 The Polk State College District Board of Trustees named Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas as the institution’s sixth president on Wednesday with a 5-0 vote.
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 The two new employees at Winter Haven Hospital and Winter Haven Women’s Hospital are very friendly. No, they can’t tell you their names, and no, they don’t talk much, but they are all about helping their fellow team members.
Starting in June, Watson Clinic is pleased to offer a series of resuscitation classes that are open to the public.
 Florida summers aren’t just hot — they’re getting hotter. New research from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences shows the number of 91-degree days has steadily increased over the past six decades, with even more extreme heat expected in the years ahead.
 The 2025–2026 school year was momentous for Take Stock in Children Polk County, a Polk Education Foundation program, marked by a 100 percent graduation rate, major scholarship announcements for seniors, and the Scholarship Scramble surpassing $1 million raised in its 23-year history.
Central Florida Ford Dealership Celebrates Multiple Awards: Wins President’s Awards for 27th Time6/9/2026  Bartow Ford Company, who celebrated 78 years in business on April 1, has more reasons to celebrate.
United Way of Central Florida welcomed more than 275 community leaders, partners, and supporters to its 2026 Annual Celebration on May 14 at Bonnet Springs Park, highlighting a year of measurable impact across Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties while honoring local leaders whose service continues to strengthen Central Florida.
Polk County Public Schools is seeking nominations for our District Advisory Council (DAC) for the 2026-2027 school year.
 The 2025–2026 school year was momentous for Take Stock in Children Polk County, a Polk Education Foundation program, marked by a 100 percent graduation rate, major scholarship announcements for seniors, and the Scholarship Scramble surpassing $1 million raised in its 23-year history. With 129 students supported through nearly 1,000 hours of mentoring and a wide range of enrichment and community-driven opportunities, the program advanced its mission in meaningful ways.
Last year began with a major milestone in October 2025, when the Kiwanis Club of Citrus Center co-hosted with Polk Education Foundation to present the 23rd Annual Scholarship Scramble golf tournament that benefits Take Stock in Children Polk County. Through the partnership, longstanding community support, and generous local business sponsorships, the event surpassed the $1 million mark in total funds raised for Take Stock scholarships since the tournament was first established. Stop by KT's Attic for their Memorial Day Weekend Sale happening from Friday, May 22nd to Sunday, May 24th!
HISTORY WALL INSTALLED IN LOBBY OF ORLANDO HEALTH WATSON CLINIC LAKELAND HIGHLANDS HOSPITAL5/20/2026  When Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital opens this summer, patients can enjoy an informative first floor lobby display recounting the historical highlights of both organizations.
 Polk Education Foundation has been awarded an $80,000 grant from GiveWell Community Foundation in honor of Mabel Schaefer’s legacy.
Polk County Public Schools has been named a Guy Harvey Conservation District for the 2025-2026 school year, signifying the school system’s commitment to environmental education through teacher professional development, experiential learning and environmental leadership.
Join The Center for Functional Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine for their grand opening and ribbon cutting on Monday, June 1, 2026 starting at 1:30 p.m.
The Polk Education Foundation received a generous $50,000 investment from Suncoast Credit Union, strengthening multiple programs and initiatives that directly support students, teachers, and schools across Polk County.
The Polk State College Presidential Search Committee convened its final meeting on Tuesday, May 12, and announced the selection of Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas as the recommended finalist to serve as Polk State College’s sixth president.
 Watson Clinic is pleased to announce the following upcoming lecture scheduled for the month of June. This event is free of charge, but seating is limited.
United Way of Central Florida will host its Annual Celebration Luncheon to highlight the organization’s impact over the past year and honor outstanding community volunteers with annual awards.
Polyglass is hiring and they are looking for dependable candidates to join their team. If you are interested in hands-on work with real growth potential, this is your chance to get in front of a hiring team face-to-face.
 A pair of key bats toward the top of the Polk State Softball lineup were recognized on Monday with All-Citrus Conference distinction.
 The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce is looking for a passionate, creative, and organized Marketing & Events Manager to join our team! This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves building community connections, and enjoys bringing events, campaigns, and ideas to life. If you’re ready to make an impact and be part of a team dedicated to strengthening Winter Haven, we’d love to hear from you! Click here to see the job description.
To apply, please send your resume to Betsy at [email protected]. The application will close Friday, May 15th at 5:00 p.m.  Local business owners, we want to hear from you! Each year, the City of Winter Haven issues approximately 70 bid opportunities for goods and services ranging from everyday essentials to major construction projects.
 After earning All-Citrus Conference honors last week, a pair of Polk State Baseball freshmen were recognized at the state level on Thursday evening.
 Polk County Fire Rescue’s dedication to exceptional prehospital care earned the organization the coveted American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS® Gold Award for a second year in a row.
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