Posted by Bob Gernert on May 23, 2008 at 2:11 pm
There will be a Candlelight Memorial to Marlene Young in Central Park on Tuesday evening, May 27 from 8 - 8:45 p.m. It will be a time of music and quiet reflection by candlelight. Those attending should bring candles and lawn chairs or blankets.
Husband Robert Young and other family members plan to attend.
(Update 5-28-08) The memorial service at the First Church of the Nazarene in Winter Haven will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 30.
Young died early Thursday, May 22 following a Wednesday night automobile collision on Lake Howard Drive, SW. She was a passenger in a car hit head on by another driver who crossed the center line. Her husband Bob was treated for injuries including a broken leg and released. Daughter Meghan was injured more seriously and she is expected to recover.
A memorial fund has been established at the Community Foundation of Greater Winter Haven in Marlene’s name. It will fund her favorite community causes. For more information phone 863.298.9020. All donations are tax deductible.
Photo courtesy of The Ledger, Paul Johnson
| See other entries filed in: City of Winter Haven, Memorials 
Posted by Bob Gernert on May 19, 2008 at 7:35 am
The number of acres of park land in Winter Haven — both developed and to be developed has grown from 347 acres in 2000 to 597 acres in 2008. A net gain of 250 acres in less than eight years. It is an impressive and aggressive program that has seen the city become one of two municipalities in the state (the other is Boca Raton) to set aside money annually to purchase lakefront property to preserve public access. The City completed a strategic plan for Winter Haven parks in 2007 and the following list is a progress report of where things stand.
For those who measure their community by its commitment to parks and leisure recreation opportunities, the City of Winter Haven scores high marks. The following review was presented to the City Planning Retreat on Wednesday, May 14.
Parks Both Planned and Proposed …
Lake Maude Natural Area
Acreage: 8.9± Amenities: Walking trail; playground; restrooms; picnic facilities; site furnishings; fishing area(s); parking
60% construction documents were reviewed by staff and SWFWMD
Comments (including addition of a restroom on the south end) are being addressed by consultant/design team
Lake Maude Recreation Area
Acreage: 26.07± Amenities: Tennis center; multi-generational center; shuffleboard pavilions; walking trails; playground; dog park; multi-purpose fields; restrooms/concessions; fishing area; parking; site furnishings; connectivity to Lake Maude Natural Area
Kick off meeting was held with consultant design team April 23
Initial work includes finalize full build-out concept, all surveying, cost estimating and phasing recommendation
Public input meetings are being planned
South Central Park
Acreage: 1.23± Amenities: Open space for events; band shell; spray-ground (potential); improved parking; site furnishings
Initial concept was created by staff and presented to Martin & Vargas for refining
Functional design phase needs to occur followed by construction/design documents
Pollard Road Park
Acreage: 109.6± Amenities (Proposed): Sports fields; natural areas; picnic facilities; parking; restrooms/concessions; site furnishings
Staff is finalizing the Request For Qualifications that will include the design work for Pollard Road; The RFQ will go out mid June
PCC Recreation Area
Acreage: 23.29± Amenities: Soccer fields (3); improved walking trail with fitness stations, restroom; stormwater retention; site furnishings
Staff met with PCC President Eileen Holden May 6 to present the plan; Dr. Holden will now present the plan to the Board of Trustees
Staff anticipate completing the engineering and design in-house
Downtown Trailhead Facility
Acreage: 6.89± Amenities: Playground; trail access; restrooms; concession; parking; site furnishings
Design team is finalizing the concept plan based on project budget.
Toddhunter Trailhead / Salvation Army Trailhead
Acreage: 3.96± / 0.82± Amenities: Parking; trail access; site furnishings
The FY 2008/09 Community Services Budget Proposal includes $135,000 for the design and construction of a parking area and access point at the former Toddhunter property located north of Avenue T; and $10,000 for the design of a similar facility south of Avenue T at the former Salvation Army property.
Lake Conine Nature Park
Acreage: 34± Amenities: Stormwater treatment; walking trails; picnic area; fishing pier; parking; site furnishings
This project is currently in design with construction anticipated to commence in early 2009
CR653 School Site
Acreage: Undetermined Amenities: Track; sports fields; potential natural area with trail; potential fishing area; parking
Staff met April 18 with School Board Member Margaret Lofton and Director of Planning Larry Helton to discuss a joint partnership for athletic and recreation facilities at the proposed middle school site on CR653
School Board representatives were very much interested in this opportunity and are coordinating a meeting with their architect and City staff
Lake Otis Access Area
Acreage: 0.50± Amenities: Boat ramp; parking; stormwater treatment
Staff’s intent is to convey the City’s property to the Lake Region Lakes Management District through a Cooperative Agreement
City and LRLMD will partner on the final design
City will pay for all tree line buffering with LRLMD installing
City will design and construct stormwater component
LRLMD responsible for perpetual maintenance and upkeep of all areas except stormwater
Inman Park
Acreage: 8.50± Amenities: Walking trail; multi-generational interaction area; parking; picnic area; site furnishings
Project is included in the 2008 FRDAP funding schedule; however, Legislature directed DEP staff to fund the entire list pro-rata based on available funds
Staff should get final numbers from DEP late summer 2008
Total Acreage: 223.76±
Small Scale Projects
Playground Refurbishments: WHRCC (2008/2009); Malcolm Park (2009); Girl Scout Park (2009)
Special Projects/Improvements: Rotary Park/WH Rotary Club Centennial Project
| See other entries filed in: City of Winter Haven, Parks and Green Space
Posted by Bob Gernert on May 16, 2008 at 2:06 pm
Fresh from her role in delivering a setback for Central Florida Commuter Rail, State Senator Paula Dockery has elected to inject herself into the State’s own DRI process via a letter she sent yesterday. In the letter to Thomas Pelham, Secretary of the Florida Department of Community Affairs, Dockery notes, “The recent events of the legislative session provide DCA with plenty of breathing room to conduct an exhaustive evaluation of the potential impacts of the project, without being subjected to pressure from those trying to hurry the process along.”
We can only hope Secretary Pelham will not be subjected to pressure from those trying to delay the project until it dies.
It is disappointing to note that while we invited Senator Dockery to join the Chamber’s fact-finding visit to Alliance, Texas in this March 13 post, she is not registered as a part of the group that will visit Alliance for a site tour on Monday, May 19. It will indeed provide perspectives based on an operating integrated logistics center that has produced more than 27,000 direct jobs and had a $31 billion economic impact since opening in 1994.
The Winter Haven ILC will provide needed jobs and economic stimulus for not just Winter Haven or Polk but Central Florida. It will play an important role in your business growth for years to come. You may want to drop a note of encouragement to:
Thomas G. Pelham, Secretary Florida Department of Community Affairs, 2555 Sumard Oak Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2100
You’ll find the complete text of Dockery’s letter here.
Fortunately, the DRI process she wants to slow is moving at a deliberate, established pace grounded in established policies of the DCA.
| See other entries filed in: CSX - Winter Haven, Commercial Developments, Economic Development, Perspective, Political Scene, Transportation
Posted by Bob Gernert on May 15, 2008 at 8:27 am
Satellite view of proposed master planning DRI
City Commissioners, staff, Chamber and Main Street representatives heard a preliminary overview of how redevelopment of the current Chain of Lakes Stadium/Southwest Complex property is likely to proceed. The City actually plans to trigger a “Development of Regional Impact” study (DRI) on a major portion (approximately 200 acres) of the community’s southwest quadrant bounded on the north by Avenue O, south by the Lake Lulu/Shipp canal, east by Park Lake/First Street South and west by Lake Shipp. Local developer Tony Binge presented the conceptual scenerio involving commercial, residential and enhanced public access to the Chain of Lakes. City staff underscored that the plan will provide for all amenities currently found on the Chain of Lakes property including a new facility for Theatre Winter Haven, a new aquatic center and other recreational amenities. Public access to Lake Lulu and the east shore of Lake Shipp would be greatly enhanced.
The master plan being contemplated will produce land use guidelines including more inter-city in fill development of a very high quality as well as an increased emphasis on Chain of Lakes access and appreciation, connectivity to walking trails and downtown.
The information was shared during the City’s annual planning retreat where those present outlined a vision for the city both five and ten years in the future. The areas of emphasis included Economic Development, Community Neighborhoods, Lakes, Leisure, Growth and Development and City Services. The City continues to use the results of the “Our Future By Design” visioning document as a significant benchmark for planning purposes. The document was developed in 1999-2000 by a broad cross section of Winter Haven residents (approximately 200 participated throughout the process).
| See other entries filed in: Chain of Lakes, City of Winter Haven, Commercial Developments, Cultural Arts, Dining, Economic Development, Parks and Green Space, Real Estate, Sports, Uncategorized
Posted by Bob Gernert on May 13, 2008 at 9:03 am
Look for a new Honda Automobile Dealership to open on Cypress Gardens Boulevard just west of Hill Nissan. Plans call for a 26,719 sq. ft. facility owned by Frank Rodriguez/Greenway Ford of Orlando.
The site is currently being cleared and construction will begin when plans are approved and building permits are finalized.
| See other entries filed in: Commercial Developments, Economic Development, Transportation
Posted by Bob Gernert on May 5, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Free Admission! Special Shows! Food and Merchandise Discounts!
Special Discounted Annual Pass for Chamber Members!
Tickets for the Chamber’s May Showcase, “Chamber Family Night” at Cypress Gardens are now available in our lobby while they last. (Limit six per family) The event will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on May 22.
Winter Haven Chamber members need only display a Chamber Advantage Card, business card or employee ID card from a Chamber member company. Join your friends at Cypress Gardens for an evening filled with family fun!
| See other entries filed in: Chamber Events, Cypress Gardens, Tourism
Posted by Bob Gernert on May 1, 2008 at 12:46 pm
The Florida Senate this morning again brought to the floor transportation legislation that includes amendments relevant to Central Florida Commuter Rail. Senators discussed the merits of stripping all amendments from the legislation and sending it back to the House or hearing the full bill — amendments and all. After discussion the legislation was tabled until possibly later today.
For a perspective on the current scenerio read this Orlando Sentinel report.
Plans for developing an intermodal rail terminal in Winter Haven grew out of the negotiations to bring commuter rail to a four county Central Florida area. Long term goals of area leaders would bring the commuter service on from Poinciana through Polk and into the Tampa Bay area. Creation of the first 61-mile section of commuter rail are seen by many as key to future expansion of the service.
Those monitoring the proceedings feel the final decision will come Friday in the closing deliberations of the session.
| See other entries filed in: CSX - Winter Haven, Economic Development, Perspective, Political Scene, Transportation
Posted by Bob Gernert on April 30, 2008 at 9:38 pm
In a stunning move late Wednesday, Senate Transportation Committee Chair, Carey Baker, R, Eustis, initiated a “strike all amendments” action that effectively shut down consideration of the question of liability protection for CSX Transportation on 61 miles of tracks Florida Department of Transportation intends to purchase for commuter rail in Central Florida. Senate Majority Leader, Daniel Webster, R, Winter Park (a strong advocate of the project) is quoted as saying, “It would have been a tough vote.” You can read the Orlando Sentinel report here.
Winter Haven officials including Mayor Nat Birdsong are in Tallahassee in support of the commuter rail project and future expansion through Polk to the Tampa Bay area. CSX officials have repeatedly stated that work will move forward on the Winter Haven integrated logistics center regardless of the outcome of the liability question.
While two days remain in the current legislative session, prospects have dimmed for resolution of the liability question.
| See other entries filed in: CSX - Winter Haven, Economic Development, Political Scene, Transportation
Posted by Bob Gernert on April 18, 2008 at 9:40 am
Free Admission! Special Shows! Food and Merchandise Discounts!
Special Discounted Annual Pass for Chamber Members!
The Chamber’s May Networking Showcase morphs into “Family Night” fun as Cypress Gardens Adventure Park rolls out an evening of special shows, breathtaking flowers and food and merchandise discounts for Chamber members and their immediate families. The Gardens is hosting members and families from the Winter Haven, Haines City, Lake Wales, Auburndale and Lake Alfred Chambers of Commerce.
Cypress Gardens Adventure Park
Chamber “Family Night” Fun
4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Special 6 p.m. Ski Show
Special All New Animal Encounter Show
Botanical Gardens open until 6 p.m.
More than 40 rides to thrill!
Special “Family Night” Admission Tickets* available May 1 in Chamber Lobby while they last.
To obtain tickets:
Present your Chamber Advantage Card or your business card/or employee identification card with Chamber member company at Lobby Desk. You may only pick up tickets for your immediate family (parents and children). The Chamber reserves the right to limit quantities.
| See other entries filed in: Chamber Events, Cypress Gardens, Parks and Green Space
Posted by Bob Gernert on April 17, 2008 at 8:49 am
The Winter Haven Chamber has two great events scheduled for next week. You can RSVP at the links provided below.
FREE Chain of Lakes Breakfast Forum!
Tuesday, April 22, start your day with a free breakfast in one of Winter Haven’s most beautiful settings … at the Lake Hartridge Nature Park (pictured R at sunrise). Sponsored by Killebrew, Inc. and presented by Mike Britt and Rashelle Selser of the City’s Department of Natural Resources the breakfast is complimentary to the first 100 people who RSVP. Continental Breakfast will be served starting at 7:30 a.m. in the main picnic pavilion. The program will outline the our water resources and the City’s plans for a new aquatic and nature center to be built at the park. It’s one more step in the City’s quest to become a green community. Learn also how the nature park serves as a stormwater filtration marsh for Lake Hartridge. The program is open to Chamber members and the General Public. Free with your RSVP here.
Holiday Inn Hosts April 24 Showcase!
Join your friends at Winter Haven’s newest hotel … The Holiday Inn (200 Cypress Gardens Boulevard). Thursday, April 24 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. you can tour the beautiful new facility, impressive lobby (pictured below), restaurant and more. Enjoy great food, too! Shake the hand of the “Mystery Guest” and win $25. If you are this month’s “Name Dropper” chosen at random from our database you will win $200 — but you have to be present. Free to Chamber members and a guest with your RSVP here.
| See other entries filed in: Chain of Lakes, Chamber Events, Commercial Developments, Economic Development, Parks and Green Space
Next Posts
Previous Posts
The Official Website of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce
