty ph 863-635-4246 LLC www.frostproofrealty.com (P1020484)

www.primeplusrealesate.com

FIND A JOB! BUY A HOME! BUY A CAR!

CORNER lot, fenced back yard, 2 storage buildings, CB 3BR/2BA home with 21x22 family room, completely tiled floors except in bedrooms, carport, additional parking, alarm system, in “MOVE IN” CONDITION! ASKING $83,500 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy

Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

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PUT CLASSIFIEDS TO WORK FOR YOU!

326 N Scenic Hwy, Frostproof 4 bedroom 2 bath home, corner lot, wood floors throughout, ceramic tile in the kitchen, 4th bedroom could be in law apartment complete with full bath, living room area, small kitchenette, exterior access, double carport, newer a/c heat pump installed.

Asking only $78,000. Hurry buy now and he may throw in the boat!! Contact Wesley 863-5288265 or Keystone Realty Inc 863-635-0030. www.KeystoneRealEstate.NET.

MAY 16 Tribal Extreme Mud Run, 8:30 a.m., Intersection of FL-37 and Co. Rd. 640, Mulberry.

Info: 864-915-6423.

MAY 16 Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show 5:15 p.m., 100 Lake Silver Dr., Winter Haven. Free.

Info: 863-412-7578.

MAY 20 Lake Wales Lions Club offers free diabetic testing at public library downstairs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 20. For questions call 676-6861.

MAY 25 Memorial Day Carillon Concerts, 1 & 3 p.m., Bok Tower Gardens.

Info: 863-676-1408.

DAILY Frostproof Seventhday Adventist Church, 11 a.m. free soup and sandwiches to sick and shut-ins, 530 N. Scenic Hwy. Call: 863-635-3500 or 863-657-2495.

MONDAY Yoga, Lake Wales Library, 290 Cypress Garden Lane. Monday and Wednesday, 5:30 to 6:45 pm in the Lake Wales Public Library’s Meeting Room. Wear loose-fitting clothing and bring water if desired. No prior experience is needed. Class fees are $10 per class, $32 for 4 classes or $60 for 8 classes.

Family Literacy Academy, free GED/ESOL classes, 5-8 p.m., Monday, Thursday, Janie Howard Wilson Elementary; 9-noon, Tuesday through Thursday, Mary Campbell Community Center. The Academy provides tutoring for their school age children and child care for preschoolers. Call: 863-604-9012 or 863-2241250. Volunteers needed to tutor students.

Lake Wales Quilters, 1 p.m., second Monday, First United Methodist Church, 230 North 5th St. Call: 863-676-3949.

Women’s Business Connection of Greater Lake Wales meeting, 6-8:30 p.m., second Monday, The Oasis Spa. ww.LakeWalesNetworking4Women.com or 863-632-1448.

TUESDAY Polk Works Mobile Unit, first Tuesday, 9 a.m., Lake Wales Library, help applying for jobs, preparing resumes, submitting applications and online jobs search.

Free. Call: 863-508-1100.

Lake Wales City Commission meeting, 6 p.m., first and third Tuesday, City Municipal Building, 201 W. Central Ave. Comments limited to five minutes per person.

Page 22 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

POPS ceremony celebrates students, parents

By STEVE STEINER ssteiner@ heartlandnewspapers.com

Walter Hawkins, Chairman of the Board for POPS Inc., was effusive in his praise for Joyce Bentley and the Bartow division of the Orlando-based organization. He was present, along with several others from Orlando, for the POPS breakfast celebration held Friday, April 24 at the Bartow Civic Center.

POPS, which is an acronym for Professional Opportunities Program for Students, is a 501 (c)(3) program that provides personal and professional development for teenagers who face social, economic or environmental barriers that may impact the quality of their lives. Its goal is to prepare students for future success and is a collaboration among students, parents, schools, and community and business leaders. Its mission is to assist the students in the completion of high school, motivate them to pursue advanced education and obtain gainful employment. (Source: www. popsinc.org) “Since this program has begun, we’ve had a 100 percent graduation rate,” said Hawkins.

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE 814 Charles St.-Frostproof 3 bedroom 1 full bath, concrete block home, corner lot, family room could be 4th bedroom, screen in porch, fenced yard Asking $85,000. OBO Bring Offer!

Ask for Michelle 863-5281136 Keystone Realty Inc 863-635-0030 realtygirl@juno.com 10 Plum Ave-Frostproof 3 bedroom 2 bath, wood frame with vinyl siding home on a corner lot, carport, shed, range, refrigerator, dishwasher, ceiling fans. Asking $74,900.00 Ask for Wesley Wise 863-528-8265 Keystone Realty Inc 863-6350030 www.KeystoneRealEstate.NET. Keystone Realty Inc. 245 S. Scenic Hwy. Frostproof, FL 33843 realtygirl@juno.com Office: 863-635-0030 Fax: 863-635-0031 Cell: 863-528-1136 www.Keyston-RealEstate.NET

NEED CASH? Have A Garage Sale!

PHOTOS BY STEVE STEINER

Walter Hawkins, the Chairman of the Board with POPS, Inc., opens the ceremony celebrating the Bartow’s program.

“Plus 100 percent of the students have progressed to the next grade in school.” He closed his remarks by lauding the Bartow program, as it has created the foundation for tomorrow’s leaders.

One by one, guest speakers, such as Bartow Public Library Director Roxanna Tovrea and others spoke of the positive and dramatic impact the POPS program has had, not just on the students enrolled, but how it has bettered the community.

“The library has had the privilege hosting a number of the POPS programs,” said Tovrea, who spoke of her firsthand observations about the students involved.

“As they progress through the program, you can see their growth.”

Words of encouragement from Eugene 1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

CLINCH LAKE-LAKE FRONT HOME! 3BR/2BA with 18x21 Great room built in 2005!

Open living/dining/Oak kitchen area, split bedroom plan & master has its own bath and walk-in-closet,tile/laminate flooring, PLUS 1BR/1BA “InLaw” area with separate entrance & separate kitchen, 12x50 screen porch overlooking CLINCH LAKE, sea wall & DOCK! CALL TODAY! ASKING $298,900 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frost-

proof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

FIND YOUR BEST FRIEND IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!

Joshlynn DeRiso (center, at podium), serves as the mistress of ceremony at the POPS Inc. breakfast held Friday, April 24 at the Bartow Civic Center.

Kendrick, an education taught him something of partner, followed, as he value: “Accomplish more urged students to focus. in life than you think you “Decide what you can.” want,” he said, and addAdditional speakers ined that while it sounds cluded Barbara Newton, simple, it takes work and who also is with the dedication. Toward that headquarters in Orlando. he quoted the late Maya In her delivery she Angelou. “I did then what raised the fact that POPS I knew how to do. Now involves both a student that I know better, I do and parents. Both, she better.” said, are “enrolled” in the However, perhaps the program. best testimony came from Hers was a follow-up to Edward Kraweic, whose comments made just prison, Nicholas, is currently or by Joyce Bentley, who enrolled in POPS. heads the Bartow POPS “Every child wants to Inc. The overriding goal, be motivated. Every child she said, is the giving wants to be mentored,” back to the community said Kraweic. His son, he while at the same time said, has aspirations, but building character. when first starting out, “Enrollment in the had placed limitations on program is not just filling himself, being filled with out an application,” said doubts whether he could Bentley, who detailed the succeed. POPS, he said, process involved before helped “put the tools” on a student is accepted, the table for his son. It which is extensive.

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

HUGE 5 bedroom 3 bath home!

There are 5 bedrooms and a bonus room with a closet, so could easily be SIX BEDROOMS! 3 bedrooms are downstairs along with a formal dining room, kitchen, and full bathroom. There is a 27x26 tiled great room and 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths upstairs in a newer addition (2004) to the home! In addition to all this you can enjoy sunning from your own balcony off the master suite that has a full walk-inshower, Jacuzzi tub & dual sinks! Downstairs you have a 12x27 open patio that perfect for cooking out! COME SEE THIS BEAUTY FOR $132,500 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

1020 HOUSES FOR SALE

LAKE REEDY LAKEFRONT HOME & POOL! 4BR/3BA home with heated pool! Huge great room with fireplace has cathedral ceiling and encompasses living, formal dining, gourmet kitchen with almost new kitchen cabinets/granite counter tops/top-of-line appliances (Bosch)/& wet bar. Master suite has its own sitting room, walk-in-closet, bedroom has panoramic views of Lk Reedy & pool. Master bath has Jacuzzi, separate shower, dual sinks, make-up area, water & linen closets! AMENITIES! 175 Ft. lakefrontage, dock with boat house, gazebo, manicured lawn, 4267 S.F. living area, 2 kitchens (one fully equipped service kitchen), skylights & light tubes, Florida rm, screened & heated pool, attached 2 car garage, & detached 2 car garage! ASKING $449,000

Everyone is in rapt attention as Joyce Bentley (at the podium) elaborates upon the mission and goals of POPS, Inc. Beside her is Barbara Newton, who is with the Orlando-based headquarters.

“There’s no free ride for anyone.”

But it pays off. As an example, Bentley pointed to a graduate who had applied one summer to an intern program with GE. He was one of 158 for the one position being offered. It was his participation in POPS that landed him the internship, she said.

Friday’s breakfast also served as a fundraiser.

Every summer POPS has an intern program to provide jobs for its students. The companies that employ an intern do not bear the cost of paying a wage, which is covered by POPS. To learn more POPS, Inc., is located at 415 E. Main St., in downtown Bartow. Call 863-537-6629. Visit: www. popsinc.org.

1095 MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE

NEW LISTING! Reedy Creekfront (200+ ft.) PLUS Lake Reedy access with this 1782 S. F. manufactured home! Lots of oaks for shade in the 1.6 ACRE yard, Detached double carport, large shed, near Arbuckle State Park, rural & quiet!

ASKING $110,000 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

1110 OUT OF AREA HOMES NORTH CAROLINA Short Term Cabin Rentals. In Beautiful Franklin North Carolina. Mountain Views, Close To All Activities. Call For Availability And Rates. Juana Wordell 828-3718596

1210 HOMES FOR RENT

ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy

GOT ANIMALS? WANT LAKE FRONT? This is for YOU! 4.96 Acres on Clinch Lake with 355 ft on the shore of the lake! PLUS a large 3 bedroom 2 bath (split plan) manufactured home. A beautiful location and PERFECT for a horse or cow! ASKING $174,500. ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath home on 1 acre lot for sale!

1800 s.f. living area and a garage, plus a large storage room, living room and great room. Most of the home is tiled and it is on a paved road near Hwy 27 for easy access to Lake Wales, Babson Park, and Frostproof! ASKING $127,000 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

Two bedroom Two bath with an office (could be 3rd BR) large open great rm (living & Dining area) and a super spacious kitchen with lots of cabinets & counter tops! Master has it’s own bath & large w-i-c! A comfortable & welcoming home!

ASKING $68,500 Estelle Sullivan Realty LLC 109 N Scenic Hwy Frostproof Fl

863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

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Great Deals in the Classifieds!

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42 Pine Road, Babson Park 3/2 home with fireplace, in ground pool with screen enclosure, detached workshop/shed, fenced in back yard. $950.00/month, $950 Security deposit Call Wesley 863-528-8265 or Keystone Realty Inc. 863-635-0030.

Lake Wales REMODELED DUPLEX- Near LWHS, this 2 BD/ 2 BA duplex has a one car garage with new flooring, paint, kitchen and much more. $750/ month, SD $750. Call Cole Vogel at Legacy Real Estate Center, Inc. 863-6760333 and visit www. RentWithLegacy.com GET RESULTS USE CLASSIFIED!

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Sun Newspapers Page 23

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Lake Wales FURNISHED PARK MODEL-SADDLEBAG RESORT- Available for 12 month lease. This 2/BD 1/BA has a large sun room, living room, family room and laundry. $675/Month and $675/Security Deposit. Visit RentWithLegacy.Com or call Cole Vogel at Legacy Real Estate Center, Inc. 863676-0333.

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212 E Stuart Ave Lake Wales, FL 33853 DundeeIMMACULATE 4BR/3BA HOME with open floor plan. Laminate and tile flooring, privacy fencing in backyard, and 2 car garage with opener and remotes. Pets ok. $1250/month, $1250 SD. Call Legacy Leasing Services, Inc 863-676-0024 or visit www.LegacyLeases.com Lake Wales -3BR/2BA home updated with new carpet and new interior and exterior paint. Indoor utility room includes washer and dryer.

Large fenced backyard. Lots of natural light. Ask about pets. $950/month, $950 SD Call Legacy Leasing Services, Inc 863-676-0024 or visit www.LegacyLeases.com Historic lakefront 4BR/3.5BA front home in golfing community with 2 fireplaces.

Completely renovated and updated. Hard wood floors, high ceilings, game room and built-in cabinets. Double car port and utility room with plenty of storage. Over looking beautiful Lake Easy, great for boating and fishing. This home is located on a stunning 1.25 wooded lot located in Highland Park. $1600/month, SD $1600. Call Legacy Leasing Services, Inc 863-676-0024 or visit www.LegacyLeases.com FrostproofVery clean 3BR/2BA home with large screened porch with access to Lake Reedy. 55+ community.

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, washer/dryer included. $980/month, SD $980. . Call Legacy Leasing Services, Inc 863-676-0024 or visit www.LegacyLeases.com Frostproof- BRAND NEW 4BR/2BA house on Lake Reedy. Granite counters, stainless steel appliances. Tile floors throughout. 4+ acres.

Beautiful covered dock with boat lift and swing for enjoying the lake views and fishing. $1200/month, SD $1200.

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225 E Park Ave Lake Wales, FL 33853

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1500 LOTS & ACREAGE

Board members question charter schools enrollment

By CATHY PALMER Correspondent

about them?” he asked.

LeRoy explained that 10 ACRES HWY. 544 some low-performing HAINES CITY. 330 ft. frontage on State Rd. 544, in Changes to some char- schools including the middle of industrial uses ter schools’ enrollment Janie Howard Wilson adjoining a large and Elementary School in drew criticism from some office/warehouse complex.

Currently planted to productive Polk County School Board Lake Wales could wind citrus while waiting for devel- members at the board’s up being shut down as opment. 4” well for citrus irri- Tuesday work session. charters and resumed by gation. It is within the city limthe public school district.

Board chairman Dick its of Haines City. Land use is The school has been BPM ( Business Park-Modified) Mullenax told his fellow Property is shown by appoint- board members and repeatedly designated ment. Asking $ 475,000. School Superintendent as low-performing and Possible conservative owner both district and state Kathryn LeRoy that he finance. All detail on web site 512-D www.maryad- had “concerns” about the Department of Education sit.com Mary L. Adsit, Real- repeated changes sought steps have been taken tor 863-285-7118 to bring up its school by some charter schools. and pupil ratings. LeRoy “Why does Chain of earlier said if the school Lakes Collegiate School continues to fail, it could need to admit 20 more be targeted for closure. kids?” he asked. “They 105’ FRONTAGE 19230 US 27 Also in her sights was only have 255 students S, LAKE WALES.This lot has low-performing Compass and are already approved frontage on the West side of Middle Charter School in for 280. Why do we have US 27 Just South of the Overpass of 27 and 60. Hi vis- to approve more students Bartow.

“It’s been a low-perthere?” ibility as the de-cel forming charter for the Board Member Hazel Lane from Hwy. 60 to US 27 South fronts on a part of it.

Sellers explained that the past three years,” LeRoy There is also access from Mul- school “has had lots of said. berry St. One school not quesapplications and we’re Diversified Use potential. tioned about its enrollparticularly looking at MARY L. ADSIT, Realtor PH ment fluctuations was the children who need those 863 285 7118 Lake Wales High School. two years of college All detail on web site “Because it’s the only high completed during their www.maryadsit.com school in town, we have high school years.” given them flexibility Sellers added that she mla. because if we don’t and highly encouraged all Mary L Adsit, Realtor kids enroll or want to the county’s high schools “THE LANDLADY” enroll and we say there’s to make available more 5757 Trask Road Ft. Meade, FL 33841 no room, we have to bus college level classes so Office 863-285-7118 those students out of students could graduate Fax 863-285-8888 with a significant number town,” LeRoy explained.

Cell 863-698-5377 LWHS has not exceeded of college credits already landlady@maryadsit.com its capacity and approved earned.

Web Site population of 1,823 with But the issues weren’t www.maryadsit.com its enrollment hovering just with high schools, Mullenax also questioned about 1,450 students.

Board members schools that are “low performing” charters. “What were told that charter 108 ACRES WITH PAVED ROAD FRONTAGE 2 nice ponds, cross fenced, cattle pens. Great site For additional cattle, hay field, row crops, citrus, etc. $ 4,200. Per acre.

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enrollment figures were not arbitrary or selected by the individual schools, but were based on facilities approved by the state DOE. They were also told that the charter schools based their budgets on project enrollments.

Another charter not questioned about its request to add students was New Beginnings High School in Lake Alfred.

New Beginnings targets drop-outs and at-risk students and helps them stay in school or return to school to obtain their high school diplomas. It has an approved student population of 823, but currently only has 467 project students next year. “Because of the nature of New Beginnings, we’re giving them the same flexibility as Lake Wales High School,” officials said.

All the board agreed with Seller when she asked the district to obtain success rates from the different schools.

“I think we need to look at these schools to see what their success rates are,” she said.

“I agree that we need to look at these and see how they are actually performing,” Board Member Kay Fields added.

That data will be provided as soon as district staff can obtain it, LeRoy said.

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Page 24 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Warner celebrates Class of 2015

PHOTOS BY ROBERT BLANCHARD

Warner University President Dr. Gregory Hall welcomes graduates and guests for Saturday’s Commencement ceremony held in the courtyard of the school.

Warner Board Trustee Rob Quam gives the Address to the Students at Saturday’s 2015 Commencement ceremony at Warner University.

Degrees line the laps of graduates as Saturday’s Commencement ceremony comes to an end at Warner University.

Professor Vicky Graham is named Warner University’s 2015 Professor of the Year and is presented with a plaque from Warner Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Steven Darr at Saturday’s ceremony.

Warner University President Dr. Gregory Hall presents Graduate Viola Kirby with her Masters Degree in Education.

The Warner University Ensemble directed by Rev Dana Hofstrom sings And Wherever You May Go

by Douglas E. Wagner as Saturday’s Commencement Ceremony winds down.

Webber holds 88th Commencement

President and CEO Dr. Keith Wade presents Webber InterProfessor Eileen Farchmin holds the school’s ceremonial national University graduate mace as she waits with Webber President and CEO Dr. Keith Maurica Smith with the PresiWade for the start of Friday’s 88th Annual Commencement dent’s Award during Webber’s at Webber International University in Babson Park.

88th Annual Commencement.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT BLANCHARD

The Polk County Sheriff Honor Guard present the Colors at the beginning of the ceremony.

The Address to the Graduates is given by Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd at Friday’s 88th Annual Commencement at Webber International University.

Sun Newspapers Page 25

FROSTPROOF

NEWS

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Frostproof OK’s fire fee study

New council reverses course in bid to keep volunteer department

By JAMES COULTER

frostproofnews@heartlandnewspapers.com

A study to determine how much city residents will have to pay in order to fund their own city volunteer fire department will be conducted now that the City Council has given it their approval.

Frostproof City Council members voted 3-2 Monday evening to approve a fire assessment study to be conducted once their original interlocal fire agreement, which would have conferred control of the city’s fire protection over to the county, returns unsigned from the county.

Prior to their regular meeting, a city workshop was held with a presentation by Sandi Melgarejo of Government Services Group, Inc., the company that has been hired to conduct the study.

During the presentation, Melgarejo explained the fire assessment fee in further detail and laid out a potential timeline for the implementation of the study and the potential fire assessment rates.

Her company, GSG, have been involved in hundreds of successful city projects, and has conducted more than more than 250 assessment programs, including fire assessments for more than 100 cities and counties.

“Of the programs implemented, fire assessment rates range from $6 to $206 per residential dwelling unit, with an average of $120,” Melgarejo outlined in her presentation.

Now that the study has received approval, its analysis is expected to take an estimated 60 to 90 days, with an assessment report of preliminary rates to be prepared by either this August or September.

Once the city council reviews and approves the analysis, they can decide to move forward with the implementation of the proposed rates through the adoption of a home rule ordinance.

To do this, first, the city council will consider and vote on an initial resolution later that month, followed by a final resolution to be considered through a public hearing sometime in October.

When the City considers the final resolution, they will decide whether to go along with the preliminary rates or have them lowered.

Once the rates have been approved, they will be implemented onto the city, first through separate bills during the next fiscal year, and then onto the tax bill the following fiscal year.

The total cost of the assessment study will be $11,500, which will go towards the analysis, not the implementation.

If the city decided to hire GSG to implement the proposed fire assessment fee, the costs for that implementation would be an estimated $5,000-6,000.

If the city decided to implement the proposed fire assessment fee on their own, GSG would be able to facilitate them by providing some samples and advising them to a law firm for additional legal counsel.

As to how the city would cover these costs, it was recommended that they derive their funding through the city’s

FILE PHOTO

Frostproof will now study implementing its own fire fee to continue funding its volunteer department. fire reserves.

This year’s projected fire reserves is $127,000; however, this does not take into account this current fiscal year.

As such, the reserves at the end of this fiscal year are expected to be $48,000, and with all other expenses figured, the total amount may be close to $12,000, City Finance Director Melody Walsh explained.

Vice Mayor Rodney Cannon inquired whether it was possible to fund the study out of the general fund, and then reimburse the funds from the fire reserve after the audited figures came in.

City Attorney Mark Smith said they could do a budget reconciliation either during budget negotiations for next fiscal year or by taking it out of fire reserves now.

A fire assessment is a charge implemented on property in order to fund city services such as fire protection; however, this assessment does not cover Emergency Medical Service (EMS) calls.

EMS calls, such as motor vehicle accidents, are considered non-specific calls, since they are not specifically related to fire protection.

“Usually, fire departments are staffed to run fire and emergency calls, but not necessarily do they take into account how many automobile accidents they’re going to have to run,” Melgarejo said.

If, during the analysis, EMS calls are discovered to be a major component of the fire department, then the city would have to set up a separate category for those calls, which would then be funded through another source such as the general fund.

For example, one city in Suwanee County that GSG worked with has a non-specific category to cover EMS calls for incidents such as automobile

accidents, which are covered by that city’s general fund.

When the rates are developed from this assessment study, they will not apply to government properties or tax-exempt properties such as churches only if the city so chooses not to have them charged, with any fire protection for them being funded through the city’s general fund.

A hardship “exemption” would also be considered for properties that are unable to afford the assessment fee, specifically homeowners living under the poverty level on homesteaded property.

City Council Member Martha Neher asked whether or not homeowners would have to pay 100 percent of the costs during their first year that the fire assessment fee is implemented, to which Melgarejo responded that it would depend on the city’s particular situation.

You have a unique situation in which you lost a lot of revenue with the county pulling out and not helping to fund for your area,” Melgarejo explained. “[The fire assessment] is a hard hit on property owners who aren’t used to paying that, and so sometimes it’s best to work it in as opposed to going one hundred percent.”

This proposed study follows the city’s decision two weeks prior to request the withdrawal of their interlocal agreement application, which, had it been approved by the Polk County Board of Commissioners, would have conferred control of fire protection services over to the county, thus disbanding the city volunteer department.

The city had been required to make a decision about their fire department after being notified by Polk County Emergency Rescue that their outside protection area funding was going to

be eliminated later this year.

The city had initially decided to have the county take over fire protection services through a proposed interlocal agreement but this decision proved highly unpopular with some city residents.

The council, now consisting of two new members, both of whom also voiced their disapproval of the city’s initial decision, voted to request the county to have their interlocal agreement application withdrawn.

City Attorney Mark Smith informed the council that he had not yet received notification from the County as to whether it will sign or not sign the interlocal agreement.

“I still believe the county, in light of the last vote, will agree not to sign the contract and send it back, but I do not have that confirmed at this point,” Smith said.

As such, he warned that if the council were to move forward with their contract with GSG, and that if the county ended up signing the interlocal agreement with the city, that they would have to find a way to rescind their contract with GSG. Thus, it was recommended that the city only enter into the contract once they have received their unsigned contract from the county.

Vice Mayor Rodney Cannon moved that the city enter into an agreement with GSG to perform a study to determine a local fire assessment, that the $11,500 cost of this assessment is funded from the city fire reserve, and that the city only enter into the agreement once it has received its interlocal agreement unsigned from the county.

The motion was seconded, and passed with a vote of 3-2. Anne Dickinson and Martha Neher dissented.

Page 26 Sun Newspapers

SPORTS

EXTRA

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Highlanders have quiet finish to good baseball season

left field and in the eyes of the batters at an angle.

Normally a field faces east so the hitters don’t have a The baseball season ended quietly for the Lake problem with the sun.

“I don’t remember Wales Highlanders last playing on a field facing in Wednesday when they that direction this year,” lost to Eau Gallie 2-1 in Andress admitted. “But Melbourne in the first round of the state playoffs. both teams had to face LWHS had trouble pro- into it.”

The Highlanders just ducing runs in the district couldn’t come up with championship game against Winter Haven in a crucial hits.

“Our bats got quiet at 9-1 loss and the bats were silent again in the playoffs. the wrong time,” Andress commented. “We had a The Highlanders scored chance to break on top two runs in their last 14 early. Even after we scored innings. a run, we had runners on “It was disappointing first and second with none to exit early when we out and we couldn’t even thought we could get get the go-ahead run to a run going,” said Lake third.”

Wales coach David Andress.

The Highlanders finish the year with a 21-8 record and tied for the regular-season championship in Class 6A, District 8 at 10-2.

“We had a great season,” Andress pointed out.

“You don’t win 20 games a lot and we won 21. And that was with an 0-2 start on the season. I’m a little disappointed how we finished but we had a great season, we really did.”

Against Eau Gallie, the Highlanders didn’t score until the top of the seventh with Bryce Hulett coming home on a solid hit by Russell Klingler.

That tied the score 1-1 going into the bottom of the seventh but the Commodores scored in the last inning to win 2-1.

Zak Wilson had the host’s key hits, with RBI’s in the fifth and final frame.

In a unique situation, Eau Gallie has a baseball field that faces northwest.

The setting sun was over

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Andress looks back on the season with positive feelings.

“I love this group. The seniors and I will be forever linked. I’m very sad to see this group go.”

The Highlanders had eight seniors. Clay Barnes, Mykel Gordon, Russell Klingler and Bryan Roecker were mainstays on the team. Anthony Anderson and Kayron Hilson saw limited playing time while Karl Morales and Chase Tingle missed much of the season with injuries.

“I’m looking forward to next year,” Andress PHOTO BY ROBERT BLANCHARD continued. “I saw a lot of underclassmen step up Lake Wales outfielder Clay Barnes is one of eight seniors that will be departing the Highlander and play big.” baseball team after a fine spring season.

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Sun Newspapers Page 27

SPORTS

EXTRA

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Former Highlander softball stars still shining

Several former Lake Wales Highlander softball stars are continuing to shine during their college careers.

Southeastern University pitcher Susan Hinks is on the all-Sun Conference team. The Lake Wales High School graduate had a team-best 18-6 record and 2.28 ERA in 28 games.

She was second in wins and fifth in ERA in the conference. She added

one save. She finished second in the conference in innings pitched with 130.1 and the freshman was 7-0 with a 0.91 ERA. Outfielder Kaleigh Floyd of Southeastern University batted .328 with 24 RBIs in 47 games. The past Highlander had 16 stolen bases, third on the squad, in 19 attempts and a .988 fielding percentage in 80 chances.

On March 23, she was named the conferences Player of the Week.

She hit safely in all seven games for the week of March 16 with a .682 batting average, and 10 RBIs. On March 21, Floyd was 3-for-3 with two RBIs against Indiana Tech in a 12-4 win, then went 2-for-2 with two runs scored and 4-for-5 with three runs scored and three RBIs against

Northwestern Ohio.

Tashayla Irvis led Florida A&M University with a .301 batting average in starting all 49 games. The Lake Wales High alumna had six RBIs. Florida Atlantic University junior Carnesha Thompson batted .282 with two home runs and 23 RBIs in starting all 51 games. She competed for Lake Wales High.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Former Highlander Susan Hinks was an 18-game winner for Southeastern University this season.

Kaleigh Floyd, a former Highlander, had 24 RBI and 16 stolen bases for Southeastern University this spring.

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There is an old house (about 1921) in disrepair and a horse barn. Property is fenced.

South line goes to the City of Lake Wales Water Treatment plant.

Asking price $654,000.

All detail on web site www.maryadsit.com Mary L. Adsit, Realtor 863-285-7118 ACREAGE 5 Acres m/l, paved road, partially cleared (county water/sewer nearby) ASKING $60,000 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof Fl 863-632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com LOT IN SUN RAY HOMES subdivision ASKING $5,000 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof, Fl 863632-2062 www.EstelleSullivan.com

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Palm Avenue, Frostproof, 19 BUILDING LOTS located between D. St and F. Street. We have the plans for Meadows Ridge in our office. This property is cleared and ready for purchase. City Sewer and Water are available. Street lights in place. Sidewalks and other infrastructure requirements through City Hall. Buyer could possibly rezone the property and change the plans altogether. Endless possibilities with this piece of property. Asking $250,000 OBO, Call Cindy 863-528-0366 or Keystone Realty Inc. 863www.Keystone635-0030 RealEstate.NET. ARE YOU ONLINE? INCREASE YOUR EXPOSURE! Add your internet address to your ad for a little extra!

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US 27 Race Trac/Home Depot neighborhood. 5.63 acres, 1,014 ft. West side US 27 frontage. Race Trac joins on South and is across 27 from Home Depot. This is a controlled intersection. Asking price is $ 1,068,000. And owner is motivated to sell!

All details web site www.maryadsit.com Mary L. Adsit, Realtor 863-285- 7118

1515 WATERFRONT LAKE FRONT PROPERTY! 4.96 Acres-Clinch Lake, paved road frontage, 355 ft lakefront, new survey, new entry road ASKING $185,000 3.2 Acres-Streety Lake, paved road frontage, much lakefront on private/fishing lake! Close to Fly Wheelers! ASKING $99,000 2.79 Acres-Streety Lake, paved road frontage, fenced, private/fishing lake! Close to Fly Wheelers!

ASKING $99,900 1 Acre m/l-Lake Reedy (site built homes only), paved road frontage, 156 ft m/l on Reedy, fishing lake!

ASKING $129,500 1 Acre m/l-Lake Reedy (site built homes only), paved road frontage, 160 ft m/l on Reedy, fishing lake!

ASKING $115,000 ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC 109 N. Scenic Hwy Frostproof, Fl. 33843

Page 28 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015 1620 COMMERCIAL/ INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

198 a/c potential Commercial/Industrial development site. 3900+ ft. frontage 4 lane Hwy. 60, 2300 ft. frontage FL Midland Rail, 3400+ ft. frontage West Lake Wales Rd. Adjoins City of Lake Wales West boundary, Industrial land use on West side.

Short distance from proposed Central Polk Parkway. Natural gas available. Great location for the next big Industrial/Commercial development for Lake Wales. Ideal site to compliment CSX off site operations.

152-A on web site.

Mary L Adsit, Realtor “THE LANDLADY” 5757 Trask Road Ft. Meade, FL 33841 Office 863-285-7118 Fax 863-285-8888 Cell 863-698-5377 landlady@maryadsit.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Dave Ochs landed this nice 8.2 pound bass during an event at Camp Mack last weekend.

Kissimmee Ramblins: Full schedule ahead

By CAPTAIN RON DENTON OutdOOrs COlumnist

We’ve all enjoyed a nice break in the weather for the past week or so, and it hasn’t hurt the fishing one bit!

You can be assured that we anglers enjoy a cooler day and nice breeze now and again, although too much wind isn’t our friend.

Blue Gill are running pretty good in spots right now, and the bass were running good for Bobby Wooten, who won the Camp Mack one man event this past weekend. He had a big fish of 9.5 pounds as part of his take overall of 22.5 pounds to grab first place.

Wayne Yohn was second with 16.3 pounds and third was James Pearson who weighed in at 15.85 pounds.

One of our favorites, Big Dawg Baits, was in town this past weekend for their Classic. We didn’t get the results in time for this week’s paper, but we’ll work on it for next time.

There is still a pretty full schedule coming up.

The ToHo Elite, one man group, will be at Camp Mack Saturday, and they are expecting upwards of 50 boats. For details, contact Joe Clements at 407791-4380. Weigh-in is 3 p.m.

No tournaments Sunday, but we can’t forget it’s a special day. Happy Mothers Day! On May 16, Fishers of Men is planning for 20-25 boats with a weigh in

Call today and subscribe to the

NEWS

Lake Wales-Frostproof and see for yourself.

863-676-3467

AGRICULTURAL STORAGE. SALE PENDING. 3+- acres, Enclosed in 6’ Chain link, wide entry gate, stabilized drive area, 2150 sq. ft. enclosed and used for 2 air conditioned offices , inside storage. 4281 sq. ft. covered outside open storage. Land use A/RR, must be an agricultural use. One inside storage area is 44’ deep, 19’ wide with access door to accommodate a semi-trailer. Located Rhoden Loop Road North. All details 142-A on my web site www.maryadsit.com.

Shown by appointment only. Mary L. Adsit, Realtor 863- 285-7118

Find it in the Classifieds!

Bobby Wooten put a string together of 22.5 pounds, including this nice 9.5 pounder last weekend at Camp Mack.

3 p.m. Call Jim Trenary, 386-956-7989, for information. On May 17, the Xtreme Bass Series will make a return visit with a 3 p.m. weigh in. Call 941-812-4084 for information.

Don’t forget that May 25 is Memorial Day, and on May 30 we’re all looking forward to the Bartow High school Senior Sting; anticipating some 40-50 boats for that traditional event which is a lot of fun.

Coffee and doughnuts taste better when you are reading your hometown newspaper

Don’t believe it?

5 LINCOLN AVE INDUSTRIAL WITH POSSIBLE RAIL 2.68 A/c, 5 storage buildings, paving, office, etc.

Extensive detail and pictures web site www.maryadsit.com 514-D Asking $ 395,000. Owner terms for qualified buyer.

MARY L. ADSIT, Realtor 863 285 7118

FOR SALE OR LEASE $45,000.00 802 S. Charleston Avenue, Fort Meade, Florida SPECIAL OFFER THIS WEEK --Commercial location with immaculate concrete block building on 110’x 120’ lot on busy U.S. Highway. Corner lot for easy access! Seller will consider owner financing, lease, or lease option! Many possibilities and opportunities! Judy Barnett, King Real Estate Services, 863-5593237.

Lake Wales CONVENIENT LOCATION- Nice office space in downtown Lake Wales on the corner of 1st Street and Central Avenue. Front entrance facing 1st Street with parking in rear. Rent $750.00 a Security month/$750.00 Deposit. Water included. Call Cole Vogel at Legacy Real Estate Center, Inc. 863-6760333 and visit www.RentWithLegacy.com

1620 COMMERCIAL/ INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

2001 HELP WANTED Advertising Account Manager Are you looking for a career with $40,000-$55,000+ earnings potential?

Lake Wales OFFICE SPACE- A second story office space in downtown Lake Wales with private entrance with beautiful, original hard wood floors from the 20's. Updated electrical and phone system.

Over 2300 SF with three large conference areas, break room, reception area and ample private office options. Two restrooms service the space and every room has a view! Can be divide into smaller units. $1,500/month, SD $1,500.

Call Cole Vogel at Legacy Real Estate Center, Inc. 863-6760333 and visit www.RentWithLegacy.com

1650 FARMS/RANCHES

100 ACRE RANCH Includes 5 BR 4 bath 2 story home, 200+ year old Oak trees, landscaped yard, new cattle pens, fenced and cross fenced. Fish ponds, lots of shade for cattle, improved pasture. Frequently see Deer, Turkey, Hog, Coon, etc. Ideal for the small rancher and great for raising children. Hwy. 98 between Ft. Meade and Frost139-A proof. All detail www.maryadsit.com Shown by appointment Mary L. Adsit, Realtor 863-285-7118.

2000 EMPLOYMENT 2001 HELP WANTED 2 Cross Country Drivers needed w/CDL- clean record Minimal 2 yrs exp Call Carmelo Diaz at 863-273-1730 CASE WORKER, P/T Receive referrals & completes annual client assessments; devise care plans; secure & target client support services; maintain case records. Apply in person at NUHOPE Elder Care Services, Inc., 6414 U S Hwy 27 South, Sebring. EOE DFWP Driver Trainees Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises. Earn $800 per week!

Local CDL Training 1-877-214-3624 Fitness instructor needed- 2 classes daily Mon - Fri, 8-10am Seeking fun loving, energetic person for 55+ community Avon Park, Fl. Send resume to frontdesk@highlandsridge.com

Immediate Openings!

Lake Placid ****************

Are your ready for a career where you can make a difference in the community?

Are you a people-person that enjoys socializing and networking at community events?

The Polk County Sun is looking for Advertising Account Managers ready to join a winning team of professionals. We’re looking for good people who want an exciting career with a growing media company. Experience is preferred, but we’re willing to train the right person.

We need people who really care about their community and the businesses that make our local economy tick.

Our Advertising Account Managers work closely with the local business owners to provide powerful advertising campaigns that deliver results.

We Offer: •$25,000 per year salary, plus commissions

• Vacation pay • Health insurance •Sick pay and short term disability • 401(k) • Training • Advancement opportunities Don’t miss this opportunity to interview for a career as an Advertising Account Manager at The Polk County Sun. We are a drug and nicotine free workplace. Pree m p l o y m e n t drug/nicotine testing required.

The Polk County Sun Attn: Paul Northrop 190 S Florida Ave Bartow, FL 33830 Email: pnorthrop@Heartlandnewspapers.com

Only Qualified Applicants Need Apply Licensed Bail Bondsman. Call 533-4982 or Respond: PO box 1272, Bartow, FL 33830

Sun Coast Press, a rapidly growing daily and commercial print shop, has the following opportunity: Press Operator: Full Time Minimum 5 years of experience operating a Community or Urbanite single width press. Willingness to work day/night shift, weekends, and holidays. Proficient with back to back color registration, folder and 1/4 folder operations, Knowledge of pasters and stackers a plus.

Must be comfortable working in a fast paced, deadline and quality oriented environment.

We offer health insurance, paid holidays, PTO, 401K, AFLAC We are a drug and nicotine free workplace. Pre-employment testing required.

Please send resume to Christopher Germann, Press Manager, at:

COMFORT KEEPERS In-Home Care is Hiring CNA, HHA and Homemaker Companion posiHigh School tions diploma/GED required Flexible hours Apply cgermann@suncoastpress.com online: ck381.ersp.biz/employ 2005 SERVICES ment or call 863-385ABORTION NOT AN OPTION? 8558.

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 29

Page 30 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Semi-pro hoops team calling Kirkland Gym home this summer Heartland Prowl part of the Florida Basketball Association

By DENNIS LATTA SportS CorreSpondent The Heartland Prowl has moved to Lake Wales this spring, and they are happy they did.

The Prowl is a team in the Florida Basketball Association, a semi-professional league with five teams stretched across the state. They are playing most of their home games at Kirkland Gym in Lake Wales this season.

The FBA is made up of players who just enjoy playing the game though they have hopes of being noticed by someone and maybe playing some professional basketball. The Prowl have 11 players on their roster and eight of them are from Polk County.

“This year was the first year we’ve had tryouts,” explains general manager and franchise owner Cornell Young. “We did have to cut a few people.

We don’t need people just sitting there on the bench.”

This is the fourth season for the Prowl.

“Our first three seasons, we played at Warner College. This year, we’re trying to let fans know what is going on. Kirkland is a good 2005 SERVICES Attention VIAGRA 100MG/ CIALIS 20mg, 40 Pills + 4/free, for only-$99! No Prescription needed! Discreet Shipping. Call Now 1-800-492-2316 *DIVORCE As LOW AS $40* Covers Children, Etc…. Only One Signature Required! *Excludes govt. fees! Free Info!

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Please visit http://sfsc.interviewexchange.com for detailed position announcements. 863-784-7132.

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site for us,” Young says.

Players in the FBA have full-time jobs. The games are on Saturdays and normally are a day trip. Games are played at 3 p.m.

“We don’t want to take up a Saturday evening,” Young comments. “We want our players and our fans to have Saturday night off.”

The Prowl hosted the Marion County Showtime Stallions last Saturday, falling 126116. Other teams in the league are from Orlando, Palm Beach and Miami.

“The league is getting better,” Young points out.

“There is no question they are playing purely for the love of the game.

We are trying to establish the league as a feeder system for overseas leagues. Some have played overseas.”

The Prowl have six players from Lakeland with Junior Geidi, Michael Floyd, Miguel Paul, Dennis Bender, Dazeran Ja’Quon Jones and Marcus Caspers.

Jamal Lawson is from Bartow and Rashawd Holsey is from Lakeland.

Players from Tallahassee, Alabama and the Bronx fill out the roster.

Kevin Pruett is the head coach this season.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT BLANCHARD

Heartland Prowl’s Miguel Paul is pressured by the Gold’s Tony Rileas in Saturday’s game at the Kirkland Gym in Lake Wales.

Left: Heartland Prowl’s Miguel Paul works his way around a Marion County player as he drives down court.

Young coached the first three seasons but has turned over the reins to Pruett, who was his assistant last year.

The Prowl’s next game

is scheduled May 16 against the Orlando based Florida Flight.

Information on the league can be found at www.thefba.wix.com.

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3010 ANNOUNCEMENTS AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and othersstart here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-5838

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5054 CONTRACTORS Miscellaneous Contracting N o J o b To o S m a l l !

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AVIATION CAREERS Hands on training for career opportunities in aviation, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-314-5838.

HELP PREVENT FORECLOSURE & Save Your Home! Get FREE Relief! Learn about your legal option to possibly lower your rate and modify your mortgage. 800670-8365

Lightening Rod Installation Painting Commercial & Residential Free Estimates

MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a Medical Office Assistant! No Experience Needed! Online training can get you job ready! HS Diploma/GED & PC/Internet needed! 1-888374-7294

Great Deals in the Classifieds!

Find your Best Friend in the Classifieds!

Classified = Sales

Struggling with DRUGS or ALCOHOL? Addicted to PILLS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 855-9953142

PROBLEMS with the IRS or State Taxes? Wall & Associates can settle for a fraction of what you owe! Results may vary. Not a solicitation for legal services.

877.330.3429 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work?

Denied benefits? We Can Help!

WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800860-6175 to start your application today!

The Prowl’s Julius Allgood drives to the hoop during a semi-pro basketball game Saturday at Kirkland Gym in Lake Wales.

5120 MEDICAL SERVICES

5230 MISCELLANEOUS

Canada Drug Center es tu mejor opcion para ordenar medicamentos seguros y economicos.

Nuestros servicios de farmacia con licencia Canadiense e Internacional te proveeran con ahorros de hasta el 75 todas las medicinas que necesites. Llama ahora al 1-800-261-2368 y obten $10 de descuento con tu primer orden ademas de envio gratuito.

Adoption- Enthusiastic, active, devoted couple seek to adopt and create adventurous family.

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A childless young married couple (she-36/he-37) seeks to adopt. Will be hands-on mom & devoted dad. Financial security. Expenses paid.

Call or Text; Nikki & Adam (Bar#0150789) 1800-790-5260

Hollis Smith

5088 HEALTH & BEAUTY Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800749-6515, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

ADOPTION- A childless young, happily married, couple in our 30s (he-33/she-36) seek to adopt. Will be hands-on mom & devoted dad. Financial security.

Expenses paid. Jackie & Mike.

1-888-279-8055 Adam Sklar #0150789

GRAPE HAMMOCK AIRBOAT TOURS ON LAKE KISSIMMEE MAKE YOUR TODAY RESERVATIONS 863-692-1500

Dish TV Retailer- SAVE 50% o qualifying packages! Startin $19.99/month (for 12 months.)

FREE Premium Movie Channels FREE Installation! CALL, COM PARE LOCAL DEALS 1-800-438 8168

You Sa ve Big Bucks Shopping Classifieds!

HERO MILES - To find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need. For information visit the Fisher House website at www.fisherhouse.org Keep Your Family and Property Safe! Home Bundles Home Security 24/7/365 monitoring. $1400 FREE Security Equipment. No Installation Fees.

Starting at $19.99/mo. Call 1800-795-9204 Life Alert. 24/7. One press of a button sends help FAST! Medical, Fire, Burglar. Even if you can’t reach a phone! FREE Brouchure. CALL 800-370-4824 RIDING LAWN MOWER 2011 26” Weed Eater 1, Electric Start. Runs Good. $200 OBO. call 863-635-5089

Sun Newspapers Page 31

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

6012 GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE, 1155 W. Turner St, Bartow. Fri May 8 & Sat May 9, 8 am - 2 pm.

Clothes - Tools - and Misc.

Moving Sale- Designer's Home, 1147 N. Lakeshore Blvd., Lake Wales. Saturday May 9 Hours 9-5 Can preview online at Zillow or Legacy Realty.

6020 AUCTIONS ONLINE Real Estate Auction

By Order of the U.S. Marshals Service Nominal Opening Bid: $500 Avon Park, FL 3047 West Scoralick Rd. Approx 0.18 ac lot Bidding starts May 13 williamsauction.com 800.982.0425 Williams & Williams FL Broker: Daniel S. Nelson Re Lic BK322309 Auctioneer: Williams & Williams Auc Lic AB2784

FIND YOUR BEST FRIEND IN THE CLASSIFIEDS! PUBLIC AUCTION Center Brothers, Inc. Tues, May 12th at 10am 4020 University Blvd Ct, Jacksonville, FL 32217 Acoustical Contractor Supplies, Access Flooring, Drywall Accessories, Steel Framing Studs, Vehicles, Warehouse Equip., Office Furniture, Computers & more!

15% BP - Onsite only Assignment Case #16-2015-CA002349 www.moeckerauctions.com / (800) 840-BIDS AB-1098 AU-3219, Eric Rubin PUBLIC AUCTION Center Brothers, Inc. Tues. May 12th at 10AM 4020 University Blvd. Ct. Jacksonville, FL 32217 Acoustical Contractor Supplies, Access Flooring, Drywall Accessories, Steel Framing Studs, Vehicles, Warehouse Equip., Office Furniture, Computers & more!

15%BP - Onsite Only Assignment Case #16-2015-CA-002349 www.moeckerauctions.com 800-840-BIDS AB-1098 AU-3219 Eric Rubin

6030 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Maple Dinette set - Drop Leaf Table, with 2 Captain’s Chairs & 2 Mate’s Chairs. $400,00 call 401-636-4097 Sofa Sleeper - Full Size Great condition. $325.00 Call 401-636-4097 Sofa Sleeper - Queen Size, Great condition $350.00 Call 401-636-4097

6035 FURNITURE Desk/Work Station. Split level with shelf below. 5' wide, 29" high, 29" deep. Excellent condition. Located in Lake Placid, Fl. $65 (863) 699-1119

WICKER CHAIR, new condition, 24’’ wide w/cushion, $35, 863465-4803.

DISH TV Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.)

SAVE! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 888-986-4858

6060 COMPUTER EQUIPMENT

KILL ROACHES! Buy Harris Tablets.

Eliminate Roach Roaches-Guaranteed. No Mess, Odorless, Long Lasting. Available: Ace Hardware, Farm & Feed Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot.com

BROTHER MFC 465 CN printer, 6 new ink refills, $25, 863-4654803.

Resistance exercise chair $100 863-655-4634

6160 LAWN & GARDEN

Romance novels New 50 for $10 863-402-2285

SHINDAIWA DH231 hedge trimmer, 30’’ bar, dual side, 22.5 engine, $325, 863-382-8852.

Sailing Dinghy- 8 ft w/oars Lightweight/stable 863-4657554

6232 CATS 1 YEAR OLD female Calico free to good home, spayed, all shots, beautiful, 863-464-0056.

6250 APPLIANCES WASHER/DRYER commercial set, heavy duty, stainless steel, exc. cond., 6 yrs old, $300/pair, 863-991-0225.

6260 MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE 14 Hess Trucks Different yrs & models Some banks Mostly older Some mint in boxes $140 863-402-2285 3 Wheel BIKE for Sale RED, Like New, Large Rear Basket $100 - call 863-676-3453 4 capt chairs- Tan suede Good cond $35/ea or $100/set 863414-1998 4 Golf cart batteries- 6 volt Heavy duty $30/ea 863-4143833 Antique bronze Jacob daybed Metal Like new $150 863465-5176 ATTN: CDL Drivers - Avg $55/yr $2K Sign-On-Bonus. Family Company w/Great miles. Love Your Job and Your Truck.

CDL-A Reg. (855)969-4952 www.drive4melton.mobi

AUTOMATIC POWER lift- Bruno for heavy duty power chair up to 350 lbs, $600 OBO 863465-4378 Best Beef Jerky in the USA! $10 Off the Original Beef Jerky Sampler. FREE Shipping. Great Gift Idea! Call Bulk Beef Jerky! 800496-2610 Dk wood bookcase w/3 shelves $35 863-414-1998 ENJOY 100% guaranteed, delivered-to-the-door Omaha Steaks!

SAVE 78% PLUS 4 FREE Burgers - The Happy Family Banquet - ONLY $49 99. Order Today 1800-406-8879 use code FZG or www.OmahaSteaks.com//sp84 Eureka Vacuum w/attach Nice, clean New belt & bag Works great $20 863-402-2285 Fitbit Flex Never used avocado green $75 obo 863-6572527 or 765-506-2973 Franklin Mint- heirloom plates Numbered 24 carat gold $20/ea 863-646-3608 Glasstop desk for work/study New $275 863-414-1998 Go Chair by Pride, 4 pcs, Battery operated $250 863-6554634 Inva Care Sure Step power chair Needs Batteries $200 863465-4378 INVACARE SURE step M91 HD power chair w/ onboard charger great cond $600 OBO 863-465-4378 KILL BED BUGS! Buy Harris Bed Bug Killer. Complete Treatment Program/ Kit. Harris Mattress Covers add Extra Protection!

Available: ACE Hardware. Buy Online: homedepot.com

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6260 MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

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SAWMILLS from only $4,397.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmillCut lumber any dimension. In Stock, ready to ship! FREE www.NorwoodInfo/DVD: Sawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N Set of 24 carat pure gold coated state quarters w/folders $65/ea 863-646-3608 SHARK STEAM pocket mop, $20, 863-385-3952.

STOP GNAT & MOSQUITO BITES! Buy Swamp Gator Natural Insect Repellent. Family & Pet Safe. Available at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot. Homedepot.com Sunfish Sailboat Good cond w/xtra sail $400 OBO Lake Placid 954-437-4313 or 954559-6726 Winchester 94 3030 Pre-64 Factory peeps, sight As new $750 863-465-4865

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MERCHANDISE

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7000 TRANSPORTATION 7009 USED CARS/TRUCKS

2005 Cadillac CTS 3.6L Sedan. $7,970. Automatic. Silver. Stock# B8390A. Call Tom Edwards Chrysler Dodge Jeep 863-533-0793. *** at LEATHER * V6 * SUNROOF * POWER SEAT * ALUMINUM WHEELS * AUTO TEMP * POWER WINDOWS * POWER LOCKS * TILT & CRUISE *** CERTIFIED W/ 110 PT INSPECTION *** LIMITED POWERTRAIN WARRANTY ***

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Certified 2014 Chevrolet Spark Hatch 2LT (Automatic) $14,495.

Stock# P5859. White. Kelley Buick Bartow. 863-440-5026.

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6000

Page 32 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HOT in the Marketplace

Easy and budget-friendly ways to add curb appeal Curb appeal can help a home get noticed in a bustling real estate market. Curb appeal also can contribute to the aesthetics of a neighborhood

for residents who plan to stay put, and many homeowners feel an attractive exterior is just as important as a comfortable interior.

Curb appeal can set your home apart from others, and improving curb appeal doesnÕt have to be expensive.

Homeowners do not have to spend a fortune to improve the curb appeal of their homes.

With these strategies, anyoneÕs home can take on a more appealing look.

Clean up A messy, untamed front yard can detract from a perfectly acceptable home. Cleaning up your yard and homeÕs exterior is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to give the place a makeover. Cut back overgrown shrubs, plants and trees. Make sure the front door is clearly visible and that any walkways are edged

This home at 17 Linda St, Frostproof was sold on Arpil 17, 2015 for $70,000. The home sits on a corner lot with a fenced back yard.

It has a well for irrigation system and screen room. Tiled throughout except bedrooms.

21x22 tiled Great room. Listed and sold by ESTELLE SULLIVAN REALTY LLC. and accessible. Store garbage pails behind a barrier and keep trash out of sight. Store childrenÕs toys in the backyard rather than strewn across the front lawn. These simple steps can improve curb appeal instantly.

Spruce up the lawn A well-manicured lawn can go a long way to making a home more appealing. If your thumb

Dress to impress The entryway to a home is the first thing visitors will see. Be sure the front door and entryway are in good repair. A pop of color canÕt hurt, either. If you do not like the idea of painting the door a vivid hue, dress it

Estelle Sullivan Real Estate Marketplace Estelle Sullivan Realty up with a colorful wreath or another decorative accent. Carry your interior design style to the outdoors as well.

Welcoming accents, such as cushioned chairs or potted plants, also add curb appeal. Consider painting house numbers on a terra-cotta pot and filling it with plants. The pot will be decorative and functional.

CURB | 33

Coffee and doughnuts taste better when you are reading your hometown newspaper

Want To Get

?

Don’t believe it?

Call today and subscribe to the

NEWS

Lake Wales-Frostproof and see for yourself.

863-676-3467

It’s Easy…Just

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is anything but green, hire a professional lawn and garden service to help you establish a lush, green lawn.

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Sun Newspapers Page 33

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Pros and cons to including an island in a kitchen redesign islands have become more convenient.

Although there are many benefits to an island in the kitchen, there are also some disadvantages to kitchen islands. Weighing all the options can help homeowners design a kitchen layout that is functional, affordable and practical for the space they have.

CURB FROM PAGE 32

lighting fixtures, plants, trees, and decorative items really can have an impact.

Rely on symmetry Symmetry is pleasing to the eye and easy to arrange. Use it to frame your entryway and throughout your property. Symmetrical use of

Don’t forget lighting Outdoor lighting adds appeal and safety to a property. Use lighting to accent a special landscaping feature or to illuminate a walkway.

the labor involved in installation may bust some homeowners’ budgets.

Stationary islands can cost several thousand dollars to install, and this is money a homeowner may be better off investing elsewhere.

In smaller kitchens, an island may be impractical because of the space limitation. Islands are typically at the heart of the kitchen and may interfere with walking space or cause clearance issues when the refrigerator door or cabinet doors are open. For homeowners who find space is at a premium in the kitchen, an island may not be the best idea.

However, a rolling island that can be moved into position when needed, then stored in a convenient, out-of-the-way location might be a

Cons Expense is a leading negative factor with regard to a kitchen island. The additional material necessary and

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Pros Arguably the most significant advantage to having a kitchen island is the added space it provides. Many times islands are built with cabinetry that matches the rest of the kitchen design, and those cabinets provide storage space for pots, pans and other kitchen tools. Islands may double the storage space available in the kitchen.

Kitchen islands are also advantageous when preparing meals. Kitchen counter space can be easily gobbled up by toaster ovens, rotisserie cookers, microwaves, coffee makers, and

various other countertop appliances. These appliances can take up valuable real estate that’s sorely missed when preparing meals. An island can be used solely for cooking and preparation, and some homeowners have incorporated cutting boards and a prep sink into the design of the island.

Islands also can be customized according to a homeowner’s needs.

Instead of simply having cabinetry beneath the counter, some opt to have a wine cooler or even a bookshelf for keeping cookbooks within reach. An additional small dishwasher or beverage refrigerator may be tucked into the design of the island. For others, the island may be a makeshift kitchen office space.

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Homeowners planning a kitchen remodel are no doubt considering whether to include a kitchen island in the new design. When the space allows, an island can be a fine way to enhance the look of a kitchen and impart an upscale appeal.

Interest in kitchen islands has grown steadily for the past several decades. Introduced in the 1970s, islands became a popular place for guests to congregate and provided extra counter space for meal preparation and entertaining.

The suburban migration led to bigger homes with larger kitchens. Through the 1980s and 1990s, homes grew even larger, and islands became a popular feature of kitchens across the country.

The increase in foodbased programming on television has also contributed to the popularity of kitchen islands.

As more people dabble with preparing their own gourmet meals, kitchen

Homeowners should question whether a kitchen island is a practicality for their renovation projects. viable option.

Depending on the complexity of a kitchen island, its installation may extend the amount of time required to complete the kitchen renovation. This can prolong the length of time needed to complete the work. Running a gas or electric line and plumbing to the island may

require a major overhaul and demolition.

Kitchen islands are popular components of home designs. Before homeowners engage in any kitchen renovation that may include the incorporation of an island, they should know the advantages and disadvantages.

Page 34 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Itemize, sort, pack and stuff Sunshine Committee packs up supplies for homeless students

By CATHY PALMER Correspondent It was not the usual Monday for some employees of the Polk School District’s Support Services. For some it was itemize, sort, pack and stuff.

It was the last step in the preparations that will help some 138 Polk County high school seniors make it through the summer with enough personal hygiene and daily living supplies.

It was the Support Services Sunshine Committee’s work day to fill duffel bags with items to help these homeless teenagers get through the summer until they either find a job, find a place to live or head to college.

According to Vickie Griffis, who chairs the committee, the seniors are classified as homeless, which really may just mean that their homes may not be permanent; i.e., they may spend some time with one relative or friend, then another and so on, rather than having a fixed place to live.

“Or they could truly be homeless or living

in a car, we just know they don’t have a stable home,’ she said.

To alleviate some concerns for these young people, Griffis and her fellow workers spent Monday sorting items such as toothpaste, deodorant, laundry cleaners, new sheets and towels to fill rolling duffel bags to give to each child.

Monday, there was about $15,000 in items spread around a conference room sorted and ready for packing.

“It takes about $100

per student to fill each bag,” Griffis said.

“These items will help the students live day-to-day as they leave the school system and head out on their own.

We want to send them off with hope and the knowledge that people in this community truly care about them.”

The bags will be given to each of the seniors at a luncheon in their honor later, according to Griffis. She would not release the date or location of the luncheon to protect the privacy of

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Terri Jenks and Vickie Griffis check donated items in a duffel bag to be given to a homeless Polk County high school senior to help them get through the summer.

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Folding towels to go into duffel bags for homeless high school seniors Monday were Lorrie Prince, Latonnja Key, Tammy Charbonneau, Terri Jenks and Joanne Stidham. the students who would be receiving them. Those students unable to attend the luncheon would receive their bags at their schools, she added.

Griffis said the project had received support from numerous sources including school employees, students, retired teachers, churches, professional organizations, civic organizations, retirement communities,

chambers of commerce, government employees and members of the community.

“We were fortunate to get some substantial donations from the First Methodist Church Vanguard Class in Lakeland, the Cypress Gardens Lions Club in Winter Haven, John Stephens Inc., of Fort Meade, the Polk Sheriff’s Charities, the Lord’s

Church at Lake Henry in Winter Haven, and two individuals from Mulberry and Lakeland,” she said. “But gifts came from all over.”

Among those involved in the committee’s efforts besides Griffis, were Cindy Webb, Tammy Charbonneau, Lorrie Prince,Terri Jenks, Ann Hild, Latonnja Key, Angela Bottom and Joanne Stidham.

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Youngsters and police have participated in the event for three years.

Cops and Bobbers set for May 23

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Staff RepoRt Kaylee Schulze, a 17-year-old Lake Wales High School senior, is coordinating Cops and Bobbers for a third year, a community service project that brings kindergarten — 5th grade students together with Lake Wales Police Officers for a morning of shoreline fishing and developing relationships.

The event is scheduled for May 23 from 9 a.m. to noon and will be held at Lake Wailes directly across from the Barranco Field Baseball Complex.

Cops and Bobbers is free to those who participate but is limited to the first 50 applications turned in to Lake Wales Police Department.

A cane pole, hot dog, drink, and t-shirt will be provided to the children who participate.

Children not accompanied by a parent or adult custodian will be required to wear a life vest.

Applications for Cops and Bobbers 2015 can be picked up at the Lake Wales

Police Department, Janie Howard Wilson Elementary School, Hillcrest Elementary School, Spook Hill Elementary School, Polk Avenue Elementary School, and Babson Park Elementary School front offices.

Cops and Bobbers is made possible through support and donations from local businesses. This year’s sponsors include: Lake Wales Police Officers Association, Viking Recycling Inc/Pierre Pancorvo, Pawn$mart, Quality Vaults and Monuments Inc, Lake Wales Medical Center, Lake Wales Charter Schools, and Lake Wales Little League.

“I am thankful for the businesses who continue to generously give to make Cops and Bobbers happen,” Schulza said.

“I look forward to seeing the children and officers coming together again for this event.”

Anyone who has questions about this event should contact Deputy Chief Troy Schulze at 863-678-4223 extension 259.

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Page 36 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 37

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Page 38 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 39

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HOME&

GARDEN

Helping you improve your home Inside and Out

Diggin’ In: Magnificent tulip trees also have a mission

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MCT PHOTO

Tulip tree flower. flowers are young; they are often receptive only for 12 to 24 hours. The plant produces large quantities of nectar for pollinating insects such as flies, beetles, honey bees and bumblebees, but they are not very efficient pollinators and many seeds do not develop. Tulip tree honey is a commercial product.

Tulip trees are long-timers, some having been found to be more than 300 years old, according to Hamilton.

“The flowers grow high

in the canopy and are often seen only from the petals that fall on the pathways,” she says.

“Tulip-shaped, the five petals of each flower are greenish-yellow with orange markings, and in the center there are many yellow-orange stamens and pistils, spirally arranged. The flowers are followed by narrow, upright coneshaped fruit clusters of numerous, winged samaras. These dry fruits are often seen below the trees in early winter, and

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Spring brings out the best in flowering trees, especially native species like purplish-pink redbuds, white dogwoods and sweet bay magnolias, all relatively small trees.

Then, there’s the big daddy tulip tree, which can grow a magnificent 100 feet tall, according to Helen Hamilton, native plant expert and member of the John Clayton Chapter, Virginia Native Plant Society.

“The tallest tree in the forest is often the tulip tree, protruding over the canopy of other trees,” she says.

“It usually grows over 100 feet tall with a trunk diameter of two to three feet, but in rich woods, it can reach nearly 200 feet in height and 10 feet in diameter. The largest trees of this species are in rich woods as in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with trees over 20 feet in circumference. Tulip trees in

Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park are over 120 feet tall with diameters of over five feet.”

Once the tulip tree goes through its juvenile stage and reaches adulthood in 15 to 20 years, it produces eye-catching yellow and white flowers.

Tulip trees grow tall and straight, branching in a conical or pyramidal shape, according to Hamilton.

“In the forest, this tree is easily recognized by the trunk, which is free of branches for the first several feet, and the dark gray bark, often whitened in grooves,” she says.

The tree is unique because no other tree has square-shaped leaves with four to six lobes, according to Hamilton.

The leaves appear before any flowers, and persist through autumn, turning a brilliant yellow by October.

Blooming from April through June, depending on location and weather, the flowering period for each tree is only two to six weeks. Pollination must occur when the

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By KATHY VAN MULLEKOM Daily Press (NewPort News, Va.)

the seeds are eaten by squirrels, rabbits, mice and songbirds.”

Tulip trees thrive in moist, well-drained soils and rich woods throughout the eastern United States to the Mississippi River, and grow wild in every county in Virginia, according to Gustav Hall, professor emeritus, College of William and Mary.

“The tree was introduced into Europe from Virginia by the earliest colonists and is also cultivated on the Pacific Coast,” he says.

“It is often known as tulip-poplar and yellow poplar, and has been referred to as simply ‘poplar,’ but this name properly belongs to cottonwoods and their relatives in the willow family.”

Commercially, the tree is an often-used hardwood with a fine, straight grain that’s easy to work and hard to split, according to Hamilton.

It’s used for furniture, musical instruments and boat interiors, she says.

Several caterpillars,

including locally known moths and butterfly species, love to munch on the leaves of the tulip tree, according to Hamilton.

“Common in our area is the tulip-tree beauty (Epimecis hortaria), an inchworm that develops into a moth with a striking black and white pattern,” she says.

“Inchworms have no legs in the middle of their body, which is why they loop when walking.”

Caterpillars of the eastern tiger swallowtail, (Papilio glaucus) also thrive on tulip tree leaves, according to Adrienne Frank, a Virginia master naturalist with the Historic Rivers Chapter.

“In the early summer of 2013, the population of caterpillars was very high, and as a result the top leaves of many tulip trees were eaten, leaving bare branches showing at the canopy of the trees,” Frank says.

To spot an eastern tiger swallowtail, look

TULIP | 41

Page 40 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HOME & GARDEN

Consumers buying more organic products, new data shows

(AP PHOTO)

Organic body products are seen at a Whole Foods in Washington.

American agriculture, the better off our country’s rural economy will be,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement.

Despite its success, the industry is facing some major challenges, including struggles to source enough organic ingredients. Much of the shortage is in organic milk and eggs, due to low inventories of organic corn and soybeans that feed cattle and poultry.

The industry says there have also been some shortages of fruits and vegetables, which make up the largest sector of the organic market, due to difficulties finding land suitable for organic farming.

Some of the supply issues trace back to cultural issues in highly

agricultural areas, where farmers see organic as an enemy that is disparaging the quality of their conventional product.

Growing organics also means you can’t use as many chemicals like herbicides, which many farmers have grown used to.

The industry is also fighting confusion in the marketplace, with many food packages touting “natural” ingredients — a term the industry

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Consumer interest in the organic label continues to grow.

The organic industry says U.S. sales of its products jumped 11 percent last year alone, to more than $39 billion, despite tight domestic supplies of organic ingredients. And the number of U.S. organic operations has grown by 250 percent since the government started certifying organic products in 2002, according to new Agriculture Department data released Wednesday.

The industry estimates that organics now make up almost 5 percent of total food sales in the United States. But much of the growth is also in nonfood items like textiles and personal care items. The Organic Trade Association says those nonfood sales jumped almost 14 percent last year and totaled more than $3 billion.

The industry has been rapidly growing since the United States put strict rules in place for organic labeling 13 years ago — some critics say growing

too much, as food giants like General Mills and Kellogg have entered the organic game and many small organic food companies have grown into large businesses.

Laura Batcha, head of the trade association, says that growth has helped the industry move beyond a niche market.

“The only way to create change is for there to be widespread adoption,” Batcha said.

Organic foods generally are grown with fewer chemicals and artificial ingredients and are produced according to a strict set of government standards. Foods cannot be labeled organic unless their production adheres to those rules, and those extra steps mean prices for organic products are generally higher.

USDA said the number of organic operations grew 5 percent last year and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced it will create a new database so consumers can track companies’ organic certifications.

“The more diverse type of operations and the more growing market sectors we have in

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By MARY CLARE JALONICK AssociAted Press

believes consumers confuse with organic.

To combat that, organic producers are pursuing an industry-funded Agriculture Department “checkoff” campaign — think the milk industry’s “Got Milk?” ads — to promote itself and make those distinctions.

The Organic Trade Association data released Wednesday show sales growth in all areas of the country. But the strongest sales remain

in the Northeast and on the West Coast, and 73 percent of organic buyers are white. Just 16 percent of those who buy organic are Hispanic and 14 percent are black.

The trade group says sales among minorities have jumped sharply, and note the breakdown closely resembles the demographics of the United States.

“Our survey shows organic has turned a corner,” said OTA’s Batcha.

Sun Newspapers Page 41

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HOME & GARDEN

Solutions for reclaiming the space in your garage Do you have an impressive front entry door but you prefer to enter and leave your home through the garage?

If so, you’re not alone.

A recent survey of 1,000 adults living in homes with remote-controlled garage doors found that more than 80 percent use their garage as the main entrance.

But the garage is usually ignored when it comes to making it an appealing spot you want to come home to.

“You don’t want the main entryway to be the worst-looking room in the house,” said Jim Melchert, owner of Garage Store in East Dundee, Ill. Clear the room. It’s time to restore order by stowing away all those toys, garden supplies and stacks of holiday bins.

There’s no need to sell your car to make space, though. Modular systems and other storage products that suit your budget make organizing garage space a snap.

For example, with Gladiator GarageWorks storage solutions, you can spend $10,000 or more for a complete makeover or you can start with a simple component, such as the GearTrack Pack, strips that run horizontally on a wall and hold various

TULIP FROM PAGE 39

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for males that are yellow with dark “tiger” stripes, according to Brian Taber, president of the Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory. Females have two forms: one yellow like the male and the other black with shadows of dark stripes.

tools. It costs less than $25 for 8 linear feet.

That flexibility is a plus: You don’t have to do an entire wall, just what you need. Put one or two strips on a garage wall, add any of the various hooks available, and garden tools, shovels, hoses and other bits of paraphernalia can hang neatly organized and within easy reach.

Another advantage: The hooks are adjustable, so the positioning of items is flexible as you add to your rake collection.

In addition to the hooks, Gladiator GarageWorks offers metal or mesh baskets that hang on the wall for frequently used items.

If you want a cleaner look, consider lockers and cabinets that keep clutter out of sight and, more importantly, out of your home closets. The cabinets come in silver or red with a tread plate door design - that’s a real garage look - or in white for a more modern, clean appearance. They also mount on walls or can be free-standing, with rollers to ease mobility.

Although garages were designed for storage, some homeowners have taken this concept to the extreme. The spaces have become convenient dumping grounds for boxes of clothing or toys.

You can only stack boxes so high before they tip over; a damp floor can

damage their contents.

A solution is a quality shelving unit that gets the items off the floor and out of the way.

Brackets can be attached to the rafters, and shelving units can be installed to accommodate plastic totes of seldom-used items.

Express your personality. Lest you think a garage storage system might look too generic or industrial, there is room for individuality.

PrimeTime lockers are available in various team logos and big enough to accommodate hockey sticks.

Give an ordinary concrete floor a polished finish with stylish materials.

For a flashy industrial look that blends in with other components, diamond metallic flooring is an option. It’s available in a peel-and-stick tile version from Raceday or can be purchased in large sizes, such as 10 feet by 22 feet, from various manufacturers.

Other floor options include a durable epoxy coating or rubberized vinyl floor mats by Better Life Technology in several colors and designs.

Then there are the small touches that make a garage homey. Every garage needs a fridge, but standard kitchen refrigerators aren’t engineered to withstand the temperature

Both female forms have a row of blue and yellow chevrons (lines or stripes in the shape of a V) and an iridescent blue wash over parts of the interior hind wing, he explains.

The butterflies reproduce two or three times during the season, which is why you see them in early spring, according to Hamilton. Each female lays a single egg on host plant leaves. As they

develop, caterpillars eat the leaves and rest on silken mats on the upper surface of leaves. They overwinter as chrysalis.

Other host plants for these butterflies are wild cherry, sweet bay magnolia, willow and birch.

Adults feed on the nectar of flowers from a variety of plants, including wild cherry, milkweeds and Joe-pye weed, says Hamilton.

fluctuations in garages.

A solution is Whirlpool’s Chillerator stainless-steel refrigerator. It’s made to run at peak performance in extreme temperatures, and it uses less energy than a 40-watt light bulb.

Throw in a sound system and a comfy chair, and you might be spending less time in the house.

“You can do anything with a garage,” Melchert said. “If you’re into automotive, camping,

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By WILLIAM HAGEMAN ChiCago Tribune

MCT PHOTO

Garage organization is easy with the right storage solutions. sporting events, there’s accessories that let you flexibility with the build a garage to fit your wall system and wall lifestyle.”

Page 42 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

PASSION for PETS

Spring is in the air: Watch your pet can progressively worsen with time and end up being year round. The most commonly affected areas on a dog include ears, face (particularly around the eyes), paws, underarms, and groin.

Serologic allergy testing may be performed by taking a blood sample to see what specific allergens are leading to the itch. The blood is tested for the presence of IgE antibodies against specific allergens. If it contains a high number of these IgE antibodies, an allergy is presumed to exist. Intradermal testing, whereby small amounts of test allergens are injected in the skin and wheal (a red bump) response is measured, may also be used to identify the specific allergen. This type of testing is more

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Pet Vet

can also aid in decreasing the itch. In addition, certain omega 3 fatty acids (or fish oils) and prescription diets may provide some relief for many pets with allergic skin disease. Antibiotics may also be required as secondary bacterial skin infection is often noted in pets that are constantly licking, chewing, scratching.

Unfortunately, these products treat only the clinical signs, not the underlying allergy.

Seventy-five percent of my patients are dealing with atopic dermatitis; some with just a mild itch and others with hair loss, ear infections, and crusts all over the skin.

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Dr. Cori Murphy

commonly performed at specialty dermatology veterinary hospitals.

Once specific allergens have been determined, it may be possible to desensitize the pet to these offending allergens.

A specific allergy serum is produced according to the results of the allergy tests and is either given in a series of shots or as a liquid preparation under the tongue. The principle behind desensitization or hyposensitization is that the controlled amounts of offending allergens will “reprogram” the pet’s immune system and lessen its clinical response to that allergen. For about half of the treated pets, hyposensitization will result in significantly reduced itching and secondary skin disease.

If allergy testing and hyposensitization cannot be performed or does not improve the pet, then anti-inflammatory drugs including corticosteroids and antihistamines will often bring relief from itching. An oral form of the drug cyclosporine

PHOTO PROVIDED

Florida’s allergy season is longer and stronger than most of the United States. So, as we are all wheezing, sneezing and sniffling, dogs are scratching, licking and chewing at their skin.

Allergies can make your pet miserable. As with us, pets have to live with allergies and will never be 100 percent cured but lots can be done to help

improve their quality of life.

Please be sure to see a Veterinarian to discuss your options if your pet has itchy skin.

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Spring in Florida is full of sun and beautiful, warm weather. It’s the perfect season to be outside. Unfortunately, it’s also the perfect season for allergen-producing foliage and pollens.

Florida’s allergy season is longer and stronger than most of the United States. So, as we are all wheezing, sneezing and sniffling, dogs are scratching, licking and chewing at their skin.

Allergies in animals is termed Atopic Dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease brought on by normally harmless substances like grass, mold spores, house dust mites and other environmental allergens. Dogs normally show signs of the disease between six months and six years of age, though atopic dermatitis can be so mild the first year that it is not clinically apparent. Often symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis are more apparent during certain seasons of the year but

Sun Newspapers Page 43

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Free Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s event at Bok Tower

By LARRY GRIFFIN Correspondent Caregivers for those with Alzheimer’s rarely get the acclaim they deserve. The Bok Tower Gardens is aiming to fix that with their yearly Caregiver’s Day event, taking place on Wednesday, May 13.

Taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bok Tower Gardens, Caregiver’s Day is a free event for caregivers and their patients. The day is planned as a relaxing and a nature get-away for persons and families living with Alzheimer’s disease or other related disorders.

Program specialist Chris Wilcox of

the Florida Gulf Coast chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, said the event is important for the morale of caregivers. Alzheimer’s and dementia, he said, are tough not only for the one suffering but for the caregivers who feel the pain their loved ones are going through.

“I hate to say they are thankless jobs,” he said.

“But as a caregiver, you don’t get many pats on the back, unless you work in a professional field for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.

It’s one of the things that drives their high rates of depression and dementia, and they can’t talk about it

unless they come to a support group.”

Wilcox also stressed that sometimes caregivers don’t have much of a support system – sometimes, he said, it is just the caregiver and their loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia alone in a house.

Bok Tower Gardens Director of Marketing and Public Relations

Brian Ososky said caregivers “don’t always have time to enjoy themselves as much as they’d like.

This is our way of giving back,” he said.

“It’s a good way for us to be able to give them something,” Wilcox said.

“They are trying to carve out time in their day to get themselves refreshed.

It might be something to give an opportunity to take their loved one to

the garden to get some peace and quiet.”

The event will feature two scheduled guided tours of the gardens, scheduled recorded carillon concerts and a special “Lunch and Learn” where guests will learn about container gardening basics, according to a press release about the event.

Every caregiver who attends the event will

receive a one-year free pass to the Gardens, according to Ososky. There will also be a raffle in the afternoon where guests will have the chance to win more prizes.

Membership at Bok Tower Gardens also allows members to visit other gardens and horticultural locations around the state and the country. For information on that, visit http://boktowergardens.org/.

The event does not require reservations.

Guests should mention they are there for the Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver’s Day event at the gates to be let in for free for the event.

For more information, call 863-676-1408.

‘Achy, Breaky Heart’

Is divorce (literally) breaking your heart?

By BOB MASSEY

Feeling Fit Correspondent Divorced people already have to deal with figurative heartbreak, but a recent study reveals they may have to be concerned about literal heartbreak as well.

In an article titled “Association Between Divorce and Risks for Acute Myocardial Infarction,” published online (ahead of print) in the medical journal Circulation, researchers Matthew E. Dupre, Linda K. George, Guangya Liu and Dr. Eric D. Peterson discovered a link between divorce and heart disease.

And women are especially at risk.

Previous research has already documented that divorced women tend to have poorer health, but the recent study suggests they are also at a greater risk of heart attack.

According to the abstract, “divorce is a major life stressor that can have economic, emotional and physical health consequences. However, the cumulative association between divorce and risks for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is unknown.”

But in the wake of the study — which involved more than 15,000 adults between the ages of 45 to 80 who had been married at least once, with their cardiac conditions followed from 1992 to 2010 — researchers concluded “divorce is a significant risk factor for AMI. The risks associated with multiple divorces are especially high in women and are not reduced with remarriage.”

Only with men does remarriage reverse the risk for men. And women who have been divorced at least twice develop a heart attack risk similar to that of having diabetes or high blood pressure.

When the study began, 14 percent of men and 19 percent of women were divorced. By its conclusion 18 years later, more than a third of the subjects had divorced at least once. During that time,

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While women who had weathered one divorce were 24 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack than those who had stayed married, women who had divorced at least twice showed that statistic jump to 77 percent. And women who remarried were 35 percent more likely to have a heart attack. In contrast, men had to be divorced twice or more for the risk to increase.

1,211 people suffered a heart attack — an event which was more likely to occur to those who had been divorced.

While women who had weathered one divorce were 24 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack than those who had stayed married, women who had divorced at least twice showed that statistic jump to 77 percent. And women who remarried were 35 percent more likely to have a heart attack. In contrast, men had to be divorced twice or more for the risk to increase.

However, there is a hopeful side, according to cardiologist Dr. Jaimela Dulaney.

“When you say divorced people have more heart attacks, well, sure, there’s less

stability in their life,” she said. “But it also may lead to a poor diet, so there’s a whole host of factors that may go into why divorced people do worse than married people. On the other hand, if they got out of an abusive relationship and were very active in their community, maybe they would do better. So you can’t really pigeonhole people. You might make people feel maybe not so good if you say if you get divorced, you’re going to die of a heart attack.”

Dulaney offers an alternative to the bad news.

“I think the biggest thing people need to know is that heart disease is entirely preventable,” she said. “It’s a lifestyle disease, just like high blood pressure

is a lifestyle disease, high cholesterol, diabetes.”

Dulaney practices what she preaches.

She is a triathlete and competes in several marathon runs each year. In 2013, she completed her first Ironman Florida.

“There’s a tremendous amount of evidence that you can prevent or even reverse heart disease through a plantbased diet,” she said. “That would be a whole foods, plant-based, no-oil-added diet. You can eat any vegetables, fruits, whole grains, but no animal products.”

Dulaney is also a co-organizer and frequent contributor to Charlotte County Plant Based Foodies, which meets monthly to offer education and support for a plant-based, no-added-oil lifestyle.

“Certainly people who are in a good relationship do better than people who are not in a good relationship,” she said.

“That has certainly been shown if you look at the “Blue Zones.” That’s from a book published by National Geographic where they looked at places in the world that had the most people who live to more than 100, and they looked at what characteristics these people had in common.”

One of those factors was a supportive relationship, Dulaney said, where people tend to the needs of their own family members, and the family unit was kept intact. People also tended to spend time outdoors, they were active and they ate a largely plant-based diet — mainly vegetables.

Dulaney dismisses the notion that statistics mean heart disease is inevitable.

“It doesn’t have to happen,” she said, “but because of the standard American diet, it’s taken for granted that most people over 55 — one in two people — will develop heart disease. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We have to choose better as far as our nutrition.”

Page 44 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HEALTH and WELLNESS

Road to recovery

By LAURA ALBRECHT Correspondent At 3 am on Feb. 19, 2013, Garrett Putnam was taking a quiet ride home from his best friend’s house. At the wheel of his trusty Camaro, he felt safe.

The road seemed even safer. After all, that time of the morning you could play baseball on U.S. 98 without an errant car rushing any plays.

Little did he know that he would not have a home run. At 100 miles per hour, a wayward car driven by the influences of drugs and alcohol rear-ended his vehicle.

His car crumpled like paper and he was crushed inside. The hit and run driver was nowhere to be found.

Hours later he awoke in a hospital bed and wondered why his arms and legs wouldn’t work.

Days later he was told about his neck fractures and the alarming new rules governing his 22 year old body.

Putnam said, “Life as I knew it, ended that morning.”

As he lay in bed, he could only venture a guess of the future. It was a vulnerable time and made apparent by a pesky mosquito that landed on his forehead.

He couldn’t swat it away.

“All I could do was shrug my shoulders.”

Finally, he puckered his lips and blew upward to offset the landed pest.

Eventually, his hospital bed became a sponge and soaked up his strength and weight.

He lost 60 pounds in six weeks and endured physical rehabilitation hundreds of miles away from his family.

Emotional rehabilitation was akin to a David and Goliath battle. He could have easily bought into a victim’s mentality or succumbed to the harsh realities. Instead, he took a less traveled path that led to a steely inner strength and the kind of character that is restless unless he’s giving

back to others.

Clarity came when he progressed in therapy.

“When I was able to reach out with my hand and arm towards someone I love, I knew I was going to be all right,” said Putnam. He notes that up till that moment he felt like he couldn’t fully participate, or couldn’t help anyone else.

Being able to give back to others is priceless to Putnam. When he sees someone in need, he’s the first responder and tells others that they’re not alone and encourages them to “reach down deep for the fight within.”

Putnam calls his therapists at Spring Lake Rehabilitation family, and the rehab team reports that Putnam has true grit and it shines brightest during struggles to overcome paralysis. With ninja-like qualities, he’s honing newfound skills in the pool.

With water exercises, Putnam’s strength and

movement is maximized when weight and gravity are greatly reduced.

Aquatic therapy is also less fatiguing and allows progress to his utmost ability.

Therapists customize water force and current.

The rippling of water assists movement and becomes a lure for strength. As he floats on top of the water, he experiences control and mindful placing of hand and arm.

Tiny flickering of muscle that is facilitated by water eventually lead to more function, strength, and substance – it’s the kind of substance that allows him to reach out even further to others.

Louisa Banniza is Putnam’s mother and says she is proud of her son for triumphing through the pain and pushing himself towards recovery.

Putnam paves a path that many will not experience. His outcomes in therapy and his personal life journey show that

PHOTO PROVIDED

Daniel Sherman, helps Garrett Putnam at Spring Lake Rehab Center. Also helping in the photo is Elsie Miller. one of the greatest human traits is finding the light at the end of the tunnel and naturally becoming a light for all others.

Spring Lake Rehabilitation Center

offers comprehensive rehabilitative outpatient and inpatient services for short or long term at 1540 6th Street N.W., Winter Haven, Florida, 33881. For more information, call 863-294-3055.

Learn about how to save on Medicare costs

On average, beneficiaries spend $38,688 out-of-pocket toward medical assistance during the last five years of life. Medicare does cover a large amount of health care expenses for beneficiaries, but it does not cover everything.

There are programs that could lower your Medicare costs.

The Low Income Subsidy Program and the Medicare Savings Program have proven to be very helpful for eligible beneficiaries, the SHINE program reports.

The LIS Program provides “Extra Help” with annual deductibles, prescription co-payments, and monthly premiums for Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.

The MSP Program provides different levels of assistance for Medicare Part A and/or B premiums, deductibles, and co-payments depending on your eligibility. If you are not sure of whether you qualify for any financial assistance with your plans, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs’ SHINE – Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders – Program can help.

Counselors can meet with clients face-to-face or over the telephone to help them apply for the valuable programs described above. The SHINE Program helps

current and prospective Medicare beneficiaries understand their options.

SHINE volunteers are trained to offer free, unbiased, and confidential information and counseling concerning Medicare.

All current and soonto-be Medicare beneficiaries are welcome to schedule appointments to speak with a counselor over the phone or during a face-to-face session.

This program is locally managed by the Senior Connection Center Inc., serving Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Polk counties. Appointments can be made by contacting the Elder Helpline at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800963-5337). For more information, you may also visit online at www. floridashine.org.

in Brooklyn, N.Y. from which she also obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2000.

She worked as a medical-surgical nurse, caring for acuted and chronically ill patients in a magnet hospital in New York for six years before coming to Central Florida working as an intensive care nurse for the last 13 years. In 2014, she completed her Masters of Science degree in Nursing at South University in Tampa.

She is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Association of Critical Care Nurses, Florida Nurse Practitioner Network, Florida Coalition of Advance Practice Nurses and Sigma Theta Thu International Honor Society of Nursing.

Ballintine joins Lake Wales Family Practice Licensed registered nurse Mitzie Elizabeth Ballintine joined Dr. James Nelson in his practice at the Lake Wales Family Practice.

Ballintine is board certified in family medicine by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

She began her career after graduating in 1996 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing from Medgar Evers College of Nursing

Two new nurses hired at Watson Watson Clinic is pleased to welcome two of the latest additions to our expert team of nurse practitioners.

Tara Calise, ARNP-C, joins internal medicine specialist Dr. Manish Parekh at the Tara Calise Plant City location, while Georgette Farmer, ARNP-C, will assist in the treatment of patients for internal

medicine specialist Dr. Stephen G. Swengros and family medicine Georgette physician Dr. Brett Farmer J. Widick.

The contributions of both of these medical professionals will ensure personalized and attentive care, as well as enhanced appointment availability.

Calise received her Bachelor’s of Nursing Science degree at the University of South Florida in Tampa, where she also earned her Master’s of Science as a family nurse practitioner.

Her areas of expertise include general primary care services and weight loss counsel and management.

Farmer received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Florida International University in Miami, Fla., and her Master’s of Science nursing degree from the University of Cincinnati in Ohio. Over the years, she has worked for Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami and Brandon Regional Hospital in Brandon, Fla. Farmer’s areas of expertise include diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia management, pap smears and gerontology.

For information on the

PHOTO PROVIDED

Roger Hause (left) is pictured in the attached photo receiving his PEER award plaque from Watson Clinic’s Chief Administrative Officer Stan Piotrowski (right). impressive credentials he is a very hard worker, of Calise, Farmer and a great role model and additional members of very committed to the Watson Clinic’s physician Clinic. As a PEER award and provider team, visit winner, the business said www.WatsonClinic.com. in a press release. Hause received a plaque, dinner Watson Clinic names at a local restaurant, a PEER award winner reserved parking spot Roger Hause was and a free service from named the April PEER Watson Clinic’s Bella Award winner from Vista Spa to acknowledge Watson Clinic. his contributions to the He is from the organization.

Facilities Department.

The PEER Award is Hause has been with the given to a Clinic employClinic for 20 years and is ee who best reflects the currently a Coordinator/ patient-focused customSupervisor. While he er service standards that is known for having a Watson Clinic strives to quiet way about him, excel at every day. everyone realizes that

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Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sun Newspapers Page 45

Page 46 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HEALTH and WELLNESS

Mold and mildew exposure can have consequences DEAR DR. ROACH: I lived in southwest Florida for 13 years and was exposed to heavy mold and mildew due to heat and humidity from a leaky roof.

About a year ago, I gradually became quite ill — fatigue, weakness, irritable bowel symptoms, insomnia and symptoms of a urinary tract infection.

Six months ago, I moved out and have slowly regained my health, with the exception of the UTI symptoms and insomnia. Could the mold and mildew exposure have caused my symptoms?

— I.L. ANSWER: The adverse health effects of exposure to molds, a subset of fungi, are a frequent cause of concern.

There are some health effects that are very well accepted, and some that are controversial.

Although people with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to the effects of mold exposure, even healthy people can be infected with certain pathogenic species.

The majority of molds do not infect healthy people, but they can cause symptoms without infection, and those symptoms can be serious. Infection or not, in some cases, it is the body’s overaggressive response that causes more problems than the actual germs.

One example, which I believe may

Dr. Keith Roach To Your Good Health Readers may write Dr. Roach at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475 the case with you, is hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

In this condition, it is the immune response to the offending agent, such as a mold, that is responsible for the symptoms rather than growth of the mold itself. The most common symptoms of hypersensitivity pneumonitis include cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.

When cough and shortness of breath are not prominent, the disease can be very hard to diagnose. Given your history, with the benefit of hindsight, I think that you may very well have had a sensitivity to the mold in your home.

Urinary symptoms and insomnia are not common symptoms of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and the fact that they haven’t gotten better when the rest of the symptoms did suggests that the mold wasn’t responsible. Other

symptoms, including chronic sinus inflammation, immunodeficiencies and neurologic symptoms have been reported, but are not accepted by most authorities as commonly caused by molds.

DEAR DR. ROACH: At my most recent physical, my general practitioner told me that because I am now 81 years old, he would no longer order mammograms or colonoscopies, which I have been regularly getting. I’ve never had any abnormalities in the breasts, but have had some benign polyps on colonoscopies. My father died at 83 of a heart attack and my mother at 95 of kidney cancer. I am not at ease with discontinuing these tests. — M.L.W. ANSWER: I believe that individuals have the right to weigh in on the decisions affecting their health. There are occasionally times that doctors and patients will disagree, and times when it’s appropriate for a doctor to push back against a decision the patient is making that he or she feels isn’t the right one for the patient’s health.

This is a time when reasonable people can disagree, and when patient preferences are critical. I wouldn’t recommend a colonoscopy for most 81-year-olds, but it is reasonable to consider in an exceptionally healthy

one, provided she understands the risks, especially of damage done by the colonoscopy. Neither a colonoscopy nor a mammogram makes sense for people whose life expectancy is short, but based on your family history, you may still benefit from these procedures.

It’s time to have a frank discussion with your doctor, and have him explain why he has made this ultimatum, which is certain to put stress into your relationship.

Questions about breast cancer and its treatment are found in the booklet on that subject. To obtain a copy, write: Dr. Roach — No. 1101, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Can. with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Health newsletters may be ordered from www. rbmamall.com.

Bald but plucky WELL NEWS Scott LaFee

cholesterol (7 percent), 820 milligrams of sodium (34 percent), 28 grams of total carbohydrates (9 percent), 4 grams of dietary fiber (16 percent), 5 grams of

follicles that it’s time to grow hair.

Body of Knowledge In the brain, serotonin is a neurotransmitter critical to regulating mood, appetite and sleep. It also has a role in cognitive functions such as memory and learning. But most of the serotonin in your body – 90 percent – resides in your gut, where it is used to regulate intestinal movements.

And according to new animal studies, serotonin production relies not so much on you as it does certain bacteria interacting with the body’s enterochromaffin cells.

Number Cruncher A Starbucks low-fat turkey bacon breakfast sandwich (100 grams) contains 230 calories, 54 from fat. It has 6 grams of total fat, or 9 percent of the recommended total fat intake for a 2,000-calorie daily diet, according to the Calorie Count database.

It also contains 20 milligrams of

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It seems a kind of hearsay (hair-say?), but researchers at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California have found that by tweezing out 200 hairs in a specific pattern and density, they can induce up to 1,200 replacement hairs to grow in a mouse.

It was already well-known that injury to a hair follicle affects its neighbors.

The USC scientists wondered whether the loss of a hair might stimulate surrounding follicles to become more active. (At any given time, only a percentage of follicles are actively growing hair; the rest lie temporarily dormant.)

To test their hypothesis, they plucked 200 hair follicles, one by one, from the backs of mice in different configurations. When plucking was conducted in a low-density pattern over a larger region, no hairs regenerated. However, higher-density plucking in a smaller area triggered the regeneration of between 450 and 1,200 hairs, including ones outside the plucked region.

The researchers discovered that the plucked follicles release inflammatory proteins signaling distress, which recruit immune cells to the site. The immune cells secrete molecules that inform both plucked and unplucked

sugar and 13 grams of protein.

To find out more about Scott LaFee is distributed by Creators Syndicate

Sun Newspapers Page 47

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

HEALTH and WELLNESS

Wish of a lifetime granted PORT CHARLOTTE — After suffering three strokes, doctors told Barbara Heater she would never walk again.

But a young physical therapist in a Sterling House Assisted Living facility in Piqua, Ohio, had other ideas. She began working with Heater regularly until one day, she advised Heater’s daughter, Jenny Green, to bring in her mother’s wheeled walker.

“Her doctors had told us it was too dangerous for her, and never to get it out again,” Green replied. But the therapist insisted her patient was ready. And, sure enough, she was.

“I didn’t much like the idea of being in a wheelchair,” Heater explained, so she was determined to persevere and walk again.

Now living in Brookdale Senior Living (formerly Sterling House) in Port Charlotte, the

P H OTO

BY BARBARA BEAN-MELLINGER

Barbara Heater, a resident of Brookdale Port Charlotte, recently had a book of her poems published through a Wish of a Lifetime grant.

93-year-old has achieved another feat others only dream about.

She has published a book of poems. Written over a nearly 30-year period, from the 1970s to 2001, “Angst vs. Joy” showcases her poems on, just as the title suggests, the ups and downs in her life.

“When my husband was ill with Alzheimer’s, the writing was my

therapy, I guess,” Heater said. Sometimes she wrote to get her emotions out after having an argument. “I never told anyone about the poems, though.”

That is, until Brookdale’s staff mentioned Wish of a Lifetime.

The nonprofit organization considers the wishes of seniors for possible grants.

Brookdale partners with the group and stays alert for residents who may have a wish that could be granted.

After approving the application for Heater’s wish, the organization found a publisher.

They worked back and forth, sending Heater cover choices and two samples of the book to see what she preferred.

The finished product is a large, hardback with one poem per page, printed large enough to be read easily.

Heater dedicated “Angst vs. Joy” to her great-grandfather, Isiah Adderley. He may have

Water safety tips for the summer

By NATALIE SPINDLE

Water Proof Florida encourages layers of protection that The weather is heating include supervision, up. For many Floridians, barriers and emergency preparedness. this means it’s time to Here are a few tips to cool off in the pool.

While a day of playing ensure the safety of you and your loved ones this in the pool can be fun, pool season: injuries and illnesses • Do not swim when due to water-related activities increase during you have diarrhea, and make sure you take this time of year. bathroom breaks every “Simple precautions 60 minutes. can keep friends and • Shower with soap befamily stay safe in and fore you start swimming, around pools, beaches and take rinse showers and lakes,” said State every time you get back Surgeon General and into the water.

Secretary of Health Dr. • Wash your hands afJohn Armstrong. “By being watchful together, ter visiting the bathroom or changing diapers. we can keep the fun Parents should take in water activities for children on bathroom everyone.” breaks every 60 minutes Pool safety is everyand check diapers every one’s responsibility.

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department oF HealtH

inspired her, she said, because most times the words just flowed from her mind to the page, sometimes producing words she didn’t even know and had to look up in the dictionary.

Many of Heater’s poems are about people.

“Barbie,” for example, is about her namesake granddaughter. One entitled “Camille” is about her good friend’s loss of her husband. Another is about their dog, “Sam,” and some recount places she visited on a trip to Scotland.

Though she can’t choose a favorite, one that’s among her top choices is “A Pig’s Nest at Grandma’s House.”

The result of pleasant reminiscing, the poem describes the cozy feeling she got when it was time to make her nest in Grandma’s room.

The book also shows the many phases and stages people go through in a lifetime. A few of the poems are about God, written during a particularly religious phase. Others have to do with gratitude and thankfulness.

30–60 minutes.

• Don’t swallow the water you swim in.

Particularly for children with disabilities, adult supervision is imperative. According to the National Autism Association, accidental drowning accounted for 91 percent of the total U.S. deaths reported in children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder ages 14 and younger from 2009-2011.

Safe Kids Worldwide, a global organization dedicated to preventing injuries in children, offers a video that addresses water safety for children with special needs.

For more information, visit www.floridahealth. gov.

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By Barbara Bean-Mellinger

Feeling Fit Correspondent

POETIC SAMPLES “A Pig’s Nest at Grandma’s House” — By Barbara Heater It was my very favorite place to stay Now you may wonder what made it that way We never went there before sunset After all the lamps were lit The grownups all sitting round the stove reminiscing When Auntie would say, ‘Come child, time for pigs nesting’ We’d climb the stairs to Grandma’s room And into bed that soon One poem is dedicated to Heater’s adoptive parents as a thank you for the good life they gave her. The youngest of seven children in Detroit, Heater’s mother died when she was just a year old. While her father was able to keep the two oldest, he had to find homes for the others.

That’s how Heater came to live in Piqua, Ohio, with a couple that were neighbors of her grandmother, who was too ill to take the children.

When asked about the changes she has seen during her lifetime,

For here was my pig’s nest Soft feathers, old quilts An angel never found a better rest Than here in Grandma’s pig’s nest.

“Grow Old with Me” — By Barbara Heater The sunset years are full of pain Yet why complain We ache and we twinge No desire for a binge I’m much slower Still the eyes can glower Many memories we’ve shared I wonder how much you cared.

The children all grown Each in her own home Seems life is most through But I love you. the invention of the automobile stands out.

Her family didn’t get one until she was out of high school and could drive it. They didn’t have turn signals back then, she said, and she wished she’d been the one to invent them, she added with a smile.

Now she has the experiences of a lifetime all wrapped up in one place: her newly published book of poetry.

For a $15 copy of “Angst vs. Joy” by Barbara Heater, contact Kim at Brookdale Port Charlotte at 941-743-9300.

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Page 48 Sun Newspapers

Wednesday, May 6, 2015