 Last night we gathered at Nora Mayo Hall to kick off our 2022 Celebrate Winter Haven event! This year, we awarded the 97th Banker's Cup Citizens of the Year, the Small & Large Business of the Year and even introduced a brand new award, The Entrepreneur Award. And, we can't forget, the passing of the gavel from Chamber Chairwoman, Jennifer Fasking to our 2022-2023 Chamber Chairwoman, Dr. Angela Falconetti. It was a fabulous evening to celebrate all of the things happening in Winter Haven and the people who are making it happen.
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 Polk State President Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis on Friday, September 16, 2022, to serve as member of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group. President Garcia Falconetti will support Secretary Dr. Eric Hall of the Department of Juvenile Justice in the advancement of Florida’s System alongside Advisory Group members.
Emily Rogers Consulting + Coaching launches Leadership Essentials On-Demand Micro-learning Series9/14/2022  Emily Rogers Consulting + Coaching announces launch of new on-demand leadership development tool.
Leadership Essentials is designed to provide leaders with the most “essential” skills needed to improve their leadership effectiveness and impact. Topics we frequently discuss with our clients are included and useful for all levels of leadership from first-time managers to C-suite executives. A one-year subscription is $129.00 and includes six, 5-minute episodes accessible anytime, anywhere. Each episode includes an engaging audio recording, a downloadable handout, links to supplement resources, and the opportunity to record key takeaways to ensure retention. Leadership Essentials is available now at https://emilyrogers.com/resources/leadership-essentials/ Subscriptions also include access to quarterly bonus episodes and the opportunity to participate in live virtual Leadership Essentials gatherings facilitated by Emily. Emily Rogers Consulting + Coaching exists to help organizations and individuals grow and realize their full potential in purposeful and balanced ways. Bartow Ford Company is hosting a luncheon to honor the heroes of Polk County – local law enforcement. Local law enforcement agents from around the county will be the guests of honor, and they will be served a barbecue lunch from 11 AM to 1 PM on October 6, 2022, at the dealership. While the lunch is for law enforcement personnel only, the public is invited to show their support for the heroes who protect us daily.
 Polk State College has announced the return of its on-campus Hispanic Heritage Month festivities which will begin with the Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off on September 15 at noon in the Lakeland Technology Building at 3425 Winter Lake Road. The event will feature Polk County Public Schools Superintendent Frederick Heid as keynote speaker as well as food and performances. The event is free and open to the public.
Come celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Fire Prevention WeekTM at LEGOLAND Florida Resort when the National Fire Prevention Association presents Heroes Weekend! During this three-day-only special event, families can meet LEGO® Policeman, see the firefighter stilt walkers, help build a LEGO City mosaic, learn the best ways to stay safe and hear how to become a hero too!
Press Release provided by: Tinsley Creative  Citizens Bank & Trust held a groundbreaking ceremony August 26 for the Bank’s Plant City office, located on James L. Redman Parkway near Johnson Road. The new site marks the first newly-constructed building outside Polk County in the Bank’s 102-year history. “We are honored to be expanding our commitment to Plant City with a new building in the growing Trapnell area,” said Greg Littleton, President and CEO of Citizens Bank & Trust.
 Last night we gathered at the Bartow Civic Center to honor the young professionals across Polk County making a difference in their communities. We had the privilege of honoring 21 nominees this year, as well as the 5 recipients of the night. The 2022 Polk Emerging Leaders Awards recipients were Antionette Pollard, Chad Barron, Kevin Albaum, Nick Plott and Lauren Albaum.
 Before the pitter-patter of little feet came running onto campus for the first day of school, State Farm collaborated with the Garden Grove team, a local plant nursery and Polk County Public School Liaison, Steve Warner, to transform the school's entrance to make a perfect welcome for parents, students and staff. This makes Garden Grove the 6th school to benefit from State Farm's generous heart and collaborative spirit. 30 volunteers from State Farm came out to weed, hedge, plant new plants, spread mulch and clean up the property to make it look brand new. Steve Warner expressed how community oriented these initiatives are, saying, "These projects always feels like when your neighbors from around your neighborhood get together to help you beautify your home."
 This week, State Farm Corporate donated over 160 backpacks to Wahneta Elementary School with the help of Polk County Public School Liaison, Steve Warner. All State Farm employees in Central Florida were invited to participate by going on Amazon to pick and purchase backpacks for these much deserving students. State Farm's Jennifer Dorris shared with us how proud they are to support local schools in this way. "We are proud to support Wahneta Elementary for State Farm’s third annual back to school drive benefitting Polk County Schools! Our employees love the opportunity to give back to our local community and had so much fun picking out backpacks for the students! We appreciate the partnership and can’t wait to hear how the students like their new gear!"
Nilda Caraballo, Principal of Wahneta Elementary expressed her gratitude saying, "Thank you for your support and providing students at Wahneta Elementary with amazing book bags. The smiles you all brought to their faces were priceless. Thanks a million for your generosity!"  Last week, 381 teachers showed up for a FREE Teacher Pop-Up Market. Polk County Public School Liaisons, Steve Warner and Betsy Cleveland, collaborated with the leadership team at Freedom Tour to give teachers FREE supplies for their classrooms. Teachers walked away with bags full of classroom decorations, pens, notebooks, hand sanitizer and so much more. While supply drives are popular for our students, it's very rare to see an event that's all about equipping our teachers with the supplies they need to give their students the best year ever. Check out this video to see what a success it was!
Press Release Provided By: Polk State College  A seasonal staple will return to Polk State College this fall. The College will hold its annual FallFest on Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Upwards of 100 locals, businesses, and College clubs will set up booths all throughout the Winter Haven Campus with exciting, seasonal, and innovative homemade arts, crafts, and products.
After a two-year hiatus related to COVID-19, FallFest will be held for the 36th year. The event is free and open to the public with fees from craft booths going to the Polk State College Foundation to benefit the College’s deserving students. The Foundation supports the College’s educational mission in many ways, including establishing scholarships and purchasing equipment for students. “This is an event the community has looked forward to every year,” said Nancy Lozell, Program Manager for The Arts at Polk State. “There’s always such a wide variety of arts, crafts, and things to do.” The event will also feature family-friendly activities such as games, haunted houses, bounce houses, shows, and presentations from local law enforcement and EMS. Polk State College clubs and athletics programs will also participate in the event to raise money for their organizations by hosting different activities and food sales. “The whole campus will be transformed,” Lozell added. “It’s always great fun for the whole family.” There will be live music and other entertainment throughout the day, including Polk State’s Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and the Polk State Choir. Chain O’ Lakes Big Band will also be among the event’s performers. For $60, vendors will be assigned a booth on campus. Limited spots are available inside the Student Center for $70. For business vendors looking to promote their business, the cost is $150. Registration will remain open until Oct. 1. More information, including how to register or volunteer for the event, is available by contacting Lozell at 863.297.1050 or by emailing fallfest@polk.edu. The FallFest office is located in the Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Building, room WFA 147A. Press Release Provided By: Legoland Florida  The biggest, fun-est (yes, we said it!) party of the year will be even more monstrous this fall at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort when Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party! Families will be screaming in excitement as they enjoy more candy, more LEGO® characters and more spell-binding surprises than ever before with 12 nights of Halloween fun – each Saturday and Sunday, beginning September 24 through October 30. This Halloween spectacular will bewitch families with amazing NEW experiences, live shows, spooky LEGO® decorations and Monster mischief around every corner – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.
NEW! Monster Mania IRL and in 4-D! Monsters are taking over LEGOLAND Florida Resort! Enjoy a host of thrilling meet and greets with never-before-seen LEGO® Monster characters, including Zombie Cheerleader, Plant Monster and Tiger Woman. Then, catch these ghoulish characters on the big screen in the ALL-NEW, hauntingly hilarious, 4D movie “The Great Monster Chase” complete with some sneaky special effects. Press Release Provided By: Polk County Public Schools  Polk County Public Schools is sharing some important updates on back-to-school topics.
The message below (see italics) was emailed to students’ families this afternoon. The information has also been shared on the district’s website (polkschoolsfl.com) and social media. Superintendent Frederick Heid is available tomorrow (Aug. 4) at 1 p.m. for news media seeking comment on these back-to-school topics. He will speak with news media at the school district office, 1915 South Floral Ave. in Bartow. RSVPs are appreciated for planning purposes. News media can RSVP by emailing jason.geary@polk-fl.net. Dear families, It’s hard to believe, but the first day of school is coming up soon on Aug. 10! I hope that you and your loved ones had a great summer break. For our students and families, please know that we missed you, and we’re all excitedly awaiting your return. If you and your child are new to Polk County Public Schools, let me be the first to welcome you. As we get ready to go back into the classroom, I’ve got some important news and information to share. Click on any of the following topics for information: I know this is a rather long update, but I appreciate your patience. We’ve been working hard to get everything ready for classes to resume. We look forward to seeing everyone on Aug. 10! Sincerely, Fred Heid Superintendent Polk County Public Schools Press Release Provided By: Polk County Supervisor of Elections Sample ballots for the upcoming Statewide Primary Election are now available online at PolkElections.gov with the Voter Lookup feature. “Voters are encouraged to study their choices in advance, and bring their sample ballot when they go to vote,” said Supervisor of Elections Lori Edwards. Voters may also request a vote-by-mail ballot or update voter information online.
For more information, visit PolkElections.gov, or call the Elections Office at 863-534-5888. Governor DeSantis Appoints Polk State President Falconetti to Education Commission of the States8/2/2022  Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Friday Polk State College President Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti’s appointment to the Education Commission of the States alongside Florida Department of Education Senior Chancellor Dr. Henry Mack. Falconetti and Mack will represent Governor DeSantis and Florida Department of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz as an extension of the state’s education policy team.
Press Release Provided By: Polk County Supervisor of Elections Polk County voters have three easy ways to vote in the August 23rd Statewide Primary Election, according to Supervisor of Elections Lori Edwards.
Early Voting Locations Bartow Polk Street Community Center 1255 Polk Street Davenport Sheriff’s NE District Office 1100 Dunson Rd Haines City Haines City Library 111 N 6th Street Lakeland Simpson Park Community Center 1725 Martin L King Jr Ave Lakeland Polk County Government Center 930 E Parker Street Lake Wales Tourist Club 205 N 5th St Mulberry Mulberry Civic Center 901 NE 5th St Poinciana Poinciana Community Center 397 Marigold Avenue Winter Haven Gil Jones Northeast Polk County Gov. Center 3425 Lake Alfred Road For more information, visit PolkElections.gov or call the Elections Office at (863) 534-5888. Press Release Provided By: Polk State College  Polk State College is proud to introduce Under Armour as the new official provider for Polk State Athletics. Under Armour will provide apparel as well as uniforms for each of Polk State’s five athletic programs. Athletic teams will begin wearing Under Armour during the 2022-23 academic year. Under Armour will also help Polk State with branding and marketing.
“We’re excited to have Under Armour as part of the Polk State family,” said Stanley Cromartie, Polk State Director of Athletics. “The opportunity to work with a U.S.-based company that offers a high-quality product at an affordable price made this a no-brainer. This partnership will greatly benefit our department, brand, institution, coaches, and most importantly, our student-athletes.” The five-year deal between Polk State and Under Armour runs through June 2027. Under Armour will be the Eagles’ exclusive provider of uniforms, footwear, socks, and headwear. Headquartered in Baltimore, Under Armour contracts with more than 300 NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA programs nationally. Under Armour-sponsored athletes include Tom Brady, Bryce Harper, Stephen Curry, Jordan Spieth, Lindsey Vonn, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson among others. Press Release Provided By: Polk County Supervisor of Elections Polk residents who wish to register to vote in the August 23rd Statewide Primary Election must do so by July 25th.
Eligible residents may register online at PolkElections.gov or on paper application forms, available for pick up at many convenient locations throughout the county including city halls, libraries, and chambers of commerce. Registered voters are reminded to inform the Elections Office of any voter information changes before Election Day. For more information please visit PolkElections.gov or call the Elections Office at 863-534-5888  The Polk State College Start Right Campaign is returning this July to the Polk State JD Alexander Center in Lake Wales to provide free school supplies, haircuts, food, and more to students and their families ahead of the 2022-2023 Academic Year. The event is open to the public at 152 E. Central Ave. on Saturday, July 23, and will start at 9 a.m. with approximately 700 backpacks full of school supplies to be given away to students from kindergarten through college. One backpack will be provided per student while supplies last.
Press Release Provided By: Polk County Supervisor of Elections Polk County voters who have moved or changed their name are encouraged to update their record with the Elections Office before the August 23rd Statewide Primary Election. It’s also important to notify the Elections Office if your signature has changed.
Many changes can be made by calling Election Headquarters at 863-534-5888. Additionally, changes can be made online at PolkElections.gov. “An address change probably means a precinct change,” explained Supervisor of Elections Lori Edwards. “If a voter updates their record before the election, we can eliminate inconvenience on Election Day.” For more information, visit PolkElections.gov or call the Elections Office at 863-534-5888. Press Release Provided By: Visit Central Florida BOGO Ticket Special: Buy one Bok Tower Gardens combo ticket and get a second ticket free, for tickets purchased at the visitor center during the event.  Visit Central Florida’s Welcome Center will host a “Back to School Kick-off” event on Saturday, Aug. 6. This free event will take place from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. The first 400 students will receive a free backpack (child must be present to receive a backpack). Attendees will also have the opportunity to take advantage of a BOGO ticket special: Buy a one-day Bok Tower Gardens combo ticket and get a second ticket free, for tickets purchased at the visitor center during the event. The event includes a caricature artist and free school supplies and kid-friendly giveaways (while supplies last) from local vendors including Staples, Wawa, Bond Clinic, Posner Park Chrysler Dodge Jeep and more. For more information, call 863-420-2586. In addition to assisting visitors and residents (by providing tourism information about Polk County), the welcome center also sells discounted attraction tickets for many Central Florida attractions (including Bok Tower Gardens and LEGOLAND Florida Resort). The welcome center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week (excluding major holidays), and is located at 101 Adventure Court, Davenport, FL 33837 (along U.S. Highway 27), a half-mile south of I-4 at Exit 55. Press Release Provided By: Polk State College  Athletic events won’t return to Polk State College until August, but nine student-athletes were recognized on Monday for their work in the classroom this past academic year.
Six Polk State baseball players and three soccer players were named to the NJCAA All-Academic Team. That consists of one first-team selection, three second-team selections, and five third-team selections. Polk State Baseball was also named an NJCAA Academic Team of the Year for having a cumulative 3.0 grade-point average (GPA). As a team, Polk State Baseball posted a 3.186 GPA. To qualify for the NJCAA All-Academic Team, student-athletes must have earned a GPA of 3.6 or greater for the 2021-22 Academic Year. The criteria for each of the three teams are listed below: First team: 4.0 GPA Second team: 3.8-3.99 GPA Third team: 3.6-3.79 GPA Press Release Provided by: Polk Education Foundation  AmeriCorps Polk Reads, a program of the Polk Education Foundation, is currently seeking individuals interested in being tutors in their kindergarten – third grade reading tutoring program. AmeriCorps Polk Reads has opportunities at select public elementary schools throughout Polk County. Members are trained to tutor students who are below grade level in reading, thru one-on-one personalized sessions. This position requires 24 - 35 hours a week and provides a monthly living allowance. Individuals who meet the required number of service hours can also earn a Segal Education Award to help pay for college, graduate school, or, to pay back qualified student loans. Qualifying tutors can also gift the Segal Education Award to a child or grandchild.
The program provides reading tutoring training and opportunity to earn a CPR and First Aid certificate. Tutors are placed in teams of 3 or 4 at local elementary schools to provide reading tutoring during the school day to students who are reading below grade level. This established, grant funded program has partnered with the Polk County Public Schools for 20 years to help young students increase their literacy skills. Those interested who are 18 and older with a high school diploma/GED should contact Steve Chapman, Program Director at steve.chapman@polk-fl.net or 863-534-0519 x208. Press release provided by: Bartow Ford Bartow Ford is sending its event plans into high gear with an incredible Country Music concert that will feature Florida’s own Country superstar Michael Ray.
Bartow Ford is partnering with 97 Country and The Dallas Bull for the November 5 event, which will be held at the dealership. The event features Special Guest Jon Langston. Additionally, a Battle of the Bands (the winner of which will be one of the opening acts for the main concert) is planned for the weeks leading up to the concert. |
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