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Haines City Named One of Polk’s Best Places to Work for Third Straight Year

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Haines City Named One of Polk’s Best Places to Work for Third Straight Year

By Anita Todd

HAINES CITY – The City of Haines City has once again been recognized as one of CareerSource Polk’s Best Places to Work in Polk County for 2024.

Although the honorees were announced in August, CareerSource Polk President and CEO Stacy Campbell-Domineck formally shared the news with City Commissioners during their Sept. 4 meeting.

“I commend you because that process requires a very extensive application, but the most important piece is the feedback from at least 25 percent of the individuals who work here,” Campbell-Domineck told commissioners.

Haines City was one of 20 businesses to earn the distinction. The application process evaluates three key areas: the application itself, employee survey results, and input from judges. Questions focus on an employer’s commitment to workplace diversity, work/life balance, workforce education, training and development, employee recruitment, and retention. Applicants may also highlight what sets them apart from other organizations.

As part of the process, employees complete a confidential survey about their workplace satisfaction, including how well their employer supports work-life balance.

“This isn’t about what charities a company donates to,” explained Kathy Suttles, Director of the Business Services Division for CareerSource Polk. “We are interested in how they treat their employees – things like work/home balance and good things they do for their employees.”

Chandra Hall, Director of Human Resources for Haines City, said city leaders are proud of the recognition but remain focused on continued growth.

“We do not present as being a perfect organization, but an organization in progress that is committed to listening to the concerns expressed by employees and working on a strategic plan to address where we are and where we want to be as an award-winning company.”

Hall added that the feedback collected during the process guides ongoing improvements.

“We are a fast-growing city with a small-town feel working to create innovative ways to attract, retain, and engage our employees as we serve the citizens of this community. Having an understanding that with this growth comes a huge responsibility for us to adapt, develop, improve, and reinforce our structures, processes, and strategies is critical. As a result of this understanding, the City strives to achieve greater success in all that we do year after year. It is certainly not a quick fix, but a strategy that requires hard work and time.”

This marks the third consecutive year Haines City has received the honor, making it eligible for Employer of Distinction designation.

Davenport’s Second Annual Senior Expo

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Davenport’s Second Annual Senior Expo

Did you know seniors in Polk County are one of the fastest-growing age groups in Florida?

As the senior population continues to grow, so does the need for community, resources, and support tailored to their unique needs. That’s why you won’t want to miss the 2nd Annual Davenport Senior Expo — a free event dedicated to celebrating and supporting our vibrant senior community.

Join the City of Davenport at the Senior Expo to discover resources, services, and connections designed to support you and your loved ones.

Enjoy a fun-filled day featuring:

  • Informational booths
  • Free snacks and giveaways
  • Music, sunshine, and prizes
  • Educational resources

Wednesday, September 24th
10 AM – 2 PM

Tom Fellows Community Center
207 North Blvd. West
Davenport, FL 33837

This is a free event, open to all seniors, caregivers, and families. Make plans to attend — and invite a neighbor or family member to join in the fun!

For more information, call: 863-588-1130

Daughters of the American Revolution Proclaim Constitution Week in Dundee

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Daughters of the American Revolution Proclaim Constitution Week in Dundee

by: Capers Gay

Last week, the Ponce de Leon chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) gave a proclamation for Constitution Week over in Dundee. The group is a nationwide non-profit volunteer organization comprised of women who can prove lineal ancestry to those who participated in the Revolutionary War. Their mission is to honor and preserve American history and educate others about it.

Constitution Week is just one initiative in that mission. Running from September 17th to the 23rd, the week is meant to honor the American Constitution. Laura Stokes, a member of the Ponce de Leon chapter had this to say, “Constitution Week should serve as a reminder that we are one Country United and our forefathers made sacrifices to ensure our rights as citizens.” The celebration dates back to 1955, when DAR lobbied Congress to declare the week-long observance, which eventually was signed into law the following year.

This initiative is nationwide as anyone can request their local communities to proclaim Constitution Week, just as Laura Stokes did in Dundee. The Ponce de Leon chapter celebrate Constitution Week annually with the Bells Across America and 2025 was no exception. At the First Baptist Church in Winter Haven, the chapter rang their bells triumphantly to commence Constitution Week.

PCSO Hosting Combo Active Assailant Preparation Program/Firearms Safety Class

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PCSO Hosting Combo Active Assailant Preparation Program/Firearms Safety Class

The PCSO will be hosting a combo Active Assailant Preparation Program/Firearms Safety Class which includes the Concealed Weapons Permit AND best practices on how to prepare for, prevent, or respond to an active assailant.

The class is scheduled for Saturday, October 4th from 8 am – 1 pm.

This program is taught by highly trained PCSO law enforcement professionals. It provides:

The requirements directed by the Florida Department of Agriculture as part of an application to obtain a concealed weapons permit; And an overview of active shooter incidents and best practices about how to prepare for, prevent and respond to an active assailant at your church, business, or another venue.

The “Run, Hide, Fight” training model will be covered, including tactics and strategies of what to do when law enforcement arrives. Instructors will also discuss the potential role of Florida concealed weapon license holders and the legal justification of “lethal engagement” with an active assailant.

**This class will include firearm use or training and is taught by instructors at the PCSO Burnham-McCall Training Center.

IF YOU WISH TO ATTEND this Active Assailant Preparation Program YOU MUST CALL 863-298-6242 during normal office hours (Mon-Fri, 8-5) to reserve your spot. There are only 40 spots per class so call now before they fill up.

Cost of the class is $70; proceeds go to Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc., and the cost is non-refundable.

Students must bring their own ammunition; if a student does not have ammo, it may be purchased from PCSO for $12.50.

The concealed weapon permit class is from 8:00 a.m. to noon, followed by a 1.5 hour active assailant preparation training.

Once the program is completed, the student will receive a certificate of completion, to include in their permit application. Each student will also receive an application packet with instructions on how to apply, through the Florida Department of Agriculture.

CLASS REQUIREMENTS:

Students shall not wear loose hanging clothing and shall wear close-toed shoes. Each student will be required to provide the following:

1- A modern manufacture firearm capable of using modern ammunition.

2- 50 rounds of clean modern manufacture ammunition for the firearm that is brought.

3- Modern manufacture protective eye-wear designed for a shooting environment.

4- Modern manufacture hearing protection designed for a shooting environment.

5- Adequate sun protection. (i.e. hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunscreen)

6- Adequate hydration for extended outdoor activity.

Any questions about this course? Please call 863-534-7200 during normal office hours and ask to speak with Sergeant Daniel Bennett or Sergeant Keith Caratsole.

City of Winter Haven Applies for +$3 Million Grant to Fund Alternate Water Supply Transmission Main

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City of Winter Haven Applies for +$3 Million Grant to Fund Alternate Water Supply Transmission Main

City of Winter Haven Applies for +$3 Million Grant to Fund Alternate Water Supply Transmission Main

by James Coulter

 

Nearly five miles of a transmission main for reclaimed water may be installed along Thompson Nursery Road if the City of Winter Haven receives a grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).

 

At their meeting on Wed. Sep. 11, Winter Haven city commissioners voted unanimously to approve a grant application to help the city utilize an alternate water supply.

 

Photo source Tom from Pixabay

The application would be for a grant through the Protecting Florida Together program, which helps fund projects that promote alternate water supply (AWS) development, such as through reclaimed water use.

 

“This program aims to secure Florida’s water future by creating new water sources, reducing reliance on fresh water, and improving water quality through measures such as advanced wastewater treatment and stormwater management,” wrote Gary Hubbard, Water Department Director.

 

The grant will help fund the installation of approximately 4.38 miles of new reclaimed transmission main. As Hubbard explained: “The main will run along the east end of Thompson Nursery Road, go through the future Preserve at Lake Ashton development project, and connect to Cypress Gardens Boulevard.”

 

The project is estimated to cost $8,684,000. The grant has been requested to provide $3,907,800 in funding toward the project. The deadline for the grant application is Fri. Sep. 19.

In Loving Memory of Richard “Rick” Rutherford

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In Loving Memory of Richard “Rick” Rutherford

Richard “Rick” Rutherford

October 9th, 1942 – September 10th, 2025

Richard “Rick” Rutherford 82 of Davenport passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Born October 9,1942 in Saginaw, Michigan he moved to the area from Minnesota in 1997. Rick was a Manager at Trademark Metal Recycling in Tampa, retiring in 2017 with 30 years of service. He was a long-time member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winter Haven, serving as Treasurer, Vestry member and Eucharistic Minister. Rick was very involved in Big Brothers, Junior Achievements, Foreign Exchange Student Program and Youth Ministry. He served in the US Army from 1960-1963.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents Ervin and Betty Rutherford and siblings Ervin, Joseph and Carol. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Judy and siblings Dan, Sandy and Judy of Texas. He was a loving son, husband and brother. He will be dearly missed. 

Military Honors will be rendered at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell on Friday, October 17, 2025.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 656 Ave L NW Winter Haven, FL 33881 on Saturday, October 18th at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Paul’s Church or charity of choice. 

In Loving Memory of Brenda Tomlin Watson

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In Loving Memory of Brenda Tomlin Watson

Brenda Tomlin Watson

January 19th, 1949 – September 9th, 2025

Brenda (Tomlin) Watson passed away on September 9, 2025 after a several months struggle with cancer.

Brenda is a lifelong resident of Winter Haven who worked for the postal system until her retirement. Her main interests involved gardening and growing African violets and loving her family. She is deeply missed but we are grateful knowing she’s now reunited with loved ones who went before her. 

She is preceded in death by parents T.A. Tip Tomlin and Flo Ferguson Stinson, sons Bobby Joe Watson and Billy Joe Watson, Jr. She is survived by son Brady Joe Watson, sisters Sandi Tomlin Sutker and Pamela Tomlin Howard, several nieces and nephews as well as ex-husband Billy Joe Watson, Sr.

A celebration of life will be held at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Winter Haven on Saturday, September 20th at 2:00pm.

In Loving Memory of Alan James Ford of Winter Haven

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In Loving Memory of Alan James Ford of Winter Haven

Alan James Ford

February 1st, 1945 – September 4th, 2025

Alan James Ford, 80, of Winter Haven, Florida, passed away on September 4, 2025. He was born on February 1, 1945, in Canton, Ohio to Andrea (Hiller) Ford while his father James Dewey Ford was serving in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. After the war, the Ford family settled in Florida, where Alan grew up, met his wife Linda and raised two daughters, Deborah and Rebecca. 

Throughout his life, Alan strived to harmonize the various triumphs, joys, tragedies, and mysteries of our human experience.  Working at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, he delighted in great art, music, and glimpses at an optimistic future. Although the future unfolded differently in some ways, his passion for art, music, and literature continued. After studying philosophy at the University of Miami, he was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam, where he endeavored to reconcile patriotic duty and a love for his country with his conscience and what he came to understand as his duty to God. After working for some time as an electrician, he eventually attended seminary in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and became a Lutheran minister. 

In addition to art and music, Alan treasured literature and poetry, often weaving allusions to his favorite works into his sermons. He also enjoyed tennis and cycling, travel and foreign languages, nature walks and beach combing.

He is survived by his wife Linda, daughters Deborah and Rebecca, grandchildren Rainier and Erza, and his sisters Carol and Susuan, as well as friends, extended family members, and community members who will miss him dearly.

A Committal Service with Military Honors will be held on Friday, September 19th at 12:30pm at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.  A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Winter Haven Florida on Saturday, September 20th at 10:00am.

Welcome, World Travelers! Walt Disney Animatronic Coming to Carousel of Progress

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Welcome, World Travelers! Walt Disney Animatronic Coming to Carousel of Progress

Welcome, World Travelers! Walt Disney Animatronic Coming to Carousel of Progress

by James Coulter

 

Walt Disney may have passed away five years before Walt Disney World opened, but the founder of the Disney company will soon be making an appearance at the Happiest Place on Earth–albeit through the magic of audio-animatronics.

 

Several big announcements about the Disney parks were made during Destination D23, hosted during the last weekend of August at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World.

 

One exciting announcement, made during the “Creating the Happiest Place on Earth” panel on Sat., Aug. 30, was about a Walt Disney animatronic to be created for the Carousel of Progress attraction in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom.

 

The Carousel of Progress is a unique audio-animatronic show set inside a rotating theater that showcases the technological progress experienced during the 20th century through the life of a single American family.

 

The attraction made its debut at the New York World’s Fair in 1964. It was later showcased at Disneyland from 1967 until 1973, when it moved to its new and current home at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.

 

Since its debut at the World’s Fair, the Carousel of Progress, according to the Disney Parks Blog, “has had more performances than any other stage show in the history of American theater.”

 

As the attraction showcases Walt Disney’s passion for progress and innovation, it’s only fitting that an audio-animatronic representation of the man himself will start the show through a new opening presentation set to debut sometime next year.

 

This will not be the first time Walt Disney has appeared as an audio-animatronic figure at a Disney park. Disneyland introduced its own figure earlier this year on July 17 as part of the attraction “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” to celebrate the park’s 70th anniversary.

 

To ensure historical accuracy, the audio-animatronic figure was created through a collaboration by Disney Imagineering with the Walt Disney Archives and the Walt Disney Family Museum.

 

“We are grateful to The Walt Disney Company and Walt Disney Imagineering for their continued collaboration and ongoing partnership with The Walt Disney Family Museum,” said Kirsten Komoroske, Executive Director of the Walt Disney Family Museum.

 

“The introduction of a new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney in ‘Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress’ marks an exciting milestone in our shared mission to celebrate the story of the man behind the magic and inspire new generations with his innovations and vision for the future,” she continued. “We appreciate the continued efforts and meticulous care that Imagineering has taken to keep Walt’s legacy alive.”

In Loving Memory of Sally I Bush of Dundee

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In Loving Memory of Sally I Bush of Dundee

Sally I Bush

June 2nd, 1931 – August 30th, 2025

Sally I. Bush, 94, of Dundee, FL, went to be with the Lord on August 30, 2025. She was born on June 2, 1931, in Troy, NY, to Elmer and Winifred Conley Shupe. Sally moved to Dundee, Florida in 1982 from Syracuse, NY, and was a devoted member of St. Ann Catholic Church in Haines City, FL.

Sally volunteered at St. Ann Catholic Church with the bereavement ministry. She loved golfing, traveling, and boating with her husband Paul. A true dog lover, she especially cherished her dog “Precious.” Sally always made everyone feel at home when visiting and took care of their every need. It was said that her personality was fierce, kind, and sassy—she loved to have a good time and always spoke her mind. She was dearly loved by all her nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Winifred; husband, Paul Bush; siblings, Elmer B. Shupe Jr., James A. Shupe Sr., and Winifred Sabel. Sally leaves behind to cherish her memory her many nieces and nephews, as well as her dear friend, Scott Trombley.

A memorial mass will be held on September 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church in Haines City, FL. Her final resting place will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Haines City, FL.

In her memory, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or to Feeding America at www.feedingamerica.org or mail your donation to 161 N Clark St Suite 700 Chicago, IL 60601

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