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To reserve a team or for more information, please contact the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation: (863) 292-4138 | [email protected] | www.whhfoundation.org
A Benefit For Winter Haven Hospital Emergency Room Patients
The Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Shooter Showdown Sporting Clays Open is a competitive team event often described as “golf with a shotgun.” The event involves four-person teams shooting clay targets that are launched from throwing machines in a variety of trajectories, angles, speeds, elevations and distances. This year’s Shooter Showdown will be held at FishHawk Sporting Clays in Lithia. FishHawk is located within a beautiful outdoor setting comprised of oaks and pines. FishHawk features two courses designed to accommodate both novice and experienced shooters.
All funds raised from the Shooter Showdown will benefit Winter Haven Hospital Emergency Room patients. Whether you are a beginner or skilled sporting clays competitor, join us at this fun and challenging event!
DATE AND LOCATION< <
Friday, February 1, 2013
FishHawk Sporting Clays13505 Hobson Simmons Road
Lithia, Florida 33547
SCHEDULE< <Registration - 11:00 a.m.
Lunch - 12:00 p.m.Team Competition Start - 1:00 p.m.
Awards Presentation - 3:30 p.m.
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS
< <Presenting Sponsor - $10,000
Lunch Sponsor - $5,000Ammo Sponsor - $2,500Team Sponsor - $1,000
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 3
To reserve a team or for more information, please contact the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation: (863) 292-4138 | [email protected] | www.whhfoundation.org
A Benefit For Winter Haven Hospital Emergency Room Patients
The Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Shooter Showdown Sporting Clays Open is a competitive team event often described as “golf with a shotgun.” The event involves four-person teams shooting clay targets that are launched from throwing machines in a variety of trajectories, angles, speeds, elevations and distances. This year’s Shooter Showdown will be held at FishHawk Sporting Clays in Lithia. FishHawk is located within a beautiful outdoor setting comprised of oaks and pines. FishHawk features two courses designed to accommodate both novice and experienced shooters.
All funds raised from the Shooter Showdown will benefit Winter Haven Hospital Emergency Room patients. Whether you are a beginner or skilled sporting clays competitor, join us at this fun and challenging event!
DATE AND LOCATION< <
Friday, February 1, 2013
FishHawk Sporting Clays13505 Hobson Simmons Road
Lithia, Florida 33547
SCHEDULE< <Registration - 11:00 a.m.
Lunch - 12:00 p.m.Team Competition Start - 1:00 p.m.
Awards Presentation - 3:30 p.m.
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS
< <Presenting Sponsor - $10,000
Lunch Sponsor - $5,000Ammo Sponsor - $2,500Team Sponsor - $1,000
GET YOUR ADVANCE TICKETS TODAY • www.flstrawberryfestival.com
Thu. Feb. 28 10:30 Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra FREEThu. Feb. 28 3:30 Chubby Checker $15 & $20Thu. Feb. 28 7:30 FOREIGNER $25
Fri. Mar. 1 3:30 Gene Watson $15 & $20Fri. Mar. 1 7:30 Casting Crowns $20 & $25
Sat. Mar. 2 1:00 Caroline Kole FREESat. Mar. 2 3:30 Gloriana $15 & $20 Sat. Mar. 2 7:30 Justin Moore $15 & $20
Sun. Mar. 3 3:30 Randy Houser $15 & $20 Sun. Mar. 3 7:30 Alan Jackson $45
Mon. Mar. 4 3:30 Grits & Glamour Tour with Lorrie Morgan/Pam Tillis $15 & $20Mon. Mar. 4 7:30 Dwight Yoakam $20 & $25
Tues. Mar. 5 3:30 Bobby Vinton $15 & $20Tues. Mar. 5 7:30 Martina McBride $30
Wed. Mar. 6 3:30 Neal McCoy $15 & $20Wed. Mar. 6 7:30 Trace Adkins $30
Thu. Mar. 7 10:30 Steve Hall & the Shotgun Red Show FREEThu. Mar. 7 3:30 Mel Tillis $15 & $20Thu. Mar. 7 7:30 Brantley Gilbert $35
Fri. Mar. 8 3:30 T.G. Sheppard/Janie Fricke $15 & $20Fri. Mar. 8 7:30 Scotty McCreery $25 & $30
Sat. Mar. 9 3:30 Gaither Vocal Band $20 & $25Sat. Mar. 9 7:30 Bret Michaels $25 & $30
Sun. Mar. 10 3:30 Sun. Mar. 10 7:30 Blake Shelton $55
Artists Appearing on the Soundstage:
Concert dates and times are subject to change
Limited Free Grandstand Seating Times are 3:30 & 7:30 pm. and are on a first come, first seated basis.
Order: www.fl strawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996
C O M I N G S O O N
MARTINA McBRIDE
ALAN JACKSON SCOTTY McCREERYBLAKE SHELTON
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BRANTLEY GILBERT
PAM TILLIS Grits and Glamour Tour LORRIE MORGAN
Grits and Glamour Tour
CHUBBY CHECKER NEAL McCOY
JANIE FRICKET.G. SHEPPARD
CASTING CROWNS
FOREIGNER
MEL TILLIS
BOBBY VINTON JIMMY STURR AND
HIS ORCHESTRA
GENE WATSON
Steve Hall & the Shotgun Red Show
GAITHER VOCAL BAND
CAROLINE KOLE
RANDY HOUSER
BRET MICHAELS
FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®
FEB. 28 - MAR. 10, 2013 • PLANT CITY, FLORIDA
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FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 5
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Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990
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Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.
So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail [email protected]. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.
FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and many local venues.
Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.
Publisher Mike [email protected]
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Copy Editor Cheryl [email protected]
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Sales Aldo Trevino | Susan Nieves | Joseph Roberts Cindy Cutting | Kayla Sherrard
Art Director Anthony Sassano
Production Intern Abby Born
FOCUSTV Shana Mitchell | Victoria Garren
Distribution Byron SpradlinBelva DeVane
Photographers Nate Mundell Photography
Staff Writers Cheryl JohnstonBrian West | Joe BowlesDerek Maul | Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis | Valerie McCutcheon
Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis
Amidst the joy of readying for the Christmas holy-days, American families had a wake up call in December when a lovely little Connecticut community experienced tragic loss.
And our hearts were broken by the photos, and stories, and sadness of it all. And in our mourning with them, we still feel helpless.
But, thankfully, not hopeless.
Because the truth is, all over America, many communities, cities and citizens are rising up to create precautions so this won’t happen again -- ever. Never!
And on a brighter note in looking ahead, DeDe and I are encouraged by what we noticed as we shopped for gifts in December for our boys, families, and friends.
Did you notice it, too?
People are spending again!! In store after store, we witnessed shopping carts filled with presents and merchandise shelves almost empty well before the holiday. Shoppers seemed on a mission to get that perfect gift before it was no longer available. Shop owners fueled the buying frenzy with great sales specials and lower prices.
Restaurants are busy again as well.
And it seems gas prices have stabilized and even fallen slightly, too. This enabled more folks like us to afford road trips “over the river and through the woods” to visit family or see some sights.
DeDe and I are hoping to do more of that, too. We’re planning a 2013 filled with family trips and memory-making outings. Here’s hoping you’ll be able to do the same.
Our Focus staff is excited about another year to tell your stories, cover your events and help you grow your businesses.
Because of the optimistic buzz zipping through Polk County and the good news you’re sharing about this New Year’s start, we’re expecting a very busy first quarter.
We’ll be busy with business and busy with discovering new ways to reach out and make a difference.
Like Newtown, the people of the Greater Brandon area are known for their acts of kindness and community service. In 2013, may we all do our part to pay the blessings forward.
And in the busy-ness of it all, may we each make time to hold our children a little closer. Let’s make 2013 the year they will never forget.
Mike Floyd - [email protected]
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onthecoverPhotography by Anthony Sassano
97 Country’s Breakfast ClubRoger Todd, Melissa Moran & Tom O’Brien
january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com6
Downtown Festival Grows in its seconD Year written BY: Valerie Mccutcheon
Good vibes and plenty of people filled downtown Winter Haven December 9 as the Second Annual Art & Soul
Festival was held in the parking lot of the Center for Personal Growth at 151 Second Street SW.
Cara Hewett, a licensed mental health counselor and owner of the Center, started the festival last year with the idea that Winter Haven needed to have a fun event that offered Polk County residents exposure to things like clean, organic living and alternative therapy and wellness options. “I wanted it to be a whole mind-body-spirit type of festival,” she explains. “It’s doubled in size now – we have over 50 vendors this year, including more fitness demonstrations and conversations inside the Center about self and spiritual development and personal growth.” Her Center holds many different self-development and personal transformation classes and workshops. Hewett is encouraged by the success of this second event and is already planning for the future. “We’d like to bring independent film and art here eventually,” she says. “We have a lot of possibilities in the works.”
This year, Hewett’s partner in planning and execution was Andrea Cruz, who in addition to her behind the scenes work, also manned her Mariposa Fused Glass booth alongside her husband, The Guacamole Guy. “We travel to events all around Central Florida every weekend, so we have the vendor connections and were able to recruit a lot of people for this event.” Cruz, who has been creating dichroic jewelry for about two years, was excited to help Hewett promote this event. “I really believe in what the Center for Personal Growth is all about. It’s been here for a while and many people don’t even know about it. Alternative ways of being and thinking are around the area, but they are kind of underground. I really wanted to shine a light on this place.” She credits the power of social media for helping to get the word out and contributing to the success of the festival. “A large part of why we do this is to promote small businesses and support local artists. We really wanted to do something that showcases people’s great work.”
Cruz’s husband Sergio, also known as the Guacamole Guy, was set up in the neighboring booth with his edible creations for sale, as well as displaying small avocado trees. He uses the
pits from avocados to plant the trees, creating a sustainable product and “basically planting my resources around the area,” he expounds. His creamy guacamole is made fresh using all natural ingredients, with no sugar, water or additives. He credits helping his mom in the kitchen as a child with what he has been able to achieve today, and he and Andrea are passing that along to their two sons, Alex (15) and Oliver (12). Oliver was present at the festival, selling homemade limeade from organic limes. “This is what we do!” says Cruz. “This is the family business.”
Another precocious teenager with a booth at the festival was 15-year-old Emily Osley who started a foundation, Birds of Hope, to provide clean drinking water to people in impoverished nations after being inspired on a mission trip to Zambia. Emily makes these bird ornaments that she sells for $5 apiece, and t-shirts for $10, and proceeds go towards providing water filters, air filters and a variety of wells in countries like Bangladesh, Swaziland and Haiti. “With clean water, people are obviously healthier, but they can also go to school and go to work because they don’t have to walk for hours to get contaminated water. That’s how we came up with the name – clean water gives them hope for a better future.” The Lakeland homeschooler has made over 7,000 of these birds and has raised over $40,000.
local » Focus
Emily Osley with her Birds of Hope displayPhoto by Valerie McCutcheon
The Cruz FamilyPhoto by Valerie McCutcheon
Art And Soul FeStivAl
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 7
neeD our help to FeeD the hunGrY written BY: cheryl Johnston
the 10-year-old non-profit “Street Angels Help Hunger” organization desperately needs our assistance. The volunteer group
reaches out to meet needs for an increasing number of the unemployed unable to feed their families. Needless to say, those numbers are increasing.
Founder and Director Skyra (Kim) Norris has announced the “Dare to Care” theme for 2013 and is counting on the continuing gratitude of locals who will open their hearts and wallets early this year, because this Christmas especially, many were suffering.
She invites the community to get involved in “fighting hunger in our own back yard.” Continuing, she said, “For it is real, and it is here, and we have to take a stand together as a community to help these families struggling due to job loss.”
“We want people to know hope beyond whatever troubles life brings, and that God has answers.”
Presently, more than 75 families receive groceries during the weekly food pantry distribution on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
On Thursday evenings from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. the team serves the community’s hungry with a hot meal, music, and an encouraging message in the Fellowship Hall at First Christian Church at 29 Seventh Street SW (corner of Central and 7th, one block from the Street
Angel House) in Winter Haven. Additionally, on January 31st, folks will be treated to the music of the 3-piece contemporary Christian band of One for All Ministries of Auburndale from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the same location. Hot dogs, chips, cookies and a beverage will be provided for attendees. Admission is free, but donations will be gladly accepted to restock the food pantry.
Norris would like to specifically thank the Winter Haven Theatre group, which presented a sold-out Christmas production, “Spirit of Giving,” to a packed house on December18 to benefit the food pantry and the volunteers who
helped on December 20 with the annual “Street Angels Bless The Children Christmas Outreach” for single mothers and families with children experiencing tough times.
So what can we do to help? Get involved and “Dare to Care.”
In addition to dropping off donations now and during the January “Dare to Care Week” ( January 14-19 from 9AM - 5:30PM), businesses and groups can organize food pantry drives at their locations or collect monies to assist with emergency needs for bus passes, medical co-pays, and utilities. Needed most are canned goods, dry goods, peanut butter, soup, juice or essentials like toilet paper, laundry soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.
Norris appreciates the local support. “Through local generosity, we are helping as many as we can, one person at a time. And we’ve learned, we can’t all do everything, but we can each do something.”
To bless others in 2013, deliver donations to the Street Angel House at 628 West Central Avenue (behind the Popeye’s Chicken restaurant on US 17) in Winter Haven, phone Skyra at 863-956-0457, or visit www.streetangelhouse.com. Mail monetary contributions to Street Angels, P.O. Box 126, Lake Alfred, FL 33850.
Your help will encourage the Street Angels team in its mission of “Bringing Heaven Down To Earth and Taking It To The Streets.”
local » Focus
Street AngelS
Photo by Skyra Norris
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january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com8
thirD annual Festival helD in lake alFreDwritten BY: Valerie Mccutcheon
the sounds of banjos and fiddles will drift over Lake Alfred all day Saturday, January 12, as the Third Annual
Bluegrass Bash will be held at the Mackay Gardens and Lakeside Preserve from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Presented by The City of Lake Alfred and Joey Foley, the entertainment won’t stop, with performances by Barbwire Bluegrass, Southern Express Bluegrass, Beaumont Family Bluegrass, Dixie Bluegrass Express, and Joey Foley and the Midnight Clogging Express. Admission is free but parking is $5.
Although this is the third year the festival will be held in Lake Alfred, it should have been the fourth. Believe it or not, the first year got snowed out! Local musician and Lake Alfred resident Joey Foley started this festival about 10 years ago in Haines City, up until the renovation of Lake Eva Park. After taking a few years off from that location, Foley approached the City of Lake Alfred and Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Tillman about holding it in his hometown. He suggested Lion’s Park, but the City had a better idea: the newly renovated Mackay Estate and Lakeside Preserve. Built in 1915, this 8,000 square foot brick estate nestled on Lake Rochelle was the home of Scottish entrepreneur and investor Alexander Mackay. Listed on the National Register of
in from Atlanta.” He saw the five-member group at a festival and thought they would be a perfect fit for the Lake Alfred Bash. “This show will be drawing in local folks, but people from all over the state will be gravitating to Lake Alfred for a weekend of great, affordable bluegrass. $5 for parking gets a whole carload of people in. Tickets for the festival where I saw Barbwire Bluegrass were $40 for a day and $70 for a weekend pass. We have a great family show here in
Historic Places, the property was purchased by the city in 2004 and renovated using grant funding, also adding a playground, picnic pavilion, restrooms, fishing pier and nature trails. Available for rent by the City, the open, spacious yard and breathtaking view of the lake makes it the perfect spot to hold the festival.
“We’re expecting about a thousand people to come into town for this event,” says Tillman. “This festival is big for Lake Alfred because it is a great opportunity to enjoy bluegrass music, see our local businesses, and it really shows off the Mackay house in a positive light.” In addition to music, barbecue, and games and bounce houses for kids, visitors can explore the nature preserve and walk the estate’s beautiful nature trails.
Foley, who will be performing with his group the Midnight Clogging Express, has been singing and dancing in Polk County for about 35 years, and his clogging group just celebrated its 20th year. “I’ve beat my feet on every piece of pavement around here!” he exclaims. His involvement with the national bluegrass circuit enabled him to recruit these performers. “Clogging and bluegrass just go hand in hand,” he explains. “We have three local acts but this year we also have our headline group, Barbwire Bluegrass, coming
a beautiful venue and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.”
The event will be held at 900 Mackay Boulevard in Lake Alfred and is also sponsored by TECO, Harvest Meat Market, Wells Fargo and Growers Fertilizer Corporation. For more information, call Jeff Tillman at 863.291.5275, Joey Foley at 863.698.1309 or visit mylakealfred.com.
local » Focus
Barbwire Bluegrass Photo by Barbwire Bluegrass
Dixie Bluegrass ExpressPhoto by Joey Foley
Midnight Clogging Express cloggersPhoto by Joey Foley
Joey Foley and the Midnight Clogging ExpressPhoto by Joey Foley
BluegrASS BASh
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 9
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written BY: cheryl KucK
During the Nov. Lakeland City Commission meeting, commissioners and Lakeland Mayor Gow Fields
recognized police officers and dog teams for their achievements. The K-9 Units won both regional and national competition awards, receiving The United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) ranking as the first and second place four-man K-9 Units in the nation, the top handler and Top Dog in the nation, with four other Lakeland teams scoring in the top 10 of the Top Dog trials against 99 national competing police-and-dog units.
“I am the proudest Police Chief in this nation,” Chief Womack told the audience-packed commission meeting. “I want to commend the group of dogs and handlers for their dedication, service and recognition as the most professional in this county, state and in the entire country.”
During the USPCA National Trials Oct. 15-19 in Punta Gorda, Lakeland Police Officer Ted Sealey, with his K-9, Bruno, won the Top Dog award, as well as first place in criminal apprehension. They were a part of the First Place National Award K-9 Unit that also consisted of Aaron Peterman and K-9 Charief, Cory Bowling and K-9 Riddick and Sgt. Tye Thompson and K-9 Harris.
Chief Womack also thanked the Lakeland Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association for their continued support to the department. “Because of them and the support of the community, we have not had to buy a single dog. They have raised funds to
cover the five to eight thousand dollar cost per animal,” she said.
The Peterman-Charief team took home the top award for obedience and the Mr. Pat Cahill Award for top score in a combination of obedience and criminal apprehension.
Officer Jose Bosque and his K-9 dog Tiberious were a part of the winning second place national K-9 Unit that included Jeff Barrett and K-9 Echo, Ryan Back and K-9 Remy, Rob Manro and K-9 Quanto.
After commission recognition, Officer Bosque accompanied the Sealy-Bruno team to the police department obstacle course where he gave explanations of the intricacies of the course challenges while K-9 and handler, working in perfect concert, demonstrated why they are recognized as best in the nation.
“This is like the Olympics,” Bosque said. “You can’t just start the day before trials. You are always in training and have to be prepared for obstacles in the streets, in and under buildings, over fences, through windows, and searching under scrub brush.
“Officer Sealey came in first place in both regional and national competition because he was steadfastly determined. He was the right handler and with the right, equally determined dog. Dogs need to be obedient, intelligent, totally focused at all times and able to eliminate peripheral noises and distractions, concentrating only on instructions from the handler. They also need to be in prime physical condition with
strong, fully developed hips and elbows with a strong sense of smell that is so important to their work in narcotics.”
A K-9 dog’s rigorous training brings them far above the statistical level of one hundred thousand to one million times a human’s sense of smell.
Sealey mentioned they are looking forward to receiving a new obstacle course next year. “I have a retired K-9 at home now. We are so close with the dogs. They are our partners and family members who stay with us after they are retired.”
Lakeland K-9 teams also won awards in the categories of Individual Trail Placements, Obedience, Agility, Total Search, Criminal Apprehension and Second Handlers Class.
local » Focus
lAkelAnd Police k-9 unit top in nation
K-9 Officer and top handler Ted Sealey put top dog Bruno through his pacesPhoto by Cheryl Kuck
Ted Sealey & Bruno third from leftPhoto by Cheryl Kuck
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 11
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january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com12
True BlueWineryPolk County’s First Winery oPens in DavenPort
story and photos by valerie McCutcheon
Polk County has a reason to celebrate, as they marked a milestone this year when longtime Davenport residents Howard and Fatima Gill opened the True Blue Winery, the first of any kind in the county. With a grand opening that attracted over 500 visitors in late October, they officially opened for business November 2, selling blueberry wines made from the blueberries that they have been growing on their own land for the past four years. Howard, who also owns Gill Manufacturing in Davenport along with his brother David, opened H&F Blueberry Farms with his wife in 2008. The intention was to give Fatima something to do as a hobby that would keep her busy enough that she could retire from the City of Winter Haven. “My husband wanted me to quit my job,” Fatima explained. “But I’m just too hyper, and I can’t just sit around. I needed something to do, so I poured my heart and soul into these blueberries.”
It quickly grew from a hobby into a full-time operation, with the 2,000 plants morphing into over 12,000 on five acres over the past four years. They opened up the farm to the public to pick their own blueberries, but even so, Fatima was still searching for things to do with the berries. “We had about 4,000 plants after the first year,” she said, “Even though we opened it up so that the public could come in to pick their own, we still had so many berries. I didn’t want any to go to waste, so I started making everything from jams and syrups to barbecue sauces, and then finally started making wine about three years ago.” Despite the Gills having no prior experience in winemaking, they were successful enough that they started looking for a way to sell it to the public. After being rezoned for commercial use by the Davenport City Commission, work began about a year ago on the building. Not only is the True Blue Winery the first winery in Polk County, but it is also the first bar to sell alcohol within the Davenport city limits.
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 13
“We’re pioneers in the wine industry here in Polk County. We’ve opened the first bar in Davenport and the first winery in Polk County, so that’s really pretty special. We have a great location here and we’re hoping that this will be a big draw to our little city, as well,” says Howard.
Located next to the post office on Pink Apartments Road, the five-acre farm houses all 12,000 plants in pots as opposed to being planted in the ground, mainly for ease of picking and upkeep. The look of True Blue Winery is a perfect blend of rustic and modern, with a laid-back feel that Howard describes as “redneck elegant.” The building itself where the winery is housed is good-sized, with wood and metal accents throughout the interior, a granite bar, stained glass windows, a custom-designed chandelier and wine bottle decorative accents. High-top tables line the inside with a high-tech jukebox and plenty of room for musicians to set up and provide entertainment. Weather permitting, wander outside and take a seat at a table on the covered back patio flanking a brick pizza oven that gets fired up on evenings and weekends. Lit up at night by twinkling lights, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy conversations, a drink, and some homemade gourmet pizza. They serve pizzas in the evenings and serve small bites like soups and sandwiches, made by Fatima, during the day. In addition to their wine selection, they also offer a variety of bottled and draft beers and soft drinks.
Their original blueberry wine can also be bought by the bottle or the case, with bottles starting at $14.95. The blueberry wine comes in sweet, semi-sweet and dry, and they also have bottles of Citrus, Peach, Muscadine and Orange wines. For a cool treat, try a wine “slushie,” served from a frozen drink machine or buy the mix to make it yourself at home. Also available for purchase are the assorted jams, syrups and sauces that Fatima first experimented with before foraying into winemaking, and souvenir glasses and gifts bearing the True Blue logo.
The Gills currently have a batch of blackberries fermenting and will begin serving a blackberry wine, called Black and Blue, around the middle of this month. Their blueberry crops usually hit peak season around late March or early April, and the farm should be open to the public for picking sometime in April.
The True Blue Winery is an absolutely picturesque location for special events, and the Gills will be renting the site out as a venue for weddings, showers, corporate events, birthday parties and more. They also play host to different musicians and instrumentalists who perform on occasional weekends. A schedule is posted on their website, truebluewinery.com.
The Gills are encouraged by the positive response from the local community so far, and in fact, have had visitors in from all over the state who travel here to sample their wines. They are planning to add more entertainment events throughout the year, and have enjoyed being able to provide a unique experience to this community that they have called home for so many years. “We’re loving it so far. It’s fun to meet all kinds of new people and see new faces, but it’s also given us the opportunity to reconnect with old friends. It’s just a wonderful environment here,” says Fatima. “We can’t wait to see what this year brings.”
january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com14
W I N N I N G L I S T E N E R S A N D A W A R D SINTERVIEW BY BRIAN WEST | PHOTOS BY ANTHONY SASSANO
97 Country WPCV has been a staple in Lakeland and Polk County for many, many years. Their listeners are loyal listeners, and the personalities at the station think of them as family – and they are. This is the type of relationship that arises when you spend so much time with someone, even though it may be as simple as hearing their voices over the air. 2012 was a great year for the 97 Country Breakfast Club. They won a couple of very distinguished awards and even added a new member to the club when Melissa Moran had her � rst child a few months ago.
Focus: Give me a little history about the station.Moran: I know that the station started originally in the orange dome. It was destroyed this year, which is really sad since it was part of WPCV history. � en they found this facility, although I don’t think it was always a two-story building. I think that was an addition. We have all the studios upstairs. It’s been around quite some time, because I know that Tom O’Brien has been around for 18 years.Todd: We’re owned by the Hall family, so it’s a family owned radio group, and we’re very fortunate for that. We’re very blessed to be able to work for them. � e whole family is just fabulous. I mean you look at all the cuts in radio today; so we’re very fortunate to still be able to do what we do.
Focus: What got you into radio?Todd: When I was 16 years old, I was riding the school bus listening to Dancing Don Hall in Wichita, Kansas. I thought, ‘� is guy gets paid to tell jokes.’ He gave the weather and just made people smile. I wanted to do it. My grandfather was a farmer; cattle, corn, chickens, hogs, the whole nine yards. So I was raised on country music. I love the format and never want to leave the format.Moran: I was in college in Philadelphia. When I would procrastinate on doing my projects, I would have the radio on and I just thought, ‘I could do that, and these DJs make a ton of money.’ [laughing] I raced home after a year and did an internship, and then started to get jobs and just fell in love with it.
Focus: So how do most people get into radio? Do they just walk through the door and ask to be on the air?Todd: � at can work. � ere are just so many avenues. You can even go to school for it. A lot of program directors and operations managers are looking for personalities, like DJ � e Trucker. Here’s a guy we pulled o� the street. He has a lot of life experience. He can tell a great story. If you can tell a great story and you’re willing to work for beans, you might have a good shot at radio today.Moran: I would agree with that. I think stations in bigger markets require kids in school to earn college credits to intern for the station. In a medium market station we have a little more � exibility. � at’s how I got my start. Back in Providence, they were a little more � exible and loose on not having to receive college credits, so I slipped through.
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 15
Focus: How long have you been with the station and what brought you here?Todd: Since 2006. I joined with Tom O’Brien. It was the Roger and Tom Show. We had a good time, but we needed a female presence on the show. We searched a long time; about two years, before we � nally found a very talented gal named Melissa Moran, who’s very funny. She’s been a great addition. � en we picked up a guy on the road, no pun intended; DJ � e Trucker. We’re also very fortunate to have 4 people on the 97 WPCV Breakfast Club. With all the cutbacks, how many other shows in central Florida have 4 people? We’re building, and we’re live and local. 97 Country has disc jockeys in the building 24/7, 365 days a year. You won’t � nd that in central Florida, and probably not in the whole state. Moran: I started with the station in 2008. I worked for 93.3 WFLZ in Tampa. � ey decided to replace me with syndicated Ryan Seacrest. I got a call from Mike James, the program director here at 97 Country and he asked if I would consider switching formats. I’d never done country before. So I started listening to the station and then came in to do a few tries at the show. I just gelled with Roger and Tom. It was easy. It was instant chemistry. So I thought, ‘You know, even though I’m not a country girl, I can see myself being a country girl.’ And I love it now. I can’t imagine my life without this station, or without country music.
Focus: How do you explain the chemistry between the four of you?Todd: You don’t � nd this chemistry everywhere you go. � ere are partners that don’t gel. You’ve got to get here at four o’clock in the morning and you’ve got to get along so it comes across on the show that you like each other and you really want to be here in the morning, waking central Florida up. So that chemistry is really cool.Moran: As a listener, you can hear tension on the air. And sometimes we create that tension, only because the longer you do it, you tend to become like an old married couple. You know what each others hot buttons are, but sometimes its fun to press them on air. Todd: Did I do that this morning, Melissa?Moran: Yes.Todd: Do you want to tell him what you did?Moran: You mean what my husband did. My husband spent two and a half hours in line to get a TV on Black Friday. Roger made fun of us, because my husband ended up returning the TV because he hated it.Todd: It slipped out of her mouth this morning during the
show. I was like, ‘Wait a minute. Is that the one where he stood in line?”
Focus: How has the business evolved?Todd: For a lot of stations, not including us, it’s like a jukebox. How can anybody in the community get the information they need that morning, that day, in Lakeland or central Florida if the station is just a jukebox? If we have a freeze or a hurricane, we’re going to be here. A lot of other stations just keep rolling that music, and there’s nothing wrong with good country music. But when there’s an emergency, or you need to get some information to help keep your family safe, or where to take the kids for the holiday or on break, we’re going to have that information for you. A lot of the other stations aren’t.Moran: Other stations have national contesting. You may be listening here in Lakeland, Florida, but the contest is open to everyone in the country. So what are your odds of winning that contest? At 97 Country, we stay as local as possible and each of our contests are open to 97 Country listeners, and that’s it. So your odds of winning are great, and we have some really awesome prizes.Todd: And you can take us with you around the world on-line at www.wpcv.com or on the App on your smart phone. So we’ve evolved with the rest of the industry, but we serve Lakeland and central Florida.
Focus: Tell me what you enjoy most about your show and each other.Moran: Keeping everything local helps to tie us in with the community. We’re not just talking about the national water cooler type things, we are, but we’re also adding another layer onto that talking about things right here in Polk County.Todd: We have a philanthropy; the 97 Country Breakfast Club Kids. It’s cool that we get to help make a di¢ erence in the lives of kids right here in Polk County with Kids Pack. We also have the St. Jude Radiothon to help give kids hope as they battle cancer. During the Christmas season we have Toys for Tots with the Marine Corps Reserves. We also do Stu¢ the Bus in the fall to help kids with their school supplies for the new school year. So we help people in the community. If we can help put a smile on their face, hopefully make them laugh, then we’ve done our job.Moran: We mention all of these programs because its fun to get our hands in it and actually see the people we’re helping, instead of just throwing our e¢ orts out to some national charity. And we have so much fun together in the morning.Todd: We never know what’s going to happen. We were at
the Christmas Parade the other night, and we’d been talking on the air about how sometimes you go through the parade and there’s that guy who sits there like this (arms crossed with a scowl on their face). DJ and I said we were going to take pictures of those people. So during the parade this guy yells out, “Hey Roger!” and he goes into character because he heard us. So he responded. So hopefully we’re able to enrich the lives of our listeners a little bit.
Focus: Are there any memorable moments from the show that you can share?Moran: Usually my memorable moments involve me crying. It was touching for me when I announced that I was pregnant. � ere were a lot of emotions wrapped up in it. My mother had passed, and it was shortly after that when I found out I was pregnant. As was telling the story I just started wailing. � en the outpouring from the listeners was just overwhelming. It was really, really nice.Todd: One of my favorite country artists, Brad Paisley, recently called to tell us we’d won a Country Music Association Award for Best Morning Personality. We love Brad. I had an opportunity to interview him when he was just getting started and I’ve followed his career. When he called, he said something like, “We’re not sure how this happened. � ere weren’t many entries, but you’ve won Broadcast Personalities of the Year.” � at was memorable. And about a week before that DJ � e Trucker had someone call saying they were Brad Paisley, but it wasn’t. I hollered and screamed like a girl. And in April, Melissa called me while I was driving home and said, “Have you heard?” We won the Academy of Country Music Award for On-Air Personality of the Year.
Focus: And of course there are bonuses and/or pay raises coming your way for winning these awards?Moran: [Laughing] Our bonuses are that we get to keep our jobs. We’re very fortunate to be working here.Todd: [Laughing] We love the people we work with and for. Seriously, it’s [our success] all because of our listeners.
It’s easy to see why the 97 Country Breakfast Club has been so successful. � ey did a good bit of laughing during our time together, but they had me laughing too. � ey’re so easy to talk to, genuine and down-to-earth, and their listeners have noticed. Congratulations on your awards and we wish you the best of luck and continued success.
R O G E R T O D D M E L I S S A M O R A N T O M O ’ B R I E N
january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com16
Business proFile » Focus
BoB Miller And re/MAX PArAMount ProPertieS
up families with the perfect homes, something he’s able to accomplish simply through close observation of and communication with families. In other words, Miller takes the extra time and effort to truly understand the desires of his clients. In fact, the best part of his job is seeing parents get excited as they walk around a potential home while their kids immediately head to the backyard to play, as if they’ve already lived there for years.
“I really like to find the right house for the right family,” said Miller. “I don’t want to jam people into a home when I know it’s not going to be the right fit. I want to make sure a family feels safe, secure, and right at home…I’m most proud of the fact that I can help people realize the dream of homeownership.”
Maybe Miller is so successful helping families because he’s able to relate to their situations. A family man himself, Miller’s biggest fan is his loving wife, who actually inspired him to pursue a career in the real estate business. Through his hard work, Miller’s wife is able to care for their autistic son and serve as a chair member for the Polk Exceptional Student Education Advisory board.
“We make a great team,” said Miller.
By continuing to provide excellent service, Miller knows 2013 can be just as successful as 2012. His goal is to be the number one real estate office in Polk County in terms of sales and quality service, which he will achieve by his no-nonsense blue-collar approach of “rolling up my sleeves and getting the job done.”
real estate is usually a lopsided industry where it’s either a prime time to buy or a suitable time to sell. Yet current and
future Polk County homeowners have an opportunity to engage in unique real estate market conditions. Because interest rates are so low, there’s never been a better time to buy a home. On the other hand, low inventory in Lakeland and surrounding Polk County communities like Auburndale, Winter Haven, and Mulberry makes right now a perfect time to sell for top dollar profits. When you’re ready to buy or sell property, contact Bob Miller of Lakeland’s RE/MAX Paramount Properties.
Purchasing a home is one of the most important decisions any individual can make in a lifetime. Therefore, you’ll want the expertise of only the most qualified real estate agents on your side.Not only is Miller, a 1988 Lake Gibson High School graduate, extremely knowledgeable of the Polk County area, but he is also a highly qualified real estate agent. In 2011, for example, Miller became a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) through the National Association of Realtors.
As a CRS, Miller gains a huge advantage over his competitors, as only 3 percent of realtors nationwide have obtained Certified Residential Specialist qualifications. In order to be a CRS, Miller had to take over 80 credit hours of National Association of Realtors courses covering various real estate topics and situations. Miller also chose to complete 20 credits of additional coursework, allowing him to obtain specializations in Senior Real Estate, Short Sales and Foreclosures, and Resort and Second Home Markets.
“I can pretty much handle it all,” said Miller.
These elite qualifications allowed Miller to achieve great success in 2012—just his sixth year as a real estate agent—as he sold over 55 homes, calculating to more than one sale a week. However, the real key to Miller’s continued success is his innate ability to match
written BY: aManDa FurMaGe-DecK
Bob MillerRE/MAX Paramount Properties
2600 S. Florida Ave.Lakeland, FL 33803
Office Phone: 863-680-3322Direct Line: 863-899-9324
Website: www.bobmiller.remaxagent.com
inForMation
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 17
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All Deli Sandwiches and Hoagies are cut fresh to order
Breakfast served all day!!
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♦Reuben and Pastrami sandwiches on grilled NY Rye
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january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com18
FiShing eXPeditionSi had the pleasure of taking Joey Roberts
from Focus Magazine and his guest Tiffany Logan for this month’s FOCUS On
Fishing report. Tiffany is a well known figure in the community as the Executive Director of the Downtown Lakeland Partnership. Let me tell you, she can fish…
Tiffany and Joey met me at the Hernando Beach Boat Ramp for a few hours of fishing in hopes of catching some shallow water grouper and cobia. I decided that I would take them to a shallow rock pile in 10ft of water. After a short rough ride due to the strong 10-15 mph north winds, we got on the pile. We were armed with a selection of Bull Bay Rods, Threadfins herrings for cut bait and live creek grubs (grouper candy).
It was not long after anchoring down that Tiffany landed her first Gag Grouper (24in), fishing the rock pile with cut bait on a knocker rig. Joey was throwing around
a special grub tail that he had brought and within a few casts he lost it due to a toothy critter. As I was hooking Joey up with a new rig Tiffany’s rod was bent over again and this time she brought a 30in Bull Redfish to the boat, which happened to be her 1st Redfish ever. She landed it on a Bull Bay Brut Force rod and cut threadfins on the bottom.
Tiffany was the angler of the trip, she was getting it done. As she landed a monster 40 27lb Bull Red, to finish the trip off, she also brought GAGZILLA to the boat. It was a 35in Gag, the thing was a beast. Due to the Grouper closures in effect and all Redfish being over the legal 27in limit, we released all fish to be caught again. We did not catch a large quantity of fish. However, the ones caught were high quality and Tiffany should be proud of her 1st Redfish and Grouper. Many anglers can only dream of fish like that. GOOD JOB and thanks for allowing me to be part of that.
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january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com20
hAvAnA delightS cAFéif you’re walking down Main Street in
downtown Bartow, you’ll smell Havana Delights before seeing it. Located directly
across the street from the Polk County Historical Museum, owners Alfredo and Christine Saltos have brought authentic Cuban food to Polk County by way of Miami. Married for 27 years with two sons and a brand new grandson, they moved to Lakeland from Miami about 11 years ago, where they opened the first Havana Delights. When their lease ended and an opportunity arose to buy the space in Bartow, they moved the restaurant to its current location about five years ago.
The atmosphere inside is warm and inviting. Orange walls are adorned with all sorts of antiques; from a framed set of WWII ration cards and stamps to vintage movie posters and an antique stove. Using recipes handed down from both of their Cuban grandmothers, the Saltos do plenty of their own cooking but have also trained four employees to use their recipes and measurements. “I still have an old book from my grandmother, but I’ve changed some things here and there to improve them I think, even though my grandma might be rolling in her grave!” Christine laughs. “We cook everything from scratch,” she continues. “Our pork is roasted for 12-14 hours with homemade mojo seasoning, and I bake all the bread for the sandwiches.” They’ve become well known for this fall-off-the-bone tender, delicious roast pork.
The melt-in-your-mouth fresh bread and roasted pork highlights their authentic Cuban sandwich. Variations include the Miami Sandwich with chorizo and a Medianoche, served on sweet bread. Although their menu devotes an entire page to sandwiches, they are more than just a sandwich shop. One of their best sellers is the shredded beef delicacy ropa vieja, and of course, the traditional Cuban staple, arroz con pollo (chicken and rice). They’ve made this seemingly simple-sounding dish into something mouthwateringly flavorful and beautifully presented. The yellow of the rice contrasts nicely with the red peppers and green peas, and its beauty is topped only by the taste. We cleaned every morsel off our plate!
Their exterior sign also touts their Deviled Crab. “We’ve been making them fresh for about two years, and can’t keep up with the demand,” says Alfredo. Real lump crab meat (always fresh, never imitation) is sautéed with seasoned onions, peppers, tomato sauce and wine, breaded using the crumbs from Christine’s fresh baked loaves, and then deep fried. “Word’s gotten around – I usually don’t even have time for my bread to go stale to make the breadcrumbs, because they sell so fast!” Customers come in to order anywhere from 40 to 175 deviled crabs at a time!
A great deal of their business is in catering. They do many parties and cater lunches to nearby Mosaic a few times a week, and have plenty of traffic from the area police and fire departments. They even do the occasional traditional Cuban pig roast!
The secret to their success is more than just great food. “Our customers become like family to us,” says Alfredo. “We cook the same way we would if you were invited to our house.” Their passion for food and their business is apparent. “We don’t get up in the morning thinking we’re going to work – it just feels like we’re going to our second home.” Although their 13-year-old son Eric says he isn’t sure he wants to take over the family business yet, he is a big fan of the arroz con pollo and homemade chicken nuggets from the kid’s menu!
They offer a lunch buffet weekdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for $8.95. They do not have a liquor license, but you can BYOB. If you’re anywhere near the Bartow area, you won’t want to miss this truly delightful café. A sign on their wall says it best: “Come as a guest, leave as family!” And stuffed. You’ll also leave stuffed.
DininG & entertainment » DininG proFile
authentic cuBan FooD in Downtown Bartow written BY: Valerie Mccutcheon
Havana Delights Café(863) 533-6947
155 E. Main St., Bartow Dine In/Take Out/Catering
Credit Cards AcceptedKids Menu Available
Price range: $4.99 to $8.95
inForMation
Arroz Con Pollo, a specialtyvPhoto by: Valerie McCutcheon
The Saltos FamilyPhoto by: Valerie McCutcheon
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 21
Polk county calenDaroF events
entertainment » event calenDar
Email your upcoming event to: [email protected], JAnuAry 4» Pickin’ In the Park5:30 - 8 pmFree Community Sing-Along Downtown Central Park, Winter Haven
» First Friday: Wellness Fair6 – 9 pmDowntown LakelandFree!
SAturdAy, JAnuAry 5» Family Fun and Fitness at the Fountain9 – 11 amWellness instructors from Habitat Health and Fitness lead exercisesCentral Park, Winter Havenmywinterhaven.com
» Main Street Market Day9 am – 1 pmVirginia Miller Park, Winter Haven
» Cruisin’ Winter Haven4 – 9 pmDowntown Winter Haven
SAturdAy, JAnuAry 5 - MondAy, JAnuAry 7» Lakeland Winter SectionalUSTA Florida sponsored and sanctioned junior tennis tournament featuring state and international players.1000 E. Edgewood Dr., Lakelandustaflorida.com
» Free Live Info Session For Teacher Certification12 – 3 pmJoin the American Board and learn more about becoming a certified teacher in Florida100 Lake Morton Dr., Lakelandabcte.org
thurSdAy, JAnuAry 10» Economic Forecast Breakfast7 - 9 am701 W. Lime St., Lakeland863-688-8551
» Mobile One Stop9 am – 4 pmProvided by Polk Works, case workers will be on site to help with resumes, assessing job skills, job applications, food stamp applications, counseling services, unemployment claims and more.325 Avenue A NW, Winter Havenwhpl.mywinterhaven.com
» Stories of Florida – Con Sabor!5:30 pmStoryteller Carrie Sue Ayvar tells Florida tales in English and Spanish to celebrate Florida’s 500th Anniversary325 Avenue A NW, Winter Havenwhpl.mywinterhaven.com
thurSdAy, JAnuAry 10 – SAturdAy, JAnuAry 12» 12 O’Clock High8:30 am – 5 pmWorldwide model aviation event featuring RC reproduction warbird aircraft that flew from 1914 to 1954.3900 Don Emerson Dr., Lakelandfranktiano.com
FridAy, JAnuAry 11» Girls Night: The Musical8 pm701 W. Lime St., Lakelandthelakelandcenter.com
SAturdAy, JAnuAry 12» Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade and Unity Festival10 am Parade kicks off from Lily Ave in Haines City, followed by the Unity Festival on Cook Field with food, speakers and entertainment. ci.haines-city.fl.us
» 2013 Lake Alfred Bluegrass Bash11 am – 9 pm900 Mackay Blvd., Lake Alfred863-291-5275
tueSdAy, JAnuAry 15» The Big Read!5:30 pmInformal discussion of the works of Edgar Allen Poe325 Ave A NW, Winter Havenwhpl.mywinterhaven.com
WedneSdAy, JAnuAry 16» Don Williams7:30 pm701 W. Lime St., Lakelandthelakelandcenter.com
FridAy, JAnuAry 18 And SAturdAy, JAnuAry 19» Famous Tate Pro Rodeo Classic8 pmThe Lakeland Center - Jenkins Arena701 W. Lime St., Lakelandthelakelandcenter.com
FridAy, JAnuAry 18 - SundAy, JAnuAry 20» Independent Softball Association Adult Winter Nationals Men’s A and Men’s Eisasoftball.com863-519-7127
FridAy, JAnuAry 18 – MondAy, JAnuAry 21» Florida State Soccer Association’s Florida ClassicFSAA’s premier international tournament with more than 80 teams (age 18 and up) expected to participate. 2701 Lake Myrtle Park Rd., Auburndalefloridastatesoccer.com
SAturdAy, JAnuAry 19» Hope for Haiti 5K Run and Walk8 amRaising awareness and funds to support free school in Chauffard, Haiti$20 to register175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland863-698-4352cpihaiti.org
» Bok Tower’s Winter Dog Day9 am – 12 pmContest, grooming tips, health, safety and adoption information available. 50% of proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Polk County. 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Walesboktowergardens.org
» Downtown Bridal Expo Winter Wedding Show12 – 4 pmPolk County’s most unique bridal eventFree admissionVendors: visit downtownbridalexpo.com2200 Ewell Rd., Lakeland863-899-3978
» Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show4:30 pm 40 minute free show at MLK Jr. Park on Lake Silver
» A Night at the Opera7 pmAnnual ISO Fundraiser. Fully staged opera with all professional leads and live orchestra. Branscomb Auditorium at FSC111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakelandimperialsymphony.org
SundAy, JAnuAry 20» The Ultimate Fashion Experience to Benefit At-Risk Youth6 pmShow pairs professional runway models with aspiring models and community participants. $25/general admission, $45/VIPLake Mirror Center, S. Lake Ave., LakelandMlk13.eventbrite.com
tueSdAy, JAnuAry 22» Englebert Humperdinck7:30 pm701 W. Lime St., Lakelandthelakelandcenter.com
FridAy, JAnuAry 25» Vince Gill8 pm701 W. Lime St., Lakeland
FridAy, JAnuAry 25 – SundAy, JAnuAry 27» Independent Softball Association Adult Winter Nationals Men’s C and Men’s Disasoftball.com863-519-7127
SAturdAy, JAnuAry 26» Gathering of Angels6:30 pmTheatre Winter Haven’s largest fundraiser, held at the Ritz on Central. Dinner, dancing, silent auction. 263 W. Central Ave., Winter Haven863-299-2672theatrewinterhaven.com
» Monsignor John P. Caulfield Legacy Dinner6:30 pmHosted by St. Joseph’s Pastoral Leadership Council to support St. Joseph’s Academy1300 Eaglebrooke Blvd., Lakelandstjosephlakeland.org863-701-0101
thurSdAy, JAnuAry 31» Taste of Haines City5 – 7 pmLake Eva Banquet HallSamples from the area’s finest restaurants, proceeds benefit Thunder on the Ridge. $25/person, includes free beer/wine/soft drinks. Under 5: free799 Johns Avenue, Haines Cityci.haines-city.fl.us
ongoing eventS:January 2 – 12In Vibrant Color: Vintage celebrity Portraits from the Harry Warnecke Studio10 am – 5 pm Tuesday – Saturday, 1 – 5 pm Sundays, closed MondaysSmithsonian Exhibition at Polk Museum of Art$5/adults, $4/seniors, kids and students free800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland
TUESDAYSFree Clogging Lessons8:30 pm Lessons by Mary Lou Bradley, former Grand Old Opery clogging champion with the Bluegrass BuddiesAcropoli Italian Bistro, 28087 US Hwy 27, Dundee863-421-0334
THURSDAYSDowntown Farmers’ Market8 am – 5 pmDowntown Trailhead Park, Winter Haven
Parkour and Freerunning Training4:30 pmBarnett Park, Lakeland 863- 808-9516
2nd and 4th SATURDAYSaturday Afternoon Movie2 p.m.Winter Haven Public Library Multi-purpose RoomFree admission863-291-5880
january 2013 focuspolkcounty.com22
PARAMOUNT PROPERTIES
L E T ’ S T A L K R E A L E S T A T E !
Q. What is the Difference between a Short Sale, a Foreclosure, and a Deed in Lieu?
In a Short Sale the bank agrees to take a lesser amount for the home than what is owed on a loan. Most of the time the bank will waive it’s right to seek a deficiency. (This should be negotiated with your lender and a qualified Realtor can help with that) These properties typically take up to 120 days to close because the lender and other creditors that have liens on the property will have to agree to the sales price and the payoff amount. If a bank refuses to waive the deficiency in a short sale, it still would have to go back to court to seek a judgment.
A Foreclosure is a specific legal process in which a lender attempts to recover the balance of a loan from a borrower who has stopped making payments to the lender by forcing the sale of the asset used as the collateral for the loan. If a bank refuses to waive the deficiency in a foreclosure, at the end of the proceeding a deficiency judgment is automatically awarded by the courts and the bank is free to seek a claim.
A Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure is an agreement you reach with your lender, where you give the property back to the lender. You transfer the deed and the lender agrees not to foreclose. Sometimes you have to repay the loan balance and sometimes you don’t. This is something an experienced Realtor can help you negotiate because the requirements can be unique to each situation for example: FHA rules state the home in question must be owner-occupied unless there is documentation to prove loan default was related to the need to vacate the property. That need can include job loss, divorce or other circumstances. The borrower and lender must agree to terms in writing as to the condition of the property and the terms of the deed-in-lieu. Investment properties are not eligible for a deed-in-lieu agreement and a short sale option might be better. Your Realtor should be able to tell you what your options are.
Q. The home I want to purchase needs repairs. Is there a way to get the bank to help with that?
I would look into a Streamline 203(k) mortgage. The “Streamline”(K) Limited Repair Program permits homebuyers to finance an additional $35,000 into their mortgage to improve or upgrade their home before move-in. With this product, homebuyers can quickly and easily tap into cash to pay for property repairs or improvements, such as those identified by a home inspector or FHA appraiser. Go to the U.S. Dept of Housing and Urban Development website and look for the Streamline 203(k) Mortgage, or if your Facebook savvy they have a page as well. Ask your Realtor for a list of people in your area that are an Approved 203k Consultant.
REMAX PARAMOUNT PROPERTIES 863-815-8000
BOB MILLERRealtor since 2006
National Associations of Realtors CertificationsCRS (Certified Residential Specialist)
SFR (Short Sale and Foreclosure)RSPS (Resort and Second
Home Specialist)ABR (Accredited Buyers Representative)
Sold more than 60 homes in 2012
FOCUS Magazine pOlk COUnty january 2013 23
For more information on these events or to register, call the Winter Haven Hospital Health Connection: 863-291-6705 or 1-800-416-6705.
AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE
Saturday, February 16th, 2013 • 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
An AffAir of the heArt LAdies Luncheon
Friday, February 1st, 2013 • 12:00 p.m.Winter Haven Hospital’s
Regency Center for Women & Infants Wellness Classroom
101 Avenue O Southeast • Winter Haven
Speaker: Sirisha P. Reddy, M.D. - Cardiologist
Admission is free but space is limited;registration required.
heArt heALtheVeninG Lecture
Thursday, February 21st, 2013 • 6:30 p.m.Winter Haven Hospital
Auditorium200 Avenue F Northeast • Winter Haven
Speaker: Gary Johnson, M.D. - Cardiologist
Refreshments provided & lab results distributed.Admission is free but space is limited;
registration encouraged.
The Winter Haven HospitalBostick Heart Center health fair
will be held at theWinter Haven Hospital
Volunteer Auxiliary Grande Lobby200 Avenue F Northeast, Winter Haven
(Optional Blood Analysis for a $35lab fee - registration required.)
All participants receive free health screenings andvaluable health information:
• Blood Pressure Checks• Balance Screenings• ABI to evaluate Peripheral Arterial Disease
• Body Mass Index (BMI)• Stroke Risk Assessment
heALth fAir& free heALth
screeninGs
HEART SMARTDays
Andy Thornal Company has been collecting and brokering Fine, Estate and Antique Jewelry for 68 years. We have a large collection of antique jewelry to admire or acquire. • We specialize in Victorian,
Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Retro Era Jewelry, as well as current fine Jewelry by some of the top Jewelry Designers in the world. • We offer jewelry and watch repair as well as custom design services.
