focus winter haven 04-08

Health Fair & Free Screenings Date: Saturday, February 11th

Place: Winter Haven Hospital Volunteer Auxiliary Grande Lobby 200 Ave. F, Northeast • Winter Haven Time: 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Price: Health screenings are free $35 for Blood Work (optional) All participants receive a free risk assessment and other valuable information from professionals on heart health and other healthcare specialties.

Registration required for blood work.Call (863) 291-6705 to register.

For more information on these events, call the Winter Haven Hospital Health Connection:

863-291-6705 or 1-800-416-6705.

An Affair of the HeartLadies Luncheon

Date: Friday, February 3rd in conjunction with National Wear Red Day Place: Winter Haven Hospital’s Regency Center for Women & Infants Wellness Classroom 101 Ave. O, Southeast • Winter Haven Time: 12:00 p.m. Speaker: Zaheed Tai, D.O. Interventional Cardiologist Winter Haven Hospital Bostick Heart Center Come enjoy food and fellowship with the ladies of our community and learn more about the #1 killer of women. Admission is free but space is limited! Registration is required.

Evening Lecture Date: Tuesday, February 21st Place: Winter Haven Hospital Auditorium 200 Ave. F, Northeast • Winter Haven Time: 6:30 pm Speaker: Sirisha P. Reddy, M.D. Invasive Cardiologist Winter Haven Hospital Bostick Heart Center

Refreshments provided & door prizes to be raffled. Admission is free but space is limited! Registration is preferred.

A benefit for the patients of Winter Haven Hospital Bostick Heart Center

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JANUARY 2012 focuswinterhaven.com4

TABLE OF CONTENTSVolume 4 Issue 8 • January 2012

focuswinterhaven.com

06-08 LOCALThe “Transforming Florida” juried art exhibit at the Lake Wales Art Center is a must see and the search for Executive Director of Winter Haven’s new Economic Development Council is underway.

13 SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEWMeet civil servant Mayor Pete Rust and learn of his love for his town of Davenport, its people, and his family.

10 FEATUREThe City of Davenport has a charm all its own and a town full of people who value its heritage and its future. It’s a family thing, for sure.

17 BUSINESS PROFILEMagnify Credit Union does things differently and customers are lovin’ it. Known for its generosity as a company, read how CEO John Santarpia blessed others for Christmas.

20 DINING PROFILEIf flavor, freshness, and variety in food is your thing, Iam Pasta Café will be on your list of favorites. The Heuvel family combines talents, nutritional food, and a family-friendly atmosphere to serve up tasty meals and Southern hospitality. FOCUSWINTERHAVEN.COM

Full digital version of the current and past magazinesExtended features, interviews, dining profiles

and business profiles with extra contentCommunity news updates

13

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Pete Rust,Mayor of Davenport

ON THECOVER

18 - CITY OF WINTER HAVEN 22 - EVENT CALENDAR


Pete Rust,Mayor of Davenport

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Happy New Year!

2012 is a time for new beginnings - a time for building on the successes of 2011 and planning for the good changes that will come in the year now upon us. We’re wishing yours a great start.

Our first issue of 2012 shines a spotlight on Peter Rust, the Mayor of Davenport. Peter and his wife Harriet serve their community because they love living life in eastern Polk County and have taught others by example the value of giving back. Public service is a “pay it forward” work that benefits future generations and the Rusts serve selflessly. Read to learn of the Mayor’s hopes for 2012.

Speaking of planning ahead, don’t miss the news of Winter Haven’s formation of its new Economic Development Council. Industry and local business leaders believe this will be a great year for the City and surrounding areas with regards to economic growth.

Thanks for your continued support of Focus Magazine and its advertisers. Feel free to share your ideas for future stories with us at FocusWinterHaven.com or by phoning 813-707-8783. Our 2012 goal is to connect the community and grow your businesses because as always, our focus is all about you.

Here’s a wish for “Prospero Ano” to you and yours.

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NEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL SEARCHES FOR ITS FIRST LEADER WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

The new Winter Haven Economic Development Council is searching for its first director.

According to Dr. Eileen Holden of Polk State College who chairs the search committee, “We are looking for an innovative and dynamic leader with a proven track record in economic development. Specifically, we are looking for an individual who has experience in site selection, industry cluster analysis, business recruitment, etc.”

Obviously, an outgoing personality and a boldness to promote Winter Haven are necessary qualities, too.

The annual salary for a new director is being advertised as $110,000 to $120,000 and the goal is to have a leader in place by the first quarter of 2012.

EDC Board of Directors Chairman and President Ingram Leedy explained that the public-private partnership will create incentives from member businesses in order to bring new growth to Winter Haven.

The Council was established after the Texas-based Angelou Economic Advisors made a year-long study and presented recommendations to help Winter Haven attract new businesses, promote expansion of existing ones, create jobs, and expand the city’s tax base. A centralized focus on economic development will drive the EDC plans.

Legoland and a future CSX rail terminal should bring even more opportunities for growth. With the dissolution of the East Polk Committee of 100 advocate group, Winter Haven’s EDC will keep the local economy moving forward.

EDC will specifically target industries such as medical services, software and information technology, and logistics and distribution facilities. General business, agribusiness, and professional services are also on the list.The group, which has offices at the USF Polytechnic Blue Sky East Business Accelorator in Winter Haven, projects an annual budget range of $300,000 to $350,000 and has already begun work on its first projects. The City of Winter Haven plans to contribute $150,000 for this first year of the new EDC.

Charter Board Members of the new EDC include representatives from the 6-10 Corporation, Collany Properties, Elephant Outlook, Envisors Engineering, The Landings, Polk State College, Tampa Electric, Tucker Construction, USF Polytechnic, and Winter Haven Hospital. Legal and accounting services to establish the EDC have been donated by Sharit, Bunn

& Chilton, P.A. and LarsonAllen, LLP, respectively.

On a Greater Winter Haven Chamber blog post, Leedy credited the City, saying, “We have built tremendous momentum for the EDC with great interest and commitment from Winter Haven business leaders and city officials. The formation of the EDC would not have been possible without the support of the City of Winter Haven.”

A recent WHEDC Board meeting with other local business leaders in the lobby outside its new office (courtesy of USF Polytechnic) in the Blue Sky Business Accelerator.


HAPPY BIRTHDAY WINTER HAVEN!


“TRANSFORMING FLORIDA” EXHIBITLAKE WALES ARTS CENTER PRESENTS

LOCAL » FOCUS

WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

The Lake Wales Arts Center has a cultural and educational treat in store for visitors between now and January

26, 2012.

The “Transforming Florida” exhibit contains works from 22 Florida artists who display their personal interpretations of progress and its cost in terms of the Sunshine States’ natural environment.

Admission is free to the exhibit open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Works from artists around the state are included in the showing. Local artists include watercolorists Jan Fetters and Cathy Futral, clay artists Ilene Phelan and Marilyn Rackleman, and college students Brayden Hooper and Jordan Neumann, among others.

The Center’s executive administrator, Jean Donaldson, was pleased that artists from as

far away as Jacksonville elected to exhibit. She encourages all of Polk County and beyond to visit and view the varied themes presented in a variety of media.

Adam Justice, curator of art for the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland who judged the Lake Wales show, was impressed by both the quality and diversity represented, and especially by that of our local competitors. Entrants competed for $2,000 in awards.

A Maitland artist, known simply as Kyle, signs his work with first name only. He

earned the Best of Show award for his large mixed media, collage-style work entitled “Evidence.” Divided into sections, the work interpreted environmental themes present in Florida - one illustrating a manicured neighborhood and another a missile site with its necessary equipment.

The People’s Choice Award went to Jane Polkowski of Gainesville for her “Picking a Fresh Orange”.

The state-of-the-arts gallery in the historic building of the Lake Wales Arts Center,

located at 1099 State Road 60 East on the corner of 11th Street, offers a year-round variety of classes, concerts, and exhibitions. Telephone 863-676-1117 or visit http://lakewalesartscouncil.org for additional information.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see Florida from multiple perspectives and be challenged to intense thought about our state’s future.


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D A V E N P O R TA Tiny Town with a Big Heart for People, History, and Art

Feature

The small but lively city of Davenport, Florida is a busy place. One only needs look at the City’s web-page to discover a variety of well-organized family events throughout the year.

Located in the Central Florida Highlands area of the Atlantic coastal plain, Davenport’s charm and warmth draw visitors into another time. A vibrant historic and business district provides character and stability for the families who’ve chosen to call the “Gateway to the Ridge” their hometown.

The history began in January 1839 when the U.S military set up Fort Davenport. The fort only lasted a few years, but the settlement remained and the city was incorporated in 1915.

Strategically positioned in the Ridge area of the Sunshine State with US Hwy 17/92 the main north/south thoroughfare, Davenport is only eight miles south of Interstate 4. Easy access in every direction makes travel east to Orlando, west to Lakeland/Tampa, north to Kissimmee and south to Haines City a simple process. The good news is that the “busyness” of traffic and the explosive growth north of I-4 along US 27 have not affected the City’s charm.

At 138 feet above sea level, Davenport proper occupies only 1.7 square miles, with 0.1 square mile of that being the beautiful Lake Play. Gentle rolling hills intersperse the flatland terrain.As of April, 2010 the University of Florida estimated the population at 2,961 for the incorporated area.

Economically the City continues to grow as redevelopment of various family amusement parks and entertainment venues continues. Creativity abounds here as well, as evidenced in art, crafts, mechanics, and technology.

The City is well managed with a City Manager, who is Amy Arrington, Commission, Mayor, who is Pete Rust, and employees who care deeply about their community’s heritage and future. Add to that an organized infrastructure and strong public support and you have a town with its act together.

And those events throughout the year weave a ribbon of connection between business and family, tradi-tion and progress, and people and place. To discover the bonds for yourself, do plan a trip soon to check out one of the following:

Cruise In On the second Saturday monthly, folks gather on Bay Street downtown to admire antique and other vehicles and share news with their neighbors from 2-6 PM in winter and 4-8PM during the summer.

The Hotel Davenport and Hotel Tea RoomThis Southern classic experience offers refined elegance in a historic location filled with collectibles. The restored Victorian-style dining room provides an unforgettable stroll down memory lane.

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON


The Hotel serves Southern Family Style on Tuesday nights with reservations only.

Friday night steak night, according to locals, is “a biggy - the best steaks around.” Reserva-tions though not required, are suggested, since it’s a local favorite.

The award winning cupcakes and desserts of Hilton Gourmet baker Andy Hilton are offered at the hotel. Andy and Samantha participated in the Cup Cake Wars for Food Network in 2011, although they did not win.

Carriage rides available also.

Breakfast is served on Tuesdays through Fridays.

Call toll free 888-355-1287, or e-mail [email protected] for information. Visit 301 West Maple Street in Davenport, Florida 33836-0097 and bring friends.

Annual Highwaymen Art Reception and FestivalThe Original Florida Highwaymen Weekend Extravaganza event will feature 9 of the origi-nal Florida Highwaymen artists, March 2-3, 2012. On Friday night, dine with an artist at your own table, with an auction afterwards of original art, by each artist.The proceeds of this 2nd annual event will benefit the Arts/Culture of Davenport. For tickets, call the Davenport City Hall: 863-419-3300.

Also enjoy the free art show open to the public in the historic downtown on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Trash to Treasure SaleAnnual Community Yard Sales on Bay Street in Davenport; Usually 1st Saturday in Febru-ary, May, and October from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; $5.00 per space (Vendors do their own set up)

Davenport Safe Place to Trick-or-TreatTrick or Treat in downtown Davenport on Bay Street. FREE hot dogs and drinks, cotton candy, haunted house, wagon rides, costume contest and other activities.

Horse Creek FestivalThe creek still runs clean and clear a little outside of Davenport, which was originally named “Horse Creek.” The 2nd annual festival focuses on the town’s history as the birth of citrus confections - candy, sweets - in Central Florida and its activity today as a burgeoning center for the arts. The festival will feature a Baking Contest, Florida Quilt Display, Antique Cars, Invitational Art Show, Youth Art Show, Vendors of Florida Citrus Labels, DSA Art Display, Children’s Heritage Games, Historical Displays & Demos, Florida Foods, Native Gardens and UF Master Gardeners’ workshops. Two special luncheons occur in conjunction with the festival activities: Grandma Emiline’s Porch Luncheon and the Florida Cracker Luncheon.

Davenport is home to Webb’s Candy Factory, established in the 1920s when Miss Blodgett and Miss Stilman created “Citrus Candies,” believed to be the first such confection in the U.S. Their Tea Room, sold in 1931 to C.S. Taylor, was then sold in 1971 to Paul and Nadine Webb. November’s festival will also feature candy-making demonstrations by Webb’s and other area candy makers, with tastings for the visitors.

Festival admission is free. Visit the Historic District of downtown Davenport on Friday and Saturday, November 3-4, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm. Check for updates at www.horsecreekfestival.org.

Florida Heritage Invitational Art Show Dozens of the state’s finest artists compete in the area’s 2nd annual Florida Heritage Invi-tational Art Show, which is held in conjunction with Davenport’s Horse Creek Festival on November 3-4, 2012.

From painters to sculptors, jewelers to photographers, the main streets of Davenport are lined with booths displaying creations of the best of the best in this by-invitation-only juried and judged “Florida’s Heritage” show which awards an assortment of prizes including cash.

The stunning life-size horses of famed woodcarver Bill Snyder, the masterful landscapes of Daniel Butler, the realistic cattle-ranch studies of Hoppy Campbell, the amazing “wildlife art” by Dawn Rae Carver, top-notch wildlife photography by Arthur Morris-and the equally exquisite work of many more, too numerous to list, will be displayed and available for pur-chase.

Davenport’s Hometown ChristmasFestivities in Downtown Davenport at Lake Play & Bay Street include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, electric night time parade, cookie decorating, Lighting of Lake Play Park, Cruise In with classic cars, vendors and SNOW.

The Biennial Quilt and Tea FestivalThe 2012 event is the 11th (now biennial) and is set for November 9-10, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at locations indoors and outdoors throughout the historic district (not a tra-ditional quilt show). Admission is a donation of $5.00. Attendees may walk or ride via horse and carriage or tram.

Each year some of the festival income benefits different charities locally and internation-ally. Hosted by the City, the event is sponsored by the Quilts and Tea Committee and the Davenport Historical Society. The committee helps plan other events related to “Florida Remembered” - festivals, workshops, and educational opportunities. Visit www.quiltsandtea.com or phone 863-258-7800.

Make it a point to visit soon. Enjoy some family-friendly fun and see why residents are proud to call Davenport home. For additional information, phone 863.419.3300 or visit www.mydavenport.org.


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Perhaps the most important thing that contributes to the success of Polk County’s communities is people - those who serve and those who believe that giving back will make a difference that counts for the future.

Pete Rust is one such man. As the current Mayor of Davenport, Rust works tirelessly, along with Harriet, his wife of 49 years, to ensure that the City continues to thrive and grow. She describes him as “a man of his word whose family and city are his greatest concerns.”

Pete has loved this town since he moved here 60 years ago and that zeal is greater than ever. Enjoy his responses to our questions this month and be inspired by a man who puts thoughts into action.

Interview by Cheryl JohnstonPhotos courtesy of the Rust family

Pete RustMayor of Davenport

Pete Rust with his granddaughter, Charlotte Roberts


Hello, Pete! First, let us congratulate you and your lovely wife Harriet on 49 years of mar-riage. Thank you also for responding to our questions on the day of your anniversary, Decem-ber 27. We trust you had a great celebration.

Focus: Would you first describe your family?RUST: As you’ve mentioned, I’ve been married to Harriet for 49 years. We have three children living in close proximity of which we are very proud: John who works with Center State Bank; Michael who works with Verizon; and Sara Roberts who works with the Randy Roberts Foundation. We also have three grandchildren.

Harriet and I met in high school and were married in the now 100-year-old Davenport United Methodist Church, which we attended. That building is gone, but we’re still members today.

She owned Azalea Hill, a florist and gift shop on South Boulevard, for 45 years. We also opened a seasonal shop in the ‘90s called Just Christmas and enjoyed every minute of that time. Harriet is skilled at machine embroidery and has always enjoyed showcasing/learning the city’s history. She is very community-minded and also an excellent event planner for City

events, which she implements with the help of others as well. Two words describe her essence - family and community. She is my right hand and we are a team.

Focus: How did you come to live in Davenport?RUST: I was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and lived during my 4-1/2 year military service term in San Diego, St. Simons Island off the Georgia coast and Beaufort, South Carolina. I moved to Davenport when my father retired from the Philadelphia Electric Company in 1952.

Focus: What about your education and military training?RUST: I graduated from Haines City High School in 1958 and attended the University of Florida from 1958-1961. In the United States Marine Corps I served with the long range and ground control radar teams.

Focus: So, how did you become involved with the City Commission?RUST: I served on the Davenport City Council from 1968-1970 in order to change the makeup of the Council to a Commission. After my military retirement there was more free time to become involved again. I served then as Mayor from 1993 to 2002, when I resigned

Pete Rust, the family man, enjoys setting up the Christmas Village for his grandchildren Charlotte and Andrew.


to attend to my sister. Later, I was appointed by the Council to fill a vacant seat in 2006. This current term is from 2008 until 2013.

Focus: Would you give us an overview of this Commission’s personality and membership?RUST: We changed to Commission structure from the prior Council structure with a Char-ter revision in 2008. I would describe the Commission today as conservative in its discussion, with very little dissention regarding the concerns of the Community.

Focus: What is the most challenging part of your work? The most inspiring part?RUST: The challenges include keeping the community moving forward in a positive direc-tion; creating commercial as well as residential growth without falling backward with the infrastructure in the current environment. The most inspiring part is to see how well the activities of the city meet with positive attitudes and an appreciation for giving something back to the community from the residents and employees participating.

Focus: How do you spend your time when you’re not working?RUST: Since retiring, I spend most of the time maintaining our property, but I have found a new hobby. That is assembling LEGO kits for myself and for my grandchildren.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about the work you do with the Commission or Council?RUST: Presently it is seeing plans finally come to fruition within our community: i.e. Police Station and City Park Restoration, as well as advancing our infrastructure, such as water and sewer.

Focus: Are there particular civic or local projects or efforts that you enjoy more than others?RUST: I enjoy working with my wife and others on the yearly events, such as the November

events of Quilts & Tea and the Horse Creek Festival, and the upcoming Original Florida Highwaymen Weekend Extravaganza to be held the first Friday & Saturday in March. She is also the current president of The Davenport Historical Society, which has been active since 1995 when our historic district was added to the National Historic Registry of Historic Places.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about the eastern Polk County and Davenport community?RUST: I enjoy just being a longtime part of the Ridge section of Polk County and I have especially enjoyed being a long-term resident of Davenport for 60 years. Harriet loves its quaintness and family-oriented flavor. This is our home.

Focus: Why would you encourage others to become involved?RUST: If you care about your community and wish to see it thrive and be active, you need to be involved personally, either by volunteering to serve on boards or committees or just be-coming a part of the action. The success of anything is always measured by the commitment of its participants.

Focus: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?RUST: Hopefully, we (the City) will be better that we currently are, with some new growth in the areas of commerce and residential development.

As we close this out, Cheryl, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize all those persons who have come to serve before me and who were instrumental in keeping the com-munity alive and moving forward. People who have and do love Davenport have made this happen.

Mayor Peter Rust accepts painting of 1913 Davenport from artist Austin Thompson (Horse Creek Festival participant(. Thompson donated the painting to be hung in Davenport’s newly renovated Police Station (photo courtesy of www.mydavenport.org).


MAGNIFY CREDIT UNION CEO

BUSINESS » BUSINESS PROFILE


Magnify Credit Union takes the “Pay It Forward” philosophy seriously.

John Santarpia, company president and CEO, believes an organization should do as much giving in its community as receiving, if not more.Magnify has become known now for its generosity as well as its approach to service. It’s known for doing things differently. And in the process its customer base is growing.

But company growth was not the motivation on the December day recently when Santarpia shared a little Christmas spirit by offering $100 gift cards to some unsuspecting shoppers who looked like they might be able to use a little help.An online video and published report by Fox 13 News reporter Ken Suarez details Santarpia surprising grocery shoppers at a Lakeland Winn-Dixie store. He offered $100 gift cards to five different people with only one condition - if given the opportunity, they were to help someone else in need by paying it forward.

Rebecca Harris, 28 and a mother of six children, was overwhelmed by the free gift from a stranger. Twins born three months prematurely meant the family would struggle to live on only one income. On this day, she felt blessed and planned to help someone else, too.

The video also captured one of the recipients when she returned to the store and paid for another stranger’s groceries with what remained on the gift card she had received. To catch a bit of this Christmas contagion, view the video at http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/news/local/polk/ceo-gives-away-gift-cards-12052011, but warning: have the tissues handy.

Be on the lookout, too, because the Mulberry-headquartered company plans more surprise giveaways between now and the 25th.

The energetic Santarpia has transformed Magnify (formerly IMC Federal Credit Union and then Community First) since he joined the company in 2003. The CPA, real estate broker, and former CEO of the DVA

Federal Credit Union in Washington, D.C., is a self-taught marketing specialist who believes people deserve more than in-your-face advertising campaigns. That 12-year experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs had a positive effect. He prefers that Magnify and its employees serve customers by demonstrating hospitality, compassion, and friendship. And he models it, too.

Magnify Credit Union Centers act and feel different than most. The company’s slogan captures the corporate philosophy in only four words: “Simplify banking. Magnify life.” At its five locations, customers experience a more casual “community gathering place” atmosphere. Magnify events such as gardening or couponing workshops, among others, enhance the relationship building approach to business. It’s a “serve more than sell” mentality that has established Magnify as a leader in local banking.

Magnify belongs to a Shared Branch Network with over 4,000 branches throughout the U.S. available for Magnify customers to use for their banking needs. Anyone living or working in Polk County and Hillsborough County (west of I-75) can join Magnify. Magnify branches are even open on Saturdays and ATMs are located in most CVS Pharmacy stores in Polk, which adds to the convenience factor. For company details, visit www.magnifycu.org or phone 863-425-5611 / 800-470-8742.

When it comes to managing money, word of mouth promotion goes a long way. And in tighter economic times, free gift cards are definitely something to talk about.

All Santarpia asks this Christmas is that the receivers magnify the generosity. He’s betting that they will.

SURPRISES SHOPPERS WITH GIFT CARDS


EXTRA » CITY OF WINTER HAVEN

Are you retired and looking for something fun to do? Or maybe you are still working, but nearing retirement age.

Whatever the case, the Winter Haven Senior Adult Center offers a wide range of activities just for you. The Winter Haven Senior Center is at 250 S. Lake Silver Drive NW.

Whether it’s having a meal in the weekday lunch program, special programs, going on day trips or playing bingo, it’s all about getting out and socializing with others. “After you’ve been here a few times, everybody becomes like family,” said Erica Guerra, Recreation Supervisor and facility director.

The facility’s Current Affairs Discussion group is new opportunity for everyone to come together and talk about world events. The group meets at noon every Thursday. “It’s very interesting because our people bring such different perspectives on current events,” Guerra said. “The group has really grown.”

Programs at the Winter Haven Senior Center are for active seniors. That includes the popular Wellness with Wilma, a one-hour low-impact total body workout that includes aerobics, strengthening, balance and flexibility activities.

Throw in some card games like bridge, pinochle, euchre, and hand and foot, a few

Wii games, movies, chess, dominoes, quilting and painting and you have the recipe for a pretty full schedule. “We offer activities where individuals can get involved with programs they like,” Guerra said.

Most activities offered at the Winter Haven Senior Adult Center are free, but some are offered at a nominal charge. Bingo costs 25 cents per card. Zumba is $2 per person. Line dance classes are $5 per person for City residents and $6 for non-residents. Stay around for the dance social to show off the moves you’ve learned and the cost is $3 per person.

For the competitive ones, pickleball is a new addition to activities offered at the Winter Haven Senior Adult Center. Pickleball is a game played on a badminton court using perforated plastic balls and wooden paddles. Check the calendar for the pickleball schedule.

Free computer classes are also offered, as are special presentations on crime prevention, finance and holiday programs.

The center is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and is available for rentals, as well. See the activity calendar at: http://www.mywinterhaven.com/senior_adult_center.htm, or give them a call at 863-291-5870.

CITY OF WINTER HAVENWRITTEN BY: JOY TOWNSEND

fit into Regular HoursWhen REGULAR LIFE doesn’t

EXTENDED HOURS CARE

500 E. Central AvenueWinter Haven, Florida 33880

863.293.1191www.bondclinic.com

BONDCLINIC, P.A.

Walk-ins are welcome during these hours:Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. & Sunday 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

No appointments arenecessary for minor illnesses and

minor injuries such as sore throats,ear pain, colds and �u.

Monday - �ursday 5 p.m. - 8 p.m

http://www.bondclinic.com


.com


IAM PASTA CAFÉThe Heuvel family knows food and their

Iam Pasta Café in Winter Haven is dishing it up nicely.

The casual eatery is definitely a family affair. Since moving from Amsterdam in Holland to Central Florida, the Heuvels have owned two prior establishments - the Café Doughmonde, a bakery/cafe in Haines City, and the Iamsterdam Panini Café in Winter Haven, neither of which allowed room for expansion.

Opened in Spring 2011, the recently expanded family-friendly Iam Pasta Café seats up to 50 at its location a few miles east of Legoland on Cypress Gardens Boulevard.

Dave and Karin Heuvel work with his brother Val and his parents Harvey and Joan to offer a selection of pasta dishes, panini sandwiches, soups, salads, pizza and three scrumptious desserts. Fresh made breads and a choice of three pasta sauces allow diners plenty of variety.

We visited for dinner recently and enjoyed sampling three pasta dishes and the cheesecake that lures customers back again and again.

In fact, regular customers Sal and Dolly Aguilino, who were leaving as we entered, encouraged us to “try the cheesecake. It’s the best anywhere.” Then he added, “Dolly likes the lasagna and I like the cheesecake, good food, good service, and great prices.”

Harvey seated us and Dave explained the menu selections. We were excited to learn of the gluten-free options for pasta, pizza, and Val Heuvel’s specialty bread for paninis, affectionately called “Protini.”

The process for pasta decisions is simple. First, choose your pasta from among bowtie, fettucine, penne, spaghetti, stuffed shells, whole wheat or gluten-free. Next, select one of the red, white, or pesto sauces and any accompaniments you’d like.

Our meal started with the Bruchetta appetizer, an excellent choice because of the toasted bread and tomatoes’ freshness. Then we sampled three different specialties: Creamy Mushroom Pasta with mushrooms and green onions sautéed in a garlic butter/ white wine cream sauce, the Chicken Basil Pesto topped with parmesan cheese, and the Iam Pasta Meatballs in delicious marinara.

Shirley Starling, another first-time diner that evening, claimed the Chicken Basil Pesto

as a favorite and said, “I’ll be bringing the whole family with me next time. They will love this.”

We were impressed with the uniqueness of each, and with the prices also. Dave Heuvel explained the family’s determination to hold prices so more folks can afford to enjoy Iam’s offerings.

As we ate, three other family members stopped by our table to check on us - mom, dad, and brother Val, the nutritionist, who

took time to explain the gluten-free/carb-free products from which customers can select. Gluten-free pastas and paninis and gluten-free/zero carb pizzas are available upon request. From the family’s healthful appearances, it was obvious that gluten-free is a great dietary choice. We were inspired to try it when we return soon.

After visiting the café’s website at www.iampastacafe.com, we have decided to sample the Pasta Primavera on our next trip. The pictures of the vegetarian dish combining fettucine with fresh broccoli, zucchini, onions, black olives, and tomatoes priced at only $7.89 had us marking the calendar.

See for yourself. Come soon to try temptations like the authentic pressed Cuban sandwich turkey panini on rosemary focaccia bread, King Salmon Pasta, Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Parmesan, and the low-carb choice called “Sauce Your Salad”. The soups are also homemade and at least once, you must try the amazing cheesecake or tiramisu. Bet it won’t be your last.

Iam Pasta Café also offers especially affordable catering service for small or large group functions and karaoke dining on Saturdays from 6-9PM. T

The Heuvels know food and family fun and Winter Haven is the better for it.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT » DINING PROFILE


7220 CYPRESS GARDENS BOULEVARDWINTER HAVEN, FL 33880(863) 508-7433WWW.IAMPASTACAFE.COMHOURS: 11AM-9PM, MON-SAT

CRITICAL INFO

Iam Pasta Cafe specialties include (clockwise from top) Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Chicken, Spaghetti with Meatballs, and Chicken Basil Pesto.

Regular customers Sal and Dotty Aguilino visit weekly so Sal can have his favorite dessert - the Iam Pasta Cafe Cheesecake. (Gluten free Cheesecake is also available.)


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WINTER HAVENCALENDAROF EVENTS

ENTERTAINMENT » EVENT CALENDAR

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: [email protected]

FROM NOW THROUGH JANUARY 26“Transforming Florida” ExhibitLake Wales Arts CenterWeekdays 9-41099 State Road 60 E.Phone 863-676-1117

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5Enrichment Movie SeriesWinter Haven Public LibraryAll films intended for adult viewing5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Regarding list & content, call 863-291-5880

MONDAY, JANUARY 7Commission MeetingCity Hall, Public Meetings6:30 p.m. Call 863-291-5880

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11Business BreakfastChamber AuditoriumRyan Ronk of the LPGA will present“Florida’s Natural Charity Classic and the Symetra Tour - The Road to the LPGA.”Breakfast served at 7:30.Please RSVP: 863-293-2138

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure”Tiger Town Joker Marchant Stadium5K and 10K Race 7a.m.E-mail [email protected] for details.

Saturday Afternoon MovieWinter Haven Public LibraryA family film 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.Free AdmittanceSmall costs for refreshments. Library phone: 863-291-5880

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21Gathering of AngelsTheatre Winter Haven Fundraiser Nora May Hall-Florida Citrus BuildingAnnual fundraiser for Theatre Winter HavenMusic, dancing, food & silent auction7-11:30 p.mPhone 863-299-2672 for gala info.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26Networking Showcase Hosted by Winter Haven Honda at the dealership5:30-7p.m.Call 863-293-2138 for details.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28Thomas Pandolfi, PianistLake Wales Art CenterLight, jazzy renditions of Gershwin2-4p.m. Call 863-676-8526 for details.

Saturday Afternoon MovieWinter Haven Public LibraryA family film 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.Free AdmittanceSmall costs for refreshments. Library phone: 863-291-5880

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2Banker’s Cup/Taste of Winter HavenNora May HallWinter Haven’s highest honor Two community members to be recognizedBlack tie optionalTickets $100.00 per person.Please RSVP: [email protected] phone 863-293-2138

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3Pickin’ in the Park Downtown Central ParkSing-along with local musicians6:30-8:00 p.m.Sponsored by Winter Haven HospitalCall 863-297-9387 for details.Free admission


T H E M O S T A D V A N C E D H E A L T H C A R E I S B A S E D O N T R U S T .

AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE

FIND A BOARD CERTIFIED DOCTOR CLOSE TO HOME: Call the Winter Haven Hospital Physician Referral Line. 800-416-6705.

Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center is recognized by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons as being in the top 10 percent of Heart Programs in the United States, and ranked one of the nation’s Top 50 Heart Centers by a leading consumer advocacy magazine. We give our heart patients every possible advantage by combining the best clinical experts with the latest technologies and the most effective rehab services available. And it’s all backed by the hospital you trust, Winter Haven Hospital.

Learn more at www.winterhavenhospital.org or call 863-292-4688.

Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice.

Nationally recognized heart care is right here.

That’s the Bostick advantage.

ANDY THORNAL COMPANY

focus winter haven 04-08

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