Winter Haven Magazine 2015

FAMILY PRACTICE Gordon J. RafooI, M.D. Ronald A. Ford, M.D. Richard K. LaCalamito, D.O. David Lipschitz, D.O. Sarah J. Oven, M.D. Mary R. De Sena, M.D. Garrison F. Christian, M.D. Tristan M. Harrison, M.D.

INTERNAL MEDICINE Alan G. Gasner, M.D. Yoshana Rajaratnam, M.D. Elizabeth H. Griffin, M.D. Kyle M. Pochcial, M.D. Michael L. Keown, M.D.

GASTROENTEROLOGY Mark W. Shabla, M.D COLON & RECTAL SURGERY Richard J. Honer, M.D.

ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY GENERAL & VASCULAR SURGERY ADULT & PEDIATRIC David K. Speyerer, M.D. Maria J. Pochcial, M.D. W. P. Aronski, M.D. HOSPITALIST Aleixo M. Viegas, M.D. RHEUMATOLOGY Maurice F. McCarthy, Jr., M.D. Ada Lopez-Mendez, M.D. CARDIOLOGY Randall B. Kramer, MD. ENDOCRINOLOGY Brian M. Lake, D.O.

DERMATOLOGY Roya Ghorsriz, D.O. GYNECOLOGY Peter S. Verrill, M.D. Jean-Paul Muller, M.D. OBSTETRICS GYNECOLOGY J. Anthony Mancini, M.D. Lisa M. Jardine, M.D. Edna Pierre-Louis, M.D. Zaira J. Moreno, M.D.

Compassionate care, Inspired medicine 635 First Street, N., Winter Haven • 863-294-0670 Visit our website at: gesslerclinic.com

2 Winter Haven Magazine

OPHTHALMOLOGY OPHTHALMIC PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY John J. McGetrick, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY Patrick D. Sullivan, M.D.

UROLOGY Mathew Oommen, M.D. PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS Victoria Harrison, P.A.-C Laura Ann Woznicki, P.A.-C

NURSE PRACTITIONER OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY J. Melissa Steven, ARNP Laura Linton, MS, NP-C James A. Martin, M.D. PAIN MANAGEMENT & PAIN MEDICINE Edward Lubin, M.D., Ph.D. PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Richard F. Radocha, M.D. PODIATRY Jorge L. Dopico, D.P.M. PULMONOLOGY & CRITICAL CARE Jose I. Martinez-Salas, M.D. George F. Torres, M.D.

Welcome to

Winter Haven

Winter Haven has many meanings to many people. For some, it’s as literal as it sounds… we’re the perfect retreat from the harsh winter months up North. To others, Winter Haven means living the lakeside lifestyle, with over 55 lakes to ski, wakeboard, paddleboard, kayak or simply watch the vibrant orange and pink sunsets from the dock while sipping on a cocktail. To children, or even just the child within, Winter Haven is home to the most beautiful, entertaining and interactive theme park in the world, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. And yet to others, Winter Haven is the future of economic development with the recent addition of the CSX Intermodal Logistics Center, the home of the high speed internet network Florida Lamda Rail, the Advanced Technology Center at Polk State College and the state’s newest STEM-focused public university, Florida Polytechnic University, just 12 miles away.

From parks and trails to run and cycle, to hundreds of events and musical performances, to entrepreneurs, to a charmingly enterprising downtown business and shopping district, Winter Haven can truly become the ‘something for everyone’ destination to visit, work, play and stay.

Dive right into the pages of this magazine for much of the information you need to explore, visit, work or live in the greater Winter Haven area.

Winter Haven Magazine 3

Table of Contents

About Winter Haven 4 History . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The Place to Be . . . . . 7 Business Resources. . 8 Things to Do . . . . . . . 10 Arts and Culture . . . 14 Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Worship . . . . . . . . . 19 Eat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Stay . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 21 Live & Retire . . . . . . 22 Events . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Learn . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 City Hall . . . . . . . . . 28 Healthcare . . . . . . . 30 Important Numbers 33 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

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Winter Haven Magazine is published by the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. Established as the board of trade in 1910, we have served the Winter Haven area for over 100 years.

401 Ave B NW Winter Haven, FL 33881 863-293-2138 Lobby Hours Mon-Fri 9 AM - 4 PM info@winterhavenchamber.com

winterhavenchamber.com

Advancing Commerce & Community through Serving, Representing & Enhancing Business Growth

4 Winter Haven Magazine

It’s Your Winter Haven

We know we are a tad bit biased, but Winter Haven really is the perfect place to visit, live, work, play and raise a family. With a population within the city limits of just over 37,000 and approximately 75,000 people in the “greater” area, we have the benefit of the authenticity of a small hometown community, with an economy built on small business and entrepreneurs, as well as larger industry partners and a rapidly growing medical and technology center in our downtown business district. With job opportunities, lakeside lifestyle, numerous higher educational opportunities, a vibrant music, theatre and arts culture and the most welcoming citizens in Central Florida, why wouldn’t you want to make Winter Haven a part of your vacation or your permanent home?

Winter Haven is almost directly in the middle of the state, located about 45 minutes in either direction from Tampa and Orlando and just an hour and half from some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.

Residents enjoy lower cost of living, but don’t have to travel far for the most popular vacation destinations and restaurants in the world . . . but you’ll find there is a lot to do and see right here in Winter

Haven including LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Our natural beauty includes over fifty-five lakes— many of them canal connected— making us the “Chain of Lakes City” and allowing countless hours of boating, fishing, water skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking and wakeboarding. If solid ground is more your speed, we have miles of nature trails, cycling paths, parks and acres of golf courses to keep you active and engaged. In fact, we suggest that if you are planning a Central Florida vacation, make Winter Haven your hub.

The Weather Florida is known as the Sunshine State and Winter Haven is certainly no exception. For the vast majority of the year, we experience mild climate, blue skies, sunshine and light breezes. We are in Florida, though, so the occasional shower can occur, especially in the hotter, summer afternoons. A little shower also provides the perfect time to experience our indoor attractions and cultural venues.

The Music City Winter Haven’s musical history boasts hometown artists like Jim Stafford and Gram Parsons, and it’s present day also includes young artists making their mark. From variety shows and film festivals at the downtown Ritz Theatre to award-winning musicals and plays at Theatre Winter Haven to the Derry Down Project, an attempt to restore a 1960’s concert venue in the downtown district, we have dozens of venues that host music and entertainment ideal for lovers of art and culture.

Our “Main Street” In Winter Haven, Main Street

is actually Central Avenue, and it lives up to it’s name as a central part of Winter Haven’s cultural and business fabric. The shell of our historic downtown remains, but it has been revitalized by community investors to feature modern upgrades, street landscaping, restored storefronts, alfresco dining and sidewalks covered with decorative pavers. Our public library overlooking Central Park is one of the state’s most beautiful.

The heart of downtown features a perfectly appointed fountain, numerous festivals, art shows, car shows, farmer’s markets, family events and musical performances.

The Florida Outdoor Sculpture

Competition conducted by the acclaimed Polk Museum of Art in conjunction with the City of Winter Haven has also provided ten new outdoor sculptures crafted at the hands of talented artists from across the country each year.

Along with the Chain of Lakes, the 1920’s boom brought rapid growth throughout Florida, and eventually, serious economic turmoil. Winter Haven was not exempt. Citrus and other agricultural crops were the early economic mainstays. In 1930, a 22-year-old George Jenkins would start the Publix Super Market chain here on Fourth Street NW. In 1936, a gregarious promoter named Dick Pope opened Cypress Gardens on Lake Eloise. Pope brought intense publicity to Florida, Winter Haven and his

beloved park. The Pope family sold Cypress Gardens in 1985. For 73 years it entertained more than 50 million people. In October 2011, Merlin Entertainments Group opened LEGOLAND® Florida on the historic site and the Cypress Gardens botanical gardens are leased to, and beautifully maintained by LEGOLAND® Florida Resorts.

Winter Haven’s history is being preserved at the Museum of Winter Haven history located on Lake Howard and Pope Avenue in the historic Woman’s Club.

Our Rich History

The first settlers arrived in Winter Haven in the 1860’s. By 1885, the village was named by P.D. Eycleshimer. While many lived in the vicinity, such as the Eycleshimers, Sykes, Jacksons and Inmans, the first official residents of the village after it was platted were F.A.K. Harris and his wife Adele, who built the first commercial and residential structure downtown in 1885.

Our famous chain of canalconnected lakes was started in 1915 and completed in the early 1920’s.

Winter Haven Magazine 5

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The Place to Be As the national economy slowly improves from the challenges of the past decade, Central Florida’s rate of recovery has been much more expeditious and Winter Haven is no exception.

In fact, Winter Haven has been the beneficiary of one of the most talked about economic development projects in the state – the development and opening of CSX’s Central Florida Intermodal Logistics Center.

The technologically advanced intermodal center opened in spring of 2014 and makes Winter Haven one of the main hubs of product distribution by rail. This addition opens up numerous opportunities for businesses looking to expand their markets to the 18 million residents and visitors within 4-hours of Winter Haven, as well as the global economy through access to the Florida ports.

Winter Haven’s economy is diverse. We have several strong industry sectors including technology, medical services, logistics, tourism, business services and agriculture.

Part of what makes Winter Haven perfect for business is the cooperation and synergy experienced amongst our organizations working to support business sustainability and growth.

The Winter Haven Economic Development Council and the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce are two cornerstones working to champion efforts to expand local business and recruit new opportunities to Winter Haven. Our economic development pace is strong. With projects of all sizes and scales planned for Winter Haven, we are working closely with the city, county and state to bring these

projects to fruition.

Small business and entrepreneurs are our foundation and we are proud of that. At the chamber, we work closely with the city to advocate for our small businesses and ensure that our friendly business climate remains.

If you are thinking of opening or relocating your business to Winter Haven, give us a call and we will connect you to the pathway to success. We also partner with the Small Business Assistance Center and the Small Business Development Center to ensure you have the resources you need.

Together, Winter Haven stands ready to empower local business, and to remove any barriers to success. We are a creative city, an inspired city and a city of wonderful natural resources and beauty. We’re building tomorrow’s Winter Haven today…and we’re feeling good.

Winter Haven Magazine 7

The Place to Be... for Tech Numerous technology companies call Downtown Winter Haven home. Anchored primarily by the Inland Fiber and Data Park, over 35 companies bring a growing technology presence to the downtown core. The Protected Trust data center serves the healthcare industry with HIPAA-compliant data storage as well as numerous other global companies.

Companies such as Sony Playstation, CBS, eBay, NFL, Disney, MIT and more seek the expertise of Winter Haven-based technology companies.

Winter Haven is also home to Florida Lambda Rail (FLR), an independent statewide fiber-optic network owned by and operated on behalf of its partner universities and affiliates. FLR drives academic, scientific, educational and clinical applications and data over its 1,540-mile fiber-optic facilities based network and provides direct connectivity to a wide range of both domestic and international research and education networks. Plans are currently in place to increase the capacity of the network from the current rate of 20 gigabits per second to 100 gigabits per second, by mid-2015.

Business Resources

Central Florida Development Council David Petr, President/CEO 863-551-4760, cfdc.org

Small Business Assistance Center, cfdc.org/sbac

City of Winter Haven Merle Bishop, Growth Management, 863-291-5600 mywinterhaven.com

Small Business Development Center, sbdctampabay.org

Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce Katie Worthington, President 863-293-2138 winterhavenchamber.com

Winter Haven Economic Development Council Bruce Lyon, Executive Director 863-837-5280, whedc.com

Hello, neighbor!

Cheryl Beckert ChFC, Agent 631 E Central Avenue Winter Haven, FL 33880 Bus: 863-294-3580 cheryl@cherylbeckert.com

Please stop by and say, “Hi!” I’m looking forward to serving your needs for insurance and financial services.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

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8 Winter Haven Magazine

Main Street Winter Haven Anita Strang, Executive Director 863-295-9422, mainstreetwh.com

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

Winter Haven Magazine 9

Things to Do

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Water Park

Since Dick Pope opened his beloved Cypress Gardens in 1936, Winter Haven has been a mecca of attractions, vacation fun and family time. Whether you’re here to see LEGOLAND® for a week, or you’re looking for something local to do with your kids on the weekend, we’ve got you covered.

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

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Winter Haven is host city to LEGOLAND® Florida, the fifth and largest of the LEGOLAND® brand, and only the second such park in the United States.

Catering primarily to multigenerational families with children two to twelve years old the park features over 50 rides, shows, interactive attractions, restaurants, shops and so much more. Your family can explore scaled-down replicas of famous skylines in Miniland USA, enjoy live entertainment and ski shows, “pink-knuckle” rides and a fullfeature water park open from the spring through early fall.

Additionally, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the world-famous Cypress Gardens Botanical Gardens, owned by the citizens of Polk County, and leased to

the park in exchange for their meticulous maintenance.

Since the park opened the gates in 2011, expansion has been the name of the game, with the editions of The LEGO® World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network, the Miniland tribute to Star Wars films, DUPLO Village, Heartlake City and much more. In addition, the park will become a full resort on May 15, 2015 when they open the LEGOLAND® Florida Hotel.

Bok Tower Gardens Soaring 205 feet above the hillside, Bok Tower is the exquisite centerpiece that makes Bok Tower Gardens a majestic and soul-nourishing paradise.

The marble and coquina rock tower is home to a 60-bell carillon and surrounded by more than 700 acres of groves, meadows, endangered plants and protected lands. Opening in 1929 as a gift to the American people from the Dutch immigrant Edward Bok, the tower still rings out every half hour and between the hours of 1:00 and 3:00 PM, a carillonneur plays various musical selections.

Back to Nature Beyond the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, Winter Haven’s natural beauty and appeal can’t be underrated.

Protected trails and parks are located in every direction, allowing opportunity to learn, explore, have a picnic or even camp!

A visit to Camp Mack’s River Resort is necessary for all of those looking for a full, authentic Florida experience. Nestled among oak trees along the banks of the Kissimmee River, Camp Mack’s 40-room motel offers rugged Florida nature tours and airboat rides with all the modern amenities of home.

Visit Circle B Bar Reserve for the chance to see bald eagles, dozens of gators, turtles, birds, rabbits and so much more!

Water Ski Hall of Fame You may not get your own feet wet, but you can learn the history of those who have by waterskiing their way into the water ski hall of fame! This museum experience offers a look at the legacy left by those champions who dared to

don skis and those who skied on their bare feet!

The relatively young sport dates from 1922. Champions and their waterskiing records, many of which were set right here in Winter Haven, are on display.

Attractions Bok Tower Gardens 863-676-1408 boktowergardens.org Circle B Bar Reserve/Polk Nature Discovery Center 863-668-4673 polknature.com/discovery/ LEGOLAND Florida Resort 877-350-LEGO legoland.com Sun ‘n Fun & Florida Air Museum 863-904-4012 sun-n-fun.org Water Ski Hall of Fame 863-324-2472 waterskihalloffame.com Walt Disney World Resort 407-939-2273 disneyworld.disney.go.com Westgate River Ranch 863-692-1321 wgriverranch.com

Bok Tower Gardens

Winter Haven Magazine 11

Things to Do continued...

Adventure Sports

Bowling

Action Paintball/Laser Tag 863-224-6915 action-paintball.com

Cypress Lanes 863-294-3295 cypresslanes.com

Leadfeather Guns & Archery 863-875-8989 leadfeathergunsandarchery.com

Fishing

Paddleboard Winter Haven 863-289-9502 paddleboardwinterhaven.com

Airboat Tours Camp Mack’s River Resort 863-696-1108 campmack.com

Boat Rentals Marine Supply of Winter Haven 863-293-1156 marinesupplyboats.com

Camp Mack’s River Resort 863-696-1108 campmack.com Central Florida Bucketmouths 863-661-7226 cfbucketmouths.com

Flight Training Preston Aviation - Biplane Rides 863-956-2526 prestonaviation.net Jack Brown’s Sea Plan Base Rides and Lesson 863-956-2243 brownsseaplane.com

TC Helicopters- School/Rentals 863-877-4310 tchelicopters.com

Golf - Public Cypresswood Golf & Country Club 863-324-6174 cypresswoodcc.com Lake Bess Golf Club 863-326-9171 lakebessgolfclub.com Willowbrook Golf Course 863-291-5899 golfwillowbrooknow.com

Golf - Private Country Club of Winter Haven 863-324-6666 ccofwinterhaven.com

Historic Sites Gene Leedy Self-Guided Architechtural Tour Begins at 401 Ave B NW geneleedy.com Museum of Winter Haven History Open October - May, Saturdays, 9 am - 2 pm Visit their Facebook page for updated information.

Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library 863-534-4386 polkhistorycenter.org

Museums, Art Galleries & Theatres Polk Museum of Art 863-688-7743 polkmuseumofart.com Ridge Art Association, Inc. 863-291-5661 ridgeart.org The Ritz Theatre 863-295-9900 ritzoncentral.com Theatre Winter Haven 863-299-2672 theatrewinterhaven.com

12 Winter Haven Magazine

Hill

NISSAN www.hillnissan.com

6401 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

Winter Haven • (863) 299-2161

Winter Haven Magazine 13

Derry Down Benefit Concert

Arts & Culture Winter Haven isn’t only rich in things to do, it also offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for theatre, comedy, music or galleries, we’ve got you covered!

Theatre Winter Haven has been recognized as one of the best small theaters in America and has been entertaining Central Florida for 45 years. It captivates audiences with eight full-scale productions annually as well as summer, youth, senior and stage reads. The Chain of Lakes auditorium holds more than 330 and sells more than 30,000 tickets each year.

Downtown’s historic Ritz Theatre has undergone restoration as a multi-purpose facility. For more than fifty years, the theatre provided entertainment and a sense of community for residents of Winter Haven. Today you will experience film festivals, vaudeville shows, musical performances from some legendary favorites and so much more.

Polk State College also hosts theatrical and musical productions on its stage in the Fine Arts Auditorium on the Winter Haven campus. The Polk State Players, Over 55 Show Band, and the

Theatre Winter Haven

14 Winter Haven Magazine

music department take turns entertaining audiences at events throughout the year. They also have a robust visual arts program that displays student artwork throughout the year.

Winter Haven’s musical history boasts hometown artists like Jim Stafford and Gram Parsons, and its present day also includes young artists making their mark. In 2014 the community, through nonprofit Main Street Winter Haven, began the Derry Down Project – an attempt to restore a 1960’s concert venue in the downtown district

Outd o Com or Sculp petit ture ion

that was Gram Parson’s first concert hall. Several concerts are being held throughout the year to help raise funds to restore the facility.

Musical delights are available at concerts sponsored by the Symphony Guild of Winter Haven.

In addition to Bok Tower Garden’s daily carillon concerts, they host various concerts during the year, including one of the most popular - Sunset and Symphony. For those who prefer a more visual artistic experience, Bok Tower Gardens features a gallery displaying the work of local artists. Ridge Art Association is Winter Haven’s premier gallery and hosts public receptions for artists, competitions, classes, and festivals throughout the year.

Each year, Winter Haven’s Central Park is home to ten winners of the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition.

Coordinated by the Polk Museum of Art, the exhibition is presented

Arts & Culture Venues Arts Ensemble

863-293-2700 artsensemblehealingarts.com

Ballet Conservatory 863-299-1055 theballetconservatory.com

Florida Dance Theatre 863-802-0399 floridadancetheatre.org

Haines City Community Theatre 863-421-1893 hainescitytheater.com

Imperial Symphony Orchestra 863-688-3743 imperialsymphony.org

Lake Wales Little Theatre

863-676-1266 lwlt.org

by the City of Winter Haven and individual sponsors. The “Central Park Stroll” is hosted each spring to introduce the newest sculptures to the public. In addition to hosting ten new sculptures every year, Central Park also serves as home to festivals and activities that cater to the visual or fine arts. Main Street Winter Haven presents many events such as a community fish fry, Oktoberfest and street parties.

The Chamber hosts Citizen’s Bank & Trust’s Communityfest & Taste of Winter Haven on the third weekend in February. This festival celebrates the authenticity, creativity, diversity and flavor of the community. Winter Haven’s downtown is the location for events such as “Ghoul’s Night Out,” “Carols in the Park” and “Snow Central” – family-friendly, Other events include the Chain of Lakes Christmas Boat Parade (the first Saturday in December), Polk State College’s Fall Fest, Bark in the Park and so much more.

Lakeland Community Theatre

863-603-7529 lakelandcommunitytheatre.com

Platform Art 863-838-2662 platformart.org

Polk State College 863-297-1000 polk.edu

Polk State Lake Wales Arts Center 863-298-6883 polk.edu/lake-wales

Polk Museum of Art 863-688-7743 polkmuseumofart.org

Many of these events and other happenings can be found on the Greater Winter Haven Chamber’s Community Calendar at www.winterhavenchamber. com and on facebook.com/ winterhavenchamber.

Polk Theatre 863-682-7553 polktheatre.org

Ridge Art Association 863-291-5661 ridgeart.org

Theatre Winter Haven 863-294-7469 theatrewinterhaven.com

The Lakeland Center 863-834-8111 thelakelandcenter.com

The Symphony Guild of Winter Haven 863-293-5214

More info on all arts: Polk Arts Alliance 863-804-0494 polkartsalliance.org

Winter Haven Magazine 15

It doesn't matter if you saved money in 15 minutes.

It doesn't matter if your neighbor has the same insurance you do.

What matters right now is the quality of your independent insurance agent and the company that stands behind them.

Call or visit us:

BARFIELD INSURANCE (863)-293-5400 www.insurewithbarfield.com

16 Winter Haven Magazine

Sweet’s Paint 863-297-5600 sweetspaint.com Tucker Carpets 863-293-6641 tuckercarpets.com

Specialty Retail

Shopping In Winter Haven our stores include the largest department stores, intimate boutiques, antiques, consignment and specialty stores. For more specific needs or interests, please see our database online at winterhavenchamber. com.

A few of the options...

Antiques Treasure House Antiques & Collectibles 863-297-3046 treasurehousefl.com

Health & Sport Andersen Cycle & Key Shop 863-294-2165 andersenlockandkeys.com Beltone Hearing Aid Center 863- 294-8353 hearingaidsfla.com The Bike Shop 863-299-9907 bikeshopofwinterhaven.com GNC Winter Haven 863-370-3327 gnc.com Main Line Vitamins 800-531-8240 mainlinevitamins.com Marine Supply of Winter Haven 863-293-1156

Meg’s Medical Scrubs & Boutique 863-291-8400 Winter Haven Audiology 863-293-6507 winterhavenaudology.com

Home Ambiance Interior Design 863-299-2288 Blackburn’s Interiors, Inc. 863-294-7355 blackburnsinteriors.com Central Door Co. 863-324-3719 Claussen’s Haven Furniture 863-293-1875 claussensfurniture.com Doty Farm & Garden Supply 863-293-9730 GLT Office Plus Business Center 863-686-1799 gltoffice.com Nettle Creek Interior Design 863-326-1756 Office Furniture Depot 863-682-3450 officefurnituredepot.com

Carlton Music Center 863-294-4216 carltonmusic.com The Cheese Room 863-299-7000 thecheeseroomwh.com Elmo & Linda’s Magical Dining & Boutique 863-514-5382 elmolinda.com Go Wireless 863-324-2233 gowireless.net Griner’s Jewelers 863-293-0151 grinersjewelers.com Lasater Flowers 863- 294-3213 lasaterflowers.net Master Etch 863-248-7544 masteretch.net Tally-Ho Jewelers 863-299-7966 tallyhojewelers.com Trophy Shop 863-299-6566 trophyshoponline.com

Women’s Retail Angelique Bridal & Formal 863-299-2002 angeliquebridalbygina.com Elonka’s 863-293-5689 elonkafashions.com Lucy Minerals 863-875-5930 lucyminerals.com

Winter Haven Magazine 17

Quality in-depth, award-winning coverage delivered to your door or electronically every day so you can spend quality time with those who matter most.

The #1 read newspaper in Polk County.*

Subscribe today and have unlimited access!

In Print, Mobile and Online! *Source: Scarborough Research , 2013

To Subscribe call 863-802-7323 or 888-431-7323 or http://subscribe.theledger.com To Advertise: East Polk 863-401-6902 or West Polk 863-802-7414

18 Winter Haven Magazine

COME HOME TO YOUR LAKEFRONT APARTMENT COMMUNITY

Worship

The places of worship listed below are members of the Chamber of Commerce. We have a diverse offering of places of worship including but not limited to churches, synagogues and Islamic

temples.

CenterPoint Community Church 863-324-7915 centerpointchurch.org As one of Polk County’s more vibrant apartment communities, Carlton Arms of Winter Haven is the ideal place for you to live, work, and play.

• FREE Basic Cable TV Package • FREE WiFi at 2 Lakefront Pools • FREE Valet Trash Removal • Large Private Patios/Balconies • Rapid Response Maintenance • 2 Private Party Clubhouses • Fitness Center w/Steam Showers • Fresh Water Fishing 863.875.1700 7676 Carlton Arms Blvd Winter Haven, Fl 33884 CarltonArmsofWinterHaven.com

864 1st Street South Winter Haven, FL 33880

First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven 863-294-3121 – firstpreswh.org Heartland Community Church 863-299-7797 –heartchurch.org Hope Presbyterian Church 863-324-6382 –hopepreswh.org Jewish Learning Center 863-510-5968 –jewishwinterhaven.org St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 863-294-8888 –stpaulswinterhaven.com St. Joseph Catholic Church & School 863-294-3144 –stjosephwh.org St. Matthew Catholic Church 863-324-3040 –stmatthewwh.com Winter Haven Nazarene 863-293-0690 –whnaz.net

Thank you to our advertisers!

Tax Prep • Current • Past Due Individual • Business • Payroll IRS Problem Resolution & Audit Help

We Help Clean Up the Mess the Others Left

Christina Hansen yourtaxedge.com 863-875-7853 help@yourtaxedge.com

Accounting & Tax Edge, LLC Alfa Romeo - FIAT of Winter Haven All Saints Academy Barfield Insurance Agency Bright Smiles of Winter Haven Bond Clinic, P.A. Cheryl Beckert, State Farm Carlton Arms of Winter Haven CenterState Bank Citizens Bank & Trust Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram of Winter Haven

Fischer, Schemmer, Silbiger & Moraczewski, MD, PA Gessler Clinic, P.A. Hampton Inn Winter Haven Hill Nissan Holiday Inn Winter Haven John Wood Realty Inc. The Ledger Main Line Vitamins Raymond James - Brad Dantzler Ridge Career Center Urgent Care Cypress Water’s Edge of Lake Wales Winter Haven Hospital

Get Social With Us! Winter Haven Magazine 19

Restaurants & Caterers Arabella’s Ristorante 863-293-1797 – arabellas.us

Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub 863-293-9464 beefobradys.com

International House of Pancakes (IHOP) 326-1772 –ihop.com

La Flor De Espana Bakery & Restaurant 863-299-1122 Cam’s Catering Company, Inc. facebook.com/laflordeespanabak863-298-8062 – camscatering.com erywh Carrabba’s Italian Grill Longhorn Steakhouse 863-293-6635 – carrabbas.com 863-295-7740 Chef Boy R G’s - Sugar Bakery longhornsteakhouse.com 863-292-9706 McDonald’s 863-293-1445 – mcdonalds.com Chick-fil-A 863-299-2697 Old Anchor Bar chick-fil-a.com/winterhaven 863-875-7815 CiCi’s Pizza Old Man Frank’s 863-293-9292 – cicispizza.com 863-294-9179 Dairy Queen Perkins Restaurant & Bakery 863-299-5165 – dairyqueen.com 863-875-0627 perkinsrestaurants.com Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins 863-297-9100 Publix Super Market #1204 863-291-0312 – publix.com El Norteno Restaurant 863-298-0993 Puff n Stuff Catering, LLC elnortenosmexicanrestaurant.com 407-629-7833 – puffnstuff.com Elmo & Linda’s Magical Red Lobster Dining 863-298-0993 863-294-8844 – redlobster.com elmolinda.com Richard’s Fine Coffees Favor Bakery 863-291-3082 863-299-1166 richardsfinecoffees.com favorbakery.com Rick’s Bar-B-Q Fire Restaurant 863-299-0354 –ricksbarbq.com 863-875-5544 Saigon Garden thefirerestaurant.com 863-875-6975 Golden Corral Buffet & Grill 863-324-5600 goldencorral.com Gourmet Goodies Yum! 863-670-7113 – ggcupcake.com Harborside 863-293-7070 – harborsidefl.com Hurricane Grill & Wings 863-324-5157 hurricanewings.com

20 Winter Haven Magazine

Schack’s Bar-B-Q 863-324-1537 SCORES Family Sports Cafe 863-324-6174 Seasoned Stone 863-875-5756 Smokin Jim’s Barbeque 863-965-0230 – smokinjimsbbq.ws Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 863-293-4744 – sonnysbbq.com Southside Package & Lounge 863-683-4703 Starbucks 863-229-5973 – starbucks.com Tallulahs Table by the SeaFood Truck 863-324-0301 harrysoldplace.com Tanner’s Lakeside 863-662-5948 tannerslakeside.com/ Terrie Lobb Catering 863-533-6483 terrielobbcatering.com Texas Cattle Company 863-686-1515 texascattlecompany.net Tinsley Family Concessions 863-299-7177 – tfcfamily.com Wendy’s (2 locations) wendys.com Woodys’ Bar-B-Q 863-297-5330 – woodys.com Zaxby’s 863-2299-7200 – zaxbys.com

Accommodations

Accommodations

LEGOLAND Hotel opening May 2015

Hotels/Motels Best Western Plus Auburndale Inn & Suites 863-551-3400 – bestwestern.com/ plusauburndaleinnandsuites Hampton Inn 863-299-9251 – hamptoninn.com Harbor Waterfront Resort 863-696-1194 theharborwaterfrontresort.com Holiday Inn Express Lake Wales - North Winter Haven 863-949-4800 holidayinnexpress.com Holiday Inn of Winter Haven 863-292-2100 holidayinn.com/winterhavenfl

Red Roof Inn Dundee 863-438-2782 – redroof.com

Apartments/Condos

Winter Haven Suites & Conference Center 863-294-4451 winterhavensuites.com

Carlton Arms of Winter Haven 863-875-1700 carltonarmsofwinterhaven.com

Campgrounds & RV Parks Camp Mack’s River Resort 863-696-1108 – campmack.com

Cypress Gardens Apartment Homes 863-324-1072 cypressgardensapthomes.com

Cypress Campground & RV Park 863-324-7400 cypresscampground.com

Madison Lake Ned 863-318-9670 madisonapartmentgroup.com/ winter-haven/madison-lake-ned

Briarcrest at Winter Haven Westgate River Ranch Resort 863-293-3350 863-692-1321 – wgriverranch.com robbinspropertyllc.com

Lake Ida Beach Resort 863-293-0942 lakeidabeachresort.com Lake Roy Beach Inn & Suites 863-324-6320 lakeroybeachinn.com LEGOLAND® Florida Resort 877-350-5346 – legoland.com Magnuson Grand Conference Hotel 863-324-5950 magnusongrandconferencehotel.com

Winter Haven Magazine 21

Becoming a Resident Winter Haven is a great place to call home for many reasons. The cost of living here is typically lower than the national average making the Chain of Lakes City a practical place to settle. Residences ranging from apartments, to downtown condos to single-family homes to waterfront estates offer a variety of options. In fact, there are over 1,400 lakefront properties in Winter Haven!

City parks, trails and other recreational amenities have grown significantly throughout the past decade. There is ample access to our lakes for boaters and our parks offer a variety of recreational and exercise options. We also have strong youth sports programs including swimming, football and soccer, to name a few.

Over the next several pages you will learn more about settling into Winter Haven. We certainly hope you decide to call us home!

Winter Haven Public Library

Post Offices 111 W. Central Avenue – 863-299-7824 1401 1st St N – 863-293-5370 Electric Tampa Electric Company (TECO) 863-299-0800 – tampaelectric.com Gas Florida Public Utilities 800-427-7712 – fpuc.com Telephone & Cable Bright House Networks 863-965-7766– brighthouse.com Water City of Winter Haven 863-291-5678 – mywinterhaven.com Refuse Collection City of Winter Haven 863-291-5756 – mywinterhaven.com Polk County 863-284-4319 – polk-county.net Public Transit Winter Haven Area Transit (WHAT) 863-534-5500 – polktransit.org Your Records Social Security Office 1395 Havendale Blvd NW 800-772-1213 Tag Agency – 863-293-5551 Driver’s License – 863-421-3202

22 Winter Haven Magazine

A Snowbirds Winter Haven Brookdale Senior Living 863-318-8055, brookdale.com Consulate Health Care 863-298-5000 consulatehealthcare.com Harbor Waterfront Resort 863-696-1194 theharborwaterfrontresort.com The Hawthorn Inn 863-324-2212 Lake Howard Heights 863-293-3171 seniorlifestyle.com

you deserve Call 863.877.4370 today to learn more!

10 Grove Avenue West | Lake Wales, FL 33853 www.WatersEdgeLakeWales.org Assisted Living License #11669

NCLW 4_875x2_375 000000.indd 1

9/22/14 3:58 PM

“FROM OUR HOUSE TO YO U R S ”

Life Care Center 863-318-8646, lcca.com New Horizon Assisted Living 863-299-3651 newhorizonretirementcommunities.com

Spring Haven Retirement 863-293-0072, holidaytouch.com (pictured above) Vienna Square 877-791-9907, viennasquare.com Water’s Edge of Lake Wales 863-678-6800 watersedgelakewales.com

Carol Jean Sheil

Broker, SRES Cell: 863-412-3801 Office: 863-299-5878 caroljeansheil@msn.com www.jbcleaves.com

131 5th St NW Winter Haven, FL 33881 Downtown “On the Park” across from the Chamber Our New Location!

Building Relationships & Meeting Customers Real Estate Needs Since 1979

Winter Haven Magazine 23

Realtors

Briarcrest at Winter Haven 863-293-3350 robbinspropertyllc.com

Janice Summers Realty, Inc 863-318-9500 janiceasummersrealty.com

Real Estate Central Group 863-324-1000 recentralgroup.com

Brokers Realty of Central FL 863-294-6773 reneebutler.com

John Wood Realty, Inc 863-324-9663 johnwoodrealty.com

Six/Ten LLC 863-299-1195 sixtenllc.com

The Cathy K TeamKeller Williams 863-604-6220 x362873.yourkwagent.com

Judy B. Cleaves Properties 863-299-5878 jbcleaves.com

Star Realty of Winter Haven 863-299-7827 starrealtyofwh.com

Madison Lake Ned 863-318-9670 madisonapartmentgroup.com

The Mahoney Group, Inc 863-619-6740 mahoneygroupinc.com

MIDFLORIDA Real Estate Sales, LLC 863-299-9988 midfloridasales.com

Turner Properties of CFI 863-324-1882

Carla J. Meeks, Web Pro Realty, LLC 863-604-9287 homesbycarla.net Carlton Arms of Winter Haven 863-875-1700 carltonarmsofwinterhaven.com Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate 863-294-7541 floridamoves.com Crosby & Associates, Inc. 863-293-5600 crosbydirt.com Cypress Gardens Apartment Homes 863-324-1072 cypressgardensapthomes.com Deltona Realty at Winter Haven 863-845-5999 deltonawinterhaven.com Development Group of Central Florida 863-291-0731 Florida Home Choice Realty, LLC 863-412-2727 floridahomechoice.com Hold Thyssen Real Estate Services 407-691-0505 holdthyssen.com

24 Winter Haven Magazine

Norris & Company Realty 863-875-5583 michaelanddeenorris.com RE/MAX Associate Realty 863-618-4000 chrissijasso.remaxagent.com

Watson & Watson, Inc, Realtors 863-294-4149 watsonandwatsonrealtors.com

Events Boa

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ck & B

ri Red, B

Snow Central

January

Central Park Arts Festival

Lake Mirrior Classic Auto Festival

Alafia River Rendezvous

Winter Haven – ridgeart.org

Homeland – floridafrontiersmen.org

Champagne & Shamrocks

Lakeland – lakemirrorclassic.com

Special Performance Series

Symphony Guild of Winter Haven

Pioneer Days Festival

Polk State College, Winter Haven polk.edu

Florida Strawberry Festival

Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow Auburndale –intlmarketworld.com

February Communityfest Winter Haven

Plant City – flstrawberryfestival.com

Lake Wales Art Show Lake Wales-lakewalesartscenter.org

April

Winter Haven-communityfestwh.com Bark in the Park Winter Haven – sun-n-fun.org

Mardi Gras Festival

Lake Wales – lwmardigras.com

Polk Senior Games polkseniorgames.org

Smoke on the Water

Concert Under the Stars Lake Wales – boktowergardens.org

Sun ‘n Fun Fly-IN Lakeland – mainstreetwh.com

Lake Wales – cityoflakewales.com

Polk State FallFest Winter Haven – polk.edu

Pops in the Park Downtown Winter Haven

Oktoberfest Winter Haven – mainstreetwh.com

November Christmas Tree Lighting Last Saturday - Downtown Winter Haven

When Pigs Fly South

Winter Haven - boysandgirlsbbq.com

May

Taste of Winter Haven

Lakeland – polkmuseumofart.org

December

July

Carols in the Park

Winter Haven-communityfestwh.com

March Bach Festisval Lakeland – bachfestivalofcentralflorida.org

Bloomin’ Arts Festival

Mayfaire by the Lake

Red, Brick and Boom

Winter Haven – mainstreetwh.com

Winter Haven – legoland.com

Christmas Boat Parade

October

Chain of Lakes - Winter Haven winterhavenchamber.com

Brick or Treat

Bartow – bartowartguild.com

Winter Haven – legoland.com

Bluegrass, Clogging Festival

Ghouls Night Out

Auburndale – intlmarketworld.com

Lakeland – sun-n-fun.org

Winter Haven – mywinterhaven.com

Christmas at Pinewood Lake Wales – boktowergardens.org

Snow Central Winter Haven - mywinterhaven.com

Winter Haven Magazine 25

Education

Winter Haven has a variety of educational options for your family no matter what stage of educational development. We are a part of the Polk County Public Schools system, one of the largest in the country, which in Winter Haven includes numerous elementary schools, a middle school, two high schools and several magnet, choice and

charter schools. Polk County Public Schools boasts over 60 career academies which focus on careers from veterinary medicine to marketing to robotics and so much more. They offer a small learning community supported by local subject matter experts on an advisory committee.

We are also privileged to have premier private schools that

Beyond-today learning PreSchool - grade 12 college prep curriculum 100% college acceptance since 1997 Vibrant music, art and athletic programs

All here.

All theirs.

All Saints.

meet the needs of many of our families as well as a strong home schooling network and a Montessori school.

The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce launched an Educational Outcomes initiative to determine ways the community may become involved in the public school system and help to improve the educational outcomes of our students. As a direct result, the Public Education Partnership (PEP) was formed comprising of educators, teachers, business leaders, elected officials and citizens.

The group gathered information from students, teachers, parents and the business community resulting in a series of key recommendations. These recommendations and other important considerations are now being addressed by PEP. This ground-breaking community action has resulted in call-toaction for citizens passionate about improving educational outcomes for our children.

Home to Polk State College. Soar Eagles!

Polk County’s beyond-today, beyond-classroom, beyond-expected independent learning community

allsaintsacademy.com 5001 State Road 540 West Winter Haven

26 Winter Haven Magazine

Polk State College was founded in 1964 to serve the higher education needs of Polk County. Over the years, the College has undergone tremendous growth and change.

Today, the College annually serves more than 24,000 credit and non-credit students in locations throughout Polk County and offers both associates degrees as well as fully accredited bachelor’s degrees.

Winter Haven is the home of Polk State College’s first permanent campus with 20 buildings on a 99-acre site overlooking beautiful Lake Elbert and includes the College’s district offices. Other locations include Lakeland, Lake Wales and Bartow.

Polk State outranks all other Florida State College System institutions in job-placement,

Florida Polytechnic University Campus

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well exceeding the statewide job placement average of 74%. The Polk State Corporate College and Clear Springs Advanced Technology Center continue to specialize in the creation and delivery of customized education and training programs.

Visitors to the region enjoy a variety of cultural events at the College’s various locations, as well as a range of championship inter-collegiate athletic events.

For residents and visitors alike, Polk State is at the heart of the region’s identity.

ege

Coll

Florida Polytechnic University

Polk County is home to Florida’s newest state university, Florida Polytechnic University. Opened in August 2014, Florida Poly is focused completely on science, technology, engineering and math degrees with an emphasis on innovation and research.

Florida Polytechnic is located just 10 minutes from Winter Haven.

Ready to Make A Career Change?

Ridge Offers 43 Career Fields. Which One Is for You?

Adult General Education Adult Basic Education (ABE) Applied Academics for Adult Education (AAAE) General Educational Development (GED) Classroom & Online

Architecture and & Communication

Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Technology Drafting Electricity

Arts, A/V Technology & Communication Digital Design Digital Design 1 Digital Design 2

Business Management & Administration Accounting Applications (HS Only) Accounting Operations Administrative Office Specialist Business Management and Analysis

Education & Training Teacher Assisting

Health Science

Massage Therapy Medical Coder/Biller Medical Record Transcribing Nursing Assistant (Long-Term Care) Patient Care Technician Pharmacy Technician Phlebotomy Practical Nursing

Hospitality & Tourism

Manufacturing

Human Services

Marketing, Sales & Service

Commercial Foods and Culinary Arts Culinary Arts (High School only)

Customer Service Representative

Barbering (Coming Soon) Cosmetology Facials Specialty Nails Specialty

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Information Technology Network Support Services

Law, Public Safety and Security Fire Fighter Fire Inspector Fire Instructor

Applied Welding Technologies Automation Production & Technology

Automotive Service Technology Automotive Service Technology 1 Automotive Service Technology 2 Commercial Class “B” Driving Commercial Vehicle Driving Medium and Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Technician Medium and Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Technician 1 Medium and Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Technician 2

Career Center Ridge Career Center is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.

Council on Occupational Education 7840 Roswell Road, Building 300, Suite 325 • Atlanta, GA 30350 770.396.3898 • FAX: 770.396.3790 • www.council.org Debit Accepted

Call Us Today!

7700 S.R. 544, Winter Haven, FL 33881

863.419.3060

www.ridge.edu

Financial and Veterans Assistance Is Available for Those Who Qualify.

Winter Haven Magazine 27

Message from City Hall

Welcome to Winter Haven where everyday is the perfect day to enjoy warm sunshine on your face and the refreshing waters of our many lakes. This closeknit community has a diverse population with a variety of historic neighborhoods to choose from. Everything you need is inside the City limits, from shopping to recreation to good jobs and education.

While exploring the area, you will find beautiful parks and trails with unique sculpture displays, kids play areas, great restaurants and our 32,000 square-foot, state-of-theart library. The redeveloped downtown is a pedestrian friendly place with numerous specialty shops, one-of-a-kind restaurants, a beautiful park stretching three blocks and a healthy business district. There is also a free parking garage right in the middle of it all on Ave A NW and 3rd Street NW. Winter Haven continues to enjoy steady and controlled growth while remaining a charmingly unique City,embracing the values and needs of its residents.

The City functions under a commission-manager form

28 Winter Haven Magazine

of local government. The City hope you will make yourself at Commission consists of five home. members, elected at-large, Visit mywinterhaven.com who hold office for four years. or call City Hall at 863-291Commissioners in office for more 5600 to learn more. Like us at than nine months are eligible to facebook.com/winterhavenflorida serve as Mayor and Mayor Pro and follow us at twitter.com/ Tem. They are elected by the mywinterhaven.

City Commission. While the City Commission acts as the legislative body of the City, the day-to-day operations of the City are directed by the City Manager.

The City of Winter Haven strives to provide for residents Parking Ga rage and visitors with a team of dedicated staff, community partners and an engaged community. We invite you to get engaged by attending our commission meetings, held on the second and fourth Monday of each month as well as serve on or attend one of our city committees. Our goal is to listen, learn and improve through citizen engagement.

For more than 100 years, Winter Haven has served as a destination where people want to live, work, play, learn and raise a family.

By choosing our city you have made the wise choice to be a part Bridge akes Trail of the Winter Haven lifestyle. We Chain of L

Bottom from left: Mayor Nathaniel Birdsong, Mayor Pro Tem Steven Hunnicutt Top from left: Commissioners Brad Dantzler, J.P. Powell and Peter Chichetto

BUILDING PORTFOLIOS ISN’T THE MOST IMPORTANT THING WE DO. BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS IS. Planning and investing for your future, your family or your business doesn’t have to be complicated. Especially when you have someone you trust, who has taken the time to get to know you and your specific situation, helping guide you along the way. We start by listening to your needs, then delivering the quality, sophisticated advice you expect and deserve.

Ensuring that we deliver not just any plan, but the right plan for you. LIFE WELL PLANNED.

BRAD DANTZLER, AAMS®

Managing Director Senior Vice President, Investments 141 5th Street NW, Suite 100 // Winter Haven, FL 33881 T 863.298.9569 // T 866.309.7515 // F 863.298.9129 brad.dantzler@raymondjames.com // braddantzler.com ©2014 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC Raymond James is a registered trademark of Raymond James Financial, Inc. 14-BR3AZ-0006 KM 12/14

Winter Haven Magazine 29

Medical Numbers Hospitals

Winter Haven Hospital 200 Ave F NW, Winter Haven 863-293-1121 winterhavenhospital.com Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center 40100 US Highway 27 Davenport, FL 33837 863-422-4971 heartofflorida.com

Healthcare Winter Haven counts its medical and allied health organizations among its finest resources.

Winter Haven Hospital Winter Haven Hospital offers diverse health-care services, educational offerings and health screening opportunities. Winter Haven Hospital, which recently became part of the Baycare Health System, has begun a renovation and master plan to invest over $51 million in capital and technological improvements.

Located in the heart of downtown and the centerpiece of a strong medical industry, Winter Haven Hospital’s currently has 527 beds and 300+ board certified physicians who work in every speciality including centers for excellence such as the Bostick Heart Center, the Cassidy Cancer Center, Winter Haven Women’s Hospital and a nationally recognized Stroke Center – to name a few. State-of-the-art patient care, advanced technology and equipment are coupled with top-quality training for Winter Haven Hospital’s physicians and nurses.

The hospital is Polk County’s first health-care organization to achieve Magnet status (2008).

30 Winter Haven Magazine

Winter Haven Hospital joins hospitals across the country – about five percent of the nation’s total – to be recognized for excellence in patient care.

Winter Haven Hospital is the largest private employer in east Polk County with more than 2,500 employees. The organization has been recognized as a “Best Place to Work” by CareerSource Polk.

Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, a 200-bed acute care facility, offers a full spectrum of services supported by over 200 physicians representing various medical specialties.

Fully accredited by the Joint Commission, Heart of Florida Hospital is located north of Winter Haven on Highway 27 in Haines City. From a state-of-theart bariatric surgery center, to robotic surgery to comprehensive treatment of heart disease to emergency services and more, Heart of Florida can take care of almost any ailment. Heart of Florida operates Urgent Care Cypress in Winter Haven, a facility that offers timely care for many illnesses and injuries.

Urgent Care Cypress also provides x-rays and lab work.

Clinics & Urgent Care Bond Clinic, P.A. Multispecialty Clinic & Urgent Care 500 E. Central Ave. 863-293-1191 bondclinic.com Central Florida Health Care, Inc. Multispecialty 1514 First Street North 863-292-4280 cfhconline.org First Care Winter Haven Urgent Care 400 First Street North 863-299-2420 firstcarewinterhaven.com Gessler Clinic Multispecialty 35 First Street N 863-294-0670 gesslerclinic.com iMA Medical Center Multispeciality 199 SE Avenue K 863-299-6700 imamedicalcenter.com Urgent Care Cypress Urgent Care 7375 Cypress Gardens Blvd 863-325-8185 cypresswalkin.com

OUCH!

WHEN ACCIDENTS HAPPEN, TURN TO US FOR QUALITY CARE AND CONVENIENT HOURS. When a minor illness or injury can’t wait, Urgent Care Cypress is here for you.

We offer extended hours during the week as well as Saturday and Sunday hours.

Our experienced medical team will see you with no appointment required!

Visit CypressWalkin.com or call 863-325-8185 for more information.

IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911.

7375 Cypress Gardens Blvd. • Winter Haven, FL 33884

82148_HFRM_UCcypress_7_5x10c.indd 1

Winter Haven Magazine 31 1/6/15 4:49 PM

Medical Numbers continued: Physicians & Specialties Anesthesia Associates 567 Ave K SE, 863-299-1231 winterhavenanesthesia.com

Internal Medicine Group of Winter Haven, P.A. 400 Ave K SE, Ste 11 863-294-4404

Lakeside Dermatology A.T. Radiology 400 Ave K SE, Ste 3 315 E. Central Ave, 863-295-5674 863-293-7546 The Barranco Clinic lakesidedermatology.com Otolaryngology/Face & Neck Messiah Orthopedic Clinic Surgery 1601 6th St SE, 863-419-9301 160 E Lake Howard Drive 863-299-1251, barrancoclinic.com Pediatric Partners 550 Pope Ave, 863-293-2144 Central Florida Dermatology pediatric-partners.com & Skin Cancer Center 1450 6th Street SE, 863-293-2147 Perfect Form Center for centralfldermatology.com Wellness and Anti-Aging 145 Avenue G SW, 863-299-9111 Central Florida Foot & Ankle perfectformwellness.com Center, 101 Sixth St NW 863-299-4551, flfootandankle.com SUMA Wellness Centers 7558 Cypress Gardens Blvd Central Florida Orthopedic 863-401-3606 Surgery Associates, P.L. 2000 E. Edgewood Dr. Lakeland Vascular Vein Centers 863-666-3436, cfosa.com 4121 Webb Dr, Davenport 407-927-5814 Central Florida Speech & bestveintreatment.com Hearing 3020 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Winter Haven Pediatrics Lakeland, 863-686-3189, cfshc.org 430 E. Central Ave, 863-284-6580 clarkdaughtrey.com Cypress Medical Center - Dr. Raphael Lopez Dentistry & Oral Surgery 7482 Cypress Gardens Blvd Bright Smiles of Winter Haven 863-421-4400 1550 First St S, 863-293-0636 cypressmedicalcenter.com brightsmilesofwinterhaven.com Florida Joint & Spine Ellis & Abramowitz Institute Orthodontics 400 Avenue K SE - Bldg 4 2110 Flamingo Drive 863-385-2222, floridajointspine.

863-533-3302 com eaortho.com Integrative Physical Medicine George W Butz, III, DDS of Winter Haven 1517 Third St SE, 863-299-7974 Arthritis/Pain Management drbutz.com 7494 Cypress Gardens Blvd 863-271-4600 integrativephysicalmedicine.com

32 Winter Haven Magazine

John R. Eycleshimer, DDS 399 Ave K SE, 863-293-3223 johneycleshimerdentist.com Lake Wales Dentistry Dr. Thomas Fellner 24174 Hwy 27 South 863-679-3229 lakewalesdentistry.com Polk Periodontics, Dr. Jeffry Barnes 320 Ave K SE, 863-293-5099 polkperio.com Winter Haven Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 501 E. Central Ave, 863-293-1108 winterhavenfamilydentistry.com Winter Haven Oral Surgery 400 Avenue K SE - Suite 14A 863-294-7648 whomsimplants.com Eyes & Opthalmology Center for Retina & Mascular Disease 250 Ave K SW #200, 863-297-5400 crmd.net Eye Express - Phillips, Salomon & Parrish 215 First St N. 863-299-8908 eyeexpress.com Eye Specialists of MidFlorida 407 Ave K SE, 863-293-4114 eyesfl.com Fischer, Schemmer, Silbiger & Moraczewski, MD, PA 215 1st St N Suite #200 863-294-5457, eyecarefss.com

Important Contacts Fire, Police & Ambulance Emergency- 911 Courthouse/County Clerk 863-534-4540, polkcountyclerk.net Property Appraisers 863-534-4777, polkpa.org Sheriff’s Department 863-298-6200, polksheriff.org Voter Registration 863-534-5888, polkelections.com City of Winter Haven, City Hall 863-291-5600, mywinterhaven.com Parks & Recreation 863-291-5656, mywinterhaven.com Winter Haven Police Department Non-Emergency 863-291-5858, whpd.mywinterhaven.com

Winter Haven Senior Center 863-291-5870 Public Library 863-291-5880, whpl.mywinterhaven.com The Ledger Media Group (newspaper) 863-802-7000, theledger.com Winter Haven Municipal Airport 863-298-4551, mywinterhaven.com Winter Haven Area Transit (public transit) 863-688-7433, ridecitrus.com Better Business Bureau 407-621-3300, centralfloridabbb.org CareerSource Polk 863-293-0242, careersourcepolk.com Social Security Office 863-293-0242, ssa.gov

By the Numbers Regional Population Within 25 miles - 726,464 Within 50 miles - 3,637,945 Within 100 miles - 9,140,092 Winter Haven Population 2014 - 37,016 in the city limits Approximately 75,000 in the Greater Winter Haven area Population by Age (2013) Age 0-14 6,603 15-24 3,965 25-54 12,996 55-64 4,379 65+ 8337 Top 5 Industries by Employment 1. Healthcare & Education 2. Arts & Entertainment 3. Retail Trade 4. Professional Services 5. Manufacturing

Winter Haven Magazine 33

Your Furry Family

Dunham Animal Hospital & Bird Clinic 3201 Recker Hwy, 863-293-0850 dunhamanimalhospital.com Humane Society of Polk County 3195 Dundee Rd, 863-324-5227 humanesocietyofpolkcounty.org Orchid Springs Animal Hospital 615 Overlook Dr, 863-324-6964 osahvets.com SPCA Florida 5850 Brannen Road S, Lakeland, 863-577-4607 spcaflorida.org Polk County Animal Shelter 7115 de Castro Road 863-499-2600 polksheriff.org Veterinary Healthcare Associates 3025 Dundee Rd, 863-324-3340, vhavets.com

34 Winter Haven Magazine

Winter Haven Magazine 35

Your Local To a Healthy Heart

Exceptional Heart Care in the Heart of Polk County Located in the heart of Polk County, the Bostick Heart Center at Winter Haven Hospital has been nationally recognized for providing leading heart care. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons ranked us among the Top 25 Hospitals in the U.S. for heart surgery, and we perform more open-heart surgeries than any other hospital in the area.

With quality and experience like that, why go anywhere else?

Get connected to your heart health.

Take a heart health risk assessment at WinterHavenHeart.org.

For a physician referral:

(863) 280-6061

BC1403999-0814